JP2019129819A - Production line in tobacco industry and inspection method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

To facilitate works performed by a person in charge of inspection and maintenance works of a production line or machinery in a tobacco industry.SOLUTION: A method for inspecting at least some operations in a production line 1 comprises use of a probe 10 comprising a processor, a memory, a data exchange module and a power source and being formed into a shape of a smoking article. The line 1 comprises a path P for moving a smoking article thereon, a control unit 14, and a work unit arranged along the movement path P, the work unit comprises a tag T including a reading/writing memory and a data exchange interface for transmitting and receiving data by radio communication. The method comprises a step for putting the probe 10 into the line 1 in a put-in position for putting the probe along the movement path P, and a step for performing data transfer between the probe 10 and the tag T of the work unit when the probe 10 is at an operation position along the movement path P.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a production line in the tobacco industry, as well as an inspection method thereof.

  Production lines in the tobacco industry are aimed at processing smoking articles.

  The production line has a work unit, which is removable from the rest of the line so that it can be replaced during maintenance and repair work. In many cases, each work unit will need to be adjusted mechanically or electronically by setting the appropriate parameters, which may be done during machine inspections prior to shipment or It may be carried out during maintenance or repair work after installation.

  In this context, a need arises to facilitate the work of personnel inspecting and maintaining production lines (or machines) in the tobacco industry.

  Patent documents 1 and 2, which are patent documents in the name of the present applicant, are cigarette packing machines, and an identification code for identifying the component is stored in each of the important components. A cigarette packing machine provided with a passive transponder is described. Each transponder identification code is read by a corresponding antenna located along the processing line. The purpose of this system is to allow confirmation that the critical components of a line are effectively original components. Therefore, this technical solution has several drawbacks because it cannot be diagnosed and the structure of the line (or machine) is complicated.

  Patent Document 3, which is a patent document, is an apparatus having the shape of a part of a cigarette (cigarette segment), provided with an acceleration sensor, and the acceleration received by a part of the cigarette described above during processing in a machine. An apparatus is described that is configured to be fed to a cigarette making machine for diagnostic purposes to measure. However, since this solution does not allow line inspection with reference to specific components in the line, the solution also has its own disadvantages, and in addition, the solution is particularly accurate and accurate. It is not possible to diagnose malfunctions in machine components.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a production line in the tobacco industry in which the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art are solved, and an inspection method thereof. This object is achieved by a line and method according to one or more of the appended claims.

  Specifically, the present disclosure aims to provide a production line in the tobacco industry that facilitates maintenance and inspection work of specific components of the line, as well as, but not limited to, a configuration method. Mention the context of predictive diagnosis for the purpose of element maintenance.

  The present disclosure provides a method for inspecting the operation of at least a portion of a production line in the tobacco industry.

  In certain embodiments, the inspection is performed using a probe having the shape of a smoking article. In one possible embodiment, the probe includes a processor, a memory, a data exchange module, and a power source.

  A line includes (defines) a travel route for a smoking article (note that the travel route is a production route, and in the present disclosure, the expressions “movement route” and “production route” are used equivalently. ). The line includes a control unit, which in some embodiments manages the operation of the line.

  The line further includes (at least one) work unit. In an embodiment, the work unit is located along the movement path. In at least one embodiment, the line may comprise a plurality of working units arranged in series and / or in parallel with each other with respect to the movement path.

  The unit of work includes a tag. In at least one embodiment, the tag has a read / write memory and a data exchange interface. Preferably, the data exchange interface is configured to transmit and receive data via wireless communication. In a (preferred) embodiment, the data exchange interface is configured to send and receive data via short-range communication, and in at least one embodiment, the data exchange interface is manufactured according to RFID technology. In certain embodiments, the tag may be an RFID tag or an RFID chip, and in certain embodiments, the RFID tag (or chip) is passive.

  In this disclosure, the term “tag” is used to indicate an electronic component that is permanently and uniquely combined with a work unit. The tag can be a transponder.

  In this disclosure, the term “line” (production line in the tobacco industry) refers to interconnected or interacting to perform processing on a (single) machine or tobacco product. Used to refer to multiple machines.

  In the present disclosure, the term “probe” is also placed in at least one position on the production (movement) path so as to be optionally processed by the line (not necessarily subjected to processing by the line). The probe has the shape of a smoking article (finished product or semi-finished product). For example, the probe can have the shape of a cigarette filter, cigarette, cigarette group (bundle), or cigarette packet.

  It should be noted that the probe preferably allows data exchange with the tag of the working unit by means of a short distance data exchange system.

  Variations where the data exchange interface is configured to send and receive data via medium range communication are also possible. In addition, or alternatively, a medium range antenna may also be used to exchange data with the tags of one or more work units of the line (or of the machine or unit of the line). In these cases, the tag of each work unit can be read or written to the tag of each work unit without using a probe and without removing each work unit from the machine. In general, the tag (chip) of a working unit may be read by a specially configured electronic device (in addition to or instead of a probe), and in one possible embodiment, the electronic device May be provided with a data reading element designed to be moved closer to the tag or directed in the direction of the tag (eg, according to IR data exchange technology, Bluetooth® connection, or other technology). .

  Further, in this disclosure, the term “working unit” refers to a component of a line that is detachably combined with the rest of the line so that it can be removed / replaced. Used to indicate. Preferably, the work unit is removable as a unit. The component may be a single element or a group of elements forming a system or apparatus. In addition, the work unit can be adjusted. Specifically, the work unit can be adjusted by setting at least one adjustment parameter. Depending on the situation (eg, depending on the type of work unit), the work unit may be adjusted mechanically or using an electrical signal. For example, if the work unit is a photocell, it may be remotely adjusted using a signal and the work unit applies pressure to, for example, a smoking article (eg, to contain or hold a smoking article) A mechanical part that is configured to interact mechanically with the smoking article (and thus with the probe), mechanical adjustments are made by acting directly (mechanically) on the part itself. May be.

  Preferably, the work units can be individually adjusted. This means that the setting of the adjustment parameters has a direct effect on the operation of the work unit, but not directly on the rest of the line. The work unit can be adjusted independently. This can be adjusted by working only on the parameters (or multiple parameters) of the work unit itself, without working on the adjustment parameters of other work units or other parts of the machine. Preferably means that the work unit does not contain independently adjustable components on the one hand (i.e. the work unit does not contain subcomponents that itself constitute the work unit).

  Production lines in the tobacco industry may comprise one or more of the following machines or units: a unit for cigarette filter manufacture; for cigarette manufacture (connected to a filter manufacturing unit and receiving a filter from the filter manufacturing unit) A unit for storing a cigarette received from a cigarette manufacturing unit; a cigarette packing unit (connected to a storage unit or a cigarette manufacturing unit and receiving a cigarette); Or cellophane wrapping unit (wrapping with cellophane); cartoning unit (connected to cellophane wrapping unit to form a carton of cigarette packets).

  The probe shape varies depending on the inspection target portion of the line, that is, the unit to which the probe is to be inserted or the portion of the unit.

  For example, to inspect a cigarette manufacturing unit, the probe may have a shape like a cigarette filter, and to inspect a storage unit, the probe may have a shape like a cigarette, and a cigarette packing unit To inspect the probe may have a shape like a cigarette or cigarette group, and to inspect the cellophane wrapping unit, the probe may have a shape like a cigarette packet and inspect the cartoning unit Thus, the probe may have a shape like a cigarette packet (cellophane wrapped) or a group of aligned packets.

  In particular, for cigarette packing machines, the machine receives loose cigarettes from the sending end, and after passing through a series of processing stations, sends out completed cigarette packets from the sending end. At least one station of the cigarette packing machine receives individual cigarettes, while at least one of the other stations of the machine receives cigarettes (bunches). Therefore, in the machine, a probe having a shape like a cigarette can be introduced from the entrance of the first station, and a probe having a shape like a cigarette group (bundle) can be introduced from the entrance of at least one other station. Can be input.

  The method according to the present disclosure includes a step of loading a probe into a line from a loading position located along a movement (production) path.

  The method further comprises the step of transferring data between the probe and the tag of the working unit when the probe is located at an operating position along the movement path. Note that the operation position may coincide with the input position, or may be a position advanced from the input position along the movement (production) route.

  Thus, the method according to the present disclosure allows data to be easily written to a work unit, and the data is removed from the machine where the work unit was originally installed, eg installed on another machine, replaced or repaired. If so, it follows the unit of work. The method also makes this information equally easy to read. This facilitates the maintenance check of each work unit that is a specific component of the line.

The following is a list of data items that can be stored in the tag of the unit of work (and so to speak, make up its “identification card”), using non-limiting examples:
・ Unit unit identification code;
-Date of manufacture of the work unit;
• the date of one or more adjustments made to the unit of work;
The value of one or more adjustment parameters set during one or more adjustments made to the work unit;
-Probe activation date;
-Operation unit operating time interval;
-The type of machine or machines on which the work unit operates;
The position of the work unit in one or more machines in which the work unit is operated;
Diagnostic data associated with the work unit obtained during the step of diagnosing the line;
One or more of the data items stored in the line control unit.

  The tag (chip) of the work unit can further store a time stamp indicating the time when one or more of the data items listed above or another data item is stored.

  In certain embodiments, other data items (eg, one or more of the items listed above) may be stored in a tag (chip).

  According to one aspect of the present disclosure, within the tag (chip), data indicating specifications provided by the manufacturer of the machine (or work unit), such as operating limits and tolerances, data relating to calibration or testing, Can be stored.

  In this context, the inspection method according to the present disclosure can be suitably used under different application situations.

  The first application of the inspection method is to comply with the standards for smoking articles (eg packets) or to verify the interaction between smoking articles and machines (manufacturing machines or lines) Confirmation of machine or production line design).

  The second application status of the inspection method is, for example, confirmation of the operation of the machine (by the machine or line manufacturer) before and / or after shipment to the factory where the machine is installed.

  The third application status of the inspection method is the operation of the line after a certain amount of time (especially for the purpose of verifying compliance with the standards for smoking articles or the interaction between smoking articles and machines). Confirmation, which is intended to be performed after the line or machine has been in operation for some period of time (eg, a predetermined) and may be performed by the user of the line.

  In this context, each work unit itself can easily have information on the manufacture of the work unit (eg date and location), information on the manufacturer's specifications, and later information on inspection and maintenance (eg details of each adjustment work and Date) and after a certain amount of time has elapsed (at any time and without necessarily stopping the machine), the information can be easily read out. Considering “past” data, and the unit of work has been replaced with a “used” unit of work that has been removed from the new unit of work or other machines over time. It is possible to diagnose machine operation taking into account the possibility (known as "

  In an embodiment, the control unit may be provided with a machine operation counter, and when a packet type probe is inserted into the machine, the probe increments and writes the number of hours of operation to the tag of each work unit. This makes it possible to store information about the actual operating time of each work unit in the tag of each work unit itself.

  Also, the tag stores the date of manufacture of the work unit (which constitutes the “birth date” of the work unit), and the information item is based on the absolute time (plan) regardless of the actual operation time (plan) Useful for maintenance.

  In addition, the type and position of each machine in which the work unit is operated may be further written (stored) in the tag. In addition, the position of the work unit in the machine may be further written (stored) in the tag.

  In addition, when the probe passes, some of the data stored in the control unit may be further written (stored) in the tag.

  Thus, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the probe performs a function similar to that of a logbook manager. In effect, the probe can read from and write to the tag of each unit of work, and considering this, the tag of the unit of work is rewritten, integrated into the unit of work. Functions like a possible logbook.

  In certain embodiments, the method described above comprises feeding the probe along a travel path, and the loading position is located upstream of the operating position along the travel path.

  Therefore, when the probe passes through a movement (adjustment) path inside the machine (if necessary, at a speed slower than the reference speed), the probe exchanges data with the tag of each work unit (for example, 2-3). You may pass through (centimeters away).

  In at least one embodiment, the probe is sensorized.

  According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the (sensorized) probe is designed to facilitate the work of the installer or tester when setting up (adjusting) the work unit (or units). Yes. In this case, the machine is (preferably) stationary during the work.

  Since the probe writes data to the tag of the adjustment target work unit, adjustment is performed along the movement (production) path so that the data exchange module of the adjustment target work unit and the tag of the operation unit are in communication. It is placed in the operating position in the target work unit.

  The operator acts on a mechanical or electrical adjustment element until the value of one or more adjustment parameters of the work unit takes a desired value (eg a value within a preset range provided by the manufacturer). The adjustment parameter is adjusted by changing.

  When the adjustment is completed, the set value of the adjustment parameter is stored in the tag of the work unit, preferably with a time stamp indicating the date on which the adjustment was made. At this time, other information such as information indicating the ambient temperature, humidity, or other variables in the machine at the time of adjustment (in this case, the probe is provided with a corresponding temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or other sensor) Further, it may be stored.

  In an embodiment, the probe itself measures and transmits a signal indicating the value of the adjustment parameter measured in real time by the probe, so that the probe provides feedback to the operator regarding the adjustment action performed by the operator. I will provide a.

  For example, if the working unit is a head configured to hold a cigarette group, and the parameter to be adjusted is the pressure applied by the head to the cigarette group, the probe used has a shape like a cigarette group (bundle). The probe is provided with a sensor for measuring the pressure applied to the probe. In this case, the operator places the probe in the head (or throws the probe upstream of the head in the machine and moves it until the probe is positioned in the head), then moves the head (mechanically) The pressure applied to the probe by the head (corresponding to the pressure that the head will apply to the cigarette group during use) is changed. During the operation, the probe measures the adjustment parameters in real time, and the adjustment parameters are displayed on a screen (for example, a graphical interface connected to the control unit, or a tablet or other device in communication with the probe) for the operator to see the adjustment parameters. To the electronic device). The operator sets the adjustment parameter to a desired value in accordance with the displayed value and its variations. Finally, the operator indicates that the adjustment is completed by setting the value in the work unit and storing it in the tag of the work unit as described above.

  Similarly, the probe may be used in the step of verifying the unit of work, in which case the probe reads the memory of the unit of work tag and the data stored in the memory (eg previously executed for the unit of work). A step of reading a past value of one or a plurality of adjustment parameters set during the adjustment step is executed.

  In certain embodiments, the step of confirming the work unit further comprises the step of the probe (which in this case needs to be sensored) detecting the current value of the one or more work unit adjustment parameters. Including. This makes it possible to compare the past value and the current value of the adjustment parameters of the work unit (for example, for the purpose of diagnosis, for example for carrying out predictive maintenance).

  According to another aspect of the present disclosure, if the probe is provided with an appropriate sensor, the smoking article is moved to obtain information about the mechanical or thermal stress experienced by the smoking article during processing or In order to obtain information about the state or operation of one or more machine parts that interact during processing along the production) path, the probe is in the machine as if it were a smoking article being processed. (Preferably with the machine operating at its reference speed).

  Thus, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the probe can serve at least two different functions, i.e. (i) read data from or write data to a tag of one or more work units in a line The ability to inspect the line or part thereof, and (ii) processing the probe in the machine and obtaining data that is temporally correlated with the line action, thereby This is a function to analyze the diagnosis.

  These functions may be performed by one and the same probe, or two probes of two different types having technical characteristics specific to the different functions, for example test for function (i) It may be performed by a probe and a diagnostic probe for function (ii).

  In the inspection function, the probe constitutes a link or a communication interface between the control unit and the tag of each work unit.

  Data captured by the probe may be processed by the probe itself or by a control unit or other electronic device (eg, a tablet for setting up a line or machine).

  Accordingly, the present disclosure further provides a production line in the tobacco industry.

  The line comprises a machine (or machines) for continuously processing successive smoking articles, the machine being a processing unit or station.

  The line (or machine) defines a travel (production) path for smoking articles.

  A machine (or line) includes one or more work units. In some embodiments, the work unit is located along the path of travel of the smoking article.

  The unit of work includes a tag. The tag has a read / write memory and a data exchange interface.

  The machine (line) includes a control unit that manages the operation of the (line) machine.

  In some embodiments, the machine (line) includes a probe having a shape like a smoking article.

  The probe includes a processor, a memory, a data exchange module, and a power source.

  The tag data exchange interface and the probe data exchange module are configured to transfer data between the probe and the work unit tag at the probe operating position. Preferably, the operation position is located along the movement path.

  The line may also include one or more of the following machines or units for the treatment of smoking articles: a unit for producing cigarette filters (filter making machine); a unit for storing and / or feeding filters. Units for cigarette production ("cigarette making machine" combined with "filter chip attachment"); units for storing and / or feeding cigarettes; units for packing cigarettes ("packing machine") A unit for packet storage; a unit for packet wrapping (“cellophane wrapping machine”); a unit for carton production (“cartoning machine”); a case packing unit (“case packing machine”); a palletizer.

  Note the following points about the machine (or unit) for packing cigarettes.

  A cigarette packing machine ("packing machine") receives as input the (continuous) unaligned cigarette inflow from a cigarette making machine and uses a hopper to form an aligned cigarette group known as a "bundle" To do.

  A possible position for loading the probe into the cigarette packing machine is downstream of the hopper, in which case the probe has a shape like an aligned cigarette group or cigarette bundle.

  The packing machine includes at least one carousel (wrapping wheel), and in certain embodiments, the work unit includes a plurality of carousels arranged in series along a travel path. Corresponding to each carousel, the packing machine has a plurality of heads, and each head is connected to the carousel and rotates integrally with the carousel. Each head in the first carousel receives a (aligned) cigarette group and, in conjunction with an appropriate instrument, wraps foil paper and a collar around the (aligned) cigarette group. The second carousel individually receives a plurality of objects to be processed (a bundle of cigarettes wrapped with foil and provided with a collar) from the first carousel. Each head in the second carousel winds a blank around the corresponding object to be processed by interlocking with an appropriate instrument.

  In at least one embodiment, each head (of each carousel) may define (configure) a work unit (according to one or more of the features included in the present disclosure).

  According to one aspect thereof, the present disclosure provides a production line (machine) in the tobacco industry including at least one work unit comprising a tag, the tag according to one or more of the features included in the present disclosure. In order to exchange information with the inspection device (“reader”), it has a read / write memory. In this aspect, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiment of the inspection apparatus. This means that the fact that the inspection device is a probe having a shape like a smoking article and configured to be processed by a machine is one of several possible embodiments. .

  According to one aspect thereof, the present disclosure provides a production line (machine) in the tobacco industry comprising (at least one) work unit comprising a tag, wherein the tag is one or more of the features included in the present disclosure. Can be read / written by a probe (consisting of an inspection device) that is positioned along the movement (production) path of the smoking article, has a shape like a smoking article and is configured to be processed by a machine It is. In this aspect, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to tag embodiments. This means that the fact that the tag has a read / write memory for exchanging information with the inspection device (probe) is one of several possible embodiments.

  Accordingly, the present disclosure further provides a work unit of a production line (machine) in the tobacco industry.

  The work unit comprises a body that is geometrically configured to removably connect the work unit with a line (machine).

  In certain embodiments, the work unit comprises an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is configured to set at least one mechanical and / or electrical adjustment parameter. The adjustment parameter may be detectable from outside the work unit.

  According to one or more of the features included in the present disclosure, the work unit further includes a tag having a read / write memory and a data exchange interface.

  These and other features will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, which are illustrated by way of non-limiting examples in the accompanying drawings.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the production line in the tobacco industry based on this indication. It is a figure which shows the cigarette packing machine of the line of FIG. It is a figure which shows the detail of the machine of FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production line in the tobacco industry according to the present disclosure in relation to one possible use of a probe. It is a figure showing a probe concerning this indication. It is a figure which shows the modification of the probe of FIG. It is a figure which shows another modification of the probe of FIG.

  Reference numeral 1 indicates a line for producing articles in the tobacco field (especially for the production of cigarettes), which in the following is also referred to as tobacco industry products and smoking articles.

  Line 1 may comprise one or more machines or units connected along a movement path (FIG. 1), which are specifically connected in series. Yes. The following briefly describes some of the machines or units that line 1 may include.

  Line 1 may comprise a machine 201, known as a “cigarette making machine”, configured to produce a cigarette rod portion containing tobacco leaves (without filter). The cigarette making machine 201 wraps a predetermined amount of tobacco leaves with a piece of paper, and enables the production of a plurality of tobacco rods wound with paper having a predetermined size and length. The tobacco rod will later constitute a cigarette. In Patent Document 4 in the name of the same applicant as the present invention, an example of a cigarette manufacturing machine 201 is satisfactorily described, and the contents of Patent Document 4 (particularly the contents related to the structure, function, and operation mode of machine components) are by reference. Incorporated herein by reference.

  Line 1 may comprise a machine 3, known as a “filter making machine”, which constitutes a unit for producing a filter.

  The line 1 may further include a filter chip mounting machine 202 configured to connect the filter manufactured by the filter manufacturing machine 3 and the cigarette rod portion manufactured by the cigarette manufacturing machine 201. In order to manufacture a cigarette finished product, the filter chip mounting machine 202 has one or a plurality of parts made of filter material, that is, a “composite” filter or a plurality of filters, having a predetermined size previously manufactured by the cigarette manufacturing machine 201. Allows to be attached to an element having a length and length. In Patent Document 5 in the name of the same applicant as the present invention, an example of a filter chip mounting machine 202 is satisfactorily described. Is incorporated herein by reference.

  The cigarette manufacturing machine 201 and the filter chip mounting machine 202 form a unit 2 for manufacturing cigarettes.

  The line 1 may further include a packing machine 4 constituting a cigarette packing unit. The packing machine 4 is configured to produce a cigarette packet that includes a predetermined number of cigarettes.

  In Patent Document 6 in the name of the same applicant as the present invention, an example of a packing machine 4 is satisfactorily described. Incorporated.

  The line may further comprise a storage unit 7. In an embodiment, the storage unit 7 is interposed between the cigarette manufacturing unit 2 and the packing machine 4, and in such a case, the storage unit 7 receives the cigarette received from the unit 2 for cigarette manufacturing. Is stored and fed to the packing machine 4 to provide a cigarette storage “buffer”.

  The line 1 may further comprise a cellophane wrapping machine (or unit) 5 or a unit for wrapping packets. The cellophane wrapping machine 5 is configured to wind a wrapping film around each cigarette packet, and is connected to the packing machine 4 on the downstream side of the packing machine 4. Specifically, the cellophane wrapping machine 5 enables cigarette packet packaging with a transparent or printed heat-sealable plastic material. In Patent Document 7 in the name of the same applicant as the present invention, an example of a cellophane wrapping machine 5 is described satisfactorily. Incorporated herein by reference.

  The line 1 may further comprise a cartoning machine 6 or a cartoning unit. The cartonizer 6 is configured to produce a carton of cigarette packets (from a cigarette packet fed into the cartonizer 6). In Patent Document 8 (or Patent Document 9 which is a corresponding priority document) in the name of the same applicant as the present invention, an example of a cartoning machine 6 is satisfactorily described. Content relating to structure, function, and mode of operation) is incorporated herein by reference.

  With respect to the packing machine 4 described above, with reference to one possible embodiment thereof (see, eg, FIGS. 2 and 3), the following points are noted.

  The packing machine 4 includes a feeding station 401 for feeding a wrapping material, a feeding station 402 for feeding cigarettes, and a packing station 400.

  The feeding station 401 includes one or more wrapping material reservoirs, the one or more wrapping material reservoirs being a first roll 403 of inner wrapping material ("inner liner"), a coupon reservoir 404, and hard. A second roll 405 of paper material may be included. The hard paper material is subjected to successive cutting and folding steps to form a collar ("inner frame") commonly used for hard packets. Preferably, the roll 403 is a roll of foil paper or other soft material.

  Regarding the feeding of cigarettes, the feeding station 402 receives a large amount of horizontally aligned cigarettes from the storage unit 7 at the upper part thereof, and the cigarettes are drawn on the conveyor 407 in the state of the aligned cigarette group G. A (vertical) hopper 406 configured to discharge the The take-out conveyor 407 is located below the hopper 406.

Note that with respect to packing, the packing station 403 is configured to perform the following steps (functions):
-Packaging of each cigarette group G with a wrapping material (foil) inner liner;
・ Installation of collars on inner liners arranged around the cigarette group G;
-Formation of a hard exterior by folding a flat blank S made of hard material;
Other steps as needed, such as giving coupons or tax stamps.

  To perform these steps, the packing station 400 includes a (preferably vertical) support wall 408. The support wall 408 supports (or includes) the plurality of drive shafts 409. Preferably, each drive shaft 409 is horizontal (perpendicular to the support wall 408). The support wall 408 further supports (or includes) a plurality of conveyors each connectable to a corresponding drive shaft 409. In an embodiment, the packing machine 4 includes a first conveyor 410, a second conveyor 411, and a third conveyor 412.

  In an embodiment, the drive shafts 409 are kinematically connected to each other so that the plurality of conveyors described above operate in phase synchronization. For this purpose, the packing machine 4 may comprise a grid crank system which connects the drive shafts 409 to each other and to a single motor (not shown). Patent Document 10 describes an example of the system.

  In another embodiment, each drive shaft 409 is driven by a corresponding, independent electric motor. The phase coordination of these electric motors is performed by the control unit.

  Each conveyor 410, 411, 412 comprises a rotating support, or carousel 413 (in the exemplary embodiment, the carousel 413 is rotatable coaxially with a corresponding drive shaft 409). Each conveyor 410, 411, 412 includes a corresponding plurality of heads 414 (preferably at a location along the outer periphery of the corresponding carousel) connected to a corresponding carousel 413.

  Each conveyor head 414 is configured to move to contact a corresponding type of wrapping material that is intended to partially or fully package each (aligned) cigarette group G. The head 414 of each conveyor 410, 411, 412 is further configured to cooperate with the head 414 of at least one adjacent conveyor 410, 411, 412.

  In some embodiments, each head 414 includes a pocket for carrying a cigarette group G or packet. In certain embodiments (additionally or alternatively), each head 414 comprises a transport element configured to transport the wrapping material. In certain embodiments (additionally or alternatively), each head 414 comprises a folding element configured to fold the wrapping material.

  In some embodiments, the first conveyor 410 is located (directly) downstream of the takeout conveyor 407 to receive a continuous group of cigarettes G that move forward along the feed direction of the travel path P from the takeout conveyor 407. .

  There may be a first discharge device 415 configured to discharge the inner wrapping material (foil) from the first roll 403 in the interconnect region of the first conveyor 410 and the takeout conveyor 407.

  The head 414 of the first conveyor 410 receives the foil pieces and the continuous cigarette group G, receives the assistance of each folding device, and completely wraps each cigarette group G with the foil pieces.

  The first conveyor 410 is connected to a second discharge device 416 that is configured to discharge a collar. The second discharge device 416 is connected to a second roll 405 of hard paper material and is configured to produce a continuous collar by cutting and / or perforating the paper material and transporting the color to the first conveyor 410. The Each color is then combined with a corresponding foil strip wrapped around the cigarette group G.

  There may be a compensator 417 (eg, pneumatic) between the second color emitting device 416 and the corresponding roll 405, which compensates for each color smoothly and at regular intervals. It has a function of absorbing variations at the time of feeding the paper material so as to be conveyed to one conveyor 410.

  A second conveyor 411 is located downstream of the first conveyor 410, and the second conveyor 411 is configured to receive each cigarette group G previously wrapped in foil and discharge each blank S. The blank S made of hard material drawn out from the storage section 418 of the blank S by the third discharge device 419 is also received. In order to take out the blank S from the storage unit 418 and transport it to the second conveyor 411, the third discharge device 419 is interposed between the storage unit 418 of the blank S and the second conveyor 411.

  The storage portions 418 of the blanks S are configured to accommodate the blanks S that are stacked in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. The third discharge device 419 (for discharging the blank S) further comprises a support element that is rotatable about a horizontal axis and that is provided with an extraction work unit on the outer periphery.

  While the cigarette group G is on the second conveyor 411, with the aid of folding means (of a known type, for example comprising a plurality of curved deflectors and / or a plurality of movable grippers), at least the blank S Part is folded.

  A third conveyor 412 exists on the downstream side of the second conveyor 411. The third conveyor 412 receives the semi-finished product packet from the second conveyor 411 and folds the remaining portion of the blank S to complete the hard packet.

  Like the second conveyor 411, the third conveyor 412 is also configured to fold a specific portion of the packet (a known type of folding means, for example comprising a plurality of curved deflectors and / or a plurality of movable grippers). Is combined with.

  A transfer device 420 exists on the downstream side of the third conveyor 412. The transfer device 420 is configured to receive a finished product packet from a packing station and send the finished product packet to a storage unit (“buffer”) or another station (eg, cellophane wrapping machine 5). At a storage unit (“buffer”) or another station (eg, cellophane wrapping machine 5), the outer thermoplastic film is attached to the finished product packet.

  In certain possible embodiments, at least one of the conveyors 410, 411, 412 can be replaced with another type of conveyor and / or moved to a different position relative to the other conveyors 410, 411, 412. And / or can be mounted on different drive shafts 409 on the support wall 408. This allows the conveyors 410, 411, 412 to be redistributed and / or exchanged when the size and type of packet to be manufactured and / or the type of wrapping material used changes. In some embodiments, each drive shaft 409 is configured to be interchangeably connected to each of the conveyors 410, 411, 412. In some embodiments, at least the second conveyor 411 and the third conveyor 412 are interchangeable while the first conveyor 410 is not interchangeable. In some variations, compatibility may be extended to all the conveyors 410, 411, 412 described above.

  Compatibility is achieved by providing each drive shaft 409 with a corresponding identical connection that is used to mount a plurality of conveyors on the drive shaft 409 in various different combinations. In one embodiment, each conveyor 410, 411, 412 is provided with a slot configured to optionally receive any of the drive shafts 409 described above. The shaft and the slot may be connected to each other by a keyed connection in order to allow transmission of driving torque.

  In one embodiment, each conveyor 410, 411, 412 has a transmission structure connected to each head 414 of the conveyor. The transmission structure is for moving each head 414 of the conveyor when the corresponding drive shaft 409 is driven. The transmission structure may include, for example, a system consisting of a plurality of cams and cam followers, or other systems of known type.

  In some embodiments, the conveyors 410, 411, 412 may each be replaced with a conveyor having different characteristics (eg, to produce a different size and type of packet (eg, hard packet instead of soft packet)) (eg, It may be removed (by pulling from the corresponding drive shaft 409).

  Returning now to the overall line description, line 1 further comprises a control unit 14. The control unit 14 may be an electronic control unit.

  The control unit 14 is configured to control a part or all of the machines and units (for example, the units 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) that constitute a part of the line 1.

  The control unit 14 may be a single (or centralized) control unit or a distributed control unit (that is, a plurality of modules distributed along the line 1). Each dedicated to a specific function, eg, dedicated to a specific machine or unit, and may comprise a plurality of modules that communicate with each other or interact with each other).

  Although it is understood that the above-described line may include a plurality of machines, attention is focused on one machine for the sake of simplicity.

  In operation, the machine processes a plurality of consecutive smoking articles in succession. Depending on the situation (type of machine, or stage of processing in the same machine), the smoking article may be a filter, cigarette, aligned cigarette group G, cigarette packet, etc. good.

  The machine includes at least one work unit, and in at least one embodiment, the machine includes a plurality of work units.

  A work unit is a machine part that can be disconnected and removed from the machine (eg, for replacement). Also, in at least one embodiment, the work unit is subject to adjustment (mechanical or electronic).

  Each head 414 (of the conveyors 410, 411, or 412) of the packing machine 4 may constitute a work unit.

  Other components that can constitute the work unit defined in this disclosure include inter-conveyor transfer units, tensioning or traction units, foil stamping elements, blanking punches, and other components. It is done.

  In one embodiment, one or more work units are located along the movement path P (production path) of the smoking article. However, one or more work units may also be located at a position spaced from the movement path P of the smoking article.

  The work unit includes a tag T, an electronic component configured to store information accessible (readable) by the inspection device.

  In an embodiment, the tag T has a read / write memory. In an embodiment, the tag T has a data exchange interface. For example, the tag T uses RFID technology (or other short-range data transmission technology).

  In at least one embodiment, line 1 comprises a probe 10. In certain embodiments, the probe 10 is configured to communicate with each tag T of each work unit.

  In at least one embodiment, the probe 10 is shaped like a smoking article (preferably) so that it can be loaded and processed in one or more machines in line 1 like an actual smoking article. . For example, the probe 10 has a shape like a cigarette or a cigarette group G (see, for example, FIGS. 6 and 7). In the latter case, the probe 10 may be inserted into the packing machine 4.

  The probe 10 includes a processor 16, and the processor 16 may be integrated with the electronic card 11 (see, for example, FIG. 5). The probe 10 includes a memory 12, which is preferably a read / write memory.

  The probe 10 includes a data exchange module 13, that is, a communication module. For example, the data exchange module 13 uses RFID technology (or other short-range data transmission technology).

  In at least one embodiment, the probe 10 further includes a power source 22 (battery).

  In one embodiment, the working unit tag T is a passive RFID tag. The probe 10 can read data from the tag T or write data to the tag T when the probe 10 is located in the vicinity of the work unit at the operation position along the movement path P.

  In a variant, the tag T of the working unit is an active tag, in which case data can be transmitted to the probe 10.

  Regarding the data stored in the tag T, the memory of the tag T can store various data, and examples thereof are shown below.

  The tag T can store the identification code of the work unit to which the tag T belongs. The tag T is combined with the working unit in a stable and non-removable manner. Further, the tag T can store the manufacturing date of the work unit and the identification data of each machine on which the work unit has been mounted so far.

  The tag T can further store a date associated with each description of the activity, for example, the date of one or more adjustments made to the work unit.

  The tag T can store a value of each of one or a plurality of adjustment parameters set at the time of testing the work unit or at each subsequent calibration. The characteristics of the adjustment differ depending on the type and function of the work unit. For example, when the work unit has a function of holding the cigarette group G, the adjustment may be the pressure applied to the cigarette group G (the adjustment parameter in this case). ) May be accompanied by mechanical movement of each gripping element so as to be within a predetermined value range. The range of the predetermined value is, for example, specified by the manufacturer or based on the confirmation of the effective operation of the working unit with respect to the cigarette packet (causing damage to the cigarette group G). Obviously, it is necessary to avoid applying such an excessive pressure).

  The tag T may further store the operation time interval of the work unit. The tag T is one or a plurality of machines, and may store information on the type of one or a plurality of machines on which the work unit is mounted during the work life of the work unit. The tag T may also store information about the position of the work unit in one or more machines in which the work unit is operated.

  The tag T may further store diagnostic data associated with the work unit obtained during the step of diagnosing the line. More generally, the tag T may further store all or part of the data stored in the control unit 14 of line 1.

  In some embodiments, the probe 10 includes a local sensor 17 (at least one or more local sensors) configured to detect a working unit adjustment parameter. For example, the probe 10 may be provided with a plurality of sensors each configured to detect pressure applied to the outside of the probe 10 (eg, by a particular work unit).

  The function of each of these sensors is operated during adjustment or installation of the work unit (for example, with the machine fixed and the probe 10 connected to the work unit or located near the work unit, depending on the situation). Providing a control signal for a person.

  For example, if the working unit is the head 414 of the packing machine 4 and the probe 10 is in the form of a cigarette group G, the user places the probe 10 in the working unit and then adds it to the probe 10 by the head 414. The pressure (or other parameter) applied to the probe 10 by the head 414 using the probe 10 to adjust (by feedback) the setting of the working unit until the pressure applied reaches (or falls within) the required value. Can be read.

  In an embodiment, the line 1 has a plurality of working units arranged in series along the movement path P and spaced from one another. For example, each head 414 of the first conveyor 410 is (functionally) in series with each head 414 of the second conveyor 411 and each head 414 of the third conveyor 412.

  In the same example, each head 414 of a plurality of heads combined with the same carousel 413 of one of the conveyors 410, 411, 412 is (functionally) parallel to each other.

  Accordingly, the line 1 includes a plurality of probes 10 corresponding to a plurality of work units arranged in parallel to each other. This allows the plurality of probes 10 to be processed simultaneously by the machine and also to contact or interact with each other at the same time as the corresponding work unit (and without any need to stop the machine in any case). Can act (or move to each operating position in the vicinity of the corresponding work unit).

  Thus, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a work unit of production line 1 in the tobacco industry is provided.

  The work unit comprises a body that is geometrically configured to removably connect the work unit to the line (1). The work unit further comprises an adjustment mechanism comprising at least one mechanical and / or electrical adjustment parameter detectable from outside the work unit. The work unit further comprises a tag T having a read / write memory and a data exchange interface.

  In one embodiment, the tag T is intended to face the probe 10 in use in at least one operating position taken by the probe 10 in relation to the movement (production) path P of the smoking article in the line, It is arranged on a part of the outer surface of the work unit main body.

  According to another aspect of the present disclosure (an example of which is shown in FIG. 4), line 1 is configured to measure at least one machine parameter indicative of the operation of at least one element of the line. A line sensor 15 is provided. A control unit 14 is connected to the line sensor 15 in order to control the operation of at least a part of the line.

  In certain embodiments, the line includes a diagnostic probe, which may be configured to interact with one or more line sensors 15 as it travels through the line and is processed in the same manner as a smoking article.

  In an embodiment (not described further), the diagnostic probe is separate and independent from the probe 10 (which is a test probe in the sense that it has the function of testing each tag T of each working unit). Yes. In another embodiment (noted by this disclosure, which does not compromise generality), the same probe 10 further has a diagnostic function (in addition to a testing function). Accordingly, hereinafter, simply referring to the probe 10 includes both embodiments in which the diagnostic probe is separate from the probe 10 and embodiments in which the probe 10 and the diagnostic probe are one and the same.

  The probe 10 is configured to acquire at least one probe parameter. The probe 10 (comprising a processor 16, at least one local sensor 17, a memory 12, a data transmission module 13 and a power source 22) has a shape like a smoking article and has at least one local sensor. 17 and configured to acquire at least one probe parameter.

  Line 1 includes an electronic database 21 operatively communicating with control unit 14 and memory 12 of probe 10 to receive and store data acquired for at least one machine parameter and at least one probe parameter. But it ’s okay.

  Line 1 further includes a computer 18 that is configured to generate an activation signal and to transmit the activation signal to the probe 10 and the control unit 14 at the beginning. The computer is programmed to make temporal associations with data stored in the electronic database 21.

  Thus, according to the present disclosure, the operation of at least a part of the production line 1 for producing smoking articles, ie one or more machines (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) constituting the line 1 itself is analyzed. A diagnostic method for doing so is further defined.

The method is performed by the probe 10 through the following steps:
・ Generation of start signal;
Sending the activation signal to the processor of the probe 10 at the start (or activation);
Sending the activation signal to the processor control unit 14 on line 1 at the start;
Reception in the electronic database 21 of a set of probe 10 data acquired from the probe 10 (at a plurality of successive time points) as a response to the received activation signal between the start time and the acquisition end time;
Reception in the electronic database 21 of a set of line data acquired by the control unit 14 as a response to the received activation signal between the start time and the acquisition end time;
• Temporal association of probe datasets with line datasets.

  The line data includes a data set indicating at least one machine parameter. According to another aspect, the method further comprises the step of sending a stop signal to the processor of the probe 10 and the control unit of line 1 at the end of acquisition. This completes the acquisition of probe data and line data.

  Preferably, the electronic device 19 includes a (hardware and / or software) module for communication with the probe 10 and a (hardware and / or software) module for communication with the control unit 14. . The electronic device 19 may further include a data analysis module configured to statistically analyze the line data and the probe data that have been time-phase matched (associated) with each other in advance.

  More generally, the electronic device 19 includes a user interface (allowing a user to issue a command), a memory, and a display.

  Preferably, the step of performing temporal association includes, for each item of the probe data set, referring to a start time (referred to) and a synchronization parameter value assigned to the data item, and at least one correspondence of the line data set And setting a corresponding reference instant assigned to the item to be associated with each other.

  According to another aspect, the method obtains a value (preferably at a predetermined sampling interval) for each of the probe parameters after the step of sending an activation signal to the probe 10 processor at a “start” (or activation) time point. Comprising steps. According to another aspect, the method comprises the step of obtaining the line data described above after the step of transmitting an activation signal.

  In certain embodiments, the line parameters include parameters that each indicate a position that the smoking article (and probe) occupies at a certain time at one or more conveyor units configured to move along at least a portion of line 1. . This is because the (line) parameter is analyzed over time, so that the position of the probe 10 (moved by one or more conveyor units or moved together with one or more conveyor units) is highly accurate and accurate. It means that it can be traced by sex.

  More generally, each line parameter is used to identify a machine state or setting at a certain point in time.

  According to another aspect, the control unit 14 of line 1 comprises a clock and is programmed to associate a reference time point referring to the start time point with each data item acquired by the control unit 14. Preferably, the probe 10 includes a synchronizer configured to generate a synchronization signal that references a start time, and the processor 16 of the probe 10 sets a value of the synchronization parameter for each data item acquired by the probe 10. It is programmed to associate.

  In other words, the clock of the control unit 14 and the synchronizer are used to assign a point on the time axis to each sample of probe and line data starting at the same start time.

  The probe 10 also has a base element (frame having a shape like a smoking article in appearance) that accommodates the electronic card 11 or a frame.

  In addition, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to perform a highly accurate diagnosis on a machine. This is because by grasping the position of the probe 10, it is possible to determine the position where the defect and / or the failure has occurred with very high accuracy.

  The probe 10 can be processed in the same way as a normal product. In this sense, the probe 10 may be subjected to the same physical phenomenon (impact, compression, acceleration, heating) as the same type of product. Same processing as the product.

  The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the probe (10) is in wireless communication with the control unit (14) and is driven in real time by the control unit (14).

  Regarding the adjustment of the work unit, the diagnostic function that the probe 10 may have interacts synergistically with the inspection function of the probe 10. In fact, the fact that the probe 10 can read data from the tag T of the work unit and write data to the tag T means that each adjustment parameter value previously set in the work unit can be obtained from the memory, This means that a new value set after (new) adjustment can be written to the memory.

  The present disclosure, according to one aspect thereof, provides a diagnostic method for inspecting at least a portion of line 1 (eg, one or more of machines or units 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 of line 1). .

  The method comprises the step of storing specific data in the tag T of the work unit. Preferably, these data indicate the structural or operational specifications of the work unit and may indicate adjustments and settings performed over time for the work unit, and in some embodiments are stored in a tag. The data stored in the tag T is a "tracking record", i.e. a file indicating the history of the unit of work starting at the time of its manufacture, or Configure a “fingerprint”.

  The inspection method includes the step of reading data stored in the tag T of the work unit (for one or more work units of line 1). The method further comprises transferring data to or from the tag T of the work unit.

  In an embodiment, the reading step includes the step of loading the probe 10 into the line 1 at a loading position along the movement path P of the smoking article. In this embodiment, the step of transferring data between the probe and the tag T of the working unit is performed when the probe is located at an operating position along the movement path P.

  In one embodiment, the machine (or line 1) processes the probe 10 and data is read continuously from one or more work units as the probe travels along the travel path P. Specifically, the same probe 10 reads all the tags T of a plurality of work units located along the movement path P and functionally arranged in series with each other. The reading of the plurality of tags T of the work units (for example, the plurality of heads 414 of one carousel 413 in the packing machine 4) arranged in parallel with respect to each other is the number of the plurality of work units arranged in parallel. The same number of continuous probes 10 need to be put into the machine.

  In some embodiments, the probe 10 may be held stationary in the operating position during the data exchange step with the work unit. This solution is particularly advantageous if the data exchange between the working unit tag T and the probe 10 is carried out during or for the purpose of adjusting the working unit.

In this context, the (inspection) method may comprise the step of confirming the work unit through the following steps:
A probe 10 for obtaining reference data (eg a range of values provided by the manufacturer or a past value of one or more adjustment parameters set during an adjustment step previously performed on the work unit) Reading the memory of the unit of work tag by
Detection of the current value of each of one or more work unit adjustment parameters by means of a probe;
• Comparison of past and present values for each of one or more work unit adjustment parameters.

  In certain embodiments, the probe 10 is in wireless communication with the control unit 14 or electronic device 18, preferably in real time.

  In certain embodiments, the probe 10 is driven by the control unit 14 or the electronic device 18, preferably in real time.

Italian Patent Application No. 2006A000110 International Publication No. 2017/182996 European Patent Application No. 2159176 European Patent No. 25222237 European Patent No. 1791146 European Patent Application No. 1267231 European Patent No. 1640268 US Patent Application No. 2005/0005580 Italian Patent Application No. 2003A000317 Italian Patent Application No. 97A000371

Claims (20)

The operation of at least a part of a production line (1) in the tobacco industry comprises a processor (16), a memory (12), a data exchange module (13), a power supply (22) and the shape of a smoking article The line (1) includes a path (P) for movement of the smoking article, a control unit (14), and the movement path. A working unit arranged along (P), the working unit being provided with a tag (T) having a read / write memory and a data exchange interface for transmitting and receiving data by wireless communication;
Loading the probe (10) into the line (1) at a loading position located along the movement path (P);
Transferring the data between the probe (10) and the tag (T) of the working unit when the probe (10) is located at an operating position along the movement path (P);
A method comprising: Feeding the probe (10) along the travel path (P),
The charging position is located upstream of the operating position along the movement path (P).
The method of claim 1. The probe (10) reads and / or writes data associated with one or more items in the following list to the tag (T) of the working unit;
The method of claim 1:
・ Unit unit identification code;
-Date of manufacture of the work unit;
The date of one or more adjustments made to the unit of work;
The value of one or more adjustment parameters set during one or more adjustments performed on said work unit;
The activation date of the probe (10);
-The operating time interval of the working unit;
The type of one or more machines (2, 3, 4, 5, or 6) in which the work unit is operated;
The position of the working unit within one or more machines (2, 3, 4, 5, or 6) in which the working unit is operated;
Diagnostic data associated with the unit of work obtained during the step of diagnosing the line (1);
One or more of the data items stored in the control unit of the line (1). Said probe (10) comprises at least one local sensor (17), said probe (10) during said step of adjusting said working unit, via said sensor (10), said adjustment parameter of said working unit. Detect and send to the control unit (14),
The method as described in any one of Claims 1-3. The probe (10) is held stationary at the operating position during the step of adjusting the working unit or reduced in speed while moving along the travel path (P),
The method of claim 4. Checking the unit of work through the following steps:
Method according to claim 4 or 5:
Reading the memory of the work unit tag (T) with the probe (10) to obtain past values of one or more adjustment parameters set during an adjustment step previously performed on the work unit;
Detecting a current value of the one or more work unit adjustment parameters with the probe (10);
The past value of the one or more work unit adjustment parameters is compared with the current value. The work unit is adjustable by setting one or more electrical or mechanical adjustment parameters and is removable from the line (1).
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The line (1) comprises a plurality of work units arranged in series and spaced from each other along the movement path (P),
The probe (10) interacts with the tags (T) of each of the plurality of work units sequentially by data transfer while moving along the movement path (P).
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The line (1) comprises a plurality of working units arranged in parallel to each define a separate movement path (P) for the smoking article, the method comprising:
Loading a plurality of corresponding probes (10) into the line (1);
Feeding the plurality of probes (10) simultaneously or substantially simultaneously along the corresponding movement path (P);
For each probe (10), when the probe (10) is located at a corresponding operating position along the movement path (P), the tag (T) of the working unit corresponding to the probe (10) Transferring data between the
The method according to claim 1, comprising: The probe (10) performs wireless communication with the control unit (14).
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9. A production line (1) in the tobacco industry,
A machine (2, 3, 4, 5, or 6) for continuously processing successive smoking articles, comprising a working unit, said working unit being along a path (P) of movement of said smoking article A machine (2, 3, 4, 5, or 6) having a read / write memory and a data exchange interface;
A control unit (14);
A probe (10) formed in the shape of a smoking article and including a processor (16), a memory (12), a data exchange module (13), and a power source (22);
With
The data exchange interface of the tag (T) and the data exchange module (13) of the probe (10) are connected to the probe (10) at the operating position of the probe (10) along the movement path (P). ) And the work unit tag (T), a production line configured to transfer data. The memory of the work unit tag (T) stores data associated with one or more items in the following list:
Line according to claim 11:
・ Unit unit identification code;
-Date of manufacture of the work unit;
The date of one or more adjustments made to the unit of work;
The value of one or more adjustment parameters set during one or more adjustments performed on said work unit;
-The operating time interval of the working unit;
One or more machine types in which the work unit is operated;
The position of the work unit within the machine or machines in which the work unit is operated;
Diagnostic data associated with the unit of work obtained during the step of diagnosing the line (1);
One or more of the data items stored in the control unit (14) of the line (1). The probe (10) includes at least one local sensor (17) configured to detect adjustment parameters of the working unit;
The line according to claim 11 or 12. The work unit is adjustable by setting one or more electrical or mechanical parameters and is removable from the line (1);
The line as described in any one of Claims 11-13. The line (1) includes a plurality of work units arranged in series and spaced from each other along the movement path (P).
The line according to any one of claims 11 to 14. The line (1) comprises a plurality of work units arranged in a carousel (413) to define a separate movement path (P) for the smoking article, respectively.
The line according to any one of claims 11 to 15. A working unit for the production line (1) in the tobacco industry,
A body geometrically configured to removably connect the work unit to the line;
An adjustment mechanism comprising at least one mechanical and / or electrical adjustment parameter detectable from outside the work unit;
A tag (T) having a read / write memory and a data exchange interface;
A working unit comprising. The memory of the tag (T) stores data related to one or more items in the following list:
The working unit according to claim 17:
・ Unit unit identification code;
-Date of manufacture of the work unit;
The date of one or more adjustments made to the unit of work;
The value of one or more adjustment parameters set during one or more adjustments performed on said work unit;
-The operating time interval of the working unit;
One or more machine types in which the work unit is operated;
The position of the work unit within the machine or machines in which the work unit is operated;
Diagnostic data associated with the unit of work obtained during the step of diagnosing the line (1);
One or more of the data items stored in the control unit (14) of the line (1). The tag (T) is arranged on a part of the outer surface of the main body of the working unit with the intention of facing the movement path P of the smoking article in the line (1) in use. Yes,
19. A work unit according to claim 17 or 18. The working unit is a head (414) of a cigarette packing machine (4).
The work unit according to any one of claims 17 to 19.

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