Label applicator

Abstract

The present application and a labeling machine (100) configured to apply a label on an object. The labeling machine comprises: an arm mechanism (120); a label pad (130) mechanically attached to a first end of the arm mechanism, designed to hold and dispense labels; an actuator operably connected to the arm mechanism, providing a controlled rotational movement; the control system is used for adjusting the movement and positioning of the arm mechanism and the label pad; and means (114) for generating an air flow. The labeling machine further comprises a drive shaft (121) connected to the actuator and configured to rotate along a longitudinal central axis of the drive shaft; the arm mechanism is connected to the driving shaft at the second end, so that the longitudinal axis of the driving shaft is basically perpendicular to the arm mechanism; and the air flow channel extends from the device for generating the air flow via the drive shaft through the arm mechanism to the applicator pad.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to applicators, and more particularly to a label applicator for applying labels to objects. The applicator of the present invention can be used in conjunction with general industrial printers and particularly label printers. Background Art

[0002] Labeling machines are used to apply labels to packages or products. Some labeling machines can also work with label printers to produce labels.

[0003] The most common type of automatic label applicator is based on linear motion and applies labels from the side or top of an object, known as a press-on applicator. The longer the stroke of the applicator, the greater the variation in object size allowed. Another common type of automatic label applicator is a rotary arm type that can apply labels to the front, right, left, top, and back of an object, known as a wipe-type applicator. This type of applicator can apply multiple labels to different sides of an object without stopping. It can also apply labels around corners, making them readable from both sides.

[0004] Both label applicators are typically actuated using compressed air, although electric actuation is becoming more common. In addition, both label applicators typically use either vacuum (created by compressed air) or suction (created by a fan) to hold the label to the label pad during application. When fans are used, they are typically located on the label applicator pad close to the label, requiring wires to be connected to the label pad through the swivel point. This setup makes the fan susceptible to wear and tear and adds moving mass.

[0005] There is a growing focus on sustainability, which has led to a need for compressed air-free solutions. There is a growing need for fast and reliable solutions, which requires reduced moving mass and fewer parts subject to wear. Designing a rotary arm label applicator presents additional challenges when preparing for a variety of applications. Linear and wipe type label applicator systems may have different stroke lengths or use different arm lengths / rotation radii.

[0006] Typically, a wipe-type label applicator is a label applicator system used to label multiple sides of an object, including the front, right, left, top, and back. The term "wipe" refers to the action of the label applicator as it wipes the label across the surface of an object.

[0007] Wipe-type label applicators typically consist of an arm or mechanism that holds the label and moves it in a rotating or swiveling motion to apply the label to the desired side of the object. This type of label applicator allows for a variety of label placements and can even apply labels around corners so that the label can be read from multiple angles.

[0008] To ensure efficient label application, a wipe-type applicator needs to approach the label pad from one end (often called the "wrist") and then move toward the other end (called the "fingertip"). This movement ensures a smooth application process. If a wipe-type applicator approaches the object with the "fingertip" first, there is a risk that the label pad will become lodged in the object, causing a jam.

[0009] Wipe-type label applicators are often used in industries where labels need to be applied to all sides of a product or package. They offer flexibility and versatility in labeling applications, allowing objects to be labeled efficiently and accurately from different directions and angles.

[0010] Additionally, for wipe-type label applicator systems, the direction and position of its axis of rotation must vary to accommodate different scenarios. One of the main challenges of wipe-type label applicator systems is to effectively handle a variety of labeling scenarios. Another challenge faced by automatic label applicators is the ability to handle uneven or inclined surfaces. This is typically achieved using a joint mechanism. In a wipe-type label applicator, labels are applied as the object passes by, and the joint only needs to provide an axis around which the label pad can move and can be positioned close to the label pad. The joint should allow the label pad to follow the surface of the object during the labeling process, while returning to a predictable "home position" when not in use, ensuring that new labels are consistently fed into the label pad. The joint should be lightweight, durable, easy to produce and cost-effective.

[0011] If the suction blower is located in the label applicator body, the joint should facilitate low resistance air delivery without leakage. If the label applicator arm is located in the center of the label pad, the joint movement should be symmetrical.

[0012] Systems that print and apply labels (also called print and apply systems) have various requirements. The following are two common and seemingly contradictory requirements:

[0013] 1. The system / solution should be able to apply printed labels to different sides of an object.

[0014] 2. Choosing the right system / solution should be simple and straightforward, without the need for too many versions and combinations.

[0015] A common approach to addressing requirement 1 is to provide two versions of the print and apply system: one for the right side and one for the left side. This effectively doubles the number of versions, making it challenging to meet requirement 2. However, it effectively meets requirement 1. Label applicators often exhibit asymmetry, meaning that they excel at applying labels to a specific side or corner of an object when the object is moving in a specific direction, but not when moving in the opposite direction.

[0016] This asymmetry is most evident in wipe-type label applicators. In some designs, the object being labeled approaches the outer end of the label pad from the label applicator joint to facilitate smooth label application. If the object being labeled approaches the outer end first, there is a high risk that the label pad will become lodged in the object, causing the entire system to lock up and resulting in the object being labeled becoming stuck. The asymmetry is less apparent in common linear label applicators, where the label pad approaches the object being labeled vertically first with the "flat palm" / applicator, allowing the object to be approached from any direction. Summary of the invention

[0017] The present disclosure provides many advantages, the following is a non-exhaustive list of examples.

[0018] The arrangement disclosed and described below provides solutions to the aforementioned challenges and offers several advantages, such as:

[0019] -Provides a light yet powerful solution, perfect for fast drives;

[0020] -The moving mass of the applicator pad can be reduced;

[0021] - No more bendable or twistable wires to power the fan;

[0022] - Use fans that suffer less wear and tear; and

[0023] - The applicator arm can rotate 360° with uninterrupted airflow.

[0024] According to a first aspect, there is provided a labelling machine configured to apply a label to an object. The labelling machine comprises: an arm mechanism; a label pad mechanically attached to a first end of the arm mechanism, designed to hold and dispense labels; an actuator operably connected to the arm mechanism, providing controlled rotational movement; a control system for regulating the movement and positioning of the arm mechanism and the label pad; and a device for generating an airflow. The labelling machine also comprises a drive shaft connected to the actuator and configured to rotate along a longitudinal central axis of the drive shaft; an arm mechanism connected to the drive shaft at a second end so that the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft and the arm mechanism are substantially perpendicular; and an airflow channel extends from the device for generating an airflow via the drive shaft, through the arm mechanism to the applicator pad.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided a printing and applying system, comprising: a label printer and a labeling machine as disclosed in the present application.

[0026] It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the above-mentioned aspects, the appended claims and / or the examples disclosed above and below may be appropriately combined with each other.

[0027] Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims and drawings, and some features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art or recognized by practicing the disclosure described herein. The present application also discloses a control unit, a computer-readable medium and a computer program product related to the above technical advantages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] With reference to the accompanying drawings, aspects of the present application cited as examples will be described in more detail below. With reference to the accompanying drawings, elements with the same reference numerals represent the same elements throughout.

[0029] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary label applicator that may implement the teachings of the present application;

[0030] Figure 2a and Figure 2b Shown according to Figure 1 an exemplary housing as part of a label applicator;

[0031] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary printing and applying system including a label applicator described in the present application;

[0032] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a partial cross-sectional view from above of another exemplary label applicator that may implement the teachings of the present application;

[0033] Figure 5 Schematically showing the Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional side view of a label applicator;

[0034] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the tubular arm rotating around its central axis;

[0035] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the operation of an exemplary printing and application system including a label applicator described in the present application;

[0036] Figures 8a to 8d is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary wrist joint;

[0037] Figures 9 to 14 is an operational schematic diagram of an exemplary printing and application system including the label applicator described in the present application; and

[0038] Fig.15 is a schematic block diagram of the controller. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The term "industrial printer" as used in this article, also known as an "industrial-grade printer," can refer to a type of printer that is specifically designed for heavy-duty printing tasks in an industrial environment. These types of printers are designed to handle high volumes of printing, are typically fast, highly accurate, and able to print on a variety of materials such as paper, cardboard, labels, plastics, and metals. Industrial printers as referred to in this article are typically used in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, packaging, and retail that require efficient and reliable printing solutions. They are typically more rugged than standard office printers because they need to withstand harsher conditions and longer operating times.

[0040] Industrial label printers may use different printing technologies depending on the application. Some common types may include:

[0041] - Thermal Transfer Printers (TTP): These printers use heat to transfer the ink from the ribbon to the printing material, such as labels or tags. They are widely used in barcode printing and labeling applications.

[0042] - Direct Thermal Printers (DTP): These printers use thermal paper that turns black when exposed to heat, printing the desired pattern. They are often used to print receipts, shipping labels, or temporary labels.

[0043] -Inkjet printers: Industrial inkjet printers use inkjet technology to eject tiny droplets of ink onto a printing surface. They can print high-resolution images and are suitable for printing on a variety of materials, including paper, plastic, and metal.

[0044] -Laser Printers: Industrial laser printers use laser technology to create the desired prints. They are typically used for high-speed and high-volume printing applications, such as printing documents or product packaging.

[0045] Industrial printers may also include additional features, such as advanced connectivity options, rugged housings, automatic label applicators, or integrated systems for data management and control. These features can increase their productivity, efficiency, and integration with other industrial processes.

[0046] The term "label" as used herein may include information carrier media that may be made of a variety of materials, depending on the specific requirements and application. Some common materials used for printer labels may include (but are not limited to): paper, synthetic materials, card stock, clear transparent materials, thermal labels, and specialty materials.

[0047] The term "label backing" or "liner" as used herein may refer to a carrier on which a label is disposed and may include different materials.

[0048] According to the first aspect disclosed herein and described in more detail, a fan is used to generate air suction to keep the label on the label pad. The fan is located in the wipe-type applicator body and is fixed. The fan (e.g., a centrifugal fan) is connected to a rotating hollow spindle and rotates through, for example, a sealed bearing to prevent leakage. The spindle can be connected to a hollow "elbow" joint (elbow), which continues the tubular arm and is connected to a hollow "wrist" (wrist) connector, which is connected to the applicator pad, which distributes air and holds the label.

[0049] The hollow design provides a lightweight yet robust solution, ideal for fast actuation. Placing the fan inside a fixed body (housing) reduces moving mass. This solution eliminates the need for bendable or twistable wires to power the fan. This solution significantly reduces wear on the fan as it does not collide with the application target with each label application. This solution allows the applicator arm to rotate 360° with uninterrupted airflow.

[0050] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary applicator assembly 100 of the so-called wipe applicator type viewed from above is shown, which incorporates the teachings of the present application. The applicator assembly 100 includes: a housing 110, a substantially tubular arm 120 or tubular arm mechanism, and an applicator pad 130. The applicator pad 130 is mechanically connected to the tubular arm 120 via a connector or joint 150. The tubular arm 120 is mechanically and rotatably attached to the housing 110 via a hollow coupling 140, which is mechanically attached to a hollow shaft or tube 121. The tube 121 extends into the interior of the housing and can be supported by at least one (ball) bearing 111. The coupling 140 can be attached to the tube 121 using a screw 122. Any other type of mechanical attachment may also be used, such as a quick connect, a threaded connection, a flange connection, a compression fit push fit, a connection groove connection, etc. The function of the tube 121 is to serve as a drive shaft for the tubular arm, as described below.

[0051] The coupling device 140 may be a generally L-shaped structure molded in two pieces from aluminum or injection molded plastic and mechanically connected together by bolts and nuts.

[0052] An actuator, such as an electric motor 112, may be directly connected to the tube 121 within the housing via a gear or belt drive to rotate the tube and thereby the coupling, hollow tube 121 and pad 130 about the central longitudinal axis of the tube 121. One end of the tube is located within the housing and is connected to a fan 114 or a space that accommodates the fan. In operation, the fan receives a control signal from a controller and generates airflow by creating a low pressure area or negative pressure within the tube 121, thereby creating a suction effect, whereby air flows through the holes on the surface of the hollow tube 120 and pad 130, as shown by arrows 170, through the pad 130, the joint 150, the tubular arm 120, the tube 121, out through the channel 113 in the housing 110, and discharged through the exhaust port 115 in the housing.

[0053] Figure 2a and 2b The exemplary housing 110 is shown from two sides (front and side views) respectively. The housing 110 is provided with an opening 116 for receiving a tube 121. The housing is also configured to be mounted on a support arm 210 by an attachment means 211 (eg, screws or quick connections, etc.).

[0054] The design of the housing 110 and tubular arm 120 allows for different mounting positions, some of which are Figure 9-14 This can be accomplished by, for example, changing the length of the drive tube 121, the connecting applicator arm 130, and one or more of the brackets used to hold the housing.

[0055] This solution allows the tubular arm 120 and applicator pad 130 to rotate approximately 360° around the central axis of the tube 121. Figure 3 300. The printing and applying system 300 includes a label printer (eg, an industrial label printer 350) and an applicator assembly 100 as previously described. The various positions of the pad 130, tubular arm 120, and coupling device 140 are shown in phantom.

[0056] In operation, the label printer 350 feeds labels ( Figure 3 ), the tag is received on the surface of the pad 130 in the receiving position 117. Due to the fan 114 ( Figure 1 ) operates by holding the label on the surface of the pad by air suction on the pad surface, and the pad can be rotated to apply the label to the object ( Figure 3 not shown).

[0057] The arrangement of the present application provides a solution that avoids the use of multiple printers (e.g., for the right and left hands), provides a solution that can apply printed labels to many different sides of an object, and easily combines multiple versions and combinations of printing and application systems.

[0058] In accordance with the present disclosure, the applicator system reverses the functionality of a wipe-type applicator that is typically unable to apply a label in the mounted position by being able to rotate the arm about its central axis and along an axis at one end.

[0059] Figure 4 and Figure 5 1 and 2 (top view and side view, respectively) illustrate an exemplary applicator assembly 100' having the additional functionality of tubular arm 120 being rotatable about its central longitudinal axis. Thus, tubular arm 120 and coupling device 140 can be rotated approximately 360° about the central longitudinal axis of tube 121 (rotation A), and in addition, the tubular arm can be rotated 180° along its central longitudinal axis (rotation B). This feature allows the label to be rotated to different orientations, the label being secured to the surface of applicator pad 130 with its adhesive side facing downward (e.g., Figure 5 ), for example, placing the adhesive side up, to the left, or to the right before application.

[0060] Rotation B may be passively driven by rotation A. According to this example, the mechanism of rotation B includes at least two guide wheels: a (first) inner guide wheel 1213 and a (second) outer guide wheel 1214, a guide shaft 1215, and guide rails 1216 and 1217. Guide wheels 1213 and 1214 are connected to guide shaft 1215. The inner guide wheel 1213 follows the inner guide rail 1216, and the outer guide wheel 1214 moves following the outer guide rail 1216. The two guide wheels ensure that the guide shaft 1215 has a defined angle at all angles of the tubular member 121. The guide shaft 1215 is connected to bevel gears 1218 and 1219. Bevel gears 1218 and 1219 are connected to the tubular arm 120. The tubular arm 120 rotates in bearings 122 and 123 installed in the tubular member 121 and the coupling device 140. The tubular arm may include perforations 124 in the tubular member 121 and the coupling device 140 to allow air to pass through.

[0061] Figure 5 The side view of shows how the two guide wheels 1213, 1214 follow the two guide rails and form a fixed rotation pattern which is transmitted by the bevel gears to the applicator arm and label pad. The label pad can be at 0° when printing and 180° when applying. It should be noted that the guide rails may be different for different applications due to different mounting angles.

[0062] Figure 6 Represents the rotation of the tubular arm around its central axis.

[0063] The two guide wheels ensure that the guide shaft 1215 will not deviate from the required rotation in any direction at each application position. Figure 6 Guide wheel 1213 is shown to prevent clockwise deviation from the desired position, while guide wheel 1214 prevents counterclockwise deviation.

[0064] The guide rails are designed so that the tubular arm 120 can rotate a total of approximately 180°. For example, the guide shaft can be rotated 90° and the bevel gear can have a gear ratio of 1:2. The guide rails 1216 and 1217 can also be designed so that the rotation B can be at 0° rotation in the printing position, which means that the label will be fed into the label pad with the printing side facing the label pad. The guide rails are arranged in two different levels and / or two independent guide rails. One guide rail (external) can be fixed in the applicator housing. According to this embodiment, the rotation is performed at ±60°, the normal / printing / paper change position can be at 40°, and the reverse / apply at 200°.

[0065] Figure 7 An exemplary operation of the above-described applicator is shown. In the figure, multiple positions of the same applicator arm (ie, tubular arm 120 and pad 130) are shown.

[0066] In Position 1: the label printer 350 prints and provides labels 191 onto the surface of the applicator pad 130 which is in a position to receive labels from the printer dispenser portion.

[0067] In position 2: tubular arm 120 is rotated both about central axis 1211 (the central axis of tubular shaft (121)) as previously described and about its own central axis 180° so that the surface of the applicator pad with the label is facing toward the article 700 moving toward the operating area of ​​the label applicator (e.g., in Figure 7 As the rotation of the tubular arm about the tubular arm increases and the tubular arm approaches the object to be labeled, the rotation of the tubular arm will become 180°, which means that the tubular arm 120 will always be rotated substantially 180° when in position to apply the label.

[0068] In position 3: the arm 120 is rotated 90° about the axis 1211 and 180° about its central axis so that the applicator pad with the label faces the approaching article 700a and applies the label 191 to the upper corner of the first side of the article 700a.

[0069] In position 4: article 700a continues to travel and the applicator is further rotated about axis 1211, causing label 191 to continue to be applied to an adjacent surface, which is to the right relative to the direction of travel of article 700a.

[0070] After applying the label, the arm can return in the original direction, or continue to rotate around axis 1211 and its center axis to return to the printing point at position 1.

[0071] Thus, the assembly disclosed herein eliminates the need for inverting the complete print and apply system, including replacement of the label printer and inverting the complete flip / twist label applicator. Labels can be applied on the same side, but with far fewer parts and options to choose from, which simplifies the customer, streamlines the pre-sales process, reduces the number of inventory items, and reduces production costs due to increased production volumes.

[0072] In order to allow the applicator pad to have flexibility during rotation and application and also to be able to apply labels on uneven surfaces, the applicator pad 130 may be provided as Figures 8a-8d A joint 150 or “wrist” is shown connected to the tubular arm 120 . Figure 8a is a cross-section of an exemplary joint 150 , tubular arm 120 , and applicator pad 130 . Figure 8b is along Figure 8a The cross section of line BB in . Figure 8c is along Figure 8a Cross section along line CC in .

[0073] The joint 150 is a tubular body having a generally L-shape. One end of the joint is inserted into the tubular arm 120 to enable it to rotate without significant air leakage, and the other end is mechanically connected to the base of the pad 130. The joint includes an elastic / resilient portion 151, one or more locking latches 152, a connecting portion 153, and a guide latch 154.

[0074] The locking latch 152 is attached to the surrounding tubular arm by snapping into a designated hole on the tubular arm. The elastic portion 151 helps to pull the joint back into place after the label is applied. In addition, the joint includes a latch or extrusion 154, which is connected to the track 1213 in the tubular arm 120. Figure 8b , the guide rail 1213 and latch 154 are shown for explanation reasons and are not along line BB. The extrusions combined with the appropriate track length limit the rotation angle of the joint and pad 130, thereby preventing excessive twisting of the joint. This can also prevent overstretching and subsequent damage to the elastic portion. The label applicator pad 130 can be directly attached to the connecting portion 153 of the joint by an attachment device (such as a screw 156 that snaps into the joint).

[0075] While the joint 150 may have a generally circular cross-section, particularly at the portion where the arms are inserted, the connection portion 154 to the cushion base may be rectangular. However, the form of the joint is not limited to these shapes and may follow the tubular arms and / or cushion base connection portion. A seal 131, such as a rubber seal, may be arranged between the cushion base and the joint connection portion.

[0076] In one embodiment, the joint can be made into an integral joint using 3D printing (e.g., selective laser printing), and the elastic portion can include a built-in 3D printed spring. The joint can also be made by molding or casting.

[0077] Figure 8a Also shown are holes or apertures 133 in the surface of the application pad 130 for placement of labels. This configuration applies to all embodiments.

[0078] Therefore, when constructing a swivel arm using, for example, a tubular arm made of aluminum or carbon fiber, a structure is required between the arm and the applicator pad to provide a reliable joint, for example by 3D printing with SLS, which is a cheap manufacturing method.

[0079] In some exemplary embodiments, by making the joint thinner and weaker than the tubular arm, if the label applicator is subjected to unexpected external forces (such as a collision), the joint can be deliberately broken before the tube breaks. If the joint is easily replaceable, recovery is cheap and easy.

[0080] Figure 8d Another exemplary connector 150 and pad 130' configuration for a small tag is shown, where the pad 130' has a much smaller surface and includes a tapered body.

[0081] The shape of the connector is not limited to the examples shown and disclosed, other shapes and forms are possible depending on the application. Variants of the solution are also available for all installation positions.

[0082] Figures 9 to 14 An exemplary printing and applying system configuration is shown, wherein the tubular arm has different mounting solutions. Figure 9-14 In the figure, the label printer is represented by 350, the applicator system is represented by 100, the support arm is represented by 210, 117 is the area of ​​the pad that receives the label, and the item to be labeled is represented by 700.

[0083] In all mounting positions, the housing is arranged in such a way that the air outlet of the fan in the housing is always directed in the label feed direction, or perpendicular to the right or left side of the label feed direction. This means that the air outlet of the fan is never directed in the opposite direction of the label feed direction. This prevents the air outlet of the fan from creating undesirable air turbulence that would be detrimental to the label feeding process.

[0084] In the following Figure 9-14 In the description of FIG, all disclosed directions are relative to the plane of the drawing. Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the applicator pad receives the label at a horizontal position 117 and swings from left to right and downward to apply the label to the article. By rotating the tubular arm 180 degrees, both sides of the article 700 can be labeled in the direction of the arrow.

[0085] exist Fig.10 In the embodiment, the applicator assembly is mounted on a support arm at a distance from the printer. The applicator pad receives the label at a horizontal position 117 and swings from right to left and downward to apply the label to the item. By rotating the tubular arm 180 degrees, both sides of the item 700 can be labeled in the direction of the arrow.

[0086] exist Fig.11 In the embodiment, the applicator assembly is mounted on a support arm, at a distance from the printer. The applicator pad receives the label in a vertical position at 117, and swings right and downward from the vertical position to apply the label to the upper side of the article.

[0087] exist Fig.12 In the embodiment, the applicator pad receives the label at a horizontal position 117 and swings from right to left and downward to apply the label to the article. By rotating the tubular arm 180 degrees, both sides of the article 700 can be labeled in the direction of the arrow.

[0088] exist Fig.13 In the embodiment, the applicator assembly is arranged on a support arm, at a distance from the printer. The applicator pad receives the label in a horizontal position at 117, swings from right to left and downward, and rotates 180° to apply the label to the item. By rotating the tubular arm 180°, both sides of the item 700 (arrow direction) can be labeled.

[0089] Fig.14 Shows the Fig.11 The same setup, with the arm rotated 180°, has the applicator assembly arranged on the support arm and at a distance from the printer. The applicator pad receives the label in a vertical position at 117 and swings from right to left and downward to apply the label to the item. It can also swing from left to right and rotate the arm 180 degrees to apply the label.

[0090] In some exemplary embodiments, the tubular arm mechanism may also include an arm of adjustable length, such as a telescoping arm, thereby allowing variation in the rotation radius to accommodate different object sizes and label placement requirements.

[0091] In some exemplary embodiments, seals, such as O-rings, rubber seals, etc., may be arranged between different components from the gasket to the fan to avoid air leakage.

[0092] The operation of the applicator assembly and the movement of the applicator arm may be controlled by a controller that controls a drive motor in the housing, receives sensing or encoder signals from various sensors or communicates with other devices. The controller may be stand-alone or part of the printer controller.

[0093] A user interface may be provided that communicates with the controller, allowing configuration settings, adjustment of tag positions, and monitoring of the tag application process.

[0094] To these ends, a sensor system may be included in the applicator system, as disclosed, including optical sensors, proximity sensors, or a combination thereof, to accurately detect the presence and location of an object, thereby enabling efficient label application.

[0095] Fig.15 An exemplary controller 103 is schematically shown. The controller 103 can communicate with various sensors of the printer, such as encoders for motors 132, 152, 162 and 170. The controller can be independent or part of the printer controller mentioned above. The controller 103 described above can implement the methods and systems described herein, and can include a bus 1310, a processor 1032, a memory 1033, a read-only memory (ROM) 1034, a storage device 1350, an input device 1035, an output device 1037 and a communication interface 1038. The bus 1031 allows communication between components of the controller 103. The bus can be any of several types of bus structures, which can also be interconnected with a memory bus (with or without a memory controller), a peripheral bus and / or a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. The controller 103 can also include one or more power supplies (not shown). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the controller 103 can be configured in a variety of other ways and can include other or different elements.

[0096] The processor 1032 may include any type of processor or microprocessor that interprets and executes instructions. The processor 1032 may include, for example, a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a circuit containing a processing component, a group of distributed processing components, a group of distributed computers configured for processing, or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination of functions designed to perform the functions described herein. The processor may also include computer executable code that controls the operation of the programmable device. The processor 1032 may also include logic that can receive and compile instructions and interpret different signals and generate outputs to, for example, speakers, displays, etc.

[0097] Memory 1033 may include random access memory (RAM) or another dynamic storage device for storing information and instructions for execution by processor 1032. Memory 1033 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions by processor 1032. Memory 1033 may be one or more devices for storing data and / or computer code to complete or facilitate the methods described herein. Memory may include database components, object code components, script components, or other types of information structures for supporting various activities described herein. Any distributed or local memory device may be used with the systems and methods of this specification. Memory may be communicatively connected to a processor device (e.g., via a circuit or any other wired, wireless, or network connection), and may include computer code for executing one or more processes described herein. The memory may include non-volatile memory 1034 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.) and volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and accessed by a computer or other machine with a processor. A basic input / output system (BIOS) may be stored in the non-volatile memory 1034 and may include basic routines that help transfer information between elements within the controller.

[0098] ROM 1034 may include conventional ROM devices and / or other static storage devices for storing static information and instructions for processor 1032. Storage device 1350 may include a magnetic or optical disk and its corresponding drive and / or some other type of magnetic or optical recording medium for storing information and instructions and its corresponding drive. Storage device 1350 may also include a flash memory (e.g., an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) device for storing information and instructions.

[0099] The input device 1035 may include one or more conventional mechanisms for allowing a user to input information to the controller 103, such as a keyboard, a keypad, a directional pad, a mouse, a pen, voice recognition, a touch screen, and / or a biometric recognition mechanism, etc. The output device 1037 may include one or more conventional mechanisms for outputting information to the user, including a display, a printer, one or more speakers, etc. The communication interface 1038 may include any transceiver-type mechanism that enables the controller 103 to communicate with other devices and / or systems. For example, the communication interface 1038 may include a modem or an Ethernet interface to a LAN. Alternatively, or in addition, the communication interface 1038 may include other mechanisms for communicating over a network (e.g., a wireless network). For example, the communication interface may include a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver and one or more antennas for sending and receiving RF data.

[0100] The controller 103 provides a platform through which various functions of the label applicator, either independently or in combination with a printer, can be controlled in accordance with the present application. The controller 103 can also display information related to the label application status of printer-related information.

[0101] According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller 103 may perform various processes in response to the processor 1032 executing the instruction sequence contained in the memory 1033. Such instructions may be read into the memory 1033 from another computer-readable medium (e.g., storage device 1350) or from a separate device through the communication interface 1038. It should be understood that the computer-readable medium may include one or more storage devices or carrier waves. Executing the instruction sequence contained in the memory 1033 causes the processor 1032 to perform the described actions. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuits may be used instead of or in combination with software instructions to implement aspects consistent with the present application. Therefore, the present application is not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0102] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude the existence of other elements or steps than those listed, and the word "a" or "an" before an element does not exclude the existence of multiple such elements. It should also be noted that any figure mark does not limit the scope of the claims, the content of the application can be at least partially implemented by hardware and software, and multiple "devices", "units" or "equipment" can be represented by the same hardware.

[0103] The terms used herein are only used to describe specific aspects and are not intended to limit the content of this application. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" are also intended to include plural forms. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more related listed items. It should be further understood that the terms "including", "comprising", "containing" used herein specify the presence of the features, whole pieces, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, whole pieces, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0104] It should be understood that although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of the present application.

[0105] Relative terms such as "lower" or "upper" or "above" or "below" or "horizontally" or "vertically" may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another element as shown in the figures. It should be understood that these terms and the above terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there can be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0106] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by ordinary technicians in the field to which this application belongs. It should also be understood that the terms used herein should be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the context of this specification and the relevant field, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0107] Software and web implementations of various embodiments of the disclosed methods can be implemented through standard programming techniques, wherein rule-based logic and other logic are employed to implement various database search steps or processes, association steps or processes, comparison steps or processes, and decision steps or processes. It should be noted that the terms "component" and "module" as used herein and in the following claims are intended to cover implementations using one or more lines of software code, and / or hardware implementations, and / or devices for receiving manual input.

[0108] It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the accompanying drawings; on the contrary, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present application and the appended claims. In the drawings and description, aspects have been disclosed for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes, and the scope of the inventive concept is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A labeling machine (100) configured to apply a label to an object, the labeling machine comprising: - an arm mechanism (120); - a label pad (130) mechanically connected to the first end of the arm mechanism for holding and dispensing labels; - an actuator operatively connected to the arm mechanism, providing controlled rotational movement; - a control system for regulating the movement and positioning of the arm mechanism and the label pad; - means for generating an air flow (114); in: - the labelling machine further comprises a drive shaft (121) connected to the actuator and configured to rotate along a longitudinal centre axis of the drive shaft; - an arm mechanism is connected to the drive shaft at a second end so that the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft and the arm mechanism are substantially perpendicular; and - An airflow channel extends from the device generating the airflow, through the drive shaft, through the arm mechanism to the applicator pad.

2. The labeling machine according to claim 1, further comprising a housing (110) accommodating the device for generating an air flow.

3. The labeling machine according to claim 2, wherein: The housing includes the actuator and the drive shaft.

4. A labelling machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The arm mechanism also includes an arm of adjustable length, thereby allowing variation in the radius of rotation.

5. A labelling machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The actuator is operably connected to the arm mechanism for rotating the arm mechanism along its longitudinal axis.

6. The labeling machine according to claim 5, wherein: A transmission device is provided between the actuator and the arm mechanism, and is configured to passively rotate the arm mechanism along its longitudinal axis when the actuator drives a driving shaft for rotating the arm mechanism to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the driving shaft.

7. The labeling machine according to claim 7, wherein the driving mechanism comprises a first guide wheel (1213), a second guide wheel (1214), a guide shaft (1215), a first guide rail (1216) and a second guide rail (1217).

8. The labeling machine according to claim 8, wherein - the first and second guide wheels (1213; 1214) are connected to the guide shaft (1215), - the first guide wheel (1213) is arranged to follow the first guide rail (1216), and the second guide wheel (1214) is arranged to follow the second guide rail (1216); The first and second guide wheels ensure that the guide shaft has a defined angle at all angles of the drive shaft (121).

9. The labeling machine according to any one of claims 8 or 9, wherein: The guide shaft is connected to a bevel gear (1218; 1219), and the bevel gear is connected to a first end of the arm mechanism (120).

10. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The guide rail is formed so that the arm mechanism can be rotated approximately 180° about its longitudinal axis.

11. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein: The guide shaft is arranged to be rotated approximately 90° and the bevel gear has a gear ratio of 1:

2.

12. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein: The guide rail is also formed so that the arm mechanism rotates 0° about its central axis at the first position, enabling the label to be fed onto the label pad.

13. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the guide rails are arranged as two separate guide rails, at least one of which is connected to the housing, thereby allowing the arm mechanism to position the pad in the label receiving position.

14. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein: The rotation about the central axis of the arm mechanism is passively driven by the rotation about the central axis of the driver shaft.

15. A labelling machine according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a joint (150) coupling the arm mechanism to the applicator pad, the joint comprising a tubular body having a generally L-shape.

16. The labeling machine according to claim 15, wherein: The joint is configured to be inserted into the arm mechanism at one end, thereby allowing it to rotate without air leakage, and to be mechanically connected to the base portion of the pad at the other end.

17. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 15 or 16, wherein: The joint comprises a resilient portion (151), one or more locking latches (152), a connecting portion (153) and a guide latch (154).

18. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein: The elastic portion (151) helps to pull the joint back to its original position after labeling.

19. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the latch (154) is connected to a track (1213) in the arm mechanism, the track being arranged to limit the angle of rotation of the joint and pad and to prevent excessive twisting of the joint or over-extension of the resilient part and consequent damage.

20. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein: The joint is essentially 3D printed in a single piece, and the resilient portion includes an internal 3D printed spring.

21. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein: The joint is made thinner and / or weaker than the arm mechanism.

22. A labelling machine according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein: The joints enable the label pad to follow the contours of the surface of an object during label application.

23. A labelling machine according to any preceding claim, further comprising a sensor system configured to provide detection of the presence and position of an object.

24. A labelling machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the drive shaft (121) is configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees about its longitudinal axis.

25. A printing and applying system comprising a label printer and a labelling machine according to any one of claims 1 to 24.

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