Videojet is one of the leading labeling and coding specialists, known for its print-and-apply labelers and a comprehensive portfolio of product coding and marking technologies.
So, I was a little surprised to see the company launch a new applicator system for pre-printed pressure-sensitive labels – the Videojet 9310. Looking at the innovation built into this new system, it’s easy to see why this is a good addition to the Videojet product line.
My thought when I saw an image of this applicator is that I liked the clean Euro styling and the simple path for the label web. A closer look revealed that Videojet has incorporated the innovative Intelligent MotionTM Label Drive, first seen in the 9550 family of print-apply labelers.
The Intelligent Motion drive eliminates the need for drive and pinch rollers, instead controlling web speed and tension using servos for the unwind and liner rewind systems.
Videojet’s Intelligent Motion Drive
Rather than relying on the usual mix of clutches, rollers and manual tension adjustments found in conventional label applicators, the direct drive Intelligent Motion controls label speed and position electronically. Videojet says this removes many of the mechanical parts that tend to wear out, slip or require recalibration over time, which in turn is meant to reduce label jams and misapplications that plague busier case coding lines. An electronic supply reel works alongside the drive to maintain consistent tension automatically, regardless of running speed or the amount of label stock remaining on the roll.
This render of the new label applicator head shows just how simple the web path is. This makes it simple for the line operators to load labels onto the machine and reduces the chance of labels getting stuck on the rollers, which causes downtime.
A simple, integrated touchscreen interface controls the system, and the applicator has comprehensive communication capabilities, including the ability to use Videojet’s Remote Service offering.
My Thoughts
As I already mentioned, I like the design of this labeling head. The straight section of the label web prior to the peel plate will also provide a mounting area for a thermal transfer overprinter (TTO) or thermal inkjet (TIJ) coder to add variable information, such as date/batch codes or 2D barcodes, to the labels, which is becoming increasingly important.
While the market for label applicators is rather crowded, the Videojet 9310 Applicator represents something new and different – the Intelligent Motion Label Drive. This, combined with a well-thought-out mechanical design and strong integration capabilities, makes it an interesting contender for both existing Videojet customers and others. Since the label feed of pressure-sensitive applicators is faster than that of print/apply systems, where Videojet usually deploys its Intelligent Motion Drive, it will be interesting to see how well it performs in this application.
I’m already wondering whether Videojet intends to build on the applicator and add product-handling systems to create complete labeling solutions. It should be interesting.
