Variably printed tape and system for printing and applying tape onto surfaces

Abstract

An apparatus for printing variable information on a tape to form a tape segment, cutting the tape segment to form a tag, and applying the tag onto an object includes a printer for printing information onto the tape segment. A controller controls the printer in response to input to vary the information printed onto the tape. The printed tape segment is transported to a location for application onto the object and is cut. An adhesive tape can have variable information printed on it and can be applied onto an object. The tape includes a backing layer and an adhesive layer on the first side of the backing layer. At least one of the backing layer and the adhesive layer are colored to yield a tape opacity of greater than 60. The tape can have a scan rating of at least C when applied on a black background and an opacity of at least 65. The tape can achieve specific scan ratings when adhered to surfaces that have color coordinates including combinations of a*, b*, and L* that are selected in combination with each other.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.