Machine and method for labelling containers of products of the tobacco industry

Abstract

A machine (1) for labelling containers of products (P) of the tobacco industry, in which each container (C) comprises a bottom wall, a top wall opposite the bottom wall and a side wall which joins the bottom wall and the top wall to each other. The machine comprises: - a conveyor assembly (2) configured to move the containers (C) along a conveying path; - a first labelling device (3), configured to release a label at the side wall of each container (C), - a first manipulating apparatus (7), movable along at least one direction and / or in rotation, configured to pick up a container (C) from the conveyor assembly (2) and to carry said container (C) into the labelling region (8) to allow the label to be applied to the side wall; - a control unit (10) connected to the first apparatus (7) and configured to move it into the labelling region (8) so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container (C).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] MACHINE AND METHOD FOR LABELLING CONTAINERS OF PRODUCTS OF THE TOBACCO INDUSTRY

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to a machine for labelling containers of products of the tobacco industry, in particular, but not limited to labelling containers of bags of loose material (e.g., so-called “snus”).

[0005] In the following of the present description, explicit reference will be made to bags of loose material, without because of this losing in generality, as the product of the tobacco industry can consist of any other product that must be inserted into a relative container.

[0006] Background art

[0007] Labelling machines are known in the field in question, comprising one or more labelling devices and a conveyor, configured to move the containers to be labelled.

[0008] An example of a machine of this type is described in EP0232657.

[0009] In that machine, a label is applied at the top and at the side of a container of axisymmetric geometry. Note that, in that machine, the application of the side label provides causing the container to rotate in the conveyor.

[0010] It is clear that the machine in EP0232657 is not capable of operating with containers of a different shape other than cylindrical. In fact, the application of the side label provides the rotation of the container with respect to the axis of symmetry, this rotation would not be effective in the case of non-axisymmetric geometries.

[0011] If the container had different types of geometries (e.g., a square section) said machine would not allow proper labelling.

[0012] One need, which is particularly felt in the sector in question is that of allowing the label to be applied to containers also having a different shape than the cylindrical shape, i.e., axisymmetric. Object of the invention

[0013] Thus, it is the object of the present invention to meet the above need, i.e., to provide a labelling machine and method, which are particularly flexible, in particular as regards the possibility of working with containers having the most varied types of geometries.

[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a labelling machine and method, which do not require complicated adaptations or lengthy times for the format change from one container to another.

[0015] Brief description of the drawings

[0016] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following indicative and thus non-limiting description of a preferred, but non-exclusive, embodiment of a labelling machine, as shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] - figure 1 shows a plan view of a machine according to the invention;

[0018] - figures from 2 to 3 show respective perspective views of the machine according to figure 1 ;

[0019] - figures 4, 5, 6, 7A, 7B and 8 show enlarged details of the machine with reference to figures 1 -3;

[0020] - figures 9 to 12 show a variant of a detail, respectively, relating to the inlet of the machine shown in the preceding figures, according to different viewpoints;

[0021] - figure 13 is a detail of the machine with reference to the preceding figures;

[0022] - figure 14 shows a perspective view of a variant of a detail of the machine, with reference to the preceding figures;

[0023] - figures 15 and 16 show a perspective view of a variant of a detail of the machine, with reference to the preceding figures.

[0024] A labelling machine of the present invention is denoted with reference numeral 1 . Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

[0025] Note that the machine 1 is capable of labelling the most varied types of containers C of products P of the tobacco industry.

[0026] Preferably, but without limitation, the products P of the tobacco industry consist of bags of loose material. The loose material can be a tobacco- and / or a nicotine-based material. In other words, the products P are preferably the so-called “snus.”

[0027] Said products P are inserted into containers C. Each container C comprises a bottom wall, a top wall opposite (and preferably parallel) to the bottom wall and a side wall which joins the bottom wall and the top wall to each other.

[0028] Said containers C preferably comprise a containment body defining a containment chamber, inside which the products P are arranged, and a cover which is coupleable to the containment body.

[0029] The labelling machine 1 for containers C of products P of the tobacco industry comprises:

[0030] - a conveyor assembly 2 configured to move the containers C of products P of the tobacco industry along a conveying path;

[0031] - a first labelling device 3, located in a labelling region 8 and configured to release a label at the side wall of each container C,

[0032] - a first manipulating apparatus 7, movable along at least one direction and / or in rotation, located along the conveying path and configured to pick up a container C from the conveyor assembly 2 and to carry said container C into the labelling region 8 to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container C.

[0033] According to another aspect, the control unit 10 is connected to said first manipulating apparatus 7 to move the first manipulating apparatus 7 into the labelling region 8 so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container C.

[0034] The control unit 10 is preferably connected to said first manipulating apparatus 7 to move the first manipulating apparatus 7 based on information regarding the shape of the container C.

[0035] According to another aspect, the control unit 10 is connected to said conveyor assembly 2 to actuate it.

[0036] According to another aspect, the first manipulating apparatus 7 is preferably a robot (preferably of the delta type).

[0037] According to another aspect, the machine 1 comprises a memory 9 containing information regarding a shape of the container C and / or regarding a movement trajectory of said first manipulating apparatus 7 (based on the shape of the container C), and the control unit 10 is configured to move the manipulating apparatus 7 based on the information present in said memory 9.

[0038] According to another aspect, the machine 1 comprises an image capturing device 43, connected to the control unit 10 to send information relating to the images captured.

[0039] Note that the control unit 10 is configured for:

[0040] - processing said images;

[0041] - deriving information regarding the shape of the container C from said images;

[0042] - calculating a movement trajectory of said first manipulating apparatus 7 based on the shape information derived.

[0043] Note that, advantageously, the control unit 10 can be configured for saving said shape information of the containers C and / or movement trajectory calculated in the memory 9.

[0044] Furthermore, according to another aspect, the machine 1 can comprise a user interface.

[0045] The user interface is connected to the control unit 10, and configured for allowing sending thereto information regarding the shape of the container C.

[0046] According to another aspect, the control unit 10 is configured for commanding said first manipulating apparatus 7 to move it (causing it to translate and / or rotate) into the labelling region 8 while the label is being applied to the side wall of the container C.

[0047] In other words, while the label is being applied to the side wall, the container C is moved along a specific trajectory (which depends on the shape thereof) so that the label is made to adhere to the side wall thereof. Presuming that the label is such as to cover all (or substantially all) the side wall of the container C, it will be moved so as to allow said label to be applied along all (or substantially all) the side wall of said container C. Alternatively, the label could be shorter than the length of the side wall (e.g., a tax stamp). In this case, the machine 1 operates similarly, but it will change the movement trajectory of the first handling apparatus 7.

[0048] Basically, note that, advantageously, according to this aspect, the first manipulating apparatus 7 moves the container C during the labelling step: thus, advantageously, it is possible to apply the label to containers C of any shape since it is simply necessary to change the trajectory of the first manipulating apparatus 7 (and thus of the container C carried thereby), without intervening on the first labelling device 3, in order to correctly apply the label to the side wall of containers C of any shape.

[0049] The machine 1 will now be described with reference to the specific example shown.

[0050] Note that the expression “conveyor assembly” is understood to mean a set consisting of one or more conveyors, which are mutually connected to define the conveying path of the containers C.

[0051] The conveyor assembly 2 comprises an inlet conveyor 12, configured to receive containers C.

[0052] The containers C accumulate on entering the inlet conveyor 12, one after another.

[0053] Said inlet conveyor 12 comprises a belt 13, on which the containers C rest. Note that the belt 13 is preferably a belt of the suction type. Thus, the belt 13 preferably comprises a plurality of holes connected to a suction source. Furthermore, the machine 1 comprises a pair of support guides 14A,14B, configured to laterally guide the containers C advancing along the inlet conveyor 12.

[0054] According to an embodiment shown in figure 4, the machine 1 further comprises a stop element 16 of the fixed type, at a terminal end of the inlet conveyor 12. Furthermore, the machine 1 comprises a camera 17, configured to detect images on the geometry and / or shape of the containers C.

[0055] Note that the camera 17 defines the above image capturing device 43.

[0056] Preferably, the camera 17 is located to capture images of the containers C close to and / or at the inlet conveyor 12.

[0057] Note that the camera 17 is connected to the control unit 10, so as to send the captured images thereto.

[0058] The conveyor assembly 2 comprises an intermediate conveyor 18, configured to receive containers C.

[0059] Preferably, the control unit 10 is connected to the intermediate conveyor 18 to actuate it.

[0060] The control unit 10 preferably actuates the intermediate conveyor 18 at a greater speed than that of the inlet conveyor 12.

[0061] Preferably, the intermediate conveyor 18 comprises a belt 19.

[0062] The belt 19 is preferably a suction belt, i.e., provided with a plurality of depression holes, which retain by suction the containers C resting on the surface of the belt. Note that the machine 1 also comprises a transfer robot 15.

[0063] The transfer robot 15 is preferably a robot of the delta type.

[0064] The robot 15 is preferably provided with a pick-up device, configured to pick up a container C.

[0065] The transfer robot 15 transfers the containers C from the inlet conveyor 12 to the intermediate conveyor 18; in fact, it picks up the containers C close to the stop element 16 and arranges them on the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0066] Note that the control unit 10 is configured to move the robot 15. According to one aspect, the control unit 10 moves the transfer robot 15 based on the information (images) captured by the camera 17.

[0067] Thus, advantageously, upon command of the control unit 10, the transfer robot 15 can orient the container C, e.g., if the container C has orientation elements (incisions, protrusions or other), which need to be in a predetermined position for the successive operations carried out on the container C along the conveying path.

[0068] Note that the control unit 10 is preferably configured to command the movement of the robot 15 so as to release the containers C on the intermediate conveyor 18 according to a predetermined distance (preferably constant for all containers C). Said predetermined distance is preferably 5 to 30 cm.

[0069] A variant of the machine 1 shown in figure 14 will now be described.

[0070] According to a different embodiment, shown in figure 14, the machine 1 comprises a stop element 16’ of the movable type, instead of a stop element 16 of the fixed type.

[0071] Note that, according to the embodiment shown in figure 14, the stop element 16’ of the movable type is located at the intermediate conveyor 18, i.e., overlying the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0072] Preferably, the stop element 16’ is vertically movable between an operating position (lowered), in which it stops the containers C transiting on the conveyor 18, and an operating position (raised), in which it allows the containers C to transit on the conveyor 18.

[0073] Note that the control unit 10 is connected to the movable stop element 16’ to command the movement thereof, so as to allow the movement thereof and allow the containers C to pass on the intermediate conveyor 18. Note that, according to said variant, the machine 1 preferably comprises an orientation robot 15’, operatively active downstream of the movable stop element 16’.

[0074] Said robot 15’ is present in the machine 1 as an alternative to the transfer robot 15. The orientation robot 15’ is preferably a robot of the delta type.

[0075] The orientation robot 15 is preferably provided with a pick-up device, configured to pick up a container C.

[0076] The orientation robot 15’ orients the containers C, picking them up from the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0077] Thus, note that according to said variant, the machine 1 comprises a camera 17’ configured to capture images of the containers C.

[0078] Preferably, the orientation robot 15’ is connected to said camera 17’ and is configured to be commanded as a function of the images captured, so as to orient the container C according to a predetermined geometry.

[0079] According to this embodiment, the intermediate conveyor 18 is preferably a belt of the suction type.

[0080] The control unit 10 is preferably connected to the intermediate conveyor 18 to receive information about the actuation speed of the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0081] Furthermore, preferably, the intermediate conveyor 18 is operated at a constant speed; in said scenario, the control unit 10 commands the movement of the transfer robot 15 so as to release the containers C on the intermediate conveyor 18 according to a predetermined time interval.

[0082] According to another aspect, the machine 1 comprises a pair of counterfacing guides 20A,20B, associated with the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0083] Note that said guides 20A,20B act as side contacts for the container C transiting along the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0084] According to another aspect, the conveyor assembly 2 comprises a conveying unit 21 (clearly visible in figure 6).

[0085] Said conveying unit 21 receives the containers C from the intermediate conveyor 18.

[0086] The conveying unit 21 comprises a pair of lateral conveyors 22A, 22B and a support surface 46 (on which the container C can slide).

[0087] Note that the lateral conveyors 22A, 22B are arranged mutually counterfacing, on opposite sides of the support surface 46. The conveying unit 21 is connected to the control unit 10, to be controlled thereby.

[0088] More precisely, the control unit 10 commands the lateral conveyors 22A, 22B.

[0089] The lateral conveyors 22A, 22B are mutually operable in an independent manner, i.e., with different operating speeds.

[0090] In particular, when needing to rotate a container C with cylindrical geometry, it is possible to actuate the two conveyors 22A, 22B with a predetermined difference in speed with respect to each other.

[0091] Each lateral conveyor 22A, 22B comprises a respective belt.

[0092] Note that each conveyor 22A,22B of the conveying unit 21 is operatively active on one side of the container C.

[0093] Basically, the container C is moved bilaterally by the pair of conveyors 22A,22B of the conveying unit 21 .

[0094] Note that the machine 1 comprises a second labelling device 22 configured to release a label at the top of the container C; thus, said label will form a top label for the container C. In other words, the second labelling device 22 is configured to release the label at the top wall of the container C.

[0095] The top label is preferably applied to the cover of the container C.

[0096] Note that, preferably, the second labelling device 22 is configured and arranged to release the label at a region interested by the conveying unit 21.

[0097] Furthermore, according to another aspect, the machine 1 comprises a third labelling device 23, configured to release a label underneath the container C; said label will thus form a bottom label for the container C. In other words, the third labelling device 23 is configured to release a label at the bottom wall of the container C. The bottom label is preferably applied to the bottom of the container C.

[0098] Note that the third labelling device 23 is preferably configured and arranged to release the label at a region interested by the conveying unit 21.

[0099] Furthermore, it should be noted that the support surface 46 has an interruption, inside of which the third labelling device 23 is inserted (operatively active). Basically, the label is released by the third labelling device 23 on the bottom wall of the container C inside the zone of said interruption of the support surface 46.

[0100] Further aspects relating to the top and bottom labelling (i.e., to the application of the labels on the top wall and on the bottom wall of the container C) will now be described.

[0101] Note that according to one aspect, the machine 1 preferably comprises a sensor 26 configured to detect the arrival of a container upstream (near) the second labelling device 22 (and the third labelling device 23).

[0102] The sensor 26 is preferably connected to the control unit 10.

[0103] The control unit 10 is configured to command (activate) the second labelling device 22 based on the signal of the sensor 26.

[0104] Note that according to one aspect, the machine 1 preferably comprises a sensor 27 configured to detect the arrival of a container upstream (near) the third labelling device 23.

[0105] The sensor 27 is preferably connected to the control unit 10.

[0106] The control unit 10 is configured to command (activate) the third labelling device 23 based on the signal of the sensor 27.

[0107] According to another aspect, the machine comprises a camera 24 for controlling the bottom label, located downstream with respect to the third labelling device 23.

[0108] Note that the expressions “upstream” or “downstream” in the present description both refer to the conveying direction of the containers C in the conveyor assembly 2, i.e., along the conveying path.

[0109] The control unit 10 is preferably connected to the camera 24 for controlling the bottom label for receiving images therefrom; note that the control unit 10 is thus configured to derive, based on said images, information regarding the position and / or quality of the label applied to the container C. Thus, it is instantly possible to successively discard (as will be better described), the containers C having bottom label application defects. Furthermore, according to yet another aspect, the machine 1 comprises a camera 25 for controlling the top label, located downstream with respect to the second labelling device 22.

[0110] The control unit 10 is preferably connected to the camera 25 for controlling the top label for receiving images therefrom; note that the control unit 10 is thus configured to derive, based on said images, information regarding the position and / or quality of the label applied to the container C.

[0111] Thus, it is possible to successively discard (as will be better described), the containers C with top label application defects.

[0112] According to another aspect, the top label can have at least one side tab.

[0113] According to that aspect, the machine 1 further comprises at least one contact element (not shown), located in a predetermined zone of the conveyor assembly 2 (located downstream of the second labelling device 22 along the conveying path) and configured to fold said at least one side tab at the side wall of the container C.

[0114] Said contact element can be a fixed contact element, i.e., arranged in a predetermined spatial position, or a movable contact element, i.e., operable between an inoperative and an operative folding position of said at least one side tab.

[0115] According to an even further aspect, instead of the fixed contact element, the machine 1 comprises a manipulating and folding apparatus (located upstream of the first manipulating apparatus 7) configured to directly fold the side tabs of the label.

[0116] Said manipulating and folding apparatus is defined by a robot, provided with contact members for the side tabs of the label.

[0117] Thus, advantageously, the manipulating and folding apparatus dedicated to the folding is configured to come into contact with the side tabs, and fold the same. Alternatively, said manipulating and folding apparatus could be defined by one or more contact elements. According to one aspect, the machine 1 comprises a vision device 33 located downstream of the contact element and configured to capture images at least of said at least one folded tab.

[0118] According to this aspect, the control unit 10 is connected to said vision device 33 to receive said images and, based on the images, to derive a folding state of said side tabs.

[0119] Note that the control unit 10 is configured to identify a container C as “faulty” if an incorrect folding state of said tab has been derived (i.e., not complying with predetermined criteria).

[0120] According to another aspect, the conveyor assembly 2 comprises a conveying unit 28.

[0121] Preferably, according to a preferred embodiment shown in figures 1 -8, said conveying unit 28 is of the flight type.

[0122] Note that the control unit 10 is operatively connected to the conveying unit 28, to command it.

[0123] The conveying unit 28 with flights comprises a support surface 29, provided with an opening 30.

[0124] Furthermore, the conveying unit 28 with flights comprises a plurality of conveying elements 31 , configured to engage the opening 30.

[0125] The elements 31 are preferably secured to a movable structure 32 (not shown), e.g., to a chain or to a belt.

[0126] The conveying elements 31 each consist of an elongated bar.

[0127] The movable structure 32 defines a ring-like structure.

[0128] Said movable structure 32 is moved along a closed path by means of at least one motorization.

[0129] The conveying elements 31 are located in the movable structure 32, at a predetermined distance.

[0130] According to other solutions, the conveying elements 31 can be movable independently of one another.

[0131] With reference to the passage of the conveyor C from the conveying unit 21 to the conveying unit 28 with flights, the following should be noted. The conveying unit 21 releases the container C at the support surface 29 of the conveying unit 28 with flights.

[0132] According to a variant, shown in figure 15, the conveying unit 28 comprises a movable belt 28’ extending along a closed path (and therefore it is not of the flight-type).

[0133] When the container C is released on the support surface 29, the control unit 10 commands the activation of the conveying unit 28 with flights so that one of the conveying elements 31 , advancing by virtue of the movement of the movable structure 32, engages with the container C resting on the support surface 29.

[0134] The machine 1 preferably comprises a sensor (not shown), configured to detect the passage, or the arrival, of a container C on the conveying unit 28 with flights.

[0135] Note that the previously mentioned contact elements are preferably located at the conveying unit 28 with flights.

[0136] According to another aspect, the machine 1 comprises a discarding device 34.

[0137] The discarding device 34 is preferably associated with the conveyor assembly 2.

[0138] The discarding device 34 is located at said conveying unit 28.

[0139] Note that said discarding device 34 preferably comprises a nozzle connectable to a source of compressed air.

[0140] The nozzle is activated to emit an airflow on a container C, so as to deviate it with respect to the main conveying direction (of the conveyor assembly 2) and allow the discarding thereof.

[0141] The discarding device 34 is connected to the control unit 10. Thus, advantageously, the control unit 10 can discard a faulty container C, e.g., a container to which the label (top and / or bottom and / or the tab) has been applied incorrectly).

[0142] According to another aspect, the machine 1 comprises an additional labelling device 35 configured to release an additional label. That additional label preferably defines a tax stamp.

[0143] That additional label can be applied overlapping one or some of the labels previously applied to the container C or in a portion of the container C where no label has been applied.

[0144] According to another aspect, if the machine 1 comprises the additional labelling device 35, the machine 1 preferably comprises a vision device 37 configured to capture images of at least one portion of the container C comprising the region of the container C where the additional label defining the tax stamp is applied.

[0145] Note that the control unit 10 is connected to said vision device 37 to capture said images and, based on the same, to derive a state of application of the additional label (which can define the tax stamp). According to this aspect, the control unit 10 verifies whether said additional label has been applied correctly or not.

[0146] Also note that the machine 1 comprises a further manipulating apparatus 44 (preferably defined by a robot), configured to pick up the container C from the conveyor assembly 2, in particular from the conveying unit 28 and take it to the additional labelling device 35, to allow the additional label to be applied.

[0147] Said manipulating apparatus 44 is preferably a robot. Even more preferably, said manipulating apparatus 44 is a robot of the delta type.

[0148] Said manipulating apparatus 44 operates similarly to the first manipulating apparatus 7. Therefore, features described with reference thereto are also considered valid with reference to the manipulating apparatus 44.

[0149] Note that according to a particular operating method for machine 1 , it is possible to use the labelling device 35 as the first labelling device 3 and the first manipulating apparatus 7 as the manipulating and folding apparatus for the side tabs.

[0150] According to another aspect, the conveyor assembly 2 comprises an outlet conveyor 38, configured to receive containers C from the conveying unit 28 with flights. Said outlet conveyor 38 is connected to the control unit 10 to be commanded thereby.

[0151] The outlet conveyor 38 is preferably continuously actuated.

[0152] Advantageously, the machine 1 of the invention is particularly simple and flexible in changing the format of the container C.

[0153] In fact, with the format change of the container C, it is easily possible to readapt the machine 1 so that the label can effectively be applied to the side wall of the container C (and possibly also the remaining labels). Advantageously, with the format change of the container C (shape and / or size), in order to apply the label to the side wall thereof, it is sufficient to modify the movement trajectory of the first manipulating apparatus 7 at the labelling region 8.

[0154] The container C can be of any shape: cylindrical, with square section, rectangular, hexagonal, etc.

[0155] According to another aspect, as shown in figures 9-12, the machine 1 comprises a further top labelling device 41 , configured to release a label at the top wall of the container C.

[0156] According to this aspect, the control unit 10 is configured to activate said further top labelling device 41 and the second labelling device 22 alternately.

[0157] Thus, advantageously, the machine 1 has a double top labelling device (i.e., the second labelling device 22 and the further labelling device 41 ). Thus, when the belt 5 of the reel 6 of a labelling device 22, 41 is finished, it is possible to activate the other labelling device 41 ,22 without interrupting the flow of the conveyors C on the conveyor assembly 2. Therefore, the machine 1 allows operating almost continuously, changing the top labelling device in real time.

[0158] According to another aspect, as shown in figures 9-12, the machine 1 comprises a further labelling device 42 configured to release a label at the bottom wall of the container C.

[0159] According to this aspect, the control unit 10 is configured to activate said further labelling device 42 and the third labelling device 23 alternately.

[0160] As previously described with reference to the further labelling device 41 , in this case, too, the machine 1 allows operating almost continuously, changing the bottom labelling device in real time.

[0161] According to another aspect of the present description, a labelling machine 1 (shown in figures 9-12) is defined, comprising:

[0162] - a conveyor assembly 2 configured to move the containers C of products P of the tobacco industry along a conveying path;

[0163] - a first (in the previous description further referred to as) top labelling device 41 configured to release a label at the top wall of the container C;

[0164] - a second labelling device 22 configured to release a label at the top wall of the container C;

[0165] - a third labelling device 23 configured to release a label at the bottom wall of the container C;

[0166] - a fourth (in the previous description further referred to as) labelling device 42 configured to release a label at the bottom wall of the container C;

[0167] - a control unit 10 connected to the first (further) labelling device 41 , to the second labelling device 22, to the third labelling device (23) and to the fourth (further) labelling device 42, to operate them. The control unit 10 is configured to selectively and alternately activate said first (further) labelling device 41 and second labelling device 22, and furthermore, to selectively and alternately activate said third labelling device 23 and fourth (further) labelling device 42.

[0168] Basically, according to this aspect, the machine 1 comprises a pair 41 , 22 of labelling devices and a pair 23, 42 of labelling devices; thus, advantageously, it is possible to change the top and bottom labelling belt 5, without necessarily stopping the machine 1 operation.

[0169] In fact, if the belt 5 of a labelling device 41 is finished, it is possible to use the other labelling device 22.

[0170] Clearly note that, with reference to the labelling devices 41 , 22, they are located in different longitudinal positions of the conveyor assembly 2, i.e., one of the two is downstream of the other.

[0171] Similarly, the labelling devices 42, 23 are located in different longitudinal positions of the conveyor assembly 2, i.e., one of the two is downstream of the other.

[0172] According to another aspect, according to a first embodiment shown in figures 1 -8, each labelling device (3, 35, 22, 23, 41 , 42) comprises:

[0173] - a plurality of directing rollers 4 of a belt 5 comprising a base material 6A and a label 6B applied to said base material 6A;

[0174] - and a release element 11 configured to cause the label 6B to detach from the base material 6A.

[0175] According to another aspect, the release element 11 (figure 13) is shaped to modify the direction of the belt 5, defining an acute angle between the initial direction and the final direction of the belt 5.

[0176] Basically, the release element 11 suddenly modifies the direction of the belt 5: consequently, the label 6B detaches from the base material 6A due to the sudden change in direction of the belt 5.

[0177] Also note that the belt 5 is wound on a reel 6, from which it is unwound.

[0178] According to a second embodiment, shown in figures 15 and 16, each labelling device 3, 35, 22, 23, 41 , 42 comprises:

[0179] - a plurality of directing rollers 4 of a belt 5 comprising a base material 6A and a label 6B applied to said base material 6A;

[0180] - a label release element 11 ;

[0181] - a first label conveying roller 50;

[0182] - a second, opposing roller (51 ).

[0183] The operation of the labelling devices (3, 35, 22, 23, 41 , 42) according to what is shown in figures 15 and 16 is the following.

[0184] According to one aspect, the first conveying roller 50 is a roller of plastic material (in particular, of a non-deformable material).

[0185] Preferably, the first conveying roller 50 is a roller provided with suction seats (not shown), configured to hold the label.

[0186] Note that the label is released to the first conveying roller 50 by means of the release element 11 .

[0187] Therefore, the first conveying roller 50 holds the label by suction.

[0188] The first conveyor roller 50 is configured to rotate about the axis thereof; during the rotation, it pulls the label, held by the suction holes.

[0189] The label is conveyed by the first conveying roller 50 with the adhesive part thereof facing radially outwards.

[0190] With reference to the side label, the first manipulating apparatus 7 picks up the container from the conveying unit 28 and brings it into contact with the first conveying roller 50, to allow the label to stick to the side wall of the container C.

[0191] According to another aspect, the second opposing roller 51 is a roller made of rubber, or alternatively, made of a material adapted to elastically deform.

[0192] The second roller 51 is preferably configured to be movable.

[0193] According to another aspect, the machine 1 preferably comprises springs acting on the second roller 51 . In other words, according to this aspect, the second opposing roller 51 is preferably sprung.

[0194] Note that the label detaches from the belt at the release element 11 , in abutment and conveyed first by the first roller 50.

[0195] In general, the second roller 51 is made of a more yielding material (in other words less rigid) than the material of the first roller 50.

[0196] The label is applied in this manner: the container C picked up by the robot (e.g., by the first manipulating apparatus 7) initially comes into contact with the label when the label is conveyed by the first release roller 50 and then the label adheres to the container C.

[0197] The robot (e.g., from the first manipulating apparatus 7) then carries the container C in contrast with the second roller 51 , moving (preferably by means of at least one rotation) the container C to favor the adhesion of the label to the container C.

[0198] Note that the control unit 10 is configured to further rotate the container C by a predetermined angle (preferably 180 °) after applying the label. Note that, thus, advantageously, it is possible to control the correct application of the label on all sides of the container C.

[0199] In fact, the machine 1 preferably comprises a further camera 52 configured to capture images relating to the side label (and thus allow the check to be carried out).

[0200] Note that the further camera 52 is connected to the control unit 10 to send information thereto relating to the captured images. According to another aspect, a method 1 is defined for labelling containers C of products P of the tobacco industry, comprising the following steps:

[0201] - moving containers C of products P of the tobacco industry along the conveying path;

[0202] - providing the first labelling device 3, located in the labelling region 8 and configured to release a label at the side wall of each container C;

[0203] - by means of the first manipulating apparatus 7, picking up a container C from the conveyor assembly 2 and carrying said container C into the labelling region 8;

[0204] - moving said first manipulating apparatus 7 into the labelling region 8 so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container C.

[0205] Preferably, the step of moving said first manipulating apparatus 7 into the labelling region 8 so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container C comprises moving the first manipulating apparatus 7 along a predefined trajectory as a function of the shape of the container C. According to another aspect, the method comprises the step of:

[0206] - capturing at least one image of a container C advanced along the conveying path;

[0207] - based on the at least one image captured, deriving information regarding the shape of the container C and moving said first manipulating apparatus 7 into the labelling region 8 along a predefined trajectory as a function of the shape information regarding the shape of the container (C).

[0208] According to another aspect, the step of moving the first manipulating apparatus 7, with the container C picked up, to carry said container to the labelling region 8 and apply at least one label to the side wall of the container C, comprises the step of moving said first manipulating apparatus 7 to cause it to translate and rotate at the labelling region 8.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A machine (1 ) for labelling containers of products (P) of the tobacco industry, wherein each container (C) comprises a bottom wall, a top wall opposite the bottom wall and a side wall which joins the bottom wall and the top wall to each other; the labelling machine (1) comprising:- a conveyor assembly (2) configured to move the containers (C) along a conveying path;- a first labelling device (3), located in a labelling region (8) and configured to release a label at the side wall of each container (C),- a first manipulating apparatus (7), movable along at least one direction and / or in rotation, located along the conveying path and configured to pick up a container (C) from the conveyor assembly (2) and to carry the container (C) into the labelling region (8) to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container (C);- a control unit (10) connected to the first manipulating apparatus (7) and configured to move the first manipulating apparatus (7) into the labelling region (8) so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container (C).

2. The machine (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the control unit (10) is configured to move the first manipulating apparatus (7) into the labelling region (8) based on information regarding a shape of the container (C).

3. The machine (1 ) according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the first manipulating apparatus (7) is a robot.

4. The machine (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a memory (9) containing information regarding a shape of the container (C) and / or regarding a movement trajectory of the first manipulating apparatus (7), and wherein the control unit (10) is configuredto move the manipulating apparatus (7) based on the information present in the memory (9).

5. The machine (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an image capturing device (43), connected to the control unit (10) to send information relating to the images captured, and wherein the control unit (10) is configured for:- processing the images;- deriving information regarding the shape of the container (C) from the images;- calculating a movement trajectory of the first manipulating apparatus (7) based on the shape information derived.

6. The machine (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (10) is configured for commanding the first manipulating apparatus (7) to instruct it to move in translation and / or in rotation in the labelling region (8) while the side label is being applied to a plurality of sides of the container (C).

7. The machine (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a second labelling device (22), configured to release a label at the top wall of the container (C).

8. The machine (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the label applied to the top wall of the container (C) has at least one tab, and wherein the machine (1 ) further comprises at least one contact element, located downstream of the second labelling device (22) along the conveying path and configured to fold the at least one tab at the side wall of the container (C).

9. The machine (1 ) according to the preceding claim, comprising a visiondevice (33), located downstream of the contact element and configured to capture images at least of the at least one folded tab, the control unit (10) being connected to the vision device (33) to receive the images and, based on the images, to derive a folding state of the at least one tab.

10. The machine (1 ) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, comprising a further labelling device (41 ), configured to release a label at the top wall of the container (C), the control unit (10) being configured to activate the further labelling device (41 ) and the second labelling device (22) alternately.

11. The machine (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a third labelling device (23) configured to release a label at the bottom wall of the container (C).

12. The machine (1 ) according to the preceding claim, comprising a further labelling device (42), configured to release a label at the bottom wall of the container (C), the control unit (10) being configured to activate the further labelling device (42) and the third, bottom labelling device (23) alternately.

13. The machine (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first labelling device (3) comprises:- a first, label conveying roller (50), configured to receive labels from the releasing device (11 ) and provided with suction means;- a second, opposing roller (51 ).

14. The machine (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second, opposing roller (51 ) is movable and / or made from elastically deformable material.

15. A method for labelling containers (C) of products (P) of the tobaccoindustry, wherein each container (C) comprises a bottom wall, a top wall opposite the bottom wall and a side wall which joins the bottom wall and the top wall to each other; wherein the method comprises the following steps:- moving containers (C) of products (P) of the tobacco industry along a conveying path;- providing a first labelling device (3), located in a labelling region (8) and configured to release a label at the side wall of each container (C);- via a first manipulating apparatus (7), picking up a container (C) from the conveyor assembly (2) and carrying the container (C) into the labelling region (8);- moving the first manipulating apparatus (7) into the labelling region (8) so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container (C).

16. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the step of moving the first manipulating apparatus (7) into the labelling region (8) so as to allow a label to be applied to the side wall of each container (C) comprises moving the first manipulating apparatus (7) along a predefined trajectory as a function of the shape of the container (C).

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, comprising the following steps:- capturing at least one image of a container (C);- advancing along the conveying path;- based on the at least one image captured, deriving information regarding the shape of the container (C) and moving the first manipulating apparatus (7) into the labelling region (8) along a predefined trajectory as a function of the shape information regarding the shape of the container (C).

Images