Movable-Arm Labeling Device for Precise In-Transit Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling technologies face inaccuracies in applying labels to piece goods due to lack of precise position detection, inadequate mechanical contact, and suboptimal throughput rates, especially in the postal sector.
Innovation Solution
A label device with a movable arm and a function end that allows for precise mechanical contact with piece goods, enabling synchronous tracking and application of labels while the goods are moving, and a control unit for adapting to different piece goods' shapes and movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compressed air is used to apply labels without mechanical contact, then the piece goods are not damaged, but the label attachment is insufficient and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable arm with multiple degrees of freedom that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation to track moving piece goods. This dynamic positioning system allows the label application point to move synchronously with the piece goods, enabling accurate contact-based labeling without damaging the goods through excessive or misplaced force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental parameter of label application from non-contact (compressed air) to contact-based application. By using a movable arm with controlled degrees of freedom, the system achieves precise control over the contact force and position, transforming the labeling process from imprecise air-based application to accurate mechanical contact application.
2Measurement precision
If simple light barriers are used for detection, then the system is simple, but the position detection and measurement precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The movable arm system serves multiple functions: it positions the label application point, tracks moving piece goods, and enables precise measurement through its controlled degrees of freedom. This multi-functional approach integrates detection and application capabilities, reducing the need for separate complex detection systems while improving measurement precision.
3Productivity
If the labeling system is stationary, then the structure is simple, but the throughput rate cannot match modern handling device efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the stationary labeling system into a dynamic one by introducing a movable arm with multiple degrees of freedom. This movable arm can track and follow the motion of piece goods through its degrees of freedom, enabling continuous labeling during transit and significantly increasing throughput rates to match modern handling device efficiency.
4Manufacturing precision
If a defined minimum distance is maintained between the label gripper and piece good, then the piece goods are not damaged, but the label application accuracy and adhesion are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The movable arm system dynamically adjusts the distance between the label application point and the piece good surface. By using its degrees of freedom to track the piece good's position and orientation, the system maintains optimal contact distance for accurate labeling while controlling the force to prevent damage to the piece goods.
Data Source
AI summary
A label device for applying a label to a piece good is provided where label device includes a fixed base, a movable arm which is movably mounted on the fixed base, and a function end which is provided on the movable arm, wherein the function end is configured to hold a label, wherein the movable arm is displaceable between a hold state, in which a label can be held on the function end, and an application state, in which the function end can come into contact with the piece good in order to apply the label to the piece good, and a related method.