Abstract: Labeling apparatus and method cuts labels from a web of label material after adhesive is applied to the web of material. Under one embodiment heated knives are carried on a vacuum drum which cooperates with a roller functioning as an anvil to cut the web into labels of the appropriate length. A sensor reads a mark of the indicia side of the web and controls movement of the web to assure proper registration. Under a second embodiment, a rotatable drum having a plurality of vacuum plates cooperates with a die cutting roller to cut labels of the desired shape. The cut labels are retained on the vacuum applicator plates which then are extended radially as they rotate to a position to apply the label to a container.

Abstract: Labeling apparatus and method cuts labels from a web of label material after adhesive is applied to the web of material. Under one embodiment heated knives are carried on a vacuum drum which cooperates with a roller functioning as an anvil to cut the web into labels of the appropriate length. A sensor reads a mark of the indicia side of the web and controls movement of the web to assure proper registration. Under a second embodiment, a rotatable drum having a plurality of vacuum plates cooperates with a die cutting roller to cut labels of the desired shape. The cut labels are retained on the vacuum applicator plates which then are extended radially as they rotate to a position to apply the label to a container.

Abstract: An improved adhesive application assembly (70) for a labeling machine (2) includes an adhesive sprayer (76) which directs heated adhesive (88) towards labels (60) passing the adhesive application station (70). A moving heated adhesive shield (80) includes one or more windows (84), through which the adhesive is sprayed, surrounded by a heated overspray-intercepting surface (90). The intercepted adhesive is collected for reuse.

Abstract: A method is disclosed whereby water is used to transfer labels onto containers in automatic high-speed labeling machines thereby leaving no glue residue on a container's surface, and making them amenable for recycling. The method further provides for adjustment of water's surface tension if necessary by surfactants to cause wettability of a variety of surfaces undergoing labeling, but said label is permanently attached to the container by friction, rather than by glue, after evaporation of the water.

Abstract: Either filled or empty cylindrical containers enter this labeling machine upright on a conveyor which slides beneath them as they are restrained and accumulate in a straight line against a gate for individual admission to a synchronization wheel and timed release between a series of moving parallel belts and stationary pads which laterally engage the container and propel it at various linear and rotational speeds during certain stages of the labeling operation so that the container achieves its greatest linear speeds before and after labeling, its slowest linear but greatest rotational speed during labeling, and moderate linear speeds to enter and exit the machine, thereby resulting in virtual label transfer within one container revolution while maintaining a constant and continuous high speed labeling operation therein.