Automatic label creator and method for can decoration

Abstract

A can decoration system includes: a can decoration machine including at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations; and a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator. The control station includes: an input device; a display; a control system configured to monitor and control operation of the can decorator; and an automatic label creator configured to receive a label specification, create a label, determine a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specification and data associated with a previously applied label, and transmit at least the label and the value to the control station. The control system adjusts the plate cylinder and the inking station based on the label and the value for image registration. A plate cylinder and an inking station print a label on an undecorated can based on the label and the value.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 237,456, filed on August 24, 2023, entitled “Automatic Label Creator And Method For Can Decorating”. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed concepts generally relate to equipment and methods for decorating cans using a can decorating machine, and more specifically, to an automatic label creator and method for can decoration. Background Technology

[0004] High-speed, continuous motion machines used for decorating cans (commonly referred to as "can decorating machines" or simply "can decorating machines") are well-known. Figure 1 Showing can decorator 10. (As shown) Figure 1 As shown, the can decorating machine 10 includes a feed conveyor 15 that receives cans 16 from a can supply source (not shown) and guides these cans along the periphery of spaced-apart parallel rings fixed to a recessed wheel 12 to an arcuate bracket or recess 17. The recessed wheel 12 is securely fixed to a continuously rotating mandrel bearing wheel 18, which is in turn keyed to a continuously rotating horizontal drive shaft 19. Horizontal spindles or mandrels (not shown), each pivotable about its own axis, are mounted to the mandrel bearing wheel 18 adjacent to its periphery. Downstream of the feed conveyor 15, each spindle or mandrel is axially aligned closely spaced from a separate recess 17, and undecorated cans 16 are passed from the recess 17 to the mandrel. Suction applied through the axial channel of the mandrel draws the cans 16 into their final placement position on the mandrel.

[0005] When mounted on the mandrel, each can 16 is decorated by engaging with a rubber blanket (e.g., but not limited to, a replaceable rubber sheet backed with adhesive) on a rubber blanket wheel of a multicolor printing unit generally indicated by reference numeral 22. Thereafter, and while still mounted on the mandrel, the outer side of each decorated can 16 is coated with a varnish protective film applied by engaging with the periphery of a varnish applicator roller (not shown), which rotates on shaft 23 in a varnish coating unit generally indicated by reference numeral 24. The cans 16, with their decorative and protective coating, are then transferred from the mandrel to a suction cup (not shown) mounted adjacent to the periphery of a transfer wheel (not shown) rotating on shaft 28 of a transfer unit 27. The cans 16 are then placed from the transfer unit 27 onto generally horizontal pins 29 carried by a chain conveyor 30 that transports the cans 16 through a curing oven (not shown).

[0006] As it moves in a direction to engage with the unadorned can 16, the blanket wheel engages a plurality of plate cylinders 31, each of which is associated with a separate inking station 32 (eight exemplary inking stations 32 are shown in Figure 1 Fig. 1). The plurality of plate cylinders 31 and inking stations 32 place a label on the can 16 based on specifications from a supplier. Typically, each inking station 32 provides a different color of ink, and each plate cylinder 31 applies a different ink image portion to the blanket. All of the "ink image" portions combine to create a "master image" (i.e., a label) that is configured to be applied to the can body. The "master image" is then transferred to the unadorned can 16 and becomes a "can body applied image" as used herein.

[0007] Each inking station 32 includes a plurality of rollers, or as used herein, rolls, that are configured to transfer an amount of ink from a reservoir (or as used herein, an "ink fountain" to the blanket. As used herein, the path that the ink travels is referred to as an "ink train." That is, the rolls over which the ink travels define the "ink train." Further, as used herein, the "ink train" has a direction in which the ink fountain is at the "upstream" end of the ink train and the plate cylinder 31 is at the "downstream" end of the ink train.

[0008] The ink train extends over a number of rolls, each of which has a purpose. As shown, the ink train begins at the ink fountain and is initially applied as a film to the ink fountain roll. The ink fountain roll is intermittently engaged by an inking roll. When the inking roll engages the ink fountain roll, an amount of ink is transferred to the inking roll. The inking roll also intermittently engages a downstream roll and transfers ink to the downstream roll. The inking roll has a "duty cycle," which as used herein refers to the ratio of the duration that the inking roll is in contact with the ink fountain roll divided by the duration of a complete cycle (inking roll in contact with ink fountain roll, moves to first downstream roll, comes into contact with first steel roll, moves back to ink fountain roll).

[0009] Other rolls include, but are not limited to, one or more distribution rolls, one or more oscillator rolls, and one or more transfer rolls. Generally, these rolls are configured to distribute the ink so that an appropriate amount of ink is applied to the plate cylinder 31 substantially uniformly. For example, the oscillator rolls are configured to oscillate longitudinally about their axis of rotation in order to spread out the ink as it is applied to the next downstream roll. The last roll is the plate cylinder 31 that applies the ink to the blanket. It should be appreciated that each inking station 32 applies a selected single color "ink image" to the blanket, and each inking station 32 must apply the ink image in the proper position relative to the other ink images so that the master image does not have offset ink images.

[0010] Accordingly, as used herein, "ink image" refers to an image of a single ink color that is part of a "master image." As used herein, "master image" refers to an image created from a number of ink images, and the image is the image applied to the can as a "can body application image." It should be understood that the "master image" contains a number of ink images, typically a plurality of ink images. For example, if the master image is the French flag (which is a tricolor flag having three vertical stripes of colors blue (pole side), white, and red), then the inking station 32 with blue ink will provide an ink image of a blue rectangle, the inking station 32 with white ink will provide an ink image of a white rectangle, and the inking station 32 with red ink will provide an ink image of a red rectangle. Further, assume that the master image is the French flag and the pole side is on the left side, then the inking station 32 with blue ink will provide a blue rectangle ink image on the left side of the blanket, the inking station 32 with white ink will provide a white rectangle ink image on the center of the blanket next to the blue rectangle ink image, and the inking station 32 with red ink will provide a red rectangle ink image on the right side of the blanket next to the white rectangle ink image. Once all of the ink images are applied to the blanket, the master image is formed and then applied to the can.

[0011] Currently, an operator of the can decorator 10 needs to manually adjust mechanical components of the can decorator 10 (such as, but not limited to, the plate cylinder 31 and the inking stations 32) in order to determine values (such as, set values, ink recipes containing color parameters, etc.) for image registration for printing the label. Typically, the operator must make small movements or adjustments to the mechanical components and then check the can 16 to see if the label is present as specified by the label specification received from the supplier. The operator repeats the manual adjustments until the label is properly present on the can 16. Such manual adjustments require guesswork by the operator until the label is properly present on the can 16. Further, sometimes, a label that appears to be correct can not fully comply with the label specification, resulting in wasted time and cans.

[0012] In the can manufacturing process, there is still room for improvement in the creation of labels for cans. SUMMARY

[0013] These and other needs are met by a can decoration system. The can decoration system includes a can decorator including at least a plurality of printing plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, each printing plate cylinder being associated with a separate inking station, and a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator, the control station including an input device configured to receive an input including at least a label specification, a display configured to display real-time information including at least the label specification, a control system configured to monitor and control operation of the can decorator, and an automatic label creator including a memory, the automatic label creator configured to receive an input including at least the label specification, create a label, determine a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specification and data associated with a previously applied label, and transmit at least the label and the value for image registration to the control station, wherein the control system adjusts at least the plurality of printing plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations based at least in part on the label and the value for image registration, and wherein, after adjustment, the plurality of printing plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print a label on an undecorated can based at least in part on the label and the value.

[0014] Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept provides an automatic label creator for use in can decoration by a can decorator. The can decorator has at least a plurality of printing plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, each printing plate cylinder being associated with a separate inking station, the can decorator being communicatively coupled to a control station, the control station including a control system configured to control operation of the can decorator communicatively coupled to the control station. The automatic label creator includes an input device configured to receive an input including at least a label specification obtained from a supplier, a display configured to display real-time information including at least the label specification, and an automatic label creator controller including a memory, the automatic label creator configured to receive an input including at least the label specification, create a label, determine a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specification and data associated with a previously applied label, and transmit at least the label and the value for image registration to the control station, wherein the control system adjusts at least the plurality of printing plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations based at least in part on the label and the value for image registration, and wherein, after adjustment, the plurality of printing plate cylinders and inking stations print a label on an undecorated can based at least in part on the label and the value.

[0015] Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept provides a method for automatically creating labels. The method includes: receiving input including at least label specifications by an automatic label creator; creating a label by the automatic label creator; determining, at least in part, a value for image registration by the automatic label creator based on the label specifications and data associated with a previously applied label; transmitting at least the label and the image registration value by the automatic label creator to a control system of a control station communicatively connected to and configured to control the operation of the can decorating machine, the can decorating machine including at least a plurality of printing cylinders and a plurality of inking stations; adjusting at least the plurality of printing cylinders and the inking stations by the control system at least in part based on the label and the image registration value; and printing the label onto an undecorated can by the plurality of printing cylinders and the inking stations at least in part based on the label and the value. Attached Figure Description

[0016] A full understanding of the invention can be obtained from the following description of preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 This is an example of a can decorating machine;

[0018] Figure 2 An exemplary can decorating system including an automatic label creator, provided as a non-limiting exemplary embodiment based on the disclosed concepts;

[0019] Figure 3 An exemplary can decorating system comprising an automated label creator according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concepts;

[0020] Figure 4 An exemplary control station comprising an automatic label creator according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concepts;

[0021] Figure 5 For example labels; and

[0022] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method for automatically creating labels based on a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concepts. Detailed Implementation

[0023] It will be appreciated that the specific elements shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept, provided as non-limiting examples for illustrative purposes only. Therefore, specific dimensions, orientations, components, number of parts used, embodiment configurations, and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosed concept.

[0024] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example, clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, upward, downward, and derivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and are not limiting unless specifically so stated.

[0025] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0026] As used herein, "configured to", arranged to", "made to", or variations thereof means that an element, or a combination of elements, is constructed or otherwise created and / or designed to carry out the function(s) recited by the term in the claims. As used herein, "configured to", "arranged to", "made to", or variations thereof refers to a structure where the identified component is shaped, sized, positioned, coupled, and / or configured to perform the identified function. For example, a member configured to move is movably coupled to another element and includes an element that causes the member to move, or the member is otherwise configured to move in response to other elements or components. As such, "configured to", "arranged to", "made to", or variations thereof recite a structure rather than a function. In addition, as used herein, "configured to", "arranged to", "made to", or variations thereof means that an identified element is intended and designed to perform an identified function. Thus, an element is not "configured to", "arranged to", "made to", or variations thereof, merely because it has the ability to perform the identified function on some occasion in manners that are not specifically intended and which fall within the scope of its designated functionality.

[0027] As used herein, "associated with" means that the elements are part of the same assembly and / or operate together or interact / act upon each other in some manner. For example, a car has four tires and four hubcaps. While all elements are coupled as part of the car, it is understood that each hubcap is "associated with" a particular tire.

[0028] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are "coupled" shall mean that the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly, such that forces may be transferred between or among such parts or components. As used herein, "directly coupled" means that two elements are directly in contact with each other. As used herein, "fixedly coupled" or "fixed" means that two components are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. As used herein, "adjustably fixed" means that two components are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant overall orientation or position relative to each other, while being able to move within a limited range or about a single axis. For example, a door handle is "adjustably fixed" to a door because the handle is turnable, but generally the handle is maintained in a single position relative to the door. Also, a refill (nib and ink reservoir) in a retractable pen is "adjustably fixed" relative to the housing because the refill moves between a retracted position and an extended position, but generally maintains its orientation relative to the housing. Thus, when two elements are coupled, all portions of the elements are coupled. However, a statement that a particular portion of a first element is coupled to a second element (e.g., the first end of a shaft is coupled to a first wheel) means that the particular portion of the first element is disposed closer to the second element than are other portions of the first element. Moreover, an object that is held in place by gravity alone over another object is not "coupled" to the lower object unless the upper object is otherwise substantially maintained in place by other means. That is, for example, a book on a desk is not coupled to the desk, but a book glued to the desk is coupled to the desk.

[0029] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are "engaged" with each other means that the elements directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components exert force or bias on each other. Also, as used herein with respect to moving components, a moving component can "engage" another element during movement from one position to another position, and / or the moving component can "engage" another element once in the position. Thus, it should be understood that the statements "when element A moves to a first position of element A, element A engages element B" and "when element A is in a first position of element A, element A engages element B" are equivalent statements and mean that element A engages element B when moving to the first position of element A and / or element A engages element B when in the first position of element A.

[0030] As used herein, "corresponding" means that two structural components are sized and shaped to resemble one another and can be coupled with minimal amount of friction. Thus, an opening of a "corresponding" member is sized to be slightly larger than the member so that the member can pass through the opening with minimal amount of friction. If two components "snugly" fit together, the definition is modified. In that case, the difference between the sizes of the components is even less so that the amount of friction is increased. If the element defining the opening and / or the component inserted into the opening is made of a deformable or compressible material, the opening can even be slightly smaller than the component inserted into the opening. As to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more "corresponding" surfaces, shapes, or lines generally have the same size, shape, and profile.

[0031] As used herein, the term "a number" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality). That is, for example, the phrase "a number of elements" can refer to one element or to a plurality of elements. It is specifically noted that the term "a number of [X]" includes a single [X].

[0032] As used herein, "about" in a phrase such as "disposed about [an element, point, or axis]" or "extending about [an element, point, or axis]" or "about [X] degrees about [an element, point, or axis]" means encircles, extends around, or measures around, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. When used in reference to a measured value, or in a similar manner, "about" means "approximately," as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0033] As used herein, an "elongate" element per se includes a longitudinal axis and / or a longitudinal line extending along an elongation direction.

[0034] As used herein, "generally" means "in a general manner" as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in relation to the term being modified.

[0035] As used herein, "substantially" means "a large portion of" as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in relation to the term being modified.

[0036] As used herein, "at" means "on or near" as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in relation to the term being modified.

[0037] Exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept provide an automated label creator and method for use in can manufacturing. Upon receiving input containing label specifications obtained from a customer (e.g., but not limited to, a supplier), the automated label creator automatically creates a label. After creating the label, the automated label creator determines a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specifications and data associated with previous labels applied by a can decorator and / or other can decorator. The automated label creator then automatically transmits the label and the value for image registration to a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator, the control station containing a control system configured to monitor and control operation of the can decorator. Upon receiving the label and the value, the control system adjusts one or more can decorator components based at least in part on the label and the value for image registration. The can decorator (e.g., but not limited to, a plurality of printing cylinders and a plurality of inking stations) prints the label on an unadorned can 16. By automatically creating the label and adjusting the can decorator based on the label and the value for image registration, the automated label creator eliminates the repetitive manual adjustments and guesswork required by conventional label creation systems and methods, greatly speeding up the label creation and changeover process. By utilizing machine learning based on a large amount of data associated with previously applied labels, the automated label creator further improves the accuracy of the label and enables the can decorator to adjust its components to correct for position and parameters on the first try.

[0038] Figure 2 A can decorator system 100 according to non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept is illustrated. The can decorator system 100 contains a can decorator 10 and a control station 200, which contains an automated label creator 1. The control station 100 is communicatively coupled to the can decorator 10 in a wired or wireless connection and contains a control system 215 (as shown in Figure 4 FIG. 2) configured to monitor and control operation of the can decorator 10. The control station 200 can be, for example, but not limited to, a computer, workstation, etc. disposed near the can decorator 10. Reference is made to Figure 4 The control station 200 is further discussed. While Figure 2 and Figure 4 The automated label creator 1 disposed within the control station 200 is illustrated, but it is understood that the automated label creator can be a standalone device, such as, but not limited to, a PC or workstation separately configured to automatically create labels, without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept. In examples containing a standalone automated label creator, the input device and display can be contained in the automated label creator. In some examples, as Figure 3As shown, control station 200 can be located in main control room 240, which controls the entire can manufacturing process. In these examples, control station 200 can be connected to can decorating machine control station 220, which controls the operation of can decorating machine 10, and automatic label creator 1, located in control station 200, is communicatively connected to can decorating machine control station 220 and transmits signals to can decorating machine control station 220 containing at least labels and values ​​for image registration. In some examples, a controller (not shown) with the same functions as control station 200 can be located within can decorating machine 10. In these examples, automatic label creator 1 can be located within the controller.

[0039] Automatic label creator 1 is configured to receive label specifications, create labels, determine values ​​for image registration based at least in part on the label specifications and data associated with previously applied labels, and transmit at least the labels and said values ​​to control station 200. Upon receiving at least the labels and said values, control station 200 (i.e., as...) Figure 4 The control system 215 shown causes the can decorating machine 10 to adjust its printing components, at least in part, based on the label and the value, and to print the label onto an undecorated can 16. The label specifications are obtained from a customer (e.g., but not limited to a canned product supplier) and may include at least an image to be printed on the can 16, including, for example, but not limited to, an image of the desired finished label, nutritional information, regulatory disclosures, etc. When a new label specification is received from the supplier, the user (e.g., but not limited to the can decorating machine operator) can stop the can decorating machine 10 via control station 200 and input (e.g., but not limited to, load) the label specifications to the automatic label creator 1 via input device 205.

[0040] Upon receiving the label specifications, the automatic label creator 1 is configured to create a label to be printed on the undecorated can 16. Figure 5 The examples illustrate exemplary labels. For instance... Figure 5 As shown, the label may contain, for example, but not limited to, color images, such as logos, nutritional information, promotional details, and / or regulatory information. In some examples, the label may contain multiple labels, each corresponding to a printing cylinder and its associated inking station.

[0041] After creating the label, the automatic label creator 1 is configured to determine values for image registration based on the label. Image registration includes, for example but not limited to, printing plate cylinder registration and ink registration. Printing plate cylinder registration includes, for example but not limited to, vertical registration of a registration vertical (i.e. top or bottom) setting value, circumferential registration of a registration circumferential (i.e. right or left) setting value, and printing plate pressure registration of a registration printing plate pressure point. The printing plate cylinder registration is performed for each printing plate cylinder 31. For the printing plate cylinder registration, the automatic label creator 1 is further configured to determine, for each printing plate cylinder, setting values including a vertical setting value, a circumferential setting value, and a printing plate pressure point. Ink registration includes an ink recipe which indicates, for example but not limited to, how much base and pigment should be mixed to obtain a desired color, and ink registration includes color registration parameters such as, for example but not limited to, ink amount, density, hue, color step gradient, etc. For the ink registration, the automatic label creator 1 is further configured to generate, for each inking station 32, an ink recipe including at least color parameters, and to set ink key setting values for the corresponding inking station 32.

[0042] The data associated with the previously applied label includes at least corresponding registration information and corresponding can decorator information. The corresponding registration information includes, for example but not limited to, previous setting values and ink recipes optimized for the previously applied label. The corresponding can decorator information includes at least can decorator conditions (such as, for example but not limited to, usage, age, run history, etc.) and its environmental information (such as, for example but not limited to, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, etc.). For example, the automatic label creator 1 automatically and continuously collects data. The data can include at least data of the can decorator 10 and a plurality (such as, for example but not limited to, thousands) of cans 16 printed by the can decorator 10, can decorator conditions, and its environmental information. Further, the automatic label creator 1 continuously updates the data and trains based on the updated data at least partially via built-in machine learning algorithms. In some examples, the data can also include data associated with previously applied labels, corresponding registration information, and corresponding can decorator information of can decorators having the same or different specifications as the can decorator 10 and operating at different locations (domestic and / or foreign). In these examples, the automatic label creator 1 can be trained based on a large amount of data collected globally, and optimize values for image registration based on the large amount of data, thereby significantly improving accuracy of at least the determined values, which is higher than when the automatic label creator 1 is trained based on local data only or when traditional label creation systems and methods that require manual adjustment based on guesswork are used.

[0043] After determining the values for image register, the automatic label creator 1 transmits at least the label and the values to the control station 200. In examples using a can decorator with a built-in controller, the automatic label creator 1 transmits a signal to the controller. The control system 215 then adjusts the can decorator or its printing components based at least in part on the label and the values. The printing components can include, for example and without limitation, a plurality of printing plate cylinders 31 and a plurality of inking stations 32, each printing plate cylinder 31 being associated with a separate inking station 32. Upon receiving the label and the values for image register, the control system 215 adjusts at least the printing plate cylinders 31 and the inking stations 32 based at least in part on the label and the values. That is, the control system 215 moves the printing plate cylinders 31 to the set points specified by the values and sets the ink fountain components based on the ink formula for the inking stations 32. After the adjustments, the plurality of printing plate cylinders 31 and the plurality of inking stations 32 print the label on the unadorned can 16. In some examples, the control system 215 can include an automatic register device (not shown) and / or an automatic color register device (such as, but not limited to, an automatic ink fountain). In these examples, the automatic label creator 1, along with the automatic register device and / or the automatic ink fountain, can significantly speed up the label creation and change process compared to using traditional label creation and change systems and methods.

[0044] In some examples, the automatic label creator 1 is further configured to determine whether the label is printed on the can 16 as specified by at least one of the label and the label specification. For such determination, the automatic label creator 1 can obtain 3D images from a camera or image sensor (not shown) disposed within, at, or near the can decorator 10, check data for one or more cans 16 that were initially printed, and determine whether the label on the one or more cans 16 that were initially printed is rendered as specified by at least one of the label or the label specification. In response to determining that the label has not been printed as specified, the automatic label creator 1 determines whether the label and / or values for image registration need to be modified or whether the can decorator 10 needs to be further adjusted. For example, if the label contains an error (e.g., incorrect color density), the automatic label creator 1 determines that the label and / or values for image registration need to be modified. In such examples, the automatic label creator 1 is further configured to modify the label and / or values for image registration and transmit the modified label and / or modified values to the control station 200. The control system 215 then adjusts one or more of the plate cylinders 31 and the inking stations 32 based at least in part on the modified label and / or modified values. If the automatic label creator 1 determines that the can decorator 10 needs to be further adjusted (e.g., but not limited to, due to a component in the inking station 32 being damaged), but does not need to adjust the label, the automatic label creator 1 is further configured to shut down the can decorator 10 and send an alert to at least one of the control station 200 or a can decorator operator. The alert can contain instructions for adjusting the can decorator 10 (e.g., but not limited to, replacing the damaged component). The control system 215 can adjust the can decorator 10, or a user can manually adjust the can decorator 10 based at least in part on the instructions. After adjusting the can decorator 10, the control system 215 starts the can decorator 10, and the plurality of plate cylinders 31 and the plurality of inking stations 32 print the label on an unadorned can 16 based at least in part on the label.

[0045] Accordingly, the automatic label creator 1 according to the disclosed concept automatically creates labels and determines values for image registration without having to make iterative manual adjustments based on guesswork as with conventional label creation. Such automatic label creation eliminates human error associated with manual adjustments and guesswork, thereby significantly reducing can manufacturing time and cost, and improving accuracy of label creation. Further, by utilizing machine learning techniques based on a large amount of data collected globally, and taking into account all relevant conditions, parameters, issues, and / or results related to a particular can decorator, the automatic label creator 1 further improves accuracy of label creation. Additionally, by automatically modifying labels and / or values for image registration based on real-time data feedback from relevant sensors, the automatic label creator 1 further improves accuracy of label creation. As a result of the improved accuracy, the automatic label creator 1 allows, for example, but not limited to, plate cylinders 31 and inking stations 32 to be adjusted and / or moved to the correct position on the first try.

[0046] Figure 4 An example illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary control station 200 of the automatic label creator 1 including non-limiting exemplary embodiments according to the disclosed concept. The control station 200 is communicatively coupled to the can decorator 10. The control station 200 can be a PC, workstation, or laptop, and includes an input device 205, a display 210, a control system 215, a memory 220, and the automatic label creator 1. The input device 205 can be, for example, but not limited to, a keyboard, touch screen, USB port, etc. The display 210 can be, for example, but not limited to, an LCD, OLED, etc. A user can use the input device 205 to provide input to the automatic label creator 1. The control system 215 is configured to monitor and control operation of various components of the can decorator 10. The control system 215 can include a processor, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, microcontroller, or some other suitable processing device. The memory 220 can be any one or more of a variety of types of internal and / or external storage media such as, but not limited to, RAM, ROM, one or more EPROMs, one or more EEPROMs, FLASH, etc., which provide storage registers (i.e., machine-readable media) for data storage in the form of, for example, internal storage areas of a computer, and can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory connected to the memory. The memory 220 stores a number of routines, instructions, or codes that are executable by the control system 215.

[0047] The automatic label creator 1 can include its own processor 3 and memory 5. The processor can be, for example and without limitation, a microprocessor, microcontroller, or some other suitable processing device or circuit. The memory 5 can be any one or more of a variety of types of internal and / or external storage media such as, for example and without limitation, RAM, ROM, one or more EPROMs, one or more EEPROMs, FLASH, etc., which provide storage registers for data storage in the form of, for example, a computer's internal storage area (i.e., machine-readable medium), and can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory 5 can store instructions 6 for at least automatically creating labels. The memory 5 can also store data 7 associated with previously applied labels. The data 7 can include corresponding register information and corresponding can decorator information. For example, the data 7 can include at least data of the can decorator 10 and data of a plurality (e.g., but not limited to, thousands) of cans 16 printed by the can decorator 10 based on previously applied labels, can decorator conditions, and its environmental information. The data 7 can also include similar information associated with can decorators having the same or different specifications as the can decorator 10 and operating at different locations (domestic and / or foreign). The automatic label creator 1 continuously and automatically updates the data 7. The memory 5 can also include a machine learning algorithm 8 that is trained based on the data 7 and executes the instructions 6 at least partially based on the training. The automatic label creator 1 further outputs signals to enable the display 210 to display real-time information such as, for example and without limitation, label specifications being entered, new labels being created, values being determined, ink recipes being generated, data being collected including cans being printed, etc. The automatic label creator 1 also transmits signals including labels, values for image register, and ink recipes to the control station 200. In some examples, the automatic label creator 1 can be included within the control system 215 of the control station 200.

[0048] Figure 5 An example label 9 created by the automatic label creator 1 according to non-limiting example embodiments of the disclosed concept is illustrated by Figures 2 to 4 The label 9 can include, for example and without limitation, images as specified in a label specification from a supplier, nutritional ingredients, regulatory notice information, container dimensions, etc. The label 9 can be digitally printed onto an un-decorated can via, for example and without limitation, a film.

[0049] Figure 6 A flowchart of a method 6000 for automatically creating a recipe label for use in a can decorator system according to non-limiting example embodiments of the disclosed concept. The can decorator system is similar to the can decorator system 100, 100' as described with reference to Figures 2 to 3 The method 6000 can be performed by the automatic label creator 1, the can decorator 10, and / or components thereof.

[0050] At 6010, the automatic label creator receives input containing at least label specifications.

[0051] At 6020, the automatic label creator creates a label.

[0052] At 6030, the automatic label creator determines a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specifications and data associated with a previously applied label.

[0053] At 6040, the automatic label creator transmits at least the label and the value for image registration to a control station of a can decorator. The control station is communicatively coupled to the can decorator and receives at least the label and the value. The control station contains a control system configured to monitor and control operation of the can decorator.

[0054] At 6050, the control system of the control station adjusts at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations based at least in part on the label and the value for image registration. After adjustment, the control system initiates the can decorator. In some examples, based on the label and the value for image registration from the automatic label creator, adjustments to the can decorator components can be made manually (multiple adjustments).

[0055] At 6060, the plurality of plate cylinders and inking stations print the label on an unadorned can based at least in part on the label and the value.

[0056] While specific embodiments of the application have been described above, it will be appreciated that various modifications and substitutions can be made to these details by those skilled in the art in view of the overall teachings of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the concepts disclosed, which is to be given the full breadth of the appended claims, and any and all equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A can decoration system, comprising: A can decorating machine, the can decorating machine comprising at least a plurality of printing plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, each printing plate cylinder being associated with a separate inking station; as well as The control station is communicatively connected to the control station of the can decorating machine, the control station comprising: An input device configured to receive input that includes at least a tag specification; A display configured to display real-time information containing at least the label specifications; A control system configured to monitor and control the operation of the tank decorating machine; and An automatic label creator including a memory is configured to receive input containing at least the label specifications, create a label, determine a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specifications and data associated with a previously applied label, and transmit at least the label and the value for image registration to the control station, wherein the control system adjusts at least the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations based at least in part on the label and the value for image registration, and wherein, after adjustment, the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print a label on an undecorated can based at least in part on the label and the value.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, To determine the values ​​used for image registration, the automatic label creator is further configured to determine set values ​​for each printing cylinder and each inking station, and to generate an ink formula for each inking station that includes at least color parameters.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The memory contains machine learning algorithms, and the automatic label creator automatically and continuously collects data, updates data, and is trained at least in part based on the updated data. The data associated with previously applied labels includes at least the corresponding registration information and the corresponding can decoration machine information.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein, The corresponding registration information includes at least the previously set values ​​and ink formula optimized for the previously applied label, and the corresponding can decorator information includes at least the can decorator status and its environmental information, the can decorator status including at least the usage, years of use and operating history of the can decorator, and the environmental information including at least the ambient temperature and ambient humidity.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein, The data further includes data associated with previously applied labels, which includes at least the corresponding registration information and corresponding can decorating machine information for can decorating machines operating in different locations domestically and / or internationally.

6. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The settings include the vertical setting, circumferential setting, and plate pressure point of the corresponding printing cylinder, as well as the ink key setting for the corresponding inking station.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The automatic label creator is further configured to determine whether the label is printed on the undecorated can as specified by at least one of the label and label specifications.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, In order to determine whether the label is printed on the undecorated can as specified, the automatic label creator is further configured to determine whether the applied label is presented on one or more cans that were originally printed as specified by at least one of the label and label specifications.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, In response to determining that the applied label is not present on one or more initially printed cans, the automatic label creator is further configured to determine whether the label and / or the value needs adjustment or whether the can decorating machine needs adjustment.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein, In response to determining that adjustment of the automatic label and / or the value is required, the automatic label creator is further configured to modify the label and / or the value and transmit the modified label and / or the modified value to the control station, wherein the control system adjusts one or more printing cylinders and inking stations at least in part based on the modified label and / or the modified value, and wherein the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print labels on undecorated cans at least in part based on the modified label and / or the modified value.

11. The system according to claim 9, wherein, In response to determining that adjustment of the can decorating machine is required, the automatic label creator is further configured to shut down the can decorating machine and send an alarm to the can decorating machine operator, the alarm containing instructions for adjusting the can decorating machine, wherein the control system adjusts the can decorating machine at least in part based on the instructions, and after adjusting the can decorating machine, starts the can decorating machine, and wherein the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print the label on the undecorated can at least in part based on the label.

12. An automatic label creator for can decoration performed by a can decorating machine, the can decorating machine having at least a plurality of printing cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, each printing cylinder being associated with a separate inking station, the can decorating machine being communicatively connected to a control station, the control station including a control system configured to control the operation of the can decorating machine communicatively connected to the control station, the automatic label creator comprising: An input device configured to receive input that includes at least a label specification obtained from a supplier; A display configured to display real-time information containing at least the label specifications; as well as An automatic label creator controller including a memory is configured to receive input containing at least the label specifications, create a label, determine a value for image registration based at least in part on the label specifications and data associated with a previously applied label, and transmit at least the label and the value for image registration to the control station, wherein the control system adjusts at least the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations based at least in part on the label and the value for image registration, and wherein, after adjustment, the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print a label on an undecorated can based at least in part on the label and the value.

13. A method for automatically creating tags, comprising: The automatic label creator receives input containing at least the label specifications. Tags are created by the automatic tag creator; The automatic label creator determines the values ​​for image registration based at least in part on the label specifications and data associated with previously applied labels; The automatic label creator transmits at least the label and the value for image registration to a control station communicatively connected to the can decorating machine. The control station includes a control system configured to control the operation of the can decorating machine, which includes at least a plurality of printing cylinders and a plurality of inking stations. The control system adjusts at least the plurality of printing plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations based at least in part on the label and the value used for image registration; as well as The label is printed on an undecorated can by the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations, based at least in part on the label and the value.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, Determining the values ​​used for image registration includes: Determine the settings for each printing cylinder and each inking station; and Generate an ink formula that includes at least color parameters for each inking station.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The automatic tag creator includes a memory incorporating machine learning algorithms, and the method further includes: The automatic label creator automatically and continuously collects data associated with previously applied labels, the data including at least the corresponding registration information and the corresponding can decorating machine information; The data is updated by the automatic tag creator; and The automatic label creator is trained, at least in part, based on the updated data.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The corresponding registration information includes at least the previously set values ​​and ink formula optimized for the previously applied label, and the corresponding can decorator information includes at least the can decorator status and its environmental information, the can decorator status including at least the usage, years of use and operating history of the can decorator, and the environmental information including at least the ambient temperature and ambient humidity.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The data also includes data associated with previously applied labels, which includes at least the corresponding registration information and corresponding can decorating machine information for can decorating machines operating in different locations domestically and / or internationally.

18. The method of claim 13, further comprising: The automatic label creator determines whether the label is printed on an undecorated can as specified by at least one of the label and the label specifications; as well as In response to determining that the label was not printed on an undecorated can as specified by at least one of the label and the label specifications, the automatic label creator determines whether the label and / or the value needs to be adjusted or whether the can decorating machine needs to be adjusted.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: In response to determining that adjustment of the label and / or the value is required, the automatic label creator modifies the label and / or the value; The automatic label creator transmits the modified labels and / or modified values ​​to the control station; The control system adjusts one or more printing cylinders and inking stations based at least in part on the modified label and / or the modified value; The tank decoration machine is started by the control system; as well as Printing is performed by one or more adjusted printing cylinders and inking stations, based at least in part on the modified label and / or modified values.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising: In response to the determination that adjustment of the can decorating machine is required, the automatic label creator shuts down the can decorating machine. The automatic label creator sends an alarm to the control system, the alarm containing instructions for adjusting the can decorating machine; The control system adjusts the can decorating machine at least in part based on the instructions; The control system starts the can decoration machine; and The label is printed onto an undecorated can by the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations.

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