Lamina Transferred To Base From Adhered Flexible Web Or Sheet Type Carrier Patents (Class 156/540)
  • Patent number: 6709541
    Abstract: A method and device for applying a graphic from a carrier sheet to a receiving substrate. A press roll, mateingly aligned to a support surface, is made to traverse the support surface in a reciprocating manner while applying controlled pressure. A flexible web is attached and held stationary at one end of the support surface, wrapped around the press roll, and fixed to a tensioning device that allows movement of the web under tension. The web is adhesively coated on the side opposite the press roll. When pulled across the work surface by the press roll, the adhesive face of the web comes in contact with the graphic and is removed from the carrier sheet. The web is reversed and the graphic is peeled away from the work surface and the carrier sheet by the tensioning device. The carrier sheet is removed, replaced by the receiving substrate, and the cycle is repeated applying the graphic to the receiving substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Brian J. Slone
  • Publication number: 20040045659
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to allow powder coating to be performed even on objects having shapes for which powder coating had conventionally been difficult or impossible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Maresuke Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20040040668
    Abstract: A holder for a magnetic transfer device comprising a first holder portion and a second holder portion which are movable toward and away from each other. Between the first and second holder portions, there is formed an interior space where a master carrier with information is held in intimate contact with a slave medium. At least one of the first and second holder portions has an interior pressing surface provided with an elastic member having elastic characteristics. The elastic member has a deformation quantity of 5 to 500 &mgr;m in a pressure-applied direction when pressure is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Applicant: FUJI PHOTO FILM CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Akito Kamatani
  • Patent number: 6695030
    Abstract: Apparatus for transferring organic material from a donor web onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material on one or more OLED devices including a web of donor material; first and second fixtures and a structure for applying fluid to a chamber to containing the fixtures to apply pressure to the non-transfer surface of the donor web so as to ensure the position of the donor web relative to the substrate; the first fixture including a transparent portion located in relationship to the non-transfer surface of the donor web to permit transmission of radiation through such transparent portion to the non-transfer surface of the donor web so that heat will be produced and the organic material will transfer from the donor web to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Bradley A. Phillips, David B. Kay
  • Patent number: 6695029
    Abstract: Apparatus for permitting the transfer of organic material from a donor onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material on one or more OLED devices, comprising a first fixture arranged to support the donor and substrate in a relationship relative to one another whereby there will be either a separation between portions of the substrate and the donor, or the substrate and donor will be in contact, and wherein organic material will be transferred onto portions of the substrate; a second fixture aligned with and engaging the first fixture to clamp the donor and substrate and forming a chamber relative to a non-transfer surface of the donor; means for supplying a fluid to the chamber to apply pressure to the non-transfer surface of the donor so as to ensure the position of the donor relative to the substrate; and the first fixture including a transparent portion located in relationship to the non-transfer surface of the donor to permit transmission of radiation through such transparent portion to the non-tran
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Bradley A. Phillips, David B. Kay, Michael L. Boroson
  • Publication number: 20040031557
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for thermal transfer overcoat technology. Throughput conditions are anticipated. Multi-stage preheating of the fuser is performed such that active heating during thermal transfer overcoat is eliminated. Thermal waves create an accumulated fuser heat that is a sufficient energy to maintain a substantially constant fuser temperature needed for one whole thermal transfer overcoat cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Miquel Boleda, David J. Arcaro, John Havard
  • Patent number: 6691759
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for making and/or decorating bowling balls and the like includes flexible transfer sheets with heat-activated ink applied to at least portions thereof. A form or mold with opposite halves, which shift between open and closed positions, includes a cavity sized to closely receive therein the article to be decorated. At least one transfer sheet is positioned in the mold with the article, such that when the mold is closed, the same are captured in the mold cavity in an overlying relationship. Heat is applied to the mold to a predetermined temperature causing the article to expand through thermal expansion, which expansion is resisted by the mold to uniformly press the transfer sheet against the underlying outer surface of the article, and also causing the heat-activated ink to transfer from the transfer sheet to the outer surface of the article to form the design thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Brunswick Bowling & Billards Corporation
    Inventors: Alfred J. Dabrowski, Jr., Daniel L. LaPres, Phillip G. Syer
  • Publication number: 20040026017
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for producing an image on one or more surfaces of a wood or wood composite substrate by applying a receptor coat to at least the one or more surfaces of the substrate, transferring the image to the receptor coat using a variety of image transfer processes and applying a topcoat to the image and receptor coat. The system implements the above method using a series of stations and includes a series of platens connected together by a chain and a set of rollers that allow the substrate to travel through the stations on the platens. The resulting wood or wood composite product includes a substrate, a receptor coat disposed on one or more surfaces of the substrate, an image disposed on or within the one or more surfaces of the receptor coat and a top coat disposed on the image and receptor coat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Dene H. Taylor, Jon H. Hardesty, Evan R. Daniels
  • Publication number: 20040026020
    Abstract: Clear hot stamp coating methods of creating durable protective coatings to the printed side of printed transparencies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Vladek P. Kasperchik, David J. Arcaro, David M. Kwasny
  • Patent number: 6688364
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for applying a transfer sheet to sign appliqueś and removing them to a sign board or other substrate. A carriage is movably mounted on a layout table. The layout table has a surface upon which appliqueś are arranged to be made into a sign. The carriage is constrained to move along the layout table in a fixed orientation, such as by using gear racks mounted on the frame. The carriage may have pinions that are mechanically coupled so opposing sides move in a coordinated manner. A transfer roll support allows the transfer sheet to play out and about an applicator which smooths the sheet onto the sign appliqueś. The apparatus includes elevators which allow elevation adjustment between the carriage and layout surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Robert C. Simpson
  • Patent number: 6688365
    Abstract: A method for transferring organic material from a flexible donor element onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material in making one or more OLED devices, includes providing the flexible donor element and the substrate in a spaced relationship within a chamber under atmospheric pressure defined by a transfer station so that the flexible donor element partitions the chamber into first and second cavities; varying the pressure differential between the first and second cavities to cause the flexible donor element to move into a contact relationship with the substrate; providing a transparent window which defines the top surface of the second cavity; and providing radiation energy through the transparent window onto the flexible donor element in contact with the substrate to cause the flexible donor element to absorb heat and transfer organic material onto the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Yuan-Sheng Tyan, Giuseppe Farruggia, Fridrich Vazan, Thomas R. Cushman
  • Patent number: 6684925
    Abstract: A laminator for lamination to a substrate by use of continuous laminated material is provided. The laminated material includes a support, and a photosensitive transfer layer overlaid on the support. A heat/pressure roller attaches the laminated material to the substrate with heat and pressure with the transfer layer opposed to the substrate. A cooler cools the substrate with the laminated material. A peeler peels the support from the transfer layer on the substrate from the cooler, to transfer the transfer layer to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nagate, Kazuyoshi Suehara, Shinji Uematsu
  • Patent number: 6681828
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for peeling a carrier web having a protective layer from a keeper sheet of image-bearing medium. The carrier web and the protective layer are peeled about a peel member as the keeper sheet moves over and is deformed by a constraining roller located at or downstream of the peel member putting the protective layer in tension. Preferably, at least one of the peel member or the constraining roller has a compliant material covering to facilitate separation of unused portions of the protective layer from edges of the keeper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Polaroid Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur H. Clough, Walter P. Haimberger, Alfredo G. Knaizzeh, William E. Swan
  • Patent number: 6672357
    Abstract: This invention relates to a hot-stamping device comprising a stamping arm with one end being a free end, a stamping section adapted to apply pressure to a hot-stamping foil positioned at the free end to a value-added medium such as ticket wherein the hot-stamping foil is transferred to the value-added medium. A first cam, in contact with said stamping arm, is used for moving a stamping section to close proximity of the value-added medium. A first drive section driving said first cam and a second cam for bringing pressure-exerting load to bear on the stamping section is used to move to close proximity a value-added medium. A second drive section is used for driving a second cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuo Yokozawa, Kiyotsugu Takasawa, Yukio Kuroiwa, Fumito Komatsu
  • Patent number: 6672356
    Abstract: A pallet labeler station for applying a printed label to a loaded pallet at a predetermined label position includes a label printer for printing a label to be affixed to the loaded pallet, a label applicator mechanism for applying the printed label to the loaded pallet at the predetermined label position and a rack and pinion drive mechanism for moving the label applicator mechanism so as to apply the printed label to the loaded pallet at the predetermined label position. The pallet label station includes a programmable control that receives data defining the predetermined label position and causes the rack and pinion drive mechanism to move the label applicator mechanism to the proper position so as to apply the printed label to the loaded pallet at the predetermined label position defined by the label position data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Kolinahr Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Jenkins, Gregory W. Reichling
  • Patent number: 6668894
    Abstract: A film layer separation device for multilayer disks is disclosed. With the help of a stamper made of magnetic materials, the film layer separation is achieved through the attractive force imposed on the stamper by electromagnetic tearing. The device contains at least: a stamper supporter for supporting the stamper, an electromagnetic attraction device, and a base fixture. To distribute the electromagnetic force on the stamper evenly, the electromagnetic attraction device can have an array of homogeneously disposed electromagnetic iron cores and a conductive coil that can generate a magnetic force. Thus, there will be no localized stress when tearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Chau-Shin Jang, Li-Te Kuo, Rong-Chang Ma, Yu-Hsiu Chang
  • Publication number: 20030226638
    Abstract: A DFR laminating and PET removing system which is capable of both laminating a dry film resist (DFR) layer on a semiconductor wafer and removing a DFR support film such as polyethylene terepthalate (PET) from the DFR layer on the wafer at a single location. The DFR laminating and PET removing system of the present invention comprises a PET support film removing head for removing a portion of PET film from the semiconductor wafer substrate after the PET film portion and dry film resist (DFR) portion are laminated from a DFR tape onto the wafer and before the DFR portion is cut from the DFR tape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Li-Chih Chen, Chia-Tsun Hsu, Chia-Fu Lin, Kuo-Ching Lee, Yen-Ming Chen, Kai-Ming Ching, Hsin-Hui Lee, Chao-Yuan Su
  • Patent number: 6655436
    Abstract: A labeling head includes a printing unit and an applicator foot assembly for printing and applying labels onto a layup of material. The printing unit is integral to the labeling head and prints each label prior to applying the label to the layup. The applicator foot assembly transfers the printed label onto the layup. The labeling head of the present invention can be used either with a cutter, a spreader or as a standalone unit. The labeling head of the present invention prints and prepares labels while the cutter head cuts the part. Once the part is cut, the labeling head applies the prepared label onto the cut part. The labeling head also includes a layup height sensor allowing the labels to be applied to layup having varying heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Gerber Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Venditti, Robert Murphy, Stephen McCarthy, Michael T. Silva
  • Patent number: 6640864
    Abstract: Hot melt thermoplastic adhesive is predeposited on a carrier strip having front and back release surfaces. The carrier strip is rolled into a coil compressing the thermoplastic hot melt into disks which may later be removed for use. The disks are spaced so that the carrier strip may be deformed to expose a single disk to a planar surface permitting simplified dispensing of the disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Glue Dots International, LLC
    Inventor: John P. Downs
  • Publication number: 20030180638
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for transferring organic material from a donor onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material on one or more OLED devices, by aligning first and second fixtures in a reduced pressure environment and positioning the substrate and donor in a chamber defined by the aligned first and second fixtures; increasing the pressure applied to the non-transfer surface of the donor so as to ensure the position of the donor relative to the substrate; moving a member provided on the first fixture from a closed to an open position which permits the transmission of radiation onto the non-transfer surface of the donor so that heat will be produced and organic material transferred from the donor to the substrate; and illuminating with radiation the donor through the open radiation-receiving position to cause the transfer of organic material to the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Yuan-Sheng Tyan
  • Patent number: 6619361
    Abstract: A multiple-head labeling machine directed at minimizing downtime, both from the need to reload labels and from the occasional labeler jams, on assembly lines incorporating a labeling step. It achieves this by the use of multiple independent labeling mechanisms gang-loaded on a single apparatus, such apparatus being capable of switching back and forth between the independent labeling mechanisms. This provides for a depleted or jammed mechanism to be displaced in a matter of seconds with a fresh mechanism that is ready to continue with the labeling operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Engineered Automation of Maine
    Inventor: Stephen Swinburne
  • Patent number: 6616026
    Abstract: In a device for applying spatially limited, flexible elements (26) to a continuous web (14), in particular for applying holograms, the speed of the continuous web (14) is reduced In the application zone and the flexible element is applied at this time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Schober GmbH Werkzeug- und Maschinenbau
    Inventor: Klaus Wittmaier
  • Patent number: 6610164
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of selectively coating wood composites in a single step, while maintaining registration of the coating to the design of the molded or contoured wood composite. The invention also is directed to a structure provided by preparing a wood composite according to the inventive method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Masonite Corporation
    Inventors: Karine A. Luetgert, Raymond H. Pittman
  • Publication number: 20030148208
    Abstract: Apparatus for permitting the transfer of organic material from a donor onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material on one or more OLED devices, comprising a first fixture arranged to support the donor and substrate in a relationship relative to one another whereby there will be either a separation between portions of the substrate and the donor, or the substrate and donor will be in contact, and wherein organic material will be transferred onto portions of the substrate; a second fixture aligned with and engaging the first fixture to clamp the donor and substrate and forming a chamber relative to a non-transfer surface of the donor; means for supplying a fluid to the chamber to apply pressure to the non-transfer surface of the donor so as to ensure the position of the donor relative to the substrate; and the first fixture including a transparent portion located in relationship to the non-transfer surface of the donor to permit transmission of radiation through such transparent portion to the non-tran
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Bradley A. Phillips, David B. Kay, Michael L. Boroson
  • Patent number: 6601628
    Abstract: The invention herein providing a sticker machine with pressure applying structure comprises of an arresting gear, a driven gear and the sticker body, wherein the arresting gear further consists of a press-down portion, a resilient spring and a pressed portion; a receiving chamber is mounted at the center of the press-down portion for receiving the resilient spring; the pressed portion is disposed at the bottom side of the press-down portion with the center available for inserting in the projecting rod of the receiving chamber; the driven gear moves along with the depressed movement of the arresting gear; the sticker body comprises of oilpaper and adhesive patterns positioned on the lower surface of oilpaper with adhesive layer coated on the bottom side; when the press-down portion of the arresting gear is depressed downwards, it presses the pressed portion downwards and synchronously links the movement of the driven gear on the side; the adhesive patterns of the sticker body move to the bottom side of the pre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Teng-Tsung Yeh
  • Patent number: 6601629
    Abstract: A method for transferring a three-dimensional structure onto a substrate, which includes filling a plurality of concaves arranged on a sheet-form mold with a paste-like structural material, temporarily fixing the mold to a support member, contact-bonding the structural material in a state in which the structural material has the adhesion property or bonding property to the substrate together with the mold, releasing the temporary fixation of the mold by the support member after the contact-bonding, and removing the mold from the substrate, thereby transferring a three-dimensional structure onto the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Fujitsu, Limited
    Inventors: Osamu Toyoda, Akira Tokai, Motonari Kifune, Keiichi Betsui
  • Patent number: 6595260
    Abstract: A mark transfer tool making use of a coat film transfer technology about various marks composed of characters, codes, patterns or their combination. A mark transfer tape is composed of pressure-sensitive adhesive transfer marks disposed and held on the surface of a base tape continuously and peelably at specific intervals, and a visual recognition line for showing the division position of transfer marks are disposed between the transfer marks. Corresponding to this configuration, the leading edge of the transfer head of the mark transfer tool is a visual recognition positioning part, and the coincidence of the two is recognized as the standard for transfer, so that the transfer mark of the mark transfer tape can be accurately transferred on a correction area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Seed Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeru Tamai, Masatoshi Shintani, Kouhei Koyama
  • Publication number: 20030131927
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and system for transferring a molded element onto a textile material comprising the steps of: (a) heating a liquid polymeric material inside a mold to transform the liquid polymeric material from a liquid to a gel to form a molded element; (b) applying the molded element in the mold to the textile material with heat and pressure in order to transfer the molded element from the mold onto the textile material; and, (c) cooling the molded element on the textile material by applying cold and pressure to the molded element in the mold in order to adhere the molded element to the textile material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: Johnie F. Hatcher, Brian S. Lee
  • Publication number: 20030121613
    Abstract: A mark transfer tool utilizing a coat film transfer technology, concerning various marks composed of characters, codes, patterns or their combination. A mark transfer tape has multiple pressure-sensitive adhesive transfer marks adhered and held at specified intervals peelably on the surface of a base tape, and the transfer marks are prepared as adhesive seals of which adhesive force of the back-side pressure sensitive adhesive layer adhered to the transfer area is set larger than the adhesive holding force on the base tape. Like adhesive seals, the transfer marks once transferred on the transfer area can be once peeled off and adhered again, or peeled and removed when no longer needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventors: Shigeru Tamai, Masatoshi Shintani, Mikio Toyoda, Nobuyuki Motoyama, Yoshiyuki Hori, Goro Inoue
  • Publication number: 20030121612
    Abstract: An overcoat application apparatus is used to transfer an overcoat material from a donor support to a printed media. The overcoat application apparatus in this case includes a laminate cartridge, a donor supply reel, a donor guide bar, a heated fuser roller, a pressure roller, a peel bar, and a take-up reel. The donor supply reel provides a continuous source of donor plus overcoat material. The donor guide bar guides printed media and the donor plus overcoat into a nip created by forcing the heated fuser roller and pressure roller together. The heated fuser roller is used to transport the printed media and donor through the nip and apply heat to the donor and printed media. The pressure roller is used to apply pressure to the fuser roller in order to produce the mechanical nip. The nip plus the heat causes the overcoat material on the donor to be transferred to the printed media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2001
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventors: Kerry Neal McKay, Robert John Rosati, Scott Matthew Dennis
  • Patent number: 6585844
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for producing laminated labels in which a supporting material web (TB) with labels (E) arranged thereon is advanced to a laminated film deposit station (30). A laminated film web (LB) is deposited on the supporting material web (TB) in said deposit station. Afterwards, the resulting laminated label web (EB) is advanced to a separating station (40). The invention additionally provides that before the supporting material web (TB) is advanced to the laminated film deposit station (30), the labels (E) are individually deposited on the supporting material web (TB) while forming spaces (Z) situated in a longitudinal direction of the supporting material web (TB). Afterwards, individual segments of the laminated label web (EB) are separated in the separating station (40) by means of at least one cut which runs essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the laminated label web (EB) and which is placed in the spaces (Z).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventor: Mathias Lochner
  • Publication number: 20030113656
    Abstract: A method for transferring organic material from a flexible donor element onto a substrate to form a layer of organic material in making one or more OLED devices, includes providing the flexible donor element and the substrate in a spaced relationship within a chamber under atmospheric pressure defined by a transfer station so that the flexible donor element partitions the chamber into first and second cavities; varying the pressure differential between the first and second cavities to cause the flexible donor element to move into a contact relationship with the substrate; providing a transparent window which defines the top surface of the second cavity; and providing radiation energy through the transparent window onto the flexible donor element in contact with the substrate to cause the flexible donor element to absorb heat and transfer organic material onto the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Yuan-Sheng Tyan, Giuseppe Farruggia, Fridrich Vazan, Thomas R. Cushman
  • Patent number: 6579397
    Abstract: An automotive quality paint coat (44) is laminated to the exterior surface of a molded plastic car body member or panel (118). In one embodiment, the paint coat (44) includes an exterior clear coat (45) above a color coat (46). During processing, the clear coat (45) and color coat (46) are each coated on a temporary flexible casting sheet (42) and dried. A high gloss surface is transferred to the clear coat (45) from the casting sheet (42). The paint coat (44) is then transferred from the casting sheet (42) to a thin, semi-flexible thermoformable plastic backing sheet (72) by dry paint transfer-laminating techniques. The resulting laminate (70) is thermoformed into a complex three-dimensional shape of the car body member or panel. The preformed laminate (116) is then bonded to an underlying plastic substrate material, by injection-clading techniques, for example, to form the finished article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick Leon Spain, Keith Lawson Truog
  • Patent number: 6568450
    Abstract: The tape dispenser has a handle (1) for storing a supply of tape (18). The tape (18) consists of a backing ribbon carrying a coating composition, and backing ribbon from which the coating composition has been removed. An applicator (12) having en edge (10) around which the tape (18) passes is arranged for pressing the tape (18) against a surface to transfer the coating composition from the backing ribbon to said surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Berol Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher John Stevens
  • Patent number: 6568451
    Abstract: A device for labeling foodstuffs packages comprises a feed unit for transport of the package in a horizontal direction, a weighing unit arranged in the conveyance path for weighing the package, a printing device for printing a label detchably affixed to a carrier strip, and an application unit for applying the printed label to the underside of the package. The application unit comprises a roller which, during application of the label to the package, is driven so as to be synchronous with the package. The printed label is removed from the carrier strip and carried by a part of the outer circumference of the roller and fed to the underside of the package. The point of labeling the package coincides with the zenith of the roller and the zenith of the outer circumference of the roller arranged on a horizontal projection in the conveyance direction of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Espera Werke GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Korthäuer
  • Patent number: 6554044
    Abstract: A reverse image printer that has a backing web carrying a laminate layer upon which a reverse image is printed. The laminate layer is laminated onto a card. The backing web carrying the transfer layer is separated from the laminate layer after the laminate layer and card have been laminated together using a peel-off assembly that guides the backing web at a selected desired separation angle relative to the plane of movement of the card and the laminate layer after lamination. The peel-off assembly uses two guide members to maintain the desired separation angle regardless of changes in diameter of a take-up roller used for the backing web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Fargo Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley A. Paulson, Brent D. Lien, Ted M. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6550517
    Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for transferring a discrete portion of a first web traveling at a first speed onto a second web traveling a second speed. The apparatus includes a converting mechanism capable of forming at least one discrete portion out of the first web. An anvil roll is positioned in close proximity to the converting mechanism and can travel at a rotational speed equal to the first speed. The anvil roll is a vacuum roll that is capable of directing the discrete portion away from the converting mechanism. A transfer roll is arranged in close proximity to the anvil roll and initially travels at a rotational speed equal to the first speed. The transfer roll forms a gap with the anvil roll through which the discrete portion can pass. The transfer roll is also a vacuum roll that is capable of directing the discrete portion away from the anvil roll. The transfer roll is capable of changing rotational speed to match the second speed during a single revolution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Alex Hilt, Randy Keith Burr
  • Patent number: 6550512
    Abstract: A labeling machine includes a label applying unit disposed adjacent to a conveying unit, and a controller coupled electrically to a bar code sensor, a label sensor and a container sensor. The controller compares bar code data of a label from the bar sensor with predetermined bar code data, and generates an inhibit signal when a mismatch occurs. The controller determines length of the label in accordance with first and second signals from the label sensor and distance information from an encoder unit, compares the determined length with predetermined label length data, and generates the inhibit signal when a mismatch occurs. The controller determines container dimension of a container being conveyed by the conveying unit in accordance with container feature information from the container sensor and distance information from another encoder unit, compares the determined container dimension with predetermined container dimension, and generates the inhibit signal when a mismatch occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Sheng-Hui Yang
  • Patent number: 6547229
    Abstract: A product stacking apparatus and method employs one or more stations, each including a stationary stacking platform or a conveyor upon which spaced-apart pucks are coupled for travel thereon. A product delivery apparatus drives one or more movable webs to which segmented product sheets are removably affixed. The product delivery apparatus includes one or more rotatable lamination interfaces associated with each of the stations for transferring product sheets from the webs to the pucks on a repetitive basis to produce a stack of product sheets on the respective pucks. Each of the segmented product sheets may define all or a portion of an electrochemical cell, all or a portion of a pad including layers of film or sheet material, wherein a portion of each of the layers is provided with a bonding feature, or all or a portion of a pack comprising layers of medical dressing. A puck need not be in motion during the transfer of the product sheet from the lamination roll to the puck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Eric J. Hanson, John R. Wheeler, Alan P. Miller, David B. Pritchard, Donald G. Peterson, John R. Jacobson, Jeffrey J. Missling, James N. Dobbs, David C. Kramlich
  • Patent number: 6543505
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for communicating with a multiple lane labeling machine such that the labeling machine will only dispense and place labels on packaged articles. The present invention comprises a labeling machine having sensors positioned in front of the label transport, which positions the labels on the packaged articles. These sensors are preferably positioned directly in front of the label transport over the row of articles preceding the transporter and operate to detect the presence and absence of packaged articles and their content. Thus, if a package is absent from a row or does not contain product the sensors alert the labeling machine of the absence of an article so that the labeler does not dispense a label for a missing article or empty package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Koch Equipment, LLC
    Inventor: James R. Harte
  • Patent number: 6543512
    Abstract: A carrier for semiconductor components, and a method and system for handling semiconductor components using the carrier, are provided. The carrier includes a frame having component mounting sites that include adhesive members for retaining the components on the carrier. The adhesive members can include one or more pieces of polymer tape having low tack adhesive surfaces for retaining the components, and high tack adhesive surfaces for bonding to the carrier. The low tack adhesive surfaces are formulated to provide adhesive forces sufficient to retain the components on the component mounting sites, but low enough to allow a conventional pick and place vacuum tool to remove the components from the carrier. The adhesive forces on the components are determined by a contact area between the components and low tack adhesive surfaces, and by adhesive qualities of the low tack adhesive surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven L. Hamren
  • Patent number: 6543507
    Abstract: An intermediate transfer film on which an image is printed is carried on a backing web and after is laminated to a substrate, such as an identification card. A lamination station uses heater rollers for the lamination process, and subsequent to the lamination station the backing web is guided to a take-up roller around a peel-off roller. The peel-off roller is supported in a heat insulating frame to minimize storing heat that increases the likelihood of flakes of the laminate material remaining with the backing web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Fargo Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent D. Lien
  • Patent number: 6543513
    Abstract: Die bonding apparatus is provided in which in order to move a target die to a pick-up position, a wafer table is moved by rotation and along one linear axis. This reduces the footprint of the apparatus in comparison to prior art apparatus in which this movement is accomplished by movement along two orthogonal linear axes. In an embodiment of the invention, however, movement along a second orthogonal liner axis may also be provided whereby a user may select the method of moving a target die to the pick-up position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: ASM Assembly Automation Ltd.
    Inventors: Siu Wing Lau, Yuk Cheung Au
  • Patent number: 6543514
    Abstract: An in-line continuous feed sleeve labeling machine labels containers, such as beverage containers, in an in-line fashion maintaining the elevation of the containers during their linear transport. The in-line continuous feed sleeve labeling machine of the present invention receives bottles in flood feeder or linear fashion. A timing screw or the like properly separates, and both spatially and temporally disposes, the containers for sleeving. The timing screw propels the containers onto a pedestal system. The pedestals of the pedestal system maintain their horizontal nature due to offset pivotable attachments to the track system upon which they travel. A sheet of film is unspooled from an unwind roll and passed through a tube forming apparatus that overlaps the edges of the film. The overlapping edges completing the tube enclosure are connected using ultrasonic welding or the like. The sleeve is then passed to an iris carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Axon Corporation
    Inventor: Victor V. Menayan
  • Publication number: 20030062131
    Abstract: A media printer such as, for example, a thermal transfer media printer is disclosed. In one embodiment, the printer selectively programs RFID transponders, and then embeds them into conventional on-demand printed media between the adhesive layer and the release liner. Selective configuration of each printed media sample by addition of value-adding elements may be performed independently for each media sample, under software control during processing of each media sample format print control program. An add-on mechanism is disclosed that can be operatively attached to a conventional media printer. This allows value-adding elements such as RFID transponder labels to be selectively applied at precise locations on the printed surface of on-demand printed media in connection with existing printers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Clive P. Hohberger, Matthew R. Ream, Daniel F. Donato
  • Patent number: 6533015
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for applying pressure-sensitive adhesive labels to articles, especially containers such as bottles, jars and cans. A pair of rollers define a cradle in which an article to be labeled rests. The rollers are adjustably mounted in a frame which also has a feeder reel thereon from which a roll of labels are paid out on a strip of substrate. The label-bearing substrate strip is wrapped around an edge of a plate mounted on the frame. Waste substrate is pinched between one of the cradle rollers and the article and then re-wound back to the roll on the feeder reel, so that the manual rolling of the article in the cradle pulls the label-bearing substrate from the roll to the edge of the plate. At the point where the substrate wraps around the edge of the plate, the label detaches from the substrate and is applied to the article. This action is repeated to serially apply labels to many articles. The apparatus is adjustable to accommodate a wide variety of article and container types and sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Marc Moore
  • Patent number: 6531018
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus is disclosed for decorating cylindrical and non-cylindrical containers by a continuous process. The containers (1) are decollated and rotated on a transport path (5) as well as stopped and secured using a marking (30) on the container (1). The containers (1) are set in rotation at the transfer location (11) and brought into contact with a pressure head (6, 6′). A contact line is formed between the carrier conveyor (10) for the decors and the rotating container (1) which moves with the container (1) over a predetermined path. The apparatus provides a novel positioning device (13) for the containers (1) and to two embodiments of a pressure head (6, 6′).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Heineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventor: Wolfgang Fiwek
  • Patent number: 6516851
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for automatically and with precision applying each of a series of individual self-adhesive labels from a continuous liner transporting labels at a first linear speed, each label being applied to one of a series of individual cartons moving at intervals at a second linear speed different from the first linear speed and wherein each label is applied at a selectable and reproducible preset distance from the leading edge of each carton. Each label is advanced to a parked position on a fan box, being partially dispensed thereon and further advanced by the liner to a pinch point for wiping the label onto a passing carton, this second advancing being timed for “just-in-time” delivery of the label to the pinch point to position the label along the length of the carton.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Tharo Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Thatcher, Jason Ashworth, Joseph Yatsko
  • Publication number: 20030015297
    Abstract: The purpose is to simplify the heat transfer process and extend the performance range of the corresponding installations. The purpose is achieved by arranging for opposite movements of the conveyor (4) with the cylindrical packings (5) and those of the conveyor (7, 7′) with the decoration, rotating the objects (5) by means of the movement of the conveyor (7, 7′) and applying the necessary heat to the conveyor (7, 7′). Such processes and devices are used in the foodstuffs and beverages industry among others to decorate cylindrical packings of different materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas L. Brandt, Daniel N. Willkens, Neal D. Turner, Harold N. Turner
  • Patent number: 6508287
    Abstract: An adhesive tape applicator of the present invention comprises a first holding piece 2 and a second holding piece 3 for holding a door sash frame therebetween, the first holding piece 2 having at least one elastic rollers 5 for pressing the adhesive tape against an object face of the door sash frame, the second holding piece 3 having at least one guide rollers 6 being provided on the opposite side to the object face of the door sash frame, the guide rollers 6 having a groove 6a engaging with a rib 6 extending in the longitudinal direction of the door sash frame. The adhesive tape applicator is capable of applying the adhesive tape to the door sash frame of an automobile stably and accurately, and further provides an adhesive tape applicator which is capable of applying the adhesive tape with improved operability and speedily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Kansai Paint Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuhiko Shinozaki, Hisashi Ando