Apparatus and method for destemming tobacco leaves
The destemming apparatus uses a cylindrical case with rotating shaft elements to roll tobacco leaves, addressing high energy consumption and stress issues, reducing emissions and costs, and simplifying the destemming process.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS SA
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-08
AI Technical Summary
Existing destemming machines for tobacco leaves require high energy consumption, cause excessive stress and shearing, and result in carbon dioxide emissions, while also being costly and complex in design.
A destemming apparatus comprising a cylindrical case with rotating shaft elements that roll tobacco leaves to separate stems from blades, reducing shearing and peeling actions, and allowing for a single-unit processing step.
The apparatus reduces energy consumption, minimizes stress on leaves, decreases carbon dioxide emissions, and simplifies the destemming process, enabling efficient and cost-effective tobacco leaf preparation.
Smart Images
Figure 2026522619000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for removing stems from tobacco leaves. The present disclosure also relates to a method for removing stems from tobacco leaves. The apparatus and method belong to the field of industrial tobacco cultivation for manufacturing tobacco products such as conventional combustion-type tobacco, heated tobacco, and chewable tobacco.
Background Art
[0002] In the tobacco industry, it is well known that in the manufacture of tobacco products, it is necessary to perform a process of removing the stems from the tobacco leaves in order to process the tobacco into a shape suitable for use.
[0003] A conventional method of separating tobacco leaves from the stems is to use a stem remover in which a rotor having metal teeth rotates with respect to a basket. The tobacco leaves pass through the basket and are cut smaller by the metal teeth. The tobacco leaves are collected in a large container disposed in the lower half of the stem remover. Thereafter, the tobacco leaves are sent to a sorter using a vertical air flow, and the tobacco leaves are classified according to weight (the lightweight leaf bodies without stems are sent to the next process, and the heavy leaf bodies containing stems are passed through the stem remover again), and this process is repeated until all the smallest fragments of the leaf bodies are removed from the stems. After stem removal, the stemmed leaf bodies are recombined with the tips of the leaf bodies that had been cut off in advance and are conveyed for re-drying.
[0004] Stem removal involves conditioning the tobacco with heat and moisture so that it is soft enough to enter the stem remover and the stems are properly removed within the stem remover. If an appropriate amount of moisture is not maintained, the stems of the tobacco leaves will not be properly removed. Therefore, a high water content is required for industrial stem removal.
[0005] WO98 / 26677A1 discloses a device for defoliating tobacco. The device comprises a drum that rotates counterclockwise around a substantially horizontal axis. A series of lifting lugs are attached to the inner surface of the drum. Elements that rotate in opposite directions in cooperation form a feeder that supplies leaves. The elements that rotate in opposite directions comprise arms that extend radially along the entire length of the drum. Leaves are fed from between the elements that rotate in opposite directions into a detachment means having its own arms. The detachment means rotates in the same direction as the drum. The feeder and detachment means are arranged so that, in use, tobacco leaves are subjected to a shearing force as they pass from between the elements that rotate in opposite directions into the rotating detachment means, and this shearing force causes a portion of the leaf blade to detach from the stem. Tobacco leaves are fed into one end of the drum and defoliated along the entire length of the drum, and any defoliated leaves that have not yet been discharged through a screen in the drum wall are discharged from the other end of the drum. The lengths of the elements and detachment means may be shorter than the entire length of the drum.
[0006] A device and method for destemming tobacco leaves is desired that can reduce the energy required for separating the leaf blade from the stem.
[0007] Apparatus and methods for destemming tobacco leaves are desirable, which can reduce the number of devices used for this purpose, the associated costs, and the overall size of these devices.
[0008] Furthermore, it is desirable to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions from the equipment configured to destem tobacco leaves, and consequently, reduce the carbon dioxide emissions from the production line.
[0009] A device and method for destemming tobacco leaves is desirable that avoids subjecting them to excessive stress that could damage them.
[0010] A device and method for destemming tobacco leaves that can perform this process without breaking the stems is desirable.
[0011] A device and method for destemming tobacco leaves by reducing the shearing action on the leaves is desirable. [Overview of the Initiative]
[0012] This disclosure relates to an apparatus for destemming tobacco leaves.
[0013] A device for destemming tobacco leaves comprises a support structure configured to be placed on a base or on the ground, and a cylindrical case having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The cylindrical case defines the extent of the inner chamber. The cylindrical case is mounted on the support structure and rotates about the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be horizontal or inclined with respect to the ground. The cylindrical case comprises at least one or more mesh walls. The cylindrical case may have multiple elements protruding into the interior of the inner chamber. The support structure may have an inlet opening configured for tobacco leaves to enter. The inlet opening may be configured for tobacco leaves to enter at the proximal end of the cylindrical case.
[0014] The device for destemming tobacco leaves is located inside a cylindrical case and comprises a single shaft with multiple shaft elements extending from the aforementioned shaft. The shaft is rotatable around its respective main axis and relative to the cylindrical case.
[0015] A device for destemming tobacco leaves comprises a cylindrical case and at least one motor operably connected to a shaft. The at least one motor is configured to rotate the cylindrical case and shaft in opposite directions to separate the leaf blade from the tobacco leaf stem by causing the leaf to roll inside the cylindrical case.
[0016] The inventors found that this device for destemming tobacco leaves allows the stems to be separated from the leaf blades by causing the leaves to roll around inside the cylindrical case while they are being transported along the aforementioned cylindrical case.
[0017] The inventors found that this device for destemming tobacco leaves allows for the separation of the stem from the leaf blade by eliminating or at least dramatically reducing the peeling and shearing action on the leaf, and without breaking / destemming the stem. In fact, the device is designed to gradually lift or hold the leaf, providing effective rolling rather than destemming. The elements and shaft elements are used to transport and roll the leaf within a cylindrical case.
[0018] The inventors found that, at least the peeling and shearing performed by conventional destemming machines requires applying greater force to the leaves and therefore requires a higher power supply, thus enabling this device for destemming tobacco leaves to reduce time and energy consumption compared to conventional destemming machines.
[0019] The inventors found that this device for destemming tobacco leaves allows for the separation of the leaf blade from the stem through a single device and a single-unit rotary processing step, which is simpler and less expensive than prior art destemming machines.
[0020] Therefore, the inventors found that this device for destemming tobacco leaves reduces carbon dioxide emissions associated with destemming tobacco leaves, and thus reduces carbon dioxide emissions from the production line.
[0021] Therefore, the inventors discovered that this device for destemming tobacco leaves also works synergistically with industrial hardening processes to allow for better control of destemming, providing a product suitable for use in tobacco manufacturing companies.
[0022] In fact, by adopting this device, it becomes possible to combine hardening and destemming operations in the same facility. This device enables destemming of tobacco leaves in industries where it can be installed near tobacco manufacturing and hardening points.
[0023] In some embodiments, the main axis of the shaft and the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case overlap, or the shaft is coaxial with the cylindrical case. In some other embodiments, the main axis of the shaft and the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case are parallel and close to each other.
[0024] The inventors found that the central position of the shaft relative to the cylindrical case allows the tobacco leaves to move, rise, roll, and shuffle, while limiting peeling and shearing action on the leaves.
[0025] In some embodiments, the cylindrical case rotates clockwise and the shaft rotates counterclockwise. In some other embodiments, the cylindrical case rotates counterclockwise and the shaft rotates clockwise.
[0026] Multiple shaft elements are located along at least a portion of the shaft. Multiple shaft elements are located along the entire shaft.
[0027] In some embodiments, the shaft begins at the proximal end of the cylindrical case and extends only partially along the cylindrical case. The shaft may have a first end located at or near the proximal end of the cylindrical case. The shaft may have a second end located within the inner chamber. In some embodiments, the ratio of the axial length of the shaft to the overall axial length of the cylindrical case is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, optionally 1 / 3.
[0028] The cylindrical case may include a first portion near the proximal end, and the plurality of elements are located only in the aforementioned first portion of the cylindrical case. The aforementioned first portion of the cylindrical case near the proximal end may have an axial length equal to or close to the axial length of the shaft. The ratio of the axial length of the aforementioned first portion to the overall axial length of the cylindrical case may be 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, optionally 1 / 3. The aforementioned first portion of the cylindrical case near the proximal end may be at least partially made of a solid wall or may include a solid cover that prevents the tobacco leaves from passing through. The remaining second portion of the cylindrical case extending from the first portion to the distal end is made of at least one mesh wall or includes at least one mesh wall.
[0029] The inventors have found that the leaves are shuffled, the lumps of leaves are deaggregated in the first portion, and carried by the elements and the shaft elements against the wall of the cylindrical case, while in the subsequent remaining second portion of the cylindrical case, the leaves are lifted by the wall and fall to the bottom of the cylindrical case. In the remaining second portion, the rotational movement of the cylindrical case maintains the rolling of the leaves, and this rolling separates the stem from the leaf blade and breaks the leaf blade into small pieces.
[0030] In some embodiments, the different mesh walls have different characteristics, such as different structures, different shapes and / or sizes of the mesh openings, different void-to-solid ratios, etc. The mesh openings may be square.
[0031] At least one mesh may have openings with sizes in the range of 10 mm to 60 mm. The size may be the length of the side of the square opening. The void-to-solid ratio of at least one mesh wall may decrease as it moves from the proximal end to the distal end of the cylindrical case.
[0032] The inventors found that the mesh or mesh openings allow leaf blade fragments to pass through and exit the cylindrical case as the stem moves toward the distal end of the cylindrical case. The leaf blade fragments are collected below the cylindrical case. If the mesh or mesh has different characteristics, leaf blade fragments of different sizes may therefore exit the cylindrical case at different axial portions of the cylindrical case. The mesh size and type can be adapted to the incoming product, which may be somewhat fragile depending on the stem position.
[0033] In some embodiments, the cylindrical case is elongated. The ratio of the inner diameter of the cylindrical case to the overall axial length of the cylindrical case may be 1 / 3 to 2 / 3, and optionally 1 / 3 to 1 / 2.
[0034] The inventors discovered that the elongated cylindrical case allows for gradual and time-dependent destemming of the leaves, thus preventing abrupt peeling and shearing, and enabling complete and precise destemming in a single device.
[0035] The element may be fixed to the cylindrical case, integrated with the cylindrical case, or stationary relative to the cylindrical case. The element may also be radial with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case.
[0036] The elements may be rod-shaped, and optionally, they may be straight rods. The elements may also be flat rods or rods with a circular cross-section.
[0037] In some embodiments, the elements are arranged in multiple continuities along a line parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case. The continuities may be evenly spaced from one another in the circumferential direction. One element in a continuity may be axially offset from an element in an adjacent continuity. Optionally, the ratio of the length of the element to the inner radius of the cylindrical case is 1 / 8 to 1 / 4, and optionally 1 / 3.
[0038] The shaft element may be fixed to the shaft, integrated with the shaft, or stationary relative to the shaft. The shaft element may project radially from the shaft.
[0039] The shaft element may be rod-shaped, and optionally it may be a straight rod. The shaft element may be a flat rod or a rod with a circular cross-section. The free end of the shaft element may be near the cylindrical case. The gap between the free end of the shaft element and the cylindrical case may be 10 mm to 450 mm. The ratio of the length of the shaft element to the inner radius of the cylindrical case may be 0.8 to 0.99, optionally 0.9.
[0040] In some embodiments, the shaft elements are offset axially from one another along the shaft. Optionally, each axial portion of the shaft comprises a single shaft element. According to some embodiments, the shaft elements are arranged along a helical path along the shaft.
[0041] In some embodiments, when the cylindrical case and shaft rotate in opposite directions, the free end of a shaft element may move between the free ends of adjacent elements. Optionally, the free end of a shaft element is axially separated from the free end of an adjacent element by a distance of more than 150 mm. Optionally, the aforementioned distance is between 0 mm and 200 mm. When the cylindrical case and shaft rotate in opposite directions, the free ends of shaft elements may overlap by a radial distance. Optionally, the ratio of the aforementioned radial distance to the inner radius of the cylindrical case is between 0.05 and 0.2, and optionally 0.1.
[0042] The inventors found that these shapes, sizes, and positions of the elements and shaft elements promote leaf shuffling, rolling, and shedding, as well as the de-aggregation of leaf clumps, while limiting leaf detachment and shearing.
[0043] In some embodiments, the cylindrical case comprises a frame and a plurality of walls mounted on the frame and separating the inner chambers. Optionally, the walls are mounted on the frame so that they can be removed from and replaced.
[0044] The inventors found that by replacing the walls, the same apparatus could be adapted according to the characteristics and / or volume of tobacco leaves being processed.
[0045] In some embodiments, the frame comprises annular elements coaxial with the longitudinal axis and longitudinal elements connecting the annular elements to each other. Walls are connected to the aforementioned annular elements and / or longitudinal elements.
[0046] The inventors discovered that this structure was lightweight and inexpensive.
[0047] In some embodiments, the wall includes or is defined by at least one mesh wall or a plurality of mesh walls. The wall may also include at least one solid wall, optionally a plurality of solid walls, to prevent tobacco leaves from passing through.
[0048] In some embodiments, the walls have an arched shape. Optionally, the walls may have a cylindrical or semi-cylindrical shape. Multiple arched walls, when mounted on a frame, can form a cylindrical portion of a cylindrical case. In some embodiments, the cylindrical case comprises multiple cylindrical portions positioned sequentially along the longitudinal axis.
[0049] In some embodiments, the cylindrical case comprises a central shaft extending along its longitudinal axis and fixed to a frame. The central shaft may have a first end located at the distal end of the cylindrical case and a second end located within the inner chamber. The first end of the central shaft may be rotatably supported by a support structure. The second end of the central shaft may be pivotally connected to the second end of the shaft so that the central shaft and the shaft can rotate in opposite directions. The second end of the central shaft may be supported by the frame, optionally through a radial support. The first end of the shaft may be rotatably supported by a support structure and / or by a sleeve connected to the cylindrical case through a radial support.
[0050] The inventors also found that, in addition to being lightweight and inexpensive, this structure was rigid enough to perform its task properly.
[0051] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one conveyor located beneath the cylindrical case to receive leaf blades separated from the stem and passing through at least one or more mesh walls. The at least one conveyor may extend along a conveying direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case, or along a conveying direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case. The at least one conveyor may comprise a plurality of conveyors located at different locations beneath the cylindrical case. The at least one conveyor may include a conveyor belt, the upper branch of which faces the cylindrical case.
[0052] In some embodiments, the conveyor comprises at least one first conveyor configured to transport leaf blades that pass through one or more mesh walls and fall onto the aforementioned first conveyor, and a second conveyor configured to transport stems that pass through one or more mesh walls or through a distal opening on the distal end of a cylindrical case and fall onto the aforementioned second conveyor.
[0053] The inventors found that a conveyor or a conveyor system could automatically transport already separated leaf blades and stems for further processing.
[0054] The device may also include coverage that encloses at least partially a cylindrical case. The coverage may be fixed to a support structure.
[0055] The inventors found that the purpose of coverage is to avoid tobacco loss and to guide the tobacco through the mesh or through the mesh to the bottom of the cylindrical case.
[0056] In some embodiments, the device comprises rollers rotatably mounted on a support structure, and a cylindrical case is supported on the aforementioned rollers. The cylindrical case may have an annular track coaxial with its longitudinal axis and engaging with the peripheral surface of the rollers. The annular track may be part of a frame or wall.
[0057] The inventors found this to be a simple and reliable structure for supporting and rotating a cylindrical case.
[0058] In some embodiments, at least one motor is mounted on a support structure.
[0059] In some embodiments, at least one motor comprises a first motor operably connected to a cylindrical case and a second motor operably connected to a shaft.
[0060] In some embodiments, the device includes a cap mounted on and fixed to a support structure. The cap closes the proximal end of the cylindrical case, and the inlet opening may be formed in the shape of a cap.
[0061] In some embodiments, the cylindrical case is mounted on a support structure such that its longitudinal axis is inclined downward from the proximal end to the distal end of the cylindrical case at an angle of inclination. Optionally, the angle of inclination is adjustable. Optionally, the angle of inclination is between 0 and 10 degrees. The angle of inclination may be adjusted for the product residence time inside the cylindrical case, and may also be varied depending on the load and tobacco characteristics.
[0062] The inventors found that the incline facilitates the flow of tobacco toward the distal end of the cylindrical case, and that the aforementioned incline angle can be adjusted according to the volume being processed and / or other characteristics of the tobacco leaves.
[0063] This disclosure also relates to a method of destemming tobacco leaves carried out through a device for destemming tobacco leaves, the device for destemming tobacco leaves comprising a support structure configured to be placed on a base or on the ground, and a cylindrical case having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The cylindrical case defines the extent of the inner chamber. The cylindrical case is mounted on the support structure and rotates about the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be horizontal or inclined with respect to the ground. The cylindrical case comprises at least one or more mesh walls. The cylindrical case may have multiple elements protruding into the interior of the inner chamber. The support structure may have an inlet opening configured at the proximal end of the cylindrical case for tobacco leaves to enter. The device for destemming tobacco leaves comprises a single shaft located inside the cylindrical case and comprising multiple shaft elements extending from the shaft. The shaft is rotatable about its respective principal axis and relative to the cylindrical case. The device for destemming tobacco leaves comprises at least one motor operably coupled to the cylindrical case and the shaft. At least one motor is configured to rotate the cylindrical case and shaft in opposite directions in order to separate the leaf blade from the tobacco leaf stem by causing the leaf to roll inside the cylindrical case.
[0064] An apparatus for destemming tobacco leaves, used to carry out a method for destemming tobacco leaves, may include one or more of the features disclosed above.
[0065] The method may include introducing tobacco leaves into a cylindrical case through an inlet opening, and activating at least one motor to rotate the cylindrical case and shaft in opposite directions so that the leaf blades of the tobacco leaves are separated from the aforementioned stems and the leaf blades and stems are sieved through a mesh wall or multiple mesh walls.
[0066] The method may include introducing a mass of tobacco leaves into an inner chamber of a cylindrical case, and de-aggregating the mass of tobacco leaves through a plurality of elements protruding from the cylindrical case into the inner chamber, and a plurality of shaft elements extending from a single shaft located inside the cylindrical case, and by rotating the cylindrical case and the aforementioned shaft in opposite directions.
[0067] The method may also include separating the stems from the tobacco leaf blades by shuffling the tobacco leaves in the inner chamber by raising the tobacco leaves up the wall of a cylindrical case and then dropping the tobacco leaves, where the raising is performed by rotating the cylindrical case.
[0068] The method may include sieving the leaf blades and / or parts of the stems of tobacco leaves through at least one mesh wall of a cylindrical case.
[0069] In some embodiments, the leaf blade passes through a mesh wall or multiple mesh walls, and the stem moves toward the distal end of the cylindrical case. Optionally, the stem exits through a distal opening at the distal end of the cylindrical case.
[0070] In some embodiments, leaf blades passing through a mesh wall or multiple mesh walls fall onto at least one first conveyor and are transported.
[0071] In some embodiments, the stems fall onto a second conveyor and are transported thereafter. The second conveyor may be located downstream of at least one first conveyor with respect to movement along the cylindrical case.
[0072] In some embodiments, the tobacco leaves are dry when introduced into the cylindrical case. Optionally, the moisture content of the tobacco leaves is 5% to 25%, optionally less than 15%, or optionally less than 10% when introduced into the cylindrical case.
[0073] The residence time of the elements and shaft elements, dimensions, inclination of the apparatus, and configuration may be adjusted according to the volume and characteristics of the tobacco leaves being processed.
[0074] The disclosure also relates to a tobacco production line comprising an apparatus for destemming tobacco leaves according to the above disclosure and / or employing a method for destemming tobacco leaves according to the above disclosure.
[0075] The tobacco production line may include a series of pneumatic separators and / or sieves and / or dryers and / or packing lines connected downstream of the equipment for destemming tobacco leaves.
[0076] As used herein, the term “mesh” referring to a wall or wall means a structure having a net-like or web-like pattern with evenly spaced holes and acting as a sieve to allow the passage of small parts and prevent the passage of larger parts.
[0077] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component of an apparatus, or a portion of a component, with respect to the direction in which a material passes through the apparatus along a given path. [Examples]
[0078] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.
[0079] Example 1. A device for destemming tobacco leaves, A support structure configured to be placed on a base or on the ground, A cylindrical case having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end opposite the proximal end, wherein the cylindrical case partitions an inner chamber, the cylindrical case is mounted on a support structure and rotates about the longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis is horizontal to the ground or inclined, the cylindrical case comprises at least one mesh wall, optionally multiple mesh walls, and the cylindrical case comprises multiple elements protruding into the interior of the inner chamber, A single shaft, located inside a cylindrical case, comprising multiple shaft elements extending from the aforementioned shaft, each rotatable around its own principal axis and relative to the cylindrical case, and, The invention comprises at least one motor operably connected to a cylindrical case and shaft, configured to rotate the cylindrical case and shaft in opposite directions in order to separate the tobacco leaf blade from the stem by causing the leaves to roll inside the cylindrical case, A device in which the support structure optionally has an inlet opening configured to accept tobacco leaves, and optionally the inlet opening is located at the proximal end of a cylindrical case. Example 2. The apparatus according to Embodiment 1, wherein the main axis of the shaft and the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case are parallel and close to each other, or the main axis of the shaft and the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case overlap, or the shaft is coaxial with the cylindrical case. Example 3. The apparatus according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the cylindrical case rotates clockwise and the shaft rotates counterclockwise, or the cylindrical case rotates counterclockwise and the shaft rotates clockwise. Example 4. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein multiple shaft elements are positioned along at least a portion of the shaft and optionally along the entire shaft. Example 5. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the shaft starts from the proximal end of the cylindrical case and extends only partially along the cylindrical case, optionally having a first end located at or near the proximal end of the cylindrical case, and optionally having a second end located within the inner chamber. Example 6. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the ratio of the axial length of the shaft to the overall axial length of the cylindrical case is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, and optionally 1 / 3. Example 7. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the shaft extends only in the first portion of the cylindrical case near the proximal end. Example 8. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the cylindrical case comprises a first portion near the proximal end, and a plurality of elements are located only in the aforementioned first portion of the cylindrical case. Example 9. The apparatus according to Example 7 or Example 8, wherein the aforementioned first portion of the cylindrical case near the proximal end has an axial length equal to or close to the axial length of the shaft. Example 10. The apparatus according to any of Examples 7 to 9, wherein the aforementioned first portion of the cylindrical case near the proximal end is made of at least partially solid walls or comprises a solid cover that prevents tobacco leaves from passing through. Example 11. The apparatus according to any of Examples 7 to 10, wherein the ratio of the axial length of the aforementioned first part to the overall axial length of the cylindrical case is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, and optionally 1 / 3. Example 12. The apparatus according to any of Examples 7 to 11, wherein the remaining second portion of the cylindrical case extending from the first portion to the distal end is made of at least one mesh wall, or includes at least one mesh wall. Example 13. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the different mesh walls have different characteristics such as different structures, different shapes and / or sizes of mesh openings, different void-to-solid ratios, and optionally, at least one mesh has openings in the range of 10 mm to 60 mm in size. Example 14. The apparatus according to Example 13, wherein the mesh opening is square and its size is the length of the side of the square opening. Example 15. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the void-to-solid ratio of at least one mesh wall decreases as it moves from the proximal end to the distal end of the cylindrical case. Example 16. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the cylindrical case is elongated, and optionally the ratio of the inner diameter of the cylindrical case to the overall axial length of the cylindrical case is 1 / 3 to 2 / 3, or optionally 1 / 3 to 1 / 2. Example 17. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the elements are fixed to a cylindrical case, integrated with a cylindrical case, or stationary relative to a cylindrical case. Example 18. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the elements are radial with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case. Example 19. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the element is rod-shaped, and optionally a straight rod, optionally a flat rod, or optionally a rod having a circular cross-section. Example 20. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the elements are arranged in multiple successive rows along a line parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case. Example 21. The apparatus according to Example 20, wherein one element of the continuum is offset axially with respect to adjacent elements of the continuum. Example 22. The apparatus according to Example 20 or Example 21, wherein the continuous elements are evenly spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction. Example 23. The apparatus described in Examples 1 to 22, wherein the ratio of the element length to the inner radius of the cylindrical case is 1 / 8 to 1 / 4, and optionally 1 / 6. Example 24. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the shaft element is fixed to the shaft, integrated with the shaft, or stationary relative to the shaft. Example 25. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the shaft elements protrude radially from the shaft. Example 26. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 25, wherein the shaft element is rod-shaped and can be a straight rod, a flat rod, or a rod with a circular cross-section. Example 27. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 26, wherein the free end of the shaft element is close to the cylindrical case. Example 28. The apparatus according to Example 27, wherein the gap between the free end of the shaft element and the cylindrical case is 10 mm to 450 mm. Example 29. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the ratio of the length of the shaft element to the inner radius of the cylindrical case is 0.8 to 0.99, and optionally 0.9. Example 30. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 29, wherein the shaft elements are axially offset from one another along the shaft, and optionally each axial portion of the shaft includes a single shaft element, and optionally the shaft elements are arranged along a helical path along the shaft. Example 31. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 30, wherein when the cylindrical case and shaft rotate in opposite directions, the free end of the shaft element moves between the free ends of adjacent elements. Example 32. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 31, wherein the free ends of the shaft elements are spaced axially at a distance of 0 mm to 200 mm, at a distance exceeding 150 mm from the free ends of adjacent elements. Example 33. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 32, wherein when the cylindrical case and shaft rotate in opposite directions, the free ends of the shaft elements and the free ends of the elements overlap by a radial distance, and the ratio of the aforementioned radial distance to the inner radius of the cylindrical case is 0.05 to 0.2, and optionally 0.1. Example 34. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 33, wherein the cylindrical case comprises a frame and a plurality of walls mounted on the frame and separating an inner chamber. Example 35. The apparatus according to Embodiment 34, wherein the wall is mounted on a frame so that it can be removed from the frame and replaced. Example 36. The apparatus according to Embodiment 34 or Embodiment 35, wherein the frame comprises annular elements coaxial with the longitudinal axis and longitudinal elements connecting the annular elements to each other, and the walls are connected to the aforementioned annular elements and / or longitudinal elements. Example 37. The apparatus according to any of Examples 34 to 36, wherein the wall includes or is defined by at least one mesh wall or a plurality of mesh walls. Example 38. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 34 to 37, wherein the wall comprises at least one solid wall, and optionally multiple solid walls, that prevent tobacco leaves from passing through. Example 39. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 34 to 38, wherein the wall has an arch shape, optionally a cylindrical shape, or a semi-cylindrical shape. Example 40. The apparatus according to Embodiment 39, wherein multiple arch-shaped walls, when mounted on a frame, form a cylindrical portion of a cylindrical case. Example 41. The apparatus according to Embodiment 40, wherein the cylindrical case comprises a plurality of cylindrical portions positioned sequentially along the longitudinal axis. Example 42. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 34 to 41, wherein the cylindrical case comprises a central shaft extending along its longitudinal axis and fixed to a frame, the central shaft having a first tip located at the distal end of the cylindrical case and a second tip located within an inner chamber. Example 43. The apparatus according to Embodiment 42, wherein the first tip of the central shaft is rotatably supported by a support structure. Example 44. The apparatus according to Example 42 or Example 43, in which Example 34 follows Example 5, wherein the second end of the central shaft is pivotably connected to the second end of the shaft so that the central shaft and the shaft can rotate in opposite directions. Example 45. The apparatus according to Embodiment 44, wherein the second end of the central shaft is supported by the frame through radial supports as needed. Example 46. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 45, wherein the first end of the shaft is rotatably supported by a support structure and / or by a sleeve connected to a cylindrical case through a radial support. Example 47. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 46, comprising at least one conveyor located below a cylindrical case for receiving leaf blades separated from the stem and passing through at least one or more mesh walls. Example 48. The apparatus according to Embodiment 47, wherein at least one conveyor extends in a conveying direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case, or along a conveying direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical case. Example 49. The apparatus according to Example 47 or Example 48, wherein at least one conveyor comprises a conveyor belt, the upper branch of the conveyor belt facing a cylindrical case. Example 50. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 47 to 49, wherein at least one conveyor comprises multiple conveyors located at different locations beneath the cylindrical case. Example 51. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 47 to 50, comprising: at least one first conveyor configured to transport leaf blades falling onto the first conveyor by passing through one or more mesh walls; and a second conveyor configured to transport stems falling onto the second conveyor by passing through one or more mesh walls or through a distal opening on the distal end of a cylindrical case. Example 52. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 51, comprising coverage that at least partially encloses a cylindrical case. Example 53. The apparatus according to Example 51, wherein the coverage is fixed to the support structure. Example 54. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 53, comprising rollers rotatably mounted on a support structure, wherein a cylindrical case is supported on the aforementioned rollers. Example 55. The apparatus according to Embodiment 54, wherein the cylindrical case is coaxial with the longitudinal axis and has an annular track that engages with the peripheral surface of the roller. Example 56. The apparatus according to Example 55, where Example 54 follows any of Examples 34 to 45, wherein the ring track is part of the frame or wall. Example 57. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 56, wherein at least one motor comprises a first motor operably connected to a cylindrical case and a second motor operably connected to a shaft. Example 58. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 57, wherein at least one motor is mounted on a support structure. Example 59. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 58, comprising a cap mounted on a support structure and fixed to the support structure, wherein the cap closes the proximal end of a cylindrical case and the inlet opening is formed in the shape of a cap. Example 60. The apparatus according to any of Examples 1 to 59, wherein a cylindrical case is mounted on a support structure such that its longitudinal axis is inclined downward from the proximal end to the distal end of the cylindrical case at an inclination angle, and the aforementioned inclination angle can be adjusted as needed. Example 61. The apparatus according to Example 60, wherein the inclination angle is 0° to 10°. Example 62. A method for destemming tobacco leaves through one or more of the apparatus described in Examples 1 to 61. Example 63. Tobacco leaves are introduced into the cylindrical case through the entrance opening, The method of Example 62, comprising activating at least one motor to rotate a cylindrical case and shaft in opposite directions so that the tobacco leaf blades are separated from the aforementioned tobacco leaf stems and the leaf blades and stems are sieved through one or more mesh walls. Example 64. Introducing a mass of tobacco leaves into the inner chamber of the cylindrical case, The method involves de-aggregating a clump of tobacco leaves through multiple elements protruding from the cylindrical case into the inner chamber, and multiple shaft elements extending from a single shaft located inside the cylindrical case, and by rotating the cylindrical case and the aforementioned shaft in opposite directions. The separation of the tobacco leaves from the leaf blades is achieved by shuffling the tobacco leaves in the inner chamber by raising the tobacco leaves on the wall of a cylindrical case and then dropping them, where the raising is carried out by rotating the cylindrical case. The method of Example 62 or Example 63, comprising sieving the leaf blades and / or parts of the stems of tobacco leaves through at least one mesh wall of a cylindrical case. Example 65. The method according to Example 63 or Example 64, wherein the leaf blade passes through one or more mesh walls, the stem moves toward the distal end of the cylindrical case, and optionally the stem exits through the distal opening on the distal end of the cylindrical case. Example 66. The method according to any one of Examples 63 to 65, wherein leaf blades passing through one or more mesh walls fall onto and are transported on at least one first conveyor. Example 67. The method according to any one of Examples 63 to 66, wherein the stems are dropped onto a second conveyor and transported. Example 68. The method according to Embodiment 67, wherein the second conveyor is positioned downstream of at least one first conveyor for movement along a cylindrical case. Example 69. The method according to any one of Examples 63 to 68, wherein the tobacco leaves are dry when introduced into the cylindrical case. Example 70. The method according to any one of Examples 63 to 69, wherein the moisture content of the tobacco leaves when introduced into a cylindrical case is 5% to 25%, optionally less than 15%, optionally less than 15%. Example 71. A tobacco production line comprising an apparatus for destemming tobacco leaves as described in any of Examples 1 to 61, and / or employing a method for destemming tobacco leaves as described in any of Examples 63 to 70. Example 72. A tobacco production line of Example 71, comprising a feeding line connected to the inlet opening of a device for destemming tobacco leaves. Example 73. A tobacco production line of Example 71 or Example 72, comprising a pneumatic separator and / or sieve and / or dryer and / or packing line connected in a row downstream of a device for destemming tobacco leaves.
[0080] Here, we will further describe the examples with reference to the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0081] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of the apparatus for destemming tobacco leaves according to the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional (3D) view of the two elements of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view of one of the elements in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a three-dimensional (3D) view of another element of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view of the element shown in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-section of Figure 1 according to Plane II. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a magnified view of a portion of the apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a plan view of a tobacco production line equipped with the apparatus shown in the previous figure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0082] The apparatus 1 shown in Figures 1-9 is a device for destemming tobacco leaves. The apparatus 1 comprises a support structure 2 configured to be placed on a base or on the ground "G", and a cylindrical case 3 mounted on the support structure 2 and partitioning the inner chamber. The cylindrical case 3 has a major axis "XX", a proximal end 4, and a distal end 5 opposite the proximal end 4. The cylindrical case 3 is elongated. The ratio of the inner diameter "d" of the cylindrical case 3 to the overall axial length "L4" of the cylindrical case 3 may be 1 / 3 to 2 / 3, or optionally 1 / 3 to 1 / 2.
[0083] The cylindrical case 3 is mounted on the support structure 2 such that the cylindrical case 3 can rotate around the major axis "XX" relative to the support structure 2.
[0084] In the exemplary embodiment shown in the attached Figure 2, the support structure 2 comprises a peripheral frame supported by four legs 8, having two longitudinal beams 6 and two transverse beams 7. Two additional transverse beams 9 connect the two longitudinal beams 6 and each carry a pair of upward-facing rollers 10. The four rollers 10 are rotatably mounted on the additional transverse beams 9, and the cylindrical case 3 is supported on the rollers 10. The cylindrical case 3 comprises two annular tracks 11 (Figures 2 and 3) that are coaxial with the longitudinal axis "XX" and engage with the peripheral surfaces of the rollers 10. A coverage 12, schematically shown only in Figure 1, is fixed to the support structure 2 and surrounds the cylindrical case 3. The rollers 10 are mounted on the additional transverse beams 9 such that the cylindrical case 3 can be inclined downward from the proximal end 4 to the distal end 5 of the cylindrical case 3 at an inclination angle "α" with respect to the horizontal plane, i.e., the ground "G". The tilt angle may be adjustable, for example, between 0 and 10 degrees.
[0085] The first motor 13 is operably connected to the cylindrical case 3 and is configured to rotate the cylindrical case 3 around the long axis "XX" relative to the support structure 2. In schematic Figure 1, the first motor 13 is mounted on the coverage 12 and is integrated with the cylindrical case 3 via a belt 14, or connected to the first end 15a of a central shaft 15 fixed to the cylindrical case 3. In the embodiment of Figure 2, the first motor 13 is mounted on the support structure 2 and connected to one of the rollers 13 to rotate the aforementioned roller 13, thereby rotating the cylindrical case 3 through the roller 13. The cylindrical case 3 rotates around the long axis "XX" while rolling on the roller 13.
[0086] The device 1 is mounted on a support structure 2 and includes a cap 16 fixed to the support structure 2. The cap 16 closes the proximal end 4 of the cylindrical case 3. The inlet opening 17 is formed in the shape of the cap 16 and is configured to allow tobacco leaves to enter the proximal end 4 of the cylindrical case 3. In schematic Figure 2, the cap 16 is shown as part of the cover 12, and the inlet opening 17 is separated by a chute or hopper mounted on the cap 16.
[0087] The cylindrical case 3 in schematic Figure 1 comprises a first portion 3a near the proximal end 4 and made of a solid wall (i.e., a wall without through passages), and a second portion 3b made of a mesh wall (i.e., a wall with multiple through passages). The first portion 3a and the second portion 3b are positioned sequentially along the longitudinal axis "XX". In other embodiments not shown, the first portion 3a includes a solid cover to prevent tobacco leaves from passing through.
[0088] The first part 3a comprises a plurality of continuous elements 18 projecting radially from the solid wall toward the longitudinal axis "XX". Each continuous comprises a plurality of elements 18 aligned along a line parallel to the longitudinal axis "XX". Different continuouss are arranged equally spaced from one another in the circumferential direction. Figure 1 shows a stationary cylindrical case 3 and an upper continuous positioned at an angle offset of 180° from the bottom continuous. Each element 18 is a straight rod, fixed to the cylindrical case 3 and stationary relative to the cylindrical case 3 in order to rotate with the cylindrical case 3. The rods may be flat or may have a circular cross-section.
[0089] Each continuity in Figure 1 extends along the entire length of the first section 3a. Each continuity in Figures 3 and 4 extends to half the length of the first section 3a, and one element 18 of a continuity is offset axially from an element 18 of an adjacent continuity. As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 7, the continuities are evenly spaced from one another in the circumferential direction.
[0090] The length "L1" of element 18 is such that it partially protrudes into the interior of the inner chamber. For example, the ratio of the length "L1" of element 18 to the inner radius "d / 2" of the cylindrical case 3 is between 1 / 8 and 1 / 4, and optionally 1 / 3.
[0091] The sole shaft 19 is located inside the first portion 3a. The principal axis of the shaft 19 coincides with the longitudinal axis "XX" of the cylindrical case 3, and the sole shaft 19 is coaxial with the cylindrical case 3. In other embodiments not shown in the drawings, the principal axis of the shaft 19 and the longitudinal axis "XX" of the cylindrical case 3 may be parallel and close to each other. In Figure 1, the first portion 3a of the cylindrical case 3 near the proximal end has an axial length equal to or close to the axial length "L3" of the shaft 19.
[0092] Multiple shaft elements 20 extend radially from the shaft 19. Each shaft element 20 is fixed to the shaft 19.
[0093] The shaft 19 in Figure 1 is better represented by Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8. The shaft elements 20 are flat, straight rods, and each axial portion of the shaft 19 comprises a single shaft element 20, which are axially offset from one another along the shaft 19, such that they are arranged along the entire shaft 19 or along a portion of the shaft 19 in a helical path.
[0094] The length "L2" of the shaft element 20 is such that the free end of the shaft element 20 is close to the cylindrical case 3. For example, the ratio of the length "L2" of the shaft element 20 to the inner radius "d / 2" of the cylindrical case 3 may be 0.8 to 0.99, or optionally 0.9, and the gap "L5" between the free end of the shaft element 20 and the cylindrical case 3 may be 10 mm to 450 mm. Each shaft element 20 is positioned axially between two adjacent elements 18 of the cylindrical case 3.
[0095] The shaft 19 is rotatable around its respective main axis relative to the cylindrical case 3 and the support structure 2.
[0096] The shaft 19 protrudes from the proximal end 4 of the cylindrical case 3, and the first end 21 of the shaft 19 is pivotably supported by the support structure 2. In Figure 1, the first end 21 of the shaft 19 is pivotably supported by the cover 12. The shaft 19 is also pivotally supported by a bushing 22 connected to the cylindrical case 3 through a radial support 23. The shaft 19 extends only partially along the cylindrical case 3, starting from the proximal end 4. The ratio of the axial length "L3" of the shaft 19, i.e., the portion of the shaft located inside the inner chamber, to the overall axial length "L4" of the cylindrical case 3 is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, optionally 1 / 3.
[0097] The second motor 24 is operably connected to the shaft 20 and rotates the shaft 20 around its respective main axis and in opposite directions relative to the cylindrical case 3. For example, the cylindrical case 3 rotates clockwise and the shaft 20 rotates counterclockwise, or the cylindrical case 3 rotates counterclockwise and the shaft 20 rotates clockwise. In Figure 1, the second motor 24 is mounted on a support structure 2 and connected to the first end 21 of the shaft 19 via a belt 25. In Figure 1, the second end 26 of the shaft 19 is pivotally connected to and supported by the second tip 15b of the central shaft 15, the second tip 15b of the central shaft 15 may be supported within the cylindrical case 3 via a radial support (not shown). In Figure 2, the second motor 24 is connected to the first end 21 of the shaft 19. The first tip of the central shaft is located at the distal end 5 of the cylindrical case 3.
[0098] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the cylindrical case 3 is constructed from a plurality of cylindrical sections 27a, 27b, 27c positioned sequentially along the longitudinal axis "XX". Each cylindrical section 27a, 27b, 27c is constructed from two semi-cylindrical sections, each including a frame and a mesh wall 28 and / or a solid wall 29 mounted on the frame. The frame comprises arched elements 30 and longitudinal elements 31.
[0099] The mesh wall 28 and / or solid wall 29 have an arch shape. The mesh wall 28 in Figures 3 and 4 resembles a net, such that the mesh openings are square. The openings have side sizes ranging from 10 mm to 60 mm. In other embodiments not shown, the apparatus may comprise different mesh walls having different features, such as different structures, different shapes and / or sizes of mesh openings, and different void-to-solid ratios.
[0100] The first cylindrical section 27a, shown in Figures 3 and 4, includes the first section 3a, which is provided with solid walls 29 and mesh walls 28. One annular track 11 is located on the solid wall 29 (Figures 2 and 3). The second cylindrical section 27b and the third cylindrical section 27c are shown in Figure 2. The second cylindrical section 27b includes a frame and mesh walls 28. The third cylindrical section 27c includes a frame, mesh walls 28, and another annular track 11.
[0101] Therefore, the cylindrical case 3 comprises a frame and several walls 28, 29 mounted on the frame that divide the inner chamber. The frame comprises annular elements, each made from two arched elements 30 and coaxial with the longitudinal axis "XX", and longitudinal axis elements 31 that connect the annular elements to each other. The walls 28, 29 are mounted on the frame so that the device can be easily adapted to the characteristics and / or volume of tobacco leaves being processed by removing and replacing the walls 28, 29 from the frame. The inclination angle "α" may also be adjusted for the product residence time inside the cylindrical case 3 and may vary depending on the load and tobacco characteristics.
[0102] The apparatus 1 further comprises two conveyors 32A and 32B located beneath the cylindrical case 3 to receive leaf blades separated from the stem and passing through the mesh wall 28. Figure 1 schematically shows two conveyors 32A and 32B. The conveyors 32A and 32B may also be equipped with conveyor belts, the upper branches of which face the cylindrical case 3.
[0103] Figure 9 shows a tobacco production line 33 equipped with a device 1 for destemming tobacco leaves. The tobacco production line 33 includes a supply conveyor 34 located upstream of the device 1 and ending at the inlet opening 17 of a cylindrical case 3. The supply conveyor 34 is configured to supply tobacco leaves to the proximal end 4 of the cylindrical case 3. A first conveyor 32A and a second conveyor 32B are partially located below the device 1. The first conveyor 32A extends transversely to the longitudinal axis "XX" of the cylindrical case 3 and is configured to transport leaf blades that fall onto the first conveyor 32A after passing through the mesh wall 28. The second conveyor 32B extends along a transport direction parallel to the longitudinal axis "XX" of the cylindrical case 3 and is configured to transport stems that fall onto the second conveyor 32B after passing through the mesh wall 28 or through the distal opening on the distal end 5 of the cylindrical case 3.
[0104] Downstream of the apparatus 1 for destemming tobacco leaves, the tobacco production line 33 may include one or more pneumatic separators 35, sieves 36, dryers 37, packing lines 38, weight belts 39, and laminators 40, which are well known and not described in detail.
[0105] During use, and according to the method of destemming the tobacco leaves, a mass of tobacco leaves is introduced into the cylindrical case 3 through the inlet opening by the supply conveyor 34. When introduced into the cylindrical case 3, the moisture content of the tobacco leaves is less than 15%, and may be less than 10%.
[0106] The first motor 13 and the second motor 24 are activated to rotate the cylindrical case 3 and the shaft 19 in opposite directions. In the first portion 3a of the cylindrical case 3, while the cylindrical case 3 and the aforementioned shaft 19 rotate in opposite directions, clumps of tobacco leaves are de-aggregated through multiple elements 18 protruding from the cylindrical case 3 into the interior of the inner chamber, and multiple shaft elements 20 extending from the single shaft 19 located inside the cylindrical case 3.
[0107] When the cylindrical case 3 and shaft 19 rotate in opposite directions, the free end of the shaft element 20 moves between the free end of the adjacent element 18 and the free end of the shaft element 20, overlapping by a radial distance "L6". The free end of the shaft element 20 is axially separated from the free end of the adjacent element 18 by, for example, 150 mm. The ratio of the radial distance "L6" to the inner radius "d / 2" of the cylindrical case is 0.05 to 0.2, and optionally 0.1.
[0108] By rotating the cylindrical case 3, the tobacco leaves are raised onto the walls of the cylindrical case 3 and then dropped, shuffling the tobacco leaves within the inner chamber. Thus, the stems are separated from the leaf blades.
[0109] The leaf blades pass through the mesh wall 28, and the stems move toward the distal end 5 of the cylindrical case 3 and exit through the distal opening on the distal end 5 of the cylindrical case 3. The leaf blades that pass through the mesh wall 28 fall onto the first conveyor 32A and are transported. The stems fall onto the second conveyor 32B and are transported.
[0110] In other embodiments, the void-to-solid ratio of the mesh wall 28 of the second section 3b decreases as it moves from the proximal end 4 to the distal end 5 of the cylindrical case 3, and multiple conveyors are located at different locations below the cylindrical case 3. In this way, the leaf blades are sieved, separated, and transported according to the size of the broken particles (i.e., larger particles upstream and smaller particles downstream).
[0111] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., are understood to be modified in all cases by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges within them, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, number A is understood as 5 percent of A ± A. In this context, number A may be considered to include a numerical value that falls within the general standard error of the measured value of the characteristic modified by number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation of A does not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges within them, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.
Claims
1. A device for destemming tobacco leaves, Support structure (2) configured to be placed on a base or on the ground (G), A cylindrical case (3) having a longitudinal axis (X-X), a proximal end (4), and a distal end (5) opposite the proximal end (4), wherein the cylindrical case (3) partitions an inner chamber, the cylindrical case (3) is mounted on the support structure (2) and rotates about the longitudinal axis (X-X), the longitudinal axis (X-X) is horizontal or inclined with respect to the ground (G), the cylindrical case (3) comprises at least one mesh wall (28), optionally a plurality of mesh walls (28), and the cylindrical case (3) comprises a plurality of elements (18) protruding into the interior of the inner chamber, A single shaft (19) located inside the cylindrical case (3), comprising a plurality of shaft elements (20) extending from the shaft (19), each rotatable about its own main axis and relative to the cylindrical case (3), The system comprises at least one motor (13, 24) operably connected to the cylindrical case (3) and the shaft (19), wherein the motor is configured to rotate the cylindrical case (3) and the shaft (19) in opposite directions in order to separate the leaf blade from the stem of the tobacco leaf by causing the leaf to roll inside the cylindrical case (3), The device wherein the support structure has an inlet opening (17) configured to allow tobacco leaves to enter, and the inlet opening (17) is located at the proximal end (4) of the cylindrical case (3).
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main axis of the shaft (19) and the longitudinal axis (X-X) of the cylindrical case (3) overlap.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the shaft (19) extends only in the first portion of the cylindrical case (3) near the proximal end (4).
4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ratio of the axial length (L3) of the shaft (19) to the overall axial length (L4) of the cylindrical case (3) is 1 / 4 to 1 / 2, and optionally 1 / 3.
5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cylindrical case (3) comprises a first portion (3a) near the proximal end (4), the plurality of elements (18) are located only in the first portion (3a) of the cylindrical case (3), and the first portion (3a) of the cylindrical case (3) near the proximal end (4) has an axial length equal to or close to the axial length (L3) of the shaft (19).
6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 5, wherein the first portion (3a) of the cylindrical case (3) near the proximal end (4) is made of at least a part of a solid wall (29) or is provided with a solid cover that prevents tobacco leaves from passing through.
7. The apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the remaining second portion (3b) of the cylindrical case (3) extending from the first portion (3a) to the distal end (5) is made of the at least one mesh wall (28) or comprises the at least one mesh wall (28).
8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the void-to-solid ratio of at least one mesh wall (28) decreases as it moves from the proximal end (4) to the distal end (5) of the cylindrical case (3).
9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cylindrical case (3) is elongated, and optionally the ratio of the inner diameter (d) of the cylindrical case (3) to the overall axial length (L4) of the cylindrical case (3) is 1 / 3 to 2 / 3.
10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the element (18) is arranged in a plurality of consecutive lines along a line parallel to the longitudinal axis (X-X) of the cylindrical case (3).
11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 10, wherein one of the elements (18) of the continuum is offset in the axial direction with respect to an adjacent element (18) of the continuum.
12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the free end of the shaft element (20) is close to the cylindrical case (3).
13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the ratio of the length (L2) of the shaft element (20) to the inner radius (d / 2) of the cylindrical case (3) is 0.8 to 0.
99.
14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each axial portion of the shaft (19) comprises a single shaft element (20), and the shaft elements (20) are optionally arranged along a helical path along the shaft (19).
15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the free end of the shaft element (20) is spaced axially at a distance of more than 150 mm from the free end of an adjacent element (18).
16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein when the cylindrical case (3) and the shaft (19) rotate in opposite directions, the free end of the shaft element (20) and the free end of the element (18) overlap by a radial distance (L6), and the ratio of the radial distance (L6) to the inner radius (d / 2) of the cylindrical case (3) is 0.05 to 0.
2.
17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the cylindrical case (3) comprises a frame and a plurality of walls (28, 29) mounted on the frame and separating the inner chamber, the walls (28, 29) being mounted on the frame such that the walls (28, 29) can be removed from the frame and replaced.
18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising at least one conveyor (32A, 32B) located below the cylindrical case (3) for receiving leaf blades separated from the stem and passing through at least one mesh wall (28) or the plurality of mesh walls (28).
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the at least one conveyor (32A, 32B) comprises at least one first conveyor (32A) configured to transport leaf blades that fall onto the first conveyor (32A) by passing through the mesh wall (28) or a plurality of mesh walls (28); and a second conveyor (32B) configured to transport stems that fall onto the second conveyor (32B) by passing through the mesh wall (28) or a plurality of mesh walls (28) or by passing through the distal opening on the distal end (5) of the cylindrical case (3).
20. A method for destemming tobacco leaves through the apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 19, Introducing a mass of tobacco leaves into the inner chamber of the cylindrical case (3), The aggregate of tobacco leaves is deaggregated by rotating the cylindrical case (3) and the shaft (19) in opposite directions, through the plurality of elements (18) that protrude from the cylindrical case (3) into the inner chamber, and through the plurality of shaft elements (20) that extend from the single shaft (19) located inside the cylindrical case (3). The tobacco leaves are raised onto the walls (28, 29) of the cylindrical case (3) and then dropped, thereby shuffling the tobacco leaves in the inner chamber and separating the stems from the leaf blades, the raising being done through the rotation of the cylindrical case (3), and the separation. A method comprising sieving the leaf blades and / or parts of the stems of the tobacco leaves through at least one mesh wall (28) of the cylindrical case (3).
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the leaf blade passes through the mesh wall (28) or a plurality of mesh walls (28), the stem moves toward the distal end (5) of the cylindrical case (3), and optionally the stem exits through the distal opening on the distal end (5) of the cylindrical case (3).
22. The method of claim 21, wherein leaf blades passing through the mesh wall (28) or a plurality of mesh walls (28) fall onto and are transported on at least one first conveyor (32A), and the stems fall onto and are transported on a second conveyor (32B).