U.S. patent application number 10/699286 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-01 for dispenser with applicator module for applying additional elements to dispensed tape.
Invention is credited to Backman, Kenneth D., Barker, Donald, Collins, Robert, LeMoine, George, White, Philip I..
Application Number | 20040124235 10/699286 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32312526 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040124235 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
White, Philip I. ; et
al. |
July 1, 2004 |
Dispenser with applicator module for applying additional elements
to dispensed tape
Abstract
A dispenser for dispensing the length of tape ready for
application on a package, the dispenser including a frame, a feed
mechanism, a cutting mechanism, and an applicator. The frame has a
storage area for storing tape therein. The feed mechanism is
connected to the frame for feeding tape from the storage area. The
cutting mechanism is connected to the frame for cutting the length
of tape dispensed from the dispenser. The applicator is connected
to the frame and adapted for applying an additional element to the
tape when the length of tape is dispensed. The application of the
additional element to the tape provides the length of tape with a
predetermined characteristic. The additional element applied by the
applicator is selected from a number of different additional
elements. Each additional element has a different predetermined
characteristic so that when applied to the tape, each of the
different additional elements provides the length of tape with a
different corresponding predetermined characteristic.
Inventors: |
White, Philip I.; (Prospect,
CT) ; Barker, Donald; (Sandy Hook, CT) ;
Backman, Kenneth D.; (Cheshire, CT) ; Collins,
Robert; (Trumbull, CT) ; LeMoine, George;
(Trumbull, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PERMAN & GREEN
425 POST ROAD
FAIRFIELD
CT
06824
US
|
Family ID: |
32312526 |
Appl. No.: |
10/699286 |
Filed: |
October 31, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60422562 |
Oct 31, 2002 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
229/125.34 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 61/202 20130101;
B65B 51/067 20130101; B65B 61/182 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
229/125.34 |
International
Class: |
B65D 043/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A tape dispenser for dispensing a length of tape ready for
application on a package, the dispenser comprising: a frame with a
storage area for storing tape therein; a feed mechanism connected
to the frame for feeding tape from the storage area; a cutting
mechanism connected to the frame for cutting the length of tape
dispensed from the dispenser; and an applicator connected to the
frame and adapted for applying an additional element to the tape
when the length of tape is dispensed and providing the length of
tape with a predetermined characteristic, wherein the additional
element applied by the applicator is selected from a number of
different additional elements each having a different predetermined
characteristic so that when applied to the tape, each of the
different additional elements provides the length of tape with a
different corresponding predetermined characteristic.
2. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the different
predetermined characteristics include the additional element being
at least one of a marking indicia element, an adhesive element, a
tape reinforcing element, a tape tear out element, a print element,
an electro-optically readable element, or an electronic
communication element.
3. The dispenser according to claim 2, wherein the electronic
communication element is an RFID device.
4. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the tape is at least
one of a gummed tape, or a pressure sensitive tape.
5. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the tape is at least
one of a paper, plastic or composite tape.
6. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the additional
element is a tape reinforcement element, and wherein the dispensed
length of tape comprises a tear out strip including the tape
reinforcement element.
7. The dispenser according to claim 6, wherein the tape
reinforcement element has a pressure sensitive adhesive so that
when applied by the applicator, the tape reinforcement element
attaches to the tape.
8. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the applicator is
removably mounted to the frame.
9. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the applicator has
an element storage area, the element storage area being arranged to
hold the additional element configured in a roll.
10. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising an
adhesive activation system for activating an adhesive on the
dispensed length of tape.
11. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the different
corresponding predetermined characteristic of the dispensed length
of tape comprises the length of tape having at least one of a
marking indicia thereon, an activated adhesive thereon, a tear out
strip, an electro-optically readable indicia thereon, or an
electronic communication component thereon.
12. The dispenser according to claim 11, wherein the cutting
mechanism has a blade adapted for forming a pull tab for the tear
out strip substantially simultaneously with cutting the tape in the
dispenser to form the dispensed length of tape.
13. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the applicator is
adapted to apply the additional element to the tape substantially
continuously, wherein the additional element extends along the
dispensed length of tape from a one end to an opposite end of the
dispensed length of tape.
14. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the tape dispenser
is at least one of a case sealer, a portable tape dispenser or a
hand held tape dispenser.
15. A sealing system for sealing a container, the system
comprising: a first tape; a second tape; and a dispenser for
dispensing a length of tape ready for sealing the container, the
dispenser having a first storage area for holding the first tape, a
second storage area for holding the second tape, and a feed
mechanism for feeding the first tape and the second tape through
the dispenser, the feed mechanism being disposed for merging the
first tape and second tape together so that the dispensed length of
tape is a combination comprising at least a portion of the first
tape and at least another portion of the second tape, wherein the
second tape is selectable from a number of different tapes each
having a different predetermined characteristic so that when
selected as the second tape and combined with the first tape by the
dispenser, each of the different tapes provide the dispensed length
of tape with a different corresponding predetermined
characteristic.
16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the dispenser has a
frame and a removable module mounted to the frame, and wherein the
removable module comprises the second storage area and at least
part of the feed mechanism for feeding the second tape from the
second storage area.
17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the frame has a
handle sized and shaped for allowing a user to hold the dispenser
during use.
18. The system according to claim 15, wherein the dispenser is at
least one of a case sealer, a portable dispenser adapted for being
seated on a counter or table top, or a hand held dispenser.
19. The system according to claim 15, wherein the at least a
portion of the first tape forms a seal sealing the container when
the dispensed length of tape is applied to the package, and wherein
the second tape has an adhesive for adhering the second tape to the
first tape.
20. The system according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the
first tape or the second tape has an adhesive so that when merged
together by the feed mechanism, the first tape and second tape
adhere to each other on contact.
21. The system according to claim 15, wherein the different
predetermined characteristics of the second tape include at least
one of the second tape having a marking indicia thereon, the second
tape having an electro-optically readable indicia thereon, the
second tape comprising RFID's, the second tape being a tape
reinforcing element, or the second tape being a tape tearing
element.
22. The system according to claim 15, wherein the second tape is a
tape reinforcing element, and wherein the dispensed length of tape
includes a tear out strip comprising the tape reinforcing
element.
23. The system according to claim 22, wherein the dispenser further
comprises a cutting mechanism for cutting the length of tape
dispensed from the dispenser, the cutting mechanism having a blade
adapted to form a pull tab for the tear out strip substantially
simultaneously with cutting the combined first tape and second tape
for forming the length of tape, dispensed by the dispenser.
30. A flat sheet material dispenser with a reconfigurable frame.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/422,562 filed Oct. 31, 2002, which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Exemplary Embodiments of the Invention
[0003] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to
dispensers for dispensing sheet or tape materials and, more
particularly, to such dispenser capable of combining two or more
tape materials during dispensing or of adding another element to
the material being dispensed.
[0004] 2. Brief Description of Related Developments
[0005] Conventional flat sheet or tape material dispensers for
dispensing tape or sheet material in a ready to use condition, such
as for example case sealers, or tabletop tape dispensers and even
handheld tape dispensers, generally dispense the material that has
been otherwise preformed and wound in a roll to await dispensing.
Other than merely dispensing the material from the roll,
conventional dispensers generally do not modify or change the
characteristics of the dispensed material except possibly, for
example in the case of tape dispensers, actuating the adhesive on
the dispensed tape or similar minor changes. There are some
conventional dispensers that during dispensing of the sheet/tape
material are capable of adding a further material to the material
being dispensed. One example of such a dispenser is disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 4,869,769, wherein an apparatus applies pull tabs to
two ends of the sealing courses of pressure sensitive tape
dispensed by the apparatus. Another example is disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 3,878,013, wherein a taping apparatus applies a band of
tape around an article. The band of tape is an assembly that
initially comprises two parts fed from two supply rolls and
assembled in the apparatus before being applied to the article. As
seen from the above noted examples, even in conventional dispensers
capable of adding a further material to the tape or base material
being dispensed, the material being added is always the same
material. However, there is a desire amongst users of material
dispensing devices, such as tape dispensers, to be able to dispense
tape having different characteristics while using the same
dispenser and but a single base tape material. For instance, in the
case of commercial packager and shippers there is a desire for a
tape dispenser, be it a case sealer, a portable countertop
dispenser or handheld dispenser, capable of dispensing different
tape while using a single type of base tape. This would enable the
user to purchase but a single type of base tape and yet be able to
tailor the dispensed tape to a given container or application as
desired. This in turn would eliminate having to procure different
tapes for specific applications as with conventional dispensers.
The dispensers according to the exemplary embodiments of the
present invention overcome the problems of conventional dispensers
as will be described further below.
SUMMARY OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0006] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a dispenser for dispensing a length of tape ready for
application on a package is provided. The dispenser includes a
frame, a feed mechanism, a cutting mechanism, and an applicator.
The frame has a storage area for storing tape therein. The feed
mechanism is connected to the frame for feeding tape from the
storage area. The cutting mechanism is connected to the frame for
cutting the length of tape dispensed from the dispenser. The
applicator is connected to the frame and adapted for applying an
additional element to the tape when the length of tape is
dispensed. The application of the additional element to the tape
provides the length of tape with a predetermined characteristic.
The additional element applied by the applicator is selected from a
number of different additional elements. Each additional element
has a different predetermined characteristic so that when applied
to the tape, each of the different additional elements provides the
length of tape with a different corresponding predetermined
characteristic.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The foregoing aspects and other features of the present
invention are explained in the following description, taken in
connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sealing system
incorporating features in accordance with one exemplary embodiment
of the present invention and a package A used with the sealing
system;
[0009] FIG. 1A is an enlarged partial perspective view of the
package A with a tape 100A dispensed by the system in FIG. 1
applied to the package;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic partial elevation view of a tape
application head portion of a dispenser of the sealing system in
FIG. 1;
[0011] FIGS. 3A-3B are respectively front and side elevation views
of a cutting blade of the head portion in FIG. 2;
[0012] FIGS. 4A-4B are respectively an exploded partial perspective
view, and plan view of a tape used with the system in FIG. 1 in
accordance with one exemplary embodiment;
[0013] FIGS. 5A-5E are respectively an exploded perspective,
another perspective, a first elevation, a second elevation, and a
plan view of another tape used with the system in FIG. 1 in
accordance with another exemplary embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a sealing system
in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0015] FIGS. 7A-7B are respectively partial perspective views of
part of the sealing system in FIG. 6 seen from opposite
directions;
[0016] FIG. 8 is a partial elevation view of part of the sealing
system in FIG. 6;
[0017] FIGS. 9A-9B are respectively a perspective view and an
exploded perspective view of a removable module of the sealing
system shown in FIG. 6;
[0018] FIG. 10 is a schematic elevation view of a sealing system in
accordance with another exemplary embodiment; and
[0019] FIG. 11 is a schematic elevation view of a sealing system in
accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of a
sealing system or dispenser 10 incorporating features in accordance
with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and a
package or container A sealed using the dispenser. Although the
present invention will be described with reference to the exemplary
embodiments shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the
present invention can be embodied in many alternate forms of
embodiments. In addition, any suitable size, shape or type of
elements or materials could be used.
[0021] The dispenser is illustrated in FIG. 1, for example purposes
only, as being a case sealing system, and will be described below
with particular reference to the case sealing system. However, the
present invention is equally applicable to any other suitable type
of dispenser or sealing system. As seen in FIG. 1, the case sealing
system 10 generally comprises case sealing apparatus 11 and tape
100. The apparatus may include frame 300, transport system 400,
tape dispensing system 500 and a controller 600 with a user
interface. The controller 600 may be mounted to the frame or may be
remote connected to the apparatus via a suitable communication
network (not shown) such as for example a LAN, the internet or any
other suitable communication system. The case sealing, system 10
operates to automatically seal with tape 100 open seams of
containers, cartons, or packages placed in the case sealing
apparatus 11. FIG. 1 shows the case sealing system with an
exemplary, package or container A.
[0022] Package A, as shown in FIG. 1A, may be for example a carton
having a general hexahedron shape. Package A may have at least two
generally rectangular flaps B, C on at least one side D. When flaps
B and C are folded closed, a seam E' is formed between the flaps.
Seams B', C' are also formed between the folded flaps B, C and one
or more of the adjoining sides E of package A. In alternate
embodiments, package A may be of any other suitable type or
configuration, for example, an envelope, container, carton, etc.
that may require sealing.
[0023] The frame 300 generally has a lower support section 302, a
mid-section 304 and an upper section 306. As see in FIG. 1 the
lower section 302 may comprise a number of legs/columns and support
struts, or any other suitable support structure, to support the
apparatus 11 from a suitable support surface. The mid-section 304
stands atop the lower section 302 and in this embodiment includes
suitable structural sections to mount and support the transport
system 400 to the frame as will be described in more detail below.
The upper section 306 of the frame extends from the mid-section and
may include a number or structural sections as desired to provide
supports for the tape storage area 307 and tape dispensing system
500. In alternate embodiments, the frame of the case sealing
apparatus may have any other desired shape to suit the
configuration of the transport system and dispensing system mounted
from the frame.
[0024] The transport system 400 of the apparatus may include a
transport support 402, a lower guide or guides 404 (in this
embodiment shown as a pair of horizontally opposed rails) for
contacting a lower portion of package A and for guiding package A
along a desired process direction(indicated by arrow x in FIG. 1).
Transport system 400 may also include a upper guide 406, for
contacting and guiding an upper portion of package A, an entry shoe
408 and an exit shoe 409 for applying pressure to a top surface of
package A and a conveyor system (not shown) for moving package A in
the process direction (indicated by arrow x). The transport system
400 of the system shown in FIG. 1 and described above, is merely
exemplary of a suitable transport system for transporting a package
A in the dispenser. As can be understood, in alternate embodiments,
the transport system of the dispenser may have any other suitable
configuration for conveying and controlling the positional
orientation of the package relative to the dispenser.
[0025] In this embodiment, distance between the rails 404 is
adjustable for adjusting a width of passage. Rails are adjustable
toward and away from each other to accommodate packages of
different sizes. Rails may be adjustable by hand and may have
handles to aid in adjustment. Alternate embodiment rails may be
coupled to a drive system that moves rails toward or away from each
other for adjustment. The transport support 402, in this embodiment
generally has a bed of freely rotatable rollers arranged to provide
a movable support area for the package A and allow the package to
move under impetus from the conveyor system in direction X (see
FIG. 2). In alternate embodiments, any suitable transport system
may be used, including for example, a bed of bi-directionally
rotatable rollers, transport pallets, an air cushion system or
others. The conveyor system in this case may include a series of
rollers coupled to a suitable drive motor. Other conveyor systems
including a belt, a piston for pushing package A, etc. or any
combination may be used. In other alternate embodiments, the
sealing system may not have a powered conveyor system, the package
being movable by hand through the dispenser.
[0026] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, tape-dispensing system
500 of the dispenser generally comprises upper and lower dispensing
systems 500A, 500B. The upper and lower systems are generally
similar, and will be described with particular reference to the
upper system 500A. The upper system 500A generally comprises a tape
storage 520, guide rollers 522, idler roller(s) 524 (only one is
shown for example purposes), and a tape application head 526. Tape
storage 520 is shown for example as being configured for holding a
tape supply arranged in a roll or reel. Tape storage 520 may
include a roll support post or drum 525 and one or more opposing
support arms for holding a reel of tape 100 and allowing it to be
fed to guide rollers 522 and idler roller 524. In alternate
embodiments, the tape storage may be configured as desired to hold
a tape supply arranged in any other suitable manner (e.g.
horizontally stacked tape strips). Guide rollers 522 are generally
positioned to guide tape 100 to tape application head 526. Idler
roller 524 may be connected to a tension mechanism 535 that causes
idler roller 524 to maintain tension to tape 100 during operation
of the dispenser.
[0027] Referring now also to FIG. 2, there is shown a schematic
elevation view of the tape application head 526. The tape
application head 526 may, for example purposes, have a
configuration that is generally similar to the tape dispensing
section of the dispensing apparatus described and shown in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,474,392, which is incorporated by referenced herein in
its entirety. Head 526 generally includes a tape feeding mechanism
16, a cutting section 18, and optionally a wetting system 20.
Wetting system 20 may not be used for certain types of tape 100,
for example, those with certain types of pressure sensitive or
pre-activated adhesive as will be described further below. In
alternate embodiments, the tape application head 526 may have any
other desired configuration.
[0028] Feeding mechanism 16 generally comprises idler roller(s) 30,
guide tray(s), feed roller, and drive motor (not shown). Idler
roller(s) 30 (only one idler roller 30 is shown in FIG. 2 for
example purposes) are located in the application head 526 generally
proximate to feed roller 34. Idler roller(s) 30, in cooperation
with idler roller(s) 524 (see FIG. 1), support and guide tape 100
in a feed direction indicated by arrow X1 to feed roller 34. As
shown in FIG. 2, one or more guide trays 32 may be mounted in the
proximity of feed roller 34. Guide trays are shaped and orientated
such that tape 100 riding upon guide trays 32 is orientated true to
feed direction X1 of feed mechanism 16, and aligned with feed
roller 34. This prevents tape 100 from being skewed or twisted
during feeding. Feed roller 34 may be drivingly connected by
suitable transmission means (not shown) such as a belt, or chain
drive to electric motor (not shown). The electric motor driving
feed roller 34 may be energized under control of a controller, and
when energized rotates feed roller 34 in a suitable direction (e.g.
counterclockwise) to transport tape 100 in feed direction X1. In
alternate embodiments, the feed roller may be manually motivated.
Friction contact between feed roller 34 and tape 100 causes
movement of tape 100. Feed roller 34 may be connected to a counter
which can indicate the rotation of the feed roller, and hence, an
amount of tape being fed. A counter may be operable to convey this
information to controller. Feeding mechanism 16 described above and
shown in FIG. 2 is merely one example of a suitable feeding
mechanism which may be used in tape dispensing apparatus 12
according to the present invention. The present invention is
equally applicable to dispensing apparatus having any other
suitable feeding mechanism such as, for example, a manually
operated feeding mechanism, or a feeding mechanism adapted to feed
tape with a pre-activated adhesive.
[0029] Referring also to FIGS. 3A-3B, cutting section 18 includes a
cutting mechanism 38. Cutting mechanism 38 is operated by
controller (not shown) to cut tape 100 fed past cutting section 18,
and generally comprises cutting blade 40 and a blade actuator 42,
44. An example of a suitable cutting mechanism that may be used
with the sealing system 10 in this embodiment is shown and
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,474,392 previously incorporated by
referenced herein. In alternate embodiments, any suitable cutting
mechanism may be used. Cutting blade 40, as seen in FIGS. 3A-4B,
may include a frame member 40F, and a blade member 40B. Blade
member 40B is substantially flat and has a cutting edge 54. A blade
tab 56 is mounted to a side 41B of the blade member. In this
embodiment, blade tab 56 has a general U-shape with two sidewalls
connected by a bottom wall. Alternatively, blade tab 56 may have
any other suitable shape, such as for example, a V shape, or
otherwise the sidewalls may not be connected. In this embodiment,
sidewall 56B may be shorter than sidewall 56A (see FIG. 3A), though
in alternate embodiments the sidewalls may have substantially the
same length or terminate in substantially the same plane. A free
edge 55, 57 of each sidewall is sharpened to form a cutting
edge.
[0030] Cutting blade 40 is slidably supported in frame 11 by guide
rails or any other suitable movable support system. Guide rails
allow cutting blade 40 to slide in the direction indicated by arrow
Z between an up position (shown in FIG. 2), and a down position
(not shown). Cutting blade 40 may be orientated generally
transverse to tape 100 as the tape 100 is being fed by feed
mechanism 16 past cutting blade 40. In addition, cutting blade 40
is positioned in frame 11 such that tape 100 is fed through opening
50 frame member 40F when cutting blade 40 is in the up position,
and when in the down position, cutting edge 54 cuts completely
through tape 100. As seen best in FIG. 3B, in this embodiment, the
cutting blade 40 has a lower arm member that is connected by a pin
(not shown) to one end of the blade actuator. In this embodiment,
the blade actuator generally includes a spring loaded solenoid 42,
and a pivot link 44. In alternate embodiments, any suitable
actuator may be used for moving the blade including a hydraulic or
pneumatic actuator, an electric drive, or a manual actuator. In
this embodiment, pivot link 44 is pivotally mounted to frame of the
application head. One end of the link 44 is pinned to the lower arm
member of blade 40, and the opposite end of pivot link 44 is
connected to an actuator stem 43 of the spring loaded solenoid 42.
Spring loaded solenoid 42 is controlled by controller and operates
to move actuator 43, and hence blade 40 via link 44, generally back
and forth in the direction indicated by arrow Z. Although, in FIG.
2, the actuator stem 43 is shown substantially aligned with the
blade 40, in alternate embodiments, the actuator stem, and indeed
the drive may have any suitable orientation relative to the
direction of movement of the blade during cutting action.
[0031] The optional wetting system 20 of apparatus 11 may be any
suitable wetting system. One suitable example is shown and
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,474,392 previously incorporated by
reference herein. In the embodiment shown, the wetting system
generally comprises a fluid reservoir or bottle (not shown), a
basin or tray 84, a wetting brush 86 and a moisture shield 88 (see
FIG. 2). Tray 84 is mounted to the frame after the cutting blade 40
in the direction of motion X1 tape 100, and is open at the top.
Tray 84 of wetting system. 20 holds a suitable wetting fluid for
activating an adhesive on tape 100. Wetting (brush 86 is located
inside tray 84. A top 90 of brush 86 projects above a lip of tray
84 (see FIG. 2). The bottom of brush 86 sits in fluid in tray 84.
Brush 86 is made of a material suitable for allowing fluid to be
drawn by capillary action from tray 84 along the bristles of brush
86 to the top 90 of brush 86. The bristle density in brush 86 is
sufficient to provide top 90 of brush 86 with a consistent wetting
surface 92. Brush 86 is located in tray 84 so that the wetting
surface 92 of brush 86 is generally coincident with the bottom
surface of tape 100 being dispensed from application head 26.
Accordingly, when tape 100 is dispensed the bottom surface of tape
100 contacts the wetting surface of wetting system 20.
[0032] Apparatus 11, if desired, may be provided with a heater
element 94 (not shown) for heating a surface of the tape to enhance
adhesive activation. The shield 88 of the optional wetting system
allows for selectively wetting portions of the bottom of tape 100
dispensed from apparatus 12 in a manner similar to that described
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,474,392 previously incorporated. Shield 88 may
be a one piece members made from a sheet of suitable material, for
example, stainless steel, though any other suitable material may be
used including plastic. Shield 88 has a base member 87, and a tab
or arm 89 depending therefrom. In alternate embodiments, shield 88
may have any other suitable configuration.
[0033] Shield 88 may be mounted to tray 84 as shown in FIG. 2, or
to any other suitable section of the frame. Arm 89 of shield 88 is
biased against the top 90 of brush 86 in tray 84. This presses a
strip of the top 90 of brush 86 below wetting surface 92. Hence,
when tape 100 is dispensed from tape apparatus 12, the bottom of
tape 100 comes in contact with wetting system 92 but is otherwise
prevented by shield arm 89 from contacting a strip on the top of
brush 86. Thus, as the bottom of tape 100 passes across the top 90
of brush 86, the bottom of tape 100 has a strip 106 (see FIG. 1A)
along its lower surface which is generally unwetted, while the
sections 100A of the bottom of tape 100 on either side are wetted
by wetting system 20.
[0034] Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4B, there is shown respectively an
exploded perspective view, and a top plan view of the tape 100 used
with sealing system 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Tape 100 may be generally similar to the tape
described and shown in U.S. patent Ser. No. 09/672,463 which as
stated before is incorporated by reference herein. Though the
description of the tape will be with particular reference to tape
100, section 100A, (see FIG. 1A) of the tape are substantially
similar. Tape 100 in FIGS. 4A-4B may be reinforced gummed paper
tape, though as noted before any suitable type of tape may be used
including plastic tape. In this embodiment, the tape generally has
a top layer 110, a contact pressure layer 112, reinforcing strands
114A-114C, a bottom layer 116, and a ribbon 104. The top layer 110,
and bottom layer 116 are made of suitable paper. In alternate
embodiments, the top and bottom paper layers may be made of
different paper. The top and bottom layers 110, 116 are
substantially the same width. The pressure contact layer 112 may be
a flexible, water resistant, non-staining layer. In this
embodiment, tape 100 has an array of reinforcing strands 114A-114C
in three directions. In alternate embodiments, the gummed tape may
be reinforced in any number of directions, or may not be reinforced
with reinforcing strands.
[0035] Reinforcing strands 114A-114C may be made of fiberglass, or
any other suitable strand material of appropriate tensile strength,
including plastic, or organic fiber (e.g. cotton). The ribbon 104
of tape 100 may be made from any suitable material such as plastic,
such as metallic ribbon, non-metallic carbon fiber, or organic
fiber. The ribbon 104 is provided with a suitable self-adhesive on
one side 105. The ribbon may include on one side a suitable marking
indicia 101, such as for example a desired alpha-numeric indicia
pattern that may indicate any desired information such as for
example, information on package contents, shipping information or
security information. The indicia may be readable directly by the
user, or may be electro-optically readable indicia, such as a
barcode pattern. The indicia may also be a die or ink. The ribbon
104 may also include a radio frequency identification (RFID)
transponders 113 otherwise, the RFID transponders may be disposed
on a surface, such as an inner surface, of a tape layer 110, 116.
The RFID transponders 113 may include any desired information
transmitted to a suitable receiving system (not shown) when the
RFID transponders are interrogated by the system.
[0036] FIGS. 5A-5E show another exemplary embodiment of tape 100 in
accordance with the present invention.
[0037] In this embodiment, tape 100' generally includes a top layer
510, a bottom surface 512, adhesive 118, and ribbon 104'. In this
embodiment, top layer 510 may be a laminate of one or more suitable
materials, for example, paper, plastic, cloth, fiber, fiberglass,
polymer, polypropylene, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, metal film,
a polymer plastic film, a composite of plastic polymer and paper,
or any combination of suitable materials.
[0038] Adhesive 118 may be a pressure sensitive adhesive, for
example an amorphous polypropylene laminate material which is
non-asphaltic, such as that made by Huntsman Chemical, though any
other suitable pressure contact material may be used. The adhesive
118 may be deposited on bottom surface 512 during or after
manufacture of tape 100', by any suitable means, such as spraying,
rolling, brushing, or a hot melting process. Alternatively, the
adhesive may be a heat activated adhesive wherein the adhesive
tackifyer is heat. The heat may be delivered to the dispensed tape
100' by the heating plate in the dispensing head described
previously.
[0039] Ribbon 104' may be substantially similar to ribbon 104 as
described above and shown in FIG. 4B and may have any suitable
width and thickness dimensions. In this embodiment, ribbon 104' is
applied to bottom surface 512 of tape 100' and bonded to bottom
surface 512 by adhesive 118. In another embodiment, ribbon 104' may
have a coating of adhesive 200 on top surface 105' for bonding to
bottom surface 512 of tape 100'. Adhesive 200 may be the same as
adhesive 118 or may be a different adhesive. Bottom surface 210 of
ribbon 104' my be generally free of any adhesive. Bottom surface
210 of the ribbon 104' may have a marking indicia 101' thereon
similar to indicia 101 described before. As shown in FIG. 5B,
ribbon 104 may extend beyond a forward edge 515 of top layer 510.
In an alternate embodiment, ribbon 104' ends flush with forward
edge 515.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 5E, this embodiment of tape 100 may also
include a start tab 120A located proximate end 124A of cut section
100A. Two substantially parallel slits 122A may be formed on either
side of ribbon 104 to create start tab 120A. An area between slits
122A on bottom surface 512 is generally free of adhesive to
facilitate lifting start tab 120A and a portion of ribbon 104
attached thereto. The action of lifting the portion of ribbon 104
applies force to tape 100 in an area of each slit 122A opposite end
124A of cut section 100A. In this embodiment, the concentration of
force causes the laminate material of top layer 510 to fracture
along the longitudinal edges of ribbon 104, allowing the laminate
material to tear along the longitudinal edges and separate into two
separate pieces.
[0041] Referring now again to FIGS. 1, and 2, a user may dispense
tape 100, 100' from dispensing apparatus 11 as described below. As
noted above, tape 100 is loaded into storage area 520. Water may be
added to optional wetting system 20 if wetting system 20 is present
and required for wetting tape 100. A user energizes apparatus 10
which initiates the controller (not shown). Using user interface
600, the user may program the controller to dispense tape 100 into
sections such as sections 100A (see FIG. 1A) having a desired
length. System 10 may also include contacts or other sensors to
indicate the system controller that package A is in position for
application of tape 100 to the package. Feed system 16 (see FIG. 2)
operates to feed tape 100 in the feed direction X, past the cutting
blade 40 which now is in the up position. If wetting system 20 is
present and being utilized, tape 100 continues in the feed
direction (indicated by arrow X1 in FIG. 2) to wetting system
20.
[0042] Wetting system 20 may not be used with pressure sensitive
tape 100'. Shield 88 is generally aligned with ribbon 104 of tape
100. Arm 89 is sufficiently wide to cover ribbon 104. As tape 100
is being fed, wetting surface 92 of brush 86 brushes against
surface 102 of tape 100, except in the area of shield arm 89.
Shield arm 89 prevents a portion of bottom surface 112 of tape 100
from coming into contact with brush 86. This forms a strip 106 as
the tape 100 is fed where surface 112 is not wetted (see FIG. 1A).
Ribbon 104 of tape 100 is located on strip 106. Moisture from
wetting surface 92 deposited on tape 100 activates adhesive 102
except on strip 106. If desired, heater element 94 may have been
previously activated to heat the water in tray 84 and on brush 86
to a desirable temperature. This enhances the activation of
adhesive 102 on surface 112 except on strip 106. The moisture
activated adhesive 102 in the area of strip 106 remains dry and
inactive. When the controller senses, from counter 35, a desired
length of tape 100 has been dispensed, the controller de-energizes
spring loaded solenoid 42. This brings cutting blade 40 down and
cuts tape 100 into a section such as section 100A. Cutting blade 40
cuts tape 100 transversely across, to form a tape section 100A (see
FIG. 1A) of predetermined size suitable for sealing the open seam
of the package A. During actuation of the cutting blade 40 to cut
the tape 100, to form the length of tape 100A dispensed by system
10, the cutting edges on blade tab 56 (see FIG. 3A) form slots 122A
in the cut end 124A of tape 100. The slots cut end 124A of slots
are formed adjacent to strip 106, and define a pull tab 120A for
the strip. In a similar manner a pull tab 120A' is formed in the
end 124A of tape 100' (see FIG. 5E).
[0043] The tape dispensing system and transport system are
synchronized so that the tape 100 is dispensed from the exit area
26 at a corresponding time at which the package A is moved past the
opening. Accordingly, the dispensed tape comes into the contact
with the package A surface and continues to be dispensed as the
package is moved under the opening. The tape 100 is thus place over
the opening. Contact rollers depending from the frame 500 may be
used to ensure the open seam in the package is minimized and to
apply contact pressure to the tape as the package A is moved by the
transport system to ensure adhesion between the tape 100 and
package. Similarly, the lower portion 500B, of the tape dispensing
system operates to apply tape to a bottom seam of the package. The
tape dispensed by the lower section 500B of the tape dispensing
system may not have an easy to remove tear strip as tape 100 in the
upper section of the tape dispensing system.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 1A, when desiring to open seam E' of the
package A, the user merely lifts and pulls on start tab 120A (see
also FIGS. 4B and 5E) of the tape section 10A. The start tab 120A
which is part of unbonded strip 106 is also not bonded to the
package A and may be readily lifted and pulled by the user. The tab
120A is pulled in the direction indicated by arrow Y in FIG. 1A.
Pulling the start tab 120A, which has a portion of ribbon 104A
thereon, in turn, pulls ribbon 104A in strip 106A thereby tearing
of the tear strip 108 from the tape 100 and opening seam E'. Tear
strip 108 tears easily because the strip 106A which forms the tear
strip 108 is not bonded to the package. This allows the pulling
force delivered by the user to be transmitted in part, in tearing
the tape, rather than pulling against the adhesive holding the tape
100 on the package A. Moreover, ribbon 104A which is on strip 106
is also free to lift off the package, and provides mechanical
advantage to break reinforcing strands (similar to strands 114B,
114C in FIG. 4B) of the tape 100. In alternate embodiments, the
tear strip may have adhesive bonding the strip to the package
surface. However, in these embodiments the tear strip will still
tear free from the package and tear the tape under the mechanical
advantage of ribbon 104A prying the strip. As can be seen in FIG.
1, the tearing of the tearing strip 108 from the tape section 100
applied to package A, preferably causes permanent, visible damage
to the tape section 100 in the form of the uplifted, and torn strip
108. Accordingly, this provided an indication to a recipient user
receiving the package A, that the package A may have been tampered
with. Thus, it is also within the scope of the exemplary embodiment
to provide a security system (see FIG. 1) for packages, wherein the
tape 100 applied to the package A as described previously gives an
indication to the user, such as by the visibly torn strip 108, that
the package A has been tampered with. Once tear strip 108 has been
torn, the tape section cannot be restored to its original
condition, and the evidence of tearing will remain visible to a
user. Further any dies or inks on ribbon 104 may be released,
thereby becoming visible even if an attempt is made to repair torn
strip 10B.
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown an exploded
perspective view of a sealing system 1010 in accordance with
another exemplary embodiment. The sealing system 1010 in this
embodiment is generally similar to sealing system 10 described
before and shown in FIGS. 1-5. Accordingly, similar features are
similarly numbered.
[0046] System 1010 generally comprises a dispenser 1011 for
dispensing material such as tape 100". The present invention is
equally applicable to any desired type of material dispenser,
including material dispensers other than sealing tape dispensers.
Tape 100" may be similar to tape 100, 100' and will be described in
greater detail below. Dispenser 1011 is shown in FIG. 6 as being a
case sealer for example purposes, and in alternate embodiments may
have any other suitable configuration. As seen in FIG. 6, dispenser
1011 generally comprises support structure 1300, a transported
package guide section 1400 and a material dispensing system 1500.
In this embodiment, the material dispensing system 1500 is
configured for holding and dispensing tape 100". In alternate
embodiments, the material dispensing system may be configured to
dispense any suitable flat material sheets. The support structure
1300, is generally similar to support structure 300 described
before, and includes any suitable number of support posts, braces
and beams for supporting the other components of the dispenser
1011. The transport section 1400 may include lower guide(s) 1404
and upper guide(s) 1406 for orientating a package, similar to
package A (see FIGS. 1-1A) with respect to the dispenser 1011. The
transport section 1400 may also include a package transport bed,
similar to the bed of rollers 402 in FIG. 1, for moving the package
in a process direction indicated by arrow X in FIG. 6. Tape
dispensing system 1500 is also generally similar to the dispensing
system 500 shown in FIG. 1. Dispensing system 1500 may include
upper and lower tape dispensing sections 1500A, 1500B for taping
and sealing substantially at the same time opposite sides of the
package. In alternate embodiments, the dispenser may have any
desired number of dispensing sections. The upper and lower
dispensing sections 1500A, 1500B are similar and will be described
below with specific reference to the upper section 1500A.
[0047] Upper dispensing section 1500A, as shown in FIG. 6, may have
a tape storage area 1525, idler/guide roller(s) 1030, feed
roller(s) 1034 and a tape application head 1526. As shown in FIG.
6, the storage area 1525 may be a freely rotatable post or drum
1525 capable of supporting a roll R of tape 100". As noted before
with respect to dispenser 11 in FIG. 1, in alternate embodiments
the tape storage area may have any other desired configuration to
hold the dispensed material arranged in configurations other than a
roll. As seen in FIG. 6, the tape storage 1525 is supported on an
arm member 1307. Arm member 1307 may be pivotable and biased by
suitable means such as a tension spring (not shown) in the
direction indicated by arrow .theta.. The bias of member 1307
provides tension to tape 100" dispensed from area 1525. In
alternate embodiments, the storage area 1525 may include an
integral tensioner, such as torsion spring on the drum, or brake to
maintain tension on the tape 100" during dispensing. Guide
roller(s) 1030, and feed roller(s) 1034 (only one guide and feed
roller are shown in FIG. 6 for example purposes) operate in concert
to feed tape 100" to the tape application head 1526 of the
dispenser. As seen in FIG. 6, tape application head 1526 is located
to direct the tape dispensed from dispenser on to the surfaces
(similar to panels B and L in FIG. 1A) of the package. One or more
applicator rollers 1031 aids in applying the tape to the package
surface. The tape application head 1526 dispenses the desired
length of tape. The tape application head 1526 is generally similar
to application head 526 described before and shown in FIG. 2.
Application head 1526 includes a cutting mechanism 1518 that is
operably connected to a controller (not shown). The controller
sends a signal to effect operation of the cutting mechanism 1518
thereby cutting the dispensed tape at the desired length upon
receiving a signal from a suitable sensor (not shown) that the
desired length of tape has been dispensed. The cutting mechanism
includes a cutting blade, similar to blade 40 (see FIGS. 2 and
3A-3B) that includes cutting edges projecting from the blade,
similar to tab edges 55 (see FIGS. 3A-3B) for cutting longitudinal
slots in the dispensed tape 100A" (similar to slots 122A in FIGS.
4B, 5E). This as will be described further below, forms a pull tab
(similar to tab 120A in FIG. 4B) for a tear strip formed on
dispensed tape 100A".
[0048] In this embodiment, the tape application head may not
include a tape wetting system (such as wetting system 20 of head
526 shown in FIG. 2). For example, tape 100" may be tape generally
similar to tape 100', described before and shown in FIGS. 5A-5C.
Tape 100" may have a layer similar to base layer 510 (see FIG. 5A)
made for example of plastic, or any other suitable material. One
surface of the layer 510 (similar to surface 512) may have a
pressure sensitive adhesive similar to adhesive 118. In alternate
embodiments, the tape 100" may comprise multiple layers, similar to
the embodiment shown in FIG. 5D. In other alternate embodiments,
tape 100" may be paper tape, such as for example reinforced, or
unreinforced gummed paper, similar to tape 100 shown in FIG. 4A. In
the case tape 100", is gummed tape, the dispenser 1011 may be
provided with a wetting or adhesive activation system as will be
described below.
[0049] As seen in FIG. 6, the sealing system 1010 includes
removable interchangeable modules 1710, 1710A (only two modules
1710, 1710A are shown in FIG. 6 for example purposes, and the
system may include any number of modules). Each of the modules
1710, 1710A may be capable of adding a different desired element to
the tape 100" during dispensing, as will be seen further below. The
modules 1710, 1710A are mountable to the support structure 1300 of
the dispenser 1011. The user selects a module 1710, 1710A according
to which desired element is to be added to the dispensing tape, and
mounts the module on the support structure. The user then operates
the dispenser to dispense tape 100, and the module 1710 mounted on
the dispenser operates to add the desired element to the tape as it
is being dispensed.
[0050] Still Referring to FIG. 6, the removable modules 1710, 1710A
may have some features that are common to all modules, such as for
example a support frame 1714, 1714A, with a mounting surface for
mounting the removable module to a support surface(s) 1302 of the
dispenser support structure 1300. Also, the removable modules 1710,
1710A may have an application area, exit or aperture 1712, 1712A
that is so positioned when each of the respective modules is
mounted to structure surface 1302 for the additional element to be
applied to tape 100 as it is being dispensed. Although in this
exemplary embodiment it is shown that the entire module is
removable, in alternate embodiments the modules may have a portion
fixed to the dispenser structure and a removable portion.
[0051] By way of example, and with reference also to FIGS. 7A-7B,
respectively showing partial perspective views of part of dispenser
1011 and a representative selectable module 1710 as seen from
opposite directions. Module 1710 is of a type capable of adding an
element such as supplemental layer, ribbon or any other desired
longitudinally extended material. Referring also to FIGS. 9A-9B,
respectively showing another perspective view, and an exploded
perspective view of an exemplary module 1710, having a frame 1714
that is removable substantially as a unit. In alternate
embodiments, the frame may be subdivided into portions that may be
snapped together and separated from each other thereby allowing a
portion to remain fixed to dispenser structure while another
portion is removed. The frame 1714, in this embodiment, may
generally include in this embodiment, outer side walls 1720 and
cross braces or members 1722, 1724, 1726. In this embodiment, the
frame or casing 1714 is generally open, providing ready access to
module components between the frame walls. In alternate
embodiments, the module frame or casing may have any other desired
shape, and may be either open or closed. The frame 1714 may be
either metal, plastic or any other suitable material. The side
walls 1720 may be stamped or molded. The bottom of the side walls
1720 may be formed substantially flat, or may be machined, to
provide seating surface 1716. The seating surfaces 1716 are
provided with a complementing attitude relative to mounting
surfaces 1302 of the dispenser support structure 1300 (See FIGS.
7A-7B) to position the application area 1712 of the module in the
desired location on the dispenser, when the module is mounted to
the dispenser. The frame 1714 has a locating feature 1728 for
longitudinally locating the module 1710 on the dispenser structure.
In this embodiment, each side wall 1720 has a tab 1730 to form the
locating feature 1728. The tabs 1730 have a surface which abuts a
surface 1303 of the support structure (see FIG. 7B) to locate the
module 1710 on the dispenser. The mechanical stops provided by tabs
1730 provide an effective, reliable locating system allowing for
ease of installation of the module. In alternate embodiments the
locating feature may be provided using any other suitable means.
Cross members 1722, 1724, 1726 provide rigidity to the frame 1714.
The cross members 1722, 1724, 1726 are shown as being pins or rods,
but may have any suitable form. The cross members 1722, 1724, 1726
may be mechanically mounted to the sidewalls 1720, such as for
example using screws or other fasteners, or may be staked or pinned
to the sidewalls. As seen in FIGS. 9A-9B, in this embodiment, cross
members 1724, 1726 are mounted at the front 1714F of the frame, and
cross member 1722 is mounted at the rear 1714R. In alternate
embodiments, any suitable number or arrangement of cross members
may be used.
[0052] As seen best in FIG. 9A, the frame 1714 of the removable
module 1710, defines a storage area 1740 for holding a supply of
the additional element to be applied to tape 100" when being
dispensed. In this embodiment, the storage area 1740 holds a supply
or ribbon 104B. As seen in FIGS. 9A-9B, in this embodiment the
storage area 1740 includes a spindle shaft 1742 capable of holding
thereon a roll R104 of ribbon 104B. As shown in FIG. 9B, spindle
shaft 1742 may include a support pin 1744, bushings or collars 1746
and outer cylinder 1748. The support pin 1744, may be made from any
suitable material (e.g. plastic, metal) and may be solid or hollow.
The pin 1744 spans between the sidewalls 1720, and is configured to
be seated in slots 1750 (see FIG. 9B) of the side walls. The ends
of the pin 1744 may be provided with a locking groove 1752 to
laterally lock the pin in the frame 1714.
[0053] In alternate embodiments, any suitable locking means may be
used to hold the pin in the module frame. Bushings 1746 are mounted
to opposite ends of the pin. The bushings may be made of any
suitable plastic (i.e. Delrin.TM.) or metal (oil impregnated
bronze) to provide a lubricious sliding surface against pin 1744. A
suitable tensioner (not shown) such as a torsion spring or other
torsional resilient element, or brake may be interposed between
bushings 1746 and pin 1744 to provide tension on ribbon 104B during
dispensing. Bushings 1746 are each provided with a collar 1746C to
mate the outer cylinder 1748 to the bushings. The outer cylinder
1748 of spindle shaft 1742 is thus supported by and rotates with
the bushings. As seen in FIG. 9A, roll R104 of ribbon 104 is seated
on the outer cylinder 1748. As can be realized, in alternate
embodiments the storage area 1740 of the removable module may be
arranged in any other desired manner to hold the supply of the
additional element according to the disposition in which the supply
is provided. For example, a tray may be provided to hold an array
of stacked ribbons. As can be realized from FIG. 9A, the spindle
shaft 1742 may be readily removed from frame 1714, thereby readily
removing the supply of the added element (i.e. roll R104) by
lifting the shaft 1742 (in the direction indicated by arrow O in
FIG. 9B) out of slots 1750. This allows for rapid replacement of a
spent supply, as well as the swapping of different elements. Hence,
in accordance with the exemplary embodiment, not only are different
removable modules 1710, 1710A readily interchangeable, but the
different additional elements being added to the dispensing tape,
are themselves readily interchanged within a given module 1710.
[0054] Referring again to FIG. 7B, and by way of example, module
1710 in this embodiment holds a supply (roll R104) of ribbon 104B.
Ribbon 104B may be any suitable longitudinally elongated material
such as tape or ribbon. Although in this embodiment ribbon 104B is
shown as being of smaller width than tape 100", in alternate
embodiments, the ribbon 104B may be similar to ribbon 104, 104"
described before and shown in FIGS. 4A, 5A. Accordingly, ribbon
104B may be plastic (such as biaxially oriented polypropylene
(BOPP) or mono-axial polypropylene (MOPP)) ribbon, metallic ribbon,
non-metallic carbon fiber, or organic fiber. As noted above, the
ribbon may have any desired width and thickness corresponding to a
desired use. For example, if the ribbon 104B is being applied to
tape 100", to provide the tape with added reinforcement, a wider
ribbon may be used. Otherwise, if the ribbon 104B is to provide
little reinforcement, but a tear out element is desired, then
possibly a less wide ribbon may be used. The ribbon 104B may be
provided with a suitable pressure sensitive adhesive 105B (see FIG.
7B) on one side to facilitate adhesion to tape 100", especially
when tape 100" is gummed tape. Further, similar to ribbons 104,
104A, ribbon 104B may have a desired marking indicia, thereon
(e.g., an alpha-numeric pattern or an electro-optically readable
pattern). Ribbon 104B may otherwise include a die or ink to provide
a tamper proof feature to dispensed tape 100A" (the die to be
released, or become visible once the dispensed tape 100A is torn
from the package on which the tape is applied). Further, ribbon
104B may include RFID transponders, similar to transponders 113,
with any desired information encoded thereon. The above listed
examples of the type of ribbon 104B that may be used in module 1710
are not meant to be inclusive, and in other alternate embodiments
the ribbon 104B may be of any other type. As may be realized the
different examples of ribbon may be provided in different
interchangeable ribbons that may be arranged for example in rolls
similar to roll R104. FIG. 6 shows module 1710 with ribbon 104B
loaded in the module frame, and a different interchangeable ribbon
104C arranged in a roll R104C. When desired, the ribbon 104B in the
module 1710 may be replaced with another interchangeable ribbon
104C by lifting the spindle shaft 1742 (in the direction indicated
by arrow O in FIGS. 7A-9B) and replacing the roll on the shaft. The
shaft may then be seated again in the frame. In the above noted
manner, any desired additional element may be added to tape 100"
when being dispensed.
[0055] Still referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the application area
1712 of the removable module 1710 may correspond, at least
generally, to the type of ribbon 104B being dispensed. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, the module 1710 has a grooved
roller 1750. The roller 1750 may be rotatably supported on cross
member 726, though in alternate embodiments, the roller may be
supported in any other desired manner. The groove 1756 in roller
1750 is generally conformal to the shape of ribbon 104B and
provides directional stability to the ribbon as it is being fed
from the supply in the removable module 1710. The lateral location
of the roller 1750 may be held by clamps or snubbers 1752. In this
embodiment, the clamps 1752 are mounted-onto member 1726 and fixed
by set screws 1754. The position of the clamps 1752 on member 1726
may be adjusted, thereby adjusting the lateral position of roller
1750. As seen best in FIGS. 7A, 7B, the ribbon 104B is extended
from the roll in the storage area 1740 of the module, around roller
1750 to exit 1712 of the module. Referring also to FIG. 8, which
shows a schematic elevation of module 1710 on the dispenser 1011,
after placement of the module 1710 on support structure 1300, the
ribbon 104B exiting from application area 1712 may be fed into the
feed roller(s) 1034 of the dispenser. As seen in FIGS. 7A-7B and 8,
the ribbon 1048 extending from the module, contacts tape 100" and
with the tape passes around idler roller 1030 and feed roller 1034
in an arrangement configured to generate substantially
uninterrupted contact between the tape 100" and ribbon 104B. The
tape 100" is fed from roll R so that the adhesive face 118" of tape
100" faces the ribbon 104B. In the case, tape 100" has pressure
sensitive adhesive on face 118", contact pressure between ribbon
and tape as both pass around rollers 1030, 1034 is adequate to bond
the ribbon to the tape. If tape 100" is gummed tape, the adhesive
on face 118" may be inactive, but the ribbon 104B may be provided
with a pressure sensitive adhesive on side 105C (see FIG. 7B) of
the ribbon 104B which again is adequate to bond the ribbon to tape
100" as they pass around rollers 1030, 1034. In the event tape 100"
is a gummed tape. The removable module 1710 may be provided with an
optional wetting system similar to wetting system 20 of application
head 526 shown in FIG. 2. In an alternate embodiment, the optional
wetting system, similar to wetting system 20 in FIG. 2, may be
included in the application head 1526 of the dispenser (see FIG.
6).
[0056] As may be realized, the tape 100A" dispensed by the
dispenser 1011 and applied to seal seams similar to seams E' on
package A (see FIG. 1A) may be configured as desired when being
dispensed, by mounting the desired interchangeable module 1710,
1710A on the dispenser, or by using the desired material supply
104B 104C in the module. The dispensed tape 100A" may include a
tear strip, similar to strip 106 in FIG. 1A, which has ribbon 104B
thereon. Upon tearing of the tear strip, the ribbon, depending on
which ribbon was selected, may release an ink or die, make a
marking indicia visible or readable, or provide some other
indication that the package seals have been tampered with.
[0057] Although, module 1710 has been described above as being
arranged for dispensing a longitudinally elongated material, in
alternate embodiments the interchangeable module may be able to
apply any other desired material to tape 100 as it is being
dispensed. For example, module 1710A may have a casing configured
for holding a supply of a desired liquid or powder element, such as
an adhesive, a die or ink. The liquid supply may have suitable feed
channels (not shown) directing the liquid from the supply to the
application element 1712A (such as for example a roller or brush).
The module may have a connector (not shown) for connecting the
module to a power supply (not shown) for example to heat the supply
or power the application element 1712A. When the module 1710A is
mounted to the support structure 1300, the application element is
located to apply the liquid or powder element, by direct contact
transfer or other media transfer, to the tape surface
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 10, there is shown a schematic
elevation view of another sealing system 2010 in accordance with
another exemplary embodiment of the invention. In general, system
2010 is similar to systems 10 and 1010 described before. In this
case, however, the dispenser 1001 may be a portable dispenser
capable of being placed on a work surface T such as a bench or
countertop.
[0059] An example of a suitable dispenser that may be used in this
exemplary embodiment is described and shown in U.S. Pat. No.
6,474,392, previously incorporated by reference. Dispenser 2011 has
a support frame or casing 2300 that defines storage area 2500
which, as shown in FIG. 10, is arranged to hold a supply of tape
100'" provided in a roll. The dispenser 2011 also has a tape feed
system, with guide roller(s) 2030, 2032 and feed roller(s) 2034,
and a cutting mechanism 2018 for cutting the tape fed from the
supply. Dispenser 2011 may include an optional wetting system 2020,
as shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, used in the case
tape 100" is gummed tape. Tape 100'" used with system 2010 is
similar to tape 100" described before. Similar to dispenser 1011,
dispenser 2011 has an interchangeable module 2710 mounted therein
that is selected from a number of interchangeable modules 2710A
(only two interchangeable modules are shown in FIG. 10 for example
purposes, though system 2010 may include any desired number of
interchangeable modules). Each interchangeable module 2170, 2710A
has a different material or element that may be applied to tape
100'" when being dispensed to provide the dispensed tape 100A'"
with a desired property. In this embodiment, the interchangeable
modules are illustrated as being bobbins or reels 2714 that hold a
supply of ribbon 104B', 104C'. Ribbon 104B', 104C' is substantially
similar to ribbon 104B described before. Reel 2714, as seen in FIG.
10 is configured to be rotatably seated on a bracket or mount 2306
formed on dispenser frame 2306. A holding clamp or fixture 2728 may
be provided to hold the reel 2714 in the mount 2306. The clamp 2728
may have engagement tabs to catch complementing edges 2303 on the
frame 2300 (see FIG. 10). With reel 2710 on mount 2306, the clamp
2728 may be placed over the reel and engagement tabs 2730 engaged
with edges 2303 to hold the reel in the mount. The clamp 2728 is
resilient flexible thereby providing tensioning means on the reel.
Also, the engagement tabs may be deflected, either by pulling the
clamp or squeezing the clamp, to disengage the tabs from the frame
and release the reel 2710 from the dispenser. During operation of
the dispenser 2011, ribbon 104B' is drawn from the reel 2710, and
is mated with the 100'" by passing between rollers 2032, 2034.
Accordingly, tape 100A'" dispensed by the dispenser includes ribbon
104B', 104C'. The dispensed tape 100A'" is cut by cutting mechanism
2018 to the desired length. The blade 2040 of the cutting mechanism
has tab 2056, similar to tab 56 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, with cutting
edges 2055 for forming a pull tab for the tear out strip similar to
tabs 120A, 120A' in FIGS. 4B and 5E. As in the other dispensers,
the pull tab is formed when cutting the length of tape
dispensed.
[0060] Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown another sealing
system 3010 in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment.
System 3010 is again generally similar to systems 10, 1010, 2010
described before. In this case, the dispenser 3011 is a hand
holdable dispenser. The dispenser structure 3300 has a handle
allowing an operator to hold the dispenser in her hand. The
dispenser 3011 has a tape feed system 3500 with a tape storage 3525
and a feed roller 3034. The feed system is operated by the user,
placing the tape 100.sup.IV on feed roller 3034 in contact with a
side of a package, similar to package A in FIG. 1A, and drawing the
dispenser in a direction along the handle 3310. As seen in FIG. 11,
system 3010 includes a number of interchangeable bobbins or reels
3710, 3710A. Each reel 3710, 3710A may have a different ribbon
104B", 104C" stored thereon. Ribbon 1048", 104C" is substantially
similar to ribbon 104B, 104C described before. A user, selects a
desired reel 3710, and rotatably mounts the reel on the dispenser
frame as shown in FIG. 11. The reel 3710 feeds the ribbon onto tape
100.sup.IV, contact between the ribbon and tape, as the tape and
ribbon pass around roller 2034 cause the ribbon to adhere to the
pressure sensitive adhesive on side 118 of the tape.
[0061] The dispenser 3011 further includes a blade 3040 for cutting
a desired length of time 100A.sup.IV during dispensing. The
dispensed tape 100.sup.IV is similar to other dispensed tape 100A"
described above, including a tear strip similar to strip 106 and a
pull tab (not shown) similar to tab 120A. Blade 3040 of dispenser
3011 includes cutting edges (not shown in FIG. 11) similar to the
edges formed by tab 56 on blade 40 in Fig. A, and able to form the
pull tab for the tear strip when the dispensed tape is cut.
[0062] It should be understood that the foregoing description is
only illustrative of the invention. Various alternatives and
modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without
departing from the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is
intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and
variances which fall within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *