Featuring the Model 45 Loose Loop Labeling Head with a Sato S8424 Barcode Printer the system allows printing either a small area of variable information or the entire label. An optional ribbon-save feature minimizes ribbon use for preprinted labels with a small amount of variable information. The loose loop configuration is said to allow greater print speeds and faster throughput than traditional print and apply labelers by decoupling the print and apply sequence. The printer prints into a buffer provided by a dancer arm, allowing the printer to print continuously. The label applicator then applies labels from this buffer without having to wait for a label to be printed.
An Allen Bradley Micrologix 1400 PLC with a PanelView C300 HMI make up the System controls.
With the 4580 the products, fed from a conveyor, are guided by the Vertical Product Pusher Assembly into a Starwheel Assembly pocket. The Driven Wrap Roller then applies the label around each vial at a rate of approximately 40 products/min. A Keyence IV-500CA Vision Sensor provides label-on-product inspection. Products failing inspection are discharged into a catch tray for rejected products.