Robotic Labeling System with Vision Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual labeling of packages/boxes is inefficient due to inconsistent labeling positions and orientations, complicating identification and decreasing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A labeling system comprising a mechanical arm guided by visual devices for precise placement of labels on objects and scanning devices for accurate label recognition, enabling automation and adjustable placement according to user requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual labeling is used, then flexibility in operation is maintained, but work efficiency is low and labeling consistency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical labeling operations with an automated robotic system. A robotic arm equipped with a labeling device is controlled by a control unit that receives positioning information from vision systems or pre-stored data, enabling automatic label application without manual intervention. This substitution directly resolves the contradiction by eliminating manual labor while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The labeling system is designed to autonomously perform the complete labeling process without continuous human intervention. The control unit automatically controls the robotic arm's movement, positioning, and label application based on pre-programmed parameters or real-time vision feedback. The system serves itself by integrating all necessary functions (positioning, labeling, scanning) into a single automated workflow, thereby improving productivity while reducing manual operation requirements.
2Manufacturing precision
If labels are randomly pasted manually, then operation simplicity is maintained, but labeling position and orientation consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces imprecise manual labeling with an automated robotic labeling system. The robotic arm, controlled by a control unit with pre-stored positioning parameters or vision-guided feedback, precisely positions and orients labels according to predetermined specifications. This mechanical substitution eliminates the variability of manual placement while achieving consistent labeling precision through automated control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning and orientation planning before actual label application. The control unit contains pre-stored positioning parameters that define the exact location and orientation for each label. Alternatively, vision systems capture and analyze the object's geometry in advance to calculate optimal label placement. This preliminary action ensures consistent labeling precision while simplifying the actual labeling operation to a straightforward execution step.
3Productivity
If automated labeling is implemented, then work efficiency is improved, but identification of label positions becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates vision systems or positioning sensors that automatically detect and measure label positions during the automated labeling process. These detection devices work in conjunction with the control unit to verify label placement accuracy in real-time. This integration resolves the contradiction by making detection an inherent part of the automated system rather than a separate complex manual process, thereby maintaining high productivity while simplifying label identification through automated feedback.
4Loss of time
If manual labeling is used, then system complexity is low, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual labeling operations with an automated robotic system that can apply multiple labels rapidly and continuously. The robotic arm, controlled by pre-stored positioning parameters, executes labeling tasks at high speed without fatigue or breaks. This mechanical substitution directly addresses the time loss by providing sustained high-speed operation, justifying the increased system complexity through significant productivity gains.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated labeling system enables continuous operation without the interruptions inherent in manual labeling. The robotic arm can maintain constant motion and label application rate, while the control unit continuously manages positioning and parameters. This continuity of useful action eliminates idle time between labeling tasks and maintains optimal operational speed throughout the process, thereby reducing total time consumption despite the complexity of the automated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A labeling system includes a pasting unit having a first mechanical arm adapted to pick up a label to be pasted, at least one visual device configured to guide the first mechanical arm to paste the label on an object, and at least one scanning device adapted to scan the label pasted on the object.