Labeling Machine Carousel Radial Adjustment Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling machines face ergonomic and space-related challenges due to complex and inefficient adjustment paths for labeling units, requiring large machine areas and limiting access, especially near infeed starwheels.
Innovation Solution
A labeling machine with a labeling carousel and adjustable labeling units mounted on carriages with guide elements forming specific adjustment paths, allowing radial adjustment for labeling positions and lateral deviation for ergonomic and space-saving setup, using curved and straight guide rails with support rollers and locking mechanisms for enhanced accessibility and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If labeling units are positioned radially on the labeling carousel, then radial adjustment for container diameter adaptation is achieved, but access to labeling units is difficult and large machine area is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a purely radial adjustment path to a composite path that includes both radial and tangential components. The carriage moves along a predetermined path that deviates from the radial line connecting the carousel center to the labeling unit center. This allows operators to access labeling units from the outer side of the machine rather than requiring direct radial access, thereby improving ergonomics while maintaining radial positioning capability for different container diameters
2Adaptability or versatility
If labeling units are positioned radially on the labeling carousel, then radial adjustment for container diameter adaptation is achieved, but large machine area is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing a tangential component to the adjustment path, the patent enables more efficient use of machine space. The carriage can achieve the necessary radial positioning for different container sizes while following a path that optimizes the angular footprint of the labeling units on the carousel, reducing the overall machine area required
3Ease of operation
If minimum distance from infeed starwheels is maintained, then access to labeling units is enabled, but machine angular area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the adjustment path from purely radial to a composite path with tangential deviation. This allows the carriage to access labeling units without requiring excessive angular distance from infeed starwheels, optimizing both operator access and the compact angular arrangement of machine components
Data Source
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AI summary
Describes a labeling machine, in particular for cold glue, comprising: a labeling carousel; at least one labeling unit having an undercarriage and a slide base which can be movably mounted on the undercarriage and is used for radial alignment of the labeling unit relative to the labeling carousel. According to the invention, an adjustment path is determined by guide elements which are arranged on the slide base and the undercarriage and are used for the labeling unit, the adjustment path is provided with an inner adjustment portion facing the labeling carousel and provided with a radial extension trend and an outer adjustment portion which departs from the labeling unit and deviates from the radial extension trend along the lateral direction and is provided with a particular curved extension trend. Thus, the labeling unit can move between a labeling position and a device position in ergonomic and space-saving manner.