JP2001122234A - Label adhering device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a label adhering device capable of preventing any erroneous adhesion of a label and capable of carrying out a positive adhesion of a label to a commodity without useless applying of a label. SOLUTION: This label adhering device is comprised of sensing means for sensing a commodity; and a control segment to cause a printing segment to start printing of a label when the sensing means detects a commodity and further to cause an adhering segment to start adhering of the label if the sensing means is in a non-detecting state after a predetermined time (T1) elapses from the aforesaid sensing.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a label attaching apparatus for attaching a label on which product information is printed to a product.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a product pack center or the like, a so-called label sticking apparatus for sticking a label on a packaged product is used. In a production line such as a pack center, as shown in FIG. 13, a label sticking apparatus is generally arranged on the downstream side of a packaging apparatus 100 that packs a product with a film or the like or packs the product in a bag. Then, a label printed with information on the product is attached to the packaged product M supplied from the packaging apparatus 100. In this label sticking apparatus 1, first, when the product M is detected by the product detection sensor 60 (detection means) provided on the upstream end side of the conveyor 2,
A label is started and a timer is set. When the printing is completed, the apparatus enters a sticking standby state. Here, the processing time of the label sticking apparatus is more affected by the time used for printing than the time required for sticking, so that printing is performed at a relatively early stage so as not to lower the processing capacity. It is completed, and the printed label is kept waiting. Then, after a predetermined time elapses with the timer, sticking of the label that has been on standby is started, and the label is stuck when the commodity reaches a predetermined label sticking position.

[0003]

However, in the label sticking operation, there are cases where goods are not normally conveyed on the conveyor and cases where defective products are supplied to the label sticking apparatus. In particular, in a production line as described above,
A situation occurs in which a defective packaged product caused by an operation error of the packaging device arranged on the upstream side is supplied to the label sticking device. For example, if an error occurs in the timing of the packaging operation of the packaging device, a defective packaging bag (empty bag) with an empty state is created, and if an error occurs in the cutting operation of the packaging bag, a plurality of bags are lost. Defective packaging bags that are still connected are made and supplied to the labeling device. Such a defective packaged product is not normally transported on the transport conveyor or is removed from the conveyor as a defective product, so that it cannot reach a predetermined label attaching position after a predetermined time. Further, as shown in FIG. 13, when the product detection sensor 60 is provided around the transfer section of the transport conveyor 2, the transfer of the product between the conveyors does not work well, and the product stays in the transfer section. Also, when a predetermined time has elapsed, it cannot reach the predetermined label attaching position.

However, in this label sticking apparatus, the label sticking is started based on the elapsed time from the start of label printing, so that the above-mentioned trouble occurs after the detection of the product by the detecting means, and the product is conveyed normally. If not, there is a problem that the label is erroneously attached not to the product but to a conveyor or the like around the label attaching position. When such a label attaching error occurs, not only is the label wasted, but also extra labor is required to peel off the label that has been mistakenly attached to a conveyor or the like, which hinders work.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and is intended to prevent a label from being erroneously applied, and to attach a label to a product without waste. The purpose is to provide.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a label pasting apparatus comprising: a conveying section for conveying a product; a printing section for printing information of the product on a label; and a pasting section for pasting the label to the product. In a label sticking apparatus that sticks a label to a product being transported, a detection unit that detects the product, and when the detection unit detects the product, causes a printing unit to start printing the label and a predetermined time from the detection ( If the detecting means is in the non-detection state after the elapse of T1), the control unit causes the sticking unit to start sticking the label.

In the apparatus according to the first aspect, label printing is started when a product is detected as in the prior art, and label application is not always started after a lapse of a predetermined time from the detection, but is performed after a lapse of a predetermined time from the detection. Later, when the detection means is in the non-detection state, the application of the label is started. That is, when there is no more product in the area where the detection means can detect the product, it is considered that the product has passed through the detection means, and labeling is started. Therefore, when a predetermined time has elapsed from the detection of the product and the detection means is in the detection state in spite of the fact that the product normally would have passed through,
Labeling does not start. For this reason, even when the product is not transported to the predetermined label application position after the predetermined time, it is possible to prevent the label from being erroneously applied to a conveyor or the like around the label application position.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, when the detecting means detects the commodity, the control section starts printing the label on the printing section after a lapse of a predetermined time (T2) from the detection. At the same time, if the detection means is in the non-detection state after a lapse of a predetermined time (T1) from the detection, the sticking unit starts to apply the label after a lapse of a predetermined time (T3) from the detection.

In the apparatus according to the second aspect, the printing of the label is started after a lapse of a predetermined time (T2) from the detection of the commodity by the detecting means, and the label is affixed for a predetermined time (T3) after the detection of the commodity by the detecting means. It starts after elapse. Here, by arbitrarily setting the predetermined time (T2) or (T3), it is possible to arbitrarily set the timing of starting label printing or label sticking.

[0010] The label sticking apparatus according to claim 3 is the apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detecting means is in a detection state after a lapse of a predetermined time (T1) since the detection of the product, or a predetermined time after the detection of the product. If the detection means is in the non-detection state before the time (T4) elapses, an error determination means for determining an error is provided.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, when a predetermined time (T1) has elapsed since the detection of the product and the detection means is in the detection state despite the fact that the product would normally have passed through normally. Determines that an error has occurred as described above, such as a stagnant product or a connection of a plurality of bags, and does not start attaching a label. If the detecting means is in the non-detection state by the elapse of the predetermined time (T4) from the detection of the product, the above-described defective package or the like occurs, and the product is not conveyed normally after the detection. It is determined that an error has occurred, or the situation has occurred, such as removal by an operator, and label attachment is not started. Here, T4 must always be smaller than T1.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a label sticking apparatus having a conveying section for conveying goods, a printing section for printing information of the goods on a label, and a sticking section for sticking the label to the goods. In a label attaching device for attaching a label to a product,
First and second detecting means for detecting a product, and when the first detecting means detects the product, the printing unit starts printing a label, and when the second detecting means detects the product, the labeling unit displays the label. A control unit for starting the application of the label, and a period from the detection of the product by the first detection unit until a predetermined time (T5) has elapsed.
An error determining means is provided for determining that an error has occurred when the second detecting means remains undetected.

[0013] In the apparatus according to the fourth aspect, a period from the detection of the commodity by the first detection means until a predetermined time (T5) has elapsed.
If the second detection means remains in the non-detection state, after the detection by the first detection means, the above-mentioned defective packaged goods or goods have accumulated, and the goods have not been transported normally. It is determined that an error has occurred, and an error is determined, and label attachment is not started.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the fourth aspect, when the first detecting means detects a product, the control section prints the label on the printing section after a lapse of a predetermined time (T6) from the detection. When the second detecting means detects the product, the sticking unit starts to stick the label after a lapse of a predetermined time (T7) from the detection.

In the apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the printing of the label is performed for a predetermined time (T) from the detection of the commodity by the first detecting means.
6) It is started after the lapse of time, and the sticking of the label is started after a lapse of a predetermined time (T7) from the detection of the commodity by the second detection means. Here, the predetermined time (T6) or (T7)
Is set arbitrarily, the timing of starting label printing or label sticking can be set arbitrarily.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a label sticking apparatus having a conveying unit for conveying goods, a printing unit for printing information of the goods on a label, and a sticking unit for sticking the label to the goods. In a label attaching device for attaching a label to a product,
A detection unit for detecting the product, and when the detection unit detects the front end of the product being conveyed, causes the printing unit to start printing a label, and when the rear end of the product is detected, causes the sticking unit to start applying the label. And a control unit.

In the apparatus according to the sixth aspect, label printing is started when a product is detected as in the prior art, and labeling is not started after a predetermined time from the detection, but the front end of the product is detected, that is, When the product starts passing through the detecting means, the printing unit starts printing a label, and detects the trailing end of the product, that is, when the product has passed through the detecting means, causes the sticking unit to start applying the label. As described above, the printing time of the label greatly affects the performance of the apparatus, and it is advantageous in terms of performance to start printing at an early stage. Therefore, the starting point of the printing is set at the time of detecting the front end of the product. On the other hand, the time for applying the label has a small effect on the performance of the device, but the accuracy of application of the device is advantageous because it is advantageous to set a time closer to the label application position as the starting point of application.
The starting point of the start of the attachment is at the time of detecting the rear end of the product. Here, an inexpensive and high-precision label sticking apparatus can be configured using one detecting means.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the detecting unit detects the front end of the article being conveyed, the control unit sends the label to the printing unit after a lapse of a predetermined time (T8) from the detection of the front end. Is started, and when the trailing edge of the product is detected, a predetermined time (T9) from the trailing edge detection is detected.
After the lapse of time, the sticking section is started to stick the label.

In the apparatus according to the present invention, the printing of the label is started after a lapse of a predetermined time (T8) from the detection of the front end of the product, and the sticking of the label is started after the lapse of a predetermined time (T9) from the detection of the rear end of the product. Is done. Here, the predetermined time (T
By arbitrarily setting 8) or (T9), it is possible to arbitrarily set the timing of starting label printing or label sticking.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the label attaching apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect, when the detecting means is in the detection state after a lapse of a predetermined time (T10) from the detection of the front end of the product, or when the front end of the product is detected. If the detection means is in the non-detection state before the elapse of a predetermined time (T11) from the time, an error determination means for determining an error is provided.

In the apparatus according to the eighth aspect, even if a predetermined time (T10) has elapsed from the detection of the front end of the product, if the detection means is in the detection state, the above-mentioned stagnation of the product and connection of a plurality of bags are performed. It is determined that an error has occurred, such as an error, and the application of the label is not started. If the detecting means is in the non-detection state by the elapse of a predetermined time (T11) from the detection of the front end of the product, the above-described defective packaging or the like occurs, and the product is conveyed normally after the detection. Wasn't there
Alternatively, it is determined that an error has occurred, such as removal by the operator, and an error is determined, and label attachment is not started.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the label sticking apparatus according to the third, fourth, fifth or eighth aspect further comprises a notifying means for notifying the error when the error is determined.

In the apparatus according to the ninth aspect, when the error is determined, the notifying means notifies the error. This ensures that if an error occurs in the device,
The operator can be alerted. Then, the operator takes appropriate measures against the error,
It can be quickly returned to a normal state.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the third, fourth, fifth, eighth or ninth aspect, the printing unit or the affixing unit holds the printed label in a standby state when an error is determined.

In the apparatus according to the tenth aspect, when an error is determined, label attachment is not started and the apparatus is held in a standby state. Therefore, when goods are not normally transported, the label is transferred to a transport conveyor or the like. Can be prevented from being accidentally attached.

[0026] The label sticking apparatus according to claim 11 sticks the held label to the next product.

In the apparatus according to the eleventh aspect, the label held in the printing unit or the attaching unit can be attached to the next product. In particular, when affixing a label (such as a fixed amount label) with a fixed content to a series of products,
By holding the printed label in a standby state and attaching the label the next time the product is transported,
Labels are not wasted, and the trouble of removing printed labels from the printing section or the sticking section can be saved. At this time, if the notifying means for notifying the error is provided, it is possible to urge the operator to attach the label in the standby state to the next product.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the label sticking apparatus according to the tenth aspect, the held label is transferred to a label take-out position where the label can be taken out.

In the apparatus according to the twelfth aspect, the held label can be transferred to a label take-out position where the label can be taken out. When sticking a label (such as a weighing label) whose print content changes according to the product, the label held in the standby state cannot be stuck to the next product, so it is necessary to remove the held label. Removing the label in the standby state may not be preferable for safety. Here, the printed label is transferred to a retrievable label removal position so that the operator can retrieve the label safely and easily. At this time, if the notifying means for notifying the error is provided, it is possible to urge the operator to transfer the label in the standby state to the label removing position and remove the label.

[0030]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 shows a label sticking apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The label sticking device 1 is a device for sticking a label on a product being transported. Then, generally, in a pack center or the like, the product is arranged on the downstream side of the packaging device 100 that packs the product with a film or the like or packs the product into a bag.
This is an apparatus for attaching a label on which information on a product is printed to a packaged product supplied from a company.

<Overall Outline of Apparatus> As shown in FIG. 1, the label pasting apparatus 1 includes a conveyor (transport section) 2, an overprinting printer (printing section) 4, and an overprinting label pasting machine (pasting section). Unit) 5, an underprinting printer (printing unit) 7, an underprinting label pasting machine (pasting unit) 8, a product detection sensor (detection means) 60, and a discharge conveyor 70. The transport conveyor 2 is provided over substantially the entire length of the label attaching device 1. The top-attaching printer 4 is provided above the conveyor 2. The labeling machine 5 is provided above the conveyor 2 and in front of the printer 4. This printer 4 and the pasting machine 5
Constitutes the upper bonding machine 3. The lower application printer 7 is provided below the conveyor 2. The lower labeling machine 8 is provided downstream of the printer 7. The printer 7 and the bonding machine 8 constitute a lower bonding machine 6. The product detection sensor 60 is provided at an upstream end portion of the conveyor 2. The discharge conveyor 70 is provided on the downstream side of the conveyor 2 at substantially the same height as the conveyor 2.

<Control block> Label attaching apparatus 1
Has a control unit 50 as shown in FIG. The control unit 50 includes a microcomputer including a memory and a CPU, a timer 102, and an error determination unit 103. The product detection sensor 60, the operation panel 80, and the notification unit 104 are connected. The control unit 50
Is connected to the transport conveyor 2, the upper application printer 4, the upper application label applying machine 5, the lower application printer 7, the lower application label applying machine 8, and the discharge conveyor 70,
Each drive is controlled. These devices are connected to each other via an interface (not shown).

The operation panel 80 has a display section and a product N
o. There are provided a numeric keypad for inputting the information and the like, a key for transferring the label to the take-out position, and the like. Notification means 104
When an error is determined by the error determination unit 103,
This is for notifying that effect, and is composed of, for example, an audio output unit and an indicator light. The operation panel 80
If the device also has the notification means 104, the notification is made by displaying an error on the display unit.

The memory is provided with a product information storage unit 101. This product information storage unit 101 stores FIG.
(A) Commodity call No. For each product, in addition to the product name and price, T
Values such as 1, T2, T3, and T4 (described later) are respectively set. These values can be set to constant values for all products, but for each product, the operator can set them according to the size of each product or the size of each product and the speed of the conveyor 2. Is preferably set by the CPU based on the above.

<Transport Conveyor> The transport conveyor 2 has a transport belt stretched between a pair of rollers. FIG.
, The packaged product M from the upstream packaging device 100
Is supplied, the commodity M is transported on the transport belt in the right-hand direction and sent to the discharge conveyor 70. The transport conveyor 2 is configured to be removable for maintenance or the like.

<Top Pasting Machine> The top pasting machine 3 has a top pasting printer 4 for printing product information and a top pasting label pasting machine 5 for pasting the printed label to the product. are doing.

As shown in FIG. 3, the upper application printer 4 includes an unwind roller 41 on which a label roll R is set,
It has a print head 43 that prints on the label L, and a take-up roller 42 that winds up the mount of the label roll R. In the label roll R, a number of labels are removably attached to a band-shaped backing paper at regular intervals. The print head 43 is provided corresponding to the platen roller 44, and performs predetermined printing on the label L while the label L passes between them. A peeling bar 45 is provided at the label issuing port 46 so that the mount can be bent at an acute angle. Therefore, the label L is peeled off from the backing paper when passing through the peeling bar 45, and the label L is sent out to the application machine 5 side.

As shown in FIG. 3, the labeling machine 5 has a label suction head 51 and an air jet 52 composed of a plurality of nozzles. Suction head 5
1 is a box-shaped member having a space inside,
At the lower end. And this suction head 5
1, a suction force by a blower (not shown) is working.
The label L issued from the label issuing port 46 of the printer 4 is sucked by the suction opening 51a formed at the lower end. The air jet 52 is attached to the suction head 51.
The label L is attached to the product M on the conveyor 2 by blowing air to the label L from the tip of the nozzle. When the conveyor 2 is removed for maintenance or the like, the printer 4 and the applicator 5 can be moved to a position where they do not hinder the operation, automatically or by a switch.

<Underlaying Machine> The underlaying printer 7 is shown in FIG.
And an unwinding roller 71 on which a label roll R is set, and a print head 7 for printing on a label L, as shown in FIG.
3 and a take-up roller 72 for taking up the mount of the label roll R
And The print head 73 includes the platen roller 7
4, and performs predetermined printing on the label L while the label L passes between them. Then, the backing sheet is bent at a steep angle by the peeling bar 75 provided at the label issuing port 76, the label L is peeled off from the backing sheet, and the label L is sent to the application machine 8 side. At this time, the label L is issued with the sticking surface (the surface to which the adhesive is attached) of the label L facing upward.

A label conveyor 81 of the lower labeling machine 8 is disposed between the conveyor 2 and the discharge conveyor 70, that is, below the gap S between the two conveyors. The label conveyor 81 receives the label L issued from the printer 7 and transports the label L diagonally upward along the inclined surface 85 of the label conveyor 81 toward the cut S. The conveyor belt 84 of the label conveyor 81 is formed of, for example, a large number of round belts or a mesh having a large number of holes, and the suction force of the blower 82 is applied to the label L on the inclined surface 85. It is working. The lower side of the label conveyor 81 has a suction chamber 8 so that the suction force by the blower 82 works.
We are facing 3. Inside the label conveyor 81, approximately L
A character-shaped regulating member 86 is provided. This regulating member 8
6 shows the label L transferred on the inclined surface 85,
5, and is provided so as to be rotatable about a shaft 87. When the label L is issued from the printer 7 and transferred on the inclined surface 85, the regulating member 86
Receives the label L at the tip protruding from the inclined surface 85 (FIG. 7A). Then, at the timing when the product M is transported, the product M is rotated to the position indicated by the two-dot chain line in FIG. Then, the label L is further transported diagonally upward along the inclined surface 85 and jumps out to the cut S. As described above, when the label jumps into the gap S at the timing when the product M is transported, the label L is attached to the lower surface of the product M (FIG. 7B).

<Product detection sensor> Product detection sensor 60
Is provided at an upstream end portion on the conveyor 2 (FIG. 1), and is for detecting a product M conveyed from upstream. Based on the detection of the sensor 60, the timing of printing or attaching the label is set. The product detection sensor 60 can be configured by an optical sensor such as a light emitting element and a light receiving element, a CCD camera, or the like.

<Discharge Conveyor> The discharge conveyor 70 is disposed downstream of the transport conveyor 2 (FIG. 1), and is for discharging the product M to which the label L is affixed from the apparatus 1. The discharge conveyor 70 includes a conveyor belt or a plurality of rollers. In addition, a distribution device (not shown) for distributing the discharged products under predetermined conditions is provided downstream of the discharge conveyor.

<Overall Operation> Next, the operation of the entire apparatus will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG. First, the operator calls the product call No. on the operation panel 80. Is input, and when a predetermined key is pressed, from the product information storage unit 101 of the memory,
The name of the product, the values of T1 to T4, and the like are read.

Next, the packed product M is supplied from the packaging device 100 onto the conveyor 2, and when the product M is detected by the product detection sensor 60 (step P1), the timer 102 is set (step P2). Thereafter, when the value of the timer 102 elapses a predetermined time (T2) (step P3), the upper application printer 4 and the lower application printer 7
Starts printing the label L (step P4). When printing is completed, the printed label L is held by the suction head 51 of the pasting machine 5 in the upper pasting machine 3 (FIG. 3), and the regulating member 86 of the pasting machine 8 is held in the lower pasting machine 6.
Is held on the inclined surface 85 (FIG. 7A).

After a further lapse of time, the commodity detection sensor 60
Is in the non-detection state (step P5), if the value of the timer 102 has passed the predetermined time (T4) (step P7), the value of the timer 102 becomes the predetermined time (T3).
Has elapsed (step P10), the upper labeling machine 5 and the lower labeling machine 8 start applying the label L (step P11). At this time,
In, the air is blown from the tip of the nozzle of the air jet 52 onto the label L held by the suction head 51 of the application machine 5, so that the label is attached to the upper surface of the product M on the conveyor 2. Further, in the lower pasting machine 6, the regulation member 86 of the pasting machine 8 is rotated to release the regulation of the label, so that the label L jumps out to the gap S (FIG. 7 (b)), and the product M Affixed to the underside of.

Here, when there is no more product M in the area where the product detection sensor 60 can detect the product, it is considered that the product M has passed through the product detection sensor 60, and after a predetermined time (T3), the label L Start pasting. Therefore, when the predetermined time (T1) has elapsed from the detection of the product M and the product detection sensor 60 is in the detection state despite the fact that the product would normally have passed through (the product is stagnant) Does not start the attachment of the label L. Thus, even when the product M is not conveyed to the predetermined label application position after a predetermined time, it is possible to prevent the label from being erroneously applied to the conveyor 2 and the like around the label application position.

When there is no product M in the area where the product detection sensor 60 can detect the product, a predetermined time (T
If 4) has elapsed, after a predetermined time (T3), the label L
Start pasting. Therefore, when the predetermined time (T4) has not elapsed from the detection of the product M, the product detection sensor 60 is in the non-detection state (the product may have been removed from the conveyor 2 or the like). )), The attachment of the label L is not started. As described above, even when the product M is not conveyed to the predetermined label attaching position after a predetermined time, the conveyor 2 around the label attaching position may be used.
In this way, it is possible to prevent labels from being accidentally attached to, for example, the like.

Next, if the predetermined time (T1) has elapsed (step P8) while the product detection sensor 60 remains in the detection state (step P6), defects such as stagnation of the products and connection of a plurality of bags occur. The error determination means 103
, An error is determined, and error processing described later is performed.

When the commodity detection sensor 60 is in the non-detection state (step P5), if the value of the timer 102 has not passed the predetermined time (T4) (step P5).
In 9), it is assumed that a defective package or the like has occurred and has not been properly conveyed after detection, or has been removed by an operator.
At 03, an error is determined, and error processing described later is performed.

<Error Processing> Next, error processing will be described with reference to the flow chart of FIG. First, when an error is determined by the error determining means 103, the notifying means 1
04 (FIG. 2) to notify an error (step E).
1). This notification is performed, for example, by sound output from a buzzer, a speaker, or the like, or by blinking an indicator light. When the operation panel 80 also has the notification means 104, the notification is performed by displaying an error on the display unit. Here, when an error occurs in the labeling apparatus 1, it is possible to notify the operator of the error and call attention.
Then, the operator can quickly return to a normal state by taking appropriate measures for the error. In addition, by combining the above-described display and audio output, an error can be more effectively notified to the operator.

Next, the sticking section holds the printed label in a standby state. Here, in the upper pasting machine 3, the label L on which printing has been performed is held in a standby state by the suction head 51 of the pasting machine 5 (FIG. 3). Further, in the lower pasting machine 6, the label L on which printing has been performed is held on the inclined surface 85 by the regulating member 86 of the pasting machine 8 (FIG. 7A). For this reason, when an error occurs and the product is not transported normally, the printed label can be held in a standby state to prevent the label from being erroneously attached to a transport conveyor or the like.

Further, when the operator performs a predetermined operation in this state, the held label can be attached to the next product. That is, after the operator performs a predetermined operation and designates that the held label is to be attached to the next product (step E2), when the product detection sensor 60 detects the next product M (step E3), the timer 102
Is set (step E4). Here, since the printed label L is already held, label printing is not started. The processing after the commodity detection sensor 60 is in the non-detection state (step E5) is the same as in the case of the above-described operation flow, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Here, the label held in the standby state is
Since the label can be attached when the next product is transported, the label is not wasted, and the trouble of removing the printed label from the labeling unit can be omitted. For example, when attaching a label (a fixed amount label or the like) on which a certain content is printed to a series of products, the label attaching operation can be performed efficiently.

Next, in a case where the printed label is held in a standby state, if the operator performs another predetermined operation, the held label can be transferred to a label taking-out position where the label can be taken out. That is, when the operator performs a predetermined operation and designates that the held label is to be transferred to a retrievable label removal position (step E6), the retained label is transferred to a label removal position where the operator can easily remove the label. (Step E
7). Here, in the upper pasting machine 3, for example, a label conveyor is provided in the suction head 51 of the pasting machine 5, and the label conveyor receives and drives the label L from the suction head 51, so that the label L is moved to the label take-out position. Can be transported. Further, in the lower pasting machine 6, for example, the regulation member 86 of the pasting machine 8 is rotated to release the regulation of the label, and the label conveyor 81 is stopped after the label L jumps out of the gap S, so that the holding is performed. The transferred label is transferred to a label take-out position where it can be taken out. At this time, since the suction force by the blower 82 is working, the label L is held in a state of being protruded from the gap S (FIG. 9).
When the label conveyor 81 is stopped and the transport conveyor 2 and the discharge conveyor 70 are also stopped, labels can be taken out more safely and easily.

In this case, when a label such as a weighing label or the like whose print content changes according to the product is attached, it is necessary to remove the held label. However, removing the label in the standby state is a safety measure. In some cases, the printed label is transferred to a retrievable label removal position so that the operator can safely and easily retrieve the label.

In the above description, the commodity detection sensor 6
After a lapse of a predetermined time (T2) from the detection of the product M by the number 0,
It is assumed that the top-attachment printer 4 and the bottom-attachment printer 7 start printing labels, but the value of the predetermined time (T2) is, as shown in FIG. 7 may be different values. Similarly, for the value of the predetermined time (T3),
The values for the upper labeling machine 5 and the lower labeling machine 8 may be different values.

Printing may be started immediately when the commodity detection sensor 60 detects the commodity M (corresponding to the case where the value of T2 is zero), or for a predetermined time (T1 If the detection means is in the non-detection state after the elapse, the sticking may be started immediately (corresponding to the case where the value of T3 is zero).

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 10 shows a label sticking apparatus 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. This device 1
Is the same as the first embodiment except for the configuration relating to the product detection sensor and the timer. Hereinafter, only the configuration relating to the commodity detection sensor and the timer and the operation of the entire apparatus will be described.

The label attaching apparatus 1 has a first product detection sensor 60 (first detection means) and a second product detection sensor 60 '(second detection means), and the first product detection sensor 60' (second detection means). The detection sensor 60 is provided at an upstream end portion on the conveyor 2, and the second product detection sensor 60 ′ is downstream of the first product detection sensor 60 and is provided by the upper pasting machine 3 and the lower pasting machine 6. Is also provided on the upstream side. The control unit 5 of the device 1
0 is the first timer 102 and the second timer 10
2 ′.

<Overall Operation> FIG.
Will be described along the flow of FIG. The packed product M is supplied from the packaging device 100 onto the conveyor 2 and the product M
Is detected by the first product detection sensor 60 (step Q
1) Set the first timer 102 (step Q)
2). Thereafter, the value of the first timer 102 is set to a predetermined time (T
When 6) has elapsed (step Q3), the upper-paste printer 4 and the lower-paste printer 7 start printing the label L (step Q4).

Next, the product is sent to the second product detection sensor 6.
When 0 'is detected (step Q5), the second timer 1
02 'is set (step Q7). Thereafter, when the value of the second timer 102 'has passed a predetermined time (T7) (step Q9), the upper labeling machine 5 and the lower labeling machine 8 start applying the label L (step Q10). . Until a predetermined time (T5) elapses after the first sensor 60 detects the product M, the second sensor 60 '
Does not detect the product M (step Q8), that is, if the product M remains undetected, it is determined that a defect such as stagnation of the product or connection of a plurality of bags has occurred, and an error is detected by the error determination unit 103. It is determined, and the above-described error processing is performed.

Here, after the commodity M is detected by the first sensor 60 and then the commodity M is detected by the second sensor 60 ′,
After a predetermined time (T7), the application of the label L is started. Then, a predetermined time (T5) has elapsed since the detection of the product M by the first sensor 60, and although the product would normally be conveyed to the second sensor 60 ', the sensor 6
If 0 ′ is still in the non-detection state, it is determined that an error has occurred, and the attachment of the label L is not started. Thus, even when the product M is not conveyed to the predetermined label application position after a predetermined time, it is possible to prevent the label from being erroneously applied to the conveyor 2 and the like around the label application position.

In the above description, the upper application printer 4 and the lower application printer 7 start printing labels after a lapse of a predetermined time (T6) from the detection of the product M by the first sensor 60. The value of the time (T6) may be a different value for each of the printer 4 for top application and the printer 7 for bottom application. In addition, a predetermined time (T
Similarly, the value of 7) may be a separate value for the upper labeling machine 5 and the lower labeling machine 8.

When the first sensor 60 detects the product M, printing may be started immediately (T6).
(This corresponds to the case where the value of T7 is zero), and when the second sensor 60 'detects the product M, the sticking may be started immediately (corresponding to the case where the value of T7 is zero).

[Third Embodiment] Next, a label sticking apparatus 1 according to still another embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This device 1 is the same as the first embodiment except for the configuration related to the timer. Hereinafter, only the configuration relating to the timer and the operation of the entire apparatus will be described.

<Overall Operation> FIG. 12 shows the operation of the present apparatus.
Will be described along the flow of FIG. The control unit 50 of the label sticking apparatus 1 has a first timer 102 and a second timer 102 '.

When the packaged product M is supplied from the packaging device 100 onto the conveyor 2 and the product detection sensor 60 detects the front end of the product M (step R1), the first timer 102 is set (step R1). R2). afterwards,
When the value of the first timer 102 elapses a predetermined time (T8) (step R3), the printer 4 for upper application and the printer 7 for lower application start printing the label L (step R3).
4).

After a further lapse of time, the product detection sensor 60
Detects the rear end of the product M, that is, when the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state (step R5), the second timer 102 'is set (step R7). At this time, the value of the first timer 102 is set to a predetermined time (T11).
Has elapsed (step R9), the second timer 10
When the value of 2 has passed a predetermined time (T9) (step R11), the upper labeling machine 5 and the lower labeling machine 8 start applying the label L (step R1).
2).

Here, the front end of the product is detected, that is,
When the goods start to pass through the detecting means, the printer for top application 4
Then, the printing of the label is started by the underprinting printer 7.
Label printing time greatly affects the performance of the device,
Starting printing at an early stage is advantageous in terms of performance,
The starting point of the printing start is when the front end of the product is detected.

When the rear end of the product is detected, that is, when the product has passed through the detecting means, the labeling machine 5
Then, the label application machine 8 starts the application of the label. The time for applying the label has a small effect on the performance of the device, but regarding the accuracy of application of the device, it is advantageous to set the time closer to the label application position as the starting point of application,
The starting point of the start of the attachment is at the time of detecting the rear end of the product. Here, an inexpensive and high-precision label sticking apparatus is configured using one product detection sensor.

Next, if the predetermined time (T10) has elapsed (step R8) while the commodity detection sensor 60 remains in the detection state (step R6), a defect such as stagnation of the commodity or connection of a plurality of bags occurs. The error determination means 10
An error is determined in 3 and the above-described error processing is performed.

If the value of the first timer 102 has not passed the predetermined time (T11) when the commodity detection sensor 60 is in the non-detection state (step R5), the defective packaging An error is determined by the error determination unit 103 as if a product or the like has occurred and has not been transported normally after detection, or has been removed by the operator, and error processing described later is performed.

Here, when the product detection sensor 60 detects the front end of the product M and then detects the rear end of the product M, the label L starts to be applied a predetermined time (T9) after the detection of the rear end. Then, when a predetermined time (T10) has elapsed from the front end detection and the sensor 60 is in the detection state in spite of the fact that the product would normally have passed, the attachment of the label L is not started. Thus, even when the product M is not conveyed to the predetermined label application position after a predetermined time, it is possible to prevent the label from being erroneously applied to the conveyor 2 and the like around the label application position.

Further, when the sensor 60 is in the non-detection state even though the predetermined time (T11) has not elapsed from the detection of the front end, it is conceivable that the product has been removed from the conveyor 2 or the like. ) Does not start labeling. Thus, even when the product M is not conveyed to the predetermined label application position after a predetermined time, it is possible to prevent the label from being erroneously applied to the conveyor 2 and the like around the label application position.

In the above description, the value of the predetermined time (T8) may be a different value for each of the printer 4 for top application and the printer 7 for bottom application. Similarly, the value of the predetermined time (T9) may be a different value for the upper labeling machine 5 and the lower labeling machine 8 respectively. Printing may be started immediately when the sensor 60 detects the front end of the product M (corresponding to the case where the value of T8 is zero), or immediately when the rear end of the product M is detected. Pasting may be started (corresponding to the case where the value of T9 is zero).

[Other Embodiments] In each of the above embodiments, the printed label is held on the sticking portion.
After the start of printing, the printing may be temporarily stopped when printing is almost completed, and the printing may be restarted at the timing when the product is conveyed, so that the remaining printing is finished and the label is issued. At this time, the label is held by the printing unit. In such a configuration, since there is no need to adjust the timing of sticking in the label sticking machine 8 for sticking below, the regulating member 86 becomes unnecessary. In this case, the first-stage printing corresponds to label printing in each embodiment, and the second-stage printing (for label attachment) corresponds to label attachment in each embodiment. In each of the above embodiments, the upper bonding machine and the lower bonding machine are provided, but only one of them may be provided. In addition, a plurality of one or both of the upper pasting machine and the lower pasting machine may be provided.

[0077]

As described above, according to the present invention, even if a defect such as stagnation of a product or connection of a plurality of bags occurs in the label pasting device and the product is not conveyed to a predetermined label pasting position after a predetermined time, The label can be prevented from being erroneously affixed to a conveyor or the like around the label affixing position. Further, in such a case, an error is determined and reported, so that the operator can be alerted. Then, by performing a predetermined operation, the operator can attach the printed label to the next product, so that the label is not wasted and the trouble of removing the printed label from the printing unit or the attaching unit is eliminated. Can be omitted.
Further, the operator can transfer the printed label to the label take-out position by performing a predetermined operation, so that the label can be taken out safely and easily.

When label printing is started at the time of detecting the front end of a product and labeling is started at the time of detecting the rear end of the product, an inexpensive and high-precision labeling apparatus can be provided by using one detecting means. Can be configured.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional front view of a system employing a label sticking apparatus according to a first embodiment and a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the system.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the upper pasting machine.

FIG. 4 is a sectional front view of the lower pasting machine.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are conceptual diagrams each showing a part of a product information storage unit.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an operation flow of the label pasting device according to the first embodiment.

7 (a) and 7 (b) are cross-sectional front views of the underlaying machine.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a flow of an error process.

FIG. 9 is a sectional front view of the lower pasting machine.

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional front view of a system employing a label sticking apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an operation flow of the label pasting device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an operation flow of the label pasting device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional front view of a system employing a conventional label sticking apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Label sticking apparatus 2 Transport conveyor 3 Top sticking machine 6 Lower sticking machine 70 Discharge conveyor L Label M Product

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuing from the front page (72) Inventor: Kitagawa required 959, Shimoda, Ritto-cho, Kurita-gun, Shiga Prefecture Inside the Ishida Shiga Plant (72) Inventor: Motoyuki Hasegawa 1 F-term in Ishida Shiga Plant (reference) 3E095 CA01 CA02 DA63 DA81 EA03 EA09 EA22 EA33 EA40 FA25

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A labeling device having a transporting unit for transporting a product, a printing unit for printing product information on a label, and a sticking unit for sticking the label on the product, and affixing a label to the product being transported. In the apparatus, a detecting means for detecting a product, and when the detecting means detects the product, the printing unit starts printing a label and a predetermined time (T
1) A label sticking apparatus, comprising: a control unit that starts sticking a label to the sticking unit if the detecting unit is in a non-detection state after a lapse of time. 2. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein, when the detecting means detects a product, the control unit causes the printing unit to start printing a label after a lapse of a predetermined time (T2) from the detection and a predetermined time from the detection. Time (T
1) A label sticking apparatus, wherein if the detection means is in a non-detection state after a lapse of time, a label is started to be stuck on the sticking section after a lapse of a predetermined time (T3) from the detection. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the detecting means is in a detection state after a lapse of a predetermined time (T1) from the detection, or before the lapse of a predetermined time (T4) from the detection. A label sticking apparatus comprising: an error discriminating unit that discriminates an error when the unit is in a non-detection state. 4. A label pasting unit having a transporting unit for transporting a product, a printing unit for printing product information on a label, and a pasting unit for pasting the label on the product, wherein the label is pasted on the product being transported. In the apparatus, first and second detecting means for detecting a product, and when the first detecting means detects a product, the printing unit starts printing a label, and the second detecting means detects the product. Upon detection, a control unit for starting application of a label to the application unit, and the second detection unit remains in the non-detection state until a predetermined time (T5) elapses from the detection of the product by the first detection unit. And an error discriminating means for discriminating an error. 5. The control unit according to claim 4, wherein, when the first detection means detects a product, the control unit causes the printing unit to start printing a label after a lapse of a predetermined time (T6) from the detection. 2. A label sticking apparatus, wherein when the detecting means detects the product, the sticking section starts sticking the label after a lapse of a predetermined time (T7) from the detection. 6. A label pasting unit having a transporting unit for transporting a product, a printing unit for printing product information on a label, and a pasting unit for pasting the label on the product, wherein the label is pasted on the product being transported. In the apparatus, when detecting means for detecting a product, when the detecting means detects the front end of the product being transported, the printing unit starts printing a label, and when the rear end of the product is detected, A label attaching device, comprising: a control unit for starting attachment of a label. 7. The control unit according to claim 6, wherein when the detecting means detects a front end of the article being conveyed, the printing unit starts printing a label after a lapse of a predetermined time (T8) from the detection of the front end. In addition, a label sticking apparatus, wherein when a rear end of the product is detected, a predetermined time (T9) elapses from the detection of the rear end, and the sticking unit starts to stick a label. 8. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said detecting means is in a detection state after a lapse of a predetermined time (T10) from said front end detection, or before a lapse of a predetermined time (T11) from said front end detection. An apparatus for labeling, comprising: an error determining unit that determines an error when the detecting unit is in a non-detecting state. 9. The label sticking apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a notifying means for notifying the error when the error is determined. 10. The label according to claim 3, wherein the printing unit or the sticking unit holds the printed label in a standby state when the error is determined. Sticking device. 11. The label sticking apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the held label is stuck to the next product. 12. The label sticking apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the held label is transferred to a label take-out position where the label can be taken out.