RU2795125C1 - Assembly for transportation of various types of tobacco industry products industries and the related unit - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: tobacco industry; transportation; production.

SUBSTANCE: transport assembly for transporting various types of products of the tobacco industry contains: the first transport system for supplying the first industrial products along the first transport path to the first input station of the first machine. The transport assembly contains the second transport system for transporting the second industrial products along the second transport path from the first output station of the first machine to the second input station of the second machine. The first transport system is configured to be able to change the length of the first segment of the first transport path. The second transport system is configured to be able to change the length of the second segment of the second transport path. The first transport system and the second transport system are mutually positioned such that the first segment and the second segment at least partially overlap each other and/or are positioned side by side. A unit for the industry for production of tobacco products is claimed, containing the transport unit and the first and second machines, configured with the possibility of processing the first products of the industry and obtaining the second products of the industry for production of tobacco products.

EFFECT: compensation of temporary differences in performance of machines for production of tobacco products and simplification of the design.

14 cl, 11 dwg

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY TO WHICH THE INVENTION RELATES

The present invention relates to a transport hub and plant for the smoking industry.

The term "smoking products" refers to bar products of the tobacco industry, such as, for example, pieces of tobacco, pieces of filter material, as well as cigarettes, non-burning heated products (alternative cigarettes).

The present invention finds advantageous application to a system for transporting cigarettes from an assembly machine to a packaging machine, which are expressly referred to in part of the following description without loss of generality.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Installations are known in the field of the smoking products industry, comprising a first conveying system for supplying articles to a first machine which processes them into treated articles and for transporting the treated articles to a second machine.

During operation, the operating speeds of both machines can be changed in an absolute sense and relative to each other. In order to compensate for temporary changes in the performance of both machines, a variable capacity drive can be provided between and in front of the two machines.

However, variable capacity drives currently available are relatively complex, expensive, and bulky.

For example, in a non-limiting sense, reference may be made to a conventional cigarette manufacturing plant comprising a manufacturing machine (machine) that manufactures individual cigarettes, a packaging machine that manufactures packs of cigarettes, and a transport assembly that powers the manufacturing machine and connects the manufacturing machine to the packaging machine. a machine for supplying a continuous stream of cigarettes from the outlet of the manufacturing machine to the inlet of the packaging machine.

In general, the transport assembly comprises an elevator that receives a continuous stream of cigarettes from the exit of a manufacturing machine and vertically lifts the continuous stream of cigarettes, a horizontal conveyor that is located at a relatively high height (generally in excess of two and a half meters) so as not to interfere with the passage below it, and receives a continuous flow of cigarettes from the elevator, and a descending channel, which is located at the end of the horizontal conveyor and through which the continuous flow of cigarettes is fed to the inlet of the packaging machine (in particular, located at the inlet of the hopper of the packaging machine).

To compensate for the time differences in the performance of both machines, a variable capacity bin can be connected to the horizontal conveyor that stores (absorbs) a given number of cigarettes when the manufacturing machine is more productive than the packaging machine (i.e. when the assembly machine produces more cigarettes, than the number of cigarettes packed by the packaging machine) and dispenses a given number of cigarettes when the assembly machine is less productive than the packaging machine (i.e., when the manufacturing machine produces fewer cigarettes compared to the number of cigarettes packed by the packaging machine).

However, as mentioned above, currently available variable capacity cigarette stackers are relatively complex, expensive and bulky.

GB 2326146 discloses a reservoir system for rod-shaped products such as cigarettes, comprising a delivery device, a receiving device and a conveyor for moving a multilayer stream of products from the delivery device to the receiving device, the conveyor including a junction at which objects can be received from the reservoir variable capacity or delivered to it. Moreover, the conveyor includes a section of variable length between the delivery device and the junction. The variable length section contains a buffer tank of a relatively small reverse magazine type.

GB 2178715 discloses a conveyor system for rod-shaped products in the form of a multilayer stack, including: a plurality of delivering devices, a plurality of receiving devices; a first conveyor means that includes a junction to which products from at least two delivery devices are delivered in different directions; a second conveyor means including a connection point from which the products are delivered to at least two receiving devices, and a transfer conveyor means connecting said connection points.

FR 2766803 discloses an accumulator used for products that are flat or can be located at their edges. It uses two conveyors parallel to each other. Each conveyor has a mobile cart, the two carts being connected by a curved conveyor forming an angle of about 180 degrees. Two carts and a curved conveyor form a unit that can be moved along the axis.

The object of the present invention is to develop a transport unit and installation that will overcome, at least in part, the shortcomings of the known technical solutions and at the same time be simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a transport unit and installation corresponding to those claimed in the independent claims of the following claims and - preferably - in any of the claims directly or indirectly dependent on the aforementioned independent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate a non-limiting example of an embodiment, wherein:

- figure 1 presents a perspective schematic representation of the installation and transport node corresponding to this invention;

- figure 2 shows a front view of the transport node according to figure 1;

- figure 3 is a front view of the transport node according to figure 2 in another working configuration;

- Fig. 4 is a front view of an additional embodiment of a part of the transport hub according to Fig. 1;

- Fig. 5 is a front view of a part of the transport unit according to Fig. 2 and 3 in a different working configuration;

- figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the system according to figure 1;

- figure 7 shows a front view of the transport node according to figure 6;

- Fig. 8 is a front view of a part of the transport hub according to Fig. 6 in another operating configuration;

- Fig. 9 is a front view of an additional embodiment of a part of the transport hub according to Fig. 6;

- Fig. 10 is a front view of a part of the transport unit according to Fig. 7 and 8 in a different working configuration; And

- in Fig.11 is schematically illustrated in a perspective image of an alternative embodiment of the installation according to Fig.1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes, in general, the hub of the smoking industry.

The transport unit 1 comprises: a transport system 2 for supplying (in bulk) products 3 (in particular substantially cylindrical) of the smoking industry along a transport path P1 to an input station 4 of a (processing) machine 5; and a transport system 6 for transporting (in bulk) products 7 (in particular substantially cylindrical) of the smoking industry along the transport path P2 from the output station 8 of the machine 5 (in particular to the input station 9 of the additional processing machine 10).

The transport system 2 is configured to change the length of the section 11 (variable length) of the transport path P1. The transport system 6 is configured to change the length of the segment 12 (variable length) of the transport path P2. Sections 11 and 12 are arranged so as to face each other (at least partially).

With the help of the transport unit 1 corresponding to this invention, it is possible to reduce the overall dimensions of storage systems of variable capacity.

In this regard, it should be noted that the transport system 2 (more precisely, the segment 11) and the transport system 6 (more precisely, the segment 12) operate as variable capacity accumulators, in particular, of the type "first in, first out" ("FIFO"), and that by giving them specific provisions, they make better use of the available space. In fact, the mutual arrangement of the transport systems 2, 6 is such that the sections 11, 12 face each other (in particular, they at least partially overlap each other and/or are located side by side).

It is assumed that segments 11 and 12 (at least partially) face (to each other) when the longitudinal extent of segment 11 (at least partially) faces the longitudinal extent of segment 12.

In particular, the segments 11 and 12 (at least partially) overlap each other and/or are located side by side. In other words, at least part of the longitudinal extent of the segment 11 and at least part of the longitudinal extent of the segment 12 (at least partially) overlap each other and/or are located side by side.

In an advantageous, but not essential, embodiment, each of the segments 11 and 12 contains at least a corresponding part, which is essentially linear (and more specifically, at least two such parts). In particular, the substantially linear portion of segment 11 is substantially parallel to the substantially linear portion of segment 12. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the substantially linear portion of segment 11 and the substantially linear portion of segment 12 (at least partially) overlap each other and/or are located side by side.

In typical cases, the transport hub 1 is part of a plant 13 for the smoking industry, this plant comprising (in addition to the transport hub 1) also a machine 5 (and in particular a machine 10).

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the articles 3 are pieces of smoking products to be manufactured. In these cases, the machine 5 may be a machine for assembling said pieces, for example by joining them together and wrapping them in a sheet of wrapping paper and obtaining products 7 (multi-component smoking products - cigarettes). According to a non-limiting example, the machine 5 may be similar to that described in patent application US2015289559 of the same Applicant.

According to alternative embodiments, the machine 5 is configured to only orient some or all of the products 3 differently. In these cases, articles 3 and 7 are essentially the same.

In some non-limiting cases, machine 10 is a packaging machine, i. a machine that receives the articles 7 and packages them into bundles of articles 7. In some alternative embodiments, the machine 10 is configured to further process the articles 7 (for example, by combining them with additional components (for example, filters or other components).

According to the illustrated embodiment (FIG. 1), the conveying system 2 (in particular the section 11) and the conveying system 6 (in particular the section 12) are in a higher position (above) relative to the machine 5 (and in particular also the machine 10 ). The transport systems 2, 6 advantageously do not take up more space on the floor surface than that taken up by the machines 5, 10; thus, the overall dimensions of the system are limited due to the advantage of having transport systems designed for two different types of products.

It will be understood that - in non-illustrated embodiments - the transport systems 2, 6 could be placed on the floor surface and/or side by side with the machines 5, 10.

In a preferred, but not mandatory, embodiment and according to the illustrated embodiments, the transport system 2 and/or the transport system 6 comprise (or each of them contains) at least one respective transport unit 14, which is adapted to transport the articles 3 respectively. and/or products 7, at least along some section (variable length) segment 11 and segment 12, respectively.

Alternatively, according to non-illustrated embodiments, the transport system 2 may comprise a transport unit 14, and the transport system 6 may not comprise a transport unit having the construction of a transport unit 14. Conversely, in some cases, the transport system 6 may comprise a transport unit 14, and the transport system 2 cannot include a transport unit having the structure of the transport unit 14.

Referring to the drawings, we note that each of the transport system 2 and the transport system 6 contains at least one transport unit 14. In these cases, the transport units 14 included in the transport systems 2 and 6 may be the same (however, they objects will be distinct from each other) or different.

In addition, the conveying system 2 and/or the conveying system 6 (each) may comprise at least one respective conveying unit CG and/or 14' (in particular downstream of the conveying unit 14). The conveying unit 14 is designed to communicate the movement of the products 3 or products 7 (products 3 and/or products 7, respectively) in the first direction A or B, respectively. The conveying unit CG and/or 14 is intended to convey movement to articles 3 or articles 7 (articles 3 and/or articles 7, respectively) along some additional section of segment 11 and segment 12, respectively, in the second direction B or A, respectively, which, essentially opposite to the first direction A or B.

As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, according to some embodiments, the conveying systems 2 and 6 comprise a conveying assembly 14 and an additional conveying assembly CG (the latter formed only by a linear conveyor). In such a case, the respective transport paths P1, P2 are "C"-shaped.

Alternatively, FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment in which the transport system 2 comprises a transport node 14 and a transport node CG, while the transport system 6 comprises transport nodes 14, 14' and a transport node CG. In such a case, the transport path P1 is "C" shaped, while the transport path P2 is "S" shaped.

According to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, the transport unit 14, which is part of the transport system 2, tells the products 3 to move in direction A; the transport unit CG, which is part of the transport system 2, tells the products 3 to move in direction B; the transport unit 14, which is part of the transport system 6, tells the products 7 to move in direction B; the transport unit CG or 14ʽ, which is part of the transport system 6, tells the products 7 to move in direction A.

According to alternative and not illustrated embodiments, both transport units 14 of transport system 2 and transport system 6 drive the products in direction A; similarly, both transport units CG and/or 14ʽ, which are part of transport system 2 and transport system 6, move the products in direction B.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the transport nodes 14, CG and/or 14' are located one below the other. More precisely, the transport unit CG is located below the transport unit 14 (and possibly also the transport unit 14').

In particular, a single (or each) transport node CG contains (or is formed by) a (single) linear conveyor LC.

In particular, the single (or each) transport unit 14' has a construction similar to (and operates in a similar way) the transport unit 14 (said construction will be described in detail below). In general, a single (or each) transport node 14' comprises a respective conveyor 15 and a respective conveyor 16. In an advantageous, but not essential, embodiment, the single (or each) conveyance node 14 and the single (or each) transport node 14' share (according to at least partially) the driving unit 17 (described in detail below).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the sections 11 and 12 (in particular, the transport units 14 and possibly 14' and/or CG) are located (at least partially) in such a way that they extend (at least partially) into within the transverse dimensions of the machine 5. Thus, the influence (in terms of space occupied) of the transport node 1 is even smaller.

The following is a description of some non-limiting embodiments of the design and operation of the transport system 2 and its associated transport unit 14. Said description is to be considered applicable - mutatis mutandis - also to the transport system 6 and to the corresponding transport unit 14, without regard to the specific design and operation of the transport system 2 .

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the single (or each) conveying unit 14 comprises: a (linear) conveyor 15, at least one (linear) conveyor 16, and at least one driving unit 17 for communicating movement of at least one of the conveyor 15 and the conveyor 16 relative to the other between the first configuration (for example, illustrated in figure 3), in which the conveyor 15 and conveyor 16 at least partially overlap each other, and the second configuration (for example, illustrated in figure 2) , in which the conveyor 16 has an active section 18 that is offset from the conveyor 15, passing through at least one intermediate configuration (for example, illustrated in Fig.5), in which the conveyor 15 and the conveyor 16 partially overlap each other, and the conveyor 16 has an active section 19 which is offset towards the conveyor 15 and is shorter than the active section 18.

In particular, the conveyor 15 has an end 20 located along the aforementioned section (with variable length - section 11 of the path P1). The active section 18 and the active section 19 extend from the end 20 outside the conveyor 15 (in particular along the segment 11, and more precisely along the respective section of variable length).

In the first configuration (that is, when the conveyors 15 and 16 are in the first configuration), the aforementioned section (with variable length - section 11) has a first length; in the second configuration (i.e., when the conveyors 15 and 16 are in the second configuration), the section (of variable length) extends at least along the conveyor 15 (or part thereof) and (at least part of) the active section 18 and has a second length that is greater than the first length; in an intermediate configuration (i.e., when the conveyors 15 and 16 are in an intermediate configuration), a section (with a variable length - segment 11) extends along (at least part of) the conveyor 15 and (at least part of) the active section 19 and has a third length that is greater than the first length and less than the second length.

In particular, during operation, the conveyor 15 informs the products 3 along the first part of the aforementioned section (with variable length - segment 11 of the path P1) to the end 20. At this point, the products 3 are transferred to the conveyor 16 (more precisely, the active section 18 or 19 of the conveyor 16 ), which tells the products 3 to move along the second part of the aforementioned section (variable length), and in an advantageous, but not mandatory, variant transfers them, in turn, further along the technological chain, in particular, to the second transport unit CG or to some additional transport unit 14' (same as or different from transport unit 14) of transport system 2.

It should be noted that even when the products 3 are told to move along the section (variable length) of the segment 11 (path P1), the driving unit 17 can tell the conveyors 15 and 16 to move (more precisely, translational) relative to each other (more precisely, the conveyor 16 relative to the conveyor 15) . Thus, the length of the active section of the conveyor 16, and hence the section (variable length) of the segment 11 can be changed (thereby changing the storage capacity determined by the conveying system 2) even when the products 3 are told to move along the section (variable length) of the segment 11.

According to some non-limiting embodiments (as shown, for example, in the accompanying drawings), the conveyor 16 in the first configuration (figure 3) also has an active site 21 offset from the conveyor 15 (more precisely, extending from the end 20 beyond the conveyor 15, in particular , along segment 11). In an additional or alternative embodiment, the conveyor 15 and the conveyor 16 in the second configuration (figure 2) also partially overlap each other.

It should be noted that the transport system 2 has significantly reduced overall dimensions (in particular, in front and vertically).

In an advantageous, but not mandatory, embodiment, the single (or each) conveyor 15 is mounted essentially stationary (for example, on the frame F), and the driving unit 17 is configured to communicate to the single (or each) conveyor 16 relative to the respective conveyor 15.

In this way, it is possible to maintain the transverse dimensions within which the conveying system 2 is enclosed. In this regard, it should be noted that when the movement is given to both conveyors 15 and 16, in order to obtain the same throughput as the conveying system 2, it is necessary to increase the width of the conveyor itself. transport hub 1 (to give conveyors 15 and 16 enough room to move).

According to some non-limiting embodiments, a single (or each) conveyor 15 is located above the respective conveyor 16. This allows for a simplified and more efficient operation of the transport system 2.

The conveying system 2 is configured to transport articles 3 from the first end of the segment 11 to the second end of the segment 11, which is in a lower position than the first end. In other words, the conveying system 2 is designed to transport articles 3 along (at least part of) the segment 11 from top to bottom. Thus, it (among other things) facilitates the passage of articles 3 from conveyor 15 to conveyor 16 (by gravity) and/or between successive conveying nodes 14 and/or CG and/or 14'.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the transport node 1 (more precisely, the transport system 2) also contains at least one (schematically shown) control unit 22, which is configured to coordinate the speed control of (each) conveyor 15, (each) conveyor 16 and (each) driving unit 17 in order to keep the height of the mass of products 3 essentially constant (in particular along the path P1, and more specifically along the segment 11).

More specifically, the single (or each) conveyor 15 and the single (or each) conveyor 16 comprise at least one respective drive motor (of a type known per se and not illustrated) separate from the other drive motors; the single (or each) driving unit 17 is equipped with at least one driving motor (which is known per se and not illustrated) separate from the drive motors. More specifically, the control unit 22 is designed to coordinately control the speed of each drive motor and drive motor to keep the height of the mass of articles 3 substantially constant (both in time and along segment 11).

In particular, the control unit 22 is configured to regulate the operation of the conveyors 15 and 16 (more precisely, their drive motors) and the driving unit 17 (in particular, its motor that communicates the movement) in order to change the throughput (capacity) of the conveying system 2 (and the number of products 3 passing through the ends of the segment 11) according to the needs of the machine 5 located in the technological chain after the conveying system 2 (and - possibly - the exit of an additional machine located (or an additional device, for example, a hopper located) in the technological chain before the conveying system 2) . For example, when the output of a machine located (or an additional device, for example, a hopper located) in the process chain before the conveying system 2 is greater than the requirements of the machine 5 located in the process chain after the conveying system 2, the control unit 22 can therefore regulate conveyors 15 and 16 (in order to have a higher speed at the first end of the segment 11 and a lower speed at the second end - closer to the machine 5 - of the segment 11) and actuate the driving unit 17 in order to increase the throughput (capacity) of the transport system 2 (beyond by lengthening the active section of at least one conveyor 16, and more precisely by lengthening the active section of each conveyor 16).

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the driving unit 17 is designed to tell each conveyor 16 to move independently of the other conveyors 16 (transport system 2). In these cases, the driving unit 17 comprises a plurality of motors that communicate the movement, each of which is designed to communicate the translational movement of the respective conveyor 16. In the preferred, but not required, embodiment (as illustrated in Fig.2, 3 and 5), the driving unit 17 communicates the movement a plurality of (all) conveyors 16 (transport system 2) together. In these cases, in particular, the driving unit 17 has a single driving motor.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the conveyor 15 is designed to move the products 3 at the first speed V1, the driving unit 17 is designed to drive the conveyor 16 at the second speed V2, and the conveyor 16 is designed to drive the products 3 at the third speed V3. The control unit 22 is adapted to control the operation of the conveyor 15 in order to regulate the third speed V3 depending on the difference between the first speed V1 and the second speed V2, in particular so that the third speed V3 is substantially equal to the difference between the first speed V1 and second speed V2 (V3 = V1-V2).

Note that in this text, the speed corresponding to the difference and/or the sum is understood as the vector difference and/or the sum of the velocities (in other words, the velocities are considered vectors, and it becomes relevant to talk about their positioning - direction and orientation).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the single (or each) conveyor 15 (of the first transport unit 14 or the first row of transport units 14 and 14') is essentially a linear conveyor and is designed to convey the products 3 movement in direction A; the single (or each) conveyor 16 (of the first transport unit 14 or the first row of transport units 14 and 14') is essentially a linear conveyor designed to convey the products 3 in direction A.

The active section (18, 19 and/or 21) of the conveyor 16 extends from the end 20 in the direction A. In particular, the driving unit 17 is configured to tell the single (or each) conveyor 16 to move (translationally) in the direction A; more specifically, the driving unit 17 is also configured to cause the conveyor 16 to move (translationally) in direction B (equivalent) opposite to the direction A. In other words, the driving unit 17 is also configured to cause the conveyor 16 to move (translationally) forward and backward in the direction A .

Preferably, but not necessarily, the single (or each) conveyor 15 of the first transport unit 14 (or the first row of transport units 14 and 14') is made offset (and, in particular, stationary) from the conveyor 15 (which is also stationary) of the additional transport unit. node 14' (or the second row of transport nodes 14').

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the conveyor 15 of the transport unit 14 is designed to communicate the movement of the products 3 at the first speed V1, the driving unit 17 is designed to communicate the conveyor 16 of the transport unit 14 movement at the second speed V2, the conveyor 16 of the transport unit 14 is designed to communicate the movement of the products 3 with the third speed V3, the conveyor 15 of the transporting unit 14' is designed to communicate the movement to the products 3 at the fourth speed V4, the driving unit 17 is designed to communicate the movement to the conveyor 16 of the transporting unit 14' at the fifth speed V5, the conveyor 16 of the transporting unit 14' is designed to communicate the movement to the products from the sixth V6 speed.

In an advantageous, but not mandatory, version, the control unit 22 is configured to control the operation of the transport units 14 and 14'. The second and fifth speeds V2 and V5 are essentially the same in absolute value (|V2|=|V5|). In particular, the second and fifth speeds V2 and V5 are opposed to each other.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the control unit 22 is configured to control the operation of the conveyor 15 of the transport unit 14' to adjust the fourth speed V4 depending on the sum of the third speed V3 and twice the second speed V2. In particular, the absolute value of the fourth speed V4 is essentially equal to the absolute value of the sum of the speed V3 and twice the second speed (|V4| = |V3 + 2 × V2|). More specifically, the third speed V3 is opposite to the fourth speed V4.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the conveying system 3 comprises at least one guide device 23 (in the embodiment of FIG. 4 there are two guide devices 23), each of which is designed to allow the products 3 to pass between two successive conveying nodes 14, 14ʽ and/or CG (each guiding device 23 is located between two successive conveying nodes) and rejects the products 3, determining the bending of the segment 11 (path P1). In particular, each guide device 23 comprises a curved guide 24 (more precisely, rigid) limiting said bend from the outside, and more specifically, a curved guide 25 (more precisely, rigid) limiting said bend from the inside. More precisely, the path bend is approximately 180°.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the curved guide 24 includes a first segment (located at the entrance of the aforementioned bend) to correct the speed of the articles 3 so that voids do not occur within the mass of the articles 3. In particular, the aforementioned first section of the curved guide 24 is provided with a blade. the design (shape) of which makes it possible to push the products 3 to fill all voids (or holes) in the mass of products 3 (and therefore compact the mass itself).

Advantageously, but not necessarily, a system is also provided for adjusting the transport speeds (in the process chain before and/or after the aforementioned bend) to ensure a uniform transport flow (i.e., a uniform mass of articles 3).

Preferably, but not necessarily, each guide device 23 is integral with the respective conveyor 16 and, in particular, is located in the region of one end of said respective conveyor 16.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the single (or each) driving assembly 17 comprises a rigid element 26, in particular a bar, to which at least one conveyor 16 of the transport assembly 14 is connected as a whole (in some cases, a plurality of conveyors 16) .

In some non-limiting cases (as illustrated, for example, in Fig.4 in relation to the transport system 6), the driving unit 17 also contains at least one rigid element 27, in particular, a bar to which at least one is connected an additional conveyor 16 of the transport unit 14' (in some cases, a plurality of additional conveyors 16), and an actuator for imparting movement to the rigid elements 26 and 27, in particular in direction A and, respectively, in direction B, and vice versa, in particular with in order to (simultaneously) lengthen and/or shorten the active section of the conveyor 16 of the transport unit 14 and/or the additional conveyor 16 of the transport unit 14'.

More precisely, the driving unit 17 (in particular, the aforementioned actuator) comprises a conveyor 28 (in particular, a linear one) having at least two pulleys 29 and a belt element 30 partially wrapped around both pulleys 29 so that it has a first and a second strands 31 and 32 located on opposite sides of the pulley 29. The rigid element 26 is connected to the strand 31. In particular, a possible rigid element 27 is connected to the strand 32. At least one pulley 29 is connected to a drive motor for imparting rotation mentioned pulley 29.

In particular, the tape element 30 contains (is) a tape, a tape-like element and/or a chain (and/or a similar element).

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the conveyors 15 and 16 are belt conveyors, and each of them contains a respective belt, a respective belt-like element and/or a respective chain (and/or a similar element).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the conveyor 15 has a conveying section 33 and an unloading section 34 located between the conveying section 33 and the end 20. The segment 11 extends along the conveying section 33, along the unloading section 34 and beyond the end 20; section 34 for unloading has a slope in the range from 3° to 23° relative to the transport section 33.

In some embodiments, end 20 has a thickness in the range of 5 to 23 mm. In particular, the conveying section 33 has a thickness in the range of 98 to 108 mm.

As already indicated, the foregoing description of the construction and operation of the transport system 2 and the respective transport unit 14 should be considered applicable - mutatis mutandis - also to the transport system 6 and the respective transport unit 14, without reference to the specific design and operation of the transport system 2. In this context, for example , if there is a link to items 3, items 7 should also be considered, and if there is a link to segment 11 (paths P1), segment 12 (paths P2) should also be considered.

Having specified that the foregoing also applies to the transport system 6 and to the corresponding transport unit 14, regardless of the specific design and operation of the transport system 2, it turns out that the transport system 6 may provide some of the characteristics that differ from those of the transport system 2 from among those described, (or all their).

In any case, according to some advantageous embodiments, the transport system 2 and the transport system 6 have the same characteristics (as described above); in other words, they are defined in the same way.

According to a preferred embodiment, the control unit 22 is configured to control the transport system 2 and the transport system 6. In particular, the control unit 22 is configured to change the length of the sections 11, 12 of the respective transport paths P1, P2.

In an advantageous, but not mandatory, embodiment, the control unit 22 is configured to control the conveying systems 2 and 6 (more precisely, the respective conveying units 14, 14' and/or CG, and more precisely, the respective driving units 17 and conveyors 15 and 16) regardless of from each other. Thus, for example, it becomes possible to increase the length of segment 11 (more precisely, its section of variable length, thereby increasing the storage capacity of the transport system 2) and at the same time reduce the length of segment 12 (more precisely, its section of variable length, thereby reducing the storage capacity of the transport system 6 ), and vice versa.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the transport unit 1 also includes a frame F (on which are mounted: the transport system 2, more precisely its transport units 14 and CG; and the transport system 6, more precisely its transport units 14 and CG). In an advantageous, but not essential, embodiment, the frame F includes supports (particularly feet - known and not illustrated) for supporting the transport system 2 (and the transport system 6) at a predetermined distance from the floor surface. Thus (due also to the compactness of the transport system 2 and the transport system 6), it becomes possible to have the output end of the segment 11 raised from the floor surface to some desired height, compatible with the input station 4 of the machine 5, located in the process chain after the transport system 2. In addition, , thus it becomes possible to support the conveying systems 2 and 6 at a certain height that does not preclude the use of the space below them (for example, to allow the operators to pass unhindered).

Below, with reference specifically to Fig.6-11, as an alternative to or in addition to the above, a description is given of the installation 35 according to some variants of implementation, which contains a (processing) machine 5 essentially identical to the installation 13 and differs from it only in that that between the conveying system 2 and the conveying system 6 has at least one segment located in a higher position relative to the machine 5 (in particular, above it).

More precisely, the installation 35 comprises a machine 5 (of the processing type, in particular such as described above in connection with figures 1-5), a conveying system 2 for supplying (in bulk) products 3 (in particular, essentially cylindrical) industry to production of smoking products along the transport path P1 to the input station 4 of the (processing) machine 5, and the transport system 6 for transporting (in bulk) products 7 (in particular substantially cylindrical) of the smoking products industry along the transport path P2 from the output station 8 machine 5 (after it in the technological chain) (in particular, to the input station 9 of some additional processing machine 10, which is part of the installation 35, for example - such as described above).

Optionally, plant 35 also includes machine 10.

In particular, articles 3 and 7 are as described above with reference to figures 1-5.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the articles 3 are pieces of smoking products to be manufactured. In these cases, the machine 5 may be a machine for assembling said pieces, for example, putting them together and wrapping them with a sheet of wrapping paper, and obtaining products 7 (multi-component smoking products - cigarettes). According to a non-limiting example, the machine 5 may be similar to that described in patent application US2015289559 of the same Applicant.

Alternatively, corresponding to some non-illustrated embodiments, the articles 7 are packs (of articles 3 being, in particular, smoking articles; more specifically, in these cases, articles 3 are cigarettes). In these cases, machine 10 is, for example, a cellophane wrapping machine (and machine 5 is a packaging machine).

Preferably, but not necessarily, only one of the transport system 2 and the transport system 6 is configured to change the length of the path segment 11 (variable length) P1 or the segment 12 (variable length) of the path P2, respectively.

According to some non-limiting embodiments (as illustrated in FIG. 6), the conveying system 2 is configured to change the length of the length 11 of the transport path P1. On the contrary, the length of the transport path P2 (in particular of the transport system 6) is essentially fixed.

In an advantageous embodiment, at least the section 11 of the path P1 is in a higher position relative to (ie at a higher height relative to) the machine 5 (and in particular also the machine 10). In particular, the transport system 2 does not occupy any space on the floor surface outside that occupied by the machine 5 (and optionally by the machine 10). Thus, the overall dimensions of the system are limited due to the advantage of having a transport system 2 which also functions as a storage (buffer).

According to preferred, but not restrictive, embodiments, at least a section 11 (in particular of the transport system 2) of the path P1 is located above the machine 5 (above it). Thus, there is a further reduction in overall dimensions.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the transport system 2 is as described above (particularly in connection with the embodiments of FIGS. 1-5).

More precisely, but not in a limited sense, the transport system 2 contains at least one transport unit 14, which is configured to transport products 3, at least along some section (variable length) of segment 11.

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the transport system 2 comprises at least one respective transport unit CG and/or 14' (particularly located downstream of the transport unit 14). The conveying unit 14 is intended to communicate the movement of the products 3 in the first direction A. The transport unit CG and/or 14ʽ is intended to communicate the products 3 movement along some additional section of the segment 11 in the second direction B, which is essentially opposite to the first direction A or B.

6-9, embodiments are illustrated in which the conveying system 2 comprises a conveying assembly 14 and an additional conveying assembly CG (the latter formed by only one linear conveyor). In this case, the respective transport path P1 is "C" shaped.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment in which the transport system 2 comprises transport units 14, 14' and a transport unit CG. In this case, the transport path P1 is "S" shaped.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Figures 6-9, the transport unit 14 tells the products 3 to move in direction A, the transport unit 14ʽ tells the products 3 to move in direction B, the transport unit CG tells the products 3 to move in direction A.

In particular, a single (or each) transport node CG contains (or is formed by) a (single) linear conveyor LC.

In particular, the design (and operation) of the single (or each) transport unit 14' is similar to that of the transport unit 14. In general, the single (or each) transport unit 14' comprises a respective conveyor 15 and a respective conveyor 16. Preferably, but not necessarily, the transport node 14 and the single (or each) transport node 14' share (at least partially) the driving node 17 (described in detail below).

Preferably, but not necessarily, the segment 11 (in particular, the transport nodes 14 and - optionally - 14 ʽ and/or CG) is (s) (at least partially) in such a way that passes (s) (at least , partially) within the transverse dimensions of the machine 5 in such a way that the influence (in terms of the space occupied) of the transport unit 1 is even smaller.

In an advantageous, but not mandatory, embodiment, the design and operation of the transport unit 14 are as described above (particularly in connection with FIGS. 1-5).

More precisely, the design and operation of the conveyor 15 and/or the conveyor 16 and/or the driving unit 17 and/or the active section 18 and/or the active section 19 and/or the end 20 and/or the active section 21 and/or the control unit 22 and/or guide 23 and/or curved guide 24 and/or curved guide 25 and/or rigid element 26 and/or rigid element 27 and/or conveyor 28 and/or pulleys 29 and/or belt element 30 and/or branches 31 and/ or the branches 32 and/or the conveying section 33 and/or the unloading section 34 are as described above (in connection with FIGS. 1-5).

According to some non-limiting embodiments, the transport unit 1 also includes a frame F (on which the transport system 2 is mounted, more precisely its transport units 14, CG and possibly 14ʽ). In an advantageous, but not essential, embodiment, the frame F comprises supports (particularly feet, known and not illustrated) for supporting the transport system 2 at a predetermined distance from the floor surface. In this way (also due to the compactness of the transport system 2), it becomes possible to have the output end of the segment 11 raised from the floor surface to a certain desired height, compatible with the input station 4 of the machine 5, located in the process chain after the transport system 2. In addition, in this way it appears the ability to support the transport system 2 at a certain height that does not preclude the use of space under this system (for example, to ensure unhindered passage of operators).

According to some non-limiting embodiments (as illustrated in FIG. 11), the transport system 6 is in a higher position relative to (ie, higher relative to) the machine 5 (and in particular also the machine 10).

More precisely, in these cases, at least the section 12 of the path P2 is in a higher position relative to (ie at a higher height relative to) the machine 5 (and in particular also the machine 10). More specifically, the transport system 6 does not occupy any space on the floor other than that occupied by the machine 5 (and optionally by the machine 10). Thus, the overall dimensions of the system are limited due to the advantage of having a transport system designed to also function as a buffer.

According to preferred, but non-limiting, embodiments, at least a segment 12 of the path P2 (in particular, the transport system 6) is located above the machine 5 (above it). Thus, the overall dimensions are further reduced.

Alternatively (according to embodiments that are not illustrated), at least a section 12 of the path P2 (in particular of the transport system 6) is located above the machine 10 (above it).

In an advantageous, but not essential, variant (also referring specifically to FIG. 11 in this case), it is noted that the transport system 6 is configured to change the length of the segment 12 (variable length) of the transport path P2. On the contrary, the length of the transport path P1 (in particular of the transport system 2) is essentially fixed.

In these cases, what is described above and illustrated (in Fig.6-10) in relation to the transport system 2 is also true for the transport system 6 (applicable to it).

According to some non-illustrated alternatives, the transport node 1 is essentially identical to the transport node 1 described above with reference to figure 1, with the only difference being the presence (only) of the transport system 2 and the absence of the transport system 6. In these cases the operator can, in particular, manually remove the articles 7 from the exit station 8.

In accordance with some other alternatives, the transport node 1 is essentially identical to the transport node 1 described above with reference to figure 1, with the only difference being the presence (only) of the transport system 6 and the absence of the transport system 2. In these cases, the operator can, in particular, manually load the products 3 to the input station 4.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the content of references (to products, books, patent applications, etc.) referred to in this text refers to it in its entirety.

Referring specifically - and not in a limited sense - to what is illustrated in Figures 1-11 and what is described above in connection with them, we note that the present invention provides the following aspects.

1. The installation of the industry for the production of smoking products, and the installation (13; 35) contains:

a first machine (5) configured to process first products (3) of the smoking products industry and obtain second products (7) of the smoking products industry; And

transport unit (1), which, in turn, contains the first transport system (2) for supplying said first products (3) of the smoking industry along the first transport path (P1) to the first input station (4) of the first machine (5 ) and/or a second transport system (6) for transporting said second products (7) of the smoking industry along the second transport path (P2) from the first output station (8) of the first machine (5) (in particular to the second input station (9) second machine (10));

while the transport node (1) differs in that:

at least one of the first conveying system (2) and/or the second conveying system (6) is configured to change the length of the segment (11; 12) of the variable length of the first conveying path (P1) and/or the second conveying path (P2), respectively ;

said segment (11; 12) of variable length of the first conveyance path (P1) and/or the second conveyance path (P2) is in a higher position relative to the first machine (5).

2. Installation according to aspect 1, in which the mentioned section (11; 12) of the variable length of the first path (P1) transportation and/or the second path (P2) transportation is located above the mentioned first machine (5) (above it).

3. Installation according to aspect 1 or 2, in which only one of the first conveying system (2) and the second conveying system (6) is configured to change the length of the said segment (11; 12) of the variable length of the first conveyance path (P1) or the second path (P2) transportation, respectively,

wherein said section (11; 12) of variable length of the first conveyance path (P1) or the second conveyance path (P2) is in a higher position relative to the machine (5).

4. Installation according to aspect 3, in which the mentioned section (11; 12) of the variable length of the first path (P1) transportation or the second path (P2) transportation is located above the mentioned first machine (5) (above it).

5. Installation according to any of the previous aspects, in which the first transport system (2) is configured to change the length of the segment (11) of the variable length of the first path (P1).

6. Installation according to any of the previous aspects and containing a control unit (22), which is configured to control the first conveying system (2) and/or the second conveying system (6), in particular, in order to change the length of the segment (11; 12) a variable length of the first transport path (P1) and/or the second transport path (P2).

7. Installation according to any of the previous aspects, in which at least one of the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) contains at least the first transport unit (14), which is configured to transport the mentioned the first products (3) or said second products (7), at least along the first section of the mentioned segment (11; 12) of variable length,

moreover, the first transporting node (14) contains the first conveyor (15), the second conveyor (16) and at least one driving node (17) for communicating at least one of the first conveyor (15) and the second conveyor (16 ) movement relative to the other between the first configuration, in which the first conveyor (15) and the second conveyor (16), at least partially overlap each other, and the second configuration, in which the second conveyor (16) has a first active section (18), which is offset from said first conveyor (15), passing through at least one intermediate configuration, in which said first conveyor (15) and said second conveyor (16) partially overlap each other, and said second conveyor (16) has a second an active section (19) which is offset towards the conveyor (15) and shorter than said first active section (18); the first transport unit (14) is (at least partially) in a higher position relative to (above) said first machine (5).

8. Installation according to aspect 7, in which only one of the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) (in particular, only the first transport system) contains at least the first transport unit (14).

9. Installation according to aspect 7 or 8, in which: in the first configuration, said first section has a first length; in the second configuration, said first section extends along at least part of the first conveyor (15) and at least part of the first active section (18) and has a second length that is greater than the first length; in an intermediate configuration, said first section extends at least part of the first conveyor (15) and at least part of the second active section (19) and has a third length that is greater than the first length and less than the second length .

10. Installation according to any one of aspects 7-9, in which the said driving unit (17) is designed to communicate the movement of the said second conveyor (16) relative to the respective first conveyor (15), and the first conveyor (15) is installed essentially motionless, said segment (11; 12) of variable length has a first end and a second end, which is located in a lower position relative to the first end of the segment (11; 12) of variable length; in particular, the first transport unit (14) is configured to transport said first products (3) or said second products (7) from the first end of the first segment (11; 12) of variable length to the second end of the segment (11; 12) of variable length.

11. Installation according to any one of aspects 7-10, wherein said first conveyor (15) is located above said second conveyor (16), said first active section (18) and said second active section (19) pass starting from one end ( 20) the first conveyor (15).

12. An apparatus according to any one of aspects 7-11, wherein said first conveyor (15) is essentially a linear conveyor for communicating said first articles (3) or said second articles (7) in a first direction (A ), said second conveyor (16) is essentially a linear conveyor designed to inform said first products (3) or said second products (7) of movement in a first direction (A); said driving unit (17) is designed to communicate to the second conveyor (16) movement in the first direction (A) and in the second direction (B), which is opposite to the first direction (A).

13. Installation according to any one of aspects 7-12, in which at least one (in particular, only one) of the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) contains at least the first transport unit ( 14) and the second transport hub (CG);

the first transport unit (14) is designed to communicate to said first products (3) or to said second products (7) movement in the first direction (A), the second transport unit (CG) is designed to communicate to said first products (3) or said second products ( 7) moving along the second section of said first section (11) and said second section (12), respectively, in a second direction (B), which is essentially opposite to the first direction (A).

14. Installation according to any one of aspects 7-13, in which at least one (in particular, only one) of the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) contains at least the first transport unit ( 14) and at least one respective additional first transport node (14'); said first transport unit (14) is intended to inform said first products (3) or said second products (7) of movement in the first direction (A), additional first transport unit (14ʽ) is intended to communicate to said first products (3) or said second movement items (7) along some additional section of said first segment (11) or said second segment (12), respectively, in the second direction (B), which is essentially opposite to the first direction (A).

15. Installation according to aspect 14, in which the additional first transport node (14') is defined as said first transport node (14); in particular, the additional first transport unit (14ʽ) contains an additional first conveyor (15), a second additional conveyor (16) and at least one additional driving unit (17) for communicating movement to at least one of the additional first conveyor (15) and additional second conveyor (16) relative to each other between the first configuration, in which the additional first conveyor (15) and the additional second conveyor (16), at least partially overlap each other, and the second configuration, in which the additional second conveyor (16) has an additional first active section (18), which is offset from said additional first conveyor (15), passing through at least one additional intermediate configuration, in which said additional first conveyor (15) and said additional second conveyor (16) at least partially overlap each other and said second conveyor (16) has a second active section (19) which is offset from said additional first conveyor (15) and shorter than said first active section (18); the first transport unit (14) is (at least partially) in a higher position relative to (above) said first machine (5).

16. The installation according to any one of aspects 7-15, in which at least one (in particular, only one) of the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) contains at least the first transport unit ( 14) and a guide device (23), which is designed to ensure the movement of said first products (3) or said second products (7) between said first transport node (14) and said second transport node (CG) or said additional first transport node ( 14ʽ) and defines the bending of said first segment (11) and said second segment (12), respectively; in particular, each guide device (23) contains the first curved guide (24), limiting said bend from the outside; in particular, the curvature of said first section (11) and/or respectively said second section (12) is approximately 180°.

17. Installation according to aspect 16, in which each guide device (23) is integral with the respective second conveyor (16) and is located in the region of one end of said respective second conveyor (16).

Claims (24)

1. Transport node for transporting various types of products of the industry for the production of smoking products, and the transport node (1) contains: the first transport system (2) for supplying the first products (3) of the industry for the production of smoking products along the first path (P1) of transportation to the first the entrance station (4) of the first machine (5); and a second transport system (6) for transporting the second products (7) of the smoking industry along the second transport path (P2) from the first output station (8) of the first machine (5) to the second input station (9) of the second machine (10) ; characterized in that: the first transport system (2) is configured to change the length of the first segment (11) of the first transport path (P1); the second transport system (6) is configured to change the length of the second segment (12) of the second transport path (P2); the first conveying system (2) and the second conveying system (6) are mutually positioned so that the first segment (11) and the second segment (12) at least partially overlap each other and/or are located side by side. 2. The transport unit according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a frame (F) on which the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) are mounted. 3. The transport unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it contains a control unit (22) configured to control the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6), in particular, it is configured to change the length of the first segment ( 11) the first transport path (P1) and the second section (12) of the second transport path (P2). 4. The transport unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that each of the first transport system (2) and/or the second transport system (6) contains (contain) at least one respective first transport unit (14), configured to transport the first products (3) and the second products (7), respectively, along at least the first section of the said first segment (11) and the said second segment (12), respectively, wherein the first conveying unit (14) comprises the first conveyor (15), the second conveyor (16) and at least one driving unit (17) for informing at least one of the first conveyor (15) and the second conveyor (16) of movement relative to the other between the first configuration, in which the first conveyor (15) and the second conveyor (16) at least partially overlap each other, and the second configuration, in which the second conveyor (16) has a first active section (18), which is offset from the first conveyor ( 15) passing through at least one intermediate configuration, in which the first conveyor (15) and the second conveyor (16) at least partially overlap each other, and the second conveyor (16) has a second active section (19) that is offset from the first conveyor (15) and shorter than the first active section (18). 5. Transport node according to claim 4, characterized in that in the first configuration, the first section has a first length; in the second configuration, the first section extends along at least part of the conveyor (15) and at least part of the first active section (18) and has a second length that is greater than the first length; in an intermediate configuration, the first section extends along at least part of the first conveyor (15) and at least part of the second active section (19) and has a third length that is greater than the first length and less than the second length. 6. The transport unit according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the driving unit (17) is designed to inform the second conveyor (16) of movement relative to the corresponding first conveyor (15), and the first conveyor (15) is stationary, the first segment (11 ) has a first end and a second end located in a lower position than the first end of the first segment (11), the first conveying system (2) is configured to transport the first products (3) from the first end of the first segment (11) to the second end of the first segment (11), the second segment (12) has a first end and a second end located in a lower position relative to the first end of the second segment (12), the second transport system (6) is configured to transport the second products (7) from the first end of the second segment (12) to the second end of the second segment (12). 7. The transport unit according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the first conveyor (15) is located above the second conveyor (16), the first active section (18) and the second active section (19) pass starting from the end (20 ) of the first conveyor (15). 8. The transport unit according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the first conveyor (15) is a linear conveyor designed to communicate the first products (3) or the second products (7) in the first direction (A), the second the conveyor (16) is a linear conveyor designed to tell the first products (3) or the second products (7) to move in the first direction (A), the driving unit (17) is designed to tell the second conveyor (16) to move in the first direction (A ) and in a second direction (B), which is opposite to the first direction (A). 9. Transport node according to any one of claims 4-8, characterized in that: each of the first transport system (2) and/or the second transport system (6) contains (contain) at least one respective second transport unit (CG); the first transport unit (14) is designed to communicate the first products (3) or the second products (7) movement in the first direction (A), the second transport unit (CG) is designed to communicate the first products (3) or the second products (7) movement along the second section of the first segment (11) and the second segment (12), respectively, in the second direction (B), which is opposite to the first direction (A). 10. The transport unit according to any one of claims 4 to 9, characterized in that each of the first transport system (2) and/or the second transport system (6) contains (contain) at least one corresponding additional first transport unit (14' ), the first transport unit (14) is designed to communicate the first products (3) or the second products (7) in the first direction (A), the additional first transport unit (14') is designed to communicate the first products (3) or the second products ( 7) movement along the additional section of the first segment (11) or the second segment (12), respectively, in the second direction (B), which is opposite to the first direction (A). 11. The transport unit according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that each of the first transport system (2) and/or the second transport system (6) contains (contain) at least one respective guide device (23), which is intended for ensuring the movement of the first products (3) or the second products (7) between the first transport unit (14) and the second transport unit (CG) or said additional first transport unit (14') and to limit the bending of the first segment (11) and the second segment ( 12) respectively; in particular, each guiding device (23) comprises a first curved guide (24) delimiting said bend from the outside. 12. Transport unit according to claim 11, characterized in that each guide device (23) is integral with the respective second conveyor (16) and is located in the region of one end of said respective second conveyor (16). 13. The installation of the industry for the production of smoking products, and the installation (13) contains: transport hub (1) according to any of the previous paragraphs; said first machine (5) configured to process said first products (3) of the smoking products industry and obtain said second products (7) of the smoking products industry; and said second machine (10). 14. Installation according to claim 13, in which the first transport system (2) and the second transport system (6) are in a higher position relative to the first machine (5) and/or the second machine (10).

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