Label Application Device Using Intersecting Laser Fans
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing label application devices require multiple templates and manual changes, which are time-consuming and prone to errors, especially when labeling a variety of components without mechanical stops or templates.
Innovation Solution
A device equipped with a linearly movable punch and a positioning aid using at least two line lasers that emit fans of light parallel to the punch's displacement direction, allowing for correct positioning of the workpiece without mechanical stops or templates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple exchangeable templates are used for different workpieces, then positioning accuracy for various components is improved, but device complexity and time loss due to manual template changing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical template system with an optical projection system using a laser pointer. The laser projects the outline of the label directly onto the workpiece, eliminating the need for physical templates. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining positioning accuracy through optical guidance while reducing device complexity by removing the template library and manual changing mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy of the label outline using laser projection. Instead of using physical templates that are copies of label positions, the system projects a light-based copy of the label contour directly onto the workpiece surface. This copying approach eliminates the need for multiple physical templates while preserving positioning accuracy
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple exchangeable templates are used for different workpieces, then positioning accuracy for various components is improved, but loss of time due to manual template changing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical template changing process with an automated optical projection system. The laser pointer, mounted on the movable punch, automatically projects the label outline onto any workpiece without requiring manual template selection or installation. This eliminates time loss while maintaining positioning accuracy through the optical guidance system
Solution Approach 2:
The laser outline is projected in advance onto the workpiece surface before the actual labeling operation. This preliminary projection of the label position allows the operator to verify correct positioning before applying the label, eliminating the need for time-consuming template changes while ensuring positioning accuracy
3Stability of the object's composition
If mechanical stops are used for workpiece positioning, then positioning stability is improved, but adaptability to different workpiece types decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical stops with an optical projection system that provides positioning guidance without physical constraints. The laser outline shows the exact label position on any workpiece type without requiring mechanical stops to be adjusted or changed. This maintains positioning stability through visual guidance while achieving full adaptability to different workpiece geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The laser projection system serves as a universal positioning aid that works with all workpiece types. Unlike mechanical stops that must be reconfigured for different components, the laser system automatically adapts by projecting the label outline onto any surface, providing both stability and universality in a single system
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 device enables precise and efficient labeling of various components by projecting the label's outline onto the workpiece, independent of the workpiece's height, thus eliminating the need for multiple templates and manual changes.
Implementation Method 1
at least two line lasers (11) oriented and arranged such that each one emits a fan of light (13)
Data Source
AI summary
A device for applying labels to a workpiece includes a linearly movable punch, by which a label which has been taken up can be applied to a workpiece, and a positioning aid, which assists correct positioning of the workpiece. The positioning aid has at least two line lasers which are oriented and arranged such that each one emits a fan of light in a plane which runs parallel to a displacement direction of the punch, and the two fans of light intersect.