| abstract |
Apparatus incorporating a filter tow processing unit (218) adapted- to supply- filter tow to a continuous rod forming unit (212) includes an object insertion unit (214) that positions objects within the filter tow to manufacture a filter rod (220) containing objects (50,308,310,312,314) positioned at predetermined intervals. The apparatus also includes an upper hopper (360) that acts as a reservoir for a plurality of objects, and provides for supply of objects to a lower hopper (380) . The lower hopper (380) is shaped so that objects are stacked therein. The bottom of the lower hopper is shaped so as to cooperate with a portion of upper region of a rotating wheel (248) . The peripheral face of the rotating wheel (248) incorporates a plurality of spaced pockets (454) , each pocket (454) being of sufficient shape and size to accommodate one object. Objects within the lower hopper are aligned in a single line along a portion of the peripheral face (458) in the upper region of the rotating wheel (248) . |