Variable Radius Container Handling for Labeling Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container labeling systems are limited by the need for laborious adaptation of container feed and discharge to labeling units, restricted labeling options due to fixed circular paths, and difficulties in applying large-format labels, as they require complex adjustments and fixed relative speeds.
Innovation Solution
A container handling device with a rotatably drivable container receiving device that can be positioned on non-circular orbits, allowing independent radial and circumferential control, enabling flexible container positioning and movement paths, including elliptical or linear paths, to improve labeling and coating processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If containers are guided on a predetermined circular path with constant radius, then the labeling process can be standardized, but the container feed and discharge must be laboriously adapted to the labeling unit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the container holder's radius variable instead of fixed. The container holder can change its radial position dynamically, allowing the circular division to be adjusted without mechanical adaptation elements. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining standardization while eliminating the need for complex adaptation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the container holder's radius from constant to variable. By allowing the radius to change, the system can adapt to different labeling requirements and container configurations without requiring additional adaptation elements, thus resolving the contradiction between standardization and device complexity.
2Device complexity
If a constant circular division is used, then the labeling carousel structure is simplified, but adjustment of circular division is only possible with great effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the circular division adjustable by allowing the container holder to change its radial position dynamically. This enables the system to adapt to different labeling tasks while maintaining a relatively simple carousel structure, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If containers move on a fixed circular path, then the labeling device can be fixedly installed, but the time window for labeling is limited and large format labels cannot be applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the container holder to vary its radial position, which changes the container's speed relative to the fixed labeling device. This creates variable time windows for labeling, enabling large format labels to be applied while maintaining fixed installation of the labeling device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the container holder's radius to allow variable-speed labeling. By adjusting the radius, the system can slow down containers during large format label application, increasing the effective labeling time window without requiring mobile labeling equipment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the container holder radius is variable, then flexible positioning is achieved, but the guidance system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves flexible positioning with minimal additional complexity by designing the container holder to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the support structure and the variable-radius mechanism. This universal design resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The container handling device (1) has a container holding unit (4), which is rotatably drivable around a rotating axis (DA1), for rotatably guiding a container (6). The container handling device is supported at a carrier by a coupling unit actuated in controlled manner, such that the rotating axis is moved radially relative to the carrier as well as relative to peripheral position. The carrier runs around another rotating axis, where former rotating axis orbit is designed in circular arc shape. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) a labeling carrousel; (2) a labeling machine; (3) a container machining center; and (4) a method for coating peripheral surface area of a container.