Multi-layer loop tag with non-die-cut margins for printer transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-layer loop tags face transportation issues in baggage tag printers due to reduced stiffness caused by die-cutting, leading to tags winding around the platen roller and requiring frequent maintenance, which results in operational inefficiencies and costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer loop tag design with a release layer on the front side and a cold seal adhesive layer on the reverse side, featuring non-die-cut margin areas that enhance stiffness, preventing the tag from winding around the printer roller, and incorporating a self-adhesive layer with improved adhesive properties to ensure reliable bonding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If die-cutting is performed to create functional areas on the tag, then the tag gains detachable multi-layer areas for functionality, but the stiffness of the tag material is reduced leading to transportation problems in printers
Solution Approach 1:
The tag is divided into functional die-cut areas and non-die-cut margin areas. The margin areas at the long sides of the strip are specifically preserved without die-cutting to maintain structural integrity and stiffness, while still allowing detachable multi-layer areas to be created in other regions for functional purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the tag have different properties: margin areas maintain full multi-layer structure with high stiffness, while functional areas are die-cut to provide detachability. This local differentiation allows the tag to have both structural strength and functional versatility simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If the tag material is pulled in and out of the printer for backfeed before print, then printing can start at the beginning of the tag, but the bending stress causes the additional stub to turn round and adhere to the reverse side of the tag
Solution Approach 1:
The margin areas are designed with sufficient stiffness before the tag enters the printer to prevent the additional stub from bending and adhering to the reverse side during the backfeed operation. This preliminary structural design counteracts the bending stress that would otherwise cause transportation problems.
Solution Approach 2:
The stiffness parameter of the tag material is optimized by preserving the full multi-layer structure in margin areas, creating a stiffness threshold that prevents unwanted bending and adhesion during printer operations while still allowing the die-cut functional areas to provide necessary flexibility.
3Reliability
If the stiffness of the tag material is increased to prevent winding around the platen roller, then transportation reliability improves, but the ease of handling for users decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The tag structure is segmented into stiff margin areas for transportation reliability and flexible functional areas for user handling. The die-cut detachable multi-layer areas provide the necessary flexibility and ease of manipulation for users while the non-die-cut margins maintain structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the tag have different mechanical properties optimized for their specific functions: margin areas have high stiffness for preventing roller winding, while die-cut functional areas have lower stiffness and higher flexibility for easy user handling and detachment.
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 enhanced stiffness and adhesive properties of the multi-layer loop tag improve its runnability in printers, reducing the likelihood of tags getting stuck and requiring maintenance, thus enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime and costs.
Implementation Method 1
a self-adhesive layer (1) coated on the reverse side of a first web (2), a release layer (3) coated on the front side of a second web (4), the release layer being attached to the self-adhesive layer (1) of the first web (2)
Implementation Method 2
a cold seal adhesive layer (5) coated on the reverse side of the second web (4)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A multi-layer loop tag having the form of an elongated strip comprising a release layer (3) coated on the front side of a second web (4), and a cold seal adhesive layer (5) coated on the reverse side of the second web (4), wherein the multi-layer loop tag further comprises a self-adhesive layer (1) coated on the reverse side of a first web (2), the release layer (3) is attached to the self-adhesive layer (1) of the first web (2), and the first web (2) and the self-adhesive layer (1) are die-cut in a manner that a multi-layer area comprising part of the first web (2) and part of the self-adhesive layer (1) is predetermined and detachable from the multi-layer loop tag, characterized in that the predetermined multi-layer area does not comprise any part of both margin areas (11 ) at the long sides of the strip wherein the margin areas (11) are defined to have each a width of 1 to 10 mm, preferably 3 to 6 mm.