Label pressing device with safety function

Abstract

Labeller (10) for applying at least one label (12) to at least one product (7) with a pressure device (13), wherein the pressure device (13) comprises: a housing (14) which has an intake surface (16) on an intake side (15) to which the label (12) can be drawn, wherein the intake surface (16) has an opening (17) through which at least one pressure element (18) can be guided, a pneumatic drive (22) configured to move the pressure element (18) between a starting position and a pressure position, wherein the pneumatic drive (22) a pneumatic cylinder (23) for transmitting a transmission force (F Ü ) from the pneumatic drive (22) to the pressure element (18), characterized in that the pneumatic drive (22) includes at least one adjustable pressure control valve (24) for controlling a contact 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 pressure 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 pressure device, or a method for applying at least one label to at least one product with a labeler that has a pressure device. State of the art

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

[0003] From DE 102 28 243 A1, a transmission device is known that is configured for lowering labels onto an object to be labeled. For this purpose, a sliding plate assembly is lowered downwards 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 become caught between the object to be labeled and the transmission device.

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

[0005] Based on the known state of the art, the technical problem to be solved is to specify a labeling machine for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressure device, a packaging machine, in particular a thermoforming packaging machine or tray sealer, with a labeling machine for applying at least one label to at least one product with a pressure device, or a method for applying at least one label to at least one product with a labeling machine that includes a pressure device, which reduces the risk of injury and improves occupational safety. Ideally, a downtime of the labeling machine or an interruption of the process that is necessary due to a hazard or imminent injury to an operator should be avoided or at least reduced. Solution

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

[0007] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are covered in the dependent claims.

[0008] One aspect of the invention relates to a labeling machine for applying at least one label to at least one product using a pressure device. The pressure device has a housing with a suction surface on one suction side, to which the label can be drawn. The suction surface has an opening through which at least one pressure element can be guided. The pressure device further comprises a pneumatic drive configured to move the pressure element between a starting position and a pressure position. The pneumatic drive includes a pneumatic cylinder for transmitting a force from the pneumatic drive to the pressure element. The pneumatic drive includes at least one adjustable pressure control valve for controlling the pressure force of the pressure element. This allows the pressure force of the pressure element to be regulated easily and precisely.This reduces the risk of injury to a person, especially the labeler operator, caused by excessive pressure, and improves workplace safety. Optionally, it can also prevent or at least minimize downtime of the labeler that might be necessary due to a hazard or imminent injury to the operator.

[0009] Products can include, in particular, packaging. The label can be applied to the product, for example, with an adhesive. The pressure device can be configured to draw one or more labels to the suction surface through the opening. A vacuum can be generated in the housing, which can serve to draw at least one label to the suction surface. Openings can be areas through which a gas, preferably air, can flow into and / or out of the housing. Particularly advantageously, holes in conveying elements, such as conveyor belts or conveyors, or spaces between such conveying elements can be considered openings. Spaces between a conveying element 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] The pressing position can be defined as the position of the pressing element in which the label is pressed onto a product by the pressing element. The starting position can be defined as the position of the pressing element from which it is moved into the pressing position. After pressing, the pressing element can be moved back to its starting position. The pressing element can be a pressing plate. Arrangements with multiple plates are particularly advantageous. More complex plate assemblies, such as that disclosed in EP 3 495 280 A1, are also conceivable. It is possible that the pressing element extends completely within the housing in its starting position and extends through the opening in the suction surface in its pressing position.

[0011] To move the pressure element between its initial and applied positions, the pneumatic actuator may incorporate a transmission device, such as a belt drive, a linkage, or a cam guide. This transmission device can be configured to direct a force applied by the pneumatic actuator in a desired direction and / or to increase or decrease it at a desired transmission ratio. For example, the pneumatic cylinder can transmit the force from the pneumatic actuator to a transmission device connected to the pressure element to move it.

[0012] The pneumatic cylinder can be, in particular, double-acting, i.e., it has two compressed air ports, especially a force build-up port and a force release port, which can alternately supply compressed air to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular a system consisting of a piston and a piston rod, from two sides. The build-up of the pneumatic cylinder's force can be controlled by supplying compressed air to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to a force build-up chamber, via the force build-up port. Simultaneously, compressed air can be withdrawn from a force release chamber via the force release port. The reduction of the pneumatic cylinder's force can be controlled by supplying compressed air to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the force release chamber, via the force release port.Simultaneously, compressed air can be extracted from the force build-up chamber via the force build-up port. Optionally, the pneumatic cylinder can feature adjustable end-stroke damping on both sides. This allows for simple and efficient control of the force build-up and release at the pneumatic cylinder. Ideally, this can increase the service life or durability of the labeler, especially the pneumatic cylinder.

[0013] The adjustable pressure control valve can regulate pressure fluctuations in the pneumatic actuator, in particular reducing, limiting, and / or compensating for them. The pressure control valve can be set so that an inlet pressure flowing in on one side is limited to a predefined outlet pressure flowing out of the pressure control valve on the other side. Optionally, the pressure control valve can counteract pressure spikes, thereby increasing the service life or durability of the pneumatic actuator. Ideally, the pressure control valve enables simple and precise control of the actuating element, especially its actuating force.

[0014] The transmission of the pneumatic actuator's force to the pressure element via the pneumatic cylinder can be subject to losses due to various influences, particularly friction. Consequently, it may be desirable for the pneumatic actuator's or pneumatic cylinder's transmission force to be greater than the pressure force of the pressure element in order to achieve a predetermined pressure force. 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 aforementioned components (pressure regulating valve, pneumatic cylinder) and the following components (directional control valve, pneumatic power source, air conditioning unit) can be connected via compressed air lines of a constant diameter. Multiple compressed air lines can have the same diameter or different diameters. For example, a compressed air line can be designed to carry compressed air at a pressure of at least approximately 5 bar, preferably at least approximately 7 bar. A compressed air line can be designed to carry compressed air at a pressure 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, particularly a thermoforming packaging machine or a tray sealer. Sensors mounted on the labeler, such as displacement sensors, can detect information about the movement of the pressure element, especially its position relative to the starting and pressing positions, and transmit this information to the control device. Force and / or pressure sensors can detect information about the transmission force and / or contact force and / or the pressure of the compressed air applied to components of the pneumatic drive and transmit this information to the control device. Based on this sensor information, the control device can control the labeler or pneumatic drive, especially the directional control valve and / or the pressure regulating valve.The sensor information can optionally be displayed via a display device, for example to show the operator the operating status of the labeler, in particular malfunctions of the labeler, such as a drop in pressure.

[0017] Preferably, the pressing force is at most 135 N. This reduces the risk of operator injury and improves workplace 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 pressed-on contact with 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] Preferably, the pressure regulating valve is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder and a directional control valve, wherein the pressure element is not movable in a closed position of the directional control valve. In the closed position of the directional control valve, the pressure force cannot build up or fall off. This reduces the risk of injury and improves 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 force transmission port of the pneumatic cylinder. The directional control valve can block the flow of compressed air circulating through the pneumatic actuator, in particular to and from the pneumatic cylinder, and / or control the direction of compressed air flow depending on a number of switching positions or flow paths.The directional control valve allows for the control of compressed air supply to and discharge from the pneumatic cylinder, depending on the output pressure predefined in the pressure regulating valve. Specifically, the directional control valve can be used to control whether and how much compressed air is supplied to the pneumatic cylinder, particularly to the force build-up port or the force release port. The directional control valve can be electrically actuated, especially electromagnetically. Because the actuating element is not movable in the closed position of the directional control valve, it prevents, for example, a malfunction of the pneumatic actuator from causing the valve to fail.Due to a leak and the resulting drop in compressed air in the pneumatic cylinder, the pressure element is prevented from falling uncontrollably into the pressure position (in an embodiment where the pressure element is moved from the initial position towards the pressure position in the direction of gravity) or the initial position (in an embodiment where the pressure element is moved from the initial position towards the pressure position in the opposite direction of gravity). This prevents damage to the pressure element itself or to 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 closed position for intended operating procedures, such as switching the labeler on or off.In the event of an unintended malfunction, particularly a power failure and / or leaks in the pneumatic actuator, the directional control valve can automatically switch to the closed position. For this purpose, the control device can evaluate sensor information and cause the directional control valve to switch to the closed position. Optionally, the directional control valve can have a spring return mechanism, allowing it to automatically return to the closed position by spring force when not in use.

[0019] Preferably, the directional control valve is 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, wherein in a first position of the directional control valve, the actuating element is displaceable in the direction of the actuating position, and in a second position of the directional control valve, the actuating element is displaceable in the direction of the initial position. This allows the actuating force of the actuating element to be regulated simply and precisely. In the first position of the directional control valve, compressed air can be supplied to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the force build-up chamber, via the force build-up port. In the second position of the directional control valve, compressed air can be supplied to the pneumatic cylinder, in particular to the force release chamber, via the force release port.The directional control valve can optionally have two vent ports, specifically a first vent port for venting the force build-up chamber and a second vent port for venting the force release chamber. In the first position of the directional control valve, the force release chamber can be vented via the second vent port. In the second position of the directional control valve, the force build-up chamber can be vented via the first vent port. The force can be built up when the compressed air pressure in the force build-up chamber is greater than the compressed air pressure in the force release chamber. The force can be released when the compressed air pressure in the force release chamber is greater than the compressed air pressure in the force build-up chamber. This allows for simple and efficient control of the force build-up and release at the pneumatic cylinder.The vent connections can optionally be equipped with a silencer, which reduces noise generated when compressed air is released from the pneumatic actuator. This reduces the risk of injury and improves workplace safety. The compressed air can be released into the environment or directed into a reservoir. The reservoir can be connected to the pneumatic actuator in such a way that the compressed air it contains can be reintroduced into the pneumatic actuator at another point, particularly upstream of the directional control valve, to move the pressure element.

[0020] Preferably, the labeler has a cover to conceal at least the directional control valve and the pressure regulating valve. This prevents any intentional or unintentional changes to the settings of the directional control valve and / or the pressure regulating valve. For example, it prevents the labeler, and in particular the pneumatic actuator, from being damaged by external influences such as contamination. Optionally, the reliability of the pneumatic actuator can be increased. Ideally, the functionality of the labeler can be ensured. Optionally, the risk of injury can be reduced, thereby improving workplace safety. The cover can be attached to the labeler, in particular by means of a suitable fastening device, for example, screws.Preferably, detachable fasteners are provided to facilitate access to and maintenance of individual labeling components. The cover can cover at least one area of ​​the labeling device from at least one side. The cover can have one or more recesses through which labeling components, particularly compressed air lines, can be routed. Optionally, multiple covers can be provided, jointly covering at least one area of ​​the labeling device. For example, a first cover can cover the directional control valve and a second cover the pressure regulating valve. In particular, the use of multiple covers facilitates access to and maintenance of individual labeling components.

[0021] Preferably, the labeler has a pneumatic power source for supplying compressed air to the pneumatic drive for moving the pressure element. This allows the pneumatic drive to be supplied with compressed air. The pneumatic power source can include a compressed air reservoir, a compressor, and a pump that feeds the compressed air into the pneumatic drive, particularly to the directional control valve. Using compressed air to move the pressure element can enable environmentally friendly operation of the labeler, which can improve occupational safety. Optionally, the pneumatic power source can be supplied with compressed air released from the vent ports of the directional control valve and / or a relief port of the pressure regulating valve. For example, the pneumatic power source can be configured to supply compressed air at a pressure of at least approximately 5 bar, preferably at least approximately 7 bar.The pneumatic energy source can be designed to provide compressed air at a maximum pressure of approximately 10 bar, preferably at a maximum pressure of approximately 8 bar.

[0022] Preferably, the labeler has a conditioning unit arranged downstream of the pneumatic power source for conditioning, in particular adjusting, the compressed air supplied by the pneumatic power source. This ensures that compressed air is supplied to the directional control valve at a nearly constant pressure. For example, fluctuations in the compressed air supplied by the pneumatic power source can be regulated or compensated for. The conditioning unit can be designed to regulate the compressed air supplied by the pneumatic power source to a pressure that can be guided in the compressed air line(s) without damaging them. This prevents compressed air from being introduced into the pneumatic actuator at a pressure that could damage its components.This can increase the service life or durability of the labeler, especially the pneumatic drive. The conditioning unit can include a pressure measuring and adjustment device for this purpose. Ideally, a drop in compressed air pressure in the pneumatic drive, particularly in the pneumatic cylinder, can be prevented. This ensures that the pressure element does not move uncontrollably into the pressure or starting position due to a drop in compressed air pressure. This reduces the risk of injury and improves workplace safety. The conditioning unit can also include a pressure gauge to display the pressure of the compressed air supplied to the directional control valve to the operator. Optionally, the conditioning unit can be designed to clean the compressed air of dirt particles and / or enrich it with lubricant if pneumatic drive components 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 also be improved.

[0023] Preferably, the pressure control valve has a relief port for releasing compressed air from the pneumatic actuator in the first position of the directional control valve. This allows the actuating force of the actuator to be regulated simply and precisely. The build-up of the transmission force at 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 into the inlet side of the pressure control valve is greater than the predefined outlet pressure that is to flow out of the pressure control valve on the outlet side, the pressure control valve can release compressed air via the relief port and regulate the pressure in the pneumatic actuator. Ideally, this prevents compressed air from being introduced into the pneumatic cylinder at a pressure that could damage it.Optionally, the pressure 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 for simple and efficient control of the reduction of the transmission force at the pneumatic cylinder. 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 compressed air can be released via the pressure relief port of the pressure control valve in addition to the first vent port of the directional control valve. The relief port can optionally be equipped with a silencer to reduce noise generated when releasing compressed air from the pneumatic actuator. This reduces the risk of injury and improves workplace 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 absorbed in it can be reintroduced into the pneumatic drive at another point, 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] A method for applying at least one label to at least one product using a labeler comprising a pressure device is further disclosed. The method comprises the following steps: drawing the label onto a suction surface of an intake side of a housing of the pressure device; positioning the pressure device adjacent to the product, in particular above or below the product; moving at least one pressure element through an opening in the suction surface between a starting position and a pressure position using a pneumatic actuator; pressing the label onto the product with a pressure force by means of the pressure element; wherein a pneumatic cylinder transmits a force from the pneumatic actuator to the pressure element, and wherein at least one adjustable pressure control valve controls the pressure force. The method enables simple and precise regulation of the pressure force of the pressure element.This reduces the risk of injury to a person, especially the labeler operator, caused by excessive pressure, and improves workplace safety. Optionally, it can also prevent or at least minimize downtime of the labeler that might be necessary due to a hazard or imminent injury to the operator.

[0026] Preferably, the pressure regulating valve controls the contact force such that the contact force is at most 135 N. This reduces the risk of injury and improves occupational safety.

[0027] Preferably, the pressure regulating valve is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder and a directional control valve, whereby the pressure element is not moved in a closed position of the directional control valve. This reduces the risk of injury and improves workplace safety. Optionally, the service life or durability of the labeler, in particular of the pressure element, can be increased.

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

[0029] Preferably, a pneumatic energy source provides compressed air for the pneumatic drive to move the pressure element, particularly 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 to move 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 to adjust, the compressed air supplied by the pneumatic energy source. The conditioning unit ensures that compressed air is supplied to the directional control valve at a nearly constant pressure. In particular, it prevents compressed air from being introduced into the pneumatic drive at a pressure that could damage its components.This can increase the service life or durability of the labeller, especially the pneumatic drive.

[0030] Preferably, in the first position of the directional control valve, the pressure regulating valve releases compressed air from the pneumatic actuator via a relief port. This allows for simple and precise regulation of the actuating force of the pressure element. The risk of injury can be reduced and occupational safety improved. Optionally, the relief port of the pressure regulating valve can be configured to release compressed air from the pneumatic actuator in the second position of the directional control valve. This allows for simple and efficient control of the reduction of the transmission force at the pneumatic cylinder.

[0031] The characteristics or explanations described for one of the aspects (labeler, packaging machine or process) can be individually or in combination transferred to and combined with the other aspects.

[0032] The invention is explained below using exemplary embodiments. The following are shown: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a packaging machine in the form of a thermoforming packaging machine with a labeller according to one embodiment; Fig. 2A a schematic, perspective view of a pressure device of the labeller Fig. 1, wherein a pressure element is arranged in a starting position; Fig. 2B a schematic, perspective view of the pressure device of the labeler Fig. 1, wherein the pressure element is arranged in a pressure position; Fig. 3 a schematic, perspective view of the pressure device of the labeler Fig. 1, where the casing is not shown in order to better illustrate different components; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a packaging machine in the form of a tray sealer with a labeler according to one embodiment; Fig. 5 a circuit diagram of a pneumatic drive of a pressure device of a labeller according to an embodiment; and Fig. 6 an excerpt of a schematic representation of the pneumatic drive of the pressure device of the labeler from Fig. 5.

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

[0034] Fig. Figure 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 lid film 6 are fed to produce packages 7'. In the sealing station 4, for example, twelve packages 7', divided into four lanes S and three rows R, are sealed in one work cycle. Downstream of the sealing station 4 in the transport direction T, a labeler 10 with a control device 11 is arranged to apply labels 12 to the lid film 6 from above onto the twelve packages 7' in one work cycle. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the labeler 10 can optionally be configured to apply the labels 12 to the lid film 6 from below. The control device 11 of the labeler 10 can also be integrated into a control unit 8 of the thermoforming packaging machine 2.The labeler 10 has a pressure 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 tracks S of packages 7' required to label the row R of packages 7' with labels 12 in one operation. In this case, four labels 12 are applied simultaneously, i.e., one label 12 each to a total of four packages 7'.

[0035] In Fig. Figure 2A shows the pressure device 13 in more detail. The pressure device 13 comprises a housing 14. On a suction side 15 of the pressure device 13, the housing 14 has a suction surface 16. The pressure device 13 is configured to draw one or more labels 12 onto the suction surface 16. For this purpose, an opening 17 is provided in the suction surface 16. A vacuum can be generated in the housing 14, which serves to draw the label 12 or labels 12 onto the suction surface 16. To apply labels 12 to the packages 7', the labels 12 to be applied are first drawn onto the suction surface 16. This is done, for example, by ensuring that one side of the labels 12, which should face away from the package 7' after application and preferably be visible, faces the suction surface 16, and in particular, rests against it.The pressing device 13 is then positioned adjacent to the packaging 7', preferably above or below it. The labels 12 are then pressed onto the packaging 7'. The pressing device 13 has a pressing element 18 for this purpose (see figure). Fig. 2B). The pressure element 18 is for pressing down the labels 12 with a pressure force F. A configured. For this purpose, the pressure element 18 is movable between a starting position and a pressure position.

[0036] Fig. Figure 2B shows the pressure element 18 in the pressure position. In the pressure position, the pressure element 18 extends through the opening 17. In the initial position, the pressure element 18 extends within the housing 14 in such a way that no part of the pressure element 18 extends beyond the suction surface 16. In particular, in the initial position, the pressure element 18 extends completely within the housing 14. This condition is shown in Fig. 2A is shown.

[0037] As shown in the present embodiment, a belt conveyor 19 is arranged on the suction side 15 of the pressure device 13. This conveyor comprises one or more conveyor belts 19a. Each of the conveyor belts 19a has 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, or sections thereof. The opening 17 provided in the suction surface 16 is considered to be a space between two conveyor belts 19a and / or a space between a conveyor belt 19a and a housing wall 20.

[0038] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the pressure device 13. In this case, the pressure element 18 is shown in its initial position. In the present embodiment, the pressure element 18 comprises several pressure plates 18a (see Figure 3). Fig. 3) However, embodiments are also conceivable in which the pressure element 18 comprises only a pressure plate 18a. In Fig. Figure 3 also shows that the pressure element 18 is connected to a transmission device 21 comprising a slide 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 move 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, pre-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 power source 28, a conditioning unit 29, a directional control valve 25, a pressure regulating valve 24 and a pneumatic cylinder 23. These are connected via compressed air lines 30.

[0041] To reduce the risk of injury during operation of the labeler 10 and to improve occupational safety, it may be desirable for the label 12 to be applied using the [function / method] in the Fig. The pressure element 18 shown in 2B-3 has a pressure force F AA force of at most 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 comprises a compressed air reservoir (not shown), a compressor (not shown), and a pump (not shown) that pumps the compressed air into the pneumatic actuator 22. The use of compressed air to move the pressure element 18 enables environmentally friendly operation of the labeler 10, which improves occupational safety.

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

[0043] Compressed air from the preparation unit 29 reaches the directional control valve 25 via a compressed air line 30. 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 The pneumatic actuator 22 transmits the force to the pressure element 18, thereby moving the pressure element 18. In a first position S1 of the directional control valve 25, the pressure element 18 can be moved in the direction of the pressure position. In a second position S2 of the directional control valve 25, the pressure element 18 can be moved in the direction of the initial position. The directional control valve 25 can also be moved into a closed position S Sperrcan be moved, in which the pressure element 18 is not movable. In the present embodiment, the directional control valve 25 is actuated by an electromagnetic actuator 33. The directional control valve 25 also (optionally) has a spring return 32, whereby the directional control valve 25 automatically returns to the closed position S by means of a spring force when not actuated. Sperr can be brought about. However, it is apparent 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 unit 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 press the label 12 with the pressure force F Ato apply a maximum force of approximately 135 N to the product 7, in particular the packaging 7'. As a result, compressed air reaches the pneumatic cylinder 23. To apply the contact force F A to control the pressure element 18, or to ensure that the pressure force F A The adjustable pressure regulating valve 24 is located between the pneumatic cylinder 23 and the directional control valve 25 to control the contact force F, provided that the pressure does not exceed 135 N. A The pressure regulating valve 24 is arranged to control the pressure in the pneumatic cylinder 23 such that the contact force F A not exceeding 135 N. For this purpose, the pressure control valve 24 controls the inlet pressure of approximately 6 bar flowing from the directional control valve 25 to a predefined outlet pressure of approximately 5.8 bar, which is required to generate the contact force F. A to achieve 135 N. The transmission of the transmission force F ÜThe transfer of pressure from the pneumatic drive 22 to the pressure element 18 via the pneumatic cylinder 23 is subject to losses due to friction. To achieve the pressure force F A To achieve a force of 135 N, the pneumatic cylinder 23 therefore transmits a transmission force F Ü of approximately 145 N on the pressure element 18. The pneumatic cylinder 23 transmits the transmission force F Üvia a system 31 consisting of a piston and piston rod, which is connected to the transmission device 21 to displace the pressure element 18. The pneumatic cylinder 23 further features a double-sided end-position damping (not shown) which is adjusted such that the velocity of the piston rod during movement to its end positions, corresponding to the initial and pressure positions of the pressure element 18, is reduced, thus preventing damage. In the present embodiment, the pneumatic cylinder 23 is designed to be double-acting, i.e., it has two compressed air connections, in particular a transmission force build-up connection 23a and a transmission force release connection 23b, which can alternately supply compressed air to the system 31 consisting of the piston and piston rod 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 force build-up chamber 23c of the pneumatic cylinder 23 via the force build-up port 23a. Simultaneously, compressed air is withdrawn from a force release chamber 23d via the force release port 23b. The compressed air discharged via the force release port 23b is returned to the directional control valve 25 and released from the pneumatic actuator 22 into the environment via a second vent port 25b of the directional control valve 25. To regulate the inlet pressure of approximately 6 bar flowing into the directional control valve 25 to the outlet pressure of approximately 5.8 bar predefined in the pressure control valve 24, the pressure control valve 24 has a relief port 24a for releasing compressed air from the pneumatic actuator 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. The labeler also has sensors (not shown) that 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 a signal from the control unit 11 of the labeler 10 to move the pressure element 18 back to its 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 force reduction chamber 23d of the pneumatic cylinder 23 via the force reduction port 23b. Simultaneously, compressed air is withdrawn from the force build-up chamber 23c via the force build-up port 23a. The compressed air discharged via the force build-up port 23a is routed back to the directional control valve 25 and released from the pneumatic actuator 22 into the environment via a first vent port 25a of the directional control valve 25. In addition to the vent port 25a of the directional control valve 25, the relief port 24a releases compressed air from the pneumatic actuator 22 in the second position S2 of the directional control valve 25. This allows the reduction of the force F to be achieved. ÜThe 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. This depends on the sensor information about the displacement of the pressure element 18, in particular its position relative to the initial 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 is controlled by the control device 11, which 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 initial position and the pressure position. For example, if the control device 11 receives information from the pressure sensor about a pressure drop in the pneumatic actuator 22 while the pressure element 18 is in the initial position, the control device 11 automatically causes the directional control valve 25 to move into the closed position S. Sperr to switch, in which the flow of compressed air circulating through the pneumatic actuator 22, in particular to and from 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 pressure force F APossible. The pressure element 18 cannot be moved. Optionally or additionally, the directional control valve 25 can be manually moved to the closed position S. Sperr The pressure element 18 can be switched on and off, for example, to prevent it from being moved out of position during maintenance, which could potentially damage it or other components, or injure the operator. This reduces the risk of injury and improves workplace safety. Optionally, the service life or durability of the labeler 10, particularly of the pressure element 18, can be increased.

[0047] Fig. Figure 6 shows a section of a schematic representation of the pneumatic drive 22 of the pressure device 13 of the labeler 10. Fig. 5. From Fig. Figure 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 regulating valve 24, as well as sections of the compressed air lines 30, from at least one side. This prevents any intentional and / or unintentional changes to the settings of the directional control valve and / or the pressure regulating valve. Furthermore, it prevents the labeler 10, and in particular the pneumatic actuator 22, from being damaged by external influences such as contamination. The cover 26 thus increases the reliability of the pneumatic actuator 22, thereby reducing the risk of injury and improving occupational safety. Fig.Figure 6 further shows that the cover 26 is detachably attached to the labeler 10 by means of several fastening means 27, in particular screws. Detachable fastening means offer the particular advantage that the cover 26 can be easily removed if necessary, for example, to access the labeler 10 and for maintenance. It is further shown that the cover 26 has several recesses 34 through which components of the labeler 10, in particular compressed air lines 30 for connection to the pneumatic power source 28, the pneumatic cylinder 23, or vent connections 25a, 25b, are guided.

Claims

[1] Labeller (10) for applying at least one label (12) to at least one product (7) with a pressure device (13), wherein the pressure device (13) comprises: a housing (14) which has an intake surface (16) on an intake side (15) to which the label (12) can be drawn, wherein the intake surface (16) has an opening (17) through which at least one pressure element (18) can be guided, a pneumatic drive (22) configured to move the pressure element (18) between a starting position and a pressure position, wherein the pneumatic drive (22) 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 actuator (22) has at least one adjustable pressure control valve (24) for controlling a contact force (F) A ) of the pressure element (18). [2] Labeller according to claim 1, characterized by , that the pressing force (F A ) at most 135 N. [3] Labeller according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the pressure regulating valve (24) is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder (22) and a directional control valve (25), wherein in a closed position (S Sperr ) of the directional control valve (25) the pressure element (18) is not movable. [4] Labeller 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 pressure element (18) is movable in the direction of the pressure position, wherein in a second position (S1) of the directional control valve (25) the pressure element (18) is movable 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 any of the preceding claims, characterized by a pneumatic energy source (28) for providing compressed air for the pneumatic drive (22) for moving the pressure 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 supplied by the pneumatic energy source (28). [8] Labeller according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the pressure regulating valve (24) has a relief opening (24a) for releasing compressed air from the pneumatic actuator (22) in the first position (S1) of the directional control valve (25). [9] Packaging machine (1), in particular 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) using a labeler (10) having a pressure device (13), the method comprising the following steps: Suction of the label (12) to a suction surface (16) of a suction side (15) of a housing (14) of the pressure device (13), Positioning the pressure device (13) adjacent to the product (7), in particular above or below the product (7), Moving at least one pressure element (18) through an opening (17) of the suction surface (16) between a starting position and a pressure position with a pneumatic drive (22), Pressing down the label (12) with a pressure force (F A ) to the product (7) by means of the pressure element (18), wherein a pneumatic cylinder (23) transmits a force (F Ü ) from the pneumatic drive (22) to the pressure element (18), characterized by, that at least one adjustable pressure regulating valve (24) controls the contact force (F A ) controls. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized by , that the pressure regulating valve (24) controls the actuating force (F A ) controls in such a way that the pressing force (F A ) at most 135 N. [12] Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by , that the pressure regulating valve (24) is arranged between the pneumatic cylinder (22) and a directional control valve (25), wherein in a closed 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 pressure element (18) is moved in the direction of the pressure position, wherein in a second position (S2) of the directional control valve (25) the pressure element (18) is moved in the direction of the initial position. [14] Method according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized by , that a pneumatic energy source (28) provides compressed air for the pneumatic drive (22) for moving the pressure element (18), in particular wherein a conditioning unit (29) arranged downstream of the pneumatic energy source (28) conditions the compressed air, [15] Method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterized by , that the pressure regulating valve (24) in the first position (S1) of the directional control valve (25) releases compressed air from the pneumatic actuator (22) via a relief opening (24a).

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