Computer implemented method for simultaneously controlling tandem label

Abstract

First and second oppositely oriented, spaced apart tandem printers are simultaneously computer controlled to print both sides of labels on a continuous web of blank labels. The front and back designs, the number of labels to be printed and the number of labels on the web between the printers are each entered into the computer and stored. The first printer is actuated to print label fronts and the web is advanced. The second printer is not actuated to print label backs until the first printer has printed the fronts of a number of labels equal to the number of labels between the printers. After the first printer has completed printing the fronts of the required number of labels, the second printer will continue printing an additional number of label backs equal to the number of labels between the printers. Sets of different labels can be printed sequentially. After the first printer has completed the fronts of each of the labels in one set and begins printing the fronts of the labels of the next set, the second printer will continue to print the backs of the labels in the first set until same are completed, before changing to print the backs of the labels in the second set. In this way, no stock is wasted between label sets, set up time and run time is reduced and printing of sets of small numbers of different labels can be done economically.