Linerless Label Application Roller and Belt Conveyor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for applying linerless labels are limited in capacity and efficiency, particularly when it comes to applying pre-printed labels on packings, as they can only handle a low rate of labels per minute, and there is a need for cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions for automatic printing.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a pivotally mounted acceleration roller to ensure a minimum distance between individual labels and a central belt conveyor for rapid leading to an outlet position, along with an optional printer and buffer unit to increase capacity and allow independent printing, enabling higher label application rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional label application apparatuses are used, then the structure is simple, but the productivity is low (20-30 labels per minute)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pivotally mounted holding down arm member that can dynamically adjust its position to engage and hold individual labels during high-speed application. This dynamic mechanism allows the apparatus to handle labels at increased speeds (120 labels per minute) while maintaining reliable label engagement and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus processes labels individually through a sequential mechanism where the holding down arm member engages one label at a time, separates it from the roll, and applies it to the packaging. This segmentation of the labeling process enables high-speed operation by handling labels in discrete, rapid succession rather than as a continuous sheet.
2Productivity
If labels are applied rapidly, then the productivity increases, but the label positioning precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The holding down arm member is designed to automatically engage with the leading edge of each label as it emerges from the roll, holding it in the correct position without requiring external positioning mechanisms. This self-servicing mechanism ensures consistent label positioning even at high application rates of 120 labels per minute.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus prepares each label for application by having the holding down arm member engage and position it in advance before the actual application occurs. This preliminary positioning action ensures that labels are correctly oriented and spaced before being applied to the packaging, maintaining precision during high-speed operation.
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 configuration significantly increases the capacity of label application, achieving up to 120 labels per minute for pre-printed labels of 40-80 mm, compared to 20-30 labels per minute with previous systems, while allowing for continuous printing and after-printing of additional information.
Implementation Method 1
said acceleration roller is pivotally mounted on a sideward projecting arm member in such a manner that the force of gravity acts on said acceleration roller
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
An apparatus (2) for application of linerless labels (12) onto packings or the like, comprising an unwinding system with a spring-loaded hub (4) for a supply roll (6) containing a number of pre-printed labels forming a linerless web (10) and a carrier roller in combination with a carrier member having an anti-stick profiled surface, a stationary cutting unit (16) for cutting said linerless web into individual labels (12), an outlet position from which said individual labels may be automatically applied onto packings or the like, an inclined carrier plate member (24, 36) with a central belt conveyor (26), and in said outlet position an application roller or brush for said final application of said individual labels (12) on to said packings or the like, where said apparatus in connection with said carrier roller and said carrier member comprising a pivotally holding down arm member (34), and in connection with said central belt conveyor (26) comprising an acceleration roller (36) for taken over the final leading of said individual labels (12) to said outlet position. By simply provisions is hereby achieved an improved apparatus for the application of pre-printed linerless labels on to retail packings and the like.