Slot-Based Tying Device for Automated Label Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tying devices face challenges in efficiently and precisely attaching labels to articles, especially when articles are dirty or fragile, as current methods require manual intervention and are not adaptable to varying article sizes, and often result in label misorientation or concealment, while also being costly and cumbersome due to the use of pneumatic arms.

Innovation Solution

A tying device with a work surface featuring a slot that allows the tie loop to pass through while holding the knot on the second side, enabling easy label attachment without damaging the article, and allowing for precise positioning independent of article size variations, compatible with both automated and semi-automated operations, and adaptable to different machines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a pneumatic arm is used to attach labels to the tie, then label attachment is automated, but the device becomes costly, cumbersome, and noisy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel attachment automationVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the label attachment function from the complex pneumatic arm system and integrates it directly into the tying device structure. The label is attached to the tie during the tying operation itself, eliminating the need for a separate pneumatic arm mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The label attachment operation is merged with the tying operation. Both functions are performed by the same mechanical components (the tying member and work surface) in a single integrated process, rather than as separate automated operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Extent of automation

If a pneumatic arm is used for label attachment, then automation is achieved, but operational costs and maintenance requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel attachment automationVSAvoidease of manufacture

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The tying device is designed to perform multiple functions: tying the article and attaching the label to the tie. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized pneumatic arm equipment, making the system more universally applicable and easier to manufacture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If manual label attachment is performed after bundling, then label placement can be adjusted, but packaging speed decreases and safety conditions are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel placement flexibilityVSAvoidpackaging speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The label is attached to the tie during the tying operation itself, before the article is fully packaged. This preliminary action ensures label placement is secured while maintaining high packaging speeds and meeting safety requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Object-affected harmful factors

If the label is attached to the tie before knotting, then label damage to the article is avoided, but timing control becomes complicated and cycle length increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearticle damageVSAvoidcycle length

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The label attachment is merged with the knotting operation. The label is attached to the tie as the knot is being formed, eliminating the need for separate timing control of label attachment and reducing the overall cycle length.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

5Measurement precision

If the opening is configured as a slot, then the knot is held in position for label attachment, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveknot positioning precisionVSAvoidwork surface structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The work surface opening is segmented into a slot configuration that provides precise positioning for the knot while maintaining structural simplicity. The slot geometry naturally guides and holds the knot in the correct position for label attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10259605B2Tying device

Publication Date: 2019.04.16 ATELIERS DE RECH & CONCEPTIONS A R C

AI summary

The invention relates to a tying device of a type comprising: a work surface (10) comprising an opening (11) in the shape of a slot; a tying member (103) which can be activated so as to place at least one string (400) around an item (500) which is moving in a transfer direction (A) on a first side of the work surface (10), and to carry a portion of said string (400) to a second side of the work surface (10), forming at least one loop; and a knotting lip (55) capable of closing the loop with a knot on the second side of the work surface (10). The slot extends generally in the transfer direction (A), allowing a portion of the loop to pass through, but keeping the knot on the second side of the work surface (10) over at least a portion of the movement of the item (500).