Labelling Machine Carousel Speed Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labelling machines face challenges in matching variable speed operative groups with constant speed conveying lines, particularly in roll-fed labelling machines, leading to inefficiencies and waste due to non-continuous flow and the need for bufferless operation, which results in interruptions and label wastage when articles are missing from the line.
Innovation Solution
A labelling machine with a carousel and two labelling groups that can switch between operative and rest configurations, using a gap creation mechanism and control unit to manage label transfer and reel splicing, allowing for continuous operation and efficient label application without interrupting the production line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the conveying line operates at constant speed without buffers, then productivity is improved, but the operative groups must interrupt operation when articles are missing, causing loss of time and reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the operative groups' speed variable rather than constant. The control unit dynamically adjusts the speed of operative groups to match the actual flow of articles on the conveying line, allowing them to operate continuously without interruption even when articles are missing, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through sensors that detect the presence or absence of articles on the conveying line. This information is fed back to the control unit, which then adjusts the speed of operative groups accordingly, enabling continuous operation without interruption and maintaining both high productivity and reliability
2Productivity
If the operative groups accelerate from slow to high speed during starting up, then productivity is improved, but the operative groups experience wear and require interruption for maintenance, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing variable speed control that allows operative groups to accelerate gradually from slow to high speed during startup, rather than sudden acceleration. This dynamic speed adjustment reduces mechanical stress and wear while maintaining high productivity, and allows for maintenance interruptions without stopping the entire conveying line
3Reliability
If buffers are introduced between conveyors to allow speed variation, then reliability is improved, but the conveying line complexity increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the speed variation function from the physical buffer structures and transfers it to the operative groups themselves through variable speed control. This eliminates the need for additional buffer mechanisms and complex conveying line structures, maintaining simplicity while achieving reliable speed matching and continuous operation
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for carrying out at least one operation onto a first article and a second article is disclosed. The machine comprises feeding means for advancing a succession of the first article and the second article along a path and with a first speed; a first operative group, which comprises a first tool configured for carrying out operation onto the first article and which can be operated with a second speed associated to the first speed; gap creating means selectively controllable to create a first gap, which is arranged inside succession and is bounded between the first article and the second article; and a second operative group, which comprises a second tool configured for carrying out operation onto the second article and which can be operated at the second speed.