APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FORMING A VARIABLE SIZE CANNABIS JOINT

Abstract

There is provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette, in particular, consumer, home appliance machinery to automate a manual, laboured production of cannabis rod, commonly referred to as joints. The apparatus as herein described may provide an all-in-one solution for cannabis or smokable herbs storage, crushing, packing and rolling of custom sized joints, on command while minimizing maintenance and refill of consumables. In addition, the apparatus has the versatility to use a refillable cartridge as well as a single-use, nitrogen flushed and/or vacuum sealed cartridge, which may extend both shelf-life and the freshness of cannabis flower.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

There is provided an apparatus and method for forming a cigarette. In particular, there is provided an apparatus and method for forming a cannabis cigarette or joint.

Description of the Related Art

Cannabis consumption is predominantly done through grinding and/or burning dried cannabis flowers or buds, either by hand or through a number for methods and apparatuses. Cannabis cigarettes or joints may still be the most used method of enjoying unprocessed cannabis flower or bud once freshly cut. While new technological innovations have been focusing on vaporizing (vaping) cannabis flower or reduced oils, the experience or induced high may not be the same as that obtained by the full combustion of the unprocessed yet freshly sheared flower with all its oils and terpenes. Cannabis buds or flowers contain a multitude of terpenes and other cannabinoids that may not currently be fully understood. Consumption of these cannabinoids and terpenes, along with well-known tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) cannabinoids, appears to be paramount in providing many of the subtle therapeutic effects of cannabis flower. Many have also suffered lung injuries with continual vape usage. Therefore, fully combusting and smoking unprocessed cannabis flower still remains a desired method of enjoyment for those experienced with cannabis.

Rolling a freshly sheared cannabis flower may also desirable over pre-crushed methods for a number of reasons. Cannabis becomes dry easily if it is crushed long before use, thus taste more bitter and less desirable. Loss of flavor can also be associated with loss of terpenes; presence of terpenes is theorized to enhance the therapeutic effects and other subtle effects of cannabis flower. It is therefore generally preferred to only crush cannabis flower immediately before planned use. However, rolling a freshly crushed cannabis flower is a difficult task for many.

As such, a number of methods have been created through prior arts, mostly mechanical, to make this exercise less difficult. Almost all methods are mechanical and require a number of manual steps to achieve a finished joint. Known prior arts methods may require some manual labour for each rolled joint to refill consumables such as rolling paper and filter. There may be no solution elsewhere in the market that can automatically roll single joints without the immediate need to refill consumables for subsequent joints or other more difficult manual tasks.

In addition, the experience of smoking cannabis flower is further enhanced if the flower remains fresh by retaining some of its natural moistures. This experience is one where the user can better sense the aromas associated with each cannabis strain, potentially making better use of the oils and terpenes.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

There is provided, and it is an object to provide an apparatus disclosed herein that overcomes the above disadvantages, namely, an apparatus that may ensure near air-tight storage for the formation of single or multiple joints on-demand through a button or wireless communication while providing a number of other benefits including custom length and packed settings.

The apparatus and method herein described have been designed for end consumers as a home appliance with the purpose of storing, grinding and rolling individual cannabis containing joints or rods, on command, with enough supplies to accommodate multiple joint formations. This apparatus is also designed such that paper refills are not necessary for 2 to 200 (or more) joints or rods. Therefore, this apparatus may require minimal maintenance to provide an enhanced experience for end-users.

The apparatus as herein described is configured to, on user command, allow cannabis flowers to move from a cartridge thereof to a crushing main shearing chamber through a powered mechanism whereby initial cutting of large cannabis buds occurs through an initial shredder while depositing chunks of cannabis buds towards the main cylindrical shearing chamber, wherein a helical or partially helical blade rotates to simultaneously shear, break apart and transport cannabis flowers, while pressurizing crushed material towards an extrusion nozzle. As such, cannabis bud shearing may occur through any combination of the mentioned cutting members. Immediately after the nozzle extrusion, the crushed cannabis flower will fill a hollow space of paper being wound around the nozzle from a continuous roll of paper, through mechanisms described herein, for paper and its adhesive to overlap in a helical shape, from its filter base towards a finished cannabis containing rod or joint.

The apparatus as described herein will detail out start-to-finish motions for forming a cannabis containing joint on command.

There is accordingly provided an apparatus for automatic forming of a cigarette. The apparatus includes an extruder via which a smokable substance is selectively extruded. The apparatus includes an end member positioned to provide a space for the smokable substance so extruded. The apparatus is programed to provide a signal indicative of the extent to which the smokable substance is biased towards the end member, with the extruder being rendered inoperable upon said signal reaching a predetermined threshold.

There is also provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to another aspect. The apparatus includes an extruder via which a smokable substance is selectively extruded. The apparatus includes an end member positioned to provide a space for the smokable substance so extruded. The apparatus includes at least one actuator which enables a distance between the extruder and the end member to be adjusted. The apparatus includes a microprocessor in communication the extruder and the at least one actuator. The microprocessor causes the extent to which the extruder extrudes the smokable substance and the extent to which the end member and the extruder are spaced-apart from each other to be selectively adjusted based on end-user provided cigarette length and/or compactness data.

There is further provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to a yet another aspect. The apparatus includes an extruder configured to extrude a smokable substance towards an end member. The apparatus includes at least one sensor configured to provide a signal indicative of the extent to which the smokable substance is biased towards the end member. The apparatus includes a microprocessor which controls operation of the extruder and positioning of the end member relative to the extruder to adjust the compactness and length of the smokable substance so extruded in response to user input data correlated to the sensor.

There is also provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to an additional aspect. The apparatus includes an end member. The apparatus includes an extruder via which a smokable substance is extruded towards the end member. The apparatus includes at least one actuator which enables a distance of separation between the end member and the extruder to be selectively adjusted. The apparatus includes a paper wrapping assembly configured to wrap a paper about the smokable substance so extruded.

There is further provided a combination cutting and extrusion assembly according to another aspect. The assembly includes a barrel. The assembly includes an elongate member disposed within and rotatable relative to the barrel. The assembly includes a plurality of longitudinally and circumferentially spaced-apart protrusions coupled to and radially-extending outwards from a proximal portion of the elongate member. The assembly includes a longitudinally extending and helically arranged blade coupled to and extending radially outwards from a distal portion of the elongate member.

There is additionally provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to a yet another aspect. The apparatus includes a paper wrapping assembly via which paper is selectively extendable outwards therefrom so as to span at least in part an elongate portion of a smokable substance. The apparatus includes a gripping member shaped to selectively couple to an outer end of the paper. The paper wrapping assembly is arranged to unroll the paper at an angle relative to the gripping member. The apparatus includes at least one actuator selective actuation thereof causing the paper to rotate about the elongate portion of the smokable substance.

There is yet also provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to yet a further aspect. The apparatus includes an end member. The apparatus includes an extruder via which a smokable substance is biased towards the end member. The apparatus includes a paper wrapping assembly via which paper is selectively extendable outwards therefrom so as to span at least in part about the smokable substance so extruded. The end member is configured to couple to an outer end of the paper. The paper wrapping assembly is arranged to unroll the paper at an angle relative to the end member; and at least one actuator selective actuation thereof causing the paper to rotate about the elongate portion of the smokable substance.

There is further provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to yet an additional aspect. The apparatus includes an extruder via which a smokable substance is biased towards an end member. A sensor is operatively coupled to the end member. The apparatus includes a paper dispenser via which paper is selectively extendable outwards therefrom to couple with the end member and so as to span at least in part the smokable substance so extruded. The apparatus includes at least one actuator which selectively causes the end member to rotate relative to the paper dispenser. The apparatus includes a microprocessor in communication with the extruder. Actuation of the at least one actuator causes the paper to extend about the smokable substance as the smokable substance is extruded. When the microprocessor determines that the actuator has at least reached a pre-determined threshold, the microprocessor is configured to render the extruder inoperable.

There is also provided a smokable substance cartridge shaped to be received within an apparatus for forming a cigarette. The cartridge includes a chamber having an interior shaped to receive a smokable substance therewithin. The cartridge includes a one-way valve in fluid communication with the interior of the chamber and configured to enable selective removable of fluid from the chamber. The cartridge includes a locking mechanism having a locked position in which access to the interior of the chamber. The locking mechanism is configured to move from the locked position to an unlocked position, in which access to the interior of the chamber is enabled by the apparatus, upon the cartridge being positioned within the apparatus.

There is further provided a smokable substance cartridge according to another aspect. The smokable substance cartridge includes a chamber having an interior shaped to receive a smokable substance therewithin. The smokable substance cartridge includes nitrogen gas disposed within the chamber so as to inhibit presence of oxygen therewithin. The smokable substance cartridge includes a seal configured to inhibit oxygen from entering within the interior and inhibit piercing thereof until the cartridge is positioned at least in part within the apparatus.

There is additionally provided an apparatus for forming a cigarette according to another aspect. The apparatus includes a first set of one or more rotating blades via which smokable material selectively passes through. The apparatus includes an extruder via which the smokable material from the first set of one or more blades is received. The extruder includes a second set of one or more rotating blades and outputs an elongate portion of smokable material. The apparatus includes a paper wrapping assembly configured to extend paper about the elongate portion of smokable material so extruded.

There is further provided a method of forming a cigarette. The method includes extruding a smokable substance via an extruder. The method includes positioning an end member so as to provide a space for the smokable substance so extruded. The end member includes a pressure sensor coupled thereto. The method includes wrapping paper about the smokable substance so extruded. The method includes rendering the extruder inoperable upon the sensor and/or actuator reaching a predetermined threshold.

There is also provided method of forming a cigarette according to another aspect. The method includes receiving end-user provided length and compactness data for the cigarette. The method includes extruding a smokable substance via an extruder towards an end member having a pressure sensor operatively coupled thereto. The method includes adjusting positioning of the end member via an actuator based on the length data. The method includes rendering the extruder inoperable upon the actuator reaching a predetermined threshold. The method includes wrapping paper about the smokable substance so extruded.

There is additionally provided a method to form a cigarette according to a further aspect. The method includes storing uncut plant matter within a cigarette making machine. The method includes receiving a user command and in response thereto automatically cutting, shearing and extruding sheared plant matter out of a nozzle via the cigarette making machine. The method includes thereafter automatically wrapping paper about sheared plant matter so extruded in rod form.

It is emphasized that the invention relates to all combinations of the above features, even if these are recited in different claims.

Further aspects and example embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or described in the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate non-limiting example embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a joint making machine at a home position, according to one exemplary non-limiting embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view thereof;

FIG. 4 is a rear, right side perspective view of a single-use cannabis cartridge for the joint making machine of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a rear, right side perspective view of a refillable cannabis cartridge for the joint making machine of FIG. 1, with the cartridge being shown in an open position;

FIG. 7 is a front, left side perspective view of protrusions and a blade of an extruder of the joint making machine of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a rear, right side, top perspective view of a joint fork assembly of the joint making machine of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along lines 10-10 of the joint fork assembly of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a rear, right side, top perspective view of a paper wrapping assembly of the joint making machine of FIG. 1, with the paper wrapping assembly being shown in an open configuration for replenishment of rolling and filter paper, with FIG. 11 also showing a bearing and gear system via which the paper wrapping assembly rotatably couples to the rest of the joint making machine;

FIG. 12 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along lines 13-13 of a paper wrapping assembly of the joint making machine seen in FIG. 1;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the joint making machine of FIG. 1 in a rollout position, with cannabis being extruded from the joint making machine and the paper wrapping assembly shown in the process of extending about an elongate portion of the cannabis so extruded, with a joint shown in the process of being formed thereby;

FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along lines 15-15 of the joint making machine of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a sectional view taken along lines 16-16 of the joint making machine of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a front elevation view of the joint making machine of FIG. 14;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the joint making machine of FIG. 17, with the joint fork assembly extending outwards from the rest of the joint making machine and a rolled cannabis joint coupled to and extending outwards therefrom;

FIG. 19 is a top plan view of a joint making machine at a home position, according to another exemplary non-limiting embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a front, top, left side perspective view thereof, with paper from a paper wrapping assembly of the joint making machine shown in the initial process of wrapping around prongs of the joint fork assembly of the joint making assembly;

FIG. 21 is a sectional view taken along lines 21-21 of the joint making machine of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a sectional view of sealed container being ruptured by mechanism within the machine taken along lines 22-22 of the joint making machine of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a rear, left side, top perspective view of the joint making machine of FIG. 21, with the housing thereof being partially removed to reveal interior components thereof;

FIG. 24 is a sectional, top, front, left perspective of the joint making machine of FIG. 19, with the extruder thereof aligned with the joint fork assembly and in the process of forming a joint;

FIG. 25 is a rear, right side, top perspective view of a paper wrapping assembly of the joint making machine of FIG. 19, with the paper wrapping assembly being shown in an open configuration for replenishment of rolling and filter paper, with FIG. 19 also showing a bearing and gear system via which the paper wrapping assembly rotatably couples to the rest of the joint making machine;

FIG. 26 is a sectional view taken along lines 26-26 of the joint making machine of FIG. 19;

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the joint making machine of FIG. 19 in a rollout position, with cannabis being extruded from the joint making machine and the paper wrapping assembly shown in the process of extending about an elongate portion of the cannabis so extruded, with a joint shown in the process of being formed thereby;

FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken along lines 28-28 of the joint making machine of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a front elevation view of the joint making machine of FIG. 27; and

FIG. 30 is a front elevation view of the joint making machine of FIG. 29, with the joint fork assembly extending outwards from the rest of the joint making machine and a rolled cannabis joint coupled to and extending outwards therefrom.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Throughout the following description, specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced without these particulars. In other instances, well known elements have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive sense.

Referring to the drawings and first to FIG. 1, there is shown an apparatus for forming a cigarette, in this example an herbal cigarette, in this case a cannabis joint, with the apparatus being in this example a joint making machine 20. The joint making machine has a housing 24 that extends along a longitudinal axis 21. Joint making machine 20 comprises two coupled sub-portions 27 and 29 that are generally cylindrical in shape; however this is not strictly required. The joint making machine has a top 28, a bottom 30, a left side 32 and a right side 34 spaced-apart from the left side thereof, though this is not strictly required. The sides of joint making machine extend between the top and bottom of the joint making machine. The joint making machine includes a rear 36 and a front 38 spaced-apart from the rear thereof. The front and rear of the joint making machine extend between sides 32 and 34 and top 28 and bottom 30 and are circular in this example, though this is not strictly required.

As seen in FIG. 16, joint making machine 20 includes a first chamber 40 within interior 42 of sub-portion 27 of housing 24. Chamber 40 may be referred to as a cannabis flower storage area. Joint making machine includes a cartridge 46 shaped to be received within the first chamber. The cartridge is shaped to receive a herbal substance, in this example cannabis 44 within interior 45 thereof. Cartridge 46 may be referred to as a single-use sealed cannabis container, smokable substance pod, smokable substance cartridge or cannabis cartridge. The cartridge is selectively removable from housing 24, although a non-removable cartridge or chamber may also be used in other embodiments. Cartridge 46 is shaped to be received within and/or selectively couple to joint making machine 20. In this example, the joint making machine includes a cartridge cover 48 which pivotally couples to housing 24 via hinge 50. The cartridge cover has a closed position seen in FIG. 16 and may be selectively opened in the direction shown by arrow 51, to enable access to interior 42 via slot 43 and to position cartridge 46 within first chamber 40 and housing 24.

As seen in FIG. 4, cartridge 46 includes a one-way valve and seal mechanism 52 in fluid communication with interior 45 of the cartridge and configured to enable selective removal of fluid therefrom. A vacuum nozzle fits within the valve and seal mechanism on top of the container. However, this is not strictly required and a re-fillable cartridge 46′ without valve and seal mechanism 52, as seen in FIG. 6, may be used in other embodiments.

The experience of smoking cannabis may be further enhanced if the cannabis flower remains fresh by retaining some of its natural moistures. This experience is one where the user can better sense the aromas associated with each cannabis strain, potentially making better use of the oils and terpenes. To achieve the freshness of the cannabis flower, nitrogen, an inert gas, is flushed into the single use cannabis packaging when the packaging is upside down and sliding door 60 is opened for cannabis packaging, as shown by arrow 49 seen in FIG. 5, to push out the less dense oxidizing agent, oxygen, once cannabis has been deposited into the cartridge during packaging. Cartridge 46 is then be closed and sealed to extend the time in which cannabis can be kept fresh. Such a packaging system may enhance freshness for the user, extend shelf-life for producers and reduce the likelihood for cannabis to form mold. Although no set shelf-life has been determined for dried cannabis flower, as cannabis flower is a plant-based substance, it may be susceptible to similar oxidation degradation as with any other plant or flower, especially in undesirable conditions. Therefore, it may be important to store cannabis flower in a sealed and dark place for longer lasting freshness to enhance the user experience. Joint making machine 20 thus provides the user with the versatility to use a refillable cartridge 46′ seen in FIG. 6 as well as a single-use, nitrogen flushed and/or vacuum sealed cartridge 46 seen in FIG. 4, which may extend both shelf-life and the freshness of cannabis flower.

As seen in FIG. 21, the cartridge includes an un-locking mechanism 54 with single-use pod being in locked position in which access to interior 47 of the cartridge is inhibited due to vacuumed seal. The un-locking mechanism includes a first of a male member and a female member, in this example a female member 56. Joint making machine 20 includes a second of the male member and the female member, in this example a male member, in this example a seal rupturing rod 58 shaped to be received by or pierce the female member as seen in FIG. 22. Engagement of the female member with the male member causes the locking mechanism to move from the locked or sealed position to an unlocked or unsealed position.

Cartridge 46 is configured to inhibit access to interior 47 of the cartridge until the cartridge is positioned within joint making machine 20, at which point access to the interior of the chamber is enabled. The cartridges are thus configured to only able to be unsealed through inserting the cartridge into joint making device 20 or immediately before inserting into the cannabis rolling device. This feature serves as both a child protection feature, necessary for cannabis packaging, as well as assurance that the cannabis flower is kept most fresh until planned use, thus enhancing user experience.

As seen in FIG. 21, cartridge 46 includes a door 60 that inhibits access to interior 47 thereof in the locked position thereof. The door is moveable or slidable relative to body 62 of the cartridge in this example to an open position upon the locking mechanism moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. Door 60 is thus initially closed and disengages from body 62 of cartridge 46 subsequent to rupturing rod 58 breaking vacuum seal 59. Once the seal has been broken, or not required to be broken if reusable container is used, a mechanism, in this example protrusion 57 slides door 60 open while user is pushing the container into place, thus enabling joint making machine 20 to access cannabis 44. Once the cannabis containing container has been inserted into the slot, the slot mechanism will first break seal 59 with rod 58, then slide door 60 open for cannabis to be gravity assisted towards initial shredders 66 and 68.

As seen in FIG. 16, joint making machine 20 has a second chamber 64 in this example positioned below first chamber 40. The joint making machine includes at least one and in this example a first pair of rotating blades or crushers 66 and 68 rotatably coupled to housing 24. Crushers 66 and 68 are in fluid communication with and positioned between first chamber 40 and second chamber 64. Each crusher includes a plurality of radially-extending vanes, in this example four said vanes 66a, 66b, 66c and 66d, with the crushers receiving cannabis between the vanes. The vanes of opposite crushers come together as the crushes rotate in opposite directions 70 and 72, causing the portions of cannabis 44 to crush against each other, break up into smaller portions as a result thereof, with the smaller portions thereafter being directed to second chamber 64. In this exemplary non-limiting embodiment crushers 66 and 68 are thus rotated in opposing circular direction are used to pull cannabis material inwards and towards the second chamber while resulting in some breaking apart of large chunks of cannabis flower or bud. The crushers are driven an electric motors 61 as seen in FIG. 23, and computer controllers placed within housing 24 seen in FIG. 16. The flow of cannabis 44 into second chamber 64 is thus controlled by way of blades or mechanical crushers 66 and 68 and the speed of rotation thereof.

In other embodiments cannabis 44 may be gravity assisted to the second chamber without the need of crushers. In another embodiment, a single rotating blade or crusher may be used to control at least in part the flow rate of cannabis from first chamber 40 to second chamber 64, while initially breaking apart or crushing the cannabis flowers at least in part as they are pulled into the second chamber.

Referring to FIG. 28, joint making machine 20 includes a combination cutting and extrusion assembly, in this example an extruder 74. The extruder is configured to extrude outwards therefrom broken up portions of cannabis 76 from the shredders 96, 66 and 68 and output an elongate portion 78 of cannabis that is cylindrical in shape in this example. Extruder 74 includes a barrel 80 with a proximal end 82, an inlet 84 adjacent the proximal end thereof, a distal end 86 spaced-apart from the proximal end thereof, and an outlet or nozzle 88 adjacent the distal end thereof in this example. Joint making machine 20 has a rolling or formation zone 87 adjacent nozzle 88. The barrel includes a proximal portion 90 that extends from proximal end 82 thereof towards distal end 86 thereof. The proximal portion of the barrel is tubular in shape in this example. Barrel 80 includes a distal portion 92 that extends from distal end 86 thereof towards proximal end 82 thereof. The distal portion of the barrel is frustoconical in outer shape in this example.

Extruder 74 includes an elongate member 94 disposed within and rotatable relative to barrel 80. As seen in FIG. 8, the elongate member has a proximal end 96 and a distal end 98 spaced-apart from the proximal end thereof, and a longitudinal axis 99 extending between the ends thereof. Elongate member 94 includes a proximal portion 100 extending from the proximal end towards distal end thereof. The proximal portion of the elongate member is tapered at least in part in this example. Proximal end portion 102 of elongate member 94 adjacent proximal end 96 is outwardly concave and in this example frustoconical in shape. The proximal end portion of the elongate member may be referred to as a first tapered portion of the elongate member. Elongate member 94 includes a distal portion 104 extending from distal end 98 towards proximal end 96 thereof. The distal portion of elongate member is tapered in this example in a direction 106 extending from the proximal end towards the distal end of the elongate member. Distal portion 104 of elongate member 94 may be referred to as a second tapered portion of the elongate member. Proximal portion 100 of the elongate member is cylindrical in shape in a direction extending from the distal portion of the elongate member towards proximal end portion 102 of the elongate member.

Extruder 74 includes a plurality of longitudinally and circumferentially spaced-apart protrusions 108 coupled to and radially-outwards extending from proximal portion 100 of elongate member 94. The protrusions are in fluid communication with inlet 84 of barrel 80 seen in FIG. 28. Proximal portion 90 of barrel extends about protrusions 108 and proximal portion 100 of elongate member 94 seen in FIG. 8. Still referring to FIG. 8, each protrusion has a proximal end 110 coupled to the elongate member and a distal end 112 spaced-apart from the proximal end thereof. The distal ends of protrusions 108 are outwardly convex in this example. The protrusions have lengths that are substantially equal in size in this example.

Each protrusion 108 is wedge-shaped or triangular in lateral cross-section in this example. Each protrusion has a first biasing surface 114 that faces towards distal portion 104 of elongate member 94 at least in part. Each first biasing surface is radially-outwardly extending and outwardly concave in this example, with each protrusion being outwardly concave at least in part in lateral cross-section in this example. Each protrusion 108 has a second biasing surface 115 that is generally radially outwardly and forward facing. Each second biasing surface is radially-outwardly extending and outwardly convex in this example. Each second biasing surface 115 extends at an acute angle β relative to its corresponding first biasing surface 114. Each protrusion 108 has a rear surface 117 that generally faces proximal end 96 of elongate member 94 and extends between corresponding biasing surfaces 114 and 115.

Protrusions 108 are arranged in one or more helical formations or arrangements having a helix angle α_P in this example. The protrusions may be considered as a first helical blade portion with a series of circumferentially spaced-apart and helically arranged rows of apertures extending therethrough.

As seen in FIG. 7, extruder 74 includes in this example a plurality of cutting members 116. Each cutting member couples to a respective protrusion 108 and extends radially outwards in this example. Each cutting member 116 extends between a corresponding first biasing surface 114 and rear surface 117 of the protrusion. The cutting members are configured to promote a cutting or shearing of portions of the cannabis.

Still referring to FIG. 7, extruder 74 includes a longitudinally extending and helically arranged blade 118 coupled to and extending radially outwards from distal portion 104 of elongate member 94. Nozzle 88 of barrel 80 seen in FIG. 28 is in fluid communication with the blade. Distal portion 92 of the barrel extends about blade 118 and extends about distal portion 104 of elongate member 94 seen in FIG. 8. The distal portion of barrel 80 seen in FIG. 28 thus tapers in direction 106 seen in FIG. 8 extending from proximal portion 100 of the elongate member towards distal portion 102 of the elongate member. Still referring to FIG. 8, blade 118 tapers in direction 106 extending from proximal portion 100 of elongate member 94 towards distal end 98 of the elongate member. The blade and distal portion 104 of elongate member 94 may be said to comprise an extrusion screw, which may in the alternative be referred to as on its own the extruder.

Blade 118 includes a longitudinally-extending proximal end portion 120 which couples to the elongate member and a longitudinally-extending distal end portion 122 spaced-apart from the proximal end portion thereof. The distance D between elongate member 94 and the distal end portion of blade 118 decreases in direction 106 extending from proximal end 96 of the elongate member towards distal end 98 of the elongate member.

Longitudinally spaced-apart adjacent portions 118a and 118b of blade are more spaced-apart from each other relative, in this case spaced by length L_F, compared to longitudinally spaced-apart adjacent protrusions 108a and 108b in this example, which in this case are spaced-apart by length L_P though this is not strictly required. Protrusions 108 extend outwards from elongate member 94 at a greater pitch relative to blade 118 in this example, though this is not strictly required. The blade has a helix angle α_B, with the blade extending outwards from elongate member 94 at a more acute angle relative to that of the protrusions in this example. Helix angle α_P of protrusions is greater than helix angle α_B of blade 118 in this example. Protrusions 108 and blade 118 may be partially or fully helical in shape.

Referring to FIG. 16, once cannabis 44 has been pulled into second chamber 64, elongate member 94 will selectively rotate via an actuator, in this example dedicated electric motor 124 to which the elongate member is coupled. Extruder 74 is responsible for at the following key functions of joint making machine 20: 1) to fully or at least partially cut cannabis flower via cutting members 116; 2) to transport material from crusher region 67 towards the joint rolling or formation zone 87; 3) to promote formation of cannabis material of a desired diameter corresponding to a joint diameter; and 4) creating a pressure to bias the cannabis material outwards from nozzle 88. To achieve this, blade 118 and barrel 80 tapper by an acute angle θ relative to longitudinal axis 99, in this example with angle θ being 5 to 40 degrees, in a conical form towards desired joint diameter JD. Protrusions 108 have an angle set to promote a forward momentum as materials are cut. This angle, along with overall helical shape of blade 118, provide forward momentum to crushed the cannabis flower as elongate member 94 rotates about its axis 99. The tapered part of the helical blade 118 and distal portion 92 of barrel 80 promote extrusion of freshly cut cannabis flower towards a desired joint diameter JD while creating pressure necessary for a packed joint to be formed.

As seen in FIG. 28, joint making machine 20 includes an end member assembly, in this example a joint fork assembly 126 positioned to provide a space or distance of separation 127 for cannabis 44 so extruded. The joint fork assembly may be referred to as a stopping member assembly. As seen in FIG. 10, joint fork assembly 126 has a proximal end 130, a distal end 132 spaced-apart from the proximal end thereof, a longitudinal axis 133 extending between the ends thereof, and a housing 134 extending from the proximal end towards the distal end thereof. The joint fork assembly includes an end member, in this example a bifurcated member 136, which may be referred to as a joint fork or gripping member. The bifurcated member includes a base 138 with a pair of prongs 140 and 142 which extends outwards therefrom towards distal end 132 of joint fork assembly 126. A magnet 155 is placed in base 138 that enables positional accuracy of the gap between 140 and 142 and paper dispenser 158 when in home position where the magnet is situated above a hall effect sensor 173, as seen in FIG. 21. Referring to FIG. 10, bifurcated member 136 includes a shaft 144 that extends outwards from base 138 in a direction opposite the prongs. The shaft has a length L_S which is longer than the length of L_M of the stepper motor. Shaft 144 has a diameter Ds that may fit through the bored hole 152 of the stepper motor's drive shaft 154 in this example; however, this is not strictly required.

Base 138 of bifurcated member 136 is resiliently coupled to mount 146, with resilient member, in this example coil spring 148 biasing the bifurcated member outwards. A depressing force 156 exerted on bifurcated member 136 opposite that of the coil spring, enables the bifurcated member to retract linearly up to a distance DB. Joint fork assembly 126 includes an actuator, in this example a stepper motor 128 that slidably receives therethrough and coupled to shaft 144. The motor is configured to selectively rotate bifurcated member 136 including prongs 140 and 142 thereof via the shaft.

The joint's pressure during roll out or extrusion (or the extent to which the cannabis is pressed within the joint or compacted) is controllable via a sensor during the extrusion phase in this non-limiting embodiment. Referring to FIG. 28, first points of contact of the crushed cannabis 44 extruded from extruder 74 via nozzle 88 comprise prongs 140 and 142 of bifurcated member 136. This applies force to a force pressure sensor 150 seen in FIG. 10 located adjacent proximal end of housing 134. However, this is not strictly required and other adaptations of sensors, pressure sensors or otherwise, may be employed in other embodiments. Pressure sensor 150 in this embodiment is located behind the stepper motor 128 that is rotating bifurcated member 136 as the joint grows horizontally. The stepped motor may be referred to as a second actuator. Shaft 144 of bifurcated member 136 transfers axial pressure force to the pressure sensor. Pressure sensor 150 thus couples to the bifurcated member. Referring to FIG. 10, bifurcated member 136 is spring loaded to mount 146 via coil spring 148 for sensor 150 to maintain an unpressurized equilibrium at standby. In this non-limiting embodiment, shaft 144 is long enough to go through bored shaft 154 of motor 128 to transfer axial force 156 exerted by helical blade 118 buildup of crushed cannabis flower, to the pressure force sensor 150 behind the electric stepper motor 128. The force pressure sensor, or other adaptations of flow/pressure sensors, may be comprise the main feedback to control and coordinate a number of motor speeds responsible for perceived continual growth rate of the joint and pressure thereof.

The pressure sensor is configured to convey or emit a signal 151 indicative of the extent to which pressure exists between extruder 74 and bifurcated member 136 in FIG. 28, during rollout phase. Referring back to FIG. 10, the pressure sensor is also configured to convey a signal indicative of the extent to which cannabis 44 biases against bifurcated member 136. Upon the sensor 150 reaching a predetermined threshold of maximum pressure, paper winding assembly 126 is retracted away from the extruder 74, along with other actuators programed to maintain speeds needed for perceived joint growth, result in maintaining joint pressure within a desired predetermined range throughout rollout phase.

As seen in FIG. 27, joint making machine 20 includes a paper feed component 158 that when combined with joint fork component 126, it may be referred to as a paper winding assembly. The paper feed component is configured to extend a paper 160 about the cannabis 44 as it is extruded, while joint fork 136 pulls the paper as stepper motor 128 spins about its axis. The rotation of the joint fork 136 is proportional to increasing distance between it and extrusion 74. The combination of these components results in the paper wrapping assembly. As seen in FIGS. and 26, paper feed assembly 158 includes a housing 162 comprising two halves 157 and 159 pivotally coupled together via hinge 167 and that may be selectively opened. The housing is shaped to mount a roll of paper 160 therewithin, with the roll of paper being rotatably received via shaft 164 of motor 171. Paper feed assembly 158 is rotatable relative to housing 24 of joint making machine 20 seen in FIG. 1 via a gear assembly 166 seen in FIG. 25 in this example. The gear assembly includes a ring gear 168 to which housing 162 of paper wrapping assembly 158 rotatably couples via bearings 169 seen in FIG. 21. Referring back to FIG. 25, gear assembly 166 includes a planetary gear 170 that engages with the ring gear. As seen in FIG. 12, joint making machine 20 includes an actuator, in this example a stepper motor 172 with a drive shaft 174 coupled to the planet gear. Selective rotation of the stepper motor causes paper feed assembly 158 to move from an initial or home position seen in FIG. 1 to a joint rolling phase position seen in FIG. 27.

As seen in FIG. 27, paper 160 is selectively extendable outwards from paper feed component 158 so as to span at least in part elongate portion 78 of cannabis 44. Paper wrapping assembly is arranged to unroll the paper at a non-perpendicular angle Ω relative to joint fork assembly 126 and axes 26, 99 and 133. Paper 160 includes a water activated adhesive 161 along a distal end portion 163 thereof. However, this is not strictly required and the adhesive may be arranged along the paper in other patterns and locations in other examples. Alternatively, an adhesive may be used that requires no moisture.

As seen in FIG. 1, joint making machine 20 may include a user interface 176. Alternatively, the user interface may be a smart phone operated one where a graphic user interface may provide detailed adjustments for desired degree of compactness of the cigarette or joint to be formed. User interface 176 or smart phone enabled interface may also receive input regarding a desired length of the joint, or desired joint length data.

As seen in FIG. 27, joint making machine 20 includes at least one actuator, in this example a linear actuator 177, in this case in the form a lead screw 178 and linear bearing and guide 180, with the lead screw being motor-driven and the linear bearings couples to the base of the joint fork component 126. The linear actuator may be referred to as a first actuator. Joint fork assembly 126 couples to lead screw 178 in this example and has a first position or paper-gripping position seen in FIG. 21, in which the joint fork assembly is axially offset from axis 26 and positioned adjacent and below nozzle 88. The joint fork component is configured to be moveable via the lead screw and linear guide from the first, home position to a position seen in FIG. 21 in which axis 133 of joint fork assembly 126 is coaxial with axis 26 of joint making machine 20. The joint fork component is configured to be moveable from the second position to a third position, shown in dotted lines as 182 in FIG. 28, in which the joint fork assembly remains coaxial with the joint making machine but in which the joint fork assembly is further axially spaced from nozzle 88. The second and third positions may be referred to as paper rolling positions in which bifurcated member 136 of joint fork assembly 126 aligns with elongate portion 78 of cannabis 44. Selective actuation of linear actuator 177 varies the distance of separation between the extruder and joint fork assembly 126 and thus a length of the cigarette or joint.

As seen in FIG. 1, joint making machine 20 includes a microprocessor 184. The microprocessor is in communication with extruder 74, user interface 176, sensor 150 and the various actuators of the joint making machine including linear actuator 177 seen in FIG. 28. Referring back to FIG. 1, the microprocessor is configured to cause the extruder to be inoperable upon the microprocessor determining that the joint has reached a predetermined length. Microprocessor 184 is in communication with user interface 176 and may be in wireless communications with user smart-phones and is configured to determine a range of predetermined thresholds of sensor 150 in response thereto, depending on whether the user wants a slow-burning compact joint or a more loosely packed normal-burn joint, for example. Microprocessor 184 correlates the desired compactness data with the predetermined pressure threshold and commands the linear actuator 177 to retreat once pressure has exceeded said thresholds.

The microprocessor is configured to also cause distance of separation 127 seen in FIG. 28 between extruder 74 and joint fork assembly 126 to alter in response user-inputted desired joint length data while using pressure sensor as the que to increase length thus avoiding over-compaction. Microprocessor 184 thus receives desired compactness and length of joint data and controls positioning of joint fork assembly 126 via linear actuator 177 and operation of the extruder to adjust the compactness and length of the smokable substance so extruded in response to user input data correlated to the pressure sensor 150. The microprocessor causes the extent to which extruder 74 extrudes cannabis 44 and the extent to which joint fork assembly 126 and the extruder are spaced-apart from each other to be selectively adjusted based on end-user provided joint length and/or compactness data. Microprocessor 184 thus causes the extent to which the extruder extrudes cannabis 44 and the extent to which the joint fork assembly and the extruder are spaced-apart from each other to be adjusted based on end-user provided joint length and compactness data. In one example, microprocessor determines when pressure sensor 150 reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold in a first instance and in response thereto causes linear actuator 177 to alter the distance of separation between the joint fork assembly 126 and extruder 74 proportionate to the desired length data.

In operation and referring to FIG. 1, once a user command to roll a new joint has been received via user interface 176 (which may be a remote server, mobile phone or otherwise in communication with microprocessor 184), a sequence of electric motor driven motions take place. Initially, prior to any cannabis flower shearing, paper feed assembly 158 will extrude rolling paper 160 and filter paper 165 as seen in FIG. 26.

The initial paper feed sequence purpose is to form the filtered end of the cannabis containing joint or rod around the joint fork 136. This sequence will take place in the default home position of the machine seen in FIGS. 20 and 21, when paper feed component's paper extrusion is aligned with gap 141 extending between prongs 140 and 142. This sequence of motors and parts in motion have the purpose of feeding both rolling paper and a filter into what will become the beginning of the joint formation. Filter paper 165 and rolling paper 160 of FIG. 26, will feed through paper feed component 158 by way of electric motors, in this example small stepper motors 186 and 171 respectively located within the paper feed assembly. The filters 165 will be in predetermined dimensions specific for the machine and placed on a tray which enables contact with filter wheel 187 as seen in FIG. 26. The rotation of said wheel will propel filter paper 165 towards a ramp 188, in this embodiment. The filter will thus be guided towards the main paper wheels 164. Subsequently, the paper and filter will be extruded as motor 171 drives wheels 164. Therefore, the filter paper wheel 187 is only responsible to exert enough rotational force to propel one filter paper 165 towards main wheels 164. The motors are in communication with and selectively controlled and actuated via microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1. Once both rolling paper 160 and filter paper 165 have been fed through gap 141 of bifurcated member 136 seen in FIG. 20, the microprocessor causes the bifurcated member to rotate via its stepper motor 128 seen in FIG. 10. Paper feed assembly 158 seen in FIG. 20 remains stationary in its home position while feeding additional rolling paper to account for bifurcated member's rotations until the filter and paper have been wound by and about prongs of 136. Bifurcated member 136 winds the paper around it with some tension as its stepper motor 128 seen in FIG. 10 causes it to rotate, while adequate paper is being fed by paper wrapping assembly 158 to account for the rotations of the bifurcated member.

Once enough paper 160 and filter paper 165 has been wound around the bifurcated member, joint fork assembly 126 begins its horizontal retreat and track 199 assisted vertical climb to reach axial alignment with extrusion nozzle 88 seen in FIG. 28. This track assisted climb is achieved through a base 234 whereon joint fork component 126 rests on its pivot arms 235a and 235b with pinions on each end as seen on FIG. 9. The base 234 has small wheels 236 which rolls on track 199 as seen in FIG. 28, this part is coupled to the first actuator by way of a linear bearings 22 within base 234 and cylindrical rod 21 on either side of the joint fork component 126, as seen in FIG. 27.

As the joint fork component begins to retreat away from nozzle 88, microprocessor 184 actuates stepper motor 172 seen in FIG. 25 to rotate paper wrapping assembly 158 around extrusion nozzle 88 seen in FIG. 27 via ring gear 166 and planetary gear 170. The rotation of paper wrapping assembly may be as small as 45 degrees and up to a continuous rotation around the extrusion zone; however, in this non-limiting embodiment, the paper feed assembly will rotate from its default home position seen in FIG. 1, by roughly 190 degrees as seen in FIG. 27 and remain at that position for the remainder of rollout phase.

As seen in FIG. 26, joint making machine 20 includes a water reservoir 190, a conduit 192 in fluid communication with the water reservoir and a pump, in this example an electric motor controlled peristaltic pump 194 seen in FIG. 23 in communication with microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1. Referring back to FIG. 25, water from the water reservoir is selectively directed via the pump towards distal edge portion 163 of paper 160 to active adhesive 161. During this stage, the adhesive may be activated by supplying a small amount of water from the water reservoir by way of pump 194. Moisture activated adhesive 161 may provide further stability for the outer layers of the newly formed filtered tip of the joint being made.

Water pump 194 is activated via microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1 when paper feed assembly 158 is in its rolling phase position seen in FIG. 27 as the paper is extruded from paper feed assembly. The pump may be activated to supply water to a small water bowl on the edge of the paper feed assembly; however, other arrangements may be used.

Referring back to FIG. 26, either in or at the edge of the small water bowl will be a water presence sensor 205: in this adaptation, two wires 201 and 203 are used to detect the presence of water once water fills the gap between the two wires to allow for electric current to flow. The flow of electric current between these wires in combination with a computer control system, in this case microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1, is used to detect the presence of water as water bridges the gap between the wires. If rolling paper 160 has a moisture activated adhesive 161, it will be necessary to wet the natural gum or other moisture activated adhesives on the rolling paper's edge 163. Consequently, the water presence sensor in the form of wires 201 and 203, along with pump 194 will ensure the presence of water along the paper's edge during continuous rollout of the joint.

Referring to FIG. 28, as diced cannabis 44 exit extruder 74 with pressure from nozzle 88, the extent to which the cannabis is biased outwards is measured by pressure force sensor 150 and this pressure reading will be the primary control parameter of horizontal movement of the joint fork assembly 126. Given that axial or horizontal movement of the joint fork assembly away from the extrusion zone 87 will reduce pressure applied to sensor 150, the growth rate of the joint will be governed via microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1 by maintaining pressure, within a desirable range, between extrusion nozzle 88 and bifurcated member 136. Pressure requirements can be set to one or more desired range settings via user interface 176 seen in FIG. 1. With adjustments in settings, the user may adjust pressure of crushed cannabis within the joint to experience either a packed ‘slow burn’ setting or less packed ‘normal burn’ setting, although other settings may be prescribed. Axial or horizontal movement of linear actuator 177 seen in FIG. 28 will occur when the value range of pressure goes beyond unacceptable pressure value against sensor 150, for set pressure settings. When pressure within joint 210, in this non-limiting embodiment, transferred to the sensor by shaft 144 through the bored shaft 152 of stepper motor 128 seen in FIG. 10, exceeds a desired pressure value, microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1 will thus cause the joint fork assembly 126 to retreat horizontally and away from nozzle 88, while bifurcated member 136 rotates to maintain a roughly consistent pitch of the overlapping helical paper 160 as the paper is wound around the extruded freshly cut smokable herbs.

Stepper motor 128 is selectively actuated by microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1, which causes paper 160 to rotate about elongate portion 78 of cannabis 44 as it is extruded from extruder 74. The stepper motor when actuated thus causes a first of paper feed assembly 158 and joint fork assembly 126 to rotate relative to a second of the paper wrapping assembly and the gripping member. Actuation of stepper motor 128 causes paper 160 to extend about nozzle outer wall and cannabis as the cannabis is extruded. The paper is thus selectively extendable outwards from paper feed assembly 158 so as to span at least in part about elongate portion 78 of cannabis 44 so extruded to make up the paper wrapping assembly. This results in growth of the rolled joint.

As the joint grows, a number of motors are in motion based on the growth rate prescribed by sensor 150, the desired diameter of the joint and pitch of the overlapping helical rolled paper, in this embodiment the pressure sensor or other sensors in other adaptations. The motors in motion and selectively controlled by microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1 include motors 61 associated with crushers 66 and 68 seen in FIG. 23 that feed additional semi-crushed cannabis to second chamber 64, motor 124 turning elongate member 94, protrusions 108 and blade 118 and supplying additional crushed material through nozzle 88, paper feed motor 171 seen in FIG. 28 and FIG. 25 respectively; stepper motor 128 seen in FIG. 10 providing tension around the rolled joint concurrently with required rotations for perceived horizontal growth of the joint during its horizontal retreat. All motors synchronize rotation, with reasonable margins of error, to wind a continuous roll of rolling paper 160 around nozzle 88 exterior and towards the circumference of extruded, elongate portion 78 of crushed cannabis 44 or smokable herbs, as seen in FIG. 27. The crushed flower is simultaneously being pressurized between extrusion nozzle 88 and bifurcated member 136, within rolling paper tension provided by controlled rotation of the joint fork assembly 126, as seen in FIG. 28. Exterior edge 89 of nozzle, along with other mechanical guides, may be used to guide the paper 160 around the nozzle and into an overlapping helix shape to overlap adhesive paper on wound paper, as seen in FIG. 28.

Once the joint rollout phase has been completed subsequent to joint fork assembly's desired horizontal movement away from cannabis extrusion nozzle 88, the final sequence will take place to finish the cannabis containing rod or joint. First, the continuous rolling paper 160 needs to be cut. In this adaptation, paper feed assembly 158 seen in FIG. 26 includes a cutting member or blade 196a placed on a micro-linear actuator 179 in contact with a stationary blade 196b. 196a is attached to a hinge and track system, with the track being connected to motor 197, as seen in FIG. 26. The horizontal movement of the micro actuator will then be transferred to a scissor-like movement of 196a upon the stationary 196b, although a multitude of other adaptations may be used within the paper feed assembly in this non-limiting adaptation. Microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1 is in communication with the stepper motor and selectively causes the blade seen in FIG. 26 to cut off the paper 160 so rotated about elongate portion 78 of cannabis 44 seen in FIG. 27, from the rest of the paper disposed within paper wrapping assembly 158.

Once the paper has been cut by way of the blade and horizontal and vertical movement across the paper, water sensor 205 seen in FIG. 26 will stop requiring water presence from pump 194. The pump may wind in reverse to create reverse pressure within the water feed tube or conduit 192. Subsequently, the end piece of rolling paper will finish its wind around the finished joint 210 seen in FIG. 27. To ensure the paper stays within prescribed path, subsequent to being cut, a physical paper protrusion or guide 212 is used, as seen in FIG. 27, fixed to the same planetary gear system used for paper feed assembly. This paper guide 212 is situated around nozzle 88 at about 190 degrees from home position to guide paper around the nozzle in this example. Guide 212 includes a distal end portion 213 that is slanted in this example and shaped and to promote adhering of paper 160 about cannabis 44.

As joint fork assembly 126 is axially horizontally retreating from extrusion nozzle 88 while continuously rotating in the same direction as it had been since the start of the paper feed sequence to ensure a tight rolled cannabis containing material, microprocessor 184 seen in FIG. 1 in the final phase will stop flow/extrusion of crushed flower and cut off the paper within paper feed assembly via 158 stepper motor 179 seen in FIG. 26 and described herein, and end of paper wound around the existing joint. At this state there will be a small hollow space left near the end of the joint as the joint fork assembly 126 continues its retreat.

Subsequently and referring to FIG. 30, the horizontal movement away from the extrusion zone will continue towards the end where the joint fork assembly 126 may turn from horizontal, roughly 45 degrees, to a vertical position through as it's pivot's pinions 235a and 235b on either side, as seen in FIG. 9, engages with rack 220a and 220b on either side of the tracks to rotate the component as it's base 234 continues its horizontal movement away from the nozzle, in this non-limiting embodiment. This vertical positioning is achieved through using the horizontal drive force of actuator coupler 180 seen in FIG. 28 to a semi-rack 220a and 220b and pinion gear 235a and 235b as partially seen in FIG. 24, where said horizontal force can be used to rotate the joint fork assembly roughly 45 degrees to its final vertical position, for easy access to the finished joint 210 seen in FIG. 30. At this stage, the user may choose to twist off the finished joint and pull the joint off of the joint fork assembly 126. Joint making machine 20 as described herein would then return to their home position on user command as seen in FIG. 1, ready to create the next joint.

Many advantages result from the structure of the present invention. The joint making machine 20 and method has been designed for end consumers as a home appliance with the purpose of storing, crushing and rolling individual cannabis containing joints or rods, on command, with enough supplies to accommodate multiple joint formations. This apparatus is also designed such that paper refills are not necessary for 2 to 200 (or more) joints or rods. Therefore, this apparatus requires minimal maintenance to provide an enhanced experience for end-users.

Referring to FIG. 16, joint making machine 20 as herein described may thus, on user command, allow cannabis flowers to move from a storage pod or cartridge 46 to a crushing main shearing chamber 64 through a powered mechanism, in this example crushers 66 and 68, whereby initial cutting of large cannabis buds 44 will occur through the initial shredder while depositing chunks of cannabis buds towards the main cylindrical shearing chamber or extruder 74 wherein a helical or partially helical set of protrusions 108 and blades 118 will spin rapidly to simultaneously shear, break apart and transport cannabis flowers while pressurizing crushed material towards extrusion nozzle 88. As such, cannabis bud shearing may occur through any combination of the mentioned cutting blades. Immediately after the nozzle extrusion, the crushed cannabis flower will fill the hollow space of paper being wound around the nozzle from a continuous roll of paper, through mechanisms described herein, for paper and adhesive thereof to overlap in a helical shape, from its filter base towards a finished cannabis containing rod or joint.

Aspects of the invention provide a joint making machine and method of automatically crushing and rolling cannabis into customizable joints or rods complete with a filter, doing so with enough supplies within the apparatus for multiple joints or rods. This is achieved by way of adequate storage capacity for enough cannabis and papers for multiple joints and a fully automated cannabis joint making machine. Initiation of a joint is activated with single user command to go through a sequence of electric motor driven motions necessary within the system, to make a desired joint.

Where a component (e.g. a software module, processor, assembly, device, circuit, etc.) is referred to herein, unless otherwise indicated, reference to that component (including a reference to a “means”) should be interpreted as including as equivalents of that component any component which performs the function of the described component (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), including components which are not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Embodiments of the invention may be implemented using specifically designed hardware, configurable hardware, programmable data processors configured by the provision of software (which may optionally comprise “firmware”) capable of executing on the data processors, special purpose computers or data processors that are specifically programmed, configured, or constructed to perform one or more steps in a method as explained in detail herein and/or combinations of two or more of these. Examples of specifically designed hardware are: logic circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”), large scale integrated circuits (“LSIs”), very large scale integrated circuits (“VLSIs”), and the like. Examples of configurable hardware are: one or more programmable logic devices such as programmable array logic (“PALs”), programmable logic arrays (“PLAs”), and field programmable gate arrays (“FPGAs”). Examples of programmable data processors are: microprocessors, digital signal processors (“DSPs”), embedded processors, graphics processors, math co-processors, general purpose computers, server computers, cloud computers, mainframe computers, computer workstations, and the like. For example, one or more data processors in a control circuit for a device may implement methods as described herein by executing software instructions in a program memory accessible to the processors.

Processing may be centralized or distributed. Where processing is distributed, information including software and/or data may be kept centrally or distributed. Such information may be exchanged between different functional units by way of a communications network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or the Internet, wired or wireless data links, electromagnetic signals, or other data communication channel.

The invention may also be provided in the form of a program product. The program product may comprise any non-transitory medium which carries a set of computer-readable instructions which, when executed by a data processor, cause the data processor to execute a method of the invention. Program products according to the invention may be in any of a wide variety of forms. The program product may comprise, for example, non-transitory media such as magnetic data storage media including floppy diskettes, hard disk drives, optical data storage media including CD ROMs, DVDs, electronic data storage media including ROMs, flash RAM, EPROMs, hardwired or preprogrammed chips (e.g., EEPROM semiconductor chips), nanotechnology memory, or the like. The computer-readable signals on the program product may optionally be compressed or encrypted.

In some embodiments, the invention may be implemented in software. For greater clarity, “software” includes any instructions executed on a processor, and may include (but is not limited to) firmware, resident software, microcode, code for configuring a configurable logic circuit, applications, apps, and the like. Both processing hardware and software may be centralized or distributed (or a combination thereof), in whole or in part, as known to those skilled in the art. For example, software and other modules may be accessible via local memory, via a network, via a browser or other application in a distributed computing context, or via other means suitable for the purposes described above.

Software and other modules may reside on servers, workstations, personal computers, tablet computers, and other devices suitable for the purposes described herein.

Interpretation of Terms

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims:

• • “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”;
  • “connected”, “coupled”, or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof;
  • “herein”, “above”, “below”, and words of similar import, when used to describe this specification, shall refer to this specification as a whole, and not to any particular portions of this specification;
  • “or”, in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list;
  • the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” also include the meaning of any appropriate plural forms. These terms (“a”, “an”, and “the”) mean one or more unless stated otherwise;
  • “and/or” is used to indicate one or both stated cases may occur, for example A and/or B includes both (A and B) and (A or B);
  • “approximately” when applied to a numerical value means the numerical value ±10%;
  • where a feature is described as being “optional” or “optionally” present or described as being present “in some embodiments” it is intended that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where that feature is present and other embodiments where that feature is not necessarily present and other embodiments where that feature is excluded. Further, where any combination of features is described in this application this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for the use of exclusive terminology such as “solely,” “only” and the like in relation to the combination of features as well as the use of “negative” limitation(s)” to exclude the presence of other features; and
  • “first” and “second” are used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or indicating the number of indicated technical features.

Words that indicate directions such as “vertical”, “transverse”, “horizontal”, “upward”, “downward”, “forward”, “backward”, “inward”, “outward”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, “below”, “above”, “under”, and the like, used in this description and any accompanying claims (where present), depend on the specific orientation of the apparatus described and illustrated. The subject matter described herein may assume various alternative orientations. Accordingly, these directional terms are not strictly defined and should not be interpreted narrowly.

Where a range for a value is stated, the stated range includes all sub-ranges of the range. It is intended that the statement of a range supports the value being at an endpoint of the range as well as at any intervening value to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range, as well as any subrange or sets of sub ranges of the range unless the context clearly dictates otherwise or any portion(s) of the stated range is specifically excluded. Where the stated range includes one or both endpoints of the range, ranges excluding either or both of those included endpoints are also included in the invention.

Certain numerical values described herein are preceded by “about”. In this context, “about” provides literal support for the exact numerical value that it precedes, the exact numerical value ±5%, as well as all other numerical values that are near to or approximately equal to that numerical value. Unless otherwise indicated a particular numerical value is included in “about” a specifically recited numerical value where the particular numerical value provides the substantial equivalent of the specifically recited numerical value in the context in which the specifically recited numerical value is presented. For example, a statement that something has the numerical value of “about 10” is to be interpreted as: the set of statements:

• • in some embodiments the numerical value is 10;
  • in some embodiments the numerical value is in the range of 9.5 to 10.5;and if from the context the person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that values within a certain range are substantially equivalent to 10 because the values with the range would be understood to provide substantially the same result as the value 10 then “about 10” also includes:
  • in some embodiments the numerical value is in the range of C to D where C and D are respectively lower and upper endpoints of the range that encompasses all of those values that provide a substantial equivalent to the value 10

Specific examples of systems, methods and apparatus have been described herein for purposes of illustration. These are only examples. The technology provided herein can be applied to systems other than the example systems described above. Many alterations, modifications, additions, omissions, and permutations are possible within the practice of this invention. This invention includes variations on described embodiments that would be apparent to the skilled addressee, including variations obtained by: replacing features, elements and/or acts with equivalent features, elements and/or acts; mixing and matching of features, elements and/or acts from different embodiments; combining features, elements and/or acts from embodiments as described herein with features, elements and/or acts of other technology; and/or omitting combining features, elements and/or acts from described embodiments.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any other described embodiment(s) without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Any aspects described above in reference to apparatus may also apply to methods and vice versa.

Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order which is logically possible. For example, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative examples may perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternative or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel, simultaneously or at different times.

Various features are described herein as being present in “some embodiments”. Such features are not mandatory and may not be present in all embodiments. Embodiments of the invention may include zero, any one or any combination of two or more of such features. All possible combinations of such features are contemplated by this disclosure even where such features are shown in different drawings and/or described in different sections or paragraphs. This is limited only to the extent that certain ones of such features are incompatible with other ones of such features in the sense that it would be impossible for a person of ordinary skill in the art to construct a practical embodiment that combines such incompatible features. Consequently, the description that “some embodiments” possess feature A and “some embodiments” possess feature B should be interpreted as an express indication that the inventors also contemplate embodiments which combine features A and B (unless the description states otherwise or features A and B are fundamentally incompatible). This is the case even if features A and B are illustrated in different drawings and/or mentioned in different paragraphs, sections or sentences.

Additional Description

Examples of joint forming machines have been described. The following clauses are offered as further description.

• • 1) An apparatus and method for automatic making of single cannabis containing rods or joints, with storage capacity of consumables for multiple joints. This is provided via through use of multiple electric motors, controllers and computer, the apparatus comprising: a storage chamber where uncrushed cannabis flowers may be stored, said chamber may be removable or non-removable. In this exemplary embodiment, the chamber is removable and inserted within a slot. Additionally, other one-time use pre-packaged cannabis container may also be inserted into the same slot. A first set of crushers allows flow of cannabis flower into the second, main transporting chamber. A second chamber is provided wherein a helical or partially helically structured blade with numerous cutting blades on its outer circumference are spun rapidly around the main structures axis, run by a DC motor, to crush cannabis flowers, concurrently push and pressurize the crushed flowers towards extrusion and paper rolling area. A tapered portion of the helical blade and chamber reduces its diameter in a conical shape towards a desired extrusion diameter. There is a paper rolling area situated immediately after the main extruding nozzle comprising a paper feed assembly located around the cannabis extrusion nozzle, feeding filter paper and a continuous roll of rolling paper, activating moisture enabled adhesive and cutting rolling paper while able to rotate partially or fully around the extrusion nozzle.
  • 2) There is provided a joint fork assembly of the rolling area able to mechanically wind paper and filter, fed by paper feed assembly, concurrently rotating and retreating from the nozzle extrusion, to enable perceived joint growth within the paper rolling area.
  • 3) There is provided a pressure sensor incorporated within the joint fork assembly to evaluate internal compaction pressure of the forming cannabis containing joint or rod and serve as control sensor for the system to define rolling speed.
  • 4) There is provided a slot within the joint making machine wherein a cannabis container may fit within it, comprising a mechanism to open the cannabis container during insertion of either a refillable cannabis container or a one-time-use sealed container. There is further included a seal breaking mechanism whereby said container breaks its seal as it is inserted into the slot.
  • 5) There is provided a one-time-use sealed cannabis container, comprising of a vacuum seal mechanism whereby the container may be nitrogen flushed and vacuum sealed.
  • 6) There is provided mechanical crushers or shredder using rotation motion of the crusher to pull uncrushed cannabis flower towards the second chamber and controlling flow rate.
  • 7) There is provided a second chamber comprising of a blade having a helical base shape, either fully or partially helical, possessing a number of cutting blades along the outer circumference of the helical structure, angled such that a forward force is created on freshly cut cannabis subsequent to being cut. Said chamber and blade combine to crush cannabis flower push material forward and extruded with pressure through the main extrusion nozzle.
  • 8) There provided a cutting blade fitting within its housing in the chamber, comprising of tapered angle from 5° to 60° off the horizontal, in a conical shape to reduce chamber and blade diameter towards desired joint diameter.
  • 9) There is provided a paper rolling area comprising two main assemblies, a paper feed assembly and a joint fork assembly, working together to roll a continuous roll of paper around the extrusion nozzle and freshly crushed cannabis flower.
  • 10) There is provided a paper feed assembly comprising storage space for a roll of rolling paper and predefined filter paper. Said assembly also carries out tasks of providing water on moisture activated adhesives, if such paper is used, and cutting the rolling paper. Said assembly being attached to a concentric gear system allowing the assembly to make partial or full or repeated rotations around the main extrusion nozzle. In this exemplary adaptation, paper feed is tilted between 1-40 degrees once reaching its 190 degree rotation point, allowing for rolling paper to better form an overlapping helical structure to overlap adhesive with paper.
  • 11) There is provided a paper feed and winding system that guides the paper to form an overlapping helical arrangement around the freshly cut cannabis containing material extruded from the main nozzle.
  • 12) There is provided a paper winding system comprising two or more prongs to capture fed papers initially aligned to go through the prongs of the joint fork assembly. Wound papers around the joint fork forming the initial part of the joint by way of turning the fed rolling paper and filter around its axis one or more times after both rolling paper and filter have been fed through the fork gap. When adjacent to the main extrusion nozzle and once paper feed assembly has rotated from its initial position, joint fork assembly concurrently winds paper by way of its dedicated step motor, while providing tension to the paper and retreating to relieve pressure buildup from extruded crushed cannabis containing materials.
  • 13) There is provided a joint fork assembly comprising of a shaft, in this case centre shaft, to transfer horizontal force to pressure sensor situated within the joint fork assembly, in this case opposing side of the stepper motor through the bored hole within the stepper motor's main shaft.
  • 14) There is provided a pressure sensor guiding all moving motors during the growth phase of the joint to create a pressure dependent joint formation, thus allowing customizable joint lengths and pressures.
  • 15) There is provided a joint fork system movable from a horizontal to a vertical position, with the finished joint attached and complete, as the final sequence indicating a finished joint
  • 16) Apparatus including any new and inventive feature, combination of features, or sub-combination of features as described herein.
  • 17) Methods including any new and inventive steps, acts, combination of steps and/or acts or sub-combination of steps and/or acts as described herein.

It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions, omissions, and sub-combinations as may reasonably be inferred. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

1-76. (canceled)

77. An apparatus for forming a cigarette, the apparatus comprising: at least one blade to cut and shear a smokable substance comprising plant matter;an extruder via which the smokable substance is selectively extruded;an end member positioned to provide a space for the smokable substance so extruded; anda sensor configured to provide a signal indicative of the extent to which the smokable substance is biased towards the end member to guide a rate at which paper is wound around the smokable substance so extruded.

78. An apparatus according to claim 77, including a microprocessor in communication with the sensor and causing operation of the extruder and one or more other motors and actuators to be altered upon the microprocessor determining that the sensor has reached a predetermined threshold.

79. An apparatus according to claim 77, including a microprocessor to allow for a user interface which receives input regarding a desired degree of compactness of the cigarette.

80. An apparatus according to claim 79, wherein the microprocessor is in communication with the user interface and determines or varies a predetermined threshold of the sensor in response thereto.

81. An apparatus according to claim 79, wherein the microprocessor is in communication with the user interface, the extruder, one or more paper propelling said motors, a paper winding said motor, the actuator and the sensor, with the microprocessor correlating the desired compactness data with a predetermined pressure threshold of the sensor and adjusting paper wrapping speed upon determining that the sensor has at least reached the predetermined pressure threshold.

82. An apparatus according to claim 77, including a microprocessor to allow for a user interface which receives desired length data for the cigarette, at least one actuator which selectively enables a distance of separation between the end member and the extruder to be adjusted, and a microprocessor in communication with the user interface and the sensor, the microprocessor determining when the sensor reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold and in response thereto causing the at least one actuator to alter the distance of separation between the end member and the extruder proportionate to the volume of sheared extruded material and the desired length data.

83. An apparatus according to claim 77, including a microprocessor which receives desired compactness and length of cigarette data and controls positioning of the end member, the extend to which paper is wrapped about the sheared smokable substance and operation of the extruder to adjust a compactness and length of the smokable substance so extruded in response to user input data correlated to the sensor.

84. An apparatus according to claim 77, wherein the extruder includes a barrel which receives the uncut smokable substance to cut and shear, an elongate member disposed within and rotatable relative to the barrel, and a plurality of longitudinally and circumferentially spaced-apart protrusions coupled to and radially-extending outwards from a proximal portion of the elongate member, the extruder being configured to cut, shear and propel freshly cut said plant matter towards the extrusion nozzle.

85. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein the protrusions are arranged in one or more helical formations.

86. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein each said protrusion is outwardly concave at least in part in lateral cross-section.

87. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein distal ends of the protrusions are outwardly convex.

88. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein each said protrusion includes a biasing surface which faces towards a distal portion of the elongate member at least in part.

89. An apparatus according to claim 88, wherein each said biasing surface is outwardly concave.

90. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein a longitudinally extending and helically arranged said blade couples to and extends radially outwards from a distal portion of the elongate member.

91. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein the barrel has an inlet in fluid communication with the protrusions and an outlet in fluid communication with the blade.

92. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein the blade tapers in a direction extending from the proximal portion of the elongate member towards a distal end of the barrel.

93. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein the proximal portion of the elongate member is tapered at least in part.

94. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein the protrusions are arranged in a helical arrangement having a helix angle that is equal to or greater than that of the blade.

95. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein the protrusions extend outwards from the elongate member at a greater pitch relative to the blade.

96. An apparatus according to claim 84, wherein longitudinally spaced-apart adjacent portions of the blade are more spaced-apart from each other relative to longitudinally spaced-apart adjacent said protrusions.

97. A method of forming a cigarette via the apparatus of claim 77, the method comprising: shearing and extruding the smokable substance via the extruder;selectively positioning the end member so as to provide an adjustable space for the smokable substance so extruded; andwrapping paper about the smokable substance so extruded, with the signal provided by a sensor determining flow of extruded material and used to guide the rate at which the paper is wound around the smokable substance so extruded.

98. A method of forming a cigarette via the apparatus of claim 77, the method comprising: storing an uncut said smokable substance within the apparatus;receiving a user command and in response thereto, automatically shearing and extruding said smokable substance so sheared out of a nozzle via the apparatus; andautomatically wrapping paper about the smokable substance so sheared.

99. An apparatus for forming a cigarette, the apparatus comprising: an extruder via which a smokable substance is selectively extruded;an end member positioned to provide a space for the smokable substance so extruded; andat least one actuator which enables a distance between the extruder and the end member to be adjusted, with a length of the cigarette being selectively adjustable thereby.

100. An apparatus according to claim 99, including a microprocessor in communication with the extruder and the at least one actuator, the microprocessor causing the extent to which the extruder extrudes the smokable substance and the extent to which the end member and the extruder are spaced-apart from each other to be selectively adjusted based on one or more of: end-user provided cigarette length data; and end-user provided cigarette compactness data.

101. An apparatus according to claim 99, including a sensor coupled to the end member, wherein the sensor provides a signal indicative of the extent to which the smokable substance is biased towards the end member as paper is wound around the extruded material, and wherein the at least one actuator is actuated to increase the distance of separation between the end member and the extruder upon the sensor reaching a pre-determined threshold.

102. An apparatus according to claim 99, including a microprocessor tracking the position of motors and a sensor which conveys a signal indicative of the extent to which the smokable substance biases against the end member, with operation of one or more of the actuator and the extruder being controlled in response thereto.

103. An apparatus according to claim 99, including a microprocessor tracking the position of motors and a sensor which conveys a signal indicative of the extent to which the end member is spaced from the extruder, with operation of one or more of the actuator and the extruder being controlled in response thereto.

104. An apparatus according to claim 99, including a microprocessor tracking the position of motors and a sensor which conveys a signal indicative of the length of an elongate portion of the smokable material, with operation of one or more of the actuator and the extruder being controlled in response thereto.

105. An apparatus according to claim 99, wherein the apparatus includes one or more cutting members configured to promote shearing of portions of the smokable substance.

106. An apparatus according to claim 99, wherein the extruder has a longitudinal axis, with the end member being longitudinally alignable with the longitudinal axis of the extruder.

107. An apparatus according to claim 99, including paper automatically extendable about the smokable substance so extruded and including a paper wrapping assembly configured to wrap the paper about the smokable substance so extruded.

108. An apparatus according to claim 107, including a gripping member shaped to selectively couple to an outer end of the paper in a paper-gripping position thereof.

109. An apparatus according to claim 108, wherein the at least one actuator enables the gripping member to selectively move from the paper-gripping position to a rolling position in which the gripping member aligns with an elongate portion of the smokable substance.

110. An apparatus according to claim 108, wherein the at least one actuator when actuated causes a first of the paper wrapping assembly and the gripping member to rotate relative to a second of the paper wrapping assembly and the gripping member.

111. An apparatus according to claim 108, wherein the paper wrapping assembly is arranged to unroll said paper at an angle relative to the gripping member, with selective actuation of the at least one actuator causing the paper to rotate about the elongate portion of the smokable substance.

112. An apparatus according to claim 108, wherein the gripping member is bifurcated.

113. A method of forming a cigarette via the apparatus of claim 99, the method comprising: receiving one or more of end-user provided cigarette length data and the end-user provided cigarette compactness data;shearing and extruding the smokable substance via the extruder towards the end member;adjusting positioning of the end member via the at least one actuator based on one or more of the end-user provided cigarette length data and the end-user provided cigarette compactness data; andwrapping paper about the smokable substance so extruded.

114. An apparatus for forming a cigarette, the apparatus comprising: an extruder configured to extrude a smokable substance towards an end member;at least one sensor configured to provide a signal indicative of the extent to which the smokable substance is biased towards the end member; anda microprocessor which controls operation of the extruder and positioning of the end member relative to the extruder to adjust a compactness and length of the smokable substance so extruded in response to user input data correlated at least in part to the sensor.