Labeling device, labeling device control method and program

Abstract

To improve an effect for preventing occurrence of defective holding of a label in a labeling device which adsorbs and holds a transported label sequentially from an end of the label and bonds the label to an adherend.SOLUTION: A labeling device comprises: an adsorption part which adsorbs a transported label sequentially from an end of the label; and a control part which switches a first adsorption force, a second adsorption force weaker than the first adsorption force, and a third adsorption force stronger than the first adsorption force in this order.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a label application device, a control method for a label application device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a label application device that includes an adsorption plate having a plurality of suction holes formed therein, holds a label on the adsorption plate, and applies the label to an object.

[0003] The label peeled off from the backing paper moves from the edge of the adsorption surface toward the center of the adsorption surface while being sucked onto the adsorption surface by an adsorption force set at a low pressure, and when it reaches a predetermined position on the adsorption surface, it is held onto the adsorption surface of the adsorption plate by an adsorption force set at a high pressure.

[0004] That is, in Patent Document 1, the suction force is set to a low pressure while the label is moving on the suction surface, and is set to a high pressure when the label reaches the holding position.

[0005] This prevents problems with label retention, such as wrinkles in the label or poor label retention in the suction section, caused by excessive suction force acting on the label as it moves across the suction surface, preventing the label from moving before it reaches the holding position. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-278732 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, even the label application device described in Patent Document 1 still has room for further improvement.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to improve the effect of preventing poor label holding in a label application device that sequentially adsorbs and holds conveyed labels from the edge of the label and affixes the label to an object. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a label application device comprising an suction unit that sequentially suctions labels being transported from the edge of the label, and a control unit that switches in the suction unit between a first suction force, a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force that is stronger than the first suction force, in that order. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, in a label application device that sequentially adsorbs and holds conveyed labels from the edge of the labels and applies them to an object, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing poor label holding. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a label application device and a label printing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating a suction unit and a main body unit of the label attachment device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the periphery of a suction unit of the label application device and a turning plate of the label printing device, as viewed from the adherend side. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the suction process in the control section of the label application device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which a label is being conveyed while being attracted to an attraction plate. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the continuous label web ML has been transported to a position where all the openings of the suction plate except for the last row of labels are blocked. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the label is attracted and held by the attraction plate. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the behavior of the pressure detected in the suction unit of the label sticking device and the control signal of the negative pressure control unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the negative pressure setting mode executed in the label application device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating the operation check mode executed in the label application device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The embodiments described below are not limited to the drawings which are illustrated by the brief description of the drawings.

[0013] A first aspect of the present invention is a label application device comprising an suction unit that sequentially suctions labels being transported, starting from the edge of the label, and a control unit that switches the suction unit between a first suction force, a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force that is stronger than the first suction force, in that order.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the label is conveyed while being attracted to the suction portion by a first suction force, then conveyed while being attracted to the suction portion by a second suction force weaker than the first suction force, and further conveyed while being attracted to and held by the suction portion by a third suction force.

[0015] As a result, the suction force is weakened to a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, so that the label does not stick to the suction portion while being moved while being attracted to the suction portion, and the label can continue moving until it is attracted to the suction portion and held thereon by a third suction force.

[0016] Therefore, according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0017] A second aspect of the present invention is the label application device according to the first aspect, wherein the suction section has a plurality of openings arranged along the label transport direction, and the suction force is generated by the negative pressure generated in the negative pressure generating section acting on the plurality of openings.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the label moves so as to successively cover the multiple openings where the suction force is generated, whereby the suction force acting on the label is strengthened as the label is successively attracted to the suction portion from the edge.

[0019] Therefore, in the initial stage of being transported while being sucked to the suction section, the label can continue to move through the suction section without becoming stuck to the suction section midway and becoming stuck there.

[0020] Therefore, according to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0021] A third aspect of the present invention is a label application device according to the second aspect, comprising a first control valve and a second control valve, and generating the first suction force and the second suction force based on negative pressure generated by the first control valve and the negative pressure generating unit, and generating the third suction force based on negative pressure generated by the second control valve and the negative pressure generating unit.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the present invention, switching from the first adsorption force to the second adsorption force is performed by a first control valve, and switching from the second adsorption force to the third adsorption force is performed by switching from the first control valve to the second control valve.

[0023] This makes it possible to prevent the label from becoming stuck midway through the suction portion due to a change in suction force.

[0024] Therefore, according to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0025] A fourth aspect of the present invention is the label application device described in the third aspect, wherein the control unit switches from the first suction force to the second suction force when all of the multiple openings in the suction section except for one or more openings in the last row in the transport direction are blocked by the label.

[0026] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the suction force is switched to the second suction force, which is weaker than the first suction force, before the opening or openings in the last row are blocked by the label, so that the change in the suction force acting on the label can be made gradual, thereby preventing the label from being stuck in the middle of the suction part due to the change in suction force.

[0027] Therefore, according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0028] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a label application device according to the fourth aspect, wherein the control unit switches from the second suction force to the third suction force when one or more openings in the last row of the suction section are blocked by the label.

[0029] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, when one or more openings in the last row are blocked by a label, the adhesive force acting on the label can be increased by switching from the second adhesive force to the third adhesive force, thereby holding the label in the adhesive portion.

[0030] Therefore, according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the effect of preventing poor label retention can be improved, and the label can be securely retained in the suction portion by the third suction force.

[0031] A sixth aspect of the present invention is the label application device of the fifth aspect, wherein the control unit turns on the second control valve that controls the positive pressure for generating the third suction force before turning off the first control valve that controls the positive pressure for generating the second suction force.

[0032] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the second suction force and the third suction force are simultaneously applied to the suction part, so that it is possible to prevent the label from falling off from the suction part.

[0033] Therefore, according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0034] A seventh aspect of the present invention is the label application device according to the sixth aspect, wherein the control unit turns off the first control valve after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the completion of print transport.

[0035] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the suction force by the first control valve continues for a predetermined period after printing and conveying of the label is completed, so that the label can be prevented from falling off the suction portion.

[0036] Therefore, according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0037] An eighth aspect of the present invention is the label sticking device according to the second aspect, further comprising a display section for displaying the negative pressure generated in the suction section over time.

[0038] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the negative pressure generated in the suction portion is displayed over time on the display portion, so that the user can visually check the negative pressure generated in the suction portion.

[0039] Therefore, according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it becomes easy for the user to adjust the negative pressure.

[0040] In a ninth aspect of the present invention, the first control valve is a proportional control valve.

[0041] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, since the suction force is changed stepwise from the first suction force to the second suction force, it is possible to prevent the suction force acting on the label from increasing suddenly due to the openings being completely blocked, and therefore it is possible to prevent the label from being stuck midway through the suction portion due to the change in suction force.

[0042] Therefore, according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0043] A tenth aspect of the present invention is a method for controlling a label application device that has an suction section that sequentially adsorbs labels conveyed from an edge of the label and affixes the labels adsorbed to the suction section to an object, wherein the suction section switches between a first suction force, a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force that is stronger than the first suction force, in that order.

[0044] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the label is attracted to the suction portion by a first suction force, and then attracted to the suction portion by a second suction force weaker than the first suction force and conveyed. The label is then held by the suction portion by switching to a third suction force.

[0045] As a result, according to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in a label application device which sequentially adsorbs and holds the labels being transported from the edge of the label and affixes them to the substrate, it is possible to prevent the labels from becoming stuck and remaining in the middle of the adsorption section.

[0046] Therefore, according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0047] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is a program executable by a computer of a label application device having an suction section that sequentially suctions labels conveyed from the edge of the label and affixes the labels adsorbed to the suction section to an object, the program causing the computer to execute a procedure for switching, in the suction section, between a first suction force, a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force that is stronger than the first suction force, in that order.

[0048] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in a label application device, a label is adsorbed to an adsorption section with a first adsorption force, and then the label is adsorbed and transported to the adsorption section with a second adsorption force that is weaker than the first adsorption force, and then the adsorption force is switched to a third adsorption force, thereby holding the label in the adsorption section.

[0049] As a result, according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in a label application device which sequentially adsorbs and holds the labels being transported from the edge of the label and affixes them to the substrate, it is possible to prevent the labels from becoming stuck and remaining in the middle of the adsorption section.

[0050] Therefore, according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor label retention.

[0051] [Explanation of label application device and label printing device] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a label application device 1 and a label printing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] The label application device 1 according to this embodiment is a device that holds a conveyed label L by suction and applies it to an adherend. The label application device 1 is provided alongside a label printing device 100. After a label is printed by the label printing device 100, the label application device 1 holds the label L conveyed from the label printing device 100 and applies it to an adherend A.

[0053] In this embodiment, a continuous label web ML having a plurality of labels L on a long backing sheet S is used. In this embodiment, the label L affixed to the adherend A by the label application apparatus 1 is the label L printed by the label printing apparatus 100.

[0054] In this embodiment, the label L is thermal paper having a thermal coloring layer formed on its surface, which changes color when heated, and can be printed on by a so-called direct thermal printer.

[0055] In this embodiment, the label printing device 100 is provided next to the label sticking device 1 and configured to cooperate with the label sticking device 1. In addition, the label sticking device 1 and the label printing device 100 are provided next to a conveying device 200 that conveys the adherend A.

[0056] The label sticking device 1 in this embodiment may have a function as a label printing device that prints on a label. A label sticking device having a function of printing on a label is also included in the label sticking device. In another aspect, the label printing device may have a function of sticking a label. Such a printing device is also included in the label sticking device.

[0057] <Label printer> First, a description will be given of the label printing device 100. The label printing device 100 is an example of a direct thermal printer.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 1, the label printing device 100 includes a printing unit 110 that prints on labels L arranged on a continuous label web ML, a supply unit 120 that supplies the continuous label web ML to the printing unit 110, a peeling mechanism 130 that peels the labels L from the continuous label web ML, and a backing paper winding unit 140 that winds up unnecessary backing paper S.

[0059] The printing unit 110 includes a thermal head 111 that prints on the continuous label web ML, and a platen roller 112 that holds and transports the continuous label web ML between the thermal head 111 and the platen roller 112.

[0060] The platen roller 112 holds the continuous label web ML between itself and the thermal head 111, and conveys the continuous label web ML in a conveying direction F by being driven to rotate.

[0061] A continuous label web ML is set in the supply unit 120. Fig. 1 shows a state in which the continuous label web ML is wound so that the labels L are arranged on the inside, that is, a so-called "inner-wound roll" is applied. The continuous label web ML unwound from the supply unit 120 is transported to the printing unit 110.

[0062] Furthermore, the label printer 100 includes a guide roll 113 and a damper unit 114 between the supply unit 120 and the printing unit 110 .

[0063] The guide roll 113 guides the continuous label web ML to the printing unit 110 while applying a predetermined tension to the continuous label web ML.

[0064] The damper unit 114 has a plate-like member with a curved surface on which the continuous label web ML can slide. The damper unit 114 can convey the continuous label web ML while applying a predetermined tension. When an inwardly wound roll is used, the damper unit 114 is disposed so as to abut and slide against the back side of the backing sheet S (the side on which the labels L are not temporarily attached).

[0065] The peeling mechanism 130 includes a turning plate 131 for peeling the liner S from the label web ML, and a support member 132 for supporting the liner S that has been peeled off.

[0066] The turning plate 131 turns only the backing sheet S in the direction opposite to the conveying direction F of the label L.

[0067] As the liner S is wound up by the liner winding section 140 , it is turned by the turning plate 131 to a direction B opposite to the conveying direction F of the label L, peeled off from the label L, and wound up by the liner winding section 140 .

[0068] The label printer 100 also includes a control unit 150. The control unit 150 is configured with a microcomputer including a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an input / output interface (I / O interface), and the like.

[0069] The control unit 150 performs various processes such as printing on the labels L and transporting the continuous label strip ML associated with printing by having the CPU read and execute programs stored in the ROM. The control unit 150 can also be composed of multiple microcomputers.

[0070] The control unit 150 is connected to an external device via wire or wirelessly so as to be able to communicate with the external device. In this embodiment, the external device is the label application device 1 and the conveying device 200. The label printing device 100 can transmit control signals related to printing and conveying the label L to the label application device 1 and the conveying device 200.

[0071] The label printer 100 also has a display unit 160. In this embodiment, the display unit 160 is a display with a touch panel that is capable of inputting operations to the label printer 100 and displaying information related to the label printing operation. In this embodiment, the display unit 160 can also display, over time, the negative pressure generated in the suction unit 10 in the label application device 1, which will be described later.

[0072] According to the label printer 100 having the above-mentioned configuration, the continuous label web ML is transferred to the peeling mechanism 130 after printing is performed at a predetermined position on the label L of the continuous label web ML supplied from the supply unit 120.

[0073] In the peeling mechanism 130, the backing sheet S is redirected by a redirecting plate 131 and is wound up while being pulled by a backing sheet winding section 140.

[0074] On the other hand, due to the difference in rigidity between the label L and the backing paper S and the strength of the adhesive force of the adhesive layer of the label L, the label L is peeled off from the backing paper S from the downstream end Ld of the label L to the upstream end Lu of the label L without being folded in the opposite direction of the conveying direction F together with the backing paper S.

[0075] The upstream end Lu of the label L is still attached to the liner S. Therefore, the downstream end Ld of the label L that has already been peeled off is sent out in the conveying direction F at the conveying speed of the liner S (winding speed).

[0076] The label L peeled off from the backing sheet S is delivered to the suction unit 10 of the label application device 1 at the same speed as the backing sheet S is transported.

[0077] After printing on the labels L is completed, the label printer 100 conveys the continuous label web ML a predetermined distance to a position where the transfer of the labels L to the suction unit 10 of the label application device 1 is completed.

[0078] In this embodiment, this specified distance is the transport distance of the label web ML from the position where printing on the printing area of ​​the label L is completed to a position where the upstream end Lu of the label L is attached to the backing sheet S and the label L can completely block the last row of the openings 13 of the suction section 10 (see Figure 6).

[0079] The label printing device 100 transmits to the label application device 1 a signal indicating that the continuous label strip ML has been conveyed up to this predetermined distance.

[0080] In addition, the label printing device 100 transmits a signal to the label application device 1 indicating that the label strip ML has been transported a distance shorter than the above-mentioned completion distance, i.e., a distance up to the position where all of the openings 13 (see Figure 6) except for the last row of openings 13 are blocked.

[0081] In this embodiment, a distance shorter than the predetermined distance is referred to as a first distance, and the predetermined distance is referred to as a second distance.

[0082] In this embodiment, the first distance and the second distance can be set according to the dimension of the label L in the longitudinal direction and the print range that can be set on the label L.

[0083] In addition, when the suction unit 10 is in a position to wait for the label L from the label printer 100, the distance G (see FIG. 3) between the suction unit 10 and the turning plate 131 can be adjusted according to the longitudinal dimension of the label L. In addition, the dimension of the suction unit 10 can be changed according to the dimension of the label L, or can be appropriately replaced with one that matches the dimension of the label L.

[0084] <Label attachment device> Next, the label application device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0085] In this embodiment, the label application device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is provided next to a label printing device 100, and is a device that adsorbs the label L that is printed by the label printing device 100 and then transported thereto, moves the label L toward the substrate A, and applies the label to the substrate A.

[0086] The label application device 1 includes a suction unit 10 that suctions the labels L being conveyed, and a main body unit 20 that performs the suction operation of the labels L in the suction unit 10 and the operation of applying the labels L to the adherends A.

[0087] 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating the suction section 10 and the main body section 20 of the label application device 1. The main body section 20 includes a suction unit 21 and a drive unit 22.

[0088] (Suction unit) The suction unit 21 generates a negative pressure in the suction part 10 so that the label L is suctioned to the suction part 10. In addition, the drive unit 22 drives the suction part 10 so that the label L suctioned to the suction part 10 is affixed to the adherend A.

[0089] The adsorption unit 21 includes a compressor 211 , a pressure control unit 212 , a first control valve 213 , a second control valve 214 , a negative pressure generating unit 215 , a pressure detecting unit 216 , and a control unit 217 .

[0090] The compressor 211 is connected to the pressure control unit 212 by a hose 231. The compressor 211 generates compressed air and supplies it to the pressure control unit 212. The compressor 211 may be provided outside the label application apparatus 1.

[0091] The pressure control unit 212 is connected to the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214 by a hose 232. The pressure control unit 212 can adjust the pressure of the compressed air sent from the compressor 211 in accordance with a voltage set in the pressure control unit 212, for example.

[0092] The pressure control unit 212 sends the regulated compressed air to the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214. The regulation of the compressed air in the pressure control unit 212 can be performed, for example, by changing the voltage.

[0093] Furthermore, the pressure control unit 212 is directly connected to the adsorption unit 10 by a hose 233, and can directly send compressed air (positive pressure) adjusted from the compressed air sent from the compressor 211 to the adsorption unit 10.

[0094] The first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214 are connected to a negative pressure generating unit 215 by a hose 234 .

[0095] The first control valve 213 is a control valve for controlling the adjustment of the positive pressure generated in the pressure control unit 212. The first control valve 213 is configured so that the degree of opening and closing of the valve can be adjusted in accordance with a voltage set in the first control valve 213 by the control unit 217.

[0096] In this embodiment, the first control valve 213 is a proportional control valve. The first control valve 213 can continuously change the negative pressure generated in the hose 234 in a range from zero (completely blocked) to the original pressure (fully open) by changing the voltage based on a control signal from the control unit 217.

[0097] This allows the first control valve 213 to adjust the positive pressure air generated in the pressure control section 212 in a stepwise manner.

[0098] The second control valve 214 is a control valve for controlling the adjustment of the positive pressure generated in the pressure control unit 212. The second control valve 214 is configured to be capable of opening and closing (on and off) the valve in accordance with a voltage set in the second control valve 214. This makes it possible to switch between allowing the positive pressure air generated in the pressure control unit 212 to flow to the hose 234 or blocking it.

[0099] In this embodiment, by providing the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214, when the second control valve 214 is completely closed, the positive pressure can be adjusted by the first control valve 213, and when the first control valve 213 is completely closed, the positive pressure can be adjusted by the second control valve 214.

[0100] The adjustment of the positive pressure in the first control valve 213 , the adjustment of the positive pressure in the second control valve 214 , and the switching between the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214 are performed by a control unit 217 .

[0101] The negative pressure generating unit 215 is connected to a hose 234 whose opening and closing is controlled by a first control valve 213 and a second control valve 214. The negative pressure generating unit 215 is also connected to the adsorption unit 10 by a hose 235.

[0102] The negative pressure generating unit 215 discharges the air inside the hose 235 and the suction unit 10 by discharging the positive pressure air adjusted by the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214, thereby generating a predetermined negative pressure inside the hose 235 and the suction unit 10.

[0103] The negative pressure generating unit 215 can adjust the negative pressure generated in accordance with the voltage set in the negative pressure generating unit 215 .

[0104] The first suction force generated based on the positive pressure from the first control valve 213 is an suction force that is capable of attracting the downstream end Ld of the label L sent out by the label printing device 100 to a part of an opening 13 of the suction section 10, and that enables the label L to move in the suction section 10 without falling from the suction section 10.

[0105] The second suction force generated based on the positive pressure from the first control valve 213 is a suction force weaker than the first suction force and is a suction force that allows the label L to move in the suction section 10.

[0106] Moreover, the negative pressure generating unit 215 generates a third suction force capable of holding the label L on the suction unit 10 based on the positive pressure generated in the second control valve 214 .

[0107] The third suction force generated based on the positive pressure from the second control valve 214 is stronger than the first suction force and is an suction force capable of suctioning and holding the label L on the suction portion 10.

[0108] As described above, the first and second attractive forces can be generated by the first control valve 213 and the negative pressure generating unit 215. Moreover, the second control valve 214 and the negative pressure generating unit 215 can generate a third attractive force.

[0109] The pressure detection unit 216 is a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure generated in the hose 235 .

[0110] In the label attachment device 1 according to this embodiment, as an example of the pressure detection section 216, a pressure sensor that can output the amount of change in pressure generated in the hose 235 as an analog signal of a voltage value or a current value can be used.

[0111] The pressure detection unit 216 successively sends to the control unit 217 a detection value (an analog signal of a voltage value or a current value) based on a change in the negative pressure in the adsorption unit 10 (adsorption unit main body 11, see FIG. 3).

[0112] The control unit 217 generates signals for controlling each of the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214. In addition, a detection signal from the pressure detection unit 216 is input to the control unit 217.

[0113] For example, when the suction part 10 has a label L, the detected voltage value increases as the suction force generated by the suction part 10 increases. On the other hand, when the suction part 10 has no label L, the detected voltage value decreases as the suction force generated by the suction part 10 decreases.

[0114] The control unit 217 converts the analog signal from the pressure detection unit 216 into a digital signal in an A / D converter (not shown).

[0115] In the label application device 1 according to this embodiment, the presence or absence of the label L in the suction part 10 can be detected based on the detection value in the pressure detection part 216.

[0116] As described above, the control unit 217 can control the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214 to switch the adhesive force generated in the adhesive unit 10 between a first adhesive force, a second adhesive force weaker than the first adhesive force, and a third adhesive force stronger than the first adhesive force, in this order.

[0117] The control unit 217 receives a signal indicating that the label printer 100 has conveyed the label web ML a first distance. Upon receiving this signal, the control unit 217 controls the first control valve 213 to switch from the first suction force to the second suction force.

[0118] The control unit 217 also receives various signals from the label printer 100. As an example, the control unit 217 receives a signal indicating that the label printer 100 starts printing on the label L. After the label printer 100 finishes printing on the label L, the control unit 217 receives a signal indicating that the label web ML has been transported to a first distance or a second distance.

[0119] The control unit 217 receives a signal from the label printing device 100 that the label L has been conveyed to a second distance where it covers the opening 13 in the last row in the suction unit 10, and switches from the second suction force to the third suction force.

[0120] (Drive unit) The drive unit 22 has an arm portion 221 that supports the suction portion 10 and a drive portion 222 for driving the arm portion 221 .

[0121] The arm portion 221 is configured to be extendable and retractable relative to the adherend A transported by the transport device 200.

[0122] The drive unit 22 extends the arm portion 221 toward the adherend A in response to a control signal from the control unit 217. As an example, the drive unit 22 is configured to extend the arm portion 221 toward the affixed surface of the adherend A to which the label L is to be attached, after receiving a signal from the control unit 217 indicating that the adsorptive force has been switched from the second adsorptive force to the third adsorptive force.

[0123] (Configuration of the suction part) Next, the suction unit 10 applied to the label application device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0124] Fig. 3 is a plan view of the suction unit 10 of the label sticking device 1 and the periphery of the turning plate 131 of the label printing device 100, as viewed from the adherend A side. In Fig. 3, the turning plate 131 is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 3, the suction part 10 has an suction part main body 11, an suction surface 12 for suctioning the label L, and a plurality of openings 13 formed in the suction surface 12.

[0126] The adsorption body 11 is in the shape of a hollow box. Hoses 233 and 235 extending from the adsorption unit 21 are connected to the adsorption body 11, and a negative pressure is generated inside the adsorption body 11 by a first control valve 213, a second control valve 214, and a negative pressure generating unit 215 (FIG. 2).

[0127] The suction unit main body 11 is attached to the tip of the arm unit 221. The arm unit 221 is configured to extend to the vicinity of the surface of the adherend A conveyed by the conveying device 200, to which the label L is to be attached.

[0128] The adsorption surface 12 has a rectangular shape with a planar size at least larger than the size of the label L, and is disposed so as to face the surface of the adherend A to which the label L is attached.

[0129] 3, four rows of three openings 13 are formed at equal intervals along the longitudinal direction of the suction surface 12. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the suction surface 12 coincides with the transport direction F of the label L discharged from the label printer 100.

[0130] The label sticking device 1 can generate a first suction force, a second suction force, and a third suction force by causing a negative pressure generated in the suction portion main body 11 to act on the multiple openings 13.

[0131] <Transportation equipment> 1, the transport device 200 includes a conveyor 201 that transports an adherend A to which a label L is to be affixed. In addition, although not shown in FIG 1, the transport device 200 includes a control unit that controls the transport of the adherend A, an operation input unit, a display unit, and the like.

[0132] The conveying device 200 is communicably connected to the label sticking device 1 and the label printing device 100 via an interface (not shown).

[0133] [Adsorption process in label attachment equipment] Fig. 4 is a flow chart for explaining the adsorption process in the control section 217 of the label application device 1. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining a state in which the label L is being conveyed while being adsorbed by the adsorption section 10.

[0134] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the label web ML has been transported to a position in which the labels L close the openings 13 of the suction unit 10 except for the last row. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the labels L are suctioned and held by the suction unit 10.

[0135] 5, 6 and 7, the turning plate 131 is omitted, and instead, a part of the label L is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

[0136] 8 is a diagram illustrating the behavior of the pressure detected in the suction unit of the label sticking device and the control signal in the negative pressure generating unit 215. In FIG. 8, the horizontal axis represents time.

[0137] A solid line Y1 shown in FIG. 8 indicates a change in pressure in the adsorption portion main body 11 detected by the pressure detection portion 216 over time.

[0138] 8, a dashed line Y2 indicates the stepwise voltage control of the first control valve 213. A dashed line Y3 indicates the on / off signal of the second control valve 214.

[0139] The label printer 100 is configured to transport the continuous label web ML up to the above-mentioned first distance and second distance after printing on the label L is completed.

[0140] In step S1 shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 217 in the label application device 1 receives a signal from the label printing device 100 to start printing.

[0141] In step S2, the control unit 217 generates a first adsorptive force in the adsorptive unit 10. That is, the control unit 217 sends a control signal to the first control valve 213 so that the first adsorptive force is generated.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 5, the label L after printing is discharged from the label printing device 100 in the conveying direction F and moves while being attracted sequentially from the downstream end Ld of the label L to the opening 13 of the adsorption section 10 by the first adsorption force.

[0143] In this embodiment, the control unit 217 determines the position of the label L in the suction unit 10 based on the conveyance amount of the label L transmitted from the label printer 100.

[0144] In step S3, the control unit 217 receives a signal from the label printing apparatus 100 indicating that the label L has been conveyed to a first distance.

[0145] In step S4, the control unit 217 switches the suction force generated by the suction unit 10 from the first suction force to the second suction force (S4 in FIG. 8).

[0146] That is, the control unit 217 transmits a control signal to the first control valve 213 so as to switch the suction force generated by the suction unit 10 from the first suction force to the second suction force.

[0147] At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, the label L is in a state where the continuous label strip ML has been transported to a position where the openings 13 of the suction portions 10, except for the last row, are closed.

[0148] Next, in step S5, the control unit 217 receives a signal from the label printing apparatus 100 indicating that the label L has been conveyed to a second distance.

[0149] In step S6, the control unit 217 transmits control signals to the first control valve 213 and the second control valve 214 so that the third adsorptive force is generated in the adsorptive unit 10 (S6 in FIG. 8).

[0150] As a result, the label L is conveyed to a position where all of the openings 13 in the last row of the suction portions 10 are closed, as shown in FIG.

[0151] In this embodiment, in step S7, the control unit 217 turns off the first control valve 213 after a predetermined period of time Δt has elapsed since receiving a signal indicating that the label L has been transported to the second distance (Δt in FIG. 8).

[0152] Furthermore, the control unit 217 turns on the second control valve 214 which generates the third attractive force before turning off the first control valve 213 which generates the second attractive force.

[0153] That is, when the control unit 217 receives a signal indicating that the label L has been transported to the second distance, it turns on the second control valve 214, and then, after a predetermined period Δt has elapsed since receiving the signal, it controls the first control valve 213 to be turned off.

[0154] By generating the third adsorptive force in the adsorption portion 10, the label L is adsorbed and held on the adsorption surface 12 so as not to fall off.

[0155] Furthermore, in step S8, the control unit 217 starts the operation of extending the arm unit 221 toward the adherend A, upon receiving a signal from the label printing device 100 indicating that the label L has been transported the second distance. Note that the operation of extending the arm unit 221 toward the adherend A may start after a predetermined period of time Δt has elapsed since receiving the signal from the label printing device 100 indicating that the label L has been transported the second distance.

[0156] When the arm portion 221 has extended to a predetermined distance from the attachment surface of the adherend A, the control portion 217 switches the pressure control portion 212 so that the compressed air is output to the suction portion 10 in step S9.

[0157] As a result, the inside of the suction part 10 becomes positive pressure, and the label L is blown towards the attachment surface of the adherend A and attached to the attachment surface of the adherend A.

[0158] [Effects] The label application device 1 of this embodiment is an application device equipped with an suction unit 10 that sequentially adsorbs the label L from the downstream end Ld, and is equipped with a control unit 217 that switches the suction force in the suction unit 10 between a first suction force, a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force that is stronger than the first suction force, in that order.

[0159] According to the label application device 1, the label L is conveyed while being attracted to the suction unit 10 by a first suction force, and then conveyed while being attracted to the suction unit 10 by a second suction force weaker than the first suction force. Also, the label L is attracted to and held by the suction unit 10 by a third suction force.

[0160] The label L is held by suction so as not to fall off the suction portion 10, and moves on the suction surface 12 while gradually closing the opening 13. At this time, as the label L closes the opening 13, the suction force is increased, and therefore the force with which the label L is attracted to the suction surface 12 also increases.

[0161] In conventional label application devices, even if the suction force was set constant, the suction force would increase as the label blocked the opening, preventing the downstream end of the label from moving on the suction surface, while the upstream side of the label would be pushed out by the turning plate, causing the label to become wrinkled.

[0162] In contrast, according to the label application device 1 of the present embodiment, the suction force is changed from the first suction force to the second suction force before the last row of the openings 13 of the suction part 10 is blocked by the label L. In other words, the suction force is weakened before the last row of the openings 13 of the suction part 10 is blocked by the label L.

[0163] This makes it possible to prevent a problem in which an excessive suction force acts on the downstream end Ld of the label L, causing the label L to be unable to move on the suction surface 12.

[0164] In the label sticking device 1, the suction force is weakened to a second suction force weaker than the first suction force during the transport of the label L, so that the label L does not stick to and remain on the suction part 10 while moving while being adsorbed to the suction part 10.

[0165] Furthermore, the label L can continue to move until it is attracted to and held by the attraction portion 10 by the third attraction force.

[0166] Therefore, according to the label application device 1, it is possible to improve the effect of preventing the occurrence of poor holding of the label L.

[0167] In the label application device 1, the suction section 10 has a plurality of openings 13 arranged along a conveying direction F of the label L, and the label L is conveyed so as to successively cover the plurality of openings 13 where suction force is generated.

[0168] As a result, as the label L is successively attracted to the attracting portion 10 from the downstream end Ld, the attracting force acting on the label L is strengthened.

[0169] Therefore, the label L is not subjected to an excessive suction force in the initial stage when suction to the suction section 10 starts, and suction conveyance can be started in the suction section 10. Also, it is possible to prevent the label L from sticking and getting stuck in the middle of the suction section 10.

[0170] The label application device 1 is equipped with a first control valve 213 and a second control valve 214, and switching from the first suction force to the second suction force is performed by the first control valve 213, and switching from the second suction force to the third suction force is performed by switching from the first control valve 213 to the second control valve 214.

[0171] Therefore, the label application device 1 can make the change in the suction force acting on the label L slow, and therefore can prevent the label L from sticking to the suction portion 10 and becoming stuck there halfway.

[0172] The control unit 217 of the label application device 1 receives a signal from the label printing device 100 indicating that the label L has been transported to a first distance that blocks all of the multiple openings 13 in the suction section 10 except for the multiple openings 13 in the last row in the transport direction F, and switches from the first suction force to the second suction force.

[0173] Since the pressure of the suction portion 10 is switched to the second suction force, the pressure of the suction portion main body 11 can be reduced at once, thereby preventing the suction force acting on the label L from suddenly increasing due to the label L blocking the opening 13.

[0174] This makes it possible to prevent the label L from being stuck midway along the suction portion 10 due to a change in the suction force.

[0175] In addition, the control unit 217 of the label application device 1 receives a signal from the label printing device 100 indicating that the label L has been transported to a second distance where it blocks the opening 13 in the last row in the suction section 10, and switches from the second suction force to the third suction force.

[0176] Therefore, according to the label application device 1, the label L moves smoothly up to the second distance where the opening 13 in the last row is completely blocked by the label L, and when the second distance is reached, the suction force acting on the label L is increased so that the label L can be held in the suction portion 10.

[0177] 8, the control unit 217 of the labeling device 1 turns on the second control valve 214 that generates the third suction force before turning off the first control valve 213 that generates the second suction force, thereby preventing the label L from falling off.

[0178] [Negative pressure setting mode] Next, a negative pressure setting mode provided in the label sticking device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0179] In the labeling device 1, the value of the negative pressure (herein referred to as the vacuum pressure value) generated in the suction unit 10 is likely to vary depending on the material of the label L used, the usage environment (temperature, humidity, air pressure), etc. Therefore, the labeling device 1 is provided with a negative pressure setting mode for optimizing the first suction force.

[0180] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the negative pressure setting mode executed in the label application apparatus 1. As shown in FIG.

[0181] In step S11, the negative pressure setting mode is selected in the label application apparatus 1 by an operational input from the user.

[0182] In step S12, the control unit 217 transmits a signal to the label printer 100 to display a message prompting the user to input a vacuum pressure value. Upon receiving the signal, the label printer 100 displays a message on the display unit 160 to prompt the user to input a vacuum pressure value. The vacuum pressure value is, for example, a vacuum pressure value for generating a first suction force.

[0183] The vacuum pressure value set in this embodiment is predetermined in accordance with, for example, the material of the label L to be used, the usage environment (temperature, humidity, air pressure), etc. The vacuum pressure value is a value selected and input by the user.

[0184] In step S13, the control unit 217 stores the vacuum pressure value input by the user in a temporary storage location such as a RAM.

[0185] In step S14, the control unit 17 transmits a signal to the label printing device 100 to display guidance information for setting a negative pressure. The label printing device 100 displays the guidance information for setting a negative pressure on the display unit 160. As an example of the guidance information, a display is made on the display unit 160 to urge the user to press the label L against the adsorption surface 12 of the adsorption unit 10 so as to cover the entire surface of the adsorption surface 12.

[0186] In step S15, the control unit 217 sweeps the voltage of the first control valve 213 from a voltage value for generating a lower limit value of the adhesive force that can be set in the first control valve 213 to a voltage value for generating an upper limit value of the adhesive force that can be set in the first control valve 213.

[0187] At this time, the control unit 217 displays the voltage value set in the first control valve 213 on the display unit 160 .

[0188] In step S16, the control unit 217 determines whether or not the vacuum pressure value detected by the pressure detection unit 216 matches the vacuum pressure value (input value) stored in step S13.

[0189] If it does not match the input value, in step S17, it is determined whether or not the voltage value of the first control valve 213 is a voltage value for generating the upper limit of the adsorptive force that can be set in the first control valve 213.

[0190] In step S17, if the voltage value for generating the upper limit of the adsorptive force that can be set in the first control valve 213 has not been reached (step S17: No), the process from step S15 onwards is repeated.

[0191] If the voltage value for generating the upper limit of the adhesive force that can be set in the first control valve 213 has been reached (step S17: Yes), even if the upper limit voltage value is input, the vacuum pressure value that can be generated by the first control valve 213 will not reach the input value.

[0192] In this case, in step S18, the control unit 217 transmits a signal to display a message notifying the error to the label printing device 100. The label printing device 100 displays a message on the display unit 160 notifying the error of the first control valve 213, and ends the process.

[0193] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S16 after the processes from step S15 to step S17 are repeated that the input value matches the detected value, the process proceeds to step S19.

[0194] In step S19, the control unit 217 sets the vacuum pressure value input by the user as the first suction force in the first control valve 213, stores it, and displays on the display unit 160 that the optimization process of the vacuum pressure value has been completed.

[0195] If it is determined in step S16 that the input value matches the voltage value set in first control valve 213 and the voltage value is close to the upper limit value, control unit 217 may be configured to send a signal to display unit 160 of label printing device 100 to display a message indicating deterioration of first control valve 213.

[0196] [Operation check mode] Next, an operation check mode provided in the label attachment device 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0197] The label application apparatus 1 has an operation check mode for checking the first suction force optimized in the negative pressure setting mode described above.

[0198] The operation check mode is a mode in which the label L discharged from the label printing device 100 is attracted to the attracting section 10 and then conveyed, without performing the operation of attaching the label L to the adherend A.

[0199] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating the operation check mode executed in the label application apparatus 1. As shown in FIG.

[0200] In step S21, the operation check mode is selected by an operation input from the user in the label application device 1. Note that the label application device 1 may transition to the operation check mode following the negative pressure setting mode.

[0201] In step S22, the control unit 217 transmits a signal to the label printing device 100 to display the currently set vacuum pressure value and the value detected by the pressure detection unit 216. The label printing device 100 displays the currently set vacuum pressure value and the value detected by the pressure detection unit 216 on the display unit 160.

[0202] In step S23, the control unit 217 starts the suction and transport operation of the label L fed from the label printer 100.

[0203] In the suction conveying operation, when the label L has been conveyed to the first distance, the control unit 217 switches the voltage value for generating a first suction force in the first control valve 213, i.e., from the voltage value for generating the currently set vacuum pressure value, to a voltage value for generating a second suction force. After that, when the label L has been conveyed to the second distance, the control unit 217 turns on the second control valve 214.

[0204] In step S24, after a predetermined time has elapsed since second control valve 214 was turned on, control unit 217 ends the operation check mode.

[0205] The label application device 1 has an operation check mode, and thus can display on the display unit 160 the vacuum pressure value set in the negative pressure setting mode and the actual measured value of the vacuum pressure during actual suction and transport.

[0206] Therefore, the user can compare the vacuum pressure value set in the negative pressure setting mode with the actually measured vacuum pressure value during actual suction and transport.

[0207] This makes it possible to set the vacuum pressure to a predetermined value depending on the material of the label L used and the operating environment (temperature, humidity, air pressure), for example, but if the actual measured value is low, the value can be reset to a higher value than specified, or conversely, if the actual measured value is high, the value can be reset to a lower value than specified.

[0208] [program] The above-mentioned suction process and attachment process in the label attachment apparatus 1 can be realized by a program executable by the control unit 217 of the label attachment apparatus 1. These programs are stored in the ROM, storage unit, etc. of the control unit 217 of the label attachment apparatus 1, and are executed by the processor.

[0209] [Other embodiments] Although the present embodiment has been described above, the above embodiment merely shows one application example of the present invention, and it is not intended that the technical scope of the present invention be limited to the specific configuration of the above embodiment.

[0210] In this embodiment, the continuous label web ML applied to the label printer 100 may be a so-called "outer wound roll" in which the labels L are wound so as to be positioned radially outward relative to the backing paper.

[0211] When an outer winding roll is used, the position of the damper section 114 may be adjusted so that a predetermined tension can be applied while supporting the surface of the continuous label web ML to which the labels L are temporarily attached.

[0212] The continuous label strip ML may be a wound roll label, or may be, for example, a so-called fanfold label in which a continuous label strip divided by perforations into labels of a specified label size is folded at the perforations.

[0213] In this embodiment, the label L may be a so-called RFID label that includes an antenna and an IC chip compatible with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology for transmitting and receiving information by non-contact communication.

[0214] In this embodiment, a plurality of openings 13 are formed in the last row on the downstream side of the conveying direction F of the plurality of openings 13 formed in the adsorption surface 12 of the adsorption unit 10. In contrast, only one opening may be formed in the last row.

[0215] Furthermore, the size, number and arrangement of the openings 13 are not limited to those in this embodiment as long as they are capable of suction-transporting and suction-holding the labels L.

[0216] The labeling device 1 may have, for example, a detection unit that detects the material of the label L to be used, the usage environment (temperature, humidity, air pressure), etc. When setting the negative pressure setting mode, the labeling device 1 may be configured to select a vacuum pressure value from a previously prepared table according to the detection result in the detection unit.

[0217] In this embodiment, the display unit 160 may be provided in the label sticking device 1. In this case, the display unit 160 can display the negative pressure generated in the suction unit 10 over time as operation input to the label sticking device 1 is performed. The display unit may be provided in each of the label sticking device 1 and the label printing device 100.

[0218] In this embodiment, in step S7, when the control unit 217 receives a signal indicating that the label L has been transported to the second distance, it turns on the second control valve 214, and then, after a predetermined period Δt has elapsed since receiving the signal, it controls the first control valve 213 to turn off.

[0219] In response to this, the control unit 217 may turn off the first control valve 213 that generates the second attractive force, and at the same time, turn on the second control valve 214 that generates the third attractive force.

[0220] In addition, in the present embodiment, it has been described that step S8 is executed following step S7, but the order of steps S8 and S7 may be reversed.

[0221] In this embodiment, the various programs of the label printer 100 may be stored in a non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM. [Explanation of symbols]

[0222] 1 Labeling device 10 Adsorption part 11 Adsorption unit body 12 Adsorption surface 13 Aperture 20 Main body 21 Suction unit 22 Drive unit 100 Label Printer 110 Printing section 111 Thermal head 112 Platen roller 113 Guide Roll 114 Damper part 120 Supply section 130 Peeling Mechanism 131 Turning Plate 131a End 132 Support member 140 Mounting paper winding section 150 Control Unit 160 Display section 200 Transport device 201 Conveyor 211 Compressor 212 Pressure control section 213 Negative pressure generating section 214 First control valve 215 Second control valve 216 Pressure detection unit 217 Control Unit 221 Arm section 222 Drive unit 231,232,233,234,235 Hose A Adherent L Label ML Label Continuum S Mount

Claims

1. a suction unit that sequentially suctions the conveyed labels from an edge of the labels; a control unit that switches, in the suction unit, a first suction force, a second suction force that is weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force that is stronger than the first suction force, in this order; Label application device.

2. 2. The label application device according to claim 1, The suction portion has a plurality of openings arranged along a conveying direction of the label, a negative pressure generated in the negative pressure generating unit acts on the plurality of openings to generate an adsorption force; Label application device.

3. 3. The label application device according to claim 2, A first control valve and a second control valve are provided. generating the first attraction force and the second attraction force based on a negative pressure generated by the first control valve and the negative pressure generating unit; generating the third adsorptive force based on the negative pressure generated by the second control valve and the negative pressure generating unit; Label application device.

4. 4. The labelling device according to claim 3, the control unit switches from the first suction force to the second suction force in a state in which all of the plurality of openings in the suction unit except for one or more openings in a last row in the transport direction are blocked by the labels. Label application device.

5. 5. The label application device according to claim 4, the control unit switches from the second suction power to the third suction power when the one or more openings in the last row of the suction unit are blocked by the label. Label application device.

6. 6. The label application device according to claim 5, the control unit turns on the second control valve that controls the positive pressure for generating the third adsorptive force before turning off the first control valve that controls the positive pressure for generating the second adsorptive force. Label application device.

7. 7. The labelling device according to claim 6, the control unit turns off the first control valve after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the completion of print transport. Label application device.

8. A method for controlling a label application device that includes a suction unit that sequentially suctions a label conveyed from an edge of the label, and affixes the label suctioned to the suction unit to an object, comprising the steps of: the suction unit switches between a first suction force, a second suction force weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force stronger than the first suction force, in this order; A method for controlling a label application device.

9. A computer-executable program for a labeling device that includes a suction unit that sequentially suctions a label conveyed from an edge of the label, and affixes the label suctioned to the suction unit to an object, the program comprising: a procedure of switching, in the suction unit, between a first suction force, a second suction force weaker than the first suction force, and a third suction force stronger than the first suction force, in this order; A program executed by the computer.

Images