WO2013036986A1

WO2013036986A1 - Apparatus for labelling bags

Info

Publication number: WO2013036986A1
Application number: PCT/AU2012/001071
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sven PETROFF; Eranga WIRASINGHE; Daniel Yang
Original assignee: TRONICS Pty Ltd
Current assignee: TRONICS Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2011-09-16
Filing date: 2012-09-07
Publication date: 2013-03-21
Anticipated expiration: 2014-03-16

Abstract

This invention relates to labelling apparatus (1) for applying a label (40) to a bag (42) forming part of a bag web (37). Each individual bag (42) is distinguished by a connecting zone (15) and the labelling apparatus (1) includes a sensor (18) for sensing the connecting zone (15). The apparatus (1) applies the label (40) to the bag (42) on the basis of information received from the sensor (18).

Description

APPARATUS FOR LABELLING BAGS

This invention relates to apparatus for applying labels to bags. More specifically the apparatus accommodates a label roll and a bag roll with a processor for controlling the application of the labels to the bags. The apparatus has been designed for an application with transparent shrink bags for consumable products, and it will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention with reference to this application. It will be appreciated however that the apparatus will have other applications.

Producers of consumable products continue to adopt packaging with labels when selling their products. The labelling is often the most effective means of distinguishing the products of one producer from the same products produced by another producer. Producers often invest heavily in their brand and the label is often the most powerful vehicle for conveying the brand to their customers. The application of the label to the packaging can be critical, to the extent that perfectly good products are withheld from sale on the basis that the labelling on the packaging is unsatisfactory. The packaging of products of variable shape often utilises plastic bags. The use of heat shrink bags to package food products is becoming increasingly popular. The application of a label to the bag generally involves forwarding the bag roll to a printer who prints the label onto the bag. The printing process needs to be compatible with the bag so as not to deform the bag. This is particularly the case with heat shrink bags where heating of the bag during the printing process needs to be avoided.

Another option for applying the label to the bag is to supply the producer with a number of adhesive labels and have the producer apply each label to each individual bag. Whilst this may satisfy some sections for the market, there is a perception that the product is of lower quality when the label is manually applied. Naturally producers want to avoid the packaging/labelling devaluing the product. Once the bag has been printed it can be forwarded onto the producer to package the product. It can be at this stage that the producer appreciates that the shape of the product results in the label being located in a less than desirable position. Given the efficiency of the process requires a large number of bags to be printed, the producer can be left with a large number of unsuitable printed bags. The alternative is to hold a stock of bags with the labels in a range of positions, however that requires the producer to hold a significant amount of stock. The applicant has appreciated that greater flexibility in producing labelled bags is required. It is also desirable that the labelled bag enhance rather than detract from the characteristics or qualities of the bagged product.

According to this invention there is provided an apparatus for applying a label to a bag, the apparatus including a first unwind spool for accommodating a plurality of labels on a backing web wound up to form a label roll, a first set of pinch rollers for driving the web within the apparatus, a second unwind spool for accommodating a bag roll of a plurality of bags, each bag having a connecting zone for connecting adjacent bags, a second set of pinch rollers for driving the bags within the apparatus, a label dispensing station at which each label is applied onto a target region of each bag, a sensor for sensing the connecting zone and issuing a signal, a processor for controlling operation of the apparatus that receives the signal and controls the first set of pinch rollers and second set of pinch rollers so as to present each label at the dispensing station when the target region is adjacent to the dispensing station, so as to produce a labelled bag.

The invention may include any suitable form of sensor however where the bag is transparent it is preferred that the sensor includes a laser directing a beam from one side of the bag through the connecting zone to a mirror that reflects the beam, and a receiver for receiving the reflected beam whereby the intensity of the reflected beam alters when the connecting zone is detected for the sensor to send the signal to the processor. Alternatively the bag may be opaque and in which case another form of sensor will be required. The connecting zone preferably includes a perforation extending across a width dimension of each bag whereby the sensor senses the perforation. It is further preferred that the intensity of the reflected beam increases when detecting the perforation. Alternatively it is preferred that the connecting zone includes a seam extending across a width dimension of each bag, the seam defining the bottom of the bag, whereby the sensor senses the seam. In this case it is preferred that the intensity of the reflected beam decreases when detecting the seam. It is preferred that the seam is a welded seam, however the seam may be formed by any suitable method and this may impact on the intensity of the reflected beam.

It is preferred that the processor is operable in a continuous mode so as to continuously apply the label to the target region. This preferably includes a rewind spool to accommodate the bags with the labels applied thereto wound onto the rewind spool to form a labelled bag roll when the processor is operating in the continuous mode. Alternatively the processor is operable in a batch mode so as to apply labels to a select number of bags. This preferably includes the second set of pinch rollers acting as a brake once the select number of bags has passed the second set of pinch rollers to facilitate separation of the select number of bags from the remaining roll of bags. It is further preferred that the processor controls the first set of pinch rollers and the second set of pinch rollers so as to facilitate dispensing labelled bags individually from the apparatus. It is still further preferred that the processor includes a foot controlled interface to facilitate the dispensing of the labelled bags individually.

It is preferred that the apparatus include at least one web tensioner for maintaining tension on the backing web as it is driven within the apparatus. The web tensioner may include a pivotable member having a plurality of bristles, or a roller that engages the web. It is further preferred that the tensioner includes a biasing means for urging the pivoting member to pivot in a preferred direction to maintain tension on the web. It is preferred that the processor is programmable to adjust a position of the target region relative to the connecting zone. It is further preferred the adjustment of the target region is made in a length direction of the bag. This may be achieved by adjusting the timing on presenting the label at the dispensing station. It is further preferred that the apparatus includes a label platform for supporting at least the first unwind spool and the first set of pinch rollers, a bag platform for supporting at least the second unwind spool and the second set of pinch rollers wherein an alignment of the label platform relative to the bag platform is adjustable to adjust a position of the target region in a width direction of the bag. It is further preferred that the processor is programmable to adjust the alignment of the label platform to the bag platform.

It is preferred that the processor includes a keyboard interface for adjusting the operation of the apparatus. It is further preferred that the processor includes an emergency override separate form the keyboard interface for ceasing operation of the apparatus.

According to another aspect of this invention there is provided an apparatus for applying a label to a bag, the apparatus including a first unwind spool for accommodating a plurality of labels on a backing web wound up to form a label roll, a first set of pinch rollers for driving the web within the apparatus, a second unwind spool for accommodating a bag roll of a plurality of bags, each bag having a connecting zone for connecting adjacent bags, a driven rewind spool which draws the plurality of bags off the second unwind spool, a label dispensing station at which each label is applied onto a target region of each bag, a sensor for sensing the connecting zone and issuing a signal, a processor for controlling operation of the apparatus that receives the signal and controls the first set of pinch rollers and driven rewind spool so as to present each label at the dispensing station when the target region is adjacent the dispensing station, so as to produce a labelled bag.

It is preferred that when the bag is transparent, the sensor includes a laser directing a beam from one side of the bag through the connecting zone, a mirror that reflects the beam, and a receiver for receiving the reflected beam whereby the intensity of the reflected beam alters when the connecting zone is detected for the sensor to send the signal to the processor.

It is preferred that the connecting zone includes a perforation extending across a width dimension of each bag whereby the sensor senses the perforation, wherein the intensity of the reflected beam increases when detecting the perforation. Alternatively it is preferred that the connecting zone includes a seam extending across a width dimension of each bag, the seam defining the bottom of the bag, whereby the sensor senses the seam, wherein the intensity of the reflected beam decreases when detecting the seam. This preferred arrangement is suitable for a welded seam.

The the processor is preferably operable in a continuous mode so as to continuously apply the label to the target region.

It is preferred that the Apparatus include at least one web tensioner for maintaining tension on the backing web as it is driven within the apparatus. It is further preferred that the web tensioner includes a pivotable member having a plurality of bristles that engage the web. The web tensioner preferably includes a biasing means for urging the pivoting member to pivot in a preferred direction to maintain tension on the web.

The processor is preferably programmable to adjust a position of the target region relative to the connecting zone. It is further preferred that the adjustment of the target region is made in a length direction of the bag.

It is preferred that the apparatus include a label platform for supporting at least the first unwind spool and the first set of pinch rollers, a bag platform for supporting at least the second unwind spool and the second set of pinch rollers wherein an alignment of the label platform relative to the bag platform is adjustable to adjust a position of the target region in a width direction of the bag. It is further preferred that the processor is programmable to adjust the alignment of the label platform to the bag platform. It is still further preferred that the processor includes a keyboard interface for adjusting the operation of the apparatus.

It will be convenient to hereinafter describe a preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the attached illustrations. The illustrations however are intended to merely illustrate how the aspects of the invention might be put into effect, so the specific form and arrangement of the various features as shown is not to be understood as limiting on the invention. Furthermore the particularity of the following description is not intended to supersede the generality of the proceeding definition of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is an isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.

Figure 2 is front elevation view of the apparatus from Figure 1 with a label roll and bag roll loaded onto the apparatus.

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a front elevation of the bags passing the dispensing station while the processor is in the continuous mode.

Figure 4 is an isometric view of the apparatus from Figure 3.

Figure 5 is an isometric detailed view of the dispensing station.

Figure 6 is an isometric view of the apparatus while the processor is in batch mode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the labelling apparatus 1 of the invention. The apparatus 1 includes a frame 2 for supporting the components of the apparatus 1 in the preferred spatial arrangement illustrated. In particular the frame supports a bag unwind/rewind module 3, a label module 4 and a processor 5. Each of these features will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

Referring firstly to the bag unwind/rewind module 3, it can be noted from Figure 1 that a bag platform 6 supports a bag unwind spool 7 and bag rewind spool 8. Each spool 7, 8 includes a shaft 9 on which a core (not shown) of a bag roll can be located, whether it be an unwinding bag roll in the case of the unwind spool 7 or a rewinding bag roll in the case of the rewinding spool 8. Each spool 7, 8 also includes a backing plate 10 for facilitating alignment of an edge of the bags relative to the rest of the apparatus 1 .

The bag module 3 also includes a tensioning arm roller 1 1 that maintains tension on the bag web (see Figure 2) as it is stripped off the bag unwind spool 7. The tensioning arm roller 1 1 is preferably spring loaded to cause the bag web to deviate from its path in order to maintain the desired tension on the bag web.

The bag module 3 also includes a series of idler rollers 12 which are positioned between the unwind spool 7 and a bag feeder 13. The idler rollers 12 facilitate maintaining the position of the bag web relative to a sensor 14. The reasoning for this should be apparent having regard to the function of the sensor 14 as described later in this specification.

Figure 1 illustrates a bag feeder 13 in the form of a rectangular feature which houses a set of pinch rollers (see also Figure 3). According to one aspect of the invention the apparatus utilises the pinch rollers to drive the plurality of bags through the apparatus. According to another aspect of the invention the plurality of bags are driven through the apparatus by the rewind spool 8 which is driven. The other aspect may also rely on the pinch rollers in conjunction with the driven rewind spool, however this ie merely preferred.

Figure 1 also illustrates a roller 52, and it can be appreciated from Figure 2 that it is a tensioning arm roller 52. This tensioning arm roller 52 maintains tension on the bag web between the bag feeder 13 and the rewind spool 8. This can be an issue when the rewind spool 8 has significant inertia and the progression of the bag web through the bag feed 13 creates slack. Once the rewind spool 8 accelerates it can create stress in the bag web if the tensioning roller arm 52 is not provided.

The bag module also includes a sensor 14 for sensing a connecting zone 15 (see Figure 5) between adjacent bags on the bag web. The connecting zone 15 will be described in greater detail with reference to latter illustrations. Figure 1 illustrates the preferred form of sensor including a laser 16, mirror 17 and receiver arrangement 18 whereby the laser 16 generates a beam which is directed towards the mirror 17 and the receiver beam is received by the receiver. The intensity of the reflected beam alters when the connecting zone 15 is detected by the receiver, and the sensor sends a signal to the processor 5 to indicate the position of the bag within the apparatus 1 .

Clearly other forms of sensors are possible and may be desirable when the bag web is not transparent. The term transparent for the purpose of this specification is intended to mean having the properties to permit rays of light through its substance. This includes the transmission of laser light. Where the bag web is opaque, some other form of sensor would be desirable.

The label module 4 illustrated includes an unwind spool 19 and a rewind spool 20. Whilst only the unwind spool 7 illustrated includes a backing plate 21 , the rewind spool 20 may also be provided with a backing plate, each spool 19, 20 includes a shaft 22 about which a core of the label roll can fit when the apparatus 1 is in use. The label module 4 also includes a rectangular box shaped feature housing a set of pinch rollers (see Figure 3) for drawing the web of labels through the apparatus 1 . The label module also includes a tension arm 23 for maintaining tension on the web of labels as they are stripped off the unwind spool 20. The label module also includes a series of idler rollers 24 for guiding the web of labels between the unwind spool 19 and the rewind spool 20. All these features are supported on a label platform 25 so as to allow adjustment of the position of the label module relative to the frame. This is achieved by rotating the handle 26 to adjust the alignment of the label module relative to the bag module.

The apparatus also includes the processor 5 for controlling operation of the apparatus 1 . The processor 5 illustrated includes a user interface 27 having a keyboard and a screen for allowing the user to adjust the mode of operation of the apparatus by hand.

Figure 1 also illustrates the apparatus 1 including emergency override 29. Which is connected to the processor 5 but separate from the user interface 27. This emergency override stop 29 allows the user to stop the operation of the apparatus 1 in the event of an emergency. The apparatus 1 also includes a foot operated interface 28 that forms part of the processor 5 for use when the processor 5 is selected to operate in a batch mode which will be hereinafter described with reference to later illustrations.

Referring now to Figure 2 which illustrates the label module 4 and bag module 3 with a label roll 30 and bag roll 31 installed thereon respectively. It can be appreciated from Figure 2 that the label web 32 spooling off the label unwind spool 19 passes around the idler roller 24 before passing around the tensioner arm 23. The tensioner arm 23 illustrated in Figure 2 is preferably biased to pivot in the direction of the arrow A away from the idler roller 24 in order to maintain tension on the label web 32 as it is spooled off the label unwind spool 19. Thereafter the label web 32 passes between another idler roller 24 and a brush tensioner 33, and a further idler roller 24 before entering the dispensing station 34. The dispensing station 34 will be described in greater detail with reference to latter illustrations. Once the label has been attached to the bag at the dispensing station a backing web departs the dispensing station 34 and is drawn past a further idler roller 24 by the pinch rollers 36 before it is wound onto the label rewind spool 20. It is preferred that the motor driving the label pinch rollers 36 also be used to drive the label rewind spool 20, however the label rewind spool 20 may be independently driven by another motor. Referring still to Figure 2 which illustrates the bag web 37 spooling off the bag unwind spool 7 passes around the tension arm 1 1 . The tension arm 1 1 pivots in the direction of the arrow B to maintain tension on the bag web 37 as it spools off the unwind spool 7. Thereafter the bag web 37 passes around the series of idler rollers 12 to present the bag web for sensing by the sensor 14. The way in which the sensor 14 interacts with the bag web 37 will be described in greater detail with reference to latter illustrations. Thereafter the bag web 37 is drawn through the dispensing station 34 by the bag pinch rollers 13. Figure 2 illustrates the bag web 37 passing around the further tensioning roller arm 52 before spooling onto the bag rewind spool 8. The tensioning roller arm 52 is biased to move in the direction of the arrow C. The bag rewind spool 8 is used where the processor 5 is operating in a continuous mode only. The apparatus can be adjusted to allow the processor to operate in a batch mode, and the difference between these two modes of operation will be described in greater detail later in the specification.

Referring now to Figure 3 and 4 which provide a schematic illustration of the components of the label module 4 and the bag module 3, an in particular the location of a label sensor 38 and bag sensor 14. The label sensor 38 and bag sensor 14 interact with the processor 5 so as to present a target region of each bag at the dispensing station 34 in time with each label at the dispensing station 34. Figure 5 illustrates a schematic view of the label web 32 and bag web 37 moving through the dispensing station 34. It can be noted that the dispensing station includes a peel plate 39 so as to disengage each label 40 from its backing web 35. The peel plate 39 is a wedge shape and causes the web 32 to move through a sharp angle. The label 40 itself has sufficient rigidity to project off a leading edge of the peel plate creating a label flag 41 . The backing web 35 is drawn through the dispensing station so as to urge the label flag 41 to project off the leading edge of the peel plate 38 and engage the target region of the bag 42. The processor controls the advancement of the label web 32 through the apparatus in order that the label flag 41 engages the target region. The apparatus 1 the subject of this invention in corporates the sensor 14 which senses a connecting zone 15 between adjacent bags 42, and the processor uses a signal from this bag sensor 14 to control the progression of the bag web 37 through the apparatus 1 to achieve this timing. The connecting zone 15 between adjacent bags preferably includes a perforated separation 43 for separating bags, and/or the weld 44 defining the bottom of each bag 42. In either case the sensor 14 preferably directs the laser beam from one side of the bag 42 to the mirror on the other side of the bag 42. The mirror 17 reflects the laser beam back to the receiver 18 and the intensity of the reflected beam increases or decreases depending upon whether the perforation 43 or weld 44 respectively is sensed.

The label sensor 38 detects the gap between adjacent labels 40 so as to confirm the position on the backing web 35.

The processor 5 is preferably programmable so as to adjust a position of the target region on each bag 42. This may be achieved in the suitable manner however in the embodiment illustrated is it preferred that the processor control the speed of the label pinch roller 36 and the bag pinch rollers 13 so as to adjust the target region in a longitudinal direction of each bag 42. It is particularly preferred that the keyboard interface 27 be used so as to adjust the timing of presentation of the label flap 41 relative to the position of the target region. Referring now to Figure 6 which illustrates an alternate preferred embodiment of the invention whereby the processor 5 operates in a batch mode. In this mode the bag rewind spool is not required as the user has selected that the apparatus operate intermittently. The batch mode may be selected in the event of a small number of label bags being required by the user. The operation of the apparatus by the user in batch mode can incorporate the use of a foot pedal 28 (see Figure 1 ) which can be depressed each time a further labelled bag is required. The bag pinch rollers 13 draw the bag web 37 through the apparatus and then act as a brake allowing the user to separate the bag 42 along the perforation 43. It ought to be appreciated that in the event that the bag web 37 was not perforated, the apparatus may need to include a guillotine or slicing arrangement for separating adjacent bags 42. It will also be appreciated that in such an arrangement the sensor 14 would be sensing the weld only. It ought to be appreciated from the foregoing that the apparatus 1 according to the invention provides the user with greater flexibility in producing a labelled bag. The flexibility of the sensor in detecting the welded seam, and/or perforation is a particular advantage, as it allows the user to use a transparent bag.

The invention described herein is susceptible to variations, modifications and/or additions other than those specifically described and it is to be understood that the invention includes all such variations, modifications and/or additions which fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not to be taken as an admission that that document or matter was, in Australia, known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims.

Future patent applications may be filed in Australia or overseas on the basis of or claiming priority from the present application. It is to be understood that the following provisional claims are provided by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Features may be added to or omitted from the provisional claims at a later date so as to further define or re-define the invention.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1 . Apparatus for applying a label to a bag, the apparatus including a first unwind spool for accommodating a plurality of labels on a backing web wound up to form a label roll, a first set of pinch rollers for driving the web within the apparatus, a second unwind spool for accommodating a bag roll of a plurality of bags, each bag having a connecting zone for connecting adjacent bags, a second set of pinch rollers for driving the bags within the apparatus, a label dispensing station at which each label is applied onto a target region of each bag, a sensor for sensing the connecting zone and issuing a signal, a processor for controlling operation of the apparatus that receives the signal and controls the first set of pinch rollers and second set of pinch rollers so as to present each label at the dispensing station when the target region is adjacent the dispensing station, so as to produce a labelled bag.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the bag is transparent and the sensor includes a laser directing a beam from one side of the bag through the connecting zone, a mirror that reflects the beam, and a receiver for receiving the reflected beam whereby the intensity of the reflected beam alters when the connecting zone is detected for the sensor to send the signal to the processor.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the connecting zone includes a perforation extending across a width dimension of each bag whereby the sensor senses the perforation.

4. Apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the intensity of the reflected beam increases when detecting the perforation.

5. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the connecting zone includes a seam extending across a width dimension of each bag, the seam defining the bottom of the bag, whereby the sensor senses the seam.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the intensity of the reflected beam decreases when detecting the seam.

7. Apparatus according to claim 5 or 6 wherein the seam is a welded seam.

8. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the processor is operable in a continuous mode so as to continuously apply the label to the target region.

9. Apparatus according to claim 8 including a rewind spool to accommodate the bags with the labels applied thereto wound onto the rewind spool to form a labelled bag roll when the processor is operating in the continuous mode.

10. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the processor is operable in a batch mode so as to apply labels to a select number of bags.

1 1 . Apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the second set of pinch rollers acts as a brake once the select number of bags has passed the second set of pinch rollers to facilitate separation of the select number of bags from the remaining roll of bags.

12. Apparatus according to claim 10 or 1 1 wherein the processor controls the first set of pinch rollers and the second set of pinch rollers so as to facilitate dispensing labelled bags individually from the apparatus.

13. Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the processor includes a foot controlled interface to facilitate the dispensing of the labelled bags individually.

14. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including at least one web tensioner for maintaining tension on the backing web as it is driven within the apparatus.

15. Apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the web tensioner includes a pivotable member having a plurality of bristles that engage the web.

16. Apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the web tensioner includes a biasing means for urging the pivoting member to pivot in a preferred direction to maintain tension on the web.

17. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the processor is programmable to adjust a position of the target region relative to the connecting zone.

18. Apparatus according to claim 15 wherein the adjustment of the target region is made in a length direction of the bag.

19. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a label platform for supporting at least the first unwind spool and the first set of pinch rollers, a bag platform for supporting at least the second unwind spool and the second set of pinch rollers wherein an alignment of the label platform relative to the bag platform is adjustable to adjust a position of the target region in a width direction of the bag.

20. Apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the processor is programmable to adjust the alignment of the label platform to the bag platform.

21 . Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the processor includes a keyboard interface for adjusting the operation of the apparatus.

22. Apparatus according to claim 20 wherein the processor includes an emergency override separate form the keyboard interface for ceasing operation of the apparatus.

23. Apparatus for applying a label to a bag, the apparatus including a first unwind spool for accommodating a plurality of labels on a backing web wound up to form a label roll, a first set of pinch rollers for driving the web within the apparatus, a second unwind spool for accommodating a bag roll of a plurality of bags, each bag having a connecting zone for connecting adjacent bags, a driven rewind spool which draws the plurality of bags off the second unwind spool, a label dispensing station at which each label is applied onto a target region of each bag, a sensor for sensing the connecting zone and issuing a signal, a processor for controlling operation of the apparatus that receives the signal and controls the first set of pinch rollers and driven rewind spool so as to present each label at the dispensing station when the target region is adjacent the dispensing station, so as to produce a labelled bag.

24. Apparatus according to claim 23 wherein the bag is transparent and the sensor includes a laser directing a beam from one side of the bag through the connecting zone, a mirror that reflects the beam, and a receiver for receiving the reflected beam whereby the intensity of the reflected beam alters when the connecting zone is detected for the sensor to send the signal to the processor.

25. Apparatus according to claim 23 or 24 wherein the connecting zone includes a perforation extending across a width dimension of each bag whereby the sensor senses the perforation.

26. Apparatus according to claim 25 wherein the intensity of the reflected beam increases when detecting the perforation.

27. Apparatus according to claim 23 or 24 wherein the connecting zone includes a seam extending across a width dimension of each bag, the seam defining the bottom of the bag, whereby the sensor senses the seam.

28. Apparatus according to claim 27 wherein the intensity of the reflected beam decreases when detecting the seam.

29. Apparatus according to claim 27 or 28 wherein the seam is a welded seam.

30. Apparatus according to any one of claims 23 to 29 wherein the processor is operable in a continuous mode so as to continuously apply the label to the target region.

31 . Apparatus according to any one of claims 23 to 30 including at least one web tensioner for maintaining tension on the backing web as it is driven within the apparatus.

32. Apparatus according to claim 31 wherein the web tensioner includes a pivotable member having a plurality of bristles that engage the web.

33. Apparatus according to claim 32 wherein the web tensioner includes a biasing means for urging the pivoting member to pivot in a preferred direction to maintain tension on the web.

34. Apparatus according to any one of claims 23 to 33 wherein the processor is programmable to adjust a position of the target region relative to the connecting zone.

35. Apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the adjustment of the target region is made in a length direction of the bag.

36. Apparatus according to any one of claims 23 to 35 including a label platform for supporting at least the first unwind spool and the first set of pinch rollers, a bag platform for supporting at least the second unwind spool and the second set of pinch rollers wherein an alignment of the label platform relative to the bag platform is adjustable to adjust a position of the target region in a width direction of the bag.

37. Apparatus according to claim 36 wherein the processor is programmable to adjust the alignment of the label platform to the bag platform.

38. Apparatus according to any one of claims 23 to 37 wherein the processor includes a keyboard interface for adjusting the operation of the apparatus.