Label application device and control program for label application device

Abstract

To achieve highly efficient production of products even if a printed label has a transient abnormality.SOLUTION: A label application device 1 includes: reading means 50 for reading a printing surface of a bell; determination means for determining the presence of an abnormality of a label on the basis of a reading result of the reading means; output means for outputting a determination result of the determination means if it is abnormal; and application means 60 for applying a label when an abnormality is output onto an object to be applied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Label inspection devices are known that issue labels and affix them to products, and determine whether the issued labels are good or bad. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4393497 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when the labeling device is part of a product production line together with other devices, stopping the production line every time an abnormality in a label is detected can result in a decrease in production efficiency.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a label application device that can efficiently produce products even if there is a temporary abnormality in the printed label. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a label application device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a reading means for reading the printed surface of a label, a determination means for determining whether or not there is an abnormality in the label based on the reading result of the reading means, an output means for outputting an abnormality if the determination result of the determination means is abnormal, and an application means for applying the label to an object when the abnormality is output. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of a label sticking device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of the label sticking device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a label printed by the labeling device, illustrating a scan area on the label that is read by a verification unit included in the labeling device. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a verification area on the label that is verified by a verification unit included in the labeling device. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of a process flow in which the labeling device determines whether a label is abnormal. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display device. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a screen displayed on the display device. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic partial enlarged view showing the periphery of a peeling plate of the label sticking device. [Figure 9] 1A is a schematic front view showing the label application device and a label cassette set in the application device, in which (a) is a schematic front view showing a state in which the cover of the label cassette is open, (b) is a schematic front view showing a state in which the label cassette is set in the application device, and (c) is a schematic front view showing a state in which the label cassette is set in the application device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic partial perspective view, seen from diagonally below, showing the state of the liner transport unit of the label application device, in which the liner transport unit is moving upstream in the label transport direction. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic partial perspective view, seen from diagonally below, showing the state of the liner transport unit of the label application device, in which the liner transport unit is moving downstream in the label transport direction. [Figure 12]10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing the state of the peeling plate and guide plate of the label application device, in which (a) is a diagram showing the state in which the peeling plate is advanced during printing, and (b) is a diagram showing the state in which the peeling plate is retracted during label cassette replacement. [Figure 13] 10 is a schematic partial perspective view showing a state in which a label detection sensor and its control panel of the label application device are rotated in a direction away from a thermal head. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 6 is a schematic partial enlarged view of a label sticking device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A label application device according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Overview of the labeling device (1) 1, the labeling device 1 is a device that prints, inspects, and applies labels to products, such as food products enclosed in plastic film or plastic cases, or other suitable items to which a label can be applied.

[0009] As shown in FIG. 1, the labeling device 1 mainly comprises a conveyor table 101, a display and operation unit 106, an upper label printing and pasting unit 2a, and a lower label printing and pasting unit 2b.

[0010] The transport table 101 is a table equipped with a transport mechanism such as a conveyor for transporting products. An arm 120 stands upright on the side of the transport table 101, and the upper label printing and pasting unit 2a is disposed above the transport mechanism on the arm 120 via a bracket.

[0011] The display and operation unit 106 is a device that allows an operator to input and output information to the label application device 1, and receives, for example, print information to be printed on the label 100L (see FIG. 3). The display and operation unit 106 is supported by an arm 120 that stands upright on the side of the conveyance table 101. The display and operation unit 106 is configured with main body keys 106b for input disposed below a display device 106a, but may also be a touch panel display in which the display device and input device are integrated.

[0012] The upper label printing and applying unit 2a is a mechanism that prints labels 100L and applies the printed labels 100L to the top surfaces of products placed on the conveying table 101. The lower label printing and applying unit 2b is housed below the conveying table 101, prints labels 100L, and applies the printed labels 100L to the bottom surfaces of products placed on the conveying table 101. Since the upper label printing and applying unit 2a and the lower label printing and applying unit 2b have substantially the same configuration, the following description will focus on the upper label printing and applying unit 2a, and a description of the lower label printing and applying unit 2b will be omitted.

[0013] The upper label printing and applying unit 2a has a label supply unit 102, a feed unit 103, a printing unit 40, a reading unit 50, and an applying unit 60. The labels 100L are pulled out from a label roll 100R held in the label supply unit 102, transported through the feed unit 103, the printing unit 40, the reading unit 50, and the applying unit 60 in that order, and applied to the product. The label roll 100R is stored in a label cassette 200 (see FIG. 9) and set in the upper label printing and applying unit 2a, the configuration of which will be described later.

[0014] The label supply unit 102 is a mechanism that holds the label roll 100R so that it can be sent to the printing unit 40. The label roll 100R, wound in a roll, is rotatably set in the label supply unit 102. The label roll 100R is a roll of label paper 100, which is made by temporarily attaching labels 100L at regular intervals to a long, strip-shaped backing paper 100D. In other words, the backing paper 100D and the labels 100L make up the label paper 100. One side of the label 100L forms an adhesive surface with an adhesive material attached, and the other side forms a printing surface on which printing is performed, and the adhesive surface is removably adhered to the backing paper 100D.

[0015] The feed unit 103 is a roller that is driven to rotate by a motor, and pulls out the label paper 100 from the label roll 100R, and sends out the pulled-out backing paper 100D and label to the printing unit 40 via a predetermined transport path.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 8, the printing unit 40 is made up of a thermal head 41 and a platen roller 42 disposed in a position facing the thermal head 41.

[0017] The thermal head 41 prints on the label 100L on the label paper 100 fed by the driving rotation of the rollers and platen roller 42 that make up the feed unit 103. The thermal head 41 prints by selectively heating the heating elements. Printing is performed by moving the label paper 100 by one dot line at a time using the platen roller 42, based on data for one dot line supplied from a shift register. The label 100L is ejected from the gap between the thermal head 41 and the platen roller 42, adhered to the backing paper 100D. The thermal head 41 is an example of a printing means.

[0018] The platen roller 42 is disposed at a position facing the thermal head 41 and presses the label 100L toward the thermal head 41. A stepping motor 43 shown in FIG. 2 can be used as a drive unit for the platen roller 42 that moves the label roll 100R and the rollers that make up the feed unit 103.

[0019] The reading unit 50 has a label detection sensor 51 that appropriately detects the label 100L sent from the printing unit 40. The reading unit 50 is an example of a reading means. The label detection sensor 51 is, for example, a line sensor. The label detection sensor 51 can read information from a predetermined reading area that is close to or slightly separated from the end of the housing. In FIG. 5, the reading area is formed below the label detection sensor 51. The label detection sensor 51 reads the printed information printed on the label 100L in the reading area and transmits it to the CPU 31. Depending on the detection result of the label 100L, it may be determined whether the next label can be issued, and operations such as driving and stopping the printing unit 40 may be controlled.

[0020] After inspection by the reading unit 50, the label 100L is peeled off from the backing sheet 100D by a peeling plate 70 (see FIG. 8). The configuration of the peeling plate 70 will be described later.

[0021] The application unit 60 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 sucks and adheres the printed surface of the label 100L peeled from the backing sheet 100D, i.e., the surface read by the label detection sensor 51, and holds the label 100L. The adhered surface of the label is pressed against the product, thereby applying the label to the product. The product is an example of a label-receiving object. The application unit 60 is an example of application means. The application unit 60 includes an air cylinder 61, a support member that moves up and down by the driving force of the air cylinder 61, multiple rod-shaped label suction units 62 suspended from the support member, and a label holding surface 63 that sucks and holds the label 100L (see FIG. 8 for all of these). The case that houses the application unit 60 is equipped with an exhaust device, such as a fan, that sucks out air from inside the case. This generates negative pressure in holes in the label holding surface 63, causing the suction force to act. This suction force acts as an auxiliary suction force for suctioning and holding the printed label 100L on the lower surface of the label holding surface, in addition to the suction means provided in the label suction unit 62. Below the label holding surface 63, a label waiting section is provided where the peeled label 100L is discharged and where it waits. The label waiting section is a tray or platform-like member on which the label is placed. The upper surface of the label waiting section may be non-adhesive to prevent the peeled label 100L from adhering to it.

[0022] The label suction unit 62 may be a manipulator that can move, for example, back and forth and left and right in the conveyance direction. After suctioning the label 100L, the label suction unit 62 may transport it onto the conveyed object and affix it to the conveyed object.

[0023] As described above, the label detection sensor 51 is disposed between the thermal head 41 and the label adsorption unit 62 and label holding surface 63. This configuration allows the printed content of the label 100L to be inspected after printing and before affixing it to a product, enabling efficient production of products.

[0024] ●Control device configuration 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device 30 of the labeling device 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, the control device 30 of the labeling device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, a flash memory 32, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 33, a display / operation unit 106, and an interface circuit 35. The control device 30 is connected to a thermal head 41, a stepping motor 43, a label detection sensor 51, and an air cylinder 61 via the interface circuit 35.

[0025] The CPU 31 is a central processing unit that reads and executes programs stored in the flash memory 32 to control the overall operation of the label application device 1. The flash memory 32 is an auxiliary storage device for the CPU 31, and stores various types of information used by the CPU 31, including programs.

[0026] The RAM 33 is the main storage device of the CPU 31. The RAM 33 also serves as a work area for temporarily retrieving and processing data. The RAM 334 is backed up by a battery so that the files are retained even when the power is turned off.

[0027] The printing unit 40 is configured by connecting the CPU 31, etc. with a thermal head 41 and a stepping motor 43 via an interface circuit 35 of the control device 30. The reading unit 50 is configured by connecting the CPU 31, etc. with a label detection sensor 51 via the interface circuit 35. The affixing unit 60 is configured by connecting the CPU 31, etc. with an air cylinder 61 via the interface circuit 35. The control device 30 controls the printing unit 40, reading unit 50, and affixing unit 60 together, but a control device that controls the printing unit 40, reading unit 50, and affixing unit 60 individually may also be provided.

[0028] The printing unit 40 prints characters, figures, symbols, etc. on the label 100L based on the printing information set by the control device 30. When verifying the printing result, the printing information is stored in the RAM 33 as binary data, and serves as a printing standard and reference information for comparison with the printing result.

[0029] The reading unit 50 reads the characters printed on the label 100L using the label detection sensor 51, and generates a scanned image by performing image processing in the CPU 31, and generates scan information corresponding to the scanned image. ●Function block of labeling device In the label application device 1, at least the functional blocks of the memory unit, judgment unit, and output unit are configured by an arithmetic unit such as a CPU 31, a computer program executed by the CPU 31, internal memories such as RAM 33 and ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.

[0030] The memory unit stores the scanned image read by the label detection sensor 51, the binary data of the print result generated from the scanned image (information in which binary data is stored as numerical values), the results of comparing the print information with the scanned information (information such as match rate and bleed rate), and logs of this information (print date and time, printer number, product name and format name of the print target, etc.). The memory unit also includes a dot conversion unit that converts print data into dot data, a call format unit that calls and stores one piece of format data from a label format file, and a call product unit that calls and stores product data, etc. The memory unit also stores a label format file in which the print format for label printing is set, a product file (printing information) in which various product data for label printing is set, etc.

[0031] The determination unit is a functional unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the label 100L based on the result of reading by the reading unit 50.

[0032] In the labeling device 1, print information based on format data and product data is generated and stored in a storage unit as a preliminary step before printing. The storage unit stores multiple pieces of print information, each of which is given a title that represents the print information. For example, when generating the print information, the determination unit sets a scan area and a verification area (comparison range) on the print information for verifying the print results. FIGS. 3 and 4 show an example of a label 100L printed by the labeling device 1, illustrating the label 100L to be affixed to a "Picture Box Lunch Box." As shown in FIG. 3, multiple scan areas SA1 to SA4 are set on the label 100L. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, one or more verification areas VA1 to VA10 are set in each of the scan areas SA1 to SA4.

[0033] Scan areas SA1 to SA4 are the ranges used to acquire information for identifying label tilt and misalignment. The determination unit uses the amount of tilt and misalignment in scan areas SA1 to SA4 to calculate the conditions for overlaying the print result (image) and the printed information. More specifically, the determination unit calculates the amount of tilt and misalignment by comparing the print result with the printed information in the range set in scan areas SA1 to SA4, and performs corrections based on the calculated amount to ensure that the printed information and the print result are overlaid. Note that the amount of tilt and misalignment is not used to calculate the match rate, which will be described later. Even if the tilt is significant, if the comparison using the verification area shows no typographical errors, missing characters, or blurred characters, the match rate is 100%.

[0034] Verification areas VA1 to VA10 are areas where the print content within the range specified in the verification areas is compared, assuming that skew and misalignment corrections have been completed based on scan areas SA1 to SA4 and that the print information and print results overlap. The judgment unit calculates the match rate or bleed rate based on the amount of typos, missing parts, or blurring in verification areas VA1 to VA10.

[0035] The determination unit determines that there is an abnormality in the label 100L when the comparison result between the printed information and the scanned information, particularly, for example, the match rate or bleed rate, is below a predetermined threshold. The determination unit also determines whether there is an abnormality in the label 100L based on the label length read by the reading unit 50. Specifically, for example, the determination unit determines that there is an abnormality when the label length differs from the label length included in the printed information by a predetermined amount or more. Furthermore, the determination unit determines that there is an abnormality when the label 100L is not fed into the reading area of ​​the label detection sensor 51 at the predetermined timing.

[0036] Here, the labeling device 1 constitutes a production line in which other devices are arranged upstream or downstream of the device, and products are produced while being transported from upstream to downstream. The other devices that make up the production line include, for example, a packaging device, an X-ray inspection device, a metal inspection device, a discharge device, and a boxing device. While the production line is arranged in the following order, for example, packaging device, labeling device 1, X-ray inspection device, metal inspection device, discharge device, and boxing device, this is merely an example, and other devices may be included, or an arrangement may be such that some devices are not included. Furthermore, while at least the discharge device is arranged downstream of the labeling device 1, the arrangement order of the other devices is arbitrary.

[0037] In such a production line, various processes are performed continuously. Therefore, when a labeling device 1 is stopped, other devices in the production line to which the labeling device 1 belongs must also be stopped. However, stopping the entire production line reduces production efficiency per unit time. More specifically, the task of removing defective labels from the stopped labeling device 1 is required, and the production line must be stopped until the defective labels are removed. Here, we will explain why the task of removing defective labels is required. The labeling device 1 performs three main processes—label printing, inspection, and label application—sequentially along a single path, and continues to hold printed labels until they are applied to products. If a defective label is discovered, the label can be discarded by releasing the label retention, i.e., by stopping the label suction. However, stopping the suction can cause the label to stick to the conveying surface, potentially causing other problems, such as poor product transport, poor conveyor belt transport, or contamination of the belt surface. For the above reasons, if a label is determined to be defective during inspection, the defective label must be removed from the label application device in order to print and inspect the next label.

[0038] Therefore, the worker goes to the label application device 1 to remove the label that is being suction-held in the application unit. Because the worker is away from the automated production line and performing other tasks, such work increases the burden on the worker and reduces the production efficiency of the line. Therefore, if the judgment result of the label 100L is abnormal, the label application device 1 outputs a message to that effect, applies the label 100L that was output as abnormal to the product, and continues operating the production line. With this configuration, the abnormal label 100L does not remain in the label application device 1 but is discharged downstream on the production line. In other words, it is not necessary to stop the production line, and the man-hours required for the worker to go to the label application device 1 can be reduced.

[0039] When it is determined that there is an abnormality in the label 100L, the determination unit may determine whether the abnormality is one that requires the production line to be stopped. Specifically, for example, if the matching rate with the correct data obtained by the comparison process based on the scanned image is within a predetermined range that is lower than the threshold for a non-defective product (i.e., the matching rate is close to the threshold for a non-defective product), the determination unit determines that the abnormality does not require the production line to be stopped, and continues operation of the production line without stopping the label application device 1. As a result, the label 100L is applied to the product by the application unit 60. If the matching rate is lower than the predetermined range, the determination unit stops the label application device 1.

[0040] Anomalies that do not require the production line to be stopped are temporary anomalies that may be resolved by continuing to operate the production line. Temporary anomalies are, for example, an anomaly caused by dirt, dust, or fragments of label adhering to the label 100L or the thermal head 41. Another temporary anomaly is an anomaly caused by oil-based stains that adhere when an operator touches the thermal head 41. Such an anomaly causes partial bleeding or missing print, but may resolve naturally by printing several labels 100L without taking any special measures. Therefore, in the case of such an anomaly, production efficiency can be maintained by continuing to operate the production line.

[0041] When the determination unit determines that an abnormality does not require the production line to be stopped, the determination unit may store this determination result.The determination unit may determine that an abnormality that does not require the production line to be stopped is detected a predetermined number of times in succession, for example, three times in succession.With this configuration, it is sufficient to stop the production line only when a temporary abnormality does not improve naturally, thereby reducing the number of times the production line is stopped.

[0042] If the matching rate between the scanned image and the correct data is much lower than the threshold, there is a high probability that a problem has occurred with the thermal head, the printing path, the label, or the like, and that continuing to print will not resolve the problem. Therefore, if the matching rate is much lower than the threshold, the determination unit may stop the production line after a single determination. In this case, for example, if the matching rate is lower than the threshold, the determination unit refers to a second threshold that is lower than the threshold, and if the matching rate is lower than the second threshold, stops the label application device 1.

[0043] The output unit is a functional unit that outputs information to that effect (hereinafter also referred to as "abnormal information") when the judgment result of the judgment unit is abnormal. The output unit outputs the information to an external device connected to the label application device 1. The external device is, for example, a discharge device. The output unit may be configured to directly output the information to a downstream discharge device, or the output unit may output the information to a management device, and the management device may output the information to the discharge device. The management device is, for example, an upper server. The output unit also outputs information to an external device indicating that the label application device 1 is to be stopped. The external device is, for example, another device on the production line. The output unit may be configured to output the information directly to the other device, or the output unit may output the information to a management device, which then outputs the information to the other device. In this case, the other device on the production line will stop operating in response to the information.

[0044] The discharge device has a branch in the conveying path along which the products are transported, and guides non-defective products into the main stream while removing defective products from the main stream and diverting them from the main stream into a branch. The discharge device is located downstream of the labeling device 1 in the conveying direction. Products guided into the branch stream are discharged, for example, into a discharge reservoir provided on the side of the main stream. The discharge device has a sorting mechanism that sorts products transported from upstream into the main stream and the branch stream. The sorting mechanism is electrically controlled and sorts the transported products into the main stream and the branch stream based on commands from another device connected to the discharge device, for example, by wire or wirelessly. The end of the branch stream is a discharge reservoir that stores defective products.

[0045] The ejection device, for example, has a pre-defined process for excluding products from the main stream when it receives abnormality information from the output unit. The ejection device, for example, guides products conveyed a predetermined time after receiving the abnormality information to a branch stream. With this configuration, abnormal labels 100L that do not require the production line to be stopped can be collected in the branch stream together with the products to which they are affixed. In other words, even if the configuration is such that abnormal labels 100L are affixed to products, they can be reliably distinguished from non-defective products and managed.

[0046] The timing at which the labeling device 1 outputs the abnormality information and the timing at which the discharge device receives the abnormality information are almost the same, and the discharge device executes discharge control (operation) after a certain time has elapsed since receiving the abnormality information. This is because the location of the abnormal product can be tracked based on information about the distance between the labeling device 1 and the discharge device and information about the conveyor belt speed. Even if the distance between the two devices and the conveyor belt speed are unknown, this can be achieved by pre-setting a process to execute discharge control after a certain time or a certain number of passes after receiving the abnormality information. Furthermore, the labeling device 1 or a higher-level server may calculate the above information and transmit the abnormality information to the discharge device at an appropriate time. In this case, no special calculation is required on the discharge device side; discharge control can be executed based on the reception of the abnormality information.

[0047] Here, the affixing unit 60 may change the affixing position of the label 100L based on the determination result of the determination unit. That is, the affixing unit 60 affixes the defective label 100L to a product at different positions from those of the normal label 100L. Specifically, the affixing unit 60 changes the affixing position of the label 100L by delaying or advancing the affixing timing of the defective label 100L relative to the affixing timing of the normal label 100L.

[0048] The discharge pool contains a mixture of products determined to be abnormal by the determination unit of the labeling device 1 and products determined to be abnormal by another device on the production line. Products determined to be abnormal by the determination unit of the labeling device 1 have an abnormality only in the label 100L, and can be made non-defective by replacing the label 100L or the packaging material to which the label 100L is affixed. In contrast, products determined to be abnormal by another device, such as an X-ray inspection device or a metal inspection device, are likely to have an abnormality in the contents themselves. In other words, the response of workers to products determined to be abnormal by the determination unit of the labeling device 1 and products determined to be abnormal by another device on the production line is significantly different. In this regard, by using a configuration that changes the affixing position of the label 100L depending on the determination result of the labeling device 1, it is immediately clear in the discharge pool which products have been rejected due to an abnormality in the label 100L. This will reduce the burden on workers of visual inspection and reduce human errors such as accidentally repackaging defective products with abnormalities in the contents themselves.

[0049] Furthermore, if the abnormality does not require a shutdown, the output unit may display information about the determined abnormality on the display device 106a of the labeling device or an appropriate display device connected by wire or wirelessly. For example, the determination unit calculates the match rate between the read data and the correct data, and the output unit estimates the type of abnormality based on this match rate and displays a message corresponding to the type of abnormality. For example, if the match rate is within a predetermined range, the output unit may estimate that there is dirt on the thermal head 41 and display a countermeasure to resolve the abnormality, such as "Is there dirt on the thermal head?". If the match rate is within a different predetermined range, the output unit may estimate that there is oil on the thermal head and display a countermeasure different from the above, such as "Is there oil on the thermal head?". This configuration makes it easy for operators to understand how to resolve the abnormality.

[0050] Furthermore, the output unit may display the number of affixed labels determined to be abnormal on the display device 106a or an appropriate display device. With this configuration, it is possible to easily grasp the number of products that have been determined to be abnormal by the determination unit of the labeling device 1 among the products remaining in the downstream discharge pool.

[0051] ●Processing flow to determine whether there are any abnormalities in the label An example of a processing flow for determining whether or not there is an abnormality in the label 100L and for varying the processing depending on the state of the abnormality will be described with reference to FIG.

[0052] First, the printing unit 40 of the label application device 1 prints the label 100L (step S11). Next, the reading unit 50 reads the printed content of the label 100L (step S12). The determining unit determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the label 100L based on the reading result by the reading unit 50 (step S13). If it is determined that there is no abnormality in the label 100L, the applying unit 60 applies the label 100L to the object to which it is to be applied (step S14).

[0053] If it is determined in step S13 that there is an abnormality in the label 100L, the determination unit determines whether the abnormality is one that requires the production line to be stopped (step S15).

[0054] If the abnormality does not require a stop in step S15, the output unit outputs abnormality information to an external device (step S16). Next, the affixing unit 60 affixes the label 100L indicating the abnormality to the product (step S17).

[0055] In step S15, if the abnormality of the label 100L is determined to be an abnormality that requires the production line to be stopped, the output unit outputs abnormality information to an external device (step S18), and stops the production line (step S19). This configuration allows the production line to continue operating as long as possible, thereby maintaining product production efficiency.

[0056] ●Screen example FIG. 6 shows an example of an issuance screen G1 displayed on the display device 106a or an appropriate display device connected by wire or wirelessly. When this issuance screen G1 is displayed, no weighing is performed, and labels are affixed to products of the same weight. As shown in the figure, the issuance screen G1 displays a product information field G11, an issuance operation field G12, a status display field G13, and the like. The lower left corner of the issuance screen G1 also displays information such as the total number of labels to be printed, the number of labels printed, the content volume, and the unit, and provides a setting field G14 for accepting changes to these settings. Furthermore, to the left of the setting field G14, there is provided an inspection information field G15 for displaying inspection results.

[0057] The test information field G15 displays at least part of the information obtained by the test. The test information field G15 is selectable, and selecting the field displays detailed information about the test results.

[0058] The inspection information field G15 and the information displayed when selected are, for example, the inspection results of the most recently applied label. The inspection results may be expressed as a numerical match rate, such as "88%, or as a judgment result of "good" or "bad" based on a predetermined threshold. The inspection results may also be a distribution of the results of products inspected since the start of operation to the present. In this case, the number of labels for each predetermined range may be displayed based on the numerical match rate, such as 3 labels with a match rate of 0 to 79%, and 45 labels with a match rate of 80 to 100%. This may also be displayed graphically, such as a histogram or pie chart.

[0059] Furthermore, the inspection result may be the label image of the most recent product determined to be abnormal. A frame or other display indicating the area determined to be abnormal may be superimposed on the label image. This configuration makes it easier to visually identify the cause of the abnormality. Furthermore, the inspection result may include superimposed display of scan areas SA1 to SA4 (see FIG. 3) and verification areas VA1 to VA10 (see FIG. 4) on the label image. Furthermore, if identifiable, the names of items such as product name, price, manufacturing date, and expiration date may be displayed. This configuration allows the operator to easily recognize the area being compared.

[0060] The examination information field G15 can be selected to change the size of the examination information display area in multiple stages. The size of the examination information display area can be changed, for example, from one-tenth of the screen to the entire screen, and the display changes each time the examination information field G15 or the displayed examination information window is selected. This configuration improves the visibility of the image even when a label image is displayed.

[0061] FIG. 7 shows an example of the weighing and issuing screen G2 displayed on the display device 106a or an appropriate display device connected by wire or wirelessly. The weighing and issuing screen G2 displays the weighing and issuing screen G2 in a manner that involves weighing products, pricing them based on the weighing results, and issuing labels. As shown in FIG. 7, the weighing and issuing screen G2 displays a weighing and pricing field G21, a product information field G22, an issuing operation field G23, a status display field G24, and other fields. The lower left corner of the weighing and issuing screen G2 displays information such as the total number of labels to be issued, the number of labels to be issued, the issuing method, container identification information, specified content volume, and upper and lower limits for the weight of the content volume, along with a setting field G25 for changing these settings. The left side of the screen also displays an inspection information field G26 where inspection results are displayed. This inspection information field G26 is similar to the inspection information field G15 in FIG. 6 described above.

[0062] The measurement value field G21 has a tare weight field G21a, a measurement value field G21b, a unit price field G21c, and a price field G21d. The tare weight field G21a displays the tare weight value referenced in the tare subtraction process. The measurement value field G21b displays the value obtained by subtracting the tare from the value measured on the conveyance platform 101. Furthermore, when the measurement value field G21b displays the measurement value after tare subtraction, the measurement value field G21b displays an indication that the tare has been subtracted. The unit price field G21c is a field that displays the unit price of the called product, i.e., the price per unit weight. Here, the price per 100g is displayed. The price field G21d displays the price of the product calculated based on the unit price and the measurement value of the product.

[0063] The product information field G22 displays product information such as the product name, delivery method, product number, store number, expiration date, and production date.

[0064] The product information for the products to be priced by weight can be input by directly entering the product number, by selecting by referring to a pre-stored product list, by calling up the product numbers before and after the currently displayed product, by calling up using a preset key, etc. Also, product classifications may be stored, and the information may be called up from the product classification or sub-classification. Furthermore, by selecting a group (also called a "line") that is pre-registered according to various sale periods, etc., it may be possible to call up products belonging to that line.

[0065] Furthermore, product information may be called up from the history of products for which pricing and label printing have been performed. Here, a configuration may be adopted in which by selecting a date from a date selection screen, product names for which the selected date was the last pricing date can be extracted. In addition to the date selection screen, a history of products for which labels were printed on that day may be displayed by pressing an icon labeled "Today's Work." Furthermore, product information may be called up by searching for a phrase. Furthermore, products with the most frequent label printing or product information accesses may be displayed in descending order of frequency, allowing a product to be selected from the display. Furthermore, product information may be called up by scanning the product's barcode.

[0066] The weighing and printing screen G2 in Figure 7 shows a state in which label printing has stopped and key operations are accepted. Pressing each area of ​​the setting field G25 transitions to a setting screen corresponding to the content displayed in that area. The setting field G25 displays an "upper weight limit" field G25a and a "lower weight limit" field G25b on the same screen. The "upper weight limit" field G25a displays that the upper limit relative to the reference value is "140%" as a percentage, and the "lower weight limit" field G25b displays that the upper limit relative to the reference value is "50%" as a percentage.

[0067] ●Composition of the peeling plate As shown in Figure 8, the peeling plate 70 is a member that peels the label 100L from the backing paper 100D downstream in the conveying direction of the thermal head 41. In this embodiment, the peeling plate 70 is a flat member that is provided contiguous with the label conveying surface of the platen roller 42 and extends downstream in the conveying direction. The label paper 100 that is fed from the gap between the thermal head 41 and the platen roller 42 is held on the surface of the peeling plate 70 and fed to the reading area of ​​the label detection sensor 51. The peeling plate 70 is an example of peeling means.

[0068] The backing sheet 100D is folded back at the tip of the peeling plate 70 and extends out to the back surface of the peeling plate 70. The backing sheet 100D is wound around a take-up roller 122 that rotates approximately synchronously with the feed section 103, and is wound up in accordance with the rotation of the stepping motor 43. When the backing sheet 100D is wound around the take-up roller 122 and pulled to the back surface of the peeling plate 70, the label 100L on the front surface side of the peeling plate 70 is peeled off from the backing sheet 100D, and only the label 100L remains on the peeling plate 70 and on its extension in the conveying direction. In other words, the downstream end of the peeling plate 70 in the label conveying direction has a peeling function.

[0069] The downstream end of the peeling plate 70 is provided downstream in the conveying direction from the label detection sensor 51. With this configuration, the label can be inspected before it is peeled off from the backing sheet 100D, so that the authenticity of the label can be determined before it is affixed to the product, enabling efficient production processing.

[0070] In this embodiment, the length of the peeling plate 70 in the label feed direction is longer than the length of the reading area of ​​the label detection sensor 51. When the length of the housing of the label detection sensor 51 in the label feed direction and the length of the reading area are approximately equal, the peeling plate 70 is longer than the length of the label detection sensor 51 in the feed direction. The peeling plate 70 extends downstream from the end of the label detection sensor 51 in the feed direction. In other words, after the reading process by the label detection sensor 51, the peeling process by the end of the peeling plate 70 starts. With this configuration, the label 100L is securely held by the peeling plate 70 during the reading process, ensuring high reading accuracy.

[0071] Furthermore, by configuring the peeling plate 70 to hold the label in the reading area of ​​the label detection sensor 51, the position of the label in the reading area is stabilized, allowing the label to be read with high accuracy by the label detection sensor 51. Furthermore, compared to when the holding member in the reading area and the member with the peeling function are configured as separate parts, the number of parts can be reduced and the configuration can be simplified. Note that configurations in which the holding member for holding the label in the reading area and the member with the peeling function are configured as separate parts also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0072] The gap between the label detection sensor 51 and the peeling plate 70 is very small. By making the distance between the label detection sensor 51 and the peeling plate 70 as small as possible, the distance between the label 100L and the label detection sensor 51 can be kept constant, allowing for stable reading processing. If the label detection sensor 51 and the peeling plate 70 are configured as an integrated device, the gap between the label detection sensor 51 and the peeling plate 70 can be made very small and the size of the gap can be kept constant, allowing for even more stable reading processing.

[0073] The peeling process by the peeling plate 70 and the reading process by the label detection sensor 51 may be performed simultaneously. More specifically, the reading process by the label detection sensor 51 is performed during at least a portion of the time from when peeling of the label 100L begins to when peeling is completed during the peeling process. Furthermore, the peeling process may proceed overlappingly during at least a portion of the time when the label detection sensor 51 is reading, and the label is peeled from the backing sheet 100D. This configuration can increase the throughput of issuing labels 100L per unit time. In particular, this configuration can achieve a high issuance throughput with compact production equipment compared to a configuration in which the printing process, peeling process, and verification process of the label 100L are performed by separate devices.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 8, a sensor guide 71 is provided near the reading section of the label detection sensor 51, facing the peeling plate 70. The sensor guide 71 is a member that blocks disturbances, such as light other than light emitted by the label detection sensor 51, from entering the reading area of ​​the label detection sensor 51. The sensor guide 71 is, for example, a thin plate. In this embodiment, the sensor guides 71 are provided near the reading section of the label detection sensor 51, one upstream and one downstream in the conveyance direction of the label 100L. However, instead of or in addition to this, the sensor guides 71 may be provided to the side of the label detection sensor 51 in the conveyance direction (forward or backward in FIG. 5). This configuration makes it possible to stabilize the reading accuracy of the label detection sensor 51.

[0075] The sensor guide 71 widens from a position close to the label detection sensor 51 toward a position away from the label detection sensor 51. The sensor guide 71, located upstream of the label detection sensor 51 in the conveying direction, has its end opposite the label detection sensor 51 bent away from the peeling plate 70. This configuration facilitates entry of labels from upstream in the conveying direction. The sensor guide 71, located downstream of the label detection sensor 51 in the conveying direction, also has its end opposite the label detection sensor 51 bent away from the peeling plate 70. This configuration allows the discharged label to have a certain amount of play due to the bend, ensuring reliable label adsorption by the label holding surface 63. Note that if there were no play, there is a risk that the label 100L would collide with the end of the sensor guide 71 and fall off, resulting in failure of adsorption by the label holding surface 63.

[0076] Label cassette As shown in FIG. 9(a), the label roll 100R is held by a label cassette 200 and set in the upper label printing and application unit 2a. The label cassette 200 has a transparent cassette cover 210 on the front, allowing the label roll 100R to be stored therein in a state where it can be seen from the outside. Inside the label cassette 200, a first convex portion 110 and a second convex portion 110a are disposed so as to protrude toward the front. The first convex portion 110 is a protrusion that engages with the shaft of the label roll 100R, and a hole 111 is provided in the approximate center of the first convex portion 110, through which the label supply unit 102 is inserted. A take-up roller 122 engages with a second hole 121 located approximately in the center of the second convex portion 110a, and the second convex portion 110a winds up the backing sheet 100D from which the labels 100L have been peeled. That is, the label cassette 200 integrally stores the label 100L and the mount 100D that is adhered to the adhesive surface of the label 100L. The label cassette 200 is an example of a storage unit that stores labels.

[0077] As shown in Figures 9(b) and 10, when the label cassette 200 is removed from the label application device 1, the liner transport unit 700 is exposed below the take-up roller 122. The liner transport unit 700 has a platen roller 42 and a peeling plate 70. The liner clamping and transport section 44 is made up of a first roller 44a and a second roller 44b that face each other, and curves the liner 100D upward from below the platen roller 42 and guides it to the take-up roller 122. The first roller 44a and the second roller 44b are free rollers. As shown in Figure 9(c), the label paper 100 is pulled out below the label cassette 200 when it is set in the label application device 1. The label paper 100 passes from the downstream side to the upstream side of the liner transport unit 700, passes through the liner clamping and transport section 44, is guided upward, and is taken up by the take-up roller 122.

[0078] The liner transport unit 700 is movable approximately horizontally in the label transport direction. That is, the platen roller 42 and peeling plate 70 move together. In FIG. 10, the label roll 100R is not yet set, and the liner transport unit 700 has the peeling plate 70 separated from the thermal head 41 and the label detection sensor 51. In FIG. 11, the label roll 100R is set, and the liner transport unit 700 has moved to a position where the peeling plate 70 faces the thermal head 41. The label paper 100 is set below the peeling plate 70 and along the bottom of the label cassette 200.

[0079] The liner transport unit 700 is electrically moved by, for example, a rack-and-pinion mechanism connected to a stepping motor. A sensor may be provided to detect the installation of the label cassette 200, and when the sensor detects the label cassette 200, the stepping motor is driven to move the liner transport unit 700 toward the thermal head 41. When the label cassette 200 is removed or a cassette removal button is pressed to remove the label cassette 200, the stepping motor rotates in the reverse direction, and the liner transport unit 700 moves to a position away from the thermal head 41 and the label detection sensor 51.

[0080] As shown in Figure 10, when no label is set, the platen roller 42 is spaced apart from the thermal head 41 and the label detection sensor 51, making it easy for the operator to pass the label paper 100 between the platen roller 42 and the thermal head 41. Also, as shown in Figure 11, when a label is set, the platen roller 42, peeling plate 70, thermal head 41, and label detection sensor 51 are close to each other, making it possible to peel, print, and read the label using compact equipment.

[0081] 9(a), the label cassette 200 has a guide plate 72 that guides the liner 100D. The guide plate 72 is an example of a guide means. The guide plate 72 is a flat plate that protrudes laterally from the bottom of the label cassette 200. The guide plate 72 is provided in the path along which the liner 100D, pulled out from the label roll 100R engaged with the first convex portion 110, reaches the second convex portion 110a. The tip of the guide plate abuts against the liner 100D, causing the liner 100D to detour to the side of the label cassette 200.

[0082] 12(a), the guide plate 72 protrudes further to the side of the label cassette 200 than the peeling plate 70 when the liner transport unit 700 is retracted below the label cassette 200. As a result, when the label cassette 200 is installed in the label application device 1 with the peeling plate 70 retracted, the guide plate 72 determines the position of the liner 100D so that the peeling plate 70 does not come into contact with the liner 100D. In other words, the guide plate 72 makes it easier to install the label cassette 200 in the label application device 1 when the liner transport unit 700 is retracted below the label cassette 200.

[0083] 13 shows the label detection sensor 51 and the application unit 60 separated from the thermal head 41 and the mount transport unit 700, exposing the window 51a of the first housing 80 that houses the control panel for the label detection sensor 51. The window 51a provides access to the inside of the first housing 80, making it possible to repair or replace the internal control panel. In this embodiment, the first housing 80 that houses the label detection sensor 51 and the control panel and the second housing 81 that houses the thermal head 41 and its control panel are connected by a hinge 90, making the second housing 81 rotatable relative to the first housing 80. The second housing may also house the control panel for the application unit 60.

[0084] If the thermal head 41, label detection sensor 51, and their control panel were housed in the same housing, when an abnormality occurred in the thermal head 41 and it was attempted to replace it, it would be necessary to remove the label detection sensor 51. In contrast, if the thermal head 41 and the label detection sensor 51 are housed in different housings, and these housings are rotatable so that the opposing surfaces can be separated from each other, it is not necessary to remove the label detection sensor 51 when replacing the thermal head 41, and maintainability can be ensured.

[0085] Labeling device (2) Here, a second embodiment of the labeling device will be described, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment described above. The labeling device of the second embodiment is a device that applies so-called linerless labels that do not have a label mount, in other words, linerless labels. In other words, the technical scope of the present invention is also applicable to devices that apply linerless labels. 14, the label application device of the second embodiment includes a cutter unit 171, a roller unit 172, and a transport auxiliary unit 173. In the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0086] The cutter unit 171 is a component that cuts the linerless label 300L. The cutter unit 171 has, for example, a pair of blades 171a and 171b arranged above and below the linerless label 300L. At least one of the pair of blades 171a and 171b moves up and down to interlock with each other and cut the linerless label 300L. For example, only the blade 171a located above the linerless label 300L moves up and down. The linerless label 300L allows the label length to be freely adjusted depending on the print content, and since there is no backing paper, no waste is generated. However, the label must be cut to the appropriate length before application. A configuration including the cutter unit 171 allows the linerless label 300L to be applied to the label application device of the present invention.

[0087] The roller unit 172 is a member that is disposed downstream in the conveying direction of the label detection sensor 51 and upstream of the cutter unit 171. The roller unit 172 has a pair of rollers and is installed so as to sandwich the linerless label 300L.

[0088] In the label printing device of the related art, a cutter unit was located adjacent to the thermal head and platen roller, so the linerless label 300L was held by the thermal head and platen roller, preventing the linerless label 300L from being pulled downward by the cutter unit 171. In the label application device of the present invention, the label detection sensor 51 is provided between the thermal head 41 and platen roller 42 and the cutter unit 171, so the thermal head 41 and platen roller 42 cannot hold the label 300L when it is cut. In addition, the cut label 300L is pulled by the cutter unit 171, causing vibrations and the like, which may affect the label being read by the upstream label detection sensor 51.

[0089] Therefore, when the cutter unit 171 cuts the linerless label 300L, the roller unit 172 holds the upstream side of the label 300L, preventing the linerless label 300L from being pulled downward by the cutter unit 171. The roller unit 172 also prevents vibrations caused by cutting from being transmitted upstream of the roller unit 172, allowing stable reading by the label detection sensor 51.

[0090] The transport auxiliary unit 173 is a member disposed between the cutter unit 171 and the application unit 60 in the transport direction. The transport auxiliary unit 173 is a member that moves back and forth in the transport direction and has an adsorption surface on its underside. The cutter unit 171 and the label adsorption unit 62 are large devices, and there is a limit to how close they can be physically to each other. Therefore, the transport auxiliary unit 173 makes it possible to transport the label cut by the cutter unit 171 to the label adsorption unit 62. The transport auxiliary unit 173 can reliably adsorb the cut label to the label adsorption unit 62, even if the label is short in the transport direction. If the cut label is determined to be a short label that does not sufficiently reach the label holding surface 63, the transport auxiliary unit 173 may be configured to transport the label to the vicinity of the label holding surface 63.

[0091] In this embodiment, the linerless label 300L is cut after being read by the label detection sensor 51. If the linerless label 300L is to be read after being cut, it is necessary to read the label 300L while it is being transported by the transport auxiliary unit 173. However, this configuration would inevitably result in interference between the transport auxiliary unit 173 and the label detection sensor 51, making it difficult to realize.

[0092] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since there is no need to peel off the label backing, the peel-off plate 70 described in the first embodiment is not necessary. In fact, since it is desirable to minimize contact with other mechanisms during the reading and application process of the linerless label 300L, which exposes the adhesive surface, the peel-off plate 70 is not necessary for stable printing. However, by covering the lower part of the label with a plate during reading, it is possible to block external light. In this case, it is preferable that the surface of the plate is non-adhesive. Furthermore, the plate may be positioned below the peel-off plate 70 in the first embodiment and away from the label detection sensor 51. This configuration prevents the adhesive surface of the linerless label 300L from adhering to the plate, ensuring stable label transport.

[0093] ● Overview of implementation The present invention relates to a label application device and a control program for the label application device.

[0094] 2. Description of the Related Art Label inspection devices are known that issue labels and affix them to products, and determine whether the issued labels are good or bad.

[0095] Patent documents include Japanese Patent No. 4393497.

[0096] However, when the labeling device is part of a product production line together with other devices, stopping the production line every time an abnormality in a label is detected can result in a decrease in production efficiency.

[0097] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a label application device that can efficiently produce products even if there is a temporary abnormality in the printed label.

[0098] In order to achieve the above object, a label application device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a reading means for reading the printed surface of a label, a determination means for determining whether or not there is an abnormality in the label based on the reading result of the reading means, an output means for outputting an abnormality if the determination result of the determination means is abnormal, and an application means for applying the label to an object when the abnormality is output.

[0099] The labeling means may change the labeling position based on the determination result.

[0100] The labeling device may further comprise a storage means for storing the label and a backing sheet adhered to the adhesive surface of the label as a single unit, a peeling means for peeling the label from the backing sheet, and a guiding means for guiding the backing sheet so that the peeling means does not come into contact with the backing sheet when the storage means is installed in the labeling device.

[0101] In order to achieve the above object, a control program for a label application device according to another aspect of the present invention causes a computer to execute a read command to read the printed surface of a label, a judgment command to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the label based on the read result of the read command, an output command to output an abnormality if the judgment result of the judgment command is abnormal, and an application command to apply the label to an object when the abnormality is output.

[0102] According to the present invention, even if there is a temporary abnormality in the printed label, products can be produced efficiently. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1 Labeling device 40 Printing Department 41 Thermal head 50 Reading unit 51 Label detection sensor 60 Attachment part 61 Label suction unit 62 Label retaining surface 70 Peeling plate (peeling means) 100L label 100D mount 200 Label cassette (storage means)

Claims

1. reading means for reading the printed surface of the label; a determination means for determining whether or not there is an abnormality in the label based on the reading result of the reading means; an output means for outputting a message indicating that the determination result of the determination means is abnormal if the determination result is abnormal; an attachment means for attaching the label when the output indicating an abnormality is received and the label when the determination result of the determination means is normal to an object to be labeled; Equipped with the affixing means affixes the label to the object whether the determination result is normal or abnormal, and varies the affixing position of the label on the object based on the determination result. Label application device.

2. a storage means for storing the label and a backing sheet to be adhered to the adhesive surface of the label together; peeling means for peeling the label from the backing; a guide means for guiding the backing sheet so that the peeling means does not come into contact with the backing sheet when the storage means is installed in the label application device; The labeling device of claim 1 further comprising:

3. a read command to read the printed surface of the label; a determination command for determining whether or not there is an abnormality in the label based on the reading result of the reading command; an output command to output a result of the determination in the determination command that is abnormal if the result is abnormal; a labeling command to affix the label when the output indicating an abnormality is detected and the label when the determination result in the determination command is normal to an object to be labeled; on the computer, the label affixing command affixes the label to the object regardless of whether the determination result is normal or abnormal, and varies the affixing position of the label on the object based on the determination result. Label application device control program.

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