Abstract: In a conveying system for a stream of rod-like articles in multi-layer stack formation, in which system the stream is moved along a path which is curved in a generally horizontal plane, suction is applied to the hub (30) of a turntable (10) for the stream, in order to draw the ends of the articles (16) against the hub and thereby help to maintain alignment of the articles during conveyance on the turntable. Further control, particularly for the uppermost articles, may be provided by a series of bristles (44) urged into contact with the articles on the turntable (10) by a guide rod (46). The system may be usefully employed in a filter cigarette assembling machine, for turning one of two streams of filter cigarettes issuing from the machine so that it may be merged with the other stream with the filter ends of the cigarettes in the two streams facing in the same direction.

Abstract: A reservoir for a bobbin changer for cigarette paper or a similar paper web includes, adjacent to an inlet (15) at which the paper (10) enters the reservoir, a movable deflector (20) arranged to engage and deflect the paper as it enters the reservoir (at least while paper is being accumulated in the reservoir) and to promote folding of the paper into loops in which the paper can safely be stored in the reservoir. The deflector is preferably pivoted and is arranged to be pushed away from the inlet by the accumulating loops of paper until the deflector reaches a nearly vertical position whereupon the bunched up loops of paper drop into the reservoir.