Device, system and method for labeling three-dimensional objects
US6557898B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 13, 2001 |
| Grant date | May 6, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 13, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG09F3/10
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A device, system, and method for labeling three-dimensional objects. A sheet comprising at least one tag, each tag consisting of a thin piece of resilient, print-treated polyester, or other material, and a method of attaching the tag to a three-dimensional object, such as a glass or plastic vial, is described. The tag identifies each individual object, and permits transfer of the object throughout a series of analytical processes without losing object identity. The tag is marked by offset printing, laser engraving, or another marking process such that the marking does not become unreadable during handling and testing. Labeling of individual objects is accomplished by inserting an object through an aperture in the tag resulting in the tag being attached to the vial. Removal of the vial from the sheet causes the tag to be separated from the sheet and to remain attached to the vial. Alternatively, a sheet holder, such as a rack, could be used to hold the sheet of tags during the labeling process. Labeling three-dimensional objects through the use of the device, system, and method of the present invention is faster, easier, and less expensive than current labeling methods. Additionally…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.