Assembling aerosol-generating articles on a conveyor with spacers
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS SA
- Filing Date
- 2023-05-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-19
AI Technical Summary
There is a need for an improved assembly of an aerosol-generating article that maintains a gap between the rod and the filter to prevent burning or excessive heating of the filter, which can affect the taste of the smoke, and to provide space for aerosol cooling, condensation, and nucleation in heated non-combustion devices.
An apparatus comprising a conveyor with a support surface for axially aligned rod-shaped segments and a spacer that moves from a stored position to an operative position to provide an abutment means for the rod-shaped segments, creating a gap between them. The spacer can be arranged between the rod-shaped segments, and its width determines the gap size, allowing for reduced material usage and improved manufacturing efficiency.
The apparatus enables the efficient assembly of aerosol-generating articles with a controlled gap between the rod and the filter, reducing material costs, enhancing sustainability, and improving the taste and quality of the aerosol produced by preventing excessive heating and providing space for aerosol processing.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, and the use of a spacer in an apparatus for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article. [Background technology]
[0002] WO 2021 / 123425 discloses a packaging apparatus and method for wrapping a sheet around a group of segments. WO 2021 / 165509 discloses an aerosol-generating article having a rod and a filter arranged in a spaced apart relationship, and a method for producing the same.
[0003] There is a need for an improved assembly of an aerosol-generating article having a gap between the rod and the filter. Summary of the Invention
[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, the apparatus comprising a conveyor having a support surface for supporting at least two axially aligned rod-shaped segments of the aerosol-generating article, the apparatus further comprising a spacer, the apparatus configured to move the spacer from a stored position to an operative position, in which the spacer provides abutment means for the rod-shaped segments on the support surface.
[0005] In particular, the spacer provides abutment means for two rod-like segments disposed on either side of the spacer in the operative position.
[0006] The device may comprise several aligned spacers, which may be arranged alternately with several axially aligned rod-shaped segments. In particular, the device may comprise two aligned spacers, which may be arranged alternately with three aligned rod-shaped segments.
[0007] In the operating position, the spacer may be disposed between the rod-shaped segments, in particular so that the rod-shaped segments do not contact each other. Moving the spacer to the stored position may provide a gap between the two rod-shaped segments. The gap between the rod-shaped segments may result in less rod-shaped segment material being used. Thus, the apparatus may reduce material costs and increase sustainability. Using the apparatus, an aerosol-generating article having a gap between two rod-shaped segments may be formed in fewer process steps compared to conventional methods.
[0008] The aerosol-generating article may be a combustible cigarette or an article for use in a heat-not-burn device. One of the rod-shaped segments may be an aerosol-generating rod. The aerosol-generating rod may contain an aerosol-generating substrate, in particular tobacco, herbs, oils, or an artificial substrate. One of the rod-shaped segments may be a filter or a hollow tube, in particular made of acetate tow, such as a cigarette filter. The consumer may consume the aerosol-generating article by burning. During burning, the aerosol-generating rod may burn and the burning area of the aerosol-generating rod may come close to the filter. This may cause burning or excessive heating of the filter, which may have a negative effect on the taste of the smoke. A gap between the filter and the rod may prevent such effects. In heated non-combustion devices in which the aerosol-generating article may be heated rather than combusted, the aerosol-generating rod may be heated to about 300 degrees Celsius or more, and the space between the aerosol-generating rod and the filter may advantageously provide space in which the aerosol can cool, condense, and nucleate before passing through the filter and into the user's mouth.
[0009] The conveyor may comprise a spacer. The conveyor may comprise a storage cavity for accommodating the spacer at least when the spacer is in the stored position. The storage cavity may have substantially the same size as the spacer. The storage cavity may be larger than the spacer such that the storage cavity may accommodate other components in addition to the spacer.
[0010] In the stored position, the spacers may be flush with or below the support surface. Such a configuration may allow a sheet, particularly a wrapper, to be wrapped around the rod-shaped segment without interference from the spacers. In the operating position, the spacers may protrude from the support surface.
[0011] A plunger or guiding surface may be provided to press one or both rod-like segments against the spacer in the operating position. The guiding surface may be stationary. The stationary guiding surface may extend at least partially along the circumference of the drum, and the stationary guiding surface may be inclined with respect to the axial direction. The rod-like segment may be moved relative to the guiding surface such that the guiding surface presses the rod-like segment against the spacer. The plunger or guiding surface may engage a distal end of the rod-like segment, while a proximal end of the rod-like segment contacts the spacer. As an alternative to a guiding surface or plunger, the rod-like segment may be pressed against the spacer by air pressure. The device may comprise an air nozzle. The air nozzle may be adapted to apply air pressure to the rod-like segment or to a plurality of rod-like segments such that the rod-like segment or to a plurality of rod-like segments is pressed against the spacer.
[0012] The spacer may have a width of 1 mm to 15 mm, in particular 1 mm to 4 mm. Such a value may provide a sufficiently large gap between the rod-shaped segments. The width of the spacer may correspond to the gap formed between the rod-shaped segments, in particular the distance between the rod-shaped segments. The width of the spacer may be measured in the longitudinal direction of the rod-shaped segments.
[0013] The conveyor may include a cam. The cam may be adapted to move the spacers from a stored position to an operating position. The cam may be an efficient and accurate way to move the spacers. Such a system may require minimal maintenance. Such a system may require minimal control. The cam may be interchangeable to provide different spacer movements. The orientation or position, or orientation and position, of the cam may be adjusted to tailor the movement of the spacers.
[0014] Alternatively, the spacers may be moved by a motor driven by an electronic controller.
[0015] The conveyor may comprise a drum, which may be adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation, and which may be an efficient tool for transporting rod-like segments and aerosol-generating articles.
[0016] The drum may include a spacer. The drum may be adapted to rotate relative to the cam such that the spacer may rotate around the cam. As the spacer passes the cam, the spacer may contact the cam and may be moved to an operative position. The cam may urge the spacer to the operative position. The spacer may contact the cam around a full rotation of the drum.
[0017] The cam may be stationary. The cam may be a desmodromic cam. The cam may be a magnetic cam.
[0018] The drum may be stationary and the cam may be adapted to rotate relative to the drum. As the cam rotates, it may contact the spacer and move the spacer into an operative position.
[0019] The drum may be adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation. The cam may be adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation. The drum and cam may be adapted to rotate about the same axis of rotation. The drum and cam may rotate at different speeds. The drum and cam may rotate in opposite directions. The drum and cam may rotate in the same direction.
[0020] The conveyor may comprise a groove. The groove may form a support surface. The groove may be formed on the support surface. The groove may be adapted to receive a rod-shaped segment of the aerosol-generating article. The groove may facilitate retention of the rod-shaped segment. The groove may facilitate axial alignment of the rod-shaped segment.
[0021] The spacer may be arranged such that it protrudes into the groove in the operating position, which may allow the rod-shaped segments to be axially aligned within the groove and to be arranged at a distance relative to each other.
[0022] The storage cavity may open into the groove such that at least a portion of the spacer may move into the groove.
[0023] The conveyor may comprise a plurality of grooves. The plurality of grooves may be spaced around a circumferential surface (particularly a support surface) of the conveyor (particularly a drum). The grooves may be spaced equidistantly around the conveyor. The conveyor may comprise a plurality of spacers. The spacers may be spaced equidistantly around the conveyor. Each spacer may be associated with a groove. The conveyor may comprise a plurality of storage cavities. Each storage cavity may be associated with a groove, and in particular may be disposed adjacent a respective groove.
[0024] The device may include a spring. The spring may be adapted to bias the spacer towards the stored position. The cam may be adapted to move the spacer to the operating position against the bias of the spring. The spring may move the spacer to the stored position when the spacer rotates away from the cam or the cam rotates away from the spacer. The spring may move the spacer back into the storage cavity. The spring may move the spacer flush with or below the support surface.
[0025] The spacer may include a flange. The flange may be adapted to engage the spring.
[0026] The spring may be a compression spring. The spring may be disposed on a portion of the spacer, in particular between the flange and the support surface. The spring may urge the spacer into the storage cavity.
[0027] The spring may be a tension spring. The spring may be disposed between a portion of the spacer, particularly a flange, and a center of the conveyor, particularly a drum. The spring may pull the spacer into the storage cavity.
[0028] The device may comprise a magnet. The magnet may be adapted to bias the spacer towards the storage position. The cam may be magnetic so that the spacer can be moved to the working position by magnetic force. The cam may change the direction of the magnetic force so that the spacer is moved to the storage position. The magnet may hold the spacer in the storage position. The magnet may be switched off so that the spacer can be moved to the working position by centrifugal force. The centrifugal force may be caused due to the rotation of the conveyor or drum. The magnet may be active all the time. A shielding element may be arranged at a predetermined position between the magnet and the spacer so that the spacer is not affected by the magnet. In this position, the magnet cannot bias the spacer to the storage position and the spacer can be moved to the working position by centrifugal force. The shielding element may be a second magnet with a different orientation compared to the other magnet so that the spacer can be moved to the working position by the second magnet. Magnets may be located on the outside of the drum or conveyor and may either pull the spacer to an operative position or push the spacer into a stored position.
[0029] The suction holes may be provided in the support surface. The conveyor may comprise a suction channel. The suction channel may open towards the support surface, in particular towards the suction holes. The suction holes may facilitate holding of the rod-like segments. The suction holes may be provided in grooves on the support surface. The suction holes may be equidistantly spaced apart in the groove. The suction holes may be equidistantly spaced apart around the support surface. All the suction holes may have substantially the same size. Suction holes of different sizes may be provided.
[0030] The apparatus may include a wrapper conveyor, which may be a drum adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation, and which may wrap the sheet around the rod-shaped segments.
[0031] A wrapper conveyor may be disposed adjacent to the conveyor. The rod-shaped segments may be moved from the conveyor to the wrapper conveyor. A gap between the rod-shaped segments may be maintained when the rod-shaped segments move to the wrapper conveyor.
[0032] The apparatus may comprise a contact element, the contact element may have a facing surface, the facing surface may be disposed at a distance from a support surface of the conveyor or a circumferential surface of the wrapper conveyor.
[0033] The opposing surfaces may be adapted to facilitate rotation of the rod-shaped segments of the aerosol-generating article about their respective axes.
[0034] The opposing surfaces may be adapted to facilitate wrapping the bridging element, in particular the sheet, around the rod-shaped segments of the aerosol-generating article. The bridging element may be attached to the rod-shaped segments by an adhesive. The bridging element may facilitate maintaining a gap between the rod-shaped segments.
[0035] The spacer may be disposed outside the conveyor. In the stored position, the spacer may be spaced from the support surface. In the operating position, the spacer may be disposed closer to the support surface than in the stored position.
[0036] The conveyor may be configured to transport the rod-shaped segments along a conveying direction, which may be arranged at an incline, in particular perpendicular, to the conveying direction.
[0037] The conveyor may comprise a drum adapted to rotate about a longitudinally extending axis of rotation. The drum may comprise a plurality of grooves formed on a support surface. The grooves may be adapted to receive the rod-shaped segments. The grooves may extend primarily in the longitudinal direction.
[0038] The rod-shaped segments may be transported by a conveyor, in particular on a support surface of the conveyor. The rod-shaped segments may be transported in a conveying direction. The rod-shaped segments may be transported along a conveying path, in particular in a circumferential direction around the drum. The conveying direction may vary along the conveying path. The conveying direction may be parallel to a tangential direction of the conveyor, in particular of the drum. The conveyor may be configured to transport the rod-shaped segments along the conveying path. The conveyor may be configured to transport the rod-shaped segments in the conveying direction. The rod-shaped segments may be arranged substantially orthogonal to the conveying direction. In particular, the rod-shaped segments may extend mainly in a primary direction. The primary direction may be substantially orthogonal to the conveying direction. The conveyor may be configured to support, in particular hold, the rod-shaped segments arranged substantially orthogonal to the conveying direction.
[0039] The rod-shaped segment in the paragraph above can refer to a first rod-shaped segment and a second rod-shaped segment, and the rod-shaped segment in this paragraph can refer to a first rod-shaped segment, a second rod-shaped segment, and a third rod-shaped segment.
[0040] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, in particular for assembling an aerosol-generating article. A first rod-shaped segment is provided. A second rod-shaped segment is provided. The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment are axially aligned. A spacer is disposed between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. The spacer is removed such that a predetermined distance is established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment are connected with a bridging element such that a gap of the predetermined distance is provided between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment.
[0041] The rod-shaped segments may be conveyed along the conveying direction or they may be arranged at an angle to the conveying direction, in particular perpendicular thereto.
[0042] The conveyor may comprise a drum adapted to rotate about a longitudinally extending axis of rotation. The drum may comprise a plurality of grooves formed on a support surface. The grooves may be adapted to receive the rod-shaped segments. The grooves may extend primarily in the longitudinal direction. The rod-shaped segments may be positioned within the grooves. The rod-shaped segments may be axially disposed within the grooves.
[0043] The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be axially aligned on a conveyor, in particular on a support surface of the conveyor. The spacer may be part of the conveyor, in particular on which the rod-shaped segments are aligned. The rod-shaped segments may be transported by the conveyor, in particular on a support surface of the conveyor. The rod-shaped segments may be transported in a conveying direction. The rod-shaped segments may be transported circumferentially along a conveying path, in particular around the drum. The conveying direction may vary along the conveying path. The conveying direction may be parallel to a tangential direction of the conveyor, in particular of the drum. The rod-shaped segments may be arranged substantially orthogonal to the conveying direction. In particular, the rod-shaped segments may extend mainly in a primary direction. The primary direction may be substantially orthogonal to the conveying direction.
[0044] The rod-shaped segment in this paragraph can refer to a first rod-shaped segment and a second rod-shaped segment. The rod-shaped segment in the paragraph above can refer to a first rod-shaped segment, a second rod-shaped segment, and a third rod-shaped segment.
[0045] The first rod-shaped segment or the second rod-shaped segment may be pressed against the spacer, in particular by a plunger, a guiding surface, or air pressure.The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be pressed against the spacer, in particular by one or more plungers, one or more guiding surfaces, or air pressure.
[0046] The first rod-shaped segment may be provided by air pressure, vacuum, or a cam.The second rod-shaped segment may be provided by air pressure, vacuum, or a cam.
[0047] The first rod-shaped segment may be an aerosol-generating rod. The aerosol-generating rod may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate may be tobacco, herbs, oils, artificial substrates. The second rod-shaped segment may be a filter or a hollow tube, especially made of acetate tow, such as a cigarette filter. The filter may be made of any filtering material, especially including polymer-free materials. The filter may contain a flavor, especially menthol.
[0048] The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be axially aligned.
[0049] In the step of aligning the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, the first rod-shaped segment may be placed on the support surface of the conveyor, in particular in a groove on the support surface of the conveyor. The spacer may then be moved to a protruding position adjacent to the first rod-shaped segment. The second rod-shaped segment may then be placed on the support surface of the conveyor, in particular in a groove formed on the support surface of the conveyor, adjacent to the spacer. The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be placed on opposite sides of the spacer. The second rod-shaped segment may be placed on the support surface of the conveyor before the first rod-shaped segment. The spacer may be moved to a protruding position before either the first rod-shaped segment or the second rod-shaped segment is placed on the support surface.
[0050] In the step of removing the spacer, the spacer may be moved to a stored position.
[0051] The gap may have a length of 1 mm to 15 mm, in particular 1 mm to 4 mm. The length of the gap may be the distance between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. The length of the gap may be measured in the longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped segment. The longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped segment may be the same as the longitudinal direction of the second rod-shaped segment.
[0052] The second rod-shaped segment may have a length of between 7 mm and 35 mm, in particular between 20 mm and 30 mm, in particular about 27 mm.
[0053] In the step of connecting the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment with the bridging element, the bridging element may be attached to both the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. The bridging element may be wrapped around the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be rotated so that the bridging element may be wrapped around the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may remain stationary and the bridging element may be wrapped around the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment.
[0054] The bridging element may be a wrapper, in particular a sheet. The bridging element may be attached to the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment by an adhesive. The adhesive may be applied to an inner surface of the bridging element. The inner surface of the bridging element may be in contact with the rod-shaped segments.
[0055] The bridging element may have a thickness of 20 micrometers to 140 micrometers, in particular about 30 micrometers.
[0056] The bridging element may be a sheet, in particular a paper sheet. The bridging element may be made of several parts, in particular a first sheet and a second sheet.
[0057] The bridging element may extend along 1 millimeter to 15 millimeters of the length of the first rod-shaped segment. Such a length may be sufficient to attach the first rod-shaped segment to the second rod-shaped segment. The bridging element may extend along the entire length of the first rod-shaped segment. The bridging element may extend along the entire length of the second rod-shaped segment.
[0058] The bridging element may include at least one of a cellulosic material, paper, cardboard, reconstituted tobacco, or a cellulosic film.
[0059] The bridging element may have a weight of 50 grams per square meter or more. The bridging element may improve the strength of the aerosol-generating article. The bridging article may prevent the gap between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment from collapsing, particularly during use and during manufacture of the aerosol-generating article.
[0060] The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be axially aligned in a groove formed on a support surface of the conveyor, particularly a drum. Aligning the segments in the groove may facilitate alignment of the segments, may facilitate retention of the segments, or may facilitate transport of the segments.
[0061] The first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment may be held in the groove by suction. Suction may be applied through suction holes in the support surface of the conveyor. The suction holes may also be located outside the groove. In a non-grooved conveyor, the suction holes may be located in the support surface.
[0062] The method may further include providing a third rod-shaped segment. The second rod-shaped segment may be disposed between the first rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment. A spacer may be provided between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. A second spacer may be provided between the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment. A gap of a predetermined distance may be established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, and the two spacers may be removed such that a second gap of a second predetermined distance may be established between the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment. The first rod-shaped segment, the second rod-shaped segment, and the third rod-shaped segment may be connected by wrapping with a bridging element.
[0063] The second predetermined distance may be the same as the predetermined distance. The second spacer may be the same as the spacer.
[0064] Such a method may provide two aerosol-generating articles simultaneously, which may result in greater efficiency and higher throughput.
[0065] The bridging element may be wrapped around the first rod-shaped segment, the second rod-shaped segment, and the third rod-shaped segment.
[0066] The third rod-shaped segment may be a rod comprising the aerosol-generating substrate. The third rod-shaped segment may be identical to the first rod-shaped segment.
[0067] The method may further comprise the step of severing the bridging element and the second rod-shaped segment, whereby two, particularly substantially identical, aerosol-generating articles may be formed.
[0068] One of the two aerosol-generating articles may be rotated 180 degrees such that the two aerosol-generating articles may be oriented in the same direction. The rotation may be performed about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rotated aerosol-generating article. This means that the first rod-shaped segment of the first aerosol-generating article is on the same side as the third rod-shaped segment of the second aerosol-generating article.
[0069] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a spacer in an apparatus for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article to establish a predetermined gap between an aerosol-generating substrate segment and a filter segment. The spacer may in particular be used in an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article.
[0070] The spacer may be part of a conveyor. The conveyor may comprise a drum. The conveyor may transport the aerosol-generating substrate segments and the filter segments. The aerosol-generating substrate segments and the filter segments may be disposed, and in particular aligned, on a support surface of the conveyor, in particular a conveyor comprising a spacer.
[0071] The conveyor may transport the aerosol-generating substrate segments and the filter segments in a transport direction. The aerosol-generating substrate segments and the filter segments may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the transport direction. The aerosol-generating substrate segments and the filter segments may extend primarily in a primary direction. The primary direction may be substantially perpendicular to the transport direction.
[0072] The conveyor may comprise a drum adapted to rotate about a longitudinally extending axis of rotation. The drum may comprise a plurality of grooves formed on a support surface. The grooves may be adapted to receive the rod-shaped segments. The grooves may extend primarily in the longitudinal direction.
[0073] The apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention may be used using the method steps of the method according to the second aspect of the invention. The method according to the second aspect of the invention may be carried out using an apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention. The use of a spacer in an apparatus for producing an aerosol-generating article according to the third aspect of the invention may be carried out using an apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention or by using the method steps of the method according to the second aspect of the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0074] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a plan view on the circumferential surface of the conveyor shown on the right side of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a conveyor according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the conveyor of FIG. 3, but in a different position. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the conveyor shown in FIGS. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a conveyor according to one embodiment of the present invention and shows how aerosol-generating articles are produced according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a conveyor according to one embodiment of the invention and shows how aerosol-generating articles are produced according to one embodiment of the invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of a conveyor according to one embodiment of the invention and shows how aerosol-generating articles are produced according to one embodiment of the invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a conveyor according to one embodiment of the invention and shows how aerosol-generating articles are produced according to one embodiment of the invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a conveyor according to one embodiment of the present invention and shows how aerosol-generating articles are produced according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article made in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating how an aerosol-generating article is manufactured in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0075] 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.
[0076] Example 1: An apparatus, e.g., an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, comprising a conveyor having a support surface for supporting at least two axially aligned rod-shaped segments of an aerosol-generating article, and a spacer, configured to move the spacer from a stored position to an operating position, the spacer providing an abutment means for the rod-shaped segments on the support surface.
[0077] Example 2: An apparatus as described in Example 1, e.g., an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, comprising a number of aligned spacers, the number of aligned spacers may be arranged alternating with a number of axially aligned rod-shaped segments.
[0078] Example 3: An apparatus as described in Example 1 or Example 2, e.g. an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, wherein the conveyor comprises a spacer, in particular wherein the conveyor comprises a storage cavity for accommodating the spacer at least when the spacer is in the stored position.
[0079] Example 4: An apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 3, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein in the stored position, the spacer is flush with or retracted below the support surface, and in the operating position, the spacer protrudes from the support surface.
[0080] Example 5: An apparatus as described in any one of Examples 1 to 4, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein a plunger or guiding surface is provided to press one or both rod-shaped segments against the spacer in the operating position.
[0081] Example 6: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the spacer has a width of 1 millimeter to 15 millimeters, in particular 1 millimeter to 4 millimeters.
[0082] Example 7: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the conveyor comprises a cam, the cam being adapted to move the spacer from the stored position to the operating position.
[0083] Example 8: An apparatus as described in any one of Examples 1 to 7, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the conveyor comprises a drum adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation.
[0084] Example 9: An apparatus as described in Example 8, e.g., an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the drum is provided with a spacer and the drum is adapted to rotate relative to the cam such that the spacer rotates around the cam.
[0085] Example 10: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 7 to 9, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the cam is stationary.
[0086] Example 11: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 7 to 10, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the cam is a desmodromic cam.
[0087] Example 12: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 7 to 11, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the cam is a magnetic cam.
[0088] Example 13: An apparatus as described in any one of Examples 8 to 12, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the drum is stationary and the cam is adapted to rotate relative to the drum.
[0089] Example 14: An apparatus described in any one of Examples 8 to 13, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the drum is adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation and the cam is adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation, in particular about the same axis of rotation as the drum.
[0090] Example 15: An apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 14, for example an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, wherein the conveyor has a groove forming a support surface, the groove being adapted to receive a rod-shaped segment of an aerosol-generating article.
[0091] Example 16: An apparatus as described in Example 15, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the spacer is disposed such that the spacer protrudes into the groove in the operating position.
[0092] Example 17: An apparatus as described in either Example 15 or Example 16, e.g., an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the storage cavity opens into a groove.
[0093] Example 18: An apparatus as described in any one of Examples 15 to 17, for example an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, wherein the conveyor comprises a plurality of grooves, particularly spaced around the circumferential surface of the conveyor.
[0094] Example 19: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, for example an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, wherein the conveyor comprises a plurality of spacers.
[0095] Example 20: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 19, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, further comprising a spring, the spring adapted to bias the spacer towards the stored position.
[0096] Example 21: An apparatus as described in Example 20, such as an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the spacer comprises a flange adapted to engage with a spring.
[0097] Example 22: The apparatus of example 20 or example 21, e.g., an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the spring is a compression spring disposed between a portion of the spacer and the support surface.
[0098] Example 23: An apparatus as described in Example 20 or Example 21, e.g., an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the spring is a tension spring disposed between a portion of the spacer and the center of the conveyor.
[0099] Example 24: An apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 23, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the apparatus comprises a magnet, the magnet being adapted to bias the spacer towards the retracted position.
[0100] Example 25: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 24, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein suction holes are provided in the supporting surface.
[0101] Example 26: An apparatus as described in Example 25, such as an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the suction holes are provided in grooves on the supporting surface.
[0102] Example 27: An apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 26, for example an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, further comprising a wrapper conveyor, in particular a drum adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation.
[0103] Example 28: An apparatus as described in Example 27, such as an apparatus for assembling aerosol-generating articles, wherein a wrapper conveyor is disposed adjacent to the conveyor.
[0104] Example 29: An apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 28, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, further comprising a contact element having an opposing surface, the opposing surface being disposed at a distance from the support surface of the conveyor or the circumferential surface of the wrapper conveyor.
[0105] Example 30: An apparatus described in Example 29, e.g., an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the opposing surfaces are adapted to facilitate rotation of rod-shaped segments of the aerosol-generating article about their respective axes.
[0106] Example 31: An apparatus as described in Example 29 or Example 30, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein the opposing surfaces are adapted to facilitate wrapping a bridging element, in particular a sheet, around a rod-shaped segment of the aerosol-generating article.
[0107] Example 32: An apparatus described in any one of Examples 1 to 31, for example an apparatus for assembling an aerosol-generating article, wherein a spacer is arranged outside the conveyor, and in the storage position the spacer is distanced from the support surface, and in the operating position the spacer is arranged closer to the support surface than in the storage position.
[0108] Example 33: A method, e.g., a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, comprising the steps of: providing a first rod-shaped segment; providing a second rod-shaped segment; axially aligning the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment; disposing a spacer between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment; removing the spacer, whereby a predetermined distance is established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment; and connecting the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment with a bridging element such that a gap of the predetermined distance is provided between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment.
[0109] Example 34: A method according to Example 33, eg, a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the first rod-shaped segment is a rod comprising an aerosol-generating substrate.
[0110] Example 35: The method of example 33 or example 34, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the second rod-shaped segment is a filter.
[0111] Example 36: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 35, for example a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment are axially aligned.
[0112] Example 37: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 36, for example a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the step of connecting the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment with a bridging element includes attaching the bridging element to both the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, and rotating the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, thereby wrapping the bridging element around the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment.
[0113] Example 38: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 37, for example a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the step of axially aligning the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment includes: placing the first rod-shaped segment on a support surface of a conveyor, in particular in a groove formed on the support surface of the conveyor; moving a spacer to a protruding position adjacent to the first rod-shaped segment; and placing the second rod-shaped segment on the support surface of the conveyor, in particular in a groove formed on the support surface of the conveyor, adjacent to the spacer, wherein the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment are placed on opposite sides of the spacer.
[0114] Example 39: The method of any one of Examples 33 to 38, such as a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the step of removing the spacer comprises moving the spacer to a stored position.
[0115] Example 40: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 39, for example a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the gap has a length of from 1 millimeter to 15 millimeters, in particular from 1 millimeter to 4 millimeters.
[0116] Example 41: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 40, for example a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the second rod-shaped segment has a length of 7 millimeters to 35 millimeters, particularly 20 millimeters to 30 millimeters, particularly about 27 millimeters.
[0117] Example 42: The method of any one of Examples 33-41, eg, a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element is a wrapper.
[0118] Example 43: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 42, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element is wrapped around a first rod-shaped segment and a second rod-shaped segment.
[0119] Example 44: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 43, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element is attached to the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment by an adhesive.
[0120] Example 45: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 44, for example a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element has a thickness of 20 micrometers to 140 micrometers, in particular about 30 micrometers.
[0121] Example 46: A method according to any one of examples 33 to 45, such as a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element is a sheet, in particular a paper sheet.
[0122] Example 47: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 46, for example a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element consists of a plurality of parts, in particular a first sheet and a second sheet.
[0123] Example 48: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 47, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element extends along between 1 millimeter and 15 millimeters of the length of the first rod-shaped segment.
[0124] Example 49: A method according to any one of Examples 33-48, eg, a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging elements extend along the entire length of the second rod-shaped segment.
[0125] Example 50: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 49, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element comprises at least one of a cellulosic material, paper, cardboard, reconstituted tobacco, or a cellulosic film.
[0126] Example 51: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 50, for example a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment are axially aligned in a groove formed on a support surface of a conveyor, in particular a drum.
[0127] Example 52: A method as described in Example 51, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment are held in the grooves by suction, in particular applied through suction holes in the support surface of the conveyor.
[0128] Example 53: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 52, wherein a third rod-shaped segment is provided, a second rod-shaped segment is disposed between the first rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment, a spacer is provided between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, a second spacer is provided between the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment, a gap of a predetermined distance is established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, and the two spacers are removed such that a second gap of a second predetermined distance is established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, and the first rod-shaped segment, the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment are connected by wrapping with a bridging element, for example a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article.
[0129] Example 54: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 53, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the bridging element is wrapped around a first rod-shaped segment, a second rod-shaped segment, and a third rod-shaped segment.
[0130] Example 55: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 54, e.g. a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the third rod-shaped segment is a rod comprising an aerosol-generating substrate, in particular the third rod-shaped segment is identical to the first rod-shaped segment.
[0131] Example 56: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 55, e.g., a method for producing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the method further comprises a step of cutting the bridging element and the second rod-shaped segment, particularly so that two, particularly substantially uniform, aerosol-generating articles are formed.
[0132] Example 57: A method according to any one of Examples 33 to 56, e.g., a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, wherein one of the two aerosol-generating articles is rotated 180 degrees so that the two aerosol-generating articles are oriented in the same direction.
[0133] Example 58: Use of a spacer in an apparatus for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article to establish a predetermined gap between an aerosol-generating substrate segment and a filter segment.
[0134] Example 59: Use of a spacer according to example 58, wherein the spacer is part of a conveyor, in particular a drum.
[0135] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures.
[0136] An apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig. 1. The apparatus 1 comprises a conveyor 2 and an auxiliary conveyor 3. The conveyor 2 comprises a drum 4 adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation 5 extending in a longitudinal direction 100. The auxiliary conveyor 3 comprises a second drum 6 adapted to rotate about a second axis of rotation 7 extending in a longitudinal direction 100. The two drums 4, 6 rotate in different directions. The conveyor 2 is adapted to wind bridging elements 21 (not shown in Fig. 1) around rod-shaped segments 8 to form aerosol-generating articles 9. The conveyor 2, in particular the drum 4, comprises a support surface 10. The support surface 10 is adapted to support and hold the rod-shaped segments 8 and the aerosol-generating articles 9.
[0137] The apparatus 2 further comprises a contact element 11 having a facing surface 12. The facing surface 12 facilitates wrapping a bridging element 21 around the rod-shaped segment 8 to form the aerosol-generating article 9.
[0138] Figure 2 shows a plan view on the support surface 10 of the conveyor 2. The conveyor 2, in particular the drum 4, comprises a number of grooves 13 formed on the support surface 10. The grooves 13 extend mainly in the longitudinal direction 100 and are adapted to receive the rod-shaped segments 8. The grooves 13 are equidistantly spaced around the support surface 10 of the drum 4. Suction holes 14 are provided in the support surface 10 in the region of the grooves 13. Suction holes 14 may also be provided outside the grooves 13, as shown on the right side of Figure 2. The suction holes 14 are adapted to facilitate the retention of the rod-shaped segments 8 and the aerosol-generating articles 9.
[0139] The conveyor 2 further includes storage cavities 15. The storage cavities 15 open into the channels 13 and accommodate the spacers 16. One storage cavity 15 is disposed in each channel 13. Each storage cavity 15 accommodates one spacer 16. The storage cavities 15 are disposed between the suction holes 14 of the channels 13. The spacers 16 can be moved from a stored position in which each spacer 16 is flush with the support surface 10, as shown in the channel 13 on the right side of FIG. 2, to an operating position in which the spacers 16 protrude from the support surface 10, as shown in the channel 13 in the center of FIG. 2.
[0140] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the rod-like segment 8 comprises a first rod-like segment 17 and a second rod-like segment 18. In the operating position, the spacer 16 is disposed between the first rod-like segment 17 and the second rod-like segment 18. On the left side of Fig. 2, the spacer 16 is in a retracted position to establish a gap 19 between the first rod-like segment 17 and the second rod-like segment 18.
[0141] Figures 3 and 4 show how the spacers 16 move from a stored position to an operating position. A number of storage cavities 15 are spaced around the support surface 10 of the drum 4. Each support cavity 15 accommodates a spacer 16. For simplicity, only one spacer 16 is shown in Figures 3 and 4. The conveyor 2 further comprises a cam 20. The cam 20 is stationary while the drum 4 rotates about the axis of rotation 5. Thus, the storage cavities 15 and the spacers 16 rotate around the cam 20.
[0142] In Figure 3, the spacer 16 is in the stored position. When the storage cavity 15 having the spacer 16 is aligned with the cam 20, the spacer 16 contacts the distal end 30 of the cam 20 and is partially pushed out of the storage cavity 15 to the operating position. In the operating position, the spacer 16 protrudes from the support surface 10, as shown in Figure 4.
[0143] FIG. 5 illustrates how the spacer 16 returns to the storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The spacer 16 includes two flanges 26 that protrude laterally from the spacer 16. The springs 27 are disposed between the flanges 26 and the support surface 10. The storage cavity 15 in FIG. 5 is larger than the storage cavity 15 in FIGS. 3 and 4 to provide space for the flanges 26 and the springs 27. The springs 27 bias the spacer 16 into the storage cavity 15 toward the storage position, as shown in the upper left portion of FIG. 5. When the spacer 16 moves toward the distal end 30 of the cam 20, the distal end 30 of the cam 20 partially pushes the spacer 16 out of the storage cavity 15 to the operating position against the biasing force of the springs 27. The spacer 16 then protrudes from the support surface 10, as shown in the upper center portion of FIG. 5. As the spacer 16 moves away from the distal end 30 of the cam 20, the distal end 30 is no longer in contact with the spacer 16, so that the spring 27 pushes the spacer 16 back into the receiving recess 15, as shown in the upper right portion of FIG. 5.
[0144] Figures 6-10 show schematic diagrams of how an aerosol-generating article 9 is produced according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 shows an empty groove 13 on the support surface 10 of the drum 4 of the conveyor 2. The drum 4 and the grooves 13 on the drum 4 extend in a longitudinal direction 100. For illustrative purposes, only one groove 13 is shown in Figure 6. However, the conveyor 2 comprises a plurality of grooves 13. Suction holes 14 are arranged in the grooves 13 and storage cavities 15 are arranged between the suction holes 14. The storage cavities 15 accommodate a spacer 16, which in Figure 6 is in a stored position. A first rod-shaped segment 17 is inserted into the groove 13 as shown in Figure 7. The suction holes 14 serve to hold the first rod-shaped segment 17 in the groove 13. The spacer 16 is then moved to an operating position adjacent to the first rod-shaped segment 17, as shown in Figure 8. Here, the spacer 16 protrudes from the support surface 10. As shown in FIG. 9, the second rod-shaped segment 18 is then inserted into the groove 13 adjacent to the spacer 16. The second rod-shaped segment 18 is inserted into the spacer 16 on the opposite side to the first rod-shaped segment 17. The rod-shaped segments 17, 18 are pressed against the spacer 16, in particular by a plunger 28. In FIG. 9, only one plunger 28 is shown, which presses the second rod-shaped segment 18 against the spacer 16. However, a second plunger may be arranged on the opposite side of the drum 4 to press the first rod-shaped segment 17 against the spacer 16. Instead of or in addition to the plunger 28, a guide surface 29 (not shown in FIG. 9) or air pressure may be used to press the rod-shaped segments 17, 18 against the spacer 16. The spacer 16 is then moved back to the stored position, such that a gap 19 is established between the first rod-shaped segment 17 and the second rod-shaped segment 18, as shown in FIG. 10. Gap 19 has a predetermined width, i.e., the width of spacer 16. First rod-shaped segment 17 and second rod-shaped segment 18 are then wrapped with bridging element 21 to form aerosol-generating article 9. In Figures 6-10, drum 4 remains stationary.However, the drum 4 may also be rotated about an axis of rotation relative to a cam 20 to move the spacer 16 from the retracted position to the operative position, as shown in Figures 3 and 4 .
[0145] A cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article 9 manufactured using a method according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 11. The aerosol-generating article 9 extends mainly along a longitudinal axis 100 and comprises a first rod-shaped segment 17 and a second rod-shaped segment 18. The first rod-shaped segment 17 is disposed at a distance from the second rod-shaped segment 18 such that a gap 19 of a predetermined width is established between the two rod-shaped segments 17, 18. The aerosol-generating article 9 further comprises a bridging element 21. The bridging element 21 is wrapped around the first rod-shaped segment 17 and the second rod-shaped segment 18 such that the gap 19 is maintained in the aerosol-generating article 9.
[0146] A method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article 9 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 12. In step i), a rod-shaped material 22 is provided. In step ii), the rod-shaped material 22 is cut into a first rod-shaped segment 17 and a third rod-shaped segment 23. The first rod-shaped segment 17 and the third rod-shaped segment 23 are axially aligned with respect to a longitudinal axis direction 100 and spaced apart from each other. In step iii), a spacer 16 is then disposed adjacent to the first rod-shaped segment 17, and a second spacer 24 is disposed adjacent to the third rod-shaped segment 23. In step iv), a second rod-shaped segment 18 is inserted between the two spacers 16, 24. Thus, the two aligned spacers 16, 24 are alternately disposed with the three aligned rod-shaped segments 17, 18, 23. Pressure may be applied from both sides of the assembly comprising the three rod-shaped segments 17, 18, 23 and the two spacers 16, 24 to place the components adjacent to each other. The pressure may be provided by a stationary guide surface 29, as indicated by the arrows in step iv), engaging with the outer end of the first rod-shaped segment 17 or the third rod-shaped segment 23. The stationary guide surface 29 may extend at least partially along the circumference of the conveyor 2, and the stationary guide surface 29 may be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction 100. A second stationary guide surface (not shown in FIG. 12) may be arranged on the opposite side of the conveyor 2. As an alternative to the guide surface 29, the force indicated by the arrows in step iv) may be provided by a plunger 28 or plungers 28, as shown in FIG. 9. The plunger 28 or plungers 28 may be stationary or may rotate with the drum 4. In step v), the two spacers 16, 24 are removed so that a gap 19 is established between the first rod-shaped segment 17 and the second rod-shaped segment 18, and a second gap 25 is established between the second rod-shaped segment 18 and the third rod-shaped segment 23.In step vi), a bridging element 21 is attached to the first rod-shaped segment 17, the second rod-shaped segment 18, and the third rod-shaped segment 23 and wrapped around these three rod-shaped segments 17, 18, 23. The bridging element 21 serves to maintain a gap 19 between the first rod-shaped segment 17 and the second rod-shaped segment 18, and a second gap 25 between the second rod-shaped segment 18 and the third rod-shaped segment 23. In step vii), a cut is made through the bridging element 21 and the second rod-shaped segment 18, such that two aerosol-generating articles 9 are formed. The cut is made substantially in the middle of the second rod-shaped segment 18. The aerosol-generating articles 9 extend mainly in a longitudinal direction 100. In step viii), one of the two aerosol-generating articles 9 is rotated 180 degrees, such that the two aerosol-generating articles 9 are oriented in the same direction. The rotation is performed around an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 100 of the aerosol-generating article 9.
Claims
1. A device for assembling an aerosol-generating article, A conveyor having support surfaces for supporting at least two axially aligned rod-shaped segments of the aerosol generating article, Equipped with a spacer, The device is configured to move the spacer from a storage position to an operating position, and the spacer provides a means for contacting the rod-shaped segment on the support surface. An apparatus in which the conveyor is equipped with the spacer.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor is provided with a storage cavity for accommodating the spacer, at least when the spacer is in the storage position.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the storage position, the spacer is on the same plane as the support surface or retracted below the support surface, and in the operating position, the spacer protrudes from the support surface.
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor is equipped with a cam, and the cam is adapted to move the spacer from the storage position to the operating position.
5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor comprises a drum adapted to rotate around a rotation axis.
6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the drum comprises the spacer, and the drum is adapted to rotate relative to the cam such that the spacer rotates around the cam.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor comprises grooves forming the support surface, and the grooves are adapted to receive the rod-shaped segments of the aerosol generating article.
8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the spacer is arranged such that it protrudes into the groove at the operating position.
9. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a spring, wherein the spring is adapted to bias the spacer toward the storage position.
10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a suction hole is provided on the support surface.
11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conveyor is configured to transport the rod-shaped segments along the transport direction, and the rod-shaped segments are arranged perpendicular to the transport direction.
12. A method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, A step of providing a first rod-shaped segment, A step of providing a second rod-shaped segment, A step of aligning the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment axially on the support surface of the conveyor, The process involves arranging a spacer, which is part of the conveyor, between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. A step of removing the spacer, wherein a predetermined distance is established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment. A method comprising the step of connecting the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment with a bridging element such that a gap of the predetermined distance is provided between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment.
13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of connecting the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment with a bridging element includes: attaching the bridging element to both the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment; rotating the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment; and thereby winding the bridging element around the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment.
14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein a third rod-shaped segment is provided, the second rod-shaped segment is disposed between the first rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment, the spacer is provided between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, the second spacer is provided between the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment, the two spacers are removed so that a gap of a predetermined distance is established between the first rod-shaped segment and the second rod-shaped segment, and a second gap of a second predetermined distance is established between the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment, and the first rod-shaped segment, the second rod-shaped segment and the third rod-shaped segment are connected by winding the bridging element.
15. A method for using a spacer in an apparatus for manufacturing an aerosol generating article to establish a predetermined gap between an aerosol generating substrate segment and a filter segment, wherein the spacer is part of a conveyor.