Inventors:
Wilfried Hoffmann - Richmond VA
Gerd Sanmann - Sandston VA
Joerg Foerster - Richmond VA
Peter Trenkner - Richmond VA
Assignee:
Hauni Maschinenbau AG - Hamburg
International Classification:
B65G 4726
Abstract:
A single layer of spaced-apart rod-shaped articles of the tobacco processing industry is advanced sideways toward a transfer zone wherein successive groups of two or more neighboring articles are diverted along separate paths against a concave friction surface of an intercepting member. The friction surface directs at least some of the diverted articles into a chamber where the articles are gathered to form a supply of superimposed articles. A belt or chain conveyor is employed to draw a continuous homogeneous mass flow of articles from the chamber.