Labeling machine for containers

A machine for applying to containers such as bottles a selected one of normal length labels that do not encircle the containers (non-encircling labels) or extra-length labels that encircle the containers (encircling labels), said machine comprising:

• a rotary table driven rotationally for transporting containers in a circular path,
• a plurality of rotary plate means for supporting transported containers and arranged in circumferentially spaced apart relationship on said table in said circular path and means supporting said plate means, respectively, on said table for rotating about axes parallel to the rotational axis of said table,
• one station including means arrangeable adjacent said path selectively operable to apply non-encircling labels to said containers and another station including means arrangeable adjacent said path selectively operable to apply encircling labels, said one station including a first holder for non-encircling labels, means for picking up a label from said first holder and means for depositing a glue coated label on a passing container, said other station including a second holder for encircling labels, means for applying glue to said containers for a passing container to pick up a label from said second holder,
• first and second drive means connectible alternately to said rotary plate means, said first drive means being operative to rotate said plate means and containers thereon through suitable angles of rotation for securing said non-encircling labels on the containers and said second drive means being operative to rotate said plate and containers thereon through suitable angles of rotation for securing said encircling labels on said containers.