A system combining a machine for blow-molding articles with a universal in-mold labeling apparatus. The apparatus has a frame on which turntables are mounted. Each turntable has an air rotary union, facilitating rotation of the respective turntable, and suction cups adapted to pick, hold, and release labels. The turntables deliver labels to the open molds of the machine. The apparatus also has a vertical slide positioned between the turntables. A placement head engages the turntables and moves up the vertical slide to a position in the open molds. At least one label magazine is affixed to the frame and retains the labels. Strategically placed air valves provide air and vacuum to pick, hold, and release labels. A human machine interface facilitates communication between an operator of the system and the system. Finally, a control system is provided to allow the operator to program and control both the machine and apparatus.

A system combining a machine for blow-molding articles with a universal in-mold labeling apparatus. The apparatus has a frame on which turntables are mounted. Each turntable has an air rotary union, facilitating rotation of the respective turntable, and suction cups adapted to pick, hold, and release labels. The turntables deliver labels to the open molds of the machine. The apparatus also has a vertical slide positioned between the turntables. A placement head engages the turntables and moves up the vertical slide to a position in the open molds. At least one label magazine is affixed to the frame and retains the labels. Strategically placed air valves provide air and vacuum to pick, hold, and release labels. A human machine interface facilitates communication between an operator of the system and the system. Finally, a control system is provided to allow the operator to program and control both the machine and apparatus.

One embodiment is a shrink labeler for use to shrink a shrink label onto a bottle including: a containment wall having a gas/steam inlet; and a showerhead container capable of holding the bottle in close proximity to orifices disposed therein and having an aperture through which the bottle may be introduced thereinto; wherein the gas/steam inlet is coupled to a plenum disposed between the containment wall and the showerhead container.

One embodiment is a shrink labeler for use to shrink a shrink label onto a bottle including: a containment wall having a gas/steam inlet; and a showerhead container capable of holding the bottle in close proximity to orifices disposed therein and having an aperture through which the bottle may be introduced thereinto; wherein the gas/steam inlet is coupled to a plenum disposed between the containment wall and the showerhead container.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a produce label applicator machine is retrofitted with a system such that the positive/negative air pressure at the label applicator bellows is configured to introduce and apply a bacteria or maturity inhibiting substance/gas/chemical to the surfaces of the labels as they are being applied to the produce. A source of bacteria or maturity inhibiting substance/gas/chemical is coupled to a fast-acting valve, that is in communication with the air passageway of the label dispensing arms/bellows.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a produce label applicator machine is retrofitted with a system such that the positive/negative air pressure at the label applicator bellows is configured to introduce and apply a bacteria or maturity inhibiting substance/gas/chemical to the surfaces of the labels as they are being applied to the produce. A source of bacteria or maturity inhibiting substance/gas/chemical is coupled to a fast-acting valve, that is in communication with the air passageway of the label dispensing arms/bellows.

An applicator apparatus including an applicator pad (10) and an actuator (180) for positioning the applicator pad (10) in a desired position, the applicator pad (10) being attached to the actuator (180) by an attachment member (40), wherein the attachment member (40) enables articulation between the applicator pad (10) and the actuator (180).

An applicator apparatus including an applicator pad (10) and an actuator (180) for positioning the applicator pad (10) in a desired position, the applicator pad (10) being attached to the actuator (180) by an attachment member (40), wherein the attachment member (40) enables articulation between the applicator pad (10) and the actuator (180).

Systems and methods for applying decorations from a web onto substrates are disclosed. According to some aspects, a decoration may be transferred from the web directly to a substrate based on contact of the substrate with an adhesive of a portion of the decoration while the portion of the decoration is attached to the web.

Systems and methods for applying decorations from a web onto substrates are disclosed. According to some aspects, a decoration may be transferred from the web directly to a substrate based on contact of the substrate with an adhesive of a portion of the decoration while the portion of the decoration is attached to the web.