Modular Container Marking with Switchable Label and Laser Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional container labeling methods, such as paper or plastic labels, pose challenges in recycling due to printing ink and adhesives, and existing laser-marking technologies can cause surface changes on containers, necessitating a more flexible and cost-effective marking solution.
Innovation Solution
A modular device that can interchangeably use a labeling module and a laser-marking module, allowing for quick switching between labeling and laser-marking on a container conveyor system, enabling flexible and efficient marking of containers without labels, with features like adjustable marking heads, suction devices, and cooling systems to enhance precision and output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If labels are used for container marking, then marking information can be applied to containers, but recycling is problematic due to printing ink, waterproof papers, and glue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes labels entirely from the container marking process and replaces them with direct laser marking on the container surface. This extraction of the label component eliminates the harmful factors (ink, paper, glue) while preserving the essential function of marking information on containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical labeling system (applying physical labels with adhesive) with a laser-based marking system that uses light energy to directly mark the container surface, thereby eliminating the need for labels and their associated harmful materials.
2Adaptability or versatility
If laser-marking is used to mark containers, then labels can be dispensed with completely, but the laser beam and heat can cause physical changes to the container surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts laser marking parameters (power, speed, pulse duration, wavelength) to achieve the desired marking effect while minimizing unwanted physical changes to the container surface. By optimizing these parameters, the system maintains adaptability for label-free marking while controlling the degree of surface modification.
3Productivity
If a fixed labeling system is installed for container marking, then labeling can be performed efficiently, but retrofitting to laser-marking is costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the container treatment system with a universal coupling unit that can accommodate both labeling modules and laser-marking modules. This multi-functionality allows the same structural platform to perform different marking operations, simplifying retrofitting from labeling to laser-marking while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic, reconfigurable system where the marking module can be changed from labeling to laser-marking based on production requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to transition between different marking technologies without requiring complete system replacement, reducing retrofitting complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple marking modules are integrated into one device, then flexibility and quick switching between labeling and laser-marking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the marking system into separate, interchangeable modules (labeling module and laser-marking module) that can be independently selected and attached to the coupling unit. This segmentation enables flexibility and quick switching between marking methods while managing complexity through modular design, where each module remains relatively simple in itself.
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 modular device allows for high-output, label-free container marking with precise positioning and adaptable marking capabilities, facilitating easy retrofitting and reducing costs, while maintaining high-quality markings and ensuring operator safety.
Implementation Method 1
The laser-marking system (10) has a laser source (14) and a marking head (16)
Implementation Method 2
a focusing device (26) for focusing the laser beam (15)
Implementation Method 3
During laser-marking, the laser beam and the heat it generates on the surface of the container can cause a physical change to the surface of the container
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates, inter alia, to a device for marking containers for a container treatment system. The device has a container conveyor for transporting the containers. The device has a coupling unit, a labeling module, and a laser-marking module. The labeling module and the laser-marking module can be interchangeably coupled to the coupling unit. Advantageously, the device can be used particularly flexibly, because the labeling module and the laser-marking module can be coupled to the same coupling unit, so that the device can be used flexibly and as required for labeling with the labeling module or for laser-marking with the laser-marking module.