EP0731024B1 - Device for checking cigarettes - Google Patents

Device for checking cigarettes Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0731024B1
EP0731024B1 EP96107154A EP96107154A EP0731024B1 EP 0731024 B1 EP0731024 B1 EP 0731024B1 EP 96107154 A EP96107154 A EP 96107154A EP 96107154 A EP96107154 A EP 96107154A EP 0731024 B1 EP0731024 B1 EP 0731024B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
test
cigarettes
cigarette
unit
positioning unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP96107154A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0731024A2 (en
EP0731024A3 (en
Inventor
Heinz Focke
Dietrich Below
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Focke and Co GmbH and Co KG
Original Assignee
Focke and Co GmbH and Co KG
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Publication date
Application filed by Focke and Co GmbH and Co KG filed Critical Focke and Co GmbH and Co KG
Publication of EP0731024A2 publication Critical patent/EP0731024A2/en
Publication of EP0731024A3 publication Critical patent/EP0731024A3/en
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Publication of EP0731024B1 publication Critical patent/EP0731024B1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B19/00—Packaging rod-shaped or tubular articles susceptible to damage by abrasion or pressure, e.g. cigarettes, cigars, macaroni, spaghetti, drinking straws or welding electrodes
    • B65B19/28—Control devices for cigarette or cigar packaging machines
    • B65B19/30—Control devices for cigarette or cigar packaging machines responsive to presence of faulty articles, e.g. incorrectly filled cigarettes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24C—MACHINES FOR MAKING CIGARS OR CIGARETTES
    • A24C5/00—Making cigarettes; Making tipping materials for, or attaching filters or mouthpieces to, cigars or cigarettes
    • A24C5/32—Separating, ordering, counting or examining cigarettes; Regulating the feeding of tobacco according to rod or cigarette condition
    • A24C5/34—Examining cigarettes or the rod, e.g. for regulating the feeding of tobacco; Removing defective cigarettes
    • A24C5/3412—Examining cigarettes or the rod, e.g. for regulating the feeding of tobacco; Removing defective cigarettes by means of light, radiation or electrostatic fields

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for checking the ends of cigarettes in the area of upright test channels in which individual rows of cigarettes from one another, with their ends facing sideways cigarettes from the top are movable below, especially in a cigarette magazine a packaging machine, being in the area of a test level
  • a test unit is arranged on one side of the test channels Sensors, namely transmitters and receivers for transmission and Receiving a test beam in the area of end faces of a Test group of the cigarettes and their adjacent side surfaces.
  • Such a test device is the subject of EP-A-0 338 241. It's about the two end areas of the cigarettes to check for correct training, namely with regard to sufficient tobacco filling and if necessary regarding the presence of a filter.
  • Faulty Cigarettes are identified and extracted from the cigarette magazine pushed out. Inside the cigarette magazine is in a test unit on both sides of a test level. This is equipped with transmitters and receivers. From the transmitters is light on the end or end faces of a cigarette Test group directed. In one adjacent to the end faces The area is on either side of the cigarettes to be tested Receiver arranged that through the side surfaces, so received light through cigarette paper. A Excessive light emission is an indication of the faulty Training the cigarette.
  • the invention is based on the object of a test device to further improve this or a similar design and a to enable even more precise examination of the cigarettes.
  • the device according to the invention is used to achieve this object characterized in that on one of the test unit a positioning unit on the opposite side of the test channels for elastic and individual pressurization of the Cigarettes is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the same.
  • the cigarettes of a test group preferably two superimposed cigarettes, recipient assigned to itself as a unit, or as a unitary Extend organ over the area of cigarettes. This means a larger receiving area for that from the cigarettes (laterally) emerging light available.
  • the recipients are flat silicon photo elements that are also known as solar cells.
  • test is carried out in such a way that during a Test cycle first one and then the other cigarette the test beam (light) is applied.
  • the one for both cigarettes become common, sheet-like receivers therefore first with the light of one and then the other cigarette acted upon.
  • test unit is transverse to the test channels or in The longitudinal direction of the cigarettes can be moved in cycles. For the downward transport of the cigarettes after a test cycle the test unit is withdrawn so that the cigarettes can be moved freely. For the test cycle, the Test unit moved to the ends of the cigarettes.
  • the test unit is composed of individual test organs, each assigned to a cigarette or a test group of the same are.
  • the U-shaped test organs in the floor plan, each with the for sensors required for a test group are located side by side assembled into a test unit, and with ease releasable connecting elements. This is the assembly of the test unit facilitated. Furthermore, a later replacement, Repair and cleaning of individual test organs possible.
  • the details shown in the drawings go it is about testing cigarettes 10 with a filter 11 in regarding the correct formation of end areas.
  • the Cigarettes 10 are disordered, but in parallel aligned in a cigarette magazine 12 entered.
  • the basic structure of this corresponds approximately to the cigarette magazine according to EP-A-0 338 241.
  • the cigarettes pass through a test area 13, the the widest point within an up and down converging magazine housing 14 is arranged.
  • the tested and intact cigarettes 10 get into one Collection room 15 below the test area 13. From here the cigarettes are placed in upright magazine slots 16 introduced.
  • the cigarettes 10 At the bottom of the grouped Magazine chutes 16, the cigarettes 10 as Cigarette groups according to the contents of one pack pushed out.
  • the test area 13 also consists of a number of Upright shafts arranged parallel to each other or Test channels 17. Their width is slightly larger than that Diameter of a cigarette, so that within the test channels 17 each row of cigarettes 18 from individual, one above the other Cigarettes are formed. The cigarettes 10 or rows of cigarettes 18 are within the test channels 17 moved down due to its own weight.
  • the Test channels 17 are separated from one another by web-like channel walls 19 Cut.
  • the cigarettes 10 are in the area of a test level 20 of the Checked range 13. During a test cycle several superimposed cigarettes 10 in each test channel 17 checked.
  • This test group 45 consists of The present case consists of two superimposed cigarettes 10.
  • the arrangement is such that the cigarettes 10 be fixed within the test channels 17 so that the Check during an exact rest position of the cigarettes 10 can be performed.
  • the test level 20 holding members for the cigarettes 10 in the Test channels 17 provided, namely elongated Clamping elements, namely clamping fingers 21. These store in lateral recesses of the channel walls 19 and fix each a cigarette 10 by pressing on the opposite channel wall 19. This is also the part of the cigarette rows 18 positioned above.
  • the comb 22 is a unit Can be pushed back and forth in the horizontal plane. In the one position (Fig. 1) are the webs 23 in Area of the test channels 17. The above the comb 22 located cigarette rows 18 are based on the Web 23. In this position you can underneath the clamping fingers 21, in one of two exposed cigarettes 10 formed area, any defective cigarettes 10 are ejected by not shown in detail Organs that act in the longitudinal direction of the cigarettes.
  • test channels 17 By moving the comb 22 to the other position the test channels 17 are released downwards.
  • the bridges 23 are in the range of (showing interruptions) Channel walls 19. Formed between the webs 23 Spaces are congruent within the test channels 17.
  • the tested and intact cigarettes 10 can now fall into the collecting room 17.
  • the test channels 17 extended down beyond the level of the ridge 22 through appropriately dimensioned or extended duct walls 19th
  • the cigarettes 10 are in the test level 20 by an in specially designed testing unit in relation to checked the correct formation of the end areas.
  • the testing unit exists in the embodiment according to FIG. 2 of two test units 24, 25, which are in test level 20 both sides of the cigarette magazine 12 are arranged.
  • the test units 24, 25 form analogously to the device according to EP-A-0 338 241 upright depressions or recesses 26. In these upright recesses 26 enter the Cigarettes 10 with one downward movement End range. This is then during a test cycle checked.
  • each cigarette 10 or special sensors are assigned to each cigarette end. Adjacent is to each end surface 27 of the cigarettes 10 a sensor, namely a transmitter 28, 29. This sends one Test beam, namely a light beam, in the longitudinal direction in the cigarette to be tested 10. Furthermore, the cigarettes Assigned to 10 sensors arranged on both sides, which act as receivers 30, 31. These are special Wise trained and arranged. It is about flat or plate-shaped, light-sensitive sensors, in particular around silicon photo elements in planar technology. These receive light on the entire surface, so that a large measuring range is available.
  • test units 24 and 25 are structurally special Designed wisely.
  • On an elongated support 32 the here formed like an uneven double T-profile is, individual test organs 33 are detachable or removable appropriate.
  • Each test group is 45 of (two) cigarettes such a test organ 33 assigned.
  • One of the number of Test channels 17 is the corresponding number of test organs 33 accordingly arranged next to each other on each test unit 24, 25.
  • the test organs 33 are in plan or cross section U-shaped. On a body 34 are on the Cigarettes 10 facing side two legs 35, 36 arranged which limit the recess 26 laterally and themselves thus extend next to the ends of the cigarettes 10.
  • the Test organs 33 can be made from a pourable, hardened Material, e.g. B. consist of plastic.
  • the sensors namely transmitters 28, 29 on the one hand and receivers 30, 31 on the other hand, are embedded in the test device 33.
  • the two transmitters 28, 29 are in the body 34 and the two receivers 30, 31 with a section in the area of Body 34 and with another section in the area of Legs 35, 36.
  • the material of the test organs 33 is translucent, so that transmitter 28, 29 and / or receiver 30, 31 can be embedded with a material cover.
  • the Sensors are therefore against mechanical influences and especially protected against pollution without the Effectiveness is impaired.
  • Each test unit 24, 25 is one of the number of simultaneously test groups to be tested 45 corresponding number equipped by test organs 33. These are in a row attached side by side to the carrier 32.
  • the inspection bodies 33 are dimensioned so that they are taken into account of the distances between the rows of cigarettes 18 in Sealing layer are formed side by side.
  • the test organs 33 are in a recess with the body 34 37 of the carrier 32 positioned.
  • the test organs 33 are by releasable connecting means with each other and with the Carrier 32 connected, with an upright profile web 38 of the same.
  • For connecting the test organs 33 to one another serve U-profiles 39. These include with their Flanges each have two adjacent legs 35, 36 adjacent test organs 39.
  • the legs 35, 36 are closed this purpose provided with recesses so that the U-profiles 39 with the free surfaces of the legs 35, 36 lie flush.
  • the U-profiles 39 are in turn with holding means on the carrier 32, namely on its profile web 38 attached.
  • screws 40 which are in the Area of a parting plane between neighboring test organs 33 from the free side of the U-profiles 39 to the profile web 38 run and are anchored in this with thread.
  • the Screws 40 are formed with a countersunk head, so that the surfaces of the U-profiles 39 facing the channel walls 19 are smooth. Two screws one above the other 40 serve to anchor the U-profiles 39 on the profile web 38.
  • Carrier 32 On the opposite side of the test organs 33 Carrier 32 is this with a extending in the longitudinal direction Provided cavity 41. This is outside by one Cover 42 closed.
  • the channel-like cavity 41 can electrical organs, e.g. B. lines for connection with the leading to the sensors 28..31, in the body 34 embedded lines.
  • Test unit 25 is movable in the horizontal plane, and indeed across the cigarette magazine 12, that is, in the longitudinal direction of cigarettes 10.
  • the carrier 32 is over an extension at both ends with guide rods 43 slidable in part of the magazine housing 14 stored.
  • the test unit 25 is lifted from the cigarette magazine or withdrawn so that the ends of the cigarettes 10 exposed.
  • the test unit 25 is in the position 2 in contact with the cigarette magazine 12, wherein the ends of the cigarettes 10 enter the recesses 26.
  • the opposite test unit 24 can in the same way be adjustable. In the present embodiment is however the test unit 24 during the Operation of the device unchanged in the position on Cigarette magazine 12 held (test position).
  • the test unit 24 is however with one end in a pivot bearing 44 held.
  • the test unit 24 can rotate around the rotary bearing 44 pivoted, i.e. lifted off the cigarette magazine 12 will.
  • the pivot bearing 44 is on the side or at the end of Carrier 32 arranged so that the test unit 24 in total completely moved back from the cigarette magazine 12, namely can be pivoted so that all test organs 33 for Cleaning or repair purposes are exposed.
  • test unit 6 and 7 show.
  • test unit 46 is only one test unit 46 provided. This is to one side in test level 20 of the cigarette magazine 12 or the test channels 17.
  • the test unit 46 is the filterless one End faces 47 of the cigarettes 10 assigned.
  • the construction and the functioning of the test unit 46 corresponds to the test units 24, 25 of the embodiment of FIG. 2. It the same reference numbers are therefore used.
  • Opposite test unit 46 on the other side of the cigarette magazine 12 is a positioning unit 49 arranged.
  • the positioning unit 49 is the one with filters 11 provided end faces 48 of the cigarettes 10.
  • the positioning unit 49 has several at a distance from one another arranged, elastically loadable pressure members 57 on.
  • the pressure members 57 are designed as plungers 50.
  • the Ram 50 are the positioning unit in recesses 51 49 receiving carrier 52 arranged.
  • the plunger 50 cooperate with these associated springs 53 and ensure an elastic, individual pressurization the end faces 48 of the cigarettes 10 of a test group 45.
  • the plungers are arranged such that the Cigarettes 10 or their end faces 48 in the longitudinal direction of the Cigarettes 10 can be pressurized.
  • the longitudinal central axes the cigarettes 10 and the pestle assigned to them 50 approximately coincide or run approximately parallel to each other.
  • the plunger 50 protrude through the side Openings 54 of the magazine housing 14 into the test channels 17 of the cigarette magazine 12 and thus hit the end faces 48 of the cigarettes 10.
  • the positioning unit 49 it is possible to make length tolerances to compensate for the cigarettes 10 or for the Testing the cigarettes 10 measurement inaccuracies as a result of Avoid length tolerances. Due to the means of the pressure members 57 or plunger 50 on the end faces 48 of the Cigarettes 10 exerted pressure, the end faces 47 flat and under pressure on the test unit 46. column between cigarettes 10 and test unit 46 are avoided. The conduction of extraneous light to the receivers 30, 31 of the Test unit 46 is due to the avoidance of the column suppressed between cigarettes 10 and test unit 46. This ensures a more accurate, of length tolerances of the Cigarettes 10 independent testing of the same.
  • the number of plungers 50 to the number of test channels 17 Voted there are 17 per test channel according to the number of cigarettes 10 per test group 45 plunger 50 are provided. In this embodiment, these are two plungers 50 each Test channel 17 (Fig. 7), one above the other and at a distance are arranged to each other.
  • the positioning unit 49 can be moved in the horizontal plane, namely across the cigarette magazine 12, that is in the longitudinal direction of cigarettes 10.
  • the carrier 52 slidable on both sides or ends with guide rods 55 stored in part of the magazine housing 14.
  • the Positioning unit 49 is lifted off the cigarette magazine 12 or withdrawn such that the ends of the cigarettes 10 exposed.
  • the one opposite the positioning unit 49 Test unit 46 is in its position on the cigarette magazine 12 held. It is in a pivot bearing 56 stored and can therefore by pivoting around the pivot bearing 56 can be lifted off the cigarette magazine 12.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum Prüfen der Enden von Zigaretten im Bereich von aufrechten Prüfkanälen, in denen jeweils einzelne Zigaretten-Reihen von übereinander liegenden, mit ihren Enden seitwärts gerichteten Zigaretten von oben nach unten bewegbar sind, insbesondere in einem Zigaretten-Magazin einer Verpackungsmaschine, wobei im Bereich einer Prüfebene an einer Seite der Prüfkanäle eine Prüfeinheit angeordnet ist mit Sensoren, nämlich Sendern und Empfängern zum Aussenden und Empfangen eines Prüfstrahls im Bereich von Endflächen einer Prüfgruppe der Zigaretten und deren benachbarten Seitenflächen.The invention relates to a device for checking the ends of cigarettes in the area of upright test channels in which individual rows of cigarettes from one another, with their ends facing sideways cigarettes from the top are movable below, especially in a cigarette magazine a packaging machine, being in the area of a test level A test unit is arranged on one side of the test channels Sensors, namely transmitters and receivers for transmission and Receiving a test beam in the area of end faces of a Test group of the cigarettes and their adjacent side surfaces.

Eine derartige Prüfvorrichtung ist Gegenstand der EP-A-0 338 241. Es geht darum, die beiden Endbereiche der Zigaretten in Bezug auf korrekte Ausbildung zu überprüfen, nämlich hinsichtlich ausreichender Tabakfüllung und gegebenenfalls hinsichtlich des Vorhandenseins eines Filters. Fehlerhafte Zigaretten werden identifiziert und aus dem Zigaretten-Magazin ausgestoßen. Innerhalb des Zigaretten-Magazins befindet sich in einer Prüfebene an beiden Seiten jeweils eine Prüfeinheit. Diese ist mit Sendern und Empfängern bestückt. Von den Sendern wird Licht auf die Stirn- bzw. Endflächen der Zigaretten einer Prüfgruppe gerichtet. In einem den Endflächen benachbarten Bereich sind zu beiden Seiten der zu prüfenden Zigaretten Empfänger angeordnet, die das durch die Seitenflächen, also durch Zigarettenpapier, hindurchtretende Licht empfangen. Ein zu starker Lichtaustritt ist ein Hinweis für die fehlerhafte Ausbildung der Zigarette.Such a test device is the subject of EP-A-0 338 241. It's about the two end areas of the cigarettes to check for correct training, namely with regard to sufficient tobacco filling and if necessary regarding the presence of a filter. Faulty Cigarettes are identified and extracted from the cigarette magazine pushed out. Inside the cigarette magazine is in a test unit on both sides of a test level. This is equipped with transmitters and receivers. From the transmitters is light on the end or end faces of a cigarette Test group directed. In one adjacent to the end faces The area is on either side of the cigarettes to be tested Receiver arranged that through the side surfaces, so received light through cigarette paper. A Excessive light emission is an indication of the faulty Training the cigarette.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine Prüfvorrichtung dieser oder ähnlicher Ausführung weiter zu verbessern und eine noch genauere Prüfung der Zigaretten zu ermöglichen.The invention is based on the object of a test device to further improve this or a similar design and a to enable even more precise examination of the cigarettes.

Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe ist die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß an einer der Prüfeinheit gegenüberliegenden Seite der Prüfkanäle eine Positioniereinheit zur elastischen und individuellen Druckbeaufschlagung der Zigaretten in Längsrichtung derselben angeordnet ist.The device according to the invention is used to achieve this object characterized in that on one of the test unit a positioning unit on the opposite side of the test channels for elastic and individual pressurization of the Cigarettes is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the same.

So ist es möglich, Längentoleranzen der Zigaretten bei der Prüfung derselben auszugleichen, in dem die Zigaretten, nämlich die Enden der Zigaretten, flächig und unter leichtem Druck an der Prüfeinheit anliegen. Spalte, die sich infolge der Längentoleranzen zwischen Zigarette und Prüfeinheit ausbilden können und Fremdlicht an die Empfänger der Prüfeinheit leiten, werden mit Hilfe der Positioniereinheit unterdrückt bzw. vermieden. Die Prüfung der Zigaretten wird noch genauer.So it is possible to tolerate the length of the cigarettes at the Check the same in which the cigarettes, namely the ends of the cigarettes, flat and under light pressure of the test unit. Column that changes due to length tolerances can train between cigarette and test unit and direct extraneous light to the receivers of the test unit suppressed or avoided with the help of the positioning unit. The examination of the cigarettes becomes even more precise.

Bei der Vorrichtung sind den Zigaretten einer Prüfgruppe, vorzugsweise je zwei übereinanderliegenden Zigaretten, Empfänger zugeordnet, die sich als Einheit, bzw. als einheitliches Organ über den Bereich der Zigaretten erstrecken. Dadurch steht eine größere Aufnahmefläche für das aus den Zigaretten (seitlich) austretende Licht zur Verfügung. Bei den Empfängern handelt es sich um flächenförmige Silizium-Fotoelemente, die auch als Solarzellen bekannt sind. In the device, the cigarettes of a test group preferably two superimposed cigarettes, recipient assigned to itself as a unit, or as a unitary Extend organ over the area of cigarettes. This means a larger receiving area for that from the cigarettes (laterally) emerging light available. With the recipients are flat silicon photo elements that are also known as solar cells.

Bei der Prüfung wird so vorgegangen, daß während eines Prüfungstaktes zunächst die eine und danach die andere Zigarette mit dem Prüfstrahl (Licht) beaufschlagt wird. Der für beide Zigaretten gemeinsame, flächenförmige Empfänger wird demnach zuerst mit Licht der einen und danach der anderen Zigarette beaufschlagt.The test is carried out in such a way that during a Test cycle first one and then the other cigarette the test beam (light) is applied. The one for both cigarettes become common, sheet-like receivers therefore first with the light of one and then the other cigarette acted upon.

Die Prüfeinheit ist insgesamt quer zu den Prüfkanälen bzw. in Längsrichtung der Zigaretten taktweise bewegbar. Für den abwärts gerichteten Transport der Zigaretten nach einem Prüftakt wird die Prüfeinheit zurückgezogen, so daß die Zigaretten ungehindert bewegt werden können. Für den Prüftakt wird die Prüfeinheit an die Enden der Zigaretten heranbewegt.Overall, the test unit is transverse to the test channels or in The longitudinal direction of the cigarettes can be moved in cycles. For the downward transport of the cigarettes after a test cycle the test unit is withdrawn so that the cigarettes can be moved freely. For the test cycle, the Test unit moved to the ends of the cigarettes.

Die Prüfeinheit ist aus einzelnen Prüforganen zusammengesetzt, die je einer Zigarette bzw. einer Prüfgruppe derselben zugeordnet sind. Die im Grundriß U-förmigen Prüforgane, je mit den für eine Prüfgruppe erforderlichen Sensoren, sind nebeneinanderliegend zu einer Prüfeinheit zusammengesetzt, und zwar mit leicht lösbaren Verbindungsorganen. Dadurch ist die Montage der Prüfeinheit erleichtert. Des weiteren ist ein späteres Auswechseln, Reparieren und Reinigen einzelner Prüforgane möglich.The test unit is composed of individual test organs, each assigned to a cigarette or a test group of the same are. The U-shaped test organs in the floor plan, each with the for sensors required for a test group are located side by side assembled into a test unit, and with ease releasable connecting elements. This is the assembly of the test unit facilitated. Furthermore, a later replacement, Repair and cleaning of individual test organs possible.

Weitere Einzelheiten der Erfindung beziehen sich auf die Ausbildung der Prüforgane und deren Sensoren sowie der Prüfeinheit und deren Betätigung.Further details of the invention relate to the training the test organs and their sensors as well as the test unit and their operation.

Ausführungsbeispiele erfindungsgemäßer Prüfvorrichtungen werden nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnungen näher erläutert. Es zeigt:

Fig. 1
einen Ausschnitt eines Zigaretten-Magazins im Vertikalschnitt,
Fig. 2
einen Bereich einer Prüfebene innerhalb des Zigaretten-Magazins im Horizontalschnitt, bei stark vergrößertem Maßstab,
Fig. 3
eine Einzelheit einer Prüfvorrichtung, nämlich einen Abschnitt einer langgestreckten Prüfeinheit in Vorderansicht,
Fig. 4
einen Querschnitt zu der Einzelheit gemäß Fig. 3,
Fig. 5
einen Abschnitt der Prüfeinheit in perspektivischer Darstellung als Sprengzeichnung, in nochmals vergrößertem Maßstab,
Fig. 6
einen Bereich einer Prüfebene innerhalb des Zigaretten-Magazins im Horizontalschnitt, bei stark vergrößertem Maßstab nach einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung, und
Fig. 7
eine Einzelheit einer Prüfvorrichtung, nämlich einen Abschnitt einer langgestreckten Prüfeinheit.
Exemplary embodiments of test devices according to the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. It shows:
Fig. 1
a section of a cigarette magazine in vertical section,
Fig. 2
an area of a test level within the cigarette magazine in horizontal section, on a greatly enlarged scale,
Fig. 3
a detail of a test device, namely a portion of an elongated test unit in front view,
Fig. 4
3 shows a cross section to the detail according to FIG. 3,
Fig. 5
a section of the test unit in a perspective view as an exploded view, on a further enlarged scale,
Fig. 6
an area of a test level within the cigarette magazine in horizontal section, on a greatly enlarged scale according to a second embodiment of the invention, and
Fig. 7
a detail of a test device, namely a section of an elongated test unit.

Bei den in den Zeichnungen dargestellten Einzelheiten geht es um die Prüfung von Zigaretten 10 mit einem Filter 11 in bezug auf die korrekte Ausbildung von Endbereichen. Die Zigaretten 10 werden ungeordnet, aber in Parallelstellung ausgerichtet in ein Zigaretten-Magazin 12 eingegeben. Dieses entspricht im Grundaufbau etwa dem Zigaretten-Magazin gemäß EP-A-0 338 241. Innerhalb des Zigaretten-Magazins 12 durchlaufen die Zigaretten einen Prüfbereich 13, der an der breitesten Stelle innerhalb eines nach oben und unten konvergierenden Magazin-Gehäuses 14 angeordnet ist. Die geprüften und intakten Zigaretten 10 gelangen in einen Sammelraum 15 unterhalb des Prüfbereichs 13. Von hieraus werden die Zigaretten in aufrechte Magazin-Schächte 16 eingeführt. Am unteren Ende der in Gruppen formierten Magazin-Schächte 16 werden die Zigaretten 10 als Zigaretten-Gruppen entsprechend dem Inhalt einer Packung ausgeschoben.The details shown in the drawings go it is about testing cigarettes 10 with a filter 11 in regarding the correct formation of end areas. The Cigarettes 10 are disordered, but in parallel aligned in a cigarette magazine 12 entered. The basic structure of this corresponds approximately to the cigarette magazine according to EP-A-0 338 241. Within the cigarette magazine 12, the cigarettes pass through a test area 13, the the widest point within an up and down converging magazine housing 14 is arranged. The tested and intact cigarettes 10 get into one Collection room 15 below the test area 13. From here the cigarettes are placed in upright magazine slots 16 introduced. At the bottom of the grouped Magazine chutes 16, the cigarettes 10 as Cigarette groups according to the contents of one pack pushed out.

Der Prüfbereich 13 besteht ebenfalls aus einer Anzahl von parallel zueinander angeordneten aufrechten Schächten bzw. Prüfkanälen 17. Deren Breite ist geringfügig größer als der Durchmesser einer Zigarette, so daß innerhalb der Prüfkanäle 17 jeweils Zigaretten-Reihen 18 aus einzelnen, übereinanderliegenden Zigaretten gebildet sind. Die Zigaretten 10 bzw. Zigaretten-Reihen 18 werden innerhalb der Prüfkanäle 17 infolge des Eigengewichts nach unten bewegt. Die Prüfkanäle 17 sind durch stegartige Kanalwände 19 voneinander getrennt.The test area 13 also consists of a number of Upright shafts arranged parallel to each other or Test channels 17. Their width is slightly larger than that Diameter of a cigarette, so that within the test channels 17 each row of cigarettes 18 from individual, one above the other Cigarettes are formed. The cigarettes 10 or rows of cigarettes 18 are within the test channels 17 moved down due to its own weight. The Test channels 17 are separated from one another by web-like channel walls 19 Cut.

Die Zigaretten 10 werden im Bereich einer Prüfebene 20 des Prüfbereichs 13 überprüft. Während eines Prüftakts werden mehrere übereinanderliegende Zigaretten 10 in jedem Prüfkanal 17 überprüft. Diese Prüfgruppe 45 besteht im vorliegenden Fall aus zwei übereinanderliegenden Zigaretten 10. Die Anordnung ist so getroffen, daß die Zigaretten 10 innerhalb der Prüfkanäle 17 fixiert werden, damit die Prüfung während einer exakten Ruhestellung der Zigaretten 10 durchgeführt werden kann. Zu diesem Zweck sind unterhalb der Prüfebene 20 Halteorgane für die Zigaretten 10 in den Prüfkanälen 17 vorgesehen, und zwar langgestreckte Klemmorgane, nämlich Klemmfinger 21. Diese lagern in seitlichen Ausnehmungen der Kanalwände 19 und fixieren jeweils eine Zigarette 10 durch Andrücken an die gegenüberliegende Kanalwand 19. Dadurch ist auch der darüberliegende Teil der Zigaretten-Reihen 18 positioniert. The cigarettes 10 are in the area of a test level 20 of the Checked range 13. During a test cycle several superimposed cigarettes 10 in each test channel 17 checked. This test group 45 consists of The present case consists of two superimposed cigarettes 10. The arrangement is such that the cigarettes 10 be fixed within the test channels 17 so that the Check during an exact rest position of the cigarettes 10 can be performed. For this purpose are below the test level 20 holding members for the cigarettes 10 in the Test channels 17 provided, namely elongated Clamping elements, namely clamping fingers 21. These store in lateral recesses of the channel walls 19 and fix each a cigarette 10 by pressing on the opposite channel wall 19. This is also the part of the cigarette rows 18 positioned above.

Mit Abstand unterhalb der durch die Klemmfinger 21 gebildeten horizontalen Ebene ist ein bewegbares Stützorgan für die Zigaretten 10 angeordnet, nämlich ein sich quer durch den Prüfbereich 13 erstreckender Kamm 22 mit jedem Prüfkanal 17 zugeordneten Stegen 23. Der Kamm 22 ist als Einheit in horizontaler Ebene hin- und herverschiebbar. In der einen Position (Fig. 1) befinden sich die Stege 23 im Bereich der Prüfkanäle 17. Die sich oberhalb des Kamms 22 befindenden Zigaretten-Reihen 18 stützen sich auf den Stegen 23 ab. In dieser Stellung können unterhalb der Klemmfinger 21, also in einem von zwei freiliegenden Zigaretten 10 gebildeten Bereich, etwaige fehlerhafte Zigaretten 10 ausgestoßen werden durch im einzelnen nicht gezeigte Organe, die in Längsrichtung der Zigaretten wirken.At a distance below that formed by the clamping fingers 21 horizontal plane is a movable support member for the cigarettes 10 arranged, namely one across the comb 22 extending the test area 13 with each test channel 17 associated webs 23. The comb 22 is a unit Can be pushed back and forth in the horizontal plane. In the one position (Fig. 1) are the webs 23 in Area of the test channels 17. The above the comb 22 located cigarette rows 18 are based on the Web 23. In this position you can underneath the clamping fingers 21, in one of two exposed cigarettes 10 formed area, any defective cigarettes 10 are ejected by not shown in detail Organs that act in the longitudinal direction of the cigarettes.

Durch Verschiebung des Kamms 22 in die andere Position werden die Prüfkanäle 17 nach unten freigegeben. Die Stege 23 befinden sich dabei im Bereich der (Unterbrechungen aufweisenden) Kanalwände 19. Zwischen den Stegen 23 gebildete Zwischenräume liegen deckungsgleich innerhalb der Prüfkanäle 17. Die geprüften und intakten Zigaretten 10 können nun in den Sammelraum 17 fallen. Dabei sind die Prüfkanäle 17 nach unten über die Ebene des Kamms 22 hinaus verlängert durch entsprechend dimensionierte bzw. verlängerte Kanalwände 19.By moving the comb 22 to the other position the test channels 17 are released downwards. The bridges 23 are in the range of (showing interruptions) Channel walls 19. Formed between the webs 23 Spaces are congruent within the test channels 17. The tested and intact cigarettes 10 can now fall into the collecting room 17. Here are the test channels 17 extended down beyond the level of the ridge 22 through appropriately dimensioned or extended duct walls 19th

Die Zigaretten 10 werden in der Prüfebene 20 durch ein in besonderer Weise ausgebildetes Prüfaggregat in bezug auf die korrekte Ausbildung der Endbereiche überprüft. Das Prüfaggregat besteht bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig. 2 aus zwei Prüfeinheiten 24, 25, die in der Prüfebene 20 zu beiden Seiten des Zigaretten-Magazins 12 angeordnet sind. Die Prüfeinheiten 24, 25 bilden analog zu der Vorrichtung gemäß EP-A-0 338 241 aufrechte Vertiefungen bzw. Ausnehmungen 26. In diese aufrechten Ausnehmungen 26 treten die Zigaretten 10 bei der Abwärtsbewegung mit jeweils einem Endbereich ein. Dieser wird sodann während eines Prüftakts überprüft. The cigarettes 10 are in the test level 20 by an in specially designed testing unit in relation to checked the correct formation of the end areas. The testing unit exists in the embodiment according to FIG. 2 of two test units 24, 25, which are in test level 20 both sides of the cigarette magazine 12 are arranged. The test units 24, 25 form analogously to the device according to EP-A-0 338 241 upright depressions or recesses 26. In these upright recesses 26 enter the Cigarettes 10 with one downward movement End range. This is then during a test cycle checked.

Zur Prüfung der Zigaretten 10 sind jeder Zigarette 10 bzw. jedem Zigarettenende besondere Sensoren zugeordnet. Benachbart zu jeder Endfläche 27 der Zigaretten 10 befindet sich ein Sensor, und zwar ein Sender 28, 29. Dieser sendet einen Prüfstrahl, nämlich einen Lichtstrahl, in Längsrichtung in die zu prüfende Zigarette 10. Des weiteren sind den Zigaretten 10 zu beiden Seiten angeordnete Sensoren zugeordnet, die als Empfänger 30, 31 wirken. Diese sind in besonderer Weise ausgebildet und angeordnet. Es handelt sich dabei um flächen- bzw. plattenförmige, lichtempfindliche Sensoren, und zwar insbesondere um Silizium-Fotoelemente in Planartechnik. Diese empfangen Licht auf der gesamten Fläche, so daß ein großer Meßbereich zur Verfügung steht.To check the cigarettes 10, each cigarette 10 or special sensors are assigned to each cigarette end. Adjacent is to each end surface 27 of the cigarettes 10 a sensor, namely a transmitter 28, 29. This sends one Test beam, namely a light beam, in the longitudinal direction in the cigarette to be tested 10. Furthermore, the cigarettes Assigned to 10 sensors arranged on both sides, which act as receivers 30, 31. These are special Wise trained and arranged. It is about flat or plate-shaped, light-sensitive sensors, in particular around silicon photo elements in planar technology. These receive light on the entire surface, so that a large measuring range is available.

Eine weitere Besonderheit besteht darin, daß den beiden Zigaretten 10 der Prüfgruppe 45 ein gemeinsamer Empfänger 30, 31 jeweils an beiden gegenüberliegenden Seiten zur Verfügung steht. Die Prüfung wird dabei zweckmäßigerweise so ausgeführt, daß während eines Prüftakts die beiden Zigaretten 10 der Prüfgruppe 45 in aufeinanderfolgenden Schritten geprüft werden, so daß die Empfänger 30, 31 jeweils einer Zigarette zur Verfügung stehen. Dies führt zu einer besonders exakten Prüfung, nämlich der Unterscheidung zwischen noch als korrekt geltenden Zigaretten und fehlerhaften.Another peculiarity is that the two Cigarettes 10 of test group 45 a common recipient 30, 31 are available on both opposite sides stands. The test is conveniently so executed that during a test cycle the two cigarettes 10 of test group 45 in successive steps be checked so that the receivers 30, 31 each one Cigarette are available. This leads to a particularly exact examination, namely the distinction between still considered correct cigarettes and faulty.

Die Prüfeinheiten 24 und 25 sind konstruktiv in besonderer Weise gestaltet. An einem langgestreckten Träger 32, der hier wie ein ungleichmäßiges Doppel-T-Profil ausgebildet ist, sind einzelne Prüforgane 33 lösbar bzw. abnehmbar angebracht. Jeder Prüfgruppe 45 von (zwei) Zigaretten ist ein derartiges Prüforgan 33 zugeordnet. Eine der Anzahl der Prüfkanäle 17 entsprechende Anzahl von Prüforganen 33 ist demnach an jeder Prüfeinheit 24, 25 nebeneinander angeordnet.The test units 24 and 25 are structurally special Designed wisely. On an elongated support 32, the here formed like an uneven double T-profile is, individual test organs 33 are detachable or removable appropriate. Each test group is 45 of (two) cigarettes such a test organ 33 assigned. One of the number of Test channels 17 is the corresponding number of test organs 33 accordingly arranged next to each other on each test unit 24, 25.

Die Prüforgane 33 sind im Grundriß bzw. Querschnitt U-förmig ausgebildet. An einem Körper 34 sind auf der den Zigaretten 10 zugekehrten Seite zwei Schenkel 35, 36 angeordnet, die die Ausnehmung 26 seitlich begrenzen und sich somit neben den Enden der Zigaretten 10 erstrecken. Die Prüforgane 33 können aus einem gießfähigen, ausgehärteten Material, z. B. aus Kunststoff bestehen. Die Sensoren, nämlich Sender 28, 29 einerseits und Empfänger 30, 31 andererseits sind in das Prüforgan 33 eingebettet. Die beiden Sender 28, 29 befinden sich im Körper 34 und die beiden Empfänger 30, 31 mit einem Teilstück im Bereich des Körpers 34 und mit einem weiteren Teilstück im Bereich der Schenkel 35, 36. Das Material der Prüforgane 33 ist lichtdurchlässig, so daß Sender 28, 29 und/oder Empfänger 30, 31 mit einer Materialüberdeckung eingebettet sein können. Die Sensoren sind dadurch gegen mechanische Einflüsse und insbesondere gegen Verschmutzung geschützt, ohne daß die Wirksamkeit beeinträchtigt ist.The test organs 33 are in plan or cross section U-shaped. On a body 34 are on the Cigarettes 10 facing side two legs 35, 36 arranged which limit the recess 26 laterally and themselves thus extend next to the ends of the cigarettes 10. The Test organs 33 can be made from a pourable, hardened Material, e.g. B. consist of plastic. The sensors, namely transmitters 28, 29 on the one hand and receivers 30, 31 on the other hand, are embedded in the test device 33. The two transmitters 28, 29 are in the body 34 and the two receivers 30, 31 with a section in the area of Body 34 and with another section in the area of Legs 35, 36. The material of the test organs 33 is translucent, so that transmitter 28, 29 and / or receiver 30, 31 can be embedded with a material cover. The Sensors are therefore against mechanical influences and especially protected against pollution without the Effectiveness is impaired.

Jede Prüfeinheit 24, 25 ist mit einer der Anzahl der gleichzeitig zu prüfenden Prüfgruppen 45 entsprechenden Anzahl von Prüforganen 33 bestückt. Diese sind in einer Reihe nebeneinanderliegend am Träger 32 angebracht. Die Prüforgane 33 sind so bemessen, daß sie unter Berücksichtigung der Abstände der Zigaretten-Reihen 18 voneinander in Dichtlage nebeneinander formiert sind.Each test unit 24, 25 is one of the number of simultaneously test groups to be tested 45 corresponding number equipped by test organs 33. These are in a row attached side by side to the carrier 32. The inspection bodies 33 are dimensioned so that they are taken into account of the distances between the rows of cigarettes 18 in Sealing layer are formed side by side.

Die Prüforgane 33 sind mit dem Körper 34 in einer Vertiefung 37 des Trägers 32 positioniert. Die Prüforgane 33 sind durch lösbare Verbindungsmittel miteinander sowie mit dem Träger 32 verbunden, und zwar mit einem aufrechten Profilsteg 38 desselben. Zur Verbindung der Prüforgane 33 miteinander dienen U-Profile 39. Diese umfassen mit ihren Flanschen jeweils zwei aneinanderliegende Schenkel 35, 36 benachbarter Prüforgane 39. Die Schenkel 35, 36 sind zu diesem Zweck mit Ausnehmungen versehen, so daß die U-Profile 39 mit den freien Flächen der Schenkel 35, 36 bündig liegen. Die U-Profile 39 sind ihrerseits mit Haltemitteln an dem Träger 32, nämlich an dessen Profilsteg 38 befestigt. Es handelt sich dabei um Schrauben 40, die im Bereich einer Trennebene zwischen benachbarten Prüforganen 33 von der freien Seite der U-Profile 39 bis zum Profilsteg 38 verlaufen und in diesem mit Gewinde verankert sind. Die Schrauben 40 sind mit einem Senkkopf ausgebildet, so daß die den Kanalwänden 19 zugekehrten Flächen der U-Profile 39 glattflächig sind. Je zwei übereinanderliegende Schrauben 40 dienen zur Verankerung der U-Profile 39 am Profilsteg 38.The test organs 33 are in a recess with the body 34 37 of the carrier 32 positioned. The test organs 33 are by releasable connecting means with each other and with the Carrier 32 connected, with an upright profile web 38 of the same. For connecting the test organs 33 to one another serve U-profiles 39. These include with their Flanges each have two adjacent legs 35, 36 adjacent test organs 39. The legs 35, 36 are closed this purpose provided with recesses so that the U-profiles 39 with the free surfaces of the legs 35, 36 lie flush. The U-profiles 39 are in turn with holding means on the carrier 32, namely on its profile web 38 attached. These are screws 40 which are in the Area of a parting plane between neighboring test organs 33 from the free side of the U-profiles 39 to the profile web 38 run and are anchored in this with thread. The Screws 40 are formed with a countersunk head, so that the surfaces of the U-profiles 39 facing the channel walls 19 are smooth. Two screws one above the other 40 serve to anchor the U-profiles 39 on the profile web 38.

Auf der zu den Prüforganen 33 gegenüberliegenden Seite des Trägers 32 ist dieser mit einem in Längsrichtung verlaufenden Hohlraum 41 versehen. Dieser ist außen durch eine Abdeckung 42 verschlossen. Der kanalartige Hohlraum 41 kann elektrische Organe, so z. B. Leitungen zur Verbindung mit den zu den Sensoren 28..31 führenden, in den Körper 34 eingebetteten Leitungen dienen.On the opposite side of the test organs 33 Carrier 32 is this with a extending in the longitudinal direction Provided cavity 41. This is outside by one Cover 42 closed. The channel-like cavity 41 can electrical organs, e.g. B. lines for connection with the leading to the sensors 28..31, in the body 34 embedded lines.

Eine weitere Besonderheit besteht in der bewegbaren Anordnung der Prüfeinheiten 24, 25. Mindestens eine der beiden Prüfeinheiten, bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig. 2 die Prüfeinheit 25, ist in horizontaler Ebene bewegbar, und zwar quer zum Zigaretten-Magazin 12, also in Längsrichtung der Zigaretten 10. Zu diesem Zweck ist der Träger 32 über eine Verlängerung an beiden Enden mit Führungsstangen 43 verschiebbar in einem Teil des Magazin-Gehäuses 14 gelagert. Durch ein nicht gezeigtes Betätigungsorgan kann die Prüfeinheit 25 vom Zigaretten-Magazin abgehoben bzw. zurückgezogen werden, derart, daß die Enden der Zigaretten 10 freiliegen. Während dieser Stellung der Prüfeinheit 25 können die Zigaretten 10 in den Prüfkanälen 17 ungehindert nach unten bewegt werden. Während der Prüfung der Zigaretten 10 befindet sich die Prüfeinheit 25 in der Position gemäß Fig. 2 unter Anlage am Zigaretten-Magazin 12, wobei die Enden der Zigaretten 10 in die Ausnehmungen 26 eintreten.Another special feature is the movable arrangement of test units 24, 25. At least one of the two Test units, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 Test unit 25 is movable in the horizontal plane, and indeed across the cigarette magazine 12, that is, in the longitudinal direction of cigarettes 10. For this purpose the carrier 32 is over an extension at both ends with guide rods 43 slidable in part of the magazine housing 14 stored. By an actuator, not shown the test unit 25 is lifted from the cigarette magazine or withdrawn so that the ends of the cigarettes 10 exposed. During this position of the test unit 25 can the cigarettes 10 in the test channels 17 unhindered be moved down. While testing the cigarettes 10, the test unit 25 is in the position 2 in contact with the cigarette magazine 12, wherein the ends of the cigarettes 10 enter the recesses 26.

Die gegenüberliegende Prüfeinheit 24 kann in gleicher Weise verstellbar angeordnet sein. Bei dem vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel ist jedoch die Prüfeinheit 24 während des Betriebs der Vorrichtung unverändert in der Position am Zigaretten-Magazin 12 gehalten (Prüfstellung). Die Prüfeinheit 24 ist aber mit einem Ende in einem Drehlager 44 gehalten. Die Prüfeinheit 24 kann um das Drehlager 44 verschwenkt, also vom Zigaretten-Magazin 12 abgehoben werden. Das Schwenklager 44 ist seitlich bzw. am Ende des Trägers 32 angeordnet, so daß die Prüfeinheit 24 insgesamt vollständig vom Zigaretten-Magazin 12 zurückbewegt, nämlich geschwenkt werden kann, so daß alle Prüforgane 33 für Reinigungs- oder Reparaturzwecke freiliegen.The opposite test unit 24 can in the same way be adjustable. In the present embodiment is however the test unit 24 during the Operation of the device unchanged in the position on Cigarette magazine 12 held (test position). The test unit 24 is however with one end in a pivot bearing 44 held. The test unit 24 can rotate around the rotary bearing 44 pivoted, i.e. lifted off the cigarette magazine 12 will. The pivot bearing 44 is on the side or at the end of Carrier 32 arranged so that the test unit 24 in total completely moved back from the cigarette magazine 12, namely can be pivoted so that all test organs 33 for Cleaning or repair purposes are exposed.

Ein weiteres bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel des Prüfaggregats zeigen die Fig. 6 und 7. Hier ist nur eine Prüfeinheit 46 vorgesehen. Diese ist in der Prüfebene 20 zu einer Seite des Zigaretten-Magazins 12 bzw. der Prüfkanäle 17 angeordnet. Die Prüfeinheit 46 ist den filterlos ausgebildeten Endflächen 47 der Zigaretten 10 zugeordnet. Der Aufbau und die Funktionsweise der Prüfeinheit 46 entspricht den Prüfeinheiten 24, 25 des Ausführungsbeispiels der Fig. 2. Es werden daher dieselben Bezugsziffern verwendet.Another preferred embodiment of the test unit 6 and 7 show. Here is only one test unit 46 provided. This is to one side in test level 20 of the cigarette magazine 12 or the test channels 17. The test unit 46 is the filterless one End faces 47 of the cigarettes 10 assigned. The construction and the functioning of the test unit 46 corresponds to the test units 24, 25 of the embodiment of FIG. 2. It the same reference numbers are therefore used.

Gegenüberliegend zur Prüfeinheit 46, auf der anderen Seite des Zigaretten-Magazins 12 ist eine Positioniereinheit 49 angeordnet. Die Positioniereinheit 49 ist den mit Filtern 11 versehenen Endflächen 48 der Zigaretten 10 zugeordnet.Opposite test unit 46, on the other side of the cigarette magazine 12 is a positioning unit 49 arranged. The positioning unit 49 is the one with filters 11 provided end faces 48 of the cigarettes 10.

Die Positioniereinheit 49 weist mehrere mit Abstand zueinander angeordnete, elastisch beaufschlagbare Druckorgane 57 auf. Die Druckorgane 57 sind als Stößel 50 ausgebildet. Die Stößel 50 sind in Ausnehmungen 51 eines die Positioniereinheit 49 aufnehmenden Trägers 52 angeordnet. Die Stößel 50 wirken mit diesen zugeordneten Federn 53 zusammen und sorgen für eine elastische, individuelle Druckbeaufschlagung der Endflächen 48 der Zigaretten 10 einer Prüfgruppe 45. Die Stößel sind derart angeordnet, daß die Zigaretten 10 bzw. deren Endflächen 48 in Längsrichtung der Zigaretten 10 druckbeaufschlagbar sind. Die Längsmittelachsen der Zigaretten 10 und der diesen zugeordneten Stößel 50 fallen annähernd zusammen oder verlaufen annähernd parallel zueinander. Die Stößel 50 ragen durch seitliche Öffnungen 54 des Magazin-Gehäuses 14 in die Prüfkanäle 17 des Zigaretten-Magazins 12 und treffen so auf die Endflächen 48 der Zigaretten 10.The positioning unit 49 has several at a distance from one another arranged, elastically loadable pressure members 57 on. The pressure members 57 are designed as plungers 50. The Ram 50 are the positioning unit in recesses 51 49 receiving carrier 52 arranged. The plunger 50 cooperate with these associated springs 53 and ensure an elastic, individual pressurization the end faces 48 of the cigarettes 10 of a test group 45. The plungers are arranged such that the Cigarettes 10 or their end faces 48 in the longitudinal direction of the Cigarettes 10 can be pressurized. The longitudinal central axes the cigarettes 10 and the pestle assigned to them 50 approximately coincide or run approximately parallel to each other. The plunger 50 protrude through the side Openings 54 of the magazine housing 14 into the test channels 17 of the cigarette magazine 12 and thus hit the end faces 48 of the cigarettes 10.

Mit Hilfe der Positioniereinheit 49 ist es möglich, Längentoleranzen der Zigaretten 10 auszugleichen bzw. für die Prüfung der Zigaretten 10 Meßungenauigkeiten infolge der Längentoleranzen zu vermeiden. Bedingt durch den mittels der Druckorgane 57 bzw. Stößel 50 auf die Endflächen 48 der Zigaretten 10 ausgeübten Druck, liegen die Endflächen 47 flächig und unter Druck an der Prüfeinheit 46 an. Spalte zwischen Zigaretten 10 und Prüfeinheit 46 werden vermieden. Die Leitung von Fremdlicht zu den Empfängern 30, 31 der Prüfeinheit 46 wird infolge der Vermeidung der Spalte zwischen Zigaretten 10 und Prüfeinheit 46 unterdrückt. Dies gewährleistet eine genauere, von Längentoleranzen der Zigaretten 10 unabhängige Prüfung derselben.With the help of the positioning unit 49 it is possible to make length tolerances to compensate for the cigarettes 10 or for the Testing the cigarettes 10 measurement inaccuracies as a result of Avoid length tolerances. Due to the means of the pressure members 57 or plunger 50 on the end faces 48 of the Cigarettes 10 exerted pressure, the end faces 47 flat and under pressure on the test unit 46. column between cigarettes 10 and test unit 46 are avoided. The conduction of extraneous light to the receivers 30, 31 of the Test unit 46 is due to the avoidance of the column suppressed between cigarettes 10 and test unit 46. This ensures a more accurate, of length tolerances of the Cigarettes 10 independent testing of the same.

Korrespondierend zur Ausgestaltung der Prüfeinheit 46 ist die Anzahl der Stößel 50 auf die Anzahl der Prüfkanäle 17 abgestimmt. Pro Prüfkanal 17 sind entsprechend der Anzahl der Zigaretten 10 pro Prüfgruppe 45 Stößel 50 vorgesehen. In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel sind dies zwei Stößel 50 pro Prüfkanal 17 (Fig. 7), die übereinander und mit Abstand zueinander angeordnet sind.Corresponds to the configuration of the test unit 46 the number of plungers 50 to the number of test channels 17 Voted. There are 17 per test channel according to the number of cigarettes 10 per test group 45 plunger 50 are provided. In this embodiment, these are two plungers 50 each Test channel 17 (Fig. 7), one above the other and at a distance are arranged to each other.

Die Positioniereinheit 49 ist in horizontaler Ebene bewegbar, und zwar quer zum Zigaretten-Magazin 12, also in Längsrichtung der Zigaretten 10. Zu diesem Zweck ist der Träger 52 an beiden Seiten bzw. Enden mit Führungsstangen 55 verschiebbar in einem Teil des Magazin-Gehäuses 14 gelagert. Durch ein nicht dargestelltes Betätigungsmittel kann die Positioniereinheit 49 vom Zigaretten-Magazin 12 abgehoben bzw. zurückgezogen werden, derart, daß die Enden der Zigaretten 10 freiliegen. Die der Positioniereinheit 49 gegenüberliegende Prüfeinheit 46 ist in ihrer Position am Zigaretten-Magazin 12 gehalten. Sie ist in einem Drehlager 56 gelagert und kann demnach durch Verschwenken um das Drehlager 56 vom Zigaretten-Magazin 12 abgehoben werden.The positioning unit 49 can be moved in the horizontal plane, namely across the cigarette magazine 12, that is in the longitudinal direction of cigarettes 10. For this purpose the carrier 52 slidable on both sides or ends with guide rods 55 stored in part of the magazine housing 14. By an actuator, not shown, the Positioning unit 49 is lifted off the cigarette magazine 12 or withdrawn such that the ends of the cigarettes 10 exposed. The one opposite the positioning unit 49 Test unit 46 is in its position on the cigarette magazine 12 held. It is in a pivot bearing 56 stored and can therefore by pivoting around the pivot bearing 56 can be lifted off the cigarette magazine 12.

Claims (4)

  1. Device for testing the ends of cigarettes (10) in the region of vertical test ducts (17), in which individual cigarette rows (18) of superposed cigarettes (10), with their ends directed sideways, can in each case be moved from the top downwards, in particular in a cigarette magazine (12) of a packaging machine, a test unit (46) being arranged in the region of a testing level (20) on one side of the test ducts (17) and having sensors (28..31), namely transmitters (28, 29) and receivers (30, 31) for transmitting and receiving a test beam in the region of end faces (47) of a test group (45) of cigarettes (10) and of their adjacent side faces, characterized in that a positioning unit (49) for applying pressure elastically and individually to the cigarettes (10) in the longitudinal direction of these is arranged on a side of the test ducts (17) which is located opposite the test unit (46).
  2. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the positioning unit (49) has for each cigarette (10), in the region of the testing level (20), pressure members (57), in particular tappets (50), which are arranged at a distance from one another and to which pressure can be applied elastically, for each test group (45) the number of pressure members (57) being co-ordinated with the number of cigarettes (10) per test group (45).
  3. Device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pressure members (57) which are assigned to the cigarettes (10) to be tested and to which pressure is applied elastically bear with their tappets (50) on end faces (48) of filters (11) of the cigarettes (10).
  4. Device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the positioning unit (49) is mounted on guide rods (55) so as to be transversely movable, in such a way that the positioning unit (49) can be lifted off from the cigarette magazine (12).
EP96107154A 1993-02-02 1994-01-29 Device for checking cigarettes Expired - Lifetime EP0731024B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4302777 1993-02-02
DE4302777A DE4302777A1 (en) 1993-02-02 1993-02-02 Device for testing cigarettes
EP94906175A EP0681545B1 (en) 1993-02-02 1994-01-29 Device for verifying cigarettes

Related Parent Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94906175A Division EP0681545B1 (en) 1993-02-02 1994-01-29 Device for verifying cigarettes
EP94906175.8 Division 1994-01-29

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0731024A2 EP0731024A2 (en) 1996-09-11
EP0731024A3 EP0731024A3 (en) 1996-11-20
EP0731024B1 true EP0731024B1 (en) 1998-11-25

Family

ID=6479373

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94906175A Expired - Lifetime EP0681545B1 (en) 1993-02-02 1994-01-29 Device for verifying cigarettes
EP96107154A Expired - Lifetime EP0731024B1 (en) 1993-02-02 1994-01-29 Device for checking cigarettes

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP94906175A Expired - Lifetime EP0681545B1 (en) 1993-02-02 1994-01-29 Device for verifying cigarettes

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US5675144A (en)
EP (2) EP0681545B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH08506308A (en)
BR (1) BR9405821A (en)
DE (3) DE4302777A1 (en)
WO (1) WO1994018074A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4424045A1 (en) * 1994-07-11 1996-01-18 Focke & Co Testing cigarettes regarding correct formation of end regions esp. correct filling of tobacco
DE19641988A1 (en) * 1996-10-11 1998-04-16 Focke & Co Packaging machine with optical monitoring devices
DE19753333A1 (en) 1997-12-02 1999-06-10 Focke & Co Procedure for checking the completeness of cigarette groups and the filling of the cigarettes
US6169600B1 (en) 1998-11-20 2001-01-02 Acuity Imaging, Llc Cylindrical object surface inspection system
ITBO20080031A1 (en) * 2008-01-21 2009-07-22 Gd Spa UNIT FOR OPTICAL CONTROL OF EXTENDED TOBACCO FIELD ITEMS.
PL233110B1 (en) * 2014-10-14 2019-09-30 Int Tobacco Machinery Poland Spolka Z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnoscia A unit protecting bar-like elements, in particular bars and/or endless shaft for the measuring head used in the tobacco industry equipment and appropriate measuring head
WO2020092245A1 (en) * 2018-10-29 2020-05-07 Zorday IP, LLC Network-enabled electronic cigarette

Family Cites Families (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4486098A (en) * 1982-02-23 1984-12-04 Hauni-Werke Korber & Co. Kg Method and apparatus for testing the ends of cigarettes or the like
DE3407168A1 (en) * 1984-02-28 1985-08-29 Focke & Co, 2810 Verden DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING CIGARETTE GROUPS
DE3620735A1 (en) * 1986-06-20 1987-12-23 Focke & Co METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISCONNECTING DEFECTIVE CIGARETTES IN CONNECTION WITH A CIGARETTE PACKING MACHINE
GB8618639D0 (en) * 1986-07-30 1986-09-10 Molins Plc Cigarette ends testing
DE3628088A1 (en) * 1986-08-19 1988-02-25 Bat Cigarettenfab Gmbh DEVICE FOR THE OPTICAL INSPECTION OF THE SURFACE OF ROD-SHAPED SMOKE ARTICLES AND / OR FILTER RODS FOR THE TOBACCO INDUSTRY
DE3640491A1 (en) * 1986-11-27 1988-06-09 Focke & Co PACKING MACHINE FOR CIGARETTES
GB2202628A (en) * 1987-03-17 1988-09-28 Molins Plc Cigarette segregating apparatus
DE3725366A1 (en) * 1987-07-31 1989-02-09 Hauni Werke Koerber & Co Kg DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE DENSITY OF A STRING OF TOBACCO
DE3729213A1 (en) * 1987-09-02 1989-03-16 Focke & Co DEVICE FOR CHECKING CIGARETTES AND EXCEPTIONALLY FAULTY CIGARETTES
DE3812689A1 (en) * 1988-04-16 1989-11-02 Focke & Co DEVICE FOR CHECKING CIGARETTES
IT1220409B (en) * 1988-06-29 1990-06-15 Gd Spa METHOD FOR THE CONTROL OF END OF CIGARETTES ARRANGED IN CLUSTER
DE3822520A1 (en) * 1988-07-04 1990-01-18 Focke & Co METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CHECKING CIGARETTES
IT1233298B (en) * 1989-01-13 1992-03-26 Gd Spa SYSTEM FOR THE CONTROL OF END OF CIGARETTE GROUPS
BR9000404A (en) * 1990-01-31 1991-10-08 Philip Morris Marketing Sa OPTICAL DETECTION SYSTEM
IT1246008B (en) * 1991-06-06 1994-11-07 Gd Spa METHOD AND DEVICE FOR THE CONTROL OF THE EXTERNAL INTEGRITY OF CIGARETTES.
EP0553699A1 (en) * 1992-01-30 1993-08-04 Hauni Maschinenbau Aktiengesellschaft Apparatus for testing the ends of cigarettes

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE4302777A1 (en) 1994-08-04
BR9405821A (en) 1995-12-26
DE59401267D1 (en) 1997-01-23
EP0681545B1 (en) 1996-12-11
US5675144A (en) 1997-10-07
EP0681545A1 (en) 1995-11-15
DE59407353D1 (en) 1999-01-07
WO1994018074A1 (en) 1994-08-18
EP0731024A2 (en) 1996-09-11
JPH08506308A (en) 1996-07-09
EP0731024A3 (en) 1996-11-20

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