A tensioning control device having a first motor that applies a torque to a first end of a substrate in a first direction and a second motor that applies a torque to a second end of the substrate in a second direction that is generally opposite the first direction is disclosed. In this manner, the first motor and the second motor apply torque to the substrate in opposing directions, thereby placing the substrate in tension. In one embodiment, the first motor applies a torque to the first end of the substrate that is equal to the torque applied to the second end of the substrate by the second motor. By placing the substrate in tension in this manner, an actuator is able to incrementally move the substrate in a forward direction and a backward direction independent of the tension applied to the substrate.

An apparatus and method for the application of labels to packaging employing the application of superheated steam or other fluids in an enclosed space at atmospheric pressure are presented. Such an apparatus and method will more effectively, efficiently and safely attach shrink labeling to consumer packaged goods (CPG) with enhanced time, water and energy savings.

An apparatus and method for the application of labels to packaging employing the application of superheated steam or other fluids in an enclosed space at atmospheric pressure are presented. Such an apparatus and method will more effectively, efficiently and safely attach shrink labeling to consumer packaged goods (CPG) with enhanced time, water and energy savings.

An automatic, high speed labeling machine is provided for applying individual labels to large and variable size produce items. The label strips used are much larger and heavier than known label strips used for small produce such as apples and pears. The increased weight causes label strip overrun when the labeler is paused and also causes slippage of the label strip. A label strip deflector is provided which causes the larger and heavier label strip to fold back on itself rather than to overrun and foul the application of labels. The drive rollers are modified to eliminate slippage of the heavier label strip.

An automatic, high speed labeling machine is provided for applying individual labels to large and variable size produce items. The label strips used are much larger and heavier than known label strips used for small produce such as apples and pears. The increased weight causes label strip overrun when the labeler is paused and also causes slippage of the label strip. A label strip deflector is provided which causes the larger and heavier label strip to fold back on itself rather than to overrun and foul the application of labels. The drive rollers are modified to eliminate slippage of the heavier label strip.

An automated labeling method and apparatus includes a label web-severing mechanism and a label-applying assembly, the web-severing mechanism configured to synchronously sever a plurality of labels from a self-wound label web, and the label-applying assembly configured to synchronously apply the plurality of severed labels to a corresponding plurality of articles to be labeled.

An automated labeling method and apparatus includes a label web-severing mechanism and a label-applying assembly, the web-severing mechanism configured to synchronously sever a plurality of labels from a self-wound label web, and the label-applying assembly configured to synchronously apply the plurality of severed labels to a corresponding plurality of articles to be labeled.

A polymeric sheet having low density and comprising a low to non-existent amount of cyclic olefinic polymers (COP) and/or cyclic olefinic copolymers (COC). The overall density of the sheet may be lower than water. The sheet may be stretched and then heat shrinked onto an article. The sheet may be used as a label or package to wrap articles therewith.

A polymeric sheet having low density and comprising a low to non-existent amount of cyclic olefinic polymers (COP) and/or cyclic olefinic copolymers (COC). The overall density of the sheet may be lower than water. The sheet may be stretched and then heat shrinked onto an article. The sheet may be used as a label or package to wrap articles therewith.

Apparatuses and methods for applying a transfer material onto the surface of an article are disclosed, including apparatuses and methods of transfer printing on and/or decorating three-dimensional articles, as well as the articles printed and/or decorated thereby. In some cases, the apparatuses and methods involve providing a deposition device, such as a printing device; providing a transfer component; depositing a material onto a portion of the transfer component with the deposition device; modifying the portion of the transfer component with the transfer material thereon to conform the transfer component to at least a portion of the surface of the three-dimensional article; and transferring the transfer material onto the surface of the article.