Labelling Device Handling System Positioning for Label Transfer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing labeling devices are complex due to the need for sophisticated suction systems to handle labels with adhesive surfaces, which complicates the process of attaching weight-based information labels to products during transportation.

Innovation Solution

A labeling device and method that uses a handling system to directly move products from a pickup position to label removal positions adjacent to printers, allowing labels to be transferred without separate manipulation, enabling simultaneous or sequential application of multiple labels without sticking to the handling system, and allowing for orientation adjustments for efficient label placement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a label manipulation system with suction devices is used to handle labels, then labels can be removed from the label outlet and transported to the product, but the device complexity increases due to the need for sophisticated suction systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel handling capabilityVSAvoidsuction system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the label manipulation function from the handling system by positioning the label outlet directly at the product location. The label is applied directly from the outlet to the product without being handled by the system, eliminating the need for suction devices and complex manipulation mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The label outlet itself performs the label application function by positioning the label directly onto the product. The system uses the product's own movement and positioning to facilitate label application, rather than requiring the handling system to actively manipulate the label.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If labels are handled and transported by the handling system, then labels can be applied to products, but the handling system becomes more complex and labels may stick to the handling system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel application capabilityVSAvoidhandling system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The label transport function is extracted from the handling system. The label moves directly from the outlet to the product without being held or transported by the handling system components, eliminating the risk of labels sticking to the system and reducing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces the concept of a label outlet as an intermediary component that bridges the printer and the product. This intermediary handles the label transfer function, keeping the main handling system simple while enabling label application capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If the handling system moves products to label removal positions, then labels can be applied to products, but the overall system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel application processVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the label application position with the product handling position. The label outlet is positioned at the same location where the product is held, combining what would traditionally be separate functions into a single integrated operation, thereby reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The handling system performs its primary function of moving and positioning products, while the label outlet provides the additional function of label application at the same position. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate label manipulation systems.

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

Data Source

PatentEP3030492B1Labelling device, labelling system and method for providing a product with a label
Publication Date: 2017.11.29 ESPERA WERKE GMBH
  • EP3030492B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2a
  • EP3030492B1 patent drawingFigure 2b~3

AI summary

The invention relates to a labelling device (1), in particular a pricing device, for providing a product (2) with a label (3), having at least one set of weighing scales (4) for weighing the product (2), having at least one handling system (5) for moving the product (2), and having at least one printer (6) for printing and dispensing labels (3), the printer having a label outlet (6.1). In order to reduce the complexity, the invention proposes that it be possible for the handling system (5) to be moved from a product-receiving position (I), in which the product (2) can be received by the handling system (5), to a first label-removal position (II), which is located adjacent to the label outlet (6.1) of the printer (6) and in which a first label (3) can be transferred to the product (2). The invention also relates to a labelling system (11) having a plurality of such labelling devices (1), and to a method for providing a product (2) with a label (3).