FlexiMate WindGrip

Fixed-distance applicators assume every product presents its surface at the same height. On a line carrying mixed cases that assumption fails, and labels land crooked or miss. The FlexiMate WindGrip makes the stroke programmable and variable instead: a proximity sensor or a laser measurement sensor reads each product, and the applicator moves to the right point before wiping the label on — on the top, the bottom or the side of moving products, with up to ±1 mm accuracy and up to 15 cycles per minute.

The wipe-on pad has an integrated fan that holds the label securely until it is applied with controlled contact, so it goes on without wrinkles and stays readable, even on slightly irregular surfaces. The applicator is fully electric, with precise control of speed, acceleration and stroke position: no compressed air is needed, energy consumption and mechanical wear are lower, and it suits sites where there is no air supply.

As part of the modular FlexiMate platform it comes in right- or left-hand versions with a 4" or 6" liner passage, a nominal stroke of 250, 350 or 500 mm, a 120 × 150 mm wipe-on pad for A6 labels, and a 300 mm or 350 mm unwinder (liner rewind up to Ø190 or Ø210 mm respectively). It is run from an 800 × 480 touchscreen, with IMA's LinkMate software on a PC for service; Ethernet, an M12 encoder/analog connector and an M12 bus extension connector are available as options.