Arrangement of aerosol-generating items to form an increased number of hoppers

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (1) for forming an array (17) of rod-shaped articles (11), in particular aerosol-generating articles, the apparatus comprising a movable pocket (7) adapted to accommodate an array (17) having a plurality of layers (18) or rod-shaped articles (11), a plurality of hoppers (12) forming a reservoir for the rod-shaped articles (11), each hopper (12) adapted to provide a respective moving set of rod-shaped articles (11) to the array (17), and a control system configured to control the relative movement of the pockets (7) with respect to the hoppers (12), the pockets (7) being adapted to be disposed next to each hopper (12) thereby enabling movement of respective moving sets of rod-like articles (11) from their respective hoppers (12) to the pockets (7), the cumulative number of rod-like articles (11) in all moving sets being greater than the number of rod-like articles (11) in the array, the apparatus (1) comprising a plurality of pockets (7) movable independently of one another. The invention further relates to a method for forming an array (17) of rod-like articles (11), and a method for forming an array (17) of rod-like articles (11).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles and to a method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles. [Background technology]

[0002] WO2020035824A1 and WO2020035786A1 disclose a transport assembly for rod-shaped articles. The rod-shaped articles are moved from a container to a transport section by a drum and then folded to create a double layer arrangement.

[0003] EP 3356235 B1 discloses an apparatus with a hopper having three sets of channels. Dividing elements are used to distribute specific types of goods to specific vanes of the hopper.

[0004] EP 1 626 003 A1 discloses an apparatus with a hopper for holding rod-shaped articles, which are each forced into openings in a mandrel and thence into alignment pockets.

[0005] WO2014015940A1 discloses an apparatus in which multiple feeders are positioned above multiple hoppers to feed articles into the hoppers in a specific distribution. The articles are then transferred to pockets to form rows in one or more layers.

[0006] US Patents 9,882,520 B2 and 9,828,179 B2 disclose the use of electromagnetic tracks to transport the carriers.

[0007] There is a need to improve the efficiency and reliability of forming arrays of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles. The apparatus comprises a movable pocket. The pocket is adapted to accommodate an array of rod-shaped articles having a plurality of layers. The array has a plurality of layers of rod-shaped articles. The array may have at least two layers of rod-shaped articles. The apparatus further comprises a plurality of hoppers forming a reservoir for the rod-shaped articles. The hoppers may be structures in which the rod-shaped articles are collected and aligned. Each hopper is adapted to provide a respective moving set of rod-shaped articles to the array. The apparatus further comprises a control system configured to control the relative movement of the pocket with respect to the hoppers. The control system may be configured to move the pocket. The control system may be configured to move the hoppers independently of each other. The pockets are adapted to be positioned next to each hopper and are capable of moving a respective moving set of rod-shaped articles from the respective hopper to the pocket. The cumulative number of rod-shaped articles in all moving sets is greater than the number of rod-shaped articles in the array.

[0009] The apparatus may comprise a plurality of pockets, specifically at least two pockets, specifically at least five pockets, specifically at least ten pockets. The apparatus may comprise a plurality of pockets movable independently of one another, specifically along a track. The pockets may be independently movable along a track of the transport system. The apparatus may comprise a first pocket and a second pocket. The pockets may be independently movable independently of one another, specifically along a track. The control system may be configured to move the pockets independently of one another. The pockets may be vertically movable independently of one another. The pockets may be horizontally movable independently of one another. The pockets may be horizontally movable independently of one another and may be vertically movable independently of one another. Vertical may refer to a direction substantially perpendicular to the extension of the layers of the collating. Horizontal may refer to a direction substantially parallel to the extension of the layers of the collating. The control system may be configured to vertically position the pockets independently of one another with respect to the hoppers. The control system may be configured to independently adjust the vertical position of each pocket depending on the respective hopper to which the next set of movements is moved to the respective pocket. The control system can be configured to horizontally position the pockets independently of one another relative to the hoppers. The control system can be configured to independently adjust the horizontal position of each pocket depending on the respective hopper to which the next set of movements is moved to that respective pocket.

[0010] The pockets may be grouped into groups of pockets. Pockets within a group of pockets may move together. Groups of pockets may be movable independently of one another. The control system can be configured to move groups of pockets independently of one another. The features described above with respect to independent movement of individual pockets can be applied to the independent movement of individual groups of pockets.

[0011] The number of rod-like articles in each respective moving set may be less than the total number of rod-like articles in the array. The array may be formed by at least two moving sets. When an array is moved from multiple hoppers, the total number of rod-like articles in the array may be the number of rod-like articles in the array. The total number of rod-like articles in the array may be the maximum number of rod-like articles that can fit in a pocket.

[0012] An arrangement may refer to a set of completed layers of rod-like articles. An arrangement may refer to an arrangement of rod-like articles. An arrangement may be subsequently contained in a package, in particular a package may be formed around the arrangement. An arrangement may comprise a plurality of layers. A layer may extend primarily in a first horizontal direction. An extension of a layer may refer to a direction in which the rod-like articles are arranged adjacent to one another. The rod-like articles of a layer may extend primarily in a second horizontal direction, in particular perpendicular to the first horizontal direction. Two adjacent layers may be stacked on top of one another in a vertical direction. Other orientations are also possible. For example, the rod-like articles in an arrangement may extend primarily in a vertical direction. The rod-like articles may be inclined relative to the vertical or horizontal direction. The rod-like articles may be inclined relative to the vertical and horizontal directions. An extension of a layer may be inclined relative to the vertical or horizontal direction. An extension of a layer may be inclined relative to the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0013] The layers of the arrangement may extend mainly in a direction substantially parallel to the transport direction of the pockets. The transport direction may be a direction in which the carrier on which the pockets are mounted, and thus the pockets, may be transported along the track. The transport direction may vary along the track. The orientation of the rod-like articles may vary along the track. The rod-like articles of a layer may extend mainly perpendicular to the extension line of the layer. Two adjacent layers may be stacked on top of each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the transport direction of the pockets.

[0014] An arrangement may have a particular arrangement type. The type may be defined by the number of layers in the arrangement or the number of articles per layer. The type may be defined by the number of layers in the arrangement and the number of articles per layer. The type may be defined by an offset between adjacent layers. Different layers may contain different numbers of articles. Any type of arrangement may be formed using the apparatus according to the invention.

[0015] The hopper may in particular be understood as an assembly with a group of vanes, which collects and arranges the rod-shaped articles and moves them into the pockets. The rod-shaped articles may be fed into the hopper using a conveyor, in particular a mass flow conveyor, a box or other transport unit. The rod-shaped articles may be fed to the hopper directly from a machine which produces the rod-shaped articles. A buffer system may be arranged between the machine which produces the rod-shaped articles and one or more of the hoppers.

[0016] The hoppers may originate from a common vessel or structure and feed multiple hoppers simultaneously. The common vessel or structure may act as a buffer system. Alternatively, the multiple hoppers may be completely separate structures and therefore feed multiple hoppers individually. Combinations of multiple hoppers may also be possible. For example, two hoppers may originate from a common structure and a third hopper may be separate and constitute an independent structure. The separate hoppers may be fed with the same or different types of goods.

[0017] When the rod-shaped articles are conveyed to the hopper, they may be damaged by friction between themselves or between the articles and parts of the device. Defects may occur, such as deformation of the article, breakage of the article, loss of material in the article, wrinkles on the surface of the article, or displacement of the article. The hopper may also be prone to clogging.

[0018] If the total number of rod-like articles in all moving sets is greater than the number of rod-like articles in the array, then a redundant system may result.

[0019] The number of rod-like articles in all moving sets is greater than the number of rod-like articles in the row. The rod-like articles can become stuck in the first hopper. If a defect occurs or if the first hopper is stuck, the control system can place a pocket next to the second hopper. The rod-like articles can then be moved from the moving set of the second hopper. The first stuck hopper can be removed in the meantime. Such an arrangement also allows cleaning of the hoppers without interrupting production, which can also increase the efficiency of the device.

[0020] Each of the moving sets can correspond to one or more layers in the array, and each hopper can be adapted to move one or more layers of rod-shaped articles in the array.

[0021] At least two of the hoppers may be adapted to provide a redundant moving set. During normal operation, the redundant moving set may not be required to satisfy the alignment. In the event of a defect or blockage, the redundant moving set can move rod-like articles in place of the moving set in which the defect or blockage occurs.

[0022] The number of hoppers may be greater than the number of layers in the array.

[0023] Having more hoppers than the number of layers in the arrangement can result in a redundant system. If a defect occurs or if a hopper is clogged, the control system can position the pocket next to another hopper. The clogged hopper can be removed in the meantime. Such a configuration also allows for cleaning of the hoppers without interrupting production. This can also increase the efficiency of the equipment.

[0024] The arrangement may comprise one tier and may be provided with at least two hoppers. The arrangement may comprise two tiers and may be provided with at least three hoppers. The arrangement may comprise three tiers and may be provided with at least four hoppers. The arrangement may comprise four tiers and may be provided with at least five hoppers.

[0025] The number of hoppers may be at least two more than the number of layers of the array, for example, the array may have two layers and the number of hoppers may be at least four, such a configuration may add an additional redundant layer, which may increase the overall efficiency of the device.

[0026] The hopper may include one or more vanes. Each vane may be adapted to deliver a single rod-like article to a predetermined position in the array. The vanes may align the rod-like articles in a single row or line. The vanes may be separated by walls. The walls may facilitate alignment of the rod-like articles. The rod-like articles may move into the vanes by gravity, air currents, or vibration.

[0027] The control system can detect a fault condition in the hopper, such as a jam. The control system can then prevent the hopper from transferring rod-like articles from the hopper to the pockets, at least until the hopper is again operational. The hopper fault condition can be corrected while the apparatus can continue to operate.

[0028] The control system can also detect a fault condition in one of the vanes of the hoppers and can prevent that vane from transferring rod-like articles therefrom to the pockets.

[0029] Each hopper may include a plunger that may be moved to an operating position to prevent rod-shaped articles from being fed into the hopper or one or more vanes. The plunger may close the hopper or one or more vanes, thereby allowing fault conditions in the hopper or hopper vanes to be easily corrected. This also allows the hopper to be easily cleaned.

[0030] At least one hopper of the plurality of hoppers and the pocket may be adapted to allow relative movement between at least a portion of the hopper and the pocket. The direction of relative movement may be perpendicular to the extension of the lining layer. A component of the movement direction may be perpendicular to the extension of the lining layer. In particular, the movement direction may be perpendicular to and along the extension of the lining layer. The movement direction may be perpendicular to a track adjacent to the hopper. The lining layer may extend substantially parallel to the track adjacent to the hopper. The lining layer may extend substantially horizontally. The relative movement between at least a portion of the hopper and the pocket may be vertical.

[0031] At least a portion of one or more of the plurality of hoppers may be movable substantially orthogonally, specifically vertically, relative to a line of extension of the tier of the array, specifically horizontal. At least a portion of one or more of the plurality of hoppers may be movable orthogonally to a track adjacent the respective hopper.

[0032] At least one of the multiple hoppers and the pocket may be adapted to allow relative movement between at least a portion of the hopper and the pocket in a direction substantially parallel to an extension of the layers of the arrangement, specifically in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0033] At least a portion of one or more of the plurality of hoppers may be movable in a direction substantially parallel to an extension of the layers of the arrangement, specifically in a substantially horizontal direction. At least a portion of one or more of the plurality of hoppers may be movable parallel to a track adjacent to the respective hopper.

[0034] Only the pockets may be movable. Only the hopper may be movable. Both the hopper and the pockets may be movable. Only a portion of the hopper may be movable, specifically the portion where the items are pushed into the pockets. This may be more energy efficient compared to moving the entire hopper.

[0035] Each hopper may be equipped with an insertion device capable of pushing one or more rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket.

[0036] The insertion device may be adapted to push a moving set of rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket. The insertion device may be adapted to push one or more layers of rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket. The insertion device may comprise a pusher. The insertion device may comprise multiple pushers. The insertion device may be adapted to selectively push rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket.

[0037] The insertion device may be adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially perpendicular to an extension of the layers of the lining. The insertion device may be adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially vertical. The insertion device may be adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially parallel to an extension of the layers of the lining. The insertion device may be adjustable relative to the hopper in a substantially horizontal direction. The insertion device may be adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially perpendicular to a track adjacent to the respective hopper. The insertion device may be adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially parallel to a track adjacent to the respective hopper. The insertion device may be adjustable in multiple directions.

[0038] The apparatus may comprise a conveying system. The conveying system may comprise a track. The track may be a rail or a conveyor. The pocket may be adapted to move along the track. The conveying system may transport the pocket from the hopper to the packaging unit. The conveying system may comprise an electromagnetic conveyor.

[0039] The pockets may be movable independently of one another along the track. Different pockets may move at different speeds along the track. Multiple pockets may also move synchronously.

[0040] The pocket or pockets may be removably disposed on a carrier. The carrier may be disposed on a track. The carrier may be removable from the track. The carrier may be movable along the track. Removable pockets may allow cleaning of the pockets during production, which may also increase the efficiency of the apparatus. The carrier may be motorized.

[0041] The transport system may include a linear motor.

[0042] The conveying system may be adapted to move the carriers at individual speeds. The carriers may be movable independently of each other along the track. Different carriers may move at different speeds along the track. Multiple carriers on the conveying system may be adjusted according to the speed of the carriers. Multiple carriers may be moved synchronously. The speed of the carriers may be changed along the track. The speed of the carriers may be adjusted according to a predetermined speed profile. For example, the carriers may slow down and stop at the feeder units and the packaging units and may accelerate between them. The carriers may move at a maximum speed in the range of 5 meters / s to 30 meters / s, specifically 25 meters / s.

[0043] The transport system may include at least one junction. The junction may allow the pockets or carriers to be moved to a spur or other track. The spur or other track may be used for storage, quality control, cleaning, or other maintenance. Moving the pockets or carriers from the main production track may allow cleaning or repair of the pockets or carriers while they are still in production.

[0044] At least two pockets may have different interior geometries from one another. Pockets with different interior geometries may be suitable for accommodating different types of alignments. The use of pockets with different interior geometries may allow different alignments to be manufactured simultaneously. Such a configuration may increase manufacturing efficiency as no pocket switching step is required.

[0045] The guy lines can potentially store carriers with pockets of styles not currently in use. Storing carriers with pockets on the guy lines can save time when production is switched to a different alignment style because the pockets do not have to be removed from the carriers and later reattached to the carriers.

[0046] The apparatus may comprise a packaging unit. The packaging unit may be adapted to form a package around the array of rod-like articles. The array can be transferred to the packaging unit where the package is formed around the array. Alternatively, the array may be transferred to an already completed package.

[0047] The packaging unit may include a pusher for transferring the rows from the pocket to the packaging unit. The empty pockets may then be returned to the hopper.

[0048] A conveying system may connect the hopper to the packaging unit. The arrangement can be conveyed from the hopper to the packaging unit by movable pockets.

[0049] The apparatus may also include two or more packaging units. The packaging units may be connected to the hopper by a conveying system. The use of multiple packaging units may increase the overall production rate of the apparatus.

[0050] The packaging units are adapted to transfer arrangements of the same type to the respective packaging units and can form a package around said arrangements. A first packaging unit may be adapted to transfer an arrangement of a different type from a second packaging unit. The first packaging unit may be adapted to transfer an arrangement of a first type and the second packaging unit may be adapted to transfer an arrangement of a second type, the second type being different from the first type. Different arrangement types may require different packages. Different packaging units may be adapted to form different packages. A first packaging unit may be adapted to form a package around an arrangement of a first type, for example an arrangement of three layers with seven articles each. A second packaging unit may be adapted to form a package around an arrangement of a second type, for example an arrangement of two layers with ten articles each. This allows different arrangement types to be produced simultaneously without the need to adjust the packaging units.

[0051] The apparatus may comprise an inspection system. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket. The inspection system may detect the number of rod-like articles in the alignment. The inspection system may be adapted to detect visually recognizable defects of the rod-like articles in the alignment or the alignment itself. Conveying the articles on the conveyor or feeding them into the hopper may damage the articles, in particular due to friction between different articles or between the articles and the apparatus. The inspection system may check the integrity of the alignment on the pocket, in particular the shape and presence. The inspection system may check other product quality parameters, in particular loose ends, missing filters, or visual defects. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket during the movement of the pocket. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket at the quality control station. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket as it passes through the quality control station. The inspection system may be configured to detect various defects, such as deformation of the article, loss of material in the article, wrinkles on the surface of the article, or misalignment of the article. The inspection system may be on the main track of the conveying system or on a branch of the conveying system. The quality control station may be on the main track of the conveying system or on a branch of the conveying system.

[0052] The inspection system may be configured to reject the bad alignments.The inspection system may be configured to move the bad alignments to a reject station.

[0053] The apparatus may comprise a cleaning system. The cleaning system may be adapted to clean the empty pockets. The cleaning system may be adapted to automatically clean the empty pockets. The cleaning system may be on a main track of the transport system or on a branch of the transport system.

[0054] Each pocket may be provided with an identifier. The identifier may be attached to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket, or applied, particularly painted, to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket. The identifier may be a visual marker, such as a barcode or QR code, a microchip, such as an RFID tag, or the like.

[0055] The device may comprise an identification device. The identification device may be adapted to identify each pocket, in particular based on the identifier on the pocket. The identification device may be a scanner, in particular an RFID scanner or an optical scanner, for example a barcode or QR code scanner. An RFID scanner may also be called an RFID reader.

[0056] The identification device may be located in or near a feeder unit, in or near a packaging unit, in or near a cleaning system, in or near an inspection system, or along a track.

[0057] The apparatus may comprise a plurality of identification devices, at least one identification device may be arranged in the feeder units, in particular in each feeder unit, and at least one identification device may be arranged in the packaging units, in particular in each packaging unit.

[0058] An identification device can be used to identify each pocket based on an identifier on the pocket. The identifier can be used to associate the pocket with a physical characteristic of the pocket. The physical characteristic of the pocket may refer to the type of rod-shaped article, the type of arrangement, the dimensions, the number of rod-shaped articles in the arrangement, the number of layers in the arrangement, or a combination thereof. The identifier can be used to associate the pocket with the contents of the pocket. The identifier can be used to track the rod-shaped articles. The identifier can be used to ensure or confirm that the pocket is delivered to a desired station. The identifier can be used to select a route for the pocket to a packing unit. The identifier can be used to confirm that the correct pocket or arrangement has reached the packing unit. The identifier can be used to confirm that the correct pocket and arrangement has reached the packing unit.

[0059] This device may reduce lead times and minimize ongoing operations. This may be beneficial for products that are sensitive to humidity and environmental conditions, particularly products that contain hygroscopic materials or gels that contain volatile substances or flavors. This device allows for easy changeover of the type of article being treated. This device may reduce cleaning times.

[0060] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles, comprising the steps of providing a pocket and a feeder unit comprising a set of hoppers, and a number of transfer steps for forming the array, each transfer step comprising positioning the pocket next to a hopper of the set of hoppers and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from said hopper to the pocket, the number of hoppers in the set of hoppers being greater than the number of transfer steps.

[0061] The hoppers can move independently of one another, in particular vertically.

[0062] The method may include providing a plurality of pockets, the pockets being independently movable, particularly along a track. The pockets may be movable along a track of a conveying system. The alignment may be formed within one of the plurality of pockets. Each moving step may include positioning the pocket next to a hopper of a set of hoppers and moving at least one rod-shaped article from the hopper to the pocket.

[0063] The method may also form a plurality of rows of rod-like articles, specifically a first row and a second row. A feeder unit may be provided comprising a first pocket, a second pocket, and a set of hoppers. The first pocket may move independently of the second pocket, specifically along a track. The second pocket may move independently of the first pocket, specifically along a track. The first and second pockets may move independently of each other. The first and second pockets may move vertically independently of each other. The first and second pockets may move horizontally independently of each other. The first and second pockets may move independently of each other relative to the set of hoppers, specifically vertically relative to the set of hoppers.

[0064] A plurality of first arrangement transfer steps may be performed to form a first arrangement. Each first arrangement transfer step may include positioning a first pocket next to a hopper of the set of hoppers and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from the hopper to the first pocket. The number of hoppers in the set of hoppers may be greater than the number of first arrangement transfer steps.

[0065] A plurality of second arrangement transfer steps may be performed to form the second arrangement. Each second arrangement transfer step may include positioning a second pocket adjacent to a hopper of the set of hoppers and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from the hopper to the second pocket. The number of hoppers in the set of hoppers may be greater than the number of second arrangement transfer steps.

[0066] The steps of the methods described above may be performed in any particular order.

[0067] The method may also be used to form first, second and third alignments for the first, second and third pockets, respectively. The first, second and third pockets may be moved independently of each other.

[0068] The method may also be used to form first, second, third and fourth alignments for the first, second, third and fourth pockets, respectively. The first, second, third and fourth pockets may move independently of each other.

[0069] The following description applies to all the above-mentioned methods, i.e., the method for forming a single arrangement, the method for forming a multiple arrangement, or the method for forming a first arrangement and a second arrangement. The term arrangement may also refer to any of the arrangements defined in the method for forming a multiple arrangement, i.e., the first arrangement, the second arrangement, the third arrangement, or the fourth arrangement. The term pocket may also refer to any of the pockets defined in the method for forming a multiple arrangement, i.e., the first pocket, the second pocket, the third pocket, or the fourth pocket. The term transfer step may also refer to any of the transfer steps defined in the method for forming a multiple arrangement, i.e., the first arrangement transfer step, the second arrangement transfer step, the third arrangement transfer step, or the fourth arrangement transfer step.

[0070] The arrangement may comprise one or more layers of rod-shaped articles. A portion of a layer may be moved during the moving step. An entire layer may be moved during the moving step. Multiple layers may be moved during the moving step. The moving steps can be combined in any order to form the desired arrangement.

[0071] For example, two layers may be moved in the first moving step, one layer may be moved in the second moving step, or a portion of a layer may be moved in the first moving step, a portion of a layer may be moved in the second moving step, and the entire layer may be moved in the third moving step.

[0072] Such an arrangement could potentially create an array with different types of items, for example one item or one layer within the array could have a different flavor or texture.

[0073] The number of rod-shaped articles moved in each moving step may be less than the total number of rod-shaped articles in the arrangement.

[0074] Each hopper may comprise an insertion device capable of pushing one or more rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket during the moving process. The insertion device may comprise one or more pushers. The insertion device may be adapted to selectively push the rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket.

[0075] Having a larger number of hoppers than the number of transfer steps can lead to a redundant method. Rod-like goods can cause clogging of the hoppers. If a hopper is clogged, the transfer steps can be performed with another hopper. The clogged hopper can be removed in the meantime. Such an arrangement also allows cleaning of the hoppers without interrupting production. This can also increase the efficiency of the device.

[0076] The method may include one transfer step and at least two hoppers may be provided. The method may include two transfer steps and at least three hoppers may be provided. The method may include three transfer steps and at least four hoppers may be provided. The method may include four transfer steps and at least five hoppers may be provided.

[0077] The number of hoppers may be at least two more than the number of transfer stages. For example, the number of transfer stages may be two and the number of hoppers may be at least four. Such a configuration adds another layer of redundancy, which may increase the overall efficiency of the method.

[0078] Each transfer step may be performed using a separate hopper from the set of hoppers, and each transfer step may transfer at least one layer of the rod-shaped articles from the hopper to the pocket.

[0079] Each pocket may be provided with an identifier. The identifier may be attached to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket, or applied, particularly painted, to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket. The identifier may be a visual marker, such as a barcode or QR code, a microchip, such as an RFID tag, or the like.

[0080] The method may include one or more steps of identifying the pocket based on the identifier on the pocket. An identification device may be used to identify the pocket. The identification device may be specifically adapted to identify the pocket based on the identifier on the pocket. The identification device may be a scanner, specifically an RFID scanner or an optical scanner, such as a barcode or QR code scanner.

[0081] The method may further include associating a physical characteristic of the pocket with an identifier on the pocket. The physical characteristic of the pocket may refer to the type of article, the type of arrangement, the dimensions, the number of rod-like articles in the arrangement, the number of layers in the arrangement, or a combination thereof. The identifier may be used to associate the pocket with the contents of the pocket.

[0082] The method may further include conveying the pocket to a packing unit, which may be selected based on the identifier on the pocket. The identifier may be used to select a conveyance path for the pocket to the packing unit. The identifier may be used to track the rod-like article. The identifier may be used to ensure or confirm that the pocket is delivered to a desired station.

[0083] The method may further include verifying that the correct pocket has been delivered to the packaging unit based on the identifier on the pocket.

[0084] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising the steps of sequentially arranging a pocket, particularly a first pocket, adjacent a first set of hoppers, and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from each hopper of the first set of hoppers to a pocket, particularly the first pocket, to form a first array. Then, sequentially arranging a pocket, particularly a second pocket, adjacent a second set of hoppers, and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from each hopper of the second set of hoppers to a pocket, particularly the second pocket, to form a second array. The second set of hoppers comprises at least one hopper not included in the first set of hoppers.

[0085] In this particular aspect of the invention, the terms first pocket and second pocket may refer to the same pocket at different times. For example, a first array may be formed within a pocket, referred to as the first pocket. After the first array is removed from the pocket, a second array may be formed within the pocket, now referred to as the second pocket.

[0086] Each set of hoppers may include at least two or three hoppers. The first set of hoppers may include at least two hoppers and the second set of hoppers may include at least three hoppers. The second set of hoppers may include at least three hoppers and the first set of hoppers may include at least two hoppers. The first set of hoppers may include two hoppers and the second set of hoppers may include three hoppers. The second set of hoppers may include two hoppers and the first set of hoppers may include three hoppers. The first set of hoppers and the second set of hoppers may share one common hopper. The first set of hoppers and the second set of hoppers may share two common hoppers. The first set of hoppers and the second set of hoppers may share three common hoppers.

[0087] A first arrangement is formed in a first pocket by hoppers of a first set of hoppers, e.g., the first hopper, the second hopper, and the third hopper. A jam may occur in one of the hoppers of the first set of hoppers, e.g., the third hopper, after the first arrangement is formed. Then, another hopper not included in the first set of hoppers, e.g., the fourth hopper, may replace the jammed hopper and define a second set of hoppers together with the remaining hoppers of the first set of hoppers. Then, a second arrangement is formed in a second pocket by hoppers of a second set of hoppers, e.g., the first hopper, the second hopper, and the fourth hopper. The first pocket and the second pocket may be the same pocket.

[0088] The first set of hoppers may comprise a first hopper and a second hopper.The second set of hoppers may comprise a first hopper and a third hopper.

[0089] The first set of hoppers may include a first hopper, a second hopper, and a third hopper.The second set of hoppers may include a first hopper, a second hopper, and a fourth hopper.

[0090] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles. The apparatus comprises a transport system having one or more movable pockets. The apparatus further comprises at least one feeder unit. The feeder unit is adapted to feed an array of rod-shaped articles to the pocket. The apparatus further comprises two or more packaging units. Each packaging unit is adapted to form a package around the array of rod-shaped articles.

[0091] Such a configuration may reduce lead times and minimize ongoing operations. This may be beneficial for products that are sensitive to humidity and environmental conditions, particularly those that contain hygroscopic materials or gels that contain volatile substances or flavors. This equipment may allow for more frequent changeover of brand production. This equipment may reduce cleaning times and reduce the risk of contamination between different brands produced in succession.

[0092] The feeder unit may comprise one or more hoppers forming a storage for the rod-shaped goods. A hopper may in particular be understood as a container with a set of vanes, which collects and places the rod-shaped goods and moves them into pockets. The rod-shaped goods may be fed into the hopper using a conveyor, in particular a mass flow conveyor, a box or other transport unit. The rod-shaped goods may be fed to the hopper directly from a machine which produces the rod-shaped goods. A buffer system may be arranged between the machine which produces the rod-shaped goods and the hopper.

[0093] The apparatus may comprise a plurality of feeder units. A first feeder unit may be adapted to feed a first arrangement to the pocket. A second feeder unit may be adapted to feed a second arrangement to the pocket. The first arrangement may be different from the second arrangement.

[0094] The first arrangement may be of a different format than the second arrangement, and the first arrangement may include a different type of rod-like article than the second arrangement, allowing multiple different products to be produced simultaneously without stopping production.

[0095] The conveying system may comprise a track and may couple the feeder unit to the packaging unit. The conveying system may couple the feeder unit to the packaging unit. The conveying system may comprise an electromagnetic conveyor.

[0096] Multiple products may be manufactured and fed to a destination feeder unit and transported to a desired packaging unit. Multiple packaging units may be coupled to a single feeder unit. Multiple feeder units may be coupled to a single packaging unit. Each feeder unit may be coupled to each packaging unit.

[0097] Pockets may be movable independently of other pockets along the track between one or more feeder units and the packaging unit. Different pockets may move at different speeds along the track. Multiple pockets may also move synchronously. The speed of the pockets may be adjusted according to a predetermined speed profile. For example, pockets may slow down and stop at the feeder units and the packaging unit and speed up between them.

[0098] The pocket or pockets may be removably disposed on a carrier. The carrier may be disposed on a track. The carrier may be removable from the track. The carrier may be movable along the track. Removable pockets may allow cleaning of the pockets during production, which may also improve the efficiency of the apparatus.

[0099] The carrier may be automatically attachable to the track. The carrier may be automatically detachable from the track. The one or more pockets may be automatically attachable to the carrier. The one or more pockets may be automatically detachable from the carrier. The transport system may be configured to automatically attach and detach the carrier to and from the track. The transport system may be configured to automatically attach and detach the one or more pockets to and from the carrier.

[0100] The transport system may include a linear motor.

[0101] At least two pockets may have different interior geometries. Pockets with different interior geometries may be suitable for accommodating different types of alignments. By using pockets with different interior geometries, different alignments may be manufactured simultaneously. Such an arrangement may increase manufacturing efficiency since a pocket changeover step is not required.

[0102] The conveying system may comprise a plurality of carriers. The conveying system may be adapted to move the carriers at individual speeds. The carriers may be movable independently of each other along the track. Different carriers may move at different speeds along the track. A plurality of carriers on the conveying system may be adjusted according to the speed of the carriers. The speed of the carriers may be adjusted according to a predetermined speed profile. For example, the carriers may slow down and stop at the feeder units and the packaging units and may accelerate between them. A plurality of carriers may also be moved synchronously. The carriers may move at a maximum speed in the range of 5 meters / s to 30 meters / s, specifically 25 meters / s.

[0103] The transport system may include at least one junction, which may allow the pockets or carriers to be moved to a spur or other track that may be used for storage, quality control, or maintenance. Moving the pockets or carriers from the main production track may allow cleaning or repair of the pockets or carriers while they are still in production.

[0104] The transport system may include one or more branches. Each branch may be associated with at least one packaging unit. There may be more branches than packaging units. The branches may be associated with a cleaning system. The branches may be associated with an inspection system.

[0105] The packaging unit may comprise a pusher for transferring the array from the pocket to the packaging unit. The array is transferred to the packaging unit where a package can be formed around the array. Alternatively, the array may be transferred to an already completed package. Empty pockets may be returned to the feeder unit.

[0106] A transport system may couple the feeder unit to the packaging unit for transferring the array from the feeder unit to the packaging unit by the movable pocket.

[0107] The packaging units may be adapted to form a package around the same type of arrangement. A first packaging unit may be adapted to form a package around a different type of arrangement than a second packaging unit. For example, a first packaging unit may be adapted to form a package around a first type of arrangement, e.g., three layers with seven articles each. A second packaging unit may be adapted to form a package around a second type of arrangement, e.g., two layers with ten articles each.

[0108] The apparatus may comprise an inspection system. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket. The inspection system may detect the number of rod-like articles in the alignment. The inspection system may be adapted to detect visually recognizable defects of the rod-like articles in the alignment or the alignment itself. Conveying the articles on the conveyor or feeding them into the hopper may damage the articles, in particular due to friction between different articles or between the articles and the apparatus. The inspection system may check the integrity of the alignment on the pocket, in particular the shape and presence. The inspection system may check other product quality parameters, in particular loose ends, missing filters, or visual defects. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket during the movement of the pocket. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket at the quality control station. The inspection system may be adapted to detect faulty alignments or rod-like articles in the pocket as it passes through the quality control station.

[0109] The inspection system may be configured to reject faulty alignments. The inspection system may be configured to move faulty alignments to a reject station. The inspection system may be configured to detect various defects, such as deformation of the article, missing material in the article, wrinkles on the surface of the article, or misalignment of the article.

[0110] The apparatus may comprise a cleaning system. The cleaning system may be adapted to clean the empty pockets.

[0111] The apparatus may comprise a central system. The central system may manage the flow of carriers and pockets. The central system may monitor the conveying system and its different branches. The central system may be adapted to route the pockets from the feeder units to the destination packaging units.

[0112] Each pocket may be provided with an identifier. The identifier may be attached to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket, or applied, particularly painted, to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket. The identifier may be a visual marker, such as a barcode or QR code, a microchip, such as an RFID tag, or the like.

[0113] The device may comprise an identification device. The identification device may be adapted to identify each pocket, in particular based on an identifier on the pocket. The identification device may be a scanner, in particular an RFID scanner or an optical scanner, for example a barcode or QR code scanner.

[0114] The identification device may be located in or near a feeder unit, in or near a packaging unit, in or near a cleaning system, in or near an inspection system, or along a track.

[0115] The apparatus may comprise a plurality of identification devices, at least one identification device may be arranged in the feeder units, in particular in each feeder unit, and at least one identification device may be arranged in the packaging units, in particular in each packaging unit.

[0116] An identification device can be used to identify each pocket based on an identifier on the pocket. The identifier can be used to associate the pocket with a physical characteristic of the pocket. The physical characteristic of the pocket may refer to the type of article, the type of arrangement, the dimensions, the number of rod-like articles in the arrangement, the number of layers in the arrangement, or a combination thereof. The identifier can be used to associate the pocket with the contents of the pocket. The identifier can be used to track the rod-like articles. The identifier can be used to ensure or confirm that the pocket is delivered to a desired station. The identifier can be used to select a route for the pocket to a packing unit. The identifier can be used to confirm that the correct pocket or arrangement has reached the packing unit. The identifier can be used to confirm that the correct pocket and arrangement has reached the packing unit.

[0117] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles. The method comprises the steps of moving at least one rod-shaped article into an individually movable pocket of a transport system to form an arrangement. The pocket having the arrangement is then moved to one of two or more packaging units. A package is then formed around the arrangement by the packaging unit. The pocket may be movable independently of other pockets of the transport system.

[0118] The movement of the pocket may depend on the type of arrangement. The packaging unit to which the pocket moves may be selected depending on the type of arrangement.

[0119] The movement of the pockets may depend on the type of rod-like articles in the array. The packaging unit to which the pockets are moved may be selected depending on the type of rod-like articles in the array.

[0120] The package may correspond to a format of ordering.

[0121] Each pocket may be provided with an identifier. The identifier may be attached to the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket, or may be sprayed or painted onto the pocket, particularly to a wall of the pocket. The identifier may be a visual marker, such as a barcode or QR code, a microchip, such as an RFID tag, or the like.

[0122] The method may include one or more steps of identifying the pocket based on the identifier on the pocket. An identification device may be used to identify the pocket. The identification device may be specifically adapted to identify the pocket based on the identifier on the pocket. The identification device may be a scanner, specifically an RFID scanner or an optical scanner, such as a barcode or QR code scanner.

[0123] The method may further include associating a physical characteristic of the pocket with an identifier on the pocket. The physical characteristic of the pocket may refer to the type of article, the type of arrangement, the dimensions, the number of rod-like articles in the arrangement, the number of layers in the arrangement, or a combination thereof. The identifier may be used to associate the pocket with the contents of the pocket.

[0124] The method may further include conveying the pocket to a packing unit, the packing unit being selected based on the identifier on the pocket. The identifier can be used to select a conveyance path for the pocket to the packing unit. The identifier can be used to track the rod-like article. The identifier can be used to ensure or confirm that the pocket is delivered to a desired station.

[0125] The method may further include verifying that the correct pocket has been delivered to the packaging unit based on the identifier on the pocket.

[0126] An apparatus according to the first or fourth aspect of the invention may be used to carry out a method step according to the method of the second, third or fifth aspect of the invention. A method according to the second, third or fifth aspect of the invention may be carried out using an apparatus according to the first or fourth aspect of the invention. EXAMPLES

[0127] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of the other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0128] Example 1: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising a movable pocket, the pocket adapted to accommodate an array having multiple layers of rod-shaped articles, a plurality of hoppers forming a storage section for the rod-shaped articles, each hopper adapted to provide a respective moving set of rod-shaped articles to the array, a control system configured to control the relative movement of the pocket with respect to the hoppers, the pockets being positioned next to each hopper and adapted to enable each moving set of rod-shaped articles to move from each hopper to the pocket, and a cumulative number of rod-shaped articles in all the moving sets being greater than the number of rod-shaped articles in the array. Example 2: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 1, wherein each moving set corresponds to one or more layers in the array. Example 3: 3. An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in example 1 or 2, wherein at least two hoppers are adapted to provide redundant moving sets. Example 4: Apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the number of hoppers is greater than the number of layers in the array. Example 5: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the array comprises two layers and at least three hoppers are provided. Example 6: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the array comprises three layers and at least four hoppers are provided. Example 7: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the array comprises four layers and at least five hoppers are provided. Example 8: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the number of hoppers is at least two greater than the number of layers in the array. Example 9: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the hopper has one or more vanes, each vane adapted to position a single rod-shaped article at a predetermined position within the array. Example 10: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein if the control system detects a fault condition in one of the hoppers, the control system prevents that hopper from moving rod-shaped articles from that hopper to a pocket. Example 11: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein if the control system detects a fault condition in one of the hopper vanes, the control system prevents the hopper vane from moving the rod-shaped articles from the vane into the pockets. Example 12: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein at least one hopper of a plurality of hoppers and a pocket are adapted to enable relative movement between at least a portion of the hopper and the pocket, the movement being perpendicular to the extension of the layer of the array. Example 13: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising: an apparatus as described in any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein at least a portion of one or more of the plurality of hoppers is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to an extension line of the layers of the array. Example 14: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least one hopper of a plurality of hoppers and a pocket are adapted to allow relative movement between at least a portion of the hopper and the pocket in a direction substantially parallel to the extension of the layers of the array, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 13. Example 15: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein at least a portion of one or more of the multiple hoppers is movable in a direction substantially parallel to an extension line of the layers of the array. Example 16: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein each hopper is provided with an insertion device for pushing one or more rod-shaped articles from the hopper into a pocket. Example 17: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 16, wherein the insertion device is adapted to push a moving set of rod-shaped articles from a hopper into a pocket. Example 18: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 16 or 17, wherein the insertion device is adapted to push one or more layers of rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket. Example 19: 19. Apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 16 to 18, wherein the insertion device comprises one pusher. Example 20: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising an insertion device comprising a plurality of pushers adapted to selectively push rod-shaped articles from a hopper into a pocket, as described in any one of Examples 16-19. Example 21: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 16 to 20, wherein the insertion device is adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially perpendicular to the extension of the layer of the array. Example 22: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 16 to 21, wherein the insertion device is adjustable relative to the hopper in a direction substantially parallel to the extension of the layer of the array. Example 23: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising a conveying system comprising a track, the apparatus being described in any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the pocket is adapted to move along the track. Example 24: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 23, wherein a plurality of pockets are movable independently of one another along a track. Example 25: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 23 or 24, wherein one or more pockets are removably disposed on a carrier, and the carrier is disposed on a track and movable along the track. Example 26: 26. Apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 23 to 25, wherein the transport system comprises a linear motor. Example 27: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 23 to 26, wherein the conveying system is adapted to move the carriers at individual speeds. Example 28: 28. Apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 23 to 27, wherein the conveying system comprises at least one junction. Example 29: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, described in any one of Examples 23 to 28, wherein the junction moves the pockets to a branch or another track, particularly for storage, quality control, cleaning, or other maintenance. Example 30: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least two pockets are different from each other and have internal geometries suitable for accommodating different types of arrays, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 29. Example 31: 31. An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, in particular aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of the preceding claims, comprising a packaging unit, the packaging unit adapted to form a package around the array of rod-shaped articles. Example 32: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 31, wherein the packaging unit includes a pusher for moving the array from the pocket to the packaging unit. Example 33: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 31 or 32, wherein a conveying system connects a hopper to a packaging unit and moves the array from the hopper to the packaging unit by means of movable pockets. Example 34: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising two or more packaging units connected to a hopper by a conveying system, as described in any one of Examples 31 to 33. Example 35: An apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 34, wherein a packaging unit is adapted to move an arrangement of the same type to the packaging unit and form a package around the arrangement. Example 36: An apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, wherein a first packaging unit may be adapted to transfer an arrangement of a first type and a second packaging unit may be adapted to transfer an arrangement of a second type, the second type being different from the first type, as described in Example 34 or 35. Example 37: An apparatus for forming an alignment of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising an inspection system adapted to detect improper alignment or rod-shaped articles in a pocket, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 36. Example 38: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 37, wherein the inspection system is adapted to detect the number of rod-shaped articles in the array. Example 39: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 37 or 38, wherein the inspection system is adapted to detect visually recognizable defects in the rod-shaped articles in the array. Example 40: An apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 37 to 39, wherein the inspection system is adapted to detect improper arrangement or rod-shaped articles in a pocket during movement of the pocket. Example 41: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 1 to 40, wherein the apparatus comprises a cleaning system adapted to clean empty pockets. Example 42: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising an identification device, the identification device being adapted to identify a pocket, particularly based on an identifier on the pocket, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 41. Example 43: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 42, wherein the identification device is a scanner, particularly an optical scanner or an RFID scanner. Example 44: 44. An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 1 to 43, the apparatus comprising a plurality of identification devices. Example 45: An apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least one identification device is arranged in a feeder unit, specifically in each feeder unit, and at least one identification device is arranged in a packaging unit, specifically in each packaging unit, as described in any one of Examples 42 to 44. Example 46: A method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising the steps of providing a feeder unit having a set of pockets and hoppers, and performing a plurality of transfer steps to form the array, each transfer step including positioning the pocket next to a hopper in the set of hoppers and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from the hopper to the pocket, wherein the number of hoppers in the set of hoppers is greater than the number of transfer steps. Example 47: 47. The method of claim 46, wherein the method is for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, and each transfer step is performed in a separate hopper of one of a set of hoppers. Example 48: 48. The method of claim 46 or 47, which is a method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, wherein in each transferring step, at least one layer of the rod-shaped articles is transferred from a hopper to a pocket. Example 49: A method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 46 to 48, wherein the number of transfer stations is three and the number of hoppers is at least four. Example 50: A method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 46 to 49, wherein the number of transfer stations is four and the number of hoppers is at least five. Example 51: 51. A method according to any one of embodiments 46 to 50, for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the number of hoppers is at least two more than the number of transfer stations. Example 52: A method according to any one of Examples 46 to 51, comprising forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, the method of forming the array further comprising one or more steps of identifying pockets based on identifiers on the pockets. Example 53: The method of forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to example 52, wherein the method of forming the array further comprises a step of associating a physical characteristic of a pocket with an identifier on the pocket. Example 54: A method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 52 or 53, wherein the method for forming the array further comprises a step of transporting the pockets to a packaging unit, and the packaging unit is selected based on an identifier on the pocket. Example 55: A method as described in Example 54, comprising forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, the method of forming the array further comprising a step of verifying that the correct pockets have been transported to the packaging unit based on identifiers on the pockets. Example 56: A method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising the steps of: sequentially arranging a first pocket adjacent to a first set of hoppers and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from each hopper of the first set of hoppers to the first pocket to form a first array; and sequentially arranging a second pocket adjacent to a second set of hoppers and transferring at least one rod-shaped article from each hopper of the second set of hoppers to the second pocket to form a second array, the second set of hoppers comprising at least one hopper not included in the first set of hoppers. Example 57: The method of forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to Example 56, wherein the first set of hoppers comprises a first hopper and a second hopper, and the second set of hoppers comprises a first hopper and a third hopper. Example 58: 57. The method of claim 56, wherein the first set of hoppers is comprised of a first hopper, a second hopper, and a third hopper, and the second set of hoppers is comprised of a first hopper, a second hopper, and a fourth hopper. Example 59: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising a conveying system having one or more movable pockets, at least one feeder unit adapted to feed an array of rod-shaped articles to the pocket, and two or more packaging units, each adapted to form a package around the array of rod-shaped articles. Example 60: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 59, wherein the feeder unit includes one or more hoppers forming a storage portion for the rod-shaped articles. Example 61: 61. An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising two or more feeder units, as described in Example 59 or 60. Example 62: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein a first feeder unit is adapted to supply a first arrangement to the pocket and a second feeder unit is adapted to supply a second arrangement to the pocket, the first arrangement being different from the second arrangement, the apparatus described in any one of Examples 59 to 61. Example 63: An apparatus for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 62, wherein the first arrangement has a different format than the second arrangement. Example 64: An apparatus for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 62 or 63, wherein the first arrangement comprises a different type of rod-shaped articles than the second arrangement. Example 65: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 59 to 64, wherein the conveying system comprises a track and connects the feeder unit with the packaging unit. Example 66: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 65, wherein a pocket is movable along a track between a feeder unit and a packaging unit independently of other pockets. Example 67: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising the apparatus of Example 65 or 66, wherein one or more pockets are removably disposed on a carrier, and the carrier is disposed on a track and movable along the track. Example 68: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 59 to 67, wherein the conveying system comprises a linear motor. Example 69: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least two pockets are suitable for accommodating different types of arrangements, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 68. Example 70: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 59 to 69, wherein the conveying system is adapted to move the carriers at individual speeds. Example 71: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 59 to 70, wherein the conveying system comprises at least one junction. Example 72: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 71, wherein the junction moves the pockets to a branch or another track, particularly for storage, quality control, cleaning, or other maintenance. Example 73: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising a conveying system having one or more branches, each branch being associated with at least one packaging unit, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 72. Example 74: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the packaging unit is provided with a pusher for transferring the arrangement from the pocket to the packaging unit, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 73. Example 75: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 74, wherein the conveying system connects the feeder unit to the packaging unit for conveying the array from the feeder unit to the packaging unit by movable pockets. Example 76: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to any one of Examples 59 to 75, wherein the packaging unit is adapted to form packages around the same type of arrangement. Example 77: An apparatus for producing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein a first packaging unit is adapted to form a package around a different type of arrangement than a second packaging unit, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 76. Example 78: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising an inspection system adapted to detect improper alignment or rod-shaped articles in a pocket, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 77. Example 79: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 78, wherein the inspection system is adapted to detect the number of rod-shaped articles in an arrangement. Example 80: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 78 or 79, wherein the inspection system is adapted to detect visually recognizable defects in the arrangement of the rod-shaped articles. Example 81: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising any one of Examples 78 to 80, wherein the inspection system is adapted to detect improper alignment or rod-shaped articles within a pocket in a quality control station or during movement of the pocket. Example 82: An apparatus for manufacturing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, described in any one of Examples 59 to 81, further comprising a cleaning system adapted to clean empty pockets. Example 83: An apparatus for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising an identification device, the identification device being adapted to identify a pocket, specifically based on an identifier on the pocket, as described in any one of Examples 59 to 82. Example 84: An apparatus for manufacturing a package of a rod-shaped article, specifically an aerosol-generating article, as described in Example 83, wherein the identification device is a scanner, specifically an optical scanner or an RFID scanner. Example 85: An apparatus for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, as described in Example 83 or 84, wherein the apparatus has a plurality of identification devices. Example 86: An apparatus for producing packages of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least one identification device is arranged in a feeder unit, specifically in each feeder unit, and at least one identification device is arranged in a packaging unit, specifically in each packaging unit, as described in any one of Examples 83 to 85. Example 87: A method for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, comprising the steps of moving at least one rod-shaped article from a feeder unit to an individually movable pocket of a conveying system to form an arrangement, and moving the pocket with the arrangement to one of two or more packaging units, and forming a package around the arrangement by the packaging unit. Example 88: The method of claim 87 for producing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the moving of the pockets varies depending on the arrangement format. Example 89: The method of claim 87 or 88 for producing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the moving of the pockets varies depending on the type of rod-shaped articles being arranged. Example 90: 90. A method according to any one of Examples 87 to 89 for producing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, the package corresponding to the format of the arrangement. Example 91: A method as described in any one of Examples 87 to 90, for producing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the method for producing the package further comprises one or more steps of identifying a pocket based on an identifier on the pocket. Example 92: The method of claim 91, wherein the method for manufacturing a package of a rod-shaped article, specifically an aerosol-generating article, further comprises a step of associating a physical characteristic of the pocket with an identifier on the pocket. Example 93: A method for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, according to embodiment 91 or 92, wherein the method for manufacturing the package further comprises a step of transporting the pocket to a packaging unit, and the packaging unit is selected based on an identifier on the pocket. Example 94: The method of claim 93, for manufacturing a package of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, the method of manufacturing the package further comprising a step of verifying that the correct pocket has been transported to the packaging unit based on an identifier on the pocket. Example 95: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, particularly aerosol-generating articles, comprising a plurality of pockets movable independently of one another along a track, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 45. Example 96: An apparatus for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of pockets, each pocket adapted to accommodate an array having a plurality of layers of rod-shaped articles, and a control system configured to move the pockets independently of one another, specifically along a track, the apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 45 or 95. Example 97: A method according to any one of Examples 46 to 55, comprising forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, the method comprising providing a plurality of pockets, the pockets being movable independently of one another, and the array being formed within one of the plurality of pockets. Example 98: A method for forming an array of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the pocket is a first pocket, the number of moving sets is the number of moving steps of the first array, and the array is the first array, the method further comprising the steps of providing a second pocket and performing a plurality of moving steps of the second array to form the second array, each moving step of the second array comprising positioning the second pocket next to a hopper of a set of hoppers and moving at least one rod-shaped article from the hopper to the second pocket, wherein the number of hoppers in the set of hoppers is greater than the number of moving steps of the second array, and the first pocket and the second pocket move independently of each other.

[0129] The embodiment will now be further described with reference to the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0130] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic top view of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the feeder unit and part of the transport system of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a side view of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a front view of two different arrangements in two different pockets according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a front view of a hopper according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a front view of a three-component hopper according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a front view of a schematic diagram showing how rod-shaped articles are moved from the feeder units to the pockets, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a front view of the schematic diagram of FIG. 7 in a different situation. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a carrier carrying two pockets according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a top view of a packaging unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0131] An apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1. The apparatus 1 comprises a number of feeder units 2 and a number of packaging units 3. The feeder units 2 are connected to the packaging units 3 by a conveying system 4. The conveying system 4 comprises a track 5. A carrier 6 comprising pockets 7 moves along the track 5. The conveying system 4 comprises a main loop 8 and several branches 9. A junction 10 connects the branches 9 to the main loop 8. The pockets 7 are supplied with rod-shaped articles 11 to the feeder units 2, which are then conveyed by the carriers 6 to the packaging units 3. An inspection system 30 is arranged along the track 5 between the feeder units 2 and the packaging units 3. A cleaning system 31 is arranged on the branch 9 between the packaging units 3 and the feeder units 2.

[0132] FIG. 2 shows a feeder unit 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The feeder unit 2 comprises three hoppers 12. Each hopper 12 holds a number of rod-like articles 11. Each hopper 12 comprises a hopper wall 13 forming a number of vanes 14. The vanes 14 serve to arrange the rod-like articles 11 in rows. FIG. 2 also shows that a carrier 6 comprising pockets 7 moves adjacent to the hoppers 12. The rod-like articles 11 at the bottom of the hoppers 12 are then pushed into the pockets 7 by an inserting device 15 to form an arrangement 17 of the rod-like articles 11.

[0133] The insertion device 15 and how the rod-like articles 11 are pushed into the pockets 7 are shown in Figure 3. The insertion device 15 enters through an opening at the rear of the hopper 12 and selectively moves the rod-like articles 11 into the pockets 7. The insertion device 15 may include only one pusher 16 as shown in Figure 3, but may also include multiple pushers 16.

[0134] Figure 4 shows two arrangements 17 of rod-like articles 11 in a pocket 7. The arrangements 17 in Figure 4 can have different forms: the arrangement 17 in the pocket 7 on the left has two layers 18 of rod-like articles 11, and the arrangement 17 in the pocket 7 on the right has three layers 18 of rod-like articles 11. The number of rod-like articles 11 per layer 18 differs not only between the two arrangements 17, but also between different layers 18 of the same arrangement 17.

[0135] In this embodiment, the layers 18 extend primarily in a horizontal direction 100 and two layers 18 are stacked on top of each other in a vertical direction 200 .

[0136] FIG. 4 also shows that the pockets 7 have different shapes to accommodate different types of alignments 17 .

[0137] The feeder unit 2 comprises a number of individual hoppers 12. Figure 5 shows an individual hopper 12 separated from the other hoppers 12. At the top of the hopper 12, the rod-like articles 11 are randomly arranged. As the rod-like articles 11 progress towards the bottom of the hopper 12, they are separated by the hopper wall 13 and arranged in rows within the vanes 14.

[0138] In another embodiment, the feeder unit 2 comprises hoppers 12 emerging from a common vessel 19. Figure 6 shows three hoppers 12 emerging from a common vessel 19. Each hopper 12 shown in Figures 5 and 6 comprises four separate hopper walls 13 forming five vanes 14. The hoppers 12 are fed with rod-like articles 11 by a conveyor 20.

[0139] FIG. 7 shows how the rod-like articles 11 are transferred from the hopper 12 into the pocket 7. In this embodiment, an arrangement 17 is formed having three layers 18, namely a first layer 21, a second layer 22, and a third layer 23. The feeder unit 2 comprises a first hopper 24, a second hopper 25, a third hopper 26, and a fourth hopper 27. In this embodiment, each layer 18 of the arrangement 17 corresponds to a transfer set. The positions of the hoppers 24, 25, 26, 27 are adjustable in the vertical direction 200. The pocket 7 moves along the horizontal direction 100 and is aligned with the first hopper 24. After the first layer 21 of the rod-like articles 11 is transferred from the first hopper 24 into the pocket 7, the pocket 7 moves to the second hopper 25 to receive the second layer 22 of the rod-like articles 11. The pocket 7 then moves to the third hopper 26 to receive the third layer 23 of the rod-like articles 11. In this embodiment, the fourth hopper 27 is not necessary.

[0140] FIG. 8 shows the same embodiment as FIG. 7. However, in this example, a blockage of the second hopper 25 has caused a defect 28 in the placement of the rod-like goods 11. The fourth hopper 27 moves downwards to replace the second hopper 25. The pocket 7 moves to the first hopper 24 to receive the first layer 21 of the rod-like goods 11. The pocket 7 then moves to the fourth hopper 27 to receive the second layer 22 of the rod-like goods 11. The pocket 7 then moves to the third hopper 26 to receive the third layer 23 of the rod-like goods 11. In the meantime, the blocked second hopper 25 can be cleared without stopping the feeder unit 2. It is also possible that the third hopper 26 moves downwards to replace the second hopper 25 and the fourth hopper 27 replaces the third hopper 26.

[0141] 9 shows a carrier 6 on a track 5. Two pockets 7 are attached to the carrier 6. The pockets 7 are also removable from the carrier 6.

[0142] Figure 10 shows a packaging unit 3 according to one embodiment of the invention. The carrier 6 is moved along the track 5 to position the pocket 7 adjacent to the packaging unit 3. The packaging unit 3 comprises a packaging unit pusher 29 which moves the arrangement 17 of rod-like articles 11 from the pocket 7 onto the packaging unit 3. The packaging unit 3 then forms a package around the arrangement 17 of rod-like articles 11.

Claims

1. An apparatus for arranging rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, A set of multiple movable pockets, each pocket being adapted to accommodate an arrangement having multiple layers of rod-shaped articles, A plurality of hoppers forming a storage section for rod-shaped articles, wherein each hopper is adapted to provide each moving set of rod-shaped articles in the arrangement described above, The system comprises a control system configured to control the relative movement of each of the pockets with respect to the hopper, Each of the aforementioned pockets is adapted to be positioned next to each hopper, and each of the aforementioned moving sets of rod-shaped articles can be moved from each of the hoppers to each of the aforementioned pockets. The cumulative number of rod-shaped articles in all moving sets is greater than the number of rod-shaped articles in each of the aforementioned arrangements. An apparatus in which the control system is configured to move the pockets vertically relative to the hopper and / or move the hopper independently of each other.

2. The apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the number of hoppers is greater than the number of layers in the arrangement, according to claim 1.

3. An apparatus for arranging rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein if the control system detects a malfunction in one of the hoppers, the control system prevents the hopper from moving the rod-shaped articles from the hopper to the pocket, according to claim 1 or 2.

4. An apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least one of the plurality of hoppers and the pocket are adapted to allow relative movement between at least a portion of the hopper and the pocket, and the movement is perpendicular to the extension line of the layer of the arrangement, according to claim 1.

5. The apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least a portion of one or more of the plurality of hoppers is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the extension line of the layer of the arrangement, according to claim 1.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein each hopper is equipped with an insertion device for pushing one or more rod-shaped articles from the hopper into the pocket.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, further comprising a transport system having a track, wherein the pockets are adapted to move along the track.

8. The apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the plurality of pockets are movable independently of each other along the track, according to claim 7.

9. An apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein one or more pockets are detachably arranged on a carrier, the carrier is arranged on a track, and is movable along the track, according to claim 7 or 8.

10. The apparatus for forming arrangements of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein at least two pockets have different inner shapes suitable for receiving different types of arrangements, according to claim 1.

11. The apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, further comprising a packaging unit, wherein the packaging unit is adapted to form a package around the arrangement of rod-shaped articles, according to claim 1.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, further comprising an inspection system adapted to detect improper arrangements or rod-shaped articles within a pocket.

13. The apparatus for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein the apparatus comprises an identification device, the identification device being adapted to identify the pockets, specifically based on an identifier on the pockets.

14. A method for arranging rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, - A process for providing a feeder unit equipped with multiple pockets and a set of hoppers, - A step of performing a plurality of movement steps in order to form the arrangement within one of the plurality of pockets, Each moving step includes positioning the pocket next to one of the hoppers in the set of hoppers, and moving at least one rod-shaped article from the hopper to the pocket. The number of hoppers in the aforementioned hopper set is greater than the number of movement steps. A method in which the control system is configured to move the pockets perpendicular to the hopper and / or move the hopper independently of each other.

15. A method for forming an arrangement of rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, wherein each movement step is performed using one other hopper from the set of hoppers, according to claim 14.

16. A method for arranging rod-shaped articles, specifically aerosol-generating articles, - The process of sequentially placing the first pocket next to the first hopper set, - A step of moving at least one rod-shaped article from each hopper of the set of first hoppers to the first pocket to form a first arrangement, - The process of sequentially placing the second pocket next to the second hopper set, - The process includes the step of moving at least one rod-shaped article from each hopper of the second hopper set to the second pocket to form a second arrangement, The second set of hoppers comprises at least one hopper that is not included in the first set of hoppers. A method wherein the first set of hoppers and the second set of hoppers share one, two, or three common hoppers.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the first set of hoppers comprises at least two hoppers, and the second set of hoppers comprises at least two hoppers.

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