Label Folding Apparatus with Moveable Carriage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current labeling methods for applying packing list and shipping labels to sealed cartons are inefficient, requiring precise timing, multiple printers and applicators, and significant space, and often result in mismatches between labels.
Innovation Solution
A label folding apparatus with a label deflector and folding device mounted on a moveable carriage, which displaces and folds labels to align and apply them automatically, using a vacuum-held label holding assembly and a mechanism to apply the labels to a substrate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If two separate label applicators are used to apply packing list and shipping labels in sequence, then both labels can be applied to the carton, but the device complexity increases and significant floor space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate label applicators into a single integrated label applicator that can apply both the packing list label and the shipping label in sequence. This merging reduces device complexity and floor space requirements while maintaining the capability to apply both labels, directly resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single label applicator is designed with multi-functionality to perform both packing list label application and shipping label application tasks. This universal device can handle different label types and application requirements, eliminating the need for separate specialized applicators and reducing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If two separate label applicators are used to apply packing list and shipping labels, then both labels can be applied, but the floor space requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By merging two separate label applicators into one integrated unit, the patent significantly reduces the floor space required for the labeling operation. The combined applicator maintains both labeling functions in a compact configuration, directly addressing the space efficiency concern while preserving productivity.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise timing is required between packing list application and shipping label application, then proper alignment can be achieved, but the ease of operation decreases and timing synchronization becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary positioning mechanisms that pre-align the packing list label and shipping label before the actual application process. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment is achieved automatically without requiring complex real-time timing synchronization, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated label applicator incorporates self-aligning features and automatic positioning mechanisms that enable the system to achieve proper label alignment autonomously. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external timing synchronization, making the operation simpler while maintaining precise label placement.
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
Enables efficient, automatic printing and application of both labels without the need for precise timing or multiple machines, reducing space requirements and minimizing mismatches, thus improving the efficiency of high-volume shipping labeling.
Implementation Method 1
the label is held against the label holding assembly by a vacuum force acting through at least one aperture in a first surface of the label holding assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A label folding apparatus and methods for its use are disclosed. Such a label folding apparatus comprises a label folding assembly and a label holding assembly, and may be used to fold a foldable label placed onto the label holding assembly.