Apparatus and method for applying labels

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of labels, which are provided either on non-adhesive protection or without separation anti-adhesive protection between the labels.

This technology relates to a unique matrix cutting tool for applying labels, which enables rotary die cutting at high speed of label substrates exposed to glue, where the cutting edge of the matrix actually comes into contact with the glue.

1. Background Art [0002] Labels can be provided in a wide variety of formats. The most important part of the labels is the label material (often also referred to as the front side, e.g. natural or synthetic fiber paper, polymer foil, metal foil or a combination of these materials) with adhesive from the back side (e.g. self-adhesive adhesive, which in some cases may also include removable or microspheric adhesive, solvent activated adhesive and heat activated adhesive) and anti-adhesive protection that comes in contact with the adhesive. The labels are formed from the label raw material, on which the shape of the labels is cut, leaving the remaining part of the label material, known as openwork. The process of cutting label shapes from material to labels (sometimes including removing the openwork, leaving the label for and / or separating several label widths from a coil to a single label width) is called a conversion.

[0003] Labels that are not intended for sale (for the intermediate or end user) with non-adhesive protection on the adhesive side, referred to in the art as non-adhesive protection labels, are cheaper than labels with non-adhesive protection, most labels can be provided in the form of rolls of a given diameter are more environmentally friendly compared to traditional labels with non-stick protection and because they do not require disposal of security after use. (For example, any type of adhesive coated raw material that is provided in the form of a roll without release liner between the adhesive surface and the outer surface of the label is an example of a release label without a release liner). Labels without non-stick protection should also be less costly, because the entire production element leaves the production costs (non-stick protection). Security features can represent 35% to 50% of the total construction costs of a secured label. For these and other reasons, non-stick labels are becoming increasingly popular. Unsecured label application equipment with a retractable or thermally sensitive pocket for a variety of moving parts (such as substrates, bottles or packaging) is well known, as disclosed in US Patent Nos. 2,492,908 and US 4,468,274. Applying unsecured adhesive labels to moving parts, although it is known in the art, is not common (e.g. US Patent No. 4,978,415) and it is not possible to apply labels to all types of moving parts, such as envelopes, fabric , bottles, cans and packaging.

ΕΡ 2,114,674 Β1 [0004] According to US Patent No. 5,674,345, there is provided a method and device that quickly, reliably and universally applies self-adhesive labels without non-stick protection to moving parts. The equipment and method are universal because they can be used for envelopes, packaging, substrates, bottles, cans, packaging and many other moving parts, and the method and device are used so that after the labels have been left, no skeleton mesh is left, eliminating the need to dispose of label material waste. According to the device of the invention, means for mounting an unsecured label strip having a coated release surface and an adhesive (usually self-adhesive) surface are associated with many new elements according to the invention. These new components include a non-stick peripheral roller, a hardened vacuum die cylinder, cooperating with a cutting cylinder, having a radially extending knife blade, which in turn cooperates with a wiping roller that applies fluid removal material to the blade after each cut, and transporting means having multiple unique features. The transporting means include a plurality of transfer belts that are spaced transversely to the direction of the labels, the vacuum chamber helps the adhesive on the labels maintain the position of the labels on the transfer belts during transport. The conveyor belts usually have a round cross section to ensure a minimum contact surface with the adhesive label, and the labels are separated from the conveyor belts by a number of non-adhesive pull rings that face up above the top surface of the conveyor belts and are associated with a tear roller that bends the labels up after being bent by the pull rings. From the tear-off roller and pulling rings, the labels are transferred directly to the moving element. When, as is usually the case, labels are transferred to moving envelopes, labels and envelopes pass through the pressure rollers on which the self-adhesive glue is activated.

[0005J Unsecured labels have become even more popular because of the great benefits associated with them. When any labels (including unsecured labels) are used, it must also be possible to automatically print labels economically. One way to do this easily is by using a thermal printer or a thermal printer having a thermal print head with a thermal unwinding and winding system or a thermal printer with a direct thermal head. Traditional thermal printers, however, are not able to print unsecured labels because the surfaces that need to contact the exposed surface of the unsecured label adhesive as the labels are introduced into the print head, during printing or at the next stage. According to US Patent No. 5,560,293, many thermal printers are provided that eliminate this problem and are suitable for printing unsecured labels. The unprotected labels printed according to the invention can be practically any type of unprotected labels, such as, for example, the embodiments of thermal tape shown in US Patent No. 5,354,588 and the embodiments of direct thermal printing printer as shown in US Patent No. 5,292,713.

[0006] US Patent No. 5,560,293 describes a thermal printer that prints unsecured labels in such a way that the printer components do not stick to the adhesive surface of the unsecured labels. Basically stationary printer components such as a guide

The labels, transporting ply, front panel and stripping blade preferably have surfaces that are attached to the plasma coated adhesive so that the adhesive does not stick to them. The optional knife provided behind the astringent blade also has plasma-coated surfaces. The driven pressure roller has a surface coated or covered with silicone with a high degree of adhesion, which does not stick to the adhesive, but has a high degree of friction to facilitate the movement of labels. In the case of a direct thermal printer, the plasma-coated tear-off surface is located behind the driven pressure roller, and the tape strips, the second roller with O-rings and the like are provided so that the label does not wrap around the driven pressure roller. To control the drive of the pressure roller, one or more sensors are provided that respond to the position of the registration markers for the labels without protection. According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a thermal printer for printing unsecured labels, having an exposed adhesive surface, comprising the following elements: an uncoiling label element; substantially stationary label guide; substantially stationary transport plate; rotary driven pressure roller; printhead cooperating with the printing roller; and a label guide and transport plate having surfaces that attach to the adhesive surface of the label without protection at the label unroller, surfaces adhering to the adhesive include plasma coated surfaces that substantially prevent labels from sticking to them. The printhead preferably includes a thermal printhead, and the thermal head unwinding and coiling system is associated with the thermal head and feeds the thermal tape between the thermal head and drives the pressure roller. The driven pressure roller preferably has a peripheral surface, coated with a high degree of anti-adhesion silicone, which has both the property of non-sticking to the adhesive surface of the labels without protection, but also the property of high friction to facilitate label feeding. All other substantially stationary surfaces of the printer that also come into contact with the adhesive surface of the unsecured labels, e.g. the front panel, are also plasma coated. The transfer plate may include grooves to minimize the surface that joins the adhesive surface of the label. The head preferably also includes a drawstring blade / bridge mounted on the opposite side of the driven pressure roller from the label unwinding element in the direction of the label moving through the printer. The blade / puller bridge is positioned relative to the driven pressure roller and print head in such a way as to prevent the printed label from wrapping around the driven pressure roller and to help the label move from the pressure roller to the knife. The drawstring blade / bridge has a non-stick surface, preferably plasma coated, and typically the blade / bridge is mounted directly on the provided tear edge in the printer. According to the present invention, a traditional thermal printer can be easily modified, primarily by mounting an non-adhesive label guide, transport plate and driven pressure roller according to the invention, and a blade / drawbar on the existing tear-off edge, [0007] Unsecured labels are produced, for example, by feeding a tape having a non-stick coated surface and an adhesive surface to a cured vacuum matrix cylinder by means of a non-adhesive feed roller with a peripheral surface. The knife blade on the cutting cylinder rotates in contact with the tape on the die cylinder to cut the tape to

ΕΡ 2 114 674 Β1 unsecured labels, and release fluid is applied to the labels after each cut. From the matrix cylinder, the labels are deposited on multiple spaced circular conveyor belts with adhesive surfaces in contact with the conveyor belts. The vacuum chamber helps hold labels on conveyor belts. The surfaces coated with non-stick labels transferred on the conveyor belts can be heated and then printed with the hot, molten ink of the inkjet printer. The labels are separated from the conveyor belts by means of a separating roller and non-sticky pull rings, and then are immediately deposited on a moving web or other type of elements to which they are applied, with the label and web moving through the pressure rollers to activate the adhesive .

[0008] In addition to the obvious benefits of using unsecured labels, the technology is not evolving at the fastest rate expected in industry. The lower level of acceptance is due in part to the fact that the current application capacity of the application equipment is much smaller than in the case of secured labels. During manufacturing and delivery, higher speeds are critical in terms of efficiency, performance and cost effectiveness. Much slower equipment, such as the unsecured label application systems presented here, operating at a quarter speed to one half of the ground label applicators, reduces the cost advantage of unsecured labels. In addition, the cost of equipment for unsecured labels necessitates additional capital investment, and such equipment is only useful for unsecured labels.

In the case of a manufacturer who wants to switch from a secured label process or add a secured label process as part of his business, a new device must be purchased. At a cost of several hundred thousand dollars, this is not a very attractive scenario for companies producing labels.

[0009] According to the invention disclosed in US Patent No. 6,206,071, there is provided a method and apparatus that quickly, reliably and universally applies self-adhesive labels without protection on moving elements. The equipment and method are universal because they can work on any surface, including envelopes, packaging, bottles, cans, packages and many other moving parts, they can be used with all available labels without protection, and the method can be used in existing commercial devices by adding an innovative module according to the invention in accordance with the principles set out in this invention. The method of the invention includes providing unprotected labels on a reusable temporary substrate (reusable temporary substrate) in line or just before entering the labeling device, removing the label from the reusable temporary substrate, rolling the temporary substrate and reusing the temporary substrate to bring the labels unprotected for a regular label applicator with a tamper-proof seal.

[0010] US Patent No. 6,187,128 describes a method and apparatus for transferring and applying labels. The device includes a vacuum matrix roll and an idle roll that works to separate the base (label material and security feature) into component parts (label material or web surface and security feature). The cutting roller works with the vacuum roller

EP 2 114 674 Β1 matrix and provides a surface cut without web substrate to form cut labels. The traction pressure roller works with the vacuum matrix roller to press the cut labels against the underlying to form removable labels with non-stick protection. The advantage of the method is the elimination of the problem of the die cutting process that weakens or cuts the seal during conversion to labels with non-stick seal.

[0011] US Patent Application No. US 20010035257 (Fuji) discloses a method of a pattern embossing process having the step of transferring a pattern embossed onto a thermoplastic resin sheet by means of a pattern embossing roller; a rinse aid for the surface opposite to the surface of the extruded thermoplastic resin sheet using gloss means having a mirror element; and removing the thermoplastic resin sheet from the embossing roll pattern at a lower temperature than the embossing pattern transfer temperature. The embossing roll has a roller body having an embossed pattern on the surface and sealing rings attached on each side of the roller body, the roller body and sealing rings having a channel through which the coolant flows from one sealing ring through the roller body to the other sealing ring. The roller body 17, in turn, consists of the outer portion 19 of the cylinder, the central portion 21 of the cylinder, the inward outer portion 19 of the cylinder and the inner portion 22 of the cylinder inserted into the interior of the central portion 21 of the cylinder. In addition, in the processing device 10, viewed from the side of the embossing roller 13, on the side opposite the roller 14, a cooling roller 44 can be provided that adheres to the outer peripheral surface of the flexible roller 14. The surface temperature of the flexible roller 14 is controlled by a cooling roller 44.

[0012] US Patent Application No. 4,400,230 (Wyslotsky) discloses a device for indexing and applying labels, which provides a storage roller 50 of substrate material, providing rotational support and dispensing of substrate material 52 from roll 54. In addition, the direction rollers 56, 58, 60, 62, 63, 64, 64 of the backing material are supported on the frame 22 and direct the backing material 52 in the first direction indicated by arrow A, for possible positioning and rewinding in the heating terminal 46 and for contact in heating clamp 46 with the label 29 removed, as shown in Figure 7. Accordingly, the peeled label raw material 29 in the form of a web and the substrate raw material 52 are combined together in a heating clamp 46 to form a laminate 66, as shown in Figs. 1 and 7. A cooling roll 72 is provided in front of the heating clamp 46 having supply parts and draining cooling water 72a, 72b and a laterally positioned guide roller 73 of the coolant outlet that cools the combined laminate 66 of the unstick label raw material and substrate.

[0013] Freezing rollers and cooling rollers are separate components during extrusion, cutting and other production processes, are known as disclosed in US Patent Nos. US 7,070,727 {Calhoun et al.) And US 6,743,469 (DiZio).

[0014] US Patent No. 6,652,172 (Wood et al.) Discloses the use of heating cutting racks in the production of unprotected labels. A method of separating a segment of a label from an unsecured ribbon web in a printing device is claimed for the next

After application to the product, the tape web without protection is defined by the printed side and the adhesive side, the method comprising:

providing a cutting device comprising a heated cutting element; leading the web of tape without protection to the heated cutting element with the feeding device in such a way that the printed side is located near the heated cutting element;

contacting the unsecured web of tape with a heated cutting element to separate the label segment from the rest of the web as part of the cutting procedure; and raising the temperature of the heated cutting element to at least 1600 ° Fahrenheit to clean the heated cutting element after cutting operation,

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0015] One component that is used in the practice of the present invention includes a rotary head of a cutting or perforating label matrix, including glue on the label raw material, wherein at least 80% of the outer surface of the matrix head includes flat surfaces between the cutting edges, multiple edges cutting on the outer surface and the inner space in the die head, the inner surface supplies coolant to and from the space to cool the outer surface of the die head when the coolant temperature is at least 10 ° C lower than the temperature of the outer surface of the die head. The die head may have a coolant channel leading to the inner space of the die head, passing through the cutting zone in the die head and reversing the flow direction of the refrigerant so that it escapes from the die head or coolant channel, leading through the cut zone in the die head, wherein the coolant flows in the direction of flow to escape from the die head. The die head may have a distance between the nearest flow point between the cooling medium in the inner space and the outer surface in the range from 2 to 50 mm, preferably from 2 to 10 mm, in addition, the cooling medium preferably located in the interior space has a temperature lower or equal to -12, 2 ° C (10 ° F).

[0016] The use of a cooled cutting matrix reduces the accumulation of glue in the system, reduces the transfer from one component to another and limits the downtime of the device, forced removal of glue from sticking labels.

[0017] A preferred embodiment of the die cutting method involves the use of a cutting tool for cutting the label substrate, which surface with the adhesive faces the cutting tool, and then cooling the cutting tool to a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the exposed adhesive. The glass transition temperature (Tg) is a hallmark and determines the temperature at which it changes from flowing and soft to hard, brittle, glass-like material. The unique feature of the glue is that at or below the Tg temperature, it significantly or completely loses its adhesive properties. When cutting material on a rotary die, when the exposed adhesive must come into contact with the cutting tool, it is desirable to reduce the stickiness between the glue and the matrix, which limits the build up of the matrix. In a preferred embodiment, the cut or partially cut label material will stick to the less extent

EP 2 114 674 Β1 cutting tool. The unique cooling method eliminates this problem.

[0018] One aspect of the method is to cool the die to a temperature and condition in which it will not stick to the die body or the cutting edge of the die. An alternative way of converting the label raw material (label surface and security) or unprotected label raw material (which can then be combined with traditional security) is provided. The device for applying the label (both in places where the labels are applied for security and after the places where the labels are applied to commercial products) can use a security device with a smaller weight (thinner), and thus less expensive than in the case of the traditional process of converting and applying the label. The surface of the label web (including unsecured label webs) can be cut (the term "cut" defines, inter alia, a complete, micro-bridged cut as described below, or a perforated cut that includes all cuts between a bridge cut and a total cut where between label and openwork has no bridges), and then applied to the protection, wherein the adhesive surface of the label web is positioned relative to the release surface of the security feature. The cut label stock is applied to the security (which may include a reusable temporary security backing) before the cut label stock is introduced into the secured label application device or into the secured label application step. In this way, the roll of raw material with or without protection (on temporary removable protection) can be passed to the end user, which is the printing house, and the user will not have to use an additional device such as described in US Patent No. 6,206,071. The device at the end user's disposal does not need to be modified in any way relative to the traditional device used to apply traditional label files. A preferred arrangement includes a device according to the invention that converts and applies labels to security devices, and an end device that removes labels from security devices and applies them to commercial products. [0019] One of the unique elements is the use of a roller holding the leading edge of the label when it is cut or when it is still on the die / support roller hook. Holding the leading edge (i.e., the foremost edge in the direction of label movement) provides many advantages for the label and lines that were not noticed before, especially when the label is cut in the absence of a security feature in contact with the adhesive surface of the label material.

[0020] The unprotected label raw can be applied to a temporary (possibly reusable) carrier with pre-cut label shapes, and then combined with a seal, including a thin seal. The segments surrounding the cut labels are removed before, during, or after applying the label raw material to the temporary carrier. Label printing can take place during the production of the label raw material, after the material or label material is produced, before the label material is cut, after the material or label material is cut, before the material or label material is applied to the temporary substrate or after the material or raw material is applied to the reusable temporary substrate

112114 674 Β1 [0021] An additional (non-proprietary) method and device includes measures limiting the amount of work to be performed on a single line, separating the works into different lines, and even moving them to different places, which eliminates the problem of cross-contamination of materials used in different places during the whole process. This allows, in particular, printing on sheets that are cut into materials that form label rolls or printing on material and direct printing of printed sheets. Then, on a separate line (away from the printing line), an adhesive is applied (any form of adhesive, including but not limited to solvent-activated adhesive, adhesive, transferable, melted adhesive, external energy activated adhesive, and the like) on the surface of the sheet away from printing (or on the printed surface if the label is applied with the printed surface facing down), preferably, but not necessarily, before cutting the width of the roll of printed sheet. In another aspect, thin label security can be provided on the label material after cutting the label material, allowing the use of a thin substrate web in a label with security, without the waste or loss of quality that would be expected with thin security. Because of the substantially thin layer of protection, cutting or conversion of the label on the thin protection may lead to separation or wrinkling of the layer. The (preferably printed) label material (sheet, roll or web) along with the adhesive is cut (e.g. matrix) to the desired shape of the label, the cut label is transported through the device and applied to a carrier or seal to provide a completely assembled label raw material with a removable carrier. The openwork strip is removed from the completely assembled label raw material before winding onto the finished roll. The removal of the openwork can occur before (or after [preferably]) lamination of the label material on the support. A new feature is the roll forming for printing on the sheet, applying glue, cutting labels, and then applying labels to a reusable temporary carrier.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0022]

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a module or internal connection of components that can implement the method of the present invention and which can be part of a secure label applicator.

Figures 2, 2A and 2B show one embodiment of the device in which the adhesive is applied to the label material after printing, but before cutting and assembly on a temporary support.

Figures 3 show a perspective view of a micro-perforated die structure for cutting corners around labels.

Figure 4 shows a cross-section of a matrix edge with a micro-perforation hole on the edge of the matrix. Figure 5 schematically shows the delamination / cutting / re-lamination and the device.

Figure 6 shows the arrangement of the stabilizing roller of the device.

Figure 7 shows a side view of a rotary die with a cutting surface and an internal cooling system.

EP 2 114 674 Β1

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0023] The invention relates to the use of labels on security material and can include and use any material! label based on both paper (both natural and artificial fiber paper and mixtures thereof) as well as polymer film, metal foil and combinations thereof. Most of the practical parts of the invention will be described with reference to unprotected labels, since the label material provided at the starting point of the invention is the most complex work material. The emphasis on this particular labeling material does not in any way limit the wider scope of the invention, and this concept should be seen only as an example and not as a limitation. The steps for using the unprotected label can be used for traditional label materials. The only difference is that traditional label material can be delivered to the roiki cutting step or complete label material, peeling the label material or delamination from the security, cutting the label material, and then re-applying or laminating the security web. Although US Patent No. 6,187,128 attempted to perform delamination / re-lamination using vacuum perforated label support, the use of vacuum support led to difficulties, and this process was not commercialized, the use of vacuum not only did not facilitate the use of a thin security web, but led to deterioration of the quality of the final product having a thin web, due to wrinkling stress, applied to a thin layer of surface and the combined label raw material.

[0024] The rotating die cutting or perforating head of the label according to the invention can cut the adhesive on the label raw material. The die head includes an outer surface including flat surfaces and cutting edges elevated above the flat surfaces. Die head: (a) in which at least 80% of the external surface is covered by flat surfaces between raised cutting edges; b) has multiple raised cutting edges on the outer surface; and c) has an internal space in the die head.

[0025] The die head is characterized by an inner surface of the die head that allows the coolant to be transported to and from the space to cool the outer surface of the die head when the temperature of the coolant brings at least 10 ° C less than the outer surface of the die head. The coolant enters the inner space of the die head in the direction of flow (e.g. general direction from one side of the cutting head to the other), the coolant flows through the cutting zone in the die head and returns to then get out of the die head (essentially back toward one of the sides). Alternatively, in the cutting head, the coolant enters the inner space of the die head from the first side of the die head, flows through the cutting zone in the die head, and then, in the flow direction, escapes from the die head on the die head side opposite to the first page. Preferably, the die head has 90% of the outer surface, which includes flat surfaces between the cutting edges, wherein the die head is cooled to a temperature below 15 ° C or below the Tg of the adhesive on the label raw material, whichever is the lower.

112114 674Β1 [0026] A method of forming a cut label on a security device using a die head may include feeding a web of label material to a cutting station, including a cooling die head, described herein, and forming a cut label having an adhesive surface on the cut label material; cutting the label material to obtain an openwork near the leading edge of the cut label and the end edge of the cut label, the distance between the leading and rear edges determining the length of the cut label; cooling the die head with a cooling medium flowing through the inner space of the die head; stabilizing the leading edge of the label material relative to the openwork near the leading edge before the rear edge of the label material leaves the cutting station, stabilization being carried out without a vacuum applied on a surface covering at least 50% of the surface of the cut label; feeding the leading edge of the label material and the openwork near the leading edge of the label material to the clamp formed between the roller assembly, while the rear edge of the label is stabilized without vacuum; feeding the sealing strip to the roll set and onto the adhesive surface. Stabilization of the leading edge can be achieved without under pressure applied to the label material. The stabilization force can be applied by means of a physical element pressing the edge leading to the surface of the roller. The cutting station may comprise a die roll and die cutter together with said die head or die roll and hammer cutter knife with said die cutter. The method can be implemented with stabilizing the leading edge of

Or without vacuum applied to the cut label material. For example, the method can stabilize the leading edge by means of a vacuum applied to the label material to be cut, after being cut by the die head.

[0027] The method may be implemented to form a cut label on a security feature, and it includes feeding a web of label material to a cutting station, including a cooling die head and providing a clamp between the matrix roller and the cutting roller, cutting the label material to provide a leading edge of the cut label, and rear edge of the cut label, the distance between the leading edge and the tyin is the length of the cut label, feeding the cut label to the second clamp provided by the rollers and feeding the security web to the second clamp formed by the rollers, the distance between the first clamp and the second clamp being equal to or less than the length of the label.

[0028] One of the descriptions of the present invention includes a method of forming a cut label on a security feature, comprising: feeding a web of label material to a cutting station and forming a cut label having a surface on the non-stick surface of the cut label material; cutting the label material to provide an openwork near the leading edge of the cut label and the end edge of the cut label, the distance between the leading and rear edges determines the length of the cut label; stabilizing the leading edge of the label material relative to the openwork near the leading edge before the rear edge of the label material leaves the cutting station, stabilization being carried out without a vacuum applied to a surface covering at least 50% of the surface of the cut label; feeding the leading edge of the label material and the openwork near the leading edge of the label material to the clamp formed between the roiek assembly; feeding the substrate web to the roller assembly.

112114 674Β1 [0029] Stabilization can be accomplished in a variety of ways, without requiring a vacuum to be applied to a large area of ​​the label. Applying a vacuum to a large area of ​​the label has been a major problem in the state of the art. Vacuum can lead to deformation of the material (sometimes permanent, creating cavities). The cost of the vacuum die rollers is quite high and needs to be replaced frequently for individual label sizes to ensure that the vacuum seal matches the label size. The use of different vacuum die rollers increases the downtime necessary for replacement. A vacuum axis can be provided on the matrix roll or distribution holes along the lines on the matrix that cover a small area of ​​the individual labels to stabilize them. For example, if 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 labels are provided over the width of the matrix, then matrix rollers having 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 lines of holes (respectively) arranged along the width of the matrix roller (e.g. lines parallel to the surface of the matrix roller) so that the labels can be located on the matrix surface with a small or minimal vacuum surface applied to the labels and with a lower vacuum (e.g. less than 10 cm Hg, less than 5 cm Hg and so on).

It is preferred not to use a vacuum at all, although a limited vacuum may be used in conjunction with the other stabilization systems described herein.

[0030] The arrangement of the vacuum holes will require that for some label sizes, the surface of the label on which the vacuum holes are arranged is below 50% of the surface of the label, below 40% of the surface of the label, below 30% of the surface of the label, below 20% of the surface labels, less than 10% of the label's surface, or even a single line in the middle of the label. It should be remembered that the above percentages of surfaces are the areas between the most extreme holes that affect the label. For example, if the holes are halfway between the axis of the label and its edge, then the surface covered with vacuum will be 50% of the surface of the label. If the holes are located 10% of the distance from the axis to the edge, then 20% of the label surface will be covered with a vacuum.

[0031] It is preferred that no vacuum is applied to the label when the label is stabilized during cutting and transfer to the seal as described in the practice of the present invention.

[0032] The stabilization function serves to stabilize relative to at least a partial movement between the label material to be cut and the openwork formed by cutting the label material. This can be done using various methods or even other label material designs. If the labeling raw material is cut through (i.e. 100% of the label edge is cut off completely from the openwork), then the stabilization function or procedure is the sole stabilizing factor against relative movement. Various methodologies for implementing this function include, but are not limited to, perforation, micro-bridge (preferred), electrostatic discharge to layers or surfaces to provide contact, pneumatic forces, surface tension forces, and beneficial physical retention of both the cut edge of the label and and the edge of the openwork relative to each other. The combination of physical strength (primarily provided by pressure rollers or a clamp between the rollers) and micro-bridging is strongly recommended. A preferred method comprises stabilizing at least a leading edge, wherein stabilization is carried out without vacuum

ΕΡ 2 114 674 Β1 applied to the label material. The stabilization force can be applied by means of a physical element pressing the edge leading to the surface of the roller. The physical element is preferably a roll. The roller may be a separate pair of pressure rollers or it may be a single roller forming a clamp on the surface of the die roller. These options will be presented in detail when discussing the figures.

[0033] The roll stabilization method can be implemented by determining the distance between the die roll location where the rear edge is cut and the stabilizing clamp, to stabilize the relative movement between the cut label and the openwork, and to ensure that the distance is approximately less than or corresponds to the length of the label. The label material can be provided by peeling the seal away from the label material.

[0034] These methods allow the use of ultra-thin or ultra-light security devices. This type of solution has never been possible before. Significant savings can be achieved because the cost of many sheet materials depends mainly on the amount of material used. In particular, the use of vacuum can be avoided for thinner and lighter materials, since thinner and lighter materials can deform more easily than thicker and heavier materials. The thickness and weight of light materials will be discussed in more detail later. Preferred thicknesses include less than 1.02 miles, less than 0.93 miles, less than 0.75 miles, less than 0.65 inches, less than 0.50 miles, and evenly or less than 0.30 miles or 0.25 miles ( less than 0.026 mm, 0.023 mm, 0.0186 mm, 0.016 mm, 0.013 mm, 0.0078 mm or 0.0064 mm, respectively), especially polymeric protection or preferably polyester protection (e.g. foil made of polyethylene or naphthalene polyethylene). One form of forming the cut label on the security feature of the invention can also be described to include first feeding a web of label material to a cutting station forming the first clamp between the matrix roller and the die cutting roller. The label material is then cut (perforated, micro-bridged or cut off completely) to provide the leading edge of the cut label and the rear edge of the cut label, with the distance between the leading edge and the rear edge determining the length of the cut label. The cut label is fed to the second clamp formed by the rollers, and the security web is fed to the second clamp formed by the rollers. Where the clamping rollers stabilize the movement between the cut label and the openwork, the distance between the first clamp and the second clamp should be less than or equal to the length of the label. It is possible to implement a method in which pressure is provided between the matrix roller and the stabilizing roller, and preferably no vacuum is applied to support the cut label on the matrix roller.

[0035] The implementation of the invention makes it possible to release the security feature from the label material, cut the label material and re-laminate the cut label material for the security feature or on the new security feature without applying a vacuum. The original label can also be cut and fed to the original label raw material or reusable label raw material. In the case of micro-bridging labels, the cut should include a cut in which less than 5.0% (even less than 4.0%, less than 3.0%, less than 1.0%, less than 0.5%, and even less than 0.2%) of the total border holds the material that bridges the label with an openwork, and no single element of the bridge covers more than 2% or more than 1% of the restriction distance

21 linear (preferably less than 0.30%, less than 0.20%, less than 0.10%, and even less than 0.05%). The total length of the substrate of the entire cut forming the label is preferably less than 2%, preferably less than 1.5%, and even less than 1% of the total cut length, with each individual cut (e.g. 4 to 100 micro-perforations) not exceeding 0.5%, preferably less than 0.5%, and more preferably less than 0.25% of the total length surrounding the dividing line forming the cut.

[0036] An embodiment of the invention may include applying labels to the security feature, wherein after forming the label raw material according to a preferred method, individual labels from the micro-bridged label are removed from the security feature, leaving the openwork of the label material on the security feature and individual labels are applied to the security feature or where after the raw material is produced label, the openwork is removed from the micro-bridged label from the security, leaving the cut labels on the security material, and individual labels are then applied to the security. This can be used to create a source of labels, comprising a composite of a longitudinal temporary security composite less than or equal to 0.0259 mm or 1.02 mil, having an adhered surface of said low security temporary security, the adhesive surface of the label material, the composite having roll character. The source of labels may include label material, which is the material of the cut labels, including through cut, micro bridge cut, and perforated cut.

[0037] Non-polymeric safeguards may also be employed by practicing the present invention, and the reduced cost or greater security performance (e.g., permanent and temporary, multiple and single use) may alternatively or more appropriately be described by parameters other than thickness. For example, non-stick coatings or fiber-based substrates may have better weight performance per square meter. For example, a standard high-quality cellophane substrate (which can be used in the practice of the invention) is commercially available with a weight of about 60g / m² (about 53 microns or 2.1 mii). Advantages of the invention allow for optimal use of cellophane with a lower weight (or other satin papers with or without absorbed or applied non-adhesive materials or other auxiliary materials), amounting to 55 g / m² or less, 50 g / m2² or less, 45 g / m2² or less or even 40 or 30 g / m2² or less. Less weight satin papers have thicknesses not exceeding 2.0 miles (0.051 mm), less than 1.7 miles (0.043 mm), less than 1.5 miles (0.038 mm), and even less than 1.2 miles (0.031 mm), [ [0038] Another form of release protection is commonly available Supercalendered Kraft paper (SOK paper). It is usually delivered in a 40-pound (88 Kg / ream) package with sheets approximately 2.5 mil (0.064 mm) thick. The invention allows the use of lighter and thinner safeguards, allowing significant cost savings. Thicknesses less than 2.5 miles (less than 0.064 mm), less than 2.2 miles (0.060 mm), less than 2.0 miles (0.051 mm), less than 1.8 miles may be useful in carrying out the invention. 0.042 mm), or even less than 1.2 miles (0.031 mm), although for prior art label application processes they would not be applicable. Another security that can be used is machine finished paper (MF paper). The standard commercial weight is 50 pounds (110 Kg) with a sheet thickness of about 3.4 miles (0.09 mm). In the practice of the invention, MF paper less than 3.4 thick can be used

EP 2 114 674 Β1 miles (0.09 mm), less than 3.0 mii (0.077 mm), less than 2.6 mi! (0.067 mm), less than 2.2 miles (0.060 mm), less than 2.0 miles (0.051 mm), and even less than 1.2 mii (0.031 mm).

[0039] Polymer coated papers, especially polyolefin coated papers (e.g. polypropylene and / or polyethyleneene) are commercially available in packs of 40 pounds (88 Kg) with a standard thickness of about 2.5 mii. In the implementation of the invention, thicknesses less than 2.5 mii (less than 0.064 mm), less than 2.2 miles (0.060 mm), less than 2.0 m may be useful! (0.051 mm), less than 1.8 mii (0.042 mm) and even less than 1.2 mii (0.031 mm), although in the case of prior art label application processes they would not be applicable.

[0040] Unprotected label tape has a standard label substrate, a surface coated with release agent, and a surface coated with adhesive (usually self-adhesive, although thermal or chemically activated adhesives can be used). Unsecured labels are usually provided in the form of a roll or stacked sheets, with the adhesive surface of the sheet or roll in contact with the surface coated with the release agent of the next sheet or subsequent layer in the roll. The label is cut, partially cut or pre-cut directly from the roll or sheet and applied to the security device or component to which the label is applied. A common situation in the field of unprotected labels is that they are die cut, primarily by means of a cylindrical matrix, before the label is transferred to the product to which it will be applied. The main purpose of unprotected labels compared to traditional unprotected labels is to eliminate the necessary step of getting rid of the security after applying the label. This disposal is inconvenient, increases the costs for the user, and usually increases the cost of the label material, since a layer of material is provided in the form of any kind of security. Ordinary label raw materials were cut through the label and through the adhesive, making efforts to minimize contact and not damage the protection. Label materials moving at a speed exceeding 50 m / s require the use of very precise equipment and allow for small material deviations, bay ensure successful cutting and minimize the amount of waste and damage due to insufficient or excessive cut protection. The method described in US Patent No. 6,187,128 attempts to eliminate these disadvantages, but due to the need to use a vacuum to hold the label material, and especially the cut label, it proved to be ineffective, so that the invention was not commercialized.

[0041] Accordingly, the use of unprotected labels has, however, been limited by the need for additional capital expenditure and the inefficiency of the device designed for applying unprotected labels. The invention relates to and limits the above disadvantages of the device, products and methods disclosed in US Patent No.

US 6,206,071 and US 6,294,038, and additional problems found in trials committed in accordance with US Patent No. 6,187,128.

[0042] The present invention can be implemented in two ways. Firstly, the device can be manufactured with a built-in function of temporarily affixing a delaminated label or unsecured label on a temporary (preferably) reusable substrate. Secondly, you can provide a module that can be attached to an existing label applicator with a secured co

EP 2 114 674 Β1 also allows apiikators to apply labels with protection according to the invention. Protected labels are applied to substrates or components, feeding the labeled substrate to the applicator. The applicator can receive matrix cut label substrates or provides matrix cutting in the applicator itself. The label, after die cutting, is peeled off from the security device by means of a peeling device (e.g. a blade, underpressure, a scraper, a bending element, a tightening element and the like), and the formed label (this is a significant label shaped by die cutting) is applied to the surface on which it is required. These secured label application systems are available from various manufacturers and are quite efficient. The module of the invention effectively creates temporary unsecured labels or normal secured labels, removes the temporary security feature, and then preferably the security cap is returned. Returning collateral, which may be the same or slightly different from traditional collateral, reducing waste. By subjecting the collateral to a single U-turn, the cost of material and liquidation of the collateral are reduced by 50%, and a twentieth or more recycling of the collateral reduces the cost of the ground by 95%. By only returning security three times, which can be done with traditional security materials, savings in material and disposal of the security reach 75%. As can be seen from the cost-effectiveness, recycling can be done only a few times to provide significant economic benefits and reduce waste disposal costs. In the case of the invention, the return of collateral is not essential.

[0043] It is important to recognize that the invention provides unique opportunities and commercial potential to the field by using thin sheets as the substrate. The implementation of the invention also allows the production of unique constructions that are not available for known processes.

[0044] The terms "thin substrate sheet" or "thin protection" have a specific meaning in the practice of the present invention. Typically, the substrate sheets are 1.50 miles (0.0015 inches or 0.038 mm) thick. This is important in the case of mechanical processing, for example by means of rotary die cutting of the label material on the security. This significant thickness is necessary because the cutting operation is neither accurate nor useful for thin layers.

The displacement of layers and equipment, the need to ensure even and complete cutting of the raw material surface, material consumption, corrugation and other physical variations translate into the diversity of matrix cutting. The process is carried out in such a way as to ensure that the matrix cutting will be carried out completely by the raw material and the back side of the adhesive, and this means that it will almost completely penetrate for protection. To ensure that the seal is not cut completely, and thus that the sheet does not fall apart due to the lack of continuous structural layer structure, the seal must be thick enough (e.g. at least about 0.038 mm) to ensure that the edges of the matrix reach to secure, but they won't cut it completely. Thus, thin guards or base sheets mean a guiding thickness less than or equal to 1.02 miles (less than 0.0254 mm). Preferably, the substrate has a thickness of less than 1 mil (less than 0.0254 mm), preferably less than 0.8 myth (0.0203 mm), less than 0.6 mil (less than 0.017 mm), and even 0.25 miles or less (0.00626 mm or less). The preferred range is less than 1.0 miles

EP 2 114 674 Β1 (less than 0.0254 mm), less than 0.9 miles (less than 0.023mm) between 0.3 and 1.0 miles (0.0076 to 0.0254 mm), 0.4 a 0.8 miles (approximately between 0.01 and 0.021 mm). Such thin substrate materials are commercially available from Hostaphan® (registered trademark of Hoecsht AG) (e.g. 0.5mil, 0.0127mm, under the trade name 2SLK silicone coated film) sheets from Mitsubishi Chemical Company, which can also be used as a single-use protection on tar-glued roof panels. Suitable security material is available from Avery, Inc. in the form of a 1.02 mii (0.026 mm) thick backing sheet with an adhesive layer of 1.25 mil (0.032 mm).

[0045] Adhesives and most polymers have physical characteristics that can be measured and which are important for the use of the material. One of the important properties is the glass transition temperature of a polymer, which is a measure of a particular type of phase or physical transformation or transformation, which is a measure of certain types of phases and physical transitions or transformations that occur in polymers during their heating or cooling. Because polymers do not necessarily transition from solid to liquid and to gaseous as with some other materials, the equivalent conversion is measured and the glass transition temperature is the temperature at which the average volume of the polymer changes from solid, non-fluid material to the material sticky but flowing. The glass transition temperature (hereinafter Tg) can be measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) according to the procedure in ASTM E-794-95. Analyzes can be performed using a Pyris 1 instrument using the included software available from Perkin Eimer Instruments, USA. All measurements were carried out during the first heating cycle between -100 ° C and + 150 ° C on a sample that was extruded at 200 ° C and annealed at room temperature for about 7 days. The first heating cycle was carried out at a temperature increase rate of 20 ° C / min. The fusion heat was measured over the entire surface under the peak curve from room temperature to 105 ° C. The glass transition temperature is the interpolated center of the inflection point in DSC, which corresponds to the largest change in the given heat capacity of the sample. If tub block polymers are used, graft copolymers, they may have two clear glass transition temperatures due to the clear individual copolymer segments and the individual physical activities of the two blocks. In current technology practice, if it is stated that the cooling takes place to a temperature equal to or below the glass transition temperature and if grafted or block polymers are used, the term glass transition temperature may refer to any of the two glass transition temperatures (lower Tg1 and higher Tg2) and must at least apply temperature equal to or lower than the Tg2 of the polymer. In a preferred embodiment, this will apply to the Tg1 copolymer.

[0046] The base sheet composition may be any polymer or even a thin paper layer, for example polyester (e.g. polyethylene terephthalate, naphthalene polyethylene), polyamide, polyvinyl resin, polyvinyl acetal resin, cellulose resin (e.g. cellulose acetate, cellulose triacetate, etc.) and artificial papers, primarily layers of transparent paper of appropriate dimensions. Natural resins such as amylose resins can also be used. The surfaces of these layers can be physically or chemically treated to control their adhesion to the adhesive surface. Anti-adhesive layers, controlled-release layers and the like, for example silicone resins, acrylic resins, epoxy resins and resin blends can be used as extremely thin coatings on

ΕΡ 2,114,674 Β1 protected to control such properties as corona discharge, ion spray, oxidation, laser discharge and surface chemical reactions.

[0047] There is a definite technical problem regarding the use of thin layers of security on the label raw or unlabeled label raw. This problem occurs, at least in part, when cutting or die cutting on the substrate. Accordingly, when cutting, there is no precision to cut the label securely without compromising security. The protection is so thin that it is often cut when used at production speeds. Even if the die cut is slow to a line speed of 25 feet (7.63 m) per minute, which is a very low production speed, cutting may still occur. For a normal label production process where speeds are 100 feet (28.6 m) per minute, preferably 150 feet (42.9 m) per minute, slowing down to a quarter of the standard speed translates into a significant increase in costs. The present process enables an implementation method that allows thin labels to be produced and to avoid potential cuts through the security completely. This is a significant technical advantage. Even though thin protections have been attempted to be used in US Patent 6,187,128 vacuum processes, vacuum leads to deformation or wrinkling of the seal (e.g., even if not directly), slows down the process, and adversely affects overall process consistency and continuity.

[0048] Another technical problem that arises is the production speed, which must be high enough for production to be economically viable. As the speed increases, the probability of cutting normal label material increases significantly with the probability of label deformation. High speed reduces stacking stability, layer stability, leads to less accurate die cutting and increases the likelihood of production downtime. The process of the present invention, by completely eliminating the possibility of damage as a result of cutting, and by stabilizing both the cut label and the security web, allows a potential increase in speed, even above the production speeds of standard labels or application systems. [0049] The basic implementation of the invention that allows these production improvements has benefits that go beyond thinning. One of these applications includes the use of small perforations on the label raw material prior to applying the raw cut labels to the security. The "stabilizing edge of the cut label" also allows complete cutting of the label material before applying the sealing web to the material of the cut label. The above micro-perforation procedure has the more precise name "micro-bridging". The use of micro-perforation or micro-bridging methods (which will be described in detail in the following) provides the label, which is properly cut, has an appropriate pattern, allowing separation into the form of individual labels without the need for additional processing (e.g. deburring, cutting edges, etc.), providing at the same time, the aesthetics necessary for high-quality labels, and no additional means of stabilization between the openwork and the cut label are required. At the same time, it is easy to ensure the pre-cut label sheet is maintained thanks to mechanical or mechanical systems

ΕΡ 2,114,674 Β1 manual, which is another advantage. After the initial cutting of the label raw sheet into shape labels, the labels usually (in previous processes) fell off the openwork, slipped relative to the nominal position between the cut label and the openwork, or required separate processing (using a vacuum, which proved to be ineffective). The possibility of eliminating the separation of the cut label from the openwork, displacement between the openwork and the cut out label, or falling off the label from the openwork before, during or immediately after lamination of the cut out label on the security features is a significant advantage in itself and can be a significant factor in enabling the use of thin security features.

[0050] The micro-bridging or micro-perforation used in carrying out the invention has a specific meaning. When simply cutting a label from a raw label or sheet, the entire perimeter of the label design is cut out, the label removed (without further tearing around the rim) and applied to the surface of the product. Micro-bridging or micro-perforation involves a process in which less than 5% (preferably less than 2%, more preferably less than 1%) of the perimeter of the outer line or perimeter of the label remains uncut, or bridges are provided between the label and the openwork, with a single bridge not exceeding 2% (preferably less than 1%, more preferably less than 0.5%, even more preferably less than 0.1% or less than 0.05%) of the entire periphery or in the case of a single cut (where the natural sides form the edge of the label), measured along one or two connecting sides, between cut labels from the same raw material. The absolute dimensions of the bridges can also be defined. For example, each bridge should have a maximum dimension perpendicular to the periphery of the edge less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0 , 3 mm or less than 0.1 or less than 0.08 mm, for example up to 0.05 mm. Small bridges are able to ensure the attachment of the label in an openwork made of label material (openwork is the remainder of the label material and is usually disposed of after removing the label) in such a way that all raw material (openwork attached with bridges to the label) can be transported and transported without individual label processing. Usually at least two bridges are provided, usually more than at least three bridges, and usually more than four or more around a micro-bridged label. It is advantageous to provide 10 or less bridges, 8 or less bridges, 6 or less bridges during the implementation of the invention, if the surface of the label is from 25 cm² up to 1000 cm².

[0051] Micro-perforation or micro-bridging can be carried out easily by selecting the appropriate dies during the die cutting procedure. Typically, the die or die hammer or die assembly is designed or positioned so that the entire cutting contour is reflected on one or more parts of the die as an entire and continuous edge. When the matrix is ​​pressed against the surface to be cut, the edge cuts the label raw material, and in the case of holes in the cutting edge of the matrix, a bridge will form. This can be seen in figures 3 and 4.

[0052] Figure 3 shows a rectangular matrix 300. The matrix 300 has a base 302, a raised sharp edge 304, and a bottom 306. Slots 308 are shown on edge 304. Slots 308 do not cut the label material and leave a bridge on the rim forming the label.

[0053] Figure 4 shows the elevated edge 320 of the matrix. The raised edge 320 has a cutting edge 322 with a slot 324 along the edge. Slot 324 cannot cut

EP 2 114 674 Β1 the label after applying the matrix 320 to it. The length L of the slot 324 determines the dimension (width) of the micro-bridging along the cutting line constituting the periphery of the label. According to the above, the width or length of the gap 324 may be less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0, 1 mm and may be small enough to allow the bridge made on the notch to stabilize the label in the openwork, especially in combination with other micro-bridges or micro-perforations around the perimeter or periphery of the pre-cut label in the openwork.

[0054] The term "microperforation" was accidentally used or described in US Patent No. 4,945,709, although it is clearly used to describe the creation of small holes in the material as opposed to the formation of small bridges along the die cut or other cut along the periphery. U.S. Patent No. 5,076,612 discloses to me perforation in a completely different way, regarding the printing paper known as "Microperf". Known methods can be used to define a portion of the edge 44 of a certain width, e.g., preferably in the range of 1/3 -1 café, providing fine, closely set perforations along line 48. In this case, the bridging material accounts for most of the periphery. American patents no

US 6,261,252 and US 6,106,492 disclose to me the perforation as a small cell foam.

[0055] Perforation is used fairly widely in the field of label making, including ordinary postage stamps in the form of labels. In these cases, a very large portion of the periphery is retained (for stamps, the percentage is usually between 25 and 60 percent of the open or perforated periphery), and the bridge segments are approximately equal. Individual or even bridges in this case can constitute up to 3-10% of the entire periphery between adjacent marks or sections.

[0056] The micro-bridging of the present invention is carried out by means of holes along the continuous line of the cutting edge of the die. The number and size of these holes determines the surface that is not cut by the matrix and which remains in the form of a micro-bridge at the edge of the label.

[0057] This invention can be at least partly described as a device adapter module that detaches the substrate from the label and applies the label to other protections, the module allows the device to apply a) de-labeled label material or unprotected labels, the module comprising:

source of label raw material or sheet of labels without protection, source of security sheet (from label raw material or separately from labels without protection), roll leading the label raw material or label sheet after removal from the source of unprotected labels, in the case of label raw material, delamination part, in whose security band is separated from the label raw material, and in the case of unsecured labels, a separate source of the security band, a die knife and die roller defining the area through which the label sheet (without attached security, either as the original unsecured label or as delaminated label material from ordinary label raw material) can move between said die cutter and die roll, the laminator roll near the die roll , defining the area between the matrix roller and the roller

EP 2 114 674 lamin1 laminator, through which both the backing sheet and the labels cut from the label sheet move between the anvil roll and the laminator roll to provide temporary support for the security of the cut label without protection.

The label moves in the processing direction along with the front edge, also called the leading edge and the rear edge. The leading edge is the first part of the label material that is cut on the roll matrix, and the rear edge is the last part of the label cut by the roll matrix. While the rear edge is still pressed or held by the clamp between the matrix roller and the cutting roller, the leading edge is pressed or held by the stabilizing roller on the matrix roller. At least one stabilizing roller or a set of two rollers should be provided. In the case of a single roll, the stabilizing roll can also act as a laminating roll. In the case of two rollers, the first roll will act as a stabilizing roller and may partially or freely laminate the substrate and cut label or only support or stabilize the non-laminated security assembly and cut label, leading this assembly to the laminating roller when the first stabilizing roller contacts each label (e.g. rear edge), while the laminating roll begins lamination of the label (leading edge) and the substrate web. The distances between the support or stabilizing roller must always be such that, all the time, between the cut label and the seal, pressure is exerted on both the rear edge and the leading edge during the transition from cutting to stabilization, cutting to laminating and stabilizing for laminating (which can be done with matrix / matrix and one or two additional rollers as described above). The roll guiding the label web without protection from the wound roll may for example include an upper roll. There may be a tension controller between the roller guiding the secured or unsecured label and the die roller and die cutter, e.g., free roller, pneumatic or hydraulic tension controller, spring tension controller and the like. The die may be, for example, a reciprocating knife, a hammer knife or a roller knife. During the operation of the module and the device, after removing the cut labels from the cut security material or unprotected label sheet, an openwork may form that winds on the take-up roller. The module can be a free-standing module mounted in a frame or housing, which can in turn be attached to the device. The free-standing frame or housing can be equipped with security feed sources and / or secured labels or unsecured labels, separated from the module or separate independent modules or components attached or associated with the module in which unprotected label sheets or label material and fastened for temporary, preferably reusable protection. If a matrix roller is used, it may have holes on the surface through which a reduced pressure (vacuum) is applied to hold the cut label as the matrix roller rotates, but as previously noted, this is disadvantageous, even though that the stabilizing roller corrects problems arising from the effects of vacuum on an unsupported / unstabilised cut label. To reduce the tendency for glue or other material to settle on the surface of the knife, a layer of grease can be applied to the knife with a grease gun, grease applicator or

ΕΡ2 114 674Β1 non-stick liquid. An important issue from the point of view of the invention is the use of a cooled die cutting system for one or both cutting elements and / or a supporting element, e.g. a rotary die, a flat die, a hammer, a die and the like.

[0058] US Patent No. 6,294,038 discloses a device for applying labels to the surface of elements by means of a module or several of the above-described modules feeding a complete product, including a temporary combination of security (e.g., temporary reusable security) and a cut label, and a device comprising a separator or divider (described later) to remove the cut label from the temporary security feature. The device may also include a winding element for winding a roll of openwork comprising a security device from which the cut label has been removed. There is also provided a device for applying labels to secure components, a device comprising a module according to the invention arranged to feed a combined product, including a temporary combination of security and a cut label, which device includes:

a) separator or divider to remove the cut label from the temporary substrate,

b) a winding element for winding onto a roll of openwork covering the ground from which the cut label has been removed, and

c) a guide recording the label web, between the roll guiding the label web or sheet after removal from the label source. The device may provide a label guide roller in the form of an upper roll, and between the label guide roller and the die roller and die knife, there may be a tension controller, and the die knife may be a cutting roller, with the openwork formed after removing the cut labels from the label sheet. on the take-up roller. The matrix roll should not bring reduced pressure or vacuum to support the label, although a small value can be applied because the possibility of substrate movement and susceptibility to wrinkling is reduced due to the stabilizing roller.

The stabilizing roller (or stabilizing and laminating roller) must be in contact with the leading edge of the cut label, while the cutting roller provides pressure on the rear edge of the cut label. The contact at both ends of the cut label ensures stability when transporting the cut label without protection onto the laminating roll. Pressure on both sides of the label can be released at the rear edge after it presses on the leading edge to stabilize the relative movement (prevents relative movement) between the cut label and the ground. This device may have subcomponents or modules according to the invention (deiaminator, die / die, re-laminating device with stabilizing roller) in the form of free standing modules embedded in a frame or housing attached to the device. The device may apply reduced pressure (vacuum) elsewhere in the web path to stabilize movement, but this is not necessary and less advantageous to hold the cut label as the die rolls rotate. The invention eliminates some elements of the process, for example, eliminates vacuum support for the label, because the micro-perforation allows the pre-cut, micro-perforated label raw material to be transported with the labels attached to the openwork by means of bridges, and the stabilizing roller allows

EP 2 114 674 wyc1 notch (all edges of the label shape cut completely), because the roll is able to provide support for both the cut label and the ground, without relative movement between them.

[0059] US Patent No. 6,206,071 also discloses a method allowing a secured label applicator to receive unprotected label sheets for application to component surfaces, including a module according to the invention attached to a secured label applicator such that :

(a) a security sheet in the form of a temporary security sheet and

b) cut labels without protection from the sheet of unprotected labels are fed to a secured label applicator, with the secured label usually directed to a secured label applicator. Also described is how to apply unprotected labels to other security features after allowing the label applicator to receive unprotected label sheets to apply to the surface of the elements, with the unprotected labels removed from the temporary security sheet, and then the unsecured labels are applied. to another surface. This solution can also be expanded in such a way that after removing the cut labels without protection from the temporary protection sheet, the used temporary protection is wound onto a roll. Then, the roll on which the temporary protection sheet is wound is used as a source of protection in the module including:

source of the unprotected label sheet, roller leading the unprotected label sheet, after removal of the unsecured label source, matrix die and matrix roller defining the surface through which the unprotected label sheet can move between the die cutters and the matrix roller., laminator roll nearby matrix roller, defining the surface between the matrix roller and the laminator roller, through which both the security sheet and the cut unsecured labels from the unsecured label sheet can move between the matrix roll and laminator roll to create a temporary support for the cut unsecured label, the roll must provide pressure between the cut label and the security throughout time between cutting the back edge of the label and laminating the leading edge of the cut label on the seal. As an alternative solution of the invention, it is also desirable to provide a pre-rolled (and preferably pre-printed) source of microperforated, partially separated or partially segmented labels with no security features on temporary protection, which may or may not constitute temporary protection or reversible thin protection. The source roll is an innovative solution because a label with a back adhesive surface and a non-stick coating on the surface to which the adhesive will not adhere, with micro-perforated bridges, fastening the label to the openwork, has never been provided before

EP 2 * 114 674 Β1 protection, including thin protection and temporary reusable protection.

[0060] The innovative feed roller can be produced in a variety of ways, depending on how the roll will be used. Useful design solutions for unsecured wound labels include:

1) providing a stream of unsecured labels (e.g. with adhesive applied to them) outside the Production Union, before rolling, partial cutting of individual labels on a continuous sheet by means of the microperforation process according to the invention and application of a continuous sheet with partially cut labels for temporary protection, and then rolling the label and security composite together with or without core;

2) providing a stream of unsecured labels (e.g. outside the production union, before rolling the label raw material, partial cutting out of individual labels on a continuous sheet by means of the microperforation process according to the invention and separation of labels from the cut out surrounding segment, where the individual labels are unsecured and secured , then rolling the composite with a micro-perforated label and security with or without a core; labels may be separated from the surrounding segments before, during or after the application of labels for temporary protection;

3) providing a roll of unsecured labels, unwrapping unsecured labels or partially creating or separating individual labels by micro-perforation or micro-bridging and linking the label stream (with or without surrounding segments) with temporary protection, removing the surrounding segments from a continuous sheet of labels without protection , during or after being associated with temporary protection, the labels are partially cut on a temporary seal and then feeding the label composite and substrate to the label applicator or rolling the label and seal composite into a roll (with or without core) prior to entering the applicator. Partial cutting means that the labels have a shape, but bridges are provided between the shape of the label and the openwork; and

4) providing a roll of label material (preferably printed), delamination of the label material from the security, cutting the label (by means of perforation, micro-bridging or complete cutting) and a roller ensuring pressure between at least part of the cut label and the security at all times, between cutting the edge of the back label and laminating the leading edge of the cut label onto the seal until the label is secured on the substrate. Openwork can be conveniently downloaded during the process using standard solutions.

[0061] In the above three methods, many alternatives and modifications can be made. Labels or raw label material can be printed at any time, for example, before applying adhesive, before or after separating individual labels, before or after separating labels from surrounding elements, or before or after applying unsecured labels for temporary protection. In the case of thin protection,

ΕΡ 2 114 674 Β1 is strongly recommended, although it is not necessary to print labels before applying to the thin seal.

[0062] A sheet of unsecured labels or individual labels may be applied to temporary security, may be partially separated or partially cut into micro-perforated individual labels, may be printed and then applied to the surfaces in any other way using commonly available equipment and in similar processes to those using secured labels. After forming a roll or stream of secured labels or unprotected labels on the temporary security material, this type of composite can be used similarly to secured labels, unprotected label composites and temporary security, manufactured as described above. The composite can then be fed to a traditional label applicator.

[0063] A method allowing a secure label applicator to accept an unsecured label sheet for applying elements according to the invention to a surface may include associating a source of micro-bridged, partially cut labels or completely cut labels on a reusable security sheet roll with a label applicator, the composite :

a) a reusable temporary bed sheet, and

b) micro-bridged or cut labels without a substrate is fed into the label applicator, with the label normally directed to the label applicator. The cut label can be removed from the temporary protection sheet, leaving the openwork on it due to the tearing of the micro-bridges, and then applied to another surface. After removing the cut label from the temporary protection sheet, the temporary protection sheet is wound on a roll and may or may not be reused. After winding the temporary security sheet on the roll, the roll is unwound and the unlabeled label can be reapplied to the security sheet, which is used as a reusable temporary security sheet. After unrolling the roll and applying the label to a temporary security sheet, to make a reversible roll, the label attached to the roll is fed to the label applicator with the label secured, the label being normally directed to the label applicator. The roll is used to provide the label on the reusable temporary seal as the source of the label, with the applicator performing normal working steps, including: bending the label on the temporary seal to remove at least partially the edge of the label from the temporary seal by applying a raised edge to the surface on which the label is applied and the label attached to the surface.

As with label and temporary security composites produced on-line, temporary security is separated from the label in the applicator, leaving the openwork by tearing bridges formed by micro perforation, and then supported rolled, supported non-rolled and new labels or label material are applied to it .

[0064] Another method of providing a sheet of rolled material according to the invention comprises a method of forming a label on a reusable temporary carrier, comprising the steps of:

EP 2 114 674 Β1

a) printing the image on at least one surface of the first sheet material;

b) applying adhesive to at least one surface of the printed first sheet material;

c) pre-cutting the sheet material to form individual labels by perforating, micro-piling or a complete cut-out leaving bridges or not between the labels and the openwork, ensuring all the time pressure between the cut label and the protection between cutting the back edge of the label and laminating the cut edge security labels;

d) applying the surface of individual labels to a temporary carrier sheet to form a label raw sheet; and

e) rolling a label raw sheet onto a label raw material roll or using it in a secured label maker.

[0065] With this solution, the label raw material from the roll is fed to the label applicator, the labels from the label raw material being applied to the substrate, and the temporary support is picked up on the roll and the openwork is attached or separated from the support. The method also provides for receiving the roll of temporary media and transferring it as a label security. The method makes it possible to collect a roll of temporary support (after removal of the openwork), then transfer it as a reusable temporary support by repeating steps a), b) and c) for a second printed sheet material that differs from the first sheet material. Different from the first sheet means that it is different from the sheet, although the print does not have to be different from the second printed sheet.

[0066] Reference to figure 1 will help explain the module that can be used in the practice of the invention, using an example of an unprotected label raw material, although a slight change in this configuration (described below) allows the use of traditional label raw materials (label material on security) and any label materials . An unwinding carrier 2 is provided having a roll of 4 labels unsecured. The unwinding support 2 is preferably powered because it helps control the tension of the labels 6 without protection. The roller 8, preferably the top roller 8, helps when removing the label 6 unsecured at an angle at 10, between the top roller 8 and the roll 4 of the unsecured label. The unrolled label roll 4 preferably has an unsecured label 6 wound in such a way that the adhesive surface 12 of the unsecured label faces the center 14 of the unwinding 2. The label 6 without protection is optionally moved to the tension control element 16, which can optionally be a free roller. It is also advantageous to keep the label material 18 unsecured after being detached by the recording roller or the pulling / recording roller 20. The two elements, the free roller 16 and the recording roller or pulling / recording roller 20, are preferred embodiments in which the unprotected label sheet 22 can be temporarily supported on a reusable support. In this drawing, the unprotected label sheet 22 is fed between the matrix roll 24 and the matrix cutter 48 in such a way that the unprotected label sheet 22 is fed towards the cutter 48 facing the matrix roll 24. Knife 48 will have a die surface (not shown here, but described in Figures 3 and 4) that allows

ΕΡ2114 674Β1 performing microperforation on label raw material. The matrix roller 24 does not require negative pressure because the laminating roller 32 acts as a stabilizing roller. The die roll 24 has a surface 26 that faces the die cutter 48 and that separates the label unsecured by perforation, micro-perforation, or cutting (not shown). The die shears 48 face the adhesive surface of the label 22 without protection (thermal, self-adhesive, water based adhesive, organic solvents) to form a perforation, cutouts or microstroke along the periphery of the label on the label sheet 22 without protection. The distance k between the contact point between the die cutters 60 and the 24 die roller and the contact point between the laminating roller (or first stabilizing roller) 32 and the die roller 24 must be slightly smaller than the length I of the cut material 44 of the label. The length k should be measured as the dimension of the substrate along the surface of the matrix roller 24. Die-cut label 28 without protection with adhesive surface 30 (e.g. self-adhesive adhesive, thermal adhesive, solvent activated, etc.) is transferred on the surface 26 of the matrix roll 24, with the die blades 48 facing the laminator roll 32 (which in this case acts as a stabilizing roller and laminator roll). Substrate 34 is fed from a source (e.g., roll, not shown) recycled / reusable substrate material. The web guide rollers 36 can be used to guide the substrate 34 towards the laminator roller 32. Security 34, with surface 38 coated with release material facing adhesive surface 30 of label 28 without die-cut security, is laminated on label 28 without die-cut security, to form a temporary unsecured label system 40 and carrier, potentially including a substrate / carrier reusable 42, having a number of previously made micro-perforated 44 die-cut labels, whose adhesive surfaces 46 face the potentially reusable support / substrate. This type of temporary label arrangement 40 can be then applied to the surface by a traditional application system of labels (not shown), in the same way as labels, even if pre-provided as labels. Openwork is removed from the label material without protection due to the force sufficient to lift the label and tear the bridges formed between the label and the openwork. The unsecured / temporary temporary label arrangement 40 can then be separated or separated at the adhesive bond and release surface of the temporary reusable seal. Label 44 applied to the security (not shown) and security can be wound on a take-up system (e.g. roll, not shown). The wound protection (not shown) can then be used as a substrate source 34, fed into the laminator roller 32. The tension control elements 64, which are essentially a control system, are associated with the transducer roller 56 and the free roller 16 to provide the possibility of adjusting the tension, when the openwork 50 passes the idling roll 57.

[0067] The openwork 50, comprising the remains of the label 22 without protection, after die cutting 28 is removed from the label 22 without protection and moved away from the die roll 24 and die 48, towards the winding system 52 (e.g. take-up winding) of the openwork. Preferably, a pull roller 54 and transducer roller 56 are provided between the die cutter 48 and the openwork winding system 52.

This type of complete module can be attached to or inserted into a conventional label applicator with a seal to make the temporary label arrangement 40 unsecured and carrier

EP 2 114 674 Β1 was fed into the system of a traditional secured label applicator, to which secured labels were applied. This type of physical attachment can be accomplished by snapping the module into the slots on the device, by screwing or welding the module to the label application device, by attaching an additional frame near the label application device, or by using other physical means of mounting the module to the label applicator . The module can also be a free-standing unit, enabling the insertion of multiple use protection into the label applicator system with the ground. In this way, the module need not be physically attached directly to the design of the label applicator with protection.

[0068] This system, as mentioned above, can be used together with traditional applicators, ordinary label protections and ordinary raw materials or label rolls without protection, other optional elements in the label applicator with protection include a feed roller with a non-adhesive peripheral surface, a hardened vacuum matrix cylinder , cooperating with a cutting cylinder having a radially extending knife blade, which in turn cooperates with a wiping roller, which applies fluid removing material to the blade after each cut, and transporting means having a variety of unique features. The transporting means include a plurality of transfer belts that are spaced transverse to the direction of label transport, the vacuum chamber helps the adhesive on the labels maintain the position of the labels on the transfer belts during transport. The conveyor belts can generally have a round cross-section to provide a minimum contact surface with the label pocket, and the labels are separated from the conveyor belts by a plurality of non-adhesive pull rings that face up above the top surface of the conveyor belts and are associated with a tear roller that bends labels upwards after bending them on a tie-off element such as tie rings, blades, rollers and the like or even lifted by means of reduced pressure (e.g. vacuum lifts). From the tear-off roller and puller device, the labels are transferred directly to the moving element. When labels are transferred to moving envelopes, labels and envelopes pass through the clamp rollers on which self-adhesive glue is activated.

[0069] Several unique interactions have been found among stabilizing procedures, cooling procedures and the use of micro-perforations (as described herein) that contribute under certain conditions to increase of yield and quality. For example, the method can be implemented to form cut labels on a substrate. The label material web is fed to the cutting station including the cooled die head. The die head with internal cooling described herein is preferred. The process is used when forming the cut label material having an adhesive surface on the cut label material. The label material is cut to provide an openwork near at least the leading edge of the cut label and the back edge of the cut label (where the side of the label is also cut). The distance between the leading edge and the rear edge determines the length of the cut label. The die head is cooled, and in a preferred way of cooling, due to the flow of coolant through the inner space of the die head. The cut substrate web is guided into a set of rollers towards the adhesive surface. The combination of Qak micro-perforation described herein), physical label stabilization (without negative pressure as described herein) and cooled die head (as described here in general and in detail) have been found to provide the overall effect

EP 2 114 674 Β1 guaranteeing better performance than if these components were used separately.

[0070] In particular, the combination of all three components both limits the transfer of glue and significantly reduces the adhesive strength between the adhesive layer and the die cutting edge to prevent the label raw material and / or the openwork from lifting from the roll substrate, which could lead to interference during the cutting and application process . For example, without cooling, even when stabilizing without using a vacuum, the label may stick and lift (although lifting can be significantly reduced by using appropriate stabilization). Without stabilization, labeling can often occur, especially at high speeds and in the absence of micro-perforations. Without micro-perforation, removal of the label will often lead to lifting or partial removal of the openwork with protection. Without cooling, glue will transfer. The combination of all three ways of stabilization without negative pressure, cooling and micro-perforation eliminates all three disadvantages present in separate processes.

[0071] The process is preferably carried out in a system in which the die head provides micro-perforations on the cut label material, comprising less than 1% of the entire cut (along a single edge or around the entire perimeter), leaving the fastening material and including at least four consecutive cuts, defining edge or entire label.

[0072] One aspect of a preferred embodiment of the invention that helps distinguish the invention from other processes and materials is the use of a substantially smaller support on which the label material is applied. For most types of commercial label making, these are made on wide sheets and then converted into smaller (narrower) ones. In the present invention, the carrier is used repeatedly, usually not processed once and is usually slightly larger than the applied label (e.g. 1 cm, 2 cm, 5 cm wide labels and the like and can be manufactured up to a width of 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 cm). The carrier sheet, as detailed in another part of the document, may also be thinner than the protections used during other manufacturing processes.

[0073] A printer, such as a thermal printer (dye suspension, dye dispersion, mass transfer, etc.) or inkjet, print head and so on, may be equipped with conveyor belts for printing the inscriptions on the surface coated with the release agent of the label just before removing the label from conveyor belts. If the ink is melted ink, preferably a heated platen is provided over the coating coated with the release agent of the label to heat it to dissolve the ink.

[0074] Unsecured labels may include a substrate having a surface coated with release agent and an opposite surface coated with adhesive. The label substrate may be any sheet, film or material forming substrate, preferably a flexible material such as paper, synthetic paper, nonwoven sheets, material sheets, films or polymer sheets, and the like. Sheets or polymer films of ethylene saturated monomers (polyvinyl resins, polyolefins, polyesters and the like) and material sheets (e.g., sheets, nonwovens, fabrics, knitwear) can be used. The adhesive may be a thermal adhesive (e.g. polyvinyl resin, polyamide, polyolefin, polyesters, etc.), self-adhesive adhesive (e.g. polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyurethane, polysiloxane, etc.) or solvent-activated adhesive (e.g. natural resin, resin

ΕΡ2114 674Β1 synthetic, gums, esters, soluble resins in organic solvents, water-soluble resins, polyvinyl alcohols), gelatines, poly (vinyl pyrrolidone), poly (meth) acrylates, polyolefins, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride), after! and (vinyl acetate), poii (vinylicetai), cellulose resin, cellulose acetate butyrate and mixtures thereof).

[0075] When applying labels to a temporary seal, the following steps may be performed: (a) providing a seal or tape comprising a seal with a surface coated with a release agent and an opposite surface with adhesive in the first direction; (b) partial cutting of the tape, thanks to it, the perforation to form individual labels on the cutting station as the tape is guided in the first direction; (c) further transporting the labels away from the cutting station in the other direction, placing the labels and the openwork attached to the conveyors, the sizing surface facing the conveyor; and (d) continuously detaching the labels from the conveyor and the openwork, tearing off the bridging material between the label and the openwork, while applying separated labels to the moving, temporary reusable protection. It is also possible to provide a print on a surface coated with release agent during transport in the other direction, and (e) continuous application of the printed labels on moving parts.

[0076] When applying unsecured labels to a temporary, moving, reusable seal, the following steps can be performed: (a) providing an unprotected label sheet covering the substrate with a release agent coated surface and the opposite surface with adhesive in the first direction, (b) partially cutting the sheet using micro perforation to form individual labels in the cutting station when the sheet moves in first direction approaching the surface covered with the release agent of the sheet to the hardened matrix ensuring rotation of the separating element such as the knife blade, coming out radially from the first cutting cylinder and coming into contact with the sheet, with the knife blade extending transversely to the first direction, (c) continuous transport of labels away from the station cutting in the other direction, and (d) constantly applying labels to a moving conveyor, e.g. a moving substrate, separating labels from the openwork, tearing the bridge material.

[0077] Typically, the elements to which the labels are applied include moving envelopes, boxes, jars, bottles, packaging and the like, in which case the next step is provided, after applying the label to the moving element, mechanical pressure of the coated coating is provided self-adhesive label so that it makes contact with the element and that proper attachment is ensured between them, e.g. by guiding them through a pair of pressure rollers if the system is thin enough or using pressure from the back and front applied around the label and components.

[0078] Other elements preferably present in the module include, for example, a grease applicator roller 58 that applies grease or release material to the cutting surfaces 60 of the matrix 48, at the point where the matrix knife 48 contacts the adhesive (directly or when cutting the label to the surface adhesive), and which preferably contacts the surface covered with the adhesive (not shown) of label 22 without protection. A detection device (e.g. 64) may be present

ΕΡ2114 674Β1 at various locations on the roller to detect and inform the operator or control system (e.g. computer or computer program) that the tension should be adjusted by moving components or system speed. The vacuum die roll 24 may have negative pressure areas V to attach labels or variable pressure areas (e.g., negative pressure to hold the label, neutral pressure or positive P to release the die cut label 28).

[0079] The cutting device may include a hardened vacuum die cylinder rotating about an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the idler roller and the feed roller. At least the circumferential surface of the vacuum matrix cylinder should be hardened to perform the function of the matrix. Vacuum supplied by a vacuum cylinder (vacuum cylinders are commonly known) holds a sheet of labels unsecured and then the labels cut from it on a peripheral surface. To work with a hardened vacuum matrix cylinder cutting the sheet band into individual labels, a cutting cylinder having a laterally extending knife blade (or radially spaced knife blades, if desired) may be involved. The cylinder rotates about an axis parallel to the axis of the matrix cylinder and means (such as a frame) are provided to fix the cutting cylinder near the matrix cylinder in such a way that the cutting blade gently contacts the hardened surface of the cylinder.

[0080] To prevent the knife blade from sticking to the sheet when cutting labels, a small amount of release fluid is applied to the blade or sheet between cuts. This can be done, for example, by using a sterile abrasive roll, which is a felt roll soaked in non-adhesive material and mounted so that it rotates around an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the cutting cylinder and near the cylinder, so that the blade rotates and moves away from the hardened surface of the matrix cylinder. with felt and receiving a small amount of release fluid while turning the wiper roller. This is just one of the many obvious options for applying non-stick layers, others of which include spraying, rollers, dipping, ligands, and the like.

[0081] The length of the labels cutting is determined on the basis of the ratio of the rotation of the feed roller to the rotation of the cutting cylinder (and the number of cutting blades). The ratio can be changed using traditional mechanisms such as gears, single-turn clutches or servomotors.

[0082] The vacuum die cylinder transports the cut labels together with temporary reusable protection. Further transport of the label on the temporary seal is carried out in order to move it away from the cylinder and bring it into contact with moving parts, for example envelopes or containers. Transport can be accomplished by pulling the composite of the unsecured label or using a conveyor that can be part of the secured label applicator. The adhesive on the adhesive surface of the label facilitates the adhesion of labels to temporary reusable security devices so that they can transport labels in the transport direction to ensure that the labels remain in place until removed from the security device. The vacuum cylinder is preferably provided to secure unprotected labels and transport them for application on a temporary, reusable seal. The vacuum draws in air through openings on the surface of the cylinder, thus ensuring the force holding the labels on the die or cylinder.

ΕΡ 2 114 674 Β1 [0083] The unsecured label sheet may be printed or it may be advantageous to print the inscriptions on the surface coated with release agent. In this context, a printer such as an inkjet printer, thermal transfer method (mass or dye transfer), contact printer (lithographic, relief or gravure printing, etc.) and the like can be provided. If the inkjet printer is applying hot dissolved ink, then just before the print head, it is advantageously possible to provide a platen that heats the surface coated with a release agent to allow the ink to be received from the head. After printing the labels, apply them to moving parts, for example, envelopes in the right direction, and the tearing force of the vacuum chamber is necessary to properly separate the labels from temporary reusable protection. To this end, a peel-off system may be provided to remove labels from temporary reusable protection. One type of dehumidifier system includes one or more peel off elements, such as pull rings, having non-stick peripheral surfaces associated with the pull roller. From peeling off labels from temporary reusable protection, the adhesive surface of each label comes into contact with an element such as an envelope, and the envelope together with the attached label can be transported by pressure rollers, thus activating the adhesive adhesive, ensuring adhesion to the envelope. If the element on which the label is attached is too thick to use the pressure rollers, other usual solutions can be used to ensure the pressure of the element from the front and back. To this end, vice-type devices may be used, e.g. forceps, flat plates moving back and forth on both surfaces, and the like.

[0084} To remove a label from a reusable temporary seal, a seal applicator is provided in the seal applicator, which is typically used to remove the seal from the labels inside the device. The separating mechanism includes puller elements, preferably sliders, rollers, ramps, plates, blades or puller rings that face up above the top of the temporarily supported unsecured labels. Another type, usually a non-sands element, such as a roll (e.g., bending the substrate without a label on a non-flat surface to lift the edge that can be peeled off from the protection), is used to bend or bend any label away from temporary reusable protection, usually lifting an edge or corner that can be used to lift the rest of the label from the temporary reusable protection. The astringent member, at least the parts that are in contact with the adhesive surfaces of the labels, can be made of coated non-fading material, for example polytetrafluoroethiene, polysiiokanes or cross-linked polysiloxanes. The astringent element can also be a container or a substrate that is labeled. The tear roller, if present, can be mounted such that it rotates about an axis parallel to the axis of the vacuum roller and can be provided just above the temporary reusable protection just before the puller. The tear roller helps to peel off labels from the temporary reusable security feature by bending each label upwards, thus causing the edge of the label to move in a tangential direction to both the tear roller and the puller, bending over the puller. The tightening element can be rotated by means of a propeller shaft and can also be loosely mounted on the shaft

In this way, it can be used so that relative movement between them is possible or it can be a fixed or rotating blade. The module on various components may provide a drive mechanism or brakes that may require or allow the use of a drive mechanism or brakes such as, for example, 8,14, 20, 26, 32, 52 and 54.

[0085] Figure 2 shows a system 100 in which a roll 102 of printed label material 104 is coated with an adhesive prior to joining with a temporary carrier 106 which is fed from the roll 108. After pre-treatment (e.g. cutting on the table 110 for cutting the developed label, cleaning on the cleaning element 112 the web and processing by corona discharge using the corona discharge device 114), the prepared and pre-treated label material 116 is transferred to the unit 118 applying the glue (e.g. thermal glue) or fused) in which the adhesive is applied. The adhesive coated raw material 120 is transported to the cooling unit 122 and then to the cutting and applying unit 124. The cutting and application unit or module 124 may include a feed / register roller 126 and a die cutting station with optional vacuum transport 128. The rotary die may also be cooled to prevent sticking and adhesive transfer. Because individual labels (not shown) are cut by means of microperforation, they can (according to the description of this aspect of the invention) be supported during die cutting with the vacuum segment 128 and applied (adhesive side down or adhesive side up) on a temporary carrier 106 which was developed from feed roll 108. The carrier material 106 can of course be recycled and reused. During die cutting, by means of a vacuum segment 128, for example, a drawstring roll 134 may be provided that removes the cut openwork (not shown), a pull roll 136 temporary feeding of the substrate, and a laminating roll 138. The laminated assembly 140 glue coated label (not shown) ) on a temporary, reusable carrier, it is transported to the winding element 142, and the openwork 144 is led to the winding roller 146 of the openwork.

[0086] Figure 5 is a view of an alternative system 500 using traditional label raw material 502, delaminating label material 506 with cut protection from label material and substrate raw material. Figure 5 shows the arrangement of subcommands for delamination and re-lamination of normal labeled raw materials 502. Traditional labeled raw material 502 is guided into system 500, with raw material 502 divided into two web streams, label material stream 506 and substrate stream 508. Substrate stream 508 is guided by roller 514. The stream of label 506 material is routed between the roll 510 die cutting and 512 die cutting. The center point PI (in figures 5 and 3 in figure 6) of the contact between the die cut roller 510 and the die roller 512 is identified. Cutter roller 510 and anvil roll 512 provide pressure on the label material path 506 that may be sufficient at moderate distances along the pressure between the die cut roller 510 and the die roller 512. In figure 6, the cut-off label 516 (in figure 5) and 614 (in figure 6) is moved towards the supporting or stabilizing roller 618 and another pressure point f is created (in figure 6). The substrate material 614 is guided between the stabilizing roller 618 and the anvil roller 612, and the distance along the surface of the die roller 612 between the clamping points e and f is about the same as the length from the leading edge to the rear edge of individually cut labels (not shown) in material 516 cut labels . As you can see, points e

EP 2 114 674 if1 and f are maximum pressure points (center points) in the clamp between the die cut roller 610 and the anvil roller 612 and the stabilizing roller 618 in the die roller 612. Roller pairs (i.e. the clamps between the die cutting roll 610 and the die roller 612 and the stabilizing roller 618 and the roller 612) provide sufficient pressure to provide stabilizing pressure, so the length of the cut label does not necessarily correspond to the length of the linear surface distance along the anvil roller 612 between the eif clamping points to provide stabilizing pressure on the cut 614 label and between the cut 614 label, when it is between the clamp between the die cut roller 610 and the die roll 612 and the securing 616 and the cut label 614 at the pressure point f. The term "roughly equal distances between the clamping points between a) die cutting roller and die roller and b) stabilizing roller and anvil roller" means the distance over which the stabilizing pressure is applied in such a way that both ends of the label are pressed by two pressure rollers label cutting sides, in the direction the label moves through the layout. The distance cannot be easily estimated (even with respect to the length of the label) because it depends on the diameter of the rollers, the compressibility of the rollers, the extensibility of the label material and other factors. Distances (i.e. a distance that is roughly equal to the distance between the pressure points between a) the cutter roller and the die roller and b) the stabilizing roller and the die roller) can easily be determined by routine experimentation based on the information provided herein by simply moving the stabilizing roller 618 in back along the path A of the material stream 516 of the cut label.

[0087] Figure 5 is a schematic of the delamination / cutting / laminating device 500 according to the invention. The label raw material on carrier 502 is captured by a separation device 504 that delaminates label material 506 from carrier material 508. Label material 506 moves through the cutting area between the anvil roll 510 and the die roll 512. The cut openwork transport label affixed by means of micro-bridging 516 is transported further to the device 500. The separated carrier 507 is guided on a support roller 514. Carrier 508 and stable material 516 of the cut label are re-laminated between rollers 518 and 520. After lamination, the openwork 524 is separated from the carrier on which the cut label is located. The possibility of micro-bridging (not shown in figure 5) enables the transport of stable cut-off label material 516 between the cutting zone in the matrix 510 and the cutting area 512 of the matrix towards re-lamination between rolls 518 and 520. Without micro-bridging in an area where the material of the cut label is not supported by other surfaces or pressure, the openwork would separate from the label, usually the labels cannot be supported because individual substrates cannot be provided.

[0088] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus 600 equipped with a stabilizing roller 618 in a system to allow the creation of raw material of a cut label on a carrier 620, in accordance with one aspect of the invention. The cut label material 602 is guided into the clamp between the die roll 612 and the die cut roller 610 that form the clamp at point e. The stabilizing roller 618 forms the clamp at point f between the stabilizing roller and the matrix roller 612. The distance between the pressure points e and f must be the same or smaller than the length of the label 614 immediately after cutting. Preferably, the distance between the clamping points e and f is less than the length of the label 614, as above. The carrier material 616 is also guided to the clamp f between the roika

EP 2 114 674 Β1 stabilizing and matrix roll 612 to laminate on the material of the cut label. After passing the clamping point f, the openwork 622 can be formed by removing it from the material of the cut label on the carrier 620. The stabilizing edge allows the material 602 to be cut off completely (without micro-bridging) from the openwork 622. The label 614 is effectively supported on both sides of the label with two terminals e and f. The label material 602 can be connected with micro bridges to provide additional stability, but with stabilizing roll 618 this is not necessary.

[0089] Figure 7 is a side view of the die cutting head system 700 according to preferred embodiments of the method. The die cutting head arrangement is supported on a shaft 704 that can be driven or idle, and the die head 702 is shown with the outgoing cutting points 708 (e.g. for micro-perforation) and a relatively long flat surface 706B between the cutting points 708. Despite the fact that this solution is not limited to this way of working, it can be seen that the need for cooling and cooling efficiency increase due to the presence of large separation surfaces, especially when the separation covers more than 80% of the entire surface, and more importantly, when flat surfaces (or surfaces extending between the cutting edges that need not be perfectly flat) exceed 85%, more than 90% or more than 95% of the cutting surface of the die head. In this case, because a large amount of flat surface exposed to the glue or to which the glue can get through when cutting the substrate, the surface is more susceptible to sticking or transfer with glue. Cooling the exposed surfaces 706 and, to a lesser extent, the cutting edges 708 when cutting labels, prevents the adherence of a softer and more sticky adhesive to the surface of the die cutting tool. The purpose of the present system is to allow the surface of the die cutting head 702 to cool by passing a coolant through the interior of the die head, draining and replacing (in circulation) the refrigerant to maintain the desired or lower temperature on the surface 706 of the die head 702. To perform the cooling operation in the simplest manner, the coolant (usually a liquid such as chilled water, polypropylene glycol, etc.) is introduced into channel 710 and flows near a flat surface 706, represented by a distance of 716. The distance should be chosen so as to obtain a balance between the necessary structural elements of the matrix (it can not be too small, because the cutting pressure of the matrix can cause the matrix head to collapse or bend) and it can not be too large, and the channels

710, 712 too small because heat exchange (cooling) on ​​surface 706 will not be sufficient. The absolute minimum thickness of 716 is 2 mm, and the largest about 100 mm, despite the fact that thicker dimensions can be ensured by supplying a coolant with a lower temperature to the system. The range of smaller thicknesses 716 can be from 2 to 50 mm, from 2 to 40 mm, from 3 to 40 mm, from 4 to 40 mm and from 5 to 40 mm.

[0090] There are also alternative methods for cooling die cutting elements than the preferred structures and methods described above. The method used to cool the cutting edge is sufficient to prevent the adhesive from sticking to the cutting edges. Streams of cooling air can be used on the side of the rotary die cutter when cutting the edge surface from the adhesive, an electric system can be built to cool the surface

Peltier, but any other cooling solution can be used to cool the edges according to system needs. As already mentioned, the glue can be cooled to

ΕΡ 2 114 674 Β1 temperature at which it can be cut without sticking, but also not enough to flake! when in contact with the cutting edge of the matrix.

[0091] A preferred embodiment of the die cutting method involves the use of a cutting tool for cutting the label security that has an adhesive surface exposed (first contact with) toward the cutting tool. By cooling the cutting tool to a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the exposed adhesive, a significant reduction in the accumulation of adhesive on the matrix and volatile impurities on the adhesive in the matrix can be achieved. The glass transition temperature of the adhesive (Tg or Tg i) is a characteristic of the adhesive and determines the temperature at which (or other plastic material) changes from flowing and soft material to a hard, fragile, glass-like material. A unique feature of the adhesive is that at or below the Tg temperature, it largely or completely loses its adhesive characteristics. When cutting material on a rotary die, when the exposed adhesive must come into direct contact with the cutting tool, it is desirable to reduce the stickiness between the adhesive and the matrix. Limiting stickiness or stickiness reduces the build-up of deposits on the matrix in the form of the adhesive itself or the materials that adhere to it. In a preferred embodiment, the cut or partially cut label material will stick to the cutting tool to a lesser extent. The unique cooling method eliminates this problem. The actual contact temperature between the matrix and the adhesive is a relatively important temperature at which the cooling temperature should be maintained. That is, the internal matrix mass does not need to be kept below Tg at all times, but the blades or edges that are in contact with the adhesive, and preferably also the flat areas between the blades and the adhesive, should have a temperature below the Tg of the adhesive to reduce stickiness in place the contact between the matrix and the adhesive. At this point, since the adhesive will most likely have a temperature above Tg, it is preferred that the matrix has a temperature below Tg by at least 2, 5 or 10 ° C, so that the adhesive cools at the time of contact. It is preferable to cool the adhesive before it contacts the matrix to reduce the temperature difference between the cooled matrix and the adhesive.

[0092] When the coolant flows into the die head 702 through the channel 710, in a preferred embodiment, the coolant flow path will extend completely beyond the end of the cutting surface 720 to further increase the cooling effect to a maximum on the cutting surface. This is illustrated in figure 7 by means of turning point 714 on a flow path that is beyond the end of the cutting surface 720. The coolant flow path continues and exits the die head 702 through vent channel 712. The coolant is then returned to the area where it is cooled and returned to the flow path 710.

[0093] The above descriptions contain information that will make it possible to implement the invention. Descriptions are only used to describe examples of concepts and are not limited to them. One skilled in the art will recognize the broader applicability of the invention and the feasibility of implementing alternative constructions, materials, and methods of the invention, which are fully set forth in the following claims of the disclosed invention.

EP 2 114 674 Β1