Abstract: An automatic, high speed labeling machine is provided for applying individual labels to large and variable size produce items. The label strips used are much larger and heavier than known label strips used for small produce such as apples and pears. The increased weight causes label strip overrun when the labeler is paused and also causes slippage of the label strip. A label strip deflector is provided which causes the larger and heavier label strip to fold back on itself rather than to overrun and foul the application of labels. The drive rollers are modified to eliminate slippage of the heavier label strip.

Abstract: An automatic, high speed labeling machine is provided for applying individual labels to large and variable size produce items. The label strips used are much larger and heavier than known label strips used for small produce such as apples and pears. The increased weight causes label strip overrun when the labeler is paused and also causes slippage of the label strip. A label strip deflector is provided which causes the larger and heavier label strip to fold back on itself rather than to overrun and foul the application of labels. The drive rollers are modified to eliminate slippage of the heavier label strip.

Abstract: An automatic high speed labeling machine with an improved label stripper is provided capable of applying 700 to 1,000 labels to individual produce items in a single lane, without tearing the label carrier strip. The improved label stripper has a contoured surface wherein only the center section contacts the label carrier strip. The edges of the carrier strip are prevented from contacting the label stripper surface.

Abstract: An automatic high speed labeling machine with an improved label stripper is provided capable of applying 700 to 1,000 labels to individual produce items in a single lane, without tearing the label carrier strip. The improved label stripper has a contoured surface wherein only the center section contacts the label carrier strip. The edges of the carrier strip are prevented from contacting the label stripper surface.

Abstract: A high speed automatic produce labeling system is provided, having a label dispense cycle of less than 17 milliseconds and capable of dispensing and applying 1,000 labels per minute per lane. First and second direct gear drives are actuated by a single stepper motor. A removable label cassette is driven by the first direct gear drive; the cassette carries a label carrier strip. An improved Geneva wheel drive forms part of the first gear drive which substantially reduces jerk and tearing of the label carrier strip while maintaining high labeling speed. The label cassette includes several quick-change components allowing the system to apply different size labels. An improved tensioning system is provided, minimizing slipping and tearing of the label carrier strip. An improved stripper plate tip actuator is also provided.