Adjustable roller for corrugating device for sheet material, roller unit for corrugating device for sheet material and method for adjusting position of longitudinal axis of roller for corrugating device for sheet material

Abstract

FIELD: adjustable roller device.SUBSTANCE: adjustable roller (20) for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising: a substantially cylindrical outer part (21) having a first end (22) and a second end (23) with a longitudinal axis of rotation (30) passing between the first end (22) and the second end (23); and a first sleeve (26) mounted inside the first end (22) of the roller, and a second sleeve (126) mounted inside the second end of the roller. Each of the first sleeve (26) and the second sleeve (126) has a corresponding cylindrical hole (28, 128) with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation. At least one of the first sleeve (26) and the second sleeve (126) is installed with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end (22,23) of the roller, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve (26) and the second sleeve (126) relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.EFFECT: adjustable roller for a corrugating device is proposed.15 cl, 21 dwg

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjustable roller, in particular, but not exclusively, to an adjustable roller for corrugating, for example, a tobacco sheet, a polymer sheet or a paper sheet, as well as to an adjustable sleeve for a roller such as a corrugating roller.

[0002] Tobacco industry equipment, like all equipment, is subject to maintenance. Any downtime means financial losses, so it's crucial to get the equipment up and running again as soon as possible. After any maintenance or troubleshooting that involves disassembling and reassembling parts, the equipment components must be adjusted relative to each other. Production lines for tobacco products, including heated-without-combustion aerosol-generating products, often contain units in which sheets of material pass between at least two rollers. The sheets of material can be unwound from rolls to be fed to the rollers.A specific example is a corrugating unit in which first and second substantially cylindrical corrugating rollers, each having a longitudinal axis of rotation and each provided with a plurality of substantially parallel circumferentially extending ridges around the outer surfaces of the cylindrical corrugating rollers, are arranged in close proximity to one another, wherein the first roller is substantially parallel to the second roller, such that the ridges of the first roller alternate with the ridges of the second roller along a tangent plane where the outer surfaces of the first and second rollers are in closest proximity. A sheet of material, such as a sheet of polymeric material or a sheet of homogenized tobacco material, is passed between the first and second rollers and corrugated by means of the alternating circumferentially extending ridges.It should be understood that cylindrical corrugating rollers must be adjusted in the micrometer range to ensure that the gap between the outer surfaces of the rollers in the tangential plane is substantially uniform in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axes of the rollers, with the proper ridge alignment to determine the desired corrugation value. If the gap is too narrow, the ridges may cut through the sheet of material, and if the gap is too wide, the sheet of material may not be corrugated properly. Moreover, if the gap is not substantially uniform along the lengths of the first and second rollers, the sheet of material may not be corrugated uniformly across its width. Adjusting the rollers is particularly time-consuming and requires qualified maintenance personnel, as otherwise, tolerances may be inadvertently exceeded, degrading the overall quality of the manufactured product.Tolerances are typically in the micrometer range, requiring a high level of precision when adjusting the corrugating rollers.

[0003] Figure 1 shows a corrugating unit according to the prior art, comprising first and second corrugating rollers, such as disclosed in document US 10888118, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated into the present description by reference. A continuous sheet of material is fed into the corrugating unit between the first and second corrugating rollers. Two corrugating rollers have a substantially tubular shape and are mounted by two flanges at the outer ends of the corrugating roller. A shaft is mounted along the longitudinal axis of each corrugating roller, as well as the axes of the mounting flanges, and the corrugating roller can be driven by rotation of the shaft, for example, by an electric motor. The shaft is mounted on a support frame. This design of several assembled parts, like any system, leads to an accumulation of tolerances that must be readjusted by maintenance personnel.Adjusting the corrugating rollers relative to each other takes time and must be performed with utmost precision. Furthermore, adjusting the corrugating rollers is a highly skilled task that can take a significant amount of time.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an adjustable roller for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising:

[0005] a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between the first end and the second end;

[0006] a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller;

[0007] wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation;

[0008] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is installed with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the roller, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0009] When the roller is mounted on a shaft that passes through the cylindrical bores of the first and second bushings, where the shaft is supported by an outer frame, offsetting the axis of one or the other, or both, bushings enables precise adjustment of the orientation (position) of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the cylindrical outer portion without the need to adjust the outer frame. In this context, precise adjustment means adjustment on a submillimeter scale, in the range of several hundred micrometers or less.

[0010] In certain embodiments, coarse adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation is achieved by adjusting the shaft support in the outer frame, and fine adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation is achieved by subsequently adjusting one or the other or both bushings.

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention enable quick and easy adjustment of the longitudinal axis of rotation during initial assembly of the roller or reassembly after disconnection for maintenance. It should be understood that each component of the mechanism will have a specified technical tolerance. Technical tolerances include allowable dimensional variations of components, allowable eccentricities of the rotation axes, and allowable diameter variations along the longitudinal axes, among other factors. Various technical tolerances in the system are combined with one another in a complex process of tolerance superposition or summation, meaning that small individual tolerances can result in a significantly larger overall tolerance. Embodiments of the present invention provide a quick and simple mechanism for compensating for superimposed tolerances in a production environment.This is especially true for alternating corrugating rollers, where technical tolerances during production can be in the micrometer scale.

[0012] At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be installed inside the corresponding end of the roller with a predetermined gap value in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, ensuring the possibility of adjustable fixation of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the corresponding end of the roller due to a plurality of adjustable fixing parts.

[0013] The specified clearance value allows for the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer part, and the adjustable locking parts allow for the adjustable fixation of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve at the desired displacement.

[0014] A plurality of adjustable locking members may be arranged circumferentially around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve. The plurality of adjustable locking members may be uniformly spaced circumferentially around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve. Adjustment of one of the adjustable locking members may be performed simultaneously with compensating adjustment in another of the adjustable locking members, for example, on the opposite circumferential portion of the sleeve. This allows the sleeve to be displaced relative to the longitudinal axis of the substantially cylindrical outer portion without loosening the sleeve within the corresponding end of the roller.

[0015] The plurality of adjustable locking members may comprise a plurality of set screws. The substantially cylindrical outer portion may be provided with a plurality of radially oriented, circumferentially spaced threaded holes at the first end or the second end, or at both the first end and the second end. The plurality of set screws may be configured to adjustably rotate within the threaded holes to securely hold the corresponding first sleeve or the second sleeve in place relative to the corresponding first end or the second end at selectable different offsets of the sleeve axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0016] The plurality of adjustable locking parts may comprise at least three adjustable locking parts. The plurality of adjustable locking parts may comprise at least four adjustable locking parts. The plurality of adjustable locking parts may comprise three adjustable locking parts. The plurality of adjustable locking parts may comprise four adjustable locking parts. If three adjustable locking parts are provided, they may be arranged at positions along the circumference at an angle of 120 degrees relative to each other. If four adjustable locking parts are provided, they may be arranged at positions along the circumference at an angle of 90 degrees relative to each other. Four adjustable locking parts provide a good balance between precise displacement and ease of adjustment.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be offset or tilted relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be rotationally adjustable relative to the cylindrical outer portion, allowing the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve to move along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

[0018] By adjusting the rotation of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the cylindrical outer portion, the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be moved along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical portion. When the roller is mounted on a shaft that passes through the cylindrical openings of the first sleeve and the second sleeve, wherein the shaft is supported by an outer frame, the rotation of one or the other or both of the sleeves relative to the cylindrical outer portion makes it possible to achieve precise adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation without the need to adjust the outer frame.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the offset of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve or the second sleeve from the longitudinal axis of rotation may be up to 1 mm, optionally up to 0.5 mm, optionally up to 0.1 mm, optionally up to 0.05 mm. In currently preferred embodiments, the offset is up to 0.1 mm, preferably up to 0.05 mm.

[0020] If the adjustment is achieved by rotating the sleeve relative to the substantially cylindrical outer portion, even a large (up to 180 degrees) rotation of the sleeve relative to the substantially cylindrical outer surface can have a relatively small effect on the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation, making it possible to achieve extremely precise orientation adjustment through relatively large-scale rotational adjustment of the sleeve, making it easier for even less skilled personnel to perform the adjustment.

[0021] In some embodiments, only one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is adjustable within the corresponding end of the roller. In these embodiments, the sleeve can be displaced relative to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical outer portion only at one end of the roller. Alternatively, both the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be adjustable within the corresponding ends of the roller, allowing for sleeve displacement at both ends of the roller.

[0022] In embodiments in which the axes of the first sleeve and the second sleeve are offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation, the offset, tilt, or offset and tilt may be the same amount for both the first sleeve and the second sleeve. Alternatively, the axes of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be offset, inclined, or offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by different amounts.

[0023] At least one end of the substantially cylindrical outer portion may be provided with a flange portion for accommodating a corresponding first sleeve or a second sleeve.

[0024] At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be detachably attached to the corresponding flange portion by a plurality of bolts.

[0025] At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be configured to be rotationally adjustable in the corresponding flange portion by loosening a plurality of bolts, rotating the sleeve by a predetermined amount, and then tightening the plurality of bolts.

[0026] Each of the flange portion and at least one of the first sleeve and second sleeve may be provided with marks indicating the relative rotation between the flange portion and the sleeve. The marks may be a numerical scale. The marks may provide a useful indication to maintenance personnel of the rotational magnitude and, therefore, the degree of adjustment of the first sleeve or second sleeve.

[0027] At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be provided with a plurality of recesses or projections configured to accommodate a tool or to be accommodated in a tool for rotationally adjusting the sleeve. The tool may be in the form of a key having projections or recesses that complement the recesses or projections formed in at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0028] The offset or tilt or the offset and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation can be provided due to the eccentricity in the corresponding flange portion.

[0029] The offset or tilt or offset and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation can be provided due to eccentricity in the sleeve.

[0030] The offset of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation may be no more than 1 mm, optionally no more than 0.5 mm, optionally no more than 0.1 mm, optionally no more than 0.05 mm.

[0031] The substantially cylindrical outer portion may have a length of from 200 mm to 500 mm along the longitudinal axis, optionally a length of from 300 mm to 400 mm along the longitudinal axis.

[0032] The substantially cylindrical outer part may have a diameter of 100mm to 300mm, optionally a diameter of 150mm to 250mm.

[0033] The substantially cylindrical outer portion may be provided with a plurality of substantially parallel circumferential ridges. The circumferential ridges may be configured to produce a desired corrugation pattern, for example, on a tobacco sheet, a polymer sheet, or a paper sheet.

[0034] The substantially cylindrical outer portion, first sleeve, and second sleeve may be made of any suitable material. Illustrative materials include steel and stainless steel, optionally coated with manganese phosphate. The flange portion may be made of the same or similar materials. Adjustable locking members or set screws may also be made of steel or another metal or alloy, if desired.

[0035] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a roller unit for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising a first adjustable roller according to the first aspect in combination with a second roller, comprising a substantially cylindrical outer portion, having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation, passing between the first and second ends, wherein the longitudinal axis of the second roller is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first roller, and wherein the first and second rollers are configured to move relative to each other to bring the cylindrical outer surfaces into close proximity to each other along a tangent plane between the cylindrical outer surfaces.

[0036] Since the adjustable offset of at least one of the first sleeve or the second sleeve of the first roller makes it possible to accurately adjust the longitudinal axis of rotation of the first roller relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the second roller, it is possible to achieve good alignment of the cylindrical outer surfaces along the tangent plane.

[0037] Accurate adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller relative to the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the second roller can be achieved by shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller.

[0038] Precise adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller relative to the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the second roller can be achieved by rotating at least one sleeve of the first roller inside the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller.

[0039] The second roller may comprise a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between the first end and the second end; a first sleeve mounted inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve mounted inside the second end of the roller; wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical opening with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the roller to provide the possibility of displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0040] Accordingly, both the first roller and the second roller can be adjustable without the need to change the location or adjust the frame or the corresponding frames in which the first and second rollers are mounted by means of shafts.

[0041] Each of the substantially cylindrical outer surfaces of the first and second rollers may be provided with a plurality of substantially parallel circumferentially extending ridges. The circumferential ridges of the first roller may alternate with the circumferential ridges of the second roller in a tangential plane when the first and second rollers are properly aligned. This provides a corrugating roller assembly in which a sheet of material can be passed between the rollers for corrugation. By precisely adjusting the relative orientations of the rotational axes of the first and second rollers, uniform corrugation of the sheet of material across its width is achieved.

[0042] When the cylindrical outer surfaces of the first roller and the second roller are brought into close proximity to each other along the tangent plane between the cylindrical outer surfaces, the circumferential ridges of the first roller extend between the circumferential ridges of the second roller in the tangent plane between the first roller and the second roller. This determines the "corrugation depth," where the corrugation depth is the distance, measured in the radial direction, between the corresponding peaks of the circumferential ridges of the first roller and the second roller on either side of the tangent plane.Thus, precise adjustment is oriented toward the desired corrugation depth across the width of the corrugating rollers, where the radial distance between the axis of the first roller and the maximum of the circumferential crests of the first roller on one side of the tangent plane is greater than the radial distance between the axis of the first roller and the maximum of the circumferential crests of the second roller on the other side of the tangent plane. The circumferential crests of the first roller alternate with the circumferential crests of the second roller, and the circumferential crests of each roller are correspondingly spaced axially, such that the crest of the circumferential crest of the first roller is substantially aligned with the corresponding depression between the circumferential crests of the second roller, and vice versa, which is advantageous.

[0043] Preferably, the corrugation depth is 50 to 500 micrometers, more preferably 100 to 300 micrometers.

[0044] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a combination of an inner sleeve and an outer flange portion is proposed, wherein the outer flange portion is configured to be inserted into the end of an adjustable roller for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation passing between the first end and the second end; wherein the sleeve has a cylindrical hole with an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation when the flange portion is inserted into the end of the adjustable roller; and wherein the sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the flange portion to ensure the possibility of displacement of the axis of the sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0045] The combination can be used in an existing roller to provide adjustment capability.

[0046] The sleeve can be installed within the flange portion with a predetermined clearance in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of rotation. The sleeve can be configured to be adjustablely locked relative to the flange portion by means of a plurality of adjustable locking parts.

[0047] The sleeve may be configured to be rotationally adjustable relative to the flange portion to allow the sleeve axis to move in an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

[0048] Offset or tilt, or offset and tilt, of the bushing axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation can be achieved by eccentricity in the flange portion. Offset or tilt, or offset and tilt, of the bushing axis from the longitudinal axis of rotation can be achieved by eccentricity in the bushing.

[0049] The sleeve can be removably attached to a corresponding flange portion using a plurality of bolts. The sleeve can be configured to be rotationally adjustable within the corresponding flange portion by loosening the plurality of bolts, rotating the sleeve by a predetermined amount, and then tightening the plurality of bolts.

[0050] Each flange and bushing may be provided with marks to indicate the relative rotation between the flange and bushing. The marks may be a numerical scale.

[0051] The sleeve may be provided with a plurality of recesses or projections configured to receive a tool or to be accommodated in a tool for rotationally adjusting the sleeve.

[0052] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for adjusting the orientation of a longitudinal axis of a roller for a corrugating device for sheet material is provided, wherein the roller comprises:

[0053] a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between the first end and the second end;

[0054] a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller;

[0055] wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and

[0056] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the roller, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation;

[0057] wherein the method includes adjusting the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the cylindrical outer part in such a way as to displace the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0058] The axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be offset from the longitudinal axis of rotation by up to 1 mm, optionally up to 0.5 mm, optionally up to 0.1 mm, optionally up to 0.05 mm.

[0059] At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be mounted within the corresponding end of the roller with a predetermined clearance in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be configured to be adjustablely fixed relative to the corresponding end of the roller by means of a plurality of adjustable locking members. At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be adjustablely offset relative to the cylindrical outer portion by adjusting the adjustable locking members.

[0060] A plurality of adjustable locking members may be arranged circumferentially around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve. The plurality of adjustable locking members may be uniformly spaced circumferentially around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0061] A plurality of adjustable fixing parts can contain a plurality of set screws.

[0062] The substantially cylindrical outer portion may be provided with a plurality of radially oriented, circumferentially spaced threaded holes at the first end or the second end, or at both the first end and the second end. A plurality of set screws can be adjusted to rotate within the threaded holes to securely hold the corresponding first sleeve or the second sleeve in place relative to the corresponding first end or the second end at selectable different offsets of the sleeve axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0063] The plurality of adjustable fixing parts may comprise at least three adjustable fixing parts or may comprise at least four adjustable fixing parts.

[0064] The axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation. At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be rotationally adjusted relative to the cylindrical outer portion, with the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve moving along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

[0065] In some embodiments, only one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is rotationally adjustable relative to the corresponding end of the roller, wherein the axis of the sleeve is offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0066] In some embodiments, both the first sleeve and the second sleeve are rotationally adjustable relative to the respective ends of the roller, wherein the axes of the sleeves are offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0067] The axes of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by the same amount.

[0068] The axes of the first sleeve and the second sleeve can be offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by different values.

[0069] At least one end of the substantially cylindrical outer portion may be provided with a flange portion for accommodating a corresponding first sleeve or a second sleeve.

[0070] The sleeve can be removably attached to the corresponding flange portion using a plurality of bolts. The sleeve can be rotated within the corresponding flange portion by loosening the plurality of bolts, rotating the sleeve by a predetermined amount, and then tightening the plurality of bolts.

[0071] Each flange and bushing may be provided with marks to indicate the relative rotation between the flange and bushing. The marks may be a numerical scale.

[0072] At least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve may be provided with a plurality of recesses or projections. A tool may be engaged with the plurality of recesses or projections for rotational adjustment of the sleeve.

[0073] The offset or tilt, or both the offset and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation can be provided due to the eccentricity in the corresponding flange portion.

[0074] The offset or tilt, or both the offset and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation can be provided due to eccentricity in the sleeve.

[0075] The offset of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation may be no more than 1 mm, optionally no more than 0.5 mm, optionally no more than 0.1 mm, optionally no more than 0.05 mm.

[0076] The substantially cylindrical outer portion may have a length of from 200 mm to 500 mm along the longitudinal axis, optionally a length of from 300 mm to 400 mm along the longitudinal axis.

[0077] The substantially cylindrical outer part may have a diameter of 100 mm to 300 mm, optionally a diameter of 150 mm to 250 mm.

[0078] The substantially cylindrical outer portion may be provided with a plurality of substantially parallel circumferentially extending ridges.

[0079] As used herein, the term "adjustable" describes a member that can be moved between at least two different positions, wherein the member remains in place in the position it is placed in during adjustment unless it is intentionally moved to a different position during adjustment.

[0080] In the context of this document, the term "sleeve" means a substantially cylindrical element having a longitudinal opening for receiving a shaft and adapted to be installed inside an outer substantially cylindrical tubular element.

[0081] As used herein, the term "corrugations" refers to a plurality of substantially parallel ridges consisting of alternating peaks and valleys connected by the sidewalls of the corrugations. These include, but are not limited to, corrugations having a square wave profile, a sinusoidal wave profile, a triangular profile, a sawtooth profile, or any combination thereof.

[0082] As used herein, the term "corrugating device" means a machine in which a sheet is passed between at least a pair of corrugated rollers to provide a plurality of corrugations on the sheet.

[0083] In the context of this document, the term "corrugation depth" means the distance, measured in the radial direction, between the corresponding peaks of the circumferential ridges of the first roller and the second roller on either side of the tangent plane passing between the first roller and the second roller, when the circumferential ridges of the first rollers and the second roller alternate in the tangent plane. The corrugation depth is the maximum distance between the peaks of the circumferential ridges of the first roller and the peaks of the circumferential ridges of the second roller in the tangent plane, when the circumferential ridges of the corresponding rollers alternate with each other.

[0084] As used herein, the term "fixably secured" describes a member that can be releasably fixed in place relative to another member such that there is no relative movement between the members.

[0085] As used herein, the term "flange portion" refers to the inner radial edge or rim of a substantially cylindrical outer portion that provides a mounting surface for the first sleeve or the second sleeve. The flange portion may be formed integrally with the cylindrical outer portion or may be a separate component that is attached to the cylindrical outer portion.

[0086] As used herein, the term "alternates" means that the corrugations of the first and second rollers at least partially extend between each other. This includes arrangements in which the corrugations of one or both rollers are symmetrical or asymmetrical. The corrugations of the rollers may be substantially aligned or at least partially offset. The crest of one or more corrugations of the first or second rollers may alternate with the valley of a single corrugation of the other of the first and second rollers. The corrugations of the first and second rollers may alternate in such a way that substantially all and each of the valleys of the corrugations of one of the first and second rollers receive one crest of the corrugation of the other of the first and second rollers for at least one or more sections along the circumference of the roller.

[0087] As used herein, the term "orbital trajectory" refers to a substantially circular path centered on the axis of rotation. Movement along an orbital trajectory includes movement along only a portion of the orbital trajectory, such as along an arc of the orbital trajectory.

[0088] As used herein, the term "polymer sheet" means a sheet made of a polymer, such as polylactic acid.

[0089] As used herein, the term "set screw" refers to a threaded element that can be moved in any direction along a threaded hole by rotating the set screw, with one end of the set screw protruding from the threaded hole in such a way as to contact the element being adjusted and hold it in place. A set screw may have a head or may be headless, such as a lock screw.

[0090] As used herein, the term "sheet" means a layered element having a width and a length that are substantially greater than its thickness.

[0091] As used herein, the term "substantially cylindrical" refers to a cylindrical shape with a substantially circular cross-section and a substantially constant diameter along the longitudinal length of the cylinder. The term "substantially cylindrical" encompasses substantially cylindrical elements having surface features, such as corrugations, that have a depth or height that is at least one order of magnitude smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical element.

[0092] As used herein, the term "tobacco leaf" means a leaf made from homogenized tobacco material formed by agglomerating shredded tobacco with optional binders.

[0093] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0094] Example Pr1: Adjustable roller for corrugating device for sheet material, comprising:

[0095] a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between the first end and the second end;

[0096] a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller;

[0097] wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation;

[0098] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the roller, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0099] Example Pr2: An adjustable roller according to example Pr1, where the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is designed with the possibility of displacement from the longitudinal axis of rotation by an amount of up to 1 mm, optionally up to 0.5 mm, optionally up to 0.1 mm, optionally up to 0.05 mm.

[0100] Example Pr3: An adjustable roller according to example Pr1 or Pr2, where at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is installed inside the corresponding end of the roller with a given gap value in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is designed with the possibility of adjustable fixation relative to the corresponding end of the roller by means of a plurality of adjustable fixing parts.

[0101] Example Pr4: An adjustable roller according to example Pr3, wherein a plurality of adjustable locking parts are arranged circumferentially around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0102] Example Pr5: An adjustable roller according to example Pr4, wherein a plurality of adjustable locking parts are uniformly spaced around a circumference around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0103] Example Pr6: An adjustable roller according to any one of examples Pr3 to Pr5, wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises a plurality of set screws.

[0104] Example Pr7: An adjustable roller according to example Pr6, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer portion is provided with a plurality of radially oriented, circumferentially spaced threaded holes at the first end or the second end or both at the first end and at the second end, and wherein the plurality of set screws are configured to be adjustable in rotation within the threaded holes to securely hold the corresponding first sleeve or the second sleeve in place relative to the corresponding first end or the second end at selectable different offsets of the sleeve axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0105] Example Pr8: An adjustable roller according to any one of examples Pr3-Pr7, wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises at least three adjustable fixing parts, or wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises at least four adjustable fixing parts.

[0106] Example Ex9: An adjustable roller according to example Ex1, wherein the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and

[0107] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is configured to allow rotational adjustment of the cylindrical outer portion, allowing the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve to move along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

[0108] Example Pr10: An adjustable roller according to any preceding example, wherein only one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is adjustablely mounted within the corresponding end of the roller.

[0109] Example Pr11: An adjustable roller according to any of the examples Pr1-Pr9, where both the first sleeve and the second sleeve are mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding ends of the roller.

[0110] Example Pr12: An adjustable shaft according to example Pr11, where the axes of the first sleeve and the second sleeve are offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by the same amount.

[0111] Example Pr13: An adjustable shaft according to example Pr11, where the axes of the first sleeve and the second sleeve are offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by different amounts.

[0112] Example Ex14: An adjustable roller according to any previous example, wherein at least one end of the substantially cylindrical outer portion is provided with a flange portion for receiving a corresponding first sleeve or second sleeve.

[0113] Example Pr15: An adjustable roller according to example Pr14, wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is detachably attached to the corresponding flange portion by means of a plurality of bolts.

[0114] Example Pr16: An adjustable roller according to example Pr15, where at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is configured to be rotationally adjustable in the corresponding flange portion by loosening a plurality of bolts, rotating the sleeve by a predetermined amount, and then tightening the plurality of bolts.

[0115] Example Pr17: An adjustable shaft according to any of examples Pr14-Pr16, where each of the flange portion and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is provided with marks to indicate the amount of relative rotation between the flange portion and the sleeve.

[0116] Example Pr18: Adjustable roller according to example Pr17, where the marks are a numerical scale.

[0117] Example Pr19: An adjustable roller according to any previous example, wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is provided with a plurality of recesses or projections adapted to receive a tool or to be received in a tool for rotationally adjusting the sleeve.

[0118] Example Pr20: An adjustable shaft according to example Pr9 or any of examples Pr10-Pr19 depending on example Pr9, where the offset or tilt or the offset and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation are provided due to the eccentricity in the corresponding flange part.

[0119] Example Pr21: An adjustable roller according to example Pr9 or any of examples Pr10-Pr19 depending on example Pr9, where the offset or tilt or the offset and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation are provided due to eccentricity in the sleeve.

[0120] Example Pr22: An adjustable roller according to example Pr9 or any of examples Pr10-Pr21 depending on example Pr9, where the displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation is no more than 1 mm, optionally no more than 0.5 mm, optionally no more than 0.1 mm, optionally no more than 0.05 mm.

[0121] Example Ex23: An adjustable roller according to any preceding example, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer portion has a length of from 200 mm to 500 mm along the longitudinal axis, optionally a length of from 300 mm to 400 mm along the longitudinal axis.

[0122] Example Pr24: An adjustable roller according to any preceding example, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer portion has a diameter of from 100 mm to 300 mm, optionally a diameter of from 150 mm to 250 mm.

[0123] Example Pr25: An adjustable roller according to any preceding example, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer portion is provided with a plurality of substantially parallel circumferentially extending ridges.

[0124] Example Ex26: A roller unit for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising a first adjustable roller according to any preceding paragraph in combination with a second roller, comprising a substantially cylindrical outer portion, having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation, passing between the first and second ends, wherein the longitudinal axis of the second roller is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first roller, and wherein the first and second rollers are configured to move relative to each other to bring the cylindrical outer surfaces into close proximity along a tangent plane between the cylindrical outer surfaces.

[0125] Example Pr27: A roller block according to example Pr26, where precise adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller relative to the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the second roller is achieved by shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller.

[0126] Example Pr28: A roller block according to example Pr26, where precise adjustment of the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller relative to the orientation of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the second roller is achieved by rotating at least one sleeve of the first roller inside the substantially cylindrical outer portion of the first roller.

[0127] Example Pr29: A roller block according to any of the examples Pr26-Pr28, where the second roller comprises:

[0128] a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between the first end and the second end;

[0129] a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller;

[0130] wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and

[0131] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the roller, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0132] Example Pr30: A roller block according to any one of examples Pr26-Pr29, wherein each of the substantially cylindrical outer surfaces of the first and second rollers is provided with a plurality of substantially parallel circumferentially extending ridges, and wherein the circumferentially extending ridges of the first roller alternate with the circumferentially extending ridges of the second roller in a tangent plane when the first and second rollers are properly aligned.

[0133] Example Pr31: A combination of an inner sleeve and an outer flange portion, where the outer flange portion is configured to be inserted into the end of an adjustable roller for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation passing between the first and second ends;

[0134] wherein the sleeve has a cylindrical bore with an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation when the flange portion is installed at the end of the adjustable shaft; and

[0135] in this case, the sleeve is installed with the possibility of adjustment inside the flange part, ensuring the possibility of shifting the sleeve axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0136] Example Pr32: A combination according to example Pr31, where the axis of the sleeve is designed with the possibility of displacement relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by up to 1 mm, optionally up to 0.5 mm, optionally up to 0.1 mm, optionally up to 0.05 mm.

[0137] Example Pr33: A combination according to examples Pr31 or Pr32, where the sleeve is installed inside the flange part with a given clearance value in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of rotation, and wherein the sleeve is designed with the possibility of adjustable fixation relative to the flange part by means of a plurality of adjustable fixing parts.

[0138] Example Pr34: The combination according to example Pr33, wherein a plurality of adjustable fixing parts are arranged circumferentially around the sleeve.

[0139] Example Pr35: The combination according to example Pr34, wherein a plurality of adjustable locking parts are evenly spaced around the circumference of the sleeve.

[0140] Example P36: A combination according to any one of examples Pr33-Pr35, wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises a plurality of set screws.

[0141] Example Pr37: The combination according to example Pr36, where the outer flange part is provided with a plurality of radially oriented, circumferentially spaced threaded holes, and wherein the plurality of set screws are configured to be adjustable in rotation within the threaded holes so as to reliably hold the sleeve in place relative to the outer flange part with selectable different offsets of the sleeve axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0142] Example Pr38: A combination according to any of examples Pr33-Pr37, wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises at least three adjustable fixing parts, or wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises at least four adjustable fixing parts.

[0143] Example Pr39: The combination according to example Pr31, where the sleeve is designed with the possibility of adjustable rotation relative to the outer flange part, ensuring the possibility of moving the sleeve axis along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

[0144] Example Pr40: Combination according to example Pr39, where the offset or tilt or offset and tilt of the sleeve axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation is provided due to eccentricity in the outer flange part.

[0145] Example Pr41: Combination according to example Pr39, where the offset or tilt or the offset and tilt of the bushing axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation are provided due to eccentricity in the bushing.

[0146] Example Pr42: A combination according to any of examples Pr31-Pr41, where the sleeve is releasably attached to the outer flange portion by means of a plurality of bolts.

[0147] Example Pr43: The combination according to example Pr42, wherein the sleeve is designed with the possibility of rotational adjustment in the outer flange portion by loosening a plurality of bolts, rotating the sleeve by a predetermined amount, and then tightening the plurality of bolts.

[0148] Example Pr44: The combination according to example Pr43, where each of the outer flange part and the sleeve is provided with marks to indicate the amount of relative rotation between the outer flange part and the sleeve.

[0149] Example Pr45: Combination according to example Pr44, where the marks represent a numerical scale.

[0150] Example Pr46: A combination according to any of the examples Pr31-Pr45, where the sleeve is provided with a plurality of recesses or projections configured to accommodate a tool or to be accommodated in a tool for rotational adjustment of the sleeve.

[0151] Example Pr47: A method for adjusting the orientation of the longitudinal axis of a roller for a corrugating device for sheet material, wherein the roller comprises:

[0152] a substantially cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between the first end and the second end;

[0153] a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller;

[0154] wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and

[0155] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the roller, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation;

[0156] wherein the method includes adjusting the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the cylindrical outer part with displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0157] Example Pr48: The method according to example Pr47, where the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is displaced relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by an amount of up to 1 mm, optionally up to 0.5 mm, optionally up to 0.1 mm, optionally up to 0.05 mm.

[0158] Example Pr49: The method according to example Pr47 or Pr48, wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is installed inside the corresponding end of the roller with a given gap value in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is configured to be adjustablely fixed relative to the corresponding end of the roller by means of a plurality of adjustable fixing parts; and wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is adjustablely displaced relative to the cylindrical outer part by adjusting the adjustable fixing parts.

[0159] Example Pr50: The method according to example Pr49, wherein a plurality of adjustable locking parts are arranged circumferentially around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0160] Example Pr51: ​​The method according to example Pr50, wherein a plurality of adjustable locking parts are uniformly spaced around a circumference around at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve.

[0161] Example Pr52: The method according to any one of examples Pr49-Pr51, wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises a plurality of set screws.

[0162] Example Pr53: The method according to example Pr52, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer part is provided with a plurality of radially oriented, circumferentially spaced threaded holes at the first end or the second end or both at the first end and at the second end, and wherein the plurality of set screws are adjustablely rotated inside the threaded holes to securely hold the corresponding first sleeve or the second sleeve in place relative to the corresponding first end or the second end at selectable different offsets of the axis of the sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0163] Example Pr54: The method according to any of examples Pr49-Pr53, wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises at least three adjustable fixing parts, or wherein the plurality of adjustable fixing parts comprises at least four adjustable fixing parts.

[0164] Example Pr55: The method according to example Pr47, where the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is offset or inclined or offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and

[0165] wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is rotationally adjusted relative to the cylindrical outer part in such a way that the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve moves along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

[0166] Example Pr56: The method according to example Pr55, wherein only one of the first and second bushings is rotationally adjusted relative to the corresponding end of the shaft with an offset or tilt or an offset and tilt of the bushing axis relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0167] Example Pr57: The method according to example Pr55, where both of the first and second bushings are rotationally adjusted relative to the corresponding ends of the shaft with an offset or tilt or an offset and tilt of the axes of the bushings relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

[0168] Example Pr58: The method according to example Pr57, where the axes of the first and second bushings are offset or inclined or offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by the same amount.

[0169] Example Pr59: The method according to example Pr57, where the axes of the first and second bushings are offset or inclined, or offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by different amounts.

[0170] Example Pr60: The method according to any of examples Pr47-Pr59, wherein at least one end of the substantially cylindrical outer part is provided with a flange part for accommodating the corresponding first or second sleeve.

[0171] Example Pr61: The method according to example Pr60, wherein the sleeve is detachably attached to the corresponding flange part by means of a plurality of bolts.

[0172] Example Pr62: The method according to example Pr61, wherein the sleeve is rotationally adjusted in the corresponding flange portion by loosening a plurality of bolts, rotating the sleeve by a predetermined amount, and then tightening the plurality of bolts.

[0173] Example Pr63: The method according to any of the examples Pr60-Pr62, where each of the flange part and the sleeve is provided with marks to indicate the amount of relative rotation between the flange part and the sleeve.

[0174] Example Pr64: The method according to example Pr63, where the marks represent a numerical scale.

[0175] Example Pr65: The method according to any of examples Pr47-Pr64, where at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is provided with a plurality of recesses or projections, and wherein the tool is engaged with said plurality of recesses or projections for rotational adjustment of the sleeve.

[0176] Example Pr66: The method according to example Pr55 or any of examples Pr56-Pr65 depending on example Pr55, where the displacement or tilt or the displacement and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation are provided due to the eccentricity in the corresponding flange part.

[0177] Example Pr67: The method according to example Pr55 or any of examples Pr56-Pr65 depending on example Pr55, where the displacement or tilt or the displacement and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation are provided due to eccentricity in the sleeve.

[0178] Example Pr68: The method according to example Pr55 or any of examples Pr56-Pr67 depending on example Pr55, where the displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation is no more than 1 mm, optionally no more than 0.5 mm, optionally no more than 0.1 mm, optionally no more than 0.05 mm.

[0179] Example Pr69: The method according to any of examples Pr47-Pr68, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer part has a length of 200 mm to 500 mm along the longitudinal axis, optionally a length of 300 mm to 400 mm along the longitudinal axis.

[0180] Example Pr70: The method according to any of the examples Pr47-Pr69, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer part has a diameter from 100 mm to 300 mm, optionally a diameter from 150 mm to 250 mm.

[0181] Example Pr71: The method according to any of the examples Pr47-Pr70, wherein the substantially cylindrical outer part is provided with a plurality of substantially parallel ridges extending along the circumference.

[0182] Example Pr72: The method according to any of the examples Pr47-Pr71, where before adjusting the offset of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve, the roller is adjustablely mounted in a frame of the corrugating machine, substantially parallel to the second roller, and wherein the roller is adjusted inside the frame to a first predetermined tolerance with alignment of the substantially cylindrical part of the roller with the corresponding substantially cylindrical part of the second roller along a tangent plane, where the outer circumferential surfaces of the roller and the second roller are in close proximity.

[0183] Example Pr73: The method according to example Pr72, where the roller is adjusted to a second predetermined tolerance, which is less than the first predetermined tolerance, by adjusting the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the cylindrical outer part with the displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0184] The examples will be further described below with reference to the figures of the drawings, in which:

[0185] Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of the arrangement of two corrugating rollers inside a corrugating block;

[0186] Fig. 2 shows a more detailed view of the alternating corrugations of the corrugating rollers of Fig. 1, wherein the corrugating rollers are not completely aligned;

[0187] Fig. 3 shows a longitudinal section through the adjustable roller according to the present invention in a first position of rotation;

[0188] Fig. 4 shows a side view of the left end of the adjustable roller of Fig. 3;

[0189] Fig. 5 shows a longitudinal section through the adjustable roller of Fig. 3 in the second position of rotation;

[0190] Fig. 6 shows an axial section through the left end of the adjustable roller of Fig. 5;

[0191] Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an alternative adjustable roller according to the present invention;

[0192] Fig. 8 shows a longitudinal section through the adjustable roller of Fig. 7;

[0193] Fig. 9 shows an end view of the left end of the adjustable roller of Fig. 7;

[0194] Fig. 10-12 show three stages of adjustment of the adjustable roller of Fig. 7;

[0195] Fig. 13 and 14 show longitudinal sections through the right end of the adjustable roller of Fig. 7, mounted on the shaft, with two different adjustments;

[0196] Fig. 15-17 show a front view, a side view and a rear view of a flange portion of an adjustable roller according to the present invention;

[0197] Fig. 18 shows a front view of an alternative flange portion of an adjustable roller according to the present invention; and

[0198] Fig. 19-21 show a front view, a side view and a rear view of the adjustable roller sleeve according to the present invention.

[0199] Fig. 1 shows a corrugating unit 1 comprising a first corrugating roller 2 and a second corrugating roller 102 installed in a substantially parallel and adjacent arrangement. Each of the first corrugating roller 2 and the second corrugating roller 102 comprises a substantially cylindrical outer part 3, 103 having a first end 4, 104 and a second end 5, 105 with a longitudinal axis of rotation 6, 106 passing between the first end 4, 104 and the second end 5, 105. Each of the first corrugating roller 2 and the second corrugating roller 102 also comprises a first sleeve 7, 107 at the first end 4, 104 and a second sleeve 8, 108 at the second end 5, 105. The first sleeves 7, 107 and the second sleeves 8, 108 are fixedly mounted inside the corresponding substantially cylindrical outer part 3, 103.Each of the first bushings 7, 107 and the second bushings 8, 108 has a central hole (not shown) configured to accommodate a shaft (not shown) in such a way that the first shaft (not shown) passes through the first bushing 7 and the second bushing 8, and the second shaft (not shown) passes through the first bushing 107 and the second bushing 108. The corrugating block 1 is mounted in a frame (not shown), and the first shaft and the second shaft can be driven by motors in such a way as to rotate the first corrugating roller 2 and the second corrugating roller 102 in opposite directions of rotation. The cylindrical outer portion 3, 103 of each of the first roller 2 and the second roller 102 is provided with corrugations 9, 109 extending along the circumference, which can alternate with each other along the tangent plane between the cylindrical outer portions 3, 103, when the first roller 2 is located adjacent to the second roller 102, as shown more clearly in Fig. 2.A sheet 10 of material, such as a tobacco sheet or a polymer sheet, may be fed between the first roller 2 and the second roller 102 to corrugate the sheet 10 by giving the sheet 10 a corrugated profile by means of alternating corrugations 9, 109 running along the circumference.

[0200] In the illustrated example, the central holes of the first sleeve 7 and the second sleeve 8 are concentric with the longitudinal axis 6 of rotation of the cylindrical outer portion 3 of the first shaft 2. Similarly, the central holes of the first sleeve 107 and the second sleeve 108 are concentric with the longitudinal axis 106 of rotation of the cylindrical outer portion 103 of the second shaft 102. This means that the first shaft coincides with the longitudinal axis 6 of rotation, and the second shaft coincides with the longitudinal axis 106 of rotation. As a result, the only way to adjust the longitudinal axes 6, 106 of rotation is to adjust the installation of the first and second shafts in the frame, which can be a complex and time-consuming procedure.

[0201] As can be seen in Fig. 2, if the longitudinal axes 6, 106 of rotation are not completely aligned parallel, the corrugations 9, 109 running along the circumference will not properly alternate along the length of the cylindrical outer parts 3, 103 and may not alternate at all in the direction of one of the ends of the tangent plane. As a result, the sheet 10, which passes between the first roller 2 and the second roller 102, may not be corrugated properly across the width of the sheet 10.

[0202] Fig. 3 shows a longitudinal section through the adjustable roller 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention in the first rotation position. The adjustable roller 20 comprises a substantially cylindrical outer portion 21 with a first end 22 and a second end 23, as well as a longitudinal axis 30 of rotation. The corrugations extending along the circumference are not visible, since the structural height of the corrugations is below the resolution of the graphic materials. Fig. 4 shows an end view of the first end 22 of the adjustable roller 20 of Fig. 3. The first flange portion 24 is mounted inside the first end 22 of the cylindrical outer portion 21 by means of bolts 25. Similarly, the second flange portion 124 is mounted inside the first end 23 of the cylindrical outer portion 21 by means of bolts 125. The first sleeve 26 is configured to be attached to the first flange portion 24 at the first end 22 by means of bolts 27.Similarly, the second sleeve 126 is configured to be fixed on the second flange portion 124 at the second end 23 using bolts 127. The first sleeve 26 has a central hole 28. The second sleeve 126 has a central hole 128. The central holes 26, 126 are configured to accommodate a shaft (not shown) that can be rotated by a motor to rotate the roller 20. It is important to note that at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 is configured to be axially displaced (when loosening the bolts 27, 127) relative to the corresponding flange portion 24, 124 and, thus, relative to the cylindrical outer portion 21 and the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation. The possibility of axial displacement is ensured by providing a given gap value between at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 and the corresponding flange part 24, 124 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation.Each of the central openings 28, 128 (and, accordingly, each of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126) has its own longitudinal axis of rotation, and the longitudinal axis of rotation of at least one of the central openings 28, 128 (and, accordingly, at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126) can, accordingly, be radially offset from the longitudinal axis of rotation of the cylindrical outer part 21 by a small amount. The offset of the longitudinal axis of rotation of at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the cylindrical outer part 21 provides a precise degree of adjustment without the need to adjust the installation of the roller 20 in the outer frame (not shown). The adjustment contributes to the correct mutual alignment of the pair of rollers 20 when included in the corrugating unit, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0203] Fig. 5 shows a longitudinal section through the adjustable shaft 20 of Fig. 3 and 4 in another rotation position. Fig. 6 shows an axial section A-A through the second end 23 of the adjustable shaft 20 of Fig. 5. Fig. 5 and 6 show four adjustable locking parts in the form of set screws 31, 131, which are located in threaded holes 32, 132, which are oriented radially in at least one of the flange portions 24, 124. The set screws 31, 131 can be moved along the threaded holes 32, 132 in both directions by rotation. The threaded holes 32, 132 are accessible from the outer circumference of the flange portion 24, 124, providing the possibility of rotation and adjustment of the set screws 31, 131 using a suitable tool.In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded holes 32, 132 are located at an angle of 90 degrees relative to each other along the circumference of the flange portion 24, 124, although it should be understood that for three threaded holes 32, 132, an angular gap of 120 degrees would be suitable and similarly for other numbers of threaded holes 32, 132. It can be seen that a very precise and controlled adjustment of the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 relative to the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation of the cylindrical outer portion 21 can be achieved by adjusting the set screws 31, 131 inside the threaded holes 32, 132. Each of the set screws 31, 131 has an inner end that can slightly protrude from the inner circumference of the flange portion 24, 124 in order to adjust and hold at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 12 6.Each of the set screws 31, 131 has an outer end that can be engaged with a suitable tool (such as a hex key) to allow the set screws 31, 131 to rotate and, therefore, move along the threaded holes 32, 132 in any direction. In this way, the radial displacement of at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 relative to the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation of the cylindrical outer part 21 can be achieved without the need to adjust the installation of the roller 20 in the outer frame (not shown). Due to the arrangement of the set screws 31, 131 and the threaded holes 32, 132 in radially opposite positions along the circumference of the flange part 24, it is possible to carry out precise and controlled displacements of at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 by performing additional adjustments of the opposite set screws 31, 131.The mechanical advantage obtained by using the set screws 31, 131 in the threaded holes 32, 132 allows for controlled displacement of even heavy components, such as the cylindrical outer part 21, relative to at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126. By providing a plurality of set screws 31, 131 and threaded holes 32, 132 around the circumference of the flange part 24, 124, the possibility of displacement in any radial direction is ensured.

[0204] Although it may be possible to securely hold at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 in engagement with the corresponding flange portion 24, 124, it may be preferable, after at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 is correctly adjusted, to securely engage the sleeve 26, 126 with the corresponding flange portion 24, 124 by means of bolts 27, 127. Bolts 27, 127 can pass through bolt holes that have sufficient radial clearance relative to bolts 27, 127 to allow radial displacement of sleeve 26, 126 relative to flange portion 24, 124 before tightening bolts 27, 127.

[0205] Fig. 7 is an isometric view of the adjustable roller 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein Fig. 8 is a longitudinal section through the adjustable roller 20 of Fig. 7, and Fig. 9 is an end view of the left end of the adjustable roller 20 of Fig. 7. Similar to the previous embodiment, the adjustable roller 20 of Figs. 7-9 has a substantially cylindrical outer portion 21 with a first end 22 and a second end 23, as well as a longitudinal axis 30 of rotation. The first flange portion 24 is mounted inside the first end 22 of the cylindrical outer portion 21 by means of bolts 25. Similarly, the second flange portion 124 is mounted inside the first end 23 of the cylindrical outer portion 21 by means of bolts 125. The first sleeve 26 is configured to be attached to the first flange portion 24 at the first end 22 by means of bolts 27.Similarly, the second sleeve 126 is configured to be fixed to the second flange portion 124 at the second end 23 using bolts 127. The first sleeve 26 has a central hole 28. The second sleeve 126 has a central hole 128. The central holes 26, 126 are configured to receive a shaft (not shown) that can be rotated by a motor to rotate the roller 20. In this embodiment, the central hole 28, 128 of at least one of the first sleeve 26 and the second sleeve 126 has an axis that is slightly radially offset from the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation of the cylindrical outer portion 21. The radial offset can be due to eccentricity in the flange portion 24, 124 or due to eccentricity in the sleeve 26, 126, or due to eccentricity both in the flange portion 24, 124, and in sleeve 26, 126.Accordingly, by rotating the sleeve 26, 126 relative to the flange part 24, 124, the axis of the sleeve 26, 126 can be moved along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation. The degree of rotation of the sleeve 26, 126 relative to the flange part 24, 124 is indicated by a reference number 40 on the flange part 24, 124, and a marker 41 provided on the sleeve 26, 12 6. To ensure the possibility of rotation of the sleeve 26, 126 relative to the flange part 24, 124, the bolts 27, 127 can be removed. After rotating the sleeve 26, 126 to the desired position, as indicated by the marks 40 and the marker 41, the bolts 27, 127 can be reinserted and tightened.

[0206] The sleeve 26, 126 can be provided with recesses 42 configured to receive corresponding projections of a tool 43 configured to facilitate rotation of the sleeve 26, 126 inside the flange portion 24, 124, as shown in Fig. 10-12. The marks 40 can be in the form of a numerical scale to provide an easy-to-read indicator of the degree of relative rotation. In Fig. 10, the sleeve 26 is in position "1". The bolts 27 are removed, and the tool 43 is used to rotate the sleeve 26 clockwise, as shown in Fig. 11. In Fig. 12, the sleeve 26 is turned to position "3" and the bolts 27 have been reinserted and tightened. By moving the axis of the sleeve 26 along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis 30 of rotation of the outer cylindrical part 21, it becomes possible to precisely adjust the axis of rotation of the entire roller 20, which makes it possible to precisely align one roller 20 with another roller in the corrugating block 1, as essentially shown in Fig. 1.

[0207] It should be understood that the eccentricity of the sleeve 26, 126 or the flange 24, 124 is relatively small, for example, less than 1 mm, or less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.1 mm, or less than 0.05 mm. Accordingly, even a relatively large rotational displacement of the sleeve 26, 126 relative to the flange 24, 124 will have only a minor effect on the orientation of the rotation axis of the entire shaft 20. As a result, precise adjustment is facilitated, even for less skilled personnel.

[0208] Figures 13 and 14 show an adjustable roller 20 of the type shown in Figures 7-10 mounted on a shaft 50 that is driven by a motor (not shown) to rotate the roller 20. The elements in Figures 18 and 14 are designated as in Figures 7-10. In Figure 18, the sleeve 26 is in a first rotational position relative to the flange portion 24 (for example, in position "1" in Figure 10), and in Figure 14, the sleeve 26 is in a second rotational position relative to the flange portion 24 (for example, in position "3" in Figure 12). It can be seen how the orbital rotation at eccentricity in the sleeve 26 moves the axis of rotation of the shaft 50 relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the outer cylindrical portion 21, providing the ability to accurately adjust the orientation of the entire roller 20.

[0209] Fig. 15-17 show a front view, a side view and a rear view, respectively, of a flange portion 24 of an adjustable roller 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The flange portion 24 has an outer circle 60 that is placed inside the end of the cylindrical outer portion 21 of the roller 20, and bolt holes 61 are intended to receive bolts 25 that attach the flange portion 24 to the end 22 of the cylindrical outer portion 21 of the roller 20. The flange portion 24 has an inner circle 62 that forms an opening 64 for receiving a sleeve 26 (not shown in Fig. 15 and 16). Holes 63 are provided for bolts around the inner circumference 62 to accommodate bolts 27 that connect the sleeve 26 to the flange portion 24. Marks 40 are provided in the form of a numerical scale around the circumference of the flange portion 24. In this embodiment, it can be seen that the holes 63 for bolts are aligned with the mark 40.In the illustrated embodiment, there are eighteen marks 40 and eighteen corresponding bolt holes 63. This means that the sleeve 26 can be bolted to the flange portion 24 in any of eighteen separate rotational positions. The number of bolt holes 63 may be greater or less than eighteen, but in each case, the rotational positions available for securing the sleeve 26 to the flange portion 24 are determined by the number of bolt holes 63.

[0210] Fig. 18 shows a front view of an alternative flange portion 24. Instead of eighteen individual bolt holes 63, this flange portion 24 has six arcuate cutouts 65 provided around the inner circumference 62. The number of arcuate cutouts 65 is not particularly significant. This arrangement makes it possible to attach the sleeve 26 to the flange portion 24 with bolts in a more continuously variable manner, making it possible to obtain rotation positions between whole marks 40.

[0211] Fig. 19-21 show a front view, a side view and a rear view of the sleeve 26 of the adjustable roller 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively. The sleeve 26 has an outer circle 70 and a central hole 28, which is eccentric with respect to the outer circle 70. An inner circle 73 surrounds the central hole 28. The central hole 28 may have an axis that is inclined with respect to the axis of the outer circle 70. The central hole 28 may have an axis that is radially offset with respect to the axis of the outer circle 70. Accordingly, rotation of the sleeve 26 relative to the flange portion 24 makes it possible to accurately adjust the rotation axis of the outer cylindrical portion 21 with respect to the rotation axis of the shaft 50, as shown in Fig. 18 and 14. The front surface 71 of the sleeve 26 is provided with recesses 42, designed to accommodate the corresponding projections of the tool 43, as shown in Fig. 10-12.The front surface 71 of the sleeve is also provided with holes 72 for bolts for accommodating bolts 27 that connect the sleeve 26 to the flange portion 24. On the front surface 71, on the outer circumference 70, a marker 41 is provided in order to, in combination with the marks 40 on the flange portion 24, provide an easily readable indicator of the rotational position of the sleeve 26 relative to the flange portion 24.

[0212] For the purposes of this description and the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc., shall be understood as modified in all instances by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges therebetween, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Therefore, in this context, the number A shall be understood as A+5% of A. In this context, the number A may be considered to include numerical values ​​that are within the normal standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies.In some cases, the number A, when used in the appended claims, may vary by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount by which A is varied does not materially affect the essential and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. All ranges also include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges therebetween, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An adjustable roller for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising: a cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation passing between the first end and the second end; a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller; wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and wherein at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the shaft, ensuring the possibility of shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

2. The roller according to claim 1, in which the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is designed with the possibility of displacement from the longitudinal axis of rotation by an amount of up to 1 mm or up to 0.5 mm, or up to 0.1 mm, or even up to 0.05 mm.

3. A roller according to claim 1 or 2, in which at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is installed inside the corresponding end of the roller with a given gap size in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is designed with the possibility of adjustable fixation relative to the corresponding end of the roller by means of a plurality of adjustable fixing parts.

4. The roller of claim 3, wherein the plurality of adjustable locking members comprises a plurality of set screws, wherein the cylindrical outer portion is provided with a plurality of radially oriented, circumferentially spaced threaded holes at the first end or the second end or both at the first end and at the second end, wherein the plurality of set screws are configured to be adjustablely rotated within the threaded holes to hold the corresponding first sleeve or the second sleeve in place relative to the corresponding first end or the second end at selectable different offsets of the axis of the sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation.

5. The roller of claim 1, wherein the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is offset or inclined, or both offset and inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is configured to be rotationally adjustable relative to the cylindrical outer portion, allowing the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve to move along an orbital trajectory around the longitudinal axis during adjustment.

6. The roller according to claim 5, in which the displacement or tilt or the displacement and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation is provided due to eccentricity in the corresponding flange portion.

7. The roller according to claim 5, in which the displacement or tilt or the displacement and tilt of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation is provided due to eccentricity in the sleeve.

8. A roller according to any one of paragraphs 5-7, in which the displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation is no more than 1 mm, or no more than 0.5 mm, or no more than 0.1 mm, or even no more than 0.05 mm.

9. A roller assembly for a corrugating device for sheet material, comprising a first adjustable roller according to any of the preceding claims in combination with a second roller comprising a cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation passing between the first and second ends, wherein the longitudinal axis of the second roller is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first roller, and the first and second rollers are configured to move relative to each other to bring their cylindrical outer surfaces into immediate proximity to each other along a tangent plane between the cylindrical outer surfaces.

10. The unit according to claim 9, in which precise regulation of the position of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the cylindrical outer part of the first roller relative to the position of the longitudinal axis of rotation of the cylindrical outer part of the second roller is achieved by shifting the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the cylindrical outer part of the first roller.

11. A method for adjusting the position of the longitudinal axis of a roller for a corrugating device for sheet material, wherein the roller comprises: a cylindrical outer portion having a first end and a second end with a longitudinal axis of rotation passing between the first end and the second end; a first sleeve installed inside the first end of the roller, and a second sleeve installed inside the second end of the roller; wherein each of the first sleeve and the second sleeve has a corresponding cylindrical hole with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation; and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted with the possibility of adjustment inside the corresponding end of the shaft, ensuring the possibility of displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation; wherein the method includes adjusting the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the cylindrical outer part with displacement of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis.

12. The method according to claim 11, in which the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is displaced relative to the longitudinal axis of rotation by an amount of up to 1 mm, or up to 0.5 mm, or up to 0.1 mm, or even up to 0.05 mm.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, in which at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is mounted inside the corresponding end of the roller with a given gap value in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is designed with the possibility of adjustable fixation relative to the corresponding end of the roller by means of a plurality of adjustable fixing parts; and at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve is adjustablely displaced relative to the cylindrical outer part by adjusting the adjustable fixing parts.

14. The method according to any one of paragraphs 11-13, in which, before adjusting the displacement of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve, the roller is adjustablely mounted in the frame of the corrugating machine parallel to the second roller, and wherein the roller is adjusted inside the frame to a first specified tolerance with the cylindrical part of the roller aligned with the corresponding cylindrical part of the second roller along a tangent plane, and wherein the outer circumferential surfaces of the roller and the second roller are located in close proximity.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the roller is adjusted to a second predetermined tolerance that is less than the first predetermined tolerance by adjusting the offset of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the cylindrical outer portion with an offset of the axis of at least one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve relative to the longitudinal axis.

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