Label distributor and method for distributing labels

Abstract

The present application relates to a method performed by a controller of a label dispenser for dispensing labels from a label source (120, 230) to an edge portion of the label dispenser. The method comprises moving a label between a label source and a label dispenser edge portion, and transporting the label by moving the label across the label dispenser edge portion (location E) of the label dispenser for application on one or more target objects. The method comprises: controlling the movement of the labels in the label dispenser at at least two different speeds, where the first speed (Vhigh) is higher than the second speed (Vlow), and for each label, using a target time (Ttd) between receiving the trigger signal and conveying the label to the label dispenser (position E), and if the moving speed of the label is different from the first speed (Vhigh), accelerating the speed of the label to achieve the label conveying (position E) at the first speed (Vhigh) substantially at the target time (Ttd).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a method for dispensing labels, and more particularly to a method for supplying media (especially labels) in a label dispenser. The device of the present invention can be applied to label dispensers and general industrial printer applications, especially label printers. Background Art

[0002] Labelling machines are used to apply labels to packages or products. Some known labelling machines include a label dispenser that supplies pre-printed labels from a source and a label applicator that applies the pre-printed labels to the items. Other known labelling machines may print information onto the label just before the printed label is applied to the item. Such labelling machines may be referred to as print and apply (P&A) labelling machines. In some other known labelling machines, an overprint function may be used to overprint portions of the label before the label is applied.

[0003] There is a growing demand for sustainable products and solutions, especially at every stage of product manufacturing. Label printers, especially industrial label printers, are used at various points in the production line and are included in sustainability requirements. Industrial label printers are designed for heavy-duty, continuous use and are suitable for large-scale labeling operations common in warehouses, factories and distribution centers. These printers can produce thousands of labels per day. In addition, industrial label printers may also include label application components, collectively referred to as print and apply (P&A) machines.

[0004] Typically, labelers and P&A machines can receive a trigger signal from an external product detection sensor or an external control system. The machine can start running immediately after receiving the signal or after a certain delay. The time it takes for the machine to deliver a label may depend on various factors, including but not limited to feed / print speed, label length, and gap length between labels.

[0005] Labelling machines and P&A machines usually come to a complete stop between two operating cycles. For P&A machines, they usually perform a rewind between cycles to position the start of the label at the print head. This ensures that the entire label area can be printed.

[0006] Processes such as acceleration, deceleration and rewinding take time, which affects the minimum cycle time and thus the throughput of the entire system. Summary of the invention

[0007] The apparatus and method disclosed in the present application improve the maximum speed of certain (automatic) labeling and P&A systems by introducing a new method of controlling the movement of a label printer or label applicator. Therefore, at least one object of the apparatus disclosed herein is to improve the speed and performance of labeling and P&A applications, wherein labels can be applied directly to a target object or applied using an applicator that can apply one label while receiving the next label being fed or printed. This can be, for example, a tape applicator.

[0008] The present application also proposes a method and apparatus for designing a label printer that is easy to use and reliable in high-speed operation. The method and apparatus of the present application can overcome one or several of the above-mentioned disadvantages of label printers and P&A systems.

[0009] According to a first aspect, a method performed by a controller of a label dispenser is provided for dispensing labels from a label source to an edge portion of a label dispenser. The method comprises: moving the label between the label source and the edge portion of the label dispenser, and conveying the label by moving the label over the label dispenser edge portion (position E) of the label dispenser to be applied to one or more target objects. The method further comprises: controlling the movement of the label in the label dispenser at at least two different speeds, wherein the first speed is higher than the second speed, and for each label, using a target time between receiving a trigger signal and conveying the label to the label dispenser (position E), and if the moving speed of the label is different from the first speed, accelerating the speed of the label to substantially reach the conveying (position E) of the label at the first speed at the target time.

[0010] In one embodiment, the controller also determines, based on the time available until the target time: whether rewinding of the label is required (state 1), in which case the label (i) is decelerated until its movement stops, and (ii) a rewinding operation is performed to put the label in the correct position for printing operation (position A), or no rewinding is required (state 2), in which case printing of the label will continue at the first speed.

[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, the controller further times the printing operation in state 2 within the time available for the target time, and decides: to print the label continuously at the first speed until the label completely moves over the edge portion of the label dispenser, or to decelerate the label until it moves at the second speed, and accelerate the label until it moves at the first speed for transmission, and may keep the label at the second speed for a certain period of time before accelerating to match the time available for the target time. The method may also include moving the label at a constant acceleration and deceleration between the first speed and the second speed. In one embodiment, the method may include the controller further receiving information on whether a subsequent label or labels need to be printed. In yet another example, when printing a label, the second speed is not equal to 0m / s. In an exemplary embodiment, a trigger signal is received from an external product detection sensor or an external control system, and a continuous trigger signal is associated with a continuous label. In one example, the method may include obtaining information about the start of a new label, the label length, and the gap length between continuous labels measured during a calibration process.

[0012] According to a second aspect, a label dispenser is used to dispense labels to an edge portion of the label dispenser. The label dispenser includes: a label source, an edge portion, a label path extending between the label source and the edge portion, and a controller configured to control the speed of the labels in the label path. The controller is configured to: move the label between the label source and the edge portion of the label dispenser, and convey the label by moving the label through the label dispenser edge portion (position E) of the label dispenser to be applied to one or more target objects, control the movement of the label in the label dispenser at at least two different speeds, wherein the first speed is higher than the second speed, and for each label, use a target time between receiving a trigger signal and conveying the label to the label dispenser (position E), and determine whether the moving speed of the label is different from the first speed, thereby accelerating the speed of the label to substantially reach the conveying of the label (position E) at the first speed at the target time.

[0013] According to a third aspect, a label dispenser comprises a printer device.

[0014] According to a fourth aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising instructions, which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the method of the present application.

[0015] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a computer program product, comprising program code, which, when executed by a processing circuit, is used to perform the method of the present application.

[0016] According to a sixth aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising instructions, which, when executed by a processing circuit, cause the processing circuit to perform a method according to the present application. The above aspects, the accompanying claims and / or the examples disclosed herein above and below may be appropriately combined with each other, which is obvious to a person skilled in the art.

[0017] Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims and drawings, and some features and advantages will be obvious to those skilled in the art or recognized by practicing the disclosure described herein. This article 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

[0018] 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.

[0019] Figure 1 An exemplary printer in which the teachings of the present application may be implemented is shown;

[0020] Figure 2 Shown according to Figure 1 Another side view of the printer;

[0021] Figure 3 It is a graph of speed versus time, representing the process timing in P&A applications;

[0022] Figure 4 is a graph of speed versus time, representing the timing of the process in labeling applications;

[0023] Figure 5 and 5A to 5F is for example based on Figure 1 Illustration of the print head and feeding section of a label printer;

[0024] Figure 6 is an exemplary schematic controller according to one aspect of the present application;

[0025] Figure 7 is an exemplary label applicator incorporating the teachings of the present application; and

[0026] Figure 8 is an exemplary printing and application system incorporating the teachings of the present application, and

[0027] Fig. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a method according to the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The term "industrial printer," also known as "industrial-grade printer," as used in this article can refer to types of printers that are specifically designed for heavy-duty printing tasks in industrial environments. 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, reliable printing solutions. They are often more rugged than standard office printers because they need to withstand harsher conditions and longer operating times.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "ribbon," "color ribbon," or "ink ribbon" generally refer to a consumable component used to transfer ink to a print medium, typically paper or labels.

[0030] The term "label" as used herein may include information carrier media that may be made from 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 transparencies, thermal labels, and specialty materials.

[0031] As used herein, the term "label backing" may include one or more different materials that bear the label.

[0032] Figure 1 An exemplary label printer device 100 in which the teachings of the present application may be implemented is shown from one side. The printer device 100 includes a support wall 101 on which is mounted a print head 110, a label supply spool 120 of label stock mounted to a supply spool support 121, a take-up spool 130, a ribbon supply spool 150, a ribbon take-up spool 160, and a plurality of rollers 171, 172, and 173. Each label supply spool 120, take-up spool 130, and roller may be driven directly or indirectly by a corresponding motor or one or more motors with gears / drives.

[0033] The label web 190 with adhesive labels 191 extends from the supply reel 120 along the web path 120 , around the first roller 171 , one side of the second drive roller 172 , around the labeling peeling nozzle 140 , and is wound onto the take-up reel 130 .

[0034] The ink ribbon may extend from a supply spool 150, pass through a printing element (not shown) of the printhead 110 and be wound onto a take-up spool 160. In this embodiment, the printhead 110 comprises a near edge printhead. During a printing operation, ink carried on the ink ribbon is transferred to a label substrate to be printed. To effect the transfer of ink, the printhead contacts the ink ribbon and the ink ribbon contacts the label substrate and is pressed against a drive roller 172. Each of the label and ink ribbon supply spools, take-up spools and rollers may be driven directly or indirectly by a corresponding motor or one or more motors with a gear / drive arrangement.

[0035] Figure 2 From the other side of the support wall 101 is shown Figure 1 The driving mechanism of the printer device 100 is shown in FIG. The backing paper reel 130 is driven by a motor 132 and a pulley 133 through a belt, the rollers 172 and 173 are driven by a motor 170 and a driving belt 171, the ribbon supply device 150 is driven by a motor 152 and a pulley 153, and the ribbon reel 160 is driven by a motor 162 and a pulley 163 through a belt. At least one controller 103 controls various functions of the printer and the motor.

[0036] According to a first example of the disclosed method, a controller of the system is provided with information about when a label should be delivered to an applicator and the system is allowed to decide what needs to be done to deliver each label in a timely manner. The process used processes the labels one by one without requiring information about the previous or next label. The exemplary system includes a label printer and an optional applicator.

[0037] In one exemplary configuration, the (high speed) process may use at least two fixed label feed speeds (Vhigh and Vlow) to achieve maximum performance. If the application is a pure label printing application process, Vlow may be set to zero (0). If the application is a P&A application, a refeed procedure may be used to prepare the printer to print new labels from scratch when there is enough time. For example, in batch mode, when the packaging machine delivers a batch of pallets, for example, 12 pallets will approach the printer with a short time (typically 0.2-0.5 seconds) between the label application trigger signals. After packaging 12, there may be a short time (e.g., a few seconds) until the next batch approaches the printer. Stopping and refeeding should then be performed. Since Vlow is not zero (0), a non-stop process will not be slow enough to handle the long time (a few seconds) between batches.

[0038] During the processing of the current label, the two feed speeds remain unchanged. Between the stationary state and the two feed speeds Vlow and Vhigh, the values ​​of acceleration and deceleration also remain unchanged during the processing of the current label.

[0039] This process allows for maximum performance by feeding labels without stopping between them. The feeding and printing (if used) of each label is handled individually without requiring information about the previous or next label. The shortest available label is determined by the travel distance from rest to Vhigh and back to rest again.

[0040] Figure 3 The label feed speed (v) in meters per second is plotted over time (t) in seconds during the processing time of a P&A application.

[0041] Figure 4 It represents the relationship between the label feeding speed (v) (in meters per second) and the time (t) (in seconds). This process represents the process timing of label application.

[0042] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The print head and label feeding portion of the exemplary printer of Figures 5A-5F Indicates different positions for feeding labels.

[0043] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 The following time representations are indicated in the diagram:

[0044] Ttdn = time n from trigger signal to tag transmission: transmission = position E.

[0045] Tde = feeding time of label from position D to position E.

[0046] Tsb = the time from braking (returning material) at position E to stopping, waiting for Ts, and returning material to position A.

[0047] Ts = delay time for the backing paper to relax before reverse feeding begins.

[0048] Tbf = return time, from static state to static state.

[0049] Taebf = time to feed from position A to position E after returning the material.

[0050] Taccn = time to accelerate tag n from rest to Vhigh.

[0051] Tdec = time to decelerate from Vhigh to standstill.

[0052] Tavh = time to accelerate from Vlow to Vhigh.

[0053] Tvhe=time for feeding the remaining distance to position E at Vhigh.

[0054] according to Figure 3In the label dispensing application implemented in , each label adopts the "non-stop" mode, that is, the label to be applied does not stop during the dispensing process. In this case, there is no need to decide to print at position A. At position E, the speed is still Vhigh and Vlow is basically zero (0). At position C, it starts to slow down to Vlow. Since no printing is performed, no printing distortion will occur by setting Vow=0.

[0055] Figure 3 In the figure, the shaded portion a represents the time and speed for printing the first label, the shaded portion b represents the time and speed for printing the second label, the shaded portion c represents the time and speed for printing the third label, and the shaded portion d represents the time and speed for printing the fourth label.

[0056] exist Figure 5 In the example, the print head 110 prints a plurality of labels 191a-191c and delivers them to the label applicator ( Figure 5 and Figures 5A-5F For ease of description, the focus is on label 191b. The drive roller 172 assists in driving the label roll, and the peeling bar 140 assists in peeling the label from the backing paper 190. Label 191b represents the label currently being printed.

[0057] Figure 5A Label 1 (191b) is shown just in position to begin printing, with the print head 110 at the leading edge of label 191b, or almost at the end of the gap between labels 191b and 191a. Label 191a is separated from the backing paper (not completely separated).

[0058] At position B, Figure 5B As shown, label 191b has traveled a short distance and has been partially printed (if a print command is received). Except for its trailing edge, the first label 191a is almost completely separated from the backing paper.

[0059] exist Figure 5C At position C, label 191b is almost half printed (if a print instruction is received), while label 191a is completely separated from the backing paper and fed out.

[0060] exist Figure 5D In position D, label 191b has been completely printed and the printing process is terminated (if a print instruction is received).

[0061] exist Figure 5E In position E, label 191b is completely separated from the backing paper and fed out. This position also corresponds to position C of label 191c. Label 191c has been printed (if a print instruction is received).

[0062] exist Fig. 5FAt position F, label 191b has been completely peeled off from the backing paper and sent out. Label 191c will be further printed (if a print instruction is received).

[0063] Back to Figure 3 , a trigger signal for printing label 1 is received. The trigger signal may be received relative to a sensor signal for detecting an object to be labeled on a production line. When label 1 (191b, Figure 5A ) is in the printing position, the label is accelerated during Tacci, and the printing process (part a) starts shortly after the acceleration from Vlow to Vhigh begins. When the printing process terminates (position D), Tde is started. Shortly before the printing process is completed, a trigger signal for label 2 can be received. Tsb may occur before label 2 is printed, thereby starting the rewind before printing label 2 (part b). Note that as shown in part c, when label 2 is conveyed, printing label 3 starts immediately after printing label 2. Printing label 4 starts immediately after printing label 3 (part d). The process is described below.

[0064] Figure 5C Position C is depicted, where one of two states can be entered:

[0065] 1. If the label printing process is used and it has been decided to use the return material for the current label 191b, the return material process is started at this time. Before the actual return material starts, the first step will start to slow down to a standstill.

[0066] 2. If the return process is not started, braking / deceleration to Vlow will begin at this time.

[0067] If you use a print flow or trigger a new label, you can decide how to proceed by following these steps:

[0068] Parameters that may be considered may include:

[0069] -tdn remaining time,

[0070] - the remaining distance to position E,

[0071] - the current feed rate, and

[0072] -Variables Vhigh, Vlow, acceleration and deceleration.

[0073] i. At a specific time or tag travel distance, check how long it takes to accelerate back to speed Vhigh (Tavh) and the required distance d. For time calculation or simple real time cycle calculation or tag travel distance, encoder signals from the motor can be used.

[0074] ii. Use the information from step i to check how long it will take to travel to the delivery point (Tvhe) at position E at a constant speed Vhigh.

[0075] iii. If the remaining time of Ttd > Tavh + Tvhe, that is, there is still time to continue decelerating, then continue to decelerate to Vlow. Another reason to continue decelerating to Vlow is that if the printing function is not used, it means that there is no state 1 as mentioned above, and there is no new printer trigger. Eventually, there is an active trigger signal, and the remaining available time of Ttd is no longer greater than Tah + Tvhe, which means it is time to take action and then start accelerating to Vhigh. The change can occur before the deceleration from Vhigh begins, or it can occur before Vhigh reaches position E by a gap length dg (between two labels, Figure 5A ) (for example, for short tags).

[0076] This means that a label of length d1 ( Figure 5 a) and the sum of the length dg of a gap must be long enough so that when there is no time to perform the above state 1, there is enough distance to perform the above state 2. Therefore, when using a specific label length with a specific gap length, Vhigh and Vlow can be set to ensure that the above state 2 can be slow enough and the deceleration and acceleration distances are short enough to intervene when there is no time to perform the return material using the above state 1.

[0077] In order to know when to reach different positions and how far to travel to reach a position, the system may need to know the starting position of a new label, the length of the label, and the length of the gap between labels. This information can be stored in the system controller or measured during calibration.

[0078] Therefore, the constant conveying speed Vhigh at position E makes it easy to calculate how much time is needed to stop and refeed the label 2 (191b) at position A. This in turn makes it easy to decide whether the label 2 should be refeeded.

[0079] If the conveyor speed is variable, the stopping distance is also variable. Therefore, information about the conveyor speed may be required and the corresponding stopping time and distance calculated. The variable stopping distance also affects the feedback distance and / or when the stop is initiated.

[0080] The constant conveying speed at position E makes Tsb and Taebf constant, which can be stored in memory as constants between tags.

[0081] exist Figure 4In this case, the time difference between label "1" and, for example, label "5" is shown to display two different sequences, because label 1 reaches the target speed Vlow = 0, but in the case of example label 5, the speed does not reach Vlow = 0, i.e., the label is fed continuously. In addition, no refeed is used because the dispenser does not need to consider the refeed for the printing operation.

[0082] In Figure 5A this case, at position A, it must be determined whether to continue printing the next label or stop printing and wait for the refeed process.

[0083] At position A, it is controlled whether to trigger a new label. If so, it is checked how much time is left on the Ttd timer. To determine whether there is time for refeed, the remaining label transfer time (Ttd) is compared with the time required to move from position A to position E, including the refeed on the way. The time required for this is the sum of three times, i.e.:

[0084] Tn = Tf + Tsb + Taebf

[0085] where Tf is the time to feed to position C, Tsb is the time to stop and refeed, and Taebf is the time to feed from a stationary state from position A to position E.

[0086] If Tn < Ttd at position A, there is time for feedback.

[0087] Tf is not constant and needs to be evaluated for each label. However, it can be obtained from the label feeding process. At position A, Tf is the same as the remaining transfer time (Ttd) of the label feeding process. This is because position E of the label feeding process is the same as position C of the label printing process.

[0088] In some exemplary embodiments, for example when the same product is provided with multiple labels, the trigger signal can trigger multiple delivery and printing events simultaneously. The reason for multiple parallel timers may be to allow the trigger sensor to move upstream / earlier / further away from the printer / dispenser.

[0089] A controller is provided, for example to measure the remaining distance to position E or to make the necessary calculations and control the label feeding mechanism. The controller needs to control the positioning of the moving label fed by the printer or dispenser relative to the static position. The feeding mechanism may, for example, pull the backing paper, and the pulling is usually done by a backing paper rewinder or a roller pressing on the backing paper. Typically, the controller needs to know the diameter of the roller that does the pulling and the optional transmission between the roller and the motor driving the roller in order to estimate how many labels will be delivered for each change in the motor angle. An alternative approach may be to use a sensor, such as a laser sensor, which is pointed at the moving backing paper to detect the backing paper movement. In this case, the controller does not need to know the roller diameter. The controller can then use a control loop with the sensor as input and the motor position as output. In order for the controller to estimate not only how far the label has been fed, but also the position of the label edge relative to the static position, the controller can receive a signal from a label gap sensor. The gap sensor can then use the known label position to recalibrate the label feeding process. In theory, this recalibration can also be done by a label trigger sensor sensing the leading edge of the label after the label is dispensed.

[0090] Figure 6 An exemplary controller 103 is schematically shown, which communicates and / or controls various units of an exemplary printer or label dispenser (e.g., a printer previously described in the present application) and performs the previously described distribution. The controller 103 can communicate with various sensors of the printer, such as encoders of motors 132, 152, 162, and 170. As previously described, the controller can be independent or part of a printer controller. As previously described, the controller 103 can implement the methods and systems described herein, which may 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 a variety of types of bus structures, which can further 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 may also include one or more power supplies (not shown). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the controller 103 may be configured in a variety of other ways and may include additional or different elements.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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, arrow keys, 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 a user, including a display, a printer, one or more speakers, etc.

[0095] 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.

[0096] The controller 103 is consistent with the content of the present application and provides a platform through which various functions of the labeling machine can be controlled independently or in combination with the printer. The controller 103 can also display information related to the labeling status of the printer related information.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In an exemplary embodiment, Fig. 9 As shown, the controller is arranged as:

[0099] 1. moving the label between the label source and the label dispenser edge portion and delivering the label by moving the label over the label dispenser edge portion of the label dispenser (position E) for application to one or more target objects,

[0100] 2. Controlling the movement of the labels in the label dispenser at at least two different speeds, wherein a first speed (Vhigh) is higher than a second speed (Vlow), and for each label, using a target time (Ttd) between receiving a trigger signal and delivering said label to the label dispenser (position E), and

[0101] 3. If the label's moving speed is different from the first speed (Vhigh)

[0102] 4. Increase the speed of the label to ensure that the label (position E) can basically arrive at the first speed (Vhign) within the target time (Ttd).

[0103] In a printer, e.g. Figure 1 In the printer of the present invention, the controller also controls rollers 172 and 173 by controlling motor 170 to feed and return the backing paper. In some cases, the motor 132 of the reel 130 can also be controlled.

[0104] Thus, the methods described herein may be implemented respectively by a computer program product, comprising instructions, i.e. software code portions, which, when executed on at least processor 1032, cause at least one processor to perform the actions described herein, as performed by control unit 103. The computer program product may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium storing the computer program may comprise instructions, which, when executed on at least one processor, cause at least one processor to perform the actions described herein, as performed by control unit 103. The computer-readable storage medium may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as a CDROM disk or a memory stick. The computer program product may be stored on a carrier containing the computer program just described, wherein the carrier is one of an electronic signal, an optical signal, a radio signal or a first computer-readable storage medium, as described above.

[0105] A computer program product comprises a program code for performing the method described herein when executed by a processing circuit.

[0106] The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes instructions that, when executed by a processing circuit, cause the processing circuit to perform the methods described herein.

[0107] Figure 7 An exemplary labeling system 200 is shown from one side, and includes a label dispenser 210 and a label applicator 220. The labels 19 are pre-printed and provided on a roll 230. The label web supplied from the supply roll 230 passes through the label applicator on the way to the rewind roll 260, and the label is peeled off and applied to the article 250. The sensor 240 detects the article 250 (for example, arranged on a conveyor belt) and provides a signal to feed the label to the label applicator controller (not shown). As previously described, the label is provided to the label applicator part.

[0108] Figure 8The exemplary printing and applying system 100 is shown from one side and includes a label printer 110 and a label applicator 220. Labels 191 are printed by the printer, as described above, and provided to the applicator 220. In this case, the labels are provided in a non-adhesive manner onto the applicator conveyor 221. When an article 250 passes one end of the applicator conveyor, the label is applied to the article 250. The sensor 240 detects the article 250 (e.g., disposed on the conveyor) and provides a print signal to the printer controller (not shown) to trigger label printing and feed the label onto the applicator 220.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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 "said" 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 "include", "comprise", "include" and / or "comprising" used herein specify the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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 method for distributing tags from a tag source (120, 230) to an edge portion of a tag dispenser, the method comprising: - moving the labels between a label source and a label dispenser edge portion and conveying the labels by moving the labels over the label dispenser edge portion of the label dispenser (position E) for application to one or more target objects, The method comprises: - Controlling the movement of labels in the label dispenser at at least two different speeds, wherein a first speed (V high ) is higher than the second speed (V low ),and - For each tag, use a target time (T td ), - If the label's moving speed is equal to the first speed (V high ) is different, the speed of the tag is accelerated so that it can basically reach the target time (T td ) at the first speed (V high ) reaches the label delivery (position E).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the controller further td )'s available time determines whether: - a label rewind is required (state 1), in which case the label (i) is decelerated until its movement stops, and (ii) a rewind operation is performed to bring the label into the correct position for the printing operation (position A), or - No material return is required (state 2), in which case the label printing will be at the first speed (V high ) to proceed.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the controller further td ) to time the print operation in state 2 and decide either: - At the first speed (V high ) to continue printing labels until the labels are completely moved past the edge of the label dispenser, or - decelerate the tag until it reaches the second speed (V low ) and accelerate the tag until it moves at a first speed (V high ) for transport, possibly maintaining the label at the second speed (V low ) for a determined amount of time to match the target time (T td ) available time.

4. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: high ) and the second speed (V low ) with constant acceleration and deceleration.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, the controller further receiving information whether a subsequent label or the label needs to be printed.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein when printing labels, the second speed (V low ) is not equal to 0m / s.

7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the trigger signal is received from an external product detection sensor or an external control system.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein consecutive trigger signals are associated with consecutive tags.

9. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, obtaining information about the start of a new label, the label length and the gap length between consecutive labels measured during a calibration process.

10. A label dispenser for distributing labels to an edge portion of the label dispenser, the label dispenser comprising: - Tag source (120), - the edge part, - a label path extending between the label source and the edge portion, and - a controller configured to control a velocity of the tag in the tag path, wherein the controller is configured to: - moving between a label source and a label dispenser edge portion to the label and transferring the label by moving the label over the label dispenser edge portion of the label dispenser (position E) for application to one or more target objects, - Controlling the movement of labels in the label dispenser at at least two different speeds, wherein a first speed (V high ) is higher than the second speed (V low ),and -For each label, use a target time (T td ), the target time being between receiving the trigger signal and delivering the tag to the tag dispenser (position E), and - Determine whether the tag's moving speed is consistent with the first speed (V high ) is different, the speed of the acceleration tag is basically within the target time (T td ) at the first speed (V high ) reaches the label delivery (position E).

11. The label dispenser according to claim 10, further comprising a printer device (110).

12. The label dispenser according to claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to determine whether a trigger signal for a second label is received before the printing process of the first label is completed, and before printing the second label, if the time (T) of starting to rewind the material when the second label is conveyed to the label dispenser (position E) and stops. sb ) occurs, the rewind is initiated before printing the second label.

13. A label dispenser according to claim 12, wherein the second label is printed while being conveyed, and the printing of the third label is initiated immediately thereafter by the controller (part c).

14. The label dispenser according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is based on the target time (T td )'s available time determines whether: - a rewinding operation is required on the label (state 1), in which case the label is (i) decelerated until its movement stops, and (ii) a rewinding operation is performed to bring the label into the correct position for printing (position A), or - No material return is required (state 2), in which case the label printing will be at the first speed (V high ) to proceed.

15. The label dispenser of claim 12, wherein: The controller further td ) to time the print operation in state 2 and decide either: - At the first speed (V high ) to continue printing labels until the labels are completely moved past the edge of the label dispenser, or - decelerate the tag until it reaches the second speed (V low ) and accelerate the tag until it moves at a first speed (V high ) for transport, possibly maintaining the label at the second speed (V low ) for a determined amount of time to match the target time (T td ) available time.

16. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on at least the processor (1032), cause the at least one processor to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

17. A computer program product comprising program code for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 when executed by a processing circuit.

18. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions, which, when executed by a processing circuit, cause the processing circuit to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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