Movable Labeling Machine for Non-Planar Workpieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labelling machines for panels suffer from long operation execution times and inadequate label adhesion due to large label sizes and panel undulations, leading to inefficient and incomplete labelling processes.
Innovation Solution
A labelling machine with a movable label generation and applying device system, featuring an oblong supporting element and an articulated movement system allowing curved trajectories, along with a suction system for precise label placement on non-planar workpieces, ensuring correct and rapid label application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the pad moves towards the printer to pick up the label and then positions itself above the bearing plane to apply the label, then the labelling operation can be completed, but the work cycle duration becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the entire label generation and application device movable relative to the bearing plane, allowing dynamic positioning instead of fixed positions. The device can move along the first axis parallel to the bearing plane and along the third axis perpendicular to it, enabling rapid repositioning and reducing idle movement time between label picking and application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the label generation device and the applying device into a single integrated movable unit. This merging allows the device to perform both label picking and label application in a continuous motion sequence, eliminating the need for separate positioning operations and reducing overall cycle time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the label generation device and applying device are fixed in position, then the structure is simpler, but the device cannot adapt to non-planar workpiece surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic positioning capabilities with the device movable along multiple axes (first axis parallel to bearing plane, third axis perpendicular to it). This dynamic structure allows the device to adapt its position to accommodate undulations and non-planar features of workpieces while maintaining a relatively simple overall framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables local adjustment of the label application position through multi-axis movement. The device can position the applying device at different locations and heights to match the local surface characteristics of the workpiece, ensuring proper adhesion on non-planar surfaces without requiring complex overall restructuring.
3Reliability
If the label is applied from above on panels with undulations, then the structure is simpler, but the label adhesion becomes inadequate due to large label sizes and surface irregularities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable applying device that can dynamically adjust its position along the first axis (parallel to bearing plane) and third axis (perpendicular to it). This allows the applying device to follow the contour of undulating surfaces and maintain optimal contact pressure for reliable label adhesion, while the movement system remains based on simple linear guides and actuators.
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 machine enables rapid and accurate label application on workpieces, reducing structural complexity and improving adhesion by allowing flexible movement and precise positioning of labels on uneven surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a suction system and said applying device can comprise, in its lower part, a piston movable along said third axis and connected to said suction system to allow, in use, the retaining of at least one label by said piston
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a machine for labelling workpieces (1, 101) comprising: a bearing plane (2, 102) for bearing at least one workpiece (P, P') to be labelled; a label generation device (9, 109) for generating at least one label, said label generation device (9, 109) being placed above said bearing plane (2, 102); and an applying device (12, 120) for applying said at least one label on said at least one workpiece (P, P'). Said label generation device (9, 109) and said applying device (12, 120) are movable relative to each other to allow the transfer of said at least one label from said label generation device (9, 109) to said applying device (12, 120). Said applying device (12, 120) and said at least one workpiece (P, P') are movable relative to each other to allow the transfer of said at least one label from said applying device (12, 120) to said at least one workpiece (P, P'). Also described is a method for applying at least one label on at least one workpiece by means of the above-mentioned machine for labelling workpieces (1, 101).