Automated Hard Tag Feeding and Pin Insertion for Retail Items
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for applying EAS security tags to items are labor-intensive, involving manual handling of tags and retaining pins, which increases costs, safety concerns, and inventory complexity.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automated or automated tag applicator system that uses a tag feeder, vibratory feeder, index rotary table, and securement mechanism driver to automatically insert tags into items, reducing manual handling and enabling efficient inventory management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling of tags and retaining pins is used, then flexibility and simplicity are maintained, but labor intensity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tag applicator is designed to be manually operated by the user, who loads tags into the magazine and triggers the application process. The device performs the complex insertion and securing operations automatically once activated, combining manual control with automated execution to maintain simplicity while improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The tag applicator acts as an intermediary device between the user and the tagging process. It accepts simple manual input (loading tags and pressing a button) and transforms it into complex automated actions (inserting retaining pins, securing tags), thereby improving productivity without sacrificing ease of operation
2Productivity
If automated tag insertion is implemented, then labor costs are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tag applicator is divided into distinct functional modules: a magazine for storing multiple tags, a delivery mechanism for individual tag dispensing, a securing mechanism for attaching tags to items, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple tags are pre-loaded into the magazine in advance, and the device is designed to automatically retrieve and position tags as needed during the application process. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual tag handling during operation, achieving automation while keeping the interface simple
3Productivity
If multiple tags are stored in a magazine, then continuous operation is enabled, but inventory management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors and indicators that provide feedback on the number of tags remaining in the magazine. This feedback mechanism allows users to monitor tag inventory levels easily and reload the magazine before it becomes empty, enabling continuous operation without complex inventory management systems
4Device complexity
If manual tag application is used, then equipment costs are lower, but safety concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tag applicator performs the potentially hazardous operations of inserting retaining pins and securing tags automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually handle sharp pins or apply force to items. The device protects users from safety risks while maintaining relatively simple equipment through straightforward mechanical design
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system automates tag application, reduces labor costs, minimizes waste, and enhances inventory tracking and management through RFID-enabled tags, ensuring accurate counts and efficient shipping.
Implementation Method 1
vibratory feeder
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Systems and methods for coupling a tag (110) to an item. The methods comprise: dispensing the tag from a tag feeder (102) of a tag applicator (100); performing first operations by the tag applicator to mechanically move the tag into a nest of the tag applicator; determining if a given criteria is met based on feedback information received from at least one of a user of the tag applicator and a sensor provided with the tag applicator; and performing second operations by the tag applicator to couple the tag to the item, when a determination is made that the given criteria is met.