Patent ID: 8360124
Filing Date: 2013-01-29
Classification: B29C,Y10T

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for use in an in-mold labeling process, comprising: a servo-driven label stock roll comprising a continuous rolled label sheet having a multiplicity of non-adhesive labels pre-printed thereon and having a registration mark associated with each of said labels also pre-printed thereon; an active float roll for receiving a free end of said label sheet unwound from said label stock roll, said first active float roll being operative for maintaining a constant tension in said label sheet as it is being unwound from said label stock roll and for providing feedback for controlling the rate at said label sheet is unwound from said label stock roll; a plurality of idler rolls positioned downstream from said active float roll for defining a path of said label sheet as it is being unwound from said label stock roll; a first sensor positioned in the path of said label sheet for detecting a distinguishing feature on said label sheet to thereby enable lateral justification thereof; a second sensor positioned in the path of said label sheet for detecting each of said registration marks pre-printed on said label sheet to enable alignment of said label sheet in a predetermined longitudinal position of registration with respect to said second sensor; a set of servo-driven pinch rolls positioned in the path of said label sheet for clamping the free end of said label sheet therebetween and for moving said label sheet in a selected direction; a servo-driven circumferential die cutter positioned to receive the free end of said label sheet from said pinch rolls, said die cutter being operative for cutting one or more of said labels from said label sheet; a passive float roll positioned downstream from said die cutter for receiving the free end of said label sheet thereunder, said passive float roll being subjected to a downward force sufficient to create a controlled loop in said label sheet for maintaining a desired tension therein as it exits said die cutter; a servo-driven vacuum conveyor positioned horizontally to receive said label sheet from said passive float roll for conveyance along said vacuum conveyor, said controlled loop in said label sheet permitting operation of said vacuum conveyor independently of said die cutter; a third sensor positioned adjacent to said vacuum conveyor, said third sensor being operative for detecting each of said registration marks pre-printed on said label sheet for enabling alignment of said label sheet in a predetermined longitudinal position of registration on said vacuum conveyor with respect to said third sensor; and a plurality of vacuum plenums provided along said vacuum conveyor, a hold-down vacuum being selectively applied to said vacuum plenums from an external source for maintaining said label sheet in said position of registration on said vacuum conveyor during conveyance thereof to a predetermined label removal position, said hold-down vacuum then being released to permit removal, by an external pick and place device, of one or more of said labels previously cut by said die cutter.