Feed mechanism

[0001] The invention relates to devices for the tobacco industry. In particular, but not exclusively, it relates to a feeding mechanism for feeding objects for incorporation into tobacco industry products such as cigarettes.

Background of the Invention [0002] Filter bars for use in the manufacture of filter cigarettes are manufactured by filter bar production machines, such as the KDF-2 filter production kit from Hauni Maschinenbau AG. In the filter production kit, the cellulose acetate filter cartridge material, referred to as the cable, is pulled along the track from the source, and then pressed and wrapped with paper in a holder, forming an elongated rolled bar that is cut to obtain individual bars. This billet forming process is well known - as such - to those skilled in the art.

[0003] It is also known to provide a filter cigarette together with a readily broken capsule containing menthol in the filter. Cigarette smoke can be selectively flavored by squeezing the filter, which breaks the capsule and releases menthol. So the cigarette gives you a choice in terms of whether you want to aromatize smoke with menthol or not.

[0004] Easily bursting capsules are usually introduced into smoking filter rods by dispensing individual capsules individually from the metering wheel into the cable stream as it passes through the filter rod making machine.

[0005] Document WO2009071272 A1 discloses a machine that usually feeds spherical beads into a cigarette filter during the production of said filter.

Summary of the Invention [0006] The invention relates to a mechanism for feeding objects introduced into tobacco products, comprising a rotary member, for receiving objects; the rotary member is equipped with a plurality of channels, each channel being adapted so that objects accumulate in a row in the channel, which rotates together with the rotary element, each channel having an outlet for dispensing an object from the channel and a pneumatic mechanism configured for keeping the object in a row before dispensing the object.

[0007] As used herein, the term "pneumatic mechanism" refers to any mechanism that uses a suction and / or gas stream to maintain an object before dispensing the object. Suitable mechanisms include vacuum mechanisms for applying a vacuum, for holding objects or compressed air mechanisms, or the like, for applying a positive pressure for the same purpose.

[0008] Preferably, the objects are easily cracked liquid-containing capsules.

[0009] The pneumatic mechanism controls the movement of the capsule along the channels by selectively holding the capsules in place, thus facilitating regular feeding of the capsules from the feeding mechanism.

[0010] The feeding mechanism provides low impact / pressure on the capsules, which allows them to be administered at high speed without causing damage to the capsules. In particular, by holding the capsules by applying a suction and / or gas stream before the capsules are dispensed, it provides gentle handling of the capsule.

[0011] Preferably, the feeding mechanism comprises first and second rotary members, the first rotary member comprises said channels and the second rotary member comprises receptacles for receiving capsules for receiving capsules from the channels. The second rotary member may be configured to consecutively dispense the capsules into the cable stream.

[0012] Preferably, the first rotary member is adapted to rotate about a first axis and the second rotary member is adapted to rotate about a second transverse axis with respect to the first axis. Preferably, the feeding mechanism comprises a synchronization mechanism configured to synchronize the rotary members so that objects in motion pass sequentially from the successive channels of the first rotary member to the subsequent seats of the second rotary member. Preferably, the synchronization mechanism ensures that the peripheral speed of the first rotary member is equal to the peripheral speed of the second rotary member at the point of transition of the capsule from the first rotary member to the second. This ensures gentle handling of the capsules as they move, even at high speeds, as it does not affect the capsules in a tangential direction. This in turn reduces the risk of broken capsules appearing in the final filter bar.

[0013] Preferably, the first rotary member is arranged substantially horizontally and the second rotary member is arranged substantially vertically. Preferably, the objects are provided from a rotatable member oriented in a horizontal direction to a rotatable member oriented in a vertical direction in a substantially vertical direction. Preferably, the horizontally oriented rotary member rotates counterclockwise, while the vertically oriented rotary member rotates clockwise or vice versa.

[0014] Preferably, the channels guide the objects in the circumferential direction of the rotary member. The channels preferably extend in a direction transverse to the axis of rotation of the rotary member. Preferably, the channels and rows extend radially outward with respect to the center of rotation of the rotary member. Alternatively, the channels and rows may deviate from the radial path and may be bent. Preferably, the rotatable member rotates about a substantially vertical axis.

[0015] Preferably, the rotational movement of the rotary member successively brings each channel to a dispensing position.

[0016] To hold the capsules in the rotary channels, the pneumatic mechanism may apply negative pressure, or alternatively use positive pressure for this purpose.

[0017] However, preferably the pneumatic mechanism is a suction mechanism.

[0018] The suction mechanism is preferably configured to release suction so as to allow the object to pass through the mouth of the channel when said channel is in the dispensing position and to apply suction so as to prevent the object from passing through the mouth before subjecting the object to dispensing.

[0019] The suction mechanism preferably comprises an intake area, the rotary member being configured to rotate relative to the intake area. Preferably, each channel has one or more holes for alignment with the inlet area so that in motion suction is fed through the hole when said hole aligns with the suction area. Each one or more holes includes a hole formed in the channel.

[0020] The suction mechanism is preferably configured to limit the outward movement of objects in the channel when the object in said channel has been dispensed. This ensures that a predetermined number of objects will be dispensed from the channel after being set to the dispensing position.

[0021] Preferably, each channel is adapted to confine objects in a single row row in the channel during rotation of the rotary member.

[0022] The suction mechanism is preferably configured to release suction in relation to the outermost object in the channel so that the outermost object can be dispensed when the channel is in the dispensing position. The suction mechanism is preferably configured to hold the second outermost object in the channel while the outermost object is dispensed. This configuration ensures that only the outermost object will be dispensed from the channel when the channel is placed in the dispensing position.

[0023] Preferably, the side walls of the channels are adapted to transversely limit the objects in the channels. Furthermore, the channels are preferably enclosed channels with side walls and a vault. The vault ensures that objects are maintained in the channels during rotation.

[0024] Preferably, the rotary member is formed of one or more plates. The channels can be marked out with grooves formed in one of the tiles.

[0025] Furthermore, preferably the rotary member is made of an upper plate and a lower plate.

[0026] The forming of the rotary member of two parts facilitates machining of grooves in the upper plate to delineate the channels, and also facilitates the processing of the bottom plate to obtain the desired profile.

[0027] The rotary member may include a first entrance arranged so that the objects received in the first entrance pass to the first set of one or more

- 4 channels, and a second input positioned so that the objects received in the second input go to the second set of one or more channels.

[0028] The rotary member preferably comprises one or more partitions arranged so as to avoid objects from the first input member to pass to any of the second set of channels and to avoid objects from the second input member to not pass to any of the first set of channels. One or more obstacles may include inner walls of the rotary member.

[0029] The feeding mechanism preferably comprises a gaseous stream generating mechanism adapted to generate a gaseous stream for ejecting the object when the channel is in the dispensing position.

[0030] The gaseous stream generating mechanism may comprise an air stream mechanism adapted to direct the air stream at the object to push the object. Alternatively or additionally, the gaseous stream generating mechanism may include a vacuum suction mechanism for sucking the object from the channel when the channel is in the dispensing position and thus for dispensing the object.

[0031] The invention also provides a method of feeding objects to be incorporated into tobacco industry products, comprising rotating a rotary element having a plurality of channels so that the objects accumulate in rows, in channels that rotate with the rotary member, keeping the object in a row using a suction stream and / or a gas stream before the object is dispensed, and the dispensing of said object.

[0032] The invention also provides a kit for producing a filter bar comprising a feeding mechanism. The set for preparing the filter bar can be configured to receive objects from the feeding mechanism and for the production of filter bars; each filter bar is equipped with one or more of the objects listed here.

[0033] Preferably, the filter bar production kit comprises a holder configured to receive the filter cartridge material and the filter wrapping material and to form the wrapped elongated filter bar. Preferably, the assembly includes a projection. Preferably, the kit includes a cutter configured to cut the elongated filter bar, thereby forming filter bar segments, where each segment includes one or more objects. The second rotary member may be adapted to supply objects directly to the tongue so that the objects are placed in the filter insert material passing through the tongue. Preferably, the second rotary member penetrates the projection so that each object received by the second rotary member leaves the object movement member at the exit point inside the projection.

[0034] Preferably, the objects are easily cracked capsules filled with flavoring and flavoring substance.

[0035] The terms "aroma" and "flavoring substance" as used in this specification refer to materials which, when local regulations allow, can be

- 5 used to produce the desired taste or aroma in the product. They may contain extracts e.g. licorice, hydrangea, Japanese magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, cloves, menthol, Japanese mint, anise, cinnamon, grass, wintergreen, cherry, berries, peach, apple, Dramboui, bourbon, Scotch, whiskey, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascade bark, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey extract, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cinnamon, cumin, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, pimento, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee or peppermint oil from any species of the Menth genus), taste masking agents, local bitterness receptor blockers, local receptor enhancers, sweeteners e.g. sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamates , lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol and other additives such as aschlorofyll, minerals, plant derived products or breath freshening agents. They can be artificial, synthetic or natural ingredients or mixtures thereof.

[0036] The disclosure of the invention also provides a filter rod production kit comprising a holder area equipped with an inlet cable guide and a filling nozzle, the outlet of the filling nozzle being separated from the inlet of a cable guide. Preferably, the intake cable guide is part of the holder tab. Preferably, the spacing is the free space spacing. Furthermore, preferably, the distance is about 10 mm.

[0037] The disclosure of the invention also provides a device for producing filter rods for use in the production of smokers' articles, comprising a first and second part projection and a rotatable member for moving the object, wherein the filter rod production set consists of a first body part comprising said first part of the tongue; a second body portion comprising said object movement member and said second projection portion; and a hinge positioned so that the relative position of the first and second body parts can be adjusted between the first position in which the first and second parts of the tongue are separated so that the interior of the tongue is accessible for cleaning and threading the cable, and the second position in which the first and second the other part of the tongue is positioned so that the cable can pass from one to the other. Preferably, the first body portion further includes a nozzle. Preferably, the first body part further comprises a centrifugal feeding mechanism.

[0038] In order that the invention may be fully understood, examples thereof will now be illustrated with reference to the attached figures, of which;

Figure 1 shows a feeding mechanism;

Figure 2a is a perspective view of the disk assembly of the feeding mechanism;

Figure 2b is a cross-sectional view of the disc assembly of the feeding mechanism;

Figure 3 is an exploded view of the disk assembly;

Figure 4 is a plan view of the upper disk of the disk assembly;

Figure 5 is a bottom view of the upper disk of Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a top view of the lower disk of the disk assembly;

Figure 7 is a bottom view of the suction ring of the disk assembly;

Figure 8 is a plan view showing the rotary feeding disk of the disk assembly in the dispensing position;

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the disc assembly showing the channel in the "parking position" in which a vacuum is applied to the last capsule in the channel;

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the disc assembly showing the channel in the dispensing position in which a vacuum is applied to the penultimate capsule in the channel;

Figure 11 shows another feeding mechanism;

Figure 12 is a top view of the rotary feeding disk of the feeding mechanism of Figure 11;

Figure 13 is a perspective exploded view of the rotary feeding disk of figure 12;

Figure 14 is an exploded view of the rotary feed disk of the feed mechanism with

Fig. 11, showing the lower surfaces of the upper and lower discs.

Figure 15 is a plan view of the upper disk of the feeding mechanism of Figure 11;

Figure 16 is a bottom view of the upper disk of the feeding mechanism of Figure 11;

Figure 17 is a plan view of the bottom disk of the feeding mechanism of Figure 11;

Figure 18 is a bottom view of the bottom disk of the feeding mechanism of Figure 11,

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the capsule path for capsules received at the first entry;

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the path of the capsule in the case of capsules received at the second entrance;

Figures 21-23 show the suction ring assembly;

Figures 24 and 25 show an assembly for attaching the feeding unit of Figure 11 to a filter production assembly;

Figure 26 shows the delivery unit of Figure 11 mounted in a filter production assembly;

Figure 27 shows a filter production assembly with the feeding unit in the raised position; Figure 28 is a bottom view of another upper disk.

Figure 29 shows a filter bar;

Figure 30 shows an alternative pneumatic mechanism for holding capsules in channels using overpressure.

[0039] Figure 1 shows the feeding mechanism 1 of the capsule. As can be seen, the feeding mechanism 1 comprises a horizontally arranged disk assembly 2 and a vertically dispensing wheel 3.

[0040] Figure 2a shows the disc assembly 2 in isolation. As can be seen, the disk assembly 2 comprises a rotatable feed disk 4 and a suction mechanism in the form of a suction ring 5. The feed disk 4 is configured to rotate about a vertical axis with respect to the fixed suction ring 5. The disk 4 has a centrally located insertion member 6 for receiving capsules capsules that break easily. A plurality of radially extending intake grooves 7 receiving the capsules in the base of the insertion member 6 are formed. Each intake groove 7 leads directly to the entrance 8 of one of the many closed channels 9, each of which extends radially through the inner part of the feeding disc 4. The channels 9 are marked in the figure 2a with dashed lines and, as shown, are evenly spaced around shield 4. As shown in the sectional view of Figure 2b, each channel 9 has a capsule outlet 13 located near the outer periphery of the disk 4 that passes through the bottom surface of the channel 9 to allow the capsules to pass from the delivery disk 4 to the dispensing wheel 3. As shown in figure 1, the dispensing wheel 3 has a plurality of receiving capsules for the capsules, in the form of holes 3a, which in motion align with the exit holes 13 of the capsules in the channels 7, since the disc 4 and the wheel 3 rotate to the capsules could sequentially pass from the dial 4 to the wheel 3.

[0041] In use, the capsules are loaded into the insertion member 6 with the rotating disc 4. The capsules can be loaded from the capsule dispenser (not shown) above the disc which feeds the capsules through the tube to the insertion member 6. A level adjustment mechanism may be provided incorporating a sensor for monitoring the level of capsules in the introduction member 6. The level adjustment mechanism can be prepared so that the capsules are loaded from the capsule cartridge only into the insertion member 6 when the capsule level in the insertion member 6 falls below a predetermined level. Alternatively, the capsules may be delivered to the insertion member 6 by other means, for example by hand.

[0042] During the rotation of the disc 4, centrifugal force causes the received capsules in the introduction member 6 to pass outwards to the entrances 8, being guided in the intake grooves 7, and then passing through the entrances 8 and moving through the channels 9 in rows towards the outlet openings 13. As shown in figure 3, the vault of each channel is provided with holes 21, 22 through which suction is provided from the stationary suction ring 5 so as to regulate the movement of the capsule along the channels 7 by selectively holding the capsules in place. As soon as the outlet opening of the channel 13 aligns with the seat 3a, the opening 21 in the vault of the channel 7 aligns with the opening for ejecting air 23 in the fixed suction ring 5 and applied

There is an air blow to eject the outermost capsule in the channel 7 through the outlet 13 to the seat 3a.

[0043] The dispensing wheel 3 is adapted to rotate and subsequently dispense the capsules into the cable stream passing through the filter production kit for introduction into the filter bars. The operation of the capsule dispensing wheel to bring the capsules into contact with the filter cable is well known - as such - to those skilled in the art.

[0044] Each capsule administered by the delivery mechanism is preferably substantially spherical, made of gelatin and has an internal content filled with a flavoring, for example menthol, mint green, orange oil, mint, licorice, eucalyptus, one or more of different fruit flavors or any flavor mixtures. Capsules may have a diameter of 3.5 mm. It should be noted that other objects suitable for being placed in filter bars may alternatively or additionally be fed by the feeding mechanism 1.

[0045] Centrifugal administration results in low effect / pressure on the capsules, which allows them to be administered at high speed without causing damage to the capsule.

[0046] Turning now to a more detailed description of the elements of the disc 4, as shown in the perspective assembly view in figure 3, the disc 4 comprises an upper plate in the form of a disc 10 and a lower plate in the form of a disc 11. The upper and lower discs 10, 11 are attached to each other, for example with screws, and in use rotate together relative to the fixed suction ring 5.

[0047] With reference to figure 5, which shows a bottom view of the upper disk 10, a series of radially extending grooves 12 with a U-shaped cross section are formed in the lower part of the upper disk 10. These grooves 12 form the side walls and the vault of the closed channels 9. The substrate of each closed channel 9 is delimited by the flat upper surface of the lower disk 11, which is shown in the vertical position in figure 6. As shown in figure 6, the bottom disk 11 has a plurality of holes 13 near its outer periphery, which are circumferentially spaced such that the hole is in the substrate of each channel 9 so as to form an outlet 13 of the capsule.

[0048] As shown in figure 6, the lower disk 11 comprises a capsule guide in the form of an elevated disk 14 which forms the base of the insertion member 6 and is intended to lead the capsules from the insertion member 6 to the channels 9. The elevated disk 14 has a smaller diameter than the lower disk 11. The raised disk 14 has a central depressed area 15 shaped to form a smooth bent surface for receiving the capsules. The intake grooves 7 run radially outward from the central area 15, and during operation, the capsules received into the depressed area are pressed by centrifugal forces towards the inlets 8 on the periphery of the disk 14 and inserted through the intake grooves 7. Capsules received between the intake grooves 7 eventually fall into the intake grooves when a gap appears in the capsule stream passing through the intake grooves.

[0049] As shown in figure 3 and figure 4, the insertion member 6 further comprises a funnel 16 attached to the top disk 10 for directing the capsules to the guide 14 of the capsules. The funnel 16 can be attached to the upper disk with screws (not shown), or alternatively the funnel 16 and the upper disk 10 can be formed as one piece.

[0050] The individual entries 8 are sized to allow entry of only one capsule at a time, and the channels 9 are dimensioned so that only a single row of capsules can move along each channel 9. Therefore, when they enter the entries 8, move the capsule along the channels 9 inside the disk 4 in one row rows until the outlet openings 13 of the capsules are reached.

[0051] Figure 7 shows the underside of the fixed suction ring 5. In practice, a vacuum pump (not shown) causes suction in the vacuum channel 17 of the suction ring 5, which thus acts as the intake area of ​​the suction mechanism. With reference to figure 7, the channel 17 passes along a circular arc 18 of the first radius around the ring. As shown, the channel 17 deflects from the circular path 18 at 17a and rotates radially inward before turning again to form a short circular arc 19 of the second radius smaller than the first radius. The vacuum channel 17 then rotates again, retreating from circular arc 19 and into arc 18. In this way, the vacuum channel 17 comprises a first circular arc area 18 of the first radius and a second circular arc area 19 of a different radius. As shown in Figure 7, the deflection of the channel 17 creates a gap 20 in the circular arc 18, which acts as a vacuum relief area 20, which will be described in more detail below. The vacuum relief area 20 is shown in figure 8 by means of dotted lines .

[0052] As shown in figures 3-5, the upper disk 10 has a plurality of pairs of through holes 21, 22 arranged to align with the areas of the circular arc 18, 19 during the rotational movement. The through holes 21, 22 are arranged to provide suction from the vacuum channel 17 with respect to the capsules in the channels. As can be seen, the outer holes 21 are arranged in a circular shape around the face of the disc 10 and are spaced at equal intervals. The pitch circle of the outer holes 21 has a radius equal to the radius of the outer arcuate area 18 of the suction ring 5. The inner holes 22 are arranged in a circular shape with a smaller radius and are evenly spaced apart. The pitch circle of the inner holes 22 has a radius equal to the inner radius of the arcuate region 19 of the suction ring 5.

[0053] As shown in figure 5, each pair of holes 21, 22 passes through the vault of one of the channels 9. In this way, each channel is provided with an external through hole 21 and an internal through hole 22 for alignment with the areas respectively arched 18, 19. Through holes 21,22 are small enough that the capsule cannot pass through. When administering capsules with a diameter of 3.5 mm, the inner holes 22 may be 4 mm apart from the outer holes 21

[0054] The outer holes 21 are arranged in the channels 9 so as to be opposite the capsule outlet holes 13 in the bottom disk 11. In this way the outer holes 21 and the capsule outlet 13 are together placed at a radial distance from the center of the disk 4, equal to the radius of the first circular arc area 18 of the vacuum channel 17.

[0055] The disk 4 is rotatably mounted concentrically by means of a fixed suction ring 5. In use, the disk 4 rotates counterclockwise (viewed from above). During rotation, the outer hole 21 of each channel 9 rotates under the first arcuate area 18 of the stationary vacuum channel 17 so that suction is fed through the suction ring 5 through the hole 21. The outer hole 21 stays in line with the vacuum channel 17 until the opening 21 reaches the vacuum relief area 20. At this point the opening 21 is no longer aligned with the vacuum channel 17, so that suction is not fed through the opening 21.

[0056] During rotation of the outermost capsule in each channel 9, it is held above the outlet opening 13 of the capsule by applying suction through the opening 21, before dispensing it. The channel and outlet 13 are dimensioned so as to prevent other capsules from sliding outwards behind the outermost capsule and to prevent passage through the outlet 13. Thus, a single row row of capsules is formed in each channel 8.

[0057] The underpressure is released with respect to the outermost capsule when the opening 21 of the channel 9a reaches the underpressure release area so that the capsule can be ejected through the outlet opening of the capsules 13.

[0058] As shown in figures 7 and 8, the suction ring 5 is provided with an ejection hole 23 located in the vacuum relief area 20 to provide compressed air to eject the capsules from the channels 8. The ejection hole 23 is positioned at the same radial displacement as the outer holes 21 of the upper disk 10 so that the outer hole 21 of the channel 9a is in combination with the ejection hole 23 because the channel 9a moves to the position of figure 8. When the channel 9a reaches the dispensing position of figure 8, an air stream from the discharge opening 23 is fed through the outer opening 21 to blow the outermost capsule in the channel 9a into the seat 3a of the dispensing wheel 3.

[0059] As can be seen, the spout 23 is in the vacuum release area 20 in such a position that the vacuum is released just before the capsule is discarded. The rotation speed of the disk 4 is so high that the capsule does not completely fall out through the outlet opening 13 in the short period of free fall after releasing the vacuum and before ejecting.

[0060] Then the next channel 9b moves to the dispensing position and at the same time the wheel 3 rotates clockwise so that the next seat 3a is positioned above the next outlet 13 in such a way that the outermost capsule in channel 9b it can be dosed.

- 11 The synchronization mechanism is provided to synchronize the rotational speed of disc 4 and wheel 3 to guarantee delivery from subsequent channels 9 to subsequent seats 3a of wheel 3. Thus, further rotation of the feeding disk 4 and wheel 3 causes the outermost capsule, in each subsequent channel 9 is gradually metered into wheel 3.

[0061] After the outermost capsule in the channel 9 is dispensed to the wheel 3, the channel 9 rotates from the vacuum relief area 20, and the centrifugal force causes the row of capsules in the channel 9 to move outwards until when the new outermost capsule reaches the opening 21, at which point it is held in place above the outlet opening 13 by suction given through the opening 21. Further rotation of the disc 4 then causes the channel 9 to return to the vacuum relief area 20, where the outermost capsule is dispensed and the cycle repeats.

[0062] The synchronization mechanism ensures that the circumferential speeds of wheel 3 and disc 4 are the same, so there is no force acting on the capsule in the tangential direction when it is moved from wheel 3 to disc 4. This in turn reduces the risk of cracked capsules in the final filter bar.

[0063] A single synchronous motor can be used to synchronously drive the disc 4 and the wheel 3 via a transmission. The corresponding gearbox is equipped with 2: 1 bevel gears. Alternatively, synchronous motors and encoders can be used to synchronize revolutions, if needed. Belt drives can be used to drive disc 4 and wheel 3.

[0064] The wheel 3 is provided with a suction housing adapted to assist the transfer of the capsules from the channels 9 of the disc 4 to the holes 3a and to hold the capsules in their positions in the holes 3a, according to how they are to be thrown into the cable. The housing is adapted so that the suction begins 10 degrees before the 12 o'clock position of the wheel. The wheel 3 also includes a discharge opening for supplying an air stream for ejecting the capsules from the wheel 3 to the filter cable. The holes 3a have a depth approximately equal to half the diameter of the capsule, such that the capsules are seated in the seats 3a on the circumference of the wheel 3 until they are ejected. This ensures that the transfer distance from disc 4 to wheel 3 is kept to a minimum, which allows for increased speed. Instead of or in addition to the suction housing, a stationary guide may be arranged on the rim of the wheel to prevent capsules from falling out.

[0065] Returning now to the description of the internal through-holes 22, these openings are located at a certain radial distance from the center of the disk equal to the radius of the second (internal) arc region 19 of the vacuum channel. As a result, as shown in Figure 8, the inner hole 22 of the channel 9 is aligned with the second arcuate area 19 when the hole 21 of the channel 9 is aligned with the vacuum relief area 20. The inner holes 22 are spaced from the outer holes 21 such that when the channel 9 is flush with the vacuum release area,

A vacuum is applied to the second outermost capsule in a row to keep it in place when the outermost capsule is dispensed. The channels 9 are dimensioned in such a way that the retained capsule prevents other capsules from passing outside through the outlet opening 13 of the capsules. In this way, outward movement in the row is restricted when the capsule is dispensed. As a result, only a single capsule is dispensed through the outlet 13 at a time.

[0066] When the channel 9a rotates outside the vacuum relief area 20, the inner opening 22 comes out of the combination with the vacuum channel 17 and suction is stopped by the inner opening 2, whereby the centrifugal force causes other capsules in the row to move outwards towards the opening outlet capsule 13, until the outermost capsule in channel 9a moves to the position above, the outlet opening 13 of the capsule, where it is held in place by the suction fed through the opening 21.

[0067] Figures 9 and 10 show cross-sectional views of the disc assembly 2 in different rotational positions. Figure 9 shows the channel 9 in the "rest" position, in which a vacuum is applied to the outermost capsule 24a in the row of capsules 24 in channel 9. As shown, in this position the outer opening 21 is aligned with the vacuum channel 17 so that keep the outermost capsule 24a in place. Figure 10 shows the channel 9 in the dispensing position. As can be seen, the outer opening 21 is in line with the ejection opening 23, and the inner opening 22 is in line with the vacuum channel 17 so as to keep the penultimate capsule 24b in place and thereby prevent the capsule 24b and other capsules in a row being dispensed.

As shown in figures 9 and 10, the exit holes 13 in the bottom disk 11 and the grooves 12 in the top disk 10 are shaped so that the outermost capsule 24a in the channel 9 is located lower in the channel 9 than second outermost capsule 24b. This prevents the capsules from getting stuck at the end of the channel 9, and also causes the outermost capsule 24 to be moved closer to the wheel 3 to reduce the distance that the capsule must travel when moving to the wheel 3.

[0069] Figures 11-20 show another feeding mechanism 30. As can be seen, as with the feeding mechanism 1 of figure 1, the feeding mechanism 30 is equipped with a disk assembly comprising a rotary feeding disk 31 which rotates relative to the fixed ring suction 32. The rotary delivery disc 31 is also equipped with a plurality of internal, radially spaced channels 33a, 33b that receive capsules from the capsule entry member 34 and which feed the capsules to the capsule outlet holes 35 in the substrate of the channels 33a, 33b, near the periphery of the outer disk. As shown in figure 12, each channel 33a, 33b is provided with a pair of through holes 36, 37, which are arranged in the same way as for the disc 10 of the feeding mechanism 1 of figure 1. The suction ring 32 is such same as the suction ring 5 of figure 7 and has the same purpose, i.e. to keep the outermost capsule

In channel 33a, 33b through the outer orifice 37 until it is dispensed and hold the second outermost capsule in place through the inner orifice 36 when the outermost capsule is dispensed. The suction ring 32 also has a discharge opening for ejecting the capsule from the delivery disk 31 when the channel 33a, 33b is in the dispensing position. Like the feeding disk 4, the feeding disk 31 is formed by an upper disk 31a and a lower disk 31b that are attached to each other. Channels 33a, 33b are delimited by radial grooves 38a, 38b in the bottom surface of the upper disk shown in figure 14. As with the feeding disk 4 of figure 2, the upper surface of the lower disk 31b defines the substrate of the channels 33a, 33b. As shown in Figure 13, each channel 32a, 33b is provided with an outlet 35 of capsules located near the outer periphery of the delivery disk 31 that passes through the substrate of the channel 33a, 33b to allow passage from the delivery disk 31 to the dispensing wheel 3.

[0070] The differences between the feeding mechanism 30 of figure 30 and the feeding mechanism 1 of figure 1 are due to the design of the input member 34 of the capsules and channels 33a, 33b.

[0071] As can be seen, the input member 34 of the capsules comprises two concentric tubes 34a, 34b which extend from the plane of the delivery disk 31. The inner tube 34a delimits the first entrance 39 of the capsules. The distance between the inner tube 34a and the outer tube 34b delimits the second entrance 40 of the capsule. As shown in figures 13 and 14, the inner tube 34a, outer tube 34b, upper disk 31a and lower disk 31b are connected to each other and to the flanges 45 by means of screw holes 46.

[0072] Referring to figure 12, the disk 31 is provided with two sets of channels 33a, 33b for guiding the capsules received respectively into the first and second entries of the capsule 39, 40. The channels 33a, 33b pass through the inner part of the disk 31 and are marked by the dashed lines in figure 12. The first and second set of channels 33a, 33b are respectively delimited by the first and second set of grooves 38a, 38b formed in the underside of disk 31a. The channels 33a, 33b of the first and second sets are alternately arranged around the disk 31. The first set of grooves 38a extends from the first entrance of 39 capsules, while the second set of grooves 38b extends from the second entrance of 40 capsules. As shown in figure 20, the second set of grooves 38b stops in the gap between inner inlet tube 34a and outer inlet tube 34b.

[0073] As shown in figure 13, the lower disk 31b has an elevated disk 41 which is similar to the raised disk 14 of figure 6. Referring to figure 14, the upper disk 31a has a recessed area 42 shaped to contain an elevated disc 41 so that the upper and lower discs 31a, 31b are flush with each other. However, in contrast to the raised disk 14, the intake grooves 43 of the raised disk 41 do not lead to each individual channel of the upper disk 31a, but only lead to every second channel 33a in the upper disk 31 a. This means that the intake grooves 43 are in line with the first channel set 33a, not with the second set

- 14 channels 33b. The passage of the capsule from the intake grooves 43 to the second set of channels 33b is blocked by the inner walls of the rotating disc 31.

[0074] Thus, the capsules received in the first entrance 39 are passed through the intake grooves 43 to the first set of channels 33a. In this way, the capsules received in the first input 39 pass only to the first set of channels 33a.

[0075] As shown in figure 13, the shorter channels 33b have elongated inlet openings 44 formed in the top surface of the upper disk 31a. These inlet holes 44 are positioned between the inner inlet tube 34a and the outer inlet tube 34b so that the capsules can pass from the second inlet of the capsules 40 through the inlet holes 44 and into the second set of channels 33b. Therefore, the shorter channels 33b start outside the inner inlet tube 34a and then pass below the outer inlet tube 34b, where they fall down to the surface of the bottom disk 31b as shown in figure 20. In use, the capsules taken in the second input of the capsules 40 fall under their own weight into the inlet openings 44 and are displaced by centrifugal force into and through the channels 33b to the channel outlet holes.

[0076] In this way, the capsules received in the second input 40 pass only into the second set of channels 33a.

[0077] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the rotary disc 31 relative to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of one of the channels 33a of the first set. Figure 19 shows the capsule path 100 from the first entry of the capsules 39 through the channel 33a.

[0078] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the rotary disc 31 relative to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of one of the channels 33b of the second set. Figure 20 shows the capsule path 110 from the second capsule entry 40 through the channel 33b.

[0079] In this way, the first set of channels 33a is loaded with capsules from the first entrance and the second set of channels 33b is loaded with capsules from the second entrance. Then there is a displacement to the metering wheel 3, as described above in relation to the feeding mechanism 1 of figure 1, i.e. the outermost capsule in each channel is maintained by the suction being fed to the suction ring 32 until the channel reaches the vacuum release area , where the vacuum switches to overpressure air feeding, which throws the capsule into the metering wheel 3. Because the channel groups 33a, 33b are arranged alternately, the capsules from the first and second input are alternately supplied to the seats of the metering wheel and thus alternately supplied to the cable.

[0080] It should be noted that the channel groups 33a, 33b need not be staggered and can be arranged in any order to provide the desired sequence of movement to the metering wheel and thus to the cable. For example, channel groups 33a, 33b can be arranged so that two capsules from the first entrance are sequentially transferred to wheel 3, then a pair of capsules from the second entrance, then a pair of capsules from the first entrance, and so on.

[0081] Capsule entrances 39, 40 can be loaded with capsules of the same type or alternatively using capsules of different types. For example, the entries of the capsules 39, 40 may be suitably loaded with capsules with different flavor characteristics. In this way, capsules of different types can be delivered to the cable in any desired order, determined in accordance with the arrangement of the channel groups 33a, 33b.

[0082] Furthermore, although the channels 38a, 38b of the disk 31a of Figure 16 are evenly spaced around the disk, this is not necessary. Alternatively, for example, channels 33a, 33b may be arranged in pairs, with the angular distance between adjacent channels in pair being smaller than the angular distance between adjacent channels in adjacent pairs. The dispensing wheel seats 3a can then be arranged in a corresponding manner relative to the channel spacing: in correspondingly spaced pairs so that the capsules are sequentially delivered from subsequent disc channels 4 to subsequent wheel seats 3. Thus, the capsules can be delivered from the dosing wheel 3 to cable at various intervals between subsequent deliveries so that any desired longitudinal arrangement of the capsules in the final filter bars can be obtained.

[0083] In some examples, the channels may deviate from the radial path. Channels can be bent. Figure 28 shows the upper disk of the alternative rotary member that has bent channels 3 a, 33b. In the corresponding lower disk (not shown), the outlet openings are arranged in juxtaposition with the end of the corresponding grooves.

[0084] As can be seen in the disk of figure 28, the channels 33a, 33b are arranged in pairs, each pair having a bent channel. The channels are bent so that the outlet holes of the channel channels in the pair are close to each other. The relatively wide angular distance between the inlet openings of the channels prevents the capsules from jamming at the entrance to the channels. The relatively narrow spacing between the outlets allows the capsules to be delivered from the steam in a direct followup, resulting in a small gap or "pitch" between these capsules when they are placed in the final filter bar.

[0085] In one example, each final filter bar contains four capsules containing a first flavor (type "A" capsule) and four capsules containing a second flavor (type "B" capsule), placed in the order ABBAABBA. Eight capsules can be arranged in four pairs, the distance between the capsules in adjacent pairs is greater than the distance between adjacent capsules in a pair, for example as shown on the filter filter bar 200 of Figure 29. In the process of cigarette production, such filter bars can be cut into sections, and the sections attached to tobacco bars to form "dual-capsule" cigarettes, i.e. cigarettes that contain two different capsules in each filter. Methods and devices for connecting cigarette filters to tobacco ingots for making cigarettes are - as such known and therefore will not be described here.

[0086] Thus, dual-capsule cigarettes currently present various options for the smoker to modify smoke properties. The smoker can selectively violate individual

- 16 capsules by applying pressure to the surface of the cigarette filter surrounding the capsule. Graphic instructions may be provided on the outside of the filter to indicate to the smoker where to apply pressure to properly rupture one capsule or the other. For example, where one of the capsules will be a menthol-containing capsule and the other capsule will be a capsule containing orange extract, the smoker may decide to squeeze the filter in such a way that only one of the capsules will break, and thus may selectively choose smoke flavoring or menthol flavor or with the aroma of orange extract. Alternatively, the smoker may tear both capsules to provide a mixed aroma, or may additionally choose an alternative solution by smoking a non-flavored cigarette by not breaking any of the capsules. In some examples, both capsules may be placed closer to the tobacco end of the cigarette than to the end of the mouth.

[0087] Figures 21-23 show an assembly 50 for mounting the suction ring 5, 32. As shown in Figures 21-23, the ring 5, 32 is attached by means of screws to the mounting ring 51 containing a series of holders 52 for holding the ring suction 5, 32 in place. Mounting ring 51 includes vacuum connections 53 for connection to a vacuum source. As can be seen, the vacuum connections are connected to the holes 54 in the ring 5, 32, which in turn are connected to the vacuum channel 17 at the bottom of the ring. In this way, a vacuum can be provided in the vacuum channel 17 via the vacuum connections 53. The mounting ring 51 also includes a compressed air connection 55, for connection to a compressed air source. The compressed air connection is in connection with the discharge opening 23 so that compressed air can be supplied to the discharge opening for ejecting the capsules.

[0088] Figure 26 shows the delivery unit 30 in its place in the filter production kit 70. As can be seen, the rotary disk 31, the suction ring 32 and the wheel 3 of the unit 30 are mounted locally in the production kit 70.

[0089] During operation of the device 70, the filter insert material in the form of a cellulose acetate filter is sucked from the source, stretched in a set of stretching rollers (not shown) and pressed with the aid of a nozzle 73, and then passes through the holder 74. Wheel 3 is adapted for delivering the capsules from the receptacles 3a directly to the cable guide, in the form of a projection 76 of the holder 74 so that the capsules come into contact with the filter cable passing here. The cable is wrapped in paper in a holder to form an elongated bar, which is then cut to form segments of the filter bar, each containing the desired number of capsules, for example, one, two, three or four.

[0090] Referring to Figure 26, the outlet opening of the nozzle 73 is separated by a gap of 10 mm from the cap holder 74 entrance. This helps to prevent the air from the filling nozzle from flowing into the holder and to become blocked in this cable, which can otherwise interfere with the positioning of the capsule. Different spacing can be used for different types of cable because more air is expected to be trapped in the cable for heavier cables. This effect can be compensated

- 17 by increasing the distance. The nozzle 73 has a conical channel with holes at the end to allow air to escape, which also contributes to reducing the passage of air from the nozzle to the cable.

[0091] Wheel 3 is rotatably mounted on body 75 of device 70 on a shaft. The projection 76 converges along its length so that it presses the filter cable radially as it passes through the projection 76. The opening is formed in the upper intake part 79 of the projection 76, the opening is wide enough to receive the disk section 3b of the wheel 3 that penetrates into the projection 4 through the hole.

[0092] Capsules coming out of the wheel 3 may fall out of the seats 3a of the wheel 6 into the cable passing through the projection 76. The wheel 3 may be equipped with a capsule ejecting mechanism, e.g. through the spike 76.

[0093] Figure 24 shows the assembly 60 intended to attach the delivery unit 30 to the filter making device 70. As shown in figure 25, the inner and outer tubes 34a, 34b can be positioned with the help of covers 61 provided with capsule supply connections 62, 63 suitably prepared for delivering capsules to entrances 39, 40.

[0094] As shown in figure 26, the device 70 can be equipped with funnels 71a, 71b. Each funnel is provided with an outlet opening 72a, 72b for supplying capsules to respective supply connections 62, 63, using tubing (not shown). In operation, hoppers 71a, 71b can be loaded with capsules of the same type or different types for insertion into final filters. The feeding from multiple funnels 71a, 71b allows for quick insertion of the capsule. In some embodiments, the hoppers 71a, 71b may be suitably filled with capsules containing various flavorings and the cutter may be so synchronized that each final filter bar produced by the machine 70 will contain one or more capsules of each type.

[0095] Each input 39, 40 capsules may be equipped with a level control mechanism, including a sensor for monitoring the level of capsules in the inputs 39, 40. The level control mechanism may be configured such that the capsules are only charged from funnels 71a, 71b to respective inputs 39, 40 when the level of capsules in the inputs 39, 40 falls below a predetermined level.

[0096] As shown in figures 24-27, the device 70 is equipped with a hinging mechanism that allows machine parts 70 to be tilted for maintenance and service, and to facilitate pushing the cable out of the nozzle 73 through the projection 4 before starting the machine. It also allows convenient cleaning of the inside of the tongue 4.

[0097] The hinge mechanism includes a hinge 78 and a lifting cylinder (not shown) passing through an opening in the bottom of the machine body. The hinge 78 is arranged such that the upper portion 70a of the device 1 can rotate upwards relative to the lower portion 70b to

- the raised position shown in figure 27. As can be seen, the upper part 70a includes the feeding mechanism 30, the intake member 79 of the projection 76 and the nozzle 3. The lower part 70b includes the fixed part 80 of the projection.

[0098] The device can be selectively positioned in any position of figure 26 or the position shown in figure 27 by raising or lowering the lifting cylinder, which can be hydraulically or pneumatically actuated.

[0099] Although Figures 24-27 show a feed unit 30 attached to a filter making kit 70, the feed unit can be matched or modernized with respect to any filter making kit, for example existing filter making kits.

[0100] Many further modifications and changes are possible.

[0101] For example, although a pneumatic mechanism in the form of a suction mechanism has been described above as serving to hold the capsules by vacuum before dispensing, however, this is not intended to be limiting. Alternatively, a pneumatic mechanism in the form of an overpressure mechanism may be used for this purpose. Figure 30 shows a hypertensive mechanism 85 adapted to administer hypertension to hold the capsule in the rotating channels prior to delivery of the capsule. As can be seen, the air pressure + P1, + P2 from the two exit holes 86, 87 acts selectively on the outer two capsules 88, 89 in channel 90. After P1 administration and P2 off, all capsules are maintained in the channel, but after P1 off and administration P2 end capsule 89 falls. In this way, the change in pressure between the two outlets allows the outermost capsule to fall off while keeping the remainder in place. Air pressure + P1, + P2 can be provided with a compressed air source. However, it should be noted that a gaseous stream other than an air stream may be used to provide overpressure from the outlet openings 86, 87.

[0102] In addition, although a feeding mechanism for feeding easily bursting capsules has been described above, variants of the feeding mechanism are provided to power other objects suitable for being placed in filter bars. The objects to be introduced include, for example, flavor beads or granules or pieces of charcoal.

[0103] Furthermore, although the feeding mechanism has been described above, in the context of feeding objects to be placed in cigarette filter bars, alternatively, the feeding mechanisms of the invention can be used to feed suitable objects to tobacco bars or to other tobacco industry products or their components.

[0104] Many other modifications and changes will become apparent to those skilled in the art that fall within the following claims:

Dorota Rzążewska Patent attorney