DE102019125295A1 - Apparatus and method for producing a strand and an article produced therefrom for the tobacco processing industry - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (2) and a method for producing a strand (4) for the tobacco-processing industry, as well as an article made from such a strand (4). The device comprises a separating device (12) which is designed to split a flat web (6) into a plurality of strips (14). A flat web (6) is separated into separate strips (14) by means of a first and a second roller (26, 28) which interacts with the latter and whose outer surfaces (30, 32) have alternating circumferential grooves (34) and elevations (36). A first width (B1) of a first elevation (361) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and a first associated width (BZ1) of a first groove (341) of the second or first roller ( 28, 26) are larger or smaller than a second width (B2) of a second elevation (362) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and a second associated width (BZ2) of a second groove cooperating with the second elevation (362) (342) of the second or first roller (28, 26). A strand (4) of the tobacco processing industry is formed from the multiplicity of strips (14).

Description

The invention relates to a device for producing a strand in the tobacco processing industry, comprising a separating device which is designed to split a flat web into a plurality of strips. The invention also relates to a method for producing a strand in the tobacco processing industry. The invention also relates to a rod-shaped article of the tobacco processing industry made from a strand of the tobacco processing industry.

A device of the tobacco processing industry which comprises a separating device with which a flat web of reconstituted tobacco material is separated into a plurality of strips and then combined to form a strand is shown in, for example DE 1 954 036 known. The flat web is cut into parallel strips using a circular knife cutting device. The individual disc knives of this device cut the flat web in that the cutting edges of the interacting knives in contact with one another slide against one another. So there is a cutting process, as it is known, for example, from the blades of a pair of scissors. The individual strips are combined into a strand and surrounded with an outer covering. The wrapped strand is then cut into pieces of predetermined length so that rod-shaped articles, for example cigarettes or the like, can be produced.

Flat tracks are provided on bobbins, for example. Since each bobbin can only accommodate a finite length of a rolled up flat web, the technical task of changing the bobbin arises at some point. When changing from one bobbin to the next bobbin, a first flat track must also be connected to a subsequent second flat track so that an uninterrupted production process is possible. So-called reel changers are used for this purpose.

From the DE 25 26 850 a device and a method are known with which or in the case of tobacco foils a longitudinal structure is embossed. The tobacco foils are embossed lengthways and, in this process, also overstretched in areas. This can have the consequence that irregularly running cracks or openings form within the tobacco film. The device is intended to combine the tobacco foil after the longitudinal embossing in an accordion-like manner and to feed it to an inlet funnel for later strand guidance. A separation of the tobacco film is expressly not provided, since individual strips lead to problems at the inlet funnel of the device. In the DE 25 26 850 disclosed device is not suitable for processing individual strips or a bundle of individual strips.

The object of the invention is to provide a device for producing a rod for the tobacco processing industry, a method for producing a rod for the tobacco processing industry and a rod-shaped article for the tobacco processing industry, the device and the method offering the possibility of properties of the rod To change the tobacco processing industry flexible, and the rod-shaped article should be flexible in terms of its properties.

The object is achieved by a device for producing a strand of the tobacco processing industry, comprising a separating device which is set up to separate a flat web into a plurality of strips, the device being developed in that the separating device has a first and one with it Co-operating second roller comprises, wherein the lateral surfaces of the rollers in the axial direction alternately next to each other in the circumferential direction have closed circumferential grooves and elevations and in an active area the elevations of the first roller engage in the grooves of the second roller and the elevations of the second roller engage in the grooves of the first roller , wherein the rollers are designed such that a first width of a first elevation of the first or second roller and a first associated width of a first groove of the second or first roller cooperating with the first elevation is greater or smaller than a second width of a second n elevation of the first or second roller and a second associated width of a second groove of the second or first roller cooperating with the second elevation, and wherein the device further comprises a strand forming unit which is configured to process the strand of tobacco from the plurality of strips To form industry.

The device comprises rollers for severing the flat web, which are designed such that they produce strips of different widths. There is at least a first active pair consisting of a first elevation and a first groove interacting therewith, and a second active pair consisting of a second elevation and a second groove interacting therewith, which, viewed in the axial direction, have widths of different sizes. The active pairs are thus suitable for producing strips of different widths from the flat web. The width of the strips from which the rod of the tobacco processing industry is made gives it different properties. One property that can be changed by changing the width of the stripe is, for example Tensile resistance of the strand and of the tobacco processing industry article made from this strand. Another property that changes depending on the width of the strip is the mechanical hardness, for example printability or flexural rigidity. It is generally the case that wide strips, that is to say a large strip width, lead to low tensile resistance and high hardness. Narrow strips, on the other hand, result in a strand or an article of the tobacco processing industry with a high tensile resistance and a low hardness.

The ratio between the number of active pairs with the first width and the number of active pairs with the larger or smaller second width determines the properties of the strand or article of the tobacco processing industry, especially with regard to tensile resistance and mechanical hardness. Conversely, for example, tensile resistance and mechanical hardness can be set to a desired value by appropriately choosing the aforementioned ratio. This selection can be made, for example, taking into account the properties of the flat track. Possible properties of the flat web that are taken into account in this context are, for example, its strength, flexural rigidity or also its material thickness.

In the tobacco-processing industry strand, there are stripes of different widths. The variation of the ratio of the strips of different widths relative to one another allows a greater variation in the properties of the rod or the article of the tobacco processing industry compared to a situation in which there is a constant strip width in the rod and its properties are only achieved by setting the absolute value of the The width of this strip is changed.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the device is developed in that the rollers of the separating device are designed in such a way that the widths of the elevations of the first or second roller and the associated widths of the grooves interacting with these elevations, viewed in the axial direction and with increasing distance from one end of the respective roller in the direction of an opposite end of the roller, monotonically, in particular in stages, furthermore in particular continuously.

In other words, the width of the active pairs is, for example, monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing along the axial direction of the rollers. There can also be a gradual distribution of the width, wherein the width of the active pairs can be constant in certain areas. Furthermore, it can be provided that the width of the active pairs increases or decreases steadily with the axial direction. This means that the width of the active pairs assumes the local value of a monotonic or even continuous function of the axial distance from one end of the roller.

According to an alternative embodiment it is provided that the rollers of the separating device are designed in such a way that the widths of the elevations of the first or second roller and the associated widths of the grooves cooperating with this elevation are constant in non-overlapping circumferential sections extending in the axial direction, wherein the widths of the elevations and the associated widths of the grooves of a first circumferential section are greater or smaller than the widths of the elevations and the associated widths of the grooves of a second circumferential section.

It is provided, for example, that the widths of the active pairs assume a first value in a first circumferential section and assume a larger or smaller value that deviates therefrom in a second circumferential section. In a further third area adjoining the second section in the axial direction, for example, the widths of the active pairs are again just as large as in the first area. According to such an example, the flat web is divided into wider or narrower strips in the middle and second areas than is the case in the adjacent first and second areas, the edge areas. The reverse configuration is also provided, namely that the flat web is divided into wider strips in the edge areas than is the case in a middle or central area.

The areas are separate areas that do not overlap. The areas can, but are not necessarily, spaced from one another. They can be directly adjacent to one another. The design of the rollers of the separating device in such a way that they have a width of the active pairs which is constant in certain areas has advantages with regard to the manufacture of the rollers. For example, the rollers can be composed of individual segments. These segments can be used both for the production of rollers with a constant width of the active pairs and for the production of rollers which have active pairs with different widths. Referring to the example mentioned above, in which there are active pairs with the same width in the first and third areas, identical roller segments can be used to produce these areas. This simplifies the manufacture of the rolls and allows them to be produced economically.

According to a further embodiment, the device is developed in that a web guiding device arranged upstream of the separating device has at least a first comprises a first deflecting roller axis rotatable first deflecting roller and a second second deflecting roller rotatable about a second deflecting roller axis, which at least in sections define a transport path of the flat web through the web guiding device, the deflecting rollers being mounted in such a way that their deflecting roller axes can be pivoted in such a way that the deflecting roller axes can be pivoted a feed position of the flat web in the active area of the first and second roller can be changed along the axial direction.

As an alternative or in addition, the device can also be developed in such a way that the rollers of the separating device can be displaced together in the axial direction, so that a feed position of the flat web in the active area of the rollers can be changed along the axial direction by moving the rollers.

It is provided in particular that the first and / or the second roller, viewed in the axial direction, is wider than the flat web. The device has, for example, guides which guide the outer edges of the flat web. In other words, the first and / or the second roller are wider in the axial direction than the distance between the guides, viewed in the same direction, which are designed, for example, as sheet metal.

The feed position of the flat web can be changed during the manufacturing process. For example, a control or feedback control is provided. By changing the feed position of the flat web, the portion of the flat web that is divided into narrow or wide strips can be changed. This applies to an embodiment in which, for example, two areas are provided, the flat web being separated into narrow strips in a first area and the flat web being separated into wide strips in the second area. If the two areas meet in the middle of the rollers, i.e. adjoin one another there, the proportion of wide or narrow strips in the totality of the strips produced can be varied by shifting the feed position in the direction of one or the other area. The selection of the feed position can, for example, be fixed for a specific product. The supply position is determined, for example, as a function of the desired product properties, such as, for example, the tensile resistance or the desired strength of the rod-shaped article. It is also possible to change the feed position dynamically during the manufacturing process, for example via the control or regulation already mentioned. For example, it may be of interest to dynamically change the properties of the product during manufacture. This is done, for example, when rod-shaped articles with a different character are to be produced. However, a regulation can also take place which aims at the highest possible quality and properties of the rod-shaped articles. For example, the tensile resistance or the mechanical hardness of the rod-shaped articles can be checked continuously during production. If a deviation is found that exceeds a predetermined limit value, the ratio of the strips of different widths can be changed in order to counteract this effect. The properties of the flat web can also be taken into account when choosing the feed position. In other words, depending, for example, on the mechanical properties of the flat web, for example its material thickness, mechanical hardness, strength or the like, a desired feed position can be specified or the feed position can be changed. This measure can be carried out, for example, with the aim of still providing a strand for the production of rod-shaped articles, the rod-shaped articles having properties that are comparable and, for example, within a predetermined interval.

According to an advantageous development, the device is characterized by a control unit which is set up to receive a value of a product parameter that describes a mechanical or fluidic property of the rod or of an article of the tobacco processing industry made from the rod, the control unit for this purpose is set up to control actuators present in the separating device in such a way that they cause a pivoting movement of the deflection roller axes and / or move the deflection rollers in the axial direction, so that a feed position of the flat web in the effective area of the rollers can be changed so that the feed position according to a predeterminable functional relationship in Can be changed depending on the value of the product parameter.

The product parameters provided are, for example, the tensile resistance of a rod-shaped article produced from the rod for the tobacco processing industry or also its hardness, flexural rigidity or the like. In relation to the strand of the tobacco processing industry, these values are each specific values, considered per unit of length. For example, it is provided that the feed position is changed in such a way that a larger proportion of strips of greater width is produced if the tensile resistance is to be reduced and the hardness is to be increased. Conversely, this means that a control in accordance with such a functional relationship leads to the drawing resistance being increased in that the feed position is changed in such a way that a greater one Proportion of strips of small width is produced, which at the same time reduces the hardness of the article. It is also provided that the product parameters are recorded during the production of the strand, that is to say during the production process, and the feed position is dynamically controlled and / or regulated by means of the control unit in accordance with the predetermined functional context.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the device is further developed in that the separating device is set up to split the flat web into strips along predetermined separating lines, in that the flat web is stretched transversely to a separating plane so much that it tears apart along the separating line and immediately adjacent strips are created.

If the flat web is torn apart, the result is that an open edge is created at the edges of the strips and not a smooth edge, as would be the case, for example, with a cut. An open structure at the edges of the strips may be desirable. It is advantageous, for example, with regard to the capacity of the strips to absorb liquid additives, for example aromatic substances or vapor formers (propylene glycol or glycerine or a mixture of these substances). Furthermore, strips with an open edge have a larger surface, which can also be desirable with regard to the release of flavorings and active substances from the material of the strips into an air stream intended for consumption.

According to a further embodiment, such a device is developed in that the elevations and the grooves are connected to one another by radially extending flanks and the parting plane runs between a first flank of the first roller and a second flank of the second roller, the separating device for separating the flat web is set up with a predetermined material thickness, wherein there is an axial gap between the first and the second flank, which is one to three times a value of a predetermined material thickness of the flat web.

Such a dimensioning of the separating device has proven to be advantageous in practice. It was possible to achieve a complete separation of the individual strips with an open edge structure at the same time.

The flat web is, for example, a flat web made of reconstituted tobacco material. This can be produced either by the slurry process or by a paper process. The flat web can also be a flat web made of paper or cardboard or a mixture of paper and cardboard. The flat web can also be a film, for example a PLA film or an aluminum film.

The object is also achieved by a method for producing a strand of the tobacco processing industry, this method being developed in that a flat web is separated into a plurality of strips with a separating device, the separating device comprising a first and a second roller and jacket surfaces of the rollers in the axial direction alternately next to one another in the circumferential direction have closed circumferential grooves and elevations, the rollers interacting during the separation of the flat web by the elevations of the first roller in the grooves of the second roller and the elevations of the second roller in the grooves in an effective area engage the first roller, wherein the rollers are designed such that a first width of a first elevation of the first or second roller and a first associated width of a first groove of the second or first roller cooperating with the first elevation is greater or smaller than a z wide width of a second elevation of the first or second roller and a second associated width of a second groove of the second or first roller cooperating with the second elevation, so that the flat web is separated into the plurality of strips with the separating device, of which at least two strips are one have different widths, and wherein the strand of the tobacco processing industry is formed with a strand forming unit from the plurality of strips.

The same or similar advantages apply to the device for producing a rod of the tobacco processing industry as have already been mentioned with regard to the device for producing the rod of the tobacco processing industry.

According to a further embodiment, the method is further developed in that the flat web, viewed in the axial direction and with increasing distance from one end of the roller in the direction of an opposite end of the roller, is divided into strips, the width of which is monotonous, in particular in steps, furthermore in particular continuously, increases.

According to an alternative embodiment, the method is further developed in that the flat web is separated into strips, the width of which in a first section is greater or smaller than the width of the strips in a second section, the width of the strips in the sections being constant and the first and the second section are not overlapping.

Another advantageous embodiment of the method is characterized in that the flat web is introduced into the active area of the cutting rollers at a feed position that can be changed along the axial direction.

This method is further developed in particular in that a value is determined which describes a mechanical or fluidic property of the strand of the tobacco processing industry, the feed position of the flat web being changed according to a predeterminable functional relationship as a function of the determined value.

Finally, according to a further embodiment, it is provided that the flat web is divided into strips along predetermined dividing lines by stretching the flat web transversely to a dividing plane so much that it tears apart along the dividing line and immediately adjacent strips are created.

The object is also achieved by a rod-shaped article of the tobacco processing industry, which is made from a strand of the tobacco processing industry, which was produced by a method according to one or more of the aforementioned embodiments.

Rod-shaped articles of high quality can advantageously be produced, since according to the production method there is the possibility of adapting the tensile resistance and the hardness of the rod-shaped article very precisely, optimizing the material used for the flat web and also optimizing the production process with regard to this mechanical or fluidic To regulate or also to control properties of the rod-shaped article in particular with feedback.

Further features of the invention will become apparent from the description of embodiments according to the invention together with the claims and the accompanying drawings. Embodiments according to the invention can fulfill individual features or a combination of several features.

• 1 eine Vorrichtung zum Herstellen eines Strangs der Tabak verarbeitenden Industrie in schematisch vereinfachter Darstellung,
• 2 eine schematisch vereinfachte Detailansicht der Walzen einer Trennvorrichtung der Vorrichtung zum Herstellen eines Strangs, dargestellt in einem Wirkbereich, in dem die beiden Walzen ineinander greifen, dargestellt in einer Schnittebene, in der die Achsen der Walzen liegen,
• 3 eine schematisch vereinfachte Darstellung einer Trennvorrichtung einer Vorrichtung zum Herstellen eines Strangs,
• 4a) - c) jeweils einen schematisch vereinfachten Querschnitt durch einen aus einem Strang der Tabak verarbeitenden Industrie hergestellten Artikel der Tabak verarbeitenden Industrie,
• 5 eine schematisch vereinfachte Detailansicht eines Querschnitts durch zwei Walzen der Trennvorrichtung, welche in einem Wirkbereich ineinandergreifen,
• 6 eine weitere Vorrichtung zum Herstellen eines Strangs in schematisch vereinfachter Seitenansicht,
• 7 eine solche Vorrichtung in schematisch vereinfachter Draufsicht,
• 8 eine weitere Vorrichtung zum Herstellen eines Strangs der Tabak verarbeitenden Industrie in schematisch vereinfachter Seitenansicht und
• 9 eine schematisch vereinfachte Detail-Seitenansicht einer Vorrichtung zum Herstellen eines Strangs der Tabak verarbeitenden Industrie.

The invention is described below without restricting the general inventive concept on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings, with express reference being made to the drawings with regard to all inventive details not explained in more detail in the text. Show it:

• 1 a device for producing a strand of the tobacco processing industry in a schematically simplified representation,
• 2 a schematically simplified detailed view of the rollers of a separating device of the device for producing a strand, shown in an active area in which the two rollers interlock, shown in a sectional plane in which the axes of the rollers lie,
• 3rd a schematically simplified representation of a separating device of a device for producing a strand,
• 4a) - c ) each a schematically simplified cross section through an article of the tobacco processing industry made from a strand of the tobacco processing industry,
• 5 a schematically simplified detailed view of a cross section through two rollers of the separating device, which mesh in an active area,
• 6th a further device for producing a strand in a schematically simplified side view,
• 7th such a device in a schematically simplified plan view,
• 8th a further device for producing a strand of the tobacco processing industry in a schematically simplified side view and
• 9 a schematically simplified detailed side view of a device for producing a strand of the tobacco processing industry.

In the context of the invention, features that are identified with “in particular” or “preferably” are to be understood as optional features.

In the drawings, the same or similar elements and / or parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so that they are not introduced again in each case.

1 shows an apparatus 2 for making a strand 4th the tobacco processing industry. The strand 4th is for example a strand of reconstituted tobacco material, of a film, for example a PLA film, of paper or cardboard or a mixture of paper and cardboard. It can be on the strand 4th also act around a strand of a metal foil or the like. Generally it is a strand 4th coming out of a flat track 6th is made. The material of the strand 4th So is in the form of a flat track 6th provided. The flat track is accordingly 6th for example a reconstituted tobacco material, which can also be produced, for example, by the paper process or by the slurry process. The flat track 6th can furthermore be a film, for example a PLA film, a metal film, a paper web, a cardboard web or a web made of a mixture of the aforementioned materials, in particular a mixture of paper and cardboard.

The flat track 6th is on a bobbin 8th provided and unrolled by this. For unrolling the flat web 6th from the bobbin 8th is an unwinding unit 10 intended. There every bobbin 8th only a finite length of a rolled flat sheet 6th can accommodate, a reel change must be carried out at some point. When changing from a bobbin 8th to the next bobbin 8th must also have a first flat track 6th with a subsequent second flat sheet to be processed 6th connected so that an uninterrupted production process is possible. For this purpose, the unwinding unit 10 be designed as a reel changer.

A suitable reel changer with which a first with a second flat track 6th can be connected so that a continuous production process is possible, for example from the EP 2 969 871 B1 , of the WO 2016/059022 A1 , from the not pre-published DE 10 2019 117 180 or from the also not previously published DE 10 2019 102 297 known. The content of the aforementioned documents is incorporated into the present description by reference.

Will the EP 2 969 871 B1 known device, complementary cuts are first made with a cutting device on the flat webs unwound from a first and a second reel 6th carried out. With a dispensing device, for example, water is applied to at least one of the two flat tracks 6th released and with a combining device, force is applied to the flat tracks 6th applied to produce a bonded sheet.

Will the WO 2016/059022 A1 known device for connecting the flat tracks 6th is used, the first and second flat tracks are used with one transport unit 6th led to a splice point. The first and the second flat track 6th are guided parallel to one another in an overlapping area. The two flat webs are made with a printing unit 6th Connected to each other at the splice to form a continuous flat web 6th provide.

Will the from the not pre-published DE 10 2019 117 180 known device for connecting the two flat tracks 6th is used, with a connecting device which comprises at least one movably mounted pressure means and an abutment, the two flat tracks arranged one above the other 6th pressed together. To produce a flat track 6th connecting the connecting area, a knurled surface area is created by knurling, which is diagonal to the direction of movement of the flat web 6th extends.

A weakening device is also provided, which is located upstream of the connecting area to be produced between the two flat webs 6th in an end section of the first flat track 6th and in a section upstream of the connecting area in the second flat path 6th creates a weakened area. This weakening is, for example, transverse to the direction of movement of the flat web 6th oriented notch, knurling, perforation, constriction or a correspondingly oriented incision.

Will the from the not pre-published DE 10 2019 102 297 known device for connecting the two flat tracks 6th used, these are fed to a connection station. In the connecting station there is a cutting device for cutting a free trailing end of the first flat web 6th and a free leading end of the second flat web 6th and a connecting device for connecting the two free ends. The connecting station is set up to produce an overlap area which provides the same with at least one opening over the width of the endless flat web produced in this way.

The unwinding unit 10 can comprise a reel changer which is designed as it is described in one or more of the aforementioned publications. Further details on the design of the unwinding unit 10 are also explained in the context of further exemplary embodiments which are mentioned further below in the text. The aspects mentioned there can also be the subject matter of the present exemplary embodiment.

The flat track 6th becomes one of the device 2 included separator 12th fed. The separator 12th is set up for this, the flat track 6th into a variety of strips 14th to separate. The flat track 6th becomes the separator 12th in the direction of transport TR and in a stripe plane E. fed. The Stripes 14th leave the separator 12th also in the direction of transport TR and in this stripe plane E. . They are at least partially within the stripe plane E. arranged side by side.

This is in 1 through a separate detailed view, the one above the stripe level E. is shown, indicated. The strips arranged next to one another are shown in a sectional plan view 14th shown. This detailed representation is for clarification in comparison to the rest of the representation of 1 Shown tilted by 90 °.

The strips arranged side by side 14th have in the stripe plane E. and perpendicular to the direction of transport TR different widths. The separator 12th is designed, for example, so that the first strip 141 with a first stripe width SB1 and second stripe 142 with a second stripe width SB2 getting produced. The exemplary embodiment shown is merely an example SB1 greater than SB2 .

The ones in strips 14th split flat track 6th when this is the separator 12th in the direction of transport TR has left, for example on transport rollers 16 guided. This is how the multitude of strips arrives 14th to an inlet and bundling funnel 18th a strand forming unit 20th . The inlet and bundling funnel 18th is often referred to as a stuffing nozzle on conventional machines. In the strand forming unit 20th is made from the multitude of strips 14th the strand already mentioned 4th educated. The string formation takes place, for example, in a format channel 22nd , which is only indicated schematically.

After the strand formation, the strand can 4th be fed to further processing steps. For example, it can be divided into individual rod-shaped segments 24 cut to the desired length. These rod-shaped segments 24 can use further processing steps for the production of rod-shaped articles 88 are fed to the tobacco processing industry. It can be with the segments 24 but also the ready-to-use items 88 trade in the tobacco processing industry.

The separator 12th includes a first roller 26th and a second roller 28 that intermesh and work together in an effective area. The two reels 26th , 28 are not in direct mechanical contact with one another, i.e. do not touch one another directly. The first roller 26th rotates around a first axis 27 , the second roller 28 rotates around a second axis 29 . The separator 12th separates the flat track 6th along predetermined dividing lines into the individual strips 14th on. It is important in this context that the flat track 6th from the separator 12th not in individual strips 14th cut, as it would be done, for example, with the help of two blades of a pair of scissors sliding against each other. On the contrary, the flat track 6th is divided into individual strips 14th separated by the flat track 6th across the respective between two adjacent strips 14th lying dividing line is stretched transversely to a dividing plane so much that it tears apart along this dividing line running within the dividing plane and the immediately adjacent strips 14th arise.

This process is explained below using 2 explained in more detail. In 2 is a schematic and simplified detailed view of the two rollers 26th , 28 the separator 12th shown. The illustration of 2 runs in a cutting plane in which the axes 27 , 29 of the rollers 26th , 28 lie. The first roller 26th comprises a first lateral surface 30th and the second roller 28 comprises a second lateral surface 32 . The outer surfaces 30th , 32 of the rollers 26th , 28 point in an axial direction A. that are parallel to the first and second axes 27 , 29 runs, alternately closed circumferential grooves in the circumferential direction 34 and surveys 36 on. For the sake of clarity, only some of the grooves are shown 34 and surveys 36 provided with reference numerals. The elevations take effect in an effective area 36 the first roller 26th in the grooves 34 the second roller 28 and the surveys 36 the second roller 28 grip into the grooves 34 the first roller 26th . Will the flat track 6th in the effective area between the two rollers 26th , 28 introduced, it is locally and slightly transversely to a parting plane T so much overstretched that the flat track 6th along one in the parting plane T and in the direction of transport TR running dividing line tears apart. The location of the parting line T is in 2 represented by a dotted line. The dividing line, along the adjacent strip 14th are separated from each other, runs in the parting plane T , perpendicular to the plane of the paper shown in 2 . The overstretching of the flat track 6th , as a result of which the flat track 6th into individual strips 14th tears apart, finds, contemplates in the in 2 level shown, approximately within the parting plane T instead of. The the flat track 6th tearing force acts between the adjacent edges of the elevations 36 and across the gap between the elevations. The force vector is therefore almost within the parting plane T , however, is slightly inclined in relation to this and in this sense transverse to the parting plane T oriented.

The surveys 36 of the rollers 26th , 28 each include a top 38 which is part of the respective lateral surface 30th , 32 the associated roller 26th , 28 is. The grooves 34 each include a floor 40 , which is also part of the outer surface 30th , 32 the associated roller 26th , 28 is. The surveys 36 and the grooves 34 , more precisely the top 38 the survey 36 and the floor 40 the adjacent groove 34 , are each through flanks 42 , 44 connected with each other. Depending on whether the grooves 34 or the surveys 36 the first or the second roller 26th , 28 are to be assigned, these flanks should be the first flanks 42 provided it is the first roller 26th acts, and as the second flank 44 provided it is the second roller 28 acts, are designated. The Flanks 42 , 44 run radially, that is, in a radial direction R. which is perpendicular to the axial direction A. stands. The radial direction R. runs in the direction of a radius of the respective roller 26th , 28 . The parting line T along which the flat track 6th in stripes 14th is separated, runs between the first flanks 42 the first roller 26th and the second flank 44 the second roller 28 .

The surveys 36 of the rollers 26th , 28 can also in at least a portion of their outer end face, on the in 2 the Stripes 14th rest, be uneven. For example, at least some of the elevations are in the end faces 36 encircling grooves or recesses which, viewed in cross section, can be, for example, V-shaped or U-shaped. Such a configuration can reduce the tendency of the stripes 14th to adhere to the end faces of the elevations, are significantly reduced. The main reason for this is that the stripes 14th only come into contact with the end faces in a partial area, i.e. the contact surface is significantly reduced, which increases the tendency of the stripes 14th on the front sides of the elevations 36 to adhere is significantly reduced. Further details are from the not pre-published DE 10 2018 106 826 known, the disclosure of which is fully incorporated into the present description by reference.

The separator 12th is for cutting a flat track 6th set up with a predetermined material thickness. Between the flanks 42 , 44 opposite rollers 26th , 28 , i.e. between the first flank 42 and the second flank 44 , is an axial gap 46 provided which, for example, is one to three times the value of a material thickness of the flat web 6th amounts to. One in radial direction R. of the rollers 26th , 28 measured distance D. between the top 38 of the surveys 36 the first roller 26th and the top 38 of the surveys 36 the second roller 28 is, for example, three to ten times the value of the material thickness of the flat web 6th .

The local overstretching of the flat track 6th leads to that in the grooves 34 of the rollers 26th , 28 the individual stripes 14th , of which, for the sake of clarity, again only a few are provided with reference symbols, are present separately from one another. The Stripes 14th point at their edges 48 an open structure, as they are not separated by a cut, but rather torn apart by overstretching them in a defined manner.

The overstretching of the flat track 6th causes the streaks 14th which on the tops 38 of the surveys 36 rest for a short section from the stripe plane E. be moved out. The flat track 6th becomes the separator 12th in the stripe plane E. fed. The separate strips 14th leave the separator 12th in the stripe plane E. . Only in the effective area and in a short section downstream of the effective area does a fraction of the stripes appear 14th that is approximately half of the strip 14th corresponds, temporarily outside the stripe plane as a result of the separation process E. guided.

The Stripes 14th have a stripe width SB on, which in turn only applies to a single strip for the sake of clarity 14th is shown. In the in 2 section shown all have stripes 14th an equal stripe width SB on. The device 2 is for making strips 14th furnished with different stripe widths. In connection with 1 are already the first stripes 141 who have a first stripe width SB1 have, and second stripes 142 that is a second strip width SB2 have been mentioned. In the case of 2 mentioned stripe width SB the stripe 14th it is, for example, the first strip width SB1 or by the second stripe width SB2 . In other words, in 2 the interaction of the rollers 26th , 28 shown in an area or zone in which the strip 14th with the same stripe width SB getting produced.

3rd shows, in a schematically simplified representation, a plan view of the separating device 12th the device 2 for making a strand 4th . The flat track 6th becomes the separator 12th in the direction of transport TR and in the stripe plane E. fed. The separator 12th includes the rollers, not shown 26th , 28 exemplifying three areas or zones Z1 , Z2 , Z3 include. Using the separator 12th become individual stripes 14th produced, which are also shown simplified and schematically in a plan view. The reels 26th , 28 are designed in such a way that in the individual zones Z1 , Z2 , Z3 each strip 14th with the same stripe width SB getting produced. Be specific in the first zone Z1 first stripes 141 with a stripe width B1 , in the second zone Z2 second strip 142 with a second stripe width B2 and in the third zone Z3 third stripe 143 with a third stripe width B3 produced. Take the strip width as an example SB the one in the individual zones Z1 , Z2 , Z3 manufactured strips 14th from the first zone Z1 to the third zone Z3 towards constant to; so it applies SB1 smaller SB2 smaller SB3 .

In 3rd is shown a situation in which the flat track 6th the separator 12th is fed at a first feed position. The device 2 for making the strand 4th The tobacco processing industry, for example, includes an upstream separator 12th arranged and in 3rd web guiding device not shown 90 (see for example 9 ), with which the feed position of the Flat track 6th across the direction of transport TR can be changed. This is in 3rd indicated schematically with a double arrow. So that the feed position of the flat web 6th can be changed is the width of the flat track 6th across the direction of transport TR less than the width of the rollers 26th , 28 in this direction.

Is using this web guiding device 90 the feeding position of the flat web 6th towards the first zone Z1 method, the plurality of the separating device 12th leaving strip 14th a higher proportion of first stripes 141 with the first strip width SB1 . In other words, the proportion of narrow strips or strips with a small width in relation to the total number of strips increases 14th . The opposite effect occurs when using the web guiding device 90 the feeding position of the flat web 6th towards the third zone Z3 is proceeded. The variety of strips made 14th will now have a higher proportion of third stripes 143 with the larger third stripe width SB3 include.

The size distribution of the strips can be changed by changing the feed position 14th , more precisely the relative frequency of the stripe widths SB , change. Optionally, in the total number of strips 14th more or less stripes 14th with a large stripe width, for example third stripes 143 with the third stripe width SB3 , to be available. The same applies in exactly the opposite way to the number of strips 14th with a narrow strip width, for example first strips 141 with the first strip width SB1 . By such a variation in the distribution of the stripe widths SB the distribution of the stripe widths in the strand also changes 4th who made the strip 14th will be produced. Of course, this also applies to those from the strand 4th manufactured articles 88 the tobacco processing industry.

In the 4a) to 4c ) is a schematic and simplified cross-section through various of the strips 14th manufactured strands 4th shown in the tobacco processing industry. A cross section through one of the strand 4th manufactured articles 88 the tobacco processing industry paints an identical picture. Exemplarily shows 4a) one strand 4th , which has a relatively high proportion of first stripes 141 with the small first strip width SB1 includes. In 4b) a cross-section through an article is shown which almost exclusively has second strips 142 with the second stripe width SB2 includes. 4c ) shows an article that has a very high proportion of third stripes 143 with the largest third stripe width SB3 , a small percentage of second stripes 142 and no first stripes 141 includes. The in 4a) The item shown has the lowest mechanical strength or flexural rigidity and the highest tensile resistance. The in 4c ) The item shown has the highest strength or flexural rigidity and the lowest tensile resistance. By varying the distribution of the strip width SB within the article 88 The tobacco processing industry can determine the mechanical and fluidic properties of the article 88 change. An exemplary mechanical property is the strength or flexural rigidity of the article 88 , an exemplary fluidic property is the draft resistance.

5 shows in a schematically simplified detailed view a cross section through the first and the second roller 26th , 28 the separator 12th . The reels 26th , 28 interlock in an effective range. The in 5 the roller shown above around the first roller 26th and around the second roller in the case of the roller shown below 28 . The two reels 26th , 28 have three zones as an example Z1 , Z2 , Z3 on. In the first zone Z1 includes the first roller 26th first surveys 361 in the axial direction A. a first width B1 exhibit. These first surveys 361 the first roller 26th , of which only a few are provided with reference symbols for the sake of clarity, engage in first grooves 341 the second roller 28 . The first surveys 361 work with the first grooves 341 together. The first grooves 341 also have one in the axial direction A. considers the associated first width BZ1 on. With that the first surveys 361 in the first grooves 341 can intervene is the associated first width BZ1 of the first grooves 341 slightly larger than the first width B1 of the first surveys 361 . Just like the first roller 26th also has the second roller 28 in the first zone Z1 in 5 first elevations not provided with reference symbols for reasons of clarity 361 on that with first grooves 341 the second roller 28 work together. What has been said above applies to the widths of these elevations and grooves. Becomes a flat track 6th the in 5 supplied device shown, so is in the effective range of the two rollers 26th , 28 in the first zone Z1 the flat track 6th in strips of a first strip width SB1 separated.

In the second zone Z2 assigns the first roller 26th second surveys 362 on that in the axial direction A. consider a second latitude B2 exhibit. The second surveys 362 the first roller 26th act with second grooves 342 together by intervening in them. A second associated width BZ2 the second grooves 342 is again slightly larger than the second width B2 of the second surveys 362 . The second roller too 28 points in 5 for the sake of clarity, not provided with reference numerals on second elevations, which in second grooves of the first roller 26th intervention. With regard to the second width B2 and the corresponding second width BZ2 the above applies. In the second zone Z2 become out of the flat track 6th Stripes 14th with a second stripe width SB2 produced. This is exemplary second stripe width SB2 larger than the first strip width SB1 the one in the first zone Z1 manufactured strips 14th .

The first and second rollers 26th , 28 point in a third zone Z3 third surveys 363 on that with third grooves 343 the other roller 28 , 26th work together. The third surveys 363 have a third width B3 that with the third surveys 363 cooperating third grooves 343 have an associated third width BZ3 . In the third zone Z3 become out of the flat track 6th Stripes 14th with a third stripe width SB3 produced.

The first strip width SB1 is in a first approximation between the first width B1 and the associated first width BZ1 lie. In practice, the values of these three widths are very close to one another. The same also applies to the second and third strip widths SB2 , SB3 in terms of the second and third width B2 , B3 and the associated second and third width BZ2 , BZ3 . For dimensioning the respective widths B1 , B2 , B3 of the surveys 361 , 362 , 363 in relation to the respective corresponding widths BZ1 , BZ2 , BZ3 the one with the surveys 361 , 362 , 363 cooperating grooves 341 , 342 , 343 depending on the material thickness of the flat sheet 6th , this applies in connection with 2 Said.

The reels 26th , 28 the separator 12th are designed so that the widths B1 , B2 , B3 of the surveys 36 , 361 , 362 , 363 viewed in the axial direction with increasing distance from one end of the rollers 26th , 28 increase or decrease monotonously. The question of whether the latitudes B1 , B2 , B3 and of course also the corresponding widths BZ1 , BZ2 , BZ3 increase or decrease is just a question of which direction, i.e. whether from left to right or from right to left in the axial direction A. viewing takes place. The in 5 shown embodiment take the widths B1 , B2 , B3 and the corresponding widths BZ1 , BZ2 , BZ3 monotonously and gradually from left to right.

Further examples are provided, which are not shown, in which the widths B1 , B2 , B3 and the corresponding widths BZ1 , BZ2 , BZ3 local values of any function of the distance to one end of the rollers 26th , 28 accept. This function can be chosen freely as long as it is not constant in the observed interval. Polynomials, exponential functions, trigonometric functions or the like are conceivable. In particular, it is provided that for such a function on the observed interval the condition is met that it increases or decreases monotonically, in particular continuously. It is also provided that the function assumes a minimum or a maximum on the observed interval.

The in 5 The embodiment shown are the widths B1 , B2 , B3 of the surveys 361 , 362 , 363 the first or second roller 26th , 28 and the corresponding widths BZ1 , BZ2 , BZ3 the one with the surveys 361 , 362 , 363 cooperating grooves 341 , 342 , 343 within the zones Z1 , Z2 , Z3 , that is, in non-overlapping circumferential sections extending in the axial direction, constant. The latitudes B1 , B2 , B3 of the surveys 361 , 362 , 363 and the corresponding widths BZ1 , BZ2 , BZ3 of the grooves 341 , 342 , 343 take from the first zone Z1 to the third zone Z3 to.

It is also provided that, for example, the widths in the second zone Z2 are greater than the widths in the first zone Z1 and the latitudes in the third zone Z3 . It is also possible that the latitudes in the first zone Z1 are the same as the widths in the third zone Z3 . In the latter case there would be stripes 14th in just two different strip widths SB1 , SB2 produced.

6th shows another device 2 for making a strand 4th in a schematically simplified side view. This device 2 has a modular structure, it includes an unwinding unit 10 a bobbin preparation module, a downstream width cutting module 60 , as a separator 12th a strip cutter module, one downstream of the cutter 12th downstream transfer module 50 as well as a strand forming unit 20th a strand making module. The modules are arranged, for example, directly adjacent to one another.

That as an unwinding unit 10 The bobbin provision module used for this purpose comprises at least one first receiving mandrel 52 and a second mandrel 54 to accommodate one bobbin each 8th . On the bobbin 8th is the flat track 6th stored, it is handled by this. This process can be assisted by using one or both mandrels 52 , 54 or the bobbin arranged on it 8th are drivable. The flat track 6th is deflected within the bobbin provision module via several deflection rollers, which are not provided with reference symbols. To the web tension of the flat web 6th Keeping it at a desired level is a dancer 56 provided, which is for example a pulley attached to a lever.

On a single bobbin 8th can only have a finite length of the flat path 6th be saved. For this reason it is necessary from time to time to change the reel. A first possibility for such a bobbin change is to use the complete device 2 to stop, i.e. to temporarily stop production. A free end of a first flat path, which comes to an end, is combined with a second flat path, which is called to be processed next. The two flat webs can be connected to one another manually, using moisture, pressure and heat, alone or in combination, to connect. Then the device 2 started again so that the flat track stored on the second reel is now processed.

A second way to change the one on the bobbin 8th existing flat track 6th consists of an automatic reel change. For this purpose, the first flat web, which is stored on the first reel, is almost completely processed. At the same time the second reel is opened, the second flat web present on this second reel is thus partially unrolled. Subsequently, the free end of the first flat web no longer present on the first reel and the beginning of the second flat web present on the second reel are processed, in particular cut, superposed and connected, as is the case for example from the EP 2 969 871 B1 , from the WO 2016/059022 A1 , from the not pre-published DE 10 2019 117 180 or from the also not previously published DE 10 2019 102 297 is known. In order to carry out such an automated reel change, an in 6th Connection module (not shown) between the unwinding unit 10 acting bobbin provision module and as a separating device 12th acting strip cutting module in the device 2 to get integrated. In such a known connection module taken in and of itself, the flat track 6th cached. For this purpose, for example, a hose reservoir is used as a buffer for the flat track 6th available.

A bobbin 8th on which the flat track 6th is provided, has a weight of approx. 40 kg. To these units for an operator of the device 2 To make it easier to use, an in 6th robot, not shown, with a suitable gripping device. With this the bobbin 8th from a storage surface, for example a pallet or the like, received and on the receiving mandrel 52 , 54 to be placed. Depending on what material the flat track 6th it can also be provided, for example, to allow the flat web to dry out 6th before processing to avoid the storage surface of the reels 8th and also the unwinding unit 10 are made hermetically sealed. The unwinding unit is also provided 10 and / or the storage area or the storage space for the reels 8th to air-condition.

Furthermore, for example, is a sensor unit 58 provided with which the unwound flat track 6th can be examined with regard to their quality. The sensor unit 58 is only an example in the unwinding unit 10 intended. You can also at another suitable location upstream of the position at which the flat track 6th into individual strips 14th is separated, be arranged. The sensor unit 58 is for example an optical sensor unit with which the flat track 6th is examined for defects. This takes place, for example, in a transmitted light method. It becomes the intensity of the flat path 6th penetrating light, for example with the help of a camera, detected. So it is possible to find imperfections in the flat track 6th to detect. In addition, the measured transmission can be used to determine a material thickness of the flat web 6th getting closed.

Downstream of the unwinding unit 10 is in the in 6th The embodiment shown also has a width cutting device 60 available. With the help of this width cutter 60 , which will be described in more detail at a later point in time, can be a width of the flat web 6th , viewed in the stripe plane E. , to be changed. By changing the width of the flat track 6th in the stripe plane E. the mass supplied to the strand formation can be varied. In this way it is possible, for example with a varying material thickness of the flat web 6th a constant mass per unit length in the strand produced 4th and thus also in the individual rod-shaped articles 88 to ensure. For this purpose, provision is made in particular for the width cutting device 60 with the sensor unit 58 to pair. Detects the sensor unit, for example 58 a section of the flat track 6th , which has a particularly high material thickness, this would be with a constant width of the flat web 6th to a higher mass per unit length in the strand produced later 4th to lead. To avoid this, the width cutting device can adjust the width of the flat web 6th reduce so that the mass of the material of the flat track 6th is kept constant per unit length in the strand produced later. This optional coupling between the sensor unit 58 and width cutter 60 can have a steadily constant mass in the off the strand 4th produced rod-shaped articles can be ensured.

To the flat track 6th To cut to the desired width, the width cutting device comprises, for example, a circular knife 62 . With the help of such a circular knife 62 can the flat track 6th cut on one or both sides and brought to the desired width. A width cut is also advantageous if the on the bobbin 8th existing flat track 6th is too wide for the later processing steps. It is also, for example, a separate take-off roller for the severed section of the flat web 6th intended. The severed section of the flat track 6th can for example in a separate container such as a shot box or the like be caught. It can be disposed of or sent for further processing.

The remaining (cut) flat track 6th enters the separator further downstream 12th one that is, for example, a strip cutting module. The separator 12th includes the first and second rollers 26th , 28 which are configured, for example, as explained in connection with the figures described above. So that the flat track 6th exactly at the desired feed position to the pair of rollers 26th , 28 can be fed, for example, a web edge control and / or regulation is provided. Such a web edge control and / or regulation includes, for example, a web edge camera with which the position of one or both side edges of the flat web 6th is detected. Such a web edge detection device 64 is for example at the entrance of the separator 12th intended. It detects the edge of the flat web 6th for example with the help of an optical sensor such as a camera or the like with an accuracy of approx. 1/100 mm to 5/100 mm. The web edge detection device 64 can be trained on the web edge control and / or regulation, in that this is set up to use suitable and in 6th Deflection rollers, not shown, at the entrance of the separating device 12th to control and / or regulate that the web edge of the flat web 6th lies within a specified tolerance range. For this purpose, two deflection rollers are provided, for example, which are adjustable or tiltable and are coupled to one another with the aid of a four-bar linkage, for example. It is thus possible to actively hold the position of the web edge at a desired target position.

Downstream of the separator 12th the transfer module is located 50 The multitude of individual stripes 14th into which the flat track 6th was separated, receives. The transfer module 50 promotes the individual stripes 14th to the strand forming unit 20th . For this purpose is at the entrance of the transfer module 50 a pair of pulling rollers 66 intended. With the help of the pair of pulling rollers 66 becomes the multitude of stripes 14th from the pair of rollers 26th , 28 drawn. For example, the upper draw roller is the pair of draw rollers 66 can be swiveled or folded to facilitate the threading process, for example when the device is started up 2 to facilitate. Downstream of the transfer module 50 is the strand forming unit 20th , in which in the format channel 22nd , for example with the help of a format tape, the strand 4th is shaped. It is provided, for example, that a speed of the format tape and a transport speed of the pair of draw rollers 66 are parameterized to each other in order to generate an optimal strip voltage. The speed of the format tape can either be greater or less than the transport speed of the pair of draw rollers 66 to get voted.

Between the pair of draw rollers 66 and the format channel 22nd , at its entrance a stuffing nozzle 68 is available which function according to the in 1 shown inlet funnel 18th can also be a strip tensioning device 70 be provided. The strip tensioning device 70 comprises, for example, two deflecting rollers arranged slightly offset from one another, with which the plurality of strips 14th is slightly deflected from the transport level. For example, one of these deflection rollers has a sensor that detects a force transverse to an axis of rotation of the deflection rollers, from which the tension of the strips 14th can be determined. Alternatively and / or additionally, it can be observed with the aid of an optical sensor whether the stripes 14th sag as a result of gravity. Also this way it is possible to adjust the tension of the strips 14th to be detected and by adjusting the pulleys accordingly within the strip tensioning device 70 readjust if necessary. It is of course also possible to adjust the tension of the strips 14th by adjusting the speed of the format tape within the format channel accordingly 22nd or by adjusting the transport speed of the pair of draw rollers 66 adapt. To regulate the tension of the strips 14th for example via the speed of the format tape or the transport speed of the pair of draw rollers 66 can be done, for example, using the strip tensioning device 70 is measured, a control and / or regulating device 76 be provided.

Instead of or in addition to voltage regulation of the strips 14th within the transfer module 50 can one (in 6th not shown) static support for guiding the strips 14th be provided. Due to this static support, the strips 14th when they hit the pair of rollers 26th , 28 in which the flat track 6th into the individual strips 14th is separated, abandoned, led. The static support runs from the rollers 26th , 28 to the pair of draw rollers 66 and / or between the pair of draw rollers 66 further to the darning nozzle 68 .

It is provided in particular that such a static support extends in the direction of transport TR conically tapered, in other words the transport path of the strips conically narrowed in the transport plane. It is provided in particular that the static support between the rollers 26th , 28 and the pair of draw rollers 66 has a constant width, so it does not taper. Downstream of the pair of pulling rollers 66 the tapers for the stripes 14th space available on the static support. The Stripes 14th be in the direction of the stuffing nozzle 68 bundled. For this purpose, for example Side walls are provided which can in particular be adjustable. For example, the side walls are designed as magnetic strips. The width of the static support in the area in which it is not tapered can match the width of the flat track 6th and thus also to the total width (sum) of the large number of the flat track 6th manufactured strips 14th be adjusted. By making the strip 14th The available space is limited, the strips touch 14th mutually and promote each other in the direction of transport.

In particular, it is provided that the static support is, for example, a planar static support, which is made from a metal, for example. It can also be provided that the static support is provided with a coating that reduces the coefficient of friction of the strips 14th reduced on the material of the static pad. Such a friction-reducing coating is, for example, a ceramic coating or a ceramic insert embedded in the surface of the static support.

Furthermore, it is particularly provided that after the pair of pulling rollers 66 part of the strip 14th from the rest of the association of the funded strips 14th is singled out. These scrap strips 72 are for example in a shot box 74 caught.

Downstream of the pair of pulling rollers 66 or also downstream of the strip tensioning device 70 is also, for example, a shaping geometry 78 intended. Using this forming geometry 78 can the strips 14th in a desired geometry, for example star-shaped, in concentric rings or the like, out and the stuffing nozzle 68 are fed. The forming geometry 78 sits just in front of the stuffing nozzle, for example 68 . The multitude of stripes 14th includes strips of different widths. This can be done with the shaping geometry 78 must be taken into account. For example, it can be provided that strips of greater width are provided in the middle of the strand by placing them in the center of the stuffing nozzle 68 are fed. The Stripes 14th smaller widths are in this example in the periphery of the stuffing nozzle 68 fed.

In the strand forming unit 20th become the stripes 14th bundled. To do this, they are first of all the stuffing nozzle 68 and then in the format channel 22nd shaped and wrapped, for example, with a wrapping paper. The format area can be designed, for example, as a round format channel. A format belt, for example, which guides a paper web, runs in this channel. The bundled strips 14th are placed on this paper web and the paper web is then closed by gluing it lengthwise, for example.

The finished strand 4th can then use a strand measuring device 80 are fed. This has, for example, a central round through opening through which the strand 4th is passed through. It is in the strand measuring device 80 for example, the density, the roundness, the surface texture and the like determined. Also, the strand can 4th be examined for imperfections. Such a strand measuring device 80 is known for example under the trade name "EYEPORT".

7th shows them off 6th known device 2 in a schematically simplified plan view. Components that correspond to one another are provided with the same reference symbols.

In 8th is another device 2 for making a strand 4th of the tobacco processing industry shown in a schematically simplified side view. The device 2 comprises an unwinding unit 10 related to 6th has already been described. Deviating from the in 6th mentioned unwinding unit 10 indicates the in 8th shown unwinding unit 10 for example no sensor unit 58 on. The flat track 6th is downstream to the separator 12th passed and put into a variety of strips 14th separated. The strips come downstream 14th on a static support 82 and via this into the transfer module 50 . In an exemplary, very simple embodiment, this comprises only one pair of draw rollers 66 . On the transport route between the rollers 26th , 28 the separator 12th and the pair of draw rollers 66 has the static support 82 a constant width, so does not taper. Downstream of the pair of pulling rollers 66 is the static support 82 continued. In this area it tapers in the direction of a stuffing nozzle 68 . The static edition 82 has already been described in more detail above. The strips get further downstream 14th to a strand forming unit 20th in which they use the darning nozzle 68 a format channel 22nd are fed. The way out of the strip 14th manufactured strand 4th passes further downstream into a cutting module 84 . In the cutting module 84 there is a rotating knife carrier 86 or knife device, with the help of which the strand 4th into individual rod-shaped articles 88 is cut. The ones from the strand 4th cut rod-shaped article 88 are further downstream to a removal module 89 to hand over. The removal module 89 transfers the longitudinal axial transport of the rod-shaped articles 88 in a transverse axial transport. This is implemented, for example, by a push-in drum. Defective rod-shaped articles can also be found on the push-in drum 88 can be detected and also sorted out.

9 shows a further device in a schematically simplified detailed side view 2 for making a strand 4th the tobacco processing industry. The device 2 includes a bobbin changer as an unwinding unit 10 with a first arbor 52 and a second mandrel 54 . The bobbin is exemplary 8th on the second arbor 54 available. The alternative position of the bobbin 8th on the first arbor 52 is indicated in a dashed line. The bobbin 8th is also unwound, for example, counterclockwise, the flat web 6th thus runs only by way of example along the route shown with a solid line. Alternative routes along which the flat track 6th depending on the direction of rotation in which the bobbin 8th is unwound, and also depending on which of the two mandrels 52 , 54 the bobbin 8th is arranged, are also shown with a dashed line. The alternative tracks of the flat track are also shown 6th , depending on whether the bobbin 8th has just been reinstalled or the flat runway 6th has already been unwound very far. Is the bobbin 8th almost used up, that's how the flat track runs 6th closer to the arbor 52 , 54 .

The flat track 6th arrives at a dancer via various pulleys, which are not denoted by reference numerals 56 with which the desired web tension is maintained. Downstream of the unwinding unit 10 reaches the flat track 6th into a web guiding device 90 , which can also be designed as a module. In the web guiding device 90 becomes the flat track 6th initially in a pair of pulling rollers 92 introduced. The upper of the two draw rollers is designed to be tiltable or foldable, for example, so that the flat web 6th easier into the pair of pulling rollers 92 can be inserted. The flat track 6th comes to another dancer 56 until it then passes over a first pulley 94 around a first pulley axis 96 rotates, and a second pulley 98 around a second pulley axis 100 rotates, is guided. Then the flat track arrives 6th to the reels 26th , 28 in which they are in individual strips 14th is separated. The two pulleys 94 , 98 determine the transport route of the flat track in sections 6th within the web guiding device 90 . The pulleys 94 , 98 are mounted in such a way that their pulley axles 96 , 100 are pivotable. A pivoting of the pulley axles 96 , 100 changes a feeding position of the flat web 6th in the effective area of the separating device which is present in the downstream downstream 12th arranged rollers 26th , 28 . The pulleys 94 , 98 are connected to one another, for example, via a four-bar linkage, so that the feed position of the flat web 6th in a plane that is perpendicular to the plane of the paper of the representation in 9 stands, to the front and to the rear (in plan view transversely to the transport direction TR ) can be changed. In 3rd is this variation of the feed position with one across the flat web 6th running double arrow indicated.

It is also, for example, a sensor unit 58 in the web guiding device 90 arranged. With this sensor unit 58 can the flat track 6th for example, can be examined for imperfections. It is also possible with the help of the sensor unit 58 a material thickness of the flat sheet 6th to determine. The sensor unit 58 has already been described above and works, for example, in a transmitted light method.

When the flat track 6th into the separator 12th occurs, their position can also be determined using a web edge detection device 64 to be determined. The web edge detection device 64 with which the feed position of the flat web 6th to the reels 26th , 28 can also be determined via an in 9 Control and / or regulating device, not shown, with the web guiding device 90 be coupled. It is thus possible to control and / or regulate the position or orientation of the first and second deflection roller axes 96 , 100 the feeding position of the flat web 6th to the reels 26th , 28 to control and / or regulate with feedback. After the flat track 6th into a variety of strips 14th has been separated, these strips become 14th on a static pad 82 performed before the pair of pulling rollers 66 are supplied, which is exemplified in the embodiment of 9 inside the separator 12th is arranged. For guiding the strips 14th are side walls 102 intended. The static edition 82 runs between the rollers 26th , 28 and the pair of draw rollers 66 with constant width. One across the direction of transport TR measured distance between the side walls 102 is therefore in this area of the static support 82 constant. Between the pair of draw rollers 66 and the stuffing nozzle 68 the static support tapers off 82 in the direction of transport TR conical. The transport path of the strips 14th is in the direction of the stuffing nozzle 68 tighter, the stripes 14th are bundled.

The device 2 further comprises, for example, a further sensor unit with which a mechanical and / or fluidic property of the strand 4th or one from the strand 4th manufactured item 88 the tobacco processing industry can be measured. These mechanical and / or fluidic properties represent a product parameter of the article 88 A mechanical property is, for example, the hardness or flexural rigidity, a fluidic property is, for example, the tensile resistance of the article 88 . Such a sensor unit can, for example, be downstream of the removal module 89 be arranged. For example, there is an individual check of the articles 88 instead of. It is also, for example, a control unit provided, which is set up to the value of a product parameter of the article 88 represents to receive. The pulleys described above 94 , 98 are for example provided with actuators, such as motors or the like, so that the pulley axles 96 , 100 the pulleys 94 , 98 changed and thus the feed position of the flat web 6th in the effective area of the rollers 26th , 28 can be varied. It is thus possible to adjust the feed position according to a predeterminable functional relationship as a function of the value of the product parameter, for example the hardness or the tensile resistance of the article 88 to change. The desired product parameters of the article are possible through the dynamic control or regulation 88 keep constant.

The feeding position of the flat web 6th to the reels 26th , 28 can not only be changed by the fact that the flat track hits the rollers 26th , 28 is fed at different positions, it is also possible to change the position of the rollers 26th , 28 change yourself.

It applies to all of the aforementioned embodiments that the rollers 26th , 28 with which the flat track 6th into the multitude of individual stripes 14th is separated, can be designed differently. For example, the separating device comprises 12th a holder in which the rollers 26th , 28 are added, which comprises an adjusting device with which a distance between the first axis 27 and the second axis 29 is changeable. The two reels 26th , 28 are also designed so that they are in at least one along the respective axis 27 , 29 extending axial section adjacent elevations 36 include, which have radii of different sizes. Further details are in the not pre-published DE 10 2018 122 980 disclosed, the content of which is fully incorporated into the present description by reference.

The reels 26th , 28 can also be designed as intermittent rollers. The surveys 36 such an intermittent roller each include at least one recess that the elevations 36 interrupts. These recesses in the surveys 36 are along a helix that forms the rollers 26th , 28 spanned, arranged. The center of this helix coincides with the respective axis 27 , 29 together. It is usually sufficient if one of the two rollers 26th , 28 is designed as an intermittent roller. As a result, with the help of such a device, the flat track 6th Stripes 14th produced, which are connected to each other via webs. The flat track 6th is therefore not consistently in completely separate individual strips 14th separated. A separator with intermittent rollers 26th , 28 is in the not pre-published DE 10 2018 121 618 described in detail, the content of which is fully incorporated into the present description by reference.

It is also provided, for example, that the cutting rollers 26th , 28 are provided with a deflector, which allows the removal of the individual strips 14th from the effective area of the rollers 26th , 28 supported. The deflection device comprises at least one deflection element which comprises webs which are inserted into the grooves of the first or second roller 26th , 28 intervention. The deflector element is designed in sections as a plate-shaped deflector, the one downstream of the effective area of the separating device 12th a closed surface is formed which extends in the axial direction of the rollers 26th , 28 extends over at least two webs of the deflecting element. A rejection element is detailed in the not pre-published DE 10 2019 100 755 the content of which is fully incorporated into the present description by reference.

It is also provided in particular that scrapers are provided which are designed, for example, in the form of a comb or rake, the prongs or teeth of such a rake or comb being guided down to the bottom of the groove or in its immediate vicinity. Any fragments of the flat web that may arise are scraped out 6th or other impurities from the groove bottom instead. The reels 26th or 28 in other words are scraped free with such a rake or comb.

Furthermore, it is particularly provided that in the area of the effective area of the rollers 26th , 28 and / or also in the area of the stuffing nozzle 68 or the inlet funnel 18th dust extraction is provided. With the help of such a suction device, not shown in the figures, the dust pollution of the environment can be kept low. It can also contaminate the device 2 avoided or prevented.

It is also provided in particular that the device 2 is modular. The individual modules can be combined in various ways. It is further provided, for example, that the individual modules are designed to be hermetically sealed, in particular dust-tight, and are connected to one another in a hermetically sealed manner, so that the surroundings of the device are exposed to dust 2 can be reduced.

A further, independent design of the device is also disclosed 2 for making a strand 4th of the tobacco processing industry, comprising a supply module 10 to provide a flat track 6th , in particular from a flat web wound on a bobbin 6th , a separator 12th , which is set up to do this, a flat track 6th into a variety of strips 14th and a strand forming unit 20th that is set up from the multitude of strips 14th the strand 4th the tobacco processing industry, characterized in that the separating device 12th a first roller and a second roller cooperating therewith 26th , 28 comprises, with lateral surfaces 30th , 32 of the rollers 26th , 28 in the axial direction A. alternately juxtaposed in the circumferential direction closed circumferential grooves 34 and surveys 36 have and in an effective area the elevations 36 the first roller 26th in the grooves 34 the second roller 28 and the surveys 36 the second roller 28 in the grooves 34 the first roller 26th intervene, and that the device has a cutting unit for cutting the flat web 6th to a predetermined width in order to reduce the amount of flat web, and the cutting unit upstream of the cutting device 12th is arranged and / or that the device has a separation unit which has at least 1, 2 , 3, 4th or more than 4th Separated strips severed by the separating device and, in particular, in a protective box 74 , weed out. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the device 2 a control unit for controlling the cutting unit and / or the separation unit and in response to a sensor 64 for detecting an edge position of the flat web 6th and / or in response to a sensor 58 to determine the thickness, density and / or total mass of a section of the flat web 6th the width of the flat track 6th and / or the number of strips 14th controls and / or regulates, the cutting unit preferably having a cutting blade, and preferably the cutting unit and / or separation unit in a direction transverse to the transport direction of the flat web 6th is designed to be movable. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the provision module 10 a flat web rolled up on a bobbin 6th and has a motor for driving the reel and in particular a brake, the motor and in particular the brake being controllable by the control unit in such a way as to prevent the flat web from tearing 6th to prevent. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the device has a strip tensioning device for exerting and maintaining a predetermined tension on the strips during the transport of the strips 14th from the cutting device to the strand forming unit. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the flat web has reconstituted tobacco material.

A further independent design of the reel supply module is also disclosed 10 for providing a flat web taken up on a bobbin 6th , in particular a flat sheet containing tobacco or nicotine 6th , preferably made of reconstituted tobacco material, the bobbin provision module having at least one receiving mandrel, preferably at least two receiving mandrels, for receiving the bobbins, an unwinding device, in particular with active unwinding support, for pulling off the flat web 6th of the reel, a storage area, for example a pallet, for storing a plurality of reels, and a transfer unit which picks up a reel from the storage area and places it on a receiving mandrel, characterized in that the reel supply module has an air-conditioning device that supports the storage area , the unwinding device and / or the transfer unit air-conditioned, and in particular hermetically delimited, is preferably made hermetically sealed. A preferred development of the bobbin provision module is characterized in that the transfer unit is designed as a gripping robot and preferably has a gripping head for gripping the bobbin core. The gripping head is optionally equipped with at least one, two, three or at least four sensors for detecting the bobbin core. A preferred development of the bobbin provision module is characterized in that the unwinding device has a drive which drives and rotates at least one take-up mandrel. A preferred development of the reel supply module is characterized in that the air conditioning device has sensors for measuring the temperature and / or humidity. A preferred development of the reel supply module is characterized in that the air conditioning device has a control unit which is connected to at least one sensor for measuring the humidity and / or temperature and preferably the humidity and / or temperature at least in the area of the storage area, unwinding device and / or transfer unit controls and / or regulates to a specific setpoint. A preferred development of the bobbin provision module is characterized in that the air-conditioning device has an air-impermeable curtain at least in sections and / or at least in sections fixed protection in order to climatically delimit at least the area of the storage area, unwinding device and / or transfer unit and, in particular, to shield it essentially hermetically.

A further, independent design of the device is also disclosed 2 for making a strand 4th of the tobacco processing industry, comprising a separating device 12th , which is set up to do this, a flat track 6th into a variety of strips 14th to be separated, characterized in that the separating device 12th a first roller and a second roller cooperating therewith 26th , 28 comprises, with lateral surfaces 30th , 32 of the rollers 26th , 28 in the axial direction A. alternately grooves arranged next to one another and running closed in the circumferential direction 34 and surveys 36 have and in an effective area the elevations 36 the first roller 26th in the grooves 34 the second roller 28 and the surveys 36 the second roller 28 in the grooves 34 the first roller 26th intervene, a sensor device for detecting the at least one flat web edge being arranged upstream and a positioning device which aligns the flat web transversely to its transport direction, in particular to the position of the separating device, and wherein the device 2 furthermore a strand forming unit 20th which is configured to select from the plurality of strips 14th the strand 4th the tobacco processing industry. A preferred development of the device for producing a strand is characterized in that the positioning device positions the edge of the flat web in such a way that the strip of the flat web produced by the cutting device, one edge of which corresponds to the edge of the flat web, and in particular essentially the Has the width of the groove and elevation used to separate the strip, or in particular at least 80% or 90%, preferably 95%, particularly preferably 98% of the arithmetic mean of the groove width and the width of the elevation. A preferred development of the device for producing a strand is characterized in that the device has a cutting unit for cutting the flat web 6th to a predetermined width in order to reduce the amount of flat web, and the cutting unit upstream of the cutting device 12th is arranged and / or that the device has a separation unit which has at least 1, 2 , 3, 4th or more than 4th Separated strips severed by the separating device and, in particular, in a protective box 74 , separates, and that the strip of the flat web created by the separating device 6th , one edge of the strip corresponding to the edge of the flat web created by the cutting unit, in particular essentially having the width of the groove and elevation used to separate the strip, in particular at least 80% or 90%, preferably 95%, particularly preferably 98% of the arithmetic By means of groove width and width of the elevation.

A further, independent design of the device is also disclosed 2 for making a strand 4th of the tobacco processing industry, comprising a separating device 12th , which is set up to do this, a flat track 6th into a variety of strips 14th to be separated, characterized in that the separating device 12th a first roller and a second roller cooperating therewith 26th , 28 comprises, with lateral surfaces 30th , 32 of the rollers 26th , 28 in the axial direction A. alternately juxtaposed in the circumferential direction closed circumferential grooves 34 and surveys 36 have and in an effective area the elevations 36 the first roller 26th in the grooves 34 the second roller 28 and the surveys 36 the second roller 28 in the grooves 34 the first roller 26th engage, with a strip tensioning device downstream of the separating device 70 for detecting the web tension of the flat web separated into strips is arranged and wherein the device 2 further downstream of the strip tensioning device 70 a strand forming unit 20th which is configured to select from the plurality of strips 14th the strand 4th the tobacco processing industry. A preferred development of the device 2 is characterized in that the strip tensioning device 70 comprises two deflection rollers arranged slightly offset from one another, with which the plurality of strips 14th are slightly deflectable from the transport plane and, for example, one of these deflection rollers has a sensor which detects a force transverse to an axis of rotation of the deflection rollers, from which in particular the tension of the strips 14th is determinable. A preferred development or alternative of the device is characterized in that the device has an optical sensor and an evaluation device, the sensor causing the strips to sag 14th detected as a result of gravity and the evaluation device, in particular by means of an image analysis based on the sagging of the strips, determines the tension of the strips, and in particular the tension of the strips 14th controls and / or regulates. A preferred development of the device 2 is characterized in that the device is a control and / or regulating device 76 the tension of the strips 14th having, the tension of the strip 14th preferably using the strip tensioning device 70 is measurable.

A further, independent design of the device is also disclosed 2 for making a strand 4th of the tobacco processing industry, comprising a separating device 12th , which is set up to do this, a flat track 6th into a variety of strips 14th to be separated, characterized in that the separating device 12th a first roller and a second roller cooperating therewith 26th , 28 comprises, with lateral surfaces 30th , 32 of the rollers 26th , 28 in the axial direction A. alternately juxtaposed in the circumferential direction closed circumferential grooves 34 and surveys 36 have and in an effective area the elevations 36 the first roller 26th in the grooves 34 the second roller 28 and the surveys 36 the second roller 28 in the grooves 34 the first roller 26th intervene, and the device 2 furthermore a strand forming unit 20th which is configured to select from the plurality of strips 14th the strand 4th the tobacco processing industry and that the device has a static support 82 for guiding the strips 14th having downstream of the Separating device is arranged. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the device has a pair of draw rollers and at least two static supports, the first static support preferably being arranged downstream of the separating device and upstream of the pair of draw rollers and the second static support preferably downstream of the pair of draw rollers and in particular upstream of the strand forming unit 20th is arranged. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that at least one static support extends in the direction of transport TR the stripe 14th preferably conically tapered in sections, in particular the transport path of the strips in the transport plane preferably conically narrowed at least in sections. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that at least one static support has side walls, in particular on both sides, which are in particular adjustable, the side walls preferably being designed as magnetic strips, particularly preferably in sections as magnetic strips. The side walls are on the side, i.e. at right angles to the direction of transport TR the stripe 14th , arranged limitations of the static support. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the static support has a flat surface for supporting and conveying the strips, which is preferably made of a metal or has metal. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the static support has a core material and a surface material, preferably ceramic, wherein the surface material is preferably arranged at least in sections on the static support, preferably as a coating or as an insert, in particular as an embedded insert, whereby the coefficient of friction of the strips 14th on the surface material is less than the coefficient of friction of the strips 14th is on the core material. A preferred development of the device is characterized in that the static support is designed as a conveyor belt that runs along with it.

List of reference symbols

2

contraption

4th

strand

6th

Flat track

8th

Bobbin

10

Unwinding unit

12th

Separator

14th

Stripes

141

first stripes

142

second strip

143

third stripe

16

Transport roller

18th

Inlet funnel

20th

Strand forming unit

22nd

Format channel

24

rod-shaped segments

26th

first roller

27

first axis

28

second roller

29

second axis

30th

first lateral surface

32

second lateral surface

34

Grooves

341

first grooves

342

second grooves

343

third grooves

36

Surveys

361

first surveys

362

second surveys

363

third surveys

38

Top

40

ground

42

first flanks

44

second flanks

46

axial gap

48

edge

50

Transfer module

52

first mandrel

54

second arbor

56

dancer

58

Sensor unit

60

Width cutting module

62

Circular knife

64

Web edge detection device

66

Pair of draw rollers

68

Darning nozzle

70

Strip tensioning device

72

Reject strip

74

Shot box

76

Control and / or regulating device

78

Forming geometry

80

Strand measuring device

82

static support

84

Cutting module

86

Knife carrier

88

rod-shaped articles

89

Removal module

90

Web guiding device

92

Pair of draw rollers

94

first pulley

96

first pulley axle

98

second pulley

100

second pulley axis

102

side walls

E.

Strip plane

A.

Axial direction

T

Parting plane

TR

Transport direction

R.

Radial direction

D.

distance

B1

first width

B2

second width

B3

third width

BZ1

first associated width

BZ2

second associated width

BZ3

third associated width

SB

Strip width

SB1

first strip width

SB2

second stripe width

SB3

third strip width

Z1

first zone

Z2

second zone

Z3

third zone

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 1954036 [0002]
• DE 2526850 [0004]
• EP 2969871 B1 [0041, 0042, 0077]
• WO 2016/059022 A1 [0041, 0043, 0077]
• DE 102019117180 [0041, 0044, 0077]
• DE 102019102297 [0041, 0046, 0077]
• DE 102018106826 [0056]
• DE 102018122980 [0100]
• DE 102018121618 [0101]
• DE 102019100755 [0102]

Claims (15)

Device (2) for producing a strand (4) for the tobacco processing industry, comprising a separating device (12) which is set up to separate a flat web (6) into a plurality of strips (14), characterized in that the separating device ( 12) comprises a first and a second roller (26, 28) cooperating with this, with lateral surfaces (30, 32) of the rollers (26, 28) in the axial direction (A) alternately arranged next to one another in the circumferential direction closed circumferential grooves (34) and elevations (36) and in an active area the elevations (36) of the first roller (26) in the grooves (34) of the second roller (28) and the elevations (36) of the second roller (28) in the grooves (34) of the engage the first roller (26), the rollers (26, 28) being designed such that a first width (B1) of a first elevation (361) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and a first associated width (BZ1) a first Nu cooperating with the first elevation (361) t (341) of the second or first roller (28, 26) is greater or smaller than a second width (B2) of a second elevation (362) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and a second associated width (BZ2) of a second groove (342) of the second or first roller (28, 26) cooperating with the second elevation (362), and wherein the device (2) further comprises a strand-forming unit (20) which is designed to produce from the plurality of strips ( 14) to form strand (4) of the tobacco processing industry. Device (2) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the rollers (26, 28) of the separating device (12) are designed such that the widths (B1, B2, B3) of the elevations (361, 362, 363) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and the associated widths (BZ1, BZ2, BZ3) of the grooves (341, 342, 343) cooperating with these elevations (361, 362, 363), viewed in the axial direction (A) and with increasing distance from one end of the respective roller (26 , 28) in the direction of an opposite end of the roller (26, 28), increase monotonically, in particular in steps, furthermore in particular continuously. Device (2) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the rollers (26, 28) of the separating device (12) are designed such that the widths (B1, B2, B3) of the elevations (361, 362, 363) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and the associated widths (BZ1, BZ2, BZ3) of the grooves (341, 342, 343) cooperating with this elevation (361, 362, 363) in non-overlapping circumferential sections extending in the axial direction (A) are constant, the Widths (B1) of the elevations (361) and the associated widths (BZ1) of the grooves (341) of a first circumferential section larger or smaller than the widths (B2) of the elevations (362) and the associated widths (BZ2) of the grooves (342) of a second peripheral portion. Device (2) according to one of the Claims 1 to 3rd , characterized by a web guiding device (90) arranged upstream of the separating device (12) with at least one first first deflecting roller (94) rotatable about a first deflecting roller axis (96) and a second second deflecting roller (98) rotatable about a second deflecting roller axis (100), which Define at least some sections of a transport path for the flat web (6) through the web guiding device (90), the deflecting rollers (94, 98) being mounted in such a way that their deflecting roller axles (96, 100) can be pivoted in such a way that by pivoting the deflecting roller axles (96, 100) a feed position of the flat web (6) in the active area of the first and second rollers (26, 28) can be changed along the axial direction (A). Device (2) according to one of the Claims 1 to 4th , characterized in that the rollers (26, 28) of the separating device (12) are jointly displaceable in the axial direction (A), so that by moving the rollers (26, 28) a feed position of the flat web (6) into the active area of the rollers (26, 28) is variable along the axial direction (A). Device (2) according to Claim 4 or 5 , characterized by a control unit which is set up to receive a value of a product parameter which describes a mechanical or fluidic property of the strand (4) or of an article (88) produced from the strand (4) for the tobacco processing industry, the Control unit is set up to control actuators present in the separating device (12) in such a way that they cause a pivoting movement of the deflection roller axes (96, 100) and / or move the deflection rollers (94, 98) in the axial direction (A), so that a feed position of the Flat web (6) in the active area of the rollers (26, 28) can be changed in such a way that the feed position can be changed according to a predeterminable functional relationship as a function of the value of the product parameter. Device (2) according to one of the Claims 1 to 6th , characterized in that the separating device (12) is set up to split the flat web (6) along predetermined separating lines into strips (14) in that the flat web (6) is stretched transversely to a separating plane (T) so much that it is along the dividing line tears apart and immediately adjacent strips (14) arise. Device (2) according to Claim 7 , characterized in that the elevations (36) and the grooves (34) are connected to one another by radially extending flanks and the parting plane (T) between a first flank of the first roller (26) and a second flank of the second roller (28), the separating device (12) being set up for separating the flat web (6) with a predetermined material thickness, with an axial gap between the first and second flanks that is one to three times as large a value of a predetermined material thickness of the flat web (6). Method for producing a strand (4) for the tobacco processing industry, characterized in that a flat web (6) is separated into a plurality of strips (14) with a separating device (12), the separating device (12) having a first and a second Rolls (26, 28) and jacket surfaces (30, 32) of the rolls (26, 28) in the axial direction (A) alternately juxtaposed in the circumferential direction, closed circumferential grooves (34) and elevations (36), the rolls (26, 28) cooperate during the severing of the flat web (6) in that the elevations (36) of the first roller (26) in the grooves (34) of the second roller (28) and the elevations (36) of the second roller (28 ) engage in the grooves (34) of the first roller (26), the rollers (26, 28) being designed such that a first width (B1) of a first elevation (361) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and a first associated width (BZ1) one with the first elevation (361) cooperating first groove (341) of the second or first roller (28, 26) is larger or smaller than a second width (B2) of a second elevation (362) of the first or second roller (26, 28) and a second associated width (BZ2 ) a second groove (342) of the second or first roller (28, 26) cooperating with the second elevation (362), so that the flat web (6) is separated into the plurality of strips (14) with the separating device (12), of which at least two strips (141, 142) have a different width, and wherein the rod (4) of the tobacco processing industry is formed from the plurality of strips (14) with a rod-forming unit (20). Procedure according to Claim 9 , characterized in that the flat web (6), viewed in the axial direction (A) and with increasing distance from one end of the roller (26, 28) in the direction of an opposite end of the roller (26, 28), is divided into strips (14) whose width increases monotonically, in particular in steps, furthermore in particular continuously. Procedure according to Claim 9 , characterized in that the flat web (6) is divided into strips (14), the widths of which in a first section are larger or smaller than the widths (14) of the strips in a second section, the widths of the strips (14) in the sections are constant and the first and second sections are not overlapping. Method according to one of the Claims 9 to 11 , characterized in that the flat web (6) is introduced into the active area of the cutting rollers (26, 28) at a feed position which can be changed along the axial direction (A). Procedure according to Claim 12 , characterized in that a value is determined which describes a mechanical or fluidic property of the strand (4) of the tobacco processing industry, the feed position of the flat web (6) being changed according to a predeterminable functional relationship as a function of the determined value. Method according to one of the Claims 9 to 13th , characterized in that the flat web (6) is divided into strips (14) along predetermined dividing lines, in that the flat web (6) is stretched transversely to a dividing plane (T) so much that it tears apart along the dividing line and immediately adjacent strips ( 14) arise. Rod-shaped article (88) of the tobacco processing industry, produced from a strand (4) of the tobacco processing industry, which is produced by a method according to one of the Claims 9 to 14th was produced.

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