Label pressing device with safety function

Abstract

The invention relates to a labeler (10) for applying at least one label (12) to at least one product (7) with a pressure device (13), a packaging machine (1), in particular a thermoforming packaging machine (2) or tray sealer (3), with a labeler (10), or a method for applying at least one label (12) to at least one product (7) with a labeler (10) that has a pressure device (13). The pressure device (13) of the labeler (10) has a housing (14) which has a suction surface (16) on a suction side (15) to which the label (12) can be drawn. The suction surface (16) has an opening (17) through which at least one pressure element (18) can be guided. The pressure device (13) further comprises a pneumatic drive (22) configured to move the pressure element (18) between a starting position and a pressure position.The pneumatic actuator (22) has a pneumatic cylinder (23) for transmitting a transmission force (Fü) from the pneumatic actuator (22) to the pressure element (18). The pneumatic actuator (22) has at least one adjustable pressure control valve (24) for controlling a pressure force (F). A ) of the pressure element (18).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a labeler for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressing device, a packaging machine, in particular a thermoforming packaging machine or tray sealer, with a labeler for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressing device or a method for applying at least one label to at least one product with a labeler having a pressing device. State of the art

[0002] Labelers can be considered devices that apply labels to objects and preferably also create the labels and / or simplify these processes. For example, EP 2 974 972 A1 discloses labelers for use in conjunction with packaging machines. The packages produced by the packaging machine can be automatically provided with appropriate labels by the labeler. The labels can be printed shortly before application by a printing device of the labeler.

[0003] DE 102 28 243 A1 discloses a transfer device configured for lowering labels onto an object to be labeled. For this purpose, a slide plate assembly is lowered from a suction box in a lifting motion. The lifting motion and the necessary force are generated by a pneumatic cylinder. When lowering the labels, there is a risk of injury if a person's limbs accidentally or unknowingly come between the object to be labeled and the transfer device.

[0004] DE 10 2019 214 426 A1 proposes a labeller in which a connection between a drive and a label pressing element can be separated if a person's limbs come between the object to be labelled and the label pressing element. Task

[0005] Based on the known prior art, the technical problem to be solved is to provide a labeler for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressing device, a packaging machine, in particular a thermoforming packaging machine or tray sealer, with a labeler for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressing device, or a method for applying at least one label to at least one product with a labeler having a pressing device, which reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. Ideally, a standstill of the labeler or an interruption of the process required due to a hazard or imminent injury to an operator should be avoided or at least reduced. Solution

[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention by a labeler for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressing device according to claim 1, a packaging machine, in particular a thermoforming packaging machine or tray sealer, with a labeler according to claim 9 or a method for applying at least one label to at least one product with a labeler having a pressing device according to claim 10.

[0007] Advantageous further developments of the invention are covered in the subclaims.

[0008] One aspect of the invention relates to a labeler for applying at least one label to at least one product using a pressing device. The pressing device comprises a housing having a suction surface on a suction side, to which the label can be sucked. The suction surface has an opening through which at least one pressing element can be guided. The pressing device further comprises a pneumatic drive configured to displace the pressing element between a starting position and a pressing position. The pneumatic drive comprises a pneumatic cylinder for transmitting a transmission force from the pneumatic drive to the pressing element. The pneumatic drive comprises at least one adjustable pressure control valve for controlling a pressing force of the pressing element. This allows the pressing force of the pressing element to be easily and precisely regulated.This reduces the risk of injury to a person, especially to a labeler operator, due to excessive pressure, and improves occupational safety. Optionally, a labeler shutdown, which may be necessary due to a hazard or imminent injury to the operator, can be avoided or at least reduced.

[0009] Packaging in particular can be considered products. The label can be applied to the product using an adhesive, for example. The pressing device can be configured to suck one or more labels onto the suction surface by means of the opening. A negative pressure can be generated in the housing, which can serve to suck the at least one label onto the suction surface. Areas through which a gas, preferably air, can flow into and / or out of the housing can be considered openings. Holes made in conveying means, such as conveyor belts or bands, or spaces between such conveying means can particularly advantageously be understood as openings. Spaces between a conveying means and a housing wall can also be considered openings. The labeler can be designed to apply one or more labels to one or more products simultaneously.

[0010] A pressing position can be considered a positioning of the pressing element in which the label is pressed against a product by the pressing element. A starting position can be considered a positioning of the pressing element from which the pressing element is moved into the pressing position. After pressing, the pressing element can be moved back to the starting position. The pressing element can be a pressing plate. Arrangements with several plates are particularly advantageous. More complex plate assemblies, such as the one disclosed in EP 3 495 280 A1, are also conceivable. It is conceivable for the pressing element to extend completely within the housing in the starting position and to extend through the opening in the suction surface in the pressing position.

[0011] To move the pressure element between the starting position and the pressing position, the pneumatic drive can have a transmission device, such as a belt drive, a coupling gear, or a slotted guide. The transmission device can be configured to direct a force applied by the pneumatic drive in a desired direction and / or to increase or decrease it at a desired transmission ratio. For example, the pneumatic cylinder can transmit the transmission force from the pneumatic drive to a transmission device connected to the pressure element in order to move the pressure element.

[0012] The pneumatic cylinder can in particular be double-acting, i.e. have two compressed air connections, in particular a transmission force build-up connection and a transmission force reduction connection, which can supply the pneumatic cylinder, in particular a system consisting of a piston with a piston rod, with compressed air alternately from two sides. The build-up of the transmission force of the pneumatic cylinder can be controlled by supplying compressed air to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to a transmission force build-up chamber, via the transmission force build-up connection. At the same time, compressed air can be withdrawn from a transmission force reduction chamber via the transmission force reduction connection. The reduction of the transmission force of the pneumatic cylinder can be controlled by supplying compressed air to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the transmission force reduction chamber, via the transmission force reduction connection.At the same time, compressed air can be extracted from the transmission force build-up chamber via the transmission force build-up connection. Optionally, the pneumatic cylinder can be equipped with adjustable end-of-stroke cushioning on both sides. This allows the build-up and release of the transmission force on the pneumatic cylinder to be controlled easily and efficiently. Ideally, the service life or durability of the labeler, especially the pneumatic cylinder, can be increased.

[0013] The adjustable pressure control valve can regulate, in particular reduce, limit, and / or compensate for pressure fluctuations in the pneumatic actuator. The pressure control valve can be adjusted such that an inlet pressure flowing in on an inlet side is limited to an outlet pressure predefined in the pressure control valve, which flows out of the pressure control valve on an outlet side. Optionally, the pressure control valve can counteract pressure peaks and thereby increase the service life or durability of the pneumatic actuator. Ideally, the pressure control valve can be used to achieve simple and precise control of the pressure element, in particular the pressure force of the pressure element.

[0014] The transmission of the transmission force of the pneumatic drive by means of the pneumatic cylinder to the pressure element can be subject to losses due to various influences, particularly friction. Consequently, it may be desirable for the transmission force of the pneumatic drive or the pneumatic cylinder to be greater than the pressure force of the pressure element in order to achieve a predetermined pressure force of the pressure element. For example, the transmission force can be at least approximately 3%, preferably at least approximately 5%, greater than the pressure force. The transmission force can be at most approximately 7%, preferably at most approximately 10%, greater than the pressure force.

[0015] The above-mentioned components (pressure control valve, pneumatic cylinder) and the following components (directional control valve, pneumatic energy source, treatment unit) can be connected via compressed air lines with a constant pressure. Multiple compressed air lines can have the same pressure or different pressures. For example, the compressed air line can be designed to carry compressed air of at least approximately 5 bar, preferably at least approximately 7 bar. The compressed air line can be designed to carry compressed air of at most approximately 10 bar, preferably at most approximately 8 bar.

[0016] The labeler or pneumatic drive can be controlled by a control device. This can optionally be integrated into the control system of a packaging machine, in particular a thermoforming packaging machine or a tray sealer. Sensors arranged on the labeler, for example displacement sensors, can detect information about the displacement of the pressing element, in particular its position relative to the starting position and the pressing position, and send it to the control device. Force and / or pressure sensors can detect information about the transmission force and / or pressing force and / or the compressed air pressure on components of the pneumatic drive and send it to the control device. Based on this sensor information, the control device can control the labeler or pneumatic drive, in particular the directional control valve and / or the pressure control valve.The sensor information can optionally be displayed via a display device, for example to indicate to the operator an operating status of the labeler, in particular faults in the labeler, for example a pressure drop.

[0017] Preferably, the pressing force is at most 135 N. This can reduce the risk of operator injury and improve occupational safety. The pressing force of the pressing element can depend on the type of product and / or label. Furthermore, the pressing force can be influenced by the duration of the label's pressing against the product. Optionally, the pressing force can be at most approximately 120 N, preferably at most approximately 100 N. The pressing force can be at least approximately 70 N, preferably at least approximately 90 N.

[0018] The pressure regulating valve is preferably arranged between the pneumatic cylinder and a directional control valve, wherein the pressure element cannot be moved when the directional control valve is in the locked position. When the directional control valve is in the locked position, the pressure force cannot build up or decrease. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. Optionally, the service life or durability of the labeler, in particular of the pressure element, can be increased. The pressure regulating valve can be arranged in particular between the directional control valve and the transmission force build-up connection of the pneumatic cylinder. The directional control valve can block a flow of compressed air circulating through the pneumatic drive, in particular from and to the pneumatic cylinder, and / or control a flow direction of the compressed air depending on a number of switching positions or flow paths.The directional control valve can be used to control the supply of air pressure to and discharge of air pressure from the pneumatic cylinder, depending on the output pressure predefined in the pressure control valve. In particular, the directional control valve can be used to control whether and how much compressed air is supplied to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the transmission force build-up connection or the transmission force reduction connection. The directional control valve can be actuated electrically, in particular electromagnetically. Since the pressure element cannot be moved in the blocking position of the directional control valve, in particular due to a malfunction of the pneumatic drive, e.g.due to a leak and a resulting drop in the compressed air in the pneumatic cylinder, it can be avoided that the pressure element falls uncontrollably into the pressure position (in an embodiment in which the pressure element is moved from the starting position in the direction of gravity to the pressure position) or the home position (in an embodiment in which the pressure element is moved from the starting position in the opposite direction of gravity to the pressure position). This can prevent the pressure element from becoming damaged itself or from damaging other components of the labeler and / or the product. The directional control valve can be switched manually and / or automatically. For example, the operator can manually switch the directional control valve to the locked position due to deliberate operating processes, e.g. switching the labeler on or off.The directional control valve can automatically switch to the locked position in the event of an unwanted malfunction, particularly a power failure and / or leaks in the pneumatic actuator. For this purpose, the control device can evaluate sensor information and cause the directional control valve to switch to the locked position. Optionally, the directional control valve can be equipped with a spring return, allowing the directional control valve to automatically switch to the locked position when not actuated by means of spring force.

[0019] The directional control valve is preferably an n / m directional control valve (where n and m are equal to or greater than 3), for example a 5 / 3 directional control valve. In a first position of the directional control valve, the pressure element can be displaced towards the pressure position, and in a second position of the directional control valve, the pressure element can be displaced towards the starting position. This allows the pressure force of the pressure element to be easily and precisely regulated. In the first position of the directional control valve, compressed air can be supplied to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the transmission force build-up chamber, via the transmission force build-up connection. In the second position of the directional control valve, compressed air can be supplied to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the transmission force reduction chamber, via the transmission force reduction connection.The directional control valve can optionally have two vent ports, in particular a first vent port for venting the transmission force build-up chamber and a second vent port for venting the transmission force reduction chamber. In the first position of the directional control valve, the transmission force reduction chamber can be vented via the second vent port. In the second position of the directional control valve, the transmission force build-up chamber can be vented via the first vent port. The transmission force can be built up when the pressure of the compressed air in the transmission force build-up chamber is greater than the pressure of the compressed air in the transmission force reduction chamber. The transmission force can be reduced when the pressure of the compressed air in the transmission force reduction chamber is greater than the pressure of the compressed air in the transmission force build-up chamber. This allows the build-up and reduction of the transmission force on the pneumatic cylinder to be controlled simply and efficiently.The vent connections can optionally be equipped with a silencer, which can reduce the noise generated when compressed air is released from the pneumatic actuator. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. The compressed air can be vented into the environment or directed into a container. The container can, for example, be connected to the pneumatic actuator in such a way that the compressed air contained therein can be fed back into the pneumatic actuator at another location, particularly upstream of the directional control valve, to move the pressure element.

[0020] The labeler preferably has a cover for covering at least the directional control valve and the pressure control valve. This can prevent any intentional or unintentional changes to the setting of the directional control valve and / or the pressure control valve. For example, it can prevent the labeler, in particular the pneumatic drive, from being damaged by external influences such as contamination. Optionally, the reliability of the pneumatic drive can be increased. Ideally, the functionality of the labeler can be ensured. Optionally, the risk of injury can be reduced, thereby improving occupational safety. The cover can be attached to the labeler, in particular by means of a suitable fastening means, for example, screws.Preferably, releasable fastening means are provided to facilitate access to individual components of the labeler and their maintenance. The cover can cover at least one area of ​​the labeler from at least one side. The cover can have one or more recesses through which components of the labeler, in particular compressed air lines, can be guided. Optionally, several covers can be provided which jointly cover at least one area of ​​the labeler. For example, a first cover can cover the directional control valve and a second cover can cover the pressure control valve. In particular, when several covers are used, access to individual components of the labeler and their maintenance can be facilitated.

[0021] The labeler preferably has a pneumatic energy source for providing compressed air for the pneumatic drive for displacing the pressure element. This allows the pneumatic drive to be supplied with compressed air. The pneumatic energy source can comprise a compressed air tank, a compressor, and a pump that feeds the compressed air into the pneumatic drive, in particular to the directional control valve. The use of compressed air for displacing the pressure element can enable environmentally friendly operation of the labeler, which can improve occupational safety. Optionally, the pneumatic energy source can be fed with the compressed air discharged from the vent ports of the directional control valve and / or a relief opening of the pressure control valve. For example, the pneumatic energy source can be configured to provide compressed air of at least approximately 5 bar, preferably at least approximately 7 bar.The pneumatic energy source may be configured to provide compressed air of at most approximately 10 bar, preferably at most approximately 8 bar.

[0022] The labeler preferably has a conditioning unit arranged downstream of the pneumatic energy source for conditioning, in particular adjusting, the compressed air provided by the pneumatic energy source. This ensures that compressed air is supplied to the directional control valve at a virtually constant pressure. For example, fluctuations in the compressed air provided by the pneumatic energy source can be regulated or compensated. The conditioning unit can be designed to regulate the compressed air provided by the pneumatic energy source to a pressure that can be guided in the compressed air line(s) without damaging them. It can be avoided that compressed air is introduced into the pneumatic drive at such a pressure that components of the pneumatic drive are damaged.This can increase the service life or durability of the labeler, particularly of the pneumatic drive. For this purpose, the conditioning unit can have a pressure measuring and adjustment device. Ideally, a drop in the compressed air in the pneumatic drive, particularly in the pneumatic cylinder, can be prevented. This can ensure that an uncontrolled displacement of the pressure element into the pressure position or the starting position due to the drop in compressed air does not occur. The risk of injury can be reduced and occupational safety can be improved. The conditioning unit can also have a pressure display device to show the operator the pressure of the compressed air supplied to the directional control valve. Optionally, the conditioning unit can be designed to clean the compressed air of dirt particles and / or enrich it with lubricant if components of the pneumatic drive require it.This can increase the service life or durability of the labeler, especially the pneumatic drive. Optionally, the reliability of the pneumatic drive can be increased.

[0023] The pressure control valve preferably has a relief opening for releasing compressed air from the pneumatic actuator in the first position of the directional control valve. This allows the pressing force of the pressing element to be regulated easily and precisely. The build-up of the transmission force on the pneumatic cylinder can be controlled easily and efficiently. Optionally, the risk of injury can be reduced and occupational safety improved. For example, if the inlet pressure flowing in on the inlet side of the pressure control valve is greater than the predefined outlet pressure that should flow out of the pressure control valve on the outlet side, the pressure control valve can release compressed air via the relief opening and regulate the pressure in the pneumatic actuator. Ideally, this can prevent compressed air from being introduced into the pneumatic cylinder at a pressure that could damage it.Optionally, the relief port of the pressure control valve can be designed to release compressed air from the pneumatic actuator in the second position of the directional control valve. This allows the reduction of the transmission force on the pneumatic cylinder to be controlled simply and efficiently. Optionally, the time required to vent the transmission force build-up chamber in the second position of the directional control valve can be reduced if, in addition to the first vent port of the directional control valve, compressed air can be released via the relief port of the pressure control valve. The relief port can optionally have a silencer, which can reduce noise when compressed air is released from the pneumatic actuator. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. The compressed air can be released into the environment or directed into a container.The container can, for example, be connected to the pneumatic drive in such a way that the compressed air contained therein can be fed back into the pneumatic drive at another location, in particular upstream of the directional control valve, to move the pressure element.

[0024] Furthermore, a packaging machine, in particular a thermoforming packaging machine or tray sealer, with a labeller of the type described above is disclosed.

[0025] Furthermore, a method for applying at least one label to at least one product using a labeler having a pressing device is disclosed. The method includes the following steps: Sucking the label onto a suction surface of a suction side of a housing of the pressing device; Positioning the pressing device adjacent to the product, in particular above or below the product; Moving at least one pressing element through an opening in the suction surface between a starting position and a pressing position using a pneumatic drive; Pressing the label onto the product with a pressing force by means of the pressing element; wherein a pneumatic cylinder transmits a transmission force from the pneumatic drive to the pressing element, wherein at least one adjustable pressure control valve controls the pressing force. The method enables simple and precise regulation of the pressing force of the pressing element.This reduces the risk of injury to a person, especially to a labeler operator, due to excessive pressure, and improves occupational safety. Optionally, a labeler shutdown, which may be necessary due to a hazard or imminent injury to the operator, can be avoided or at least reduced.

[0026] Preferably, the pressure control valve controls the pressure force so that the maximum pressure force is 135 N. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve work safety.

[0027] Preferably, the pressure control valve is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder and a directional control valve, whereby the pressure element is not displaced when the directional control valve is in a locked position. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. Optionally, the service life or durability of the labeler, in particular of the pressure element, can be increased.

[0028] The directional control valve is preferably a 5 / 3-way valve, with the pressure element being moved toward the pressure position in a first position of the directional control valve, and the pressure element being moved toward the home position in a second position of the directional control valve. This allows the build-up and release of the transmission force on the pneumatic cylinder to be controlled simply and efficiently. The pressure force of the pressure element can be easily and precisely regulated. The risk of injury can be reduced and occupational safety improved.

[0029] Preferably, a pneumatic energy source provides compressed air for the pneumatic drive for displacing the pressure element, in particular wherein a conditioning unit arranged downstream of the pneumatic energy source conditions the compressed air. This allows the pneumatic drive to be supplied with compressed air. The use of compressed air for displacing the pressure element enables environmentally friendly operation of the labeler, which can improve occupational safety. The conditioning unit can be designed to condition, in particular adjust, the compressed air provided by the pneumatic energy source. The conditioning unit can ensure that compressed air is supplied to the directional control valve at a virtually constant pressure. In particular, it can be avoided that compressed air is introduced into the pneumatic drive at such a pressure that components of the pneumatic drive are damaged.This can increase the service life or durability of the labeler, especially the pneumatic drive.

[0030] Preferably, the pressure control valve releases compressed air from the pneumatic actuator via a relief port in the first position of the directional control valve. This allows the pressure force of the pressure element to be easily and precisely regulated. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. Optionally, the relief port of the pressure control valve can be designed to release compressed air from the pneumatic actuator in the second position of the directional control valve. This allows the reduction of the transmission force on the pneumatic cylinder to be easily and efficiently controlled.

[0031] The features or explanations described by one of the aspects (labeller, packaging machine or method) can be transferred to and combined with the other aspects, individually or in combination.

[0032] The invention is explained below using exemplary embodiments. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a packaging machine in the form of a thermoforming packaging machine with a labeler according to an embodiment; Fig. 2A is a schematic perspective view of a pressure device of the labeler from Fig. 1, wherein a pressing element is arranged in a starting position; Fig. 2B is a schematic perspective view of the pressure device of the labeller from Fig. 1, wherein the pressing element is arranged in a pressing position; Fig. 3 a schematic, perspective view of the pressure device of the labeller from Fig. 1, the housing not being shown to better illustrate various components; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a packaging machine in the form of a tray sealer with a labeler according to an embodiment; Fig. 5 shows a circuit diagram of a pneumatic drive of a pressure device of a labeler according to an embodiment; and Fig. 6 a section of a schematic representation of the pneumatic drive of the pressure device of the labeller from Fig. 5.

[0033] Corresponding components are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures.

[0034] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a packaging machine 1 in the form of a thermoforming packaging machine 2 with a labeler 10 according to one embodiment. The thermoforming packaging machine 1 has a sealing station 4, into which a bottom film 5 and a lidding film 6 are fed to produce packages 7'. In the sealing station 4, for example, twelve packages 7', divided into four tracks S and three rows R, are sealed in one work cycle. In the transport direction T, a labeler 10 with a control device 11 is arranged downstream of the sealing station 4 in order to apply labels 12 from above to the lidding film 6 of the twelve packages 7' in one work cycle. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the labeler 10 can optionally be designed to apply the labels 12 from below to the lidding film 6. The control device 11 of the labeler 10 can also be integrated into a control system 8 of the thermoforming packaging machine 2.The labeler 10 has a pressing device 13, which can be configured to simultaneously apply a number of labels 12 to packages 7'. This number corresponds, for example, to the number of lanes S of packages 7' in order to provide the row R of packages 7' with labels 12 in a single work step. In the present case, four labels 12 are applied simultaneously, i.e., one label 12 each to a total of four packages 7'.

[0035] In Fig. 2A, the pressing device 13 is shown in more detail. The pressing device 13 comprises a housing 14. On a suction side 15 of the pressing device 13, the housing 14 has a suction surface 16. The pressing device 13 is configured to suck one or more labels 12 onto the suction surface 16. For this purpose, an opening 17 is provided in the suction surface 16. A negative pressure can be generated in the housing 14, which serves to suck the label 12 or the labels 12 onto the suction surface 16. To apply labels 12 to the packaging 7', the labels 12 to be applied are first sucked onto the suction surface 16. This is done, for example, in such a way that a side of the labels 12, which should point away from the packaging 7' after application and should preferably be visible, points towards the suction surface 16, in particular rests against it.Subsequently, the pressing device 13 is positioned adjacent to the packaging 7', preferably above or below the packaging 7'. The labels 12 are then pressed onto the packaging 7'. For this purpose, the pressing device 13 has a pressing element 18 (see . Fig. 2B). The pressing element 18 is designed to press the labels 12 with a pressing force F A configured. For this purpose, the pressure element 18 can be moved between a starting position and a pressure position.

[0036] Fig. 2B shows the pressing element 18 in the pressing position. In the pressing position, the pressing element 18 extends through the opening 17. In the starting position, the pressing element 18 extends into the housing 14 such that no part of the pressing element 18 extends beyond the suction surface 16. In particular, the pressing element 18 extends completely within the housing 14 in the starting position. This state is shown in Fig. 2A.

[0037] As shown in the present embodiment, a belt conveyor 19 is arranged on the suction side 15 of the pressing device 13. This comprises one or more conveyor belts 19a. The conveyor belt(s) 19a each have a conveying surface that can be brought into contact with the labels 12 at least temporarily. This allows the labels 12 to be conveyed by the belt conveyor 19. The conveyor belts, or sections thereof, form the suction surface 16. The opening 17 provided in the suction surface 16 is considered to be a gap between two conveyor belts 19a and / or a gap between a conveyor belt 19a and a housing wall 20.

[0038] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the pressing device 13. In this case, the pressing element 18 is shown in the starting position. In the present embodiment, the pressing element 18 comprises a plurality of pressing plates 18a (see Fig. 3). However, embodiments are also conceivable in which the pressure element 18 comprises only one pressure plate 18a. Fig. 3 also shows that the pressure element 18 is connected to a transmission device 21 comprising a carriage 21a, an eccentric 21b, a lever arm 21c, and a belt drive 21d. The transmission device 21, in turn, is connected to a pneumatic drive 22, which is configured to displace the pressure element 18 via the transmission device 21.

[0039] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a packaging machine 1 in the form of a tray sealer 3 with a labeler 10 according to one embodiment. At the tray sealer 3, already separated packages 7' are fed to the labeler 10 for the labeling process.

[0040] Fig. Figure 5 shows a circuit diagram of a pneumatic drive 22 of a pressure device 13 of a labeler 10 according to one embodiment. The pneumatic drive comprises a pneumatic energy source 28, a conditioning unit 29, a directional control valve 25, a pressure control valve 24, and a pneumatic cylinder 23. These are connected via compressed air lines 30.

[0041] In order to reduce the risk of injury when operating the labeller 10 and to improve work safety, it may be desirable for the label 12 to be applied by means of the Fig. 2B-3 with a pressing force F Aof a maximum of approximately 135 N is applied to a product 7, in particular a package 7'. The pneumatic energy source 28 provides compressed air at a pressure of approximately 6.5 bar for this purpose. The pneumatic energy source 28 has a compressed air tank (not shown), a compressor (not shown), and a pump (not shown) that pumps the compressed air into the pneumatic drive 22. The use of compressed air to move the pressure element 18 enables environmentally friendly operation of the labeler 10, which improves work safety.

[0042] Downstream of the pneumatic energy source 28 is the processing unit 29 for processing, in particular adjusting, the compressed air. The processing unit 29 has a pressure measuring and adjusting device (not shown) for providing compressed air with a virtually constant pressure. In the present exemplary embodiment, the processing unit 29 regulates the pressure of the compressed air provided by the pneumatic energy source 28 to approximately six bar. This prevents compressed air from being introduced into the pneumatic drive 22 at an excessively high pressure, which could damage components of the pneumatic drive 22. Ideally, a drop in the compressed air in the pneumatic drive, in particular in the pneumatic cylinder, can be avoided. This ensures that no uncontrolled displacement of the pressing element 18 into the pressing position or the starting position occurs due to a drop in compressed air.

[0043] From the treatment unit 29, the compressed air is supplied via a compressed air line 30 to the directional control valve 25. The directional control valve 25 is designed as a 5 / 3-way valve. Depending on the switching position of the directional control valve 25, the pneumatic cylinder 23 can transmit a force F Ü from the pneumatic drive 22 to the pressure element 18 and thereby displace the pressure element 18. In a first position S1 of the directional control valve 25, the pressure element 18 is displaceable in the direction of the pressure position. In a second position S2 of the directional control valve 25, the pressure element 18 is displaceable in the direction of the initial position. The directional control valve 25 can also be moved into a blocking position S Sperrin which the pressure element 18 is not displaceable. In the present embodiment, the directional control valve 25 is actuated via an electromagnetic actuating device 33. The directional control valve 25 further comprises (optionally) a spring return 32, whereby the directional control valve 25 automatically returns to the blocking position S when not actuated by means of a spring force. Sperr However, it is clear to the expert that another type of actuation, for example mechanical, is also possible.

[0044] If the pressure element 18 is in the starting position and the directional control valve 25 receives a signal from the control 11 of the labeler 10 to move the pressure element 18 into the pressure position, the directional control valve 25 switches to the first position S1 in order to move the pressure element 18 into the pressure position by means of the pneumatic cylinder 23 and to apply the label 12 with the pressure force F Aof a maximum of approximately 135 N to the product 7, in particular the packaging 7'. As a result, compressed air is supplied to the pneumatic cylinder 23. In order to apply the pressing force F A of the pressure element 18, or to ensure that the pressure force F A 135 N, the adjustable pressure control valve 24 is located between the pneumatic cylinder 23 and the directional control valve 25 to control the pressing force F A The pressure control valve 24 is set to control the pressure in the pneumatic cylinder 23 such that the pressing force F A 135 N. For this purpose, the pressure control valve 24 controls the inlet pressure flowing from the directional control valve 25 of approximately 6 bar to an outlet pressure predefined in the pressure control valve of approximately 5.8 bar, which is required to achieve the pressing force F A of 135 N. The transmission of the transmission force F ÜThe pneumatic drive 22 by means of the pneumatic cylinder 23 on the pressure element 18 is subject to losses due to friction. In order to determine the pressure force F A of 135 N, the pneumatic cylinder 23 therefore transmits a transmission force F Ü of approximately 145 N to the pressure element 18. The pneumatic cylinder 23 transmits the transmission force F Üvia a system 31 comprising a piston and piston rod, which is connected to the transmission device 21 in order to displace the pressure element 18. The pneumatic cylinder 23 further comprises a bilateral end-position damping (not shown), which is adjusted in such a way that the speed of the piston rod during movement to its end positions is reduced in accordance with the starting and pressure position of the pressure element 18, thus preventing damage. In the present exemplary embodiment, the pneumatic cylinder 23 is double-acting, i.e., it has two compressed air connections, in particular a transmission force build-up connection 23a and a transmission force reduction connection 23b, which can supply the system 31 comprising the piston and piston rod with compressed air alternately from two sides. To build up the transmission force F ÜIn the first position S1 of the directional control valve 25, compressed air is supplied to a transmission force build-up chamber 23c of the pneumatic cylinder 23 via the transmission force build-up connection 23a. At the same time, compressed air is withdrawn from a transmission force reduction chamber 23d via the transmission force reduction connection 23b. The compressed air discharged via the transmission force reduction connection 23b is fed back to the directional control valve 25 and vented from the pneumatic drive 22 to the atmosphere via a second vent connection 25b of the directional control valve 25. In order to regulate the inlet pressure flowing from the directional control valve 25 from approximately 6 bar to the outlet pressure predefined in the pressure control valve 24 of approximately 5.8 bar, the pressure control valve 24 has a relief opening 24a for venting compressed air from the pneumatic drive 22 in the first position S1 of the directional control valve 25.The vent opening 25b, a vent opening 25a described below, and the relief opening 24a each have a silencer (not shown) that reduces noise generated when compressed air is released from the pneumatic drive 22. Furthermore, sensors (not shown) are mounted on the labeler, which provide information about the displacement of the pressure element 18, in particular its position relative to the starting and pressure positions, as well as the transmission force F. Ü , the contact force F A and detect the pressure of the compressed air in the pneumatic drive 22 and send it to the control device 11. Based on this sensor information, the control device 11 controls the build-up of the transmission force F Ü in the first position S1 of the directional control valve 25. The pressure element 18 consequently moves into the pressure position.

[0045] If the pressure element 18 is in the pressure position and the directional control valve 25 receives the signal from the control system 11 of the labeler 10 to move the pressure element 18 back to the starting position, the directional control valve 25 switches to the second position S2. To reduce the transmission force F ÜIn the second position S2 of the directional control valve 25, compressed air is supplied to the transmission force reduction chamber 23d of the pneumatic cylinder 23 via the transmission force reduction connection 23b. At the same time, compressed air is withdrawn from the transmission force build-up chamber 23c via the transmission force build-up connection 23a. The compressed air discharged via the transmission force build-up connection 23a is fed back to the directional control valve 25 and released from the pneumatic drive 22 into the environment via a first vent connection 25a of the directional control valve 25. In addition to the vent connection 25a of the directional control valve 25, the relief opening 24a releases compressed air from the pneumatic drive 22 in the second position S2 of the directional control valve 25. This allows the reduction of the transmission force F Üon the pneumatic cylinder 23 can be controlled simply and efficiently. Optionally, the time for venting the transmission force build-up chamber 23c in the second position S2 of the directional control valve 25 can be reduced. Depending on the information from the sensors regarding the displacement of the pressure element 18, in particular its position relative to the starting position and the pressure position, as well as the transmission force F Ü , the contact force F A and the pressure of the compressed air in the pneumatic drive 22, the control device 11 controls the reduction of the transmission force F Ü in the second position S2 of the directional control valve 25 until the pressure element 18 is moved back to the starting position.

[0046] It may be desirable to interrupt or prevent the movement of the pressure element 18 between the starting position and the pressing position. If the control device 11 receives information from the pressure sensor, for example, of a pressure drop in the pneumatic drive 22 while the pressure element 18 is in the starting position, for example, the control device 11 automatically causes the directional control valve 25 to move to the blocking position S. Sperr to switch in which the flow of compressed air circulating through the pneumatic drive 22, in particular from and to the pneumatic cylinder 23, is blocked. The connection of the pneumatic cylinder 23 via the directional control valve 25 to the pneumatic energy source 28 is interrupted. Consequently, there is no build-up or reduction of the transmission force F Ü and thus the contact force F Apossible. The pressure element 18 cannot be moved. Optionally or additionally, the directional control valve 25 can be manually moved to the blocking position S Sperr For example, to prevent the pressure element 18 from being moved out of position for maintenance purposes, which could potentially damage the pressure element itself or other components, or injure the operator. This can reduce the risk of injury and improve occupational safety. Optionally, the service life or durability of the labeler 10, in particular of the pressure element 18, can be increased.

[0047] Fig. 6 shows a section of a schematic representation of the pneumatic drive 22 of the pressing device 13 of the labeler 10 from Fig. 5. From Fig. 6 shows that the pressure device 13 of the labeler 10 has a cover 26 for covering at least the directional control valve 25 and the pressure control valve 24, as well as areas of the compressed air lines 30, from at least one side. This prevents an intentional and / or unintentional change in the setting of the directional control valve and / or the pressure control valve. On the other hand, it can prevent the labeler 10, in particular the pneumatic drive 22, from being damaged by external influences such as contamination. By means of the cover 26, the reliability of the pneumatic drive 22 can be increased, thereby reducing the risk of injury and improving work safety. Fig.6 further shows that the cover 26 is releasably attached to the labeler 10 by means of a plurality of fastening means 27, in particular screws. Detachable fastening means offer the particular advantage that the cover 26 can be easily removed as needed, for example, for access to the labeler 10 and for its maintenance. It is further shown that the cover 26 has a plurality of recesses 34 through which components of the labeler 10, in particular compressed air lines 30 for connecting to the pneumatic energy source 28, the pneumatic cylinder 23, or vent connections 25a, 25b, are routed. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 2 974 972 A1

[0002] DE 102 28 243 A1

[0003] DE 10 2019 214 426 A1

[0004] EP 3 495 280 A1

[0010]

Claims

[1] Labeler (10) for applying at least one label (12) to at least one product (7) with a pressing device (13), wherein the pressing device (13) comprises: a housing (14) having a suction surface (16) on a suction side (15) to which the label (12) can be sucked, wherein the suction surface (16) has an opening (17) through which at least one pressing element (18) can be guided, a pneumatic drive (22) configured to move the pressing element (18) between a starting position and a pressing position, wherein the pneumatic drive (22) comprises a pneumatic cylinder (23) for transmitting a transmission force (F Ü ) from the pneumatic drive (22) to the pressure element (18), characterized by that the pneumatic drive (22) has at least one adjustable pressure control valve (24) for controlling a pressing force (F A ) of the pressing element (18). [2] Labeler according to claim 1, characterized by that the pressing force (F A ) is not more than 135 N. [3] Labeller according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the pressure control valve (24) is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder (22) and a directional control valve (25), wherein in a blocking position (S Sperr ) of the directional control valve (25) the pressure element (18) cannot be moved. [4] Labeler according to claim 3, characterized by that the directional control valve (25) is a 5 / 3-way valve, wherein in a first position (S1) of the directional control valve (25) the pressing element (18) is displaceable in the direction of the pressing position, wherein in a second position (S1) of the directional control valve (25) the pressing element (18) is displaceable in the direction of the starting position. [5] Labeller according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by a cover (26) for covering at least the directional control valve (25) and the pressure control valve (24). [6] Labeller according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a pneumatic energy source (28) for providing compressed air for the pneumatic drive (22) for displacing the pressing element (18). [7] Labeller according to claim 6, characterized by a processing unit (29) arranged downstream of the pneumatic energy source (28) for processing, in particular adjusting, the compressed air provided by the pneumatic energy source (28). [8] Labeller according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the pressure control valve (24) has a relief opening (24a) for discharging compressed air from the pneumatic drive (22) in the first position (S1) of the directional control valve (25). [9] Packaging machine (1), in particular a thermoforming packaging machine (2) or tray sealer (3), with a labeller (10) according to one of the preceding claims. [10] Method for applying at least one label (12) to at least one product (7) with a labeller (10) having a pressing device (13), the method comprising the following steps: Sucking the label (12) onto a suction surface (16) of a suction side (15) of a housing (14) of the pressing device (13), Positioning the pressing device (13) adjacent to the product (7), in particular above or below the product (7), Moving at least one pressing element (18) through an opening (17) of the suction surface (16) between a starting position and a pressing position with a pneumatic drive (22), Pressing the label (12) with a pressing force (F A ) to the product (7) by means of the pressing element (18), wherein a pneumatic cylinder (23) has a transmission force (F Ü ) from the pneumatic drive (22) to the pressure element (18), characterized bythat at least one adjustable pressure control valve (24) controls the pressure force (F A ) controls. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized by that the pressure control valve (24) controls the pressure force (F A ) in such a way that the pressing force (F A ) is not more than 135 N. [12] Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by that the pressure control valve (24) is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder (22) and a directional control valve (25), wherein in a blocking position (S Sperr ) of the directional control valve (25) the pressure element (18) is not moved. [13] Method according to claim 12, characterized by that the directional control valve (25) is a 5 / 3-way valve, wherein in a first position (S1) of the directional control valve (25) the pressing element (18) is displaced in the direction of the pressing position, wherein in a second position (S2) of the directional control valve (25) the pressing element (18) is displaced in the direction of the starting position. [14] Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized by that a pneumatic energy source (28) provides compressed air for the pneumatic drive (22) for displacing the pressure element (18), in particular wherein a processing unit (29) arranged downstream of the pneumatic energy source (28) processes the compressed air, [15] Method according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized by that the pressure control valve (24) releases compressed air from the pneumatic drive (22) via a relief opening (24a) in the first position (S1) of the directional control valve (25).

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