U.S. patent application number 11/659785 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-09 for yarn processing system and yarn feeding device.
Invention is credited to Jonas Frendin, Kurt Arne Gunnar Jacobsson, Richard Kaufmann, Peter Kiebler, Per Ohlson.
Application Number | 20080245110 11/659785 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35414505 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080245110 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jacobsson; Kurt Arne Gunnar ;
et al. |
October 9, 2008 |
Yarn Processing System and Yarn Feeding Device
Abstract
The invention relates to a yarn processing system S with a
textile machine T, a carrying device P, comprising a round
cross-section or square cross-section clamping profile 1 and at
least one yarn feeding device F, fixed to the clamping profile,
which yarn feeding device fixation has a cut-out 5 and at least one
detachable clamping element 7 for mounting on the clamping profile,
wherein the cut-out of the fixation B of the yarn feeding device F
is either selectively changeable between a round configuration and
a square configuration or is embodied to be suitable for both
cross-sections.
Inventors: |
Jacobsson; Kurt Arne Gunnar;
(Ulricehamn, SE) ; Ohlson; Per; (Tvaerred, SE)
; Frendin; Jonas; (Aespered, SE) ; Kaufmann;
Richard; (Freudenstadt, DE) ; Kiebler; Peter;
(Seewald, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FLYNN THIEL BOUTELL & TANIS, P.C.
2026 RAMBLING ROAD
KALAMAZOO
MI
49008-1631
US
|
Family ID: |
35414505 |
Appl. No.: |
11/659785 |
Filed: |
June 24, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
June 24, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP05/06856 |
371 Date: |
January 14, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
66/125R ;
139/450 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D03D 47/361 20130101;
D04B 15/48 20130101; D03D 47/34 20130101; D04B 15/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
66/125.R ;
139/450 |
International
Class: |
D04B 27/10 20060101
D04B027/10; D03D 47/34 20060101 D03D047/34 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 13, 2004 |
DE |
10 2004 039 415.6 |
Claims
1-33. (canceled)
34. Yarn processing system, including a textile machine in
particular a knitting machine or a weaving machine, a carrying
device comprising a clamping profile having either a round
cross-section or a square cross-section, and at least one yarn
feeding device which is fixed at the clamping profile, the yarn
feeding device having a fixation with a cut-out including at least
one releasable clamping element for positioning and clamping the
yarn feeding device on the clamping profile, wherein the cut-out of
the fixation is shaped with a geometric configuration which
selectively fits on a round cross-section or a square cross-section
and that the cut-out of the fixation selectively is changeable
between round configurations and square configurations.
35. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the
cut-out is formed with a square configuration, and that at least
one adapter part is provided for changing the cut-out into the
round configuration, which adapter part is to be inserted into the
cut-out having the square configuration.
36. Yarn processing system according to claim 35, wherein the
adapter part comprises a round depression having a radius of
curvature which at least to a large extent corresponds to the
curvature of the round cross-section.
37. Yarn processing system according to claim 35, wherein the
adapter part comprises a V-shaped depression, preferably, having at
least one structured V-flank.
38. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the
cut-out is bounded by at least one freely ending leg which contains
the clamping element, and that at least one support surface is
provided opposite to the leg in the cut-out, against which support
surface either the clamping profile or the adapter part is pressed
by means of the clamping element.
39. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein a flat
cable depression is provided in the support surface, in which
depression contacting members are placed, and that a flat cable
installed along the clamping profile is laid into the flat cable
depression and is held by a pressing action either of the clamping
profile or of the adapter part against the support surface in a
contact engagement with the contacting members.
40. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the
distance between the leg and the support surface is adjustable.
41. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the
adapter part is a plastic moulded part.
42. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the
adapter part is formed as a flat cable installation clip fitting on
the round cross-section clamping profile.
43. Yarn processing system according to claim 42, wherein the round
depression of the adapter part extends over more than 180.degree.
in circular measurement, and that the adapter part has a
positioning device for the flat cable at the side remote from the
depression.
44. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein the
fixation is rotatable at the housing of the yarn feeding device at
least about an axis which substantially extends perpendicular to
the core axis of the clamping profile, and that, preferably, the
fixation can be fixed at the housing in different rotary
positions.
45. Yarn processing system according to claim 44, wherein a
universal joint is provided between the fixation and the
housing.
46. Yarn processing system according to claim 44, wherein the
relative adjustment range of the fixation on the housing is
limited.
47. Yarn processing system according to claim 44, wherein the
contacting members are stationarily placed in the fixation and are
galvanically connected with a current interface stationarily
provided in the housing of the yarn feeding device via conductors
which are loosely installed with some excess length.
48. Yarn processing system according to claim 34, wherein in
addition to the one adapter part a second adapter part is inserted
into the cut-out formed with the square configuration for the
clamping profile having a square cross-section, and that the
fixation is adjustable relative to the clamping profile and to the
second adapter part.
49. Yarn feeding device, in particular for a knitting machine, the
yarn feeding device having a fixation with a cut-out for
positioning and clamping the yarn feeding device at a clamping
profile of a carrying device, wherein the cut-out either is formed
or can be formed with a geometric configuration fitting on a round
cross-section or a square cross-section of the clamping profile,
and that a pressing plate is movably arranged in the cut-out at the
clamping element which is formed as a clamping screw engaging into
the cut-out, that the pressing plate has a continuous depression
for at least partial engagement of a clamping profile having a
round cross section and being inserted into the cut-out, the
depression being located in the side of the pressing plate facing
the yarn feeding device.
50. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein a form-fit
coupling is provided between the pressing plate and the clamping
screw, which coupling couples the pressing plate in axial direction
of the clamping screw with the clamping screw and which allows
relative rotary movements between the clamping screw and the
pressing plate.
51. Yarn feeding device according to claim 50, wherein the pressing
plate is held via the coupling at least such that it can tilt
between limits on the clamping screw between limits.
52. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the pressing
plate is a stamped sheet metal part having substantially constant
thickness.
53. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the pressing
plate either is rectangular or square and is longer in lateral
direction of the cut-out than the cut-out, and that, preferably,
the pressing plate protrudes beyond the cut-out at both lateral
sides.
54. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the
depression is substantially V-shaped and is continuous over the
length of the pressing plate.
55. Yarn feeding device according to claim 54, wherein the V-shaped
depression in its cross-section is at least substantially
symmetrical to the axis of the clamping screw, and that the
depression has an opening angle of more than 90.degree., preferably
of about 120.degree..
56. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein pressing
surfaces continue from side edges of the depression, which pressing
surfaces are situated in a common plane which essentially is
perpendicular to the axis of the clamping screw and that,
preferably, the pressing surfaces are provided at edge strips of
the pressing plate and are bounded by straight edges.
57. Yarn feeding device according to claim 56, wherein in a
direction perpendicular to the direction of the depression the two
pressing surfaces have different widths and that the pressing plate
can be placed in the cut-out in two operative positions rotated
about the axis of the clamping screw by 180.degree., such that a
predetermined large adjustment gap for tilted positions is defined
in the one operative position between the wall of the cut-out and
the edge of the pressing plate, and that in the other operative
position an only minimal small guiding gap is formed.
58. Yarn feeding device according to claim 49, wherein the cut-out
is bounded by a leg provided at the yarn feeding device, and that
at least one support plate is slidably guided in the cut-out at the
leg, the contour and size of which at least substantially
corresponds with the contour and size of the pressing plate, or
which is a little bit longer than the pressing plate.
59. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein the support
plate is guided in a dovetail guidance at the leg, preferably
either directly at the side edges or at undercut guiding edges of
the leg.
60. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein the leg is
detachably secured at the yarn feeding device, preferably to define
several different fixing positions.
61. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein the support
plate has a wedge-shaped cross-section.
62. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein two support
plates are provided which have equal wedge-shaped
cross-sections.
63. Yarn feeding device according to claim 58, wherein a continuous
depression is provided in the support plate which depression is
aligned in the direction of the axis of the clamping screw with the
depression of the pressing plate.
64. Yarn feeding device according to claim 50, wherein the clamping
screw screwed into a threaded bore of the leg has a thread-free end
pin in continuation of a shoulder, and that the end pin penetrates
a bore of the pressing plate with a clearance and is riveted in the
depression, the bore being provided in the deepest portion of the
depression.
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a yarn processing system according
to the preamble of claim 1 and to a yarn feeding device according
to the preamble of claim 17.
[0002] Within a yarn processing system, including among others a
textile machine like a knitting machine or a weaving machine and
yarn feeding devices functionally associated with the textile
machine, the yarn feeding devices are fixed at a carrying device
such that the respective storage body of the feeding device points
downwardly. The carrying device comprises a clamping profile which
either has a square cross-section or a round cross-section. In
particular in the case of a circular knitting machine to the
knittirig systems of which many yarn feeding devices have to be
associated so that optimum yarn geometries can be obtained, the
carrying device may be a carrying ring made of a clamping profile
with either a round cross-section or a square cross-section.
Similarly, the carrying device of the yarn feeding devices of a
weaving machine, a so-called feeder stand, comprises at least one
clamping profile having a round cross-section or a square
cross-section. Conventionally, the fixations of the yarn feeding
devices are adapted to the cross-section of the clamping profile
used for respective carrying device, i.e., yarn feeding devices
exist which have a fixation for square-cross sections only, and
yarn feeding devices having a fixation for round cross-sections
only.
[0003] A fixation at the lower side of the housing of the yarn
feeding device is known from the technical brochure "Storage Feeder
NOVAKNIT 1000" 11.905.001.01 DANC-25 of the company Memminger-IRO
GmbH, D-72277 Dornstetten, which comprises a cut-out which is open
to the lower side and has a square cross-section for receiving a
square clamping profile. The fixation is rotatable about an axis in
relation to the housing of the yarn feeding device. This axis lies
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
clamping profile.
[0004] From the technical brochure "Yarn Storage Feeder SFE" of the
company Memminger-IRO GmbH, it is known to integrate the fixation
into the rear side of the housing of the yarn feeding device. The
fixation has a cut-out which is open to the lower side and has a
square cross-section for receiving a square clamping profile the
cross-section of which is set up on edge. A flat band cable facing
t the yarn feeding device is installed on the broader side of the
square clamping profile. The flat cable extends into the cut-out
and is connected there with contacting members within the cut-out.
The fixation allows only mounting positions of the yarn feeding
devices which are offset by 90.degree. to one another.
[0005] From the technical brochure "Holder" 006.900.018 dated Feb.
5, 2001 of the company Memminger-IRO GmbH, it is known to
selectively equip yarn feeding devices of the type SFE with one of
three different fixations, depending on the cross-section of the
clamping profile used for carrying device. The first type serves to
mount the yarn feeding device at a clamping profile having a round
cross-section. The fixation can be rotated about an axis relative
to the housing of the yarn feeding device, which axis is
perpendicular to the core line of the clamping profile.
Furthermore, the yarn feeding device may be rotated with the
fixation about the round clamping profile and can then be clamped
in different rotary positions. The cut-out of the fixation has a
curvature corresponding to the curvature of the round cross-section
of the clamping profile. The second type comprises a fixation
including a rectangular cut-out which is open in the direction away
from the housing wall carrying the fixation. The fixation can be
rotated relative to the housing of the yarn feeding device. In this
way the yarn feeding device can be fixed substantially parallel to
the vertical axis of the square cross-section. The third type
comprises a fixation the rectangular cut-out of which is open
sidewardly and which can be rotated relative to the housing. In the
cut-out and opposite to the clamping element a recess is provided
for introducing a flat cable. Contacting members are stationarily
placed within the recess. The flat cable which is installed at the
broader side of the square clamping profile is introduced into the
recess and is engaging into the contacting members by the pressure
of the clamping profile. It is only possible to achieve different
device mounting positions which are offset to each other by
90.degree..
[0006] It is an object of the invention to design a yarn processing
system as well as a yarn feeding device such that one and the same
fixation of the yarn feeding device can be used irrespective of
whether the clamping profile has a round cross-section or a square
cross-section. In this case also the object should be achieved to
allow in some cases to connect an installed flat cable irrespective
of whether the clamping profile has a square cross-section or a
round cross-section. Finally, the yarn feeding device should be
universally adjustable on the clamping profile with a view to an
optimum yarn geometry.
[0007] This object is achieved by the features of claim 1 and the
features of claim 17.
[0008] As the cut-out selectively can be mounted on a square
cross-section or a round cross-section clamping profile a yarn
feeding device is achieved which can be mounted universally and
independent from the clamping profile provided.
[0009] The yarn feeding device can be universally mounted thanks to
the special configuration of the cut-out selectively at a square
cross-section clamping profile or a round cross-section clamping
profile of the carrying device. This structural design of the
fixation does not only improve the availability at the user's site
of yarn feeding devices but also offers already at the
manufacturer's site advantages with a view to production and
logistics, since this universal yarn feeding device is independent
from clamping profiles. In this case the cut-out either can be
changed or is designed from the beginning for both types of
cross-sections.
[0010] If, in a preferred embodiment, the cut-out of the fixation
can be changed selectively, in order to fit a round cross-section
or a square cross-section of the clamping profile, the same yarn
feeding device can be implemented at carrying devices in yarn
processing systems the clamping profile of which either has a round
cross-section or a square cross-section. This is of particular
advantage for the user when obtaining the yarn feeding devices
because the user does not have to take care which clamping profile
the in some cases already present carrying device might have. The
same is true when a user tries to obtain a carrying device because
the user then does not need to consider the cross-section of the
clamping profile with a view to the fixations of already present
yarn feeding devices or with a view to yarn feeding devices of this
kind which are to be purchased in the future.
[0011] In an expedient embodiment the cut-out of the fixation is
formed with a rectangular configuration. In order to change to the
round configuration at least one adapter part is provided which can
be inserted into the cut-out having the square configuration.
Depending on the cross-section of the clamping profile the adapter
part either is inserted or is dispensed with. It is to be noted
that this concept also can be inversed, i.e. that the cut-out is
formed with a round configuration and that at least one adapter
part is provided which can be inserted to change to the square
configuration. The respective adapter part is a simple, fair cost
and small accessory part of a yarn feeding device.
[0012] Expediently, the adapter part has a round depression having
a radius of curvature which at least to a large extent corresponds
with the curvature of the round cross-section of the clamping
profile. The depression may be semi-circular, and in some cases may
be structured in order to achieve a firm friction engagement or
even a positive engagement. The depression may be smaller in
circular measurement than 180.degree. or even may be larger than
180.degree.. In the latter case this circular measurement of more
than 180.degree. may be used in some cases to achieve a snapping
fixation at the clamping profile.
[0013] In an alternative embodiment the adapter part has a V-shaped
depression. At least one V-flank may have a structure or a stepped
configuration in order to intensify the friction engagement. The V
cross-section fits to round cross-sections of different diameters
which improves the versatile usefulness of the fixation. The steps
even may fit to different square cross-sections.
[0014] In order to achieve a firm seat of the yarn feeding device
at the respective clamping profile, it may be expedient if the
cut-out is bounded by at least one freely cantilevering leg which
contains the clamping element, and if opposite to the leg a support
plate is provided in the cut-out against which either the clamping
profile or the adapter part is pressed by means of the clamping
element. The support plate in this case may be flat in order to
press the square clamping profile or to press against a flat side
of the adapter part for the round cross-section, or the support
plate may be rounded in order to abut at the round clamping profile
or at a correspondingly round side of the adapter part for a square
cross-section. Expediently, the cut-out opens sidewardly, i.e.
substantially in the direction in which the adjacent housing side
of the yarn feeding device is provided. However, it is also
possible to position the open side of the cut-out such that it
faces away from the side of the housing of the yarn feeding
device.
[0015] With a view to a simple connection of the yarn feeding
device to a flat cable it is expedient in another embodiment if a
flat cable depression is provided in the support plate. Contacting
members may be placed in the depression. A flat cable which is
installed along the clamping profile then will be inserted into the
recess and will be brought into contact engagement with the
contacting members by the pressure either of the clamping profile
or the adapter part against the support plate. This connection
principle for the flat cable can be realised with this fixation
irrespective of whether the flat cable is installed at a square
clamping profile or a round clamping profile.
[0016] Since it is possible in practice that, e.g. in the direction
of the adjustability of the clamping element, the thickness of the
round cross-section may be significantly larger than the thickness
of the square cross-section of the clamping profile, it may be
advantageous to make in an embodiment the distance of the leg of
the fixation adjustable in relation to the support plate. In the
case that the fixation has to be fixed at a thin square
cross-section clamping profile, in advance the distance of the leg
from the support plate may be shortened. Inversely, for a thick
square cross-section clamping profile or a thick round
cross-section clamping profile the distance of the leg may be made
larger in advance.
[0017] With a view to the production it is expedient if the adapter
part is a plastic moulded part, e.g. a plastic injection moulded
part.
[0018] Due to the simplicity of the adapter part, e.g. intended for
selectively achieving the round configuration of the cut-out, the
adapter part may assume an additional function when installing the
flat cable at the clamping profile. This means that the adapter
part may be secured at the clamping profile like a holding clip and
in turn fixes the flat cable in place. This additional function of
the adapter part can be used at locations where a yarn feeding
device is to be fixed with the help of the fixation at the clamping
profile anyhow. According to a further aspect of the invention a
plurality of such adapter parts basically may be snapped as
fixation clips for the flat cable also at locations at the clamping
profile where no yarn feeding device is to be positioned.
[0019] In this case it may be expedient if the round depression of
the adapter part extends over more than 180.degree. in circular
measurement, in order to achieve a snapping effect by the
elasticity of the adapter e.g. made of plastic material. There even
might be provided a positioning device for the flat cable at the
side of the adapter part which is opposite to the depression. The
positioning device e.g. may be easily bendable hooks or the
like.
[0020] In order to expand the adjustment range of the yarn feeding
device relative to the clamping profile it is particularly
expedient according to a further aspect of the invention to provide
a fixation at the housing of the yarn feeding device so that the
fixation can be rotated about an axis which substantially is
perpendicular to the core axis of the clamping profile. In this
case the fixation should allow to be fixed in different rotary
positions relative to the housing.
[0021] In order to even allow an adjustment of the yarn feeding
device about the core axis of the clamping profile in case of a
square clamping profile even a sort of a universal joint may be
expedient which is provided between the housing and the fixation.
This type of adjustment of the yarn feeding device also could be
achieved by two adapter parts in the cut-out, one of which can be
rotated relative to the other and relative to the square clamping
profile.
[0022] Expediently, the respective adjustment range is limited in
order to avoid damages in the electric connection between the
contacting members and electric components within or at the
exterior of the yarn feeding device.
[0023] With a view to a relatively large adjustment range it may be
expedient in another embodiment to place the contacting members in
the fixation stationarily and to connect them by means of flexible
conductors with a current interface stationarily provided in the
housing of the yarn feeding device. These flexible conductors
should be installed with a certain excess length and, in some
cases, loosely, such that they allow relatively large adjustment
movements between the housing and the fixation.
[0024] In order to allow to fix or position the yarn feeding device
without changing the fixation and without inserting additional
parts or without removing inserted parts and irrespective of
whether the clamping profile has a square cross-section or a round
cross-section, a further embodiment of the yarn feeding device is
characterised by a pressing plate which has a substantially
V-shaped depression in the lower side facing the yarn feeding
device. The pressing plate is movably arranged in the cut-out at
the clamping element which is shaped as a clamping screw. The
pressing plate transfers the holding force of the clamping element
on the clamping profile irrespective of whether the clamping
profile has a square cross-section or a round cross-section. The
pressing plate contacts the square cross-section with two contact
areas and in flat relation, while a round cross-section is fixed at
two line contact areas in the depression. The depression may e.g.
be V-shaped and with sharp edges, or may have in the deepest region
or at the ends of the flanks slightly rounded portions, or may in
some cases even have ridges.
[0025] Expediently a form-fit coupling is provided between the
pressing plate and the clamping screw, which coupling couples the
pressing plate in axial direction of the clamping screw such that
with the clamping screw loosened the pressing plate cannot fall
off, but that relative rotary movements are allowed between the
clamping screw and the pressing plate. Due to this the clamping
screw can be rotated in the threaded bore of the leg relative to
the pressing plate while the pressing plate in some cases may adapt
itself properly to the shape of the clamping profile and in
relation to the fixation.
[0026] Expediently, the pressing plate is held at the clamping
screw such that it at least can tilt within limits and cannot fall
off. The tiltability allows to adjust the yarn feeding device in
some at least limited tilted positions of relative to the clamping
profile, and also allows a proper adaptation of the pressing plate
at the clamping profile in order to transmit high clamping forces
uniformly.
[0027] With a view to production the pressing plate is a simple
stamped sheet metal part having substantially constant wall
thickness. The V-shaped depression is bent in the in some cases
flat pressing plate such that the depression extends continuously
over the length of the pressing plate. In an expedient embodiment
the pressing plate is rectangular or square and is longer than the
cut-out in lateral direction of the cut-out, preferably such that
the pressing plate protrudes at both lateral sides from the
cut-out. In this fashion the holding force is transmitted via large
areas on the clamping profile.
[0028] Expediently, the depression is generally V-shaped and
continuous over the length of the pressing plate such that it even
co-acts with a round cross-section in large or long contact areas
with a round cross-section.
[0029] With a view to correct force transmission relations the
V-shaped depression should be at least substantially symmetric to
the axis of the clamping screw and should have an opening angle
larger than 90.degree., preferably an opening angle of about
120.degree.. With this design the fixation can be mounted reliably
at round cross-sections which have different diameters.
[0030] In a further advantageous embodiment a respective pressing
surface continues at each side edge of the V-shaped depression. In
this case both pressing surfaces should be in a common plane which
may be substantially perpendicular to the axis of the clamping
screw. Preferably, these pressing surfaces are bounded by edges
which are parallel to each other and in some cases are straight.
The edges bound edge strips of the pressing plate. These pressing
surfaces will come into contact in the case of a square
cross-section of the clamping profile while they might not have any
function in the case of a round cross-section of the clamping
profile.
[0031] A further important aspect are pressing surfaces of
different widths at both sides of the V-shaped depression. The
pressing plate may be placed after disassembly of the clamping
element in two differently rotated mounting positions in the
cut-out which mounting positions are offset to each other by
180.degree. about the axis of the clamping screw. In one of the
mounting positions a predetermined larger tilted position
adjustment gap is formed between the edge of the narrower edge
strip and the wall of the cut-out, while in the other mounting
position only a minimum or even no guiding gap at all will be
formed. In one of the mounting positions for this reason the
fixation with the yarn feeding device may be pivoted at least
limited about the axis of the clamping element back and forth, when
the pressing plate already contacts the round cross-section, such
that mounting positions of the yarn feeding device can be realised
which may be desirable for an optimum yarn geometry or for other
reasons. In the other mounting position, however, the pressing
plate cannot be or can hardly be rotated relative to the fixation
which may be advantageous in the case of a clamping profile having
a square cross-section. In the case that the pressing plate is
placed in the one of the mounting positions for a square clamping
profile, then the yarn feeding device may be rotated, at least
between limits, relative to the clamping profile about the axis of
the clamping element.
[0032] In an expedient embodiment the cut-out is bounded by a leg
at which at least one support plate is guided such that it can be
shifted along. The support plate may be about as big as the
pressing plate or even can be larger or longer. In both cases of a
square cross-section as well as of a round cross-section the side
of the clamping profile which is opposite to the pressing plate
will be supported on the support plate such that the support plate
is either pressed on the support surface at the yarn feeding device
or secures the flat cable in the depression while the holding force
is transmitted on the support surface of the yarn feeding device.
Furthermore, the support plate may be expedient in case of a round
cross-section clamping profile in order to prevent that the round
cross-section undesirably will deform the flat cable. In the case
of a square clamping profile the support plate could be removed or
could be omitted such that then the square clamping profile
directly abuts on the support surface of the yarn feeding
device.
[0033] In a particularly expedient embodiment the support plate is
guided in a dovetail guidance at the leg. This dovetail guidance
may be formed directly between the side edges of the leg and the
support plate, or, alternatively, at undercut guiding edges of the
leg. In this case, first the support plate is a component of the
fixation which cannot be lost but which may be adjusted along the
leg, e.g. in order to first insert the flat cable into the
depression before the fixation is finally fixed at the clamping
profile.
[0034] In an expedient embodiment the leg is removably secured at
the yarn feeding device, preferably, in several different fixing
positions. With this the active length of the fixation can be
adapted to the thickness of the clamping profile. This also allows
to disassemble the leg, e.g. in order, if desired, to remove the
support plate.
[0035] With a view to an optimum yarn geometry a position of the
yarn feeding device could be desirable in which the yarn feeding
device is rotated about the core axis of the clamping profile, e.g.
in order to align the axis of the yarn feeding device in the
carrying device downwardly and inwardly inclined to the centre of
the knitting machine. At a clamping profile having a round
cross-section the tilted position anyhow can be selected freely
thanks to the round cross-section. In the case of a square clamping
profile such a tilted position cannot be realised per se but first
thanks to the wedge cross-section of the support plate and the
relative tiltability of the pressing plate at the clamping
element.
[0036] In another expedient embodiment even two support plates are
provided which have substantially the same wedge-shaped
cross-sections. Both support plates may be combined such that their
surfaces which are opposite to each other either are parallel to
each other or are inclined at an angle to each other. For this
purpose only one of the support plates needs to be rotated by
180.degree.. With the angle which is formed by both surfaces a
predetermined rotary position of the yarn feeding device can be
adjusted at a square clamping profile.
[0037] Even in the support plate a V-shaped depression may be
provided for a round cross-section of the clamping profile. Such a
V-shaped depression is particularly expedient when the support
plate has a wedge-shaped cross-section, in order to e.g. adjust a
somewhat rotated position of the yarn feeding device in case of a
square clamping profile. In this case due to other circumstances
when mounting the same yarn feeding device at a round cross-section
clamping profile an undesirable lateral force could be produced,
which force, however, can be avoided with the help of the two
co-operating V-shaped depressions in the pressing plate and in the
support plate.
[0038] The coupling between the clamping screw and the pressing
plate can be very simple with a view to production. The clamping
screw may have a thread-free end pin in continuation to a shoulder
which end pin penetrates a bore of the pressing plate with
clearance and which is then riveted in the V-shaped depression. The
bore is provided substantially in the deepest portion of the
V-shaped depression. In this fashion the relative rotatability and
e.g. a certain tiltability of the pressing plate are achieved.
[0039] Embodiments of the invention will be explained with the help
of the drawings. In the drawings is:
[0040] FIG. 1 a schematic illustration of a yarn processing
system,
[0041] FIG. 2 a yarn feeding device in a mounting position on a
carrying device such that the yarn feeding device hangs downwardly,
e.g. within the yarn processing system of FIG. 1,
[0042] FIG. 3 a detailed side view of the fixation shown in FIG. 2
after a change to a square configuration,
[0043] FIG. 4 a detailed side view of a further embodiment after a
change to a square configuration having a thinner square
thickness,
[0044] FIG. 5 a side view of a yarn feeding device having another
embodiment of a fixation, in an adjustment for a square
configuration,
[0045] FIG. 6 a side view to FIG. 5 rotated by 90.degree.,
[0046] FIG. 7 a view of an adapter part as a detail variant to FIG.
2,
[0047] FIG. 8 another embodiment of a fixation as an alternative to
the fixation of FIG. 2,
[0048] FIG. 9 a view of an adapter part being a holding clip for a
flat cable at a clamping profile having a round cross-section,
[0049] FIG. 10 a view of a further embodiment,
[0050] FIG. 11 a bottom view of a yarn feeding device having
another embodiment of a fixation, in disassembled condition,
[0051] FIG. 12 a side view to the embodiment of FIG. 11,
[0052] FIG. 13 the yarn feeding device of FIGS. 11 and 12, mounted
at a round cross-section clamping profile,
[0053] FIG. 14 a top view to FIG. 13 with the yarn feeding device
pivoted in relation to the clamping profile,
[0054] FIG. 15 the yarn feeding device of FIGS. 11 and 12 mounts at
a square clamping profile,
[0055] FIG. 16 a detailed view of the fixation,
[0056] FIG. 17 a changed detail of the fixation,
[0057] FIG. 18 a further changed detail of the fixation,
[0058] FIG. 19 a further detail of the fixation, in a first
operative position, and
[0059] FIG. 20 the detail of FIG. 19 in another operative
position.
[0060] A yarn processing system S comprises in FIG. 1 a textile
machine T like a knitting machine K (circular knitting machine or
flat knitting machine), a carrying device P, and several yarn
feeding devices F which are fixed and positioned at the carrying
device P. The carrying device P e.g. is a ring made from a clamping
profile 1. Each yarn feeding device F is fixed at the clamping
profile 1 by a fixation B. Yarns Y are fed from the yarn feeding
devices F to knitting systems of the knitting machine. The yarn
feeding devices F are positioned at the carrying device P such that
in each case an optimum yarn geometry is achieved (e.g. yarn paths
which are substantially of equal length, as short as possible and
without significant deflections).
[0061] Although a flat cable 2 is indicated in FIG. 1 to which at
least one of the yarn feeding devices F is connected (for power
supply and/or within a communication system or control system), it
would be possible as an alternative to connect each yarn feeding
device to a separate cable. The flat cable 2 as shown, expediently,
is installed at the carrying device P, preferably at the clamping
profile 1, such that each provided yarn feeding device F directly
is connected galvanically to the respective conductors of the flat
cable by means of contacting members which are explained later.
[0062] Although the yarn processing system S in FIG. 1 shows a
knitting machine K with knitting yarn feeding devices F, the
principle of the invention can also be used in other yarn
processing systems, e.g. in the case of a weaving machine and weft
yarn feeding devices. In the latter case the yarn feeding devices
are fixed and aligned at one or several clamping profiles of a
so-called feeder stand and such that the storage bodies point
downwardly from the clamping profiles.
[0063] FIG. 2 illustrates e.g. the yarn feeding device F which is
shown in FIG. 1 at the far left side and which is fixed in a fixed
position for operation by the fixation B at the clamping profile 1
of the carrying device P. The yarn feeding device F has a housing 3
and e.g. a storage body 4. The fixation B either is part of the
housing 3 or is secured at the housing, respectively.
[0064] The fixation B has a cut-out 5 which is open along one
longitudinal side of the housing 3 and which generally is
tetragonal or square. The cut-out is bounded by a freely ending leg
6, a leg 8 extending to the housing 3, and a support surface 9
which is flat in the shown embodiment. A clamping element 7, e.g. a
clamping screw, is adjustably arranged in the leg 6 in at least one
threaded bore. The clamping element e.g. can be adjusted by
screwing. A depression 10 for the flat cable 2 (FIG. 1) may be
provided, as shown, in the support surface 9. In the depression 10,
in some cases, contacting members 11 may be placed which are fixed
in the housing and into which the flat cable 2 is pressed such that
the contacting members pierce the insulation.
[0065] The clamping profiles have a round cross-section R (a tube
or a solid round profile) and is inserted into an adapter part A
which contacts the support surface 9 with, a flat side 15. In some
cases the adapter part A even may abut at the leg 8. The adapter
part A has a round depression 13 having at least to a large extent
the same radius of curvature as the round cross-section R, and has
side legs 14. The depression 13 extends, e.g., in circular
measurement over 180.degree., or more or less. For setting the
operative position of the yarn feeding device F, e.g. before
tightening the clamping element 7, the housing 3 may be rotated
back and forth about the core axis of the round profile R in the
direction of double arrow 17. The flat cable 2 is pressed by the
flat rear side 15 of the adapter part A into the contacting members
11. In this case the carrying device P may be a ring frame made of
the round cross-section clamping profile 1. On the ring frame also
the other yarn feeding devices F are fixed in the same way. The
adapter part A serves to change the square configuration of the
cut-out 5 to a round configuration.
[0066] For the case that the carrying device P should have a
clamping profile 1 having a square cross-section V or V1 (FIGS. 3,
4) the fixation B can be changed from the round configuration shown
in FIG. 2 to the original square configuration (FIGS. 3 and 4). For
this purpose the adapter part A of FIG. 2 is removed. The clamping
profile 1 then directly contacts the support surface 9 and is
pressed by the clamping element 7 such that the clamping profile 1
also presses the flat cable 10 into the depression 10 and such that
it, in some cases, even is supported at the leg 8.
[0067] In the case of FIG. 4 the square cross-section V1 is thinner
than in FIG. 3. For this reason it is expedient to divide the leg 8
into the leg parts 8a, 8b which are adjustable in relation to one
another in order to allow to change the distance between the freely
ending leg 6 and the support 9. This adjustability e.g. can be
realised via a toothing or even a threaded spindle.
[0068] FIG. 5 indicates another embodiment of the fixation B of the
yarn feeding device F, which fixation allows at least an additional
device adjustment about an axis 21 substantially parallel to the
direction of the leg 8, e.g. further to the left side as shown in
FIG. 5. The fixation B may be a unitary part 16 at which the legs
6, 8 and the support surface 9 as well as the cut-out 5 with the
square configuration are provided. The contacting members 11 in the
depression 10 are placed adjacent to the support surface 9, and are
connected via flexible conductors 19 with a current interface 18 in
the housing 3. Expediently, the flexible contactors 19 are
installed loosely and with excess length such that they compensate
for a rotation of the fixation B about the axis 21 relative to the
housing 3.
[0069] In FIG. 5 a sort of a universal joint J is indicated in
dotted lines between the fixation B and the housing 3, such that
the housing 3, mainly in the case of a square clamping profile 1,
additionally can be adjusted e.g. about an axis which is
perpendicular to the core axis of the clamping profile 1.
[0070] In order to protect the conductors 9 against damage it is
expedient to limit the respective adjustment range. The fixation B
e.g. can be fixed by means of a fastening element 20 in different
adjusted positions. The fastening element 20 expediently should be
accessible from the exterior even when the yarn feeding device F is
mounted (e.g. through a hollow shaft 29). In the universal joint
region cut-outs 25 could be formed for the conductors 19. A
convexly rounded or stepped support 27 could be provided for the
head of the fastening element 20, in order to assure firm fixing in
each adjusted position.
[0071] In FIG. 5B the fixation B has the square configuration for
being fixed e.g. at the clamping profile having the square
cross-section V or V1 (FIG. 3, FIG. 4). In order to change the
fixation B for a round configuration the adapter part A as shown in
FIG. 2 (or the adapter part A shown in FIG. 7) is inserted into the
cut-out 5 and is positioned at the flat rear side 15 on the support
surface 9, before the round cross-section clamping profile 1 is
inserted and is clamped via the clamping element 7. In this case,
if present, the flat cable is pressed into the depression 10.
[0072] FIG. 6 illustrates the arrangement of the fixation B at a
housing side in a top view of the housing 3 of the yarn feeding
device. In this case the axis 21 is highlighted.
[0073] The adapter part A of FIG. 7 differs from the adapter part
of FIG. 2 in that the depression 13' is not round but has a V-shape
and is open upwardly. In some cases, at least one V-flank could be
provided with a structure S or with steps or shoulders, in order to
increase the friction resistance when fixing the yarn feeding
device.
[0074] FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the fixation B which
might be used for the yarn feeding device F in FIG. 5 or in FIG. 2,
respectively, and which fixation shows the inverted principle of
FIGS. 2 and 5. The cut-out 5 basically is formed with a round
configuration, such that it is bounded at two sides by the legs 6
and 8 and by a round (or V-shaped, as in FIG. 7) depression 22 in
the flat support surface 9'. For fixing on a round cross-section R
the clamping profile 3 directly is inserted into the depression 22
and is clamped therein by the clamping element 7. The depression
10' containing the contacting members 11 follows the contour of the
round depression 22. In the case that a flat cable is provided, the
flat cable is pressed by the clamping profile 1 directly into the
depression 10' and onto the contacting members 11. For changing the
fixation B in FIG. 8 an adapter part A' (indicated by dotted lines)
is inserted which has a concave curvature 24 corresponding to the
depression 22 and a flat rear side 23 which is pressed onto the
clamping profile 1 having the square cross-section V or V1 (FIGS.
3, 4). The embodiment of FIG. 8 has a geometric configuration
(thanks to the depression 22 and the support surface 9'), which
basically fits both to a round clamping profile or a square
clamping profile 1, and, in particular, without the necessity of
manipulation with an adapter part A' or A''.
[0075] For the case that there is no flat cable 2 installed on the
clamping profile 1, but that the yarn feeding device is connected
via a separate cable, even a flat plate could be inserted at the
adapter part A' for the square profile in FIG. 8, or the clamping
profile 1 could be inserted directly into the depression 22.
[0076] FIG. 8 shows in dotted lines an adapter part A'' having the
shape of a cylinder section in order to allow to rotate a pressed
on square clamping profile 1 relative to the fixation B at least a
little bit and to allow to adjust the yarn feeding device F
accordingly. In this case a structure S, e.g. ribs or ridges, may
be provided in order to improve the friction engagement or in order
to even positively define several adjustment steps.
[0077] FIG. 9 illustrates an additional function of the adapter
part A e.g. according to FIG. 2. In particular, here the adapter
part A additionally fulfils the function of a holding clip C for
securing the flat cable 2 installed at the round cross-section
clamping profile. Both legs 14 extend e.g. over more than
180.degree. in circular measurement such that by using the
elasticity of the material of the adapter part A the legs can be
snapped on the clamping profile 1. In the flat rear side 15 of the
adapter part A a positioning device 12 for securing the flat cable
2 is provided. The positioning device 12 may be integrally formed
hooks or similar and flexible elements which, preferably, are
formed unitarily with the adapter part A.
[0078] The adapter part A shown in FIG. 9 may be used at locations
where a yarn feeding device has to be fixed. Besides that such
adapter parts A also may be used as holding clips C even at other
locations along the clamping profile 1 for installing the flat
cable 2, i.e. at locations where normally no yarn feeding devices
are fixed or mounted.
[0079] It is expedient to form the adapter part as a plastic
moulded part, preferably as an injection moulded plastic part,
although the adapter part e.g. also could be cut off from an
extruded light metal or plastic profile.
[0080] In the embodiment in FIG. 10 the yarn feeding device F may
be adjusted about the core axis of the square clamping profile 1,
at least within a limited adjustment range. The cut-out 5 has a
square configuration including the flat support surface 9 and, in
some cases, the flat cable depression 10. The adapter part A, which
has been inserted to change to the round configuration, is combined
with a second adapter part A''' which has a convexly rounded rear
side and a flat support surface for the square clamping profile 1.
For this reason the fixation B, provided that the clamping profile
1 remains distant from the leg 8, may be adjusted substantially
around the core axis of the clamping profile 1, and then can be
clamped respectively. Expediently, the rounded surfaces between the
adapter parts A, A''' are formed with structures S in order to
improve the friction engagement, or are even e.g. ribs or teeth,
such that several adjustment steps are defined.
[0081] The embodiment of the yarn feeding device F shown in FIGS.
11 and 12 differs from the preceding embodiments by a fixation B
which can be used universally for mounting the yarn feeding device
F on clamping profiles 1 having differing thicknesses and widths
and as well in the case of a square cross-section or a round
cross-section, and without modifying manipulation and without
disassembly or assembly of components.
[0082] The leg 8 which positions the leg 6 with the clamping
element 7 at the yarn feeding device F is secured at a boss 46 of
the housing 3, e.g. in one of several fixing positions. FIG. 11
shows a fixing position in which a fastening screw is provided in a
threaded bore 34 of the leg 8 (indicated by a cross) such that the
leg 6 maintains a maximum distance from the support surface 9 at
the housing 3. In the case that a shorter distance of the leg 8 is
needed, the screw is inserted in the other bore 33 and the leg 8 is
shifted further inwards than shown in FIG. 11. A pressing plate 31
is movably connected to the clamping element 7, e.g. a clamping
screw. The pressing plate 31 is connected to the clamping element
at an end thereof which extends into the cut-out 8. The pressing
plate 31 (e.g. a stamped sheet metal part having constant
thickness) comprises a depression at the side facing the yarn
feeding device, e.g. a substantially V-shaped depression, which is
formed symmetrically in a cross-section and in relation to an axis
21' of the clamping element 7 (FIG. 12), and which depression
continuously extends over the length of the pressing plate 31 (FIG.
11).
[0083] The opening angle in the depression 35 may amount to about
120.degree.. The opening angle should be larger than 90.degree..
Substantially flat pressing surfaces 36, 37 continue both edges of
the depression 35. The pressing surfaces 36, 37 are positioned in a
common plane which is perpendicular to the axis 21'. The pressing
surfaces 36, 37 are arranged at sideward edge strips of the
pressing plate 31 and terminate e.g. at straight edges 38, 39 which
are parallel to each other.
[0084] In this case the pressing plate 31 may be installed in two
operative positions rotated respectively about 180.degree. about
the axis 21'. In the operative position shown in FIG. 12 in solid
lines, the edge 38 and the inner wall of the cut-out 5 define a
tilted position adjustment gap 44 of a certain dimension, since the
edge strip with the pressing surface 36 is narrower than the edge
strip with the pressing surface 37. In the other operative
position, which is indicated in FIG. 12 in dotted lines (shown in
FIG. 15 in solid lines) the other edge 39 and the wall of the
cut-outs 5 define a narrow guiding gap 45 only.
[0085] The pressing plate 31 is movably connected with the clamping
element 7, preferably by means of a form-fit coupling 40, such that
the pressing plate 31 may carry out tilting motions at least in the
direction of a double arrow 42, and such that the clamping element
7 always can be rotated relative to the pressing plate 31 about the
axis 21'. The plan view in FIG. 14 shows a rectangular or square
contour shape of the pressing plate 31. The longitudinal extension
of the pressing plate 31 is larger than the width of the leg 6, and
such that the pressing plate 31 protrudes from both lateral sides
of the cut-out 5. The pressing plate 31 e.g. may be a section of an
endless profile.
[0086] The coupling 40 e.g. is formed such that a thread-free end
pin 41 penetrates a bore of the pressing plate 1. The end pin 41
continues the threaded stem of the clamping element 7 via a
shoulder 51. The end pin 41 may be swaged or riveted in the
interior of the depression 35. The bore is located at the deepest
location of the depression 35 and e.g. in the longitudinal mid
region of the pressing plate 31.
[0087] A support 31 is movably guided in FIGS. 11 and 12 on the leg
8 in the direction of the leg 8. The support plate 32 has, e.g., as
well a rectangular or square contour and has, in FIGS. 11 and 12,
constant thickness. The support plate 32 serves to be set on the
flat support surface 9 of the yarn feeding device, in order to hold
the flat cable 2 (FIGS. 15, 13) in the depression 12 and at the
same time to transfer the contact pressure on the support surface
9.
[0088] In FIG. 13 the yarn feeding device F is mounted by the
fixation B on a clamping profile 1 having a round cross-section R.
The round cross-section R contacts the depression 35 at two spaced
apart, linear contact regions, and contacts the support plate 32 on
one side of the contact plate 32, such that the support plate 32
rests with the other side on the support surface 9. The yarn
feeding device F may be fixed in the respective desired rotary
position about the core axis of the clamping profile 1 (as
indicated by double arrow 17).
[0089] In FIG. 14, the yarn feeding device F is fixed in a pivoted
position relative to the round cross-section clamping profile. In
this case the pressing plate 31 also is rotated within the
dimension of the gap 44 (FIG. 12). This adjustment possibility of
differently tilted positions is indicated by double arrow 30.
[0090] The fixation B is designed such that it fits to round
cross-sections R having differing diameters. In the case of a
smaller diameter than shown the leg 8 could be secured at the
deeper position within the boss 46.
[0091] In FIG. 15 the yarn feeding device F is fixed by the
fixation B at the clamping profile 1 having a square cross-section
V, such that the storage body points downwardly. The pressing
surface 36, 37 rest on the clamping profile 1. The support plate 32
rests on the support surface 9. The pressing plate 31 is placed in
the other operative position in which the edge 39 defines the
narrow guiding gap 54 with the wall of the cut-out 5, such that the
pressing plate 31 cannot be rotated markedly about the axis 21' of
the clamping element 7. Furthermore, the leg 8 is secured in FIG.
15 in the lower position at the boss 46. Incidentally, the support
32 even, e.g. in the case of a very high square cross-section V,
could be omitted such that then the square cross-section directly
rests on the support surface 9.
[0092] The support plate 32 is guided at the leg 8 e.g. with a
clearance, and, in particular, in a sort of a dovetail guidance.
Hook-shaped parts 48 of the support plate 32 grip behind undercut
guiding edges 47 of the leg 8 such that the support plate 32 can be
moved in the direction along the leg 8 without the possibility of
getting lost. This, furthermore, is the direction along which the
bores 33, 34 follow one another. The leg 8 could have a square
cross-section such that then the dovetail guidance is formed
between the support plate 32 and the not undercut side edges of the
leg 8.
[0093] FIG. 7 shows, contrary to the support plate 32 in FIGS. 11,
12, 13 and 15, a support plate 32' which has a wedge-shaped
cross-section, e.g. such that the thickness of the support plate
32' decreases with distance from the part 48. Even in case of a
square clamping profile the yarn feeding device F could be mounted
with this support plate 32' somewhat rotated such that the axis 21'
of the clamping element and, in some cases, also the axis of the
yarn feeding device, is somewhat inclined in relation to the
vertical direction 50 as e.g. defined by the clamping profile.
[0094] FIG. 18 illustrates a support plate 32'' which also has a
wedge-shaped cross-section in order to allow the above-mentioned
rotation of the yarn feeding device on the clamping profile 1
having a square cross-section V, namely by using the tiltability of
the pressing plate 31 at the clamping element. However, in order to
avoid lateral forces on the upper side of the support plate (as
with the support plate 32') when fixing the same fixation B on a
round cross-section R, the support plate 32'' is provided with a
V-shaped depression 49 for round cross-sections. For abutment on a
square cross-section flat surface areas are provided at both sides
of the depression 49.
[0095] When using the support plate 32' or 32'' in place of the
support plate 32 in FIG. 15, the yarn feeding device F could be
mounted such that it e.g. is rotated clockwise relative to the
clamping profile 1.
[0096] Incidentally, the respective support plate 32 (32', 32'')
can be removed from the fixation B by pulling the support plate off
from the leg 8 after disassembling the leg 8 from the boss 46.
[0097] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate a further detail variant of an
embodiment which is designed such that it allows to position the
yarn feeding device as in FIG. 15 on a square cross-section V, and
also to allow a rotated positioning corresponding to FIG. 17. In
this case the support plate 32 is divided into two support plates
32', 32''', each of which has such a wedge-shaped cross-section
that both support plates 32', 32''' define in the combination
according to FIG. 19 sides which are parallel to each other and are
perpendicular to the axis 21', while the support plates are
combined in the other operative position as shown in FIG. 20, e.g.
by rotating the lower support plate 32''' over 180.degree., so that
both sides of the combined support plates form an angle with each
other. Then one side will be e.g. oriented perpendicular to the
vertical direction 50, while the other side will be oriented
perpendicular to the axis 21'. By using this combination the yarn
feeding device F can be mounted on the square cross-section e.g. of
FIG. 15 in a position which in relation to the position as shown in
FIG. 15 is rotated in clockwise direction.
* * * * *