Abstract: An overhead label print and apply system includes a conveyance path, a common label applier located above the conveyance path, a first label print and dispense unit and a second label print and dispense unit. The first label print and dispense unit is positionable to feed printed labels to the common label applier. The second label print and dispense unit is positionable to feed printed labels to the common label applier.

Abstract: A label applying system includes a conveyance path for moving an item in a conveyance direction, and a label applicator With an elongated label applying arm pivotably moveable between a label load position spaced away from the item and a label apply position in which a free end of the elongated label applying arm is moved into contact with the item. The elongated label applying arm is configured to be sufficiently flexible such that at least a label carrying portion of the elongated label applying arm bends, as it moves into contact with the item, for pressing a label against the item.

Abstract: A labeling system includes a frame component pivotal between a label load position, a first label apply position and a second label apply position. A vacuum applicator is carried on the frame component for movement with the frame component. A first actuator is configured for pivoting the frame component between the label load position and the first label apply position. A second actuator is configured for pivoting the frame component from the label load position to the second label apply position. The second label apply position is located between the label load position and the first label apply position. The labeling system can be used to apply one label to the leading side of an item moving along a conveyance path, and to apply another label to the lateral side of the same item.

Abstract: A method of printing and applying a label to an item moving in a conveyance direction along a conveyance path involves: utilizing a print and labeling assembly that includes a label stock path that feeds label stock past a printer to print on a label of the label stock to produce a printed label that is dispensed in a first direction onto a label applying belt that moves in a second direction, wherein the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction such that the printed label moves onto the label applying belt from a lateral side of the label applying belt; and the label applying belt moves the printed label into position to engage with the item as it moves along the conveyance path. A label print and apply system and apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: An in-line label applicator includes a label printer to print variable data on each label and a label application station that moves the printed labels into a container conveyance path for application to containers moving along the path. One scanner scans the label code of each printed label before the label reaches the conveyance path, and another scanner scans the helper code of each container as the label is being applied during movement of the container along the conveyance path.

Abstract: Labeling apparatuses for labeling moving items are disclosed having a label release mechanism for releasing labels from a backing, a plate having a support surface with at least one opening through the plate, a fan positioned to create a negative pressure effect at the support surface of the plate, and a free-spinning roller positioned at a downstream end of the support surface for receiving labels that pass along the support surface. The roller has an outer surface portion that includes a nip zone for contacting a moving item application surface to which the label will be applied. A method of applying a label using the disclosed labeling apparatuses is also disclosed and includes utilizing a label support surface and a free-spinning roller, receiving a label, generating a negative pressure effect, supporting the label as it travels to the nip zone, and adhering the label to the moving item.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of determining bearing and distance measurements between a mobile device and an object using Rf based measurements. The mobile device communicates with a control in the object to determine the relative bearing between the mobile device and the object with respect to magnetic north and, optionally, the distance between the mobile device and the object. An indicator on the mobile device aid in directing s the user of the mobile device toward the object as the mobile device is moved relative to the object. The mobile device can be a key fob and the object can be a vehicle.