EP1108076B1 - Fibre sorting device - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for execution of the method for fiber sorting of a fiber structure of the supply means one Fiber sorting device is supplied.

About short fibers, nits, dirt and other components from a single fiber mix to excrete, it is known to comb the fiber material in the form of cotton winders to be presented for combing out. The end of the wad of cotton is passed through a pair of pliers clamped and the end protruding beyond the clamping point of the pliers mechanically combed out from a comb of a round comb. With this Combing out may damage fibers. Another disadvantage of the known processes is the discontinuous mode of operation, whereby large masses have to be reversed during the working cycle.

A device has therefore been published in published PCT application WO 98/04765 proposed the separation of short fibers, dirt and other constituents perform by means of an air flow, the air flow essentially is generated in the transport direction of a nonwoven fabric. In this process the nonwoven fabric passed through an air duct becomes a holding force at two points undergoes so that it is guaranteed that the long fibers to be obtained cannot be removed by the air flow.

A certain separation effect could already be achieved with this device, which however, was not yet satisfactory, especially since it was difficult to target the air flow to remove all short fibers from the endless fleece.

In another not yet published Swiss patent application by the applicant with the application number CH-254/98 dated 03.02.1998 was used to increase the separation effect In this system it was suggested that the fiber material be first appropriate is prepared before it gets into the separation channel. It was suggested the fiber material into individual and side by side, longitudinally aligned Prepare single fibers before they are exposed to the air flow. It could be found that an improved separation effect emerged and also less long fibers (good fibers) were in the outlet. The separation effect it was proposed to increase the fiber fleece prepared in this way to carry out several sequential separation stages. The separation effect and the separation quality could be improved with this device but not yet sufficient. The goal, the degree of separation and the separation quality to achieve a conventional comber with this Facility not yet reached.

Starting from the described facilities or from the state of the art the object of the invention is now to propose a method or a device, through which an increased degree of separation as well as an increased separation quality can be achieved compared to the known pneumatic methods.

This task is solved on the one hand by a method, the fiber structure is clamped transversely to its transport direction and that which is superior to the clamping point exposed end of an air flow, which is able to unclamped Remove components (e.g. short fibers, nits, dust, etc.) from the free end and dissipate.

In this proposed method, the selection process (sorting process) is also carried out Air similar to the mechanical separation process on the comber on one open end of a fiber bandage (cotton, nonwoven, sliver, etc.). By the air flow generated in the direction of the free end of the fiber structure it is possible to blow out and remove the unclamped components. The intensity of the air flow depends on the size of the fiber mass from.

To improve the separation effect, it is proposed that the fiber structure before reaching the sorting device into individual fiber packages with essentially in Single fibers stretched out in the longitudinal direction and aligned approximately parallel to one another is divided. This makes it possible in relation to the now existing lengthways stretched fibers exert a targeted clamping effect, which ensures that only a few long fibers are carried away during the sorting process.

In order to generate the fiber packets, it is proposed that a corresponding Discharge element discontinuous fiber packages from the free end of the fiber structure be formed. Such processing of the fibers into thin fiber packages, or bundles of fibers is already known from the principle of the fibroliner. With this In principle, the fiber bundles are ordered ends, with the short fibers in the front end (Clamping line) of the fiber packs can be found. With a fiber mass prepared in this way it is possible to achieve a targeted clamping effect in the subsequent selection process (Sorting process) to separate the short fibers located in the head end.

It is further proposed that, viewed in the conveying direction of the fiber package, the fiber packet during the sorting process at a predetermined distance from its front End which is exposed to the air flow is clamped. This front one The ecartement of the combing machine is at a distance from the head end of the fiber package comparable. All the short fibers in the head area, which are from the nip are not retained, are dissipated when an air flow is applied.

It is preferably proposed that the air flow - from the clamping point seen - in the direction of the free end of the fiber structure or the fiber package is directed.

The air flow can be generated by a vacuum and / or a pressure source become.

It is further proposed that after the sorting process the clamping force at the Clamping point released and the sorted fiber material of a subsequent band formation unit is transferred to band formation.

The banding can be done by stacking the sorted fiber packages respectively. This process corresponds to the soldering process in the conventional comber.

Furthermore, a method is proposed, wherein at least two fiber associations fed to the fiber sorting device and the ends of the fiber bundles exposed to a common air flow. It is advantageous if the Ends of the individual fiber bundles are brought together and air between the Blown ends of the fiber bandages - starting from the area of their clamping points becomes. This allows compressed air to be directed into the merged ends to blow in all short fibers inside the ends that are not clamped to capture and separate.

To intensify the separation effect, it is suggested that at least one additional one Compressed air flow following the respective clamping point in the direction of the free end and on the outer surfaces of the merged ends of the fiber associations is produced. It would be conceivable to use different air pulses Time intervals.

The invention is also solved by a device, wherein clamping devices are provided, which clamp the fiber structure at a distance from its free end and means are present which allow an air flow from the nip to the free Create the end of the fiber structure.

To prepare the fiber structure, it is proposed that funds be provided are to gradually separate the fiber structure supplied by the feed means Fiber bundles with essentially elongated and parallel to each other aligned individual fibers to dissolve and with means for transferring the fiber packages to a subsequent sorting facility. It is important that the Structure of the fiber bundles formed, or the longitudinal orientation of the fibers in the Transfer to the actual sorting device is retained.

It is proposed that the feed means are formed from a drafting system and the means for producing individual fiber packages from a rotatably mounted roller exists, which forms a nip with a rotatably mounted screen drum, which the The delivery point of the drafting system is opposite. Preferably, the drafting system can be an apron drafting system.

To carry out a targeted pull-off process of the fiber package and for exact Management of the fiber bundle after the withdrawal process is proposed that the Take-off roller over a portion of its circumference, at least in the area of Clamping point is wrapped with a circumferentially mounted belt.

It is advantageous if the belt has a connection to the clamping point Part of the sieve drum rests on the circumference of the sieve drum. This will ensures optimal guidance of the fiber package formed. That means the fiber package is forced, whereby the individual fibers their position during the Keep removal.

To intensify the clamping effect during the pulling process of the fiber package from the end of the fiber structure is suggested; that the sieve drum with surveys are spaced around their circumference. These surveys together with the belt, which is placed around the take-off roller, form a secure one Clamping point and ensure a safe transport of the in the clamping point held fibers. The elevations can be made of elastic material in order to generate gentle clamping. It is also possible for those with the sieve drum cooperating take-off roller to be provided with an elastic coating.

Another embodiment is possible, the elevations on the sieve drum being omitted and be attached to the circumferential belt. It just has to be guaranteed that in the removal area between the screening drum and the Pulling roller a targeted clamping force can be applied to the fiber bundles pull out of the end of the presented fiber structure. In addition, the Safe further transport of the fiber packages guaranteed without the occurrence of compression become.

The distance between the bumps attached to the screen drum or belt must be greater than the length of the longest fiber in the fiber structure.

To support the management of the withdrawn fiber packets, it would be conceivable in A vacuum in the inside of the drum, so that the The ends come to rest securely on the sieve drum.

It is also proposed that the axis-parallel to the screen drum a rotatably mounted Separation drum is associated with several radially outward Suction slots is provided, the suction slots in the position of the smallest Distance to the outer circumference of the screening drum correspond to a vacuum space, which is arranged in the interior of the separation drum and with a Absorbent is connected. The distance between the outer shell of the screening drum and the separation drum can be chosen so that at the time the creation of a negative pressure in the correspondingly positioned suction slot Clamping effect is exerted on the fiber package. The clamping line generated is located at a distance from the front end of the fiber bundle, which means that all are not pinched Components (e.g. short fibers) are removed from the generated air flow in the suction slot become.

In order to achieve an exact and defined clamping point, it is proposed that - in Seen the direction of rotation of the separation drum - after the respective opening the suction slots on the outer circumference of the separation drum elastic elevations are provided in the position of the smallest distance between the screening drum and the separating drum has a clamping effect with the outer circumference of the Practice the sieve drum. In this version there is a distance between the outer jacket the sieve drum and the separating drum, the distance being smaller seen as the height of the elastic bump in the radial direction of the separation drum. This ensures that the elastic bump is in this area deformed and can exert a compressive force on the fiber package.

For the safe transfer of the fiber packets, it is proposed that at least one Subarea between the area where the strap is on the outer circumference of the Screen drum rests and means are provided to the transfer area to the separating drum to create a vacuum inside the drum. The negative pressure only has to be large enough so that the position and orientation of the individual fibers does not change in the fiber package during transport to the transfer point. Partially However, it may already be possible in this area by applying the negative pressure to extract short components such as dust from the fiber mass.

In order to remove the selected fiber material, it is proposed that axially parallel to the Abscheidetrommel a rotatably mounted removal roller is provided, the outer circumference the separation drum affects.

The take-off roller can be fitted with a clothing on its outer circumference his.

Around the front ends, fiber bundles for the selection process are safely in the respective To introduce a suction slot, it would be conceivable to have a source of positive pressure inside the sieve drum attach through which a flow of compressed air towards the suction slot is produced.

Another embodiment of the invention results when the fiber sorting device at least two fiber bundles are supplied via funding, and for each Fiber association movably mounted clamping elements are provided, which with a cooperate common management element.

It is also possible to have more than two fiber groups of the fiber sorting device to be supplied with the appropriate design of the clamping device.

It would also be conceivable to place the fiber bundles in front of the clamping point using a drafting device to prepare them for the subsequent sorting process.

As a further embodiment, it is proposed that at least one in the guide means Air nozzle is arranged, the opening - seen in the conveying direction of the fiber dressings - opens into the connection and between the clamping points and with a compressed air source connected is. The air nozzle extends over the entire width of the supplied Fiber structures.

A variant is also possible, with several fiber bundles lying next to one another (e.g. slivers) are fed to the terminal point.

The term "fiber structure" can, for example, a non-woven fabric, a cotton wool, a fiber band or the like. The advantageous further developments listed below can also refer to an execution, whereby only a single one Fiber dressing is fed to the clamping elements. (That is, without merging the ends of at least two fiber associations).

With regard to the feeding of several fiber associations, it is also proposed that that the guide element is provided with opposite guide troughs is, in each of which a conveyor roller dips, which serves as a funding.

To intensify the separation effect, it is also proposed that air nozzles in the area and following the clamping surfaces of the clamping elements in the clamping elements are integrated and connected to a compressed air source. This is it is possible that the end projecting beyond the clamping point in the longitudinal direction also laterally to be pressurized with compressed air. This intensifies the separation effect.

For pulling a fiber bundle out of the selected end of the fiber structure it is proposed that the clamping elements form a pair of rollers forming a clamping line is subordinate.

It is conceivable that the feed devices in the direction with released clamping elements of the pair of rollers to be displaceable, so that the front end of the fiber structure are detected by the clamping line of the following pair of rollers can.

This pull-off process is the tearing-off process of the combed beard at Equate comber.

To the waste material released during the blowing process of the free end of the fiber structure it is proposed that at least one of the rollers of the Roller pair is provided as a hollow cylinder with outward openings, wherein the cavity is connected to a vacuum medium. The outward facing Openings are only on a partial area of the circumference of the hollow cylinder available, so that during the tear-off process, on the one hand, a closed clamping line in the There is a pair of rollers and, on the other hand, suction of the removed good fibers is prevented. Inside the hollow cylinder can be an additional fixed Aperture can be provided to close the outward opening causes.

A belt forming unit is preferably arranged downstream of the pair of rollers a sieve drum and a take-off roller which interacts with the sieve drum can be formed.

In order to bring together the fiber packages delivered by the pair of rollers and to take over, it is proposed that the interior of the screen drum with a vacuum source is connected and covers on the inside of the drum are provided that the interior except for a section before the nip Isolate from the ambient air between the screening drum and the take-off roller.

In order to remove any remaining components, such as nits, adhesives, etc., from the air flow has not been removed, it is suggested an adjustable comb element between the clamping elements and the pair of rollers provided. This comb element is comparable to a fixed comb Combing machine, which sticks into the fiber material to be torn off during the tearing process. The comb element in the presently claimed would have the same function Fulfill execution.

The belt formation unit can also be formed from a rotating conveyor belt be arranged transversely to the discharge direction of the pair of rollers. It is advantageous to provide the conveyor belt with air-permeable openings and at least to provide means below the delivery area on the conveyor belt Generation of a negative pressure. This ensures safe removal of the fiber packets guaranteed on the conveyor belt.

Furthermore, a device is proposed, wherein at least one guide means extending along the free end of the fiber bandage is provided and the fiber sorting device is supplied with the fiber bandage via a conveying means which interacts with a guide element.
This makes it possible to guide the free end on one side during the blowing process. Advantageously, a movably mounted clamping element interacts with the guide element and forms a clamping point with the latter.
It is further proposed that at least one air nozzle is provided in the guide element, the opening of which opens after the clamping point between the free end of the fiber structure and the guide means and is connected to a compressed air source.
This makes it possible to generate an air flow between the free end of the fiber structure and the guide element, which can preferably be a plate. The air flowing along the plate creates a negative pressure area which causes the free end to be drawn towards the surface of the plate and thus ensures that air flows through the free end. The same effect has already been used in another form of application, namely for detaching a cotton end from a cotton roll, which was described, for example, in EP-A1 482 475. In this case, however, the air flow is only used to detach the cotton web and not for selection, especially since there is no defined clamping line and the detachment process takes place at intervals of at least three hours.
The proposal to make the end of the guide means or the plate flexible makes it possible to move the free end of the plate into a different position for the blowing-out process or the transfer process of the blown-out end, which supports the processes described above, or relieved.
This adjustment can be carried out by the adjustment device which is also proposed and which acts on the free end of the plate.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Seitenansicht eines ersten Ausführungsbeispieles einer erfindungsgemäss beanspruchten Fasersortiereinrichtung.

Fig.1a - Fig. 1c

schematisch die Bildung eines Faserpaketes.

Fig. 2

schematisch ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäss beanspruchten Fasersortiereinrichtung.

Fig. 3

einen vergrösserten Teilausschnitt der Fig. 2.

Fig. 4

mehrere Ausführungsvarianten von Düsenöffnungen

Fig. 5

eine Ausführungsvariante einer Bandbildungseinheit gemäss Fig. 2

Fig. 6

eine schematische Draufsicht der Fig. 5

Fig.7

eine schematische Darstellung eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiele einer erfindungsgemäss beanspruchten Fasersortiereinrichtung.

For suction of the separated components, it is advantageous if suction devices are arranged in the region of the free end of the guide means, which is opposite the free end of the fiber structure.
Furthermore, it is proposed to arrange a displaceable pair of rollers for the clamping point, or to connect a belt forming unit to the pair of rollers. This makes it possible to move the pair of rollers to the free end after the blow-out process in order to pull a fiber package from this end.
Further advantages are shown and described in more detail using the following description. Show it:

Fig. 1

is a schematic side view of a first embodiment of a fiber sorting device claimed according to the invention.

Fig.1a - Fig. 1c

schematically the formation of a fiber package.

Fig. 2

schematically another embodiment of the fiber sorting device claimed according to the invention.

Fig. 3

3 shows an enlarged partial section of FIG. 2.

Fig. 4

several versions of nozzle openings

Fig. 5

an embodiment of a band forming unit according to FIG. 2

Fig. 6

5 shows a schematic top view of FIG. 5

Figure 7

is a schematic representation of another embodiment of a fiber sorting device claimed according to the invention.

Fig. 1 shows a drafting system 1, in which e.g. a sliver 10 is stretched. The The drafting system 1 is equipped with a pair of straps 2 as an apron drafting system. The from the straps 2 released and warped sliver 10 is between a subsequent screening drum 3 and a roller 5, which faces the screening drum 3, issued. The roller 5 is partially wrapped by a belt 6, the is placed over further rollers 7 and 8. The roller 7 is schematic with a indicated drive 12 connected.

As shown schematically, the screening drum 3 is rotatably mounted in guide rollers 14, wherein at least one of the guide rollers is connected to a drive 15.

Elastic clamping strips 18 are attached to the outer jacket of the screening drum 3, which run parallel to the axis of rotation of the screening drum.

In the interior of the screening drum 3, a fixed channel 20 is arranged to the side the inner wall of the sieve drum is open. The channel 20 is a schematic Line 21 shown connected to a vacuum source 22. This will in this Area of the screen cylinder jacket creates an air flow, which from the outside to works inside. This is shown schematically by the dashed arrows.

As also shown, there is a correspondingly prepared fiber package 24 in the Area of the channel 20 and is on the negative pressure applied in the channel 20 on the Outer jacket SU of the screening drum held. The tear-off process to obtain the fiber package 24 will be described in more detail later.

A separating drum 30 is rotatably arranged below the screening drum 3, which is provided with a fixed tube 32 inside. The interior of the Pipe 32. is via the schematically illustrated line 33 with a vacuum source 34 connected. The tube 32 is provided with a slot 36 in the axial direction with radially outwardly directed and circumferential air slots 38 around the tube 32 can correspond. The separation drum 30 is designed so that the slot 36 is sealed off from the surroundings of the separating drum 30 if none Louvre 38 faces opening 36.

The separating drum 30 is in its guide rollers 40 shown schematically Position held, with at least one of the guide rollers 40 with a drive 42 in Connection is established. Seen in the direction of rotation of the separating drum 30, are behind each the air slots 38 elastic clamping elements attached to the outer jacket AU. The mode of operation of these elastic clamping elements 44 is described below discussed in more detail.

A removal roller 46 acts with the outer circumference AU of the separating drum 30 together, which e.g. with a set 47 (partially shown) on its circumference is provided. The fibrous material 50 (e.g. in the form of a Fiber fleece) is transferred to a pair of draw-off rollers 51 and to a subsequent, transported further processing stage, not shown.

The operation of this device is now described below:

The drafting system 1 is e.g. a sliver 10 fed and warped in the drafting system. The end E protruding from the straps 2 reaches the gap between the peripheral surface SU the screen drum 3 and the belt 6, which is guided on the roller 5 becomes. One of the elastic clamping elements passes through the rotary movement of the sieve drum 3 18 in the described area and clamps the end E against the outer surface of the belt 6 in the area of the roller 5. Due to the fact that the peripheral speed the sieve drum 3 is greater than the conveying speed of the Strappy 2, the fibers are pulled out of the end E of the sliver 10, which are clamped between the terminal block 18 and the belt 6. This creates a thin fiber package 24 with longitudinally oriented individual fibers.

The process of forming the fiber bundle 24 is schematic in FIGS. 1a to 1c shown. Fig. 1a shows the end E, which is released by the straps 2. about the clamping strips 18, a clamping line KL is generated and the clamping line KL opposite moved to the end E. As shown in FIG. 1b, a thin point D is formed and with further displacement of the clamping point, a fiber bundle released from the end E. 24, as shown in Fig. 1c. The head K of the fiber bundle 24 forms one fiber end-oriented fiber package, with the short fibers essentially in the range of the head K are. The clamping effect between the belt 6 and the Clamping element 18 on the detached fiber packet 24 remains during the passage received between the rollers 5 and 8, whereby a targeted onward transport of the Fiber bundle 24 guaranteed without changing its structure (longitudinal fibers) becomes.

As soon as the fiber package has passed the roller 8, it is caused by the negative pressure applied held in channel 20 on the surface SU of the drum 3. The front one End K of the fiber package 24 is still on the terminal block 18. While the fiber package 24 shown is transported in the direction of the separating drum 30, 18 additional fiber bundles 24 (not shown) are pulled out of the end E. The promotion of the sliver 10 takes place continuously, while the withdrawal process for producing the fiber packs 24 is discontinuous he follows.

The fiber package 24 shown arrives with further transport or with further rotation the screening drum 3 in the delivery area A between the screening drum 3 and the subsequent separating roller 30. By the simultaneous rotation of the separating roller 30 hits a clamping element 44 on the fiber package 24, causing a clamping arises between the outer jacket SU of the screening drum 3 and the terminal block 44. The angular position during operation of the sieve drum 3 and the separating drum 30 is selected so that the clamping line generated by the terminal strip 44 at a distance from the front end K of the fiber package 24. This distance at the head end of the fiber package can be equated to the ecartement in the combing machine and can be changed by changing the angular position between the two Drums 3 and 30 can be set. Shortly after generation of the described Clamping, the end of the suction slot 38 overlaps the opening 36, whereby an air flow due to the negative pressure in the tube 32 takes place inwards. Thereby is the front end, or the head K of the fiber package 24, which the Exceeds the clamping point of the clamping element 44 and is drawn into the suction slot 38. All the components (short fibers) of the. Not clamped by the clamping element 44 end protruding into the suction slit 38 are now expelled by the air flow the fiber package 24 detached and discharged inward into the channel 32. About the Vacuum source 34 is the material discharged into the channel 32 from the area of Pipe 32 disposed of.

The fixed disposal pipe 32 can be designed so that possible deposits of dirt between the fixed part and the rotating part Part of the separation drum are continuously sucked off.

With further rotation of the drum 30, the front end of the fiber package remains 24 in the slot 38; the rear end is slightly lifted off by the centrifugal force that occurs. As soon as this rear end the area of the subsequent take-off roller 46, this is detected by the clothing 47, whereby the fiber package 24 is taken and pulled out of the air slot 38. With this entrainment the end of the fiber bundle 24 is pulled off the end of a previously withdrawn Fiber bundle placed, which creates a tile-like connection. The thus formed nonwoven 50 can then a subsequent pair of take-off rollers 51 to Further transport for subsequent processing steps can be supplied. On the presentation of special detachment devices of the nonwoven fabric 50 from the take-off roller 46 was waived. Here, reference is made to corresponding elements that already exist in the outlet of a card.

The embodiment shown represents only one possible variant for carrying out the invention Another variant is now described below.

In FIG. 2, a sliver F1 or F2 is fed into the area via the rollers 54 and 55 a conveyor trough M1, or M2 of a guide part 58 fed. In the respective Conveyor trough M1 or M2 engages a feed roller 60 or 61.

Between the two troughs M1, M2 is the guide member 58 with an air slot 63 provided which has an opening 64. This is particularly true in the 3 to see enlarged view. 4 are different possibilities shown how this opening 64 can be formed. The opening is in Fig. 4a) provided with a longitudinal slot 66 which extends across the width of the guide part 58 extends. In the illustration according to FIG. 4b), several are next to one another for the passage of air lying holes 67 used. 4c) shows a further embodiment, a larger number of holes 68 being provided for the passage of air. In the illustration according to FIG. 4d) there are cross-slot-shaped ones lying next to one another Openings 69 for use.

There are many more combinations and designs possible for the respective application can be used.

As shown schematically, the air slot 63 is via line 70 with a compressed air source 71 connected. Above the mouth area (opening 64 of the louvre 63) each have a clamping element 75, 76, a clamping effect on those transported downwards Slivers F1 and F2 and form a on the guide member 58 Terminal point K1 or K2. The downward ends of the slivers F1 and F2 are brought together below the opening 63 and form a common free End of E1.

As shown particularly in FIG. 3, the air flow emanating from the air slot 63 is formed between the two superimposed and a common end E1 Ends of the slivers F1 and F2 directed. How this facility works will be discussed in more detail later.

As can also be seen from FIG. 3, in the area of the ends of the clamping elements 75 and 76 additional air nozzles 77 and 78 distributed over the width are provided be, which via the schematically shown lines 79, 80 with an overpressure source 81 are connected. An additional flow of compressed air can pass through these nozzles 77 and 78, respectively be generated in the direction of the outgoing end E1, which is the end E1 can penetrate essentially from the outside in. Through these additional Compressed air flow ensures that the entire end E1 is complete with air flowing through it, so that all components (short fibers, dirt, nits etc.), which are not held by the clamping points K1 and K2, by the Air flow is separated down. The roller 83 is rotating Provided hollow body 87 which has an opening 89. Inside the revolving Hollow body 87, a fixed diaphragm 88 is provided, which has an opening 90 is equipped. As shown schematically, the interior of the aperture 88 is included a vacuum source 92 connected via line 93. From this it can be seen that as soon as the openings 89 and 90 are in register, from the end E1 deposited material can be sucked off via the interior of the aperture 88. The roller 82 is designed as a full roller and can e.g. with a rubber cover for the peeling process. There is one below the pair of rollers 85 Belt forming unit 95, which consists of a rotating drum 97 and a with the sieve drum cooperating rubberized roller 99. Within the screen drum 97 is a fixed aperture 98, the interior of which is connected to a vacuum source 102. In the area in front of a terminal point 101 between the roller 99 and the screening drum 97 is the aperture with openings 100 Mistake. The openings that allow the ambient air to be sucked in are in the shown example with a different cross-sectional area. Here is the Cross-sectional area of the opening 100 smallest, which of the clamping point 101 next one is. This means that the suction force on the removed fiber package FP is in this area is the smallest while increasing the cross section of the openings 100 grows. This is to ensure that the ends of the Place the removed FP fiber bundles securely on the outer circumference of the sieve drum 97. With this facility, it is possible to gradually deliver the downwards Fiber packets FP to be stacked on top of each other like roof tiles, so that ultimately one Band B is formed, which over a subsequent pair of rollers 104 down can be deducted to transfer e.g. subsequent collection facilities (Jug).

As can also be seen in FIG. 3, between the clamping elements 75, 76 and an adjustable comb element 105 can be provided to the pair of rollers 85 two adjustable comb elements 106 and 107 is provided. This comb element 105 can be compared to the fixed comb of a combing machine and then comes into engagement into the free end E1, if a fiber package from the roller pair 85 End E1 is pulled down. This makes it possible not yet through the Air flow completely eliminated short components and also contamination during Withhold the pulling process and also separate. That means the comb element 105 serves as an additional separation aid.

5 shows another possibility of a banding unit 95, where instead a revolving conveyor belt 110 is used, which with air-permeable Openings 111 is provided. This is particularly the case in FIG. 6 remove. The conveyor belt 110 is guided over two rollers 112, 113, wherein one of these rollers is connected to a drive, not shown. On on the inside of the revolving conveyor belt 110 is an upwardly open channel 115 provided, which is connected via line 116 to a vacuum source 117. This channel 115 is located in the area of the conveyor belt in which the from the fiber bundles 85 peeled off from the rollers are stacked on top of each other like roof tiles to form a closed sliver B.

6 is shown by the schematically indicated axes A1 and A2 shows that the axes of the roller pairs 85 are also inclined to the direction of withdrawal T can be aligned. This can have an additional effect in terms of Blurring of the solder joints can be achieved.

The mode of operation of the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 6 is described below explained in more detail.

The fiber tapes F1 and F2 fed via the rollers 54 and 55 (instead of the fiber tapes, nonwovens or cotton webs could also be fed) reach the area of the feed troughs M1 and M2, as a result of which they are picked up and transported on by the rollers 60 and 61, respectively. Below the opening 63 of the guide part 58, the two ends of the slivers F1, F2 are brought together to form a single end E1. As soon as the free end E1 has reached a predetermined projection below the guide part 58, the feed via the rollers 54, 55 and the rollers 60 and 61 is interrupted. The clamping elements 75 and 76 are displaced (pivoted) in the direction of the guide part 58 via a mechanism (not shown) and form a clamping point K1, K2 on the fiber sliver F1 or F2. An air pulse is then generated via the compressed air source 71 through the opening 64 of the air gap 63, which penetrates the free end E1 and releases non-clamped components (eg short fibers) from the end E1. As can be seen in particular in FIG. 3, the air jet, starting from the air slot 63, penetrates the end E1 in the region where the two ends of the slivers F1 and F2 overlap. The so-called "Bernoulli effect" holds the two components of the free end E1 together, which ensures that air flows through the entire fiber material of the end E1. To further increase the separation effect, additional air pulses can be applied from the nozzles 77 and 78 to the end E1. After the blowing interval, the clamping points K1 and K2 are released again by retracting the clamping elements 75 and 76. During the blow-out process, the roller 83 has the position shown, the opening 89 facing the opening 90 and the separated material being able to be discharged through the openings with the aid of the vacuum source 92. It would also be conceivable to provide additional suction devices, which are not shown here. As arranged by a double arrow, the guide part 58 including the rollers 54, 55 and 60, 61 can be displaced in the direction of the roller pair 85, so that the tip of the blown-out end E1 reaches the nip between the rollers 82 and 83. It is also possible, instead of moving the guide part 58 onto the pair of rollers 85, to move the pair of rollers 85 towards the guide part 58 in order to grasp the fibers of the free end E1.
As soon as the end E1 is held in the clamping point of the pair of rollers 85, the comb shown in FIG. 3 can also be delivered. The opening 89 of the hollow body 87 is now in a position which is opposite the position shown in FIG. 2. This means that the closed shell of the hollow body is used for the removal process. The pair of rollers 85 is now set in motion and a fiber bundle FP is withdrawn from the end E1, which is detected by the clamping point of the pair of rollers 85. This fiber bundle FP is transferred downward into a clamping point 101 of the pair of rollers 95, the freed rear end of the fiber bundle FP resting on the screen drum 97, which is promoted by the openings 100, which are connected to the vacuum chamber of the screen 98. The front end of the fiber package FP is connected to an end of a previously removed fiber package FP that is still located in the clamping point 101, or is stacked on top of it in the manner of a roof tile.

The band B thus formed becomes a downward position via the clamping point 101 Roller pair 104 removed for further transport.

The embodiment according to FIGS. 5 and 6 is attached instead of the pair of rollers 95 and has a circumferential and air-permeable conveyor belt 110. The fiber package FP delivered downwards by the pair of rollers 85 is stacked on the ends of the previously delivered fiber packages and connected to them in the manner of a roof tile. This process is supported by the application of a negative pressure via the channel 105, as a result of which the free ends or the fiber sliver or fiber fleece B formed are kept positioned on the surface of the transport belt 110.
It is also conceivable to arrange a plurality of fiber selection devices above the conveyor belt 106, which all deliver the selected fiber material onto the same conveyor belt and correspond to a common association.

FIG. 7 shows a further exemplary embodiment, which is designed similarly to the example in FIG. 2. Instead of a second supplied fiber composite, there is a guide plate 127 which faces the end E2 of the fiber composite F3. One or more slivers F3 (or cotton, fleece, etc.) are conveyed here via the guide part 121, which is provided with a guide trough M3, under the action of a feed cylinder 120 in the direction of a clamping point K3.
The clamping point K3 is located in the tapered end of the guide part 121 and is generated by an adjustable clamping element 132. The adjustment movement of the clamping element 132 is shown schematically with a double arrow.
In the interior of the guide part there is an air slot 123, the opening of which ends below and in front of the clamping point K3. The opening can be designed in accordance with the designs shown in FIG. The air slot is connected via line 124 to a vacuum source 125.
It is also conceivable, as shown in FIG. 3, to also provide an additional comb element 105 that can be delivered.
A slidably mounted plate 127 is attached below the guide part 121, the front end 122 of which is flexible. At this end engages a lever 126 which is connected to an adjustment mechanism, not shown. Using this lever 126, it is possible to transfer the end 122 into the positions shown in broken lines. A guide element 128 is provided for the horizontal guidance of the plate 127 and in the rear region of the plate a cylinder 130 engages in the articulation point 129, which serves to move the plate.
Above the plate 127, a suction device 134 is provided, which serves to suction the separated waste material.
A horizontally displaceable pair of rollers 135 is then attached, which is provided for pulling fiber bundles out of the selected end E2.
Furthermore, as already described in the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2, the pair of rollers 135 is followed by a belt forming unit 137 with a rotatably mounted screen cylinder 138 and an aperture 139 arranged in the interior of the screen cylinder, which are arranged with openings 140 in the removal area in front of a clamping point 144. the interior of the diaphragm 139 is connected to a vacuum source 147.
A roller 141 interacts with the sieve drum 138 and can be provided with a rubber coating.
The sliver B discharged from the screening drum is conveyed on by a subsequent pair of rollers 145.
The operation of this device is briefly described below:
The fiber material F3 is conveyed via the conveyor trough M3 and the feed cylinder 120 over the area of the clamping point K3. The plate 127 takes the bold straight and foremost position.
As soon as the protrusion of the free end has reached a certain value above the clamping point K3, the clamping element 132 is displaced in the direction of the guide part 121 and the fiber material F3 is clamped at the clamping point K3. The funding has meanwhile been interrupted. Now the front end of the plate 127 is shifted to the upper, dash-dotted position via the lever 126, whereby the free end E3 is also carried upward with the plate 127. A compressed air flow is generated via the compressed air source 125 and via the air slot 123 and propagates in the direction of a suction device 134, which has meanwhile been switched on. Due to the air jet guided along the surface of the plate 127, the end E2 (as already described above) is drawn onto the plate and completely blown through with the air flow. The short fibers detached from the end E2 and other detached components are sucked off via the suction channel 134.
The compressed air supply is now cut off again and the clamping element 132 is raised again from the guide part 121. At the same time, the lever 122 is used to pivot the end 122 of the plate 127 into the position shown in dash-dot lines below and to move it rearward via the cylinder 130. This creates enough free space so that the pair of rollers 135 can then be displaced in the direction of the nip K3 until the free end E2 is gripped and pulled off at the nip point of the pair of rollers 135. This peeling process is comparable to the tearing process in a conventional combing machine. After a fiber package has been pulled out of the free end E2 in this way, the pair of rollers is shifted in the direction of a subsequent band forming unit 137. There, this fiber package is placed on the end of a previously delivered fiber package in the manner of a roof tile (soldering process) and connected to it at the clamping point 144. The sliver B thus formed then arrives at a pair of rollers 145, which delivers the material, for example, to a subsequent and not shown receiving device (can).
Meanwhile, the end of the plate 127 has been moved back to the extended and forward position; the selection and the subsequent pulling process starts again.

The design variants shown are only examples, further design variants are possible within the scope of the invention.

With the devices shown it is possible without the use of large mass accelerations and reversing movements and at high working speeds carry out a targeted fiber selection.

Claims (46)

1. Method for sorting the fibres of a fibre strand (10, F1, F2) which is supplied to a fibre sorting device (30, 3875, 76, 58, 63), characterized in that the fibre strand (10, F1, F2) is clamped transverse to its transporting direction and that the free end (E1) projecting beyond the clamping point (K1, K2) is exposed to an air flow which is able to extract and remove not clamped parts, e.g. short fibres, neps, dust etc., from the free end.
2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the fibre strand (10), before reaching the sorting device (30), is divided into individual fibre packages (24) with single fibres extending essentially in longitudinal direction and being approximately parallel aligned to each other.
3. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the fibre packages (24) following one after the other at intervals, are formed by intermittently pulling-out fibres from the free end (E) of the fibre strand.
4. Method according to one of the claims 2 to 3, characterized in that during the sorting procedure the fibre package - seen in conveying direction of the fibre package (24) - is clamped at a pre-determined distance to its front end (K) which is being exposed to the air flow.
5. Method according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the airflow - as seen from the clamping point (K1, K2) - is directed towards the free end (E1) of the fibre strand (F1, F2), and/or the fibre package (24).
6. Method according to one of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the free end (E 1) extending beyond the clamping point (K 1, K2) is subjected to a suction airflow.
7. Method according to one of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the free end (E1), extending beyond the clamping point (K1, K2), is subjected to a compressed air flow.
8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after the sorting procedure the clamping force at the clamping point (K1, K2) is released and the sorted fibre material is transferred to a succeeding strand forming unit (95) for the strand formation.
9. Method according to one of the claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the strand formation takes place by partially arranging the sorted fibre packages (24) in layers.
10. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that at least two fibre strands (F1, F2) are supplied to the fibre sorting device and that at the same time the ends of the fibre strands are exposed to a common air flow.
11. Method according to claim 10, characterized in that the ends of the fibre strands (F1, F2) are united and that - starting from the zone of the clamping point (K1, K2) - air is blown between the ends of the fibre strands.
12. Method according to claim 10, characterized in that succeeding the respective clamping point (K1, K2) at least one additional compressed air current is generated in the direction of the free end and onto the outer surfaces of the merged ends (E1) of the fibre strands (F1, F2).
13. Device for sorting the fibres of a fibre strand (10, F1, F2), which is supplied to a fibre sorting device by conveying means (1, 3, 54, 55, 60, 61, 58), characterized in that clamping devices (44,75,76) are provided which clamp the fibre strand (24, F1, F2) at a distance to its free end (E1) and that means (33, 34, 36, 38, 63, 70, 71) are present which generate an air flow from the clamping point (K1, K2) towards the free end (E1) of the fibre strand, in order to extract and remove not clamped parts, e.g. short fibres, neps, dust etc., from the free end.
14. Device according to claim 13, characterized in that means (18, 5, 6) are provided in order to step by step dissolve the fibre strand (10), supplied by the supply means (1), into individual fibre packages (24) with single fibres extending essentially in longitudinal direction and being parallel aligned to each other and with means (3) for the transfer of the fibre packages to a succeeding sorting device (30).
15. Device according to claim 14, characterized in that the supply means are formed by a drafting unit (1) and that the means for the generation of individual fibre packages (24) consist of a rotatably mounted roller (5) which, together with a rotatably mounted sieve drum (3), forms a clamping point which faces the discharge point of the drafting unit (1).
16. Device according to claim 15, characterized in that the roller (5) on a partial section of its circumference, at least within the zone of the clamping point, is enveloped by a circulating mounted belt (6).
17. Device according to claim 16, characterized in that the belt (6), after the clamping point, rests on the circumference of the sieve drum (3) on a partial section of the sieve drum.
18. Device according to one of the claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the sieve drum (3) is provided with projections (18) on its circumference, said projections being distributed in spaces.
19. Device according to one of the claims 15 to 18, characterized in that the drafting unit (1) is a tape type drafting unit.
20. Device according to one of the claims 15 to 19, characterized in that parallel to the axis of the sieve drum (3) a rotary mounted separating drum (30) is arranged which is provided with several suction slots (38) directed radially outward, whereby the suction slots in the position of the smallest distance in relation to the outer circumference (SU) of the sieve drum (3) correspond with a vacuum space (32) which is stationary arranged inside the separating drum (30) and which is connected with a suction means (34).
21. Device according to claim 20, characterized in that - seen in the direction of rotation of the separating drum (30) - following the respective opening of the suction slots (38), flexible projections (44) are provided on the outer circumference (AU) of the separating drum (30), which projections, in the position of the smallest distance between the sieve drum (3) and the separating drum (30), exert a clamping effect onto the outer circumference (SU) of the sieve drum.
22. Device according to one of the claims 20 to 21, characterized in that, at least in a partial section, between the zone where the belt (6) rests on the outer circumference (SU) of the sieve drum (3) and the delivery area (A) on the separating drum (30), means (20, 21, 22) are provided to generate a vacuum inside the sieve drum (3).
23. Device according to one of the claims 20 to 22, characterized in that parallel to the axis of the separating drum (30) a rotary mounted doffer roller (46) is provided which tangentially contacts the outer circumference (AU) of the separating drum (30).
24. Device according to claim 23, characterized in that the doffer roller (46) is provided with a clothing (47) on its outer circumference.
25. Device according to claim 13, characterized in that the fibre sorting device is supplied by way of conveying means (54, 55, 60, 61) with at least two fibre strands (F1, F2) and that for each fibre strand movably mounted clamping elements (75,76) are provided which cooperate with a common guiding element (58).
26. Device according to claim 25, characterized in that in the guiding means (58) at least one air nozzle (63) is arranged whose opening (64) - seen in conveying direction of the fibre strands (F1, F2) - opens after and between the clamping points (K1, K2) and is connected with a source for compressed air (71).
27. Device according to one of the claims 25 to 26, characterized in that the guiding element (58) is provided with guiding hollows (M1, M2) positioned opposite it, into each of which engages a respective conveying roller (60,61) which serves as conveying means.
28. Device according to one of the claims 25 to 27, characterized in that air nozzles (77, 78) are integrated, within the zone and after the clamping surfaces of the clamping elements (75, 76), in said clamping elements and that said air nozzles are being connected with a source of compressed air (81).
29. Device according to one of the claims 24 to 28, characterized in that the clamping elements (75, 76) are followed by a pair of rollers (85) which forms a clamping line.
30. Device according to claim 29, characterized in that at least one of the rollers (82, 83) of the pair of rollers (85) is provided as hollow cylinder (87) with outward directed openings (89), whereby the hollow space is connected with a vacuum means (92).
31. Device according to one of the claims 29 to 30, characterized in that the pair of rollers (85) is followed by a strand forming unit (95).
32. Device according to claim 31, characterized in that the strand forming unit (95) consists of a sieve drum (97) and a doffer roller (99) cooperating with the sieve drum.
33. Device according to claim 32, characterized in that the inner space of the sieve drum (97) is connected with a source of vacuum (102) and covers (98) on the inside of the sieve drum (97) are provided which shield the inner space, except for a partial section in front of the clamping point (101) between the sieve drum (97) and the doffer roller (99), against the ambient air.
34. Device according to one of the claims 25 to 33, characterized in that between the clamping elements (75, 76) and the pair of rollers a closable comb component (105) is provided.
35. Device according to one of the claims 29 to 34, characterized in that the guiding means (58) is mounted shiftably in direction toward the pair of rollers (85).
36. Device according to claim 31, characterized in that the strand forming unit (95) is formed by way of a circulating conveyor belt (110), which is arranged transverse to the discharge direction of the pair of rollers (85).
37. Device according to claim 36, characterized in that the conveyor belt (110) is provided with air permeable openings (111) and that at least below the discharging zone onto the conveyor belt, means (115, 116, 117) are provided for the generation of a vacuum.
38. Device according to claim 13, characterized in that at least one guiding means (127), extending along the free end (E2) of the fibre strand (F3), is provided and that the fibre strand (F3) is supplied to the fibre sorting device by way of a conveying means (120) which cooperates with a guiding element (121).
39. Device according to claim 38, characterized in that at least one movably mounted clamping element (132) is provided which cooperates with the guiding element (121).
40. Device according to one of the claims 38 to 39, characterized in that within the guiding element (121) at least one air nozzle (123) is provided whose outlet opens after the clamping point (K3) between the free end (E2) of the fibre strand (F3) and the guiding means (127), and which is connected with a source for compressed air (125).
41. Device according to one of the claims 38 to 40, characterized in that the guiding means (127) is formed by a plate being shiftable in longitudinal direction.
42. Device according to one of the claims 38 to 41, characterized in that the end (122) of the guiding means (127), directing towards the free end (E2) of the fibre material (F3), is flexible.
43. Device according to claim 42, characterized in that the flexible free end (122) of the guiding means (127) is connected with an adjustment device (126).
44. Device according to one of the claims 38 to 43, characterized in that within the zone of the free end (122) of the guiding means (127), which faces the free end (E2) of the fibre strand (F3), a suction device (134) is arranged.
45. Device according to one of the claims 38 to 44, characterized in that succeeding the clamping point a shiftable pair of rollers (135) is arranged.
46. Device according to claim 45, characterized in that the pair of rollers (135) is followed by a strand forming unit (137).

Images