Multi-channel steering device and cigarette production line

Abstract

This utility model belongs to the technical field of conveying devices, and discloses a multi-channel steering device and a cigarette production line. The device includes a support frame, a connecting arm, a rotation drive mechanism, at least two steering mechanisms, and a steering transmission mechanism. The connecting arm is rotatably arranged around the support frame. The rotation drive mechanism can drive the connecting arm to rotate at a preset speed. The steering mechanisms can pick up, rotate, and release cigarette packs under the action of the steering transmission mechanism. This device ensures that the cigarette packs and the conveyor belt have the same direction and a small speed difference when picking up and releasing cigarette packs, thereby reducing the impact damage to the cigarette packs during handling and placement, avoiding damage to the cigarette packs and the phenomenon of cigarettes shrinking or becoming empty. It also reduces the probability of cigarette packs shifting and clogging due to secondary impacts, thus ensuring the normal operation of the second conveyor belt and its upstream and downstream devices, guaranteeing the production and packaging efficiency of the cigarette packs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of conveying device technology, and in particular to a multi-channel turning device and a cigarette production line. Background Technology

[0002] In the current cigarette manufacturing and packaging process, after the cigarettes are packaged in small boxes, they need to pass through a turning conveyor device to change the vertical arrangement of the small cigarette packs (hereinafter referred to as "cigarette packs") from end to end to horizontal arrangement, so as to facilitate subsequent carton packaging.

[0003] The basic principle of this conversion process is to use the short side of the workstation contour to brake and decelerate the cigarette packs, while the long side separates and presses the cigarette packs out of the cigarette pack flow during rotation. However, the greater the difference between the linear velocity of the short side and the longitudinal cigarette pack conveying speed, the greater the deceleration, and the greater the impact damage to the longitudinal cigarette packs, resulting in more severe damage to the cigarette packs and more severe cigarette pack shrinkage and hollow ends. Conversely, if the conveying speed difference decreases, the braking and deceleration are smaller, and the cigarette packs are more likely to undergo secondary impacts on the guide bars of the second conveyor belt, easily damaging the cigarette packs, causing them to shift and block the channel, thus affecting the operating efficiency of the equipment.

[0004] Based on the above, there is an urgent need for a multi-channel steering device and a cigarette production line to solve at least one of the aforementioned technical problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a multi-channel turning device and a cigarette production line that can convert cigarette packs from longitudinal to transverse arrangement, and reduce damage to cigarette packs and the phenomenon of cigarettes shrinking or becoming empty.

[0006] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] A multi-channel steering device is used to transfer tobacco bales between a first conveyor belt and a second conveyor belt, both of which are used to synchronously transport at least two tobacco bales. The multi-channel steering device includes:

[0008] The bracket is fixedly installed;

[0009] A linkage arm is rotatably arranged around the bracket, and the rotation path of the linkage arm defines a circular trajectory. The conveying directions of the first conveyor belt and the second conveyor belt are both parallel to the tangent of the circular trajectory.

[0010] A rotation drive mechanism is connected to the connecting arm and can drive the connecting arm to rotate around the bracket at a preset speed;

[0011] At least two steering mechanisms are provided on each of the connecting arms, and the steering mechanisms are configured to acquire the cigarette packs one-to-one when the connecting arm rotates past the first conveyor belt, and release the cigarette packs when the connecting arm rotates past the second conveyor belt;

[0012] A steering transmission mechanism is provided, which is connected to the steering mechanism. When the connecting arm rotates between the first conveyor belt and the second conveyor belt, the steering transmission mechanism drives the steering mechanism connected to the same connecting arm to rotate the cigarette pack synchronously, so as to change the arrangement of the cigarette pack.

[0013] Preferably, the steering mechanism includes a suction member for sucking up the cigarette pack.

[0014] The multi-channel steering device further includes a gas distribution mechanism, which is provided with a negative pressure channel and a negative pressure interruption channel. The gas distribution mechanism is configured such that when the connecting arm rotates to a first angle range, the suction member and the negative pressure channel are connected to draw in and move the cigarette pack, and when the connecting arm rotates to a second angle range, the suction member and the negative pressure interruption channel are connected to interrupt the negative pressure in the suction member through the negative pressure interruption channel.

[0015] Preferably, the gas distribution mechanism is further provided with a positive pressure channel, and when the connecting rod arm rotates to the third angle range, the suction member and the positive pressure channel are connected to each other to perform air blowing cleaning on the suction member.

[0016] Preferably, the gas distribution mechanism includes a gas distribution seat, which is fixedly connected to the bracket and disposed between the bracket and the connecting rod arm. The outer peripheral surface of the gas distribution seat is provided with a negative pressure channel, a negative pressure interruption channel, and a positive pressure channel.

[0017] A first channel is formed inside the linkage arm, and the first channel is connected to the suction member. The first channel is configured such that when the linkage arm rotates around the bracket, the first channel is connected to the negative pressure channel, the negative pressure interruption channel and the positive pressure channel in sequence.

[0018] Preferably, the multi-channel steering device includes a rotating mounting mechanism, which comprises a rim body rotatably connected to the bracket, and at least two connecting rod arms are connected to the outer circumferential surface of the rim body.

[0019] The rim body is rotatably sleeved on the valve seat, and the inner circumferential surface of the rim body and the outer circumferential surface of the valve seat are sealed and abutted together. The rim body has at least two connecting holes, and the connecting holes are connected to the first channel in a one-to-one correspondence, so as to connect the first channel with one of the negative pressure channel, the negative pressure interruption channel and the positive pressure channel through the connecting holes.

[0020] Preferably, the steering transmission mechanism is drive-connected between the rotation drive mechanism and the steering mechanism, so that the steering mechanism and the linkage arm can rotate synchronously.

[0021] Preferably, the steering transmission mechanism includes a cam and a connecting assembly. The cam is fitted onto the bracket and fixedly connected to the top of the valve seat. The connecting assembly rotates synchronously with the connecting rod arm, and one end of the connecting assembly near the bracket abuts against the outer contour of the cam.

[0022] The steering transmission mechanism is configured such that, when the connecting assembly rotates with the link arm, the connecting assembly moves radially relative to the link arm along the circular trajectory and drives the steering mechanism to rotate.

[0023] Preferably, the connecting assembly includes a roller and a rack, the steering transmission mechanism further includes an elastic element, a second channel is provided inside the connecting arm, the rack is slidably disposed within the second channel, the steering mechanism includes a rotating shaft, the outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft is provided with transmission teeth, and the rack is drively connected to the rotating shaft through the transmission teeth.

[0024] The roller is mounted on one end of the rack near the support, and the elastic element is drivenly connected to the roller and applies an elastic force toward the cam to the roller.

[0025] Preferably, the circumferential outer contour of the cam includes a push profile segment FG and a return profile segment HK. The connecting component can rotate with the connecting arm and sequentially abut against the push profile segment FG and the return profile segment HK. The connecting component is configured such that when the connecting component rotates from abutting against the push profile segment FG to abutting against the return profile segment HK, the distance between the connecting component and the support gradually increases, and when the connecting component rotates from abutting against the return profile segment HK to abutting against the push profile segment FG, the distance between the connecting component and the support gradually decreases.

[0026] The cigarette production line includes a first conveyor belt, a second conveyor belt, and the aforementioned multi-channel turning device. The first conveyor belt is located upstream of the multi-channel turning device, and the second conveyor belt is located downstream of the multi-channel turning device.

[0027] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: Through this multi-channel steering device and cigarette production line, when picking up cigarette packs, the cigarette packs and the first conveyor belt can be aligned in the same direction with a small speed difference. Similarly, when releasing cigarette packs, the cigarette packs and the second conveyor belt can be aligned in the same direction with a small speed difference. This reduces impact damage to the cigarette packs during handling and placement, preventing pack damage and cigarette tip shrinkage or empty ends. It also reduces the likelihood of packs shifting and becoming blocked due to secondary impacts, thus ensuring the normal operation of the second conveyor belt and its upstream and downstream devices, guaranteeing the production and packaging efficiency of the cigarette packs. Furthermore, during the handling and release of cigarette packs, the packs can be rotated, changing their arrangement to meet different conveying needs and packaging requirements. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a steering device in the prior art;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a top view of the multi-channel steering device provided by this utility model;

[0030] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 First cross-sectional view of the multi-channel steering device in the AA direction;

[0031] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 Second cross-sectional view of the multi-channel steering device in the BB direction;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the operation of the steering transmission mechanism in a multi-channel steering system.

[0033] In the picture:

[0034] 101. First conveyor belt; 102. Longitudinal smoke pack; 103. Separating wheel; 104. Short side; 105. Long side; 106. Guide bar; 107. Conveyor section; 108. Transverse smoke pack; 109. Second conveyor belt;

[0035] 201. Vertical clamp; 202. Suction component; 203. Linkage arm; 204. Wheel spoke; 205. Wheel hub; 206. Cam; 207. Roller; 208. Rack; 209. Rotating shaft; 210. Rim body; 211. Positive pressure through hole; 212. Gas distribution seat; 213. Bracket; 214. Rotating shaft; 215. Bevel gear; 216. Base; 217. Negative pressure pipe; 218. Gas distribution groove; 219. Connecting hole; 220. First channel; 280. Air through hole. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, not the entire structure.

[0037] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0038] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0039] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," and "left," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, 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 utility model. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for distinction in description and have no special meaning.

[0040] like Figure 1As shown, taking the existing FOCKEFX2 packaging unit's movable separating roller device as an example, this device is connected between the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109. It includes a separating roller 103 with six stations, each station having an "L"-shaped outline and perpendicular long sides 105 and short sides 104. The separating roller 103 is driven by gears and rockers, forming a combined clockwise rotation and up-and-down jumping motion, with the rotation direction of the separating roller 103 consistent with the movement direction of the longitudinal cigarette pack 102. When the longitudinal cigarette pack 102 enters the station, it maintains a horizontal position consistent with the first conveyor belt 101. After the longitudinal cigarette pack 102 has fully entered the station, the separating roller 103 moves downwards, pressing the longitudinal cigarette pack 102 out and onto the conveyor section 107 of the second conveyor belt 109.

[0041] The basic principle of this process is to use the short side 104 of the workstation contour to brake and decelerate the cigarette packs, while the long side 105 separates and presses the cigarette packs out of the cigarette pack flow during rotation. However, the greater the difference between the linear velocity of the short side 104 and the conveying speed of the longitudinal cigarette packs 102, the greater the deceleration, the greater the impact damage to the longitudinal cigarette packs 102, and the more severe the damage to the cigarette packs and the more severe the cigarette pack damage, cigarette tip shrinkage, and hollow ends. If the difference in conveying speed is reduced, the braking and deceleration amplitude is small, and the cigarette packs are prone to secondary impact on the guide bars 106 of the second conveyor belt 109. Furthermore, due to the uneven force on both ends of the cigarette packs during the separation process, the cigarette packs fall unstably, easily getting pinched, blocking the channel, and affecting the operating efficiency of the equipment.

[0042] The following is based on the appendix Figure 2 To be continued Figure 5 This invention introduces the multi-channel steering device and cigarette production line provided by this utility model.

[0043] like Figure 2As shown, the multi-channel steering device is fixedly installed near the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109, capable of transferring cigarette packs from the first conveyor belt 101 to the second conveyor belt 109, and changing the arrangement of the cigarette packs as needed. Exemplarily, in this embodiment, the first conveyor belt 101 is provided with two cigarette pack conveying channels, each capable of conveying one cigarette pack along the length direction of the cigarette pack, i.e., two longitudinal cigarette packs 102 are simultaneously conveyed on the first conveyor belt 101. Similarly, the second conveyor belt 109 is provided with two cigarette pack conveying channels, each capable of conveying one cigarette pack along the width direction of the cigarette pack, thus two transverse cigarette packs 108 are simultaneously conveyed on the second conveyor belt 109. The first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109 are arranged perpendicularly to each other. Therefore, the multi-channel turning device needs to simultaneously pick up two longitudinally arranged cigarette packs from the first conveyor belt 101, rotate the cigarette packs 90 degrees to change them to a transverse arrangement, and then simultaneously place the two cigarette packs onto the second conveyor belt 109 for transmission through the conveyor section 107 of the second conveyor belt 109.

[0044] Specifically, in order to achieve the above functions, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the multi-channel steering device includes a bracket 213, a rotation drive mechanism, and connecting arms 203. The bottom end of the bracket 213 is connected to the base 216 for fixed installation. Eight connecting arms 203 are rotatably connected to the bracket 213 and can rotate around it. The rotation path of each connecting arm 203 defines a circular trajectory, and the multi-channel steering device is positioned such that the conveying directions of the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109 are parallel to the tangent of the circular trajectory. The rotation drive mechanism is connected to the connecting arms 203 and drives them to rotate around the bracket 213 at a preset speed. It should be emphasized that the circular trajectory can be any point on the connecting arms 203 forming a path during rotation. It is a conceptual construct used to conveniently describe the positional relationship between the first conveyor belt 101, the second conveyor belt 109, and the multi-channel steering device, and is not a physical structure. Therefore, the diameter of the circular trajectory is not specifically limited in this invention.

[0045] Therefore, when the multi-channel steering device picks up cigarette packs from the first conveyor belt 101 and releases cigarette packs onto the second conveyor belt 109, the cigarette packs can maintain the same direction of movement as the corresponding first conveyor belt 101 or second conveyor belt 109. Furthermore, through the control of the preset speed by the rotation drive mechanism, and the control of the transmission speed of the first and second conveyor belts 101 and 109, the movement speed of the cigarette packs can have a small speed difference with the corresponding first or second conveyor belt 101 or second conveyor belt 109, or even achieve synchronous movement with zero speed difference. This reduces the impact damage to the cigarette packs during picking and placing, avoids damage to the cigarette packs and the phenomenon of cigarettes shrinking or becoming empty, and also reduces the probability of the cigarette packs shifting and becoming blocked due to secondary impacts. This ensures the normal operation of the second conveyor belt 109 and its upstream and downstream devices, guaranteeing the production and packaging efficiency of the cigarette packs.

[0046] Continue to refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the multi-channel steering device also includes a steering mechanism and a steering transmission mechanism. Each linkage arm 203 is equipped with two steering mechanisms, each capable of picking up and releasing a corresponding cigarette pack. This allows the linkage arm 203 to simultaneously pick up two cigarette packs being transported synchronously when rotating past the first conveyor belt 101, and to simultaneously release the two picked-up cigarette packs onto the second conveyor belt 109 when rotating past the second conveyor belt 109.

[0047] The steering mechanism is rotatably connected to the connecting arm 203 and can rotate the tobacco packs around their own axis, thereby changing the arrangement of the tobacco packs. The steering transmission mechanism is drively connected to the steering mechanism and can drive two steering mechanisms connected to the same connecting arm 203 to synchronously rotate the corresponding tobacco packs. For example... Figure 2 As shown, after the steering mechanism picks up the cigarette pack, the connecting arm 203 rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise around the bracket 213, thereby moving the cigarette pack from the first conveyor belt 101 to the second conveyor belt 109. During the rotation of the connecting arm 203, the steering mechanism rotates the cigarette pack 90 degrees clockwise around its own axis, so that when the cigarette pack is placed on the second conveyor belt 109, it is synchronously conveyed in a lateral arrangement.

[0048] It should be noted that this invention does not limit whether the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109 are perpendicular. Exemplarily, in some embodiments, the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109 can also be arranged in other directions, for example, with an included angle of 120 degrees or 180 degrees between them. Furthermore, this invention does not limit the number of cigarette pack conveying channels on the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109, as long as the number of cigarette pack conveying channels on the first conveyor belt 101, the number of cigarette pack conveying channels on the second conveyor belt 109, and the number of steering mechanisms on each linkage arm 203 correspond one-to-one, allowing each cigarette pack to be picked up and released accordingly. Simultaneously, this invention does not limit the number of linkage arms 203, as long as they can meet the requirements for cigarette pack production efficiency and packaging efficiency under the drive of the rotation drive mechanism.

[0049] This multi-channel steering device ensures that the cigarette packs and the first conveyor belt 101 are aligned in the same direction and have a small speed difference when picking them up, and also ensures that the cigarette packs and the second conveyor belt 109 are aligned in the same direction and have a small speed difference when releasing them. This reduces impact damage to the cigarette packs during picking and placing, preventing damage to the packs and the occurrence of cigarettes shrinking or becoming empty. It also reduces the probability of the cigarette packs shifting and becoming blocked due to secondary impacts, thus ensuring the normal operation of the second conveyor belt 109 and its upstream and downstream devices, guaranteeing the production and packaging efficiency of the cigarette packs. Furthermore, the cigarette packs can be rotated during picking and releasing, thereby changing their arrangement to meet different conveying needs and packaging requirements.

[0050] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the rotation drive mechanism includes a rotating shaft 214 and a bevel gear 215. The support 213 has a hollow cavity, and the rotating shaft 214 passes through the hollow cavity along the axial direction of the support 213. The lower end of the rotating shaft 214 is fixedly connected to the bevel gear 215, which can be connected to a power mechanism such as a motor to transmit torque to the rotating shaft 214. The rotating shaft 214 is fixedly connected to the hub 205 via a key and nut. The hub 205 is fixedly connected to the spoke plate 204. The spoke plate 204 transmits the power torque to the connecting rod arm 203 through the rim body 210, driving the connecting rod arm 203 to rotate around the axial direction of the support 213, thereby realizing the movement of the tobacco pack.

[0051] Continue to refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3As shown, the multi-channel steering device includes a rotating mounting mechanism, which can be used to rotatably mount the connecting rod arm 203 and the bracket 213, and also to drive the connecting rod arm 203 and the rotating shaft 214. Specifically, the rotating mounting mechanism includes a hub 205, a spoke plate 204, and a rim body 210. The hub 205 is connected to the spoke plate 204 by screws and pins. The spoke plate 204 and the top of the bracket 213 are connected by a rotating bearing, and the spoke plate 204 and the rim body 210 are fixedly connected. The rim body 210 is a hollow sleeve, the bracket 213 passes through the rim body 210, and the connecting rod arm 203 is fixedly connected to the outer circumferential surface of the rim body 210. Torque can be transmitted to the rim body 210 through the rotating shaft 214, hub 205, and spoke plate 204, driving the rim body 210 to rotate around the axis of the bracket 213, thereby causing the connecting rod arm 203 to rotate around the bracket 213.

[0052] Preferably, in this embodiment, the steering mechanism includes a suction member 202, which is a suction cup or a component with suction holes. The suction member 202 allows for the picking and moving of the cigarette pack in a suction manner, effectively avoiding damage to the cigarette pack caused by clamping or other handling methods. Optionally, the first conveyor belt 101 also includes a lifting mechanism capable of lifting the cigarette pack to contact the suction cup, thereby achieving the suction action.

[0053] Specifically, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the steering mechanism includes a rotating shaft 209, which is mounted on the connecting rod arm 203 via a rotating bearing and is drively connected to the steering transmission mechanism. The aforementioned suction member 202 is mounted at the lower end of the rotating shaft 209, and the suction member 202 is connected to a negative pressure supply device. The negative pressure supply device supplies negative pressure to the suction member 202, thereby suctioning and releasing the cigarette pack. During continuous suction of the cigarette pack, the steering transmission mechanism drives the rotating shaft 209 to rotate, thereby causing the suction member 202 and the cigarette pack to rotate, thus changing the arrangement of the cigarette pack. For example, when the suction cup suctions the cigarette pack, and the axial directions of the suction cup, the rotating shaft 209, and the cigarette pack's own axial direction are coaxial, the rotation of the rotating shaft 209 and the suction cup can drive the cigarette pack to rotate around its own axis, thereby changing the arrangement of the cigarette pack. Optionally, the first conveyor belt 101 is provided with a vertical clamping belt 201, which can clamp and decelerate the longitudinal cigarette pack 102 and ensure the positional accuracy of the cigarette pack. This ensures that the axial direction of the suction cup is coaxial with the axial direction of the cigarette pack itself during suction, thereby improving the stability of the cigarette pack during rotation.

[0054] Preferably, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the rotating shaft 209 is hollow and can communicate with the suction cup. The connecting arm 203 is provided with a first channel 220, and the suction cup can communicate with the first channel 220 through the rotating shaft 209. Simultaneously, the multi-channel steering device also includes a gas distribution mechanism, which is connected to the first channel 220. This gas distribution mechanism can selectively supply negative pressure and interrupt negative pressure into the first channel 220 according to the rotation angle of the connecting arm 203, thereby coordinating the rotation of the connecting arm 203 and the suction of the steering mechanism.

[0055] Specifically, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, the gas distribution mechanism includes a gas distribution seat 212, which is disposed between the rim body 210 and the bracket 213. The inner circumferential surface of the rim body 210 and the outer circumferential surface of the gas distribution seat 212 are sealed and abut against each other, and the rim body 210 has eight connecting holes 219, which are connected to the first channel 220 one by one. The gas distribution seat 212 is provided with a gas distribution groove 218 and an air passage 280. The gas distribution groove 218 serves as a negative pressure channel and can be connected to the negative pressure supply device. The air passage 280 serves as a negative pressure interruption channel and can be connected to the indoor environment. As the connecting arm 203 rotates, the first channel 220 can be connected to the negative pressure channel and the negative pressure interruption channel through the connecting holes 219, thereby realizing the absorption, movement and release of the cigarette pack. Optionally, a negative pressure chamber is formed between the gas distribution seat 212 and the bracket 213, and the gas distribution seat 212 is connected to a negative pressure pipe 217. The negative pressure pipe 217 is connected to the gas distribution groove 218 through the negative pressure chamber and can form a continuous negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber to improve the absorption effect.

[0056] For example, when the linkage arm 203 rotates to the first angle range (refer to the area between C and D in the diagram), the suction member 202 and the negative pressure channel are connected to suction and move the cigarette pack. When the linkage arm 203 rotates to the second angle range (refer to point D in the diagram), the suction member 202 and the negative pressure interruption channel are connected to interrupt the negative pressure in the suction member 202, thereby releasing the cigarette pack. It should be noted that the first and second angle ranges mentioned above are set according to the angle between the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109. Therefore, the specific values ​​or ranges of the first and second angle ranges are not limited in this invention, as long as the transfer of the cigarette pack between the first conveyor belt 101 and the second conveyor belt 109 can be achieved.

[0057] Optionally, the air distribution seat 212 is also provided with a positive pressure through hole 211, which serves as a positive pressure channel and is connected to the positive pressure supply device. When the connecting arm 203 rotates to the third angle range (refer to point E in the figure), the suction member 202 and the positive pressure channel are connected to each other to blow air to clean the suction member 202, the rotating shaft 209, the first channel 220, etc., thereby preventing the suction member 202, the rotating shaft 209, the first channel 220, etc. from becoming blocked, affecting the suction effect and the stability of the suction, so that the connecting arm 203 can rotate and move the tobacco pack at a higher speed.

[0058] It should be noted that on the outer circumferential surface of the air distribution seat 212, there are contact surfaces between the air distribution groove 218 and the air passage 280, between the air passage 280 and the positive pressure passage 211, and between the positive pressure passage 211 and the air distribution groove 218. These contact surfaces can abut against the sealing connection hole 219 to prevent the first channel 220 from simultaneously connecting with any two of the air distribution groove 218, the air passage 280, and the positive pressure passage 211, thus ensuring the normal operation of the suction and release actions. In other words, when the connecting arm 203 rotates around the bracket 213, the first channel 220 sequentially connects with the negative pressure channel, the negative pressure interruption channel, and the positive pressure channel, sequentially realizing the suction action, the release action, and the air blowing cleaning. As the connecting arm 203 rotates, the suction action, the release action, and the air blowing cleaning are further repeated sequentially.

[0059] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the steering transmission mechanism is connected between the rotation drive mechanism and the rotation shaft 209 so that the rotation shaft 209, the suction cup and the connecting rod arm 203 can rotate synchronously. This not only facilitates the control of the steering mechanism, but also helps to improve the packaging efficiency of the cigarette pack.

[0060] Specifically, in this embodiment, the steering transmission mechanism includes a cam 206 and a connecting assembly. The cam 206 is mounted on a bracket 213 and fixedly connected to the top of the valve seat 212. The connecting assembly is movably connected to the connecting rod arm 203 and can rotate synchronously around the bracket 213 along with the connecting rod arm 203. One end of the connecting assembly near the bracket 213 abuts against the outer contour of the cam 206. When the connecting assembly rotates with the connecting rod arm 203, it moves radially relative to the connecting rod arm 203 along a circular trajectory, driving the steering mechanism to rotate.

[0061] More specifically, the connecting assembly includes a roller 207 and a rack 208, and the steering transmission mechanism also includes an elastic element. A second channel is provided within the connecting arm 203, and the rack 208 is slidably disposed within the second channel. The outer circumferential surface of the aforementioned rotating shaft 209 is provided with transmission teeth, and the rack 208 is drive-connected to the rotating shaft 209 via the transmission teeth. The roller 207 is mounted on one end of the rack 208 near the bracket 213. The elastic element is a spring and is compressively disposed between the roller 207 and the connecting arm 203. At this time, the elastic element is drive-connected to the roller 207 and can apply an elastic force toward the cam 206 to the roller 207 to form a force closure, so that the roller 207 maintains linear contact with the outer contour of the cam 206.

[0062] The outer contour of cam 206 includes a push profile segment FG and a return profile segment HK. Roller 207 rotates with connecting arm 203 and sequentially abuts against push profile segment FG and return profile segment HK. When the connecting assembly rotates from abutting against push profile segment FG to abutting against return profile segment HK, the distance between rack 208 and bracket 213 gradually increases, thereby driving rotating shaft 209 to rotate and change the arrangement of tobacco packs. When connecting arm 203 continues to rotate, the connecting assembly rotates from abutting against return profile segment HK to abutting against push profile segment FG, and the distance between connecting assembly and bracket 213 gradually decreases, thereby causing rotating shaft 209 to reset and prepare for the next rotation of tobacco packs.

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, preferably, in this embodiment, in the push-stroke profile segment FG of the cam 206, the roller 207 is pushed out by the cam 206, driving the rack 208 to mesh with the rotating shaft 209, realizing the clockwise right-angle rotation of the cigarette pack; in the far-rest profile segment GH of the cam 206, the roller 207, rack 208, and rotating shaft 209 remain stationary; in the return profile segment HK of the cam 206, under the combined action of the cam 206 and the elastic element, the suction cup completes the counterclockwise rotation (i.e., the above-mentioned reset rotation); in the near-rest profile segment KF of the cam 206, the roller 207, rack 208, and rotating shaft 209 remain stationary.

[0064] In other words, in this embodiment, between the aforementioned push profile segment FG and return profile segment HK, a far rest profile segment GH and a near rest profile segment KF are also provided, so that the outer contour of the cam 206 includes the push profile segment FG, the far rest profile segment GH, the return profile segment HK, and the near rest profile segment KF connected in sequence. When the roller 207 abuts against the far rest profile segment GH and the near rest profile segment KF, the distance between the rack 208 and the bracket 213 remains fixed. Simultaneously, the push profile segment FG ensures that the rotation of the tobacco pack conforms to a sinusoidal acceleration motion law, while the return profile segment HK conforms to a fifth-order polynomial motion law. Both of these laws allow the rack 208 to have a relatively smooth acceleration change during movement, thereby reducing vibration and impact, improving the operational stability of the mechanism and the smoothness of the tobacco pack's turning.

[0065] In summary, when this multi-channel steering device is used in this embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, when the connecting arm 203 rotates to 15 degrees, the negative pressure reaches the suction unit 202 through the air distribution groove 218, the through hole of the rim body 210, the first through hole, and the rotating shaft 209, adsorbing the cigarette pack. At this time, the roller 207 and the push profile segment FG abut, and the rack 208 is pushed, causing the rotating shaft 209, the suction cup, and the longitudinal cigarette pack 102 to rotate clockwise. When it rotates to 75 degrees, the roller 207 and the far rest profile segment GH abut, at which point the longitudinal cigarette pack 102 completes a right-angle turn. When it rotates to 90 degrees, the air through hole 280 connects with the through hole of the rim body 210, interrupting the negative pressure. The cigarette pack is released onto the second conveyor belt 109 in the posture of a transverse cigarette pack 108, and is positioned and conveyed to the small box transparent paper packaging machine via the conveyor section 107.

[0066] Compared to conventional methods that separately control the rotation of the steering mechanism and the intake of the cigarette pack via electrical signals, the aforementioned gas distribution mechanism and steering transmission mechanism improve the synchronization of the entire device. This makes the device suitable for high-speed production, with a lower failure rate, and reduces the signal and physical connection requirements to upstream and downstream devices. This allows the device to be used with various packaging units employing dual-path packaging, such as the FOCKE-F8, FOCKE-F5, and FOCKE-FXS. Furthermore, by changing the specifications and dimensions, the device can be used with packaging units for regular cigarettes, medium-length cigarettes, and other sizes, making it highly valuable for widespread application.

[0067] This utility model also provides a cigarette production line, which includes a first conveyor belt 101, a second conveyor belt 109 and the aforementioned multi-channel turning device. The first conveyor belt 101 is located upstream of the multi-channel turning device, and the second conveyor belt 109 is located downstream of the multi-channel turning device.

[0068] In use, the multi-channel steering device picks up at least two cigarette packs being transported synchronously from the first conveyor belt 101, and before the cigarette packs detach from the first conveyor belt 101, it moves the cigarette packs and the first conveyor belt 101 at the same speed along the transport direction of the first conveyor belt 101. Then, it rotates the cigarette packs around their own axis by a preset angle and places them onto the second conveyor belt 109. During placement, when the cigarette packs and the second conveyor belt 109 come into contact, it moves the cigarette packs and the second conveyor belt 109 at the same speed along the transport direction of the second conveyor belt 109.

[0069] In this cigarette production line, the aforementioned multi-channel steering device ensures that the cigarette packs and the first conveyor belt 101 are aligned in the same direction and have a small speed difference when picking up the packs. Similarly, it ensures that the cigarette packs and the second conveyor belt 109 are aligned in the same direction and have a small speed difference when releasing the packs. This reduces impact damage to the packs during handling and placement, preventing pack damage, cigarette tip shrinkage, and empty packs. It also reduces the likelihood of packs shifting and becoming blocked due to secondary impacts, ensuring the normal operation of the second conveyor belt 109 and its upstream and downstream devices, thus guaranteeing production and packaging efficiency. Furthermore, the cigarette packs can be rotated during handling and release to change their arrangement and meet different conveying and packaging requirements.

[0070] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0071] 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 multi-channel steering device for transferring cigarette packs between a first conveyor belt (101) and a second conveyor belt (109), wherein both the first conveyor belt (101) and the second conveyor belt (109) are used to synchronously transport at least two of the cigarette packs, characterized in that, The multi-channel steering device includes: A bracket (213) is fixedly installed; A linkage arm (203) is rotatably arranged around the bracket (213), and the rotation path of the linkage arm (203) defines a circular trajectory. The conveying directions of the first conveyor belt (101) and the second conveyor belt (109) are both parallel to the tangent of the circular trajectory. A rotation drive mechanism is connected to the connecting arm (203) and can drive the connecting arm (203) to rotate around the bracket (213) at a preset speed; At least two steering mechanisms are provided on each of the linkage arms (203), the steering mechanisms being configured to acquire the cigarette packs one-to-one when the linkage arm (203) rotates past the first conveyor belt (101), and release the cigarette packs when the linkage arm (203) rotates past the second conveyor belt (109); A steering transmission mechanism is connected to the steering mechanism. When the connecting arm (203) rotates between the first conveyor belt (101) and the second conveyor belt (109), the steering transmission mechanism can drive the steering mechanism connected to the same connecting arm (203) to rotate the cigarette pack synchronously, so as to change the arrangement of the cigarette pack.

2. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering mechanism includes a suction member (202) for sucking up the tobacco pack. The multi-channel steering device also includes a gas distribution mechanism, which is provided with a negative pressure channel and a negative pressure interruption channel. The gas distribution mechanism is configured such that when the connecting arm (203) rotates to a first angle range, the suction member (202) and the negative pressure channel are connected to absorb and move the cigarette pack, and when the connecting arm (203) rotates to a second angle range, the suction member (202) and the negative pressure interruption channel are connected to interrupt the negative pressure in the suction member (202) through the negative pressure interruption channel.

3. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gas distribution mechanism is also provided with a positive pressure channel, and when the connecting rod arm (203) rotates to the third angle range, the suction member (202) and the positive pressure channel are connected to each other to blow air to clean the suction member (202).

4. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The gas distribution mechanism includes a gas distribution seat (212), which is fixedly connected to the bracket (213) and disposed between the bracket (213) and the connecting arm (203). The outer peripheral surface of the gas distribution seat (212) is provided with a negative pressure channel, a negative pressure interruption channel and a positive pressure channel. A first channel (220) is formed inside the connecting arm (203). The first channel (220) is connected to the suction member (202). The first channel (220) is configured such that when the connecting arm (203) rotates around the bracket (213), the first channel (220) is connected to the negative pressure channel, the negative pressure interruption channel and the positive pressure channel in sequence.

5. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multi-channel steering device includes a rotating mounting mechanism, which includes a rim body (210) rotatably connected to the bracket (213), and at least two connecting rod arms (203) are connected to the outer circumferential surface of the rim body (210). The rim body (210) is rotatably sleeved on the valve seat (212), and the inner circumferential surface of the rim body (210) and the outer circumferential surface of the valve seat (212) are sealed and abutted together. The rim body (210) has at least two connecting holes (219), and the connecting holes (219) and the first channel (220) are connected in a one-to-one correspondence, so that the first channel (220) is connected to one of the negative pressure channel, the negative pressure interruption channel and the positive pressure channel through the connecting holes (219).

6. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The steering transmission mechanism is connected between the rotation drive mechanism and the steering mechanism so that the steering mechanism and the connecting arm (203) can rotate synchronously.

7. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The steering transmission mechanism includes a cam (206) and a connecting assembly. The cam (206) is fitted onto the bracket (213) and fixedly connected to the top of the valve seat. The connecting assembly rotates synchronously with the connecting rod arm (203), and one end of the connecting assembly near the bracket (213) abuts against the outer contour of the cam (206). The steering transmission mechanism is configured such that when the connecting assembly rotates with the link arm (203), the connecting assembly moves radially relative to the link arm (203) along the circular trajectory and drives the steering mechanism to rotate.

8. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The connecting assembly includes a roller (207) and a rack (208). The steering transmission mechanism also includes an elastic element. A second channel is provided inside the connecting arm (203). The rack (208) is slidably disposed in the second channel. The steering mechanism includes a rotating shaft (209). The outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft (209) is provided with transmission teeth. The rack (208) is connected to the rotating shaft (209) through the transmission teeth. The roller (207) is mounted on one end of the rack (208) near the bracket (213), and the elastic element is drivenly connected to the roller (207) and applies an elastic force toward the cam (206) to the roller (207).

9. The multi-channel steering device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The circumferential outer contour of the cam (206) includes a push profile segment and a return profile segment. The connecting component can rotate with the connecting arm (203) and abut against the push profile segment and the return profile segment in sequence. The connecting component is configured such that when the connecting component rotates from abutting against the push profile segment to abutting against the return profile segment, the distance between the connecting component and the bracket (213) gradually increases, and when the connecting component rotates from abutting against the return profile segment to abutting against the push profile segment, the distance between the connecting component and the bracket (213) gradually decreases.

10. A cigarette production line, characterized in that, It includes a first conveyor belt (101), a second conveyor belt (109), and a multi-channel steering device as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the first conveyor belt (101) is disposed upstream of the multi-channel steering device, and the second conveyor belt (109) is disposed downstream of the multi-channel steering device.

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