Labelling Machine Feature Tracking for Embossing Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling machines lack an efficient method to align containers with embossing features before labeling and subsequently check the correct alignment of labels post-labeling without requiring additional embossing position detection, which complicates the label position check process.
Innovation Solution
The method involves tracking feature coordinates of container design features from the first inspection unit to the second inspection unit using cameras, allowing for accurate alignment and label position checking without additional embossing position detection, simplifying the label position check process and eliminating the need for specific lighting for embossing recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a multi-stage alignment system with multiple cameras is used to detect embossing position, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first inspection unit performs preliminary detection of the embossing position on the container before the labeling process. The detected position information is stored and used by the labeling unit to align the label correctly, eliminating the need for multiple alignment stages downstream.
Solution Approach 2:
A central control unit acts as an intermediary that receives position information from the first inspection unit and transmits it to the labeling unit and second inspection unit. This mediator enables information sharing across different units, allowing the system to achieve high precision with fewer detection points.
2Measurement precision
If additional embossing position detection is performed in the label position check, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The embossing position is detected preliminarily by the first inspection unit before labeling. This pre-detected position information is stored and reused during the label position check by the second inspection unit, eliminating the need for additional embossing detection and simplifying the label position check system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the first inspection unit's embossing position detection to inform the labeling unit's alignment and the second inspection unit's label position verification. This feedback mechanism allows all units to operate with consistent position information without requiring redundant detection systems.
3Reliability
If specific lighting is used for embossing recognition, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The embossing position is detected preliminarily by the first inspection unit using appropriate lighting conditions. The detected position information is then reused by subsequent units, eliminating the need for additional specialized lighting systems in the labeling and inspection units.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system in the first inspection unit serves multiple functions: it enables embossing detection for alignment purposes and provides reference information for subsequent label position verification. This multi-functional approach reduces the need for separate specialized lighting systems in other units.
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
This approach ensures accurate label alignment and position verification post-labeling, reducing the complexity of the label position check and enabling standard lighting methods to be used, thereby enhancing the efficiency and standardization of the labeling process.
Implementation Method 1
tracking feature coordinates of design features of the container to be labeled from a position of the first inspection unit arranged in the conveying direction of the labeling machine along the conveying path of the container to a second inspection unit, in particular to a label position check
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a labelling machine (1), wherein feature coordinates of a design feature (11) of a container (4) are detected by a first inspection unit (10) and are transferred to a second inspection unit (15) which follows a labelling assembly (3), with the result that the feature coordinates of the design feature (11) are tracked along the conveying path from the first inspection unit (10) to the second inspection unit (15). Detection of the design feature (11) or of the orientation of a label (18) with respect to said design feature (11) can thus be dispensed with in the second inspection unit (15), wherein the second inspection unit (15) can nevertheless generate a conclusion about the correct orientation of the label (18) with respect to the design feature (11).