Applicator unit for labels for a labelling machine, labelling machine comprising said applicator unit and method for applying labels

Abstract

An applicator unit (10) for labels, wherein the labels are arranged on a support surface of a strip (W) and wherein each label has a connection surface thereof, arranged in contact with said support surface, and an adhesion surface thereof which is opposite said connection surface and configured to adhere to a wall of a container (C) to be labelled, in particular a bottle. The applicator unit (10) is operatively associable with a conveyor (G) on which a plurality of moving containers (C) are positioned in use, and comprises a label application station (20) defining a labelling zone. The applicator unit further comprises a preparation station (30) for preparing the label comprising a blade member (31) configured to enter into sliding contact with and scrape the rear surface of the strip (W).

Description

[0001] “APPLICATOR UNIT FOR LABELS FOR A LABELLING MACHINE, LABELLING MACHINE COMPRISING SAID APPLICATOR UNIT AND METHOD FOR APPLYING LABELS”

[0002] * * * * *

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention concerns: an applicator unit for labels, in particular intended to be operatively associated with an automatic labelling machine, a labelling machine comprising said labelling unit and a method for applying labels.

[0005] In more detail, the applicator unit according to the invention falls within the field of manufacture and marketing of machines, lines, apparatuses and, more generally, automatic labelling systems, intended for applying a label on a wall of a container, for example a bottle or a can.

[0006] The applicator unit according to the invention has a specific application in the sector of automatic labelling machines that use, in particular, labels arranged on a strip having its own support surface and having an adhesion surface opposite to the support surface to adhere to the wall of a container moving against said strip of labels.

[0007] In particular, the present invention is preferably used for labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such a decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container.

[0008] An example of such labels is commercially known with the name Signite® and is described, for example, in patent EP3294825.

[0009] However, the present invention can also be used on other types of labels of a different type to what is cited here above.

[0010] STATE OF THE ART

[0011] The use of labelling machines equipped with at least one applicator unit for labels configured to apply at least one label on a corresponding wall of a container such as those specified here above is known, in the technical field of reference. An example of an applicator unit for labels of the known type typically comprises a support structure, a work head mounted on the support structure and having an operating zone of contact in which the labelling takes place, i.e. the transfer of a label from the strip to the wall of a container. The applicator unit of the known type further comprises at least one feed reel rotatably mounted on the support structure and configured to feed the work head with a strip comprising a plurality of labels, each having its own adhesive surface facing towards the wall of a container.

[0012] The applicator unit of the known type further comprises at least one recovery reel to receive the strip at the end of application of the labels onto the containers, and guide means rotatably mounted onto the support structure and configured to guide the strip along a path extending from the feed reel towards the recovery reel, passing, at least partially, through said operating zone of contact of the work head.

[0013] However, the known applicator units have proved to be unsuitable for use of the aforementioned labels (labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®), since these labels have a particular shape, as described in patent EP3294825.

[0014] In order to overcome such drawbacks, several application systems for said labels have been developed, which are described, for example, in patent EP3907148.

[0015] However, these systems, in their practical embodiment available on the market, have proved to be unsatisfactory, since they are still in the initial stage of development, and also rudimentary and underperforming in terms of production speed.

[0016] In addition, said known systems have proved to be not very versatile and available only for linear machines, on which there are operating limits with respect to rotary labelling machines.

[0017] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels (labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®) for an automatic labelling machine, a labelling machine and a method for applying labels that makes it possible to obviate and remedy, at least in part, the drawbacks of the aforementioned prior art.

[0018] A further object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels (labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®), a labelling machine and a method for applying labels that is suitable to operate with labels such as those mentioned here above, i.e. comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®, at a high labelling speed, or at least higher than the units of the prior art.

[0019] A further object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels (labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®), a labelling machine and a method for applying labels that allows the labelling of a plurality of containers in a precise way that is repeatable in a substantially constant way over time.

[0020] A further object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels (labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®), a labelling machine and a method for applying labels that has an alternative and / or improved configuration, both in constructive terms and in functional terms, compared to the known solutions.

[0021] SUMMARY In this context, the technical task underlying the present invention is to propose an applicator unit for labels for an automatic labelling machine which obviates the drawbacks of the prior art as described above. In particular, the aforesaid objects are achieved with an applicator unit for labels in accordance with the features set forth in claim 1 .

[0022] The dependent claims outline particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of a preferred, but non-exclusive, embodiment of an applicator unit for labels, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] - figure 1 shows, according to a perspective view, an applicator unit for labels according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] - figure 2A shows, according to a partial top plan view, the applicator unit illustrated in figure 1 associated with a conveyor for containers;

[0027] - figure 2B shows, according to a partial top plan view, a second embodiment of the applicator unit illustrated in figure 1 ;

[0028] - figure 3A shows, according to a perspective view, a detail of the applicator unit illustrated in figure 1 ;

[0029] - figure 3B shows, according to a top plan view, the detail illustrated in figure 3A;

[0030] - figure 3C shows, according to an enlarged detail view, a detail of the detail illustrated in figure 3B;

[0031] - figure 4A shows, according to a perspective view, a component of the detail illustrated in figure 3A;

[0032] - figure 4B shows, according to an enlarged perspective view, a detail of the component illustrated in figure 4A;

[0033] - figure 5 shows, according to a partial plan view, the component illustrated in figure 4A in various working operating configurations; - figure 6 shows, according to a partial perspective view, a station of the applicator unit illustrated in figure 1 .

[0034] With reference to the drawings, they serve solely to illustrate embodiments of the invention for the purpose of better clarifying, in combination with the description, the inventive principles at the basis of the invention.

[0035] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] With reference to the appended figures, the number 10 denotes, in its entirety, an applicator unit for labels, the subject-matter of the present invention, intended to be operatively and mechanically associated with an automatic labelling machine.

[0037] The term “labelling machine” should be understood to mean, for the purposes of the present description, a machine, apparatus, system, line or any other automatic labelling system intended to apply a label onto a surface of a wall of a container. Specific reference will be made below to the application of labels on a cylindrical surface of a bottle, for example a glass bottle containing a food-grade fluid (such as a wine bottle).

[0038] The term “strip” should be understood to mean, for the purposes of the present description, a band or a strip defining a support surface configured to be wrapped around a central support so as to define a reel. The strip comprises a plurality of labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®, reciprocally arranged at regular steps (distanced from each other) and each having an adhesive surface facing towards an external environment, i.e. opposite to said support surface and adapted to be applied onto a surface of a wall of a container. In other words, the surface of the labels that is facing frontally and towards the outside of the strip has gluing means for the application thereof to a surface of a wall of a container.

[0039] Reference will be made in the following description, in a non-limiting manner, to an applicator unit for applying labels onto a surface of a wall of a container, in particular at a cylindrical portion of a wall of a bottle. However, the applicator unit according to the invention could also be used for the application of labels on walls having non-cylindrical surfaces, for example conical like the neck of a wine bottle (e.g. sparkling wine), or on surfaces having a particular shape, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the present description.

[0040] Furthermore, each of the aforesaid labels can have any shape, for example square, rectangular, circular, oval or others, or dimensions, or may be obtained in several pieces separate from each other. Reference will be made in the following description, in a non-limiting manner, to labels having a rectangular or square shape.

[0041] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, figure 1 illustrates an applicator unit 10 for labels L (shown in detail, for example, in figures 3B, 3C), wherein the labels are arranged on a support surface W1 of a strip W which is opposite a rear surface W2 of the strip W itself and wherein each label L has a connection surface L1 thereof, arranged in contact with said support surface W1 of the strip W, and an adhesion surface L2 thereof which is opposite the connection surface L1 and configured to adhere to a wall of a container C to be labelled (see figure 3C), in particular a bottle.

[0042] According to an aspect of the invention, the applicator unit 10 comprises a support surface 11 extending prevalently along a longitudinal axis Y-Y between a first end 11 a and a second end 11 b opposite to the first end 11 a. It is specified that said longitudinal axis Y-Y belongs to a longitudinal vertical plane and extends along a radial direction with respect to the centre of the labelling zone defined, preferably from the centre of the abutment member 25.

[0043] Preferably, as illustrated in figure 1 , the longitudinal axis Y-Y is arranged substantially parallel to the ground, i.e. , horizontal.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment, the applicator unit 10 comprises inclining means to incline the longitudinal axis Y-Y with respect to a support frame 41 so as to be able to operate on inclined surfaces of containers (for example such as the ones mentioned above). The support structure 11 is preferably made of a metallic material, so as to give strength and rigidity to the applicator unit 10 during its operation.

[0045] As illustrated in figure 1 , the applicator unit 10 comprises a feed station 12 for the strip W arranged at a first end 11 a, and comprising at least one feed roller 12a for the strip W and preferably at least one recovery roller 12c for the strip. In particular, the feed roller 12a and the recovery roller 12c extend along respective rotation axes substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis Y-Y and are configured to rotate around such rotation axes. More specifically, the feed roller 12a for the strip W is configured to feed an application station 20 (introduced and described below) with a flow of the strip W, whereas the recovery roller 12c is configured to recover the strip W itself following a labelling operation.

[0046] In more detail, each of the feed and recovery rollers 12a, 12c comprises a respective resting surface mounted on the support structure 11 , arranged substantially planar to and extending parallel to the support structure 11 itself, and configured to support the movement of the aforesaid rollers 12a, 12c around rotation axes thereof orthogonal to the resting surface.

[0047] Preferably, the feed station 12 further comprises optionally at least one return roller 12b for the protective film rotatably mounted on a resting surface thereof parallel to the support structure 11. More specifically, the return roller 12b is configured to recover the protective film of the strip W before a labelling operation (i.e. before labelling, it is necessary to remove the protective film).

[0048] Preferably, the rollers 12a, 12b, 12c are arranged parallel to each other and orthogonal to the respective resting surface.

[0049] Preferably, the recovery roller 12c is arranged along the path of the strip W, between the feed roller 12a and the return roller 12b, and extends along a rotation axis thereof orthogonal to the resting surface thereof and is configured to recover the strip W at the end of the labelling operations.

[0050] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention not illustrated in the appended figures (and preferable in the presence of a strip W that does not have a protective film), the return roller 12b of the protective film is not present.

[0051] According to an aspect of the invention, the applicator unit 10 comprises a guide station 13 interposed between the first and second end 11 a, 11 b and comprising a plurality of diverter rollers 13” each extending along an axis thereof substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis Y-Y and orthogonal to the resting surface of the rollers 12a, 12b, 12c and configured to rotate around the respective axes.

[0052] Preferably, each of the aforesaid diverter rollers 13” is rotatably idle around a rotation axis thereof and configured to divert the strip W along a predefined path, from the feed roller 12a towards the recovery roller 12c passing, at least partially, through the application station 20.

[0053] Preferably, at least one of the aforesaid diverter rollers 13” is movable, in particular in a tilting manner ("oscillating”), and configured to guarantee a predefined tension value on the strip W. In contrast, the remaining diverter rollers 13” are mounted on the guide station 13 in a fixed manner.

[0054] Advantageously, the aforesaid diverter rollers 13” cooperate with the feed station 12 and allow the strip W to be conveyed along the desired labelling path.

[0055] In accordance with the embodiment of the invention illustrated in figure 2A and 2B, the applicator unit 10 is operatively associable with a conveyor G on which a plurality of moving containers C are positioned in use, in particular bottles.

[0056] As mentioned above, the applicator unit 10 comprises the application station 20 for a label L, arranged at the second end 11 b of the support structure 11 and defining an operating zone in which a passing of a label L from the strip W to the wall of a container C takes place.

[0057] In particular, in the operating zone an abutment element is present that defines an abutment surface 25a thereof (fig. 6), on which the rear surface W2 of the strip W slides in use. The application station 20 for the label L corresponds with the zone in which adhesion of the label L to the container transiting at that zone takes place. In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the appended figures, in particular in figure 1 -2A, 2B, the applicator unit 10 further comprises a preparation station 30 for preparing the label L, illustrated in figures 1 -2A, 2B in a mounted configuration, while figure 3A-3B shows a detailed configuration.

[0058] Preferably, the preparation station 30 is arranged upstream of the application station according to a direction of advancement of the strip.

[0059] More specifically, the preparation station 30 is configured to perform a pretreatment of the strip W of labels L before their labelling, and comprises a blade member 31 configured to come into sliding contact with and to scrape the rear surface W2 of the strip W, so as to weaken the connection of each label L with respect to the support surface W1 of the strip W itself. In other words, the strip W of labels L, starting from the feed roller 12a, is made to pass through the blade member 31 by means of a sliding thereof sliding against a surface of the blade member 31 itself, so as to impart to the strip W and to each label L a stress along a dimension along which the strip W extends, such as to weaken the connection between the labels L and the strip itself.

[0060] In yet other words, the strip W of labels is maintained under tension at the blade member 31 so that the latter can scrape the rear surface W2 of the strip W.

[0061] Advantageously, the aforesaid sliding contact with and scraping of the strip W allows weakening of an adhesion force between each label L and the strip W itself, with consequent easy detachment of the labels L during their application onto a wall of a container C.

[0062] In other words, the preparation station 30 allows weakening of the connection of each label L to the strip W, but without it being detached from the strip W itself. According to an aspect of the invention illustrated in figures 2 and 3B, the blade member 31 is configured to cause an angular deviation of the strip W in accordance with a predefined deviation angle a.

[0063] More specifically, as shown in detail in figure 3B and 5, the deviation angle a is the angle formed between a direction along which the blade member 31 extends and the direction along which the strip W is diverted, downstream of the blade member 31 , towards the application station 20.

[0064] In other words, the deviation angle a is the angle facing towards an inner portion of the applicator unit, i.e. facing towards the longitudinal axis Y-Y (see figure 2A, 2B) and not facing towards an outside environment.

[0065] According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in detail in figure 5, the deviation angle a, by way of example, is comprised between 90° and 180° (180° excluded).

[0066] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in figures 2A, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B and 5, the blade member 31 extends between a foot end 31 a thereof and a head end 31 b thereof, preferably opposite to the foot end 31 a.

[0067] Preferably, in the embodiment of figure 2A, the blade member 31 comprises an elongated guide surface 310, and an outlet edge 311 arranged at said head end 31 b and contiguous with, i.e. alongside, the guide surface 310.

[0068] In particular, the outlet edge 311 is configured to define a blade of the aforesaid blade member 31 so as to obtain weakening of the connection of each label L as mentioned above.

[0069] In other words, the blade member 31 is shaped so as to have a slim and tapered shape at its head end 31 b, corresponding with the outlet portion of the strip W from the blade member 31 itself.

[0070] In yet other words, the blade member 31 having a substantially tapered shape at the head end 31 b.

[0071] Preferably, the blade member 31 is made of a metallic material, for example steel or an aluminium alloy.

[0072] Alternatively, the blade member 31 can be made of a polymeric material. According to an aspect of the invention illustrated in detail in figure 4A-4B, the outlet edge 311 of the blade member 31 preferably has a coupling surface, i.e. a surface curved according to a circumference with a predefined radius of curvature. Alternatively, the outlet edge could be a corner edge.

[0073] Advantageously, said coupling surface allows the aforesaid weakening to be obtained without damaging, in particular cutting or tearing or ripping, the strip W during its sliding across the aforesaid coupling surface.

[0074] According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in figure 5, the blade member 31 comprises optionally a chamfer surface 312 interposed between the guide surface 310 and the outlet edge 311. In particular, the chamfer surface 312 is configured to convey the strip W towards the outlet edge 311 .

[0075] According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in figure 3A, the preparation station 30 preferably comprises a guide roller 33 rotatably mounted idle on the preparation station 30 itself, and preferably arranged at or proximal to the foot end 31 a of the blade member 31 .

[0076] The guide roller 33 is configured to allow the strip W to slide on the guide surface 310 without entering into contact with the foot end 31a of the blade member 31 .

[0077] Advantageously, the entry of the strip into the preparation station and in particular the contact between the strip W itself and the blade member 31 is sliding, i.e. of the rolling type, and therefore without sharp contacts, i.e. of the sliding type, as occurs at the outlet edge 311 of the blade member 31 . According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in figure 2A, 2B, the blade member 31 is arranged at a distanced (or detached or distal) position with respect to the application station 20 according to a feed direction of the strip W.

[0078] In other words, the blade member 31 is positioned at a predefined distance with respect to the application station 20, and in particular distal from each container, so as not to interfere with each said container C during its labelling.

[0079] In yet other words, the blade member 31 performs the function of weakening an adhesion between each label L deposited on the strip W and the support surface W1 of the strip W itself, without cooperating, i.e. exerting no interaction with each container C.

[0080] As already stated, the labels L of the strip W comprise a decoration or a decorative layer, and are configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®, so as to adhere to a container C following a pressing action of the label L on the container C or vice versa.

[0081] In other words, the aforesaid labels L are configured to adhere to the wall of a container C when the latter exerts pressure on the label L itself.

[0082] In fact, in accordance with an aspect of the invention illustrated in figure 2A, 2B and in figure 6, the application station 20 comprises an abutment member 25 that has a respective abutment surface 25a configured to support the rear surface W2 of the strip W during the labelling of a container C, and, through said abutment member 25, to exert a pressure between the label L and the container C.

[0083] According to an aspect of the invention, the abutment member 25 extends along the longitudinal axis Y-Y (see figure 6), in particular projecting towards an environment outside the applicator unit 10. In particular, the abutment member 25 is configured to abut against a wall of a container C moved by the conveyor G in approach towards and / or away from the abutment member 25 itself, so as to exert a pressure against a wall of each container C.

[0084] In other words, the abutment member 25 is reciprocally positioned with respect to a peripheral edge portion of the conveyor G so that the wall of each container C enters into contact with the abutment surface 25a of the abutment member 25 by exerting a predefined pressure stress to allow each label L to transfer from the strip W to the aforesaid wall. In yet other words, the abutment member 25 is opportunely positioned, with respect to an external dimension of the conveyor G, so as to exert a pressing action between an abutment surface 25a thereof and the wall of each of the containers C moved against the abutment member 25 itself.

[0085] In yet other words, the abutment surface 25a is arranged at least tangential to the wall of each of the containers C transiting at it.

[0086] Furthermore, the abutment surface 25a has an extension, substantially perpendicular to the axis Y-Y, planar (rectangular or square), preferably concave towards the transit zone of the containers C.

[0087] Preferably, the abutment member is made of an elastically deformable (soft) material and defines a sort of cushion or “pad”.

[0088] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in figure 1 , the applicator unit 10 preferably comprises an adjustment station 40 mechanically connected to the applicator unit 10.

[0089] The adjustment station 40 is configured to adjust the position of the applicator unit 10 with respect to the ground according to a plurality of orientation directions combinable with each other:

[0090] - movement along a direction parallel to the axis Y-Y (movement away from and towards the containers);

[0091] - movement along a direction Z-Z orthogonal to the axis Y-Y and vertical;

[0092] - movement according to a pitching movement to lower or to raise the end 11 b with respect to the conveyor G;

[0093] - rolling around an axis parallel to the axis Y-Y.

[0094] As illustrated in figure 1 , the adjustment station 40 is arranged in a lowered position with respect to the applicator unit 10. In other words, the applicator unit 10 is resting on the adjustment station 40.

[0095] In more detail, the adjustment station 40 comprises a frame 41 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y and comprising a plurality of feet 410 or wheels or other not expressly cited here, configured to be rested on the ground to give stability to the adjustment station 40. Preferably, the frame 41 is made of a metallic material, for example steel, so as to give strength and rigidity to the adjustment station 40.

[0096] The adjustment station 40 further comprises a sliding guide mounted on the frame 41 and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y. In particular, the adjustment station 40 comprises a first sliding guide 42a and a sliding second guide 42b substantially parallel to each other.

[0097] The adjustment station 40 further comprises a carriage 44 slidably coupled to the first sliding guide 42a and to the second sliding guide 42b and configured to slide along an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y. More specifically, the carriage 44 is configured to connect mechanically with the applicator unit 10 and to be moved along the aforesaid first and second sliding guide 42a, 42b in accordance with a linear translational motion.

[0098] In other words, the applicator unit 10 is mounted on the carriage 44 so as to move solidly constrained to the carriage 44 itself.

[0099] The adjustment station 40 further comprises actuating means connected to the carriage 44 and configured to drive the movement of the carriage 44 itself along a direction parallel to the first and the second sliding guide 42a, 42b. In particular, the actuating means comprises, for example, a screw mechanism 50, preferably a trapezoidal screw or a ball screw, extending along an operation axis parallel to the first and second sliding guide 42a, 42b and configured to rotate around said operation axis.

[0100] Preferably, the screw mechanism 50 is driven by means of an electric motor, or through manual means, such as for example a crank, a handwheel or similar.

[0101] Advantageously, through operation of the screw mechanism 50, the carriage 44 and therefore the applicator unit 10 are movable and positionable, with respect to a conveyor such as the one briefly described above, at a predefined distance variable as a function of the type of containers to be labelled. According to an aspect of the invention, figure 2B shows a second embodiment of the applicator unit 10 and, in particular, of the blade member 31.

[0102] More specifically, said embodiment comprises a blade member 31 having an elongated “slat” shape along a substantially vertical direction. Preferably, the blade element 31 has a substantially prismatic shape, for example with a square, rectangular or polygonal cross section thereof, and extending along an axis orthogonal to a resting surface of the rollers 12a, 12b, 12c.

[0103] In other words, the blade member 31 illustrated in figure 2B is substantially a longitudinal bar (not having a surface extension along the feed direction of the strip W) with a substantially constant section, and configured to be placed in contact with the strip W of labels L at an edge thereof.

[0104] Said edge has a respective connection radius substantially similar to the connection radius of the blade member 31 illustrated in figure 2A, and suitable for not ripping and / or tearing the strip W.

[0105] A further object of the present invention is a labelling machine 101 , for which the same numerical references will be maintained for the sake of descriptive simplicity.

[0106] In more detail, the labelling machine 101 is configured to apply labels L on a wall of a container C, in particular a bottle, and also comprises a conveyor G (see figure 2A, 2B) configured to move a plurality of containers C along a feed direction, at an abutment surface 25a.

[0107] The labelling machine 101 further comprises an applicator unit 10 for labels L reversibly associated with the conveyor G and arranged at or proximal to the abutment surface 25a so as to apply a label L on each container C. In particular, the aforesaid applicator unit 10 has one or more of the features previously described.

[0108] According to an aspect of the invention, the conveyor G is preferably of the rotating carousel type. In particular, as illustrated in figure 2A, 2B, the rotating carousel has a substantially circular shape and is configured to rotate around an axis substantially orthogonal to the ground (i.e. vertical). More specifically, the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the applicator unit 10 is oriented along a radial direction of the conveyor G.

[0109] As illustrated in figure 2A-2B, the conveyor G of the rotating carousel type is configured to transport a plurality of containers C, each positioned at a peripheral edge portion of said rotating carousel. Preferably, each container C is arranged on a respective rotating plate of the carousel G configured to rotate at the labelling station 20.

[0110] It should be noted that the labelling machine 101 comprises synchronisation means for synchronising the peripheral movement speed of the conveyor G with a movement speed of the strip W with the labels L, so that when the container reaches the labelling station 25, a label L is present at said labelling station 20 so that it can be applied to the bottle.

[0111] Preferably, but not necessarily, the direction of advancement of the containers C is opposite to the feed direction of the strip W at the labelling station.

[0112] Furthermore, said synchronisation means is configured to synchronise the rotation of the container C on itself, by means of rotation of the relative plate, at the labelling station 20. In detail, the plate is configured to start making the container C rotate when the latter reaches the abutment surface 25a.

[0113] According to an aspect of the invention, not illustrated in the appended figures, the conveyor G can be a linear conveyor, preferably straight.

[0114] Preferably, as illustrated in figure 2A, 2B, each container C is positioned on the rotating carousel G so that the surface of the container C is accessible from the outside.

[0115] As mentioned above, according to an aspect of the invention illustrated in figure 2A, 2B and 6, the abutment member 25 is arranged so as to exert a pressure against each container C which arrives at the labelling station 20. According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in figure 6, the applicator unit 10 preferably comprises adjustment means 70 interposed between the adjustment member 25 and the support structure 11. More specifically, the adjustment means 70 is mounted on the support structure 11 and is configured to connect with the abutment member 25.

[0116] In addition, the adjustment means 70 is configured to allow at least one movement of translation and / or rotation of the abutment member 25 so that the latter can be oriented in accordance with a plurality of operating configurations.

[0117] For example, these configurations provide for orienting the abutment member 25 so that its labelling surface 25a is:

[0118] - inclined laterally with respect to the reference surface so that it protrudes more towards the containers in the right-hand part (according to a horizontal direction) and protrudes less towards the containers in the left-hand part or vice versa (labelling surface 25a inclined to the right or left);

[0119] - movable along a horizontal and / or vertical direction, preferably along the longitudinal axis Y-Y and / or along the second axis R-R and / or along the first axis Z-Z;

[0120] - oriented according to a combination of the above-described inclinations and movements.

[0121] The present invention also relates to a method for applying labels on a wall of a container, in particular a bottle, for which the same numerical references will be retained for the sake of descriptive simplicity.

[0122] The method for applying labels comprising the following operating steps:

[0123] - arranging a plurality of containers C at a peripheral edge portion of a conveyor G of a labelling machine 101 ;

[0124] - arranging a strip W having a plurality of labels L arranged on a support surface of a strip W1 which is opposite a rear surface W2 of the strip W itself and wherein each label L has a connection surface L1 thereof, arranged in contact with said support surface W1 of the strip W, and an adhesion surface W2 thereof which is opposite to the connection surface L1 and configured to adhere to a wall of a container C to be labelled, in particular a bottle. - arranging an applicator unit 10 for labels L having one or more of the previously described features;

[0125] - positioning the applicator unit 10 for labels L with the application station 20 and the abutment surface 25a arranged at a peripheral portion of the conveyor G so as to apply a label L onto a wall of a container C;

[0126] - synchronising a movement speed of the conveyor G with a movement speed of the strip W, so that when the container arrives at the application station 20, a label L is present at said application station 20 so that it can be applied to the bottle; wherein said method comprises a step of scraping the strip on the support surface W2 by means of a blade member 31 , carried out at a preparation station 30 for preparing the label L, to weaken an adhesion force of each label L on the strip W and to allow a facilitated transfer thereof onto a wall of a container C at the subsequent labelling station 25.

[0127] In particular, insofar as concerns the synchronisation step, there are at least several alternative embodiments:

[0128] - the strip W is moved before arrival of the subsequent container C and is maintained stationary in position during application of the label L on the container C. The container C rolls on the label stationary in position and removes it through adhesion; or

[0129] - the strip W is moved during passing of the container C at the application station 20 so that the container C removes the label L through adhesion during said reciprocal movement. The direction of advancement of the strip W at the application station 20 is opposite to the direction of advancement of the container C at the lateral surface arranged in contact with the label L in the application step; or

[0130] - the strip W is moved during passing of the container C at the application station 20 at the same peripheral speed of the container C so that the latter removes the label L through adhesion during said reciprocal movement. The direction of advancement of the strip W at the application station 20 is concordant with the direction of advancement of the container C at the lateral surface arranged in contact with the label L in the application step.

[0131] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the step of arranging a strip W having a plurality of labels provides for obtaining said labels having a decoration or a decorative layer and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container C.

[0132] In other words, the present invention also relates to a use of the applicator unit 10, previously described, for a strip W with a plurality of labels having a decoration or a decorative layer and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container C.

[0133] From what has been described, it is clear that the applicator unit for labels for a labelling machine, according to the invention, is particularly advantageous in that:

[0134] - it makes it possible to meet, at least in part, the aforesaid needs and to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art cited above at least in relation to the application of the aforementioned labels (labels comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container, preferably Signite®);

[0135] - it is simple and economical to manufacture;

[0136] - it allows a higher number of labels to be applied in the unit of time, with consequent high production yield of the applicator unit compared with the traditional known solutions.

[0137] - it can be applied as a module to the periphery of a labelling machine manufactured to manage other types of application.

Claims

1. An applicator unit (10) for labels (L), wherein the labels are arranged on a support surface (W1 ) of a strip (W) which is opposite a rear surface (W2) of the strip (W) itself and wherein each label (L) has a connection surface (L1 ) thereof arranged in contact with said support surface (W1 ) of said strip (W), and an adhesion surface (L2) thereof which is opposite said connection surface (L1 ) and configured to adhere to a wall of a container (C) to be labelled, in particular a bottle; said applicator unit (10) being operatively associable with a conveyor (G) on which a plurality of moving containers (C) are positioned in use, and comprises a label application station (20) defining a labelling zone (25a); characterised in that it comprises a preparation station (30) for said label comprising a blade member (31 ) configured to come into sliding contact with and scrape the rear surface (W2) of the strip (W), so as to weaken the connection of each label with respect to the support surface of the strip (W).

2. The applicator unit (10) according to claim 1 , wherein said blade member (31 ) is configured to cause an angular deviation of the strip (W) in accordance with a predefined deviation angle (a).

3. The applicator unit (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said deviation angle (a) is comprised between 90° and 180°, and different from 180°.

4. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said blade member (31 ) extends between a foot end (31 a) thereof and a head end (31 b) thereof, and comprises:- a guide surface (310), and- an outlet edge (311 ) arranged at said head end (31 b) and contiguous with said guide surface (310), said outlet edge (311 ) being configured to define a blade of said blade member (31 ) so as to obtain said weakening of the connection of each label.

5. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said blade member (31 ) is arranged in a distanced position withrespect to said application station (20) according to a feed direction of the strip (W).

6. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the labels of the strip (W) comprise a decoration or a decorative layer, and are configured to transfer such a decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container (C).

7. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said application station (20) comprises an abutment member (25) having a respective abutment surface (25a) configured to support the rear surface (W2) of the strip (W) during the labelling of a container (C).

8. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said blade member (31 ) comprises a longitudinal bar and having at least one edge configured to come into sliding contact with and scrape the rear surface (W2) of the strip (W) of labels (L).

9. A labelling machine (101 ) configured to apply labels onto a wall of a container, in particular a bottle, comprising:- a conveyor (G) configured to move a plurality of containers along a feed direction, at a labelling zone;- a label applicator unit (10) reversibly associated with said conveyor (G) and arranged at said labelling zone so as to apply a label onto each container (C), said applicator unit (10) having the characteristics according to one or more of claims 1 to 8.

10. The labelling machine (101 ) according to claim 9, wherein said conveyor (G) is of the rotating carousel type or a linear conveyor, preferably straight.

11. The labelling machine (101 ) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein said abutment member (25) is arranged so as to exert a pressure against each container (C) which arrives at said labelling station (20).

12. A method for applying labels onto a wall of a container, in particular a bottle, comprising the following operating steps:- arranging a plurality of containers at a peripheral edge portion of a conveyor (G) of a labelling machine (100);- arranging a strip (W) having a plurality of labels arranged on a support surface of a strip (W1 ) which is opposite a rear surface of the strip (W2) itself and wherein each label has a connection surface thereof, arranged in contact with said support surface of the strip (W), and an adhesion surface thereof which is opposite said connection surface and configured to adhere to a wall of a container (C) to be labelled, in particular a bottle;- arranging a label applicator unit (10) having the characteristics according to one or more of claims 1 to 8;- positioning said label applicator unit (10) with said application station (20) arranged at said labelling zone (25a) and at a peripheral portion of said conveyor (G) so as to apply a label onto a wall of a container (C);- synchronising a movement speed of said conveyor (G) with a movement speed of the strip (W), so that when the container arrives at said application station (20), a label is present at such an abutment surface (25a) so that it can be applied to the container (C); characterised in that it comprises a step of scraping said strip on said support surface by means of a blade member (31 ), carried out at a label preparation station, to weaken an adhesion force of each label on the strip (W) and to allow a facilitated transfer thereof onto a wall of a container (C) at the subsequent application station (20).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein said step of arranging a strip (W) having a plurality of labels provides for obtaining said labels having a decoration or a decorative layer and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container (C).

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