Magnetic Suction Plate for Label Holder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bottling label switching assemblies face issues with frequent shutdowns due to degradation of removable suction modules, leading to inefficiencies in label alignment and connection, resulting in downtime and increased costs from incomplete label splicing.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum station with a reusable suction plate that is more durable and easier to replace, featuring a rectangular recess with magnets for secure attachment and multiple suction holes for effective label holding, allowing for continuous operation with minimal downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a removable suction module is used for label holding, then the label alignment and connection can be maintained, but the module degrades over time requiring frequent shutdowns for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical suction module with a magnetic suction plate that is removably connected to the main housing via magnets. This magnetic connection system allows for quicker and easier replacement compared to the previous mechanical module, reducing shutdown time while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the connection mechanism from mechanical to magnetic, fundamentally altering how the suction plate is attached and removed. This parameter change enables faster replacement cycles and improves overall system reliability by reducing the frequency and duration of shutdowns.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the suction module is made more durable, then replacement frequency decreases, but the complexity of making it reusable increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction plate is designed as a separate, removable component that can be independently replaced. This segmentation allows the suction functionality to be maintained while simplifying the replacement process, as only the plate needs to be changed, not the entire suction module assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
By substituting the mechanical connection system with a magnetic one, the patent simplifies the overall structure while enabling reusable functionality. The magnetic connection provides sufficient holding force without requiring complex mechanical fastening mechanisms.
3Productivity
If the bottling line operates continuously, then production efficiency increases, but label splicing issues arise requiring shutdowns
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic suction plate enables continuous operation by allowing quick replacements during or between labeling cycles. The reusable plate maintains consistent suction force, ensuring reliable label alignment and connection without interrupting the bottling process, thus maintaining both productivity and quality.
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 reusable suction plate ensures consistent label alignment and connection, reducing bottling assembly shutdowns and maintaining production efficiency by allowing for easy replacement without halting the bottling process.
Implementation Method 1
The removable plate is removably connected to the main housing by magnets
Implementation Method 2
A sheet of labels can be held to the removable plate by a suction force through the air path in the main housing and the suction holes in the removable plate
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum station comprising a main housing and a pair of arms extending from the main housing. The arms are configured to hold a roller. The main housing has a front face and a rear face, with the front face having a recess therein. An air path extends from the front face to the rear face. The vacuum station also includes a removable plate having a plurality of suction holes therethrough located within the recess in the front face of the main housing. The removable plate is removably connected to the main housing by magnets. A sheet of labels can be held to the removable plate by a suction force through the air path in the main housing and the suction holes in the removable plate.