Carton and smoking article association device

Abstract

This utility model provides a carton-to-cigarette-carton association device. Multiple first association mechanisms are correspondingly installed at corresponding stacking entrances, with each first barcode reader reading the QR code of the corresponding carton. Multiple second association mechanisms are correspondingly installed within multiple cigarette stacking machines, with second barcode readers reading the QR code of the corresponding stack. These second barcode readers are communicatively connected to a data exchange. Multiple third association mechanisms are correspondingly installed at the entrances of multiple carton sealing machines, with third barcode readers reading the QR code of the corresponding stack. The data exchange is communicatively connected to both the industrial control computer and the third barcode readers. Multiple fourth association mechanisms are correspondingly installed within multiple carton sealing machines, with fourth barcode readers reading the QR code of the corresponding cigarette carton. These fourth barcode readers are communicatively connected to the industrial control computer. This carton-to-cigarette-carton association device can adapt to the complex and ever-changing production environment of flexible carton sealing equipment, ensuring the effective association of QR code information between the carton and the cigarette carton.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of tobacco packaging technology, and in particular to a device for connecting a carton and a cigarette pack. Background Technology

[0002] In the cigarette packaging and boxing industry, accurate tracking of cigarette production information is crucial. In traditional packaging and boxing production models, "conditional" association primarily relies on stand-alone machine operation. In this model, cartons undergo a series of operations, including stacking and boxing, within a single packaging machine, and the QR code information of the cartons and cigarette packs is also linked within this single machine. This model features a relatively fixed equipment operation process, with each step closely integrated within the same machine, providing direct control over the production process and ensuring a certain degree of production stability and predictability.

[0003] However, with the continuous advancement of cigarette production technology and the increasing diversification of production demands, flexible packing systems have emerged. In a flexible packing system, cartons are first stacked by a cigarette stacker to form a complete stack, which is then conveyed to a designated packing machine via a conveyor line to complete the packing operation. Unlike the stand-alone mode, the stack conveying path of the same cigarette stacker is flexibly adjusted according to real-time production needs, resulting in a fixed machine-to-machine correspondence between the QR code information of the carton and the cigarette pack. In the stand-alone mode, because the machine is fixed, the information association between the carton and the cigarette pack can be set and executed based on the specific production process and logic within that machine. However, in a flexible packing system, the sources of the cartons are diverse, and the conveying paths are varied. The "conditional" association device of the original stand-alone mode is difficult to adapt to the complex and ever-changing production environment and cannot accurately and stably achieve effective association between the QR code information of the carton and the cigarette pack. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a carton and cigarette pack association device that can adapt to the complex and ever-changing production environment of flexible packaging equipment and ensure the effective association of QR code information between the carton and cigarette pack.

[0005] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A carton-to-cigarette-package association device is installed in a flexible packaging box equipment. The flexible packaging box equipment includes multiple carton stackers and multiple packaging box machines. The carton stackers are used to stack multiple cartons into multiple stacks of cigarettes, and the packaging box machines are used to package the multiple stacks of cigarettes into cigarette packages. Each carton stacker is selectively and adjustablely connected to any one of the packaging box machines via a corresponding conveyor line. The carton-to-cigarette-package association device includes:

[0007] Multiple first-association mechanisms are respectively set at the stacking entrances of multiple cigarette stacking machines. Each first-association mechanism includes a first barcode reader facing the corresponding stacking entrance. The first barcode reader is configured to read the QR code of the carton at the corresponding stacking entrance. Each first barcode reader and each cigarette stacking machine are communicatively connected to a controller. The controller is used to control the on / off state of each cigarette stacking machine.

[0008] Multiple second association mechanisms are respectively set inside multiple cigarette stacking machines. Each second association mechanism includes a second barcode reader. The second barcode reader is configured to read and sort the QR codes of the cigarette stacks in the corresponding cigarette stacking machine to form a QR code sequence. Each second barcode reader is communicatively connected to a data exchanger.

[0009] Multiple third-association mechanisms are set at the entrances of multiple carton sealing machines in a one-to-one correspondence. Each of the third-association mechanisms includes a third barcode reader facing the entrance of the corresponding carton sealing machine. The third barcode reader is configured to read the QR code of the tobacco stack at the entrance of the corresponding carton sealing machine. The data exchanger is communicatively connected to the industrial control computer and each of the third barcode readers.

[0010] Multiple fourth association mechanisms are installed one-to-one inside the multiple packing and sealing machines. Each of the fourth association mechanisms includes a fourth barcode reader, which is configured to read the QR code of the cigarette pack inside the corresponding packing and sealing machine. Each of the fourth barcode readers is communicatively connected to the industrial control computer.

[0011] As a further technical solution, each of the first associated mechanisms also includes a first support component and a carton sensor. The first support component is disposed at the corresponding stacking entrance. The first barcode reader and the carton sensor are both adjustablely disposed on the first support component and along the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker. The carton sensor is disposed at the front end of the first barcode reader, and the first barcode reader and the carton sensor are communicatively connected.

[0012] As a further technical solution, each of the second associated mechanisms also includes a second support component. The second support component includes a second connecting base and a second support shaft. The second support shaft is disposed in the corresponding cigarette stacker through the second connecting base. The second code reader is movably disposed on the second support shaft, and the extension direction of the second support shaft is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker.

[0013] As a further technical solution, the second association mechanism includes three second barcode readers, which are spaced apart on the second support shaft.

[0014] As a further technical solution, two second connecting bases are provided, and the two ends of the second support shaft are respectively connected to the two second connecting bases.

[0015] As a further technical solution, each of the third associated mechanisms also includes a third support component and a smoke stack sensor. The third support component is disposed on the rolling conveyor line corresponding to the box-sealing machine and is located at the inlet of the corresponding box-sealing machine. The smoke stack sensor and the third barcode reader are both movably disposed on the third mounting shaft in the third support component, and the smoke stack sensor and the third barcode reader are communicatively connected.

[0016] As a further technical solution, the third mounting shaft extends in the vertical direction, and the lower end of the third mounting shaft extends below the rolling conveyor line. The smoke stack sensor is movably disposed at the lower end of the third mounting shaft, and the third code reader is movably disposed at the upper end of the third mounting shaft.

[0017] As a further technical solution, each of the third association mechanisms includes two third barcode readers, which are arranged on both sides of the rolling conveyor line along the width direction of the corresponding rolling conveyor line.

[0018] As a further technical solution, each of the fourth associated mechanisms also includes a fourth support component and a cigarette case sensor. The fourth support component is disposed in the corresponding box-packing machine. The cigarette case sensor and the fourth code reader are both movably disposed on the fourth support shaft in the fourth support component. The cigarette case sensor and the fourth code reader are communicatively connected and are both located above the rolling conveyor line.

[0019] As a further technical solution, the fourth support shaft extends along the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line, and two of the cigarette component sensors are provided on the fourth support shaft, with the fourth code reader located between the two cigarette component sensors.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the technical advantages of the carton and cigarette pack association device provided by this utility model are as follows:

[0021] Each cigarette stacker is equipped with a first barcode reader connected to the controller at its stacking entrance. This first barcode reader can read the QR code on the corresponding carton at the stacking entrance, and each cigarette stacker is also connected to the controller. Inside each cigarette stacker, a second barcode reader is connected to the data exchange. This second barcode reader can read the QR code on the cigarette stack inside the stacker. At the entrance of each carton packing machine, a third barcode reader is connected to the data exchange and the industrial control computer. This third barcode reader can read the QR code on the cigarette stack at the carton packing machine entrance. Inside each carton packing machine, a fourth barcode reader is connected to the industrial control computer. This fourth barcode reader can read the QR code on the cigarette pack inside the carton packing machine. The process of associating cartons with cigarette cases during the packing operation using flexible packing equipment is as follows: Multiple cartons are conveyed to their respective cigarette stacking machines. A first barcode reader reads the QR codes on the cartons at the stacking entrance of the corresponding cigarette stacking machine. If all the QR codes on the cartons at the current stacking entrance are defect-free, the cartons are conveyed into the corresponding cigarette stacking machine along the conveying direction. If at least one of the QR codes on the cartons at the current stacking entrance is a defective QR code, the first barcode reader transmits a stop signal to the controller. The controller then stops the cigarette stacking machine so that the operator can promptly remove the defective cartons. Afterward, the cigarette stacking machine restarts. Once the multiple defect-free cartons enter the cigarette stacking machine, they are stacked into multiple stacks. A second barcode reader reads and sorts the QR codes on each stack, and sends the read and sorted QR code sequence to the data exchange. After multiple stacks of cigarettes are conveyed out of the current cigarette stacker, they are transported to the boxing machine via the corresponding conveyor line. The third barcode reader reads the QR code of the cigarettes in the stack at the entrance of the corresponding boxing machine and compares it with the QR code sequence in the data exchange to perform a QR code sequence lookup. This is to determine the affiliation between the QR code sequence of the read stack and the corresponding QR code sequence stored in the data exchange, thus determining the stacker to which the current stack of cigarettes belonged before being conveyed to the current boxing machine. At the same time, the data exchange transmits the QR code sequence of the current stack of cigarettes to the industrial control computer. Subsequently, as the tobacco stacks at the entrance of the carton sealing machine are conveyed to the machine, the industrial control computer tracks the conveying path of the current tobacco stack based on the QR code sequence of the current tobacco stack to ensure the correct flow of QR code information on each carton in the current tobacco stack and prevent misalignment of QR code information. After the tobacco stacks are conveyed into the carton sealing machine, the machine divides the tobacco stacks into tobacco packages. The fourth barcode reader reads the QR code on the current tobacco package, and the industrial control computer associates the QR code on the current tobacco package with the QR codes of multiple cartons in the current tobacco package. Then, the successfully associated tobacco packages are conveyed out of the carton sealing machine.Throughout the process, the carton and cigarette pack association device, with the help of a controller, data exchanger, industrial computer, and multiple barcode readers, enables the tracking of the conveying path of the cigarette stacks transported to each packing machine. This allows the carton and cigarette pack association device to be used in the complex and ever-changing production environment of flexible packing equipment. At the same time, when the carton is sealed in the flexible packing equipment, the effective association of the QR codes between the carton and the cigarette pack is ensured. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this utility model will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the content of the embodiments of this utility model and these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram of the first association mechanism in the carton and cigarette pack association device provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a simplified structural diagram of the second association mechanism in the carton and cigarette pack association device provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a simplified structural diagram of the third association mechanism in the cigarette box and cigarette pack association device provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a simplified structural diagram of the fourth association mechanism in the carton and cigarette component association device provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0027] In the picture:

[0028] 10. Rolling conveyor line; 11. Conveyor side plate; 12. Conveyor gantry;

[0029] 100. First linkage mechanism; 110. First barcode reader; 120. First support assembly; 121. First connecting base; 122. First connecting shaft; 123. First connecting block; 124. First mounting shaft; 125. First adjusting block; 126. First support shaft; 130. Bar cartridge sensor;

[0030] 200. Second linkage mechanism; 210. Second barcode reader; 220. Second support assembly; 221. Second connecting base; 222. Second support shaft; 223. Second connecting shaft; 224. Second connecting block; 225. Second mounting shaft; 226. Second adjusting block;

[0031] 300. Third linkage mechanism; 310. Third barcode reader; 320. Third support assembly; 321. Third mounting shaft; 322. Third adjusting shaft; 323. Third adjusting block; 324. Third support shaft; 325. Third support block; 326. Third connecting block; 327. Third connecting shaft; 330. Chimney stack sensor;

[0032] 400, Fourth linkage mechanism; 410, Fourth barcode reader; 420, Fourth support assembly; 421, Fourth support shaft; 422, Fourth mounting block; 423, Fourth mounting shaft; 430, Smoke sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Before explaining any implementation of this application in detail, it should be understood that this application is not limited to its application to the structural details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the above drawings.

[0034] In this application, the terms "comprising," "including," "having," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0035] In this application, the term "and / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "and / or" relationship.

[0036] In this application, the terms "connection," "combination," "coupling," and "installation" can refer to direct connection, combination, coupling, or installation, or indirect connection, combination, coupling, or installation. For example, a direct connection refers to two parts or components being connected together without the need for an intermediary, while an indirect connection refers to two parts or components each being connected to at least one intermediary, with the connection achieved through the intermediary. Furthermore, "connection" and "coupling" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, but can also include electrical connections or couplings.

[0037] In this application, those skilled in the art will understand that relative terms (e.g., “about,” “approximately,” “basically,” etc.) used in conjunction with quantities or conditions are to include the values ​​and have the meaning indicated by the context. For example, such relative terms include at least the degree of error associated with the measurement of a particular value, tolerances associated with the particular value due to manufacturing, assembly, use, etc. Such terms should also be considered as disclosing a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. Relative terms may refer to a certain percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10% or more) of the indicated value. Numerical values ​​not using relative terms should also be disclosed as specific values ​​with tolerances. Furthermore, “basically” when expressing relative angular relationships (e.g., substantially parallel, substantially perpendicular) may refer to a certain degree (e.g., 1 degree, 5 degrees, 10 degrees or more) added to or subtracted from the indicated angle.

[0038] In this application, those skilled in the art will understand that the function performed by a component can be performed by one component, multiple components, one part, or multiple parts. Similarly, the function performed by a part can also be performed by one part, one component, or a combination of multiple parts.

[0039] In this application, the directional terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" are used to describe the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when an element is mentioned as being connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected through an intermediate element. It should also be understood that directional terms such as upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side, and rear side not only represent positive orientation but can also be understood as lateral orientation. For example, "below" can include directly below, lower left, lower right, lower front, and lower rear.

[0040] Combination Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the carton-to-cigarette-package association device provided in this embodiment is installed on a flexible packaging machine. The flexible packaging machine includes multiple carton stackers and multiple packaging machines. The carton stackers are used to stack multiple cartons into multiple cigarette stacks, and the packaging machines are used to package the multiple cigarette stacks into cigarette packages. Each carton stacker is selectively and adjustablely connected to any packaging machine via a corresponding conveyor line. This carton-to-cigarette-package association device can adapt to the complex and ever-changing production environment of the flexible packaging machine, ensuring the effective association of the QR code information between the carton and the cigarette package.

[0041] Specifically, the carton and cigarette pack association device includes multiple first association mechanisms 100, multiple second association mechanisms 200, multiple third association mechanisms 300, and multiple fourth association mechanisms 400. The multiple first association mechanisms 100 are correspondingly located at the stacking entrances of multiple cigarette pack stacking machines. Each first association mechanism 100 includes a first barcode reader 110 facing the corresponding stacking entrance. The first barcode reader 110 is configured to read the QR code on the carton at the corresponding stacking entrance. Each first barcode reader 110 and each cigarette pack stacking machine are communicatively connected to a controller, which controls the on / off state of each cigarette pack stacking machine. The multiple second association mechanisms 200 are correspondingly located inside the multiple cigarette pack stacking machines. Each second association mechanism 200 includes a second barcode reader 210, which is configured to read and sort the QR codes on the cigarette packs within the corresponding cigarette pack stacking machine to form a QR code sequence. Each second barcode reader 210 is communicatively connected to a data exchange. Multiple third-level association mechanisms 300 are correspondingly installed at the entrances of multiple carton sealing machines. Each third-level association mechanism 300 includes a third barcode reader 310 facing the entrance of the corresponding carton sealing machine. The third barcode reader 310 is configured to read the QR code on the cigarette stack at the entrance of the corresponding carton sealing machine. A data exchange is communicatively connected to the industrial control computer and each third barcode reader 310. Multiple fourth-level association mechanisms 400 are correspondingly installed inside the multiple carton sealing machines. Each fourth-level association mechanism 400 includes a fourth barcode reader 410. The fourth barcode reader 410 is configured to read the QR code on the cigarette pack inside the corresponding carton sealing machine. Each fourth barcode reader 410 is communicatively connected to the industrial control computer.

[0042] Each cigarette stacker is equipped with a first barcode reader 110, which is connected to the controller, at the stacking entrance of each cigarette stacker. The first barcode reader 110 can read the QR code of the corresponding cigarette box at the stacking entrance, and each cigarette stacker is connected to the controller. Inside each cigarette stacker, a second barcode reader 210, which is connected to the data exchange, is installed. The second barcode reader 210 can read the QR code of the cigarette stack inside the cigarette stacker. At the entrance of each carton sealing machine, a third barcode reader 310, which is connected to the data exchange and the industrial control computer, is installed. The third barcode reader 310 can read the QR code of the cigarette stack at the entrance of the carton sealing machine. Inside each carton sealing machine, a fourth barcode reader 410, which is connected to the industrial control computer, is installed. The fourth barcode reader 410 can read the QR code of the cigarette pack inside the carton sealing machine. The process of associating cartons with cigarette cases during the packing operation using flexible packaging equipment is as follows: Multiple cartons are conveyed to their respective cigarette stackers. A first barcode reader 110 reads the QR codes of multiple cartons at the stacking entrance of the corresponding cigarette stacker. If all the QR codes at the current stacking entrance are defect-free, the multiple cartons are conveyed into the corresponding cigarette stacker along the conveying direction. If at least one of the QR codes at the current stacking entrance is a defective QR code, the first barcode reader 110 transmits a stop signal to the controller. The controller then stops the cigarette stacker so that the operator can promptly remove the defective carton. Afterward, the cigarette stacker restarts. After multiple defect-free cartons enter the cigarette stacker, they are stacked into multiple cigarette stacks. A second barcode reader 210 reads and sorts the QR codes of each cigarette stack, and sends the read and sorted QR code sequence to the data exchange. After multiple stacks of cigarettes are conveyed out of the current cigarette stacker, they are transported to the boxing machine via the corresponding conveyor line. The third barcode reader 310 reads the QR code of the cigarettes in the stack at the entrance of the corresponding boxing machine and compares it with the QR code sequence in the data exchange to perform a QR code sequence lookup. This is to determine the affiliation between the QR code sequence of the read stack and the corresponding QR code sequence stored in the data exchange, so as to determine the stacker to which the current stack of cigarettes belongs before it is conveyed to the current boxing machine. At the same time, the data exchange transmits the QR code sequence of the current stack of cigarettes to the industrial control computer. Subsequently, as the tobacco stack at the entrance of the carton sealing machine is conveyed to the carton sealing machine, the industrial control computer tracks the conveying path of the current tobacco stack according to the QR code sequence of the current tobacco stack to ensure the correct flow of QR code information on each carton in the current tobacco stack and prevent misalignment of QR code information. After the tobacco stack is conveyed into the carton sealing machine, the carton sealing machine divides the tobacco stack into tobacco packages. The fourth barcode reader 410 reads the QR code on the current tobacco package, and the industrial control computer associates the QR code on the current tobacco package with the QR codes of multiple cartons in the current tobacco package. Then, the successfully associated tobacco packages are conveyed out of the carton sealing machine.Throughout the process, the carton and cigarette pack association device, with the help of a controller, data exchanger, industrial computer, and multiple barcode readers, enables the tracking of the conveying path of the cigarette stacks transported to each packing machine. This allows the carton and cigarette pack association device to be used in the complex and ever-changing production environment of flexible packing equipment. At the same time, when the carton is sealed in the flexible packing equipment, the effective association of the QR codes between the carton and the cigarette pack is ensured.

[0043] The number of the first associated mechanism 100, the second associated mechanism 200, the third associated mechanism 300, and the fourth associated mechanism 400 can be specifically set according to the number of cigarette stacking machines and carton sealing machines, and is not specifically limited in this embodiment. For example, when there are five cigarette stacking machines in the flexible carton sealing equipment, then there are five sets of the first associated mechanism 100 and the second associated mechanism 200 respectively; when there are three carton sealing machines in the flexible carton sealing equipment, then there should be three sets of the third associated mechanism 300 and the fourth associated mechanism 400 respectively. In addition, the cigarette stacking machine and the carton sealing machine are not the focus of this embodiment. Their specific structure and working principle refer to the prior art, and will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0044] Furthermore, each of the first associated mechanisms 100 also includes a first support component 120 and a carton sensor 130. The first support component 120 is disposed at the corresponding stacking entrance. The first barcode reader 110 and the carton sensor 130 are both adjustablely disposed on the first support component 120. Along the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker, the carton sensor 130 is disposed at the front end of the first barcode reader 110, and the first barcode reader 110 and the carton sensor 130 are communicatively connected.

[0045] Taking one set of first-related mechanisms 100 as an example, its structure and principle are explained. Specifically, in conjunction with... Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, the first support assembly 120 includes a first connecting base 121, a first connecting shaft 122, a first connecting block 123, a first mounting shaft 124, a first adjusting block 125, and a first support shaft 126. The first connecting base 121 is fixedly mounted on the cigarette stacker corresponding to the stacking inlet. The first end of the first connecting shaft 122 is fixedly connected to the first connecting base 121, and the second end of the first connecting shaft 122 extends away from the cigarette stacker, with the extension direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker. The first connecting block 123 is provided with a first connecting threaded channel, and the second end of the first connecting shaft 122 is configured as a first connecting stud. The first connecting block 123 is threadedly connected to the first connecting base 121. The second end of the connecting shaft 122; the first end of the first mounting shaft 124 is connected to the first connecting block 123, and the second end extends vertically. The first adjusting block 125 is provided with a first adjusting threaded channel, and the second end of the first mounting shaft 124 is correspondingly provided with a first adjusting stud. The first adjusting block 125 is threadedly connected to the second end of the first mounting shaft 124; the first end of the first support shaft 126 is connected to the first adjusting block 125, and the second end extends along the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker. The axes of the first connecting shaft 122, the first mounting shaft 124, and the first support shaft 126 are perpendicular to each other. The first code reader 110 and the carton sensor 130 can both be adjusted and set on the first support shaft 126. With this configuration, by adjusting the position of the first connecting block 123 relative to the first end of the first connecting shaft 122, or adjusting the position of the first adjusting block 125 relative to the first end of the first mounting shaft 124, or adjusting the position of the first barcode reader 110 and the barcode sensor 130 on the first support shaft 126, the relative positions of the first barcode reader 110 and the barcode sensor 130 with the stacking entrance can be changed, thereby ensuring the convenience of the first barcode reader 110 when reading the QR code on the barcode at the stacking entrance. Along the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker, the carton sensor 130 is located at the front end of the first barcode reader 110. The first barcode reader 110 and the carton sensor 130 are communicatively connected. During the process of multiple cartons being conveyed to the stacking entrance, when the carton sensor 130 senses a carton at the stacking entrance, it transmits a reading signal to the first barcode reader 110. The first barcode reader 110 then starts reading the QR code to ensure that it can start reading the corresponding QR code in a timely manner, thereby ensuring the reading efficiency of the first associated mechanism 100. At the same time, the signal of the QR code read by the first barcode reader 110 is transmitted to the controller. If the controller determines that the signal of the QR code on the current carton is an error signal, the controller controls the first barcode reader 110 to stop, so that the operator can check the cartons at the stacking entrance and remove the cartons with incorrect QR code signals.

[0046] The connection method between the first barcode reader 110 and the barcode sensor 130, which are adjustablely mounted on the first support shaft 126, can be adapted to actual needs by using threaded connection, snap-fit, or connection with threaded connectors. No specific limitation is made in this embodiment.

[0047] Preferably, each of the second associated mechanisms 200 further includes a second support component 220. The second support component 220 includes a second connecting base 221 and a second support shaft 222. The second support shaft 222 is disposed in the corresponding cigarette stacker through the second connecting base 221. The second code reader 210 is movably disposed on the second support shaft 222, and the extension direction of the second support shaft 222 is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker.

[0048] Taking one set of second-related mechanisms 200 as an example, its structure and principle are explained. Specifically, in conjunction with... Figure 2 As shown, the second support assembly 220 includes a second connecting base 221, a second connecting shaft 223, a second connecting block 224, a second mounting shaft 225, a second adjusting block 226, and a second support shaft 222. The second connecting base 221 is positioned above the conveyor line inside the cigarette stacker. The first end of the second connecting shaft 223 is connected to the second connecting base 221, and the second end extends towards the conveyor line. The second connecting block 224 has a second connecting threaded channel, and the second end of the second connecting shaft 223 is configured as a second connecting stud. The second connecting block 224 is threadedly connected to the second end of the second connecting shaft 223. The second mounting shaft 225... The first end of 5 is connected to the second connecting block 224, and the second end extends along the conveying direction of the conveyor line; the second adjusting block 226 is provided with a second adjusting threaded channel, the second end of the second mounting shaft 225 is provided as a second adjusting stud, and the second adjusting block 226 is threadedly connected to the second adjusting stud; the second support shaft 222 is connected to the second adjusting block 226, and the extension direction of the second support shaft 222 is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker, and the second code reader 210 is movably mounted on the second support shaft 222; at the same time, the axis of the second connecting shaft 223, the axis of the second mounting shaft 225, and the axis of the second support shaft 222 are perpendicular to each other.

[0049] With this configuration, by adjusting the position of the second connecting block 224 relative to the first end of the second connecting shaft 223, or adjusting the position of the second adjusting block 226 relative to the first end of the second mounting shaft 225, or adjusting the position of the second barcode reader 210 on the second support shaft 222, the relative position of the second barcode reader 210 and the conveyor line can be adaptively changed according to the specifications of the tobacco stacks on the conveyor line, thereby ensuring the convenience of the second barcode reader 210 in reading the QR codes of the tobacco stacks on the conveyor line.

[0050] When cigarette cartons are stacked into stacks within the cigarette stacker, typically five cartons are stacked together. A second barcode reader 210 can simultaneously read the QR codes on two adjacent cartons within a stack. To ensure reading efficiency while minimizing equipment costs, in this embodiment, the second association mechanism 200 includes three second barcode readers 210, spaced apart on the second support shaft 222. When the three second barcode readers 210 read the QR codes of the five cartons in the stack, two of them simultaneously read the QR codes of two cartons, while the third reads the QR codes of the remaining cartons. To further ensure reading efficiency and effectiveness, the three second barcode readers 210 are evenly spaced on the second support shaft 222. After reading the QR codes on the cartons in the stack, the three second barcode readers 210 generate a QR code sequence and transmit it to the data exchange for subsequent QR code sequence lookup.

[0051] In other embodiments, the number of second barcode readers 210 on the second support shaft 222 can be increased or decreased according to actual needs. For example, the number of second barcode readers 210 spaced apart on the second support shaft 222 can be two, four, etc., and is not limited to three in this embodiment.

[0052] The connection method of the second barcode reader 210 movably set on the second support shaft 222 can be adapted to actual needs by using threaded connection, snap-fit, or connection with the help of threaded connectors. No specific limitation is made in this embodiment.

[0053] Furthermore, in order to improve the connection stability and connection strength of the three second barcode readers 210 after they are installed in the cigarette stacker, in this embodiment, two second connecting bases 221 are provided, and correspondingly, two second connecting shafts 223, two second connecting blocks 224, two second mounting shafts 225, and two second adjusting blocks 226 are provided. The two ends of the second support shaft 222 can be adjusted and connected to the two second connecting bases 221 through the corresponding second adjusting blocks 226, second mounting shafts 225, second connecting blocks 224, and second connecting shafts 223.

[0054] Furthermore, each of the third associated mechanisms 300 also includes a third support component 320 and a stack sensor 330. The third support component 320 is disposed on the rolling conveyor line 10 of the corresponding box-packing machine and is located at the entrance of the corresponding box-packing machine. The stack sensor 330 and the third barcode reader 310 are both movably disposed on the third mounting shaft 321 in the third support component 320, and the stack sensor 330 and the third barcode reader 310 are communicatively connected.

[0055] Taking one set of third-related mechanisms 300 as an example, its structure and principle are explained. Specifically, in conjunction with... Figure 3As shown, conveyor side plates 11 are provided on both sides of the rolling conveyor line 10 along the conveying direction. The third support assembly 320 includes a third mounting shaft 321, a third connecting block 326, a third connecting shaft 327, a third adjusting block 323, and a third adjusting shaft 322. The third mounting shaft 321 is disposed on one of the conveyor side plates 11 and extends vertically; the third connecting block 326 is provided with a third connecting threaded channel, the upper end of the third mounting shaft 321 is provided with a third mounting stud, the third connecting block 326 is threadedly connected to the upper end of the third mounting shaft 321, the first end of the third connecting shaft 327 is connected to the third connecting block 326, the second end extends towards the rolling conveyor line 10, and the axis of the third connecting shaft 327 is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line 10; the third adjusting block 323 is provided with a third adjusting threaded channel, and the second end of the third connecting shaft 327 is provided with a third adjusting threaded channel. The stud and the third adjusting block 323 are threadedly connected to the second end of the third connecting shaft 327 through the third adjusting thread channel; the first end of the third adjusting shaft 322 is disposed on the third adjusting block 323, and the second end extends along the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line 10, and the axes of the third mounting shaft 321, the third connecting shaft 327 and the third adjusting shaft 322 are perpendicular to each other; the third code reader 310 is movably disposed on the third adjusting shaft 322, so that the third code reader 310 is movably connected to the third mounting shaft 321 by means of the third adjusting shaft 322, the third adjusting block 323, the third connecting shaft 327 and the third connecting block 326.

[0056] With this configuration, by adjusting the position of the third connecting block 326 relative to the first end of the third mounting shaft 321, or adjusting the position of the third adjusting block 323 relative to the first end of the third connecting shaft 327, or adjusting the position of the third barcode reader 310 on the third adjusting shaft 322, the relative position of the third barcode reader 310 and the rolling conveyor line 10 can be adaptively changed, thereby ensuring the convenience and timeliness of reading the QR codes of the tobacco stacks on the conveyor line. The tobacco stack sensor 330 is installed on the third support component 320. When the tobacco stack sensor 330 detects a tobacco stack at the packaging entrance, it transmits a signal to the third barcode reader 310. The third barcode reader 310 starts reading the QR code of the carton in the tobacco stack and transmits the read QR code to the data exchanger. It then compares and verifies the QR code sequence with the QR code sequence in the data exchanger to perform a QR code sequence lookup. This determines the relationship between the read tobacco stack's QR code sequence and the corresponding QR code sequence stored in the data exchanger, thus identifying the tobacco stacker to which the current tobacco stack belongs before being transported to the current carton packing machine. At the same time, the data exchanger transmits the QR code sequence of the current tobacco stack to the industrial control computer.

[0057] Preferably, the third mounting shaft 321 extends in the vertical direction, and the lower end of the third mounting shaft 321 extends below the rolling conveyor line 10. The smoke stack sensor 330 is movably disposed at the lower end of the third mounting shaft 321, and the third code reader 310 is movably disposed at the upper end of the third mounting shaft 321.

[0058] Combination Figure 3 As shown, the third support assembly 320 also includes a third support block 325 and a third support shaft 324. The third support block 325 is provided with a support threaded channel. The lower end of the third mounting shaft 321 is provided as a support stud. The third support block 325 is threadedly connected to the lower end of the third mounting shaft 321. The first end of the third support shaft 324 is provided on the third support block 325, and the second end extends towards the rolling conveyor line 10. The axis of the third support shaft 324 is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line 10. The smoke stack sensor 330 is movably mounted on the third support shaft 324 so that the smoke stack sensor 330 is movably mounted on the third mounting shaft 321 by means of the third support shaft 324 and the third support block 325. Since the conveyor line inside the box-packing machine is set as a rolling conveyor line 10, placing the tobacco stack sensor 330 below the rolling conveyor line 10 can not only ensure the sensing effect of the tobacco stacks on the rolling conveyor line 10, but also make reasonable use of the space below the rolling conveyor line 10 and avoid interference with the structure above the rolling conveyor line 10.

[0059] The connection between the third barcode reader 310, which is movably mounted on the third adjustment shaft 322, and the third support shaft 324, which is mounted on the smoke stack sensor 330, can be adapted to actual needs by using threaded connection, snap-fit, or connection with threaded connectors. No specific limitation is made in this embodiment.

[0060] Because the conveying relationship between the cigarette stacker and the boxing machine in the flexible boxing equipment is not one-to-one, cigarette stacks from multiple stackers can be sequentially conveyed to the same boxing machine. However, due to the different relative positions of the stackers and the boxing machine, when the cigarette stacks are conveyed to the entrance of the boxing machine, the QR codes on the boxes may face one side of the rolling conveyor line 10 or the other side. To improve the reading efficiency, in this embodiment, each third association mechanism 300 includes two third barcode readers 310, which are arranged on both sides of the corresponding rolling conveyor line 10 along its width. The connection method of the two third barcode readers on the conveyor side plate 11 is the same and will not be described further here. The two third barcode readers 310 can share the same cigarette stack sensor 330, or two cigarette stack sensors 330 can be arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the two third barcode readers 310.

[0061] Taking one of the fourth related mechanisms, 400, as an example, its structure and principle will be explained. Specifically, in conjunction with... Figure 4 As shown, each of the fourth associated mechanisms 400 also includes a fourth support assembly 420 and a cigarette pack sensor 430. The fourth support assembly 420 is disposed in the corresponding packing machine. The cigarette pack sensor 430 and the fourth barcode reader 410 are both movably disposed on the fourth support shaft 421 in the fourth support assembly 420. The cigarette pack sensor 430 and the fourth barcode reader 410 are communicatively connected and are both located above the rolling conveyor line 10.

[0062] In this embodiment, a conveying gantry 12 is provided on the rolling conveyor line 10; the fourth support assembly 420 includes a fourth support shaft 421, a fourth mounting block 422, and a fourth mounting shaft 423; the fourth support shaft 421 is disposed on the conveying gantry 12 and located above the rolling conveyor line 10, the fourth support shaft 421 extends along the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line 10, the fourth mounting block 422 is disposed in the middle of the fourth support shaft 421, the fourth mounting block 422 is provided with a fourth mounting threaded channel, the first end of the fourth mounting shaft 423 is provided as a fourth mounting stud, the fourth mounting block 422 is threadedly connected to the first end of the fourth mounting shaft 423 through the fourth mounting threaded channel, the extension direction of the fourth mounting shaft 423 is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line 10; the fourth barcode reader 410 is movably disposed on the fourth support shaft 421 through the fourth mounting shaft 423, and the cigarette component sensor 430 is disposed on the fourth support shaft 421. With the help of the fourth mounting block 422 shaft and the fourth mounting block 422, the relative position of the fourth barcode reader 410 and the rolling conveyor line 10 can be adjusted, thereby facilitating the reading of QR codes on cigarettes of different specifications. Specifically, during the process of transporting the tobacco stacks at the entrance of the carton sealing machine to the carton sealing machine, the industrial control computer tracks the transport path of the current tobacco stack according to the QR code sequence of the current tobacco stack to ensure the correct flow of QR code information on each carton in the current tobacco stack and prevent misalignment of QR code information. After the tobacco stacks are transported into the carton sealing machine, the carton sealing machine sorts the tobacco stacks into tobacco packages. When the tobacco package sensor 430 detects a tobacco package on the rolling conveyor line 10, it transmits a reading signal to the fourth barcode reader 410. The fourth barcode reader 410 reads the QR code on the current tobacco package. The industrial control computer associates the QR code on the current tobacco package with the QR codes of multiple cartons in the current tobacco package. Then, the successfully associated tobacco packages are transported to the outside of the carton sealing machine and then to the downstream link for the next process. The tobacco packages that fail to associate are transported to the recycling point, where manual re-association of cartons and tobacco packages is performed. If the industrial control computer tracks the conveying path of the current cigarette stack based on the QR code sequence of the current cigarette stack, and the QR code information on each carton in the current cigarette stack is incorrect, the current cigarette stack should be promptly removed from the carton sealing machine to prevent cigarette stacks with incorrect tracking signals from flowing to downstream processes. This ensures the accuracy of the association between the carton QR code and the cigarette case QR code, effectively guaranteeing the production quality of cigarette products.

[0063] The fourth barcode reader 410 is movably mounted on the fourth mounting shaft 423, and the smoke sensor 430 is mounted on the fourth support shaft 421. The connection method can be adapted to actual needs by using threaded connection, snap-fit, or connection with the help of threaded connectors. No specific limitation is made in this embodiment.

[0064] To further improve the accuracy of the association between carton and cigarette packaging, combined with Figure 4 As shown, the fourth support shaft 421 extends along the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line 10. Two cigarette pack sensors 430 are installed on the fourth support shaft 421, and a fourth code reader 410 is located between the two cigarette pack sensors 430. Only when both cigarette pack sensors 430 simultaneously detect the same cigarette pack will the fourth code reader 410 start reading the QR code on the cigarette pack and associate the carton with the cigarette pack, so as to avoid the situation where the QR code of the previous cigarette pack is associated with the QR code of the next stack of cigarettes on the rolling conveyor line 10.

[0065] In addition, in this embodiment, two industrial control computers are provided, which serve as the host and backup for each other. When one industrial control computer fails, it automatically switches to the other for control, ensuring the stable and smooth operation of the carton and cigarette packaging association device.

[0066] In addition, the specific structure and working principle of the industrial control computer and data processor are not the focus of this embodiment. For details, please refer to the existing technology, which will not be elaborated here.

[0067] Obviously, the above embodiments of this utility model are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present utility model, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art can make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the protection scope of this utility model. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A carton and cigarette pack association device, disposed in a flexible packing and sealing equipment, the flexible packing and sealing equipment comprising multiple carton stackers and multiple packing and sealing machines, wherein the carton stackers are used to stack multiple cartons into multiple cigarette stacks, and the packing and sealing machines are used to pack the multiple cigarette stacks into cigarette packs, each of the carton stackers being adjustablely and selectively connected to any one of the packing and sealing machines via a corresponding conveyor line, characterized in that... The device for linking the carton and the cigarette pack includes: Multiple first association mechanisms (100) are respectively arranged at the stacking entrances of multiple cigarette stacking machines. Each first association mechanism (100) includes a first barcode reader (110) facing the corresponding stacking entrance. The first barcode reader (110) is configured to read the QR code of the carton at the corresponding stacking entrance. Each first barcode reader (110) and each cigarette stacking machine are communicatively connected to the controller. Multiple second association mechanisms (200) are respectively arranged inside multiple cigarette stacking machines. Each second association mechanism (200) includes a second barcode reader (210). The second barcode reader (210) is configured to read and sort the QR codes of the cigarette stacks in the corresponding cigarette stacking machine to form a QR code sequence. Each second barcode reader (210) is communicatively connected to a data exchanger. Multiple third-association mechanisms (300) are respectively set at the entrances of multiple carton sealing machines. Each of the third-association mechanisms (300) includes a third barcode reader (310) facing the entrance of the corresponding carton sealing machine. The third barcode reader (310) is configured to read the QR code of the tobacco stack at the entrance of the corresponding carton sealing machine. The data exchanger is communicatively connected to the industrial control computer and each of the third barcode readers (310). Multiple fourth association mechanisms (400) are respectively arranged inside the multiple packing machines. Each of the fourth association mechanisms (400) includes a fourth barcode reader (410). The fourth barcode reader (410) is configured to read the QR code of the cigarette pack inside the packing machine. Each of the fourth barcode readers (410) is communicatively connected to the industrial control computer.

2. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the first associated mechanisms (100) also includes a first support component (120) and a carton sensor (130). The first support component (120) is disposed at the corresponding stacking entrance. The first barcode reader (110) and the carton sensor (130) are both adjustablely disposed on the first support component (120) along the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker. The carton sensor (130) is disposed at the front end of the first barcode reader (110). The first barcode reader (110) and the carton sensor (130) are communicatively connected.

3. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the second associated mechanisms (200) also includes a second support component (220). The second support component (220) includes a second connecting base (221) and a second support shaft (222). The second support shaft (222) is disposed in the corresponding cigarette stacker through the second connecting base (221). The second code reader (210) is movably disposed on the second support shaft (222), and the extension direction of the second support shaft (222) is perpendicular to the conveying direction of the cigarette stacker.

4. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second association mechanism (200) includes three second barcode readers (210), which are spaced apart on the second support shaft (222).

5. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 3, characterized in that, There are two second connecting bases (221), and the two ends of the second support shaft (222) are respectively connected to the two second connecting bases (221).

6. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the third associated mechanisms (300) further includes a third support component (320) and a stack sensor (330). The third support component (320) is disposed on the rolling conveyor line (10) corresponding to the box-sealing machine and located at the inlet of the box-sealing machine. The stack sensor (330) and the third barcode reader (310) are both movably disposed on the third mounting shaft (321) in the third support component (320), and the stack sensor (330) and the third barcode reader (310) are communicatively connected.

7. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The third mounting shaft (321) extends in the vertical direction, and the lower end of the third mounting shaft (321) extends to the bottom of the rolling conveyor line (10). The smoke stack sensor (330) is movably disposed at the lower end of the third mounting shaft (321), and the third barcode reader (310) is movably disposed at the upper end of the third mounting shaft (321).

8. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 7, characterized in that, Each of the third association mechanisms (300) includes two third barcode readers (310), which are arranged on both sides of the rolling conveyor line (10) along the width direction corresponding to the rolling conveyor line (10).

9. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 6, characterized in that, Each of the fourth associated mechanisms (400) further includes a fourth support component (420) and a cigarette case sensor (430). The fourth support component (420) is disposed in the corresponding box-packing machine. The cigarette case sensor (430) and the fourth barcode reader (410) are both movably disposed on the fourth support shaft (421) in the fourth support component (420). The cigarette case sensor (430) and the fourth barcode reader (410) are communicatively connected and are both located above the rolling conveyor line (10).

10. The carton and cigarette pack association device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fourth support shaft (421) extends along the conveying direction of the rolling conveyor line (10), and two cigarette component sensors (430) are provided on the fourth support shaft (421), with the fourth code reader (410) located between the two cigarette component sensors (430).

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