Sorting Device Integrating Scanning and Labeling Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sorting devices for loading, conveying, and discharging objects require significant space for separate scanning and labeling devices at each conveyor system, leading to inefficient use of logistic areas and a wide, branched supply chain.
Innovation Solution
A sorting device with a scanning device and a labeling device integrated along the path, utilizing a robot with multiple degrees of freedom to scan and label objects in motion, eliminating the need for separate devices at each conveyor system and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate scanning and labeling devices are arranged at each feeding conveyor means, then scanning and labeling functions can be performed, but the space required around each conveyor system increases and logistic area efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate scanning devices and labeling devices into a single integrated system. The scanning device scans objects on moving trays, and the labeling device receives the scanned data and applies labels, both functions performed by one coordinated system rather than separate devices at each conveyor location.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system performs multiple functions (scanning, data processing, and labeling) through a single multi-functional unit. The system can scan various objects, process different types of data, and apply different label formats, making it universally applicable across all feeding conveyor means without requiring dedicated devices at each location.
2Reliability
If separate scanning and labeling devices are arranged at each feeding conveyor means, then complete scanning and labeling can be achieved, but the supply chain becomes wide and branched reducing operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple discrete operations (scanning at each conveyor, labeling at each conveyor) into a single integrated workflow. Objects are scanned once on the moving trays, data is processed centrally, and labels are applied in a coordinated manner, eliminating the need for redundant scanning and labeling operations at multiple separate locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation by scanning objects while they are in motion on the trays, processing data continuously, and applying labels without interrupting the flow. This continuous action eliminates idle time and redundant operations that would occur with separate discrete devices at each conveyor location.
3Productivity
If multiple scanning and labeling devices are distributed around the sorting device, then each object can be processed, but the number of devices increases and space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated system serves as a universal processing unit that handles all scanning and labeling operations for multiple objects simultaneously. Rather than having dedicated scanning and labeling devices at each of the many feeding conveyor locations, one multi-functional system performs all necessary operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses optical scanning to create digital copies of object information (barcodes, labels) without physical contact. This allows the same information to be captured and processed for multiple objects through a single scanning operation, eliminating the need for multiple physical labeling devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A sorting device (1 ) for loading, conveying and discharging objects (9), the sorting device (1) comprising: trays (2) each intended for carrying an object (9) in a conveyance direction (T) from a loading position (L) to a discharge position (D), a drive system (6) for conveying the trays (2) along a path (26), a pusher arm (5) arranged on the tray (2) for by means of pushing away, discharging an object (9) present on the tray (2), wherein pushing away takes place substantially transverse to the conveyance direction (T) of the tray (2), a scanning device (3) arranged along the path (26) at a scanning position (30) downstream the loading position (L), and arranged for scanning the object (9) during conveyance at the scanning position (30), a labelling device (4) arranged along the path (26) at a labelling position (40) downstream the scanning position (30), and arranged to compose a label based on the object (9) scanned by the scanning device (3), and to affix the label during conveyance on the object (9) based on the scanned object (9) present on the tray (2).