Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for forming a smoke filter including a forming nozzle through which a fibrous bundle material passes. The forming nozzle includes a converging passage, at least one first internal cavity in fluid connection with a first working fluid source, and a plurality of first holes fluidly connecting the at least one first internal cavity with a working surface of the forming nozzle. The plurality of first holes are further positioned and directed such that in passing through the plurality of first holes, the first working fluid conveys the fibrous bundle material through the forming nozzle in a transport direction. A guide pin is disposed along a central axis of the converging passage, the guide pin including an elongated body which tapers in the transport direction. A bobbin disposed downstream of the forming nozzle.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for forming a smoke filter including a forming nozzle through which a fibrous bundle material passes. The forming nozzle includes a converging passage, at least one first internal cavity in fluid connection with a first working fluid source, and a plurality of first holes fluidly connecting the at least one first internal cavity with a working surface of the forming nozzle. The plurality of first holes are further positioned and directed such that in passing through the plurality of first holes, the first working fluid conveys the fibrous bundle material through the forming nozzle in a transport direction. A guide pin is disposed along a central axis of the converging passage, the guide pin including an elongated body which tapers in the transport direction. A bobbin disposed downstream of the forming nozzle.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method which may facilitate the placing of rod-like articles, such as cigarettes, into waiting packaging, including a space into which articles may be inserted, this space described by a base and a plurality of side walls. A sheet of deformable material may then be secured to the apparatus, such as by vacuum force provided via vacuum openings located in the side walls, to further bound the space and provide support for the articles contained therein while the apparatus is transported or reoriented during the packaging method.