Robotic Labeling System with Optical Scanning and Multi-Axis Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Robotic systems lack the sophistication to execute complex tasks that require human-like interactions, such as precise labeling of objects, especially in environments where objects have preexisting labels or complex surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A multi-purpose labeling system that includes a conveyor, a visual analysis module, and a labeling assembly. The system optically scans objects to determine physical and identifying information, calculates a target labeling location, prints and prepares a label, and then aligns and applies the label using a combination of lateral, vertical, and rotary motion modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a robotic system is used to perform labeling tasks, then productivity and consistency are improved, but the system lacks the sophistication to handle complex tasks requiring human-like interactions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabeling efficiencyVSAvoidsophistication for complex tasks

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

A visual analysis module acts as an intermediary between the robotic system and the object, providing sophisticated object characterization capabilities. The module includes sensors (cameras, LIDAR, tactile sensors) that capture detailed information about the object's geometry, surfaces, and preexisting labels, enabling the robotic system to make intelligent labeling decisions without requiring human-like sophistication

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The labeling system is designed as a multi-functional integrated platform that combines conveyor mechanisms, visual analysis, label printing, and precise positioning capabilities. This universal system can handle various labeling scenarios (different objects, surfaces, and label types) through a single coordinated mechanism rather than requiring multiple specialized systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Extent of automation

If automated labeling is implemented, then human involvement is reduced, but precision in placing labels on complex surfaces is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated label placementVSAvoidlabel placement accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The visual analysis module provides real-time feedback about the object's actual position, orientation, and surface characteristics. This feedback is used by the control system to dynamically adjust the labeling module's positioning and label application parameters, ensuring precise label placement even on complex surfaces with preexisting labels or irregular geometries

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary visual analysis and characterization of the object before label application. The controller pre-calculates the optimal label placement location and positioning parameters based on the detected object features, allowing the robotic system to execute precise label placement without requiring human-like judgment during the actual labeling action

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple labeling scenarios are supported, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling of preexisting labels and complex surfacesVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces complex mechanical handling and manual inspection with optical and sensor-based detection. The visual analysis module uses cameras, LIDAR, and other sensors to automatically detect and characterize preexisting labels, object geometry, and surface properties, eliminating the need for complex mechanical manipulation or human intervention to assess labeling opportunities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 enables robotic systems to automatically identify objects, generate and apply labels without human intervention, improving efficiency and reducing the need for manual object handling and label placement.

Implementation Method 1

a visual analysis module including an optical sensor directed toward the conveyor and configured to generate image data depicting the object

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical scanning: Light

Data Source

PatentUS12275551B2Robotic systems with multi-purpose labeling systems and methods

Publication Date: 2025.04.15 MUJIN INC

AI summary

A multi-purpose labeling system can include a conveyor, a visual analysis module, and a labeling assembly. The conveyor can move an object in a first direction. The visual analysis module can include an optical sensor directed toward the conveyor to generate image data depicting the object. The labeling assembly can be spaced from the conveyor in a second direction and include a printer, a labeling module, and an alignment assembly. The printer can print a label based on the image data, and the labeling module can have a labeling plate for receiving the label. The alignment assembly can include a lateral-motion module, a vertical-motion module, and a rotary module for moving the labeling module along or about the first, the second, and a third direction, and can place the labeling plate adjacent to an object surface.