Labeling apparatus and method

Abstract

The labeling device (1) comprises a supply roller (11), a gluing roller (12), a cutting roller (13) equipped with a knife (130), and a transport carousel (14) which includes a plurality of suction projection arrays (140) that are angularly dispersed along the perimeter of the transport carousel (14) and are provided with corresponding recesses (140R). The transport carousel (14) receives the web (2) from the supply roller (11), holds it in the suction projection arrays (140), and transports the label (20) to the unloading area (S). The transport carousel (14) interacts with the gluing roller (12) in the gluing area (I) and with the cutting roller (13) in the cutting area (T). The gluing roller (12) and the transport carousel (14) rotate in opposite directions, and the gluing area (I) follows the cutting area (T) with respect to the movement path of the web (2). The adhesive roller (12) works in conjunction with the suction projection array (140) to apply adhesive, and the knife (130) is periodically inserted into the recesses (140R) of the suction projection array (140) to cut the web (2) into labels (20).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a labeling device and a labeling method for affixing labels to the surface of a container. [Background technology]

[0002] Labeling is common in the beverage industry and other industries where it is necessary to apply adhesive to labels so that they can be attached to surfaces in continuous cycle industrial processes.

[0003] Typically, labels are obtained from a web wound on a roll. The roll is then cut to obtain labels to be affixed to containers.

[0004] With regard to gluing, that is, the application of adhesive to the appropriate area of ​​the web, several solutions known in the prior art involve the use of a pre-glued web. Solutions in which the web is pre-glued are described, for example, in patent documents EP1871674B1 and EP2507135B1.

[0005] However, this type of solution carries the risk of defects due to improper labeling, suggesting that it would be preferable to employ an alternative solution where adhesive is applied after the web has been unraveled, for example, just before or immediately after it is cut.

[0006] An example of a system in which adhesive is applied after the web is unraveled is described in patent document WO2019243203A1, in which the adhesive is applied to the web by a spray gun.

[0007] Regarding cutting, in some solutions known in the prior art, the web is transported by a drum equipped with an anvil and cut by one or more rotating knives attached to cutting rollers. The one or more rotating knives interact with the anvil so that the web, trapped between the knives and the anvil, is cut by pressure cutting. Examples of this approach are described in patent documents EP2067701B1, EP2221154B1, EP2279954B1, DE102013215999A1 and EP3919397A1. This approach has the disadvantage that the interaction between the knife and the anvil to perform pressure cutting causes rapid wear of the knife.

[0008] Alternative cutting methods are described in patent documents WO2021239626A1, WO2021198072A1, and WO2022069415A1, in which a slot for housing a knife is provided in a drum that transports the web while it is being cut. However, this system has the disadvantage of being complex and increasing the cost of the equipment.

[0009] Another method for cutting a web is described in Patent Document EP3925743A1, in which a recess is provided in a conveying drum, and a rotating knife attached to a cutting roller interacts with the recess while the web is being cut. This cutting method has the advantage of being more economical than a solution in which the blade is housed in a slot in the conveying drum and more reliable than a solution in which the blade interacts with an anvil. However, the apparatus of Patent Document EP3925743A1 has the disadvantage of being complex and cumbersome. Furthermore, the approach proposed in EP3925743A1, which applies tension to the web while it is being cut by combining the use of rotation of the conveying drum with the selective use of upstream and downstream suction of the recess, is complex and not very reliable.

[0010] Patent document EP3647213A1 describes a cutting system provided with multiple suction supports defining a path, wherein a recess is located between two consecutive supports, configured to interact with a knife for cutting a label. These supports are connected to a rotating shaft so as to rotate around an axis and move relative to each other at the same time. This system is therefore particularly inconvenient and complex because, at the time of cutting, the two consecutive supports must be in the correct position to allow the knife to be inserted into the recess formed by the two consecutive supports. In this regard, there is still a need for a device that is compact or miniaturized, capable of applying adhesive to the web after the web has been unraveled, for gluing and cutting a web and then attaching a label, and that has a simple, robust, and reliable cutting system. It is also necessary to prevent the knife from being contaminated with adhesive so that the label can be cut cleanly. [Overview of the project]

[0011] This disclosure aims to provide a labeling apparatus and method that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art.

[0012] More specifically, an object of this disclosure is to provide a labeling apparatus and method that enables a web to be glued and cut after being unraveled, and subsequently to be labeled using a particularly miniaturized apparatus. Another object of this disclosure is to (glue and) cut labels in a particularly simple, robust, and reliable manner.

[0013] These objectives are fully achieved by the labeling apparatus and method of the present disclosure as characterized in the appended claims.

[0014] The purpose of a labeling device is, in essence, to provide a series of labels with adhesive on them, for attaching to each container.

[0015] More specifically, the labels are made from polymer materials, but they can be made from other materials.

[0016] Labels are obtained by cutting the web such that each cut separates a web piece from the web itself, and each piece defines the label. Preferably, the cuts are perpendicular to the web so that the labels are rectangular in shape, but embodiments in which the labels have a different shape (e.g., rhombus) are not excluded.

[0017] Each label has adhesive on its leading and trailing regions, and therefore each piece (defining a corresponding label) has a leading and trailing region, both of which have adhesive on them when ready to be attached to a container.

[0018] This device includes a feed roller. The feed roller has the function of applying a pulling force to the web, and for this purpose the web is wrapped at least partially around the feed roller. In one example, the feed roller rotates about a vertical axis. The feed roller is configured to feed the web.

[0019] The labeling device also includes a gluing roller. The gluing roller has the function of applying adhesive to the surface of the web, more specifically, to the surface of the web, which is intended to define the leading and trailing areas to which the adhesive will be applied. In one example, the gluing roller rotates around a vertical axis. In particular, the gluing roller rotates around a third axis of rotation.

[0020] The labeling device may include an adhesive container configured to supply adhesive to a gluing roller. The device may also include a scraper mounted following the adhesive container in the direction of rotation of the gluing roller and configured to adjust the distribution of adhesive (i.e., the level of adhesive) on the outer surface of the gluing roller.

[0021] The gluing roller may also have on its outer surface a plurality of ridges and / or grooves that define, for example, a jagged surface, or alternating grooves and ridges that define a predetermined pattern.

[0022] The labeling device also includes a cutting roller. The cutting roller has the function of cutting the web and separating the pieces. The cutting roller comprises at least one knife configured to cut the web. At least one knife rotates in conjunction with the cutting roller. In one example, the cutting roller rotates around a vertical axis. In particular, the cutting roller rotates around a second axis of rotation.

[0023] The labeling device also includes a transport carousel. The transport carousel has the function of defining the movement path of the web, along which the web is kept attached to the transport carousel (e.g., the side surface of the transport carousel). The transport carousel rotates about a first axis of rotation. Thus, a second axis of rotation is parallel to the first axis of rotation, and a third axis of rotation is parallel to the first axis of rotation.

[0024] The web interacts with the cutting rollers in the cutting area along its movement path. Therefore, the transport carousel has the function of interacting with the cutting rollers to cut the pieces.

[0025] In one embodiment, the web also interacts with the gluing roller in the gluing region along its movement path. Thus, the transport carousel also interacts with the gluing roller to apply adhesive to the surface of the web. In particular, the gluing roller and the transport carousel may be configured to rotate in opposite directions. In this way, their respective tangential velocities in the gluing region coincide.

[0026] The transfer carousel receives the web from the supply roller in the loading area.

[0027] The transport carousel is configured in the unloading area to provide cut (and glued) labels at the exit.

[0028] In one embodiment, the movement path also includes a stretch located downstream of the cutting region. In this case, the movement path is a path for moving the web to the cutting region, and then downstream of the cutting region, it is a path for moving the web pieces, i.e., labels.

[0029] In this case, in one embodiment, the transfer carousel, in cooperation with the labeling machine (or central carousel), transfers the labels to the containers (in the unloading area) along the movement path downstream of the cutting area. Thus, the transfer carousel also has the function of transferring the cut and glued labels to the containers (located on the labeling machine and moving along the respective container movement path, for example, the labeling machine may be a rotary machine or, alternatively, a linear machine).

[0030] The unloading area is positioned at an angle from the loading area along the web's movement path. The gluing and cutting areas are positioned at an angle between the loading and unloading areas with respect to the web's movement path. Preferably, the gluing area follows the cutting area in the direction of web supply from the loading area to the unloading area, i.e., with respect to the web's movement path (although the reverse may also be true). Applying adhesive after cutting prevents the knife from becoming contaminated with adhesive, thus allowing the knife to cleanly cut the label.

[0031] In one embodiment, the transport carousel includes a plurality of suction projections (suction pads or suction shoes) that are angularly dispersed along the periphery of the transport carousel.

[0032] Each suction projection array may consist of one suction projection (i.e., a single suction projection) or a pair of suction projections (i.e., one gluing suction projection and one cutting suction projection).

[0033] Unless otherwise specified, the following description applies to both the first embodiment, which consists of one (single) suction projection, and the second embodiment, which consists of a pair of suction projections (for each array of suction projections).

[0034] Each projection in the suction projection array is provided with a recess (radially oriented, i.e., a radial recess). The recess divides each suction projection into two parts, namely an expansion section, so that each suction projection includes a leading expansion section and a trailing expansion section, with the recess interposed between the leading and trailing expansion sections. For each suction projection, the leading and trailing expansion sections project radially from the periphery of the transport carousel so as to be away from the axis of rotation of the transport carousel. For each suction projection, the leading expansion section is located in front of the trailing expansion section in the direction of rotation of the transport carousel.

[0035] The transfer carousel is configured to keep the web (received from the supply roller in the loading area) attached to one or more suction projection arrays. In one example, the transfer carousel is also configured to hold the label with the suction projections while keeping the label in contact with the corresponding bottle.

[0036] Preferably, the multiple suction protrusions are located on a transport carousel. In particular, the multiple suction protrusions are configured to move in conjunction with the transport carousel. The transport carousel may rotate, for example, at a constant speed, around a rotation axis. Preferably, the multiple suction protrusion system is configured to move (around the rotation axis) at a speed equal to the speed of the transport carousel. More specifically, the recesses move in conjunction with the suction protrusions, and more specifically, in conjunction with the transport carousel.

[0037] Since the suction protrusions move together with the transport carousel at the same speed, the distance between one suction protrusion and the next is constant.

[0038] Preferably, each suction projection in the suction projection system includes a pair of parts (or extensions) and a recess, the recess being interposed between the extensions, and the extensions being made of the same body. In other words, each suction projection includes a body having a pair of extensions and a recess interposed between the two extensions.

[0039] The rotation of the cutting roller and the transport carousel are synchronized so that at least one knife of the cutting roller is periodically inserted into a recess of the suction projection array to cut the web. The interaction between the knife of the cutting roller and the recess of the suction projection array of the transport carousel occurs during the cutting step. Thus, the web is cut during the cutting step to separate its pieces. In particular, the cutting roller and the transport carousel may be configured to rotate in opposite directions. In this way, their respective tangential velocities in the cutting region match.

[0040] Furthermore, the rotation of the gluing roller is synchronized with the rotation of the transport carousel, and the gluing roller works in conjunction with the suction projection array of the transport carousel to apply adhesive to the areas of the web corresponding to the leading and trailing regions of the label. The interaction between the gluing roller and the suction projection array of the transport carousel occurs during the gluing step. Thus, the adhesive is applied to the web during the gluing step to form adhesive (or tacky) areas of the web.

[0041] Therefore, there are at least a first and a second embodiment. In the first embodiment, each suction projection array of a plurality of suction projection arrays consists of one suction projection (i.e., a single suction projection), in which case the suction projection preferably interacts with the gluing roller and also with the cutting roller, i.e., the gluing roller and the cutting roller are configured to interact with the same suction projection. In the second embodiment, each suction projection array of a plurality of suction projection arrays consists of one gluing suction projection and one cutting suction projection (defining a pair of suction projections), the gluing suction projection is configured to interact with the gluing roller during the gluing step, and the cutting suction projection is configured to interact with the cutting roller during the cutting step.

[0042] This device also includes a control unit.

[0043] It should be noted that synchronization can be performed (exclusively) by a mechanical system. However, since the cutting roller, gluing roller and transport carousel each include their own drive motor unit configured to rotate them around their respective axes of rotation, synchronization is preferably performed via a control unit. In this case, the control unit is connected to the gluing roller, cutting roller and transport carousel (i.e., the motor drive units of the gluing roller, cutting roller and transport carousel) and synchronizes their respective rotations so that the gluing roller works in conjunction with the suction projection array of the transport carousel to apply adhesive to the leading and trailing extensions, and at least one knife of the cutting roller is periodically inserted into the recesses of the suction projection array to cut the web.

[0044] The fact that label cutting, gluing, and transfer to bottles all occur on the same transfer carousel with recesses makes the device particularly compact and reliable. In practice, this configuration reduces the number of components, allows components to be placed in a confined space, and eliminates the need for the knife to interact with an anvil or other contact surface.

[0045] In one embodiment, the trailing extension is capable of operating in a recessed position relative to the leading extension. In other words, the trailing extension protrudes radially from the transport carousel to a smaller extent than the leading extension. Thus, the gluing roller is configured to interact with the leading extension to apply adhesive to the surface of the web positioned in the leading extension.

[0046] For example, each suction projection array may be formed asymmetrically around an axis passing through its center (i.e., around the center of the suction projection array or an axis passing through the recess and rotation axis of the transport carousel), resulting in the subsequent extensions projecting radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to a smaller extent than the initial extensions. Thus, the subsequent projections protrude less from the surface of the transport carousel than the initial projections.

[0047] In addition, or alternatively, the trailing extension is movable between an extended position and a retracted (radially) position, and in the retracted position, it protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to a smaller extent than the leading extension. In the extended position, the trailing extension may protrude radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to the same extent as the leading extension, or, if necessary, to a smaller extent.

[0048] The trailing extension may be configured to retract radially relative to the leading extension toward the rotation axis of the transport carousel, at least in the gluing area. For example, the trailing extension may be moved by a cam.

[0049] Preferably, in the work cycle, the gluing roller is configured to apply adhesive (i.e., the gluing roller is configured to work in conjunction with a suction projection array of the transport carousel to apply adhesive), and the cutting roller is configured to cut the label from the web (i.e., at least one knife of the cutting roller is inserted into a recess of the suction projection array to cut the label from the web). In other words, the work cycle includes the steps of gluing and cutting the label from the web.

[0050] In particular, if the cutting roller (i.e., the cutting area) is in front of the gluing roller (i.e., the gluing area), the cutting step precedes the label gluing step.

[0051] In one embodiment, the transport carousel rotates at a constant angular velocity during the work cycle. This also keeps the peripheral velocity of the transport carousel constant (i.e., the peripheral velocity of the region of the transport carousel that is adapted to receive the web and keep the web attached to it).

[0052] Furthermore, the angular velocity of the transfer carousel is variable, for example, depending on the production speed of the apparatus (from one work cycle to the next, or within the same work cycle), and more specifically, depending on the angular velocity of the central carousel, which is configured to receive multiple bottles and interact with the transfer carousel to bring the cut labels into contact with the bottles.

[0053] In one embodiment, the feed roller may be configured to vary its rotational speed between a maximum and a minimum value (i.e., a value lower than or less than the maximum value) within the same work cycle. For example, the control unit may be programmed to vary the rotational speed of the feed roller between a maximum and a minimum value (preferably within the same work cycle). In this case, the maximum speed of the feed roller is set to give the web a travel speed equal to the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. Thus, when the feed roller rotates at its maximum speed, the travel speed given to the web by the feed roller matches the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. On the other hand, when the feed roller rotates at its minimum speed (or a speed lower than, less than, or less than the maximum speed in any case), the travel speed given to the web by the feed roller is less than the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. This causes slippage, and the transport carousel (moving at high speed along the travel path) and the web (moving at a lower speed along the travel path) that remains attached to it slide (i.e., slip) relative to each other.

[0054] The rotation of the supply roller is synchronized (i.e., coincides) with the rotation of the transport carousel, the gluing roller, and the cutting roller (in other words, the control unit is programmed to adjust the rotations) so that the supply roller has its maximum speed during the gluing and cutting steps. The rotation of the supply roller is also synchronized (i.e., coincides) so that the supply roller has its minimum speed during a deceleration time interval after the label cutting step (and before the next label cutting step), preferably the deceleration time interval is time-positioned between the label cutting step and the gluing step in the next cycle. In addition, or alternatively, the deceleration time interval is time-positioned between the label gluing step and the label cutting step. In this regard, the speed of the supply roller may take a first minimum speed during a first deceleration time interval time-positioned between the label gluing step and the label cutting step, and a second minimum speed during a second deceleration time interval time-positioned between the label cutting step and the label gluing step in the subsequent work cycle. In this regard, the deceleration time interval includes a first deceleration time interval and a second deceleration time interval.

[0055] It should be noted that the term "minimum" includes both cases where the minimum is relative and cases where it is absolute (for example, the first minimum speed may be a relative minimum and the second minimum speed may be an absolute minimum, and vice versa).

[0056] Therefore, during the deceleration time interval, the supply roller causes slippage between the web positioned in contact with the periphery of the transport carousel and the transport carousel itself.

[0057] The rotation of the supply roller is synchronized (i.e., matched) with the rotation of the transport carousel so that, at the end of the deceleration time interval, when the supply roller speed reaches its maximum again, the web is positioned on the transport carousel and the portion of the web to be cut and / or glued is positioned in one of the recesses of the suction projection array (in other words, the control unit is programmed to adjust the rotation).

[0058] It should be noted that, operationally, the suction projection arrays are positioned along the perimeter of the transport carousel such that two consecutive suction projection arrays are spaced apart by an arc larger than the length of the label (the web pieces constituting the label have a predetermined length). Therefore, the slip caused by the reduction in the speed of the supply rollers relative to the transport carousel has the effect of creating a gap between the newly cut piece and the rest of the web (because while the web's speed is reduced, the cut piece continues to move together with the transport carousel). Furthermore, the slip caused by the reduction in the speed of the supply rollers relative to the transport carousel has the effect of precisely readjusting the position of the web relative to the next piece of web to be glued and cut, and as a result, this piece is aligned with the next suction projection array.

[0059] It should be noted that the gluing roller is configured to interact with the suction projection array to apply adhesive to the surface of the web at the leading and trailing extensions (without applying adhesive to the web portion interposed between the leading and trailing extensions, i.e., the web portion facing the recess of the suction projection). In other words, with each interaction between the gluing roller and the web coupled to one of the suction projections, adhesive is spread to two regions (i.e., a pair of regions) that are close to each other but separated by a gap along the direction of movement of the web, and these regions of the pair of regions correspond to the trailing portion of one piece and the leading portion of the next piece, and in practice, the cutting is performed after the step of gluing the web region interposed between the pair of two adhesive regions.

[0060] In one embodiment, the supply roller has its highest speed during the cutting and gluing steps, and its lowest speed during a deceleration time interval that is temporally located between the gluing step and the step of cutting the labels for the next cycle. Thus, during the cutting and gluing steps, the gluing roller is configured to move the web at a speed equal to the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. After the gluing step, i.e., after passing the gluing area (along the web's supply path), the supply roller is configured to move the web at a speed lower than the peripheral speed of the transport carousel during a deceleration time interval. During the deceleration time interval, the cut and glued labels move along the travel path at a speed equal to the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. During the deceleration time interval, the web is configured to slide (or glide) along the perimeter of the transport carousel such that the trailing region of the next label (i.e., the uncut label following the label that has just been cut and glued) is positioned at the next leading extension (following the leading extension where the cutting was just performed).

[0061] In this case, it should be noted that, preferably, the distance between the cutting area and the gluing area (i.e., the distance between the cutting roller and the gluing roller) is less than the length of the label. The gluing roller is configured to work in conjunction with the suction projection array on which the label is cut. Thus, the gluing roller is configured to apply adhesive to the trailing end region of the label that has just been cut and the leading end region of the next label. In this case, it should also be noted that the suction projection array may be symmetrical with respect to an axis passing through the center of the array and the axis of rotation of the transport carousel, i.e., the leading extension protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to the same extent as the trailing extension.

[0062] In one example, if the cutting area precedes the gluing area (i.e., the cutting roller precedes the gluing roller), the supply roller may have its highest speed during the cutting step and its lowest speed during a deceleration interval that is temporally located between the label cutting step and the step of gluing the cut label. Thus, during the cutting step, the supply roller is configured to move the web at a speed equal to the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. After the cutting step, i.e., after passing the cutting area (along the web's supply path), the supply roller is configured to move the web at a speed lower than the peripheral speed of the transport carousel during a deceleration interval. During the deceleration interval, the web is configured to slide along the perimeter of the transport carousel such that the trailing edge region of the next label (i.e., the uncut label following the label just cut) is positioned at the next leading extension (following the leading extension where the cutting just occurred). During the deceleration interval, the cut label moves at the same speed as the peripheral speed of the transport carousel, and as a result, the gluing roller interacts with the leading and trailing edges of the cut label, applying adhesive to them.

[0063] In this case, it should be noted that, preferably, the distance between the cutting area and the gluing area (i.e., the distance between the cutting roller and the gluing roller) is greater than the length of the label. The gluing roller works in conjunction with the leading extension of the suction projection array where the suction element and cutting are performed. It should also be noted that the trailing extension can operate in a recessed position relative to the leading extension, i.e., the trailing extension protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to a smaller extent than the leading extension. In practice, over time intervals, the web slides along the transport carousel, exposing the trailing extension, and the fact that the trailing extension is recessed relative to the leading extension prevents the projection array from being contaminated with adhesive when it interacts with the gluing roller.

[0064] It should be noted that for each suction projection, the leading and trailing extensions are suction extensions. For example, the leading and trailing extensions are provided with suction ducts connected to a compressor or vacuum source.

[0065] In one embodiment, each suction projection is configured to create a suction effect within the recess. This suction effect in the region containing the recess has the function of applying tension to the portion of the web that is positioned in the recess. Applying tension to the web in the region where the web is to be cut has the advantage of improving the quality of the cut, particularly in a simple embodiment. Alternative solutions for obtaining a tension effect on the portion of the web facing the recess are also conceivable. For example, the two extensions of the suction projection may move back and forth along the movement path, both toward and away from each other.

[0066] In one embodiment, when each suction projection array of a plurality of suction projection arrays is composed of a gluing suction projection that interacts with a gluing roller and a cutting suction projection that interacts with a cutting roller, the supply roller is configured to cause a first sliding motion between the web and the transport carousel during a first deceleration time interval and a second sliding motion between the web and the transport carousel during a second deceleration time interval, so that at the end of the second deceleration time interval the web is positioned on the transport carousel and the portion of the web to be cut is located in the recess of the cutting suction projection.

[0067] In one embodiment, the cutting roller and the gluing roller are positioned at an angular distance of 10° to 30°, more specifically substantially 20°, where the angular distance is between the radius connecting the first and second rotation axes and the radius connecting the first and third rotation axes. The distance between the cutting roller and the gluing roller may be such that the leading and trailing extensions of the suction projection are completely covered by the web when the suction projection is in the gluing area (in other words, when the suction projection interacts with the gluing roller).

[0068] For example, the supply roller is configured to vary its speed throughout the work cycle. For instance, the supply roller's speed is synchronized so that it has a minimum speed in the time interval between the phase in which the supply roller glues the labels and the subsequent phase in which it cuts the labels. The supply speed is synchronized so that it has a maximum speed (preferably equal to the transport roller's speed) in the time interval between the step in which the supply roller cuts the labels and the step in which it glues the labels. The function of the deceleration time interval is to allow the web to slide against the transport carousel so that the web is positioned in the recess.

[0069] In this case, the smaller the distance between the cutting roller and the gluing roller (e.g., 20°), the smaller the time interval at which the tape feed speed is minimized. Having the shortest possible feed speed interval is particularly advantageous, for example, to ensure an appropriate label production speed.

[0070] In one example, the diameter of the gluing roller is between Φ160 and Φ110, and more specifically, the diameter of the gluing roller is basically Φ120. By reducing the diameter of the gluing roller, it becomes possible to bring the cutting roller and the gluing roller closer together.

[0071] In one embodiment, the cutting roller extends along a second axis between a first and second end. The cutting roller may include a moving system configured to move the cutting roller around the second axis, more specifically, to move the knife around the second axis. The gluing roller extends along a third axis between a first and second end and includes a moving system for moving it around the third axis. The first end of the cutting roller and the first end of the gluing roller lie in the same half-plane that cuts the transport carousel perpendicular to the first axis of the transport carousel. The moving systems for the cutting roller and the gluing roller may be located at the same end (e.g., both at the first or second end) or at opposite ends (e.g., one system at the first end and the other at the second end, or vice versa).

[0072] By positioning the moving system at opposing ends, the cutting roller and the gluing roller can be brought closer together. This disclosure also provides a labeling method.

[0073] This method includes the step of supplying a web (a web made from label material). Preferably, the web supply step is performed by a supply roller.

[0074] The method also includes a step of cutting the web in order to divide the web into web pieces that form labels. The cutting step is performed by a cutting roller to which at least one knife is attached. The cutting roller may rotate about a second axis.

[0075] The method also includes a gluing step, i.e., a step of applying adhesive to the surface of the web. The gluing step is preferably performed by a gluing roller. The gluing roller may rotate about a third axis.

[0076] This method also includes the step of navigating the web along a travel path.

[0077] This movement is performed by a transport carousel. The transport carousel can rotate around a first axis. In particular, the second and third axes are parallel to the first axis. The gluing rollers and the transport carousel can rotate in opposite directions.

[0078] The transport carousel receives the web (from the supply roller) in the loading area and keeps it attached as the web moves along the travel path.

[0079] The cutting step is performed during the step of moving the web along the travel path. More specifically, the transport carousel interacts with the cutting rollers in the cutting region. The cutting region is located downstream of the loading region with respect to the web's travel path.

[0080] The transport carousel carries the pieces cut from the web to the unloading area. Therefore, the transport path has a first stretch where the web is not cut (upstream of the cutting area) and a second stretch where the labels are present (downstream of the cutting area).

[0081] The gluing step is performed during the step of moving the web along the travel path. More specifically, the transport carousel interacts with the gluing rollers in the gluing area. The gluing area (as well as the cutting area) is located downstream of the loading area. The gluing and cutting areas are located upstream of the unloading area. Therefore, the gluing and cutting areas are angularly interposed between the loading and unloading areas with respect to the web's travel path.

[0082] The gluing area may be located before or after the cutting area in relation to the web's movement path.

[0083] In the unloading area, the labels are transported to the labeling machine (or central carousel). For example, the labeling machine includes a labeling carousel, and the labels are transported directly to the labeling carousel, i.e., to the bottles transported by the labeling carousel. Alternatively, in the unloading area, the labels may be fed out directly or transported to an additional transport carousel.

[0084] In one embodiment, the transport carousel includes a plurality of suction projection arrays angularly dispersed along the periphery of the transport carousel. In the (first) embodiment, each suction projection array may consist of one suction projection (i.e., a single suction projection), or in the (second) embodiment, it may consist of a pair of suction projections (i.e., one gluing suction projection and one cutting suction projection).

[0085] It is emphasized that the concepts described herein with respect to the first and second embodiments of the apparatus also apply to methods.

[0086] Each suction projection in the suction projection array may be provided with a corresponding recess.

[0087] In this case, as the web moves along its migration path, the web (or each piece of the web) remains attached to one or more suction projection arrays (from the loading area to the unloading area).

[0088] This method includes synchronizing the moving step (on a transport carousel) with the cutting step. Preferably, this method includes synchronizing the moving step, the cutting step, and the feeding step. More preferably, this method includes synchronizing the moving step, the cutting step, the feeding step, and the gluing step.

[0089] In this regard, the rotation of the cutting roller and the rotation of the transport carousel are synchronized so that at least one knife of the cutting roller is periodically inserted into a recess of the suction projection array to cut the web.

[0090] The rotation of the gluing roller and the rotation of the transport carousel are synchronized so that the gluing roller applies adhesive to the surface of the web, which is positioned on the suction projection array of the transport carousel.

[0091] The method may include the step of supplying adhesive to a gluing roller via an adhesive container. It may also include the step of adjusting the distribution of adhesive on the outer surface of the gluing roller (i.e., the level of adhesive) via a scraper. The scraper is mounted so as to follow the adhesive container in the direction of rotation of the gluing roller.

[0092] The gluing roller may also have a number of ridges and / or grooves on its outer surface to define a jagged surface.

[0093] In one embodiment, preferably at least during the gluing step, the subsequent extension is recessed relative to the leading extension so that the gluing roller interacts with the leading extension to apply adhesive to the surface of the web positioned in the leading extension.

[0094] For example, each suction projection array may have an asymmetrical shape with respect to a central axis such that the trailing extension protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to a smaller extent than the leading extension. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the trailing extension may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position, in which case it protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel to a smaller extent than the leading extension.

[0095] In one embodiment, the transport carousel rotates at a constant angular velocity. The peripheral velocity of the transport carousel is also constant.

[0096] Preferably, during the work cycle, the gluing roller applies adhesive and the cutting roller cuts the label from the web. Therefore, during the work cycle, the transport carousel can rotate at a constant angular velocity, and as a result, the peripheral velocity of the transport carousel is constant.

[0097] The feed roller can change its rotational speed, for example, during a work cycle, between a maximum and minimum value where the speed it imparts to the web is equal to the peripheral speed of the transport carousel. Thus, the feed roller's speed changes periodically according to a predetermined curve, which defines the period corresponding to (i.e., depending on) the work cycle of the device. The period (time interval) of the feed roller's speed includes a synchronous phase (i.e., synchronous time interval) where the rotational speed is at its maximum value and a deceleration phase (i.e., deceleration time interval) where the feed roller's rotational speed is below the maximum value. Thus, the minimum value of the feed roller's rotational speed is adopted during the deceleration time interval. During the deceleration time interval, the feed roller causes slippage between the web, which is positioned in contact with the transport carousel, and the transport carousel itself. At the end of the deceleration time interval (in the synchronous time interval), the web is positioned on the transport carousel, the portion of the web to be cut is located in one of the recesses of the suction projection array, and the web resumes movement in sync with the movement of the transport carousel.

[0098] In one embodiment, the rotations of the gluing roller, cutting roller, and transport carousel are synchronized so that the supply roller reaches its maximum speed during the gluing and cutting steps. In another embodiment, the rotations of the gluing roller, cutting roller, and transport carousel are synchronized so that the deceleration time interval is time-sequentially placed between the label cutting step and the next label gluing step. In this case, preferably, each suction projection array consists of one (single) suction projection that interacts with the gluing roller in the adhesive application step and with the cutting roller in the cutting step.

[0099] In another example, the rotation of the gluing roller, the cutting roller, and the transport carousel are synchronized such that the deceleration time interval includes a first deceleration time interval that is temporally located between the gluing step and the label cutting step, and a second deceleration time interval that is temporally located between the label cutting step and the label gluing step of the subsequent cycle. In this case, preferably, each suction projection array consists of a gluing suction projection that interacts with the gluing roller in the adhesive application step and a cutting suction projection that interacts with the cutting roller in the cutting step. During the first deceleration time interval, the supply roller causes a first sliding motion between the transport carousel and the web positioned in contact with the transport carousel. At the end of the first deceleration time interval (in the synchronized time interval), the web is positioned on the transport carousel, with the portion of the web to be cut located in one of the recesses of the suction projection array, and the web resumes movement in synchronization with the movement of the transport carousel in the cutting step. During the second deceleration time interval, the supply roller causes a second sliding motion between the transport carousel and the web. At the end of the second deceleration time interval (in the synchronous time interval), the web is positioned on the transport carousel, with the portion of the web to be glued positioned in one of the recesses of the suction projection array, and the web resumes movement in synchronous with the movement of the transport carousel during the gluing step.

[0100] Preferably, in each work cycle, the gluing step precedes the cutting step, and in all cases, the cutting step and the gluing step are performed within a synchronous time interval (within the range of the period in which the feed roller speed changes).

[0101] In one example, however, in each work cycle, the gluing step precedes the cutting step.

[0102] In one embodiment, the gluing roller interacts with an array of suction protrusions to apply adhesive to the surface of the web positioned at the leading and trailing extensions. In this case, the feed roller has its highest speed during the cutting and gluing steps and its lowest speed during a deceleration interval that is temporally located between the gluing step and the label cutting step in the next cycle (i.e., after the cutting step and before the label cutting step in the next cycle).

[0103] It should be noted that if gluing occurs after cutting and at a relatively large distance, the deceleration time interval is temporally located between the step of cutting the label and the step of cutting the next label, and if gluing occurs after cutting and at a relatively short distance, the deceleration time interval is temporally located between the step of gluing the label and the step of gluing the label in the next cycle.

[0104] In one embodiment, the method includes a step of generating negative pressure in the recess, for example by drawing air into the recess, thereby applying tension to the portion of the web placed in the recess during the cutting step. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0105] These and other features will become more apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments shown in the attached drawings as non-limiting examples. [Figure 1A-1D] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of Apparatus 1. [Figure 2A-2D] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of Apparatus 1. [Figure 3] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure show a cutting roller 13 interacting with a transfer carousel 14. [Figure 4] One or more aspects of this disclosure show a gluing roller 12 that interacts with a transport carousel 14. [Figure 5A] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of Apparatus 1. [Figure 5B] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of Apparatus 1. [Figure 6A-6C] This shows a portion of the gluing roller 12 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figures 7A-7D] The following shows an operation sequence of Apparatus 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of an attraction projection array 140. [Figure 8B] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of an attraction projection array 140. [Figures 9A-9E] The following shows an operation sequence of Apparatus 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A-10D] The following shows an operation sequence of Apparatus 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] The graph shows the rotational speed of the supply roller 11 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] The graph shows the rotational speed of the supply roller 11 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A-12C] The present disclosure shows one or more embodiments of Apparatus 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0106] The number 1 in the drawing indicates a labeling device. Device 1 comprises a supply roller 11, a gluing roller 12, a cutting roller 13, and a transfer carousel 14. Each of the supply roller 11, gluing roller 12, cutting roller 13, and transfer carousel 14 rotates around its respective axis of rotation. In particular, the transfer carousel 14 is configured to rotate around a first axis of rotation X1, the cutting roller 13 is configured to rotate around a second axis of rotation X2 parallel to the first axis of rotation X1, and the gluing roller 12 is configured to rotate around a third axis of rotation X3 parallel to the first axis of rotation X1.

[0107] The apparatus 1 also comprises a first roll 15A and a second roll 15B, each roll consisting of a web 2 of label material wound on a reel. The apparatus 1 includes a film buffer (or rocker arm) 16 configured to receive the web 2 unwound from either the first roll 15A or the second roll 15B. Preferably, the film buffer 16 receives the web 2 unwound from the first roll 15A while the second roll 15B remains in standby, or vice versa, i.e., the film buffer 16 receives the web 2 unwound from the second roll 15B while the first roll 15B remains in standby. The function of the film buffer 16 is to maintain constant tension in the web 2. The apparatus 1 includes a web guide 17 configured to receive the tensed web 2 from the film buffer 16 and orient and align the web 2 so that it is fed to a feed roller 11.

[0108] The supply roller 11 receives the web from the web guide 17 in the loading area C and supplies the web 2 to the transport carousel 14.

[0109] The gluing roller 12 is configured to interact with the transport carousel 14 in the gluing area I to apply adhesive to the surface of the web 2.

[0110] Apparatus 1 may include an adhesive container 121 configured to supply adhesive to a gluing roller 12. Apparatus 1 may also include a scraper 122 mounted following the adhesive container 121 in the direction of rotation of the gluing roller 12 and configured to adjust the distribution of adhesive (i.e., adhesive level) on the outer surface 120 of the gluing roller 12.

[0111] The gluing roller 12 may also have a plurality of ridges and / or grooves on its outer surface 120 that define a jagged surface, or alternating grooves and ridges that define a predetermined pattern. For example, each ridge may define a parallelepiped protruding from the outer surface of the gluing roller 12. Each parallelepiped has a first face and a second face continuous with the first face, and may define a pair of first faces L1 and a pair of second faces L2. Preferably, faces L1 and L2 are of the same length.

[0112] The cutting roller 13 includes a knife 130 configured to interact with the transport carousel 14 to cut the web 2 in the cutting region T, dividing it into pieces that make up the label 20.

[0113] Therefore, the transport carousel 14 receives the web 2 from the supply roller 11 in the loading region C, then interacts with the gluing roller 12 in the gluing region I to apply adhesive to the web 2, and interacts with the cutting roller 13 in the cutting region T to divide the web 2 into labels 20.

[0114] In the loading region, the transport carousel 14 may also receive the web 2 from the supply roller 11, which interacts with the cutting roller 13 in the cutting region T to divide the web 2 into labels 20, and then interacts with the gluing roller 12 in the gluing region I to apply adhesive to the labels 20.

[0115] Apparatus 1 comprises a central carousel 18 that rotates about its own axis, an infeed station 18A for a plurality of bottles 21 to be labeled, and an outfeed station 18B for the plurality of bottles 21 after they have been labeled. The central carousel 18 is configured to receive the plurality of bottles 21 from the infeed station 18A. A transport carousel 14 also interacts with the central carousel 18 in the unloading area S to bring the cut labels 20 into contact with the corresponding bottles 21. The central carousel 18 is also configured to transport the plurality of labeled bottles 21 to the outfeed station 18B.

[0116] Therefore, inside the apparatus, the web 2 moves along the movement path, passing through the loading area C, the gluing area I, and the cutting area T, where it is cut into labels 20, which are then attached to the bottle 21 in the unloading area S. Note that the cutting area T may also come before the gluing area.

[0117] Generally, the unloading area S of the transfer carousel defines the point at which the labels are transferred to the central carousel 18 for attaching the labels to the bottles 21, or the point at which the labels are sent directly out of the device 1 or transferred to an additional carousel (e.g., an additional transfer carousel).

[0118] For example, the apparatus 1 may include an additional transport carousel interposed between the transport carousel 14 and the central carousel 18 along the movement path of the web 2 or label 20. The transport carousel 14 may be configured to interact with the additional transport carousel in order to transport the cut labels to the additional transport carousel. The additional transport carousel may be configured to interact with the central carousel 18 to bring the cut labels 20 into contact with the corresponding bottles 21.

[0119] More specifically, the transport carousel 14 includes a plurality of suction projection arrays 140. The suction projection arrays 140 are arranged angularly dispersed around the transport carousel 14. Each suction projection in the suction projection array 140 comprises a recess 140R, a leading extension 140T, and a trailing extension 140C. The recess 140R is interposed between the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C and is oriented radially, with the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C projecting radially from the periphery of the transport carousel 14 so as to be away from the axis of rotation of the transport carousel 14. With respect to the rotational direction of the transport carousel 14, the leading extension 140T is positioned in front of the trailing extension 140C. Each suction projection 140 is provided with a leading extension 140T and a trailing extension 140C, both connected to a compressor or vacuum source to generate suction, which keeps the web 2 (and individual labels 20) attached to the perimeter of the transport carousel along part of its path. More specifically, the suction keeps the web attached to the suction projection array 140. The rotation of the transport carousel 14, the rotation of the gluing roller 12, and the rotation of the cutting roller 13 are synchronized so that each suction projection array 40 performs three functions. The first function is to keep the web 2 attached to the transport carousel 14 through the suction duct. The second function is to work in conjunction with the gluing roller 12 during the gluing step to apply adhesive to the area of ​​the web 2 that is in contact with the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C. More specifically, the leading extension 140T applies adhesive to the trailing end region 20B of the label 20, and the trailing extension 140C applies adhesive to the leading end region 20A of the label 20 that follows in the supply direction of the web 2 on the transport carousel. A third function is that, in the cutting step, in conjunction with the cutting roller 13, the knife 130 of the cutting roller 13 is inserted into the recess 140R of the suction projection 140 to divide the web 2 into labels 20. More specifically, the knife 130 separates the trailing end region 20B of the label 20 from the leading end region 20A of the label 20 by cutting the web 2 in a separation region 20S between the trailing end region 20B and the leading end region 20A of the label 20 that follows.

[0120] In one example, each suction projection array 140 works in conjunction with the gluing roller 12 in the gluing step so that adhesive is applied to the label area 20 located at the leading extension 140T of the suction projection array (according to an alternative second function). In this case, the cutting area T preferably comes before the gluing area I. In one example, if cutting precedes gluing, the gluing roller 12 applies adhesive to the leading extension 140T and suction element 141 of the suction projection array 140.

[0121] In the first embodiment, each suction projection array 140 consists of a single suction projection 140 (divided into two extensions with a recess between them) configured to interact with both the gluing roller 12 and the cutting roller 13, so that the suction projection 140 performs both the gluing (second) function and the cutting (third) function.

[0122] In the second embodiment, each suction projection array 140 is composed of a pair of suction projections 140 (each of which is divided into two extensions with a recess in between), specifically consisting of a gluing suction projection 140' and a cutting suction projection 140''. The gluing suction projection 140' is configured to interact with the gluing roller 12 in the gluing step, thus performing the gluing (second) function. The cutting suction projection 140'' is configured to interact with the cutting roller 13 in the cutting step, thus performing the cutting (third) function.

[0123] Unless otherwise specified, this disclosure applies to both the first and second embodiments.

[0124] Therefore, the apparatus 1 periodically performs the steps of gluing the web 2 and cutting the web 2 into labels 20. Alternatively, the apparatus performs the steps of cutting the web 2 into labels 20 and gluing the labels 20.

[0125] The transport carousel 14 also comprises a plurality of suction elements 141 arranged at an angular dispersion around the transport carousel 14. The suction elements 141 are spaced apart from each other and also spaced apart from the suction projection array 140. The suction elements 141 protrude less from the transport carousel 14 than the suction projection array 140 protrudes. In particular, in one example, the suction elements 141 protrude less from the transport carousel 14 than a single suction projection 140. In another embodiment, the suction elements 141 protrude less from the transport carousel 14 than a pair of suction projections, or less than the gluing suction projections 140' and / or cutting suction projections 140''. In particular, if gluing is performed before cutting, the suction elements 141 protrude less. If gluing is performed after cutting, at a distance between T and I less than the length of the label, the suction elements 141 protrude less. If gluing is performed after cutting, the suction element 141 will protrude to the same extent as the leading extension 140T, separated by a distance between T and I that is greater than the length of the label.

[0126] The suction element 141 is also provided with a suction duct connected to a compressor or vacuum source to create a suction effect that keeps the web 2 (and individual labels 20) attached to the suction element 141 during transport along the transport path.

[0127] More specifically, the suction projection array 140 is spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the transport carousel 14, which covers an arc of length L. Each label 20 is characterized by a length l, and as a result, each suction element 141 is spaced (in the rotational direction of the transport carousel 14) apart from the subsequent suction projection array 140 by a distance l equal to the length of the label 20. Thus, once the step of cutting the label 20 is complete, the rear end region 20B of the label 20 is held on the transport carousel 14 by the suction of the leading extension 140T of the suction projection 140 that was cut, while the front end region 20A of the label 20 is held on the transport carousel 14 by the suction element 141 located ahead of the suction projection 140 that was cut (in the rotational direction of the transport carousel 14).

[0128] The suction element 141 also has a function of transferring the leading end region 20A of the label 20 cut from the web 2 to the bottle 21 (placing it on the bottle 21) (or a function of conveying the leading end region 20A of the cut label out of the apparatus 1, or transferring it to an additional transfer carousel).

[0129] More specifically, the length l of the label 20 satisfies l<L, such that each suction element 141 is spaced from the next suction projection array 140 by an arc of length L-l=dl.

[0130] During a working cycle including the step of applying adhesive and the step of cutting the label, the transfer carousel 14 rotates at a constant angular velocity, as a result of which the peripheral velocity V of the transfer carousel t is constant, but the feed roller changes its velocity V a to a value V a =V a min and the velocity of the feed roller changes between this value and the maximum velocity at which the feed roller velocity takes the value V a =V a max. More specifically, the maximum velocity of the feed roller is V a max=V t , and the minimum velocity of the feed roller is V a min<V t .

[0131] Accordingly, when the velocity V of the feed roller 11 a is equal to V a max, the feed roller 11 imparts to the web 2 a moving velocity equal to the velocity V of the transfer carousel 14 t .

[0132] Next, the feed roller 11 decelerates to V a min, then accelerates and returns to V a max again. The time from when it reaches V a max, travels at V a max, decelerates to V a min, and then until it reaches V a max again is the cycle period T cIt is called V. a Decelerate to min, V a It travels at a speed of min, V a Accelerate to max and then V again a The time it takes to reach the maximum is the deceleration time interval T. dec It is called the deceleration time interval T. dec Now, the rotational speed V of the supply roller 11 a The rotation speed V of the transport carousel is always t Smaller than (in other words, it is V) a min <= V a <V a This is the time interval at which the maximum occurs. More specifically, the deceleration time interval T dec In this configuration, web 2 slides around the transport carousel 14.

[0133] Therefore, the gluing and cutting steps are performed when the supply roller 11 is at its maximum speed.

[0134] Therefore, in the first embodiment, where the suction projection array 140 consists of only one (i.e., a single) suction projection 140, and in the second embodiment, where the suction projection array 140 consists of a gluing suction projection 140' and a cutting suction projection 140'', the velocity V a These can be changed in the first mode and the second mode, respectively.

[0135] In the first mode (as simply shown as an example in Figure 11A), after the cutting step, there is a deceleration time interval T. dec In this process, the supply roller 11 slows down, while the cut labels 20 are transported along the movement path at the speed V of the carousel. t The process continues. Meanwhile, the uncut web 2 slides, and the web 2 is repositioned so that the separation region 20S (i.e., the region between the trailing end region 20B of the next label 20 to be cut and the leading end region 20A of the next label 20) is located in the recess 140R of the suction projection 140 following the suction projection 140 where the cutting was performed. More specifically, the deceleration time interval T is required for the web to cover a distance dl. decIt is necessary.

[0136] In the second mode (as simply shown as an example in Figure 11B), after the gluing step, which is performed when the gluing suction projection 140' contacts the gluing roller 12 with the gluing suction projection 140', the supply roller 11 undergoes a first deceleration time interval T dec During 1, the first minimum speed V a The speed is reduced to min1. The reduction of the supply roller 11 relative to the transport carousel 14 causes the web 2 to slip first relative to the transport carousel 14, and the adhesive-coated portion of the web is positioned on the cutting suction projection 140'' (specifically, the separation region 140S of the label is positioned on the recess 140R of the cutting suction projection 140''). The supply roller 11 then moves at a speed equal to the speed of the transport carousel 14 during the cutting step. a Return to maximum speed. After the cutting step, the supply roller 11 decelerates to the second deceleration time interval T. dec During the second period, the second lowest speed V a The speed is reduced to min2. During this step, the newly cut label 20 moves with the transport carousel 14, and the rest of the web 2 slides so that the separation region 20S (i.e., the region between the trailing end region 20B of the next label 20 to be cut and the leading end region 20A of the next label 20) is positioned in the recess 140R of the suction projection 140' for gluing.

[0137] Therefore, in the operation sequence of the apparatus 1, first, the supply roller 11 supplies the web 2 in a continuous form to the transport carousel 14 in the loading area C. The web 2 is transported by the transport carousel 14 to the gluing area I, where the gluing roller 12 applies adhesive to the web 2 at the rear end area 20B of the label 20 and the subsequent front end area 20A of the label 20. In the gluing step, in particular, the rear end area 20B of the label 20 comes into contact with the leading extension 140T of the suction projection 140, and the front end area 20A comes into contact with the trailing extension 140C of the suction projection 140. The web 2 then moves with the transport carousel 14 to the cutting area, where the cutting roller 13 is synchronized so that the knife 130 is inserted into the recess 140R of the suction projection 140 between the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C to separate the label 20. Specifically, the trailing portion 20B of the label 20 is separated from the subsequent leading portion 20A of the label (and is then cut in the separation portion 20S). The label 20 separated from the web 2 moves with the transport carousel 14 to the unloading portion S, where it is attached to the bottle 21. More specifically, from the cutting portion to the unloading portion S, the trailing portion 20B of the label 20 is held around the transport carousel 14 by the suction of the leading extension 140T, while the leading portion 20A of the label is held around the suction element 141 located in front of the suction projection 140 that has just been cut.

[0138] In particular, during the gluing and cutting steps, the speed V of the supply roller a It is always its highest value V a It will be maintained at the maximum value.

[0139] In the first mode, the supply roller 11 moves immediately after the cutting step, V a The speed of the feed roller V is reduced to min. The web 2 slides around the transport carousel 14 so that the trailing end region 20B of the label 20 following the recently cut label and the leading end region 20A of the next label 20 are positioned on the suction projection 140 following the suction projection 140 from which the cutting was performed (thus positioned in the recess 140R with the separation region 20S). Simultaneously with the rearrangement, the speed of the feed roller Va The top speed is once again V a The maximum speed is reached, and the next cycle begins. Therefore, in each cycle, the speed Va of the supply roller is at its maximum speed and the speed V of the transfer carousel 14 is at its maximum speed. t A first step F1 includes the steps of gluing and cutting, and the speed of the supply roller is equal to V a max to V a The deceleration time interval T includes a second step F2 which includes a rearrangement step which changes to min and vice versa. dec Note that the rear end region 20B of the label 20 and the leading end region 20A of the label following the label 20 are positioned on the suction projection 140, while the leading end region 20A of the label 20 is positioned on the suction element 141.

[0140] In the second mode, the supply roller 11 moves immediately after the gluing step, V a The speed is reduced to min1, and the web 2 slides around the transport carousel 14 so that the trailing end region 20B and trailing end region 20A of the label 20, which has just had adhesive applied, are positioned against the cutting suction projection 140'' following the gluing suction projection 140', which has just had adhesive applied (thus positioned in the recess 140R of the cutting suction projection 140'' with the separation region 20S). Simultaneously with the repositioning, the speed V of the feed roller is increased. a But the top speed V a It reaches max and cutting is performed. After the cutting step, the supply roller 11 immediately moves to V a The speed is reduced to min2, and the web 2 slides around the transport carousel 14, with the trailing end region 20B of the label 20 following the label that has just been cut, and the leading end region 20A of the next label 20, positioned on the gluing suction protrusion 140'' following the cutting suction protrusion 140'' where the cutting was just performed, and the next cycle begins. In the second mode, each cycle is performed at the feed roller speed V a This is the maximum speed and the speed V of the transport carousel 14. t A first step F11 includes a gluing step, which is equal to V, and the speed of the supply roller is V a max to V aA second step F12 includes a rearrangement step in which the speed of the supply roller changes to min1 and vice versa, and the speed of the supply roller V a This is the maximum speed and the speed V of the transport carousel 14. t The cycle then includes a third step F13 which includes a cutting step equal to V. a max to V a A fourth step F14 includes a rearrangement step, which changes to min2 and vice versa.

[0141] Generally speaking, V a min1 and V a min2 may be the same, or V a min1 is V a It can be greater than or less than min2.

[0142] Meanwhile, the central carousel 18 receives the bottles 21 to be labeled from the infeed station 18A.

[0143] The suction element 141 carries the leading edge region 20A of the label 20 to the unloading region S in order to affix the label 20 to the bottle 21 placed on the central carousel 18. Finally, the bottle 21 with the label attached is transported to the outfeed station 18B.

[0144] In embodiments where the cutting step precedes the gluing step (i.e., the cutting region T comes before the gluing region I), there are at least two possible approaches.

[0145] In the first approach, the steps are illustrated in Figures 9A-9E, where the cutting region T and the gluing region I are positioned at a distance greater than l (length of the label 20), preferably greater than L (arc length between two consecutive suction protrusions 140). In the second approach, the steps are illustrated in Figures 10A-10D, where the cutting region T and the gluing region I are positioned at a distance shorter than the length of the label and shorter than L. In both the first and second approaches, once the step of cutting the label 20 in the separation region 20S is complete, the trailing region 20B of the label 20 is held on the transport carousel 14 by the leading extension 140T of the suction protrusion 140 that was cut, while the leading region 20A of the label 20 is held on the transport carousel 14 by the suction element 141 that is in front of the suction protrusion 140 that was cut (in the rotational direction of the transport carousel 14).

[0146] Therefore, during the work cycle which includes the cutting step and the label gluing step, the transport carousel 14 rotates at a constant angular velocity, and as a result the peripheral velocity V of the transport carousel t The speed of the supply roller is constant, and the speed of the supply roller is V. a Within the work cycle, the supply roller is valued V a =V a Taking the minimum value V a min and the speed of the supply roller are value V a =V a It is varied between the maximum speed at which the max is taken. More specifically, the maximum speed of the supply roller is V a SET = V t It is like this, and the minimum speed of the supply roller is V a min <V t It's something like that.

[0147] Therefore, the speed V of the supply roller 11 a ga V a When the speed V of the carousel 14 is equal to max, the supply roller 11 transfers to the web 2. t Give it a movement speed equal to [a certain value].

[0148] Next, the feed roller 11 decelerates to V a min, then accelerates again to return to V a max. The time from reaching V a max, traveling at the speed of V a max, decelerating to V a min, and then reaching V a max again is referred to as a cycle period Tc. The time from decelerating to V a min, traveling at the speed of V a min, accelerating to V a max, and reaching V a max is referred to as deceleration time interval T dec , during which the rotational speed V of the feed roller 11 a is always less than the rotational speed V of the transfer carousel t (in other words, it is the time interval where V a min ≤ V a < V a max holds). More specifically, during the deceleration time interval T dec , the web 2 slides relative to the periphery of the transfer carousel 14.

[0149] In the first approach (that is, when the cutting area T and the gluing area I are spaced apart by a distance greater than the length of the label), the feed roller 11 has the maximum speed V a max in the cutting step, and has the minimum speed V dec during the deceleration time interval T a min that is temporally arranged between the cutting step and the step of gluing the label 20 in the same cycle (or between the step of cutting a label and the step of cutting the next label when the distance between T and I is greater than the length of the label).

[0150] In the first approach, the gluing roller 12 interacts with the suction element 141 (to apply adhesive to the leading end portion 20A of the label 20), and interacts with the suction projection array 140 to apply adhesive to the trailing end portion 20B of the label 20 on the leading expansion portion 140T. Therefore, after the cutting step, the feed roller 11 has the minimum speed V aThe deceleration is reduced to min, and the cut label 20 is transferred to the peripheral speed V of the carousel 14. t It moves at a speed equal to , and the rest of web 2 moves at a peripheral speed V t The deceleration time interval T is reduced to less than 20S, and the separation region 20S slides itself into position so that it is positioned in the recess 140R of the next suction projection 140 after the suction projection 140 that was cut. dec Then, the leading edge region 20A of the next label 20 to be cut (which is not yet glued) is positioned on the next suction element 141 of the projection 140 that has been cut. In the first approach, the deceleration time interval T dec During this time, the cut label 20 is at speed V t As it moves forward, the gluing roller 12 interacts with the tip region 20A located on the suction element 141 and then with the rear end region 20B located on the leading extension 140T of the suction projection array 140 that has been cut.

[0151] In the first approach, the trailing extension 140C can operate in a recessed position relative to the leading extension 140T. For example, each suction projection array 140 has an asymmetrical shape with respect to an axis passing through the center, and the trailing extension 140C protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel 14 to a smaller extent than the leading extension 140T. In this way, the gluing roller 12 does not interfere with the web portion located at the trailing extension 140C. In fact, during the deceleration time interval, the web slides on the transport carousel, exposing the trailing extension, and because the trailing extension is recessed relative to the leading extension, it is possible to prevent the projections from being contaminated with adhesive when the projection array interacts with the gluing roller. Alternatively, the subsequent extension section 140C is radially movable between an extended position (a position where it protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel 14 to the same extent as the leading extension section 140T) and a retracted position (a position where it protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel 14 to a lesser extent than the leading extension section 140T).

[0152] In the second approach (i.e., when the cutting area T and the gluing area I are located at a distance shorter than the length of the label), the feed roller 11 operates at a maximum speed V during the cutting and gluing steps. a A deceleration time interval T is set up in time between the gluing step and the cutting step of the label 20 in the next cycle, with a maximum value. dec At minimum speed V a In the second approach, the gluing roller 12 interacts with the suction projection array to apply adhesive to the area of ​​the label 20 located at the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C. Thus, after the cutting step, the supply roller 11 reaches a maximum speed V until the gluing step. a Maintain the maximum speed, and then the supply roller 11 will move to the minimum speed V. a The labels 20, which have been cut and glued, are decelerated to min and transported by the peripheral speed V of the carousel 14. t It moves at a speed equal to that, while the rest of web 2 moves at the peripheral speed V of the transport carousel 14. t The deceleration is reduced to less than the deceleration time interval T, and the separation region 20S (i.e., the region between the trailing end region 20B of the next label 20 to be cut and the leading end region 20A of the next label 20) slides itself into position so that it is located in the recess 140R of the next suction protrusion 140 after the suction protrusion 140 that was cut. In particular, if the suction element 141 is present, the deceleration time interval T dec Then, the leading edge region 20A of the next label 20 to be cut (which is already glued) is positioned on the next suction element 141 (which protrudes radially to a smaller extent than the suction projection 140) after the suction projection 140 that was cut.

[0153] Thus, in the operation sequence of device 1, first the supply roller 11 supplies the continuous web 2 to the transport carousel 14 in the loading area C.

[0154] When the cutting area T is before the gluing area I, in the first approach, the web 2 is transported from the transport carousel 14 to the cutting area T, where the cutting roller 13 is synchronized with the transport carousel 14 so that the knife 130 is inserted into the recess 140R of the suction projection 140 between the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C to separate the label 20, specifically separating the trailing end area 20B of the label 20 from the leading end area 20A of the label that follows (and then cutting it in the separation area 20S). During the cutting step, the speed of the feed roller 11 is maintained at its maximum. After the cutting step, the feed roller 11 is set to speed V a Slow down to min

[0155] The label 20 that has just been cut moves along the transport carousel 14, with its leading edge region 20A positioned on the suction element 141 that comes before the cut projection array 140, and its trailing edge region 20B positioned on the leading extension 140T of the cut projection array 140. The label 20 moves to the gluing region I, where the gluing roller 12 interacts with the suction element 141 to apply adhesive to the leading edge region 20A, and then interacts with the leading extension 140T of the cut projection array 140. Simultaneously, the web slides so that the leading edge region 20A of the label awaiting cutting is positioned on the suction element 141 following the cut projection array 140, while the trailing edge region 20B is positioned on the next projection array 140. After the repositioning is complete, the speed of the feed roller is V a The system returns to max, and the next cycle begins. The separated label 20 moves toward the unloading region S in the transport carousel 14 with its leading edge region 20A positioned on the suction element 141 and its trailing edge region 20B positioned on the leading extension portion 140T.

[0156] Thus, in the first approach, the speed V of the supply roller a This is the maximum speed and the speed V of the transport carousel 14. t A first step F1 includes a cutting step that is equal to V, and the speed of the supply roller is V a max to V aThere is a second step F2 which includes a rearrangement step, which is min and vice versa. In the first approach, the subsequent extension 140C may be permanently in a recessed position relative to the leading extension 140T, or it may be moved, for example by a cam, to a recessed position close to the gluing area I.

[0157] If the cutting region T comes before the gluing region I, in the second approach (where cutting precedes gluing and the distance between T and I is less than the length of the label), the web 2 is transported from the transport carousel 14 to the cutting region T, where the cutting roller 13 is synchronized with the transport carousel 14 so that the knife 130 is inserted into the recess 140R of the suction projection 140 between the leading extension 140T and the trailing extension 140C to separate the label 20, specifically, so that the trailing end region 20B of the label 20 is separated from the leading end region 20A of the label that follows (and so that it is then cut in the separation region 20S). The cut label 20 moves with the transport carousel 14, followed by the web 2, to the gluing region I, where the gluing roller 12 applies adhesive to the trailing end region 20B of the cut label 20 and the following leading end region 20A of the label 20 that has not yet been cut. In the gluing step, in particular, the trailing end region 20B of the cut label 20 comes into contact with the leading extension 140T of the suction projection 140, and the leading end region 20A of the next label 20 to be cut comes into contact with the trailing extension 140C of the suction projection 140. In the cutting and gluing step, the speed of the supply roller 11 is set to its maximum value V a It is kept constant at max. After the gluing step, the supply roller 11 is V a The speed is reduced to min, and the web 2 slides so that the (adhesive-coated) leading region 20A of the label 20, which has not yet been cut, is positioned on the suction element 141 following the cut and glued projection array 140, while the (not yet glued) trailing region 20B is positioned on the leading extension 140T of the next suction projection array 140. The speed of the feed roller is then V aThe system returns to max, and the next cycle begins. The separated label 20 moves toward the unloading region S in the transport carousel 14, with its leading edge region 20A positioned on the suction element 141 and its trailing edge region 20B positioned on the leading extension portion 140T.

[0158] Therefore, in the second approach, each cycle is controlled by the speed V of the supply roller. a This is the maximum speed and the speed V of the transport carousel 14. t A first step F1 includes a cutting and gluing step that is equal to V, and the speed of the supply roller is V a max to V a The system comprises a second step F2 which includes a step of rearranging to min and vice versa. More specifically, the deceleration time interval T dec Note that in between, the rear end region 20B of the label 20 and the leading end region 20A of the label following the label 20 are positioned on the suction projection 140, and the leading end region 20A of the label 20 is positioned on the suction element 141.

[0159] For completeness, it should be noted that embodiments may also exist in which each suction projection array 140 comprises a pair of suction projections 140 (each divided into two extensions, each having a recess between them), specifically a gluing suction projection 140' and a cutting suction projection 140''. The gluing suction projection 140' is configured to interact with the gluing roller 12 in the gluing step, and thus to perform the gluing (second) function. The cutting suction projection 140'' is configured to interact with the cutting roller 13 in the cutting step, and thus to perform the cutting (third) function. This embodiment is shown as an example in Figures 2B and 11B.

[0160] The cutting roller 13 extends along a second axis between its first and second ends and includes a moving system 132 configured to move the cutting roller 132 around the second axis X2, more specifically, to move the knife 131 around the second axis X2. The gluing roller 12 extends along a third axis X3 between its first and second ends and includes a moving system for moving it around the third axis X3. The first ends of the cutting roller 13 and the first end of the gluing roller 12 lie on the same half-plane that cuts the transport carousel 14 perpendicular to the first axis X1 of the transport carousel 14. The moving systems 132 of the cutting roller 13 and the moving systems of the gluing roller 12 can be located at the same end (e.g., both at the first or second end) or at opposite ends (e.g., one system at the first end and the other at the second end, or vice versa). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0161] [Patent Document 1] EP1871674B1 [Patent Document 2] EP2507135B1 [Patent Document 3] WO2019243203A1 [Patent Document 4] EP2067701B1 [Patent Document 5] EP2221154B1 [Patent Document 6] EP2279954B1 [Patent Document 7] DE102013215999A1 [Patent Document 8] EP3919397A1 [Patent Document 9] WO2021239626A1 [Patent Document 10] WO2021198072A1 [Patent Document 11] WO2022069415A1

Patent document 12

Patent document 13

Claims

1. Labeling device (1), - A supply roller (11) for supplying a web (2) made of label material, - A transfer carousel (14) that rotates around a first rotation axis (X1), and includes a plurality of suction projection arrays (140) that are angularly dispersed along the circumference of the transfer carousel (14) and have corresponding recesses (140R), - A cutting roller (13) that rotates around a second rotation axis (X2) parallel to the first rotation axis (X1), and is provided with a knife (130) for cutting the web (2) and dividing it into pieces that constitute the label (20), - A gluing roller (12) configured to rotate about a third rotation axis (X3) parallel to the first rotation axis (X1) and to apply adhesive to the surface of the web (2), wherein the gluing roller (12) and the transport carousel (14) are configured to rotate in opposite directions, - The transport carousel (14) is configured to receive the web (2) from the supply roller (11) in a loading area (C), keep the web (2) attached to one or more of the suction projection arrays (140), and transport the labels (20) to an unloading area (S) located at an angle from the loading area (C) along the movement path of the web (2), wherein the transport carousel (14) is configured to interact with the gluing roller (12) in a gluing area (I) and the cutting roller (13) in a cutting area (T), wherein the gluing area (I) and the cutting area (T) are angularly interposed between the loading area (C) and the unloading area (S), and the gluing area (I) continues to the cutting area (T) with respect to the movement path of the web (2), Labeling device (1), wherein the gluing roller (12) applies adhesive in cooperation with the suction projection array (140) of the transport carousel (14), and the knife (130) of the cutting roller (13) is periodically inserted into the recess (140R) of the suction projection array (140) to cut the web (2).

2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, further comprising an adhesive container (121) configured to supply adhesive to the adhesive roller (12).

3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 2, comprising a scraper (122), the scraper (122) extending from the adhesive container (121) in the direction of rotation of the adhesive roller (12) to adjust the spread of the adhesive on the outer surface (120) of the adhesive roller (12).

4. The labeling apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a control unit connected to the gluing roller (12) and the transport carousel (14) for synchronizing their respective rotations.

5. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gluing roller (12) includes an outer surface (120), the outer surface (120) having a plurality of ridges and / or grooves to define a jagged surface or to define alternating grooves and ridges.

6. Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each suction projection (140) includes a leading extension (140T) and a trailing extension (140C), the leading extension (140T) being positioned in front of the trailing extension (140C) in the rotational direction of the transport carousel, and the recess (140R) being interposed between the leading extension (140T) and the trailing extension (140C).

7. The apparatus (1) according to claim 6, wherein the subsequent extension (140C) is operable in a recessed position relative to the leading extension (140T) such that the gluing roller (12) interacts with the leading extension (140T) to apply adhesive to the surface of the web (2) positioned on the leading extension (140T).

8. The apparatus (1) according to claim 7, wherein each suction projection array (140) has an asymmetric shape with respect to an axis passing through the center such that the subsequent extension portion (140C) protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel (14) to the extent that it is smaller than the leading extension portion (140T).

9. The apparatus (1) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the subsequent extension portion (140C) is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and in the retracted position, it protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel (14) to a smaller extent than the leading extension portion (140T).

10. The gluing roller (12) is configured to interact with the suction projection array (140) to apply the adhesive to the surface of the web (2) located in the leading extension (140T) and the trailing extension (140C), and the supply roller (11) operates at a maximum speed (V) during the cutting and gluing steps. ａ The deceleration time interval (T) is located in time between the step of gluing and the step of cutting the label (20) in the next cycle, and has a maximum of (T). ｄｅｃ ) at the minimum speed (V ａ Apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, having min.

11. The apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the gluing roller is configured to interact with a suction element (141) to apply adhesive to the leading edge portion (20A) of the label (20) and to interact with a suction projection array (140) to apply adhesive to the rear end portion (20B) of the label (20) located at the leading extension portion (140T).

12. A labeling method, - A step of supplying a web (2) made of label material via a supply roller (11), - A step of providing a transport carousel (14) which rotates around a first rotation axis (X1), and which includes a plurality of suction projection arrays (140) that are angularly dispersed along the periphery of the transport carousel (14), and which is provided with corresponding recesses (140R), - A cutting roller (13) that rotates about a second axis of rotation (X2) parallel to the first axis of rotation (X1), and the cutting roller (13) is provided with at least one knife (130) for cutting the web (2), thereby dividing the web (2) into pieces constituting a label (20), - A gluing roller (12) that rotates about a third rotation axis (X3) parallel to the first rotation axis (X1), wherein the gluing roller (12) and the transport carousel (14) rotate in opposite directions, and the adhesive is applied to the surface of the web (2) via the gluing roller (12), Through the aforementioned transfer carousel (14), - A step of receiving the web (2) from the supply roller (11) in the loading area (C), - The steps include keeping the web (2) attached to one or more of the suction projection arrays (140), and moving the web (2) along the movement path to an unloading area (S) for unloading the label (20), which is located at an angular distance from the loading area (C) along the movement path of the web (2), The transport carousel (14) interacts with the cutting roller (13) in the cutting region (T) and with the gluing roller (12) in the gluing region (I), the gluing region (I) and the cutting region (T) are angularly interposed between the loading region (C) and the unloading region (S), and the gluing region (I) continues to the cutting region (T) with respect to the movement path of the web (2). A labeling method in which the adhesive roller (12) applies adhesive in cooperation with the suction projection array (140) of the transport carousel (14), and the knife (130) of the cutting roller (13) is periodically inserted into the recess (140R) of the suction projection array (140) to cut the web (2).

13. - A step of supplying adhesive to the gluing roller (12) via the adhesive container (121), The labeling method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of adjusting the spread of the adhesive on the outer surface (120) of the adhesive roller (12) via a scraper (122) mounted so as to be continuous with the adhesive container (121) in the direction of rotation of the adhesive roller (12).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein each suction projection (140) includes a leading extension (140T) and a trailing extension (140C), the leading extension (140T) being positioned in front of the trailing extension (140C) in the rotational direction of the transport carousel, and the recess (140R) being interposed between the leading extension (140T) and the trailing extension (140C).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, in at least the gluing step, the subsequent extension (140C) is capable of acting in a recessed position relative to the leading extension (140T) such that the gluing roller (12) interacts with the leading extension (140T) to apply adhesive to the surface of the web (2) positioned on the leading extension (140T).

16. At least one of the following conditions is met, namely, - Each suction projection array (140) has an asymmetrical shape with respect to a central axis such that the subsequent extension portion (140C) protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel (14) to the extent that it is smaller than the leading extension portion (140T). The method according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the following is true: - The subsequent extension (140C) is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and in the retracted position, it protrudes radially from the periphery of the transport carousel (14) to a smaller extent than the leading extension (140T).

17. The gluing roller (12) interacts with the suction projection array (140) to apply adhesive to the surface of the web (2) positioned in the leading extension (140T) and the trailing extension (140C), and the supply roller (11) operates at a maximum speed (V) during the cutting and gluing steps. ａ The deceleration time interval (T) is located in time between the step of gluing and the step of cutting the label (20) in the next cycle, and has a maximum of (T). ｄｅｃ ) at the minimum speed (V ａ The method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the min)

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