A unit and method for transferring discrete elements, in particular capsules, intended for inclusion in segments of the smoking articles industry

Abstract

A unit for transferring discrete elements (100, 200), in particular capsules, comprising a first hopper (2) and a second hopper (2'), a combination conveyor (7) and respective feeding lines (3, 3') arranged between each hopper (2, 2') and the combination conveyor (7). The feeding lines (3, 3') are configured to perform a change in pitch between successive discrete elements (100, 200) along the respective feeding path, and furthermore, the feeding lines (3, 3') are configured to release respective pairs of discrete elements (100, 200) so as to make, on the combination conveyor (7), a sequence of alternating pairs of first discrete elements (100) and second discrete elements (200).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a unit and method for transferring discrete elements, in particular capsules, intended for inclusion in segments of the smoking articles industry.

[0002] In particular, in the context of flavoring capsules, it is known to make articles for generating aerosols, in which the filter segment is provided with two capsules containing different flavorings. These capsules are arranged at a predetermined mutual distance such as to allow a user to exert a localized pressure on the filter, obtaining the rupture of the desired capsule, thus obtaining a flavoring of the aerosol.

[0003] Machines are known for manufacturing these filter segments in which suitable transfer units release pairs of mutually heterogeneous capsules. A unit of this type is known from EP2408323, in which two downstream lines are provided for collecting and transferring respective pairs of capsules. These pairs of capsules are collected with different pitches so that the pitch between successive pairs is greater than the pitch between the capsules of the pair. Thus, in a successive combining wheel, the pairs of capsules coming from the first downstream line are interposed between consecutive pairs of capsules coming from the second downstream line. The Applicant has observed that the productivity of this solution is limited by the speed of collecting the capsules from the relative hoppers by means of a pickup wheel. In fact, an increase in productivity should necessarily pass from an increase in speed of the pick-up wheels, while the geometry of the latter (and in particular the distribution of the seats thereof) may not be varied due to the need to mutually combine the sequences of pairs coming from the two downstream lines.

[0004] A technical solution is further known from EP2443945 in which the pickup wheels are provided with closely spaced, equidistant seats, thus capable of maximizing the production speed. However, this technical solution is configured to form alternating sequences of single capsules. In other words, calling "A" the type of capsule fed from the first downstream line and "B" the type of capsule fed from the second downstream line, the technical solution is capable of producing A-B-A-B-A-B-type sequences and so on, but not "A-B-B-A-A-B-B-A"-type sequences and so on, suitable for obtaining double-filter segments to be inserted between two tobacco segments in a filter-insertion machine. Each double segment would have two pairs of capsules with an "A-B-A-B" distribution, which is unsuitable for defining, downstream of the cut, two single segments with "A-B" capsules. Conversely, the solution described in EP2408323 is suitable for making "A-B-B-A-A-B-B-A" sequences, but the configuration thereof is such as to limit the production speed, constrained, in particular, to the geometry of the collection seats of the collection wheels, which must be distributed with a reduced level of cover of the periphery of the pickup wheels due to the need to intersperse the pairs of capsules in the combining wheel.

[0005] In light of the stated prior art, there is the need for a unit and method for transferring discrete elements, in particular capsules, which allow the formation of sequences of alternating pairs ("A-B-B-A"), while simultaneously having a high production speed.

[0006] In this context, the Applicant has observed that a solution to this problem is obtainable by creating a pitch change during the descent of the capsules so as to obtain pairs of capsules with the desired spacing (both between the capsules of each pair and between consecutive pairs) and, subsequently, by releasing the pairs of capsules of each downstream line onto a combining conveyor so as to form pairs of the "A-A-B-B-A-A-B-B" type, and so on, which, after insertion into the filtering material, by means of an appropriate cut, may give rise to double segments with "A-B-B-A" capsules. This allows decoupling productivity from the specific distribution of seats on the pickup wheels, which may, nonetheless, preferably be equidistant, with a fixed pitch.

[0007] Therefore, in a first aspect thereof, the invention relates to a unit for transferring discrete elements, in particular capsules, comprising: a first hopper for containing first discrete elements having a first format; a second hopper for containing second discrete elements having a second format different from said first format; a combination conveyor (in particular, a combining wheel or a combining drum or alternatively a linear and / or belt conveyor); a first feeding line arranged between the first hopper and the combination conveyor and configured to collect a sequence of first discrete elements from the first hopper, to transfer the sequence of first discrete elements along a first feeding path and to release the first discrete elements to the combination conveyor; a second feeding line arranged between the second hopper and the combination conveyor and configured to collect a sequence of second discrete elements from the second hopper, to transfer the sequence of second discrete elements along a second feeding path and to release the second discrete elements to the combination conveyor.

[0008] According to the invention, the feeding lines are configured to perform a change in pitch between successive discrete elements along the respective feeding path.

[0009] The feeding lines are preferably configured to perform a change in pitch between discrete elements from a uniform pitch value (collection pitch) to a varying pitch value, in particular alternating (alternating release pitches, having different values).

[0010] The feeding lines are preferably further configured to perform a change in pitch between discrete elements from a uniform pitch value (collection pitch) to an intermediate pitch value, which is also uniform.

[0011] Furthermore, according to the invention, the feeding lines are configured to release respective pairs of discrete elements ("A-A" for the first feeding line and "B-B" for the second feeding line), so as to form, on the combination conveyor, a sequence of alternating pairs of first discrete elements and second discrete elements (sequence of the "A-A-B-B-A-A-B-B" type, and so on).

[0012] Each feeding line preferably comprises a respective collection wheel (or drum) or "pickup element", partially defining a lower surface of the respective hopper and / or partially inserted into the respective hopper. Furthermore, each collection wheel operates with a predetermined collection pitch. This collection pitch is defined by the pitch of peripheral seats arranged in sequence on the collection wheel.

[0013] The collection pitch is preferably fixed.

[0014] More preferably, but not necessarily, the collection pitch is fixed and uniform. The term "uniform" is understood to mean that the receiving seats on the pickup wheel are equidistant with a single pitch value. This allows optimizing the quantity of discrete elements collected and thus the collection speed, without this causing any hindrance to the realization of the desired combination of elements, since the capacity of the feeding lines to change the pitch allows obtaining the desired exit pitch values.

[0015] In an embodiment, the collection pitches of the two collection wheels are identical to each other.

[0016] Each feeding line further comprises a last wheel, or release wheel or drum, configured to release pairs of discrete elements to the combination conveyor. Each release wheel is preferably configured to release a sequence of alternating pairs of discrete elements, with at least one first predetermined release pitch, defined between the two discrete elements of the same pair.

[0017] In particular, each release wheel is configured so as to define this first release pitch itself, by changing the pitch between the two discrete elements of the same pair during the transfer of the discrete elements of the pair onto the release wheel.

[0018] Each release wheel is preferably configured to release a sequence of alternating pairs of discrete elements with a second release pitch defined between consecutive pairs of discrete elements, different from the first release pitch. This second release pitch is preferably greater than the first release pitch.

[0019] The first and / or second release pitches of the last two wheels preferably differ from each other. However, this depends on aspects related to the dimensions and format of the filter segments to be obtained. In fact, the sequence of discrete elements on the combination conveyor preferably remains unchanged until the time of inserting the discrete elements into a continuous flow / rod of filter material, in particular during (or immediately before) wrapping with a continuous wrapping web. It follows that the release pitch values of the last two wheels of each feeding line depend on the distances provided between the different (four) discrete elements in the final sequence to be obtained.

[0020] In particular, the combination conveyor has a sequence of receiving seats arranged in accordance with four pitches, which are mutually consecutive and recurrent, comprising a first exit pitch defined between the first discrete elements of the same pair, a second exit pitch defined between the second discrete elements of the same pair, a third exit pitch defined between each second "rear" discrete element and the first "front" discrete element immediately following, and a fourth exit pitch defined between each first "rear" discrete element and the second "front" discrete element immediately following. In this situation, at least two exit pitches, in particular the first and the second exit pitch and / or the third and the fourth exit pitch, preferably differ from each other. In an embodiment, at least three of these four exit pitches differ from one another, all four exit pitches preferably differing from one another.

[0021] Each feeding line preferably comprises a spacing wheel configured to perform a change in pitch between consecutive discrete elements during movement of the discrete elements on the spacing wheel, obtaining, at the exit, the at least one respective exit pitch.

[0022] The spacing wheel is preferably defined by the aforesaid release wheel, which therefore performs both the functions of spacing and releasing to the combination conveyor.

[0023] The spacing wheel preferably comprises a plurality of movable equipment; each piece of equipment is configured to support a respective discrete element, the equipment being movable at least with a tangential displacement component so as to vary the circumferential distance between consecutive discrete elements during the rotation of the spacing wheel.

[0024] Further, the spacing wheel preferably comprises a plurality of fixed equipment interspersed with the movable equipment, each configured to support a respective discrete element. Thus, only half the discrete elements receive a backward or forward movement.

[0025] Each movable unit is preferably hinged about a tilting axis parallel to the rotation axis of the spacing wheel and positioned to rotate about the tilting axis by means of a movement mechanism.

[0026] In an embodiment, this movement mechanism is a cam mechanism, in particular driven by the rotation of the release wheel with a fixed cam in which eccentric cam followers slide with respect to the tilting axis.

[0027] The spacing wheel preferably receives the discrete elements from a wheel having a fixed, preferably uniform pitch. This wheel having a fixed, preferably uniform pitch may be the respective collection wheel or a further wheel arranged downstream of the collection wheel.

[0028] Each feeding line is preferably configured to increase the pitch value from the collection pitch to an intermediate pitch, which is greater than the collection pitch, where the at least one release pitch is obtained by further changing the intermediate pitch.

[0029] In particular, the increase in pitch from the collection pitch to the intermediate pitch is performed during the transfer of the discrete elements between consecutive wheels of the feeding line, rotating at mutually different speeds, in particular the receiving wheel rotating at a greater tangential speed than the transferring wheel so as to obtain an increase in pitch. This allows minimizing the collection pitch and thus boosting the articles collected, thus increasing line productivity.

[0030] In an embodiment, the second of these consecutive wheels is the spacing wheel, which therefore receives, at the inlet, the respective discrete elements with a uniform pitch value, equal to the intermediate pitch.

[0031] In a different aspect, the object of the invention is a method for transferring discrete elements, in particular capsules, intended for inclusion in segments of the smoking articles industry, preferably performed by means of a unit according to the above.

[0032] In particular, this method comprises the following steps: collecting first discrete elements, in particular having a first format, from a first hopper, forming a first sequence of discrete elements having a first collection pitch; collecting second discrete elements, in particular having a second format different from said first format, from a second hopper, forming a second sequence of discrete elements having a second collection pitch; transferring the sequences of discrete elements along respective feeding paths (downstream lines); mutually combining respective pairs of discrete elements so as to make a sequence of alternating pairs of first discrete elements and second discrete elements.

[0033] According to the invention, the method comprises, for each sequence of discrete elements, a step of changing the pitch between successive discrete elements along the respective feeding path.

[0034] The collection pitches are preferably uniform, more preferably they are identical to one another. Thus, it is possible to minimize the collection pitch, optimizing productivity, while determining a minimum pitch value capable of not hindering the collection of the separate discrete elements from the hopper.

[0035] The step of mutually combining respective pairs of discrete elements is preferably performed by forming a sequence of alternating pairs of first and second discrete elements, forming a continuous sequence of discrete elements arranged according to four mutually alternating exit pitches, of which: a first exit pitch is defined between the first discrete elements of the same pair, a second exit pitch is defined between the second discrete elements of the same pair, a third exit pitch is defined between each second "rear" discrete element and the first "front" discrete element immediately following, and a fourth exit pitch is defined between each first "rear" discrete element and the second "front" discrete element immediately following.

[0036] In this situation, at least two exit pitches, in particular the first and the second exit pitch and / or the third and the fourth exit pitch preferably differ from each other. In an embodiment, at least three of these four exit pitches differ from one another, said four exit pitches preferably differing from one another.

[0037] The step of performing a change in pitch between successive discrete elements is preferably made from respective sequences of discrete elements arranged according to a uniform pitch, obtaining respective sequences of pairs of discrete elements, in which the discrete elements are arranged according to at least one predetermined release pitch.

[0038] Each sequence of pairs of discrete elements preferably comprises discrete elements arranged according to a first and a second release pitch, the first release pitch being defined between discrete elements of the same pair and the second release pitch being defined by the distance between consecutive pairs of discrete elements of the same sequence. In this solution, the two release pitches mutually alternate, with a different value. Subsequently, the two sequences of discrete elements in accordance with the aforesaid at least one release pitch are released and combined to form a single continuous sequence, in particular defined by the aforesaid four exit pitch values. This continuous sequence is fed to further processes, in particular to the formation of a continuous filter rod by inserting the discrete elements into an upper groove of a filter rod, preferably keeping the aforesaid four exit pitch values unchanged.

[0039] The step of performing a change in pitch between successive discrete elements of the same sequence is preferably made by performing an approaching of some discrete elements, in particular an alternating sub-group, toward the other discrete elements of the same sequence, while said other discrete elements are caused to advance at a uniform speed along the respective feeding path. In particular, the odd elements of the sequence are moved at a varying speed toward the even elements of the same sequence (which are caused to advance at a uniform speed), or vice versa. This change in pitch is preferably performed while the discrete elements are moved by a spacing wheel, in particular provided with movable equipment.

[0040] Further, the method preferably comprises a step of increasing the pitch value between the discrete elements of each sequence from the respective collection pitch to an intermediate pitch, which is greater than the collection pitch and preferably uniform. Thus, the cited step of performing a change in pitch between successive discrete elements, thus obtaining respective sequences of pairs of discrete elements is made from respective sequences of discrete elements arranged according to a uniform pitch, which is different from, and greater than the collection pitch. This change in pitch from the collection pitch to the intermediate pitch is preferably made by transferring the respective sequence of discrete elements between consecutive transfer wheels, operating at mutually different tangential speeds.

[0041] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the indicative and therefore non-limiting description of an embodiment of a unit and method for transferring discrete elements, in particular capsules, intended for inclusion in segments of the smoking articles industry, according to the present invention.

[0042] This description will be set out below with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided merely for indicative and therefore non-limiting purposes, in which: figure 1 shows a diagrammatic side view of a unit for transferring discrete elements according to the present invention; figure 2 shows a detail of the unit in figure 1; figure 3 diagrammatically shows the exit logic of the discrete elements according to the invention; figure 4 shows a perspective view of the unit in figure 1; figure 4A shows an enlarged detail of the view in figure 4.

[0043] With reference to the accompanying figures, reference numeral 1 globally depicts a unit for transferring discrete elements according to the present invention.

[0044] Without loss of generality, the discrete elements in this case are flavoring capsules, however they could be different elements, nonetheless related by the general concept of being intended for inclusion in segments of smoking articles (filter segments, tobacco segments). The expression "discrete elements" is understood to mean elements that can be separately gripped and moved, in particular by mechanized systems (clamps, gripping elements, suction seats or other).

[0045] The unit 1 comprises a first hopper 2, or other component suitable for bulk storage, containing a mass of first discrete elements 100, in particular according to a first format. In the specific (exemplary, but not limiting) embodiment, these first discrete elements 100 are capsules containing a first type of flavoring.

[0046] The unit 1 further comprises, downstream of the first hopper 2, a first feeding line 3, configured to collect a sequence of first discrete elements 100 from the first hopper 2 and to transfer the sequence of first discrete elements 100 along a first feeding path. In the specific embodiment, the first feeding line 3 is a downstream line and consequently, the first feeding path is a downstream path.

[0047] The first feeding line 3 is a transfer wheel feeding line, comprising a collection wheel 4 or pickup wheel, an auxiliary wheel 5 (optional) and a release wheel 6. The first feeding line 3 may comprise further wheels without altering the same inventive concept.

[0048] Similarly, the unit 1 comprises a second hopper 2', or other component suitable for bulk storage, containing a mass of second discrete elements 200 in particular, according to a second format different from the first format. In the specific embodiment (exemplary, but not limiting), these second discrete elements 200 are capsules containing a second type of flavoring agent, preferably having the same shape and size as the capsules of the first format.

[0049] The unit 1 further comprises, downstream of the second hopper 2', a second feeding line 3' configured to collect a sequence of second discrete elements 200 from the second hopper 2' and to transfer the sequence of second discrete elements 200 along a second feeding path. In the specific embodiment, the second feeding line 3' is set alongside the first feeding line 3 and is also a downstream line. Consequently, the second feeding path is also a downstream path.

[0050] The second feeding line 3' is also a transfer wheel feeding line, comprising a collection wheel 4' or pickup wheel, an auxiliary wheel 5' (optional), and a release wheel 6'. The second feeding line 3' may comprise further wheels without altering the same inventive concept.

[0051] Downstream of the feeding lines 3, 3' and in a zone converging between the feeding paths, the unit 1 further comprises a combination conveyor 7 (in particular, a combining wheel) configured to receive respective sequences of discrete elements 100, 200 from the first feeding line 3 and from the second feeding line 3', respectively, thus forming a single continuous sequence of discrete elements 100, 200.

[0052] In the following description, the combination conveyor 7 will be referred to as the combining wheel 7, thereby without loss of generality. Alternatively to the combining wheel 7, the combination conveyor 7 could comprise a linear conveyor and / or a belt conveyor.

[0053] Each of the aforesaid wheels is provided with retaining seats, in particular suction seats, configured to each retain a respective discrete element 100, 200. These retaining seats are preferably arcuate, e.g., having a spherical cap profile.

[0054] Therefore, each of the feeding lines 3, 3' releases a respective sequence of discrete elements 100, 200 to the combining wheel 7.

[0055] With reference to the collection wheels 4, 4', they partially delimit a lower surface of the respective hopper 2, 2' and / or are partially inserted into the respective hopper 2, 2'.

[0056] Furthermore, each collection wheel 4, 4' is provided with a sequence of peripheral seats 4a arranged with a collection pitch "PP", which is preferably fixed and more preferably uniform.

[0057] In an embodiment, the collection pitches "PP" of the two collection wheels 4, 4' are identical to each other.

[0058] Each feeding line 3, 3' is configured to perform a change in pitch between the respective discrete elements 100, 200 along the respective feeding path.

[0059] In greater detail, each feeding line 3, 3' is configured to perform a change in pitch between the respective discrete elements 100, 200 from a uniform pitch value (collection pitch "PP") to a varying pitch value, in particular, alternating (alternating release pitches "PR1", "PR2", having different values).

[0060] More specifically, each feeding line 3, 3' is configured to release respective pairs of discrete elements 100, 200 so as to make, on the combining wheel 7, a sequence of alternating pairs of first discrete elements 100 and second discrete elements 200.

[0061] In particular, each feeding line 3, 3' (and, in greater detail, the respective release wheel 6, 6') releases respective pairs of discrete elements 100, 200 which are characterized by two pitch values, the first release pitch "PR1" of which is defined between the discrete elements 100, 200 of the same pair, while the second release pitch "PR2" is defined as the distance between consecutive pairs of discrete elements of the same sequence. These release pitches "PR1", "PR2" are preferably different from each other or, if identical, they are identical to each other only in one of the sequences, while they are different in the other sequence.

[0062] According to an aspect of the invention, each feeding line 3, 3' is further configured to perform a change in pitch between the respective discrete elements 100, 200 from a uniform pitch value (collection pitch "PP") to an intermediate pitch value "P-INT", which is also uniform and preferably greater than the collection pitch "PP".

[0063] The pitch increase is preferably performed during the transfer between consecutive wheels of the feeding line 3, 3', which are rotating at mutually different speeds.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' and the release wheel 6, 6' are set to rotate at different tangential speeds, in particular, the release wheel 6, 6' has a tangential speed greater than that of the auxiliary wheel 5, 5', so that each discrete article 100, 200 receives an acceleration at the time of collection by the release wheel 6, 6'.

[0065] Figures 4, 4A show a view of the unit 1 capable of highlighting the zone of tangency between these wheels. The auxiliary wheel 5, 5', with a fixed and uniform pitch, arranges the respective discrete elements 100, 200 in a position suitable for being collected by respective equipment 8, 8' of the release wheel 6, 6'. The receiving seats 5a of the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' and the receiving seats 8a formed on the equipment 8, 8' of the release wheel 6, 6' are configured to allow the simultaneous or almost simultaneous gripping of each discrete element 100, 200 at different, opposing regions of the discrete element 100, 200. Thus, the gripping by the equipment 8, 8' of the release wheel 6, 6' performs a separation of the discrete elements 100, 200 from the receiving seats 5a of the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' and a tangential acceleration thereof reaching a greater tangential speed. Thus, the intermediate pitch "P-INT" is the pitch reached by the discrete elements 100, 200 immediately after being collected by the release wheel 6, 6'.

[0066] More specifically, the receiving seats 5a of the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' and the receiving seats 8a formed on the equipment 8, 8' of the release wheel 6, 6' have respective frontal recesses / notches, such as to: allow the receiving seats 8a of the release wheel 6, 6' to reach the discrete elements 100, 200 supported by the auxiliary wheel 5, 5', engaging therewith in a tangential direction without dislodging them from these seats and, on reaching the position suitable for collecting them; allow the discrete elements 100, 200 to tangentially disengage from the receiving seats 5a of the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' under the action of the acceleration given by the equipment 8, 8' of the release wheel 6, 6' (different from the engagement and radial disengagement typical of the transfer between homokinetic wheels).

[0067] Therefore, the release wheel 6, 6' arranges the equipment 8, 8' having a constant pitch in the zone of tangency with the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' so as to collect the respective discrete elements 100, 200, also having a fixed pitch. Figures 4, 4A show the collection of the discrete elements 100, 200 from the auxiliary wheel 5, 5' by the release wheel 6, 6', and the equipment 8, 8' in this zone has the respective receiving seats 8a equally spaced apart from one another (constant pitch).

[0068] Furthermore, according to an aspect of the invention, the release wheel 6, 6' takes the role of a spacing wheel, defining, at the exit, the desired spacing, which is different from the spacing at the inlet. In other words, each release wheel 6, 6' is configured to perform a change in pitch between consecutive discrete elements during movement of the discrete elements on the spacing wheel, starting from the initial intermediate pitch "P-INT", thus obtaining, at the exit, the aforesaid release pitches "PR1", "PR2".

[0069] In particular, each release wheel 6, 6' comprises a plurality of movable equipment 8, 8' distributed along the periphery thereof, each configured to support a respective discrete element 100, 200, which are movable with at least a tangential displacement component so as to vary the circumferential distance between consecutive discrete elements 100, 200 during the rotation of the release wheel 6, 6'.

[0070] In an embodiment, the release wheel 6, 6' is only provided with movable equipment, so as to obtain a tangential displacement of all the discrete elements 100, 200 supported by the release wheel 6, 6'.

[0071] Alternatively, according to the illustrated embodiment, the release wheel 6, 6' further comprises a plurality of fixed equipment 9, 9' interspersed with the movable equipment 8, 8', each configured to support a respective discrete element 100, 200. Thus, only the movement of one discrete element 100, 200 is performed for each pair of consecutive discrete elements 100, 200, thus obtaining a simplification of the structure of the wheel.

[0072] As visible in figures 1 and 2, each movable equipment 8, 8' is preferably hinged about a tilting axis "X", preferably parallel to the rotation axis of the release wheel 6, 6' and positioned to rotate about the tilting axis by means of a movement mechanism 10.

[0073] The movement mechanism 10 is preferably a cam mechanism, in particular driven by the rotation of the release wheel 6, 6'.

[0074] More specifically, the release wheel 6, 6' comprises a fixed cam 10a with a radius varying as a function of the angular zone about the rotation axis of the release wheel 6, 6', a cam follower 10b sliding in the cam, fixed to the movable equipment 8, 8' in an eccentric position with respect to the respective tilting axis "X". Thus, during the revolution motion of the movable equipment 8, 8' about the rotation axis of the release wheel 6, 6' the movable equipment 8, 8' undergoes a back-and-forth oscillation, periodically causing them to move closer to and away from the adjacent fixed equipment 9, 9'.

[0075] With reference to the combining wheel 7, it has a sequence of receiving seats 7a arranged according to four pitches, which are mutually consecutive and recurrent, comprising (figure 3): a first exit pitch "P1" defined between the first discrete elements 100 of the same pair, a second exit pitch "P2" defined between the second discrete elements 200 of the same pair, a third exit step "P3" defined between each second rear discrete element 200 of each pair of second discrete elements 200 and the first front discrete element 100 (of each pair of first discrete elements 100), immediately following; and a fourth exit pitch defined between each first rear discrete element 100 of each pair of first discrete elements 100 and the second front discrete element 200 (of each pair of second discrete elements 200), immediately following.

[0076] This distribution of pitches "P1"-"P4" is also valid in the case of combination conveyors having a non-wheel configuration, e.g., a linear or loop (belt) configuration.

[0077] At least two of these exit pitches "P1"-"P4" are preferably different from each other, at least three of these exit pitches "P1"-"P4" are preferably different from one another and more preferably the four exit pitches "P1"-"P4" are different from one another. The values of the four pitches "P1"-"P4" and the mutual relationship thereof are determined by the specific distance between the four discrete elements 100, 200 in the final configuration, inserted in the finished article.

[0078] According to a non-illustrated embodiment variant, the spacing wheel performing the pitch change defining the two release pitches "PR1", "PR2" (from the intermediate pitch value "P-INT" or, in the absence thereof, from the collection pitch value "PP") is an intermediate wheel different from the release wheel, which may therefore be optionally configured as a fixed-pitch transfer wheel or another wheel assigned to one or more additional operations different from the pitch change.

[0079] In use, respective sequences of discrete elements 100, 200 are formed by means of the two feeding lines 3, 3' with a predetermined collection pitch "PP", which is preferably fixed and uniform.

[0080] During the advancing of the discrete elements 100, 200 along the two feeding lines 3, 3' an increase in pitch is (optionally) performed up to an intermediate pitch value "P-INT", which is uniform and greater than the collection pitch "PP".

[0081] Then, a spacing is performed between the discrete elements 100, 200 of each sequence so as to obtain respective pairs of discrete elements 100, 200, in particular, each sequence defining respective pairs of discrete elements 100, 200 arranged according to two respective release pitches "PR1", "PR2" (the release pitches of the first feeding line 3 may differ from the release pitches of the second feeding line 3').

[0082] Finally, the pairs of discrete elements 100, 200 are released onto a combining wheel 7, which forms a single sequence of first and second discrete elements 100, 200, in particular in pairs in the "A-A-B-B-A-A-B-B" pattern and so on, with a distribution of four pitch values, "P1"-"P4".

Claims

1. A unit (1) for transferring discrete elements (100, 200), in particular capsules, intended for inclusion in segments of the smoking articles industry, comprising: - a first hopper (2) for containing first discrete elements (100), in particular having a first format; - a second hopper (2') for containing second discrete elements (200), in particular having a second format different from said first format; - a combination conveyor (7), in particular a combining wheel (7); - a first feeding line (3) arranged between the first hopper (2) and the combination conveyor (7) and configured to collect a sequence of first discrete elements (100) from the first hopper (2), to transfer the sequence of first discrete elements (100) along a first feeding path and to release said first discrete elements (100) to the combination conveyor (7); - a second feeding line (3) arranged between the second hopper (2) and the combination conveyor (7) and configured to collect a sequence of second discrete elements (200) from the second hopper (2'), to transfer the sequence of second discrete elements (200) along a second feeding path and to release said second discrete elements (200) to the combination conveyor (7); wherein said feeding lines (3, 3') are configured to perform a change in pitch between successive discrete elements (100, 200) along the respective feeding path, and wherein the feeding lines (3, 3') are configured to release respective pairs of discrete elements (100, 200) so as to make, on the combination conveyor (7), a sequence of alternating pairs of first discrete elements (100) and second discrete elements (200).

2. A unit (1) according to claim 1, wherein each feeding line (3, 3') comprises a collection wheel (4, 4') partially delimiting a lower surface of the respective hopper (2, 2') and / or partially inserted into the respective hopper (2, 2') and provided with a sequence of peripheral seats arranged with a collection pitch (PP), said collection pitch (PP) being preferably fixed and more preferably uniform, the collection pitches (PP) of the two collection wheels (4, 4') being preferably identical to each other.

3. A unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each advancement line (3, 3') further comprises a release wheel (6, 6') configured to release pairs of discrete elements (100, 200) to the combination conveyor (7), and wherein said release wheel (6, 6') is configured to release a sequence of alternating pairs of discrete elements (100, 200) with at least one predetermined first release pitch (PR1) between the two discrete elements (100, 200) of the same pair, and preferably with a second release pitch (PR2) between pairs of consecutive discrete elements (100, 200), different from said first release pitch (PR1).

4. A unit (1) according to claim 3, wherein the combination conveyor (7) has a sequence of receiving seats (7a) arranged in accordance with four pitches (P1-P4), which are mutually consecutive and recurrent, comprising a first exit pitch (P1) defined between the first discrete elements (100) of the same pair, a second exit pitch (P2) defined between the second discrete elements (200) of the same pair, a third exit pitch (P3) defined between each second rear discrete element (200) and the first front discrete element (100), immediately following and a fourth exit pitch (P4) defined between each first rear discrete element (100) and the second front discrete element (100), immediately following, and wherein at least two of said exit pitches (P1-P4) are different from each other, preferably at least three of said exit pitches (P1-P4) being different from one another and more preferably said four exit pitches (P1-P4) being different from one another.

5. A unit (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein each feeding line (3, 3') comprises a spacing wheel (6, 6'), in particular defined by said release wheel (6, 6'), configured to perform a change in pitch between consecutive discrete elements (100, 200) during the movement of said discrete elements (100, 200) on said spacing wheel (6, 6') obtaining, on exit, said at least one respective release pitch (PR1, PR2).

6. A unit (1) according to claim 5, wherein said spacing wheel (6, 6') comprises a plurality of movable equipment (8, 8') each configured to support a respective discrete element (100, 200), said movable equipment being provided at least with a tangential displacement component so as to vary the circumferential distance between consecutive discrete elements (100, 200) during the rotation of the spacing wheel (6, 6').

7. A unit (1) according to claim 6, wherein said spacing wheel (6, 6') further comprises a plurality of fixed equipment (9, 9') interspersed with said movable equipment (8, 8') and each configured to support a respective discrete element (100, 200).

8. A unit (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein each movable equipment (8, 8') is hinged about a tilting axis (X) preferably parallel to the rotation axis of the spacing wheel (6, 6') and positioned to rotate about the tilting axis (X) by means of a respective actuation mechanism, in particular having a cam and operated by the rotation of the same spacing wheel (6, 6').

9. A unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 5 to 8, comprising a wheel (5, 5') having a fixed, and preferably uniform pitch, arranged upstream of the spacing wheel (6, 6') for releasing the discrete elements (100, 200) to said spacing wheel (6, 6').

10. A unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each feeding line (3, 3') is configured to increase the pitch value from said collection pitch (PP) to an intermediate pitch (P-INT), which is greater than said collection pitch (PP), in particular said increase in pitch being carried out during the transfer between consecutive wheels (5, 6; 5', 6') of said feeding line (3, 3'), which are rotating at reciprocally different tangential speeds.

11. A unit (1) according to claim 10, when dependent on any one of claims 5-9, wherein the second of said consecutive wheels (5, 6; 5', 6') is said spacing wheel (6, 6').

12. A method for transferring discrete elements (100, 200), in particular capsules, intended for inclusion in segments of the smoking articles industry, preferably carried out by means of a unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: - collecting first discrete elements (100), in particular having a first format, from a first hopper (2) forming a sequence of first discrete elements (100) having a respective collection pitch (PP); - collecting second discrete elements (200), in particular having a second format different from said first format, from a second hopper (2') forming a sequence of second discrete elements (200) having a respective collection pitch (PP); - transferring said sequence of discrete elements (100, 200) along respective feeding paths; - performing a change in pitch between successive discrete elements (100, 200) along the respective feeding path; - mutually combining respective pairs of discrete elements (100, 200) so as to make a continuous sequence of alternating pairs of first discrete elements (100) and second discrete elements (200).

13. A method according to claim 12, wherein: the collection pitches (PP) of the first discrete elements (100) are uniform; the collection pitches (PP) of the second discrete elements (200) are uniform; the collection pitches (PP) of the first discrete elements (100) and the collection pitches (PP) of the second discrete elements (200) are preferably identical to each other.

14. A method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein said step of mutually combining respective pairs of discrete elements (100, 200) is carried out by forming a continuous sequence of discrete elements (100), 200) arranged in accordance with four mutually alternating exit pitches (P1-P4), of which a first exit pitch (P1) is defined between the first discrete elements (100) of the same pair, a second exit pitch (P2) is defined between the second discrete elements (200) of the same pair, a third exit pitch (P3) is defined between each second rear discrete element (200) and the first front discrete element (100) immediately following, and a fourth exit pitch (P4) is defined between each first rear discrete element (100) and the second front discrete element (200) immediately following; wherein at least two of said exit pitches (P1-P4), preferably at least three of the exit pitches (P1-P4) and more preferably all said exit pitches (P1-P4) are different from one another.

15. A method according to any one of the preceding claims 12 to 14, wherein said step of performing a change in pitch between successive discrete elements (100, 200) is made from respective sequences of discrete elements (100, 200) arranged in accordance with a uniform pitch obtaining respective sequences of pairs of discrete elements (100, 200), wherein the discrete elements are arranged with at least one predetermined release pitch (PR1, PR2), preferably with two mutually alternating and different release pitches (PR1, PR2).

16. A method according to claim 15, wherein said step of performing a change in pitch between successive discrete elements (100, 200) is made by performing a tangential approaching of some discrete elements (100, 200), in particular an alternate sub-group, towards the other discrete elements (100, 200) of the same sequence while said other discrete elements (100, 200) are caused to advance at a uniform speed along the respective feeding path.

17. A method according to any one of the preceding claims 12 to 16, further comprising a step of increasing the pitch value between the discrete elements (100, 200) of each sequence from the respective collection pitch (PP) to an intermediate pitch (P-INT), which is greater than said collection pitch (PP), the collection pitch (PP) and the intermediate pitch (P-INT) of each sequence being preferably uniform.

Images