Container Labeling Rotation Control Using Manual Reference Position

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing labeling machines require complex operator input for determining container rotation curves, leading to susceptibility to errors and high expertise demands.

Innovation Solution

A labeling machine with a control unit that determines and controls container rotation based on a manually set rotational position, simplifying the process by allowing operators to easily set positions and automatically calculate necessary rotations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If complex procedures are used to determine rotation curves based on numerous entered positions, then labeling quality and position requirements can be met, but operator workload and susceptibility to errors increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel positioning precisionVSAvoidoperator workload
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically determines the rotation curve by capturing images of the container at different positions and using image recognition to identify features and calculate the required rotation. This eliminates the need for manual entry of rotation positions by the operator, reducing workload while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of entering rotation positions is replaced with an automated optical system using cameras and image processing algorithms. The system captures images, processes them computationally, and automatically generates the rotation curve without human intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If complex procedures are used to determine rotation curves, then labeling position requirements can be met, but the system becomes more susceptible to errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelabel positioning precisionVSAvoiderror susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-measurement by automatically capturing and processing images to determine the rotation curve. This eliminates human error in manual data entry and calculation, improving reliability while maintaining the precision needed for correct label positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses image feedback from cameras to continuously monitor and adjust the rotation curve determination. By comparing actual container features captured in images with expected positions, the system can automatically correct deviations and ensure accurate labeling while reducing error susceptibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If manual rotation position entry is required for each container, then precise rotation control can be achieved, but the process becomes more complex and requires high operator expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotation position precisionVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex manual process of entering rotation positions is replaced with automated image capture and computational processing. Cameras capture container images at multiple positions, and software algorithms automatically determine the rotation curve, simplifying the overall process while maintaining measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

An image processing intermediary system is introduced between the container and the rotation control mechanism. The system captures images, processes them to extract geometric features, and uses this information to calculate the rotation curve, thereby simplifying the control process while maintaining precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP4674773A1Labelling machine for labelling containers
Publication Date: 2026.01.07 KRONES AG
  • EP4674773A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4674773A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4674773A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Labeling machine (100) for labeling containers (130), the labeling machine (100) comprising a container holder (111) for rotatably receiving a container (130) and for transporting the container (130) along a transport direction (T), a functional component (121-124) for performing a function associated with labeling the container (130) at a position of the container (130) along the transport direction (T), and a control unit (180), wherein the control unit (180) is configured to determine a necessary rotation of the container (130) and to control the rotation of the container (130) based on a manually set rotational position of the container (130) in the holder at the position.