Method and apparatus for tray loading of labels into label magazines

摘要

Method and apparatus for loading stacked labels into a label feed magazine having a retractable label pusher platen behind any "old" labels thereon. A stack of "new" labels is assembled into a tray-carrier which is slightly smaller in profile than the magazine and which holds the labels in stacked relation. The loaded tray-carrier is transported to the magazine and is telescoped therewithin to advance the label stack in the tray-carrier toward the "old" labels already in the magazine. The label pusher platen is repositioned behind the rearmost label in the "new" label stack and the tray-carrier may be removed rearwardly from the magazine or left in position within the magazine. The tray-carrier is preferably made of lightweight disposable material, such as cardboard or plastic, and desirably comprises a trough having one open end and low sides. After the tray-carrier is loaded with a label stack it may be covered with a shrink film or similar pliant cover which cooperates with the trough to hold the stack in position and to keep it clean.