Portable label roll holder for container labeling apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates in particular to a portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10") for fitting a container labelling apparatus (90) for dispensing a label strip (14) to the container labelling apparatus (90). The label roll holder (10, 10', 10") has a receiving device (12) which is configured to receive a label roll (14) and from which the received label roll (14) can be unwound. The label roll holder (10, 10', 10") also has a strip delivery device (26) for delivering the label strip (14A) unwound from the received label roll (14) to the container labelling apparatus (90).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a portable label roll holder and a container labeling apparatus including the portable label roll holder. The invention also relates to a method for assembling the container labeling apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Container handling facilities may include labeling devices for labeling containers. For example, the labeling device may use labels from label rolls (label material wound on a core) to label containers.

[0003] Traditionally, label rolls are refilled manually by operators. Users may have to perform additional tasks such as cutting the label strips in the correct position, applying double-sided tape to the label strips, or inserting the label strips into an automatic gluing machine.

[0004] Manually mountable (tag) volume storage devices or multi-reel devices can be used as buffers to enable longer periods of uninterrupted operation or extend runtime without the need for frequent manual replenishment of tag volumes.

[0005] The initial known solution attempts to automate the tasks involved in preparing the label volume and loading the labeling device.

[0006] DE 10 2021 125 133 A1, for example, describes a mobile robot, a supply system, and a method for replacing a label roll located on a labeling assembly for labeling containers. The mobile robot includes a vehicle unit for changing the robot's position, and the manipulator unit has a multi-axis manipulator and an associated end effector for manipulating the label roll.

[0007] For other prior art, see EP 2 061 702 A1, DE 10 2017 206 549 A1, EP 3 760550 A1 and EP 3 473 570 A1.

[0008] Disadvantages of existing technologies may include being overly complex, requiring excessive facility footprint, and lacking process reliability during the handling of label rolls, particularly when the label rolls are clamped from the outside.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to create an improved technology for supply container labeling devices. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This objective is achieved by the features described in the independent claim. Advantageous developments are pointed out in the dependent claims and the specification.

[0011] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a portable label roll holder for mounting or attaching to a container labeling device to deliver label strips to the device. The label roll holder has a receiving device configured to receive a label roll (preferably by attaching a label roll), and the received label roll can be unrolled from the receiving device. The label roll holder also has a strip delivery device for delivering the label strips unrolled from the received (e.g., attached) label roll to the container labeling device.

[0012] Using portable label roll holders to assemble labeling devices with label rolls offers numerous advantages. For example, pre-production preparation of the label rolls, such as handling the strip starter, can be completed off-line. Preparation steps can also be performed centrally for multiple labeling devices. Using mobile systems, such as automated guided vehicles, the label rolls prepared in the portable label roll holder can then be flexibly transported to the labeling devices on the production line. The portable label roll holder typically serves as an interface between the label rolls and the labeling devices. In particular, the strip delivery device can also provide a predetermined receiving interface for the labeling device to receive the strip starter of at least one held label roll. The portable label roll holder can also provide protection for the prepared label rolls. Furthermore, process reliability and machine availability can be advantageously improved. Critical process steps for preparing the label rolls can be performed off-line and thus separated from the production process. Therefore, the number of potential sources of error in the labeling device can be reduced. The portable label roll holder also advantageously makes it easier and more convenient to automate label roll feeding, ranging from partial automation with operator intervention to full automation. Automation can advantageously reduce operator workload because it reduces the number of potential sources of error and improves ergonomics by eliminating the need to lift re-labeling rolls. Another advantage is that the labeling equipment itself requires almost no modification to achieve these benefits.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment, the receiving device (e.g., via a rotary bearing) is rotatably mounted, preferably on the housing of the portable label roll holder or on the spindle of the portable label roll holder, to unfold the received label roll. This can advantageously facilitate or enable the label roll to be held in / on the receiving device of the label roll holder during production. That is, the container labeling equipment can be equipped with the assembled portable label roll holder and use the label roll held therein within the label roll holder.

[0014] In another embodiment, the receiving device has a disc-shaped body for lateral support of the received label roll. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving device has a collar to which the label roll can be attached, or multiple carriers to which the label roll can be attached. This can advantageously ensure robust support of the label roll during transport and production.

[0015] In one implementation, at least one of the following conditions is met:

[0016] - The disc-shaped body has a central opening, and a collar or multiple carriers are arranged coaxially with the central opening, preferably adjacent to the central opening;

[0017] - The portable label roll holder also includes a movable, preferably pivotable, locking element (e.g., a rotating arm, preferably a double-sided rotating lever arm), which is elastically pre-tensioned to lock the disc-shaped body; and

[0018] - The collar or carrier has a clamping device for clamping the core of the label roll from the inside.

[0019] This can advantageously ensure particularly strong support for the label rolls during transportation and production.

[0020] In another embodiment, the portable label roll holder also has at least one preferably tapered positioning element for positioning the portable label roll holder in or on the transport frame, or in or on the label roll holder receiving portion of the container labeling equipment. Advantageously, this ensures safe and automated transport.

[0021] In one variant, the strip delivery device is configured to deflect the unfolded label strip, preferably at least 90°. Alternatively or additionally, the strip delivery device has a fixing element, preferably (e.g., elastically pre-tensioned) a clamping strip, for securing the starting end of the received label roll's strip to the outside of a portable label roll holder. Alternatively or additionally, the strip delivery device has: a deflecting element, preferably a deflecting roller, for deflecting the unfolded label strip; and (optionally) a movable, preferably pivotable pressing element, preferably a brush-like element, which is elastically pre-tensioned to press the unfolded label strip against, preferably against, the deflecting element. The deflection of the label strip can advantageously ensure its secure guidance toward the strip delivery device. Advantageously, the fixing element allows the strip latch to be securely fixed in a predetermined position to provide a predetermined receiving interface.

[0022] In another variation, the portable label roll holder also has a housing in which a receiving device and a strip delivery device are housed or on the housing. This can, for example, advantageously improve the protective function of the portable label roll holder for the held label roll.

[0023] In the exemplary implementation, at least one of the following conditions must also be met:

[0024] - The strip delivery device is movably, preferably pivotally, connected to the housing;

[0025] - The housing forms a box for the label roll, preferably a box that can be opened;

[0026] - The housing has an adjustment access opening for adjusting the pressing element of the strip delivery device within the housing; and

[0027] - The housing has a drive access opening leading to the receiving device and / or to the receiving space for the received tag roll, for applying a friction wheel to the receiving device (e.g., to the disc-shaped body of the receiving device) and / or the received tag roll to rotate the received tag roll.

[0028] This advantageously allows for the integration of further functional improvements into the housing or portable label roll holder.

[0029] It is also possible that the housing has a double-walled housing portion, and a portion of the locking element and the pivot axis of the locking element are arranged between the two walls of the double-walled housing portion.

[0030] In another embodiment, the portable label roll holder further includes at least one additional receiving device, preferably at least four, at least nine, or at least fourteen additional receiving devices, which is configured as such receiving device. Optionally, the portable label roll holder may also have at least one additional strip delivery device for the at least one additional receiving device, preferably at least four, at least nine, or at least fourteen additional strip delivery devices, wherein at least one additional strip delivery device is configured as such a strip delivery device. Preferably, the receiving device and the at least one additional receiving device can be arranged side-by-side in a row, preferably coaxially and / or aligned with each other. Preferably, the strip delivery device and the at least one additional strip delivery device can be arranged side-by-side in a row, preferably aligned with each other. Thus, the portable label roll holder can advantageously be used as a portable storage box for multiple label rolls, thereby amplifying the positive effects of the advantages mentioned at the outset.

[0031] In one embodiment, the portable label roll holder further includes a spindle, receiving devices, and at least one additional receiving device capable of being received (received) side-by-side on the spindle, preferably capable of being attached (attached) to the spindle, and preferably with a rotary bearing provided on the spindle for each receiving device. This advantageously allows for reliable and easy assembly of the portable label roll holder with label rolls. Furthermore, because force is introduced directly into the spindle, the spindle eliminates the need for an additional (stabilizing) back wall for the receiving devices, which might be necessary, for example, in a cassette or roll insert.

[0032] In another embodiment, the portable label roll holder further includes (e.g., an open) storage box frame that supports the receiving device, at least one additional receiving device, a strip delivery device, and at least one additional strip delivery device. Preferably, the storage box frame can support the receiving device and the at least one additional receiving device via a mandrel, which is preferably supported only on one side of the storage box frame. Alternatively or additionally, the storage box frame can support the strip delivery device and at least one additional strip delivery device on the upper side of the storage box frame and / or on an extended support of the storage box frame. This advantageously allows for the storage, transport, and use of multiple label rolls for production within a compact installation space. Since the portable label roll holder and its storage box frame can be used for direct assembly of, for example, label roll storage devices, the structure of the label roll storage device can also be advantageously simplified, for example, eliminating the need for roll inserts, telescopic rails, etc. The storage box frame can also facilitate the use of automated transport vehicles and thereby increase their utilization.

[0033] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to the use of portable label roll holders as disclosed herein for:

[0034] - Maintain at least one label roll during transport to the container labeling equipment; and / or

[0035] - A label roll storage device for assembly container labeling equipment or a labeling component for assembly container labeling equipment; and / or

[0036] - A predetermined receiving interface is provided to the container labeling equipment via a strip delivery device to receive the starting end of the strip of the at least one held label roll; and / or

[0037] - Unroll the at least one held label roll during labeling using a container labeling device; and / or

[0038] - Provides an interface between label rolls and container labeling equipment.

[0039] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a container labeling apparatus including a labeling assembly. The labeling assembly may have a label roll holder receiving portion. Alternatively, the container labeling apparatus may also have a label roll storage device having at least one label roll holder receiving portion. The container labeling apparatus also includes a portable label roll holder as disclosed herein, which is housed in or on the label roll holder receiving portion for delivering label strips to the labeling assembly for labeling the container. Advantageously, the container labeling apparatus can achieve the same advantages as those already described with reference to the portable label roll holder.

[0040] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a container handling facility (e.g., for temperature control, production, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, sealing, pasteurizing, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging of containers for liquid or paste-like media (preferably beverages, liquid foods, or products in the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries). The container handling facility may include portable label roll holders as disclosed herein or container labeling equipment as disclosed herein. Advantageously, this container handling facility can achieve the same advantages as those already described with reference to portable label roll holders.

[0041] For example, containers can be made into bottles, cans, tubes, cartons, small bottles, pipes, etc.

[0042] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for supplying at least one label roll to a container labeling device. The method includes:

[0043] - Provides portable label roll holders as disclosed herein;

[0044] - Preferably, a portable tag roll holder is assembled with at least one tag roll in a robot (e.g., an articulated arm) and / or in a robot unit (e.g., a central one);

[0045] - Transporting the assembled portable label roll holder to container labeling equipment (e.g., alone or together with other label roll holders in the transport frame), preferably by automated guided vehicles (e.g., automated forklifts or automated mobile platforms); and

[0046] - Preferably, the container labeling equipment (e.g., the labeling component of the container labeling equipment or the roll storage device of the container labeling equipment) is assembled automatically (e.g., by automated guided vehicles and / or by (e.g., by an attached robot) with an assembled portable label roll holder.

[0047] Advantageously, this method can achieve the same advantages as those already described with reference to portable label roll holders. The same applies to the preferred exemplary embodiments of the method described below.

[0048] In one embodiment, assembling a portable label roll holder includes at least one of the following:

[0049] - Check the winding direction of at least one label roll, and based on the checked winding direction (e.g., before positioning at least one label roll in a portable label roll holder), preferably use a robot to align at least one label roll;

[0050] - Preferably opened by a robot, preferably unfolded, to position at least one label roll in the label roll holder;

[0051] - Preferably, at least one tag roll is received by a robot onto the receiving device of a portable tag roll holder, and more preferably, the receiving is achieved by attaching at least one tag roll;

[0052] - Preferably, the starting end of the strip of at least one label roll is detected by a robot (e.g., before or after positioning at least one label roll in a portable label roll holder) and the starting end of the strip is cut off.

[0053] - After positioning at least one tag roll in the tag roll holder, the tag roll holder is closed, preferably folded and closed by a robot; and

[0054] - Preferably, a robot secures the starting end of at least one label roll already received in a portable label roll holder to a predetermined position in the strip delivery device.

[0055] In another exemplary embodiment, the container labeling device assembled with the assembled portable label roll holder includes at least one of the following:

[0056] - Aligning the label roll holder with the label roll holder receiving portion of the container labeling device by interlocking at least one (e.g., tapered) positioning element (e.g., centering element) of the label roll holder with at least one (e.g., tapered) positioning element (e.g., centering element) of the label roll holder receiving portion; and

[0057] - The label roll holder is lifted by the lifting device of the container labeling equipment (e.g., the roll storage device of the container labeling equipment).

[0058] The preferred embodiments and features of the present invention described above can be combined with each other as desired. Attached Figure Description

[0059] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0060] Figure 1 A perspective view of a portable label roll holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0061] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Another perspective view of the portable label roll holder;

[0062] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 Detailed view of a portion of the portable label roll holder;

[0063] Figure 4 It shows the source including the one positioned therein. Figure 1A perspective view of the transport frame of multiple portable label roll holders;

[0064] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Side view of the transport frame;

[0065] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 A top view of the transport frame;

[0066] Figure 7 It shows Figure 4 Another view of the transport frame;

[0067] Figure 8 A perspective view of a portable label roll holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0068] Figure 9 It shows a shell with a transparent wall. Figure 8 A perspective view of a portable label roll holder;

[0069] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the assembly process for a portable label roll holder is shown;

[0070] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the assembly process for a portable label roll holder is shown;

[0071] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a system for assembling a portable label roll holder is shown;

[0072] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the assembly process for a label roll holder is shown;

[0073] Figure 14 A perspective view of a portable label roll holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0074] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 Another perspective view of the portable label roll holder;

[0075] Figure 16 It shows the use of Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the assembly process of a portable label roll holder;

[0076] Figure 17 A schematic diagram illustrates the process of receiving and transporting at least one portable tag roll holder using an automated guided vehicle;

[0077] Figure 18 A schematic diagram illustrates the process of receiving and transporting at least one portable tag roll holder using an automated guided vehicle;

[0078] Figure 19 A schematic diagram illustrates the process of receiving and transporting at least one portable tag roll holder using an automated guided vehicle;

[0079] Figure 20 A schematic diagram of an automated guided vehicle is shown;

[0080] Figure 21 A schematic diagram illustrates the process of receiving and transporting at least one portable tag roll holder using an automated guided vehicle;

[0081] Figure 22 A top view of the area where the container labeling device is located is shown;

[0082] Figure 23 A top view of the area of ​​the container labeling device's roll storage unit is shown;

[0083] Figure 24 A perspective view shows the process of assembling a roll storage device for a container labeling equipment; and

[0084] Figure 25 A schematic diagram of the assembly process for a container labeling device is shown.

[0085] The embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings correspond at least partially to each other, such that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals, and reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or drawings to avoid repetition. Detailed Implementation

[0086] Figures 1 to 3 A portable label roll holder 10 or a portion thereof for container labeling equipment is shown.

[0087] A label roll holder 10 is configured to connect to a container labeling device to deliver label strips to the device. The dispensed label strips can be used to label containers via the container labeling device. Preferably, the label strips are dispensed while the container labeling device is labeling the containers.

[0088] The label roll holder 10 is, for example, configured as a label roll storage device (multi-roll device) for assembling container labeling equipment. The label roll storage device can automatically supply label strips to the labeling components of the container labeling equipment.

[0089] The label roll holder 10 has a receiving device 12 and a strip delivery device 26. Preferably, the label roll holder 10 may also include a locking element 24 and / or a housing 34.

[0090] Preferably, the tag roll 14 can be attached to the receiving device 12. Preferably, the receiving device 12 can locate and align the attached tag roll 14.

[0091] The tag roll 14 received by the receiving device 12 can be unfolded from the receiving device 12. Preferably, the receiving device 12 can be rotatably mounted, preferably on the housing wall of the housing 34, for unfolding the attached tag roll 14. A swivel bearing 16 can be rotatably mounted on the receiving device 12. The swivel bearing 16 can preferably be constructed as a deep groove ball bearing. For example, the swivel bearing 16 can connect the receiving device 12 and the housing 34 to each other.

[0092] The receiving device 12 may, for example, have a disc-shaped body 18 and multiple carriers 20.

[0093] The disc-shaped body 18 can laterally support the received tag roll 14, for example, on the disc-shaped side surface of the tag roll 14. The attached tag roll 14 can abut against the disc-shaped body 18.

[0094] The carrier 20 supports the label roll 14 on its inner circumferential side. The label roll 14 can be attached to the carrier 20. Preferably, the carrier 20 can collectively form or include a clamping device for the label roll 14, preferably a clamping mandrel. The clamping device is capable of internally clamping the core of the label roll 14. It is possible that multiple carriers 20 are connected to each other in such a way that they collectively form a collar to which the label roll 14 can be attached.

[0095] Preferably, the carrier 20 can be arranged coaxially with the central opening 22 of the disc-shaped body 18. Specifically, the carrier 20 can be located on an imaginary ring whose central axis is coaxial with the central opening 22. Particularly preferably, the carrier 20 is directly adjacent to the central opening 22.

[0096] Preferably, the carrier 20 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the disc-shaped body 18. Specifically, the longitudinal axis of the carrier 20 may extend substantially perpendicular to the alignment plane of the disc-shaped body 18.

[0097] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the receiving device 12 is configured as a passive receiving device or a receiving device without its own drive mechanism. However, alternatively, the receiving device 12 may have its own rotation drive mechanism. Figures 1 to 3 (Not shown in the image). The rotary drive can, for example, rotate the disc-shaped body 18 and / or the carrier 20. Preferably, the rotary drive can be arranged in the central opening 22 and / or in a receiving space arranged between or inside the carriers 20. The rotary drive can, for example, have a cylindrical external shape that fits into the central opening 22 and / or between the carriers 20. The rotary drive can preferably be configured as an electric motor.

[0098] The locking element 24 can be movable and elastically pre-tensioned to lock the disc-shaped body 18. Specifically, the locking element 24 can be elastically pre-tensioned to contact the outer circumferential surface of the disc-shaped body 18 in order to lock the disc-shaped body 18. To achieve elastic pre-tensioning, for example, a spring or elastomeric element can be provided.

[0099] Preferably, the locking element 24 can be positioned around the pivot axis S1 (see...) Figure 1 Pivoting. Locking element 24 can be pivotally mounted on housing 34 via pivot axis S1.

[0100] Locking element 24 can be configured as a rotating arm. Locking element 24 can preferably be configured as a double-sided rotating arm or lever. A first end 24A of the rotating arm can contact the disc-shaped body 18 (e.g., its outer circumferential surface) under elastic pretension. A second end 24B opposite the first end can be, for example, manually or mechanically actuated (e.g., by a robot or a housing portion of a friction wheel drive for rotating the label roll), preferably pressed downwards. By actuating the second end, the first end 24A can preferably overcome the elastic pretension and disengage from the disc-shaped body 18, so as to release the disc-shaped body 18, for example, by pivoting about a pivot axis S1. Preferably, the second end 24B can be accessed from the outside of the label strip holder 10 or its housing 34. Preferably, rubber and / or braking elements can be arranged at the first end 24.

[0101] The strip delivery device 26 is used to deliver the label strip 14A unwound from the received label roll 14 to the container labeling equipment. The strip delivery device 26 may preferably be arranged in the corner area of ​​the label roll holder 10 and / or housing 34.

[0102] The strip delivery device 26 may, for example, have a fixing element 28, a deflecting element 30 and / or a pressing element 32.

[0103] The retaining element 28 can secure the starting end of the label strip 14A of the attached label roll 14 to the outside of the label roll holder 10. For example, the retaining element 28 can be configured as a clamping strip. Preferably, the clamping strip can clamp the starting end of the strip between itself and a wall portion of the strip delivery device 26. Preferably, the clamping strip and / or the wall portion can have shaped (e.g., grooved) clamping portions for clamping the starting end of the strip at multiple points.

[0104] Preferably, the fixing element 28 can be elastically pre-tensioned to secure, preferably clamp, the starting end of the strip. For example, the fixing element 28 can be elastically pre-tensioned by a tension spring or a compression spring.

[0105] Preferably, the fixing element 28 can be arranged at the front end / free end of the strip delivery device 26.

[0106] Deflection element 30 can deflect label strip 14A (see Figure 3 Preferably, the deflection element 30 can be configured as a deflection roller. Preferably, the deflection element 30 can deflect the label strip 14A (e.g., substantially tangent to the label roll 14) unwound from the label roll 14 toward the fixing element 28 by, for example, about 90°.

[0107] The deflection element 30 may preferably be arranged in the corner area of ​​the label roll holder 10 and / or the strip delivery device 26.

[0108] Preferably, the deflection element 30 can be rotated about the rotation axis D1. For example, the deflection element 30 can be rotatably connected to the housing 34 via the rotation axis D1.

[0109] The movable pressing element 32 can be elastically pre-tensioned to press the label strip against the deflecting element 30, for example, by means of a torsion spring. Preferably, the pressing element 32 is pivotable about a pivot axis S2. For example, the pressing element 32 can be pivotally connected to the housing 34 via the pivot axis S2.

[0110] Preferably, the elastic preload of the movable pressing element 32 can be adjusted, for example, by correspondingly torturing a torsion spring. Preferably, the torsion spring can be arranged in or around the pivot axis S2.

[0111] The pressing element 32 can preferably be configured as a brush pressing element. The pressing element 32 can have a brush-like portion 32A. The brush-like portion 32A can be arranged to brush the label strip 14A onto the deflection element 30. For example, the brush-like portion 32A can be arranged at the free end of the pressing element 32.

[0112] The receiving device 12 and the strip delivery device 26 can be housed in or on the housing 34. Figures 1 to 3 The housing 34 is shown only partially to illustrate the components housed within it. In principle, the housing 34 can be a substantially closed housing, formed, for example, by a plurality of detachably connected housing components (e.g., plates and / or outer shells). However, it is also possible to construct the housing 34 as an open housing, allowing free access to the tag roll 14 and the receiving device 12.

[0113] Preferably, the housing 34 can be configured to form or be constructed as a box. The housing 34 can form a box for the label roll 14.

[0114] Preferably, the dimensions of the box can be adapted to the roll height and / or roll width of each label roll 14, for example, accurate to the nearest mm or cm. Preferably, boxes can be provided in different sizes for different sizes of label rolls 14. For example, the box can have a grid-like stepped construction, for example, for roll height / width <50mm; <100mm; etc. Preferably, depending on the application, the box can be relatively enclosed to prevent contamination and contact, or relatively open to save weight and resources. Possibly, the box has a passive or active receiving device 12, which is preferably also used to center the label rolls 14.

[0115] Preferably, the strip delivery device 26 can be movably, and preferably pivotally connected to the housing 34. For example, the strip delivery device 26 can be pivotally connected to the housing 34 via a pivot axis S3. The strip delivery device 26 can be configured as a cover, which is movably, and preferably pivotally connected to the housing 34. Thus, the strip delivery device 26 can, for example, be removed, preferably pivoted away, to provide access to the label roll 14 in the otherwise closed housing 34.

[0116] The housing 34 may have a double-walled housing portion 34A.

[0117] Preferably, a portion of the locking element 24 and the pivot axis S1 can be arranged between the two walls of the double-walled housing portion 34A.

[0118] Preferably, a portion of the strip delivery device 26 and the pivot axis S3 for the strip delivery device 26 can be arranged between the two walls of the double-walled housing portion 34A.

[0119] The housing 34 may preferably have an adjustment access opening 34B for adjusting the pressing element 32, for example, by means of a torsion spring. For example, a tool for adjusting the pressing element 32 can be inserted through the adjustment access opening 34B.

[0120] Housing 34 may have a drive access opening 34C (only in...) Figure 2 (Schematally shown as an open housing 34). A drive access opening 34C provides access to a receiving space within the disc-shaped body 18 and / or housing 34 for the label roll 14. Through the drive access opening 34C, for example, a friction wheel can be applied to the disc-shaped body 18 and / or label roll 14 for winding (e.g., unwinding or rolling up) the label roll 14.

[0121] Figures 4 to 7 An example transport frame 36 is shown for transporting multiple portable label roll holders 10.

[0122] The transport frame 36 can be moved / transported, for example, using a hand pallet truck, forklift, or automated guided vehicle. Alternatively, the transport frame 36 may have ground rollers for moving it, enabling it to be pulled or pushed.

[0123] Multiple label roll holders 10 can be positioned in the transport frame 36 and optionally additionally secured.

[0124] Preferably, the label roll holders 10 can be positioned side-by-side in the transport frame 36. The transport frame 36 may be open, for example, at the top and front, to allow the label roll holders 10 to be positioned within the transport frame 36.

[0125] Preferably, each label roll holder 10 may have multiple positioning elements 38, such as Figures 5 to 7 As shown schematically. Positioning element 38 can preferably be interlocked with positioning element 40 of transport frame 36 for positioning each label roll holder 10 in transport frame 36.

[0126] For example, one of the positioning elements 38 and 40 may have a tapered mandrel, and the other of the positioning elements 38 and 40 may have a tapered receiving portion for the tapered mandrel.

[0127] Optional securing of the label roll holder 10 to the transport frame 36 may be necessary, for example, to prevent them from falling off during transport to the labeling equipment.

[0128] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A portable label roll holder 10' is shown.

[0129] The label roll holder 10' is configured, for example, as a labeling component for (direct) assembly container labeling equipment.

[0130] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the label roll holder 10' also has a receiving device 12 and a strip delivery device 26. Preferably, the label roll holder 10' may also have a housing 34, for example.

[0131] It goes without saying that the tag roll holder 10' can also be configured to consist of the transport frame 36 (see Figures 4 to 7 Transportation, for example, the transportation frame has multiple positioning elements.

[0132] The label roll holders 10 and / or 10' shown by example preferably have label rolls 14 assembled in the central assembly unit. Preferably, at least one of the following process steps, preferably all of them, can be performed here:

[0133] -Retrieve label roll 14 from storage location (e.g., tray).

[0134] - Check the winding direction of label roll 14 and change it if necessary.

[0135] Insert tag volume 14 into tag volume holders 10, 10' and optionally lock them.

[0136] - Locate and pull out the starting end of the strip of label roll 14.

[0137] - Cut the starting end of the strip on label roll 14.

[0138] - Position and secure the starting end of the strip of label roll 14 in label roll retainers 10, 10'.

[0139] -Prepare for bonding by applying double-sided tape or adhesive strips.

[0140] Tag roll holders 10, 10' can then preferably be in transport frame 36 (see Figures 4 to 7 The labels are transported to a container labeling device, where they are inserted into the labeling assembly or label roll storage device.

[0141] The steps mentioned can be performed automatically (e.g., by a robot) or manually. Generally, for fully automated assembly in a central assembly unit, a robot performs as many functional steps as possible, thus requiring few or no additional actuators / axis (for changing grippers, etc.). In a semi-automatic solution, all steps between automated and manual assembly can be envisioned. The label roll holders 10, 10' can also be manually assembled and, for example, placed on the transport frame 36.

[0142] The following is for reference. Figure 10 and Figure 11 Describe the particularly preferred assembly process.

[0143] Figure 10 A preferred process for assembling the label roll holder 10 is shown. Steps S10 to S20 described below can preferably be performed automatically using a robot. Alternatively, individual or all of steps S10 to S20 can be performed manually.

[0144] In step S10, the robot (not shown) may first, for example, remove from the pallet, from the transport frame 36 (see...) Figures 4 to 7 The robot can either pick up the tag roll holder 10 from another storage device or transport the tag roll holder 10 to the assembly station.

[0145] In step S12, the friction drive device 42 (e.g., a friction wheel drive device) can contact the disc-shaped body 18 at the assembly station, for example, via the drive access opening 34C. For example, the friction wheel drive device can be pivoted in. The friction drive device 42 can drive the disc-shaped body 18 to wind the label strip end onto the label core.

[0146] In step S14, the (box) housing 34 can be opened by the robot. Preferably, the strip delivery device 26 can also pivot away partially or completely, optionally pivoting away together with a portion of the housing 34. Optionally, the core of the label roll 14 used can be removed.

[0147] In step S16, the new tag roll 14 can be attached to or pushed onto the receiving device 12 by a robot.

[0148] In step S18, the friction drive device 42 can be operated in such a way that the label roll 14 is rotated to a desired rotational position. For example, the label roll 14 can be rotated until the mark 44 (e.g., a fixed label) of the label roll 14 is in the desired position, for example, detected by the camera device 46.

[0149] In step S20, the gripper 48 (e.g., a suction gripper) can break the fixing element of the label roll 14 and pull the starting end of the strip of the label roll 14 out until the insertion position. In the insertion position, the gripper 48 can release the label strip 14A, allowing the label strip to fall downward / pivot.

[0150] Then, for example, by pivoting the strip delivery device 26 inward, the housing 34 can be closed again. Figure 10 (Not shown in the image). Therefore, the starting end of the strip can be fixed by the fixing element 28, such as by clamping (see [reference]). Figure 1 and Figure 2 The label strip 14A can also be pressed against the deflection element 30 by the pressing element 32 (see...). Figure 3 ).

[0151] In a variation of step S20 described above, the fixing element reaches the container labeling device or enters production. If this is not desired, the fixing element of the label roll 14 can be broken by, for example, a gripper 48 (e.g., a suction gripper), and the starting end of the strip of the label roll 14 can be pulled out until the cutting position (not shown). At the cutting position, the cutting unit can cut the fixed label, for example, by cutting mark detection and / or position control. The cut portion can be disposed of, for example, using the gripper 48. Thus, the fixed label does not reach the container labeling device or enter production.

[0152] Figure 11 A preferred process for assembling the label roll holder 10' is shown.

[0153] In step S30, the robot (not shown) may first pick up the tag roll 14, for example, from a tray or from another storage device.

[0154] In step S32, the robot can bring the picked-up label roll 14 to the device 50 for removing the adhesive strip.

[0155] In step S34, the device 50 can remove the adhesive strip from the label strip 14A of the label roll 14.

[0156] In step S36, the robot can move the label roll 14 to the adhesive cutting device 52, which can optionally cut the label strip 14A and / or provide it with adhesive strips.

[0157] In step S38, the robot can position the prepared label strip 14 in the label roll holder 10' and fix the starting end of the label strip to the strip delivery device 26.

[0158] Figure 12 A preferred embodiment of the central assembly unit as robot unit 54 is shown.

[0159] Robotic unit 54 may have at least one robot 56. At least one robot 56 may remove empty label roll holders 10 or 10' from transport frame 36.1 and move them to assembly station 58. At least one robot 56 may also retrieve label rolls 14 from roll storage device 60 (e.g., pallet or workbench) and use the label rolls to assemble the label roll holders 10, 10' moving to assembly station 58. At least one robot 56 may then remove the assembled label roll holders 10, 10' from assembly station 58. The removed, assembled label roll holders 10, 10' may be moved by robot 56 to another transport frame 36.2 for transport to container labeling device.

[0160] The roll storage device 60 can preferably be used as a storage location (roll buffer) for the tag roll 14. For example, the roll storage device 60 can be refilled manually using a pallet truck or automatically using an automated guided vehicle.

[0161] In robot unit 54, for example, label roll holders 10 and / or 10' may be fitted with label rolls 14 and positioned in transport frame 36.2.

[0162] Preferably, the label rolls 14 in the label roll holders 10, 10' can be supplied by the robot unit 54. Preferably, the robot unit 54 can be configured such that manual operation can be performed even if the robot 56 is defective. For example, the label rolls 14 can be manually assembled into the label roll holders 10, 10' and / or the label strips can be manually prepared and inserted into the label roll holders 10, 10'.

[0163] Preferably, the device 62 for detecting and / or inspecting the tag roll 14 can be arranged on the robot 56 or elsewhere in the robot unit 54. The device 62 may include, for example, a camera, a capacitive sensor, a distance sensor, and / or an ultrasonic sensor.

[0164] Preferably, device 62 can inspect tag roll 14 for at least one of the following:

[0165] -Wrapping direction

[0166] - The position of the starting end of the strip

[0167] -Type, diameter, etc.

[0168] - Deviations from specifications (excess amount, size, weight, etc. of the label relative to the roll core)

[0169] -damage

[0170] - Initial checks to ensure successful pickup of the beginning of the strip (thus avoiding time-critical interruptions later when changing rolls).

[0171] It is possible that the label roll 14 to be inspected is placed in a separate position on the roll storage device 60. Preferably, if necessary, the label roll 14 can be rotated in the robot unit 54 by at least one robot 56.

[0172] Preferably, due to the modularity of the concept, the level of automation of the robot unit 54 can be adjusted. For example, in its simplest form, the unit may contain only one assembly station. The label rolls 14 can be assembled and prepared manually by an operator. In a standard configuration, these operator tasks can be performed by at least one robot 56. However, the delivery of the label rolls 14 can still be done manually, for example, using a pallet trolley. In its most advanced form, the delivery of the label rolls 14 can be automated using an automated guided vehicle (AGV).

[0173] Preferably, there is no central control cabinet in robot unit 54. Instead, each module may have its own control unit. This can, for example, improve modularity and facilitate subsequent modifications or retrofits to robot unit 54.

[0174] Preferably, at least one robot 56 is a multi-axis robot, and particularly preferably an articulated arm robot. For example, the articulated arm robot may be a 5-axis, 6-axis, or 7-axis articulated arm robot. Other types of robots are also conceivable, especially when they are industrial robots or collaborative robots.

[0175] At least one robot 56 may be, for example, fixed or capable of movement along a linear axis. Preferably, the robot base of at least one robot 56 can be attached in such a way that it can be easily changed or adapted via an adapter plate. Therefore, different robot types or manufacturers can be advantageously used. Preferably, a simple device (e.g., a pallet trolley) can be used to replace the robot. For example, a robot with a lower payload capacity can be used for customers who only use lightweight label rolls (cost advantage), etc. If the customer wishes to upgrade to a robot with a higher payload capacity, the conversion can therefore be made even simpler. Preferably, the robot control unit (control cabinet) can be configured in such a way that it also does not require modification.

[0176] At least one robot 56 may have a roll manipulation tool 64 for manipulating the label roll 14. The manipulation tool 64 can pick up and drop the label roll 14. Preferably, the manipulation tool 64 can be pneumatically driven.

[0177] The operating tool 64 may be structurally adapted to the tag roll holders 10, 10' such that the operating tool 64 can transfer the tag roll 14 to each tag roll holder 10, 10' as needed. For example, the operating tool 64 may be adapted to the receiving device 12 of each tag roll holder 10, 10'.

[0178] Preferably, the operating tool 64 is designed as a roll holder. Preferably, the roll holder is configured as an inner holder, such as a center holder, for holding each label roll 14 from the inside through the roll core. Furthermore, the roll holder may optionally have a clamping device. The clamping device can secure the internally held label roll 14 from the outside by gently clamping it. Preferably, the clamping device can be used for label rolls 14 with a tendency to stretch, and / or to secure the loose starting end of the strip.

[0179] It is possible to use device 62 to detect the position of each tag roll 14 to be clamped, such as its position on the roll storage device 60.

[0180] Preferably, device 62 can also be used during the commissioning of robot unit 54, for example, to determine the position of one or more components. This advantageously eliminates the need for laborious adjustments and calibrations during commissioning.

[0181] Preferably, at least one robot 56 can be configured to rotate the label roll 14 via an operating tool 64. Preferably, if necessary, the label roll 14 can thus be rotated such that the winding direction of the label roll 14 corresponds to the desired winding direction of each label roll holder 10, 10'.

[0182] Possibly, at least one robot 56 has a strip start-end manipulation tool 66 for manipulating the start end of the strip of the tag roll 14. The start end of the strip of the tag roll 14 received in the tag roll holders 10, 10' can be manipulated by the manipulation tool 66.

[0183] Optionally, the operating tool 66 can cut the starting end of the strip of the label roll 14. Optionally, the operating tool 66 can apply adhesive or tape to the starting end of the strip of the label roll 14. Optionally, the operating tool 66 can detect cutting marks on the label strip 14. The operating tool 66 may also have means for picking up and disposing of the outer strip layer unrolled from the label roll 14.

[0184] Preferably, the operating tool 66 is designed with a gripper. For example, the operating tool 66 may have a bellows suction gripper or clamping device for securely picking up the bellows with the starting end.

[0185] Optionally, at least one robot 56 or robot unit 54 may have a tape dispensing device. The tape dispensing device may be configured to dispense tape, preferably double-sided tape, for attaching label strips. Preferably, when processing label rolls 14 for labeling components, the tape dispensing device may be included on at least one robot 56 or at least in robot unit 54. Preferably, when processing label rolls 14 for label roll storage devices (multi-roll devices), the tape dispensing device may be included in the label roll storage device itself.

[0186] Preferably, at least one robot 56 can automatically change the roll handling tool 64 to the strip start-end handling tool 66 and vice versa. At least one robot 56 may, for example, have an automatic tool changing system, preferably a gripper changing system, for switching between the roll handling tool 64 and the strip start-end handling tool 66. Switching between different sizes and / or versions of the same gripper type is also possible, for example, to facilitate retrofitting.

[0187] Preferably, at least one robot 56 can change the operating tools 64, 66 at the tool changing station in the robot unit 54. Operating tools 64 or 66 not currently being used by at least one robot 56 can be placed at the tool changing station by at least one robot 56. Subsequently, the placed operating tool 64 or 66 can be picked up again from the tool changing station by at least one robot 56 to exchange for another operating tool 64 or 66.

[0188] However, in principle, at least one robot 56 can also serve as a combination gripper to simultaneously carry two operating tools 64, 66.

[0189] It is also possible that at least one robot 56 may have or carry a roll retainer operating tool 68 for operating the label roll retainers 10, 10', for example as the tool alone or as a combined gripper together with operating tool 64 and / or operating tool 66.

[0190] It is possible to include multiple robots 56. One robot 56 may have or carry an operating tool 64 and / or an operating tool 66. Another robot 56 may have or carry a roll retainer operating tool 68.

[0191] Preferably, the robot unit 54 may have a (physical) protective housing 70. Preferably, the protective housing 70 may completely surround the transport frame 36.1, transport frame 36.2, at least one robot 56, assembly station 58, roll storage device 60 and / or device 62. The protective housing 70 may be, for example, rectangular / box-shaped.

[0192] The protective housing 70 may, for example, have a protective fence or a protective wall. Preferably, the protective housing 70 may have at least one door for access to the robot unit 54 or the protective housing 70.

[0193] Preferably, the robot unit 54 may have a system 72 for generating at least one signal curtain. The signal curtain may be, for example, a light curtain or a laser curtain. The signal curtain generated by system 72 may be arranged or generated in such a way that the transport frames 36.1, 36.2, and / or the roll storage device 60 can be accessed from outside the robot unit 54. Preferably, the signal curtain may be generated directly next to (in front of) the transport frames 36.1, 36.2, and the roll storage device 60.

[0194] At least one robot 56 may operate as follows, for example.

[0195] First, at least one robot 56 can use a volume manipulation tool 64 to remove the tag volume 14 from the volume storage device 60.

[0196] At least one robot 56 can move the tag roll 14 to, for example, the device 62. For example, the starting end of the strip of the tag roll 14 can be determined. For example, the winding direction of the tag roll 14 can be verified. If necessary, the tag roll 14 can be rotated, for example, by the robot 56 itself.

[0197] Preferably, at least one robot 56 can then place the inspected and optionally rotated label rolls 14 in a buffer area, such as a separate area of ​​the roll storage device 60, with the starting ends of their strips aligned. Preferably, at least one robot 56 can continuously remove additional (uninspected) label rolls 14 from the roll storage device 60, inspect these label rolls using device 62, and place them in the buffer area with the starting ends of their strips aligned, for example, until the buffer area is sufficiently full.

[0198] Preferably, at least one robot 56 can also use a roll holder manipulator 68 to remove (empty) label roll holders 10, 10' from the transport frame 36.1 and position them in the assembly station 58. If needed, at least one robot 56 can remove empty or opened label rolls 14 from the label roll holders 10, 10' positioned in the assembly station 58. The roll cores can be disposed of. For example, open label rolls that are still usable can be placed in a separate location.

[0199] Preferably, at least one robot 56 can use a roll manipulation tool 64 to position a new label roll 14 with the starting end of the strip correctly oriented in a label roll holder 10, 10' located in an assembly station 58. In principle, the starting end of the strip can even be detected in the label roll holder 10, 10'. However, performing this process earlier has greater technical significance because replacing the label roll 14 is a time-critical process. This also allows for the early removal of "defective" label rolls, in which the starting end of the strip cannot be detected.

[0200] Then, at least one robot 56 may preferably switch to a strip start-end manipulator 66. The strip start-end manipulator 66 can be used to pick up the start end of the strip of label roll 14. Optionally, the outermost layer of the label strip may also be unrolled from label roll 14 and picked up by the strip start-end manipulator 66. Preferably, the picked-up start end of the strip may be fed by at least one robot 56 to a tape dispensing device (e.g., on the robot 56 itself). Here, for example, the correct location for applying adhesive strip can be determined using cutting marks on the label strip, and the adhesive strip can be applied (e.g., only if label roll 14 or label roll holder 10' is provided for roll storage). If the label strip is present, at least one robot 56 may also optionally dispose of the label strip cut and picked up at the strip start-end manipulator 66.

[0201] Ultimately, at least one robot 56 can, for example, switch back to the roll retainer operating tool 68, and, if necessary, shut off the assembled label roll retainers 10, 10', and / or move the label roll retainers to the transport frame 36.2 for further transport.

[0202] Figure 13 For example, in Figure 12 A particularly preferred variation of the label roll holder is assembled in the assembly station. The steps described below can be performed, for example, manually and / or by reference. Figure 12 At least one robot 56 described is executed.

[0203] First, the empty label roll holder 10 can be positioned in the receiving section of the assembly station 58. The label roll holder 10 can be opened. Any used label roll cores can be removed and disposed of.

[0204] In the next step, the new label roll 14 can preferably be inserted into the label roll holder 10 using the roll operation tool 64. The friction drive 42 can pivot into or move generally toward the label roll holder 10. The friction drive 42 can preferably be operated according to step S18 already described (see [link to previous step]). Figure 10 (See related instructions). After inserting the label roll 14 into the label roll holder 10, it is preferable to switch from the roll operation tool 64 to the strip operation tool 66.

[0205] In the next step, the strip handling tool 66 can be used to loosen and pick up the starting end of the strip of the inserted label roll 14. Using the strip handling tool 66, the strip of the inserted label roll 14 can be guided, for example, around at least one deflection element of the label roll holder 10. Preferably, the label strip can also be wound and cut to a certain length in the correct position using the strip handling tool 66. The starting end of the strip of the inserted label roll 14 can be secured to the label roll holder 10.

[0206] In the next step, it is possible to switch back from strip handling tool 66 to roll handling tool 64. Friction drive 42 can be removed, for example, by pivoting it out. The assembled label roll holder 10 can be closed, removed from assembly station 58, and moved away for further use.

[0207] Figures 14 to 16 Portable label roll holder 10 is shown. Figure 14 The label roll holder 10” is fully equipped with label roll 14. Figure 15 The label volume holder 10” is equipped with only one label volume 14. Figure 16 The tag roll holder 10” is currently (illustratively) being fitted with another tag roll 14.

[0208] The label roll holder 10” is exemplarily configured to simultaneously assemble multiple label rolls 14 for a label roll storage device (multi-roll device) of a container labeling device.

[0209] like Figures 14 to 16 As shown, the label roll holder 10” has a plurality of receiving devices 12 and a plurality of strip delivery devices 26. Preferably, in each case, it may include at least five receiving devices 12 and strip delivery devices 26, at least ten receiving devices 12 and strip delivery devices 26, or at least fifteen receiving devices 12 and strip delivery devices 26. Preferably, each (additional) receiving device 12 includes one (additional) strip delivery device 26.

[0210] The receiving device 12 may, for example, each have a disc-shaped body 18 and a collar 74 (in Figure 15 and Figure 16 (Only a portion of it is visible in the text).

[0211] The disc-shaped body 18 can laterally support each attached label roll 14, for example, on the disc-shaped side surface of the label roll 14. The attached label roll 14 can abut against the disc-shaped body 18.

[0212] Preferably, the annular collar 74 can support each label roll 14 on the inner circumferential side of each label roll 14. The label roll 14 can be attached to the collar 74. Preferably, the collar 74 can have a clamping device for each label roll 14, such as a clamping mandrel. The clamping device is capable of internally clamping the core of the label roll 14.

[0213] Preferably, the collar 74 can be arranged coaxially with the central opening 22 of each disc-shaped body 18. The collar 74 is particularly preferably directly adjacent to the central opening 22.

[0214] Preferably, the collar 74 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the disc-shaped body 18. Specifically, the central axis or longitudinal axis of the collar 74 may extend substantially perpendicular to the alignment plane of the disc-shaped body 18.

[0215] The collar 74 may have a width or height that can be selected according to the size of the label roll 14 to be carried. For example, the collar 74 may have a width / height in the range of 30mm to 200mm, such as 30mm, 50mm, 100mm or 200mm.

[0216] For example, the strip delivery device 26 can be configured as in other exemplary embodiments already described herein for the label roll holders 10, 10'. Preferably, the strip delivery devices 26 can be arranged side by side in a row, preferably aligned with each other. Preferably, the strip delivery devices 26 can be arranged on the upper side of the label roll holder 10'.

[0217] Preferably, the label roll holder 10” may also include, for example, a spindle 76 and / or a storage box frame 80.

[0218] The receiving device 12 can be attached side-by-side to the mandrel 76 along with each received tag roll 14. For example, the mandrel 76 can extend through the collar 74 and / or the central opening 22 of the receiving device 12. The receiving devices 12 can be arranged side-by-side on the mandrel 76, preferably coaxially and / or aligned with each other. It is possible, for example, in the case of unstable tag rolls 14 (e.g., width <30 mm), that each tag roll 14 is additionally stabilized by the disc-shaped body 18 of the adjacent receiving device 12.

[0219] like Figure 16 As illustrated in the example, an operating tool 78, which can be carried by a robot, can operate the receiving device 12 to pick up the tag roll 14. For example, the operating tool 78 can hold the receiving device 12 through the disc-shaped body 18 and / or the central opening 22. The receiving device 12 can then be attached to the mandrel 76 along with the received tag roll 14 using the operating tool 78. There, the operating tool 78 can be released from the receiving device 12 and then used, for example, to assemble the attached receiving device 12 and the tag roll 14 received thereon onto the mandrel 76.

[0220] The receiving device 12 can be rotatably mounted on the mandrel 76. Preferably, a swivel bearing can be arranged between the mandrel 76 and each receiving device 12. The swivel bearing can be supported on the mandrel 76. The swivel bearing can preferably be releasably attached to the mandrel 76 by force fit, surface fit, and / or integral connection. The swivel bearing can be constructed, for example, as a rolling bearing, such as a deep groove ball bearing.

[0221] Preferably, the rotary bearings can be attached to the spindle 76 at different distances, for example, to enable use with receivers 12 of different sizes. Additionally or alternatively, rotary bearings of different sizes (widths) can also be attached to the spindle 76, for example, to enable use with receivers 12 of different sizes.

[0222] Preferably, the receiving device 12 of the label roll holder 10” does not have its own rotating bearing for connection to the spindle 76. This advantageously allows for a simpler construction of the receiving device 12.

[0223] The receiving device 12 attached to the mandrel 76 can be operated, for example by a robot, in such a way that the starting end of the strip of each received tag roll 14 is prepared and secured to a given strip delivery device 26 (see, for example...). Figure 15 This process can, for example, be related to the reference. Figures 10 to 13The process described is the same. For example, a friction wheel drive can be used to drive each label roll 14 and / or receiving device 12 to rotate.

[0224] Preferably, the mandrel 76 can be horizontally aligned. For example, the longitudinal axis of the mandrel 76 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the label roll holder 10” or the storage box frame 80.

[0225] The spindle 76 may be supported, for example, on the storage cartridge frame 80. Preferably, the spindle 76 is supported only on one side of the storage cartridge frame 80. The spindle 76 may have a free end through which the receiving device 12 may be attached.

[0226] The storage box frame 80 can be configured as a storage box receiving portion for assembling a roll storage device. The storage box frame 80 is preferably an open frame. For example, the storage box may be open on at least one lateral side, allowing the mandrel 76 to be fitted with the receiving device 12 and the tag roll 14.

[0227] The storage box frame 80 preferably supports the receiving device 12, the strip delivery device 26, and the mandrel 76. For example, the storage box frame 80 can support the strip delivery device 26 above the receiving device 12.

[0228] For example, the storage box frame 80 may have an elongated, preferably straight, support member 82. The longitudinal axis of the support member 82 may preferably be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mandrel 76 or the label roll holder 10”. Preferably, the strip delivery device 26 may be supported side by side on the elongated support member 82.

[0229] As already mentioned, the label roll holder 10” is preferably used for mounting a roll storage device. For this purpose, positioning elements (e.g., two positioning elements) can preferably be arranged on the storage cassette frame 80, which cooperate with positioning elements on the roll storage device to position the label roll holder 10” in or on the roll storage device. The positioning elements may include, for example, a centering mandrel and / or a centering sleeve. Each roll storage device may, for example, have space for one or two label roll holders 10” or storage cassette frame 80”. If space exists for more than one label roll holder 10”, one of the label roll holders 10” can be operated to dispense labels.

[0230] The storage box frame 80 or label roll holder 10” can be transported to the roll storage device by, for example, an automated guided vehicle (AGV) or any other transport vehicle. For example, an AGV can transport two fully assembled storage box frames 80 / label roll holders 10”. Preferably, two roll storage devices can be assembled per trip. The label roll holder 10” can be placed, for example, on the transport platform of the AGV. The transport platform can be raised and lowered, for example, for receiving and / or transporting the label roll holder 10”.

[0231] refer to Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figure 8 and Figure 9 Example portable label roll holders 10 and 10' have been described, which can be used with transport frame 36 (see, for example, see...). Figures 4 to 7 Group transport. (Refer to...) Figures 14 to 16 The example portable label roll holder 10 is described, which itself has a (storage box) frame 80, which can also be advantageously used for transporting the label roll holder 10.

[0232] The following is for reference. Figures 17 to 21 Description of transport frames 36, 80 and label roll holders 10, 10', 10 (for clarity, in) Figures 17 to 21 Preferred techniques (not included separately as reference numerals in the accompanying drawings).

[0233] Generally, label roll holders 10, 10' can be transported back and forth on frame 36, or label roll holder 10" can be transported back and forth between the locations where they are fitted with label rolls 14 and the container labeling device in different ways together with its frame 80. As already mentioned, automated guided vehicles such as automated forklifts or mobile platforms can be used for this purpose. For example, automated guided vehicles can follow a predetermined path controlled by a line or operate using a laser guidance system.

[0234] Using automated forklifts, for example, frames 36 and 80 can be transported on the forks. The picking and placing of frames 36 and 80 can be performed automatically by automated guided vehicles.

[0235] When the mobile platform is used as an automated guided vehicle, it may preferably have a lifting device for picking up objects (e.g., trays or frames 36, 80). Alternatively or additionally, the mobile platform may, for example, have a mechanical interface for picking up and securing interchangeable equipment (e.g., top units / accessories), configured to, for example, hold one or more frames 36, 80. Possibly, the mobile platform has a media supply device that may, for example, utilize electrical energy, mechanical drive energy, signals, and / or compressed air to power the interchangeable equipment. Preferably, the mobile platform may have a traveling mechanism with a swing axis to compensate for uneven ground.

[0236] The advantages of a mobile platform (especially when moving within a production line) are that it requires very little space and offers good maneuverability, even when the frames 36 and 80 are positioned on the platform.

[0237] The advantage of being able to pick up two frames 80 on the mobile platform is evident, for example, when switching the frames at the volume storage device. To switch them, another frame 80 with an empty core must be removed from the volume storage device before the prepared storage cartridge can be transferred to it. If the empty frame 80 is removed first, this can be done in a single pass. The mobile platform can then, for example, turn around and transfer the prepared frame 80 to the volume storage device.

[0238] It is also conceivable that frames 36 and 80 are transported manually by people using pallet trucks (e.g., manual pallet trucks) or forklifts.

[0239] Figure 17 The example illustrates how an automated guided vehicle 84 can pick up assembled frames 36, 80. The automated guided vehicle 84 can, for example, be constructed as a mobile platform with a lifting device 86. Frames 36, 80 can be supported on the ground by support columns. The transport vehicle 84 can travel beneath frames 36, 80 with the lifting device 86 lowered. The lifting device 86 can raise itself to drive beneath frames 36, 80, causing the support columns to rise off the ground, and transporting the raised frames 36, 80.

[0240] Figure 18The example illustrates how an automated guided vehicle 84 can pick up assembled frames 36, 80. The automated guided vehicle 84 can, for example, be constructed as a mobile platform with a lifting device 86. Frames 36, 80 can be detachably placed on fixed support columns, which in turn support the ground. The transport vehicle 84 can travel beneath frames 36, 80 with the lifting device 86 lowered. The lifting device 86 can raise itself to drive beneath frames 36, 80, causing frames 36, 80 to rise away from the support columns, and transport the raised frames 36, 80. During transport, the lifting device 86 can be lowered if necessary to increase stability and robustness.

[0241] Figure 19 The example illustrates how an automated guided vehicle 84 can pick up assembled frames 36, 80. The automated guided vehicle 84 can be constructed, for example, as a mobile platform with a lifting device 86. An operating device 88, for example, in the form of a top unit / attachment, can be coupled to the lifting device 86. If desired, a medium connection can be established from the guided vehicle 84 to the operating device 88 for supplying power, compressed air, signals, etc. The operating device 88 can be equipped with actuators, sensors, and automation devices, and thus can perform movement. Frames 36, 80 can be lifted, for example, by using the lifting device 86 or by an integrated actuator in the operating device 88. For example, frames 36, 80 can be additionally pivoted upwards using the operating device 88. Preferably, frames 36, 80 can be pivoted upwards by 180° via a drive mechanism of the operating device 88 for transport. During transport, the lifting device 86 can be lowered if desired to increase stability and robustness.

[0242] Figure 20 A variation of an automated guided vehicle 84 with an operating device 88 capable of picking up multiple frames 36, 80 is illustrated by way of example. Preferably, the frames 36, 80 can be picked up by the operating device 88 at the end face of the automated guided vehicle 84. For example, frames 36, 80 can be picked up at the front end face (front) of the automated guided vehicle 84, and another frame 36, 80 can be picked up at the rear end face (rear) of the automated guided vehicle 84.

[0243] Figure 21 An example illustrates an automated guided vehicle 84 with an operating device 88 that can lower one or more frames 36, 80 onto a platform of the automated guided vehicle 84 by pivoting them parallel to the ground (or vice versa). This technology can function in a similar manner to that used for skip containers in pivoting trucks.

[0244] refer to Figures 22 to 25 The following describes a preferred technique for assembling an automated container labeling device 90, which may utilize label roll holders 10, 10', and 10" described as examples. However, it is also possible, for example, to manually assemble the label roll holders 10, 10', and 10" for the container labeling device 90, using a pallet trolley, such as a manual pallet trolley.

[0245] The container labeling equipment 90 includes a labeling component 92. The labeling component 92 can, for example, use self-adhesive labels, cold-glue labels, or roll labels to label the containers. The labeling component 92 is preferably coupled to the container conveyor of the container labeling equipment 90. Figures 22 to 25 (Not shown in the image), preferably a rotary container conveyor. The container conveyor may, for example, have a plurality of rotatable container receiving portions (e.g., container turntables) for containers, which may be arranged, for example, around the circumference of the rotary container conveyor. The container receiving portions together with the containers received therein or on them can move past a labeling assembly 92 (and optional additional labeling assemblies 92). The labeling assembly 92 may, for example, be arranged around the periphery of the rotary container conveyor.

[0246] Container labeling equipment 90 may be included in a container handling facility. Relative to the container flow, container labeling equipment 90 may be arranged downstream or upstream of filling equipment for filling containers (e.g., with liquid or paste media) and / or sealing equipment for sealing containers (e.g., with caps, corks, crown caps, or screw caps).

[0247] like Figure 22 As shown in the example, the labeling assembly 92 may have its own label roll holder receiver 94. The label roll holder receiver 94 may receive the assembled label roll holder 10'. This allows the label roll holder 10' to assemble the label roll 14 for the container labeling device 90 to dispense label strips to the container labeling device 90 for labeling the container.

[0248] Alternative locations, such as Figures 23 to 25 As shown in the example, the container labeling device 90 may additionally have a (label) roll storage device 96. The roll storage device 96 may be connected to the labeling assembly 92 to dispense label strips to the labeling assembly 92. The roll storage device 96 may have multiple label roll holder reception sections 98 for multiple label roll holders 10 (see [reference]). Figure 23 ) and / or at least one label roll holder receiving portion 100 for at least one label roll holder 10” (see Figure 24 and Figure 25The label roll holder receiving portion 98 of the roll storage device 96 can receive the assembled label roll holder 10. The label roll holder 10” can be received in the label roll holder receiving portion 100. This allows the label roll holder 10 or 10” to be used to assemble (at least) a label roll 14 for the container labeling device 90 to dispense label strips to the container labeling device 90 for labeling the container.

[0249] It goes without saying that the shape of the label roll holder receiving portion 94 can preferably be adapted to the shape of the label roll holder 10', the shape of the label roll holder receiving portion 98 can be adapted to the shape of the label roll holder 10, and the shape of the label roll holder receiving portion 100 can be adapted to the shape of the label roll holder 10”. For example, the mating (interlocking) positioning element can be included on the label roll holders 10, 10', 10” on one hand, and on the label roll holder receiving portions 94, 98, or 100 on the other hand.

[0250] Preferably, the container labeling device 90 is equipped with label roll holders 10, 10', 10' by a mobile or stationary robot 102 and / or by an automated guided vehicle 84. The advantages of the mobile robot 102 or the automated guided vehicle 84 are particularly the added flexibility and the ability to assemble multiple roll storage units 96 placed spaced apart from each other. The advantages of the stationary robot 102 are particularly the more cost-effective solution, simpler safety features, and higher process reliability (the path of the mobile robot 102 may be obstructed). Other advantages of the stationary robot 102 may include the fact that it does not have the travel time of a mobile robot, which reduces the time spent on roll changes, and that it does not require the repeated adjustments (measurements) of the articulated robot after each trip, as is possible with a mobile robot.

[0251] Robot 102 is preferably a multi-axis robot, and particularly preferably an articulated arm robot. For example, the articulated arm robot may be a 5-axis, 6-axis, or 7-axis articulated arm robot. Other types of robots are also conceivable, especially when they are industrial robots or collaborative robots. Preferably, robot 102 can pick up assembled label roll holders 10, 10', 10" from a storage device (e.g., a tray, transport frame, or automated guided vehicle) and convey them to label roll holder receiving sections 94, 98, or 100. Preferably, robot 102 can also remove unwanted label roll holders 10, 10', 10" or those whose label rolls 14 are used up from label roll holder receiving sections 94, 98, or 100 and move them to the storage device (e.g., a tray, transport frame, or automated guided vehicle) and place them down.

[0252] Specifically, Figure 22It is shown that, for example, a stationary robot 102 can pick up an assembled label roll holder 10' from a tray and convey it to the label roll holder receiving section 94 of the labeling assembly 92. Preferably, the robot 102 can also remove label roll holders 10' that are no longer needed or whose label rolls 14 are used up from the label roll holder receiving section 94, move them to the tray and place them down.

[0253] Figure 23 The inserts of the label roll holder receiving portion 98, including the roll storage device 96, are shown in detail. These inserts can be opened by the robot 102 or by an actuator of the roll storage device 96. The roll storage device 96 may have multiple inserts, each with at least one label roll holder receiving portion 98. Label roll holders 10 with used label rolls 14 can be removed from the label roll holder receiving portion 98 of the opened insert by the robot 102. The removed label roll holders 10 can be placed in the transport frame 36 by the robot 102. The robot 102 can also pick up newly assembled label roll holders 10 from the transport frame 36 and position them in the label roll holder receiving portion 98 of the roll storage device 96. For example, positioning elements (e.g., centering bolts) on the label roll holder receiving portion 98 of the label roll holder 10 can ensure the desired alignment of the label roll holder 10. It is possible to replace the label roll holders 10 during production.

[0254] Robot 102 can equip at least one additional tag roll storage device with tag roll holder 10. Figure 23 (Not shown in the image). For example, robot 102 can be positioned between tag volume storage device 96 and another tag volume storage device.

[0255] Alternatively, robot 102 may be a mobile robot, such as an articulated arm robot unit that serves as an attachment or top unit. The mobile robot 102 could then, for example, sequentially travel to multiple volume storage devices 96 and assemble them with tag volume holders 10.

[0256] Each roll storage device 96 may include multiple (e.g., eight or ten) tag roll holder receptions 98 (e.g., in / on a corresponding insert). Therefore, during each assembly process, new, assembled tag roll holders 10 can be assembled for multiple (e.g., seven or nine) tag roll holder receptions 98 each time during production. This can, for example, reduce travel time and assembly time.

[0257] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the transport frame 36 is equipped with automated guided vehicles (e.g., vehicle 84, see below). Figures 17 to 21The robot 102 picks up the tag roll holder 10 from the transport frame 36 on the automated guided vehicle. Optionally, the automated guided vehicle may travel sequentially with the robot 102 to multiple roll storage devices 96 to assemble the tag roll holder 10 for them.

[0258] Figure 24 The automated guided vehicle 84 is shown in detail to be able to assemble the label roll holder 10 of the roll storage device 96 into the label roll holder receiver 100. The automated transport device 84 can, for example, employ a... Figure 24 The form of the automated forklift shown is shown.

[0259] Alternatively, the automated guided vehicle 84 can be constructed as, for example, a mobile platform (see, for example, see...). Figures 17 to 21 For example, it has already been referenced. Figure 19 The automated guided vehicle 84, described and constructed as a mobile platform, can first raise its lifting device to transport the assembled tag roll holder 10", then pivot downwards (optionally) to travel into the roll storage unit 96, and transport the assembled tag roll holder to the tag roll holder receiving section 100 of the roll storage unit 96. For example, the fixing mechanism between the storage box frame 80 and the mobile platform can also be released, and the lifting device of the mobile platform can be lowered.

[0260] It is possible that when replacing the label roll holder 10” on the label roll holder receiving section 100, the previously used label roll holder 10” with an empty roll core may be removed from the roll storage device 96, for example by an automated guided vehicle 84, before the newly assembled label roll holder 10” can be transferred to the label roll holder receiving section 100.

[0261] It is also possible that alternatives, such as those mentioned in the reference, are available. Figure 23 The described insert, the roll storage device 96, may have two or more tag roll holder reception sections 100 configured as docking stations, each for one tag roll holder 10". Each docking station / tag roll holder reception section 100 may be configured to receive and position one tag roll holder 10". For example, an automated guided vehicle 84 can thus be used to replace the tag roll holder 10" while processing tag strips from another tag roll holder 10" without downtime. Therefore, production is not interrupted.

[0262] Preferably, the label roll holder 10” can be positioned on the label roll holder receiving portion 100 such that the prepared strip start end (for gluing the end of the used roll strip to the prepared strip start end) is within the required tolerance, so that production can continue without interruption.

[0263] Preferably, tolerances are maintained when picking up the tag roll holder 10”, taking into account the positioning accuracy of the automated guided vehicle 84, the positioning accuracy and positioning height of any existing lifting device of the roll storage device 96, and the unevenness of the ground. Regarding the height of the tag roll holder 10” in the roll storage device 96, the tag roll holder can be positioned, for example, by lifting movement of the lifting device of the roll storage device 96. For example, alignment of the tag roll holder 10” can be achieved by engaging the alignment elements on the tag roll holder 10” and on the tag roll holder receiving portion 100 and / or the lifting device of the roll storage device 96 (these alignment elements are inserted, for example, during transport).

[0264] Figure 24 The example illustrates how the assembled label roll holder 10” and its at least one positioning element 104 interlock with at least one positioning element 106 of the label roll holder receiver 100 of the roll storage device 96. The label roll holder 10” can be pre-placed on the ground or on the frame of the roll storage device 96, for example, using an automated guided vehicle. Preferably, the label roll holder 10” can be raised by the lifting device 108 of the roll storage device 96. Preferably, the positioning elements 104, 106 can be interlocked. Once the label roll holder 10” is finally positioned and aligned as needed, it can be connected between the starting end of the strip of the label strip in one of the label rolls 14 of the label roll holder 10” and the ending end of the strip currently in production via the removal slider 110 of the roll storage device 96.

[0265] This invention is not limited to the preferred exemplary embodiments described above. Instead, various variations and modifications are possible, which also utilize the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims, regardless of the claims they refer to. Specifically, each feature of independent claim 1 is disclosed independently of the others. Furthermore, features of the dependent claims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1, and for example, independently of features of independent claim 1 concerning the presence and / or configuration of the receiving device and / or strip delivery device. All scopes specified herein should be understood to be disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the relevant scope are disclosed individually, for example, also as narrower outer limits of the relevant preferred scope.

[0266] List of reference numerals

[0267] 10 Portable Label Roll Holder

[0268] 12 Receiving Device

[0269] 14-Tag Volume

[0270] 14A Label Strip

[0271] 16 Rotary bearings

[0272] 18. Disc-shaped main body

[0273] 20 racks

[0274] 22. Center opening

[0275] 24 Locking elements

[0276] 24A First End

[0277] 24B Second End

[0278] 26-strip delivery device

[0279] 28 Fixing elements

[0280] 30 Deflection element

[0281] 32 Pressing element

[0282] 32A Brush Section

[0283] 34. Shell

[0284] 34A Double-walled housing section 92 stickers

[0285] 34B Adjustable access opening

[0286] 34C driver access opening

[0287] 36. Transportation Frame

[0288] 38 Positioning elements

[0289] 40 Positioning elements

[0290] 42 Friction drive device

[0291] 44 Marks

[0292] 46. ​​Camera equipment

[0293] 48 Clamping device

[0294] 50. Device for removing adhesive strips

[0295] 52 Adhesive Cutting Device

[0296] 54 Robot Units

[0297] 56 robots

[0298] 58 Assembly Station

[0299] 60-roll storage device

[0300] 62 devices

[0301] 64-volume operating tools

[0302] 66-strip starter operation tool

[0303] 68-roll retainer operating tool

[0304] 70 Protective Housing

[0305] 72 System

[0306] 74 rings

[0307] 76 spindles

[0308] 78 Operating Tools

[0309] 80 Storage Box Frame

[0310] 82 Slender support member

[0311] 84 Automated Guided Vehicles

[0312] 86 Lifting device

[0313] 88 Operating Device

[0314] 90 Container Labeling Equipment

[0315] 92 Labeling Components

[0316] 94 Tag Roll Holder Receiving Section

[0317] 96 (label) volume storage devices

[0318] 98 Tag Roll Holder Receiving Section

[0319] 100 Label Roll Holder Receiving Section

[0320] 102 robots

[0321] 104 Positioning Elements

[0322] 106 Positioning elements

[0323] 108 Lifting Device

[0324] 110 Remove the slider

[0325] D1 (Deflection element) Rotation axis

[0326] S1 (locking element) pivot axis

[0327] S2 (Pressing element) Pivot axis

[0328] S3 (Strip Delivery Device) Pivot Axis

Claims

1. A portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') for mounting a container labeling device (90) to dispense label strips (14A) to the container labeling device (90), wherein the label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') comprises: A receiving device (12) is configured to receive a tag roll (14), preferably by attaching the tag roll, and the received tag roll (14) can be unfolded from the receiving device; and A strip delivery device (26) for delivering a label strip (14A) unwound from a received label roll (14) to the container labeling device (90).

2. The portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 1, wherein: In order to unfold the received tag roll (14), the receiving device (12) is rotatably mounted, preferably on the housing (34) of the portable tag roll holder (10, 10') or on the spindle (76) of the portable tag roll holder (10").

3. The portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the receiving device (12) comprises: A disc-shaped body (18) is used to laterally support the received tag roll (14). And / or The tag roll (14) can be attached to a collar (74), or the tag roll (14) can be attached to a plurality of carriers (20).

4. The portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10'') according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The disc-shaped body (18) has a central opening (22), and the collar (74) or the plurality of carriers (20) are arranged coaxially with the central opening (22), preferably adjacent to the central opening (22); The portable label roll holder (10) also includes a movable, preferably pivotable locking element (24), which is elastically pre-tensioned to lock the disc-shaped body (18); and The collar (74) or the carrier (20) has a clamping device for clamping the core of the label roll (14) from the inside.

5. The portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable label roll holder further comprises: At least one preferably conical positioning element (38, 104) is used to position the portable label roll holder (10) in or on the transport frame (36) or in or on the label roll holder receiving portion (98, 100) of the container labeling device (90).

6. The portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10'') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The strip delivery device (26) is configured to deflect the unfolded label strip (14A), preferably at least 90°; and / or The strip delivery device (26) includes: - A fixing element (28), preferably a clamping strip, for securing the starting end of the strip of the received tag roll (14) to the outside of the portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10''); and / or - A deflecting element (30), preferably a deflecting roller, for deflecting the unfolded label strip (14A); and a movable, preferably pivotable pressing element (32), preferably a brush-like element, said pressing element being elastically pre-tensioned to press the unfolded label strip (14A) against, preferably brush against, said deflecting element (30).

7. The portable label roll holder (10, 10') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable label roll holder further comprises: The housing (34), the receiving device (12) and the strip delivery device (26) are housed in or on the housing.

8. The portable tag roll holder (10, 10') according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: The strip delivery device (26) is movably, preferably pivotally, connected to the housing (34). The housing (34) forms a box for the label roll (14), preferably a box that can be opened; The housing (34) has an adjustment access opening (34B) for adjusting the pressing element (32) of the strip delivery device (26) in the housing (34). The housing (34) has a drive access opening (34C) leading to the receiving device (12) and / or to the receiving space for the received tag roll (14), for applying a friction wheel to the receiving device (12) and / or the received tag roll (14) to rotate the received tag roll (14).

9. The portable label roll holder (10'') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable label roll holder further comprises: At least one additional receiving device (12), preferably at least four, at least nine or at least fourteen additional receiving devices (12), said at least one additional receiving device being constructed in a manner similar to said receiving device (12); At least one additional strip delivery device (26) for the at least one additional receiving device (12), preferably at least four, at least nine or at least fourteen additional strip delivery devices (26), wherein the at least one additional strip delivery device (26) is constructed in a manner similar to the strip delivery device (26); Preferably: The receiving device (12) and the at least one additional receiving device (12) are arranged side by side, preferably coaxially and / or aligned with each other; and / or The strip delivery device (26) and the at least one additional strip delivery device (26) are arranged side by side, preferably aligned with each other.

10. The portable label roll holder (10'') according to claim 9, wherein the portable label roll holder further comprises: The mandrel (76) is such that the receiving device (12) and the at least one additional receiving device (12) can be received side by side on the mandrel, preferably by attachment, and preferably each receiving device (12) is provided with a rotary bearing on the mandrel (76).

11. The portable label roll holder (10'') according to any one of the preceding claims, the portable label roll holder further comprising: Storage box frame (80) supporting the receiving device (12), the at least one additional receiving device (12), the strip delivery device (26) and the at least one additional strip delivery device (26). Preferably: The storage box frame (80) supports the receiving device (12) and the at least one additional receiving device (12) via a mandrel (76), the mandrel preferably being supported only on one side of the storage box frame (80); and / or The storage box frame (80) supports the strip delivery device (26) and the at least one additional strip delivery device (26) on the upper side of the storage box frame (80) and / or on the elongated support (82) of the storage box frame (80).

12. A container labeling device (90), the container labeling device comprising: Labeling component (92), wherein: -The labeling assembly (92) has a label roll holder receiving portion (94), or - The container labeling device (90) further includes a label roll storage device (96), which includes a label roll holder receiving portion (98, 100); and The portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') according to any one of the preceding claims is received in or on the label roll holder receiving portion (94, 98, 100) for dispensing a label strip (14A) to the labeling assembly (92) for labeling the container.

13. A method for supplying at least one label roll (14) to a container labeling device (90), wherein the method comprises: A portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') is provided according to any one of claims 1 to 11. Preferably, at least one tag roll (14) is assembled into the portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10'') by a robot (56). Preferably, the assembled portable label roll holders (10, 10', 10'') are transported to the container labeling equipment (90) by an automated guided vehicle (84); and Preferably, the container labeling device (90) is automatically equipped with a portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'').

14. The method of claim 13, wherein assembling the portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') comprises at least one of the following: Preferably, the robot (56) checks the winding direction of the at least one label roll (14) and aligns the at least one label roll (14) based on the checked winding direction. Preferably, the label roll holder (10, 10') is opened by the robot (56) and preferably unfolded to position the at least one label roll (14) in the label roll holder (10, 10'); Preferably, the robot (56) receives the at least one tag roll (14) onto the receiving device (12) of the portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10''), preferably by attaching the at least one tag roll; Preferably, the robot (56) detects the starting end of the strip of the at least one tag roll (14) and cuts off the starting end of the strip; After positioning the at least one tag roll (14) in the tag roll holder (10, 10'), the tag roll holder (10, 10') is preferably closed, preferably folded and closed, by the robot (56); and Preferably, the robot (56) secures the starting end of the strip of at least one tag roll (14) already received in the portable tag roll holder (10, 10', 10'') at a predetermined position on the strip delivery device (26).

15. The method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein assembling the assembled portable label roll holder (10, 10', 10'') for the container labeling device (90) comprises at least one of the following: The label roll holders (10, 10', 10'') are interlocked with at least one positioning element (106) of the label roll holder receiving portion (94, 98, 100) to align the label roll holders (10, 10', 10'') with the label roll holder receiving portion (94, 98, 100) of the container labeling device (90); and The label roll holder (10”) is lifted by the lifting device (108) of the container labeling equipment (90).

Images