Label Application Machine with Adjustable Spray Nozzles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for applying labels to containers in the tobacco industry are not versatile and require complex adjustments and frequent stoppages for cleaning, leading to reduced output due to adhesive fouling and misapplication.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a conveying device, gumming device, and feed assembly that includes vertically and horizontally oriented spray nozzles for precise adhesive application, a transfer unit with oscillating gripping assemblies, and a folding mechanism for label application, allowing for easy adjustment and rapid cleaning to minimize downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a gumming device with spray nozzles is used to apply adhesive to packets, then label application is achieved, but adhesive fouling occurs on machine components and packets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies adhesive locally only at the specific area where the label will be positioned, rather than spraying broadly. The gumming device targets the adhesive application to the precise location on the packet surface, reducing waste and fouling while ensuring proper label adhesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of adhesive overspray into a benefit by using controlled adhesive application that prevents fouling. The system design ensures adhesive is applied only where needed, turning what could be a fouling problem into a precise application solution.
2Manufacturing precision
If the machine is designed for specific container sizes, then adhesive application is consistent, but versatility is reduced and frequent adjustments are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable and reconfigurable components that can be dynamically modified to accommodate different container sizes. The gumming device and feed mechanism can be adjusted in position and configuration, allowing the machine to adapt to various packet dimensions while maintaining consistent adhesive application quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine is designed with universal capabilities to handle multiple container types and sizes through adjustable fixtures and reconfigurable feed mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows the same machine to process different packet dimensions without requiring complete redesign, maintaining precision across variations.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex adjustments are made for different container types, then label application accuracy is maintained, but machine stoppages increase and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary setup and pre-positioning mechanisms that allow for quick changes between container types. Adjustments are pre-configured or can be made rapidly, minimizing the time the machine needs to be stopped for reconfiguration while maintaining label application accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent may employ disposable or easily replaceable components such as adhesive applicator tips or positioning fixtures that can be quickly changed without complex adjustment procedures. This reduces setup time and maintains precision without requiring lengthy machine stoppages for recalibration.
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 machine ensures precise and efficient label application with reduced adhesive fouling, enabling faster production and easier adjustments between different container sizes and types, thereby increasing output and reducing labor and downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a suction head (34, 38) for engaging a label (2) by suction at each operating cycle
Implementation Method 2
a folding member (39) for folding a portion (40) of a relative label (2) onto the lateral wall (8) of respective packet (3) at each operating cycle
Implementation Method 3
two spray nozzles (16, 18), which are oriented substantially vertically downwards and substantially horizontally, respectively, and each emit two jets of adhesive onto wall (6) and one of lateral walls (8) of each packet (3)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A machine for applying inland revenue stamps (2) to packets (3) of cigarettes, the machine having a conveying device (10) for feeding the packets (3) along a given path (P1) through an application station (11); and a feed device (24) for feeding the stamps (2) to the application station (11), and applying each stamp (2) to a given portion of a respective packet (3); the feed device (24) being movable crosswise to the travelling direction (A) to adjust the given portion of the packet (3) to which the stamp (2) is applied, and comprising a gumming device (13) located along the given path (P1), upstread from the application station (11), to apply adhesive to the given portion of the container (3)