EP2591686B1 - Filter production device for the tobacco processing industry - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a filter manufacturing machine of the tobacco processing industry comprising a filter rod machine and a filter tow preparation machine or a filter segment assembling machine for multi-segment filters.

Filter manufacturing machines are well known. For example, this describes EP 1 625 799 B1 a filter manufacturing machine of the tobacco processing industry, in which a filter rod machine and a filter tow preparation machine are connected to each other to provide the filter manufacturing machine as a whole. Here, filter tow is withdrawn from a filter towball, processed in the filter preparation machine, for example, stretched and sprayed with triacetin, to be subsequently transferred to the filter rod machine and there to form a filter strand, which is for example coated with a wrapping material. At the end, finally, corresponding filter rods from the filter strand cut to length.

Filter production machines are also known by means of which multi-segment filters can be produced. For this purpose, for example, on the EP 1 427 299 B1 referenced in which by means of several independent functional units which are designed as modules and which together form a Filtersegmentzusammenstellmaschine or a part of the Filterherstellmaschinen, filter segments are assembled, which are promoted in the compilation queraxial and then transferred with a transfer device in a longitudinal axial conveying movement be transferred to a strand of a stranding machine. In the stranding machine, the strand is then guided in the longitudinal axial conveying direction and wrapped with a wrapping material in order subsequently to cut off corresponding filter rods. The multi-segment filter production according to EP 1 427 299 B1 is very flexible, which in the filter manufacturing machine according to the EP 1 625 799 B1 only conditionally.

Out DE 10 2007 057 396 A1 a device for processing at least two filter tows is known. This includes independent functional units that can be exchanged.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to make known Filterherstellmaschinen even more flexible, with the production of one type of filter can be quickly changed to another type of filter.

This problem is solved by a Filterherstellmaschine the A tobacco processing industry comprising a filter rod machine and a filter tow preparation machine or filter segment assembling machine for multi-segment filters, wherein an insertion device is provided mounted between the filter rod machine and the filter tow preparation machine or the filter strand assembling machine and the filter segment assembling machine, wherein the insertion device comprises a supply unit and a filter unit Process unit includes, wherein the process unit is detachably connectable to the supply unit.

By this innovative measure, the filter production is even more flexible than before possible, since the filter material can be edited very variably or processed by the insertion device. By providing a slide-in device, various processing or conditioning processes can also be provided, whereby a different type of processing or processing is made possible by exchanging the respective process unit with another process unit. In this case, it is also possible to change very quickly from one filter type production to another type of filter type, as a result of which the filter change can be designed very efficiently.

For example, in the manufacture of filters made of filter tow material, that is to say in a filter manufacturing machine comprising a filter rod making machine and the filter rod processing machine, an insertion device may be provided between the filter wire preparation machine and the filter rod machine having a processing unit which introduces a flavored thread in the longitudinal axial conveying direction of the filter tow material into the filter cloth material ,

For example, to produce another filter, ie a filter without flavor thread, for example with a filter made of filter tow into which a capsule filled with liquid is introduced, a process unit can be introduced which comprises a capsule insert. Then only the process unit needs to be replaced. The supply unit may remain between the filter rod machine and the filter fabric preparation machine. What exact measures in this exchange of the process unit are to be made, will be described in more detail below. At a filter manufacturing machine comprising a filter rod machine and a filter segment assembling machine, there may be provided an insertion device having a processing unit by means of which, for example, granules can be filled into a gap between filter segments which are longitudinally conveyed.

In the context of the invention, longitudinal axial conveying means, in particular, a delivery along a longitudinal axis of the filter to be produced.

Preferably, the filter rod machine is connected to the insertion device on one side of the insertion device and the filter tow preparation machine or the filter segment assembly machine is connected to the insertion device on the opposite side to the one side of the insertion device. It is thus preferably a linear arrangement of the elements of the filter rod machine, comprising in the conveying direction first the filter tow preparation machine or the Filtersegmentzusammenstellmaschine, then the insertion device and subsequently the filter rod machine.

The filter production machine is particularly preferred if it has an operating side and a rear side, wherein the supply unit is aligned to the rear side and the process unit to the operating side. The operating side is opposite to the back. In this case, an exchange of the process unit is particularly easy, whereas the supply unit in the filter manufacturing machine can remain connected to the other machines. Particularly preferably, the supply unit is arranged in alignment with the rear side of the filter production machine. Further Preferably, the process unit is arranged to the operating side in alignment with the operating side of the filter manufacturing machine.

Preferably, the process unit is exchangeable from the operating side with another process unit. For this purpose, for example, the process unit of the supply unit and optionally arranged on the sides of the machines, so downstream in the conveying direction filter rod machine and upstream arranged filter carving machine or the Filtersegmentzusammenstellmaschine be removed and pulled out to the operator side.

The supply unit preferably provides interfaces for supplying the process unit, the interfaces having an electrical connection, a compressed air connection, a coolant connection and / or a control connection. As a result, the connection of the process unit with the supply unit is very efficient and fast, so that all desired processes are made possible with little effort, in particular, the corresponding assembly of the process unit is then very quickly possible. For this purpose, it can be provided, for example, that the process unit comprises electrical cables which are permanently arranged in the process unit, by means of which then electrical connections for the supply unit can be implemented quickly and easily. In this case, the corresponding cables can not be lost. Thus, the cables are always where they are needed. Accordingly compressed air hoses or a compressed air hose, a coolant connection and / or control technical connections, such as a bus system cable or safety-related connections can be provided, in particular the corresponding hoses or cables can be permanently stored in the process unit.

Preferably, the respective process unit is coded, so that when connecting the process unit via the tax technical connections or a tax technical connection, the coding can be sent to the machine control, so that the machine control can automatically provide an initialization process for the filter machine with this special process unit, so that automatically the processes that are possible with the process unit can be performed. The coding may alternatively or additionally provide for the supply unit to provide the correct supply to the process unit, for example to set a predefinable pressure, to send predefinable control signals and / or to provide predefinable voltages for supplying motors.

Preferably, the supply unit has received a cabinet. By providing a complete cabinet, which in particular also completely protected, i. is provided in particular with outer walls, a very secure connection option and a very secure interchangeability of the process unit or the process units is possible.

Preferably, a supplementary switch cabinet is accommodated in the process unit. The supplementary control cabinet is used to supply and control drives and actuators, which are accommodated in the process unit, with electrical voltage. In addition, for example, pumps can be controlled via this. In addition, a sensor and / or a valve control can be controlled or supplied by the supplementary control cabinet. This has the advantage that in the base cabinet, ie the control cabinet, which is assigned to the supply unit, only basic functionality must be given, whereas the supplementary control cabinet, which is included in the process unit, may be specially adapted to the processes to be carried out. Thus, starting from the supply unit, a control function and a basic supply of the process unit to take place, whereas the actuators, motors, valves or valve controls and / or the sensors are controlled via the supplementary cabinet. The control cabinet, which is included in the supply unit, usually takes over the communication with the filter manufacturing machine.

It is particularly preferred if the supplementary switch cabinet is arranged outstanding on the side opposite the operating side from the process unit. Particularly preferably, the supplementary control cabinet is in the assembled state, i. in the state in which the process unit is mounted with the supply unit, arranged or accessible on the back of the supply unit, so that, for example, electrical connections from the control cabinet to the supplementary control cabinet by an operator can be made very easily. This saves considerable time during assembly.

The process unit is preferably provided or provided with means for processing a longitudinally axially conveyed filter strand or longitudinally axially conveyed filter segments.

Preferably, when the process unit has a vertical partition that separates an operating area and a service area, it is possible to efficiently prevent the elements of the service area from becoming contaminated when the process unit is stored away from the filter-making machine. The partition wall is preferably arranged parallel to the rear side or operating side.

A particularly simple and efficient adjustment of the process unit with the supply unit is possible if the supply unit has a horizontal base plate on which the process unit is arranged lying on top.

Preferably, for mounting the process unit to the supply unit, the horizontal base plate of the supply unit and / or a horizontal base plate of the process unit on the side facing the other unit provided with an inclined plane which is in direct operative connection with a support element of the other unit. The immediate operative connection means, in particular, that during assembly and preferably also in the assembled state, the support element rests on the inclined plane, or this touches. By "slated plane" may in particular also be understood a mounting lamp. This has the advantage of a simplified installation of the supply unit with the process unit. In addition, this serves in particular to lift, for example, a transport roller, for example, the process unit, which is used for easy transport of the process unit on the floor of a production hall, after assembly from the ground, so that an exact positioning of the process unit to the supply unit is possible.

Such exact positioning is also promoted by the fact that a guide rail is provided laterally on at least one side wall of the supply unit or the process unit. In addition, it is also possible, for example, for a receiving bolt to be provided on the supply unit at a location which is or is aligned with the process unit and is complementary in shape to a receiving trough of a process unit. Of course, this can also be provided the other way around, ie a receiving bolt can be provided on the process unit, specifically aligned or arranged to the supply unit, which then fits into a receptacle of the supply unit in the mounted state.

An assembly of a process unit is particularly safe if at least one transfer device which can be attached to the supply unit and / or the process unit is provided for mounting the process unit to the supply unit, by means of which the process unit can be moved to the supply unit. These may be, for example, roller rails on which the process unit can be moved in the direction of the supply unit in a sliding manner, with corresponding guides preferably being provided.

Preferably, the process unit is at least for the operator side out.

Furthermore, preferably, the supply unit and / or the process unit are designed as modules, wherein in particular the process unit is designed as a module. As a result, a very fast and efficient interchangeability of process units is possible. In this case, the process unit is preferably a module or the supply unit is a module.

The filter manufacturing machine becomes even more variable when the process unit has a base frame, wherein at least one modular functional unit can be mounted or mounted on the base frame. As a result, the process unit itself can be changed very quickly. For example, a modular functional unit can be provided, which has filter plate conveying rollers mounted on a plate, supplemented by an embossing device with a subsequent drying section. Another modular functional unit may be a spray chamber mounted on a plate be.

Preferably, the mounting plates or functional plates are designed with a same width, so that they can be easily mounted one above the other on the base frame in a simple manner. The process unit is particularly simple and efficient if a uniform mounting grid dimension is provided for mounting the functional units on the base frame. For this purpose, for example, be provided at the sides of the base frame at regular intervals screw or holes, by means of which an efficient screw connection of the respective functional unit with the base frame is possible. So that a safe assembly and disassembly of functional units is possible, a height-adjustable element, for example a spindle, is preferably provided, which acts in each case on the function unit or mounting plate of the functional unit arranged at the bottom.

If the supply unit and / or the process unit are designed as interconnectable cabinets, a particularly rapid assembly of the insertion device in the Filterherstellmaschine is possible and in particular a fast assembly of the process unit to the supply unit and possibly the downstream and upstream machines possible.

Preferably, the process unit has an identification feature, in particular a coding, by means of which the supply unit provides for unambiguous recognition of the process unit and a corresponding activation of the process unit. Such an identification feature can be, for example, an RFID transponder which is provided in the process unit. A provided in the supply unit RFID reading device can then read according to the RFID transponder of the process unit and By means of this readout it can be precisely recognized which process unit is present. Alternatively, of course, other recognition features may be provided, such as a bar code, which is detected by means of a camera, which is arranged for example in the supply unit, and is evaluated accordingly or other conventional coding. It is particularly preferred if the respective functional units of the respective process unit are also each provided with a corresponding identification feature, such as an RFID transponder or a barcode or the like. In this case, the supply unit then knows which functions, which actuators, which valves, etc., are present in the process unit and can control them accordingly or supply them with the necessary voltages. Incidentally, an electromechanical contacting may also be provided as a distinguishing feature, for example by electrically conductive pins, which are arranged differently depending on the process unit and thus contact corresponding contact surfaces in the supply unit in the mounted state so as to provide a readout possibility or an exact assignment of the Process unit in the supply unit or in the stranding machine.

It can also be provided not only one insertion device, but two or more insertion devices, which are then arranged corresponding to one behind the other and are all arranged between the Filtertowaufbereitungsmaschine or the Filtersegmentzusammenstellmaschine and the filter rod machine. By providing a kind of modular system with matched lengths and joints, a quick installation and interchangeability of the corresponding insertion device or insertion devices is possible.

In the context of the invention, the supply unit of the insertion device includes the elements that is necessary to supply the process unit or preferably each possible process unit, namely the supply of compressed air, the supply of electrical energy, the supply of electronics, or via a bus, the Supply of cooling liquid or a cooling medium and optionally further elements for supplying the process unit. For this purpose, the supply unit is preferably modular. This has for connection with the respective process units or the respective process unit corresponding connection or slots.

The bus or the I / O interface is preferably coded, so that in particular the supply unit recognizes which process unit is connected to the supply unit and the correct initialization and supply software is started. Accordingly, the connection cables are arranged where they are needed, namely preferably at the corresponding interfaces of the process unit. Alternatively, the cables can also be provided in or on the control cabinet. In this case, however, if necessary, many cables would have to be provided in order to be able to supply all possible process units. The then each unused cables are stored appropriately secured in or on the cabinet.

A control cabinet in the context of the invention comprises elements for power supply for the safety technology, corresponding control units, a bus system, a connection to the machine control and possibly also elements for a water cooling or a control device for a cooling device or a compressed air control device. The proposed cabinet is preferably provided closable in the supply unit.

If, for example, no other functions are to be fulfilled than those functions which are provided by means of the filter fabric preparation machine or the filter segment assembly machine and the filter rod machine, a process unit can also be provided which exclusively continues to transport the filter material or the assembled filter segments longitudinally without any further processing or editing happens.

As additional functionality in the process unit, the insertion of capsules may be mentioned, or the threading of a thread in Filtertow. In this case, corresponding coils and changing devices can be integrated into the process unit. It can be interspersed with carbon granules. The filter tow can be dyed or flavored. Finally, another wrapping paper can be wrapped around the filter material to provide two wrapping materials at the end of the filter strand or cut-to-length filter.

Preferably, at least two insertion devices are arranged one behind the other in the conveying direction of a filter strand to be conveyed in the filter rod machine.

Preferably, a supply unit or a process unit is provided for use in a filter production machine according to the invention.

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 of the invention may satisfy individual features or a combination of several features.

Fig. 1

schematisch eine Draufsicht auf eine erfindungsgemäße Filterherstellmaschine,

Fig. 2

schematisch eine Ansicht einer weiteren erfindungsgemäßen Filterherstellmaschine,

Fig. 3

schematisch eine dreidimensionale Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Einschubvorrichtung in zusammengebautem Zustand,

Fig. 4

die Einschubvorrichtung aus Fig. 3 in auseinandergezogenem Zustand,

Fig. 5a

eine schematische teilweise geöffnete Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Versorgungseinheit,

Fig. 5b

eine schematisch dreidimensional und offen dargestellte erfindungsgemäße Prozesseinheit,

Fig. 6

schematisch offen dargestellte Verbindungen einer Prozesseinheit mit der Versorgungseinheit,

Fig. 7

schematisch in einer dreidimensionalen Darstellung eine weitere erfindungsgemäße Einschubvorrichtung in zusammengebautem Zustand,

Fig. 8a

dreidimensional und schematisch die Versorgungseinheit aus Fig. 7,

Fig. 8b

die Prozesseinheit aus Fig. 7 in schematischer dreidimensionaler Darstellung,

Fig. 9a

schematisch in einer dreidimensionalen schematischen Darstellung eine weitere erfindungsgemäße Versorgungseinheit,

Fig. 9b

in einer schematischen dreidimensionalen Darstellung eine zu Fig. 9a gehörige Prozesseinheit,

Fig. 10

schematisch dreidimensional eine weitere erfindungsgemäße Einschubvorrichtung in zusammengestellter Form bei der Montage,

Fig. 11a

schematisch in dreidimensionaler Darstellung die Versorgungseinheit aus Fig. 10,

Fig. 11b

schematisch in einer dreidimensionalen Darstellung eine erfindungsgemäße Prozesseinheit, die gerade transportiert wird und derjenigen aus Fig. 10 entspricht,

Fig. 12

schematisch in einer dreidimensionalen Darstellung eine Einschubvorrichtung in auseinandergezogenem Zustand,

Fig. 13

eine schematische Schnittdarstellung eines Ausschnitts einer erfindungsgemäßen Einschubvorrichtung in montiertem Zustand und

Fig. 14

eine schematische dreidimensionale Darstellung einer Prozesseinheit mit modularen Funktionseinheiten.

The invention will be described below without limiting the general inventive idea by means of embodiments with reference to the drawings, reference being expressly made to the drawings with respect to all in the text unspecified details of the invention. Show it:

Fig. 1

1 is a schematic plan view of a filter manufacturing machine according to the invention;

Fig. 2

1 is a schematic view of another filter manufacturing machine according to the invention;

Fig. 3

3 is a schematic representation of a three-dimensional representation of an insertion device according to the invention in the assembled state,

Fig. 4

the insertion device Fig. 3 in an exploded state,

Fig. 5a

a schematic partially opened view of a supply unit according to the invention,

Fig. 5b

a process unit according to the invention shown schematically in three dimensions and open,

Fig. 6

schematically open connections of a process unit with the supply unit,

Fig. 7

schematically in a three-dimensional representation another insertion device according to the invention in the assembled state,

Fig. 8a

three-dimensional and schematic of the supply unit Fig. 7 .

Fig. 8b

the process unit Fig. 7 in a schematic three-dimensional representation,

Fig. 9a

schematically in a three-dimensional schematic representation of another supply unit according to the invention,

Fig. 9b

in a schematic three-dimensional representation one to Fig. 9a associated process unit,

Fig. 10

schematically three-dimensionally another insertion device according to the invention in assembled form during assembly,

Fig. 11a

schematically in three-dimensional representation of the supply unit Fig. 10 .

Fig. 11b

schematically in a three-dimensional representation of a process unit according to the invention, which is being transported and those of Fig. 10 corresponds,

Fig. 12

schematically in a three-dimensional representation of an insertion device in an exploded state,

Fig. 13

a schematic sectional view of a section of an insertion device according to the invention in the assembled state and

Fig. 14

a schematic three-dimensional representation of a process unit with modular functional units.

In the drawings, the same or similar elements and / or parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so that apart from a new idea each.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic plan view of a filter manufacturing machine according to the invention, wherein in the conveying direction 100, a filter tow preparation machine 20, a slide-in device 30 and then a filter rod machine 40 are arranged one behind the other. The arrangement is in this embodiment consecutively aligned or behind one another in a line. In the filter tow preparation machine 20, filter tow which is drawn off from a filter towbale 10 is prepared, for example stretched, pulled apart and sprayed with triacetin, in order subsequently to be transferred through an inlet funnel 41 of the filter rod machine 40, which is then followed by a formatting device 42. By inserting device 30 further processing steps can now be made. It is also possible to carry out processing steps on the filter tow. These are explained below.

In this embodiment according to the Fig. 1 For example, a flavored yarn, ie, an aroma yarn 33, which is directed via a roller 34, is introduced into the filter tow 11 in order to provide, for example, a specific flavor of the cut filter rods. These processing or conditioning processes take place in the process unit 32 of the insertion device 30. The process unit 32 is arranged flush with the operating side 21, wherein the flush with the other machines, namely in this case, the filter tow preparation machine 20 and / or the filter rod machine 40 is provided. To the back 22, a supply unit 31 is provided, by means of which, for example, the control of the rotation of the roller 34 and the power supply of the drive of the roller 34 is provided. In addition, a drive of a thread spindle that is not in Fig. 1 is shown to be provided to provide a corresponding supply of flavoring thread 33 to be processed. It may also be provided a thread changing station, by means of which a transition from one thread spindle to another thread spindle with a connection of an end piece is provided with an initial piece to allow automatic and uninterrupted operation.

The filter rod device 40 is connected to the insertion device 30 at the first side 91 and the filter tow preparation machine 20 is connected to the insertion device 30 at the second side 92. The first side 91 and the second side 92 are opposite each other.

It is now according to the invention that the insertion device 30 serves to very efficiently and variably filter material and in this case the filter material to prepare or process, in particular on the usual functionalities further functionalities should also be possible. For this purpose, it is particularly preferred that the process unit 32 can be removed with little effort and another process unit can be introduced. The supply unit 31 meanwhile remains mounted between the machines. For example, another process unit 32 may be one in which liquid filled capsules are placed in a filter strand. For this case, for example, could be provided on the one hand an insertion device and upstream of the insertion device, an inlet funnel 41, which then the inlet funnel 41, like this one in Fig. 1 is provided in the Filterstrangbildevorrichtung replaced. The in Fig. 1 provided inlet funnel 41 is then removed there. The format device 42 is then correspondingly extended so that it extends into the process unit 32.

Preferably, a treatment device, a processing device and / or a further device, such as a sub-format, in the insertion device and in particular the process unit be mounted and in another machine, such as the filter rod machine 40 and / or the filter tow preparation machine 20 or the Filtersegmentherstellmaschine 50 or rich protrude.

Fig. 2 shows an alternative filter manufacturing machine according to the invention comprising a filter rod machine 40 and a filter segment assembly machine 50. Between these two machines 40 and 50, a slide-in device 30 is provided. Fig. 2 shows the Filterherstellmaschine in a schematic front view.

By means of the filter segment assembling machine 50, filter segments are assembled in a transverse conveying method, ie a method in which the corresponding filter segments are conveyed transversely, in which case three different soft filter segments and two different hard filter segments are arranged longitudinally axially one behind the other in the assembled filter segments or groups of filter segments become. For this purpose, independent functional units, which are designed as a module, are provided, in this case five units, with three soft element units 51, 53 and 55 being provided and two hard element units, namely 52 and 54. It is further a power supply 56 for the independent functional units 51 to 55 is provided. The power supply 56 also supplies a transfer device 57, which is arranged on the last soft element unit 55. For more detailed function of this filter assembling machine, for example EP 1 427 299 B1 In contrast to the disclosure of the above-mentioned European patent specification in this embodiment, a gap or two gaps can be left in each group of filter segments which have been assembled and are conveyed correspondingly cross-axially, as desired. However, it is also possible to compile the filter segments without gaps.

In the transfer device 57 corresponding conveyor drums 58 are provided, a turning drum 59, which converts the promotion of a transverse axial promotion in a longitudinal axial promotion and finally transfers the group of filter segments in an insertion drum 60, which emits the groups of filter segments in a longitudinally axially funded strand. As mentioned above, the longitudinally axially conveyed strand has, for example, gaps and passes in the longitudinal axial conveying direction into the insertion device 30 and there specifically into the process unit 32. In the process unit or the supply unit 31, a sub-format 35 is provided which is U-shaped in cross-section is designed to guide and convey the transferred longitudinally axially conveyed groups of filter segments. In the insertion device 30, a granulate filling device 38 is now provided, for example, by means of which granules, for example coal active filter granules, can be introduced into the gaps. In addition, a reel 36 with wrapping material 37 is provided in the insertion device 30, which serves for wrapping the filter material or the filter segments, which are conveyed as a strand. This filter material is for example as additional Enveloping material is provided, which is wrapped around the filter strand in addition to the usual filter wrapping material. The usual wrapping material, which is not shown, is usually stored on a bobbin holder 43 of the filter rod machine in reels and correspondingly wound in the formatting device 42 around the filter strand. Thus, in this embodiment, two wrapping materials are wrapped around the filter strand. Other functionalities may also be provided here.

The dashed line between the turning drum 59 and the inserting drum 60 serves to illustrate that the conveyance of the filter segments from a transverse axial conveyance there into a longitudinal axial conveyance.

Fig. 3 schematically shows in a three-dimensional representation of an insertion device 30 according to the invention with a supply unit 31 and a process unit 32. It can be seen that the insertion device 30 is in the form of two connected cabinet modules. Corresponding housings are provided which surround the supply unit 31 and the process unit 32. The housings have side walls 64 and 65 and a rear side, not shown, in the supply unit 31 and on the operating side 21, a protection 66 with a viewing window 67 is provided in the process unit 32. The protection 66 and the viewing window 67 may for example be designed as doors and in particular be swung. The supply unit 31 has a base plate 63 which extends below the process unit 32. The supply unit 31 is mounted on feet 61 on the ground. The process unit 32 has at its bottom rollers 62 for better transport in the assembled position, as in Fig. 3 is shown on. The supply unit 31 and the process unit 32 are fixed to each other on the mounting member 68. In this embodiment, a very simple alignment of the process unit 32 with the supply unit 31 is possible because the relative heights to each other by the common base plate 63 need not be particularly adjusted.

Fig. 4 shows the insertion device 30 from Fig. 3 in unmounted condition. In order to move the process unit 32 away from the supply unit 31, firstly rolling grooves 70 and 70 'are provided, by means of which the process unit 32 can be moved away from the supply unit 31. In addition, roller rails 71 and 71 'are provided, which are tilted slightly to the position of the base plate 63 in order to provide a sloping ramp which slopes downwards in the direction of the supply unit 31. So that the process unit 32 does not move uncontrolled, corresponding brake elements are provided below the base plate of the process unit 32. To allow for the sloping ramp, the feet 61 'are provided slightly shorter than the feet 61. The roller rails 71 and 71 'are attached to the front side and the operating side of the base plate 63.

The precipitation of the roller rails 71 and 71 'is 1% to 2%. The deceleration of the process unit 32 may be provided for example by resilient plastic elements.

Fig. 5a ) schematically shows a three-dimensional representation of the supply unit 31 Fig. 4 in which, however, a side wall 64 has been removed. It can be seen that a control cabinet 76 is provided in the supply unit 31, which provides corresponding connection bars 77, 77 'and 77 "for the safe connection of lines or cables.

Fig. 5b ) shows schematically in a three-dimensional representation a process unit 32 in which a side wall 65 has been removed. It can be seen that the process unit 32 is divided into an operating area 74 and a service area 75. The separation is effected by a vertical partition wall 72. The other functional elements provided in the process unit 32 are not shown. These may be motors for driving drums or rollers, which may for example be mounted on the dividing wall 72 and extend into the supply area 75, the corresponding axis of rotation passing through the dividing wall 72 and then placing the drums or rollers in the operating area 74 are. It is also possible to provide a format device in the operating region 74, a granule feeding device, a yarn feeding device and a capsule-introducing device. The operating area 74 can also be used as a storage container, for example to receive bobbins or to receive a bobbin changer.

In addition, as in Fig. 5b ), a holder for the roller rails 71 and 71 'may be provided so that they always remain in the process unit 32, thus enabling rapid assembly and disassembly. For this purpose, a flap may be provided in the respective side wall 65 or an upper cover.

In Fig. 6 schematically shows the supply of the process unit 32 by the supply unit 31 in a three-dimensional representation. There are provided corresponding lines for the drives. The electrical cables for this purpose are identified by the reference numeral 83. These lead from the connecting rails 77, 77 'and 77 "to the drive terminals 78, 78' and 78". From the connection rails 77, 77 'and 77 "respectively lead electrical cables 83' into the control cabinet 76. Also schematically illustrated by the dashed line is a data cable 81 which allows an input / output connection between the process unit 32 and the supply unit 31. The data cable 81 leads into the electronic interface 80. In addition, a compressed air hose 82 is provided, which leads into a valve device 79. The valve device 79 can also be arranged in the supply unit 31, and then one or more compressed air hoses 82 can be guided into the process unit 32 by the valve device 79 become.

The lines for the drives, the compressed air lines and the line for the machine control and the other lines are disconnected when changing the process unit 32. The separation point may be on or in the supply unit 31 or on or in the process unit 32. The lines then remain in the other unit.

The opening 73 serves to carry out the filter strand or the filter material.

In the Fig. 6 shown rollers 71, 71 ', which are also shown in Figures 4 and 5b), mounted on corresponding rails mounted rollers. Correspondingly, rollers are also mounted in the rolling grooves 70 and 70 '.

Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment according to the invention an insertion device 30. This also has a supply unit 31 and a processing unit 32. In this case, the base plate 63 of the supply unit 31 is flush with the walls 64 of the supply unit 31. The process unit 32 supports rollers 62 whose height is adjustable. Correspondingly Also, the feet 61 are adjusted in height to allow accurate adjustment of the insertion device 30. In this embodiment, the process unit 32 has a base plate 63 'which is also flush with the side walls 65. In these illustrations, the Verschutzungen the process unit 32 are not shown. Of course, these can also be provided.

In the FIGS. 8a) and 8b ), the supply unit 31 and the process unit 32 are shown separately from each other. A connection of the two units 31 and 32 takes place, for example via the mounting elements 68. This may be latching or screw or other connections.

The FIGS. 9a) and 9b ) show a corresponding supply unit 31 and a process unit 32 in a schematic three-dimensional representation, which together form an insertion device 30. Compared to the slide-in devices shown, the base plate 63 of the supply unit 31 is provided for receiving or supporting the process unit 32. There is a corresponding recess in the base plate 63 is provided which is complementary in shape to a below the base plate 63 'of the process unit 32 arranged plate and in Fig. 9b ) is not visible. There are corresponding fold-out transport rollers 84 provided on the process unit 32 and clamping rails 85, by means of which the protruding tongues of the base plate 63 can be clamped. As a result, a stable fixation in the lower region of the process unit 32 with the supply unit is possible. The fold-out transport rollers 84 can be pivoted away during installation or assembly, so that the process unit 32 can lower to the supply unit 31.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic three-dimensional representation of a further insertion device 30, in which the side walls 64 of the supply unit 31 extend into the process unit 32. The process unit 32 is thus integrated into the supply unit 31. In this case, the process unit 32 comprises a base plate 63 'and a vertical partition 72. Here, a protection can still be provided. For assembly, the process unit 32 is transported by means of a forklift 86 and lowered onto the base plate 63, and then the partition wall 72 is connected to the side walls 64 and the base plate 63 'is connected to the base plate 63. Also in this embodiment, no further process elements or elements or means for processing or processing of the filter material or filter strand are shown.

Fig. 11a shows schematically in three-dimensional representation of the supply unit Fig. 10 and Fig. 11b schematically shows in a three-dimensional representation of a process unit according to the invention, which is currently being transported and that of Fig. 10 equivalent. In particular, the base plate 63 'of the process unit 31 can be seen and a partition wall 72 mounted thereon.

Fig. 12 schematically shows an insertion device according to the invention comprising a supply unit 31 and a process unit 32 in three-dimensional representation and in an exploded state. In order to assemble and disassemble the process unit on the supply unit, two handles 99 and rollers 62 are provided for ease of handling, by means of which the process unit 32 can be relatively easily rolled on the floor 96. In order to enable a simple and accurate adjustment during assembly and to move the process unit 32 specifically to or into or to the supply unit 31, a guide rail 93 is provided in a side wall of the supply unit 31. On the corresponding wall of the process unit 32, which is hidden here, that is not shown, a matching groove is provided. In addition, an inclined plane 95 or a mounting lamp is provided for simplified and accurate installation, which again in more detail Fig. 13 is recognizable. The function of the mounting lamp is also related to Fig. 13 explained. In addition, one or more locating pins 94 are provided on the supply unit 31, which correspond with shape-complementary recesses or, for example, with retaining clips provided on the wall or walls of the process unit 32.

As a special feature is still to be noted that a supplementary switch cabinet 87 is provided, which can control or drive special functions of the process unit 32. For example, a motor drive 105 for a pump 108, by means of which, for example, water is pumped from the water tank 89 into a spraying device 107, are driven by the supplementary control cabinet 87. The supplemental switch cabinet 87 is mounted on a support frame 88 and out of the process unit 32 to the rear, i. towards the back 22, outstanding. In the assembled state, the supplementary switch cabinet 87 is then located on the rear side 22 of the supply unit 31. This has the enormous advantage that an operator from the back 22 forth easily and without much effort, the electrical connections between a base cabinet or a cabinet that in the supply unit 31 is provided, and can provide the supplementary switch cabinet 87.

Fig. 13 schematically shows a section of an insertion device according to the invention in section, in the assembled state. Here, the process unit 32 is connected to the supply unit 31 in such a manner that the base plate 63 'of the process unit 32 above the base plate 63 of the supply unit 31 is located. With an arrow, the mounting direction 90 is shown. In particular, it can be seen that by providing an inclined plane 95, which is in operative connection with a support element 97 of the process unit 32, the roller 62 is no longer in contact with the bottom 96. The inclined plane, which can also be understood as a mounting lamp, is configured such that it has a lower support height toward the operating side 21 than in the mounting direction 90. The inclined plane 95 can be formed from a material which generates a low frictional resistance. Accordingly, the support element 97 will preferably be made of a material with little friction with the material of the inclined plane 95 in order to simplify assembly and disassembly. For this purpose, for example, a metal is suitable. The support element 97 is then on the inclined plane 95.

Fig. 14 schematically shows a further version of a process unit 32 according to the invention in three-dimensional representation. Here, a mounting frame 101 is provided, which provides a uniform mounting grid dimension. Thus, for example, bores or screw holes are provided in the base frame 101, which have uniform distances, for example 4.5 cm, over the entire vertical extent of the base frame, which makes up the process unit 32. On the base frame mounting plates are mounted or functional plates 103, 103 'are mounted, which represent the corresponding modular functional units. The top in Fig. 14 illustrated functional plate 103 or modular functional unit comprises three pulleys for filter tow and also schematically indicated an embossing device 105, by means of a wrapping material strip can be embossed. In addition, a drying device 106 is provided. Another functional unit or a further functional plate 103 'is below the first functional plate 103 arranged and has, for example, a spraying device 107.

Below these two functional plates 103 and 103 ', for example, a further functional plate or a further modular functional unit can be received and mounted, such as, for example, a wrapping material strip feeding functional unit. In order to simplify the assembly and disassembly of the modular functional units or the functional plates 103, 103 ', a threaded spindle 102 is provided by means of which the height of the functional plates 103, 103' can be adjusted.

Instead of a bar with holes or screw threads that form the grid and that belong to the mounting frame 101, in each case a groove can be provided here on the left and right, in which appropriate fasteners can be introduced. As a result, a stepless height adjustment is possible. By means of the functional panels or modular functional units according to the invention, various functionalities of the process unit can be achieved very efficiently and very quickly.

By the variants according to the invention a very variable filter production is possible. In particular, so very short and efficient and fast various filters can be made for which it was previously necessary to make various modifications to the filter rod machine or the filter-making machine. In this case, the insertion device is arranged in a region which lies between a filter fabric preparation machine or a filter segment assembly machine and a filter rod machine. In the region of the insertion device, the filter material or the filter strand is conveyed longitudinally. One or more insertion devices can be provided one behind the other in the conveying direction which are divided into two units each, namely a supply unit which remains at the position between the corresponding machines even with changing functions which the insertion device is to fulfill, and a second unit, namely the process unit, which can be exchanged. This is done very efficiently and quickly, so that in particular cost-effective smaller batches of different filters can be produced.

The insertion device 30 or the insertion devices 30 and therefore also the respective process unit 32 can be designed both for single-strand machines and for multi-strand machines.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

Filtertowballen

11

filter tow

20

Filtertowaufbereitungsmaschine

21

operating side

22

back

30

insertion device

31

supply unit

32

process unit

33

aroma thread

34

role

35

under format

36

reel

37

wrapping material

38

Granulatfüllvorrichtung

40

Filter rod machine

41

feed hopper

42

format device

43

bobbin mounting

50

Filter segment assembling machine

51-55

independent functional unit

56

power supply

57

Transfer device

58

conveyor drum

59

beater

60

depositor drum

61, 61 '

foot

62

role

63, 63 '

baseplate

64

Side wall

65

Side wall

66

Verschutzung

67

window

68

mounting element

70, 70 '

rolling groove

71, 71 '

roll bar

72

partition wall

73

opening

74

operating area

75

coverage area

76

switch cabinet

77, 77 ', 77 "

connecting rail

78, 78 ', 78 "

drive power

79

valve device

80

electronic interface

81

data cable

82

Compressed air hose

83, 83 '

electrical cable

84

fold-out transport roller

85

clamping rail

86

fork-lift truck

87

Supplementary cabinet

88

holding frame

89

water tank

90

mounting direction

91

first page

92

second page

93

guide rail

94

locating pin

95

inclined plane

96

ground

97

support element

99

handle

100

conveying direction

101

mounting frame

102

screw

103, 103 '

function plate

104

screw

105

embosser

106

drying device

107

Besprühvorrichtung

108

pump

Claims (15)

1. A filter production machine for the tobacco processing industry with a filter rod machine (40) and a filter tow preparation machine (20) or a filter segment assembling machine (50) for multi-segment filters, a slide-in device (30) being provided, which is fitted between the filter rod machine (40) and the filter tow preparation machine (20) or the filter rod machine (40) and the filter segment assembling machine (50), characterised in that the slide-in device (30) comprises a supply unit (31) and a processing unit (32), wherein the processing unit (32) is detachably connectable to the supply unit (31).
2. A filter production machine according to claim 1, characterised in that the filter rod machine (40) is connected with the slide-in device (30) on one side (91) of the slide-in device (30) and the filter tow preparation machine (20) or the filter segment assembling machine (50) is connected with the slide-in device (30) on the opposite side (92) of the slide-in device (30), wherein in particular the filter production machine comprises an operating side (21) and a back (22), wherein the supply unit (31) is oriented towards the back (22) and the processing unit (32) towards the operating side (21).
3. A filter production machine according to claim 2, characterised in that the processing unit (32) is exchangeable with another processing unit (32) from the operating side (21), wherein in particular the supply unit (31) provides interfaces (78, 78', 78", 79, 80) for supplying the processing unit (32), wherein the interfaces comprise an electrical connection (78, 78', 78"), a compressed air connection (79), a coolant connection and/or a control connection (80).
4. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the supply unit (31) has accommodated a switchgear cabinet (76).
5. A filter production machine according to claim 4, characterised in that an auxiliary switchgear cabinet (87) has been accommodated in the processing unit (32).
6. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the processing unit (32) is provided or equipped with means (33-38) for processing a filter rod conveyed along a longitudinal axis or filter segments conveyed along a longitudinal axis.
7. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the processing unit (32) comprises a vertical partition (72), which separates an operating area (74) and a supply area (75), wherein in particular the supply unit (31) comprises a horizontal base plate (63), resting on which the processing unit (32) is arranged, wherein, in particular for fitting the processing unit (32) to the supply unit (31), the horizontal base plate (63) of the supply unit (31) and/or a horizontal base plate (63') of the processing unit (32) is/are provided on the side facing the respective other unit (31, 32) with an oblique plane (95), which is in direct operative connection with a support element (97) of the respective other unit (31, 32).
8. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that, for fitting the processing unit (32) to the supply unit (31), at least one transfer device (71, 71') attachable to the supply unit (31) and/or the processing unit (32) is provided, by means of which the processing unit (32) may be moved in guided manner to the supply unit (31).
9. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the processing unit (32) is protected at least towards the operating side (21).
10. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the supply unit (31) and/or the processing unit (32) take(s) the form of a module or modules.
11. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the processing unit (32) has a base frame (101), wherein at least one modular functional unit (103, 103') is mountable or has been mounted on the base frame (101).
12. A filter production machine according to claim 11, characterised in that a uniform fitting grid dimension or a continuous groove is provided for fitting the functional unit (103, 103') on the base frame (101).
13. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that the supply unit (31) and/or the processing unit (32) take(s) the form of interconnectable cabinets.
14. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that the processing unit (32) comprises an identification feature, in particular coding, by means of which the supply unit (31) provides unequivocal identification of the processing unit (32) and corresponding actuation of the processing unit (32).
15. A filter production machine according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterised in that at least two slide-in devices (30) are arranged one behind the other in the conveying direction (100) of a filter rod to be conveyed in the filter rod machine (40).

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