Label Applicator Suction Claw Mechanism for Reliable Peeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing label peeling devices struggle to efficiently and reliably peel labels from sheets without damaging the labels or requiring complex mechanisms, especially when dealing with labels of different shapes and sizes.

Innovation Solution

A label applicator with a suction unit, a claw member having a sharp tip, and a moving mechanism that allows the suction pad to lock in place relative to the claw member, enabling the peeling of labels by moving the frame upward after the label is sandwiched between the tip and the suction pad.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a suction pad is used to hold the label, then the label can be reliably gripped, but additional holding devices are required increasing device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel gripping reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suction pad and claw member are merged into a single integrated unit. The suction pad is disposed directly above the claw member tip, combining the gripping function of the claw with the holding function of the suction pad into one component assembly, eliminating the need for separate holding devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated suction pad-claw member assembly performs multiple functions: the claw member penetrates and positions the label, while the suction pad simultaneously grips and holds the label. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If the suction pad and claw member are fixed relative to each other, then the structure is simpler, but the suction pad cannot be precisely positioned on the label end

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidpositioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The moving mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the suction pad position relative to the claw member. The suction pad can move in the up-down direction to precisely position itself on the label end, and the lock device freezes this position once achieved, combining dynamic positioning with static precision holding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The moving mechanism allows the suction pad to preliminarily position itself on the label end before the lock device engages. This preliminary action ensures precise positioning is achieved before the relative movement is locked, maintaining both precision and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex mechanisms are used to peel labels, then labels of different shapes and sizes can be handled, but the device becomes more complex and less efficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different label shapes and sizesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated suction pad-claw member assembly serves as a universal labeling tool that can handle labels of different shapes and sizes. The suction pad's ability to conform to various label surfaces combined with the claw member's positioning capability creates a versatile system without requiring complex mechanisms for each label type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This solution allows for smooth and reliable peeling of labels from sheets, eliminating the need for additional holding devices and enabling efficient application of labels of various shapes without unnecessary robot movement, thus enhancing the efficiency of label application.

Implementation Method 1

a suction unit that is supported by the frame and has a suction pad

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS10717559B2Label applicator with label peeling function, robot, and label peeling method
Publication Date: 2020.07.21 FANUC LTD
  • US10717559B2 patent drawing
  • US10717559B2 patent drawing
  • US10717559B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A label applicator with a label peeling function includes a frame supported by a support machine, a suction unit that is supported by the frame and has a suction pad, a claw member having a sharp tip that is disposed under the suction pad, a moving mechanism that is supported by the frame, and supports the claw member so as to be movable in an up-down direction relative to the suction pad, and a lock device that locks movement of the claw member in the up-down direction relative to the suction pad, in a state where the suction pad is placed on top of and in contact with an end of a label lying on the tip of the claw member.