Techniques and apparatus for tag localization

Abstract

A self-laminating label configured to wrap around an elongate article is disclosed. In aspects, a self-laminating label includes a transparent body portion. The body portion includes a first end opposite the second end and a top side opposite the bottom side. The body portion includes a tab proximate and extending from the first end. The tab is configured to be repositionably attached to a surface of the elongate article. The body portion includes an overlay portion distal from the first end and a printable portion proximal to the first end and between the tab and the overlay portion. The printable portion is configured to be identified with an annotation. The body portion also includes an adhesive coating on the bottom side. The overlay portion is configured to wrap over at least one of the tab or the printable portion.

Description

Technical Field The present invention relates to a technique and apparatus for label positioning. Background Art

[0001] Identification labels are often attached to articles (e.g., elongated objects, wires, cables, hoses, tubes, optical fibers, ducts, bundles thereof). The identification label provides information (e.g., markings) that may be useful in the event that the system including the article requires service, repair, or maintenance. For example, an identification label can provide information related to a wire bundle, identify the function controlled by a bundle of cables, identify the start or end of a wire, identify the wire type, identify a circuit, etc. Identification labels can prevent incorrect connections, improve efficiency and accuracy, reduce the risk of errors, and make problems easier to troubleshoot. In some cases, identification labels are used for safety purposes. For example, identification labels can be used by emergency personnel (such as firefighters and paramedics) to identify battery wires and other high-voltage wires in use.

[0002] Such identification labels typically have a sticky inner surface and an opposite outer surface (e.g., paper, vinyl, polyester), and before installation, the sticky inner surface is carried (e.g., covered) by a removable carrier sheet. In some cases, during the manufacture of the identification label, a heat-transfer printable area is flexibly printed onto the outer surface of the label. This outer surface can be further printed by an operator (e.g., marked or other identification information is printed thereon), enabling the operator to use a heat-transfer printer to print variable data (e.g., wire number) onto the printable area of the label. Since the printable area is opaque (e.g., white), it can form a good contrast with heat-printing ink (e.g., black ink), and the color of the wire does not affect the readability of the label.

[0003] One type of such identification label is a "self-laminating" label. The self-laminating label includes a transparent protective layer configured to wrap around the article and adhere to the outer surface of the label to protect the information on the label from dust, dirt, wear, and other factors that may degrade the printed data on the label. For example, once the outer surface of the label is applied to the article, the transparent protective layer can wrap around the article above the outer surface, thereby laminating and protecting the markings on the label. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This document describes techniques and devices for label positioning.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a label configured to wrap around an article, the label comprising: a transparent body portion including: a first end opposite a second end; a top side opposite a bottom side; a tab near the first end, the tab configured to be repositioned to attach to the surface of the article; an overlay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion near the first end and between the tab and the overlay portion, the printable portion configured to bear a first mark; and an adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, the overlay portion configured to wrap around a wrapped portion of the label.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a label configured to wrap around an article, the label comprising: a transparent body portion including: a first end that defines a leading edge of the transparent body portion; a second end opposite the first end; a top side opposite a bottom side, the top side including: a tab extending from the first end, the tab configured to be repositioned to attach to the surface of the article, the tab including: a pivot point defined in the tab; an overlay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion near the first end and between the tab and the overlay portion, the printable portion configured to bear a first mark; and a repositionable adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, the overlay portion configured to wrap around a wrapped portion of the label, the label configured to pivot about the pivot point before the overlay portion wraps around the wrapped portion, the repositionable attachment of the tab to the article surface configured to allow the label to rotate from an initial position to an alignment position at the tab, in the alignment position, the leading edge of the transparent body portion being visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a self - laminating label configured to wrap around an article, the self - laminating label comprising: a transparent body portion including: a first end opposite a second end; a top side opposite a bottom side; a tab near the first end, the tab configured to be repositionably attached to the surface of the article; an overlay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion near the first end and between the tab and the overlay portion, the printable portion configured to bear a first mark; and an adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, wherein the overlay portion is configured to wrap around at least one of the tab or the printable portion.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a self - laminating label configured to wrap around an item, the self - laminating label comprising: a transparent body portion including: a first end that defines a leading edge of the transparent body portion; a second end opposite the first end; a top side opposite a bottom side, the top side including: a tab extending from the first end, the tab configured to be repositionably attached to a surface of the item, the tab including: a pivot point defined within the tab; an over - lay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion proximate the first end and between the tab and the over - lay portion, the printable portion configured to bear a first mark; and a repositionable adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, wherein the over - lay portion is configured to wrap around at least one of the tab or the printable portion, wherein the self - laminating label is configured to pivot about the pivot point before the over - lay portion wraps around at least one of the tab or the printable portion, wherein the repositionable attachment of the tab to the item surface is configured to allow the self - laminating label to rotate from an initial position to an alignment position at the tab, and wherein, in the alignment position, the leading edge of the transparent body portion is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the item.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a self - laminating label configured to wrap around an item, the self - laminating label comprising: a transparent body portion further including: a first end that defines a leading edge of the transparent body portion; a second end opposite the first end; a longitudinally extending axis extending from the first end to the second end, the longitudinally extending axis defining a centerline; a top side opposite a bottom side, the top side including: an arcuate tab extending from the first end, the tab configured to be repositionably attached to a surface of the item, the tab including: a pivot point defined within the tab on the centerline; an over - lay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion proximate the first end and between the tab and the over - lay portion, the printable portion configured to bear a first mark; and a repositionable adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion; and a removable carrier sheet disposed in contact with the repositionable adhesive coating, the carrier sheet configured to be removable from the repositionable adhesive coating, wherein the over - lay portion is configured to wrap around at least one of the tab or the printable portion, wherein the self - laminating label is configured to pivot about the pivot point before the over - lay portion wraps around at least one of the tab or the printable portion, wherein the repositionable attachment of the tab to the item surface is configured to allow the self - laminating label to rotate from an initial position to an alignment position at the tab, wherein the tab is configured to be repositionably attached to the item surface such that the label can be temporarily attached to and repositioned on the item before applying the printable portion and the over - lay portion to the item without removing the label from the item, and wherein, in the alignment position, the leading edge of the transparent body portion is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the item.

[0010] The present invention content is provided to introduce simplified concepts of technologies and devices for tag positioning, which will be further described in the following detailed implementation and shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention content is neither intended to identify the key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter nor intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] Details of one or more aspects of the technology and apparatus for tag positioning are described with reference to the following drawings, where like reference numerals may indicate similar features and / or components in different instances.

[0012] Figure 1 Is an environmental perspective view of the first tag applied to an article.

[0013] Figure 2 Is a plan view of the first tag adhered to a carrier sheet.

[0014] Figure 3 Is along Figure 2 Sectional view taken along line 3-3.

[0015] Figure 4A Is the first illustration showing an example tag application sequence.

[0016] Figure 4B Is Figure 4A The second illustration in the example tag application sequence.

[0017] Figure 4C Is Figure 4A The third illustration in the example tag application sequence.

[0018] Figure 4D Is Figure 4A The fourth illustration in the example tag application sequence.

[0019] Figure 5A Is a plan view of the second tag.

[0020] Figure 5B Is a plan view of the third tag.

[0021] Figure 5C Is a plan view of the fourth tag. Detailed Implementation

[0022] This document describes technologies and devices for tag positioning. The technologies and devices include improved tags, such as self-laminating tags, which have pivotally positionable tabs configured to be positioned on articles (e.g., wires, cables, hoses, tubes, optical fibers, conduits, bundles thereof). The article can be an elongated article.

[0023] In one aspect, the label includes a body portion. The body portion includes a first end opposite a second end and a top side opposite a bottom side. The body portion includes a tab that is proximate to the first end and extends from the first end (e.g., is connected to, attached to the first end). The body portion also includes a printable portion and an overwrap portion. In some aspects, the body portion may not include a printable portion. The body portion includes an adhesive portion (e.g., an adhesive coating) on the bottom side, which is carried by a removable carrier sheet prior to use. The printable portion is connected to the tab and is configured to wrap around an item and adhere to the outer surface of the tab. At least a portion of the body portion may include a transparent protective layer (e.g., transparent polyvinyl chloride (vinyl), polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc.), which is configured to wrap around the item and adhere to the outer surface of the label (e.g., the outer surface of the tab and / or the outer surface of the overwrap portion) to protect the markings on the printable portion of the body portion from dust, dirt, wear, and other factors that may degrade the information. Once the tab and the printable portion are applied to the item, the overwrap portion can wrap around the item on the wrapped portion of the label, e.g., the outer surface of the tab and / or the printable portion, thereby cladding and protecting the markings on the label.

[0024] The tab is configured to enable an operator to quickly adjust the placement and position of the label on the item before the remainder of the body portion (e.g., the printable portion, the overwrap portion) is wrapped around the tab. For example, the tab can be adhered to the item, and the label rotates relative to the tab while being adhered to the item until the leading edge of the body portion is aligned with the longitudinal axis (A) of the item. After this alignment, the body portion can then be wrapped around the tab and the item to form a wrapped label. In various aspects, the process can include wrapping the opaque printable portion of the body portion around the item, followed by the transparent overwrap portion of the body portion, which wraps around the item to cladding and protect the markings on the opaque printable portion of the label. In this way, the time required to correctly apply the label manually to the item can be reduced.

[0025] The first aspect of the label of the present disclosure is shown in Figures 1 to 4D In Figure 1 the label 100 is shown mounted on an item 190. In this figure, the item 190 is an elongated wire, and the label 100 is applied to (e.g., wrapped around) the outer surface 192 (e.g., an insulating layer) of the item 190 to form a wrapped label. Information (e.g., a first marking 110, a second marking 112) is provided on the label 100. The information can include, for example, text, symbols, machine-readable codes (e.g., barcodes), etc. In various aspects, the label 100 is a self-laminating label that includes a transparent overwrap portion that covers and protects the information provided on the label.

[0026] Figure 2 is Figure 1Plan view of the label 100, showing it located on the carrier sheet 270. The carrier sheet 270 can be a removable carrier strip. Figure 3 is Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of the same. The carrier sheet 270 is disposed along an adhesive coating 310 provided on one or more bottom surfaces of the label 100. The carrier sheet 270 can include one or more of a silicone-coated paper liner, a paper carrier, a removable liner, a backing layer, a wax sheet, etc. Although not shown, the label 100 can be provided in the form of a strip or a roll of labels together with other labels. In Figure 2 it, the label 100 is shown as being temporarily attached to the carrier sheet 270 (e.g., a paper carrier, a removable liner, a backing layer, a wax sheet). The carrier sheet 270 serves to protect the adhesive coating 310 before installation. The adhesive coating 310 is located on the bottom side 304 of the main body portion, as further described below. The adhesive coating 310 of the label 100 can be temporarily adhered to the carrier sheet 270. In this way, the label 100 is configured to be peeled off or otherwise removed from the carrier sheet 270 to expose the adhesive side of the label 100.

[0027] Although Figure 2 and Figure 3 show a single label, one or more labels can be provided in one or more rows on the carrier sheet 270, and the carrier sheet 270 can be provided in one or more strips or sheets. The adhesive coating 310 of the label 100 can be positioned on the carrier sheet 270 before and / or during printing of marks on the label 100. The carrier sheet 270 is configured to be removed from the label 100 to expose the adhesive coating 310. After removing the carrier sheet 270, the adhesive-coated side (e.g., the bottom side 304) of the label 100 can be applied to the article 190 to which the label is to be attached, and the label 100 can be wrapped around the article 190. Removing (e.g., delaminating) the label 100 from the carrier sheet 270 to expose the adhesive coating 310 can include bending the label or a portion thereof, folding the label or a portion thereof, rolling the label or a portion thereof, an operator inserting a fingernail under the label, automatic dispensing of the label by a machine, and / or one or more of other methods.

[0028] In this regard, the label 100 is a self-laminating label including a main body portion 230. The main body portion 230 can include an overlapping portion 250, a printable portion 232, and a tab 210 extending (e.g., connected to, attached to the printable portion 232) from the printable portion 232. The tab 210, the printable portion 232, and the overlapping portion 250 can be positioned end-to-end along the length of the label 100.

[0029] The label 100 may include a top side 302 and a bottom side 304. The top side 302 faces outward (e.g., away from the carrier sheet 270 when the label 100 is disposed on the carrier sheet 270), and the bottom side 304 faces inward (e.g., toward the carrier sheet 270 when the label 100 is disposed on the carrier sheet 270). The bottom side 304 includes an adhesive coating 310. The adhesive coating 310 may be carried by the carrier sheet 270 before the label 100 or a portion thereof is removed from the carrier sheet 270. The bottom side 304 is configured to contact the outer surface 192 of the article 190.

[0030] The printable portion 232 is configured to receive markings (e.g., a first marking 110, a second marking 112) on the top side 302, for example. Although in various aspects, the markings may be ink-printed on the printable portion 232, for illustrative purposes (e.g., in Figure 3 ), the first marking 110 and the second marking 112 are schematically shown. The printable portion 232 may include a thermal transfer printable area that is flexographically printed by applying the first marking 110 (e.g., during label manufacture, prior to applying the label), which renders at least a portion of the printable portion 32 opaque (e.g., white). The flexographic printing of the first marking 110 may extend onto the tab 210 to render at least a portion of the tab 210 opaque. The second marking 112 (e.g., black or a color contrasting with the first marking 110) may be printed on the printable portion 232, for example, on top of the first marking 110, as Figure 3 schematically shown. A standard thermal transfer printer, an inkjet printer using liquid ink, a "laser beam" printer using toner, etc., not shown, may be used to print markings on the label 100 in the printable area.

[0031] One or more adhesives may be provided or otherwise coated onto the underside 304 of the label 100, such as in an adhesive coating 310 on the underside 304 of the label 100. Examples of adhesives that may be used for the adhesive coating include repositionable adhesives and permanent adhesives. As used herein, the term "repositionable adhesive" generally refers to an adhesive (e.g., removable adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive) that has an adhesive strength (e.g., tack, stickiness) sufficient to adhere immediately upon loading, but is capable of repositioning (e.g., rotating) the label to another location. As used herein, the term "permanent adhesive" generally refers to an adhesive that has an adhesive strength (e.g., tack, stickiness) intended to firmly bond two components together such that they do not separate during normal use. A permanent adhesive may allow the label to be repositioned to another location prior to the final permanent bond. In such cases, the permanent adhesive may be repositionable during an initial stage after the first application and achieve a full (e.g., permanent) bond after a period of time (e.g., after several hours). The adhesive coating 310 may form a strong bond with the underside 304 of the label 100, but only a weak bond with the carrier sheet 270.

[0032] The tab 210 is configured to position the label 100 on an article (e.g., Figure 1 the article 190 shown in). The tab 210 extends from the printable portion 232. In Figure 2 the aspect shown, the tab 210 is centered on the first end 236 of the body portion 230 and is located on the first end 236 between the first side 242 and the second side 244 of the body portion 230. The first end 236 may be positioned orthogonally to the first side 242 and the second side 244. The tab 210 has a first end 218 that is opposite to the second end 220, and the second end 220 is connected to and extends from the first end 236. The tab 210 has a first side 212 that is opposite to the second side 214. In aspects, the first side 212 is spaced apart from the first side 242, and the second side 214 is spaced apart from the second side 244. The first width (W1) of the tab 210 may be defined between the first side 212 and the second side 214. The label 100 has a generally longitudinally extending axis (e.g., centerline (C / L)) that extends along the X-axis from the first end 218 to the second end 260. The first side 242 and the second side 244 may be equidistant from the centerline. In aspects, the label 210 is centered on the centerline.

[0033] For clarity, a Cartesian coordinate system is used and in Figures 2 to 4CMarkings are made in it. The coordinate system includes three dimensions, namely the X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis. Each of the three axes is orthogonal to the other two axes. The X-axis and the Y-axis define a horizontal plane, and the Z-axis is in the vertical direction. Although the origin of the coordinate system can be placed at any point on or near the component of the label, for the purpose of description, unless otherwise specified, the axes of the coordinate system are always arranged in the same direction between figures. In some examples, dimensions, angles, directions, relative positions, and / or motions related to one or more components of the label with respect to the coordinate system can be referred to. For example, the length of the label can be defined as the dimension along the X-axis of the coordinate system, the width of the label can be defined as the dimension along the Y-axis of the coordinate system, and the thickness of the label can be defined as the dimension along the Z-axis of the coordinate system.

[0034] In Figures 2 to 4C the aspect shown, the tab 210 extends from the first end 236 (e.g., from the leading edge 234) of the body portion 230 and enables the label 100 to be initially applied to the article 190. The tab 210 enables the label 100 to be repositioned on the article 190 without removing it from the article 190, and the repositioning occurs before the printable portion 232 is applied to the article 190 and / or before the overlay portion 250 is applied to the article 190. In other words, the tab 210 can be pivotally positioned and is configured to enable an operator to quickly adjust the placement and position of the label 100 on the article 190 before the remainder of the body portion 230 (e.g., the printable portion 232, the overlay portion 250) is wrapped around the tab 210 and the article 190, e.g., as Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 4C and Figure 4D shown. In other aspects, the tab 210 enables the label 100 to be removed from the article 190 and then reapplied to the article 190.

[0035] In this example, the bottom side 304 of the tab 210 is configured to initially adhere to the outer surface 192 of the article 190 in a first position. The tab 210 defines a pivot point 208 of the label 100 relative to the article 190. The pivot point 208 can be located at any position within the tab 210, and the origin of the coordinate system can be placed at any point on or near the pivot point 208. In this way, the label 100 can rotate about the origin of the horizontal plane (e.g., about the XOY plane). After the tab 210 is adhered to the outer surface 192 of the article 190, the label 100 can pivot relative to the pivot point 208 in a first rotational direction ( Figure 4A shown) and / or in a second rotational direction ( Figure 4B shown) until the leading edge 234 of the body portion 230 is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis (A) of the article 190, as Figure 4CAs shown. In various aspects, the operator can apply downward pressure on the tab 210 at the pivot point 208 during rotation to maintain the tab 210 on the outer surface 192 of the article 190. After determining the visual alignment of the leading edge 234 with the longitudinal axis, the operator can then wrap the remaining portion of the body part 230 to overlay the tab 210 and attach the tab 210 to the article 190, as Figure 4D shown.

[0036] In various aspects, a portion of the body part 230 (e.g., the overlay portion 250) overlays and protects markings (e.g., the first marking 110, the second marking 112) printed on the printable portion 232 of the label 100. In one example, wrapping the body part 230 to overlay the tab 210 includes wrapping the printable portion 232 of the body part 230 around the article 190 and over the tab 210, and then wrapping the overlay portion 250 (e.g., a transparent protective layer) of the body part 130 over the tab 210 and / or the printable portion 232. In this way, the time required to correctly apply the label by hand to the article can be reduced. Wrapping the body part 230 (e.g., the printable portion 232 and / or the overlay portion 250) around the article 190 and over the tab 210 can fix the position of the tab 210 on the article 190. In this way, further movement (e.g., pivoting) of the tab 210 relative to the article 190 is prevented.

[0037] Operators often find that some articles are more difficult to label accurately than others. For example, small-diameter conductors (e.g., small-gauge wire) tend not to be perfectly straight, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including the elasticity of the conductor material, the drawing process during conductor manufacturing, winding the conductor onto a spool, unwinding the conductor from a spool, etc. When the label is wound around the conductor, this non-straightness makes it difficult for the operator to maintain alignment throughout, which typically results in the distal end of the label being misaligned (e.g., offset, applied at an angle) relative to the proximal end of the label on the article. Using a label (e.g., label 100) that includes a tab (e.g., tab 210) configured to be pivotally positioned can allow the operator to apply the label to the small-diameter conductor more cleanly and professionally. In this way, the time required to correctly apply the label by hand to the article can be reduced, and the consistency of label application can be improved.

[0038] In Figure 2 the tab 210 is shown as an arcuate (e.g., semi-circular) tab. In other aspects, the tab can have other shapes, including but not limited to triangular, polygonal, and other shapes. For example, Figures 5A to 5C is a plan view of other aspects of the label. In Figure 5A the label 510 shown, the label 512 has a second arc. In Figure 5BIn the label 520 shown, the label 522 is triangular. In Figure 5C In the label 530 shown, the label 532 is polygonal.

[0039] In Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the aspects shown, the body portion 230 includes a printable portion 232 and an overlying portion 250. The printable portion 232 is configured to receive markings (e.g., a first marking 110, a second marking 112). For example, a thermal transfer printer can be used to print markings (e.g., variable data, wire numbers) onto the printable portion 232 of the label 100. In various aspects, at least a portion of the printable portion 232 is opaque.

[0040] The printable portion 232 is also configured to wrap around an item. For example, in various aspects, a portion of the printable portion 232 can be configured to wrap around an item (e.g., item 190) and cover a tab 210 adhered to the item, such as, for example, as Figures 4A to 4D shown and described below.

[0041] In Figure 2 In the aspects shown, the tab 210 is connected at the printable portion 232. In other aspects, the printable portion 232 can be spaced apart from the tab 210. The printable portion 232 includes a first side 242 opposite a second side 244, and the first side and the second side define a second width (W2) therebetween. In Figure 2 In the aspects shown, the second width (W2) is also the width of the overlying portion 250. In Figure 2 In the aspects shown, the second width (W2) is greater than twice the first width (W1). In other words, the width of the tab 210 is less than half the width of the printable portion 232. The width of the tab 210 being less than the width of the printable portion 232 can facilitate easier removal of the label 100 from a carrier sheet (e.g., carrier sheet 270) carrying the label 100. For example, an operator can more easily bend the carrier sheet at the tab 210, or otherwise manipulate the tab 210 and release the tab 210 from the carrier sheet, thereby causing the label 100 to disengage from the carrier sheet. In this way, the operator can perform label application work more quickly. In other aspects, the second width (W2) can be equal to or less than twice the width of the first width (W1). In other words, the width of the tab 210 can be equal to or greater than half the width of the printable portion 232.

[0042] The measured values and dimensions of the tags disclosed herein may vary depending on the implementation, and any measured values provided herein are merely examples. In one example, the first width (W1) is 0.4 inches (10.16 millimeters), the second width (W2) is 1.125 inches (28.575 millimeters), the length (L1) of the tab 210 is 0.125 inches (3.175 millimeters), and the length (L2) of the body portion 230 is 1.5625 inches (39.6875 millimeters).

[0043] The printable portion 232 also includes a first end 236 that is opposite the second end 240. The first end 236 may include one or more portions (e.g., a first end portion 238 and a second end portion 246 that are located on opposite sides of the tab 210). The first end 236 (e.g., the first end portion 238 and the second end portion 246) may define a leading edge 234 that is configured to align the label 100 on the article 190. In this way, the tab 210 is configured to enable an operator to quickly adjust the placement and position of the label 100 on the article 190 before the remaining portions of the body portion 230 of the label 100 (e.g., the printable portion 232, the overlapping portion 250) are wrapped around the tab 210, as Figures 4A to 4D shown. For example, the tab 210 may be adhered to the article 190 and the label 100 is rotated relative to the tab 210 until the leading edge 234 of the body portion 230 is aligned with the longitudinal axis (A) of the article 190. After this alignment, the printable portion 232 may be wrapped around the article 190, followed by the overlapping portion 250, to cover and protect the markings on the label 100. In some cases, at least one of the printable portion 232 or the overlapping portion 250 covers the tab 210 when wrapped. In these ways, in some cases, the time to correctly apply the label by hand to the article can be reduced. In another example, the tab 210 may initially be adhered to the article 190 and then removed and reapplied to the article 190 by the operator.

[0044] The material of the main body portion 230 may include paper, transparent polyvinyl chloride (vinyl), polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. In aspects where the material of the main body portion 230 is a transparent material (e.g., transparent polyvinyl chloride (vinyl)), the overlay portion 250 acts as a transparent protective layer configured to wrap around the article 190 and adhere to the top side 302 of the label 100. In this way, the overlay portion 250 can protect the information (e.g., markings) printed on the printable portion 232 from dust, dirt, abrasion, and other factors that may degrade the information. For example, once the tab 210 and the printable portion 232 are applied to the article 190, the overlay portion 250 can wrap around the article 190 on the wrapping portion 224 of the label, where the wrapping portion 224 is, for example, the outer surface (e.g., the top side 302) of the tab 210 and / or the printable portion 32, thereby covering and protecting the markings on the label 100. The overlay portion 250 also includes a first end 258 opposite the second end 260. In Figure 2 In the aspect shown, the first end 258 is connected to the second end 240 of the printable portion 232.

[0045] The disclosed label is configured to enable an operator to use the tab to adjust the placement and position of the label on the article before the main body portion (e.g., the printable portion, the overlay portion) of the label is wrapped around the article. For example, the tab can be adhered to the article and the label can be rotated about the tab until the leading edge of the main body portion is aligned with the longitudinal axis (A) of the article. After this alignment, the printable portion can be wrapped around the article, followed by the overlay portion, to cover and protect the markings on the label. In this way, in some cases, the time required to correctly manually apply the label to the article can be reduced.

[0046] In various aspects, the tab 210 is also configured to facilitate easier removal of the label from the carrier sheet carrying the label. For example, the operator can bend the carrier sheet at the tab 210 or otherwise manipulate the tab 210 and release the tab 210 from the carrier sheet, thereby causing the label to disengage from the carrier sheet. In this way, the operator can perform the label application work more quickly.

[0047] In the drawings, the labels (e.g., label 100, label 510, label 520, label 530) are shown as having rounded corners. In other aspects, one or more corners of the label may not be rounded.

[0048] There may be markings on the label, for example, as Figures 5A to 5CAs shown. In the first example, as described above, the printing of the first mark can extend onto the tab such that at least a portion of the label is opaque. In another example, the mark on the tab can have a color that is beneficial in low light (e.g., metallic, reflective, a color different from the color of the article). In another example, the tab can include a texture different from the rest of the label, such as by applying a rough surface additive (e.g., a lattice pattern, dot pattern, or other pattern on a heated punch around the tab feature), a textured tab coating, etc. In another example, the top side of the label at the tab can include a coating (e.g., an adhesive coating, a sticky coating, a high-friction rubber-like coating) configured to improve visibility and / or make it easier for an operator to grasp the label during the application process, which can be beneficial in low light conditions and / or wet, dusty, and / or oily environments).

[0049] In other respects, there may be no adhesive coating at the tab on the bottom side of the label. In this way, the operator can more easily remove the tab (and / or the label) from the carrier sheet.

[0050] The present disclosure also describes example methods that can operate alone or all or in part together. The disclosed label is configured for use in an improved label application process. The label application process can prevent the operator from contaminating the printable portion of the label (e.g., prevent the operator from inadvertently soiling the mark on the printable portion during the application process, prevent the oil on the operator's skin from degrading the integrity of the adhesive coating). In one example process, the user loosens the label from the carrier sheet and peels the label from the carrier sheet without contacting the printable portion of the label. Then, the user applies the label of the label to the article with a finger. The user places a finger on the tab and adjusts the placement and position of the label on the article (e.g., by rotating the label relative to the tab until the leading edge of the body portion is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article). Once aligned, the user wraps the body portion (e.g., the printable portion, the overlying portion) of the label around the article without physically contacting (or minimally contacting) the printable portion of the label. In this way, the mark on the printable portion is not degraded.

[0051] Also disclosed is a method of wrapping a self - laminating label around an elongate article (e.g., a wire). In one aspect, a self - laminating label is provided that includes a body portion. The label includes a bottom side on which an adhesive coating is disposed. The body portion includes a first end opposite a second end, a printable portion near the first end, a transparent overlay portion remote from the first end, and a tab extending from the printable portion. The first end of the body portion defines a leading edge. The printable portion is configured to be marked with indicia. The tab is configured to be repositionably attached to the surface of the elongate article. The tab includes a pivot point. The method further includes applying the tab to the outer surface of the elongate article via the adhesive coating and rotating the label from an initial position to an alignment position about the pivot point, wherein in the alignment position, the leading edge is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article. After determining the visual alignment, the remainder of the body portion is wrapped around at least one of the tab or the opaque printable portion to form a wrapped label.

[0052] A second aspect of a method of wrapping a self - laminating label around an elongate article includes providing a self - laminating label that includes a body portion having a tab. The body portion includes a first end opposite a second end, a printable portion near the first end, a transparent overlay portion remote from the first end, and a bottom side having an adhesive coating. The first end defines a leading edge and the tab extends from the first end. The tab is configured to be repositionably attached to the surface of the elongate article. The tab includes a pivot point. The method further includes applying a first mark to the printable portion to render at least a portion of the printable portion opaque and applying a second mark on top of at least one portion of the first mark. The method further includes applying the tab to the outer surface of the elongate article via the adhesive coating and rotating the label from an initial position to an alignment position about the pivot point, wherein in the alignment position, the leading edge is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article. After determining the visual alignment, the remainder of the body portion is wrapped around at least one of the tab or the printable portion to form a wrapped label. In various aspects, the printable portion is transparent prior to applying the first mark.

[0053] Some additional examples of label positioning techniques and devices are as follows:

[0054] Example 1. A label configured to wrap around an article, the label comprising: a transparent body portion including: a first end opposite a second end; a top side opposite a bottom side; a tab near the first end configured to be repositioned to attach to the surface of the article; an overlay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion near the first end and between the tab and the overlay portion, the printable portion being configured to be marked with a first mark; and an adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, the overlay portion being configured to wrap around a wrapped portion of the label.

[0055] Example 2. The label according to Example 1, wherein the wrapped portion of the label further includes at least one of a tab or a printable portion.

[0056] Example 3. The label according to Example 2, further comprising: a pivot point defined on the tab, wherein the label is configured to pivot about the pivot point before the overlay portion is wrapped around at least one of the tab or the printable portion.

[0057] Example 4. The label according to Example 3, wherein the transparent body portion has a longitudinally extending axis extending from a first end to a second end, the longitudinally extending axis defining a centerline; and wherein the pivot point is located on the centerline.

[0058] Example 5. The label according to Example 1, wherein the first end of the transparent body portion defines a leading edge, wherein the repositionable connection of the tab to the surface of the article is configured to allow the label to rotate from an initial position to an aligned position at the tab; and wherein, in the aligned position, the leading edge of the transparent body portion is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article.

[0059] Example 6. The label according to Example 1, wherein the tab is centered at the first end of the transparent body portion.

[0060] Example 7. The label according to Example 1, wherein the transparent body portion has a longitudinally extending axis extending from a first end to a second end, the longitudinally extending axis defining a centerline; wherein the tab has a first side opposite a second side, the first side and the second side defining a width therebetween; and wherein the width of the tab is centered at the centerline on the first end of the transparent body portion.

[0061] Example 8. The label according to Example 1, wherein the tab has a first side opposite a second side, the second side defining a width therebetween; and wherein the first side and the second side of the tab are spaced apart from the respective first end and second end of the transparent body portion.

[0062] Example 9. The label according to Example 1, wherein the tab has a first side opposite a second side, the second side defining a width therebetween; and wherein the width of the tab is less than half the width of the printable portion of the label.

[0063] Example 10. The label according to Example 1, wherein the adhesive coating is repositionable.

[0064] Example 11. The label according to Example 1, wherein the printable portion is marked with a first mark; and wherein the first mark renders at least a portion of the printable portion opaque; and wherein the printable portion is further marked with a second mark on top of the first mark.

[0065] Example 12. The label according to Example 1, wherein the printable portion is marked with a first mark; and wherein the first mark renders at least a portion of the printable portion opaque.

[0066] Example 13. The label according to Example 1, wherein the printable portion is further marked with a second mark on top of the first mark.

[0067] Example 14. The label according to Example 1, wherein the tab is configured to be repositioned to attach to a surface of an article so that the label can be temporarily attached to and repositioned on the article without removing the label from the article prior to applying the printable portion and the overlay portion to the article.

[0068] Example 15. The label according to Example 1, wherein the tab is at least one of arcuate, triangular, or polygonal.

[0069] Example 16. The label according to Example 1, further comprising: a removable carrier sheet disposed in contact with the adhesive coating, the removable carrier sheet configured to be removable from the adhesive coating.

[0070] Example 17. A label configured to wrap around an article, the label comprising: a transparent body portion including: a first end that defines a leading edge of the transparent body portion; a second end opposite the first end; a top side opposite a bottom side, the top side including: a tab extending from the first end, the tab configured to be repositioned to attach to a surface of the article, the tab including: a pivot point defined in the tab; an overlay portion remote from the first end; and a printable portion near the first end and between the tab and the overlay portion, the printable portion configured to be marked with a first mark; and a repositionable adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, the overlay portion configured to wrap around a wrapped portion of the label, the label configured to pivot about the pivot point before the overlay portion wraps around the wrapped portion, the repositionable attachment of the tab to the article surface configured to allow the label to rotate from an initial position to an alignment position at the tab, in the alignment position, the leading edge of the transparent body portion being visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article.

[0071] Example 18. The label according to Example 17, wherein the wrapped portion of the label includes at least one of a tab or a printable portion.

[0072] Example 19. The label according to Example 17, wherein the tab is at least one of arcuate, triangular, or polygonal.

[0073] Example 20. The label according to Example 17, further comprising: a removable carrier sheet disposed in contact with the repositionable adhesive coating, the removable carrier sheet configured to be removable from the repositionable adhesive coating.

[0074] Unless the context otherwise requires, words or phrases used herein may be considered to be used in the inclusive sense, or to permit the inclusion or application of one or more items linked by the words or phrases (e.g., the phrase "A or B" may be interpreted as permitting only "A", only "B", or both "A" and "B"). Further, as used herein, a phrase referring to "at least one of" a series of items means any combination of those items, including a single member. For example, "at least one of a, b, or c" may cover a, b, c, a-b, a-c, b-c, and a-b-c, as well as any combination with multiples of the same element (e.g., a-a, a-a-a, a, b, a-a-c, a-b-b, a-c-c, b-b, b-b-b, b, b-c, c-c, and c-c, or any other ordering of a, b, and c). Further, items represented in the drawings and terms discussed herein may represent one or more items or terms, and thus the singular or plural forms of items and terms in the description herein may be referred to interchangeably.

[0075] Although implementations of techniques and devices for tag localization have been described in language specific to certain features and / or methods, the subject matter of the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as example implementations of techniques and devices for tag localization.

Claims

1. A label configured to wrap around an article, the label comprising: A transparent body portion, the transparent body portion comprising: A first end opposite a second end; A top side opposite a bottom side; A tab near the first end, the tab configured to be repositioned to attach to the surface of the article; An overlapping portion away from the first end; and A printable portion near the first end and between the tab and the overlapping portion, the printable portion configured to mark a first mark; and An adhesive coating on the bottom side of the transparent body portion, the overlapping portion configured to wrap around a wrapped portion of the label.

2. The label according to claim 1, characterized in that, The wrapped portion of the label further comprises at least one of the tab or the printable portion.

3. The label according to claim 2, characterized in that, Further comprising: A pivot point defined on the tab, wherein the label is configured to pivot about the pivot point before the overlapping portion wraps around at least one of the tab or the printable portion.

4. The label according to claim 3, wherein Among them, The transparent body portion has a longitudinally extending axis extending from the first end to the second end, the longitudinally extending axis defining a centerline; and Wherein the pivot point is located on the centerline.

5. The label according to claim 1, Wherein The first end of the transparent body portion defines a leading edge, Wherein the repositionable attachment of the tab to the surface of the article is configured to allow the label to rotate from an initial position to an alignment position at the tab; and Wherein, in the alignment position, the leading edge of the transparent body portion is visually aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article.

6. The label according to claim 1, wherein The tab is centered on the first end of the transparent body portion.

7. The label according to claim 1, wherein Among them, The transparent body portion has a longitudinally extending axis extending from the first end to the second end, the longitudinally extending axis defining a centerline; Wherein the tab has a first side opposite a second side, the first side and the second side defining a width therebetween; and Wherein the width of the tab is centered on the centerline at the first end of the transparent body portion.

8. The label according to claim 1, wherein Among them, The tab has a first side opposite a second side, the first side and the second side defining a width therebetween; and Wherein the first side and the second side of the tab are spaced apart from the respective first end and second end of the transparent body portion.

9. The label according to claim 1, wherein Among them, The tab has a first side opposite a second side, the first side and the second side defining a width therebetween; and Wherein the width of the tab is less than half the width of the printable portion of the label.

10. The tag according to claim 1, wherein The adhesive coating is repositionable.

11. The label according to claim 1, Wherein The printable portion marks the first mark; and Wherein the first mark renders at least a portion of the printable portion opaque; and Wherein the printable portion further marks a second mark on top of the first mark.

12. The label according to claim 1, wherein: Among them, the printable portion bears the first mark; and wherein the first mark renders at least a portion of the printable portion opaque.

13. The label according to claim 1, characterized in that The printable portion further bears a second mark on top of the first mark.

14. The tag according to claim 1, wherein The tab is configured to be repositioned to attach to a surface of the article such that the label can be temporarily attached to and repositioned on the article without removing the label from the article prior to applying the printable portion and the overlay portion to the article.

15. The label according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tab is at least one of arcuate, triangular, or polygonal.

16. The label according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further comprising: a removable carrier sheet disposed in contact with the adhesive coating, the removable carrier sheet being configured to be removable from the adhesive coating.

Images