Drinking Straw Transfer via Compressed Air Blast

The patent employs a compressed air blast device to transfer drinking straws from longitudinal to transverse conveying direction. Instead of mechanical contact that causes damage, compressed air is used as a non-contact force to gently propel the straws. The air blast is directed through holes in a wall, creating a controlled airflow that moves the straws without physical impact, thereby maintaining their integrity while achieving the directional transfer.

The invention replaces conventional mechanical transferring mechanisms (such as conveyors, pushers, or grippers) with a pneumatic system. The compressed air blast substitutes for mechanical force, eliminating the need for direct physical contact between transferring components and the drinking straws. This substitution reduces mechanical stress and damage while maintaining transfer efficiency.

The compressed air blast device operates in periodic pulses rather than continuously. The air blast is activated only when needed to transfer individual straws or batches, creating a rhythmic transfer pattern. This periodic action maintains gentle handling by avoiding continuous high-velocity airflow that could cause damage, while still achieving high transfer rates through optimized pulse timing and frequency.

The pneumatic transfer system applies compressed air locally at specific points where straws need directional change. The air blast is targeted through specific holes in the wall, creating localized high-velocity airflow only where needed for transfer. This localized application ensures gentle handling in non-transfer zones while maintaining efficiency in transfer zones, balancing protection and productivity.