Reel Support Device for Continuous Label Web Joining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing labelling machines face challenges in seamlessly switching between reels of self-adhesive labels without stopping, due to asymmetrical webs requiring different joining methods based on reel positioning, leading to complex operations and reduced productivity.

Innovation Solution

A device with rotatably mounted supports and guide mechanisms allows for consistent mutual positioning of reels, enabling seamless web joining by inverting support positions and moving supports along a guide system, ensuring continuous operation without interruptions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual or semi-automatic joining methods are used for asymmetrical webs, then the joining operation can be performed, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejoining operation simplicityVSAvoidpositioning and joining system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by introducing a mirror symmetry mechanism that converts the inherent asymmetry of labelled webs into a symmetrical operational configuration. The second support and its associated components (guide, positioning unit, cam mechanism) are positioned and configured as mirror images of the first support system, allowing identical joining methods to be applied regardless of which reel is being joined. This mirror symmetry approach transforms the problematic asymmetrical web configuration into a symmetrical operational process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs inversion by allowing the supports to exchange positions through the mirror symmetry mechanism. When one reel is exhausted, the second support with the pre-positioned web moves to the first position, and a new second reel is mounted on the second support. This position inversion ensures that the web joining operation always occurs under identical conditions, eliminating the need for different joining methods based on reel position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Productivity

If reel switching is performed without continuous web joining, then the machine can be maintained, but productivity decreases due to stopping

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabelling machine outputVSAvoiddowntime for reel replacement

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-mounting the second reel on the second support and pre-positioning its web using the cam mechanism and positioning unit before the first reel is exhausted. The web from the second reel is advanced and held in readiness with proper tension and alignment, so that when the first reel finishes, the joining operation can occur immediately without stopping the machine. This advance preparation eliminates idle time during reel transitions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuity of useful action by implementing a system where web feeding from both reels occurs simultaneously and continuously. The first web is fed from the first reel while the second web is pre-positioned from the second reel. When joining occurs, there is no interruption in web supply to the labelling machine. The mirror symmetry mechanism and coordinated support positioning maintain continuous operational flow, preventing any stoppage that would reduce productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If different joining methods are used for different reel positions, then all asymmetrical web configurations can be handled, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling of different web configurationsVSAvoidjoining process simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing the mirror symmetry mechanism and support positioning system to handle all web joining operations with a single, standardized method. The second support, equipped with its own guide, positioning unit, and cam mechanism, replicates the functionality of the first support system. This universal configuration allows the same joining procedure to be applied regardless of which reel (first or second) is being joined to the active web, eliminating the need for operators to learn or switch between multiple joining methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3018083B1Device for supporting reels of webs with self-adhesive labels

Publication Date: 2019.01.09 KOSME S R L UNIPERSONALE

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AI summary

A device for supporting reels of webs with self-adhesive labels for labelling machines comprising a supporting structure (5) and at least two supports (6) each for supporting a reel of web with self-adhesive labels fixed on one side of it; the supports (6) being rotatably mounted or mountable on the supporting structure (5), one at a first position and one at a second position; the positions of the two supports (6) being invertible, and a support (6) positioned in the second position being movable to the first position, in use, allowing, during the entire movement, unwinding of a web from a reel (14) mounted on it and feeding to a labelling machine.