FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention is directed to a label assembly for application of a label to an object
having a planar and/or a non-planar surface, e.g., an IPOD® electronic music player
or other MP3 player, a personal digital assistant, or a cell phone. The invention
is also directed to a printable sheet of such labels, and a method for printing and/or
applying the printed labels, such as by a consumer.
[0002] Label assemblies for application of labels to non-planar, e.g. rounded surfaces,
such as pens or to planar surfaces, such as CD's or DVD's are known from
US 2008/0093839 A1 and
US 2008/0093841 A1, respectively.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The label assembly of this invention allows for aligning and applying a label to
an object, for example, an object having two or more surfaces at an angle to one another.
The label assembly of this invention is particularly useful in applying a label that
has an intricate/uneven surface and/or is to be wrapped around an object, such as
for decorating or personalizing small consumer electronics such as music players and
cell phones. The label assembly and method of this invention provide correct alignment
of the label on the object to be labeled without the need for a separate label application
apparatus.
[0004] A general object of the invention can be attained through a label assembly according
to the features of claim 1. Other objects and advantages will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with
the appended claims and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005]
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a label assembly being not part of this invention.
FIG.2 is a plan view of a portion of the label assembly of FIG. 1 , viewed from an
opposite side.
FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an operation of the label assembly of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is a plan view of a portion of a label assembly according to another embodiment
being not part of this invention.
FIG. 6 is a plan view of a portion of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment
being not part of this invention.
FIG. 7 is a plan view of a portion of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment
being not part of this invention.
FIG. 8 illustrates an operation of the label assembly of FIG. 7.
FIG.9 is a plan view of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment being
not part of this invention.
FIG. 10 is a plan view of the back side of the label assembly of FIG. 9.
FIG. 11 is a plan view of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment being
not part of this invention.
FIG. 12 is a plan view of the back side of the label assembly of FIG. 11. FIGS. 13
and 14 illustrate an operation of the label assembly of FIGS. 11 and 12.
FIGS. 15 and 16 are plan views of a label assembly according to an embodiment of this
invention.
FIGS. 17 and 18 are plan views of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment
of this invention. FIGS. 19 and 20 are plan views of a label assembly according to
still yet another embodiment of this invention.
FIGS. 21 and 22 are plan views of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment
being not part of this invention.
FIG. 23 illustrates the use of the label assembly of FIGS. 21 and 22.
FIGS. 24 and 25 are alternative configurations of registration tabs according to one
embodiment being not part of this invention.
FIGS. 26 and 27 are plan views of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment
not being part of this invention.
FIG. 28 illustrates a raised position of the label assembly of FIGS. 26 and 27. FIGS.
29 and 30 are plan views of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment not
being part of this invention.
FIG. 31 is a plan view of a label assembly according to yet another embodiment not
being part of this invention.
FIG.32 shows an object labeled according to one embodiment not being part of this
invention.
FIGS. 33 and 34 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly according
to another embodiment not being part of this invention.
FIGS. 35-38 are alternative configurations of registration tabs according to other
embodiments not being part of this invention.
FIGS. 39 and 40 show the back of a label assembly according to still yet another embodiment
of this invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] FIG. 1 shows a label sheet 20 (not necessarily shown to scale). Label sheet 20 is
desirably formed of a face sheet 22 and a back sheet (not shown in FIG. 1). The back
sheet is desirably about the same size as the face sheet 22, but may be slightly larger
or smaller than the face sheet 22. The surface of the face sheet 22 that is disposed
toward the back sheet includes an adhesive material coating. The adhesive coating
can include any adhesive material known and available to those skilled in the art
for forming pressure sensitive, or self-adhesive, labels. The back sheet is desirably
formed of a material to which the adhesive coating adheres significantly less than
to the face sheet 22, such as is known for forming pressure sensitive, or self-adhesive,
labels.
[0007] The sheet 20 is of any suitable shape, and generally any suitable size that can be
accepted by and fed through a printer, such as a laser printer or an ink j et printer.
Common sizes of paper generally fed through printers are 8.5 inches by 5.5 inches,
8.5 inches by 11 inches, 8.263 inches by 11.688 inches (A4 size), and 8.5 inches by
14 inches, however for label sheets such as shown in FIGS. 15-22 the size can be smaller.
The face sheet 22 is preferably, but not necessarily, constructed of any suitable
paper, paper composite, non-metal and/or metal material that can be used as a label.
Other suitable materials for constructing the sheet 22 include fabric, plastic, and
metal foils. The adhesive coating covered by the back sheet is applied to the face
sheet 22 in any suitable manner known to those skilled in the art. The face sheet
22 desirably has a printable surface 24 on a side opposite the adhesive coating.
[0008] The face sheet and the printable surface 24 can be any of a variety of face materials
used to make pressure sensitive or self-adhesive labels. Such face materials may include,
but are not limited to: smudgeproof stock, litho stock, cast coated stock, tag stock,
fluorescent stock, foils, computer printable polyester, vinyl, satin cloth, Tyvek™
material, flexible plastic, book papers, photo quality papers and/or photo quality
film. Furthermore, various portions of the face materials can be different colors,
thereby resulting in different colored parts.
[0009] The phrase "printable surface" relates to a surface of any type of matter upon which
a person or machine can draw, print, color, paint, photocopy, write, emboss, or make
any other type of mark or graphic. Laser printers, ink jet printers, impact printers,
thermal transfer printers, direct thermal printers, typewriters, or any other suitable
graphic printing devices are preferred but not necessary for use with printable surfaces
according to this invention. The face sheet can also be pre-printed by the manufacturer
or retailer with graphics and/or test desirable to a consumer user. The printed surface
can include any desirably image or text, or can be colored or include holographic
images.
[0010] The face sheet 22 includes a plurality of label shapes 3 0, each defining in the
face sheet 22 an individual label according to this invention. The phrase "shape",
or the phrase "removable or tearable shape", is intended to relate to a shape, such
as, but not limited to, the rectangular shapes identified in FIG. 1 by element reference
numerals 30, that can be torn away from a remaining portion 26 of the face sheet 22,
by using tearable lines of separation 32. The term "tearable lines of separation,"
also referred to as simply "tearable lines," "lines of separation" or "separation
lines," relate to physical or structural lines that can be torn to separate a removable
portion or section from the remaining portion or section of the label and/or the label
assembly according to this invention. The label portion of this invention may further
include additional separation lines and/or lines of weakness and/or fold lines to
aid in positioning and/or adhering the label around an object. Lines of separation
and/or lines of weakness according to this invention can be formed of a die-cut line,
a laser die-cut line, a score cut line, a perforation line (such as having a plurality
of cuts and ties), a microperforation line, a chemically etched line, a liquid etched
line, a gas etched line, or any combination of these types of separation, or any other
suitable structure that enables separation. A preferred type of tearable line 32 is
a line that is die-cut. The label shapes 30 can be die-cut along at least a portion
of a periphery, such that the label shapes 30 can be easily removed or separated from
the remaining portion 26 of the sheet 22, for example after the sheet 22 is run through
a printer.
[0011] The back sheet includes a removable panel 40 shown in phantom. The removable panel
is defined by tearable lines of separation (shown as dashed lines 42 in FIG. 1) in
a surface of the back sheet that is disposed opposite the front sheet 22. A removable
panel 40 is disposed over the adhesive coated side of each label shape 30. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the removable panel 40 is desirably and optionally sized
slightly larger than the label shape 30. A remaining portion 44 of the back sheet
that is disposed around, and desirably surrounding, the removable panel 40 includes
a plurality of retainer tabs 46 extending from the remaining portion 44 and adhering
to the label shape 30.
[0012] The label sheet 20 includes a registration structure, embodied in FIG. 1 as two spaced
apart tabs 50 and 52, aligned with each label shape 30 and the removable panel 40.
As will be described in more detail below, the registration structure of this invention
allows for improved and easier application of a label to an object with a non-planer
surface, for example, a pen or a pencil. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the tabs 50
and 52 are each defined on three sides by a tearable line of separation 54 in both
the back sheet and the face sheet 22. The tabs 50 and 52 are raisable to an extended
position by folding outward above the back sheet.
[0013] FIGS. 2-4 illustrate the operation of the label sheet 20 of FIG. 1 for labeling an
object having a non-planar surface, shown as a pen. Desirably first, the label sheet
20 is routed through a printer to print text and/or graphics onto the printable surface
24 of at least one label shape 30. FIG. 2 shows a printed label shape 30 of sheet
20 placed with the printed face sheet 22 downward on a surface. The removable panel
40 of back sheet 48 is removed along lines of separation 42 to expose the adhesive
material 54 on the non-printed side of the label shape 30.
[0014] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the tabs 50 and 52 of the registration structure are raised
by the user above the surface of the back sheet 48. The tabs 50 and 52 are raised
by folding along fold lines 60 and 62, respectively. FIG. 3 shows the label sheet
20 with the removable panel 40 removed and a pen 66 placed against the tabs 50 and
52. As discussed above, desirably the tabs 50 and 52 are formed by one or more die
cuts that extend through both of the back sheet 48 and the face sheet 22, thereby
desirably providing increased tab thickness and thus rigidity for receiving the pen
66 there against. With the pen 66 against the raised tabs 50 and 52, the pen may or
may not be in contact with the adhesive material on the label shape 30 and/or the
remaining portion 26. The tabs 50 and 52 desirably assist the user in positioning
the pen 66 in proper alignment with the label shape 30 to promote or provide a desirable
straight label application. The retainer tabs 46 assist in maintaining the label shape
30 within the face sheet 22 upon removing the removable panel 40 and during positioning
of the pen 66 against the tabs 50 and 52.
[0015] To apply the label shape 30 to the pen 66, the pen 66 is rolled by the user from
the tabs 50 and 52 across the label shape 30, in the direction shown by arrows 68
in FIG. 4. As the pen 66 is rolled, the adhesive material 54 of the label shape 30
adheres to the cylindrical shaft of the pen 66, thereby separating and removing the
label shape 30 from the face sheet 22 and adhering the label shape 30 around the pen
66. Thus, the label 30 can be simply and straightly applied to a rounded or other
non-planar surface manually by a user. The apparatus and method of this invention
can also be incorporated into an automatic or manual label application machine.
[0016] The removable panel and the registration structure of this invention allow for relatively
easier and better placement of a label onto a rounded or otherwise non-planar surface.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art following the teachings herein
provided, various and alternative sizes, shapes, and configurations are available
for the labels, removable panels, and registration structures according to this invention,
such as, without limitation, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of a label sheet 80, viewed from the back sheet 82,
according to another embodiment. The label sheet 80 differs from the embodiment of
FIG. 1 in the shape of tabs 90 and 92 of the registration structure and removable
portion 86. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the tabs 90 and 92 have bent portions 94
and 96, respectively, that can, for example, desirably form a flat edge that in the
raised position is perpendicular to the back sheet 82 and against which a pen or similar
object can be placed. In a similar embodiment, the tabs can be formed as hook-like
tabs that include a portion that extends over and/or around a portion of the pen or
pencil. Also in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the removable portion 86 includes a corner
starter flap, or removal tab, 88 that is adapted to allow for easier removal of the
removable panel 86 by the user.
[0018] Other structures than cut-out tabs are available for the registering structure according
to this invention. In one embodiment, the registration structure comprises an embossed
structure. FIG. 6 shows a label sheet 100 having an embossed structure. In FIG. 6,
the label sheet 100 includes a back sheet 102. A score line 110 is embossed into the
label sheet 100 to provide a raised registration structure against which a pen or
other object can be placed for alignment. Desirably, the score line 110 is only as
high as is needed for the user to determine when an object is being placed against
it. The score line 110 can be formed by scoring the face sheet of the label sheet
100 to cause the score line 110 to be raised above the flat back surface of the label
sheet 100 (desirably without cutting through the label sheet 100). As will be appreciated,
other embossed or raised shapes are available for the embossed registration structure
of this invention, such as, for example, two or more raised domes. Any structure that
is or can be raised above the label assembly of this invention, can be used as a registration
structure for aligning an object, and is contemplated herein.
[0019] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a portion of a label sheet 120, viewed from the back sheet
122, according to another embodiment. The label sheet 120 differs from the embodiment
of FIG. 1 by including an alignment structure 130 in addition to the tabs 142 and
144 forming the registration structure. The alignment structure 130 is formed of a
single alignment tab 132, which in this embodiment of the invention is similar is
size, shape and function to each of the registration structure tabs 142 and 144.
[0020] The registration structure tabs 142 and 144 are disposed adjacent a first side 146
of the label shape 150. The alignment tab 132 is disposed adjacent a second side 152
of label shape 150. As shown in FIG. 8, the alignment structure desirably acts as
an end stop for the pen 160 when the alignment tab 132 is raised above the back sheet
122 by the user. The alignment structure desirably assists in obtaining consistent
placement of the labels on the pen. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the
art following the teachings herein provided, various sizes, shapes, placements and
configurations are available for the alignment structure of this invention. For example,
the additional configurations of the registration structure, such as, for example,
shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, are available for configuration as the alignment structure,
depending on need and the object to be labeled. In another embodiment, more than one
alignment tab can be placed along side 146, or two alignment tabs can be placed on
opposing sides of a label.
[0021] FIGS. 9 and 10 show a label assembly 200 (not necessarily shown to scale) according
to another embodiment. Label assembly 200 is desirably formed of a face sheet 202
having a printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 9, and a back sheet 204, shown
in the view of FIG. 10. The back sheet 204 is desirably about the same size as the
face sheet 202, but may be slightly larger or smaller than the face sheet 202. The
surface of the face sheet 202 that is disposed toward the back sheet 204, and opposite
the printable surface, includes an adhesive material coating.
[0022] The label assembly 200 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 includes two circular label shapes
210 and 210', which will be described herein with reference to label shape 210. The
circular label shape 210 is defined in the face sheet 202 by a first tearable line
of separation 212. The circular label shape 210 desirably has a diameter matched to,
and preferably slightly smaller than, the diameter of a CD or DVD.
[0023] The label assembly 200 further includes a circle 216 cut within the face sheet 202
by a second tearable line 218 and positioned within the label shape 210, preferably
positioned in a center position of the label shape 210. The second, smaller circle
216 is desirably approximately equivalent to either a diameter of an inner cut-out
circle of the CD or DVD, or a diameter of an inner circle on the CD or DVD where a
read/write portion of the CD or DVD adjoins a non-read/write portion of the CD or
DVD. The area of label shape 210 between the two tearable lines 212 and 218 can be
drawn upon, typed upon, or otherwise printed upon, such as when the sheet 200 is run
through a printer, and can then be separated from the back sheet 204 to which the
label shape 210 initially adheres. The label shape 210 can then be adhered to a non-read/write
side of, for example, a CD or DVD.
[0024] The back sheet 204 includes a removable panel 230 defined in the back sheet surface
232 by at least one tearable line of separation 234. The removable panel 230 is disposed
over the label shape 210, and as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, is preferably generally
coextensive the label shape 210. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the removable
panel 230 is optionally divided into two sub-panels 236 and 238, which can assist
in applying the label shape 210 to an object, for example, by allowing for only a
portion of the removable panel 230 to be removed prior to a first adhesion of the
label shape 210 to the object.
[0025] According to one preferred embodiment of this invention, the removable panel 230
includes two removal tabs 240 and 242 extending from a periphery of the back sheet
removable panel 230. Removal tabs 240 and 242 are desirably positioned on opposing
sides of the removable panel 230, such as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Removal tabs 240
and 242 are preferably shaped in such a manner so as to facilitate peeling away of
removable panel 230. In this embodiment, removal tab 240 is associated with sub-panel
236 and removal tab 242 is associated with sub-panel 238. As will be appreciated,
the different angling of removal tab 242, as compared to the angle of removal tab
240, facilitates the removal of the relatively narrow sub-panel 238. The back sheet
204 also includes a plurality of retainer tabs 248 extending from a remaining portion
250 and adhering to the label shape 210. As discussed above, the retainer tabs 248
are particularly useful in holding the label shape 210 in place (and attached to the
remainder of the front sheet 202) while removing the removable panel 230 to expose
the adhesive material on the label shape 210.
[0026] The label assembly 200 includes a registration structure, embodied in FIGS. 9 and
10 as two spaced apart registration tabs 260 and 262, aligned with the label shape
210. As will be described in more detail below, the registration structure of this
embodiment allows for improved and easier application of a label to an object, for
example, a CD or DVD. The tabs 260 and 262 are each defined on three sides by a tearable
line of separation 264 in both the back sheet 204 and the face sheet 202. The tabs
260 and 264 are raisable to an extended position by folding outward above the back
sheet 204. In FIG. 10, fold line 266 shows where the tab 260 will desirably be folded,
and can be imaginary or a perforated or otherwise scored fold line.
[0027] According to one preferred embodiment of this invention, when the removable panel
230 is peeled away or otherwise removed from label shape 210, a center hole in label
shape 210 is opened by the removal of the portion of the label assembly 200 within
circle 216. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the center hole of label shape
210, defined by circle 216, may be opened upon removal of the removable panel sub-panel
236 using a die cut 270 extending partially along a perimeter of the circle 216 and
in both face sheet 202 and back sheet 204. A similar use of such a die cut is described
in commonly assigned
U.S. Patent 6,881,461, herein incorporated by reference.
[0028] The die cut 270 is preferably generally arcuate and positioned along a side of the
circle 216 that corresponds with a side of the first circle 216 that is removed first.
As shown in FIG. 10, the die cut 270 is disposed on the side of circle 216 toward
the removal tab 240. According to an embodiment of die cut 270 having an arcuate shape,
the arc preferably extends between approximately 1° and 180° along the circle 216
and more preferably extends between approximately 5° and 90° along the circle 216.
Alternative designs for facilitating the removal of the portion of the label assembly
200 within circle 216 are also available for use in this invention.
[0029] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate a label assembly 300 according to yet another embodiment.
The label assembly 300 includes a front sheet 302 having a printable surface and an
adhesive material coating a surface opposite the printable surface. A back sheet 304
is disposed over the adhesive material.
[0030] Two label shapes 310 and 310' are defined in the face sheet 302, and will be discussed
herein with reference to label shape 310. Circular label shape 310, appropriately
sized for use in labeling a CD or DVD, is defined in the face sheet by a tearable
line of separation 312. A removable panel 314 is defined in the surface of the back
sheet 304 by a tearable line of separation 316, and is disposed over the label shape
310.
[0031] The label assembly 300 includes a registration structure aligned with the label shape
310 and the removable panel 314. In the embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12, the registration
structure includes three spaced apart registration tabs 320, 322, and 324, each defined
on three sides by a tearable line of separation 326, 328, and 330, respectively, in
both the back sheet 304 and the face sheet 302. The registration tabs 320, 322, and
324 are raisable above the back sheet by folding outward, such as about the fold line
332.
[0032] A first circle 340 is cut within the face sheet 302 by a tearable line of separation
342 and positioned within the label shape 310. A second circle 344 is also cut within
the face sheet 302 by a tearable line of separation 346, and nested within a first
perimeter of the first circle 340. A plurality of nested circular removable label
shapes 310, 352, and 354 are thus located within the circle formed by tearable line
312. As discussed above, the ring-shaped removable label shape 310 formed between
tearable lines 312 and 342 can be adhered to a non-read/write side of the read/write
portion of a CD or DVD as a label. Similarly, the ring-shaped removable shape 352
formed between tearable lines 342 and 346 can be adhered to the small non-read/write
portion of a CD or DVD as a label. The removable shape 354 is desirably sized to leave
an opening that corresponds to the center opening of a CD or DVD.
[0033] Various and alternative sizes, shapes, and configurations are available for the removable
label shapes of this invention. For example, label shapes 310, 352, and 354 are preferably
but not necessarily ring-shaped or circular, as label shapes 310,352, and 354 can
also have any polygonal shape or any other suitable non-circular shape. As another
example, an optional further ring-shaped portion (not shown) can be formed between
shapes 310 and 3 52 to serve as a discardable spacer.
[0034] The back sheet removable panel 314 includes two removal tabs 360 and 362 extending
from a periphery of the removable panel 314. Removal tabs 360 and 362 are desirably
positioned on opposing sides of the removable panel 314. As discussed above, removal
tabs 360 and 362 are preferably shaped in such a manner so as to facilitate peeling
away of removable panel 314. The back sheet 304 also includes a plurality of retainer
tabs 364 extending from a back sheet remaining portion 366 and adhering to the label
shape 310. The retainer tabs 364 assist in holding the label shape 310 in place, e.g.,
and attached to the remainder of the front sheet 202, while removing the removable
panel 314 to expose the adhesive material on the back side of the label shape 310.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, each of the spaced apart registration
tabs 320, 322, and 324 is aligned with one of the plurality of retainer tabs 364.
[0035] According to one preferred embodiment of this invention, when the removable panel
314 is peeled away or otherwise removed from label shape 310, a center hole in label
shape 310 is opened by the removal of either only label shape 354 or both label shapes
352 and 354. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, whether only shape 354 is
removed with the removable panel 314 or both shapes 352 and 354 are removed with the
removable panel 314 is controlled by which of removal tabs 360 and 362 is used to
remove the removable panel 314.
[0036] The label assembly 300 includes a first die cut 370 extending in a first arc partially
along a perimeter of the first circle 340 and in the face sheet 302 and the back sheet
304. A second die cut 372 extends in a second arc partially along a perimeter of the
second circle 344 and in the face sheet 302 and the back sheet 304. Both the first
and second arcs extend between approximately 1° and 180°, and more desirably between
approximately 5° and 90°, along the first and second circles 340 344, respectively.
The first arc die cut 370 is disposed on a side of the first circle 340 toward the
first removal tab 360. The second arc die cut 372 is disposed on a side of the second
circle 344 toward the second removal tab 362.
[0037] Removing the removable panel 314 by grasping removal tab 360 and peeling removable
panel 314 from the back sheet 304 (generally in a direction toward the opposing tab
362) results in removal of both label shapes 352 and 354 from the front sheet 302.
The die cut 370 desirably causes the label shapes 352 and 354 to continue adhering
to the removable panel 314 and to separate (along tearable line 342) from the front
sheet 302. Removing the removable panel 314 by grasping the second removal tab 362
and peeling removable panel 314 from the back sheet 304 (generally in a direction
toward the opposing tab 360) desirably results in removal of only label shape 354
from the front sheet 302. As there is not die cut like die cut 370 in this direction
along the perimeter of circle 340, the shape 352 remains attached to the front sheet
302. The die cut 372 causes the label shape 354, however, to continue adhering to
the removable panel 314 and to separate (along tearable line 344) from the front sheet
302. Thus the label assembly user can choose between two alternative shapes of label
shape 310, i.e., one version keeping the shape portion 352 attached to cover more
surface of the CD or DVD, or a second version without the shape portion 352.
[0038] The invention further provides a method for labeling an object using the label assembly,
such as label assembly 300. First, the label assembly user routes the label assembly
300 through a printer to print the desired text and/or graphic on the printable surface
of label shape 310. The label assembly 330 is desirably placed on a flat hard surface
with the printed face sheet 302 downward. The user removes the removable panel 314
using one of the two opposing removal tabs 360 or 362 to expose the adhesive material
on the label shape 310. The user raises the registration structure by breaking the
tearable lines 326, 328 and 330 and folding the registration tabs 320,322, and 324
above the surface of the back sheet 304. The user then places the object against the
registration tabs 320, 322, and 324 and then lowers the object to adhere the label
shape 310 to the object.
[0039] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate the use of the label assembly 300. In FIG. 13, the user
390 is peeling the removable panel 314 from the back sheet 304 to expose the adhesive
coated side 392 of the label shape 310. The user 390 is peeling by grasping removal
tab 360, and thus both label shapes 352 and 354 are removed from the front sheet 302
and stay adhered to the removable panel 314 to provide an opening 394 in label shape
310.
[0040] In FIG. 14, the registration tabs 320, 322, and 324 are folded upward, the removable
panel 314 is fully removed, and compact disc 396 is placed against the registration
tabs 320, 322, and 324 and on the adhesive side of the label shape 310. Placing the
compact disc 396 against registration tabs 320, 322, and 324 facilitates proper alignment
of the compact disc 396 over the label shape 310, thereby promoting the desired placement
of the label shape 310 on the compact disc 396 without a separate label application
apparatus. The labeled compact disc 396 can then simply be lifted from the label assembly
300.
[0041] FIGS. 15 and 16 show the back and front, respectively, of a label assembly 400 according
to another embodiment of this invention. Label assembly 400 includes a face sheet
402 having a printed or printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 16, and an adjacent
back sheet 404, shown in the view of FIG. 15. The back sheet 404 is desirably about
the same size as the face sheet 402, but may be slightly larger or smaller than the
face sheet 402. The surface of the face sheet 402 that is disposed toward the back
sheet 404, and opposite the printed or printable surface, includes an adhesive material
coating.
[0042] The label assembly 400 shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 includes a plurality of label shapes,
and more particularly two label shapes 410 and 410'. The two label shapes 410 and
410' can be the same or have different sizes and/or printed patterns, and will be
described herein with reference to label shape 410.
[0043] The label shape 410 is defined at an outer periphery by a tearable line of separation
412. In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the label shape
410 is particularly adapted to be applied to an object having a non-planar and/or
more than one surface. The illustrated embodiment is particularly useful in aligning
label shape 410 to an object having a planar surface wherein the label is to be applied
to a front surface and also wrapped around a side or back surface. In one embodiment
of this invention, the label assembly is particularly useful for labeling or personalizing
objects having a three-dimensional box-like configuration, including, without limitation,
personal electronics such as cell phones, PDAs, digital cameras, netbooks or MP3 players,
and also any other objects such as credit cards, RF or SIM chip cards, picture frames,
photo or keepsake boxes, jewelry boxes, toy cases, etc.
[0044] In the embodiment of FIGS. 15 and 16, label shape 410 is configured to be applied
to an IPOD® music player, although changes in the size, shape and configuration of
the label shape can be made to accommodate other objects. Label shape 410 includes
additional shapes defined within the periphery by additional tearable lines of separation.
The label shape 410 includes a circle 414 cut within the face sheet 402 by a second
tearable line of separation 416 and a rectangular shape 418 cut within the face sheet
402 by a third tearable line of separation 420. As can be seen in FIG. 15, these lines
of separation 416 and 420 are cut only in the face sheet 402 and correspond to the
control mechanism and view screen of the music player, such as shown in the embodiment
of FIG. 20.
[0045] The back sheet 404 includes a removable panel 430 defined in the back sheet surface
432 by at least one tearable line of separation 434 extending around the outer periphery
of removable panel 430. The removable panel 430 is disposed over the label shape 410,
and as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, is preferably generally coextensive with label shape
410. The back sheet 404 also includes a plurality of retainer tabs 436 extending from
a remaining portion 440 surrounding the removable panel 430 and adhering to the label
shape 410. As discussed above, the retainer tabs 436 are particularly useful in holding
the label shape 410 in place (and attached to the remaining portion 438 of the front
sheet 402) while removing the removable panel 430 to expose the adhesive material
on the label shape 410.
[0046] In one embodiment of this invention, such as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the removable
panel 430 is divided into at least two sub-panels, which can assist in applying the
label shape 410 to an object, for example, by allowing for only a portion of the removable
panel 430 to be removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 410 to the object
and the subsequent removal or a second panel for wrapping the additional portion of
the label shape 410 around a different surface (e.g., a side and/or back surface)
of the object. In the embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 15, the removable
panel 430 includes a center panel portion between two side panel portions 444 and
446. The center panel portion is divided from each of the side panel portions 444
and 446 by a corresponding line of separation 448 and 450, respectively, cut within
the back sheet 404 only. The center panel portion can also include the optional corner
starter flap, or removal tab, 455 that is adapted to allow for easier removal of the
center panel portion by the user. The side panel portions can also optionally include
such removal tabs.
[0047] The label assembly 400 includes a registration structure, embodied in FIGS. 15 and
16 as four spaced apart registration tabs 460 aligned with a portion of the label
shape 410. As described above, the registration structure of this embodiment also
allows for improved and easier application of a label to an object, for example, an
MP3 player. The tabs 460 are each defined on three sides by one or more tearable lines
of separation in the back sheet 404. The tabs 460 are raisable to an extended position
by folding outward above the back sheet 404. In FIG. 15, fold line 462 shows where
the tab 460 will desirably be folded, and can be imaginary or a perforated or otherwise
scored fold line.
[0048] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the registration structure is positioned
within an outer periphery of the removable panel 430 and defined in only the back
sheet 404. More particularly, at least one, and desirably each, of the two side panel
portions 444 and 446 includes one or more of the registration tabs 460. The registration
tabs 460 are disposed adjacent to and along an edge of the center panel portion. In
one embodiment of this invention, the registration tabs 460 are defined on a side
adjacent to the center panel portion by the lines of separation 448 and 450, respectively,
that are defining the center panel portion. The tabs 460 are each defined on the remaining
sides by tearable line of separation 464.
[0049] Upon removing the center panel portion, the object to be labeled can be aligned over
the adhesive area that is under the center panel portion using the raised registration
tabs 460. The label assembly 400 further includes an optional alignment structure
aligned with a portion of the label shape 430 and also one of raised or raisable above
the back sheet. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the alignment structure
includes two alignment tabs 470 each defined by a tearable line of separation 472
and positioned external of the outer periphery of the removable panel 430. The tearable
lines of separation 472 can be cut within the back sheet 402 or both the front sheet
402 and the back sheet 404 as they are positioned external of the removable panel
430.
[0050] The invention further includes a method for labeling an object with a label from
the label assembly 400. As discussed above, label assembly 400 can be pre-printed
or printable. If the label assembly is printable, the consumer can print custom images
or text on the printable surface of the face sheet 402 with a printer prior to labeling
an object. The printed label assembly 400 is placed on a surface with the face sheet
402 downward on the surface. The center panel portion of the removable panel 430 is
removed, such as by using starter flap 455, to expose the adhesive material on a first
portion of the label shape 410. The registration tabs 460 and the alignment tabs 470
are raised either before or after the center panel portion is removed. A surface of
the object (not shown) is placed over the adhesive material and kept in proper alignment
using the tabs 460 and 470. A portion of label shape 410 is adhered to the object
surface by placing the object on the exposed adhesive material while the object is
against the tabs 460 and 470. Once the object surface is adhered, the side panels
444 and 446 can be removed to expose the adhesive material on the remaining label
shape 410. The side portions of the label shape 410 are then applied to the object,
for example, by folding the side portions of the label shape 410 along fold lines
480 to wrap the side portions around side and/or back surfaces of the object.
[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the object is placed on the surface and the label assembly
is placed over the object for labeling the object. In such an embodiment, the tabs
460 and 470 can be preferably sized according to a height of the object on the surface,
to hold the label shape just over the object. The label shape can then be applied
by pressing down on the label shape.
[0052] The invention also includes software for printing on the label shape. The software
is executable on a data processor attached to a printer and includes templates for
allowing the user to apply text or images in the desired location on the label shape
(e.g., to avoid the view screen area). The software can include, on a recordable medium,
numerous templates each corresponding to one label shape for a known consumer device.
[0053] FIGS. 17 and 18 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly 500 according
to another embodiment of this invention. Label assembly 500 includes a face sheet
502 having a printed or printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 17, and an adjacent
back sheet 504, shown in the view of FIG. 18. The surface of the face sheet 502 that
is disposed toward the back sheet 504, and opposite the printed or printable surface,
includes an adhesive material coating.
[0054] The label assembly 500 shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 includes a single label shape 510,
but could alternatively include two or more. The label shape 510 is defined at an
outer periphery by a tearable line of separation 512. In the embodiment of the invention
shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the label shape 510 is also particularly adapted to be applied
to an object having non-planar or more than one surface. The illustrated embodiment
is particularly useful in aligning label shape 510 to an object having a planar surface
wherein the label is to be wrapped around a side or back surface. As discussed above
for FIGS. 15 and 16, label shape 510 is shown as a label suitable for a current IPOD®
music player, but the application means of the embodiment of FIGS. 17 and 18 could
be applied using other sizes and shapes of label shapes for other devices, such as
consumer electronics or and any other object.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 17, the label shape 510 includes additional shapes defined within
the periphery by additional tearable lines of separation. The label shape 510 includes
two circles 514 and 515 cut within only the face sheet 502 by tearable lines of separation
516 and 517, respectively, which coordinate to the click-wheel and button of the IPOD®
player. A rectangular shape 518 is also cut within the face sheet 502 by a tearable
line of separation 520 and corresponds to the view screen of the IPOD® player. The
tearable lines of the face sheet 502 are shown in phantom in FIG. 18 to illustrate
the positioning with the tearable lines and panels of the back sheet 504.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 18, the back sheet 504 includes a removable panel 530 defined in
the back sheet surface 532 by at least one tearable line of separation 534 extending
around the outer periphery of removable panel 530. The removable panel 530 is disposed
over a portion, e.g., a majority, of the label shape 510. The removable panel 530
is not exactly coextensive with label shape 510 and extends beyond the label shape
510 on three sides and the label shape 510 extends beyond the removable panel 530
on the fourth side.
[0057] The removable panel 530 is divided into two sub-panels, which can assist in applying
the label shape 510 to an object, for example, by allowing for only a portion of the
removable panel 530 to be removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 510
to the object and the subsequent removal or a second panel for wrapping the additional
portion of the label shape 510 around a different surface (e.g., a side and/or back
surface) of the object. In the embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 18, the
removable panel 530 includes two panel portions 544 and 546. The panel portions 544
and 546 are divided from each other by a line of separation 548, cut within the back
sheet 504 only. The panel portions 544 and 546 each include an optional corner starter
flap, or removal tab, 555 that is adapted to allow for easier removal of the panel
portions 544 and 546 by the user.
[0058] The label assembly 500 includes a registration structure, embodied in FIG. 18 as
four spaced apart registration tabs 560 aligned with a portion of the label shape
510. The tabs 560 are each defined on three sides by one or more tearable lines of
separation in the back sheet 504. The tabs 560 are raisable to an extended position
by folding outward above the back sheet 504. In FIG. 18, fold lines 562 show where
the tab 560 will desirably be folded, and can be imaginary or a perforated or otherwise
scored fold line.
[0059] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, a portion of the registration structure is positioned
within an outer periphery of the removable panel 530 and defined in only the back
sheet 504. More particularly, the side panel portion 544 includes two of the registration
tabs 560. The registration tabs 560 of side panel portion 544 are disposed adjacent
to and along an edge of the other panel portion 546. In this embodiment of this invention,
the additional two registration tabs 560 are positioned external of the outer periphery
of the removable panel 530 and on an opposite side of the side panel portion 546 from
side panel portion 544. However, in this embodiment all tabs 560 are cut only in the
back sheet 504, as the label sheet 510 extends over at least a portion of each of
the tabs 560. Each of the registration tabs 560 is defined on a side adjacent to the
panel portion 546 by the line of separation 548 and 534, respectively. The tabs 560
are defined on the remaining sides by tearable line of separation 564.
[0060] Upon removing the panel portion 546, the object to be labeled can be aligned over
the adhesive area that is under the panel portion 546 using the raised registration
tabs 560. The label assembly 500 further includes an optional alignment structure
aligned with a portion of the label shape 530 and also one of raised or raisable above
the back sheet. The alignment structure includes two alignment tabs 570 defined by
a tearable line of separation 572 and positioned external of the outer periphery of
the removable panel 530. The tearable line of separation 572 can be cut within the
back sheet 504 or both the front sheet 502 and the back sheet 504 as shown in FIGS.
17 and 18, as they are positioned external of the removable panel 530 and label shape
510.
[0061] In one embodiment of this invention, the label assembly 500 includes a removal facilitation
structure for aiding the user in removing the matrix 568 from the label sheet 510
upon adhering an object to the panel portion 546. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the
removal facilitation structure includes a die cut 580 in the back sheet 504 extending
between the removable panel 530 and an outer edge 582 of the back sheet 504. The die
cut 580 is used in cooperation with a die cut 5 84 in the front sheet 502 that extends
from the label shape 510 to an edge 586 of the front sheet 502. Preferably, the die
cut 580 and the die cut 584 are at least partially offset from each other to help
maintain the matrix 568 connection until torn by the user. In the embodiment shown
in FIGS. 17 and 18, the die cut 584 is curved and intersects with the die cut 580
at the edge 586 of the face sheet 502.
[0062] The label assembly 500 is used in a similar manner as the label assembly 400 discussed
above. If the label assembly 500 is to be printed upon, the user feeds the label assembly
500 through a suitable printer. To facilitate printing the tabs 560 have the fold
lines 562 disposed toward the printing feed direction to reduce the chance of the
tabs 560 being raised during printing.
[0063] Either the object to be labeled or the label assembly 500 is placed on a surface.
The panel portion 546 is removed and the tabs 560 and 570 are raised. When the label
assembly is placed face sheet down on the surface, the object is placed over the exposed
adhesive material and kept in proper alignment using the tabs 460 and 470. Alternatively,
the label assembly 500 with the removed panel portion 546 can be placed from above
onto an object placed on a surface. The tabs 460 and 470 align the label shape 510
over the object as the label assembly 500 is lowered onto the object. The tabs 560
and 570 can act as legs to stand the label assembly over the object until the user
pats the exposed adhesive against the object to adhere the label shape 510 to the
object. Desirably, the tabs are appropriately sized to a thickness of the object.
[0064] Once the label shape 510 is partially adhered to the object, the other panel portion
544 is removed, and the matrix is removed from the label shape 510. The removal of
the matrix is facilitated by the user separating die cuts 580 and 584 and tearing
the matrix from around label shape 510. The label shape can then be wrapped around
the object. Where the object has rounded sides, such as an IPOD®, the object can be
rolled on the label shape 510 on the flat surface to adhere the additional portions
of the label shape to the object. Desirably the edges of the wrapped label sheet meet
end to end, but overlap or a gap are also possible.
[0065] FIGS. 19 and 20 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly 600 according
to another embodiment of this invention. Label assembly 600 is a variation of the
label assembly 500 shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. Label assembly 600 includes a face sheet
602 having a printed or printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 19, and an adjacent
back sheet 604, shown in the view of FIG. 20. An adhesive material is disposed between
the face sheet 602 and the back sheet 604.
[0066] The label assembly 600 shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 includes a single label shape 610,
but could alternatively include two or more. The label shape 610 is defined at an
outer periphery by a tearable line of separation 612. In the embodiment of the invention
shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the label shape 610 is also particularly adapted to be applied
to an object having non-planar or more than one surface. Label shape 610 is also shown
as a label suitable for a current IPOD® music player, including two circles 614 and
615 cut within only the face sheet 602 which coordinate to the click-wheel and button
of the IPOD® player, respectively, and rectangular shape 618 cut within the face sheet
602 to correspond to the view screen of the IPOD® player. The application means of
the embodiment of FIGS. 19 and 20 could be applied using other sizes and shapes of
label shapes for other devices, such as consumer electronics or and any other object.
[0067] In one embodiment of this invention, an arcuate die cut can be used as discussed
above to facilitate removal of the circles 614 and/or 615 from label shape 610 if
desired. If the center circle 615 is desired, but not the outer circle 614, an adhesive
strip (such as a paper strip with a tacky but not permanent adhesive) or equivalent
can be placed across the face sheet 602 and over the circles 614 and 615. When the
removable panel 630 is removed, the outer circle 614 can be removed while the inner
circle is held in place by the adhesive strip.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 20, the back sheet 604 includes a removable panel 630 defined in
the back sheet surface 632 by at least one tearable line of separation 634 extending
around the outer periphery of removable panel 630. In this embodiment of the invention,
the removable panel 630 is generally coextensive with label shape 610 on three sides
which include plurality of retainer tabs 636 extending on three sides from a remaining
portion 640 surrounding the removable panel 630 and adhering to the label shape 610.
As discussed above, the retainer tabs 636 are particularly useful in holding the label
shape 610 in place (and attached to the remaining portion 638 of the front sheet 602)
while removing the removable panel 630 to expose the adhesive material on the label
shape 610. On the fourth side of label shape 610, the tearable line defining the periphery
of the removable panel 630 is optionally offset from the tearable line defining the
periphery of the label shape 610 to allow a portion of label shape 610 to be wrapped
around one side of the object to be labeled.
[0069] The removable panel 630 is divided into two sub-panels, which can assist in applying
the label shape 610 to an object, for example, by allowing for only a portion of the
removable panel 630 to be removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 610
to the object and the subsequent removal or a second panel for wrapping the additional
portion of the label shape 610 around a different surface (e.g., a side and/or back
surface) of the object. In the embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 20, the
removable panel 630 includes two panel portions 644 and 646. The panel portions 644
and 646 are divided from each other by a line of separation 648, cut within the back
sheet 604 only. One or both of the panel portions 644 and 646 can include an optional
corner starter flap, or removal tab, 655 that is adapted to allow for easier removal
of the panel portions 644 and/or 646 by the user.
[0070] The registration structure of the label assembly 600 includes four spaced apart registration
tabs 660 aligned with a portion of the label shape 610. In this embodiment of the
invention, the tabs 660 are each defined on three sides by one or more tearable lines
of separation in only the back sheet 604. The tabs 660 are raisable to an extended
position by folding outward above the back sheet 604 at perforated or otherwise scored
fold lines 662.
[0071] Similar to the embodiment discussed above in FIGS. 17 and 18, a portion of the registration
structure is positioned within an outer periphery of the removable panel 630 and defined
in only the back sheet 604. More particularly, the side panel portion 644 includes
two of the registration tabs 660. The registration tabs 660 of side panel portion
644 are disposed adjacent to and along an edge of the other panel portion 646. In
this embodiment of this invention, the additional two registration tabs 660 are positioned
external of the outer periphery of the removable panel 630 and on an opposite side
of the side panel portion 646 from side panel portion 644. However, in this embodiment
all tabs 660 are cut only in the back sheet 604, as the label sheet 610 extends over
at least a portion of each of the tabs 660.
[0072] Upon removing the panel portion 646, the object to be labeled can be aligned over
the adhesive area that is under the panel portion 646 using the raised registration
tabs 660. The label assembly 600 further includes optional opposing alignment tabs
670 defined by a tearable line of separation 672 and positioned external of the outer
periphery of the removable panel 630. In this embodiment, the tearable lines of separation
672 are cut only within the back sheet 602 because of the placement of the tabs 670
within corresponding retainer tabs 636. Alternative configurations could allow for
the tabs 670 to be cut within both of the front sheet 602 and back sheet 604 for extra
rigidity. The label assembly 600 is used in a similar manner as the label assembly
500 discussed above.
[0073] FIGS. 21 and 22 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly 700. Label
assembly 700 includes a face sheet 702 having a printed or printable surface, shown
in the view of FIG. 21, and an adjacent back sheet 704, shown in the view of FIG.
22. The surface of the face sheet 702 that is disposed toward the back sheet 704,
and opposite the printed or printable surface, includes an adhesive material coating.
[0074] The label assembly 700 shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 includes a label shape 710. The label
shape 710 is defined at an outer periphery by a tearable line of separation 712. In
the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the label shape 710 is also particularly
adapted to be applied to an object having a side with more than one area or surface
for receiving a label. The illustrated embodiment is particularly useful in aligning
label shape 710 to a cell phone or smart phone, such as a BLACKBERRY® smart phone
or IPHONE™, but the application means of the embodiment of FIGS. 21 and 22 could be
applied using other sizes and shapes of label shapes for other devices, such as consumer
electronics or and any other object.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 21, the label shape 710 includes additional shapes defined within
the periphery 712 by additional tearable lines of separation. Label shape 710 includes
two shapes 714 and 715 cut within only the face sheet 702 by tearable lines of separation
716 and 717, respectively, which define the labels to be applied to surfaces of the
obj ect to be labeled. A rectangular shape 718 is also cut within the face sheet 702
by a tearable line of separation 720 and corresponds to the view screen of the smart
phone. Other shapes defined by tearable lines include shape 722 which corresponds
to the keyboard, shape 724 which corresponds to a decorative feature, and shapes 726
and 728 which correspond to functional features such as, for example, microphone and/or
speaker openings of the smart phone. As shown in FIG. 22, the back sheet 704 can include
arcuate or otherwise corresponding die cuts 727 and 729, respectively, along a portion
of the shapes 726 and 728, as described above, to assist in maintaining the connection
of shapes 726 and 728 to the removable panel 730.
[0076] Removable panel 730 defined in the back sheet surface 732 by at least one tearable
line of separation 734 extending around the outer periphery of removable panel 730.
The removable panel 730 is disposed over label shape 710. In this embodiment of the
invention, the removable panel 730 is not exactly coextensive with label shape 710
and extends beyond the label shape 710 on all four sides. In this embodiment, as only
one side of the object is to be labeled, the removable panel 730 comprises a single
panel to be removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 710 to the object.
[0077] The label assembly 700 includes a registration structure, embodied in FIG. 22 as
four spaced apart registration tabs 760 aligned with a portion of the label shape
710. The tabs 760 are each defined on three sides by one or more tearable lines of
separation in the back sheet 704. The tabs 760 are raisable to an extended position
by folding outward above the back sheet 704. In FIG. 22, fold lines 762 show where
the tab 760 will desirably be folded, and can be imaginary or a perforated or otherwise
scored fold line.
[0078] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22, each of the registration tabs 760 includes a
foldable portion 764 foldable about a tab fold line 766, which can be imaginary or
a perforated or otherwise scored fold line. The registration tabs 760 in the embodiment
of FIG. 22 are disposed external of the periphery of the label shape 710 (shown in
phantom in FIG. 22) and the removable panel 730. In this embodiment of the invention,
the tabs 760 are cut only in the back sheet 704, but could optionally be cut within
the face sheet 702 as well.
[0079] Upon removing the removable panel 730, the object to be labeled can be aligned over
the adhesive area that is under the panel 730 using the raised registration tabs 760.
The label assembly 700 further includes an optional alignment structure aligned with
a portion of the label shape 730 and also one of raised or raisable above the back
sheet. The alignment structure includes two alignment tabs 770 defined by a tearable
line of separation 772 and also positioned external of the outer periphery of the
removable panel 730 and label shape 710. The tearable line of separation 772 can be
cut within the back sheet 702 or both the front sheet 702 and the back sheet 704 as
shown in FIGS. 21 and 22.
[0080] The label assembly is used in a manner similar to described above. If the label assembly
700 is to be printed upon, the user feeds the label assembly 700 through a suitable
printer. Either the object to be labeled or the label assembly 700 is placed on a
surface. The tabs 760 and 770 are raised above the back sheet 704 and the removable
panel 730 is removed. In one embodiment of this invention, the object to be labeled
is placed on a flat surface, such as a table. Each of the foldable portions 764 are
folded about fold line 766 in a direction away from fold line 762 so that the foldable
portion is at an angle to the remaining portion of the corresponding tab 760 and extending
over an exposed portion of the face sheet 702.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 23, the label assembly 700 with the removed panel 730 is placed
onto the object 790 (shown in phantom) from above. The tabs 760 and 770 align the
label shape 710 over the object as the label assembly 700 is lowered onto the object
730. The tabs 760 and 770 can act as legs to stand the label assembly over the object
until the user pats the exposed adhesive against the object to adhere the label shape
710 to the object. Desirably, the tabs are appropriately sized, e.g., slightly taller,
to a thickness of the object.
[0082] The foldable portions 764 provide additional strength for the tabs 760 when functioning
as "legs" in use as shown in FIG. 23. The foldable portions 764 contact the underside
of the remaining matrix 768 of the face sheet 702 to help keep the tabs 760 from collapsing
and maintaining the label shape 710 at the desired location above the object 790 until
final application. As will be appreciated various sizes, shapes and configurations
are available for the registration tabs and foldable portions thereof of this invention.
In one embodiment of this invention, the edge of the foldable portion 764 that contacts
the bottom of the face sheet 702 is angled as shown in FIG. 24 to facilitate contact
with the face sheet 702 while maintaining a desired substantially perpendicular position
of tab 760 when extended. An alternative edge configuration is shown in FIG. 25, where
the edge 764 is cut higher than fold line 762 by a thickness of the back sheet 704.
[0083] Once the label shape 710 is partially adhered to the object the matrix is removed
from the label shape 710. The removal of the matrix is facilitated by the user separating
die cut 712 and tearing the matrix from around label shape 710.
[0084] FIGS. 26 and 27 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly 800 according
to another embodiment of this invention. Label assembly 800 includes a face sheet
802 having a printed or printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 27, and an adjacent
back sheet 804, shown in the view of FIG. 26. An adhesive material is disposed between
the face sheet 802 and the back sheet 804.
[0085] The label assembly 800 shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 includes a single label shape 810,
but could alternatively include two or more. The label shape 810 is defined at an
outer periphery by a tearable line of separation 812. In the embodiment of the invention
shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the label shape 810 is also particularly adapted to be applied
to an object having non-planar or more than one surface. Label shape 810 is also shown
as a label suitable for a current IPHONE® smart phone, including shapes 814 cut within
only the face sheet 802 which coordinate to components of the IPHONE®, and rectangular
shape 816 cut within the face sheet 802 to correspond to the view screen of the IPHONE®.
As discussed above, arcuate die cuts 818 in the back sheet 804 can be used to facilitate
removal of the shapes 814 from label shape 810 if desired. The application means of
the embodiment of FIGS. 26 and 27 could be applied using other sizes and shapes of
label shapes for other devices, such as consumer electronics or and any other object.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 26, the back sheet 804 includes a removable panel 830 defined in
the back sheet surface 832 by at least one tearable line of separation 834 extending
around the outer periphery of removable panel 830. The removable panel 830 includes
a portion of an outer periphery that is offset from a portion of an outer periphery
of the label shape. The removable panel 830 in the illustrated embodiment is also
divided into three sub-panels, which can assist in applying the label shape 810 to
an object, for example, by allowing for only a portion of the removable panel 830
to be removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 810 to the object and the
subsequent removal of a remaining panels for wrapping the additional portions of the
label shape 810 around a different surface (e.g., a side and/or back surface) of the
object. In the embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 26, the removable panel
830 includes three panel portions 844, 846, and 848. The panel portions 844, 846,
and 848 are divided from each adjacent panel portion by a line of separation 850 and/or
852, cut within the back sheet 804 only. The removable middle panel portion 846 is
generally coextensive with a portion of label shape 810 that covers a front surface
of the IPHONE®.
[0087] The registration structure of the label assembly 800 includes four spaced apart registration
tabs 860 aligned along opposing sides of the middle panel portion 846. In this embodiment
of the invention, the tabs 860 are each defined by one or more tearable lines of separations
865 cut only the back sheet 804. The tabs 860 are raisable to an extended position
by folding outward above the back sheet 804 at perforated or otherwise scored fold
lines 862. The fold lines 862 connect each the tabs 860 to one of the other panel
portions 844 or 848, respectively, and extend generally perpendicular to the tearable
lines 850 and/or 852. In embodiments where the label assembly has a square or rectangular
peripheral shape, such as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the fold lines 862 are desirably
parallel to two sides of the label assembly 810 and perpendicular to the other two
sides of the label assembly 810.
[0088] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 26, each of the registration tabs 860 includes a
foldable portion 864 foldable about a tab fold line 866, which can be imaginary or
a perforated or otherwise scored fold line. The tab fold lines 866 align with the
tearable lines 850 or 852, such that when in a raised and folded position as shown
in FIG. 28 the foldable portions 864 extend substantially parallel with the edge of
the panel portions 844 or 848. The tabs 860 and foldable portions 864 are used to
align an object over the label shape 810, or vice versa, as discussed above.
[0089] The label assembly 800 also includes a fifth registration tab 870 defined at least
partially in the back sheet 804 by a tearable line of separation 872 and aligned with
a portion of the label shape 810 and/or the removable panel 830. The registration
structure 870 can be raised above the back sheet surface 832 by folding about fold
line 875 to the position shown in FIG. 28. The registration fold line 875 is desirably
parallel to a side edge of the label assembly 800. Whereas the registration tabs 860
align the object by limiting lateral movement of the object, the registration tab
870 is disposed at an end of the panel portion 846 and acts as an alignment structure
to assist in vertical or longitudinal alignment of the object over the label shape
810.
[0090] Whereas the registration tab 770 shown in FIG. 22 has an edge that contacts the object
to be labeled by extending perpendicular to the back sheet surface, the registration
tab 870 extends at a non-perpendicular angle from the back sheet surface 832 and/or
the removable panel 830. The registration tab 870 includes an edge or surface that
provides the angled side by which the object is aligned against and with.
[0091] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 26-28, the registration tab 870 includes a perforated
fold line 874 that defines a foldable portion 876. The fold line 874 extends at a
non-perpendicular angle from a registration fold line 875 connecting the registration
tab 870 to the back sheet 804. The foldable portion 876 is defined on three sides
by the tearable line 872, and when raised and folded as shown in FIG. 28, forms a
surface 878 extending at a non-perpendicular angle from the back sheet surface 832.
The tab 870 is positioned external of the outer periphery of the removable panel 830.
[0092] In one embodiment of this invention, the foldable portion 876 is cut only in the
back sheet 804 and not through the front sheet. In such embodiments, the raised and
folded foldable portion 876 can contact the adhesive on the back of face sheet 802.
The adhesive can help maintain the foldable portion in a desired position. As seen
in FIG. 27, a portion of the tab 870 that is adjacent to the foldable portion 876
can be cut in the face sheet 802 as well as the back sheet 804, thereby providing
thickness and rigidity when the tab 870 is raised as shown in FIG. 28.
[0093] Upon removing the removable panel portion 846 as shown in FIG. 28, the object to
be labeled can be aligned over the adhesive area that is under the panel 846 using
the raised registration tabs 860. The alignment registration tab 870 allows for a
proper vertical alignment over the exposed label shape 810. The angled surface of
the tab 870 allows the user consumer to slide the object down the angled surface into
the desired position. Once the label shape 810 is partially adhered to the object
the removable panel portions 844 and 846 and/or the surrounding matrix 880 can be
removed from the label shape 810, as discussed above. The reminder of the label shape
810 can be applied around the object as discussed above.
[0094] As will be appreciated various sizes, shapes and configurations are available for
the registration tabs and foldable portions thereof shown in FIGS. 26-28. In one embodiment
of this invention, the edge of the foldable portion 870 does not include the foldable
portion, and the object to be labeled is placed upon an angled side edge of the tab
870.
[0095] FIGS. 29 and 30 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly 900 according
to another embodiment of this invention. Label assembly 900 includes a face sheet
902 having a printed or printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 30, and an adjacent
back sheet 904, shown in the view of FIG. 29. An adhesive material is disposed between
the face sheet 902 and the back sheet 904.
[0096] The label assembly 900 shown in FIGS. 29 and 30 includes a single label shape 910,
but could alternatively include two or more. The label shape 910 is defined at an
outer periphery by a tearable line of separation 912. In the embodiment of the invention
shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, the label shape 910 is also particularly adapted to be applied
to an object having non-planar or more than one surface. Label shape 910 is also shown
as a label suitable for a current IPOD® music player, including shapes cut within
only the face sheet 902 which coordinate to components of the IPOD®. A rectangular
shape 918 is cut within the face sheet 902 by a tearable line of separation 920 and
corresponds to the view screen of the music player. Other shapes defined by tearable
lines include shape 922 which corresponds to the control wheel, and shape 924 which
corresponds to a to a functional feature such as, for example, a camera, microphone
and/or speaker openings of the device. As shown in FIG. 29, the back sheet 904 can
include a corresponding die cut 927, along a portion of the shape 918, as described
above, to assist in maintaining the connection of shape 918 to the removable panel
930 during removal of the panel 930.
[0097] Referring to FIG. 29, the back sheet 904 includes the removable panel 930 defined
in the back sheet surface 932 by at least one tearable line of separation 934 extending
around the outer periphery of removable panel 930. The removable panel 930 includes
a portion of an outer periphery that is offset from an outer periphery of the label
shape 910. The removable panel 930 in the illustrated embodiment is also divided into
two sub-panels 944 and 946, which can assist in applying the label shape 910 to an
object, for example, by allowing for only a portion of the removable panel 930 to
be removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 910 to the object and the
subsequent removal of a remaining panels for wrapping the additional portions of the
label shape 910 around a different surface (e.g., a side and/or back surface) of the
object.
[0098] The registration structure of the label assembly 900 includes four spaced apart registration
tabs 960 aligned along opposing sides of the removable panel portion 946, and two
opposing alignment tabs 970 disposed at the upper and lower ends of the removable
panel portion 946. Each of the tabs 960 and 970 is defined by one or more tearable
lines of separations 965 or 972. The tabs 960 are raisable to an extended position
by folding outward above the back sheet 904 at perforated or otherwise scored fold
lines 962. The fold lines 962 connect each of the tabs 960 to the other panel portion
944 or the back sheet 904, respectively. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 29, each
of the registration tabs 960 includes a foldable portion 964 foldable about a tab
fold line 966, which can be imaginary or a perforated or otherwise scored fold line.
The alignment tabs 970 have a similar structure to the tabs 960.
[0099] In FIGS. 29 and 30, one of the registration tabs 960 is aligned and disposed over
the removable shape 924. The panel portion 944 covers the removable shape 924 and
includes the tab 960 over the label shape 924. The registration tab 960 that is over
the label shape 924 is connected to the panel portion 944 by the fold line 962 and
includes an edge or tab fold line 966 aligned with a side edge of the other panel
portion 946.
[0100] In the embodiment of FIGS. 29 and 30, the registration tab 960 that is over the label
shape 924 has a shape that is different from the other tabs 960, resulting from a
portion 968 of the tab 960 sized to extend over the particular shape of the removable
shape 924. At least this registration tab 960 is cut into the back sheet 904 and not
cut into the face sheet 902. The registration tab 960 desirably has a periphery that
is generally coextensive with or slightly larger than the shape 924, so that when
the registration tab 960 is raised by folding outward above the back sheet 904 the
removable shape 924 continues to adhere to the tab 960 and is removed from the front
sheet 902.
[0101] By positioning a registration tab 960 over the label shape 924, the label shape 924
can be easily removed by lifting the registration tab 960. This embodiment of the
registration tab of this invention is also particularly useful in labeling objects
where a desired label shape in the front sheet is approximate a desired placement
of a registration tab. Various sizes, positions, shapes and configurations are available
for the registration tabs shown in FIGS. 29-30. For example, FIG. 31 illustrates a
registration tab 960' for placement over a label shape. The registration tab 960'
in FIG. 31 is sized larger than the tab 960 shown in FIG. 29. This larger size can
be adopted to match a larger size shape cut into the face sheet, or can be used to
facilitate lifting of the registration tab 960' for a shape sized smaller than the
tab 960', such as the shape 924 shown in FIG. 30.
[0102] FIG. 32 shows an object, namely an IPOD® music player labeled according to one embodiment
of this invention.
[0103] FIGS. 33 and 34 show the front and back, respectively, of a label assembly 1000 according
to another embodiment of this invention. Label assembly 1000 includes a face sheet
1002 having a printed or printable surface, shown in the view of FIG. 33, and an adjacent
back sheet 1004, shown in the view of FIG. 34. The back sheet 1004 is desirably about
the same size as the face sheet 1002, but may be slightly larger or smaller than the
face sheet 1002. The surface of the face sheet 1002 that is disposed toward the back
sheet 1004, and opposite the printed or printable surface, includes an adhesive material
coating 1005. The label assembly 1000 shown in FIGS. 33 and 34 includes a single label
shape 1010. The label shape 1010 is defined at an outer periphery by a tearable line
of separation 1012. In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, the
side portions 1015 of label shape 1010 is particularly adapted to be applied to, and
in this case wrapped around, an object having a non-planar and/or more than one surface.
The illustrated embodiment is particularly useful in aligning label shape 1010 to
an object having a planar surface wherein the label is to be applied to a front surface
and also wrapped around a side or back surface.
[0104] In the embodiment of FIGS. 33 and 34, label shape 1010 is configured to be applied
to an IPOD® music player, although changes in the size, shape and configuration of
the label shape can be made to accommodate other objects, such as discussed above.
Label shape 1010 includes additional shapes defined within the periphery by additional
tearable lines of separation. The label shape 1010 includes a circle 1014 cut within
the face sheet 1002 by a second tearable line of separation 1016 and a rectangular
shape 1018 cut within the face sheet 1002 by a third tearable line of separation 1020.
As can be seen in FIG. 33, these lines of separation 1016 and 1020 are cut only in
the face sheet 1002 and correspond to the control mechanism and view screen of the
music player.
[0105] The back sheet 1004 includes a removable panel 1030 defined in the back sheet surface
1032 by at least one tearable line of separation 1034 extending around the outer periphery
of removable panel 1030. The removable panel 1030 is disposed over the label shape
1010, and as shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, is preferably generally coextensive with label
shape 1010. The back sheet 1004 also includes a plurality of retainer tabs 1036 extending
from a remaining portion 1040 surrounding the removable panel 1030 and adhering to
the label shape 1010. As discussed above, the retainer tabs 1036 are particularly
useful in holding the label shape 1010 in place (and attached to the remaining portion
1038 of the front sheet 1002) while removing the removable panel 1030 to expose the
adhesive material on the label shape 1010.
[0106] In one embodiment of this invention, the removable panel 1030 is divided into at
least two sub-panels, which can assist in applying the label shape 1010 to an obj
ect, for example, by allowing for only a portion of the removable panel 1030 to be
removed prior to a first adhesion of the label shape 1010 to the object and the subsequent
removal or a second panel for wrapping the additional portion of the label shape 1010
around a different surface (e.g., a side and/or back surface) of the object. In the
embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 34, the removable panel 1030 includes a
center panel portion 1042 between two side panel portions 1044 and 1046. The center
panel portion 1042 is divided from each of the side panel portions 1044 and 1046 by
a corresponding line of separation 1048 and 1050, respectively, cut within the back
sheet 1004 only. The center panel portion 1042 can also include the optional corner
starter flap, or removal tab, 1055 that is adapted to allow for easier removal of
the center panel portion 1042 by the user. The side panel portions can also optionally
include such removal tabs.
[0107] The label assembly 1000 includes a registration structure, embodied in FIGS. 33 and
34 as four spaced apart registration tabs 1060 aligned with a portion of the label
shape 1010. As described above, the registration structure of this embodiment also
allows for improved and easier application of a label to an object, for example, an
MP3 player or smart phone. The tabs 1060 are each defined by one or more tearable
lines of separation in the back sheet 1004. The tabs 1060 are raisable to an extended
position by folding outward above the back sheet 1004. In FIG. 34, fold lines 1062
show where the tabs 1060 will desirably be folded when raised, and can be imaginary
or a perforated or otherwise scored fold line.
[0108] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, the registration structure is positioned
within an outer periphery of the removable panel 1030 and defined in only the back
sheet 1004. More particularly, at least one, and desirably each, of the two side panel
portions 1044 and 1046 includes a portion of one or more of the registration tabs
1060. The registration tabs 1060 are disposed along an edge of the center panel portion
1042, and when raised and folded are aligned with the edge of the center panel portion
1042 or the exposed adhesive there beneath.
[0109] Each of the registration tabs includes more than one foldable panels. As shown in
FIG. 34, there are three foldable panels 1064, 1066, and 1068, each defined on at
least one side by a fold line 1065. When raised during use, each of the registration
tabs 1060 is folded along each of the fold lines 1065 to form a three-dimensional
box-like registration structure 1069. In the raised position, foldable panel 1064
faces the center panel 1042 and the exposed adhesive when the center panel 1042 is
removed. Foldable panels 1066 and 1068 fold around to be over the adhesive exposed
by raising registration tab 1060 so that the adhesive assists the holding of the formed
box-like structure 1069 in the folded form.
[0110] Upon removing the center panel portion 1042, the object to be labeled can be aligned
over the adhesive area that is under the center panel portion 1042 using the raised
registration tabs 1060. The label assembly 1000 further includes an optional alignment
structure aligned with a portion of the label shape 1030 and also one of raised or
raisable above the back sheet. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 28, the alignment structure
includes two alignment tabs 1070 each defined by a tearable line of separation 1072
and positioned external of the outer periphery of the removable panel 1030. The alignment
tabs 1070 can also be formed using the same or similar structure to the registration
tabs 1060 or according to other embodiments discussed herein.
[0111] Various sizes, shapes, and configurations are available for the registration structure
and the foldable panels of the registration structure of this invention. For example,
the registration structure desirably includes more than one foldable panel, but can
have two, three, four, or more foldable panels, depending at least in part on the
configuration of the label and the object to be labeled.
[0112] FIGS. 35-36 illustrate, without limitation, several possible registration structure
alternatives. In FIG. 35, the registration structure is similar to the registration
structure shown in FIG.34, only arranged in a different direction. Instead of extending
into the center panel portion 1042, the longitudinal sides of the registration tabs
1060 extend parallel alongside the center panel portion 1042. In the embodiment of
FIG. 35, the folded panel 1066 of the box-like structure 1069 faces the center panel
portion 1042 and the exposed adhesive.
[0113] FIG. 36 illustrates a registration structure with only two foldable panels, and forming
an L-shaped registration tab 1060. The registration tab 1060 includes two perpendicular
fold lines. When folded, the foldable panel 1064 is disposed toward and aligned with
the center panel portion 1042 and the foldable panel 1066 is disposed parallel to
and against the exposed face sheet 1002 and held in place by the exposed adhesive.
[0114] FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate a label assembly 1100 according to another embodiment
of this invention. Label assembly 1100 includes a back sheet 1104 and a face sheet
1102 with a layer of adhesive disposed there between.
[0115] The back sheet 1104 includes a removable panel 1130 defined in the back sheet surface
1132 by at least one tearable line of separation 1134 extending around the outer periphery
of removable panel 1130. Similar to the previously illustrated embodiments, the removable
panel 1130 includes a center panel portion 1142 between two side panel portions 1144
and 1146. The center panel portion 1142 is divided from each of the side panel portions
1144 and 1146 by a corresponding line of separation 1148 and 1150, respectively, cut
within the back sheet 1104 only.
[0116] The label assembly 1100 includes a registration structure embodied as two spaced
apart registration tabs 1160 aligned with a portion of the removable panel 1130 and
a portion of the label shape there beneath. In this embodiment the tabs 1160 are each
defined on three sides by one or more tearable lines of separation 1158 in the back
sheet 1104. The tabs 1160 have a rectangular shape in FIGS.37 and 38 but are not limited
to any particular shape or configuration, and could be other shapes such as squares,
ellipses or rounded or semicircular shapes. The tabs 1160 are raisable to an extended
position by folding outward above the back sheet 1104 at fold lines 1162 which can
be imaginary or a perforated or otherwise scored fold line. The fold lines 1162 connect
the tabs 1160 to the side panels 1144 and 1146, respectively, while the tabs 1160
are separate from the center panel 1142 by the lines of separation 1158 to allow the
removal of the center panel 1142.
[0117] Each of the registration tabs 1160 includes more than one foldable panel, and more
particularly three foldable panels 1164, 1166, and 1168, each defined on at least
one side by a fold line 1165. When raised during use, each of the registration tabs
1160 is folded along each of the fold lines 1165 to form a three-dimensional box-like
registration structure 1169 as shown in FIG. 38. In the raised position, foldable
panel 1166 faces the center panel 1142 and the exposed adhesive when the center panel
1142 is removed. The foldable panel 1168 folds around to be disposed over the adhesive
exposed by raising registration tab 1160 so that the adhesive assists the holding
of the formed box-like structure 1169 in the folded form. The structures 1169, in
combination with the optional alignment tab 1170 provide registration or guide members
to place the object to be labeled in an aligned position over the exposed adhesive
as discussed above.
[0118] FIG. 39 illustrates a label assembly 1200 according to another embodiment of this
invention. Label assembly 1200 includes a back sheet 1204 and a face sheet 1202 with
a layer of adhesive disposed there between.
[0119] The back sheet 1204 includes a removable panel 1230 defined in the back sheet surface
1232 by at least one tearable line of separation 1234 extending around the outer periphery
of removable panel 1230. Similar to previously illustrated embodiments, the removable
panel 1230 includes a center panel portion 1242 between two side panel portions 1244
and 1246, although the features of this embodiment can be applied to other label assembly
configurations for other objects. The center panel portion 1242 is divided from each
of the side panel portions 1244 and 1246 by a corresponding line of separation 1248
and 1250, respectively, cut within the back sheet 1204 only.
[0120] The registration structure 1260 in the embodiment of FIGS. 39 and 40 is embodied
as a separate registration element 1262 that is applied to the label assembly 1200
during use. The label assembly 1200 includes removable panel strips 1264 that are
aligned with the center panel 1242 and removed by the user during use. The removable
panel strips can include an optional corner starter flap, or removal tab, 1255 that
is adapted to allow for easier removal by the user. Upon removing the removable panel
strips 1264, the registration elements 1262, embodied in FIG. 40 as rectangular blocks,
are placed over the exposed adhesive. The adhesive temporarily secures the elements
1262 in place along the center panel 1242 to form registration or guide rails for
lowering the object to be labeled onto the adhesive material below the center panel
1242 after the center panel 1242 is removed.
[0121] In one embodiment of this invention, the registration elements are placed on the
label assembly before the center panel 1242 is removed, so that the user can align
the elements 1262. However, the elements can be applied after the center panel removal
by aligning corners with the respective side panel 1244 or 1246. The exposed face
sheet 1202 under the removable panel strips 1264 can also be marked with a line to
facilitate proper placement of the elements 1262.
[0122] FIGS. 39 and 40 also show a similarly embodied alignment structure 1270 which includes
an alignment element 1272 that adheres to adhesive exposed below a removable alignment
strip 1274.
[0123] Various sizes shapes, materials, and configurations are available for the registration/alignment
elements and the removable panel/alignment strips of this invention. The registration/alignment
elements can have any size and/or shape, but preferably have a flat surface to place
on the exposed adhesive. Alternative numbers and placements of registration/alignment
elements are also available. The registration/alignment elements can also be formed
of any suitable material, such as plastic, wood, or spongy material, and desirably
have a surface that promotes removal from the adhesive after use. The removable panel/alignment
strips are desirably sized according to need and the size and shape of the registration/alignment
elements. In one possible alternative, the registration/alignment elements are sized
larger than the removable panel/alignment strips, and the back sheet includes a raised
embossed line, such as shown in FIG. 6, which the user can use to align an edge of
a tilted registration/alignment element followed by lowering the opposing edge onto
the exposed adhesive.
[0124] The invention further includes a method for labeling an object with a label from
the label assembly of this invention. As discussed above, the label assembly can be
pre-printed or printable. If the label assembly is printable, the consumer can print
custom images or text on the printable surface of the face sheet with a printer prior
to labeling an object. The printed label assembly is placed on a surface with the
face sheet downward on the surface. At least a portion of the removable panel in the
back sheet, e.g., the entire panel or just a center panel portion, is removed, such
as by using a starter flap, to expose the adhesive material on at least a first portion
of a label shape cut in the face sheet. The registration structures and the alignment
structures (if any) are raised or added either before or after the removable panel
or a portion thereof is removed. A surface of the object (not shown) is placed over
the adhesive material and kept in proper alignment using the registration structures
and any alignment structure. At least a portion of the label shape is adhered to the
object surface by placing the object on the exposed adhesive material while the object
is against the registration structures and any alignment structure. Once the object
surface is adhered, if any side panels are present they can be removed to expose the
adhesive material on the remaining label shape. The side portions of the label shape
can then be applied to the object, for example, by folding the side portions of the
label shape along fold lines to wrap the side portions around side and/or back surfaces
of the object.
[0125] In an alternative embodiment, the object is placed on the surface and the label assembly
is placed over the object for labeling the object. In such an embodiment, the registration
structures and any alignment structure can be preferably sized according to a height
of the object on the surface, to hold the label shape just over the object. The label
shape can then be applied by pressing down on the label shape.
[0126] The invention also includes software for printing on the label shape. The software
is executable on a data processor attached to a printer and includes templates for
allowing the user to apply text or images in the desired location on the label shape
(e.g., to avoid the view screen area). The software can include, on a recordable medium,
numerous templates each corresponding to one label shape for a known consumer device.
[0127] Thus the invention provides a label assembly with a registration structure that promotes
the desired straightened and/or central alignment of a label to an object. The label
assembly of this invention allows for application of a label to an object without
the need for a separate label application apparatus, while still providing the desired
placement on the object, such as centered placement of a label on an MP3 player or
cell phone.
[0128] The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence
of any element, part, step, component, or ingredient which is not specifically disclosed
herein.
[0129] While in the foregoing detailed description this invention has been described in
relation to certain preferred embodiments thereof, and many details have been set
forth for purposes of illustration, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art
that the invention is susceptible to additional embodiments and that certain of the
details described herein can be varied considerably without departing from the basic
principles of the invention.
1. A label assembly (400, 500, 600, 1200) including a face sheet (402, 502, 602, 1202)
with at least one label shape (410, 410', 510, 610) defined by at least one tearable
line of separation (412, 512, 612), a back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204) adjacent to
the face sheet (402, 502, 602, 1202), and an adhesive material disposed between the
face sheet (402, 502, 602, 1202) and the back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204), the label
assembly (400, 500, 600, 1200) comprising: the back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204) including
a removable panel (430, 530, 630, 1230) disposed over the label shape (410, 410',
510, 610) and a registration structure aligned with at least a portion of the label
shape (410, 410', 510, 610) and one of raised or raisable above the back sheet (404,
504, 640, 1204), where the registration structure comprises a registration tab (460,
560, 570, 660) defined by at least one tearable line of separation (464, 564) in the
back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204) and positioned within an outer periphery of the removable
panel (430, 530, 630, 1230), characterized in that the removable panel (430, 530, 630, 1230) comprises at least two panel portions (444,
446,544, 546, 644, 646, 1242, 1244, 1246) and the registration tab (460, 560, 570,
660) is disposed within a periphery of one of the panel portions (444, 446, 544, 546,
644, 646, 1242, 1244, 1246) and adjacent to one of the other panel portions.
2. The label assembly according to Claim 1, wherein the registration tab (460, 560, 570,
660) is cut into the back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204) and raisable by folding outward
above the back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204).
3. The label assembly according to any of Claims 1 or 2, wherein one of the two panel
portions comprises at least a portion of the registration tab (460, 560, 570, 660).
4. The label assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 3, wherein the registration tab
(460, 560, 570, 660) includes a tab fold line (462, 480, 562, 662) defining a foldable
portion
5. The label assembly according to Claim 4, wherein the tab fold line (462, 480, 562,
662) is substantially perpendicular to a fold line connecting the registration tab
(460, 560, 570, 660) to the back sheet (404, 504, 640, 1204).
6. The label assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 5, wherein the registration tab
(460, 560, 570, 660) includes an edge extending at a non-perpendicular angle from
the back sheet surface (532, 632, 1232) or the removable panel (430, 530, 630, 1230).
7. The label assembly according to Claim 6, wherein the registration tab (460, 560, 570,
660) further comprises a surface extending at a non-perpendicular angle from the back
sheet surface (532, 632, 1232) when raised.
8. The label assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 7, further comprising a removable
shape cut within the face sheet and positioned within the label shape, wherein a portion
of the registration tab is disposed over the removable shape, the registration tab
being raisable above the back sheet surface (932) and the removable shape adheres
to the registration tab when raised.
9. The label assembly according to any of Claims 1 to 8, wherein the registration tab
comprises more than one foldable portion, wherein the more than one foldable portion
are positioned at an angle to another when the registration tab is raised and folded.
10. A method for labeling an object with a label from a label assembly according to claim
1, the method comprising: providing a label assembly (400, 500, 600, 1200) according
to claim 1; placing the label assembly (400, 500, 600, 1200) or the object on a surface;
removing the first panel portion of the removable panel (430, 530, 630, 1230) to expose
the adhesive material on at least a first portion of the label shape (410, 410', 510,
610); placing the object against the registration structure; adhering the object to
the first portion of the label shape (410, 410', 510, 610) by contacting the object
with the exposed adhesive material while the object is against the registration structure;
and removing the object with the adhered label shape (410, 410', 510, 610) from the
label assembly (400, 500, 600, 1200).
11. The method of Claim 10, further comprising: removing a second panel portion of the
removable panel (430, 530, 630, 1230) upon adhering the object to the first portion
to expose the adhesive material on a second portion of the label shape (410, 410',
510, 610); and applying the second portion of the label shape (410, 410', 510, 610)
to the object by wrapping the second portion of the label shape (410, 410', 510, 610)
around a portion of the object.
12. The method of Claim 10 or 11, wherein the registration tab (460, 560, 570, 660) is
defined by at least one tearable line of separation and including a foldable portion,
and further comprising raising the registration tab (460, 560, 570, 660), folding
the foldable portion, and placing the object against the folded foldable portion.
1. Etikettenanordnung (400, 500, 600, 1200), die eine Deckschicht (402, 502, 602, 1202)
mit zumindest einer Etikettenform (410, 410', 510, 610), die durch zumindest eine
Reißtrennlinie (412, 512, 612) definiert ist, eine zu der Deckschicht (402, 502, 602,
1202) benachbarte Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204) und einen zwischen der Deckschicht
(402, 502, 602, 1202) und der Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204) ausgebildeten
Klebstoff aufweist, wobei die Etikettenanordnung (400, 500, 600, 1200) Folgendes umfasst:
dass die Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204) ein abnehmbares Feld (430, 530, 630,
1230), das über der Etikettenform (410, 410', 510, 610) ausgebildet ist, und eine
Registrierstruktur aufweist, die mit zumindest einem Abschnitt der Etikettenform (410,
410', 510, 610) bündig verläuft und über die Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204)
entweder erhoben oder erhebbar ist,
wobei die Registrierstruktur eine Registrierkarte (460, 560, 760, 660) umfasst, die
durch zumindest eine Reißtrennlinie (464, 564) in der Rückseitenschicht (404, 504,
640, 1204) definiert und innerhalb eines Außenumfangsrands des abnehmbaren Feldes
(430, 530, 630, 1230) positioniert ist,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das abnehmbare Feld (430, 530, 630, 1230) zumindest zwei Feldabschnitte (444, 446,
544, 546, 644, 646, 1242, 1244, 1246) umfasst und die Registrierkarte (460, 560, 570,
660) innerhalb eines Umfangsrands eines der Feldabschnitte (444, 446, 544, 546, 644,
646, 1242, 1244,1246) und zu einem der anderen Feldabschnitte benachbart ausgebildet
ist.
2. Etikettenanordnung nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Registrierkarte (460, 560, 570, 660)
in die Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204) eingeschnitten und durch Knicken nach
außen über die Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204) erhebbar ist.
3. Etikettenanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 und 2, wobei einer der beiden Feldabschnitte
zumindest einen Abschnitt der Registrierkarte (460, 560, 570, 660) umfasst.
4. Etikettenanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, wobei die Registrierkarte (460,
560, 570, 660) eine Kartenknicklinie (462, 480, 562, 662) aufweist, die einen knickbaren
Abschnitt definiert.
5. Etikettenanordnung nach Anspruch 4, wobei die Kartenknicklinie (462, 480, 562, 662)
im Wesentlichen senkrecht zu einer Knicklinie ist, die die Registrierkarte (460, 560,
570, 660) mit der Rückseitenschicht (404, 504, 640, 1204) verbindet.
6. Etikettenanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei die Registrierkarte (460,
560, 570, 660) eine Kante aufweist, die sich in einem nicht senkrechten Winkel von
der Rückseitenschichtoberfläche (532, 632, 1232) oder dem abnehmbaren Feld (430, 530,
630, 1230) aus erstreckt.
7. Etikettenanordnung nach Anspruch 6, wobei die Registrierkarte (460, 560, 570, 660)
weiter eine Oberfläche umfasst, die sich in einem nicht senkrechten Winkel von der
Rückseitenschichtoberfläche (532, 632, 1232) aus erstreckt, wenn sie erhoben wird.
8. Etikettenanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, weiterhin umfassend eine abnehmbare
Form, die innerhalb der Deckschicht eingeschnitten und innerhalb der Etikettenform
positioniert ist, wobei ein Abschnitt der Registrierkarte über der abnehmbaren Form
ausgebildet ist, wobei die Registrierkarte über die Rückseitenschichtoberfläche (932)
erhebbar ist und die abnehmbare Form an der Registrierkarte klebt, wenn sie erhoben
wird.
9. Etikettenanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, wobei die Registrierkarte mehr
als einen knickbaren Abschnitt umfasst, wobei die mehreren knickbaren Abschnitte in
einem Winkel zueinander positioniert sind, wenn die Registrierkarte erhoben und geknickt
wird.
10. Verfahren zum Etikettieren eines Gegenstands mit einem Etikett aus einer Etikettenanordnung
nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Verfahren Folgendes umfasst:
Bereitstellen einer Etikettenanordnung (400, 500, 600, 1200) nach Anspruch 1;
Platzieren der Etikettenanordnung (400, 500, 600, 1200) oder den Gegenstand auf einer
Oberfläche;
Abnehmen des ersten Feldabschnitts des abnehmbaren Feldes (430, 530, 630, 1230), um
den Klebstoff auf zumindest einem ersten Abschnitt der Etikettenform (410, 410' 510,
610) freizulegen;
Platzieren des Gegenstands gegen die Registrierstruktur;
Kleben des Gegenstands an den ersten Abschnitt der Etikettenform (410, 410' 510, 610)
durch Herstellen eines Kontakts zwischen dem Gegenstand und dem freiliegenden Klebstoff,
während der Gegenstand gegen die Registrierstruktur platziert ist; und
Abnehmen des Gegenstands mit der daran klebenden Etikettenform (410, 410' 510, 610)
von der Etikettenanordnung (400, 500, 600, 1200).
11. Verfahren nach Anspruch 10, weiterhin umfassend:
Abnehmen eines zweiten Feldabschnitts des abnehmbaren Feldes (430, 530, 630, 1230)
durch Kleben des Gegenstands an den ersten Abschnitt, um den Klebstoff auf einem zweiten
Abschnitt der Etikettenform (410, 410', 510, 610) freizulegen; und
Aufbringen des zweiten Abschnitts der Etikettenform (410, 410', 510, 610) auf dem
Gegenstand durch Wickeln des zweiten Abschnitts der Etikettenform (410, 410', 510,
610) um einen Abschnitt des Gegenstands.
12. Verfahren nach Anspruch 10 oder 11, wobei die Registrierkarte (460, 560, 570, 660)
durch zumindest eine Reißtrennlinie definiert ist und einen knickbaren Abschnitt aufweist
und wobei es weiter Folgendes umfasst:
Erheben der Registrierkarte (460, 560, 570, 660),
Knicken des knickbaren Abschnitts und
Platzieren des Gegenstands gegen den geknickten knickbaren Abschnitt.
1. Ensemble étiquette (400, 500, 600, 1200) incluant une feuille de face (402, 502, 602,
1202) avec au moins une forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) définie par au moins
une ligne de séparation déchirable (412, 512, 612), une feuille arrière (404, 504,
640, 1204) adjacente à la feuille de face (402, 502, 602, 1202), et un matériau adhésif
disposé entre la feuille de face (402, 502, 602, 1202) et la feuille arrière (404,
504, 640, 1204), l'ensemble étiquette (400, 500, 600, 1200) comprenant : la feuille
arrière (404, 504, 640, 1204) incluant un panneau amovible (430, 530, 630, 1230) disposé
sur la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) et une structure de repérage alignée
avec au moins une portion de la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) et l'une parmi
élevée ou pouvant être élevée au-dessus de la feuille arrière (404, 504, 640, 1204),
où la structure de repérage comprend une patte de repérage (460, 560, 570, 660) définie
par au moins une ligne de séparation déchirable (464, 564) dans la feuille arrière
(404, 504, 640, 1204) et positionnée dans une périphérie extérieure du panneau amovible
(430, 530, 630, 1230),
caractérisé en ce que le panneau amovible (430, 530, 630, 1230) comprend au moins deux portions de panneau
(444, 446, 544, 546, 644, 646, 1242, 1244, 1246) et la patte de repérage (460, 560,
570, 660) est disposée dans une périphérie de l'une des portions de panneau (444,
446, 544, 546, 644, 646, 1242, 1244, 1246) et adjacente à l'une des autres portions
de panneau.
2. Ensemble étiquette selon la revendication 1, dans lequel la patte de repérage (460,
560, 570, 660) est découpée dans la feuille arrière (404, 504, 640, 1204) et pouvant
être élevée par pliage vers l'extérieur au-dessus de la feuille arrière (404, 504,
640, 1204).
3. Ensemble étiquette selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou 2, dans lequel l'une
des deux portions de panneau comprend au moins une portion de la patte de repérage
(460, 560, 570, 660).
4. Ensemble étiquette selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, dans lequel la
patte de repérage (460, 560, 570, 660) inclut une ligne de pli de patte (462, 480,
562, 662) définissant une portion pliable.
5. Ensemble étiquette selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la ligne de pli de patte
(462, 480, 562, 662) est sensiblement perpendiculaire à une ligne de pli reliant la
patte de repérage (460, 560, 570, 660) à la feuille arrière (404, 504, 640, 1204).
6. Ensemble étiquette selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans lequel la
patte de repérage (460, 560, 570, 660) inclut un bord s'étendant selon un angle non
perpendiculaire depuis la surface de feuille arrière (532, 632, 1232) ou le panneau
amovible (430, 530, 630, 1230).
7. Ensemble étiquette selon la revendication 6, dans lequel la patte de repérage (460,
560, 570, 660) comprend en outre une surface s'étendant selon un angle non perpendiculaire
depuis la surface de feuille arrière (532, 632, 1232) quand elle est élevée.
8. Ensemble étiquette selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, comprenant en
outre une forme amovible découpée dans la feuille de face et positionnée dans la forme
d'étiquette, dans lequel une portion de la patte de repérage est disposée sur la forme
amovible, la patte de repérage pouvant être élevée au-dessus de la surface de feuille
arrière (932) et la forme amovible adhère à la patte de repérage quand elle est élevée.
9. Ensemble étiquette selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 8, dans lequel la
patte de repérage comprend plus d'une portion pliable, dans lequel les plus d'une
portion pliable sont positionnées selon un angle par rapport à une autre quand la
patte de repérage est élevée et pliée.
10. Procédé pour étiqueter un objet avec une étiquette provenant d'un ensemble étiquette
selon la revendication 1, le procédé comprenant : la fourniture d'un ensemble étiquette
(400, 500, 600, 1200) selon la revendication 1 ; la mise en place de l'ensemble étiquette
(400, 500, 600, 1200) ou de l'objet sur une surface ; le retrait de la première portion
de panneau du panneau amovible (430, 530, 630, 1230) afin d'exposer le matériau adhésif
sur au moins une première portion de la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) ;
la mise en place de l'objet contre la structure de repérage ; la mise en adhérence
de l'objet à la première portion de la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) en
mettant l'objet en contact avec le matériau adhésif exposé alors que l'objet est contre
la structure de repérage ; et le retrait de l'objet avec la forme d'étiquette en adhérence
(410, 410', 510, 610) de l'ensemble étiquette (400, 500, 600, 1200).
11. Procédé selon la revendication 10, comprenant en outre : le retrait d'une deuxième
portion de panneau du panneau amovible (430, 530, 630, 1230) lors de la mise en adhérence
de l'objet à la première portion afin d'exposer le matériau adhésif sur une deuxième
portion de la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) ; et l'application de la deuxième
portion de la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) à l'objet en enroulant la deuxième
portion de la forme d'étiquette (410, 410', 510, 610) autour d'une portion de l'objet.
12. Procédé selon la revendication 10 ou 11, dans lequel la patte de repérage (460, 560,
570, 660) est définie par au moins une ligne de séparation déchirable et incluant
une portion pliable, et comprenant en outre l'élévation de la patte de repérage (460,
560, 570, 660), le pliage de la portion pliable et la mise en place de l'objet contre
la portion pliable pliée.