Tape Printing Apparatus Label Non-Label Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printing apparatuses do not effectively visualize the relationship between printing labels and the materials they are affixed to, making it difficult for users to clearly associate and use multiple labels with their corresponding adherends or contents.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a conveying and printing system that includes a tape with segmented label and non-label portions, where data from a database is used to control the printing of labels and non-labels, allowing for clear visual association between the labels and their corresponding materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional printing apparatus prints only on label portions, then printing function is simple, but relationship between label and relevant material cannot be visually represented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the label portion and non-label portion printing into a single integrated printing operation. The printing apparatus prints on both the label portion (first sheet) and the non-label portion (second sheet) simultaneously, combining them into one cohesive printing system that preserves the relationship information without requiring separate printing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the printing function from a single-dimension approach (only label portion) to a multi-dimensional approach by utilizing both the label portion and the non-label portion. This dimensional expansion allows relationship information to be displayed on the non-label portion while maintaining the original label printing function.
2Ease of operation
If relationship information is printed on non-label portion, then usability is improved, but printing control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The printing apparatus performs preliminary actions by acquiring both first data (for label portion) and second data (for non-label portion) from the database before the actual printing process. This preliminary data acquisition and preparation simplifies the subsequent printing control by having all necessary information ready in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the printing control into distinct components: first data processing for the label portion and second data processing for the non-label portion. This segmentation allows each portion to be controlled independently with appropriate data, reducing overall control complexity while improving usability.
3Loss of information
If multiple data sets are printed on separate portions, then information completeness is improved, but data management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal database structure that serves multiple functions: storing first data for label portions, storing second data for non-label portions, and providing both data types through a single data acquisition interface. This multi-functional database design improves information completeness while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate data management systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus includes a conveying portion, a printing portion, and a controller. The controller controls the conveying portion and the printing portion based on first data and second data. The controller is configured to generate a first print label set and a second print label set. The first print label set includes first label portion on which printing is performed based on one piece of the first data and non-label portion on which printing is performed based on one piece of the second data adjacent to the first label portion. The second print label set includes second label portion on which printing is performed based on remaining one piece of the first data and non-label portion on which printing is performed based on remaining one piece of the second data adjacent to the second label portion.