EP3592159A1 - Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles - Google Patents

Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles

Info

Publication number
EP3592159A1
EP3592159A1 EP18710154.8A EP18710154A EP3592159A1 EP 3592159 A1 EP3592159 A1 EP 3592159A1 EP 18710154 A EP18710154 A EP 18710154A EP 3592159 A1 EP3592159 A1 EP 3592159A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
score line
web
plugwraps
shaped
unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP18710154.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3592159B1 (en
Inventor
Stefano TRENTINI
Fausto Mengoli
Massimo Sartoni
Luca Federici
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
GD SpA
Original Assignee
GD SpA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by GD SpA filed Critical GD SpA
Priority to PL18710154T priority Critical patent/PL3592159T3/en
Publication of EP3592159A1 publication Critical patent/EP3592159A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3592159B1 publication Critical patent/EP3592159B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24C—MACHINES FOR MAKING CIGARS OR CIGARETTES
    • A24C5/00—Making cigarettes; Making tipping materials for, or attaching filters or mouthpieces to, cigars or cigarettes
    • A24C5/47—Attaching filters or mouthpieces to cigars or cigarettes, e.g. inserting filters into cigarettes or their mouthpieces
    • A24C5/471—Attaching filters or mouthpieces to cigars or cigarettes, e.g. inserting filters into cigarettes or their mouthpieces by means of a connecting band
    • A24C5/473—Cutting the connecting band

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a unit and a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles.
  • the unit forming the object of this invention is applicable in particular in machines known as "filter tip attachment" machines used in the tobacco industry to make traditional filter cigarettes, that is, cigarettes which can be smoked by burning the end of the cigarette opposite the filter, or cigarettes of other kinds, such as, for example, electronic cigarettes which can be smoked by electronically heating the end of the cigarette opposite the filter.
  • filters tip attachment machines used in the tobacco industry to make traditional filter cigarettes, that is, cigarettes which can be smoked by burning the end of the cigarette opposite the filter, or cigarettes of other kinds, such as, for example, electronic cigarettes which can be smoked by electronically heating the end of the cigarette opposite the filter.
  • cigarette is used to generally denote a plurality of products or smoking articles such as, for example, cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos and the like, provided with a filter.
  • a "filter tip attachment” machine receives a succession of equispaced cigarette segments from a cutting station located downstream of a forming beam of a machine which makes the cigarettes, known simply as "maker". After being cut into two segments of desired length, the cigarette segments are fed to a withdrawal conveyor by way of a plurality of rotary transfer conveyors, known as conveyor drums. After withdrawing the two cigarette segments, the withdrawal conveyor spaces them axially apart to make room for a double filter.
  • the group thus made up of two cigarette segments and a double filter is joined by a gummed plugwrap fed to the group by another drum and rolled around the group by a rolling device. Next, the group made up of cigarette segments, double filter and plugwrap is cut in half and fed to an outfeed conveyor drum.
  • the gummed plugwraps are made by feeding a paper web which is unwound from a roll and which, after being gummed, is cut into individual plugwraps transversely to its longitudinal direction of extension. Cutting may be performed by known means, such as, for example, a scissor cutter, an impact cutter or a sliding cutter, to divide the web into a sequence of plugwraps.
  • Each plugwrap typically has the shape of a rectangular patch which is wrapped round the double filter and at least a short stretch of each of the cigarette segments abutting against the double filter at either end.
  • Cigarettes of this kind are known from WO2016/156209 and preferably comprise a tear tab allowing the consumer to grip and partly remove the plugwrap.
  • advertisements and/or graphical effects for different marketing purposes can be applied on the removable portion of the plugwrap or the zone of the filter uncovered.
  • an at least partly removable plugwrap means that a flavourant or essence can be associated with the plugwrap to come into contact with the consumer's lips or be perceived by smell before, during or after smoking.
  • removing the plugwrap at least partly from the filter activates a new olfactory and taste experience for the consumer who may decide its intensity and the time when to enjoy it.
  • removing a small piece of plugwrap exposes to the air a specific part of the filter which has been previously treated with a coat of flavourant and which can come into contact with the consumer.
  • the Applicant has found that in order to separate the plugwraps from each other in such a way that after being rolled round the group they define a convenient tab-like grip profile which enables the consumer to grip it and partly remove the plugwrap, it is necessary to make at least one shaped score line.
  • the step of separating the plugwrap and making the shaped stretch would be excessively complex and/or slow relative to the high production speeds required. Moreover, the step of separating the plugwrap and making the shaped stretch would subject the cutting means to excessive strain, thus reducing their working life.
  • This invention therefore has for an aim to provide a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles which allows making plugwraps with a removable portion in an efficient and reliable manner.
  • Another aim of this invention therefore is to provide a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles which is practical and effective and which allows improving the efficiency of the production process.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic cross section of a portion of a filter tip attachment machine comprising a first embodiment of a unit according to this invention, for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles;
  • FIG. 2 is a detail view of the unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles of Figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic cross section of a second embodiment of a unit according to this invention, for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles;
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic cross section of a third embodiment of a unit according to this invention. for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles;
  • FIG. 6 schematically illustrates rod-shaped smoking articles according to this invention during the steps of applying and rolling the plugwraps and cutting the rod-shaped smoking articles provided with the plugwraps.
  • the numeral 100 denotes in its entirety a portion of a filter tip attachment machine, hereinafter referred to simply as machine 100.
  • the machine 100 comprises a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles, denoted in its entirety by the numeral 1 and hereinafter referred to simply as unit 1 .
  • the unit 1 is configured to separate plugwraps 2 from a web 3, preferably of paper, as will become clearer as this description continues, and apply them to rod-shaped smoking articles 101 .
  • smoking articles 101 of the kind illustrated in Figure 6, that is to say, comprising a double filter 102 interposed between two cigarette segments 103 abutting axially against it end to end.
  • the invention is, however, also applicable to smoking articles 101 comprising a single filter abutting axially against one cigarette segment 103.
  • the unit 1 comprises a suction roller 4, adapted to rotate about its axis of rotation 4a in the direction indicated by the arrow F4, and feed means, not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, configured to feed the web 3 on the suction roller 4 along a feed path indicated by the arrow P.
  • the unit 1 is configured to separate a sequence of plugwraps 2 from the web 3 by cyclically generating a transverse cutting line T on the web 3, preferably perpendicular, as illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B.
  • the suction roller 4 is adapted to retain the web 3 and the sequence of plugwraps 2 by suction on its own external surface of rotation 4' while the suction roller 4 rotates.
  • the unit 1 also comprises transfer means 6 configured to transfer a succession of smoking articles 101 towards a suction roller 4 so that each plugwrap 2 is applied tangentially in known manner to a respective smoking article 101 at an applicator station 5.
  • the transfer means 6 comprise a conveyor roller 7 provided with peripheral suction flutes capable of retaining the smoking articles 101 and adapted to rotate about its axis of rotation 7a in the direction indicated by the arrow F7.
  • the peripheral speed of the suction roller 4 is preferably greater than the speed of the web 3 advancing along the feed path so that the plugwraps 2 cut off are spaced at a constant spacing.
  • the spacing of the plugwraps 2 coincides with the spacing of the smoking articles 101 feeding into the conveyor drum 7, so that each plugwrap 2 is applied correctly to the respective smoking article 101 .
  • the suction roller 4 holds the plugwraps 2 by the ungummed side so that as each plugwrap 2 reaches a respective smoking article 101 , that plugwrap is applied in "flag-like manner" to the smoking article 101 .
  • the expression “flag-like manner” means that the plugwrap 2 adheres to the smoking article 101 only by a reduced portion of it; specifically, at the front edge of it. The rest of the plugwrap 2 remains lifted by known means not illustrated, which prevent the plugwrap 2 from drooping and sticking to the outer cylindrical surface of the conveyor roller 7.
  • the machine 100 comprises a rolling drum 8, disposed substantially tangent to the conveyor roller 7 and adapted to rotate about its axis of rotation 8a in the direction indicated by the arrow F8 and configured to receive the succession of smoking articles 101 with plugwraps 2 from the conveyor roller 7 downstream of the applicator station 5, and a rolling device 9 configured to wrap the plugwraps 2 round the smoking articles
  • the smoking articles 101 housed in the peripheral suction flutes of the conveyor drum 7 are transferred to the rolling drum 8 which moves them in the rolling device 9 in such a way as to roll the plugwraps 2 according to known methods.
  • the smoking articles 101 are rolled in the plugwraps 2 inside a rolling channel 9a while advancing along a longitudinal direction of travel of the channel 9a itself.
  • Feeding out of the rolling channel 9a are double cigarettes 104 made by the machine 100, that is, two cigarette segments 103 with a double filter
  • a plugwrap 2 wrapped round the double filter 102 and at least the end portions of the cigarette segments 103.
  • the double cigarettes 104 are first cut into single cigarettes 105 by cutting means of known type, not illustrated, and then subjected to further processing and operations of known type performed in cigarette making machines and not described here since they are outside the scope of this invention.
  • the unit 1 comprises first scoring means 10 configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web 3 or on the plugwrap 2 at least a first, preferably straight score line 1 1 defining at least one end segment T1 of the cutting line T and second scoring means 12 configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web 3 or on the plugwrap 2 at least a second, preferably shaped score line 13.
  • plugwraps 2 have only one straight score line 1 1 and only one shaped score line 13, as illustrated in the two embodiments of Figures 5A-5B.
  • the second scoring means 12 are configured to make the shaped score line 13 at a central portion X of the web 3 or of the plugwraps 2, while the first scoring means 10 are configured to make the straight score line 1 1 at opposite end portions Y of the web 3)or of the plugwraps 2, so that the straight score line 1 1 at least defines opposite end segments T1 of the cutting line T.
  • the step of making the shaped score line 13 and the step of making the straight score line 1 1 can preferably be performed at two longitudinally distinct positions along the feed path so that the shaped score line 13 and the straight score line 1 1 are made to form a single cutting line T.
  • plugwraps 2 having shaped score lines T comprising straight end segments T1 at the opposite end portions Y and a shaped central profile T2 made by the shaped score line 13 at the central portion X.
  • the first scoring means 10 and the second scoring means 12 may be disposed and adapted to be driven in such a way that the shaped score line 13 belongs to the cutting line T.
  • the straight score line 1 1 may define the entire cutting line T the step of making the shaped score line 13 is performed on the web 3 or on the plugwraps 2 at a position along the feed path longitudinally distinct from a position corresponding to the cutting line T.
  • the first scoring means 10 and the second scoring means 12 may be disposed and adapted to be driven in such a way that the shaped score line 13 does not belong to the cutting line T.
  • the second scoring means 12 are configured to make at least one convex portion of the shaped score line 13 suitable for defining a grip tab L of the plugwrap 2.
  • the tab L can be easily gripped by the consumer to at least partly remove a portion of the plugwrap 2 corresponding to the respective part of the central portion X.
  • the central portion X is not gummed, allowing it to be removed by the consumer if necessary, while the opposite end portions Y are at least partly gummed to allow the plugwrap to be fixed to the double filter 102 and to the cigarette segments 103.
  • the web 3 is suitable for making a removable portion of the plugwrap 2, for example without the aforesaid gumming or with gumming suitable for removal.
  • the shaped score line 13 (as shown in Figure 6 for example) has a main direction of extension which is parallel to the cutting line "T" (and relative to which the shaped score line 13 may have undulations, protrusions, etc.). That way, the shaped score line 13 may allow the plugwrap 2 to be partly removed along a tear direction perpendicular to the cutting line "T", that is to say, along a circumferential direction on the cigarette 105.
  • the web 3 preferably has at least one sequence of holes defining at least one line of weakness 14 substantially parallel to the lateral edges 3a of the web 3.
  • the line of weakness 14 divides the web 3 or the plugwraps 2 into at least one first portion, adapted to receive the straight score line 1 1 , and at least one second portion, adapted to receive the shaped score line 13, allowing the second portion to be easily and precisely removed by the consumer.
  • the web 3 comprises two sequences of holes defining two lines of weakness 14 delimiting the central portion X, corresponding to the aforementioned second portion, and the opposite end portions Y, corresponding to the aforementioned first portions; thus, the shaped score line 13 extends between the two lines of weakness 14.
  • the unit 1 my comprise means (not illustrated) for perforating the web 3, configured to make on the web 3 or on the plugwraps 2 the sequences of holes which define the lines of weakness 14.
  • the lines of weakness 14 are ready made on the web 3.
  • the second scoring means 12 preferably comprise at least one punch roller 15 configured to make the shaped score line 13.
  • the punch roller 15 may be disposed tangentially to the suction roller 4, as in the first embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, or disposed tangentially to a punch anvil roller 16, as in the second embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, in such a way that the web 3 is positioned between the punch roller 15 and the punch anvil roller 16.
  • the punch roller 15 may be disposed upstream, as in the embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, or downstream of the first scoring means 10.
  • the second scoring means 12 comprise a first laser scoring device 17 located upstream, as in the third embodiment of the unit 1 illustrated in Figure 4, or downstream of the first scoring means 10, and configured to make the at least one shaped score line 13.
  • the first scoring means 10 comprise a second laser scoring device configured to make the straight score line 1 1 .
  • the shaped score line 13 can advantageously be made before or after making the respective straight score line 1 1 , depending on requirements.
  • the first scoring means 10 preferably comprise a scoring roller 18 rotating about its axis of rotation 18a and having a plurality of circumferentially distributed blades 19 configured to make the straight score line 1 1 .
  • the plurality of blades 19 is configured like a plurality of blade pairs so that the end segments T1 are made simultaneously.
  • the plurality of blades 19 is configured like a plurality of blade pairs and the second scoring means 12 comprise a plurality of punches, each punch being interposed between the blades of a respective blade pair so as to make the at least one shaped score line 13 in such a way that the shaped score line defines a central profile T2 of the cutting line T interposed between and consecutive upon the opposite end segments T1 defined by the straight score line 1 1 .
  • the central shaped profile T2 may be obtained, for example, using shaped blades.
  • This solution is characterized by very high costs and a very high risk of breaking the blades which would require continual maintenance operations.
  • a blade pair with an interposed punch advantageously allows making a scissor-like cut which simultaneously makes the opposite end segments T1 from the outside of the web 3 according to customary scissor cutting methods and, after simultaneously making the segments T1 , allows making the central shaped profile T2 by means of a punch. This avoids the damage to the blade that would occur if the cut were made starting from a single lateral edge 3a in the end portions Y, then interrupted at the central portion X corresponding to the shaped score line 13 and resumed after the central portion X to make the opposite end portion Y.
  • the blade would have to resume the scissor cut which, since it is made by crossing the edges and bending the top blade, would lead to splintering of the blade, which would thus be unable to have starting guide edges because the cut must be complete and blended into the one made by the punch.
  • This invention achieves the preset aims by overcoming the above mentioned disadvantages of the prior art and providing the user with a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles and which allows efficiently making a smoking article provided with a plugwrap having a portion which can be easily removed by a consumer and allowing the removable portion to be used to meet a diversity of production requirements.
  • This invention also provides the user with a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles and which guarantees maximum flexibility and operating and production versatility, allowing each plugwrap to be made with one or more shaped score lines at a cutting line or at a central portion thereof.
  • the filter tip attachment machine comprising the unit according to this invention advantageously allows improving the entire production process and the quality and variety of the rod-shaped smoking articles produced.

Landscapes

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

Abstract

A unit (1) for separating plugwraps (2) and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles (101) is configured to separate from a paper web (3) a sequence of plugwraps (2) by cyclically generating a transverse cutting line (T) on the web (3). The unit (1) comprises transfer means (6) configured to transfer a succession of smoking articles (101) towards a suction roller (4) so that each plugwrap (2) is applied to a respective smoking article (101) at an applicator station (5). The unit (1) comprises first and second scoring means (10, 12) configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web (3) or on the plugwrap (2) at least one straight score line (11) defining at least one end segment (T1) of the cutting line (T) and at least one shaped score line (13).

Description

DESCRIPTION
UNIT AND METHOD FOR SEPARATING PLUGWRAPS AND APPLYING THEM TO ROD-SHAPED SMOKING ARTICLES
Technical field
This invention relates to a unit and a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles.
The unit forming the object of this invention is applicable in particular in machines known as "filter tip attachment" machines used in the tobacco industry to make traditional filter cigarettes, that is, cigarettes which can be smoked by burning the end of the cigarette opposite the filter, or cigarettes of other kinds, such as, for example, electronic cigarettes which can be smoked by electronically heating the end of the cigarette opposite the filter.
Whatever the case, the term "cigarette" is used to generally denote a plurality of products or smoking articles such as, for example, cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos and the like, provided with a filter.
Background art
Generally speaking, a "filter tip attachment" machine receives a succession of equispaced cigarette segments from a cutting station located downstream of a forming beam of a machine which makes the cigarettes, known simply as "maker". After being cut into two segments of desired length, the cigarette segments are fed to a withdrawal conveyor by way of a plurality of rotary transfer conveyors, known as conveyor drums. After withdrawing the two cigarette segments, the withdrawal conveyor spaces them axially apart to make room for a double filter. The group thus made up of two cigarette segments and a double filter is joined by a gummed plugwrap fed to the group by another drum and rolled around the group by a rolling device. Next, the group made up of cigarette segments, double filter and plugwrap is cut in half and fed to an outfeed conveyor drum.
Typically, the gummed plugwraps are made by feeding a paper web which is unwound from a roll and which, after being gummed, is cut into individual plugwraps transversely to its longitudinal direction of extension. Cutting may be performed by known means, such as, for example, a scissor cutter, an impact cutter or a sliding cutter, to divide the web into a sequence of plugwraps.
Each plugwrap typically has the shape of a rectangular patch which is wrapped round the double filter and at least a short stretch of each of the cigarette segments abutting against the double filter at either end.
The Applicant has identified the need to make filter cigarettes provided with outer plugwraps which are at least partly removable. Cigarettes of this kind are known from WO2016/156209 and preferably comprise a tear tab allowing the consumer to grip and partly remove the plugwrap.
Thus, advertisements and/or graphical effects for different marketing purposes can be applied on the removable portion of the plugwrap or the zone of the filter uncovered.
Furthermore, use of an at least partly removable plugwrap means that a flavourant or essence can be associated with the plugwrap to come into contact with the consumer's lips or be perceived by smell before, during or after smoking.
Thus, removing the plugwrap at least partly from the filter activates a new olfactory and taste experience for the consumer who may decide its intensity and the time when to enjoy it.
For example, removing a small piece of plugwrap exposes to the air a specific part of the filter which has been previously treated with a coat of flavourant and which can come into contact with the consumer.
The Applicant has found that in order to separate the plugwraps from each other in such a way that after being rolled round the group they define a convenient tab-like grip profile which enables the consumer to grip it and partly remove the plugwrap, it is necessary to make at least one shaped score line.
The Applicant has then found that by using units of known kind, the step of separating the plugwrap and making the shaped stretch would be excessively complex and/or slow relative to the high production speeds required. Moreover, the step of separating the plugwrap and making the shaped stretch would subject the cutting means to excessive strain, thus reducing their working life.
Disclosure of the invention
This invention therefore has for an aim to provide a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles which allows making plugwraps with a removable portion in an efficient and reliable manner.
Another aim of this invention therefore is to provide a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles which is practical and effective and which allows improving the efficiency of the production process.
The technical purpose indicated and the aims specified are substantially achieved by a unit and a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles, comprising the technical features described in one or more of the appended claims.
The dependent claims, which are incorporated herein by reference, correspond to different embodiments of the invention.
Brief description of the drawings
Further features and advantages of the present invention are more apparent in the non-limiting description which follows of a preferred but non-exclusive embodiment of a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 is a schematic cross section of a portion of a filter tip attachment machine comprising a first embodiment of a unit according to this invention, for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles;
- Figure 2 is a detail view of the unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles of Figure 1 ;
- Figure 3 is a schematic cross section of a second embodiment of a unit according to this invention, for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles;
- Figure 4 is a schematic cross section of a third embodiment of a unit according to this invention; for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles;
- Figures 5A and 5B are two schematic representations of possible embodiments of plugwraps obtained by this invention; and
- Figure 6 schematically illustrates rod-shaped smoking articles according to this invention during the steps of applying and rolling the plugwraps and cutting the rod-shaped smoking articles provided with the plugwraps.
Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention
With reference to Figure 1 , the numeral 100 denotes in its entirety a portion of a filter tip attachment machine, hereinafter referred to simply as machine 100.
The machine 100 comprises a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles, denoted in its entirety by the numeral 1 and hereinafter referred to simply as unit 1 .
The unit 1 is configured to separate plugwraps 2 from a web 3, preferably of paper, as will become clearer as this description continues, and apply them to rod-shaped smoking articles 101 .
In the rest of this description reference is made to smoking articles 101 of the kind illustrated in Figure 6, that is to say, comprising a double filter 102 interposed between two cigarette segments 103 abutting axially against it end to end. The invention is, however, also applicable to smoking articles 101 comprising a single filter abutting axially against one cigarette segment 103.
With reference to Figure 1 , the unit 1 comprises a suction roller 4, adapted to rotate about its axis of rotation 4a in the direction indicated by the arrow F4, and feed means, not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, configured to feed the web 3 on the suction roller 4 along a feed path indicated by the arrow P.
The unit 1 is configured to separate a sequence of plugwraps 2 from the web 3 by cyclically generating a transverse cutting line T on the web 3, preferably perpendicular, as illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B.
The suction roller 4 is adapted to retain the web 3 and the sequence of plugwraps 2 by suction on its own external surface of rotation 4' while the suction roller 4 rotates.
The unit 1 also comprises transfer means 6 configured to transfer a succession of smoking articles 101 towards a suction roller 4 so that each plugwrap 2 is applied tangentially in known manner to a respective smoking article 101 at an applicator station 5.
Preferably, the transfer means 6 comprise a conveyor roller 7 provided with peripheral suction flutes capable of retaining the smoking articles 101 and adapted to rotate about its axis of rotation 7a in the direction indicated by the arrow F7.
The peripheral speed of the suction roller 4 is preferably greater than the speed of the web 3 advancing along the feed path so that the plugwraps 2 cut off are spaced at a constant spacing.
Preferably, the spacing of the plugwraps 2 coincides with the spacing of the smoking articles 101 feeding into the conveyor drum 7, so that each plugwrap 2 is applied correctly to the respective smoking article 101 .
Preferably, the suction roller 4 holds the plugwraps 2 by the ungummed side so that as each plugwrap 2 reaches a respective smoking article 101 , that plugwrap is applied in "flag-like manner" to the smoking article 101 . The expression "flag-like manner" means that the plugwrap 2 adheres to the smoking article 101 only by a reduced portion of it; specifically, at the front edge of it. The rest of the plugwrap 2 remains lifted by known means not illustrated, which prevent the plugwrap 2 from drooping and sticking to the outer cylindrical surface of the conveyor roller 7.
The machine 100 comprises a rolling drum 8, disposed substantially tangent to the conveyor roller 7 and adapted to rotate about its axis of rotation 8a in the direction indicated by the arrow F8 and configured to receive the succession of smoking articles 101 with plugwraps 2 from the conveyor roller 7 downstream of the applicator station 5, and a rolling device 9 configured to wrap the plugwraps 2 round the smoking articles
101 provided with plugwraps 2 transported by the rolling drum 8.
In other words, after applying the plugwrap 2, the smoking articles 101 housed in the peripheral suction flutes of the conveyor drum 7 are transferred to the rolling drum 8 which moves them in the rolling device 9 in such a way as to roll the plugwraps 2 according to known methods.
Preferably, the smoking articles 101 are rolled in the plugwraps 2 inside a rolling channel 9a while advancing along a longitudinal direction of travel of the channel 9a itself.
Feeding out of the rolling channel 9a are double cigarettes 104 made by the machine 100, that is, two cigarette segments 103 with a double filter
102 interposed between them and joined to each other by a plugwrap 2 wrapped round the double filter 102 and at least the end portions of the cigarette segments 103.
Preferably, after leaving the rolling channel 9a, the double cigarettes 104 are first cut into single cigarettes 105 by cutting means of known type, not illustrated, and then subjected to further processing and operations of known type performed in cigarette making machines and not described here since they are outside the scope of this invention.
Advantageously, the unit 1 comprises first scoring means 10 configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web 3 or on the plugwrap 2 at least a first, preferably straight score line 1 1 defining at least one end segment T1 of the cutting line T and second scoring means 12 configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web 3 or on the plugwrap 2 at least a second, preferably shaped score line 13.
In the embodiment described and illustrated here, it is possible to make cyclically and transversely on the web 3 or on the plugwraps 2 at least one straight score line 1 1 defining at least one end segment T1 of the cutting line T and at least one shaped score line 13.
For convenience of description, the plugwraps 2 referred to hereinafter have only one straight score line 1 1 and only one shaped score line 13, as illustrated in the two embodiments of Figures 5A-5B.
With reference to figures 5A-5B, preferably the second scoring means 12 are configured to make the shaped score line 13 at a central portion X of the web 3 or of the plugwraps 2, while the first scoring means 10 are configured to make the straight score line 1 1 at opposite end portions Y of the web 3)or of the plugwraps 2, so that the straight score line 1 1 at least defines opposite end segments T1 of the cutting line T.
In effect, in a first embodiment of the plugwraps 2 obtained using the unit 1 of this invention, illustrated in Figure 5B, the step of making the shaped score line 13 and the step of making the straight score line 1 1 can preferably be performed at two longitudinally distinct positions along the feed path so that the shaped score line 13 and the straight score line 1 1 are made to form a single cutting line T.
It is thus possible to obtain plugwraps 2 having shaped score lines T comprising straight end segments T1 at the opposite end portions Y and a shaped central profile T2 made by the shaped score line 13 at the central portion X.
Advantageously, therefore, the first scoring means 10 and the second scoring means 12 may be disposed and adapted to be driven in such a way that the shaped score line 13 belongs to the cutting line T.
Otherwise, in a second embodiment of the plugwraps 2 obtained using the unit 1 of this invention, illustrated in Figure 5A, the straight score line 1 1 may define the entire cutting line T the step of making the shaped score line 13 is performed on the web 3 or on the plugwraps 2 at a position along the feed path longitudinally distinct from a position corresponding to the cutting line T.
It is thus possible to obtain rectangular or square plugwraps 2 having straight score lines T comprising straight end segments T1 and a straight central profile T3 made by the straight score line 1 1 , while the shaped score line 13 is made at a central position of the central portion X of the web or of the plugwrap 2.
Advantageously, therefore, the first scoring means 10 and the second scoring means 12 may be disposed and adapted to be driven in such a way that the shaped score line 13 does not belong to the cutting line T.
Preferably, the second scoring means 12 are configured to make at least one convex portion of the shaped score line 13 suitable for defining a grip tab L of the plugwrap 2.
Advantageously, once the plugwrap 2 has been rolled on the smoking articles 101 and the double cigarettes 104 have been divided into single cigarettes 105, the tab L can be easily gripped by the consumer to at least partly remove a portion of the plugwrap 2 corresponding to the respective part of the central portion X.
In effect, in the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the central portion X is not gummed, allowing it to be removed by the consumer if necessary, while the opposite end portions Y are at least partly gummed to allow the plugwrap to be fixed to the double filter 102 and to the cigarette segments 103. Generally speaking, at the shaped score line 13, the web 3 is suitable for making a removable portion of the plugwrap 2, for example without the aforesaid gumming or with gumming suitable for removal.
In one embodiment, the shaped score line 13 (as shown in Figure 6 for example) has a main direction of extension which is parallel to the cutting line "T" (and relative to which the shaped score line 13 may have undulations, protrusions, etc.). That way, the shaped score line 13 may allow the plugwrap 2 to be partly removed along a tear direction perpendicular to the cutting line "T", that is to say, along a circumferential direction on the cigarette 105.
To facilitate partial removal of the plugwrap 2 by the consumer, the web 3 preferably has at least one sequence of holes defining at least one line of weakness 14 substantially parallel to the lateral edges 3a of the web 3. Advantageously, the line of weakness 14 divides the web 3 or the plugwraps 2 into at least one first portion, adapted to receive the straight score line 1 1 , and at least one second portion, adapted to receive the shaped score line 13, allowing the second portion to be easily and precisely removed by the consumer.
In particular in the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the web 3 comprises two sequences of holes defining two lines of weakness 14 delimiting the central portion X, corresponding to the aforementioned second portion, and the opposite end portions Y, corresponding to the aforementioned first portions; thus, the shaped score line 13 extends between the two lines of weakness 14.
In one possible embodiment of it, the unit 1 my comprise means (not illustrated) for perforating the web 3, configured to make on the web 3 or on the plugwraps 2 the sequences of holes which define the lines of weakness 14. Alternatively, the lines of weakness 14 are ready made on the web 3.
With reference to the first and second embodiments of the unit 1 illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the second scoring means 12 preferably comprise at least one punch roller 15 configured to make the shaped score line 13.
More specifically, the punch roller 15 may be disposed tangentially to the suction roller 4, as in the first embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, or disposed tangentially to a punch anvil roller 16, as in the second embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, in such a way that the web 3 is positioned between the punch roller 15 and the punch anvil roller 16.
Still more preferably, the punch roller 15 may be disposed upstream, as in the embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, or downstream of the first scoring means 10.
Preferably, the second scoring means 12 comprise a first laser scoring device 17 located upstream, as in the third embodiment of the unit 1 illustrated in Figure 4, or downstream of the first scoring means 10, and configured to make the at least one shaped score line 13.
Preferably, in a possible embodiment not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the first scoring means 10 comprise a second laser scoring device configured to make the straight score line 1 1 .
From the foregoing description, it is clear that the shaped score line 13 can advantageously be made before or after making the respective straight score line 1 1 , depending on requirements.
As illustrated in the three embodiments shown in Figures 2-4, the first scoring means 10 preferably comprise a scoring roller 18 rotating about its axis of rotation 18a and having a plurality of circumferentially distributed blades 19 configured to make the straight score line 1 1 .
Preferably, in a possible embodiment of this invention, not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the plurality of blades 19 is configured like a plurality of blade pairs so that the end segments T1 are made simultaneously.
Still more preferably, in a possible embodiment of this invention, not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the plurality of blades 19 is configured like a plurality of blade pairs and the second scoring means 12 comprise a plurality of punches, each punch being interposed between the blades of a respective blade pair so as to make the at least one shaped score line 13 in such a way that the shaped score line defines a central profile T2 of the cutting line T interposed between and consecutive upon the opposite end segments T1 defined by the straight score line 1 1 .
Preferably, in this case, the central shaped profile T2 may be obtained, for example, using shaped blades. This solution, however, is characterized by very high costs and a very high risk of breaking the blades which would require continual maintenance operations.
The use of a blade pair with an interposed punch, on the other hand, advantageously allows making a scissor-like cut which simultaneously makes the opposite end segments T1 from the outside of the web 3 according to customary scissor cutting methods and, after simultaneously making the segments T1 , allows making the central shaped profile T2 by means of a punch. This avoids the damage to the blade that would occur if the cut were made starting from a single lateral edge 3a in the end portions Y, then interrupted at the central portion X corresponding to the shaped score line 13 and resumed after the central portion X to make the opposite end portion Y. In effect, at this point, the blade would have to resume the scissor cut which, since it is made by crossing the edges and bending the top blade, would lead to splintering of the blade, which would thus be unable to have starting guide edges because the cut must be complete and blended into the one made by the punch.
This invention achieves the preset aims by overcoming the above mentioned disadvantages of the prior art and providing the user with a unit for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles and which allows efficiently making a smoking article provided with a plugwrap having a portion which can be easily removed by a consumer and allowing the removable portion to be used to meet a diversity of production requirements.
This invention also provides the user with a method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles and which guarantees maximum flexibility and operating and production versatility, allowing each plugwrap to be made with one or more shaped score lines at a cutting line or at a central portion thereof.
Moreover, the filter tip attachment machine comprising the unit according to this invention advantageously allows improving the entire production process and the quality and variety of the rod-shaped smoking articles produced.

Claims

1 . A unit (1 ) for separating plugwraps (2) and applying them to rod- shaped smoking articles (101 ), comprising:
- a suction roller (4) adapted to rotate about its own axis of rotation (4a),
- feeding means configured to feed a web (3), preferably of paper, on the suction roller (4) along a feed path,
wherein the unit (1 ) is configured to separate from the web (3) a sequence of plugwraps (2) by cyclically generating a transverse cutting line (T) on the web (3), and wherein the suction roller (4) is adapted to retain the web (3) and the sequence of plugwraps (2) by suction on its own external surface of rotation (4') while the suction roller (4) rotates,
- transfer means (6) configured to transfer a succession of smoking articles (101 ) towards the suction roller (4) so that each plugwrap (2) is applied to a respective smoking article (101 ) at an applicator station (5); characterized in that it comprises first scoring means (10) configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web (3) or on the plugwrap (2) at least a first, straight score line (1 1 ) defining at least one end segment (T1 ) of the cutting line (T) and second scoring means (1 2) configured to make cyclically and transversely on the web (3) or on the plugwrap (2) at least a second, shaped score line (13).
2. The unit (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the second scoring means (12) are configured to make at least one shaped score line (13) at a central portion (X) of the web (3) or of the plugwraps (2), and wherein the first scoring means (10) are configured to make at least one straight score line (1 1 ) at opposite end portions (Y) of the web (3) or of the plugwraps (2), the at least on straight score line (1 1 ) at least defining opposite end segments (T1 ) of the cutting line (T).
3. The unit (1 ) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second scoring means (12) comprise a first laser scoring device (17) located upstream or downstream of the first scoring means (10) and configured to make the at least one shaped score line (13).
4. The unit (1 ) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second scoring means (12) comprise at least one punch roller (15) configured to make the at least one shaped score line (13), the at least one punch roller (15) being disposed tangentially to the suction roller (4) or disposed tangentially to a punch anvil roller (16), the web (3) being positioned between the punch roller (15) and the punch anvil roller (16).
5. The unit (1 ) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one punch roller (15) is disposed upstream or downstream of the first scoring means
(10).
6. The unit (1 ) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first scoring means (10) comprise a second laser scoring device configured to make the at least one straight score line (1 1 ).
7. The unit (1 ) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the web (3) has at least one sequence of holes defining at least one line of weakness (14) substantially parallel to lateral edges (3a) of the web (3), the at least one line of weakness (14) dividing the web (3) or the plugwraps (2) into at least one first portion, adapted to receive the at least one straight score line (1 1 ), and at least one second portion, adapted to receive the at least one shaped score line (13).
8. The unit (1 ) according to claim 7, when dependent on claim 2, comprising two sequences of holes defining two lines of weakness (14) delimiting the central portion (X) and the opposite end portions (Y), respectively, the second scoring means (12) being configured to make the at least one shaped score line (13) which extends between the two lines of weakness (14).
9. The unit (1 ) according to claim 7 or 8, comprising means for perforating the web (3), configured to make on the web (3) or on the plugwraps (2) the at least one sequence of holes.
10. The unit (1 ) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second scoring means (12) are configured to make at least one convex portion of the at least one shaped score line (13) suitable for defining a grip tab (L) of the plugwrap (2).
1 1 . The unit (1 ) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first scoring means (10) comprise a scoring roller (18) rotating about its own axis of rotation (18a) and having a plurality of circumferentially distributed blades (19) configured to make the at least one straight score line (1 1 ).
12. The unit (1 ) according to claim 1 1 , when dependent on claim 2, wherein the plurality of blades (19) is configured like a plurality of blade pairs and wherein the second scoring means (12) comprise a plurality of punches, each punch being interposed between the blades of a respective blade pair in such a way as to make the at least one shaped score line (13), the at least one shaped score line (13) defining a central shaped profile (T2) of the cutting line (T) interposed between and consecutive upon the opposite end segments (T1 ) defined by the at least one straight score line (1 1 ).
13. The unit (1 ) according to one or more of claims 1 -10, wherein the first scoring means (10) and the second scoring means (12) are disposed and adapted to be driven in such a way that the at least one shaped score line (13) does not belong to the cutting line (T).
14. A method for separating plugwraps (2) and applying them to rod- shaped smoking articles (101 ), comprising the following steps.:
- feeding a web (3), preferably of paper along a feed path,
- cyclically separating from the web (3) a sequence of plugwraps (2) by means of a cutting line (T) transverse to the web (3),
- retaining the web (3) and the sequence of plugwraps (2) by suction on an external surface of rotation (4') of a suction roller (4), - feeding a succession of smoking articles (101 ) towards the suction roller (4) so that each plugwrap (2) is applied to a respective smoking article (101 ) at an applicator station (5);
characterized in that it comprises the following steps:
- cyclically and transversely scoring the web (3) or the plugwraps (2) to make at least one first, straight, score line (1 1 ) defining at least one end segment (T1 ) of the cutting line (T),
- cyclically and transversely scoring the web (3) or the plugwraps (2) to make at least one second, shaped, score line (13).
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the step of making the at least one shaped score line (13) and the step of making the at least one straight score line (1 1 ) are performed at two longitudinally distinct positions along the feed path, the at least one shaped score line (13) and the at least one straight score line (1 1 ) being made to form a single cutting line (T).
16. The method according to claim 14, wherein the step of making the at least one shaped score line (13) and the step of making the at least one straight score line (1 1 ) are performed at the same longitudinal position along the feed path, the at least one shaped score line (13) and the at least one straight score line (1 1 ) being made to form a single cutting line (T).
17. The method according to claim 14, wherein the at least one straight score line (1 1 ) defines the cutting line (T) and the step of making the at least one shaped score line (13) is performed on the web (3) or on the plugwraps (2) at a position along the feed path longitudinally distinct from a position corresponding to the cutting line (T).
18. The method according to one or more of claims 14-17 wherein the at least one shaped score line (13) is made at a central portion (X) of the web (3) or of the plugwraps (2), and wherein the at least one straight score line (1 1 ) is made at opposite end portions (Y) of the web (3) or of the plugwraps (2), the at least on straight score line (1 1 ) defining opposite end segments (T1 ) of the cutting line (T), the opposite end segments (T1 ) being made simultaneously.
19. A filter tip attachment machine (100), comprising:
- a unit (1 ) according to one or more of claims 1 -1 3,
- a rolling drum (8) configured to receive the succession of smoking articles (101 ) provided with plugwraps (2) from the transfer means (6) downstream of the applicator station (5),
- a rolling device (9) configured to wrap the plugwraps (2) around the smoking articles (101 ) provided with plugwraps (2) and transported by the rolling drum (8).
EP18710154.8A 2017-03-08 2018-03-06 Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles Active EP3592159B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL18710154T PL3592159T3 (en) 2017-03-08 2018-03-06 Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102017000025620A IT201700025620A1 (en) 2017-03-08 2017-03-08 Unit and method for the separation of clamps and for their application to bar-shaped smoking articles
PCT/IB2018/051434 WO2018163064A1 (en) 2017-03-08 2018-03-06 Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3592159A1 true EP3592159A1 (en) 2020-01-15
EP3592159B1 EP3592159B1 (en) 2021-05-05

Family

ID=59683644

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18710154.8A Active EP3592159B1 (en) 2017-03-08 2018-03-06 Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3592159B1 (en)
IT (1) IT201700025620A1 (en)
PL (1) PL3592159T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2018163064A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB201419838D0 (en) * 2014-11-07 2014-12-24 British American Tobacco Co Smoking article assembly machine and method of making a smoking article
EP4381966A1 (en) * 2022-12-05 2024-06-12 Philip Morris Products S.A. Method in making a rod-shaped article comprising a removable segment and apparatus for use in the production of such an article

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT1246830B (en) * 1990-07-10 1994-11-28 Gd Spa DEVICE FOR THE CROSS-CUTTING IN CUTTINGS OF A MOVING BELT OF CONTINUOUS MOTION ALONG A DETERMINED PATH.
CN201064177Y (en) * 2007-06-28 2008-05-28 刘江鸿 Cigarette with sanitation protecting structure
KR101727455B1 (en) * 2012-10-22 2017-04-17 브리티시 아메리칸 토바코 (인베스트먼츠) 리미티드 Cutting apparatus for use in the tobacco industry
GB201419838D0 (en) * 2014-11-07 2014-12-24 British American Tobacco Co Smoking article assembly machine and method of making a smoking article
DE102015200711B4 (en) * 2015-01-19 2016-09-01 Hauni Maschinenbau Gmbh Cutting a tipping paper strip
WO2016156209A1 (en) * 2015-03-27 2016-10-06 Philip Morris Products S.A. Aerosol generating article having flavourant and removable tipping wrapper portion
KR20180031756A (en) * 2015-07-22 2018-03-28 제이티 인터내셔널 소시에떼 아노님 Smoking article

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2018163064A1 (en) 2018-09-13
PL3592159T3 (en) 2021-10-11
IT201700025620A1 (en) 2018-09-08
EP3592159B1 (en) 2021-05-05

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2545791B2 (en) Filter-tipped cigarette rolling device and method
EP4295708A2 (en) Machine and method for making rod-shaped smoking articles
JP6383874B2 (en) Smoking article assembly machine and method for manufacturing smoking article
EP3231300A1 (en) Method for manufacturing filtered cigarette
EP3592159B1 (en) Unit and method for separating plugwraps and applying them to rod-shaped smoking articles
WO2019244003A1 (en) Method for processing a web of wrapping material used to make smoking articles
CN109843090B (en) Process and apparatus for preparing semi-finished tipping paper blank
US3058475A (en) Cigarette making machine
RU2707044C2 (en) Transportation method and rod-like product transportation device
JP2019525734A5 (en)
EP3426065B1 (en) Device and method for rolling cigarettes, filter cigarettes or filters
EP2999362B1 (en) Apparatus for making smokers' articles
EP2532257B1 (en) Transport drum for the tobacco processing industry
US3518999A (en) Mouthpiece tobacco articles
US2013202A (en) Means for the production of tobacco articles
WO2015001316A1 (en) Curling machine
IT201800004018A1 (en) PROCEDURE AND EQUIPMENT FOR OBTAINING A SMOKING ITEM, AND A SMOKING ITEM SO OBTAINED
GB446210A (en) Improvements in or relating to the manufacture of filter tips for cigarettes
GB703982A (en) Improvements in or relating to a method of and apparatus for making mouthpiece cigarettes
GB1099503A (en) Machines for wrapping block-shaped articles

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20190927

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20201120

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1388692

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210515

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602018016633

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1388692

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210805

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210806

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210905

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210805

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210906

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20210505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602018016633

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20220208

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210905

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20220306

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20220331

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220306

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220331

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220306

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220306

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220331

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220331

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220331

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240327

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20180306

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Payment date: 20240221

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210505