Labeling Machine Stationary Blade Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling machines face challenges in setting up and maintaining fine tolerances, require complex operations to change label formats, and have high costs due to intricate systems for varying label lengths and adhesive application.
Innovation Solution
A labeling machine with a cutting device featuring a supporting roller and blades, where the tape is redirected by aspiration or air jets to be cut by stationary blades, allowing for variable label lengths without moving the blades, and accommodating both pre-glued and adhesive labels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rotating cutting roller with blades is used to cut the tape, then individual labels can be obtained, but very fine tolerances must be maintained for correct operation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the blade with the tape (conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by keeping the blade stationary and rotating the tape on a support roller. This inversion eliminates the need for precise alignment between rotating blade and tape, significantly reducing setup complexity while maintaining cutting precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a support roller as an intermediary element between the stationary blade and the tape. The support roller rotates the tape and positions it against the stationary blade, mediating the interaction and eliminating the need for complex alignment mechanisms while ensuring precise cutting
2Adaptability or versatility
If blades are arranged on a cutting roller at fixed angular distances, then labels of specific lengths can be produced, but the pitch cannot be varied without complex operations to substitute elements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the cutting system dynamic by allowing selective positioning of the stationary blade at different angular positions relative to the rotating support roller. This dynamic adjustment capability enables variable label lengths without substituting physical elements, achieving format flexibility with simple operational changes
Solution Approach 2:
The support roller is divided into multiple segments or zones, each capable of being selectively positioned against the stationary blade to produce different label lengths. This segmentation allows flexible label format changes by simply activating different segments rather than replacing entire components
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating cutting counter-roller with blades is added adjacent to the cutting roller, then the pitch of cutting can be varied by changing rotation speeds, but very fine tolerances are still required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the complex mechanical synchronization system (two rotating rollers with precise speed ratios) with a simpler system where a stationary blade cuts tape on a rotating support roller. The pitch is varied by changing the rotational speed of the support roller alone, eliminating the need for precise mechanical synchronization and reducing operational tolerance requirements
4Adaptability or versatility
If blades are moved by a pneumatic system with rotating guillotine motion, then labels of desired length can be obtained, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex pneumatic actuation system and rotating guillotine motion mechanism. Instead, it uses a simple stationary blade that cuts tape as it passes on the rotating support roller, achieving label length control through rotational speed variation alone, thereby dramatically reducing system complexity and cost
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 machine achieves high productivity with simple construction, low costs, and versatility in label formats, enabling simultaneous cutting and transfer of labels with reduced blade exposure to wear and deformation.
Implementation Method 1
a redirection means (4) for redirecting a portion (2a) of the tape (2) from its advancement path toward the blade (3)
Data Source
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AI summary
A labeling machine that comprises means for entraining a tape (2) along an advancement path with respect to a cutting device that has at least one blade (3) adapted to cut the tape (2) in order to obtain labels, the blade (3) being arranged laterally spaced apart with respect to the advancement path of the tape (2), means (4) for redirecting at least one portion (2a) of the tape (2) from the advancement path being also provided which are adapted to move such portion (2a) with respect to the advancement path of the tape (2) in the direction of the blade (3) in order to allow the blade (3) to cut the tape (2) at the aforementioned portion (2a).