JP6054214B2 - Labeling device and labeling system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a labeling device for attaching a label having a heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface to an adherend such as a packaging container or a packing box.
The present invention also relates to a labeling system that creates a label on which various information is displayed using various image forming apparatuses such as a thermal transfer system, an ink jet system, and an electrophotographic system, and affixes the created label to a packaging container. It is.

  A heat-sensitive label having a hot-melt adhesive layer formed on the back surface has been widely put into practical use. This hot-melt adhesive has a property that it does not have adhesiveness at room temperature, and develops adhesiveness when heated, and is used as an adhesive for attaching labels to packaging containers and bags (for example, Patent Document 1).

  As a labeling device (label affixing device) that affixes a heat-sensitive label to an adherend such as a packaging container, the heat-sensitive label on which various display information has been printed is conveyed to a predetermined affixing position by means of an adsorption belt. A labeling device that heats a label from the back side is known (for example, see Patent Document 2). In this known labeling device, the heat-sensitive label is arranged so that the printing surface faces the suction belt directly, and is held on the belt by the suction force of the suction belt and transferred. A heating device is arranged in the transfer path of the suction belt so as to face the suction belt, and the heatable adhesive layer formed on the back surface during the transfer is directly heated to the activation temperature by the heating device.

As another labeling device, a single drum type labeling device is known (see, for example, Patent Document 3). In this type of labeling apparatus, necessary items are printed in advance on a label sheet, and the printed label sheet is cut into a predetermined length to form a label, which is then fed into a transport drum. The transport drum is connected to a vacuum pump, and the label is sucked onto the drum. The transport drum functions as a transport device, and the label is heated during transport and transported to a predetermined position. In this labeling device, hot air heating means and halogen lamp heating means are arranged in the rotation path of the transport drum so as to face the drum, and hot air and infrared rays are irradiated from the back side on which the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed. ing.
JP2012-25108A JP-A-5-213328 JP 2001-2039 A

  In the labeling device for transferring a label using the above-described suction belt, it is necessary to connect the moving suction belt to a vacuum source, and there is a drawback that the transfer device for transferring the label becomes large. Further, in the system for transferring the label by the transport drum, it is necessary to connect the rotating drum to a vacuum source, and there is a drawback that the apparatus becomes large and complicated. Furthermore, when a halogen lamp or a hot air device is used as the heating device, there is a drawback that the heat exchange efficiency is extremely low. That is, when heating with infrared rays, only about several to 10% of the released energy is used, which is not preferable from the viewpoint of energy efficiency.

  Furthermore, in the structure in which the transfer device for transferring the label and the heating device are individually arranged, there is a problem that the entire system becomes large. On the other hand, if the transfer device and the heating device are integrated, the labeling device can be miniaturized and a labeling device with high versatility can be expected.

  Further, in the collection / delivery center and the delivery center, the destination and the delivery time are different for each collected cargo. For this reason, it is necessary to create a label in which different display contents are recorded for each packaged cargo, and affix the individually created label to each packaged cargo. However, since the labeling devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 described above are systems that affix a label on which the same display content is printed in advance, there is a drawback that the collection and delivery center and the shipping center cannot sufficiently cope with it. That is, a labeling apparatus that applies labels having the same display contents to products that are mass-produced such as bags and cans is a system that uniformly applies the same labels. On the other hand, the labeling device used in the collection and delivery center needs to create labels with different display contents for each packaging container forming the cargo, and affix each created label to the corresponding packaging container. High versatility is required. Therefore, from the viewpoint of versatility, the known labeling device disclosed in the above patent document has a drawback that it is not compatible with a labeling device used in a shipping center or a distribution center.

  As a system that integrates a printing press and a labeling device, a system that uses a thermal transfer type image forming device, records display information on a label by the thermal transfer type image forming device, and attaches a label on which the display information is recorded is assumed. Is done. However, the thermal transfer type image forming apparatus has a drawback that the throughput is slow because the printing speed is limited. Further, since the price of the thermal transfer film is high and the replacement frequency of the ink ribbon is high, there is a problem that the running cost is high in a collection and distribution center where a large amount of labels are consumed.

  On the other hand, since the recording speed of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus is considerably high, it is expected to exhibit excellent processing performance in a collection / distribution center that records different display information on a large number of labels. In addition, since the consumption materials are inexpensive toner and recording paper, an advantage that the running cost is significantly reduced is achieved. Therefore, if a labeling system in which an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is integrated is realized, it is expected to contribute to automation in a collection / delivery center or the like. However, since an electrophotographic image forming apparatus mainly uses a device for thermally fixing a toner image, it is difficult to use a label having a heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface. That is, when recording paper on which display information is formed as a toner image is supplied to a thermal fixing device and fixed, the toner image is fixed on the substrate by the thermal fixing device, but the heat-sensitive adhesive on the back side is also active. There is a danger that the label will be heated to a temperature exceeding the conversion temperature, the label will adhere to the heat fixing device, and an accident such as a paper jam will occur. Accordingly, the actual situation is that an electrophotographic image forming apparatus cannot be applied to a labeling system.

An object of the present invention is to eliminate the above-described drawbacks and to realize a labeling device that is compact and excellent in versatility by integrating a heating device and a transfer device for heating a heat-sensitive adhesive layer of a label.
Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to provide a labeling system that can affix labels with different display contents for each packaging container and has excellent versatility.
Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to realize a labeling system capable of recording display information on a label using an electrophotographic image forming apparatus and attaching the label on which the display information is recorded to various packaging containers. There is to do.

Labeling apparatus according to the present invention, display information on the first surface is recorded, the labeling device for affixing a label heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed on a second surface opposing the first surface to the adherend Because
A pickup device for picking up a label on which display information is recorded;
A pickup device is integrally connected, and includes a transfer device for transferring the picked-up label to a predetermined labeling position;
The pickup device is configured as a rotatable heating roller having a heating element and a heat-resistant adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof ,
The heating roller rotates while pressing against the first surface of the label when picking up the label, and holds the label by the adhesive force generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label,
The heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the second surface of the label is supplied from the pickup device through the first surface of the label while the picked-up label is transferred to a predetermined application position. It is characterized by being heated to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature by thermal energy.

  In the present invention, the adhesive force of the adhesive rubber layer is used as a method for picking up and holding the label. By pressing the adhesive rubber layer against the surface of the label, the adhesive rubber layer and the label surface are in close contact, and the label can be held by the adhesive rubber layer. Further, in the present invention, since the heating device (heating means) or the heat energy generating means is built in the pickup device, an adhesive rubber layer can be provided adjacent to the heating element. If the heating element and the adhesive rubber layer are adjacent to each other, the heat energy released from the heating element is transferred to the label side through the adhesive rubber layer. As a result, while the label is held by the pickup device and moved to the application position, the label is heated by the pickup device from the front surface side, so the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface of the label exceeds the activation temperature. Raise to temperature. As a result, the heating means for heating the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the label and the transfer means for transferring the label are integrated, and a labeling apparatus having a small size and excellent versatility is constructed.

  An adhesive silicone rubber material can be used as the adhesive rubber layer having heat resistance. The adhesive silicone rubber having high surface smoothness has heat resistance and adhesiveness, and is extremely useful when heating the label while holding the label. What is particularly important is that the adhesive strength of the adhesive silicone rubber is closely related to its temperature, and the adhesive strength becomes more pronounced as the temperature increases. Therefore, when the adhesive silicone rubber is heated to about 130 ° C., a stronger adhesive force is exhibited than at normal temperature, which is beneficial for holding the label. Furthermore, since the surface of the whitened sheet material made of plastic such as polyester, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride as the base sheet of the label has a high smoothness, the surface of the adhesive silicon rubber layer with a smooth surface can be obtained. Good adhesion is ensured between the two. Accordingly, the adhesive silicone rubber is effective as a pickup element for picking up a label on which a heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed. Furthermore, since the adhesive silicone rubber layer is formed to a thickness of about several hundred μm, the heat capacity is small, and the heat energy released from the heating means can be transferred almost instantaneously to the label side. Moreover, since the heat capacity of the plastic sheet material having a thickness of about 50 μm as the base sheet is small, the temperature exceeding the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface during the transfer of the label to the application position. The temperature can be increased to. Therefore, a labeling device that is useful also from the viewpoint of consumption of heat energy is realized. Note that silicone rubber impregnated with silicone oil can also be used as the adhesive silicone rubber material. That is, silicone rubber impregnated with silicone oil having a high surface smoothness exerts adhesiveness and releasability when adhered to a plastic sheet or paper. Furthermore, various adhesive rubber materials having heat resistance other than silicone rubber can be used as the adhesive rubber layer.

  As an image forming apparatus for recording display information on the label surface, an ink jet type image forming apparatus or a thermal transfer type image forming apparatus can be used. If a computer and a keyboard or communication means are connected to these image forming apparatuses, display information such as the address of the packaging container and delivery time can be easily recorded on the label surface. It is beneficial.

  The surface temperature of the adhesive rubber layer is controlled to a temperature not lower than the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive and not higher than the melting temperature of the recording material such as toner or ink. As an example, when the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is 80 ° C. and the melting temperature of the toner or ink is 150 ° C., the adhesive rubber layer is controlled to be maintained at 120 ° C. This temperature control can be performed with high accuracy using a temperature sensor and a controller.

  Various transfer devices can be used as a transfer device having a pickup device for picking up a label. For example, a rotary drum type transfer device can be used. In this case, the transfer device in which the pickup device and the transfer device are integrated is realized by embedding the heating device in the rotating drum and forming the adhesive silicon rubber layer on the outermost periphery. In this case, by appropriately setting the diameter of the rotating drum in consideration of the label size, it is possible to realize a transfer device corresponding to various label sizes and transfer distances. Furthermore, it is also possible to use a rack and pinion type transfer device connected to the drive device as the transfer device. Furthermore, a transfer device that performs rotational movement can be used, and a robot mechanism that combines linear movement and rotational movement can also be used as the transfer device. For these transfer devices, an optimal transfer mechanism is selected according to a physical distribution system such as a collection / delivery center.

  Various heating elements can be used as the heating element. For example, a planar flexible heater, a ceramic heater, a combination of a ceramic heat and a heat block, or a rod heater can be used. It is also possible to use a heating element in which a halogen lamp is arranged inside a cylindrical aluminum pipe having an adhesive silicone rubber layer formed on the outer peripheral surface. In this case, the light energy emitted from the halogen lamp is absorbed by the aluminum pipe and converted into heat energy, and the adhesive silicone rubber layer can be heated to a predetermined temperature.

The labeling system according to the present invention, which is described as a reference, covers a label in which display information is recorded on a first surface of a base sheet and a heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed on a second surface opposite to the first surface. A labeling system to be attached to a kimono,
An image forming apparatus for recording display information on the first surface of the base sheet;
A pickup device that picks up a label that is sent from the image forming apparatus and that records display information is connected, and includes a transfer device that transfers the picked-up label to a predetermined labeling position;
The pickup device includes a heating element and an adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery of the heating element and having heat resistance,
In the pickup device, when the label is picked up, the adhesive rubber layer is pressed against the first surface of the label so that the adhesive force is generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label. To hold the label,
The heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the second surface of the label is supplied from the pickup device via the first surface while being held by the pickup device and transferred to a predetermined application position. It is characterized by being heated to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature by thermal energy.

  In the above-described labeling system, the image forming apparatus includes an inkjet image forming apparatus or a thermal transfer image forming apparatus, and an information input device or a communication unit is connected to the image forming apparatus, and the information input device or the communication unit. Information to be displayed on the label is input to the image forming apparatus via the.

Labeling system according to the present invention, it displays information on the first surface is recorded and labeling system for affixing a label heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed on a second surface opposing the first surface to the adherend Because
An electrophotographic image forming apparatus that forms display information on a first surface of the label and sends out a label in which the display information is formed as an unfixed toner image;
A pickup device that picks up a label that is sent from the image forming apparatus and has an unfixed toner image formed thereon, and thermally fixes the unfixed toner image to the label ;
The pickup device is connected, and includes a transfer device that transfers the picked up label to a predetermined labeling position,
The pickup device has a heating element and a heat-resistant adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof ,
When the label is picked up, the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup device is pressed against the first surface of the label, and the label is picked up by the adhesive force generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label. is held,
While the picked-up label is transferred to a predetermined application position, the unfixed toner image is heat-fixed on the first surface of the label by the heat energy supplied from the pickup device, and the second label The heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the surface is heated to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature by thermal energy supplied from the pickup device via the first surface of the label.

  As described above, when an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that thermally fixes a toner image is used as an apparatus for recording display information on a label, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is heated by the fixing apparatus. There were high barriers. In order to solve this problem, in the present invention, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus from which a fixing device is removed is used, and a label on which display information is formed as an unfixed toner image is sent from the image forming apparatus. Then, using a pickup device that has a built-in heating means and also functions as a thermal head, the unfixed toner image is thermally fixed to the base sheet and the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface is heated to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature. Heat. Thus, by using the means for heating the heat-sensitive adhesive layer as means for heat-fixing an unfixed toner image, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that has been considered impossible in the past is labeled. Can be integrated into As a result, in a collection / delivery center that sorts a large quantity of cargo at high speed, it is possible to create a label in which predetermined destination information and shipping time are recorded for each packaging container and label it at a low running cost. .

  When the pickup device that functions as a thermal head is pressed against the label, the resin material that is the main component of the toner is heated and melted. The main component of the toner is a thermoplastic resin, and the resin material functions as a kind of adhesive when heat-melted. Therefore, the melted toner functions as a kind of adhesive for the label base sheet and the silicone rubber layer of the pickup device. As a result, an adhesive is locally interposed between the base sheet of the label and the pickup device, the bonding force between the label and the pickup device is further increased, and the label is more firmly attached to the pickup device. A retained technical effect is achieved. As a result, even if the adhesive strength of the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup device is relatively weak, the melted toner exhibits a function as an adhesive, so that the label can be held by the pickup device.

  A preferred embodiment of the labeling system according to the present invention is characterized in that the base sheet of the label is made of a plastic sheet, and the resin material of the toner and the resin material of the base sheet are made of the same resin material. The melted toner functions as a kind of adhesive for the base sheet of the label and the silicone rubber layer of the pickup device, and there is a merit that the holding force for the label of the pickup device becomes stronger. However, although the advantage that the holding force for the label of the pickup device is strong is achieved, when the pickup device is separated from the packaging container after the label is attached to the packaging container, the gap between the silicone rubber and the molten toner of the pickup device is reduced. When the bonding force is strong, the molten toner is transferred not to the label side but to the pickup device side, and the display information on the label may become unclear. In order to solve this problem, in the present invention, the resin material of the toner and the resin material of the base sheet are made of the same resin material. If the resin material of the toner and the resin material of the base sheet are made of the same resin material system, the wettability between the molten toner and the base sheet is further increased, and the bonding force between the molten toner and the base sheet is increased. Becomes stronger. Therefore, when the pickup device is separated from the packaging container, the toner is held on the base sheet side where a higher bonding force acts, and the problem that the molten toner is transferred to the pickup device side is solved. At this time, if the base sheet of the label is made of a polyester-based resin sheet and the resin material of the toner is made of a polyester-based resin, high wettability is ensured between the melted toner and the base sheet. In particular, since the pickup device melts and heats the toner and also heats the polyester resin sheet, the pick-up property is further improved, and a considerably strong bonding force can be formed between the base sheet and the toner.

In the present invention, since the pickup device for holding the label has a built-in heating element (heating means) and an adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof, the heat-sensitive adhesive formed on the back surface of the label while holding the label The agent layer can be heated. At this time, the adhesive rubber layer that is in direct contact with the label has high thermal conductivity and can be thinned, so that the heat capacity is considerably reduced, and the thermal energy released from the heating element is transferred quickly and almost instantly. To the side. Further, the heat capacity of the base sheet of the label is considerably small, and the adhesiveness at the interface between the adhesive rubber layer and the label surface is high due to the elastic deformation of the adhesive rubber layer, and an air gap is hardly formed. Therefore, the temperature-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface of the label can be raised to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature while the label is picked up and transferred to a predetermined application position. As a result, a labeling device having a small size and excellent versatility is constructed, and a labeling device useful from the viewpoint of effective use of thermal energy is realized.
Further, according to the present invention, the pickup device that picks up the label not only functions as a heating device that heats the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface of the label, but also as a fixing device that thermally fixes the unfixed toner image. Can also be used. Therefore, an unfixed toner image can be thermally fixed on the surface of the label while the label is held by the pickup device, so that an electrophotographic image forming apparatus can be integrated into the labeling system. As a result, a label on which display information is recorded using an electrophotographic apparatus can be produced at a high speed and can be labeled at a low running cost.
Furthermore, in the present invention, when the pickup device is pressed against the label, the unfixed toner is melted, and the melted toner is interposed as an adhesive between the base sheet of the label and the silicone rubber layer of the pickup device. That is, since an effect of locally interposing an adhesive between the base sheet and the silicone rubber layer is generated, an advantage that the holding force for the label of the pickup device is further ensured is achieved. As a result, it is possible to prevent a problem that the picked-up label is detached from the pickup device.

It is a figure which shows a series of operation | movement of the labeling apparatus by this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a label. It is a figure which shows an example of the pick-up apparatus of the labeling apparatus by this invention. Shows a series of operations when labeling using a hot plate stamp type pickup device. It is a figure which shows the transfer apparatus of a conveyance drum system. It is a diagram showing a rolling pickup device.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a series of steps of a labeling system according to the present invention. The present invention provides a labeling suitable for creating a label in which necessary items are recorded for each cargo in a packaging container of each cargo collected at a collection and delivery center or the like, and attaching the created label to a corresponding cargo. Provide a system. The operator inputs display information via the personal computer 1 to which a keyboard is connected. Or it is also possible to input display information via a communication means. The input display information is supplied to the image forming apparatus 2, and the image forming apparatus records the display information on a stock label. The display information includes various types of information such as the destination of the packaging container constituting the cargo, the shipping time, the arrival time, and the delivery route, and the display information is input for each packaging container. As an image forming apparatus for recording display information, various image forming apparatuses such as an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, an inkjet image forming apparatus, and a thermal transfer image forming apparatus can be used. As the label 10, a linerless label having a base sheet and a heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface thereof is used. The label 10 on which the display information is recorded is sent out onto the stage 4 through the transport belt 3. In addition, it is desirable to form a material layer having high releasability such as a fluororesin layer on the surface of the stage 4.

  In the present invention, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus using heat fixing toner can also be used as the image forming apparatus. In this case, the image forming apparatus 2 does not have a fixing device, and sends out a label on which an unfixed toner image is formed as display information.

  Above the stage 4, the pickup device 5 is positioned so that it can be raised and lowered. In this example, a hot plate stamp type pickup device is used as the pickup device 5. Of course, various pickup devices such as a roll method can also be used. The pickup device 5 is integrally connected as a part of a transfer device configured by a robot mechanism or the like that transfers a label, and moves to a predetermined sticking position after picking up the label. In the pickup device 5, for example, a heating unit is embedded in a heat-resistant elastic rubber layer, and a heat-resistant adhesive rubber layer is formed outside the heating unit.

  The pickup device 5 descends and presses against the label 10 arranged on the stage 4. At this time, the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup device 5 is in close contact with the surface of the label 10. When closely attached, a bonding force is generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the surface of the label 10, and the label 1 is held by the pickup device 5. When an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is used, the pickup device also functions as a fixing device that thermally fixes an unfixed toner image. In this case, the pickup device is set to a temperature equal to or higher than the melting temperature of the toner, and when the pickup device comes into close contact with the label, the pickup device melts and heats the toner to fix the toner image on the label surface.

  Subsequently, the pickup device 5 is raised. At this time, since no interaction occurs between the surface of the stage 4 and the heat-sensitive adhesive layer of the label, the label 10 is maintained in a state of being held by the pickup device and is raised together with the pickup device.

  The pickup device 5 is connected to the transfer device 20 and is transferred to a predetermined sticking position by the transfer device. As the transfer device, for example, various transfer devices such as a rack and pinion type transfer device, a ball screw type transfer device, a rotary drum type transfer device, and a transfer device having a robot mechanism that performs linear movement and rotation movement are used. Can do. In the present invention, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back side of the label is heated to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature while the label is picked up and transferred to the application position. That is, in the pickup device 5, the heating means is embedded, and the surface temperature of the adhesive rubber layer in contact with the label is set to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive. Therefore, heat energy is supplied to the heat-sensitive adhesive layer by contact heating from the surface side of the label, and the temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is raised to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature during transfer, and converted to an adhesive material layer. Is done. What is important here is that when the label is held by the pickup device, the adhesive rubber layer interposed between the label and the heating element can be an adhesive rubber layer having a thickness of about several hundred μm. The thermal energy released from the heating element shifts to the label side almost instantaneously. Moreover, since the heat capacity of the label base sheet is also small, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the label can be raised to a temperature equal to or higher than the activation temperature in a short time of 1 second or less.

  The pickup device 5 is moved to above the packaging container 31 arranged on the stage 30 for sticking by the transfer device 20. During this movement, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer of the label is activated and becomes sticky.

  Subsequently, the pickup device descends and comes into pressure contact with the surface of the packaging container 31. When pressed against the surface of the packaging container 31, the label 10 is adhered to the surface of the packaging container by the adhesive force of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer. After the press contact, the pickup device 5 rises. At this time, since the adhesive force of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is much stronger than the adhesive force of the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup device 5 to the label surface, the bonding between the adhesive rubber layer and the label is released, The label 10 is adhered on the surface of the packaging container 31.

  As described above, the main steps of the labeling system of the present invention are (1) a step of recording display information on a label having a heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface, and (2) display information is recorded. A pick-up process for picking up the picked-up label using the stickiness of the adhesive rubber layer, (3) a transporting process for transporting the picked-up label to a predetermined sticking position, and (4) an adherend at the sticking position. And a step of attaching (crimping) the surface of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature by a pickup device incorporating heating means during the transfer of the label. When an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is used, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is heated while the label is transferred, and an unfixed toner image is thermally fixed on the label surface.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view showing an example of a label used in the labeling system of the present invention. FIG. 2 (A) shows a label on which display information is not recorded, and FIG. 2 (B) shows display information. Indicates the label after the is recorded. The label 10 has a base sheet (base material) 11 and a heat-sensitive adhesive layer 12 formed on the back surface (second surface), and display information is recorded on the first surface (front surface) 11 a of the base sheet 11. The As the base sheet 11, for example, a plastic film made of a resin such as polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and various papers such as kraft paper, coated paper, and art paper can be used. In particular, a polyester sheet such as white PET has durability against a temperature of about 150 ° C., and has sufficient mechanical strength even when the thickness is about several tens of μm. Therefore, it is a material suitable from the viewpoint of heat resistance and heat capacity, and is also beneficial from the viewpoint of water resistance and weather resistance. The kraft paper that has been calendered is suitable as a base sheet because of its excellent surface smoothness and low cost. Furthermore, in the present invention, since the label is held using the adhesive force of the pickup device, a highly smooth sheet material is desirable as the base sheet. For example, for the smoothness of the base sheet, a sheet material having a Sheffield value in the range of 100 to 300 can be used. Therefore, various plastic sheets and calendered kraft paper are suitable as a base sheet from the viewpoint of smoothness because they have high surface smoothness and good adhesion to the adhesive rubber layer.

  As the heat-sensitive adhesive, various heat-sensitive adhesive layers that do not generate adhesiveness at room temperature and exhibit adhesiveness (tackiness) in a heated state exceeding the activation temperature can be used. For example, olefin / acrylic acid copolymers such as ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, chlorinated polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene, and polypropylene, and olefin copolymers such as polyester, polyethylene, and polypropylene can be used. The softening point of these resins can be defined in consideration of the throughput of the labeling apparatus, the heat capacity of the base sheet, and the properties of the adherend, and can be set to 80 to 120 ° C., for example.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the pickup device, FIG. 3A shows a hot plate stamp type pickup device, and FIGS. 3B and 3C show a roller type pickup device. The hot plate stamp type pickup device has a base pad 40 having a shape substantially corresponding to the shape of the label 10 and made of a silicone sponge, for example. The base pad 40 functions as a cushion material. A heating element 41 is attached to the outer periphery of the base pad. As the heating element, various heating elements such as a planar rubber heater and a planar ceramic heater can be used.

  An adhesive rubber layer 42 is attached to the outer periphery of the heating element 41. As the adhesive rubber layer 42, an adhesive silicone rubber having a thickness of about several hundred μm can be used. As the adhesive silicone rubber, a silicone rubber impregnated with silicone oil can be used. Adhesive silicone rubber impregnated with silicone oil has both adhesiveness and releasability, and exhibits adhesiveness to the sheet surface of various sheet materials, and it can be used for ink and heat-melted toner. To exhibit releasability. Therefore, when used as a means for picking up a label on which display information is recorded, it adheres to the entire label and exhibits adhesiveness, and has a releasability for molten toner formed on the label surface. Demonstrate. The outer peripheral surface of the adhesive rubber layer 42 is a curved surface that protrudes downward. By adopting a curved surface, when pressed against the label, the label gradually contacts from the center of the label toward the outside with a time difference, so that the problem that wrinkles and bubbles are formed on the label is eliminated.

  The arm 43 is attached to the opposite side of the base pad 40. This arm is connected to the transfer device.

  A temperature sensor (not shown) such as a thermocouple or thermistor is provided on the outer periphery of the adhesive rubber layer 42 to maintain the surface temperature of the adhesive rubber layer at a predetermined temperature. The surface temperature of the adhesive rubber layer is equal to or higher than the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer when an electrophotographic image forming apparatus using a pressure fixing toner, a thermal transfer type image forming apparatus, or an ink jet type image forming apparatus is used. And a temperature not higher than the melting temperature of the recording material such as ink. As an example, when the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is 80 ° C. and the melting temperature of the recording material is 150 ° C., the temperature is set in the range of 100 to 120 ° C. On the other hand, when an electrophotographic apparatus that thermally fixes toner is used as the image forming apparatus, the surface temperature of the adhesive rubber layer is equal to or higher than the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer and exceeds the melting temperature of the toner. Set to temperature. As an example, when the activation temperature of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is 80 ° C. and the melting temperature of the toner is 120 ° C., the temperature is set in the range of 140 to 160 ° C.

  FIG. 3B shows a roller type pickup device as a cross section orthogonal to the roller axis. This pickup device has a base roller 44 formed of a hollow aluminum body serving as a base. A sheet heating element 45 is mounted on the outer periphery of the base roller 44 as a heating means. An adhesive silicone rubber layer 46 is formed on the outer periphery of the planar heating element 45. The base roller 44 is connected to a rotation mechanism and a transfer device via a connecting device (not shown). This roller-type pickup device rotates while being pressed against a label placed on the stage, and can hold the label by using an adhesive force or an adhesive force that acts when the label is in close contact with the label. In addition, the electric power supply to a heat generating body can be supplied via a brush.

  FIG. 3C shows another embodiment of the roller type pickup device. In this pickup apparatus, a halogen lamp 47 disposed at the center of the base roller 44 is used as a heating means instead of the planar heating element. The light energy emitted from the halogen lamp 47 is absorbed by the aluminum base roller 44 and converted into heat energy. The converted thermal energy is conducted to the adhesive silicone rubber layer formed on the outer peripheral surface of the base roller, and the silicone rubber layer is heated to a predetermined temperature. Therefore, the halogen lamp functions as a heating means, and the halogen lamp and the base roller function as a heating element. In this example, the light energy emitted from the halogen lamp is subjected to multiple reflection on the inner peripheral surface of the base roller and absorbed by the base roller. The heat sink can be formed by setting the thickness of the aluminum base roller 44 thick. In this case, since the heat capacity of the base roller increases, the fluctuation range of the temperature change can be reduced.

  Next, when an electrophotographic apparatus using heat fixing toner is used as the image forming apparatus, a pickup operation and toner fixing by the pickup apparatus will be described. In the present invention, as a means for picking up the label, a pickup device in which a heating element is incorporated and the outer peripheral surface is covered with an adhesive silicone rubber layer is used. Further, a label on which an unfixed toner image is formed is sent out as display information from the electrophotographic apparatus. In this case, when the pickup device is equal to or lower than the melting temperature of the toner, the toner is maintained as it is, so that no adhesive force is generated between the toner and the label surface. Therefore, when the pickup device is pressure-bonded to the label surface, the toner is transferred to the pickup device side by the action of the adhesive rubber layer. On the other hand, when the temperature of the pickup is set to a temperature exceeding the melting temperature of the toner, when the pickup device is pressed against the label surface, the resin component contained in the toner is the thermal energy supplied from the pickup device. As a result, melting starts instantaneously, and an adhesive force is generated between the melted toner and the label surface. At the same time, an adhesive force is generated between the molten toner and the silicone rubber layer of the pickup device. Accordingly, the adhesive is locally interposed between the label and the pickup device, and the label is strongly held by the pickup device. At the same time, since the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface of the label is also heated to a temperature higher than the activation temperature, an adhesive force is also generated on the back surface of the label.

  In this state, when the label is transferred to the affixing position and the label is pressure-bonded to the surface of the packaging container, an adhesive layer is interposed between the surface of the packaging container and the back surface of the label, and a strong adhesive force acts. . On the other hand, the adhesive force of the adhesive silicone rubber layer and the adhesive force by the molten toner act between the pickup device and the label surface. However, the adhesive strength of the heat-sensitive adhesive layer is much stronger than the adhesive strength of the silicone rubber layer and the adhesive strength of the molten toner. Thus, a relative difference in bonding force occurs, and when the label is pressed against the surface of the packaging container and separated, the label is adhered to the surface of the packaging container.

  Next, the action of the adhesive silicone rubber layer and the label surface on the molten toner will be described. Silicone rubber has the property of having both moldability and releasability. In other words, silicone rubber itself is a releasable material, and particularly silicone rubber impregnated with silicone oil has both a tackiness and a releasability, and has a strong tackiness on the surface of a smooth sheet material. However, it exhibits releasability for the melted toner. Accordingly, a relatively weak bonding force is formed between the silicone rubber layer and the molten toner. On the other hand, when a plastic sheet is used as the label material, when the toner and the base sheet are heated, the resin that is the main component of the toner melts, and there is an adhesive force between the melted resin and the base sheet resin of the label. And a relatively strong adhesive force is generated between the molten toner and the label surface. In particular, when the pickup device is brought into pressure contact with the label, the resin of the toner is melted and the base sheet of the label is heated to the vicinity of the softening point, so that the compatibility between the base sheet and the molten toner is further increased.

  As an example, when a polyester resin sheet (white PET) is used as the base sheet of the label and a toner mainly composed of a polyester resin material is used as the toner, the basic material system of the label and the toner match, so that the molten toner A relatively strong bonding force is generated between the label surface and the label surface. On the other hand, there is almost no compatibility between the polyester-based resin and the silicone rubber, and the bonding force between the molten toner and the silicone rubber is weak. Accordingly, when the label is pressed against the surface of the packaging container and separated, a difference in bonding force is generated, the bond between the molten toner and the silicone rubber layer is released, and the molten toner adheres to the label surface. As a result, when the label is pressed against the surface of the packaging container, the label itself adheres to the packaging container and the toner also adheres to the surface of the label. The present inventor conducted various experiments using various toners and label materials, and as a result, the unfixed toner was heated by the adhesive silicone rubber layer and fixed (adhered) to the label in the molten state. Clearly confirmed.

  FIG. 4 shows a series of operations when labeling is performed using a hot plate stamp type pickup device. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and demonstrated to the member same as the member used in FIG. The label 10 on which the display information is recorded by the image forming apparatus is sent out on the stage 4. A hot plate stamp type pickup device 5 is located above the stage. The temperature of the pickup device is set to a temperature equal to or higher than the activation temperature of the heat sensitive adhesive layer by the built-in heating element. The pickup device descends and presses against the label 10. The label 10 is in close contact with the pickup device 5 by pressure bonding. After the pressure bonding, the pickup device is raised and the pressure bonding is released. At this time, the label 10 is held by the pickup means 5. When an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is used, the molten toner is locally interposed between the label and the pickup device, and the molten toner functions as an adhesive, so that it melts in addition to the adhesive force of the pickup device. The adhesive force of the toner acts, and a relatively strong bonding force acts between the pickup device and the label.

  The pickup device is connected to the transfer device and moves to a predetermined sticking position. During the movement, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back side of the label is heated to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature. When an unfixed toner image is formed on the label, the unfixed toner image starts to be melted simultaneously with the pressure bonding, and the molten toner is fixed on the label surface while moving to the application position. At the sticking position, the pickup device descends and presses against the surface of the packaging container 31. At this time, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer on the back surface of the label is activated, and the label is adhered to the surface of the packaging container. After the pressure bonding, the pickup device is raised and the pressure bonding is released. At this point, since the bonding force between the molten toner and the label base sheet is relatively strong, the molten toner is released from the bond with the silicone rubber layer and fixed on the surface of the label base sheet. .

  FIG. 5 is a view showing a modification of the labeling apparatus according to the present invention. In this example, a label is affixed in synchronization with a packaging container conveyed by a conveyor belt using a conveyance drum (pickup / transfer apparatus) in which a transfer apparatus and a pickup apparatus are integrated. A label 51 on which predetermined display information is recorded is sent toward a conveyance drum 52 from the image forming apparatus via the conveyance belt 50. At this time, the label is arranged so that the surface on which the display information is recorded directly faces the transport drum, and the heat-sensitive adhesive layer faces away from the transport drum. In this case, a face-down type image forming apparatus in which the label is discharged with the recording surface facing downward can be used. The transport drum 52 has a cylindrical roller body 53 connected to a motor, and a silicon rubber layer 54 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the roller body 53. A heating element 55 is embedded in the silicon rubber layer 44, and an adhesive silicon rubber layer 56 is formed on the outermost periphery. The heating element 55 is connected to an external power source via a connection brush (not shown) and raises the temperature to a predetermined temperature. Further, a temperature sensor such as a thermocouple or thermistor is disposed on the outer periphery of the adhesive silicone rubber layer, and the surface of the adhesive silicone rubber layer is maintained at a predetermined temperature under the control of the controller.

  A guide roller 57 is disposed so as to face the conveyance drum 52, and the label 51 is pressed against the conveyance drum by the guide roller and held on the adhesive rubber layer 56 of the conveyance drum. Thereafter, the transfer drum 52 is moved to the sticking position by the rotational movement, and the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the back surface of the label 51 is heated and activated during that time. The guide roller 57 is connected to a displacement means such as a solenoid, and is provided with a mechanism that contacts the conveyance drum only during the time when the label is supplied and is separated from the conveyance drum during the other time period.

  A cardboard packaging container 59 arranged on the conveyor belt 58 in synchronization with the transport drum 52 is transferred to the application position. The conveyance drum 52 and the packaging container 59 are set in a state where they are slightly pressed against each other. Therefore, when the label 51 reaches the affixing position, it comes into pressure contact with the surface of the packaging container 59, the label 51 having the activated heat-sensitive adhesive layer on the back surface is pressed against the surface of the packaging container, and the label is placed on the surface of the packaging container. Glued. That is, since the adhesive force between the heat-sensitive adhesive layer exhibiting adhesiveness and the surface of the packaging container is stronger than the adhesive force acting between the label surface and the adhesive rubber layer of the transport drum, the label must be packaged. It moves to the container side and is adhered on the surface of the packaging container.

  FIG. 6 is a view showing a modification of the pickup device. In this example, a heating roller type pickup device is used to pick up and hold a label by a rolling method. The pickup roller 60 includes a roller body, a heat-resistant elastic rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof, a heating element embedded in the rubber layer, and an adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery of the rubber layer. Acts as a roller. A label 61 to be attached is arranged on the stage 62. The pickup roller 60 descends near the surface of the stage 62 and moves along the surface of the stage 62 while rotating. During the rotational movement of the pickup roller, the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup roller comes into pressure contact with the label, and the label is picked up and held by the pickup roller by the adhesive force of the adhesive rubber layer.

  The pickup 60 is connected to a transfer device such as a robot (not shown), and moves to a sticking position where the packaging container is arranged by the movement of the transfer device. And while moving to a sticking position, the heat-sensitive adhesive layer of a label is heated to the temperature exceeding the activation temperature. At the sticking position, the pickup roller comes into pressure contact with the packaging container 63 and moves while rotating along the surface of the packaging container. By this rotational movement, the activated heat-sensitive adhesive layer adheres to the surface of the packaging container 63. As described above, in the case of the rolling method, the surface of the label is sequentially contacted and stuck to the surface of the packaging container, so that there is an advantage that the problem that air bubbles and wrinkles are formed between the label and the surface of the packaging container is prevented. Achieved.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made. For example, various types of robot mechanisms can be used as the transfer device for transporting the pickup device in consideration of the arrangement of the physical distribution system. That is, it is possible to transfer the label sent from the image forming apparatus to a predetermined application position using a robot mechanism in which linear motion and rotational motion are combined. Moreover, as a position where the label of a packaging container is affixed, it is also possible to affix not only to the upper surface of a packaging container but to a lower surface and a side surface.
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a label cut to a predetermined size is used, but it is also possible to use a roll sheet wound up in a roll shape and cut it to a predetermined size using a cutter.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Computer 2 Image forming apparatus 3, 40 Conveyor belt 4, 30, 62 Stage 5, 60 Pick-up apparatus 10, 51, 61 Label 11 Base sheet 12 Heat sensitive adhesive layer 20 Transfer apparatus 31, 59, 63 Packaging container 40 Base pad 41, 45 Heating element (heating means)
42, 46 Adhesive rubber layer 43 Arm 44 Base roller 45 Planar heating element 46 Adhesive silicone rubber layer 47 Halogen lamp

Claims (12)

Display information is recorded on the first surface, the label heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed by a labeling device for affixing the adherend to a second surface opposing the first surface,
A pickup device for picking up a label on which display information is recorded;
A pickup device is integrally connected, and includes a transfer device for transferring the picked-up label to a predetermined labeling position;
The pickup device is configured as a rotatable heating roller having a heating element and a heat-resistant adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof ,
The heating roller rotates while pressing against the first surface of the label when picking up the label, and holds the label by the adhesive force generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label,
The heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the second surface of the label is supplied from the pickup device through the first surface of the label while the picked-up label is transferred to a predetermined application position. A labeling device heated to a temperature exceeding an activation temperature by thermal energy. A labeling device that affixes a label having display information recorded on a first surface and a heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on a second surface facing the first surface to an adherend,
A pickup device for picking up a label on which display information is recorded;
A pickup device is integrally connected, and includes a transfer device for transferring the picked-up label to a predetermined labeling position;
The pickup device and the transfer device are configured as a transport drum having a heating element and an adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof and having heat resistance ,
When the label is picked up, the first surface of the transported label and the adhesive rubber layer of the transport drum are pressed against each other, and the label is formed between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label. Held on the transfer drum by force ,
The heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the second surface of the label is transferred from the transport drum through the first surface of the label while the picked-up label is transferred to a predetermined application position by rotation of the transport drum. The labeling apparatus is heated to a temperature exceeding the activation temperature by the thermal energy supplied in the first step .   3. The labeling device according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive rubber layer is made of an adhesive silicone rubber. 4. The labeling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein display information formed on the first surface of the label is obtained by a thermal transfer type image forming apparatus, an ink jet type image forming apparatus, or an electrophotographic type image forming apparatus. A labeling device, characterized in that it is formed. 5. The labeling apparatus according to claim 4, wherein an information input device or a communication unit is connected to the image forming apparatus, and display information formed on the first surface of the label is formed for each label. Labeling device. Display information is recorded on the first surface, the label heat-sensitive adhesive layer is formed by a labeling system to be attached to an adherend to a second surface opposing the first surface,
An electrophotographic image forming apparatus that forms display information on a first surface of the label and sends out a label in which the display information is formed as an unfixed toner image;
A pickup device that picks up a label that is sent from the image forming apparatus and has an unfixed toner image formed thereon, and thermally fixes the unfixed toner image to the label ;
The pickup device is connected, and includes a transfer device that transfers the picked up label to a predetermined labeling position,
The pickup device has a heating element and a heat-resistant adhesive rubber layer provided on the outer periphery thereof ,
When the label is picked up, the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup device is pressed against the first surface of the label, and the label is picked up by the adhesive force generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label. is held,
While the picked-up label is transferred to a predetermined application position, the unfixed toner image is heat-fixed on the first surface of the label by the heat energy supplied from the pickup device, and the second label A labeling system, wherein the heat-sensitive adhesive layer formed on the surface is heated to a temperature exceeding an activation temperature by thermal energy supplied from the pickup device via the first surface of the label.   7. The labeling system according to claim 6, wherein the adhesive rubber layer of the pickup device is made of an adhesive silicone rubber. In the labeling system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the pickup device, rotating with a cylindrical base roller, and a heating element provided on the outer periphery of the base roller and a provided on the outer periphery of the heating element adhesive rubber layer Configured as a possible heating roller,
The heating roller rotates while pressing against the first surface of the label when picking up the label, and holds the label by the adhesive force generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label. A characteristic labeling system. The labeling system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the pickup device includes a cylindrical base roller, an adhesive rubber layer formed on an outer periphery of the base roller, and a halogen lamp disposed in an inner space of the base roller. Configured as a heating roller having
The heating roller rotates while pressing against the first surface of the label when picking up the label, and holds the label by the adhesive force generated between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label. A characteristic labeling system. 8. The labeling system according to claim 6, wherein the transfer device and the pickup device are integrally formed as a transport drum connected to a rotation drive device, and the transport drum is provided on a heating element and an outer periphery thereof. Including an adhesive rubber layer,
When the label delivered from the image forming apparatus is picked up , the first surface of the label and the adhesive rubber layer of the transport drum are in pressure contact with each other, and the space between the adhesive rubber layer and the first surface of the label is between. A labeling system which is held on a conveyance drum by an adhesive force generated in the above . The labeling system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the pickup device is in the form of a hot plate stamp having a heating element and an adhesive rubber layer provided outside the heating element ,
By pressing the adhesive rubber layer of the hot plate stamp against the first surface of the label sent out from the image forming apparatus and placed on the stage, the label is adhered to the adhesive rubber layer and the first of the label. A labeling system characterized by being picked up by an adhesive force generated between the surface and the surface. 12. The labeling system according to claim 1, wherein the base sheet of the label is made of a plastic sheet, and the resin material of the toner and the resin material of the base sheet are made of the same resin material. Labeling system characterized by being.

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