Handheld Tape Dispenser Automates Node Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tape dispensers require manual input for printing and applying tape, making the process time-consuming, especially in environments where large numbers of assets need labeling.
Innovation Solution
A handheld tape dispenser with a processor, wireless interface, and mechanical components that automatically dispense adhesive tape nodes of uniform length, allowing for real-time association with assets and integration with a wireless tracking system, and enabling printing of information on the tape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual input and manual application process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (tape dispensing, printing, cutting, and wireless node activation) into a single handheld dispenser device. The printing unit, cutting mechanism, and wireless interface are integrated within the same device housing, allowing all operations to be performed sequentially without transferring between tools, thereby significantly improving installation productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser is designed as a multi-functional device that can dispense tape, print information on the tape, cut the tape to length, and activate wireless tracking nodes all through a single device. This universal functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and manual operations, directly addressing the productivity bottleneck.
2Loss of time
If manual tape application process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser performs multiple functions automatically with minimal user intervention. The printing unit automatically prints on the dispensed tape, the cutting mechanism automatically cuts to the required length, and the wireless interface automatically activates the node. This self-service capability dramatically reduces the time required for each tape application while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
3Productivity
If automated dispensing with printing and cutting is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the printing unit, cutting mechanism, and wireless interface are all contained within the housing of the handheld dispenser. The tape roll is nested within the dispenser, and the functional components are arranged in a compact, space-efficient manner that integrates multiple subsystems into a single portable device, managing complexity through hierarchical organization.
4Productivity
If real-time association and wireless transmission is implemented, then productivity increases, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless transmission is configured to occur periodically or at specific intervals rather than continuously. The processor can be programmed to transmit association data at predetermined times or when specific conditions are met, reducing overall power consumption while still achieving real-time tracking capabilities. This periodic communication mode balances productivity requirements with energy conservation.
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld tape dispenser is configured to store a roll of tape within a frame, the roll of tape comprising a plurality of segments of tape each corresponding to a tape node and comprising one or more electronic components. The handheld tape dispenser drives mechanical components of the handheld tape dispenser to draw tape along a tape feed path, resulting in a segment of tape being removed from the roll of tape for deployment. The handheld tape dispenser determines a unique identifier of a tape node corresponding to the removed segment of tape, associates the unique identifier of the tape node with an asset corresponding to the tape node, and stores the association in a local memory. In real-time or at a later time, the handheld tape dispenser transmits the association to a wireless tracking system.