Apparatus for handling rod-like articles

摘要

A tray filling unit in which batches of cigarettes, for plunging into a tray, are formed on a conveyor by inserting divider plates into a stream of cigarettes while it is conveyed down an inclined path leading to the conveyor. Successive batches formed on the conveyor are moved transversely off the conveyor onto a movable transfer plate which supports the batch while it is pushed into a tray by the plunger. Trays are moved stepwise downwards to receive successive batches. The basic unit is capable of use in reverse as a tray unloader.