CN216270318U

CN216270318U - Labelling unit and labelling machine for applying labels to containers

Info

Publication number: CN216270318U
Application number: CN202121212955.5U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 约瑟夫·马耶尔; 迈克尔·鲍姆加特纳; 索伦·迈斯纳
Original assignee: Krones AG
Current assignee: Krones AG
Priority date: 2020-06-02
Filing date: 2021-06-01
Publication date: 2022-04-12
Anticipated expiration: 2031-06-01
Also published as: EP3919397A1; DE102020206858A1; EP3919397B1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a labelling unit and a labelling machine for applying labels to containers. A labelling unit (1) for applying labels to containers comprises an unwinding device (4) for a label strip (2), at least one cutting rotor (5) for cutting the label strip into individual labels (20a, 20b, 20c), and at least one vacuum transfer drum (6) for transferring the labels (20a, 20b, 20c) onto the containers (3), and in that the vacuum transfer drum (6) comprises a plurality of exchangeable change-over sections (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) on the outer contour surface of which labels can be transported, wherein the exchange sections (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) are arranged between slats (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) which are firmly connected to the vacuum transfer drum (6), and wherein the strips (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) are configured for cutting the cut surface of the label tape (2) in cooperation with the cutting roller (5).

Description

Labelling unit and labelling machine for applying labels to containers

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a labelling unit and a labelling machine for applying labels to containers.

Background

Labels are typically applied to containers or packages by a labelling unit in order to mark them according to their contents.

Such a labeling unit is described, for example, in DE 202005002793U 1. Here, the label tape is unwound from a roll and conveyed to a cutting mechanism via a tape buffer and various guide rollers. In the cutting mechanism, the label tape is transported on a vacuum roll and individual labels are cut out with a cutting rotor cooperating with the vacuum roll. The individual labels are then transferred from the vacuum roll to a vacuum transfer drum where they are applied with a hot glue applicator mechanism at the beginning and end of the label and placed on the container. In this case, the containers are guided through the labeling unit in the container receptacles, for example by means of a turret, and the labels are wound and adhered onto the container surfaces by rotating the containers.

In such labelling units, it occasionally happens that the labels are damaged when they are transferred from the cutting mechanism to the vacuum transfer drum, which may lead to quality fluctuations. Furthermore, when gluing with the aid of a hot-glue application device, in rare cases steam escape of the hot glue can occur, which can lead to damage to products that are sensitive to this.

Furthermore, labelling units using pre-sized labels are known.

The label strip here has, for example, a prefabricated strip of adhesive already on the rear side opposite the printing surface, for example at the beginning and end of the label. As a result of this, the label tape is already guided through the entire labeling unit with glue.

In all known labeling units, problems, quality fluctuations and disturbances can arise in the labeling process in an unfavorable manner during product changes and/or label format changes, which in some cases can even lead to a stoppage of the labeling unit and thus to a stoppage of production.

For example, it is possible that glue from a label tape or from individual labels of different formats accumulates on different parts of the labelling unit (e.g. rollers or drums), which can lead to malfunctions.

In addition, the glue may be scraped off, for example in a cutting mechanism, which then reduces the quality of the subsequent labeling.

For example, wear of the non-stick coating on the rollers or drums due to the high pressure applied to hold and transport the labels and to pull or draw them into a certain predetermined spacing (Teilung) can cause disturbances in the labeling unit, such as slippage of the label tape, jamming of the label tape, tearing of the label tape, etc.

The label is pulled or drawn to a defined predetermined spacing, which is understood to mean that the label is placed at a specific predetermined spacing between two successive labels, which is determined, for example, by the distance between two containers to be labeled.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

The object of the present invention is therefore to improve labeling units or labeling machines, in particular with regard to the efficiency, stability and susceptibility to interference of the labeling units or labeling machines, with regard to the possibility of optimizing the use of the labeling units or labeling machines and with regard to the quality and accuracy of the labeling units or labeling machines.

According to the utility model, this is achieved by the labeling unit according to the utility model and the labeling machine according to the utility model.

For example, the labelling unit for applying labels onto containers described herein may comprise at least one unwinding device for the label tape, at least one cutting rotor for cutting the label tape into individual labels and at least one vacuum transfer drum for transferring the labels onto the containers.

The exemplary vacuum transfer drum described herein may include a plurality of replaceable replacement sections, the labels of which may be transported on the outer contoured surface. Thus, a vacuum transfer drum may be understood as a segmented drum.

The replacement section can be arranged between a strip which is firmly connected to the vacuum transfer drum, wherein the strip can be designed to cut off the cutting surface of the label strip in cooperation with the cutting roller.

Thus, the strip may for example act as a counter element when the cutting rotor cuts, i.e. the strip may come into direct contact with the cutting rotor when cutting the label tape or labels.

The slats can extend over the entire height of the vacuum transfer cylinder and be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vacuum transfer cylinder.

The slats may be configured to have flat, convex or concave facing or outer faces which cooperate with the cutting rotor when cutting. The opposite or outer face or contoured face of the slats may be directed radially outwardly on the vacuum transfer drum.

The labelling unit described herein has a number of advantages. Instead of cutting the label strip into individual labels in a separate cutting mechanism, the cutting can be performed directly on a vacuum transfer drum, which can then transfer and place the labels directly and immediately onto the containers.

By transferring to the container immediately after cutting, the transport path of the cut labels can be kept as short as possible and the transfer of labels to other rollers or drums can be eliminated.

Thus, for example, malfunctions when transferring labels between the cutting mechanism and the vacuum transfer drum can be avoided.

The strip can be designed for cutting off the cutting face of the label strip in cooperation with the cutting rotor and can be embodied, for example, in the form of a hard metal strip, which enables, in particular, precise cutting of the label strip or labels in order to provide individual labels of high quality. In particular, the hard metal strip may be implemented with hardened steel in order to improve the cutting accuracy and reduce material wear.

The exemplary blade, which can be designed for cutting off the cutting surface of the label tape in cooperation with the cutting rotor, can be connected directly or indirectly via a possible exemplary holding element firmly to the vacuum transfer drum. For example, the possible retaining elements can be an integral component of the vacuum transfer cylinder. For example, the holding element can be firmly connected to the internal core or the internal carrier or the skeleton-like internal structure of the vacuum transfer cylinder or can be an integral component of the exemplary core of the vacuum transfer cylinder. Such possible exemplary internal core structures of the vacuum transfer drums may also include cavities to accommodate components for supplying negative pressure or compressed air to the vacuum transfer drums or to accommodate other structural components (e.g., moving machinery).

A firm or rigid connection is to be understood here to mean, in particular, a screw connection, a clamp connection, an adhesive connection, or the like.

The holding element can, for example, have a slot-like groove or recess, which can be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vacuum transfer drum, for accommodating a blade which can serve as a cutting surface for cutting the label tape in cooperation with the cutting rotor.

The holding element can be designed, in particular, as a frame clamp in a material-saving manner.

The outer contour surface of the holding element can have openings, in particular vacuum openings, through which a vacuum can be applied. For example, in the case where the strip can be used as a spacer or counter surface during the cutting process when the cutting rotor cuts, the label tape can thus be better fixed to the strip and can be cut more precisely without slipping, so that a better quality of the labels in terms of its geometry can be ensured.

In this case, for example, at least a part of the opening or bore of the outer contour surface of the holding element can also be designed to receive a fastening means, such as a screw or a pin, in order to be able to fasten, in particular, the strip serving as a cutting surface to/in the holding element.

The vacuum transfer drum may be configured to rotate. The vacuum transfer drum may be particularly configured for transferring labels directly onto containers after cutting.

The vacuum transfer drum or the replacement section of the vacuum transfer drum may be equipped with vacuum openings in order to aspirate the labels for transport.

The vacuum transfer drum can be connected to a vacuum pump for supplying a vacuum in order to selectively and specifically apply a negative pressure to some or all of the vacuum openings of the vacuum transfer drum that are located on the outside, i.e., for example, not only to the openings on the outer contour surface of the exchange section but also to possible openings of the holding element.

The exchange section of the vacuum transfer drum can have a suction strip, which can divide the outer contour surface of the exchange section into at least two regions.

In this case, the suction plate can likewise have vacuum openings, via which a negative pressure can be selectively and selectively applied. To this end, the vacuum opening can be connected to the exemplary vacuum pump of the vacuum transfer cylinder. Thus, a suction slat may be understood as a vacuum slat or a vacuum suction slat.

The exemplary suction strip(s) can be used in particular for receiving a label strip or label and for transferring/applying the label strip or label to an object to be labeled or a container to be labeled.

In particular, the suction slats of the exchange section of the vacuum transfer drum may be respectively arranged in such a way that they can divide the outer contour surface of the exchange section into a first region and a second region, the first region having a radially outer peripheral arc length corresponding to the length of a label and the second region having a radially outer peripheral arc length corresponding to a predetermined spacing between two labels to be placed on two different containers.

The suction bar can be understood as a start suction bar which sucks the start of the label tape or the start of the label. In other words, the suction strips can be assigned to the start region of the label or the start region of the label strip.

A strip serving as a cutting surface or a strip serving as a cutting surface and/or its holding element can be assigned to the end region of the label.

The exemplary geometry and division of the change-over sections of the vacuum transfer drum, which are delimited by, for example, a strip serving as a cutting surface or a holding element of a strip serving as a cutting surface, respectively, and where a suction strip divides the change-over section into at least two regions, can in particular facilitate the taking of labels into the desired intervals or the pulling or pulling into the desired intervals.

As mentioned, pulling or drawing the label to the desired spacing may be understood as bringing the label to a certain predetermined distance between two successive labels, which is determined, for example, by the distance between two containers to be labeled.

When the labels are pulled or pulled on the vacuum transfer drum, the cut labels slide with the non-glued side on the vacuum transfer drum subjected to the underpressure, or the vacuum transfer drum can be rotated away under the labels held stationary, for example by the cutting rotor, until the desired spacing is reached. For example, when receiving labels from the vacuum transfer drum, an additional switchable roller can be selectively pressed against the label tape transport roller in order to temporarily hold the labels or label tape stationary, thereby rotating the vacuum transfer drum under the labels or under the label tape by a desired spacing distance.

In order to make the sliding of the label or label strip easier, the change section of the vacuum transfer drum can be provided with a non-stick coating.

An exemplary suction slat may have at least one outer contour surface with an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the replacement section and/or the outer diameter of the holding element and/or the outer diameter of the slat configured as a cutting surface.

In particular, exemplary suction slats may have elevations or humps or elevations or bulges, for example stepped or stepped bulges.

This may make it easier, for example, to label, in particular, the retraction area of the container.

A retraction region of the container is to be understood here to mean, in particular, an outer container region of the container which has a smaller outer diameter than an adjacent outer region of the container.

The exemplary suction slats of the exemplary exchange section of the vacuum transfer drum described herein can be embodied to be movable or movable, and in particular to be configured for carrying out a radial movement, or to be switched or moved between different radial working positions or working positions.

Thus, an exemplary suction slat may have a first radial working orientation for receiving and transferring labels and a second radial working orientation, wherein the radius of the second radial working orientation may be smaller than the radius of the first radial working orientation. The exemplary second radial working orientation described may be understood as an avoidance orientation in order to avoid, for example, collision of the suction slats with parts of the cutting rotor, parts of the gluing device or other components of the labeling unit. The first radial working orientation can be understood and defined, for example, as the radial initial orientation of the suction plate strips.

The exemplary possible radial movements described of the suction slats may, for example, comprise a return or retraction of the suction slats into radial positions in which the radial distance of the outer contour surface(s) of the suction slats from the longitudinal axis of the vacuum transfer drum is smaller than, equal to or only slightly larger than, for example, the radial distance of the outer contour surface of the replacement section from the longitudinal axis of the vacuum transfer drum, wherein, for example, smaller or larger may be understood as a relative distance range of at most 5mm or at most 10mm or more.

Likewise, exemplary possible radial movements of the suction strip may also include moving or pushing out the suction strip into radial positions in which the outer contour surface(s) of the suction strip are at a greater radial distance from the longitudinal axis of the vacuum transfer drum than the outer contour surface of the replacement section, wherein, for example, a relative distance range is greater than that which can be understood as being at most 2mm or at most 10mm or more. In this context, the removal or ejection of the suction plate is to be understood in particular as meaning that the suction plate can be moved from the exemplary retracted position to the exemplary initial position.

The exemplary possible removal of the suction slats or the exemplary radial initial positioning described above makes it possible to easily label the exemplary retraction regions of the containers, since a better contact of the suction slats with the containers to be labeled or of the labels transported by the suction slats with the containers to be labeled can be achieved.

As already mentioned, the exemplary possible back-movement of the suction bars can be used, in particular, to prevent possible collisions with other components in a defined working area of the labeling unit, for example with the cutting rotor and/or with possible gluing components.

In this case, the exemplary labeling unit may comprise, for example, at least one control cam mechanism or sliding mechanism or switching mechanism for controlling the movement of the suction slats, for example a switching cam or control cam cooperating with a switching roller.

An exemplary exchange section of the labeling unit can cover the entire outer diameter of the vacuum transfer cylinder with its outer contour surface circumferentially, wherein the outer diameter of the vacuum transfer cylinder can be, for example, in the size range of approximately 400mm to 600mm, for example approximately 500 mm.

The full coverage makes it easier to pull or drag the label or label strip on the outer contour surface of the vacuum transfer drum, so that the label can be brought into the position and position for labeling more easily.

By an exemplary exchange section fully covering the outer diameter of the vacuum transfer cylinder or the outer contour surface of the vacuum transfer cylinder it is understood that the surface comprising the outer contour surface of the exchange section together with the outer contour surface of the strip acting as a cutting surface and possibly the outer contour surface of the clamping portion of the strip completely or almost without gaps covers the outer contour surface of the vacuum transfer cylinder.

By way of example, the vacuum transfer cylinder may here comprise two, three, four, six or more replacement sections.

For example, in case of an even number of replacement sections, all replacement sections may have the same shape, e.g. a cake-like cut-out having a shape like a cake piece or having the same size, in particular having the same volume. However, in case of an odd number of replacement sections, the shape and/or size, in particular the volume, of the replacement sections may be different.

Depending on the division of the vacuum transfer drum into replacement sections, the vacuum transfer drum has a correspondingly different number of strips serving as cutting surfaces and, for example, a correspondingly different number of possible strip holders.

It is also possible to divide the vacuum transfer cylinder into another number of replacement sections.

Accordingly, the exemplary vacuum transfer drums described herein may be understood as segmented pulling, cutting and transfer drums.

By segmenting the vacuum transfer cylinder with the exemplary replacement segments described herein, the labeling machine set is particularly adapted to facilitate different label types and label formats and to simplify maintenance of the vacuum transfer cylinder. As a result, the downtime of the labeling unit or labeling machine can be reduced.

In particular, the changeover to a new label format can be effected, for example, independently of the vacuum transfer cylinder or independently of the basic structure of the vacuum transfer cylinder, since only the replacement section needs to be replaced.

In this case, the replacement of individual lighter and more manageable replacement segments can be achieved more simply and more quickly than in the case of conventional vacuum transfer drums, which are, for example, entirely and heavier.

The segmented design of the vacuum transfer drum described here also makes it possible to simplify the repair of damaged vacuum transfer drum components, since, for example, defective replacement segments can be replaced quickly and easily.

The segmented construction also saves weight and installation space. The easy removal possibility of the replacement section may also facilitate access to the interior of the vacuum transfer drum and/or to other parts of the labeling unit or of the labeling machine, for example for maintenance work.

The cutting rotor of an exemplary labeling unit may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. The cutting rotor may comprise at least one blade arranged on the circumference, which may cooperate with a strip of the vacuum transfer cylinder configured as a cutting surface for cutting.

Exemplary blade edges may each be formed on a radially extending arm of the cutting rotor. The cutting rotor may comprise two arms with one blade each, the blades being outwardly oriented in a direction opposite to the axis of rotation towards the cutting rotor.

For driving, the cutting rotor can be connected to a direct drive in order to adjust the rotational position and/or the rotational speed of the cutting rotor. The rotary movement of the cutting rotor can thereby be adjusted independently of the vacuum transfer drum, so that the knife edge is exactly aligned in position and/or speed with the web of the vacuum transfer drum designed as a cutting surface and/or is moved at the web speed of the label web.

This results in a particularly precise cutting of the label strip into individual labels. A direct drive may mean that the drive is mechanically independent of the drive of the vacuum transfer cylinder.

The vacuum transfer drum may be connected to a direct drive for driving in order to adjust the rotational positioning and/or rotational speed of the vacuum transfer drum. It is thereby possible to cut different label lengths on the vacuum transport cylinder and to adjust the rotary movement of the vacuum transport cylinder accordingly. A direct drive may mean that the drive is mechanically independent of the cutting rotor and/or the drive roller for transporting the label tape.

The direct drive of the cutting rotor and/or of the vacuum transfer drum may be a servomotor comprising a rotary encoder. By configuring the direct drive as a servomotor, the direct drive can be controlled accurately with high torque. A servomotor may mean that this is a brushless electric motor, the drive shaft of which is coupled with a rotary encoder. The rotary encoder may be configured to detect the rotational position and/or rotational speed of the servo motor.

The exemplary labeling unit may further comprise, for example, an adjusting unit, which may be configured for adjusting the rotational position and/or the rotational speed of the cutting rotor and/or of the vacuum transfer drum.

Furthermore, the exemplary adjustment unit may be configured for adjusting possible movements of the exemplary suction slats.

For example, the adjusting unit may be configured in particular for radially retracting the exemplary suction slats within a predetermined range of rotational positioning of the vacuum transfer drum, for example in the area in the surroundings of the cutting rotor and/or in the surroundings of a possible gluing device.

The exemplary adjusting unit can also adjust and monitor, in particular, a possible control cam which can alternatively or additionally control the radial stroke of the suction plate and, for example, selectively bring the control cam into contact with a possible control roller of the suction plate.

The exemplary control unit is understood to mean, in particular, a digital computer-controlled control unit or digital control electronics.

The exemplary labelling units are described herein with particular reference to pre-glued labels, but could in principle also be used for non-pre-glued labels. Particularly consistent label quality is achieved by precise cutting and subsequent immediate transfer of individual labels to containers. In the processing of non-pre-glued labels, a gluing unit for applying hot or cold glue to the labels may be arranged on the vacuum transfer drum.

In order to be able to optionally use non-pre-glued labels, the exemplary labeling unit may have a movable gluing device for gluing the labels on the vacuum transfer cylinder, which can selectively or as required glue the labels on the vacuum transfer cylinder and can for this purpose, for example, be moved or moved accordingly.

The mentioned possible exemplary adjusting units may also be configured for controlling the movement of possible gluing devices or possible gluing processes.

The labeling unit may, for example, be arranged in a beverage processing facility. The labeling unit may be arranged downstream of a filling installation for filling the containers with the product.

For example, the container may be configured to contain a beverage, hygiene product, paste, chemical product, biological product, and/or pharmaceutical product. The container may be, for example, a plastic bottle, a glass bottle, a tube and/or a can.

The label may for example be a label to which an adhesive (e.g. glue) is applied. The label may be a form made of paper or plastic, which comprises, inter alia, a print identifying, describing and/or advertising the contents of the container. The label strip may be pre-glued. The pre-glue may mean that the label tape is provided with printing on one side and at least partly with a layer of glue on the other side. The glue layer may be configured to have a glue side corresponding to the printing. The label strip may be provided with two strips of glue per label, applied at the beginning and end of the label. The label tape may be pre-glued wound onto a roll in an unwinding device.

An exemplary labeling machine may include a transporter for transporting containers having a container receptacle and a labeling assembly, which may have the features described herein, alone or in any combination.

The labelling machine may be arranged in a beverage processing facility. The labeling machine may, for example, be arranged downstream of a filling device for filling the containers with the product.

The labeling machine is described here in particular in connection with pre-glued labels, but can in principle also be used for non-pre-glued labels.

The conveyor may comprise a linear conveyor and/or a turret. The carrier may be configured with a container receptacle for guiding the containers through the labeling unit. The container receptacle may be configured to rotate, optionally so that the container rotates through the labeling unit when the label is applied.

Drawings

Further exemplary aspects of the utility model are set forth below with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings. Wherein:

fig. 1 shows an exemplary labeling unit in a schematic top view;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary vacuum transfer drum in a first view;

FIG. 3a illustrates an exemplary vacuum transfer drum in a second view;

fig. 3b shows an exemplary exchange section in a first view;

FIG. 3c shows an exemplary replacement section in a second view;

FIG. 4a shows an exemplary suction slat;

fig. 4b shows an exemplary exchange section with a container.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows, by way of example and schematically, a top view of a possible labelling group 1, which labelling group 1 may have some or all of the previously described components and features.

The exemplary label strip 2 can have label print on its front side, which can be arranged repeatedly one after the other for each

label

20a, 20b, 20 c. In correspondence with the label print, a strip of glue can be applied on the back of the label strip, for example at the beginning and end of the label. The label tape can be rolled up and supplied on an exemplary label tape storage roll 16a, already prefabricated with printing and adhesive tape.

Thus, the exemplary pre-glued label tape 2 can be unwound from the label tape storage roll 16a, transported to the vacuum transfer drum 6 and cut there into

individual labels

20a, 20b, 20c by means of the cutting rotor 5.

Then, during further transport, the

respective label

20a, 20b, 20c can be sucked by the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 and applied by the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 onto the container 3, for example by means of a pre-glued glue strip applied to the container 3.

An exemplary straight vacuum transfer drum 6 with a rounded bottom surface comprises a plurality of replaceable change-out

sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d on the outer contoured surface of which labels 20a, 20b, 20c can be transported.

The illustrated uniform division or segmentation of the vacuum conveying cylinder 6 into four

exchangeable exchange segments

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d of equal size is merely an exemplary further division, for example with a further number of exchange segments and/or with differently dimensioned exchange segments being possible.

The

exemplary replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d are exemplary arranged between

slats

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d which are firmly connected to the vacuum transfer cylinder 6.

The

strips

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d can be configured for cutting off the cutting face of the label tape 2 in cooperation with the exemplary cutting rotor 5 and are configured, for example, as hard metal strips.

In the example shown, label tape 2 is cut by cutting rotor 5, for example by cooperating with strip 8a as counter element and cutting surface on vacuum transfer drum 6, and an exemplary label 20a is produced.

Label tape 2 or labels can be sucked onto vacuum transfer drum 6 and sucked onto it or at

replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d and sucked onto it via

exemplary suction strips

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d of

replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, which are provided with openings, in particular vacuum openings, on which a negative pressure can be applied.

The

exchange sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d can also have corresponding vacuum openings on their outer contour surface for selective and targeted application of underpressure for the purpose of holding and holding the labels for transport.

By means of an exemplary targeted coordination of the movements of the cutting rotor 5 and/or the transport roller(s) 12 and the vacuum transfer drum 6, the cut labels 20a, 20b, 20c can be brought, pulled or pulled to the desired spacing 19, i.e. the desired

distance

19a, 19b between two successive labels.

For example, it is conceivable that after the labels 20a have been cut from the label tape 2 on the strip 8a of the change section 6a, the label tape 2 is held stationary until the vacuum transport cylinder 6 continues to rotate under the labels 2 by a rotation angle corresponding to the desired

spacing

19a, 19b, in order then to enable the labels to be sucked again by the suction strip 7d of the next change section 6d onto the vacuum transport cylinder 6 and onto this next change section 6d, so that the labels can be cut from the label tape 2 on the strip 8d of the next change section 6 d.

To this end, the

suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d may be arranged such that they divide the outer contour surface of the

respective replacement section

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d into at least two regions, for example, as shown on the replacement section 6a, into a first region 6a1 and a second region 6a2, the first region having a radially outer circumferential arc length corresponding to the length of the label 20a and the second region having a radially outer circumferential arc length corresponding to the

predetermined separation distance

19a, 19b between two

labels

20a, 20b which should be placed on two different containers.

Such an exemplary suction slat arrangement may, among other things, improve the accuracy of applying labels to different containers. In addition, the simple replaceability of the

replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d makes it easier to adapt the labeling unit for other label types or other label formats or other container distances, since, for example, other replacement sections with other suction slat arrangements can be inserted into the labeling unit quickly and easily, which can be optimized for other respective label types or label formats or other container distances.

The label can slide on the outer contour of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 or on the outer contour of the

changeover portions

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d on the side of the label facing the vacuum transfer cylinder 6, which can be uncoated and provided with printing.

Also exemplary shown are possible retaining

elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d of the

strips

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d acting as cutting surfaces.

The holding

elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d can be firmly connected here to the vacuum feed cylinder 6 or to the core or carrier 11 of the vacuum feed cylinder.

As already mentioned, the holding

elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d can also have outer contour surfaces with openings, through which a vacuum can be applied, in order to pull the label strip onto the

webs

8a, 8b and temporarily fix it, for example during the cutting process, so that a more precise cutting process can be achieved.

The core or carrier 11 of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 can be understood as a skeleton of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6.

The illustrated radial configuration of the core or carrier 11 of the vacuum transfer drum 6 about the axis of rotation 22 is merely exemplary.

Exemplary suction strips 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d may have at least one outer contour surface with an outer diameter which may be larger than the outer diameter of the replacement section and/or may be larger than the outer diameter of the holding element and/or may be larger than the outer diameter of the

strips

8a, 8b, 8c, 8 d.

In particular, exemplary suction slats may have elevations or humps or elevations or bulges, for example stepped or stepped bulges. However, this is not shown in fig. 1 for clarity.

The

exemplary suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d of the exemplary replacement section of the vacuum transfer drum 6 described here can be embodied so as to be movable or displaceable and are in particular configured such that a radial movement relative to the rotational axis 22 of the vacuum transfer drum 6 can be implemented.

The described exemplary possible radial movements of the suction strips 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d may comprise, for example, a back-up or retraction of the suction strips into radial positions in which the radial distance of the outer contour surface(s) of the suction strips from the longitudinal axis or axis of rotation 22 of the vacuum transfer drum 6 is smaller, equal or only slightly larger than, for example, the radial distance of the outer contour surface of the

replacement section

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d from the longitudinal axis or axis of rotation 22 of the vacuum transfer drum 6.

As described above, the suction strips 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d can thus be moved back or retracted into a radially retracted position.

An exemplary possible radial movement of the suction plate strip may also comprise moving or pushing out the suction plate strip into radial positions in which the outer profile surface(s) of the

suction plate strip

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d are at a greater radial distance from the longitudinal axis or axis of rotation 22 of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 than, for example, the outer profile surface of the

replacement section

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d is at a greater radial distance from the longitudinal axis or axis of rotation 22 of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6.

As already mentioned above, the suction strips 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d can thus have a radial initial positioning, and the removal or pushing out of the suction strips can be understood as, for example, moving the suction strips 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d from the radial escape positioning into the radial initial positioning.

The exemplary possible removal or possible radial initial positioning of the

suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d makes it possible to facilitate the labeling of the containers, in particular of the exemplary retraction regions of the containers, since a better contact of the suction slats with the containers or of the labels transported by the suction slats with the containers can be achieved.

Furthermore, the exemplary return movement of the suction bars into the evasive position can be used in particular to prevent possible collisions with other components in a specific working area of the labeling unit, for example with the cutting rotor and/or with possible gluing means (not shown).

In the example shown, in the region marked by the dashed arrow 21, i.e. in the exemplary angular range of the rotational positioning of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6, the

suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d can be moved back in such a way that collisions with the transport rollers or transport rollers 12 and/or with the cutting rotor 5 can be prevented. Thus, the

suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d may be in the exemplary radial evasive position in this region 21 and outside the region 21, for example in the exemplary radial initial position.

The exemplary regulating unit 18 of the labeling unit may be configured to control the rotational positioning and/or the rotational speed of the cutting rotor 5 and/or the vacuum transfer drum 6 and optionally the possible exemplary movements of the

suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7 d.

The exemplary adjusting unit 18 can likewise be configured to selectively and specifically apply a vacuum or pressure to the openings or vacuum openings in the outer contour surfaces of the

replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d and/or the openings or vacuum openings in the outer contour surfaces of the suction strips 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d and/or the openings or vacuum openings in the outer contour surfaces of the holding

elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d for controlling and adjusting.

An exemplary guidance or an exemplary travel of the label tape 2 within the labeling unit 1 can be carried out as follows.

Via the exemplary unwinding device 4, the label tape 2 is first unwound from the label tape storage roll 16a and fed to the splicing device 17. There, if the label is used up, its end is stuck to the beginning of the further label tape of the second label tape storage roll 16b, thereby avoiding production interruptions when changing rolls.

Label tape 2 may then be passed through a possible label tape buffer 15, for example to compensate for fluctuations in unwinding of label tape 2. Via a possible guide 14 and two

exemplary rollers

13 and 12, label tape 2 can then be transported to vacuum transfer cylinder 6, so that, for example, the side provided with the print is directed towards the outer contour of vacuum transfer cylinder 6, while the side of label tape 2 for fastening on container 3 is directed outwards.

Thereafter, as described above, the exemplary cutting process of the label tape 2 is performed on one of the

strips

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6, and the cut labels 20a, 20b, 20c are transported on the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 toward the containers 3 to be labeled.

There, it is possible, for example, to press the first strip of glue at the beginning of the label first onto the container 3 and to rotate the container for rotating the label 20c for winding around its longitudinal container axis until the end of the label slightly (for example 5mm) overlaps the beginning of the label. The label end can be adhered to the outside of the label start using an exemplary second strip of glue at the label end.

Instead of a pre-glued label strip or label, a label strip or label that is not pre-glued may also be used, as described above. For this purpose, labelling unit 1 may optionally have an adhesive station (not shown) which may apply adhesive to the label strip or label, for example before or after the cutting process on vacuum transfer cylinder 6.

It can also be seen in fig. 1 that all the above-mentioned elements (with the exception of the container 3) can be arranged on the machine frame 10 and can be moved, for example, in a modular manner relative to a turret or other apparatus.

It should also be mentioned that the cutting rotor 5 can be connected to a direct drive (not shown here), which can precisely adjust the rotational position and the rotational speed of the cutting rotor 5 about its rotational axis.

During the cutting process it is thereby ensured that the cutting edges of the cutting rotor 5 hit the slats of the vacuum transfer cylinder at a predefined location and that they have the same speed with respect to each other.

This speed can correspond to the tape speed of the label tape 2. Whereby a more accurate cut can be ensured.

In addition, the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 can also be connected to a direct drive (not shown here) which is designed to adjust the rotational position and rotational speed of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6.

The rotary movement of the vacuum transfer drum 6 can thus be adapted, for example, to the label length, the container circumference and the cycle time of a conveyor carousel, not shown here. The direct drives of the cutting rotor 5 and of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 can be configured as servomotors.

The exemplary regulating unit 18 mentioned here can be designed as digital regulating electronics, which can evaluate the positioning signals from the direct drives of the cutting rotor 5 and of the vacuum transport cylinder 6 and set the current supply of the direct drives accordingly, so that the vacuum transport cylinder 6 and the cutting rotor 5 perform the required rotational movement.

In addition, the control unit 9 can be connected to an electronic product management database in order to be able to call out control parameters for the direct drive there, depending on the container type of the container 3.

For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the arrows in fig. 1 without reference numerals indicate the direction of transport and travel of the label tape or labels and the direction of rotation of the vacuum drum 5, container 3 and label tape storage rolls 16a, 16 b.

Fig. 2 shows, in a schematic three-dimensional view, an example of a part of the labeling unit 1 of fig. 1, comprising a vacuum transfer cylinder 6 with a rotary shaft 22, a cutting rotor 5 and a transport roller 12 and that part 27 of the machine frame 11 on which the labeling unit is mounted.

The label strip or individual labels are not shown for clarity.

Exemplary replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d can be seen, which are arranged between exemplary holding

elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, and

slats

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, which are received by the holding

elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, can be seen, which can serve as cutting surfaces for cutting the label tape on the vacuum transfer drum 6.

It can also be seen that the

exemplary retaining elements

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d can be connected with the exemplary core 11 of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6.

Exemplary suction slats

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d of the

replacement sections

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d can also be seen.

The exemplary perspective view in fig. 2 also shows exemplary openings or

exemplary vacuum openings

24, 25, 26 in the outer contour surfaces of the replacement section, of the suction strip and of the holding element.

For perspective reasons, only the openings 26 in the

replacement sections

6a and 6b, as well as the openings 24 in the holding element 9b and the openings 25 in the suction strips 7a and 7b can be seen here.

As mentioned above, a part of the opening or bore 24 of the holding

element

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d can be configured for receiving a fastening means, for example a screw or a pin, so that the

strip

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d serving as a cutting surface can be fixed.

It can also be seen that after the replacement of the

segments

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, i.e. in the interior of the vacuum transfer cylinder 6, i.e. between the spindle 22 or the skeleton 11 and the

replacement segments

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, the vacuum transfer cylinder 6 has

cavities

28a, 28b, 28c, 28d, which can be used, for example, in particular for the arrangement of vacuum or compressed air channels for supplying the

openings

24, 25, 26 with underpressure or compressed air.

Likewise, these

exemplary cavities

28a, 28b, 28c, 28d may, for example, provide a void for accommodating movement and control mechanisms, such as for example for the suction slats, such as a control cam mechanism.

The

cavities

28a, 28b, 28c, 28d may be in communication with each other and form a common cavity 28.

Fig. 3a shows the vacuum cylinder 6 of fig. 2 or 1, by way of example, from a different perspective (rotated clockwise by approximately 180 °), and with a replacement section removed from the vacuum cylinder 6.

For better orientation and clarity, reference numerals are given to the frame part 27 of the labeling unit 1, the cutting rotor 5, the transport roller 12, the rotary shaft 22 of the vacuum cylinder 6, the skeleton 11 of the vacuum cylinder 6, the

exchange sections

6a, 6b and 6d, the suction bar 7b, the

bars

8c, 8d and the holding

elements

9c, 9 d.

The missing or removed replacement section 6c is shown in two different views in fig. 3b and 3 c.

By exemplary removal of the replacement section 6c, an exemplary view of the interior of the vacuum cylinder 6 is provided. It can be seen, for example, that the core or skeleton or internal carrier 11 of the vacuum cylinder 6 comprises a spindle 22 which may have a dumbbell-like shape, and that the holding elements of the slats (as can be seen, for example, from the holding elements 9d) may have a frame 35 for establishing a secure connection with the internal carrier 11 of the vacuum cylinder 6.

It can also be seen that the interior of the vacuum cylinder 6 can essentially have a cavity 28 or a plurality of cavities, wherein reference numeral 28c denotes an exemplary cavity between the spindle 22 and the missing replacement section 6 c.

The reference numerals 30b1, 30b2 denote exemplary fastening elements, such as screw connections, with which the replacement section 6b can be connected to the vacuum cylinder 6 or to the carrier 11 inside the vacuum cylinder 6.

Fig. 3b shows a perspective front view of an exemplary replacement section 6c with suction strips 7c removed from the vacuum drum 6. The suction panel 7 may divide the outer contour surface of the replacement section 6c into a first region 6c1 and a second region 6c2, the first region 6c1 may have a radially outer circumferential arc length corresponding to the length of a label, and the second region 6c2 may have a radially outer circumferential arc length corresponding to a predetermined separation distance between two labels arranged on two different containers.

The height 29 of the replacement section 6c can be equal to or greater than the height of the container to be labeled and can be, for example, between 100mm and 300 mm.

Reference numeral 26 exemplarily indicates an opening in the outer contour surface of the replacement section 6c, an exemplary vacuum opening, and reference numerals 30c1, 30c2 indicate exemplary fastening elements, such as screw elements, with which the replacement section 6c can be securely connected with the vacuum cylinder 6 or with the inner carrier 11 of the vacuum cylinder 6.

Fig. 3c shows an exemplary perspective rear view of the exchange section 6c, wherein exemplary rod-shaped fastening elements, such as screw-on elements 30c1, 30c2, and a plurality of channels or

hoses

32, 33 for supplying vacuum or compressed air to the openings of the exchange section can be seen.

Not all channels or hoses are labeled here for clarity. For example, only one of the nine possible channels 32 is shown in the figures, for example.

In addition, exemplary possible centering elements 31c1, 31c2 are shown, for example centering pins, with which the replacement section 6c can be centered more easily when inserted into the vacuum cartridge 6.

In addition, reference numeral 34 denotes an exemplary control mechanism or an exemplary movement mechanism for controlling the movement of the suction slats 7c, in particular for controlling the radial movement of the suction slats 7 c.

Fig. 4a shows an exemplary suction slat 36 with an exemplary control mechanism or an associated exemplary movement mechanism or displacement mechanism 39 for controlling the movement of the suction slat 7c, in particular for controlling the radial movement 42 of the suction slat 7 c.

For example, the exemplary switching mechanism or movement mechanism 39 can comprise a control curve or switching cam 40 which cooperates with a switching roller 41, that is to say forms an exemplary control cam mechanism which enables a radial movement of the suction slats 36 for moving the suction slats 36 back or out, that is to say for moving or switching the suction slats between different radial working positions or working positions.

The suction plate strips of the replacement section can also be designed to be replaceable, so that, for example, in the case of a retrofit, for example in the case of a container or label type, only the suction plate strips are replaced, instead of the entire replacement section.

In other words, the suction slat 36 shown in fig. 4a can also be used with the replacement section described in the previous figures.

The exemplary suction plate 36 has an exemplary step or an exemplary projection 38, which divides the outer contour surface 37 of the suction plate 36 into at least two regions or two outer contour surface portions 37a, 37b, wherein the outer contour surface portion or outer contour surface 37b has a larger outer diameter than the outer diameters of the (not shown) replacement segments, of the holding elements and of the strip of the vacuum transfer cylinder (not shown) acting as a cutting surface.

The height 48 of the outer contour surface 37b may correspond to the height of the retraction area of the container to be labeled.

Fig. 4b shows in perspective and simplified form an exemplary relative positioning of an exemplary exchange section 45 of a vacuum transfer drum (not shown) relative to the container 43 to be labeled. The exemplary replacement section 45 has the exemplary suction slat 36 illustrated in fig. 4 a. The exemplary replacement section 45 or the exemplary suction slat 36 is fully compatible with the previously described replacement sections of the exemplary vacuum cylinder 6 of fig. 1, 2, 3a, 3b and 3 c.

The container 43 to be labeled has an exemplary retraction region 44, i.e., an outer face of the container 43 has a container region with a diameter that is smaller than an outer diameter of an adjacent or other outer region of the container 43, such as a bottom region 43 of the container, which has a larger outer diameter than the exemplary retraction region 44.

In an exemplary labeling process, the vacuum drum and container 44 on which the changeover section 45 may be present may be positioned such that the retracted container region 44 and the outer contoured surface 37b of the suction slat 36 may be at the same height.

In the example shown, the bottom 47 of the exchange section 45 is here located above the bottom 46 of the container 43. However, this configuration is merely exemplary. In particular, it is also possible, for example, for the bottom 47 of the exchange section 45 to be at the same height or in the same plane as the bottom 46 of the container 43.

For the sake of clarity, the labels are not shown on the replacement section in fig. 4 b.

For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that the vacuum transfer cylinder may have a cover, but the cover is not shown in the figures, so that the interior of the vacuum transfer cylinder can be seen.

It will be appreciated that the features of the vacuum transfer cylinder and its replacement section described by way of example are not limited to the particular combination described in the drawings, and that any other combination is possible.

List of reference numerals

Labelling machine set

2 Label tape, exemplary precoated Label tape

3 objects to be labelled, e.g. containers

4 unreeling device

5 cutting rotor

6 vacuum transfer Cartridge, exemplary segmented vacuum transfer Cartridge

6a, 6b, 6c, 6d replacement of segments

6a1, 6a2 exemplary regions of the outer contour surface of the replacement segment 6a

6c1, 6c2 exemplary regions of the outer contour surface of the replacement segment 6c

7a, 7b, 7c, 7d exemplary suction slats

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, exemplary hard metal strip

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d exemplary holding elements for receiving/clamping slats

Exemplary machine frame, exemplary housing of a labeling machine set 10

11 example core, example skeleton, example inner Carrier

12 exemplary delivery roll/delivery roll

13 exemplary delivery roll/delivery roll

14 exemplary guide part

15 exemplary tape tab buffer

16a, 16b exemplary Label tape storage volume

17 exemplary splicing apparatus

18 exemplary regulating Unit

19a, 19b, exemplary spacing, exemplary distance between two successive labels

20a, 20b, 20c, exemplary labels cut/separated from a label tape

21 exemplary range of rotational positioning of the vacuum transfer drum, exemplary angular range in which any part protruding radially from the vacuum transfer drum can be retracted to avoid collision

22 exemplary spindle of vacuum transfer canister

Exemplary three-dimensional view of a portion of a 23-labelling unit

24 one or more exemplary openings in the retaining element, one or more vacuum openings, exemplary holes for receiving fastening means

25 one or more exemplary openings, one or more exemplary vacuum openings in the suction slat

26 replace one or more exemplary openings, one or more exemplary vacuum openings in a segment

Exemplary part of a rack of a 27 labelling unit

28. 28a, 28b, exemplary cavities connectable to each other

28c、28d

29 exemplary height of replacement section

30c1, 30c2 exemplary fastening element, exemplary screw joint

31c1, 31c2 exemplary centering elements

32. 33 exemplary channels for supplying vacuum or compressed air to openings in the replacement section

34 exemplary control mechanism for controlling the movement of the suction slats 7c

35d exemplary frame of clamping element 9d

36 exemplary suction slat

37 exemplary outer contour surface of a suction slat

37a exemplary outer profile surface portion, exemplary outer profile surface of a suction slat

37b exemplary outer profile surface portion, outer profile surface of a suction slat

38 exemplary step, exemplary boss

39 exemplary moving or sliding or switching mechanisms, exemplary control cam mechanisms

40 exemplary switching cam, exemplary control Curve

41 exemplary switching roller

42 exemplary radial motion

43 Container

44 exemplary retracted Container region

45 exemplary replacement section

46 exemplary bottom of the Container

47 exemplary base of replacement section

48 exemplary height of the projection, exemplary height of the outer contour portion of the suction slat

49 exemplary height of the retracted container region.

Claims

1. Labelling unit (1) for applying labels onto containers (3), comprising at least one unwinding device (4) for a label tape (2), a cutting rotor (5) for cutting the label tape into individual labels (20a, 20b, 20c), and a vacuum transfer drum (6) for transferring the labels (20a, 20b, 20c) onto the containers,

it is characterized in that the preparation method is characterized in that,

the vacuum transfer drum (6) comprises a plurality of exchangeable change-over sections (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) on the outer contour faces of which the labels can be transported, wherein the change-over sections (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) are arranged between slats (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) fixedly connected with the vacuum transfer drum (6), and wherein the slats (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) are configured for cutting the cutting face of the label tape (2) in cooperation with the cutting rotor (5).

2. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 1, wherein said slats (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) are fixedly connected with said vacuum transfer cylinder (6) via retaining elements (9a, 9b, 9c, 9 d).

3. Labelling unit (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 2, wherein said holding elements (9a, 9b, 9c, 9d) are provided with an outer contoured surface with an opening (24) through which a negative pressure can be applied.

4. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein said change section (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) has a suction panel (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) which divides the outer contour of said change section into at least two regions (6a1, 6a2, 6c1, 6c 2).

5. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 4, wherein said suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) are respectively arranged so that they can divide the outer contour face of said exchange section (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) into a first region (6a1, 6c1) having a radially outer peripheral arc length corresponding to the length of a label and a second region (6a2, 6c2) having a radially outer peripheral arc length corresponding to a predetermined spacing (19a, 19b) between two labels applied onto two different containers.

6. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 4, wherein the slats (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) are fixedly connected with the vacuum transfer drum (6) via holding elements (9a, 9b, 9c, 9d), wherein the suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) have at least one outer contour surface having an outer diameter which is greater than the outer diameter of the exchange sections (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d), the outer diameter of the holding elements (9a, 9b, 9c, 9d) and the outer diameter of the slats (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) configured as cutting surfaces.

7. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 4, wherein the suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) are embodied movable.

8. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 7, wherein it comprises at least one control cam mechanism for controlling the movement of the suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7 d).

9. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strips (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d) configured for cutting the cutting face of the label strip in cooperation with the cutting rotor are modified from hard metal strips.

10. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein said replacement section (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) circumferentially covers with its outer contour the entire outer diameter of said vacuum transfer cylinder (6).

11. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein it comprises two, three, four, six or more exchange sections.

12. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein it comprises an adjustment unit configured for adjusting the rotational positioning and/or the rotational speed of the cutting rotor (5) and/or of the vacuum transfer cylinder (6).

13. The labeling unit (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 7, wherein it comprises an adjustment unit, wherein said adjustment unit is configured for adjusting the movement of the suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) in the labeling unit.

14. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 13, wherein said adjustment unit is configured for radially retracting said suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) within a predetermined range of rotational positioning of said vacuum transfer drum (6).

15. A labelling unit (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein it comprises a movable gluing device for gluing the labels on the vacuum transfer cylinder (6).

16. Labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) according to claim 4, wherein said suction slats (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) are configured to perform a radial movement.

17. Labelling machine, characterized in that it has a labelling group (1) for applying labels onto containers (3) and a conveyor for transporting containers having a container receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 16.