EP2995209B1 - Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge - Google Patents

Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2995209B1
EP2995209B1 EP14003143.6A EP14003143A EP2995209B1 EP 2995209 B1 EP2995209 B1 EP 2995209B1 EP 14003143 A EP14003143 A EP 14003143A EP 2995209 B1 EP2995209 B1 EP 2995209B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
filling
cartridge case
vacuum
cartridge
filling material
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.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP14003143.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2995209A1 (en
Inventor
Martin Lober
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.)
Harro Hofliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
Original Assignee
Harro Hofliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Harro Hofliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH filed Critical Harro Hofliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH
Priority to EP14003143.6A priority Critical patent/EP2995209B1/en
Publication of EP2995209A1 publication Critical patent/EP2995209A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2995209B1 publication Critical patent/EP2995209B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B51/00Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
    • B65B51/10Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof
    • B65B51/14Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof by reciprocating or oscillating members
    • B65B51/142Closing bottle necks or tubes
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B3/00Packaging plastic material, semiliquids, liquids or mixed solids and liquids, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
    • B65B3/04Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles
    • B65B3/10Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles by application of pressure to material
    • B65B3/14Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles by application of pressure to material pneumatically
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65BMACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B7/00Closing containers or receptacles after filling
    • B65B7/16Closing semi-rigid or rigid containers or receptacles not deformed by, or not taking-up shape of, contents, e.g. boxes or cartons
    • B65B7/162Closing semi-rigid or rigid containers or receptacles not deformed by, or not taking-up shape of, contents, e.g. boxes or cartons by feeding web material to securing means
    • B65B7/164Securing by heat-sealing
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24FSMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/10Devices using liquid inhalable precursors
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24FSMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/42Cartridges or containers for inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a filling system for filling a tobacco product cartridge with a filling.
  • a filling system is off US-A-2012/0167906 known.
  • additional substances play an increasing role.
  • additional substances may be flavorings.
  • activated carbon or similar substances are also suitable for reducing the pollutant content in the smoke.
  • a smoking article cartridge that can be used in a cigarette, a whistle, an electrical replacement device or the like, and containing a corresponding filling.
  • a smoking article cartridge comprises a cartridge case, which has an air-permeable retention membrane on the front side, and which is also filled with the particular active substance-containing filling material.
  • a smoking article cartridge is used so that the retaining membrane faces the user, and that the smoke is sucked through the smoking article cartridge.
  • the smoke or vapor passing through the smoking article cartridge may be appropriately flavored and / or filtered while the active ingredient is retained at the containment membrane and does not enter the respiratory tract of the user.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a filling system for filling a smoke cartridge with a product which is adapted to produce reproducible and closely tolerated filling conditions at high clock rates.
  • the invention is further based on the object of specifying a method for filling a tobacco product cartridge by means of said filling system, which allows the exact setting and reproducible compliance with fixed filling parameters under the boundary conditions of a large-scale filling.
  • the invention is based on the finding according to the invention that for the intended use of the tobacco product cartridges a dosage of the contents by volume or weight is insufficient. Rather, it should be considered as an additional parameter that the filled tobacco product cartridge generates a certain intake or flow resistance, on the one hand to take into account the habits of the smoker, and on the other hand to maintain the possibly existing tobacco heat to the desired extent.
  • the filling material within the smoking article cartridge must therefore undergo a certain compression state during the filling process, which in turn defines the suction or flow resistance in interaction with the respective material properties of the filling material.
  • the filling system has a filling material reservoir, a holder for the cartridge case and a vacuum connection for acting on the retaining diaphragm with negative pressure.
  • the holder is designed to guide the cartridge case for filling them to the product stock.
  • the filling system is further adapted to pressurize the interior of the cartridge case through the retaining membrane with negative pressure and thereby cause a vacuum filling of the cartridge case from the contents of the filling out.
  • the interaction of retention membrane and negative pressure first ensures that the smoking article cartridge is filled to the brim.
  • a certain compression state of the filling material within the smoking article cartridge can be brought about.
  • the combination of the brimful, volumetric dosing of the filling material with the mentioned compression state ensures the desired goal:
  • the smoking article cartridge contains the one hand, the contents in the desired amount and on the other hand creates the desired intake or flow resistance during smoking.
  • the device and method are equally suitable for handling under laboratory conditions as well as in small and even large series. Even at high clock rates, the defined filling state can be maintained within narrow tolerances.
  • this has a vacuum sensor for measuring the flow resistance of the cartridge case.
  • a measurement of the flow resistance of the cartridge case to determine their degree of filling is performed.
  • a continuous or intermittent measurement of the intake vacuum is performed during the filling process by means of the vacuum sensor, wherein the filling process is terminated when falling below a predetermined limit negative pressure.
  • the use of the vacuum sensor takes into account the fact that initially the level of the filling material within the cartridge case increases, and that subsequently sets an increasing compaction of the contents within the smoking product cartridge. With increasing fill level and increasing compaction, the flow resistance and thus the applied vacuum level increase. In other words, the suction-side pressure decreases with increasing compaction, which is used as a control or controlled variable for the compaction level to be maintained.
  • the selected limit negative pressure is the measure of the suction resistance which occurs later during use.
  • a measurement of the flow resistance of the cartridge case to determine its filling quality can be carried out following the filling process by means of the vacuum sensor.
  • the negative pressure measurement carried out here provides direct information as to whether the relevant smoking article cartridge will later have the desired throughflow or suction resistance during operation. In case of deviations, a sorting out can take place.
  • the filling system may additionally or alternatively also have a flow sensor for measuring the amount of air drawn from the cartridge case.
  • a measurement of the sucked from the cartridge case air quantity to determine their degree of filling made is made.
  • the filling process is terminated when falling below a predetermined amount of air. In addition to the setting of the flow resistance discussed above, this can also be used to ensure that a specific filling quantity is achieved within the smoking article cartridge.
  • the cartridge case is brought with its open end face to the surface of the filling material in the filling material reservoir and then the filling material is sucked from the filling material into the interior of the cartridge case.
  • the contents of the filling material do not experience any or at least no appreciable pressure through the cartridge case, so that no unwanted compaction of the contents of the contents occurs.
  • the cartridge case is at least partially and in particular completely immersed in the contents of the filling for their filling with their open end face ahead. It is here at least partially applied the principle of the riser, whereby the suction process is supported. This can favor a proper filling of the cartridge case with the contents.
  • the filling system advantageously comprises a first sealing device for sealing the retention membrane on a first end face of the cartridge case.
  • the filling system also comprises a second sealing device for sealing a cover film onto a second end face of the cartridge shell opposite the retaining membrane.
  • the retention membrane is sealed onto the first end face of the cartridge case immediately before the filling process.
  • the filling described above Once this is completed, the cover sheet is sealed to the second, the retaining membrane opposite end of the cartridge case.
  • the first sealing process, the filling and the subsequent second sealing process can therefore be carried out directly in succession with the same device without adversely affecting the cycle rate. Unprocessed, empty cartridge cases can be fed into the filling system in any position, without having to pay attention to the correct alignment of a previously applied retention membrane.
  • Fig. 1 shows in a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a finished, ready-to-use smoking product cartridge 1.
  • the tobacco product cartridge 1 comprises a cartridge case 2, the interior of which is completely filled with a filling material 7.
  • the smoking article 1 extends along a longitudinal axis and is formed here cylindrical. But there are also deviant, non-circular cross-sectional shapes into consideration.
  • the cartridge case 2 In the direction of its longitudinal axis, the cartridge case 2 has a first end face 5 and a longitudinally opposite second end face 6. On the circumferential at the first end 5 edge of the cartridge case 2, an air-permeable retaining membrane 3 is sealed.
  • the retaining membrane 3 is designed such that, although it leaves air, smoke and / or steam, not the fibrous, granular or powdery filling material 7 located in the interior of the cartridge case 2.
  • a cover sheet 4 is sealed on its peripheral edge, which may be tight overall.
  • cover sheet 4 the same material with the same properties as in the retaining membrane 3.
  • limit the circumferential wall of the cartridge case 2, the retaining membrane 3 and the cover sheet 4 the interior of the smoking article 1, which is volumetrically completely filled with a filling material 7. But it can also be a partial filling appropriate.
  • contents 7 are tobacco, a tobacco preparation, a carrier material with flavorings and / or the like into consideration. Alternatively or in combination therewith, activated carbon or another suitable filter material can also be introduced.
  • the thus prepared smoking article cartridge 1 can be inserted into a cigarette, a whistle or the like. In the case of an impermeable cover sheet 4 this is pierced before use. The emanating from the tobacco smoke smoke is sucked through the tobacco product cartridge 1 by the user. In the case of filled additives (flavoring agents, filter materials and / or the like.) While the smoke is treated by the contents 7 in the desired manner, ie aromatized and / or filtered.
  • the smoking article cartridge 1 is used in an orientation in which the retention membrane 3 faces the user.
  • a smoking article cartridge 1 can also be used in replacement devices which simulate smoking, in particular to reduce harmful effects, without causing tobacco combustion to take place.
  • tobacco products used here also explicitly includes such goods or products that serve a simulation of smoking or a replacement thereof, for example, by electrically generated vapor formation.
  • Fig. 3 shows the arrangement after Fig. 2 wherein the first subsystem described above now interacts with a second subsystem of the filling system.
  • the second subsystem comprises a likewise tubular holder 9, in which now the cartridge case 2 is inserted with its first end face 5.
  • the holder 9 is used as a punching device, by means of which the sealed-retaining membrane 3 is punched konturbillion to the cartridge case 2 from the sheet material described above. But it may also be appropriate to use a separate punching device instead of the holder 9.
  • Fig. 4 shows the arrangement after Fig. 3 in the subsequent process step, in which case the holder 9 is shown completed by additional details.
  • a stop 21 In the interior of the holder 9 is a stop 21.
  • the plunger 15 is moved according to an arrow 17 such that the cartridge case 2 with its first end face 5 to rest 21 comes.
  • the holder 9 is provided with a vacuum connection 10, which extends through the stop 21 through to the receiving space for the cartridge case 2.
  • a vacuum connection 10 By means of the vacuum connection 10, the negative pressure originating from a vacuum source, not shown, can be passed through the retaining membrane 3 into the interior of the cartridge case 2.
  • a vacuum port 10 In the region of the vacuum port 10 is still a schematically indicated vacuum sensor 11 and also schematically to interpreted flow sensor 20, whose function will be discussed in more detail below.
  • Fig. 5 shows the arrangement after Fig. 4 after the cartridge case 2 according to Fig. 4 transferred from the seal holder 14 in the holder 9 and the seal holder 14 has been removed.
  • the initially empty cartridge case 2 is brought with its open, the retaining membrane 3 opposite end 6 by means of the holder 9 in contact with a Gregutvorrat 8.
  • an open-topped container is provided, in which the selected filling material 7 as a loose bulk material to form the contents vorrats 8 is located.
  • a "contact" in the above sense does not necessarily take place an actual contact of the second end face 6 with the Gregutvorrat 8. It may also be sufficient for such a close approximation that the filling material 7 can be sucked out of the filling material supply 8 into the cartridge case 2.
  • the cartridge case 2 starting from the position to Fig. 5 for their filling with their open end 6 ahead at least partially and in particular - as in Fig. 6 shown - is completely immersed in the Gregutvorrat 8.
  • a suction is introduced through the negative pressure port 10 through the retaining membrane 3 into the interior of the cartridge case 2.
  • This intake vacuum causes a suction of the filling material 7 from the product stock 8.
  • a partial filling can take place.
  • the cartridge case 2 is completely, that is completely filled with the filling material 7.
  • the retaining membrane 3 holds back the contents 7, so that this can not get into the vacuum port 10.
  • the acting negative pressure initially causes a loose filling of the cartridge case 2, which by the immersion after Fig. 6 can be supported.
  • the negative pressure continues to apply, this is followed by an increasing compaction of the filling material 7 within the cartridge case 2.
  • the latter has an effect on the level of the negative pressure in the vacuum connection 10.
  • the negative pressure in the negative pressure closure 10 is limited to the level determined by the throughflow resistance the retaining membrane 3 is specified.
  • the degree of filling within the cartridge shell increases, so does the flow resistance that arises during the suction, as a result of which the suction pressure in the region of the vacuum connection 10 drops. In other words, increases the pressure difference between the negative pressure in the region of the vacuum port 10 and the input side of the cartridge case 2 acting ambient pressure.
  • the decreasing value of intake negative pressure will be made to the decreasing value of intake negative pressure.
  • Fig. 7 After completion of the filling process, the cartridge case 2 is lifted by means of the holder 9 from the contents 8, as in Fig. 7 is shown. It may be expedient to maintain a certain minimum negative pressure at the vacuum connection 10 in order to prevent the filling material 7 from falling out of the still open cartridge case 2.
  • the vacuum still applied following the filling process described above can be used to measure the flow resistance of the cartridge case 2 by means of the vacuum sensor 11 to determine its filling quality.
  • excess contents 7 on the second end face 6 are stripped away from the cartridge case 2 by means of a scraper 19. According to the schematic representation of Fig. 7 done this stripping a relative movement of the holder 9 relative to an edge 19 of the product container corresponding to an arrow 18th
  • the filling system according to the invention also comprises a second sealing device 13 according to FIG Fig. 8 , for which here again the seal holder 14 already described is used.
  • a second sealing device 13 for which here again the seal holder 14 already described is used.
  • a separate second sealing device 13 follows the filling process described above, a cover sheet 4 is applied to the second end face 6 of the cartridge case 2 and sealed by means of the second sealing device 13 on the peripheral edge thereof.
  • the embodiment according to Fig. 8 followss the pressing and sealing by means of the plunger 15, wherein the peripheral edge of the seal holder 14 is used for punching out punching the cover sheet 4.
  • a separate punching device may be advantageous.
  • the filling system according to the invention is divided into only two subsystems, which can be attached, for example, to two counter-rotating rollers, wheels, plates or the like, and therefore a particular continuous process flow enable.

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  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
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Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Füllsystem zum Befüllen einer Rauchwarenpatrone mit einem Füllgut.The invention relates to a filling system for filling a tobacco product cartridge with a filling.

Ein Füllsystem ist aus US-A-2012/0167906 bekannt.A filling system is off US-A-2012/0167906 known.

Bei Rauchwaren wie Zigaretten, Zigarillos, Pfeifentabak oder dergleichen spielen neben Tabak auch zusätzliche Stoffe eine zunehmende Rolle. Diese zusätzlichen Stoffe können Aroma- bzw. Geschmacksstoffe sein. In Frage kommen aber auch Aktivkohle oder vergleichbare Stoffe für die Minderung des Schadstoffgehaltes im Rauch.In tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigarillos, pipe tobacco or the like, in addition to tobacco, additional substances play an increasing role. These additional substances may be flavorings. However, activated carbon or similar substances are also suitable for reducing the pollutant content in the smoke.

Eine Möglichkeit zur Bereitstellung von Tabak bzw. einer Tabakzubereitung und/oder der genannten Stoffe für das Rauchen besteht in dem Einsatz einer Rauchwarenpatrone, die in eine Zigarette, eine Pfeife, ein elektrisches Ersatzgerät oder dergleichen eingesetzt werden kann, und die ein entsprechendes Füllgut enthält. Eine solche Rauchwarenpatrone umfasst eine Patronenhülse, die stirnseitig eine luftdurchlässige Rückhaltemembran aufweist, und die außerdem mit dem insbesondere wirkstoffhaltigen Füllgut befüllt ist. Eine solche Rauchwarenpatrone wird so eingesetzt, dass die Rückhaltemembran dem Benutzer zugewandt zu liegen kommt, und dass der Rauch durch die Rauchwarenpatrone hindurch angesaugt wird. Der die Rauchwarenpatrone passierende oder darin entstehende Rauch bzw. Dampf kann entsprechend aromatisiert und/oder filtriert werden, während das wirkstoffhaltige Füllgut an der Rückhaltemembran zurückgehalten wird und nicht in die Atemwege des Benutzers gelangt.One way to provide tobacco or a tobacco preparation and / or said substances for smoking is the use of a smoking article cartridge that can be used in a cigarette, a whistle, an electrical replacement device or the like, and containing a corresponding filling. Such a smoking article cartridge comprises a cartridge case, which has an air-permeable retention membrane on the front side, and which is also filled with the particular active substance-containing filling material. Such a smoking article cartridge is used so that the retaining membrane faces the user, and that the smoke is sucked through the smoking article cartridge. The smoke or vapor passing through the smoking article cartridge may be appropriately flavored and / or filtered while the active ingredient is retained at the containment membrane and does not enter the respiratory tract of the user.

Außer an die konstruktive Ausgestaltung der Rauchwarenpatrone sind auch hohe An forderungen an die Exaktheit ihrer Befüllung gestellt. Einerseits ist es wichtig, dass eine exakt abgemessene Teilmenge des Füllgutes in die leere Rauchwarenpatrone eingebracht wird. Andererseits kommt es auf einen bestimmten Verdichtungszustand des Füllgutes innerhalb der Rauchwarenpatrone an.Except for the structural design of the smoking article and high demands are placed on the accuracy of their filling. On the one hand, it is important that a precisely measured subset of the contents is introduced into the empty tobacco product cartridge. On the other hand, it depends on a certain compression state of the contents within the smoking product cartridge.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Füllsystem zum Befüllen einer Rauch warenpatrone mit einem Füllgut bereitzustellen, welches dazu geeignet ist, bei hohen Taktraten reproduzierbare und eng tolerierte Befüllungszustände zu erzeugen.The invention has for its object to provide a filling system for filling a smoke cartridge with a product which is adapted to produce reproducible and closely tolerated filling conditions at high clock rates.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch ein Füllsystem mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.This object is achieved by a filling system having the features of claim 1.

Der Erfindung liegt des weiteren die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Verfahren zum Befüllen einer Rauchwarenpatrone mittels des genannten Füllsystems anzugeben, welches unter den Randbedingungen einer Großserienbefüllung die exakte Einstellung und reproduzierbare Einhaltung von fest definierten Befüllungsparametern ermöglicht.The invention is further based on the object of specifying a method for filling a tobacco product cartridge by means of said filling system, which allows the exact setting and reproducible compliance with fixed filling parameters under the boundary conditions of a large-scale filling.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch ein Verfahren mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 6 gelöst.This object is achieved by a method having the features of claim 6.

Zunächst basiert die Erfindung auf der erfindungsgemäßen Erkenntnis, dass für den Einsatzzweck der Rauchwarenpatronen eine Dosierung des Füllgutes nach Volumen oder Gewicht nicht ausreicht. Vielmehr gilt es als zusätzlichen Parameter zu berücksichtigen, dass die befüllte Rauchwarenpatrone einen bestimmten Ansaug- bzw. Durchströmungswiderstand erzeugt, um einerseits den Gewohnheiten des Rauchers Rechnung zu tragen, und um andererseits die ggf. vorhandene Tabakglut in gewünschtem Maß aufrecht zu erhalten. Das Füllgut innerhalb der Rauchwarenpatrone muss deshalb beim Befüllvorgang einen bestimmten Verdichtungszustand erfahren, der seinerseits den Ansaug- bzw. Durchströmungswiderstand im Zusammenspiel mit den jeweiligen Materialeigenschaften des Füllgutes definiert.First, the invention is based on the finding according to the invention that for the intended use of the tobacco product cartridges a dosage of the contents by volume or weight is insufficient. Rather, it should be considered as an additional parameter that the filled tobacco product cartridge generates a certain intake or flow resistance, on the one hand to take into account the habits of the smoker, and on the other hand to maintain the possibly existing tobacco heat to the desired extent. The filling material within the smoking article cartridge must therefore undergo a certain compression state during the filling process, which in turn defines the suction or flow resistance in interaction with the respective material properties of the filling material.

Um dies zu erreichen, weist das erfindungsgemäße Füllsystem einen Füllgutvorrat, einen Halter für die Patronenhülse und einen Unterdruckanschluss zur Beaufschlagung der Rückhaltemembran mit Unterdruck auf. Der Halter ist dazu ausgelegt, die Patronenhülse für deren Befüllung zum Füllgutvorrat zu führen. Das Füllsystem ist ferner dazu ausgelegt, den Innenraum der Patronenhülse durch die Rückhaltemembran hindurch mit Unterdruck zu beaufschlagen und dadurch eine Unterdruckbefüllung der Patronenhülse aus dem Füllgutvorrat heraus zu bewirken.In order to achieve this, the filling system according to the invention has a filling material reservoir, a holder for the cartridge case and a vacuum connection for acting on the retaining diaphragm with negative pressure. The holder is designed to guide the cartridge case for filling them to the product stock. The filling system is further adapted to pressurize the interior of the cartridge case through the retaining membrane with negative pressure and thereby cause a vacuum filling of the cartridge case from the contents of the filling out.

Im korrespondierenden erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren wird zunächst die leere Patronenhülse mit ihrer offenen, der Rückhaltemembran gegenüber liegenden Stirnseite mittels des Halters in Kontakt mit dem Füllgutvorrat gebracht. Des Weiteren wird der Innenraum der Patronenhülse durch die Rückhaltemembran hindurch mit Unterdruck beaufschlagt. Dadurch wird eine Teilmenge des Füllgutes aus dem Füllgutvorrat in den Innenraum der Patronenhülse gesaugt, wobei das Füllgut an der Rückhaltemembran zurückgehalten wird.In the corresponding method according to the invention, first of all the empty cartridge case with its open end face lying opposite the retaining membrane is brought into contact with the contents of the contents by means of the holder. Furthermore, the interior of the cartridge case is acted upon by the retaining membrane through negative pressure. As a result, a subset of the filling material is sucked from the filling material in the interior of the cartridge case, wherein the filling material is retained on the retaining membrane.

Das Zusammenspiel aus Rückhaltemembran und Unterdruck stellt zunächst sicher, dass die Rauchwarenpatrone randvoll befüllt wird. Darüber hinaus kann durch Steuerung des Unterdruckniveaus ein bestimmter Verdichtungszustand des Füllgutes innerhalb der Rauchwarenpatrone herbeigeführt werden. Die Kombination der randvollen, volumetrischen Dosierung des Füllgutes mit dem genannten Verdichtungszustand stellt das gewünschte Ziel sicher: Die Rauchwarenpatrone enthält einerseits das Füllgut in der gewünschten Menge und erzeugt andererseits beim Rauchen den gewünschten Ansaug- bzw. Durchströmungswiderstand. Darüber hinaus sind Vorrichtung und Verfahren gleichermaßen für die Handhabung unter Laborbedingungen sowie bei Klein- und sogar Großserien geeignet. Selbst bei hohen Taktraten lässt sich der definierte Befüllungszustand innerhalb eng tolerierter Grenzen einhalten.The interaction of retention membrane and negative pressure first ensures that the smoking article cartridge is filled to the brim. In addition, by controlling the vacuum level, a certain compression state of the filling material within the smoking article cartridge can be brought about. The combination of the brimful, volumetric dosing of the filling material with the mentioned compression state ensures the desired goal: The smoking article cartridge contains the one hand, the contents in the desired amount and on the other hand creates the desired intake or flow resistance during smoking. In addition, the device and method are equally suitable for handling under laboratory conditions as well as in small and even large series. Even at high clock rates, the defined filling state can be maintained within narrow tolerances.

In vorteilhafter Weiterbildung des erfindungsgemäßen Füllsystems weist dieses einen Unterdrucksensor zur Messung des Durchströmungswiderstandes der Patronenhülse auf. Im zugehörigen Verfahrensschritt wird mittels des Unterdrucksensors eine Messung des Durchströmungswiderstandes der Patronenhülse zur Bestimmung ihres Füllgrades vorgenommen. Insbesondere wird während des Füllvorganges mittels des Unterdrucksensors eine kontinuierliche oder intermittierende Messung des Ansaugunterdrucks vorgenommen, wobei der Füllvorgang beim Unterschreiten eines vorgegebenen Grenzunterdruckes beendet wird.In an advantageous embodiment of the filling system according to the invention, this has a vacuum sensor for measuring the flow resistance of the cartridge case. In the associated method step, by means of the vacuum sensor, a measurement of the flow resistance of the cartridge case to determine their degree of filling performed. In particular, a continuous or intermittent measurement of the intake vacuum is performed during the filling process by means of the vacuum sensor, wherein the filling process is terminated when falling below a predetermined limit negative pressure.

Der Einsatz des Unterdrucksensors trägt dem Umstand Rechnung, dass anfänglich der Füllstand des Füllgutes innerhalb der Patronenhülse steigt, und dass sich anschließend eine zunehmende Kompaktierung des Füllgutes innerhalb der Rauchwarenpatrone einstellt. Mit zunehmendem Füllstand und zunehmender Kompaktierung steigen der Durchströmungswiderstand und damit das anliegende Unterdruckniveau. Mit anderen Worten sinkt der ansaugseitige Druck mit steigender Kompaktierung, was als Steuer- bzw. Regelgröße für das einzuhaltende Kompaktierungsniveau herangezogen wird. Der gewählte Grenzunterdruck ist das Maß für den sich später bei der Benutzung einstellenden Ansaugwiderstand. Dadurch, dass der Füllvorgang dann beendet wird, wenn der Ansaugunterdruck den vorgegebenen Grenzunterdruck unterschreitet bzw. als Druckdifferenz zum Umgebungsdruck in ihrem Absolutwert einen Grenzwert überschreitet, ist die exakte Einhaltung des später sich einstellenden Ansaugwiderstandes sichergestellt.The use of the vacuum sensor takes into account the fact that initially the level of the filling material within the cartridge case increases, and that subsequently sets an increasing compaction of the contents within the smoking product cartridge. With increasing fill level and increasing compaction, the flow resistance and thus the applied vacuum level increase. In other words, the suction-side pressure decreases with increasing compaction, which is used as a control or controlled variable for the compaction level to be maintained. The selected limit negative pressure is the measure of the suction resistance which occurs later during use. The fact that the filling process is terminated when the intake vacuum falls below the predetermined limit negative pressure or exceeds a limit in its absolute value as a pressure difference to the ambient pressure in its absolute value, the exact compliance with the subsequent self-adjusting suction is ensured.

Alternativ zur vorgenannten Unterdruckmessung während des Füllvorganges oder zusätzlich dazu kann im Anschluss an den Füllvorgang mittels des Unterdrucksensors eine Messung des Durchströmungswiderstandes der Patronenhülse zur Bestimmung ihrer Füllqualität vorgenommen werden. Die hier vorgenommene Unterdruckmessung gibt direkten Aufschluss darüber, ob die betreffende Rauchwarenpatrone später im Betrieb den gewünschten Durchströmungs- bzw. Ansaugwiderstand haben wird. Bei Abweichungen hiervon kann eine Aussortierung erfolgen.As an alternative to the aforementioned negative pressure measurement during the filling process or in addition thereto, a measurement of the flow resistance of the cartridge case to determine its filling quality can be carried out following the filling process by means of the vacuum sensor. The negative pressure measurement carried out here provides direct information as to whether the relevant smoking article cartridge will later have the desired throughflow or suction resistance during operation. In case of deviations, a sorting out can take place.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform kann das Füllsystem zusätzlich oder alternativ auch einen Durchflusssensor zur Messung der aus der Patronenhülse angesaugten Luftmenge aufweisen. Im zugehörigen Verfahrensschritt wird mittels des Durchflusssensors eine Messung der aus der Patronenhülse angesaugten Luftmenge zur Bestimmung ihres Füllgrades vorgenommen. Insbesondere wird während des Füllvorganges mittels des Durchflusssensors eine kontinuierliche und intermittierende Messung der Luftmenge vorgenommen, wobei der Füllvorgang bei Unterschreiten einer vorgegebenen Luftmenge beendet wird. Ergänzend zur Einstellung des oben abgehandelten Durchströmungswiderstandes kann hierdurch auch sichergestellt werden, dass eine bestimmte Füllmenge innerhalb der Rauchwarenpatrone erreicht ist.In a preferred embodiment, the filling system may additionally or alternatively also have a flow sensor for measuring the amount of air drawn from the cartridge case. In the associated method step, by means of the flow sensor, a measurement of the sucked from the cartridge case air quantity to determine their degree of filling made. In particular, during the filling process by means of Flow sensor made a continuous and intermittent measurement of the amount of air, the filling process is terminated when falling below a predetermined amount of air. In addition to the setting of the flow resistance discussed above, this can also be used to ensure that a specific filling quantity is achieved within the smoking article cartridge.

Für den Befüllvorgang kann es ausreichen, dass die Patronenhülse mit ihrer offenen Stirnseite an die Oberfläche des Füllgutes im Füllgutvorrat gebracht und dann das Füllgut aus dem Füllgut in den Innenraum der Patronenhülse gesaugt wird. Hierbei ist sichergestellt, dass der Füllgutvorrat keinen oder zumindest keinen nennenswerten Druck durch die Patronenhülse erfährt, so dass keine ungewollte Kompaktierung des Füllgutvorrates eintritt. Alternativ kann es zweckmäßig sein, dass die Patronenhülse für ihre Befüllung mit ihrer offenen Stirnseite voran zumindest teilweise und insbesondere vollständig in den Füllgutvorrat eingetaucht wird. Es wird hier zumindest anteilig das Prinzip des Stechhebers angewandt, wodurch der Ansaugvorgang unterstützt wird. Dies kann eine ordnungsgemäße Befüllung der Patronenhülse mit dem Füllgut begünstigen.For the filling process, it may be sufficient that the cartridge case is brought with its open end face to the surface of the filling material in the filling material reservoir and then the filling material is sucked from the filling material into the interior of the cartridge case. In this case, it is ensured that the contents of the filling material do not experience any or at least no appreciable pressure through the cartridge case, so that no unwanted compaction of the contents of the contents occurs. Alternatively, it may be expedient that the cartridge case is at least partially and in particular completely immersed in the contents of the filling for their filling with their open end face ahead. It is here at least partially applied the principle of the riser, whereby the suction process is supported. This can favor a proper filling of the cartridge case with the contents.

Das Füllsystem umfasst vorteilhaft eine erste Siegeleinrichtung zur Aufsiegelung der Rückhaltemembran auf eine erste Stirnseite der Patronenhülse. Zweckmäßig umfasst das Füllsystem auch eine zweite Siegeleinrichtung zur Aufsiegelung einer Deckfolie auf eine zweite, der Rückhaltemembran gegenüberliegenden Stirnseite der Patronenhülse. In den zugehörigen Verfahrensschritten wird unmittelbar vor dem Befüllungsvorgang die Rückhaltemembran auf die erste Stirnseite der Patronenhülse aufgesiegelt. Anschließend erfolgt die oben beschriebene Befüllung. Sobald diese abgeschlossen ist, wird die Deckfolie auf die zweite, der Rückhaltemembran gegenüberliegenden Stirnseite der Patronenhülse aufgesiegelt. Der erste Siegelvorgang, die Befüllung und der anschließende zweite Siegelvorgang können demnach unmittelbar aufeinanderfolgend mit der gleichen Vorrichtung durchgeführt werden, ohne die Taktrate nachteilig zu beeinflussen. Unbearbeitete, leere Patronenhülsen können in beliebiger Lage dem Füllsystem zugeführt werden, ohne dass auf die korrekte Ausrichtung einer zuvor aufgebrachten Rückhaltemembran geachtet werden muss.The filling system advantageously comprises a first sealing device for sealing the retention membrane on a first end face of the cartridge case. Expediently, the filling system also comprises a second sealing device for sealing a cover film onto a second end face of the cartridge shell opposite the retaining membrane. In the associated method steps, the retention membrane is sealed onto the first end face of the cartridge case immediately before the filling process. Subsequently, the filling described above. Once this is completed, the cover sheet is sealed to the second, the retaining membrane opposite end of the cartridge case. The first sealing process, the filling and the subsequent second sealing process can therefore be carried out directly in succession with the same device without adversely affecting the cycle rate. Unprocessed, empty cartridge cases can be fed into the filling system in any position, without having to pay attention to the correct alignment of a previously applied retention membrane.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnung näher beschrieben. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
in einer schematischen Längsschnittdarstellung eine fertiggestellte Rauchwarenpatrone, welche erfindungsgemäß befüllt und abgesiegelt wurde,
Fig. 2
in einer schematischen Längsschnittdarstellung ein erstes Teilsystem des erfindungsgemäßen Befüllsystems mit einem Siegelhalter und mit einer eingesetzten, leeren Patronenhülse beim Aufsiegeln der Rückhaltemembran,
Fig. 3
die Anordnung nach Fig. 2 beim Überführen der Patronenhülse in einen Halter des zweiten Teilsystems für den späteren Befüllvorgang,
Fig. 4
die Anordnung nach Fig. 3 mit Einzelheiten zur Ausgestaltung des zweiten Teilsystems des erfindungsgemäßen Befüllsystems mit dessen Halter bei vollständig eingesetzter Patronenhülse,
Fig. 5
die Anordnung nach Fig. 4 beim Aufsetzen der Patronenhülse auf einen Füllgutvorrat,
Fig. 6
die Anordnung nach Fig. 5 mit in den Füllgutvorrat eingetauchter Patronenhülse,
Fig. 7
die Anordnung nach Fig. 6 beim Abstreifen von überschüssigem Füllgut von der Unterkante der Patronenhülse mittels eines Abstreifers, und
Fig. 8
die Anordnung nach Fig. 4 beim abschließenden Aufsiegeln einer Deckfolie auf die befüllte Patronenhülse.
An embodiment of the invention is described below with reference to the drawing. Show it:
Fig. 1
in a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a finished tobacco product cartridge which has been inventively filled and sealed,
Fig. 2
in a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a first subsystem of the filling system according to the invention with a seal holder and with an inserted, empty cartridge case when sealing the retention membrane,
Fig. 3
the arrangement after Fig. 2 when transferring the cartridge case into a holder of the second subsystem for the subsequent filling process,
Fig. 4
the arrangement after Fig. 3 with details of the configuration of the second subsystem of the filling system according to the invention with its holder with fully inserted cartridge case,
Fig. 5
the arrangement after Fig. 4 when placing the cartridge case on a product stock,
Fig. 6
the arrangement after Fig. 5 with cartridge case immersed in the product stock,
Fig. 7
the arrangement after Fig. 6 during stripping of excess contents of the lower edge of the cartridge case by means of a scraper, and
Fig. 8
the arrangement after Fig. 4 the final sealing of a cover sheet on the filled cartridge case.

Fig. 1 zeigt in einer schematischen Längsschnittdarstellung eine fertiggestellte, einsatzbereite Rauchwarenpatrone 1. Die Rauchwarenpatrone 1 umfasst eine Patronenhülse 2, deren Innenraum vollständig mit einem Füllgut 7 befüllt ist. Die Rauchwarenpatrone 1 erstreckt sich entlang einer Längsachse und ist hier zylindrisch ausgeformt. Es kommen aber auch abweichende, unrunde Querschnittsformen in Betracht. In Richtung ihrer Längsachse weist die Patronenhülse 2 eine erste Stirnseite 5 und eine in Längsrichtung gegenüberliegende zweite Stirnseite 6 auf. Auf den an der ersten Stirnseite 5 umlaufenden Rand der Patronenhülse 2 ist eine luftdurchlässige Rückhaltemembran 3 aufgesiegelt. Die Rückhaltemembran 3 ist derart ausgebildet, dass sie zwar Luft, Rauch und/oder Dampf, nicht jedoch das im Innenraum der Patronenhülse 2 befindliche faserige, körnige oder pulvrige Füllgut 7 hindurch lässt. An der zweiten, der Rückhaltemembran gegenüberliegenden Stirnseite 6 der Patronenhülse 2 ist auf ihren umlaufenden Rand eine Deckfolie 4 aufgesiegelt, welche insgesamt dicht sein kann. Es kommt aber auch in Betracht, als Deckfolie 4 das gleiche Material mit den gleichen Eigenschaften wie bei der Rückhaltemembran 3 einzusetzen. In jedem Falle begrenzen die Umfangswand der Patronenhülse 2, die Rückhaltemembran 3 und die Deckfolie 4 den Innenraum der Rauchwarenpatrone 1, welcher volumetrisch vollständig mit einem Füllgut 7 befüllt ist. Es kann aber auch eine Teilbefüllung zweckmäßig sein. Fig. 1 shows in a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a finished, ready-to-use smoking product cartridge 1. The tobacco product cartridge 1 comprises a cartridge case 2, the interior of which is completely filled with a filling material 7. The smoking article 1 extends along a longitudinal axis and is formed here cylindrical. But there are also deviant, non-circular cross-sectional shapes into consideration. In the direction of its longitudinal axis, the cartridge case 2 has a first end face 5 and a longitudinally opposite second end face 6. On the circumferential at the first end 5 edge of the cartridge case 2, an air-permeable retaining membrane 3 is sealed. The retaining membrane 3 is designed such that, although it leaves air, smoke and / or steam, not the fibrous, granular or powdery filling material 7 located in the interior of the cartridge case 2. At the second, the retaining membrane opposite end face 6 of the cartridge case 2, a cover sheet 4 is sealed on its peripheral edge, which may be tight overall. However, it is also possible to use as cover sheet 4 the same material with the same properties as in the retaining membrane 3. In any case, limit the circumferential wall of the cartridge case 2, the retaining membrane 3 and the cover sheet 4, the interior of the smoking article 1, which is volumetrically completely filled with a filling material 7. But it can also be a partial filling appropriate.

Als Füllgut 7 kommen Tabak, eine Tabakzubereitung, ein Trägermaterial mit Aromastoffen und/oder dergleichen in Betracht. Alternativ oder in Kombination damit kann auch Aktivkohle oder ein anderes geeignetes Filtermaterial eingefüllt werden. Die auf diese Weise vorbereitete Rauchwarenpatrone 1 kann in eine Zigarette, eine Pfeife oder dergleichen eingesetzt werden. Im Falle einer undurchlässigen Deckfolie 4 ist diese vor Benutzung zu durchstoßen. Der von der Tabakglut ausgehende Rauch wird durch die Rauchwarenpatrone 1 hindurch vom Benutzer angesaugt. Im Falle von eingefüllten Zusatzstoffen (Aromastoffe, Filterstoffe und/oder dgl.) wird dabei der Rauch durch das Füllgut 7 in gewünschter Weise aufbereitet, d. h. aromatisiert und/oder gefiltert. Die Rauchwarenpatrone 1 wird in einer Orientierung eingesetzt, bei der die Rückhaltemembran 3 dem Benutzer zugewandt ist. Die Rückhaltemembran 3 hält dabei unter Einwirkung des vom Benutzer aufgebrachten Ansaugunterdruckes das Füllgut 7 im Innenraum der Rauchwarenpatrone 1 zurück. Alternativ zur vorstehend beschriebenen Bereitstellung bzw. Aufbereitung des Tabakrauches kann eine derartige Rauchwarenpatrone 1 auch in Ersatzgeräten eingesetzt werden, die insbesondere zur Minderung schädlicher Wirkungen das Rauchen simulieren, ohne dass dabei eine Tabakverbrennung stattfindet. Der hier benutzte Begriff "Rauchwaren" umfasst damit auch explizit solche Waren bzw. Füllgüter, die einer Simulation des Rauchens bzw. einem Ersatz dafür beispielsweise durch elektrisch erzeugte Dampfbildung dienen.As contents 7 are tobacco, a tobacco preparation, a carrier material with flavorings and / or the like into consideration. Alternatively or in combination therewith, activated carbon or another suitable filter material can also be introduced. The thus prepared smoking article cartridge 1 can be inserted into a cigarette, a whistle or the like. In the case of an impermeable cover sheet 4 this is pierced before use. The emanating from the tobacco smoke smoke is sucked through the tobacco product cartridge 1 by the user. In the case of filled additives (flavoring agents, filter materials and / or the like.) While the smoke is treated by the contents 7 in the desired manner, ie aromatized and / or filtered. The smoking article cartridge 1 is used in an orientation in which the retention membrane 3 faces the user. The retention membrane 3 keeps under the action of the suction pressure applied by the user, the filling material 7 in the interior of the smoking article 1 back. As an alternative to the above-described provision or preparation of the tobacco smoke, such a smoking article cartridge 1 can also be used in replacement devices which simulate smoking, in particular to reduce harmful effects, without causing tobacco combustion to take place. The term "tobacco products" used here also explicitly includes such goods or products that serve a simulation of smoking or a replacement thereof, for example, by electrically generated vapor formation.

Die vorstehend beschriebene Rauchwarenpatrone 1 wird in einem erfindungsgemäßen Füllsystem mit erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrensschritten befüllt und fertiggestellt, wie es nachfolgend beispielhaft anhand der Fig. 2 bis 8 beschrieben ist:

  • Fig. 2 zeigt in einer schematischen Längsschnittdarstellung ein erstes Teilsystem des erfindungsgemäßen Füllsystems, demnach ein rohrförmiger Siegelhalter 14 vorgesehen ist. Im Siegelhalter 14 befindet sich ein axial bewegbarer Stößel 15. Eine leere, beidseitig offene Patronenhülse 2 ist in den Siegelhalter 14 eingesetzt und liegt auf dem Stößel 15 derart auf, dass ihre erste Stirnseite 5 aus dem Siegelhalter 14 hervorsteht. In dieser Konfiguration wird zur Bildung der Rückhaltemembran 3 ein entsprechend bahnförmiges Material auf die erste Stirnseite 5 aufgelegt und mittels einer schematisch angedeuteten ersten Siegeleinrichtung 12 auf die erste Stirnseite 5 aufgesiegelt.
The tobacco product cartridge 1 described above is filled in a filling system according to the invention with process steps according to the invention and completed, as shown below by way of example with reference to FIG Fig. 2 to 8 is described:
  • Fig. 2 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a first subsystem of the filling system according to the invention, according to which a tubular seal holder 14 is provided. In the seal holder 14 is an axially movable plunger 15. An empty, open on both sides cartridge case 2 is inserted into the seal holder 14 and rests on the plunger 15 such that its first end face 5 protrudes from the seal holder 14. In this configuration, a corresponding sheet-like material is placed on the first end face 5 and sealed by means of a schematically indicated first sealing device 12 on the first end face 5 to form the retaining membrane 3.

Fig. 3 zeigt die Anordnung nach Fig. 2, wobei das vorstehend beschriebene erste Teilsystem nun in Wechselwirkung mit einem zweiten Teilsystem des Füllsystems tritt. Das zweite Teilsystem umfasst einen ebenfalls rohrförmigen Halter 9, in den nun die Patronenhülse 2 mit ihrer ersten Stirnseite 5 eingeführt wird. Im gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel wird der Halter 9 als Stanzeinrichtung genutzt, mittels derer die aufgesiegelte Rückhaltemembran 3 konturbündig zur Patronenhülse 2 aus dem oben beschriebenen Bahnmaterial ausgestanzt wird. Es kann aber auch zweckmäßig sein, anstelle des Halters 9 eine separate Stanzeinrichtung zu verwenden. Fig. 3 shows the arrangement after Fig. 2 wherein the first subsystem described above now interacts with a second subsystem of the filling system. The second subsystem comprises a likewise tubular holder 9, in which now the cartridge case 2 is inserted with its first end face 5. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the holder 9 is used as a punching device, by means of which the sealed-retaining membrane 3 is punched konturbündig to the cartridge case 2 from the sheet material described above. But it may also be appropriate to use a separate punching device instead of the holder 9.

Fig. 4 zeigt die Anordnung nach Fig. 3 im nachfolgenden Verfahrensschritt, wobei hier der Halter 9 um zusätzliche Details vervollständigt dargestellt ist. Im Innenraum des Halters 9 befindet sich ein Anschlag 21. Für die Übergabe der Patronenhülse 2 aus dem Siegelhalter 14 in den Halter 9 wird der Stößel 15 entsprechend einem Pfeil 17 derart bewegt, dass die Patronenhülse 2 mit ihrer ersten Stirnseite 5 am Anschlag 21 zu liegen kommt. Fig. 4 shows the arrangement after Fig. 3 in the subsequent process step, in which case the holder 9 is shown completed by additional details. In the interior of the holder 9 is a stop 21. For the transfer of the cartridge case 2 from the seal holder 14 in the holder 9, the plunger 15 is moved according to an arrow 17 such that the cartridge case 2 with its first end face 5 to rest 21 comes.

Der Halter 9 ist mit einem Unterdruckanschluss 10 versehen, welcher durch den Anschlag 21 hindurch bis zum Aufnahmeraum für die Patronenhülse 2 verläuft. Mittels des Unterdruckanschlusses 10 kann der von einer nicht dargestellten Unterdruckquelle ausgehende Unterdruck durch die Rückhaltemembran 3 hindurch in den Innenraum der Patronenhülse 2 geleitet werden. Im Bereich des Unterdruckanschlusses 10 befindet sich noch ein schematisch angedeuteter Unterdrucksensor 11 sowie ein ebenfalls schematisch an gedeuteter Durchflusssensor 20, auf deren Funktion weiter unten näher eingegangen wird.The holder 9 is provided with a vacuum connection 10, which extends through the stop 21 through to the receiving space for the cartridge case 2. By means of the vacuum connection 10, the negative pressure originating from a vacuum source, not shown, can be passed through the retaining membrane 3 into the interior of the cartridge case 2. In the region of the vacuum port 10 is still a schematically indicated vacuum sensor 11 and also schematically to interpreted flow sensor 20, whose function will be discussed in more detail below.

Fig. 5 zeigt die Anordnung nach Fig. 4, nachdem die Patronenhülse 2 gemäß Fig. 4 aus dem Siegelhalter 14 in den Halter 9 überführt und der Siegelhalter 14 entfernt wurde. In dieser Konfiguration wird die zunächst noch leere Patronenhülse 2 mit ihrer offenen, der Rückhaltemembran 3 gegenüberliegenden Stirnseite 6 mittels des Halters 9 in Kontakt mit einem Füllgutvorrat 8 gebracht. Hierzu ist ein nach oben offener Behälter vorgesehen, in dem sich das ausgewählte Füllgut 7 als loses Schüttmaterial zur Bildung des Füllgut vorrates 8 befindet. Als "Kontakt" im oben genannten Sinne muss nicht notwendig eine tatsächliche Berührung der zweiten Stirnseite 6 mit dem Füllgutvorrat 8 stattfinden. Es kann auch eine derart enge Annäherung ausreichen, dass das Füllgut 7 aus dem Füllgutvorrat 8 in die Patronenhülse 2 eingesaugt werden kann. Alternativ kommt auch in Betracht, dass die Patronenhülse 2 ausgehend von der Position nach Fig. 5 für ihre Befüllung mit ihrer offenen Stirnseite 6 voran zumindest teilweise und insbesondere - wie in Fig. 6 gezeigt - vollständig in den Füllgutvorrat 8 eingetaucht wird. Bevorzugt wird jedenfalls gemäß der Darstellung nach Fig. 6 nur die Patronenhülse 2, nicht jedoch der Halter 9 in den Füllgutvorrat 8 eingetaucht. Fig. 5 shows the arrangement after Fig. 4 after the cartridge case 2 according to Fig. 4 transferred from the seal holder 14 in the holder 9 and the seal holder 14 has been removed. In this configuration, the initially empty cartridge case 2 is brought with its open, the retaining membrane 3 opposite end 6 by means of the holder 9 in contact with a Füllgutvorrat 8. For this purpose, an open-topped container is provided, in which the selected filling material 7 as a loose bulk material to form the contents vorrats 8 is located. As a "contact" in the above sense does not necessarily take place an actual contact of the second end face 6 with the Füllgutvorrat 8. It may also be sufficient for such a close approximation that the filling material 7 can be sucked out of the filling material supply 8 into the cartridge case 2. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that the cartridge case 2, starting from the position to Fig. 5 for their filling with their open end 6 ahead at least partially and in particular - as in Fig. 6 shown - is completely immersed in the Füllgutvorrat 8. In any case, it is preferred according to the illustration Fig. 6 only the cartridge case 2, but not the holder 9 immersed in the Füllgutvorrat 8.

Ausgehend von der Position der Patronenhülse 2 nach Fig. 5, nach Fig. 6 oder einer Zwischenposition davon mit nur teilweise eingetauchter Patronenhülse 2 erfolgt nun die Befüllung des Innenraums der Patronenhülse 2 mit dem Füllgut 7 aus dem Füllgutvorrat 8. Hierzu wird über den Unterdruckanschluss 10 ein Ansaugunterdruck durch die Rückhaltemembran 3 hindurch in den Innenraum der Patronenhülse 2 eingebracht. Dieser Ansaugunterdruck bewirkt eine Ansaugung des Füllgutes 7 aus dem Füllgutvorrat 8. Durch eine geeignete Verfahrenssteuerung kann eine teilweise Befüllung erfolgen. Bevorzugt wird die Patronenhülse 2 vollständig, d. h. randvoll mit dem Füllgut 7 befüllt. Die Rückhaltemembran 3 hält dabei das Füllgut 7 zurück, so dass dieses nicht in den Unterdruckanschluss 10 gelangen kann.Starting from the position of the cartridge case 2 after Fig. 5 , to Fig. 6 or an intermediate position thereof with only partially immersed cartridge case 2 is now the filling of the interior of the cartridge case 2 with the contents 7 from the Füllgutvorrat 8. For this purpose, a suction is introduced through the negative pressure port 10 through the retaining membrane 3 into the interior of the cartridge case 2. This intake vacuum causes a suction of the filling material 7 from the product stock 8. By a suitable process control, a partial filling can take place. Preferably, the cartridge case 2 is completely, that is completely filled with the filling material 7. The retaining membrane 3 holds back the contents 7, so that this can not get into the vacuum port 10.

Der einwirkende Unterdruck bewirkt zunächst eine lose Befüllung der Patronenhülse 2, welche durch den Eintauchvorgang nach Fig. 6 unterstützt werden kann. Bei weiter anliegendem Unterdruck folgt hieran eine zunehmende Kompaktierung des Füllgutes 7 innerhalb der Patronenhülse 2. Letzteres hat Auswirkungen auf die Höhe des Unterdrucks im Unterdruckanschluss 10. Bei zunächst noch leerer Patronenhülse 2 beschränkt sich der Unterdruck im Unterdruckschluss 10 auf das Niveau, welches durch den Durchströmungswiderstand der Rückhaltemembran 3 vorgegeben wird. Mit steigendem Füllgrad innerhalb der Patronenhülse steigt auch der bei der Ansaugung entstehende Durchströmungswiderstand, in dessen Folge der Ansaugdruck im Bereich des Unterdruckanschlusses 10 absinkt. Mit anderen Worten steigt die Druckdifferenz zwischen dem Unterdruck im Bereich des Unterdruckanschlusses 10 und dem eingangsseitig der Patronenhülse 2 wirkenden Umgebungsdruck. Nachfolgend wird jedoch der Einfachheit halber auf den sinkenden Wert des Ansaugunterdruckes Bezug genommen.The acting negative pressure initially causes a loose filling of the cartridge case 2, which by the immersion after Fig. 6 can be supported. When the negative pressure continues to apply, this is followed by an increasing compaction of the filling material 7 within the cartridge case 2. The latter has an effect on the level of the negative pressure in the vacuum connection 10. When the cartridge case 2 is initially empty, the negative pressure in the negative pressure closure 10 is limited to the level determined by the throughflow resistance the retaining membrane 3 is specified. As the degree of filling within the cartridge shell increases, so does the flow resistance that arises during the suction, as a result of which the suction pressure in the region of the vacuum connection 10 drops. In other words, increases the pressure difference between the negative pressure in the region of the vacuum port 10 and the input side of the cartridge case 2 acting ambient pressure. Hereinafter, however, for the sake of simplicity, reference will be made to the decreasing value of intake negative pressure.

Zur Bestimmung des füllgradabhängigen Ansaugunterdruckes ist im unterdruckführenden Teil des Halters 9 ein Unterdrucksensor 11 angebracht, der mit einer nicht dargestellten Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung des Füllsystems verbunden ist. Darüber hinaus ist im Bereich des Unterdruckanschlusses 10 ein Durchflusssensor 20 angebracht, der ebenfalls mit der genannten Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung verbunden ist, und mittels dessen sich die durch die Rückhaltemembran 3 hindurch gesaugte Luftmenge bestimmen lässt. Der Unterdrucksensor 11 und/oder der Durchflusssensor 20 lassen sich vorteilhaft wie nachfolgend beschrieben für die Verfahrenssteuerung einsetzen:

  • Zunächst kann während des Füllvorganges nach den Fig. 5 oder 6 eine nach Wahl kontinuierliche oder auch intermittierende Messung des wirkenden und sich während des Füllvorganges verändernden Ansaugunterdruckes vorgenommen werden. Zuvor wurde ein Grenzunterdruck festgelegt, welcher für die Bestimmung eines korrekten Füllzustandes herangezogen wird. Anfänglich ist der Ansaugunterdruck kaum geringer als der Umgebungsdruck, weist also noch einen vergleichsweise großen Absolutbetrag auf. Mit steigendem Füllgrad steigt auch der Durchströmungswiderstand, in dessen Folge der Ansaugunterdruck abnimmt. Sobald mittels des Unterdrucksensors ermittelt wurde, dass der Ansaugunterdruck den genannten Grenzunterdruck unterschritten hat, wird der Füllvorgang beendet, indem die Patronenhülse 2 vom Füllgutvorrat 8 entfernt wird. Alternativ oder zusätzlich kann während des Füllvorganges mittels des Durchflusssensors 20 eine kontinuierliche oder intermittierende Messung derjenigen Luftmenge vorgenommen werden, die durch die Rückhaltemembran 3 hindurch aus dem Innenraum der Patronenhülse 2 angesaugt wurde. Auch hierzu wurde zuvor ein entsprechender Grenzwert festgelegt. Das Überschreiten dieses Grenzwertes bzw. der vorgegebenen Luftmenge kann ebenfalls als Signal für das Erreichen des gewünschten Füllzustands und damit für das Beenden des Füllvorganges herangezogen werden.
In order to determine the filling level-dependent intake vacuum, a vacuum sensor 11 is mounted in the vacuum-carrying part of the holder 9, which is connected to a control or regulating device, not shown, of the filling system. In addition, in the region of the vacuum connection 10, a flow sensor 20 is mounted, which is also connected to said control or regulating device, and by means of which the air sucked through the retaining membrane 3 can be determined. Of the Vacuum sensor 11 and / or the flow sensor 20 can advantageously be used for process control as described below:
  • First, during the filling process after the Fig. 5 or 6 a choice of continuous or intermittent measurement of the acting and changing during the intake suction pressure to be made. Previously, a limit negative pressure was set, which is used to determine a correct filling state. Initially, the intake vacuum is hardly lower than the ambient pressure, so it still has a comparatively large absolute value. As the fill level increases, so does the flow resistance, as a result of which the intake vacuum decreases. Once it has been determined by means of the vacuum sensor that the intake vacuum has fallen below said limit negative pressure, the filling process is terminated by the cartridge case 2 is removed from the Füllgutvorrat 8. Alternatively or additionally, during the filling process by means of the flow sensor 20, a continuous or intermittent measurement of the amount of air that was sucked through the retaining membrane 3 from the interior of the cartridge case 2. Again, a corresponding limit has previously been set. Exceeding this limit or the predetermined amount of air can also be used as a signal for the achievement of the desired filling state and thus for the completion of the filling process.

Nach Abschluss des Füllvorganges wird die Patronenhülse 2 mittels des Halters 9 vom Füllgutvorrat 8 abgehoben, wie dies in Fig. 7 dargestellt ist. Hierbei kann es zweckmäßig sein, am Unterdruckanschluss 10 einen gewissen Minimalunterdruck aufrecht zu erhalten, um ein Herausfallen des Füllgutes 7 aus der noch unten offenen Patronenhülse 2 zu verhindern. Darüber hinaus kann der jetzt noch anliegende Unterdruck im Anschluss an den oben beschriebenen Füllvorgang dazu verwendet werden, mittels des Unterdrucksensors 11 eine Messung des Durchströmungswiderstandes der Patronenhülse 2 zur Bestimmung ihrer Füllqualität vorzunehmen. Darüber hinaus wird noch mittels eines Abstreifers 19 überschüssiges Füllgut 7 an der zweiten Stirnseite 6 von der Patronenhülse 2 abgestreift. Entsprechend der schematischen Darstellung nach Fig. 7 erfolgt dieses Abstreifen durch eine Relativbewegung des Halters 9 gegenüber einer Kante 19 des Füllgutbehälters entsprechend einem Pfeil 18.After completion of the filling process, the cartridge case 2 is lifted by means of the holder 9 from the contents 8, as in Fig. 7 is shown. It may be expedient to maintain a certain minimum negative pressure at the vacuum connection 10 in order to prevent the filling material 7 from falling out of the still open cartridge case 2. In addition, the vacuum still applied following the filling process described above can be used to measure the flow resistance of the cartridge case 2 by means of the vacuum sensor 11 to determine its filling quality. In addition, excess contents 7 on the second end face 6 are stripped away from the cartridge case 2 by means of a scraper 19. According to the schematic representation of Fig. 7 done this stripping a relative movement of the holder 9 relative to an edge 19 of the product container corresponding to an arrow 18th

Schließlich umfasst das erfindungsgemäße Füllsystem noch eine zweite Siegeleinrichtung 13 gemäß Fig. 8, wofür hier erneut der eingangs schon beschriebene Siegelhalter 14 zum Einsatz kommt. Natürlich kann es aber auch zweckmäßig sein, eine separate zweite Siegeleinrichtung 13 vorzusehen. Jedenfalls wird im Anschluss an den vorstehend beschriebenen Befüllvorgang eine Deckfolie 4 an die zweite Stirnseite 6 der Patronenhülse 2 angelegt und mittels der zweiten Siegeleinrichtung 13 auf deren umlaufenden Rand aufgesiegelt. Im Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 8 folgt das Anpressen und Aufsiegeln mittels des Stößels 15, wobei der umlaufende Rand des Siegelhalters 14 zum konturbündigen Ausstanzen der Deckfolie 4 verwendet wird. Auch hier kann aber eine separate Stanzeinrichtung vorteilhaft sein. Bei der gezeigten bevorzugten Ausführungsform mit dem Wechselspiel des Siegelhalters 14 und des Halters 9 ist jedoch das erfindungsgemäße Füllsystem in nur zwei Teilsysteme aufgeteilt, die beispielsweise an zwei gegensinnig laufenden Walzen, Rädern, Tellern oder dergleichen angebracht werden können, und die deshalb einen insbesondere kontinuierlichen Verfahrensablauf ermöglichen.Finally, the filling system according to the invention also comprises a second sealing device 13 according to FIG Fig. 8 , for which here again the seal holder 14 already described is used. Of course, it may also be expedient to provide a separate second sealing device 13. Anyway, following the filling process described above, a cover sheet 4 is applied to the second end face 6 of the cartridge case 2 and sealed by means of the second sealing device 13 on the peripheral edge thereof. In the embodiment according to Fig. 8 Follows the pressing and sealing by means of the plunger 15, wherein the peripheral edge of the seal holder 14 is used for punching out punching the cover sheet 4. Again, however, a separate punching device may be advantageous. In the illustrated preferred embodiment with the interplay of the seal holder 14 and the holder 9, however, the filling system according to the invention is divided into only two subsystems, which can be attached, for example, to two counter-rotating rollers, wheels, plates or the like, and therefore a particular continuous process flow enable.

Claims (15)

  1. Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge (1) with a filling material (7), characterised in that the smoking cartridge (1) comprises a cartridge case (2) and an end-face, air-permeable retention membrane (3), wherein the filling system comprises a filling material store (8), a holder (9) for the cartridge case (2) and a vacuum connection (10) for applying a vacuum to the retention membrane (3), wherein the holder (9) is designed to guide the cartridge case (2) to the filling material store (8) for filling, and wherein the filling system is designed to apply a vacuum to the interior of the cartridge case (2) through the retention membrane (3), thereby effecting a vacuum filling of the cartridge case (2) from the filling material store (8).
  2. Filling system according to claim 1,
    characterised in that the filling system comprises a vacuum sensor (11) for measuring the flow-through resistance of the cartridge case (2).
  3. Filling system according to claim 1 or 2,
    characterised in that the filling system comprises a flow sensor (20) for measuring the air quantity drawn from the cartridge case (2).
  4. Filling system according to any of claims 1 to 3,
    characterised in that the filling system comprises a first sealing device (12) for sealing the retention membrane (3) onto a first end face (5) of the cartridge case (2).
  5. Filling system according to any of claims 1 to 4,
    characterised in that the filling system comprises a second sealing device (13) for sealing a cover film (4) onto a second end face (6) of the cartridge case (2) opposite the retention membrane (3).
  6. Method for filling a smoking cartridge (1) with a filling material (7) by means of a filling system according to any of claims 1 to 5,
    wherein the smoking cartridge (1) used comprises a cartridge case (2) and an end-face, air-permeable retention membrane (3), the method comprising the following steps:
    - the open end face (6) of the empty cartridge case (2), which is opposite the retention membrane (3), is brought into contact with the filling material store (8) by means of the holder (9);
    - a vacuum is applied to the interior of the cartridge case (2) through the retention membrane (3), drawing a part-quantity of the filling material (7) from the filling material store (8) into the interior of the cartridge case (2), the filling material (7) being held back at the retention membrane (3).
  7. Method according to claim 6,
    characterised in that the suction vacuum is measured by means of the vacuum sensor (11) to determine the filling state of the cartridge case (2).
  8. Method according to claim 7,
    characterised in that the suction vacuum is measured continuously or intermittently during the filling process by means of the vacuum sensor (11), and in that the filling process is terminated if a preset limit vacuum is undershot.
  9. Method according to claim 7 or 8,
    characterised in that, following the filling process, the flow-through resistance of the cartridge case (2) is measured by means of the vacuum sensor (11) to determine its filling quality.
  10. Method according to any of claims 6 to 9,
    characterised in that the air quantity drawn from the cartridge case (2) is measured by means of the flow sensor (20) to determine its filling level.
  11. Method according to claim 10,
    characterised in that the air quantity is measured continuously or intermittently during the filling process by means of the flow sensor (20), and in that the filling process is terminated if a preset air quantity is exceeded.
  12. Method according to any of claims 6 to 11,
    characterised in that the open end face (6) of the cartridge case (2) is brought to the surface of the filling material (7) in the filling material store (8), whereupon filling material (7) is drawn from the filling material store (8) into the interior of the cartridge case (2).
  13. Method according to any of claims 6 to 11,
    characterised in that the cartridge case (2) is, with its open end face (6) leading, dipped at least partially and in particular completely into the filling material store (8) for filling.
  14. Method according to any of claims 6 to 13,
    characterised in that the retention membrane (3) is sealed onto the first end face (5) of the cartridge case (2) immediately before the filling process.
  15. Method according to any of claims 6 to 14,
    characterised in that, following the filling process, the cover film (4) is sealed onto the second end face (6) of the cartridge case (2) opposite the retention membrane (3).
EP14003143.6A 2014-09-11 2014-09-11 Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge Not-in-force EP2995209B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14003143.6A EP2995209B1 (en) 2014-09-11 2014-09-11 Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14003143.6A EP2995209B1 (en) 2014-09-11 2014-09-11 Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2995209A1 EP2995209A1 (en) 2016-03-16
EP2995209B1 true EP2995209B1 (en) 2016-12-14

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ID=51542128

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14003143.6A Not-in-force EP2995209B1 (en) 2014-09-11 2014-09-11 Filling system for filling a smoking cartridge

Country Status (1)

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EP (1) EP2995209B1 (en)

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3626734A1 (en) * 1986-08-07 1988-02-11 Bosch Gmbh Robert MACHINE FOR SORTING, FILLING AND SEALING HOLLOW BODIES
US8757169B2 (en) * 2010-12-29 2014-06-24 David Gysland Electronic cigarette refilling apparatus
CN201986689U (en) * 2011-03-28 2011-09-28 深圳市康泰尔电子有限公司 Electronic cigarette

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

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