Patent ID: 6526985
Filing Date: 2003-03-04
Classification: A24C,B23K

Abstract:
Apparatus for increasing the permeability of a tubular wrapper of an elongated rod-shaped article having a longitudinal axis and a predetermined diameter, comprising:a first rolling member; a second rolling member movable relative to said first member, said first and second members respectively having first and second rolling surfaces defining at least one rolling channel having a height such that, as a result of movement of said second member relative to said first member and upon entry into said at least one channel, the article is compelled to roll about its axis and to move sideways from an inlet to an outlet of the at least one channel; a source of at least one beam of penetrative radiation; means for focussing said at least one beam along at least one path defined by one of said members and upon the wrapper of the article rolling in said at least one channel; and means for conveying the article toward said inlet and away from said outlet, said second member comprising at least one flexible element having a portion located within said conveying means.