APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INTRODUCING OBJECTS INTO A SMOKING ARTICLE

摘要

An apparatus for introducing objects into a continuous flow of material comprises: - a reservoir (1) for the objects; - a rotatable transfer wheel (3) for transporting the objects to an insertion unit for introducing the objects into the continuous flow of material; - a transfer chamber (2) arranged between the reservoir (1) and the rotatable transfer wheel (3). Means are provided for generating a circulating movement of the objects along the peripheral surface of the rotatable transfer wheel (3). A return member (20) reverses the direction of movement of the objects in the transfer chamber (2). The return member (20) has a drop-like shape comprising a peak (200), two straight flanks (201) and a curved portion (202) connecting the straight flanks (201). The peak (200) faces towards the interior of the transfer chamber (2). One flank (201) extends essentially tangential to the peripheral surface of the rotatable transfer wheel (3).