Cannabis Product-Manufacturing Machine

Abstract

An adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine includes a first station configured to receive and transform a cannabis product from a first to a second state. One or more sensors measure a cannabis quantity-related characteristic (CQRC), such as cannabis level, mass, humidity, or flow behavior. A downstream cannabis-product transforming station includes an automatically adjustable adaptive mechanism that modifies its operation based on the CQRC, allowing consistent cannabis filling, compaction, closing, and end-forming despite variations in cannabis properties. A corresponding method is also provided.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 726,358, filed on Nov. 29, 2024, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the manufacture of cannabis products and more specifically to machines and processes for producing cannabis joints.BACKGROUND

[0003] In conventional cannabis joint-manufacturing machines (not shown), most processing stations must be manually adjusted to compensate for variations in the characteristics of the bulk cannabis supplied to the machine or arising from operating conditions. For example, higher humidity during operation may result in denser cannabis that requires either a smaller quantity to fill a given cone or a higher compaction force to achieve the same final fill height.

[0004] Some conventional machines also include height-adjusting mechanisms, such as manual cranks, that allow an operator to modify the distance between the cone being processed and the operative components of a given station. However, manually adapting stations to compensate for variations in cannabis properties is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and sometimes imprecise.SUMMARY

[0005] According to an illustrative embodiment, there is provided cannabis product-manufacturing machine comprising:

[0006] a first cannabis product transforming station configured to receive at least part of a cannabis product in a first state, and to transform the at least part of the cannabis product from the first state to a second state;

[0007] at least one sensor for measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of the at least part of the cannabis product in the first or second state; and

[0008] at least one further cannabis product transforming station downstream from the first cannabis product transforming station; the at least one further cannabis product transforming station comprising a cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism that is automatically adapted in accordance with the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to further transform the at least part of a cannabis product.

[0009] According to another illustrative embodiment, there is provided a cannabis product-manufacturing process comprising:

[0010] measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of at least part of a cannabis product;

[0011] using the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to further adaptably transform the at least part of the cannabis product.

[0012] According to still another illustrative embodiment, there is provided a cannabis-product manufacturing system comprising:

[0013] a carousel supporting a plurality of holders configured to receive respective cannabis cones;

[0014] a plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations arranged around the carousel;

[0015] at least one sensor positioned to measure, during rotation of the carousel, a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of one of the cannabis cones; and

[0016] a controller configured to:

[0017] receive a signal indicative of the cannabis quantity-related characteristic;

[0018] determine, based on the signal, one or more operational parameters for at least one of the cannabis-product transforming stations; and

[0019] automatically actuate the at least one cannabis-product transforming station in accordance with the determined operational parameters.

[0020] According to still another illustrative embodiment, there is provided a cannabis-product manufacturing machine comprising:

[0021] a plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations arranged to sequentially process a cannabis product;

[0022] a plurality of sensors respectively associated with at least two of the stations, each of the plurality of sensors being configured to measure a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of the cannabis product at a corresponding processing stage; and

[0023] an adaptive actuation system operatively connected to the at least two stations and configured to automatically modify at least one of an operational position, a movement and a force of each of the at least two stations as a function of the cannabis quantity-related characteristic measured by the corresponding sensor;

[0024] wherein adaptive modification at each of the plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations is performed independently of the others based on the local measurement performed at that stage.

[0025] It is to be noted that the term ‘station’ is to be construed herein broadly as including any system, apparatus, machine and / or device that performs a specific task among a series of tasks needed to achieve a result.

[0026] Also, the expression cannabis product is to be construed herein as including any form of product including cannabis in herb or similar form, whether delivered in a container or on any type of support.

[0027] The expression cannabis support is to be construed herein as including the intrant to the manufacturing system described and to all its transformed states through the various manufacturing steps until the final output product.

[0028] The term ‘step’ should be construed broadly herein as including one or more actions directed toward achieving a particular result.

[0029] Other objects, advantages, and features of the adaptive manufacturing system and process will become more apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, given by way of example and only with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] In the appended drawings:

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine according to a first illustrative embodiment;

[0032] FIGS. 2A and 2B are close-up top perspective views of the machine of FIG. 1, showing in more details the cannabis filling system thereof and illustrating first and second sensors for detecting the presence of cannabis;

[0033] FIG. 3 is a close-up side perspective view of the cannabis compactor which form part of the machine of FIG. 1;

[0034] FIG. 4 is a close-up bottom perspective view of a cannabis joint closing system, which is part of an adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine according to a second illustrative embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 5 is a close-up bottom perspective view of a cannabis joint end forming system, also forming part of the adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine according to the second illustrative embodiment;

[0036] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a cannabis product-manufacturing process according to an illustrative embodiment; and

[0037] FIGS. 7 and 8 are front elevation views of cannabis cones filled with cannabis at different heights and provided with filters of different lengths.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals, and in order not to weigh down the figures, some elements are not referred to in some figures if they were already identified in a precedent figure. Herein, it shall further be noted that, for avoiding unnecessary details obscuring the invention, only device structures and / or processing steps closely relevant to schemes according to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings while omitting other details less relevant to the invention.

[0039] The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one”, but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more”, “at least one”, and “one or more than one”. Similarly, the word “another” may mean at least a second or more.

[0040] As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “include” and “includes”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contain” and “contains”), are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional un-recited elements.

[0041] An adaptive machine 10 for manufacturing cannabis joints according to an illustrative embodiment will now be described with reference first to FIG. 1.

[0042] The machine 10 comprises a supporting structure in the form of a table 12, a motorized carousel 14 rotatably mounted to the table 12 that receives a plurality of cannabis cone holders 16, and a plurality of cannabis joints manufacturing stations 18-30 mounted to the table 12, each for performing, on one cannabis cone 32 at a time, a step among a sequence of steps for manufacturing cannabis joints (not shown).

[0043] The table 12 comprises a generally rectangular top surface 34, supported by a frame (not shown), removable side panels 36 and 38 secured to the frame and forming with the top surface 34 a box-like enclosure. The frame is mounted on wheels 40 (only two (2) shown), allowing the machine 10 to be moved easlily.

[0044] According to the one illustrative embodiment, the machine 10 further comprises a transparent casing (not shown), mounted to the table 12, which defines an enclosure therewith. In another embodiment, such casing may be omitted.

[0045] The carousel 14 is rotatably secured driven relative to the table 12 by an electric motor (not shown) or another suitable actuator. As such carousels are believed to be well known in the art, it will not be described herein in more detail for convenience purposes.

[0046] The paper cone holders 16 are elongated bodies having internal frusto-conical bores (not shown) hat is configured and sized to receive respective paper cones 32 in a snug-fit manner. This configuration helps prevent deformation or breakage of the cones during processing.

[0047] In another illustrative embodiment (not shown), the cannabis cone holders 16 may take another form suitable for supporting the cones 32 during their transformation, as described in further detail below.

[0048] As described below, the carousel 14 enables the sequential and consecutive filling of a plurality of cones 32.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the carousel 14 carries ten (10) holders 16, allowing up to ten (10) cones 32 to be processed concurrently, one at each station 20-30. However, in this embodiment, the machine 10 processes eight (8) cones at a time, with one station dedicated to cleaning the holders 16 and the another to remove unfilled cones 32 (both not shown).

[0050] The components of stations 18-36 are mounted to the table 12 via a mounting frame 39 suspended above the carousel 14 via posts 41 (four according to the first illustrative embodiment). A partly suspended arm 42 acts as a guide for cables and conduits (not shown).

[0051] The machine 10 comprises the following stations arranged in a circle around the carousel 14:

[0052] a paper cone distributor 18, supplying paper cones 32 to the cone holders 16;

[0053] a cone positioner (not shown);

[0054] a cannabis filling system 20;

[0055] a cannabis compactor 22;

[0056] a cannabis joint closing system 24;

[0057] a cannabis joint end forming system 26, for trimming or flattening the top of the product;

[0058] a cannabis oil injection system (not shown);

[0059] a finished-product output system 30;

[0060] a damaged cone ejector (not shown); and

[0061] a cone holder cleaning system (not shown).

[0062] It is to be noted that the terms “cone” and “joint” are used herein to describe the same product at different stages of manufacture. The term “cone” is used until the paper cone has been closed; thereafter, the product is referred to as a “joint”. However, this terminology is not intended to be limiting.

[0063] With reference to FIG. 6, an illustrative embodiment of a cannabis product-manufacturing process 200 comprises:

[0064] measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic (CQRC) of at least part of a cannabis product during its manufacture thereof (step 202); and

[0065] using the measured CQRC to adaptively transform the at least part of the cannabis product, including automatically adjusting one or more components of a cannabis product processing station based on the quantity-related characteristic (step 204).

[0066] Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 2 and 3, certain parts of the machine 10 that implement the process 200, will be described in further detail.

[0067] FIG. 2A shows components of the cannabis filling system 20, which includes a paper cone filling apparatus 44 for receiving and pre-compacting a single portion of cannabis into the cone 32 that is aligned with a holder 16, and a cannabis feeding system 46 for delivering the predetermined portion of cannabis to filling apparatus 44

[0068] Returning briefly to FIG. 1, the cannabis feeding system 46 comprises:

[0069] i) an electronic weighing scale 48;

[0070] ii) a cannabis feeding apparatus 50 adjacent the weighing scale 48 for receiving cannabis in bulk (not shown) and controllably dispensing it onto the weighing scale 48; and

[0071] iii) a single portion cannabis distributing device 52 comprising two cups 54 that move sequentially between a weighing position, where one of the cups 54 cooperates with the scale 48 to weigh the predetermined portion, and a distributing position, where the predetermined portion is delivered to the filling apparatus 44.

[0072] With reference to FIGS. 2A and 3, the filling apparatus 44 comprises:

[0073] i) a funnel 56 mounted adjacent the distributing device 52 and aligned with a corresponding holder 16 to receive the single dose of cannabis;

[0074] ii) a pusher mechanism 58 configured to bring the cone holder 16 into abutment with the funnel 56 so that the two are in fluid communication; and

[0075] iii) a reciprocating needle mechanism 60 that comprising a needle 62 within the cone holder 16 to pre-compact the cannabis as it filles the cone 32.

[0076] The cannabis filling system 20 further includes a chute 64, having a groove 66 that defines a channel guiding cannabis from the cup 54 to the funnel 56. A laser sensor 68 is directed at the groove 66 to detect when the cup 54 has been emptied. When the sensor 68 detects that no material remains, the reciprocating needle mechanism 60 stops, allowing the filled and pre-compacted cannabis cone 32 to be lowered by the pusher mechanism 58 back into its holder 16 and then advanced by the carousel 14 to the next station 22. The reciprocating needle begins operation when a cup 54 containing cannabis arrives at station 20.

[0077] Furthermore, the chute 64 may include a vibrating motor that stops the sensor 68 detects that all cannabis has been dispensed from the cup 54. The vibrating motor may also have its vibration intensity adjusted based on cannabis characteristics measured by the sensor 68.

[0078] The filling system 20 is not limited to this embodiment; other types of cone filling apparatuses and cannabis-feeding mechanisms may be used.

[0079] Since laser sensors are well known in the art, they are not described herein in further detail here.

[0080] The carousel 14 is then rotated one step so that the filled and pre-compacted cannabis cone 32 is registered with the cannabis compactor 22, wherein it is compacted.

[0081] According to another illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the laser sensor 68 is supplemented or replaced by a well-known fiber optic sensor 70, which is aimed at the lower end 72 of the groove 66 to detect the start of appearance of cannabis (not shown) at the position, Such a detection can be used by the cannabis filling system 20 to trigger the reciprocation of the needle 60 at this moment.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 3, the machine 10 further comprises a second laser sensor 68′, positioned between the cannabis filling system 20 and the compaction system 22. The sensor 68′ is directed towards the carousel 14 (dashed line 74) and specifically aimed at the passing of the cannabis holders 16 in order to measure the cannabis level 75 within the cones 32, as they are successively transferred between stations 20 and 22 (arrow 76).

[0083] Knowing the cannabis level 75 in a cone 32 immediately after the filling and pre-compaction at station 20, allows to automatically adjust the compaction required at station 22.

[0084] For example, if the intended specification for the final product (not shown) is a cannabis height of 55 mm, and the sensor 68′ detects a height of 57 mm, possibly due to a higher humidity or a larger-than-usual grind size, the compaction system 22 can automatically increase the compaction force or penetration depth to correct for this difference.

[0085] More specifically, detection of the cannabis level 75 begins when the carousel 14 reaches a predetermined rotational position. Considering the known rotational speed, the sensor 68′ typically takes several readings (usually three or four readings). Any reading corresponding to the upper rim 78 of the cone 32 (see FIG. 7), is discarded as an outlier, while the remaining readings are averaged to determine the cannabis level 75.

[0086] Other measurement approaches may be used. For example, the second sensing device 68′ may be a different type of sensor, it may a different number of readings or one selected reading may be used instead of an average. Alternatively, the carousel 14 may be briefly stopped to take a precise measurement.

[0087] Adjustment of the position or height of the various station mechanisms is achieved, for example, by mounting the relevant components linear actuators or other similar devices connected to a controller 77. This controller 77 receives the cannabis quantity-related characteristics (CQRC) measurements from the sensors and adjusts the configuration or movement of the transforming stations accordingly.

[0088] With reference to FIG. 3, the cannabis compactor 22 comprises a compacting needle 80, in the form of a slender rod operatively mounted to a linear actuator 82 for reciprocal movement into and out of a cannabis cone 32 presented thereunder by a cone gripper 83.

[0089] A generally U-shaped mounting bracket 84, which is secured to the table 12 via the suspended frame 39, is provided to support the linear actuator 82 on its upper portion 85, and the cone gripper 83 under its lower portion 86. The cone gripper 83 is positioned relative to the compacting needle 80 and operable to grab a cannabis cone 32 in the holder 16, which has been raised the cannabis cone holder 16, and to hold it during its compaction by the needle 80.

[0090] The compactor 22 further comprises an inverted funnel (not shown) mounted to the bracket 84 thereunder and positioned coaxially to the axis defined by the needle 80 at a distance from the cone holder 16, ii) a cone-rising mechanism (not shown) mounted under the table and cooperating with the holder 16 for moving the cannabis cone 32 through the inverted funnel up to position to be grabbed by the gripper 83, and a needle guide 89 mounted to the bracket 83, coaxial the needle 80.

[0091] The compactor 22 is not limited to this illustrative embodiment and another system or device allowing to cooperate with the cannabis cone to compact its content can be provided.

[0092] The cannabis compactor 22 is controlled by the controller 77, which receives the signal from sensor 68′ indicating the measured cannabis level 75 in each cone 32 arriving at the compactor 22. Using this information, the controller 77 operates the actuator 82 to adjust the position of the compacting needle 80 relative to the cone 32—held in place by gripper 83—so that the resulting compaction produces a cannabis joint that satisfies predetermined specifications.

[0093] These specifications may include:

[0094] a) achieving a predetermined final cannabis height 75 in the cone 32 after compaction; or

[0095] b) achieving a predetermined amount of compaction, regardless of the cannabis height prior to compaction.

[0096] The controller 77 may be configured—using a control screen, another input device, or a remote controller—to operate the machine 10 in accordance with either of the above-mentioned specifications.

[0097] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate two example cones 32 and 32′ according to these two types of specifications, each shown after compaction but before end-forming. In the first cone 32, the cannabis fills the cone up to a higher level 75 within the paper cone 94. In the second cone 32′, the cannabis 75′ is more densely compacted. Both cones include respective filters 96 and 96′, with the filter 96′ of the second cone 32′ being longer than the filter 96 of the first cone 32.

[0098] The adaptability of the compactor 22 allows the system to achieve either height-based or density-based specifications—even when the same initial amount of cannabis is dispensed into the cones and considering a user-inputted filter length.

[0099] In operation of the compactor, the controller 77 may use the pre-compaction cannabis level measured by sensor 68′ to determine the target movement of the compacting needle 80, depending on which mode is selected. When operating in constant-compaction mode, the sensor 68′ is used to ensure that the amount of compaction (i.e., the reduction in height) remains constant from one cone to the next. For example, if a cone exiting station 20 has a pre-compaction height of 75 mm and the desired compaction is 5 mm, the compactor 22 will produce a final height of 70 mm. If the next cone has a pre-compaction height of 77 mm, the compactor will still apply a 5-mm compaction, resulting in a final height of 72 mm. This mode guarantees constant compaction regardless of the initial cannabis height.

[0100] When operating in constant-length mode, the objective is instead to obtain a predetermined final product length. For example, if the target is 70 mm, then a cone entering station 22 at 75 mm will be compacted down to 70 mm, and a cone entering at 77 mm will also be compacted down to 70 mm. In this mode, the cannabis-level sensor 68′ is not required for control purposes. This mode guarantees a constant total length, regardless of the initial cannabis height.

[0101] The compactor 22 is further configured to adapt to variations in cone and filter lengths. To this end, the compactor 22 comprises a compacting-position adjusting mechanism 87 that includes a sliding assembly 88 forming the central portion of the U-shaped bracket 84, and a length adjuster 90 that enables adjustment of the distance between the gripper 83 and cone holder 16. The length adjuster 90 includes a manual crank 91 allowing an operator to modify the length of the central portion 88.

[0102] The length adjuster 90 may also include an electronic actuator 92 configured to automatically achieve the same adjustment. Such an electronic actuator 92 includes an electric motor (not shown) operatively coupled to the sliding assembly 87 to modify its length in response to user inputs. A screen 93 is provided to allow the user to visualize the adjustment value.

[0103] The compacting-position adjusting mechanism 87 may therefore be used to adjust the length of the central portion 88 of the bracket 84 in order to adapt the compactor 22 for cones or filters of different lengths.

[0104] The electronic actuator 92 may be configured via an on-screen user interface to receive input data defining the specifications of the cannabis cone 94, including the length of its filter 96.

[0105] According to another illustrative embodiment, the electronic actuator 92 may be configured to receive an adjustment value from the controller 77 that is derived from user-provided input indicative of a particular cannabis cone configuration.

[0106] Other stations of the machine may likewise be equipped with a similar adjusting mechanism (not shown).

[0107] Also, mechanisms in further stations, such as in the cannabis joint closer 24 or cannabis joint end former 26, are also adapted for the cannabis height measured between stations 20 and 22.

[0108] With reference to FIG. 4, the cannabis closing system 24 includes a rotary actuator 100 and a first small gripper 106 mounted to the rotary actuator 100.

[0109] The first gripper 102 comprises a pair of jaw plates 104 movable between open and closed positions. When in the closed position (not shown), the jaw plates 104 securely hold the upper portion of a cannabis cone 32 or 32′.

[0110] A second gripper 106 includes a pair of jaws 107 movable between open and closed positions by a linear actuator 108, the linear actuator 108 being mounted to a second rod-style actuator 112 that is likewise mounted to the table 12.

[0111] The second gripper 106 may be moved up and down by the actuator 112 to pick up a cannabis cone 32 from its cone holder 16 and present it to the first gripper 102. The position of the second gripper 106, and therefore of the cone 32 therein, is adjusted by the actuator 112, according to the operating mode selected by the user, as described hereinabove.

[0112] Once the cone 32 is positioned between the jaws of the first gripper 102, the first gripper 102 is actuated to:

[0113] a) grip the upper portion of the cone 32 (the portion free of cannabis 75) while the cone 32 remains supported by the second gripper 106; and

[0114] b) rotate (typically several turns) to close the top portion of the cone 32.

[0115] Similarly, in the end-forming station 26, the distance between i) the closed cannabis cone 32 supported by a movable gripper and ii) the tip cutter 114 is automatically adapted based on previously measured cannabis configuration parameters. The gripper 116 is mounted to a rod-style actuator similar to actuator 112, allowing its position relative to the table 12 to be adjusted in accordance with the measured cannabis level.

[0116] More generally, the position of the tip cutter 114 and / or the position of the closed cannabis cone 32 may be lowered or raised automatically based on the measured cannabis level and according to the selected mode, as per above.

[0117] In another illustrative embodiment, a single cannabis-joint handling gripper (not shown) may be used to perform the transfers required for both stations 24 and 26.

[0118] In still another embodiment, mechanisms other cannabis joint movers than the illustrated grippers 110 and 112 can be used to move the cannabis cones 32 from the holders 16 to a respective processing station.

[0119] Also, devices than rod-style actuators 112 may be used to adjust the relative position of the transforming devices and cannabis joint handling grippers, or to position the carousel 14 itself.

[0120] It is to be noted that the actuators of the machine 10 are connected to one or more controllers 77, which synchronize their motions and operations. For readability, the various electrical or control connections between the actuators and the controllers have been omitted from the figures.

[0121] Many modifications may be made to the system 10 described herein and illustrated in the drawings. For example:

[0122] the number, location and type of sensors used to measure cannabis quantity-related characteristics (CQRC) may differ from those illustrated; for example, humidity sensors may additionally or alternatively be used;

[0123] the machine 10 is not limited to any specific configuration or functionality of the manufacturing stations;

[0124] the machine 10 may be adapted to manufacture cannabis products other than cannabis joints;

[0125] the machine is not limited to cannabis leaf material and may be adapted to process mixtures of cannabis with other materials, such as cannabis derived substances or tobacco.

[0126] Although an adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine has been described hereinabove through illustrative embodiments, numerous modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the claims should be interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with the specification as a whole.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0038]In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals, and in order not to weigh down the figures, some elements are not referred to in some figures if they were already identified in a precedent figure. Herein, it shall further be noted that, for avoiding unnecessary details obscuring the invention, only device structures and / or processing steps closely relevant to schemes according to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings while omitting other details less relevant to the invention.

[0039]The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one”, but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more”, “at least one”, and “one or more than one”. Similarly, the word “another” may mean at least a second or more.

[0040]As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” ...

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 726,358, filed on Nov. 29, 2024, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the manufacture of cannabis products and more specifically to machines and processes for producing cannabis joints.BACKGROUND

[0003] In conventional cannabis joint-manufacturing machines (not shown), most processing stations must be manually adjusted to compensate for variations in the characteristics of the bulk cannabis supplied to the machine or arising from operating conditions. For example, higher humidity during operation may result in denser cannabis that requires either a smaller quantity to fill a given cone or a higher compaction force to achieve the same final fill height.

[0004] Some conventional machines also include height-adjusting mechanisms, such as manual cranks, that allow an operator to modify the distance between the cone being processed and the operative components of a given station. However, manually adapting stations to compensate for variations in cannabis properties is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and sometimes imprecise.SUMMARY

[0005] According to an illustrative embodiment, there is provided cannabis product-manufacturing machine comprising:

[0006] a first cannabis product transforming station configured to receive at least part of a cannabis product in a first state, and to transform the at least part of the cannabis product from the first state to a second state;

[0007] at least one sensor for measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of the at least part of the cannabis product in the first or second state; and

[0008] at least one further cannabis product transforming station downstream from the first cannabis product transforming station; the at least one further cannabis product transforming station comprising a cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism that is automatically adapted in accordance with the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to further transform the at least part of a cannabis product.

[0009] According to another illustrative embodiment, there is provided a cannabis product-manufacturing process comprising:

[0010] measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of at least part of a cannabis product;

[0011] using the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to further adaptably transform the at least part of the cannabis product.

[0012] According to still another illustrative embodiment, there is provided a cannabis-product manufacturing system comprising:

[0013] a carousel supporting a plurality of holders configured to receive respective cannabis cones;

[0014] a plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations arranged around the carousel;

[0015] at least one sensor positioned to measure, during rotation of the carousel, a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of one of the cannabis cones; and

[0016] a controller configured to:

[0017] receive a signal indicative of the cannabis quantity-related characteristic;

[0018] determine, based on the signal, one or more operational parameters for at least one of the cannabis-product transforming stations; and

[0019] automatically actuate the at least one cannabis-product transforming station in accordance with the determined operational parameters.

[0020] According to still another illustrative embodiment, there is provided a cannabis-product manufacturing machine comprising:

[0021] a plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations arranged to sequentially process a cannabis product;

[0022] a plurality of sensors respectively associated with at least two of the stations, each of the plurality of sensors being configured to measure a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of the cannabis product at a corresponding processing stage; and

[0023] an adaptive actuation system operatively connected to the at least two stations and configured to automatically modify at least one of an operational position, a movement and a force of each of the at least two stations as a function of the cannabis quantity-related characteristic measured by the corresponding sensor;

[0024] wherein adaptive modification at each of the plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations is performed independently of the others based on the local measurement performed at that stage.

[0025] It is to be noted that the term ‘station’ is to be construed herein broadly as including any system, apparatus, machine and / or device that performs a specific task among a series of tasks needed to achieve a result.

[0026] Also, the expression cannabis product is to be construed herein as including any form of product including cannabis in herb or similar form, whether delivered in a container or on any type of support.

[0027] The expression cannabis support is to be construed herein as including the intrant to the manufacturing system described and to all its transformed states through the various manufacturing steps until the final output product.

[0028] The term ‘step’ should be construed broadly herein as including one or more actions directed toward achieving a particular result.

[0029] Other objects, advantages, and features of the adaptive manufacturing system and process will become more apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, given by way of example and only with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] In the appended drawings:

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine according to a first illustrative embodiment;

[0032] FIGS. 2A and 2B are close-up top perspective views of the machine of FIG. 1, showing in more details the cannabis filling system thereof and illustrating first and second sensors for detecting the presence of cannabis;

[0033] FIG. 3 is a close-up side perspective view of the cannabis compactor which form part of the machine of FIG. 1;

[0034] FIG. 4 is a close-up bottom perspective view of a cannabis joint closing system, which is part of an adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine according to a second illustrative embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 5 is a close-up bottom perspective view of a cannabis joint end forming system, also forming part of the adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine according to the second illustrative embodiment;

[0036] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a cannabis product-manufacturing process according to an illustrative embodiment; and

[0037] FIGS. 7 and 8 are front elevation views of cannabis cones filled with cannabis at different heights and provided with filters of different lengths.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals, and in order not to weigh down the figures, some elements are not referred to in some figures if they were already identified in a precedent figure. Herein, it shall further be noted that, for avoiding unnecessary details obscuring the invention, only device structures and / or processing steps closely relevant to schemes according to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings while omitting other details less relevant to the invention.

[0039] The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one”, but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more”, “at least one”, and “one or more than one”. Similarly, the word “another” may mean at least a second or more.

[0040] As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “include” and “includes”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as “contain” and “contains”), are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional un-recited elements.

[0041] An adaptive machine 10 for manufacturing cannabis joints according to an illustrative embodiment will now be described with reference first to FIG. 1.

[0042] The machine 10 comprises a supporting structure in the form of a table 12, a motorized carousel 14 rotatably mounted to the table 12 that receives a plurality of cannabis cone holders 16, and a plurality of cannabis joints manufacturing stations 18-30 mounted to the table 12, each for performing, on one cannabis cone 32 at a time, a step among a sequence of steps for manufacturing cannabis joints (not shown).

[0043] The table 12 comprises a generally rectangular top surface 34, supported by a frame (not shown), removable side panels 36 and 38 secured to the frame and forming with the top surface 34 a box-like enclosure. The frame is mounted on wheels 40 (only two (2) shown), allowing the machine 10 to be moved easlily.

[0044] According to the one illustrative embodiment, the machine 10 further comprises a transparent casing (not shown), mounted to the table 12, which defines an enclosure therewith. In another embodiment, such casing may be omitted.

[0045] The carousel 14 is rotatably secured driven relative to the table 12 by an electric motor (not shown) or another suitable actuator. As such carousels are believed to be well known in the art, it will not be described herein in more detail for convenience purposes.

[0046] The paper cone holders 16 are elongated bodies having internal frusto-conical bores (not shown) hat is configured and sized to receive respective paper cones 32 in a snug-fit manner. This configuration helps prevent deformation or breakage of the cones during processing.

[0047] In another illustrative embodiment (not shown), the cannabis cone holders 16 may take another form suitable for supporting the cones 32 during their transformation, as described in further detail below.

[0048] As described below, the carousel 14 enables the sequential and consecutive filling of a plurality of cones 32.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the carousel 14 carries ten (10) holders 16, allowing up to ten (10) cones 32 to be processed concurrently, one at each station 20-30. However, in this embodiment, the machine 10 processes eight (8) cones at a time, with one station dedicated to cleaning the holders 16 and the another to remove unfilled cones 32 (both not shown).

[0050] The components of stations 18-36 are mounted to the table 12 via a mounting frame 39 suspended above the carousel 14 via posts 41 (four according to the first illustrative embodiment). A partly suspended arm 42 acts as a guide for cables and conduits (not shown).

[0051] The machine 10 comprises the following stations arranged in a circle around the carousel 14:

[0052] a paper cone distributor 18, supplying paper cones 32 to the cone holders 16;

[0053] a cone positioner (not shown);

[0054] a cannabis filling system 20;

[0055] a cannabis compactor 22;

[0056] a cannabis joint closing system 24;

[0057] a cannabis joint end forming system 26, for trimming or flattening the top of the product;

[0058] a cannabis oil injection system (not shown);

[0059] a finished-product output system 30;

[0060] a damaged cone ejector (not shown); and

[0061] a cone holder cleaning system (not shown).

[0062] It is to be noted that the terms “cone” and “joint” are used herein to describe the same product at different stages of manufacture. The term “cone” is used until the paper cone has been closed; thereafter, the product is referred to as a “joint”. However, this terminology is not intended to be limiting.

[0063] With reference to FIG. 6, an illustrative embodiment of a cannabis product-manufacturing process 200 comprises:

[0064] measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic (CQRC) of at least part of a cannabis product during its manufacture thereof (step 202); and

[0065] using the measured CQRC to adaptively transform the at least part of the cannabis product, including automatically adjusting one or more components of a cannabis product processing station based on the quantity-related characteristic (step 204).

[0066] Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 2 and 3, certain parts of the machine 10 that implement the process 200, will be described in further detail.

[0067] FIG. 2A shows components of the cannabis filling system 20, which includes a paper cone filling apparatus 44 for receiving and pre-compacting a single portion of cannabis into the cone 32 that is aligned with a holder 16, and a cannabis feeding system 46 for delivering the predetermined portion of cannabis to filling apparatus 44

[0068] Returning briefly to FIG. 1, the cannabis feeding system 46 comprises:

[0069] i) an electronic weighing scale 48;

[0070] ii) a cannabis feeding apparatus 50 adjacent the weighing scale 48 for receiving cannabis in bulk (not shown) and controllably dispensing it onto the weighing scale 48; and

[0071] iii) a single portion cannabis distributing device 52 comprising two cups 54 that move sequentially between a weighing position, where one of the cups 54 cooperates with the scale 48 to weigh the predetermined portion, and a distributing position, where the predetermined portion is delivered to the filling apparatus 44.

[0072] With reference to FIGS. 2A and 3, the filling apparatus 44 comprises:

[0073] i) a funnel 56 mounted adjacent the distributing device 52 and aligned with a corresponding holder 16 to receive the single dose of cannabis;

[0074] ii) a pusher mechanism 58 configured to bring the cone holder 16 into abutment with the funnel 56 so that the two are in fluid communication; and

[0075] iii) a reciprocating needle mechanism 60 that comprising a needle 62 within the cone holder 16 to pre-compact the cannabis as it filles the cone 32.

[0076] The cannabis filling system 20 further includes a chute 64, having a groove 66 that defines a channel guiding cannabis from the cup 54 to the funnel 56. A laser sensor 68 is directed at the groove 66 to detect when the cup 54 has been emptied. When the sensor 68 detects that no material remains, the reciprocating needle mechanism 60 stops, allowing the filled and pre-compacted cannabis cone 32 to be lowered by the pusher mechanism 58 back into its holder 16 and then advanced by the carousel 14 to the next station 22. The reciprocating needle begins operation when a cup 54 containing cannabis arrives at station 20.

[0077] Furthermore, the chute 64 may include a vibrating motor that stops the sensor 68 detects that all cannabis has been dispensed from the cup 54. The vibrating motor may also have its vibration intensity adjusted based on cannabis characteristics measured by the sensor 68.

[0078] The filling system 20 is not limited to this embodiment; other types of cone filling apparatuses and cannabis-feeding mechanisms may be used.

[0079] Since laser sensors are well known in the art, they are not described herein in further detail here.

[0080] The carousel 14 is then rotated one step so that the filled and pre-compacted cannabis cone 32 is registered with the cannabis compactor 22, wherein it is compacted.

[0081] According to another illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the laser sensor 68 is supplemented or replaced by a well-known fiber optic sensor 70, which is aimed at the lower end 72 of the groove 66 to detect the start of appearance of cannabis (not shown) at the position, Such a detection can be used by the cannabis filling system 20 to trigger the reciprocation of the needle 60 at this moment.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 3, the machine 10 further comprises a second laser sensor 68′, positioned between the cannabis filling system 20 and the compaction system 22. The sensor 68′ is directed towards the carousel 14 (dashed line 74) and specifically aimed at the passing of the cannabis holders 16 in order to measure the cannabis level 75 within the cones 32, as they are successively transferred between stations 20 and 22 (arrow 76).

[0083] Knowing the cannabis level 75 in a cone 32 immediately after the filling and pre-compaction at station 20, allows to automatically adjust the compaction required at station 22.

[0084] For example, if the intended specification for the final product (not shown) is a cannabis height of 55 mm, and the sensor 68′ detects a height of 57 mm, possibly due to a higher humidity or a larger-than-usual grind size, the compaction system 22 can automatically increase the compaction force or penetration depth to correct for this difference.

[0085] More specifically, detection of the cannabis level 75 begins when the carousel 14 reaches a predetermined rotational position. Considering the known rotational speed, the sensor 68′ typically takes several readings (usually three or four readings). Any reading corresponding to the upper rim 78 of the cone 32 (see FIG. 7), is discarded as an outlier, while the remaining readings are averaged to determine the cannabis level 75.

[0086] Other measurement approaches may be used. For example, the second sensing device 68′ may be a different type of sensor, it may a different number of readings or one selected reading may be used instead of an average. Alternatively, the carousel 14 may be briefly stopped to take a precise measurement.

[0087] Adjustment of the position or height of the various station mechanisms is achieved, for example, by mounting the relevant components linear actuators or other similar devices connected to a controller 77. This controller 77 receives the cannabis quantity-related characteristics (CQRC) measurements from the sensors and adjusts the configuration or movement of the transforming stations accordingly.

[0088] With reference to FIG. 3, the cannabis compactor 22 comprises a compacting needle 80, in the form of a slender rod operatively mounted to a linear actuator 82 for reciprocal movement into and out of a cannabis cone 32 presented thereunder by a cone gripper 83.

[0089] A generally U-shaped mounting bracket 84, which is secured to the table 12 via the suspended frame 39, is provided to support the linear actuator 82 on its upper portion 85, and the cone gripper 83 under its lower portion 86. The cone gripper 83 is positioned relative to the compacting needle 80 and operable to grab a cannabis cone 32 in the holder 16, which has been raised the cannabis cone holder 16, and to hold it during its compaction by the needle 80.

[0090] The compactor 22 further comprises an inverted funnel (not shown) mounted to the bracket 84 thereunder and positioned coaxially to the axis defined by the needle 80 at a distance from the cone holder 16, ii) a cone-rising mechanism (not shown) mounted under the table and cooperating with the holder 16 for moving the cannabis cone 32 through the inverted funnel up to position to be grabbed by the gripper 83, and a needle guide 89 mounted to the bracket 83, coaxial the needle 80.

[0091] The compactor 22 is not limited to this illustrative embodiment and another system or device allowing to cooperate with the cannabis cone to compact its content can be provided.

[0092] The cannabis compactor 22 is controlled by the controller 77, which receives the signal from sensor 68′ indicating the measured cannabis level 75 in each cone 32 arriving at the compactor 22. Using this information, the controller 77 operates the actuator 82 to adjust the position of the compacting needle 80 relative to the cone 32—held in place by gripper 83—so that the resulting compaction produces a cannabis joint that satisfies predetermined specifications.

[0093] These specifications may include:

[0094] a) achieving a predetermined final cannabis height 75 in the cone 32 after compaction; or

[0095] b) achieving a predetermined amount of compaction, regardless of the cannabis height prior to compaction.

[0096] The controller 77 may be configured—using a control screen, another input device, or a remote controller—to operate the machine 10 in accordance with either of the above-mentioned specifications.

[0097] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate two example cones 32 and 32′ according to these two types of specifications, each shown after compaction but before end-forming. In the first cone 32, the cannabis fills the cone up to a higher level 75 within the paper cone 94. In the second cone 32′, the cannabis 75′ is more densely compacted. Both cones include respective filters 96 and 96′, with the filter 96′ of the second cone 32′ being longer than the filter 96 of the first cone 32.

[0098] The adaptability of the compactor 22 allows the system to achieve either height-based or density-based specifications—even when the same initial amount of cannabis is dispensed into the cones and considering a user-inputted filter length.

[0099] In operation of the compactor, the controller 77 may use the pre-compaction cannabis level measured by sensor 68′ to determine the target movement of the compacting needle 80, depending on which mode is selected. When operating in constant-compaction mode, the sensor 68′ is used to ensure that the amount of compaction (i.e., the reduction in height) remains constant from one cone to the next. For example, if a cone exiting station 20 has a pre-compaction height of 75 mm and the desired compaction is 5 mm, the compactor 22 will produce a final height of 70 mm. If the next cone has a pre-compaction height of 77 mm, the compactor will still apply a 5-mm compaction, resulting in a final height of 72 mm. This mode guarantees constant compaction regardless of the initial cannabis height.

[0100] When operating in constant-length mode, the objective is instead to obtain a predetermined final product length. For example, if the target is 70 mm, then a cone entering station 22 at 75 mm will be compacted down to 70 mm, and a cone entering at 77 mm will also be compacted down to 70 mm. In this mode, the cannabis-level sensor 68′ is not required for control purposes. This mode guarantees a constant total length, regardless of the initial cannabis height.

[0101] The compactor 22 is further configured to adapt to variations in cone and filter lengths. To this end, the compactor 22 comprises a compacting-position adjusting mechanism 87 that includes a sliding assembly 88 forming the central portion of the U-shaped bracket 84, and a length adjuster 90 that enables adjustment of the distance between the gripper 83 and cone holder 16. The length adjuster 90 includes a manual crank 91 allowing an operator to modify the length of the central portion 88.

[0102] The length adjuster 90 may also include an electronic actuator 92 configured to automatically achieve the same adjustment. Such an electronic actuator 92 includes an electric motor (not shown) operatively coupled to the sliding assembly 87 to modify its length in response to user inputs. A screen 93 is provided to allow the user to visualize the adjustment value.

[0103] The compacting-position adjusting mechanism 87 may therefore be used to adjust the length of the central portion 88 of the bracket 84 in order to adapt the compactor 22 for cones or filters of different lengths.

[0104] The electronic actuator 92 may be configured via an on-screen user interface to receive input data defining the specifications of the cannabis cone 94, including the length of its filter 96.

[0105] According to another illustrative embodiment, the electronic actuator 92 may be configured to receive an adjustment value from the controller 77 that is derived from user-provided input indicative of a particular cannabis cone configuration.

[0106] Other stations of the machine may likewise be equipped with a similar adjusting mechanism (not shown).

[0107] Also, mechanisms in further stations, such as in the cannabis joint closer 24 or cannabis joint end former 26, are also adapted for the cannabis height measured between stations 20 and 22.

[0108] With reference to FIG. 4, the cannabis closing system 24 includes a rotary actuator 100 and a first small gripper 106 mounted to the rotary actuator 100.

[0109] The first gripper 102 comprises a pair of jaw plates 104 movable between open and closed positions. When in the closed position (not shown), the jaw plates 104 securely hold the upper portion of a cannabis cone 32 or 32′.

[0110] A second gripper 106 includes a pair of jaws 107 movable between open and closed positions by a linear actuator 108, the linear actuator 108 being mounted to a second rod-style actuator 112 that is likewise mounted to the table 12.

[0111] The second gripper 106 may be moved up and down by the actuator 112 to pick up a cannabis cone 32 from its cone holder 16 and present it to the first gripper 102. The position of the second gripper 106, and therefore of the cone 32 therein, is adjusted by the actuator 112, according to the operating mode selected by the user, as described hereinabove.

[0112] Once the cone 32 is positioned between the jaws of the first gripper 102, the first gripper 102 is actuated to:

[0113] a) grip the upper portion of the cone 32 (the portion free of cannabis 75) while the cone 32 remains supported by the second gripper 106; and

[0114] b) rotate (typically several turns) to close the top portion of the cone 32.

[0115] Similarly, in the end-forming station 26, the distance between i) the closed cannabis cone 32 supported by a movable gripper and ii) the tip cutter 114 is automatically adapted based on previously measured cannabis configuration parameters. The gripper 116 is mounted to a rod-style actuator similar to actuator 112, allowing its position relative to the table 12 to be adjusted in accordance with the measured cannabis level.

[0116] More generally, the position of the tip cutter 114 and / or the position of the closed cannabis cone 32 may be lowered or raised automatically based on the measured cannabis level and according to the selected mode, as per above.

[0117] In another illustrative embodiment, a single cannabis-joint handling gripper (not shown) may be used to perform the transfers required for both stations 24 and 26.

[0118] In still another embodiment, mechanisms other cannabis joint movers than the illustrated grippers 110 and 112 can be used to move the cannabis cones 32 from the holders 16 to a respective processing station.

[0119] Also, devices than rod-style actuators 112 may be used to adjust the relative position of the transforming devices and cannabis joint handling grippers, or to position the carousel 14 itself.

[0120] It is to be noted that the actuators of the machine 10 are connected to one or more controllers 77, which synchronize their motions and operations. For readability, the various electrical or control connections between the actuators and the controllers have been omitted from the figures.

[0121] Many modifications may be made to the system 10 described herein and illustrated in the drawings. For example:

[0122] the number, location and type of sensors used to measure cannabis quantity-related characteristics (CQRC) may differ from those illustrated; for example, humidity sensors may additionally or alternatively be used;

[0123] the machine 10 is not limited to any specific configuration or functionality of the manufacturing stations;

[0124] the machine 10 may be adapted to manufacture cannabis products other than cannabis joints;

[0125] the machine is not limited to cannabis leaf material and may be adapted to process mixtures of cannabis with other materials, such as cannabis derived substances or tobacco.

[0126] Although an adaptive cannabis product-manufacturing machine has been described hereinabove through illustrative embodiments, numerous modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the claims should be interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with the specification as a whole.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0038]In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals, and in order not to weigh down the figures, some elements are not referred to in some figures if they were already identified in a precedent figure. Herein, it shall further be noted that, for avoiding unnecessary details obscuring the invention, only device structures and / or processing steps closely relevant to schemes according to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings while omitting other details less relevant to the invention.

[0039]The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one”, but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more”, “at least one”, and “one or more than one”. Similarly, the word “another” may mean at least a second or more.

[0040]As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise” ...

Claims

1. A cannabis product-manufacturing machine comprising:a first cannabis product transforming station configured to receive at least part of a cannabis product in a first state and to transform the at least part of the cannabis product from the first state to a second state;at least one sensor for measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic (CQRC) of the at least part of the cannabis product in the first state or second state; andat least one further cannabis product transforming station downstream from the first cannabis product transforming station; the at least one further cannabis product transforming station comprising a cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism that is automatically adapted in accordance with the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to further transform the at least part of a cannabis product.

2. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a laser sensor or a fiber-optic sensor.

3. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the CQRC comprises a height or level of cannabis measured in a cone.

4. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the CQRC comprises humidity of cannabis.

5. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the first cannabis product transforming station comprises a cannabis filling station including a reciprocating needle configured for pre-compacting cannabis in a cone.

6. The machine as recited in claim 5, wherein the CQRC comprises onset-of-flow detection of cannabis; said pre-compacting cannabis in a cone starting based on the onset-of-flow detection.

7. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one further cannabis product transforming station comprises a cannabis compactor including a compacting needle for receiving a cone of cannabis and for compacting the cannabis in the cone.

8. The machine as recited in claim 7, wherein the cannabis compactor further comprising a motorized sliding assembly configured to automatically adjust a position of the compacting needle relative to the cone of cannabis in accordance to specifications of the cone of cannabis.

9. The machine as recited in claim 7, wherein the compactor further comprising a cone-holding gripper for holding the cone of cannabis during said compacting the cannabis in the cone; the cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism being configured to modify a distance between the compacting needle and a cone-holding gripper.

10. The machine as recited in claim 9, wherein the cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism comprises a linear actuator that operatively receive the compacting needle.

11. The machine as recited in claim 10, wherein the cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism is responsive to a user input command relative to a selected mode between a constant-compaction mode or a constant-length mode, and to control the linear actuator in accordance with the selected mode.

12. The machine as recited in claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to compare the measured cannabis quantity-related characteristic to a reference value and automatically adjust operation of the further station based on the comparison.

13. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the wherein the at least one further cannabis product transforming station comprises a joint closer having a rotary actuator and a gripper mounted to the rotary actuator for selectively gripping a cone of cannabis; the joint closer being configured to automatically adapt the gripping position of the cone of cannabis based on the measured CQRC.

14. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the further cannabis product transforming station comprises a joint end-former including a tip cutter and a movable gripper; the relative position between the cone and the tip cutter being automatically adapted based on the measured CQRC.

15. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the first and further cannabis product transforming stations are mounted around a motorized carousel configured to index cannabis cones between stations.

16. The machine as recited in claim 15, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to perform a plurality of readings during rotation of the carousel; the machine further comprising a controller configured to average the readings while discarding outliers.

17. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least part of a cannabis product includes a cone of cannabis; the cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism is automatically adapted to one of the following results a) a predetermined cannabis height in the cannabis cone; or b) a predetermined compaction.

18. The machine as recited in claim 17, which is configurable to select between one of the results.

19. The machine as recited in claim 1, further comprising a controller coupled to the at least one sensor and to the at least one further cannabis product transforming station; the controller being configured for receiving a user input command relative to a constant-compaction mode or a constant-length mode, and to control the cannabis quantity-dependent adaptive mechanism to adapt in accordance with the cannabis quantity-related characteristic.

20. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one further cannabis product transforming station an adjusting mechanism to automatically adjust an operating position thereof in accordance to specifications of the at least part of a cone of cannabis.

21. The machine as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least part of a cannabis product in a first state includes a cannabis cone; the specifications include at least one of a length of the cannabis cone and a length of a filter in the cannabis cone.

22. A cannabis-product manufacturing system comprising:a carousel supporting a plurality of holders configured to receive respective cannabis cones;a plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations arranged around the carousel;at least one sensor positioned to measure, during rotation of the carousel, a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of one of the cannabis cones; anda controller configured to:receive a signal indicative of the cannabis quantity-related characteristic;determine, based on the signal, one or more operational parameters for at least one of the cannabis-product transforming stations; andautomatically actuate the at least one cannabis-product transforming station in accordance with the determined operational parameters.

23. A cannabis-product manufacturing machine comprising:a plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations arranged to sequentially process a cannabis product;a plurality of sensors respectively associated with at least two of the stations, each of the plurality of sensors being configured to measure a cannabis quantity-related characteristic of the cannabis product at a corresponding processing stage; andan adaptive actuation system operatively connected to the at least two stations and configured to automatically modify at least one of an operational position, a movement and a force of each of the at least two stations as a function of the cannabis quantity-related characteristic measured by the corresponding sensor,wherein adaptive modification at each of the plurality of cannabis-product transforming stations is performed independently of the others based on the local measurement performed at that stage.

24. A cannabis product-manufacturing process comprising:measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic (CQRC) of at least part of a cannabis product during its manufacture; andusing the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to adaptively transform the at least part of the cannabis product.

25. The cannabis product-manufacturing process as recited in claim 24, wherein the CQRC comprising measuring a height of cannabis in a cone after filling and before compaction.

26. The cannabis product-manufacturing process as recited in claim 25, wherein using the CQRC comprises adjusting a compactor needle height.

27. The cannabis product-manufacturing process as recited in claim 25, wherein using the cannabis quantity-related characteristic to adaptively transform the at least part of the cannabis product comprises adjusting at least one of i) a cone-closing mechanism or a length of a filter in the cone, and ii) a tip-forming cutter28. The cannabis product-manufacturing process as recited in claim 24, wherein the CQRC comprises humidity, level, mass, or cannabis-flow.

29. The cannabis product-manufacturing process as recited in claim 24, wherein measuring a cannabis quantity-related characteristic (CQRC) of at least part of a cannabis product during its manufacture is performed using a laser sensor, fiber-optic sensor, or a combination thereof.

30. The cannabis product-manufacturing process as recited in claim 24, further adaptively transforming the at least part of the cannabis product in accordance to known specifications of the at least part of a cannabis product.

Images