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

Abstract

An applicator unit (10) for labels (L) comprises a support structure (11), a feed station (12) for a strip (W) and an application station (20) for each label (L) comprising an abutment member (25) having a labelling surface (25a). Wherein the applicator unit comprises adjustment means (40) connected to said abutment member (25) for orienting it in a plurality of operating configurations with respect to a reference surface so as to allow an adjustment of a positioning of the labelling surface (25a) as a function of a shape of the wall of a container (C) to be labelled.

Description

[0001] 21 February 2025

[0002] TRANSLATION (RULE 12.3)

[0003] “APPLICATOR UNIT OF LABELS FOR A LABELLING MACHINE, LABELLING MACHINE COMPRISING SAID APPLICATOR UNIT AND METHOD FOR APPLYING LABELS”

[0004] * * * * *

[0005] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0006] 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.

[0007] 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.

[0008] 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 the strip of labels.

[0009] 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.

[0010] An example of such labels is commercially known with the name Signite® and is described, for example, in patent EP3294825.

[0011] However, the present invention can also be used on other types of labels of a different type to what is cited here above.

[0012] STATE OF THE ART

[0013] The use of labelling machines equipped with at least one applicator unit configured to apply at least one label on a surface of a 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 comprises a support structure, a work head connected to the support structure and having an operating zone of contact between a label to be applied and a surface of a wall of a container.

[0014] The known applicator unit 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.

[0015] The known applicator unit further comprises at least one recovery reel to recover the strip at the end of application of the labels, and guide means rotatably mounted onto the support structure, configured to guide the strip along a path from the feed reel to the recovery reel at least partially passing through said operating zone of contact of the work head.

[0016] The applicator unit of the known type is reversibly associable with a conveyor, for example a rotating carousel, configured to move, in particular in a synchronised manner, a plurality of containers to be labelled towards the operating zone of contact of the work head. Each label is applied on a corresponding container during the movement of the container itself through the aforesaid operating zone of contact of the work head. However, the known applicator units have proved to be unsuitable for use of the aforementioned labels (i.e. 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.

[0017] In order to overcome this drawback, several application systems for said labels have been developed, which are described, for example, in patent EP3907148.

[0018] 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. In addition, these known systems have proved to be not very versatile and not able to operate on containers with non-cylindrical surfaces.

[0019] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0020] 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 only 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.

[0021] A further object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels, a labelling machine and a method for applying labels, of the type mentioned here above (preferably Signite®), which has a greater degree of flexibility and adjustment.

[0022] A further object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels, a labelling machine and a method for applying labels which allows a label comprising a decoration or a decorative layer, and configured to transfer such decoration or decorative layer (preferably Signite®), onto a wall of a container in a secure and reliable manner and with a final degree of quality repeatable over time for a high number of operating cycles of the applicator unit itself.

[0023] A further object of the present invention is to provide an applicator unit for labels (preferably Signite®), a labelling machine and a method or applying labels, that has an alternative and / or improved configuration, both in constructive and functional terms, with respect to the traditional known solutions.

[0024] SUMMARY

[0025] In this context, the technical task at the basis 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 that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art.

[0026] In particular, the aforesaid objects are achieved with an applicator unit for labels in accordance with the features set forth in claim 1 .

[0027] The dependent claims outline particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0028] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] 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:

[0030] - figure 1 shows, according to a perspective view, an applicator unit for labels according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0031] - figure 2A shows, according to a partial top plan view, the applicator unit illustrated in figure 1 in a configuration associated with a conveyor for containers;

[0032] - figure 2B shows, according to an enlarged partial view, a detail of the unit illustrated in figure 2A;

[0033] - figure 3 shows, according to a partial perspective view, a part of the applicator unit illustrated in figure 1 ;

[0034] - figure 4 shows, according to a top plan view, the part illustrated in figure 3;

[0035] - figure 5 shows, according to a side plan view, the part illustrated in figure 3;

[0036] - figure 6 shows, according to an exploded perspective view, the part illustrated in figure 3.

[0037] 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.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 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.

[0039] 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 wine.

[0040] The term “strip” should be understood to mean, for the purposes of the present description, a band or a strip having a predefined length and width thereof and comprising a plurality of labels arranged at intervals of regular distance from each other along an extension direction of the strip itself. In particular, the labels 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 of the Signite® type.

[0041] In the description that follows, reference will be made to labels having any shape, for example square, rectangular, circular, oval or others, or dimensions, or obtained in several pieces separate from each other, on a surface of a wall of a container, in particular at a cylindrical portion of a wall of a bottle.

[0042] 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 zone of a wine bottle, or on surfaces having a particular shape, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the present description.

[0043] According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in figure 2B, 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 the 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, in particular a bottle.

[0044] As illustrated in figure 2A, the applicator unit 10 is operatively associable with a conveyor G (introduced and described in greater detail below) on which a plurality of moving containers C are positioned in use.

[0045] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in figure 1 , the applicator unit 10 comprises a support structure 11 extending prevalently along a longitudinal axis Y-Y, preferably substantially parallel to the ground, i.e. horizontal (see figure 1 ).

[0046] In particular, the longitudinal axis Y-Y belongs to a plane orthogonal to the ground (i.e. vertical) and oriented in accordance with a radial direction with respect to the centre of rotation of the conveyor G (in the case of a conveyor G of the rotating carousel type).

[0047] According to an aspect of the invention, the support structure 11 extends between a first end 11 a and a second end 11 b opposite to the first end 11 a, and has a substantially plate-like shape, i.e. substantially planar, and is configured to carry mounted a plurality of operating units or stations, such as those described below.

[0048] The support structure 11 is made of a metallic material, such as for example steel or an aluminium alloy, so as to give strength and rigidity to the applicator unit 10 during its operation.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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).

[0052] Preferably, the rollers 12a, 12b, 12c are arranged parallel to each other and orthogonal to the respective resting surface.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] According to an aspect of the invention, the applicator unit 10 preferably 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. Preferably, each of the diverter rollers 13” is mounted rotatably idle on the support structure 11 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] Advantageously, the diverter rollers 13” cooperate with the feed station 12 and allow the strip W to be conveyed along the desired labelling path.

[0058] As mentioned above, the applicator unit 10 comprises the application station 20 for a label L facing, in use, towards the conveyor G and arranged at a second end 11 b of the support structure 11 .

[0059] In more detail, the application station 20 comprises an abutment member 25 having a labelling surface 25a, in use, abutted against the rear surface of the strip W2 to define an abutment for the application of each label L towards a wall of respective containers C approaching the abutment member 25.

[0060] In other words, the labelling surface 25a is a surface on which a transfer of a label L from the strip W to the wall of a container C to be labelled occurs, in particular cyclically (i.e. at substantially regular intervals of time from each other).

[0061] According to an aspect of the invention illustrated in figure 3, the application station 20 and in particular the abutment member 25 protrude projecting from the support structure 11 along the longitudinal axis Y-Y. Preferably, the labelling surface 25a of the abutment member 25 protrudes with respect to the direction of advancement of the containers C so as to obtain a pressure on the wall of the containers C on which the label L is applied.

[0062] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in figures 3 to 6, the applicator unit 10 comprises adjustment means 40 connected to the abutment member 25 for orienting it in a plurality of operating configurations with respect to a reference surface that is vertical and transverse, preferably orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis Y-Y, so as to allow an adjustment of a positioning of the labelling surface 25a as a function of a shape of the wall of a container C.

[0063] For example, these configurations provide for orienting the abutment member so that the labelling surface 25a is:

[0064] - 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);

[0065] - 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;

[0066] - oriented according to a combination of the two inclinations and movements described above.

[0067] In more detail, such reference surface is an ideal surface and representative of a corresponding reference position of the abutment member 25 (see figure 3 and 4).

[0068] According to an aspect of the invention, the adjustment means 40 is interposed between the support structure 11 and the abutment member 25. Advantageously, the adjustment means 40 is configured to vary the positioning, and therefore orientation, of the labelling surface 25a with respect to the aforesaid reference surface so as to allow the labelling surface 25a to assume a plurality of orientations, with respect to the reference surface, to adapt to the shape of a surface portion of a wall of a container C.

[0069] In accordance with an embodiment illustrated in the appended figures, the adjustment means 40 is configured to define at least one rotation movement and / or at least one translation movement of said abutment member 25 with respect to the support structure 11 . More specifically, the adjustment means 40 is movable along a first axis Z-Z orthogonal to the longitudinal axis Y-Y and a second axis R-R orthogonal to the first axis Z-Z and to the longitudinal axis Y-Y. In other words, the first axis Z-Z is orthogonal to a plane along which the support structure 11 extends (i.e. a plane orthogonal to the ground), whereas the second axis R-R is orthogonal to the first axis Z-Z, i.e. parallel to the ground (see figure 3).

[0070] The first axis Z-Z and the second axis R-R respectively represent a first and second direction along which the adjustment means 40 is movable.

[0071] As illustrated in figures 3 to 6, the adjustment means 40 is coupled to the abutment member 25 by means of a coupling of the cylindrical joint type, so as to define the at least rotation movement and / or the at least translation movement respectively along the first axis Z-Z and / or the second axis R-R. The adjustment means 40 couples the abutment member 25 to the support structure 11 and allow the abutment member 25 itself to perform the movement described above.

[0072] In other words, the adjustment means 40 defines with the abutment member 25 a mechanical coupling, in particular a cylindrical kinematic pair, comprising at least two rigid bodies (as described in greater detail below) and configured to define respectively the aforesaid translation and / or rotation on the first axis Z-Z.

[0073] The term “cylindrical joint” or “cylindrical kinematic pair” is intended to identify the aforesaid coupling, which defines at least a rigid rotary movement and / or at least a rigid translation movement along respectively the first axis Z-Z and / or the second axis R-R.

[0074] In more detail, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated, the adjustment means 40 comprises at least a first pin 41 a (preferably two first pins 41 a) mounted on the support structure 11 and extending along a first axis Z-Z, defining a first rigid body of the cylindrical joint.

[0075] The adjustment means 40 further comprises a second pin 41 b connected to the first pin 41 a and extending along the second axis R-R, defining a second rigid body of the cylindrical joint. The adjustment means 40 further comprises a plurality of locking members 42 interposed between the first pin 41 a and the second pin 41 b and between the second pin 41 b and the abutment member 25.

[0076] In more detail, each of the locking members 42 defines a third rigid body configured to define a first cylindrical joint with the first pin 41 a along the first axis Z-Z, and a second cylindrical joint with the second pin 41 b along the second axis R-R.

[0077] In other words, the locking members 42 are configured to connect the first pin 41 a and the second pin 41 b with each other, and to be moved along the first axis Z-Z and the second axis R-R so as to define the aforesaid cylindrical joints.

[0078] According to an aspect of the invention, the adjustment means 40 preferably comprises two locking members 42.

[0079] In particular, at least one locking member 42a (preferably two first locking members 42a) that defines a first cylindrical joint between the first pin 41 a and the abutment member 25, allowing the latter an adjustment of its position by means of a translation and / or rotation movement with respect to the first axis Z-Z; and a second locking member 42b that defines a second cylindrical joint between the second pin 41 b and the abutment member 25, allowing the latter an adjustment of its position by means of a translation and / or rotation movement with respect to the second axis R-R.

[0080] In other words, the abutment member 25 has two degrees of freedom corresponding with the same number of two translation movements along the first axis Z-Z and the second axis R-R.

[0081] In addition, the abutment member 25 has one degree of freedom corresponding with one rotation movement around the first axis Z-Z.

[0082] In yet other words, a translation movement along the first pin 41a and a rotation movement along the same first pin 41 a performed by the locking member 42a defines the first cylindrical joint; whereas a translation movement along the second pin 41 b and a rotation movement along the same second pin 41 b performed by the second locking member 42b defines the second cylindrical joint.

[0083] According to an aspect of the invention, each of the locking members 42a, 42b is reversibly connected in a sliding manner to the first and second pin 41a, 41 b so as to define the coupling of the cylindrical joint type cited here above.

[0084] More specifically, as illustrated in figure 3 and 6, each of the locking members 42a, 42b comprises a main body 420a, and a stop portion 421 b movable towards and / or away from the main body 420a.

[0085] In particular, the stop portion 421 b is movable between an adjustment configuration in which the stop portion 421 b is slack with respect to said main body 42a - and therefore allows a translation and / or rotation movement of the first and second locking member 42a, 42b along respectively the first and / or second pin 41 a, 41 b - and a locking configuration in which the stop portion 421 b is clamped against the main body 420a so as to abut against the same main body 420a, and lock any movement.

[0086] According to an aspect of the invention, each locking member 42a, 42b comprises fixing means, preferably of the threaded type 29 (e.g. screws or similar), configured to define the aforesaid adjustment configuration of clamping between the stop portion 421 b and the main body 420a.

[0087] In other words, the main body 420a and the stop portion 421 b of each locking member 42a, 42b are mechanically connected to each other by means of screws 29.

[0088] Operatively, an operator operates each screw 29 (loosening it or tightening it) so as to allow a corresponding movement of a respective locking member along the first pin 41 a or the second pin 41 b.

[0089] Preferably, as illustrated in the appended figures, the abutment member 25 comprises connecting rods, in particular a first and second rod 26a, 26b, each extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y and configured to connect slidably with the respective locking members 42. More specifically, the first and second rod 26a, 26b are adapted to be inserted slidably into corresponding passage holes obtained on the locking member.

[0090] Advantageously, the abutment member 25 has a further degree of freedom corresponding with an adjustment along the longitudinal axis Y-Y to abut in a predefined position with respect to the conveyor G.

[0091] The position of the aforesaid locking members 42a, 42b, 42c and the position of the first and second rod 26a, 26b is locked by corresponding fixing screws 29, as illustrated in figure 6.

[0092] Preferably, the adjustment means 40 comprises a third locking member 42c, mounted on the second pin 41 b and configured to connect the abutment member 25 to the second pin 41 b itself.

[0093] In more detail, as illustrated in figure 4 and 6, the first rod 26a of the abutment member 25 is configured to connect to the second locking member 42b, whereas the second rod 26b is configured to connect to the third locking member 42c.

[0094] Insofar as concerns the lateral inclination of the abutment member 25 (with respect to the reference surface so that it protrudes more towards the containers C in the right-hand part and protrudes less towards the containers C in the left-hand part or vice versa), such movement can be obtained by at least two alternative or complementary embodiments.

[0095] According to a first embodiment, each of the aforesaid second and third locking members 42b, 42c comprises respectively a bottom portion rotatably constrained to each main body 420a of the aforesaid locking members 42b, 42c and having a passage opening configured to be slidably crossed by the first and second rod 26a, 26b.

[0096] In particular, these rotating bottom portions allow a lateral inclination of the abutment member 25 to be obtained by means of a rotation thereof around a respective vertical axis, i.e. parallel to the first axis Z-Z. In addition, the lateral inclination of the abutment member 25 can be obtained by means of a movement of at least one of the locking members 42b, 42c along the second axis R-R so as to move them away from and close to each other.

[0097] Preferably, the lateral inclination of the abutment member 25 can be obtained by means of a combination of the aforesaid movements (rotation of the bottom portions and movement of the locking members 42b, 42c).

[0098] In accordance with a second embodiment, each first and second rod 26a, 26b comprises respective joints 27 interposed between the rod 26a, 26b itself and the abutment member 25 (preferably arranged in proximity to the abutment member 25) and configured to obtain a possible rotation around an axis parallel to the first axis Z-Z.

[0099] In this manner, the abutment member 25 is inclinable laterally thanks to the joints 27 themselves. Preferably, such rotary movement of the joints 27 can be assisted by the movement of the first and / or second rod 26a, 26b along the second axis R-R to move the rods close to or away from each other.

[0100] These two embodiments allow the lateral inclination of the abutment member to be implemented, in an alternative way (one is present and not the other or vice versa).

[0101] As a further alternative embodiment, for example illustrated in figures 2A and 4, in order to obtain this lateral inclination, it is possible to combine together the two embodiments just mentioned so as to have a dual adjustment both by means of the bottom portion of the aforesaid locking members 42b, 42c, and by means of the joints 27.

[0102] According to an aspect of the invention, each locking member 42a, 42b, 42c preferably comprises at least one screw 29 intended to lock it in position, in particular at the end of an adjustment operation, respectively on the first pin 41 a and on the second pin 41 b.

[0103] According to an aspect of the invention, in particular illustrated in figure 5- 6, the main body 420a and the stop portion 421 b comprise respective wedge-shaped locking surfaces to define in the adjustment configuration the cylindrical joint-type coupling with the first and second pin 41 a, 41 b. In other words, the main body 420a and the stop portion 421 b comprise wedge-shaped surfaces, i.e. inclined to each other, so as to abut against a cylindrical surface of the first and the second pin 41 a, 41 b.

[0104] Advantageously, the aforesaid wedge-shaped surfaces allow the stop portion 421 b and the main body 420a of each locking member 42 to move along respective cylindrical surfaces of the first and second pin 41 a, 41 b.

[0105] In accordance with an embodiment illustrated in the appended figures, the abutment member 25 is obtained, at least partially, in a polymeric material, elastically deformable, preferably soft.

[0106] In more detail, the term “soft” is intended to mean a material that is easily deformable when placed in contact with a rigid body, for example a glass bottle placed in movement against an abutment member 25.

[0107] In other words, the abutment member 25 is obtained, at least partially, in a yielding material.

[0108] Preferably, the abutment member 25 can be coated with a film (for example of various materials, for example PTFE) which allows a particular yield to be obtained on contact with the container. This coating film is glued to the abutment member 25 and is preferably fixed behind the abutment member 25 itself by means of two fixing elements 28 (e.g. vertical sheets with relative screws - figure 4).

[0109] Advantageously, the abutment member 25 is able to adapt to the external shape of a surface of a wall of a container to be labelled, and therefore allows containers having a plurality of shapes of respective walls to be labelled.

[0110] According to an aspect of the invention, the labelling surface 25a of the abutment member 25 has a curved shape in order to abut against a corresponding curved surface of a wall of a container C to be labelled, in particular a surface of a cylindrical and / or conical and / or curved wall generically of a bottle (for example a wine bottle). According to an aspect of the invention, the labels L 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 C.

[0111] In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the appended figures, in particular in figure 2A, the applicator unit 10 comprises a preparation station 90 for the labels L, mounted on the support structure 11 in a position between the first end 11 a and the second end 11 b. In particular, the preparation station 90 comprises a blade member 91 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 L with respect to the support surface of the strip W.

[0112] More specifically, the blade element 91 has a preferably substantially platelike shape, i.e. substantially planar and arranged oriented to divert the strip W of labels L towards the abutment member 25 before a labelling operation occurs.

[0113] In fact, according to an aspect of the invention, the blade member 91 is projecting with respect to the support structure 11 along a transverse direction to the longitudinal axis Y-Y, so as to impose on the strip W a direction exiting from the blade member 91 that is inclined in accordance with a predefined angle of inclination cp (see figure 2A).

[0114] According to an aspect of the invention, the blade member 91 extends between an inlet portion 91 a and an outlet portion 91 b, and preferably comprises a connection, i.e. a radius of curvature, at an edge thereof proximal to the outlet portion 91 b.

[0115] Advantageously, the blade member 91 thus obtained, i.e. arranged so as to form the aforesaid angle of inclination cp and having its own radius of curvature, allows weakening of the adhesion of each label L on the strip W for their easy detachment from the strip W and transfer onto a surface of a wall of a container C. It should, in any case, be noted that the shape of the blade member 91 could differ from the one described above, provided it is shaped to obtain the scraping function thereof.

[0116] Alternatively, according to an aspect of the invention, not illustrated in the appended figures, the blade member 91 can be obtained in accordance with an elongated “slat” shape along a substantially vertical direction, i.e. parallel to the first axis Z-Z.

[0117] In other words, the blade member 91 is substantially a longitudinal bar with a substantially constant section, and configured to be placed in contact with the strip W of labels L at an edge thereof.

[0118] Preferably, the blade member 91 according to the aforesaid embodiment has a shape of a transverse section thereof that is preferably square, rectangular, polygonal or similar. Advantageously, the applicator unit 10 is particularly efficient, as it allows high production speeds to be reached, intended as meaning a high number of containers labelled in the unit of time, or at least higher than the applicator units of the prior art.

[0119] The present invention also relates to a labelling machine 101 for applying labels on a wall of a container C, in particular bottles, for which the same numbering will be retained for the sake of descriptive simplicity.

[0120] In particular, the labelling machine 101 comprises a conveyor G configured to move a plurality of containers C along a feed direction, wherein each container C is positioned (in use) in a peripheral edge portion of the conveyor G.

[0121] According to an aspect of the invention, the conveyor G comprises a rotating carousel or a linear conveyor, preferably straight.

[0122] More specifically, as illustrated in figure 2A and 4, the conveyor G has a substantially circular shape (according to a top plan view), entirely similar to a rotary drum and configured to rotate around a rotation axis substantially orthogonal to the ground, i.e. parallel to the first axis Z-Z.

[0123] The labelling machine 101 further comprises at least one applicator unit 10 for labels L having one or more of the previously described features. In particular, the applicator unit 10 is reversibly associable with the conveyor G and arranged proximal to a peripheral edge portion so as to apply a label on each container C.

[0124] In other words, the applicator unit 10 and in particular the abutment member 25 is configured to be arranged proximal to a zone of the external dimension of the conveyor G, so as to obtain a work zone at which the labelling of each container C takes place. Each container C is moved by means of the conveyor G and performs a rotation movement around the rotation axis of the conveyor G itself.

[0125] According to an aspect of the invention, a speed with which the containers C are moved is synchronised with a movement speed of the strip W of labels L so that the label is positioned at the labelling surface 25a before a container C to be labelled arrives in proximity to the labelling surface 25a itself.

[0126] In other words, the applicator unit comprises synchronisation means, configured to synchronise a speed of the containers (and therefore of the conveyor) and a movement speed of the strip W, so that each label is positioned on a labelling surface 25a of the abutment member 25 before each container C arrives in said position.

[0127] According to an aspect of the invention, each container C is mounted on a rotating plate (not shown in the appended figures) synchronised in rotation, so that each container rotates around its own respective rotation axis substantially orthogonal to the ground when it passes through the labelling abutment.

[0128] In particular, insofar as concerns the synchronisation step, there are at least several alternative embodiments:

[0129] - 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 - 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 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. The present invention also relates to a method for applying labels (preferably Signite®) on a wall of a container, in particular bottles, for which the same numerical references will be retained for the sake of descriptive simplicity.

[0130] In more detail, the method comprising the following operating steps:

[0131] - arranging a plurality of containers C at a peripheral edge portion of a conveyor G of a labelling machine 101 ;

[0132] - arranging an applicator unit 10 having one or more of the previously described features;

[0133] - associating the applicator unit 10 with the conveyor G so as to define an operating zone for applying a label L;

[0134] - feeding the applicator unit 10 with a strip W of labels L so as to make a path passing, at least partially, across the labelling surface 25a.

[0135] The method for applying labels further comprises a step of adjusting the abutment member 25 through adjustment means 40 (described previously) configured to reversibly connect the abutment member 25 to the applicator unit 10 and move it in a plurality of working positions so as to orient the abutment member 25 with the labelling surface 25a thereof in accordance with a shape of a surface of a container C to be labelled. Furthermore, the step of feeding said applicator unit 10 with a strip W of labels L comprises a step of arranging said labels L with a decoration or a decorative layer, which are configured to transfer only such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container.

[0136] 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.

[0137] From what has been described, the applicator unit, according to the invention, is particularly advantageous in that:

[0138] - it is capable of overcoming, at least partially, the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above;

[0139] - is it capable of applying labels on a plurality of shapes of surfaces of walls of containers,

[0140] It is clear from the description above how the applicator unit for labels that is an object of the present invention allows the intended purposes to be achieved.

[0141] The present invention has been illustrated and described in a preferred embodiment thereof, but it is understood that embodiment variations can be made thereto in practice, without however going beyond the scope of protection of the present patent for an industrial invention.

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 the 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, in particular a bottle, wherein said applicator unit (10) being operatively associable with a conveyor (G) on which a plurality of moving containers (C) are positioned in use, said applicator unit (10) comprising:- a support structure (11 ) extending prevalently along a longitudinal axis (Y-Y),- a feed station (12) for the strip (W) operatively associated with the support structure (11 ), and- an application station (20) for each label (L) facing, in use, towards the conveyor (G) and comprising an abutment member (25) having a labelling surface (25a), in use, abutted against the rear surface of the strip (W2) to define an abutment for the application of each label (L) towards a wall of respective containers (C) approaching said abutment member (25), characterised in that it comprises adjustment means (40) connected to said abutment member (25) for orienting it in a plurality of operating configurations with respect to a reference surface transverse to said longitudinal axis (Y-Y) so as to allow an adjustment of a positioning of the labelling surface (25a) as a function of a shape of the wall of a container (C) to be labelled, wherein said adjustment means (40) is configured to define at least one rotation movement of said abutment member (25) with respect to said support structure (11 ).

2. The applicator unit (10) according to claim 1 , wherein said adjustment means (40) defines a plurality of configurations in which the labelling surface (25a) is:- inclined laterally with respect to the reference surface so that it protrudes more towards the containers (C) in the right-hand part and protrudes less towards the containers (C) in the left-hand part or vice versa;- movable along a horizontal and / or vertical direction;- oriented according to a combination of the above-described inclinations and movements.

3. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adjustment means (40) is movable along a first axis (Z-Z) orthogonal to said longitudinal axis (Y-Y) and a second axis (R-R) orthogonal to said first axis (Z-Z) and said longitudinal axis (Y-Y).

4. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adjustment means (40) is coupled to said adjustment member (25) by means of a coupling of the cylindrical joint type, so as to define said at least rotation movement and / or said at least translation movement respectively along said first axis (Z-Z) and / or said second axis (R-R).

5. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein said adjustment means (40) comprises:- at least a first pin (41 a) mounted on said support structure (11 ) and extending along said first axis (Z-Z);- a second pin (41 b) connected to said first pin (41 a) and extending along said second axis (Z-Z);- a plurality of locking members (42) interposed between said first pin (41 a) and said second pin (41 b) and between said second pin (41 b) and said abutment member (25) wherein each of said locking members (42) being reversibly connected in a sliding manner to said first and second pin (41 a, 41 b) so as to define said coupling of the cylindrical joint type.

6. The applicator unit (10) according to claim 5, wherein each of said locking members (42) comprises:- at least one main body (42a), and- a stop portion (42b) which can be moved closer to and / or farther away with respect to said main body (42a); wherein said stop portion (42b) being movable between an adjustment configuration in which said stop portion (42b) is slack with respect to said main body (42a) and a locking configuration in which said stop portion (42b) is clamped against the main body (42a) so as to abut against the same main body (42a).

7. The applicator unit (10) according to claim 6, wherein said main body (42a) and said stop portion (42b) comprise respective wedge-shaped locking surfaces to define in said adjustment configuration the cylindrical joint-type coupling with said first and second pin (41a, 41 b).

8. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said abutment member (25) is made of a polymeric, elastically deformable, preferably soft material.

9. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said labelling surface (25a) of said abutment member (25) has a curved form shaped to abut against a corresponding curved surface of a wall a container (C) to be labelled.

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

11. The applicator unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a preparation station (90) for said labels (L), mounted on said support structure (11 ) in a position between said first end (11 a) and said second end (11 b); said preparation station (90) comprising a blade member (91 ) 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 (L) with respect to the support surface of the strip (W).

12. A labelling machine (101 ) for applying labels onto a wall of a container (C), in particular bottles, comprising:- a conveyor (G) configured to move a plurality of containers (C) along a feed direction, wherein each container (C) is positioned in use in a peripheral edge portion of said conveyor (G);- at least one applicator unit (10) for labels (L) having the characteristics according to one or more of claims 1 to 11 , wherein said applicator unit (10) being reversibly associable with said conveyor (G) and arranged proximal to a peripheral edge portion thereof so as to apply a label onto each container (C).

13. The labelling machine (101 ) according to claim 12, wherein said conveyor (G) comprises a rotating carousel or a linear conveyor, preferably straight.

14. A method for applying labels onto a wall of a container, in particular bottles, comprising the following operating steps:- arranging a plurality of containers (C) at a peripheral edge portion of a conveyor (G) of a labelling machine (101 );- arranging an applicator unit (10) having the characteristics according to one or more of claims 1 to 12;- associating said applicator unit (10) with the conveyor (G) so as to define an operating zone for applying a label (L);- feeding said applicator unit (10) with a strip (W) of labels (L) so as to make a path passing, at least partially, through the labelling surface (25a); characterised in that it comprises a step of adjusting the abutment member (25) through adjustment means (40) configured to reversibly connect said abutment member (25) to said applicator unit (10) and move it in a plurality of working positions so as to orient said abutment member (25) with the labelling surface (25a) thereof in accordance with a shape of asurface of a container (C) to be labelled; wherein said adjustment step provides for defining, through said adjustment means (40), at least one rotation movement of said abutment member (25) with respect to said support structure (11 ).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein said step of feeding said applicator unit (10) with a strip (W) of labels (L) comprises a step of arranging said labels (L) with a decoration or a decorative layer which are configured to transfer only such decoration or decorative layer onto a surface of a wall of a container.

Images