Optical Centering for Packaging Treatment Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing treatment machines for packaging materials, such as labeling machines, face challenges in achieving high repeatability and positioning accuracy when docking and undocking treatment modules, leading to significant deviations from the target position and subsequent deterioration in labeling quality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of optical adjustment and setting aids, including laser beam-supported systems, to detect and correct deviations in the position of docked treatment modules along multiple axes, ensuring precise alignment and optimal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical docking and centering elements are used to position treatment modules, then the module can be quickly docked and undocked, but high repeatability and positioning accuracy (within 1/10ths of a millimeter) cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces purely mechanical positioning with an optical measurement and adjustment system. Optical sensors detect the actual position of the treatment module with high precision, and the position is adjusted accordingly, eliminating reliance on mechanical tolerances alone for achieving sub-millimeter positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual position of the treatment module is measured using optical sensors after docking, compared to the target position, and used to drive adjustments. This closed-loop feedback enables high repeatability by continuously monitoring and correcting position deviations.
2Manufacturing precision
If treatment modules are reset during test runs or setting modes to achieve optimal positioning, then labeling quality is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning using optical sensors immediately after docking, before the treatment module is put into operation. The actual position is detected and adjusted in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming reset operations during test runs or setting modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual or mechanical resetting operations with automated optical measurement and adjustment. The optical sensors quickly detect position deviations, and the system automatically adjusts the treatment module to the correct position, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining labeling quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If treatment modules are docked repeatedly, then adaptability to different labeling tasks is achieved, but deviations from target position occur leading to deterioration in labeling quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical sensors to continuously monitor the actual position of treatment modules after each docking operation. The measured position is fed back to the adjustment mechanism, which compensates for deviations. This feedback loop ensures consistent labeling quality across multiple docking cycles, even when different modules are used.
Solution Approach 2:
The treatment module positioning system is self-correcting. After docking, the optical sensors automatically detect position deviations, and the adjustment mechanism autonomously corrects them without external intervention. This self-service capability maintains reliable labeling quality regardless of how many times modules are docked or undocked.
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 quick and easy detection and readjustment of treatment modules to achieve the desired position, improving labeling quality and reducing the time-consuming process of resetting modules during test runs or setting modes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one laser (15), whose laser beam (14) is directed onto a marking (16)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for treating packaging means, particularly in the form of bottles and similar containers, comprising a conveying element that can be used to move the packaging means past at least one treatment module provided on at least one operating position, which module can be coupled to and decoupled from the treatment position, and mechanical coupling and/or centering means determining the position of the at least one treatment module after docking. The invention is characterized in that, in order to detect possible deviations of the treatment module coupled to the treatment machine from the target position, and/or to realign the coupled treatment module into the target position, at least one optical centering and adjusting means is provided, some of the functional elements of which are provided on the treatment module, and some are provided on the treatment machine.