EP3060378A1

EP3060378A1 - Method and device for arranging a label in a mould

Info

Publication number: EP3060378A1
Application number: EP13786547.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Willem Van Den Brink
Original assignee: Polymac BV
Current assignee: Polymac BV
Priority date: 2013-10-25
Filing date: 2013-10-25
Publication date: 2016-08-31
Also published as: WO2015060713A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an in-mould label positioning device adapted to position a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device. The in-mould label positioning device comprises a positioning table, which defines a position for a label with the backside of the label faces away from the table surface, a transfer head moveable between a label-receiving position outside the mould cavity and a label release position inside the mould cavity, and a transfer device, adapted to transfer the label from the positioning table to the transfer head. The transfer device is adapted to pick up the label from the positioning table by engaging the back side of the label, and to engage the front side of the label to dispense the label onto the transfer head with the front side of the label facing away from an outer wall of the transfer head.

Description

Title: Method and device for arranging a label in a mould The invention relates to an in-mould label positioning device adapted to position a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device, to a plastic injection mould comprising such a device, and to a method for positioning a label inside the mould of a plastic moulding device.

Plastic products, such as boxes, pots, bottles, or tubes (e.g. for receiving gases, liquids, or pastes), are obtained by moulding of plastics materials in a mould. Such a mould has a mould cavity for receiving the plastics material, which mould cavity defines the shape of the final product. A mould used for the injection moulding technique typically has at least two portions that move relative to each other: a female portion or "matrix" that has at least one cavity corresponding to the outside shape of the product that is to be manufactured, and a male portion or "core" that has at least one projecting portion corresponding to the inside face of the receptacle that is to be manufactured.

During the moulding process, plastic products are typically provided with labels. To provide the product with a label, the label is positioned inside the mould prior to the actual moulding process. Thus, when the product is formed inside the mould, the plastic material and the label adhere to each other and the product is provided with a label.

These labels typically are plain cut labels. The labels are transferred into the mould with a transfer head. A transfer device is used for placing the label onto the transfer head. In general, prior to each moulding cycle, a label is transferred into the mould cavity.

To correctly position the labels on the transfer head, the labels are often presented on a positioning table, which table is adapted to define a standard position of the label. Typically, a positioning table is provided with a support surface and a number of protrusions extending relative to the table surface. The protrusions are provided along the contour of a label positioned in the standard position. When placing a label on the positioning table between the protrusions, the protrusions form a stop that engages the edges of the label. Thus, the label is positioned in the standard position. A transfer member engages the label presented in the standard position using a clamp and/or suction cup system. The transfer member engages the side of the label facing away from the table surface, typically the front side of the label i.e. the side of the label visible on the final product. The transfer member picks up the label, moves it towards the transfer head and deposits it thereon such that the backside of the label, i.e. the side of the label that is attached to the final product, faces the transfer head. The transfer head is suitable for penetrating into the inside of the mould, in particular the inside of the mould part that defines the outside surface of the product. The transfer head is configured to apply a vacuum and/or static electricity to engage the label and keep the label in its position. After receiving the label, the transfer head is inserted into the mould where the label is released and thus transferred onto the mould. The label is positioned with its front side against the in-mould surface, such that the product can be moulded against the back of the label.

A draw back of the prior art is that the labels on the final products are often not accurately positioned.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative in-mould label positioning device adapted to position a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device. More in particular, the invention aims to provide a reliable in-mould label positioning device for supplying a label to a transfer head so as to be placed in position in the inside of a mould by the latter at a high level of accuracy in a label insert moulding operation.

According to the invention, this object is achieved with an in-mould label positioning device according to claim 1. It has been noted that the front side of a label is usually printed, as a result of which the labels tend to warp along their edges towards the printed surface of the label. Due to this warping, the edges of the label do no longer form a given stop for positioning the label, which reduces the accuracy in positioning such a label using a positioning table. Reliably and accurately placing the labels in a standard position is critical when the standard position determines the position of the label on the transfer head and thus determines the position of the label in the mould and therefore its position on the final product.

According to the invention, a label is positioned with its front side facing towards the positioning table. It has been found that this position of the label reduces the warping of the label, in particular along the edges of the label, and thus enhances the accuracy in positioning the label in a standard position using a positioning table. To enable this way of positioning a label with a positioning table, a transfer device according to the invention is adapted to engage the backside of the label and invert the label during its transfer from the positioning table to the transfer head such that the label is deposited on the transfer head with its backside facing the transfer head and its front side facing away from the transfer head.

An in-mould label positioning device according to the invention adapted to position a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device comprises a positioning table, a transfer head, and a transfer device.

The positioning table comprises a table surface. The positioning table defines a standard position for a label, in which a backside of the label faces away from the table surface and a front side of the label faces towards the table surface.

The positioning table allows for precisely positioning flat labels one by one, prior to being picked up by the transfer device. More in particular, the positioning table defines the position of the label on the table surface of the positioning table, and thus in a plane defined by that label. The label can be positioned by providing a recess in the table surface, the edges of which fit the contour of the label. Thus, by fitting the label in the recess, it is positioned. Alternatively, protrusions, for example in the form of pins, can be provided on the table surface such that they match the contour of a label in the standard position. Thus, by fitting a label between the pins the label is positioned in the standard position. Since the positioning table defines the position in which the label is picked up by the transfer device, the positioning table defines the position of the label on the transfer head, and therefore the position of the table in the mould. According to the invention, the label is positioned with its front side facing towards the table surface of the positioning table. This position of the label reduces the warping along the edges of the label because the weight of the label forces the warped sides outward. Therefore, when the label is placed on the table with its front facing downward, the contour of the label more closely matches the contour of a label without warped edges, and thus allows for more accuracy in positioning the label using the positioning table. The transfer head comprises an outer wall adapted to support the label with the front side of the label facing away from the wall. The transfer head is moveable between a label-receiving position outside the mould cavity and a label release position inside the mould cavity. The transfer head is thus configured for receiving a label, holding that label, transporting that label into the mould cavity, or part of that cavity, and release the label in the mould.

The transfer device is adapted to transfer the label from the positioning table, which defines the stand position of the label, to the transfer head. According to the invention, the transfer device comprises a first transfer member, a second transfer member, and a motion device.

The first transfer member is adapted to, in a pick-up position thereof, engage the back side of the label in the standard position on the positioning table, and to, in a take over position thereof, present the label for engagement by the second transfer member.

The second transfer member is adapted to, in a take over position thereof, engage the front side of the label presented by the first transfer member in its take over position, and to, in a dispense position thereof, dispense the label onto the transfer head.

By thus providing the transfer device with two transfer members, the transfer device is configured for transferring the label, from positioning table to the transfer head, and at the same time inverting the label, such that it can be pick-up from the positioning table by engaging the back side of the label and by delivered to the transfer head while engaging the front side of the label. The motion device of the transfer device comprises multiple actuators. The actuators can be provided in the form of electric drives, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, etc. in combination with guides, such as rails, linkage systems, etc. The motion device is adapted to move the first transfer member and the positioning table relative to each other between closely adjacent positions, with the first transfer member in its pick-up position adjacent the positioning table, and spaced apart positions, with the first transfer member in its take over position at a distance of the positioning table.

The motion device is furthermore adapted to move the first transfer member and the second transfer member relative to each other between their respective take over positions, wherein the first transfer member and the second transfer member are positioned adjacent each other such that the second transfer member can engage the front side of the label while the first transfer member retains the back side of the label and the first transfer member can disengage the backside of the label after the second transfer member has engaged the front side of the label, and spaced apart positions, wherein the first transfer member is in its pickup position and the second transfer member is in its dispensing position. The invention thus provides an alternative in-mould label positioning device, more in particular provides an alternative in-mould label positioning device that allows for enhanced precision with respect to positioning the label inside the mould. In an embodiment according to the invention, the device further comprises a label supply in the form of a magazine configured for holding a stack of labels, the magazine comprising a housing for holding the stack and for presenting the outward most label of the stack at a pickup area, and a pick-up device configured for picking one label at a time from the stack of labels held by the magazine and placing the label on the positioning table with the front side of the label facing downward.

In an embodiment, the magazine is configured as a back plate with multiple bars mounted thereon for supporting a vertical stack of labels. A pick-up device can be provided for picking one label at the time from the stack. In such a magazine the position at which the pick-up device engages the outer most label changes when the stack shrinks.

Alternatively, the magazine is provided with for example ratchets for both retaining the stack of labels between the ends of the bars and the back plate and for allowing removal of the outermost label, and a spring means for urging the back plate in the direction of the retaining means. In such an embodiment of the magazine the position at which the pick-up device engages the outer most label is at a constant position.

Alternatively, other types of label supply can be provided, for example, the labels can be provided by transport means, for example a transport track, which present the labels in a pick-up area from which they are picked up and placed on the positioning table.

It is noted that when the labels to be positioned on the position table are provided in a magazine or by a transport device, the magazine, transport device, etc. already defines the position of the label up to a certain extent. However, the main purpose of these systems is providing multiple labels, either in the form of a stack or in the form of a stream of labels. Therefore, they lack in the field of precisely positioning the labels. The positioning achievable with these systems is not satisfactory when it comes to defining a standard position for a label, i.e. the position representing the final position of the label on the product.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the positioning table is movably supported such that it is moveable, preferably such that it is translatable in a horizontal direction, between a first position for receiving a label from the stack, and a second position for presenting a label in its standard position. Such a table transports the label to the transfer device, in particular form a label supply to the transfer device. Thus, the transfer device does not need to move towards the table, or only to a certain extent, which allows for a label transfer device with a reduced number of movements. It is noted that the movements of the transfer device, in particular of the transfer members of the transfer device, advantageously are constricted to a limited amount of basic movements, such as translational movements and/or pivot movements only. Avoiding complicated and/or composite movements, allows for transfer members that can move fast and reliable, and still have great accuracy.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the positioning table has a table surface that extends in a substantially horizontal direction. With such a set up of the table warping of the label is evenly reduced along the contour of the label. Alternatively, the table can be set at an angle. Such a set up for example allows for using gravity to slide a label along the table surface into a standard position against stops provided on the table surface.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the table surface is provided with slits, and the positioning table comprises pins that are releasable mounted in those slits, such that the positions of the pins in the slits can be adjusted to match the contour, or part thereof, of the label and to thus define a standard position for the label. Thus, the table can be used with different types of labels, i.e. labels having different contours.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the table is provided with an air cushion to slightly lift the label, and thus lower friction between the label and the label surface, and to thus facilitate positioning of the label in its standard position.

According to the invention, the transfer device by way of the first and second transfer member engages the label provided in the standard position and holds the label during the transfer to the transfer head such that the position of the label on the transfer head is determined by the position of the label on the positioning table. According to the invention the transfer device is furthermore configured for picking up the label from the positioning table by engaging the backside of the label and for dispensing the label to the transfer head while engaging the front side of the label. The transfer device is therefore provided with a first and a second transfer member.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the first transfer member is pivotally supported by the transfer device, such that the first transfer member is pivotable about a substantially horizontal axis between its take over position and its pick-up position or an intermediate position.

In a further embodiment the first transfer member is provided in the form of multiple pivotally supported arms, which arms are provided with engagement devices, such as a vacuum device or suction cups, for engaging the back of the label. In an alternative embodiment, the first transfer member comprises a wide transfer plate having a flat surface to be positioned along the backside of the label in the pick-up position, and is provided with a vacuum device to adhere the label against the surface of the transfer plate. The surface of the transfer plate preferably is a smooth surface which further enables accurate label positioning and prevents possible label slippage during the critical transfer stages. A combination of a plate and arms is also possible.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the second transfer member is pivotally supported by the transfer device, such that the second transfer member can pivot about a substantially horizontal axis between its take over position and its deposit position or an intermediate position.

In a further embodiment the second transfer member is provided in the form of multiple pivotally supported arms, which arms are provided with engagement devices, such as a vacuum device or suction cups, for engaging the front of the label.

In an alternative embodiment, the second transfer member comprises a wide transfer plate having a flat surface to be positioned along the front side of the label presented by the first transfer member, and is provided with a vacuum device to adhere the label against the surface of the transfer plate. The surface of the transfer plate preferably is a smooth surface which further enables accurate label positioning and prevents possible label slippage during the critical transfer stages. A combination of a plate and arms is also possible.

A critical interrelationship between the first transfer member and the second transfer member is important when high label transfer speed and accurate label positioning are required. In an embodiment according to the invention the first transfer member and the second transfer member are both supported by a main support, which main support in turn is movably supported for movement, preferably for a translational movement, in the vertical direction, to enable synchronous movement of the first and second transfer member in the vertical direction.

By providing the transfer device with a moveably supported main support, which main support supports both the first and the second transfer member, the position and movement of the first and second transfer member relative to each other can be better controlled, which further allows to accurately deposits the label on the transfer head, and thus in the mould. Thus, providing the transfer device with a moveable main support for supporting the first transfer member and the second transfer member, consistent accuracy can be achieved.

In a further embodiment the first transfer member and/or the second transfer member is/are pivotally supported by the main support of the transfer device. Pivotally supporting the first and/or second transfer member further allows for accurately and rapidly moving transfer members, and thus for accurately and rapidly moving a label from the positioning table to the transfer head.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the dispense position of the second transfer member can be adjusted to match the clearance of the peripheral outer surface of the transfer head and the second transfer member can thus support a label parallel to the peripheral outer surface of the transfer head. The shape and the clearance of the transfer head are needed to fit the shape of the mould in which it has to deposit the label. Enabling the second transfer member to be matched with the clearance of the transfer head, allows for the in-mould label positioning device to be used with different transfer heads, and thus with different products.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the motion device is further adapted to move the first transfer member in a vertical direction, preferably to translate the first transfer member in a vertical direction, between its pick-up position and its take over position, or an intermediate position, such that the first transfer member can pick-up the label from the table.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the motion device is further adapted to move the second transfer member in a vertical direction, preferably to translate the second transfer member in a vertical direction, between its dispensing position and its take over position, or an intermediate position, such that the second transfer member can lower the label onto the transfer head.

In an embodiment according to the invention, wherein transfer device is provided with a vacuum device for applying a vacuum to openings in the first and/or second transfer member to enable the first and/or second transfer member to engage the label and retain the label on said transfer members.

For example, the transfer member can be provided with arms that each have three separate suction openings. When the arms are positioned along the surface of the label, a vacuum is applied to the suction openings to adhere the label to the arm, thereby preventing significant label movement during the transfer steps.

It is noted that, while the transfer device does utilize a vacuum device to adhere the label temporarily to the transfer members, the shape and material of the transfer member may contributes to the prevention of label movement during the transfer of the label from the positioning table to the transfer head. For example rubber inserts can be provided on the transfer member to further secure the label during transport by the transfer device, in particular to prevent the label form sliding along for example an arm or surface of the transfer member. In an embodiment according to the invention, the transfer head is a mandrel. Wherein the transfer head is a mandrel, for example a mandrel as disclosed in patent publication WO 2012 078 034.

In an embodiment according to the invention, the labels are provided with a print on their front side and the labels preferably are substantially flat labels. The labels are provided to the positioning table one by one. The positioning table may be utilized with die cut labels, labels removed from a magazine, etc.

The invention thus provides an alternative in-mould label positioning device, preferably to provide an alternative in-mould label positioning device that allows for an enhanced precision with respect to positioning the label inside the mould.

The invention also provides an injection moulding device comprising an in-mould label positioning device according to the invention. More in particular, the invention provides a injection moulding device comprising a reliable in-mould label positioning device for supplying a label to a transfer head so as to be placed in position in the inside of the mould of the injection moulding device by the transfer head at a high level of accuracy in a label insert moulding operation.

The present invention also provides an alternative method for positioning a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device. According to the invention, preferably an in-mould label positioning device according to the invention is used in this method. The method comprises the following steps:

- positioning a label in a standard position on a table surface of a positioning table, such that a backside of the label faces away from the table surface and a front side of the label faces towards the table surface;

- engaging the backside of the label in the standard position with a first transfer member, and picking up the label from the positioning table by moving the first transfer member and the positioning table relative to each other;

- presenting the label in a take over position;

- engage the front side of the label with a second transfer member, by positioning the first transfer member and the second transfer member adjacent each other and engaging the front side of the label with the second transfer member while the first transfer member retains the back side of the label;

- disengage the backside of the label with the first transfer member after the second transfer member has engaged the front side of the label, - moving the first transfer member and the second transfer member relative to each other into spaced apart positions, wherein the second transfer member is in a dispensing position

- dispense the label on an outer wall of a movable transfer head, with the front side of the label facing away from the outer wall of the transfer head,

- move the transfer head from a label-receiving position outside the mould cavity of the plastic moulding device into a label release position inside the mould cavity of the plastic moulding device,

-Transfer the label from the transfer head onto the inside surface of the mould by releasing the label.

Thus, the invention provides an alternative method for positioning a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device with enhanced accuracy.

Advantageous embodiments of the in-mould label positioning device according to the invention are disclosed in the subclaims and in the description, in which the invention is further illustrated and elucidated on the basis of a number of exemplary embodiments, of which some are shown in the schematic drawing.

In the drawings

Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an in-mould label positioning device according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a schematic top view of the in-mould label positioning device of Fig.1 in combination with an injection moulding device;

Figs. 3-6 show subsequent working positions of the in-mould label positioning device of Fig. 1 ;

Figs. 7-16 show subsequent working positions of an alternative in-mould label positioning device according to the invention;

Fig. 17 shows a top view of a positioning table of the in-mould label positioning device of Figs. 7-16;

Fig. 18 shows a detail of the positioning table of fig. 17;

Fig. 19 shows a second alternative in-mould label positioning device according to the invention; and

Fig. 20 shows a third alternative in-mould label positioning device according to the invention The invention applies to products where the label is secured to the plastics material body by adhesion obtained by moulding over the label, i.e. by inserting the label into the mould prior to the plastics material that is to form the body of the package itself being introduced into the mould. An in-mould label positioning device according to the invention is especially suitable for use with moulding machines and is particularly usable with injection moulding machines. However, it will be understood that the present invention may also be applicable to other types of moulding machines such as for example blow moulding machines.

Figs. 1-6 show schematic views of an exemplary embodiment of an in-mould label positioning device 1 according to the invention. Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of the in-mould label positioning and Fig. 2 shows a schematic top view of the in mould label positioning device in combination with an injection moulding device 2. Figs. 3-6 show subsequent working positions of the in-mould label positioning device.

An injection moulding device typically comprising at least two parts, at least one of the parts being mobile with respect to the other along a first direction. The injection moulding device 2, shown in a schematic top view in Fig. 2, is designed for injection moulding a bucket shaped product. The injection moulding device comprises a mould part 3 and a plastic material injection part 4 for providing melted plastic material and injecting it into the mould part 3.

The mould part 3 comprises a female mould part 5 and a, moveably supported, male mould part 6. The male mould part 6 can be moved against the female mould part 5 to form the mould cavity that defines the shape of the final product. The male mould part 6 can be moved away from the female mould part 5 to open the mould to allow a finished product to be removed from and to allow for a label to be placed into the mould cavity, in the particular embodiment shown inside the cavity 12 of the female mould part 5 (indicated with dotted lines in fig. 2). In Fig 2 the mould part 3 is depicted in its opened stated, i.e. with the male mould part 6 at a distance for the female mould part 5. The direction of movement of the male mould part is indicated with arrow 7.

The in-mould label positioning device 1 is adapted to position a label inside the mould cavity of the plastic moulding device 2. The in-mould label positioning device comprises positioning table 8 for positioning labels 11 in a standard position, a transfer head 9 for transferring labels into the injection mould 3, and a transfer device 10 for transferring labels from the positioning table to the transfer head 9.

In the particular embodiment shown in the figs. 1-6, the in-mould label positing device 1 further comprises a magazine 18 configured for holding a stack of labels 11 and a pick-up device 19 configured for picking one label 11 at a time from the stack of labels held by the magazine 18 and placing the label 11 on the positioning table 8 The labels are substantially flat labels with a print on their front side. The labels used are for example made of paper, polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC, or ABS, preferably having a thickness between 52 μ and 100 μ. Each label is of a shape that matches the final shape of the plastic product, and is generally obtained from a sheet of paper or plastics material, which is cut out to the desired shape and covered in patterns by any conventional printing method. In particular the printing of the labels causes the label to warp along their edges, such that the edges curve towards the printed side of the label.

It is noted that in the side views of the in-mould label positioning device shown in Fig. 1 and in Figs. 3 - 6 the labels are depicted curved. In practice the labels are substantially flat labels with some slight warping around the edges. The depiction of the labels in the Figs, is by no means realistic. In the Figs, the curvature of the labels is used to indicate which side of the labels is the front side, i.e. the concave side, and which side of the labels is the back side, i.e. the convex side. Furthermore, by thus depicting the labels it is clear from the Figs, that the labels are inverted.

The magazine 18 comprises a housing for holding the stack of labels 11 and for presenting the outward most label of the stack at a pickup area. In the particular embodiment shown, the magazine is provided with a support surface or back plate 27 and a frame consisting of spaced apart smooth bars 25 mounted to the back plate and extending relative to the surface thereof. The bars are provided around the contour of a label, such that they can support the stack of labels. Thus, the stack of labels is a vertical stack. The pick-up area is defined by the upper most label. As the stack of labels shrinks, the pick-up area lowers towards the surface of the table on which the stack rests.

It is noted that magazines for holding a stack of labels and presenting label one by one in a pick-up area are known from the prior art. Any type of known magazine suitable for use with an in-mould label positioning device according to the invention can thus be used.

The positioning table 8 comprises a table surface 14, which surface extends in a substantially horizontal direction. The positioning table defines a standard position for a label 11 , in which a backside of the label 11 faces away from the table surface 14 and a front side of the label 11 faces towards the table surface 14. The positioning table 8 thus allows for precisely positioning a flat label 11 prior to being picked up by the transfer device.

In the particular embodiment shown, the positioning table 8 is provided with protrusions 26 in the form of short pins on the table surface such that they match the contour of a label in the standard position. Thus, by fitting a label 11 between these pins 26 the label is positioned in the standard position. It is noted that the configuration of the position table, a surface with pins mounted thereon, resembles the configuration of the magazine, a back plate with bars. However, since positioning table is used for positioning one label at the time, the pins can be positioned much closer to the circumference of the label. The magazine is configured to support a stack of labels. Additional clearance is required between the bars to enable fitting a stack of labels between them. The intermediate step of placing a label on the positioning table is required to accurately position a label prior to being pick-up by the transfer device.

The table surface 14 of the positioning table is furthermore provided with slits, not shown in the Figs., which allow for adjusting the position of the pins. The pins are releasable mounted in the slits, such that the positions of the pins in the slits can be adjusted to match the contour, of different labels.

In the particular embodiment shown, the positioning table 11 is movably supported such that it is moveable, more in particular such that it is translatable in a horizontal direction, between a first position for receiving a label, and a second position for presenting a label in its standard position. The latter position is shown in fig. 1. The direction of movement is indicated with arrow 20 in Fig. 1. In the first position, the positioning table is positioned above the magazine 18 and below the pick-up device 19. The pick-up device 19 is configured for placing the label 1 1 on the positioning table 8 with the front side of the label facing downward. In the particular embodiment shown, this is achieved by moving the pick-up device in a vertical direction, which is indicated with arrow 21. This will be explained in more detail further on. The transfer head 9, in the embodiment shown in the form of a mandrel, comprises an outer wall adapted to support the labels 11 with the front side of the label facing away from the wall. The transfer head 9 is moveable between a label-receiving position outside the mould cavity and a label release position inside the mould cavity, when the mould is in the opened condition. In the Figs, the transfer head 9 is depicted in its label-receiving position. The direction of movement of the transfer head is indicated with arrow 13. To insert a label into the mould cavity, the transfer head is moved out of its label receiving position to a position between the male and female mould part. Subsequently, the transfer head is moved towards, and at least partially into, the female mould part 5 to release a label in the cavity 12 of that mould part. The transfer device 10 is adapted to transfer the label 11 from the positioning table 8 to the transfer head 9. The transfer device comprises a first transfer member 15, a second transfer member 16, and a motion device 17. The first transfer member 15 is adapted to, in a pick-up position thereof, engage the back side of the label 11 in the standard position on the positioning table 8, and to, in a take over position thereof, present the label for engagement by the second transfer member 16.

In the particular embodiment shown, the first transfer member is supported such that it can translate in a vertical direction between the pick-up position and an intermediate position. The latter position is shown in Fig. 1. The vertical direction of movement indicated with arrow 22. The first transfer member 15 is furthermore pivotally supported, such that it can pivot about a horizontal axis between the intermediate position shown in fig. 1 and the take over position. This direction of movement is indicated with arrow 23 in Fig. 1. The second transfer member 16 is adapted to, in a take over position thereof, engage the front side of the label 11 presented by the first transfer member in its take over position, and to, in a dispense position thereof, dispense the label 11 onto the transfer head 9. The second transfer member 16 is in Fig. 1 shown in its take over position. The second transfer member 16 is supported such that it can translate in a vertical direction between its take over position and it's dispense position. This direction of movement is indicated with arrow 24 in Fig. 1.

In the embodiment shown, the pick-up device 19, the first transfer member and the second transfer member are all provided with cups 28 in combination a vacuum device for applying a vacuum to openings provided in the cups to enable the cups to engage the flat surface of a label, being the front or the back of the label, and to retain the label by means of under pressure during the movement of the pick-up device, the first transfer device or the second transfer device respectively.

It is noted that the transfer head is also provided with openings in its peripheral surface and with a vacuum device to provide a vacuum to those openings, such that the openings can be used to retain a label on its peripheral outside surface.

The motion device 17 comprises multiple actuators and is adapted to move the first transfer member 15 relative to the positioning table 8 and to move the first transfer member 15 and second transfer member 16 relative to each other

In the particular embodiment shown, the motion device is furthermore adapted to move the positioning table in horizontal direction between its position for receiving a label and its position for presenting a label in its standard position. In the particular embodiment shown, the motion device is furthermore adapted to move the transfer head between its label-receiving position and its label release position inside the mould cavity.

The motion device 17 is adapted to move the first transfer member 15 relative to the positioning table 8, more in particular to move the first transfer member 15 and the positioning table 8 relative to each other between closely adjacent positions, with the first transfer member in its pick-up position, and spaced apart positions, with the first transfer member in its take over position.

The motion device 17 is adapted to move the first transfer member 15 in a vertical direction, indicated with arrow 22, to translate the first transfer member in a vertical direction between its pick-up position and an intermediate position, shown in Fig. 1 , such that the first transfer member can pick-up the label from the positioning table 8.

In addition, the motion device 17 is adapted to pivot the first transfer member 15 about a horizontal axis between this intermediate position and its take over position, which movement is indicated with arrow 22.

The motion device 17 is further adapted to move the second transfer member 16 in a vertical direction, more in particular to translate the second transfer member, in a vertical direction between its dispensing position and its take over position such that the second transfer member can lower the label onto the transfer head. This direction of movement is indicated with arrow 24.

The motion device 17 is furthermore adapted to move the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 relative to each other between their respective take over positions and spaced apart positions. In the particular embodiment this is achieved by pivoting the first transfer member towards and away from the second transfer member, when the latter is positioned in its take over position.

When in their respective take over positions, the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 are positioned adjacent each other such that the second transfer member 16 can engage the front side of the label 11 while the first transfer member 15 retains the back side of the label 1 1 , and the first transfer member 15 can disengage the backside of the label 11 after the second transfer member 16 has engaged the front side of the label 11.

Figs. 3-6 show subsequent working positions of the in-mould label positioning device of Fig. 1. With the embodiment shown in Figs. 1-6, a stack of labels 11 is presented in the magazine 18. The labels 11 are positioned with their front side facing the back plate 27 of the magazine To position a label, the picking device 19 is lowered by the motion device 17 until it engages the backside of the upper most label with by way of its suction cups 28 activated by the vacuum device, as is shown in Fig. 3. The pick-up device 19 is subsequently lifted by the motion device 19, as sis shown in Fig. 4. After the positioning table is moved by the motion device 17 into its position for receiving a label, shown in Fig. 5, the motion device lowers the pick-up device to deposit the label between the pins 26 on the positioning table. The pins are provided with slanted sides, such that they guide the label while into the standard position. Preferably, the pick-up device releases the label 1 1 , when already positioned between the upper ends of the pins, at a certain distance above the surface of the positioning table, such that the label is dropped and the label is guided by the pins only into the standard position. After label 11 has been released, the pick-up device 19 is lifted by the motion device 17, and the positioning table 8 is moved by the motion device into its position for presenting a label in its standard position, the backside of the label facing away from the table surface and the front side of the label facing towards the table surface.

Subsequently, the first transfer member 15 is lowered by the motion device 17 to engage the backside of the label 11 in the standard position by way of its suction cups 28 activated by the vacuum device, which is shown in Fig. 3. Subsequently, by motion device moves the first transfer member 15 and the positioning table 8 relative to each other; in the particular embodiment shown lifts the first transfer device 15, to pick-up the label 11 from the positioning table. Fig. 4 shows the first transfer member in an intermediate position, in which it is fully lifted and ready to hand over the label to the second transfer device 16 by moving into the take over position. The same Fig. shows the second transfer member 16 in its take over position.

In fig. 5, the motion device 17 has pivoted the first transfer member into its take over position to present the label to the second transfer member 16. The first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 are both positioned in their take over positions, and are thus located adjacent each other with the label 11 positioned between them.

When the first transfer member is pivoted into its take over position it engages the back side of the label. The second transfer member 16 is located adjacent the front side of the label 11 , and engages the front side of the label 11 while the first transfer member 15 retains the back side of the label. After the second transfer member 16 has engaged the front side of the label 11 , by way of its suction cups 28 activated by the vacuum device, the first transfer device disengages the backside of the label 11. The motion device 17 subsequently moves the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 relative to each other into spaced apart positions, in the particular embodiment shown pivots the first transfer member 15 back into its intermediate position and lowers the second transfer member 16 into its dispensing position adjacent the transfer head 9 in its label receiving position. This step is shown in Fig. 6.

The label 11 is now dispensed on an outer wall of a movable transfer head 9, with the front side of the label facing away from the outer wall of the transfer head. A vacuum is provided behind openings in the wall of the transfer head to engage the back side of the label 11 while the second transfer member 16 disengages the front side of the label.

The initially plane label is placed around the mandrel and is simultaneously deformed so as to take up the outside shape of the mandrel. The label deformed in this way is held in contact with the outside face of the mandrel by establishing suction (by sucking air) at the outside face of the transfer mandrel, i.e. beneath the label;

It is noted that this particular part of the process is known in the prior art, and is for example disclosed in patent publication WO 2012 078 034, and is therefore not elaborated upon. Also, the transfer head supporting the label is not shown in the Figs.

The label 11 is now supported by the second transfer head 9, which engages the back side of the label, and the motion device moves the transfer head from a label-receiving position outside the mould cavity of the plastic moulding device 2 into a label release position inside the mould cavity 12 of the plastic moulding device.

The label is transferred from the transfer head onto the inside surface of the mould by releasing the label, i.e. the means for holding the label on the transfer head are deactivated and the label tends to return to its initial plane shape because of the relative stiffness of the material(s) from which it is made. Thus, the label separates from the transfer head and comes into close contact with at least a portion of the faces of the cavity-forming female portion of the mould.

After the mandrel has been removed from the cavity and the mould has been closed, plastics material is introduced into the space between the male part and the female part of the mould and also into the space between the male part and the label, thus causing the label to be pressed against the walls of the female part under drive from the forces exerted thereon by the injected plastics material.

Once the plastics material has set, the mould can be opened and the product with the label provided thereon, is removed from the mould.

The invention thus provides a method and device which results in more accurate placement of the labels inside an injection mould, which permits more careful control of the accuracy of the configuration of the labels, which permits labels of various configurations to be used, and wherein the orientation of the labels with respect to the injection mould is greatly facilitated.

Figs. 7-16 show subsequent working positions of an alternative in-mould label positioning device according to the invention. Each position is depicted in side view and in perspective view. The in-mould label positioning device is similar to the one shown in Figs. 1-6. It is however shown in more detail. Similar components are provided with the same reference signs and will not again be explained in detail. Furthermore, the working of both in-mould labelling devices is also similar. Differences between the two devices will be discussed below.

The in-mould labelling device 1 shown in Figs. 7-16 comprises a positioning table 8 and a transfer device 10. Furthermore, a magazine 18 for holding stacks of labels 11 and a pick-up device 19 for transferring the labels to the positioning table 8 are shown. In Figs. 7-16 a transfer head and injection moulding device are not depicted.

The magazine 18 shown in figs 7-16 differs from the one shown in figs 1-6 in that it is configured to hold two stacks of labels 1 1. One stack is located for presenting labels to the pick-up device 19 while the other stack is in a position that allows for adding labels to the stack. The back plate 27 of the magazine 8 is pivotally supported at a central pivot point 34, such that by pivoting the back plate about a vertical axis, the stacks can be moved between the position for presenting labels to the pick-up device and a position for adding labels to the stack.

Furthermore, the back plate 27 of the magazine 18 and the table surface 14 of the positioning table 8 shown in Figs. 7-16 are provided with slots 29 in which the bars 25 and pins 26 respectively are mounted. The slots 29 allow for repositioning the bars 25 and pins 26, and thus for adapting the magazine 18 and the positioning table 8 for use with different labels.

Fig. 17 shows the positioning table 8 in top view, with the slots 29 clearly depicted. Fig. 18 shows a detail of the positioning table 8, in particular the pins 26 of the positioning table positioning a label 11 in the standard position. It is noted that the pins 26 are of limited height compared to the bars 25 of the magazine 18 since the only have to position one label at the time, and not a stack of labels. The pins 26 are furthermore provided with a cone shaped top, which helps guiding a label into the standard position when released by the pick-up device.

The motion device 17 of the in-mould labelling device show in the figs 7-16 comprises actuators for moving the positioning table 8 in a horizontal direction and the pick-up device 19 and the transfer device 10 in a vertical direction. These actuators comprise a guide system comprising a first rail that is slideable supported in another rail and a drive for moving the two rails relative to each other. Of the actuators for moving the pick-up device and the transfer device only one rail and the drive are shown. It is noted that other types of drives and/or guide systems known form the prior art can also be used as actuators.

In contrast with the in-mould label positioning device shown in the Figs. 1-6, the transfer device show in Figs 7-16 comprises a main support 30, which main support supports both the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16. In the particular embodiment shown, the main support 30 is provided in the form of a bar. The first transfer member 15 comprises two arms 35 which are pivotally supported by the main support 30, such that they extend perpendicular to the bar shaped main support 30 and in use can pivot relative to the main support while carrying a label. The second transfer member 16 comprises two arms 36 which are fixed relative to the main support 30, such that they extend perpendicular to the bar shaped main support and during use cannot move a label relative to the main support 30.

The main support 30 itself is mounted such that the motion device 17 can move it in the vertical direction, more in particular provide a translational movement in the vertical direction, and thus synchronously move the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 in the vertical direction. By providing the transfer device 10 with a moveably supported main support 30, which main support 30 supports both the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16, the position and movement of the first and second transfer member relative to each other can be better controlled, which further allows to accurately deposits the label on the transfer head, and thus in the mould. Thus, by providing the transfer device 10 with a moveable main support 30 supporting both the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16, consistent accuracy can be achieved. It is noted that the arms 36 of the second transfer member 16 each comprise a fixed base part 31 , which is mounted to the mains support 30, and an end part 32, supporting suction means 28 for engaging a label 11 , which end part 32 is pivotally connected to the base part 31 such that the end part can pivot about a horizontal axis relative to the base part.

Furthermore, a securing device is provide in the form of securing bolts, which allow for securing the end part 32 of each arm 36 relative to the base part 31. Thus, the dispense position of the second transfer member 16, in particular the end parts 32 of the arms 36 supporting the label, can be adjusted to match the clearance of the peripheral outer surface of a transfer head. The second transfer member can thus support a label parallel to the peripheral outer surface of a transfer head, and can be adjusted to allow match the support position of the label with different transfer heads.

It is noted that other securing means, such as pins or an electric drive can also be sued for positioning and securing the end part of the arms relative to the base part of the arms.

In the embodiment shown in Figs 7-16, the second transfer member 16, more in particular the base part 31 of the arms 36 of the second transfer member 16, are fixed in slots 37 provided in the main support 30. The slots 37 extend in the longitudinal direction of the bar shaped main support 30. The arms 36 are releasable fixed in the respective slots 37. This configuration allows for adjusting the position of the arms 36 relative to the main support 30 and thus to match the position of the arms 36 with the shape of different labels.

It is noted that such a configuration, i.e. a bar supporting the arms of the second transfer device which bar is configured to enable adjustment of the position of those arms, is also possible in an in-mould label positioning device as shown in figs. 1-6 in which the second transfer member is supported independently from the first transfer member.

In the embodiment shown Figs 7-16, the bar shaped main support 30 is at its end provided with supports extending in a downward direction. Between these supports, the mains support 30 pivotally supports a first transfer member 15, which comprises a base element 33 in the form of a bar and arms 35 mounted on that base element such that they extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bar shaped base element.

In the embodiment shown, the arms 35 of the first transfer member 16 are fixed in slots provided in the base element, which slots extend in the longitudinal direction of the bar shaped base element. These slots are provided at the bottom side of the bar shaped base element, and are therefore not visible in the Figs. The arms 35 are releasable fixed in the respective slots. This configuration allows for adjusting the position of the arms relative to the base element 33 and thus to match the position of the arms with the shape of different labels. It is noted that such a configuration, i.e. a base element supporting the arms of the first transfer device which base element is configured to enable adjustment of the position of those arms, is also possible in an in-mould label positioning device as shown in figs. 1-6 in which the first transfer member is supported independently from the first transfer member.

It is noted that the embodiment of the transfer device shown in the Figs 7-1 , i.e. with a main support 30 that combines the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16, combines a particular compact design with a reliable and accurate label transfer between positioning table and transfer head.

Figs. 7-16 show subsequent working positions of the alternative in-mould label positioning device 1 according to the invention.

Figs. 7 and 8 show the first transfer member 15 in its pick-up position, engaging the back side of a label 11 in the standard position on the positioning table 8. This step is similar to the step shown in Fig. 3.

Figs. 9 and 10 show the first transfer member 15 in its intermediate position, after having picked up the label 11 from the positioning table 8 and prior to moving, more in particular pivoting it, into its take over position. This step is similar to the step shown in Fig. 4. Figs. 11 and 12 show the first transfer member 15 while pivoting from its intermediate position towards its take over position adjacent the second transfer member 16.

Figs. 13 and 14 show the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 in their respective take over positions, the first transfer member 15 engaging the back side of a label 11 and the second transfer member 16 engaging the front side of the label 11. This step is similar to the step shown in Fig. 5.

Figs. 15 and 16 show the first transfer member 15 after it has disengaged the label 11 and has pivoted back into its intermediate position. The label 11 is now supported by the second transfer member 16, which engages the front of the label. The second transfer member is ready to be lowered into its dispensing position for delivering the label to a transfer head.

Fig. 19 shows a second alternative in-mould label positioning device according to the invention. The in-mould label positioning device is similar to the one shown in Figs. 1-6, therefore similar components are provided with the same reference signs and will not again be explained in detail. Furthermore, the working of both in-mould labelling devices is also similar. Differences between the two devices will be discussed below.

The differences with the in-mould positioning device shown in Figs. 1-6 are that the first transfer member 15 and the second transfer member 16 are both supported by a main support transfer device 30 which is moveably supported for movement in the vertical direction, indicated with arrow 41. Thus, the first and the second transfer member can synchronous be moved in the vertical direction, more in particular can synchronous be moved between their respective pick-up position and dispense position and their respective intermediate positions, depicted in Fig. 19. Furthermore, the first and the second transfer member are both pivotally supported, such that they can be pivoted about a horizontal axis from the intermediate positions depicted in Fig. 19 towards each other in their respective take over positions, which movement is indicated with arrow 39.

Fig. 20 shows a third alternative in-mould label positioning device according to the invention. The in-mould label positioning device is similar to the one shown in Figs. 1-6, therefore similar components are provided with the same reference signs and will not again be explained in detail. Furthermore, the working of both in-mould labelling devices is also similar. Differences between the two devices will be discussed below.

The differences with the in-mould positioning device shown in Figs. 1-6 is that the first transfer member 15 is pivotably supported such that it can be pivoted about a horizontal axis over a 180 degree angle, which movement is indicated with arrow 40. In fig. 20 the first transfer member 15 is shown in its pick-up position. To transfer the label 11 to the transfer head 9 the first transfer member is first moved in a vertical direction into an intermediate position to pick up the label. Subsequently the first transfer member is pivoted over an angel of 180 degrees from its intermediate position into its take over position. When the first transfer member has been pivoted into its tale over position, the second transfer member is lowered from its intermediate position, shown in Fig. 20, into its take over position adjacent the first transfer member. When the second transfer member has engaged the label, the second transfer member is lifted back into its intermediate position and the second transfer member is pivoted back into its intermediate position. The second transfer member can now be lowered towards the transfer head to dispense the label thereupon. It is noted that configurations of the in-mould labelling device of which the first transfer member and the second transfer member are pivoted over other angles than those shown in the Figs, are also possible.

It is noted that for the sake of clarity of the in mould label positioning devices depicted in the figures, only the relevant parts are shown. It should be understood that in practice these parts are supported by one or more machine frames, and can optionally be provided with one or more housing parts.

An in-mould labelling device according to the invention is especially suitable for use in the production of plastic products such as plastic cups, containers, tubes, etc. that are produced by moulding integrally with a label on the surface, the label carrying a desired design of letters and/or a graphic printed thereon. Such types of products typically have a one-piece structure body having a bottom-forming wall and one or more side walls e.g. extending over a surface of revolution about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the bottom, such as a cylinder or a truncated cone.

Claims

1. In-mould label positioning device adapted to position a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device, the in-mould label positioning device comprising:

- a positioning table, the positioning table comprising a table surface, which positioning table defines a standard position for a label, in which a backside of the label faces away from the table surface and a front side of the label faces towards the table surface;

- a transfer head, the transfer head comprising an outer wall adapted to support the label with the front side of the label facing away from the wall, which transfer head is moveable between a label-receiving position outside the mould cavity and a label release position inside the mould cavity;

- a transfer device, which transfer device is adapted to transfer the label from the positioning table to the transfer head, which transfer device comprises a first transfer member, a second transfer member, and a motion device, wherein

the first transfer member is adapted to, in a pick-up position thereof, engage the back side of the label in the standard position on the positioning table, and to, in a take over position thereof, present the label for engagement by the second transfer member;

the second transfer member is adapted to, in a take over position thereof, engage the front side of the label presented by the first transfer member in its take over position, and to, in a dispense position thereof, dispense the label onto the transfer head; wherein

the motion device comprises multiple actuators and is adapted to:

move the first transfer member and the positioning table relative to each other between closely adjacent positions, with the first transfer member in its pick-up position, and spaced apart positions, with the first transfer member in its take over position;

move the first transfer member and the second transfer member relative to each other between their respective take over positions, wherein the first transfer member and the second transfer member are positioned adjacent each other such that the second transfer member can engage the front side of the label while the first transfer member retains the back side of the label and the first transfer member can disengage the backside of the label after the second transfer member has engaged the front side of the label, and spaced apart positions, wherein the first transfer member is in its pick-up position and the second transfer member is in its dispensing position.

2. Device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

- A magazine configured for holding a stack of labels, the said magazine comprising a housing for holding the stack and for presenting the outward most label of the stack at a pickup area; and - A pick-up device configured for picking one label at a time from the stack of labels held by the magazine and placing the label on the positioning table with the front side of the label facing downward.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the positioning table is movably supported such that it is moveable, preferably such that it is translatable in a horizontal direction, between a first position for receiving a label, and a second position for presenting a label in its standard position.

4. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning table has a table surface that extends in a substantially horizontal direction.

5. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the table surface is provided with slits, and the positioning table comprises pins that are releasable mounted in those slits, such that the positions of the pins in the slits can be adjusted to match the contour, or part thereof, of the label and to thus define a standard position for the label.

6. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the table is provided with an air cushion to slightly lift the label, and thus lower friction between the label and the label surface, and to thus facilitate positioning of the label in its standard position.

7. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first transfer member is pivotally supported by the transfer device, such that the first transfer member is pivotable about a substantially horizontal axis between its take over position and its pick-up position, or an intermediate position.

8. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second transfer member is pivotally supported by the transfer device, such that the second transfer member can pivot about a substantially horizontal axis between its take over position and its deposit position or an intermediate position.

9. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the dispense position of the second transfer member can be adjusted to match the clearance of the peripheral outer surface of the transfer head and the second transfer member can thus support a label parallel to the peripheral outer surface of the transfer head.

10. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motion device is further adapted to move the first transfer member in a vertical direction, preferably to translate the first transfer member in a vertical direction, between its pick-up position and its take over position, or an intermediate position, such that the first transfer member can pick-up the label from the table.

11. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the motion device is further adapted to move the second transfer member in a vertical direction, preferably to translate the second transfer member in a vertical direction, between its dispensing position and its take over position, or an intermediate position, such that the second transfer member can lower the label onto the transfer head.

12. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer device comprises a main support, which main support is movably supported for movement, preferably for a translational movement, in the vertical direction, and which main support supports both the first transfer member and the second transfer member to enable synchronous movement of the first and second transfer member in the vertical direction.

13. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein transfer device is provided with a vacuum device for applying a vacuum to openings in the first and/or second transfer member to enable the first and/or second transfer member to engage the label and retain the label on said transfer members.

14. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer head is a mandrel.

15. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the labels are provided with a print on their front side and the labels preferably are substantially flat labels.

16. Injection moulding device comprising an in-mould label positioning device according to one or more of the preceding claims.

17. Method for positioning a label inside a mould cavity of a plastic moulding device, preferably using an in-mould label positioning device according to one or more of the preceding clams, the method comprising the following steps: - positioning a label in a standard position on a table surface of a positioning table, such that a backside of the label faces away from the table surface and a front side of the label faces towards the table surface;

- presenting the label in a take over position;

- disengage the backside of the label with the first transfer member after the second transfer member has engaged the front side of the label,

- moving the first transfer member and the second transfer member relative to each other into spaced apart positions, wherein the second transfer member is in a dispensing position