CN106012269B

CN106012269B - Method and device for monitoring the production of a knitting machine, and knitting machine

Info

Publication number: CN106012269B
Application number: CN201610189780.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: S.舒尔泰斯; T.施特罗伊贝尔
Original assignee: Memminger IRO GmbH
Current assignee: Memminger IRO GmbH
Priority date: 2015-03-30
Filing date: 2016-03-30
Publication date: 2021-07-06
Anticipated expiration: 2036-03-30
Also published as: DE102015104903B3; TW201700809A; TWI620845B; EP3075690A1; EP3075690B1; CN106012269A

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device for monitoring the production of a knitting machine and to a knitting machine. In a method for monitoring the production of a knitting machine, the thread supply of at least two thread supply devices or groups of two at least two thread supply devices is monitored. The sensor signals are generated for the thread supply device in the thread supply path of the thread supply device by the sensor devices, respectively, with one measuring pulse per length unit of the thread supply path. The sensor signal is checked by the checking device and a stop signal for the knitting machine is generated if necessary. The detection events are determined from the sensor signals of at least two of the line supply devices, referred to as monitor line supply devices, or the group of monitor groups, by a clock unit and are supplied to an inspection facility. It is detected by the checking means whether at least one measuring pulse is generated for the sensor signal of each line supply device or each line supply device group for each detection event.

Description

Method and device for monitoring the production of a knitting machine, and knitting machine

Technical Field

The invention relates to a method and a device for monitoring the production of a knitting machine and a corresponding knitting machine, wherein the method monitors the supply of at least two thread supply devices or at least two groups of at least two thread supply devices, i.e. for at least two knitting stations, wherein sensor signals with one measuring pulse per length unit of the thread supply path thereof are generated for the thread supply devices by sensor devices, wherein the sensor signals are checked by a checking device and optionally a stop signal for the knitting machine is generated, wherein the device has at least two thread supply devices or at least two groups of at least two thread supply devices, i.e. for supplying threads to at least two knitting stations, wherein sensor devices are assigned to the thread supply devices, wherein each sensor device is designed to generate a measuring pulse per length unit with a thread supply path Has a checking device which is designed to check the sensor signal of the sensor device and to generate a stop signal for the knitting machine if necessary.

Background

In knitting technology it is often desirable to monitor the production of the operation. For this purpose, monitoring of the supply of a large number of threads into the textile machine is known from EP 0752631B 1. Sensor means are provided which detect the state of the supply means of the wire which is supplied to the machine by the supply means, in particular the movement or stoppage of the wire, the stress and the speed. The sensor mechanism is connected with a control unit, which controls the operation of the machine based on sensor signals. The control unit is connected with the sensor mechanism through at least one communication wire.

The control unit individually interrogates the sensor means for data on the state of the supply means of thread on the basis of a periodic reference signal which is a function of the operating position of the textile machine. The control unit controls the operation of the textile machine with the data of the sensor arrangement. Which interrupts the operation of the textile machine when a difference occurs between the data obtained by the at least one sensor mechanism and the corresponding stored data.

EP 1370720B 1 describes a production monitoring/regulating device and a corresponding method for a knitting machine, in particular a circular knitting machine. The apparatus comprises a plurality of knitting systems, a plurality of providing devices and a computerized unit, wherein the providing devices are connected to the computerized unit. The production monitoring/regulating device obtains a trigger signal.

In operation, the yarn is provided to the active knitting system by a plurality of non-actively provided providing devices according to at least two different yarn delivery principles. The individual yarn quantities are continuously measured in accordance with the actual rotation signal sampled at the supply device. The individual yarn quantities are compared in a computerized unit with the nominal yarn quantities of the pattern, for example, and information and/or control measures are derived from the comparison. For the comparison, tolerance ranges are defined which coordinate the yarn quality and/or the yarn path parameters in terms of their width. Exceeding different tolerance ranges is used to trigger different measures, such as alarm signals, regulating measures or switching off the knitting machine. The individual yarn quantities are also used to determine the overall yarn quantity and/or the yarn weight, wherein they are converted or converted into the same quantity or weight unit.

The knitting machine with its machine control, the production monitoring/regulating device and the supply device are connected via a bus system, for example a CAN bus system or a daisy chain.

In the above-described document, individual data on the state of the thread supply mechanism (EP 0752631B 1) or on the amount of yarn (EP 1370720B 1) are detected. In a central control unit, which is supplied with a synchronization signal, referred to as a reference signal or trigger signal, the data are analyzed and used to control and, if necessary, interrupt the operation of the knitting machine.

In the production monitoring described in EP 1370720, which is based on the individual yarn quantities, the yarn quantity of a certain parameter is compared with its nominal yarn quantity. For example, an individual yarn quantity is determined for the knitting path, which corresponds to one or more rotations of the knitting cylinder of the circular knitting machine.

Furthermore, it is known, for example, from WO 2008/083691 a1 to use mechanical thread detectors at the thread supply system for production monitoring, which generate a stop signal for the knitting machine, for example, when the thread breaks.

EP 2270269B 1 describes a method for detecting the stop of yarn unwinding from a yarn supply to a machine located downstream. The thread supply has a stationary drum and a sensor, the sensor signal of which generates a pulse in each loop unwound from the drum. The machine is stopped when the measured time exceeds the nominal value of the time interval between two pulses, starting from the last pulse. The set value is updated in real time depending on the yarn unwinding speed.

In the method described in EP 2270269B 1, it is necessary to determine the respective yarn unwinding speed very quickly in real time. In particular, it is costly to determine the time between two pulses and the setpoint value in each case as a function of the extraction speed.

Disclosure of Invention

The aim of the invention is to improve a method and a device for monitoring the production of a knitting machine. The aim of the invention is to achieve a quick stop of the knitting machine, especially when the thread is stationary or the thread breaks, with little effort.

The object is achieved by the following features.

The method according to the invention relates to monitoring the production of a knitting machine. The knitting machine is configured, for example, as a circular knitting machine or as a flat knitting machine.

Circular knitting machines have, for example, a plurality or a multiplicity of identical or different thread supply devices. The wire supply device is, for example, an active wire supply device, a wire stress-controlled wire supply device or a memory wire supply device. The thread supply apparatus is used, for example, in the manufacture of knitted fabrics having patterns.

The thread supply is implemented in a storage-thread supply device in which the thread is drawn out of the winding body.

The thread supply is implemented in a thread-stress-controlled thread supply device by supplying the thread by means of a driven winding body. Here, the linear stress is measured and adjusted by changing the rotational speed of the winding body.

The thread supply of the active-thread-supply device involves the supply of thread synchronized with the speed of the knitting machine. The winding body of the active thread supply device is driven by a drive of the knitting machine, for example, via a gear and a toothed belt.

For example, jacquard machines or crimping machines are used for producing the knitted fabrics with patterns. In jacquard machines, a thread supply device is assigned to a knitting station. Two or more thread supply devices are assigned to a knitting station in the crimping machine, which alternately or simultaneously supply different threads, for example different colors, to the knitting station. The thread supply devices associated with a knitting station are called thread supply device groups.

The invention relates in particular to a method for monitoring the thread supply of at least two thread supply devices or at least two thread supply devices of a group formed by at least two thread supply devices, i.e. for at least two knitting stations.

The sensor signals are generated for the provided thread supply devices by a sensor device arranged in the thread supply path of the thread supply device, each sensor signal having one measuring pulse per length unit of the thread supply path. The generated sensor signal is checked by an inspection device. If necessary, a stop signal for the knitting machine is generated by the checking device.

In order to monitor the line supply group, it is checked whether at least one of the sensor signals of the line supply devices of the line supply group indicates a line supply.

In order to check the sensor signals of the line supply system or the line supply system group, the test events are supplied to the test device by a clock unit.

The event after which the checking of the sensor signal by the checking means is started is referred to as a detection event.

For each detection event, it is checked by the checking means whether at least one measuring pulse has been generated for the sensor signal of the sensor device of each of the line supply systems or of each of the line supply system groups.

The detection events are determined by the clock unit from the sensor signals of at least two line supply devices or from the sensor signals of at least two groups of line supply devices. The line supply device whose sensor signal is used by the clock unit to determine the detection event is called a monitor line supply device. Accordingly, the group used to determine the detection event is referred to as a monitor group.

In order to check the sensor signal, the number of measuring pulses is determined for each line supply device or for each group during the determination of the detection event. The number of measurement pulses is set to zero after the verification.

The checking of the sensor signals is triggered by detection events which are determined by a clock unit from the sensor signals themselves, to be precise from the sensor signals of the at least two monitor line supply devices or the at least two monitor groups. This enables a rapid stopping of the knitting machine at standstill of the thread or at thread breakage with low effort, i.e. with the aid of the sensor signal to be checked.

Sensor signals of a plurality of, i.e. at least two, monitor thread supply devices or monitor groups are used for determining the detection result, whereby different operating modes of the knitting region, such as knitting or floating threads, can be taken into account if necessary.

In one embodiment, 4 to 16 monitor supply line devices or groups of monitors are used. This enables a reliable determination of the detection result in the case of different operating modes of the knitting region or in the case of a failure of the monitor thread supply device or the monitor group.

In an embodiment all line feeders or all groups are used as monitor line feeders or monitor groups. This is the case, for example, when only a few, for example, up to 16, line supply devices or groups are monitored.

In one embodiment, the detection event is determined by the clock unit when at least M measurement pulses are respectively fed to the clock unit by the sensor signals of N monitor line supply devices or N monitor groups.

The number M of measuring pulses provided by the monitor line supply device or by the sensor signals of the monitor group is at least 2. The number M of measuring pulses is preferably 2 to 5.

The number N of monitor line supply devices or monitor groups from which the M measurement pulses are supplied is at least 1. The number N is preferably from 1 to 10.

The smaller the numbers N and M, the faster the stop signal is generated. However, the risk of a faulty shut-down is increased in the case of very low numbers.

If the monitoring device comprises in one embodiment two line supply apparatuses, these are also monitor line supply apparatuses, i.e. the sensor signals of the two line supply apparatuses are supplied to the clock unit. For example, when one of the sensor signals S sends two measuring pulses to the clock unit, a detection pulse is generated, wherein the number N of sensor signals is determined to be 1 and the number M of measuring pulses is determined to be 2. The embodiments of the monitoring device with two groups of line supply apparatuses are correspondingly suitable.

In one embodiment, the detection event is provided as a detection instruction to the checking means by a clock unit. For example, the program instructions, by which the program of the test device for performing the test of the sensor signal is started, are referred to as test instructions. A detection instruction is generated by a clock unit when a detection event is determined by the clock unit.

In one embodiment, the test event is provided as a test pulse of the test signal to the test device by a clock unit. When a detection event is determined by the clock unit, a detection pulse of the detection signal is generated accordingly by the clock unit.

In one alternative, the sensor signals are checked in a separate checking unit of the checking device. Each of the separate test units is assigned to a line supply system, the sensor signals of the line supply system being fed to the line supply system. The checking unit is integrated, for example, into a line supply device. For the purpose of the test, all the separate test units are supplied, for example, with a test signal having a test pulse. The separate test unit checks for each detection pulse whether at least one measurement pulse has been generated for its own sensor signal. If necessary, that is to say for example if this is not the case, a correspondingly separate checking unit generates a stop signal for the knitting machine.

In a further alternative, the sensor signals are checked in a central checking unit of the checking device. For this purpose, the sensor signals are fed to a central test unit. The central checking unit is also provided with detection events determined by the clock unit. The central checking unit checks for each detection event whether at least one measuring pulse has been generated for each sensor signal. Which generates a stop signal for the knitting machine if necessary. In one embodiment, the detection event of the central test unit is provided as a detection pulse of the detection signal.

In one embodiment, the length unit of the thread supply path corresponds to a thread loop unwound from a winding body of the thread supply device or a part of the unwound thread loop. The yarn loops are passively unwound in the storage and supply device, i.e. drawn off by the knitting machine. In the case of thread-tension-controlled thread supply devices and in active thread supply devices, the thread loop is actively drawn off, i.e. is supplied by a driven winding body.

In one embodiment, different line supply devices are monitored. In this case, mutually coordinated measuring pulses of the sensor device are used. In the alternative, the unit of length of each measurement pulse spread is the same for different line feeding devices.

The device according to the invention described below has the features and advantages corresponding to the method according to the invention.

The device according to the invention for monitoring the production of a knitting machine, hereinafter referred to as monitoring device, comprises at least two thread supply devices, to each of which a sensor device is assigned. Each sensor device is designed to generate a sensor signal having a respective measuring pulse per unit of length of the supply path.

The monitoring device comprises an inspection device which is designed to verify the sensor signal of the sensor device. The checking device generates a stop signal for the knitting machine if necessary.

The monitoring device comprises a clock unit which is designed to provide a detection event to the checking means.

The clock unit is designed to determine detection events from sensor signals of at least two of the line supply devices, referred to as monitor line supply devices, or at least two of the groups, referred to as monitor groups.

The checking means are designed to detect for each detection event whether at least one measuring pulse has been generated for each line supply device or each group of sensor signals.

In one embodiment, the clock unit is connected to sensor devices of 4 to 16 monitor line supply devices or monitor groups.

In one embodiment, the clock unit is designed to determine a detection event when M measurement pulses are respectively introduced into the sensor signals of N monitor line feeders or N monitoring groups, where N is at least 1 and M is at least 2.

In one embodiment, the clock unit is designed to provide the checking unit with a detection event as a detection instruction. The clock unit is configured to generate a detection instruction accordingly upon determining a detection event.

In one embodiment, the clock unit is designed to provide the test result to the test device as a test pulse of the test signal. The clock unit is configured to generate detection pulses accordingly when a detection event is determined.

In an alternative, the inspection device has separate inspection units which are each connected to a sensor device of the line supply system. The separate test unit is connected to the clock unit for receiving the test signal with the test pulse.

In a further alternative, the inspection device has a central inspection unit. The central test unit is connected to the sensor devices of the line supply system for receiving the sensor signals of all the monitored line supply systems. The central checking unit is connected to the clock unit for receiving the detection event. In an alternative, the central test unit is connected to a clock unit for receiving a test signal with test pulses.

In a further alternative, the checking unit is connected with a clock unit for receiving a detection instruction. The central checking unit and the clock unit are in this case designed, for example, as a program unit.

In one embodiment, the thread supply device has a winding body, wherein the length unit of the thread supply path corresponds to a thread loop or a part of a thread loop unwound from the winding body.

The knitting machine according to the invention is provided with the described monitoring device according to the invention.

Drawings

The invention is further explained on the basis of examples schematically shown in the drawings. The figures show:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a circular knitting machine together with the elements of a device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a memory-supply line device;

figure 3 is a block diagram of a circular knitting machine (jacquard machine) together with a monitoring device according to a first example of the invention,

fig. 4 is a block diagram of a monitoring device of a first example;

fig. 5 is a flowchart of generating a detection signal by the clock unit of the first example;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart for verifying sensor signals by a separate inspection unit of the first example;

fig. 7 is a block diagram of a monitoring device of a second example;

fig. 8 is a flowchart of generating a detection signal by the clock unit of the second example;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart for verifying sensor signals by the central checking unit of the second example;

fig. 10 is a flow chart for checking the sensor signal by the central checking unit of the third example;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a circular knitting machine (crimping machine) in conjunction with a monitoring device according to a fourth example of the invention;

fig. 12 is a flowchart of generating a detection signal by the clock unit of the fourth example; and

fig. 13 is a flowchart for checking the sensor signal by the central checking unit of the fourth example.

Detailed Description

First example

The device according to the invention is provided for monitoring the production of a circular knitting machine 1.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a circular knitting machine 1 together with the elements of a device according to the invention for monitoring the production of the knitting machine, which device is referred to below as a monitoring device.

The circular knitting machine 1 has a plurality of thread supply devices, more precisely thread supply devices configured as a memory thread supply device 2, a stress-controlled thread supply device 3 and an active thread supply device 4.

The

thread supply devices

2, 3, 4 are arranged on a plurality of support loops 5 of the circular knitting machine 1. Only some of these are shown in fig. 1, wherein three storage wire supply devices 2 can be seen on the upper carrier ring 5, three wire stress-controlled wire supply devices 3 can be seen on the middle carrier ring 5 and three active wire supply devices 4 can be seen on the lower carrier ring 5.

For example, in order to produce a patterned knitted fabric, for example a jacquard knitted fabric, the circular knitting machine 1 has a plurality of knitting sites 6 at its knitting devices, wherein, for example, a thread supply device is assigned to each knitting site 6. The knitting device comprises, for example, a knitting cylinder 7, which is concealed in fig. 1 by a knitting button 8 and is shown as an arrow. Fig. 1 also shows the supply of thread 9 to the knitting station 6 by means of a storage-thread supply device 2.

In the circular knitting machine 1, the knitting device is arranged in a known manner so as to be rotatable in a machine frame 10 which is surrounded by a housing 11 in the region below the knitting device and to which the carrier ring 5 is fixed in the region above the knitting device. A machine control 12, which is used primarily for the invisible drive mechanism of the knitting device, is arranged next to the housing 11.

The monitoring device according to the first example of the invention is provided for a jacquard knitting machine. It comprises at least two memory-supply devices 2 and a control unit 13. The control unit 13 is, for example, removably fixed at a central portion of the frame 10 of the circular knitting machine 1, as shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 2 shows a storage and supply device 2 with a winding body designed as a storage drum 14.

A stationary storage drum 14 is arranged in front of the housing 15. At the entry end of the storage drum 14 a winding element 16 is arranged for winding the yarn loop onto the storage drum 14. At the other end of the accumulator drum 14, i.e. at the outlet end, a conical brake 17 is provided, for example. The cone stop 17 is supported by a cantilever 18 of the housing 15.

The memory-supply line device 2 is assigned a sensor device 19 and a separate test unit 20.

The sensor device 19 is designed to generate a sensor signal having a respective measuring pulse I per unit of length of the supply path Δ XF. In the example described, the length unit of the feed path Δ XF corresponds to the loop of yarn drawn from the storage drum 14. The sensor device 19 is configured, for example, as an optical sensor, which generates a measuring pulse I in each thread loop drawn off, i.e. passively unwound. In the example, the circumference of the accumulator drum 14 and thus the length of the yarn loop is 20cm, i.e. the length unit of the feed path Δ XF is 20 cm.

The separate examination unit 20 has, for example, a microprocessor. The separate examination unit forms an electronic construction unit and/or a program unit.

The separate checking unit 20 is designed to check the sensor signal S of the sensor device 19 and to generate a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 if necessary. The separate test unit 20 is integrated into the housing 15 and thus into the storage and supply line device 2, but is shown separately in fig. 2 for clarity of explanation.

Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of the circular knitting machine 1 of the first example together with a monitoring device. Eight of the memory-supply devices 2 and the control unit 13 of the monitoring device can be seen in fig. 3. The memory-supply line devices 2 are connected to each other and to the control unit 13 by means of a communication connection 21.

The communication link 21 is designed as two lines and is guided at the carrier ring 5 and at the components of the rack 10. The communication connection 21 is not shown in fig. 1. Data is exchanged between the connected devices through the communication connection 21. The communication connection 21 is embodied, for example, as two lines of a CAN bus connection, by means of which a series of data transfers are realized.

The number J of said memory-line supplying devices 2 is 2 to 126, or more than 126, of which at least two, preferably 4 to 16, are used as monitor line supplying devices.

In the example described, the monitoring means comprise 48 memory-line supply devices 2 with their sensor devices 19, i.e. the number J of memory-line supply devices is 48. Of these memory-

supply line devices

2, 16 are used as monitor supply line devices. The control unit 13 is connected to the circular knitting machine 1, to be precise to the machine control 12, via a control connection 22. The control connection 22 is configured, for example, as a control line. Alternatively, the control connection is implemented as a CAN bus connection, like the communication connection 21.

The block diagram of figure 3 makes clear the path of a respective thread 9 from the yarn shaft 23 through the storage-feed device 2 to one of the knitting stations 6 at the knitting cylinder 7 of the circular knitting machine 1.

Fig. 4 shows a block diagram of the monitoring device, wherein only six of the memory/supply lines 2, their sensor devices 19 and their separate checking units 20 can be seen.

The checking means of the monitoring device are formed primarily by a separate checking unit 20 of the store-and-supply device 2. The checking means also comprise a checking unit K integrated into the control unit 13 for transmitting a stop signal ST of one of the separate checking units 20.

The monitoring device comprises a clock unit T, which is also integrated in the control unit 13. The control unit 13 is shown in fig. 4 by a dashed line surrounding the clock unit T and the checking unit K.

The clock unit T is connected to the sensor means 19 of the 16 monitor line supply devices. As can be seen in fig. 4, the clock unit T is connected via a control connection 21 to the sensor devices 19 of the three left memory line supply devices 2 serving as monitor line supply devices.

The clock unit T is configured for determining a detection result from the sensor signal S of the monitor line supply device and for supplying it as a detection pulse T3 of the detection signal S3. That is, the clock unit is configured for generating the detection pulse T3 of the detection signal S3. The clock unit T is designed in particular for generating a detection pulse T3 in each case when at least M measurement pulses I are respectively fed from at least N of the sensor signals S of the monitor line supply to the clock unit T.

The separate checking unit 20 is connected to the clock unit T for receiving the detection signal S3. Each of the separate test units 20 is designed to detect for each test pulse T3 of the test signal S3 whether at least one measurement pulse I has been generated for its own sensor signal S. Which is configured to generate a stop signal ST and send it to the checking unit K if this is not the case. The checking unit K is designed to transmit the stop signal ST via a control connection 22 to the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1.

The control unit 13 is designed as an electronic device and is provided, for example, with a microprocessor. The clock unit T and the checking unit K are configured as electronic configuration units and/or program units of the control unit 13.

In order to monitor the circular knitting machine 1 during operation, the thread supply of all the storage thread supply devices 2 is monitored. For each thread supply device 2, a sensor signal S is generated by the respective sensor device 19 with one measuring pulse I per unit of length of the thread supply path Δ XF, i.e. with one measuring pulse I per loop of thread drawn off by the storage drum 14 of the storage-thread supply device 2. The respective separate checking unit 20 checks the sensor signal S by checking whether at least one measuring pulse I is generated for each detection pulse T3. If this is not the case, it generates a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1.

A detection event is determined from the sensor signal S of the monitor supply line device by means of a clock unit T and is supplied as a detection pulse T3 of a detection signal S3. That is, the detection pulse T3 is generated by the clock unit T. The detection pulses T3 are generated when at least M measurement pulses I are respectively introduced into the clock unit T by at least N of the sensor signals S of the monitor line supply device.

The number N of sensor signals is at least one, preferably 1 to 10. The number M of measuring pulses is at least two, preferably 2 to 5.

In the example, the number M of measurement pulses is determined to be 3 and the number N of sensor signals is determined to be 2.

In the alternative, the numbers N and M can be variably adjusted depending on the quality of the thread and/or the fabric and/or other parameters.

Fig. 5 shows the generation of a detection pulse T3 by the clock unit T from the sensor signal S of the monitor line supply device according to a flow chart.

When the measuring pulse li of the sensor signal S of the ith monitor supply line device is input, the number Mi of the measuring pulses of the sensor signal S is increased to: mi = Mi + 1.

If the number Mi corresponds to or is greater than the determined number M, the number NF of sensor signals S is increased to: NF = NF + 1. If this is not the case, the process restarts.

If the number NF of sensor signals S corresponds to or is greater than the determined number N, a detection pulse T3 of the detection signal S3 is generated by the clock unit T.

All the quantities Mi and NF are then set back to zero. The generation of the detection pulse T3 is restarted.

Fig. 6 shows the checking of the sensor signal S by a corresponding separate checking unit 20 according to a flow chart.

At the beginning of the monitoring process, i.e. at the beginning of the generation of the detection pulses T3 by the clock unit T shown in fig. 5, the number of measurement pulses Mj of the sensor signal S introduced by the sensor device 19 is summed by the respective separate checking unit 20. This is not shown in fig. 6.

Once the detection pulse T3 is generated and introduced, the separate check unit 20 checks whether the number of measurement pulses Mj is greater than zero.

If this is not the case, a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 is generated by the checking unit 20 and supplied to the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1 via the control connection 22.

After each check, the corresponding number Mj is set to zero by the separate checking unit 20.

The checking of the sensor signal S is restarted. A new detection pulse T3 is awaited. During which the measuring pulses I of the sensor device 19 are again summed up in the number Mj.

The checking of the sensor signal S is effected in parallel by all the separate checking units 20.

In an alternative to the first example, the control unit 13 is integrated into the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1.

In the alternative, the monitoring device comprises a plurality of thread-tension-controlled thread supply devices 3 with driven windings.

The sensor device of the thread supply device 3 for thread tension control is designed, for example, as an encoder, which is arranged on the driven winding body. The encoder is designed to generate a sensor signal having a measuring pulse for a defined angle of rotation of the winding body and thus for a defined supply path Δ XF. The supply path Δ XF of the measuring pulse corresponds to the thread loop or a part of the thread loop actively unwound from the winding body, i.e. supplied.

In a further alternative, the monitoring device comprises not only the memory wire supply device 2 and/or the wire stress-controlled wire supply device 3 and/or the active wire supply device.

The sensor device for the active thread supply system 4 is designed as an encoder on its winding body, like the sensor device of a thread-stress-controlled thread supply system.

In one embodiment, the sensor devices of the monitoring device are configured in a coordinated manner when different thread supply devices are used, wherein the measuring pulses for the different thread supply devices correspond to the same thread supply path Δ XF.

Second example

The second example corresponds to the first example except for the features shown below.

Fig. 7 shows a block diagram of a monitoring device of a second example. The monitoring device likewise comprises 48 memory-supply units 2 to be monitored with their sensor devices 19. Wherein 16 of said memory-line supplying devices 2 are used as monitor line supplying devices. Six of the storage and supply devices 2 and their sensor devices 19 are shown in fig. 7. The separate test units for the further test functions which are present if necessary cannot be seen.

The checking means of the monitoring device comprise a central checking unit ZK, which is integrated in the control unit 13 together with the clock unit T. The central checking unit ZK is connected to all sensor devices 19 via the communication connection 21 for receiving the sensor signals S and is connected internally, i.e. within the control unit 13, to the clock unit T.

The central checking unit ZK is designed to detect for each detection pulse T3 of the detection signal S3 originating from the clock unit T whether at least one measuring pulse I has been generated for each sensor signal S of the memory-supply device 2 to be monitored. Which is designed to generate a stop signal ST and to transmit it via a control connection 22 to the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1.

In operation, the central checking unit ZK checks all sensor signals S as a function of the detection pulses T3 provided by the clock unit T of the control unit 13. Which checks whether at least one measuring pulse I has been generated for each sensor signal S. If this is not the case for one of the sensor signals S, a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 is generated by means of this and transmitted to the machine control 12.

Fig. 8 shows the generation of a sensor signal S from the monitor supply line device by means of a detection pulse T3 of the clock unit T according to a flow chart, which corresponds to the case of the first example and is explained there according to fig. 5.

Fig. 9 shows the checking of all sensor signals S by the central checking unit ZK according to a flowchart.

At the start of the monitoring process, i.e. at the start of the generation of the detection pulses T3 by the clock unit T shown in fig. 8, the number Mj of measurement pulses lj of the sensor signal S introduced by the sensor device 19 is respectively summed by the central checking unit ZK. This is not shown in fig. 9.

As soon as the detection pulse T3 is generated and introduced, the central checking unit ZK checks for the sensor signals from J =1 to J = J of the memory/supply line device 2 whether the number Mj of the measurement pulses lj is greater than zero. The number J is 48 as mentioned in the example.

If this is not the case, a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 is generated by the central checking unit and supplied to the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1 via the control connection 22.

After each test, the number Mj of measurement pulses I of the sensor signal is set to zero.

The checking of the sensor signal S is restarted. That is, a new detection pulse T3 is waited. During which the measuring pulses Ij of the sensor device 19 are again summed up in the number Mj.

Third example

The monitoring apparatus and the monitoring process of the third example correspond to the monitoring apparatus and the monitoring process of the second example, except for the features shown below.

In the example, the central checking unit ZK and the clock unit T are jointly integrated into the control unit 13. The control unit 13 is connected to all memory/line feeders 2 for receiving the sensor signals S of all sensor devices 19 via its connections to the communication connection 21.

The clock unit T of the control unit 13 is connected to the sensor means 19 of the monitor line supply device. Which is configured to determine a detection event from the sensor signals S of the 16 monitor line supply devices.

The central checking unit ZK is connected to all sensor devices 19. Which is configured for detecting, for each detection event provided by the clock unit T, whether at least one measurement pulse I has been generated for the sensor signal S of each line supply device 2. If this is not the case, it is designed to generate a stop signal ST and transmit it via the control connection 22 to the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1.

The clock unit T and the central checking unit ZK are designed, for example, as program units, wherein the detection event of the clock unit T is used as a detection instruction T3^*To a central checking unit ZK. In the example described, a detection signal with a detection pulse is not required.

The supply of all memory supply units 2 is monitored during operation by a monitoring device.

FIG. 10 shows, according to a flow chart, a detection event by a clock unit T as a detection instruction T3^*By a central checking unit ZK by a detection command T3^*The initial checking of all sensor signals S.

Also in this process, at the beginning of the monitoring process, i.e. at the beginning of the generation of a detection event by the clock unit T as detection instruction T3^*The number Mj of measurement pulses lj of the sensor signal S introduced by the sensor device 19 is then summed. This is not shown in fig. 10.

When the measurement pulse li of the sensor signal S of the ith monitor line supply device is input, the number Mi of measurement pulses li used by the clock unit for the monitor line supply device is increased to: mi = Mi + 1.

If the number Mi corresponds to or is greater than the determined number M, the number NF of sensor signals S of the monitor supply line device in which the number Mi of measuring pulses li has reached the determined number M is increased to: NF = NF + 1. If this is not the case, the process is restarted.

If the number NF of sensor signals S corresponds to or is greater than the defined number N, a detection command T3 is generated by the clock unit T^*The central checking unit ZK waits for the detection instruction. As this is illustrated in the flow chart, there is no need to explicitly display the detection instruction T3^*. What is important is that the clock unit T supplies the central checking unit ZK with a detection instruction T3^*For administration and start with the examination of all sensor signals S.

That is to say, upon the occurrence of a detection event, i.e. an active answer to the inquiry of the number NF as described above, it is checked by the central checking unit ZK for all of the J memory-supply devices 2 whether the number Mj of measurement pulses lj is greater than zero.

If this is not the case in one of the memory-thread feeders 2, a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 is generated by the central checking unit ZK and supplied to the machine control device 12 of the circular knitting machine 1 via the control connection 22.

After each test, the number Mi, the number Mj, and the number NF are set to zero. The examination of the sensor signal S is restarted.

Fourth example (crimp-knitting machine)

The monitoring apparatus and the monitoring process of the fourth example correspond to the monitoring apparatus and the monitoring process of the second example except for the features shown below.

Fig. 11 shows a block diagram of a fourth example of a circular knitting machine 1 with a monitoring device according to the invention, which is provided for a crimp-knitting machine. In the example, the supply line situation is monitored by groups G of two memory-supply line devices 2 each. The two memory-line supplying devices 2 of one group G provide lines 9 of, for example, different colors. The number of memory-supply line devices 2 is likewise 48 and the number JG of groups is thus 24. 8 of the groups are used as monitor groups.

In fig. 11, four such groups of monitoring devices, each having two memory line supply units 2, and a control unit 13 can be seen. The groups G are respectively characterized by dashed lines. Two storage devices, thread supply devices 2 of a group G are each associated with a respective one of the knitting stations 6. The circular knitting machine 1 has a crimping mechanism 24 at each of the knitting locations 6, which is arranged in the course of a thread in front of the knitting location 6. The crimping mechanism 24 is configured for selecting one of the threads 9 of the two store-feed devices 2 and feeding it to the knitting station 6.

In operation, the central checking unit ZK checks the sensor signal S as a function of the detection pulse T3 provided by the clock unit T of the control unit 13. It is checked whether at least one measuring pulse I has been generated for a group of sensor signals S. If this is not the case for a group, a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 is generated by this and transmitted to the machine control 12.

Fig. 12 shows the generation of a detection pulse T3 from the sensor signal S of the group of monitors by means of a clock unit T according to a flow chart.

The number Gi of measurement pulses li when the measurement pulses li of the sensor signal S of the ith monitor group are input is increased to: gi = Gi + 1.

If the number Gi corresponds to or is greater than the determined number M, the number NG of the groups G is increased to: NG = NG + 1. If this is not the case, the process is restarted.

If the number NG of the groups G corresponds to or is greater than the determined number N, a detection pulse T3 of the detection signal S3 is generated by the clock unit T.

The number Gi and the number NG are then set back to zero. The generation of the detection pulse T3 is restarted.

Fig. 13 shows the examination of the sensor signals S of the group G by the central examination unit ZK according to a flowchart.

At the start of the monitoring process, i.e. at the start of the generation of the detection pulses T3 shown in fig. 12, the number Gj of measurement pulses lj of the sensor signal S introduced by the sensor device 19 is summed in each case by the central checking unit ZK. This is not shown in fig. 13.

Once the detection pulse T3 is generated and introduced, the central checking unit ZK checks whether the number Gj of measurement pulses is greater than zero for the sensor signals S from group j =1 to j = JG. In the example, the number JG is 24 as mentioned.

If this is not the case, a stop signal ST for the circular knitting machine 1 is generated by the central checking unit ZK and supplied to the machine control 12 of the circular knitting machine 1 via the control connection 22.

After each test, the number Gj of measurement pulses I of the sensor signal S is set to zero.

The checking of the sensor signal S is restarted. That is, a new detection pulse T3 is waited. During this period, the measurement pulses lj of the group are again summed up in the number Gj.

List of reference numerals

1 circular knitting machine

2 memory-line supply device

3 stress controlled wire supply device

4 active-supply line equipment

5 Stent Ring

6 knitted region

7 knitting cylinder

8 fastener

9 line

10 machine frame

11 casing

12 machine control device

13 control unit

14 reservoir roller

15 casing

16 winding element

17 conical brake

18 cantilever

19 sensor device

20 inspection unit

21 communication connection part

22 control connection

23 yarn axis

24 crimping mechanism.

Claims

1. Method for monitoring the production of a knitting machine,

wherein the thread supply of at least two thread supply devices (2, 3, 4) or at least two groups (G) formed by at least two thread supply devices (2, 3, 4), i.e. the thread supply for at least two knitting sites (6), is monitored,

wherein a sensor signal (S) with one measuring pulse (I) per length unit of the thread supply path (DeltaXF) thereof is generated for the thread supply devices (2, 3, 4) by a sensor device (19), wherein the sensor signal (S) is checked by a checking mechanism and generates a stop Signal (ST) for the knitting machine,

characterized in that detection events are determined by a clock unit (T) from sensor signals (S) of at least two of the thread supply devices (2, 3, 4), referred to as monitor thread supply devices, or of at least two of the groups, referred to as monitor groups, and are supplied to the checking means, and for each detection event it is checked by the checking means whether at least one measuring pulse (I) has been generated for the sensor signal (S) of each thread supply device or of each group (G), and if this is not the case, a stop Signal (ST) for the knitting machine is generated,

wherein a detection event is determined by the clock unit (T) when M measurement pulses (I) are respectively introduced into the clock unit (T) by sensor signals (S) of N monitor line supply devices or monitor groups, wherein N is at least 1 and M is at least 2,

that is to say when at least two measuring pulses (I) are supplied to the clock unit (T) by one of at least two sensor signals (S) of at least two monitor supply lines or two monitor groups, a detection event is determined, and

wherein the checking means provides the test event as a test pulse (T3) of a test signal (S3) by means of the clock unit (T), wherein the test pulse (T3) of the test signal (S3) is generated by means of the clock unit (T) in each case when a test event is detected.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor signal (S) is checked in separate checking units (20) of the checking facility, which are each associated with a line supply device (2, 3, 4) and to which the sensor signal (S) of the line supply device is fed, wherein a detection signal (S3) with a detection pulse (T3) is supplied to all the separate checking units (20).

3. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor signal (S) is checked in a central checking unit (ZK) of the checking facility, wherein the sensor signal (S) is supplied to the central checking unit and the detection event is supplied to the central checking unit by the clock unit (T).

4. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the length unit of the thread supply path (Δ XF) corresponds to a thread loop unwound from the winding body of the thread supply device or a part of the unwound thread loop.

5. Device for monitoring the production of a knitting machine, having at least two thread supply devices (2, 3, 4) or having at least two groups (G) of at least two thread supply devices (2, 3, 4), i.e. for supplying threads to at least two knitting stations (5), wherein sensor devices (19) are respectively associated with the thread supply devices (2, 3, 4), wherein each sensor device (19) is designed to generate a sensor signal (S) having a measuring pulse (I) for each length unit of a thread supply path (Δ XF), the device having an inspection device, which is designed to check the sensor signals (S) of the sensor devices (19) and to generate a stop Signal (ST) for the knitting machine, characterized in that a clock unit (T) is provided,

the clock unit is designed to determine detection events from the sensor signals (S) of at least two thread supply devices (2, 3, 4), referred to as monitor thread supply devices, or at least two groups (G), referred to as monitor groups, and to supply the detection events to the checking means, wherein the checking means are designed to detect for each detection event whether at least one measuring pulse (I) has been generated for the sensor signal (S) of each thread supply device (2, 3, 4) or of each group (G) and, if this is not the case, to generate a stop Signal (ST) for the knitting machine,

wherein the clock unit (T) is designed to determine a detection event when M measurement pulses (I) are respectively introduced into the clock unit by sensor signals (S) of N monitor line supply devices or N monitor groups, where N is at least 1 and M is at least 2,

wherein the clock unit (T) is designed to provide a test event as a test pulse (T3) of the test signal (S3), wherein the clock unit is designed to generate the test pulse (T3) in each case when a test event is determined.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the checking means have separate checking units (20) which are each associated with a sensor device (19) of the line supply system (2, 3, 4) and are connected to the sensor device (19) of the line supply system, wherein the separate checking units (20) are connected to the clock unit (T) for receiving the detection signal (S3).

7. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the checking means have a central checking unit (ZK) which is connected to the sensor device (19) of the line supply system (2, 3, 4) and to the clock unit (T).

8. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the thread supply device (2, 3, 4) has a winding body, wherein the length unit (Δ XF) of the thread supply path corresponds to a thread loop or a part of a thread loop unwound from the winding body.

9. Knitting machine with a device according to claim 5.