EP3945869A1 - Method and machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article - Google Patents

Method and machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article

Info

Publication number
EP3945869A1
EP3945869A1 EP20712194.8A EP20712194A EP3945869A1 EP 3945869 A1 EP3945869 A1 EP 3945869A1 EP 20712194 A EP20712194 A EP 20712194A EP 3945869 A1 EP3945869 A1 EP 3945869A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tubular segment
connecting strip
folding
sub
drum
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP20712194.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Massimo Malavolta
Marco Esposti
Jacopo VALDIROSA
Giuliano Gamberini
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
GD SpA
Original Assignee
GD SpA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by GD SpA filed Critical GD SpA
Publication of EP3945869A1 publication Critical patent/EP3945869A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24D—CIGARS; CIGARETTES; TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS; MOUTHPIECES FOR CIGARS OR CIGARETTES; MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS OR MOUTHPIECES
    • A24D3/00—Tobacco smoke filters, e.g. filter-tips, filtering inserts; Filters specially adapted for simulated smoking devices; Mouthpieces for cigars or cigarettes
    • A24D3/04—Tobacco smoke filters characterised by their shape or structure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24C—MACHINES FOR MAKING CIGARS OR CIGARETTES
    • A24C5/00—Making cigarettes; Making tipping materials for, or attaching filters or mouthpieces to, cigars or cigarettes
    • A24C5/01—Making cigarettes for simulated smoking devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24C—MACHINES FOR MAKING CIGARS OR CIGARETTES
    • A24C5/00—Making cigarettes; Making tipping materials for, or attaching filters or mouthpieces to, cigars or cigarettes
    • A24C5/46—Making paper tubes for cigarettes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24C—MACHINES FOR MAKING CIGARS OR CIGARETTES
    • A24C5/00—Making cigarettes; Making tipping materials for, or attaching filters or mouthpieces to, cigars or cigarettes
    • A24C5/54—Folding the ends of cigarette paper tubes after filling them with tobacco

Definitions

  • This invention addresses the technical field of the production of articles of the tobacco industry.
  • the invention relates to a machine and a method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article which may be, for example, of the type configured to generate an aerosol by heating, preferably without burning, or an electronic cigarette.
  • Prior art production methods involve making a smoking article composed of a rod-shaped body (for example a filter or a heating element) and a tube made of wrapping material which is then filled with the aerosol-generating element.
  • a rod-shaped body for example a filter or a heating element
  • a tube made of wrapping material which is then filled with the aerosol-generating element.
  • the aerosol generating element could come out of its sub-unit and find its way into the adjacent ones, thus negatively affecting the operation of the product.
  • the technical purpose which forms the basis of this invention is to propose a method and a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article which overcomes at least some of the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.
  • the aim of this invention is to provide a method and a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article capable of optimizing the production process while at the same time improving the quality and stability of the end product that can be made using it.
  • This invention discloses a method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article, comprising a step of preparing a tubular segment of the tobacco industry, specifically a segment which is internally provided with a through duct that terminates with openings at the ends of the tubular segment.
  • the method also comprises applying a connecting strip on the outside surface of the tubular segment in such a way that the connecting strip has a first portion, superposed on the tubular segment to cover a first angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment, leaving uncovered a second angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment, and at least one second portion, axially protruding from a respective end of the tubular segment.
  • the at least one second portion of the connecting strip is folded transversely to the first portion to form a closing wall which at least partly closes the end opening of the tubular segment.
  • the method of this invention allows making smoking article sub-units provided with closing walls that prevent filling materials in the smoking article from migrating from one sub-unit to another.
  • an object of this invention is a method for making a smoking article, comprising the following steps:
  • the closing wall is interposed between adjacent sub-units and thus prevents the materials inside the sub-units making up the smoking article from migrating.
  • an object of this invention is a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article and comprising a conveyor drum configured to feed a succession of double-length tubular wrappers of the tobacco industry; a feed unit for feeding a continuous web; a gumming device configured to apply an adhesive substance on at least a first portion, preferably a central portion, of the continuous web; a pair of cutting drums acting in conjunction with each other to separate a succession of connecting strips from a front end of the continuous web; and an applicator drum.
  • the applicator drum is configured to receive a succession of double-length tubular wrappers from the conveyor drum and to transport them towards an applicator station where each double-length tubular segment receives a corresponding connecting strip from one of the cutting drums.
  • the double-length tubular segment is coupled to the connecting strip in such a way that the first portion of each connecting strip is applied between opposite ends of a respective double-length tubular segment and the connecting strip has a pair of second portions that protrude axially from the ends of the tubular segment.
  • the machine also comprises folding means located at or downstream of the applicator drum to fold each second portion of the connecting strips in such a way as to make a closing wall which at least partly closes respective ends of the tubular segment.
  • the machine é configured to implement a method according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 A-E illustrate a specific embodiment of a sequence of steps relating to the method of this invention
  • FIG. 2 schematically illustrates the main components of a machine for making sub-units of smoking articles.
  • This invention relates to a method for making sub-units usable for the production of smoking articles and some significant steps of which, according to a specific embodiment, are shown sequentially in Figures 1A to 1 E.
  • the method comprises a step of preparing a tubular segment 1 of the tobacco industry.
  • tubular segment 1 is internally provided with a through duct that terminates with respective end openings.
  • the interior of the tubular segment 1 defines a duct which, when necessary, also acts as a containment chamber for containing a filling material of the tobacco industry and which leads to the open ends of the tubular segment 1 itself.
  • the through duct could therefore contain a filling material such as an aerosol-generating material, tobacco pellets, tobacco which is loose or in another form, flavouring material (for example micro-capsules containing a flavouring liquid) or a filtering material (activated charcoal, silica gel or others known in the reference sector) or even a material with cooling effect (such as PLA pellets).
  • a filling material such as an aerosol-generating material, tobacco pellets, tobacco which is loose or in another form, flavouring material (for example micro-capsules containing a flavouring liquid) or a filtering material (activated charcoal, silica gel or others known in the reference sector) or even a material with cooling effect (such as PLA pellets).
  • the method then comprises a step of applying a connecting strip 2 on the outside surface of the tubular segment 1 in such a way that the connecting strip 2 has a first portion 2a that is superposed on the tubular segment 1 to cover a first angular portion of its outside surface, leaving uncovered a second angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment.
  • the connecting strip 2 is also applied in such a way as to have at least one second portion 2b, defined by an extension of the first portion 2a, which protrudes axially from a respective end of the tubular segment 1.
  • the at least one second portion 2b of the connecting strip 2 is folded transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the first portion 2a to form a closing wall which at least partly closes a respective end opening of the tubular segment 1.
  • a method equivalent to the above involves applying the connecting strip 2 first with its second portion 2b on the respective end of the tubular segment 1 so that the first portion 2a protrudes from the respective end and then folding the first portion 2a of the connecting strip 2 longitudinally on the outside surface of the side wall of the tubular segment
  • the method involves coupling a connecting strip 2 to a tubular segment 1 in such a way that a part of the connecting strip, namely the first portion 2a, is superposed on the side wall of the tubular segment 1 and another part of it, namely the second portion 2b, extends from the first portion 1 a and is folded in such a way as to form a closing wall that prevents the filling material from passing through once the sub-unit has been assembled in a smoking article.
  • the closing wall provides a barrier which prevents any filling material of the smoking article into which the sub-unit will be placed from passing through the end opening of the tubular segment 1.
  • the closing wall is such as to allow air and/or gas and/or aerosol to pass through the end of the sub-unit, in particular in the direction of a smoker during use of the smoking article into which the sub-unit has been inserted.
  • the step of folding the second portion 2b forms a wall which completely covers the respective end opening.
  • the second portion is made at least partly of porous material.
  • a plurality of holes or perforations can be made in the continuous web 3 before it is cut, in particular in portions of the continuous web 3 intended to make each second portion 2b.
  • the holes or perforations in the continuous web 3 can be made, for example, using a laser light source.
  • the step of folding the second portion 2b may form a wall which partly covers the respective end opening.
  • the method of this invention involves making the closing wall in such a way as to create two distinct, alternative situations: a first situation in which the second portion 2b is folded to completely close the end opening of the tubular segment 1 over which it is folded; and a second situation in which the second portion 2b is folded to only partly close the end opening of the tubular segment 1 over which it is folded.
  • the second portion 2b of the connecting strip 3 is made of a porous material and/or has a plurality of holes or perforations for increasing the air or gas permeability of the closing wall in order to ensure a correct flow of air and/or gas and/or aerosol through the sub-unit.
  • the closing wall is such as to completely close off access to the duct defined by the interior of the tubular segment 1
  • the second portion is made or processed in such a way that air and/or gas and/or aerosol can in any case pass through it.
  • the closing wall is such as to only partly cover the end opening of the tubular segment 1 , the correct flow of air and/or gas and/or aerosol through the sub-unit is guaranteed by those portions of the end opening that remain uncovered and thus, the second portion 2b may be made of a material that is impermeable to air.
  • the second portion may be made of porous material and or may be provided with a plurality of holes or perforations to increase the air or gas permeability of the closing wall even if the closing wall only partly closes the end opening of the tubular segment 1.
  • the step of folding is carried out by at least one fixed folder disposed along a feed trajectory of the second portion 2b.
  • folding occurs while the tubular segment 1 provided with a respective connecting strip 2 is moved transversely by a movement drum provided with peripheral suction flutes.
  • the step of folding comprises two distinct steps: a step of pre-folding and a step of folding.
  • the at least one second portion 2b of the connecting strip 2 is folded transversely to the first portion 2a to obtain an inclined orientation of the second portion 2b relative to the first portion 2a.
  • the second portion 2b is pressed against the respective end of the tubular segment 1 , thus forming the closing wall.
  • the step of pre-folding is carried out at or just downstream of the zone where the connecting strip is applied on the respective tubular segment 1 , preferably by means of a respective movable folder.
  • the step of pre-folding may also be carried out while the tubular segment 1 provided with a respective connecting strip 2 is moved transversely by a movement drum provided with peripheral suction flutes; in particular, the movable folder may be mounted on the drum.
  • the movable folder may be moved axially or radially relative to the drum it is mounted on.
  • the movable folder has an inclined front surface which is substantially shaped to match the inclined configuration to be obtained for the second portion 2a.
  • the movable folder is stopped when the second portion 2a adopts the required pre-folding angle.
  • the method also comprises applying the connecting strip 2 on the tubular segment 1 in such away that the first portion extends between two opposite ends of the tubular segment.
  • the connecting strip 2 is applied over the full length of the tubular segment 1.
  • each connecting strip 2 is made by feeding a continuous web 3 made of a suitable material and then cutting it in such a way as to make a succession of connecting strips 2 which can then be applied on respective tubular wrappers 1.
  • the continuous web 3 may be of a size such as to be able to make a succession of connecting strips 2 side by side: that is to say, the width of the continuous web 3 is equal to the total length of the connecting strips 2.
  • the continuous web 3 may be of a size such as to be able to make a succession of connecting strips 2 in a line one after the other: that is to say, the width of the continuous web 3 is equal to the maximum width of the connecting strips 2.
  • the web Before cutting the continuous web 3, hence before dividing it into individual connecting strips 2, the web may be subjected to a gumming process in which an adhesive substance is applied on the continuous web 3, preferably on a portion of it intended to form the first portions 2a of the individual connecting strips 2.
  • the method thus comprises a step of applying an adhesive substance on the continuous web 3, in accordance with a specific, predetermined pattern.
  • the gumming process may also be performed on those portions of the continuous web 3 intended to form the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2.
  • the adhesive layer is applied according to a pattern that follows the profile of the part of the second portion 2b that is superposed on the edge of the tubular segment 1 and leaves free the part of the second portion 2b that directly faces the duct defined by the tubular segment 1.
  • the sub-unit may be subjected to a rolling process prior to the folding of the second portion 2b of the connecting strip 2.
  • the rolling process is performed by a fixed rolling bed, while the tubular segment 1 provided with the respective connecting strip 2 is moved transversely by an applicator drum 105 provided with peripheral suction flutes.
  • a double-length tubular segment 1 1 is prepared.
  • the term“double length tubular segment 1 1” is used to denote a tubular segment whose length is such that the tubular segment can be divided into two distinct parts of equal length to make two respective sub-units 1 of a smoking article.
  • the step of applying the connecting strip 2 is performed by applying a connecting strip 2 in such a way as to present a first portion 2a that is superposed on a portion of the side wall of the tubular segment 11 extending between two opposite ends of it, and a pair of second portions 2b which axially protrude from respective opposite ends of the double-length tubular segment 1 1.
  • this invention achieves the preset aims and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the user with a method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article which can guarantee the structural integrity of the finished product in which the sub-unit thus made will be included.
  • This result is obtained by applying on the tubular segment a connecting strip that is folded to form a closing wall which prevents any filling materials from passing through the closed end of the sub-unit.
  • applying a connecting strip that covers only one well-defined angular portion of the outer wall of the tubular segment 1 allows using only the quantity of material needed to make a closing wall that suitably occludes the end opening of the sub-unit.
  • This invention also relates to a method for making a smoking article which comprises a step of preparing a plurality of sub-units of smoking articles, wherein at least one of the sub-units is an intermediate sub-unit made according to the method for making a smoking article sub-unit as described herein.
  • the method for making the smoking article also comprises a step of juxtaposing the plurality of sub-units along a main direction of extension so that the closing wall of the intermediate sub-unit is interposed between the tubular segment 1 of the intermediate sub-unit and a sub-unit adjacent thereto.
  • the method described here also comprises a step of wrapping an outer covering material into a tubular shape around the sub-units in such a way that the first portion 2a of the connecting strip 2 is disposed and held between the respective tubular segment 1 and the outer covering material; the first portion 2a of the connecting strip 2 is preferably glued to the tubular segment 1.
  • the closing wall is interposed between the end openings of adjacent sub-units, thereby preventing the filling material of the smoking article from migrating from one sub-unit to the other.
  • an object of this invention is a machine for making sub-units of smoking articles, specifically by implementing a method as described in the foregoing.
  • machine 100 generically denotes a machine for making a smoking article according to this invention and hereinafter referred to in this description simply as "machine 100”.
  • the machine 100 comprises a conveyor drum 101 configured to feed a succession of double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 of the tobacco industry. As described above, the double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 will, in subsequent steps of the production process, be cut to make a pair of subunits of a smoking article.
  • the machine 100 also comprises a feed unit 102 configured to store and to convey the continuous web 3 through the different steps of the production process necessary for making the connecting strips 2.
  • the continuous web 3 can be conveyed either in such a way that the connecting strips just separated from the continuous web 3 advance side by side or in such a way that the connecting strips 2 just separated from the continuous web 3 advance in a line one after the other.
  • the machine 100 also comprises a gumming device 103 associated with the feed unit 102 and disposed along a conveying path of the continuous web 3.
  • the gumming device 103 is configured to apply an adhesive substance on at least a first portion, preferably a central portion, of the continuous web.
  • the central portion is intended to form the first portions 2a of respective connecting strips 2.
  • the gumming device 103 may be configured to apply the adhesive substance also on further portions of the continuous web, specifically on portions intended to form the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2.
  • the machine 100 also comprises a pair of cutting drums 104 acting in conjunction with each other to separate a succession of connecting strips 2 from a front end of the continuous web 3.
  • the pair of cutting drums 104 comprises a first drum 104a whose surface is provided with a succession of cutting blades configured to engage the continuous web 3 to separate the succession of connecting strips 2 therefrom.
  • the pair of cutting drums 104 also comprises a second drum 104b configured to convey the continuous web 3 so it engages the cutting blades of the first drum 104a.
  • the second drum 104b is also configured to space the individual connecting strips 2 radially from each other once they have been separated from the continuous web 3; this makes it easier for them to be subsequently applied on the respective double-length tubular wrappers 1 1.
  • the machine 100 also comprises an applicator drum 105 configured to receive a succession of double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 from the conveyor drum 101 and to transport them towards an applicator station.
  • each double-length tubular segment 1 1 receives a corresponding connecting strip 2 from a drum of the pair of cutting drums 104 in such a way that the first portion 2a of each connecting strip 2 is applied between opposite ends of a respective double-length tubular segment 1 1 and the connecting strip has a pair of second portions 2b axially protruding from the ends of the double length tubular segment 1 1.
  • the machine 100 also comprises folding means 106 located at or downstream of the applicator drum 105 to fold each second portion 2b of the connecting strips 2 in such a way as to make a closing wall which at least partly closes respective ends of the double-length tubular segment 1 1.
  • the folding means 106 may, for example, comprise guides that are adapted to engage the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2 and to guide them in rotation along a path towards the respective end openings of the double-length tubular segment 1 1 so as to fold them transversely to the first portion 2a.
  • the folding means 106 comprise a fixed folder associated with the applicator drum 105 or applied on a drum just downstream of the applicator drum 105.
  • the folding means 106 comprise a pre-folding station and a folding station.
  • the pre-folding station is disposed at, or just downstream of, a zone where the connecting strips 2 are transferred from the cutting drums 104 to the applicator drum 105.
  • the pre-folding station comprises a movable folding device.
  • the movable folding device may be mounted on a specific drum disposed at the transfer zone of the connecting strips 2.
  • the folding station comprises a fixed folder associated with the applicator drum 105 or applied on a drum just downstream of the applicator drum 105.
  • the machine 100 further comprises a rolling bed associated with the applicator drum 105 in order to roll each group comprising a doublelength tubular segment 1 1 and a respective connecting strip 2 applied thereon.
  • the rolling bed is disposed upstream of the folding means 106 so that the rolling bed can strengthen the adherence of the connecting strip to the outer wall of the double-length tubular segment 1 1 before the second portions 2b are folded.
  • the machine 100 also comprises a cutting device 107 located downstream of the folding means 106 and configured to cut the double-length tubular segment 1 1 along its mid-plane M to obtain two sub-units of the tobacco industry abutted end to end at the mid-plane M.
  • the cutting device 107 may, for example, be embodied in a cutting blade which engages the double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 as they move along their feed path away from the folding means 106b, preferably when the double-length tubular wrappers 11 have been transferred from the applicator drum 105 to a further drum 108.
  • the further drum 108 is specifically configured to act in conjunction with the cutting device 107 to correctly divide each double-length tubular segment 11 into two smoking article sub-units abutted end to end.
  • this invention achieves the preset aims and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the user with a machine for making sub-units of smoking articles which allows making a succession of sub-units which are each provided with a closing wall adapted to hold the filling material within the smoking article, in particular after the finished product has been assembled.

Landscapes

  • Cigarettes, Filters, And Manufacturing Of Filters (AREA)

Abstract

A method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article comprises a step of preparing a tubular segment (1) of the tobacco industry, specifically a segment which is internally provided with a through duct that terminates with a pair of opposite end openings. The method also comprises applying a connecting strip (2) on the outside surface of the tubular segment (1) in such a way that the connecting strip (2) has a first portion (2a), superposed on the tubular segment (1) to cover a first angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment (1), leaving uncovered a second angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment (1), and at least one second portion (2b), axially protruding from a respective end of the tubular segment (1). Next, the at least one second portion (2b) of the connecting strip (2) is folded transversely to the first portion (2a) to form a closing wall which at least partly closes the end opening of the tubular segment (1).

Description

DESCRIPTION
METHOD AND MACHINE FOR MAKING A SUB-UNIT OF A SMOKING
ARTICLE
Technical field
This invention addresses the technical field of the production of articles of the tobacco industry.
More specifically, the invention relates to a machine and a method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article which may be, for example, of the type configured to generate an aerosol by heating, preferably without burning, or an electronic cigarette.
In this context, in order to be able to ensure the quality of the finished product, it is very important to guarantee that the active material - that is, the material that generates the aerosol - is correctly contained and retained both during the production process and during use of the article.
Background art
Prior art production methods involve making a smoking article composed of a rod-shaped body (for example a filter or a heating element) and a tube made of wrapping material which is then filled with the aerosol-generating element.
However, this solution is not very suitable for guaranteeing the integrity of the article, in particular because it does not guarantee correctly retaining the aerosol generating element - that is, the active portion of the smoking article - in the tubular segment when the smoker inhales.
That means that during use of the smoking article, the aerosol generating element could come out of its sub-unit and find its way into the adjacent ones, thus negatively affecting the operation of the product.
Indeed, the effect of the smoker puffing at the smoking article could have the undesirable result of causing the aerosol generating element or any of the other materials making up the smoking article to come out of the subunit. Aim of the invention
In this context, the technical purpose which forms the basis of this invention is to propose a method and a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article which overcomes at least some of the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.
In particular, the aim of this invention is to provide a method and a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article capable of optimizing the production process while at the same time improving the quality and stability of the end product that can be made using it.
The technical purpose indicated and the aims specified are substantially achieved by a method and a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article comprising the technical features described in one or more of the accompanying claims.
This invention discloses a method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article, comprising a step of preparing a tubular segment of the tobacco industry, specifically a segment which is internally provided with a through duct that terminates with openings at the ends of the tubular segment.
The method also comprises applying a connecting strip on the outside surface of the tubular segment in such a way that the connecting strip has a first portion, superposed on the tubular segment to cover a first angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment, leaving uncovered a second angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment, and at least one second portion, axially protruding from a respective end of the tubular segment.
Next, the at least one second portion of the connecting strip is folded transversely to the first portion to form a closing wall which at least partly closes the end opening of the tubular segment.
Advantageously, the method of this invention allows making smoking article sub-units provided with closing walls that prevent filling materials in the smoking article from migrating from one sub-unit to another. Also an object of this invention is a method for making a smoking article, comprising the following steps:
- preparing a plurality of sub-units of smoking articles, wherein at least one of the sub-units is an intermediate sub-unit made according to the method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article according to this invention;
- juxtaposing the plurality of sub-units along a main direction of extension so that the closing wall of the intermediate sub-unit is interposed between the tubular segment of the intermediate sub-unit and a sub-unit adjacent thereto.
That way, the closing wall is interposed between adjacent sub-units and thus prevents the materials inside the sub-units making up the smoking article from migrating.
Also an object of this invention is a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article and comprising a conveyor drum configured to feed a succession of double-length tubular wrappers of the tobacco industry; a feed unit for feeding a continuous web; a gumming device configured to apply an adhesive substance on at least a first portion, preferably a central portion, of the continuous web; a pair of cutting drums acting in conjunction with each other to separate a succession of connecting strips from a front end of the continuous web; and an applicator drum.
More specifically, the applicator drum is configured to receive a succession of double-length tubular wrappers from the conveyor drum and to transport them towards an applicator station where each double-length tubular segment receives a corresponding connecting strip from one of the cutting drums.
The double-length tubular segment is coupled to the connecting strip in such a way that the first portion of each connecting strip is applied between opposite ends of a respective double-length tubular segment and the connecting strip has a pair of second portions that protrude axially from the ends of the tubular segment. The machine also comprises folding means located at or downstream of the applicator drum to fold each second portion of the connecting strips in such a way as to make a closing wall which at least partly closes respective ends of the tubular segment.
Preferably, the machine è configured to implement a method according to the invention.
The dependent claims, which are incorporated herein by reference, correspond to different embodiments of the method and of the machine according to this invention.
Brief description of the drawings
Further features and advantages of this invention are more apparent in the non-limiting description below, with reference to a preferred, but nonexclusive embodiment of a method and a machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which:
- Figures 1 A-E illustrate a specific embodiment of a sequence of steps relating to the method of this invention;
- Figure 2 schematically illustrates the main components of a machine for making sub-units of smoking articles.
Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention
This invention relates to a method for making sub-units usable for the production of smoking articles and some significant steps of which, according to a specific embodiment, are shown sequentially in Figures 1A to 1 E.
The method comprises a step of preparing a tubular segment 1 of the tobacco industry.
More specifically, the tubular segment 1 is internally provided with a through duct that terminates with respective end openings.
In other words, the interior of the tubular segment 1 defines a duct which, when necessary, also acts as a containment chamber for containing a filling material of the tobacco industry and which leads to the open ends of the tubular segment 1 itself.
By way of a non-limiting example, the through duct could therefore contain a filling material such as an aerosol-generating material, tobacco pellets, tobacco which is loose or in another form, flavouring material (for example micro-capsules containing a flavouring liquid) or a filtering material (activated charcoal, silica gel or others known in the reference sector) or even a material with cooling effect (such as PLA pellets).
The method then comprises a step of applying a connecting strip 2 on the outside surface of the tubular segment 1 in such a way that the connecting strip 2 has a first portion 2a that is superposed on the tubular segment 1 to cover a first angular portion of its outside surface, leaving uncovered a second angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment.
The connecting strip 2 is also applied in such a way as to have at least one second portion 2b, defined by an extension of the first portion 2a, which protrudes axially from a respective end of the tubular segment 1.
Next, the at least one second portion 2b of the connecting strip 2 is folded transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the first portion 2a to form a closing wall which at least partly closes a respective end opening of the tubular segment 1.
It should be noted that a method equivalent to the above involves applying the connecting strip 2 first with its second portion 2b on the respective end of the tubular segment 1 so that the first portion 2a protrudes from the respective end and then folding the first portion 2a of the connecting strip 2 longitudinally on the outside surface of the side wall of the tubular segment
1.
In other words, the method involves coupling a connecting strip 2 to a tubular segment 1 in such a way that a part of the connecting strip, namely the first portion 2a, is superposed on the side wall of the tubular segment 1 and another part of it, namely the second portion 2b, extends from the first portion 1 a and is folded in such a way as to form a closing wall that prevents the filling material from passing through once the sub-unit has been assembled in a smoking article.
In particular, the closing wall provides a barrier which prevents any filling material of the smoking article into which the sub-unit will be placed from passing through the end opening of the tubular segment 1.
At the same time, the closing wall is such as to allow air and/or gas and/or aerosol to pass through the end of the sub-unit, in particular in the direction of a smoker during use of the smoking article into which the sub-unit has been inserted.
In a first possible embodiment, the step of folding the second portion 2b forms a wall which completely covers the respective end opening.
In this embodiment, the second portion is made at least partly of porous material.
To maintain or increase the air and/or gas permeability of the closing wall, a plurality of holes or perforations can be made in the continuous web 3 before it is cut, in particular in portions of the continuous web 3 intended to make each second portion 2b.
The holes or perforations in the continuous web 3 can be made, for example, using a laser light source.
Alternatively, the step of folding the second portion 2b may form a wall which partly covers the respective end opening.
In other words, the method of this invention involves making the closing wall in such a way as to create two distinct, alternative situations: a first situation in which the second portion 2b is folded to completely close the end opening of the tubular segment 1 over which it is folded; and a second situation in which the second portion 2b is folded to only partly close the end opening of the tubular segment 1 over which it is folded.
In the case where the closing wall completely covers the end opening of the tubular segment 1 , at least the second portion 2b of the connecting strip 3 is made of a porous material and/or has a plurality of holes or perforations for increasing the air or gas permeability of the closing wall in order to ensure a correct flow of air and/or gas and/or aerosol through the sub-unit. In other words, if the closing wall is such as to completely close off access to the duct defined by the interior of the tubular segment 1 , the second portion is made or processed in such a way that air and/or gas and/or aerosol can in any case pass through it.
On the other hand, in the case where the closing wall is such as to only partly cover the end opening of the tubular segment 1 , the correct flow of air and/or gas and/or aerosol through the sub-unit is guaranteed by those portions of the end opening that remain uncovered and thus, the second portion 2b may be made of a material that is impermeable to air.
In this case, too, however, the second portion may be made of porous material and or may be provided with a plurality of holes or perforations to increase the air or gas permeability of the closing wall even if the closing wall only partly closes the end opening of the tubular segment 1.
More specifically, the step of folding is carried out by at least one fixed folder disposed along a feed trajectory of the second portion 2b.
Preferably, folding occurs while the tubular segment 1 provided with a respective connecting strip 2 is moved transversely by a movement drum provided with peripheral suction flutes.
According to a specific aspect of this invention, the step of folding comprises two distinct steps: a step of pre-folding and a step of folding.
In the step of pre-folding, the at least one second portion 2b of the connecting strip 2 is folded transversely to the first portion 2a to obtain an inclined orientation of the second portion 2b relative to the first portion 2a. Next, in the step of folding, the second portion 2b is pressed against the respective end of the tubular segment 1 , thus forming the closing wall.
More specifically, the step of pre-folding is carried out at or just downstream of the zone where the connecting strip is applied on the respective tubular segment 1 , preferably by means of a respective movable folder.
The step of pre-folding may also be carried out while the tubular segment 1 provided with a respective connecting strip 2 is moved transversely by a movement drum provided with peripheral suction flutes; in particular, the movable folder may be mounted on the drum.
More specifically, the movable folder may be moved axially or radially relative to the drum it is mounted on.
In the case of axial movement, the movable folder has an inclined front surface which is substantially shaped to match the inclined configuration to be obtained for the second portion 2a.
In the case of radial movement, on the other hand, the movable folder is stopped when the second portion 2a adopts the required pre-folding angle. The method also comprises applying the connecting strip 2 on the tubular segment 1 in such away that the first portion extends between two opposite ends of the tubular segment.
More specifically, the connecting strip 2 is applied over the full length of the tubular segment 1.
The first portion 2a is thus applied in such a way as to completely cover the first angular portion of the tubular segment 1 , from one end to the other. More specifically, each connecting strip 2 is made by feeding a continuous web 3 made of a suitable material and then cutting it in such a way as to make a succession of connecting strips 2 which can then be applied on respective tubular wrappers 1.
The continuous web 3 may be of a size such as to be able to make a succession of connecting strips 2 side by side: that is to say, the width of the continuous web 3 is equal to the total length of the connecting strips 2. Alternatively, the continuous web 3 may be of a size such as to be able to make a succession of connecting strips 2 in a line one after the other: that is to say, the width of the continuous web 3 is equal to the maximum width of the connecting strips 2.
Before cutting the continuous web 3, hence before dividing it into individual connecting strips 2, the web may be subjected to a gumming process in which an adhesive substance is applied on the continuous web 3, preferably on a portion of it intended to form the first portions 2a of the individual connecting strips 2.
The method thus comprises a step of applying an adhesive substance on the continuous web 3, in accordance with a specific, predetermined pattern. The gumming process may also be performed on those portions of the continuous web 3 intended to form the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2.
Preferably, if also applied on the second portions 2b, the adhesive layer is applied according to a pattern that follows the profile of the part of the second portion 2b that is superposed on the edge of the tubular segment 1 and leaves free the part of the second portion 2b that directly faces the duct defined by the tubular segment 1.
To promote correct application and adherence of the connecting strip 2 to the tubular segment 1 , the sub-unit may be subjected to a rolling process prior to the folding of the second portion 2b of the connecting strip 2.
More specifically, the rolling process is performed by a fixed rolling bed, while the tubular segment 1 provided with the respective connecting strip 2 is moved transversely by an applicator drum 105 provided with peripheral suction flutes.
According to one particular aspect of this invention, in the step of preparing the tubular segment 1 , a double-length tubular segment 1 1 is prepared. The term“double length tubular segment 1 1” is used to denote a tubular segment whose length is such that the tubular segment can be divided into two distinct parts of equal length to make two respective sub-units 1 of a smoking article.
Also in this embodiment, the step of applying the connecting strip 2 is performed by applying a connecting strip 2 in such a way as to present a first portion 2a that is superposed on a portion of the side wall of the tubular segment 11 extending between two opposite ends of it, and a pair of second portions 2b which axially protrude from respective opposite ends of the double-length tubular segment 1 1.
There is also a step of cutting the double-length tubular segment 1 1 , provided with the connecting strip 2 applied and folded along a mid-plane M of it, to obtain two sub-units of the tobacco industry abutted end to end at the mid-plane M of the double-length tubular segment 1 1.
Advantageously, this invention achieves the preset aims and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the user with a method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article which can guarantee the structural integrity of the finished product in which the sub-unit thus made will be included. This result is obtained by applying on the tubular segment a connecting strip that is folded to form a closing wall which prevents any filling materials from passing through the closed end of the sub-unit.
Also, applying a connecting strip that covers only one well-defined angular portion of the outer wall of the tubular segment 1 allows using only the quantity of material needed to make a closing wall that suitably occludes the end opening of the sub-unit.
This invention also relates to a method for making a smoking article which comprises a step of preparing a plurality of sub-units of smoking articles, wherein at least one of the sub-units is an intermediate sub-unit made according to the method for making a smoking article sub-unit as described herein.
The method for making the smoking article also comprises a step of juxtaposing the plurality of sub-units along a main direction of extension so that the closing wall of the intermediate sub-unit is interposed between the tubular segment 1 of the intermediate sub-unit and a sub-unit adjacent thereto.
The method described here also comprises a step of wrapping an outer covering material into a tubular shape around the sub-units in such a way that the first portion 2a of the connecting strip 2 is disposed and held between the respective tubular segment 1 and the outer covering material; the first portion 2a of the connecting strip 2 is preferably glued to the tubular segment 1.
That way, the closing wall is interposed between the end openings of adjacent sub-units, thereby preventing the filling material of the smoking article from migrating from one sub-unit to the other.
Also an object of this invention is a machine for making sub-units of smoking articles, specifically by implementing a method as described in the foregoing.
The reference numeral 100 in Figure 2 generically denotes a machine for making a smoking article according to this invention and hereinafter referred to in this description simply as "machine 100”.
The machine 100 comprises a conveyor drum 101 configured to feed a succession of double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 of the tobacco industry. As described above, the double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 will, in subsequent steps of the production process, be cut to make a pair of subunits of a smoking article.
The machine 100 also comprises a feed unit 102 configured to store and to convey the continuous web 3 through the different steps of the production process necessary for making the connecting strips 2.
The continuous web 3 can be conveyed either in such a way that the connecting strips just separated from the continuous web 3 advance side by side or in such a way that the connecting strips 2 just separated from the continuous web 3 advance in a line one after the other.
The machine 100 also comprises a gumming device 103 associated with the feed unit 102 and disposed along a conveying path of the continuous web 3.
The gumming device 103 is configured to apply an adhesive substance on at least a first portion, preferably a central portion, of the continuous web. Preferably, the central portion is intended to form the first portions 2a of respective connecting strips 2.
The gumming device 103 may be configured to apply the adhesive substance also on further portions of the continuous web, specifically on portions intended to form the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2. The machine 100 also comprises a pair of cutting drums 104 acting in conjunction with each other to separate a succession of connecting strips 2 from a front end of the continuous web 3.
More specifically, the pair of cutting drums 104 comprises a first drum 104a whose surface is provided with a succession of cutting blades configured to engage the continuous web 3 to separate the succession of connecting strips 2 therefrom.
The pair of cutting drums 104 also comprises a second drum 104b configured to convey the continuous web 3 so it engages the cutting blades of the first drum 104a.
The second drum 104b is also configured to space the individual connecting strips 2 radially from each other once they have been separated from the continuous web 3; this makes it easier for them to be subsequently applied on the respective double-length tubular wrappers 1 1.
The machine 100 also comprises an applicator drum 105 configured to receive a succession of double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 from the conveyor drum 101 and to transport them towards an applicator station.
At the applicator station, each double-length tubular segment 1 1 receives a corresponding connecting strip 2 from a drum of the pair of cutting drums 104 in such a way that the first portion 2a of each connecting strip 2 is applied between opposite ends of a respective double-length tubular segment 1 1 and the connecting strip has a pair of second portions 2b axially protruding from the ends of the double length tubular segment 1 1.
The machine 100 also comprises folding means 106 located at or downstream of the applicator drum 105 to fold each second portion 2b of the connecting strips 2 in such a way as to make a closing wall which at least partly closes respective ends of the double-length tubular segment 1 1. The folding means 106 may, for example, comprise guides that are adapted to engage the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2 and to guide them in rotation along a path towards the respective end openings of the double-length tubular segment 1 1 so as to fold them transversely to the first portion 2a. In one particular embodiment, the folding means 106 comprise a fixed folder associated with the applicator drum 105 or applied on a drum just downstream of the applicator drum 105.
Alternatively, in a different embodiment, the folding means 106 comprise a pre-folding station and a folding station.
The pre-folding station is disposed at, or just downstream of, a zone where the connecting strips 2 are transferred from the cutting drums 104 to the applicator drum 105.
More specifically, the pre-folding station comprises a movable folding device.
The movable folding device may be mounted on a specific drum disposed at the transfer zone of the connecting strips 2.
Also in this embodiment, the folding station comprises a fixed folder associated with the applicator drum 105 or applied on a drum just downstream of the applicator drum 105.
Preferably, the machine 100 further comprises a rolling bed associated with the applicator drum 105 in order to roll each group comprising a doublelength tubular segment 1 1 and a respective connecting strip 2 applied thereon.
Preferably, the rolling bed is disposed upstream of the folding means 106 so that the rolling bed can strengthen the adherence of the connecting strip to the outer wall of the double-length tubular segment 1 1 before the second portions 2b are folded.
In effect, the greater the width of the connecting strips 2, the smaller the contact portion between them and the double-length tubular segment 11 compared to their overall surface area.
Thanks to the rolling bed, therefore, it is possible for the second portions 2b of the connecting strips 2 to not be folded until after the first portions 2a have been made to adhere fully and completely to the outer wall of the respective double-length tubular segment 1 1.
According to a particular aspect of this invention, the machine 100 also comprises a cutting device 107 located downstream of the folding means 106 and configured to cut the double-length tubular segment 1 1 along its mid-plane M to obtain two sub-units of the tobacco industry abutted end to end at the mid-plane M.
The cutting device 107 may, for example, be embodied in a cutting blade which engages the double-length tubular wrappers 1 1 as they move along their feed path away from the folding means 106b, preferably when the double-length tubular wrappers 11 have been transferred from the applicator drum 105 to a further drum 108.
The further drum 108 is specifically configured to act in conjunction with the cutting device 107 to correctly divide each double-length tubular segment 11 into two smoking article sub-units abutted end to end.
Advantageously, this invention achieves the preset aims and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing the user with a machine for making sub-units of smoking articles which allows making a succession of sub-units which are each provided with a closing wall adapted to hold the filling material within the smoking article, in particular after the finished product has been assembled.

Claims

1. A method for making a sub-unit of a smoking article, comprising the steps of:
preparing a tubular segment (1 ) of the tobacco industry, the tubular segment (1 ) being internally provided with a through duct terminating with end openings of the tubular segment (1 );
applying a connecting strip (2) on the outside surface of the tubular segment (1 ) in such a way that the connecting strip (2) has a first portion (2a), superposed on the tubular segment (1 ) to cover a first angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment (1 ), leaving uncovered a second angular portion of the outside surface of the tubular segment (1), and at least one second portion (2b), axially protruding from a respective end of the tubular segment (1 );
folding the at least one second portion (2b) of the connecting strip (2) transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the first portion (2a) to form a closing wall which at least partly closes a respective end opening of the tubular segment (1 ).
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the connecting strip (2) is applied to the tubular segment (1 ) in such a way that the first portion (2a) extends for the full length of the tubular segment (1 ).
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the step of applying the connecting strip (2) is preceded by the following steps:
- feeding a continuous web (3) of material suitable for making the connecting strip (2);
- cutting the continuous web (3) to make a succession of connecting strips (2) adapted to be applied to respective tubular segments (1 ).
4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the step of cutting the continuous web (3) is preceded by a step of applying on the continuous web (3) an adhesive substance according to a specific, predetermined pattern.
5. The method according to claim 5, wherein the step of applying the adhesive substance on the continuous web (3) is accomplished by applying the adhesive substance at least on a portion of the continuous web (3) suitable for defining the first portion (2a) of the connecting strip (2) and preferably also on a portion of the continuous web (3) suitable for defining the at least one second portion (2b).
6. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the step of folding the second portion (2b) to define the closing wall results in completely covering the respective end opening and wherein the second portion (2b) is at least partly made of a porous material and/or is provided with openings to allow air or gas to pass.
7. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising a step of increasing the air and/or gas permeability of the closing wall, preferably by making a plurality of holes or perforations in the continuous web (3) before the step of cutting, in particular in portions of the continuous web (3) intended to make the at least one second portion (2b).
8. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the step of applying the connecting strip (2) on the outside surface of the tubular segment (1 ) is accomplished by a rolling process and wherein the step of folding is carried out after rolling.
9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the rolling process is performed by a fixed rolling bed, while the tubular segment (1 ) provided with the respective connecting strip (2) is moved transversely by an applicator drum (105) provided with peripheral suction flutes.
10. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the step of folding is performed by at least one fixed folder disposed along a feed trajectory of the second portion (2b), preferably while the tubular segment (1 ) provided with the respective connecting strip (2) is moved transversely by a movement drum provided with peripheral suction flutes.
1 1. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the step of folding comprises a step of pre-folding in which the at least one second portion (2b) of the connecting strip (2) is folded transversely to the first portion (2a) to obtain an inclined orientation of the second portion (2b) relative to the first portion (2a), followed by a step of folding, distinct from the step of pre-folding, in which the second portion (2b) is pressed flat against the respective end of the tubular segment (1 ) to form the closing wall.
12. The method according to claim 1 1 , wherein the step of pre-folding is carried out at or just downstream of the zone where the connecting strip is applied on the respective tubular segment (1 ), preferably by means of a respective movable folder.
13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of pre-folding is carried out while the tubular segment (1 ) provided with the respective connecting strip is moved transversely by an applicator drum (105) provided with peripheral suction flutes and wherein the movable folder is mounted on the applicator drum (15).
14. The method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the step of preparing a tubular segment (1 ) comprises preparing a double-length tubular segment (1 1 ) and wherein the step of applying the connecting strip (2) is accomplished by applying the connecting strip (2) in such a way that the first portion (2a) is superposed on the double-length tubular segment (1 1 ), thereby obtaining a pair of second portions axially protruding from respective opposite ends of the double-length tubular segment (1 1 ), the method further comprising a step of cutting the doublelength tubular segment (1 1 ), provided with the connecting strip (2) applied and folded, along a mid-plane (M) to obtain two sub-units of the tobacco industry abutted end to end at the mid-plane (M).
15. A method for making a smoking article, comprising the steps of: preparing a plurality of sub-units of smoking articles, wherein at least one of the sub-units is an intermediate sub-unit made according to one or more of the preceding claims;
juxtaposing the plurality of sub-units along a main direction of extension of the smoking article so that the closing wall of the intermediate sub-unit is interposed between the tubular segment (1 ) of the intermediate sub-unit and a sub-unit adjacent thereto.
16. The method according to claim 15, comprising a step of wrapping an outer covering material into a tubular shape around the sub-units and wherein the first portion (2a) of the connecting strip (2) is positioned and held between the respective tubular segment (1 ) and the outer covering material, the first portion (2a) of the connecting strip (2) being preferably glued to the tubular segment (1 ).
17. A machine for making sub-units of smoking articles preferably by implementing a method according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising:
a conveyor drum (101 ) configured to feed a succession of doublelength tubular segments of the tobacco industry;
a feed unit (102) for feeding a continuous web (3);
a gumming device (103) configured to apply an adhesive substance on at least a first portion (2a), preferably a central portion, of the continuous web (3);
a pair of cutting drums (104) acting in conjunction with each other to separate a succession of connecting strips (2) from a front end of the continuous web (3);
an applicator drum (105) configured to receive a succession of double-length tubular segments (1 1 ) from the conveyor drum (101) and to transport the double-length tubular segments (11 ) towards an applicator station where each double-length tubular segment (1 1 ) receives a corresponding connecting strip (2) from a drum of the pair of cutting drums (104) in such a way that the first portion (2a) of each connecting strip (2) is applied between opposite ends of a respective double-length tubular segment (1 1 ) and the connecting strip (2) has a pair of second portions (2b) axially protruding from the ends of the double length tubular segment (1 1 );
folding means (106) located at or downstream of the applicator drum (105) to fold each second portion (2b) of the connecting strips (2) in such a way as to make a closing wall which at least partly closes respective ends of the double-length tubular segment (1 1 ).
18. The machine according to claim 17, wherein the folding means (106) comprise a fixed folder associated with the applicator drum (105) or applied on a drum just downstream of the applicator drum (105).
19. The machine according to claim 17, wherein the folding means comprise a pre-folding station and a folding station, the pre-folding station being located at, or just downstream of, a transfer zone for transferring the connecting strips (2) between the cutting drums (104) and the applicator drum (105), the pre-folding station comprising a movable folding device.
20. The machine according to claim 19, wherein the movable folder is mounted on a drum.
21. The machine according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the folding station comprises a fixed folder associated with the applicator drum (105) or applied on a drum just downstream of the applicator drum (105).
22. The machine according to one or more of claims 17-21 , comprising a cutting device (107) located downstream of the folding means (106) and configured to cut the double-length tubular segment (11 ) along its mid-plane (M) to obtain two sub-units of the tobacco industry abutted end to end at the mid-plane (M).
23. The machine according to one or more of claims 17-22, comprising a rolling bed coupled to the applicator drum (105) in order to roll each group comprising a double-length tubular segment (1 1 ) and a respective connecting strip (2) applied thereon, the rolling bed being preferably located upstream of the folding means (106).
EP20712194.8A 2019-03-27 2020-03-26 Method and machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article Pending EP3945869A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102019000004557A IT201900004557A1 (en) 2019-03-27 2019-03-27 METHOD AND MACHINE FOR THE REALIZATION OF A SUB-UNIT OF A SMOKING ARTICLE
PCT/IB2020/052866 WO2020194232A1 (en) 2019-03-27 2020-03-26 Method and machine for making a sub-unit of a smoking article

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EP3945869A1 true EP3945869A1 (en) 2022-02-09

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WO2023117930A1 (en) * 2021-12-22 2023-06-29 Jt International Sa Heat-not-burn aerosol generating article with sealed closure on tobacco rod

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DE102005012810A1 (en) * 2005-03-17 2006-10-05 Hauni Maschinenbau Ag Process for the production of filter cigarettes
GB0714972D0 (en) * 2007-08-01 2007-09-12 British American Tobacco Co Method and apparatus for forming tobacco rods
KR101823941B1 (en) * 2017-06-13 2018-03-14 한상운 Cigarette front closing tool for apparatus for making cigarette and cigarette front closing set using the same

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