Linerless Label Applicator with Silicon Release Agent

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for automatically printing and applying labels to shipping items are inefficient, as they often require manual handling and do not allow for easy removal or reapplication of labels, and fail to meet the dynamic labeling needs of consumers.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a movable label applicator device with a printer and applicator that can print and apply multiple labels removably stacked on top of each other, using linerless label technology with a silicon release agent for easy removal, and a controller to manage label placement and printing on a conveyor system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple labels are applied directly to the shipping item surface, then label information is provided, but label removal and reapplication becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel removal and reapplicationVSAvoidlabel adhesion

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The label system is segmented into multiple removable layers: a linerless label with release agent, an intermediate label, and an outer label. This segmentation allows the outer labels to be removed and reapplied while the inner linerless label remains adhered to the shipping item, solving the contradiction between easy removal and reliable adhesion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The linerless label with silicon release agent acts as an intermediary between the shipping item and the outer labels. It provides a temporary adhesive surface that allows outer labels to be applied and removed easily, while the release agent prevents permanent adhesion, enabling label reapplication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If manual handling is used for label application, then label placement can be controlled, but labeling throughput decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabeling throughputVSAvoidmanual handling requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The linerless label material is designed to be self-adhering with a release agent on the back. When stacked labels are applied, the linerless label automatically adheres to the shipping item while the outer labels adhere to the linerless label, eliminating the need for manual handling and enabling automated high-speed labeling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple labeling functions are merged into a single application process. The system combines the adhesive function, release agent function, and multiple label layers into one integrated labeling solution that can be applied automatically at high speed while maintaining control over label placement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Loss of time

If packing list pouches are manually filed and attached, then documentation is provided, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing timeVSAvoidmanual filing and attaching

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The manual mechanical process of filing and attaching packing list pouches is replaced with an automated printing and labeling system. The packing list information is printed directly on labels that are automatically applied to the shipping item, eliminating the need for manual filing and attaching operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The packing list information is prepared and printed in advance on labels before the labeling operation. This preliminary preparation allows the labels to be ready for immediate automated application, eliminating the need for on-site manual filing and reducing processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 solution increases labeling throughput, allows for easy removal and reapplication of labels, and meets the dynamic labeling needs by enabling efficient and automated application of unique information on shipping items, including packing lists and return shipping labels.

Implementation Method 1

The linerless label material may include a top coating comprising a silicon release agent that is configured to provide for removal of labels individually from the roll of label material and from other labels in a stack of labels

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRelease agent (silicon coating): Lubrication

Data Source

PatentUS10450099B2Devices, systems, and methods for automatically printing and applying labels to products

Publication Date: 2019.10.22 DMT SOLUTIONS GLOBAL CORP

AI summary

Devices, systems, and methods for automatically printing and applying one or more label to at least one item to enable shipping of the at least one item by a carrier are provided. In some aspects, a movable label applicator device includes a printer for printing the one or more label onto a supply of labeling material, wherein the one or more printed label contains unique information associated with the at least one item. In some aspects, the device further includes an applicator for applying the one or more printed label to a surface of the at least one item, wherein the applicator is configured to apply multiple labels to the surface of the at least one item such that the multiple labels are removably stacked on top of one another.