WO1999020533A1

WO1999020533A1 - Automated labeller

Info

Publication number: WO1999020533A1
Application number: PCT/US1998/022061
Authority: WO
Inventors: William R. Reitheimer
Original assignee: Automated Systems Technology, L.L.C.
Priority date: 1997-10-17
Filing date: 1998-10-16
Publication date: 1999-04-29
Also published as: AU1101799A

Abstract

A labelling machine (20) for placing labels onto rows of tray-supported articles carried by a moving conveyor is comprised of a label transfer mechanism (40) having an applicator positioned to apply a label to an article moved into communication with the applicator, and a support (38) configured to removably carry the label transfer mechanism. According to another implementation, a labelling machine (20) is comprised of a label transfer mechanism (40) having an applicator positioned to apply a label to an article delivered in association with the applicator; a support frame (38) configured to carry the label transfer mechanism such that the applicator is positioned to deliver labels to articles delivered thereby; and a print head (64) provided in association with the label transfer mechanism and operative to print information on labels prior to transfer via the applicator to an article.

Description

DESCRIPTION AUTOMATED LABELLER Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of the U .S. patent application Serial No . 08/953,252 filed October 17, 1997. Technical Field

This invention relates to automated labelling machines and the like . More particularly, this invention relates to improved label transfer mechanisms for storing, printing and applying labels to tray supported articles such as produce that are capable of being delivered along a conveyor in close association with the label transfer mechanism. Background Art

One previously known way of applying labels to articles is to utilize a hand-held label machine, or labeller, operable by a user to apply labels to individual articles needing identification. Several such hand-held labellers are presently commercially available . One hand held labeller representative of such devices is disclosed in U .S. Patent No . 5,015,324 to Goodwin et al. This labeller has a thermal print head for custom printing of information onto labels. The labels are then individually hand-applied . However, one problem with such hand-held labellers is the inability of a user to print and apply labels at a fast enough rate to process a large number of articles as they are being sorted and delivered during an automated storing, stacking and delivering operation . For example , the labelling of different grades and sizes of fruit or vegetables during a sorting and/or packing operation requires a faster operation. Another previously known way of applying labels to articles involves the use of an automated labelling machine such as that disclosed in U .S . Patent No. 4,194,941 to Briggs, et al. According to such a device , a mechanism is presented for automatically labelling articles by delivering the articles via a delivery chute where they are guided into contact with an upstanding label, As each article engages with a label, the label is transferred to the article , which causes movement of a new label into a transfer position. The new label is then ready to be delivered to a subsequent article that is delivered into contact with the upstanding new label. However, the use of such a labelling machine requires that the labels be applied prior to the sorting and stacking operation. Such a machine will not work well with many existing high-speed packing house sorting and stacking lines. The articles are labelled during a delivery process prior to sorting and stacking which often leads to labels being damaged or inadvertently removed during subsequent sorting or stacking. Removed labels present a problem because the articles can no longer be identified and the labels, which come off during transport of the articles, can reattach themselves to components of the processing machine , which can gum up or restrict operation of the machine . Therefore , there is a need to apply labels subsequent to a delivering and sorting operation such that the labels are less susceptible of being inadvertently removed during transport of the articles. Yet another previously known way of labelling articles is disclosed in U .S.

Patent No . 5,387,302 to Bernard, et al. According to such a method and apparatus, labels are automatically applied to individual articles such as fruit or vegetables. Articles are first sorted into trays having parallel rows of indentations sized to receive articles being labelled. The articles are disposed for storage and delivery in the trays in single-file lines, and the trays and stored articles are delivered via a continuously moving conveyor. The rows are disposed during delivery perpendicular to the advance direction of the conveyor. At least one labelling head is moved over a row of the indentations with composite rectilinear translation motion. Such motion results from a combination of longitudinal advance motion corresponding to the motion of the conveyor in combination with a transfer motion perpendicular to the conveyor such that a label is placed successively on each article in a row. Such operation is renewed for each of the rows of a tray being labelled. However, such labelling cannot be implemented downstream of the drop , where articles are loaded into trays for later stacking and loading into crates or boxes, due to the number of articles and the speed with which the trays are conveyed during processing. Furthermore , such a method and apparatus is highly complicated, takes up a considerable amount of space along a processing line since the machine is relatively large and cumbersome , and requires considerably more components, maintenance , complexity, and cost to implement.

Therefore , there exist additional needs to provide for automated tray- labelling of articles being delivered during a sorting and packing operation. More particularly, there exists a need for a machine capable of printing and applying labels to tray-supported articles prior to being loaded into storage crates/boxes such that the articles are quickly and properly labelled and the labels are less susceptible of being removed during transport, sorting, and packing. There exists a further need for a label transfer mechanism that is simplified, enabling easier removal of label transfer mechanisms for maintenance, replacement of associated components, and reloading of empty label reels. Yet even further there exists a need for an automated labeller that can print and apply labels by reconfiguring desired information printed onto a label such that an article is properly labelled with label information on a label.

Objects, features and advantages of this invention are to provide such an automated labelling machine suitable for use with tray-labelling downstream of the drop where articles have been loaded into trays and providing for quick and easy presentment of desired information onto a label when it is delivered to sorted and tray-supported articles. Brief Description of the Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the following accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an automated labelling machine illustrated in connection with a delivery conveyor of a sizer located downstream of the drop for delivering tray-supported fruit articles;

Fig. 2 is a plan view of the automated labelling machine and sizer conveyor of Fig. 1 ; Fig. 3 is an enlarged exploded perspective view illustrating one of the print and apply label transfer mechanisms used in the labelling machine of Figs. 1 and 2, but shown from an opposite side of that depicted in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 4 is an elevational view taken along line 4-4 of Fig. 1 showing one label transfer mechanism of the label machine applying a label to an article of fruit that is supported within a moving tray;

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of one of the label transfer mechanisms taken generally in the direction of Fig. 1 and showing removable cassette mounting features present on a removable label transfer mechanism;

Fig. 6 is a vertical sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Fig. 4 and illustrating the drive wheel assembly;

Fig. 7 is an enlarged perspective view illustrating an alternatively constructed cassette having mounting features similar to the cassette of Fig. 5; and

Fig. 8 is a sectional view taken along line 8-8 of Fig. 7 illustrating a label reel loaded into the cassette .

Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention and Disclosure of Invention In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a labelling machine for placing labels onto rows of tray-supported articles carried by a conveyor is comprised of a label transfer mechanism having an applicator positioned to apply a label to an article brought into communication with the applicator. The labelling machine also includes a support configured to removably carry the label transfer mechanism.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a labelling machine is comprised of a label transfer mechanism having an applicator positioned to apply a label to an article delivered in association with the applicator. The labelling machine also includes a support frame configured to carry the label transfer mechanism such that the applicator is positioned to deliver labels to articles delivered thereby/ A print head is also provided in association with the label transfer mechanism and is operative to print information on labels prior to transfer via the applicator to an article . A preferred embodiment automated labelling machine in accordance with the invention is first described with reference to Figures 1-6. Such figures show various aspects and dimensional characteristics described further below with respect to an automated labelling machine . The automated labelling machine is designated in Figures 1-6 generally with reference numeral 20. Automated labelling machine 20 comprises a plurality of label transfer mechanisms 40 which are individually removably received and supported by a support frame 38. Support frame 38 carries individual mechanisms 40 above a conveyor 22 in locations where they are operative to apply individual labels 44 to articles being delivered by conveyor 22 as shown in Figure 2. According to this implementation, conveyor 22 comprises a sizer conveyor located downstream of a fruit-sorting machine and immediately following the location where sorted fruit is "dropped" onto trays for delivery to a stacking and packaging station. Articles 24, such as fruit, are sorted and stowed for transport in trays 26 along conveyor 22 and beneath mechanisms 40. A typical sorting machine can have many drop locations, feeding several sizer conveyors, each having a dedicated automated labelling machine 20. Articles 24 are depicted in Figures 1 , 2 and 4 in the form of apples. However, articles 24 can take on other forms such as vegetables or articles being manufactured, sorted, recycled and/or delivered.

According to one construction, a plurality of individual label transfer mechanisms 40 are each removably supported in support frame 38 in adjacent, side-by-side relation as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Each individual label transfer mechanism 40 is operative to apply labels to a dedicated row of articles 24 situated on tray 26. For example , one of label transfer mechanisms 40 is configured to apply labels to articles 24 within row 32. Another of label transfer mechanisms 40 is configured to apply labels 44 to each of articles 24 presented within row 33. Similar label transfer mechanisms 40 are supported for dedicated application of labels 44 to each of rows 34 and 35, respectively.

Sizer conveyor 22 includes an endless conveyor belt 28 that is supported for rotation by a plurality of rollers 30. At least one of rollers 30, preferably adjacent a return end of belt 28, is driven by a drive motor of a sizer machine to movably drive conveyor belt 28. In this manner, a plurality of trays 26 are carried by belt 28 and delivered to pass directly beneath labelling machine 20. Prior to labelling, articles 24 have been pre-sorted and loaded within inαentations 36 of tray 26 in a previous, upstream processing operation. A sorting machine receives articles from a supply hopper (not shown) to be sorted, transferring the articles to a singulator section where they are re-presented in several single rows where they are sorted by size . The articles, sorted by size, then enter individual rows comprising transfer sections which transfer the articles for delivery into each row 32-35 on each tray 26. Typically, the transfer section is a row of size- sorted articles that are dropped into individual rows of a tray. Trays 26 are transported on conveyor 22 downstream of the drop location for labelling, followed by stacking and loading into crates. According to one sorting and loading operation, articles 24 are arranged such that a smooth and presentable surface of article 24 is placed in close proximity with each of label transfer mechanisms 40. Hence, labels 44 are better able to be adhered directly thereon. For example , for the case where articles 24 comprise apples, the stems are preferably oriented to extend in a lateral, or horizontal, plane such that a smooth apple surface is presented upwardly for receiving a label 44.

Each of label transfer mechanisms 40 depicted in Figure 1 comprises a cassette 60, a main plate 62, a print head assembly 64, a peel plate in-feed idler roller 128, a peel plate assembly 66, and a drive wheel assembly as shown in greater detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Cassette 60 is configured to receive a label reel 42 containing a supply of labels 40 by simply dropping reel 42 into cassette 60. Main plate 62 is configured to removably receive cassette 60 which facilitates simplified maintenance , repair and cassette customization. Print head assembly 64 is carried on main plate 62 and is operative to print customizable information onto labels 44 as they are delivered through assembly 64. Idler roller 128 guides labels 44, which are carried on a carrier 46, onto peel plate assembly 66 where labels 44 are removed from carrier 46 and delivered onto articles 24 (see Fig. 4) as they are being labelled.

As shown in Figure 4, drive wheel assembly 68 is operated to apply delivery tension to carrier 46. The delivery tension from drive wheel assembly 68 assists print head assembly 64 with metered delivery of labels 44 as needed to articles 24. Drive wheel assembly 68 is geared to be driven slightly faster than a feed roller 142 of print head assembly 64 in order to apply tension to carrier 46 between drive wheel assembly 68 and print head assembly 64. Carrier segment 144 and carrier segment 146 cooperate to apply tension so as to rotatably bias peel plate assembly 66 to a downwardly extending position. Carrier segment 144 extends from roller 128 to a guide roller 120 on peel plate assembly 66 and around a delivery edge 121. Carrier segment 146 extends from a drive wheel assembly 68 to edge 121 , adjacent roller 124. According to one

TM construction, guide roller 120 is formed from Teflon material. According to another construction, peel plate assembly 66 includes a peel plate member 67

TM that is formed from a Teflon material. Alternatively, peel plate member 67

TM can be formed from Delrin material. Also according to one construction, application roller 124 is formed from a resilient flexible material. It is to be understood that other equivalent materials can be utilized in constructing roller 120, peel plate member 67, and application roller 124. Such a downward biasing of peel plate assembly 66 ensures contact between roller 124 and articles 24. Carrier 46 doubles back over a delivery edge 121 provided immediately adjacent roller 124. Such doubling back causes labels 44 to peel from carrier 46 alongside roller 124 such that roller 124 engages and applies a label 44 to article 24.

One improvement presented by labelling machine 20 according to this invention comprises each of label transfer mechanisms 40 being removably received and carried by support 38 as shown in Figures 1 , 2 and 4. Such a removable feature facilitates maintenance , repair, and loading/unloading of label transfer mechanisms 40 when a labelling operation is being reconfigured, adjusted, and/or disassembled. A label transfer mechanism 40, upon being loaded into frame 38, is situated such that an applicator comprising a peel plate assembly 66 (see Fig. 3) is presented for contact with each article 24 as it is passed directly beneath. In this manner, the label delivery locations of labelling machine 20 can be easily adjusted by adjusting or tailoring the locations and depths of a plurality of slots 63 within frame 38, each pair of opposed slots 63 being configured to receive a single label transfer mechanism 40. Essentially, the number and positioning of each label transfer mechanism 40 within frame 38 can be laterally adjusted or varied according to the desired needs and location of rows provided within tray 26 by modifying the construction of frame 38 to have desired slot locations. Alternatively, the number and location (to a limited extent) of rows can be modified by removing selected label transfer mechanisms 40. For example , if a change is made in the relative size of articles 24, the inter-row spacing will be correspondingly changed to provide an appropriate amount of room for each article being received within an appropriately sized indentation 36. Accordingly, the spacing between adjacent label transfer mechanisms 40 will need to be adjusted. Hence , the spacing of slots 63 within frame 38 can be changed by modifying frame 38 to provide for different spacing between adjacent slots. Similarly, for the case where the number of rows is increased, it may be desirable to remove one of the label transfer mechanisms 40 where it is no longer necessary.

Another suitable feature provided by this invention is to incorporate an adjustment feature into the design of frame 38 such that the positioning of frame 38 and label transfer mechanisms 40 can be adjusted for alignment directly above each of rows 32-35. In this manner, frame 38 can be adjusted laterally, fore/aft, elevationally, and rotatably in an effort to align and position label transfer mechanisms 40 to apply labels to desired articles being delivered therebelow. One technique is to mount frame 38 to an adjustable/repositionable support frame that extends above conveyor 22. Another technique for providing indexed alignment between each label transfer mechanism 40 and each row 32-35 is to position an alignment guide along conveyor 28. Such a guide would be operative to situate trays 26 in a desired location on conveyor 28 as they move into engagement with the guide (which is preferably stationary) . Accordingly, indexed alignment of each tray ensures that each of label transfer mechanisms 40 will deposit a label 44 onto an associated article 24 within each of rows 32- 35.

Another improvement provided by the automated labelling machine 20 of this invention includes the provision of a vacuum waste collection apparatus 48 as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Vacuum waste collection apparatus 48 is operative to retrieve and collect scrap material consisting of release paper carriers 46 which exit each of label transfer mechanisms 40 via aperture 81 (see Fig. 4) during a label application process. Release paper carrier 46 comprises a storage web on which individual labels 44 are carried in the form of a label reel 42. Vacuum waste collection apparatus 48 comprises a common entrance inlet 52 formed in the shape of a substantially frustoconical tubular inlet portion, an inlet tube 54, a vacuum source 50, an outlet tube 56, and a collection drum 58. Although only a single drum 58 is shown in Figure 1 , it is expected that two drums will be used side-by-side such that upon the filling of one drum, the second drum can be moved into position beneath outlet 256, enabling storage and/or disposal of the collected carrier 46 collected within the first drum. Release paper carriers 46 are fed into inlet pipe 52 at the beginning of a labelling operation and a vacuum source 50 applies a vacuum such that release paper carriers 46 are drawn into inlet pipe 52, through inlet tube 54, out through outlet tube 56 and into collection drum 58 where they are collected and stored for recycling or later disposal. Vacuum source 50, inlet tube 54, and outlet tube 56 can take on any geometric shape suitable for vacuum delivery of carriers 46, including the two configurations depicted in Figures 1 and 2. For the case where labelling machine assembly 20 is used downstream from the article drop location of a sorting machine , inlet tube 54 can be configured as a plurality of inlet tubes that are run adjacent to the sizer, enabling collection of carriers 46 from more than one labelling machine assembly 21 provided for each conveyor 22 of the sorter machine .

Yet another improvement provided by automated labelling machine 20 comprises the manner that individual label rolls 42 are quickly and easily loaded into each of label transfer mechanisms 40. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, individual label reels 42 are provided with a central opening 43 which is typically mounted on a delivery spindle in prior art devices. However, according to the one implementation depicted in Figures 1-6, label transfer mechanism 40 comprises a spindle-less construction wherein individual label reels 42 are dropped into a cassette 60 as shown in Figure 3. According to such a construction, no tools or disassembly are needed when unloading a nearly empty label reel 42, or when loading a new label reel, from a label transfer mechanism 40. An alternatively constructed implementation for a cassette 260 for supporting a label reel 42 is shown with reference to Figures 7 and 8 wherein a modified spindleless construction utilizes a pair of snap-in-place hub bearings that centrally support the label reel within the cassette . As shown in further detail with respect to the embodiment depicted in Figure 3, cassette 60 is formed from a unitary piece of injection-molded plastic according to one construction. For example , cassette 60 can be molded from a copolymer of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) . Various alternative constructions are also possible, including the use of fiber-enforced plastics, metal, or other suitable materials. Even further, cassette 60 can be constructed from a multiple piece assembly that is held together by fasteners or welds. Cassette 60 is constructed to have opposed sidewalls 88 and 90, each having a substantially semi-circular configuration and being joined together by an end wall 92. Side walls 88 and 90 are spaced apart sufficiently to provide for insertion/removal and rotation of reel 42 therebetween. A delivery aperture 84 is provided along a bottom portion of end wall 92 to enable passage υf carrier 46/labels 44 from reel 42 to a print head assembly 64 on a main plate 62. Typically, a new reel 42 is dropped into cassette 60 with a short section of carrier 46 exiting through aperture 84. The short section of carrier 46 is then pulled to draw, or unwind, an additional length of material, after which carrier 46 is fed through print head assembly 64, around peel plate assembly 66 and through drive wheel assembly 68.

In order to support a label reel 42 for rotation within carrier 60, an array of rollers 70(a,b) , 71(a,b) , and 72(a,b) are provided within a bottom portion of a receiving trench 86 of cassette 60. Reel 42 is received within trench 86, atop at least one pair of rollers 70-72, as shown in Figure 3. A first pair of rollers 70(a,b) are situated elevationally above rollers 71(a,b) and 72(a,b) and are spaced further apart than the remaining two pairs of rollers 71(a,b) and 72(a,b). When a new label reel 42 having a maximum allowable outer diameter for fitting into cassette 60 is inserted within trench 86, reel 42 is supported by rollers 70(a,b) for rotation therebetween. Rollers 71(a,b) are situated below rollers 70(a,b) but above rollers 72(a,b) and are spaced apart in slightly closer proximity than rollers 70(a,b) such that when label reel 42 decreases in diameter sufficiently as a consequence of delivery of labels therefrom, rollers 71(a,b) will support reel 42 once the maximum outer diameter of reel 42 reaches a sufficiently small diameter. Furthermore , rollers 72(a,b) are presented below rollers 70(a,b) and 71(a,b), and are further spaced apart in closer proximity than rollers 70(a,b) and 71(a,b) such that rollers 72(a,b) support reel 42 only when it has reached a sufficiently small diameter to drop below rollers 70(a,b) and 71(a,b) . Additionally, rollers 72(a,b) each serve to guide an exiting end of carrier 46/labels 44 through a delivery aperture 84 of cassette 60.

As shown in Figure 3, each of rollers 70-72(a,b) includes a contact, or roller, cylinder 74 and a stationary support pin 76. Pin 76 is supported at each end by a mounting aperture 80 and a support bushing 78, respectively. Mounting aperture 80 is formed within a first sidewall 88 of cassette 60 and bushing 78 is mounted to a second, opposite sidewall 90 of cassette 60. Bushing 78 is press fit into a complementary mounting aperture 82 formed within sidewall 90 of cassette 60, opposite aperture 80. Following insertion of bushing 78 and aligned insertion of cylinder 74, pin 76 is press fit through bushing 78 and into aperture 80 until a leading end of pin 76 is substantially flush with an outer surface of sidewall 88. Cylinder 74 is sized in length so as to rotate freely within cassette 60 where it is trapped by pin 76. Similarly, cylinder 74 has an inner diameter sized slightly larger than the outer diameter of pin 76 in order to facilitate free , supported rotation of cylinder 74 about pin 76. According to one construction, pin 76 comprises a brass pin and cylinder 74 comprises a

Delrin cylindrical roller body.

Yet even another improvement is provided by print and apply label features of this invention as shown in Figure 4. For the case where apple variety and specific PLU numbers cannot be selectively printed onto labels, it is necessary to inventory as many as 60 different print reels, each having a specific combination of apple variety and PLU number printed on the associated labels. Each time a different combination of apple variety and PLU number is being sorted and printed, the label reel has to be changed by inserting the appropriate label reel from a storage inventory of associated reels. By being able to print and apply such label information, it is possible to eliminate such a large inventory of dedicated label reels. Hence , even greater amounts of specific information can be imparted to a label without requiring an increase in the number of label reels that need to be inventoried for an article sorting and labelling operation.

More particularly, batches of labels 44 can be retrieved from reel 42 and printed with specific information by a print head assembly 64 before being applied to an article via peel plate assembly 66. Print head assembly 64 is operative to selectively print desired graphical/textual information on each of labels 44 as they pass there through. Carrier 46, which releasably supports labels 44, is unwound from reel 42 by a delivery motor (not shown) and feed roller 142 contained within print head assembly 64. Feed roller 142 is driven in rotation by the delivery motor. Drive wheel assembly 68 also assists in unwinding reel 42 by applying further tension to carrier 46, downstream of peel plate assembly 66. Carrier 46 and labels 44 enter print head assembly 64 via an entrance aperture 94 for printing onto labels 44. Carrier 46 and labels 44 exit print head assembly 64 through an exit aperture 95 and are delivered to a peel plate assembly 66 for application to articles 24 via a peel plate in-feed idler roller 128.

According to one implementation, print head assembly 64 comprises a thermographic printer having a thermal print head as shown in Figure 4. One such thermographic printer is presently sold commercially as a print mechanism in several versions designated "CL Series" by Axiohm, of Puiseaux, France . However, such a printer is wider than what is necessary to print apple labels and a narrower version of this printer, having essentially the same construction, is presently being planned to reduce weight and packaging space . Such a printer includes an electric drive motor (not shown) having a feed roller 142 for driving carrier 46 and labels 44 through assembly 64. Additionally, such drive motor is used to drive a drive wheel assembly 68 via a drive belt 100 and associated inter-engaging, toothed end wheels 96 and 98 as shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 further illustrates the construction of such a carrier/label feed drive mechanism.

Print head assembly 64 is configured such that feed roller 142 is positioned in close , abutting engagement with a thermal print head 143. Carrier

46 and labels 44 are driven for movement against thermal print head 143 via rotation of feed roller 142 by way of the associated electric drive motor. Thermal print head 143 comprises a heater mechanism in the form of heatable dots configured in an array of 200 dots per inch . Positioning of a label against the thermal print head 143 enables printing of material onto the label via application of heat to each individual dot in an array that defines a desired textual/graphical pattern. The print mechanism of assembly 64, which contains feed roller 142 and print head 143, also includes a label detector, in one form an electronic, optical eye, for carefully positioning labels against thermal print head 143. Accordingly, the delivery of carrier 46 and labels 44 can be indexed to properly position labels 44 against thermal print head 143 in order to deliver printed textual/graphical material onto label 44 accordingly. Hence , feed roller 142 is driven responsive to the indicated position of labels 44 by way of the electronic eye . It is to be understood that various other constructions can be utilized for print head assembly 64. For example , print head assembly 64 can be formed from an ink jet printer, a dot matrix printer, a laser printer, a daisy-wheel printer, or any machine capable of producing images on paper or film. Print head assembly 64 also contains a programmable logic controller

(PLC) having an erasable EPROM operative to contain print commands that define print information for delivering textual/graphical materials to labels 44. Additionally, or alternatively, a separate printed circuit board containing dedicated memory control chips can be utilized for delivering such print control commands to thermal print head 143 and feed roller 142. Print control commands and delivery commands for driving roller 142 and drive wheel assembly 68 are delivered via a flex cable 65 and connector 73 , comprising a serial port . Flex cable 65 comprises a communication line for delivering print control commands. Optionally, dip switches can be provided in association with memory and a controller for selectively configuring one of a plurality of print control commands.

As shown in Figure 4, flexible cable 65 exits print head assembly 64 where it terminates at male connector 73. Male connector 73 is securely carried along a leading edge of main plate 62 where it is secured by fasteners. A complementary female connector 75 is supported on frame 38 such that drop-in loading of label transfer mechanism 40 into frame 38 properly positions electrical connectors 73 and 75 for coupling as mechanism 40 is loaded into frame 38. Similarly, removal of mechanism 40 from frame 38 will decouple connectors 73 and 75. Connector 75 connects via a separate flex cable (not shown) supported along frame 38 and carried to a central host computer (not shown) . Such a central host computer provides capabilities for a centrally located operator to load/download print commands for configuring each of label transfer mechanisms 40 to print selected, designated, graphical/textual material on each of labels 44 during a labeling operation.

Optionally, each bank of automated labelling machine assemblies 20 (see Fig. 1) can be provided with a programmable board having a dedicated processor for controlling the individual label transfer mechanisms 40 on each assembly 20. According to this alternative construction, the labellers of each labeller assembly are totally self-contained, enabling an operator at an accompanying station adjacent an assembly to selectively configure the proper PLU number and apple variety for labels being applied at that assembly. According to such a construction, a graphical user interface comprising a screen and a keypad (along with a PC board and circuits) can be provided for enabling an operator to reconfigure the assembly.

Print head assembly 64 is securely mounted to main plate 62, with a drive shaft 93 of print head assembly 64 exiting through plate 62 via a clearance hole (not shown) for fixed connection to geared end wheel 96. End wheel 98 is fixedly secured onto shaft 93 for rotation. Web feed drive roller 102 is similarly fixedly secured to drive shaft 97 at an opposite end that extends through a clearance hole 115 through plate 62. A drive motor of print head assembly 64 is operatively coupled via a reduction gear to drive carrier 46 and labels 44 via roller 124 through assembly 64. The drive motor is further operatively coupled via belt 100 to drive carrier 46 via roller 102 of drive wheel assembly 68 at a location downstream of peel plate assembly 66. Carrier 46 is driven at both an upstream and a downstream location of peel plate assembly 66 in order to apply positive tension to carrier 46 as it travels through peel plate assembly 66. Positive tension on carrier 46 as it travels through peel plate assembly 66 tends to bias the peel plate assembly 66 into a downwardly extending position, limited only by engagement of peel plate assembly 66 against stop pin 117 as will be described in further detail below.

When implemented as a thermographic printer, print head assembly 64 is operative to apply desired information onto labels 44 based upon print data that is downloaded to print head assembly 64 via flex cable 65 prior to initiation of a labelling operation. Optionally, individual label transfer mechanisms 40 can be removed from frame 38 after which an input/output (I/O) port on print head assembly 64 is coupled via connector 73 to a control computer containing formatting information for configuring print jobs. One such selective print job comprises print information for apple variety and for specific PLU numbers that indicate the various grades and types of apples being sorted and labelled. For the case where each tray contains pre-sorted apples, each apple will receive a label containing identical print information. Optionally, each row can receive labels containing different print information merely be configuring each label transfer mechanism to apply different print information via print head assembly 64.

Furthermore, specific custom print information can be incorporated into a label such as the name of a producer, or seller of product, a processing date , or even advertising information. Such information is printed via commands received by a host computer via an operator. Another improvement implemented on the device of this invention is directed to the manner by which cassette 60 is removably mounted atop main plate 62 of label transfer mechanism 40. More particularly, Figure 5 illustrates cassette 60 being demated from a top end 160 of main plate 62. In contrast, Figure 1 illustrates cassette 60 mated to main plate 62. As shown in Figure 5, a mounting receiver 150 is integrally molded to side wall 88 of cassette 60. Optionally, receiver 150 can be formed as a separate piece of material with fasteners being received through apertures provided in spaced-apart locations in the flanges of the receiver for enabling mounting of the receiver to the cassette 60. According to one optional construction, the fasteners comprise rivets. According to other optional constructions, the fasteners comprise screws, bolts, or threaded fasteners.

Mounting receiver 150 forms a slotted aperture 158 that is sized to receive top end 160 of main plate 62 in complementary mating engagement for assembly of cassette 60 to plate 62, as shown in Figure 5. Hence , cassette 60 can be easily and quickly mated/demated with/from main plate 62 when performing maintenance, repair, cleaning or reloading of label reels. Even further, a number of different sized cassettes 60 can be used with the same main plate 62 in order to accommodate label reels having widely varying diameters or widths. An alternative construction for cassette 60 is disclosed below with reference to Figures 7 and 8.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, carrier 46 is driven for delivery both upstream and downstream of peel plate assembly 66. Drive roller 102 is driven to produce slightly greater carrier delivery than printer feed roller 142 (see Figure 4). As a result, tension is applied to carrier 46 so as to bias peel plate 68 into a downwardly extending position, engaging against stop pin 117. Additionally, peel plate assembly 66 tends to suspend downwardly from pivot pin 114 in response to gravitational pull. It is desired to downwardly suspend peel plate assembly 66 to a location such that roller 124 is positioned to contact articles 24 as they pass beneath label transfer mechanism 40. The position of peel plate assembly 66 can be adjusted by adjusting the relative positions of drive wheel assembly 68 and idler roller 128 on main plate 62 with respect to peel plate assembly 66 so as to vary the angles of approach along carrier sections 144 and 146. Gravitational pull on peel plate assembly 66 combines with delivery tension along carrier sections 144 and 146 to create a balanced set of forces acting on peel plate assembly 66. Hence, the steady-state operating position of peel plate assembly 66 can be adjusted to present roller 124 at a desired height by changing the carrier angles and loads applied to peel plate assembly 66.

Peel plate assembly 66 comprises a peel plate member 67 formed from a unitary piece of plastic material having a pair of substantially parallel and opposed side walls 116 and 118 extending on either side of a central delivery slot 119. According to one construction, peel plate member 67 is formed from

TM a piece of Teflon material. According to another construction, peel plate

TM member 67 is formed from a piece of Delrin material. Slot 119 extends longitudinally of peel plate assembly 66 and is sized in width sufficiently to guide

TM carrier 46 beneath a Teflon delivery roller 120 to a delivery edge 121 formed immediately before and adjacent to silicon application roller 124. Roller 120 is positioned to provide a 10-15/1 ,000ths of an inch gap with the bottom of slot 119 for receiving labels 44 and carrier 46 in close proximity with the bottom of slot 119 and adjacent delivery edge 121 which prevents lifting of carrier 46 before bending over delivery edge 121. Such a configuration has been found to enhance label delivery via application roller 124 to articles, resulting in carrier 46 naturally bending downstream of delivery edge 121. Silicon application roller 124 comprises a resilient silicon material that applies pressure to a label 44 during delivery to an article 24, ensuring positive application. Roller 120 and edge 121 are located sufficiently adjacent to roller 124 to allow passage of carrier 46 and labels 44 adjacent to roller 124 without lifting from peel plate assembly 66 such that carrier 46 turns over edge 121 , causing labels 44 adhered thereon to separate from carrier 46. Separated labels 44 are then applied to an article as they pass under roller 124 which rotatably and compressively operates to press the separated label 44 onto the article .

As shown in Figure 3, peel plate assembly 66 is pivotally carried by main plate 62 via a pivot pin 114 which contains a retaining head and a threaded end

TM that mates in assembly with a threaded aperture 140 of plate 62. Teflon delivery roller 120 is rotatably supported between side walls 1 16 and 118 of peel plate member 67 via a press fit pin 122. Similarly, silicon application roller 124 is rotatably supported between side walls 116 and 118 via a press fit pin 126. Stop pin 117 is press fit into hole 115 of main plate 62 at a location desirable to limit downward pivoting of peel plate assembly 66 such that a bottom edge of peel plate assembly 66 engages pin 117 to limit downward motion, or rotation. Peel plate in-feed idler roller 128 is rotatably mounted to main plate 62 via a threaded shoulder fastener 129. Fastener 129 is received through roller 128 and into a complementarily threaded aperture 138 to rotatably support roller 128 adjacent to plate 62. Roller 128 includes a radial outer surface having an indented central portion 131 sized to receive and guide carrier 46 and labels 44 into slot 119 of peel plate member 67. Roller 128 is mounted sufficiently proximate the pivoting end of peel plate member 67 to ensure delivery of carrier 46 and labels 44 into slot 119. Optionally, roller 128 and peel plate assembly 66 can be mounted on press fit pins.

As shown in Figures 3 and 6, drive wheel assembly 68 is carried on main plate 62, below print head assembly 64 and adjacent to peel plate assembly 66. More particularly, drive wheel assembly 68 includes web feed drive roller 102 and web feed follower roller 104 which are mounted together for rotation so as to counter-rotate on opposite sides of carrier 46 as it passes therebetween. According to one construction, drive roller 102 is formed from a hard plastic material such as Delrin having a smooth outer diameter. Follower roller 104 is formed from a grippy, resilient material such as silicon rubber. Alternatively, a plurality of radially spaced apart and outwardly extending drive pins can be carried on an outer diameter of roller 102. Such pins would be sized so as to interdigitate with corresponding holes formed within carrier 46. Such pins and holes would ensure indexed precise delivery of labels 44 on carrier 46 via peel plate assembly 66 by precise rotation of drive roller 102, eliminating the need for a precise electronic eye within print head assembly 64. With such an alternative construction, follower roller 104 would have circumferential grooves along the outer surface positioned to receive the pins during co-rotation with driver roller 102.

Rollers 102 and 104 are carried for precise, guided rotation alongside main plate 62 via a mounting bracket 100 as shown in Figures 3 and 6. To ensure that rollers 102 and 104 rotate freely without introducing excessive lateral motion of rollers 102 and 104, carefully sized spacer tubes 112 are placed between each end of mounting bracket 110 and main plate 62. A threaded fastener 106 is received through bracket 110 at each end, into one of tubes 108 and into a threaded bore 130 and 132, respectively, at each end of plate 62. Rollers 102 and 140 each contain a press-fit, central bronze bushing 103 and 105, respectively. Rollers 102 and 104 are mounted for rotation about a pin 108 that is carried by bracket 110 and main plate 62 at each end. Roller 102 is press-fit onto pin 109, with pin 109 being further press-fit into gear 98 such that gear 98, pin 109, and roller 102 are secured together for rotation. In contrast, roller 104 is carried on pin 108 for free rotation, with pin 108 being press-fit into bracket 110 and plate 62.

As shown in Figure 6, threaded fasteners 106 are each received within one of recessed apertures 162 and 164 in bracket 110, through spacer 112, and into threaded bores 132 and 130 of plate 62, respectively. Spacers 112 are received into slight recesses in plate 62 and bracket 110 to facilitate accurate assembly. Likewise, pin 108 is press-fit into aperture 166 in bracket 110, extends through a clearance hole in roller 104, and into press-fit bore 136 of plate 62. Hence, pin 108 remains stationary, with roller 104 rotating freely about pin 108, but secured against axial movement by interfitting with a central recessed portion of drive roller 102. In contrast, pin 109 is fitted through a clearance hold 168 and 134 formed within bracket 110 and plate 62, respectively. Roller 102 and gear 98 are each press-fit onto pin 109, trapping gear 98, pin 109, and roller 102 for rotation via apertures 134 and 168. In assembly, rollers 102 and 104 are sized and positioned such that carrier 46 is snugly and securely received therebetween, a slight degree of compression being applied to roller 104 to ensure positive feeding of carrier 46 between rollers 102 and 104. Optionally, pin 108 can be threaded at one or more end and mated with complementary threads in at least one of bracket 110 and plate 62.

Optionally, a Belleville washer (not shown) can be provided between gear 98 and main plate 62, as shown in Figure 6. Pin 109 would be modified so as to form a head, and gear 98 would be sized with an aperture sufficiently large to provide relative rotation between gear 98 and pin 109. The Belleville washer would cause frictional engagement between gear 98 and pin 109, but allow for frictionable slippage when needed. In assembly, the Belleville washer frictionally engages gear 98 with the head of pin 109, causing them to rotate together. In this implementation, gear 98 is driven to produce a higher linear feed rate of carrier 46 than is feed roller 142 (see Fig. 4). The Belleville washer would enable slippage to occur between gear 98 and pin 109 when carrier 46 is placed under sufficient tension as a result of the greater linear feed rate imparted by roller 102 downstream of feed roller 142 (see Fig. 4).

In operation, drive roller 102 accurately meters delivery of carrier 46 through peel plate assembly 66, accurately delivering labels 44 intermittently to articles 24 as shown in Figure 4. The electronic eye of print head assembly 64 provides for accurate, indexed and intermittent delivery of labels 44 to each article 24 (see Fig. 4). Carrier section 148 exits drive wheel assembly 68 where it is collected via the vacuum waste collection apparatus 48 described previously with reference to Figures 1 and 2. After leaving feed reel 42, but prior to being applied to articles 24 by peel plate assembly 66, print head assembly 64 prints label information onto labels 44, with a reed roller 142 further delivering carrier 46 and labels 44 through assembly 64.

Referring to Figure 3, an additional feature provided by label transfer mechanism 40 is a micro switch (not shown) carried by plate 62 and positioned to detect upward movement of peel plate assembly 66 during application of a label to an article . In this manner, subsequent to delivery of a label to an article, the motor within print head assembly 64 receives a delivery signal indicating the need to advance carrier 46 an indexed distance to provide presentation of a next, subsequent label 44 for delivery to a subsequent article . Optionally, or alternatively, an optical eye can be utilized in conjunction with label transfer mechanism 40 configured to detect the location and presence of an article to be labelled immediately adjacent to roller 124. Contact with roller 124 will initiate application of a label, followed by indexing and movement of carrier 46 to a next location for presentment of a subsequent label 44 to a subsequent article . Figure 7 illustrates an alternatively constructed removable cassette 260 which can be substituted for cassette 60 on label transfer mechanism 40 of Figures 1-5. More particularly, cassette 260 is formed from an integrally- formed piece of injection-molded plastic material similar to that used in forming cassette 60. However, a pair of apertures 166 and 168 are provided in opposite sides of the cassette for receiving plastic bearings 176 and 178, respectively, that are snapped into place within the respective apertures. Each of bearings 176 and 178 includes a bearing disc 180 formed as a raised surface defined by a circumferential beveled edge 182 which extends from a central, cylindrical body 184. When snapped into place in cassette 260, bearings 176 and 178 present bearing discs 180 in opposed, axially aligned relation such that a label reel 42 can be dropped into trench 186 such that the label reel will urge apart bearings 176 and 178 by flexing the mouth-shaped opening to cassette 260 until central hub, or opening, 43 on reel 42 snaps into position between opposite bearing discs 180, as shown in Figure 8. In order to impart an appropriate deformable stiffness to cassette 260 such that bearings 176 and 178 will be urged apart during insertion of a label reel yet a label reel will be supported when loaded, an enforcing rib 174 is integrally molded about the entire circumferential throat defining the opening to trench 186 as shown in Figure 7. Additional enforcing ribs 194-197 and associated raised enforcing boss 170 cooperate to stiffen cassette 60, as shown in Figure 7. Additional enforcing ribs are provided on the opposite side of cassette 260 as shown in Figure 8, including enforcing rib 198 and enforcing boss 172. Such integrally molded ribs are constructed and arranged to impart an appropriate stiffness between opposite sides of cassette 260 such that loading and unloading of a reel from between bearings 176 and 178 is made possible. A user loads a label reel by pressing it into trench 186 which urges apart the opposed faces and bearings 176 and 178 such that each bearing disc 180 will cooperate in loading the label reel supported therebetween.

As shown in Figures 7 and 8, cassette 260 is integrally molded to include a pair of cylindrical recesses 167 and 169, arranged co-axially about apertures 166 and 168, respectively, and within trench 186. Cylindrical recesses 167 and 169 are sized to receive a portion of cylindrical body 184 on each of bearings 176 and 178. Additionally, a pair of semi-circular clasps 188 and 190 extend rearwardly of each cylindrical body 184 and are configured to be snapped into position within one of apertures 166 and 168. Clasps 188 and 190 are separated by a pair of slits 192, facilitating urging together of clasps 188 and 190 along an edge opposite bearing disc 180.

As shown in Figure 8, clasps 188 and 190 comprise a partial cylindrical surface terminating at an outer end portion to form an enlarged clip end 200. Clip end 200 is formed to have a beveled leading end sized to facilitate insertion within apertures 166 and 168. Clip end 200 is formed at the outer portion of a semi-cylindrical wall portion 202 that is sized to have an axial length corresponding with the length of apertures 166 and 168. Clip end 200 is configured to have a rear face opposite the beveled leading edge that extends substantially perpendicular from each of wall portions 202 for abutting with bosses 170 and 172 when snapped into place. Bearings 176 and 178 can be removed from apertures 166 and 168, respectively, by urging together class 188 and 190 such that clip ends 200 are moved radially inwardly so as to facilitate removal of clasps 188 and 190 from apertures 166 and 168.

As shown in Figure 8, beveled edge 182 on bearing disc 180 is configured such that forcible hand-insertion of label reel 42 will forcibly bias apart bearings 176 and 178, along with the adjacent wall portions of cassette 260, such that trench 186 opens up sufficiently to facilitate insertion/removal of the label reel 42 therein. Upon the clearance of bearing discs 180 within the central opening, or hub, 43 of reel 42, bearing discs 180 move inwardly together such that beveled edges 182 of bearing 176 and 178 cooperate to form a rotatable bearing surface for reel 42.

It is further understood that construction of cassette 260 depicted in Figures 7 and 8 is such that cassette 260 can be readily removably mated and demated with plate 62. Accordingly, a mounting bracket 250 is integrally molded into cassette 260, similar to that utilized in the embodiment depicted in Figures 1-5.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A labelling machine for placing labels onto rows of tray-supported articles carried by a conveyor, comprising: a label transfer mechanism having an applicator positioned to apply a label to an article that is brought into communication with the applicator; and a support configured to removably carry the label transfer mechanism.

2. The labelling machine of claim 1 wherein the label transfer mechanism comprises a plurality of label transfer mechanisms carried by the support and operative to apply labels to articles arranged in dedicated rows within a tray.

3. The labelling machine of claim 1 wherein the label transfer mechanism comprises a print head operative to print textual and/or graphical information onto labels being applied by the label transfer mechanism.

4. The labelling machine of claim 3 wherein the print head comprises a thermal print head, the label transfer mechanism configured to print and apply labels to articles brought into communication with the applicator.

5. The labelling machine of claim 1 wherein the applicator comprises a peel plate.

6. The labelling machine of claim 1 wherein the label transfer mechanism comprises a cassette configured to receive a label reel and constructed and arranged to be mated and demated from a main plate of the labelling machine .

7. The labelling machine of claim 1 wherein the labels are delivered from a carrier web, the labelling machine further comprising a vacuum waste collection apparatus configured to collect the carrier following application of labels therefrom.

8. The labelling machine of claim 1 wherein the label transfer mechanism further comprises a print head assembly, a peel plate, and a drive wheel assembly, the peel plate providing the applicator, the print head assembly provided upstream of the peel plate, and the drive wheel assembly provided downstream of the peel plate.

9. The labelling machine of claim 8 wherein the print head assembly comprises a feed roller operatively coupled with a drive motor and a thermal print head.

10. A labelling machine, comprising: a label transfer mechanism having an applicator positioned to apply a label to an article delivered in association with the applicator; a support frame configured to carry the label transfer mechanism such that the applicator is positioned to deliver labels to articles delivered thereby; and a print head provided in association with the label transfer mechanism and operative to print information on labels prior to transfer via the applicator to an article.

11. The labelling machine of claim 10 wherein the support frame is configured to removably carry a plurality of individual label transfer mechanisms in adjacent side-by-side relation.

12. The labelling machine of claim 10 wherein the print head comprises a thermal print head.

13. The labelling machine of claim 12 wherein the thermal print head is supported within a print head assembly of the label transfer mechanism, the print head assembly further comprising a feed roller operatively driven by a drive motor for delivering carrier-supported labels in incremental, indexed delivery to articles delivered in association with the applicator.

14. The labelling machine of claim 10 wherein the applicator comprises a peel plate, the label transfer mechanism further comprising a cassette configured to receive a label reel comprising a carrier onto which a plurality of spaced-apart labels are supported for delivery.

15. The labelling machine of claim 10 wherein the label transfer mechanism further comprises a drive wheel assembly configured to deliver labels from a delivery carrier of a label reel to the applicator.

16. The labelling machine of claim 10 further comprising a detector configured to index the positioning of labels being delivered by applicator to articles.

17. The labelling machine of claim 16 wherein the detector comprises an electronic optical detector configured to detect labels supported for delivery on a carrier.

18. A labelling machine, comprising: a cassette having a pocket for receiving a label reel and at least one pair of rollers carried by the cassette within the pocket and operative to rotatably support the label reel for delivery of labels therefrom.

19. The labelling machine of claim 18 further comprising a support frame, a label transfer mechanism carried by the support frame, and a receiver provided by the cassette and configured to removably mate/demate the cassette with the label transfer mechanism.

20. The labelling machine of claim 19 wherein the label transfer mechanism is removably carried by the support frame.

21. The labelling machine of claim 18 wherein the cassette comprises at least two pairs of rollers, a first pair of rollers being further spaced apart and above a second pair of rollers, the first pair of rollers and the second pair of rollers being sized and positioned so as to cooperatively support a label reel having a varying diameter as labels are delivered therefrom.

22. The labelling machine of claim 18 wherein the at least one pair of rollers support a label reel within the cassette along a radial outer diameter.

23. The labelling machine of claim 18 wherein the cassette is configured to support a cylindrical label reel along a radial outer surface, such label reel comprising a spindle-less label reel configuration.

24. The labelling machine of claim 18 further comprising a print head provided in association with an applicator, the print head operative to print textual and/or graphical information onto labels being delivered from the label reel to the applicator where they are delivered to articles in association therewith.

25. A labelling machine, comprising: a support frame; a label transfer mechanism carried by the support frame having a peel plate rotatably carried and positionable to apply a label rom a label carrier to an article presented adjacent the peel plate, a guide roller provided in association with the peel plate upstream of an application roller; and a feed roller provided in association with the label transfer mechanism downstream of the application roller; the peel plate, feed roller and guide roller being constructed and arranged such that delivery tension produced by the feed roller on the label carrier downwardly biases the peel plate and application roller for presentment of a label to an article being labelled there against.

26. The labelling machine of claim 25 wherein the label transfer mechanism further comprises a stop pin supported by the label transfer mechanism and positioned to limit downward biasing of the peel plate and application roller.

27. The labelling machine of claim 26 further comprising a print head provided in association with the label transfer mechanism and operative to print textual and/or graphical information onto labels on the label carrier upstream of the application roller.

28. The labelling machine of claim 27 further comprising a communication line operatively coupled with the print head for transferring print commands to the print head.

29. The labelling machine of claim 28 wherein the print head further comprises a print head assembly including a feed roller, a thermal print head provided in association with the feed roller, and a programmable logic controller operatively associated with the thermal print head and feed roller, the communication line operatively coupled with the programmable logic controller to direct operation of the feed roller and the thermal print head during a print and apply operation to labels.

30. The labelling machine of claim 26 further comprising a feed roller provided in association with a print head upstream of the peel plate for delivering carrier-supported labels for printing prior to application to articles via the applicator roller.