A production device and production process of a cigarette developing filter rod

Abstract

The application provides a cigarette developing filter rod production device and production process, and relates to the tobacco processing technical field.The device comprises a paper storage box, a conveying roller, a shaping assembly for preliminarily pressing and folding the developing paper, a pressing assembly for secondarily pressing and folding the developing paper, and a forming nozzle comprising a contraction section and a shaping section.The contraction section is used for receiving the secondarily pressed and folded developing paper and the tow, a guiding air flow is input into the contraction section through a jetting air hole, the tow is gradually attached to the periphery of the developing paper, a steady pressure air flow is input into the shaping section through an air inlet, and the tow is wrapped around the developing paper to complete shaping.The beneficial effects of the application are as follows: the flexible shaping mode of gradually reducing the two-stage gap greatly weakens the stress accumulation in the developing paper, significantly inhibits the material rebound phenomenon of the developing paper after shaping from the source, completely solves the problems of developing paper tearing and damage in the existing single strong pressing shaping process and excessive rebound after shaping, and avoids the profile deviation and structure distortion of the developing paper in the subsequent implanted filter rod process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This patent relates to the field of tobacco processing technology, specifically to a production device and process for a cigarette developing filter rod. Background Technology

[0002] Filter rods are the core functional components of cigarette products, primarily used to trap harmful aerosol components in mainstream cigarette smoke and improve the smoking experience. Optimizing the overall performance of filter rods has always been a core research topic in the field of tobacco processing technology. With the cigarette consumer market developing towards personalization and multi-functionality, incorporating functional materials into the filter rod matrix to give it additional functions such as smoke colorimetric tracking and slow-release flavoring has become the mainstream R&D direction for tobacco filter rod product iteration and process innovation.

[0003] Developing paper is a type of functional substrate with specific response characteristics to flue gas. After being molded and shaped to obtain a pre-set structure, it can specifically interact with characteristic components of flue gas and produce a visual color development effect, giving the filter rod a visual recognition function of flue gas status and forming a differentiated smoking experience. However, in the existing continuous molding production process of filter rods, there are several difficult technical challenges in stably embedding the shaped developing paper inside the filter rod fiber bundle matrix.

[0004] Existing technologies, such as the cigarette developing filter rod processing technology described in patent document US2001709A, involve continuously unwinding a roll of developing paper tape, which is then pressed by a corrugated pressure roller with a heating structure to create longitudinal pleats of different specifications, such as wide at the center, narrow on both sides, or arc-shaped, and symmetrically grouped. The pleated paper tape is then laterally compressed into a cylindrical shape by a converging tubular guide, and simultaneously wrapped with an outer cylindrical wrapping tow and fixed with adhesive to form an infinitely long filter rod. It is then laterally cut into standard small segments, and finally directly replaces the tobacco at the cigarette mouthpiece end in the conventional cigarette rolling process, and is embedded in the cigarette paper tube to complete the finished product assembly.

[0005] The filter rod substrate is typically formed by winding cellulose acetate bundles. The internal porous structure formed by the accumulation of these bundles is loose, resulting in low overall support rigidity. During the developing paper feeding and composite implantation processes, defects such as lateral shifting, axial misalignment, and pressure-induced wrinkling and deformation of the developing paper are prone to occur. Simultaneously, the filter rod production line needs to maintain high-speed continuous forming operations. Existing implantation devices struggle to achieve uniform coating and tight adhesion between the developing paper and the cellulose acetate bundles without reducing the production line's operating speed or interrupting continuous production. This easily leads to forming defects such as uneven coating thickness and residual voids around the developing paper. These forming defects directly degrade the filter rod's flue gas interception efficiency and cause disordered and uneven color development areas, significantly reducing the consistency and stability of the filter rod's developing function.

[0006] In addition, the developing paper after composite implantation must retain its pre-designed structure and withstand the mechanical compression and pulling effects of subsequent processing steps such as filter rod cutting, splicing, and rolling. Furthermore, it must not slip, break, or delaminate during the consumer's entire suction process. These requirements impose stringent technical constraints on the positioning accuracy, clamping stability, and structural compatibility between the developing paper and the fiber matrix in the developing paper implantation process. These multiple technical challenges at the process and product performance levels collectively constitute the core technical bottleneck restricting the industrialization and large-scale mass production of functional filter rods with built-in developing paper. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the technical problems in existing processes, such as easy deviation of developing paper during transport, poor shape retention during forming, uneven wrapping of filaments under high-speed production, residual voids, and poor consistency of finished product development, this invention provides a production device and process for cigarette developing filter rods. This process achieves high-precision and stable embedding of W-shaped developing paper and uniform and tight wrapping of filaments, ensuring continuous high-speed mass production of developing filter rods and stable product performance.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention provide a production apparatus and process for cigarette developing filter rods, comprising: A cardboard box, used to store strips of developing paper; Conveyor rollers are used for the directional transport of developing paper stored in the paper storage box; The shaping assembly includes a first shaping pressure roller and a second shaping pressure roller. The roller pressing surfaces of the first shaping pressure roller and the second shaping pressure roller are respectively provided with a first shaping protrusion and a first shaping groove that cooperate with each other. A W-shaped first shaping gap is formed between the first shaping protrusion and the first shaping groove. The first shaping gap is used to receive the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller and to initially fold the developing paper. A forming assembly includes a W-shaped second forming gap arranged along the direction of the developing paper feed from the first forming gap. The width of the second forming gap is smaller than the width of the first forming gap. The second forming gap receives the developing paper output from the first forming gap and performs a secondary forming fold on the developing paper. The forming nozzle includes a trumpet-shaped shrinking section and a cylindrical shaping section. The shrinking section has inclined jet holes on its sidewall, and the shaping section has an air inlet on its sidewall. The shrinking section is used to receive the developing paper and filaments after secondary compression and folding. The jet holes introduce guiding airflow into the shrinking section, causing the filaments to gradually adhere to the outer periphery of the developing paper. The air inlet introduces a stable airflow into the shaping section, causing the filaments to wrap around the developing paper and complete the shaping process.

[0009] Furthermore, the forming nozzle consists of an inner nozzle layer and an outer nozzle layer disposed around the inner nozzle layer. A sandwich cavity is formed between the outer nozzle layer and the inner nozzle layer. The injection orifice penetrates the inner nozzle layer and communicates with the sandwich cavity. The injection orifice is inclined toward the shaping section.

[0010] Furthermore, the air inlet includes an air inlet pipe, which is arranged radially along the shaping section and penetrates the outer wall of the shaping section.

[0011] Furthermore, the forming assembly includes a shaping block and a pressing block. The pressing block is disposed inside the shaping block. The interior of the shaping block and the bottom surface of the pressing block are respectively provided with a second shaping groove and a second shaping protrusion that cooperate with each other. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second shaping groove and the second shaping protrusion is W-shaped. The second shaping protrusion extends into the second shaping groove to form a second shaping gap.

[0012] Furthermore, a receiving groove is provided on the upper part of the shaping block, and the pressing block can be vertically and movable to be received in the receiving groove.

[0013] Furthermore, the axes of the first shaping gap, the second shaping gap, and the forming nozzle are located on the same straight line.

[0014] Furthermore, it also includes a guide tube, which is disposed between the forming assembly and the shrink section to input the developing paper output from the forming assembly into the shrink section.

[0015] Furthermore, the shaping assembly has a first heating element for heating the developing paper, and the pressing assembly has a second heating element for heating the developing paper.

[0016] Furthermore, it also includes a tension roller assembly, which is disposed between the conveyor roller and the setting assembly to orient the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller to the setting assembly.

[0017] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention also provide a manufacturing process for cigarette developing filter rods, using the cigarette developing filter rod manufacturing apparatus as described above, and including the following steps: Step S1: The conveyor rollers transport the developing paper to the setting assembly; Step S2: The shaping component performs initial pressing and folding on the developing paper; Step S3: The pressing assembly presses and tightens the developing paper a second time to counteract the material rebound of the developing paper; Step S4: The filament bundle is synchronously wrapped around the outer periphery of the developing paper and simultaneously fed into the shrink section. A guide airflow is introduced into the shrink section through the injection air hole, so that the filament bundle gradually adheres to the outer periphery of the developing paper. A regulated airflow is introduced into the setting section through the air inlet, so that the filament bundle covers the developing paper and completes the setting.

[0018] This patent has the following beneficial effects: 1. The present invention discloses a production apparatus and process for cigarette developing filter rods. The process employs a two-stage pressing and folding structure consisting of a shaping component and a pressing component. First, the developing paper is pre-formed by the shaping roller group, and then the pressing component is used to fold and shape it to a certain depth. Through a flexible shaping method with gradually narrowing gaps between the two stages, the stress accumulation inside the developing paper is significantly reduced, and the material rebound phenomenon after the developing paper is shaped is significantly suppressed from the source. This completely solves the problems of developing paper tearing and damage and excessive rebound after forming in the existing single-stage high-pressure forming process. It also avoids the development paper contour deviation and structural distortion in the subsequent filter rod implantation process, effectively solves the problems of paper deviation, distortion and deformation during transportation and wrapping, and ensures the integrity of the developing paper shape inside the finished filter rod.

[0019] 2. The present invention provides a production apparatus and process for producing cigarette developing filter rods, wherein the shrinkage section of the forming nozzle is provided with injection air holes, which can input low-temperature guiding airflow into the shrinkage section. On the one hand, the airflow guides the filament bundles to gather evenly towards the outer periphery of the developing paper, and on the other hand, it rapidly cools and hardens the developing paper after high-temperature setting, thereby preventing the developing paper from collapsing and deforming due to the compression of the filament bundles.

[0020] 3. The present invention provides a production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod, wherein an air inlet is arranged circumferentially in the shaping section of the forming nozzle, and a continuous and stable air pressure is applied to the shaping section through the air inlet to form a uniform circumferential pressure on the filament bundle, thereby eliminating gaps and local thin-pack defects between the filament bundle and the developing paper, improving the overall filtration uniformity of the filter rod, and ensuring that the developing paper does not slip or break during the entire suction process, and that the color development effect of the smoke is stable and uniform.

[0021] 4. The present invention provides a production device and process for producing cigarette developing filter rods, wherein a tension roller group is set to keep the developing paper taut throughout the process, and a guide tube is used for radial limiting to constrain the developing paper's conveying trajectory throughout the process, thereby preventing the substrate from deviating or misaligning on the high-speed production line. This is suitable for continuous high-speed forming of filter rods and does not reduce the production line's operating efficiency.

[0022] 5. The present invention provides a production device and process for producing cigarette developing filter rods. The entire process is completed in a continuous and integrated manner without the need for intermediate shutdowns and transfers. It can be directly adapted to the transformation of existing high-speed filter rod production lines, enabling large-scale and stable mass production of developing filter rods and solving the bottleneck of large-scale application of existing technologies. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this patent, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this patent and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a production device and production process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the shaping component and the forming component; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the first shaping gap; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the molding assembly; Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the forming nozzle; Figure 6 This is another perspective view of the forming nozzle; Figure 7 This is a half-sectional view of the forming nozzle.

[0025] In the picture: 1. Cardboard box; 2. Conveyor rollers; 3. Shaping components; 31. First shaping roller; 311. First shaping protrusion; 32. Second shaping roller; 321. First shaping groove; 33. First shaping gap; 34. First heating element; 4. Molding assembly; 41. Shaping block; 411. Second shaping groove; 412. Receiving tank; 42. Pressing blocks; 421. Second shaping protrusion; 43. Second shaping gap; 44. Second heating element; 5. Forming nozzle; 51. Contraction segment; 511. Injection port; 52. Shaping section; 521. Air intake; 53. Outer layer of the nozzle; 54. Inner layer of the nozzle; 55. Interlayer cavity; 6. Tension roller assembly; 7. Guide tube. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The following detailed description of the features and advantages of this application is sufficient to enable any person skilled in the art to understand the technical content of this application and implement it accordingly. Based on the specification, claims and drawings disclosed in this specification, those skilled in the art can easily understand the related objectives and advantages of this application.

[0027] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals denote similar elements. While specific structures and arrangements are discussed, it should be understood that this is done merely for illustrative purposes. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other structures and arrangements can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can also be used in a variety of other applications.

[0028] In this specification and claims, several terms will be used, and unless otherwise indicated, these terms will be defined to have the following meanings: The singular forms “one” and “a” include their corresponding plural forms. “At least one” means one or more, and “more” means two or more. “At least one of the following” or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can be expressed as: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0029] All figures used to represent component amounts, properties (e.g., molecular weight), reaction conditions, etc., should be considered to be modified in all cases by the terms "within the unavoidable margin of error" or "about". Therefore, the numerical values ​​set forth herein are approximate and may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. The principles of equivalents, which are applied to a minimum and not intended to limit the scope of the claims, should be applied, for example, each value should be interpreted at least according to the reported significant digits and by applying conventional rounding techniques.

[0030] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. A and B can be singular or plural. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates an "or" relationship between the preceding and following related objects, but it can also represent an "and / or" relationship. Please refer to the context for a more accurate understanding.

[0031] In the description of this embodiment, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "bottom", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the product is usually placed during use. 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] Unless otherwise indicated, the following abbreviations have the following meanings, and any other abbreviations used herein but not defined have their generally accepted standard meanings: All other terms used herein for special definition are intended to have the general meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, in particular meaning that one of ordinary skill in the art can directly and without doubt determine how the technical solutions of the invention can be implemented after reading the claims, specification and drawings.

[0033] Even if there are incomplete descriptions, omissions, or ambiguities in the grammar, words, punctuation, graphics, symbols, etc. of the claims, specification, and drawings of this invention, those skilled in the art can still arrive at the only correct understanding by reading the claims, specification, and drawings as a whole without extensive reasoning or experimentation, and effectively exclude various incorrect interpretations that are not aimed at achieving the purpose of this invention.

[0034] Those skilled in the art will first choose to read the claims, specification, and drawings of this invention to reasonably interpret the terms; secondly, they will choose to refer to the relevant definitions in other documents published by the applicant before the filing date to reasonably interpret the terms; thirdly, they will choose the references cited in this invention to reasonably interpret the terms; and finally, they will choose to combine the technical dictionaries, technical manuals, reference books, textbooks, national or industry technical standards, etc., commonly used by those skilled in the art to reasonably interpret the terms.

[0035] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following will describe in detail its implementation methods in conjunction with the specific structure and working process of the device of the present invention.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 1 The present invention provides a production apparatus and process for cigarette developing filter rods, which are applied to the forming and tow wrapping of developing paper to realize the processing of cigarette developing filter rods. The production apparatus mainly includes a paper storage box 1, a conveying roller 2, a shaping component 3, a pressing component 4, and a forming nozzle 5.

[0037] The paper storage box 1 is used to store strip-shaped developing paper. The internal space of the paper storage box 1 is adapted to the storage needs of developing paper, ensuring that the developing paper can be output smoothly without tangling or jamming.

[0038] The conveyor roller 2 is used for directional conveying of the developing paper stored in the paper storage box 1. The conveyor roller 2 is specifically set on the output side of the paper storage box 1 to receive the developing paper output from the paper storage box 1 and convey the developing paper to the subsequent process direction.

[0039] To ensure the developing paper remains flat and wrinkle-free during transport, in some embodiments, the production apparatus and process for cigarette developing filter rods of the present invention further includes a tension roller group 6. The tension roller group 6 is disposed between the conveyor roller 2 and the shaping component 3 to directionally transport the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller 2 to the shaping component 3. The tension roller group 6 generally includes multiple tension rollers, which are spaced apart between the conveyor roller 2 and the shaping component 3. The developing paper output from the paper storage box 1 passes over each tension roller in sequence and remains taut. Thus, the tension roller group 6 applies a stable tension force to the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller 2 through the cooperation of the tension rollers, keeping the developing paper under tension at all times, providing a good foundation for subsequent pressing processes.

[0040] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The shaping component 3 includes a first shaping pressure roller 31 and a second shaping pressure roller 32. The roller pressing surfaces of the first shaping pressure roller 31 and the second shaping pressure roller 32 are respectively provided with a first shaping protrusion 311 and a first shaping groove 321 that cooperate with each other. A W-shaped first shaping gap 33 is formed between the first shaping protrusion 311 and the first shaping groove 321. The first shaping gap 33 is used to receive the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller 2 and to initially fold the developing paper.

[0041] Specifically, the axes of the first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32 are parallel to each other, and their outer peripheral roller pressing surfaces are relatively close. The first shaping protrusion 311 is arranged around the outer peripheral roller pressing surface of the first shaping roller 31, and the outer peripheral roller pressing surface of the second shaping roller 32 is provided with a first shaping groove 321 that is adapted to and cooperates with the first shaping protrusion 311. The first shaping groove 321 is arranged around the outer peripheral roller pressing surface of the second shaping roller 32. After assembly, the first shaping protrusion 311 extends into the first shaping groove 321, and the two together form a first shaping gap 33 that allows the developing paper to pass through continuously.

[0042] Understandably, in some embodiments, the first shaping protrusion 311 can also be disposed on the outer peripheral rolling surface of the second shaping pressure roller 32, and the first shaping groove 321 can be disposed on the outer peripheral rolling surface of the first shaping pressure roller 31. The convex-concave mating relationship between the first shaping protrusion 311 and the first shaping groove 321 can be interchanged to adapt to different assembly and processing requirements.

[0043] In actual assembly, the two ends of the roller shafts of the first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32 are respectively mounted and fixed to the equipment frame. The first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32 are driven to rotate in opposite directions by a motor or other drive mechanism to achieve directional, uniform and continuous feeding of the developing paper. This ensures that the first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32 have high coaxiality and smooth rotation during operation, effectively prevents relative misalignment of the rollers, and ensures that the first shaping protrusion 311 can be accurately embedded into the first shaping groove 321, and stably maintains the design size of the first shaping gap 33.

[0044] In some embodiments, the shaping assembly 3 is provided with a first heating element 34 for heating the developing paper. The first heating element 34 can heat the first shaping groove 321 and the first shaping protrusion 311, so that the developing paper is initially shaped by heat while being rolled and shaped by the first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32, forming a regular W-shaped structure.

[0045] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The forming assembly 4 is provided with a W-shaped second forming gap 43 arranged along the direction of the developing paper conveying the first forming gap 33. The width of the second forming gap 43 is smaller than the width of the first forming gap 33. The second forming gap 43 is used to receive the developing paper output from the first forming gap 33 and to perform secondary pressing and folding on the developing paper. The forming assembly 4 is located downstream of the forming roller group and is used to receive the developing paper conveyed by the forming roller group and to perform secondary pressing and folding on the developing paper to further strengthen the W-shaped structure of the developing paper and ensure that the shape after forming is stable and not easily deformed.

[0046] Specifically, the forming assembly 4 is arranged downstream of the first shaping gap 33 along the developing paper conveying direction, and the second shaping gap 43 is located inside the forming assembly 4. For example, the second shaping gap 43 is located on the extension line of the first shaping gap 33, ensuring that the developing paper output from the first shaping gap 33 accurately and smoothly passes through the second shaping gap 43, realizing directional, uniform, and continuous feeding of the developing paper.

[0047] It should be noted that the width of the second shaping gap 43 is smaller than the width of the first shaping gap 33. The developing paper, after being initially shaped by the first shaping gap 33, can be directly fed into the second shaping gap 43. Through secondary pressure tightening in the narrow gap, the accumulated stress inside the developing paper is fully released, and the inherent material rebound characteristics of the developing paper are offset, thus avoiding the problems of media contour deviation and structural distortion in the subsequent filter rod implantation process from the source.

[0048] In some embodiments, the forming assembly 4 includes a forming block 41 and a pressing block 42. The pressing block 42 is disposed inside the forming block 41. The interior of the forming block 41 and the bottom surface of the pressing block 42 are respectively provided with a second forming groove 411 and a second forming protrusion 421 that cooperate with each other. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second forming groove 411 and the second forming protrusion 421 is W-shaped. The second forming protrusion 421 extends into the second forming groove 411 to form a second forming gap 43.

[0049] The upper part of the shaping block 41 is provided with a receiving groove 412, and the pressing block 42 can be vertically and movably accommodated in the receiving groove 412. The shape of the receiving groove 412 is adapted to the external shape of the pressing block 42, and the pressing block 42 is automatically positioned and assembled after being accommodated in the receiving groove 412.

[0050] For example, the receiving groove 412 is a stepped groove, and the bottom of the pressing block 42 is provided with a stepped end face that matches the stepped groove. The stepped end face fits into the receiving groove 412 to realize the assembly of the pressing block 42 and the shaping block 41. The depth of the receiving groove 412 is generally greater than the thickness of the pressing block 42, so that the pressing block 42 can only move in the vertical direction, so that the pressing block 42 can be driven to lift and fold the developing paper by the driving mechanism. In this embodiment, both the receiving groove 412 and the pressing block 42 are convex. The lower left and right sides of the pressing block 42 are provided with stepped end faces, and the lower part of the receiving groove 412 is provided with a corresponding step. The stepped end face of the lower part of the pressing block 42 fits into the step of the receiving groove 412 to realize the positioning and assembly of the shaping block 41 and the pressing block 42.

[0051] The second shaping groove 411 is disposed inside the shaping block 41 and extends along the length direction of the shaping block 41. The longitudinal section of the second shaping groove 411 is W-shaped and is a straight strip groove that runs through the length.

[0052] The second shaping protrusion 421 is disposed at the bottom of the pressure block 42 and extends along the length of the pressure block 42. The longitudinal section of the second shaping protrusion 421 is W-shaped. The second shaping protrusion 421 is generally integrally formed with the pressure block 42. The second shaping protrusion 421 is located at the middle position of the bottom of the pressure block 42 and protrudes downward relative to the bottom surface of the pressure block 42.

[0053] After the pressure block 42 is assembled into the receiving groove 412, the second shaping protrusion 421 extends into the second shaping groove 411 to form a second shaping gap 43. The receiving groove 412 provides lateral positioning for the pressure block 42, ensuring precise alignment between the second shaping protrusion 421 and the second shaping groove 411, preventing lateral displacement of the concave and convex structures, and ensuring consistent shaping dimensions for batch processing of developing paper.

[0054] It is understood that in some embodiments, the second shaping protrusion 421 may be arranged on the shaping block 41, and the second shaping groove 411 may be arranged on the pressure block 42. The convex-concave mating relationship between the second shaping protrusion 421 and the second shaping groove 411 may be interchanged to adapt to different assembly and processing requirements.

[0055] The shape of the receiving groove 412 is adapted to the shape of the pressure block 42 so that the pressure block 42 can be stably assembled within the receiving groove 412. For example, the receiving groove 412 is a rectangular groove, and the pressure block 42 is a rectangular block. The width of the receiving groove 412 is the same as the width of the pressure block 42, and the depth of the receiving groove 412 is greater than the thickness of the pressure block 42. The pressure block 42 is embedded within the receiving groove 412 and can only move vertically. After the pressure block 42 is embedded in the rectangular receiving groove 412, it retains only vertical freedom of movement, while being completely restricted in the lateral and longitudinal directions, thus completely preventing the pressure block 42 from deviating.

[0056] In some embodiments, the forming assembly 4 is provided with a second heating element 44 for heating the developing paper. The second heating element 44 heats the developing paper as it passes through the second forming gap 43 between the forming block 41 and the pressing block 42. In conjunction with the pressing action of the second forming protrusion 421 and the second forming groove 411, the developing paper is formed in a secondary manner, making the W-shaped structure of the developing paper more regular and firm.

[0057] Please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The forming nozzle 5 is a key component for achieving the wrapping of the developing paper with the filament bundle. The forming nozzle 5 includes a trumpet-shaped shrinking section 51 and a cylindrical shaping section 52. The shrinking section 51 has inclined jet air holes 511 on its side wall, and the shaping section 52 has an air inlet 521 on its side wall. The shrinking section 51 is used to receive the developing paper and filament bundle after secondary compression and folding. The jet air holes 511 input guide airflow into the shrinking section 51 to make the filament bundle gradually adhere to the outer periphery of the developing paper. The air inlet 521 inputs a stable airflow into the shaping section 52 to complete the shaping of the filament bundle wrapping the developing paper.

[0058] The shrink section 51 has a larger diameter end facing the forming assembly 4, and a smaller diameter end connecting to the shaping section 52. The shrink section 51 and the shaping section 52 are connected as one to form a continuous channel. Furthermore, the larger diameter end of the shrink section 51 is also used for feeding the filament bundle.

[0059] In some embodiments, the forming nozzle 5 is configured as a hollow double-layer structure, consisting of an inner nozzle layer 54 and an outer nozzle layer 53 disposed around the inner nozzle layer 54. A sandwich cavity 55 is formed between the outer nozzle layer 53 and the inner nozzle layer 54. The injection holes 511 penetrate the inner nozzle layer 54 and communicate with the sandwich cavity 55. The injection holes 511 are inclined toward the shaping section 52. The sandwich cavity 55 is closed at one end near the contraction section 51 and open at the other end near the shaping section 52 for airflow input. The number of injection holes 511 is set to multiple, and each injection hole 511 is circumferentially spaced around the contraction section 51. The injection holes 511 can be arranged in multiple circles around the contraction section 51, with the injection holes 511 evenly arranged on each circle.

[0060] The end of the interlayer cavity 55 near the shaping section 52 is used to connect to the air supply equipment. The air supply equipment can input cold air into the interlayer cavity 55. The air inside the interlayer cavity 55 is ejected from each jet hole 511 and acts on the filament bundle, forming a guide airflow that converges towards the smaller diameter end of the shrinking section 51. The guide airflow can create pressure on the filament bundle, causing the filament bundle to converge smoothly towards the smaller diameter end of the shrinking section 51 and gradually adhere to the outer periphery of the developing paper. In addition to guiding, the guide airflow can also cool the heated developing paper, hardening it and preventing it from deforming when combined with the filament bundle.

[0061] The number of air inlets 521 is set to multiple, and each air inlet 521 is axially spaced around the shaping section 52, preferably evenly spaced. For example, the air inlet 521 includes an air inlet pipe, which is arranged radially along the shaping section 52 and penetrates the outer wall of the shaping section 52, and each air inlet pipe is connected to the inner cavity of the shaping section 52.

[0062] It should be noted that the shrinking section 51 and the shaping section 52 of the forming nozzle 5 form a Venturi tube structure. As can be seen from the working principle of the Venturi tube, the air inlet 521 can deliver a stable airflow into the shaping section 52, further strengthening the tightness between the filament bundle and the developing paper, and ensuring that the filament bundle and the developing paper maintain a stable state within the shaping section 52.

[0063] In some embodiments, the production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod of the present invention further includes a guide tube 7, which is disposed between the forming assembly 4 and the shrink section 51 to input the developing paper output from the forming assembly 4 into the shrink section 51. The guide tube 7 is a cylindrical hollow tube, and the developing paper output from the forming assembly 4 passes through the guide tube 7 into the shrink section 51.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the axes of the first shaping gap 33, the second shaping gap 43, and the forming nozzle 5 are located on the same straight line. This ensures that the developed paper, after being folded, is continuously and reliably conveyed along a straight line, preventing substrate misalignment on high-speed production lines and adapting to continuous high-speed forming conditions of filter rods.

[0065] In actual processing, a cloth belt is also provided on the output side of the shaping section 52 of the forming nozzle 5. The cloth belt is used to receive the developing filter rod that has been wrapped with filaments output from the forming nozzle 5 and smoothly send it to the next process to avoid damage or deformation of the developing filter rod during the transportation process.

[0066] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention also provide a manufacturing process for cigarette developing filter rods, using the cigarette developing filter rod manufacturing apparatus as described above, and including the following steps: Step S1: The conveyor roller 2 transports the developing paper to the setting component 3.

[0067] The conveyor roller 2 pulls out the whole roll of developing paper stored inside the paper storage box 1. The developing paper passes through the tension roller group 6, which applies a constant tension force to keep the developing paper flat and without slack throughout the process, thus eliminating substrate wrinkles.

[0068] Step S2: The shaping component 3 performs preliminary pressing and folding on the developing paper.

[0069] The developing paper is fed to the first shaping gap 33 between the first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32. The first shaping roller 31 and the second shaping roller 32 rotate in opposite directions to roll and press the developing paper. The first shaping protrusion 311 and the first shaping groove 321 initially fold the developing paper to form a basic W-shaped profile. Alternatively, the first heating element 34 inside the shaping assembly 3 can be used to heat and solidify the developing paper when it is folded, completing the initial shaping.

[0070] In step S3, the pressing component 4 presses and tightens the developing paper a second time to counteract the material rebound of the developing paper.

[0071] After initial folding, the developing paper enters the shaping component 3, specifically the second shaping gap 43 between the shaping block 41 and the pressure block 42. The shaping block 41 and pressure block 42 work together to perform a second folding and shaping of the developing paper, further strengthening its W-shaped structure and ensuring a stable shape that is not easily deformed after molding. The secondary pressure tightening through the narrower second shaping gap 43 fully releases the accumulated stress within the developing paper, counteracting its inherent material resilience and preventing issues like media contour misalignment and structural distortion during subsequent filter rod implantation. Furthermore, the second heating element 44 inside the shaping component 3 can be used to heat and solidify the developing paper a second time during folding, enhancing the W-shaped structure's shaping strength and preventing springback deformation after the substrate is demolded.

[0072] Step S4: The filament bundle is synchronously wrapped around the outer periphery of the developing paper and simultaneously fed into the shrink section 51. A guide airflow is introduced into the shrink section 51 through the injection air hole 511, so that the filament bundle gradually adheres to the outer periphery of the developing paper. A regulated airflow is introduced into the setting section 52 through the air inlet 521, so that the filament bundle covers the developing paper and completes the setting.

[0073] The developing paper is fed into the shrink section 51 from the larger diameter end, and the filament bundle is simultaneously fed into the shrink section 51 around the outer periphery of the developing paper by the external filament bundle opening mechanism; the air supply equipment introduces room temperature cold air into the interlayer cavity 55, and the airflow is directed inward through the inclined jet holes to form a wall-attached convergence to form a guide airflow, which pushes the filament bundle to evenly adhere to the outer wall of the developing paper; at the same time, the cold air rapidly cools the high temperature developing paper, increases the hardness of the substrate, and prevents it from being squeezed and collapsed.

[0074] When the filament bundle and the developing paper enter the setting section 52 together, a regulated airflow is introduced through the air inlet 521. The airflow surrounds the filament bundle from all sides, eliminating gaps and uneven thickness defects in the filament bundle coverage, so that the filament bundle is tightly attached to the surface of the developing paper to complete the setting.

[0075] The formed complete developing filter rod is continuously output from the end of the shaping section 52. The bottom cloth belt receives the filter rod and smoothly transports it to the slitting station to complete the subsequent fixed-length slitting and assembly processing.

[0076] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices, apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways.

[0077] For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0078] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0079] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0080] In this specification, references to "an embodiment" or "a specific implementation" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment / specific implementation is included in at least one embodiment / specific implementation of the invention. Therefore, the phrase "in one embodiment / specific implementation" appearing in various places in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / setting, but rather to potentially different embodiments. Furthermore, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more embodiments / settings in any suitable manner, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0081] Similarly, it should be understood that in the above description of exemplary embodiments / specific implementations of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes combined in a single embodiment / specific implementation or its figures and description, with the aim of simplifying the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various aspects of the invention. However, except for expressly stated instructions to the contrary or obvious technical contradictions or exclusions, the method of description in this patent should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed features of the invention are more than those expressly stated in each claim.

[0082] Conversely, the inventive aspect reflected in the claims lies in not all the features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment / specification. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated herein, each claim existing independently as a separate embodiment / specification of the invention.

[0083] Furthermore, while some embodiments / specific implementations described herein include, but are not limited to, other features included in other embodiments / specific implementations, combinations of features from different embodiments / specific implementations are intended to be within the scope of the invention and form different embodiments / specific implementations, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, embodiments / specific implementations of any claim can be used in any combination.

[0084] The terms and expressions used in this specification are for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. In using these terms and expressions, it is not intended to exclude any equivalents of the features or portions thereof shown, but rather to recognize that various modifications may be possible within the scope of the invention.

[0085] Therefore, it should be understood that although the invention has been specifically disclosed through preferred embodiments, exemplary embodiments and optional features, those skilled in the art may take variations or modifications of the concepts disclosed herein, and such variations and modifications are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0086] The specific embodiments given in this specification are examples of useful implementations of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented using many variations of the devices, device components, and method steps disclosed in this specification.

[0087] The foregoing description of specific embodiments fully discloses the general features of the present invention, enabling others to easily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various applications by applying knowledge within the scope of the art, without conducting excessive experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the present invention.

[0088] Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance provided herein, it is intended that such modifications and alterations be included within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the wording or terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes and is not intended to be limiting; thus, the wording or terminology in this specification will be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on the foregoing teachings and guidance.

[0089] Furthermore, the scope of the invention should not be limited to any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but is defined solely by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A production apparatus and process for cigarette developing filter rods, characterized in that, include: A cardboard box, used to store strips of developing paper; Conveyor rollers are used for directional conveying of the developing paper stored in the paper storage box; The shaping assembly includes a first shaping pressure roller and a second shaping pressure roller. The roller pressing surfaces of the first shaping pressure roller and the second shaping pressure roller are respectively provided with a first shaping protrusion and a first shaping groove that cooperate with each other. A W-shaped first shaping gap is formed between the first shaping protrusion and the first shaping groove. The first shaping gap is used to receive the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller and to initially fold the developing paper. The forming assembly has a W-shaped second forming gap arranged along the direction of feeding developing paper in the first forming gap. The width of the second forming gap is smaller than the width of the first forming gap. The second forming gap is used to receive the developing paper output from the first forming gap and to fold the developing paper a second time. as well as The forming nozzle includes a trumpet-shaped shrinking section and a cylindrical shaping section. The shrinking section has inclined jet holes on its sidewall, and the shaping section has an air inlet on its sidewall. The shrinking section is used to receive the developing paper and filaments after secondary compression and folding. The jet holes introduce guiding airflow into the shrinking section, causing the filaments to gradually adhere to the outer periphery of the developing paper. The air inlet introduces a regulated airflow into the shaping section, causing the filaments to wrap around the developing paper and complete the shaping process.

2. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The forming nozzle consists of an inner nozzle layer and an outer nozzle layer disposed around the inner nozzle layer. A sandwich cavity is formed between the outer nozzle layer and the inner nozzle layer. The injection orifice penetrates the inner nozzle layer and communicates with the sandwich cavity. The injection orifice is inclined toward the shaping section.

3. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The air inlet includes an air inlet pipe, which is arranged radially along the shaping section and penetrates the outer wall of the shaping section.

4. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The forming assembly includes a forming block and a pressing block. The pressing block is disposed inside the forming block. The interior of the forming block and the bottom surface of the pressing block are respectively provided with a second forming groove and a second forming protrusion that cooperate with each other. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second forming groove and the second forming protrusion is W-shaped. The second forming protrusion extends into the second forming groove to form the second forming gap.

5. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 4, characterized in that: The upper part of the shaping block is provided with a receiving groove, and the pressing block can be vertically and movable to be received in the receiving groove.

6. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The axes of the first shaping gap, the second shaping gap, and the forming nozzle are located on the same straight line.

7. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a guide tube disposed between the forming assembly and the shrink section to input the developing paper output by the forming assembly into the shrink section.

8. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shaping assembly has a first heating element for heating the developing paper inside, and the pressing assembly has a second heating element for heating the developing paper inside.

9. The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a tension roller assembly disposed between the conveyor roller and the shaping assembly to orient the developing paper conveyed by the conveyor roller to the shaping assembly.

10. A manufacturing process for a cigarette developing filter rod, characterized in that: The production apparatus and process for a cigarette developing filter rod as described in any one of claims 1-9, comprising the following steps: Step S1: The conveyor rollers transport the developing paper to the setting assembly; Step S2: The shaping component performs initial pressing and folding on the developing paper; Step S3: The pressing assembly presses and tightens the developing paper a second time to counteract the material rebound of the developing paper; Step S4: The filament bundle is synchronously wrapped around the outer periphery of the developing paper and simultaneously fed into the shrink section. A guiding airflow is introduced into the shrink section through the jet air hole, so that the filament bundle gradually adheres to the outer periphery of the developing paper. A regulated airflow is introduced into the setting section through the air inlet, so that the filament bundle covers the developing paper and completes the setting.

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