TECHNIQUE FOR MARKING A PROLATE OBJECT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a technique for marking a prolate object, for example a conductor. In particular, the invention relates to a device for providing a marking that is or can be arranged to be enclosed around a prolate object.

[0002] Traditionally, label printers are used to mark electrical conductors, for example. These printers print a label that then has to be manually attached to the conductor after printing. Document US 2003 / 146943 A1 describes a printer that alternately prints and cuts a label.

[0003] Furthermore, specialized printers are known that can be used for conductor marking. Document US 2004 / 0211522 A1 describes a machine that wraps a pre-printed wrap-around label on a spindle roll around a conductor. Document US 2008 / 0073023 A1 discloses a monolithic machine for printing and applying wrap-around labels.

[0004] However, conventional devices can only print certain labels, and if an automated application is integrated, then no other printing applications are possible with such a device.

[0005] Document WO 1999 / 56271 A1 describes how to open a printed heat shrink tube in order to slide it onto a conductor. However, with the conventional opening technique, there is a possibility that when pressing on the longitudinal edges of the flattened tube with jaws, the tube will not open, but instead the upper and lower halves of the tube will bulge out in the same direction.

[0006] Document EP 1 332 970 A1 describes a method and a device for cutting label cores from a flat, tubular label tape. However, the conventional technique does not allow for different tape widths.

[0007] EP 1 332 970 A1 discloses a device for providing a hose arranged or arrangable around a prolate object as a means of marking the object, comprising: a cutting unit designed to cut the printed hose at an interface of the hose, wherein at least at the interface an upper hose half and a lower hose half of the hose are adjacent to each other or connected to each other at the end and / or inside;and an opening unit for opening the upper and lower hose halves, comprising at least two opening rollers, each rotatable about an axis of rotation, wherein the respective axis of rotation is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions, and wherein the at least two opening rollers bear against the cut hose on sides opposite in the transverse direction or each drive a belt bearing against the cut printed hose on sides opposite in the transverse direction, wherein the opening rollers are configured to press the hose open at specific points from the outside. The device also includes a flattening unit configured to prevent bulging of the hose perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and / or perpendicular to the transverse direction, or an additional unit between the flattening unit and the opening unit.

[0008] EP 1 332 970 A1 does not disclose a heating element.

[0009] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a device for a printing system, preferably with the size and portability of a tabletop device, so that the system can be quickly converted to various object marking applications, preferably various conductor marking applications, including marking with a printable tube. A further or more specific objective is to reliably open the printed tube.

[0010] The problem is solved according to the invention by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0011] One aspect relates to a device for providing a tube, enclosed or arrangable around a prolate object, preferably a conductor, for marking the object. The device comprises a printer configured to dispense a printed tube longitudinally, or a material interface configured to receive a printed tube dispensed longitudinally by a printer. Alternatively or additionally, the device comprises a cutting unit configured to cut the printed tube at an interface point in a transverse direction, preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the tube, wherein at least at the interface point an upper tube half and a lower tube half are abutted or connected to each other at the ends and / or on the inside.Alternatively or additionally, the device comprises an opening unit for opening the upper and lower hose halves, comprising at least two opening rollers rotatable about an axis of rotation, wherein the respective axis of rotation is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions, and wherein the at least two opening rollers bear against the cut printed hose on sides opposite in the transverse direction or each drive a belt bearing against the cut printed hose on sides opposite in the transverse direction.

[0012] The opening unit can be designed to separate the upper and lower hose halves from each other and / or to open the cut printed hose, for example at the end of the cut or along its entire length. For example, the opening rollers can be used to separate the upper hose half from the lower hose half.

[0013] The opening rollers can open the printed hose, for example, when the hose is flattened or held flat, by flexing the hose. The hose can also be opened from a flat state by applying pressure to the longitudinal edge of the hose at specific points using the opening rollers or along a line (for example, using a belt running over the opening rollers).

[0014] The opening rollers can be positioned in pairs at points on the cut printed tube that are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0015] The device may further include an object centering unit configured to align the prolate object, preferably the conductor, in line or coaxially with the cut printed tube.

[0016] The opening rollers can be designed to slide the cut printed tube along the longitudinal direction over the prolate object to form a completely closed arrangement around the prolate object.

[0017] The device may further include a pressure signal interface configured to detect a control signal for dispensing the printed tube. Alternatively or additionally, the device may include at least one sensor configured to detect a control signal for providing the marking.

[0018] The device may further include a roller drive designed to rotate the opening rollers synchronously around their respective axis of rotation (and, if necessary, to drive the belts). The opening rollers located on opposite sides of the cut printed hose can rotate in opposite directions.

[0019] The roller drive can be designed to arrange the marking on the object in a completely closed manner, or to provide it for a completely closed arrangement, depending on the control signal for the output of the printed tube and / or the control signal for the provision of the marking.

[0020] The device can further comprise two longitudinally movable carriages in the transverse direction, on each of which at least one of the at least two opening rollers is rotatably mounted about the respective axis of rotation. The distance between the two opening rollers of the respective roller pair and / or the contact force of the opening rollers on the cut printed tube can depend on a detected or measured width of the tube.

[0021] The device may further include a width sensor arranged between the flattening unit and the opening unit or between pairs of rollers of the opening unit, which is configured to measure the width of the hose (preferably before opening and / or during opening). Alternatively or additionally, the width of the hose may be detected via the data interface.

[0022] The continuous, closed surface of the cut printed tube used for marking can simply be continuous. For example, the continuous, closed arrangement can include openings in the surface.

[0023] The device can be a device for providing a printed tube or for applying a printed tube to the object (hereinafter referred to as: applicator). Alternatively or additionally, the device can be for arranging a printed marking in a closed loop around a suitable object, preferably a conductor.

[0024] The longitudinal direction (also: direction of movement) of the hose as a pressure medium can correspond to the feed direction (also: conveying direction) of the printer and / or the device.

[0025] The opening rollers can rest against opposite longitudinal edges of the cut printed tube in the transverse direction. The longitudinal edges can form a closed edge of the cut printed tube in the transverse direction. The upper and lower halves of the tube.

[0026] In a first variant, applicable to every feature and embodiment, the device can be designed as an applicator, attachment, or add-on for the printer, particularly a thermal transfer printer. The device can be interchangeable. A variety of different embodiments of the devices can optionally be attached to the same printer.

[0027] In a second variant, applicable to every feature and embodiment, the device can include the printer.

[0028] A printer's printing medium can be a tube. The length of the tube used as the printing medium can be any length or several times longer than the printed tube provided for marking. The printing medium can be referred to as a continuous tube. The printed tube dispensed by the printer can also be referred to as the printed product. The printer's printed product can include the printed tube. The (printed) marking can include the cut and opened, printed tube.

[0029] The printer can receive an identifier via an interface (e.g., a network interface or a serial interface). The printer can be configured to print the received identifier onto a printing medium using a printing material. The printing material can be a ribbon, for example, for thermal transfer printing. The printing medium (i.e., a substrate or printing material) can be a plastic film, for example, for heat sealing or welding, or heat-shrink tubing. The printed product can include the printing medium printed using the printing material.

[0030] The provision can include arranging the marking on the prolate object, preferably a circumferential arrangement around a longitudinal axis of the prolate object. The at least one actuator can be configured to arrange the printed marking circumferentially around a longitudinal axis of the object.

[0031] For example, the opening unit can order or provide the marking when the control signal of the print signal interface indicates the output of the printed product at the material interface and the control signal of the sensor indicates the presence of the object or a user request to provide the marking.

[0032] The device and the printer can be arranged side by side, for example, without a direct mechanical connection. For instance, the printer and the device can each be positioned securely and / or with a non-slip surface on the same work area. For example, a material interface of the printer can be aligned with or in contact with the material interface of the device. A gap can remain between the printer and the device during operation.

[0033] The cutting unit can include a movable (preferably longitudinally movable) blade that, for example, stands vertically and moves upwards in a controlled manner to perform the cutting action. The movable blade can slide over a stationary counter-blade (or simply: stationary blade). A through-opening for the material interface can be located between the blades, allowing the printed tube to be passed between them and the device.

[0034] A drive for the blade can be located below the material interface and / or include an electric motor, a gearbox and a rack and pinion attached to the movable blade as a linear drive.

[0035] A cutting edge of the movable blade can be angled to the direction of movement or V-shaped. A cutting edge of the stationary blade can be perpendicular to the direction of movement or V-shaped. The movable blade with an angled cutting edge can include a guide pin that rests against the stationary blade when the movable blade is in the open position.

[0036] The device further comprises a flattening unit designed to prevent the hose from bulging perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and / or perpendicular to the transverse direction. For example, the flattening unit comprises two retaining edges between which the hose can be selectively or controllably held or guided flat.

[0037] The flattening unit and the cutting unit can be driven by a common drive.

[0038] The flattening unit can be designed to prevent the upper half of the hose from bulging downwards and / or the lower half of the hose from bulging upwards.

[0039] According to the invention, the flattening unit or an additional unit of the device comprises a heating element between the flattening unit and the opening unit.

[0040] The heating element can be designed to heat the hose on one side, preferably either the upper half of the hose or the lower half of the hose, for local deformation of the hose, preferably for local contraction of the hose (for example, a shrink hose).

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the heating elements can be arranged transversely on both sides of the hose. For example, the opening unit or an additional unit between the flattening unit and the opening unit comprises two heating elements that press against the hose and / or conduct heat on transversely opposite sides of the hose.

[0042] The printed tube can be guided by the flattening unit, namely between two horizontal surfaces, a horizontal surface and a roller with a horizontal running surface, or two rollers with horizontal running surfaces. A longitudinal distance along the tube between (for example, the horizontal guide) the flattening unit and a first opening roller of the opening unit (for example, for applying edge pressure) can be smaller than the width or diameter of the tube.

[0043] The opening unit can be in direct contact with opposite edges (i.e., longitudinal edges) of the flat (i.e., still closed) hose, or it can drive at least two belts that are in contact with opposite edges of the hose. The opening rollers can exert a horizontal pressure force on the respective edge of the hose (directly or via the belts). The opening rollers can be biased in the direction of the hose. Opening rollers can have a vertical axis of rotation.

[0044] The opening rollers or belts can be tapered. The opening rollers (and, if applicable, the belts) can be driven in the direction of hose movement.

[0045] Preferably, a plurality of opening rollers are arranged in pairs opposite each other on each side of the hose. The plurality of opening rollers can be driven synchronously.

[0046] The opening rollers (and, if applicable, the belts) can be mounted on carriages that move transversely to the longitudinal direction of the hose. The distance between the rollers or belts can be controlled by means of these movable carriages, for example, depending on the width or diameter of the hose. The width sensor can detect the width or diameter of the hose without contact, preferably optically.

[0047] The device can further include a vacuum opening unit comprising at least one suction cup, preferably at least two suction cups. The suction cup(s) can each be positioned on the upper half and / or the lower half of the hose. The vacuum opening unit, by means of a vacuum in the respective suction cup, is able to at least partially separate the upper and lower halves of the hose when opening the hose.

[0048] Opening the hose can be done without damaging it. The upper and lower halves of the hose can be connected and remain connected along their longitudinal edge.

[0049] The vacuum opening unit can be part of the opening unit, part of the flattening unit, or located between the flattening unit and the opening unit.

[0050] The negative pressure (for example, an air vacuum) in the suction cups can be applied transversely to the pressure force of the opening rollers and / or transversely to the direction of movement or longitudinal direction (preferably in opposite directions on the upper and lower halves of the hose). Optionally, an air positive pressure, preferably by means of a nozzle, is applied to the end of the hose parallel to the direction of movement or longitudinal direction.

[0051] The device may further include a mechanical interface designed to attach the device to the printer either detachably or irreversibly. The attachment may be irreversible, for example, by means of a bonded connection. Alternatively, the device may be detachably attached to the printer, for example, by being non-destructively detachable and / or attachable and / or detachable without tools.

[0052] The at least one sensor of the control signal for providing the marking can be configured to detect the object, preferably to detect the presence, position and / or size of the object.

[0053] The control signal for providing the marking can indicate the presence (i.e., the location), position, and / or size of the object. The position can include the object's location and / or orientation (for example, along its longitudinal axis). The size can include the object's length (for example, along its longitudinal axis), diameter, and / or circumference.

[0054] The at least one sensor of the control signal for providing the marking can detect the object without contact.

[0055] The at least one sensor of the control signal for providing the marking can include a push button. The control signal for providing the marking can indicate the actuation of the push button.

[0056] The control signal for providing the label can indicate a user request for the label to be provided. The control signal for providing the label can be a trigger signal.

[0057] The device comprises at least one actuator, wherein the cutting unit, the opening unit, a flattening unit, a heating element and / or a vacuum opening unit are each an example of an actuator of the device.

[0058] The at least one actuator can be designed to arrange the marking on the object in a closed, continuous manner or to provide it for a closed, continuous arrangement in response to the detection of the object and / or the detection of the trigger signal.

[0059] The button can be a foot switch or a hand switch.

[0060] The print signal interface may include a sensor designed to detect the printed product output by the printer, preferably detecting the presence, position and / or feed of the output printed product.

[0061] The sensor for detecting the output of the printed product (also: sensor for detecting the output printed product or simply: sensor for detecting the printed product) can be positioned at the material interface. The sensor for detecting the printed product can detect the printed product without contact.

[0062] The at least one sensor may also include a sensor for detecting the printed product output by the printer. Detection of the printed product may include detecting its presence, location (e.g., position and / or orientation), and / or size (e.g., length and / or diameter).

[0063] The print signal interface may include a data interface configured to communicate with the printer for the provision or arrangement of the marking, preferably to communicate bidirectionally.

[0064] The at least one actuator can be designed (for example, in response to the detection of the object and / or the trigger signal) to process the printed product issued by the printer for marking purposes in communication with the printer and to apply the marking to the object or to make it available for application.

[0065] Bidirectional communication can include receiving a control signal to output the printed product from the printer and sending a control signal to request output of the printed product to the printer. For example, the control signal to provide the marking can be forwarded to the printer via the data interface as a request to output the printed product.

[0066] The printer can be configured to transfer the printed product to the device at the material interface, for example according to bidirectional communication and / or in response to the control signal to provide the marking.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, the data interface can be designed for wireless communication, preferably using radio signals, infrared signals or near-field communication.

[0068] The data interface can be configured to synchronize or coordinate alternating and / or event-driven operation of the at least one actuator and the printer for providing or arranging the labeling.

[0069] For example, a printer's feed of the printed product can be alternately executed, synchronized, and / or coordinated with cutting, folding, and / or turning the output product. The individual steps performed by the device or printer during alternating and / or event-driven operation to provide or arrange the marking can also be referred to as actions. The coordination of these individual steps can also be referred to as action coordination.

[0070] The data interface can be configured to allow the printer to control at least one actuator of the device, to read the control signals of at least one sensor and / or the print signal interface of the device and / or an identifier stored in the device.

[0071] The device's at least one actuator can be controlled via the printer's data interface. Alternatively or additionally, measured values ​​from the device's at least one sensor can be queried via the data interface.

[0072] The data interface can be electrically connected within the device to at least one actuator and / or at least one sensor.

[0073] The data interface can be configured to receive control commands for controlling or regulating the at least one actuator from the printer and / or to send control commands for controlling or regulating the printer to the printer based on the control signals of the at least one sensor and / or the print signal interface.

[0074] The data interface can be electrically connected within the device to at least one actuator and / or at least one sensor via a control unit and / or a regulating unit. The control unit and / or regulating unit can determine application parameters from the acquired measured values. The control commands sent to the printer can include these parameters and / or control the printer according to them.

[0075] The data interface can be configured to send control signals from at least one sensor and / or the print signal interface and / or parameters determined from the control signals to the printer for providing or arranging the marking.

[0076] The device may further include a control unit or regulating unit configured to control or regulate the at least one actuator of the device, depending on the control signals of the at least one sensor, measured values ​​received from the printer via the data interface, confirmation messages received from the printer via the data interface and / or control commands received from the printer via the data interface, for arranging or providing the marking.

[0077] The control unit or regulating unit can further be configured to receive a control command from the printer via the data interface, to execute the control or regulation of the at least one actuator according to the control command, and to send feedback to the printer via the data interface in response to the completion of the execution of the control command.

[0078] The feedback can include confirmation of the (e.g., successful) completion of the control command execution or an error message indicating an error during the execution of the control command. For example, the feedback can inform the printer that the device has reached a defined state, such as the end position of at least one actuator.

[0079] The control unit can further be configured to determine a parameter of the arrangement based on the control signal detected by at least one sensor and to send the determined parameter to the printer via the data interface. The detected control signal can specify the length, diameter, or circumference of the object. The determined parameter can specify the length of a feed or retraction of the printed product.

[0080] A control command sent from the device to the printer via the data interface can initiate a feed or a retraction.

[0081] The control unit or regulating unit can autonomously perform the provision or arrangement of the marking, or a sub-step of providing or arranging the marking, according to the control command during the period between receiving the control command from the printer and sending the feedback to the printer.

[0082] The device may also include an electrical interface designed to supply the device with electrical energy via the printer.

[0083] The data interface and / or the electrical interface can be arranged relative to the mechanical interface to contact the printer for communication or to supply electrical power when the device is attached to the printer via the mechanical interface.

[0084] The data interface can be positioned relative to the mechanical interface to contact the printer for communication when the device is attached to the printer via the mechanical interface. Similarly, the electrical interface can be positioned relative to the mechanical interface to contact the printer for power supply when the device is attached to the printer via the mechanical interface. For example, attaching the device to the printer via the mechanical interface may close contacts of the data interface and / or the electrical interface.

[0085] The object may include a conductor, preferably an electrical conductor or a light guide.

[0086] The mechanical interface may include a centering pin or an opening for receiving a centering pin and / or a lever and an eccentric connected to the lever in a rotationally fixed manner, designed for screwless and / or tool-free attachment of the device to the printer.

[0087] A further aspect concerns a system (also: printing system) for providing a tube, arranged or arrangable around a prolate object, preferably a conductor, as a means of marking the object. The system comprises a printer, preferably a thermal transfer printer, configured to output a printed tube as the printed product. Alternatively or additionally, the system comprises a device according to one embodiment of the device aspect. The material interface of the device can be arranged relative to the printer of the system to receive the printed tube output by the printer as the printed product.

[0088] Another aspect concerns a method for providing a tube, enclosed or arrangable around a prolate object, preferably a conductor, as a means of identifying the object. The method comprises a step of printing a tube longitudinally or receiving a printed tube dispensed longitudinally by a printer at a material interface. Alternatively or additionally, the method comprises a step of cutting the printed tube at an interface in a transverse direction, preferably perpendicular, to the longitudinal direction of the tube, using a cutting unit. At least at the interface, an upper and a lower tube half can be adjacent to or connected to each other at the ends and / or on the inside.Alternatively or additionally, the method includes a step of opening the upper and lower hose halves by means of an opening unit. At least two opening rollers, each rotatable about an axis of rotation, can knead the hose, the respective axis of rotation being perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions, and the at least two opening rollers bearing against the cut printed hose on sides opposite in the transverse direction, or each driving a belt bearing against the cut printed hose on sides opposite in the transverse direction.

[0089] The method has the features of claim 14.

[0090] The method may further comprise any feature or corresponding process step disclosed in the context of the device, printer, and / or printing system. For example, the method may comprise at least one of the steps designated B1 to B17 and S1 to S24 in the description.

[0091] Exemplary embodiments of the device enable a modular system (also: printing system) that can be based on a single printer, for example a table-top device, so that this printer can be converted in a short time or a few steps to the various applications of object marking, preferably conductor marking.

[0092] For example, a user can quickly and easily create a system from a normal or application-independent label printer to support the application of a marking (e.g., a label) to the prolate object to be marked, preferably the conductor to be marked.

[0093] The terms application and applying can be interpreted synonymously or interchangeably here (preferably as a process step). The terms arrangement and arranging can be interpreted synonymously or interchangeably here (preferably as a process step).

[0094] Applying the marking to or on the prolate object (preferably on or around the ladder) may include arranging the marking on or around the prolate object. Providing the marking, which is arranged or can be arranged to completely encircle the prolate object (preferably around the ladder), may include cutting (preferably trimming) the printed product.

[0095] The prolate object can be an elongated object. At least in sections, the prolate object can be a (for example, general) cylinder, preferably a circular cylinder or a prism.

[0096] The prolate object can have a longitudinal axis. An extension of the object in the direction of the longitudinal axis can be greater (for example, several times greater) than any extension of the object transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0097] The prolate object can be a conductor, a tube, a vessel, or a housing. The conductor can be an elongated object for conducting signals or substances. For example, the conductor can be an elongated object for conducting electric current and / or electromagnetic radiation (preferably light). The vessel can be a test tube or a sample tube, for example, for receiving and / or transporting a fluid.

[0098] The conductor can comprise one or two, at least two, three or more electrically insulated or optically decoupled conductors. The conductors can run parallel to each other or be twisted together (for example, in pairs).

[0099] The conductor can be a single-stranded, multi-stranded, fine-stranded, and / or extra-fine-stranded conductor. The conductor can be a cable, cable bundle, and / or ribbon cable. The conductor can be an optical fiber (also: fiber optic cable). The conductor can be a hose and / or a fluid line.

[0100] The conductor can be a cylindrical body and / or a non-rotationally symmetric, elongated body. The transmission of signals or substances can be directed along a longitudinal axis of the conductor and / or run between the ends of the conductor.

[0101] By making embodiments of the device suitable for a specific application attachable to a printer not specifically designed for that application, the need for specialized printers for each application, and thus associated costs, can be avoided, and / or resources can be used more effectively. For example, this can increase the printer's utilization rate. The same or other embodiments of the device can also reduce the subsequent manual effort required to mount the printing materials onto the objects to be marked.

[0102] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.

[0103] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic sectional view of a first embodiment of a device for providing a hose as an identifier, attached to an embodiment of a printer; Fig. 2 a schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of the device for providing a hose as an identifier in a first state; Fig. 3 a schematic sectional view of the second embodiment of the device for providing a hose as an identifier in a second state; Fig. 4 a schematic top view of a third embodiment of the device for providing a hose as an identifier; Fig. 5A a schematic perspective view of an exemplary opening unit that can be used in embodiments of the device; Fig. 5B a schematic view of a first exemplary object centering unit that can be used in embodiments of the device; Fig.5C A schematic view of a second exemplary object centering unit that can be used in embodiments of the device; Fig. 6A A schematic perspective view of an exemplary cutting unit of the device for providing a hose for marking; Fig. 6B A schematic perspective view of a variant of the cutting unit of the . Fig. 6AFig. 6C A schematic view of a first exemplary combination of blades for the cutting unit of the device for providing a hose for identification purposes; Fig. 6A schematic view of a second exemplary combination of blades for the cutting unit of the device for providing a hose for identification purposes; Fig. 6E A schematic view of a third exemplary combination of blades for the cutting unit of the device for providing a hose for identification purposes; Fig. 7A A schematic perspective view of an exemplary flattening unit of the device for providing a hose for identification purposes, preferably with a heating element acting on the hose perpendicular to the transverse direction; Fig.Fig. 7: Schematic top view of an exemplary opening unit of the device for providing a hose for identification purposes, preferably with two heating elements acting on the hose in opposite directions in the transverse direction; Fig. 8: Schematic top view of an exemplary roller pair arrangement of the printer and / or the device for providing a hose for identification purposes; Fig. 8: Schematic perspective view of the exemplary roller pair arrangement of the . Fig. 8A Fig. 9 a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of the printer as a thermal transfer printer; Fig. 10A a schematic perspective view of an exemplary printing system comprising an embodiment of the printer and an embodiment of the device for providing a tube for identification, in an assembled position; Fig. 10B a schematic perspective view of the exemplary printing system of the Fig. 10Ain a disassembled position; Fig. 11A a first flowchart of an embodiment of a method for providing a hose for identification; and Fig. 11A the first flowchart of an embodiment of a method for providing a hose for identification;

[0104] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a device generally designated by reference numeral 100 for providing a hose that is or can be arranged to be enclosed around a prolate object 102, preferably around a conductor, as designation 101 of the object 102.

[0105] The device 100 comprises a printer 200 configured to output a printed tube 214 in longitudinal direction 210 or a material interface 156 configured to receive a printed tube 214 output by a printer 200 in longitudinal direction 210.

[0106] Furthermore, the device 100 comprises a cutting unit 120, which is designed to cut the printed hose 214 at an interface of the hose in a transverse direction 121, preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 of the hose, wherein at least at the interface an upper hose half and a lower hose half of the hose are adjacent to each other or connected to each other at the end and / or inside.

[0107] Furthermore, the device 100 comprises an opening unit 122 for opening the upper and lower hose halves. The opening unit 122 comprises at least two opening rollers, each rotatable about an axis of rotation. The respective axis of rotation is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 and the transverse direction 121. The at least two opening rollers bear against the cut printed hose, preferably on sides opposite each other in the transverse direction 121.

[0108] Exemplary embodiments allow the hose to be provided cut and opened. The cutting unit 120 can also be referred to as a length-cutting device. For example, the hose length can be adjusted by the user of the device due to the combination of cutting unit 120 and opening unit 122.

[0109] Optionally, the embodiment includes a mechanical interface 152 configured to detachably attach the device 100 to a printer 200. Alternatively or additionally, the device 100 includes a data interface 158 configured to communicate with the printer 200 for the provision (for example, for application) of the printed, cut, and opened tube 101 as a marking.

[0110] For a concise description, and without limiting the prolate object 102, a ladder is described below as an example of the prolate object 102.

[0111] Furthermore, exemplary embodiments of a device 100 that is detachably attached or attachable to the printer 200 are described or shown below. The features disclosed in the context of this embodiment are also disclosed for a further embodiment in which the device 100 and the printer 200 form a printing system (e.g., one that cannot be separated without damage) (also: monolithic printing system). In the latter embodiment, a data interface and an electrical interface can be implemented by means of a continuous cable or a connector.

[0112] At least one sensor 106 of the device 100 is configured to detect the conductor 102. The device 100 receives the tube 214 dispensed by the printer 200 via a material interface 156. The tube is printed and may still be closed, i.e., the upper and lower tube halves may be connected at the ends or internally (e.g., across the entire surface).

[0113] The cutting unit 120 and the opening unit 122 are examples of actuators of the device 100. At least one of the actuators 120 and 122 of the device 100 is configured and / or controlled to provide the marking 101, preferably on the conductor 102, in response to the detection of the printed tube (for example by means of the sensor 104), the communication with the printer 200 (for example via the data interface 158) and / or the detection of the conductor 102 (for example by means of the sensor 106) by means of the printed product 214 issued by the printer 200, preferably by means of the printed product 214 (i.e. to apply it).

[0114] Preferably, the device 100 further comprises an electrical interface 154 for supplying power to the device 100 via the printer 200. Alternatively or additionally, the device 100 can include its own power supply, for example a power supply unit for connection to a mains power supply or a rechargeable electrical energy storage device (for example a secondary cell).

[0115] Optionally, the device 100 includes a control unit 130 or regulating unit 130, which is configured to control or regulate at least one or each actuator (for example, the actuator 120 and / or 122) of the device 100, for example according to a controlled variable whose actual value is recorded as measured values ​​by the sensor 106. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit 130 or the regulating unit 130 can be configured to record the measured values ​​of the at least one sensor 104 and / or 106 and send them to the printer via the data interface 158. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit 130 or the control unit 130 can be configured to receive control commands for controlling or regulating the at least one actuator (for example, the actuator 120 and / or 122) from the printer 200 via the data interface 158 and / or to send control commands for controlling or regulating the printer 200 to the printer 200 based on measured values ​​from the at least one sensor 106.

[0116] The designation 101 preferably refers to the opened, cut, and printed tube, which is also designated by the reference numeral 101. The printed product 214 can be a printing medium 208 printed by the printer 200. The printing medium 208 comprises the tube. The tube can be a so-called continuous tube; for example, the size of a magazine of the tube can be independent of the function of the device. Alternatively or additionally, the tube can be a heat-shrink tube.

[0117] The marking 101 can comprise a section of the printed product 214, for example, a section of the printed product 214 cut by the device 100 using the cutting unit 120. The marking 101 can also be referred to as a label.

[0118] Applying the marking 101 to the conductor 102 can include a positive-locking connection (e.g., one that is movable in the longitudinal direction of the conductor 102) between the marking 101 and the conductor 102. For this purpose, the hose 101 and / or a film (e.g., a weldable thermoplastic film) that can be bonded to itself at its end (preferably by applying heat) can be used.

[0119] The optional arrangement or application of the marking 101 on the conductor 102 by means of one of the actuators, preferably by means of the opening unit 122, comprises opening the cut hose 214 and sliding the opened hose 101 onto the conductor 102 as a marking.

[0120] The device 100 can be configured to apply the marking 101 to the conductor 102 when the conductor 102 is already mounted (for example, when a remote end of the conductor is in contact, or both ends of the conductor are in contact, and / or one or both ends of the conductor are not free ends). Preferably, during the application, the conductor 102 is not rotated about a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 of the conductor 102, and / or is not rotated about a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the conductor 102, and / or is at rest.

[0121] The hose 101 applied to the conductor 102 can be captive. Alternatively or additionally, a printed area of ​​the applied hose 101 can be flat or substantially free of curvature. For example, the printed area can be positioned between two embossed markings in the hose 101 that are parallel to the longitudinal direction. This allows the printed area to be easily legible and / or sufficiently large.

[0122] The marking 101 can be permanent, for example with regard to the printing (preferably by using a thermal transfer printer 200), with regard to the material of the printing medium 208 (for example, by using a thermoplastic as the printing medium 208 in the hose), and / or with regard to the attachment to the conductor 102 (for example, by the marking 101 being positively, frictionally and / or materially bonded to the conductor 102).

[0123] The tube 101 used as a marker can be space-saving, for example, allowing several conductors 102, each bearing such a marker 101, to be placed close together. Alternatively or additionally, the marker 101 can be movable and / or rotatable, for example, by being positively connected to the conductor 102. This allows the marker 101 to be aligned on closely spaced conductors 102 (e.g., cables).

[0124] The in Fig. 1 The first embodiment of the device 100 shown is attached to an embodiment of the printer generally designated by reference numeral 200. While the embodiment of the printer 200 is located in the Fig. 1 As shown and described in connection with the first embodiment of the device 100, the further embodiments of the device 100 can also be attached (preferably alternately) to the embodiment of the printer 200.

[0125] The exemplary embodiment of the printer 200 comprises a printhead 202, a printing roller 204, a light barrier 212 for detecting the printing medium 208 (i.e., the material to be printed on), for example, for detecting control holes, (e.g., black) control markings, a beginning and / or an end of the printing medium 208. The printing material 206 is, for example, an ink ribbon.

[0126] The material 208 to be printed, together with the ribbon 206, is guided between the printhead 202 and the printing roller 204. During printing, the light barrier 212 can detect the beginning of the printing medium 208 to ensure that the printed image is positioned within the section of the printed product 214 by which the marking 101 is formed.

[0127] The printer 200 includes interfaces that are spatially assigned to and / or functionally equivalent to the interfaces of the device 100. The spatially assigned and / or functionally equivalent interfaces are connected or connectable in pairs.

[0128] The printer 200 preferably comprises a mechanical interface 252 which is connected to, or connectable to, or in communication with, or can be brought into communication with, the mechanical interface 152 of the device 100. Preferably, the spatial arrangement implies that when the mechanical interfaces 152 and 252 are connected (e.g., locked), the other interfaces of the device 100 and the printer 200 are also connected to or in communication with each other.

[0129] Alternatively or additionally, the printer 200 includes a data interface 258, which is connected or connectable to, or exchangeable with, the data interface 158 of the device 100. Alternatively or additionally, the printer 200 includes a material interface 256, which is connected or connectable to, or exchangeable with, the material interface 156 of the device 100.

[0130] For example, material interfaces 156 and 256 are connected or can be connected for the exchange of the printed product 214. Data interfaces 158 and 258 are connected for the exchange of measurement data from the respective sensors 104, 106 and / or 212 and / or control commands from the control unit 130 of the device and / or from a control unit 230 of the printer 200.

[0131] Optionally, the printer includes 200, as exemplified in Fig. 1 The diagram shows an interface 222 to a computer or computer network 300 (for example, an internet connection). The printer 200 (for example, its controller 230) can receive print jobs via interface 222.

[0132] The device 100 for providing the hose 101 as a marking, preferably for the circumferentially closed arrangement of the hose 101 around the conductor 102 (i.e. the application of the marking 101 on the conductor 102), is also referred to as the applicator.

[0133] An embodiment of the device 100 (for example, the aforementioned first embodiment of the device 100) or a printing system comprising an embodiment of the device 100 and an embodiment of the printer 200 (for example, the aforementioned embodiment of the printer 200) are configured to perform one or more of the following functions and process steps.

[0134] The device 100 and the printer 200 can alternately perform operations (also referred to as actions), i.e., a set of one or more process steps, particularly when providing the hose 101 or arranging the hose 101 (i.e., applying the marking 101 to the conductor 102). In doing so, the device 100 (or its controller 130) and the printer 200 (or its controller 230) communicate with each other via the data interfaces 158 and 258, respectively, for example, to exchange or coordinate parameters (also called operation parameters), the start, completion, and / or timing of the operations (preferably the next operation). The alternate execution of the operations can involve nested operation of the device 100 and the printer 200.

[0135] In a first implementation, an overall process control is stored in the printer 200, for example in the control unit 230 (preferably by means of firmware stored in the control unit 230) (e.g., implemented or stored in an executable format). The overall process control can include printing on the print medium 208 and applying the resulting printed product 214.

[0136] A sequence control for the device 100 can be stored (e.g., implemented or stored in an executable format) in the device 100 and / or in the printer 200. The sequence control for the device 100 can (preferably exclusively) comprise the provision or application of the marking 101 by means of the printed product 214 on the conductor 102. For example, the marking 101 is provided or positioned or applied on the conductor 102 by executing the sequence control of the device 100.

[0137] In other words, the execution of the sequence control of the device 100 can be carried out partially or completely in the device 100 or exclusively in the printer 200. In any case, the execution of the sequence control of the device 100 causes the marking 101 to be provided or applied to the conductor by means of the device 100.

[0138] In a first variant of the first implementation, the sequence control of the device 100 is stored in the printer 200. Preferably, the device 100 has no sequence control whatsoever, for example, no control unit 130. The printer's control unit 230 (for example, the firmware of the printer 200 in the control unit 230) is configured to control (or actuate) the actuators (for example, 120 and / or 122) and sensors (for example, 104 and / or 106) of the applicator 100 (preferably individually) via the data interfaces 158 and 258, or to query (or record) them (preferably individually).

[0139] In a second variant of the first implementation, the sequence control of the device 100 is stored within the device 100 (e.g., implemented or stored in an executable format). For example, the device 100 comprises the control unit 130 or the regulation unit 130, in which the sequence control of the device 100 is stored (e.g., implemented or stored in an executable format). Preferably, the control unit 130 or the regulation unit 130 is configured to control or regulate the provision or application. For the sake of simplicity and without limitation, reference is made herein to the control unit 130; that is, the function of a regulation is optionally included.

[0140] The execution of the sequence control (preferably in the control unit 130) is started by the printer 200 (for example, the control unit 230, preferably via the printer firmware). For this purpose, the device 100 can receive a control command via the data interface 158 or be powered via the electrical interface 154. As soon as an operation of the device 100 is required, the printer 200 (for example, the control unit 230, preferably via the printer firmware) sends a signal as a control command to the device 100 via the data interface 258 or 158.

[0141] Preferably, the printer 200 waits while the device 100 performs the requested operation (for example, initiated by a control command). As soon as the device 100 sends a signal via data interface 158 or 258 as a control command indicating the completion of the operation (e.g., reports), the printer 200 continues the execution of the overall process control.

[0142] Optionally, the signal from applicator 100 to printer 200 indicates the status of the operation's completion. For example, the status can indicate successful completion or an error that occurred during the operation.

[0143] In a second implementation, the device 100, for example the control unit 130 (preferably by means of firmware of the applicator 100), executes the entire sequence. In other words, the overall sequence control is stored (e.g., implemented or stored in an executable form) in the device 100, for example in the control unit 130 (preferably by means of firmware stored in the control unit 130). By executing the overall sequence control, the device 100 controls the entire sequence.

[0144] Printer 200 functions as a slave in the overall process. For example, printer 200 has control over the print image; that is, printer 200 (preferably its control unit 230) executes the printing as an operation of printer 200 in response to a corresponding control command from device 100. Optionally, printer 200 issues a control command (i.e., an initial start command) to execute the overall process control, for example, because only printer 200 knows about the content and / or the existence of a print job.

[0145] To implement the nested operation, the device 100 and the printer 200 exchange information (e.g., measurement data and / or control commands) via the data interface 158 and 258, respectively.

[0146] The exchanged information can include measured values ​​(e.g., electrical voltages, electrical currents, electrical frequencies), preferably measured values ​​from sensor 104 and / or 106, which are transmitted (i.e., sent) from the device 100 to the printer 200. Alternatively or additionally, measured values ​​from a sensor of the printer 200 (e.g., the light barrier 212) can be transmitted (i.e., sent) from the printer 200 to the device 100. Based on the measured values, the device 100 or the printer 200 can determine (e.g., calculate) parameters of the sequence control and / or forward the measured values ​​or the parameters via interface 222 to the computer or computer network 300 (e.g., to application software).

[0147] For example, the sensor 106 can detect the diameter or circumference of the conductor 102 (or the prolate object around its longitudinal axis). The control unit 130 and / or the control unit 230 can determine the length of a feed of the pressure medium 208 and / or a selection of the pressure medium 208, for example depending on the detected diameter or circumference.

[0148] Furthermore, these measured values ​​can be transmitted as a digital signal (for example, either as state "0" or state "1") at data interfaces 158 and 258, respectively, when a defined threshold is exceeded, in order to indicate to the other device (printer 200 or device 100) that a defined state (for example, the completion of an operation) has been reached. For example, the reaching of an end position or a reference point of an actuator (for example, actuator 120 and / or 122) can be indicated.

[0149] A reference run of an actuator of the applicator 100 (for example, actuator 120 and / or 122) can be used to mechanically move the actuator (i.e., a drive connected to a mechanism of the applicator 100) to a specific position of the actuator (i.e., the mechanism), which is referred to as the reference position. A control command from the printer 200 or a procedural step of the operation, sequence control, and / or overall sequence control performed by the applicator 100 can include a movement (for example, a travel command) of the actuator, with the reference position serving as the reference point for the movements.

[0150] If the control unit 130 of the device 100 (for example, the applicator firmware) calculates one or more parameters for deployment or application (i.e., sequence control) from measured values ​​(which were, for example, transmitted by the printer 200 or acquired by the sensor 104 and / or 106), this parameter(s) can be transmitted to the control unit 230 of the printer 200 (preferably to its printer firmware) via data interfaces 158 and 258 according to a communication protocol. Furthermore, the control unit 130 of the device 100 (preferably its applicator firmware) can also use measurement data acquired by the printer 200 (for example, measurement data from the light barrier 212) to control the sequence control of the device 100 (for example, as parameters for deployment or application).

[0151] The printer 200 can be configured to print normal labels, for example, when no device 100 is attached to the mechanical interface 152 and / or the data interface 158.

[0152] The printer 200 can be a thermal transfer printer. The thermal transfer printer can provide high-contrast and durable marking (101). The printer 200 can, for example, be a thermal transfer roll printer.

[0153] The exemplary embodiment of the printer 200 comprises a dispenser 216 of the printing medium 208 arranged in front of the printhead 202, a dispenser 218 of the printing material 206 arranged in front of the printhead 202, and a rewinder 220 of the printing material 206 arranged after the printhead 202.

[0154] An electrical interface 254 of the printer 200 is designed to supply the device 100 attached to the printer 200 with electrical energy via its electrical interface 154.

[0155] The Fig. 2 and 3 show a schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of the device 100 for providing) a printed marking in a first state or second state of provisioning (for example, application).

[0156] The second embodiment of the device 100 can be implemented independently or as a further development of the first embodiment of the device 100. Features of the first and second embodiments of the device 100, which are designated with the same reference numerals, can be identical or interchangeable.

[0157] The second embodiment of the device 100 is configured to provide a hose (for example, a heat-shrink tube) as a printing medium 208, a printed hose as a printed product 214, or an open hose 101 as a marking, and / or to slide or attach it to the conductor 102. During printing on the hose and / or cutting (for example, by means of the first actuator 120 of the device 100), the hose is pressed flat, which may result in its cut end, or at least a section of the printed hose, being closed, i.e., the cut edge or the inner surfaces of the hose 214 (i.e., the upper and lower halves of the hose 214) adhering to one another.

[0158] The second actuator, as an opening unit 122, is designed to open the adhering cut edge of the printed tube and / or the adhering inner surfaces (i.e., the tube halves) of the printed tube 214. For this purpose, the opening unit 122 comprises (preferably tapered) rollers 123 which, in pairs, exert a force on the edge of the tube on opposite lateral edges of the printed tube 214 in order to open the cut edge of the tube and / or separate the inner surfaces of the tube from each other. In the schematic representation of the Fig. 2 and 3 Each pair of rollers 123 arranged on opposite sides is visible, since the pairs are aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or direction of movement 210.

[0159] In the Fig. 3In the second state shown, the printed hose 214 is opened by means of the opening unit 122, provided as a marking 101 due to a feed (for example, of the opening unit 122 and / or the printer 200) and arranged closed around the conductor 102 (for example, pushed onto the conductor 102) and cut off at the end by means of the cutting unit 120.

[0160] The rollers 123 are rotatable about rotation axes 123A perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 and to the transverse direction 121 (for example, vertical), preferably driven to advance the printed hose 214.

[0161] Fig. 4Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of a third embodiment of the device 100 for providing a hose, for identification purposes. The third embodiment of the device 100 can be implemented independently or as a further development of the first and / or second embodiment of the device 100. Features of the first, second, and / or third embodiments of the device 100, which are designated with the same reference numerals, can be identical or interchangeable.

[0162] The device 100 comprises a printhead 202 or a material interface 156 for receiving a tube as the printed product 214 from a printhead, a cutting unit 120 and an opening unit 122. The opening unit 122 may include a roller aisle with rollers 123.

[0163] Optionally, a roller arrangement 240 (preferably a roller pair arrangement) is integrated into the transport process. The roller arrangement 240 comprises at least two roller pairs, for example, 2 or 3 roller pairs. A first roller pair 242 is arranged in the transverse direction 121 (for example, horizontally). A further roller pair 242 (in the longitudinal direction 210) is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 and perpendicular to the transverse direction 121 (for example, vertically).

[0164] The roller assembly 240 can be arranged in front of the flattening device 160. An optional third pair of rollers 246 (counted in the longitudinal direction 210) of the roller assembly 240 can be arranged in the transverse direction 121 (for example, horizontally).

[0165] The axes of rotation of each pair of rollers are parallel to each other. The rollers of a pair of rollers are arranged to convey the printed hose 214, for example, spaced apart and / or subjected to force perpendicular to their respective axes of rotation.

[0166] Optionally, the horizontal roller pair can form the compartment holding unit 160. At least the roller pair with a vertical axis of rotation can have rollers with a circumferential groove.

[0167] Preferably, the opening unit 122 or the flattening unit 160 is configured to expand the hose 124 by heating it on one side. For example, the flattening unit 160 comprises a heating element 162 (preferably a heating wire). The heating element 162 can be arranged in a stationary and / or longitudinally movable hold-down edge (for example, the hold-down edges 700 and / or 710 described below) within the flattening unit 160 or at a distance from it. Due to the one-sided heating, the hose 214 (for example, a heat-shrink tube) contracts on one side and inevitably bulges out.

[0168] Optionally, air can be blown onto or into a cut end of the hose 214 in the opposite direction to open the upper and lower hose halves. Alternatively or additionally, the opening unit 122 can include a needle wheel or needle wheels that pierce the hose 214 and open and / or expand it as it is advanced.

[0169] The hose 214 can be detected optically, inductively or capacitively using the inserted conductor 101.

[0170] The opening rollers 123 are preferably movable in the transverse direction 121, for example the opening rollers 123 exert a predetermined and / or controlled force on the longitudinal edge of the printed tube 214.

[0171] The provision of the opened, cut, and printed tube 101 (for example, including printing using the printer 200) can be controlled or initiated by a sensor 106. The sensor 106 can detect the presence of the conductor 102 (for example, without contact). Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 106 can include a push button (also: operating button) that is pressed by a user as a control signal for provision (i.e., a provision request). The operating button can be positioned so that it can be pressed by the hand holding the conductor 102.

[0172] The opening process can be assisted by pulling on the outer surfaces, i.e., the upper and lower hose halves. Optionally, the opening unit 122 or a vacuum opening unit 170 includes two or at least two suction cups that are pressed onto the surface of the hose (for example, onto the upper and lower hose halves).

[0173] Alternatively or additionally, air can be blown in against the conveying direction 210, i.e., at the end where the hose is cut. In this case, the longitudinal edges (i.e., the outer edges) of the hose are fixed in the opening rollers 123 (for example, the roller pairs of the opening unit 122), and the hose must not protrude from the opening unit 122 (i.e., the last roller pair in the conveying direction 210) or not protrude too far.

[0174] Fig. 5A shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary opening unit 122, which can be used in embodiments of the device.

[0175] The opening unit 122 comprises opening rollers 123 which, through a preload in the transverse direction 121 towards the hose 214, generate a flexing action and thereby open or pre-open the hose 214, which is (preferably by means of the flattening unit 160) flattened. The opening or pre-opening can be carried out by a movement profile of the opening rollers 123. The movement profile can be part of the supply process. The opening rollers 123 are driven by a motor to rotate about the axes of rotation 123A. Synchronous rotation of the rollers 123 is achieved via gears or a belt drive.

[0176] The opening rollers 123 are preferably profiled, e.g. V-shaped or waisted.

[0177] Preferably, the hose 214 (for example, a heat shrink tube) is only opened from the outside.

[0178] The opening rollers 123 press the hose 214 open at specific points from the outside. Alternatively or additionally, the hose 214 can be opened by a line contact from the outside. The latter can be achieved, for example, by belts around the opening rollers 123. The belts can be flat belts or (for example, like the opening rollers 123) profiled.

[0179] The opening unit 122 comprises slides 124 that are movable in the transverse direction 121. For example, the slides 124 are movably driven by means of a linear drive 126 by a drive 128 of the slides 124. A transverse guide 127 of the slides 124 can include sliding bearings.

[0180] The carriages 124 can assume at least one of the following positions or orientations, for example, controlled by the control unit 130 and / or 230: In a conveying position, the hose 214 can be moved forward and / or backward in the longitudinal direction 210 by rotating the rollers 123. In a walking position, the hose 214 can be walked to open it. The walking position and conveying position of the carriages can be the same. In a release position, the carriages can move apart, for example, to remove the opened hose 101.

[0181] The opening rollers 123 are positioned on movable carriages 124, which allow the hose 214 to be opened further. The carriages 124 can be motor-driven. The opening rollers 123 are positioned on movable carriages, which allow them to automatically adapt to different hose sizes (width adjustment), for example, depending on the width of the hose 214 measured by a width sensor.

[0182] The control unit 130 and / or 230 can be configured to move the opening rollers 123 according to a motion profile. The motion profile is a combination of a longitudinal feed movement 210 by rotating the opening rollers 123 and a movement of the carriages 124 on which the opening rollers 123 are rotatably mounted. The motion profile(s) allow the hose 214 to be opened, pushed onto the ladder 102 (e.g., provided on the ladder 102), and / or removed from the applicator (e.g., provided in a position that allows it to be arranged).

[0183] The motion profile can be adjusted (i.e., dynamically detected) by measuring (preferably by means of sensors 104, 106 and / or 212) material dimensions, such as the width of the hose 214, during the execution of the motion profile (i.e., dynamically).

[0184] The hose width can be obtained from print data (for example, from printer 200 or computer or computer network 300) and / or detected by a width sensor (for example, one of sensors 104, 106, and / or 212). The width sensor can be a line sensor (for example, with a charge-coupled component or CCD) or a camera (for example, with a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor or CMOS).

[0185] The width sensor (for example, the line sensor) is located directly at the material interface 156 or 256 (i.e., the printer outlet 200) or between the flattening unit 160 and the opening unit 122 (i.e., in front of the first pair of opening rollers in the feed direction 210). The width sensor can also be used to control the motion profile.

[0186] The sensor 106 can be configured to detect that an object 102 to be marked (for example, the conductor, preferably a cable) is (or is being) inserted into the device 100 or is (or is being) inserted into the provided open hose 101.

[0187] The movement profile can be controlled by means of the sensor 106. For example, the positioning (e.g., threading) of the provided open hose 101 (i.e., a section of hose) on the conductor 102 and / or the release of the hose 101 arranged on the conductor 102 can be controlled by moving the opening rollers 123 laterally away (i.e., by moving the carriages 124 apart in a transverse direction 121).

[0188] The sensor 106 can be displaceable in the feed direction 210, for example so that the conductor 102 (e.g. application-specific and / or user-controlled) can be inserted or placed into the device 100 to different distances against the longitudinal direction 210 before the movement profile is initiated or continued in response to the detection of the conductor 102 (as a control signal for provision).

[0189] Sensor 106 can include a sensor for detecting conductor 102. The sensor can detect conductor 102 inductively, capacitively, optically, and / or tactilely. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor can implement at least one of the following sensor options.

[0190] For a first sensor option, the sensor 106 is arranged between two adjacent pairs of rollers of the opening unit 160 (i.e., opening rollers 123 that bear against or can be brought into contact with the hose 214 at points opposite each other in the transverse direction 121). The sensor 106 (for example, a capacitive or inductive sensor) measures whether a conductor 102 has been inserted. By using several sensors 106, the user can determine how far the conductor 102 should be inserted before triggering (i.e., initiating) the deployment (for example, of the motion profile).

[0191] For a second sensor option, the sensor 106 (for example a capacitive or inductive sensor) measures perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 (preferably also perpendicular to the transverse direction 121, for example in a vertical direction) whether the conductor 102 has been inserted into the device 100 as the object to be marked.

[0192] Optionally, the sensor 106 can be moved in the longitudinal direction 210, allowing the user to determine how far the conductor 102 should be inserted before initiating the provisioning (for example, before triggering the motion profile).

[0193] Alternatively or additionally, as a third sensor option, the width sensor (which is designed to measure the hose width) can also detect the presence of conductor 102. For example, the width sensor can detect conductor 102 if conductor 102 is to be fully inserted into hose 101.

[0194] In one variant of each of the aforementioned sensor options, the sensor 106 includes a light barrier (for example, to detect the conductor 102 in transmitted light or reflectively).

[0195] Optionally, the user (i.e., the operator of the device 100) can influence the deployment (preferably the movement profile) by entering data. The data input (for example, at a user interface of the device 100, a user interface of the printer 200, a user interface of the printing system, and / or via the computer or computer network 300) can include parameters of the deployment (preferably the movement profile). The parameters can include an opening width (for example, of the opened hose 101) and / or an output position (for example, in the longitudinal direction 210) of the deployed hose 101. For example, the parameters can be changed and / or saved during operation.

[0196] The parameters (also referred to as operation parameters) can be application-specific or article-specific. The operation parameters can be stored in the device 100, the printer 200, or the controlling software of the computer 300. The parameters can control the deployment (for example, the motion profile). The parameters can control or influence the forward or backward movement of the hose and / or the flexing of the hose. Alternatively or additionally, the parameters can determine whether clamping or flattening of the hose and / or pre-opening should be performed.

[0197] In each embodiment, the insertion of the conductor 102 can be supported by optical aids, e.g., reflective surfaces, a magnifying glass, and / or a camera (whose image can be transmitted to the printer via the data interface 158 or 258 and / or displayed on a screen 209 of the printer 200). Reflective surfaces allow the user to see the back side of the conductor 102.

[0198] In each embodiment, an object centering unit 180 (also: centering aid) can be provided for inserting or positioning the conductor 102. The object centering unit 180 can be arranged longitudinally 210 after the opening unit 122.

[0199] Fig. 5BFigure 1 shows a schematic view of a first exemplary object centering unit 180, which can be used in embodiments of the device 100. The object centering unit 180 can comprise one or more plug-in templates, each with a recess, an adjustable recess, and / or a wheel (rotatable about the longitudinal direction 210) with several recesses.

[0200] Alternatively or additionally, a sleeve or clamping jaw can be pushed through the hose 101, which grips the conductor 102 and pulls it through the hose 101.

[0201] Fig. 5CFigure 1 shows a schematic view of a second exemplary object centering unit 180, which can be used in embodiments of the device. The object centering unit comprises two movable prism halves 182 and 184, which preferably move together with the slides 124. This aids in centering the conductor 102, making it easier to insert into the tube 101. Preferably, the two prism halves 182 and 184 are each moved with one of the slides 124 (for example, attached to the respective slide 124). Alternatively or additionally, scissors can be used instead of the prism halves.

[0202] Optionally, in each embodiment of the device 100, a unit can be installed which is designed to shrink the hose 101 at the end of the provision, for example by heating it.

[0203] Fig. 6AFigure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary cutting unit 120 of the device 100 for providing the hose 101, for identification purposes. The cutting unit 120 can (for example, in addition to the opening unit 122) be an example of an actuator of the device 100.

[0204] The cutting unit 120 comprises a longitudinally movable blade 600 (also: knife), guided, for example, in at least two or four guides 602. The guides 602 can be arranged in pairs on longitudinal edges of the blade 600 opposite each other in the transverse direction 121.

[0205] The blade 600 is preferably longitudinally movable perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 and perpendicular to the transverse direction 121.

[0206] The movable blade 600 includes a cutting edge 604. The printed tube 214 is cut by shear forces between the longitudinally movable blade 600 and a stationary blade 610. A cutting edge of the stationary blade 610 can be parallel to the transverse direction 121.

[0207] The cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 can be parallel to the transverse direction 121 and / or parallel to the cutting edge of the stationary blade 610. In other words, the cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 can be perpendicular to the cutting direction (i.e., the direction of movement of the longitudinally movable blade 600).

[0208] Alternatively, as schematically shown in Fig. 6AAs shown, the cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 forms an angle (preferably acute) with the transverse direction 121 and / or with the cutting edge of the stationary blade 610. In other words, the cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 can be arranged obliquely to the transverse direction 121. The acute angle can be less than 60° or less than 45°. For example, the angle can be less than 30°, preferably between 5° and 10°. In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally to the cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600, the cutting edge of the stationary blade 610 is arranged obliquely to the transverse direction 121.

[0209] Preferably, the longitudinally movable blade 600 has a guide pin 606 arranged to guide the longitudinally movable blade 600 past the stationary blade 610 without gaps or jamming. In other words, the guide pin 606 is designed so that the longitudinally movable blade 600 does not collide with the stationary blade 610 when the longitudinally movable blade 600 slides over the stationary blade 610 to cut the tube 214. Preferably, the guide pin 606 projects beyond the cutting edge 604 in the direction of movement of the longitudinally movable blade 600. In other words, the guide pin 606 is positioned ahead of the cutting edge.

[0210] A drive 608 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 is powered by the electrical interface 154 and / or controlled by the control unit 130 and / or 230.

[0211] Fig. 6BFigure 1 shows examples of fasteners, for instance, for attaching the flattening unit 160 to the cutting unit 120 of the device 100. For example, recesses are provided in the cutting unit 120 into which screws 612 protrude for fastening the flattening unit 160, optionally with spacers 614. By removing the fasteners 612 and 614, the blades 600 and 610 can be easily changed.

[0212] Fig. 6C Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a first exemplary combination of blades 600 and 610, which can be combined with the example of the cutting unit 120. Preferably, a single-angled embodiment (i.e., a combination of blades 600 and 610 in which one cutting edge is parallel to the transverse direction 121 and one is angled) includes the guide pin 604 so that the movable blade 600 does not collide with the stationary blade 610 (also: counter-holder).

[0213] Fig. 6DFigure 1 shows a schematic view of a second exemplary combination of blades 600 and 610, which can be combined with the example of the cutting unit 120. The cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 can be V-shaped. This allows the hose 214 to be cut without slipping in the transverse direction 121 (also: centering functionality). Preferably, the ends of the V-shaped cutting edge 604 overlap with the cutting edge of the stationary blade 610 in the open state (i.e., before cutting). This allows the functionality of the guide pin 604 and the centering functionality to be realized without additional components.

[0214] Fig. 6EFigure 1 shows a schematic view of a third exemplary combination of blades 600 and 610, which can be combined with the example of the cutting unit 120. The blade shapes can be double-angled. For example, the cutting edge 604 of the longitudinally movable blade 600 and the cutting edge of the stationary blade 610 can each be V-shaped. The ends of the V-shaped cutting edges of the blades 600 and 610 can overlap in pairs when open.

[0215] Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary flat holding unit 160 (also: hold-down unit or hold-down device) of the device 100. The flat holding unit 160 can be an example of an actuator of the device 100 (for example, in addition to the actuator 120 and / or 122).

[0216] The clamping unit 160 is designed to selectively clamp the hose 214. The clamping unit 160 is preferably arranged close to the opening unit 160, for example, one or a few diameters of the hose 214 away from the opening unit 160 in the longitudinal direction 210. This means that when the longitudinal edges of the hose 214 are pressed by the opening rollers 123, the clamping unit 160 is not too far away, so that the hose 214 (for example, on the inlet side of the opening unit 160) remains held flat or is flattened. Holding or flattening can be achieved by clamping edges 700 and 710 extending in the transverse direction 121, for example, as schematically shown in Fig. 7A shown, or a roller (instead of one of the hold-down edges 700 and 710) or a pair of rollers (instead of both hold-down edges 700 and 710) may be implemented.

[0217] The hold-down edges can comprise a longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700 and a stationary hold-down edge 710. Preferably, the longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700 is longitudinally movable perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 210 (i.e., the feed direction) of the hose 214 and perpendicular to the transverse direction 121.

[0218] Preferably, a longitudinally movable frame 702 comprises the longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700. Alternatively or in combination, a stationary frame 712 comprises the stationary hold-down edge 710.

[0219] A spring-elastic coupling 704 (for example according to Fig. 7A , in which the coupling 704 is disengaged) between the longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700 and the stationary hold-down edge 710 (for example between the longitudinally movable frame 702 and the stationary frame 712) exerts force on the longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700 in the direction of an open position, i.e. to separate the hold-down edges 700 and 710.

[0220] Preferably, the drive 608 of the cutting unit 120 also drives the flattening unit. For example, the longitudinally movable blade 600 includes a stop 616 arranged to move the longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700 (for example, the longitudinally movable frame 702) against the force of the spring-elastic coupling 704 into a closed position in which the hold-down edges 700 and 710 hold the tube 214 flat. For example, after cutting, the drive 608 can further move the longitudinally movable blade 600 out of a conveying plane of the tube 214 (i.e., away from the tube 214), with the stop 616 moving the longitudinally movable frame 702 into the closed position of the flattening unit 160.

[0221] When cutting (which, for example, precedes holding flat with regard to the provision of a marking 101), stop 616 and longitudinally movable frame 702 can be out of engagement.

[0222] Fig. 7B Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of an exemplary opening unit 122 of the device 100 for providing a hose. Alternatively or additionally to a heating element 162 in the flattening unit 160, heating elements 162 can be arranged in the slide 124 of the opening unit 122. The optional heating element 162 of the flattening unit 160 preferably acts perpendicular to the transverse direction on the hose 214 to open it, for example from above or from below. The optional heating elements 162 of the opening unit 122 preferably act on the hose 214 on sides opposite it in the transverse direction 121 to open it, for example horizontally.

[0223] Fig. 8A Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of an exemplary roller pair arrangement 240 of the printer 200 and / or the device 100 for providing a hose as an identifier. Fig. 8Bshows a schematic perspective view of the exemplary role pair arrangement of the Fig. 8A .

[0224] Optionally, the roller pair arrangement 240, or at least one of the horizontal roller pairs 242 and 246, can be part of the device 100 as a tray holding unit 160. Alternatively or additionally, the roller pair arrangement 240 can be part of the printer 200, for example according to Fig. 4 The rollers of each or individual pairs of rollers may each have a circumferential groove or waist.

[0225] The distances between the rollers of each of several pairs of rollers 244 can decrease in the longitudinal direction, as shown schematically using the rollers 244' (V-arrangement).

[0226] Fig. 9 shows another embodiment of the printer 200, which can be used independently or as a further development of the one in the context of the Fig. 1The described embodiment of printer 200 can be implemented as follows. Features of the embodiments designated with the same reference numerals may be identical or interchangeable. The further embodiment of printer 200 is an example of a thermal transfer roll printer.

[0227] A control unit 230 of the printer 200 controls, depending on the signals from the light barrier 212 and / or control commands received via the data interface 258 from the device 100 (i.e., via the data interface 158 of the device 100), a feed and / or a retraction of the printing medium 208 at the printhead 202 or of the printed product 214 at the material interface 256 (and consequently at the material interface 156 of the device 100). For this purpose, the control unit 230 can control a drive (for example, a stepper motor) to rotate the printing roller 204.

[0228] The light barrier 212 can be arranged in front of the printhead 202 and / or the printing roller 204 with respect to a direction of movement 210 of the printing medium 208 during the feed. The light barrier 212 can be, as shown by way of example in the Fig. 6 The diagram shows a light source 212A on the side of the printhead 202 and a light sensor 212B on the side of the printing roller 204. In a first variant, the positions of light source 212A and light sensor 212B can be reversed. In a second variant, light source 212A and light sensor 212B can be arranged on the same side to detect the print medium 208 in reflection.

[0229] The printhead 202 comprises a number of heating elements. When the heating elements are heated (e.g., energized) and the print roller 204 exerts a predetermined (e.g., sufficiently high) pressure on the printing medium 208, the color pigments are transferred from the printing material 206 (e.g., an ink ribbon) to the material to be printed. The control unit 230 can control the stepper motor for rotating the print roller 204 and control the energization of the heating elements of the printhead 202.

[0230] The printing material 206 can comprise several layers. For example, the printing material 206 can comprise a support material 206A (e.g., a carrier film) facing away from the printing medium 208 and a color layer 206B (e.g., a colored wax) facing the printing medium 208.

[0231] The printer 200 is preferably a table-top device to which the device 100 can be attached as an interchangeable module, for example, application-specific or for the duration of a uniform application process.

[0232] Fig. 10A Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary printing system comprising an embodiment of the printer 200 and an embodiment of the device 100 for providing a hose, designated 101, in an assembled position. Fig. 10B shows a schematic perspective view of the exemplary printing system of the Fig. 10A in a disassembled position.

[0233] Each embodiment of the device 100 can be used by the following operating steps B1 to B17 and / or perform the following steps.

[0234] B1: The operator generates the print data on a PC 300 or a mobile device 300, for example a tablet computer or mobile phone. The printing material is selected at this stage, and the hose size and / or hose type is taken into account accordingly.

[0235] B2: The operator mounts the device 100 on the printer 200.

[0236] B3: The operator places the printing material into the printer 200, guides the printing material 208 between the printhead 202 and the ribbon 206, adjusts the material guide and optionally other settings, and closes the printhead 202.

[0237] B4: The operator switches on printer 200.

[0238] B5: The printer 200 (for example, the controller 230) detects the device 100 (for example, as an applicator) via the data interfaces 158 and 258, and initializes the printer 200 and the device 100.

[0239] B6: The operator sends a print job to the printer 200 via the print function of a computer 300 (for example, a PC) or a mobile device 300 (for example, a device 300 connected to the printer 200 via a wireless network or a mobile network).

[0240] B7: The printer 200 detects the beginning of the printing material 208 via the light barrier 212 or alternatively performs a reference cut (for example, using the cutting unit 120 of the device 100 or another cutting unit of the printer 200). The reference cut can produce a piece of tubing of a manually removable length.

[0241] B8: The printer 200 prints on a first hose section or hose piece 214.

[0242] B9: The printer 200 transports the tube section 214 (through the material interfaces 156 or 256) to the interface of the tube or to the cutting position of the cutting unit 120.

[0243] B10: The device 100 (for example controlled by the control unit 130) cuts off the hose 214.

[0244] B11: The device 100 (for example controlled by the control unit 130) takes over the cut-off printed hose piece by means of the opener rollers 123.

[0245] B12: The printer 200 pulls the printing material 208 back to the printing start of the next tube section during this time (for example, during provision by the device 100).

[0246] B13: The device 100 executes a specific movement profile, depending, for example, on the material 208. The provision (e.g., the movement profile) can include a lateral lift, holding the hose flat by means of the flattening unit 160, pressing the opening rollers by moving the carriages 124 in the transverse direction 121, flexing the hose by rotating the opening rollers 123, for example, with forward and backward movement of the hose in the longitudinal direction 210, pre-opening the hose in the clamped or flattened state, pre-opening by means of a suction cup, and / or pre-opening by means of the heating element 162.

[0247] B14: The device 100 provides the open hose 101 to arrange (e.g., thread) the hose 101 onto the object 102 (for example, a support, preferably a conductor, e.g., a cable).

[0248] B15. The user acknowledges (for example, by means of the button as sensor 106) that the object 102 is positioned (for example, inserted into the device 100), and / or the device 100 detects the presence of the object 102 by means of the sensor 106.

[0249] B16: The device 100 releases the arrangeable hose 101 or transports the hose 101 (i.e., hose section) to the inserted conductor 102, for example, to thread the conductor 102 into the hose 101.

[0250] B17: The next print job can be started.

[0251] For one or more print jobs (for the provision of one or more tubes 101), a nested process preferably takes place between device 100 and printer 200. For a print job involving multiple tubes 101, a nested process preferably takes place between device 100 and printer 200, so that the next tube 214 can be printed immediately after the previous tube 101 has been cut and the printing material 208 has been withdrawn, and can then be fed to the device 100.

[0252] The Fig. 11A and 11B Figure 1 shows a first and second section of a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 1100 for providing a hose as labeled 101. The method 1100 can be implemented as a sequence control in the control 130 of the device 100 and / or the control 230 of the printer 200. Fig. 12A and 12BVertical bars indicate a corresponding action, while horizontal arrows represent corresponding communication. The "message" can include a control command. "Flattening" can refer to keeping the area flat.

[0253] A method 1100 executed by the device 100, preferably by the control 130, can comprise at least one of the following steps S1 to S24.

[0254] S1: The device 100, which can also be called a sleeve opener, is initialized, for example switched on and / or mounted on a printer 200.

[0255] S2: At least one or each of the actuators (e.g., drives and / or motors) of the device 100 is referenced, for example, by performing a reference run.

[0256] S3: A control command to execute a feed of the printing medium 208 by the printer 200 (for a reference cut) is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0257] S4: A signal (for example as a control command) to complete the feed is received by the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0258] S5: The reference cut is performed, preferably using the cutting unit 120.

[0259] S6: A signal (for example as a control command) to indicate readiness for a print job and / or readiness to provide a label 101 is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0260] S7: A control command for executing a print job and / or providing the identifier 101 is received by the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158. The received control command can include at least one parameter of the print job and / or the provision.

[0261] S8: At least one or each of the actuators (for example, drives and / or motors) of the device 100, preferably the longitudinally movable blade 600 and / or the flattening unit 160 and / or the slides 124 of the opening unit 122, is moved into an open position to receive a printed hose 214.

[0262] If a flat position (e.g., as a parameter) is not set, steps S9 and S10 are executed.

[0263] S9: A control command to execute a feed of the printing medium 208 by the printer 200 (for cutting the tube 214) is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0264] S10: A signal (for example as a control command) to complete the feed (for cutting) is received by the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0265] If a flat position (for example as a parameter) is set, steps S11 and S15 are executed.

[0266] S11: A control command to execute a feed of the printing medium 208 by the printer 200 (for keeping the tube 214 flat) is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0267] S12: A signal (for example as a control command) to complete the feed (for keeping flat) is received by the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0268] S13: The flattening is carried out, preferably using the flattening unit 160.

[0269] S14: A control command to execute a feed (for example, a differential feed between the flattening position and the cutting position) of the printing medium 208 by the printer 200 (for cutting the tube 214) is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0270] S15: A signal (for example as a control command) to complete the feed (for cutting) is received by the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0271] S16: At least one or each of the actuators (for example, drives and / or motors) of the device 100, preferably the longitudinally movable blade 600 and / or the flat holding unit 160 and / or the slides 124 of the opening unit 122, is moved into a holding position to hold the printed tube 214, preferably by means of the hold-down edges 700 and 710.

[0272] S17: The printed hose 214 is cut, preferably using the cutting unit 120.

[0273] S18: A signal (for example as a control command) to complete the cut is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0274] S19: The cut printed tube 214 is conveyed to an output position, preferably by means of the opening unit 122.

[0275] If a walking function (for example as a parameter) is set, step S20 is executed.

[0276] S20: The cut printed hose 214 is rolled, for example by means of the opening unit 122.

[0277] S21: At least one or each of the actuators (for example, drives and / or motors) of the device 100, preferably the longitudinally movable blade 600 and / or the flat holding unit 160 and / or the slides 124 of the opening unit 122, is moved into an open position (for example, by spatially separating the hold-down edges 700 and 710).

[0278] If a release condition (for example as a parameter) is set, step S22 is executed.

[0279] S22: At least one or each of the actuators (for example, drives and / or motors) of the device 100, preferably the slides 124 and / or the opening unit 122, is moved into a release position (for example, by spatially separating the slides 124).

[0280] S23: At least one or each of the actuators (e.g., drives and / or motors) of the device 100 is referenced, for example, by performing a reference run.

[0281] S24: A signal (for example as a control command) to indicate readiness for a print job and / or readiness to provide a label 101 is sent to the printer 200, preferably via the data interface 158.

[0282] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art that various modifications can be made. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt a specific printing method on the hose or a specific printing material to the teaching of the invention. Consequently, the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments but encompasses all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims. Reference symbol list Device for providing a marking, for example applicator or printing system 100 Opened and printed hose as a marker 101 Prolates object, preferably a conductor, for example a copper conductor or fiber optic cable 102 Pressure signal interface of a control signal for output of the printed hose, for example sensor for detecting the printed hose 104 Sensor of a control signal for providing the identification, for example detection of the object or provision request. 106 Cutting unit of the device 120 transverse direction 121 Opening unit of the device 122 Opener roller, preferably tapered roller, of the opener unit 123 pivot point of the opener roller 123A Slide of the opening unit 124 Linear gears of the slides 126 Transverse guidance of the sleds 127 Drive of the sleds 128 Control unit or regulating unit of the device 130 Mechanical interface of the device 152 Electrical interface of the device 154 Material interface of the device 156 Pressure signal interface of a control signal for output of the printed tube, for example data interface of the device 158 Flat holding unit 160 Heating element, preferably in a flat holding unit or opening unit 162 Vacuum opener unit 170 Object centering unit 180 First prism half of the object centering 182 Second prism half of the object centering 184 Printers, for example thermal transfer printers 200 Printer printhead 202 Printer's printing roller 204 Printing material, for example ribbon 206 Carrier material of the printing material, for example carrier film 206A Color layer of the printing material, for example, colored wax 206B Printer's printing medium (also: printing material) 208 Display, preferably user interface, of the printer 209 Feed direction or longitudinal direction of the pressure medium 210 printer's light barrier 212 Light source of the light barrier 212A Light sensor of the light barrier 212B Printed hose as a printed product of the printer 214 Dispenser of the printed medium 216 Dispenser of the printed material 218 Rewinder of the printed material 220 Printer's data interface 222 Printer control unit 230 Role arrangement 240 First pair of rollers, preferably horizontal pair of rollers 242 Second pair of rollers, preferably a vertical pair of rollers 244 Third pair of rollers, preferably horizontal pair of rollers 246 Mechanical interface of the printer 252 Electrical interface of the printer 254 Printer's material interface 256 Printer's data interface 258 Computer or computer network 300 Movable blade 600 Guiding the movable blade 602 Cutting edge of the movable blade 604 Guide pin of the movable blade 606 Drive cutting unit and / or flattening unit, for example the movable blade 608 Stationary blade 610 Screw for attaching the flat holding unit 612 Spacer sleeve for attaching the flat holding unit 614 Stop for flat holding unit 616 Longitudinally movable hold-down edge 700 Longitudinally movable frame of the hold-down edge 702 Spring-elastic coupling between hold-down edges 704 Stationary hold-down edge 710 Stationary frame of the hold-down edge 712

Claims

1. Device (100) for providing a tube which is arranged or arrangeable circumferentially closed around a prolate object (102), preferably around a conductor, as a label (101) of the object (102), comprising: a printer (200) which is configured to output a printed tube (214) in a longitudinal direction (210) or a material interface (156) which is configured to receive a printed tube (214) output by a printer (200) in a longitudinal direction (210); a cutting unit (120) which is configured to cut through the printed tube (214) at a cutting position of the tube (214) in a transverse direction (121) transversely, perpendicularly, to the longitudinal direction (210) of the tube (214), wherein at least at the cutting position an upper tube half and a lower tube half of the tube (214) lie against one another or are connected to one another, at an end side and / or on an inner side; and an opening unit (122) which is configured for opening the upper and lower tube halves, which comprises at least two opener rollers (123) rotatable about a respective axis of rotation (123A), wherein the respective axis of rotation (123A) is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (210) and to the transverse direction (121), and wherein the at least two opener rollers (123) are configured to bear against the cut printed tube on mutually opposite sides in the transverse direction (121), wherein the opener rollers (123) are set up to press the tube (214) punctiformly from the outside; a flat holding unit (160) which is configured to prevent bulging of the tube (214) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (210) and / or perpendicular to the transverse direction (121); wherein the device (100) comprises an additional unit between the flat holding unit (160) and the opening unit (122), wherein the flat holding unit (160) comprises a heating element (162) or the additional unit comprises a heating element (162) which is configured to heat the tube (214) on one side, preferably the upper tube half or the lower tube half, for local deformation of the tube (214), preferably for local contraction of the tube (214).

2. Device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the opener rollers (123) bear in pairs against mutually opposite locations on the cut printed tube perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (210).

3. Device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: an object centering unit (180) which is configured to arrange the prolate object (102), preferably the conductor, aligned or coaxial with the cut printed tube (101).

4. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opener rollers (123) are configured, for circumferentially closed arrangement around the prolate object (102), to slide the cut printed tube along the longitudinal direction (210) over the prolate object (102).

5. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a print signal interface (104; 158) which is configured to acquire a control signal for outputting the printed tube (214); and / or at least one sensor (106) which is configured to acquire a control signal for providing the label (101).

6. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a roller drive which is configured to rotate the opener rollers (123) synchronously about the respective axis of rotation, wherein the opener rollers (123) bearing against mutually opposite sides on the cut printed tube in the transverse direction (121) rotate in opposite directions.

7. Device (100) according to claims 5 and 6, wherein the roller drive is configured, depending on the control signal for outputting the printed tube (214) and / or the control signal for providing the label (101), to arrange the label (101) circumferentially closed on the object (102) or to provide it for circumferentially closed arrangement.

8. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising two slides (124) longitudinally movable in the transverse direction (121), on each of which at least one of the at least two opener rollers (123) is rotatably mounted about the respective axis of rotation (123A), and wherein a spacing of the two opener rollers of the respective roller pair and / or a contact force of the opener rollers on the cut printed tube (214) depends on an acquired or measured width of the tube (214).

9. Device (100) according to claim 8, further comprising a width sensor arranged between the flat holding unit (160) and the opening unit (122) or between roller pairs (123) of the opening unit (122), which is configured to measure the width of the tube (214) before opening and / or during opening.

10. Device (100) according to claim 10, wherein the flat holding unit (160) and the cutting unit (120) are driven by a common drive (608).

11. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the device (100) comprises an additional unit between the flat holding unit (160) and the opening unit (122), wherein the opening unit (122) comprises two heating elements (162) or the additional unit comprises two heating elements (162) which press on the tube (214) and / or conduct heat on mutually opposite sides of the tube (214) in the transverse direction (121).

12. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising: a vacuum opener unit (170) which comprises at least one suction cup, preferably at least two suction cups, which can each be brought into contact on the upper tube half and / or the lower tube half of the tube (214) and by means of a vacuum in the respective suction cup is capable of at least partially separating the upper tube half and the lower tube half from one another for opening the tube.

13. System (100, 200) for providing a tube which is arranged or arrangeable circumferentially closed around a prolate object (102), preferably around a conductor, as a label (101) of the object (102), comprising: a printer (200), preferably a thermal transfer printer, which is configured to output a printed tube as a printed product (214); and a device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the material interface (156) is arranged relative to the printer (200) to receive the printed tube output by the printer (200) as a printed product (214).

14. Method for providing a tube which is arranged or arrangeable circumferentially closed around a prolate object (102), preferably around a conductor, as a label (101) of the object (102), comprising: printing a tube (214) in a longitudinal direction (210) or receiving a printed tube (214) output by a printer (200) in a longitudinal direction (210) at a material interface (156); cutting through the printed tube (214) at a cutting position of the tube (214) in a transverse direction (121) transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the longitudinal direction (210) of the tube (214) by means of a cutting unit (120), wherein at least at the cutting position an upper tube half and a lower tube half of the tube (214) lie against one another or are connected to one another, at an end side and / or on an inner side; and opening the upper and lower tube halves by means of an opening unit (122), wherein at least two opener rollers (123) rotatable about a respective axis of rotation (123A) knead the tube, wherein the respective axis of rotation (123A) is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (210) and to the transverse direction (121), and wherein the at least two opener rollers (123) bear against the cut printed tube on mutually opposite sides in the transverse direction (121), wherein the opener rollers (123) are set up to press the tube (214) punctiformly from the outside; providing a flat holding unit (160) which is configured to prevent bulging of the tube (214) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (210) and / or perpendicular to the transverse direction (121); wherein the device (100) comprises a provided additional unit between the flat holding unit (160) and the opening unit (122), wherein the flat holding unit (160) comprises a provided heating element (162) or the additional unit comprises a provided heating element (162) which is configured to heat the tube (214) on one side, preferably the upper tube half or the lower tube half, for local deformation of the tube (214), preferably for local contraction of the tube (214).