Movable-Arm Labeling Device for Precise In-Motion Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling systems face inaccuracies in applying labels to goods due to lack of precise position detection, insufficient mechanical contact, and throughput limitations, particularly in the postal sector.
Innovation Solution
A labeling device with a movable arm that applies labels through contact, allowing synchronous tracking and adaptation to goods' movements, using a functional end with suction grippers and elastic elements to ensure secure attachment, and a control unit for precise application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If compressed air is used to apply labels without mechanical contact, then the piece of goods can be handled without damage, but the label application precision and adhesion are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of label application from contactless pneumatic application to controlled mechanical contact. The movable arm applies direct mechanical contact to press the label firmly onto the piece of goods, while the elastic element ensures gentle contact that adapts to the goods surface, preventing damage while achieving precise label adhesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element acts as an intermediary between the movable arm and the piece of goods. It transmits the pressing force from the movable arm while cushioning the impact and adapting to the goods surface, thus preventing damage during the label application process.
2Device complexity
If simple light barriers are used to detect piece of goods positions, then the detection system is simple, but the measurement precision and positioning accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple optical light barriers with a movable arm system that physically tracks and follows the piece of goods. The movable arm is positioned and controlled based on the goods location, enabling precise measurement and positioning through mechanical tracking rather than simple optical detection.
3Productivity
If conventional labeling systems are used, then the basic labeling function is provided, but the throughput is not adapted to modern handling device requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable arm that can dynamically adjust its position, speed, and movement trajectory to match the handling device's throughput requirements. The movable arm synchronizes its operations with the piece of goods movement, enabling high-speed label application that adapts to various handling device speeds and rhythms, thereby increasing overall throughput.
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
Enables precise and secure label application on various goods, even during movement, with increased throughput rates and flexibility, adapting to different shapes and orientations without damaging the goods.
Implementation Method 1
The functional end (5) is configured to hold the label (12) by means of negative pressure
Implementation Method 2
The functional end (5) has an elastic holding element which is designed to adapt the holding plane to the external shape of the piece goods (2) when held
Data Source
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AI summary
A label device (1) for applying a label (12) to a piece of goods (2) is provided. The label device (1) comprises: a fixed base (3), a movable arm (4) which is movably mounted on the fixed base (3), a functional end (5) which is provided on the movable arm (4), wherein the functional end (5) is designed to hold a label (12), wherein the movable arm (4) is displaceable between a holding state in which a label (12) can be held on the functional end (5) and an application state in which the functional end (5) can come into contact with the piece of goods (2) in order to apply the label (12) to the piece of goods (2). Furthermore, a method for applying a label (12) to a piece of goods (2) is provided.