Patent ID: 6513533
Filing Date: 2003-02-04
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
A method of forming tubular wrappings on a cigarette packing machine; each tubular wrapping (41) being formed from a sheet (5) of wrapping material folded into a U about a respective group (4) of cigarettes and having two end portions defining a first (6) and a second (7) tab; the method comprising the steps of feeding each group (4) continuously, by means of a respective substantially radial conveying head (10), in a direction (A) along an annular path (P) extending about a first axis (8), said second tab (7) being interposed between said first tab (6) and said first axis (8), said two end portions projecting rearwards with respect to said group (4) and to said direction (A); and folding the two tabs (6, 7) of each said sheet (5) of wrapping material onto the respective said group (4), as the group (4) is fed along said annular path (P), to form a tubular wrapping (41) about the respective said group (4); each said first tab (6) being folded by means of a respective outer folding member (27), which is associated with the respective said conveying head (10), is located outwards of said annular path (P), and is movable to cooperate with the respective said first tab (6) at a folding station (26); said outer folding members (27) being equal in number to said conveying heads (10) located along said annular path (P); and each said outer folding member (27) being moved continuously and in such a manner as to remain substantially parallel at all times to the respective said conveying head (10).