Gatlin filter rod processing device and processing method

Abstract

The application discloses a Gallatin filter rod processing device and a processing method. The processing device comprises an outer layer wire feeder, an inner layer wire feeder, a mandrel and a hot forming die. The outer layer wire feeder is arranged to form an outer layer wire feeding channel. The inner layer wire feeder is connected with the outer layer wire feeder and passes through the outer layer wire feeding channel. The mandrel is connected with the inner layer wire feeder and passes through the inner layer wire feeding channel. The hot forming die comprises a hot die body and a filter rod die. The hot die body is provided with a hot die cavity, and the filter rod die can extend into the hot die cavity. The filter rod die comprises a die seat and a plurality of forming shafts. One end of the die seat is connected with the forming shafts, and the other end is connected with the inner layer wire feeder. The die seat is provided with an inner die wire feeding channel which is in communication with the inner layer wire feeding channel. The plurality of forming shafts are arranged at intervals, and the distal end of the mandrel passes through the inner die wire feeding channel and the gap between the plurality of forming shafts. The processing device has the advantages of simple structure, convenient operation, easy size control and high size consistency of the produced multi-channel filter rod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of filter rod processing technology, and in particular to a Gatling filter rod processing apparatus and processing method. Background Technology

[0002] The filter rod is an important component of cigarettes, primarily functioning to trap and filter particulate matter in the smoke, thus reducing tar and harmful substances. In recent years, Gatling filters have emerged on the market, which utilize Bernoulli's principle and multi-channel binary composite technology to accelerate smoke concentration and aroma gathering, optimizing the smoking experience.

[0003] Currently, Gatling filter rods are mainly one-piece molded products, represented by silicone Gatling filter rods. However, their limitations in actual large-scale production and application are becoming increasingly apparent: the high production costs are due to the silicone raw materials and corresponding molding processes; the physicochemical stability of the material fluctuates in long-term storage and use environments, affecting the durability and functional stability of the filter rod structure; and the complex manufacturing process and difficulty in controlling the molding process restrict production efficiency and the stability of large-scale supply. These issues place higher demands on the long-term quality and reliability of filter rod products, necessitating systematic optimization and replacement at the material and process levels.

[0004] In contrast, cellulose acetate, as the mainstream material for traditional filter rods, boasts significant cost advantages thanks to its mature supply chain and proven material stability. Using cellulose acetate as a raw material to prepare Gatling filter rods demonstrates superior performance in molding efficiency, surface quality, and structural consistency. Based on the comprehensive advantages of cellulose acetate in terms of environmental friendliness, economy, and stability, it exhibits significant potential for substitution in the industrial application of filter rods. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a Gatling filter rod processing device and processing method to solve the technical problems of complex, high-cost, and difficult-to-control Gatling filter rod production processes in the prior art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution provided by the present invention is as follows: In a first aspect, the present invention provides a Gatling filter rod processing apparatus, comprising an outer layer wire feeder, an inner layer wire feeder, a mandrel, and a thermoforming mold. The outer layer wire feeder forms an outer layer wire feeding channel for the passage of compressed air and a wire bundle. The inner layer wire feeder forms an inner layer wire feeding channel for the passage of compressed air and a wire bundle. The inner layer wire feeder is connected to the outer layer wire feeder and passes through the outer layer wire feeding channel. The mandrel is connected to the inner layer wire feeder and passes through the inner layer wire feeding channel. The thermoforming mold comprises a hot mold body and a filter rod mold. The hot mold body forms a hot mold cavity, and the filter rod mold can extend into the hot mold cavity to heat the filter rod mold. The filter rod mold comprises a mold base and a plurality of forming shafts. One end of the mold base is connected to the forming shafts, and the other end is connected to the inner layer wire feeder. An in-mold wire feeding channel is formed in the mold base and communicates with the inner layer wire feeding channel. The plurality of forming shafts are spaced apart, and the distal end of the mandrel passes through the in-mold wire feeding channel and the gap between the plurality of forming shafts.

[0007] Furthermore, the mold base has multiple flow channels formed therein, and the number of flow channels is equal to the number of forming shafts; the filter rod mold also includes multiple reinforcing shafts, and the reinforcing shafts are respectively arranged between adjacent flow channels, and the reinforcing shafts are connected to the forming shafts.

[0008] Furthermore, the multiple forming shafts are evenly spaced.

[0009] Furthermore, the inner layer wire feeder has a first air inlet, which is connected to the inner layer wire feeding channel.

[0010] Furthermore, the inner layer wire feeder includes a flared section and an inner cylinder section, with the first air inlet formed in the flared section; the inner cylinder section passes through the outer layer wire feeding channel, the flared section and the inner cylinder section are detachably connected, and a first gap is formed at the connection between the two, facing the inner cylinder section; a first inner annular cavity is formed in the wall of the flared section, the first inner annular cavity communicates with the first air inlet, and communicates with the inner layer wire feeding channel through the first gap.

[0011] Furthermore, the inner wire feeder includes a first gasket disposed between the flared section and the inner cylinder section to form the first gap between them.

[0012] Furthermore, the outer wire feeder includes a hollow body section, a cylindrical section, and a horn section. The cylindrical section and the horn section are respectively connected to both ends of the body section and form the outer wire feeding channel. The cylindrical section is located at the end of the body section closer to the thermoforming mold. The diameter of the horn section away from the body section is larger than the diameter of the cylindrical section.

[0013] Furthermore, a second air inlet and a second inner ring cavity are formed on the horn segment, the second inner ring cavity is located in the wall of the horn segment, and the second air inlet communicates with the second inner ring cavity; a second gap is formed between the horn segment and the body segment, facing the cylindrical segment, and the second inner ring cavity communicates with the outer wire feeding channel through the second gap.

[0014] Furthermore, the outer wire feeder also includes a second gasket, the body segment and the horn segment are detachably connected, and the second gasket is disposed between the body segment and the horn segment to form the second gap between them.

[0015] Furthermore, the Gatling filter rod processing device includes a guide rail, a slider, and a base. The slider is slidably disposed on the guide rail, and the base is mounted on the slider. The outer layer wire feeder is fixed on the base and moves under the drive of the slider so that the outer layer wire feeder, the inner layer wire feeder, the core rod, and the filter rod mold approach or move away from the hot mold body, and the filter rod mold enters or leaves the hot film cavity.

[0016] Furthermore, the hot mold body includes an outer mold and a hot mold core. The outer mold surrounds a heating cavity, and the hot mold core is disposed within the heating cavity, forming a hot mold cavity. A third air inlet is formed on the outer mold, and the third air inlet is connected to the heating cavity to input hot air. An air outlet is formed on the hot mold core, and the air outlet is connected to the heating cavity.

[0017] Furthermore, the hot mold body also includes a flange extension section, which is connected to the outer mold; the end of the hot mold core facing the filter rod mold is flared, the through groove of the flange extension section is flared and its opening facing the hot mold core is smaller than the opening away from the hot mold core, and the opening of the flange extension section abuts against the hot mold core.

[0018] Furthermore, a groove is formed at one end of the flange extension section facing the outer mold, and a water inlet and a first water outlet are formed on the periphery of the flange extension section corresponding to the groove. The water inlet and the first water outlet are respectively connected to the groove, and the first water outlet is located at the bottom of the flange extension section to allow condensate to flow out.

[0019] Furthermore, a second water outlet is formed on the outer mold, and the second water outlet is connected to the heating chamber.

[0020] Furthermore, the Gatling filter rod processing device also includes a mounting base and a plurality of cold forming molds. The thermoforming molds and the cold forming molds are respectively mounted on the mounting base, and the thermoforming molds and the plurality of cold forming molds are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the mandrel.

[0021] Furthermore, the cold forming mold includes a cold mold body and a cold mold core. The cold mold body surrounds a cooling cavity, and the cold mold core is disposed within the cooling cavity. The cold mold core surrounds a cold mold cavity to accommodate the incoming filament bundle. A fourth air inlet is formed on the cold mold body, and the fourth air inlet communicates with the cooling cavity to allow cold air to enter. An air inlet hole is formed on the cold mold core, and the air inlet hole communicates with the cooling cavity and the cold mold cavity to cool the filament bundle.

[0022] Furthermore, the cold forming mold also includes a cold mold sleeve, which wraps around the periphery of the cold mold core and forms a gap with the cold mold core to allow cold air to pass through.

[0023] A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for processing a Gatling filter rod, utilizing the aforementioned Gatling filter rod processing apparatus, comprising the following steps: adjusting the outer layer wire feeding channel, the inner layer wire feeding channel, the mandrel, and the hot mold cavity to be coaxial; the mandrel passing through the inner layer wire feeding channel and the in-mold wire feeding channel and extending into the gap formed by the forming shaft; moving the outer layer wire feeder, the inner layer wire feeder, the mandrel, and the filter rod mold, and feeding the filter rod mold into the hot mold cavity; feeding a wire bundle and compressed air into the outer layer wire feeding channel and the inner layer wire feeding channel, the compressed air driving the wire bundle to move towards the filter rod mold, the wire bundle entering the in-mold wire feeding channel and covering the surface of the forming shaft; feeding hot air into the hot mold cavity, the wire bundle being heated and softened to fill the hot mold cavity, and the Gatling filter rod being initially shaped under the action of the mandrel and the forming shaft.

[0024] Furthermore, the preliminarily shaped Gatling filter rod enters a cold forming mold and is cooled to obtain the Gatling filter rod.

[0025] The Gatling filter rod processing device provided by this invention employs a double-layer feeding system with an outer and inner layer wire feeder. Guided by compressed air and a mandrel, the wires enter the hot mold cavity, where they soften under the influence of hot air. The softened wire bundles quickly and evenly fill the cavity, simultaneously and uniformly covering multiple forming shafts, forming a unified structure and thus creating a filter rod with multiple channels. This achieves synchronous feeding and differentiated pretreatment of the inner and outer layer wire bundles, laying the foundation for the subsequent formation of a density gradient filter rod structure. The aforementioned processing device is simple in structure, easy to operate, and allows for easy dimensional control, resulting in highly consistent dimensions in the produced multi-channel filter rods. It significantly reduces production costs and greatly improves processing stability and production efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application 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 some embodiments recorded in this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the Gatling filter rod processing device in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 for Figure 1 Side view; Figure 3 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the wire feeder, core rod and filter rod mold; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A sectional view; Figure 5 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the middle filter rod mold from another angle; Figure 6 for Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of a thermoforming mold; Figure 7 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a mid-cooling forming mold.

[0028] Figure label: 10. Outer layer wire feeder; 11. Outer layer wire feeding channel; 12. Body section; 13. Cylindrical section; 14. Horn section; 141. Second air inlet; 142. Second inner ring cavity; 15. Second gap; 20. Inner layer yarn feeder; 21. Inner layer yarn feeding channel; 22. Flared section; 22a. First air inlet; 22b. First inner annular cavity; 23. Inner cylinder section; 24. First gap; 30. Mandrel; 40. Thermoforming molds; 41. Thermal mold body; 411, Outer mold; 411a, Heating chamber; 411b, Third air inlet; 411c, Second water outlet; 412, Hot mold core; 412a, Air outlet; 413, Flange extension; 413a, Groove; 413b, Water inlet hole; 42. Filter rod mold; 421. Mold base; 421a. Diverter groove; 422. Forming shaft; 423. Reinforcing shaft; 50. Mounting bracket; 60. Cold forming molds; 61. Cold mold body; 61a. Cooling cavity; 61b. Fourth air inlet; 62. Cold mold core; 62a. Air inlet; 63. Cold mold sleeve; 70. Guide rail; 80. Slider; 90. Base. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly set on the other component; when a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to the other component.

[0031] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application 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 limitations on this application.

[0032] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" or "several" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0033] It should be noted that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings of this specification are only for the purpose of assisting those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed in the specification, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which this application can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportions, or adjustments to the size should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in this application, provided that they do not affect the effects and purposes that this application can produce.

[0034] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, in a first aspect of this application, a Gatling filter rod processing apparatus is provided, including an outer wire feeder 10, an inner wire feeder 20, a mandrel 30, and a thermoforming mold 40. The outer wire feeder 10 forms an outer wire feeding channel 11 for the passage of compressed air and wire bundles, and the inner wire feeder 20 forms an inner wire feeding channel 21 for the passage of compressed air and wire bundles. The inner wire feeder 20 is connected to the outer wire feeder 10 and passes through the outer wire feeding channel 11. The mandrel 30 is connected to the inner wire feeder 20 and passes through the inner wire feeding channel 21.

[0035] The thermoforming mold 40 includes a thermoforming body 41 and a filter rod mold 42. The thermoforming body 41 forms a thermoforming cavity, and the filter rod mold 42 can be inserted into the thermoforming cavity to heat the filter rod mold 42. The filter rod mold 42 includes a mold base 421 and a plurality of forming shafts 422. One end of the mold base 421 is connected to the forming shafts 422, and the other end is connected to the inner layer wire feeder 20. An in-mold wire feeding channel is formed in the mold base 421 and communicates with the inner layer wire feeding channel 21. The plurality of forming shafts 422 are arranged at intervals, and the distal end of the mandrel 30 passes through the in-mold wire feeding channel and the gap between the plurality of forming shafts 422.

[0036] In this embodiment, filament bundles and compressed air are respectively fed into the outer filament feeding channel 11 and the inner filament feeding channel 21. The compressed air, as a power source, guides the mandrel 30 and the inner filament feeder 20, enabling uniform delivery of the filament bundles. The filter rod mold 42 is then placed into the heated mold cavity, where it is heated. The filament bundles are fed into the forming shafts 422 via the inner filament feeding channel 21, the outer filament feeding channel 11, and the in-mold feeding channel of the filter rod mold 42. The filament bundles soften under the action of hot air, rapidly and uniformly filling the cavity and simultaneously uniformly covering multiple forming shafts 422, forming a unified structure. This creates a filter rod with multiple channels, achieving synchronous delivery and differentiated pretreatment of the inner and outer filament bundles, laying the foundation for the subsequent formation of a filter rod structure with a density gradient.

[0037] The aforementioned processing device, by separately controlling the conveying of the inner and outer filament bundles, achieves layered, independent, and synchronous traction of the filament bundles, ensuring the continuity and stability of the filament feeding process while avoiding damage to the mechanical foundation. This processing device has a simple structure, is easy to operate, and its dimensions are easily controlled, resulting in high dimensional consistency of the produced multi-channel filter rods; it significantly reduces production costs and greatly improves processing stability and production efficiency.

[0038] In this embodiment, the mandrel 30 passes through the inner filament feeding channel 21, and the inner filament feeder 20 passes through the outer filament feeding channel 11. The front end of the inner filament feeder 20 is connected to the mold base 421 of the filter rod mold 42. A plurality of forming shafts 422 are connected to the end of the mold base 421. The mandrel 30 can extend into and pass through the gap between the forming shafts 422, that is, the inner filament feeder 20 and the mandrel 30 can guide the filament bundle until it covers the periphery of the forming shaft 422 and fills the entire thermal mold cavity.

[0039] In this embodiment, the coaxial arrangement of the mandrel 30, inner wire feeder 20, outer wire feeder 10, and mold base 421 can be adjusted by the connection relationship between them. The hot mold cavity and the mandrel 30 can be adjusted to be coaxial by the positional relationship between the hot mold body 41 and the filter rod mold 42. As a forming reference part, the outer diameter accuracy of the mandrel 30 directly determines the size of the central hole of the filter rod. The diameter of the mandrel 30 is generally set to 1.5mm to 3mm. Precise alignment of the mandrel 30 with the outer wire feeder 10 and inner wire feeder 20 not only ensures strict alignment of the central hole of the final Gatling filter rod but also ensures uniform wire feeding during production, preventing uneven distribution of the filament bundle around the central hole.

[0040] In some embodiments, a plurality of flow dividers 421a are formed in the mold base 421, and the number of flow dividers 421a is equal to the number of forming shafts 422; the filter rod mold 42 also includes a plurality of reinforcing shafts 423, and reinforcing shafts 423 are respectively arranged between adjacent flow dividers 421a, and the reinforcing shafts 423 are connected to the forming shafts 422.

[0041] Reference Figure 5 In this embodiment, petal-shaped flow channels 421a are formed within the mold base 421. Each flow channel 421a corresponds to a forming shaft 422. The filament bundle can pass through the flow channel 421a into the hot mold cavity and cover the forming shaft 422. A reinforcing shaft 423 is provided between adjacent flow channels 421a, and the reinforcing shaft 423 connects the mold base 421 and the forming shaft 422. The reinforcing shaft 423 improves the overall rigidity and structural stability of the mold under high temperature and high pressure conditions, and can guide the filament bundle, causing it to cover the periphery of the forming shaft 422. Multiple forming shafts 422 form multiple channels in the filter rod. Furthermore, the multiple forming shafts 422 are evenly spaced, which enables multiple channels to be evenly spaced on the filter rod.

[0042] In some embodiments, the inner layer yarn feeder 20 has a first air inlet 22a, which communicates with the inner layer yarn feeding channel 21. (Refer to...) Figure 3The first air inlet 22a is located on the outer wall of the inner layer yarn feeder 20. The first air inlet 22a is connected to the inner layer yarn feeding channel 21 to deliver compressed air into the inner layer yarn feeding channel 21 as a power source for conveying the inner layer yarn bundle.

[0043] In some embodiments, the inner layer feeder 20 includes a flared section 22 and an inner cylinder section 23. A first air inlet 22a is formed in the flared section 22. The inner cylinder section 23 passes through the outer layer feed channel 11. The flared section 22 and the inner cylinder section 23 are detachably connected, and a first gap 24 is formed at the connection between the two, facing the inner cylinder section 23. A first inner annular cavity 22b is formed in the wall of the flared section 22. The first inner annular cavity 22b communicates with the first air inlet 22a and communicates with the inner layer feed channel 21 through the first gap 24.

[0044] In the embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 4 The flared section 22 is located outside the outer wire feeding channel 11 and is connected to the outer wire feeder 10 by bolts. The mandrel 30 passes through the flared section 22 and the inner cylinder section 23 successively, and its starting end is fixedly connected to the flared section 22 by bolts. The flared section 22 is provided with a first air inlet 22a and a first inner annular cavity 22b, which communicates with the first air inlet 22a; in addition, a first gap 24 is formed at the connection between the flared section 22 and the inner cylinder section 23. Compressed air enters the first inner annular cavity 22b of the flared section 22 through the first air inlet 22a and is delivered from the first inner annular cavity 22b to the inner wire feeding channel 21 through the first gap 24.

[0045] In this embodiment, the air outlet 412a of the first slit 24 faces the inner cylinder section 23, so that the compressed air is in the same direction as the input of the filament bundle, thereby driving the filament bundle to be conveyed. The compressed air is ejected at high speed through the first slit 24, forming a high-speed traction flow in the inner filament feeding channel 21. This airflow adheres closely to the surface of the inner filament bundle and is ejected forward. Due to the viscosity of the air, a strong frictional force is generated, "sticking" to and dragging the inner filament bundle forward, giving it stable and continuous forward momentum. In addition, the airflow surrounding the filament bundle forms a stable air sleeve, which plays a role in straightening and centering the filament bundle, ensuring smooth conveying and avoiding bending, indentation, or slippage of the filament bundle.

[0046] Furthermore, the inner yarn feeder 20 includes a first gasket, which is disposed between the flared section 22 and the inner cylinder section 23 to form a first gap 24 between them. Understandably, by placing the first gasket at the connection between the flared section 22 and the inner cylinder section 23, the thickness of the first gasket can be adjusted to regulate the size of the first gap 24 between the flared section 22 and the inner cylinder section 23, thereby regulating the yarn feeding speed. A smaller first gap 24 results in a smaller compressed air flow and higher pressure, which accelerates yarn feeding; a larger first gap 24 results in a larger compressed air flow and lower pressure, which slows down yarn feeding.

[0047] In other embodiments, the outer wire feeder 10 includes a hollow body section 12, a cylindrical section 13, and a horn section 14. The cylindrical section 13 and the horn section 14 are respectively connected to the two ends of the body section 12 and form an outer wire feeding channel 11. The cylindrical section 13 is located at the end of the body section 12 that is closer to the thermoforming mold 40. The diameter of the horn section 14 away from the body section 12 is larger than the diameter of the cylindrical section 13.

[0048] Reference Figure 4 The two ends of the body section 12 are connected to the cylindrical section 13 and the trumpet section 14, respectively. The body section 12, cylindrical section 13, and trumpet section 14 are all hollow structures and are interconnected to form the outer layer yarn feeding channel 11. The trumpet section 14 faces the inner layer yarn feeder 20, and its diameter is larger away from the body section 12 to facilitate the input of the outer layer yarn bundle. The cylindrical section 13 and the trumpet section 14 are fixedly connected to the body section 12 by bolts.

[0049] In some embodiments, a second air inlet 141 and a second inner ring cavity 142 are formed on the horn section 14. The second inner ring cavity 142 is located in the wall of the horn section 14, and the second air inlet 141 communicates with the second inner ring cavity 142. A second gap 15 is formed between the horn section 14 and the body section 12, facing the cylindrical section 13. The second inner ring cavity 142 communicates with the outer wire feeding channel 11 through the second gap 15.

[0050] In the embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 4 The mandrel 30 and the inner layer wire feeder 20 pass through the trumpet section 14, the body section 12, and the cylindrical section 13 in sequence, and the inner layer wire feeder 20 is fixedly connected to the trumpet section 14. A second air inlet 141 is provided on the trumpet section 14, and a second inner ring cavity 142 is provided on the wall of the trumpet section 14, which communicates with the second air inlet 141; in addition, a second gap 15 is formed at the connection between the trumpet section 14 and the body section 12. Compressed air enters the second inner ring cavity 142 of the trumpet section 14 through the second air inlet 141, and is delivered from the second inner ring cavity 142 through the second gap 15 to the outer layer wire feeding channel 11.

[0051] In this embodiment, the air outlet 412a of the second slit 15 faces the cylindrical section 13, so that the compressed air is in the same direction as the input of the filament bundle, thereby driving the filament bundle to be conveyed. The compressed air is ejected at high speed through the second slit 15, forming a high-speed traction flow in the outer filament feeding channel 11. This airflow adheres closely to the surface of the outer filament bundle and is ejected forward. Due to the viscosity of the air, a strong frictional force is generated, "sticking" to and dragging the outer filament bundle forward, giving it stable and continuous forward momentum. In addition, the airflow surrounding the filament bundle forms a stable air sleeve, which plays a role in straightening and centering the filament bundle, ensuring smooth conveying and avoiding bending, indentation, or slippage of the filament bundle.

[0052] In some embodiments, the outer wire feeder 10 further includes a second gasket, the body section 12 and the horn section 14 are detachably connected, and the second gasket is disposed between the body section 12 and the horn section 14 to form a second gap 15 between them.

[0053] Understandably, a second shim is provided at the connection between the horn section 14 and the body section 12. The thickness of the second shim can be adjusted to regulate the size of the second gap 15 between the horn section 14 and the body section 12, and the size of the second gap 15 can be adjusted to regulate the wire feeding speed. A smaller second gap 15 results in a smaller compressed air flow and a larger pressure, which can accelerate wire feeding; a larger second gap 15 results in a larger compressed air flow and a smaller pressure, which can slow down wire feeding.

[0054] In some embodiments, the Gatling filter rod processing device includes a guide rail 70, a slider 80, and a base 90. The slider 80 is slidably disposed on the guide rail 70, and the base 90 is mounted on the slider 80. The outer layer wire feeder 10 is fixed on the base 90 and moves under the action of the slider 80 so that the outer layer wire feeder 10, the inner layer wire feeder 20, the core rod 30, and the filter rod mold 42 approach or move away from the hot mold body 41, and the filter rod mold 42 enters or leaves the hot film cavity.

[0055] In the embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 1 A position adjustment component can be set, which can drive the slider 80 to move on the guide rail 70, thereby driving the outer layer wire feeder 10, the inner layer wire feeder 20, the core rod 30 and the filter rod mold 42 to move along the direction of the guide rail 70. The above structure is close to the hot mold body 41 and enters the hot mold cavity, which can heat the wire bundle; the above structure is away from the hot mold body 41 and leaves the hot mold cavity, which can stop the filter rod processing.

[0056] In some embodiments, the thermal mold body 41 includes an outer mold 411 and a thermal mold core 412. The outer mold 411 surrounds a heating cavity 411a, and the thermal mold core 412 is disposed in the heating cavity 411a, forming a thermal mold cavity. A third air inlet 411b is formed on the outer mold 411, and the third air inlet 411b communicates with the heating cavity 411a to input hot air. An air outlet 412a is formed on the thermal mold core 412, and the air outlet 412a communicates with the heating cavity 411a.

[0057] In the embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 6A centering ring and a locking nut can be provided at one end of the outer mold 411 and the hot mold core 412. The centering ring can be located between the outer mold 411 and the hot mold core 412, and the locking nut is pressed onto the centering ring, thereby fixing the relative position of the outer mold 411 and the hot mold core 412. The hot mold core 412 is located inside the heating chamber 411a, but there is still a gap between it and the heating chamber 411a, so that the hot air input from the third air inlet 411b can heat the hot mold core 412 within the heating chamber 411a. In addition, an air outlet 412a is provided on the hot mold core 412 and communicates with the heating chamber 411a, so that the hot air can be output from the air outlet 412a and discharged through the hot mold cavity. Through the circulation of hot air within the heating chamber 411a, the filament bundle within the hot mold cavity can be continuously heated.

[0058] In some embodiments, the hot mold body 41 further includes a flange extension 413, which is connected to the outer mold 411; the end of the hot mold core 412 facing the filter rod mold 42 is flared, the through groove of the flange extension 413 is flared and its opening facing the hot mold core 412 is smaller than the opening away from the hot mold core 412, and the opening of the flange extension 413 abuts against the hot mold core 412.

[0059] Reference Figure 6 The flange extension 413 is bolted to the outer mold 411. The end of the flange extension 413 facing the outer mold 411 opens and abuts against the hot mold core 412. The end of the hot mold core 412 facing the filter rod mold 42 is flared to facilitate the entry of the filter rod mold 42. Additionally, an air outlet 412a is located at the flared end of the hot mold core 412, allowing hot air in the heating chamber 411a to escape through the flared opening. The through-slot of the flange extension 413 is also flared, corresponding to the flared opening of the hot mold core 412, and one end of the flared through-slot of the flange extension 413 abuts against the hot mold core 412, extending the opening of the hot mold core 412 and better guiding the hot air out.

[0060] In other embodiments, a groove 413a is formed at one end of the flange extension 413 facing the outer mold 411, and a water inlet 413b and a first water outlet are formed on the periphery of the flange extension 413 corresponding to the groove 413a. The water inlet 413b and the first water outlet are respectively connected to the groove 413a, and the first water outlet is located at the bottom of the flange extension 413 to allow condensate to flow out.

[0061] Reference Figure 6Multiple water inlet holes 413b are provided at the end of the flange extension section 413 facing the outer mold 411, and the water inlet holes 413b are connected to the groove 413a of the flange extension section 413. The hot air in the heating chamber 411a heats the filter rod mold 42 in the hot mold cavity, and the hot air is discharged from the air outlet 412a of the hot mold core 412. Condensate will appear on the outer wall of the flange extension section 413. The condensate can enter the groove 413a through the water inlet holes 413b, and finally flow out of the flange extension section 413 through the first water outlet on the groove 413a, thereby avoiding material damage caused by the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the flange extension section 413.

[0062] Furthermore, a second outlet 411c is formed on the lower sidewall of the outer mold 411, and the second outlet 411c communicates with the heating chamber 411a. (Refer to...) Figure 6 Understandably, the outer peripheral wall of the hot mold core 412 will also produce condensate due to heating. The second outlet 411c is located below the hot mold core 412 and can collect the condensate and discharge it.

[0063] In some embodiments, the Gatling filter rod processing apparatus further includes a mounting base 50 and a plurality of cold forming dies 60, wherein the thermoforming die 40 and the cold forming die 60 are respectively mounted on the mounting base 50, and the thermoforming die 40 and the plurality of cold forming dies 60 are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the mandrel 30.

[0064] Reference Figure 1 After the filament bundle is formed by the thermoforming mold 40, it is conveyed out from the hot mold core 412 at a high temperature and needs to be cooled down. In the axial direction of the core rod 30, multiple cold forming molds 60 are arranged behind the thermoforming mold 40. These molds can cool down the initially shaped Gatling filter rod, further stabilizing its shape, eliminating internal stress, and ensuring the long-term stability of the filter rod's structural characteristics of a tight outer ring and a soft inner ring. This ultimately achieves high-precision forming and consistent quality of the multi-channel filter rod. The cold forming molds 60 are typically arranged in three stages along the filament bundle's travel direction, i.e., three sets of cold forming molds 60. These molds use controlled, progressive cooling modules to finely process the filter rod initially shaped by the thermoforming mold 40.

[0065] In some embodiments, the cold forming mold 60 includes a cold mold body 61 and a cold mold core 62. The cold mold body 61 surrounds a cooling cavity 61a, and the cold mold core 62 is disposed in the cooling cavity 61a. The cold mold core 62 surrounds a cold mold cavity to accommodate the incoming filament bundle. A fourth air inlet 61b is formed on the cold mold body 61, which communicates with the cooling cavity 61a to allow cold air to enter. An air inlet 62a is formed on the cold mold core 62, which communicates with the cooling cavity 61a and the cold mold cavity to cool the filament bundle.

[0066] In the embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 7 The filament bundle initially formed from the thermoforming mold 40 enters the cold mold cavity surrounded by the cold mold core 62. Cold air enters the cooling cavity 61a through the fourth air inlet 61b and then enters the cold mold cavity through the air inlet holes 62a to cool the filament bundle. Multiple air inlets 62a are provided on the cold mold core 62, and the air inlets 62a are evenly spaced. The air inlets 62a introduce cold air from the cooling cavity 61a into the cold mold cavity, acting on the surface of the initially formed filter rod, which can cool the filament bundle inside the cavity 61a more quickly and cold-plasticize the filter rod structure.

[0067] Furthermore, the cold forming mold 60 also includes a cold mold sleeve 63, which wraps around the periphery of the cold mold core 62 and forms a gap between the sleeve and the core to allow cold air to pass through. Understandably, the design of the cold mold sleeve 63 can prevent heat exchange with the outside environment, ensuring the low temperature of the cold mold core 62, thereby ensuring the cooling and shaping of the filter rod.

[0068] In this embodiment of the application, the cold forming mold 60 also includes a centering ring and a locking nut. The centering ring is engaged between the cold mold body 61 and the cold mold core 62, and the locking nut is pressed onto the centering ring.

[0069] A second aspect of this application provides a processing method for the above-mentioned Gatling filter rod processing apparatus, comprising the following steps: adjusting the outer layer wire feeding channel 11, the inner layer wire feeding channel 21, the mandrel 30, and the hot mold cavity to be coaxial, with the mandrel 30 passing through the inner layer wire feeding channel 21 and the in-mold wire feeding channel and extending into the gap formed by the forming shaft 422; moving the outer layer wire feeder 10, the inner layer wire feeder 20, the mandrel 30, and the filter rod mold 42, and sending the filter rod mold 42 into the hot mold cavity; feeding the wire bundle and compressed air into the outer layer wire feeding channel 11 and the inner layer wire feeding channel 21, with the compressed air driving the wire bundle to move towards the filter rod mold 42, and the wire bundle covering the surface of the forming shaft 422 after entering the in-mold wire feeding channel; and feeding hot air into the hot mold cavity, where the wire bundle softens and fills the hot mold cavity after being heated, and is initially shaped into a Gatling filter rod under the action of the mandrel 30 and the forming shaft 422.

[0070] Furthermore, the pre-shaped Gatling filter rod enters the cold forming mold 60 and is cooled to obtain the Gatling filter rod. The aforementioned cold forming mold 60 can cool and lower the temperature of the pre-shaped Gatling filter rod, further stabilizing its shape, eliminating internal stress, and ensuring the long-term stability of the filter rod's structural characteristics of a tight outer ring and a soft inner ring. Ultimately, this achieves high-precision molding of multi-channel filter rods and ensures consistent quality.

[0071] The above processing method utilizes a Gatling filter rod processing device, which significantly optimizes the molding process, reduces production costs, and gives it excellent processing adaptability, stability, and production efficiency. The processed filter rods have a regular structure, smooth surface, and good quality consistency.

[0072] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A Gatling gun filter rod processing device, characterized in that: The device includes an outer wire feeder, an inner wire feeder, a mandrel, and a thermoforming mold. The outer wire feeder forms an outer wire feeding channel for the passage of compressed air and wire bundles. The inner wire feeder forms an inner wire feeding channel for the passage of compressed air and wire bundles. The inner wire feeder is connected to the outer wire feeder and passes through the outer wire feeding channel. The mandrel is connected to the inner wire feeder and passes through the inner wire feeding channel. The thermoforming mold includes a thermoforming body and a filter rod mold. The thermoforming body has a thermoforming cavity, and the filter rod mold can extend into the thermoforming cavity to heat the filter rod mold. The filter rod mold includes a mold base and multiple forming shafts. One end of the mold base is connected to the forming shafts, and the other end is connected to the inner layer wire feeder. An in-mold wire feeding channel is formed in the mold base and communicates with the inner layer wire feeding channel. The multiple forming shafts are arranged at intervals, and the distal end of the mandrel passes through the in-mold wire feeding channel and the gap between the multiple forming shafts.

2. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mold base has multiple flow channels formed therein, and the number of flow channels is equal to the number of forming shafts; the filter rod mold also includes multiple reinforcing shafts, and the reinforcing shafts are respectively arranged between adjacent flow channels, and the reinforcing shafts are connected to the forming shafts.

3. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple forming shafts are evenly spaced.

4. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner layer wire feeder has a first air inlet, which is connected to the inner layer wire feeding channel.

5. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner layer wire feeder includes a flared section and an inner cylinder section, with the first air inlet formed in the flared section; the inner cylinder section passes through the outer layer wire feeding channel, and the flared section and the inner cylinder section are detachably connected, with a first gap forming at the connection between the two towards the inner cylinder section; a first inner annular cavity is formed in the wall of the flared section, the first inner annular cavity is connected to the first air inlet, and is connected to the inner layer wire feeding channel through the first gap.

6. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inner wire feeder includes a first gasket, which is disposed between the flared section and the inner cylinder section to form the first gap between them.

7. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The outer wire feeder includes a hollow body section, a cylindrical section, and a horn section. The cylindrical section and the horn section are respectively connected to both ends of the body section and form the outer wire feeding channel. The cylindrical section is located at the end of the body section closer to the thermoforming mold. The diameter of the horn section away from the body section is larger than the diameter of the cylindrical section.

8. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The horn section has a second air inlet and a second inner ring cavity. The second inner ring cavity is located in the wall of the horn section, and the second air inlet communicates with the second inner ring cavity. A second gap is formed between the horn section and the body section, facing the cylindrical section. The second inner ring cavity communicates with the outer wire feeding channel through the second gap.

9. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer wire feeder also includes a second gasket, the body section and the horn section are detachably connected, and the second gasket is disposed between the body section and the horn section to form the second gap between them.

10. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The Gatling filter rod processing device includes a guide rail, a slider, and a base. The slider is slidably disposed on the guide rail, and the base is mounted on the slider. The outer layer wire feeder is fixed on the base and moves under the action of the slider so that the outer layer wire feeder, the inner layer wire feeder, the core rod, and the filter rod mold approach or move away from the hot mold body, and the filter rod mold enters or leaves the hot film cavity.

11. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The hot mold body includes an outer mold and a hot mold core. The outer mold surrounds a heating cavity, and the hot mold core is disposed in the heating cavity, forming a hot mold cavity. A third air inlet is formed on the outer mold, and the third air inlet is connected to the heating cavity to input hot air. An air outlet is formed on the hot mold core, and the air outlet is connected to the heating cavity.

12. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The hot mold body also includes a flange extension section, which is connected to the outer mold; the end of the hot mold core facing the filter rod mold is flared, the through groove of the flange extension section is flared and its opening facing the hot mold core is smaller than the opening away from the hot mold core, and the opening of the flange extension section abuts against the hot mold core.

13. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, A groove is formed at one end of the flange extension section facing the outer mold. A water inlet and a first water outlet are formed on the periphery of the flange extension section corresponding to the groove. The water inlet and the first water outlet are respectively connected to the groove. The first water outlet is located at the bottom of the flange extension section to allow condensate to flow out.

14. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, A second water outlet is formed on the outer mold, and the second water outlet is connected to the heating chamber.

15. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The Gatling filter rod processing device also includes a mounting base and a plurality of cold forming molds. The thermoforming molds and the cold forming molds are respectively mounted on the mounting base, and the thermoforming molds and the plurality of cold forming molds are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the mandrel.

16. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, The cold forming mold includes a cold mold body and a cold mold core. The cold mold body forms a cooling cavity, and the cold mold core is disposed within the cooling cavity. The cold mold core forms a cold mold cavity to accommodate the incoming filament bundle. A fourth air inlet is formed on the cold mold body, and the fourth air inlet communicates with the cooling cavity to allow cold air to enter. An air inlet hole is formed on the cold mold core, and the air inlet hole communicates with the cooling cavity and the cold mold cavity to cool the filament bundle.

17. The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The cold forming mold also includes a cold mold sleeve, which wraps around the periphery of the cold mold core and forms a gap with the cold mold core to allow cold air to pass through.

18. A method for processing Gatling gun filter rods, characterized in that, The Gatling filter rod processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17 includes the following steps: The outer wire feeding channel, the inner wire feeding channel, the mandrel, and the hot mold cavity are adjusted to be coaxial. The mandrel passes through the inner wire feeding channel and the in-mold wire feeding channel and extends into the gap formed by the forming shaft. Move the outer layer wire feeder, the inner layer wire feeder, the mandrel, and the filter rod mold, and send the filter rod mold into the hot mold cavity; Fiber bundles and compressed air are fed into the outer fiber feeding channel and the inner fiber feeding channel. The compressed air drives the fiber bundles to move toward the filter rod mold. After entering the fiber feeding channel inside the mold, the fiber bundles cover the surface of the forming shaft. Hot air is introduced into the thermal mold cavity, and the filament bundle is heated and softened to fill the thermal mold cavity. Under the action of the mandrel and the forming shaft, the Gatling filter rod is initially shaped.

19. The method for processing Gatling filter rods according to claim 18, characterized in that, The pre-shaped Gatling filter rod enters a cold forming mold and is cooled to obtain the Gatling filter rod.

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