Cigarette roller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for hand-rolling cigarettes require dexterity and are not automated, and existing machines are not 'all-in-one' systems, necessitating separate devices for grinding, blending, and wrapping paper.
Innovation Solution
A device with an openable chamber, rolling assembly, and gear assemblies that automate the process of forming a cigarette by rolling paper around ground material, incorporating features like a grinder, blender, funnel, and wetting assembly for a seamless cigarette-making experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If hand rolling or existing hand rolling machines are used, then cigarette formation is possible, but the process requires dexterity and is not automated
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service operation where the system automatically performs the rolling action. The user simply places materials in the chamber and activates the mechanism, which then self-rolls the cigarette without requiring manual manipulation or dexterity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical rolling action with an automated mechanical system. The rolling assembly with rollers and gear assemblies substitutes the human hand's mechanical action, transforming a skill-based manual process into an automated mechanical process.
2Device complexity
If separate devices are used for grinding, blending, and wrapping, then each function can be performed, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate functions (grinding, blending, wrapping) into a single integrated device. The chamber houses the rolling assembly, and additional components for grinding and blending are incorporated into the same structure, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a universal system that performs multiple functions: grinding tobacco, blending the ground material, and rolling the cigarette all in one apparatus. This multi-functional design reduces device complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Productivity
If pre-rolled paper tubes are made manually with devices like The Cone Roller, then tubes can be formed, but the process is not automated and only one tube can be made at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling assembly is designed to enable continuous operation. The gear assemblies and rollers are configured to allow sequential or simultaneous formation of multiple cigarettes, maintaining continuous useful action rather than requiring reset between individual tube formations.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated rolling mechanism performs the tube formation self-service, eliminating manual intervention for each individual tube. The system automatically feeds paper, forms the tube, and can proceed to the next cigarette without requiring the user to manually reposition materials.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and method for rolling a paper tube around ground material to form a cigarette. In an embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises an openable chamber configured to receive ground material, the chamber having a first end and a second end; a rolling assembly disposed within the chamber, the rolling assembly receiving paper and forming a paper tube around the ground material, the rolling assembly having a first end and a second; and a first gear assembly at the first chamber end and communicatively connected the first end of the rolling assembly, and a second gear assembly at the second chamber end and communicatively connected to the second end of the rolling assembly, the first and second gear activating the rolling assembly when rotated to roll the paper around the ground material forming a cigarette.