Multi-Layer Label Assembly with Separable RFID Carrier

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional label manufacturing methods often result in single-functional labels, making it difficult to create multi-layer stacks with different text information or RFID devices, which can interfere with each other's functionality, and require more expensive and complex production processes.

Innovation Solution

A multiple part peel and reseal label stack assembly with a base layer and informational layers that can be permanently or removably bound, allowing for the inclusion of RFID devices and easy separation of layers, using a generic base roll for multiple production runs to reduce costs and complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple RFID devices are included in a label stack, then the ability to track multiple components or verify label presence is improved, but the RFID devices interfere with each other and de-tune, worsening functionality

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRFID device functionalityVSAvoidRFID device interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the RFID device from the multi-layer label stack and places it on a separate carrier sheet that remains attached to the base layer. This separation prevents the RFID device from interfering with multiple label layers while still allowing it to function. The RFID device is effectively removed from the problematic multi-layer configuration and placed in a location where it cannot de-tune other devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a carrier sheet as an intermediary element between the base layer and the label layers. This carrier sheet serves as a mediating structure that holds the RFID device at a distance from the label stacks, preventing direct interference while still allowing the RFID device to be associated with the label assembly. The carrier sheet acts as a buffer that eliminates the harmful electromagnetic interaction between multiple RFID devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple label layers are stacked to provide different text information, then the versatility and information capacity are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel information capacityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple label layers into a single integrated label stack assembly that is applied to the base layer as one unit. Rather than manufacturing and applying separate labels for different information, the patent combines them into a single multi-layer structure that can be produced more efficiently. This merging reduces the number of separate manufacturing operations and simplifies the overall process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal label stack assembly structure that can accommodate multiple types of information layers (different languages, component identifiers, etc.) within a single standardized format. This multi-functional design allows the same basic structure to serve multiple purposes and information needs, reducing the need for specialized manufacturing processes for different label types.

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

3Ease of operation

If individual labels are die cut and separated from the waste matrix, then the labels can be readily peeled off the release liner, but the labels have only a single functional layer limiting information capacity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel peeling easeVSAvoidlabel functional layers
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested structure where multiple label layers are stacked one on top of another, with each layer containing different information. The layers are nested within the same adhesive boundary, allowing them to be applied together while maintaining the ability to peel them separately. This nesting approach enables multiple functional layers within a single label assembly that retains ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the label assembly into multiple separable layers that can be individually removed from the stack. Each layer is die-cut along the same adhesive boundary, allowing users to peel off only the layers they need while leaving others attached. This segmentation maintains the ease of peeling operation while providing multiple functional information layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 the creation of cost-effective, multi-functional labels with multiple layers that can be easily separated and reused, reducing production complexity and waste, while maintaining the functionality of RFID devices without interference.

Implementation Method 1

a base layer which may have an adhesive disposed over all or substantially all of a surface area of the label, and which may allow the base layer to be affixed to an article

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

the surfaces of the informational layers may be configured to repeatedly peel apart and reseal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive failure: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS11842655B2Label assembly
Publication Date: 2023.12.12 AVERY DENNISON RETAIL INFORMATION SERVICES LLC
  • US11842655B2 patent drawing
  • US11842655B2 patent drawing
  • US11842655B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A label stack assembly and method and system for preparing the label stack assembly is disclosed herein. The label stack assembly may be applied to a product in order to provide care instructions in multiple different languages. Individual pages of the label stack assembly may have separate content, such as translations of care instructions into multiple languages, and may be marked by tabs of various shapes, sizes, or styles that may protrude from an edge of the label stack assembly. Tabs may be marked with country codes indicating the translations or other information. The pages of the label stack assembly may be printed on both a front and a back side, such as may be desired, in order to minimize the number of pages used while maximizing the number of care instruction translations or other content pages.