Modular labeling machine and labeling method

Abstract

This invention provides a modular labeling machine and labeling method, relating to the field of labeling machine technology. The modular labeling machine includes a main frame, a rotating device, a bottle inlet device, a bottle outlet device, a transition device, and functional labeling stations. A connecting device is provided on the main frame. The rotating device, bottle inlet device, bottle outlet device, and transition device are all located on the main frame. The transition device connects the bottle inlet device, bottle outlet device, and rotating device. The rotating device drives the packaging bottle through the functional labeling stations for labeling. The functional labeling stations are detachably connected to the main frame via the connecting device. The functional labeling stations include at least one of self-adhesive labeling stations and hot melt adhesive labeling stations. The modular labeling machine and labeling method of this invention can change the type of functional labeling station according to different production conditions, resulting in better adaptability and improved working efficiency of the labeling machine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of labeling machine technology, and more particularly to a modular labeling machine and labeling method. Background Technology

[0002] A labeling machine is an automated device that presses labels onto products to complete the adhesion. Conventional labeling machines can usually only label one type of label. If other types of labels or combination labeling are to be performed, multiple machines are required to operate, which is costly and has low production efficiency.

[0003] To address the aforementioned issues, some modular labeling machines have emerged. For example, Chinese patent publication number CN109533531A discloses a lifting mechanism, a hot melt adhesive labeling station trolley, and a modular labeling machine. The modular labeling machine includes a frame, a bottle holder device, a hot melt adhesive labeling station trolley, and two self-adhesive labeling station trolleys. The lifting mechanism includes a lifting base plate, a lifting assembly, a transmission belt, and a drive mechanism. The lifting assembly includes three or more lifting units located at the bottom of the lifting base plate. Each lifting unit includes a fixed base, a hollow rotating shaft, a lead screw, and a toothed pulley. While these technical solutions allow for switching between different modes, there is still significant room for improvement in overall work efficiency.

[0004] Therefore, how to improve the working efficiency of labeling machines is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The primary objective of this invention is to provide a modular labeling machine that can change the type of functional labeling station according to different production conditions, thus improving adaptability and increasing the working efficiency of the labeling machine.

[0006] The second objective of this invention is to provide a labeling method that can improve the working efficiency of a labeling machine.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: In the first aspect, a modular labeling machine is provided, including a main frame, a rotating device, a bottle inlet device, a bottle outlet device, a transition device, and a functional labeling station; The main frame is equipped with a connecting device. The rotating device, the bottle inlet device, the bottle outlet device, and the transition device are all located on the main frame. The transition device is used to connect the bottle inlet device, the bottle outlet device, and the rotating device. The rotating device is used to drive the packaging bottle through the functional labeling station for labeling. The functional labeling station is detachably connected to the main frame through the connecting device. The functional labeling station includes at least one of a self-adhesive labeling station and a hot melt adhesive labeling station.

[0008] The above technical solution encapsulates the labeling function unit into an independent functional labeling station module, which is then installed on the main frame via a connecting device. This architecture allows the equipment to move beyond a single labeling process, enabling users to quickly switch between hot melt adhesive labeling stations and self-adhesive labeling stations according to production needs.

[0009] Furthermore, when the labeling process needs to be changed, operators do not need to make complex mechanical modifications or rewiring to the whole machine. They only need to remove the old labeling station from the main frame and install the corresponding new labeling station. This plug-and-play design greatly shortens the downtime for equipment changeover and debugging, and improves the flexibility and comprehensive utilization of the production line.

[0010] Optionally, the transition device includes a transition support frame, a transition plate, and two transition components. The transition plate is disposed on the transition support frame, and the two transition components are disposed on the transition support frame and respectively on both sides of the transition plate. One of the transition components is used to connect the bottle inlet device, and the other transition component is used to connect the bottle outlet device. The transition assembly includes a transition motor and a transition guide wheel. The transition motor is mounted on the transition support frame and connected to the transition guide wheel to drive the transition guide wheel to rotate. The outer periphery of the transition guide wheel is provided with multiple transition grooves, which are arc-shaped. The side of the transition plate near the transition guide wheel is an arc surface.

[0011] Optionally, the bottle feeding device includes a bottle feeding frame, a bottle feeding conveyor belt, a bottle feeding screw, and a bottle feeding motor. The bottle feeding conveyor belt is disposed on the bottle feeding frame, the bottle feeding screw is rotatably connected to the bottle feeding frame, and the bottle feeding motor is connected to the bottle feeding screw to drive the bottle feeding screw to rotate and move the packaging bottle to the transition device.

[0012] Optionally, the self-adhesive labeling station includes a first workbench, a displacement device, a support base, a first unwinding device, a first buffer device, a labeling device, and a rewinding device; The displacement device is located on the first workbench and is connected to the support base. The first unwinding device, the first buffer device, the labeling device, and the winding device are all located on the support base.

[0013] Optionally, the first buffer device includes a buffer motor, a first buffer support frame, a first buffer roller, and a plurality of first buffer guide rollers. The first buffer support frame is disposed on the support base, the buffer motor is disposed on the first buffer support frame, the first buffer roller is rotatably connected to the first buffer support frame, the buffer motor is connected to the first buffer roller, and the plurality of first buffer guide rollers are disposed at intervals on the support base. The label is wound around the first buffer roller and the plurality of first buffer guide rollers.

[0014] Optionally, the self-adhesive labeling station further includes a first trolley, and the first workbench is located on the first trolley.

[0015] Optionally, the hot melt adhesive labeling station includes a second workbench and a second unwinding device, a label changing device, a second buffer device, a deviation correction device, a label cutting device, a label suction device, an adhesive supply device, an adhesive application device, a label smoothing device, and a driving device, all disposed on the second workbench. The number of the second unwinding devices is at least two, and both of the at least two second unwinding devices are used to place label rolls. The label rolls pass sequentially through the label changing device, the second buffer device, the deviation correction device, the label cutting device, and the label suction device.

[0016] Optionally, the hot melt adhesive marking station further includes a second trolley, with the second workbench located on the second trolley.

[0017] Optionally, the connection device includes a locking mechanism, a quick-connect pneumatic connector, and a circuit communication interface. The locking mechanism is used to lock the functional station to the main frame. The quick-connect pneumatic connector is used to connect the main pneumatic path of the main frame to the pneumatic component of the functional station. The circuit communication interface is used to transmit control signals to the functional station.

[0018] Secondly, a labeling method is provided, including the following steps: Based on the adhesive type requirements of the products to be labeled, select the corresponding functional labeling station, install it on the main frame, and connect it through the connecting device; The bottle feeding device transports unlabeled bottles to the transition device; The rotating device drives the packaging bottle to move and passes through the functional labeling station for labeling; The labeled bottles are driven by a rotating device to a transition device, which then transports the labeled bottles to the bottle outlet device.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the solution of the present invention has the following advantages: 1. In the modular labeling machine of the present invention, the labeling function unit is packaged into an independent functional labeling station module and installed on the main frame through a connecting device. This architecture makes the equipment no longer limited to a single labeling process. Users can quickly switch between hot melt adhesive labeling station and self-adhesive labeling station according to production needs.

[0020] Furthermore, when the labeling process needs to be changed, operators do not need to make complex mechanical modifications or rewiring to the whole machine. They only need to remove the old labeling station from the main frame and install the corresponding new labeling station. This plug-and-play design greatly shortens the downtime for equipment changeover and debugging, and improves the flexibility and comprehensive utilization of the production line.

[0021] 2. The labeling method of the present invention can improve the working efficiency of the labeling machine.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will become apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the modular labeling machine with self-adhesive labeling station and hot melt adhesive labeling station installed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the modular labeling machine with self-adhesive labeling station installed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a modular labeling machine with a hot melt adhesive labeling station installed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a top view of a modular labeling machine with self-adhesive labeling station and hot melt adhesive labeling station installed in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locking mechanism of a modular labeling machine in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a self-adhesive labeling station in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the self-adhesive label station removes the first workbench and the first trolley in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a hot melt adhesive marking station in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the label-changing device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second unwinding device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the label-cutting device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the label-absorbing device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the driving device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the marker-bearing device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the bottle inlet device, bottle outlet device, and transition device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the bottle inlet device in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the transition device in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Reference numerals: 1. Second workbench; 2. Second unwinding device; 21. Unwinding bracket; 22. Unwinding motor; 23. Unwinding reel; 24. Unwinding shaft; 25. Unwinding pressure plate; 26. Unwinding detection unit; 3. Second trolley; 4. Label changing device; 41. Label changing support frame; 42. Label changing assembly; 421. First label changing cylinder; 422. Second label changing cylinder; 423. Label changing cutter; 424. Label changing silicone plate; 425. Label changing suction plate; 426. Label changing suction tube; 43. Label changing support 5. Plate; 6. Second buffer device; 7. Correction device; 8. Label cutting device; 9. Label cutting support frame; 10. Label cutting motor; 11. Label cutting vent plate; 12. Label cutting drum; 13. Fixed cutter; 14. Moving cutter; 15. Label suction hole; 16. Label suction device; 17. Label suction shaft; 18. Label suction vent plate; 19. Label suction tube; 10. Label suction drum; 11. Label suction hole; 12. Glue supply device; 13. Glue application device; 14. Label smoothing device; 15. Label smoothing support frame; 16. Label smoothing... 113. Label baffle; 12. Label linear drive unit; 12. Drive device; 121. Drive motor; 122. Drive cylinder; 123. Drive support frame; 124. First drive guide roller; 125. Second drive guide roller; 126. Drive block; 13. Main frame; 14. Rotating device; 15. Bottle feeding device; 151. Bottle feeding frame; 152. Bottle feeding conveyor belt; 153. Bottle feeding screw; 154. Bottle feeding motor; 16. Bottle discharging device; 17. Transition device; 171. Transition support Frame; 172, Transition plate; 173, Transition assembly; 1731, Transition motor; 1732, Transition guide wheel; 1734, Transition groove; 18, First worktable; 19, Displacement device; 20, Support base; 30, First unwinding device; 40, First buffer device; 401, Buffer motor; 402, First buffer support frame; 403, First buffer roller; 404, First buffer guide roller; 50, Labeling device; 60, Rewinding device; 70, First trolley; 80, Locking mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0027] like Figures 1 to 17 As shown, the present invention provides a modular labeling machine, including a main frame 13, a rotating device 14, a bottle inlet device 15, a bottle outlet device 16, a transition device 17, and a functional labeling station.

[0028] For ease of explanation, in this embodiment, each orientation is as follows: Figure 1 As shown.

[0029] The main frame 13 is equipped with a connecting device. The rotating device 14, the bottle inlet device 15, the bottle outlet device 16 and the transition device 17 are all located on the main frame 13. The transition device 17 is used to connect the bottle inlet device 15, the bottle outlet device 16 and the rotating device 14. The rotating device 14 is used to drive the packaging bottle through the functional labeling station for labeling. The functional labeling station is detachably connected to the main frame 13 through the connecting device. The functional labeling station includes at least one of the self-adhesive labeling station and the hot melt adhesive labeling station.

[0030] Specifically, the labeling function unit is packaged into an independent functional labeling station module and installed on the main frame 13 through a connecting device. This architecture allows the equipment to no longer be limited to a single labeling process, and users can quickly switch between hot melt adhesive labeling station and self-adhesive labeling station according to production needs.

[0031] Furthermore, when the labeling process needs to be changed, operators do not need to make complex mechanical modifications or rewiring to the whole machine. They only need to remove the old labeling station from the main frame 13 and install the corresponding new labeling station. This plug-and-play design greatly shortens the downtime for equipment changeover and debugging, and improves the flexibility and comprehensive utilization of the production line.

[0032] Among them, the rotating device 14 is a turntable with a motor commonly used in this field, which will not be described in detail here.

[0033] In some embodiments, such as Figure 17 As shown, the transition device 17 includes a transition support frame 171, a transition plate 172, and two transition components 173. The transition plate 172 is disposed on the transition support frame 171, and the two transition components 173 are disposed on the transition support frame 171 and respectively on both sides of the transition plate 172. One transition component 173 is used to connect the bottle inlet device 15, and the other transition component 173 is used to connect the bottle outlet device 16.

[0034] Furthermore, the transition assembly 173 includes a transition motor 1731 and a transition guide wheel 1732. The transition motor 1731 is mounted on the transition support frame 171 and is connected to the transition guide wheel 1732 to drive the transition guide wheel 1732 to rotate. The outer periphery of the transition guide wheel 1732 is provided with a plurality of transition grooves 1734, which are arc-shaped. The side of the transition plate 172 near the transition guide wheel 1732 is an arc surface.

[0035] Specifically, transition components 173 connecting the bottle inlet device 15 and the bottle outlet device 16 are respectively provided on both sides of the transition plate 172. The transition motor 1731 drives the transition guide wheel 1732 to rotate. Multiple arc-shaped transition grooves 1734 provided on the outer periphery of the transition guide wheel 1732 form a continuous guide channel that conforms to the movement trajectory of the bottle with the arc surface of the side of the transition plate 172. When the bottle enters from the bottle inlet device 15 or is sent out from the rotating device 14, the arc-shaped transition grooves 1734 can accurately support the bottom or body of the bottle, and together with the arc-shaped side wall of the transition plate 172, form a soft and stable guiding constraint for the bottle. This design effectively eliminates the sharp corner interference and speed abrupt changes common in traditional straight transition sections, ensuring a smooth transition of the bottle during high-speed transmission, completely solving the problems of bottle jamming, bottle tipping, and bottle squeezing, and ensuring the continuous and smooth operation of the production line.

[0036] More specifically, the transition components 173 are centrally arranged on the transition support frame 171, resulting in a compact structure and high rigidity. The transition motor 1731 is directly connected to the guide wheel, resulting in a short transmission chain and rapid response. Furthermore, this modular transition design facilitates overall installation and disassembly. When it is necessary to change to bottles of different sizes, only the corresponding size transition guide wheel 1732 needs to be replaced and the position of the transition plate 172 adjusted, significantly shortening the changeover and commissioning time and improving the equipment's versatility and maintainability.

[0037] In some embodiments, the bottle dispensing device 16 is a bottle dispensing conveyor belt.

[0038] In some embodiments, such as Figure 16 As shown, the bottle feeding device 15 includes a bottle feeding frame 151, a bottle feeding conveyor belt 152, a bottle feeding screw 153, and a bottle feeding motor 154. The bottle feeding conveyor belt 152 is located on the bottle feeding frame 151. The bottle feeding screw 153 is rotatably connected to the bottle feeding frame 151. The bottle feeding motor 154 is connected to the bottle feeding screw 153 to drive the bottle feeding screw 153 to rotate and move the packaging bottle to the transition device 17.

[0039] Specifically, this invention employs an active bottle-separating structure where a bottle-feeding motor 154 drives a bottle-feeding screw 153 to rotate. The bottle-feeding screw 153 typically has helical grooves with a specific pitch. When disordered bottles are conveyed to the bottle-feeding screw 153 via the bottle-feeding conveyor belt 152, the rotation of the screw forces the bottles to separate one by one according to the set pitch. This structure can precisely control the spacing between bottles entering subsequent workstations, such as the transition device 17 or the labeling station, eliminating mutual compression or uneven spacing between bottles and providing a stable bottle flow basis for subsequent accurate labeling.

[0040] Furthermore, both the bottle infeed conveyor belt 152 and the bottle infeed screw 153 are mounted on a robust bottle infeed frame 151, ensuring the rigidity and shock resistance of the entire bottle infeed assembly. Meanwhile, the connection between the motor and the screw is simple and reliable, facilitating daily cleaning, lubrication, and maintenance. When it is necessary to change to bottles of different sizes, only the corresponding pitch bottle infeed screw 153 needs to be replaced, simplifying operation, greatly shortening changeover and debugging time, and improving equipment utilization and production efficiency.

[0041] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the self-adhesive labeling station includes a first workbench 18, a displacement device 19, a support base 20, a first unwinding device 30, a first buffer device 40, a labeling device 50, and a rewinding device 60. The displacement device 19 is located on the first workbench 18 and is connected to the support base 20. The first unwinding device 30, the first buffer device 40, the labeling device 50, and the rewinding device 60 are all located on the support base 20.

[0042] Specifically, the present invention provides a displacement device 19 in the self-adhesive labeling station. This device is connected to the support base 20 that carries the core functional components. Through the displacement device 19, such as a lifting mechanism and a translation mechanism, the support base 20, together with the first unwinding device 30, labeling device 50 and other core components on it, can be moved out or into the working position as a whole. When it is necessary to replace the label roll or perform cleaning and maintenance, the operator can pull out the entire support base 20 to obtain a large operating space, without having to work in the narrow gaps between the frames.

[0043] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first buffer device 40 includes a buffer motor 401, a first buffer support frame 402, a first buffer roller 403, and a plurality of first buffer guide rollers 404. The first buffer support frame 402 is disposed on the support base 20, the buffer motor 401 is disposed on the first buffer support frame 402, the first buffer roller 403 is rotatably connected to the first buffer support frame 402, the buffer motor 401 is connected to the first buffer roller 403, and the plurality of first buffer guide rollers 404 are spaced apart on the support base 20. The label is wound around the first buffer roller 403 and the plurality of first buffer guide rollers 404.

[0044] Specifically, the first buffer device 40 of this invention is equipped with a buffer motor 401 and a first buffer roller 403 driven by it. The buffer motor 401 directly controls the rotational speed and torque of the buffer roller, and can actively participate in tension control. When the speed of the winding device 60 or the labeling device 50 changes abruptly, the active roller can quickly accelerate or decelerate, forming a dynamic tension closed-loop control system in conjunction with multiple first buffer guide rollers 404. At the moment the self-adhesive label is cut, the material often has a slight tendency to spring back. The actively driven buffer roller can provide continuous traction force, and the S-shaped paper path formed by the guide rollers effectively suppresses this springback, ensuring that the label is positioned absolutely accurately during cutting and peeling, and avoiding label wrinkling or label offset caused by tension fluctuations.

[0045] In some embodiments, the self-adhesive label station further includes a first trolley 70, and a first workbench 18 is disposed on the first trolley 70.

[0046] Specifically, the first trolley 70 makes the entire self-adhesive labeling station an independent mobile workstation. When the production line needs to be reorganized, or when the labeling station needs to be stored offline as a spare part, it can be easily pushed away. After the trolley is positioned, the displacement device 19 is responsible for micron-level feeding and retraction to achieve precise docking or separation with the main frame 13.

[0047] Understandably, this design allows self-adhesive labeling stations to not only be used between different production lines, but also to be plug-and-play at their own workstation, greatly improving equipment turnover and site utilization.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first unwinding device 30, the labeling device 50, and the winding device 60 are all commonly used devices in the art, and will not be described in detail here.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the hot melt adhesive labeling station includes a second workbench 1 and a second unwinding device 2, a label changing device 4, a second buffer device 5, a deviation correction device 6, a label cutting device 7, a label suction device 8, an adhesive supply device 9, an adhesive coating device 10, a label smoothing device 11, and a driving device 12, all located on the second workbench 1. The number of second unwinding devices 2 is at least two, and both of the at least two second unwinding devices 2 are used to place label rolls. The label rolls pass through the label changing device 4, the second buffer device 5, the deviation correction device 6, the label cutting device 7, and the label suction device 8 in sequence.

[0050] Specifically, the label changing device 4 includes a label changing support frame 41 and two label changing components 42. The two label changing components 42 are symmetrically and spaced apart from each other on the label changing support frame 41. One label changing component 42 is used to absorb and cut the label roll released by one of the second unwinding devices 2, and the other label changing component 42 is used to absorb and cut the label roll released by the other second unwinding device 2.

[0051] In some embodiments, the hot melt adhesive labeling station further includes a second trolley 3, and a second workbench 1 is disposed on the second trolley 3.

[0052] Specifically, the second trolley 3 makes the entire hot melt adhesive labeling station an independent mobile workstation that can be easily moved when the production line needs to be reorganized or when the labeling station needs to be stored offline as a spare part.

[0053] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, the label changing device 4 also includes a label changing support plate 43. Two label changing components 42 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the label changing support plate 43 at intervals in the left and right directions. The label changing support plate 43 is provided with a cutter avoidance hole.

[0054] Furthermore, the label-changing assembly 42 includes a first label-changing cylinder 421, a second label-changing cylinder 422, a label-changing cutter 423, a label-changing silicone plate 424, a label-changing suction plate 425, and a label-changing suction tube 426. The first label-changing cylinder 421 is connected to the label-changing cutter 423 to drive the label-changing cutter 423 to extend into or away from the cutter clearance hole. The second label-changing cylinder 422 is connected to the label-changing suction plate 425 to drive the label-changing suction plate 425 to move closer to or away from the label-changing support plate 43. The label-changing silicone plate 424 is located on the side of the label-changing suction plate 425 close to the label-changing support plate 43. Both the label-changing silicone plate 424 and the label-changing suction plate 425 are provided with multiple label-changing adsorption holes. One end of the label-changing suction tube 426 is connected to the label-changing adsorption hole, and the other end of the label-changing suction tube 426 is connected to an external air source.

[0055] Furthermore, during operation, the label rolls from one of the second unwinding devices 2 can be used first. These label rolls pass through the label changing device 4 without contacting the label changing silicone plate 424, and then proceed to the second buffer device 5. When the label rolls in one of the second unwinding devices 2 are about to run out, a brief stop can be made. The second label changing cylinder 422 pushes the label changing suction plate 425 and the label changing silicone plate 424 closer to the label roll, and the external air source is activated. The label changing suction tube 426 generates negative pressure, causing the label roll to adhere to the label changing silicone plate 424, thus fixing the label roll. The first label changing cylinder 421 pushes the label changing cutter 423 closer to the label changing support plate 43, and, in conjunction with the cutter clearance hole, cuts the label roll released by one of the second unwinding devices 2. Then, the label roll from the other second unwinding device 2 is pasted to the corresponding area, and the machine is restarted. The entire process does not require a long downtime to complete the label roll switching. Compared with directly replacing and placing new label rolls, this greatly reduces downtime and increases work efficiency.

[0056] The label-replacement suction plate 425 is equipped with a label-replacement silicone plate 424, which utilizes the excellent flexibility and coefficient of friction of silicone material. When the label-replacement suction plate 425 approaches the label, the silicone plate can act as a buffer medium, which can not only adhere tightly to the label surface to ensure the adsorption effect, but also effectively prevent rigid contact from causing indentations or damage to the label surface, thereby improving the appearance quality of the labeling.

[0057] Furthermore, by creating multiple label-changing adsorption holes on both the label-changing silicone plate 424 and the label-changing suction plate 425, and connecting them to an external air source, a multi-point vacuum adsorption network is formed. Compared to single-point adsorption, this design provides greater adsorption force and a more uniform negative pressure distribution. At the moment the label-changing cutter 423 cuts the label, the strong suction ensures that the label strip is firmly fixed, preventing the label strip from retracting or sagging due to tension release, thus ensuring smooth and accurate feeding for the next cycle.

[0058] The cutting clearance hole on the label changing support plate 43 cooperates with the label changing cutter 423 driven by the first label changing cylinder 421 to form a precision shearing mechanism. The first label changing cylinder 421 drives the label changing cutter 423 to directly extend into the cutting clearance hole for cutting. The stroke is short and the force is large, which can ensure that the label tape has a flat cut without burrs and avoid subsequent material jamming failures caused by incomplete cutting.

[0059] In some embodiments, the second buffer device 5 includes a second buffer support frame and a plurality of second buffer guide rollers. The second buffer support frame is disposed on the second worktable 1, and the plurality of second buffer guide rollers are disposed at intervals on the second buffer support frame. The label is wound around the plurality of second buffer guide rollers.

[0060] Specifically, during the switching between the two second unwinding devices 2, or during the start-up, shutdown, and speed change of the labeling machine, the label tape is prone to instantaneous tension fluctuations, such as sudden tightening or loosening. This invention addresses this by setting multiple spaced second buffer guide rollers, allowing the label roll to wind in an S-shape or wave shape. This structure utilizes the physical allowance formed between the second buffer guide rollers, acting as a tension buffer. When the label roll is instantly tightened, the label roll between the second buffer guide rollers is straightened to compensate for the length; when the label roll loosens, the excess length is stored between the second buffer guide rollers. This adaptive adjustment mechanism effectively eliminates tension fluctuations and prevents label tape breakage or loosening accumulation.

[0061] In some embodiments, the correction device 6 is a correction machine commonly used in the art, so it will not be described in detail.

[0062] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11As shown, the label cutting device 7 includes a label cutting support frame 71, a label cutting motor 72, a label cutting shaft, a label cutting vent plate 73, a label cutting suction tube, a label cutting drum 74, a fixed cutting blade 75, and a movable cutting blade 76. The label cutting support frame 71 is mounted on the second workbench 1. The label cutting motor 72 and the label cutting vent plate 73 are both mounted on the label cutting support frame 71. The label cutting vent plate 73 has a label cutting clearance channel in the middle. One end of the label cutting shaft is connected to the label cutting motor 72, and the other end of the label cutting shaft passes through the label cutting clearance channel. The channel is connected to the label cutting drum 74. Both the label venting plate 73 and the label cutting drum 74 have interconnected label suction channels. The outer wall of the label cutting drum 74 has multiple label suction holes 77 that are connected to the label suction channels. One end of the label suction tube is connected to the label venting plate 73, and the other end of the label suction tube is connected to an external air source. The movable cutter 76 is located on the label cutting drum 74 and protrudes from the outer wall of the label cutting drum 74. The fixed cutter 75 is located on the label support frame 71.

[0063] Specifically, this invention abandons the traditional reciprocating cutter structure and adopts a cutting drum 74 driven to rotate by a cutting motor 72, in conjunction with a movable cutter 76 protruding from the outer wall of the drum and a fixed cutter 75 fixed on the support frame. This rotary cutting method is similar to the principle of scissors, and compared with vertical punching cutting, its cutting process is smoother and has less resistance. The movable cutter 76 rotates at high speed with the drum and cooperates with the fixed cutter 75 to ensure that the label tape is cleanly cut with a smooth, burr-free cut and precise length control, greatly improving the repeatability and positioning accuracy of the label cutting.

[0064] Furthermore, by constructing a connected label-cutting suction channel inside the label-cutting shaft, label-cutting vent plate 73, and label-cutting drum 74, and by setting suction holes on the outer wall of the label-cutting drum 74, a continuous negative pressure suction force is formed on the surface of the label-cutting drum 74 using an external air source, thus ensuring that the label does not shift during label cutting. At the moment the label is cut, it often retracts due to the elasticity of the material itself. This device uses negative pressure to firmly adhere the label to the surface of the label-cutting drum 74, forcibly fixing its position and effectively overcoming the label rebound problem. The cut label can adhere to the surface of the label-cutting drum 74 and be transferred to the next station, i.e., the label suction device 8, as it rotates, avoiding label drifting or shaking caused by inertia or airflow during high-speed movement, and ensuring the accuracy of subsequent label picking.

[0065] This invention ingeniously utilizes the label-cutting shaft passing through the central clearance channel of the label-cutting air vent 73, integrating the air path inside the air vent and the blade drum. This design achieves a dynamic, sealed connection between the rotating component and the fixed air source label-cutting suction tube, and then distributes the airflow through the air vent. This not only makes the overall structure very compact, saving space occupied by the second worktable 1, but also ensures that the negative pressure of the suction channel remains stable and reliable during the high-speed rotation of the label-cutting blade drum 74, preventing damage to the air tube or fluctuations in suction due to rotational entanglement.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the label suction device 8 includes a label suction motor, a label suction shaft 81, a label suction ventilation plate 82, a label suction tube 83, and a label suction drum 84. The label suction motor is located on the second workbench 1, and the label suction ventilation plate 82 is located on the second workbench 1. A label suction clearance channel is provided in the middle of the label suction ventilation plate 82. One end of the label suction shaft 81 is connected to the label suction motor, and the other end of the label suction shaft 81 passes through the label suction clearance channel and is connected to the label suction drum 84. Both the label suction ventilation plate 82 and the label suction drum 84 have interconnected label suction and air intake channels inside. The outer wall of the label suction drum 84 has multiple label suction holes 85 that are all connected to the label suction and air intake channels. One end of the label suction tube 83 is connected to the label suction ventilation plate 82, and the other end of the label suction tube 83 is connected to an external air source.

[0067] Specifically, this invention features a label suction channel connected to an external air source inside the label suction drum 84, and multiple label suction holes 85 are formed on the outer wall of the drum. This design allows a uniform and continuous negative pressure suction area to be formed on the surface of the label suction drum 84. Through cooperation with the label cutting device 7, for example, if the suction force of the label cutting device 7 is less than that of the label suction device 8, when the label suction drum 84 rotates to the label picking position, it can use strong suction to firmly adhere the cut label to the drum surface. Compared to mechanical clamping, this extends the service life of the equipment and reduces maintenance costs.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, the second unwinding device 2 includes an unwinding bracket 21, an unwinding motor 22, an unwinding reel 23, an unwinding shaft 24, an unwinding pressure plate 25, and an unwinding detection unit 26. The unwinding bracket 21 is located on the second workbench 1, the unwinding motor 22 is located on the unwinding bracket 21, the unwinding motor 22 is connected to the unwinding reel 23 to drive the unwinding reel 23 to rotate, the unwinding shaft 24 is located on the unwinding reel 23, the unwinding pressure plate 25 is detachably connected to the unwinding shaft 24, and the unwinding detection unit 26 is located on the unwinding bracket 21.

[0069] Specifically, this invention employs an active unwinding structure in which the unwinding motor 22 directly drives the unwinding reel 23 to rotate. The motor can provide a stable and controllable driving torque according to the speed requirements of the production line, ensuring that the label roll maintains constant tension during the unwinding process. This effectively prevents the label tape from slackening or sagging due to inertia, or from stretching and deforming due to excessive tension, providing a high-quality material supply foundation for subsequent correction and label cutting processes.

[0070] Furthermore, the present invention provides a detachably connected unwinding pressure plate 25 on the unwinding shaft 24. This structural design makes the installation and removal of label rolls very simple. Operators only need to loosen the unwinding pressure plate 25 to remove the empty roll, insert a new label roll, and then lock the pressure plate, which greatly shortens the roll changeover time and reduces labor intensity. Moreover, the pressure plate can effectively fix the label roll axially on the unwinding reel 23, preventing the label roll from axially shifting or deviating during high-speed rotation and ensuring that the label tape always enters the buffer and correction device 6 along the correct path, avoiding jamming failures caused by deviation.

[0071] Furthermore, the second unwinding device 2 is equipped with a dedicated detection unit, such as a photoelectric sensor or encoder, which can monitor the rotation speed, remaining amount, or breakage status of the label roll in real time. When it detects that the labels are about to run out, the system can issue an alarm in advance or automatically trigger the label changing device 4 to switch between two workstations; when it detects a material shortage, it can immediately stop the machine for protection. This design significantly improves the intelligence and operational safety of the equipment and reduces the scrap rate.

[0072] In some embodiments, the glue supply device 9 and the glue application device 10 are both commonly used devices in the art, and will not be described in detail here.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13 As shown, the driving device 12 includes a driving motor 121, a driving cylinder 122, a driving support frame 123, a first driving guide roller 124, and a second driving guide roller 125. The driving support frame 123 is mounted on the second worktable 1. The first driving guide roller 124 and the second driving guide roller 125 are both rotatably connected to the driving support frame 123. The driving motor 121 is connected to the first driving guide roller 124 to drive the first driving guide roller 124 to rotate. The driving cylinder 122 can be connected to the second driving guide roller 125 through the driving block 126 and the bearing seat to drive the second driving guide roller 125 to move closer to or away from the first driving guide roller 124. The first driving guide roller 124 and the second driving guide roller 125 together clamp the label tape, thereby driving the label tape to move along the path.

[0074] Specifically, this invention abandons the traditional single-roller friction drive or passive traction method, and adopts a clamping and feeding structure in which the first drive guide roller 124 and the second drive guide roller 125 jointly clamp the label tape. The drive motor 121 directly drives the first drive guide roller 124 to rotate, and the clamping force between the two rollers firmly presses the label tape in the middle. This structure greatly increases the friction between the drive guide roller and the label tape. Even under high-speed start, emergency stop or heavy load, it can ensure that there is no relative slippage between the label tape and the drive roller, realize precise synchronous transmission, and effectively avoid labeling position deviation caused by slippage.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14As shown, the labeling device 11 includes a labeling support frame 111, a labeling baffle 112, and a labeling linear drive unit 113. The labeling linear drive unit 113 can be a linear synchronous motor. The labeling support frame 111 is located on the second workbench 1, and the labeling linear drive unit 113 is located on the labeling support frame 111 and connected to the labeling baffle 112 to drive the labeling baffle 112 close to the packaging bottle to be labeled. The labeling baffle 112 has an arc shape.

[0076] Specifically, this invention employs an arc-shaped label baffle 112, the curvature of which is typically adapted to the outer contour of the bottle to be labeled. After the label is affixed to the bottle, the label linear drive unit 113 drives the label baffle 112 towards the bottle body. The arc-shaped baffle can apply a rolling or wrapping pressure to the label through surface contact. Compared to traditional fixed scrapers or flat pressure blocks, this arc-shaped structure can conform to the curvature of the bottle, evenly pressing the label from the center to both sides or along the curved surface of the bottle, effectively removing air bubbles between the label and the bottle body, preventing wrinkles and curling edges, and greatly improving the appearance and aesthetics of the label.

[0077] Furthermore, the linear synchronous motor eliminates the need for an intermediate mechanical transmission mechanism, achieving extremely high dynamic response speed. It instantly completes the extension and retraction of the label, perfectly matching the production cycle of high-speed labeling machines and avoiding bottle jamming or incomplete label placement caused by lag. Moreover, the linear synchronous motor allows for precise digital control of the displacement, speed, and thrust of the label baffle 112. The system can flexibly adjust the pressure and contact time of the label according to the bottle size or label material, achieving soft-contact labeling. This ensures effective labeling while preventing bottle crushing or label surface damage due to excessive pressure.

[0078] Understandably, the shape of the label baffle 112 can be changed according to different bottle shapes, such as a straight plate or a right angle shape.

[0079] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the connection device includes a locking mechanism 80, a quick-connect pneumatic connector, and a circuit communication interface. The locking mechanism 80 is used to lock the functional station to the main frame 13. The quick-connect pneumatic connector is used to connect the main pneumatic path of the main frame 13 to the pneumatic components of the functional station. The circuit communication interface is used to transmit control signals to the functional station.

[0080] Specifically, the locking mechanism 80 includes locking bolts and locking nuts. The main frame 13 and the functional station are provided with corresponding connection holes. They are connected by locking bolts and locking nuts, making disassembly and assembly very convenient.

[0081] This invention employs a combined design of pneumatic quick-connect connectors and electrical communication interfaces. When replacing functional stations, operators no longer need to search for and connect cumbersome air pipes and wires one by one; they only need to align and insert the corresponding pneumatic quick-connect connector and electrical communication interface to complete the connection. The standardized interface design effectively avoids equipment failures caused by manual wiring errors, significantly reduces the time cost and technical threshold for changeover and debugging, and enables plug-and-play functionality of the modules.

[0082] Furthermore, the locking mechanism 80 employs a combination of locking bolts and locking nuts, providing a high-strength mechanical connection between the main frame 13 and the functional labeling station. The labeling machine generates vibration during high-speed operation. The rigid connection of the bolts and nuts effectively resists this vibration, preventing minor displacement or loosening of the functional labeling station.

[0083] Furthermore, the locking bolts and nuts are standard parts, making disassembly and assembly simple and intuitive, requiring no special or complex tools. When the functional station needs offline maintenance, simply unscrewing the nuts allows the entire station to be removed without damaging other structures on the main frame 13. This design enables maintenance work to be performed off the production line, minimizing equipment downtime and improving the overall uptime of the production line.

[0084] Secondly, a labeling method is provided, including the following steps: According to the adhesive type requirements of the products to be labeled, select the corresponding functional labeling station and install it on the main frame 13, and connect it through the connecting device; The bottle feeding device 15 conveys unlabeled packaging bottles to the transition device 17; The rotating device 14 drives the packaging bottle to move and passes through the functional labeling station for labeling; The labeled bottles are driven by the rotating device 14 to the transition device 17, and the transition device 17 transports the labeled bottles to the bottle outlet device 16.

[0085] In the labeling method of this invention, relying on the hardware architecture of a modular labeling machine, and through a standardized operating procedure, the limitation of traditional labeling machines that can only apply one type of adhesive is broken. When the production line needs to change product packaging, it is not necessary to replace the entire machine; only the labeling station module needs to be replaced according to this method, resulting in higher work efficiency.

[0086] The above description is only a partial embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principle of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular labeling machine, characterized in that, It includes a main frame (13), a rotating device (14), a bottle inlet device (15), a bottle outlet device (16), a transition device (17), and a functional marker station; The main frame (13) is provided with a connecting device. The rotating device (14), the bottle inlet device (15), the bottle outlet device (16) and the transition device (17) are all located on the main frame (13). The transition device (17) is used to connect the bottle inlet device (15), the bottle outlet device (16) and the rotating device (14). The rotating device (14) is used to drive the packaging bottle through the functional labeling station for labeling. The functional labeling station is detachably connected to the main frame (13) through the connecting device. The functional labeling station includes at least one of a self-adhesive labeling station and a hot melt adhesive labeling station.

2. The modular labeling machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transition device (17) includes a transition support frame (171), a transition plate (172), and two transition components (173). The transition plate (172) is disposed on the transition support frame (171), and the two transition components (173) are disposed on the transition support frame (171) and respectively on both sides of the transition plate (172). One of the transition components (173) is used to connect the bottle inlet device (15), and the other transition component (173) is used to connect the bottle outlet device (16). The transition assembly (173) includes a transition motor (1731) and a transition guide wheel (1732). The transition motor (1731) is located on the transition support frame (171) and connected to the transition guide wheel (1732) to drive the transition guide wheel (1732) to rotate. The outer periphery of the transition guide wheel (1732) is provided with a plurality of transition grooves (1734), which are arc-shaped. The side of the transition plate (172) near the transition guide wheel (1732) is an arc surface.

3. The modular labeling machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottle feeding device (15) includes a bottle feeding frame (151), a bottle feeding conveyor belt (152), a bottle feeding screw (153), and a bottle feeding motor (154). The bottle feeding conveyor belt (152) is located on the bottle feeding frame (151). The bottle feeding screw (153) is rotatably connected to the bottle feeding frame (151). The bottle feeding motor (154) is connected to the bottle feeding screw (153) to drive the bottle feeding screw (153) to rotate and move the packaging bottle to the transition device (17).

4. The modular labeling machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The self-adhesive labeling station includes a first workbench (18), a displacement device (19), a support base (20), a first unwinding device (30), a first buffer device (40), a labeling device (50), and a rewinding device (60). The displacement device (19) is located on the first workbench (18), and the displacement device (19) is connected to the support base (20). The first unwinding device (30), the first buffer device (40), the labeling device (50) and the winding device (60) are all located on the support base (20).

5. The modular labeling machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first buffer device (40) includes a buffer motor (401), a first buffer support frame (402), a first buffer roller (403), and a plurality of first buffer guide rollers (404). The first buffer support frame (402) is disposed on the support base (20), the buffer motor (401) is disposed on the first buffer support frame (402), the first buffer roller (403) is rotatably connected to the first buffer support frame (402), the buffer motor (401) is connected to the first buffer roller (403), and the plurality of first buffer guide rollers (404) are spaced apart on the support base (20). The label is wound around the first buffer roller (403) and the plurality of first buffer guide rollers (404).

6. The modular labeling machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The self-adhesive label station also includes a first trolley (70), and the first workbench (18) is located on the first trolley (70).

7. The modular labeling machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hot melt adhesive labeling station includes a second workbench (1) and a second unwinding device (2), a label changing device (4), a second buffer device (5), a deviation correction device (6), a label cutting device (7), a label suction device (8), an adhesive supply device (9), an adhesive coating device (10), a label smoothing device (11), and a driving device (12) all located on the second workbench (1). The number of the second unwinding devices (2) is at least two, and at least two of the second unwinding devices (2) are used to place label rolls. The label rolls pass through the label changing device (4), the second buffer device (5), the deviation correction device (6), the label cutting device (7), and the label suction device (8) in sequence.

8. The modular labeling machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The hot melt adhesive marking station also includes a second trolley (3), and the second workbench (1) is located on the second trolley (3).

9. The modular labeling machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connection device includes a locking mechanism (80), a quick-connect pneumatic connector, and a circuit communication interface. The locking mechanism (80) is used to lock the functional station to the main frame (13). The quick-connect pneumatic connector is used to connect the main pneumatic path of the main frame (13) to the pneumatic component of the functional station. The circuit communication interface is used to transmit control signals to the functional station.

10. A labeling method, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: According to the adhesive type requirements of the products to be labeled, select the corresponding functional labeling station and install it on the main frame (13), and connect it through the connecting device; The bottle feeding device (15) transports unlabeled packaging bottles to the transition device (17). The rotating device (14) drives the packaging bottle to move and passes through the functional labeling station for labeling; The labeled bottles are driven by the rotating device (14) to the transition device (17), and the transition device (17) transports the labeled bottles to the bottle outlet device (16).

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