Drum conveyor and method for rotating rod-shaped articles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and a peripheral surface, the drum conveyor comprising: o a first sheet and a second sheet, each of the first sheet and the second sheet adapted to convey rod-shaped articles, the first sheet and the second sheet positioned on the peripheral surface of the drum conveyor; and o a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation, and rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis. The present invention also relates to a method for rotating a rod-shaped article, the method comprising: a first shaft and a second shaft, wherein a first sheet is attached to the first shaft and a second sheet is attached to the second shaft, such that rotation of the two shafts rotates the first sheet and the second sheet; a pusher connected to the first shaft and the second shaft by a mechanical linkage, the pusher adapted to move linearly along a pusher direction and to engage the first shaft and the second shaft during movement; and an actuator adapted to move the pusher along the pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates about a drum rotation axis, so as to simultaneously rotate the first shaft and the second shaft and the attached first sheet and second sheet.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a drum conveyor for rotating rod-shaped articles and to a method for rotating rod-shaped articles. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles, such as filter cigarettes, typically comprise a rod of cut tobacco filler surrounded by a paper wrapper and a cylindrical filter aligned end-to-end with the wrapped tobacco rod and attached thereto by tipping paper. Some filters for smoking articles are known that comprise multiple cylindrical components attached in axial alignment. As an example, methods are known for manufacturing filters for smoking articles that comprise two or three distinct segments.

[0003] In the manufacture of such multi-component filters, one or more of the components may initially be provided as double- or quadruple-length components, i.e., components that are twice or four times as long as the component in the final smoking article. These multi-length rods are typically cut to separate them into smaller sections, and other components may be introduced between the cut sections. The various segments within the filter usually need to be placed in a specific order and arrangement, for example, so that successive segments are in abutting relationship or aligned with one another at a predetermined distance from one another to define the interior cavity of the filter.

[0004] The individual filter components may be moved during processing by a linear conveyor, such as a drive chain, which is thus adapted to transport the filter segments along a first transport direction extending substantially parallel to the axial direction of the components themselves.

[0005] Additionally, additional objects may be introduced inside the filter, including flavor capsules, threads, heating elements, susceptors, and others. The positioning of these elements within the filter component is important to the quality of the final product.

[0006] For example, imprecise positioning of the object within the component being cut can damage the object. For example, if the object is a susceptor, the impact of the blade used for such cutting can change the shape of the susceptor, thereby impairing its function during use.

[0007] Additionally, inaccurate positioning of objects in a component can alter the sensory experience of the user and the consistency of the final product.

[0008] Typically, during the manufacture of aerosol-generating articles, it is necessary to inspect the ends of the rods to verify, for example, tobacco density, rod porosity, or the location of objects within the component. However, this is difficult when the rods are transported in an end-to-end relationship. Therefore, there is a need for a system and method for rotating rod-shaped components that provides reliable rotation while at the same time not requiring relatively complex assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and an outer peripheral surface. The drum conveyor includes a first sheet and a second sheet, each adapted to transport rod-shaped articles, the first sheet and the second sheet preferably located on the outer peripheral surface of the drum conveyor. The drum conveyor includes a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis, the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation, the first sheet preferably being attached to the first shaft and the second sheet preferably being attached to the second shaft such that rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis rotates the first sheet and the second sheet. Preferably, the drum conveyor comprises a pusher connected to the first and second shafts by a mechanical linkage, the pusher adapted to move linearly along a pusher direction and to engage the first and second shafts during movement. Preferably, the drum conveyor comprises an actuator adapted to move the pusher along the pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates about the drum axis of rotation so as to simultaneously rotate the first and second shafts and the attached first and second sheets.

[0010] In the drum conveyor of the present invention, a seat formed on an outer cylindrical surface is constructed and arranged to receive rod-shaped articles. The seat is attached to a shaft that can rotate about the shaft's longitudinal axis. The two shafts are forced to rotate by the linear motion of a pusher. The pusher is then moved by an actuator. Rotation of the shaft rotates the seat, and therefore the rod-shaped articles contained within the seat. A simple mechanical structure with relatively few components allows the rod-shaped articles to be rotated at any angle.

[0011] The drum conveyor defines a drum axis of rotation about which the drum conveyor is adapted to rotate. The drum conveyor may be mechanically driven, for example, by a drum drive including a gear or a toothed belt. The drum conveyor may also be driven by an electric drum drive. The drum conveyor is preferably cylindrical in shape and includes an outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface is, for example, a substantially cylindrical surface having the drum axis of rotation as its geometric center.

[0012] The drum conveyor is adapted to transport and rotate rod-shaped articles, each of which includes a preferably substantially cylindrical outer surface extending along a longitudinal axis, with the longitudinal axis corresponding to the axis of the cylinder for a substantially cylindrical rod-shaped article.

[0013] The drum conveyor includes at least a first sheet and a second sheet located on the outer peripheral surface. Hereinafter, when a feature is said to apply to a "sheet," it means that it applies to both the first sheet and the second sheet, even if there is no mention of whether it is the first sheet or the second sheet. The sheets are positioned on the outer peripheral surface. Each sheet is adapted to hold a rod-shaped article during conveyance. The first sheet extends longitudinally along a first sheet axis, and the second sheet extends longitudinally along a second sheet axis. Each of the first sheet and the second sheet is adapted to receive a rod-shaped article having its longitudinal axis parallel to the sheet axis as the drum conveyor rotates. Each sheet is preferably configured so that a rod-shaped article can be accommodated therein when the sheet axis and the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped article are parallel, more preferably concentric. The sheet may be adapted to accommodate a single rod-shaped article or multiple rod-shaped articles. When multiple rod-shaped articles are contained within the sheet, the rod-shaped articles are preferably in abutting relationship with their longitudinal axes substantially aligned.

[0014] Preferably, the drum conveyor comprises three or more sheets, e.g., N sheets (N>2), all of which are positioned on the peripheral surface of the drum conveyor. More preferably, the sheets are evenly spaced around the periphery of the drum. Preferably, the drum conveyor comprises 10 to 100 sheets. More preferably, the drum conveyor comprises 40 to 80 sheets. In some embodiments, the drum conveyor comprises 50 sheets.

[0015] Preferably, all sheets present within the drum conveyor have the same geometric shape. For example, each of the first sheet and the second sheet includes a receiving surface adapted to contact the outer surface of the rod-shaped article. The receiving surface preferably includes a concave surface, for example, a portion of a cylindrical surface. The cylindrical surface has a diameter equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the rod-shaped article transported by the drum conveyor. The axis of the cylindrical surface, of which part is the receiving surface, defines the sheet axis.

[0016] Each sheet preferably includes a suction opening connected to a suction or pneumatic system adapted to hold the rod-shaped articles within the sheet by suction while the drum conveyor rotates. There may be more than one opening, depending on the size and weight of the rod-shaped articles.

[0017] The drum conveyor includes a first shaft and a second shaft. Hereinafter, when a feature is referred to as applying to a "shaft," it means that it applies to both the first shaft and the second shaft, regardless of whether it is the first shaft or the second shaft. The first shaft is adapted to rotate about a first shaft longitudinal axis, and the second shaft is adapted to rotate about a second shaft longitudinal axis. The first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis are both substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis of the drum conveyor. The first shaft and the second shaft preferably extend radially around the drum rotation axis. The first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis preferably are coplanar. The first shaft is associated with a first sheet, and the second shaft is associated with a second sheet. If there are N sheets in the conveyor drum, where N>2, the number of shafts included in the drum conveyor is the same as the N sheets, so each sheet of the N sheets is associated with N shafts. Preferably, only one shaft is associated with one sheet. For N shafts, where N>2, all shafts are adapted to rotate about a shaft longitudinal axis. The N longitudinal axes are preferably coplanar. The N shaft longitudinal axes are preferably all perpendicular to the drum rotation axis. The N shaft longitudinal axes preferably extend along the radii of a circumference defined by dividing the drum conveyor by a plane perpendicular to the drum rotation axis, the circumference having the drum rotation axis as its center and the outer peripheral surface as its outer boundary.

[0018] Each seat is mounted to its associated shaft such that rotation of the shaft rotates the seat, and thus, upon rotation, the shaft and associated seat move as a unit. Preferably, the seats are mounted to the shaft so that the shaft longitudinal axis and the seat axis are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0019] Each shaft preferably defines a first end and a second end axially opposed to one another, the first end facing the drum axis of rotation, and the second end attached to a seat located on the outer peripheral surface, the seat preferably being secured to the second end of the shaft.

[0020] Furthermore, the drum conveyor comprises a pusher. The pusher is preferably rod-shaped. The pusher is adapted to move linearly along a pusher direction. The pusher direction is preferably not perpendicular to the drum rotation axis. The pusher direction is preferably substantially parallel to the drum rotation axis. By "linearly moving" it is meant that the pusher is adapted to perform a linear movement, i.e., a movement along a substantially straight line. More preferably, the pusher is adapted to reciprocate along the pusher direction. Thus, the pusher is adapted to perform a linear forward movement (forward movement) and a linear backward movement (backward movement).

[0021] A pusher is associated with the first shaft and the second shaft. For N shafts (N>2), the drum conveyor preferably comprises N / 2 pushers, each of the N / 2 pushers being associated with the two nearest adjacent shafts.

[0022] The pusher is adapted to engage the first shaft and the second shaft by a mechanical linkage such that linear motion of the pusher is translated into rotational motion of the first shaft about the longitudinal axis of the first shaft and the second shaft about the longitudinal axis of the second shaft. Thus, the pusher translates linear motion of the pusher into rotational motion of the shafts.

[0023] Preferably, the mechanical linkage is adapted to rotate the first and second shafts in opposite directions. For example, the mechanical pusher rotates the first shaft clockwise about its longitudinal axis and the second shaft counterclockwise about its longitudinal axis as a result of linear movement of the pusher. Preferably, the direction of rotation of the first or second shaft during forward movement of the pusher is reversed during rearward movement of the pusher.

[0024] The mechanical connection between the pusher and the first and second shafts may be of any type, as long as the mechanical connection is capable of converting linear motion into rotational motion. The mechanical connection may be known in the art.

[0025] The pusher is preferably located between the first shaft and the second shaft, for example. The first shaft and the second shaft are preferably angularly spaced apart. A space is preferably formed between the first shaft and the second shaft, and the pusher is preferably inserted therein. The pusher is preferably in contact with the first shaft and the second shaft.

[0026] For N shafts, where N>2, the first shaft and the second shaft are nearest adjacent shafts. The nearest adjacent shafts are the shafts that are angularly nearest. For N shafts, where N>2, it is preferable to interpose a pusher between each pair of nearest adjacent shafts. For example, for a first shaft, a second shaft, a third shaft, and a fourth shaft, the first pusher engages with the first shaft and the second shaft, and the second pusher engages with the third shaft and the fourth shaft. It is preferable that one shaft engages with only one pusher.

[0027] The pusher is moved by an actuator to perform a linear motion such that the first shaft rotates about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft rotates about the second shaft longitudinal axis. The actuator pushes the pusher along the pusher direction, shifting the pusher. The translational motion is performed along a translation vector having the pusher direction as its direction and a given coefficient. The value of this coefficient determines, among other things, the rotation angle of the first shaft and the second shaft. Therefore, depending on the actuator action on the pusher, the movement of the pusher along the pusher direction can have different amplitudes. The "amplitude" of the linear movement of the pusher refers to the coefficient of the translational motion vector. Therefore, the amplitude is the distance between the position of the pusher end at the start of the movement and the position of the same end at the end of the movement, where the start and end of the movement are two moments t1 and t2 (t2 > t1) during the rotation of the drum conveyor around the drum rotation axis. The distance is calculated along the pusher direction. Preferably, the pusher direction is parallel to the drum rotation axis. During rotation of the drum conveyor about the drum rotation axis, the linear movement of the pusher reaches a maximum amplitude at the point when the pusher reverses its movement along the same pusher direction, the maximum amplitude of the movement preferably being comprised between 0.5 centimeters and 2 centimeters.

[0028] The amplitude of the pusher movement is preferably selected so that the linear movement of the pusher results in a rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and a rotation of the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis of at least 80 degrees. The selected amplitude is preferably such that the rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the rotation of the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis are substantially equal to 90 degrees. The 90-degree rotation allows for easy inspection of the ends, particularly the end faces, of rod-shaped articles. Therefore, if an inspection system is present, accurate inspection of the ends of rod-shaped articles may be possible.

[0029] The motion of the pushers on the first shaft and the second shaft preferably varies during rotation of the conveyor drum about the drum axis of rotation, preferably because the linear motion of the pushers is reciprocating, and therefore, during rotation of the drum conveyor, the rotation of the first shaft and the second shaft may likewise vary.

[0030] Preferably, the pusher performs forward and backward movements during a 360-degree rotation of the drum conveyor around the drum rotation axis. The forward and backward movements preferably have the same maximum amplitude. The forward movement of the pusher is a linear movement of the pusher away from the actuator, and the backward movement is a linear movement of the pusher toward the actuator. Preferably, the pusher direction is parallel to the drum rotation axis. Thus, the forward movement is a linear movement of the pusher parallel to the drum rotation axis having a first orientation, and the backward movement is a linear movement parallel to the drum rotation axis and having an orientation opposite to the first orientation.

[0031] At a point during the rotation of the drum conveyor about the drum axis of rotation, designated t=0, the first and second sheets preferably have their first and second sheet axes substantially perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation. When the drum conveyor begins to rotate, an actuator acts on the pusher, pushing it forward. The resulting linear motion rotates the first and second shafts via the mechanical linkage. Thus, during the rotation of the drum conveyor, the pusher moves along the pusher direction until the pusher movement reaches a maximum amplitude. This maximum amplitude is preferably such that, when reached, the first shaft rotates about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft rotates about the second shaft longitudinal axis by an angle of at least 90 degrees, more preferably substantially equal to 90 degrees. In this 90-degree rotation configuration, the sheet axes of the first and second sheets are preferably substantially parallel to the drum axis of rotation.

[0032] When this configuration is reached, i.e., when the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis are rotated 90 degrees, the actuator action on the pusher changes, initiating rearward movement of the pusher and reversing its linear forward movement. This reverse movement changes the direction of rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis. If the first shaft rotates clockwise and the second shaft rotates counterclockwise during the forward movement of the pusher, then the first shaft and the second shaft rotate counterclockwise and clockwise, respectively, during the rearward movement of the pusher. The maximum amplitude of this rearward movement is preferably the same as the maximum amplitude of the forward movement, so that the first shaft and the second shaft are again rotated 90 degrees. Thus, at the end of the rearward movement, the seat axis is again substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis.

[0033] At a point during the rotation of the drum conveyor about the drum rotation axis, designated t=0, the first and second sheets preferably have their first and second sheet axes forming an angle equal to α with the drum rotation axis. When the drum conveyor begins to rotate, an actuator acts on the pusher to push it forward. The resulting linear motion rotates the first and second shafts via the mechanical linkage. Thus, during the rotation of the drum conveyor, the pusher moves along the pusher direction until the pusher movement reaches a maximum amplitude. This maximum amplitude is preferably such that, when reached, the first shaft rotates about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft rotates about the second shaft longitudinal axis at an angle β at which the sheet axes of the first and second sheets are substantially parallel to the drum rotation axis. Thus, it is preferred that α + β = 90 degrees.

[0034] When this configuration is reached, i.e., when the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis have rotated β degrees, the actuator action on the pusher changes, initiating rearward movement of the pusher and reversing its linear forward movement. This reverse movement changes the direction of rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis. If the first shaft rotates clockwise and the second shaft rotates counterclockwise during the forward movement of the pusher, then the first shaft and the second shaft rotate counterclockwise and clockwise, respectively, during the rearward movement of the pusher. The maximum amplitude of this rearward movement is preferably the same as the maximum amplitude of the forward movement, so that the first shaft and the second shaft are again preferably rotated β degrees. Thus, at the end of the rearward movement, the seat axis again substantially forms an angle equal to α with the drum rotation axis.

[0035] During the forward and backward movements, the angle formed between the seat axis and the drum rotation axis at each point in time depends on the position of the pusher along the pusher direction. For example, the forward movement of the pusher includes movement from a first position to a second position along the pusher direction. At the first position, the angle between the seat axis and the drum rotation axis may be 90 degrees, and at the second position, the angle between the seat axis and the drum rotation axis may be 0 degrees. As the pusher moves between the first and second positions, the angle formed between the seat axis and the drum rotation axis may be between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, with the exact value depending on the exact instantaneous position of the pusher.

[0036] In the above structure, rotation of the sheet, and therefore of the rod-shaped articles positioned within the sheet, is relatively simple and requires relatively few mechanical parts. Therefore, a smaller drum conveyor may be used, which allows energy savings due to its relatively low inertia compared to, for example, a larger drum conveyor. Furthermore, the rotation angle of the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped articles can be easily determined by changing the maximum amplitude of the linear motion of the pusher. Any rotation angle can be easily achieved. Simple and effective angle selection is achieved. Therefore, the drum conveyor of the present invention is adapted to more effectively and smoothly change the orientation of the filter rod articles.

[0037] The pusher direction is preferably perpendicular to the first shaft longitudinal axis or the second shaft longitudinal axis. Having the pusher direction perpendicular to the shaft longitudinal axis allows for a stable and efficient mechanical connection between the pusher and the first and second shafts.

[0038] The actuator preferably includes a cam that pushes the pusher along the pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates around the drum rotation axis. Relative rotation between the pusher and the cam is converted into linear motion of the pusher. In this configuration, the pusher acts as a follower of the cam. The pusher preferably rotates integrally with the drum conveyor such that rotation of the drum conveyor corresponds to rotation of the pusher around the same axis (the drum rotation axis). The cam is preferably an end cam. The drum conveyor preferably has a first wall and a second wall located on two opposite sides of the outer circumferential surface. The cam is preferably defined by a portion of the first wall. That is, the cam is preferably provided on the first wall. The cam is preferably formed as a local thickness variation on the surface of the first wall, more preferably on the surface facing the second wall. The first wall includes a peripheral contour, and the contour of the first wall varies in thickness according to a predetermined pattern such that the local distance along the drum rotation axis between the first wall and the second wall varies. The pusher preferably defines a first end and a second end. The first end of the pusher preferably abuts against the cam. The second end of the pusher is preferably fixed to the second wall of the drum conveyor. In a preferred embodiment, the first wall, including the cam, is fixed, i.e., the first wall does not rotate together with the drum conveyor as it rotates around the drum rotation axis. Conversely, the second wall and the pusher preferably rotate integrally with the drum conveyor. Thus, relative rotation is preferably present between the first and second walls. As the drum conveyor rotates, the first end of the pusher slides over the first wall (or the surface of the first wall slides over the first end of the pusher), following the contour of the surface of the first wall, defining the cam. Due to variations in the thickness of the first wall, the surface on which the pusher slides is not flat but includes "protrusions" that push the pusher toward the second wall. This pushing force causes linear movement of the pusher toward the second wall. The amplitude of the linear movement depends on the difference between the first distance and the second distance.The first distance is the distance, measured along an axis parallel to the drum rotation axis, between a point on the surface of the first wall contacted by the pusher and a corresponding point on the inner surface of the second wall facing the first wall at the start of the movement. The second distance is the distance, measured along an axis parallel to the drum rotation axis, between a point on the surface of the first wall contacted by the pusher and a corresponding point on the inner surface of the second wall facing the first wall at the end of the linear movement. The greater the difference, the greater the amplitude. The shape of the surface of the first wall is adapted so that after a rotation of the drum conveyor of substantially 180 degrees or less about the drum rotation axis, the rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis or the rotation of the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis is at least 80 degrees, more preferably at least 90 degrees.

[0039] Preferably, the first wall is fixed. Preferably, the cam remains fixed and the pusher slides on the cam while the drum conveyor rotates. The pusher, which rotates integrally with the drum conveyor, slides on the cam and is therefore constrained to move linearly along a linear direction due to the cam shape. Preferably, the movement of the pusher is substantially that of a follower of the end cam.

[0040] The pusher preferably includes a first end and a second end, the first end of the pusher being adapted to engage the actuator. Motion of the actuator is preferably effected on one of the opposing first and second distal ends of the pusher, e.g., the first end. For example, the actuator is a cam and the pusher is a follower thereof, such that the first end of the pusher slides on the cam upon relative rotation of the pusher and cam.

[0041] Preferably, a resilient element is provided on the pusher. The resilient element preferably exerts a resilient force on the pusher toward the first wall. Preferably, a force is applied to the pusher so that the first end of the pusher remains engaged with the actuator. This force is preferably an elastic force. This force preferably has a major component directed toward the first wall. The resilient force may be generated by a resilient element provided on the second end of the pusher. The resilient element preferably generates a force directed along the pusher direction. This resilient force preferably has an orientation opposite to the orientation of the force applied by the actuator on the pusher. The resilient force may urge the first end of the pusher to remain engaged with the actuator. For example, when the first end of the pusher slides over the surface of the first wall, the second end of the pusher may engage with a resilient element that urges the pusher toward the surface of the first wall so that contact between the first end of the pusher and the surface of the first wall including the cam can be maintained. Preferably, the resilient element is compressed between the pusher and the second wall. The resilient element is preferably connected to the second wall. The resilient element may, for example, include a spring. The elastic element may comprise a block of elastic material such as rubber. The elastic element may be mounted so as to be constantly compressed, exerting a constant force on the pusher toward the first wall. The elastic force varies as the pusher moves linearly. As the pusher moves toward the second wall along the pusher direction, the elastic force increases. The pusher direction is preferably parallel to the drum rotation axis, and a first end of the pusher engages with the actuator while a second end of the pusher engages with the elastic element. The force exerted by the actuator on the pusher has a component along the pusher direction. The elastic force exerted by the elastic element on the pusher has a component along the pusher direction.

[0042] The resilient element is preferably adapted to bias the pusher toward the cam to maintain contact between the pusher and the cam. A force is required to maintain contact between the pusher and the cam during rotation of the drum conveyor. This force may be provided by the resilient element. The pusher preferably slides on the surface of the first wall, and contact is maintained during relative rotation between the first wall and the pusher by the force applied by the resilient element. The resilient element is preferably positioned between the second wall and the second end of the pusher.

[0043] The pusher is telescopic and includes an inner tubular element and an outer tubular element, the inner tubular element being slidable within the outer tubular element along the pusher direction. The telescopic pusher can vary its overall length along the pusher direction from a minimum length in a contracted configuration to a maximum length in an expanded configuration. The telescopic pusher is preferably pushed toward the expanded configuration by an elastic force exerted by an elastic element. An actuator pushes the telescopic pusher toward the contracted configuration. Thus, the reciprocating movement of the pusher includes expansion and contraction of the telescopic pusher. Thus, the maximum amplitude of the linear movement is the difference in the overall length of the pusher between the overall length of the pusher in the expanded configuration and the overall length of the pusher in the contracted configuration. Thus, the linear movement is the sliding movement of the inner tubular element within and outside the outer tubular element. An elastic element may be located between the inner tubular element and the outer tubular element, and the elastic element is preferably compressed as the inner tubular element slides within the outer tubular element.

[0044] The mechanical linkage between the first and second shafts and the pusher preferably includes a rack and pinion. A mechanical linkage including a circular gear (pinion) engaging a linear gear (rack) is preferably used to convert the linear motion of the pusher into rotational motion of the first and second shafts. Driving the rack linearly drives the pinion into rotation. This configuration of mechanical linkage is highly efficient in converting motion and relatively simple to implement. However, other mechanical linkages may be used as well.

[0045] The pusher preferably includes a first rack and a second rack, the first shaft includes a first pinion, and the second shaft includes a second pinion, and the pusher is positioned so that the first rack engages with the first pinion and the second rack engages with the second pinion. The pusher is preferably located between the first shaft and the second shaft. The exact location of the pusher's insertion between the first shaft and the second shaft, e.g., the distance between the pusher and the drum rotation axis, depends on the location of the pinions formed in the first shaft and the second shaft. The pusher preferably includes a first rack and a second rack. The first rack and the second rack may face in opposite directions. The first rack may face the first shaft, and the second rack may face the second shaft. The first rack may engage with the first pinion. The second rack may engage with the second pinion. Thus, due to the engagement of the first and second racks with the first and second pinions, respectively, linear motion of the first and second racks is converted into rotational motion of the first and second shafts. Due to the fact that the first seat is attached to the first shaft and the second seat is attached to the second shaft, the rotational motion of the first and second shafts also corresponds to rotation of the first seat about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second seat about the second shaft longitudinal axis.

[0046] The linear motion of the pusher preferably defines an amplitude, the amplitude being selected so that the first and second sheets rotate at least 90 degrees. The pusher direction is preferably parallel to the drum rotation axis. The pusher direction is preferably perpendicular to the first and second shaft longitudinal axes. The linear motion preferably includes a forward and a backward movement. Both the forward and backward movements are preferably contained within a single 360-degree rotation of the drum conveyor. The forward and backward movements preferably have the same maximum amplitude. At a given time t1 during the rotation, the sheet axis is preferably substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis. After a rotation of 180 degrees or less of the drum conveyor, at time t2 (t2>t1), the sheet axis is preferably parallel to the drum rotation axis. After a subsequent rotation of the drum conveyor before or at the end of a full rotation, the sheet axis is preferably again perpendicular to the drum rotation axis.

[0047] Preferably, the drum conveyor comprises a plurality of N sheets, a plurality of N shafts, and N / 2 pushers, and each k-th (k=1...N / 2) pusher of the N / 2 pushers is connected to the two nearest adjacent shafts (i, i+1), where i=1, 3, 5...N-1, according to the above embodiment. In the drum conveyor, the number of pushers is preferably half the number of shafts (or sheets). Thus, if the number of sheets and shafts is equal to N, the number of pushers is equal to N / 2. The connection between one pusher and two shafts makes it possible to rotate the N shafts using only N / 2 pushers. Preferably, all N shafts are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis. Preferably, the N shafts are coplanar. Each of the N shafts is associated with a sheet of the N sheets. Preferably, the association is the same as the association between the first sheet and the first shaft and the association between the second sheet and the second shaft. Each of the N / 2 pushers is connected to the two nearest adjacent shafts of the N shafts. Therefore, the relationship between the shafts and the pushers is preferably as follows:

[0048] The kth pusher (k is an integer between 1 and N / 2) is connected to the two nearest adjacent shafts, called the ith shaft and the (i+1)th shaft, where i is an odd number between 1 and N-1. Thus, there is a first pusher between the first and second shafts, no pusher between the second and third shafts, a second pusher between the third and fourth shafts, etc.

[0049] The drum conveyor preferably includes N sheets evenly spaced around the outer peripheral surface of the drum conveyor. The drum conveyor also preferably includes N shafts, a shaft associated with each of the N sheets. The N sheets may preferably be unevenly spaced. For example, the spacing between the two nearest adjacent sheets associated with two shafts having a pusher inserted therebetween may be different from the spacing between the two nearest adjacent sheets associated with two shafts having no pusher therebetween. Furthermore, the spacing between the sheets may not correspond to the spacing between rod-shaped articles positioned within the sheets.

[0050] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a system for rotating rod-shaped articles, the system comprising a drum conveyor according to the previous aspect. The rod-shaped articles are rotated at a predetermined angle within the drum conveyor. Preferably, the rod-shaped articles are rotated from a configuration in which their longitudinal axes are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis to a configuration in which their rotation axes are substantially parallel to the drum rotation axis.

[0051] The advantages of this system have already been outlined with reference to the first embodiment and will not be repeated here.

[0052] Preferably, the system further comprises an inspection device adapted to inspect rod-shaped articles positioned on the first sheet or the second sheet (or on both the first and second sheets). When rod-shaped articles are conveyed in a conveying direction with their longitudinal axes parallel to the conveying direction, inspecting the end faces of the rod-shaped articles can be difficult. Inspecting one or more end faces of a rod-shaped article can be relevant to assessing the quality of the rod-shaped article. For example, it may be desirable to check the presence of deformations, such as the ovality of the rod-shaped article. When objects are inserted into a rod-shaped article during manufacturing, it may be desirable to evaluate whether the object is correctly positioned. However, the path of the rod-shaped articles, which move sequentially with their axes parallel to each other, can make this task difficult. Therefore, to inspect the first or second end of a rod-shaped article, it is preferable to use the system of the present invention to rotate the rod-shaped article by a selected angle, for example, 90 degrees, particularly when the rod-shaped article is initially positioned in a sheet of a drum conveyor with the rod longitudinal axis perpendicular to the drum rotation axis. The 90 degree rotation is a rotation of the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped article relative to the initial orientation of the longitudinal axis. The rotation is therefore relative to the conveying direction. The system preferably includes an inspection device for inspecting the first end or the second end, or both, of the rod-shaped article. The inspection device preferably includes a camera. The inspection device is preferably adapted to detect the position of a susceptor at the first end or the second end of the rod-shaped article.

[0053] Preferably, the first sheet extends along a first sheet axis, the second sheet extends along a second sheet axis, and the inspection device is adapted to inspect rod-shaped articles on the drum conveyor when the first sheet axis and the second sheet axis are parallel to the drum rotation axis. Preferably, the inspection device inspects a first end or a second end of the rod-shaped article when the rod-shaped article is positioned within the first sheet or the second sheet and the first sheet axis or the second sheet axis is parallel to the drum rotation axis.

[0054] The system preferably includes a first linear conveyor adapted to convey a stream of rod-shaped articles while maintaining the orientation of the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in a first conveying direction extending substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis, and a drum conveyor located downstream of the first linear conveyor and adapted to engage the rod-shaped articles and convey the rod-shaped articles while rotating their longitudinal axes. The rotation of the longitudinal axes is relative to the conveying direction of the drum conveyor. Thus, the system includes a transfer station where the rod-shaped articles are transferred from the first linear conveyor to the drum conveyor. As mentioned above, this configuration does not allow for easy inspection of the end faces of the rod-shaped articles. For this reason, the rod-shaped articles are preferably transferred from the linear conveyor to the drum conveyor of the present invention, where the articles are rotated at a given angle.

[0055] The system preferably includes a second linear conveyor adapted to convey the stream of rod-shaped articles while maintaining an orientation of the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in a second conveying direction extending substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis, the second linear conveyor being downstream from the drum conveyor and adapted to engage the rod-shaped articles received from the drum conveyor. Thus, the system preferably transfers the rod-shaped articles from the drum conveyor back to another linear conveyor so that the rod-shaped articles are again conveyed with their longitudinal axes parallel to each other.

[0056] According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a method for rotating rod-shaped articles having a longitudinal axis. The method preferably includes providing a drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and an outer peripheral surface. The drum conveyor preferably includes a first sheet and a second sheet located on the outer peripheral surface of the drum conveyor. The drum conveyor preferably includes a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis, the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation, the first sheet attached to the first shaft, and the second sheet attached to the second shaft. The drum conveyor preferably includes a pusher forming a mechanical connection with the first shaft and the second shaft. The method preferably includes positioning rod-shaped articles within the first sheet and the second sheet. The method preferably includes rotating the drum conveyor about the drum conveyor axis of rotation. The method preferably includes linearly moving a pusher along a pusher direction while rotating the drum conveyor. The method preferably includes converting the linear movement of the pusher into rotational movement of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and rotational movement of the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis so as to rotate longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet.

[0057] The advantages of the second aspect have already been described in detail with reference to the previous aspects and will not be repeated here.

[0058] Preferably, the step of rotating the first shaft and the second shaft includes rotating the first shaft and the second shaft 90 degrees, which allows for easy inspection of an end face of a rod-shaped article.

[0059] Preferably, the step of rotating the first shaft and the second shaft includes rotating the first shaft and the second shaft in opposite directions, whereby a linear movement of the pusher along the pusher direction is converted into two rotational movements of the first shaft and the second shaft, respectively, whereby for easy conversion, the two rotational movements are in opposite directions.

[0060] The step of rotating the first and second shafts preferably includes rotating the first and second shafts from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets are parallel to the drum rotation axis. In some processing of rod-shaped articles, it is preferable to position the rod-shaped articles in a row so that their longitudinal axes are parallel and abutting to each other. However, this configuration may interfere with other processing steps, such as inspection of the end faces of the rod-shaped articles. The method of the present invention preferably rotates the rod-shaped articles from this initial configuration in which the rod-shaped articles are in a row to a configuration in which the rod-shaped articles are rotated 90 degrees. In this way, their end faces can be easily inspected.

[0061] Preferably, the step of rotating the drum conveyor includes rotating the drum conveyor 360 degrees about the drum axis of rotation. During the same 360-degree rotation of the drum conveyor, the step of rotating the first and second shafts preferably includes rotating the first and second shafts from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets are perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets are parallel to the drum axis of rotation, and rotating the first and second shafts from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets are parallel to the drum axis of rotation back to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets are parallel to the drum axis of rotation. Because more processing steps are performed on rod-shaped articles when the articles are positioned in a line with their longitudinal axes parallel to one another and in abutting relationship, it is preferable to "temporarily" rotate the rod-shaped articles for a period sufficient for the desired inspection, and then rotate the articles back to their initial configuration.

[0062] Preferably, the method includes inspecting the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets when the first and second shafts are in a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles are parallel to the drum axis of rotation. Inspection of the end faces can be facilitated in this configuration.

[0063] Preferably, the step of linearly moving the pusher along the pusher direction includes reciprocating the pusher along the pusher direction, wherein the pusher may perform a forward movement in a first 90-degree rotation of the first and second seats, and a rearward movement in a subsequent return 90-degree rotation of the first and second seats.

[0064] Preferably, the step of linearly moving the pusher along the pusher direction comprises moving the pusher along the pusher direction by a cam, the relationship between the pusher and the cam being such that the pusher acts as a follower of the cam.

[0065] Preferably, the step of providing a conveyor drum includes providing a conveyor drum having a first wall and a second wall, and forming a cam on the first wall. A simple structure with a small number of parts can be achieved.

[0066] Preferably, the step of providing a conveyor drum having a pusher includes providing a telescopic pusher including an inner tubular element and an outer tubular element. Preferably, the step of linearly moving the pusher along the pusher direction includes sliding the inner tubular element inward or outward from the outer tubular element. The linear movement of the pusher can include sliding movement of the telescopic pusher along the pusher direction to change the overall pusher length.

[0067] Preferably, the method includes transferring one or more rod-shaped articles from a first conveyor to a drum conveyor. More preferably, the first conveyor is a linear conveyor and the method includes conveying a plurality of rod-shaped articles along a path with their axes parallel to one another.

[0068] Hereinafter, the term "rod-shaped article" may refer to any element that may be included in an aerosol-forming article. Such elements are known in the art and will not be described in further detail below. For example, such a rod-shaped article may include a filter plug, a heat source, a tobacco rod, a charcoal element, etc. Preferably, the rod-shaped article is a plant material containing article, in particular a tobacco-containing article. The tobacco article may include tobacco cut filler or aerosol-forming reconstituted tobacco. The article may comprise a tobacco rod that is burned or heated. The rod-shaped article according to the present invention may be a complete assembled aerosol-forming article, or may be an element of an aerosol-forming article that is combined with one or more other components to provide an assembled aerosol-forming article for generating aerosol, such as, for example, a consumable part of a heated smoking device.

[0069] The components of the aerosol-forming article preferably include a tobacco-containing material that includes volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating.

[0070] The rod-shaped article may preferably include a heat source, or a volatile flavor-producing component (eg, a menthol capsule, a charcoal element), or a susceptor.

[0071] The susceptor may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferred susceptors include metal or carbon. Preferred susceptors may include ferromagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel. Suitable susceptors may be or include aluminum. Preferred susceptors may be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, grade 420, or grade 430 stainless steel. Different materials dissipate different amounts of energy when placed in electromagnetic fields with similar frequencies and field strengths. Thus, susceptor parameters, such as material type, length, width, and thickness, may all be modified to provide desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field.

[0072] Preferred susceptors may be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius. Suitable susceptors may include a non-metallic core, e.g., a ceramic core with a metal layer disposed thereon, and a metal track formed on the surface of the core. The susceptor may have a protective outer layer, e.g., a protective ceramic layer or a protective glass layer, encapsulating the elongated susceptor material. The susceptor may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or an inert metal formed over a core of susceptor material.

[0073] The rod-shaped article may preferably have a length of about 5 millimeters to about 20 millimeters, preferably about 8 millimeters to about 16 millimeters, for example, about 12 millimeters. In some cases, the rod-shaped article may have a length of about 40 millimeters to about 85 millimeters.

[0074] Hereinafter, the term "length" refers to the length of a rod-shaped article along its longitudinal axis, unless otherwise specified.

[0075] In the following, the term "rod-shaped" refers to a generally cylindrical element that is substantially cylindrical, oval or elliptical, however, other prismatic forms with different cross sections are also possible.

[0076] As used herein, an aerosol-forming article is any article that generates an inhalable aerosol when the aerosol-forming substrate is heated. This term includes articles that include an aerosol-forming substrate that is heated by an external heat source, such as an electric heating element. The aerosol-forming article may be a non-combustible aerosol-forming article, which is an article that releases a volatile compound without combustion of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming article may also be a heated aerosol-forming article, which is an aerosol-forming article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate that is intended to be heated, rather than burned, to release a volatile compound that can form an aerosol. This term includes articles that include an aerosol-forming substrate and an integrated heat source (e.g., a combustible heat source).

[0077] The aerosol-forming article according to the present invention may be in the form of a combustible filtered cigarette or other smoking article in which tobacco material is combusted to form smoke.

[0078] The aerosol-forming article may preferably be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-forming article may be substantially elongated. The aerosol-forming article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length. The aerosol-forming article may have an overall length of about 30 millimeters to about 100 millimeters. The aerosol-forming article may have an outer diameter of about 5 millimeters to about 12 millimeters.

[0079] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, the following provides 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 any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0080] Example 1: 1. A drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and a peripheral surface, a first sheet and a second sheet, each adapted to convey rod-shaped articles, the first sheet and the second sheet positioned on a peripheral surface of a drum conveyor; a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis, the first seat being attached to the first shaft and the second seat being attached to the second shaft such that rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and rotation of the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis causes rotation of the first seat and the second seat; a pusher coupled to the first shaft and the second shaft by a mechanical linkage, the pusher adapted to move linearly along the pusher direction and to engage the first shaft and the second shaft during movement; a drum conveyor comprising: a first shaft and a second shaft; and an actuator adapted to move the pusher along a pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates about a drum rotation axis so as to simultaneously rotate the attached first and second sheets. Example 2: 2. The drum conveyor according to embodiment 1, wherein the pusher direction is perpendicular to the first shaft longitudinal axis or the second shaft longitudinal axis. Example 3: 3. The drum conveyor according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the actuator includes a cam, and the cam pushes the pusher along the pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates around the drum rotation axis. Example 4: A drum conveyor according to Example 3, wherein the drum conveyor comprises a first wall and a second wall located on two opposite sides of the outer peripheral surface, and the cam is defined by a portion of the first wall. Example 5: 5. The drum conveyor according to embodiment 4, wherein the first wall is fixed. Example 6: The drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-5, wherein the pusher includes a first end and a second end, the first end of the pusher adapted to engage with the actuator. Example 7: The drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-6, wherein the pusher is provided with a resilient element. Example 8: The drum conveyor according to example 7, when dependent on example 4 or 5, wherein the elastic element exerts an elastic force on the pusher towards the first wall. Example 9: The drum conveyor according to example 7 or 8 when dependent on example 3 or 4, wherein the elastic element is adapted to urge the pusher towards the cam to maintain contact between the pusher and the cam. Example 10: 10. The drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-9, wherein the pusher is telescopic and includes an inner tubular element and an outer tubular element, the inner tubular element being slidable within the outer tubular element along the pusher direction. Example 11: The drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-10, wherein the mechanical linkage between the first shaft and the second shaft and the pusher comprises a rack and pinion. Example 12: 12. The drum conveyor according to example 11, wherein the pusher includes a first rack and a second rack, the first shaft includes a first pinion, and the second shaft includes a second pinion, and the pusher is positioned such that the first rack engages with the first pinion and the second rack engages with the second pinion. Example 13: 13. The drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-12, wherein the linear motion of the pusher defines an amplitude, the amplitude being selected such that the first sheet and the second sheet rotate through at least 90 degrees. Example 14: 14. A drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-13, comprising a plurality of N sheets and a plurality of N shafts, and N / 2 pushers, wherein each k-th (k=1...N / 2) pusher of the N / 2 pushers is connected to two nearest adjacent shafts (i, i+1), where i=1, 3, 5...N-1, according to one or more of the preceding claims. Example 15: A drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding Examples 1-14, comprising N sheets, the N sheets being evenly spaced around the outer circumferential surface of the drum conveyor. Example 16: 1. A system for rotating a rod-shaped article, comprising: o a drum conveyor according to any one of Examples 1 to 15; an inspection device adapted to inspect rod-shaped articles positioned on the first sheet or on the second sheet. Example 17: A system according to example 16, wherein the first sheet extends along a first sheet axis and the second sheet extends along a second sheet axis, and the inspection device is adapted to inspect rod-shaped articles on the drum conveyor when the first sheet axis and the second sheet axis are parallel to the drum rotation axis. Example 18: 1. A method of rotating a rod-shaped article having a longitudinal axis, comprising: Providing a drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and a peripheral surface, the drum conveyor comprising: a first sheet and a second sheet positioned on the outer peripheral surface of the drum conveyor; a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation, a first seat attached to the first shaft and a second seat attached to the second shaft; and o a pusher forming a mechanical connection with the first shaft and the second shaft; Positioning a rod-shaped article within the first sheet and within the second sheet; rotating the drum conveyor about a drum conveyor axis of rotation; moving the pusher linearly along the pusher direction while rotating the drum conveyor; converting linear motion of the pusher into rotational motion of the first and second shafts about the first and second shaft longitudinal axes so as to rotate longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first and second sheets. Example 19: The step of rotating the first shaft and the second shaft includes: The method according to example 18, comprising rotating the first shaft and the second shaft by 90 degrees. Example 20: The step of rotating the first shaft and the second shaft includes: o The method according to example 18 or 19, comprising rotating the first shaft and the second shaft in opposite directions. Example 21: The step of rotating the first shaft and the second shaft includes: 21. The method according to example 19 or 20, comprising rotating the first shaft and the second shaft from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are perpendicular to the drum axis of rotation to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum axis of rotation. Example 22: The process of rotating the drum conveyor is as follows: o Rotating the drum conveyor 360 degrees around the drum axis of rotation; rotating the first shaft and the second shaft in the same 360 ​​degree rotation of the drum conveyor; rotating the first shaft and the second shaft from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum rotation axis; o rotating the first shaft and the second shaft from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum axis of rotation back to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum axis of rotation. Example 23: 23. The method according to example 21 or 22, comprising inspecting the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet or the second sheet when the first shaft and the second shaft are in a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles are parallel to the drum rotation axis. Example 24: The step of linearly moving the pusher along the pusher direction includes: The method according to one or more of Examples 18-23, comprising reciprocating the pusher along the pusher direction. Example 25: The step of linearly moving the pusher in the pusher direction includes: The method according to one or more of Examples 18-24, comprising moving the pusher along the pusher direction by a cam. Example 26: The step of providing a conveyor drum includes: providing a conveyor drum having a first wall and a second wall; o forming a cam on the first wall. Example 27: The step of providing a conveyor drum including a pusher includes: o providing a telescoping pusher including an inner tubular element and an outer tubular element; The step of linearly moving the pusher along the pusher direction includes: The method according to one or more of Examples 18-26, comprising sliding the inner tubing element inwardly or outwardly of the outer tubing element. Example 28: The method according to one or more of Examples 18-27, comprising transferring one or more rod-shaped articles from a first conveyor to a drum conveyor. Example 29: The first conveyor is a linear conveyor, and the method includes: o The method according to example 28, comprising conveying a plurality of rod-shaped articles with their longitudinal axes parallel to one another.

[0081] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0082] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a conveyor drum implemented in accordance with the present invention with some elements removed. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the conveyor drum of FIG. 1 with some more elements removed. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a detail of FIG. [Figure 4]4 and 5 are perspective exploded views of additional details of the conveyor drum of FIGS. 1-2 in an extended and retracted configuration, respectively. [Figure 5] Same as above. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of an exploded configuration of another detail of the drum conveyor of FIGS. 1-2. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a system for inspecting rod-shaped articles according to the present invention, with some elements removed for clarity. [Figure 8] 8 and 9 are perspective views of different details of FIG. 7, with some elements removed for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0083] 1-3 and 9, a conveyor drum adapted to rotate rod-shaped articles is generally designated 1.

[0084] A rod-shaped article 2 suitable for being conveyed and rotated by a conveyor drum 1 is seen in simplified form in Figure 3. The rod-shaped article 2 includes a first end 3 and a second end 4 and defines a longitudinal axis 5. Further, the rod-shaped article 2 includes a substantially cylindrical outer surface 6.

[0085] Conveyor drum 1 is adapted to rotate about drum axis of rotation 7. The conveyor drum includes an outer peripheral surface 8, is substantially cylindrical in shape, and has drum axis of rotation 7 as its center. Conveyor drum 1 includes a first wall 9 and a second wall 10 that face each other and are positioned on two opposite sides of outer peripheral surface 8. First wall 9 is fixed, i.e., does not rotate about drum axis of rotation 7 with the rest of conveyor drum 1, while second wall 10 rotates integrally with the rest of the conveyor drum. Outer peripheral surface 8 has been removed from drum conveyor 1 in FIG. 1 to better show the underlying structure.

[0086] Conveyor drum 1 includes a plurality of sheets, preferably N sheets, where N≧2. Among the sheets, preferably all having the same geometric shape, a first sheet and a second sheet are designated 12 and 13, respectively. First sheet 12 and second sheet 13 are nearest adjacent sheets. All N sheets, including first sheet 12 and second sheet 13, are located on outer peripheral surface 8 and are evenly spaced around outer peripheral surface 8. Each sheet of the plurality is adapted to hold and transport at least one rod-shaped article 2, as can be seen, for example, in FIGS. 2 and 9 . Hereinafter, all elements of the conveyor drum, such as outer peripheral surface 8 and N sheets, will rotate integrally with second wall 10, unless otherwise specified, such as first wall 9. Therefore, when drum conveyor 1 rotates, these elements of the conveyor drum will also rotate about drum rotation axis 7.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 3 , an enlarged view of the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 is shown. To hold the rod-shaped articles 2 while they are being transported, each of the plurality of sheets preferably includes an opening 14 connected to a pneumatic system (not shown in the drawing). The pneumatic system is adapted to exert suction on the rod-shaped articles 2 positioned within the sheet via the opening 14. Each sheet also includes a receiving surface 15 that contacts the outer surface 6 of the rod-shaped articles 2 when they are transported within the sheet. The receiving surface 15 is at least partially curved, e.g., comprises a cylindrical surface, and defines a sheet axis. The sheet axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 when they are transported within the sheet. As shown, the sheet axis of the first sheet 12 is designated 16, and the sheet axis of the second sheet 13 is designated 17.

[0088] The drum conveyor 1 comprises a plurality of shafts. The number of shafts is equal to the number of seats. A seat is associated with each shaft. Thus, the drum conveyor 1 comprises a first shaft 18 and a second shaft 19 associated with a first seat 12 and a second seat 13, respectively. The shafts can be seen more clearly in Figures 8 and 9. Each shaft is adapted to rotate about a shaft longitudinal axis. Thus, the first shaft 18 is adapted to rotate about a first shaft longitudinal axis 20, and the second shaft 19 is adapted to rotate about a second shaft longitudinal axis 21. The shaft longitudinal axes of all shafts are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis 7. Each shaft longitudinal axis extends along a radius of a circumference defined by a cross-section of the drum conveyor 1 taken along a plane perpendicular to the drum rotation axis 7. Each shaft further defines a first end 22 and a second end 23, with the first end 22 attached to the seat. The attachment between the seat and the shaft is such that rotation of the shaft about the shaft rotation axis corresponds to rotation of the seat axis about the shaft rotation axis, the shaft rotation axis and the seat axis preferably being at right angles to each other.

[0089] Further, each shaft includes a pinion. Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, only first shaft 18 and second shaft 19 are shown, with first shaft 18 including a first pinion 24 and second shaft 19 including a second pinion 25. First pinion 24 and second pinion 25 rotate integrally with first shaft 18 and second shaft 19, respectively. Thus, first pinion 24 and second pinion 25 are adapted to rotate about first shaft longitudinal axis 20 and second shaft longitudinal axis 21, respectively.

[0090] The drum conveyor 1 includes a plurality of pushers, all denoted by 26. Each pusher is interposed between two of the closest adjacent shafts. As shown in detail in FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, the pusher 26 is interposed between the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 19. The pusher 26 is rod-shaped and includes a first end 27 and a second end 28. The first end 27 abuts against the first wall 9, and the second end 28 is attached to the second wall 10. The second end 28 rotates integrally with the second wall 10, and the first end 9 can slide on the first wall 9. The pusher 26 also preferably defines a pusher direction 29 corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the pusher. The pusher direction 29 is preferably parallel to the drum rotation axis 7. The pusher 26 is telescopically extendable and includes an outer tubular member 30 and an inner tubular member 31, and the inner tubular member 31 is slidable along the pusher direction 29 inside the outer tubular member 30. Thus, the pusher 29 has a first extended configuration in which the inner tubular member 31 is outside the outer tubular member 30 by a given length L1 such that the overall length of the pusher 26 along the pusher direction 29 is at its maximum value, and a second contracted configuration in which the inner tubular member 31 is outside the outer tubular member 30 by a given length L2 (L2 < L1) such that the overall length of the pusher 26 along the pusher direction 29 is at its minimum value (see FIG. 1). The pusher 26 is adapted to perform a reciprocating motion, a linear motion, more specifically, along the pusher direction 29, from the contracted configuration shown in FIG. 5 to the extended configuration shown in FIG. 4, or vice versa.

[0091] 1 and 6, the drum conveyor 1 further includes a cam 32. The cam 32 is defined by the first wall 9. The cam 32 is preferably an end cam. The cam 32 includes an edge portion 33 of the first wall 9, which has a variable thickness. The edge portion 33 faces the second wall 10. The edge portion 33 includes a ridge 34 and a valley 35. Thus, the distance along a direction parallel to the drum rotation axis 7 between a point on the edge portion 33 and the second wall 10 varies depending on where the point is located on the edge portion, e.g., whether the point is located within the ridge 34 or the valley 35. The distance between the point on the edge portion 33 and the second wall 10 moves from a minimum point, e.g., on the peak of the ridge, to a maximum point, e.g., on the bottom of the valley. In the schematic side view of FIG. 1, the difference in overall length of the pusher 26 when the first end 27 is on the top of the ridge 34 or the bottom of the valley 35 is exaggerated to clearly illustrate the difference.

[0092] Pusher 26 has its first end 27 abutting first wall 9, in particular edge portion 33, and extends parallel to drum rotation axis 7. Thus, when first end 27 abuts a point on edge portion 33 at a minimum distance to second wall 10 (top of ridge 35), pusher 26 is in the contracted configuration of Figure 5. When first end 27 abuts a point on edge portion 33 at a maximum distance to second wall 10 (bottom of valley 35), pusher 26 is in the expanded configuration of Figure 4.

[0093] The difference between the maximum and minimum distances between a point on the edge portion 33 and the second wall 10 is equal to the amplitude of the movement of the pusher 26 along the pusher direction 29 .

[0094] The drum conveyor 1 further comprises springs 40, preferably one for each pusher 9. The springs 40 are inserted in a compressed state onto the inner tubular element 31 of the pusher 9 at the second end 28 of the pusher 26. Due to the compressed state, the springs 40 bias the pushers 26 towards the expanded configuration, exerting an elastic force directed along the pusher direction 29 towards the first wall 9.

[0095] 4 and 5, pusher 26 includes a first rack 36 and a second rack 37. First rack 36 faces first shaft 18, and second rack 37 faces second shaft 19. More specifically, first rack 36 engages first pinion 24, and second rack 37 engages second pinion 25. During linear movement of pusher 26 from the contracted configuration to the expanded configuration, or vice versa, first pinion 24 and second pinion 25 are forced to rotate due to the rack / pinion engagement. First shaft 18 and second shaft 19 then rotate about first shaft longitudinal axis 20 and second shaft longitudinal axis 21.

[0096] The function of the drum conveyor 1 is as follows, and reference is now made again to FIGS. 1-3. At time t=0, the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 are disposed on the outer peripheral surface 8 so that the first sheet axis 16 and the second sheet axis 17 are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis 7. This configuration is shown in FIG. 2, which considers the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 as the two sheets on the upper left side of the figure (indicated by the t=0 label). In this configuration, the first end 27 of the pusher 26 is in contact with the peak of the ridge 34, so that the pusher 26 is in the retracted configuration of FIG. 5. As soon as rotation of the drum conveyor 1 around the drum rotation axis 7 begins, the pusher 26 is rotated and conveyed together with the drum conveyor 1 (excluding the first wall 9), and the first end 27 of the pusher 26 slides over the lip portion 33, which remains fixed. The contact point between the first end 27 and the lip portion 33 of the pusher 26 moves from the ridge 34 toward the valley 35. Contact between the first end 27 and the lip portion 33 is maintained by an elastic force applied by a spring 40, which urges the first end 27 into contact with the lip portion 33. By moving downward toward the valley 35, the spring 40 can push the pusher 26 toward the first wall, causing the inner tubular element 31 to slide over the outside of the outer tubular element 30, increasing the overall length of the pusher 26. The relative sliding of the inner tubular element 31 and the outer tubular element 30 causes linear motion of the first rack 36 and the second rack 37, which are engaged with the first pinion 24 and the second pinion 25, respectively. Thus, the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 19 rotate about the first rotation axis 20 and the second rotation axis 21. The first shaft 18 and the second shaft 19 rotate in opposite directions. For example, the first shaft 18 rotates clockwise and the second shaft 19 rotates counterclockwise, which causes the first seat axis 16 and the second seat axis 17 to rotate.

[0097] As the drum conveyor 1 continues to rotate, the first end 27 of the pusher 26 continues to slide over the lip portion 33 until it reaches the bottom of the valley 35. In this configuration, the overall length of the pusher 26 is at its maximum and the pusher is in the expanded configuration of Figure 4. In this expanded configuration, the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 19 have rotated 90 degrees so that the first sheet axis 16 and the second sheet axis 17 are both parallel to the drum rotation axis 7. This configuration is illustrated in the right portion of the drum conveyor in Figure 2 (indicated at t=t1).

[0098] After the 90-degree rotation is achieved, the first end 27 of the pusher 26 preferably continues to slide on the lip portion 33, leaving the valley 35 and reaching another ridge 34, while the drum conveyor 1 continues to rotate. At the end of the 360-degree rotation of the drum conveyor 1, another 90-degree rotation of the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 19 is performed so that the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 again have first sheet axes 15 and second sheet axes 16 perpendicular to the drum rotation axis 7.

[0099] The drum conveyor 1 can be used in the system 100 for inspection of one or both of the first end 3 and second end 4 of the rod-shaped article 2 .

[0100] Referring initially to FIG. 7, system 100 includes a first conveyor drum and a second conveyor drum, each constructed as described with reference to FIGS. 1-6 and 9. To distinguish between the first and second conveyor drums, they are referred to as 1 and 50, respectively, but both are constructed identically to the conveyor drum identified as 1 above. Each of first conveyor drum 1 and second conveyor drum 50 includes a plurality of sheets on its outer peripheral surface 8 and rotates about its first drum axis of rotation 7 or second drum axis of rotation 70, respectively. Each of the plurality of sheets extends longitudinally along the sheet axis. Each of the first conveyor drum 1 and the second conveyor drum 50 is adapted to receive rod-shaped articles 2 at input stations 102 (for the first conveyor drum 1), 104 (for the second conveyor drum 50) while rotating, and to transport the rod-shaped articles 2 to output stations 103 (for the first conveyor drum 1), 105 (for the second conveyor drum 50).

[0101] The system 100 further includes a first linear conveyor 109 that conveys the rod-shaped articles 2 along a first conveying direction 110. The first conveying direction 110 is indicated by an arrow in Figure 7. The first linear conveyor 109 is adapted to convey the rod-shaped articles 2 along a path, the orientation of the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 being parallel to the first conveying direction 110. The rod-shaped articles 2 are positioned in a line, one after the other, within the first linear conveyor 109, and may be in abutting relationship or there may be a gap between two adjacent rod-shaped articles.

[0102] The system 100 further comprises a first transfer drum 101 adapted to rotate about a first drum axis 111. The first transfer drum 101 is adapted to transfer the rod-shaped articles 2 conveyed by the first linear conveyor 109 to the first conveyor drum 1, in particular to the first input station 102, while maintaining the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 aligned with the first conveying direction 110 (the transfer drum does not rotate the rod-shaped articles). The first conveyor drum 1 is adapted to convey the rod-shaped articles 2 received from the first transfer drum 101 at the first input station 102 to the first output station 103 while rotating about its first drum longitudinal axis 7. During rotation about its first drum rotation axis 7, the first conveyor drum 1 is adapted to rotate the longitudinal axes 5 of the conveyed rod-shaped articles 2 by 90 degrees so that the longitudinal axes 5 of the conveyed rod-shaped articles 2 are parallel to the first drum rotation axis 7 at the first output station 103. The system 100 further comprises an inspection drum 112 adapted to rotate about an inspection drum axis 113 and to receive the rod-shaped article 2 conveyed by the first conveyor drum 1 at a first output station 103. The inspection drum 112 can receive the rod-shaped article 2 when the rod-shaped article 2 has its longitudinal axis 5 parallel to the drum rotation axis 7. Transfer of the rod-shaped article 2 occurs at the output station 103. Furthermore, the inspection drum 112 is adapted to maintain the orientation of the longitudinal axis 5 unchanged. The system 100 further comprises a second conveyor drum 50 adapted to receive the rod-shaped article 2 from the inspection drum 112 at a second input station 104 and, when the rod-shaped article 2 reaches a second output station 105, to rotate the longitudinal axis 5 of the rod-shaped article 2 by 90 degrees while rotating about the drum rotation axis 70 so that the longitudinal axis 5 of the rod-shaped article 2 is again parallel to the first conveying direction 110. The system 100 further comprises a second transfer drum 130 and a second linear conveyor 140. The second transfer drum 130 is adapted to rotate about a second drum axis 131.The second transfer drum 130 is adapted to transfer the rod-shaped articles 2 conveyed by the second conveyor drum 50 at the second output station 105 to the second linear conveyor 140. The second transfer drum 130 is also adapted to maintain the orientation of the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 identical to the orientation they had at the second output station 105. Thus, when transferred to the second linear conveyor 140, the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 are aligned with the first conveying direction 110.

[0103] The second linear conveyor 140 conveys the rod-shaped articles 2 along a second conveying direction 141, indicated by an arrow in Figure 7. The second conveying direction 141 is preferably parallel to the first conveying direction 110. The second linear conveyor 140 is adapted to convey the rod-shaped articles 2 along a path, the orientation of the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 being parallel to the second conveying direction 141. The rod-shaped articles 2 are positioned in a line, one after the other, within the second linear conveyor 141, and may be in abutting relationship or there may be a gap between two adjacent rod-shaped articles.

[0104] The system further comprises an inspection device 150 for inspecting the first end 3, or the second end 4, or both, of the rod-shaped article 2. The inspection device 150 may include one or more cameras. The inspection device 150 is positioned on the inspection drum 112, preferably on one side of the inspection drum, where the ends 3, 4 of the rod-shaped article 2 are preferably inspected.

[0105] The first transfer drum 101 and the second transfer drum 130 are known in the art. They are preferably substantially identical to one another. The first transfer drum 101 and the second transfer drum 130 each include a plurality of grooves, all indicated at 107, adapted to engage rod-shaped articles 2. The first transfer drum 101 rotates about a first drum axis 111, preferably perpendicular to the first direction of movement 110, and the second transfer drum rotates about a second drum axis 131, also perpendicular to the first direction of movement 110. The grooves 107 are designed to hold the rod-shaped articles 2 with their longitudinal axes 5 substantially aligned with the first conveying direction 110 during rotation.

[0106] As the first transfer drum 101 rotates about its first drum axis 111, the grooves 107 holding the rod-shaped articles 2 reach the first input station 102 of the first conveyor drum 1. The rod-shaped articles 2 are thus delivered to the first conveyor drum 1 with their longitudinal axes 5 still parallel to the first conveying direction 110. This transfer is shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 9. For clarity, only some elements of the first conveyor drum 1 are shown. To achieve this transfer, the first conveyor drum 1 is mounted relative to the first transfer drum 101 at the first input station 102 so that the first and second sheets 12 and 13 of the first conveyor drum 1, which receive the rod-shaped articles 2, have their first and second sheet axes 16 and 17 parallel to the first conveying direction 110. The first drum axis 111 and the drum rotation axis 7 are parallel to each other. The transfer between the first transfer drum 101 and the first conveyor drum 1 is well known in the art and will not be described in detail herein.

[0107] As already detailed, upon rotation of the first conveyor drum 1 about the drum rotation axis 7, the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 rotate, and therefore the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles present in the first and second sheets. When the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles 2 reach a configuration in which they are parallel to the drum rotation axis 7, the rod-shaped articles 2 are transferred to the inspection drum 112. This transfer is shown in detail in FIG. 2. The inspection drum 112 includes a plurality of inspection grooves 114 configured to maintain the rod-shaped articles 2 with their longitudinal axes 5 perpendicular to the first conveying direction 110, meaning that their longitudinal axes 5 are parallel to the inspection drum axis 113. Each of the inspection grooves 114, which receives a rod-shaped article 2, preferably has a geometrically shaped notch formed on the disk (inspection drum) so that no elements cover the first and second ends of the rod-shaped articles.

[0108] During rotation of the inspection drum 112, the first end 3 or the second end 4, or both, of the rod-shaped article 2 located in the inspection groove 114 passes in front of the inspection device 150 (not shown in FIG. 2 ). The inspection device 150 is preferably located on one or both sides of the inspection drum 112 and inspects the condition of the first end 3 or the second end 4 of the rod-shaped article 2. Due to the orientation of the longitudinal axis 5 of the rod-shaped article 2 in the inspection groove 114, the first end 3 or the second end 4 faces the inspection device 150, and is therefore relatively easy to inspect.

[0109] As the inspection drum 112 rotates about its inspection drum axis 113, the inspection groove 114 holding the rod-shaped article 2 reaches the second input station 104 and is transferred to the second conveyor drum 50. The rod-shaped article 2 is thus delivered to the second conveyor drum 50 with its longitudinal axis 5 perpendicular to the first conveying direction 110. This transfer is shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 8. For purposes of clarity, only some elements of the second conveyor drum 50 are shown. To achieve this transfer, the second conveyor drum 50 is mounted relative to the inspection drum 112 at the second input station 104 such that the first and second sheets 12 and 13 of the second conveyor drum 50, which receive the rod-shaped article 2, have their first and second sheet axes 16 and 17 perpendicular to the first conveying direction 110. The inspection drum axis 113 and the second drum rotation axis 70 are parallel to each other.

[0110] During rotation of the second conveyor drum 50 about the second drum axis of rotation 70, the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 rotate, and therefore the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 present in the first and second sheets also rotate. When the longitudinal axes 5 of the rod-shaped articles 2 reach a configuration perpendicular to the second drum axis of rotation 70, the rod-shaped articles 2 are transferred to a second transfer drum 130 at a second output station 105. This transfer is shown in detail in FIG. 8. The second transfer drum 130 includes a plurality of grooves 107 configured to maintain the rod-shaped articles 2 with their longitudinal axes 5, which are perpendicular to the second drum axis 131, parallel to the first conveying direction 110. The grooves 107, each of which receives a rod-shaped article, preferably have the same shape as the grooves of the first transfer drum 101.

[0111] From the second transfer drum 130, the rod-shaped articles 2, oriented with their longitudinal axes 5 parallel to the first conveying direction 110, are conveyed in a known manner to a second linear conveyor 140. The second linear conveyor 140 conveys the rod-shaped articles 2 parallel to the first conveying direction without changing their orientation along a second conveying direction 141.

[0112] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are to be understood in all instances as modified by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is to be understood as A ± 10 percent. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the common standard error for measurement of the property represented by the number A. In some cases, as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages recited above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel property(ies) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims

1. 1. A drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and a peripheral surface, a first sheet and a second sheet, each adapted to convey rod-shaped articles, the first sheet and the second sheet positioned on the outer peripheral surface of the drum conveyor; a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis, the first seat being attached to the first shaft and the second seat being attached to the second shaft such that rotation of the first shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and rotation of the second shaft about the second shaft longitudinal axis causes rotation of the first seat and the second seat; a pusher coupled to the first shaft and the second shaft by a mechanical linkage, the pusher adapted to move linearly along a pusher direction and to engage the first shaft and the second shaft during movement; a drum conveyor comprising: an actuator adapted to move the pusher along the pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates about the drum rotation axis so as to simultaneously rotate the first shaft and the second shaft and the attached first sheet and second sheet.

2. 2. The drum conveyor of claim 1, wherein the actuator includes a cam that pushes the pusher along the pusher direction while the drum conveyor rotates about the drum axis of rotation.

3. 3. The drum conveyor of claim 2, wherein the drum conveyor comprises a first wall and a second wall located on two opposite sides of the outer peripheral surface, and the cam is defined by a portion of the first wall.

4. 4. The drum conveyor of claim 3, wherein the first wall is fixed.

5. 5. The drum conveyor of claim 1, wherein the pusher includes a first end and a second end, the first end of the pusher adapted to engage the actuator.

6. A drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the pushers are provided with elastic elements.

7. 7. A drum conveyor as claimed in claim 5 or 6 when dependent on claim 2 or 3, wherein a resilient element is adapted to urge the pusher towards the cam to maintain contact between the pusher and the cam.

8. 8. A drum conveyor according to claim 1, wherein the pusher is telescopic and comprises an inner tubular element and an outer tubular element, the inner tubular element being slidable within the outer tubular element along the pusher direction.

9. A drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical link between the first and second shafts and the pusher comprises a rack and pinion.

10. 10. The drum conveyor of claim 9, wherein the pusher includes a first rack and a second rack, the first shaft includes a first pinion, the second shaft includes a second pinion, and the pusher is positioned such that the first rack engages the first pinion and the second rack engages the second pinion.

11. 11. A drum conveyor according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the linear movement of the pusher defines an amplitude, the amplitude being selected such that the first sheet and the second sheet rotate through at least 90 degrees.

12. A plurality of N seats, a plurality of N shafts, and N / 2 pushers, wherein the kth (k=1 12. A drum conveyor according to claim 1, wherein each of the pushers (i, i+1) is connected to the two nearest adjacent shafts (i, i+1), where i=1, 3, 5...N-1, in accordance with claim 1, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 5

13. 1. A system for rotating a rod-shaped article, comprising: A drum conveyor according to any one of claims 1 to 12; an inspection device adapted to inspect rod-shaped articles positioned on the first sheet or the second sheet.

14. 1. A method of rotating a rod-shaped article having a longitudinal axis, comprising:

1. A drum conveyor defining a drum axis of rotation and a peripheral surface, the drum conveyor comprising: a first sheet and a second sheet positioned on the outer peripheral surface of the drum conveyor; a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft defining a first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft defining a second shaft longitudinal axis, the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis being substantially perpendicular to the drum rotation axis, the first seat attached to the first shaft and the second seat attached to the second shaft; and a pusher forming a mechanical connection with the first shaft and the second shaft; Positioning a rod-shaped article within the first sheet and within the second sheet; rotating the drum conveyor about the drum rotation axis; moving the pusher linearly along a pusher direction while rotating the drum conveyor; and converting the linear motion of the pusher into rotational motion of the first shaft and the second shaft about the first shaft longitudinal axis and the second shaft longitudinal axis so as to rotate the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles within the first sheet and the second sheet.

15. The step of rotating the drum conveyor includes: rotating the drum conveyor 360 degrees about the drum rotation axis; rotating the first shaft and the second shaft in the same 360 ​​degree rotation of the drum conveyor; rotating the first shaft and the second shaft from a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are perpendicular to the drum rotation axis to a configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum rotation axis; 15. The method of claim 14, comprising: rotating the first shaft and the second shaft from the configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum axis of rotation back to the configuration in which the longitudinal axes of the rod-shaped articles in the first sheet and the second sheet are parallel to the drum axis of rotation.

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