Plural Interrelated Sensing Means Patents (Class 156/351)
  • Patent number: 6016860
    Abstract: This invention relates to improved apparatus for forming paper board structures in which two corrugated mediums are bonded together at their flute tips. The apparatus comprises: two register rolls for ensuring that the mediums are brought into precise flute tip to flute tip alignment for bonding; dependent electric motors to drive the register rolls in which one roll is driven by a reference motor and the second register roll is driven by a follower motor; location sensing devices associated with each register roll to measure a value related to the location of a position on the periphery of each register roll; control means which compares the measured values for each register roll and if necessary adjusts the voltage or current of the follower motor to maintain alignment of the flute tips of the two mediums.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Amcor Limited
    Inventors: Neil William Shaw, Frederick John Mutimer
  • Patent number: 5992488
    Abstract: A flanging-trimming machine for differently shaped panels having peripheral edges. The machine covers the edges with an irremovable covering strip applied using an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Bortolini Engineering
    Inventor: Francesco Bortolini
  • Patent number: 5979531
    Abstract: A fiber placement head movable with respect to a surface, for placing fiber tows thereon, including a feed assembly for feeding the tows to a front end of the feed assembly where the feed assembly includes first and second sets of feed tow guides, an applicator assembly at the front end to receive the tows and apply such to the surface where the applicator assembly includes first and second sets of applicator tow guides, and a device for rotating the applicator assembly relative to the feed assembly between first and second positions. In the first position, the first set of applicator guides is aligned with the first set of feed guides, and in the second position, the first set of applicator guides is aligned with the second set of feed guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Corporation
    Inventors: Roy L. Barr, Aaron O. Dubberly, Kevin J. Sitton
  • Patent number: 5975178
    Abstract: A base film 9 on which a first pattern 31 is formed and a conductive foil 12 on which a second pattern 32 is formed are laminated by being passed through a gap between laminating rolls 7a, 7b which are provided with an adjusting means for adjusting the gap width and parallelism between them. Then, a relative position between the first pattern 31 and the second pattern 32 is detected. After patterning the conductive foil 12 to form a wiring 12w, displacements of the first pattern 31 and the second pattern 32 are detected, and the gap width and parallelism between the laminating rolls 7a, 7b are adjusted corresponding to the detected displacements. Thus, the laminate can be formed uniformly, and the base film 9 and the wiring 12 can be prevented from being deformed with the release of a residual stress in the patterning step. According to the manufacturing method of a high-precision film carrier tape, highly-integrated semiconductor devices are mounted with high productivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Masashi Otsuka, Hiroaki Kishi
  • Patent number: 5958175
    Abstract: A machine for applying labels distributed uniformly on a strip to items which includes a swinging arm mounted on a support for engaging the items and a drum for driving the strip of labels. The drum is rotated incrementally by a drive mechanism and means are provided for controlling the drive mechanism and for detecting movement of the arm by engagement with an item. The means for detecting movement of the arm detect the initial movement of the arm to thereby initiate the means for controlling the drive mechanism to index the drum through one complete step thus advancing a label for application to the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventors: Nessim Elharrar, Premysl Hartman
  • Patent number: 5922169
    Abstract: A system for applying linerless labels to mailing items includes a label feeder for feeding a continuous length web of linerless label material from a supply roll through a loop path to a label applying station juxtaposed to the path traversed by mailing items conveyed on edge in sequential fashion by a belt conveyor. The label material passes through a web guide and advance assembly to a cutter station operative to sever the label material transversely and create labels of desired height. A paddle member is operative to engage and hold each successive label as it is being severed from the label material web generally simultaneously to adhere the adhesive side of the label against a mailing items passing through the label applying station. The various operating functions of the linerless label applying system may be coordinated by conventional control logic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Bell & Howell Postal Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Chodacki, Jose Pioquinto, Gary VanderSyde, David Haas, K. George Rabindran
  • Patent number: 5895535
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring web alignment at a splice disposed between a trailing end of an expiring web and a leading end of a new web. The apparatus includes a speed monitor monitoring the moving webs. A splice sensor indicates the presence and absence of the splice while an edge sensor provides a signal indicating the position of the edge relative to a reference position. The edge signals are manipulated to provide a skew and offset value which provides a measurement of web alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Alan R. Bentz
  • Patent number: 5861083
    Abstract: Method and equipment for the manufacture of corrugated paper products includes separate heaters for preparing liner and medium components. Data regarding these components is collected and an optimum conditioning for the components is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Inland Paperboard and Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome J. Klockenkemper, Dennis M. Judge, Charles D. Moore
  • Patent number: 5849123
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for aligning webs, such as photographic film or paper, where the trailing edge of an expiring web is spliced to the lead edge of a fresh web. A supporting means having the fresh web thereon in a fixed position is caused to move by sensor means transmitting a signal corresponding to precise positioning of the expiring relative to the fixed position of the fresh web. According to the invention, a programmable controller is used to analyze the signals received from the sensors and directs the movements of the supporting means where the webs are ultimately moved into abutting or overlapping contact and then spliced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Brian Scott Rice
  • Patent number: 5843272
    Abstract: A book marker insertion apparatus includes a cartridge assembly, a separator assembly, a gripper assembly, an elevator assembly and a page spreader assembly. The cartridge assembly holds a roll of marker materials including a plurality of markers on a backing sheet and advances the material to the separator assembly. The separator assembly includes jaws and a peel bar for removing the endmost marker from the backing sheet. The gripper assembly includes rotatable arms which grip the separated end marker and position the separated end marker for insertion into the book. The elevator raises and lowers the gripper assembly from the position for gripping the separated end marker to the position for inserting into the book. The page spreader assembly includes a V-arm with a slot formed therein for receiving the gripper arms and the separated end marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Donald P. DeVale, Peter J. Zarembo, James L. Allen, Philip M. Anthony, III, Randall P. Bell, Aaron B. Eiger, Gerald Fleischfresser, Gregory W. Lantz, Emily Matz, Glenn A. Newby, Kurt T. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5833803
    Abstract: A low pressure actuated labeling apparatus (10) for printing, cutting, and applying labels (L) to articles (A) such as envelopes, packages and parcels. A printing unit (12) prints predetermined information on a label, the label being on a roll (13) of continuous label stock. A cutting unit (14) cuts the label from an end of the roll of stock after the label is printed. The cut label is deposited on a tamper unit (16) which transports the label from a first position (P1) adjacent the cutting unit to a second position (P2) adjacent the article and affixes the label to the article. The tamper unit includes an air supply system (50) for supplying high volume, low pressure air. The system applies a vacuum to the tamper unit during transport of the label by the tamper unit and a forced air pressure on the tamper unit at the second position for moving the tamper unit to apply the label to the article. The air supply means includes a valve means (54) and a blower means (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: ESCO Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: James J. Strohmeyer, Merlin Libby, Barry C. Gleeson
  • Patent number: 5814181
    Abstract: A device for butt welding pipes of thermoplastic plastic includes two pipe clamping units, aligned flush relative to each other, for clamping pipe ends therein. A first of the two units can be moved in the alignment direction by an electric motor and via mechanical drive elements. The reaction force corresponding to the infeed force is supported on the bottom via a support structure and a pipe end held in the second of the two units which is fixed in relation to the bottom. The mobile pipe end, held in the first pipe clamping unit, can be pressed against the fixed pipe end which is clamped in the second pipe clamping unit with a force measurable by a measurement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: Ulrike Richter
    Inventors: Ulrike Richter, Wilfried Hufnagel
  • Patent number: 5788802
    Abstract: A laminator is provided for registering and laminating one or more web or sheet laminae on a web substrate, wherein each lamina has defined, successive areas and indicia provided in predetermined positions relative to the defined areas. The laminator includes feed rollers for feeding a web substrate through the laminator along a path of travel, and an additional feed mechanism for feeding a web or sheets to a drum forming a part of the laminator. The drum is shiftable toward and away from the web substrate between an engaged position in which the drum engages the substrate, and a disengaged position in which the drum is removed from contact with the substrate. A registration system successively registers the web or each sheet on the drum with the substrate, with the defined area of the web or sheet in a desired predetermined relationship to one of the defined areas of the substrate as successive defined areas are brought into a laminating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Preco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles C. Raney
  • Patent number: 5783024
    Abstract: Apparatus and method suitable for making a plurality of laminated substrates by applying a plurality of laminate sheets to corresponding plurality of substrates. The apparatus includes a lamina supply member capable of holding a supply of lamina from which successive sheets of lamina can be cut. A cutter is disposed in the apparatus such that the cutter is capable of cutting through the lamina to provide said successive sheets of laminate. A heater is provided for bonding each successive sheet of laminate to a corresponding substrate whereby the corresponding laminated substrate is formed. The supply of lamina is characterized by a current leading edge. The supply of lamina is cut through along a cutting line at a predetermined distance from the current leading edge of the lamina. This provides a first sheet of laminate having a trailing edge at the cutting line. Cutting also provides the lamina supply with a successive leading edge at the cutting line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: NBS Imaging Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Maurice J. Forkert
  • Patent number: 5783006
    Abstract: Method and equipment for the manufacture of corrugated paper products includes separate heaters for preparing liner and medium components. Data regarding these components is collected and an optimum conditioning for the components is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Inland Paperboard and Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome J. Klockenkemper, Dennis M. Judge, Charles D. Moore
  • Patent number: 5779830
    Abstract: An applicator for applying a flexible tape to a planar sheet having a base, a table, a robotic arm and an applicator head. The applicator head is carried by the robotic arm and includes a cradle for receiving a spool of flexible tape. The robotic arm moves the applicator head through the Cartesian coordinate system relative to the table. A motor feeds flexible tape out from the spool, over a dancer arm through a plurality of rollers. A sensor associated with the dancer arm measures the pressure or position in a cylinder connected to the dancer arm and forwards a signal to the motor to increase the speed if the dancer arm pressure is high, and decrease the motor speed if dancer arm pressure is low. A plurality of optical sensors determine the layer of flexible tape currently being removed from the reel, and adjust the motor speed to adjust for the varying length of material removed per revolution as concentric layers of flexible tape are removed from the spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Truseal Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Wakefield, David L. Clark, A. B. Lockstead
  • Patent number: 5772814
    Abstract: An expert system for a welding machine has an installed knowledge base concerning weld problems and preferred solutions. Trial welds are made from which input data concerning weld quality is obtained. The expert system applies predetermined rules and historic confidence levels to determine changes in weld parameters to attempt to correct any weld defects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Branson Ultrasonic Corporation
    Inventor: David A. Grewell
  • Patent number: 5772834
    Abstract: This invention relates to a plastic substrate production process, the production device for such a substrate, and the use of the process for the production of integrated circuit boards. The plastic substrate production process is characterized in that it comprises the following steps: unwinding and straightening of a continuous strip of plastic which is slightly larger in dimension than one of the dimensions of the board; printing, at at least one printing station, of a series of printing patterns and of printed markings; driving of the strip at a regulated printing speed; detection of the difference in speed; cutting by a press of the strip at positions defined by the printed markings; and regulation of the printing speed as a function of the difference between the printing speed and the driving speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignees: Gilles Leroux, S.A., ATN S.A.
    Inventors: Serge Chiloff, Jean-Marc Bernard, Gerard Nioche
  • Patent number: 5772815
    Abstract: A method for producing laminated integrated circuit cubes includes applying conductive heat to the cube using at least one conductive heating device. A vacuum is created around the cube to remove air and other gases from between the integrated circuit layers prior to curing. A force is applied to the cube while it is heated under vacuum. A cooling gas is then circulated over the cube. Temperature and force sensing can be performed, and the process can be controlled by programmable logic controllers and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Stanley Robert Jordan, Gary Leon Stewart, Ralph Trollinger
  • Patent number: 5743991
    Abstract: A device to facilitate the mounting of an optical sensor on a windshield glass using a clear adhesive tape is disclosed. The device holds the sensor, with tape exposed, in a vacuum chamber which is sealed against the glass. The chamber is evacuated, and the sensor is then pressed against the glass by the longitudinal movement of a drive shaft. The sensor may be installed with consistent force and with no trapped air pockets or air bubbles. Air pockets are a special concern because air pockets adversely effect the optical performance of the sensor. The vacuum chamber device may be controlled by a computer, and features a latching mechanism which prevents the sensor from making contact with the glass until the chamber is evacuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Libbey-Owens-Ford Co.
    Inventors: Rein S. Teder, Dennis L. Bomer, Michael A. Niver
  • Patent number: 5702560
    Abstract: The invention comprises an apparatus for cutting cardboard boxes into panels of uniform widths and removing irregularities from the panels, for sorting the panels and for assembling several series of panels end to end and assembling the series of panels face to face to make a multiple thickness corrugated web. The apparatus can ensure that seams between panels in one layer are laterally displaced from seams in adjacent layers and can provide for wrapping paper or cardboard around the corrugated web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Inventor: Larkin P. Skinner
  • Patent number: 5674347
    Abstract: An apparatus for the processing and segmenting of a cover-forming laminate web or sheeting structure which is adapted to interconnect a plurality of containers, such as the base members of blister packages each of which is designed to contain a hydrophilic contact lens in a sterile aqueous solution. More specifically disclosed is an apparatus for the imprinting, perforating, slitting and cutting the laminated web structure such that the severed laminate segments constitute printed covering label for an array of such containers, and whereby the laminated web or sheeting segment may be severed along weakening or perforation lines so as to provide a separable packaging arrangement for individual of the containers which are subsequently adhered thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Vision Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell James Edwards, Masao Funo, Richard Wayne Abrams, Kiyoshi Imai, Hirokazu Kitagawa, Borge Peter Gundersen, William Edward Holley, Thomas Christian Ravn, Mark Edward Schlagel, Daniel Tsu-Fang Wang
  • Patent number: 5637174
    Abstract: A system for the automated production of an identification card includes a two-part security media and apparatus for printing, laminating and die-cutting the security media to form discrete identification cards. The two-part security media includes a continuous web of an opaque backing film, and a continuous web of a clear cover film which acts as a receptor for receiving a thermally printed digital card image. A first thermal web printer is operative for printing a reversed digital card image onto an inner surface of the cover film adjacent a terminal end thereof. A second thermal web printer prints a second image onto the back of the backing film at a terminal end thereof. The printed ends of the backing and cover films are advanced to a cutting station wherein they are aligned in overlying relation and severed from their webs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Atlantek, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Field, Paul V. Corpus, Paul S. Follett, Harold D. Schofield, Christian S. Rothwell, Edward A. Nardone
  • Patent number: 5597440
    Abstract: An apparatus for the adhesive fixing of a joining part (11) to a resilient workpiece joining point (13) function in such a way that by means of a compensating device (20) the yielding of the joining point (13) is determined according to distance and/or position change and is taken into account during the smoothing adapting of the joining point (13) and during the attachment of the joining part (11) and consequently eliminated. This makes it possible to obtain a high joining quality and constancy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: Ernst Pecha
  • Patent number: 5582663
    Abstract: A system for detecting the presence of an object, it shape, length, size, etc., and if a heating material such as a hot melt adhesive applied to the object is applied to given places, or in the proper amount is accomplished by an infrared detection system which is not influenced by external disturbances. A radiant energy detection sensor is placed opposite a radiant energy source, and an object is moved between the radiant energy source and radiant energy detection sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventor: Masafumi Matsunaga
  • Patent number: 5556492
    Abstract: The labeling machine for dispensing labels from a continuous web of material to a plurality of articles is provided which includes a supply roll of labels, a dispenser for removing the labels from the continuous web, a drive drum for imparting a linear velocity to the web so as to move the web through the labeling machine while accumulating the web into a waste roll, and a driving control system, including a label position sensor, for alternately actuating and deactuating the driving device to move and terminate movement of the web, respectively, through the labeling machine. A web velocity compensator device is provided to compensate for variations in the linear velocity caused by, for example, the increase in the diameter of the waste roll on the drive drum so as to insure proper positioning of each of the labels to be dispensed relative to the dispenser upon deactuation of the driving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Exact Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Vonderhorst, Robert C. Jenness, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5547537
    Abstract: An aligning and positioning system for a bonder including a bond sensor for sensing the X, Y and .theta. coordinates of a substrate at the bonding location and a die sensor for sensing the X, Y and .theta. coordinates of the die on a die transport. A controller correlates the sensed coordinates from the sensors and adjusts the X, Y and .theta. of the die and the substrate relative to each other to place the die at a preselected bond site on the substrate. The Z coordinate of the surface of the substrate, as well as its planarity, may be sensed by a Z optical sensor. The X and Y coordinates of the substrate are adjusted and the .theta. coordinate of the die on the die transport is adjusted.A pattern recognition system is used with the die and bond sensors to determine the coordinates as well as quality control of the substrate prior to bonding, the quality of paste pattern on the die or the substrate prior to bonding and the quality of the bond and the coordinates of the die after bonding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Kulicke & Soffa, Investments, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward P. Reynolds, Natale F. Tinnerino, Walter P. Schiefele
  • Patent number: 5534105
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for impermeably sealing microencapsulated or other scent slurry during the printing process. The method comprises the application of an impermeable overlay sheet over the scent slurry on a continuous web of material, using double-sided tape or other adhesive means along the periphery of the overlay sheet. Preferably an impermeable metallic foil is used for the overlay, but other impermeable sheet material (e.g., plastic sheet) may be used. The apparatus continually feeds and applies the impermeable overlay sheet also disclosed. A second, similar apparatus may be provided to mirror the first apparatus, in order to apply a second impermeable overlay sheet to the opposite surface of the scent slurry coated web, thereby preventing bleed through of the scent and/or other chemicals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventor: Craig A. Boyd
  • Patent number: 5527408
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically controlling the moisture content of corrugated board manufactured along a corrugated board production line. Moisture control apparatus (5) has a top liner board moisture sensor (45) and a bottom liner board moisture sensor (46) stationed along the corrugated board production line (7) which read the moisture content percentage of the top liner board (12) and bottom liner board (23) of a combined corrugated board (38). The moisture control apparatus also includes a line speed sensor (47) which measures the line speed of the corrugated board production line. The moisture control sensors (45, 46) signal a central processing unit (50) with a signal proportional to the measured moisture content percentage of the top liner board and bottom liner board, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Inventor: George H. Allen
  • Patent number: 5507907
    Abstract: A sensor system for use with a taping head of a box sealing machine includes a tape dispensing sensor and an box presence sensor. The tape dispensing sensor is positioned along the tape guide path of the taping head for determining whether tape is being dispensed from the taping head and for providing a positive response if tape is being dispensed. The box presence sensor is positioned on the taping head for detecting movement of an element of the taping head that reacts to the box being moved along the taping head and for providing a positive response if a box is present. A control system is provided and is connected to the tape dispensing sensor and the object presence sensor for determining a potential error condition if only one of the tape dispensing sensor and the object presence sensor provides a positive response. Preferably, three sensors are utilized in the sensor system. One senses tape dispensing, another senses a box presence, and yet another senses tape supply left on the roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Karl M. Kropp, Dale A. Johnson, Daniel D. Baker
  • Patent number: 5486254
    Abstract: A system of incrementally moving a foil, or other flexible and elastic elongated web, through a work station, by contacting and registering the foil on both sides of the work station. An example of such a work station is a hot stamping press that transfers optical images from the foil to other substrates. A drive mechanism, with an associated foil registration device, is provided at each of the entrance to the work station and the exit from it. Each registration device optically detects registration marks provided on the foil along its length, and is used to stop its associated drive mechanism after a predetermined number of marks have passed. This dual drive system maintains registration of the foil or other web throughout an extended work station. It is particularly advantageous for use with those hot stamping presses that either have a large number of die or whose multiple die are widely separated, since the multiple images carried along the foil are then all properly registered with the die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Total Register, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Gallagher, Terence J. Gallagher
  • Patent number: 5478422
    Abstract: A computer controlled turret type labeling apparatus having a label applying mechanism for applying labels to containers. The labeling apparatus has a turret having a motor for driving the turret and a sensor for providing turret status information to a controlling computer. The turret apparatus contains at least one labeling station. Each labeling station also has a motor and a sensor, the motor drives the labeling station and the sensor provides labeling station status information to the controlling computer. The computer is programmed to process status information in conjunction with prestored information relating to the characteristics of the labeling apparatus, containers, and desired labeling and generate suitable control signals for labeling apparatus operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: B & H Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Lyn E. Bright, Svatoboj Otruba
  • Patent number: 5472552
    Abstract: A high speed labeling machine for dispensing labels from a continuous web of backing material having labels affixed thereto and applying the labels to a plurality of articles is provided. The labeling machine includes a supply station positioned adjacent a conveyor and a dispensing device and applicator assembly mounted on a support carriage mounted on a support arm and capable of high speed transverse movement across the conveyor for labeling articles positioned in a side by side arrangement. The continuous web of material is fed to the movable support carriage via a follower carriage mounted on the support arm which moves relative to the support carriage so as to maintain tension in the web traveling to and from the support carriage and associated dispensing and applicator devices. As a result, the dispensing device and applicator device can be moved relative to the supply station at high speed without dispensing labels, while at the same time maintaining tension in the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Exact Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Speranza, Ronald E. Snyder, Robert C. Jenness, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5470411
    Abstract: The method consists in pressure bonding a first strip to a second strip through a bonding press, marking each of the strips with the pattern pitches and juxtaposing the pattern pitch markings of each strip at the time of the bonding by extension of at least one strip with respect to another and by differential heating of each of the opposing strips to cause a relative shift, by expansion, of the two strips with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Gemplus Card International
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Gloton, Damien Laroche, Joel Turin, Michel Fallah
  • Patent number: 5437749
    Abstract: A system for coordinating the splices in each of the component webs used in making a composite corrugated paperboard web independently measures on a dynamic real time basis the length of each component web between the splicer where it is supplied and a downstream cutoff apparatus where the synchronized splices are cut out in a short length of web in which they are contained. The real time measurement of each component web includes continuous monitoring of web lengths subject to change while running through variable length storage areas, and an initialization procedure whereby an initially unknown length of component web in its respective storage is determined. The system also includes a calibration procedure by which the various devices used to measure running web lengths throughout the system are all calibrated to a master device which controls the total web length for each order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: Marquip, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Pipkorn, David G. Flessert, Rose M. Cibulka
  • Patent number: 5413651
    Abstract: A universal label cutter apparatus and method for feeding labels from a roll of label material and cutting labels of various lengths and materials. The label cutter apparatus including a microprocessor controlled drive system employing separate and independent servomotors for driving a feed roller, a cutter drum, and a vacuum drum at different speeds. The microprocessor being programmable to vary the rotational speed of the cutter drum during each label cutting cycle in order to optimize control of the label during cut off and transfer to the vacuum drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Assignee: B&H Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Svatoboj Otruba
  • Patent number: 5338381
    Abstract: A TAB method is known to manufacture an electrical component by bonding a semiconductor on a film carrier made of synthetic resin, then punching the lead of the film carrier, and bonding a device obtained by punching to a circuit board. A bonding of a semiconductor to a film carrier as described above is called "an inner lead bonding". Bonding a punched device to a circuit board is called "an outer lead bonding". In the invention, the film carrier fed from the supply reel is punched by a punching unit, and the device obtained by punching is picked up by a bonding head. Then, the positional deviation of the lead of the device picked up with respect to the electrode of the circuit board is detected by the optical means. Subsequently, the positional deviation of the lead is corrected, the device is placed on the circuit board, and the lead is fusion-bonded to the electrode of the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wataru Hidese
  • Patent number: 5330608
    Abstract: An apparatus for wrapping flexible elongate objects has a wrapping wheel arranged coaxially to a longitudinal axis of the objects and having a tape spool support movable therewith, drive mechanism with a roller drive for advancing the objects and arranged at one side of the wrapping wheel, and an electric program control for controlling a drive length by set point/control point comparison. The drive mechanism also includes a carriage movable parallel to an axis of rotation of the wrapping wheel and to the longitudinal axis of the objects, and includes a holding device on the wrapping wheel side for holding an end of an object for pulling the object through the wrapping wheel. The drive mechanism also includes two vertically displaceable rolls which for a start of the wrapping are positioned relative to one another so far that the holding device is movable between the rolls to the wrapping wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Assignee: Wella Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Heinrich Kemmler, Heinrich Will
  • Patent number: 5323586
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a machine for closing and sealing an article, such as a box or carton, as it is driven through the machine. Specifically, upper and lower taping heads are provided for applying lengths of tape to the bottoms and tops of the boxes. The upper box flaps are also preferably folded by the machine of the present invention by a folding mechanism including a ski for folding the leading minor flap, a kicker for folding the trailing minor flap, and shaped rods for folding the major side flaps after the minor flaps are folded. In accordance with the present invention, the upper head assembly is advantageously adjustably connected to the machine so that proper leveling of the upper taping head and the folding mechanism can be assured. Moreover, such adjustment can be redone at any time thereafter as needed as affected by working conditions over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Adelio Lissoni, Lloyd S. Vasilakes, Richard H. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 5318655
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a tread centering device which automatically detects the position of tread center and holds it in a straight form even when the center of tread is not positioned in a straight form. The device mainly comprises a plurality of detectors for detecting a groove for centering the tread, a holding plate which is inserted into the detected groove, and a mechanism which moves said holding plate transversely to align said groove in a straight form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignees: Mitsubishi Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Miyamoto, Hidemasa Sato, Jiro Agawa, Toru Aihara, Keizo Yamashita, Kazuo Mogi
  • Patent number: 5298104
    Abstract: There is provided a flexible bag with a removable coupon and the method and apparatus for the manufacture thereof. A labeling machine sequentially provides a coupon assembly comprising an adhesive portion and a coupon portion to bag stock which is inputted into the bag making machine. The bag stock is then cut to form individual bags having removable coupons thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1994
    Inventor: Scott Absher
  • Patent number: 5292397
    Abstract: The trailing end of a web of photosensitive material which is being unwound from a core in a cassette is connected to the core by an elongated strip. A monitoring device is placed adjacent the path of movement of the web from the core to the nip of two advancing rolls, and the monitoring device is activated as soon as it detects the strip. The motor for the advancing rolls is driven for an interval of time and at a speed such that, when the monitoring device detects the trailing end of the strip, the web is advanced through a predetermined distance to locate its trailing end at a splicing station where the trailing end of the web is to be spliced with the leader of a next-following web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Agfa-Gevaert Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Bernhard Lorenz, Christian Richter, Rainer Tuercke
  • Patent number: 5290385
    Abstract: Pressure sealing of business forms is effected utilizing first and second sets of (preferably narrow-width) rollers forming first and second nips which provide a sealing force to business forms passing between them. The first set of rollers are rotatable about first and second axes, typically horizontal, while the second set of rollers are rotatable about third and fourth axes. The third and fourth axes are substantially perpendicular to the first and second axes, and may be horizontal or vertical. The first set is typically provided above the second set, and a conveyor may be provided for conveying forms which drop from the first set into operative association with the second set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Assignee: Moore Business Forms, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Downing, Daniel F. Pustelnik
  • Patent number: 5290386
    Abstract: A main controller (55) causes a vision controller (36) to determine the exact location of plies (24) for a composite article in response to images from video cameras (35). The main controller then causes a robot controller (40) to direct a robot (42-46) to pick up the plies and move to a neutral position. The main controller causes the vision controller to determine that the plies were in fact picked up. If so, the main controller causes the robot controller to direct the robot to move the plies to the mold while the vision controller looks for the next ply to be picked up, in overlapped fashion. Failure to properly locate the plies and failure to verify that the plies were picked up causes an automatic retry to locate the plies or verify ply pick up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Allen E. Trudeau
  • Patent number: 5277722
    Abstract: A manual feed machine for the application of tabs to sheet stock has a strip feeder for feeding a foil strip into the path of a sheet which is manually insertable beneath the cutter for the file strip to entrain a previously cut segment into the heating jaws. A die cutter downstream of the foil application can cut the tab after the jaw opens and the sheet is transported to the cutter. Only after the perimeter of the sheet has cleared the blade, is the previously advanced foil strip cut to form the next segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: E-Z Machine Corp.
    Inventors: Craig Block, Gerd Hochrain
  • Patent number: 5256239
    Abstract: A continuously moving web pressure-sensitive labeler applies pressure-sensitive labels to articles moving in a given direction past a label applying station. The labels are initially carried by the moving web and the labeler includes a label applying mechanism such as a peel plate and a vacuum drum for stripping labels from the moving web and delivering the stripped labels in the given direction onto articles as they pass the label applying station in the given direction. The labeler also has mechanism which generates a timing signal for timing the placing of labels in register on the label applying mechanism. In a first embodiment, the timing signal generating mechanism includes an encoder driven by the drum and also includes a rotary vacuum valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: New Jersey Machine Inc.
    Inventors: Helmut Voltmer, Urs Reuteler
  • Patent number: 5246533
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for press-bonding a tape onto each of side faces of a workpiece. The apparatus basically comprises a tape press-bonding mechanism and a trimming mechanism both displaceable in the directions indicated by the arrows X, Y and Z. The former mechanism includes a pressure roller for press-bonding the tape onto the side faces of the workpiece with recesses defined therein, an actuator for displacing the pressure roller toward each of the side faces, a block member for supporting the pressure roller thereon, and a device for displacing the block member through a desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: Marunaka Kakoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Michio Mochizuki
  • Patent number: 5243755
    Abstract: An ink-jet head assembling apparatus assembles a nozzle head of an ink-jet head for discharging an ink in a predetermined pattern from a heater board having a plurality of heaters for heating the ink, and a top plate member having a plurality of discharge orifices for discharging the ink heated by the corresponding heaters in a jet-like manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaki Inaba, Fumio Ichikawa, Tsunenobu Satoi, Hiroshi Haruyama, Tsuyoshi Baba, Tsuyoshi Orikasa, Takashi Ohba
  • Patent number: 5244518
    Abstract: An improved corrugated board manufacturing apparatus and method including precise web moisture and temperature control is disclosed. The apparatus includes steam driven manifolds for zone drying of the web using pressurized steam to reduce moisture and equalize the moisture content across the web. Moisture sensors and temperature sensors are implemented to scan the web and provide feedback information regarding web moisture and temperature. Wrap arm position is automatically controlled to obtain ideal web temperatures for corrugated board production. Web speed and take-up ratios are monitored to determine when process parameters are out of limits which may cause waste. An improved hot plate section including variable pressure applied to the web as well as variable steam supplied to the hot plates results in a more effective process control loop in achieving and maintaining web temperature for curing the adhesive and preventing warping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignee: Stickle Steam Specialties Co. Inc.
    Inventors: Everett D. Krayenhagen, Richard D. Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 5223069
    Abstract: With the splicing get started, braking becomes strong and the old core decelerates, when the capstan roll comes to be free run. The speed reference to the second motor is a summed-up speed of "line speed minus capstan speed" and compensated portion of the tension. At once when the old core starts deceleration, the accumulation roll unit starts moving. The capstan roll is accelerated at a certain rate, when the new core is drawn out, up until the speed reaches "line speed plus overrun speed". When the accumulation roll unit reaches the synchronous position, the overrun becomes "0" and the capstan roll synchronizes with the line speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Assignees: SK Engineering Ltd., Reliance Electric Ltd.
    Inventors: Masateru Tokuno, Masaaki Ito