Label printer applicator with tamp pad back-pressure return

摘要

A label applicator (10) of the type for separating labels (L) from a continuous carrier strip (N) and applying the labels (L) to an object positioned at the applicator, includes a tamp pad (22) for receiving the label (L) at a first position and contacting the label (L) to the object to apply the label to the object when the tamp pad (22) is at a second position. The tamp pad (22) is operably connected to a tamp pad cylinder (24) having a compressed gas inlet for extending the cylinder (24) and a compressed gas inlet for retracting the cylinder (24). A pressure transducer (62) is in communication with the compressed gas inlet for extending the cylinder and measures pressure in the cylinder (24). A controller (25) controls movement of the cylinder (24) between a retracted position for receiving the label (L) and an extended position for applying the label (L) to the object. The controller (25) receives input signals from the pressure transducer (62) for returning the tamp pad (22) from the extended position to the retracted position.