Modular machine for processing and/or testing rod-shaped articles, and related methods

A processing machine for rod-shaped articles, comprising:

• a base frame;
• a back plate attached to and extending upward from the base frame;
• a plurality of function modules mounted to the back plate, each of the plurality of function modules being configured to perform a manufacturing function on a rod-shaped article, each of the plurality of function modules including:
• a mounting plate adapted to removably attach each corresponding function module to the back plate as a unit,
• a dedicated drive motor supported on the mounting plate, the dedicated drive motor being configured to move at least a portion of the corresponding function module, and
• a connection on the mounting plate, wherein the connection is configured to provide a connection point for at least one of electrical connections or pneumatic connections;
• and
• a control system comprising a memory configured to store a calibration setting of each of the plurality of function modules and a computer configured to recall the calibration setting of each of the plurality of function modules;
• wherein the dedicated drive motor of each of the plurality of function modules is distinct from another dedicated drive motor of another one of the plurality of function modules;
• wherein the control system is configured to store the calibration setting of each of the plurality of function modules in the memory, to recall the calibration setting by the computer, and to adjust one or more of the plurality of function modules to the recalled calibration setting after a setting of the one or more of the plurality of function modules is changed, and
• wherein the control system is configured to adjust one or more settings of the processing machine to position or synchronize the plurality of function modules with respect to one another, or both.