EP1904390B1 - Device and method for splicing strips of labels - Google Patents

Abstract

A process and a device for the splicing of label bands having a conveying device for the forward movement of a first forward label band and of a second trailing label band along a transport path, and a splicing station for exerting a splicing pressure during the transport. In order to ensure that the splicing can be carried out reliably and precisely, even at high band speeds there is provided within the transport path in front of the splicing station, a separating device for the formation of a defined end edge on the trailing end of the forward label band.

Description

The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for splicing label strips of the type described in the preambles of claims 1, 25 and 16, 17, respectively.

A recurrent problem with labeling machines is the fact that used label tapes must be connected to a new label tape without changing the production speed or production parameters. There are a variety of devices of this type are known. For example, shows the DE-OS 195 29 866 , which was taken into account in the formulation of the generic terms, a S. splicing device with a plurality of opposing roles. In particular, the splicer includes an anvil roll and a pressure roller located directly at the splice site. Anvil roll and pressure roller are located on both sides of the label strip, so that the label strip passes between the two rollers. The pressure roller is movable in the direction of the anvil roll and can briefly exert a higher pressure on the intermediate label tape. After these two roles, two pairs of Nachrückrollen are preferably provided, one of which is resiliently mounted in each pair. Again, the label tape passes between the rollers of each pair. The resilient Nachdrückrolle constantly exerts a depending on the need according to the thickness of the label strip adjustable contact pressure on the opposite, fixed Nachdrückrolle the same pair.

Each label tape to be used in this splicer must be equipped at its trailing end with a special adhesive layer and a signal generator which controls the splicing operation; There are therefore only special label tapes to use. The conveying path in front of the splicing device contains two branches, which are alternately used to convey the leading and trailing label strips. In the currently not active branch of the conveying path a label tape is held in readiness, so that it can be attached immediately and without interruption of production to the trailing end of the leading, old label tape. At least one label is manually removed from the new label tape and the thus prepared beginning inserted into the splicing device, to the pressure roller. If the approaching end of the old label band is now signaled by the signal transmitter at the trailing end of the old label band, the label-free beginning of the new label band is pressed in the direction of the adhesive at the end of the old label band as soon as it is in the gap between the anvil roller and the pressure roller located. Subsequently, the splice passes through the Nachdrückrollen, with a further pressure on the splice with the overlapping spliced band areas is exercised. However, it is unavoidable that this pressure is exerted on the labels, which could complicate the subsequent detachment of the labels. In addition, the known device requires a great deal of care from the operator when preparing and inserting the trailing new label tape. It must In any case, ensure that the label-free beginning is positioned so that the entire adhesive area after splicing is on the carrier tape of the trailing label tape and does not project beyond the beginning edge or on a label. On the other hand, however, the distance between the last label before the splice and the first label after the splice should not be too large. To further aggravate the fact that the label-free beginning must move together with the pressure roller in the direction of the anvil roll, so that an operator must also take into account the time required for this movement and the longer path required for this, which is difficult to do manually.

The DE 31 19 109 shows a device and a method for changing supply rolls in a labeling machine, in which a drive withdraws a label-carrying carrier web from a first or second supply roll and feeds an intermittently promotional label dispenser. To perform the change automatically and without interrupting the Etikettierbetiiebs, a memory loop is generated between the drive and the label dispenser.

The invention is thus based on the object to provide an apparatus and a method for splicing tape labels, with which the label tapes can be spliced without a high, experience prerequisite, manual effort accurately and at high speed.

As a result of the configuration according to the invention, a defined end edge and / or a defined splice region is produced during the conveyance of the leading label strip on the leading label strip whose position can be accurately determined and tracked. This eliminates the need to position a label tape exactly in the conveying path.

By arranged in the conveying path in front of the splicing station separating device can do without manual work an exact defined end edge of the leading label tape are generated, the distance to the splicing station is known. In addition, the most unusable last labels a label tape can be separated without the need for additional manual effort.

By arranged in the conveying path in front of the splicing station label removal device, a label-free splice region can be generated at a defined location on the leading label tape without manual work.

The cutting of the end edge and / or the removal of the label to form the splice region is carried out by one of the usual deflection edges, this deflecting edge is assigned according to the invention a guide recess into which the label tape can be pressed as soon as the tape is separated and / or a label detached got to. As a result, the deflection can be set in a structurally simple way during conveying out of action, but can be activated immediately as soon as it is needed.

Use both the separator and the label removal device, the same deflection, so simplifies the control, since the mutual relationship of the devices to each other and the deflection is established.

The use of a pressure roller mounted on a pivoting lever for pressing the label strip into the guide recess represents a structurally simple and the conveying speed as little as possible influencing possibility.

A removable label receiving surface provided on the label removal means provides a means of removing the detached label in a defined manner without the risk of the label sticking to undesired locations.

Conveniently, the receiving surface is connected to the pivot lever such that both could be brought together in their operative position and swung out of this operative position.

It is particularly advantageous if the splicing station contains splice jaws which can be pressed against the label band and which are movable along a predetermined region of the conveying path. In this way, it is ensured that the pressure applied to solidify the splice can be applied uniformly and uniformly over the entire splice without printing on any labels. A particularly simple way to move the splice jaws, the entrainment by the movement of the label tape. For this purpose, the splice blocks are displaceable along a guide.

To facilitate insertion of the trailing new label tape, the splice station includes a suction mount therefor.

The division of the conveying path in front of the splicing station into two equal branches, each branch of which is provided with at least one respective label removal device, but may also each contain a separating device, simplifies the operation of the device and reduces the type and number of movements to be performed by the label tapes.

The control of the device according to the invention is particularly simple, and in principle requires only a sensor which detects a position of a label in the conveying path, preferably after the splicing station. If this position is known, it can be determined from the known distance of the sensor to the separator and / or the label removal device and from the known dimensions of the label tape, i. In particular, the dimension of the labels in the conveying direction and the distance between the labels on the label tape, to be determined exactly when can be cut and where cut or when a label is in a position where it can be removed from the label tape. With this sensor can be further determined how large the gap caused by the gap between the immediately before the splice and the immediately after the splice is arranged label, which can optionally be used to control subsequent labeling or the like.

It can also be provided in the broadest sense, a second sensor by which it can be determined when the leading label tape will be used up.

To form a defined reference edge at the splice, the trailing label tape should also be cut. Since in the apparatus according to the invention and the method according to the invention, the beginning of the trailing label tape does not have to be label-free, this can be done in the usually very narrow space between two labels, so that the This resulting initial edge is in a largely optimal register alignment with the labels. Also in this way an excessive gap between the labels in front of and behind the splice is avoided.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Draufsicht auf eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung während des normalen Förderbetriebs, und

Fig. 2

die Draufsicht auf die Vorrichtung nach Fig. 1, 1, kurz vor dem Spleißen.

An embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

a schematic plan view of a device according to the invention during the normal conveying operation, and

Fig. 2

the top view of the device after Fig. 1, 1st , just before splicing.

From the Fig. 1 and 2 an apparatus 1 according to the invention for splicing label strips 2 and 3 is provided. The label bands 2, 3 are of conventional type and each contain a carrier tape 4, on one side of which self-adhesive labels 5 of the same size and with uniform spacing are preferably applied, which are detachable from the carrier tape 4 in a labeling machine. The label strips 2, 3 are identical in their design. Furthermore, to simplify the illustration, labels 5 are drawn only on a part of the label tape 2, although both label tapes 2, 3 are provided with the labels 5.

The size of the labels 5 and their spacing on the carrier tape 4 of both label tapes 2, 3 are known and can be set to a not shown control.

Both label bands 2, 3 are withdrawn from a supply, for example a supply roll on a conventional turntable, or the like, not shown, and with the aid of a Conveyor 6, which is a driven belt roller in the illustrated embodiment, conveyed in a conveying direction A by the device 1.

The device 1 contains a splicing station 7 in which a label strip 2 leading in the conveying direction A, in this case the label strip 2, when this ends, a second, new, trailing label strip, in this case the label strip 3, is added that the device 1 leaves a continuous train of labels.

The splicing station 7 is designed for splicing the label strips 2, 3 during their conveying movement in the direction A. For this purpose, the splicing station includes a first splicing jaw 8a and a second splicing jaw 8b. The splice jaws 8a, 8b are located on both sides of the label strip, wherein in the illustrated embodiment, the splice jaws 8a of the label side of the carrier 4 and the splice jaws 8b faces the back of the carrier 4. The splice jaws 8a, 8b are normally opposite each other at a distance a, which allows unhindered passage through a complete label band and thickening, as is caused by a splice point explained below. However, the splice jaws 8a, 8b are movable towards and away from each other in the direction of the double arrow B, so that the distance a is reduced and the splice jaws 8a, 8b can exert pressure on the label strip located therebetween.

The splice jaws 8a, 8b are further movable along the double arrows C parallel to the conveying direction A, so that they can move together with the label tape and at the same speed.

The splice jaws 8a, 8b are guided in their movement along the double arrows C by a guide 9a, 9b, which in the present embodiment is a recirculating ball guide. In particular, the guide 9a, 9b each contain a guide rod, the defined front and rear end stops 10 are assigned, so that the splice jaws 8a, 8b between the end stops 10 are ball-bearing displaced.

The pressing movement B of the splicing jaws 8a, 8b is effected by suitable means, for example pneumatically. The movement along the double arrow C is effected by the moving in the conveying direction A label tape, the splice jaws 8 a, 8 b are pressed symmetrically to each other and from both sides with a force against the label strip sufficient that the splicing jaws 8 a, 8 b through the label tape be dragged along.

Each of the splice jaws 8a, 8b is respectively provided with a holder 12, with which a trailing label tape 3 can be held in the ready position. For overlapping splicing with the aid of a double-sided adhesive tape 11, this is prepared in a suitable manner and fastened at the defined distance to a defined starting edge of the trailing label tape 3 on the back of the carrier 4 facing away from the labels 5. Then the trailing label tape 3 is inserted into the splicing station 7 and secured with the label side to the bracket 12 on the associated splice jaws 8a, 8b. The holder is formed in the present embodiment as a vacuum bar. In this position, the trailing label tape 3 remains in the ready position until a splicing operation is required.

In the conveying direction before the splicing station 7, a first branch W1 and a second branch W2 converge to form a common conveying path W3. The splicing station 7 is located in the common conveyor path W3. In the conveyor paths W1 and W2, there are respectively provided a label removal device 13a or 13b, which are expediently identically designed, so that subsequently only those in the Fig. 1 and 2 active label removal means 13a will be described. The label removal device 13a includes a deflection edge 14 for a sharp deflection of the conveying direction of the label strip. The deflecting edge 14 delimits a guide recess 15, which in the present exemplary embodiment has a semicircular shape, preferably semi-circular, for receiving a pressure roller 16. The deflecting edge 14 is located closer to the label strip than the guide recess 15 and points against the conveying direction A. The deflecting edge 14 and the guide recess 15 are located at a fixed, known location in the conveying path W1, W2 and on the backside of the carrier 4 facing away from the labels 5 ,

The pressure roller 16 is rotatably mounted on a pivot lever 17 and is located on the label side of the carrier 4. The pivot lever 17 can be moved in the direction of arrow D so that the pressure roller 16 against the label side of the label tape 2 and, taking the label tape, in the guide recess 15 can be pressed as shown in FIG Fig. 2 is shown. If now the promotion of the label tape 2 continued in the direction A, then labels 5 are released during the transition over the deflection edge 14 from the carrier 4, as in Fig. 2 is shown.

For a controlled disposal of the detached labels 5, a receiving surface 18 is simultaneously with the pivoting lever 17 pivotable in a position at which the detached labels accumulate on the receiving surface 18 and can then be removed by the receiving surface 18. The receiving surface 18 is preferably provided on a plate which is articulated via a suitable lever mechanism on the pivot lever 17, which ensures that the receiving surface 18 is taken during pivoting of the pivot lever 17 in the desired receiving position.

Each of the two branches W1, W2 of the conveying path W is further associated with a separating device 19a or 19b. The separating devices 19a and 19b are in turn formed identically so that only the separating device 19a of the conveying path branch W1 will be described below.

The separating device 19a forms a common unit with the label removal device 13a. The separating device 19a contains a knife 20, which is arranged on a knife block 21 and can be moved in the direction of the double arrow E. The movement of the knife block 21 and thus of the knife 20 preferably takes place pneumatically.

The knife 20 is arranged so that it cuts a label tape directly on the deflection edge 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the knife is disposed on the side facing away from the guide recess 15 and thus the label tape side facing the deflection edge 14 and is in its movement along the arrow E at the deflection edge 14 and is guided by it. The knife 20 is movable so that it is normally withdrawn in the conveying direction A behind the deflection edge 14 and is moved only above the deflection edge 14 for cutting. The device 1 includes a not shown control device which is connected to a first sensor 22. The first sensor 22 may be any suitable device with which the position of a label 5 on the carrier 4 can be detected. The sensor 22 is arranged at a defined position in the conveying path, preferably in the conveying path W3 and in the conveying direction A behind the splicing station 7. The sensor 22 may for example comprise a device with which an edge of a label 5 can be detected, which extends transversely to the conveying direction A. , The control can also be the parameters of the label tape and the device, so for example, the size of the labels 5, their distance on the carrier 4, the speed, etc. are entered. Furthermore, the control device, the position of the sensor 22, the position of the splicing station 7, in particular the splicing jaws 8a, 8b known when they are located at the first in the conveying direction A from the label tape stop 10. Furthermore, the conveyor knows the position of the deflecting edge 14 and the point at which is cut, which coincides with the position of the deflecting edge 14 in the illustrated embodiment. The positions of the individual components can be determined by absolute position determinations or by determining the distances between them.

Furthermore, a second sensor 23 is provided with which, for example, the approaching end of a label strip currently in use can be detected. The sensor 23 thus informs the controller that soon a splicing operation must begin. Also, the sensor 23 activates the first sensor 22.

The control device may be further configured to operate in a subsequent Labeling machine or the like. Can intervene to compensate, for example, during splicing, larger gaps.

In the figure, the device 1 is shown in a state in which the first label tape 2 is fed via the conveying paths W1 and W3 of a labeling device, not shown, and used there for Etikettie-ren of vessels. In this state, the splice jaws 8a, 8b have a sufficient distance a from each other so as not to disturb the conveying movement. Furthermore, the pressure roller 16 of the separating device 19a and the label removing device 13a is pivoted back out of the conveying path W1 so that it does not touch the label tape 2. The knife 20 has been withdrawn behind the deflection edge 14.

A second label tape, the label tape 3, is in the ready position. The label tape 3 has already been provided with a defined initial edge, preferably by a cut between two consecutive labels 5. On the labels 5 facing away from the back of the carrier tape 4, at a predetermined, short distance to the defined starting edge, was already the double-sided adhesive strip 11 or any applied other adhesive and any existing masking paper removed. Then, the tape provided with the adhesive strip 11 beginning was inserted into the splicing station 7, in such a way that the label 5 faces the associated splicing jaw 8a. The holder, for example the vacuum bar 12, has been activated, so that the beginning of the label tape 3 is fixed at a defined location. The label tape 3 is guided tightly over the conveying path W2. Now, if the sensor 23 detects the approaching end of the label tape 2, a signal is generated. The sensor 22 is activated and seeks a prominent location on the label tape 2, for example an edge of a label. If this is found, then from the known parameters of the label tape 2 and the device 1, the time is determined at which a label is in a favorable position for detachment with respect to the deflection edge 14 of the label removal device 13a. Then the pivot lever 17 is pivoted with the pressure roller 16 with entrainment of the label tape 2 in the receiving recess, as shown in Fig. 2 is shown. At the same time, the receiving surface 18 is brought into the receiving position. The label tape 2 now passes between the pressure roller 16 and the recess 15 and experiences at the deflection edge 14 an abrupt change of direction, can be replaced by the labels. The pivoting is held until at least a part of a label 5 has been replaced. Once this is done, the knife block 21 is activated and cuts the carrier 4 behind the point at which the label or the label part has been replaced by. The pressure roller 16 remains pivoted in, so that a smooth, clean cut is guaranteed. In this way, a label-free splice region 24 is formed on the label tape 2, which is bounded by a defined cutting edge 24a. The splice region 24 with the marginal edge 24a now enters the splicing station 7. The time when this occurs and when the splice area 24 is in the correct splice position is determined by the controller via the parameters of the label tape and the device.

The splice region 24 is located in the splicing station 7 in such a way that the marginal edge 24a is still in the conveying direction A. behind the adhesive strip 11, the splice jaws 8a, 8b in the direction of arrow B to each other, with both splice jaws 8a, 8b are moved until the distance a is eliminated. The splice jaws 8a, 8b thus press the splice region 24 and the adhesive strip 11 against each other. The contact pressure of the splice jaws 8a, 8b is dimensioned such that on the one hand a good connection between the label strips 2 and 3 is achieved and on the other hand sufficient friction is generated that the moving in the conveying direction A label tape both splice jaws 8a, 8b in the direction of arrow C. , At or shortly before reaching the in Fig. 2 top stop 10 drive the splice jaws 8a, 8b apart again, and release the splice.

The sensor 22 can then detect the gap caused by the splice, i. it can be determined whether the distance between the last label before the splice and the first label after the splice is greater than normal. If this is the case, then the device-internal compensation possibility of the labeling machine can be utilized or the corresponding speeds can be adjusted, so that a continuous labeling without downtime can be achieved.

The label tape 3 is now fed as a leading label tape production. Meanwhile, another label tape can be brought to standby position via the conveying path W1. In this case, since the adhesive tape 11 has to be applied to the label side of the carrier 4, at least one label is manually peeled off and an initial edge cut to form a splicing region at a distance from the next label. If the sensor 23b now signals the approach of the end of the label strip 3 on the conveying branch W2, the sensor 22 is activated in the manner already described and the pressure roller 16 is pivoted into the guide recess of the separating and separating device 13b, 19b as soon as there is a gap between two successive labels 5 on the label tape 3 at the deflection edge 14 is located. At the same time, the knife 20 of the separating device 19b is activated and cuts through the label strip 3 to form a defined end edge between two labels 5. If it is calculated that the end edge approaches the splicing region in the region of the splicing station 7, then the splice jaws 8a, 8b are moved against one another for pressing, as already described above.

1. 1. Etikettenrolle auf den Folienteller des Spenders legen
2. 2. Bandanfang der Etikettenrolle auf dem Schneidetisch in der Lücke zwischen 1. und 2. Etikett durchschneiden
3. 3. Spezialklebeband 11 auf Länge schneiden (ca. 2 mm kürzer als Etikettenbandbreite)
4. 4. Klebstreifen 11 in ca. 1 - 2 mm Abstand von der Schnittkante auf der Rückseite des Etikettenbandes 3 aufkleben
5. 5. In Laufrichtung des Etiketts 5 gesehen die linke Seite der Verklebeeinheit öffnen
6. 6. Deckschicht des Klebebandes 11 abziehen und entsorgen
7. 7. Den so vorbereiteten Bandanfang positionsgenau an der Vakuumsaugleiste 12 anbringen
8. 8. Verklebung wieder schließen und verriegeln
9. 9. Etikettenrolle solange zurückdrehen bis das Etikettenband schlaufenfrei gespannt ist
10. 10. Wahlschalter auf "Rolle vorbereitet" stellen und quittieren
    Neue Etikettenrolle ist nun in Wartestellung bis die "Produktionerolle" aufgebracht ist.
11. 11. Sensor 23 erkennt absolutes Bandende
12. 12. Sensor 22 bekommt ein Signal vom Sensor 23
13. 13. Sensor 22 ist aktiviert und wartet auf die nächste "Flanke" (verursacht durch das vorbeilaufende Etikett 5)
14. 14. Ein parametrierter Wert, der etikettenabhängig ist, sorgt dafür, dass der Etikettenanfang (des Etiketts 5, das sich gerade an der Spendekante 14 befindet) sicher (3 - 5 mm) die Spendekante 14 passiert hat
15. 15. Ist dieser Wert erreicht, wird der Schwenkhebel 17 aktiv
16. 16. Die drehend gelagerte Rolle 16 drückt das Etikettenband, 5 in die Ausnehmung
17. 17. Die Rückseite des Trägerbandes 4 wird mit der Rolle 16 gegen die Ausnehmung 15 gedrückt
18. 18. Somit wird eine Spannung im Trägerband 4 erzeugt
19. 19. Das Etikett 5, dessen Anfang bereits die Spendenkante 14 passiert hat, verbleibt noch auf dem Trägerband 4
20. 20. Das nachfolgende Etikett 5 aber wird auf die miteinschwenkende Platte 18 ganz oder teilweise abgespendet
21. 21. Ist eine etikettenfreie Trägerbandlänge von ca. 40 mm (durch parametrierten Wert) erreicht, wird der Schneidvorgang eingeleitet
22. 22. Der Pneumatikzylinder 30 der Trenneinrichtung 19a fährt aus und durchtrennt mit einem Messer 20 das Trägerband 4 direkt an der Spendekante 14, wo die Spannung im Trägerband 4 am größten ist
23. 23. Das nun sauber geschnittene Bandende wird vom Bandantrieb (Dunkermotor Spendeaggregat) positionsgenau zur Spleißstation gefördert
24. 24. Meldet der Dunkermotor über die SPS "Verklebeposition erreicht", werden die beiden Spleißbacken 8a" 8b aktiviert
25. 25. Die Backen 8a, 8b fahren gleichzeitig aus und pressen das Bandende des "noch" Produktionsbandes mit dem Anfang der "neuen" Etikettenrolle zusammen
26. 26. Beide Spleißbacken 8a, 8b sind in Bandrichtung A verschiebbar gelagert und werden durch das laufende Etikettenband mitgeschleppt
27. 27. Nach einer parametrierten Strecke fahren beide Backen 8a,8b wieder ein, geben die Verklebestelle frei und werden durch Druckfedern in ihre Ausgangsposition zurückgestellt
28. 28. Die Produktion erfolgt nun von der "neuen" Etikettenrolle"
29. 29. Die Bedienperson kann nun die in Laufrichtung des Etikettenbandes gesehene rechte Seite der Verklebestation öffnen
30. 30. Abgespendete Etiketten 5 und den abgeschnittenen Etikettenbandrest sowie den Kern der verbrauchten Etikettenrolle entfernen und entsorgen
31. 31. Eine neue Etikettenrolle auf den frei gewordenen Folienteller auflegen
32. 32. Erstes Etikett 5 vom Trägerband 4 abziehen und entsorgen
33. 33. Trägerband 4 auf Schneidetisch ca. 30 mm vor Beginn des nächsten Etiketts 5 sauber und winkelgerecht abschneiden
34. 34. Spezialklebeband 11 auf Länge schneiden (ca. 2 mm kürzer als Etikettenbandbreite)
35. 35. Klebeband 11 im Abstand von ca. 5 mm zum nächsten Etikett 5 anbringen
36. 36. Deckschicht des Klebebandes 11 abziehen und entsorgen
37. 37. Den so vorbereiteten Bandanfang positionsgenau an der Vakuumsaugleiste 12 anbringen
38. 38. Verklebung wieder schließen und verriegeln
39. 39. Etikettenrolle solange zurückdrehen bis das Etikettenband schlaufenfrei gespannt ist
40. 40. Wahlschalter auf "rolle vorbereitet" stellen und quittieren
    "Neue Etikettenrolle" ist nun in Wartestellung bis die "Produktionsrolle" aufgebraucht ist.
41. 41. Sensor 23 erkennt absolutes Bandende
42. 42. Sensor 22 bekommt ein Signal von Sensor 23
43. 43. Sensor 22 ist aktiviert und wartet auf die nächste "Flanke" (verursacht durch das vorbeilaufende Etikett)
44. 44. Ein parametrierter Wert, der etikettenabhängig ist, sorgt dafür, dass eine Etikettenlücke zum Messer 20 der Trenneinheit positioniert wird
45. 45. Ist dieser Wert erreicht, wird die Trenneinheit aktiv
46. 46. Der Zylinder 30 fährt aus, drückt zuerst mit einem gefederten Element das Etikettenband 3 gegen einen Klotz und durchtrennt anschließend (in der gleichen Bewegung) das Trägerband in der Etikettenlücke
47. 47. Das nun sauber geschnittene Bandende wird vom Bandantrieb 6 (Dunkermotor Spendeaggregat) positionsgenau zur Spleißstation 7 gefördert
48. 48. Meldet der Dunkermotor über die SPS "Verklebeposition erreicht", werden die beiden Backen 8a, 8b aktiviert
49. 49. Die Backen 8a, 8b fahren gleichzeitig aus und pressen das bandende des "noch" Produktionsbandes mit dem Anfang der "neuen" Etikettenrolle zusammen
50. 50. Beide Backen 8a,8b sind in Bandrichtung A verschiebbar gelagert und werden durch das laufende Etikettenband mitgeschleppt
51. 51. Nach einer parametrierten Strecke fahren beide Backen 8a,8b wieder ein, geben die Verklebestelle frei und werden durch Druckfedern in ihre Ausgangsposition zurückgestellt
52. 52. Die Produktion erfolgt nun von der "neuen" Etikettenrolle
53. 53. Abgetrennten Etikettenbandrest entfernen und entsorgen
54. 54. Mit dem Auflagen einer neuen Etikettenrolle wiederholt sich der beschriebene Ablauf

A special procedure for splicing is described below based on a practical instruction:

1. 1. Place label roll on the foil plate of the dispenser
2. 2. Cut the beginning of the label roll on the cutting table in the gap between the 1st and 2nd label
3. 3. Cut special adhesive tape 11 to length (about 2 mm shorter than label tape width)
4. Stick adhesive tape 11 in approx. 1 - 2 mm distance from the cutting edge on the back of the label tape 3
5. 5. As seen in the running direction of the label 5, open the left side of the gluing unit
6. 6. Remove cover layer of adhesive tape 11 and discard
7. 7. Position the prepared strip beginning with exact position on the vacuum suction bar 12
8. 8. Close the bond again and lock
9. 9. Turn the label roll back until the label tape is tensioned without loops
10. 10. Set selector switch to "roll prepared" and acknowledge
    New label roll is now in waiting position until the "production roll" is applied.
11. 11. Sensor 23 detects absolute end of tape
12. 12. Sensor 22 receives a signal from the sensor 23
13. 13. Sensor 22 is activated and waits for the next "flank" (caused by the passing label 5)
14. 14. A parameterized value, which is label-dependent, ensures that the beginning of the label (the label 5, which is currently located at the dispensing edge 14) has safely passed (3 - 5 mm) the dispensing edge 14
15. 15. If this value is reached, the pivot lever 17 is active
16. 16. The rotatably mounted roller 16 presses the label tape, 5 in the recess
17. 17. The back of the carrier tape 4 is pressed with the roller 16 against the recess 15
18. 18. Thus, a voltage in the carrier tape 4 is generated
19. 19. The label 5, the beginning of which has already passed the donation edge 14, still remains on the carrier tape 4
20. 20. The following label 5 but is completely or partially dispensed to the miteinschwenkende plate 18
21. 21. If a label-free carrier tape length of approx. 40 mm (by parameterized value) is reached, the cutting process is initiated
22. 22. The pneumatic cylinder 30 of the separator 19a extends and cuts with a knife 20, the carrier tape 4 directly to the dispensing edge 14, where the voltage in the carrier tape 4 is greatest
23. 23. The now clean cut end of the tape is conveyed by the belt drive (Dunkermotor dispensing unit) with exact position to the splicing station
24. 24. If the Dunkermotor reports "gluing position reached" via the PLC, the two splice jaws 8a "8b are activated
25. 25. The jaws 8a, 8b extend at the same time and compress the end of the tape of the "still" production belt with the beginning of the "new" label roll
26. 26. Both splice jaws 8a, 8b are slidably mounted in the direction of tape A and are dragged by the current label tape
27. 27. After a parameterized distance, both jaws 8a, 8b retract, release the gluing point and are returned to their starting position by compression springs
28. 28. The production now takes place from the "new" label roll "
29. 29. The operator can now open the viewed in the direction of the label tape right side of the gluing station
30. 30. Remove and dispose of the dispensed labels 5 and the cut label tape remainder and the core of the used label roll
31. 31. Place a new label roll on the vacated foil plate
32. 32. Remove first label 5 from carrier tape 4 and discard
33. 33. Carefully cut carrier tape 4 on cutting table approx. 30 mm before beginning of next label 5 and at right angles
34. 34. Cut special adhesive tape 11 to length (about 2 mm shorter than label tape width)
35. 35. Attach adhesive tape 11 at a distance of approx. 5 mm to the next label 5
36. 36. Peel off and discard cover layer of adhesive tape 11
37. 37. Position the prepared strip beginning with exact position on the vacuum suction strip 12
38. 38. Close the adhesive bond again and lock
39. 39. Turn back the label roll until the label tape is tension-free
40. 40. Set selector switch to "roll prepared" and acknowledge
    "New label roll" is now in waiting until the "production roll" is used up.
41. 41. Sensor 23 detects absolute end of tape
42. 42. Sensor 22 receives a signal from sensor 23
43. 43. Sensor 22 is activated and waits for the next "flank" (caused by the passing label)
44. 44. A parameterized value, which is label-dependent, causes a label gap to be positioned to knife 20 of the separation unit
45. 45. When this value is reached, the separation unit becomes active
46. 46. The cylinder 30 extends, first presses the label tape 3 against a block with a sprung element, and then cuts (in the same motion) the carrier tape in the label gap
47. 47. The now clean cut end of the tape is conveyed by the belt drive 6 (Dunkermotor dispensing unit) positionally accurate to the splicing station 7
48. 48. If the Dunkermotor reports "gluing position reached" via the PLC, the two jaws 8a, 8b are activated
49. 49. The jaws 8a, 8b extend at the same time and press the band end of the "still" production band together with the beginning of the "new" label roll
50. 50. Both jaws 8a, 8b are slidably mounted in the direction of tape A and are dragged by the current label tape
51. 51. After a parameterized distance, both jaws 8a, 8b retract, release the gluing point and are returned to their initial position by compression springs
52. 52. Production now takes place from the "new" label roll
53. 53. Remove and discard the separated label tape remainder
54. 54. With the application of a new label roll, the procedure described is repeated

In a modification of the described and illustrated embodiment, the splicing station can also be provided with driven follower clamping devices, for example a conveyor belt or the like. Rollers or similar elements can be used instead of the jaws. The label removing means provided in the second conveying branch may be omitted, if it is otherwise ensured that the separator can perform a clean cut at a defined location.

Claims (23)

1. Device for splicing strips of labels, comprising a conveying device (6) for conveying a first leading and a second following strip of labels (2, 3) along a conveying path (W), and a splicing station (7) for exerting a splicing pressure during conveying, a severing device (19a, 19b) being provided upstream of the splicing station (7) in the conveying direction (A) for automatically forming an end edge (24a, 34a), which is defined in the conveying path (W), on the trailing end of the leading strip of labels (2, 3), characterised in that a label-removing device (13a) is arranged for forming a splicing region (24) by removing at least a part of a label (5) from the trailing end of the leading strip of labels (2) during conveying.
2. Device for splicing strips of labels, comprising a conveying device (6) for conveying a first leading and a second following strip of labels (2, 3) along a conveying path (W), and a splicing station (7) for exerting a splicing pressure during conveying, characterised in that a label-removing device (13a) for forming a splicing region (24) by removing at least a part of a label (5) from the trailing end of the leading strip of labels (2) during conveying is arranged upstream of the splicing station (7) in the conveying direction (A).
3. Device according to Claim 2, characterised in that a severing device (19a, 19b) for producing an end edge (24a), which is defined in the conveying path (W), on the trailing end of the splicing region (24) is provided upstream of the splicing station (7) in the conveying direction (A).
4. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the label-removing device (13a, 13b) has a deflecting edge (14) which borders a guide recess (15) for the strip of labels (2, 3), and in that an application device (16) is provided for pressing the strip of labels (2, 3) into the guide recess (15).
5. Device according to Claim 1, characterised in that the severing device (19a, 19b) has a deflecting edge (14) which borders a guide recess (15) for the strip of labels (2, 3), and in that an application device (16) is provided for pressing the strip of labels (2, 3) into the guide recess (15).
6. Device according to Claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the deflecting edge (14) is associated both with the severing device (19a, 19b) and with the label-removing device (13a).
7. Device according to Claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the application device has a pressing roller (16) mounted on a pivoted lever (17).
8. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the label-removing device (13a) has a receiving surface (18) for the removed label (5).
9. Device according to Claims 7 and 8, characterised in that the receiving surface (18) is connected in an entrainable manner to the pivoted lever (17).
10. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the splicing station (7) has splicing jaws (8a, 8b) which can be pressed against the strip of labels (2, 3) and which are configured to be movable along a predetermined region of the conveying path (W3), in particular to be entrainable by the strip of labels (2, 3).
11. Device according to Claim 10, characterised in that the splicing jaws (8a, 8b) are displaceable along a guide (9a, 9b).
12. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the splicing station (7) has a holding device (12), in particular a suction holding device, for the following strip of labels (3).
13. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterised in that the conveying path (W) has upstream of the splicing station (7) a first and a second branch (W1, W2), each branch (W1, W2) being provided at least with a severing device (19a, 19b), and each branch (W1, W2) being configured to convey the leading and following strip of labels (2, 3) alternately.
14. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 13, characterised in that a first sensor (22) for detecting a position of a label (5) is provided downstream of the splicing station (7).
15. Device according to Claim 14, characterised in that a second sensor (23a, 23b) is provided for detecting a state of depletion of the leading strip of labels (2, 3).
16. Method for splicing strips of labels, in which a leading, first strip of labels (2, 3) conveyed along a conveying path is connected during conveying to a following second strip of labels (3, 2) conveyed along the conveying path at a splicing station (7), an end edge, which is defined in the conveying path, being produced on the leading strip of labels (2, 3) prior to splicing and during conveying, characterised in that a label-free splicing region is produced on the leading strip of labels (2, 3) prior to splicing and during conveying by removing at least a part of the label (5) from the leading strip of labels (2, 3).
17. Method for splicing strips of labels, in which a leading, first strip of labels (2, 3) conveyed along a conveying path is connected during conveying to a following second strip of labels (3, 2) conveyed along the conveying path at a splicing station (7), characterised in that a label-free splicing region is produced on the leading strip of labels (2, 3) prior to splicing and during conveying by removing at least one label (5) from the leading strip of labels (2, 3).
18. Method according to Claim 17, characterised in that the leading strip of labels (2, 3) is cut prior to splicing.
19. Method according to Claim 16 or 17, characterised in that, prior to the removal of the label (5), the position of at least one comparative label downstream of the splicing station (7) is determined and used to control the removal.
20. Method according to any one of Claims 16 to 19, characterised in that, prior to the cutting of the leading strip of labels (2, 3), the position of at least one comparative label downstream of the splicing station (7) is determined and used to control the cutting.
21. Method according to any one of Claims 16 to 20, characterised in that, after splicing, the distance of the labels (5) located directly upstream and directly downstream of the splicing region is determined and used for controlling a following labelling process.
22. Method according to any one of Claims 16 to 21, characterised in that, during splicing, there is applied an application pressure which is maintained continuously over a partial length of the conveying path.
23. Method according to any one of Claims 16 to 22, characterised in that the following strip of labels (3, 2) is cut between two labels (5) and the starting edge produced is used as a reference edge when inserting the strip of labels in the splicing station (7).

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