Abstract

An in-mold label dispenser (10) is disclosed for supplying labels to a multiple cavity blow molding machine (12) for an in-mold labeling process. Label dispenser (10) includes a dispensing head (24) mounted for movement between a withdrawn position free of the mold and an inserted position between mold sections in an open position of the mold. A plurality of label carriers (26) are mounted on the dispensing head (24) for movement between retracted and extended positions in order to receive labels (32) from magazines (28) and supply the labels to the mold. A drive mechanism (30) moves the dispensing head (24) and the label carriers (26) for the in-mold label dispensing. Preferably, the dispensing head (24) is mounted on a support (34) and is moved in a hesitating manner to receive labels. The dispensing head support (34) is preferably mounted on a frame (38) in a manner that conserves floor space and the frame is also mounted in order to permit access to the associated blow molding machine. A linkage assembly (64) mounts the label carriers (26) on the dispensing head (24). The drive mechanism (30) preferably includes an actuator (98) that drives the linkage assembly (64) and a rack and gear drive (118) that drives the dispensing head.