Decoration apparatus for decorating a web of labeling material and method of decorating a web of label material

The invention discloses a decoration apparatus for decorating a web of labeling material. The decoration apparatus comprises conveyor for advancing the web of labeling material between a first station and a second station, an activation unit adapted to apply an activation energy at a activation station for selectively activating activatable pigments comprised in the web of labeling material or to locally ablate the web of labeling material and a temperature-conditioning unit which is adapted to actively cool and/or heat the web of labeling material, in particular, in use, prior, during and/or after selectively activating the activatable pigments or ablating the web of labeling material.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a decoration apparatus for decorating a web of labeling material, in particular a web of labeling material comprising photoactivatable pigments.

The present invention also relates to a method of decorating a web of labeling material, in particular a web of labeling material comprising photoactivatable pigments.

BACKGROUND

It is known to pack products into respective packages and to apply information onto the packages for providing the final consumer with differing information and visual images, such as e.g. the packaged product, the brand of the product, the ingredients of the product etc.

An example is the packaging of pourable products such as carbonated liquids (e.g. sparkling water, soft drinks and beer), non-carbonated liquids (e.g. still water, juices, teas, sport drinks, liquid cleaners, wine, etc.), emulsions, suspensions, high viscosity liquids and beverages containing pulps into receptacles such as bottles, containers or the like.

A typical mean of providing the information on these receptacles is to provide at least one respective label onto each one of the receptacles. In the art, different kinds of means of labeling are known.

One typical label type is the so called “self-stick label”, which is directly wrapped around at least part of the respective receptacle and glued thereto. The application of this kind of label typically relies on advancing a web of labeling material towards a cutting station at which the single labels are obtained from the web of labeling material by cutting the web of labeling material at the cutting station. These labels are often also referred to as roll-fed-labels.

Another typical label type, used with a particular kind of receptacles, namely, beverage bottles or vessels, is the label commonly known as “sleeve label”, which is formed in a tubular configuration and then applied onto the respective article. Finally, a heat shrinking operation is carried out to make the labels adhere onto the respective receptacles.

A further typical label type, are the “pressure-sensitive labels” (PLS), which are removably attached on a base web and which are detached from the base web prior to being applied onto the respective receptacles.

In the recent years, the desire and need to personalize the information and the visual imagines provided on the receptacles containing e.g. the pourable product has grown. This is in particular due to the need to offer to the final costumer more and more possibilities to personalize the final appearance of the receptacle, such as e.g. comprising a particular image or a particular photography or a particular written message, but also as a consequence of the requirement to increase traceability of the overall production process associated to a particular pourable product filed into respective receptacles.

A printing apparatus adapted to provide personalized information on receptacles filled with a pourable product is e.g. known from WO-A-2010034375.

The apparatus comprises a conveyor for advancing a succession of receptacles along a receptacle path and a plurality of printing units arranged one after the other along the receptacle path. Each printing unit is adapted to apply an ink of a defined color directly onto the receptacle or onto a label attached to the receptacle.

However, such an apparatus requires a rather complicated structure and occupies a significant amount of space within a production hall. It comes along with the further drawback, which lies in the use of the ink. Ink directly applied onto the receptacles may diffuse with time through the receptacles into the pourable product, which is particularly critical in the case of pourable food products. Additionally, such an apparatus is rather expensive.

Another apparatus, which provides for a personalization of the information and/or the visual image provided on the receptacles is known from DE-U-202013105749.

The apparatus comprises conveying means for advancing a web of labeling material along an advancement path from a magazine unit towards a labeling station at which the single label sheets (being of the “pressure-sensitive” label type or of the “stick label” type) are attached onto receptacles advancing along a receptacle path through the labeling station. The web of labeling material comprises at least one layer, which contains photoactivatable pigments being in a deactivated state.

The apparatus further comprises an activation unit having a plurality of laser assemblies. The activation unit being arranged upstream from the labeling station. As the web of labeling material advances the laser assemblies are selectively activated in order to selectively activate the pigments, leading to a change in the color of the pigments. Each activation assembly substantially irradiates along an activation line transversal to the web of labeling material.

A drawback of this apparatus is that the extension of the activation line is limited and, thus, the area of the label, which can be activated by the laser irradiation is limited. This again restricts the additional information or the additional visual images, which can be provided on the respective labels of the web of labeling material prior to the attachment of the label sheets onto the receptacles.

A further drawback of such an apparatus is related to its relatively low processing speeds.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a decoration apparatus for a web of labeling material to overcome, in a straightforward and low-cost manner, at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide for a decoration method for decorating a web of labeling material to overcome, in a straightforward and low-cost manner, at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks.

According to the present invention, there is provided a decoration apparatus as claimed in claim1.

According to a further aspect of present invention there is provided a decoration method for decorating a web of labeling material.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Number1inFIG. 1shows as a whole a decoration apparatus according to the present invention. Apparatus1is adapted to decorate a web of labeling material2.

In the particular embodiment disclosed, web2is of the kind, which is to be cut in order to obtain single label sheets (i.e. in the particular embodiment disclosed, web2comprises a succession of single label sheets, which, in particular, are obtained by cutting web2along respective cutting lines of web2). However, it must be understood that the description will refer to this kind of web2without any limitative scope. It must be further understood, that the present invention can be executed also with any other kind of web of labeling material, such as e.g. a web of labeling material having a base layer and a plurality of label sheets removably attached to the base layer (commonly known as “pressure-sensitive labels”) or with a web of labeling material being of a heat-shrinkable material.

Web2can be of the pre-decorated type or can be blank. The pre-decorated type already comprises information and/or visual images pre-printed onto web2. In particular, in the case of a pre-decorated type, apparatus1is adapted to complete the decoration of web2.

In particular, web2extends into two dimensions, defined by a transversal direction T and the longitudinal direction D. Even more particular, direction T being perpendicular to direction D.

With particular reference toFIG. 2, web2comprises activatable pigments, in particular photoactivable pigments3. Preferably, web2comprises at least two layers4and5and at least layer5contains pigments3. Even more preferentially, each web2comprises more than one layer5containing pigments3.

Preferentially, pigments3provided in web2, in particular in layer5are in a deactivated state and are adapted to change from their respective deactivated state to at least one respective activated state upon the application of an activation energy, in particular an electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular by light irradiation (e.g. laser light irradiation).

Favorably, the change from the deactivated state to the activated state leads to a change in the color of pigments3. Preferentially, when being in the deactivated state pigments3are transparent or white. Upon activation pigments3can change their respective color (e.g. from transparent to black or white or from white to black). In particular, the color in the deactivated state and the color in the activated state being dependent on the specific molecular structure of the specific pigments3chosen.

Preferentially, the final color is defined by the total energy transferred to pigments3(e.g. allowing to obtain different gray shades or respective other color tonalities).

With particular reference toFIGS. 1, 3 and 4, apparatus1comprises:conveying means6for advancing web2between a first station7and a second station8, in particular along a longitudinal direction D of web2;an activation unit9adapted to apply an activation energy, in particular an electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular a light irradiation at a decoration station10for selectively activating pigments3present in web2, station10being arranged between stations7and8; anda temperature-conditioning unit14adapted to actively cool and/or heat web2, in particular to actively cool web2, and at least a portion of unit14being arranged between stations7and8, in particular in the area of station10.

Preferentially, apparatus1also comprises a control unit15adapted to control operation of apparatus1itself, in particular unit15being adapted to control at least conveying means6, unit9and unit14.

Preferably, apparatus1also comprises a first magazine unit16arranged in the area of station7being adapted to store and receive web2. Preferentially, apparatus1also comprises a second magazine unit17arranged in the area of station8being adapted to store and receive web2.

More specifically, each one of magazine units16and17is adapted to removably receive a respective reel18. The respective reel18being adapted to carry a wound-up web2and/or to receive a web2to be wound-up. In particular, each reel18being adapted to rotate around a respective rotation axis A, when being received in the respective magazine unit16.

Even more specifically, each one of magazine units16and17comprises a respective support base, in particular a respective support disc19adapted to rotate around a respective rotation axis B. Each magazine unit16and17also comprises a respective engagement element (not shown) coaxially attached to the respective support disc19and protruding from the respective support disc19.

In particular, each respective engagement element is adapted to engage with the respective reel18in such a manner to coaxially arrange the respective reel18with the respective support disc19.

More specifically, support structure23comprises a support plate24, in particular having a vertical orientation, at least partially carrying conveying means6and units9and14.

In particular, support plate24also carries units16and17. Even more particular, support plate24supports the respective support discs19. Even more particular, the respective support discs19being arranged such that axis B is transversal, in particular orthogonal to support plate24(i.e., the respective axes A of reels18are transversal, in particular orthogonal to support plate24when being coupled to the respective unit16or17).

Even more specifically, support structure23comprises a support frame25carrying support plate24. Preferably, support structure23also comprises a plurality of feed elements26connected to support frame25for placing apparatus1, in particular support structure23on a plant floor or other horizontal surfaces. In particular, support structure23also comprises a height and orientation-adjusting unit for regulating the height and orientation of apparatus1. In particular, the height and orientation-adjusting unit is associated to feed elements26, even more particular, for locally moving support structure23to or away from the plant floor or another horizontal surface onto which apparatus1, in particular support structure23is placed.

With particular reference toFIGS. 1, 3 and 4, conveying means6are adapted to advance web2back and forth between stations7and8. In particular, conveying means6are adapted to advance web2along a first advancement path P1from station7to station8, in particular for advancing web2from unit16to unit17. Preferentially, conveying means6are also adapted to advance web2along a second advancement path P2from station8to station7, in particular for advancing web2from unit17to unit16. In particular, paths P1and P2being parallel to one another, even more preferably paths P1and P2superpose one another.

In particular, station10being arranged downstream from station7and upstream from station8along path P1. Even more particular, station10being positioned downstream from station8and upstream from station7along path P2.

Conveying means6comprise a drive unit29adapted to drive advancement of web2between stations7and8, in particular to drive advancement along paths P1and P2.

In particular, drive unit29comprises at least a first drive assembly (not shown and known as such) arranged in the area of station7.

Drive unit29also comprises a second drive assembly30(partially shown inFIG. 7) arranged in the area of station8.

In particular, the first drive assembly and drive assembly30are adapted to cooperate with unit16and17, respectively. In particular, the first drive assembly and drive assembly30are adapted to drive rotation of the respective reel18around the respective axis A. Even more particular, the first drive assembly and the drive assembly30are adapted to drive rotation of the respective support disc19around axis B (i.e. the first drive assembly and drive assembly30are adapted to indirectly drive rotation of the respective reel18).

Preferably, the first drive assembly and drive assembly30are mounted to support plate24.

Conveying means6also comprise a plurality of rollers31interposed between stations7and8and each one having a respective rotation axis C. In particular, rollers31define at least partially paths P1and/or P2. Even more particular, in use, web2is spanned around rollers31between stations7and8, in particular between units16and17.

With particular reference toFIGS. 1 and 3 to 7, activation unit9comprises an activation device32adapted to apply the activation energy, in particular the electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular the light irradiation at station10to selectively activate pigments3contained in web2.

In more detail, activation device32comprises one or more laser assemblies33, each one adapted to selectively direct a laser irradiation onto web2, web2, in use, being advanced by conveying means6between stations7and8.

In particular, each laser assembly33is adapted to direct the laser irradiation along a respective activation line, in particular transversal to direction D, even more particular perpendicular to direction D. In other words, the respective activation line being transversal, in particular perpendicular to the, in use, advancing web2(i.e. each activation line is parallel to direction T).

In particular, each activation line extends between two respective outer positions. In the particular embodiment described, the distance between the two outer positions ranges from 10 mm to 40 mm, in particular from 20 mm to 30 mm, even more particular the distance between the two extreme outer positions is 25 mm. In use, as web2advances between stations7and8and the respective activation area is activated on web2as a consequence of the advancement of web2and the selective activation of pigments3along the activation line of the respective laser assembly32.

Preferably, in the case of activation unit9, in particular activation device32comprising more than one laser assembly33, each laser assembly33is adapted to direct the laser irradiation along a differing activation line, in particular so that, in use, the effective area of web2is defined by the plurality of activation lines, in particular the collective extension of the activation lines and the advancement of web2.

Each laser assembly33comprises a plurality of laser diodes, each of which being adapted to be selectively controllable. In particular, each laser assembly33is adapted to irradiate with light within the near-infrared regime, in particular the light irradiation having a wavelength ranging between 950 nm to 990 nm.

Activation device32comprises a housing34. The one or more laser assemblies32are placed within housing34, in particular they are mounted to housing34. In particular, in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 and 3 to 7, the four laser assemblies32are symmetrically arranged within housing34. A first pair of laser assemblies33faces a second pair of laser assemblies33. However, it must be understood that any number of laser assemblies33can be used, including odd and even numbers of laser assemblies33. It must be further understood, that a symmetrical arrangement is not required for the operation of apparatus1, in particular of unit9. I must be further understood that other arrangements of laser assemblies32are possible.

Activation unit9also comprises a positioning assembly35adapted to position activation device32with respect to web2. In particular, positioning assembly35is adapted to precisely position activation device32with respect to web2after placing of web2within apparatus1.

In particular, positioning assembly35is adapted to move activation device32into a rectilinear direction, in particular into a direction being parallel to axis B. Furthermore, this direction is transversal to direction D, even more particular perpendicular to direction D. In other words, the rectilinear direction is parallel to direction T.

In more detail, positioning assembly35comprises:a track portion36, which movably carries activation device32; anda drive assembly37adapted to move activation device32into the rectilinear direction.

In even further detail, track portion36is connected to support plate24and protrudes transversally, in particular perpendicularly away from support plate24. In particular, track portion36is arranged substantially parallel to axis B.

More specifically, drive assembly37is adapted to move activation device32to and away from support plate24. Drive assembly37comprises an electrical motor38and a coupling element (not shown). The coupling element being coupled to activation device32and adapted to move activation device32into the rectilinear direction upon activation through electrical motor38. In particular, electrical motor38being coupled to support plate24, even more particular to the side of support plate24opposite to the side at which track portion36is mounted to support plate24.

With particular reference toFIG. 7, activation unit9also comprises at least one controller assembly39adapted to control operation of activation device32. In particular, controller assembly39is electronically connected to activation device32for controlling operation of activation device32. Assembly39is adapted to control e.g. the intensity of the activation energy applied, the on and off-times etc. Assembly39is also electronically connected to control unit15. Control unit15being adapted to control assembly39.

In more detail, assembly39is adapted to selectively control each laser assembly33, e.g. to selectively control parameters such as the light intensity, the on-and-off-times etc. Preferably, assembly39comprises single controllers40, each one connected, in particular electronically connected, to one respective laser assembly33and each one adapted to selectively control the operation of the respective laser assembly33.

With particular reference toFIGS. 1, 3 to 7, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to actively cool or heat web2during advancement of web2between stations7and8, in particular prior, during and/or after activation of pigments3by activation unit9at station10.

In more detail, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to cool or heat web2in the proximity of station10, in particular so as to avoid a loss in the integrity of web2, in particular as a consequence of the activation energy, in particular the electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular the laser light irradiation directed, in use, onto web2by unit9at station10.

In particular, in the case unit14cools, in use, web2local temperature increases of web2are avoided. Such local temperature increases if increasing above a critical temperature would locally damage web2(the critical temperature being dependent on the specific characteristics of web2). In the case unit14heats, in use, web2, web2, in particular pigments3are pre-conditioned so that activation of pigments3can be induced at lower activation energies (i.e. for inducing a change from the deactivated state to an activated state a lower activation energy is necessary with respect to the case of not pre-conditioning the pigments3by heating web2). This allows to operate unit9such to induce activation energies at lower intensities, reducing thereby the possibility of a loss in web integrity, in particular due to local temperature increases above a critical temperature.

It must be noted that cooling and/or heating web2means that these parts of web2, which interact with temperature-conditioning unit14, are cooled or heated at a specific moment. Thus, not the web2as a whole is cooled or heated, but only these parts of web2interacting with temperature-conditioning unit14in a specific moment of operation of apparatus1.

Preferably, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to cool or heat web2at least at station10; i.e. at least during activation of pigments3by activation unit9at station10or at least during ablation of web2. In the embodiment shown, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to cool or heat web2prior, during and after activation of pigments3at station10.

In particular, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to actively cool or heat web2during a respective portion of path P1and/or a respective portion of path P2. In other words, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to cool or heat each section of web2for a defined temperature-conditioning time t. Temperature-conditioning time t being less than the time needed for web2to travel from station7to station8or from station8to station7. In particular, the ratio between the temperature-conditioning time t and the time to advance from station7to station8or vice-versa ranges between ⅕ and 1/20.

Even more particular, temperature-conditioning unit14is configured such that the temperature-conditioning time t ranges between 34 ms to 140 ms, in particular between 40 ms to 60 ms, even more particular for 56 ms. Even more particular, web2is cooled or heated for the same time prior and after activation of pigments3at station10. Thus, each section of web2is cooled or heated respectively for about between 17 ms to 70 ms, in particular between 20 ms to 30 ms, even more particular for 28 ms prior and after activation of pigments3at station10.

In more detail, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to cool or heat web2in the proximity of station10, in particular so as to avoid a loss in the integrity of web2.

In even more detail, temperature-conditioning unit14is adapted to cool or heat web2between a first temperature-conditioning station43and a second temperature-conditioning station44. Station43and station44being interposed between station7and station8.

In particular, temperature-conditioning unit14comprises an contact surface for cooling or heating web2with which web2is at least partially, preferably fully in contact with. In particular, web2is at least partially, in particular fully in contact with the contact surface along its extension in direction T. Due to the advancement along direction D web2is in contact with the contact surface also along its extension in direction D. Preferably, web2is at least partially, in particular fully in contact with the contact surface in the area of station10.

In particular, web2is at least partially, preferably fully in contact with the contact surface between stations43and44.

In particular, the contact surface is arranged in the area of station10, even more particular the contact surface is arranged such that web2is, in use, in contact with the contact surface at least during activation of pigments3, preferably prior, during and after the selective activation of pigments3at station10by activation device32, in particular by laser assemblies33.

More specifically, temperature-conditioning unit14comprises a temperature-conditioning roller45having an outer lateral surface. The outer lateral surface of roller45defines the contact surface of temperature-conditioning unit14. In other words, the outer lateral surface of roller45is the contact surface.

In particular, temperature-conditioning roller45is arranged between station7and station8, in particular in the area of station10.

Even more specifically, temperature-conditioning roller45is rotatable around a respective rotation axis C, in particular being parallel to axes A and B. In use, rotation axis C is transversal to web2, in particular orthogonal to web2. In other word, in use, temperature-conditioning roller45is substantially parallel to direction T.

More precisely, temperature-conditioning roller45is arranged on support plate24and protrudes away from support plate24. In particular, temperature-conditioning roller45is perpendicular to support plate24.

Preferably, temperature-conditioning roller45is adapted to be actively cooled or heated, in particular to be conditioned to a temperature between 10° C. and 40° C., preferably between 15° C. and 30° C., even more preferably between 20° C. and 28° C. In particular, temperature-conditioning roller45is adapted to be internally cooled or heated so as to cool or heat the outer lateral surface of roller45. Even more particular, temperature-conditioning roller45is adapted to be cooled or heated by a temperature-conditioning fluid, in particular a temperature-conditioning liquid, circulating within temperature-conditioning roller45. Most preferably, temperature-conditioning roller45is adapted to be cooled by a cooling fluid, in particular a cooling liquid, circulating within temperature-conditioning roller45.

Preferentially, temperature-conditioning roller45comprises a conduit (not shown) for receiving the flow of temperature-conditioning fluid, in particular the temperature-conditioning liquid.

Temperature-conditioning unit14also comprises a respective drive assembly, in particular an electrical motor48adapted to actuate rotation of temperature-conditioning roller45around axis C.

In particular, motor48is connected to support plate24, in particular at a side of support plate24opposite to the side to which temperature-conditioning roller45is mounted to.

In a preferred embodiment, motor48acts as a master; i.e. control unit15is adapted to control rotation of discs19around the respective axes B as a function of rotation of temperature-conditioning roller45around axis C.

Advantageously, but not necessarily temperature-conditioning unit14also comprises a contact establishing assembly49adapted to establish, in use, contact of web2with the contact surface, in particular temperature-conditioning roller45, even more particular the outer lateral surface of roller45. In particular, assembly49is adapted to establish contact between web2and temperature-conditioning roller45, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45between station43and station44. In this way, assembly49allows to control the contact surface area between web2and temperature-conditioning roller45, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45, so as to control the temperature-conditioning time and efficiency. Furthermore, in this way, assembly49allows to control the overall area of web2being in contact with temperature-conditioning roller45, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45.

In particular, assembly49comprises two auxiliary rollers50and51adapted to establish, in use, contact of web2with temperature-conditioning roller45, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45between respectively station43and station44. In particular, rollers50and51being adapted each to rotate around a respective rotation axis E.

In particular, in use, web2is interposed between roller50and temperature-conditioning roller45at station43and is interposed between roller51and temperature-conditioning roller45at station44. In use, web2is in contact with the respective outer lateral surface of rollers50and51.

Preferably, assembly49further comprises a positioning group52for selectively positioning rollers50and51with respect to roller45. In particular, device51is adapted to position rollers50and51in such a manner so as to define the contact area of web2with roller45, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45. Even more particular, group52is adapted to independently move rollers50and51into two directions orthogonal to the respective axes E.

With particular reference toFIGS. 1, 6 and 7, temperature-conditioning unit14further comprises at least one temperature-conditioning device53, in particular a cooling aggregate, adapted to cool or heat, in particular to cool, roller45, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45.

More specifically, device53is fluidically connected to the conduit and is adapted to direct the temperature-conditioning fluid, in particular the cooling fluid through the conduit.

Preferably, device53is adapted to cool assembly39, in particular each one of controllers40.

With particular reference toFIGS. 1, 3 and 4control unit15comprises an inspection assembly58adapted to inspect web2, in particular for inspecting web2after the selective activation of pigments3at station10. In other words, assembly58is adapted to inspect web2after decoration of web2. In particular, assembly58is adapted to inspect web2for determining the quality and/or correctness of the decoration applied to web2. Even more in particular, assembly58is adapted to inspect web2for determining the quality and/or correctness of the decoration applied to each part of web2, which defines one respective single label sheet, which are to be cut from web2, in use, within a labeling machine.

Preferably, assembly58is also adapted to inspect web2prior to the selective activation of pigments3at station10. In other words, assembly58is preferably also adapted to inspect web2prior to decoration of web2. In particular, inspection of web2, in use, prior to the selective activation of pigments3at station10allows to control the operation of activation unit9in such a manner to correctly decorate web2. Preferably, inspection of web2, in use, prior to the selective activation of pigments3also allows to obtain respective reference information (such as reference images) prior to activation of pigments3.

In more detail, assembly58is adapted to optically analyze web2, in particular assembly58is adapted to obtain images from web2, at at least a first inspection station60, preferably at the first inspection station60and at a second inspection station59.

In even more detail, assembly58comprises at least a first optical sensor member61arranged at station59and a second optical sensor member62arranged at station60. In the particular embodiment disclosed, station60is arranged between station7and station10; and station59is arranged between station10and station8.

Sensor members61and62can be a photosensor, a camera or any other optical sensor, which is adapted to inspect web2, in particular to inspect graphical markers and/or images and/or text on web2.

In particular, control unit15also comprises an analysis group63adapted to receive signals from assembly58and to analyze the signals in such a manner to determine the quality of the applied decoration and/or the correctness of the applied decoration.

Even more particular, analysis group63is also adapted to analyze the advancement of web2and to provide for a feedback about the correct advancement of web2between stations7and8. Unit15is adapted to control advancement of web2between stations7and8as a function of the information obtained from analysis group63, in particular for guaranteeing the correct alignment of web2, in particular of the single label sheets to be cut, at station10.

Preferably, unit15, also comprises a memory group64adapted to at least temporarily store/memorize information of the correct or incorrect decoration of web2, in particular of each one of the single label sheets of web2.

With particular reference toFIGS. 1 and 3, control unit15also comprises a first reel diameter detection sensor65adapted to detect and/or determine the diameter of web2wound-up on reel18arranged at station7; and a second reel diameter detection sensor66adapted to detect and/or determine the diameter of web2wound-up on reel18arranged at station8.

In particular, unit15is adapted to selectively control the rotational speed of reels18around their respective axes A as a function of the respective diameter. In particular, unit15is adapted to control the respective drive unit29, in particular the respective drive assemblies so as to control the rotational speeds of reels18.

Even more particular, unit15is adapted to increase the rotational speed of the respective reel18when, in use, the diameter reduces and is adapted to decrease the rotation speed of the respective reel18when, in use, the diameter increases.

In use, prior to operation of apparatus1a set-up step is performed, during which a reel18with wound-up web2is placed within unit16and an empty reel18is placed within unit17. Web2may be of the pre-decorated/pre-printed type or may be blank.

Then, during a second part of the set-up step, web2is guided around rollers31and through a portion of unit14so as to guide the leading edge towards reel18placed within unit17, in particular to finally connect the leading edge of web2to reel18placed within unit17. In particular, web2is guided around rollers31and around roller45.

It must be noted that it is also possible to place reel18having a wound-up web2within unit17and to place the empty reel18within unit16.

Preferably, after alignment of web2between station7and station8a positioning step is executed, during which device32, in particular assemblies33are positioned with respect to web2. In particular, device32, in particular assemblies33are positioned with respect to web2by activation of assembly35.

Advantageously, an advancement step is executed during which web2is advanced between station7and station8, in particular along path P1or path P2. More specifically, web2is advanced between station7and station8by conveying means6. Even more specifically, web2is advanced by activation of drive unit29, in particular by activation of respectively the first drive assembly and second drive assembly30of drive unit29. In particular, drive unit29, even more particular the first drive assembly and second drive assembly30actuate rotation of the respective reels18around the respective axes A.

Preferably, web2is advanced between station7and station8at an advancement speed between 0.5 m/s to 10 m/s, in particular at an advancement speed between 3 m/s to 8 m/s, even more particular at an advancement speed of 4 to 6 m/s. In particular, unit15controls the advancement speed of web2. The advancement speed can be varied.

During advancement of web2between station7and station8, also an activation step is executed, during which pigments3are selectively activated at station10by application of an activation energy, in particular an electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular by laser light irradiation.

In more detail, the activation energy, in particular the electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular the laser light irradiation is applied by activation of unit9, in particular by activation of device32, even more particular by selective activation of assemblies33.

In even more detail, control unit15controls control assembly39, in particular controllers34in such a manner to selectively control the intensity of the activation energy, in particular the electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular the intensity of the laser light irradiation.

In even more detail, each assembly33selectively turns on and off the laser irradiation along its respective activation line.

Advantageously, during advancement of web2between station7and station8and prior, during and/or after the selective activation of pigments3at station10, in particular by activation of unit9, a cooling step is executed during which web2is actively cooled. More specifically, web2is cooled or heated at least during the selective activation of pigments3at station10, in particular by activation of unit9. Even more specifically, web2is actively cooled or heated prior, during and after the selective activation of pigments3at station10.

In particular, the temperature-conditioning time t ranges between 34 ms to 140 ms, in particular between 40 ms to 60 ms, even more particular the temperature-conditioning time is 56 ms. Even more particular, web2is cooled or heated for the same time prior and after activation of pigments3at station10. Thus, web2is cooled or heated respectively for about between 17 ms to 70 ms, in particular between 20 ms to 30 ms, even more particular for 28 ms prior and after activation of pigments3at station10. It must be noted that the activation time can be, at least from a practical point of view considered instantaneous.

In more detail, web2is cooled or heated by temperature-conditioning unit14. In even more detail, web2is at least partially, preferably fully in contact with the contact surface, in particular with the outer lateral surface of temperature-conditioning roller45. In particular, web2is in contact with the contact surface, in particular the outer lateral surface of roller45between stations43and44. More specifically, stations43and44are defined by assembly49, in particular by the specific positioning of rollers50and51.

Temperature-conditioning roller45rotates around axis C. In particular, rotation of temperature-conditioning roller45is actuated by drive assembly48. Even more particular, temperature-conditioning roller45acts as a master, so that control unit15controls rotation of discs19as a function of the rotation speed of roller45. I.e. control unit15controls rotation of reels18around their respective axes A as a function of the rotation speed of roller45.

In further detail, the contact surface, in particular the outer lateral surface of temperature-conditioning roller45is cooled by a flow of a temperature-conditioning fluid, in particular a flow of a temperature-conditioning liquid, within temperature-conditioning roller45. In even further detail, the temperature-conditioning fluid, in particular the temperature-conditioning liquid circulates within the conduit. In particular device53tempers the temperature-conditioning fluid and directs the temperature-conditioning fluid into the conduit and recollects the temperature-conditioning fluid after exiting the conduit.

During operation of apparatus1also one or more steps of repetition can be executed; i.e. to advance web2more than once between station7and B. In such a manner it is possible to decorate different decoration areas of web2, the decoration areas being distinct from one another or being partially overlapping. For this purpose it is also possible to change the position of activation device32, in particular of laser assemblies33, in particular by activation of assembly35.

In particular, web2advances along path P1and along path P2as often as needed until all areas of web2to be decorated are decorated. It must be understood that it is also possible to operate apparatus1such that web2is always advanced along path P1or always along path P2. Such an operation would require to remove and replace reels18after each run.

In further detail, during advancement of web2the following additional steps are executed:a detection step for detecting any portions of web2having defective decorations;

andan information application step for providing information about the portions of web2detected during the detection step on web2onto web2.

Preferably, during advancement of web2also a memorizing step for at least temporarily memorizing the information about the portions of web2detected during the detection step is executed. The memorizing step being prior to the information application step, and in particular during the detection step.

In more detail, during the detection step assembly58inspects the decorations of web2obtained by activation of pigments3. In particular, assembly58images the portions of web2, which define the single label sheets of web2(i.e. the portions of web2, which after cutting define the single label sheets). Even more particular, assembly58images web2at least after activation of pigments3at station10, preferably assembly58also images web2also prior to activation of pigments3at station10. I.e. web2is imaged at station59or60or at stations59and60by respective member61and/or member62. Assembly58sends the images of web2to analysis group63.

Then, analysis group63analyses the decoration obtained after activation of pigments3at station10as a function of the respective portions (the single label sheets). In particular, analysis group63compares the images of web2obtained after and prior to the activation of pigments3in dependence of the respective portions of web2(the single label sheets). Then, analysis group63determines the correctness and or defectiveness of the decoration in dependence of the respective portion of web2(the respective single label sheet), in particular for determining any defective portion of web2.

Then, during the memorizing step memorizing group64at least temporarily stores the information about the portions detected during the detection step.

During the information application step the information about the defective portions of web2is codified onto web2by activating pigments3at station10. During the information application step also any additional information such as e.g. information about personalized graphical or written information, the production facility, the packaged product and so on can be included into the codified information too. Preferably, the information application step is performed at the end of the overall decoration of web2. In particular, in the case of the execution of advancing the web2between station7and station8more than once, after termination of each one of the single advancements (i.e. after termination of all steps of repetition). Preferably, the codified information is provided within the proximity of the leading edge of web2(i.e. the edge of web2, which defines to be the leading edge2once being placed within a labeling machine).

Alternatively, a sticker or the like may be printed with the codified information and the sticker may be applied onto web2. Another alternative is, to store the information electronically and to provide the information to a labeling machine electronically.

Preferably, prior to operation of apparatus1a tuning step is executed, during which tuning of unit9, in particular of device32, even more particular of assemblies33is performed for determining the working parameters of unit9, in particular of device32, even more particular of assemblies33. Such a tuning can e.g. be performed after spanning of web2between stations7and8.

In the present context, the tuning step regards the determination of the needed intensity so as to obtain a desired color, such as a desired grey scale or a color tonality. In other words, assembly39controls the intensity setting of device32, in particular of assemblies33such that a certain intensity is provided for the selective activation of pigments3in order to obtain a defined color.

With reference toFIG. 8, the tuning of unit9is performed according to the following steps:a respective activation step at which unit9, in particular device32, even more particular assemblies33are selectively activated in order to obtain a color matrix according to what is shown inFIG. 8(in the particular case shown, a matrix of grey scales);a comparison step at which the obtained color matrix is confronted, in particular after having been imaged by means of assembly58, with a reference color matrix (gauging matrix) and the differences between the obtained color matrix and the reference color matrix are analyzed; andan adaption step at which assembly39adapts the intensity setting of device32, in particular of assemblies33.

The activation step, the comparison step and the adaption step are repeated until the obtained color matrix is substantially identical to the reference color matrix. Substantially identical means in this context that the determined and/or detected differences are within a pre-defined tolerance. Note that such a tolerance may differ from web of labeling material to web of labeling material or from production facility to production facility.

In particular, the comparison step is automatically performed by unit15, in particular by group63. Additionally, preferably, the adaption step is performed automatically, in particular by unit15.

Alternatively, the comparison step and the adaption step could be performed manually by an operator.

It must be noted that such a tuning step must not necessarily be performed prior to each operation of apparatus1. Preferably, the tuning is executed according to pre-defined time-intervals, which are a function of the details of the material of web2used, the quality requirements on the decorations to be applied onto web2, the environmental conditions and others. Another motivation to perform such a tuning can be related to a change of the kind of web2to operate with (change of material, etc.).

With reference toFIG. 10, number1′ indicates as a whole a second embodiment of a decoration apparatus according to the present invention. In particular, apparatus1′ being part of a labeling machine71for applying label sheets72onto receptacles, in particular bottles73.

As apparatus1′ is similar to apparatus1, the following description is limited to the differences between them, and using the same references, where possible, for identical or corresponding parts.

In particular, apparatus1′ differs from apparatus1in not comprising a second magazine unit. Instead, apparatus1′ comprises a roller74arranged at station8. Preferentially, roller74being adapted to rotate around a respective rotation axis F. Furthermore, in the specific example shown, support plate24of apparatus1′ is oriented horizontally.

Furthermore, apparatus1′ is adapted to directly cooperate with a labeling apparatus75of labeling machine71, in particular so as to decorate web2(and therewith, label sheets72) shortly prior to the labeling of bottles73.

Note that in the particular embodiment disclosed apparatus75is adapted to work with the self-stick label type. However, alternatively, the labeling apparatus could also be of the kind operating with sleeve-labels or pressure sensitive labels.

In more detail, labeling apparatus75is adapted to apply label sheets72to bottles73at a label application station76.

More specifically, labeling machine71comprises labeling apparatus75and apparatus1′. Even more specifically, labeling machine71also comprises a conveyor device, in particular a conveying carousel77adapted to advance bottles72along a receptacle advancement path.

In particular, conveying carousel77is adapted to support bottles73on its periphery and to rotate the same along the receptacle advancement path around a respective rotation axis G, in particular the bottle advancement path being arc-shaped. Preferentially, carousel77is also adapted to rotate bottles73around their respective longitudinal axes while being advanced along the receptacle advancement path.

Labeling apparatus75also comprises:a transfer device78configured to transfer label sheets72from a receiving station79to station76, at which label sheets72are applied onto respective bottles73;a feeding device80for feeding web2to station79;a cutting unit81, arranged adjacent to station79for cutting label sheets72from web2; anda glue application unit82arranged adjacent to at least a portion of transfer device78and between station79and station76and adapted to apply, at a glue application station83, a pattern of glue on the backside of each label sheet72prior to reaching label application station76.

In more detail, feeding device80is adapted to receive web2from apparatus1′.

In particular, feeding device80is adapted to cooperate with apparatus1′ so as to advance web2from station7to station8and to further advance web2to device80. In particular, feeding device80is arranged downstream from station8.

More specifically, cutting unit81comprises:a rotary cutting drum86arranged adjacent to at least a portion of device78and carrying, on its outer lateral surface, web2; anda stationary cutter blade or cutter87carried in a fixed position on one side of drum86and proximal to receiving station79so as to cooperate, in use, with drum86to cut one label sheet72at a time from web2. In particular, unit81is adapted to cut label sheets72of defined lengths.

More specifically, glue application unit82comprises a glue application roller88. In particular, glue application roller88is arranged adjacent to station83and is adapted to rotate about its respective rotation axis H.

In a further alternative not shown, apparatus75could comprises a glue application unit for applying glue directly onto bottles73.

More specifically, transfer device78comprises a transfer drum89rotatable around a central axis I. Drum89is adapted to retain label sheets72on its outer lateral surface during advancement of label sheets72from station83to station76.

More specifically, transfer drum89is arranged peripherally adjacent, preferably tangential, to glue application unit82, in particular glue application roller82at station83. Even more specifically, transfer drum89is also arranged peripherally adjacent, preferably tangential, to drum86at station79, and to carousel77at station76.

During function of machine71bottles73are advanced along the receptacle advancement path and, preferably, bottles73are rotated around their respective longitudinal axes during advancement along the receptacle advancement path for supporting the application of respective label sheets72onto bottles73.

Simultaneously, label sheets72are advanced from station79to station76, in particular by transfer device78, even more particular by rotation of drum78around axis I. Label sheets72are applied onto bottles73at station76. Preferably, a pattern of glue is applied, in particular by unit82, onto label sheets72at station83(i.e. the pattern of glue is applied onto label sheets72prior to application of label sheets72onto bottles73).

Web2, in particular the label sheets72obtained after cutting, are decorated by apparatus1′ prior to feeding web2, in particular the respective label sheets72(prior to being separated by cutting from web2) to apparatus75.

Apparatus1′ operates in a similar way to apparatus1. This is why only briefly the differences between operation of apparatus1′ with respect to apparatus1is described.

The main difference results from apparatus1′ not having a second magazine unit17, but having roller74instead.

Prior to operation of machine71a reel18with wound-up web2is placed within unit16.

Then web2is guided around rollers31and through a portion of unit14to roller74. From roller74web2is guided to apparatus75, in particular through device80towards station79.

The advantages of apparatuses1and1′ according to the present invention will be clear from the foregoing description.

In particular, apparatuses1and1′ allow to decorate a web2in a flexible manner, even more particular it is possible to personalize the decoration in an easy and straight forward manner.

Furthermore, apparatuses1and1′ allow to decorate a web2by advancing web2also at higher advancement speeds with respect to the apparatuses known in the art.

In particular, in the case web2is cooled during its advancement it is possible to operate with increased activation energies (laser irradiation intensities) allowing thereby to increase the advancement speed of web2with respect to the decoration apparatuses known in the art. As well, in the case web2is heated during its advancement it is possible to precondition web2, in a particular pigments3so as to operate at decreased activation energies (laser irradiation intensities) allowing thereby to increase the advancement speed of web2with respect to the decoration apparatuses known in the art.

In addition, an apparatus according to the present invention can be easily adapted to be used in an off-line mode (see apparatus1) or in an on-line mode (see apparatus1′).

Furthermore, decoration by apparatuses1and1′ allows to reduce costs with respect to the decoration apparatuses known in the art.

Additionally, the activation of pigments3during use of apparatuses1and1′ allows to obtain personalized label sheets, which do not come along with any health hazards due to the migration of any printing compounds into the packaged food product as it is the case for known decoration apparatuses.

Another advantage of apparatuses1and1′ is that it comes along with an auto-tuning process, allowing to automatically obtain the required operation parameters of, in particular, activation device32so as to control the quality of the decoration.

A further advantage of apparatus1is that web2can be decorated prior to being inserted within a labeling machine. This also allows to perform repeated decoration of web2by advancing web2repeatedly between station7and station8. This may allow to reduce the number of laser assemblies33, further reducing the overall cost of such an apparatus1.

An additional advantage of apparatus1is that at the end of the decoration of web2, it is possible to apply information about the decorated web2onto web2itself. Thus, it is possible for a labeling machine to directly obtain from web2itself all the information about the quality and possible defects of web2, in particular the respective label sheets. This then allows to control operation of the labeling machine itself as a function of any possible defects of web2, in particular the respective label sheets.

A further advantage is that an apparatus according to the present invention, in particular apparatus1′, can be easily integrated into existing labeling machines or into a labeling machine71. This is independent of the kind of labeling machine, thus, independent of whether the labeling machine deals with self-stick labels, sleeve labels or pressure-sensitive labels.

Clearly, changes may be made to apparatuses1and1′ as described herein without, however, departing from the scope of protection as defined in the accompanying claims.

In an alternative embodiment not shown, activation unit9of apparatus1or apparatus1′ is adapted to locally ablate web2during advancement of web2between station7and station8. In such an alternative embodiment, web2does not need to comprise pigments3, but apparatus1or apparatus1′ can be operated with any kind of web2. During operation, in particular during the activation step web2is locally ablated by means of the activation energy, in particular the electromagnetic activation energy, even more particular laser light irradiation at station10.