Automatic label generating apparatus and method for can decoration

Abstract

The can decoration system includes a can decorator comprising at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, and a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator. The control station includes an input device, a display, a control system configured to monitor and control the operation of the can decorator, and an automatic label generator configured to receive label specifications, generate labels, determine image registration values ​​at least partially based on the label specifications and data on previously applied labels, and transmit at least the labels and values ​​to the control station. The control system adjusts the plate cylinders and inking stations based on the labels and image registration values. The plate cylinders and inking stations print labels on undecorated cans based on the labels and values.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] <Cross - reference to Related Applications> This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 237,456, filed on August 24, 2023, entitled "Automatic Label Creator And Method For Can Decorating".

[0002] The disclosed concepts generally relate to devices and methods for decorating cans using a can decorator, and more particularly, to an automatic label generation device and method for can decoration.

Background Art

[0003] High - speed continuous - operating machines for decorating cans (commonly referred to as "can decorating devices" or simply "can decorators") are generally well - known. In FIG. 1, a can decorator 10 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the can decorator 10 includes a supply conveyor 15. The supply conveyor 15 receives cans 16 from a can supply section (not shown) and guides them to arcuate cradles or pockets 17 along the periphery of spaced parallel rings fixed to a pocket wheel 12. The pocket wheel 12 is fixed to a continuously rotating mandrel carrier wheel 18, and the mandrel carrier wheel 18 is keyed to a continuously rotating horizontal drive shaft 19. Horizontal spindles or mandrels (not shown), each pivotable about its own axis, are attached adjacent to the periphery of the mandrel carrier wheel 18. Downstream of the supply conveyor 15, each spindle or mandrel is axially aligned in close proximity to an individual pocket 17, and the undecorated cans 16 are sent from the pockets 17 to the mandrels. A suction force applied through the axial passage of the mandrel draws the can 16 to its final seating position on the mandrel.

[0004] While mounted on the mandrel, each can 16 is decorated by engaging with a blanket (e.g., a replaceable adhesive rubber piece) positioned on the blanket wheel of a multicolor printing unit, collectively indicated by reference numeral 22. Then, while still mounted on the mandrel, the outside of each decorated can 16 is coated with a protective film of varnish applied by engaging with the periphery of a varnish application roll (not shown) rotating on the shaft 23 of an over-varnish unit, collectively indicated by reference numeral 24. The decorated and protectively coated cans 16 are then transferred from the mandrel to a suction cup (not shown) mounted adjacent to the periphery of a transfer wheel (not shown) rotating around the shaft 28 of a transfer unit 27. From the transfer unit 27, the cans 16 are placed on a nearly horizontal pin 29, which is carried by a chain-type discharge conveyor 30, which transports the cans 16 through a curing oven (not shown).

[0005] As the blanket wheel moves toward engagement with the undecorated can 16, it engages with multiple plate cylinders 31. Each plate cylinder is associated with an individual inking station 32 (figure 1 shows eight exemplary inking stations 32). The multiple plate cylinders 31 and inking stations 32 label the can 16 based on specifications from the vendor. Typically, each inking station 32 provides a different color of ink, and each plate cylinder 31 applies a different ink image segment to the blanket. All of the “ink image” segments combine to produce a “main image” (i.e., label) configured to be applied to the can body. The “main image” is then transferred to the undecorated can 16 to become the “can body applied image” as used herein.

[0006] Each inking station 32 includes multiple rollers, or "rolls" as defined herein, which are configured to transfer a certain amount of ink from a reservoir, or "ink fountain" as defined herein, to a blanket. The path through which the ink moves is identified as an "ink train" as defined herein. That is, the rolls through which the ink moves define the "ink train". Furthermore, as defined herein, the "ink train" has direction, with the ink fountain at the "upstream" end of the ink train and the plate cylinder 31 at the "downstream" end of the ink train.

[0007] The ink train extends across several rolls, each serving a specific purpose. As illustrated, the ink train begins in an ink reservoir and is initially applied as a film to the fountain roll. The ductor roll intermittently engages with the fountain roll. When the ductor roll engages with the fountain roll, a certain amount of ink is transferred to the ductor roll. The ductor roll also intermittently engages with downstream rolls, transferring ink to them. The ductor roll has a "duty cycle." In this specification, this means the ratio of the duration the ductor roll is in contact with the fountain roll to the duration of a complete cycle (the ductor roller contacting the fountain roll, moving to the first downstream roller, contacting the first steel roller, and returning to the fountain roll).

[0008] Other rolls include, but are not limited to, distribution rolls, oscillator rolls, and transfer rolls. Generally, these rolls are configured to distribute ink so that the appropriate amount of ink is applied to the plate cylinder 31 in a generally uniform manner. For example, an oscillator roll is configured to reciprocate longitudinally around its axis of rotation so that the ink is spread when it is applied to the next downstream roll. The final roll is the plate cylinder 31, which applies the ink to the blanket. It is understood that each inking station 32 applies a selected single-color "ink image" to the blanket, and that each inking station 32 must apply its ink image to the appropriate position relative to other ink images so that there is no offset of the ink image in the main image.

[0009] Therefore, in this specification, “ink image” means an image of a single ink color that is part of the “main image.” In this specification, “main image” means an image made up of several ink images and is applied to a can body as a “can body application image.” It is understood that the “main image” includes several, typically multiple, ink images. For example, if the main image is the French flag (a tricolor flag characterized by three vertical stripes of blue (hoist side), white, and red), then an inking station 32 with blue ink provides a blue rectangular ink image, an inking station 32 with white ink provides a white rectangular ink image, and an inking station 32 with red ink provides a red rectangular ink image. Furthermore, assuming the main image is the French flag with the hoist on the left, the inking station 32 with blue ink provides a blue rectangular ink image on the left side of the blanket, the inking station 32 with white ink provides a white rectangular ink image in the center of the blanket immediately next to the blue rectangular ink image, and the inking station 32 with red ink provides a red rectangular ink image on the right side of the blanket immediately next to the white rectangular ink image. Once all the ink images are applied to the blanket, the main image is formed and then applied to the can body.

[0010] Currently, the operator of the can decorator 10 must manually adjust the mechanical components of the can decorator 10 (including, but not limited to, the plate cylinder 31 and the inking station 32) to determine the parameter values ​​for image registration for printing labels (e.g., set points, ink recipes including color parameters). Often, the operator must make small movements or adjustments to the mechanical components and then verify whether the label is contained in the can 16 as specified in the label specifications provided by the vendor. The operator repeats the manual adjustments until the label is correctly displayed in the can 16. Such manual adjustments require trial and error by the operator until the label is correctly displayed in the can 16. Furthermore, what appears to be correct may not actually perfectly match the label specifications, resulting in wasted time and cans.

[0011] There is room for improvement in the generation of labels for cans during the can manufacturing process. [Overview of the project]

[0012] These and other challenges are addressed by a can decoration system. The can decoration system comprises at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, each plate cylinder comprising a can decorator associated with an individual inking station and a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator, the control station comprising an input device configured to receive input including at least a label specification, a display configured to display real-time information including at least a label specification, a control system configured to monitor and control the operation of the can decorator and an automatic label generator having memory, the automatic label generator configured to receive input including at least a label specification, generate a label, determine an image registration value based at least in part on the label specification and data on previously applied labels, and transmit at least the label and image registration values ​​to the control station, the control system at least adjusts the plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations at least in part on the label and image registration values, and once the adjustments are made, the plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations print labels on undecorated cans at least in part on the labels and values.

[0013] Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept provides an automated label generator for use in can decoration by a can decorator. The can decorator has at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations, each plate cylinder associated with an individual inking station, and the can decorator is communicably coupled to a control station which includes a control system configured to control the operation of a communicably coupled can decorator. The automated label generator includes an input device configured to receive input including at least a label specification obtained from a vendor, a display configured to display real-time information including at least a label specification, and an automated label generator controller having memory, the label generator is configured to receive input including at least a label specification, generate a label, determine an image registration value at least based on the label specification and data on previously applied labels, and transmit at least the label and image registration values ​​to the control station. The control system adjusts at least multiple plate cylinders and multiple inking stations based at least partially on label and image registration values, and once the adjustments are made, the multiple plate cylinders and inking stations print labels on undecorated cans based at least partially on the labels and values.

[0014] A further exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept provides a method for automatically generating labels. This method includes: receiving an input by an automatic label generator, which includes at least a label specification; generating a label by the automatic label generator; determining a registration value by the automatic label generator, which is at least partially based on the label specification and data relating to previously applied labels; transmitting at least the label and registration values ​​by the automatic label generator to a control system of a control station configured to communicate with a can decorator and control the operation of the can decorator, which includes at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations; and adjusting the plurality of plate cylinders and inking stations at least partially based on the label and registration values ​​by the control system, which prints a label on an undecorated can by at least partially based on the label and values. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] A full understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reading the following description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0016] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of a can decorator.

[0017] [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an exemplary can decoration system, including an automated label generating device, according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept.

[0018] [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an exemplary can decoration system, including an automated label generating device, according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept.

[0019] [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is an exemplary control station including an automatic label generation device according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept.

[0020] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exemplary label.

[0021] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for automatically generating labels according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept. **DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION**

[0022] It will be understood that the specific elements shown in the figures and described herein are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept and are provided as non-limiting examples for purposes of illustration only. Thus, the specific dimensions, orientations, assemblies, numbers of components used, configurations of the embodiments, and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosed concept.

[0023] For example, terms indicating directions used herein, such as clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, up, down, upward, downward, and their derivatives, are related to the orientations of the elements shown in the drawings and are not limiting unless explicitly recited in the claims.

[0024] As used herein, the singular forms of "a" or "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0025] As used herein, “structured to [verb]” means that a specified element or assembly has a structure that is molded, sized, positioned, joined, and / or configured to perform the specified verb. For example, a member “configured to move” includes an element that is movably joined to another element and moves the member, or the member is configured to move in response to other elements or assemblies. Thus, as used herein, “structured to [verb]” describes structure, not function. Furthermore, as used herein, “structured to [verb]” means that a specified element or assembly is intended and designed to perform the specified verb. Thus, an element that is simply capable of performing the specified verb but is not intended and designed to perform the specified verb is not “structured to [verb].”

[0026] As used herein, “associated” means that elements are part of the same assembly and / or operate together or interact with each other in some manner. For example, a car has four tires and four hubcaps. All elements are joined together as part of the car, but each hubcap is understood to be “associated” with a particular tire.

[0027] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are “joined” means that, insofar as a link occurs, the parts are joined directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components) or operate together. As used herein, “directly coupled” means that two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, “fixedly coupled” or “fixed” means that two components are coupled so that they move as a unit while maintaining a certain orientation relative to each other. As used herein, “adjustably fixed” means that two components are coupled so that they move as a unit while maintaining a certain general orientation or position relative to each other, although they are movable within a limited range or around a single axis. For example, a doorknob is “adjustably fixed” to a door in that it is rotatable, but generally, a doorknob remains in a single position relative to the door. Furthermore, the cartridge (nib and ink reservoir) of a retractable pen is "adjustably fixed" to the casing in the sense that the cartridge moves between a retracted position and an extended position, but generally maintains its orientation relative to the casing. Thus, when two elements are joined, all parts of those elements are joined. However, the statement that a particular part of the first element is joined to the second element (for example, the first end of an axle is joined to the first wheel) means that the particular part of the first element is positioned closer to the second element than the other parts. Moreover, an object that rests on another object and is held in place by gravity alone cannot be said to be "joined" to the object below unless the object above is otherwise substantially held in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not joined to the table, but a book glued to a table is joined to the table.

[0028] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components “engage” with each other means that those elements exert force or bias on each other, either directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Furthermore, as used herein with respect to moving parts, a moving part may “engage” with another element while moving from one position to another, and / or “engage” with another element when it reaches the described position. Thus, the statements “When element A moves to the first position of element A, element A engages with element B” and “When element A is in the first position of element A, element A engages with element B” are equivalent and are understood to mean that element A engages with element B while moving to the first position of element A, and / or engages with element B while element A is in the first position of element A.

[0029] As used herein, “correspond” means that two structural components are sized and molded to be similar to each other so that they can be joined with minimal friction. Thus, an opening “corresponding” to a component is sized slightly larger than the component so that the component can pass through the opening with minimal friction. This definition is modified when two components “snugly” fit together, in which case the difference in size between the components becomes even smaller and the amount of friction increases. If the elements defining the opening and / or the component inserted into the opening are made of a deformable or compressible material, the opening may be slightly smaller than the component inserted into the opening. With respect to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more “corresponding” surfaces, shapes, or lines have substantially the same size, shape, and contour.

[0030] As used herein, “several” means one or more integers greater than one (i.e., multiple). That is, for example, the phrase “several elements” means one or more elements. Note in particular that the statement “several [X]” includes a single [X].

[0031] As used herein, "around" in phrases such as "[arranged around]", "[extending around]", or "[X] degrees around]" means to surround, extend around, or be measured around. When used in relation to measurement or a similar method, "about" means "approximately," i.e., within an approximate range related to the measurement as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0032] As used herein, an “elongated” element essentially includes a longitudinal axis and / or longitudinal line extending in the direction of elongation.

[0033] As used herein, “generally” means “in a general manner” in relation to the term being modified, as would be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0034] As used herein, “substantially” means “for the most part” as understood by those skilled in the art in relation to the term it modifies.

[0035] As used herein, “at” means, as understood by those skilled in the art, above and / or near the term being modified.

[0036] An exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept provides an automated label generator and method for use in can manufacturing. The automated label generator automatically generates labels upon receiving input, including label specifications obtained from a customer (but not limited to, e.g., a vendor). Upon generating the labels, the automated label generator determines image registration values ​​based at least partially on the label specifications and data on labels previously applied by can decorators and / or other can decorators. The automated label generator then automatically transmits the label and image registration values ​​to a control station communicatively coupled to the can decorator. The control station includes a control system configured to monitor and control the operation of the can decorator. Upon receiving the labels and values, the control system adjusts one or more can decorator components based at least partially on the label and image registration values. The can decorator (but not limited to, e.g., multiple plate cylinders and multiple inking stations) prints the labels on an undecorated can 16. By automatically generating labels and adjusting can decorators based on label and image registration values, the automated label generator eliminates the repetitive manual adjustments and trial and error required by conventional label generation systems and methods, thereby significantly accelerating the label generation and modification process. By utilizing machine learning based on a large amount of data on previously applied labels, the automated label generator further improves label accuracy, enabling can decorators to adjust their components to the correct position and parameters on the first try.

[0037] Figure 2 shows a can decorating system 100 according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept. The can decorating system 100 comprises a can decorator 10 and a control station 200 including an automatic label generator 1. The control station 200 is communicably coupled to the can decorator 10 by a wired or wireless connection. The control station 200 includes a control system 215 (shown in Figure 4) configured to monitor and control the operation of the can decorator 10. The control station 200 may, but is not limited to, a computer, workstation, etc., located near the can decorator 10. The control station 200 will be further described with reference to Figure 4. Figures 2 and 4 show the automatic label generator 1 located within the control station 200, but it will be understood that, without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept, the automatic label generator may be a standalone device, but is not limited to, a PC or workstation configured solely for the purpose of automatically generating labels. In examples including a standalone automatic label generator, an input device and a display may be included in the automatic label generator. In some examples, as shown in Figure 3, the control station 200 may be located within a main control room 240 that controls the entire can manufacturing process. In these examples, the control station 200 may be coupled to a can decorator control station 220 that controls the operation of the can decorator 10, and the automatic label generator 1 located in the control station 200 is communicatively coupled to the can decorator control station 220 and transmits signals to the can decorator control station 220 that include at least label and image registration values. In some examples, a controller (not shown) having the same functions as the control station 200 may be located within the can decorator 10. In these examples, the automatic label generator 1 may be located within the controller.

[0038] The automatic label generator 1 is configured to receive a label specification, generate a label, determine values ​​for image registration based at least partially on the label specification and data on previously applied labels, and transmit at least the label and values ​​to the control station 200. Upon receiving at least the label and values, the control station 200 (i.e., the control system 215 shown in Figure 4) causes the can decorator 10 to adjust its printing components based at least partially on the label and values ​​to print the label on the undecorated can 16. The label specification is obtained from a customer (e.g., a vendor of canned products) and may include at least images of the desired finished label to be printed on the can 16, such as nutrition information and regulatory disclosures. Upon receiving a new label specification from a vendor, the user (e.g., a can decorator operator) may stop the can decorator 10 via the control station 200 and input (e.g., load) the label specification to the automatic label generator 1 via the input device 205.

[0039] Upon receiving the label specifications, the automatic label generator 1 is configured to produce labels to be printed on undecorated cans 16. An exemplary label is shown in Figure 5. As shown in Figure 5, the label may include, but is not limited to, a color image of, for example, a logo, nutrition information, promotional information, and / or regulatory disclosures. In some examples, the label may consist of multiple labels, each label may correspond to one plate cylinder and associated inking station.

[0040] The automatic label generator 1 is configured to determine image registration values ​​based on the label once it has generated a label. Image registration includes, but is not limited to, cylinder and ink registration. Cylinder registration includes, but is not limited to, vertical registration, which aligns the vertical (i.e., up and down) set points; circumferential registration, which aligns the circumferential (i.e., left and right) set points; and pressure registration, which aligns the pressure points. Cylinder registration is performed for each cylinder 31. For cylinder registration, the automatic label generator 1 is further configured to determine set points for each cylinder, including vertical set points, circumferential set points, and pressure points. Ink registration includes, but is not limited to, an ink recipe indicating how much base and pigment should be mixed to obtain the desired color, and also includes, but is not limited to, color registration parameters such as ink level, density, hue, and shade gradation. For ink registration, the automatic label generating device 1 is further configured to generate an ink recipe including at least color parameters for each inking station 32 and to set the ink key set point for each individual inking station 32.

[0041] Data on previously applied labels includes at least individual registration information and corresponding can decorator information. Individual registration information includes, but is not limited to, previous setpoints and ink recipes optimized for previously applied labels. Corresponding can decorator information includes at least the can decorator's status (but is not limited to, e.g., usage, years, operating history, etc.) and its environmental information (but is not limited to, e.g., ambient temperature, ambient humidity, etc.). For example, the automatic label generator 1 automatically and continuously collects data. The data may include at least data on the can decorator 10 and multiple (but is not limited to, e.g., thousands) cans 16 printed by the can decorator 10, the can decorator's status, and its environmental information. Furthermore, the automatic label generator 1 continuously updates the data and learns, at least partially, based on the updated data through its internal machine learning algorithm. In some examples, the data may include data on labels applied in the past, as well as individual registration information and corresponding can decorator information for can decorators that have the same or different specifications as can decorator 10 and are operating in different locations (domestic and / or overseas). In these examples, the automated label generator 1 can learn based on a large amount of data collected from around the world and optimize the image registration values ​​based on that large amount of data, thereby significantly improving the accuracy of the determined values ​​compared to cases where learning is based only on local data or when conventional label generation systems and methods that require manual adjustments based on inference are used.

[0042] Once the image registration value is determined, the automatic label generator 1 transmits at least the label and the value to the control station 200. In an example using a can decorator with an internal controller, the automatic label generator 1 sends the signal to the controller. The control system 215 then adjusts the can decorator 10 or its printing components based at least partially on at least the label and the value. The printing components may include, but are not limited to, a plurality of plate cylinders 31 and a plurality of inking stations 32, each plate cylinder 31 associated with an individual inking station 32. Upon receiving the label and image registration value, the control system 215 adjusts at least the plate cylinders 31 and the inking stations 32 based at least partially on at least the label and the value. That is, the control system 215 moves the plate cylinder 31 to a setpoint specified by the value and causes the inking stations 32 to set up their ink reservoir components based on the ink recipe. Once the adjustments are made, the plurality of plate cylinders 31 and the plurality of inking stations 32 print labels on the undecorated cans 16. In some examples, the control system 215 may include an automatic registration device (not shown) and / or an automatic color registration device (but not limited to, an automatic ink reservoir). In these examples, the automatic label generating device 1, when combined with the automatic registration device and / or automatic ink reservoir, can significantly speed up the label generating and changing process compared to when conventional label generating and changing systems and methods are used.

[0043] In some examples, the automatic label generator 1 is further configured to determine whether the label is printed on the can 16 as specified in at least one of the label and the label specifications. For such determination, the automatic label generator 1 may acquire a 3D image, for example, from a camera or image sensor (not shown) located in, on, or near the can decorator 10, examine the data of the first one or more cans 16 printed, and determine whether the label on the first one or more cans 16 is displayed as specified by at least one of the label and the label specifications. In response to determining that the label is not printed as specified, the automatic label generator 1 determines whether the label and / or image registration values ​​need to be changed, or whether the can decorator 10 needs to be further adjusted. For example, if the label contains an error (e.g., an incorrect color density), the automatic label generator 1 determines that the label and / or image registration values ​​need to be changed. In such an example, the automatic label generator 1 is further configured to change the label and / or image registration values ​​and transmit the changed label and / or changed values ​​to the control station 200. The control system 215 then adjusts one or more plate cylinders 31 and inking stations 32 based at least partially on the changed label and / or changed values. If the automatic label generator 1 determines that the can decorator 10 needs further adjustment (for example, due to damage to a component of the inking station 32), but the label does not need adjustment, the automatic label generator 1 is further configured to shut down the can decorator 10 and send a warning to at least one of the control station 200 or the can decorator operator. The warning may include instructions for adjusting the can decorator 10 (for example, replacing a damaged part). The control system 215 may adjust the can decorator 10, or the user may manually adjust the can decorator 10 based at least partially on the instructions.When the can decorator 10 is adjusted, the control system 215 turns on the power to the can decorator 10, and the multiple printing cylinders 31 and multiple inking stations 32 print labels on the undecorated cans 16 based at least partially on the labels.

[0044] Therefore, the automated label generator 1, according to the disclosed concept, automatically generates labels and determines image registration values ​​without the need for repeated manual adjustments based on guesswork that was conventionally required to generate labels. Such automated label generation eliminates human error associated with manual adjustments and guesswork, significantly reducing can manufacturing time and costs, and improving the accuracy of label generation. Furthermore, by leveraging machine learning techniques based on a large amount of data collected from around the world and considering all relevant states, parameters, problems, and / or results related to a particular can decorator, the automated label generator 1 further improves the accuracy of label generation. In addition, by automatically changing the label and / or image registration values ​​based on immediate data feedback from relevant sensors, the automated label generator 1 further improves the accuracy of label generation. The improved accuracy allows the automated label generator 1 to, for example, ensure that the plate cylinder 31 and inking station 32 are adjusted and / or moved to the correct position on the first try, although this is not limited to these cases.

[0045] Figure 4 shows a block diagram of an exemplary control station 200 including an automatic label generator 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept. The control station 200 is communicatively coupled to the can decorator 10. The control station 200 may be a PC, workstation, or laptop computer and includes an input device 205, a display 210, a control system 215, memory 220, and the automatic label generator 1. The input device 205 may, but is not limited to, a keyboard, touchscreen, USB port, etc. The display 210 may, but is not limited to, an LCD, OLED, etc. A user can use the input device 205 to provide input to the automatic label generator 1. The control system 215 is configured to monitor and control the operation of various components of the can decorator 10. This may include a processor (but is not limited to, a microprocessor, microcontroller, or other suitable processing unit). Memory 220 may be one or more of various types of internal and / or external storage media (but not limited to) such as RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, and FLASH, which provide storage registers (i.e., machine-readable media) for storing data in the form of the computer's internal storage area, and may be volatile or non-volatile memory, and interface with the memory. Memory 220 stores several routines, instructions, or codes that can be executed by the control system 215.

[0046] The automatic label generating device 1 may include its own processor 3 and memory 5. The processor may be, for example, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or other suitable processing unit or circuit, but is not limited to these. The memory 5 may be, for example, one or more of various types of internal and / or external storage media, such as RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, but is not limited to these. The memory may provide storage registers, i.e., machine-readable media, for data storage in a manner similar to the internal storage area of ​​a computer, and may be volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory 5 may store at least instructions 6 for automatically generating labels. It may also store data 7 about labels applied in the past. The data 7 may include registration information and corresponding can decorator information for each label. For example, the data 7 may include at least data for multiple (for example, thousands) cans 16 printed by the can decorator 10 based on previously applied labels, the status of the can decorator, and their environmental information. Data 7 may also have the same or different specifications as the can decorator 10 and may include similar information regarding can decorators operating in different locations (domestic and international). The automatic label generator 1 continuously and automatically updates Data 7. Memory 5 may also include a machine learning algorithm 8 that learns based on Data 7 and executes instructions 6 based at least partially on that learning. The automatic label generator 1 further outputs a signal that allows the display 210 to display real-time information. Real-time information may include, but is not limited to, acquired data including the input label specifications, the new label being generated, the determined value, the generated ink recipe, and the can being printed. The automatic label generator 1 also transmits a signal to the control station 200 that includes the label, the image registration value, and the ink recipe. In some examples, the automatic label generator 1 may be contained within the control system 215 of the control station 200.

[0047] Figure 5 shows an exemplary label 9 produced by the automated label generator 1 of Figures 2-4, according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept. The label 9 may include, but is not limited to, images, nutritional information, regulatory disclosures, container size, etc., as specified in the label specifications from the vendor. The label 9 may also be, but is not limited to, digitally printed onto an undecorated can via film.

[0048] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method 6000 for automatically generating labels for use in a can decorating system, according to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the disclosed concept. The can decorating system is similar to the can decorating systems 100, 100' described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Method 6000 may be performed by an automatic label generating device 1, a can decorator 10, and / or their components.

[0049] In step 6010, the automated label generator receives an input that includes at least the label specifications.

[0050] In step 6020, the automated label generator generates labels.

[0051] In step 6030, the automatic label generator determines the image registration value based at least partially on the label specifications and data on previously applied labels.

[0052] In step 6040, the automatic label generator transmits at least the label and image registration values ​​to the control station of the can decorator. The control station is communicatively coupled to the can decorator and receives at least the label and its values. The control station includes a control system configured to monitor and control the operation of the can decorator.

[0053] In step 6050, the control system of the control station adjusts at least several plate cylinders and several inking stations based at least partially on the label and image registration values. Once the adjustments are made, the control system turns on the power to the can decorator. In some examples, adjustments to the can decorator components may be made manually based on the label and image registration values ​​from the automatic label generator.

[0054] In step 6060, multiple printing cylinders and inking stations print labels on undecorated cans based at least partially on the labels and values.

[0055] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that, in light of the overall teachings of this disclosure, various modifications and alternatives to those details can be developed. Accordingly, the specific configurations disclosed are intended to be illustrative only and do not limit the scope of the disclosed concept to be given by the entire scope of the appended claims and all their equivalents.

Claims

1. It is a can decoration system, A can decorator comprising at least multiple printing cylinders and multiple inking stations, each printing cylinder associated with an individual inking station, A control station is communicatively coupled to the aforementioned can decorator, It is equipped with, The control station is An input device configured to accept input including at least a label specification, A display configured to display real-time information including at least the label specifications, A control system configured to monitor and control the operation of the can decorator, An automatic label generation device equipped with memory, It is equipped with, The automatic label generation device is configured to receive an input including at least the label specifications, generate a label, determine an image registration value based at least partially on the label specifications and data on previously applied labels, and transmit at least the label and the image registration value to the control station. A can decorating system comprising: a control system that adjusts at least the plurality of plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations at least partially based on the label and the image registration values, and once the adjustments are made, the plurality of plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print the label on an undecorated can at least partially based on the label and the values.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the automatic label generating device is further configured to determine the set points for each plate cylinder and each inking station, and to generate an ink recipe for each inking station that includes at least color parameters, in order to determine the image registration values.

3. The memory includes a machine learning algorithm, and the automatic label generation device automatically and continuously collects the data, updates the data, and performs learning based at least partially on the updated data. The system according to claim 1, wherein the data relating to previously applied labels includes at least individual registration information and corresponding can decorator information.

4. Each of the aforementioned registration pieces of information includes at least a previous set point and ink recipe optimized for a previously applied label. The corresponding can decorator information includes at least the can decorator's state and environmental information. The system according to claim 3, wherein the state of the can decorator includes at least the usage status, years and operating history of the can decorator, and the environmental information includes at least ambient temperature and ambient humidity.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the data further includes data relating to labels applied in the past, which includes at least individual registration information and corresponding can decorator information for can decorators operating in different locations domestically and / or overseas.

6. The system according to claim 2, wherein the set points include vertical set points, circumferential set points, and plate pressure points of individual plate cylinders, and ink key set points of individual inking stations.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the automatic label generating device is further configured to determine whether the label is printed on the undecorated can as specified in at least one of the label and the label specifications.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, in order to determine whether the label is printed on the undecorated can as specified, the automatic label generator is further configured to determine whether the applied label is displayed on the first printed can or more cans as specified in at least one of the label and the label specifications.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, in response to a determination that the applied label is not displayed on one or more cans that were initially printed, the automatic label generator is further configured to determine whether the label and / or the value needs to be adjusted, or whether the can decorator needs to be adjusted.

10. In response to a determination that the label and / or value needs to be adjusted, the automatic label generator is further configured to change the label and / or value and transmit the changed label and / or value to the control station. The control system adjusts one or more plate cylinders and inking stations at least partially based on the changed label and / or the changed value. The system according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print the label on the undecorated can based at least in part on the modified label and / or the modified value.

11. In response to a determination that the can decorator needs to be adjusted, the automatic label generating device is further configured to shut down the can decorator and send a warning to the can decorator operator, including instructions for adjusting the can decorator. The control system adjusts the can decorator at least partially based on the instruction, and once the can decorator is adjusted, it turns on the power to the can decorator. The system according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print the label onto the undecorated can based at least partially on the label.

12. An automatic label generation device for use in can decoration by a can decorator, having at least multiple plate cylinders and multiple inking stations, each plate cylinder being associated with an individual inking station, The can decorator is communicably coupled to a control station which includes a control system configured to control the operation of the communicably coupled can decorator. The automatic label generation device is An input device configured to receive input including at least label specifications obtained from a vendor, A display configured to display real-time information including at least the label specifications, An automatic label generation device controller equipped with memory, It is equipped with, The automatic label generation device is configured to receive an input including at least the label specifications, generate a label, determine an image registration value based at least partially on the label specifications and data on previously applied labels, and transmit at least the label and the image registration value to the control station. An automatic label generating apparatus wherein the control system adjusts at least the plurality of plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations at least partially based on the label and the image registration values, and once the adjustment is made, the plurality of plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print the label on an undecorated can at least partially based on the label and the values.

13. A method for automatically generating labels, The automated label generator receives input that includes at least the label specifications, The automatic label generating device generates labels, The automatic label generation device determines the image registration value based at least partially on the label specifications and data on previously applied labels, The automatic label generation device transmits at least the label and image registration values ​​to a control station communicably coupled to the can decorator, wherein the control station includes a control system configured to control the operation of the can decorator, and the can decorator includes at least a plurality of plate cylinders and a plurality of inking stations. The control system adjusts at least the plurality of plate cylinders and the plurality of inking stations based at least partially on the label and image registration values, The plurality of printing cylinders and the plurality of inking stations print the label on an undecorated can, based at least partially on the label and the value. A method that includes this.

14. Determining the image registration value is Determining the set point for each printing cylinder and each inking station, To generate an ink recipe that includes at least the color parameters for each inking station, The method according to claim 13, including the method described in claim 13.

15. The aforementioned automatic label generation device includes a memory equipped with a machine learning algorithm. The above method further, The automatic label generation device automatically and continuously collects data on labels applied in the past, wherein the data includes at least individual registration information and corresponding can decorator information. The automatic label generation device updates the data, The automatic label generation device performs learning based at least partially on the updated data, The method according to claim 13, including the method described in claim 13.

16. Each of the aforementioned registration pieces of information includes at least a previous set point and ink recipe optimized for a previously applied label. The corresponding can decorator information includes at least the can decorator's state and environmental information. The method according to claim 15, wherein the state of the can decorator includes at least the usage status, years and operating history of the can decorator, and the environmental information includes at least ambient temperature and ambient humidity.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the data further includes data relating to labels applied in the past, which includes at least individual registration information and corresponding can decorator information for can decorators operating in different locations domestically and / or overseas.

18. The automatic label generating device determines whether the label is printed on the undecorated can as specified in at least one of the label and the label specifications, In response to the determination that the label is not printed on the undecorated can as specified in at least one of the label and the label specifications, the automatic label generating device determines whether it is necessary to adjust the label and / or the value, or whether it is necessary to adjust the can decorator. The method according to claim 13, further comprising:

19. In response to a determination that the label and / or the value needs to be adjusted, the automatic label generating device modifies the label and / or the value, The automatic label generation device transmits the modified label and / or modified value to the control station. The control system adjusts one or more plate cylinders and inking stations at least partially based on the changed label and / or the changed value, The control system turns on the power to the can decorator, Printing the label onto the undecorated can based at least partially on the modified label and / or the modified value using one or more adjusted plate cylinders and inking stations, The method according to claim 18, further comprising:

20. In response to a determination that the can decorator needs to be adjusted, the automatic label generating device shuts down the can decorator. The automatic label generating device transmits a warning to the control system, including instructions for adjusting the can decorator. The control system adjusts the can decorator at least partially based on the instructions, The control system turns on the power to the can decorator, The above-mentioned plurality of printing cylinders and plurality of inking stations are used to print the label onto the undecorated can, The method according to claim 18, further comprising:

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