EP0248375B1 - Method and device for dispensing labels adhering to a carrier strip - Google Patents

Method and device for dispensing labels adhering to a carrier strip Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0248375B1
EP0248375B1 EP87107873A EP87107873A EP0248375B1 EP 0248375 B1 EP0248375 B1 EP 0248375B1 EP 87107873 A EP87107873 A EP 87107873A EP 87107873 A EP87107873 A EP 87107873A EP 0248375 B1 EP0248375 B1 EP 0248375B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
label
carrier strip
detaching edge
edge
strip
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP87107873A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0248375A1 (en
Inventor
Werner Rometsch
Eckhard Mulfinger
Volkmar Böhmer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co
Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co
Original Assignee
Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co
Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co, Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co filed Critical Heinrich Hermann GmbH and Co
Priority to AT87107873T priority Critical patent/ATE55341T1/en
Publication of EP0248375A1 publication Critical patent/EP0248375A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0248375B1 publication Critical patent/EP0248375B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
    • B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
    • B65C9/08—Label feeding
    • B65C9/18—Label feeding from strips, e.g. from rolls
    • B65C9/1865—Label feeding from strips, e.g. from rolls the labels adhering on a backing strip
    • B65C9/1876—Label feeding from strips, e.g. from rolls the labels adhering on a backing strip and being transferred by suction means
    • B65C9/1884—Label feeding from strips, e.g. from rolls the labels adhering on a backing strip and being transferred by suction means the suction means being a movable vacuum arm or pad
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
    • B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
    • B65C9/40—Controls; Safety devices
    • B65C9/42—Label feed control
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
    • B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
    • B65C9/0006—Removing backing sheets
    • B65C2009/0009—Removing backing sheets by means of a peeling tip

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for dispensing labels from a label tape which has a carrier tape and adhesive labels adhering thereon, the carrier tape coming from a supply roll and leading to a carrier tape rewinder being placed in a loop around a label detaching edge and the label being passed to a label transfer device, e.g. a movable suction device, which transfers the detached label to the label, is donated. It also relates to a device for performing such a method.
  • a method is known in which a movable table is used, around which the carrier tape is placed approximately in the form of a rectangle.
  • this table is moved with its one end under a label transfer element, here in the form of a suction device, and the carrier tape is driven by a motor until a label on this table end is located exactly under the suction device.
  • This label is sucked up by the vacuum cleaner.
  • the table is then moved away again under the suction device, the carrier tape wrapped around the table shifting relative to it without changing the overall length of the rectangular loop.
  • the label held by the sucker is detached from the carrier tape and can then be transferred to the label.
  • the device known from DE-A1 3 233 546 also works in a comparable manner.
  • the carrier tape must be driven by an electric motor so that the label comes to rest exactly under the sucker. This is particularly difficult at higher labeling speeds, since due to the rectangular guiding of the carrier tape around the movable table, considerable flexing work is required if the carrier tape is driven by this electric motor. This can lead to difficulties when starting this electric motor, so that it stops if you try to increase the labeling speed too much.
  • the labeling accuracy (the electric motor is controlled by a label button) naturally also depends on the properties of the drive, e.g. the accuracy of a clutch.
  • high-precision switching drives e.g.
  • GB-A 1 369 568 is a labeling device in which the labels are detached by moving the carrier tape around a label detaching edge and then pressed directly onto the goods to be labeled by a transfer element, here in the form of a scraper.
  • a carrier tape rewinder is provided, which has a one-way clutch and therefore can only rewind the carrier tape, but prevents the same from unwinding.
  • the label peeling edge - together with the guide for the label tape - is pivoted about a horizontal axis of rotation by the label material being fed.
  • the carrier tape is moved by a linear drive with high specific power, typically a pneumatic working cylinder, during a first partial feed, the process is very fast.
  • a low-power but precise drive namely a rotating drive.
  • the labeling accuracy possible with such rotating drives is obtained, e.g. a stepper motor of normal dimensions can be used, which provides the required high torque and the required positioning accuracy at low speeds.
  • This rotating drive can then advantageously be used to quickly pull the label release edge back into its starting position by quickly pulling off the carrier tape.
  • the label detaching itself from the label carrier tape is taken over by a label transfer device.
  • the rotating drive can keep the carrier tape blocked - a separate brake may also be possible for this purpose, and conversely, during the rapid removal of the carrier tape, the label tape is blocked at a point in front of the label detaching edge.
  • the method is advantageously designed in such a way that during the first partial feed the feed movement is limited by a stop which can preferably be set to different label lengths.
  • the method according to the invention can advantageously be designed such that the linear drive is designed to act only in the feed direction, the label detaching edge then being retracted into its starting position only by pulling off the carrier tape.
  • the device according to the invention is designed such that the carrier tape deflected in the opposite direction is guided in a rotating drive which blocks the carrier tape when it is at a standstill and, during operation, ensures precise positioning, preferably at low speed, and a rapid pull-off movement of the in comparison to the positioning speed deflected carrier tape enables.
  • the rotating drive can thus perform several functions within the scope of the invention.
  • the linear drive is advantageously designed as a working cylinder, preferably as a pneumatically working working cylinder, or as an electric linear motor.
  • An adjustable stop is advantageously provided to limit the conveying stroke and / or the return stroke of the linear drive. This enables adaptation to different label lengths.
  • an end position shock absorber is advantageously provided for damping the delivery stroke and / or the return stroke of the linear drive, and at least one sensor is provided for detecting the end position of the linear drive.
  • the rotating drive for the carrier belt e.g. training as a stepper motor, as a disc motor, or as a motor provided with a clutch.
  • control unit preferably has a microprocessor.
  • the label tape remains flat on the label detaching edge, despite the differences in tensile force in the tape due to friction in front of and after this edge.
  • a positionally accurate transfer to the label transfer element is thereby achieved.
  • This effect can be improved in a device according to the invention in a preferred manner in that a constantly acting brake is provided between the supply roll and the label detaching edge in order to maintain the tape tension required in the label tape.
  • Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a labeling device according to the invention. This device is in its starting position for a subsequent labeling cycle.
  • This labeling device uses a label tape 1 in the form of a carrier tape 1a, usually coated with a transparent silicone varnish, on which individual printed pressure-sensitive adhesive labels 1 are located.
  • the label tape 1 is located on a supply roll 2 and is guided by the latter via a deflection roller 20 to a stationary table 21, against which it is pressed by an adjustable, continuous brake 3.
  • This brake 3 serves to maintain a corresponding tension in the label tape.
  • a signal transmitter or sensor 4 serves to detect the position of the individual labels 1 on the carrier tape 1a. He can e.g. a microswitch that detects the edges of the labels or a photoelectric sensor, e.g. a light barrier which emits a signal when the transparent carrier tape 1a is in its gap and allows light to pass through.
  • a microswitch that detects the edges of the labels
  • a photoelectric sensor e.g. a light barrier which emits a signal when the transparent carrier tape 1a is in its gap and allows light to pass through.
  • the parking brake 5 works pneumatically, and the pneumatics are electrically controlled in the usual way.
  • the label transfer element 9 To the left of the longitudinally movable label detaching edge 6 is the label transfer element 9, shown in FIG. 1 in the rest position, with its pneumatic drive 9a.
  • the label transfer member 9 can e.g. be a vacuum-operated suction device, as is known in many ways to the person skilled in the art of labeling devices, so that a detailed representation is unnecessary.
  • a linear drive 10 which only has to be effective in the feed direction, serves to move the longitudinally movable label detaching edge 6.
  • the linear drive 10 can e.g. be an electric linear motor, or a pneumatic or hydraulic working cylinder. Typical of such linear motors is their high specific power and their rapid acceleration. Since the stroke of the linear drive 10 must be different in different label formats, namely slightly less than half the label length or slightly less than half the label division (the label division is the distance between the center of two successive labels 1 on the carrier tape 1 a) this stroke is limited by two adjustable stops 11 and 13, which interact with a connecting element 14 which rigidly connects the linear drive 10 to the label detaching edge 6. Furthermore, two limit switches 16 and 17 are provided in the manner shown for detecting the position of this connecting element 14. The limit switch 17 detects the retracted position of the label detaching edge 6 shown in FIG. 1, while the limit switch 16 detects the advanced position of the label detaching edge 6 shown in FIG. 2.
  • a control unit 15 typically a microprocessor controlled by a corresponding program, has a mains connection 15a and, as shown, is connected to the sensor 4, the rotating drive 7a of the pair of extraction rollers 7, and the limit switches 16 and 17 by lines indicated by dashed lines. likewise with the corresponding (not shown) control valves of the pneumatically operated devices, that is the parking brake 5, of the drive 9a for the label transfer element 9, and of the linear drive 10.
  • the control device 15 controls the chronological sequence of the movement processes according to the invention, as will be described below.
  • the operation of the device according to FIG. 1 is as follows: First, the control unit 15 blocks the motor 7a, so that the pair of take-off rolls 7 stands and clamps the carrier belt 1a and thereby blocks it. Now the linear drive 10 is switched on and moves the label detaching edge 8 forward as far as the stop 11. The abutment against the stop 11 can - like the abutment against the stop 13 - be damped by small shock absorbers, not shown, which are expediently attached to the connecting element 14.
  • the label peeling edge 6 is now advanced by one stroke, which e.g. is smaller than D / 2, ie slightly smaller than half the label length D, this stroke being determined by the distance between the stops 11 and 13. 4B, the foremost label 1 is thereby detached from the carrier tape 1 a and pushed under the suction device 9, but has not yet reached its exact, final position, but is still missing, for example, a few millimeters.
  • the motor 7a is switched on by the control unit 15, and the pulling roller pair 7 moves the carrier tape 1a forward at a low speed until the sensor 4 indicates to the control unit 15 the correct position of the label tape 1.
  • This movement process is indicated by the arrow 22 in FIG. 4B.
  • the label 1 is located at its end exactly under the suction device 9, as is also shown in FIG. 2.
  • the control unit 15 switches on the brake 5 and presses the label strip 1 against the table 21.
  • the linear drive 10 is switched off, e.g. in a pneumatic cylinder this is depressurized, and the motor 7a is switched to rapid feed, so that the pulling roller pair 7 pulls the carrier tape 1a and feeds the take-up reel 8 until the label peeling edge 6 is pulled back into its starting position by the carrier tape 1a , that is, against the stop 13, the limit switch 17 emitting a corresponding signal. Due to this rapid removal process, the carrier tape 1 a is completely removed from the label 1 b, which is located on the sucker 9 and is held onto it by vacuum.
  • this pull-off movement advantageously takes place against a braking force, for example, as shown, against the force of a spring 25 with a flat spring characteristic, or against the force of a one-sided damping cylinder (not shown) .
  • the spring 25 in FIG. 1 is not in the gap between the suction device 9 and the goods to be labeled 12, but rather, for example, in front of or behind this gap.
  • the suction device 9 serving as the label transfer element can transfer the label onto the product to be labeled 12, as is also shown in FIGS. 3 and 4D .
  • the control unit 15 then moves the suction device 9 back into its rest position by means of its drive 9a, and the cycle described can then start again.
  • the label peeling edge 6 each time a label 1b comes to rest on it so that its front edge is flush with the left end of the label peeling edge 6, and this can be adjusted by adjusting the stop 13.
  • the label tape 1 is deflected only on the deflection roller 20, for example, by 45 ° , and then on the label detaching edge 6 by 180 ° , so that the label tape 1 is approximately in the form of a when inserted into the machine elongated hairpin.
  • two such devices can also be used back to back.
  • a mirror plane through the longitudinal axis of the linear drive 10 on which the upper part of FIG. 1 would be mirrored, and one would then have two labeling devices which could label the goods to be labeled 12 from above and from below.
  • the invention prevents the formation of "bubbles" in the labeling tape 1 in the area of the label detaching edge 6 and thereby increases the labeling accuracy.
  • the invention results in a small stroke of the label peeling edge 6 for the transfer of the labels 1b, which also increases the working speed, and moreover - due to the small thickness of the label peeling edge 6 - a very small stroke of the label transfer member 9, especially in comparison to the device DE - A 3 233 546.

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  • Labeling Devices (AREA)

Abstract

1. A method of dispensing labels (1b) from a label strip (1) which comprises a carrier strip (1a) and adhesive labels adhering to it, in which the carrier strip (1a), coming from a delivery roll (2) and passing to a device (8) for winding up the carrier strip, is looped around a label detaching edge (6) and the label (1b) is transferred to a label transfer element (9), e.g. a moving suction head, which transfers the detached label (1b) to the goods (12) to be labelled, with the following steps : a) in a first partial feeding movement (Fig. 4B) of a new label (1b) towards the label transfer element (9) the carrier strip (1a) is immobilised at a position after the label detaching edge (6) and the latter is moved in the label feeding direction by a linear drive (10) ; b) then in a second partial feeding movement (Fig. 4C) the label (1b) is positioned precisely in front of the label transfer element (9) by a rotating drive (7) located at a position after the label detaching edge (6) ; c) after precise positioning has been achieved, the label strip (1) is immobilised (5) at a position before the label detaching edge (6) and the latter is retracted to its initial position, preferably by means of said rotating drive (7) and by pulling off the carrier strip (Ia) in the direction of the device (8) for winding up the carrier strip.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Spenden von Etiketten von einem Etikettenband, welches ein Trägerband und darauf haftende Haftetiketten aufweist, wobei das Trägerband, von einer Vorratsrolle kommend und zu einer Trägerbandaufwicklung führend, schlaufenförmig um eine Etikettenablösekante gelegt ist und das Etikett zu einem Etikettenübergabeorgan, z.B. einem beweglichen Sauger, welcher das abgelöste Etikett auf das Etikettiergut überträgt, gespendet wird. Sie betrifft ferner eine Vorrichtung zur Durchführung eines solchen Verfahrens.The invention relates to a method for dispensing labels from a label tape which has a carrier tape and adhesive labels adhering thereon, the carrier tape coming from a supply roll and leading to a carrier tape rewinder being placed in a loop around a label detaching edge and the label being passed to a label transfer device, e.g. a movable suction device, which transfers the detached label to the label, is donated. It also relates to a device for performing such a method.

Aus der NL-A 6 709 681 ist ein Verfahren bekannt, bei welchem ein beweglicher Tisch verwendet wird, um den das Trägerband etwa in Form eines Rechtecks gelegt ist. Beim Spendevorgang wird dieser Tisch mit seinem einen Ende unter ein Etikettenübergabeorgan, hier in Form eines Saugers, gefahren, und das Trägerband wird durch einen Motor so lange angetrieben, bis sich ein Etikett auf diesem Tischende genau unter dem Sauger befindet. Dieses Etikett wird vom Sauger angesaugt. Anschließend wird der Tisch wieder unter dem Sauger wegbewegt, wobei sich das um den Tisch geschlungene Trägerband relativ zu ihm verschiebt, ohne daß sich die Gesamtlänge der rechteckförmigen Schlaufe ändert. Dabei wird das durch den Sauger festgehaltene Etikett vom Trägerband abgelöst und kann dann auf das Etikettiergut übertragen werden. In vergleichbarer Weise arbeitet auch die aus der DE-A1 3 233 546 bekannte Vorrichtung. - Bei diesem bekannten Verfahren muß das Trägerband durch einen Elektromotor so angetrieben werden, daß das Etikett genau unter den Sauger zu liegen kommt. Dies bereitet besonders bei höheren Etikettiergeschwindigkeiten Schwierigkeiten, da infolge der rechteckförmigen Führung des Trägerbandes um den verschiebbaren Tisch erhebliche Walkarbeit erforderlich wird, wenn das Trägerband durch diesen Elektromotor angetrieben wird. Dies kann zu Schwierigkeiten beim Anlauf dieses Elektromotors führen, so daß dieser stehenbleibt, wenn man versucht, die Etikettiergeschwindigkeit zu stark zu erhöhen. Auch hängt naturgemäß die Etikettiergenauigkeit (der Elektromotor wird durch einen Etikettentaster gesteuert) von den Eigenschaften des Antriebs ab, z.B. der Genauigkeit einer Schaltkupplung. Alternativ muß bei Schaltantrieben hoher Genauigkeit, z.B. bei Schrittmotoren, auf Grund von deren elektrischen Kennwerten ein solcher Antrieb unverhältnismäßig groß dimensioniert werden, was hohe Kosten verursacht und bei Beschleunigungsvorgängen einen hohen Energieverbrauch bewirkt. Werden bei einer solchen bekannten Vorrichtung breite Etikettenbänder verwendet, die wegen der auftretenden Walkarbeit einen mechanisch sehr stabilen Aufbau des verschiebbaren Tisches erfordern, so wird hierdurch das Einlegen des Trägerbandes sehr erschwert.From NL-A 6 709 681 a method is known in which a movable table is used, around which the carrier tape is placed approximately in the form of a rectangle. During the dispensing process, this table is moved with its one end under a label transfer element, here in the form of a suction device, and the carrier tape is driven by a motor until a label on this table end is located exactly under the suction device. This label is sucked up by the vacuum cleaner. The table is then moved away again under the suction device, the carrier tape wrapped around the table shifting relative to it without changing the overall length of the rectangular loop. The label held by the sucker is detached from the carrier tape and can then be transferred to the label. The device known from DE-A1 3 233 546 also works in a comparable manner. - In this known method, the carrier tape must be driven by an electric motor so that the label comes to rest exactly under the sucker. This is particularly difficult at higher labeling speeds, since due to the rectangular guiding of the carrier tape around the movable table, considerable flexing work is required if the carrier tape is driven by this electric motor. This can lead to difficulties when starting this electric motor, so that it stops if you try to increase the labeling speed too much. The labeling accuracy (the electric motor is controlled by a label button) naturally also depends on the properties of the drive, e.g. the accuracy of a clutch. Alternatively, high-precision switching drives, e.g. in stepper motors, based on their electrical characteristics, such a drive is dimensioned disproportionately large, which causes high costs and causes high energy consumption during acceleration processes. If wide label tapes are used in such a known device, which require a mechanically very stable construction of the sliding table due to the flexing work that occurs, this makes the insertion of the carrier tape very difficult.

Man kennt ferner aus der GB-A 1 369 568 eine Etikettiervorrichtung, bei der die Etiketten durch Bewegung des Trägerbandes um eine Etikettenablösekante abgelöst und dann durch ein Übergabeorgan, hier in Gestalt eines Abstreifers, direkt auf das Etikettiergut angedrückt werden. Bei dieser bekannten Vorrichtung ist eine Trägerbandaufwicklung vorgesehen, die eine Freilaufkupplung aufweist und daher das Trägerband nur aufwickeln kann, aber eine Abwicklung desselben verhindert. Beim Etikettiervorgang wird die Etikettenablösekante - samt der Führung für das Etikettenband - durch das zugeführte Etikettiergut um eine horizontale Drehachse verschwenkt. Hierbei vergrößert sich die Länge einer um die Etikettenablösekante gelegten Trägerbandschlaufe, und da das Trägerband hinter der Etikettenablösekante durch die Trägerbandaufwicklung blockiert ist, bewirkt diese Schwenkbewegung, daß Etikettenband von einer Vorratsrolle abgezogen und ein Etikett durch die Etikettenablösekante vom Trägerband abgelöst und durch den Abstreifer auf das Etikettiergut übertragen wird. Am Ende dieser Schwenkbewegung wird hierbei durch einen Anpreßfinger das Etikettenband vor der Etikettenablösekante blockiert.Also known from GB-A 1 369 568 is a labeling device in which the labels are detached by moving the carrier tape around a label detaching edge and then pressed directly onto the goods to be labeled by a transfer element, here in the form of a scraper. In this known device, a carrier tape rewinder is provided, which has a one-way clutch and therefore can only rewind the carrier tape, but prevents the same from unwinding. During the labeling process, the label peeling edge - together with the guide for the label tape - is pivoted about a horizontal axis of rotation by the label material being fed. Here, the length of a carrier tape loop placed around the label peeling edge increases, and since the carrier tape behind the label peeling edge is blocked by the carrier tape rewinder, this pivoting movement causes the label tape to be pulled off a supply roll and a label to be detached from the carrier tape by the label peeling edge and by the scraper onto it Label material is transferred. At the end of this swiveling movement, the label tape is blocked in front of the label peeling edge by a pressure finger.

Bei der anschließenden Schwenkbewegung in entgegengesetzter Richtung, die die Etikettenablösekante durchführt, wird dann das Trägerband so weit von der Trägerbandaufwicklung aufgewickelt, bis es wieder straff ist. Dies wird durch eine Rutschkupplung in der Trägerbandaufwicklung erreicht. - Diese bekannte Vorrichtung bzw. dieses bekannte Verfahren erlauben keine hohen Etikettiergeschwindigkeiten, da ständig relativ große Massen durch das Etikettiergut verschwenkt werden müssen, wobei die Energie für den Etikettenvorschub und den Etikettiervorgang nur durch die Bewegung des Etikettierguts geliefert werden muß.During the subsequent pivoting movement in the opposite direction, which the label peeling edge carries out, the carrier tape is then wound up from the carrier tape rewinder until it is taut again. This is achieved by a slip clutch in the carrier tape rewinder. - This known device and this known method do not allow high labeling speeds, since relatively large masses have to be constantly pivoted through the label, the energy for the label feed and the labeling process only having to be supplied by the movement of the label.

Es ist deshalb eine Aufgabe der Erfindung, ein Verfahren und eine Spendevorrichtung für Selbstklebeetiketten in schaffen, welches bzw. welche mit einfachen Mitteln eine hohe Etikettiergschwindigkeit bei guter Etikettiergenauigkeit ermöglichen.It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method and a dispensing device for self-adhesive labels which, with simple means, enable a high labeling speed with good labeling accuracy.

Nach der Erfindung wird diese Aufgabe gelöst durch ein Verfahren zum Spenden von Etiketten von einem Etikettenband, welches ein Trägerband und darauf haftende Haftetiketten aufweist, wobei das Trägerband, von einer Vorratsrolle kommend und zu einer Trägerbandaufwicklung führend, schlaufenförmig um eine Etikettenablösekante gelegt ist und das Etikett zu einem Etikettenübergabeorgan, z.B. einem beweglichen Sauger, welcher das abgelöste Etikett auf das Etikettiergut überträgt, gespendet wird, mit folgenden Schritten:

  • a) Jeweils bei einem ersten Teilvorschub eines neuen Etiketts in Richtung zum Etikettenübergabeorgan wird unter Blockierung des Trägerbandes an einer Stelle nach der Etikettenablösekante letztere durch einen Linearantrieb in Etikettenvorschubrichtung bewegt:
  • b) anschließend wird bei einem zweiten Teilvorschub durch einen an einer Stelle nach der Etikettenablösekante angeordneten rotierenden Antrieb das Etikett vor dem Etikettenübergabeorgan genau positioniert;
  • c) nach erreichter genauer Positionierung wird das Etikettenband an einer Stelle vor der Etikettenablösekante blockiert und letztere, vorzugsweise mittels des genannten rotierenden Antriebs und durch in Richtung zur Trägerbandaufwicklung erfolgendes Abziehen des Trägerbandes, in ihre Ausgangsstellung zurückgezogen.
According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for dispensing labels from a label tape which has a carrier tape and adhesive labels adhering thereon, the carrier tape coming from a supply roll and leading to a carrier tape rewinder being placed in a loop around a label peeling edge and the label to a label transfer device, for example a movable suction device, which transfers the detached label to the goods to be labeled, with the following steps:
  • a) In each case at a first partial advance of a new label in the direction of the label transfer element, blocking the carrier tape at a point after the label detaching edge, the latter is moved in the label advance direction by a linear drive:
  • b) then, in the case of a second partial feed, the label is precisely positioned in front of the label transfer member by a rotating drive arranged at a point after the label detaching edge;
  • c) after precise positioning has been achieved, the label tape is blocked at a point in front of the label peeling edge and the latter, preferably retracted into their starting position by means of the said rotating drive and by pulling off the carrier tape in the direction of the carrier tape winding.

Dadurch, daß bei einem ersten Teilvorschub das Trägerband durch einen Linearantrieb mit hoher spezifischer Leistung, typisch einen pneumatischen Arbeitszylinder, bewegt wird, ist das Verfahren sehr schnell. Beim zweiten Teilvorschub zur genauen Positionierung braucht dann nur noch ein Teil einer Etikettenlänge von der Vorratsrolle abgezogen werden, und hierzu kann man einen leistungsschwachen, aber präzisen Antrieb verwenden, nämlich einen rotierenden Antrieb. Dabei erhält man die mit solchen rotierenden Antrieben mögliche Etikettiergenauigkeit, wobei z.B. ein Schrittmotor normaler Dimensionierung verwendet werden kann, der bei niedrigen Drehzahlen das erforderliche hohe Drehmoment und die erforderliche Positioniergenauigkeit erbringt. Anschließend kann dann dieser rotierende Antrieb mit Vorteil dazu verwendet werden, durch raschen Abzug des Trägerbandes die Etikettenablösekante rasch in ihre Ausgangsstellung zurückzuziehen. Das dabei sich vom Etikettenträgerband ablösende Etikett wird von einem Etikettenübergabeorgan übernommen. Beim raschen Teilvorschub kann der rotierende Antrieb das Trägerband blockiert halten - ggf. ist hierfür auch eine separate Bremse möglich -, und umgekehrt wird während des raschen Abzugs des Trägerbands das Etikettenband an einer Stelle vor der Etikettenablösekante blockiert. Durch ein sinnvolles Zusammenspiel verschiedener, dem jeweiligen Bewegungsvorgang optimal angepaßter Antriebsweisen erhält man also ein Verfahren, das z.B. im Vergleich zum Verfahren nach der eingangs genannten NL-A 6 709 681 eine wesentlich höhere Etikettiergeschwindigkeit ermöglicht. Dabei ist auch sehr vorteilhaft, daß - außer an der Etikettenablösekante - scharfe Umlenkungen des Etikettenbandes vermieden werden können.Because the carrier tape is moved by a linear drive with high specific power, typically a pneumatic working cylinder, during a first partial feed, the process is very fast. In the second partial feed for precise positioning, only a part of a label length then has to be pulled off the supply roll, and for this one can use a low-power but precise drive, namely a rotating drive. The labeling accuracy possible with such rotating drives is obtained, e.g. a stepper motor of normal dimensions can be used, which provides the required high torque and the required positioning accuracy at low speeds. This rotating drive can then advantageously be used to quickly pull the label release edge back into its starting position by quickly pulling off the carrier tape. The label detaching itself from the label carrier tape is taken over by a label transfer device. In the case of rapid partial feed, the rotating drive can keep the carrier tape blocked - a separate brake may also be possible for this purpose, and conversely, during the rapid removal of the carrier tape, the label tape is blocked at a point in front of the label detaching edge. Through a sensible interplay of different drive modes that are optimally adapted to the respective movement process, you get a process that e.g. compared to the process according to NL-A 6 709 681 mentioned at the outset enables a significantly higher labeling speed. It is also very advantageous that - apart from the label peeling edge - sharp deflections of the label tape can be avoided.

Mit besonderem Vorteil geht man bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren so vor, daß die Abzugsbewegung des Trägerbandes entgegen der Kraft eines einseitig wirkenden Dämpfers und/oder einer Feder mit flacher Federkennlinie erfolgt.It is particularly advantageous in the process according to the invention that the pull-off movement of the carrier tape takes place against the force of a one-way damper and / or a spring with a flat spring characteristic.

Um verschiedene Etikettenlängen verarbeiten zu können, wird das Verfahren mit Vorteil so ausgebildet, daß beim ersten Teilvorschub die Vorschubbewegung durch einen Anschlag begrenzt wird, welcher bevorzugt auf verschiedene Etikettenlängen einstellbar ist.In order to be able to process different label lengths, the method is advantageously designed in such a way that during the first partial feed the feed movement is limited by a stop which can preferably be set to different label lengths.

Ferner kann das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren mit Vorteil so ausgestaltet werden, daß der Linearantrieb nur in Vorschubrichtung wirkend ausgebildet ist, wobei die Etikettenablösekante dann nur durch das Abziehen des Trägerbandes in ihre Ausgangsstellung zurückgezogen wird.Furthermore, the method according to the invention can advantageously be designed such that the linear drive is designed to act only in the feed direction, the label detaching edge then being retracted into its starting position only by pulling off the carrier tape.

Die genannte Aufgabe wird nach der Erfindung ferner gelöst durch eine Vorrichtung zur Durchführung des erläuterten Verfahrens, mit folgenden Merkmalen:According to the invention, the stated object is also achieved by a device for carrying out the method described, having the following features:

Einer Etikettenablösekante, um die das Trägerband, von einer Vorratsrolle kommend und zu einer Trägerbandaufwicklung führend schlaufenförmig gelegt ist

  • einem Etikettenübergabeorgan, z.B. einem beweglichen Sauger, welches das abgelöste Etikett auf das Etikettiergut überträgt.
  • einem Linearantrieb zum Antrieb der Etikettenablösekante in Etikettenvorschubrichtung,
  • einer Vorrichtung zum Blockieren des Trägerbandes an einer Stelle nach der Etikettenablösekante, einem Sensor für die jeweilige Etikettenlage,
  • einer an einer Stelle vor der Etikettenablösekante angeordneten Feststellbremse zur Betätigung während des Rückzugs der Etikettenablösekante, und einem Steuergerät zum Steuern der vorgenannten Elemente. Eine solche Vorrichtung hat eine insgesamt sehr flache, raumsparende Bauweise. Soll ein Gegenstand an beiden Enden etikettiert werden, so kann man zwei solche Vorrichtungen dicht nebeneinander auf engem Raum unterbringen, so daß beide Enden dieses Gegenstands gleichzeitig etikettiert werden können. Ein weiterer großer Vorteil einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung liegt darin, daß die bewegten Massen gering sind, da die Etikettenablösekante nur eine geringe Masse aufzuweisen braucht und auch ihre Führung massenarm ausgebildet werden kann. Außerdem wird durch die einfache Bandführung das Einlegen des Etikettenbandes sehr vereinfacht, was sich besonders bei breiten Etikettenbändern sehr vorteilhaft auswirkt. Im wesentlichen hat das eingelegte Etikettenband die Form einer langgestreckten Haarnadel, während z.B. bei der Vorrichtung nach der DE-A 3 233 546 das Band nebeneinander drei Schlaufen bildet.
A label peeling edge, around which the carrier tape, coming from a supply roll and leading to a carrier tape winder, is looped
  • a label transfer device, for example a movable suction device, which transfers the detached label to the goods to be labeled.
  • a linear drive for driving the label peeling edge in the label feed direction,
  • a device for blocking the carrier tape at a point after the label peeling edge, a sensor for the respective label position,
  • a parking brake arranged at a point in front of the label peeling edge for actuation during the retraction of the label peeling edge, and a control device for controlling the aforementioned elements. Such a device has an overall very flat, space-saving design. If an object is to be labeled at both ends, two such devices can be placed close to one another in a narrow space, so that both ends of this object can be labeled at the same time. Another great advantage of a device according to the invention is that the moving masses are small, since the label peeling edge only has to have a small mass and its guide can also be designed with low masses. In addition, the simple tape guide simplifies the insertion of the label tape, which has a particularly advantageous effect in the case of wide label tapes. The inserted label tape essentially has the shape of an elongated hairpin, while in the device according to DE-A 3 233 546, for example, the tape forms three loops next to one another.

Mit besonderem Vorteil wird die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung so ausgebildet, daß das in Gegenrichtung umgelenkte Trägerband in einem rotierenden Antrieb geführt ist, welcher bei Stillstand das Trägerband blockiert und im Betrieb eine genaue Positionierung, vorzugsweise mit geringer Geschwindigkeit, sowie eine im Vergleich zur Positioniergeschwindigkeit schnelle Abzugsbewegung des umgelenkten Trägerbandes ermöglich. Der rotierende Antrieb kann so im Rahmen der Erfindung mehrere Funktionen übernehmen.With particular advantage, the device according to the invention is designed such that the carrier tape deflected in the opposite direction is guided in a rotating drive which blocks the carrier tape when it is at a standstill and, during operation, ensures precise positioning, preferably at low speed, and a rapid pull-off movement of the in comparison to the positioning speed deflected carrier tape enables. The rotating drive can thus perform several functions within the scope of the invention.

Mit Vorteil wird bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung der Linearantrieb als Arbeitszylinder, bevorzugt als pneumatisch arbeitender Arbeitszylinder, oder als elektrischer Linearmotor ausgebildet.In a device according to the invention, the linear drive is advantageously designed as a working cylinder, preferably as a pneumatically working working cylinder, or as an electric linear motor.

Zur Begrenzung des Förderhubs und/oder des Rückhubs des Linearantriebs wird mit Vorteil ein verstellbarer Anschlag vorgesehen. Dies ermöglicht die Anpassung an unterschiedliche Etikettenlängen.An adjustable stop is advantageously provided to limit the conveying stroke and / or the return stroke of the linear drive. This enables adaptation to different label lengths.

Ebenso wird mit Vorteil zur Dämpfung des Förderhubs und/oder des Rückhubs des Linearantriebs ein Endlagen-Stoßdämpfer vorgesehen, und es wird zur Endlagenerkennung des Linearantriebs mindestens ein Sensor vorgesehen.Likewise, an end position shock absorber is advantageously provided for damping the delivery stroke and / or the return stroke of the linear drive, and at least one sensor is provided for detecting the end position of the linear drive.

Für den rotierenden Antrieb für das Trägerband ergeben sich verschiedene bevorzugte Möglichkeiten, z.B. eine Ausbildung als Schrittmotor, als Scheibenläufermotor, oder als mit einer Schaltkupplung versehener Motor.There are various preferred options for the rotating drive for the carrier belt, e.g. training as a stepper motor, as a disc motor, or as a motor provided with a clutch.

Besonders einfach ist die Programmierung, wenn in bevorzugter Weise das Steuergerät einen Mikroprozessor aufweist.Programming is particularly easy if the control unit preferably has a microprocessor.

Dadurch, daß beim raschen Vorschub die Bewegung der Etikettenablösekante gleichzeitig Abzugsbewegung aus dem Etikettenvorrat ist, bleibt das Etikettenband an der Etikettenablösekante eben, trotz der infolge Reibung vorhandenen Zugkraftunterschiede im Band vor und nach dieser Kante. Dadurch wird eine positionsgenaue Übergabe an das Etikettenübergabeorgan erreicht. Diese Wirkung kann bei einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung in bevorzugter Weise dadurch verbessert werden, daß zwischen der Vorratsrolle und der Etikettenablösekante eine ständig wirkende Bremse zur Aufrechterhaltung der im Etikettenband erforderlichen Bandspannung vorgesehen ist.Because the movement of the label detaching edge is at the same time pulling movement from the label supply during rapid feed, the label tape remains flat on the label detaching edge, despite the differences in tensile force in the tape due to friction in front of and after this edge. A positionally accurate transfer to the label transfer element is thereby achieved. This effect can be improved in a device according to the invention in a preferred manner in that a constantly acting brake is provided between the supply roll and the label detaching edge in order to maintain the tape tension required in the label tape.

Weitere Einzelheiten und vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung ergeben sich aus dem im folgenden beschriebenen und in der Zeichnung dargestellten, in keiner Weise als Einschränkung der Erfindung zu verstehenden Ausführungsbeispiel, sowie aus den Unteransprüchen. Es zeigt:

  • Fig. 1 eine Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Etikettiervorrichtung in ihrer Ausgangsstellung vor dem Vorschub des Etikettenbandes,
  • Fig. 2 die Vorrichtung der Fig. 1 nach dem Vorschub des Etikettenbandes durch die Etikettenablösekante und den rotierenden Antrieb, wobei ein Etikett auf dem Etikettenübergabeorgan angeordnet ist und das Etikettenband durch eine Bremse blockiert ist,
  • Fig. 3 die Vorrichtung der Fig. 1 bei zurückgezogener Etikettenablösekante und gelöster Bremse des Etikettenbandes, wobei das Etikett vom Etikettenübergabeorgan auf das Etikettiergut übertragen wird, und
  • Fig. 4 eine schematische Darstellung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens in seinem zeitlichen Ablauf.
Further details and advantageous developments of the invention result from the exemplary embodiment described below and shown in the drawing, which is in no way to be understood as a restriction of the invention, and from the subclaims. It shows:
  • 1 is an illustration of a labeling device according to the invention in its starting position before the feed of the label tape,
  • 2 shows the device of FIG. 1 after the label tape has been fed through the label detaching edge and the rotating drive, a label being arranged on the label transfer member and the label tape being blocked by a brake,
  • 3 shows the device of FIG. 1 with the label detaching edge withdrawn and the brake on the label tape released, the label being transferred from the label transfer member to the product to be labeled, and
  • Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of the method according to the invention in its chronological sequence.

Fig. 1 zeigt ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Etikettiervorrichtung. Diese Vorrichtung befindet sich in ihrer Ausgangslage für einen nachfolgenden Etikettierzyklus.Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a labeling device according to the invention. This device is in its starting position for a subsequent labeling cycle.

Diese Etikettiervorrichtung verwendet ein Etikettenband 1 in Form eines - gewöhnlich mit Silikonlack beschichteten und transparenten - Trägerbandes 1a, auf dem sich einzelne bedruckte Haftklebeetiketten 1 befinden. Das Etikettenband 1 befindet sich auf einer Vorratsrolle 2 und wird von dieser über eine Umlenkrolle 20 zu einem stationären Tisch 21 geführt, gegen den es durch eine einstellbare, kontinuierliche Bremse 3 gedrückt wird. Diese Bremse 3 dient dazu, im Etikettenband eine entsprechende Spannung aufrecht zu erhalten. Ein Signalgeber bzw. Sensor 4 dient dazu, die Lage der einzelnen Etiketten 1 auf dem Trägerband 1a zu erfassen. Er kann z.B. ein Mikroschalter sein, welcher die Kanten der Etiketten erfaßt, oder ein fotoelektrischer Sensor, z.B. eine Lichtschranke, die dann ein Signal abgibt, wenn sich das transparente Trägerband 1a in ihrem Spalt befindet und Licht durchläßt. Sensoren dieser Art sind in großer Vielfalt bekannt.This labeling device uses a label tape 1 in the form of a carrier tape 1a, usually coated with a transparent silicone varnish, on which individual printed pressure-sensitive adhesive labels 1 are located. The label tape 1 is located on a supply roll 2 and is guided by the latter via a deflection roller 20 to a stationary table 21, against which it is pressed by an adjustable, continuous brake 3. This brake 3 serves to maintain a corresponding tension in the label tape. A signal transmitter or sensor 4 serves to detect the position of the individual labels 1 on the carrier tape 1a. He can e.g. a microswitch that detects the edges of the labels or a photoelectric sensor, e.g. a light barrier which emits a signal when the transparent carrier tape 1a is in its gap and allows light to pass through. A wide variety of sensors of this type are known.

Gegenüber dem Tisch 21 befindet sich ferner eine Feststellbremse 5, welche bei Betätigung - vgl. Fig. 2 - das Etikettenband 1 gegen den Tisch 21 preßt und dadurch arretiert. Die Feststellbremse 5 arbeitet pneumatisch, und die Pneumatik wird in üblicher Weise elektrisch gesteuert.Opposite the table 21 there is also a parking brake 5 which, when actuated - cf. Fig. 2 - the label tape 1 presses against the table 21 and thereby locked. The parking brake 5 works pneumatically, and the pneumatics are electrically controlled in the usual way.

In Fortsetzung des Tisches 21 und - bezogen auf Fig. 1 - links von diesem befindet sich eine längsbewegliche Etikettenablösekante 6, um welche das Etikettenband 1 unter Richtungsumkehr herumgeführt ist, wobei an dieser Ablösekante 6 der Spendevorgang stattfindet, so daß sich unterhalb von ihr (bezogen auf Fig. 1) nur noch Trägerband 1a befindet. Letzteres ist, wie dargestellt, durch ein Abzugswalzenpaar 7, das von einem Motor 7a angetrieben werden kann, zu einer Aufwickelrolle 8 geführt. Der Motor 7a hat im unbewegten Zustand eine hohe Haltekraft und kann z.B. ein Schrittmotor oder ein Motor mit einer Kombination aus Kupplung und Bremse sein, welcher im Ruhezustand festgebremst ist und dessen Kupplung bei Betätigung eingeschaltet wird. Auch ein Scheibenläufermotor kann hier mit Vorteil verwendet werden.In continuation of the table 21 and - with reference to FIG. 1 - to the left of this there is a longitudinally movable label detaching edge 6, around which the label tape 1 is guided while reversing the direction, the dispensing process taking place at this detaching edge 6, so that underneath it (referred to on Fig. 1) there is only carrier tape 1a. The latter, as shown, is guided to a take-up reel 8 by a pair of draw-off rollers 7 which can be driven by a motor 7a. The motor 7a has a high holding force in the stationary state and can e.g. a stepper motor or a motor with a combination of clutch and brake, which is braked in the idle state and whose clutch is switched on when actuated. A disc motor can also be used here with advantage.

Links neben der längsbeweglichen Etikettenablösekante 6 befindet sich das - in Fig. 1 in Ruhestellung dargestellte - Etikettenübergabeorgan 9 mit seinem pneumatischen Antrieb 9a. Das Etikettenübergabeorgan 9 kann z.B. ein durch Vakuum betätigter Sauger sein, wie er dem Fachmann bei Etikettiervorrichtungen in vielfacher Weise geläufig ist, so daß eine Detaildarstellung entbehrlich ist.To the left of the longitudinally movable label detaching edge 6 is the label transfer element 9, shown in FIG. 1 in the rest position, with its pneumatic drive 9a. The label transfer member 9 can e.g. be a vacuum-operated suction device, as is known in many ways to the person skilled in the art of labeling devices, so that a detailed representation is unnecessary.

Zur Bewegung der längsbeweglichen Etikettenablösekante 6 dient ein Linearantrieb 10, der nur in Vorschubrichtung wirksam zu sein braucht. Der Linearantrieb 10 kann z.B. ein elektrischer Linearmotor sein, oder ein pneumatischer oder hydraulischer Arbeitszylinder. Typisch für solche Linearmotoren ist ihre hohe spezifische Leistung und ihre rasche Beschleunigung. Da der Hub des Linearantriebs 10 bei ünterschiedlichen Etikettenformaten unterschiedlich groß sein muß, nämlich geringfügig kleiner als die halbe Etikettenlänge, oder geringfügig kleiner als die halbe Etikettenteilung (die Etikettenteilung ist der Abstand zwischen der Mitte zweier aufeinaderfolgender Etiketten 1 auf dem Trägerband 1 a), wird dieser Hub durch zwei einstellbare Anschläge 11 und 13 begrenzt, welche mit einem Verbindungselement 14 zusammenwirken, das den Linearantrieb 10 mit der Etikettenablösekante 6 starr verbindet. Ferner sind zur Erfassung der Lage dieses Verbindungselements 14 zwei Endschalter 16 und 17 in der dargestellten Weise vorgesehen. Der Endschalter 17 erfaßt die in Fig. 1 dargestellte, zurückgezogene Lage der Etikettenablösekante 6, während der Endschalter 16 die in Fig. 2 dargestellte, vorgeschobene Lage der Etikettenablösekante 6 erfaßt.A linear drive 10, which only has to be effective in the feed direction, serves to move the longitudinally movable label detaching edge 6. The linear drive 10 can e.g. be an electric linear motor, or a pneumatic or hydraulic working cylinder. Typical of such linear motors is their high specific power and their rapid acceleration. Since the stroke of the linear drive 10 must be different in different label formats, namely slightly less than half the label length or slightly less than half the label division (the label division is the distance between the center of two successive labels 1 on the carrier tape 1 a) this stroke is limited by two adjustable stops 11 and 13, which interact with a connecting element 14 which rigidly connects the linear drive 10 to the label detaching edge 6. Furthermore, two limit switches 16 and 17 are provided in the manner shown for detecting the position of this connecting element 14. The limit switch 17 detects the retracted position of the label detaching edge 6 shown in FIG. 1, while the limit switch 16 detects the advanced position of the label detaching edge 6 shown in FIG. 2.

Ein Steuergerät 15, typisch ein durch ein entsprechendes Programm gesteuerter Mikroprozessor, hat einen Netzanschluß 15a und ist, wie dargestellt, durch - gestrichelt angedeutete - Leitungen mit dem Sensor 4, dem rotierenden Antrieb 7a des Abzungswalzenpaares 7, und den Endschaltern 16 und 17 verbunden, ebenso mit den entsprechenden (nicht dargestellten) Steuerventilen der pneumatisch betätigten Geräte, also der Feststellbremse 5, des Antriebs 9a für das Etikettenübergabeorgan 9, und des Linearantriebs 10. Das Steuergerät 15 steuert den erfindungsgemäßen zeitlichen Ablauf der Bewegungsvorgänge, wie er nachfolgend beschrieben wird.A control unit 15, typically a microprocessor controlled by a corresponding program, has a mains connection 15a and, as shown, is connected to the sensor 4, the rotating drive 7a of the pair of extraction rollers 7, and the limit switches 16 and 17 by lines indicated by dashed lines. likewise with the corresponding (not shown) control valves of the pneumatically operated devices, that is the parking brake 5, of the drive 9a for the label transfer element 9, and of the linear drive 10. The control device 15 controls the chronological sequence of the movement processes according to the invention, as will be described below.

Die Wirkungsweise der Vorrichtung nach Fig. 1 ist wie folgt: Zunächst wird durch das Steuergerät 15 der Motor 7a blockiert, so daß das Abzugswalzenpaar 7 steht und das Trägerband 1a einklemmt und dabei blockiert. Nun wird der Linearantrieb 10 eingeschaltet und bewegt die Etikettenablösekante 8 bis zum Anschlag 11 nach vorne. Der Anstoß gegen den Anschlag 11 kann dabei - ebenso wie der Anstoß gegen den Anschlag 13 - durch nicht dargestellte kleine Stoßdämpfer gedämpft werden, welche zweckmäßig am Verbindungselement 14 angebracht werden.The operation of the device according to FIG. 1 is as follows: First, the control unit 15 blocks the motor 7a, so that the pair of take-off rolls 7 stands and clamps the carrier belt 1a and thereby blocks it. Now the linear drive 10 is switched on and moves the label detaching edge 8 forward as far as the stop 11. The abutment against the stop 11 can - like the abutment against the stop 13 - be damped by small shock absorbers, not shown, which are expediently attached to the connecting element 14.

Bei Beginn der Hubbewegung befindet sich, wie dargestellt, ein Etikett 1 so auf der Etikettenablösekante 6, daß es bündig mit deren vorderen Kante abschließt. Wie in Fig. 4A dargestellt, hat ein solches Etikett die Länge D. Gemäß Fig. 4B wird nun die Etikettenablösekante 6 um einen Hub vorgeschoben, welcher z.B. kleiner als D/2, also geringfügig kleiner als die halbe Etikettenlänge D ist, wobei dieser Hub durch den Abstand der Anschläge 11 und 13 bestimmt ist. Gemäß Fig. 4B wird hierdurch das vorderste Etikett 1 vom Trägerband 1 a abgelöst und unter den Sauger 9 geschoben, hat aber noch nicht seine genaue, endgültige Position erreicht, sondern es fehlen hierzu beispielsweise noch einige Millimeter.At the beginning of the lifting movement, as shown, there is a label 1 on the label detaching edge 6 in such a way that it is flush with its front edge. As shown in Fig. 4A, such a label has the length D. According to Fig. 4B, the label peeling edge 6 is now advanced by one stroke, which e.g. is smaller than D / 2, ie slightly smaller than half the label length D, this stroke being determined by the distance between the stops 11 and 13. 4B, the foremost label 1 is thereby detached from the carrier tape 1 a and pushed under the suction device 9, but has not yet reached its exact, final position, but is still missing, for example, a few millimeters.

Beim Ansprechen des Endschalters 16 wird nun durch das Steuergerät 15 der Motor 7a eingeschaltet, und das Abzugswalzenpaar 7 bewegt das Trägerband 1a mit geringer Geschwindigkeit so lange vorwärts, bis der Sensor 4 dem Steuergerät 15 die richtige Position des Etikettenbandes 1 anzeigt. Dieser Bewegungsvorgang ist in Fig. 4B durch den Pfeil 22 angedeutet. An seinem Ende befindet sich gemäß Fig. 4C das Etikett 1 genau unter dem Sauger 9, wie das auch in Fig. 2 dargestellt ist.When the limit switch 16 responds, the motor 7a is switched on by the control unit 15, and the pulling roller pair 7 moves the carrier tape 1a forward at a low speed until the sensor 4 indicates to the control unit 15 the correct position of the label tape 1. This movement process is indicated by the arrow 22 in FIG. 4B. According to FIG. 4C, the label 1 is located at its end exactly under the suction device 9, as is also shown in FIG. 2.

Zu diesem Zeitpunkt wird durch das Steuergerät 15 die Bremse 5 eingeschaltet und preßt daß Etikettenband 1 gegen den Tisch 21. Alsdann wird der Linearantrieb 10 abgeschaltet, indem z.B. bei einem Pneumatikzylinder dieser drucklos gemacht wird, und der Motor 7a wird auf schnellen Vorschub geschaltet, so daß das Abzugswalzenpaar 7 das Trägerband 1 a so lange abzieht und der Aufwickelrolle 8 zuführt, bis die Etikettenablösekante 6 durch das Trägerband 1a wieder in ihre Ausgangslage zurückgezogen ist, also gegen den Anschlag 13 anliegt, wobei der Endschalter 17 ein entsprechendes Signal abgibt. Durch diesen raschen Abzugsvorgang wird das Trägerband 1 a vollends von dem Etikett 1 b abgezogen, das sich auf dem Sauger 9 befindet und durch Vakuum an diesem festgehalten wird.At this time, the control unit 15 switches on the brake 5 and presses the label strip 1 against the table 21. Then the linear drive 10 is switched off, e.g. in a pneumatic cylinder this is depressurized, and the motor 7a is switched to rapid feed, so that the pulling roller pair 7 pulls the carrier tape 1a and feeds the take-up reel 8 until the label peeling edge 6 is pulled back into its starting position by the carrier tape 1a , that is, against the stop 13, the limit switch 17 emitting a corresponding signal. Due to this rapid removal process, the carrier tape 1 a is completely removed from the label 1 b, which is located on the sucker 9 and is held onto it by vacuum.

Zur Erzielung eines gleichmäßig ebenen Anliegens des Trägerbandes 1 a an der Etikettenablösekante 6 erfolgt diese Abzugsbewegung mit Vorteil gegen eine Bremskraft, z.B., wie dargestellt, gegen die Kraft einer Feder 25 mit flacher Federkennlinie, oder gegen die Kraft eines - nicht dargestellten - einseitig wirkenden Dämpfzylinders. (Naturgemäß befindet sich die Feder 25 bei Fig. 1 nicht im Spalt zwischen dem Sauger 9 und dem Etikettiergut 12, sondern z.B. vor oder hinter diesem Spalt.)In order to achieve a uniformly flat contact of the carrier tape 1 a on the label detaching edge 6, this pull-off movement advantageously takes place against a braking force, for example, as shown, against the force of a spring 25 with a flat spring characteristic, or against the force of a one-sided damping cylinder (not shown) . (Naturally, the spring 25 in FIG. 1 is not in the gap between the suction device 9 and the goods to be labeled 12, but rather, for example, in front of or behind this gap.)

Befindet sich die Etikettenablösekante 6 wieder in ihrer Ausgangslage, wie sie in Fig. 3 und in Fig. 4D dargestellt ist, so kann der als Etikettenübergabeorgan dienende Sauger 9 das Etikett auf das Etikettiergut 12 übergeben, wie daß die Fig. 3 und 4D ebenfalls zeigen.If the label detaching edge 6 is again in its initial position, as shown in FIG. 3 and in FIG. 4D, the suction device 9 serving as the label transfer element can transfer the label onto the product to be labeled 12, as is also shown in FIGS. 3 and 4D .

Anschließend wird durch das Steuergerät 15 der Sauger 9 mittels seines Antriebs 9a wieder in seine Ruhelage zurückgefahren, und danach kann der beschriebene Zyklus von neuem beginnen.The control unit 15 then moves the suction device 9 back into its rest position by means of its drive 9a, and the cycle described can then start again.

Durch den Rückhub, also die Abzugsbewegung, der Etikettenblösekante 6 kommt dabei jeweils wieder ein Etikett 1 b so auf diese zu liegen, daß dessen Vorderkante bündig mit dem linken Ende der Etikettenablösekante 6 abschließt, und dies kann durch Einstellen des Anschlags 13 justiert werden.Due to the return stroke, i.e. the pulling-off movement, the label peeling edge 6 each time a label 1b comes to rest on it so that its front edge is flush with the left end of the label peeling edge 6, and this can be adjusted by adjusting the stop 13.

Wie die Fig. 1 - 3 zeigen, wird das Etikettenband 1 nur an der Umlenkrolle 20 umgelenkt, z.B, um 45°, und dann an der Etikettenablösekante 6 um 180°, so daß das Etikettenband 1 beim Einlegen in die Maschine etwa die Form einer langgestreckten Haarnadel einnimmt. Dadurch ist es sehr leicht einzulegen, und die gesamte erfindungsgemäße Etikettiervorrichtung hat einen extrem flachen Aufbau, so daß auch zwei solche Vorrichtungen Rücken an Rücken verwendet werden können. Z.B. könnte man sich eine Spiegelebene durch die Längsachse des Linearantriebs 10 denken, an welcher der obere Teil der Fig. 1 gespiegelt würde, und man hätte dann zwei Etikettiervorrichtungen, welche das Etikettiergut 12 von oben und von unten etikettieren könnten. Wichtig ist auch, daß durch die Erfindung die Bildung von "Blasen" im Etikettierband 1 im Bereich der Etikettenablösekante 6 vermieden und dadurch die Etikettiergenauigkeit erhöht wird. Außerdem ergibt sich durch die Erfindung ein geringer Hub der Etikettenablösekante 6 für die Ubergabe der Etiketten 1b, was die Arbeitsgeschwindigkeit ebenfalls erhöht, und außerdem - infolge der geringen Dicke der Etigettenablösekante 6 - ein sehr geringer Hub des Etikettenübergabeorgans 9, besonders im Vergleich zur Vorrichtung nach der DE - A 3 233 546.As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the label tape 1 is deflected only on the deflection roller 20, for example, by 45 ° , and then on the label detaching edge 6 by 180 ° , so that the label tape 1 is approximately in the form of a when inserted into the machine elongated hairpin. This makes it very easy to insert, and the entire labeling device according to the invention has an extremely flat structure, so that two such devices can also be used back to back. For example, one could imagine a mirror plane through the longitudinal axis of the linear drive 10, on which the upper part of FIG. 1 would be mirrored, and one would then have two labeling devices which could label the goods to be labeled 12 from above and from below. It is also important that the invention prevents the formation of "bubbles" in the labeling tape 1 in the area of the label detaching edge 6 and thereby increases the labeling accuracy. In addition, the invention results in a small stroke of the label peeling edge 6 for the transfer of the labels 1b, which also increases the working speed, and moreover - due to the small thickness of the label peeling edge 6 - a very small stroke of the label transfer member 9, especially in comparison to the device DE - A 3 233 546.

Naturgemäß sind im Rahmen des Grundgedankens der vorliegenden Erfindung zahlreiche Abwandlungen und Modifikationen möglich.Naturally, numerous modifications and modifications are possible within the framework of the basic idea of the present invention.

Claims (14)

1. A mefhod of dispensing labels (1 b) from a label strip (1) which comprises a carrier strip (1a) and adhesive labels adhering to it, in which the carrier strip (1a), coming from a delivery roll (2) and passing to a device (8) for winding up the carrier strip, is looped around a label detaching edge (6) and the label (1b) is transferred to a label transfer element (9), e.g. a moving suction head, which transfers the detached label (1 b) to the goods (12) to be labelled, with the following steps:
a) in a first partial feeding movement (Fig. 4B) of a new label (1b) towards the label transfer element (9) the carrier strip (1 a) is immobilised at a position after the label detaching edge (6) and the latter is moved in the label feeding direction by a linear drive (10);
b) then in a second partial feeding movement (Fig. 4C) the label (1b) is positioned precisely in front of the label transfer element (9) by a rotating drive (7) located at a position after the label detaching edge (6);
c) after precise positioning has been achieved, the label strip (1) is immobilised (5) at a position before the label detaching edge (6) and the latter is retracted to its initial position, preferably by means of said rotating drive (7) and by pulling off the carrier strip (la) in the direction of the device (8) for winding up the carrier strip.
2. A method as in claim 1, characterised in that the carrier strip (1 a) is pulled off against the force of a damper acting in one direction and/or a spring (25) with a flat spring characteristic.
3. A method as in claim 1 or 2, characterised in that in the first partial feeding movement (Fig. 4B) the label detaching edge (6) is moved somewhat less than half the label length (D) or somewhat less than half the label spacing in the label feeding direction.
4. A method as in one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in the first partial feeding movement (Fig. 4B) the feeding movement is limited by a stop (11) which is preferably adjustable to different label lengths.
5. A method as in one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the linear drive (10) is designed to operate only in the feeding direction.
6. A device for implementing the method as in one of the preceding claims, with the following features:
a label detaching edge (6) around which the carrier strip (1 a) is looped, coming from a delivery roll (2) and passing to a device (8) for winding up the carrier strip,
a label transfer element (9), e.g. a moving suction head, which transfers the detached label (1 b) to the goods (12) to be labelled,
a linear drive (10) to drive the label detaching edge (6) in the label feeding direction, a device (7) for immobilising the carrier strip (1 a) at a point after the label detaching edge (6),
a sensor (4) for the particular label position, an immobilising brake (5) located at a position before the label detaching edge (6) for actuation during the refraction of the label detaching edge (6),
and a control unit (15) to control the elements named above.
7. A device as in claim 6, characterised in that the carrier strip (1a) deflected in the opposite direction is guided in a rotating drive (7, 7a) which when stationary immobilises the carrier strip (1a) and in operation makes it possible to position the deflected carrier strip (1 a) precisely, preferably at slow speed, and to pull it off rapidly in comparison with the positioning speed.
8. A device as in claim 6 or 7, characterised in that the linear drive (10) takes the form of a working cylinder, preferably a pneumatic working cylinder, or of an electric linear motor.
9. A device as in one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that an adjustable stop (11, 13) is provided to limit the delivery stroke and/or to limit the return stroke of the linear drive (10).
10. A device as in one of claims 6 to 9, characterised in that an end position damper is provided to damp the delivery stroke and/or the return stroke of the linear drive (10).
11. A device as in one of claims 6 to 10, characterised in that at least one sensor (16, 17) is provided to recognise the end position of the linear drive (10).
12. A device as in one of claims 6 to 11, characterised in that the rotating drive (7, 7a) for the carrier strip (1 a) takes the form of a stepper motor, or of a motor with a disk rotor, or of a motor provided with a controllable clutch.
13. A device as in one of claims 6 to 12, characterised in that the control unit (15) comprises a microprocessor.
14. A device as in one of claims 6 to 13, characterised in that a continually acting brake (3) is provided between the delivery roll (2) and the label detaching edge (6) to maintain the required tension in the label strip (1).
EP87107873A 1986-06-03 1987-05-31 Method and device for dispensing labels adhering to a carrier strip Expired - Lifetime EP0248375B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT87107873T ATE55341T1 (en) 1986-06-03 1987-05-31 METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISPENSING LABELS ADHESIVE TO A BACKING TAPE.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE3618542 1986-06-03
DE19863618542 DE3618542A1 (en) 1986-06-03 1986-06-03 METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DONATING LABELS STICKING ON A CARRIER TAPE

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0248375A1 EP0248375A1 (en) 1987-12-09
EP0248375B1 true EP0248375B1 (en) 1990-08-08

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ID=6302132

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP87107873A Expired - Lifetime EP0248375B1 (en) 1986-06-03 1987-05-31 Method and device for dispensing labels adhering to a carrier strip

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0248375B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE55341T1 (en)
DE (2) DE3618542A1 (en)

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CN105129703A (en) * 2015-07-24 2015-12-09 镇江市顶智微电子科技有限公司 Washing, screening, conveying, filling, cap screwing and labelling system for medical chemical biological reagent bottles

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DE9206076U1 (en) * 1992-05-07 1993-09-09 Heinrich Hermann GmbH + Co, 70327 Stuttgart Labeling machine
DE4217654A1 (en) * 1992-05-27 1993-12-02 Etifix Etikettiersysteme Gmbh Method and device for applying self-adhesive labels to containers
DE4232279C1 (en) * 1992-09-25 1993-10-21 Lohmann Therapie Syst Lts Transfer process for the production of transdermal therapeutic systems
DE9401424U1 (en) * 1994-01-28 1994-06-16 Logopak Systeme Christopher Hastings-Long, 24628 Hartenholm Device for dispensing and depositing self-adhesive fabrics
DE29519702U1 (en) * 1995-12-12 1996-02-01 Mcs-Micronic Computer Systeme Gmbh, 12101 Berlin Device for applying labels to a recording tape
FR2797250B1 (en) * 1999-08-03 2001-12-14 Jean Pierre Libre METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TAKING SELF-ADHESIVE LABELS FOR THEIR APPLICATION FROM A SUPPORT STRIP
FI115122B (en) * 2003-03-25 2005-03-15 Perlos Oyj Product solution device and method for its use
WO2006030456A1 (en) * 2004-09-13 2006-03-23 Pricer Ab Apparatus for sticking on labels
DE102007047601A1 (en) * 2007-10-05 2009-04-09 Schulz Farben- Und Lackfabrik Gmbh Method for labeling containers, especially pigment material containers, has printed adhesive labels supplied individually to dispenser
CN102923518B (en) * 2012-10-25 2015-04-15 苏州优备精密电子有限公司 Adhesive tape laminating machine
JP6417744B2 (en) * 2014-06-19 2018-11-07 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Label peeling device, liquid ejection device, and label peeling method
DE102019135368A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-24 Weber Marking Systems Gmbh Label dispenser and label tape
CN113428461A (en) * 2020-03-23 2021-09-24 青岛海尔电冰箱有限公司 Labelling device

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US8012279B2 (en) 2003-09-20 2011-09-06 Herma Gmbh Labeling method and device
CN105129703A (en) * 2015-07-24 2015-12-09 镇江市顶智微电子科技有限公司 Washing, screening, conveying, filling, cap screwing and labelling system for medical chemical biological reagent bottles

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE3764188D1 (en) 1990-09-13
DE3618542C2 (en) 1988-05-26
ATE55341T1 (en) 1990-08-15
EP0248375A1 (en) 1987-12-09
DE3618542A1 (en) 1987-12-10

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