Stem sampling mechanism, cigarette making and tipping unit and stem sampling method

Abstract

The invention discloses a sliver sampling mechanism, a cigarette making and tipping machine set and a sliver sampling method.The sliver sampling mechanism is arranged on the cigarette making and tipping machine set and connected with a collecting hopper so as to collect slivers output by a cut stem separating device, the sliver sampling mechanism comprises a pipe body, the pipe body comprises a main pipeline, a first branch and a second branch, the main pipeline is communicated with the collecting hopper, and the first branch is communicated with the collecting hopper; the first branch is communicated with the pipe body and the dust removal chamber, and the second branch is communicated with the pipe body; and the conveying assembly is connected with the pipe body so as to convey the stem slivers to the dust removal chamber through the main pipeline and the first branch pipeline or convey the stem slivers to the sampling end of the second branch pipeline through the main pipeline and the second branch pipeline. Manual material receiving is not needed, the labor intensity is reduced, potential safety and production quality hazards are eliminated, and the sampling precision is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cigarette production, and in particular to a stem sampling mechanism, a cigarette making machine, and a stem sampling method. Background Technology

[0002] During the cigarette production process, small, strip-shaped tobacco stems, known as "stem bits," inevitably remain in the tobacco shreds of finished cigarettes. These stem bits are usually caused by incomplete removal during the re-drying stage of the tobacco raw materials. If the stem bit content in the tobacco shreds is too high, it will directly lead to poor uniformity of tobacco combustion, causing problems such as uneven burning ends, popping, and burner failure. It will also negatively impact the sensory smoking quality of the cigarette.

[0003] To ensure that the stem content in finished cigarettes meets the technical requirements of the manufacturing process, existing cigarette production equipment, such as cigarette making machines, is typically equipped with a stem separation device. (Refer to...) Figure 1 When the cigarette making unit is operating, the mixture of stems and impurities with high suspended density falls from the outlet of the stem separation device into the stem collection hopper of the stem recycling system, and is then transported through a conveying pipeline to the dust removal chamber for briquetting. Because the separation capacity of the stem separation device in the cigarette making unit is adjustable, operators need to periodically determine whether the amount of stems separated is reasonable according to production control requirements, and then adjust the separation capacity accordingly. In existing technology, operators or process inspectors need to use a container to collect the stems falling within a specified time (the sampling time requirement varies depending on the composition of the finished tobacco for different cigarette brands, but is generally not less than 3 minutes) at the collection hopper of the stem recycling system, and then determine whether the separation amount meets the requirements according to the process standards.

[0004] However, the stem collection hopper of the cigarette making machine is located at the outlet of the vibrating groove of the stem separation device inside the equipment's protective door. The operating space is small, which is not conducive to personnel operation. Operators need to squat in front of the hopper to manually collect the material, which not only increases the labor intensity but also poses a safety hazard of touching the vibrating groove with their hands. At the same time, during the manual sampling process, operators need to stay for 3-5 minutes, making it impossible to monitor the equipment's operating status and the product quality of the cigarettes being produced, which poses certain production quality risks. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the problems of limited operating space, high labor intensity, safety hazards, and inability to monitor equipment and product quality during the sampling of stems in existing coiling and splicing machines, this invention addresses these issues by incorporating a pipe body containing a main pipeline, a first branch pipeline, and a second branch pipeline, along with a conveying assembly connected to the pipe body. This enables the recovery and conveying of stems to the dust removal chamber via the main pipeline and the first branch pipeline, or to the sampling end via the main pipeline and the second branch pipeline. This eliminates the need for manual material handling, reduces labor intensity, removes safety and production quality hazards, and improves sampling accuracy.

[0006] Based on this, in a first aspect of the present invention, a stem sampling mechanism is provided, which is disposed on a winding and splicing unit and connected to a collecting hopper to collect stems output by a stem separation device. The stem sampling mechanism includes:

[0007] The pipe body includes a main pipeline, a first branch pipeline, and a second branch pipeline. The main pipeline is connected to the collection hopper, the first branch pipeline is connected to the pipe body and the dust removal chamber, and the second branch pipeline is connected to the pipe body.

[0008] A conveying assembly, connected to the pipe body, conveys the stalk to the dust removal chamber via the main pipeline and the first branch, or conveys the stalk to the sampling end of the second branch via the main pipeline and the second branch.

[0009] Optionally, the pipe body is a Y-shaped three-way integral molding structure, and the inner walls of the main pipe, the first branch pipe and the second branch pipe are all provided with a polytetrafluoroethylene anti-stick coating.

[0010] Optionally, the first branch is directly connected to the main branch in parallel; the second branch is at an angle of 30-60° to the axis of the main branch.

[0011] Preferably, the conveying assembly includes:

[0012] Gas supply components;

[0013] A first negative pressure generator is installed on the first branch and connected to the air supply component. The air supply component supplies air to the first negative pressure generator so that the main pipeline and the first branch pipeline can transport the stem to the dust removal chamber.

[0014] A second negative pressure generator is installed on the second branch and connected to the air supply unit. The air supply unit supplies air to the second negative pressure generator so that the main pipeline and the second branch can transport the stubble to the sampling end of the second branch.

[0015] Optionally, the conveying component is a screw conveyor, which is respectively installed on the first branch and the second branch, and conveys the stalks by rotating the helical blades.

[0016] Preferably, the stem sampling mechanism further includes:

[0017] A pneumatic valve is installed on the first branch and connected to the air supply component, which supplies air to the pneumatic valve to control the opening and closing of the first branch.

[0018] Optionally, the pneumatic valve is either an electric valve or a solenoid directional valve, and the pneumatic valve is respectively installed on the first branch and the second branch.

[0019] Preferably, the stem sampling mechanism further includes a collection component disposed at the sampling end of the second branch, the collection component including a collection bin, a sampling element, and a one-way stop element, wherein:

[0020] The collection chamber is connected to the sampling end of the second branch;

[0021] The one-way baffle is installed in the second branch to allow the stem to enter the collection bin from the second branch and prevent the stem from flowing back.

[0022] The sampling device is detachably installed at the bottom of the collection chamber to receive and collect the twigs entering the collection chamber.

[0023] Optionally, the collection chamber is specifically a conical structure that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, with a removable dust cover on the top. The dust cover has ventilation holes to ensure air pressure balance.

[0024] The sampling component is slidably connected to the bottom of the collection chamber via a slide rail, forming a pull-out structure. The pull-out path is equipped with positioning buckles to prevent the sampling component from shifting during the sampling process.

[0025] Preferably, the sampling device is equipped with a measuring element to detect the amount of stalks collected;

[0026] The measuring element is a weight sensor, which is located at the bottom of the sampling element to collect the weight signal of the twig.

[0027] Optionally, the measuring element is an infrared sensor, which is installed on the inner wall of the collection chamber to detect the stacking height of the stems.

[0028] Preferably, the stem sampling mechanism further includes a control module;

[0029] The control module is electrically connected to the air supply component, pneumatic valve, first negative pressure generator, second negative pressure generator and metering element respectively, and controls the operation of the pneumatic valve, first negative pressure generator and second negative pressure generator.

[0030] Preferably, the control module includes a timing element, a display element, and an interactive element;

[0031] The timing element is used to set and control the sampling duration;

[0032] The display element is used to display the sampling operation status, sampling duration, and the amount of residue collected by the measuring element in real time.

[0033] The interactive element is at least one of a manual trigger or a mode switching element, which triggers the control module to control the operation of the pneumatic valve, the first negative pressure generator, and the second negative pressure generator.

[0034] Preferably, the unidirectional stopper includes a baffle and an elastic element;

[0035] The baffle is hinged to the inner wall of the second branch and is kept in an initial closed state by an elastic element. Under the action of wind, the baffle overcomes the elastic force of the elastic element to rotate.

[0036] Optionally, the unidirectional baffle is a gravity-reset baffle. The baffle is hinged to the inner wall of the second branch through a rotating shaft. The baffle's own weight causes its free end to hang down and close naturally. When the skewer is being conveyed, the baffle is pushed to rotate and open under the action of wind.

[0037] In a second aspect of the invention, a winding and splicing unit is also provided, comprising:

[0038] The unit body includes a stalk separation device, a collection hopper, and a dust removal chamber;

[0039] In the aforementioned stem sampling mechanism, the stems separated by the stem separation device enter the stem sampling mechanism through the collection hopper, and the stem sampling mechanism transports the stems to the dust removal chamber or to the sampling end for sampling.

[0040] In a third aspect of the invention, a method for sampling stem tags according to the aforementioned stem tag sampling mechanism is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0041] When the coiling unit is running, the control module controls the air supply component to supply air to the pneumatic valve to keep the first branch line open. At the same time, it controls the first negative pressure generator to work. The stems separated by the stem separation device enter the main pipeline through the collection hopper and are then transported to the dust removal chamber along the first branch line to complete the recycling.

[0042] When sampling is required, a sampling command is triggered through the interactive element. After receiving the command, the control module cuts off the air supply to the pneumatic valve to close the first branch and controls the air supply component to supply air to the second negative pressure generator to start the second negative pressure generator.

[0043] Under the pneumatic conveying action of the second negative pressure generator, the stem is conveyed along the main pipeline and the second branch pipeline, pushes aside the one-way baffle and enters the collection bin, and finally falls into the sampling component;

[0044] The control module starts timing through the timing element. During the sampling process, the weight sensor on the sampling piece collects the weight signal of the twig in real time and feeds it back to the control module. The display element synchronously displays the sampling operation status, sampling duration and twig collection amount.

[0045] When the timing duration reaches the set value, the control module sequentially controls the second negative pressure generator to stop working, the air supply component to resume supplying air to the pneumatic valve, and the first negative pressure generator to work, so that the first branch is reconnected and the subsequent sticky material is delivered to the dust removal chamber.

[0046] Compared with the above-mentioned background technology, the technical solution provided by the present invention has at least the following technical effects:

[0047] This invention, by setting up a pipe body containing a main pipeline, a first branch pipeline, and a second branch pipeline, along with matching conveying components, connects the main pipeline to the collection hopper of the coiling unit, and the first branch pipeline connects the pipe body to the dust collection chamber. This retains the conventional path for conveying the skewer to the dust collection chamber while simultaneously creating an independent sampling and conveying channel through the second branch pipeline. This eliminates the need for operators to squat at the collection hopper to receive material, freeing them from the operational space constraints of the original sampling method and reducing labor intensity. Furthermore, the sampling process eliminates the need for manual container collection, avoiding the safety hazard of hand contact with the vibrating trough. Personnel do not need to remain continuously focused on sampling, and can simultaneously monitor the equipment's operating status and the quality of cigarettes being produced, eliminating potential production quality hazards. Furthermore, the dual-branch structure and the coordination of the conveying components ensure that the stem strips are conveyed in a directional manner throughout the process, avoiding spillage and omissions during manual material handling, guaranteeing the purity of the sampled material, and improving sampling accuracy. This, in turn, helps to improve the accuracy of subsequent judgments regarding the amount of stem strips separated. Finally, this invention does not require modification to the original cigarette making unit's stem strip separation device, collection hopper, dust removal chamber, or other components, making it highly adaptable and easy to modify. Attached Figure Description

[0048] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the prior art provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the stem sampling mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 3 This is an electrical control schematic diagram of the control module provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure label:

[0053] 100. Coiling and splicing unit; 1. Collection hopper; 2. Dust removal chamber; 31. Main pipeline; 32. First branch pipeline; 33. Second branch pipeline; 4. Second negative pressure generator; 5. Pneumatic valve; 6. Collection assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0055] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0056] As described in the background section, to ensure that the stem content in the finished cigarettes meets the manufacturing process requirements, existing cigarette production equipment, such as the cigarette making machine 100, is typically equipped with a stem separation device. (Refer to...) Figure 1 When the cigarette making unit 100 is operating, the mixture of stems and impurities with high suspended density will fall into the stem collection hopper 1 of the stem recycling system through the outlet of the stem separation device (not shown), and then be transported to the dust removal chamber 2 for briquetting. Since the separation capacity of the stem separation device in the cigarette making unit 100 is adjustable, operators need to periodically judge whether the stem separation amount is reasonable according to production control requirements, and then adjust the separation capacity accordingly. In the existing technology, operators or process inspectors need to use a container to collect the stems falling within a specified time (the sampling time requirement varies depending on the composition of the finished tobacco shreds for different cigarette brands, but is generally not less than 3 minutes) at the collection hopper 1 of the stem recycling system, and then judge whether the separation amount meets the requirements according to the process standards. However, the stem collection hopper 1 of the cigarette making unit 100 is located at the outlet of the vibrating trough (not shown) of the stem separation device inside the equipment protective door. The operating space is small, which is not conducive to personnel operation. Operators need to squat in front of the hopper to manually collect the material, which not only increases the labor intensity, but also poses a safety hazard of touching the vibrating trough with their hands. Moreover, the sampling accuracy is not high because a stopwatch is used to calculate the time. At the same time, the operator needs to stay for 3-5 minutes during the manual sampling process, which makes it impossible to monitor the equipment operation status and the product quality of the cigarettes being produced, and poses certain production quality risks.

[0057] Based on this, in a first aspect of the present invention, a stem sampling mechanism is proposed, comprising a tube body, a conveying assembly, a pneumatic valve 5, a collection assembly 6, a one-way baffle (not shown), a metering element (not shown), and a control module, to achieve automated collection and sampling of stems. The tube body is used to construct a dual-path conveying channel; the conveying assembly is used to provide conveying power; the pneumatic valve 5 is used to control the switching of the conveying channels; the collection assembly 6 is used to receive the sampled stems; the one-way baffle is used to prevent stem backflow; the metering element is used to detect the amount of stem sample collected; and the control module is used to automatically control the sampling and collection process.

[0058] Furthermore, the pipe body includes a main pipe 31, a first branch pipe 32, and a second branch pipe 33. The main pipe 31 is used to receive the slag output from the collection hopper 1 and divert it to the two branches. The first branch pipe 32 is a conventional recycling channel used to connect the pipe body to the dust removal chamber 2. The second branch pipe 33 is a sampling channel used to extend to the sampling end.

[0059] Furthermore, one end of the main pipeline 31 is fixedly connected to the outlet of the skewer collection hopper 1 of the coiling unit 100. The connection method includes, but is not limited to, flange connection, quick-release buckle connection, etc., to ensure that all skewer in the collection hopper 1 enters the main pipeline 31. One end of the first branch pipeline 32 is connected to the main pipeline 31, and the other end is connected to the dust removal chamber 2, serving as a conventional skewer recycling path. One end of the second branch pipeline 33 is connected to the diversion position of the main pipeline 31 corresponding to the first branch pipeline 32, and the other end extends to the sampling end outside the coiling unit 100, away from the narrow operating space, to facilitate sampling.

[0060] As an optional implementation, the pipe body is a Y-shaped three-way integral molding structure, and its material includes but is not limited to stainless steel, engineering plastics, etc. The inner walls of the main pipe 31, the first branch pipe 32 and the second branch pipe 33 are all provided with polytetrafluoroethylene anti-stick coating. This coating can reduce the adhesion of the sticky material due to moisture or static electricity, and avoid pipe blockage. The integral molding structure also improves the sealing and structural stability of the pipe body, and can reduce the risk of air leakage and material leakage. This implementation is only a preferred embodiment. It is also possible to use split pipes spliced ​​together by sealing joints, as long as dual-path conveying function can be achieved.

[0061] As an optional implementation, the first branch 32 is directly connected in parallel to the main branch 31. This design can minimize the frictional resistance of the stem collection and conveying process, ensure the smoothness of stem collection during normal production, and avoid stem accumulation caused by pipe bends. The angle between the axis of the second branch 33 and the main branch 31 is 30-60°, including but not limited to 30°, 45°, and 60°. This angle range can not only adapt to the installation layout of the sampling end on the outside of the unit, but also ensure that the stems can smoothly enter the collection component 6 with the help of the conveying power, avoiding stem retention due to excessive angle or poor diversion due to insufficient angle.

[0062] Furthermore, the conveying assembly provides power for the conveying of the skewer, and includes an air supply unit (not shown), a first negative pressure generator (not shown), and a second negative pressure generator 4, wherein the air supply unit is the power source; the first negative pressure generator is adapted to the recovery conveying of the first branch 32; the second negative pressure generator 4 is adapted to the sampling conveying of the second branch 33; so as to achieve the switching of the two branches by switching the air source.

[0063] Furthermore, the air supply unit is a compressed air source with pressure regulation function, including but not limited to compressed air storage tanks and compressed air interfaces built into the unit. Its output pressure can be adjusted according to the particle size and moisture content of the stalks. The air supply unit is connected to the first negative pressure generator, the second negative pressure generator 4, and the pneumatic valve 5 through air distribution pipelines. The air distribution pipelines are equipped with solenoid valves electrically connected to the control module to control the on / off of the air source of each branch.

[0064] Furthermore, a first negative pressure generator (not shown) is installed on the side of the first branch 32 near the dust removal chamber 2. Its air inlet is connected to the air supply component. When it is working, it generates negative pressure suction to suck the stems in the main pipeline 31 into the first branch 32 and transport them along the pipeline to the dust removal chamber 2 to complete the stem recovery. A second negative pressure generator 4 is installed on the second branch 33. Its structure is the same as the first negative pressure generator. When it is working, it generates negative pressure suction to suck the stems in the main pipeline 31 into the second branch 33 and transport them to the collection component 6 to achieve sampling.

[0065] As an optional implementation, the conveying component can be replaced with a screw conveyor, including but not limited to a micro electric screw conveyor. The screw conveyor is respectively set on the first branch 32 and the second branch 33. It includes a drive motor, a screw blade and a conveying pipe. The drive motor is electrically connected to the control module, which drives the screw blade to rotate and conveys the stem along the conveying pipe in a directional manner through the screw pushing action of the blade. This implementation is suitable for conveying stems with high moisture content and easy clumping, avoiding the blockage problem that may occur in pneumatic conveying.

[0066] Furthermore, the pneumatic valve 5 is installed on the first branch 32 and connected to the air supply component to control the on / off state of the first branch 32.

[0067] Furthermore, the pneumatic valve 5 is preferably a pneumatic butterfly valve, which is driven by a rotary cylinder to rotate the valve disc to realize the opening and closing of the corresponding pipeline. The rotary cylinder is connected to the air supply component and the air supply is controlled by the control module. When the pneumatic butterfly valve is energized and supplied with air, the rotary cylinder drives the valve disc to open, and the first branch 32 remains open to ensure the normal recovery and transportation of the stem; when the pneumatic butterfly valve is de-energized and the air supply is cut off, the rotary cylinder drives the valve disc to close, cutting off the stem recovery and transportation path, so that the stem can enter the sampling channel under the transportation power of the second branch 33; furthermore, referring to Figure 3 The pneumatic butterfly valve integrates position detection switches, namely the first position detection switch SBC1 and the second position detection switch SBC2, which are used to provide real-time feedback on the opening and closing status of the valve disc and transmit the signal to the control module to ensure the accuracy of the control logic.

[0068] As an optional implementation, the pneumatic valve 5 can be replaced by either an electric valve or a solenoid directional valve. Its control logic is consistent with that of the air supply component and the control module, as long as it can control the opening and closing of the branch. Alternatively, the pneumatic valve 5 can be installed in both the first branch 32 and the second branch 33, and the control module can realize the interlocking opening and closing of the two branches, that is, when one branch is open, the other branch is closed, which further avoids obstruction and diversion, and improves the conveying efficiency and sampling accuracy.

[0069] Furthermore, the collection component 6 is located at the sampling end of the second branch 33, i.e. on the outer wall of the winding unit 100. The collection component 6 includes a collection bin (not shown), a sampling component (not shown), and a one-way baffle (not shown), which are used to receive and store the sampling sticks and prevent backflow. Its installation position is far away from the narrow space of the original collection hopper 1, thereby solving the problem of inconvenience in manual sampling.

[0070] Furthermore, the collection chamber is fixedly connected to and communicates with the sampling end of the second branch 33; the sampling component is detachably assembled at the bottom of the collection chamber, preferably with a drawer-type structure, and the operator can take out the sampling component by pulling or disassembling it to conveniently obtain the internally collected stems; a one-way baffle is installed at the connection between the second branch 33 and the collection chamber, allowing only the stems to enter the collection chamber from the second branch 33 in one direction, preventing backflow.

[0071] As an optional implementation, the collection chamber is specifically a conical structure that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom. This structure can use gravity to guide the stalks to converge towards the sampling component at the bottom, preventing the stalks from adhering to the chamber wall. The top of the collection chamber is equipped with a removable dust cover with ventilation holes. The dust cover can prevent dust from spreading during sampling and protect the operating environment, while the ventilation holes can ensure the air pressure balance inside and outside the collection chamber, preventing the stalks from being affected by air pressure differences. The sampling component is slidably connected to the bottom of the collection chamber via a slide rail. The pull-out path is equipped with positioning buckles, which can fix the position of the sampling component when it is closed, preventing the sampling component from shifting due to equipment vibration during sampling, and ensuring that all stalks fall into the sampling component.

[0072] Furthermore, a one-way baffle is installed at the connection between the second branch 33 and the collection bin to enable one-way flow of the material sticks, preventing the material sticks or dust in the collection bin from flowing back to the second branch 33, affecting the conveying efficiency or contaminating the pipeline.

[0073] Furthermore, the unidirectional baffle includes a baffle plate and an elastic element. The baffle plate is made of wear-resistant plastic or metal and is hinged to the inner wall of the second branch 33. The elastic element is a spring, including but not limited to torsion springs and tension springs. One end of the elastic element is connected to the free end of the baffle plate away from the hinge point, and the other end is connected to the inner wall of the second branch 33. In its natural state, the elastic element is in a contracted state, which drives the baffle plate to maintain its initial closed state to completely block the connection port. When there are sticks being conveyed in the second branch 33, the wind force and inertia of the sticks overcome the elastic force of the elastic element, pushing the baffle plate to rotate around the hinge point, opening the connection port, and allowing the sticks to enter the collection bin smoothly. When the conveying stops, the elastic element returns to its contracted state, driving the baffle plate to reset and close, so as to prevent the sticks from flowing back.

[0074] As an optional implementation, the unidirectional baffle is a gravity-reset baffle. The baffle is hinged to the inner wall of the second branch 33 through a rotating shaft. The weight distribution of the baffle causes the free end to hang down naturally, maintaining the initial closed state. When the stick is being conveyed, the baffle is pushed to rotate around the rotating shaft under the action of wind force and inertia, and the connecting port is opened. After the conveying stops, the baffle falls back and closes under its own gravity.

[0075] Furthermore, a metering element (not shown) is installed on the sampling piece or inside the collection chamber to detect the amount of stalks collected, thereby providing data support for process judgment. The metering element includes, but is not limited to, weight detection, volume detection, height detection, etc.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the measuring element is a weight sensor, which is located at the bottom of the sampling component, including but not limited to the contact area between the bottom plate of the sampling component and the bottom of the collection chamber. Its sensing surface is in contact with the inner bottom of the sampling component, and it can collect the weight signal of the internal tag of the sampling component in real time and transmit the signal to the control module.

[0077] As one optional implementation, the measuring element is an infrared sensor, which is installed on the top inner wall of the collection chamber. The infrared sensor indirectly reflects the collection volume by detecting the height of the highest point of the stalk accumulation. As yet another optional implementation, the measuring element is a scale, which can be directly engraved on the inner wall of the sampling piece. The operator can quickly determine the amount of stalks by visually reading the scale value corresponding to the stalk accumulation.

[0078] Furthermore, the control module uses a PLC as the main control unit, which is electrically connected to the air supply unit, pneumatic valve 5, first negative pressure generator, second negative pressure generator 4 and metering element, and realizes the automated control of the sampling process through a preset program.

[0079] Furthermore, the control module includes timing elements, display elements, and interactive elements. The timing element is a built-in timer in the PLC, used to set and control the sampling duration. The display element shows the sampling operation status (including but not limited to "standby," "sampling in progress," "sampling complete," "fault," etc.), sampling duration (including elapsed and remaining time), and the collection data detected by the metering element in real time via indicator lights. The interactive element is a manual trigger, including a start button (SB1) and a stop button (SB2), used to manually start or stop the sampling process. After the trigger signal is transmitted to the PLC, the PLC executes corresponding control logic such as pipeline switching, conveyor start / stop, and reset. The control module also includes relays (KA1, KA2), solenoid valves (Y1, Y2), and other actuators to amplify the PLC output signal to drive the pneumatic valve 5 and the negative pressure generator.

[0080] In a second aspect of the invention, a winding and splicing unit 100 is provided, with reference to... Figure 2 It includes the unit body and the aforementioned stem sampling mechanism. The unit body includes a stem separation device, a collection hopper 1, and a dust removal chamber 2. The stem separation device is the original stem separation device of the unit, used to separate stems and impurities with high suspended density from the tobacco. The collection hopper 1 is the original stem recovery hopper of the unit, located at the outlet of the vibrating groove of the stem separation device inside the unit's protective door. The dust removal chamber 2 is the original stem recovery and processing equipment of the unit, used to compress the recovered stems. The main pipeline 31 of the stem sampling mechanism is fixedly connected to the outlet of the collection hopper 1, the first branch pipeline 32 is connected to the inlet pipeline of the dust removal chamber 2, and the second branch pipeline 33 extends to the sampling end outside the unit. It does not require major modifications to the components of the unit body, has strong adaptability, and is easy to modify.

[0081] In a third aspect of the invention, a method for sampling stem tags based on the aforementioned stem tag sampling mechanism is also provided, comprising the following steps:

[0082] When the winding and splicing unit 100 is running, the unit's operating signals (corresponding to) Figure 3 The I0.3 signal is input to the control module, which controls the air supply component to supply air to the pneumatic valve 5. The valve disc of the pneumatic valve 5 opens (corresponding to butterfly valve position 1). The first position detection switch (SBC1) detects the valve opening signal and feeds it back to the control module. At the same time, the control module controls the first negative pressure generator to start. The stems separated by the stem separation device fall into the main pipeline 31 through the collection hopper 1. Under the negative pressure suction of the first negative pressure generator, they are transported to the dust removal chamber 2 along the first branch pipeline 32 to complete the recycling. At this time, the stem sampling mechanism is in standby mode and does not affect the normal production of the unit.

[0083] When sampling is required, the operator triggers the sampling command through the start button (SB1) of the interactive element. After receiving the command, the control module first controls the air supply component to cut off the air supply to the pneumatic valve 5. The valve disc of the pneumatic valve 5 is closed under the action of the rotary cylinder (corresponding to butterfly valve position 2). The second position detection switch (SBC2) detects the valve closing signal and feeds it back to the control module. Then, the control module controls the air supply component to supply air to the second negative pressure generator 4, starts the second negative pressure generator 4, and at the same time controls the indicator light (H1) of the display element to light up, indicating "sampling in progress", and the timing element starts timing.

[0084] After the second negative pressure generator 4 is started, it generates negative pressure suction. The stalks in the main pipeline 31 enter the second branch pipeline 33 under the action of suction, and are conveyed to the one-way baffle along the second branch pipeline 33. The wind force and inertia of the stalks push open the one-way baffle, enter the collection bin, and settle under the action of gravity, and finally fall into the sampling device at the bottom. During the sampling process, the metering element collects the stalk collection volume data in real time and feeds it back to the control module. The display element displays the sampling time and collection volume data in real time so that the operator can monitor it in real time.

[0085] When the timing element reaches the set sampling duration, the control module executes the following actions in sequence:

[0086] First, the gas supply component is controlled to cut off the gas supply to the second negative pressure generator 4, and the second negative pressure generator 4 stops working;

[0087] Then, the air supply component is controlled to resume supplying air to the pneumatic valve 5, the valve disc of the pneumatic valve 5 is reset and opened (corresponding to butterfly valve position 1), and the first position detection switch (SBC1) provides feedback of the opening signal;

[0088] Then, the first negative pressure generator is controlled to work, and the subsequent residue is restored to be transported to the dust removal chamber 2 along the first branch 32;

[0089] Finally, the indicator light on the control display element indicates "sampling complete," the timing element is reset to zero, and the operator can remove the sample for tag retrieval.

[0090] When the operator presses the stop button (SB2) during the sampling process, or when the winding unit 100 stops (i.e., the unit operation signal I0.3 disappears), the control module executes the emergency reset procedure. Its action is the same as the "sampling end reset", that is, first stop the second negative pressure generator 4, and then reset the pneumatic valve 5 to the first branch 32 to ensure that the twig recovery path is not interrupted, and avoid twig accumulation or equipment failure.

[0091] As an optional implementation, the control module supports preset sampling durations. Operators can preset the sampling durations corresponding to different cigarette brands through interactive elements, including but not limited to 3 minutes, 4 minutes, and 5 minutes. The mode can be switched directly during sampling without manual adjustment each time.

[0092] In addition, the display element can be a touch screen and integrate the functions of the aforementioned interactive elements. Operators can start sampling, adjust parameters, and view historical sampling data (including but not limited to sampling time, collection volume, etc.) through touch operation to improve the ease of operation.

[0093] It should be noted that in this specification, relational terms such as first and second are used only to distinguish one entity from several other entities, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities.

[0094] This article uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present invention. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to the present invention without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A stem sampling mechanism, installed on a winding and splicing unit and connected to a collection hopper, for collecting stems output from a stem separation device, characterized in that, The tag sampling mechanism includes: The pipe body includes a main pipeline, a first branch pipeline, and a second branch pipeline. The main pipeline is connected to the collection hopper, the first branch pipeline is connected to the pipe body and the dust removal chamber, and the second branch pipeline is connected to the pipe body. A conveying assembly, connected to the pipe body, conveys the stalk to the dust removal chamber via the main pipeline and the first branch, or conveys the stalk to the sampling end of the second branch via the main pipeline and the second branch.

2. The stem sampling mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying assembly includes: Gas supply components; A first negative pressure generator is installed on the first branch and connected to the air supply component. The air supply component supplies air to the first negative pressure generator so that the main pipeline and the first branch pipeline can transport the stem to the dust removal chamber. A second negative pressure generator is installed on the second branch and connected to the air supply unit. The air supply unit supplies air to the second negative pressure generator so that the main pipeline and the second branch can transport the stubble to the sampling end of the second branch.

3. The stem tag sampling mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The tag sampling mechanism also includes: A pneumatic valve is installed on the first branch and connected to the air supply component, which supplies air to the pneumatic valve to control the opening and closing of the first branch.

4. The stem tag sampling mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The stalk sampling mechanism further includes a collection component disposed at the sampling end of the second branch. The collection component includes a collection bin, a sampling element, and a one-way stop element, wherein: The collection chamber is connected to the sampling end of the second branch; The one-way baffle is installed in the second branch to allow the stem to enter the collection bin from the second branch and prevent the stem from flowing back. The sampling device is detachably installed at the bottom of the collection chamber to receive and collect the twigs entering the collection chamber.

5. The stem sampling mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The sampling device is equipped with a measuring element to detect the amount of stalks collected; The measuring element is a weight sensor, which is located at the bottom of the sampling element to collect the weight signal of the twig.

6. The stem sampling mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The stalk sampling mechanism also includes a control module; The control module is electrically connected to the air supply component, pneumatic valve, first negative pressure generator, second negative pressure generator and metering element respectively, and controls the operation of the pneumatic valve, first negative pressure generator and second negative pressure generator.

7. The stem tag sampling mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The control module includes timing elements, display elements, and interactive elements; The timing element is used to set and control the sampling duration; The display element is used to display the sampling operation status, sampling duration, and the amount of residue collected by the measuring element in real time. The interactive element is at least one of a manual trigger or a mode switching element, which triggers the control module to control the operation of the pneumatic valve, the first negative pressure generator, and the second negative pressure generator.

8. The stem tag sampling mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The unidirectional stopper includes a baffle and an elastic element; The baffle is hinged to the inner wall of the second branch and is kept in an initial closed state by an elastic element. Under the action of wind, the baffle overcomes the elastic force of the elastic element to rotate.

9. A coiling and splicing unit, characterized in that, include: The unit body includes a stalk separation device, a collection hopper, and a dust removal chamber; As described in any one of claims 1-8, the stem sampling mechanism separates the stems from the stem separation device and enters the stem sampling mechanism through the collection hopper. The stem sampling mechanism then transports the stems to the dust removal chamber or to the sampling end for sampling.

10. A method for sampling stem tags using a stem tag sampling mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: When the coiling unit is running, the control module controls the air supply component to supply air to the pneumatic valve to keep the first branch line open. At the same time, it controls the first negative pressure generator to work. The stems separated by the stem separation device enter the main pipeline through the collection hopper and are then transported to the dust removal chamber along the first branch line to complete the recycling. When sampling is required, a sampling command is triggered through the interactive element. After receiving the command, the control module cuts off the air supply to the pneumatic valve to close the first branch and controls the air supply component to supply air to the second negative pressure generator to start the second negative pressure generator. Under the pneumatic conveying action of the second negative pressure generator, the stem is conveyed along the main pipeline and the second branch pipeline, pushes aside the one-way baffle and enters the collection bin, and finally falls into the sampling component; The control module starts timing through the timing element. During the sampling process, the weight sensor on the sampling piece collects the weight signal of the twig in real time and feeds it back to the control module. The display element synchronously displays the sampling operation status, sampling duration and twig collection amount. When the timing duration reaches the set value, the control module sequentially controls the second negative pressure generator to stop working, the air supply component to resume supplying air to the pneumatic valve, and the first negative pressure generator to work, so that the first branch is reconnected and the subsequent sticky material is delivered to the dust removal chamber.

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