Laser Coding Device for Cigarette Packaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing coding devices for bundle packs, such as cigarette packs, face issues with permanent and tamper-proof coding, high process time, and inability to individually code cigarette packets after bundling, with consumable label-based systems being prone to detachment and environmental damage.

Innovation Solution

A coding device utilizing a laser for direct inscription on bundle packs or individual cigarette packets, with a conveyor system and positioning means to ensure precise and rapid coding, reducing process time and enhancing coding quality and permanence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If labels are printed and affixed to bundle packs, then coding can be applied, but the coding is not permanent and can be detached or damaged by environmental influences

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoding permanenceVSAvoidenvironmental damage to labels

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical label affixing system with a laser-based direct marking system. Instead of mechanically attaching labels that can detach or damage, the laser directly inscribes the coding onto the bundle pack surface, creating a permanent mark that cannot be detached or easily damaged by environmental factors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state of the coding from a separate label material to a direct modification of the bundle pack surface through laser ablation or burning. This parameter change from additive (label) to transformative (surface marking) ensures permanence and resistance to environmental damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If multiple coding units are arranged in series to ensure uninterrupted operation, then continuous coding is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuninterrupted coding operationVSAvoidnumber of coding units

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a quick-change mechanism that allows a single coding unit to serve multiple purposes through rapid configuration changes. The coding unit can be quickly repositioned or reconfigured to maintain uninterrupted operation, eliminating the need for multiple permanent coding units while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If labels are used for coding, then coding can be applied, but consumables have to be replenished regularly requiring additional labor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoding operation continuityVSAvoidconsumable replenishment labor

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the consumable label system with a laser-based direct marking system that uses no physical consumables. The laser inscribes coding directly onto the bundle pack, eliminating the need for labels, printing materials, and the labor associated with replenishing these consumables.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Loss of information

If individual cigarette packets are coded separately, then individual tracking is possible, but process time increases due to multiple coding steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindividual packet identificationVSAvoidmultiple coding steps

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the coding operations by applying individual packet codes and bundle pack codes in a single integrated process. The laser system can selectively mark individual packets and then mark the bundle pack in one continuous operation, eliminating the need for separate coding steps and reducing total process time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 laser-based coding system provides a fast, permanent, and tamper-proof solution that can be applied post-manufacturing, reducing consumable usage and allowing individual packet coding, with high accuracy and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

the coding unit has at least one laser or at least one laser unit for applying the coding, in particular in the form of laser inscription

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Data Source

PatentEP3070013B1Coding device for coding container packaging, method for coding a container packaging and labelling system with a coding device

Publication Date: 2017.05.10 KOHL MASCHBAUU

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a coding device (1) for coding packaging units (2), in particular cigarette packaging units, comprising a conveying device (3) and a coding unit (4), wherein the conveying device (3) has a conveyor belt (5) driven intermittently for conveying the packaging units (2), and wherein the coding unit (4) codes at least one packaging unit (2) during a standstill of the conveyor belt (5). The invention is characterized in particular in that the coding unit (4) has at least one laser (6) for applying the coding in the form of laser marking. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for coding a packaging unit (2) and a labeling system (20) with a coding device (1) according to the invention.