Clamping pin for label tape roll

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a clamping pin for clamping a label tape roll. The clamping pin has multiple clamping regions which are arranged distributed around a circumference of the clamping pin for internal clamping of a roll core of the label tape roll. The multiple clamping regions are formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a clamping pin for clamping a label tape roll and an apparatus for clamping and unwinding a label tape roll for a labeling device. The invention further relates to a method for handling a label tape roll, to a method for producing a clamping pin, and to a computer program product.TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] A container treatment plant can comprise a labeling device for labeling containers. For example, the labeling device can label the containers with labels from a label tape roll (roll of label material).

[0003] Traditionally, the label tape rolls are refilled manually by an operator. The operator can take a new label tape roll and place it on the roller plate / film plate using a central clamping element. The clamping element allows the label tape roll to be clamped centrally and secured against rotation relative to the roller plate. The user may have to perform additional tasks, such as cutting the label tape to the correct position, applying double-sided adhesive tape to the label tape, or inserting the label tape into an automatic gluing.

[0004] DE 10 2021 125 133 A1 describes a mobile robot, a supply system, and a method for changing label tape rolls on a labeling unit for labeling containers. The mobile robot accordingly comprises a vehicle unit for changing locations of the robot and a manipulator unit with a multi-axle manipulator and an associated end effector for manipulating label tape rolls. Since the end effector is configured to grip the outer circumference of the label tape rolls and emptied roll cores of label tape rolls so as to carry them, ergonomically problematic work steps when refilling label tape rolls can be accomplished exclusively by machine with a high degree of precision and in a material-saving manner.

[0005] The invention is based on the object of creating an improved and simplified technique for clamping label tape rolls, e.g., on rotatable roller plates, for a labeling device. The technology should preferably facilitate automated loading with a label tape roll.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0007] One aspect concerns a clamping pin for clamping a label tape roll, preferably on a roller plate. The clamping pin has multiple, preferably hollow, clamping regions which are arranged (e.g., evenly) distributed around a circumference of the clamping pin for internal clamping of a roll core of the label tape roll (clamping a core of the label tape roll from the inside). The multiple clamping regions are formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, preferably PA material layers or TPU material layers.

[0008] Advantageously, the clamping pin can therefore be easily manufactured using additive manufacturing. The structures that can be produced using additive manufacturing make it possible to integrate movable and elastically expandable portions directly into the clamping pin to form the clamping regions. For example, this eliminates the need for complex assembly and maintenance of the clamping pin.

[0009] In one exemplary embodiment, the multiple clamping regions for internal clamping of the roll core of the label tape roll are actuatable, preferably fluid-actuatable, and particularly preferably pneumatically actuatable.

[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, the multiple clamping regions each have a clamping face, preferably profiled and / or cylindrical jacket segment-shaped, for contacting an inner circumferential face of the roll core. Preferably, the multiple clamping regions each have (at least) one hollow chamber which is arranged internally to the corresponding clamping face and can be subjected to fluid for (e.g., elastic) expansion, for moving the corresponding clamping face (e.g., radially) outwards (e.g., guided by (e.g., dovetail) guide(s) of the clamping pin).

[0011] Preferably, the guide(s) restricts / restrict the movability of the clamping faces to movement in a radial direction with respect to a central axis of the clamping pin.

[0012] In one embodiment, the hollow chambers are each formed in a block-shaped, ring-segment-shaped, hollow cylinder-segment-shaped clamping region or by a bellows portion of the corresponding clamping region. Alternatively or additionally, the hollow chambers are connected to each other via (at least) one, preferably ring-shaped, connecting channel. Alternatively or additionally, the hollow chambers can be filled with compressed air via a pneumatic port of the clamping pin.

[0013] In another embodiment, the clamping pin has multiple connecting regions which are arranged (e.g., evenly) distributed around the circumference of the clamping pin in each case between two adjacent clamping regions of the multiple clamping regions and connect these two adjacent clamping regions to each other. The multiple connecting regions are set back relative to the multiple clamping regions, preferably radially inwards. Preferably, the multiple clamping regions and the multiple connecting regions are integrally formed in one piece. Preferably, the multiple connecting regions are formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, preferably PA material layers or TPU material layers. For example, the multiple connecting regions are solid bodies or have an inner support structure (e.g., 3D grid).

[0014] Advantageously, the connecting regions can allow the clamping pin to be used in combination with an inner gripper for taking over and transferring the label tape roll. Advantageously, the internal clamping jaws of the inner gripper can plunge into the gaps between the clamping regions created by the connecting regions during takeover and transfer.

[0015] Preferably, the multiple connecting regions and the multiple clamping regions are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction around a central axis of the clamping pin.

[0016] Preferably, the number of connecting regions can be equal to the number of clamping regions.

[0017] In one embodiment variant, the clamping pin is formed entirely from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, preferably PA material layers and / or TPU material layers.

[0018] In another embodiment variant, the clamping pin also has an inner core, preferably sleeve-shaped, which supports the multiple clamping regions and optionally multiple connecting regions of the clamping pin from the inside. This advantageously allows for a stable support of the clamping regions from the inside, which in turn makes clamping regions comparatively flexible / bendable.

[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, at least one of the following is fulfilled:

[0020] the inner core is formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers, preferably TPU material layers;

[0021] a material forming the inner core has a greater (e.g., Shore) hardness than a material forming the multiple clamping regions (and optionally the multiple connecting regions);

[0022] the inner core is detachably connected to the clamping regions, preferably by a mounting cover and / or screw connections;

[0023] an outer circumferential face of the inner core limits hollow chambers of the clamping regions (e.g., on the inside) and / or a ring-shaped connecting channel of the clamping pin.

[0024] Another aspect concerns an apparatus for clamping and unwinding a label tape roll for a labeling device. The apparatus has (at least) one roller plate for unwinding the label tape roll and (at least) one clamping pin as disclosed herein, which is arranged for clamping the label tape roll to the roller plate and is preferably detachably (e.g., by screw connections) fastened to the roller plate, preferably via a (e.g., hood-shaped) mounting cover on a top side of the clamping pin.

[0025] In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a coupling device configured to couple and decouple a fluid connection for supplying compressed air to the clamping pin (e.g., to the hollow chambers of the clamping pin) and / or for removing air from the clamping pin (e.g., from the hollow chambers of the clamping pin). Advantageously, with a coupled fluid connection, the clamping pin can be supplied with compressed air to clamp the label tape roll, or compressed air can be released from the clamping pin to release the label tape roll.

[0026] In a further exemplary embodiment, at least one of the following conditions is met:

[0027] the coupling device is arranged below or radially outside the roller plate;

[0028] the fluid connection runs portion by portion (e.g., by hose line(s) or pipe line(s)) through the roller plate;

[0029] the coupling device is arranged for coupling with and decoupling from a connecting piece that is arranged in or on the roller plate for rotation with the roller plate (e.g., on an underside or an outer circumferential side of the roller plate);

[0030] the coupling device has a coupling piece (e.g., piston of a piston-cylinder unit) that can be extended and retracted, preferably pneumatically, for coupling and decoupling the fluid connection (e.g., for coupling and decoupling to / from the connecting piece);

[0031] the coupling device is pneumatically driven or motor-driven;

[0032] the fluid connection has a non-return valve;

[0033] a rotary drive, which is connected to the roller plate in a driving manner, is configured to rotate the roller plate into a predefined coupling position in which the fluid connection can be coupled by the coupling device.

[0034] In one embodiment, the roller plate has a contact face, preferably on the upper side, for contacting the label tape roll. The contact face has at least one grip recess for gripping the label tape roll from below (e.g., by hand). Preferably, the at least one grip recess can extend in a radial direction of the roller plate. Preferably, the at least one grip recess can extend to the outer circumference of the roller plate. This can advantageously simplify manual handling of the label tape roll, if required.

[0035] Another aspect concerns a plant comprising a labeling device and an apparatus as disclosed herein. The apparatus can be connected to the labeling device for supplying a label tape unwound from the apparatus to the labeling device.

[0036] For example, the plant can be a container treatment plant (e.g., for controlling temperature, producing, cleaning, coating, testing, filling, closing, pasteurizing, decorating, labeling, printing, marking, laser marking, and / or packaging containers for liquid or pasty media, preferably beverages, liquid foods, or products from the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry).

[0037] For example, the containers can be realized as bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, vials, tubes, etc.

[0038] Another aspect concerns a method for handling a label tape roll. The method comprises: clamping the label tape roll by a clamping pin as disclosed herein or by a clamping pin of an apparatus as disclosed herein. The multiple clamping regions clamp a roll core of the label tape roll from the inside, preferably wherein hollow chambers of the multiple clamping regions are expanded by applying compressed air (e.g., elastically). Advantageously, the method can achieve the same advantages as already described herein with reference to the clamping pin.

[0039] In one exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises at least one of the following:

[0040] rotating a roller plate into a predefined coupling position (e.g., by a rotary drive) and, in the coupling position, coupling a fluid connection by a coupling device for supplying compressed air to the clamping pin to clamp the label tape roll and / or for releasing compressed air from the clamping pin to release the label tape roll (e.g., by a coupling device);

[0041] transferring the, preferably full, label tape roll to the clamping pin by an inner gripper, the internal clamping jaws of which clamp the roll core of the label tape roll from the inside and, during transfer, plunge (dip or immerse) into gaps (e.g., formed by set-back connecting regions of the clamping pin) between the clamping regions; and

[0042] taking over the, preferably empty, label tape roll from the clamping pin by an inner gripper, the internal clamping jaws of which clamp the roll core of the label tape roll from the inside and, during takeover, plunge (dip or immerse) into gaps (e.g., formed by set-back connecting regions of the clamping pin) between the clamping regions.

[0043] A further aspect relates to a method for producing a clamping pin as disclosed herein. The method comprises: additive manufacturing of the clamping pin and / or the multiple clamping regions (and optionally the multiple connecting regions and / or the inner core), preferably in an FLM process. Advantageously, the method can achieve the same advantages as already described herein with reference to the clamping pin.

[0044] A further aspect relates to a computer program product having instructions (for example, at least one computer-readable storage medium having such instructions stored thereon) that cause an additive manufacturing apparatus (for example, 3D printer) to carry out a method as disclosed herein for producing a clamping pin or to produce a clamping pin as disclosed herein in a plurality of material layers in an additive production process (for example FLM process).

[0045] For example, the computer program product may contain a file with a representation of the clamping pin. For example, the representation could be a 3D model of the clamping pin. For example, the representation can have multiple layers, which can represent, for example, the multiple material layers.

[0046] The preferred embodiments and features of the invention described above can be combined with one another as desired.

[0047] It is explicitly pointed out that the features disclosed herein are also disclosed in combination with a clamping pin that is not additively manufactured or the clamping regions of which are not formed from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0048] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0049] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a clamping pin according to an exemplary embodiment on a roller plate, wherein the clamping pin clamps a label tape roll;

[0050] FIG. 2 shows another perspective view of the exemplary clamping pin during the takeover or transfer of the label tape roll using an inner gripper;

[0051] FIG. 3 shows a perspective representation of an exemplary clamping pin;

[0052] FIG. 4 shows a perspective sectional view of the exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 3;

[0053] FIG. 5 shows a further perspective sectional view of the exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 3;

[0054] FIG. 6 shows a further perspective sectional view of the exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 3;

[0055] FIG. 7 shows a perspective representation of a further exemplary clamping pin;

[0056] FIG. 8 shows a perspective sectional view of the further exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 7;

[0057] FIG. 9 shows a further perspective sectional view of the further exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 7;

[0058] FIG. 10 shows a perspective representation of a further exemplary clamping pin;

[0059] FIG. 11 shows a perspective sectional view of the further, other exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 10;

[0060] FIG. 12 shows a further perspective sectional view of the further, other exemplary clamping pin of FIG. 10;

[0061] FIG. 13 shows an apparatus for clamping and unwinding label tape rolls in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

[0062] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view from below of a portion of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 13;

[0063] FIG. 15 shows a perspective sectional view through a portion of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 13;

[0064] FIG. 16 shows a sectional view through a portion of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 13; and

[0065] FIG. 17 shows a perspective representation of a portion of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 13, wherein a roller plate and a base plate of the exemplary apparatus are shown transparently.

[0066] The embodiments shown in the drawings correspond at least in part, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference signs and reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or figures for the explanation thereof to avoid repetition.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0067] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a clamping pin 18 for clamping a label tape roll 10 to a roller plate 12. Preferably, the clamping pin 18 can clamp the label tape roll 10 in a rotationally fixed manner relative to the roller plate 12. Preferably, a central axis of the clamping pin 18 can be vertically aligned. Preferably, the roller plate 12 can be horizontally aligned.

[0068] The label tape roll 10, which is clamped by the clamping pin 18 on the roller plate 12, can be unwound by rotating the roller plate 12 and fed, for example, to a labeling device for labeling objects, such as containers.

[0069] For example, the label tape unwound from the label tape roll 10 can be fed to a labeling unit of the labeling device (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). The labeling unit can, for example, be located on the periphery of a rotary object conveyor of the labeling device. Preferably, the labeling unit can label the objects conveyed by the rotary object conveyor, preferably containers, with labels from the unwound label tape as they pass through the labeling unit.

[0070] The roller plate 12 can also be referred to as a film plate. For example, the roller plate 12 is disc-shaped. Preferably, the roller plate 12 is rotatable for unwinding the label tape roll 10. For example, the roller plate 12 can be included together with another roller plate in an apparatus for clamping and unwinding label tape rolls for a labeling device (see, e.g., apparatus 38 in FIG. 12 to 16).

[0071] Preferably the roller plate 12 can have a contact face 14, preferably on the upper side. The label tape roll 10 can contact the contact face 14. Preferably, the label tape roll 10 can be supported on the underside of the roller plate 12 by the contact face 14.

[0072] Preferably, the contact face 14 can have at least one grip recess 16. The grip recess 16 allows, for example, the label tape roll 10 to be manually gripped underneath during manual loading. Preferably, the at least one grip recess 16 can be configured as an elongated depression in the contact face 14.

[0073] Preferably, the at least one grip recess 16 can extend in a radial direction of the roller plate 12. For example, the grip recess 16 can extend adjacent to an inner circumference of the roller plate 12. For example, the grip recess 16 can extend to the outer circumference of the roller plate 12.

[0074] For example, multiple, e.g., two, three or four, grip recesses 16 are included. The multiple grip recesses 16 can be arranged in the circumferential direction (e.g., evenly) distributed in the contact face 14.

[0075] In addition to or as an alternative to the described application of the clamping pin 18 in combination with the roller plate 12, it is also possible, for example, for the clamping pin 18 to be used in a different way. For example, the clamping pin 18 can be included as an end effector of a stationary or mobile robot for handling a label tape roll 10. For example, the clamping pin 18 can be included together with other clamping pins 18 in a roll storage unit for storing multiple label tape rolls 10.

[0076] The clamping pin 18 can, for example, be cylindrical or sleeve-shaped. The clamping pin 18 has multiple clamping regions 20. The clamping regions 20 are preferably hollow. Preferably, the clamping pin 18 can also have multiple connecting regions 22. The connecting regions 22 are preferably solid bodies. Alternatively, the connecting regions 22 could, for example, have an inner support structure, such as a 3D grid.

[0077] The clamping regions 20 are arranged distributed around an (outer) circumference of the clamping pin 18. Preferably the clamping regions 20 are arranged spaced apart from each other, e.g., with respect to a circumferential direction around a central axis of the clamping pin 18.

[0078] The clamping regions 20 allow the roll core of the label tape roll 10 to be clamped from the inside. The clamping regions 20 can contact an inner circumferential face of the roll core of the label tape roll 10.

[0079] Preferably, the clamping regions 20 are actuatable for internal clamping of the roll core of the label tape roll 10. For example, the clamping regions 20 for internal clamping of the label tape roll 10 are fluid-actuatable, e.g., by compressed air.

[0080] For example, two, three, four or more clamping regions 20 can be included. Preferably, the multiple clamping regions 20 are arranged evenly distributed around the circumference of the clamping pin 18.

[0081] The connecting regions 22 can be distributed around the (outer) circumference of the clamping pin 18, in each case between two adjacent clamping regions 20. The connecting regions 22 can connect the two adjacent clamping regions 20 to each other.

[0082] Preferably, the connecting regions 22 are set back relative to the multiple clamping regions 20. Specifically, the connecting regions 22 can be arranged radially inwards toward a central axis of the clamping pin 18, set back in relation to the clamping regions 20. Preferably, the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 are integrally formed in one piece.

[0083] As shown by way of example in FIG. 2, the set-back connecting regions 22 can create gaps between the clamping regions 20. The inner clamping jaws 24 of an inner gripper 26 can dip into these gaps when taking over and / or transferring the label tape roll 10. The inner clamping jaws 24 can therefore also clamp (tighten) the roll core of the label tape roll 10 from the inside during takeover and / or transfer. The inner gripper 26 can, for example, be an end effector of a mobile or stationary handling robot for handling label tape rolls 10.

[0084] The inner gripper 26 can be configured to complement the clamping pin 18. Specifically, the inner gripper 26 with its internal clamping jaws 24 and gaps between the internal clamping jaws 24 can preferably be complementary to the clamping pin 18 with its connecting regions 22 and its clamping regions 20.

[0085] Preferably, the entire clamping pin 18 is formed from several adjacent, additively manufactured material layers. For example, the clamping pin can be additively manufactured using an FLM process (Fused Layer Modeling process, also known as an FFM process (Fused Filament Fabrication process)). The material layers can be, for example, PA material layers (polyamide material layers) and / or TPU material layers (thermoplastic polyurethane material layers). Specifically, the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 can be formed from the several adjacent material layers.

[0086] The clamping pin 18 can be detachably fastened to the roller plate 12, e.g., by multiple screw connections. The screw connections can extend through through-holes in the clamping pin 18, e.g., from a top side of the clamping pin 18 to a underside of the clamping pin 18 for screwing into the roller plate 12.

[0087] It is possible that the clamping pin 18 is fastened to the roller plate 12 via a mounting cover 28. The mounting cover 28 can, for example, be arranged and supported on a top / front side of the clamping pin 18. The mounting cover 28 can support the screw connections, e.g., at the screw heads of the screw connections. Preferably the mounting cover 28 can be hood-shaped or shell-shaped and cover an upper end portion of the clamping pin 18.

[0088] FIG. 3 to 6 show an exemplary clamping pin 18.

[0089] The clamping regions 20 can each have an outer clamping face 30 and at least one hollow chamber 32.

[0090] The clamping faces 30 can each be facing outwards. The clamping faces 30 can contact an inner circumferential face of the roll core of the label tape roll 10 when the label tape roll 10 is clamped. Preferably the clamping faces 30 can be profiled, for example toothed or ribbed. For example, the clamping faces 30 can each have a cylindrical jacket segment shape.

[0091] The at least one hollow chamber 32 of a corresponding clamping region 20 can be arranged inside that of the corresponding clamping face 30.

[0092] The hollow chambers 32 can be subjected to expansion, preferably with compressed air. When expanding, the hollow chambers 32 can move the clamping face 30 of the corresponding clamping region 20 radially outwards, to clamp the roll core of the label tape roll 10.

[0093] For example, the clamping pin 18 can have a pneumatic port 33. The pneumatic port 33 may be arranged on an underside of the clamping pin 18. Compressed air can be supplied to the hollow chambers 32 via the pneumatic port 33 for the purpose of expanding the hollow chambers 32. Compressed air can be released from the hollow chambers 32 via the pneumatic port 33 to relieve the hollow chambers 32.

[0094] Preferably, the movement of the clamping faces 30 can be guided, as is shown by way of example in FIG. 6. Preferably, the movement of the clamping faces 30 can be guided by a guide 35.

[0095] The guides 35 can guide a movement of the clamping faces 30 in a radial direction with respect to a central axis of the clamping pin 18. Preferably, the guides 35 can restrict the movability of the clamping faces 30 to the radial direction with respect to the central axis of the clamping pin 18. Preferably, the guides 35 can prevent upward, downward, left (transverse), right (transverse) movement as well as twisting and tilting of the clamping faces 30.

[0096] For example, the adjacent connecting regions 22 can have the guides 35, or the guides 35 can be integrated into the clamping regions 20 themselves. The guides 35 can preferably be configured as dovetail guides. For example, each clamping face 30 can be guided by multiple, e.g., four, dovetail guides.

[0097] Advantageously, the guides 35 can absorb a torque that acts on the clamping pin 18 when the roller plate 12 is accelerated or decelerated. This torque must flow via the clamping pin 18 to accelerate the label tape roll 10.

[0098] The clamping regions 20 can, for example, each have a body that is substantially U-shaped in cross section. The clamping face 30 can be arranged in cross section on the middle leg of the U-shape. The guide faces can be arranged in cross section on the two outer legs of the U-shape and contact the adjacent connecting regions 22.

[0099] The hollow chambers 32 can preferably be formed by a bellows portion of the corresponding clamping region 20. The clamping pin 18 can, for example, have multiple, for example two, bellows-shaped hollow chambers 32 arranged one above the other per clamping region 20.

[0100] Preferably the hollow chambers 32 can be connected to each other via at least one connecting channel 34 (see FIG. 5). For example, a connecting channel 34 can be arranged in a lower portion of the clamping pin 18. Another or alternative connecting channel 34 can, for example, be arranged in an upper portion of the clamping pin 18.

[0101] The at least one connecting channel 34 can preferably extend in a ring shape through the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22.

[0102] For example, the connecting channel 34 can extend at a substantially constant distance around a central axis of the clamping pin 18.

[0103] It is possible that a connecting channel 34 connects the pneumatic port 33 of the clamping pin 18 with the hollow chambers 32.

[0104] Preferably, the clamping pin 18 with the bellows-shaped hollow chambers 32 can be additively manufactured entirely from several adjacent material layers of polyamide, PA (e.g., PA12). Accordingly, the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 can preferably be additively manufactured together from the several adjacent layers of polyamide material.

[0105] FIG. 7 to 9 show a modified clamping pin 18′.

[0106] The clamping pin 18′can, for example, have multiple hollow chambers 32, each of which is block-shaped. Preferably, the block shape can essentially have a ring segment shape or a hollow cylinder segment shape.

[0107] Preferably, the clamping pin 18′can be additively manufactured entirely from several adjacent material layers of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Accordingly, the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 can preferably be additively manufactured together from the several adjacent material layers of thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0108] Preferably, the clamping pin 18′does not require a mounting cover 28 for fastening to the roller plate 12.

[0109] FIG. 10 to 12 show a further modified clamping pin 18″.

[0110] The clamping pin 18″ can have an inner core 36. The inner core 36 is preferably sleeve-shaped, as shown, or cylindrical.

[0111] Preferably, the inner core 36 can support the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 from the inside. For example, an outer circumferential face of the inner core 36 can contact an inner circumferential face of the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22.

[0112] Preferably, the inner core 36 can be formed from several adjacent, additively manufactured material layers. A material of the material layers forming the inner core 36 preferably has a greater (e.g., Shore) hardness than a material of the material layers forming the multiple clamping regions 20 and connecting regions 22. For example, the material of the material layers forming the inner core 36 can be thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The material of the material layers forming the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 can be polyamide (PA, e.g., PA12).

[0113] The inner core 36 can, for example, be detachably connected to the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22. For example, the inner core 36 can be detachably connected to the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 via the mounting cover 28.

[0114] For example, a ring-shaped inner collar of the clamping regions 20 and the connecting regions 22 can be clamped between the mounting cover 28 and the inner core 36. The mounting cover 28, in turn, can be screwed to the inner core 36, for example.

[0115] Preferably, an outer circumference of the inner core 36 can define the hollow chambers 32 and / or the at least one connecting channel 34. The hollow chambers 32 can in turn preferably each be block-shaped. Preferably, the block shape can substantially have a ring segment shape or a hollow cylinder segment shape.

[0116] FIG. 13 to 17 show an apparatus 38 for clamping and unwinding a label tape roll for a labeling device.

[0117] For example, the apparatus 38 could be arranged in a robot cell together with a handling robot for loading the apparatus 38 with label tape rolls 10.

[0118] The apparatus 38 has at least one roller plate 12 and at least one clamping pin 18, which is arranged on the roller plate 12 and is preferably detachably fastened to the roller plate 12. Preferably, the apparatus 38 has two units, each consisting of a roller plate 12 and a clamping pin 18.

[0119] For example, the apparatus 38 can have a base plate 40 which is connected to the at least one roller plate 12. The base plate 40 can support at least one roller plate 12, for example, in a rotatable manner.

[0120] The apparatus 38 can, for example, also include a bonding device 42 for bonding tape ends of label tapes.

[0121] As shown in FIG. 14 to 17, the apparatus 38 can have a coupling device 44 for each roller plate clamping pin unit.

[0122] By the coupling device 44, a fluid connection for supplying compressed air to the clamping pin 18 and for removing air from the clamping pin 18 can be coupled or decoupled electively. The compressed air supplied via the fluid connection can flow into the hollow chambers 32 to expand the hollow chambers 32 or be released from the hollow chambers 32 via the fluid connection to depressurize the hollow chambers 32.

[0123] The fluid connection can be connected, for example, to a compressed air source for supplying compressed air to the hollow chambers 32 and to the environment for releasing compressed air from the hollow chambers 32.

[0124] The fluid connection can, for example, run through the roller plate 12 and be connected to the pneumatic port 33 of the clamping pin 18.

[0125] Preferably the coupling device 44 can be arranged below the roller plate 12 (see FIG. 14 to 17). The coupling device 44 may be arranged, for example, on an underside of the base plate 40. For example, the coupling device 44 can be screwed to the base plate 40 from below.

[0126] Alternatively, the coupling device 44 can be arranged radially outside the roller plate 12 (not shown in the figures). The coupling device 44 can then, for example, be mounted on the upper side of the base plate 40. For example, the coupling device 44 can be screwed to the base plate 40 from above.

[0127] The coupling device 44 can be coupled and uncoupled with a connecting piece 46. The connecting piece 46 is preferably arranged to rotate with the roller plate 12. For example, the connecting piece 46 can be arranged on an underside or an outer circumferential side of the roller plate 12.

[0128] Preferably, the roller plate 12 has a receiving chamber on its underside or outer circumference. The connecting piece 46 can be accommodated in the receiving chamber. The connecting piece 46 can, for example, be held in the receiving chamber by a screw connection.

[0129] The coupling device 44 preferably has a retractable and extendable coupling piece 48 for coupling and decoupling the fluid connection. Preferably, the coupling piece 48 can be vertically extended and retracted. Alternatively, the coupling piece 48 can, for example, be retractable and extendable in a horizontal plane (not shown in the figures), for example in a radial direction with respect to a central axis of the roller plate 12.

[0130] The coupling piece 48 can, for example, be extended and retracted pneumatically or by motor. Preferably, the coupling piece 48 can be a piston of a coupling device 44 configured as a pneumatic piston-cylinder unit. The piston-cylinder unit can, for example, be a double-acting piston-cylinder unit. The coupling piece 48 can, in its extended state, make sealed contact with the connecting piece 46 for coupling the fluid connection, for example from below. To seal the coupling, the coupling piece 48 can, for example, have at least one sealing element, such as an O-ring. To decouple (separate) the fluid connection, the coupling piece 48 can be retracted and thus moved away from the connecting piece 46.

[0131] For example, the fluid connection has two fluid channels. Compressed air can be supplied to the pneumatic port 33 and thus to the hollow chambers 32 via a first fluid channel. Control air (compressed air) can be supplied via a second fluid channel to a non-return valve 50 (see FIG. 17) to open the non-return valve 50. With the non-return valve 50 open, compressed air can also be released from the pneumatic port 33 and thus from the hollow chambers 32 via the first fluid channel.

[0132] The non-return valve 50 can, for example, be located in the first fluid channel (see FIG. 17). Preferably the non-return valve 50 can be arranged in the first fluid channel adjacent to the pneumatic port 33.

[0133] The two fluid channels of the fluid connection can run through the coupling piece 48 (see, e.g., FIGS. 15 and 16), through the connecting piece 46 (see, e.g., FIGS. 15, 16 and 17) and, e.g., as hoses or pipes through the roller plate 12 (see, e.g., FIG. 17).

[0134] For example, the coupling device 44 can only couple the fluid connection if the roller plate 12 is in a predefined coupling position (coupling rotation position). Accordingly, for example, the clamping pin 18 can be extended to clamp a label tape roll 10 and the clamping pin 18 can be released to release a label tape roll 10 in the coupling position of the roller plate 12. By contrast, with a decoupled fluid connection, the roller plate 12 can be rotated to unwind the label tape from the label tape roll 10 which is clamped on the clamping pin 18.

[0135] The predefined coupling position can be stored in a control device of a rotary drive 52, which is driven by the roller plate 12. For example, the rotary drive 52 can be a servomotor. The rotary drive 52 can, for example, have an absolute encoder. Immediately before coupling by the coupling device 44, the rotary drive 52 can rotate the roller plate 12 into the coupling position.

[0136] For example, the coupling position can initially be saved as follows. The roller plate 12 can have a receptacle 54 on its outer circumference, e.g., a groove, pocket or through-hole (see, e.g., FIG. 15). The base plate 40 can also have a receptacle 56, e.g., groove, pocket or through-hole (see also FIG. 15). The roller plate 12 can be manually rotated into a position in which the receptacles 54 and 56 are aligned with each other and can be connected to each other, for example, by a pin or a bolt. The receptacles 54 and 56 are arranged in such a way that when they are aligned, the coupling position is assumed. The position of the roller plate 12 set in this way can thus be stored as the coupling position in a control device of the rotary drive 52.

[0137] As an alternative to the coupling device 44, for example, the clamping pin 18 can be supplied with compressed air and relieved using a different technique. For example, the clamping pin 18 could be supplied with compressed air to clamp the label tape roll 10 by a compressed air supply line of a robot carrying the inner gripper 26 (see FIG. 2).

[0138] The invention is not limited to the preferred exemplary embodiments described above. Rather, a plurality of variants and modifications are possible which likewise make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and the features of the dependent claims, irrespective of the claims to which they refer. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the dependent claims are also disclosed and claimable independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the clamping regions of independent claim 1, in particular also without the need to form the multiple clamping regions from several adjacent, preferably additively manufactured, material layers. All ranges specified herein are to be understood as disclosed and claimable in such a way that all values falling within the relevant range are individually disclosed, e.g., also as the relevant preferred narrower outer limits of the relevant range.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS10 label tape roll

[0140] 12 roller plate

[0141] 14 contact face

[0142] 16 grip recess

[0143] 18 clamping pin

[0144] 20 clamping region

[0145] 22 connecting region

[0146] 24 inner clamping jaw

[0147] 26 inner gripper

[0148] 28 mounting cover

[0149] 30 clamping face

[0150] 32 hollow chamber

[0151] 33 pneumatic port

[0152] 34 connecting channel

[0153] 35 guide

[0154] 36 inner core

[0155] 38 apparatus

[0156] 40 base plate

[0157] 42 bonding device

[0158] 44 coupling device

[0159] 46 connecting piece

[0160] 48 coupling piece

[0161] 50 non-return valve

[0162] 52 rotary drive

[0163] 54 receptacle

[0164] 56 receptacle

[0165] 58 robot cell

[0166] 60 robot

[0167] 62 storage space

[0168] 64 label tape buffer

Claims

1. A clamping pin for clamping a label tape roll, wherein the clamping pin has:multiple clamping regions which are arranged distributed around a circumference of the clamping pin for internal clamping of a roll core of the label tape roll,wherein:the multiple clamping regions are formed from several adjacent material layers.

2. The clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein:the multiple clamping regions for internal clamping of the roll core of the label tape roll are actuatable or fluid-actuatable or pneumatically actuatable.

3. The clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein the multiple clamping regions each comprise:a clamping face for contacting an inner circumferential face of the roll core; anda hollow chamber which is arranged internally to the corresponding clamping face and can be subjected to fluid for expansion, in order to move the corresponding clamping face outwards.

4. The clamping pin according to claim 1, further comprising:multiple connecting regions which are arranged distributed around the circumference of the clamping pin in each case between two adjacent clamping regions of the multiple clamping regions and connect these two adjacent clamping regions to each other,wherein:the multiple connecting regions are set back relative to the multiple clamping regions.

5. The clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein:the clamping pin is formed entirely from several adjacent material layers.

6. The clamping pin according to claim 1, further comprising:an inner core which supports the multiple clamping regions.

7. The clamping pin according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the following is met:the inner core is sleeve-shaped;the inner core supports multiple connecting regions of the clamping pin from the inside;the inner core is formed from several adjacent material layers;a material of the material layers forming the inner core has a greater hardness than a material of the material layers forming the multiple clamping regions;the inner core is detachably connected to the clamping regions; andan outer circumferential face of the inner core limits hollow chambers of the clamping regions and at least one ring-shaped connecting channel of the clamping pin (18).

8. An apparatus for clamping and unwinding a label tape roll for a labeling device, wherein the apparatus comprises:a roller plate for unwinding the label tape roll; anda clamping pin according to claim 1, which is arranged for clamping the label tape roll to the roller plate.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising:a coupling device which is configured to couple and uncouple a fluid connection for supplying compressed air to the clamping pin or for removing air from the clamping pin.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the following is met:the coupling device is arranged below or radially outside the roller plate;the fluid connection runs in sections through the roller plate;the coupling device is arranged for coupling to and decoupling from a connecting piece which is arranged in or on the roller plate for rotation with the roller plate;the coupling device has a retractable and extendable coupling piece for coupling and decoupling the fluid connection;the coupling device is pneumatically driven or motor-driven;the fluid connection has a non-return valve; anda rotary drive, which is connected to the roller plate in a driving manner, is configured to rotate the roller plate into a predefined coupling position in which the fluid connection can be coupled by the coupling device.

11. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein:the roller plate has a contact face for contacting the label tape roll; andthe contact face has at least one grip recess for gripping the label tape roll from below.

12. A method for handling a label tape roll, wherein the method comprises:clamping the label tape roll by a clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein the multiple clamping regions clamp a roll core of the label tape roll from the inside.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the method further comprises at least one of:rotating a roller plate into a predefined coupling position and, in the coupling position, coupling a fluid connection by a coupling device for supplying compressed air to the clamping pin to clamp the label tape roll or for releasing compressed air from the clamping pin to release the label tape roll;transferring the, label tape roll to the clamping pin an inner gripper, the internal clamping jaws of which clamp the roll core of the label tape roll from the inside and, during transfer, dip into gaps between the clamping regions; andtaking over the label tape roll from the clamping pin by an inner gripper, the internal clamping jaws of which clamp the roll core of the label tape roll from the inside and, during takeover, dip into gaps between the clamping regions.

14. A method for producing a clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises:additive manufacturing of the clamping pin and at least one of the multiple clamping regions.

15. A computer program product having instructions causing an additive manufacturing apparatus to:produce a clamping pin (18) according to claim 1, in a plurality of material layers in an additive manufacturing method.

16. The clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein at least one of:the clamping pin is for clamping a label tape roll on a roller plate;the material lavers are additively manufactured; andthe material lavers are PA material layers or TPU material lavers.

17. The clamping pin according to claim 1, wherein the multiple clamping regions each comprise:a clamping face, profiled and / or cylindrical jacket segment-shaped, for contacting an inner circumferential face of the roll core; anda hollow chamber which is arranged internally to the corresponding clamping face and can be subjected to fluid for expansion, in order to move the corresponding clamping face outwards;wherein at least one of the following is met:the hollow chambers are each block-shaped, ring-segment-shaped, hollow-cylindrical-segment-shaped or formed by a bellows portion of the corresponding clamping region;the hollow chambers are connected to each other via a ring-shaped, connecting channel; andthe hollow chambers can be filled with compressed air via a pneumatic port of the clamping pin.

18. The clamping pin according to claim 1, further comprising:multiple connecting regions which are arranged distributed around the circumference of the clamping pin in each case between two adjacent clamping regions of the multiple clamping regions and connect these two adjacent clamping regions to each other,wherein:the multiple connecting regions are set back relative to the multiple clamping regions radially inwards,wherein at least one of the following is met:the multiple clamping regions and the multiple connecting regions are integrally formed in one piece;the multiple connecting regions are formed from several adjacent material layers or PA material layers or TPU material layers; andthe multiple connecting regions are solid bodies or have an inner support structure.

19. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein:the roller plate has a contact face, on its upper side, for contacting the label tape roll; andthe contact face has at least one grip recess for gripping the label tape roll from below, wherein at least one of the following conditions is met:the at least one grip recess extends in a radial direction of the roller plate;the at least one grip recess extends to an outer circumference of the roller plate.

20. A method for handling a label tape roll, wherein the method comprises:clamping the label tape roll by a clamping pin of an apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the multiple clamping regions clamp a roll core of the label tape roll from the inside, wherein hollow chambers of the multiple clamping regions are expanded by applying compressed air.

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