Method and apparatus for applying labels to articles using bottom feed chain conveyor

摘要

A method and apparatus is disclosed for applying a label onto a substantially cylindrical article by using a bottom feed conveyor unit formed of two chain loops each formed from a plurality of interconnected chain links. Substantially parallel support rods extend between the chain loops and are supported by the chain links. The support rods are spaced a distance sufficient to allow an article to rest thereon. The label drum defines an article wrapping position at a lower portion of the label drum. A thin layer, heat activated adhesive backed label is fed onto the surface of the drum so that the adhesive back faces outward from the drum. The label drum is rotated to move the label retained thereon into the article wrapping position. As the label is moved, the adhesive is heated so that the adhesive obtains a sufficient temperature to melt. A cylindrical article is conveyed substantially horizontally along a conveyor into the article wrapping position and into rotative engagement with the label retained on the label drum so as to transfer the label onto the cylindrical article by wrap-around labeling.