Abstract: A method of producing a wallet packet with a hinged lid, whereby a blank, having a first portion defining a body and a second portion defining a hinged lid of a relative wallet packet, is fed into a respective pocket, having a respective pair of side by side seats, of a packing wheel, so that the relative first portion defines two adjacent receptacles separated by a central rib; and wherein the pocket is fed through a loading station, where the two receptacles simultaneously receive respective wrapped groups of cigarettes; one of the two receptacles then being turned over onto the other to define the body of the relative wallet packet.

Abstract: A method and device for finishing cellophane-wrapped packets, whereby a succession of stacks, each defined by two superimposed packets having respective heat-shrink overwrappings, are fed successively by a conveyor wheel along a circular track extending through an unloading station, prior to reaching which the packets in each stack are parted in an axial direction with respect to the conveyor wheel, and are then fed, in a radial direction with respect to the conveyor wheel, along respective superimposed paths separated by a heating plate.

Abstract: A rigid package for tobacco articles, having a cup-shaped container having an open end; and a cup-shaped lid hinged to the container along a hinge to rotate, with respect to the container, between an open position and a closed position respectively opening and closing the open end; a mechanical sound member being provided to generate an audible sound as the lid is opened, and which is located astride the hinge.

Abstract: A method and device for transferring packets, whereby two parallel, superimposed rows of packets are fed in a horizontal direction to a first transfer station, and the lead packets in the two rows are then conveyed in a vertical direction from the first transfer station to a second transfer station, where the lead packets are parted in the vertical direction; at this point, the parted lead packets are transferred in the horizontal direction to a heat-shrink unit having two parallel, superimposed, substantially horizontal channels, each of which is engaged by a respective row of packets.

Abstract: A method and machine for producing a package with a coupon, whereby a product is fed to a packing station via a feed station, where the coupon is applied on to a top wall of the product; at the packing station, a sheet of packing material is wrapped about the product to enclose both the product and the coupon, and, between the feed station and the packing station, the coupon is subjected to an electric field and charged electrostatically, so as to adhere electrostatically to the product; the electric field is generated by at least one fixed guide, which is parallel to the path so as to face the top wall of the product, and comprises a number of conducting bodies having a high direct voltage with respect to an electric earth.

Abstract: Problematic noise levels in a hydraulic gear pump are overcome by exerting a radial force on the two shafts with which the gears are associated. The force has a direction and a strength that will combine with the resultant of the pressure forces and gear tooth contact forces, thereby eliminating backlash between the teeth. The system can be mechanical or hydraulic, and is incorporated either into the pump body or into pressure-balanced bearing blocks.