Patent ID: 7011728
Filing Date: 2006-03-14
Classification: B41F,B41J,B65C,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for applying a label to an object such as a container or cup, the apparatus comprising a printer, a label applicator coupled to the printer, a holder configured to engage the object and move the object relative to the printer and the label applicator, the label applicator configured to apply a label to a surface of the object when the object is disposed near the label applicator, and the printer configured to print an image on the same surface of the object when the object is disposed near the printer, a control system coupling the printer and the label applicator to coordinate the printing of the object such that the label is in a predetermined position relative to the printed image, wherein the control system includes a programmable limit switch coupled to the printer, the programmable limit switch being configured to provide output signals determining the position of the object relative to the printer, and wherein the control system further includes an actuator coupled to the label applicator and coupled to the programmable limit switch, the actuator being configured to control the label applicator in response to the output signals from the programmable limit switch.