Rotary Table Bottom Labeling via Vacuum Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing labeling machines for containers are inefficient and costly due to the need for separate rotary tables and limited accessibility for labeling the bottom of containers, requiring additional transfer mechanisms and space for bottom labeling.
Innovation Solution
A method and device where turntables on a carousel or similar transport means are used to efficiently label the bottom of containers by dispensing bottom labels onto the turntables, allowing for simultaneous side labeling, using self-adhesive or transfer labels, and integrating vacuum suction for precise positioning without additional machinery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate rotary table is used for bottom labeling, then bottom labeling can be performed, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines bottom labeling with the existing side labeling rotary table by providing a labeling device that can apply both side labels and bottom labels on the same rotating platform. The bottom labeling unit is integrated into the rotary table structure, allowing simultaneous or sequential application of side and bottom labels without requiring a separate rotary table for bottom labeling.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary table is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the side labeling platform and the bottom labeling platform. The labeling device includes both side labeling units and bottom labeling units that operate on the same rotary table, making the rotary table a universal platform for both labeling operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If labeling units are arranged below containers for bottom labeling, then bottom labeling is possible, but space availability and accessibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of arranging labeling units only below the containers (vertical dimension), the patent utilizes the radial and tangential dimensions of the rotary table. The bottom labeling units are positioned to access the bottom of containers as they rotate on the table, utilizing the rotational movement to provide adequate labeling space without requiring additional vertical space below the container path.
3Ease of operation
If additional transfer mechanisms are added between container tables, then container transfer is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the container transfer function with the rotary table operation. Containers are transferred to the rotary table and remain on it throughout both bottom labeling and side labeling operations. This eliminates the need for additional transfer mechanisms between separate bottom labeling and side labeling tables, as the single rotary table serves as both the transfer destination and the labeling platform for both operations.
4Productivity
If bottom labels are applied using stamps, then labeling can be performed, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical stamping system with a self-adhesive labeling system. Bottom labels are applied using self-adhesive material that is dispensed and pressed onto the container bottom through a simplified pressing mechanism, eliminating the need for complex stamp fitting, alignment, and removal processes associated with traditional stamp labeling.
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
This approach enables efficient and space-saving labeling of both the bottom and side of containers, reducing costs and complexity by utilizing existing transport areas and minimizing the need for additional equipment, while allowing for flexible alignment and printing of labels.
Implementation Method 1
The turntable is provided with a vacuum for holding the bottom label on its upper side
Implementation Method 2
The self-adhesive labels detach from the carrier strip and, before they have completely detached from the carrier strip, are transferred to the end faces of the containers and pressed on over the entire surface
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and an apparatus for the bottom labelling of containers (2) are described. By virtue of the fact that rotary plates (5, 25) circulating on a transport means are first equipped with bottom labels (3, 23) and the containers are then placed onto the thus equipped rotary plates and pressed against the bottom labels, the bottom labels can be transferred to the rotary plates in a region which is not usable for otherwise equipping the containers, for example with body labels. The bottom labelling system can thus be integrated into labelling machines of the rotary type in a space-saving and efficient manner.