Sealing device and sealing method for cigarette paper tube

Abstract

The invention discloses a cigarette paper tube sealing device and method, and the device comprises a release paper conveying assembly which is used for conveying release paper, and the release paper comprises an adhesive tape layer and a release layer; the paper tube feeding mechanism is used for placing cigarette paper tubes to be sealed; the paper tube fixing mechanism is used for fixing the cigarette paper tube in the vertical direction; the image processing mechanism is used for acquiring a first image of the gluing area and a second image of the paper tube placing cavity; the first auxiliary exhibition platform is used for providing stress for the adhesive tape layer so as to adhere the adhesive tape layer to a pipe opening of the cigarette paper pipe when the paper pipe fixing mechanism moves downwards by a certain distance; and the cutting mechanism is used for cutting the adhesive tape layer adhered to the pipe opening of the paper pipe for the cigarette. According to the method, the gluing step can be omitted, the phenomenon of excessive glue or insufficient glue does not exist, high-temperature glue curing is not needed, and the sealing paper for sealing is not prone to breakage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cigarette processing equipment technology, and in particular to a sealing device and sealing method for cigarette paper tubes. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional tobacco products require burning tobacco to release nicotine for consumers to inhale. The combustion temperature reaches over 650℃. Due to the high temperature, the release of nicotine also produces large amounts of toxic and harmful substances such as tar, CO, and ammonium nitrite, posing potential health risks. In recent years, with the increasing global efforts to control tobacco use and the growing health awareness of the public, research on new tobacco products has deepened and developed rapidly. Heated cigarettes release smoke by heating instead of burning. By adding a large amount of atomizing agents (glycerin, propylene glycol, etc.) to the tobacco material, nicotine is released as a carrier during the vaporization of the atomizing agents when the tobacco material is heated. The entire process occurs at a lower temperature (below 400℃), producing very little tar and other harmful substances, and has become increasingly popular with consumers in recent years.

[0003] Heated granule cigarettes are an important category of new tobacco products. They are new tobacco products that produce smoke by heating granules. Their appearance and consumption methods are similar to traditional cigarettes, and to a certain extent, they adapt to and meet the physiological and psychological needs of consumers.

[0004] Particles, as aroma-generating materials for heated cigarettes, have gained widespread attention due to their advantages such as large and uniform smoke production, strong controllability, and simple manufacturing process. To prevent granule spillage during filling, transportation, and cigarette use, the paper tubes must be sealed. However, the sealing process is difficult, and currently, adhesive coating technology is often used to attach sealing paper to the paper tubes. For example, Chinese patent CN112869228A discloses a process for sealing the openings of tubular workpieces, including the following steps: tube installation, installing each cigarette tube in the feeding hole of a feeding fixture; adhesive coating, applying adhesive to the openings of the cigarette tubes in the feeding fixture; paper coating, attaching high-transparency paper to the side of the feeding fixture with adhesive; drying, heating and drying the high-transparency paper to solidify the adhesive; cutting, laser cutting the excess high-transparency paper on the feeding fixture; and unloading, outputting the feeding fixture after the high-transparency paper has been cut. However, the above sealing method has the following defects and shortcomings: because the empty tube end is annular and has a very small cross-sectional area, the glue application is prone to unevenness. If the amount of glue applied is small, the adhesion is not firm. If the amount of glue applied is large, the glue overflow is likely to occur, affecting the appearance of the product. In addition, during the glue curing stage, the sealing paper is dried at high temperature. In order to ensure the sealing speed, the drying temperature is generally high (not less than 90°C). Therefore, the sealing paper is prone to rapid water loss and cracking at high temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problems of excessive or insufficient glue, and easy tearing of sealing paper in existing cigarette paper tube sealing methods. This invention provides a sealing device and method for cigarette paper tubes that eliminates the glue application step, avoids excessive or insufficient glue, does not require high-temperature curing of the glue, and reduces the likelihood of tearing of the sealing paper.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a sealing device for cigarette paper tubes, comprising:

[0007] A release paper conveying assembly is used to convey release paper, which includes an adhesive tape layer and a release layer. The upper surface of the adhesive tape layer includes multiple annular adhesive coating areas. The release paper conveying assembly includes, in sequence along the release paper conveying path, a feeding roll group, a guide roller, a first take-up roll group, and a second take-up roll group. The feeding roll group is used to wind the release paper. After the release paper on the feeding roll group passes through the guide roller, the release paper is separated into an adhesive tape layer and a release layer. The adhesive tape layer is wound on the first take-up roll group, and the release layer is wound on the second take-up roll group.

[0008] The paper tube feeding mechanism is located on the conveying path of the separated tape layer and above the tape layer, and is used to place the cigarette paper tubes to be sealed.

[0009] The paper tube fixing mechanism is located between the paper tube feeding mechanism and the tape layer and can reciprocate in the vertical direction and on the conveying path of the tape layer. The paper tube fixing mechanism includes multiple paper tube placement cavities that fix the cigarette paper tubes in the vertical direction, and the paper tube placement cavities correspond to the glue coating area.

[0010] An image processing mechanism is located above the adhesive tape layer and upstream of the paper tube feeding mechanism. It is used to acquire a first image of the adhesive coating area and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity. When the first image and the second image match, the paper tube fixing mechanism and the adhesive tape layer move synchronously to the bottom of the paper tube feeding mechanism, and the paper tube feeding mechanism provides cigarette paper tubes to the paper tube placement cavity.

[0011] The first auxiliary platform is located below the tape layer and opposite to the paper tube fixing mechanism. When the paper tube fixing mechanism moves downward a certain distance, the first auxiliary platform provides stress to the tape layer to stick the tape layer to the opening of the cigarette paper tube.

[0012] A cutting mechanism, located below the tape layer and downstream of the first auxiliary display stand, is used to cut the tape layer pasted on the opening of the cigarette paper tube.

[0013] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the image processing mechanism is further configured to determine the center point of the adhesive coating area and the center point of the paper tube placement cavity after acquiring the first image and the second image, so as to determine whether the center points of the two coincide.

[0014] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, a second auxiliary platform is further included, which is disposed between the guide roller and the first auxiliary platform, wherein the upper surface of the second auxiliary platform is a heating surface and contacts the lower surface of the tape layer.

[0015] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the heating temperature of the heating surface of the second auxiliary display stand is 35°C to 50°C.

[0016] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface of the first auxiliary display stand is made of rigid plastic.

[0017] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the first take-up roll assembly includes a first take-up auxiliary roller and a first take-up roller that pass sequentially along the conveying path of the tape layer, wherein the lowermost end of the guide roller and the uppermost end of the first take-up auxiliary roller are on the same horizontal plane.

[0018] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the paper tube feeding mechanism includes:

[0019] The hopper contains cigarette paper tubes;

[0020] Vibrating device, the vibrating device is connected to the hopper;

[0021] Multiple transition chambers are located below the hopper and extend vertically. Each transition chamber corresponds to a paper tube placement chamber. The upper end of the transition chamber is connected to the lower end of the hopper. Multiple retractable first claws are provided on the inner wall of the lower end of the transition chamber to hold the cigarette paper tube.

[0022] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the paper tube feeding mechanism further includes:

[0023] A baffle is positioned below the transition cavity;

[0024] The first driving unit has its driving end connected to the baffle, so that the baffle switches between a position that blocks the lower end port of the transition cavity and a position that opens the lower end port of the transition cavity.

[0025] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the inner diameter of the transition cavity is 1-2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the cigarette paper tube.

[0026] According to another specific embodiment of the invention, a slide rail is further included, disposed above the tape layer and extending along its conveying path;

[0027] The paper tube fixing mechanism includes:

[0028] The carrier is slidably connected to the slide rail, and the carrier is provided with multiple paper tube placement cavities;

[0029] The second drive unit has its drive end connected to the vehicle and is used to drive the vehicle to move back and forth along the slide rail.

[0030] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of retractable second claws are provided on the inner sidewall of the paper tube placement cavity to clamp the cigarette paper tube.

[0031] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, a carrier positioning detection device is also included, which is disposed at the first auxiliary display stand and the cutting mechanism, for detecting whether the carrier has moved to the designated position.

[0032] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, a third driving unit is further included, the driving end of the third driving unit being connected to the vehicle for driving the vehicle in the vertical direction.

[0033] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the carrier is provided with a first pin and a second pin that can extend and retract from the carrier, and the slide rail is provided with a first sliding hole and a second sliding hole that respectively match the first pin and the second pin. The first pin is used to be inserted into the first sliding hole, and the second pin is used to be inserted into the second sliding hole.

[0034] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, a pressure detection sensor is also included, disposed on the second pin.

[0035] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the image processing mechanism includes an industrial camera.

[0036] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the cutting mechanism is a laser cutting machine.

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for sealing cigarette paper tubes, comprising:

[0038] The release paper is installed to the release paper conveying assembly for conveying the release paper. The release paper includes an adhesive tape layer and a release layer. The upper surface of the adhesive tape layer includes multiple annular adhesive coating areas. The release paper conveying assembly includes, in sequence along the release paper conveying path, a feeding roll group, a guide roller, a first take-up roll group, and a second take-up roll group. The feeding roll group is used to wind the release paper. After the release paper on the feeding roll group passes through the guide roller, the release paper is separated into an adhesive tape layer and a release layer. The adhesive tape layer is wound on the first take-up roll group, and the release layer is wound on the second take-up roll group.

[0039] The cigarette paper tube to be sealed is placed in the paper tube feeding mechanism, which is set on the conveying path of the separated tape layer and located above the tape layer.

[0040] A paper tube fixing mechanism is provided between the paper tube feeding mechanism and the tape layer. The paper tube fixing mechanism can move back and forth in the vertical direction and in the conveying path of the tape layer. The paper tube fixing mechanism includes multiple paper tube placement cavities that fix the cigarette paper tube in the vertical direction. The paper tube placement cavities correspond to the glue coating area.

[0041] The image processing mechanism is used to acquire a first image of the glue coating area and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity. When the first image and the second image match, the paper tube fixing mechanism and the tape layer move synchronously to the bottom of the paper tube feeding mechanism. The paper tube feeding mechanism provides cigarette paper tubes to the paper tube fixing mechanism. The image processing mechanism is located above the tape layer and upstream of the paper tube feeding mechanism.

[0042] The paper tube fixing mechanism moves downward a certain distance, and the first auxiliary platform provides stress to the tape layer to stick the tape layer to the opening of the cigarette paper tube. The first auxiliary platform is located below the tape layer and is opposite to the paper tube fixing mechanism.

[0043] The cutting mechanism cuts the tape layer pasted on the opening of the cigarette paper tube. The cutting mechanism is located below the tape layer and downstream of the first auxiliary display stand.

[0044] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0045] 1. Compared to the traditional sealing method, there is no need to apply glue to the end of the cigarette paper tube, saving material costs;

[0046] 2. Compared to the traditional glue application and sealing method, there is no high-temperature drying process, so the sealed tape layer will not lose water and become brittle quickly, making it less prone to cracking and improving the success rate of sealing.

[0047] 3. Compared with the traditional glue-sealing method, there is no issue of glue overflow or insufficient glue after applying glue to the ends, which affects the appearance and improves the aesthetics of the seal.

[0048] 4. Compared with the traditional glue-sealing method, it reduces the steps of glue application and drying, greatly improves the sealing speed, and can increase the overall cigarette filling capacity. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sealing device for a cigarette paper tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 2 This is a partial side view of a sealing device for a cigarette paper tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a release paper provided in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 4 A plan view of the release paper provided in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the structure of an adhesive tape layer attached to a cigarette paper tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of the present invention is presented in conjunction with preferred embodiments, this does not mean that the features of the invention are limited to these embodiments. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the invention in conjunction with embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of the present invention. To provide a deep understanding of the invention, many specific details will be included in the following description. The invention may also be implemented without using these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of the invention, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0055] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0056] In the description of this embodiment, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "bottom", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship that the product of the invention is usually placed in during use. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0057] The terms “first”, “second”, etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be interpreted as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0058] In the description of this embodiment, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this embodiment based on the specific circumstances.

[0059] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, Figure 1 and Figure 2 These are a front view and a partial side view of a sealing device for a cigarette paper tube according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the sealing device for the cigarette paper tube includes:

[0061] Release paper conveying assembly 2 is used to convey release paper 1. Release paper 1 includes a tape layer 11 and a release layer 12. The upper surface of tape layer 11 includes multiple annular glue coating areas 15. Release paper conveying assembly 2 includes a feeding roll group, a guide roller 23, a first take-up roll group, and a second take-up roll group in sequence on the conveying path of release paper 1. The feeding roll group is used to wind release paper 1. After the release paper 1 on the feeding roll group passes through the guide roller 23, release paper 1 is separated into tape layer 11 and release layer 12. Tape layer 11 is wound on the first take-up roll group, and release layer 12 is wound on the second take-up roll group.

[0062] Paper tube feeding mechanism 3 is set in the conveying path of the separated tape layer 11 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown in the x-direction) and located above the tape layer 11, it is used to place the cigarette paper tube 100 to be sealed;

[0063] The paper tube fixing mechanism 4 is located between the paper tube feeding mechanism 3 and the tape layer 11 and can be positioned vertically (e.g., ...). Figure 1 The paper tube fixing mechanism 4 moves back and forth on the conveying path of the tape layer 11 (as shown in the y direction). It includes multiple paper tube placement cavities that fix the cigarette paper tube 100 in the vertical direction. The paper tube placement cavities correspond to the glue coating area 15.

[0064] Image processing mechanism 9 is disposed above tape layer 11 and upstream of paper tube feeding mechanism 3. It is used to acquire a first image of adhesive coating area 15 and a second image of paper tube placement cavity. When the first image and the second image match, paper tube fixing mechanism 4 and tape layer 11 move synchronously to the bottom of paper tube feeding mechanism 3. Paper tube feeding mechanism 3 provides cigarette paper tube 100 to paper tube placement cavity.

[0065] The first auxiliary platform 5 is located below the tape layer 11 and opposite to the paper tube fixing mechanism 4. When the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 moves downward a certain distance, the first auxiliary platform 5 provides stress to the tape layer 11 to stick the tape layer 11 to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0066] The cutting mechanism 7 is located below the tape layer 11 and downstream of the first auxiliary display stand 5, and is used to cut the tape layer 11 pasted on the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0067] In this technical solution, release paper 1 is installed onto release paper conveying assembly 2, and the cigarette paper tube 100 to be sealed is placed in paper tube feeding mechanism 3. An image processing mechanism acquires a first image of the adhesive coating area 15 and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity to determine if the positions of the paper tube placement cavity and the adhesive coating area 15 correspond. When their positions correspond, the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 and the adhesive tape layer 11 move synchronously below the paper tube feeding mechanism 3, and the paper tube feeding mechanism 3 feeds the cigarette paper tube 100 into the paper tube placement cavity of the paper tube fixing mechanism 4. The paper tube placement cavity fixes the cigarette paper tube 100 vertically. When the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 moves downward a certain distance, the lower end of the cigarette paper tube 100 contacts the adhesive tape layer 11, and the first auxiliary platform 5 located below the adhesive tape layer 11 provides stress to the adhesive tape layer 11, thereby firmly adhering the adhesive tape layer 11 to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100. After pasting, the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 and the tape layer 11 are moved synchronously to the cutting mechanism 7. The cutting mechanism 7 cuts off the excess tape layer 11 on the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100 in the paper tube fixing mechanism 4, thereby completing the sealing of the cigarette paper tube 100. This invention uses the glued area 15 of the release paper 1's tape layer 11 to paste the cigarette paper tube 100 to seal it, eliminating the glue application step and preventing glue overflow or insufficient glue. Furthermore, it does not require high-temperature curing adhesive, so the sealing tape layer 11 is less prone to cracking. In addition, by eliminating the glue application step and the high-temperature curing adhesive step, this invention can also improve the sealing speed and reduce the sealing cost.

[0068] Specifically, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the release paper 1 includes an adhesive tape layer 11 and a release layer 12. The adhesive tape layer 11 includes a first layer 13 and a second layer 14. The first layer 13 includes multiple annular adhesive-coated areas 15 and non-adhesive-coated areas 16 surrounding the adhesive-coated areas. The adhesive-coated areas 15 are arranged in an array and are used to connect to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100 for adhesion. The release layer 12 covers the first layer 13. The second layer 14 is a high-permeability paper, located on the other side of the first layer 13 opposite to the release layer 12. In this embodiment, due to the hydrophobicity of the adhesive, the positions in the second layer 14 corresponding to the adhesive-coated areas 15 are airtight high-permeability paper, while the non-adhesive-coated areas 16 are breathable. Optionally, ventilation holes are provided on the high-permeability paper. It is worth noting that the present invention does not limit the sparseness of the ventilation holes and can set them according to the ventilation requirements.

[0069] The release paper conveying assembly 2 includes a feeding roll group, a guide roller 23, a first take-up roll group, and a second take-up roll group. The release paper 1 is wound on the feeding roll group, and after extending from the feeding roll group, it passes through the guide roller 23. The adhesive tape layer 11 and the release layer 12 of the release paper 1 are separated. The adhesive tape layer 11 is extended for a certain distance and then wound to the first take-up roll group, while the release layer 12 is wound to the second take-up roll group. Specifically, in this embodiment, the feeding roll assembly includes a feeding roller 21 and a feeding auxiliary roller 22, the first take-up roll assembly includes a first take-up auxiliary roller 24 and a first take-up roller 25, and the second take-up roll assembly includes a second take-up auxiliary roller 26 and a second take-up roller 27. Thus, the release paper 1 is wound onto the feeding roller 21, and after passing through the feeding auxiliary roller 22 and the guide roller 23 in sequence, the adhesive tape layer 11 and the release paper 1 separate. The adhesive tape layer 11 extends horizontally for a certain distance before passing through the first take-up auxiliary roller 24 and then being wound onto the first take-up roller 25. The release layer 12 passes through the second take-up auxiliary roller 26 and then is wound onto the second take-up roller 27. Using this technical solution, the release paper 1 can be fed more smoothly.

[0070] For example, the feeding roller 21, the first receiving roller 25 and the second receiving roller 27 are all connected to the drive end of the roller drive unit. The rotation speed of the roller is controlled by controlling the roller drive unit, thereby controlling the conveying speed of the release paper 1, so that the tape layer 11 of the release paper 1 can be kept taut during the conveying process, and the tape layer 11 is not flat.

[0071] The paper tube fixing mechanism 4 includes multiple paper tube placement cavities, which can simultaneously seal multiple cigarette paper tubes 100, improving sealing efficiency.

[0072] Furthermore, the image processing mechanism 9 is also used to determine the center point of the glue coating area 15 and the center point of the paper tube placement cavity after acquiring the first image and the second image, so as to determine whether the center points of the two coincide.

[0073] Using this method, after acquiring images of the adhesive coating area 15 and the paper tube placement cavity, it is determined whether the center point of the adhesive coating area 15 coincides with the center point of the paper tube placement cavity based on the acquired images. If the center points of the two are at the same point, the side wall of the opening of the paper tube placement cavity is located within the adhesive coating area 15. In this way, when applying the tape layer 11 to the cigarette paper tube 100, the adhesive coating area can be applied to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100, ensuring the reliability of the seal.

[0074] Optionally, the image processing unit includes an industrial camera.

[0075] Specifically, it also includes a control unit, which is electrically connected to the image processing mechanism 9 to process the image after receiving it from the image processing mechanism 9.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second auxiliary display platform 6 is also included, which is disposed between the guide roller 23 and the first auxiliary display platform 5. The upper surface of the second auxiliary display platform 6 is a heating surface and contacts the lower surface of the tape layer 11.

[0077] Specifically, the upper surfaces of both the first auxiliary mounting platform 5 and the second auxiliary mounting platform 6 are flat. After the tape layer 11 is pulled out from the guide roller 23, it passes sequentially through the second auxiliary mounting platform 6, the first auxiliary mounting platform 5, and the first take-up auxiliary roller 24 before being wound onto the first take-up roller 25. Optionally, in order to prevent the tape layer 11 from spreading in the width direction (e.g., during the conveying of the release paper 1), Figure 2 If the sealing effect is affected by the deviation in the z-direction, baffle plates can be set on both sides of the first auxiliary display platform 5 and the second auxiliary display platform 6. The baffle plates extend along the conveying direction of the tape layer 11, that is, the upper surfaces of the first auxiliary display platform 5 and the second auxiliary display platform 6 are both set as grooves.

[0078] In this embodiment, the upper surface of the second auxiliary display stand 6 is a metal heating surface, which can preheat the tape layer 11 passing on it, thereby softening the adhesive and helping to increase the adhesiveness.

[0079] For example, the heating temperature of the heating surface of the second auxiliary display stand 6 is 35°C to 50°C.

[0080] Furthermore, the upper surface of the first auxiliary booth 5 is made of hard plastic.

[0081] The upper surface of the first auxiliary display stand 5 is made of a rigid plastic material with a certain degree of elasticity, which provides cushioning when sealing the cigarette paper tube 100, preventing damage to the cigarette paper tube 100. Optionally, the upper surface of the first auxiliary display stand 5 may be made of silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or thermoplastic rubber (Total Physical Response, TPR).

[0082] Furthermore, the lowermost end of the guide roller 23 is on the same horizontal plane as the uppermost end of the first receiving auxiliary roller 24.

[0083] Using this technical solution, the tape layer 11 can be stretched horizontally, so that the force of the tape layer 11 in contact with the cigarette paper tube 100 is uniform, which can ensure the consistency and reliability of the sealing.

[0084] Furthermore, the paper tube feeding mechanism 3 includes:

[0085] Hopper 31, containing a cigarette paper tube 100;

[0086] The vibrating device is connected to the hopper 31;

[0087] Multiple transition cavities 32 are located below the hopper 31 and extend vertically. Each of the multiple transition cavities 32 corresponds to a multiple paper tube placement cavity. The upper end of the transition cavity 32 is connected to the lower end of the hopper 31. The inner wall of the lower end of the transition cavity 32 is provided with a retractable first claw for clamping the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0088] Specifically, the hopper 31 is a funnel shape with a larger opening at the top and a smaller opening at the bottom. The transition cavity 32 is a long, thin cylinder extending vertically, and the lower end of the hopper 31 is connected to the upper end of the transition cavity 32. The hopper 31 is connected to a vibration device, which allows the cigarette paper tube 100 placed in the hopper 31 to enter the transition cavity 32, thereby vertically conveying the cigarette paper tube 100 to the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 below. It should be noted that the present invention does not limit the type of vibration device; for example, it can be a vibration motor, and the specific device can be selected according to actual needs.

[0089] The transition chamber 32 corresponds one-to-one with the paper tube placement chamber and is arranged in an array below the hopper 31. Using this technical solution, multiple cigarette paper tubes 100 can be supplied to the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 below at one time.

[0090] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first gripper is connected to a micro motor. After the cigarette paper tube 100 in the transition cavity 32 moves downward by a distance of one paper tube, the first gripper extends to hold the cigarette paper tube 100, ensuring that one layer of cigarette paper tube 100 is sealed at a time.

[0091] Furthermore, the paper tube feeding mechanism 3 also includes:

[0092] Baffle 33 is disposed below transition cavity 32;

[0093] The first driving unit has its driving end connected to the baffle 33, so that the baffle 33 can switch between blocking the lower end of the transition cavity 32 and opening the lower end of the transition cavity 32.

[0094] With this technical solution, a baffle 33 is provided below the transition cavity 32. The baffle 33 is connected to the driving end of the first driving unit. Under the drive of the first driving unit, the lower port of the transition cavity 32 can be opened or blocked, which can further ensure that the cigarette paper tube 100 inside the transition cavity 32 is prevented from falling out.

[0095] In this embodiment, a detection device can be set in the transition cavity 32 to detect the gap between adjacent paper tubes, or a detection device can be set on the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 to detect whether there is a cigarette paper tube 100, or the time when the baffle 33 is opened can be controlled by calculating the time when each paper tube falls into the paper tube fixing mechanism 4, and after a cigarette paper tube 100 falls from the transition cavity 32, the first gripper is driven to extend from the inner wall of the transition cavity 32 to hold the lowest cigarette paper tube 100.

[0096] For example, the inner diameter of the transition cavity 32 is 1-2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0097] By adopting this technical solution, the inner diameter of the transition cavity 32 is set to be 1-2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the cigarette paper tube 100. This allows the cigarette paper tube 100 to be transported smoothly and avoids the cigarette paper tube 100 getting stuck in the transition cavity 32.

[0098] Furthermore, it also includes a slide rail 8, which is disposed above the tape layer 11 and extends along its conveying path;

[0099] Paper tube fixing mechanism 4 includes:

[0100] The carrier 41 is slidably connected to the slide rail 8, and the carrier 41 is provided with multiple paper tube placement cavities;

[0101] The second drive unit is connected to the carrier 41 at its drive end and is used to drive the carrier 41 to move back and forth along the slide rail 8.

[0102] Specifically, in this embodiment, there are two slide rails 8, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the carrier 41 in the width direction of the tape layer 11 and extend horizontally along the conveying path of the tape layer 11. The carrier 41 is disposed between the two slide rails 8 and is slidably connected to the slide rails 8. The carrier 41 is also connected to the driving end of the second driving unit. Under the drive of the second driving unit, the carrier 41 can move back and forth along the slide rails 8 on the conveying path of the tape layer 11.

[0103] The carrier 41 is located below the transition cavity 32. The carrier 41 has multiple paper tube placement cavities corresponding one-to-one with the transition cavity 32, so that the cigarette paper tubes 100 coming down from the transition cavity 32 can enter the paper tube placement cavities. Multiple cigarette paper tubes 100 can be sealed at the same time, improving sealing efficiency. The paper tube placement cavity is a long and thin cylindrical shape with a slightly flared upper end to facilitate the smooth entry of the cigarette paper tubes 100 into the paper tube placement cavity.

[0104] In this embodiment, for ease of operation, after the cigarette paper tube 100 enters the paper tube placement cavity, its lower end extends a certain distance relative to the lower end surface of the carrier, and the opening of the lower end of the cigarette paper tube 100 just contacts the tape layer 11.

[0105] Furthermore, the inner wall of the paper tube placement cavity is provided with multiple retractable second grippers to hold the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0106] Specifically, the structure of the second gripper is the same as that of the first gripper, and will not be described again here. When the cigarette paper tube 100 enters the paper tube placement cavity, the second gripper extends from the inner wall of the cavity to hold the cigarette paper tube 100. This technical solution prevents the cigarette paper tube 100 from moving upward when subjected to stress from the first auxiliary platform, thereby allowing the adhesive tape layer 11 to be more firmly adhered to the end of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0107] Furthermore, it also includes a vehicle positioning detection device, which is set at the first auxiliary display stand 5 and the cutting mechanism 7, to detect whether the vehicle 41 has moved to the designated position.

[0108] Specifically, a carrier positioning detection device is installed at the first auxiliary display stand 5 to detect whether the carrier 41 has moved to a position below the transition cavity 32 and where its paper tube placement cavity corresponds one-to-one with the transition cavity 32. If the carrier 41 is detected to have moved to a position below the transition cavity 32 and where its paper tube placement cavity corresponds one-to-one with the transition cavity 32, the paper tube feeding mechanism 3 provides the cigarette paper tube 100 to the paper tube fixing mechanism 4; and a carrier positioning detection device is installed at the cutting mechanism 7 to detect whether the carrier 41 has moved to the cutting mechanism 7. If the carrier 41 is detected to have moved to the cutting mechanism 7, the cutting mechanism 7 cuts the tape layer 11 to remove excess tape around the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0109] It is worth noting that the present invention does not impose specific limitations on the carrier positioning detection device; for example, it can be a photoelectric switch or a proximity switch.

[0110] Furthermore, it also includes a third drive unit, the drive end of which is connected to the vehicle 41 and is used to drive the vehicle 41 in the vertical direction.

[0111] Specifically, the third drive unit is used to drive the carrier 41 in the vertical direction. After the paper tube placement cavity of the carrier 41 is filled with the cigarette paper tube 100, the third drive unit drives the carrier 41 to move downward a certain distance so that the lower end of the cigarette paper tube 100 contacts the tape layer 11 on the first auxiliary display stand 5 and is subjected to stress compression, thereby making the tape layer 11 firmly adhered to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100. When the stress on the cigarette paper tube 100 reaches a preset pressure value, for example, the preset pressure value is set between 0.3-5N, the third drive unit drives the carrier 41 to stop moving downward and reset the carrier 41 in the vertical direction.

[0112] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the structure after the tape layer 11 is pasted onto the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0113] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 This is a partial side view of the sealing device when the first pin 42 is inserted into the first sliding hole 81. In this embodiment, the carrier 41 is provided with a first pin 42 and a second pin 43 that can extend and retract from the carrier 41. The slide rail 8 is provided with a first sliding hole 81 and a second sliding hole 82 that respectively match the first pin 42 and the second pin 43. The first pin 42 is used to be inserted into the first sliding hole 81, and the second pin 43 is used to be inserted into the second sliding hole 82.

[0114] Specifically, on the two side walls of the carrier 41 opposite to the slide rail 8, there are retractable first pins 42 and second pins 43. Correspondingly, at the position corresponding to the first pin 42, the slide rail 8 has a first sliding hole 81 extending along its length direction, and at the position corresponding to the second pin 43, the slide rail 8 has a second sliding hole 82 extending in the vertical direction. For example, the first pin 42 and the second pin 43 are respectively connected to a motor to realize automatic entry and exit of the first sliding hole 81 and the second sliding hole 82.

[0115] When the carrier 41 moves along the conveying path of the tape layer 11, that is, when the second drive unit drives the carrier 41 to reciprocate between the cutting mechanism 7 and the paper tube feeding mechanism 3, the first pin 42 is inserted into the first sliding hole 81 to guide the horizontal movement of the carrier 41. When the carrier 41 moves vertically, that is, when the third drive unit drives the carrier 41 to move slightly downward a certain distance to ensure that the lower end of the cigarette paper tube 100 contacts the adhesive area 15 of the tape layer 11 and is subjected to the stress of the first auxiliary platform 5 to stick the tape layer 11 to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100, or moves upward to reset the carrier 41, the second pin 43 is inserted into the second sliding hole 82 to guide the vertical movement of the carrier 41.

[0116] In this embodiment, it is only necessary to move the carrier 41 downwards by a small distance to make the stress on the cigarette paper tube 100 meet the preset pressure value. Therefore, the second sliding hole 82 can be set to be slightly larger than the size of the second pin 43.

[0117] Furthermore, it also includes a pressure detection sensor, which is mounted on the second pin 43.

[0118] Specifically, when the carrier 41 moves downward, the second pin 43 is subjected to the force of the second sliding hole 82. By detecting the stress on the second pin 43, it is determined whether the stress on the cigarette paper tube 100 reaches the preset pressure value.

[0119] Furthermore, the cutting mechanism 7 is a laser cutting machine.

[0120] A laser cutting machine is used to make a circular cut on the tape layer 11 so that the excess tape layer 11 on the outside of the cigarette paper tube 100 can be completely removed after sealing. The cutting precision is high.

[0121] Furthermore, to facilitate automated control, the control unit is also electrically connected to each roller drive unit, the first drive unit, the second drive unit, the third drive unit, the micro motor, the carrier positioning detection device, the pressure detection sensor, and the laser cutting machine. The control unit receives detection signals from each detection component to control the driving and operation of each drive component, enabling the corresponding mechanisms to complete their adjustment and coordination.

[0122] In addition, when the control unit determines that the first image and the second image obtained by the image processing mechanism 9 do not match, it can control the various roller drive units to work together to make the first image and the second image match, so that the paper tube placement cavity corresponds to the glue coating area 15 of the tape layer 11.

[0123] Optionally, the roller drive unit can be a motor, and the first drive unit, the second drive unit, and the third drive unit can be a motor or a cylinder, etc.

[0124] The sealing device for cigarette paper tube 100 provided by this invention operates as follows: Release paper 1 is wound onto the feeding roll assembly. The release paper 1 is stretched out and, after passing through the guide roller 23, the adhesive tape layer 11 separates from the release layer 12 and is wound onto the first and second receiving roll assemblies respectively. The cigarette paper tube 100 to be sealed is then placed into the hopper 31. During operation, the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 moves below the image processing mechanism 9. While the adhesive tape layer 11 is preheated on the second auxiliary display stand 6, the image processing mechanism 9 acquires a first image of the adhesive coating area 15 and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity to determine if their center points coincide. When their center points coincide, the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 and the adhesive tape layer 11 move synchronously below the paper tube feeding mechanism 3, aligning the paper tube placement cavity with the transition cavity 32. Under the action of the vibration device, the cigarette paper tube 100 enters the transition cavity 32 from the hopper 31. The carrier 41 is detected as being directly below the transition cavity 32 by a carrier positioning detection device installed on the first auxiliary display stand 5. If the carrier 41 is directly below the transition cavity 32, the first drive unit drives the baffle 33 to open the lower end of the transition cavity 32 and releases the first gripper, so that the lowest layer of the cigarette paper tube 100 in the transition cavity 32 enters the paper tube placement cavity of the carrier 41 in a vertical state, and the lower end of the cigarette paper tube 100 contacts the adhesive area 15 of the adhesive tape layer 11 below. The second gripper in the paper tube placement cavity extends to hold the cigarette paper tube 100 therein, and the first gripper in the transition cavity 32 extends to hold the cigarette paper tube 100 therein. The first drive unit drives the baffle 33 to the bottom of the transition cavity 32 to block the lower end of the transition cavity 32, and the second pin 43 is inserted into the second sliding hole 82. The third drive unit drives the carrier 41 to move vertically downwards. When the pressure sensor detects that the pressure on the second pin 43 meets the preset pressure value, the third drive unit drives the carrier 41 to move upwards and reset. After the carrier 41 resets vertically, the second pin 43 retracts into the carrier 41, the first pin 42 is inserted into the first sliding hole 81, and the second drive unit drives the carrier 41 to move along the first sliding hole 81 towards the cutting mechanism 7. The feeding roller 21, the first receiving roller 25, and the second receiving roller 27 rotate so that the tape layer 11 moves synchronously with the carrier 41 to the cutting mechanism 7. When the carrier positioning detection device at the cutting mechanism 7 detects that the carrier 41 is in position, the carrier 41 and the tape layer 11 stop moving. The cutting mechanism 7 performs a circular cut on the tape layer 11 to remove excess tape layer 11 from the cigarette paper tube 100, thereby completing the sealing of the cigarette paper tube 100.

[0125] The sealing device for the cigarette paper tube 100 provided by the present invention eliminates the glue application step and the glue drying and curing step, thus avoiding glue overflow, insufficient glue, and brittle sealing paper. It also saves costs, improves sealing efficiency, enhances product quality, and increases the overall capacity of cigarette filling.

[0126] The present invention also provides a method for sealing cigarette paper tubes, the method comprising:

[0127] Release paper 1 is installed to the release paper conveying assembly for conveying release paper 1. Release paper 1 includes a tape layer 11 and a release layer 12. The upper surface of tape layer 11 includes multiple annular adhesive coating areas 15. The release paper conveying assembly includes a feeding roll group, a guide roller 23, a first take-up roll group, and a second take-up roll group in sequence on the conveying path of release paper 1. The feeding roll group is used to wind release paper 1. After the release paper 1 on the feeding roll group passes through the guide roller 23, release paper 1 is separated into tape layer 11 and release layer 12. Tape layer 11 is wound on the first take-up roll group, and release layer 12 is wound on the second take-up roll group.

[0128] The cigarette paper tube 100 to be sealed is placed in the paper tube feeding mechanism 3, which is set on the conveying path of the separated tape layer 11 and located above the tape layer 11.

[0129] A paper tube fixing mechanism 4 is provided between the paper tube feeding mechanism 3 and the tape layer 11. The paper tube fixing mechanism 4 can reciprocate in the vertical direction and in the conveying path of the tape layer 11. The paper tube fixing mechanism 4 includes multiple paper tube placement cavities that fix the cigarette paper tube 100 in the vertical direction. The paper tube placement cavities correspond to the glue coating area 15.

[0130] The image processing mechanism 9 is used to acquire a first image of the glue coating area 15 and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity. When the first image and the second image match, the paper tube fixing mechanism 4 and the tape layer 11 move synchronously to the bottom of the paper tube feeding mechanism 3. The paper tube feeding mechanism 3 provides the cigarette paper tube 100 to the paper tube fixing mechanism 4. The image processing mechanism 9 is located above the tape layer 11 and upstream of the paper tube feeding mechanism 3.

[0131] The paper tube fixing mechanism 4 moves downward a certain distance, and the first auxiliary platform 5 provides stress to the tape layer 11 to stick the tape layer 11 to the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100. The first auxiliary platform 5 is located below the tape layer 11 and is opposite to the paper tube fixing mechanism 4.

[0132] The cutting mechanism 7 cuts the tape layer 11 pasted on the opening of the cigarette paper tube 100. The cutting mechanism 7 is located below the tape layer 11 and downstream of the first auxiliary display stand 5.

[0133] This sealing method for cigarette paper tubes can provide similar advantages to the sealing devices described above.

[0134] While the present invention has been illustrated and described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that the above description is a further detailed explanation of the invention in conjunction with specific embodiments, and should not be construed as limiting the specific implementation of the invention to these descriptions. Various changes in form and detail can be made by those skilled in the art, including several simple deductions or substitutions, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A sealing device for cigarette paper tubes, characterized in that, include: A release paper conveying assembly is used to convey release paper, the release paper comprising an adhesive tape layer and a release layer, the upper surface of the adhesive tape layer comprising multiple annular adhesive coating areas, the release paper conveying assembly comprising, in sequence along the conveying path of the release paper, a feeding roll assembly, a guide roller, a first take-up roll assembly, and a second take-up roll assembly, the feeding roll assembly being used to wind the release paper, the release paper on the feeding roll assembly being separated into the adhesive tape layer and the release layer after passing through the guide roller, the adhesive tape layer being wound on the first take-up roll assembly, and the release layer being wound on the second take-up roll assembly; A paper tube feeding mechanism is set on the conveying path of the separated tape layer and located above the tape layer, and is used to place the cigarette paper tubes to be sealed. A paper tube fixing mechanism is disposed between the paper tube feeding mechanism and the tape layer and can reciprocate in the vertical direction and in the conveying path of the tape layer. The paper tube fixing mechanism includes a plurality of paper tube placement cavities that fix the cigarette paper tube in the vertical direction, and the paper tube placement cavities correspond to the glue coating area. An image processing mechanism is disposed above the adhesive tape layer and upstream of the paper tube feeding mechanism. It is used to acquire a first image of the adhesive coating area and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity. When the first image and the second image match, the paper tube fixing mechanism and the adhesive tape layer move synchronously to the bottom of the paper tube feeding mechanism, and the paper tube feeding mechanism provides the cigarette paper tube to the paper tube placement cavity. The first auxiliary platform is located below the tape layer and opposite to the paper tube fixing mechanism. When the paper tube fixing mechanism moves downward a certain distance, the first auxiliary platform provides stress to the tape layer to stick the tape layer to the opening of the cigarette paper tube. A cutting mechanism is disposed below the tape layer and located downstream of the first auxiliary display stand, for cutting the tape layer pasted on the opening of the cigarette paper tube.

2. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The image processing mechanism is further configured to determine the center point of the glue coating area and the center point of the paper tube placement cavity after acquiring the first image and the second image, so as to determine whether the center points of the two coincide.

3. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second auxiliary display stand, which is disposed between the guide roller and the first auxiliary display stand. The upper surface of the second auxiliary display stand is a heating surface and contacts the lower surface of the tape layer.

4. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 3, characterized in that, The heating temperature of the heating surface of the second auxiliary display stand is 35℃~50℃.

5. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper surface of the first auxiliary display stand is made of hard plastic.

6. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first take-up roll assembly includes a first take-up auxiliary roller and a first take-up roller that pass sequentially along the conveying path of the tape layer, wherein the lowermost end of the guide roller and the uppermost end of the first take-up auxiliary roller are on the same horizontal plane.

7. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The paper tube feeding mechanism includes: The hopper contains the cigarette paper tube; A vibrating device is connected to the hopper; Multiple transition cavities are disposed below the hopper and extend vertically. Each of the multiple transition cavities corresponds to one of the multiple paper tube placement cavities. The upper end of each transition cavity is connected to the lower end of the hopper. Multiple retractable first claws are provided on the inner sidewall of the lower end of the transition cavity to hold the cigarette paper tube.

8. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 7, characterized in that, The paper tube feeding mechanism also includes: A baffle is disposed below the transition cavity; A first driving unit, the driving end of the first driving unit being connected to the baffle, so that the baffle switches between a position that blocks the lower end port of the transition cavity and a position that opens the lower end port of the transition cavity.

9. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the transition cavity is 1-2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the cigarette paper tube.

10. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a slide rail, which is disposed above the tape layer and extends along its conveying path; The paper tube fixing mechanism includes: A carrier is slidably connected to the slide rail, and the carrier is provided with a plurality of paper tube placement cavities; The second drive unit, whose drive end is connected to the vehicle, is used to drive the vehicle to reciprocate along the slide rail.

11. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 10, characterized in that, The inner wall of the paper tube placement cavity is provided with multiple retractable second claws to hold the cigarette paper tube.

12. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes a vehicle positioning detection device, which is installed at the first auxiliary display stand and the cutting mechanism to detect whether the vehicle has moved to the designated position.

13. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes a third drive unit, the drive end of which is connected to the vehicle and is used to drive the vehicle in the vertical direction.

14. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 13, characterized in that, The carrier is provided with a first pin and a second pin that can extend and retract from the carrier. The slide rail is provided with a first sliding hole and a second sliding hole that respectively match the first pin and the second pin. The first pin is used to insert into the first sliding hole, and the second pin is used to insert into the second sliding hole.

15. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also includes a pressure detection sensor, which is mounted on the second pin.

16. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The image processing mechanism includes an industrial camera.

17. The sealing device for cigarette paper tubes according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting mechanism is a laser cutting machine.

18. A method for sealing a cigarette paper tube, characterized in that, include: The release paper is installed to the release paper conveying assembly for conveying the release paper. The release paper includes an adhesive tape layer and a release layer. The upper surface of the adhesive tape layer includes multiple annular adhesive coating areas. The release paper conveying assembly includes, in sequence along the conveying path of the release paper, a feeding roll group, a guide roller, a first take-up roll group, and a second take-up roll group. The feeding roll group is used to wind the release paper. After the release paper on the feeding roll group passes through the guide roller, the release paper is separated into the adhesive tape layer and the release layer. The adhesive tape layer is wound on the first take-up roll group, and the release layer is wound on the second take-up roll group. The cigarette paper tube to be sealed is placed in the paper tube feeding mechanism, which is set on the conveying path of the separated tape layer and located above the tape layer; A paper tube fixing mechanism is provided between the paper tube feeding mechanism and the tape layer. The paper tube fixing mechanism can reciprocate in the vertical direction and on the conveying path of the tape layer. The paper tube fixing mechanism includes multiple paper tube placement cavities that fix the cigarette paper tube in the vertical direction. The paper tube fixing mechanism and the tape layer move synchronously to the bottom of the paper tube feeding mechanism. The paper tube placement cavity corresponds to the glue coating area. The image processing mechanism is used to acquire a first image of the adhesive coating area and a second image of the paper tube placement cavity. When the first image and the second image match, the paper tube feeding mechanism provides the cigarette paper tube to the paper tube fixing mechanism. The image processing mechanism is disposed above the adhesive tape layer and located upstream of the paper tube feeding mechanism. The paper tube fixing mechanism moves downward a certain distance, and the first auxiliary platform provides stress to the tape layer to stick the tape layer to the opening of the cigarette paper tube. The first auxiliary platform is located below the tape layer and is opposite to the paper tube fixing mechanism. The cutting mechanism cuts the tape layer pasted on the opening of the cigarette paper tube. The cutting mechanism is located below the tape layer and downstream of the first auxiliary display stand.

Images