Rotatable Tamp Head for Label Alignment on Irregular Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing label application systems for containers often result in labels becoming unreadable due to misalignment and surface irregularities, leading to delays and increased costs in delivery processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of rotatable tamp heads that align with the angular orientation of containers, sensed by laser sensors or imaging devices, to apply labels in orientations that avoid seams, edges, and creases, ensuring the information remains legible during handling and delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If labels are applied to containers using conventional fixed tamp heads, then the labeling process is simple and quick, but the labels become misaligned and unreadable due to container surface irregularities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the tamp head rotatable to adapt to different container orientations. The system dynamically adjusts the tamp head angle based on detected container orientation, allowing the labeling system to handle varying container positions and surface irregularities while maintaining label alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using laser sensors or imaging devices to detect container orientation and surface features, then using this information to control the rotation and positioning of the tamp head. This closed-loop feedback system ensures labels are applied at the correct orientation despite variations in container placement.
2Reliability
If labels are applied without considering container orientation, then the labeling process is fast, but label information becomes unreadable due to seams and surface discontinuities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting and measuring container orientation and surface features before the label application process. This advance detection allows the system to pre-position the tamp head at the correct angle and location, ensuring label readability is maintained while minimizing adjustments during the actual labeling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical fixed-position labeling with an automated system that uses optical sensing (laser or imaging) to detect container characteristics, then uses controlled rotation mechanisms to position the tamp head. This substitution of mechanical positioning with sensor-based control improves both reliability and productivity.
3Loss of time
If conventional labeling systems are used, then equipment cost is low, but delivery delays and costs increase due to unreadable labels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the labeling system to automatically detect container orientation, calculate optimal label placement, and adjust tamp head positioning without human intervention. This automation eliminates the need for manual label application adjustments, preventing delivery delays caused by unreadable labels while keeping the system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the tamp head rotation angle based on detected container orientation parameters. The system measures container angular orientation and uses this parameter to control the rotation of the tamp head, ensuring labels are applied at the optimal angle for readability while maintaining efficient throughput.
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 significantly reduces label damage and ensures that critical information remains readable, enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the delivery process by maintaining label integrity.
Implementation Method 1
at least one attribute of the container traveling on at least one conveyor is determined using at least one sensor
Implementation Method 2
a print head, and a rotatable tamp head configured to be rotated about an axis by a controller. The rotatable tamp head may be rotated based at least in part on one or more dimensions of the container
Data Source
AI summary
Printing systems may include a rotatable tamp head that may be repositioned, as necessary, in order to cause a label to be printed in a specific location or in a certain alignment on an object. Such tamp heads may be repositioned as necessary where the label may cross a seam, a crease, a fold or another surface feature which might cause the label to be bowed or damaged in transit. The tamp head may be positioned in a manner that would enable any information, markings or bar codes thereon to remain legible and intact even if the label is applied across such a surface feature. An orientation of the object may be determined using one or more sensors aligned at various angles with respect to a direction of travel of the object.