Vacuum arrangement on combiner

摘要

This invention relates to a method for delivering free-flowing material into discrete receiving spaces separating filter plugs in partially constructed cigarette filter assemblies. The method includes rapidly feeding a free-flowing material such as charcoal into partially constructed cigarette filter assemblies. The free-flowing material is dispensed to a first conveyance and is subsequently transferred to a second conveyance that is positioned parallel and above the first conveyance. Vacuum is used to hold the free-flowing particulate material onto the first conveyance and is used to transfer the free-flowing material to the second conveyance and to hold it there. The free-flowing material is next transferred onto receiving spaces formed between articles such as cigarette filter plugs that are disposed on a third conveyance. The transfer of the free-flowing material to the receiving spaces and retention is also facilitated by application of vacuum.