Abstract: The present invention provides a non-round container labeling machine and corresponding method. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a labeling machine for applying a label to a non-round container or article where the non-round article has a series of corners located about its surface. The labeling machine according to the present invention includes a rotatable vacuum drum, the drum including engaging means for rotatably engaging the corners of the non-round articles. The labeling machine includes a label associated with the engaging means and a resilient roll on pad means. The labeling machine further includes means for rotating the non-round article between the drum and roll on pad means wherein the engaging means engages a first corner to rotate the article between the drum and the pad means such that the drum generates a torque which rotates the article as the drum rotates and which compresses the roll on pad means such that the pad means stores compressed torque energy.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of labeling cylindrical articles feeds labels onto a label drum. The labels have a formed curl such that the leading edge tends to curl away from the surface of the label drum. The article is fed onto the label drum and wrapped by engaging the article with the leading edge of the label and then wrapping the article. An uncut label web can be fed over an edge to impart the desired curl to the label web. The label web is then cut into labels, which are fed onto the label drum. Also, the tension of the label over the edge can be varied so as to vary the amount of curl imparted to the label.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for labeling containers allows labeling of containers by wrap around labeling without applying an adhesive on the leading edge of the label. Labels are held on a label drum and moved into a label applying position while containers are fed into the label applying position. Air is blown from a first position on the label drum onto the leading edge of the label at an angle to the label drum surface and in a direction backward along the label from the leading edge to force the leading edge of the label against the container, while also minimizing the laminar flow of air under the label. After the leading edge of the label has engaged the container, air is blown from a second position on the label drum spaced from the first position onto the label and container at an angle to the label drum surface to maintain a laminar flow of air over the label and maintain the label tight against the container during container rotation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for labeling containers allows labeling of containers by wrap around labeling without applying an adhesive on the leading edge of the label. Labels are held on a label drum and moved into a label applying position while containers are fed into the label applying position. Air is blown from the label drum onto the leading edge of the label at an angle to the label drum surface and in a direction backward along the label from the leading edge to force the leading edge of the label against the container. The leading edge is maintained on the container by wet adhesion or by air which is blown onto the label and container from the side opposite the label drum.