Robotic Labeling System with Vision-Guided Orientation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional package labeling systems are manual, prone to human error, and inefficient, with automated systems being expensive and not adaptable to different package sizes or orientations.
Innovation Solution
A robotic labeling system with a package identification station using cameras and a scanning device to determine package orientation and apply labels dynamically, allowing for efficient and accurate labeling of packages of varying sizes and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual labeling process is used, then operators can determine label location, but labor costs are high and human error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of determining label location with an automated vision system. Multiple cameras capture images of the package, and image processing algorithms automatically identify the package orientation and determine the optimal label placement location, eliminating human intervention and its associated errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the package itself to provide information about its orientation and identity through machine-readable codes and visual features. The vision system reads these self-provided cues to automatically determine labeling parameters without external human guidance.
2Extent of automation
If conventional automated labeling system with single axis arm is used, then labeling can be automated, but the system cannot accommodate different sized packages or orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a robotic manipulator with multiple degrees of freedom that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation. The system captures images from multiple angles and uses this information to calculate the optimal positioning of the label applicator, enabling it to adapt to packages of varying sizes and orientations in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision-guided robotic system serves multiple functions: identifying package orientation, determining label placement location, guiding the robotic manipulator, and verifying label application. This multi-functional approach allows a single system to handle diverse packaging scenarios that would require multiple specialized systems in conventional approaches.
3Measurement precision
If multiple scanners are used to scan all sides of package, then package identification is complete, but system cost increases and setup is labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging functions into a single vision system. Multiple cameras are integrated and coordinated to capture images from different angles, which are then processed together to achieve complete package identification. This merged approach replaces multiple separate scanner devices with a unified system that is less complex and more cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using multiple scanners positioned around the package, the patent uses cameras positioned to capture two-dimensional images that, when processed together, provide three-dimensional information about package orientation and features. The image processing algorithm reconstructs spatial relationships from 2D images, effectively adding a dimensional perspective through computational methods rather than physical device multiplication.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic labeling system includes a package locating system and a package identification station identifying a package orientation. The robotic labeling system includes a label application station having first and second label printers and first and second label applicators. The label printers are both capable of printing a shipping label and a customer specific label. The first label applicator applies a first label (either the shipping label or the customer specific label) to a first side of the package while the second label applicator applies a second label (other of the shipping label or the customer specific label) to a second side of the package different than the first side. The printing and application of the labels is based on the orientation of the package.