System and method for printing and applying labels

Abstract

A system (10) configured to print a label (PL, LL) and apply the label to an article includes a label printer (186) configured to print an image on the label in a printing orientation, a label dispenser (2) configured to dispense the printed label, a label applicator (3) configured to apply the dispensed label to the article in an application orientation, and a controller (18) configured to control the label dispenser (2) and the label applicator (3). And a controller (50) configured to determine a printing orientation and an application orientation in accordance with an indication of image quality associated with the label.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for applying labels to articles, and more particularly to a system for printing, dispensing, and applying labels to articles (such as articles already stacked on a pallet) and a method of operating the same. Background Art

[0002] Articles are often stacked on pallets for transportation. Such articles are typically secured to each other and / or to the pallet by stretch wrapping, strapping, or other securing means. The term "pallet" is used herein to refer to a complete pallet ready for shipment, which typically includes: a wooden (or plastic) pallet, the stacked articles, and (optionally) securing means. An empty pallet may be referred to as a "pallet base".

[0003] Labels are applied to pallets ready for shipment so that information associated with the contents of the pallet or the destination to which the pallet is to be shipped (among other things) can be provided on the pallet in an easily accessible format. This enables the label and the information stored on the label to be read at various locations after the label is applied. For example, when the pallet is loaded onto a delivery vehicle, when the pallet is transferred to another delivery vehicle, or when the pallet reaches its final destination, the information can be read. The information contained in the label can be read multiple times during the transportation of the pallet. To facilitate and effectively read the information contained in the label, a standard format can be used. There are industry standards that provide guidance on the format and information contained on such labels, one such industry standard being the GS1 Logic Label Guide. Industrial standard label formats allow the use of multiple modes of transportation (including road, rail, air, and sea) to transport goods and operate using a common label format.

[0004] Some information can be encoded on the label in text format, while other information can be encoded on the label in barcode format. The barcode format can allow the encoding of identity information in a machine-readable manner. It should be understood that there may be multiple barcodes in the label. For example, in the GS1 label format, the first barcode may include information related to the contents of the pallet. The second barcode may contain a unique identification number that includes information unique to a particular pallet. That is, no two pallets have the same second type of barcode, such that each individual pallet marked according to the GS1 standard can be uniquely identified.

[0005] In order to successfully read the information encoded within a barcode, the barcode must be printed accurately and the label must be applied accurately to the pallet. Additionally, given the nature of barcodes, a single missing vertical line can cause the barcode to become unreadable. Perhaps more perilously, a single missing printed line within the barcode can cause the barcode to encode information different from the expected information. Of course, it should be understood that any of these outcomes is undesirable. Thus, it is important that within the label printing and application device, robust quality control measures are provided and also a high level of confidence is provided that the label applied to the product accurately reflects the information intended to be contained within the label.

[0006] The pallets to be labeled can take various forms. Ideally, the pallets will stack with standardized boxes to a standard permitted height, with all sides vertically aligned. The boxes are typically secured to the pallet base by stretch wrapping, strapping, or other securing means. In such an arrangement, the label can be placed at a standard location (e.g., between 400 mm and 800 mm from the floor and at least 50 mm from the corner). However, not all pallets conform to such standard dimensions. For example, the pallet may be incomplete and thus may be too short to accommodate the label in the standard location. Alternatively, the side surfaces of the pallet may not be suitable for accommodating the label (e.g., it can be inclined or irregular). Thus, while traditional pallet label applicators can be configured to apply labels to standard pallets, these label applicators may not be able to correctly apply the label to non-standard pallets, or may not be able to apply the label adequately to the pallet, or may signal for human intervention to manually apply the label.

[0007] Traditional label applicators typically use compressed air to "blow" the label onto the label applicator. This can reduce the risk that the label will not be correctly aligned or grasped by the label applicator.

[0008] Traditional label applicators use a manipulator to advance the label towards the labeling target (e.g., the pallet). Such a manipulator can be pneumatic, hydraulic, or motor-driven and is typically arranged to move the applicator head (or pad) along a main axis (i.e., towards and away from the pallet) to apply the label to the front face of the pallet. In some cases, the applicator head can further be capable of rotating about a vertically aligned axis to allow labeling on the side of the pallet. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure relates to improvements to label applicators. An object of this disclosure is to provide a system for labeling that addresses one or more problems associated with known label applicators, whether recognized herein or otherwise.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system configured to print a label and apply the label to an item. The system includes a controller configured to determine data indicative of the image quality of an image associated with the label, a label printer configured to print the image on the label in a printing orientation, a label dispenser configured to dispense the printed label, and a label applicator configured to apply the dispensed label to the item in an application orientation. The printing orientation and the application orientation depend on the data indicative of the image quality.

[0011] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system configured to print a label and apply the label to an item. The system includes a label printer configured to print an image on the label in a printing orientation, a label dispenser configured to dispense the printed label, a label applicator configured to apply the dispensed label to the item in an application orientation, and a controller configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation based on an indication of the image quality associated with the label.

[0012] Determining the printing orientation may include selecting between a first printing orientation and a second printing orientation. Determining the application orientation may include selecting between a first application orientation and a second application orientation.

[0013] The controller of the first aspect or the second aspect may be configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation such that an image component within the image has a predetermined orientation when applied to the item.

[0014] Certain problems associated with poor print quality can be overcome by rotating the label image prior to printing. A general purpose label applicator and label applicator pad allow the label to be rotated prior to application to compensate for image rotation that may be introduced during the label printing process. In this way, the measure of the printed label quality can be increased and production interruptions due to label printing quality problems can be reduced. Accordingly, by making the printing orientation and the application orientation depend on an indication of the image quality (e.g., data indicative of the image quality), the identified or predicted image defects can be mitigated or compensated for.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system configured to print a label and apply the label to an item. The system includes: a label printer configured to print an image including an image component on the label along a printing orientation selected from a first printing orientation and a second printing orientation; a label dispenser configured to dispense the printed label; a label applicator configured to apply the dispensed label to the item along an application orientation selected from a first application orientation and a second application orientation; and a controller configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation such that the image component has a predetermined orientation when applied to the item.

[0016] By ensuring that an image component (e.g., a barcode) has a predetermined orientation, difficulties associated with reading an image by a scanner (e.g., a barcode scanner) can be reduced. For example, the barcode can be aligned in an expected (e.g., horizontal) orientation after application, regardless of whether the label has a portrait or landscape orientation. This also allows for greater flexibility in printers and applicators, as image defects associated with a particular printing orientation can be minimized.

[0017] The following features can be applied to any one of the first, second, or third aspects described above.

[0018] An image or an image component within an image can have a predetermined orientation when applied to an item, regardless of the application orientation.

[0019] The controller can be configured to determine a printing orientation and an application orientation based on an indication of the image quality associated with the label.

[0020] The controller can be configured to determine data indicative of the image quality based on an indication of the image quality.

[0021] The controller can be configured to determine data indicative of the image quality associated with the label and determine a printing orientation and an application orientation based on the data indicative of the image quality.

[0022] The application orientation refers to the orientation of the label when applied to an item.

[0023] Determining the printing orientation can include selecting between a first printing orientation and a second printing orientation. Determining the application orientation can include selecting between a first application orientation and a second application orientation.

[0024] The label applicator is capable of adjusting the orientation of the label relative to the item by rotating the label about a label orientation axis. The label orientation axis can be perpendicular to the plane of the label. The label applicator can further be capable of applying the label to the item in the application orientation.

[0025] The system can include a single device or an integration of collaborative component parts.

[0026] The system can further include a label applicator pad configured to receive and support the dispensed label. The label applicator can be connected to the label applicator pad.

[0027] The label applicator pad can be configured to receive the dispensed label in a dispensing orientation.

[0028] The label applicator can be configured to manipulate the label applicator pad relative to the item to which the label is to be applied so as to apply the label to the item in the application orientation. Adjusting the orientation of the label relative to the item can include rotating the label. Adjusting the orientation of the label relative to the item can include holding the label in the dispensing orientation.

[0029] The label applicator is operable to rotate the label applicator pad relative to the article to apply the label in a first application orientation or a second application orientation.

[0030] The controller can be configured to determine the application orientation and the printing orientation based on data indicative of image quality.

[0031] By determining the printing orientation based on data indicative of image quality, the likelihood of printing a defective image can be reduced. Once printed, the label can be applied in the determined application orientation. In this way, any image rotation applied prior to printing can be compensated for during application. For example, a 90-degree clockwise rotation can be applied to the image prior to printing on the label, and a 90-degree counterclockwise rotation can be applied to the printed label prior to application, in order to ensure that the applied label (and importantly, the image printed on the label) is in the desired orientation on the article.

[0032] The application orientation can be based on the printing orientation, which in turn can be based on an indication of print quality or data indicative of print quality.

[0033] Printing in the determined printing orientation can be performed before or after determining the application orientation.

[0034] In some cases, the initial printing step can be performed in a first (i.e., non-printing) orientation. Then, the label printed in the initial printing step can be discarded (e.g., if it is determined that the image quality is insufficient) before printing another label in a second printing orientation.

[0035] The system is capable of adjusting the orientation of the image to be printed on the label. The system is capable of adjusting the orientation of the image components of the image to be printed on the label.

[0036] The controller can be configured to adjust the image and provide print instructions to the printer to print the image in the printing orientation. Adjusting the image can include rotating one or more image components and / or rearranging one or more image components.

[0037] The controller can be configured to receive an indication of image quality from at least one of: an image sensor, a barcode scanner, a barcode verifier, a controller associated with the printer, an indication of image quality including data indicative of expected image quality, and user input.

[0038] User input can include an indication that the printed image quality is insufficient (based on a user's visual inspection, or a signal received by the user (e.g., from a barcode scanner or verifier)).

[0039] In such a configuration, a user may select an alternative operating mode (e.g., a rotation label mode) via a user interface associated with the system's controller. Alternatively, the user may simply indicate that the image quality is insufficient (e.g., by selecting a "poor quality" option). Upon receiving the indication, the controller may select an appropriate printing orientation and an application orientation.

[0040] When the printing orientation is the first printing orientation, the application orientation may be the first application orientation. When the printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the application orientation may be the second application orientation. That is, each printing orientation may have a corresponding application orientation.

[0041] For example, if the determined printing orientation is the first printing orientation, the determined application orientation may be the first application orientation. Conversely, if the determined printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the determined application orientation may be the second application orientation.

[0042] In an example embodiment, the first application orientation may be a longitudinal orientation, and the second application orientation may be a transverse orientation. It should be understood that a given label having a rectangular shape may be applied in either orientation. However, if the label is printed with the intention of being applied in one orientation, but is subsequently applied in another orientation, the readability of the printed content may be impaired (e.g., if a barcode is included and is incorrectly oriented due to an incorrect selection of the application orientation).

[0043] The controller may be configured to determine the application orientation and the printing orientation based on the data indicating the image quality. The controller may also be configured to cause the printer to print the label in the printing orientation. The controller may also be configured to cause the label applicator to apply the label in the determined application orientation.

[0044] The controller may also be configured to control one or more of a label printer, a label dispenser, a label applicator, and a label applicator pad.

[0045] The image printed on the label may include a barcode. The barcode may include an image component. The data indicating the image quality may include data indicating the barcode quality. The indication of the image quality may include an indication of the barcode quality.

[0046] The data indicating the barcode quality may include an indication of the barcode readability. The data indicating the barcode quality may include determining whether the barcode can be read. The data indicating the barcode quality may include a binary indication (i.e., "pass" or "fail").

[0047] The barcode may include a plurality of bars that are aligned with the label dispensing direction when the printing orientation is the first printing orientation.

[0048] The label dispensing direction can indicate the direction in which the label dispenser dispenses labels. For example, the label can move away from the peeling beak of the label dispenser in the label dispensing direction.

[0049] The dispensing orientation can be the orientation that provides the label once the label has been dispensed by moving in the dispensing direction.

[0050] When the printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the bar can be orthogonal to the label dispensing direction.

[0051] The application direction can be the dispensing orientation or the rotation orientation. The rotation orientation can be rotated relative to the dispensing orientation. The rotation orientation can be rotated approximately 90 degrees relative to the dispensing orientation.

[0052] The application orientation can be the first rotation orientation or the second rotation orientation. In some embodiments, the label can be rotated in each case, where a determination is made between a first rotation amount and a second rotation amount.

[0053] If the print quality (either the actual print quality based on inspection of the printed label or the expected print quality based on the expected printer performance) is sufficient, the printing orientation can be the first (e.g., "normal") printing orientation with a fence-style barcode. In this case, the application orientation can be the first (e.g., "normal") application orientation.

[0054] Conversely, if the print quality is insufficient (or expected to be insufficient), the printing orientation can be the second (e.g., "rotated") printing orientation with a stepped barcode. The second printing orientation can be rotated approximately 90 degrees relative to the first printing orientation. In this case, the application orientation can be the second (e.g., "rotated") application orientation.

[0055] If the determined orientation is the first application orientation, applying the printed label in the determined application orientation can include: applying the label in the orientation in which it is received; and if the determined orientation is the second application orientation, rotating (or adjusting) the label after it is received and applying the label in the rotated orientation.

[0056] Conversely, if the determined orientation is the first application orientation, the label applicator can be configured to rotate the label after it is received and apply the label in the rotated orientation, and vice versa. That is, in some cases, label rotation can be the default, depending on the printer and applicator configuration, and depending on the specific labeling requirements of the item to be labeled.

[0057] The system can also include a sensor configured to generate sensor data indicative of the characteristics of the image printed on the label.

[0058] The sensor can be associated with a label applicator. The sensor can be mounted to a label applicator pad support. The label applicator pad can be configured to rotate relative to the sensor.

[0059] The sensor can be associated with the label applicator pad. The sensor can be disposed within the label applicator pad.

[0060] Data indicative of image quality can be determined based on sensor data.

[0061] Data indicative of image quality can include data indicative of the quality of an image printed on a label. Determining data indicative of image quality can include obtaining sensor data indicative of characteristics of an image printed on a label.

[0062] Determining data indicative of image quality can include, for example, obtaining an image of a printed label using a sensor. The sensor can include an image capture device (e.g., a scanner or a camera).

[0063] The sensor can include a scanner. The scanner can include a linear sensor array. The linear sensor array can include a barcode scanner. The linear sensor array can include a 1D array.

[0064] The system can be configured to: print a first label in a first print orientation; generate sensor data indicative of characteristics of the image printed on the first label; determine data indicative of image quality based on the sensor data; and if the data representative of image quality meets a predetermined print criterion: determine that the print orientation is the first print orientation and the application orientation is the first application orientation; and apply the printed label in the first application orientation.

[0065] Data indicative of image quality can include a pass / fail determination. When the data indicative of image quality meets a predetermined print criterion, the image can be considered "passed".

[0066] If the data indicative of image quality does not meet a predetermined print criterion, the system can be configured to: discard the first printed label; print a second label in the second print orientation; determine that the print orientation is the second print orientation and the application orientation is the second application orientation; and apply the second printed label in the second application orientation.

[0067] When the data indicative of image quality does not meet a predetermined print criterion, the image can be considered "failed".

[0068] Data indicative of image quality can include data indicative of expected image quality. The indication of image quality can include data indicative of expected image quality.

[0069] Data indicating the image quality may include data indicating the expected quality of the image to be printed on the label.

[0070] Data indicating the expected image quality may be generated based on data indicating the characteristics of the printer.

[0071] Determining the data indicating the image quality may include obtaining data indicating the characteristics of the printer. The characteristics of the printer may include print head characteristics. The print head characteristics may include data indicating the state of the print elements (e.g., a bad pixel map). The data representing the state of the print elements may include data indicating the state of each of the plurality of print elements within the print head of the printer.

[0072] If the data indicating the expected image quality meets a predetermined expected standard, the system may be configured to print a first label in a first print orientation.

[0073] Once the label has been printed in the first print orientation, the label may be applied in an assigned orientation.

[0074] Additionally, once the label has been printed in the first print orientation (e.g., after determining that the expected image quality meets the predetermined expected standard), the printed label may be scanned, and if the (scanned) quality is sufficient (i.e., the data indicating the image quality based on the sensor data meets the predetermined printed image standard), the label may be applied in the assigned orientation. Alternatively, if the (scanned) quality is insufficient, the label may be discarded and a second label may be printed in a second print orientation before being applied in a second application orientation.

[0075] If the data indicating the expected image quality does not meet the predetermined expected standard, the system may be configured to print the first label in a second print orientation.

[0076] Once the label has been printed in the second print orientation, the label may be applied in the second application orientation. That is, in response to an expected failure of the image quality, the first label may be printed in the second print orientation without first printing the label in the first print orientation.

[0077] The system may include a sensor configured to generate sensor data indicating the characteristics of the label applied to an item.

[0078] The sensor may be the same sensor used to generate sensor data indicating the characteristics of the image printed on the label. The sensor may be a barcode scanner.

[0079] The system may be configured to obtain data indicating the characteristics of the label applied to an item in either the first application orientation or the second application orientation.

[0080] That is, since the image printed on the label can be rotated before being printed, the image (e.g., barcode) can be read by a scanner (e.g., barcode scanner) after being applied, regardless of the application orientation, because in any application orientation, the image will have the same orientation. That is, the controller can be a controller configured to determine the print orientation and the application orientation such that the image component (e.g., barcode) has a predetermined orientation (e.g., horizontal) when applied to the article.

[0081] In the case where the sensor is configured to rotate with the label applicator pad, if the application orientation is the second application orientation, the controller can be configured to rotate the label applicator pad after applying the label, and after rotating the label applicator pad, control the sensor to generate sensor data indicating the characteristics of the label applied to the article. If the application orientation is the first application orientation, the controller can be configured to control the sensor to generate sensor data indicating the characteristics of the label applied to the article when the label applicator pad is in the first application orientation.

[0082] If the sensor data indicating the characteristics of the label applied to the article does not meet a predetermined application standard, and if the application orientation is the first application orientation, the system can be configured to: print a second printed label in a second print orientation; determine that the application orientation is the second application orientation; and apply the second printed label in the second application orientation.

[0083] The label applicator can be configured to manipulate the label in two dimensions relative to the article to which the label is to be applied.

[0084] The label applicator can include a label applicator arm.

[0085] The label applicator can be configured to manipulate the label in three dimensions relative to the article to which the label is to be applied.

[0086] The label applicator can include: a first actuator configured to move the label towards and away from the article; a second actuator configured to move the label in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the article; and a third actuator configured to rotate the label applicator pad about a vertical axis.

[0087] The first actuator can include a linear actuator. The second actuator can include a linear actuator. The third actuator can include a rotary actuator.

[0088] The label applicator can be a robotic arm. The robotic arm can include a 6-axis robotic arm.

[0089] The system may further include a motion controller configured to control the position of the label applicator pad. The motion controller may be configured to receive the outputs of a plurality of position sensors, each position sensor being associated with a respective part of the label applicator; and to control the position of the label applicator pad based on the received outputs.

[0090] The motion controller may be configured to cause the label applicator pad to apply a label to an item. The motion controller may be configured to cause the label applicator pad to receive a label from a label dispenser.

[0091] The present invention also provides a method of operating a system according to the first aspect.

[0092] A first method of applying a label to an item is also provided. The method includes: determining data indicative of the image quality of an image associated with the label; printing the image on the label in a printing orientation; dispensing the printed label; and applying the label to the item in an application orientation. The printing orientation and the application orientation depend on the data indicative of the image quality.

[0093] A second method of applying a label to an item is also provided. The second method includes: determining a printing orientation; printing an image on the label in the printing orientation; dispensing the printed label; determining an application orientation; and applying the label to the item in the application orientation. The printing orientation and the application orientation are determined according to an indication of the image quality associated with the label.

[0094] The method may include determining data indicative of the image quality of an image associated with the label, and determining the printing orientation and the application orientation according to the data indicative of the image quality.

[0095] Certain problems associated with poor print quality can be overcome by rotating the label image prior to printing. A general purpose label applicator and label applicator pad allow the label to be rotated prior to application to compensate for image rotation that may occur during the label printing process. In this way, the measure of the printed label quality can be increased and production interruptions due to label print quality problems can be reduced. Thus, by making the printing orientation and the application orientation depend on the data indicative of the image quality, the identified or predicted image defects can be mitigated or compensated for.

[0096] The following features may be applied to either the first method or the second method.

[0097] The method may include determining the printing orientation and the application orientation such that an image component within the image has a predetermined orientation when applied to the item.

[0098] A first method of applying a label to an item is also provided. The method includes: determining a printing orientation, the determining including selecting a printing orientation from a first printing orientation and a second printing orientation; printing an image including an image component on the label in the printing orientation; allocating the printed label; determining an application orientation, the determining including selecting from a first application orientation and a second application orientation; and applying the label to the item in the application orientation. The printing orientation and the application orientation are determined such that the image component has a predetermined orientation when applied to the item.

[0099] The following features may be applied to any of the first to third methods.

[0100] The image component within the image may have a predetermined orientation when applied to the item, regardless of the application orientation.

[0101] The method may further include determining data indicative of image quality based on an indication of image quality.

[0102] The application orientation refers to the orientation of the label when applied to the item.

[0103] The printing orientation and the application orientation may be determined based on an indication of the image quality associated with the label.

[0104] The method may further include determining data indicative of the image quality associated with the label, and determining the printing orientation and the application orientation based on the data indicative of image quality.

[0105] The determination of the data indicative of image quality may be performed before or after printing the label.

[0106] The determination of the data indicative of image quality may be performed before and after printing. For example, a first determination may be made based on an expected image quality (e.g., based on expected printer performance) before printing, and if it is decided to continue printing based on the first determination, a second determination may be made based on the actual image quality (e.g., by scanning the printed image with a sensor).

[0107] The determination of the printing orientation may be a default determination. If a subsequent process results in a determination of poor image quality, a new determination of the printing orientation (e.g., rotation orientation) may be made.

[0108] When the printing orientation is the first printing orientation, the application orientation may be the first application orientation. When the printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the application orientation may be the second application orientation.

[0109] The method may include: printing a first label in a first printing orientation; generating sensor data indicative of characteristics of an image printed on the first label; determining data indicative of image quality based on the sensor data; and if the data representing image quality meets a predetermined printing criterion: determining that the printing orientation is the first printing orientation and the applying orientation is the first applying orientation; and applying the printed label in the first applying orientation.

[0110] The method may further include: if the data indicative of image quality does not meet the predetermined printing criterion, discarding the first printed label; printing a second label in the second printing orientation; determining that the printing orientation is the second printing orientation and the applying orientation is the second applying orientation; and applying the second printed label in the second applying orientation.

[0111] Features described in the context of the above system may be applied to the above method.

[0112] The above method may be implemented in any convenient form. Accordingly, the present invention also provides a computer program executable by a controller of a system so as to control the system in the above manner. Such a computer program may be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a non-tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium. Description of the Drawings

[0113] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0114] Figure 1 is a side view of a tray labeling device for applying labels to a tray;

[0115] Figure 2 is Figure 1 an alternative perspective view of the tray labeling device;

[0116] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a schematic view of a labeling machine forming part of the tray labeling device;

[0117] Figure 4 is a plan view of a label applicator forming part of the tray labeling device, with the label dispenser omitted;

[0118] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a part of the label applicator;

[0119] Figure 6a and 6b are plan views of a part of the label applicator in different configurations;

[0120] Figure 7a and 7b are perspective views of the label applicator pad;

[0121] Figure 8a and 8b Front views of label applicator pads of label applicators that are longitudinal and transverse configuration label applicators, respectively;

[0122] Figures 9a to 9d Perspective view of a label applicator that applies labels to various tray surfaces;

[0123] Figure 10 is for constructing Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a control system of a labeling machine that is part of a tray labeling device;

[0124] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a control process executed by the control system during operation of the tray labeling device; and

[0125] Figure 12 and 13 are schematic diagrams of longitudinal and transverse label layouts, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0126] Figure 1 and Figure 2 illustrate a tray labeling device 1, which includes a labeling machine 2 and a label applicator 3 for applying labels to trays. The tray labeling device 1 is mounted to a support structure 4, and the support structure 4 raises the labeling device 1 off the ground to a desired operating height such that the applicator 3 can apply labels to trays positioned on a conveyor (not shown). A housing 5 extending above the support structure 4 encloses the applicator 3 when the applicator 3 is in a retracted configuration ( Figure 1 ). The housing 5 also encloses the labeling machine 2. The tray labeling device may be referred to as a system or a tray labeling system.

[0127] The labeling machine 2 may include a labeling machine of the type described in WO 2010 / 018368, WO 2014 / 072727, and / or WO2015 / 059447, shown in more detail in Figure 3 . The labeling machine includes a label web material that is disposed on a label unwind reel 6 and is conveyed through a labeling station to a label rewind reel 8.

[0128] The labeling machine 2 includes a unwind reel support 160 and a windup reel support 162. The unwind reel support 160 and the windup reel support 162 are both mounted to rotate about respective axes A and B. The axes A and B are shown as being substantially parallel to each other; however, in some embodiments, this may not be the case. The windup reel is connected to a motor 164 such that the motor 164 can be powered to rotate the windup reel 162 about the axis B. The motor 164 is connected to the windup reel support 162 via a belt (not shown). The unwind reel 6 of the label stock can be mounted to the unwind reel support 160 such that the unwind reel support 160 supports the unwind reel 6 and the unwind reel 6 rotates together with the unwind reel support 160.

[0129] As can be seen in Figure 3 In use, the label stock 168 extends between the unwind reel support 160 (and in particular the unwind reel 6 mounted to the unwind reel support 160) and the windup reel support 162. A tape path 170 is defined between the unwind reel support 160 and the windup reel support 162 by various components, and in use, the label stock is conveyed along the tape path 170. A first roller, a second roller, and a third roller (172, 174, and 176) define the tape path 170 between the unwind reel support 160 and the windup reel support 162. It will be understood that in other embodiments of the labeling machine, components other than rollers may be used to define the tape path 170. Suitable components may be those that apply only a small frictional force to the label stock when the label stock contacts it.

[0130] The tape path 170 is also defined by a floating swing arm 178 and a label stripping beak 180. The floating swing arm 178 includes a floating swing arm roller 182 mounted at one end of the floating swing arm 178.

[0131] In use, the label stock 168 extends along the tape path 170 from the unwind reel support 160 (and in particular from the unwind reel 6) around the first roller 172, around the floating swing arm roller 182, around the second roller 174, around the label stripping beak 180, around the third roller 176, and is wound onto the windup reel support to form the windup reel 8.

[0132] The floating swing arm 178 is a movable element that can rotate about the axis A. That is, the axis of rotation of the floating swing arm 178 is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the unwind reel support 160 (and the unwind reel 6).

[0133] The labeling machine includes a printer 186. The printer in this case is a thermal transfer printer. However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the labeling machine according to the present invention may include any suitable type of printer, such as a thermal printer. The printer 186 includes a ribbon unwind reel support 188, a ribbon wind reel support 190, a print head 192, and a ribbon guiding member 194. In use, the reel of the printer ribbon is mounted to the ribbon unwind reel support 188 such that the reel of the printer ribbon constitutes an unwind reel 196 of the printer ribbon supported by the ribbon unwind reel support 188.

[0134] In use, the printing ribbon from the unwind reel 196 passes along a printing ribbon path past the print head 192 and is wound onto the ribbon wind reel support 190 to form a wind reel 198. To convey the printing ribbon from the ribbon unwind reel support 188 to the ribbon wind reel support 190, at least the ribbon wind reel support 190 is connected to a motor such that the motor can rotate the ribbon wind reel support 190.

[0135] Since Figure 3 the printer 186 shown in is a thermal transfer printer, the printing ribbon is heat-sensitive such that when the printing ribbon passes the print head 192, at least a portion of the print head 192 can be selectively energized to heat a desired portion of the printing ribbon and transfer ink from that portion of the printing ribbon to an adjacent substrate. In this case, the adjacent substrate is a label forming part of the label web 168. During operation of the printer 186, the guiding member 194 includes guide rollers that assist in guiding the printing ribbon as it is conveyed from the ribbon unwind reel support 188 to the ribbon wind reel support 190.

[0136] The label web includes a web tape and a plurality of labels attached to the web tape. The labels attached to the web tape are separable from the web tape. The label peeling beak 180 is configured such that during operation, when the label web 168 is conveyed past the label peeling beak 180 along the web tape path 170, the label peeling beak 180 separates the passing label from the web tape. The separated label can then be received by the label applicator pad 24. This process can be referred to as a dispensing operation. The labeling machine 2 can be referred to as a label dispenser. The orientation of the label when it is separated from the web tape can be referred to as the dispensing orientation.

[0137] Before dispensing the label, the printer 186 can print a desired image on the label.

[0138] During operation of the labeling machine, the motor 164 is energized to rotate the take-up reel support 8 about its axis B. When this is done, the take-up reel support 8 winds the label web stock 168 onto the take-up reel support 8 to form a take-up reel. The take-up reel 8 will include a wound strip of label web stock. Any labels separated from the wound strip of label web stock when passing by the label stripping beak 180 will not form part of the take-up reel.

[0139] Winding the label web stock 168 (and in particular the wound strip of label web stock) onto the take-up reel support 8 will cause the label web stock 168 to move along the strip path 170 in the direction indicated by arrow C ( Figure 3 ). Winding the wound strip of label web stock onto the take-up reel support 8 causes the label web stock to unwind from the unwind reel 6 supported by the unwind reel support 160.

[0140] Referring again to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the housing 5 is configured to cover all sides of the labeling machine 2 and the label applicator 3 (although transparent portions may be included). In some arrangements, a heater may be provided within the housing to maintain a certain temperature within the housing 5 to suit the operating requirements, depending on the type of printing and labels used.

[0141] In some arrangements, the housing may be entirely omitted. Additionally, the device 1 may be distributed. That is, the device 1 may include separate elements (e.g., the labeling machine 2 and the label applicator 3) that cooperate to perform the methods described herein. That is, the term "device" should not be construed to mean a single physically connected device, but rather a system that includes the components necessary to perform the described functions.

[0142] The labeling machine may be controlled by a labeling machine controller 52 (as shown in Figure 10 ), and the labeling machine controller 52 is configured to control the printing and dispensing of labels, as described in more detail below.

[0143] A pair of doors 11 are provided on the sides of the housing 5 to allow access to the labeling machine 2, for example for maintenance and / or replenishment of labels or printer ribbons. An access port 9 is provided on the front of the housing 5 to allow the applicator 3 to extend from the housing 5 towards the tray during a label application operation (described in more detail below). The port 9 can be reconfigured between an open configuration and a closed configuration. For example, the port 9 can be configured to slide between the open configuration and the closed configuration. The port 9 can be actuated by any suitable linear actuator known in the art (e.g., a rack and pinion, a piston assembly, etc.).

[0144] Figure 4 A top view of the label applicator 3 is schematically shown, where, for clarity, the labeling machine 2 is omitted and only the bottom of the housing 5 is included.

[0145] The components of the label applicator 3 are fixed to the housing 5 and the support 4 ( Figure 4 not shown in the figure), thereby providing a fixed reference. The applicator 3 includes a first linear actuator 20, a second linear actuator 21, a first rotary actuator 22, a second rotary actuator 23, and a label applicator pad 24. The first linear actuator 20 is connected between the housing 5 and the second linear actuator 21. The second linear actuator 21 is connected between the first linear actuator 20 and the first rotary actuator 22. The first rotary actuator 22 is connected between the second linear actuator 21 and the second rotary actuator 23. The second rotary actuator 23 is connected between the first rotary actuator 22 and the label applicator pad 24.

[0146] The first linear actuator 20 and the second linear actuator 21 can each be any suitable form of actuator, such as a rodless cylinder or a guided linear pneumatic cylinder. The first rotary actuator 22 can be any suitable form of rotary actuator, such as a three-position rotary pneumatic actuator. The actuators can be operated by compressed air supplied through a pipe extending from the housing 5. However, it should be understood that alternative actuators can be provided as needed.

[0147] The first linear actuator 20 is configured to move the second linear actuator 21, the rotary actuators 22, 23, and the label applicator pad 24 relative to the housing 5 in the x direction (see Figure 4 the axis in the figure). The second linear actuator 21 is configured to move the rotary actuators 22, 23, and the label applicator pad 24 relative to the housing 5 (and the first linear actuator 20) in the y direction (see Figure 4 the axis in the figure). The first rotary actuator 22 is configured to rotate the label applicator pad 24 relative to the housing 5 about a label placement axis P parallel to the z direction (see Figure 2 ). The label placement axis P can be referred to as the vertical axis.

[0148] The second rotary actuator 23 is configured to rotate the label applicator pad 24 relative to the housing 5 about a label orientation axis L, which is aligned with the x-axis in the Figure 4 configuration shown (but changes according to the degree of rotation about the axis P). The label orientation axis L is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the label. In the example shown, the label orientation axis L passes through the center of the label applicator pad 24.

[0149] In this way, the label applicator 3 is configured to allow the label applicator pad 24 to be positioned to receive a label from a label dispenser (i.e., the labeling machine 2), and to move the label applicator pad 24 (and the supported label) so that the label is applied to an article (e.g., an article placed on the tray 12).

[0150] Figure 5More particularly shows the components connected between the second linear actuator 21 and the applicator pad 24, and also shows the vertically aligned label placement axis P and the label orientation axis L.

[0151] The label applicator 3 further includes a barcode scanner 26 configured to read barcodes in accordance with the GS1 standard. The barcode scanner 26 can include one or more of a line scanner, a two-dimensional scanner, a radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner, and a camera device. The barcode scanner 26 is supported on a mounting bracket 27 configured to rotate about the label placement axis P together with the label applicator pad 24, but the mounting bracket 27 is in a fixed position relative to the label orientation axis L.

[0152] Figure 6a and 6b shows the operation of the first rotary actuator 22. In particular, in Figure 6a , the first rotary actuator 22 is configured such that the label applicator pad 24 is oriented such that the label support plane LS defined by the label applicator pad 24 is parallel to the x-axis. In contrast, in Figure 6b , the first rotary actuator 22 is configured such that the label applicator pad 24 is oriented such that the label support plane LS of the label applicator pad 24 is parallel to the y-axis and has been rotated 90 degrees in the clockwise direction. In a third configuration (not shown), the label applicator pad 24 can be oriented such that the plane of the label applicator pad 24 is parallel to the y-axis and has been rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from the configuration shown in Figure 6a .

[0153] Referring to Figure 7a and 7b , the label applicator pad 24 has a generally rectangular shape with a height H greater than a width W. The label applicator pad 24 has a first side 24a and a second side 24b. The first side 24a includes a mounting cylinder 25 that is connected to the second rotary actuator 23. The second side 24b is configured to support the label to be applied to the article and defines the label support plane LS (see Figure 6a , 6b ).

[0154] The label applicator 3 further includes a vacuum source (not shown) that is provided in communication with the mounting cylinder 25 and is configured to create a vacuum within the inner cavity 25a defined by the mounting cylinder 25 (see Figure 7a ). A plurality of holes 28 are provided through the label applicator pad 24 to allow air to flow from the second side 24b of the label applicator pad 24 into the inner cavity 25a. The second side 24b of the label applicator pad 24 further includes a series of longitudinal slots 29 that allow air flow through.

[0155] In a first configuration, when a vacuum is applied to the inner cavity 25a, the label can be pulled into contact with the side 24b of the label applicator pad 24. Once the label contacts the label applicator pad 24, the vacuum source provides a suction effect to temporarily hold the label on the label applicator pad 24. Additionally, in a second configuration, the vacuum source is disabled, allowing the label to be applied to the article.

[0156] In an alternative arrangement, one or more fans can be integrated within the applicator pad 24 to provide suction. In another alternative, the vacuum source can be disposed within the housing 5.

[0157] Referring again to Figure 5 、 Figure 6a and Figure 6b ,the further details of the second rotary actuator 23 can be understood. The applicator pad 24 is supported by a first mounting plate 30 connected to a bracket 27. The first mounting plate 30 is connected to the output of the first rotary actuator 22 via a second mounting plate 31. A drive motor 32 is fixed to the first mounting plate 30. The drive motor 32 drives a first gear 33, and the first gear 33 is coupled to a second gear 35 via a transmission belt 34. The second gear 35 is rotatably mounted to the first mounting plate 30. The first gear 33 and the second gear 35 can provide a gear reduction (e.g., 4:1) from the motor drive 32. The drive motor 32 can be a stepper motor and can itself include a reduction gearbox. A microswitch 37 is provided to detect the rotation of the label applicator pad 24 and provide a signal to the motion controller to limit the degree of rotation. The microswitch 37 is an example of a position sensor.

[0158] The second gear 35 is also coupled to the applicator pad 24 via a universal joint assembly 38. The universal joint assembly 38 is fixed to the mounting cylinder 25 and allows the applicator pad 24 to move to a limited extent to allow for a tight fit with the surface to which the label is being applied, while transferring the rotational motion from the gear 35 to the applicator pad 24. The universal joint assembly can be omitted in some arrangements.

[0159] In an alternative arrangement, any suitable motor and drive system can be used. Alternatively, the rotation of the label applicator pad 24 can be provided by a pneumatic or other electromechanical actuator (such as a solenoid).

[0160] The second rotary actuator 23 is configured to rotate the applicator pad 24 about the label azimuth axis L. The applicator pad 23 can be configured to rotate from a longitudinal orientation (as shown in Figure 8a ) to a transverse orientation (as shown in Figure 8b ). That is, the degree of rotation can be limited to 90 degrees in only one direction (although in other embodiments, a greater degree of rotation, such as ±90 degrees, may be preferred).

[0161] In use, the label applicator 3 is capable of applying labels to various surfaces of articles stacked on the tray 12 in a variety of orientations. As described above, the first linear actuator 20 and the second linear actuator 21 allow the label actuator pad 24 to be moved to any arbitrary position within the operating limits of each actuator in the x and y directions.

[0162] In one embodiment, the first linear actuator 20 may allow a movement range of up to 500 mm in the x direction, and the second linear actuator may allow a movement range of up to 700 mm in the y direction. Of course, different movement ranges may be provided according to the needs of the specific labeling application.

[0163] To apply labels to different surfaces of articles stacked on a tray adjacent to the tray labeling device 1, the first rotary actuator 22 allows rotation between three positions about the label placement axis P, as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 9a-9d Finally, to apply labels in a longitudinal or transverse orientation, the second rotary actuator 23 allows rotation between two positions that are 90 degrees apart from each other about the label orientation axis L.

[0164] As Figures 9a-9d shown, the tray 12 can be moved past the tray labeling device 1 in the movement direction D. The tray 12 is shown without any articles stacked thereon, but in normal operation, the tray 12 may include a tray base (as shown), which has a plurality of articles (such as boxes) stacked thereon and is wrapped in plastic film for secure transportation.

[0165] The packaged tray has a first side S1 that is guided in the movement direction D, a second side S2 that faces the tray labeling device 1, a third side S3 that follows in the movement direction D, and a fourth side S4 that faces away from the tray labeling device 1. The tray labeling device 1 is capable of applying labels to each of the first side S1, the second side S2, and the third side S3.

[0166] For example, Figure 9a shows the label applicator 3 applying a label to the tray 12 at a first position L1 on the third side S3 of the tray 12. In this case, the label actuator pad 24 is in a first orientation aligned with the third side S1 of the tray 12, and the first linear actuator 20 and the second linear actuator 21 are configured to move the label actuator pad 24 to a minimum position in the x direction and an extended position in the y direction.

[0167] Figure 9bIllustrated is the label applicator 3 applying a label to the tray 12 at the second position L2 (i.e., on the second side S2 of the tray 12). In this case, the label applicator pad 24 is in a second orientation aligned with the second side S2 of the tray 3 (90 degrees relative to the first orientation, rotated about the vertically aligned label placement axis P). Compared with Figure 9a the position shown in, the first linear actuator 20 has caused a positive movement in the x direction, and the second linear actuator 21 has caused a negative movement in the y direction.

[0168] Figure 9c Illustrated is the label applicator 3 applying a label to the tray 12 at the third position L3 (i.e., on the first side S1 of the tray 12). In this case, the label applicator pad 24 is in a third orientation aligned with the first side S2 of the tray 3 (180 degrees relative to the first orientation, rotated about the vertically aligned label placement axis P). Compared with Figure 9b the position shown in, the position has not changed in the x direction, but the second linear actuator 21 has caused a positive movement in the y direction.

[0169] Finally, Figure 9d Illustrated is the label applicator 3 applying a label to the tray 12 at the fourth position L4 (i.e., on the second side S2 of the tray 12). In this case, the label applicator pad 24 is again in the second orientation aligned with the second side S2 of the tray 3 (90 degrees relative to each of the first and third orientations). Compared with Figure 9c the position shown in, the first linear actuator 20 has caused a negative movement in the x direction, and the second linear actuator 21 has caused a negative movement in the y direction.

[0170] It can be seen that in order to apply a label to each of the first position L1 and the second position L2, the rear side S3 of the tray should be aligned with the position P1. On the other hand, in order to apply a label to each of the third position L3 and the additional position L4, the front side S1 of the tray should be aligned with the position P2.

[0171] In some embodiments, it may be preferred to apply labels at three or even four positions of L1 - L4. In this case, the tray 12 should first stop such that the front side S1 is flush with the second position P2 while a label is applied at one or both of the third position L3 and the additional position L4. Then, the tray 12 should advance along the moving direction D before stopping such that the rear side S3 is flush with the first position P1 while a label is applied at one or both of the first position L1 and the second position L2.

[0172] A light sensor (not shown) or other device may be provided to indicate the presence of the tray at the first position P1 or the second position P2.

[0173] However, it should be understood that although only four configurations of the label applicator 3 are shown in Figures 9a to 9d , the label applicator 3 can be configured to apply labels at other positions within the operating range.

[0174] Referring to Figure 10 , the system controller 50 is configured to communicate with a pallet sensor 51, which is associated with a pallet conveyor (not shown). The pallet sensor 51 is configured to send a signal to the system controller 50 to indicate whether an item (e.g., pallet 12) is positioned on the conveyor at a first position P1 and / or a second position P2. The system controller 50 also communicates with a labeler controller 52 to control the printing and dispensing of labels. For example, if the pallet sensor 51 sends a signal to the system controller 50 indicating that the pallet 12 is positioned on the conveyor with its leading edge at the second position P2, the system controller 50 can instruct the labeler controller 52 to print a label for application to the pallet 12. The system controller 50 can communicate with a motion controller 54 to cause the label applicator 3 to move the label applicator pad 24 to a position to receive a label from the labeler 2 (although the label applicator pad 24 may already be set in such a position).

[0175] Once the label has been printed and dispensed, the system controller 50 can communicate with the motion controller 54 to cause the label applicator 3 to move the label applicator pad 24 so as to apply the label at one of a third position and additional positions. These operations can continue until each of the desired labels has been applied to the pallet 12.

[0176] The motion controller 54 is configured to control a first linear actuator 20 and a second linear actuator 21, as well as a first rotary actuator 22 and a second rotary actuator 23. One or more sensors 55 can be associated with the linear and rotary actuators (e.g., microswitch 37), thereby allowing the motion controller 54 to determine when the actuators reach a desired position.

[0177] A barcode scanner 26 is also configured to transfer data to the system controller 50. The data can be data indicating the image or quality of a printed label or barcode. The barcode scanner 26 can obtain such data before the label has been transferred to the label applicator pad 24 (i.e., before the label has been dispensed from the labeler 2) and / or after the label has been applied to the pallet 12. Such data can identify defective barcodes.

[0178] The system controller 50 can be configured to receive label image data 200d from an industrial control system (not shown).

[0179] It should be understood that different functions may be performed by different parts. For example, system controller 50, motion controller 54, and label applicator controller 51 may all be provided by a single controller, by multiple controllers or processors located in a common location (e.g., within housing 5).

[0180] Similarly, alternative label applicator systems may be provided. For example, in some embodiments, movement of the z-axis may be provided, while in other embodiments, a reduced degree of movement may be desired. For example, the applicator may move only in a single linear direction (e.g., towards and away from the labeling position). In some examples, a pivoting movement may be provided to move the label relative to the labeling position. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, a motor-controlled actuator may be provided, while in other embodiments, a robotic arm (e.g., a 6-axis robotic arm) may be provided. Generally, the type of actuator used or the degrees of freedom provided will depend on the particular labeling application. However, in each case, the label applicator will be able to apply the dispensed label to the article in an application orientation, as described in more detail below.

[0181] As described above, the purpose of using the system described herein to apply labels to pallets is to enable information (among other things) associated with the contents of the pallet or the destination to which the pallet is to be shipped to be provided on the pallet in an easily accessible format. Therefore, it is important that within the label printing and applying device, robust quality control measures are provided and that there is also a high degree of confidence that the labels applied to the product accurately reflect the information intended to be included within the label.

[0182] GS1-compliant barcodes are typically printed vertically on a longitudinal label. That is, each bar in the barcode is arranged vertically in the same orientation as the longer length of the longitudinal label.

[0183] To avoid a large amount of unnecessary cost, a printer is typically provided that is capable of printing across the entire width of the longitudinal label. To print across the entire width of the longitudinal label, a print head that is narrower than the print head required to print across the entire width of a transverse label is needed. For example, if the label size is 100 mm × 150 mm, a print head that is capable of printing across the entire 100 mm width will be sufficient to be able to print the entire label. This obviates the need to provide an unnecessarily wide (and expensive) print head for the printer.

[0184] Therefore, it can be understood that when the barcode is printed in the above orientation, when the barcode is printed, the vertical stripes within the barcode will be printed by the same one or more print elements disposed across the width of the print head. This orientation of the barcode may be referred to as a "picket fence" orientation or a first print orientation.

[0185] Accordingly, it will be further understood that if a single print element within the printhead fails, the entire bar code printed in a fence-like orientation may become unreadable. Additionally, if multiple print elements fail, several vertical lines within the bar code may be affected.

[0186] It has long been known to adjust the horizontal position of a bar code to accommodate known printer defects within the blank space regions of the bar code. That is, the bar code can be "shifted" left or right by an amount that allows known print defects (e.g., a failed print element) to fall within a region where printing is not required for that particular bar code. In this way, defects during bar code printing can already be reduced.

[0187] As described above, printed labels typically include more than one bar code. Additionally, two bar codes can be stacked one on top of the other. In such an arrangement, it may be difficult or even impossible for a single defective print element to adjust the image in such a way that a blank vertical line can be found that passes through both bar codes and takes into account the defective print element. Additionally, as the number of print defects increases, the difficulty of adjusting the printed image to accommodate such defects also increases.

[0188] Furthermore, while a suitable adjustment for a single printed label can be found when each printed label is different (e.g., each label has a unique serial number), a new evaluation of possible image offsets may need to be performed for each individual printed label.

[0189] In view of the above, when there is a certain degree of defect rate within the printhead, it may be very difficult to print fence-like bar codes to an acceptable quality level for effective reading during subsequent distribution.

[0190] As described above, the label applicator 3 of the tray labeling device 1 described herein allows the label to be manipulated in a variety of different ways. One of the ways the label applicator can be manipulated is to rotate the label applicator pad 24. This enables the label to be rotated from a first orientation (e.g., a longitudinal orientation - Figure 8a ) to a second orientation (e.g., a transverse orientation - Figure 8b ). Additionally, it has been recognized that although labels have traditionally been printed in a longitudinal manner (bar codes with a "fence-like" orientation) and applied to the tray in a similar longitudinal manner, labels can also be applied in a transverse manner. Additionally, it has been recognized that in the case of print quality defects due to defective print elements, a high-quality image or at least an image of sufficient quality such that the bar code therein can be read can be printed by rotating the image to be printed so that the label is in a transverse orientation when applied.

[0191] As described above, vertically printed labels may include barcodes printed vertically in a fence-like orientation (i.e., a first printing orientation). However, barcodes printed horizontally relative to the printing element may be referred to as "stepped" barcodes or a second printing orientation. In particular, each line within the barcode may correspond to a separate printing line executed at any given point in time, where each line of the barcode is printed sequentially rather than having a portion of each line of the barcode printed in parallel. Such stepped barcodes may be relatively unaffected by printing quality defects caused by defective printing elements, as a defective printing element will result in a horizontal stripe across the completed barcode that extends perpendicular to the orientation of the individual lines within the barcode. While such a defect is visible to the human eye, it generally does not interfere with the ability of a barcode scanner to read the barcode. Thus, stepped printed barcodes may avoid the aforementioned problems associated with defective printing elements. By rotating the image to be printed on the label, the barcode can be printed in a stepped rather than a fence-like arrangement.

[0192] Such rotation of the image to be printed on the label may require some adjustment to the image elements or composition within the label. Such reorientation of the label image can be performed by the system controller 50 of device 1. The rotation of the image to be printed on the label can refer to the rotation of the complete image, or to the rotation of one or more image components, and the adjustment of those image components within the label.

[0193] Defective printing elements may occur for a variety of reasons. For example, a printing element may fail after being used for some period of time. More specifically, printing elements within a thermal transfer printer or a thermal printer (either of which may be used within a label printer) typically include a plurality of resistors, each of which is energized during a printing operation to print a pixel. During operation, the printing element may be continuously cycled on and off and heated to a high temperature, and then rapidly cooled again during each cycle. The continuous cycling of the printing element may eventually result in the failure of one or more printing elements within the print head. A defective printing element may be referred to as a "bad pixel". Defective elements can be detected by a process such as that described in WO 2015 / 052540. By performing such a defective element detection process, a map associated with the print head (e.g., a bad pixel map) can be generated. This map can then be used to attempt to avoid printing barcodes that rely on printing using defective printing elements. During the label printing process, each label image can be compared to the bad pixel map to identify potential printing quality issues prior to printing.

[0194] Further or alternatively, as described above, the label applicator 24 of the labeling device 1 includes a barcode scanner 26. The barcode scanner can be configured to allow a barcode to be imaged or scanned by the device 1, for example during the dispensing process. For example, an image of the barcode can be captured when the label has been partially dispensed and before the label applicator pad 24 has collected the label from the label dispenser. Such pre-dispensing scanning can identify defective barcodes immediately after printing but before application to a product (e.g., a pallet).

[0195] Although dead or bad pixels can be identified via the defective element detection algorithm as described above, the printing elements can also become dirty during use. Thus, even when the printing elements can operate correctly, debris on the surface of the printing elements can prevent effective printing using that particular printing element. In such a case, even if one or more printing elements remain electrically operable, they may become operationally defective. Thus, by scanning the barcodes that have been printed but before label collection, defective barcodes can be identified and prevented from being applied to the pallet.

[0196] If any of the above processes identifies a defective barcode on a label being printed (or to be printed) in a first printing orientation (i.e., a barcode with print quality insufficient to support proper information retrieval), the image to be printed can be rotated and printed onto a new label in a second printing orientation. The label can then be applied to the pallet in the rotated (i.e., second) application orientation as described above. That is, the printing orientation and the application orientation are controlled based on a measure of image quality (e.g., data indicating image quality).

[0197] It should be understood that if a decision to rotate the label has been made after a defective label has been printed, the defective printed label can be collected and discarded, for example by applying the defective label to a predetermined discard location. Alternatively, if the label has been applied to the pallet and read in situ and if it is determined at this stage that it is defective, a replacement label can be printed and applied on top of the original label. It can be further understood that since the first label can be applied to the pallet in a longitudinal manner (i.e., the first application orientation) and the replacement label can be applied to the pallet in a transverse orientation (i.e., the second application orientation), an intermediate blank label can be applied to the top of the first (i.e., defective) label in a longitudinal manner, thus avoiding any risk of the portion of the label including the defective printing being read during subsequent reading operations.

[0198] It will be further understood that one or more of the print quality determination processes described above can be performed during each labeling operation. On the other hand, during some labeling operations, one or more of the print quality determination processes described above can be omitted.

[0199] For example, in a case where it has been previously determined that there are defective elements that will inevitably cause print quality problems, it may be decided to rotate each image before printing and print all the labels in a second printing orientation until a remedial action (e.g., print head inspection, cleaning, or replacement) has been taken. In such a case, it may not be possible to scan the barcodes that have been printed before collection. In particular, since the stepped barcodes will be gradually dispensed in an orientation rotated with respect to the orientation of the barcode scanner 26 from the dispensing position, it may not be possible to read the barcodes before collection. In such a case, it may be assumed that the quality of the barcodes is sufficient to enable subsequent reading. Alternatively, once the barcodes have been applied to the products, the barcodes can be read. Of course, it should be understood that in a case where the barcodes have been printed in a rotated manner (i.e., in the second printing orientation), it may not be possible to further rotate the images to improve the print quality. That is, if rotation has been performed to improve the print quality but the print quality is still insufficient, then some alternative actions may be required to improve the print quality. For example, it may be necessary to clean the print head or even replace the print head.

[0200] Now refer to Figure 11 Describe the process executed by the controller 50 by which labels can be printed, (optionally) rotated, and applied. At step S200, the controller 50 receives a print instruction. The print instruction can include sufficient information about the content and layout of the label (e.g., image data D200) to enable generation of a final label image. For example, various data fields can be provided in the image data D200, which can be combined with a label template obtainable from a memory associated with the controller 50 to generate a final label print image. At step S201, such a label print image is electronically generated. Then, at step S202, the generated label print image can be evaluated with reference to printer characteristic data D202 (e.g., a bad pixel map) to determine whether there are expected print image quality problems. The printer characteristic data D202 can be generated as needed (e.g., by performing a defective print element detection process) or can be obtained from a memory associated with the controller 50. Thus, the process at step S202 can generate data indicating the image quality, which includes data indicating the expected image quality. Based on this data, it can be determined whether the data indicating the image quality meets a predetermined standard. The predetermined standard can be that the barcodes within the image to be printed can be read by the barcode scanner (i.e., "pass"). The predetermined standard can be referred to as a predetermined expected standard because it relates to the expected print quality. The data indicating (expected) image quality can be considered to be associated with the labels that have not yet been printed.

[0201] If it is determined in step S202 that a print quality problem is not likely to occur (considering printer characteristic data D202), the process proceeds to step S204, where the label is printed in a normal (i.e., portrait) mode. That is, if a predetermined criterion is met and the barcodes within the image to be printed are likely to have sufficient quality to be read by a barcode scanner, the label is printed by label printer 186. By default, printing is performed in a first print orientation, e.g., the bars of the barcode are arranged to be aligned with the direction along which the label moves past the print head. In the case where the label is a portrait label (i.e., its length in the moving direction is greater than its width), the bars of the barcode are aligned with the longer label direction (i.e., its height).

[0202] Once the label has been printed, the process proceeds to S205, where the label is scanned using barcode scanner 26 associated with label applicator 3. Thus, the processing at step S205 can generate additional data indicative of the image quality. The scanner is configured to generate sensor data indicative of the characteristics (e.g., barcode) of the image printed on the label. The sensor data can be an image of the barcode, and the data indicative of the image quality can be an indication of the quality of the barcode derived from the sensor data.

[0203] Then, in step S206, the label quality is determined. It can be determined whether the data indicative of the image quality meets a predetermined criterion. The predetermined criterion can be that the barcodes within the printed image can be read by a barcode scanner (i.e., "pass"). The predetermined criterion can be referred to as a predetermined print criterion since it relates to the quality of the printed image. The data indicative of the (printed) image quality can be considered to be associated with the label that has now been printed.

[0204] If it is determined that the scanned label has acceptable quality (based on the printed image), based on the scanned image, the process proceeds to step S208, where the label is dispensed by the label dispenser and collected by applicator pad 24 (which is moved by label applicator 3). The label can be dispensed in a label dispensing orientation, i.e., the orientation in which the label moves when it separates from the label web when the label last moves past peel beak 180.

[0205] Then the label can be applied in an application orientation at step S210. In the example described, the application orientation is a first application orientation, which is a portrait orientation and which corresponds to the same orientation in which the label is printed (i.e., the first print orientation) and dispensed (i.e., the dispensing orientation).

[0206] After the label has been applied, at step S211, the barcode scanner 26 scans the label again. Then at step S212, the label quality is further determined. It can be determined whether the data indicating the image quality meets a predetermined standard. The predetermined standard can be that the barcode within the printed image can be read by the barcode scanner (i.e., "pass"). The predetermined standard can refer to a predetermined application standard as it relates to the quality of the image on the label that has been applied to the article. If it is determined based on the scanned image that the applied label has an acceptable quality (i.e., "pass"), the process can be completed at step S214.

[0207] Referring again to step S202, if the process performed determines that known printer characteristics (such as dead pixels) may result in a defective print (i.e., "fail"), the process proceeds to step S216, where the image to be printed is rotated. The image to be printed can be rotated 90 degrees.

[0208] It should be understood that rotating the image generally does not simply involve rotating each element of the image or the entire image. However, the information provided within the label image (e.g., image data D200) can be reorganized to fit within an alternately arranged (e.g., landscape) label template. This process of determining to rotate the image to be printed can be referred to as determining that the print orientation and the application orientation should be the second print orientation and the second application orientation, respectively. That is, both the print orientation and the application orientation can be changed in a coordinated manner.

[0209] Once this image processing step has been performed, the process proceeds to step S218, where the rotated image can be printed on the label in a landscape format (i.e., the second print orientation). Then, the process proceeds to step S220, where the label is dispensed (in the dispensing orientation) and collected by the applicator pad 24. Of course, it should be understood that in this case, due to the orientation being swapped relative to the barcode scanner 26, it is not possible to scan the label before collection.

[0210] Once the label has been collected at step 220, the label can be rotated at step S222 so as to present the barcode in a horizontal orientation before application (since this is the expected orientation for barcode scanning). The label can be rotated 90 degrees (i.e., the same rotation as applied to the image at step S216).

[0211] Once the label has been rotated, the label can be applied at step S210 in the second application orientation. Except for the orientation, the application process is substantially as further described above (although the label applicator pad 24 is now in a landscape orientation). Then the label can be scanned again at step 211, the label is evaluated at step S212, and if the scanning process indicates sufficient print quality, the process proceeds to step S214.

[0212] On the other hand, if the process as described at S212 results in determining that the quality of the label is not sufficient to be subsequently read (e.g., if a predetermined application standard is not met and a "failed" result is determined), the process proceeds to step S224. At step S224, it is determined whether the label has been rotated previously (i.e., whether the label was previously printed in a second print orientation and applied in a second application orientation). This determination can be equivalent to determining whether the application process has followed steps S216 to S222. If it is determined that the label has been rotated, the process terminates at step S226, where it is declared that a label application failure has occurred. The result of this process can be used to generate an alert to the operator, notifying them that the quality of the printed label is not sufficient to be read and suggesting that they perform some maintenance or investigative work.

[0213] On the other hand, if at step S224 it is determined that the non-rotated label application branch (i.e., the branch including steps S204 - 208) has been followed for the applied label (i.e., the previously applied label was printed in a first print orientation and applied in a first application orientation), the process can proceed to step S228, where a blank label is assigned and placed on top of the previously applied label on the tray.

[0214] Next, the process proceeds to step S216, where the label image is rotated (S216), printed (S218), collected (S220), rotated (S222), and applied (S210) in a landscape orientation (second application orientation) on the original longitudinal label. This process can constitute determining that the print orientation and the application orientation should be the second print orientation and the second application orientation, respectively. That is, if the label was previously printed and applied in a first orientation, both the print orientation and the application orientation can be changed in a coordinated manner.

[0215] It should be understood that even if the (first) label was previously printed and applied in a first orientation, the process of step S216 can be equivalent to determining the application orientation based on data indicating the image quality that has been determined at step S212. Then, the (second) printing step of S218 can be considered to constitute causing the label printer to print an image on the label along the print orientation (in this case, the second print orientation).

[0216] As described above, providing a blank label between the original defective longitudinal label and the replacement landscape label ensures that information cannot be read from the original label. Of course, in some cases, it may not be necessary to provide such a blank label, for example, if the placement of the replacement label can ensure coverage of critical information. Thus, process step S228 can be considered optional.

[0217] As described above, process branches S204 - 208 provide non - rotating labels to be printed, where the printer characteristic data D202 indicates that there are no expected significant label quality problems. Of course, as described above, it is possible that there may be other print quality problems that could cause the labels printed in this way to be defective. Such print quality problems can be detected by the scan performed at step S206. It has been previously described that if the scan results in confirmation of sufficient print quality, the process proceeds to step S208. On the other hand, if the scan performed at step S206 identifies insufficient print quality, the process can proceed to step S230, where the printed labels can be collected and discarded. Then, the process can proceed to step S216, where the image can be rotated (S216), printed (S218), collected (S220), rotated (S222), and applied (S210).

[0218] It should be understood that the above process describes several different determinations of label print quality. Each of these determinations (i.e., those performed at steps S202, S206, or S212) can be considered as a determination of data indicating image quality. That is, the determination of data indicating image quality can include processes performed before the image has been printed (e.g., by using a bad - pixel map at step S202) or after the image has been printed (e.g., at step S206 or at step S212).

[0219] In addition, the determination of expected print quality, for example based on knowledge of the bad - pixel map, can be considered as a determination made based on data indicating the characteristics of the printer. Such data indicating the characteristics of the printer can itself include data indicating the characteristics of the printer's print head, or data indicating the characteristics of a plurality of print elements associated with the print head. The data indicating the characteristics of the plurality of print elements can include a binary representation for each of the print elements, which indicates the "defective" or "normal" characteristics of the corresponding print element. Alternatively, such data can include the resistance values associated with each print element. A resistance value above a certain predetermined threshold can be considered to indicate a defective print element.

[0220] The various processes performed before S216 (whether based on scanning the printed image after printing or the expected image quality before printing) can be considered as a determination that the image should be rotated. More generally, such processes can be considered as a determination of the application orientation based on data indicating the print image quality.

[0221] On the other hand, determining at step S206 that the label printed at step S204 should be collected and applied can constitute the determination of the application orientation based on data indicating the printed image quality. That is, when it has been determined that the printed image quality is sufficient, the candidate label that has been printed can confirm (or determine) its application orientation after printing.

[0222] The above process has been described as being performed by the controller 50. However, it should be understood that various controllers can be used to perform different parts of the process. In addition, some of the steps described herein as being performed by the controller can be performed by the user.

[0223] For example, the determination of the image quality can be performed by a processor associated with the barcode scanner 26 (e.g., by a processor disposed within the label applicator pad 24). Thus, the image quality data provided to the controller 50 can be a "pass" or "fail" determination generated by a processor associated with a scanner (which can include a barcode validator or a barcode reader). The processor associated with the scanner can also pass the data that has been read from the barcode to the controller 50 (if a "pass" determination has been made).

[0224] On the other hand, in the case where the barcode scanner 26 is implemented as a different type of sensor (e.g., a camera or a linear array), the data provided to the controller 50 can be image data, which is processed by the controller 50 to generate data indicating the image quality. Thus, the controller can receive an indication of the image quality in the form of image data and then itself generate data indicating the image quality (e.g., a "pass" or "fail" determination).

[0225] The barcode scanner 26 can also include a barcode validator or a barcode reader.

[0226] Alternatively or additionally, the process of controlling the label applicator 3 can be performed at different locations. For example, although the controller 50 can determine that the label should be applied at a specific location or in a specific orientation, additional controller(s) associated with the label applicator 3 or a part thereof can be configured to implement the labeling or rotation process.

[0227] In another alternative, the determination of the printed image quality can be performed by a human operator. Such a determination can cause the user or operator of the labeling device 1 to provide an indication of the image quality associated with the label to the device via an input interface.

[0228] For example, the user may select a "rotated" label mode for a single (e.g., next) label or for all future labels (e.g., until a print head inspection, cleaning, or replacement operation has occurred). Such a selection may cause steps S204 - S208 to be temporarily omitted. Alternatively, the user may simply provide an indication of insufficient image quality (where a possible selection of the rotated label mode is performed by the controller of the device).

[0229] This determination of image quality may be performed in parallel with other determinations (e.g., based on printer characteristic data D202, or based on a scanned label).

[0230] For example, the user may effectively override the normal or default print orientation so as to force all labels to be printed (and applied) in a rotated orientation. Alternatively or additionally, this determination of image quality may be performed after printing a particular label, where a single replacement label is printed (in a second orientation) to replace a label that has been determined by the user to be of insufficient quality.

[0231] Of course, it should be understood that the user may determine the print image quality by visually inspecting the printed label, or alternatively by using a barcode scanner (e.g., a barcode reader or barcode verifier) (e.g., a handheld scanner).

[0232] In another configuration, the barcode scanner may be provided separately to the labeling device 1, but may provide an indication of the image quality associated with the label to the device 1 either directly or indirectly (e.g., via an operator).

[0233] More generally, the data indicating image quality and the above user input are examples of indications of image quality.

[0234] Figure 12 A standard longitudinal print label PL is shown, which includes a first field T1 holding text information, a first barcode B1 oriented horizontally across the label, and a second barcode B2 also oriented horizontally across the label. Both barcodes B1 and B2 are arranged one above the other, where the vertical stripes of the barcodes are aligned with the length L of the longitudinal label, and the width W of the longitudinal label is less than the length L. It should be understood that the width W of the longitudinal label should generally not be wider than the print head 192, thus ensuring that the barcode and text (or any other image data) can be printed across the entire width of the label PL. During printing, the label PL is printed and moved relative to the print head in direction D1, where the barcodes B1, B2 are printed in a fence - like manner. The longitudinal label PL has been printed in a first print orientation.

[0235] Figure 13Shows a landscape label LL, which includes substantially the same information as displayed in label PL. However, each of the first barcode B1' and the second barcode B2' is now arranged such that the width of the barcode extends along the length L' of the landscape label, wherein the vertical stripes within each of the barcodes B1', B2' extend in a direction parallel to the width W' of the landscape label LL. The text information T1' has been rearranged so as to be located beside the barcodes B1', B2' rather than above them as was the case with label PL. Thus, it can be seen that all the same information provided on label PL is accommodated on label LL in a different organizational manner. Further, during printing, the label will be moved relative to the print head 192 in direction D1', wherein the barcodes B1', B2' are printed in a stepped manner. The landscape label LL has been printed in a second printing orientation.

[0236] Barcodes B1, B2 and field T1, and barcodes B1', B2' and field T1' are examples of image components printed on labels PL and LL. As Figure 12 and Figure 13 shown, various image components can be rearranged and / or rotated, thereby allowing the printing orientation to be changed from a first printing orientation (see Figure 12 ) to a second printing orientation (see Figure 13 ).

[0237] If labels PL, LL are applied to an article in the shown orientations (i.e., portrait or landscape respectively), it should be understood that in each of the first and second printing orientations, a particular image component (e.g., barcodes B1, B2, B1', B2') can be read by a scanner (e.g., a barcode scanner) after application, regardless of the application orientation. This is because, in either application orientation, the image (or image component) will have the same orientation. That is, the controller of device 1 can be configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation such that the image component has a predetermined orientation (e.g., horizontal) when applied to the article.

[0238] In addition to label layouts PL and LL, various alternative label formats can be used. Various templates can be stored in a memory associated with the controller 50, or can be provided to the controller 50 together with the image data D200.

[0239] Further, while the present disclosure describes particular benefits of selective rotation of images comprising image components (such as conventional barcodes), labels comprising other orientation-sensitive and generally machine-readable image components can undergo the same process and can benefit in a similar manner as described above.

[0240] That is to say, the horizontal orientation is merely an example of a predetermined orientation of the image components. It is possible that other orientations and / or other image components may have specific requirements. For example, a particular application may require a vertically aligned barcode, or some human-readable codes may have specific readability requirements.

[0241] In addition to the above methods, the labeling device can be configured to select an appropriate printing and application orientation so as to ensure that the image components of the image printed on the label have a predetermined orientation when applied to the article. This selection can be based, for example, on the selection (e.g., user input) of a preferred label orientation (e.g., landscape or portrait). It is not required to determine the orientation based on data indicating image quality or even any other indication of image quality.

[0242] It should be noted that a 2-axis linear arm has been described above. However, alternative label applicators can be used in some applications. For example, any suitable label applicator can be used as long as it can be operated to rotate the label between being printed and being applied. For example, in some cases where more or less labeling flexibility is required, any applicator with a pneumatic or motor-driven arm arranged to move the applicator head along the main axis towards and away from the tray to apply the label to the front of the tray may be preferred. The applicator head can be configured to rotate between a first labeling orientation and a second (rotated) labeling orientation so as to allow a label printed in landscape but dispensed in portrait to be rotated for application in the landscape orientation.

[0243] Alternatively, the label applicator device can be configured such that the label rotates by default. For example, in certain cases (e.g., due to space limitations), it may be preferred that the label is dispensed in the landscape orientation, even in cases where the label is intended to be applied in the portrait orientation and the barcode has been printed in a fence-style orientation. The applicator head can be configured to rotate a label printed in portrait but dispensed in landscape for application. In such an arrangement, if an image quality (e.g., expected or detected) issue is identified, the applicator head can be configured to stop rotating the label so that the label printed and dispensed in landscape is also applied in the landscape orientation.

[0244] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided only as examples and are not intended to be restrictive in nature. In fact, various alternatives and variations of the specific embodiments described herein will be understood to be possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system configured to print labels and apply the labels to an item, comprising: A label printer configured to print an image on a label in a printing orientation; A label dispenser configured to dispense the printed label; A label applicator configured to apply the dispensed label to the item in an application orientation; And A controller configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation based on an indication of image quality associated with the label.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation such that an image component within the image has a predetermined orientation when applied to the item.

3. A system configured to print labels and apply the labels to an item, comprising: A label printer configured to print an image including an image component on a label in a printing orientation selected from a first printing orientation and a second printing orientation; A label dispenser configured to dispense the printed label; A label applicator configured to apply the dispensed label to the item in an application orientation selected from a first application orientation and a second application orientation; And A controller configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation such that the image component has a predetermined orientation when applied to the item.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein The controller is configured to determine the printing orientation and the application orientation based on an indication of image quality associated with the label.

5. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The controller is configured to: Determine data indicative of image quality associated with the label, and Determine the printing orientation and the application orientation based on the data indicative of image quality.

6. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The label applicator is capable of: Adjusting the orientation of the label relative to the item by rotating the label about a label orientation axis perpendicular to the plane of the label, and Applying the label to the item in the application orientation.

7. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the application orientation and the printing orientation based on data indicative of image quality.

8. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The controller is configured to receive an indication of image quality from at least one of the following: An image sensor; A barcode scanner; A barcode verifier; A controller associated with the printer, the indication of image quality including data indicative of an expected image quality; and User input.

9. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The system is capable of adjusting the orientation of the image to be printed on the label and / or the orientation of an image component of the image to be printed on the label.

10. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When the printing orientation is the first printing orientation, the application orientation is the first application orientation; And When the printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the application orientation is the second application orientation.

11. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The image printed on the label includes a barcode.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The indication of image quality includes an indication of barcode quality.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12 and claim 10, wherein, The barcode includes a plurality of bars, and when the printing orientation is the first printing orientation, the bars are aligned with the label dispensing direction.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein When the printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the strip is orthogonal to the label assignment direction.

15. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sensor configured to generate sensor data indicative of a characteristic of an image printed on the label.

16. The system according to claim 15 and claim 10 or any claim dependent on claim 15 and claim 10, configured to: Print a first label in the first printing orientation; Generate sensor data indicative of a characteristic of the image printed on the first label; Determine data indicative of image quality based on the sensor data; And If the data indicative of image quality meets a predetermined printing standard: Determine that the printing orientation is the first printing orientation and the application orientation is the first application orientation; And Apply the printed label in the first application orientation.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein: If the data indicative of image quality does not meet a predetermined printing standard, the system is configured to: Discard the first printed label; Print a second label in the second printing orientation; Determine that the printing orientation is the second printing orientation and the application orientation is the second application orientation; And Apply the second printed label in the second application orientation.

18. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The indication of image quality includes data indicative of expected image quality.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein, Data indicative of expected image quality is generated based on data indicative of characteristics of the printer.

20. The system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: If the data indicative of expected image quality meets a predetermined expected standard, the system is configured to print a first label in the first printing orientation.

21. The system according to claim 20, wherein: If the data indicative of expected image quality does not meet a predetermined expected standard, the system is configured to print a first label in the second printing orientation.

22. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a sensor configured to generate sensor data indicative of a characteristic of a label applied to the article.

23. The system according to claim 22, the system being configured to obtain data indicative of a characteristic of a label applied to the article in either the first application orientation or the second application orientation.

24. The system according to any one of claims 22 or 23, wherein: If the sensor data indicative of a characteristic of the label applied to the article does not meet a predetermined application standard and if the application orientation is the first application orientation, the system is configured to: Print a second printed label in the second printing orientation; Determine that the application orientation is the second application orientation; And Apply the second printed label in the second application orientation.

25. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The label applicator is configured to manipulate the label in two dimensions relative to the article to which the label is to be applied.

26. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The label applicator includes: A first actuator configured to move the label towards and away from the article; A second actuator configured to move the label in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the article; and A third actuator configured to rotate the label applicator pad about a vertical axis.

27. A method of applying a label to an article, comprising: Determining a printing orientation; Printing an image on the label in the printing orientation; Dispensing the printed label; Determining an application orientation; and Applying the label to the article in the application orientation; Wherein the printing orientation and the application orientation are determined based on an indication of the image quality associated with the label.

28. The method according to claim 27, further comprising: Determining data indicative of the image quality based on the indication of the image quality.

29. A method of applying a label to an article, comprising: Determining a printing orientation, the determining including selecting the printing orientation from a first printing orientation and a second printing orientation; Printing an image including an image component on the label in the printing orientation; Dispensing the printed label; Determining an application orientation, the determining including selecting from a first application orientation and a second application orientation; and Applying the label to the article in the application orientation; Wherein the printing orientation and the application orientation are determined such that the image component has a predetermined orientation when applied to the article.

30. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, further comprising: Determining data indicative of the image quality associated with the label, and Determining the printing orientation and the application orientation based on the data indicative of the image quality.

31. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein: When the printing orientation is the first printing orientation, the application orientation is the first application orientation; and When the printing orientation is the second printing orientation, the application orientation is the second application orientation; The method includes: Printing a first label in the first printing orientation; Generating sensor data indicative of the characteristics of the image printed on the first label; Determining data indicative of the image quality based on the sensor data; and If the data indicative of the image quality meets a predetermined printing standard: Determining that the printing orientation is the first printing orientation and the application orientation is the first application orientation; and Applying the printed label in the first application orientation.

32. The method according to claim 31, comprising: If the data indicative of the image quality does not meet the predetermined printing standard, then: Discarding the first printed label; Printing a second label in the second printing orientation; Determining that the printing orientation is the second printing orientation and the application orientation is the second application orientation; and Applying the second printed label in the second application orientation.

Images