Label Applicator With Moveable Contact Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional labeling devices are not well-suited for applying labels to articles or containers of different sizes and shapes, requiring multiple devices and increasing costs and application time.
Innovation Solution
A labeling system that uses a moveable contact member and rollers to accommodate various shapes and sizes, with a method involving positioning an article between rollers and a moveable contact member, rotating the rollers to apply a label with a pressure-sensitive adhesive, and using sensors for control and efficient label delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple labeling devices are used to label different size articles, then labeling capability for various sizes is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The labeling device is designed with a moveable contact member that can be positioned at different locations to accommodate articles of various sizes and shapes. This single device performs multiple labeling functions that would otherwise require separate dedicated devices, achieving versatility without increasing device count.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact member is made moveable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment of the labeling zone geometry. This enables the same physical device to adapt its configuration for different article types, resolving the contradiction between versatility and device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple labeling devices are used for different article sizes, then labeling accuracy for specific sizes is improved, but productivity decreases due to constant switching
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable contact member allows rapid reconfiguration of the labeling zone for different article sizes without requiring physical device switching. This maintains labeling accuracy through proper contact geometry while significantly improving productivity by eliminating setup time between different article types.
3Device complexity
If a fixed contact member is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different article shapes and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The contact member is designed to be moveable along a defined path, adding minimal complexity to the device structure while enabling significant adaptability. The moveable component allows the same simple device framework to accommodate various article geometries without requiring complex mechanisms.
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 provides flexibility in labeling different shapes and sizes efficiently, reducing costs and application time by allowing a single device to handle multiple sizes and shapes, and ensuring accurate and rapid label application.
Implementation Method 1
The label has a first side with printed matter thereon and a second side configured for attachment to a surface of the article
Data Source
AI summary
A method for positioning an article within a label applicator and securing the article between a first roller, a second roller, and a moveable contact member includes securing the article by moving the moveable contact member from a first position in which the moveable contact member is not in contact with the article to a second position in which the moveable contact member is in contact with the article. A label is received for application to the article by delivering the label between the article and at least one of the first roller, second roller, and the moveable contact member.