Device for labeling containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (10) for labeling containers. The device (10) has: a labeling device (12) having a labeling unit (14) for labeling the containers; and a supply device (24) connected to the labeling unit (14) for feeding a label tape to the labeling unit (14). The supply device (24) has a robotic operating unit (26) which is arranged at a distance from the labeling unit (14). The robot operating unit (26) has a roll storage unit (34), a roll receiving device (36), and a robot (52) configured to automatically load a label roll from the roll storage unit (34) to the roll receiving device (36).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an apparatus for labeling containers, the apparatus comprising a supply device for supplying a label tape for labeling containers to a labeling device. Background Art

[0002] The container processing facility may include a labeling device for labeling the container. For example, the labeling device may label the container with a label from a label roll (label material roll).

[0003] Traditionally, the label roll is manually refilled by an operator. The user may have to perform additional tasks, such as cutting the label tape to the correct position, applying double-sided tape to the label tape, or inserting the label tape into an automatic glue applicator.

[0004] DE 10 2021 125 133 A1 describes a mobile robot, a supply system and a method for changing a label roll on a labeling unit for labeling containers. The mobile robot thus comprises a transport unit for changing the robot position and a manipulator unit having a multi-axis manipulator and an associated end effector for manipulating the label roll. Since the end effector is designed to grip the outer circumference of the label roll and the empty roll core of the label roll in order to transport them, ergonomically problematic work steps when refilling the label roll can be performed solely by the machine with high precision and in a material-saving manner.

[0005] EP 3 760 550 A1 describes a transfer unit for feeding a roll of labeling material to a labeling module configured to apply labels to an object. The transfer unit comprises a support element configured to support a plurality of rolls arranged vertically in at least one stack. The transfer unit also has a robot arm configured such that it removes at least one roll from the stack at a gripping station and releases the roll at a releasing station.

[0006] The invention is based on the object of providing a labelling device for supplying label rolls in an improved manner. Summary of the invention

[0007] This object is achieved by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous developments are specified in the dependent claims and in the description.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to an apparatus for labeling a container (e.g., for a container processing facility). The apparatus has a labeling device, preferably a rotary labeling device, which has a labeling unit for labeling the container. The apparatus has a supply device, which is connected to the labeling unit for feeding a label tape to the labeling unit. The supply device has a robot operating unit, which is arranged at a distance from the labeling unit. The robot operating unit has a roll storage unit, which is used to store label rolls. The robot operating unit also has a roll receiving device, which is used to receive and unfold at least one label roll to form the label tape for feeding to the labeling unit. The robot operating unit also has a robot (e.g., with or without a collaborative function), preferably a multi-axis robot, and particularly preferably an articulated arm robot. The robot is configured to automatically load the roll receiving device with a label roll from the roll storage unit.

[0009] On the one hand, the device can advantageously achieve a very high degree of automation. A robot (rather than a dedicated automated single device) can advantageously perform as many tasks as possible, which can lead in particular to advantages in terms of cost and flexibility. On the other hand, the device advantageously achieves that the robot, etc., does not impair the accessibility of the labeling unit due to a spaced arrangement. This means, for example, that maintenance or adjustment work on the labeling unit can be carried out effortlessly and with very good accessibility. Advantageously, there is also no need to carefully keep the area directly in front of the labeling unit clear, as in the prior art according to DE 10 2021 125 133 A1, so that parking space can always be provided for the mobile robot. Advantageously, the robot operating unit can also achieve high performance of a supply device, which can, for example, also supply more than one labeling device. In this case, the robot operating unit can, for example, install several roll receiving devices, because the spatial conditions there are not tight due to the fact that the several roll receiving devices are located directly at the labeling unit.

[0010] In one embodiment, the supply device also has a label tape buffer, which is connected to the roll receiving device for receiving the label tape from the roll receiving device and is connected to the labeling unit for feeding the label tape to the labeling unit. The label tape buffer is designed to buffer the received label tape and distribute the buffered label tape for feeding to the labeling unit. Preferably, the label tape buffer can be arranged inside or outside the optional protective housing of the robot operating unit. This makes it possible to ensure a continuous supply of label tape even during, for example, joining two label tapes together.

[0011] In another embodiment, the device further comprises a belt guide bridge, which connects the supply device and the labeling unit for guiding the label tape to the labeling unit. Preferably, the belt guide bridge can be arranged outside the optional protective housing of the robot operating unit. Advantageously, the belt guide bridge can be used to easily supply the labeling unit, which is arranged at a certain distance and does not block the walking or driving path between the labeling unit and the supply device.

[0012] In one embodiment, the robotic operating unit is spaced at least far enough from the labeling unit so that the labeling unit can be disengaged from the labeling device and moved away (e.g., pushed away). Alternatively or additionally, the minimum distance between the robotic operating unit and the labeling unit may be ≥1m, ≥1.5m, ≥2m, ≥3m, ≥4m, or ≥5m. Alternatively or additionally, a walking or driving path may extend between the robotic operating unit and the labeling unit.

[0013] In another embodiment, the labeling device has another labeling unit for labeling containers. The supply device is connected to the additional labeling unit for feeding the additional label tape to the additional labeling unit. The robot operating unit is arranged at a distance from the other labeling unit and also has another roll receiving device, which is used to receive and unfold at least one other label roll to form the other label tape for feeding to the other labeling unit. The robot is configured to automatically load the additional roll receiving device with the label roll from the roll storage unit. Advantageously, a single robot can therefore supply label rolls to several labeling units. The robot operating unit makes it unnecessary for the robot to move between two labeling units, which is complicated and time-consuming. On the contrary, the robot can advantageously ensure the supply of the labeling unit from a single location. Therefore, the robot operating unit can achieve high overall performance of the supply device.

[0014] In one variation, at least one of the following is satisfied:

[0015] - the supply device has a further label tape buffer, which is connected to the further roll receiving device for receiving the further label tape from the further roll receiving device and is connected to the further labeling unit for feeding the further label tape to the further labeling unit, wherein the further label tape buffer is designed to buffer the received further label tape and distribute the buffered further label tape for feeding to the further labeling unit;

[0016] The device also has another tape guiding bridge, which connects the supply device and the other labeling unit and is used to guide the other label tape to the other labeling unit;

[0017] - the robot operating unit is spaced apart from the other labeling unit by at least a sufficient distance so that the other labeling unit can be disengaged from the labeling device and moved away (e.g., pushed away);

[0018] -The minimum distance between the robot operation unit and another labeling unit is ≥1m,

[0019] ≥1.5m, ≥2m, ≥3m, ≥4m or ≥5m; and

[0020] An operating or travel path extends between the robotic handling unit and the further labelling unit.

[0021] In another embodiment, the roll receiving device and the further roll receiving device are respectively oriented towards the robot, preferably respectively oriented radially relative to the (e.g. fixed) base of the robot and / or are respectively arranged equidistantly from the robot. Advantageously, the robot can thus perform essentially the same movement to load the roll socket, so that essentially one-time programming of the robot movement is sufficient to load several roll receiving devices and also to cover several configurations of the robot operating unit (e.g. fixed robot, robot on a linear axis, variable position of the roll socket, different number of roll sockets, etc.). For example, if the robot is movably attached to a linear axis, the robot base has a plurality of working positions and thus the distance and orientation of the roll receiving devices can be varied within a certain range.

[0022] In one embodiment, the roll receiving device and / or the further roll receiving device (each) has: two roll receptacles, preferably roll plates, oriented preferably horizontally or vertically; and a connection head, which is designed to connect the tape end of the label roll from one of the two roll receptacles to the tape start of the label roll from the other of the two roll receptacles. Preferably, the robot can also be configured to feed the tape start to the connection head and / or apply adhesive tape to the tape start. This can advantageously achieve an uninterrupted supply of label tape and a safe and fast connection of the label tape. Advantageously, the horizontal orientation of the roll receptacles can facilitate loading by the robot.

[0023] In another embodiment, the robot operating unit further comprises a protective housing which surrounds the roll storage unit, the roll receiving device and the robot. Alternatively or additionally, the robot operating unit further comprises a system for generating at least one signal curtain, preferably a light curtain or a laser curtain, for defining the robot operating unit (e.g. on one side or on multiple sides), wherein the system is preferably designed to generate the signal curtain in front of the roll storage unit so that the roll storage unit is accessible from outside the robot operating unit. Advantageously, the protective housing and / or the signal curtain enable the robot to achieve very high speeds and dynamics, since there is no danger to people in the surrounding area. This means that the robot operating unit can be operated at very high performance levels, which can, for example, supply more than one labeling device. However, it is also possible, for example, to completely allocate the protective housing and the signal curtain and to operate the robot as a collaborative industrial robot (cobot). The signal curtain can advantageously be used to simplify the loading of the roll storage unit with label rolls, for example using a pallet truck or an automated guided vehicle (AGV).

[0024] In one embodiment, the robot operating unit further has a tool changing station, which is preferably arranged in an optional protective housing of the robot operating unit. The robot is configured to perform an automatic tool change at the tool changing station. Optionally, the robot can be configured to perform an automatic tool change between different operating tools at the tool changing station, preferably having: at least one roll handling tool, preferably an in-roll gripper, the at least one roll handling tool for handling a label roll, and / or at least one tape start handling tool, the at least one tape start handling tool for handling the tape start of a label roll. Thus, the robot can advantageously use different gripper types and different grippers of the same type (e.g. different tape start grippers for low label rolls and high label rolls).

[0025] In another embodiment, the robot is a stationary robot, or the robot is movable within the robot handling unit, preferably along linear axes and / or in a rail-guided manner.

[0026] In a design variant, the roll receiving device can (also) be manually loaded with label rolls. Preferably, the robot operating unit may also have a (unobstructed) personnel movement area between the roll storage unit and the roll receiving device, for an operator to manually load the label roll to the roll receiving device (e.g. when the robot is defective, undergoing maintenance or out of service).

[0027] In one embodiment, the robotic operating unit further has a (e.g. fixed or robot-borne) inspection device (e.g. with a camera, a capacitive sensor and / or an ultrasonic sensor), which is e.g. arranged in a protective housing and / or is configured to test the label roll, preferably with respect to at least one of the following:

[0028] - winding direction,

[0029] - the position and / or status of the tape start;

[0030] -type,

[0031] -diameter,

[0032] - Deviations from the specified roll parameters (e.g. label protrusion beyond the core, dimensions, weight, etc.), and

[0033] -damage.

[0034] In another embodiment, the robot operating unit also has a label roll buffer, which is used for the intermediate storage of the tested label rolls, and the label roll buffer is preferably arranged in an optional protective housing of the robot operating unit. This is conducive to the temporary storage of the tested label rolls.

[0035] In one embodiment, the robot is configured to rotate the label roll according to the winding direction of the label roll previously detected by the testing device. Advantageously, the robot is thus able to feed the label roll to the roll receiving device in the correct winding direction without having to take special measures to ensure that the label roll has been placed on the roll storage unit in the correct orientation.

[0036] In another embodiment, the robot has a tape dispenser for dispensing tape, preferably double-sided tape, for connecting the label tape. This facilitates the use of a single tape dispenser for several connection heads of the roll receiving device. This is particularly advantageous in combination with several roll receiving devices arranged in a defined manner relative to the robot, since the programming effort of the robot can be significantly reduced.

[0037] In one embodiment, the robotic operating unit further has a detection device (e.g., a system for generating at least one signal curtain), the detection device being configured to detect an intrusion of the robotic operating unit by a user, and upon detection of the intrusion:

[0038] - stopping (e.g., just stopping) the robot or changing the operation of the robot from an autonomous operation mode to a collaborative operation mode; and / or

[0039] - Allow the roll receiving device to continue to operate.

[0040] Advantageously, when entering the operating unit, only the robot can be stopped or switched to a mode that is safe for the user. However, the roll support device and the connection head (if applicable) can continue to be used without modification, since they do not pose any danger to the operator. This means that production is not immediately interrupted when entering the robot operating unit. Alternatively, the robot can be operated as a collaborative robot that allows to continue working at a reduced speed of the robot, for example even when the protective housing of the robot operating unit is open.

[0041] Preferably, the supply device can be constructed modularly and / or the at least one roll receiving device and the robot each have their own control device. Modularity can advantageously make it possible to provide different supply devices with different levels of automation. Preferably, the robot operating unit may not have a central control cabinet. Instead, each component can have its own control device, which advantageously improves modularity and simplifies subsequent modifications or conversions.

[0042] Another aspect of the invention relates to a container processing facility (e.g. for temperature control, production, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, closing, pasteurization, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking and / or packaging of containers for liquid or pasty media (preferably beverages, liquid foods or products of the pharmaceutical industry or the healthcare industry). The container processing facility may have an apparatus for labeling as disclosed herein.

[0043] For example, the container may be realized as a bottle, a jar, a cartridge, a carton, a vial, a tube, or the like.

[0044] Preferably, the term "control device" may refer to an electronic system (e.g., embodied as a drive circuit or having a microprocessor and a data memory) and / or a mechanical, pneumatic and / or hydraulic controller which can take over control tasks and / or regulation tasks and / or processing tasks according to the design. Although the term "control" is used herein, this may also include or be understood as "regulation" or "feedback control" and / or "processing".

[0045] The preferred embodiments and features of the present invention described above may be combined with one another as desired. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Further details and advantages of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings:

[0047] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an apparatus for labeling containers according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 2 schematically shows a plan view of a supply device for supplying a labelling device;

[0049] Figure 3 A perspective view of a robot showing an exemplary supply device;

[0050] Figure 4 Shows that with Figure 3 perspective views of exemplary robots with different manipulation tools in FIG. 1 ; and

[0051] Figure 5 A plan view of a supply device for supplying a labelling device is shown.

[0052] The embodiments shown in the drawings correspond at least partially, so that similar or identical components have the same reference numerals, and reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or drawings for their explanation in order to avoid repetitions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Figure 1 An apparatus 10 for labelling containers is shown. The apparatus 10 has a labelling device 12 and a supply device 24. The apparatus 10 may be comprised in a container processing facility.

[0054] The labeling device 12 can label the container. For example, the labeling device 12 can include at least one labeling unit 14, 16. The at least one labeling unit 14, 16 can be designed to apply a label from a label tape to the container.

[0055] At least one labeling unit 14, 16 may be replaceably coupled to and detached from the periphery of the labeling device 12, for example via a preferably tool-free quick coupling mechanism. Preferably, several labeling units 14, 16 are included, which are positioned spaced apart from each other on the periphery. Preferably, at least one labeling unit 14, 16 may have a roll for moving on the floor of the facility when detached from the labeling device 12.

[0056] Preferably, the labeling device 12 can be a rotary labeling device. The drive of the labeling device 12 can rotate a rotatable turntable of the labeling device 12. The containers can be kept at a certain distance from each other on the circumference of the turntable in the processing station and labeled. Alternatively, the labeling device 12 can be designed, for example, as a linear labeling device, for example, with only one processing station or with several processing stations arranged adjacent to each other and / or one after another in a row.

[0057] Preferably, the labeling device 12 can be connected to at least one further container handling device via a container transport system 18. The container transport system 18 can, for example, have at least one transport star wheel and / or at least one linear transport device.

[0058] Preferably, the labelling device 12 is connectable to a supply device 24 via at least one (label) tape guiding bridge 20, 22. The (unrolled) label tape can be fed from the supply device 24 to the labelling device 12 via at least one tape guiding bridge 20, 22.

[0059] In detail, at least one labeling unit 14, 16 can be connected to the supply device 24 via at least one tape guide bridge 20, 22. At least one label tape can be guided from the supply device 24 to the at least one labeling unit via at least one tape guide bridge 20, 22. For example, the first labeling unit 14 can be connected to the supply device 24 via the first tape guide bridge 20. The second labeling unit 16 can be connected to the supply device 24 via the second tape guide bridge 22.

[0060] Preferably, at least one belt-guided bridge 20, 22 can be operated at a height higher than at least one labeling unit 14, 16. When uncoupling and coupling at least one labeling unit 14, 16, at least one belt-guided bridge 20, 22 can be driven by the corresponding labeling unit 14, 16. For example, a user can also pass under at least one belt-guided bridge 20, 22, or an automated guided vehicle (AGV) can also pass under at least one belt-guided bridge 20, 22. For example, at least one belt-guided bridge 20, 22 can be operated at a height of ≥1.50m, ≥2.0m or ≥2.5m.

[0061] Preferably, at least one tape guiding bridge 20 , 22 extends substantially straight between the respective labeling unit 14 , 16 and the supply device 24 .

[0062] The tape guiding bridges 20, 22 may be tunnel-shaped or channel-shaped, for example. Preferably, the tape guiding bridges 20, 22 may have sliding surfaces for slidingly supporting the label tape and / or lateral guiding elements for lateral guiding of the label tape.

[0063] The tape guiding bridges 20, 22 may at least partially bridge the distance between the at least one labelling unit 14, 16 and the supply device 24. For example, the tape guiding bridges 20, 22 may have a length in the range between 1 m and 10 m.

[0064] Figure 1 and 2 A supply device 24 is shown. The supply device 24 supplies at least one labeling tape for labeling containers to the labeling device 12. The supply device 24 can supply at least one further labeling tape for labeling containers to at least one further labeling device.

[0065] The supply device 24 has a robot operating unit 26, which has a roll storage unit 34, at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 and a robot 52. Optionally, the robot operating unit 26 can also have, for example, a protective housing 28, at least one label tape buffer 48, 50, a personnel movement area 46, a tool change station 64, a test device 68 and / or a label roll buffer 70.

[0066] The robot operating unit 26 is arranged at a distance from the labeling units 14, 16. Preferably, there may be enough space between the robot operating unit 26 and at least one labeling unit 14, 16 so that at least one person is present and / or so that at least one labeling unit 14, 16 can be coupled and uncoupled. For example, the minimum distance between the robot operating unit 26 and at least one labeling unit 14, 16 may be ≥1m, ≥1.5m, ≥2m, ≥3m, ≥4m or ≥5m.

[0067] The (physical) protective housing 28 of the robot operating unit 26 can accommodate the roll storage unit 34, the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 and the robot 52, and optionally also accommodate the personnel movement area 46, the tool change station 64, the test device 68 and / or the label roll buffer 70. Preferably, the protective housing 28 completely surrounds the roll storage unit 34, the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 and the robot 52, and optionally surrounds the personnel movement area 46, the tool change station 64, the test device 68 and / or the label roll buffer 70. The robot operating unit 26 and / or the protective housing 28 can be rectangular / box-shaped, for example.

[0068] The protective cover 28 can have, for example, a protective fence or a protective wall.

[0069] Preferably, the protective housing 28 may have at least one door 30 for access to the robot operating unit 26 or the protective housing 28. The door 30 may be integrated in the protective housing 28, for example.

[0070] Preferably, the robot operating unit 26 can have a system 32 for generating at least one signal curtain. The signal curtain can be, for example, a light curtain or a laser curtain. The signal curtain can be arranged or generated, for example, in such a way that the roll storage unit 34 is accessible from outside the robot operating unit 26. Preferably, the signal curtain can be generated directly beside (in front of) the roll storage unit 34.

[0071] Preferably, the system 32 can generate at least one further signal curtain, which is arranged so that the tool change station 64, the test device 68 and / or the label roll buffer 70 are accessible from outside the robot operating unit 26. Preferably, the signal curtain can be generated directly next to (in front of) the tool change station 64, the test device 68 and / or the label roll buffer 70.

[0072] The intrusion of the user into the robot operating unit 26 can be detected by means of a detection device. For example, the system 32 can be part of the detection device. Alternatively or additionally, the detection device can, for example, monitor the closing state of the door 30. Alternatively or additionally, the detection device can, for example, perform internal monitoring of the robot operating unit 26, preferably using a camera.

[0073] If the detection device detects an intrusion into the robot operating unit 26, the detection device can preferably only stop the robot 52 and allow other devices of the robot operating unit 26 to continue to operate, such as at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 and optionally its connection head 44. The detection device can also change the operating mode of the robot 52 from an autonomous operating mode, in which the robot 52 loads at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 completely autonomously and at high speed, to a collaborative operating mode, in which the robot 52 operates as a collaborative robot.

[0074] The roll storage unit 34 can be arranged inside the optional protective housing 28. For example, the roll storage unit 34 can be designed as a workbench on which label rolls can be stored or as a conveyor on which label rolls are stored. However, the roll storage unit 34 can also be, for example, just a tray storage location for setting down a tray loaded with label rolls, or some other storage location for at least one label roll.

[0075] The roll storage unit 34 can be refilled with label rolls manually, for example by a user, for example by a pallet truck or a forklift. Alternatively or additionally, the label rolls can be refilled at the roll storage unit, for example automatically using an automated guided vehicle (AGV). Preferably, the user, pallet truck, forklift and / or automated guided vehicle can reach the roll storage unit through a signal curtain of the system 32.

[0076] The roll storage unit 34 may be arranged within a moving range of the robot 52. The robot 52 may pick up a label roll located on the roll storage unit 34.

[0077] At least one roll receiving device 36, 38 may be disposed within the optional protective housing 28. The at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 is designed to receive at least one label roll and unwind the at least one received label roll to form a label strip for feeding to the labeling device 12.

[0078] Preferably, several (e.g. two) roll receiving devices 36, 38 may be included. For example, the roll receiving device 36 may be connected to the labeling unit 14 for feeding the label tape to the labeling unit 14 via the tape guide bridge 20. Another roll receiving device 38 may be connected to another labeling unit 16 for feeding the label tape to another labeling unit 16 via another tape guide bridge 22.

[0079] Preferably, the roll receiving devices 36, 38 can be oriented toward the robot 52, respectively. Particularly preferably, the roll receiving devices 36, 38 can be oriented relative to the robot 52, respectively (at Figure 2 The base of the roll receiving device 36 (shown as an example in the figure) is radially oriented. Alternatively or additionally, for example, the roll receiving devices 36, 38 can be arranged equidistantly from the robot 52.

[0080] Preferably, the roll receiving devices 36 , 38 have in each case a first roll receptacle 40 and a second roll receptacle 42 and optionally a connecting head 44 .

[0081] The roll receptacles 40 , 42 can each hold a label roll, for example a label roll delivered by a robot 52 .

[0082] Preferably, the roll receptacles 40, 42 are oriented horizontally. Alternatively, the roll receptacles 40, 42 may be oriented, for example, vertically.

[0083] Preferably, the roll receptacles 40, 42 can be designed as so-called roll plates. Alternatively, the roll receptacles 40, 42 can be designed, for example, as drawers.

[0084] The connector 44 may be designed to connect the tape end of a label roll on the roll receptacle 40 to the tape start end of another label roll on the roll receptacle 42 (or vice versa).

[0085] The connector 44 can be designed as an adhesive connector, for example. The adhesive connector can bond the tape start and tape end together, for example by applying a spray adhesive or by means of an adhesive strip (tape). Preferably, the adhesive strip is a double-sided adhesive tape. The adhesive strip can be applied, for example, by the connector 44 itself and can, for example, have been applied, for example, by a robot 52, at the tape end or tape start.

[0086] Alternatively, the connector 44 can be designed as a welding connector, for example. The welding connector can heat-weld the belt start end and the belt end end together or weld them together by ultrasonic welding.

[0087] Preferably, the roll receptacles 40, 42 can be loaded with label rolls not only by the robot 52 but also manually by the user. For this purpose, the user can, for example, move in the personnel movement area 46 specially provided for this purpose in the robot operating unit 26. The user can also operate the connecting head 44, for example, from within the personnel movement area 46.

[0088] The personnel movement area 46 may preferably be arranged between the roll storage unit 34 and the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38. Preferably, the robot 52 is stopped (e.g. by a detection device) when a person is in the personnel movement area 46. Alternatively, the robot 52 may, for example, be operated so that the robot does not intervene in the personnel movement area 46 when a person is in the personnel movement area 46, or so that the robot cooperates with a person in the personnel movement area 46 in a cooperative operation mode.

[0089] At least one label tape buffer 48, 50 is designed to receive and buffer label tape from at least one of the roll receiving devices 36, 38 and redistribute the buffered label tape. The dispensed label tape can be fed to the labeling device 12.

[0090] For example, the label tape buffer 48 can receive the label tape unwound from the roll receiving device 36, buffer it and distribute it, and preferably feed it to the labeling unit 14 via the tape guide bridge 20. Another label tape buffer 50 can receive the label tape unwound from another roll receiving device 36, buffer it and distribute it, and preferably feed it to another labeling unit 16 via another tape guide bridge 22.

[0091] The at least one label tape buffer 48, 50 may be arranged inside or outside the optional protective housing 28. Thus, the at least one label tape buffer 48, 50 may or may not be part of the robotic manipulation unit 26.

[0092] The robot 52 may be arranged inside the optional protective housing 28. The robot 52 is designed to automatically load the label roll from the roll storage unit 34 to the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38. The robot 52 may, for example, load the label roll directly from the roll storage unit 34 to the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38. Alternatively, the robot 52 may load the label roll to the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 only after testing and / or turning and / or intermediate storage.

[0093] Preferably, the robot 52 is a multi-axis robot, particularly preferably an articulated arm robot. For example, the articulated arm robot can be a 5-axis, 6-axis or 7-axis articulated arm robot. Other robot types are also conceivable.

[0094] The robot 52 may be an industrial robot without a collaborative function. Alternatively, the robot 52 may be a collaborative industrial robot (cooperative robot) that can collaborate with a user, for example. For example, the robot 52 lifts and moves the label tape to at least one roll receiving device 36, 38, and the user operates the connector 44.

[0095] Preferably, the robot base of the robot 52 can be attached in the robot handling unit 26 in such a way that it can be easily exchanged or adapted by means of an adapter plate. Preferably, in this way, different robot types or manufacturers can be used. Preferably, the robot 52 can be exchanged with a simple handling device such as a pallet truck. For example, if only relatively light label rolls are moved, a (low-cost) robot 52 with a low payload can be used. If it is desired to upgrade to a robot 52 with a higher payload, a simple conversion is possible due to the design of the robot base. Preferably, the robot controller (control cabinet) is then designed in such a way that it does not have to be exchanged together with the robot.

[0096] Preferably, the robot 52 is arranged in a fixed manner in the robot operating unit 26. For example, the robot 52 can be arranged in a central position or a central area in the robot operating unit 26, such as Figure 1 and 2 shown.

[0097] However, the robot 52 can also be moved within the robot operating unit 26, preferably along a linear axis and / or in a track-guided manner. For example, the track can extend diagonally through the robot operating unit 26 or centrally between two opposite sides of the robot operating unit 26.

[0098] The robot 52 may include a roll handling tool 54 for handling the label roll (see also Figure 3 ). The operating tool 54 can pick up and put down the label roll. Preferably, the operating tool 54 can be driven pneumatically.

[0099] The operating tool 54 may be structurally adapted to the roll receptacles 40, 42 so that the operating tool 54 can transfer the label roll to the corresponding roll receptacles 40, 42 as required. For example, the operating tool 54 may be adapted to the corresponding clamping shafts of the roll receptacles 40, 42.

[0100] Preferably, the handling tool 54 is designed as a roll clamp. Preferably, the roll clamp is designed as an inner clamp, for example a central clamp, for clamping the label roll from the inside at the roll core. In addition, the roll clamp can optionally have a clamping device 56. The clamping device 56 can fix the internally clamped label roll from the outside by lightly clamping. Preferably, the clamping device can be used for label rolls that have a tendency to telescope and / or to fix loose tape ends.

[0101] The handling tool 54 or the robot 52 may have at least one sensor. For example, a camera 58 may be included for detecting the position of a label roll to be clamped, for example on the roll storage unit 34. Alternatively or additionally, for example, at least one distance sensor 60 may be included for detecting the distance and / or orientation of a label roll to be clamped or already clamped.

[0102] Preferably, the sensor system of the robot 52 can also be used when commissioning the supply device 24, for example to determine the position of one or more components (e.g., the roll storage unit 34; the roll receiving devices 36, 38; the roll sockets 40, 42 and / or the connector 44, etc.). This advantageously eliminates the need for laborious adjustments and calibrations during commissioning.

[0103] Preferably, the robot 52 may be designed to rotate the label roll by operating the tool 54. Preferably, the label roll may thus be rotated if necessary such that the winding direction of the label roll corresponds to the desired winding direction of the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38.

[0104] Preferably, the robot 52 can automatically move the roll handling tool 54 (see Figure 3 ) is replaced with a starting operation tool 62 (see Figure 4 The robot 52 may have an automatic tool changing system, preferably a gripper changing system, for changing between the roll handling tool 54 and the tape start handling tool 62. It is also possible to switch between different sizes and / or versions of the same gripper type, for example to facilitate retrofitting.

[0105] Preferably, the robot 52 can replace the operating tools 54 and 62 at the tool replacement station 64 (see Figure 1 and 2 ). The tool changing station 64 may be arranged in an optional protective housing 28. An operating tool 54 or 62 that is not currently used by the robot 52 may be placed at the tool changing station 64 by the robot 52. Subsequently, the placed operating tool 54 or 62 may be picked up again by the robot 52 from the tool changing station 64 to exchange for a corresponding other operating tool 54 or 62.

[0106] In principle, however, the robot 52 can also carry two handling tools 54 , 62 simultaneously, for example as a combination gripper (not shown in the figures).

[0107] Figure 4 The tape start end operation tool 62 shown as an example in FIG. 6 is designed to operate the tape start end of the label roll. Using the operation tool 62, the tape start end of the label roll received in the roll receiving device 36, 38 can be guided to the connection head 44.

[0108] Optionally, the operating tool 62 can cut the tape start of the label roll if, for example, the connecting head 44 does not have such a function.

[0109] Optionally, the handling tool 62 may apply adhesive or tape to the beginning of the tape of the label roll if, for example, the connection head 44 does not have such functionality and the robot 52 does not have a tape dispenser.

[0110] Optionally, the operating tool 62 can detect the cut mark on the label tape if, for example, the connection head 44 does not have a tape dispenser with such a function.

[0111] Preferably, the handling tool 62 is designed as a belt gripper. For example, the handling tool 62 may have a bellows suction gripper or a clamping device for firmly picking up the beginning end of the belt.

[0112] The handling tool 62 may have means for receiving and handling the outer tape layer unwound from the label roll.

[0113] Preferably, the robot 52 may have a tape dispenser 66 (see Figure 3 and 4 ). The tape dispenser 66 may be designed to dispense tape for connecting label tapes, preferably double-sided tape.

[0114] For example, the tape start end of the label roll received in the roll receiving device 36, 38 can be guided to the tape dispenser 66 by the operating tool 62 to apply the tape to the tape start end. For example, by aligning the tape start end of the tape using the cutting mark of the label tape detected by the cutting mark sensor of the tape dispenser 66, the tape can be applied to a precise position.

[0115] The tape start end thus processed can then be guided by the handling tool 62 to the connecting head 44 which connects the tape start end to the tape end of another label roll which has been used up or has begun to be used.

[0116] Preferably, the tape dispenser 66 may be the only tape dispenser of the supply device 24. Tape from the tape dispenser 66 may thus be used for all connection heads 44 or roll receiving devices 36, 38. Alternatively, for example, each connection head 44 may include one tape dispenser.

[0117] Reference again Figure 1 and Figure 2 , showing that the test device 68 may be, for example, a fixed test device. Alternatively, for example, the test device 68 may be carried on the robot 52.

[0118] The test device 68 can be designed to test the label roll with respect to winding direction, position of the start of tape, status of the start of tape (a preliminary check result as to whether the start of tape can be successfully picked up (so that timing-critical interference can be avoided later when the roll is changed)), type, diameter, deviation from specified roll parameters (for example, label protrusion beyond the core, size, weight, etc.) and / or damage.

[0119] The test device 68 may have any suitable sensor technology for testing. For example, the test device 68 may have a camera, a capacitive sensor, and / or an ultrasonic sensor.

[0120] The tested label roll can then be placed on the label roll buffer 70, for example by the robot 52. The robot 52 loads the tested label roll from the label roll buffer 70 to the at least one roll receiving device 36, 38.

[0121] The label roll buffer 70 can be arranged in the optional protective housing 28. For example, the label roll buffer 70 can be designed as a workbench on which the label roll to be tested can be placed. However, for example, the label roll buffer 70 can also be just a tray storage location for placing down a tray loaded with label rolls, or some other storage location for at least one label roll.

[0122] Particularly preferably, the supply device 24 can be of modular design.

[0123] For example, the tape guide bridges 20 and / or 22 can be composed of several bridge section modules. The protective housing 28 can be composed of several wall modules. The roll storage unit 34 can be designed, for example, as a pallet storage module for a pallet truck and / or as a pallet storage module for an automated guided vehicle. In each case, at least one roll receiving device 36, 38 can be a module. In each case, at least one label tape buffer 48, 50 can be a module. The robot 52 can be a module. The tool changing station 64, the tape dispenser 66, the test device 68 and / or the label roll buffer 70 can all be modules.

[0124] Preferably, each module may have its own control device. The control devices of the modules may be distributed in the robot operating unit 26 accordingly.

[0125] A preferred method for supplying a labelling device 12 may, for example, have one, several or all of the following method steps.

[0126] The robot 52 may pick up a label roll from the roll storage unit 34 using a roll handling tool 54. The robot 52 may move the label roll to a testing device 68. The label roll may be tested by the testing device 68. For example, the testing device may detect the tape start of the label roll and / or the winding direction of the label roll. If necessary, if the detected winding direction does not correspond to the desired winding direction, the label roll may be rotated by the robot 52 using the roll handling tool 54. The tested and rotated (if necessary) label roll may be placed on the label roll buffer 70 by the robot 52 via the roll handling tool 54, wherein the tape start is preferably oriented as desired. The robot 52 may repeat the previous steps until the label roll buffer 70 is fully filled.

[0127] If necessary, the robot 52 can remove an empty or opened label roll from one of the roll receptacles 40, 42. The roll core can be disposed of. The opened label roll can be stored in a separate place.

[0128] The robot 52 can place a new label roll, for example from a label roll buffer 70 , via a roll handling tool 54 , onto one of the roll receptacles 40 , 42 , preferably with the desired orientation of the tape start.

[0129] The robot 52 can be changed from the roll handling tool 54 to the tape start handling tool 62, for example, at the tool change station 64. The tape start handling tool 62 can be used to pick up the tape start of the label roll. If necessary, the outermost layer of the label tape can be unwound from the label roll and picked up by the tape start handling tool 62. The picked tape start can be fed to the tape dispenser 66 by the robot 52 via the tape start handling tool 62. At the tape dispenser 66, the correct position on the label tape for applying the adhesive strip can be determined by the cut mark detection system, and the strip can be applied. The robot 52 can move the tape start treated in this way to the connection head 44 via the tape start handling tool 62. The label tape can be cut by the connection head 44 or the tape start handling tool 62 and transferred to the connection head 44 by the tape start handling tool 62. The robot 52 can dispose of the remaining label tape still located on the tape start handling tool 62. The robot 52 can switch from the tape start handling tool 62 back to the roll handling tool 54, for example, at the tool change station 64.

[0130] Figure 5 A modified supply device 24 ′ is shown.

[0131] For example, the roll receptacles 40', 42' of the roll receiving devices 36', 38' may be oriented vertically. Each roll receiving device 36', 38' may also comprise more than two roll receptacles 40', 42'. Preferably, the roll receptacles 40', 42' are designed as drawers.

[0132] For example, each roll receiving device 36', 38' may have its own tape dispenser. The robot 52 may load the label roll into one of the roll receptacles 40', 42'. The robot 52 or another device may pick up the tape start of the label roll and place it in a suction device on the roll receiving device 36', 38'. The tape may be applied without the intervention of the robot 52 by the device on the corresponding roll receiving device 36', 38' and the device on the tape dispenser. The connection head may be used again for gluing.

[0133] The present invention is not limited to the preferred exemplary embodiments described above. On the contrary, there are numerous variants and modifications which likewise exploit the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the present invention also claims the subject matter and features of the dependent claims, regardless of the claims to which they refer. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. Furthermore, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the labeling device, labeling unit, supply device, robot operating unit, roll storage unit, roll receiving device and / or robot of independent claim 1. All ranges specified herein are to be understood as being disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the respective ranges are disclosed individually, for example also as respective preferred narrower outer limits of the respective ranges.

[0134] Reference numerals list

[0135] 10 Equipment for labeling containers

[0136] 12 Labeling device

[0137] 14 Labeling units

[0138] 16 Labeling units

[0139] 18 Container conveyor system

[0140] 20 with guide bridge

[0141] 22 with guide bridge

[0142] 24 Feeding device

[0143] 26 Robotic operating unit

[0144] 28 Protective housing

[0145] 30 doors

[0146] 32System for generating a signal curtain

[0147] 34 Volume Storage Unit

[0148] 36 roll receiving device

[0149] 38 roll receiving device

[0150] 40 roll socket

[0151] 42 roll socket

[0152] 44 Connector

[0153] 46 Personnel Movement Area

[0154] 48 Label with buffer

[0155] 50 Label with Buffer

[0156] 52 Robot

[0157] 54 Volume Operation Tools

[0158] 56 Clamping device

[0159] 58 Camera

[0160] 60 Distance Sensor

[0161] 62 with starter tool

[0162] 64 Tool changing stations

[0163] 66 Tape Dispenser

[0164] 68 Test Device

[0165] 70 Label Roll Buffer

Claims

1. A device (10) for labeling containers, comprising: a labeling device (12), preferably a rotary labeling device, comprising a labeling unit (14) for labeling the container; and a supply device (24), which is connected to the labeling unit (14) and is used to feed the label tape to the labeling unit (14), The supply device (24) has a robot operating unit (26), which is arranged at a certain distance from the labeling unit (14) and has: - a roll storage unit (34) for storing a label roll; - a roll receiving device (36) for receiving and unwinding at least one label roll to form the label strip for feeding into the labeling unit (14); - a robot (52), preferably a multi-axis robot, particularly preferably an articulated arm robot, The robot (52) is configured to automatically load label rolls from the roll storage unit (34) to the roll receiving device (36).

2. The device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the supply device (24) further comprises: a label tape buffer (48), the label tape buffer being connected to the roll receiving device (36) for receiving the label tape from the roll receiving device (36), and the label tape buffer being connected to the labeling unit (14) for feeding the label tape to the labeling unit (14), The label tape buffer (48) is designed to buffer the received label tape and distribute the buffered label tape for feeding into the labeling unit (14).

3. The device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: A tape guiding bridge (20) connects the supply device (24) and the labeling unit (14) and is used to guide the label tape to the labeling unit (14).

4. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The robot operating unit (26) is spaced apart from the labeling unit (14) by at least a sufficient distance so that the labeling unit (14) can be detached from the labeling device (12) and removed; and / or The minimum distance between the robot operation unit (26) and the labeling unit (14) is ≥1m, ≥1.5m, ≥2m, ≥3m, ≥4m or ≥5m; and / or An operating or travel path extends between the robotic operating unit (26) and the labeling unit (14).

5. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The labeling device (12) has another labeling unit (14) for labeling the container; The supply device (24) is connected to the other labeling unit (16) and is used to feed another label tape to the other labeling unit (14); The robot operating unit (26) is arranged at a distance from the further labeling unit (14) and also has a further roll receiving device (38) for receiving and unwinding at least one further label roll to form the further label tape for feeding into the further labeling unit (16); and The robot (52) is configured to automatically load the further roll receiving device (38) with a roll of labels from the roll storage unit (34).

6. The device (10) according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The supply device (24) has a further label tape buffer (50), which is connected to the further roll receiving device (38) for receiving the further label tape from the further roll receiving device (38) and is connected to the further labeling unit (16) for feeding the further label tape to the further labeling unit (16), wherein the further label tape buffer (50) is designed to buffer the received further label tape and distribute the buffered further label tape for feeding to the further labeling unit (16); The device (10) also has another tape guiding bridge (22), which connects the supply device (24) and the other labeling unit (14) and is used to guide the other label tape to the other labeling unit (14); The robot operating unit (26) is spaced apart from the other labeling unit (16) by at least a sufficient distance so that the other labeling unit (16) can be detached from the labeling device (12) and removed; The minimum distance between the robot operation unit (24) and the other labeling unit (16) is ≥1m, ≥1.5m, ≥2m, ≥3m, ≥4m or ≥5m; and A travel or operation path extends between the robot handling unit (26) and the further labeling unit (16).

7. The device (10) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein: The roll receiving device (36) and the further roll receiving device (38) are each oriented toward the robot (52), preferably each radially relative to a base of the robot (52), and / or are each arranged equidistantly from the robot (52).

8. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The roll receiving device (36) and / or the further roll receiving device (38) has: - two preferably horizontally or vertically oriented roll receptacles (40, 42), preferably roll plates; and a connecting head (44) adapted to connect the tape end of a label roll from one of the two roll receptacles to the tape start of a label roll from the other of the two roll receptacles, Preferably, the robot (52) is further configured to feed the tape start end to the connection head (44) and / or apply adhesive tape to the tape start end.

9. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the robot operating unit (26) further comprises: a protective housing (28) enclosing the roll storage unit (34), the roll receiving device (36) and the robot (52); and / or A system (32) for generating at least one signal curtain, preferably a light curtain or a laser curtain, for defining the robot operating unit (26), wherein the system (32) is preferably designed to generate the signal curtain in front of the roll storage unit (34), so that the roll storage unit (34) can be accessed from outside the robot operating unit (26).

10. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the robot operating unit (26) further comprises: Tool changing station (64), in: The robot (52) is configured to perform automatic tool change at the tool change station (64), and optionally: The robot (52) is configured to perform automatic tool change between different operating tools at the tool change station (64), preferably having: at least one roll operating tool (54), preferably an in-roll clamp, the at least one roll operating tool for operating a label roll, and / or at least one tape start operating tool (62), the at least one tape start operating tool for processing the tape start of a label roll.

11. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The robot (52) is a fixed robot; or The robot (52) is movable within the robot handling unit (26), preferably along linear axes and / or in a rail-guided manner.

12. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The roll receiving device (36) is capable of manually loading a label roll; and The robot operation unit (26) also has a personnel movement area (46) which is arranged between the roll storage unit (34) and the roll receiving device (36) for an operator to manually load the label roll into the roll receiving device (36).

13. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the robot operating unit (26) further comprises: A testing device (68) configured to test the label roll, preferably with respect to at least one of the following: - winding direction, - the position and / or status of the tape start; -type, -diameter, - Deviations from the specified roll parameters, and - damage; and optionally A label roll buffer (70) is used for the intermediate storage of the tested label rolls.

14. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The robot (52) is configured to rotate the label roll according to the winding direction of the label roll previously detected by the testing device (68); and / or The robot (52) has an adhesive tape dispenser (66) for dispensing double-sided adhesive tape, preferably for connecting label tapes.

15. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the robot operating unit (26) further comprises: A detection device, the detection device being configured to detect an intrusion of a user into the robot operating unit (26), and when the intrusion is detected: - stopping the robot (52) or changing the operation of the robot (52) from an autonomous operation mode to a collaborative operation mode; and - Allowing the roll receiving device (36) to continue operating.

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