CA1038359A - Yarn tension device - Google Patents
Yarn tension deviceInfo
- Publication number
- CA1038359A CA1038359A CA281,288A CA281288A CA1038359A CA 1038359 A CA1038359 A CA 1038359A CA 281288 A CA281288 A CA 281288A CA 1038359 A CA1038359 A CA 1038359A
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- passageway
- yarn
- seat
- spherical element
- tension device
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Abstract
Abstract of the Disclosure A tension device which comprises a housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, which passageway has a large diameter section and a small diameter section. An outer end of the large diameter section of the passageway is provided with rounded abrasion resistant corners. An uninterrupted seat is provided along the passageway at the junction of the large and small diameter sections and has an opening therethrough. The seat receives a spherical element thereat and holds the spherical element out of contact with walls of the large diameter section of the passageway when no yarn is passing through the opening.
The seat has surfaces around the opening with a radius of curva-ture opposite the curvature of the spherical element. A spheri-cal element is received in the large diameter section of the passageway. A spherical element has a diameter which is less than the length of the large diameter section. The large diameter sec-tion has a diameter adjacent the seat to prohibit substantial lat-eral movement of the spherical element received thereat.
The seat has surfaces around the opening with a radius of curva-ture opposite the curvature of the spherical element. A spheri-cal element is received in the large diameter section of the passageway. A spherical element has a diameter which is less than the length of the large diameter section. The large diameter sec-tion has a diameter adjacent the seat to prohibit substantial lat-eral movement of the spherical element received thereat.
Description
1038~359 The present invention relates to a yarn tensioning device for tensioning a running length of textile yarn.
This application is a division of application Serial No. 183,029 filed October 10th, 1973.
BACKGROUND OF THE I~VENTIO~
Numerous devices have heretofore been produced for the tensioning of a running length of textile yarn. Further, certain of these devices have incorporated the use of a spherical element such as a ball which is received in a conical support I0 through which yarn passes. The weight of the ball thus rests on the support, impeding the progress of yarn passing there-between. These prior art devices have, however, been deficient - for numerous reasons. For example, the majority of the devices are substantially enclosed, thus impeding feeding of yarn there-through. Further, other of the devices are restricted to parti-cular types of yarn. Still further, other devices operate on a principle different from that of the instant invention, though a yarn passageway and a spherical element is involved.
According to a broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tensioning device which comprises a housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, which passage-way has a large diameter section and a small diameter section.
An outer end of the large diameter section of the passageway is provided with rounded abrasion resistant corners. An uninter-rupted seat is provided along the passageway at the junction of the large and small diameter sections and has an opening there-through. The seat receives a spherical element thereat and holds the spherical element out of contact with walls of the large dia-meter section of the passageway when no yarn is passing through the opening. The seat has surfaces around the opening with a radius of curvature opposite the curvature of the spherical ele-ment. A spherical element is received in the large diameter sec-~ - 2 - ~ ~
tion of the passageway. A spherical element has a diameter which is less than the length of the large diameter section. The large diameter section has a diameter adjacent the seat to prohibit substantial lateral movement of the spherical element received thereat.
The prior art is devoid of any teaching or suggestion of the present invention. Exemplary of the prior art are U.S.
Patents 112,501 to Sargent et al; 1,408,560 to Bingham et al, 1,432,399 to Land; 1,490,512 to Hill et al; 1,785,987 to Stewart; 2,222,921 to Van Den Bergh; 2,373,513 to Stevenson,
This application is a division of application Serial No. 183,029 filed October 10th, 1973.
BACKGROUND OF THE I~VENTIO~
Numerous devices have heretofore been produced for the tensioning of a running length of textile yarn. Further, certain of these devices have incorporated the use of a spherical element such as a ball which is received in a conical support I0 through which yarn passes. The weight of the ball thus rests on the support, impeding the progress of yarn passing there-between. These prior art devices have, however, been deficient - for numerous reasons. For example, the majority of the devices are substantially enclosed, thus impeding feeding of yarn there-through. Further, other of the devices are restricted to parti-cular types of yarn. Still further, other devices operate on a principle different from that of the instant invention, though a yarn passageway and a spherical element is involved.
According to a broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tensioning device which comprises a housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, which passage-way has a large diameter section and a small diameter section.
An outer end of the large diameter section of the passageway is provided with rounded abrasion resistant corners. An uninter-rupted seat is provided along the passageway at the junction of the large and small diameter sections and has an opening there-through. The seat receives a spherical element thereat and holds the spherical element out of contact with walls of the large dia-meter section of the passageway when no yarn is passing through the opening. The seat has surfaces around the opening with a radius of curvature opposite the curvature of the spherical ele-ment. A spherical element is received in the large diameter sec-~ - 2 - ~ ~
tion of the passageway. A spherical element has a diameter which is less than the length of the large diameter section. The large diameter section has a diameter adjacent the seat to prohibit substantial lateral movement of the spherical element received thereat.
The prior art is devoid of any teaching or suggestion of the present invention. Exemplary of the prior art are U.S.
Patents 112,501 to Sargent et al; 1,408,560 to Bingham et al, 1,432,399 to Land; 1,490,512 to Hill et al; 1,785,987 to Stewart; 2,222,921 to Van Den Bergh; 2,373,513 to Stevenson,
2,492,778 to Agresti et al, 2,677,511 to Bley, and 3,309,858 to Franzen and German Patent 1,061,239 to Colo.
SUMMARY OF THE I~VENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved yarn tensioning device.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved integral device for tensioning of a running length of textile yarn.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an improved yarn tension device that employs a spher-ical element to tension the yarn and has an abrasion resistant upper surface.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide an improved tension device that employs a plurality of different size spherical elements to tension a yarn.
Still further, another object of the present inven-tion is to provide an improved process for the tensioning of a running length of textile yarn.
103~359 Generally speaking, the device of the present inven-tion comprises a housing, said housing having a yarn passage-way extending therethrough. An annular seat is provided in said passageway and receives a spherical element thereat. A
spherical element received completely in said passageway re-sides at said seat, being out of contact with side walls of said passageway thereat.
The yarn passageway may comprise large, medium and small diameter sections with an insert being received in the small diameter section and providing the annular seat at the junction of the small and medium diameter sections. In this embodiment, all side walls are preferably straight with a taper at the junction of the large and medium diameter sections.
Dimensions are such that the medium diameter section which borders the spherical element at the seat prevents any sub-stantial lateral movement of the element away from the seat.
Likewise, the configuration of the passageway may take other forms as shown in the Figures. For instance, the passageway above the seat, may be straight walled down to or below the seat, may taper inwardly toward the seat, or the like.
The yarn passageway extends above the spherical element received therein and appreciably above the spherical element in certain arrangements. As such, the spherical ele-ment or elements will not be forced out the top of the housing during normal operation of the device. A possibility does`
exist, however, that an operator may strike the bottom of the device and cause the one or more of the spherical elements to fly out the top of the yarn passageway. To preclude this even-tuality, a collar may be provided for the present device having a small arm that extends at least partially across the top of the passageway. The arm does not block the passageway, has smooth streamlined surfaces to prevent damage to yarn passing `~ 1038359 therethrough; does not collect waste; and is movable around the housing for placement to accommodate the particular yarn being tensioned.
Moreover, while the device of the present invention is designed to preclude collection of waste, even with the spherical element retarding arm, it is sometimes desirable to clean the device. Likewise, it is always desirable to know that the device is functioning properly, that the desired number and desired siæe spherical elements are being utilized.
A tension device having a transparent housing readily permits visual inspection of the device during operation. A trans-parent housing may thus be fabricated, preferably by molding from a transparent plastic material, followed by placement of a seat insert and preferably a top insert therein.
One embodiment of the present invention employs an abrasion resistant upper surface, around the top of the passageway. The abrasion resistant surface may be provided by an annular abrasion resistant ceramic insert, for example, or may be a material from which the housing of the device is fabricated. The annular seat is also preferably abrasion resistant and may take the form of a ceramic insert, for example, or be an integral part of the housing.
Certain yarns are very kinky, curly or the like due to the process by which it has been textured, the particular type of yarn and/or off target process conditions. These yarns may experience difficulty in being appropriately ten-sioned to exit the device in a relaxed condition. A further embodiment of the present invention thus utilizes the general device of the present invention plus a further large spherical element that does not fit within the yarn passageway, but resides at the top of the yarn passageway. The large spherical element makes contact with the rounded upper end of the passage-way and entraps the yarn thereat. Preferably, the abrasionresistant insert is employed and functions as a seat for the large spherical element. Moreover, since the large spherical element rests atop the device of the present invention it is quite desirable to further employ means thereat to loosely hold the large spherical element atop the device.
Appropriate mounting means are also preferably secured to the housing and are employed to secure the device to a portion of a yarn handling textile machine. A preferred mounting means is a bracket that is integral with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom transverse to the direction of the passageway. An elongated slot that is axial with respect to the bracket extends therealong, whereby the tension device may be secured at a predetermined position on the yarn handling machine so as to receive a yarn passing therethrough. Like-wise, a separate mounting means may be securable to the housing at different angles to permit custom mounting of the device for the particular machine on which it is to be fixed. Most yarn handling machines have a large number of adjacent yarn positions thereon. Each of the positions would thus be equip-ped with an individual tension device according to the teach-ings of the present invention.
Feeding of yarn into the tension device of the present invention is quite quick and simple. Compressed air may be introduced at the lower end of the device into the yarn passageway. The compressed air overcomes the weight of the spherical element and forces the element off the seat into the passageway thereabove. While the element remains suspended ~ - 6 -`: ~
-1038359 ' in air, yarn may be placed at the entrance to the passageway and is picked up by the air stream and carried therewith, passing around the spherical element and out the opposite upper end of the device. The pressurized air is then removed and the spherical element falls back towards the seat and entraps the yarn against the seat. Thereafter, as the yarn begins to move, the force of the moving yarn partially overcomes the weight of the spherical element and forces the element upwardly by a predetermined amount. Generally, the spherical element pivots upwardly at the side opposite the yarn and rolls at the seat with the yarn passing therearound. It should be further pointed out that the size and weight of the inside spherical elements are predetermined with respect to the physical dimensions of the passageway such that when the spherical element is present at the seat, it is out of contact with the walls of the passageway and yarn may pass therearound without sufficient force to expel the spherical element from within the housing. The upper end of the passageway may thus be unrestricted, though certain - 6a -embodiments of the present invention include a barrier and/or a large spherical element thereat.
Yarn may also be fed through the present tension de-vice by affixing the yarn to a thin elongated instrument and pushing the instrument upwardly through the passageway, forcing the spherical element off the seat and passing therearound.
In the embodiment employing the different diameter sections, the medium diameter section performs yet another func-tion. In many situations it becomes desirable to angularly dis-pose the tension device with respect to vertical. The restricted dimensions of the medium diameter section of the passageway, both diameter and length, thus hold the spherical element over the seat and in proper position for tensioning the yarn regard-less of whether the device is in a vertical position or angular-ly disposed.
The process of the present invention generally in-cludes the steps of feeding a yarn through a passageway having a restricted opening therein, engaging the yarn with a freely ro-tatable spherical element at said restricted opening, said element applying tension thereon and retaining the spherical element ad-jacent the restricted opening during passage of yarn thereby.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side cross sectional view of a yarn tension device according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a top view of the device as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a side cross sectional view of a yarn tension device according to the teachings of the present inven-tion illustrating a method of feeding yarn therethrough.
Figure 4 is a side cross sectional view of a yarn tension device according to the present invention illustrating yarn passing therethrough.
Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of a tension device according to the present invention showing a further embodiment thereof.
Figure 6 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 7 and 8 illustrate a holding means that may be employed as a part of the device of the present invention.
Figure 9 illustrates a transparent tension device.
Figures 10 and 11 illustrate a preferred annular seat configuration for the device of the present invention.
Figure 12 illustrates an integral tension device according to the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Making reference to the drawings, preferred embodi-ments of the present invention will now be described in detail.
Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a tension control device according to the present invention generally indicated as 10. Tension control device 10 is employed on any yarn handling machine at a particular disposition with yarn normally passing therethrough in the direction indicated by the arrows.
Tension device 10 is made up of a housing 12 having a yarn passageway 20 extending completely therethrough. Yarn passageway 20 is comprised of a small diameter section 22, a medium diameter section 24 and a large diameter section 26.
The small diameter section 22 is located at the bottom of housing 12 and has an insert 30 received therein, the purpose of which will be described hereinafter. Insert 30 contains a annular passage 32 extending therethrough and has an upper end 34 that is enlarged to the approximate size of medium diameter passageway section 24 and defines a seat thereat. A11 of the surfaces on insert 30 that come into contact with yarn are smooth with rounded edges, and preferably, insert 30 is manu-factured of a ceramic composite that exhibits long wear characteristics when in constant engagement with a moving textile yarn.
A spherical element 40 is received in passageway 20 and resides in medium diameter section 24 on seat 34 of insert 30. Spherical element 40 is preferably a stainless steel ball of a predetermined weight and diameter relative to the diameters of medium diameter section 24 and large diameter section 26 of tubular passageway 20. In this fashion, spher-ical element 40 closely approximates the diameter of mid section 24 so as to be held on seat 34 against lateral movement therefrom. As such, should it become desirable to position tension device 10 angularly with respect to vertical, spherical element 40 will not roll off seat 34. In fact, tension device 10 may be positioned at an angle of approximately 70 degrees on either side of vertical before element 40 moves off seat 34.
Large diameter section 26 of tubular passageway 20 has a diameter that substantially exceeds the diameter of spherical element 40, the purpose of which will be defined hereinafter. At the junction of sections 24 and 26 of passageway 20, tapered wall sections 28 are provided. The remainder of the passageway areas, are preferably straight, though the walls of section 26 may taper gradually outwardly from the junction with section 24. Hence, when spherical element 40 is up within large diameter section 26, and pressure thereon is removed, element 40 falls by gravity to the bottom of section 26, and is guided by tapered walls 28 into medium diameter section 24 to properly reside on seat 34 of insert 30.
Also making reference to Figures 1 and 2, a mounting means 50 is secured to housing 12 so as to facilitate securement _ g _ of device 10 to the yarn handling machine. As il]ustrated in the Figures, the preferred embodiment is a bracket 50 which has an elongated slot 52 extending therealong. Tension device 10 may thus be adjustably mounted with respect to the source of yarn and/or the delivery point on the yarn handling machine (not shown). The particular yarn handling machines that may suitably use the device of the present invention are well with-in the purview of one skilled in the art and illustration thereof is not believed necessary.
Figure 3 illustrates a tension device according to the present invention as might appear during one method for feeding of a yarn therethrough. The device has a housing 112 through which extends a tubular passageway 120. Tubular passageway 120 has a plurality of sections 122, 124, and 126 in the sense as stated with respect to Figure 1. Furthermore, an insert 130 is received in section 122 of tubular passageway 120 and defines a seat 134 in mid section 124 of passageway 120. To feed a yarn into the device, an air nozzle 160 is provided adjacent the passageway 132 through insert 130 so as to apply pressurized air against spherical element 140. The pressure of the air thus lifts spherical element 140 off seat 134 and carries same into large diameter section 126 of tubular passageway 120. When in the large diameter section 126, there is sufficient difference in the diameter of section 126 and the diameter of spherical element 140 that the pressure behind the air dissipates around spherical element 140 without forcing same out of housing 112. A restraining member is thus not required on the tension device and the upper end of passageway 120 is unobstructed. Further, the outer edges 127 of section 126 are rounded to avoid damage to yarn passing thereover. So long as the pressurized air continues, however, spherical element 140 remains suspended in the air ~03B359 stream, and an end of yarn Y is passed upwardly through annulus 132 of insert 130 into the air stream therein. Once in the air stream, the air pressure carries yarn Y up through seat 134 and beyond spherical element 140. Thereafter, the pressurized air is removed, after which spherical element 140 returns to seat 134, entrapping yarn Y between spherical element 140 and the wall of tubular passageway 120 as shown in Figure 4. As mentioned above, yarn may also be pushed through the device with a thin elongated instrument.
Figure 4 thus illustrates the tension control or braking of the yarn passing through the device 210. During movement of yarn Y, a proper tension is applied thereto, while upon yarn stoppage, the element entraps yarn Y and acts as a brake. Thus, as yarn Y passes through passageway 220 in housing 212, the yarn engages spherical element 240 and possibly the inside wall of the passageway above seat 234 and passes there-between. The predetermined weight and size of spherical element 240 thus applies a set amount of tension on the yarn without producing undue drag thereon, though, if desired, more than one element 240 may be used. This is accomplished by the spherical shape of element 240 which rotates in tubular passageway 220 as yarn Y passes thereby. Moreover, as spherical element 240 is lifted off seat 234 and resides in sections 224 and 226 of tubular passageway 220, the weight of element 240 causes same to continually apply force in the downward direction. As element 240 moves around and has a tendency to move away from seat 224, gravitational force on element 240 in the direction of seat 234, constantly maintains the desired tension on yarn Y.
Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment wherein a tension device 310 is made up of a housing 312 having a yarn passageway 320 extending completely therethrough. Yarn passageway 320 as illustrated in Figure 5 is comprised of a small diameter section 322, a medium diameter section 324 and a large diameter section 326. The small diameter section 322 is located at the bottom of housiny 312 and has an insert 330 received therein, the purpose of which will be described hereinafter. Insert 330 contains an annular passage or opening 332 extending therethrough and has an upper end 334 that is enlarged to the approximate size of medium diameter passageway section 324 and defines an uninterrupted annular seat thereat. All surfaces on insert 330 that come into contact with yarn are smooth with rounded edges and preferably, insert 330 is manufactured of a ceramic composite that exhibits long wear characteristics when in constant engagement with a moving textile yarn. Upper end 334 of insert 330 has a radius of curvature extending outwardly from opening 332. As such, a spherical element 340 residing on seat 334 makes tangential, point type contact around opening 332, since the curvature of element 340 is opposite the curvature of seat 334. Hence a yarn passing between spherlcal element 340 and seat 332 will cause element 340 to pivot upwardly about seat 334 instead of completely leaving seat 334 in situations where flat or conical seat surfaces are utilized.
Knots, twists, and the like in the yarn may thus pass element 340 without an~ substantial loss of tension control. Passageway 320 is provided at its upper end 327 with an abrasion resistant material having smooth rounded edges. Housing 312 has a cutaway path 327' at upper end 327 with a mating insert 329 received therein and providing a smooth continuation of passageway 320.
Figures 10 and 11 better illustrate the preferred relationship between spherical element 340 and seat 334. As mentioned above, seat 334 is uninterrupted around annular opening 332 and curved around annular opening 332 in a direction opposite the curvature of spherical element 340. A
peripheral contact is thus made at tangential points around - element 340 and seat 334. Thus as shown in Fiyure 11, when a '- ' 1038359 thick spot, knit, curl, twist or the like appears in yarn ~, spherical element 340 pivots or rocks around the point of contact with seat 334 opposite the yarn Y while continuing to maintain tensioning contact with yarn Y. After passage of the flaw by element 340, element 340 rocks or pivots back to the original position as shown in Figure 11. Movement of element 340 is illustrated by the double headed arrow. This action of spherical element 340 permits constant tension control on yarn Y as the yarn passes through the tension device.
Internal configuration of the yarn passageway may vary as illustrated in Figures 1, 9 and 12. In Figure 1, passageway 20 is shown having three different diameter sections 22, 24 and 26, while in Figures 9 and 12 only two sections are provided. Moreover, other variations such as sloped walls and the like may be ernployed so long as the proper relationship is maintained between the spherical element and the seat as described herein.
Figure 6 illustrates a further embodiment of a tension system according to the present invention that is particularly useful in handling yarns that exhibit a high degree of crinkling when relaxed. The device has a housing 412 through which extends a tubular passageway 420. Tubular passageway 420 has a plurality of sections 422, 424 and 426 in the sense as stated with respect to Figure 1. Furthermore, a seat 434 is received in section 422 of tubular passageway 420 and is integral with housing 412. One or more spherical elements 440 (two are illustrated) are received inside passageway 420 with the lower element 440 being received on seat 434. Additionally, a large spherical element 460 is located outside passageway 420 and is received atop same at rounded top corners 429 which define an outside seat. Large spherical element 460 further controls yarn passing thereby and permits a very crinkly yarn to exit the device completely relaxed and straight. Since large spherical element 460 is ~ a3s3ss .
received atop housing 412 outside of passageway 420, it is further preferable to employ a means in conjunction therewith to prevent removal of spherical element 460 from its outside seat while permitting free rotation of same thereat. A holding means 470 is illustrated to maintain spherical element 460 in its proper position and comprises a collar 472 positioned around housing 412, having a member 474 extending above large spherical element 460 and at least partially across same.
Holding means 470 is of course removably received around housing 412. Holding means 470 may be a flat member as illustrated in Figure 6, may take the form described herein-after with respect to Figures 7 and 8, or may be of other designs.
Figures 7 and 8 illustrate a further embodiment of the tension device of the present invention. A portion of a housing 412 is shown having a yarn passageway 420 therethrough with a top insert 429 received at the upper end thereof. A
collar 450 is removably received around at least a portion of insert 429 of housing 412 and is capable of rotary movement thereat. An arm 452 is secured to collar 450 and extends at least partially across the upper end of passageway 420. While normal operation of the tension device of the present invention will not dislodge the spherical element or elements from the passageway, a blow to the lower end of the housing can propel the element out. As such, rernovable barrier means may be desired. When the barrier is-used, however, yarn passing out from the passageway will avoid arm 452 whereby no frictional or tension problems result. Furthermore, should the yarn engage arm 452, all contact surfaces are smooth and rounded, and further, arm 452 may be rotated away from the yarn path, out of contact with the yarn. Preferably, arm 452 is wedge shaped as shown in Figures 7 and 8 and extends progressively 103~359 downwardly into passageway 420 towards the terminal end thereof.
Figure 9 represents yet another embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, a housing 512 is produced from a transparent material and is preferably molded from a plastic material that yields a transparent product. Seat insert 530 and top insert 52g will, however, be manufactured of an abrasion resistant material such as aluminum o~ide, Transparency of housing 512 permits ready visual inspection of the device during operation whereby one can ascertain that the passageway is free of lint and other undesirables, that the correct number and size spherical elements are being used, and generally that the device is functioning properly.
Figure 12 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. A tension device 610 is shown having a housing 612 with a passageway 620 extending therethrough.
Passageway 620 has a small diameter section 622 and a large diameter section 626. An annular seat 634 is integral with housing 612 and positioned adjacent the junction of passageway sections 622 and 626, with section 622 passing therethrough.
Seat 634 is provided with a continuous arc emanating from passageway section 622 and extending outwardly therefrom. A
spherical element 640 is receivable in large section 626 of passageway 620 and normally resides at seat 634, making tangential contact with seat 634 therearound. Yarn passes through section 622 of passageway 620, between spherical element 640 and seat 634 and through passageway section 626.
The weight of spherical element 640 applies force against the yarn and constantly tensions same against seat 634.
While the various embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in certain Figures, the individual components of the embodiments are generally interchangeable. For instance, in these figures where an insert is shown at the top of the device, an integral constructed device may also be employed, and vice versa.
The tension device according to the present invention may be manufactured as desired from any suitable material that will withstand the abrasion caused by yarn passin~ thereover without being damaged, or without causing damage to the yarn.
Plastic materials are very suitable due to the ease of use in manufacture of the device and the economics thereof. Injection molding is thus quite acceptable as a manufacturing technique for producing the instant tension device. As mentioned above, however, ceramic com~osites are preferred for the inserts due to the expected wear at that particular part of the device, along with a stainless steel spherical element. ~ikewise, as mentioned above, the housing and both inserts may be of integral construction, preferably being manufactured of an abrasion resistant material such as aluminum oxide.
Having described the present invention in detail, it is obvious that one skilled in the art will be able to make variations and modifications thereto without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be determined only by the claims appended hereto.
SUMMARY OF THE I~VENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved yarn tensioning device.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved integral device for tensioning of a running length of textile yarn.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an improved yarn tension device that employs a spher-ical element to tension the yarn and has an abrasion resistant upper surface.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide an improved tension device that employs a plurality of different size spherical elements to tension a yarn.
Still further, another object of the present inven-tion is to provide an improved process for the tensioning of a running length of textile yarn.
103~359 Generally speaking, the device of the present inven-tion comprises a housing, said housing having a yarn passage-way extending therethrough. An annular seat is provided in said passageway and receives a spherical element thereat. A
spherical element received completely in said passageway re-sides at said seat, being out of contact with side walls of said passageway thereat.
The yarn passageway may comprise large, medium and small diameter sections with an insert being received in the small diameter section and providing the annular seat at the junction of the small and medium diameter sections. In this embodiment, all side walls are preferably straight with a taper at the junction of the large and medium diameter sections.
Dimensions are such that the medium diameter section which borders the spherical element at the seat prevents any sub-stantial lateral movement of the element away from the seat.
Likewise, the configuration of the passageway may take other forms as shown in the Figures. For instance, the passageway above the seat, may be straight walled down to or below the seat, may taper inwardly toward the seat, or the like.
The yarn passageway extends above the spherical element received therein and appreciably above the spherical element in certain arrangements. As such, the spherical ele-ment or elements will not be forced out the top of the housing during normal operation of the device. A possibility does`
exist, however, that an operator may strike the bottom of the device and cause the one or more of the spherical elements to fly out the top of the yarn passageway. To preclude this even-tuality, a collar may be provided for the present device having a small arm that extends at least partially across the top of the passageway. The arm does not block the passageway, has smooth streamlined surfaces to prevent damage to yarn passing `~ 1038359 therethrough; does not collect waste; and is movable around the housing for placement to accommodate the particular yarn being tensioned.
Moreover, while the device of the present invention is designed to preclude collection of waste, even with the spherical element retarding arm, it is sometimes desirable to clean the device. Likewise, it is always desirable to know that the device is functioning properly, that the desired number and desired siæe spherical elements are being utilized.
A tension device having a transparent housing readily permits visual inspection of the device during operation. A trans-parent housing may thus be fabricated, preferably by molding from a transparent plastic material, followed by placement of a seat insert and preferably a top insert therein.
One embodiment of the present invention employs an abrasion resistant upper surface, around the top of the passageway. The abrasion resistant surface may be provided by an annular abrasion resistant ceramic insert, for example, or may be a material from which the housing of the device is fabricated. The annular seat is also preferably abrasion resistant and may take the form of a ceramic insert, for example, or be an integral part of the housing.
Certain yarns are very kinky, curly or the like due to the process by which it has been textured, the particular type of yarn and/or off target process conditions. These yarns may experience difficulty in being appropriately ten-sioned to exit the device in a relaxed condition. A further embodiment of the present invention thus utilizes the general device of the present invention plus a further large spherical element that does not fit within the yarn passageway, but resides at the top of the yarn passageway. The large spherical element makes contact with the rounded upper end of the passage-way and entraps the yarn thereat. Preferably, the abrasionresistant insert is employed and functions as a seat for the large spherical element. Moreover, since the large spherical element rests atop the device of the present invention it is quite desirable to further employ means thereat to loosely hold the large spherical element atop the device.
Appropriate mounting means are also preferably secured to the housing and are employed to secure the device to a portion of a yarn handling textile machine. A preferred mounting means is a bracket that is integral with the housing and extends outwardly therefrom transverse to the direction of the passageway. An elongated slot that is axial with respect to the bracket extends therealong, whereby the tension device may be secured at a predetermined position on the yarn handling machine so as to receive a yarn passing therethrough. Like-wise, a separate mounting means may be securable to the housing at different angles to permit custom mounting of the device for the particular machine on which it is to be fixed. Most yarn handling machines have a large number of adjacent yarn positions thereon. Each of the positions would thus be equip-ped with an individual tension device according to the teach-ings of the present invention.
Feeding of yarn into the tension device of the present invention is quite quick and simple. Compressed air may be introduced at the lower end of the device into the yarn passageway. The compressed air overcomes the weight of the spherical element and forces the element off the seat into the passageway thereabove. While the element remains suspended ~ - 6 -`: ~
-1038359 ' in air, yarn may be placed at the entrance to the passageway and is picked up by the air stream and carried therewith, passing around the spherical element and out the opposite upper end of the device. The pressurized air is then removed and the spherical element falls back towards the seat and entraps the yarn against the seat. Thereafter, as the yarn begins to move, the force of the moving yarn partially overcomes the weight of the spherical element and forces the element upwardly by a predetermined amount. Generally, the spherical element pivots upwardly at the side opposite the yarn and rolls at the seat with the yarn passing therearound. It should be further pointed out that the size and weight of the inside spherical elements are predetermined with respect to the physical dimensions of the passageway such that when the spherical element is present at the seat, it is out of contact with the walls of the passageway and yarn may pass therearound without sufficient force to expel the spherical element from within the housing. The upper end of the passageway may thus be unrestricted, though certain - 6a -embodiments of the present invention include a barrier and/or a large spherical element thereat.
Yarn may also be fed through the present tension de-vice by affixing the yarn to a thin elongated instrument and pushing the instrument upwardly through the passageway, forcing the spherical element off the seat and passing therearound.
In the embodiment employing the different diameter sections, the medium diameter section performs yet another func-tion. In many situations it becomes desirable to angularly dis-pose the tension device with respect to vertical. The restricted dimensions of the medium diameter section of the passageway, both diameter and length, thus hold the spherical element over the seat and in proper position for tensioning the yarn regard-less of whether the device is in a vertical position or angular-ly disposed.
The process of the present invention generally in-cludes the steps of feeding a yarn through a passageway having a restricted opening therein, engaging the yarn with a freely ro-tatable spherical element at said restricted opening, said element applying tension thereon and retaining the spherical element ad-jacent the restricted opening during passage of yarn thereby.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side cross sectional view of a yarn tension device according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a top view of the device as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a side cross sectional view of a yarn tension device according to the teachings of the present inven-tion illustrating a method of feeding yarn therethrough.
Figure 4 is a side cross sectional view of a yarn tension device according to the present invention illustrating yarn passing therethrough.
Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of a tension device according to the present invention showing a further embodiment thereof.
Figure 6 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 7 and 8 illustrate a holding means that may be employed as a part of the device of the present invention.
Figure 9 illustrates a transparent tension device.
Figures 10 and 11 illustrate a preferred annular seat configuration for the device of the present invention.
Figure 12 illustrates an integral tension device according to the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Making reference to the drawings, preferred embodi-ments of the present invention will now be described in detail.
Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a tension control device according to the present invention generally indicated as 10. Tension control device 10 is employed on any yarn handling machine at a particular disposition with yarn normally passing therethrough in the direction indicated by the arrows.
Tension device 10 is made up of a housing 12 having a yarn passageway 20 extending completely therethrough. Yarn passageway 20 is comprised of a small diameter section 22, a medium diameter section 24 and a large diameter section 26.
The small diameter section 22 is located at the bottom of housing 12 and has an insert 30 received therein, the purpose of which will be described hereinafter. Insert 30 contains a annular passage 32 extending therethrough and has an upper end 34 that is enlarged to the approximate size of medium diameter passageway section 24 and defines a seat thereat. A11 of the surfaces on insert 30 that come into contact with yarn are smooth with rounded edges, and preferably, insert 30 is manu-factured of a ceramic composite that exhibits long wear characteristics when in constant engagement with a moving textile yarn.
A spherical element 40 is received in passageway 20 and resides in medium diameter section 24 on seat 34 of insert 30. Spherical element 40 is preferably a stainless steel ball of a predetermined weight and diameter relative to the diameters of medium diameter section 24 and large diameter section 26 of tubular passageway 20. In this fashion, spher-ical element 40 closely approximates the diameter of mid section 24 so as to be held on seat 34 against lateral movement therefrom. As such, should it become desirable to position tension device 10 angularly with respect to vertical, spherical element 40 will not roll off seat 34. In fact, tension device 10 may be positioned at an angle of approximately 70 degrees on either side of vertical before element 40 moves off seat 34.
Large diameter section 26 of tubular passageway 20 has a diameter that substantially exceeds the diameter of spherical element 40, the purpose of which will be defined hereinafter. At the junction of sections 24 and 26 of passageway 20, tapered wall sections 28 are provided. The remainder of the passageway areas, are preferably straight, though the walls of section 26 may taper gradually outwardly from the junction with section 24. Hence, when spherical element 40 is up within large diameter section 26, and pressure thereon is removed, element 40 falls by gravity to the bottom of section 26, and is guided by tapered walls 28 into medium diameter section 24 to properly reside on seat 34 of insert 30.
Also making reference to Figures 1 and 2, a mounting means 50 is secured to housing 12 so as to facilitate securement _ g _ of device 10 to the yarn handling machine. As il]ustrated in the Figures, the preferred embodiment is a bracket 50 which has an elongated slot 52 extending therealong. Tension device 10 may thus be adjustably mounted with respect to the source of yarn and/or the delivery point on the yarn handling machine (not shown). The particular yarn handling machines that may suitably use the device of the present invention are well with-in the purview of one skilled in the art and illustration thereof is not believed necessary.
Figure 3 illustrates a tension device according to the present invention as might appear during one method for feeding of a yarn therethrough. The device has a housing 112 through which extends a tubular passageway 120. Tubular passageway 120 has a plurality of sections 122, 124, and 126 in the sense as stated with respect to Figure 1. Furthermore, an insert 130 is received in section 122 of tubular passageway 120 and defines a seat 134 in mid section 124 of passageway 120. To feed a yarn into the device, an air nozzle 160 is provided adjacent the passageway 132 through insert 130 so as to apply pressurized air against spherical element 140. The pressure of the air thus lifts spherical element 140 off seat 134 and carries same into large diameter section 126 of tubular passageway 120. When in the large diameter section 126, there is sufficient difference in the diameter of section 126 and the diameter of spherical element 140 that the pressure behind the air dissipates around spherical element 140 without forcing same out of housing 112. A restraining member is thus not required on the tension device and the upper end of passageway 120 is unobstructed. Further, the outer edges 127 of section 126 are rounded to avoid damage to yarn passing thereover. So long as the pressurized air continues, however, spherical element 140 remains suspended in the air ~03B359 stream, and an end of yarn Y is passed upwardly through annulus 132 of insert 130 into the air stream therein. Once in the air stream, the air pressure carries yarn Y up through seat 134 and beyond spherical element 140. Thereafter, the pressurized air is removed, after which spherical element 140 returns to seat 134, entrapping yarn Y between spherical element 140 and the wall of tubular passageway 120 as shown in Figure 4. As mentioned above, yarn may also be pushed through the device with a thin elongated instrument.
Figure 4 thus illustrates the tension control or braking of the yarn passing through the device 210. During movement of yarn Y, a proper tension is applied thereto, while upon yarn stoppage, the element entraps yarn Y and acts as a brake. Thus, as yarn Y passes through passageway 220 in housing 212, the yarn engages spherical element 240 and possibly the inside wall of the passageway above seat 234 and passes there-between. The predetermined weight and size of spherical element 240 thus applies a set amount of tension on the yarn without producing undue drag thereon, though, if desired, more than one element 240 may be used. This is accomplished by the spherical shape of element 240 which rotates in tubular passageway 220 as yarn Y passes thereby. Moreover, as spherical element 240 is lifted off seat 234 and resides in sections 224 and 226 of tubular passageway 220, the weight of element 240 causes same to continually apply force in the downward direction. As element 240 moves around and has a tendency to move away from seat 224, gravitational force on element 240 in the direction of seat 234, constantly maintains the desired tension on yarn Y.
Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment wherein a tension device 310 is made up of a housing 312 having a yarn passageway 320 extending completely therethrough. Yarn passageway 320 as illustrated in Figure 5 is comprised of a small diameter section 322, a medium diameter section 324 and a large diameter section 326. The small diameter section 322 is located at the bottom of housiny 312 and has an insert 330 received therein, the purpose of which will be described hereinafter. Insert 330 contains an annular passage or opening 332 extending therethrough and has an upper end 334 that is enlarged to the approximate size of medium diameter passageway section 324 and defines an uninterrupted annular seat thereat. All surfaces on insert 330 that come into contact with yarn are smooth with rounded edges and preferably, insert 330 is manufactured of a ceramic composite that exhibits long wear characteristics when in constant engagement with a moving textile yarn. Upper end 334 of insert 330 has a radius of curvature extending outwardly from opening 332. As such, a spherical element 340 residing on seat 334 makes tangential, point type contact around opening 332, since the curvature of element 340 is opposite the curvature of seat 334. Hence a yarn passing between spherlcal element 340 and seat 332 will cause element 340 to pivot upwardly about seat 334 instead of completely leaving seat 334 in situations where flat or conical seat surfaces are utilized.
Knots, twists, and the like in the yarn may thus pass element 340 without an~ substantial loss of tension control. Passageway 320 is provided at its upper end 327 with an abrasion resistant material having smooth rounded edges. Housing 312 has a cutaway path 327' at upper end 327 with a mating insert 329 received therein and providing a smooth continuation of passageway 320.
Figures 10 and 11 better illustrate the preferred relationship between spherical element 340 and seat 334. As mentioned above, seat 334 is uninterrupted around annular opening 332 and curved around annular opening 332 in a direction opposite the curvature of spherical element 340. A
peripheral contact is thus made at tangential points around - element 340 and seat 334. Thus as shown in Fiyure 11, when a '- ' 1038359 thick spot, knit, curl, twist or the like appears in yarn ~, spherical element 340 pivots or rocks around the point of contact with seat 334 opposite the yarn Y while continuing to maintain tensioning contact with yarn Y. After passage of the flaw by element 340, element 340 rocks or pivots back to the original position as shown in Figure 11. Movement of element 340 is illustrated by the double headed arrow. This action of spherical element 340 permits constant tension control on yarn Y as the yarn passes through the tension device.
Internal configuration of the yarn passageway may vary as illustrated in Figures 1, 9 and 12. In Figure 1, passageway 20 is shown having three different diameter sections 22, 24 and 26, while in Figures 9 and 12 only two sections are provided. Moreover, other variations such as sloped walls and the like may be ernployed so long as the proper relationship is maintained between the spherical element and the seat as described herein.
Figure 6 illustrates a further embodiment of a tension system according to the present invention that is particularly useful in handling yarns that exhibit a high degree of crinkling when relaxed. The device has a housing 412 through which extends a tubular passageway 420. Tubular passageway 420 has a plurality of sections 422, 424 and 426 in the sense as stated with respect to Figure 1. Furthermore, a seat 434 is received in section 422 of tubular passageway 420 and is integral with housing 412. One or more spherical elements 440 (two are illustrated) are received inside passageway 420 with the lower element 440 being received on seat 434. Additionally, a large spherical element 460 is located outside passageway 420 and is received atop same at rounded top corners 429 which define an outside seat. Large spherical element 460 further controls yarn passing thereby and permits a very crinkly yarn to exit the device completely relaxed and straight. Since large spherical element 460 is ~ a3s3ss .
received atop housing 412 outside of passageway 420, it is further preferable to employ a means in conjunction therewith to prevent removal of spherical element 460 from its outside seat while permitting free rotation of same thereat. A holding means 470 is illustrated to maintain spherical element 460 in its proper position and comprises a collar 472 positioned around housing 412, having a member 474 extending above large spherical element 460 and at least partially across same.
Holding means 470 is of course removably received around housing 412. Holding means 470 may be a flat member as illustrated in Figure 6, may take the form described herein-after with respect to Figures 7 and 8, or may be of other designs.
Figures 7 and 8 illustrate a further embodiment of the tension device of the present invention. A portion of a housing 412 is shown having a yarn passageway 420 therethrough with a top insert 429 received at the upper end thereof. A
collar 450 is removably received around at least a portion of insert 429 of housing 412 and is capable of rotary movement thereat. An arm 452 is secured to collar 450 and extends at least partially across the upper end of passageway 420. While normal operation of the tension device of the present invention will not dislodge the spherical element or elements from the passageway, a blow to the lower end of the housing can propel the element out. As such, rernovable barrier means may be desired. When the barrier is-used, however, yarn passing out from the passageway will avoid arm 452 whereby no frictional or tension problems result. Furthermore, should the yarn engage arm 452, all contact surfaces are smooth and rounded, and further, arm 452 may be rotated away from the yarn path, out of contact with the yarn. Preferably, arm 452 is wedge shaped as shown in Figures 7 and 8 and extends progressively 103~359 downwardly into passageway 420 towards the terminal end thereof.
Figure 9 represents yet another embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, a housing 512 is produced from a transparent material and is preferably molded from a plastic material that yields a transparent product. Seat insert 530 and top insert 52g will, however, be manufactured of an abrasion resistant material such as aluminum o~ide, Transparency of housing 512 permits ready visual inspection of the device during operation whereby one can ascertain that the passageway is free of lint and other undesirables, that the correct number and size spherical elements are being used, and generally that the device is functioning properly.
Figure 12 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. A tension device 610 is shown having a housing 612 with a passageway 620 extending therethrough.
Passageway 620 has a small diameter section 622 and a large diameter section 626. An annular seat 634 is integral with housing 612 and positioned adjacent the junction of passageway sections 622 and 626, with section 622 passing therethrough.
Seat 634 is provided with a continuous arc emanating from passageway section 622 and extending outwardly therefrom. A
spherical element 640 is receivable in large section 626 of passageway 620 and normally resides at seat 634, making tangential contact with seat 634 therearound. Yarn passes through section 622 of passageway 620, between spherical element 640 and seat 634 and through passageway section 626.
The weight of spherical element 640 applies force against the yarn and constantly tensions same against seat 634.
While the various embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in certain Figures, the individual components of the embodiments are generally interchangeable. For instance, in these figures where an insert is shown at the top of the device, an integral constructed device may also be employed, and vice versa.
The tension device according to the present invention may be manufactured as desired from any suitable material that will withstand the abrasion caused by yarn passin~ thereover without being damaged, or without causing damage to the yarn.
Plastic materials are very suitable due to the ease of use in manufacture of the device and the economics thereof. Injection molding is thus quite acceptable as a manufacturing technique for producing the instant tension device. As mentioned above, however, ceramic com~osites are preferred for the inserts due to the expected wear at that particular part of the device, along with a stainless steel spherical element. ~ikewise, as mentioned above, the housing and both inserts may be of integral construction, preferably being manufactured of an abrasion resistant material such as aluminum oxide.
Having described the present invention in detail, it is obvious that one skilled in the art will be able to make variations and modifications thereto without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be determined only by the claims appended hereto.
Claims (26)
1. A tension device comprising:
a. a housing, said housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, said yarn passageway having a large diameter section and a small diameter section, an outer end of said large diameter section of passage-way having rounded abrasion resistant corners;
b. an uninterrupted seat provided along said passage-way at the junction of said large and small diameter sections and having an opening therethrough, said seat receiving a spherical element thereat and hold-ing said spherical element out of contact with walls of said large diameter section of said passageway when no yarn is passing through said opening, said seat having surfaces around said opening with a radius of curvature opposite the curvature of said spherical element; and c. a spherical element receivable in said large diameter section of said passageway, said spherical element having a diameter less than the length of said large diameter section and said large diameter section having a diameter adjacent said seat to prohibit substantial lateral movement of said spherical element received thereat.
a. a housing, said housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, said yarn passageway having a large diameter section and a small diameter section, an outer end of said large diameter section of passage-way having rounded abrasion resistant corners;
b. an uninterrupted seat provided along said passage-way at the junction of said large and small diameter sections and having an opening therethrough, said seat receiving a spherical element thereat and hold-ing said spherical element out of contact with walls of said large diameter section of said passageway when no yarn is passing through said opening, said seat having surfaces around said opening with a radius of curvature opposite the curvature of said spherical element; and c. a spherical element receivable in said large diameter section of said passageway, said spherical element having a diameter less than the length of said large diameter section and said large diameter section having a diameter adjacent said seat to prohibit substantial lateral movement of said spherical element received thereat.
2. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 1 , wherein said rounded, abrasion resistant corners of said passageway are provided by an insert received on said housing.
3. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 2 , wherein said housing is provided with a shoulder around said top and said insert is received on said shoulder, said insert having an opening extending therethrough, the top of said insert having smooth rounded edges around said opening, and then flaring outwardly in conical fashion.
4. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 3 , wherein the diameter of said opening through said insert is substantially the same as the diameter of said passageway thereat, whereby said opening provides a continuation of said passageway.
5. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 1, wherein said seat is provided by an insert received in said passage-way.
6. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 5 , wherein said seat insert is aluminum oxide.
7. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 1, wherein the housing and seat are integral and are constructed of a material that is resistant to abrasion by a yarn passing in contact therewith.
8. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 7 , wherein the device is manufactured of aluminum oxide.
9. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 1, wherein further means are provided adjacent the top of said passage-way to preclude removal of said spherical element from said passageway while permitting yarn to pass unaffected thereby.
10. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 9 , wherein said means comprise a collar removably receivable around said housing at the top thereof, said collar having an arm secured thereto and extending inwardly at least partially across said passageway, said arm having smooth rounded surfaces thereon.
11. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 10, wherein said arm extends progressively downwardly into said passage-way toward the terminal end thereof.
12. A yarn tension device comprising:
a. a housing, said housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, said passageway having an abrasion resistant surface with rounded edges at an upper end thereof, said housing further having a rounded bottom;
b. an annular, uninterrupted insert provided along said passageway, insert seat having an opening therethrough with smooth curved surfaces around said opening to define a seat and receive a spherical element thereat, said curved surfaces of said insert having a radius of curvature opposite the curvature of said spherical element whereby said spherical element makes point contact with said seat around said annulus and resides at said seat out of contact with walls of said passageway when no yarn is passing through said annulus, and c. at least one spherical element being receivable in said passageway, the diameter of said spherical element being less than the length of said passage-way above said seat.
a. a housing, said housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, said passageway having an abrasion resistant surface with rounded edges at an upper end thereof, said housing further having a rounded bottom;
b. an annular, uninterrupted insert provided along said passageway, insert seat having an opening therethrough with smooth curved surfaces around said opening to define a seat and receive a spherical element thereat, said curved surfaces of said insert having a radius of curvature opposite the curvature of said spherical element whereby said spherical element makes point contact with said seat around said annulus and resides at said seat out of contact with walls of said passageway when no yarn is passing through said annulus, and c. at least one spherical element being receivable in said passageway, the diameter of said spherical element being less than the length of said passage-way above said seat.
13. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 12, wherein said housing and annular seat are integral.
14. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 12, wherein the housing adjacent the top of said passageway is cut-away to define a shoulder around said passageway and an annular insert is received therein, said insert providing the abrasion resistant surface and smooth rounded edges.
15. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 14, wherein said insert is manufactured of aluminum oxide.
16. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 12, comprising further a collar removably received around said housing, said collar having an arm secured thereto and extend-ing inwardly over a portion of said passageway, said arm pre-cluding removal of said spherical element while permitting unimpeded movement of yarn thereby.
17. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 12, wherein said housing is manufactured of a transparent plastic material.
18. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 12, wherein the upper end of said passageway defines a second annular seat and comprising further a large spherical element receivable at said second seat, atop said passageway, said second large spherical element further tensioning yarn passing thereby.
19. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 12, wherein mounting means are secured to said housing.
20. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 19, wherein said mounting means comprise an elongated member having a slot extending a portion of the length thereof.
21. A yarn tension device comprising:
a. a housing, said housing having a rounded bottom and having a yarn passageway extending there-through, said passageway having a large diameter section and a small diameter section therealong;
b. an annular, uninterrupted seat received in said passageway at the junction of said large and small diameter sections, said seat having a continuous curvature away from said annulus at least through an area to be contacted by a spherical element;
c. a spherical element receivable in said passageway and residable at said seat without making contact with walls of said large diameter section of said passageway, said spherical element having a diameter less than the length of the large diameter section of said passageway;
d. an insert received in an upper end of said large diameter section of said passageway, said insert having an opening therethrough whose diameter is substantially the same as the diameter of said passageway, and having smooth rounded corners around an upper end of said insert opening; and e. a collar removably receivable around said housing at said insert, said collar having an arm secured there-to and extending at least partially across said passageway.
a. a housing, said housing having a rounded bottom and having a yarn passageway extending there-through, said passageway having a large diameter section and a small diameter section therealong;
b. an annular, uninterrupted seat received in said passageway at the junction of said large and small diameter sections, said seat having a continuous curvature away from said annulus at least through an area to be contacted by a spherical element;
c. a spherical element receivable in said passageway and residable at said seat without making contact with walls of said large diameter section of said passageway, said spherical element having a diameter less than the length of the large diameter section of said passageway;
d. an insert received in an upper end of said large diameter section of said passageway, said insert having an opening therethrough whose diameter is substantially the same as the diameter of said passageway, and having smooth rounded corners around an upper end of said insert opening; and e. a collar removably receivable around said housing at said insert, said collar having an arm secured there-to and extending at least partially across said passageway.
22. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 21, wherein said housing, insert and seat are of integral construction.
23. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 21, wherein said housing is manufactured of a transparent plastic material.
24. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 21, wherein further a large spherical element is received atop said insert and residable at said insert opening which defines a seat therefor, said area secured to said collar being positioned above said large spherical element.
25. A yarn tension device comprising:
a. a housing, said housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, said passageway having a large diameter section and a small diameter section, said large diameter section having a diameter at an upper end thereof at least as large as the diameter at a lower end thereof;
b. an uninterrupted insert received in said passageway and having an opening therethrough, said insert having a surface around said opening curving out-wardly therefrom to define an annular seat at the junction of said large and small diameter sections;
c. a spherical element receivable in said large dia-meter section of said passageway and being resid-able at said annular seat, said spherical element having a diameter compared to the diameter of the passageway at said seat such that permanent lateral movement away from said seat is precluded, said spherical element being out of contact with walls defining said large diameter section of said pas-sageway when at rest on said seat with no yarn passing thereby; and d. a collar removeably receivable around said housing adjacent an upper end thereof, said collar having means thereon to preclude removal of said spherical element from said passageway without impeding passage of yarn thereby. 22
a. a housing, said housing having a yarn passageway extending therethrough, said passageway having a large diameter section and a small diameter section, said large diameter section having a diameter at an upper end thereof at least as large as the diameter at a lower end thereof;
b. an uninterrupted insert received in said passageway and having an opening therethrough, said insert having a surface around said opening curving out-wardly therefrom to define an annular seat at the junction of said large and small diameter sections;
c. a spherical element receivable in said large dia-meter section of said passageway and being resid-able at said annular seat, said spherical element having a diameter compared to the diameter of the passageway at said seat such that permanent lateral movement away from said seat is precluded, said spherical element being out of contact with walls defining said large diameter section of said pas-sageway when at rest on said seat with no yarn passing thereby; and d. a collar removeably receivable around said housing adjacent an upper end thereof, said collar having means thereon to preclude removal of said spherical element from said passageway without impeding passage of yarn thereby. 22
26. A yarn tension device as defined in claim 25, wherein said means on said collar is an arm secured thereto and extending outwardly across at least a portion of the top of said passageway.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US29799572A | 1972-10-16 | 1972-10-16 | |
| US368735A US3892371A (en) | 1972-10-16 | 1973-06-11 | Yarn tensioning device |
| US381979A US3874613A (en) | 1972-10-16 | 1973-07-23 | Yarn tensioning device |
| CA183,029A CA1016519A (en) | 1972-10-16 | 1973-10-10 | Yarn tensioning device and method |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1038359A true CA1038359A (en) | 1978-09-12 |
Family
ID=27425725
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA281,288A Expired CA1038359A (en) | 1972-10-16 | 1977-06-23 | Yarn tension device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1038359A (en) |
-
1977
- 1977-06-23 CA CA281,288A patent/CA1038359A/en not_active Expired
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