Abstract: Subject matter described in this disclosure relates to a label applicator for varied surfaces. In some instances, the label applicator may include one or more elements that may adjust to individual package properties and may adjust from one package to the next. For example, in one aspect the label applicator may include a label-retaining surface that is nonlinear. In other examples, the label applicator may include a force attenuator that dampens compressive forces between the label applicator and the package. In a further example, the label applicator may include an articulating joint that permits pivotable adjustment when a label applicator contacts a package. In yet another example, the label applicator may include a magnetic coupling attaching the label applicator to an actuator to provide a breakaway and reattachment mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for transport and processing of sectioned biological samples. Preferred embodiments provide for use of a plurality of imaging and processing modalities to characterize sectioned tissue samples. Automated operation of the system provides for multimodal imaging and multistage processing to provide three-dimensional (3D) datasets for each sample.

Abstract: A pressure self-adjustment apparatus within a heat press to close a heating assembly containing a drinkware product. The apparatus has an electric linear actuator with a motor driving a gear box driving a piston rod against a heating assembly. The actuator is connected to a die spring providing compression against the linear actuator. A limit switch is positioned beneath the die spring and positioned to engage the linear actuator when it compresses the die spring a desired amount.

Abstract: Disclosed is a conveying system comprising: a track, a plurality of carriages to be conveyed on the track, each carriage comprising: a main body which is held along the track; and a receptacle rotatably supported by the main body and configured for receiving a product, and further comprising a receptacle-rotating member which is configured to advance, at a defined advancing speed, along a region provided at at least a portion of the track, and to control the rotational orientation of the carriage's receptacles; wherein each carriage can be in engagement, via its receptacle, with the receptacle-rotating member.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing a supply chain for a perishable product. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a quality code for a perishable product which encodes a cut-to-cool time, transportation quality and accumulated shelf-life loss into a compact, modular, and simple to read format. The system and method also provide feedback to address any differences between the quality code and one or more observed qualities of the perishable product at a destination.

Abstract: A label dispenser for peel-off labels pulls a web with peel-off labels attached from a label supply location to a take-up spool. The label dispenser maintains the web in a taut condition when the web passes over a peeling edge by providing first and second rods about which the web wraps in a sinuous flow path on the feed side of the peeling edge. The take-up spool resists turning in the reverse direction to maintain the web in a taut condition. A cam is selectably rotatable about an axis that is spaced apart from the center of curvature at each location on the curved surface that may contact the web to adjust the thickness of the flow path of the web at the peeling edge.

Abstract: A safety lifting device for positioning a labelling unit in a vertical direction (Z) in relation to a flow of objects where the labelling unit is arranged for printing labels and/or applying labels to the objects. The lifting device includes a linear actuator, a balancing unit, a drive unit connected to the linear actuator, and a movable section. The labelling unit is connected to the movable section. The linear actuator is connected to the movable section and arranged to control the position of the labelling unit. The balancing unit is arranged to counterbalance the gravitational force exerted on the linear actuator. The movable section of the lifting device includes an upper stand unit, and the lifting device further includes a lower stand unit. The upper stand unit is movably arranged in relation to the lower stand unit in the vertical direction.

Abstract: An automated clip application system for fitting clips in an automotive assembly line includes a cassette receiving station for receiving at least one cassette preloaded with a plurality of clips. The clips in the cassette are arranged in the same orientation. A dispensing opening dispenses clips from the cassette one at a time, and a robotic member is programmed to pick up the clips, one at a time, after they have been dispensed from the dispensing opening and fasten each clip in position in an automotive assembly.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing a supply chain for a perishable product. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a quality code for a perishable product which encodes a plurality of the most important performance metrics of the cold chain for the perishable product, including food quality oriented measures such as cut-to-cool time, transportation quality and accumulated shelf-life loss, and food safety oriented measures such as most probable number range for microorganism growth into a compact, modular and simple to read format.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a zipper closure to polymeric film using minimal tension on the zipper closure includes providing first and second tension control loops, an eyemark detector, and a hole punch programmed to punch a hole in the zipper closure upon detection of the eyemark. The zipper closure and the film are supplied to a sealing station at the same speed, and the hole zipper closure is aligned with the eyemark on the film, to result in sealing the strip of zipper closure to the film resulting in minimal wrinkles to the resulting bag.

Abstract: A label dispenser for peel-off labels pulls a web with peel-off labels attached from a label supply location to a take-up spool. The label dispenser maintains the web in a taut condition when the web passes over a peeling edge by providing first and second rods about which the web wraps in a sinuous flow path on the feed side of the peeling edge. The take-up spool resists turning in the reverse direction to maintain the web in a taut condition. A cam is selectably rotatable about an axis that is spaced apart from the center of curvature at each location on the curved surface that may contact the web to adjust the thickness of the flow path of the web at the peeling edge.

Abstract: A mechanism used to select a label size to be applied to a cable in a label applicator. The mechanism includes an index plate, an index arm, and a wedge carrier. The index arm is pivotably mounted to the index plate and the wedge carrier is mounted to the index plate. The wedge carrier has guide rollers that dictate a label path. The index arm moves the index plate which linearly moves the wedge carrier thereby adjusting the label path in the label applicator.

Abstract: A sheet separating device includes a stacker, a pickup member, an air supplier, and a sheet floating restraint. The stacker is configured to stack a plurality of sheets. The pickup member is configured to convey the plurality of sheets one by one from the stacker. The air supplier includes an air outlet, at a downstream side of the stacker in a sheet conveyance direction. The air supplier is configured to blow air toward a downstream end of the plurality of sheets in the sheet conveyance direction. The sheet floating restraint is configured to restrict floating of a part of the plurality of sheets separated by air blown from the air outlet. The sheet floating restraint is replaceable with another sheet floating restraint. The sheet floating restraint and said another sheet floating restraint have respective shapes different from each other.

Abstract: A head of a tag device having a body, at least one row of negative-pressure through holes and at least one row of positive-pressure through holes. The body has a first surface and a second surface. The rows of negative and positive-pressure through holes are formed through the first and second surfaces of the body and arranged along a long-axis direction. Two negative and positive-pressure through holes at both ends of the corresponding row of negative and positive-pressure through holes are respectively close to the short sides of the body. Therefore, an effective labeling area is distributed between two short sides. The head of the tag device of the present invention provides a stable labeling operation for different products where different components are mounted and increases units per hour (UPH).

Abstract: A device for processing of flat elements, especially for the processing of paper blanks, is described. This device comprises a conveyor belt (25) that is guided over a first roller (12a) and a second roller (12b), said conveyor belt being made of metal and being permeable to air, wherein its upper section forms the transport section (25a) and its lower section forms the return section (25b), and a vacuum generator being located under the upper section of the conveyor belt. A laser (30) for cutting the flat elements is located above the transport section (25a). In order to achieve an improved flatness and an increased durability, the conveyor belt (25) consists of an expanded metal.

Abstract: A holographic foil supplying device for a hot foil stamping machine has a reel (26) for holographic foil (20), an advancement system (24) for advancing the holographic foil (20) along a movement path (P) in a feeding direction (F) and a frame (22) supporting the reel (26) and the advancement system (24), wherein the frame (22) comprises a mount (30) for mounting the holographic foil supplying device (18) to the hot foil stamping machine. Further, a hot foil stamping machine is shown.

Abstract: A label-affixing device includes a plate and a shape-conforming tamp pad. The plate is configured to move between a first position and a second position. The shape-conforming tamp pad includes a base structure including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The shape-conforming tamp pad further includes appendages extending from the second surface of the base structure. The first surface of the shape-conforming tamp pad is mounted to the plate. The appendages are configured to at least one of individually compress or individually deform to apply an adhesive label to a non-planar surface of an object responsive to the plate moving from the first position to the second position.

Abstract: Tamper-proofing and secure identity validation techniques in a transaction processing system and secure electronic payment techniques are disclosed. A tamper-proof transaction processing device is provided and comprises at least two different strength adhesives to secure parts of the device together and a housing comprising at least a first and second protective layer. An electronic component comprising a secure element chip storing unique information relating to the chip is located between the first and second protective layer in the housing. In another aspect, a transaction processing system includes a payment instrument that is configured to approve only negative value and/or zero value transaction requests. Another aspect provides an identity card checking system and method where the identity card is brought into proximity of a data processing device and identity information is displayed on the screen of the data processing device for the period of time while the card is in proximity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for applying stamps to a group of packages wherein the stamps are arranged in a predetermined pattern and the packages in the group are arranged in a different pattern, using an apparatus having one or more carriages moveable in the x- and/or y-directions.

Abstract: A labeling device includes a printer configured to print labels each having a barcode on a print side of the label opposite an adhesive side of the label. The printer is also configured to direct each printed label in a direction of travel. The device includes a label applicator located downstream of the printer with respect to the direction of travel. The device also includes a barcode scanner that is located downstream of the printer with respect to the direction of travel and is configured to scan the barcode of each label before the label applicator presses the label against the package.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a conveyor system that optimizes a gap between items. The gap is optimized to maximize throughput of the conveyor system with respect to bottlenecks in the conveyor system, such as label applicators that print and apply label to items that are being advanced through the conveyor system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for supporting a paper roll in a paper bucket of a printer are provided. The paper bucket may comprise a curved base portion for accepting paper rolls of varying widths, two oppositely disposed side walls movably mounted to the curved base portion, and a two-part spring-loaded spindle assembly extending through each of the side walls and adapted to support a paper roll therebetween. Each spindle assembly may comprise a first spring loaded spindle part and a second spring loaded spindle part movably connected to one another.

Abstract: A mark-fabric material includes a mark-fabric including, in the following sequence, microfibers, an adhesive layer including a thermoplastic resin having a melt flow rate of 100 g/10 min or less, and a release sheet.

Abstract: Labeling machine, particularly for labeling containers, comprising a rotating carousel for supporting pans, at least one pair of identical labeling assemblies being provided which are arranged consecutively at the peripheral region of the rotating carousel, each one of the labeling assemblies being associated with a slider slidable on guides between a forward active position, for applying the labels to the containers supported by the rotating carousel, and a retracted position, designed to load a reel of tape provided with the labels, the protective structure, which surrounds the rotating carousel, having, at each labeling assembly, a door movable by the action of elements that connect the door to the slider which supports the labeling assembly between an open position, assumed when the labeling assembly is in the forward position, and a closed position, assumed when the labeling assembly is in the retracted position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a labeler and a method for applying labels onto an article strip, wherein a transfer device is moved continuously when said labels are pressed on and a lifting device of said transfer device comprises a height-adjustable actuator.

Abstract: A label attaching device includes a substrate moving unit configured to move a substrate in a first direction, a labeler configured to attach a label to the substrate, and a first labeler moving unit coupled to the labeler, the first labeler moving unit being configured to move the labeler in the first direction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is described herein for automatically labeling using labels having a fluid activatable adhesive along the back surface of the label. The apparatus includes a dispensing magazine for retaining a stack of labels, a first rotating transfer member, and an adhesive activation station aligned with the rotating transfer member. The dispensing magazine includes a dispensing end and a loading end. The first rotating transfer member is rotated in close proximity to the stack of labels and includes at least one belt having multiple openings for communication of suction to enable the belt to receive and releasably secure the front of the labels. The adhesive activation station is configured to apply to a fluid to the back of the labels to activate the adhesive such that the adhesive becomes tacky along the back surface of the label.

Abstract: The use of a heat idler moveable along a path provides speed and flexibility in the heat labeling of containers.

Abstract: A labelling machine comprises a main supporting frame (2) on which a carrousel (6) is mounted, the carrousel being equipped with supporting means for the objects to be labelled. A plurality of labelling devices (12) is positioned radially along the edge of the carrousel (6) for applying labels to objects placed on the carrousel (6). The main supporting frame (2) has a guiding and supporting track (17) to which the labelling devices (12) are slidably connected so that they can be placed at different positions along the edge of the carrousel (6). The machine also comprises a plurality of connecting modules (26) equipped with first coupling means (27) allowing sliding coupling to the track (17), and second coupling means (28) for reversibly coupling each labelling device (12) to a connecting module (26).

Abstract: Various embodiments of the apparatus and methods are configured to make containers such as disposable reinforced cups using reinforcing members configured to be respectively attached to cups. The apparatus and method of various embodiments of the present disclosure sequentially heat different or selective portions of the heat activated adhesive on the reinforcing member at multiple sequential stages, steps or times to attach the reinforcing member to the container.

Abstract: Label application devices and methods of printing and applying labels are described herein. One label application device can comprise a feed component configured to deliver a sheet of label material to a position, a product identification component configured to identify a type of a product that is approaching the position, a printing component configured to print data onto the sheet of label material, the data based on the identified type of product, a stripping component configured to remove a liner portion of the sheet of label material from a label portion of the sheet, and an applicator component configured to apply the label portion to the product.

Abstract: A method of dispersing semiconductor chips from a wafer of semiconductor chips onto a substrate while preserving the neighboring relationship of each chip to each adjacent chip is disclosed. The method includes dispersing the wafer into sequential columns of semiconductor chips with a first pitch between columns while preserving the neighboring relationship and sequentially dispersing the columns of semiconductor chips into rows of individual chips with a second pitch between rows onto a substrate while preserving the neighboring relationship.

Abstract: A prepreg lamination head and a prepreg automatic lamination apparatus with the same is provided. By using them, the curling-up of the cut terminal portion of the prepreg sheet can be prevented. The prepreg lamination head includes: a first roller, a second roller, and a forward-placed paper liner peeling device. The forward-placed paper liner peeling device includes a third roller, which is provided between and above the first and second rollers. The paper liner attached on the first side of the prepreg sheet is peeled off right after passing the first roller. The peeled paper liner is hanged over the third roller between the first and second rollers. The third roller guides the peeled paper liner to the second roller. The prepreg sheet is pressed on the laminated body with the second roller through the paper liner.

Abstract: An applicator roll (1) is described for a labeling apparatus for paying out and applying self-adhesive labels, which with each operating cycle moves one self-adhesive label into a dispensing position underneath an applicator roll. Depending on the printing mechanism used in the labeling apparatus, whether printing an even or an odd number of digits, it is advantageous to arranged a profiled ring (32) formed on a sleeve (31) of the applicator roll (1) in the center or off center. In addition, label formats of different widths require applicator rolls of different widths. These problems are solved in the applicator roll (1) described here in that its sleeve (31) supports two cylindrical jackets (34) on either side of the profiled ring (32). The cylindrical jackets (34) are axially displaceable on the sleeve (31) and can be releasably, positively locked in several positions against axial shifting, preferably by mutual engagement of an annular collar (38) and an annular groove (40).

Abstract: The invention relates to a labelling apparatus comprising a blow device which allows compressed-air controlled delivery of a label to an object to be labelled, wherein the blow device comprises a compressed-air providing device, a plurality of nozzles for applying compressed air to the label, a distribution space which is operatively connected for fluid communication with the compressed-air providing device and the nozzles, and at least one deflector which is arranged in the distribution space, wherein the distribution space has arranged therein a porous device which surrounds the at least one deflector.

Abstract: A multifunction device for prefabricating marking labels, having a top side configured to be printed on and a bottom side opposite the top side with a profiling, includes a printing device and at least one of a separating device and a perforation device. A feeder unit is configured to feed blank marking labels of a finite-length or endless material. A holder element including a recess is configured to receive the marking labels, including the profiling, so as to fix the marking labels in position during a passing over of the printing device and the at least one of the separating device and perforation device.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for labeling machines for applying labels, which are supplied via a carrier belt carrying a plurality of labels, to bottles and in particular to bottle necks, has a dispensing arm and a dispensing head which is arranged on the dispensing arm and has a dispensing edge for deflecting the carrier belt in order thereby to detach a respective label, wherein the dispensing edge and/or the dispensing head is pivotable in order to adjust a movement direction of the labels being detached from the carrier belt.

Abstract: Continuous motion label transferring apparatus includes a non-stick surface between a peel point and a pinch point. A label unwinder continuously passes a first web along a path towards the pinch point. The first web includes a series of spaced labels having pressure sensitive self-adhesive on a surface to which a liner of release material is releasably attached. As the release liner travels around the peel point, the labels continue to move toward the pinch point, passing over the nonstick surface as they approach the pinch point. A target mover passes a succession of spaced targets through the pinch point adjacent the self-adhesive surface of the labels, so that the labels are individually adhered to the targets. A control system for the label unwinder monitors the target mover, and synchronizes the labels and targets in a desired manner. The distance between the peel point and the pinch point is set so that the labels can be fed continuously into the pinch point in registration with the targets.

Abstract: A marking or labeling machine which includes at least one marking or labeling member and a feed mechanism for bringing workpieces for marking or labeling into register with the at least one marking or labeling member. The feed mechanism includes at least two arms mounted to turn about a common first axis, with each arm carrying at least one support member for supporting a workpiece for marking or labeling, and also includes secondly independent drives for driving each of the arms in rotation about the common first axis independently of the other arm.

Abstract: There is disclosed a configurable modular labeling machine and a method of making same. The machine can be selectively assembled in a number of different configurations. The machine has a frame or housing that can mount selectively positionable applicator and rewind modules. The applicator module includes a plate that can carry direction-changing and feed rolls and can mount a dispensing mechanism. The rewind module can include a plate that can mount direction-changing rolls and a rewind.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a heating station, a laminating and transfer-printing station, and a molding station in succession, and a transport arrangement that transports the material being processed among the stations. In the heating station, a substrate is pre-heated and consolidated. In the laminating and transfer-printing station, a decorative cover layer is laminated onto the substrate and simultaneously a surface decoration (design, pattern, image, colors, text, etc.) is transfer-printed by sublimation of inks or dyes from a transfer paper onto an outer surface of the decorative cover layer. The resulting laminated body with a transfer-printed surface decoration is then three-dimensionally deformed and molded to form a three-dimensionally contoured, molded, laminated article with the transfer-printed surface decoration. The article may be a motor vehicle interior trim component.

Abstract: Appliance for applying labels to receptacles, which comprises a transport device that transport the receptacles to be labeled along a predefined transport path, and comprises a first pressing-on unit that presses the labels onto an outer wall of the receptacles, the first pressing-on unit having a brush device having a multiplicity of bristles that extend in the direction of the receptacles. According to the invention, the first pressing-on unit, at least in a partial region of the first pressing-on unit, is shorter, in the longitudinal direction of the receptacles, than the label to be applied.

Abstract: An auxiliary machine for labelling machines of the type including a supply of labels (10) for application on packages (4) for goods and a thermal printer (6) for the provision of informative prints on the labels, is provided. The auxiliary machine has a stand (14) connectable to the labelling machine and on which there is supported a supply of coverings (16), which are detachably attached to a tape (23), a mechanism for advancing the tape (23) to a picking tool (20) for picking off individual coverings from the tape and applying the same on individual labels (10), as well as a dispenser (19) for the discharge of a substance loading on the individual label. Advantageously, in the auxiliary machine, a stamping tool (25) may also be included for stamping of cavities in the coverings or labels.

Abstract: A lay-up head receives a prepreg bonded to a support tape, and the prepreg is separated from its support tape by peeling, by means of a separator just upstream of a depositing member for depositing the prepreg tape on a deposition tool; the head includes, downstream of the separator, a retractable device for moving the prepreg away from the support tape, allowing the prepreg to be moved away just upstream of the separator, by means of which the prepreg can be separated earlier when the retractable device is activated.

Abstract: A sheet attaching apparatus includes a non-adhesive guide sheet for leading the peeled sheet to the attaching position while keeping away from the substrate; a stopper to which forward edges of the substrate and the sheet contact, movable between a position across the feed path and a position off the feed path; a movable press roller for pressing the forward portion of the sheet onto the forward portion of the substrate to attach the sheet onto the substrate at the attaching position; and a feed roller arranged facing the press roller and for discharging the adhered sheet and substrate from the attaching position. The guide sheet has slits extending in the feed direction at the forward portion. The press roller presses the forward portion of the sheet to the forward portion of the substrate through the slits so as to attach the sheet S onto the substrate.

Abstract: A labeling system for applying an adhesive backed name tape to a name badge. The system includes a base member or fixture having a seat for receiving the name badge and a pair of spacedly disposed bridge members supported by the base member adjacent respective ends of the seat. The adhesive backed name tape is positioned over the name badge, extending between the pair of bridge members and spaced from the name badge. The bridge members preferably have a ribbed upper contact surface. A roller is used for contacting a top surface of the adhesive backed name tape so as to apply the adhesive backed name tape to the name badge.

Abstract: A cutting and transfer drum in a continuous-film labeling machine, which allows disassembly into sectors comprised between two contiguous blades, each sector being provided with elements for locking in the active position, which comprise a rotating rod which is provided with an actuation crank, said rod having a portion which is adapted to mate with a reference element provided on the sector, elements adapted to retain the sector in the locking position, a cam adapted to make contact with an abutment provided on the sector, so as to ensure a contact pressure of the sector on a supporting ring which ensures the retention of the fluid that provides suction.

Abstract: There is disclosed a hand-held portable labeler that enables the label web supply to be quickly threaded into the labeler. The path of the carrier web for the labels from the nip of the print head and platen roll, about the delaminator, into the nip between the platen roll and a pressure roll, and out of the labeler is short and the pressure roll is widely separable from the platen roll to facilitate threading.

Abstract: Presented herein is a unique portable electronic hand-held label dispenser that is adjustable to accommodate labels of various widths by lengthening the pins and replacing a lower guide plate, and which additionally incorporates a sensor mechanism that precisely determines the length of each label, in order to accurately advance the roll of labels according to the captured data and dispense a single label at a time, and which includes the added advantage of a unique slotted uptake wheel that efficiently collects the paper backing for easy disposal. Depressing an electronic switch causes a label to be dispensed and also activates the sensor mechanism, which allows a roll of labels to advance until the end of the next label is identified, indicating that the roll has been advanced the full length of a single label, and additionally the uptake wheel rotates to capture the discarded paper backing.

Abstract: The use of a heat idler moveable along a path provides speed and flexibility in the heat labeling of containers.