Reel Labeling Robots for Parallel Handling and Inner-Core Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for labeling and handling reels of web material suffer from low flexibility and handling speed, negatively impacting the productivity of reel packaging lines.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first labeling robot and a second handling robot, equipped with anthropomorphic arms and centering systems, allows simultaneous labeling and handling of multiple reels by applying labels to the inner and outer surfaces, utilizing vacuum and pneumatic systems for label application and expandable gripping elements for reel manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single robot is used for both labeling and handling reels, then device complexity is reduced, but handling speed and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the reel processing function into two separate robots: a first robot dedicated to labeling operations and a second robot dedicated to handling and stacking operations. This segmentation allows each robot to specialize in its specific task, increasing overall handling speed and productivity while maintaining reasonable device complexity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple labeling machines (for inner and outer surface labeling) with the first robot, and integrates the second robot with stacking and packaging functions. This merging of multiple functions into coordinated robotic systems achieves high-speed processing while managing device complexity through integrated control.
2Reliability
If multiple labeling machines are used for inner and outer surface labeling, then labeling completeness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first robot is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a labeling machine for inner and outer surfaces and as a handling device for reel positioning. This universal robot performs multiple labeling tasks that would traditionally require separate dedicated machines, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining labeling completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The labeling function is segmented into inner surface labeling and outer surface labeling operations, performed by the first robot in sequence. This segmentation allows comprehensive labeling without requiring all labeling machines to operate simultaneously, managing device complexity through temporal rather than spatial separation.
3Manufacturing precision
If reels are processed one by one, then handling precision is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The first robot performs preliminary labeling actions on reels while the second robot simultaneously performs handling and stacking actions on other reels. This preliminary action approach allows overlapping of operations, increasing productivity while maintaining precision through dedicated specialized robots for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes continuous useful action by having the first robot continuously label reels while the second robot continuously handles and stacks them. This continuous parallel operation maximizes productivity while each robot maintains its specific handling precision through specialized design and control.
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 system significantly reduces handling and labeling time, enabling faster and more reliable operations, regardless of reel material softness, by allowing concurrent processing of multiple reels.
Implementation Method 1
a first labeling robot (11) equipped with a centering system and with a tool able to pick up labels from a labeling machine and to apply them inside the reel
Implementation Method 2
a roller is provided, on which a label, to be applied to the inner surface of a tubular winding core, is held, as well as a system is provided for keeping the roller contacting the surface of the tubular element so as to generate a pressure sufficient to stick the label
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The plant includes at least one support (3) for the reels (Bl, B2....Bn) to be labeled, a label dispenser, a first labeling robot (11) adapted to take labels from the label dispenser and to insert them into the central openings of the reels arranged on the support, and a second handling robot (31) adapted to take the reels and to move them away from the support (3).