Label printer applicator for a conveyor system

Abstract

A method of labeling an asset (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) supported on a conveyor (102, 202, 302, 402, 502) includes printing a label (106), affixing the printed label (106) to an asset (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) at a first location (123a) along the conveyor (102, 202, 302, 402, 502), transporting the asset (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) to a second location (123b) along the conveyor (102, 202, 302, 402, 502), and delivering fluid flow (126a, 226a, 326a, 426a) to one or more regions (106a, 106b, 106c) of the printed label (106) when the asset (104, 204, 304, 404, 504) is transported to the second location (123b) to correct irregularities formed in the label (106).

Description

[0001] LABEL PRINTER APPLICATOR FOR A CONVEYOR SYSTEM

[0002] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0003]

[0001] The present application claims the priority benefits of U.S. patent application serial no. 18 / 480,610, filed on October 4, 2023.

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005]

[0002] The disclosure related generally to label printer applicator systems, and, in particular, to a conveyor system and method for labeling a plurality of assets.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007]

[0003] Distribution centers typically have a conveyor system which is configured to transport assets such as articles or goods, including boxes, containers, pouches, bags, pallets, or the like along a fixed path to an outbound location (e.g. order picking, sortation, packing, shipping, dispatch).

[0008]

[0004] A label printer applicator system configured to print and apply a label to the assets is provided. As the asset travels along the fixed path, the system controller coupled to the label printer applicator system sends an instruction to the label printer applicator system to perform these tasks including print, release, and apply a label to the asset. However, the label being applied to the asset tends to come off while continues to travel along the path thereby causes a jam to the conveyor system. Accordingly, improvements in various operations of the conveyor system, label printer applicator system may be desired.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010]

[0005] A label printer applicator system configured to print and apply a label to the assets is provided.

[0011]

[0006] In one embodiment, a conveyor system for labeling a plurality of assets includes a conveyor for conveying one or more assets and a label printer applicator system located above the conveyor. The label printer applicator system includes a first label applicator module that is configured to print a label and affix the printed label to one or more assets and a second label applicator module that is spaced apart from the first label applicator module. The second label applicator module is configured to deliver fluid flow along a region of the printed label to correct irregularities formed around the region.

[0007] In accordance with a particular embodiment, a conveyor system for labeling a plurality of assets comprises a conveyor for conveying one or more assets and a label printer applicator system located above the conveyor, with the label printer applicator system comprising a first label applicator module configured to print a label and affix the printed label to one or more assets, and a second label applicator module spaced apart from the first applicator module, with the second applicator module configured for delivering a fluid flow to a region of the printed label. The fluid flow may be used to correct irregularities formed on the label, such as wrinkling, misalignments, defects, or curling.

[0012]

[0008] In a particular embodiment the fluid flow comprises an air flow. Moreover, the region to which the fluid flow is supplied may comprise an outer region of the label, one or more edge regions of the label, and / or a center region of the label.

[0013]

[0009] The second label applicator module may comprise a head for delivering the fluid flow. The head may be configured as a single head, a dual head, a swirl air jet head, and / or a sliding head. Still further, the head may comprise a plurality of heads.

[0014]

[0010] In any of the embodiments the system may further comprise a sensing device coupled to one of the first and / or second label applicator modules for detecting one or more assets to be conveyed. Such a sensing device may be configured as a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, and / or a label recognition sensor. The sensing device may be coupled to the second label applicator module for detecting the asset after exiting the first label applicator module [Oil] In a further particular embodiment the system may further comprise a slot opening for receiving the head of the second label applicator, where the head is configured to slide within the slot from a first position to a second position, and return to the first position while the asset is moving in a traveling direction. The head may further slide to a third position while the asset continues to move in the traveling direction.

[0015]

[0012] In accordance with another embodiment, a conveyor system for labeling a plurality of assets comprises a conveyor for conveying one or more assets and a label printer applicator system located above the conveyor, where the label printer applicator comprises a first label applicator module configured to print a label and apply the printed label to one or more assets and a second label applicator module spaced apart from the first label applicator module, the second label applicator module for delivering fluid flow toward the upper side of the printed label to remove irregularities formed on or under the printed label. The irregularities may be air bubbles, air pockets, and / or debris. The fluid flow may be an air flow.

[0016]

[0013] In a particular embodiment the second label applicator module comprises at least one head for delivery of the fluid. The head may be configured as a single head, a dual head, a swirl air jet head, and / or a sliding head.

[0017]

[0014] In any of the embodiments the system may further comprise a sensing device coupled to one of the first and second label applicator modules for detecting one or more assets being conveyed. Such a sensor may comprise one or more of a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, and / or a label recognition sensor, such as a camera. The sensing device may be coupled to the second label applicator module for detecting an asset after exiting the first label applicator module.

[0018]

[0015] In a particular embodiment the head is received in a slot pending with the head configured to slide from a first position to a second position and return to the first position while the asset is moving in a traveling direction, where the head slides to a third position while the asset continues to move in the traveling direction.

[0019]

[0016] In accordance with yet another embodiment, a method of labeling an asset supported on a conveyor comprises printing a label, affixing the printed label to an asset at a first location along the conveyor, transporting the asset to a second location along the conveyor, and delivering a fluid flow to at least a region of the printed label when the asset is transported to the second location for correcting irregularities formed in the label as applied to the asset.

[0020]

[0017] In particular embodiments the fluid flow comprises an air flow, where the air flow may be provided by one or more nozzles or heads.

[0021]

[0018] The step of delivering the fluid flow to at least a region of the applied label may comprise delivering fluid at an upper side of the label or at an outer region of the label, an inner region of the label and / or edge regions of the label. Still further, delivering the fluid flow to at least a region of the label may further comprises swirling the fluid as it is delivered to the region of the printed label.

[0022]

[0019] In accordance with still a further embodiment, a label printer applicator system for positioning adjacent a conveyor comprises a label applicator module having a housing and a head supported relative to the housing, with the head being configured to direct air flow to at least a region of a label positioned below the label applicator module to correct irregularities formed at or around the region of the label. In a particular embodiment the head is configured to direct air to an outer region of the label. Such a head may comprise a nozzle, an air knife blower, or a fan.

[0023]

[0020] Embodiments of the disclosure include a label printer applicator system for a conveyor system configured to implement artificial intelligence (“AI”) / machine learning (“ML”), deep learning, reinforcement learning or other machine learning techniques employing neural networks to learn irregularities and perform one or more tasks. In one such implementation, the AL / ML includes one or more untrained or pre-trained AI / ML models.

[0024]

[0021] The present invention provides an effective way for applying labels to assets being conveyed on a conveyor system to prohibit irregularities in the label, such as wrinkles and the like, and thereby promote the placement and accuracy of the label. These and other objects, advantages, purposes and features of this invention will become apparent upon review of the following specification in conjunction with the drawings.

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026]

[0022] Below, exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are described in detail with reference to the figures.

[0027]

[0023] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure;

[0028]

[0024] FIG IB is a side elevation view of the conveyor and the integrated label printer applicator system of FIG. 1 A with first and second label applicator modules;

[0029]

[0025] FIG. 1C is an enlarged bottom plan view of the second applicator module illustrating the arrangement of the heads of the second applicator of FIG. IB;

[0030]

[0026] FIG. ID is an enlarged side view of the second applicator module illustrating the operation of the second applicator module of the integrated label printer applicator system;

[0027] FIG. IE is a perspective view of the conveyor system illustrating the operation of the second applicator module of the integrated label printer applicator system according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure;

[0031]

[0028] FIG IF is a side elevation view of the conveyor and the integrated label printer applicator system of FIG. IE;

[0032]

[0029] FIG. 1G is an enlarged bottom plan view of the second label applicator module illustrating the arrangement of the heads of the second label applicator module of FIG. IE;

[0030] FIG. 1H is an enlarged side elevation view of the second label applicator module of FIG. IF illustrating the discharging of air to a label shown apart from the asset;

[0033]

[0031] FIG. II is a perspective view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0034]

[0032] FIG. 1 J is a side elevation view of the conveyor and the integrated label printer applicator system of FIG. II;

[0035]

[0033] FIG. IK is an enlarged bottom plan view of the second label applicator module of Fig. 1J;

[0036]

[0034] FIG. IL is a side elevation view of the second label applicator module of FIG. 1J discharging air to a label shown apart from the asset;

[0037]

[0035] FIG. IM is a perspective view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0038]

[0036] FIG. IN is a side elevation view of the conveyor and the integrated label printer applicator system of FIG. IM;

[0039]

[0037] FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of the second label applicator module of FIG. IN;

[0040]

[0038] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure;

[0041]

[0039] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure;

[0042]

[0040] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure;

[0043]

[0041] FIG.4B is a side elevation view of the conveyor and the integrated label printer applicator system of FIG. 4A;

[0044]

[0042] FIG. 4C is perspective view to FIG. 4A illustrating the movement of the head;

[0045]

[0043] FIG. 4D is a similar view to FIG. 4B illustrating the movement of the head;

[0046]

[0044] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a conveyor system with an integrated label printer applicator system according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure;

[0047]

[0045] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of another head mounting arrangement;

[0048]

[0046] FIG. 7A is an enlarged perspective view of yet another embodiment of a head mounting arrangement;

[0049]

[0047] FIG. 7B is a side view of the head mounting arrangement of FIG. 7 A;

[0050]

[0048] FIG. 7C is a similar view to FIG. 7A illustrating the movement of the head; and

[0049] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a method in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052]

[0050] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in the following written specification. It is understood that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. It is further understood that the present disclosure includes any alternations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and includes further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0053]

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1A and IB, a conveyor system 100 with an integrated label printer applicator (“LPA”) system 120 according to one embodiment of the disclosure is depicted. The conveyor system 100 includes a conveyor defining a conveyor path 102, such as formed by a conveyor belt, an array of conveyor rollers, or the like, which is arranged to form a continuous, fixed path. In some implementations, the conveyor system 100 may include two or more conveyor belts that are arranged side-by-side, parallel, perpendicular, offset, or positioned with one belt above the other belt. The conveyor system 100 is configured to transport a plurality of assets 104 along the conveyor path 102, where the assets may be articles or goods such as boxes, containers, pouches, bags, pallets, or the like. A workstation (not shown) is arranged along the conveyor path 102. The workstation may include automated machines, such as robots, robot arms, humanoids, quadruped robots, or the like, to perform one or more tasks in relation to the assets 104 as the assets travel along the conveyor path 102 and / or pass by the workstation. The assets 104 may have various shapes, sizes, heights, and weights and as noted may be variously configured with each having one or more items contained therein.

[0054]

[0052] The label printer applicator system 120 is positioned with respect to the conveyor path such that the label printer applicator system 120 can interact with the assets 104 as the assets 104 travel in the direction of conveyor path travel. As illustrated, the label printer applicator system 120, or at least portions thereof, is mounted or located above the conveyor path 102 and is communicatively coupled to the workstation, such as via a wired or wireless connection. In one embodiment, the label printer applicator system 120 may be communicatively coupled to a controller 150 either wired or wirelessly. A network cable 160a configured for receiving and / or transmitting data over the network 160 is communicatively connected to the controller 150, the label printer applicator system 120, an external computing device (not shown), or the like, or combinations thereof using suitable protocols for the installed environment. A series of computer-implemented instructions or computer executable instructions stored in memory (not shown) may be transmitted to the label printer applicator system 120 from the workstation and / or controller 150 to perform one or more tasks or actions, such as activating, controlling, affixing, printing, scanning, classifying, detecting, blowing, curing, heating, and / or transporting, as well as any other suitable tasks for the system 100. One or more memories may be integrated into the controller 150, the network 160, the conveyor system 100, the label printer applicator system 120, and combinations thereof.

[0055]

[0053] As shown in FIG. 1 A and FIG. IB, the label printer applicator system 120 includes a first label applicator module 122a at a first location 123a and a second label applicator module 122b at a second location 123b, where the locations 123a, 123b are spaced apart from each other with location 123b being downstream from location 123a relative to the conveyance direction. In one embodiment, both the modules 122a, 122b receive instruction from one of the workstation or the controller 150. In another embodiment, the module 122a receives a first instruction or first set of instructions from the workstation, and the module 122b receives a second instruction or set of instructions from the controller 150. In a further embodiment, first and second sets of instructions may be sent to the modules 122a, 122b via the controller 150, which may be remotely located elsewhere or outside a facility (such as a distribution center, storage facility, a supply chain center, a manufacturing facility, a warehouse facility, or the like). The first set of instructions may be either similar to or different from the second set of instructions. Additional sets of instructions other than the first and second sets of instructions may be transmitted to modules 122a, 122b by any suitable method of transmission. In the illustrated embodiment, the first label applicator module 122a is a label printer applicator, and the second label applicator module 122b is a fluid label applicator.

[0056]

[0054] As the asset 104 travels in the direction Pl of conveyor path travel, the first label printer applicator module 122a is activated and begins to print a label 106 that corresponds to the asset 104. In one embodiment, a head 124 of the first label printer applicator module 122a performs a process on a center or middle portion 106a on the label 106 to affix the label 106. The asset 104 continues to travel in the direction P2 of the conveyor belt travel until it is about to reach the second label applicator module 122b. Unlike the first label applicator module 122a, the second label applicator module 122b includes at least one head 126 that is arranged to apply or provide a curing process on a predetermined layout of the label 106. The curing process, as illustrated, is the use of air. Optionally, fluid label applicator module 122b includes a housing 125 with a wall 125a facing the conveyor and the label, which supports head or heads 126. For example, each head 126 may comprise a nozzle, an air knife blower, a fan, or the like which is mounted in an interior of housing 125 defined by wall 125a 125. In some embodiments, an air supply 127 (FIG. IB), such as a compressed air supply, a compressor or fan, may be connected with housing 125. In some implementations, the head 124 may perform multiple processes in a single process or step, such as affixing and curing processes, and therefore the head 126 or the second label applicator module 122b becomes redundant. In some implementations, the modules 122a, 122b may determine instructions for processing the affixing and curing respectively based in part on the one or more attributes such as asset type, size, weight, layout or other characteristics. For example, the modules 122a, 122b may utilize one or more AI / ML models to learn and determine the one or more attributes of the assets 104.

[0057]

[0055] In one embodiment, the predetermined layout is formed by leading and trailing edges 106b of label 106 wherein air flows through the head or heads 126 to impinge on the edges 106b to firmly affix the label 106 to the asset 104, as depicted in FIGS. 1C and ID.

[0058]

[0056] In another embodiment of the second label applicator module, the predetermined layout is opposed longitudinal edges 106c of the label 106. As the asset 104 travels along in the direction P2 and below the second label applicator module 122b, the air 126a flows through the heads 126 and impinges on the longitudinal edges 106c to affix the label 106 to the asset 104, as understood from FIG. 1H and the layout of the heads illustrated in 1G.

[0059]

[0057] In yet another embodiment of the second label applicator module, the heads 126 are arranged to direct air onto a predetermined layout that includes the leading and trailing edges 106b and longitudinal edges 106c of label 106 to effectively extend around the circumference of the label 106. Air flow 126a through the heads 126 impinges on the circumference and affixes the label 106 to the asset 104 as understood from FIG. IL and the layout of the heads 126 as illustrated in FIG. IK. The label 106 may have a substantially square, or otherwise rectangular, shape with somewhat rounded corners.

[0058] In one embodiment of the second label applicator module, the predetermined layout includes leading and trailing (lateral) edges 106b and a central portion 106a of label 106 and wherein air flow through the heads 126 impinges on the edges 106b, as well as the central portion 106a of label 106, to firmly affix the label 106 to the asset 104, as understood from the layout of heads 126 depicted in FIG. 10.

[0060]

[0059] In some implementations, the label 106 may be substantially round, circular, oval, shape without edges, sides, and / or corners. Although use of an airflow process is performed and illustrated as above, other processes such as heating, exposure to light, and / or use of a catalyst may be performed on the label 106 without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0061]

[0060] In one example, one or both label applicator modules 122a, 122b may be configured to facilitate and / or implement artificial intelligence learning / machine learning (AI / ML) and may include one or more untrained or pre-trained AI / ML models. The one or both label applicator modules 122a, 122b may be configured to implement deep learning, reinforcement learning, or other machine learning techniques that use neural networks to learn irregularities and perform one or more tasks which will be described below.

[0062]

[0061] FIG. 2 shows a second label printer applicator system 220 with a second label applicator module 222b in which head 226 comprises a dual head. For exemplary details of the first label applicator module of label printer applicator system 220, reference is made to the first embodiment. Unlike from a single head (where a single stream of airflow is provided) air flow 226a from head 226 is divided into two air streams in which the two air streams are discharged so as to flow at angles with respect to each other so as to be directed away from each other, such as in generally opposite directions, from the dual head 226, with each stream of air 226a that is emitted from the dual head 226 being preferably substantially at an offset angle to the direction in which the air flow passes through at least part of an interior passageway (not shown) of head 226. As can be seen, the streams of air flow 226a emitted from the dual head 226 are targeted and projected onto opposed portions of the label 206 so that the airflow impinges evenly on to and affixes the label 206 firmly to the asset 204, such as a box, as the asset 204 travels along in the direction P2 of conveyor belt travel. For example, the air flows 226a may be actuated when the asset 204 has moved into a desired position beneath the dual head 226.

[0063]

[0062] FIG. 3 depicts a third label printer applicator system 320 with a second label applicator module 322b in which a head 326 comprising a swirl air jet head is provided. For exemplary details of the first label applicator module of label printer applicator system 320, reference is made to the first embodiment. Unlike from the previous heads 126, 226, head 326 creates a concentrated jet of air 326a as it leaves the head 326 enabling a more targeted, effective air force impinged on label 306 and pushes air bubbles beneath the label 306 radially outwards from the point of impingement, thus, firmly and evenly affixing the label 306 onto the asset 304.

[0064]

[0063] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D depict a fourth label printer applicator system 420 with a second label applicator module 422b which includes a head 426 that is configured to slide. For exemplary details of the first label applicator module of label printer applicator system 420, reference is made to the first embodiment. Second label applicator module 422b includes a housing 425 with a slotted opening 425c for receiving head 426. Head 426 may be initially mounted in slotted opening 425c at an intermediate position along slotted opening 425c, whose longitudinal dimension allows for head 426 to travel back and forth along the slotted opening 425c. As the asset 404 travels in a direction P of (FIG. 4A) the conveyor belt, head 426 of the second label applicator module 422b is activated and travels forward within the slotted opening 425c until it reaches end wall 425b of the slotted opening 425c and then travels backward until it reaches opposite end wall 425a of the slotted opening 425 before it returns to the original position or standby position. Air flows 426a through the head 426 and impinges on the label 406 evenly to affix the label 406 while the head 426 travels in the forward-back-forward direction.

[0064] Although the overall travel distance of the head within the slot opening 425c is set, it is possible to adjust the overall travel distance according to the length or shape of the label. In one embodiment, the overall travel distance is 30% longer than the length of the label, 50% longer than the length of the label, 70% longer than the length of the label, 10% shorter than the length of the label, 30% shorter than the length of the label, or any suitable overall travel distance to accommodate the various design configurations without departing the scope of the disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 5 depicts a fifth label printer applicator system 520 with a second label applicator module 522b. Second label applicator module 522b includes a housing 525, which supports at least one head 526, and a sensing device 532. For exemplary details of the first label applicator module of label printer applicator system 520, reference is made to the first embodiment. The sensing device 532 can include a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, or the like. The proximity sensor can detect when the asset 504 is within a close proximity of the second label applicator module 522b and generates a signal, such as an analog signal based on the proximity of the detected asset 504 to the sensing device 532. The sensing device 532 can include an ultrasonic motion sensor, a microwave motion sensor, or any motion-sensing technology. When the asset 504 moves in front of the second label printer applicator module 522b, sensing device 532 can detect the motion and can generate for example, a binary value, an analog value, or digital value that indicates for example, the asset 504 has been detected, a change in an ultrasonic measurement, or a change in a microwave measurement. In one embodiment, the sensing device 532 is positioned between the first and second label applicator modules 122a, 522b. In another embodiment, the sensing device 532 is positioned before the first label printed applicator module 122a. In yet another embodiment, the sensing device 532 is integrated into the second label printed applicator module 522b.

[0065]

[0066] The controller 550 can periodically monitor the state of the sensing device 532 of the second label applicator module 522b at predefined intervals. In response to the detected asset 504, the head 526 is activated and performs a curing process on the label 506 to affix the rest of the label 506.

[0066]

[0067] In some implementations, a sensor 107 (FIG. IB), such as a label recognition sensor or a profile sensor or a vision sensor, or the like, may be provided for detecting whether the label 106, 206, 306, 406, 506 is firmly affixed to the asset 104, 204, 304, 304, 404, 504. In another example, the sensor 107 may detect other irregularities, such as, bumps caused by air bubbles, air pockets, or debris beneath the label 106, 206, 306, 406, 506. The irregularities may further be wrinkling, misalignments, defects, curling on sides or edges, or the like of the label 106, 206, 306, 406, 506. The second label applicator modules 122b, 222b, 322b, 422b, 522b, may act as reinforcement modules to remove or eliminate irregularities via performing a process on the label 106, 206, 306, 406, 506.

[0067]

[0068] In some implementations, the controller receives data about irregularities from LPA system 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 that executes an AI / ML model (e.g. trained via supervised, unsupervised, or Al learning process) that are detected by one or more sensors of the LPA system 120, 220, 320, 420, 520. The AI / ML model may be previously trained by another system, controller, device, and / or network which may exist on-premises or off-premises such as cloud, hybrid computing environment, or any suitable computing environment, and then deployed to the LPA system 120, 220, 320, 420, 520. Alternatively, the AI / ML model may be trained by existing system 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, controller 150, device, and / or network 160 on the fly and then deployed to the LPA system 120, 220, 320, 420, 520.

[0068]

[0069] In some implementations, the second label applicator module may comprise a mechanical device that is moved into and out of engagement with the respective label, such as low friction bearing surfaces, such as rollers, which are moved toward or away from the respective label 106. Still further, fluid flow devices may be employed, such as heads 626 and 726 as shown in FIGS.

[0069] 6 and 7A - 7B.

[0070]

[0070] Optionally, as best seen in FIG. 6, head 626 may be supported over the packages and labels by a mount 625. Mount 625 may comprise a bracket 626a, such as a channel shaped bracket, with slotted openings 625c formed in its vertical webs 625b so that head 626 can be raised or lowered via an actuator (not shown) toward the label to apply air or apply pressure to the label. In its mechanical form, head 626 may include a roller to engage the label. In its pneumatic form, head 626 may include a nozzle, a knife blower, a fan, or the like.

[0071]

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 7A-7C, head 726 is similarly mounted so that it moves toward or away from label 106. In this embodiment, head 726 is also supported by a mount 725 above the asset 104 and label 106. Mount 725 may comprise a bracket 725a with an articulatable arm 725b that supports head 726. Articulatable arm 725b may be moved, for example, by an actuator 725c that extends and contracts to move head 726 from a first position to a second position where head 726 is moved closer to label 106 or in contact with label 106. For example, in the illustrated embodiment actuator 725c pivots articulatable arm 725b.

[0072]

[0072] In its mechanical form, head 726 may include a low friction bearing surface, such as roller. In its pneumatic form, head 726 may include a nozzle, an air knife blower, a fan, or the like.

[0073]

[0073] In each of the above fluid-based label applicator modules, the heads may each comprise a nozzle, an air knife blower, a fan, or the like. In the case of a fan or blower, the fan or blower may be controlled by the controller. In the case of a nozzle or air knife blower, the head of the label applicator module may be in fluid communication with a pneumatic system that delivers air to the head, which is controlled by the controller. For example, the pneumatic system may include an air delivery device, such as a blower or a pump, which delivers air to the respective heads (126) via conduits, such as tubing or hoses. In the case of air knife blowers, the pneumatic system may deliver compressed air to the blower. For example, the pneumatic system may include a plenum, which is in fluid communication with the air delivery device and the heads, or a manifold, which is in fluid communication with the air delivery device and the heads, where air is delivered to each head so that the air to the respective heads may be individually controlled.

[0074] Label printer applicator systems in accordance with the disclosure, such as LPA systems 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, may be utilized in both high-rate as well as low-rate conveyance systems. For example, a high-rate system may be used for assets such as boxes whereas a low- rate system may be used with pallets where the pallets are loaded with goods such as contained in boxes or bags or the like and may optionally be banded or wrapped.

[0074]

[0075] With reference to FIG. 8, a method of applying a label to an asset is schematically illustrated, which may include affixing the label, curing the label, and correcting irregularities of the affixed label as required. At step 810, a control system comprising a network 160 may monitor assets such as packages with regard to specifics of the assets on the conveyor system, including their location on the conveyor system, the destination of the assets, shapes of the assets and label locations for the assets, where the network 160 is in communication with controller 150, where control system may also comprise controller 150. At step 820 instructions are provided to a first and / or second label applicator module, where each module may comprise a controller or a microprocessor such as for controlling respective heads of the modules. At step 830 the first and / or second label applicator modules operate per the provided instructions. Optionally, as illustrated at step 840, label data information may be provided to the control system, such as to the controller 150 or network 160 regarding labels applied to assets, such as for adjusting the control of the first and / or second applicator modules. Such label data information may be provided by sensors 107 associated with the label printer applicator system 120 or conveyor system 100.

[0075]

[0076] The controller, the controller module, PLC, WES described with reference to the figures herein may generally comprise a processor configured to perform computations and control the functions of the system, including executing instructions included in computer code for the tools and programs capable of implementing methods for managing storage systems of a warehouse for order fulfillment, in accordance with some embodiments, wherein the instructions of the computer code may be executed by the processor via a memory device or memory module. The computer code may include software or program instructions that may implement one or more algorithms for implementing one or more of the foregoing methods. The controller, the controller module, PLC, WES executes the computer code can be any processor such as a vision processing unit (VPU), a Tensor processing unit (TPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a general purpose core processor, a graphical processing unit (GPU), a computer processing unit (CPU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an artificial intelligence - application specific integrated circuit (Al- ASIC), a microprocessor, an AI / ML processing unit, a crypto-processor unit, an neural processing unit, a cognitive computing unit, a silicon-on-chip, a graphene-on-chip, a neural network-on-chip, a neuromorphic chip (NeuRRAM), a system on a chip (SoC), a system- in-package (SIP) configuration, either single-core or multi-core processor, or any suitable combination of components. Other purpose-built processor suitable for Al and Internet-of- Things (loT) computing may also be suitable for the above-described systems. A virtual processor can be formed as a portion of the controller, the controller module, PLC, WES.

[0076]

[0077] The memory device or memory module may include input data. The input data includes any inputs required by the computer code. The output device displays output from the computer code. A memory device may be used as a computer usable storage medium (or program storage device) having a computer-readable program embodied therein and / or having other data stored therein, wherein the computer-readable program comprises the computer code. Generally, a computer program product (or, alternatively, an article of manufacture) of the system may comprise said computer usable storage medium (or said program storage device).

[0077]

[0078] The network may include wired communication, wireless communication, or combination thereof. Wireless communication can include, but not limited to, wireless local area network (WLAN), a wireless wide area network, local area network (LAN), personal area network (PAN), a cloud-based network, public network (e.g. the Internet), private network (e.g. frame-relay network), cable network, short and long range radio and wireless communication protocols, such as Bluetooth, low energy Bluetooth, zigbee, infrared, and radio frequency, a wireless fidelity network (WiFi), ultra-wide band (UWB), a wireless mesh network, a cellular network, a satellite network, mobile ad-hoc network (MANET), long term evolution (LTE) network, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), universal mobile telecommunication system, (UMTS), and the like, or any combination suitable for the environment.

[0078]

[0079] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the disclosure may be a computer program product. Any of the components of the embodiments of the disclosure can be deployed, managed, serviced, etc. by a service provider that offers to deploy or integrate computing infrastructure with respect to embodiments of the inventive concepts. Thus, an embodiment of the disclosure discloses a process for supporting computer infrastructure, where the process includes providing at least one support service for at least one of integrating, hosting, maintaining and deploying computer-readable code (e.g., program code) in a computer system including one or more processor(s), wherein the processor(s) carry out instructions contained in the computer code causing the computer system for generating a technique described with respect to embodiments. In another embodiment, the disclosure discloses a process for supporting computer infrastructure, where the process includes integrating computer-readable program code into a computer system including a processor.

[0079]

[0080] Aspects of the disclosures are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-readable program instructions.

[0080]

[0081] These computer-readable program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks. These computer- readable program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an article of manufacture including instructions which implement aspects of the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0081]

[0082] The computer-readable program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0082]

[0083] The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware -based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0083]

[0084] It will be appreciated that numerous variations to the above-mentioned approaches are possible. Variations to the above approaches may, for example, include performing the above steps in a different order.

[0084]

[0085] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of are not restrictive on the broad disclosure, and that this disclosure is not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. The description is thus to be regarded as illustrative instead of limited.

Claims

CLAIMSThe embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1. A conveyor system for labeling a plurality of assets, said conveyor system comprising: a conveyor for conveying one or more assets; and a label printer applicator system located above the conveyor comprising: a first label applicator module configured to print a label and affix the printed label to one or more assets; and a second label applicator module spaced apart from the first applicator module, wherein the second applicator module is configured to deliver a fluid flow along an outer region of the printed label to correct irregularities formed around the outer region.

2. The conveyor system of claim 1 wherein the irregularities comprises at least one of wrinkling, misalignments, defects, or curling.

3. The conveyor system of claim 1 wherein the second label applicator module comprises a head for delivering the fluid flow.

4. The conveyor system of claim 3 wherein the head comprises at least one of a head selected from the group consisting of a single head, a dual head, a swirl air jet head, and a sliding head.

5. The conveyor system of claim 4 further comprising a sensing device coupled to one of the first and second label applicator modules for detecting one or more assets to be conveyed.

6. The conveyor system of claim 5 wherein the sensing device comprises at least one of a sensor selected from the group consisting of a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, and a label recognition sensor.

7. The conveyor system of claim 5 further comprising a slot opening for receiving the head, wherein the head is configured to slide from a first position to a second position, and return tothe first position while the asset is moving in a traveling direction, wherein the head slides to a third position while the asset continues to move in the traveling direction.

8. The conveyor system of claim 7, wherein the sensing device is coupled to the second label applicator module for detecting the asset after exiting the first label applicator module.

9. The conveyor system of claim 1, wherein the fluid flow comprises an air flow.

10. A conveyor system for labeling a plurality of assets, said conveyor system comprising: a conveyor for conveying one or more assets; and a label printer applicator system located above the conveyor comprising: a first label applicator module configured to print a label and apply the printed label to one or more assets; and a second label applicator module spaced apart from the first label applicator module, wherein the second label applicator module is configured to deliver a fluid flow toward the upper side of the printed label to remove irregularities formed on or under the printed label.

11. The conveyor system of claim 10, wherein the irregularities are selected from a group consisting of air bubbles, air pockets, and debris.

12. The conveyor system of claim 10, wherein the second label applicator module comprises a head for delivery of the fluid.

13. The conveyor system of claim 12, wherein the head comprises at least one head selected from the group consisting of a single head, a dual head, a swirl air jet head, and a sliding head.

14. The conveyor system of claim 13 further comprising a sensing device coupled to one of the first and second label applicator modules for detecting one or more assets being conveyed.

15. The conveyor system of claim 14, wherein the sensing device comprises at least one sensor selected from the group consisting of a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, and a label recognition sensor.

16. The conveyor system of claim 14, further comprising a slot opening for receiving the head, the head is configured to slide from a first position, a second position, and return to the first position while the asset is moving in a traveling direction, wherein the head slides to a third position while the asset continues to move in the traveling direction.

17. The conveyor system of claim 16, wherein the sensing device is coupled to the second label applicator module for detecting the asset after exiting the first label applicator module.

18. The conveyor system of claim 10, wherein the fluid flow comprises an air flow.

19. A method of labeling an asset supported on a conveyor, said method comprising: printing a label; affixing the printed label to an asset at a first location along the conveyor; transporting the asset to a second location along the conveyor; and delivering a fluid flow to at least a region of the printed label when the asset is transported to the second location to correct irregularities formed in the label.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein said delivering the fluid flow to at least a region comprises delivering fluid along an outer region of the label.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein said delivering the fluid flow to at least a region comprises swirling the fluid as it is delivered to at least a region of the printed label.

22. The method according to claim 19, wherein said delivering the fluid flow to at least a region includes delivering fluid to an upper side of the label.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein said delivering a fluid flow comprises delivering an air flow.

24. A label printer applicator system for positioning adjacent a conveyor, said label printer applicator system comprising: a label applicator module having a a housing; and a head supported relative to said housing, and said head being configured to direct air flow to at least a region of a label position below said label applicator module to correct irregularities formed around the region.

25. The label printer applicator system according to claim 24, wherein said head is configured to direct air to an outer region of the label, and optionally the head is selected from the group consisting a nozzle, an air knife blower, and a fan.

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