JP5833025B2 - System and process for applying thermal transfer labels - Google Patents

Description

[Cross-reference of related applications]
This application claims priority based on international application PCT / US2010 / 43343 filed on July 27, 2010, and is a continuation-in-part of this application. No. 61 / 228,719 filed on Jul. 27, 2009, 61 / 299,165 filed Jan. 29, 2010, and Jan. 20, 2010. Claims the benefit of 61 / 296,715 of the application. This application also claims priority from US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 853,429, filed Aug. 10, 2010, and is a continuation-in-part of that application. This application also claims priority from US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 532,845, filed Sep. 24, 2009, and is a continuation-in-part of that application. This application is 371 of international application PCT / US2008 / 59397 filed on April 4, 2008, and US provisional applications 60 / 910,282 and May 5, 2007 filed on April 5, 2007. Claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 938,019, filed on May 15th. This application also claims priority from US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 237,737, filed on Sep. 25, 2008, and is a continuation-in-part of that application. This application is a continuation-in-part of international application PCT / US2008 / 59397 filed on April 4, 2008, and US Provisional Application No. 60 / 910,282 filed on April 5, 2007, and It claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 938,019, filed May 15, 2007. This application also claims priority from US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 237,761, filed Sep. 25, 2008, and is a continuation-in-part of that application. This application is a continuation-in-part of international application PCT / US2008 / 59397 filed on April 4, 2008, and US Provisional Application No. 60 / 910,282 filed on April 5, 2007, and It claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 938,019, filed May 15, 2007. This application also claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61 / 299,151, filed Jan. 27, 2010. All of the aforementioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[Technical field]
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for attaching a thermal transfer label to a curved surface, in particular, a composite curved surface. The present invention also relates to label application processing, and more particularly to application of a thermal transfer label to a container. The present invention is particularly directed to labeling on a curved container surface and fixation without detachment to the curved container surface.

  It is known to apply a label to a container or bottle to provide information such as the supplier or the contents of the container. Such containers and bottles can be used in a wide variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate many different types of materials such as detergents, chemical products, personal care products, motor oils, beverages, and the like.

  Polymer film materials and film facestocks have been used as labels in various fields. Polymer labels are desired in more and more applications, especially as transparent polymer labels, because they do not give any label image to decorated glass or plastic containers. The paper label hinders visibility of the container and / or contents within the container. The transparent polymer label enhances the visual beauty of the container and thus the product. Consumer product manufacturers are constantly striving to improve the appearance of their products, and the popularity of polymer labels in the package decoration market is growing faster than the popularity of paper labels. Polymer film labels also have superior mechanical properties such as greater tensile strength and abrasion resistance compared to those of paper labels.

  It can be difficult to attach a conventional polymer pressure sensitive (PSA) label smoothly to a container having a curved surface and / or a complex shape without wrinkling, darting, or lifting of the curved surface. Often. As a result, heat shrinkable sleeve labels have been commonly used for this type of container having a complex curved surface. The labeling operation for a sleeve type label creates a tube or sleeve made of heat-shrinkable film, puts it on the container and heats it, thereby shrinking the film to the size and shape of the container Performed using adaptive processes and methods. Alternatively, the process of winding the container completely with a shrink label, applying the shrink film directly to the container from a continuous roll of film material, and then applying heat to apply the wrapped label to conform to the container. used. Inevitably, a label failure often occurs during a labeling process or a process after labeling, during a simple or complex-shaped bin application operation. These defective labels result in high waste or extra processing steps that are costly.

  Therefore, there is a need for a process that can affix a design or indicia to a curved surface, particularly a complex curved surface, without generating defects.

  Eliminating or reducing the aforementioned problems can also bring additional benefits, such as reducing the total capital cost for the processing equipment, reducing the floor area associated with the labeling process, and heat By reducing the exposure, the life of the apparatus can be extended, and the consistency and reliability of the process can be improved as a result of the simplified process.

US Pat. No. 6,897,281 US Pat. No. 5,264,532 US Pat. No. 5,164,444 US Pat. No. 5,623,011 US Pat. No. 6,306,982 US Pat. No. 5,705,551 US Pat. No. 5,232,958 U.S. Pat. No. 3,239,478 US Pat. No. 3,251,905 US Pat. No. 3,390,207 U.S. Pat. No. 3,598,887 U.S. Pat. No. 4,219,627 US Pat. No. 3,639,521 U.S. Pat. No. 4,208,356 U.S. Pat. No. 3,113,986 U.S. Pat. No. 4,226,952 U.S. Pat. No. 4,578,429 U.S. Pat. No. 4,657,970 U.S. Pat. No. 4,795,782 US Pat. No. 6,153,288 US Pat. No. 6,106,982 U.S. Pat. No. 4,192,703 US Pat. No. 4,561,928 US Pat. No. 4,724,029 US Pat. No. 5,785,798 U.S. Patent No. 7,318,877 US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0153427 US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0113965 International Publication No. WO2008 / 124581 US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0038736 US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0038737 U.S. Pat. No. 4,610,744 US Pat. No. 6,698,958 US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0185093 US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0275319 US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0009732 US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0100689 International Publication No. WO2004 / 050262 International Publication No. WO2005 / 069256 US Pat. No. 7,758,938 US Pat. No. 6,756,095 International Publication No. WO2002 / 055295 US Pat. No. 6,228,486 US Pat. No. 6,461,722 International Publication No. WO2000 / 20199 International Publication No. WO2000 / 23330 US Pat. No. 6,796,352 International Publication No. WO2002 / 12071 US Patent Publication No. 2007/0281137 International Publication No. WO2007 / 142970

Journal of Material Chemistry, 2007, 17, 2775-2784 Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Engineering, Volume 13, Wiley Interscience Publishing Company (New York, 1988) Polymer Science and Technology, Volume 1, Interscience Publisher (New York, 1964) Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Engineering, Volume 2, (1985) John Wiley and Sons, New York, pages 325-326 Block copolymer by Jee McGrath, Science and Technology, edited by Dale Jameyer, Harwood Academy Publishers, 1979, pp. 1-5

  The present invention provides an advance in methods for applying designs to articles by means of labeling operations, particularly thermal transfer labeling.

  The difficulties and shortcomings of prior known systems and methods are overcome with the present methods and apparatus associated with heated flexible members. In the method, one or more designs are easily and steadily applied to a container, particularly a container having a complex curved surface, using a thermal transfer label assembly, without causing problems.

  In one aspect of the invention, a method is provided for applying a thermal transfer design from a support member or web to a container. The thermal transfer design includes an area of ink or other colored paint disposed on the support member. The method includes: (i) a rigid frame defining a second surface oriented in a direction opposite to the first surface and defining an opening extending between the first surface and the second surface; , (Ii) disposed adjacent to at least one of the first and second surfaces of the frame, extending through the opening in the frame and projecting outward from the second surface of the frame. Providing a label processing apparatus including a flexible member. The flexible member defines an outer surface for contacting the support member. The flexible member also defines an inner hollow region accessible from the first side of the frame. The flexible member is deformable when a label contact force is applied to a portion of the member protruding outward from the second surface of the frame. The method also includes heating the flexible member. The method further includes positioning a thermal transfer design and support member between the outer surface of the flexible member and the container. The method further includes contacting the support member and the outer surface of the flexible member to contact the container and the thermal transfer design. The method also includes applying a label contact force to the flexible member, thereby deforming the flexible member and transferring the thermal transfer design at least partially to the container.

  In another aspect of the invention, a label processing system is provided that includes a thermal transfer label that includes a support member or web and an area of ink or other colored paint disposed on the support member. The label processing system also includes a label processing device that contacts the container and heats it simultaneously. The label processing apparatus (i) defines a second surface oriented in the opposite direction to the first surface, and defines a opening that extends between the first surface and the second surface. A frame and (ii) disposed adjacent to at least one of the first and second surfaces of the frame and extending through an opening in the frame and outward from the second surface of the frame And a flexible member protruding from the surface. The flexible member defines an outer surface for contacting the label. The flexible member also defines an inner hollow region accessible from the first side of the frame. The flexible member is deformable when a label contact force is applied to a portion of the member protruding outward from the second surface of the frame.

  Obviously, the invention is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regarded merely as illustrative and not restrictive.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory view of a typical container having a complex curved surface.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of the container of FIG. 1 with the label ideally affixed to the outer surface of the container and extending into the area of the compound curved surface.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of the container of FIG. 1 with labels and darts as would typically occur after application to the container using currently known techniques.

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of a flexible member of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the flexible member shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the flexible member shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment frame assembly and flexible member held and supported by a housing according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is another front perspective view revealing the inner region, frame assembly, and housing of the flexible member shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the flexible member, frame assembly, and housing of FIGS. 7 and 8.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible member, frame assembly, and housing taken along line AA in FIG.

FIG. 11 is a front view of a preferred flexible member according to the present invention and another preferred embodiment frame assembly.

12 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment frame assembly shown in FIG. 11 without a flexible member.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a container with a label partially attached to the container according to the preferred method of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the container and partially attached label shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing initial contact between the label of FIGS. 13 and 14 and the container according to a preferred flexible member according to the preferred method of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating further contact between the label, the container, and the flexible member after the state shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating further contact between the label, the container and the flexible member after the state shown in FIG.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating further contact between the label, the container and the flexible member after the state shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating further contact between the label, the container and the flexible member after the state shown in FIG. FIG. 19 shows a general rolling form with a flexible member adopted for a later stage.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating the deformation of the flexible member resulting from contact with a container having a curved outer contour.

FIG. 21 is a preferred assembly of a flexible member and frame assembly for applying multiple labels to multiple containers in parallel.

FIG. 22 is a top elevational view of a preheat assembly using the assembly of FIG.

FIG. 23 is a top elevational view of the assembly shown in FIG. 21 with additional components added.

FIG. 24 is a schematic front view of another preferred embodiment flexible member according to the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a schematic front view of yet another preferred embodiment flexible member according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a front view of a typical guide corresponding to the shape of the container to be labeled.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment rapid change assembly having a flexible member in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a collection of quick change assemblies according to the present invention.

29 is a front view of the assembly set shown in FIG.

FIG. 30 is a front view of a set of quick change assemblies using different sized bags.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a representative container and partially affixed label.

FIG. 32 is a top plan view of the container and label shown in FIG.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment sliding assembly according to the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment sliding member used in the sliding assembly of FIG.

FIG. 35 illustrates a preferred embodiment sliding assembly for applying a region of a label to a container.

FIG. 36 schematically illustrates the configuration of the label partially in contact with the container. FIG. 37 schematically illustrates the configuration of the label partially in contact with the container.

FIG. 38 schematically illustrates another configuration of the label partially in contact with the container. FIG. 39 schematically illustrates another configuration of the label partially in contact with the container.

FIG. 40 schematically illustrates another configuration of the label partially in contact with the container. FIG. 41 schematically illustrates another configuration of the label partially in contact with the container.

FIG. 42 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 43 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 44 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 45 illustrates an unfavorable condition that may occur during the pasting operation. FIG. 46 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 47 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 48 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 49 schematically represents the processing of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention.

  The present invention provides further advances in techniques, methods, components, and apparatus for applying labels and films on curved surfaces, such as the outer curved surfaces of various containers. While the present invention has been described primarily in terms of applying a thermal transfer label or related assembly to a container, it is clear that the present invention is not limited to containers. Instead, the present invention can be used to apply a variety of labels or films to the surface of almost any type of article. In particular, the present invention is intended to apply a thermal transfer label to a curved container surface. In particular, the present invention is intended to attach labels such as thermal transfer labels to the complex curved surfaces of various containers. Various preferred device descriptions are provided herein for applying a pressure sensitive label and / or a shrinkable label, although it will be appreciated that the preferred device and associated components are also applicable to thermal transfer labeling. Can be used.

  In this specification, a container having a curved surface or a compound curved surface is referred to. A curved surface is a surface defined by a line that moves along a curved trajectory. A compound curved surface is a specific type of curved surface in which the aforementioned line is a curved line. Examples of compound curved surfaces include, but are not limited to, a sphere, a hyperbolic paraboloid, and an outer surface of a round roof. Obviously, the present invention can be used to apply labels and films to a wide variety of surfaces, including flat and simple curved surfaces. However, as explained in greater detail herein, the present invention is particularly suitable for applying labels and films to complex curved surfaces.

[Thermal transfer label pasting]
A widely adopted method for imprinting designs on articles is thermal transfer labeling. This process typically uses a paper base sheet or web with a label that includes a release layer whose design is imprinted with ink or other colored paint. One successful technique of thermal transfer decoration is to apply the label to the heat and pressure by pressing the web carrying the label against the article and feeding the label, ie, the article to a transfer site that transfers the design to the outer surface of the article. Is used to transfer to a bottle or other article.

  In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, various label processing devices, and in particular their corresponding flexible members, can be used in containers, bottles, or other areas where one or more designs are a problem from a web or other transfer member. Used for sticking to articles. The label processing apparatus of the preferred embodiment and their flexible members are suitable for use in thermal transfer labeling operations, and are particularly suitable for applying designs to complex curved surfaces.

  More particularly, the present invention provides a thermal transfer labeling method employing a decorative laminate including a design that is transferred from a support member or web to an article. The support member or web is heated to a first temperature at which the decorative laminate design can be peeled from the support member. In certain embodiments, the surface of the flexible member is more conveniently brought to a second, somewhat lower temperature. In another embodiment, the surface of the flexible member is at a second temperature that is higher than the temperature of the web. In yet another embodiment, the surface of the flexible member is at the same temperature as the web. The decorative laminate and design are pressed against the article forming the adhesive adhesive. Simultaneously with the retraction of the flexible member, the support member or web is now easily peeled away from the design that is now attached to the article or otherwise placed on the article. In the following description, the thermal transfer label assembly primarily includes a decorative laminate that includes one or more designs to be transferred to the corresponding article. The thermal transfer label assembly also includes a support member or web upon which the decorative laminate is placed. The thermal transfer label assembly may include one or more release layers between the decorative laminate and the web to facilitate release of the design from the web. The decorative laminate may also include additional components such as an outer layer of thermal transfer adhesive. As soon as the decorative laminate is brought into contact with the article, the adhesive promotes retention and adhering of the design to the article.

  In a preferred embodiment, the thermal transfer label assembly includes a non-wax based adhesive / release layer that is in direct contact with the support member or web. The adhesive / release layer functions as a release layer, and as the decorative laminate is pressed against the article and transferred from the web to the article, the support member is heated and the adhesive is also heated. The decorative laminate can be peeled from the support portion. The thermal transfer label assembly may include a wax-based release layer that is interposed between the adhesive / release layer and the support. The non-wax adhesive / release layer is softened by heating the support member and is released from the support member during transfer. This layer can also function as an adhesive that forms a permanent bond to the article during transfer.

  The thermal transfer label assembly further includes an ink design. Optionally, the thermal transfer label assembly includes a protective coating layer over the ink layer. However, this layer may be omitted for many applications.

  Optionally, the thermal transfer label assembly further comprises a barrier layer that falls between the adhesive / release layer and the ink layer. When included, the barrier layer functions to prevent absorption of ink into the non-wax adhesive / release layer.

  This embodiment has an advantage that the decorative laminated product can be constituted by a single-color decorative design or a multi-color decorative design including an intermediate gradation color. Another advantage of the embodiment is that the decorative laminate can be transferred to virtually any type of article, regardless of the shape or degree of surface curvature, without causing distortion in the imprinting of the design. Thus, the article may be composed of, for example, earthenware, glass, plastic, paper foil, and various polymeric materials, and the surface to which the transfer substrate is transferred may be flat or may be a composite curved surface, non-curved surface. It may include regular surfaces, or recessed panels. More particularly, for certain applications, the article to which the design (s) are transferred is a fabric or fabric that includes woven and non-woven fabrics.

  The thermal transfer label assembly of the preferred embodiment comprises a paper sheet or web that is covered with various layers, one side of which constitutes a decorative laminate. The decorative laminate mainly includes a resin coating layer (that is, an adhesive / release layer) in contact with the support, an ink layer covering the resin coating layer, and a protective coating layer covering the ink layer. .

  In yet another embodiment, various label processing devices, such as those described herein, can be applied to thermal transfer labeling and permeable or “breathable” to apply designs to fabrics, fabrics, and the like. Can be used with some adhesives.

  A typical thermal transfer label with permeable adhesive and / or ink is as follows. In general, a thermal transfer label is comprised of four layers: a temporary support layer, an indicia layer, a thermal transfer adhesive layer, an indicia layer, and a support. And a release layer in contact with them. When affixed to the fabric, the label is placed on the fabric with a thermal transfer adhesive layer that contacts the fabric. The label sticking process can be fixed after being performed by any of several known sticking processes, that is, a direct attachment process, a chip-on process, a blow-on process, and the like. Preferably, an indicia layer and a layer of thermal transfer adhesive are applied to the fabric using the label processing apparatus described herein and its flexible members.

  Heat can be applied from the temporary support side. The temporary support is then removed from the release layer, leaving only the printed indicia attached to the fabric surface with adhesive. The temporary support and release layer form the support portion of the label, which serves as a carrier for the label but is not transferred to the fabric. The indicia layer and the layer of thermal transfer adhesive form a transfer portion of the label that is transferred to the fabric. Each layer of the transfer portion of the label is desirably breathable. Each layer of the support portion is not necessarily transferred to the fabric, and thus does not necessarily have air permeability.

  The thermal transfer label can further include at least one of the following layers in the transfer portion: a white layer located between the indicia and the adhesive layer, an indicia and a release layer And a transparent layer located between the white layer and the adhesive layer when a white layer is used. The white layer can provide a contrasting background color for the indicia, so that the indicia aspect is not significantly offset by the fabric color. The transparent layer can be used to protect the indicia layer and improve the adhesion of the indicia layer to the release layer. Another transparent layer can be used to improve the adhesion between the adhesive layer and the white layer.

  The transport support or web provides mechanical strength to the label structure to facilitate processing and handling. The transport support or web allows the label sheets to be rolled or stacked for storage until further processing or attachment to the garment item occurs. Paper or polymer film can be used as the carrier. A preferred carrier is a thermally stable polymer film such as PET. A wide variety of materials can be used as the carrier, support member, or web. In addition to the materials described herein, it is contemplated that fabrics, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, woven fabrics could also be used as a carrier. It is further contemplated that a thermal transfer label assembly could also include one or more fabric or fabric layers. All combinations of these materials are also conceivable. The preferred thickness of the carrier film is 2-7 mils (2 / 1000-7 / 1000 inches). More preferably, it is 4 to 6 mils (4/1000 to 6/1000 inches) thick.

  The release layer is a low melting point material that, when in use, has suitable adhesion to an indicia layer or transparent coating. Suitable adhesion means that an indicia or transparent coating can be attached to the release layer, but can also be peeled from the release layer in a thermal transfer process. The release for the release layer may be a wax-based material or silicone. The stripping may further include a sticking agent such as a matting agent and other additives. A hydrophilic wax is preferred in situations where the wax is selected for stripping and the particular type of wax can contaminate the surface of the breathable label after thermal transfer. The preferred melting point for the wax is in the range of 70 ° C to 150 ° C. It is more preferable to use a wax having a melting point in the range of 100 ° C to 120 ° C. An example of a hydrophilic wax is UniSox D-300, a nonionic wax emulsion manufactured by Baker Petrolite Co., which is 23.5% solid. Another example is E6 delamination available from Avery Dennison ARIS Division. The wax layer may be solvent or aqueous and may contain the same set of additives as the layer of the transfer portion of the label, described in detail below. The wax layer is printed or applied. The thickness of the wax release layer is between about 1 and about 10 microns, but more desirably between about 1 and about 5 microns.

  In certain embodiments, each layer of the thermal transfer label that is affixed to the article desirably is breathable, that is, is permeable to moisture. Breathability results from the use of a polymer that can form an air permeable film. These polymers are hydrophilic in nature and form uniform films, i.e. films without microporous interconnect structures. The breathability of these hydrophilic polymers is a result of water molecule diffusion and conduction along the side chains of the hydrophilic polymer. This mechanism is described in detail in Non-Patent Document 1 (Journal of Material Chemistry, 2007, 17, pages 2775-2784), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Hydrophilic polymers can also absorb condensed water and can be treated generally as water capillarity, allowing water to pass through a polymer film.

Breathable hydrophilic polymers include aqueous dispersions and solvent-based dispersions. Examples of aqueous hydrophilic polymer dispersions include Permax 202, Permax 230, Permax 300, and Permax 803. These are all made by Lubrizol, Wickliff, Ohio, USA. A preferred hydrophilic breathable polymer is bound as a side chain instead of part of the main backbone as described by Lubbin et al. In US Pat. No. 6,897,281, cited above. Polyalkylene oxide. Permax 230 is a non-ionic stabilized polyurethane dispersion having a solid value of 33%. Permax 230 with an upright water cup ^{(ASTM E96B) 500g / m 2} / day, and has a MVTR value for dry film 4500 g / ^{m 2} / day with an inverted water cup (ASTM E96BW). Permax 230 also has a melt viscosity that can flow into the fabric when melted at temperatures above 250 ° F. where the formulation of breathable hot melt adhesive is ideal.

  Examples of solvent-based hydrophilic polymers include Breathable Polyurethane SU-55-074 manufactured by Starl. It is a 30% solid solvent in a toluene / IPA mixture. Such polymers can also be cross-linked through urethane groups using polyisocyanates such as HDI trimer coronate HXLV from Nippon Polyurethane Industry. Preferred solvents for such polymers include propylene and dipropylene glycol.

  In addition to the hydrophilic polymer, the formulation for each layer of the transfer portion may further include a liquid carrier and one or more of the following components: polymers, waxes, additives, pigments, and the like. Additives include chemical products such as humectants, rheological modifiers, surface tension modifiers, leveling agents, release agents and the like.

  The liquid carrier may be water or a solvent. Examples of suitable solvents include dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monobutyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, γ-butyrolactone, n-ethylpyrrolidinone and the like. When water is used as the liquid carrier, the water may still require the presence of a synergist to help the stability of the formulation. Suitable dissolution synergists include propylene glycol ethers, esters, and ethylene glycol ether / esters. Examples of dissolution synergists include dipropylene glycol dimethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monobutyl ether, dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, and monopropylene glycol systems.

  The humectant retains the fluidity and moisture of the formulation being processed. Examples of humectants include: a mixture of glycol and wax, such as monopropylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, glycerol or the like, or Aqualube AQ54 from Nazdal.

  Rheological modifiers impart suitable flow characteristics to the formulation. Newtonian or viscoelastic flow properties are preferred for the formulation. In the case of screen printing, the viscosity of the preparation is preferably 10,000 cp to 100,000 cp. For other printing methods such as flexographic or gravure printing, the viscosity of the formulation is desirably in the low range, for example 5-250 cp, with Newtonian fluid properties being preferred. Examples of rheological modifiers include semi-hydrophilic polyurethanes such as DSX1415 from Cognis, Bochgel L75N from Bochers, or alkali swellable thickeners such as UCAR Polyfobs 102 and 106 from Dow Chemical It is.

  The surface tension modifier or surfactant may be anionic or nonionic. Nonionic and nonfluorinated ones with low foaming ability are preferred. Examples of suitable surface tension modifiers include Tego Wet 270 from Tego, Alkoxylated silicones such as Degussa or BYK319 from Big Chemie, Ethoxylated hydrocarbons such as Triton CF-10 from Dow Chemical, or Acetylene derived alcohols such as Surfynol 104E manufactured by Air Products and Chemicals are included.

  Anti-foaming agents such as BYK 24, 28, and 19 manufactured by Big Chemie can also be used.

The pigment is important for the indicia layer and the white layer. A pigment paste predispersed with water or an organic solvent is preferred. Examples of such pigments include the Aurasperse series of pigment concentrates from BASF. Aurasperse W-308 is, for example, a white TiO ₂ concentrate containing 71% solids. This can be used for white background layers. Aurasperse W-7010 is a black pigment concentrate containing 35% solids. This can be used with black ink in the color layer.

  It can be said that the pH buffer is also part of the formulation. The role of the buffer is to extend the pot life of the liquid ink by maintaining the pH value of the formulation and reducing the reactivity of the crosslinker. The pH buffer is also used to control the rheology of the formulation when any form of alkali-induced thickening is employed. A suitable pH buffer is the Dow Chemical amino alcohol product, DMAMP-80, which is an 80% aqueous solution of 2-dimethylamino, 2-methyl, 1-propanol. DMAMP-80 could effectively thicken alkali swellable thickeners such as UCAR polyphobos 102 and 106 from Dow Chemical.

  The optional transparent layer functions as a protective layer or varnish to give the label an increased resistance to abrasion and abrasion. The transparent layer also helps to adjust the adhesion of the label to the supporting release layer. This transparent layer should be placed uniformly. A preferred thickness is from about 1 to about 20 microns.

  The indicia is a color design layer that functions to display the visual information of the label. This layer should be breathable, but breathability can be said to be a function of the solid pigment content of the ink. What is important for the color layer is the amount of color pigment used compared to the dye. Ink color carriers generally provide improved resistance to environmental factors and do not show a tendency to thermal sublimation. Preferred color carriers used for indicia are organic pigments and inorganic pigments. The thickness of the mark (indicia) can be said to be a function of pigment density (preferably the lower limit or minimum required amount that can achieve the essential color density) and air permeability (higher is better). A preferred thickness is from about 10 to about 50 microns.

The white background layer provides a contrasting background for the color design layer. This layer should be uniformly printed and breathable. A preferred thickness is from about 20 to about 200 microns. The white background layer has all the characteristics of the color design layer, in addition, its masking power must overcome the background color of the fabric to which the label is glued, increasing the level of white coloring (solid film mixture More than 50% of the pigment). The white background layer can be omitted when the color of the fabric substrate is white. In the case of this layer, it is preferable to show a uniform background for the indicia, ignoring the color or properties of the fabric substrate. Preferred pigments for this layer are silica or alumina treated TiO ₂ which are also hydrophilic.

The optional transparent layer functions as a tie layer when the white background layer does not provide satisfactory adhesion to the adhesive layer. This is required, especially for white formulations with a slight amount of TiO ₂ applied.

  The adhesive layer used in a typical thermal transfer label meets the following requirements: a) When heated for 5 seconds to about 50 seconds, it melts into the fabric tissue between about 250-350 ° F. Flowing, (b) has a suitable modulus to withstand high temperature wash tests required by some garment manufacturers, and c) has a suitable adhesion to synthetic fibers. The adhesive thickness may be distributed between about 20 to about 500 microns.

  Since the adhesive layer is in contact with the fabric after the thermal transfer process and is therefore hidden behind the indicia layer and other layers (if used), the adhesive layer is made breathable. There are two ways to get into a certain state. That is, a method using a breathable hot melt adhesive, a pattern printing of a non-breathable hot melt adhesive, or a combination of both. When using pattern printing, the adhesive is placed in separate locations, leaving a gap between the adhesives so that moisture or condensed water can penetrate. Breathable adhesives may be used to at least partially fill the spacing between non-breathable adhesives.

When using a breathable thermal transfer label as described herein, the thermal transfer label generally has an MVTR of at least 100 g / m ² / day as measured by ASTM 96E Procedure D. Preferably, MVTR label, when tested in ASTM 96E Procedure D, and distributed 400~900g / ^{m 2} / day.

  As is apparent, the thermal transfer labeling method of the preferred embodiment is not limited to the specific labels, support members, and configurations as described above. Instead, the present invention includes a wide variety of alternative methods and techniques for performing thermal transfer labeling using the preferred embodiment apparatus, ie, a label processing apparatus, as described herein. The following description of various labeling devices is generally made in terms of applying polymer film labels, particularly pressure-sensitive labels and / or heat-shrinkable labels, but the devices may also be used in thermal transfer label assemblies. It can also be used to apply one or more designs, for example in the form of decorative laminates.

[Affixing labels using flexible materials]
Specifically, the present invention has problems such as darts and wrinkles on a curved surface when used in accordance with a flexible label applicator or label processing device member and preferred techniques as described herein. An associated assembly for applying a label is provided without the attendant additional problems. The technique uses a unique parallel heating and sliding action on a curved container surface to provide labeling without failure.

  The flexible member, its various features, and the various frames and associated assemblies for supporting and using the member are all described in detail herein. Also preferred embodiments of labels and films for application to containers are described herein. In addition, preferred embodiments of the adhesive associated with the label and other aspects and details of the label are described herein. Furthermore, all preferred processes for applying labels using flexible member (s) are all described in detail herein.

[Flexible material]
The present invention is configured to contact a label, label assembly, film (s), or other similar parts, and to apply pressure to the label to contact and adhere the label to the surface of the container. A flexible member or diaphragm. Generally, the label is affixed to the outer surface of the container as described above, which is curved or exhibits a curved contour or shape. In many instances, a particular region of the container is one that exhibits a compound curve. Through the use of the present invention, labels can be applied to these areas in a manner that is free from defects.

  The flexible member is sufficiently stiff to maintain the shape of the member itself before it contacts the label (s) or container (s). The member is not excessively stiff and is therefore flexible enough to be easily deformed when in contact, for example when a load such as a label contact force is applied. This preferred feature is described in more detail herein, but is generally shown with reference to a deformable flexible member.

  A flexible member can have a wide variety of different shapes, sizes, and structures as long as it exhibits significant deformable characteristics. Preferably, the flexible member defines an outwardly inflated or dome-shaped surface, such as a convex surface, for contacting the label and / or the container. The flexible member also desirably defines an internal hollow region that is accessible from a location opposite the outwardly bulging contact surface.

  It is also desirable that the flexible member provides heat to the label and / or the container. Thus, the flexible member may extend along at least a portion of its outer surface, preferably when in contact with the label, for the subsequent transfer of such heat to the label and / or container. It is preferable to transfer heat along the bulging surface. Heat can be applied along the surface of the flexible member in a variety of different ways. However, it is usually preferred that the heat source be provided inside the flexible member. The heat inside the flexible member is then transferred through the flexible member wall, for example, by conduction to the outer surface of the member. It is clear that the present invention includes a flexible member that does not include any heating equipment. In this version of the invention, one or more preheaters are used to heat the label and / or film.

  A preferred heat source for the flexible member is a flameless heater, such as an electrical resistance heater. Alternatively, one or more coils of the conduit through which the heated medium passes may be placed inside the flexible member. Another heat source puts the heated medium directly into the hollow interior of the flexible medium. Examples of such media include, but are not limited to, air, other gases, fluids, or flowable liquids. For example, a liquid hydrocarbon such as oil could be used to heat and / or fill the inner hollow region of the flexible member. However, air is often preferred because it is readily available and does not worry about leakage.

  For embodiments in which the heating coil or heating unit is provided inside the flexible member, the particular configuration of the coil or unit can be placed in a desired region of the flexible member, for example, in the outer peripheral region of the dome-shaped outer surface region. It may be provided to optimize heat transfer. In general, the preferred configuration or pattern of the heater depends on the specific shape of the bin and its respective label that the flexible member contacts. Preferably, an elliptical or circular pattern is used with the heater positioned relatively close to the inner wall surface of the flexible member along a region corresponding to the outer region of the label to be applied. This method is preferred because it is usually not necessary to heat the portion (s) of the label already affixed to the container, for example the inner central region (s). This method is described in more detail herein.

  In the preferred version of the flexible member, the outer dome-shaped region and often the side wall attached thereto are bent, deformed and moved as the member is pressed against the container and label. Thus, for example, it is generally preferred that no heating equipment, such as an electrical resistance heating element, be directly attached to the flexible member. However, the present invention contemplates that it would be possible to use such a configuration and arrangement. For example, a flexible printed heating element could be applied to the inner or outer surface of the flexible member. It is also contemplated that an electrical resistance heater could be formed inside the flexible member or otherwise placed inside the member.

  Heating the outer surface of the dome that is in contact with the label of the flexible member can be performed in almost any manner. For example, the use of all or any of a plurality of heat sources, equipment, and other technologies is possible. In certain applications, it may be preferable to use multiple heaters. For example, the first heater can be used to heat the air entering the inner hollow region of the flexible member. The first heater may be, for example, an electric resistance heater. The second heater may be placed inside the flexible member and relatively fixed. The second heater may be in the form of an electrical resistance heater or may use one or more coils through which the heat transfer fluid flows. The heating of the flexible member is performed such that the outer temperature of the flexible member is at least 38 ° C, most preferably from about 120 ° C to about 150 ° C during the labeling operation. As will be apparent, the temperature or temperature range at which the outer surface of the flexible member is heated depends on a number of factors including, for example, the heat shrink properties and adhesive properties of the label. It is also contemplated that another set of heaters could be used to heat the label and / or container before they contact the flexible member. These heaters may be arranged outside the flexible member. For example, one or more infrared heaters could be used. Infrared lamps are preferred because they tend to heat the object, ie the label, but not the surrounding air. Preferably, for certain applications, the label is heated to a temperature of at least 38 ° C. before it is finally applied to the container. A wide variety of heating techniques and techniques can be used to increase the temperature of the outer surface of the flexible member.

  In certain preferred embodiments, it is desirable to use a single heat source. That is, in certain applications, one or more inlet heaters are used to heat the incoming air during or before the flow of air into the flexible member, and one or more inside the flexible member. It is preferable not to use a heater. The heater provided inside the flexible member is preferably a radiant heating element. Eliminating or avoiding such internal heaters can result in significant cost savings. However, as will be apparent, the present invention provides a system in which the heating process is provided exclusively within the flexible member, the heating process is both by the inlet heater and the heater within the flexible member, and the inlet heater. And a system implemented by a system using a third or another auxiliary heater in combination with and / or one of the internal heaters inside the flexible member.

  Another feature provided in certain preferred embodiments relates to the use of one or more air manifolds placed substantially within the flexible member. In a preferred system configuration, hot air continuously circulates through one or more flexible members during the labeling operation. As one or more flexible members are pressed against the corresponding container carrying the label, excess air is evacuated. Next, fresh air is introduced when the flexible member is moved away from the container and label and is no longer in contact with them. By such a method, it is preferable to heat fresh air so as not to use ambient temperature air that would otherwise cool the flexible member.

  Many and / or any of the flexible members, frames, and housing assemblies of the preferred embodiment have a single inlet for hot air flowing along the rear wall surrounding the interior of the flexible member. I use it. Directing hot air into the interior of the flexible member, and in particular to a single inlet, results in a region of higher temperature along the flexible member. Such a non-uniform region is undesirable.

  Thus, for certain applications, it is preferable to use an air manifold or diffuser assembly inside the flexible member. Air manifolds have a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The air manifold serves to disperse hot air inside the flexible member, thereby heating the flexible member more uniformly.

  Airflow manifolds or diffusers come in a variety of different shapes, sizes, and / or structures. For example, one or more diffuser plates may be provided to oppose the induced direction of incoming hot air. Incoming airflow is deflected by the diffuser plate (s) and thereby guided to other areas inside the flexible member. The diffuser plate may be placed directly in the incoming air stream, for example, by securing the plate over the inlet opening. Other members can be used in combination with a diffuser plate such as one or more pins or other flow deflecting members. In general, any member that induces or promotes turbulence inside the flexible member can be used.

  A particularly preferred embodiment of the air manifold is a tube diffuser. The diffuser tube is preferably sized and shaped to fit inside the flexible member in the form of a pipe or conduit in flow communication with the hot air inlet. The pipe or conduit defines an internal flow path that extends longitudinally. The pipe or conduit also defines a plurality of holes or other openings in the side wall of the pipe and either end wall. Air entering the flexible member through the inlet is guided through the pipe and exits the pipe through a plurality of holes. The pattern or arrangement of openings allows the hot air exiting the pipe to uniformly or substantially heat the inside of the flexible member, preferably the front wall of the flexible member that ultimately contacts the label. ing. For example, a typical pattern of openings may include two rows of openings that extend along the length of the pipe. Each hole or opening is about 1.5 mm in diameter and is spaced about 25 mm apart. The two rows are spaced 60 ° apart and are directed towards the inside and the front inside the flexible member. Such an orientation of the rows helps to direct the hot air to the lateral area of the flexible member where hot air is generally needed.

  The inner hollow region of the flexible member is open or communicates with the atmosphere and can be said to be at atmospheric pressure. Alternatively, the communication between the inner region and the outside air may be partially or fully restricted such that the inner region is at a pressure above or below atmospheric pressure. Also, during deformation of the flexible member, the pressure in the inner hollow region of the member changes, and the flexible member is configured or connected to other parts so that it is different from the pressure in the region before deformation. May be. For example, as described in more detail herein, the preferred embodiment provides a partially limited communication between the inner hollow region of the flexible member and the outside air. Prior to deformation, the restriction is not complete and the inner hollow region is at atmospheric pressure. Upon deformation, the volume of the inner hollow region decreases. Due to significant partial limitations and volume reduction, the pressure in the inner hollow region of the flexible member increases to a pressure above atmospheric pressure. The increase in pressure is desirably temporary because air in the inner hollow region can exit the inner region of the flexible member. These aspects are described in more detail herein.

Preferably, the flexible member is not pressurized before the labeling process. That is, desirably, the inner hollow region of the flexible member is at atmospheric pressure. By selectively controlling the flow restriction of air exiting the flexible member during the labeling operation, a controlled increase and retention of pressure within the flexible member can be achieved. Preferably, the contents of the flexible member are evacuated after each labeling operation, so that the pressure inside the flexible member returns to atmospheric pressure. Preferably, the peak pressure measured within the interior hollow region of the flexible member is less than 34,500 N / m ² , more desirably less than 27,600 N / m ² , most desirably 20, Less than 700 N / m ² . However, as will be apparent, the present invention includes other exhaust techniques and the use of peak pressures below or above these mentioned pressures. Normally, during the course of the labeling operation, a somewhat stable and constant air inflow into the flexible member is made through the open exhaust port. The flexible member will partially deflate as it contacts the label and container, and in some cases may collapse as the flexible member fully contacts the label and container.

  As will be appreciated, the present invention provides a wide variety of assemblies for specific applications or in addition to specific applications, in place of the flexible members described herein, for applying labels or films to curved surfaces. Can be used. For example, various mechanical assemblies could be used, particularly using springs or other biasing members. It is also conceivable that a label applicator or label processing member using a compressible foam could be used.

  A flexible member can be formed from almost any material as long as the member is sufficiently flexible, i.e., deformable, and exhibits good thermal conductivity, durability, and wear characteristics. A preferred type of material for the flexible member is silicone.

More precisely, a silicone called polymerized siloxane or polysiloxane is a mixed inorganic organic polymer of the formula [R ₂ SiO] n. Where R is an organic group such as methyl, ethyl, or phenyl. These materials generally comprise an inorganic silicon oxygen backbone (...- Si-O-Si-O-Si-O -...) with organic side chain groups synthesized on tetracoordinated silicon atoms. .

  In some cases, organic side groups can be used to bond two or more of these -Si-O-backbones. By varying -Si-O-chain length, side group, and cross-linking, silicones can be synthesized with a wide variety of properties and compositions. They vary in hardness from liquid to gel, to rubber, to hard plastic. The most common siloxane is linear polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), silicone oil. The second largest group of silicone materials is based on silicone resins. It is made by branched birdcage-like oligosiloxanes.

  A particularly preferred silicone used to form the flexible member is a commercially available silicone elastomer called Rhodolsil® V-240. Rhodolsil® V-240 is available from Blue Star Silicone, Inc., Rock Hill, South Carolina, USA. This silicone elastomer is a two component, additive cure, room temperature or thermally accelerated cured silicone rubber compound. It is called a 60 durometer (Shore A) rubber with high strength properties, long library life, low shrinkage, excellent detail regeneration, good release properties, and improved resistance to inhibition. The formulation of Rhodolsil® V-240 is generally as shown in Table 1 below.

  As described herein, for certain applications, it is desirable to heat the label before or during application of the label to the target surface. As described above, the heating equipment may be incorporated into the inner hollow region of the flexible member. Therefore, it is desirable that the flexible member material exhibit a relatively high thermal conductivity to facilitate heat transfer to the outer surface of the flexible member. Preferably, the flexible member has a thermal conductivity of at least 0.1 W / (m · ° C.), more preferably at least 0.15 W / (m · ° C.), and more preferably at least 0.20 W. / (M · ° C.), more desirably at least 0.25 W / (m · ° C.), and most desirably at least 0.275 W / (m · ° C.).

  For embodiments in which the flexible member is made of a silicone elastomer, the wall thickness of the flexible member is desirably from about 2.3 mm to about 3.0 mm. As will be apparent, the specific wall thickness depends on material selection, desirable deformability characteristics, and other factors. Thus, by no means, the present invention is limited to these wall thicknesses.

  Most preferably, the flexible member is a deformable member projecting outward in a dome shape. The member can include one or more arcuate side walls or a plurality of straight walls arranged to form an inner hollow region. In the preferred version, the flexible member includes four sidewalls extending between the base and the dome-shaped label contact surface. Four walls are placed sideways on adjacent walls to create a square or rectangular shape. The base is preferably in the form of a lip extending along the common edge of the four side walls. A dome-shaped surface extends from the edge of the side wall to the opposite side of the lips. All flexible members, i.e., their base, sidewalls, and dome-shaped surfaces, can be easily formed by molding a silicone elastomer such as the aforementioned Rhodolsil® V-240. The exact shape, size, and structure of the flexible member mainly depends on the shape, size, and structure of the bottle to which the label is attached. For many applications, the flexible member may be an oval shape with a dome-shaped front surface. However, as will be appreciated, the present invention includes flexible members of almost any shape.

  The specific shape and / or structure of the flexible member mainly depends on the shape of the label and the shape or contour of the container. For many applications, a flexible member having a substantially rectangular and symmetrical front profile with arcs or rounded edges may be preferred, but in certain applications, asymmetric front and side profiles. It may be preferred to use a flexible member having both or one of the two. Examples of flexible members having asymmetric profiles are provided and described herein.

[Flexible member frame and assembly]
The present invention also provides a frame for supporting and desirably engaging the flexible member to facilitate positioning and contact of the member with the label and / or container. . The frame is desirably rigid and may be composed of one or more metals, polymeric materials, or composite materials that exhibit the required properties, as described more fully herein.

  Preferably, one shape provides a frame having a relatively planar shape that defines two opposing sides to define a relatively large central opening. The opening is shaped to a predetermined size to accommodate and receive a flexible member. Thus, when a flexible member is positioned within the opening of the frame, the frame extends around the flexible member to provide support for the member and facilitate movement or positioning of the flexible member. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible member includes a plurality of side walls. Thus, desirably, the frame defines an opening having the same shape as the plurality of sidewalls of the flexible member. In the case of a collection of straight side walls of a flexible member, the shape of the opening defined in the frame desirably corresponds to the shape of the collection of side walls. Desirably, the number of straight side walls corresponds to the number of straight edge edges inside the opening of the frame.

  For certain applications, it may be preferable to provide one or more guides that extend from the frame and extend generally parallel to the flexible member when coupled to the frame. Because one or more guide (s) are positioned and oriented relative to the flexible member, the guide serves to limit the extent and / or direction of deformation of the flexible member. Become. The guide can be attached to the frame or otherwise formed in the frame by techniques well known in the art. The guide is preferably arranged around the opening of the aforementioned frame. The guide desirably extends or projects from the front surface of the frame. In certain embodiments, the guide may extend laterally from the front surface of the frame.

  Each guide may also include one or more additional parts, or the guide itself may extend in the desired direction relative to the flexible member. For example, an auxiliary guide member that can be adjustably positioned may be provided along the distal end region of the guide. The auxiliary guide member may extend transversely or at a slight angle to the longitudinal axis of the guide. The position of the auxiliary guide, and in particular its orientation angle, is preferably selectable, which allows the user to change the orientation and position of the auxiliary guide member relative to the flexible member as desired.

  Another preferred feature within many embodiments is the provision of a guide having a specific shape or contour along the inner surface of the guide, i.e., the surface of the guide that faces towards the flexible member. By using a guide having a formed or contoured inner surface, improved contact is facilitated between the flexible member and the container or label. For certain containers with curved or inclined side walls and / or arcuate front or back surfaces, by using a guide with contoured inner sides, between the flexible member and the label Rolling contact is promoted. Further, by providing a guide having an inner side that conforms to or substantially corresponds to the contour of the container side, further displacement of the flexible member around the contour of the container is facilitated. Furthermore, it has been found that using a guide having an inner side corresponding to the shape of the container facilitates labeling of the corners and outer edge regions of the label on the container.

  The frame is preferably made of steel or aluminum, although a wide variety of other materials are contemplated. The guide member and / or the auxiliary guide member are also desirably made of steel or aluminum. The guide may be formed integrally with the frame. Alternatively, the guide may be attached to the frame after formation of the frame, for example, by welding or using one or more fasteners. As mentioned above, the auxiliary guide member (s) are preferably positionable relative to the guide (s) and / or the frame. It is preferred to use a selectively positionable assembly to removably attach each auxiliary guide to the corresponding guide.

  The present invention also provides a housing or other mounting assembly. Preferably, the frame and / or the flexible member is attached to the housing. The housing is desirably sized, shaped and configured to be attached to or secured to the frame. The housing can also serve to accommodate heating equipment for the flexible member. All of these aspects are described herein in more detail.

  It is also desirable for certain embodiments to provide an adjustment assembly that allows the position of the guide to be selectively adjusted relative to the frame. While such an adjustment assembly can be provided in many forms, a preferred assembly includes a pair of vertically oriented rails on which guides can be selectively positioned and engaged. Using such an adjustment assembly allows the vertical position of one or more guides to be easily and conveniently positioned as desired. Vertical positioning of the guide may be desirable to accommodate different size labeling and / or placement on the target container.

  The assembly including the frame and housing, and ultimately the flexible member, can further include one or more additional parts. As mentioned above, the heating equipment is preferably provided inside the inner hollow region of the flexible member. Preferably, such a heating step is performed with one or more electrical resistance heating elements. A variety of different shapes and structures can be employed as the heating element. Further, as described above, the conduit for conveying the heat generating medium that can flow may be arranged in the inner hollow region of the flexible member. In general, it is preferable to provide a suitable insulating member with the heating element to prevent direct contact with the flexible member. However, if the flexible member is made of a material that is sufficiently resistant to high temperatures, such an insulating member may not be necessary.

  The assembly of the frame, flexible member, and housing desirably further includes a vent plate extending across the open rear region of the flexible member. The vent plate allows access to the inner hollow region of the flexible member. When incorporated into the assembly, the vent plate contacts the rearwardly facing surface of the flexible member and / or the frame, preferably sealingly. The vent plate desirably defines one or more openings extending through the vent plate that are permeable to air. Air is introduced through these openings and can either pressurize the flexible member and / or heat the flexible member. Upon deformation of the flexible member, for example after contact with the label and container, air is directed out of the flexible member's hollow interior through one or more openings defined by the vent plate. The total flow area of the vent plate opening can be selected or changed to limit or control the velocity of air flowing in or out of the flexible member. This approach can be used to slow the rate of deformation of the flexible member. These aspects are described in more detail herein.

  For specific applications, especially those that require mass production, all or any of the frame (s), such as a parallel structure with parts parallel to each other, the flexible member (s), and the housing (s) It is desirable to use such multiple assemblies.

  Another optional feature of the present invention is the provision of a “quick change” head assembly. In these embodiments, a releasable head assembly is provided that carries a flexible member, any heater (s), a frame, and electrical components within the flexible member. The releasable head assembly can easily engage and disengage from a relatively large frame or support assembly or engage and disengage from a walking beam device well known in the art. Providing a releasable head assembly allows one flexible member and its corresponding assembly to be quickly and efficiently exchanged with the other flexible member and its corresponding assembly. This may be desirable when the use of a flexible member having a particular structure is preferred over another flexible member having a different structure. The releasable head assemblies are desirably configured so that they are easily engageable or fixable to other frames or walking beam devices. The power and signal connections are preferably made by plug connections. However, the present invention includes the use of another connection system. These and other aspects are described in more detail herein, along with a description of representative preferred embodiments.

[Label / Film]
As noted above, it is preferred that various systems, equipment, and components be used to apply a thermal transfer label and / or indicia to an article. As will be apparent, the system, equipment, and components can also be used to apply a pressure sensitive label and / or a shrinkable label to an article.

  The application of the polymer film useful for the label structure targeted by the present invention desirably has a well-balanced shrinkage characteristic. With well-balanced shrinkage properties, the film can shrink in multiple directions, thereby following the contour of a complex curved surface when the label is applied to a curved surface. It is possible to use an unbalanced shrinkable film, i.e. a film having a strong shrinkage in one direction and a low shrinkage that softens the shrinkage in the other direction. The availability of a well-balanced shrinkable film allows a wider variety of label shapes to be applied to a wider variety of container shapes. In general, films having well-balanced shrinkage properties are preferred.

  In one embodiment, the polymer film has an ultimate shrinkage (S) of at least 10% at 90 ° C. in at least one direction as measured by ASTM procedure D1204, and in the other direction, the shrinkage is S + / Within the range of -20%. In another embodiment, the film has an ultimate shrinkage (S) of about 10% to about 50% at 70 ° C. in at least one direction, and in the other direction, the shrinkage is in the range of S +/− 20%. Is within. In one embodiment, the ultimate shrinkage (S) is at least 10% at 90 ° C., and in the other direction, the shrinkage is in the range of S +/− 20%. In one embodiment, the onset shrink temperature of the film is in the range of about 60 ° C to about 80 ° C.

  The shrink film must be sufficiently stiff to be thermally shrinkable and supplied using conventional leveling equipment and labeling processes including printing, die cutting, and label thermal transfer. I must. The required film stiffness depends on the size of the label, the application speed, and the labeling device used. In one embodiment, the shrink film has a machine direction (Md) stiffness of at least 5 mN as measured by the L & W bending resistance test. In one embodiment, the shrink film has a stiffness of at least 10 mN, or at least 20 mN. The stiffness of the shrink film is important for properly feeding the label onto the release plate at a high line speed.

  In one embodiment, the die-cut label is applied to the article or container in an automated labeling line process with a line speed of at least 30 units per minute, desirably at least 250 units per minute to at least 500 units per minute. It is contemplated that the present invention could be used with processes operating at speeds of 700-800 units or more per minute.

In one embodiment, the shrink film, when measured by ASTM D882, of about 138,000,000N / ^{m 2} ~ about 2,760,000,000N / ^{m 2} in the machine direction (MD), and about 138,000 It has a secant factor of 2% in the transverse (or crossing) direction (TD) from 2,000 N / m ² to about 2,760,000,000 N / m ² . In another embodiment, the secant modulus 2% of the film is from about 206,000,000 N / m ² to about 2,060,000,000 N / m ² in the machine direction and about 206,000,000 in the transverse direction. 000 N / m ² to about 2,060,000,000 N / m ² . The film has a lower coefficient in the transverse direction than the machine direction and the label is easily fed (MD), while TD will maintain a sufficiently low coefficient for conformability and squeezability. .

  The polymer film can be made by conventional processing. For example, the film can be produced using a biaxial stretching process, a tentering process, or may include a blown film.

  The shrink film useful for the label may be a single layer structure or a multilayer structure. The single layer or multiple layers of the shrink film can be made from a polymer selected from polyesters, polyolefins, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polylactic acid, copolymers, and mixtures thereof.

Polyolefins include olefin homopolymers or copolymers that are aliphatic hydrocarbons with one or more carbons attached to carbon double bonds. Olefins include alkenes including 1-alkenes known as alpha-olefins such as 1-butene and internal alkenes with carbon in the carbon double bond above the non-terminal carbon atom of the carbon chain such as 2-butene; A cyclic olefin having one or more carbons in the carbon double bond, such as cyclohexene and norbornadiene;
And cyclic polyenes that are acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons with two or more carbons in the carbon double bond such as 1,4-butadiene and isoprene. Polyolefins are mainly composed of alkene homopolymers from a single alkene monomer such as polypropylene homopolymer, and first listed alkenes such as propylene ethylene copolymer and propylene-ethylene-butadiene copolymer. The alkene copolymer from at least one alkene monomer and one or more added olefin monomers, the cyclic olefin homopolymer from a single cyclic olefin monomer, and the first listed cyclic olefin are the major components of the copolymer. A cyclic olefin copolymer from at least one cyclic olefin monomer and one or more added olefin monomers, and a mixture of any of the aforementioned olefin polymers.

  In one embodiment, the shrink film is a multilayer film that includes a core layer and at least one skin layer. The skin layer may be a printable skin layer. In one embodiment, the multilayer shrink film includes a core layer and two skin layers, where the multilayer shrink film can be printed with at least one skin layer. The multilayer shrink film may be a coextruded film.

  The film may have a thickness in the range of 12-500, or 12-300, or 12-200, or 25-75 microns. Differences in film layers may include differences in thermoplastic polymer components, additive components, orientation, thickness, or combinations thereof. The thickness of the core layer may be 50 to 95%, or 60 to 95%, or 70 to 90% of the thickness of the film. The thickness of the skin layer or the combination of the two skin layers may be 5-50%, or 5-40%, or 10-30% of the thickness of the film.

  The film may be further treated on one or both front and back sides to enhance performance in terms of printability or adhesion to adhesives. This treatment may include, for example, applying a surface coating such as lacquer, applying a high energy discharge to include a corona discharge on the surface, applying a flame treatment to the surface, or any combination of the foregoing treatments, included. In an embodiment of the invention, the film is treated on both sides. In another embodiment, the film is treated on one side with corona discharge and the other side is flame treated.

  The shrink film layer may contain pigments, fillers, stabilizers, photoprotective agents, or other suitable modifiers as needed. The film may also include an anti-tacking agent, a slip additive, and an antistatic agent. Useful antiblocking agents include inorganic particles such as clay, talc, calcium carbonate, and glass. Slip additives useful in the present invention include polysiloxanes, waxes, fatty amides, fatty acids, metal soaps, and particulates such as silicon dioxide, synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide, and polytetrafluoroethylene powder. Antistatic agents useful in the present invention include alkali metal sulfonates, polyether modified polydiorganosiloxanes, polyalkylphenylsiloxanes, and tertiary amines.

  In one embodiment, the shrink film is microperforated so that trapped air can be released from the interface between the label and the article to which the label is adhered. In another embodiment, the shrink film is permeable so that fluid can escape from the adhesive or from the surface of the article. In one embodiment, vents or cuts are provided in the shrink film.

  The present invention can be used to apply a wide variety of labels, films, and other components, in processing, and in other ways in conjunction with them. For example, the present invention can be used with shrink labels, pressure sensitive labels, pressure sensitive shrink labels, heat seal labels, and almost any type of label or film known in the packaging and label arts.

[Further embodiments of adhesive and label]
A description of useful pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) can be found in Non-Patent Document 2 (Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Engineering, Vol. 13, Wiley Interscience Publishing Company (New York, 1988)). A further description of useful PSA can be found in Non-Patent Document 3 (Polymer Science and Technology, Volume 1, Interscience Publishing Company (New York, 1964)). Conventional PSAs including acrylic PSA, rubber PSA, and silicone PSA are useful. The PSA may be a solvent-based adhesive or an aqueous adhesive. A hot melt adhesive may be used. In one embodiment, the PSA includes an acrylic emulsifying adhesive.

  The adhesive and the surface of the film to which the adhesive is applied have sufficient affinity to allow good adhesive fixing. In one embodiment, the adhesive is selected so that the label can be cleanly removed from the PET container within a maximum of 24 hours after application. The adhesive is also selected so that the components of the adhesive do not transfer into the film.

  In one embodiment, the adhesive can be made from an acrylic polymer. It is believed that any acrylic polymer that can form an adhesive layer with sufficient tack that adheres to the substrate can function in the present invention. In certain embodiments, the acrylic polymer for the pressure sensitive adhesive layer comprises the acrylic monomer made from the polymerization of at least one alkyl acrylate monomer comprising about 4 to about 12 carbon atoms in the alkyl group; As disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,264,532 above, it is obtained from a polymer or copolymer in an amount of about 35-95% by weight. Optionally, the acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive may be made from a single polymerized species.

  The glass transition temperature of a PSA layer containing an acrylic polymer adjusts the amount of polar regions or “rigid monomers” in the copolymer, as taught by US Pat. No. 5,264,532 above. Can be changed. The higher the weight percent of rigid monomer contained in the acrylic copolymer, the higher the glass transition temperature of the polymer. Rigid monomers considered useful for the present invention include vinyl esters, carboxylic acids, and methacrylates at concentrations by weight ranging from about 0 to about 35 weight percent polymer.

  PSA is disclosed in Patent Document 3 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,164,444) (acrylic emulsion), Patent Document 4 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,011) (acrylic emulsion made easy to adhere), and Patent It may be acrylic such as PSA taught in document 5 (US Pat. No. 6,306,982). The adhesive may also be a rubber system such as the adhesive taught in US Pat. No. 5,705,551 (Rubber Hot Melt). Adhesives were also taught in US Pat. No. 5,232,958 (UV cured acrylic) and US Pat. No. 5,232,958 (EB cured). It can also include a radiation curable mixture containing an initiator such as an adhesive and other components. These patents relate to acrylic adhesives. The disclosures of these patents are incorporated herein by reference.

  Commercially available PSA is useful in the present invention. Examples of these adhesives are described in H., St. Paul, Minnesota. B. Hot melt PSA, such as HM-1597, HL-2207-X, HL-2115-X, HL-2193-X, available from Fuller Corporation. Other useful commercially available PSAs include those available from Century Adhesive, Columbus, Ohio. Another useful acrylic PSA comprises a mixture of emulsion polymer particles comprising tackifying dispersed particles as generally described in Example 2 of US Pat. No. 6,306,982 above. The polymer is an acrylic acid as described in US Pat. No. 5,164,444, above, which results in a latex particle size with a weight average diameter of about 0.2 microns and a gel content of about 60%. Made by emulsion polymerization of 2-ethylhexyl, vinyl acetate, dioctyl maleate, and acrylic and methacrylic acid comonomers.

  A commercial example of a hot melt adhesive is H2187-01 sold by Atto Findy of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Furthermore, the rubber-based block copolymer PSA described in Patent Document 8 (US Pat. No. 3,239,478) can also be used in the adhesive structure of the present invention. This patent is hereby incorporated by reference for the disclosure of such hot melt adhesives described more fully below.

  In another embodiment, the pressure sensitive adhesive is linear, branched, represented by diblock structures A-B, triblocks A-B-A, radiating or linking structures (A-B) n, These include rubber-based elastomeric materials, including useful rubber-based elastomeric materials including bonded or radiating block copolymers, and these compounds. Where A is non-rubbery, glassy, or crystalline at room temperature, but at higher temperatures, it means a hard thermoplastic phase or block that is fluid, and B is at operating or room temperature. Means a soft block that is rubbery or elastomeric. These thermoplastic elastomers may include from about 75 to about 95 weight percent rubber-like portions and from about 5 to about 25 weight percent non-rubber-like portions.

  Non-rubber-like moieties or hard blocks are polymers of monocyclic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, more particularly vinyl substituted aromatics that may be monocyclic or bicyclic in nature. Includes hydrocarbons. Rubber-like materials such as polyisoprene, polybutadiene, and styrene butadiene rubber can be used to make rubber-like blocks or parts. Particularly useful rubber-like moieties include ethylene / butylene or ethylene / propylene copolymer polydienes and saturated olefin rubbers. The latter useful rubber can be obtained from the corresponding unsaturated polyalkylene moieties such as polybutadiene and polyisoprene by hydroprocessing.

  Vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon block copolymers and usable conjugated dienes include any of those exhibiting elastomeric properties. The block copolymer may be a diblock, triblock, multiblock, star block, polyblock, or graft block copolymer. Throughout this specification, terms relating to structural features of block copolymers, diblock, triblock, multiblock, polyblock, and graft or graft block are described in Non-Patent Document 4 (Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Engineering, Volume 2). (1985) John Wiley and Sons, New York, pp. 325-326), and Non-Patent Document 5 (Block copolymer by Jee McGrath, Science and Technology, edited by Dale Jameyer, Harwood Academy Publishers, 1979, 1) The usual meaning defined in the literature such as ˜5 pages) shall be given.

Such block copolymers can include various ratios of conjugated dienes to vinyl aromatic hydrocarbons, including vinyl aromatic hydrocarbons containing up to about 40% by weight vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon. It is therefore linear, radial symmetric, or radial asymmetric and has the formulas A--B, A--B--A, A--B--A--B, B--A--B, (AB A multi-block copolymer having a structure represented by _{0, 1, 2} ... BA or the like can be used. Where A is a vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon polymer block or a conjugated diene / vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon gradually decreasing copolymer block, and B is a conjugated diene rubbery polymer block.

  The block copolymer is obtained by continuously adding monomers, gradually adding monomers, or, for example, Patent Document 9 (US Pat. No. 3,251,905) or Patent Document 10 (US Pat. No. 3,390,207). , US Pat. No. 3,598,887, and US Pat. No. 4,219,627, which is incorporated herein by reference. It can be prepared by any of the polymerization procedures. As is well known, a declining copolymer block is formed into a multi-block copolymer by copolymerizing a mixture of conjugated dienes and vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon monomers using their copolymerization rate differences. Can be incorporated. Including Patent Document 9 (US Pat. No. 3,251,905), Patent Document 13 (US Pat. No. 3,639,521), and Patent Document 14 (US Pat. No. 4,208,356) Various patent documents describe the preparation of multi-block copolymers containing decreasing copolymer blocks.

  Conjugated dienes that can be used to prepare the polymers and copolymers are conjugated dienes containing from 4 to about 10 carbon atoms, more typically from 4 to 6 carbon atoms. Examples are from 1,3-butadiene, 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene (isoprene), 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene, chloroprene, 1,3-pentadiene, 1,3-hexadiene, etc. included. Mixtures of these conjugated dienes can also be used.

  Examples of vinyl aromatic hydrocarbons that can be used to prepare copolymers include styrene and various substituted styrenes such as o-methyl styrene, p-methyl styrene, p-tert-butyl styrene, 1,3 -Dimethylstyrene, alpha-methylstyrene, beta-methylstyrene, p-isopropylstyrene, 2,3-dimethylstyrene, o-chlorostyrene, p-chlorostyrene, o-bromostyrene, 2-chloro-4-methylstyrene, Including others.

  Many of the above copolymers of conjugated dienes and vinyl aromatic compounds are commercially available. The number average molecular weight of the block copolymer before hydrotreating is from about 20,000 to about 500,000, or from about 40,000 to about 300,000.

  The average molecular weight of the individual blocks within the copolymer varies within specified limits. In most cases, the vinyl aromatic block has a number average molecular weight on the order of about 2000 to about 125,000, or between about 4000 and 60,000. The conjugated diene block before or after hydrotreating has a number average molecular weight on the order of about 10,000 to about 450,000, or about 35,000 to 150,000.

  In addition, the vinyl content of the conjugated diene part before the hydrotreatment is generally about 10% to about 80%, or about 25% to about 65%, and the modified block copolymer has a rubber-like elasticity. If it is desired to show, it is 35% to 55%. The vinyl content of the block copolymer can be measured by nuclear magnetic resonance.

  Specific examples of diblock copolymers include butadiene styrene (SB), styrene-isoprene (SI), and their hydrogenated derivatives. Examples of triblock polymers include styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS), alpha-methylstyrene-butadiene-alpha-methylstyrene, and alpha-methylstyrene-isoprene alpha-methylstyrene. . Examples of commercially available block copolymers useful as adhesives in the present invention include those available from Kraton Polymers Limited Company under the Kraton trade name.

  Simultaneously with the hydrotreatment of the SBS copolymer containing the rubber-like portion of the mixture of 1,4 and 1,2 isomers, a styrene-ethylene-butylenestyrene (SEBS) block copolymer is obtained. Similarly, hydrotreatment of SIS polymer yields a styrene-ethylenepropylene styrene (SEPS) block copolymer.

  Selective hydroprocessing of block copolymers can be performed in a variety of well-known processes including hydroprocessing in the presence of catalysts such as Raney nickel, noble metals such as platinum, palladium, etc., and soluble transition metal catalysts. Can be executed by. A suitable hydrotreatment that can be used is a hydrogen in which a diene-containing polymer or copolymer is dissolved in an inert hydrocarbon diluent such as cyclohexane and hydrogenated by reaction with hydrogen in the presence of a soluble hydrogenation catalyst. Process. Such a procedure is described in the above-mentioned patent document 15 (US Pat. No. 3,113,986) and the above-mentioned patent document 16 (4,226,952). Such hydroprocessing of the block copolymer has from about 0.5% to about 20% residual unsaturated content in the polydiene block of the original unsaturated content of the block copolymer prior to hydroprocessing. To some extent, a selective hydrogenated copolymer is produced.

  In one embodiment, the conjugated diene portion of the block copolymer is at least 90% saturated, more often at least 95% saturated, while the vinyl aromatic portion is not significantly hydrogenated. Particularly useful hydrogenated block copolymers are the hydrogenation products of styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymers such as styrene- (ethylene / propylene) -styrene block polymers. When the polystyrene-polybutadiene-polystyrene block copolymer is hydrogenated, the ratio of polymer 1,2-polybutadiene to 1,4-polybutadiene is desirably from about 30:70 to about 70:30. When such a block copolymer is hydrogenated, the resulting product is similar to an ordered copolymer block of ethylene and 1-butene (EB). As noted above, when a conjugated diene is used as isoprene, the resulting hydrogenated product is similar to an ordered copolymer block of ethylene and propylene (EP).

  Some selective hydrogenated block copolymers are commercially available from Kraton Polymers under the generic trade name “Kraton G.”. An example is Kraton G1652, which is a hydrogenated SBS triblock containing about 30% by weight styrene endblocks and a midblock that is a copolymer of ethylene and 1-butene (EB). A low molecular weight version of G1652 is available under the name Kraton G1650. Kraton G1651 is another SEBS block copolymer containing about 33% by weight styrene. Kraton G1657 is a SEBS diblock copolymer containing about 13% by weight styrene. This styrene content is lower than the styrene content of Kraton G1650 and Kraton G1652.

  In another embodiment, the selective hydrogenated block copolymer is shown in the following formula: That is, Bn (AB) oAp, where n = 0 or 1. o is 1-100. p is 0 or 1. Each B prior to hydrotreatment is primarily a polymerized conjugated diene hydrocarbon block having a number average molecular weight of about 20,000 to about 450,000. Each A is primarily a polymerized vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon block having a number average molecular weight of about 2000 to about 115,000. The block of A constitutes about 5% to about 95% by weight of the copolymer. The unsaturation of block B is less than about 10% of the original unsaturation. In another embodiment, the unsaturation of block B is reduced to less than 5% of its original value simultaneously with the hydrotreating, and the average unsaturation of the hydrogenated block copolymer is 20% of its original value. Reduced to less than%.

  Block copolymers can also be prepared by reacting alpha, beta olefinically unsaturated monocarboxylic acid or dicarboxylic acid reagents with selective hydrogenated block copolymers of vinyl aromatic hydrocarbons and conjugated dienes as described above. Functionalized polymers such as can be obtained can be included. The reaction of the carboxylic acid reagent in the graft block copolymer can be caused in solution or by melt processing in the presence of a free radical initiator.

  The preparation of various selective hydrogenated block copolymers of conjugated dienes and vinyl aromatic hydrocarbons grafted with a carboxylic acid reagent is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,578,429, U.S. Pat. No. 4,578,429. It is described in many patent documents such as Document 18 (US Pat. No. 4,657,970) and the above-mentioned Patent Document 19 (US Pat. No. 4,795,782). The disclosures of these patents relate to grafted selective hydrogenated block copolymers of conjugated dienes and vinyl aromatic compounds, and the preparation of such compounds. U.S. Patent No. 4,795,782 describes and illustrates the preparation of grafted block copolymers by dissolution and melting processes. Patent Document 17 (US Pat. No. 4,578,429) is a kraton containing maleic anhydride containing 2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di (tert-butylperoxy) hexane by a melt reaction in a twin screw extruder. Includes examples of grafts of G1652 (SEBS) polymer.

  Examples of commercially available maleated selective hydrogenated copolymers of styrene and butadiene include Kraton FG1901X, FG1921X, and FG1924X, often referred to as maleated selective hydrogenated SEBS copolymers. FG1901X contains about 1.7% by weight of styrene and about 28% by weight of styrene as succinic anhydride. FG1921X contains about 1% by weight succinic anhydride and about 29% by weight styrene. FG1924X contains about 13% styrene and about 1% coupling functionality as succinic anhydride.

  Useful block copolymers are also available from Japan, Tokyo, Chiyoda Ward, Marunouchi 2-1, Nippon Zeon. For example, Quintac 3530 is available from Zeon Corporation and is believed to be a linear styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer.

  Unsaturated elastomeric polymers, other polymers, and copolymers that are essentially non-tacky can be tacky when mixed with an external tackifier. The tackifier is usually a hydrocarbon resin, wood resin, pine resin, pine resin derivative, or the like. When present in a concentration ranging from about 40% to about 90%, or from about 45% to about 85% by weight of the total tacky composition, the pressure sensitive adhesive properties are exhibited by the elastomeric polymer adhesive formulation. Give to things. Formulations containing less than about 40% by weight tackifying additive usually do not exhibit sufficient “rapid application” or initial tack, function as pressure sensitive adhesives and are therefore essentially non-tacky . On the other hand, formulations with too high a concentration of sticky additive generally do not work adequately for most intended uses of structures made by the emergency invention because the tack is generally too low.

Any tackifier known to those skilled in the art that is compatible with the elastomeric polymer composition is contemplated as being usable in embodiments of the present invention. One such tackifier that finds utility is Wingtack 10, a synthetic polyterpene resin, which is a liquid at room temperature and sold by Goodyear Tire and Rubber, Inc., Akron, Ohio. . Wingtack 95 is also a synthetic tackifier resin available from Goodyear, primarily comprising polymers derived from piperylene and isoprene. Other suitable tackifying additives, Escorez 1310, an aliphatic hydrocarbon resin, and Ekorettsu 2596, _C 5 ~C 9 _(aromatic modified aliphatic) is a resin, both TX, by Irving exon production Has been. Of course, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, a variety of different tackifying additives can be used to practice the present invention.

  In addition to tackifiers, other additives can be included in the PSA to provide desirable properties. For example, a plasticizer can be included. They are known to lower the glass transition temperature of adhesive compositions containing elastomeric polymers. An example of a useful plasticizer is Shelf Rex 371, a naphthenized oil available from Shell Lubricant, Texas. Antioxidants can also be included in the adhesive composition. Suitable antioxidants include Irgafos 168 and Irganox 565 available from Ciba-Geigy Corporation of Hawthorne, New York. Cutting agents such as waxes and surfactants may also be included in the adhesive.

  The pressure sensitive adhesive may be applied from a solvent, emulsion, or suspension, or as a hot melt. The adhesive can be applied to the inner surface of the shrink film by any known method. For example, the adhesive can be applied by mold coating, curtain coating, spraying, dipping, spinning, gravure or flexographic printing techniques. The adhesive can be applied to the shrink film in a continuous layer, a discontinuous layer, or a pattern. The patterned adhesive layer covers substantially the entire inner surface of the film. As used herein, “substantially covering” is taken to mean a pattern that continuously covers the film surface, a strip along the leading or trailing edge of the film, or a point on the film. It is not construed to include adhesives applied only as a weld.

  In one embodiment, the adhesive soundproofing material is applied to a portion of the adhesive layer so that the label can be more easily applied to the composite shaped article. In one embodiment, the non-adhesive material, such as ink dots or microbeads, is labeled, the adhesive layer slides over the surface of the article, and air trapped at the interface between the label and the article escapes. It is applied to at least a portion of the adhesive surface so that either or both can be done.

  A single layer of adhesive may be used, or multiple adhesive layers may be used. Depending on the article or container to which the shrink film and label to be used are attached, affix to the article or container with a first adhesive layer adjacent to the shrink film for sufficient tack, peel strength, and shear strength It is desirable to use a second adhesive layer having a different composition on the surface to be made.

  In one embodiment, the pressure sensitive adhesive has sufficient shear strength or bond strength to prevent excessive shrinkage of the label affixed to the article under the action of heat after placing the label on the article, and from the label. It has sufficient peel strength to prevent the film to peel off from the article and sufficient tack or adhesion to allow the label to be properly attached to the article during the labeling operation. In one embodiment, when heat is applied, the adhesive moves with the label as the shrink film shrinks. In another embodiment, the adhesive holds the label in place so that the label does not move as the shrink film shrinks.

  The heat-shrinkable film may include other layers in addition to the single layer or multilayer heat-shrinkable polymer film. In one embodiment, a thin metal film metallized coating is placed on the surface of the polymer film. The heat shrinkable film may also include a printed layer on the polymer film. The print layer may be disposed between the heat shrinkable layer and the adhesive layer, or the print layer may be on the outer surface of the shrink layer. In one embodiment, the film is reverse printed with the design, image, or text so that the printed surface of the skin layer is in direct contact with the container to which the film is applied. In this embodiment, the film is transparent.

  The labels of the present invention also include a polymerization shrink layer or, if present, a layer of an ink receptive composition that enhances the printability of the metal layer, thus providing print layer quality. A variety of such compositions are well known in the art, and these compositions primarily comprise a binder and a pigment such as silicon dioxide or talc dispersed in the binder. In the presence of pigment, some ink drying time is reduced. Such an ink receptive composition is described in the above-mentioned Patent Document 20 (US Pat. No. 6,153,288).

  The print layer may be an ink or graphics layer. The print layer may be a single color or multicolor print layer depending on the message to be printed and / or the intended picture design. These include variable marking data such as serial numbers, bar codes, trademarks, etc. The thickness of the print layer is generally in the range of about 0.5 to about 10 microns, in one embodiment about 1 to about 5 microns, and in another embodiment about 3 microns. . Inks used in the printing layer include commercially available water-based, solvent-borne or radiation-curable inks. Examples of these inks are Sunscene (a product of Sun Chemical, identified as an alcohol-dilutable polyamide ink), Suntex MP (Surfaced Acrylic Coated Substrate, PVDC Coated Substrate, and Solvent Solvent Developed for Polyolefin Films) Sun Chemical products identified as inks), X-cells (Water Ink Technology products identified as aqueous film inks for printing film substrates), Ubiris AR-109 Rubin Red (identified as UV inks) And CLA 91598F (a product of Sun Chemical Co., Ltd. identified as a multi-bond black solvent-based ink).

  In one embodiment, the print layer comprises all or any of polyester / vinyl ink, polyamide ink, acrylic ink, and polyester ink. One or more of the printing layers may be applied in a conventional manner, for example, gravure, flexographic or UV flexographic printing or the like, ink compositions comprising a resin of the type described above, suitable pigments or dyes, and films. It can be formed in the desired area by one or more suitable volatile solvents. After application of the ink composition, the volatile solvent component (s) of the ink composition evaporation deposit (s) leave only the non-volatile ink component to form the printed layer.

  Ink adhesion to the surface of the polymer shrink film or metal layer, if present, can be improved as needed by techniques well known to those skilled in the art. For example, as described above, an ink primer or other ink adhesion promoter may be applied to the metal layer or polymer film layer prior to ink application. Alternatively, the surface of the polymer film may be subjected to corona treatment or flame treatment in order to improve the adhesive force of the ink to the polymer film layer.

  Useful ink primers are transparent or opaque, and the primer may be solvent-borne or water-based. In one embodiment, the primer is radiation curable (such as UV). The ink primer may include lacquers and diluents. Lacquers contain one or more polyolefins, polyamides, polyesters, polyester copolymers, polyurethanes, polysulfones, polyvinylidene chloride, styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile copolymers, sodium or zinc salts or ethylene methacrylate. It can be composed of acid-based ionomers, polymethyl methacrylate, acrylic polymers and copolymers, polycarbonates, polyacrylonitrile, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, and mixtures of two or more thereof. Examples of diluents that can be used are alcohols such as ethanol, isopropanol, and butanol, esters such as ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, and butyl acetate, aromatic hydrocarbons such as toluene and xylene, ketones such as acetone and methyl ethyl ketone. , Aliphatic hydrocarbons such as heptane, and mixtures thereof. The ratio of lacquer to diluent depends on the viscosity required for the application of the ink primer. The selection of such viscosity is within the skill of one skilled in the art. The ink primer may have a thickness of about 1 to about 4 microns, or about 1.5 to about 3 microns.

  A transparent polymer protective finish, or topcoat layer, can be present on the label applied according to the present invention. The protective finish or topcoat layer imparts desirable properties to the label before and after it is attached to a substrate such as a container. With the presence of a clear finish layer over the printed layer, some embodiments can have additional properties such as antistatic properties, rigidity, and / or weather resistance. The overcoat layer can protect the printed layer from, for example, weather, sun, abrasion, moisture, water, and the like. A transparent overcoat layer can enhance the properties of the underlying print layer to achieve a more glossy and richer image. Protective transparent protective layer is also designed to have abrasion resistance, radiation resistance (such as UV), chemical resistance, heat resistance, so that labels, especially printing layers from degradation from such causes Can be protected. The protective overcoat also includes an antistatic agent or an anti-tacking agent and can be handled easily when the label is affixed to the container at high speed. The protective layer can be applied to the printed layer by techniques well known to those skilled in the art. The polymer film can be formed by depositing from a solvent, pasting as a preformed film (laminated on the printing layer), and the like.

  When a transparent finish or topcoat layer is present, it may have a single layer or a multilayer structure. The thickness of the protective layer is typically from about 12.5 to about 125 microns, and in one embodiment ranges from about 25 to about 75 microns. An example of the overcoat layer is described in Patent Document 21 (US Pat. No. 6,106,982).

  The protective layer includes polyolefins, ethylene and propylene thermoplastic polymers, polyesters, polyurethanes, polyacryls, polymethacryls, epoxies, vinyl acetate homopolymers, copolymers or terpolymers, ionomers, and mixtures thereof. be able to.

  The transparent protective layer can contain UV absorbers and / or other light stabilizers. Among the ultraviolet absorbers, hindered amine absorbers available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals under the trade name “Tinubin” are effective. Light stabilizers that can be used include hindered amine light stabilizers available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals, and trade names are Tinuvin 111, Tinuvin 123, (Bis- (1-octyloxy-2,2,6,6-tetra Methyl-4-piperidinyl) sebacate), tinuvin 622 (dimethyl succinic acid polymer with 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidineethanol), tinuvin 770 (bis- (2,2, 6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl) -sebacate), and tinuvin 783. Further light stabilizers include hindered amine light stabilizers available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals, under the trade names “Timasorb”, in particular Timasorb 119 and Timasorb 944. The concentration of the UV absorber and / or light stabilizer is up to about 2.5% by weight, and in one embodiment ranges from about 0.05% to about 1% by weight.

  The transparent protective layer may contain an antioxidant. Any antioxidant useful in making thermoplastic films can be used. These include hindered phenols and organic phosphites. Examples include those available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals, Inc., trade names: Irganox 1010, Irganox 1076, or Irgafos 168. The antioxidant concentration of the thermoplastic film composition is up to about 2.5% by weight, and in one embodiment ranges from about 0.05% to about 1% by weight.

  The release liner may be attached to the adhesive layer to protect the adhesive layer during shipping, storage, and handling prior to applying the label to the substrate. The liner allows effective handling of a large number of individual labels after the labels are die cut and the matrix is peeled from the layer of facestock material until the individual labels are fed in sequence onto the labeling line. It becomes possible. The release liner can have an embossed surface and / or a non-adhesive material such as microbeads or printed ink dots applied to the surface of the liner.

[Labeling using flexible material]
The present invention provides a unique process in which labels are selectively and concurrently heated and shrunk to affix to a target surface, preferably a composite curved surface of a container. The flexible member of the preferred embodiment is in contact with the label located between the flexible member and the target surface for receiving the label. The dome-shaped surface of the flexible member facilitates this contact between the label and the flexible member that initially occurs in the central region of the label, as long as the label and flexible member are properly aligned. The flexible member is pressed against the label that is in contact with the target surface. As described in more detail herein, in a preferred method, prior to contacting the label with the flexible member, the label partially contacts the target surface along at least the center of the label or the area of the label. Is attached. As the flexible member is pressed against the label, further contact is caused between the flexible member and the label, resulting in an increase in the contact area between the label and the target surface. The contact area between (i) the flexible member and the label, (ii) the label and the target surface increases during the labeling process, generally the central portion of the label and the dome-shaped surface of the flexible member Increasing outward from both or one of the contacting label locations. As the flexible member is further pressed against the label, a larger area of the flexible member contacts the label. As will be apparent from the detailed description herein, the flexible member is deformed into the shape of the container surface to which the label is attached. As a result, the label is affixed snugly on the container. This feature with increased contact, i.e., a method that occurs progressively outward from the central location, is considered to be a significant factor that allows defect-free labeling.

  Furthermore, according to another aspect of the invention, this approach is performed using a heated flexible member. This technique allows heating in parallel while applying the label progressively outward. For applications where the label includes a heat-shrinkable material, such as a pressure-sensitive heat-shrinkable label, the method desirably provides a correspondence between the area of the surface that receives and contacts the area of the label and the area of the label. The label is heated and contracted to some extent until immediately before being attached in contact with the curved surface. Any air trapped along the interface between the label and the target surface is pushed outward toward the label edge by gradual outward contact by the flexible member. This process continues until the outer edge of the label contacts and adheres to the target surface.

During labeling on the container, the flexible member is in contact with the label and the container. The amount of force that the flexible member exerts on the label is referred to herein as the label contact force. Usually, the amount of force depends on the properties of the label, container, and adhesive. In general, however, the label contact pressure is preferably at least about 690 N / m ₂ to about 6900 N / m ₂ . However, as will be apparent, the present invention includes the use of labeling forces greater or lesser than these amounts.

  In accordance with the present invention, the label is applied using a “from center to outward” approach. In this way, the contact between the flexible member and the label is also performed by processing from the center to the outside. The term “from center to outward” means the order or sequence in which regions or portions of the label are applied or contacted. Initially, one or more central regions of the label are contacted. Next, one or more additional regions of the label located outward from the center or central region of the label are contacted while maintaining contact. This process is such that after the label area located outward from the central area contacts and adheres, the contact is maintained and one or more additional areas of the label further outward from the aforementioned area are then transferred. Continue to be touched. This process continues until the edge area of the label is contacted and attached to the container. The use of this technique reliably or at least significantly reduces the generation of bubbles trapped under the label or between the label and the container.

  The present invention includes the adoption of a wide range of cycles. For example, in a mass production environment, the flexible member and label / container are moved and contacted against each other, the label is attached to the container, and the flexible member and label / container are then moved away from each other. The total cycle time for a given cycle is about 0.5 to about 2.0 seconds, with about 0.9 seconds being more preferred. The present invention includes cycle times that are greater or less than these values.

  One particularly preferred processing aspect that can be used is referred to herein as a “double strike” operation. For certain labeling operations, it is desirable to apply a label that extends laterally or at least partially around the container. For example, if each of the paired labels deploys or addresses a 180 ° wrap around the periphery of the container, achieving contact between the flexible member and the outer peripheral region of each label is: Often difficult. By using a double strike technique, it is greater between the first flexible member and its label on one container surface and between the second flexible member and its corresponding label on the other container surface. Contact can occur. The double stroke operation uses a specific stroke delay and / or stroke length of the opposing flexible member for a specific stroke delay and / or stroke length of one flexible member.

  Typically, in this particular approach for applying labels along opposing surfaces of a container, as described herein, a first label processing device having a flexible member is first toward the container. By gradually shifting or moving the member by the stroke distance, the label on the first surface of the container is gradually brought into contact. A second label processing device having a flexible member and generally disposed along the opposite side of the container also desirably contacts the label on the second side of the container in parallel. The second surface is generally on the opposite side of the first surface. The flexible member of the second label processing device makes progressive contact with the second label by shifting or moving the member toward the container by a second stroke distance. The first and second stroke lengths are preferably different from each other. In the case of this description, the first stroke length is longer than the second stroke length. After gradual contact from the first and second flexible members, the member retracts from contact with the container. Next, the process is repeated except that the stroke length of the second label processing device is longer than the stroke length of the first label processing device. Preferably, the stroke length of the second label processing device of this second part of the “double strike” operation is equal to the stroke length of the first label processing device of the first part of the operation.

  More particularly, in a preferred double strike operation, the first flexible member on one side of the container moves toward the container, generally transversely to the direction of the transport apparatus in which the container is placed. In parallel with the movement of the first flexible member, the second flexible member on the opposite side of the container also moves towards the container and laterally. However, the stroke or travel distance of the first flexible member is longer than the stroke or distance of the opposite second flexible member. This allows the first flexible member moving for a longer stroke to be more completely wrapped around the container and the first label. This is because the second member does not obstruct or obstruct the wrapping of the first flexible member beside the outer region of the container. Next, upon completion or full stroke of the first flexible member, both flexible members retract. Next, upon retraction, the first and second flexible members are then repositioned towards the container. However, the second flexible member extends completely against the container and the second label, while the first flexible member moves a shorter stroke. When contact between the second label and the second flexible member is completed, the first and second flexible members are retracted.

  FIG. 1 illustrates a representative container 10 having one or more regions that include a curved outer surface, particularly one or more compound curved surfaces. The container 10 defines an outer surface 12 that includes at least one compound curved region 16. The compound curved region 16 typically extends within or along a location where adjacent surfaces of the container 10 intersect or are adjacent to each other. Typically, one or more flat or substantially flat regions 14 are also included within the outer surface 12 of the container 10. Of course, the container may contain little or no flat area as in the case of a spherical container.

  FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the exemplary container 10 shown in FIG. 1 having a label 20 affixed to at least a portion of the outer surface 12 of the container 10 and the compound curved region 16. The label 20 typically defines a central region 22 of the label 20 and an outer edge 26 that extends around the outer periphery. It also defines one or more outer peripheral region (s) 24 that extend between the central region 22 and the edge 26 of the label. FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred application of the label 20 without darts or other defects on the label. FIG. 3 illustrates the undesirable results that normally occur after applying a label to the compound curved area of the container. The unfavorable stuck label shown in FIG. 3 is shown as 20 '. The label 20 ′ is generally characterized by one or more defects such as darts, wrinkles, etc. and is collectively shown as 21. The dart 21 usually occurs in the area of the label lying on the composite curved area 16 of the container 10. The dart 21 and / or other defects are typically present in the outer region (s) 24 of the label 20. Of course, the container 10 and the affixed label 20 as shown in FIG. 2 are desirable. The state of the label 20 'including defects such as the multiple darts 21 shown in FIG. 3 is undesirable.

  4-6 schematically illustrate a preferred embodiment flexible member 30 according to the present invention. The flexible member 30 preferably includes a base 32, a dome-shaped region 36, and one or more sidewalls 34 that extend between the base 32 and the dome-shaped region 36. Member 30 defines an outer surface 46 and an inner surface 48. Inner surface 48 defines an inner hollow region within flexible member 30. The inner hollow region is accessible from the rear of the flexible member and is described in more detail herein. The flexible member 30 can be described in terms of various areas. The dome-shaped region 36 desirably exhibits an outwardly raised or convex profile and is the furthest distal location 40, ie, the flexible member 30 furthest from the base 32 or the plane in which the base 32 extends. Defines a position along the outer surface 46 of the. The distal most location 40 is a central region 38 defined along the dome-shaped region 36, preferably in the middle or within the dome-shaped region 36. Extending between the central region 38 of the dome region 36 and the sidewall 34 is one or more outer region (s) 42 of the dome region 36. Of course, the present invention includes a wide variety of flexible members having a variety of shapes and configurations. In preferred embodiments, many of the flexible members employ rounded or arcuate edges and corners.

  7-10 illustrate a preferred assembly of the aforementioned flexible member 30 held, supported, and mounted by the frame 50 and housing 90. FIG. FIG. 7 illustrates an assembly that is only partially assembled to demonstrate a vent plate 80 disposed behind the substantially flexible member 30. As shown schematically in FIG. 7, the frame 50 includes a first surface 52 that is directed rearward, a second surface 54 that is directed to the opposite side, ie, forward, and the frame 50. An outer edge 56 and an inner edge 58 are defined that extend around the outer circumference and between surfaces 52 and 54. The inner edge 58 preferably defines an opening 60 that is sized to receive the flexible member 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 60 are rectangular with round or arcuate corners. This shape corresponds to the shape of the side wall 34 of the flexible member 30. As is apparent, the present invention includes almost any shape for the opening 60. Preferably, the frame 50 is flat or relatively flat. The flexible member 30 is inserted through the opening 60 defined by the frame 50. Preferably, the base 32 (not shown in FIG. 7) of the flexible member 30 contacts the first surface 52 of the frame 50 and is located directly adjacent. And the side wall 34 and dome-shaped region 36 of the flexible member 30 extend outwardly through the opening 60 and beyond the second surface 54 of the frame 50.

  FIG. 7 also shows one or more guides 62 that are preferably provided with the frame 50. One or more guides 62 are preferably attached to or formed with the frame 50 and preferably project from the second surface 54 of the frame 50. The guide 62 generally defines a distal end 64, an inner wall 66 (see FIG. 8), and an outer wall 68 facing in the opposite direction. For certain applications, the guide 62 is preferably positioned proximate the opening 60 defined in the frame 50. The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 7-8 employs, for example, two guides 62 disposed along opposite sides of the opening 60 defined in the frame 50. However, it will be appreciated that in many other applications, the guides may be located elsewhere. For example, the guide may be arranged to deform the flexible member into a shape other than the inherent shape of the flexible member or a predetermined shape. The guides 62 are preferably oriented parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the semi-rectangular opening 60. FIG. 7 also illustrates that the guide 62 extends equidistant from the second surface 54 of the frame 50 and about 10% to about 100% of the distance that the flexible member 30 extends from the second surface 54. Indicates that it may be. For many applications, preferably the guide 62 is measured at a distance measured from the second surface 54 of the frame, ie, between the second surface 54 and the distal-most location 40 of the flexible member 30. It extends for a distance of about 25% to about 75% of the distance.

  With further reference to FIGS. The assembly also includes a housing 90. Preferably, the housing 90 is a structure such as a housing for mounting and holding various components. The housing 90 typically includes one or more walls 92 and a rear wall 94. The wall 92 can include a top wall, a bottom wall, and opposing side walls. One or more conduits 96 and mounting equipment 98 may be preferably provided along the rear of the housing. These aspects are described in more detail in conjunction with FIGS.

  As mentioned above, FIG. 7 also illustrates the vent plate 80 used in the preferred assembly. The vent plate 80 defines one or more vent passages 82 as shown in FIG. 8 that extend through the plate 80 to allow fluids such as air to enter and exit the inner hollow region of the flexible member 30. . As shown in FIG. 7, the ventilation plate 80 is preferably disposed between the frame 50 and the housing 90.

  FIG. 8 shows the assembly of FIG. 7 fully assembled with the flexible member 30 shown in broken lines, thereby revealing the inside of the flexible member 30. As described above, it is preferable to provide the heat source inside the flexible member 30. Accordingly, the assembly 100 includes a heater 100 that is preferably disposed within the inner hollow region of the flexible member 30. As mentioned above, the heater can take many different forms. In the case of this embodiment, the heater 100 is an electric resistance heater such as a 480 volt 600 watt heater. It is desirable to provide a protective shield such as reflector 102. The reflector 102 desirably extends between the heater 100 and the side wall 34 (not shown) of the flexible member 30. The reflector 102 may include a reflective surface to reflect radiant heat energy from the heater 100 away from the adjacent sidewall 34 of the flexible member 30. One or more temperature sensors 104 can be placed inside the flexible member 30 to obtain information regarding heating and temperature conditions. FIG. 8 also illustrates a portion of the vent plate 80 and an air passage 82 defined within the vent plate 80.

  FIG. 8 also illustrates one or more optional openings 91 that may be provided in a part such as the housing 90, the guide 62, or both. You may provide the opening part 91 which can circulate air to the one or more external area | regions along the outer surface of the flexible member 30 from the inner side of the housing | casing 90. FIG. The optional opening 91 can serve to facilitate heating of the outer surface of the flexible member by relatively hot air that exits the housing 90 toward the flexible member 30 or at least beside it. .

  FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate further components and equipment of a preferred assembly of flexible member 30, frame 50, and housing 90. One or more conduits 96 desirably extend from the rear wall 94 of the housing 90 and serve to guide a fluid, such as air, inside the flexible member 30. Air is normally pressurized and directed to an inlet 95 defined by a conduit 96. Air flowing through the conduit 96 enters the inner hollow region of the flexible member 30 through the air passage 82.

  A preheater 110 may be provided that is in flow communication with the conduit 96, such as in-line. The heater 110 serves to heat a fluid such as air entering the conduit 96 to reduce the heating load placed on the heater 100 disposed within the flexible member 30. As will be apparent, the preheater 110 may include a portion that is integral with the conduit or a portion of the conduit. Although a wide variety of heaters and techniques can be used for the preheater 110, a preferred heater is an electrical resistance heating such as a 170 volt, 1,600 watt heater available from Sylvania, Exeter, NH. It is a vessel.

  With further reference to FIGS. It is also desirable to have one or more mounting facilities 98 on the housing, such as along the rear wall 94 of the housing 90. The mounting facility 98 allows simple and reliable fixing of the housing 90 including the flexible member 30 to one or more support members.

  10 is a cross-sectional view of flexible member 30, frame 50, housing 90, and conduit 96 taken along line AA in FIG. FIG. 10 illustrates a preferred configuration of the heaters 100 and 110 and the conduit 96 for managing the flow of air into and out of the hollow interior of the flexible member 30 through one or more air passages 82. Of course, a single air passage 82 may be used to provide communication between the interior of the flexible member 30 and the conduit 96. In this manner, air entering the flexible member 30 travels through the conduit 96 and through the air passage 82. The present invention also allows air to enter the flexible member 30 through the conduit 96 and the vent passage 82 and to include one or more additional vent passages (FIG. 10) provided in the vent plate 80 and / or the housing 90. Includes an airflow structure that exits the flexible member through (not clearly differentiated).

  FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate another preferred embodiment frame 150. FIG. 11 shows the frame 150 assembled in conjunction with the flexible member 30, and FIG. 12 illustrates the frame 150 itself. Frame 150 defines a first surface 152, a second opposing surface 154, an outer edge 156, and an inner edge 158. Inner edge 158 defines an opening 160 that is dimensioned to engage and receive flexible member 30. Frame 150 includes two guides 162 extending from second surface 154 of frame 150. Each guide 162 defines a distal end 164, an inner wall 166, and an opposing outer wall 168. A second guide 170 or winged member is desirably disposed along the distal region of each guide 162. The second guides 170 preferably extend with a slight inclination with respect to the corresponding guides 162. Each second guide 170 defines an inner edge 172 and an opposite outer edge 174. Each second guide 170 is preferably fixed so that the position of the second guide 170 can be selectively changed removably to the corresponding guide 162. Each second guide 170 is preferably selectively positionable with respect to the corresponding guide 162 by use of an adjustable attachment assembly 176. The attachment assembly 176 provides a secure attachment of the second guide 170 to the distal portion of the corresponding guide 162 and most preferably allows the relative position of the second guide 170 to be changed. As illustrated, a threaded fixture that extends through the slot of the second guide can be used. The second guide 170 serves to provide a physical restriction for deformation of the more flexible member 30. FIG. 11 illustrates the flexible member 30 in a deformed state. The side wall 34 of the member 30 is in contact with the inner edge 172 of the second guide 170 to limit further outward deformation by the side wall 34 of the flexible member 30.

  FIGS. 13-18 schematically illustrate the application of a label to a container, particularly a container having one or more composite curved region (s) 16 using a flexible member 30 according to the present invention. . Please refer to FIG. 13 and FIG. There is a container 10 previously described in conjunction with FIGS. There is a label 120 that defines a central region 122, an outer edge 126, and an outer peripheral region 124 that extends between the central region 122 and the edge 126. Needless to say, the thickness of the label 120 is exaggerated to facilitate the display of the label. Label 120 also defines an outer surface 128 and an inner surface 130. An effective amount of pressure sensitive adhesive preferably extends across the inside surface 130 of the label 120. The label 120 includes a heat shrinkable material, preferably one that exhibits the balanced shrinkage properties described herein.

  Preferably, the label 120 is first contacted and held along the region of the container 10. Preferably, the inner surface 130 of the label in the central region 122 of the label is in contact with the flat region 14 of the container 10. Other areas of the label 120, such as the outer peripheral area 124 lying on the compound curved area 16 of the container 10, are not in contact with the container. The inner surface 130 of the label 120 desirably includes a pressure sensitive adhesive so that simultaneously with the contact, the label 120 is held in contact with the container 10. Of course, the present invention includes a wide variety of labeling techniques, labels, containers, and label materials. As noted above, the present invention can be used to apply films and labels on other surface structures as well as surface structures containing complex curves. For example, the present invention could be used to apply a label on a container surface that is only a simple curve or a plane containing a combination of these shapes.

  FIGS. 15-19 illustrate the process of bringing the label 120 into progressive contact with the container 10. After initial contact between the label 120 and the container 10, the flexible member 30, particularly the dome-shaped region 36 of the flexible member, is in contact with the outer surface 128 of the label 120. This is shown in FIG. Needless to say, this contact includes (i) moving the flexible member 30 toward the stationary container 10 and the label 120, and (ii) moving the container 10 and label 120 toward the stationary flexible member 30. Or (iii) moving the container 10 and the label 120 and the flexible member 30 until they contact each other. Contact between the flexible member 30 and the label 120 preferably occurs first in the central region 38 and most preferably the distal most defined along the dome-shaped region 36 of the flexible member 30. Occurs within or including location 40. With respect to the label 120, contact with the flexible member 30 preferably occurs first in the central region 122 of the label 120.

The flexible member 30 is pressed against the container 10 and the label 120 as shown in FIGS. Due to the flexible nature of the member 30, the member 30 will begin to deform and continue to deform so that the flexible member accepts the contour and / or shape of the container 120. The flexible member 30 is pressed against the container 10 and the label 120 by applying a force such as a load (or the container and the label are pressed against the flexible member). As described above, the amount of load, the pressure applied to the label, preferably, to be about 690N / _{m 2} ~ about 6900N / _{m 2.} The gradual contact between the flexible member 30 and the container 10 and label 120 can be seen in the sequence of FIGS. After contact to the extent of FIG. 19, both or one of the containers 10 to which the flexible member 30 and the label 120 are completely attached are separated from each other. As a result, the label is affixed exactly on the container.

  Through the entire process shown in the sequence of FIGS. 14-19, the flexible member 30 is desirably heated. As previously described, the heating is preferably preferentially heated in the outer region 42 (see FIG. 4) of the dome-shaped region 36 of the flexible member compared to the central region 38 of the dome-shaped region 36. As it happens. This practice facilitates heating only the outer peripheral region 124 of the label 120. In general, the area of the label that contacts the composite curved surface of the container is the outer peripheral label area 124. In accordance with the present invention, factors such as the amount of heat, heating rate, increased rate of contact between the flexible member and the container / label, and labeling force are controlled as follows. That is, the outer peripheral area of the label is appropriately heated and contracted so that the label does not have defects such as darts and wrinkles when contacting the complex curved container surface. Upon contact between the label and the container, the adhesive bond prevents subsequent movement of the portion of the label that is in contact with the container.

  FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating contact between the flexible member 30 and the container 10, and shows a typical degree of deformation of the flexible member 30. In this explanatory view, since the container 10 is transparent, the label 120 attached to the container is clarified. The functions of the guide 162 and the second guide 170 are clearly shown. For example, the outward lateral deformation of the flexible member 30 in the direction of arrow B is prevented by the presence of the guide 162 and the second guide 170. Contact occurs between the region of the side wall 34 of the flexible member 30 and the guides 162 and 170.

FIG. 21 illustrates a plurality of flexible member assemblies 200. Each flexible member is supported and housed within a corresponding frame and housing as previously described generically as labeling machine 210. Specifically, the assembly 200 includes a first set 220 of labeling machines 210 and a second set 230 of labeling machines 210. The two sets 220 and 230 are desirably aligned opposite each other and separated by a product transport system, such as a transport device 240. The assembly 200 is shown as a configuration for applying labels to both sides (not shown) of the containers, in particular, to six containers simultaneously. According to this aspect of the present invention, a plurality of containers (not shown) spaced evenly from one another are placed on the moving transport device 240. The transport device 240 moves the container in the direction of arrow C. Each set 220, 230 of the label applicator 210 can be selectively placed in directions X and Y as shown in FIG. The movement (ie, direction and speed) of each set 220, 230 is adjusted to match a set of six adjacent containers that are moving on the transport device 240. A typical period is as follows. Set 220 and 230, respectively, retracted by moving in the direction of _{X 1} and _{Y 1.} Set the target container (6) is, desirably, as shown in Figure 13, as by placing the partial contact label moves past the set 220, 230, then this set is the X ₂ Move in the direction. Speed in the direction of _{X 2} of each set 220, 230 is consistent with the speed of the target container is moving on the conveying device 240. Simultaneously with movement in the X ₂ direction, each set 220, 230 towards the target container on the conveying device 240 moves in the direction of the _{Y 2.} As contact occurs between each flexible member 30 and the corresponding label, the movement of each set 220, 230 continues. Each label is affixed to its corresponding container as previously described in conjunction with FIGS. As the label is stuck, collection and six target containers set 220, 230, moves in the direction of arrow C and _{X 2.} After labeling, each set 220, 230 retracted by moving in the direction of arrow _{Y 1.} It sets 220 and 230, when retracted in the _{Y 1} direction, the beam is moving to a still _{X 2} direction. Head, until fully retracted in Y ₁ direction, the beam is moved in the X ₁ direction for the preparation of the target vessel became the next set does not start.

  Movement of the sets 220, 230 can be performed by a variety of different techniques and assemblies. In one method, each of the sets is placed on a movable sliding assembly that can be selectively placed on a linear track by one or more electric servo motors. It is also contemplated that one or more cam assemblies could be used to give each set 220, 230 a desired movement.

  The above description was made on labeling on six containers at the same time. As will be apparent, the present invention has been designated as “n” herein, but can be adjusted to allow labels to be applied to virtually any number of containers simultaneously. Preferably n is usually in the range of about 1 to about 20, more desirably about 4 to about 10. Needless to say, the present invention is by no means limited to these configurations. Rather, the present invention can be used to apply labels to a set of more than 20 containers simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. Further, the assembly shown in FIG. 21 is for labeling on two opposing surfaces of a container, but the present invention applies only one label per container, or three or more labels per container simultaneously. Includes configuration.

  FIG. 22 is a top view of a preheating stage 300 that can be used in combination with the assembly 200 shown in FIG. Refer to FIG. A transport device 240 transporting a plurality of containers 310 is shown. Each container 310 has a label on each of the two main surfaces. Each label is in partial contact and adheres to the corresponding container surface in the manner shown in FIG. The collection of containers 310 includes a first heater 320 for heating the label on the first side of the container 310 and a second heater 330 for heating the label on the second side of the container 310. It is transported by a set of heaters. As noted above, a wide variety of heater types, heat outputs, and configurations can be used. However, the heaters 320 and 330 are preferably of the infrared heater type. The label exiting this preheat stage generally exhibits a temperature of about 38 ° C. However, as will be appreciated, the particular temperature at which the label is heated depends on a number of factors, such as, for example, the operating temperature of the thermal contraction of the label.

  Refer to FIG. The container 310 and label exiting the preheat stage 300 of FIG. 22 enter the assembly 200 as previously described in conjunction with FIG. The container with the fully affixed label is referred to as container 310 ′. Of course, while being transported through the assembly 200, the container and its corresponding label follow the operations shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 24 schematically illustrates a front view of a preferred embodiment flexible member 430 that includes a base 432, a dome-shaped region 436, and one or more sidewalls 434. As shown, the flexible member 430 has a rectangular shape with substantially rounded corners or edges when viewed along its front surface. Base 432 extends substantially around the outer periphery of member 430. The member 430 is substantially symmetric with respect to the longitudinal (and vertical) axis indicated by the axis Y. Member 430 is also substantially symmetrical with respect to the width (and horizontal) axis indicated as X.

  FIG. 25 schematically illustrates a front view of another preferred embodiment flexible member 530 that includes a base 532, a dome-shaped region 536, and one or more sidewalls 534 extending therebetween. Domed region 536 includes lower corner regions 536a and 536b extending outward. In this embodiment, the flexible member 530 is characterized in that it is symmetric only with respect to the axis and one axis Y in the longitudinal direction. The shape of the flexible member 530 is different with respect to the axis X and is asymmetric. As described above, the flexible member shape and / or profile depends on the label shape and / or container shape or profile. The flexible member 530 shown in FIG. 25 has a lower corner region 536a and 536b extending outwardly from the flexible member 430 of FIG. 24 to the lower edge and lower corner region of the label. More complete contact. Again, it is clear that the present invention includes a wide variety of shapes and structures as flexible members. The specific shape and structure of the flexible member is mainly defined by the nature of the label and container. Thus, it will be appreciated that the present invention is in no way limited to the specific flexible members described herein, such as members 430 and 530.

  FIG. 26 illustrates a pair of guides 662. The guides 662 can be adjustably and selectively engaged or positioned with a support member, such as a frame, using threaded members 685 that extend through openings 687 defined in each guide 662. Each guide includes an upper region 664, a lower region 666, and an inner side surface 665 extending therebetween. As shown in FIG. 26, the container 10 is arranged between a pair of guides 662 arranged at intervals. The container 10 has a curved side surface or side region, as shown in FIG. Each guide 662 is desirably formed or contoured to conform, follow, or generally correspond to the lateral area of the container 10. Thus, the inner side 665 of each guide 662 desirably extends beside the container 10 and is spaced relatively close thereto.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 26, the container 10 defines an outwardly projecting or convex lateral region 10a, and the guide inner side surface 665 has a corresponding concave guide inner side region recessed inwardly. 665a is defined. Further, the container 10 further defines an inwardly recessed concave lateral region 10b and the guide inner side surface 665 defines an outwardly projecting or convex corresponding guide inner side region 665b. In many applications, it is particularly desirable that the structure of the inner side corresponds closely and generally follows the contour of the target container. Thus, the spacing between the inner side of the guide and the container is relatively uniform and constant from the upper guide region to the lower guide region when positioned in their proper relationship. This is in contrast to the particular configuration shown in FIG. 26, where a relatively large spacing is provided between the container and the guide inner side, closest to the lower guide region, and closer to the upper guide region. Is.

  FIG. 27 further illustrates a perspective view of the “rapid change” system 700 of the preferred embodiment. The rapid change system includes a flexible member 730, a guide 762, and a frame assembly 750. The guide 762 can be adjustably and selectively positioned relative to the frame 750 and desirably can be positioned vertically using one or more rail members 752. System 700 includes a wide variety of facilities for releasably engaging system 700 with a larger frame or support, or as described above, with a walking beam device (not shown). An example of such a removable engagement facility includes a clamping member as shown as 710. Other fastening means such as threaded fasteners may be used.

  28 and 29 illustrate a plurality of quick change systems 700 collectively referred to as a labeling group 800. FIG. 28 is a perspective view, and FIG. 29 is a front elevation view of the labeling group 800. Each system 700 is as described above with reference to FIG. Each system 700 can selectively engage a frame portion 780. Each frame portion 780 includes equipment for directing hot air to the flexible member 730, such as an air inlet 740 with an in-line electric heater 743, and an air outlet 744. Still referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the frame 750 has an intake opening 741 and an exhaust opening 742 defined therein. As described above with respect to heater 110 in FIG. 10, heater 743 may include an internal flow region or conduit section. In this way, the heated airflow passing through the heater 743 through the air inlet 740 enters the flexible member 730 through the opening 741. The hot air circulates within the flexible member 730 and is desirably further dispersed by an air manifold or diffuser (not shown) and exits the outlet 744 through the opening 742. A heater 790 is disposed within each flexible member 730. To selectively and removably remove the flexible member 730, its guide 762, and its frame 750 from the other frame 780, a fixation assembly such as a clamp member 710 can be used.

  FIG. 30 illustrates five different quick change systems, designated 700a, 700b, 700c, 700d, and 700e. Each system uses different sized flexible members shown as 730a, 730b, 730c, 730d, and 730e. Each system may include one or more guides, such as 762c and 762e, or no such guides. Further, each system may include different sizes, shapes, and structures of heaters 790a, 790b, 790c, 790d, and 790e disposed within the flexible member. A removable engagement facility 710, such as a clamp, is provided for each system 700a-700e. FIG. 30 also represents a preferred arrangement of air openings 741 and 742 for the flexible members 730a-730e. Regardless of the size of the flexible members 730a-730e, when the frame 750 is engaged with the frame 780 (see FIG. 28), the air openings 741 and 742 are aligned with the inlet 740 and the outlet 744. This configuration further facilitates quick and easy removal and installation of one system 700 to the other, such as replacing system 700e with system 700a or vice versa. Needless to say, this allows a convenient exchange of one flexible member with the other. In this way, a flexible member having a particular structure specified for the label and / or container format can be easily changed when another container and / or label is used. FIG. 30 also illustrates an exemplary air manifold 737 having a hollow interior and defining a plurality of openings 738 extending into the sidewalls of the manifold. As can be appreciated, the air manifold 737 can be used in almost any pattern or arrangement of openings 738 and is in no way limited to the particular embodiment shown in FIG.

  The present invention also provides various label processing systems for contacting the label with the container. These systems include a label processing device that heats the label and simultaneously contacts the container. The label processing apparatus is desirably as described herein. The label processing system also includes one or more labels for heating by the processing device to contact the container.

[Attaching labels using sliding members]
In general, the present invention provides various techniques and assemblies for selectively applying one or more regions of a label or label assembly to a container. Specifically, the techniques and assemblies are used to control the area of the label that contacts the container. By selectively controlling the shape and size or characteristics of the label “flag” during the labeling operation, wider and overall control of the labeling process can be achieved. Techniques and assemblies such as those described herein have particular importance for labeling operations using heat shrinkable labels and pressure sensitive adhesives.

  A multi-stage method is used for a specific labeling operation such as labeling on a complex curved surface. In particular, this multi-step technique is useful for applying a heat-shrinkable label using a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The label or label assembly is first applied to a receiving surface, such as a container, by contacting only a portion of the label with the desired area of the container. A bare adhesive, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive along the back of the label, contacts the container and holds the label against the container that is generally moving on the transport device. The resulting area of the label that is not in contact with the container is sometimes referred to in the industry as a “flag” or “wing”.

  The label is then applied in full contact with the container by a variety of different techniques, depending largely on the shape of the container and the properties of the label and adhesive. In the case of heat-shrinkable labels using pressure sensitive adhesive, the remaining non-contact portion of the label, or “flag”, is preferably contacted with the container using a deformable heated member. In order to achieve the desired degree of shrinkage in that part (s) of the label, the heating of the label or part (s) of the label to the desired temperature is cautious by the movement and temperature of the heated member. To be controlled. Heating is carefully controlled against the occurrence of contact between the label and the container, resulting in the goal of reducing or ideally preventing the occurrence of defects such as wrinkles, darts, and edge lift on the applied label. Will head.

  The present invention provides a system and method for applying a label partially or completely to a moving container in a defect-free manner. The label is first placed in contact with the moving container. In one version of the invention, the label is further affixed to the container, but not fully affixed, leaving one or more label flags. By one or more subsequent actions, such as the use of a heated flexible sliding member, the label is fully applied to the container and the label flag is applied to the corresponding area of the container. In another version of the invention, the label is completely affixed to the container. In this version, after the first contact, the flag that occurs between the label and the container is in full contact with the container.

  FIG. 31 illustrates an exemplary container 810 having a container outer surface 812 to which a label 820 is applied in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, the label is initially only partially contacted with the container or receiving surface such that one or more desired label portions remain in contact with the container. FIG. 31 illustrates a state in which the label 820 is partially in contact with the container 810 and partially attached to the container.

  The area of initial contact between label 820 and container 810 is shown as area 830 in FIGS. The remaining label areas not in contact with the container are the flags 832a and 832b. As noted above, the term “flag” as used herein refers to an uncontacted portion of a label that typically includes one or more edge regions. Two separate flag portions 832a and 832b are illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 32, but it will be appreciated that more than two flags or one flag is associated with the label and its initial application to the container. Sometimes. The front surface of label 820 is typically referred to as front surface 824. The rear surface of label 820 is referred to as rear surface 822. An effective amount of an adhesive 828, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive, is generally disposed along the rear surface 822 of the label 820.

  Specifically, the present invention is directed to a multi-stage labeling operation in which a pressure sensitive label is first partially contacted at a desired location along the outer surface of the container. The label follows a sliding motion simultaneously and gradually so that additional areas of the label come into contact with and affix to the container. Preferably, the sliding motion is terminated before the entire label contacts the container. Most preferably, the sliding is only performed until at least one or more flags are present. At this point, the sliding motion is complete and the container with the now partially affixed label is directed to another processing step, such as contact from a heated flexible member. However, as mentioned above, the present invention includes a labeling operation in which the label, and preferably the pressure sensitive label, is applied to the container in complete contact with the container such that the label is affixed to the label.

  Although not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, this multi-step labeling operation is particularly suitable for applying heat-shrinkable pressure sensitive labels to curved container surfaces, particularly containers that exhibit complex curved surfaces. I know that. Typically, such containers are somewhat flat or slightly curved inwardly along the lateral region to form a compound curved shoulder or side that meets a corresponding surface on another side of the container. An arcuate and convex front or rear region is shown. Attempting to apply labels, particularly heat-shrinkable pressure sensitive labels, in a defect-free manner onto typical sharply curved composite curved areas is very difficult. Surprisingly, the use of the present invention allows a further area of the label to contact the container by first contacting the selected area of the label with a portion of the container and then selectively sliding the label. By attaching the label, the label can be easily attached. Preferably, the sliding is performed to such an extent that at least one label area that does not contact the container remains. The label portion that is not in contact with the container is the label flag. Preferably, a flag formed corresponding to an area of the container exhibiting a compound curvature thus lies on the area. The flag is subsequently applied to the compound curved container surface by one or more subsequent operations, such as, for example, the heated flexible member. In certain applications, it can be said that the label can be applied completely so that no label flag remains. For these applications, it may not be necessary to apply the labeled container to a heated flexible member.

  FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment sliding assembly 840 according to the present invention. The various sliding assemblies described herein apply labels selectively to (i) all or part of the contacted label area, such as area 830 of FIGS. 31 and 32, and (ii) ) Controllably sliding, i.e., progressively contacting, one or more regions of the label including all or part of a flag region, such as one or both of regions 832a and 832b of FIGS. Used for. The sliding assembly 840 of the preferred embodiment is used to initially apply a label from a label dispenser (not shown in FIG. 33) and then “slid” to progressively apply the label to the container. Further used. The sliding assembly 840 includes a frame 850, a sliding member 860, a cam 880, and a cam follower 870. Each of these parts is described in more detail herein.

  The frame 850 typically includes one or more members for supporting and positioning the sliding member 860. Preferably, the frame 850 includes one or more support members, such as an upper frame member 852, a lower frame member 854, and a vertical support member 856 extending therebetween. The material used for the frame may be almost any material that exhibits suitable strength and rigidity. Non-limiting examples of frame materials include materials such as steel, aluminum, and relatively hard plastics. Attached parts such as one or more mounts 858 can be used to attach or attach the sliding member 860 to the frame 850. As shown in FIG. 33, the frame 850 is mounted so as to be able to turn around a turning shaft 842 so that it can turn around a fixing tool (not shown) such as a support portion. Preferably, the frame 850 and the sliding member 860 attached thereto can pivot about the shaft 842 in the direction of arrow B. The manner in which the pivoting motion of the frame is achieved is described in more detail herein.

  The sliding member 860 is illustrated by being separated in FIG. Although the present invention includes various shapes and structures for the sliding member 860, the member 860 desirably has a relatively planar shape that defines a front face 861 and an opposing rear face 863. The sliding member 860 also desirably includes one or more blades 862 that extend laterally outward from the edge or side regions. The blade 862 is desirably flexible and deformable, so the material selected for the blade is selected accordingly. Representative examples of materials for blade 862 include, but are not limited to, silicone, rubber, flexible plastic, and various composite materials. The sliding member 860 also preferably includes a sliding element 864 disposed along the distal end of the blade 862 or along its region. During use of the sliding assembly 840, the sliding element 864 contacts the label along one or more contacting areas 866 of the sliding element 864. The material (s) selected for use as the sliding element 864 depends on the label characteristics and the smoothness of the sliding element 864 and the slope for the element to move from end to end of the label. . Non-limiting examples of materials that may be suitable for the sliding element 864 include, but are not limited to, cotton woven and non-woven fiber products, polymeric materials, molded elastomeric materials, and the like. . Depending on the label material and any printing or overcoat layer properties, it may also be desirable to use one or more lubricants or friction reducers along the sliding element. Again, it is clear that the present invention includes a wide variety of shapes, structures, and materials for the sliding member 860. For the particular preferred sliding assembly 840 described herein, it is desirable that the sliding element 864 extend or be substantially the same over the entire length of the blade 862. Desirably, the blade 862 extends or is substantially continuous over the entire length of the sliding member 860.

  The preferred embodiment sliding assembly 840 also includes a cam follower 870. Cam follower member 870 is engaged, preferably attached, to frame 850 such that movement of member 870 is imparted to frame 850. As shown in FIG. 33, the cam follower 870 can be attached to the upper frame member 852 of the frame 850 by one or more fasteners such as bolts. Other attachment means may be used, such as welding, gluing, or integrally forming the cam follower member 870 with one or more members of the frame 850. The preferred structure shown in FIG. 33 is described in more detail herein. It can be said that the cam follower 870 has various shapes and structures. Preferably, member 870 defines a proximal end 876 to which member 870 is attached to frame 850 and an opposite distal end 874. The distal end 874 preferably defines a cam driven surface 872 that is directed toward the cam member 880. In the preferred construction of member 870, cam driven surface 872 is provided along the laterally guided side surface of member 870 or its edge region, particularly along distal end 874 or a portion thereof. The cam follower 870 can be formed from virtually any material, such as, for example, metals including steel and aluminum, or plastics such as low surface energy materials such as lexans and polyethylene.

  Certain embodiments of the sliding assembly 840 may also include a cam member 880. Cam member 880 is positioned in functional engagement with cam follower 870 such that movement of member 880 induces a predetermined periodic movement and preferably reciprocation of moving member 870. In the typical structure shown in FIG. 33, the cam member 880 moves linearly in the direction of arrow A. The linear movement induces a reciprocating pivoting motion in the direction of arrow B of frame 850 and sliding member 860, specifically around pivot axis 842, by operable engagement with cam follower member 870. . Preferably, cam member 880 defines a cam surface 882 that is directed toward cam follower member 870, particularly toward cam follower surface 872. As is apparent, a portion of the cam driven surface 872 is in contact with a portion of the cam surface 882 during and during engagement between the cam member 880 and the cam driven member 870. Although the present invention includes a wide variety of structures and devices, desirably the cam member 880 and cam follower 870 are positioned such that linear displacement of the cam member 880 results in a reciprocating pivoting motion of the cam follower 870.

FIG. 35 illustrates an exemplary positioning and orientation of a container 810 that carries a partially contacting label 820. The label is first contacted with the container upstream and preferably immediately enters the upstream of the sliding assembly 840. In a particularly preferred process described herein in more detail, label 820 is first contacted with container 810 by sliding assembly 840. Once contacted with the label, the container continues to carry the partially applied label toward the sliding assembly 840, where the label is further contacted with the container and applied to the container. . In general, the container 810 is disposed on a transport device 890 that moves past the sliding assembly 840. A wide variety of transfer devices can be used with the various sliding assemblies of the present invention. Usually, the transport device preferably transports the containers arranged on the transport device so that the containers are arranged equidistant from each other and are uniformly aligned with each other. The containers are preferably arranged in a single row on the transport device. Of course, the present invention includes alternative container arrangements. With regard to the structure of the conveying device, it is usual to use a linear conveying device, in particular a conveying device that has a conveying device portion that is straight and transports the container in a straight direction past the sliding member, in particular the sliding member. Is desirable. It is also desirable that the transport device transport the container continuously so that the container moves continuously, most preferably it causes the container to move continuously as it moves past the sliding member. It is. The movement of the transport device 890 is preferably synchronized with the movement of the cam member 880 (not shown) so that as the container 810 moves toward the sliding assembly 840, the cam follower 870 initially moves the container 810. Is moved farther away and then moved toward the container 810. Specifically, as the transport device 890 and the container 810 disposed thereon are moved by a _first incremental amount C1, the cam follower 870, the frame 850, and the sliding member 860 are It is desirable to pivot about the axis 842 (shown in FIG. 33) in the direction of arrow D away from the container 810. When a sufficient linear movement of the conveying device, such as a first completion of gradual quantities C _1, the transport device 890 for further linear movement, such as a second progressive amounts C ₂ subsequently. As the transfer device 890 and the container 810 disposed thereon move a _second incremental amount C2, the cam follower 870, frame 850, and sliding member 860 (shown in FIG. 33). And) pivot about the axis 842 toward the container 810 in the direction of arrow E. Depending on the relative position of the cam member 880 and cam follower 870 and the contour or shape of the cam surface 882 and cam follower 872, a wide variety of movements of the sliding member 860 relative to the container 810 and its label 820 can occur. realizable. As container 810 and label 820 move past sliding member 860, the portion of label 820 that is not in contact with container 810 is now upstream of member 860 but then past member 860. Specifically, it is pulled past the sliding element 864. Depending on the shape and structure of the sliding element 864, the entire label or only a selected area can be pressed against the container 810 to contact it. In this manner, the above-described aspects can selectively control the size, shape, and orientation of one or more flags. This treatment is particularly desirable before the container and partially affixed label are applied to the heated flexible member for heat shrink and final label adhesion to the container.

  In another preferred embodiment according to the present invention, the sliding assembly 840 does not include the cam member 880 and is free of the cam member. Instead, the cam follower 870 is arranged to periodically contact a container that moves past the sliding assembly. Most preferably, the cam follower 870 is arranged to periodically contact an outer portion of the container neck that receives a container closure member, such as a cap, or an upper region of each container, such as an upwardly extending threaded region. The By constructing and arranging the cam follower member 870 so that it is actuated by the container itself, the simplicity, uniformity, and accuracy of the associated processing operations are facilitated. This preferred embodiment is possible for most, if not all, industrial container labeling operations, where the container is held in place along the moving transport device by the upper transport member. This is because that. The contact surface of the upper transport device member is usually frictionally reinforced to facilitate engagement between the member and the container. The plurality of containers disposed between the upper and lower transport devices are sufficiently held in place, so that the plurality of containers are each moved as the set of containers moves past the sliding assembly. The cam follower 870 in contact with the container can be supported, i.e., it cannot move.

  Of course, the present invention provides an assembly that allows for selective adjustment of almost any shape, size, and orientation of an uncontacted label area, such as a flag. Thus, the present invention can accommodate almost any configuration of a label partially applied to a container, and one associated with the label prior to final labeling and / or label heat shrinkage. Can be used to form or modify the above flags. Alternatively, the present invention can be used to fully affix a partially affixed label to a container so that no flag remains.

  For example, FIG. 36 shows a container 810 having a partially contacted label 820. The area of label 820 that is in contact with container 810 is shown as area 830, and the label area that is not in contact with container 810 is shown as areas or flags 832a and 832b. The container 810 is moving past the sliding element 864 in the direction of arrow F. Thus, the flag 832a is downstream of the sliding element 864 and the flag 832b is upstream of the element. In this example, the sliding element 864 of the sliding member 860 (not shown) comes into contact with the moving container 810 at the central position of the region 830. As container 810 and label 820 move past sliding element 864, the element moves relative to label 820 from an initial central position to a next position near the outer edge region of label 820, as shown in FIG. Gradually contact or “slide”. As shown in FIG. 37, after the label 820 was slid, the initial flag 832b was completely removed by contacting the label area with the container 810. As a result, the proportion or surface area of region 830 increased. No sliding or contact occurs with respect to the downstream flag 832a and the flag remains unchanged. Of course, after the sliding movement by the sliding element 864, prime symbols are used in conjunction with these regions to designate the regions 830 and 832a.

  FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate the first container 810 and a label 820 that is partially in contact with the container such that the contacting area 830 is relatively small compared to the flag areas 832a and 832b. . In this example, it is desirable to simply reduce the size or proportion of the upstream flag 832b so that it is not completely removed as in the example of FIGS. A heated flexible member (not shown) could then be used to affix the label flag 832b to the container.

  40 and 41 show another example in which the label 820 is first contacted with the container 810 along the front edge of the label 820. A relatively large upstream flag 832b remains. The assembly of the preferred embodiment increases the contact area between container 810 and label 820, i.e., area 830, thereby reducing or completely removing upstream flag 832b as shown in FIG. Can be used.

  In a particularly preferred process according to the present invention, the sliding assembly is used with a label dispenser. 42-44 and FIGS. 46-49 illustrate various stages during the labeling process of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention. FIG. 45 illustrates a potential problem that may occur during the labeling operation. In these figures, the preferred assembly described is used to provide a series of detailed schematics illustrating a preferred technique for applying a label and sliding the label. In general, the various parts of the sliding assembly, container, and label are as described above and are numbered with similar reference numbers in the 900s. Therefore, for example, in FIGS. Frame 950 corresponds to frame 850 previously described herein. FIGS. 42 to 49 each illustrate the container 910 during the label application operation in which the label 920 is applied to the outer surface of the container by the sliding member 960 mounted on the frame 950. In these figures, the label dispenser is schematically shown as 935 having a label dispenser chute 936 from which label 920 is paid out. Nearly all types of label dispensers can be used with the assemblies, systems, and methods described herein. Typically, the label dispenser is configured or adapted to selectively position the label near the desired outer surface of the container.

  Refer to FIG. The sliding member 960 and the frame 950 are swung out of the way, and the label can be fed or fed out between the sliding portion and the container. This is accomplished by a cam driven member that contacts or leaves the container neck, such as a driven member 870 shown in FIG. Specifically, as the container 910 moves toward the sliding member 960 and the frame 950 in the direction of arrow G, the sliding portion and the frame are moved away from the container 910 in the direction of arrow H. Preferably, the movement of sliding portion 960 and frame 950 is the result of contact between a cam follower (not shown) and the outer surface of neck 915 of container 910. At this particular stage of the labeling operation, the displacement of the sliding portion 960 and the frame 950 in the direction of arrow H is typically in the container 910, as shown by the center 902 of the container 910 upstream of the frame 950 in FIG. Happens before arrival. Center 902 is the geometric center of container 910 and is defined by the intersection of planes 902x and 902y that bisect the container. FIG. 42 also shows a preferred configuration of the chute 936, the distal end of the label dispenser 935. FIG. With this preferred orientation of the chute 936, the label 920 is parallel or at least substantially parallel to the tangent to the surface of the container 910 that faces the sliding portion and the frame and contacts the container 910 at the intersection of the container and the plane 902y. Exit dispenser 935 in one direction. This tangent is illustrated in FIG.

  Refer to FIG. As the container 910 continues to approach the slide and the frame, the cam follower starts so that the slide 960 can move toward the container 910. The sliding part then begins to direct the label towards the container. Specifically, the container 910 continues to move in the direction of arrow G toward the sliding member 960 and frame 950 assembly. Due to the shape of the cam surface of the cam follower (not shown), the frame 950 is then displaced toward the container 910 moving in the direction of arrow I shown in FIG. The movement in the direction of arrow I continues so that the contact area 966 of the sliding member 960 contacts the label 920 and shifts the label toward the container 910. At this stage of the process, the container center 902 is close to the chute 936 of the label dispenser 935.

  Reference is made to FIG. The sliding part 960 places a label at a predetermined position on the container determined by the shape of a cam follower (not shown). This action creates a label flag and controls the length of the flag. What is important is that the label is affixed to the container by the sliding part so as to remove or prevent the formation of bubbles in the label. If the label is affixed to the container before the sliding part operates in this manner, an undesirable pre-adhesion condition occurs, often containing bubbles. Specifically, in FIG. 44, the sliding member 960 and frame 950 assembly is further offset in the direction of arrow J toward the moving container 910. As a result, the contact area 966 of the sliding member 960 brings the label 920 into contact with the container 910. This contact is made so that the front edge of the label does not come into contact with the container 910, thereby producing a label flag 932a. At this stage of the labeling process, the container center 902 is substantially adjacent to the chute 936 of the label dispenser 935.

  FIG. 45 illustrates the unfavorable state of pre-adhesion. This is a condition where contact occurs between the label 920 and the container 920 upstream of the contact area 966 of the sliding member 960. As explained, this condition will typically result in the formation of bubbles below the label 920 in the region of the label denoted as T.

  In FIG. 46, the label is slid on the container by moving the sliding part along the container. Specifically, at this stage of the labeling operation, the center 902 of the container 910 is now downstream of the chute 936 of the label dispenser 935. The container continues to move in the direction of arrow G. In another preferred implementation of the present invention, the rate at which label 920 is dispensed from label dispenser 935 is adjusted. This causes the label 920 to be pulled slightly from the label dispenser because the label is in contact with the moving container 910 at this critical point in processing. It has been found that this implementation facilitates the label-free foaming of the container.

  Reference is now made to FIG. The label leaves the chute 936 and exits completely. The sliding part continues to slide the label 920 over the container. Specifically, as the container continues to move in the direction of arrow G, the label 920 is brought into contact with the container 910 and is slid by the sliding member 960. At this stage of the labeling operation, the container center 902 is downstream of the sliding portion 960 and the frame 950.

  Refer to FIG. The sliding part finishes sliding the label on the container, but the sliding part does not slide completely on the rear edge of the label. This leaves the flag at the rear edge. A flag is created because the stroke of the sliding part restricts the sliding part from further contact with the container. It is thought that by changing the cam structure, the sliding part can be separated from the container, and the length of the flag at the rear edge can be controlled. Specifically, the movement of the container 910 continues in the direction of arrow G at the labeling stage shown in FIG. The label 920 is now partially affixed to the container 910 such that there is a front edge flag 932a and a rear edge flag 932b. At this stage of processing, the contact area 966 of the sliding member 960 is located downstream of the container center 902 and between the center 902 and the rear edge surface 910b of the container 910.

  In FIG. 49, the sliding part begins to move away from the trajectory of the moving container 910 in order to perform the process on the next container from the beginning. That is, the sliding member 960 and the frame 950 are displaced far from the container 910 in the direction of the arrow K. This process is repeated for another upstream container (not shown) following the container 910.

  It is clear that the present invention is in no way limited to any labeling practice shown and described herein. While not wishing to be limited to any particular implementation, typically preferred implementations are as follows. The label is first contacted with the container upstream of the label, ie along the front edge or region. The edge or region need not include the foremost edge portion of the label, but is generally defined near the foremost edge portion of the label. The foremost edge portion of the label is not in contact with the container and thus constitutes a flag. The area of the container underneath which corresponds to the flag at the foremost edge is generally compound curved. The flag is stuck in contact with the compound curved region of the container completely by, for example, a flexible member heated in a later operation.

  The container with the partially affixed label moves past the sliding assembly as described herein. The sliding assembly then further contacts the label with the container by the selective sliding action described herein. Preferably, the sliding motion is terminated such that a flag at the rear edge that is not in contact with the container area under the generally compound curve is left. The flag at the rear edge is stuck in contact with the compound curved region of the container completely by, for example, a flexible member heated in a later operation.

  It is also contemplated that other parts such as pneumatic or hydraulic actuators or electric servo motors could be used to selectively place one or more parts to achieve further label and container configurations. It is done. For example, instead of using a pivoting mechanism for the frame 850, it does not interfere with the position for sliding the label and allowing the container and / or label flag to pass through without interference from the sliding member 860. A track system and one or more servo motors could be used to selectively position the sliding member 860 in position.

  The present invention also provides various methods for selectively contacting a label, eg, for selectively sliding a label or a portion of the label placed on a moving container. These methods generally include providing a movable cam member and a movable frame assembly. The cam is configured such that the movement of the cam corresponds to the movement of the container and the label placed on the container. The frame is preferably pivotally movable about a vertical pivot axis. The sliding member is attached to or engaged with the movable frame. The frame is positioned relative to the path of the moving container so that the sliding member can move between the two positions as the frame pivots. In one of the positions, the sliding member is in close proximity to the container path. In the other position, the sliding part is arranged at a distance from the path of the container. The term “proximity of contact” as used herein with respect to a sliding member means that when the container moves past the sliding member, the distal edge or end region of the sliding member is It means the member in a position where it comes into contact with the label placed on the container.

  In a preferred method, the cam follower is provided in conjunction with the movable frame. The frame is disposed and oriented such that the cam follower is in operative engagement with the cam member. Most preferably, when the moving container is near the frame so that the sliding part contacts the label placed on the container, the sliding part is in the proximity of the pivot so that it is in contact with the container. The movements of the cam, the cam follower, and the container are interlocked with each other so as to pivot. As the container moves past the frame, the frame pivots about the pivot axis so that the sliding member is displaced or moved away from the path of the moving container.

  These methods also provide a method of selectively contacting a label, as described herein, where the container itself serves as a cam member. The method includes providing a cam follower that operates by a collection of containers moving by the cam follower. Periodic contact between the cam follower and the container (such as the neck of the container) can be used to control the movement of the sliding member.

  Of course, the present invention includes variations of this method and provides a number of techniques for selectively contacting a label or portion of a label placed on a moving container.

  All or any of a wide variety of labels, films, and assemblies of such techniques can be selectively applied to containers using the various devices, systems, and methods described herein. For example, typical examples of material use for a label or label substrate include, but are not limited to, paper, polyester (mylar), polyethylene, and the like. As mentioned above, the label or film may be in the form of a heat shrinkable film. Shrink films useful for labels may be single layer or multi-layer structures. A single layer or multiple layers of shrink film can be made from a polymer selected from polyesters, polyolefins, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polylactic acid, copolymers, and mixtures thereof. In general, any label or film, adhesive, and further aspects thereof previously described herein with the use of flexible members can be used with labeling systems and techniques that use sliding members. The present invention can be used to apply a wide variety of labels, films, and other components. For example, the present invention can be used with shrink labels, pressure sensitive labels, pressure sensitive shrink labels, heat seal labels, and almost any type of label or film known in the packaging and labeling arts. A label applied using all or any of the devices, systems, and methods described herein preferably exhibits some of the following characteristics or aspects. The label is generally dimensioned so that the label does not extend around the entire periphery of the container when the label is fully contacted or adhered to the container. Most preferably, upon complete contact with the container, the area such as the edge of the label does not overlap with the edge or area such as the same label.

  The present invention also provides various labeling systems for producing labeled containers. These systems selectively contact a label dispenser that selectively positions a label beside a moving container, a label or labels, and one or more areas of the label that are positioned beside the container by the label dispenser. Including assembly. The assembly includes a movable frame that includes at least one frame member that is pivotally movable about a pivot axis. The assembly further includes a sliding member engaged with and movable with the frame member. The sliding member includes a sliding element that contacts the label. The assembly also includes a cam follower attached to the frame and movable therewith. The movement of the cam follower corresponds to the movement of the container, whereby the sliding element selectively contacts the label on the moving container.

[Post-heat treatment]
As described in more detail herein, there are various methods and systems for post-processing labels or films that have been previously applied with an adhesive to a substrate, such as a container. These methods mainly include heating the applied label or label assembly to a specific temperature relatively quickly and usually immediately after label application. Preferably, during this heating operation, the adhesive placed between the label and the surface of the container or substrate is also heated in the same way as the label. As used herein with respect to labels, the term “adhesive” refers to a label that is applied and held by one or more layers of adhesive (s) along the exposed surface of the container or substrate. Means. Labels applied and processed by the specific methods described herein are reduced in defect rate, improved label retention and adhesion compared to corresponding labels applied without the method, And show excellent aesthetics.

  In particular, the present invention further improves techniques and methods for applying labels and films on curved surfaces such as the outer curved surfaces of various containers. Although the present invention has been described in terms of processing techniques for labels or films previously affixed to containers, it is clear that the present invention is not limited to containers. Instead, the present invention can be used to post-process various labels or films previously applied to the surface of almost any type of article. The present invention is particularly directed to the processing of shrink labels previously applied to curved container surfaces. The present invention is also specifically intended for the processing of labels such as shrinkable labels affixed to the complex curved surfaces of various containers.

  Obviously, the present invention can be used to process labels and films affixed to a wide variety of surfaces including flat and simple curved surfaces. However, as described in more detail herein, the present invention is particularly suitable for the post-treatment of labels and films attached to composite curved surfaces, and their associated adhesive (s). It is suitable for.

  Usually, according to the preferred method, after the label is applied to the container, it was previously applied to the container at a specific timing and within a specific time during the application operation in order to thermally anneal the label film material. Heat is applied to one or more labels. Preferably, the adhesive disposed between the label and the receiving surface is also heated to the same extent as the label, i.e. to a considerable extent. It has been found that heating affixed labels to a specific temperature minimizes darts, wrinkles, bubbles, lift and other label defects that are typically caused by aging. Such defects that occur after labeling are collectively referred to herein as “post defects”.

  Depending on the particular labeling process, the post heat treatment method may also be able to eliminate one or more preheating operations. In the case of a label containing a heat-shrinkable material, the preferred post-applying heating is performed after the label has been heat-shrinked. Heat can be applied to the labeled container in a variety of ways, such as using an infrared lamp, radiant heater, hot air forced convection oven, shrink tunnel, and the like. The amount of heat is usually determined by the properties of the label material, the speed of the labeling process, and the amount of heat already applied to the label prior to the post heat treatment section. For labels containing heat shrinkable materials, the amount of heat is also determined by the shrink temperature of the material. Any type of container having an affixed label can accept the processing techniques described herein. All of these aspects are described herein in more detail.

[Preferred treatment method]
A preferred method of treatment involves heating previously applied labels and adhesives to a specific temperature within the labeling operation or at a specific time thereafter. Preferably, the applied label and adhesive are at or near ambient temperature and are heated to a temperature of about 30 ° C. to about 150 ° C., and more desirably heated to a temperature of about 50 ° C. to about 100 ° C. Is done. Usually, the heating process of the affixed label is rapid, for example, generally less than 5 seconds, desirably less than 3 seconds, and most desirably less than 1 second. By employing such a rapid heating time, the processing method described herein can be used for high-speed labeling operations.

  In practice, to achieve these specific temperatures for the affixed label, the affixed label may be placed in an environment having a temperature of at least 100 ° C. The heating step can be performed by any suitable method. Typically, the heating step can be performed by one or more heat transfer mechanisms such as conduction heating, convection heating, radiant heating, or combinations thereof. A wide variety of heat generating devices or devices can be used to heat the attached label and accompanying adhesive. Non-limiting examples include, but are not limited to, infrared lamps, radiant heaters, hot air forced convection ovens, heating chambers, heating tunnels, heating contact surfaces, and the like. Preferably, the heating step is performed with a radiant heater in the chamber, or a hot air gun in the chamber, in each case with an infrared (IR) sensor for measuring the temperature of the label at the outlet. The The heating device is a well-known technique and is readily available.

  Preferably, the treatment step includes heating the label and the adhesive layer immediately after application to the container or substrate. The term “immediately” as used herein means that the heating process of the label is started after application without delay so that the heating process is generally performed following label application. Under actual conditions, the heating step is preferably performed in less than 5 seconds after labeling, and most preferably in less than 1 second after labeling. However, it will be appreciated that the present invention also includes a heating step performed subsequent to labeling, such as after a time of 1 minute or more after labeling, or after a few hours for certain applications. Furthermore, it is believed that the heating technique described herein could be performed well after labeling, for example, up to 24 hours after labeling. The specific temperature and time mainly depends on the material used for the label or film, the properties of the label, and the adhesive.

  Affixed labels and adhesives processed by the specific methods described herein have reduced defect rates, improved labels compared to corresponding labels affixed without complying with the method Shows good holding power and adhesion, and good aesthetics. Specifically, labels that are compliant with the processing techniques described herein maintain their affixed state, wrinkles, darts are formed, or edges or labels and There is a tendency for no lifting or separation to appear along the interface with the receiving surface. Thus, labels and adhesives that are compliant with the processing technology of the present invention generally have a longer retention period and stronger relative to the underlying surface compared to corresponding labels that are not compliant with the processing technology described herein. It shows an improvement in holding power that is characterized as having strong adhesive strength. There are no defects such as wrinkles, darts, bubbles, and / or lifts, resulting in improved appearance and excellent aesthetic labels. These properties are desirable from a commercial point of view, particularly when the label is on a container that is displayed in a retail environment.

  Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that various internal stresses in the polymer label or film material occur or increase during label manufacture, particularly during label application. The internal stress in the film material is particularly prominent during and / or one of the heat shrinking process and the sticking process of the heat shrinkable label. While the relatively permanent bond provided by the label adhesive helps to keep the label in its original applied state, internal stress in the label material can cause subsequent deformation of the label, and It may cause movement from the position where it is stuck. These effects usually appear as label defects in the form of wrinkles, darts and the like. Thus, according to the present invention, a method and system for preventing post-defects of labels is provided. Typically, these methods include providing a substrate such as a container having a polymer label that is affixed with an adhesive. These methods also include heating the applied label to a temperature sufficient to reduce at least some of the internal stress in the label material after application of the label, preferably immediately after application of the label adhesive. By preventing or at least reducing post defects in labels that would otherwise occur.

  According to the method of the preferred embodiment described herein, the step of heating the applied label to a specific temperature and at a specific point in the labeling operation is performed in the label material (s). It was found that the stress can be sufficiently reduced to such an extent that the label defect does not occur. As described above, a label affixed to a curved container surface, particularly a compound curved container surface, tends to exhibit such defects. It is surprising and unexpected that such defects can be removed by the heating technique described herein. Furthermore, certain heating operations are performed such that no dimensional change occurs on the label. This is important when using heat shrinkable materials. Furthermore, the post-heating operation described herein can eliminate the need for one or more pre-heating steps that are typically used in known labeling processes when performed in a particular labeling operation.

[System to reduce post-label defects]
The present invention also provides various systems and associated device assemblies for performing the methods and techniques described herein. Preferably, the system serves to reduce and ideally eliminate post-defects on the label. The system mainly includes an assembly for attaching the label to the container with an adhesive. Examples of labeling assemblies include the following U.S. patents or U.S. patent application publications: U.S. Pat. No. 4,192,703, U.S. Pat. No. 4,561,928, U.S. Pat. Patent Document 24 (US Pat. No. 4,724,029), Patent Document 25 (US Pat. No. 5,785,798), Patent Document 26 (US Pat. No. 7,318,877), Patent Provided in one or more of document 27 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0153427) and the above-mentioned Patent Document 28 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0113965). As will be apparent, the system of the present invention is not limited to the use of one or more of these representative labeling assemblies. Instead, the system of the present invention that reduces post-label defects can be used with almost any type of labeling device. The system according to the present invention also includes one or more heaters that heat the applied label immediately after the label is applied to the container with an adhesive. The one or more heaters can desirably heat the affixed label from ambient temperature to a temperature of about 30 ° C. to about 150 ° C. in less than about 5 seconds. Needless to say, the system of the present invention can use a heater that performs the above-described heating process of the applied label in a time longer than 5 seconds. An example of a suitable heater is the heater previously described herein. Preferably, these systems, particularly heaters, can heat the label to a temperature of about 50 ° C to about 100 ° C. Preferably, these systems, particularly heaters, can heat the label to a specified temperature in less than 3 seconds, preferably less than 1 second. Preferably, these heaters are radiant heaters. However, as noted herein, a wide variety of heating devices can be used. The system also includes one or more temperature sensors, such as infrared (IR) sensors, to conveniently and accurately measure the temperature of the label during and after the heating operation.

  The polypropylene label was affixed to the container at a temperature lower than the temperature at which the labeled affixed container was generally free of defects. All labels were affixed without defects when applied. Immediately thereafter, the labeled containers were placed in an oven at 100 ° C. with various pause times. The final temperature of the label was measured at the end of the oven. Thereafter, the containers were inspected after one week at room temperature.

  Control samples that were not post-heat treated failed within one week due to defect formation. All samples that were subjected to 100 ° C. afterheat (square) for at least 30 seconds passed the post-age inspection for 1 week. Based on these results, an outlet temperature of at least 50 ° C. is considered sufficient in the post-heat stage to prevent defects in this particular label material.

  While the various processing procedures described herein have been described with the removal of one or more heating steps prior to or during labeling, it will be appreciated that the present invention can also be used with labeling operations that include a heating step. Including the use of processed procedures. Therefore, the processing procedure described in this specification is considered as a pillar of the label operation.

  Although the present invention and various preferred embodiments thereof have been described in terms of the process of applying a label, particularly a pressure sensitive shrinkable label, to a curved surface of a container, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to labels, films, etc. In addition to the surface attached to the container, a thin flexible member can be applied to the process of attaching to other surfaces. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the present invention can be used to affix such parts to a relatively flat surface.

  For further details relating to the step of applying a pressure-sensitive label, in particular, a pressure-sensitive shrinkage label, see Patent Document 29 (International Publication No. WO2008 / 124581), Patent Document 30 (US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0038736), And the above-mentioned patent document 31 (US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0038737).

  Further details regarding the thermal transfer labeling technique are described in Patent Document 32 (US Pat. No. 4,610,744), Patent Document 33 (US Pat. No. 6,698,958), Patent Document 34 (US Patent Application Publication). 2008/0185093), Patent Document 35 (US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0275319), Patent Document 36 (US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0009732), Patent Document 37 (US Patent Application Publication No. 2005). / 0100689), Patent Document 38 (International Publication No. WO2004 / 050262), Patent Document 39 (International Publication No. WO2005 / 0669256), Patent Document 40 (US Pat. No. 7,758,938), Patent Document 41 (US Pat. No. 6,756,095), Patent Document 42 (International Publication No. W) 2002/055295), Patent Document 43 (US Pat. No. 6,228,486), Patent Document 44 (US Pat. No. 6,461,722), Patent Document 45 (International Publication No. WO2000 / 20199). ), Patent Document 46 (International Publication No. WO2000 / 23330), Patent Document 47 (US Patent No. 6,796,352), Patent Document 48 (International Publication No. WO2002 / 12071), Patent Document 49 (US Patent Publication No. 2007/0281137) and the above-mentioned Patent Document 50 (International Publication No. WO2007 / 142970).

  Many other advantages will certainly be apparent from future applications and developments of this technology.

  All patents, published applications, and articles mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

  As described above, the present invention solves many problems associated with conventional types of devices and methods. It should be understood, however, that various changes in detail in the materials and apparatus of the parts or operations described and illustrated herein to illustrate the nature of the invention are as set forth in the appended claims. It can be made by a person skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the invention.

Claims (13)

A method of applying a thermal transfer design from a support member or web to a container, wherein the thermal transfer design includes an area of ink or other colored paint disposed on the support member or web, the method comprising:
(I) a rigid frame defining a second surface facing away from the first surface and defining an opening extending between the first surface and the second surface; Here, the frame includes a first guide and a second guide extending from the second surface of the frame, and the first guide and the second guide are at least one of the openings. (Ii) disposed adjacent to the first surface of the frame, extending through the opening of the frame, and outwardly from the second surface of the frame. Providing a label processing apparatus including a flexible member projecting from the flexible member, wherein the flexible member defines an outer surface for contacting the support member or web, the flexible member comprising the frame of the frame. Define an inner hollow area accessible from the first surface The flexible member is deformable when subjected to the label-contact force on a part of the member projecting outwardly from said second surface of said frame,
Heating the flexible member;
Positioning the thermal transfer design and the support member or web between the outer surface of the flexible member and the container;
Contacting the support member or web with the outer surface of the flexible member, contacting the container and the thermal transfer design;
Applying a label contact force to the flexible member, thereby deforming the flexible member and transferring the thermal transfer design at least partially to the container;
Including
The flexible member is disposed between the first guide and the second guide, and the first guide and the second guide apply the label contact force to the flexible member. A method which serves to limit the extent of lateral outward deformation of said flexible member. The method of claim 1, wherein the thermal transfer design includes a layer of release material between the ink or other colored paint and the support member or web . The method of claim 1, wherein the flexible member is heated at a temperature sufficient to peel the thermal transfer design from the support member or web .   The method of claim 1, wherein the label processing apparatus further comprises a heat source disposed in the inner hollow region of the flexible member to heat the outer surface of the flexible member.   The method of claim 4, wherein the heat source includes an electrical resistance heater disposed within the inner hollow region of the flexible member.   The method of claim 1, wherein the flexible member comprises a silicone material.   The method of claim 1, wherein the flexible member defines a longitudinal axis and is symmetric with respect to the longitudinal axis. The flexible member is
A base in contact with the first surface of the frame;
A plurality of side walls protruding from the base;
A dome-shaped surface, and
The dome-shaped surface includes the outer surface for heating in contact with a label;
The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sidewalls extend between the base and the dome-shaped surface and are integrally formed with the base and the dome-shaped surface.   The opening of the frame defines four edges and the flexible member includes four sidewalls each positioned parallel to the corresponding edge. The method described. The method of claim 1, wherein the thermal transfer design has an MVTR of at least 100 g / m ² / day as measured by ASTM 96E Procedure D. A thermal transfer label comprising a support member or web and an area of ink or other colored paint disposed on the support member or web;
A label processing system comprising: a label processing device that contacts a container and heats the label simultaneously;
Here, the label processing device
(I) a rigid frame defining a second surface facing away from the first surface and defining an opening extending between the first surface and the second surface;
The frame includes a first guide and a second guide extending from the second surface of the frame, and the first guide and the second guide are separated by at least a part of the opening. Has been
(Ii) a flexible member disposed adjacent to the first surface of the frame, extending through the opening of the frame and projecting outward from the second surface of the frame; When,
The flexible member defines an outer surface for contacting the label;
The flexible member defines an inner hollow region accessible from the first surface of the frame;
The flexible member is deformable when a label contact force is applied to a portion of the member projecting outward from the second surface of the frame; and (iii) the outer surface of the flexible member. A heat source disposed within the inner hollow region of the flexible member,
Including
Here, the flexible member is disposed between the first guide and the second guide, and the first guide and the second guide apply the label contact force to the flexible member. Acts to limit the extent of lateral outward deformation of the flexible member when added,
A label processing system characterized by that. 12. The label processing system of claim 11, wherein the thermal transfer label further comprises a release layer disposed between the ink or other colored paint region and the support member or web . 12. The label processing system of claim 11, wherein the thermal transfer label has an MVTR of at least 100 g / m < ² > / day as measured by ASTM 96E Procedure D.

Images