US20060005917A1 - Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060005917A1 US20060005917A1 US11/227,124 US22712405A US2006005917A1 US 20060005917 A1 US20060005917 A1 US 20060005917A1 US 22712405 A US22712405 A US 22712405A US 2006005917 A1 US2006005917 A1 US 2006005917A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- plastic foam
- foam container
- label
- cavity
- container
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D25/34—Coverings or external coatings
- B65D25/36—Coverings or external coatings formed by applying sheet material
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C44/00—Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming ; Producing porous or cellular expanded plastics articles
- B29C44/02—Shaping by internal pressure generated in the material, e.g. swelling or foaming ; Producing porous or cellular expanded plastics articles for articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
- B29C44/12—Incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or reinforcements
- B29C44/14—Incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or reinforcements the preformed part being a lining
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C63/00—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor
- B29C63/18—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor using tubular layers or sheathings
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C63/00—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor
- B29C63/22—Lining or sheathing, i.e. applying preformed layers or sheathings of plastics; Apparatus therefor using layers or sheathings having a shape adapted to the shape of the article
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
- B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
- B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
- B29C65/24—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools characterised by the means for heating the tool
- B29C65/26—Hot fluid
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/48—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using adhesives, i.e. using supplementary joining material; solvent bonding
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/78—Means for handling the parts to be joined, e.g. for making containers or hollow articles, e.g. means for handling sheets, plates, web-like materials, tubular articles, hollow articles or elements to be joined therewith; Means for discharging the joined articles from the joining apparatus
- B29C65/7841—Holding or clamping means for handling purposes
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
- B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
- B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
- B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
- B29C66/112—Single lapped joints
- B29C66/1122—Single lap to lap joints, i.e. overlap joints
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
- B29C66/51—Joining tubular articles, profiled elements or bars; Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; Joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
- B29C66/53—Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars
- B29C66/532—Joining single elements to the wall of tubular articles, hollow articles or bars
- B29C66/5324—Joining single elements to the wall of tubular articles, hollow articles or bars said single elements being substantially annular, i.e. of finite length
- B29C66/53245—Joining single elements to the wall of tubular articles, hollow articles or bars said single elements being substantially annular, i.e. of finite length said articles being hollow
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
- B29C66/63—Internally supporting the article during joining
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
- B29C66/72—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined
- B29C66/727—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined being porous, e.g. foam
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
- B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
- B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
- B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
- B29C66/91421—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature of the joining tools
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
- B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
- B29C66/919—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux characterised by specific temperature, heat or thermal flux values or ranges
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
- B65C3/00—Labelling other than flat surfaces
- B65C3/06—Affixing labels to short rigid containers
- B65C3/065—Affixing labels to short rigid containers by placing tubular labels around the container
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
- B65C3/00—Labelling other than flat surfaces
- B65C3/06—Affixing labels to short rigid containers
- B65C3/08—Affixing labels to short rigid containers to container bodies
- B65C3/14—Affixing labels to short rigid containers to container bodies the container being positioned for labelling with its centre-line vertical
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
- B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
- B65C9/02—Devices for moving articles, e.g. containers, past labelling station
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
- B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
- B65C9/20—Gluing the labels or articles
- B65C9/24—Gluing the labels or articles by heat
- B65C9/25—Gluing the labels or articles by heat by thermo-activating the glue
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C2795/00—Printing on articles made from plastics or substances in a plastic state
- B29C2795/002—Printing on articles made from plastics or substances in a plastic state before shaping
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C33/00—Moulds or cores; Details thereof or accessories therefor
- B29C33/02—Moulds or cores; Details thereof or accessories therefor with incorporated heating or cooling means
- B29C33/04—Moulds or cores; Details thereof or accessories therefor with incorporated heating or cooling means using liquids, gas or steam
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C35/00—Heating, cooling or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanising; Apparatus therefor
- B29C35/02—Heating or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanizing during moulding, e.g. in a mould
- B29C35/04—Heating or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanizing during moulding, e.g. in a mould using liquids, gas or steam
- B29C35/049—Heating or curing, e.g. crosslinking or vulcanizing during moulding, e.g. in a mould using liquids, gas or steam using steam or damp
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/48—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using adhesives, i.e. using supplementary joining material; solvent bonding
- B29C65/4805—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using adhesives, i.e. using supplementary joining material; solvent bonding characterised by the type of adhesives
- B29C65/481—Non-reactive adhesives, e.g. physically hardening adhesives
- B29C65/4815—Hot melt adhesives, e.g. thermoplastic adhesives
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/78—Means for handling the parts to be joined, e.g. for making containers or hollow articles, e.g. means for handling sheets, plates, web-like materials, tubular articles, hollow articles or elements to be joined therewith; Means for discharging the joined articles from the joining apparatus
- B29C65/7841—Holding or clamping means for handling purposes
- B29C65/7847—Holding or clamping means for handling purposes using vacuum to hold at least one of the parts to be joined
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
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- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
- B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
- B29C66/20—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint lines, e.g. of the weld lines
- B29C66/24—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint lines, e.g. of the weld lines said joint lines being closed or non-straight
- B29C66/242—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint lines, e.g. of the weld lines said joint lines being closed or non-straight said joint lines being closed, i.e. forming closed contours
- B29C66/2422—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint lines, e.g. of the weld lines said joint lines being closed or non-straight said joint lines being closed, i.e. forming closed contours being circular, oval or elliptical
- B29C66/24221—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint lines, e.g. of the weld lines said joint lines being closed or non-straight said joint lines being closed, i.e. forming closed contours being circular, oval or elliptical being circular
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- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
- B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
- B29C66/71—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the composition of the plastics material of the parts to be joined
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
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- B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
- B29C66/73—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
- B29C66/731—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined
- B29C66/7313—Density
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- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/712—Containers; Packaging elements or accessories, Packages
- B29L2031/7132—Bowls, Cups, Glasses
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/744—Labels, badges, e.g. marker sleeves
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
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- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
- Y10T156/1028—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina by bending, drawing or stretch forming sheet to assume shape of configured lamina while in contact therewith
- Y10T156/1033—Flexible sheet to cylinder lamina
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
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- Y10T156/1702—For plural parts or plural areas of single part
- Y10T156/1744—Means bringing discrete articles into assembled relationship
- Y10T156/1768—Means simultaneously conveying plural articles from a single source and serially presenting them to an assembly station
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
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- Y10T156/1744—Means bringing discrete articles into assembled relationship
- Y10T156/1768—Means simultaneously conveying plural articles from a single source and serially presenting them to an assembly station
- Y10T156/1771—Turret or rotary drum-type conveyor
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
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- Y10T156/1744—Means bringing discrete articles into assembled relationship
- Y10T156/1776—Means separating articles from bulk source
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
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- Y10T428/1352—Polymer or resin containing [i.e., natural or synthetic]
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
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- Y10T428/1352—Polymer or resin containing [i.e., natural or synthetic]
- Y10T428/1376—Foam or porous material containing
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
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- Y10T428/13—Hollow or container type article [e.g., tube, vase, etc.]
- Y10T428/1352—Polymer or resin containing [i.e., natural or synthetic]
- Y10T428/139—Open-ended, self-supporting conduit, cylinder, or tube-type article
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
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- Y10T428/13—Hollow or container type article [e.g., tube, vase, etc.]
- Y10T428/1352—Polymer or resin containing [i.e., natural or synthetic]
- Y10T428/139—Open-ended, self-supporting conduit, cylinder, or tube-type article
- Y10T428/1393—Multilayer [continuous layer]
Definitions
- This invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, such as, for example, a labeled expanded polystyrene cup. It further relates to a labeled, plastic foam container, such as a labeled expanded polystyrene cup.
- Plastic foam containers such as cups and other receptacles are widely used. Such containers can be made from different materials, including expanded polystyrene (EPS).
- EPS expanded polystyrene
- Plastic foam containers such as those made of EPS, are relatively inexpensive and have excellent insulating properties for holding both hot and cold fluids.
- Plastic foam containers typically have poor printing capabilities. That is, it is difficult to apply print or graphical designs directly to the surface of plastic foam containers, such as EPS containers.
- a method for labeling a plastic foam container includes: providing an unlabeled plastic foam container, made of, for example, EPS; positioning the plastic foam container onto a mandrel; applying a label to an exterior surface of the plastic foam container as the plastic foam container is positioned on the mandrel; positioning a cavity that corresponds substantially in shape to the outer surface of the plastic foam container relative to the mandrel onto which the container is positioned so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which the label is applied; heating the plastic foam container at the exterior surface to which the label is applied with the cavity being at a sufficient temperature and for a time sufficient to bond the label to exterior surface of the container to provide a resulting labeled, plastic foam container; and removing the resulting labeled, plastic foam container from the mandrel.
- the plastic foam container is a plastic foam cup.
- the cavity is heated to a temperature in a range of about 135° C. to about 150° C. Heating may be accomplished by providing heating elements within the cavity. Alternatively, steam may be applied to the exterior of the cavity and/or input into the cavity.
- the cavity is used to apply pressure to the exterior surface to which the label is applied.
- the cavity is formed within a metal cylinder that is positioned to move relative to the mandrel onto which the foam plastic container is positioned.
- the mandrel is provided on a rotating turret that moves the mandrel successively to: a first station at which the plastic foam container is placed on the mandrel; a second station at which the label is applied to the plastic foam container; and a third station at which the cavity is positioned to surround exterior surface of the plastic foam container to which the label is applied.
- the label is affixed with at least one of a thermal agent, a hot melt, and/or a plastic coating.
- the plastic coating may comprise one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, and any other suitable polymer or co-polymer or mixtures thereof.
- a machine for labeling plastic, foam containers comprises: a rotatable turret having a plurality of mandrels attached thereto.
- the turret is driven to rotate the mandrills to a plurality of stations, wherein the mandrels are configured to receive a plastic foam container, preferably from a cup feeder provided at a first station.
- the mandrels may be further configured to affix a label to a plastic foam container on one of the mandrels, preferably from a sleeve transfer device at a second station.
- the mandrels may be further configured to be received within a cavity that is so configured to be positioned over the outer surface of a plastic foam container that is placed on one of the mandrels, so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which the label is applied at a third station.
- the method and apparatus according to the invention are used to manufacture labeled, plastic foam containers, wherein the label has good printing characteristics.
- the label is formed of at least one of paper, aluminum or plastic film, and mixtures thereof.
- the person having ordinary skill in the art would understand the types of suitable materials for use in the label for the labeled foam containers according to the present invention.
- a plastic foam container made according to a method or machine of the invention, prior to labeling has relatively low density and stiffness, but after application of the label, has an overall stiffness and density that is comparable to similarly sized conventional foam containers.
- the plastic foam container, prior to application of the label has a density of less than 0.8 g/cm 3 . More preferably, the plastic foam container, prior to application of the label, has a density in the range of about 0.041 to 0.076 g/cm 3 .
- the resulting labeled, plastic foam container has an overall density in the range of 0.05720-0.1888 g/cm 3 .
- a labeled plastic foam container has an inner plastic foam portion having a density of less than 0.8 g/cm 3 , and an outer sleeve that adheres to an outer surface of said inner plastic foam portion.
- the outer sleeve has an outwardly facing surface to which is applied print or graphical designs, the outer sleeve providing stiffness to the inner portion.
- the label may be applied made according to a method or machine of the invention, prior to labeling, has relatively low density and stiffness, but after application of the label, has an overall stiffness and density that is comparable to similarly sized conventional foam containers.
- the inner plastic foam portion defines a cup shape with a lip portion, bottom portion, and sidewall.
- the inner plastic foam portion comprises EPS.
- the stiffness obtained by the combination of plastic foam and label materials permits the use of substantially less EPS resin in comparison with a standard plastic foam container of comparable (or even less) volume capacity.
- a lower resin content such as EPS resin
- a sleeve providing improved rigidity results in a container having a significantly lower cost than prior containers made out of paper and/or plastic.
- the outer sleeve dramatically improves printability in comparison to standard foam containers. This may result in particular by using a pre-printed label.
- the container according to the invention further provides comparable or improved stiffness, barrier properties and insulation in comparison with comparable sized-containers.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a machine for labeling a plastic foam container in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention showing the location of the mandrels on the turret.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment, illustrating a device having a heated cavity positioned above a mandrel.
- FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of a labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a sleeve transfer device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a labeled, plastic foam container made in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a labeled plastic foam container, wherein the foam wall of the container has reduced wall thickness.
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a labeled plastic foam container, wherein the foam wall of the container has reduced density.
- FIG. 10 is an illustrative cross-sectional view of a standard foam container with optional label.
- FIGS. 11A-11C are graphical, comparative representation of the densities of plastic foam containers and labeled plastic foam containers.
- FIGS. 12A-12H are images of containers according to the present invention having various graphical indicia printed thereon.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a machine 10 for forming a labeled plastic foam container 15 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention.
- the machine 10 includes a turret 12 having a plurality of mandrels 14 attached thereto.
- Each mandrel 14 has a tapered shape and is configured to receive a plastic foam container 17 , which is preferably an EPS cup.
- the turret 12 of this example is driven by a shaft 16 , which is operatively connected to an index drive 18 , of a type conventionally known in the art.
- the index drive 18 rotates the turret 12 by 90 degrees so as to precisely align the mandrels 14 at each of the stations 20 , 22 , 24 , 26 as illustrated in FIG. 2 , which illustrates a top view of the labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention showing the location of the mandrels 14 on the turret 12 . While four stations are shown, it will be appreciated that a any number of stations may be provided in the machine 10 .
- unlabeled plastic foam containers 17 are placed onto the mandrels 14 from the cup dispensing apparatus 19 via an actuator 28 .
- the cup dispensing apparatus may include a rotating turret that automatically loads the unlabeled plastic foam containers 17 onto the mandrels 14 .
- the label 13 is applied to the plastic foam container 17 as discussed in more detail below.
- the label 13 is bonded to the plastic foam container 17 to form the labeled plastic foam container 15 .
- the labeled plastic foam container 15 is removed from the mandrel 14 at a fourth station 26 .
- a work piece 30 formed as a metal cylinder.
- the work piece 30 attaches to a vertical shaft 31 which is driven pneumatically, according to techniques known in the art, to raise and lower as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3 .
- the work piece 30 has a cavity or pocket 32 formed within it. In this embodiment, the open end of the cavity faces downward toward the turret 12 .
- the cavity or pocket 32 has a tapered shape, configured to conform to the outer dimensions of a plastic foam container disposed on a mandrel 14 .
- the cavity or pocket 32 is configured in conformance with the shape of the mandrels 14 .
- a pneumatic piston drives the cavity vertically (upward and downward in this view) toward an opposing mandrel 14 disposed beneath the cavity 32 .
- the cylindrically-shaped work piece 30 that includes the cavity 32 is heated so that it can be used to bond a label to a plastic foam container disposed on a the mandrel 14 .
- the work piece 30 is connected to a steam inlet line 34 .
- Steam is fed through the steam inlet line 34 to the interior 36 of the cylindrically-shaped piece 30 , by which the inner surface 35 of the cavity 32 may be rapidly heated.
- Application of steam may be controlled automatically for example, with a controller actuated valve (not shown) and steam condensate is removed via steam condensate line 38 . While it has been found that steam heating provides many advantages, particularly rapid heating, other techniques for heating the cavity are possible, such as electric or gas heaters, or other heating elements.
- the work piece 30 may be configured to be driven downward to apply pressure to a plastic foam container 17 and label 13 disposed on the mandrel 14 .
- Pressure may be applied mechanically or by air pressure. It has been found that application of pressure promotes quicker and more homogenous bonding between the label 13 and the foam container 17 . Further, it has been found that heat transfer to bond containers to the labels 13 is improved by using air pressure or mechanical pressure inside the pocket.
- labeled foam containers 15 are removed from the turret 14 . Removal may be accomplished by techniques well known in the art, such as, for example, suction.
- the sleeve transfer device 40 inserts the label 13 onto the unlabeled plastic foam cup 17 that has already been placed on the mandrel 14 at the first station 20 .
- the mechanism illustrated in the figure is conformed for a rotating table 44 driven from an index device 45 having, for example, four positions.
- the index device 45 is driven by an electric drive 46 which may include a gear box 47 .
- the index device 45 may have four positions.
- unfolded labels 13 are wrapped in a mandrel 42 by two cone shaped revolving wings 41 , 43 .
- the sleeve is held to the mandrel 42 by a vacuum and the seam of the label 13 is formed.
- the rotating table 44 is then moved to the 180° position for cooling the labels 13 and then moved to the 270° position where vacuum is turned off and the label 13 is released from the mandrel 42 to the transfer pocket 48 horizontally.
- the label 13 is affixed to the transfer pocket 48 by vacuum and moved by a pneumatic linear cylinder 51 to rotate the label 13 90° so as to position the label 13 over the mandrel 14 at the second station 22 for applying the label 13 to the foam container 17 .
- the vacuum in the transfer pocket 48 is turned off to deliver the label 13 to the foam container 17 in the second station 22 .
- an unlabeled plastic foam cup preferably made of EPS
- the turret 12 indexes by 90 degrees, forwarding the unlabeled container 17 to the second station 22 , at which a label 13 is applied to an exterior surface of the plastic foam container 17 to form the labeled foam container 15 .
- the turret 12 indexes an additional 90 degrees, forwarding the plastic foam container with the unbonded label 13 to the third station 24 .
- the heated cavity 32 is lowered over the mandrel 14 onto which the foamed container 17 is positioned, so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which the label 13 is applied.
- the cavity 32 heats the plastic foam container 17 at the exterior surface to which the label 13 is applied, at a temperature and a time sufficient to bond the label to exterior surface of the foamed container 17 to form the labeled foam container 15 .
- the resulting labeled, plastic foam container 15 is indexed to the fourth station 26 , at which it is removed from the turret 12 and the mandrel 14 .
- the cavity 32 is heated to a temperature in a range of about 135° C. to about 150° C. It has been found that heating above 170° C. is not preferred, as higher temperatures tend deform the container shape and geometry, although temperature ranges will vary depending on the composition of the container, as well as the label and any bonding agent that are used.
- the label 13 is affixed with at least one of a thermal agent, a hot melt, and a plastic coating.
- the plastic coating may comprise one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, and any other suitable polymer or co-polymer or mixtures thereof.
- Various labels 13 may be used with the invention. These include, for example, polypropylene and polyethylene films, paper, coated papers, aluminum or plastic film, and metallic laminations. Preferably, the label has good printing characteristics to provide improved aesthetic appearance.
- the person having ordinary skill in the art would understand the types of suitable materials for use in the label for the labeled foam containers according to the present invention.
- Embodiments have been constructed by modification of conventional machines used to manufacture paper cups. Such machines are particularly suited for high-speed manufacturing, in which a paper cut-out is wrapped to forms the sides of a container and a bottom portion is formed. The container is then disposed in a cavity with its upper portion exposed so the rim may be formed. Conventionally, however, the cavity used for forming the rim of a paper cup, is not heated.
- the optimal amount of pressure differs depending on, for example, the size of the cup/container needed to be labeled. Further, the amount of pressure is limited to a point where the cup/container can be partially collapsed and deformed.
- the present invention is better suited to applying a label to a greater surface area. This is particularly true for containers, such as cups, having conical surfaces.
- the present invention provides improved bonding in comparison with conventional labeling systems, when applied to EPS cups.
- the cups made with the invention exhibit good bonding characteristics.
- the invention ma be used to manufacture a labeled foam cup with excellent aesthetic appearance, while maintaining acceptable cost, stiffness, and barrier characteristics.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a container according to the invention, which is a cup 200 in this particular example.
- the cup 200 comprises an inner portion 204 made of a plastic foam, such as EPS.
- the inner portion 204 defines the shape of the cup 200 , including a lip 210 , bottom 212 and sidewall 215 .
- Affixed to the inner portion 214 is an outer sleeve 216 , which in this particular example comprises a paper label with stylized indicia “Café” 218
- a cup is shown, it will be appreciated that other types of containers, such as soup bowls, cartons or other containers, may also be provided.
- the paper label 216 has excellent printability in comparison with standard foam products. While a paper label is illustrated in this example, the sleeve according to the invention may comprise other suitable materials known in the art, such as metal foils or plastic films. Preferably, containers according to the invention utilize paper and/or plastic films of basis weights that range: 17.5 g/m 2 up to 200 g/m 2 .
- the label 216 is bonded to the inner foam portion 214 using a thermo-adhesive according to standard techniques known in the art.
- Other bonding agents may be used, including thermal activated agents, hot melts, plastic coatings (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and other polymers) and other agents known in the art. It is noted that the particular bonding agent used may increase the overall stiffness and performance of the container.
- the amount of plastic resin used in the foam portion to which a label is affixed is significantly less than standard, comparably sized and shaped plastic foam containers. This is achieved by lowering the density of the foam portion to which the label is affixed.
- the foam portion to which the label is affixed may have smaller thickness than standard, comparably sized and shaped plastic foam containers.
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cup according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the plastic foam wall portion 215 to which the label 216 is affixed has a thickness W 1 . It also has a density ⁇ . In this example, W 1 is much thinner than the thickness W 3 of the wall of a conventional foam cup, such as shown in FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cup according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the plastic foam wall portion 215 ′ has a thickness W 2 that is comparable to the thickness W 3 of a standard foam cup, such as shown in FIG. 10 .
- the cup of FIG. 9 has a density ⁇ 2 that is less than the density ⁇ 3 of a standard foam cup, such as shown in FIG. 10 .
- a thin walled cup and a low density foam cup are shown as separate embodiments, it should be understood that a cup according to the invention may combine these features.
- FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a standard foam cup.
- the foam cup of FIG. 10 has a similar capacity and inner shape as the cups of FIGS. 8 and 9 .
- Affixed to the walls is an optional label 216 .
- the wall 214 of the standard foam cup has a thickness W 2 and a density ⁇ 2 .
- containers according to the invention utilizes less resin than a comparably sized and shaped standard foam container.
- thinner or less dense foam containers with no outer sleeve have significantly reduced overall rigidity. Thinner or less dense foam containers are also more susceptible to permeation by materials in the container. It has been found, however, that the use of appropriate outer sleeve compensates for the reduction in rigidity and improves barrier properties.
- suitable material such as paper
- FIGS. 12A-12H illustrate cups having molded foam inner portions and various types of labels.
- FIG. 12A illustrates a plastic foam cup with 300 g/m 2 paper or board label.
- FIG. 12B illustrates a plastic foam cup with a polypropylene label.
- FIG. 12C illustrates a plastic foam soup container with couche (type of paper) and polyethylene 1 sided coated paper label.
- FIG. 12D illustrates a plastic foam cup with paper bonded with a first thermal agent.
- FIG. 12E illustrates a plastic foam cup with a paper label, varnish and a thermal agent.
- FIG. 12F illustrates a plastic foam cup with a polypropylene film label and adhesive.
- FIGS. 12G and 12H illustrate other samples according to the present invention.
- the present invention provide labeled containers/cups having the following advantages: cost efficiency; high quality printing capabilities; sufficient stiffness; insulation and barrier properties; minimum amount of raw materials; and efficient stacking.
- the present invention provides substantial cost savings through the use of lower amounts of resin in comparison with standard foam containers that provide comparable performance.
Abstract
A method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, such as a labeled EPS cup uses a heated pocket to thermally bond a label to a plastic cup. Also described is a labeled plastic foam container, such as a labeled EPS cup, having high quality printing capabilities, sufficient stiffness, acceptable insulation and barrier properties and reduced production cost.
Description
- This application is a continuation of Application PCT/IB2004/003517, filed Oct. 1, 2004, which application claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. application Ser. No. 60/507,944, filed Oct. 3, 2003, U.S. application Ser. No. 60/510,519, filed Oct. 14, 2003. The respective disclosures of each of these related application are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
- This invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, such as, for example, a labeled expanded polystyrene cup. It further relates to a labeled, plastic foam container, such as a labeled expanded polystyrene cup.
- Plastic foam containers, such as cups and other receptacles are widely used. Such containers can be made from different materials, including expanded polystyrene (EPS). Plastic foam containers, such as those made of EPS, are relatively inexpensive and have excellent insulating properties for holding both hot and cold fluids. Plastic foam containers, however, typically have poor printing capabilities. That is, it is difficult to apply print or graphical designs directly to the surface of plastic foam containers, such as EPS containers.
- In order to improve aesthetics and other properties, it is desirable to apply a label to a plastic foam container. Traditional labeling devices suffer from certain limitations. For example, it is often complicated to apply labels to foam containers with conical surfaces, such as cups. It is particularly difficult to cover substantially the entire outer surface of such a container, such as the entire outer wall of a cup. It is also difficult to achieve proper and consistent bonding between the label and the cup.
- It is therefore desirable to provide a process for forming a labeled plastic foam container in which: (1) labels are applied at sufficiently high speed; and (2) good bonding is obtained between the container and the label. In the latter case improving the bonding between the foam container and the label includes avoiding poor bonding, for example, from formation of air bubbles or loose edges; avoiding loose labels wrapped to the labeled foam container; and avoiding deformation on the geometries of the labeled foam container.
- According to one aspect of the invention, a method for labeling a plastic foam container, includes: providing an unlabeled plastic foam container, made of, for example, EPS; positioning the plastic foam container onto a mandrel; applying a label to an exterior surface of the plastic foam container as the plastic foam container is positioned on the mandrel; positioning a cavity that corresponds substantially in shape to the outer surface of the plastic foam container relative to the mandrel onto which the container is positioned so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which the label is applied; heating the plastic foam container at the exterior surface to which the label is applied with the cavity being at a sufficient temperature and for a time sufficient to bond the label to exterior surface of the container to provide a resulting labeled, plastic foam container; and removing the resulting labeled, plastic foam container from the mandrel. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic foam container is a plastic foam cup.
- Preferably, the cavity is heated to a temperature in a range of about 135° C. to about 150° C. Heating may be accomplished by providing heating elements within the cavity. Alternatively, steam may be applied to the exterior of the cavity and/or input into the cavity.
- According another feature of the invention, the cavity is used to apply pressure to the exterior surface to which the label is applied.
- According to yet another feature of the invention, the cavity is formed within a metal cylinder that is positioned to move relative to the mandrel onto which the foam plastic container is positioned.
- According to still another feature of the invention, the mandrel is provided on a rotating turret that moves the mandrel successively to: a first station at which the plastic foam container is placed on the mandrel; a second station at which the label is applied to the plastic foam container; and a third station at which the cavity is positioned to surround exterior surface of the plastic foam container to which the label is applied.
- According to another feature of the invention, the label is affixed with at least one of a thermal agent, a hot melt, and/or a plastic coating. The plastic coating may comprise one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, and any other suitable polymer or co-polymer or mixtures thereof.
- According to another aspect of the invention, a machine for labeling plastic, foam containers comprises: a rotatable turret having a plurality of mandrels attached thereto. The turret is driven to rotate the mandrills to a plurality of stations, wherein the mandrels are configured to receive a plastic foam container, preferably from a cup feeder provided at a first station. The mandrels may be further configured to affix a label to a plastic foam container on one of the mandrels, preferably from a sleeve transfer device at a second station. The mandrels may be further configured to be received within a cavity that is so configured to be positioned over the outer surface of a plastic foam container that is placed on one of the mandrels, so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which the label is applied at a third station.
- According to another aspect of the invention, the method and apparatus according to the invention are used to manufacture labeled, plastic foam containers, wherein the label has good printing characteristics. Preferably, the label is formed of at least one of paper, aluminum or plastic film, and mixtures thereof. The person having ordinary skill in the art would understand the types of suitable materials for use in the label for the labeled foam containers according to the present invention.
- According to a feature of the invention, a plastic foam container made according to a method or machine of the invention, prior to labeling, has relatively low density and stiffness, but after application of the label, has an overall stiffness and density that is comparable to similarly sized conventional foam containers. Preferably, the plastic foam container, prior to application of the label, has a density of less than 0.8 g/cm3. More preferably, the plastic foam container, prior to application of the label, has a density in the range of about 0.041 to 0.076 g/cm3. Preferably, the resulting labeled, plastic foam container has an overall density in the range of 0.05720-0.1888 g/cm3.
- According to another aspect of the invention, a labeled plastic foam container has an inner plastic foam portion having a density of less than 0.8 g/cm3, and an outer sleeve that adheres to an outer surface of said inner plastic foam portion. The outer sleeve has an outwardly facing surface to which is applied print or graphical designs, the outer sleeve providing stiffness to the inner portion. The label may be applied made according to a method or machine of the invention, prior to labeling, has relatively low density and stiffness, but after application of the label, has an overall stiffness and density that is comparable to similarly sized conventional foam containers.
- According to a feature of the invention, the inner plastic foam portion defines a cup shape with a lip portion, bottom portion, and sidewall. Preferably, the inner plastic foam portion comprises EPS.
- The stiffness obtained by the combination of plastic foam and label materials permits the use of substantially less EPS resin in comparison with a standard plastic foam container of comparable (or even less) volume capacity. The particular combination of a lower resin content, such as EPS resin, combined with a sleeve providing improved rigidity results in a container having a significantly lower cost than prior containers made out of paper and/or plastic. The outer sleeve dramatically improves printability in comparison to standard foam containers. This may result in particular by using a pre-printed label. Further, the container according to the invention further provides comparable or improved stiffness, barrier properties and insulation in comparison with comparable sized-containers.
- Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description.
- In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a machine for labeling a plastic foam container in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention showing the location of the mandrels on the turret. -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment, illustrating a device having a heated cavity positioned above a mandrel. -
FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of a labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a sleeve transfer device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a labeled, plastic foam container made in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a labeled plastic foam container, wherein the foam wall of the container has reduced wall thickness. -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a labeled plastic foam container, wherein the foam wall of the container has reduced density. -
FIG. 10 is an illustrative cross-sectional view of a standard foam container with optional label. -
FIGS. 11A-11C are graphical, comparative representation of the densities of plastic foam containers and labeled plastic foam containers. -
FIGS. 12A-12H are images of containers according to the present invention having various graphical indicia printed thereon. - The following describes machines for labeling plastic foam containers, and a process for using such machines, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. It should be appreciated, however, that the following description is intended to be merely exemplary of the various features of the invention and should not limit the proper scope of the appended claims.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of amachine 10 for forming a labeledplastic foam container 15 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, themachine 10 includes aturret 12 having a plurality ofmandrels 14 attached thereto. Eachmandrel 14 has a tapered shape and is configured to receive aplastic foam container 17, which is preferably an EPS cup. - The
turret 12 of this example is driven by ashaft 16, which is operatively connected to anindex drive 18, of a type conventionally known in the art. Theindex drive 18 rotates theturret 12 by 90 degrees so as to precisely align themandrels 14 at each of thestations FIG. 2 , which illustrates a top view of the labeling machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention showing the location of themandrels 14 on theturret 12. While four stations are shown, it will be appreciated that a any number of stations may be provided in themachine 10. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , at afirst station 20 unlabeledplastic foam containers 17 are placed onto themandrels 14 from thecup dispensing apparatus 19 via anactuator 28. The cup dispensing apparatus may include a rotating turret that automatically loads the unlabeledplastic foam containers 17 onto themandrels 14. At asecond station 22, thelabel 13 is applied to theplastic foam container 17 as discussed in more detail below. At athird station 24, thelabel 13 is bonded to theplastic foam container 17 to form the labeledplastic foam container 15. The labeledplastic foam container 15 is removed from themandrel 14 at afourth station 26. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 3 . At athird station 24, there is provided awork piece 30, formed as a metal cylinder. Thework piece 30 attaches to avertical shaft 31 which is driven pneumatically, according to techniques known in the art, to raise and lower as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3 . In accordance with one feature of the invention, thework piece 30 has a cavity orpocket 32 formed within it. In this embodiment, the open end of the cavity faces downward toward theturret 12. - The cavity or
pocket 32 has a tapered shape, configured to conform to the outer dimensions of a plastic foam container disposed on amandrel 14. The cavity orpocket 32 is configured in conformance with the shape of themandrels 14. As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3 , a pneumatic piston drives the cavity vertically (upward and downward in this view) toward an opposingmandrel 14 disposed beneath thecavity 32. - According to a feature of the invention, the cylindrically-shaped
work piece 30 that includes thecavity 32 is heated so that it can be used to bond a label to a plastic foam container disposed on a themandrel 14. In this example, thework piece 30 is connected to asteam inlet line 34. Steam is fed through thesteam inlet line 34 to the interior 36 of the cylindrically-shapedpiece 30, by which theinner surface 35 of thecavity 32 may be rapidly heated. Application of steam may be controlled automatically for example, with a controller actuated valve (not shown) and steam condensate is removed viasteam condensate line 38. While it has been found that steam heating provides many advantages, particularly rapid heating, other techniques for heating the cavity are possible, such as electric or gas heaters, or other heating elements. Such devices can be adapted to achieve similar results but will, of course, typically involve different energy costs and yields. It has been found that the use of steam is particularly advantageous for use with EPS containers due to its efficiency. Further, steam is typically used in manufacturing EPS containers and is therefore readily available. - Optionally, the
work piece 30 may be configured to be driven downward to apply pressure to aplastic foam container 17 andlabel 13 disposed on themandrel 14. Pressure may be applied mechanically or by air pressure. It has been found that application of pressure promotes quicker and more homogenous bonding between thelabel 13 and thefoam container 17. Further, it has been found that heat transfer to bond containers to thelabels 13 is improved by using air pressure or mechanical pressure inside the pocket. - At a
fourth station 26, labeledfoam containers 15 are removed from theturret 14. Removal may be accomplished by techniques well known in the art, such as, for example, suction. - Reference is now made to
FIGS. 4, 5 and 6. Thesleeve transfer device 40 inserts thelabel 13 onto the unlabeledplastic foam cup 17 that has already been placed on themandrel 14 at thefirst station 20. The mechanism illustrated in the figure is conformed for a rotating table 44 driven from anindex device 45 having, for example, four positions. Theindex device 45 is driven by anelectric drive 46 which may include agear box 47. Theindex device 45 may have four positions. At the 90° position, unfoldedlabels 13 are wrapped in amandrel 42 by two cone shaped revolvingwings mandrel 42 by a vacuum and the seam of thelabel 13 is formed. The rotating table 44 is then moved to the 180° position for cooling thelabels 13 and then moved to the 270° position where vacuum is turned off and thelabel 13 is released from themandrel 42 to thetransfer pocket 48 horizontally. Thelabel 13 is affixed to thetransfer pocket 48 by vacuum and moved by a pneumaticlinear cylinder 51 to rotate thelabel 13 90° so as to position thelabel 13 over themandrel 14 at thesecond station 22 for applying thelabel 13 to thefoam container 17. The vacuum in thetransfer pocket 48 is turned off to deliver thelabel 13 to thefoam container 17 in thesecond station 22. - In operation, an unlabeled plastic foam cup, preferably made of EPS, is placed on a
mandrel 14 at thefirst station 20. Theturret 12 indexes by 90 degrees, forwarding theunlabeled container 17 to thesecond station 22, at which alabel 13 is applied to an exterior surface of theplastic foam container 17 to form the labeledfoam container 15. Theturret 12 indexes an additional 90 degrees, forwarding the plastic foam container with theunbonded label 13 to thethird station 24. At the third station, theheated cavity 32 is lowered over themandrel 14 onto which the foamedcontainer 17 is positioned, so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which thelabel 13 is applied. Thecavity 32 heats theplastic foam container 17 at the exterior surface to which thelabel 13 is applied, at a temperature and a time sufficient to bond the label to exterior surface of the foamedcontainer 17 to form the labeledfoam container 15. The resulting labeled,plastic foam container 15 is indexed to thefourth station 26, at which it is removed from theturret 12 and themandrel 14. - Preferably, the
cavity 32 is heated to a temperature in a range of about 135° C. to about 150° C. It has been found that heating above 170° C. is not preferred, as higher temperatures tend deform the container shape and geometry, although temperature ranges will vary depending on the composition of the container, as well as the label and any bonding agent that are used. - Preferably, the
label 13 is affixed with at least one of a thermal agent, a hot melt, and a plastic coating. The plastic coating may comprise one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, and any other suitable polymer or co-polymer or mixtures thereof. -
Various labels 13 may be used with the invention. These include, for example, polypropylene and polyethylene films, paper, coated papers, aluminum or plastic film, and metallic laminations. Preferably, the label has good printing characteristics to provide improved aesthetic appearance. The person having ordinary skill in the art would understand the types of suitable materials for use in the label for the labeled foam containers according to the present invention. - It will be appreciated that systems according to the invention may be modified in many ways. For example, while the
machine 10 has been described with reference to the above figures with the mandrels being disposed horizontally with respect to their longitudinal axes, i.e., in a vertical orientation. It should be understood that the machine can be configured such that the mandrels may be disposed vertically with respect to their longitudinal axes, i.e., in a horizontal orientation. - One advantage to the invention is its speed and accuracy. Embodiments have been constructed by modification of conventional machines used to manufacture paper cups. Such machines are particularly suited for high-speed manufacturing, in which a paper cut-out is wrapped to forms the sides of a container and a bottom portion is formed. The container is then disposed in a cavity with its upper portion exposed so the rim may be formed. Conventionally, however, the cavity used for forming the rim of a paper cup, is not heated.
- As noted above, application of air or mechanical pressure enhances heat transfer, thus increasing machine and process speed. The optimal amount of pressure differs depending on, for example, the size of the cup/container needed to be labeled. Further, the amount of pressure is limited to a point where the cup/container can be partially collapsed and deformed.
- It has been found that, in comparison with conventional labeling machines, the present invention is better suited to applying a label to a greater surface area. This is particularly true for containers, such as cups, having conical surfaces.
- More particularly, trials conducted with the present invention have demonstrated that the present invention provides improved bonding in comparison with conventional labeling systems, when applied to EPS cups. In particular, the cups made with the invention exhibit good bonding characteristics.
- According to a preferred feature, the invention ma be used to manufacture a labeled foam cup with excellent aesthetic appearance, while maintaining acceptable cost, stiffness, and barrier characteristics.
-
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a container according to the invention, which is acup 200 in this particular example. Thecup 200 comprises aninner portion 204 made of a plastic foam, such as EPS. Theinner portion 204 defines the shape of thecup 200, including alip 210, bottom 212 andsidewall 215. Affixed to theinner portion 214 is anouter sleeve 216, which in this particular example comprises a paper label with stylized indicia “Café” 218 Although a cup is shown, it will be appreciated that other types of containers, such as soup bowls, cartons or other containers, may also be provided. - The
paper label 216 has excellent printability in comparison with standard foam products. While a paper label is illustrated in this example, the sleeve according to the invention may comprise other suitable materials known in the art, such as metal foils or plastic films. Preferably, containers according to the invention utilize paper and/or plastic films of basis weights that range: 17.5 g/m2 up to 200 g/m2. - The
label 216 is bonded to theinner foam portion 214 using a thermo-adhesive according to standard techniques known in the art. Other bonding agents may be used, including thermal activated agents, hot melts, plastic coatings (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and other polymers) and other agents known in the art. It is noted that the particular bonding agent used may increase the overall stiffness and performance of the container. - According to a feature of the invention that the amount of plastic resin used in the foam portion to which a label is affixed is significantly less than standard, comparably sized and shaped plastic foam containers. This is achieved by lowering the density of the foam portion to which the label is affixed. Alternatively, the foam portion to which the label is affixed may have smaller thickness than standard, comparably sized and shaped plastic foam containers.
-
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cup according to an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the plasticfoam wall portion 215 to which thelabel 216 is affixed has a thickness W1. It also has a density ρ. In this example, W1 is much thinner than the thickness W3 of the wall of a conventional foam cup, such as shown inFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cup according to another embodiment of the invention. In this example, the plasticfoam wall portion 215′ has a thickness W2 that is comparable to the thickness W3 of a standard foam cup, such as shown inFIG. 10 . However the cup ofFIG. 9 has a density ρ2 that is less than the density ρ3 of a standard foam cup, such as shown inFIG. 10 . - Although a thin walled cup and a low density foam cup are shown as separate embodiments, it should be understood that a cup according to the invention may combine these features.
-
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a standard foam cup. The foam cup ofFIG. 10 has a similar capacity and inner shape as the cups ofFIGS. 8 and 9 . Affixed to the walls is anoptional label 216. Thewall 214 of the standard foam cup has a thickness W2 and a density ρ2. - Due to the smaller relative density and/or the smaller relative thickness, of the portion that is covered by the outer sleeve, containers according to the invention utilizes less resin than a comparably sized and shaped standard foam container.
- Experimentally, comparisons have been performed between various containers according to the invention and comparable conventional containers. It has been found that an effective range of densities for the wall of the inner foam portion of a labeled, molded foam containers according to the invention (having capacities of from 4 ounces to 175 ounces) is less than about 0.08 g/cm3, or more preferably, about 0.0410 to 0.0759 g/cm3. In comparison, a 10 ounce cup made by Autonational, identified above, has a density of about 0.1200-0.1460 g/cm3, as measured with the label removed. Accordingly, even relatively larger containers according to the present invention have a substantially lower foam density and thus require a substantially lower amount of foam resin.
- As shown below, thinner or less dense foam containers with no outer sleeve have significantly reduced overall rigidity. Thinner or less dense foam containers are also more susceptible to permeation by materials in the container. It has been found, however, that the use of appropriate outer sleeve compensates for the reduction in rigidity and improves barrier properties. The provision of a sleeve comprised of suitable material, such as paper, provides for improved printability.
- Experiments have been performed with various containers that include a molded foam portion, over which a label or sleeve is applied. As noted above, it has been found that containers with acceptable properties have an inner foam portion (i.e., the without the label or sleeve) having densities in the range of 0.0410-0.0579 g/cm3. By provision of the label sleeve, the finished containers overall have densities of 0.0572-0.1888 g/cm3, which are comparable to standard foam cups that are more expensive due to their use of more resin. These measurements were made on a range of containers with varying capacity using a standard density measurement kit YDK 01LP sold by Sartorious AG. The results are depicted in
FIGS. 11A-11C . - As noted above, different types of labels may be applied in connection with containers according to the invention. By way of illustration,
FIGS. 12A-12H illustrate cups having molded foam inner portions and various types of labels.FIG. 12A illustrates a plastic foam cup with 300 g/m2 paper or board label.FIG. 12B illustrates a plastic foam cup with a polypropylene label.FIG. 12C illustrates a plastic foam soup container with couche (type of paper) andpolyethylene 1 sided coated paper label.FIG. 12D illustrates a plastic foam cup with paper bonded with a first thermal agent.FIG. 12E illustrates a plastic foam cup with a paper label, varnish and a thermal agent.FIG. 12F illustrates a plastic foam cup with a polypropylene film label and adhesive.FIGS. 12G and 12H illustrate other samples according to the present invention. - From the foregoing description, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention provide labeled containers/cups having the following advantages: cost efficiency; high quality printing capabilities; sufficient stiffness; insulation and barrier properties; minimum amount of raw materials; and efficient stacking. In particular the present invention provides substantial cost savings through the use of lower amounts of resin in comparison with standard foam containers that provide comparable performance.
- Although the invention has been described in reference to specific embodiments and examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be embodied in other forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The presently disclosed embodiments should therefore be considered in all respects illustrative and not restrictive.
Claims (32)
1. A method for labeling a plastic foam container comprising:
automatically positioning an unlabeled, preformed plastic foam container onto a mandrel at a first station;
applying a label to an exterior surface of the plastic foam container at a second station;
directly heating a work piece that defines a cavity that corresponds substantially in shape to the outer surface of the plastic foam container;
positioning the work piece so that the cavity substantially surrounds the exterior surface of said plastic foam container to which the label is applied at a third station;
directly heating the exterior surface of the plastic foam container to which the label is applied with said cavity as the plastic foam container is disposed within the cavity, at a temperature and a time sufficient to bond the label to exterior surface of the container to provide a resulting labeled, plastic foam container; and
removing the resulting labeled, plastic foam container from the mandrel.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein automatically positioning an unlabeled, preformed plastic foam container includes automatically loading said unlabeled, preformed plastic foam containers with an indexing turrent.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cavity is heated to a temperature in a range of about 135° C. to about 150° C.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cavity is heated with heating elements that are in thermal contact with the surface of the cavity.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the cavity is heated by applying steam to the cavity.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising applying pressure to the exterior surface to which the label is applied with the cavity.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the work piece comprises a metal cylinder that is positioned to move relative to the mandrel onto which the cup is positioned.
8. The method of claim I, wherein the mandrel is provided on a rotating turret that moves the mandrel successively to the first station at which the plastic foam container is placed on the mandrel, the second station at which the label is applied to the plastic foam container, and the third station at which the cavity is positioned to surround exterior surface of the plastic foam container to which the label is applied.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the work piece comprises a metal cylinder that is positioned at the third station to move relative to the mandrel onto which the plastic foam container is positioned.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the label is affixed to said plastic foam container with at least one of a thermal agent, a hot melt, or a plastic coating.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the plastic coating comprises at least one of polyethylene or polypropylene.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plastic foam container, prior to application of the label, has a density of less than 0.8 g/cm3.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the plastic foam container, prior to application of the label, has a density in the range of about 0.041 to 0.076 g/cm3.
14. The method of claim 12 , wherein the resulting labeled, plastic foam container has an overall density in the range of 0.05720-0.1888 g/cm3.
15. The method of claim 1 , wherein the label comprises at least one of paper, aluminum or plastic film.
16. The method of claim 1 , wherein said plastic foam container is a cup.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the plastic foam cup comprises EPS.
18. A labeled, plastic foam container manufactured according to the method of claim 1 .
19. An apparatus for labeling a plastic foam container comprising:
means for automatically positioning a preformed plastic foam container onto a mandrel at a first station;
means for applying a label to an exterior surface of the plastic foam container at a second station;
a work piece that defines a cavity, said work piece being movable relative to the mandrel at a third station so that the cavity substantially surrounds and heats the plastic foam container at the exterior surface to which the label is applied, wherein said work piece is configured to be directly heated to a temperature sufficient to bond the label to exterior surface of the container to provide a resulting labeled, plastic foam container; and
means for removing the resulting labeled, plastic foam container from the mandrel.
20. The method of claim 1 , wherein the means for automatically positioning an unlabeled, preformed plastic foam container includes an indexing turret configured to automatically load said unlabeled, preformed plastic foam containers at the first station.
21. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the work piece comprises a metal cylinder that is adapted to move relative to the mandrel onto which the container is positioned when the mandrel is at the third station.
22. A machine for labeling plastic, foam containers comprising:
a rotatable turret having a plurality of mandrels attached thereto, the turret being driven to rotate the mandrills to a plurality of stations, wherein the mandrels are configured to receive a plastic foam container;
a container feeder provided at a first station to feed an unlabeled, preformed plastic foam container onto a mandrel,
a sleeve transfer device provided at a second station being configured to wrap and affix a label to a plastic foam container on one of the mandrels; and
a work piece defining a cavity provided at a third station, the cavity being configured to be positioned over the outer surface of a plastic foam container on one of the mandrels, so as to substantially surround the exterior surface to which the label is applied, wherein the cavity is configured to be directly heated to a temperature sufficient to bond the label to the plastic foam container.
23. The machine of claim 22 , wherein the cavity is heated to a temperature in a range of about 135° C. to about 150° C.
24. The machine of claim 22 , wherein the cavity is heated with heating elements that are in thermal contact with the surface of the cavity.
25. The machine of claim 22 , wherein the cavity is heated by applying steam to the cavity.
26. The machine of claim 22 , wherein the cavity is configured to apply pressure to the exterior surface to which the outer surface of a plastic foam container on one of the mandrels.
27. The machine of claim 22 , wherein the cavity is formed within a metal cylinder that is positioned to move relative to the turret.
28. A labeled plastic foam container comprising:
an inner plastic foam portion having a density of less than 0.8 g/cm3;
an outer sleeve that adheres to an outer surface of said inner plastic foam portion, the outer sleeve having an outwardly facing surface to which is applied print or graphical designs, the outer sleeve providing stiffness to the inner portion.
29. The labeled plastic foam container, wherein the resulting labeled, plastic foam container has an overall density in the range of 0.05720-0.1888 g/cm3.
30. The labeled plastic foam container, wherein the inner plastic foam portion defines a cup shape with a lip portion, bottom portion, and sidewall.
31. The labeled plastic foam container according to claim 30 , wherein the inner plastic foam portion comprises EPS.
32. The labeled plastic foam container according to claim 28 , wherein the outer sleeve comprises one of a metal foil, a plastic film or a paper sleeve.
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US12/729,982 US8105459B2 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2010-03-23 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
US13/358,153 US8617681B2 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2012-01-25 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
US14/085,379 US9321557B2 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2013-11-20 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
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US11/227,124 US20060005917A1 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2005-09-16 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
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US13/358,153 Expired - Fee Related US8617681B2 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2012-01-25 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
US14/085,379 Active US9321557B2 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2013-11-20 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
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US14/085,379 Active US9321557B2 (en) | 2003-10-03 | 2013-11-20 | Method and apparatus for producing labeled, plastic foam containers, and product of same |
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US20060281619A1 (en) * | 2005-05-27 | 2006-12-14 | Hollis Robert W | Reinforced plastic foam cup, method of and apparatus for manufacturing same |
US20060283855A1 (en) * | 2005-05-27 | 2006-12-21 | Hollis Robert W | Reinforced plastic foam cup, method of and apparatus of manufacturing same |
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US7628597B2 (en) | 2005-08-22 | 2009-12-08 | Nova Chemicals Inc. | Labeled containers, methods and devices for making same |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US8105459B2 (en) | 2012-01-31 |
WO2005032806A3 (en) | 2005-07-07 |
US8617681B2 (en) | 2013-12-31 |
US20120118781A1 (en) | 2012-05-17 |
CA2540964C (en) | 2012-12-11 |
MXPA06003734A (en) | 2007-03-26 |
US20110011523A1 (en) | 2011-01-20 |
CA2540964A1 (en) | 2005-04-14 |
US9321557B2 (en) | 2016-04-26 |
US20140069582A1 (en) | 2014-03-13 |
WO2005032806A2 (en) | 2005-04-14 |
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