EP1264550A2 - Method and device for manipulating a wrapping material of a product of the tobacco industry and method and system to ensure the authenticity of products of the tobacco industry - Google Patents

Abstract

Processing of a sleeve material (13) of a tobacco product comprises feeding the sleeve material into the working region of at least one radiation source (38), and producing a marking by irradiating the sleeve material with radiation. Parts of the sleeve material are changed. The marking has a geometric form with an outline having partly a discontinuous slope and/or convex and concave regions. Independent claims are also included for a device for processing the sleeve material, a cigarette packing machine, a process for verifying the authenticity of the products, and a system for verifying the authenticity of the products. Preferred Features: The material-changing step comprises the removal of material.

Description

The invention relates to a method and a device for processing a wrapping material of a product the tobacco processing industry as well as a process and a system for checking the authenticity of products from the tobacco processing industry.

That exists in the tobacco processing industry Problem that counterfeit tobacco processing products Industry either in original packaging (so-called repacking) or also in counterfeit packaging or in Case of cigarettes cigarette packets in the market in not inconsiderable quantities are available. such counterfeit cigarettes or tobacco processing products Industry are of poor quality as they are were usually manufactured cheaply. such Products usually have less tobacco Quality on.

By selling such counterfeit products comes there are delusions of origin among the end consumers, namely the smokers who, for example, at bad tasting tobacco products cause the smoker this bad taste to the manufacturer of the original goods ascribes and the brand changes. hereby on the one hand there is considerable damage to reputation the manufacturer of the original goods, as well as financial Loss of the manufacturer of the original goods.

The counterfeit products, which in the following also include piracy products are sometimes called easy to recognize and partly not even recognizable by experts.

To counterfeit goods or piracy products to distinguish from original products were in the Past, for example, introduced holograms that are based on Packaging of original tobacco products attached were. Furthermore, end-shaped filters or with Inscription-coated covering papers used.

All of these measures have the disadvantage that these are either relatively expensive or light can be imitated. It is also very good, for example complex to produce corresponding holograms and to apply these to packs of, for example, cigarettes.

In contrast, the invention is based on the object to specify a method and a device by means of which is possible quickly and easily and reliable way of packaging or tobacco products like adding elements to cigarettes with which it is possible to ascertain with certainty whether it is this is an original product or a counterfeit is. The appropriate to be attached or existing Elements to determine the authenticity of each Products are said to be very difficult themselves or can only be faked with great effort. After all, fakes of this are supposed to be relatively easy be recognizable. It is another object of the present Invention, a corresponding method and a appropriate system to ensure authenticity of tobacco processing products, with which a corresponding review or assurance the authenticity of the products in a simple way and possible and relatively quickly and inexpensively is.

• Zuführen des Hüllmaterials in den Wirkbereich wenigstens einer Strahlungsquelle,
• Erzeugen einer Markierung durch Beaufschlagen des Hüllmaterials mit einer von der wenigstens einen Strahlungsquelle ausgehenden Strahlung, wodurch das Hüllmaterial bereichsweise verändert wird und wobei die Markierung eine geometrische Form aufweist, deren Umriß teilweise eine diskontinuierliche Steigung aufweist und/oder konvexe und konkave Bereiche umfaßt.

This task is solved by a process for processing a wrapping material of a product of the tobacco processing industry, comprising the following process steps:

• Feeding the enveloping material into the effective area of at least one radiation source,
• Generating a marking by subjecting the enveloping material to radiation emanating from the at least one radiation source, as a result of which the enveloping material is changed in some areas and the marking has a geometric shape, the outline of which partially has a discontinuous gradient and / or comprises convex and concave regions.

The method according to the invention makes it possible to to generate appropriate markings by means of which the authenticity of the tobacco processing products Industry can be checked in a simple manner can. Under wrapping material in the context of this invention in particular topping paper, cigarette paper, box blanks, Wrapping film and packaging material in the general viewed. The geometric shape of the marking is preferably definable or predefinable. This can have a relatively simple shape, such as for example a cross like a Swiss flag; the However, marking can also be a very complex form exhibit. Preferably the shape comprises alternately acute and obtuse angles. The marker preferably has predeterminable characteristic features.

If the step of changing the area by area Wrapping material includes removing material is one Imitation of a corresponding marking is difficult to do to reach. If preferably a perforation in the The markings can also be generated as the otherwise usual perforation in, for example, cigarette paper Find use. Then it is not necessary or only partially necessary, further perforations, like this otherwise in the manufacture of It is common to provide cigarettes.

If when changing the envelope material in areas chemical change takes place, the marking can be made more easily visible or is one automatic detection of the marking simplified. Under chemical change is especially a coloring, another, for example crystalline or amorphous structure as the starting material, the creation of new ones chemical compounds or, for example, an oxidation understood, whereby in particular, for example, the reflection coefficient of the wrapping material changes. If at melting of the envelope material in some areas happens, this can be done in a simple manner to be changed. When creating multiple marks the wrapping material between two moments or Steps of generating at least one marker each a predetermined path is transported, it is preferably possible one or more lines of weakness Apply lines of weakness. In this regard in particular with reference to DE 195 11 393 and German Patent Application No. 100 41 020.0 to Applicant. The latter two patent applications should be fully relevant to their disclosure in this patent application may be included.

The radiation is preferably focused in particular on the enveloping material or in a focus in the vicinity of the enveloping material. If the marking has an extent of up to 50 μm, it is difficult to produce it mechanically, for example by punching it out, so that copying of a corresponding marking by a counterfeiter is made more difficult. Such an expansion is usually generated with a CO ₂ laser. When using a YAG laser, markings with an extension of 10 µm are also possible. Basically, the resolution, ie the sharpness of the edges of the marking, depends on the wavelength of the light used and the quality of the focusing optics used. The maximum possible resolution is approximately half the wavelength of the light used. It is therefore preferred to use a laser that emits short-wave radiation.

The task is also carried out by a facility for Processing wrapping material of the tobacco processing industry Industry, comprising at least one radiation device, can be directed onto the enveloping material by means of the radiation is solved, at least by means of the radiation an area of the wrapping material can be processed, wherein a marker can also be generated, which is a geometric one Has shape, the outline of which partially discontinuous slope and / or convex and concave areas. The geometric shape is preferably definable or specifiable. The mark is in particular an area in the wrapping material in which the casing material has been changed mechanically, physically or chemically. For this purpose, for example, material ablated. The removal can be carried out as far as that a perforation is created or previously interrupted be so that material in the area of the marking remains. The marking can also be colored or comprise melting the wrapping material.

If a transport device for transporting the Envelope material is provided, a number of Markings at different points on the wrapping material be attached. This set of markings, which can then be attached, can also be installed in a Type coding should be provided. This will be different Markings in a certain marking area applied or generated, which then for the corresponding products should be characteristic.

The radiation device preferably comprises a laser, in particular a CO ₂ laser, a YAG laser or an excimer laser. If the intensity and / or power density and / or energy density of the radiation can be controlled and / or selected, markings of a desired quality can be generated.

In one embodiment, the radiation device comprises an element specifying the shape of the marking. This embodiment of the invention is a given particularly easy to implement. The element preferably comprises an aperture and / or a Focusing. Furthermore, is in a special embodiment the invention the element is a diffractive optical element. A diffractive optical element is disclosed, for example, in DE 195 11 393 A1. It deals is basically an optical element that creates a focus by diffraction. With an appropriate diffractive optical element, which in hereinafter also referred to as DOE, the various geometric shapes as markings be generated. Here, in particular, the Figures 3 and 5 of DE 195 11 393 A1 referenced various focal spots in the form of a peripheral perforation represent.

A cigarette rod machine is preferably one Filter attachment machine, a cigarette packaging machine and / or a film wrapping machine with an inventive Furnish.

The task is also highlighted on a Wrapping material of the tobacco processing industry, comprehensive a geometric shape, the outline of which is partly a discontinuous slope and / or concave and includes convex areas. By such Marking it is easily possible to fake Differentiate products from real products, whereby For example, the respective manufacturer for certain batches corresponding geometrical products Can choose shapes.

Preferably, several corners are provided at which the Slope is discontinuous. In a preferred one Embodiment alternate corners with pointed Angles and corners with obtuse angles. In one The embodiment is the largest diameter Marking in the range of less than or equal to 50 µm. This marking can also be reduced, so that, for example, the largest diameter in the range of approximately Is 10 µm. If the edges of the marking have a structure or have sharpness in the range from 150 to 350 nm, it is very difficult and expensive for counterfeiters, produce appropriate markings. Under structure or sharpness is particularly the degree of discontinuity on the edge, where physically one approximate discontinuity of the edge in the range of 150 nm to 350 nm is preferably achievable. The edge area or the inaccuracy of the edge extends over a path of 150 nm to 350 nm. Is preferred the mark a material weakening. If the mark is a perforation of the wrapping material, it is possible, for example only a few in the case of cigarette paper to provide additional perforations or even to provide no further perforations, so that putting the mark in place of the usual Perforations can be used, which means no more time to generate the mark or the perforation in the manufacture of cigarettes is necessary.

The marking is particularly easy to recognize given if it has a color other than the wrapping material outside the mark.

Preferably comprises a line of weakness of a wrapping material the tobacco processing industry several of the vorgen. Markings according to the invention. Regarding the Conceptual content of a line of weakness is applied to the Application 100 41 020.0 referenced to the applicant full reference is made. Preferably there is the line of weakness exclusively from the invention Marks.

A rod-shaped product is preferably the tobacco processing product Industry, especially using a cigarette provided at least one marking according to the invention. A packaging of products is preferably the tobacco processing industry with at least one provided marking according to the invention.

The marking according to the invention is preferably used for Authenticity testing of tobacco processing products Industry used.

The task is further accomplished through a safeguard procedure the authenticity of tobacco processing products Industry, comprising the procedural steps of Sighting on a wrapping material of the products Marking and comparing the mark solved with the mark given for these products. For example, with a correspondingly large marking by the end user through simple viewing be determined whether there is a corresponding Marking of a sufficient quality is available to determine whether it is the one to be considered Cigarette or packaging to be considered a real one Product and not a counterfeit. Under Sifting is particularly within the scope of this invention Recording, rearing and photography, in particular by means of a digital camera.

Sifting is preferably carried out by means of an enlarging device such as a reading magnifier or a microscope or a magnifying lens.

When sifting using an image pickup device happens, the viewed image is saved, is an automation of the method according to the invention easily possible. If in a subsequent Image processing the marker saved as an image is standardized to a standard size, is a comparison with predefined markings easily possible. If preferred comparing by comparing the sighted marking of the stored image and / or standardized image with a specifiable, in particular stored further image happens is a very given a safe way to determine whether the Products are real or fake. If the further picture on a computer system remote from the sighting site is stored, for example, on a computer system of the manufacturer, is a very safe process to ensure or ascertain the authenticity of Products of the tobacco processing industry possible. If, in addition, by means of further data the further picture is selected, the possibility of counterfeiting further restricted as the counterfeiters are typically don't know what other data related to of the respective marking are relevant. The others Data can be, for example, the brand name or a package stamp be entered into a computer system can be sent to a computer system can be selected by selecting the further image. A signal is preferably used as the result of the method for a real product or for a fake product output.

Finally, the task is carried out by a system Ensuring the authenticity of tobacco processing products Industry with an image acquisition device and a storage device on which predefinable images are storable in memory, solved, one Data connection between the image recording device of the Storage device is provided and wherein a Comparison device is provided by means of a image recorded by the image recording device comparable to a memory content of the memory device and wherein an output device for output of comparison data is provided.

In the context of this invention, comparison data in particular understood a signal that indicates whether it is a fake or an original or a real product. Comparative data can also Differential values such as squares of errors or superimposed images as added images or Difference images, by means of which a person such as a Customs officers or wholesalers can instantly tell if it is is a fake or a real product is. The image recording device preferably comprises a magnifying element. This is, for example, a microscope or a magnifying lens. If an image processing device is provided by means of the particular captured images can be digitized is one Automation of checking the authenticity of products the tobacco processing industry without further ado possible. Preferably the storage device comprises a database. The comparison device is in one Embodiment of the invention a computer.

Fig. 1

eine Vorderansicht einer Filteransetzmaschine mit einer Einrichtung gem. der Erfindung,

Fig. 2

eine Einrichtung nach der Erfindung zum Perforieren eines Belagpapierstreifens in einer perspektivischen schematischen Darstellung,

Fig. 3a) bis 3c)

entsprechend unterschiedlich geformte Markierungen,

Fig. 4

in einer dreidimensionalen schematischen Darstellung eine Zigarettenverpackungsmaschine,

Fig. 5

eine schematische Darstellung einer Folienzuführeinrichtung mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Einrichtung zur Erzeugung von Markierungen, und

Fig. 6

eine schematische Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Systems zur Sicherstellung der Echtheit von Zigaretten.

The invention is described below without restricting the general inventive concept on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to drawings, to which reference is expressly made with regard to all details according to the invention not explained in detail in the text. Show it:

Fig. 1

a front view of a filter attachment machine with a device according. the invention,

Fig. 2

a device according to the invention for perforating a covering paper strip in a perspective schematic representation,

3a) to 3c)

correspondingly shaped markings,

Fig. 4

a three-dimensional schematic representation of a cigarette packaging machine,

Fig. 5

a schematic representation of a film feed device with a device according to the invention for generating markings, and

Fig. 6

is a schematic representation of a system according to the invention for ensuring the authenticity of cigarettes.

The following figures are the same or corresponding Features identified by the same reference numerals, so that from re-imagining these characteristics is disregarded in each case.

The machine shown in Fig. 1 is around a Hauni MAX filter attachment machine Maschinenbau AG, with one working with a laser Separation arrangement and a laser perforation arrangement. Such a machine is known, for example, from US Pat. No. 4,281,670 and DE 198 24 849 A1 known. She points out the following Details on.

An infeed drum 1 transfers them to a cigarette manufacturing machine produced cigarettes in two Relay drums 2, which feed the staggered Unstack cigarettes and in rows of two with a space between the cigarettes to one Deliver assembly drum 3. The filter rods arrive from a magazine 4 onto a cutting drum 6 from two circular knives 7 to filter plugs double Cut to length of use, on a relay drum 8 staggered, from a sliding drum 9 to a row aligned plug aligned and from an accelerator drum 11 in the spaces between the Rows of cigarettes placed on the assembly drum 3.

The cigarette filter cigarette groups are pushed together so that they lie axially close together. Then they are transferred from a transfer drum 12 accepted. A covering paper strip 13 is one Bobine 14 is drawn off by means of take-off rollers 16. The stripe 13 is around a sharp edge Prebreaker 17 steered around by a gluing device 18 glued and cut on a cutting drum 19. The separated covering sheets (connecting sheets) are attached to the cigarette filter groups on the transfer drum 12 attached and on a roller drum 22 by means of a rolling hand 23 around the cigarette filter groups rolled around. The finished groups of double filter cigarettes are a drying drum 24 one Cutting drum 26 fed and on this by center Cut through the filter plug Single filter cigarettes assembled, at the same time defective filter cigarettes are ejected.

One with a transfer drum 27 and a collecting drum 28 cooperating turning device 29 turns one Row of filter cigarettes and simultaneously transfers them into via the transfer drum 27 and the collecting drum 28 continuous unturned filter cigarette row. about the filter cigarettes arrive at a test drum 31 an ejection drum 32 on which before the ejection process in addition, the head scan of the filter cigarettes takes place. A depositing drum cooperating with a brake drum 33 34 places the filter cigarettes on a deposit belt 36th

The device according to the invention is with the reference number 38 provided. This is shown more clearly in FIG. 2, the as an embodiment of the invention Perforating device 38 from FIG. 1 in a schematic represents perspective view. At 13 is again the strip of glued connecting paper designated. The perforating arrangement 38 has one of a control arrangement 41 controlled laser 42, which emits a pulsed laser beam 43. The Laser beam 43 is deflected by a deflecting mirror 44 and from a translucent mirror 46 into two of the same Partial beams 43a) and 43b) split. The partial beam 43b) is made by the partially transparent mirror 46 at the same time deflected towards the topping paper strip 13. On another mirror 47 directs the partially transparent Partial beam 43a) passing mirror 46 also for Covering paper strips 13 around.

The partial beams 43a) and 43b) are separated by optics 48, only one of which is shown in FIG two traces of perforation 49 and 49a) on the covering paper strip 13 focused, where they perforations 51 or 51a) generate. The perforations 51 and 51a) are in Fig. 2 shown as circles or holes. As part of the Invention will be equivalent to the circles instead Perforations or markings made, for example. how the geometric shapes look, which are shown in fig. 3a) to 3c) are shown.

Diffractive lenses are provided as optics 48 have a correspondingly predeterminable intensity profile. The intensity profile is such that an im substantially uniform intensity in the area of mark to be made exists, whereas outside this marking if possible no intensity at all should be present. Diffractive optical elements are basically in DE 198 24 849 A1 and DE 195 11 393 A1 discloses, it being possible without problems is to design these diffractive optics in this way or to calculate and produce that the desired Shape of the focal spots of the laser radiation on the envelope material is set. The revelation of these two Registrations should be fully in this registration be included.

3a) to 3c) are corresponding according to the invention Markings shown, as shown in Fig. 2, in rows 49 and 49a) for example on a covering paper strip 13 can be produced. These marks can but also on cigarette packs or wrapping material of cigarette packs or on cigarette paper. The corresponding invention Markers have different shapes on. In the case of FIG. 3a), the marking represents one Kind of cross, like this one in the Swiss flag can be seen. The area within the outline 58 is designed differently than the area outside the Outline 58. For example, some material can be inside the area 58 be removed, so that a Thinning of the wrapping material in the marking 55 given is. The mark 55 or the geometric Shape of the marking 55 acc. 3a) has several Areas of discontinuous slope 59 on as well relatively sharp edges 54. The one in the marking 55 The largest diameter D shown is, for example, in one Range between 10 µm and 50 µm depending on the used Laser. It should be assumed that such a sharp-edged marking not mechanically like is made possible, for example, by punching out. The mark can also be such that in the area of the outline 58 no wrapping material is left, so that there is a kind of perforation.

3b) shows a different geometric shape Mark 55. Here are convex areas 56 and concave areas 57 simultaneously in one marking intended. In Fig. 3c) there is a marking accordingly represented in the form of a star shape, which due to the relatively fine structures even more difficult to copy is.

4 is three-dimensional in a very schematic form a cigarette packaging machine shown in the a device according to the invention is provided. It are cigarettes in a mass flow feed 61 Cigarette packing machine fed. These cigarettes fall through the feed chute 62 into block formation chutes 63. Of the block formation shafts 63 corresponding cigarettes in a known manner Bags 65 of a bag conveyor 64 transferred. to Transfer of cigarettes 66 from the block formation shaft in the respective pockets 65 is a drive element 69b) provided that an insertion plunger 70 emotional. The pocket conveyor 64 is by means of a Drive roller 68, which has a drive element 69a) is driven, cyclically, for example, in steps twice Division moves. A corresponding procedure and one corresponding device for block formation of cigarettes and to transfer the cigarette blocks into the corresponding pockets 65 of the pocket conveyor 64 For example, in German patent application 100 11 989.1 Applicant who assigned the US patent application with the serial no. 09 / 736.189. The revelation of these patent applications should be fully in the present patent application may be included.

A finished cigarette block 67 is then by means of a Block slide 71 in the effective area of an inner wrapping material strip 76 brought. The inside wrap strip 76 is in advance above the Engagement area with the cigarette blocks 67 by means of the removal device 75, which, for example, also a laser and appropriate optics includes, accordingly with the markings according to the invention have been provided. At the Transporting the cigarette blocks 67 through the engagement area with the inner wrapping material strip 76 it is folded around the cigarette blocks accordingly. By further transport using the block conveyor 72 further folding steps are taken. The corresponding folding organs and also other organs a corresponding cigarette packaging machine for the sake of simplicity and clarity 4 has been omitted.

Those wrapped with the inner wrap strip 76 Cigarette blocks then come into the effective range of one first folding plate, in which this with a collar 80 in Be connected. After providing one Internal wrapping block with a Collar 80 and corresponding folding of the collar 80 in the 1st Folding plate, a package consisting of one arrives Collar 80, which is on an inside wrap material provided cigarette block is arranged in a Transfer station 82, at which blankets 85 in Be connected with the package just mentioned, whereby when transferring from the 1st folding plate to the 2nd Folding plate already the first folding steps on the respective Blankets 85 are made. The blankets 85 are via a blanket conveyor 86 to the transfer station 82 fed. In the second folding plate 83 you will find more Folding steps on the blankets 85 instead. A corresponding Packaging machine is, for example, from DE 199 47 Applicant's 709.4, the United States patent application 09 / 678.671 corresponds, known.

After the second folding plate 83, the corresponding almost completely folded blank sheets 85 provided Blocks of cigarettes via a pack conveyor 87 to one Drying drum 88 transferred. On the way to the drying drum 88 are the still open side tabs provided with glue and folded onto the inside flaps. The glue is dried in the drying drum 88. After the drying drum 88, the finished Cigarette packs 115 via a delivery conveyor 90 in Delivery chutes 89 transferred.

In this exemplary embodiment, the marking or the markings are applied to an inside wrap Service. However, these can also be in the area of the blank conveyor onto the blank be or at a later date on e.g. another wrapping material into which the finished Cigarette packs 115 can still be wrapped.

5 is a schematic representation of a Foil feed device with an inventive Device for generating corresponding markings shown. A strip of wrapping material a film strip 122 is on a bobbin 120 rolled up and is in the conveying direction 121 via a Deflection roller 123 finally in the engagement area of Brought cigarette packs with the foil too are enveloping. On the way to the cigarette packs 115 the film comes into the effective range of a laser beam 126 emitted by a laser 124 and is bundled via an optic 125, the optic 125 For example, can be provided with an aperture, the corresponding a desired mark is formed. By means of this laser, for example, during the Conveying the film produces appropriate markings are, the laser preferably operated in a pulsed manner becomes.

After creating the markings, the film comes into the Area of a film cross cutter 127, which can be specified Place a cross section of the film so that appropriate film sections are generated. In these Foil sections are cigarette packs 115, which in the conveying direction 128 of the cigarette pack 115 is conveyed are initially introduced in the form of a U. Then the partially wrapped cigarette packets 115 transferred into folding pockets of folding turret 129, in which then the further required folding operations be carried out.

Devices of the type designation IMPACT 3000 from Lumonics GmbH, Junkerstrasse 5, D-82178 Puchheim, DE, can be used. These are C02 lasers, which is a pulsed laser radiation with a very short Send out the beam duration and very high energy content can. Diffractive lenses are, for example, from Coherent, Inc., 2301 Lindberghstreet, Auburn, CA 95602, USA or Laser Components, Werner-von-Siemens-Strasse 15, D-82140 Olching.

The control of the marking can also be different Way. For example. can with or without inexpensive tools such as a reading magnifier the end user himself determines whether there is any the corresponding marking is present.

With a little more elaborate tools like microscopes, wholesalers can use random samples to determine whether a Mark badly copied by mechanical means was or whether a somewhat more complex marking using For example, laser beams and corresponding diffractive Optics or screens was carried out.

In addition, wholesalers or, for example, customs can use a Image processing system shown in Fig. 6 that schematically an inventive system for securing the authenticity of tobacco processing products Industry represents very sure to determine whether a counterfeit product is present or not.

The image processing system comprises a test chamber 100, to which a microscope 101 is connected. In the Test chamber 100 can, for example, packs of cigarettes 115 be introduced. The ones on the cigarette packs 115 Markings applied can be viewed using microscope 101 taken enlarged by means of a digital camera 102 become. The digital image taken with the digital camera was recorded, is connected via a connecting cable 103 fed to a computer 105. Via a monitor 106 the recorded image can then be displayed. By entering further information about a Keyboard 107 such as the brand name of the cigarettes or a possibly applied embossing, which, for example, can be a sequence of digits, can now, for example. marks present in the computer 105 that this Additional information should correspond with the recorded Image to be compared.

It is also possible that, for example, the captured image or sample is digitized accordingly and if necessary with the additional information to a host computer 108, which also is a computer, via a data line or a Data cable 104 is transmitted. The computer 108, the for example at the manufacturer of the corresponding cigarettes can be set up, includes a hard disk 109 on the one for certain batches of cigarette packs Additional information such as the sequence of digits on the each pack can be shaped, stored. It can also be used for the respective brand name valid markings or combinations of different Markings using the data on the hard disk be assigned. The host computer can then do this be programmed so that by means of a correlation comparison, i.e. a comparison of the for each Packaging or the respective embossing in the form, for example. an identifier, intended marking or markings match those on the packaging 115 are upset. The marking should then, for example or several in a database on the hard disk 109 stored patterns or patterns correspond. As Feedback from computer 108 is sufficient as Response to send a signal representative of the information is whether this is an original or a counterfeit. That way do not need any further confidential information be revealed.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

infeed drum

2

staggering drum

3

Assembly drum

4

magazine

6

cutting drum

7

circular blade

8th

staggering drum

9

pushing drum

11

accelerating drum

12

Transfer drum

13

Covering paper strip

14

reel

16

off roll

17

primary crusher

18

gluing device

19

cutting drum

22

rolling drum

23

roll hand

24

dry drum

26

cutting drum

27

Transfer drum

28

collecting drum

29

turning device

31

Auswerftrommel

32

Auswerftrommel

33

brake drum

34

offshoot drum

36

offshoot band

38

perforating

39

movement direction

41

control arrangement

42

laser

43

laser beam

43a

partial beam

43b

partial beam

44

deflecting

46

semi-transparent mirror

47

mirror

48

optics

49

weakening line

49a

weakening line

51

perforation

51a

perforation

54

edge

55

mark

56

convex area

57

concave area

58

Outline

59

Discontinuous area pitch

60

Cigarette packaging machine

61

Mass flow feeder

62

feed chute

63

Blocking chute

64

pocket conveyor

65

bag

66

Cigarette

67

cigarette block

68

capstan

69a

driving element

69b

driving element

70

insertion plunger

71

block slider

72

block conveyor

75

the removal device

76

Inner wrap material strips

80

collar

81

1. Folding plate

82

Transfer station

83

2nd folding plate

85

Blankett

86

Blankettförderer

87

pack conveyor

88

Dry drum.

89

delivery well

90

discharge conveyor

100

test chamber

101

microscope

102

digital camera

103

connection cable

104

data cable

105

computer

106

monitor

107

keyboard

108

computer

109

hard disk

115

cigarette pack

120

reel

121

conveying direction

122

film strips

123

idler pulley

124

laser

125

optics

126

laser beam

127

Foil sheeter

128

Delivery direction of the cigarette pack

129

folding turret

D

largest diameter

Claims (40)

A method for processing a wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 122) of a product of the tobacco processing industry, comprising the following method steps: Feeding the enveloping material (13, 76, 85, 122) into the effective area of at least one radiation source (38, 42, 75, 124), Generating a marking (51, 51a, 55) by applying radiation (43a, 43b, 126) from the at least one radiation source (38, 42, 75, 124) to the enveloping material (13, 76, 85, 122), thereby the envelope material (13, 76, 85, 122) is changed in some areas and the marking (51, 51a, 55) has a geometric shape, the outline (58) of which partially has a discontinuous slope (59) and / or convex (56) and concave (57) areas. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the step of changing the envelope material (13, 76, 85, 122) in regions comprises removing material. Method according to Claim 2, characterized in that a perforation (51, 51a) is produced in the covering material (13, 76, 85, 123). Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that a chemical change takes place when the envelope material (13, 76, 85, 123) is changed in certain areas. Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that melting occurs when the envelope material (13, 76, 85, 123) is changed in regions. Method according to one or more of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, in order to produce a plurality of markings (51, 51a, 55), the wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) transports a predeterminable path between two moments in which at least one marking was generated becomes. Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the radiation (43a, 43b, 126) is focused. Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the marking (51, 51a, 55) has an extent of up to 50 µm. Device for processing wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) of the tobacco processing industry, comprising at least one radiation device (41 to 48; 75; 124, 125), by means of the radiation (43a, 43b, 126) onto the wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) can be directed, whereby at least one area of the enveloping material (13, 76, 85, 123) can be processed by means of the radiation (43a, 43b, 126), characterized in that a marking (51, 51a, 55) Can be produced, which has a geometric shape, the outline (58) of which partially has a discontinuous slope (59) and / or comprises convex (56) and concave (57) regions. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that a transport device (Fig. 1, 39, 72, 81, 83, 86, 87, 123) is provided for transporting the wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123). Device according to claim 9 and / or 10, characterized in that the radiation device (41 to 48; 75; 124, 125) comprises a laser (42, 124), in particular a C02 laser, a YAG laser or an excimer laser. Device according to one or more of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the intensity and / or power density and / or energy density of the radiation (43a, 43b, 126) can be controlled and / or selected. Device according to one or more of Claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the radiation device (41 to 48; 75; 124, 125) comprises an element (48, 125) which defines the shape of the marking (51, 51a, 55). Device according to claim 13, characterized in that the element (48, 125) comprises an aperture and / or a focusing element (48, 125). Device according to claim 13 and / or 14, characterized in that the element (48, 125) comprises a diffractive optical element. Cigarette rod machine, filter attachment machine, Cigarette packaging machine and / or foil wrapping machine with one device after one or more of claims 9 to 15. Marking (51, 51a, 55) on a wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) of the tobacco processing industry a geometric shape, the outline (58) of which is partially a discontinuous slope (59) and / or concave (57) and convex (56) areas. Marking according to claim 17, characterized in that several corners (59) are provided at which the slope is discontinuous. Marking according to claim 17 and / or 18, characterized in that the largest diameter (D) of the marking (51, 51a, 55) is in the range of less than or equal to 50 µm. Marking according to one or more of Claims 17 to 19, characterized in that it has edges (54) whose structure or sharpness is in the range from 150 nm to 350 nm. Marking according to one or more of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the marking (51, 51a, 55) is a material weakening. Marking according to one or more of claims 17 to 21, characterized in that the marking (51, 51a, 55) is a perforation (51, 51a) of the wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123). Marking according to one or more of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the marking (51, 51a, 55) has a different color than the wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) outside the marking (51, 51a, 55) ). Line of weakness (49, 49a) of a wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) of the tobacco processing industry several markings (51, 51a, 55) after one or several of claims 17 to 23. Rod-shaped product (66) of tobacco processing Industry, especially cigarette, with at least one Marking (51, 51a, 55) according to one or more of the Claims 17 to 23. Packaging (115) of tobacco processing products Industry, with at least one marking (51, 51a, 55) according to one or more of claims 17 to 23rd Use of a marking (51, 51a, 55) after a or more of claims 17 to 23, for authenticity testing of products (66, 115) of the tobacco processing industry Industry. Process for verifying the authenticity of products (66, 115) the tobacco processing industry, comprising the step of sifting on a wrapping material (13, 76, 85, 123) of the products (66, 115) applied marking (51, 51a, 55) and the Compare the marking (51, 51a, 55) with one for these products (66, 115) predefined or selectable Mark. A method according to claim 28, characterized in that the sifting takes place by means of an enlarging device (101). A method according to claim 28 and / or 29, characterized in that the sifting takes place by means of an image recording device (102), the viewed image being stored. Method according to Claim 30, characterized in that in a subsequent image processing the marking (51, 51a, 55) stored as an image is standardized to a standard size. Method according to one or more of claims 28 to 31, characterized in that the comparison is carried out by comparing the sighted marking (51, 51a, 55), the stored image and / or the normalized image with a specifiable, in particular stored, further image , Method according to claim 32, characterized in that the further image is stored on a computer system (108, 109) remote from the location of the viewing. Method according to claim 32 and / or 33, characterized in that the further image is selected by means of further data. Method according to one or more of claims 28 to 34, characterized in that a signal for a real product (66, 115) or for a counterfeit product (66, 115) is output as a result of the method. System for verifying the authenticity of products (66, 115) of the tobacco processing industry with a Image recording device (100, 101, 102) and one Storage device (105, 109) on which specifiable Images can be stored in memory contents, one being Data connection (103, 104) between the image recording device (100 to 102) and the storage device (105, 109) is provided and a comparison device (105, 108) is provided by means of a by the image recording device (100 to 102) Image with a storage content of the storage device (105, 109) and where one Output device (106) for outputting comparison data is provided. System according to claim 36, characterized in that the image recording device (100 to 102) comprises a magnifying element (101). System according to claim 36 and / or 37, characterized in that an image processing device (105, 108, 109) is provided, by means of which in particular recorded images can be digitized. System according to one or more of claims 36 to 38, characterized in that the storage device (105, 109) comprises a database. System according to one or more of claims 36 to 39, characterized in that the comparison device is a computer or part of a computer (105, 108).
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