Machine for loading and threading a web material for a manufacturing plant of the tobacco industry

Abstract

A machine (2) for loading and threading a material web (N) for a manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) of the tobacco industry; wherein the machine (2) is configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from at least another machine (MC; MP) of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1); the machine (2) for loading and threading comprises: a loading unit (5) configured to accommodate a reel (3) of material web (N) at a loading station (SC); and a threading unit (6) configured to receive at a receiving station (SR) a terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the reel (3) accommodated by the loading unit (5); the threading unit (6) comprises a conveying device (10) configured to move the terminal end (4) from the receiving station (SR) to a delivery station (SD) at which the terminal end (4) is deliverable to the other machine (MP, MC) of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) of the tobacco industry.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000024840 filed on November 5, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a machine for supplying and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry.

[0003] Preferably, but not exclusively, the plant (to which the material web is fed by the machine for loading and threading) comprises a packaging machine for products of the tobacco industry. In this case, the material web comprises at least one material selected from (non-exhaustive list): paper, paperboard, multilayer material, plastic material, and aluminum.PRIOR ART

[0004] In the tobacco industry, especially in the field of manufacturing machines for smoking products and packaging machines for smoking products, the feeding of a web-like material occurs by unwinding the material from a reel, wherein the web-like material is wound neatly onto a support (generally consisting of a tube) in shapes that vary, depending on the intended use, from cylindrical to frustoconical.

[0005] To facilitate the reel change (i.e. the switch from the reel currently in use that is about to finish to a new reel of the same material), a limited number (typically one or two) of new reels is typically made available on board the same machine in the plant which can then be used for the reel change.

[0006] However, this solution has the drawback of requiring a continuous movement of reels towards the product manufacturing machine or towards the packaging machine, thereby cluttering the peripheral area of the product manufacturing machine or towards the packaging machine. Thus, the product manufacturing machine or towards the packaging machine have large dimensions, as well.

[0007] Furthermore, in the plants of the known type, the need may arise of avoiding any obstacles (both of architectural or structural type such as, for example, columns), and layout obstacles (due to the positioning of other machines in the plant).

[0008] US4744711A relates to a machine for the reel change.

[0009] GB2245247A relates to a system for manufacturing and packaging cigarettes.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a machine for loading and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry which is at least partially devoid of the drawbacks described above and is easy and cost-effective to implement.

[0011] According to the present invention, a machine for loading and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry is provided, according to what is claimed in the appended claims.

[0012] Furthermore, with the present invention, a manufacturing or packaging plant for products of the tobacco industry is provided, according to what is claimed in the appended claims.

[0013] In addition, with the present invention, a method for loading and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry is provided, according to what is claimed in the appended claims.

[0014] The claims describe preferred embodiments of the present invention, forming an integral part of the present description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate non-limiting embodiment examples thereof, wherein: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a reel; Figure 2 shows a schematic plan view (from above) of a manufacturing or packaging plant comprising a machine for loading and threading according to the present invention; Figure 3 is a perspective view (with some parts removed for clarity) of a machine for loading and threading according to a possible embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the machine for loading and threading of Figure 3; Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of a receiving station of the machine for loading and threading of Figures 3 and 4; Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of the receiving station of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of a delivery station of the machine for loading and threading of Figures 3 and 4; and Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of the delivery station of Figure 7. PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In Figure 2, reference numeral 1 indicates, as a whole, a plant of the tobacco industry. The plant 1 comprises a machine 2 for loading and threading a (new) material web N and at least one machine selected from (non-exhaustive list): a manufacturing machine MP for products of the tobacco industry (such as, for example, continuous rods, pieces of smoking articles or smoking articles) and a packaging machine MC for products of the tobacco industry.

[0017] According to a possible (non-limiting) embodiment, the machine MP is a manufacturing machine for, in particular, smoking articles such as, for example (non-exhaustive list): cigarettes, cigars, small cigars or cigarillos, heatable aerosol-forming articles, electronic-type cigarettes or e-cigs, auxiliary products such as filters, e-cigs refills, and other tobacco-based products or tobacco-alternative or substitute components

[0018] According to a further possible alternative embodiment, the machine MC is a packaging machine, in particular for smoking articles.

[0019] The machine 2 is a single machine (so-called "stand-alone" machine) and is not to be understood as a unit or a module of, or on board, another machine such as, for example, the manufacturing machine MP or the packaging machine MC. Therefore, the machine 2 is a machine configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from the at least another machine MC, MP of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1.

[0020] The material web N is picked up from a reel 3 (schematically illustrated in Figure 1) of material used in the tobacco industry. In particular, in the reel 3, the material web N is wound neatly onto a support (generally consisting of a tube) in shapes that vary, depending on the intended use, from cylindrical to frustoconical. The reel 3 has a terminal end 4 (indicated in Figure 1). The reel 3 fed to the machine 2 can have the terminal end 4 or, according to the preferred, though non-limiting solution, the terminal end 4 can be locked (i.e. fixed) by means of, for example, a piece of adhesive tape which prevents the terminal end 4 from moving away and, therefore, the material web N from unwinding unintentionally during the handling of the reel 3 itself.

[0021] Preferably, the material web N comprises (in particular, consists of) a material selected from (non-exhaustive list): a packaging material: paper, paperboard, laminated multilayer material (comprising at least one paper layer and / or one thermoplastic layer and / or one aluminum layer), aluminum, a plastic material; or a wrapping material for the rod (for example, paper-based); or any web-like material used in the tobacco industry.

[0022] The material web N is moved longitudinally along an advancement path PA defined between a loading station SC, at which the material web N enters the machine 2, and a delivery station SD, at which the material web N exits the machine 2. In other words, preferably the station SD is arranged at an interface section between the machine 2 and the machine MC or MP. In particular, in the section SD, the machine 2 interacts with the machine MC or MP by delivering the material web N to the latter.

[0023] The advancement path PA defines an advancement direction DA of the material web N. The advancement direction DA has an advancement direction which goes from the loading station SC to the delivery station SD.

[0024] The machine 2 for loading and threading comprises a loading unit 5 (illustrated in Figures 3 and 4) and a threading unit 6 (illustrated in detail in Figures 5 and 6).

[0025] The loading unit 5 is configured to accommodate a new reel 3 of material web N at the loading station SC. In particular, the loading unit 5 is configured to accommodate both the reel 3 currently in use and the new reel 3 with which the reel 3 in use will be replaced once it is finished.

[0026] The threading unit 6 is configured to receive, at a receiving station SR, a terminal end 4 of the material web N from the (new) reel 3 accommodated by the loading unit 5. The receiving station SR is interposed between the loading station SC and the delivery station SD.

[0027] The threading unit 6 comprises a conveying device 7 configured to move the terminal end 4 of the web N from the receiving station SR to a delivery station SD at which the terminal end 4 of the web N is deliverable (i.e. is delivered) to the other machine MP, MC of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1 of the tobacco industry. Preferably, the threading unit 6 is arranged downstream of the loading unit 5.

[0028] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the machine 2 further comprises a storage station SS, at which a plurality of reels 3 is provided. Preferably, but not limitedly, the storage station SS is arranged at the rear side (i.e. in the part arranged on the opposite side with respect to that illustrated in Figures 3-8, as schematically illustrated in Figure 2). In particular, in case the storage section SS is arranged on the rear side (i.e. on the side of the machine 2 which is opposite the side of the machine 2 where the loading station SC is arranged), the machine 2 comprises a feeding channel 8 (through-opening), in particular with horizontal longitudinal extension, extending between the storage station SS and the loading station SC.

[0029] The storage station SS is arranged in the area or in the proximity of the machine 2. The machine 2 is provided with a pick-up device (not illustrated), in particular an automatic one, configured to pick up (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) at least one reel 3 at the storage station SS and to move it to the loading station SC. In case the machine 2 has the feeding channel 8, the pick-up device is configured to move between the storage station SS and the loading station SC passing through the feeding channel 8. In this case, the new reel 3 is fed (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) towards the loading unit 5 from the rear side of the machine 2, to then be fed frontally to the loading unit 5.

[0030] According to a possible embodiment, the pick-up device comprises an arm, such as, for example, a robotic arm, or a linear conveyor.

[0031] According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in Figures 3-8, the loading unit 5 comprises a loading device 10, in particular vertically arranged and provided with two seats 11, preferably two horizontally arranged pins; the seat 11A is configured to accommodate the new reel 3 and the seat 11B is configured to accommodate the reel 3 currently in use (i.e. the one the material web N is currently unwound from) and to be replaced with the new reel 3 once it is finished or at least about to finish. The loading device 10 is configured to rotate cyclically about an axis X of rotation (Figure 3), in particular horizontal, between a loading position in which the new reel 3 is arranged on the seat 11A (i.e. the seat illustrated at the bottom in Figures 3 and 4) and a position of use in which, by rotating the loading device 10, the reel 3 is brought to the position previously occupied by the reel 3 (in particular, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, to the occupied position at the top). In particular, when the loading device 10 is moved from the loading position to the position of use, by means of the pick-up device a further new reel 3 is made available to be loaded onto the empty seat 11 facing the pick-up device in order to be subsequently loaded onto the loading unit 5.

[0032] At this point, the terminal end 4 of the new reel 3 is picked up, in particular manually or automatically. Preferably, the terminal end 4 is freed (by removing the adhesive tape - if present) and possibly trimmed (i.e. cut flush with the centering notches to make the terminal end 4 to match the respective centering notch (if present)). At this point, the web N (in particular, the terminal end 4 thereof) is brought to the threading unit 6, preferably passing by a deflection unit 12.

[0033] According to the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the conveying device 7 defines a closed conveying path PC between a receiving station SR and the delivery station SD. The conveying device 7 comprises two conveying means 13 (illustrated, in particular, in a grey colour in Figures 5-8), in particular chains, arranged parallel to and spaced apart from each other and both configured to move along the conveying path PC. In particular, the two conveying means 13 are coplanar to each other on a plane which is orthogonal to the plane of Figure 4. The two conveying means 13 are configured to move together the terminal end 4 of the same material web N. In particular, the conveying means 13 slide laterally (along the longitudinal extension of the material web N) with respect to the material web N. According to a not illustrated variant, the conveying means 13 are belts. According to a further not illustrated variant, the conveying means 13 comprise channels within which compressed air is fed that conveys the terminal end 4 towards the delivery station SD, thanks to its action inside the channel.

[0034] Advantageously, (as illustrated in Figures 3-7) the machine 2 (in particular, the conveying device 7) comprises at least one drive device 14 that is configured to move, in particular manually (such as, for example, a crank as the one illustrated in the accompanying Figures) or semi-automatically (such as, for example, a set consisting of a crank and a driving pinion configured to rotate about its axis driven by a drive, in particular an electric one) or automatically, both conveying means 13, in particular at least partially simultaneously.

[0035] Preferably, but not exclusively, the drive device 14 is provided with at least two advancement means (in particular, two toothed pulleys), each configured to engage a respective conveying means 13 so as to drag it into motion along the conveying path PC.

[0036] In order to ensure the correct relative positioning between the terminal end 4 of the web N and the conveying means 13, the threading unit 6 comprises at least one retaining means 15 configured to retain the terminal end 4 of the web N of the new reel 3. In the illustrated (non-limiting) embodiment, the at least one retaining means 15 extends transversally, in particular orthogonally, between the two conveying means 13 to which it is rigidly connected (in particular, each retaining means 15 joins the two conveying means 13) and with which it is configured to move (in particular, integrally, i.e. together). In particular, each retaining means 15 is flat (in particular, it is a flat plate fixed at the respective ends to each conveying means 13). Each retaining means 15 is configured to retain the terminal end 4 of the web N by means of a releasable adhesive connection, in particular it is configured to accommodate a piece of adhesive tape (not illustrated and preferably different from the piece holding the end 4 in place when the reel 3 is handled upstream of the loading onto the machine 2).

[0037] In the preferred (but non-limiting) embodiment illustrated in Figures 3-8, the retaining means 15 are two and are arranged such that, when one of the two retaining means 15 is in the receiving station SR, the other retaining means 15 is in the delivery station SD, and vice versa. In this manner, it is possible to speed up the threading procedure. In addition, in this manner it is possible to recognize when the retaining means 15 holding the terminal end 4 has reached the delivery station SD (i.e. when the other retaining means 15 reaches the receiving station SR). In this manner, the operator immediately recognizes when he / she has to go to the delivery station SD (typically far from the receiving station SR and not visible from the latter) to pick up the terminal end 4 from the retaining means 15.

[0038] Advantageously, in addition, the conveying device 7 comprises at least one indication means (not illustrated), in particular a notch (such as, for example, a coloured chain mesh) obtained directly on the conveying means 13, configured to indicate the position along the conveying path PC, in particular the arrival, of the at least one retaining means 15. In other words, similarly to the case of the two retaining means 15 described above, when the retaining means 15 is in the delivery station SD, the indication means is in the receiving position; and vice versa. In this manner, the operator immediately recognizes when he / she has to go to the delivery station SD (typically far from the receiving station SR and not visible from the latter) to pick up the terminal end 4 of the web N from the retaining means 15.

[0039] As illustrated in the non-limiting accompanying figures, between the receiving station SR and the delivery station SD the conveying path PC comprises an ascending branch 16, in particular vertical or inclined with respect to the vertical, a central branch 17, in particular horizontal, and a descending branch 18, in particular vertical or inclined with respect to the vertical. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the central branch 17 is substantially straight, it is clear that the central branch 17 could also have a not straight progression, in order to avoid (structural or layout) obstacles next to the machine 2. The central branch 17 extends to a height H, in particular a measurement measured vertically between the bearing plane of the machine 2 itself and the central branch 17 (in particular, the lower surface of the central branch 17), which is in particular greater than 2.5 metres; it is thereby possible to avoid, i.e. pass over, layout obstacles (such as other machines, such as, for example, a packaging machine MC or a manufacturing machine MP for products; or other feeding paths).

[0040] Preferably, at least in the area of the central branch 17, a protective wall exists which extends below the conveying path PC and is configured to possibly collect a portion of the material web N in case it tears apart or detaches from the retaining means 15, preventing it from ending up on the head of an operator or from becoming tangled with any other elements of the machine 2.

[0041] Preferably, but not limitedly, the advancement path PA and the conveying path PC substantially face each other (in particular, they substantially coincide) at the ascending branch 16, the central branch 17, and the descending branch 18 of the conveying path PC.

[0042] Advantageously, the machine 2 comprises a plurality of deflection elements 19 (in particular, deflection rollers which, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, are provided with an axis of rotation, about which they are configured to rotate) configured to guide the material web N into the machine 2.

[0043] Advantageously, the machine 2 comprises a plurality of deflection elements 20 (in particular, deflection pinions which, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, are provided with an axis of rotation, about which they are configured to rotate) configured to guide, in particular, the conveying means 13 into the machine 2.

[0044] In use, the new reel 3 is loaded onto the loading unit 5, the terminal end 4 of the web N of the reel 3 is picked up (possibly cut flush with the notches) and subsequently, at the receiving station SR, it is connected to the retaining means 15 (in particular, by means of a piece of adhesive tape). Once the terminal end 4 has been locked to the retaining means 15, the operator provides for driving (in particular, rotating) the drive device 14 (i.e. in the embodiment of the accompanying figures, the crank is rotated). Thereafter, once the terminal end 4 of the web N has reached at the delivery station SD, the operator provides for disconnecting the terminal end 4 from the retaining means and introduces it into one of the machines (different from the machine 2) arranged at the delivery station SD.

[0045] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for loading and threading a new material web N for a further machine MP, MC of a manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1 of the tobacco industry. The machine 2 is configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from the at least another machine MC or MP of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1. The method described in the following is preferably carried out by the machine 2 previously described.

[0046] In the following, the modes with which the machine 2 loads and threads the material web N before delivering it to a different machine of the plant 1, are described.

[0047] According to a possible embodiment, the method mainly (but not exclusively) comprises the steps of: loading, in particular by means of the loading unit 5, a new reel 3 of material web N at the loading station SC; and threading (providing), in particular by means of the threading unit 6, the terminal end 4 of the material web N of the reel 3 accommodated by the loading unit 5; and moving, in particular by means of the conveying device 7 of the threading unit 6, the terminal end 4 of the web N from the receiving station SR to the delivery station SD at which the terminal end 4 is deliverable (in use) to the other machine 2 of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1 of the tobacco industry.

[0048] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the method comprises the following further steps (which preferably occur upstream of the step of loading the new reel 3): providing, in the storage station SS, a plurality of reels 3; and picking up, in particular automatically, by means of the pick-up device (not illustrated) at least one reel 3 (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) at the storage station SS; and moving, by means of the pick-up device, at least one reel 3 (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) at the loading station SC.

[0049] Advantageously, but not limitedly, if the loading unit 5 comprises a loading device 10, arranged in particular vertically, and provided with two seats 11, preferably two horizontally arranged pins, the seat 11A being configured to accommodate the new reel 3 and the seat 11B being configured to accommodate the reel 3 currently in use and to be replaced with the new reel 3, so the method comprises the further steps of rotating cyclically the loading device 10 about the axis X of rotation, in particular horizontal, between a loading position in which the new reel 3 is arranged on the first seat 11, and a position of use in which the terminal end 4 of the new reel 3 is picked up, in particular manually or automatically. In particular, when the loading device 10 is moved from the loading position to the position of use, by means of the pick-up device a further new reel 3 is made available to be loaded onto the empty seat 11 facing the pick-up device in order to be subsequently loaded onto the loading unit 5.

[0050] Advantageously, but not limitedly, according to what previously described, the conveying device 7 defines a closed conveying path PC between the receiving station SR and the delivery station SD. The conveying device 7 comprises two conveying means 13, in particular chains, arranged parallel to and spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the method comprises the further steps of moving, in particular manually (such as, for example, a crank like the one illustrated in the accompanying figures) or semi-automatically (such as, for example, the set consisting of a crank and a driving toothed pinion configured to rotate about its axis driven by a drive, in particular an electric one) or automatically, by means of at least one drive device 14 (in particular, by means of the same drive device 14), both conveying means 13, in particular at least partially simultaneously, along the conveying path PC.

[0051] Advantageously, in the illustrated (non-limiting) embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: retaining, in particular by means of a releasable adhesive connection, by at least one retaining means 15 of the threading unit 6, the terminal end 4 of the new reel 3; and moving the retaining means 15, which extends transversally, in particular orthogonally, between the two conveying means 13 to which it is rigidly connected.

[0052] Advantageously, but not limitedly, in case the retaining means 15 are two, they are arranged such that the step of moving the retaining means 15 comprises the sub-steps of arranging the first retaining means 15 in the receiving station SR, when the second retaining means 15 is in the delivery station SD, and vice versa.

[0053] The machine 2 and the method described so far have a plurality of advantages.

[0054] Firstly, the machine 2 and method described so far allow to increase the amount of material actually available at a manufacturing machine MP or a packaging machine MC compared to what currently happens. The storage station SS is provided to accommodate a plurality (e.g., more than five reels 3).

[0055] The machine 2 also allows to deliver the terminal end 4 automatically, without the operator having to manually intervene in order to drag the web N along the advancement path PA.

[0056] Specifically, at the same time (simultaneously) it allows to facilitate the feeding of the material web N picked up from the new reel 3. Indeed, thanks to the configuration of the advancement path PA and the conveying path PC (which, at least in the area of the central branch 17 of the conveying path PC are substantially parallel, in particular superimposed to each other), it is possible to feed in a simple and reliable manner the terminal end 4 to a delivery station SD arranged far away and without the same being visible from the receiving station SR.

[0057] In addition, it allows to easily change the spatial location of the delivery station SD without requiring a change in the layout of plant 1 (i.e. a new positioning of the machines 2, MP, MC which are included in plant 1). Indeed, by changing the progression, in particular of the central branch 17, it is possible to reach any place of the plant 1 itself.

[0058] Further, since the central branch 17 typically passes at heights H greater than 2.5 meters, it is possible to avoid, i.e. pass over, (structural and layout) obstacles below the branch 17 itself. At the same time, since the delivery station SD is typically at human height, the operator can easily remove the end 4 without the aid of lifting means, such as, for example, ladders.

[0059] By providing the machine 2 with two retaining means arranged such that when one of them is in the receiving station SR and the other one is in the delivery station SD, there is not a re-positioning "dead time" of the retaining means in the receiving station SR.

[0060] In addition, in case the conveying means 13 are two (as in the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures), it is possible to guide the material web N more accurately, avoiding displacements.LIST OF THE REFERENCE NUMERALS OF THE FIGURES

[0061] 1plant 2machine 3reel 4terminal end 5loading unit 6threading unit 7conveying device 8feeding channel 10loading device 11seats 12deflection unit 13conveying means 14drive device 15retaining means 16ascending branch 17central branch 18descending branch 19deflection elements 20deflection element DAadvancement direction Hheight MPmanufacturing machine MCpackaging machine Nmaterial web PAadvancement path PCconveying path SCloading station SRreceiving station SSstorage station SDdelivery station

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]In Figure 2, reference numeral 1 indicates, as a whole, a plant of the tobacco industry. The plant 1 comprises a machine 2 for loading and threading a (new) material web N and at least one machine selected from (non-exhaustive list): a manufacturing machine MP for products of the tobacco industry (such as, for example, continuous rods, pieces of smoking articles or smoking articles) and a packaging machine MC for products of the tobacco industry.

[0017]According to a possible (non-limiting) embodiment, the machine MP is a manufacturing machine for, in particular, smoking articles such as, for example (non-exhaustive list): cigarettes, cigars, small cigars or cigarillos, heatable aerosol-forming articles, electronic-type cigarettes or e-cigs, auxiliary products such as filters, e-cigs refills, and other tobacco-based products or tobacco-alternative or substitute components

[0018]According to a further possible alternative embodiment, the machine MC is a packaging machine, in part...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000024840 filed on November 5, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a machine for supplying and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry.

[0003] Preferably, but not exclusively, the plant (to which the material web is fed by the machine for loading and threading) comprises a packaging machine for products of the tobacco industry. In this case, the material web comprises at least one material selected from (non-exhaustive list): paper, paperboard, multilayer material, plastic material, and aluminum.PRIOR ART

[0004] In the tobacco industry, especially in the field of manufacturing machines for smoking products and packaging machines for smoking products, the feeding of a web-like material occurs by unwinding the material from a reel, wherein the web-like material is wound neatly onto a support (generally consisting of a tube) in shapes that vary, depending on the intended use, from cylindrical to frustoconical.

[0005] To facilitate the reel change (i.e. the switch from the reel currently in use that is about to finish to a new reel of the same material), a limited number (typically one or two) of new reels is typically made available on board the same machine in the plant which can then be used for the reel change.

[0006] However, this solution has the drawback of requiring a continuous movement of reels towards the product manufacturing machine or towards the packaging machine, thereby cluttering the peripheral area of the product manufacturing machine or towards the packaging machine. Thus, the product manufacturing machine or towards the packaging machine have large dimensions, as well.

[0007] Furthermore, in the plants of the known type, the need may arise of avoiding any obstacles (both of architectural or structural type such as, for example, columns), and layout obstacles (due to the positioning of other machines in the plant).

[0008] US4744711A relates to a machine for the reel change.

[0009] GB2245247A relates to a system for manufacturing and packaging cigarettes.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a machine for loading and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry which is at least partially devoid of the drawbacks described above and is easy and cost-effective to implement.

[0011] According to the present invention, a machine for loading and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry is provided, according to what is claimed in the appended claims.

[0012] Furthermore, with the present invention, a manufacturing or packaging plant for products of the tobacco industry is provided, according to what is claimed in the appended claims.

[0013] In addition, with the present invention, a method for loading and threading a new material web for a plant of the tobacco industry is provided, according to what is claimed in the appended claims.

[0014] The claims describe preferred embodiments of the present invention, forming an integral part of the present description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate non-limiting embodiment examples thereof, wherein: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a reel; Figure 2 shows a schematic plan view (from above) of a manufacturing or packaging plant comprising a machine for loading and threading according to the present invention; Figure 3 is a perspective view (with some parts removed for clarity) of a machine for loading and threading according to a possible embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the machine for loading and threading of Figure 3; Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of a receiving station of the machine for loading and threading of Figures 3 and 4; Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of the receiving station of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of a delivery station of the machine for loading and threading of Figures 3 and 4; and Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view (with parts removed for clarity) of the delivery station of Figure 7. PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In Figure 2, reference numeral 1 indicates, as a whole, a plant of the tobacco industry. The plant 1 comprises a machine 2 for loading and threading a (new) material web N and at least one machine selected from (non-exhaustive list): a manufacturing machine MP for products of the tobacco industry (such as, for example, continuous rods, pieces of smoking articles or smoking articles) and a packaging machine MC for products of the tobacco industry.

[0017] According to a possible (non-limiting) embodiment, the machine MP is a manufacturing machine for, in particular, smoking articles such as, for example (non-exhaustive list): cigarettes, cigars, small cigars or cigarillos, heatable aerosol-forming articles, electronic-type cigarettes or e-cigs, auxiliary products such as filters, e-cigs refills, and other tobacco-based products or tobacco-alternative or substitute components

[0018] According to a further possible alternative embodiment, the machine MC is a packaging machine, in particular for smoking articles.

[0019] The machine 2 is a single machine (so-called "stand-alone" machine) and is not to be understood as a unit or a module of, or on board, another machine such as, for example, the manufacturing machine MP or the packaging machine MC. Therefore, the machine 2 is a machine configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from the at least another machine MC, MP of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1.

[0020] The material web N is picked up from a reel 3 (schematically illustrated in Figure 1) of material used in the tobacco industry. In particular, in the reel 3, the material web N is wound neatly onto a support (generally consisting of a tube) in shapes that vary, depending on the intended use, from cylindrical to frustoconical. The reel 3 has a terminal end 4 (indicated in Figure 1). The reel 3 fed to the machine 2 can have the terminal end 4 or, according to the preferred, though non-limiting solution, the terminal end 4 can be locked (i.e. fixed) by means of, for example, a piece of adhesive tape which prevents the terminal end 4 from moving away and, therefore, the material web N from unwinding unintentionally during the handling of the reel 3 itself.

[0021] Preferably, the material web N comprises (in particular, consists of) a material selected from (non-exhaustive list): a packaging material: paper, paperboard, laminated multilayer material (comprising at least one paper layer and / or one thermoplastic layer and / or one aluminum layer), aluminum, a plastic material; or a wrapping material for the rod (for example, paper-based); or any web-like material used in the tobacco industry.

[0022] The material web N is moved longitudinally along an advancement path PA defined between a loading station SC, at which the material web N enters the machine 2, and a delivery station SD, at which the material web N exits the machine 2. In other words, preferably the station SD is arranged at an interface section between the machine 2 and the machine MC or MP. In particular, in the section SD, the machine 2 interacts with the machine MC or MP by delivering the material web N to the latter.

[0023] The advancement path PA defines an advancement direction DA of the material web N. The advancement direction DA has an advancement direction which goes from the loading station SC to the delivery station SD.

[0024] The machine 2 for loading and threading comprises a loading unit 5 (illustrated in Figures 3 and 4) and a threading unit 6 (illustrated in detail in Figures 5 and 6).

[0025] The loading unit 5 is configured to accommodate a new reel 3 of material web N at the loading station SC. In particular, the loading unit 5 is configured to accommodate both the reel 3 currently in use and the new reel 3 with which the reel 3 in use will be replaced once it is finished.

[0026] The threading unit 6 is configured to receive, at a receiving station SR, a terminal end 4 of the material web N from the (new) reel 3 accommodated by the loading unit 5. The receiving station SR is interposed between the loading station SC and the delivery station SD.

[0027] The threading unit 6 comprises a conveying device 7 configured to move the terminal end 4 of the web N from the receiving station SR to a delivery station SD at which the terminal end 4 of the web N is deliverable (i.e. is delivered) to the other machine MP, MC of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1 of the tobacco industry. Preferably, the threading unit 6 is arranged downstream of the loading unit 5.

[0028] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the machine 2 further comprises a storage station SS, at which a plurality of reels 3 is provided. Preferably, but not limitedly, the storage station SS is arranged at the rear side (i.e. in the part arranged on the opposite side with respect to that illustrated in Figures 3-8, as schematically illustrated in Figure 2). In particular, in case the storage section SS is arranged on the rear side (i.e. on the side of the machine 2 which is opposite the side of the machine 2 where the loading station SC is arranged), the machine 2 comprises a feeding channel 8 (through-opening), in particular with horizontal longitudinal extension, extending between the storage station SS and the loading station SC.

[0029] The storage station SS is arranged in the area or in the proximity of the machine 2. The machine 2 is provided with a pick-up device (not illustrated), in particular an automatic one, configured to pick up (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) at least one reel 3 at the storage station SS and to move it to the loading station SC. In case the machine 2 has the feeding channel 8, the pick-up device is configured to move between the storage station SS and the loading station SC passing through the feeding channel 8. In this case, the new reel 3 is fed (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) towards the loading unit 5 from the rear side of the machine 2, to then be fed frontally to the loading unit 5.

[0030] According to a possible embodiment, the pick-up device comprises an arm, such as, for example, a robotic arm, or a linear conveyor.

[0031] According to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in Figures 3-8, the loading unit 5 comprises a loading device 10, in particular vertically arranged and provided with two seats 11, preferably two horizontally arranged pins; the seat 11A is configured to accommodate the new reel 3 and the seat 11B is configured to accommodate the reel 3 currently in use (i.e. the one the material web N is currently unwound from) and to be replaced with the new reel 3 once it is finished or at least about to finish. The loading device 10 is configured to rotate cyclically about an axis X of rotation (Figure 3), in particular horizontal, between a loading position in which the new reel 3 is arranged on the seat 11A (i.e. the seat illustrated at the bottom in Figures 3 and 4) and a position of use in which, by rotating the loading device 10, the reel 3 is brought to the position previously occupied by the reel 3 (in particular, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, to the occupied position at the top). In particular, when the loading device 10 is moved from the loading position to the position of use, by means of the pick-up device a further new reel 3 is made available to be loaded onto the empty seat 11 facing the pick-up device in order to be subsequently loaded onto the loading unit 5.

[0032] At this point, the terminal end 4 of the new reel 3 is picked up, in particular manually or automatically. Preferably, the terminal end 4 is freed (by removing the adhesive tape - if present) and possibly trimmed (i.e. cut flush with the centering notches to make the terminal end 4 to match the respective centering notch (if present)). At this point, the web N (in particular, the terminal end 4 thereof) is brought to the threading unit 6, preferably passing by a deflection unit 12.

[0033] According to the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the conveying device 7 defines a closed conveying path PC between a receiving station SR and the delivery station SD. The conveying device 7 comprises two conveying means 13 (illustrated, in particular, in a grey colour in Figures 5-8), in particular chains, arranged parallel to and spaced apart from each other and both configured to move along the conveying path PC. In particular, the two conveying means 13 are coplanar to each other on a plane which is orthogonal to the plane of Figure 4. The two conveying means 13 are configured to move together the terminal end 4 of the same material web N. In particular, the conveying means 13 slide laterally (along the longitudinal extension of the material web N) with respect to the material web N. According to a not illustrated variant, the conveying means 13 are belts. According to a further not illustrated variant, the conveying means 13 comprise channels within which compressed air is fed that conveys the terminal end 4 towards the delivery station SD, thanks to its action inside the channel.

[0034] Advantageously, (as illustrated in Figures 3-7) the machine 2 (in particular, the conveying device 7) comprises at least one drive device 14 that is configured to move, in particular manually (such as, for example, a crank as the one illustrated in the accompanying Figures) or semi-automatically (such as, for example, a set consisting of a crank and a driving pinion configured to rotate about its axis driven by a drive, in particular an electric one) or automatically, both conveying means 13, in particular at least partially simultaneously.

[0035] Preferably, but not exclusively, the drive device 14 is provided with at least two advancement means (in particular, two toothed pulleys), each configured to engage a respective conveying means 13 so as to drag it into motion along the conveying path PC.

[0036] In order to ensure the correct relative positioning between the terminal end 4 of the web N and the conveying means 13, the threading unit 6 comprises at least one retaining means 15 configured to retain the terminal end 4 of the web N of the new reel 3. In the illustrated (non-limiting) embodiment, the at least one retaining means 15 extends transversally, in particular orthogonally, between the two conveying means 13 to which it is rigidly connected (in particular, each retaining means 15 joins the two conveying means 13) and with which it is configured to move (in particular, integrally, i.e. together). In particular, each retaining means 15 is flat (in particular, it is a flat plate fixed at the respective ends to each conveying means 13). Each retaining means 15 is configured to retain the terminal end 4 of the web N by means of a releasable adhesive connection, in particular it is configured to accommodate a piece of adhesive tape (not illustrated and preferably different from the piece holding the end 4 in place when the reel 3 is handled upstream of the loading onto the machine 2).

[0037] In the preferred (but non-limiting) embodiment illustrated in Figures 3-8, the retaining means 15 are two and are arranged such that, when one of the two retaining means 15 is in the receiving station SR, the other retaining means 15 is in the delivery station SD, and vice versa. In this manner, it is possible to speed up the threading procedure. In addition, in this manner it is possible to recognize when the retaining means 15 holding the terminal end 4 has reached the delivery station SD (i.e. when the other retaining means 15 reaches the receiving station SR). In this manner, the operator immediately recognizes when he / she has to go to the delivery station SD (typically far from the receiving station SR and not visible from the latter) to pick up the terminal end 4 from the retaining means 15.

[0038] Advantageously, in addition, the conveying device 7 comprises at least one indication means (not illustrated), in particular a notch (such as, for example, a coloured chain mesh) obtained directly on the conveying means 13, configured to indicate the position along the conveying path PC, in particular the arrival, of the at least one retaining means 15. In other words, similarly to the case of the two retaining means 15 described above, when the retaining means 15 is in the delivery station SD, the indication means is in the receiving position; and vice versa. In this manner, the operator immediately recognizes when he / she has to go to the delivery station SD (typically far from the receiving station SR and not visible from the latter) to pick up the terminal end 4 of the web N from the retaining means 15.

[0039] As illustrated in the non-limiting accompanying figures, between the receiving station SR and the delivery station SD the conveying path PC comprises an ascending branch 16, in particular vertical or inclined with respect to the vertical, a central branch 17, in particular horizontal, and a descending branch 18, in particular vertical or inclined with respect to the vertical. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the central branch 17 is substantially straight, it is clear that the central branch 17 could also have a not straight progression, in order to avoid (structural or layout) obstacles next to the machine 2. The central branch 17 extends to a height H, in particular a measurement measured vertically between the bearing plane of the machine 2 itself and the central branch 17 (in particular, the lower surface of the central branch 17), which is in particular greater than 2.5 metres; it is thereby possible to avoid, i.e. pass over, layout obstacles (such as other machines, such as, for example, a packaging machine MC or a manufacturing machine MP for products; or other feeding paths).

[0040] Preferably, at least in the area of the central branch 17, a protective wall exists which extends below the conveying path PC and is configured to possibly collect a portion of the material web N in case it tears apart or detaches from the retaining means 15, preventing it from ending up on the head of an operator or from becoming tangled with any other elements of the machine 2.

[0041] Preferably, but not limitedly, the advancement path PA and the conveying path PC substantially face each other (in particular, they substantially coincide) at the ascending branch 16, the central branch 17, and the descending branch 18 of the conveying path PC.

[0042] Advantageously, the machine 2 comprises a plurality of deflection elements 19 (in particular, deflection rollers which, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, are provided with an axis of rotation, about which they are configured to rotate) configured to guide the material web N into the machine 2.

[0043] Advantageously, the machine 2 comprises a plurality of deflection elements 20 (in particular, deflection pinions which, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, are provided with an axis of rotation, about which they are configured to rotate) configured to guide, in particular, the conveying means 13 into the machine 2.

[0044] In use, the new reel 3 is loaded onto the loading unit 5, the terminal end 4 of the web N of the reel 3 is picked up (possibly cut flush with the notches) and subsequently, at the receiving station SR, it is connected to the retaining means 15 (in particular, by means of a piece of adhesive tape). Once the terminal end 4 has been locked to the retaining means 15, the operator provides for driving (in particular, rotating) the drive device 14 (i.e. in the embodiment of the accompanying figures, the crank is rotated). Thereafter, once the terminal end 4 of the web N has reached at the delivery station SD, the operator provides for disconnecting the terminal end 4 from the retaining means and introduces it into one of the machines (different from the machine 2) arranged at the delivery station SD.

[0045] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for loading and threading a new material web N for a further machine MP, MC of a manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1 of the tobacco industry. The machine 2 is configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from the at least another machine MC or MP of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1. The method described in the following is preferably carried out by the machine 2 previously described.

[0046] In the following, the modes with which the machine 2 loads and threads the material web N before delivering it to a different machine of the plant 1, are described.

[0047] According to a possible embodiment, the method mainly (but not exclusively) comprises the steps of: loading, in particular by means of the loading unit 5, a new reel 3 of material web N at the loading station SC; and threading (providing), in particular by means of the threading unit 6, the terminal end 4 of the material web N of the reel 3 accommodated by the loading unit 5; and moving, in particular by means of the conveying device 7 of the threading unit 6, the terminal end 4 of the web N from the receiving station SR to the delivery station SD at which the terminal end 4 is deliverable (in use) to the other machine 2 of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant 1 of the tobacco industry.

[0048] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the method comprises the following further steps (which preferably occur upstream of the step of loading the new reel 3): providing, in the storage station SS, a plurality of reels 3; and picking up, in particular automatically, by means of the pick-up device (not illustrated) at least one reel 3 (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) at the storage station SS; and moving, by means of the pick-up device, at least one reel 3 (preferably with vertical orientation of the reel 3, i.e. with the axis thereof being substantially horizontal) at the loading station SC.

[0049] Advantageously, but not limitedly, if the loading unit 5 comprises a loading device 10, arranged in particular vertically, and provided with two seats 11, preferably two horizontally arranged pins, the seat 11A being configured to accommodate the new reel 3 and the seat 11B being configured to accommodate the reel 3 currently in use and to be replaced with the new reel 3, so the method comprises the further steps of rotating cyclically the loading device 10 about the axis X of rotation, in particular horizontal, between a loading position in which the new reel 3 is arranged on the first seat 11, and a position of use in which the terminal end 4 of the new reel 3 is picked up, in particular manually or automatically. In particular, when the loading device 10 is moved from the loading position to the position of use, by means of the pick-up device a further new reel 3 is made available to be loaded onto the empty seat 11 facing the pick-up device in order to be subsequently loaded onto the loading unit 5.

[0050] Advantageously, but not limitedly, according to what previously described, the conveying device 7 defines a closed conveying path PC between the receiving station SR and the delivery station SD. The conveying device 7 comprises two conveying means 13, in particular chains, arranged parallel to and spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the method comprises the further steps of moving, in particular manually (such as, for example, a crank like the one illustrated in the accompanying figures) or semi-automatically (such as, for example, the set consisting of a crank and a driving toothed pinion configured to rotate about its axis driven by a drive, in particular an electric one) or automatically, by means of at least one drive device 14 (in particular, by means of the same drive device 14), both conveying means 13, in particular at least partially simultaneously, along the conveying path PC.

[0051] Advantageously, in the illustrated (non-limiting) embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: retaining, in particular by means of a releasable adhesive connection, by at least one retaining means 15 of the threading unit 6, the terminal end 4 of the new reel 3; and moving the retaining means 15, which extends transversally, in particular orthogonally, between the two conveying means 13 to which it is rigidly connected.

[0052] Advantageously, but not limitedly, in case the retaining means 15 are two, they are arranged such that the step of moving the retaining means 15 comprises the sub-steps of arranging the first retaining means 15 in the receiving station SR, when the second retaining means 15 is in the delivery station SD, and vice versa.

[0053] The machine 2 and the method described so far have a plurality of advantages.

[0054] Firstly, the machine 2 and method described so far allow to increase the amount of material actually available at a manufacturing machine MP or a packaging machine MC compared to what currently happens. The storage station SS is provided to accommodate a plurality (e.g., more than five reels 3).

[0055] The machine 2 also allows to deliver the terminal end 4 automatically, without the operator having to manually intervene in order to drag the web N along the advancement path PA.

[0056] Specifically, at the same time (simultaneously) it allows to facilitate the feeding of the material web N picked up from the new reel 3. Indeed, thanks to the configuration of the advancement path PA and the conveying path PC (which, at least in the area of the central branch 17 of the conveying path PC are substantially parallel, in particular superimposed to each other), it is possible to feed in a simple and reliable manner the terminal end 4 to a delivery station SD arranged far away and without the same being visible from the receiving station SR.

[0057] In addition, it allows to easily change the spatial location of the delivery station SD without requiring a change in the layout of plant 1 (i.e. a new positioning of the machines 2, MP, MC which are included in plant 1). Indeed, by changing the progression, in particular of the central branch 17, it is possible to reach any place of the plant 1 itself.

[0058] Further, since the central branch 17 typically passes at heights H greater than 2.5 meters, it is possible to avoid, i.e. pass over, (structural and layout) obstacles below the branch 17 itself. At the same time, since the delivery station SD is typically at human height, the operator can easily remove the end 4 without the aid of lifting means, such as, for example, ladders.

[0059] By providing the machine 2 with two retaining means arranged such that when one of them is in the receiving station SR and the other one is in the delivery station SD, there is not a re-positioning "dead time" of the retaining means in the receiving station SR.

[0060] In addition, in case the conveying means 13 are two (as in the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures), it is possible to guide the material web N more accurately, avoiding displacements.LIST OF THE REFERENCE NUMERALS OF THE FIGURES

[0061] 1plant 2machine 3reel 4terminal end 5loading unit 6threading unit 7conveying device 8feeding channel 10loading device 11seats 12deflection unit 13conveying means 14drive device 15retaining means 16ascending branch 17central branch 18descending branch 19deflection elements 20deflection element DAadvancement direction Hheight MPmanufacturing machine MCpackaging machine Nmaterial web PAadvancement path PCconveying path SCloading station SRreceiving station SSstorage station SDdelivery station

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]In Figure 2, reference numeral 1 indicates, as a whole, a plant of the tobacco industry. The plant 1 comprises a machine 2 for loading and threading a (new) material web N and at least one machine selected from (non-exhaustive list): a manufacturing machine MP for products of the tobacco industry (such as, for example, continuous rods, pieces of smoking articles or smoking articles) and a packaging machine MC for products of the tobacco industry.

[0017]According to a possible (non-limiting) embodiment, the machine MP is a manufacturing machine for, in particular, smoking articles such as, for example (non-exhaustive list): cigarettes, cigars, small cigars or cigarillos, heatable aerosol-forming articles, electronic-type cigarettes or e-cigs, auxiliary products such as filters, e-cigs refills, and other tobacco-based products or tobacco-alternative or substitute components

[0018]According to a further possible alternative embodiment, the machine MC is a packaging machine, in part...

Claims

1. A machine (2) for loading and threading a material web (N) for a manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) of the tobacco industry; wherein the machine (2) is configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from at least another machine (MC; MP) of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1); the machine (2) for loading and threading comprises: a loading unit (5) configured to accommodate a reel (3) of material web (N) at a loading station (SC); and a threading unit (6) configured to receive at a receiving station (SR) a terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the reel (3) accommodated by the loading unit (5); the threading unit (6) comprises a conveying device (7) configured to move the terminal end (4) from the receiving station (SR) to a delivery station (SD) at which the terminal end (4) is deliverable to the other machine (MP, MC) of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) of the tobacco industry.

2. The machine (2) according to claim 1, comprising: a storage station (SS) at which a plurality of reels (3) is provided; and a pick-up device, in particular an automatic one, configured to pick up at least one reel (3) at the storage station (SS) and to move it to the loading station (SC).

3. The machine (2) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the loading unit (5) comprises a loading device (10), arranged in particular vertically, and provided with two seats (11), preferably two horizontally arranged pins, the first seat (11) being configured to accommodate the new reel (3) and the second seat (11) being configured to accommodate the reel (3) currently in use and to be replaced with the new reel (3); the loading device (10) is configured to rotate cyclically about an axis (X) of rotation, in particular horizontal, between a loading position in which the new reel (3) is arranged on the first seat (11), and a position of use in which, by rotating the loading device (10), the reel (3) is brought to the position previously occupied by the reel (3).

4. The machine (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conveying device (7) defines a closed conveying path (PC) between the receiving station (SR) and the delivery station (SD), the conveying device (7) comprising two conveying means (13), in particular chains, arranged parallel to and spaced apart from each other and both configured to move along the conveying path (PC).

5. The machine (2) according to claim 4, comprising at least one drive device (14) that is configured to move, in particular manually or semi-automatically or automatically, both conveying means (13), in particular at least partially simultaneously.

6. The machine (2) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: the threading unit (6) comprises at least one retaining means (15) configured to retain the terminal end (4) of the new reel (3); the at least one retaining means (15) extends transversally, in particular orthogonally, between the two conveying means (13) to which it is rigidly connected and with which it is configured to move, in particular integrally.

7. The machine (2) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one retaining means (15) is flat; the at least one retaining means (15) is configured to retain the terminal end (4) by means of a releasable adhesive connection, in particular it is configured to accommodate a piece of adhesive tape.

8. The machine (2) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the retaining means (15) are two and are arranged such that, when the first retaining means (15) is in the receiving station (SR), the second retaining means (15) is in the delivery station (SD), and vice versa.

9. The machine (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conveying device (7) comprises at least one indication means, in particular a notch, configured to indicate the position along the conveying path (PC), in particular the arrival, of the at least one retaining means (15).

10. The machine (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein between the receiving station (SR) and the delivery station (SD) the conveying path (PC) comprises an ascending branch (16), in particular vertical or inclined with respect to the vertical, a central branch (17), in particular horizontal, and a descending branch (18), in particular vertical or inclined with respect to the vertical; wherein the central branch (17) extends to a height (H), in particular a measurement measured vertically between the bearing plane of the machine (2) itself and the central branch (17), which is in particular greater than 2.5 meters.

11. A manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) for the tobacco industry comprising: at least one machine selected from: a manufacturing machine (MP) for products of the tobacco industry and a packaging machine (MC) for products of the tobacco industry; and a machine (2) for loading and threading a new material web (N) made in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A method for loading and threading a new material web (N) for a manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) of the tobacco industry; wherein the loading and threading of the new web (N) are performed with a machine (2) configured to be arranged separately and spaced apart from the at least another machine (MP; MC) of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1); wherein the method for loading and threading comprises the steps of: loading a new reel (3) of material web (N) at a loading station (SC); providing, at a receiving station (SR), one terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the reel (3) accommodated by the loading unit (5); and move the terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the receiving station (SR) to a delivery station (SD) at which the terminal end (4) is deliverable to the other machine (MP, MC) of the manufacturing and / or packaging plant (1) of the tobacco industry.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the steps of: providing in a storage station (SS) a plurality of reels (3); picking up, in particular automatically, by means of a pick-up device at least one reel (3) at the storage station (SS); and move by means of the pick-up device at least one reel (3) to the loading station (SC).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the step of moving the terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the receiving station (SR) to a delivery station (SD) is performed by moving, in particular manually or semi-automatically or automatically, conveying means (13), in particular at least partially simultaneously, along a closed conveying path (PC) between the receiving station (SR) and the delivery station (SD).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, prior to the step of moving the terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the receiving station (SR) to the delivery station (SD), the method comprises the step of retaining, in particular by means of a releasable adhesive connection, by at least one retaining means (15) of the threading unit (6), the terminal end (4) of the new reel (3); wherein the step of moving the terminal end (4) of the material web (N) from the receiving station (SR) to the delivery station (SD) comprises the step of moving the retaining means (15), which extends transversally, in particular orthogonally, between the two conveying means (13) to which it is rigidly connected.

16. The method according to claim 15, comprising the steps of: providing two retaining means (15) and arranging them such that the step of moving the retaining means (15) comprises the sub-steps of arranging the first retaining means (15) in the receiving station (SR), when the second retaining means (15) is in the delivery station (SD), and vice versa.

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