EP1908866A1 - Device and process for connecting threads from a first thread layer with threads from a second thread layer - Google Patents

Abstract

The apparatus has several drive motors (e.g. 40, 41, 42) for moving the movable part subgroups (e.g. 35, 36, 37) and a controller, by which the drive motors can be controlled independently of each other. One of the subgroups (35) is coupled to one of the drive motors (40), and at least one more of them to another drive motor, so that the respective parts of the subgroups can be moved independently of the subgroups themselves. The control process is also described.

Description

The invention relates to a device for joining threads of a first thread layer with threads of a second thread layer, which device comprises a plurality of movable parts and a drive for moving the movable parts, wherein threads of the first and the second thread layer by moving the Respective parts can be influenced in such a way that a connection can be established between the respective threads. The invention further relates to a corresponding method for joining threads of a first thread layer with threads of a second thread layer by moving a plurality of movable parts.

In many industrial processes based on the processing of filaments (eg processes for the production of fabrics, textiles, etc.), the handling of filament layers, which consist of a multiplicity of filaments arranged side by side, for example in parallel, plays a central role Role. For example, the warp threads of a warp, as they are processed on weaving machines, usually arranged more or less close to each other and thus form a mostly flat (warp) thread layer.

Techniques for joining threads of a first thread layer with threads of a second thread layer are used inter alia in connection with weaving machines. For example, when weaving with a loom, the warp threads of a warp are processed lengthwise, then it is common to the ends of the warp threads of the processed warp connect with the warp threads of a new web chain and then continue the web process with the new web chain.

For joining individual threads, a number of methods are used, for example, linking, wrapping, gluing, splicing, welding or the like. In such methods, it is usually necessary to act with moving parts on the threads to be joined.

To connect warp threads today mostly mobile knotting devices are used, which are used directly on weaving machines and serve to connect the warp threads of a warp with the warp threads of another warp by means of nodes. The main components of such a knotting device are: (i) a mobile frame (knotting frame) for mounting two thread layers (warps) and (ii) a knotting machine which is placed on the frame and knots the individual threads of the two thread layers together.

• Vorwärtsbewegen (Vorschub) der Maschine auf dem Knüpfgestell zum Anfang (Rand) einer der Fadenschichten,
• Bewegen der zweiten Fadenschicht derart, dass die Anfänge (Ränder) der beiden Fadenschichten senkrecht übereinander liegen,
• Separieren des vordersten (am Rand befindlichen) Fadens der ersten Fadenschicht und Separieren des vordersten (am Rand befindlichen) Fadens der zweiten Fadenschicht,
• Zusammenführen der beiden separierten Fäden und Abschneiden derselben,
• Verknoten der beiden Fäden,
• Entfernen der verknoteten Fäden aus dem von der Knüpfmaschine beim Vorwärtsbewegen beanspruchten Raum.

The existing knotting devices are designed differently in detail, but essentially operate on the same basic principle. A knotting machine usually carries out the following method steps in order to connect a thread of a first thread layer to a thread of a second thread layer:

• Advancing (feed) the machine on the knitting rack to the beginning (edge) of one of the thread layers,
• Moving the second thread layer such that the beginnings (edges) of the two thread layers are perpendicular to each other,
• Separating the foremost (at the edge) thread of the first thread layer and separating the foremost one (at the edge) thread of the second thread layer,
• Merging the two separated threads and cutting them off,
• Knotting the two threads,
• Removing the knotted threads from the space occupied by the knotting machine as it moves forward.

These process steps are usually repeated in successive cycles to join all the filaments of the two filament layers.

In order to carry out the respective method steps, a number of different parts usually have to be moved by means of a drive, for example an electric motor or a hand crank. For this purpose, a main shaft is set in rotation with the drive and the rotation of this shaft - for example via gear and / or cams - transferred to the involved in the respective process steps mechanical actuators. The respective movements of all moving parts take place (temporally and spatially) according to a predetermined flow diagram as a function of the instantaneous angle of rotation of the main shaft.

This - out EP 0206196 A2 . DE 3543536 C1 respectively. DE 19707623 C1 known concept has several disadvantages. On the one hand, each cycle of the above-mentioned method steps must be completed completely, according to the respective coupling between the main shaft and the parts driven via the main shaft. This reduces the efficiency of the knotting device. For example, during one cycle, one of the process steps could not be performed correctly. It may happen, for example, that no thread is separated from the first and / or the second thread layer at the beginning of a cycle. Consequently, subsequently also no threads of the knotting machine are fed and connected to each other become. Nevertheless, the cycle must be completed, and then in a further cycle or in several other cycles, each of the proposed process steps must be repeated until the desired connection between the respective threads is established. Errors in the implementation of individual process steps thus lead to a drastic reduction in the operating speed of the knotting machine (measured as the number of connections made between threads per unit time). Another disadvantage is the fact that the mechanical settings of the machine usually have to be changed by manual intervention when threads with different properties are to be processed. Another disadvantage is the fact that the machine usually has to include a large number of movable parts in order to precisely control all movements (spatially and temporally). A number of relevant for the control of the motion sequences - for example, cams, gears and / or couplings between moving parts - require high precision and are therefore usually expensive.

The present invention has for its object to avoid the disadvantages mentioned and to provide an apparatus and a method which make it possible to produce connections between threads of a first thread layer and threads of a second thread layer with a better efficiency and the control of all movement sequences simplify.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a device having the features of claim 1 and a method having the features of claim 10.

The inventive device comprises a plurality of movable parts, wherein threads of a first and a second thread layer by moving the respective parts in such a way can be influenced, that between the respective threads a connection can be established.

According to the invention it is provided that the device comprises a plurality of drives for moving the movable parts, wherein a subset of the movable parts of one of the drives and at least one other subset of the movable parts of another of the drives is movable.

The different drives can be operated independently of each other.

The fact that a plurality of drives for moving the movable parts are available and that different subsets of the movable parts can each be driven by different drives, it can be achieved that the parts of different subsets are each independently movable. Based on this concept, the number of movable parts needed to realize the respective functions of the device can be kept small. Compared to conventional knotting machines, it is possible in particular to save on mechanical components which control the movements of other movable parts (for example cam disks). The function of such mechanical components can each be replaced by a drive in conjunction with a controller that controls the respective drive suitable. This replacement has several advantages. Since on the one hand the said mechanical components are usually expensive because of the high demands in terms of manufacturing tolerances and on the other hand relatively inexpensive drives can be usefully used, manufacturing costs can be saved by using a plurality of drives. Furthermore, it is possible with little effort to change the control of a single drive, for example by changing a control program or by activating a specific Control option, which could be selectable from several preset control options. This can be necessary or useful, for example, if yarns with different properties have to be processed, and the functioning of the device can be optimized by means of suitable control programs. The use of multiple drives therefore makes it possible, by influencing (changing, adapting) the controls of the respective drives, to coordinate or modify the motion sequences of different subsets of the movable parts with little effort, without exchanging or changing parts of the mechanism of the device. The control of the inventive device is thus simplified, more complex movements can be realized with relatively simple (for example, programming technology) means and optionally changed.

Accordingly, in one embodiment of the device according to the invention, provision is made for the parts of one of the subsets to be coupled to one drive and the parts of the respective other subset to the respective other drive in such a way that the parts of different subsets can each be moved independently of one another.

A further development of this embodiment comprises a control with which the respective drives can be controlled independently of one another.

The independent control of multiple drives offers several possibilities to control the movements of the device more flexible compared to a device in which all the movable parts are coupled to a single, driven by a single drive main shaft.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, for example, it is provided that a movement the parts of at least one of the subsets are repeatable independently of the parts of the respective other subsets. A repetition of the movements of individual parts allows, for example, an efficient handling of erroneously performed procedures and, if appropriate, an efficient correction of errors. In the event of a fault, it may be sufficient to repeat only movements of parts that were involved in a faulty process step, regardless of the state of the remaining movable parts. This measure allows more efficient troubleshooting and efficient and flexible process management, thus improving the operating speed of the device.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention it is provided that a movement of the parts of at least one of the subsets is reversible independently of the parts of the other subsets. This measure also allows more efficient troubleshooting and efficient and flexible process management, thus improving the operating speed of the device.

In the construction of the respective apparatus, it can be considered that a method for joining threads from a first thread layer with threads from a second thread layer by moving a plurality of movable parts can usually be regarded as a repeated sequence of a series of several method steps, wherein each of the method steps, a specific for the respective process step subset of the movable parts is moved.

According to the invention, it is therefore expedient to use at least two or more drives for moving the movable parts such that the specific for one of the method steps subset of the movable parts of at least one of the drives is moved and for a particular of the method steps specific subset of the movable parts of at least one other of the drives is moved. Within the scope of this concept, it is possible, for example, to use each of the drives for carrying out a plurality of method steps of the respective sequence, for example for carrying out a part of the respective sequence. However, it is also possible to assign each of the method steps one or more drives, which are provided exclusively for the implementation of the respective method step.

The division of the method into individual method steps, the choice of the number of drives and the respective assignment of drives and method steps can be made essentially arbitrary, depending on what is appropriate for the circumstances of the case.

In a variant of the invention, it can be provided, for example, that the sequence of the method steps at least the two method steps "separating a thread from the first thread layer and separating a thread from the second thread layer" and "establishing a connection between the separated from the first thread layer thread and at least two drives are available for performing the method, wherein at least one of the drives for performing the one process step ("separating the respective threads") and at least one other of the drives for performing the other Process step ("making a connection between the respective threads") is used.

To realize the above-mentioned sequence of method steps is a variant of the inventive device, in which a first subset of the movable Parts comprises movable means for separating a thread from the first thread layer and / or for separating a thread from the second thread layer and one of the drives for moving this subset is provided, and wherein a second subset of the movable part respectively movable means for establishing a connection between a thread separated from the first thread layer and a thread separated from the second thread layer and one of the drives for moving the movable means of this subset is provided. In this variant, it is therefore possible to carry out the method step "separating the respective threads" independently of the method step "establishing a connection between the respective threads". If, during operation of the device, the process step "separating" is carried out incorrectly (for example, with the result that at least one of the threads to be separated is not separated from the respective thread layer), then the method step "separating the respective threads" could first (as often as necessary) are repeated before the process step "connecting the respective threads" is performed. This obviously achieves an improvement in the working efficiency and the working speed of the device.

In a further development of the abovementioned variant, the threads are separated from the two thread layers in two process steps which can proceed independently of one another: in a method step "separating a thread from the first thread layer" and in a further method step "separating a thread the second thread layer ", wherein for each of these two process steps, a separate drive is provided. One of the drives is to drive movable means for separating a thread from the first thread layer, and another drive is provided for this purpose, movable means for separating a thread to drive the second thread layer. Accordingly, as in the aforementioned variant, a further drive can be provided for driving movable means for establishing a connection between a thread separated from the first thread layer and a thread separated from the second thread layer.

If, during operation of the device, the separation of the respective threads should be performed erroneously (for example, with the result that the thread to be separated from the first thread layer and / or the thread to be separated from the second thread layer was not separated), then the method steps " Separating a thread from the first thread layer "and / or" separating a thread from the second thread layer "individually or both (as often as necessary) are repeated before the step" connecting the respective threads "is performed. This obviously achieves an improvement in the working efficiency and the working speed of the device. Furthermore, it can be exploited in this variant that the separation of a thread from the first thread layer and the separation of a thread from the second thread layer are independently executable processes. If, during operation, only one of the threads to be separated is separated, but not the other of the threads to be separated, then it is sufficient to repeat only that "separating" step which was previously carried out without success. The one already separated thread can be kept in the meantime in a rest position. In this way, the separation of the threads can be carried out particularly gently, especially as unnecessary interactions between moving parts and threads are avoided. This is advantageous in the processing of thread layers of sensitive threads.

In a further development of the aforementioned embodiments It is provided that the respective sequence of the method steps may comprise further method steps, which may preferably be carried out independently of the remaining method steps.

1. a) Halten und/oder Klemmen der separierten Fäden,
2. b) Schneiden der separierten Fäden,
3. c) Transport der separierten Fäden an einen Ort, an dem eine Verbindung zwischen den jeweiligen separierten Fäden hergestellt wird,
4. d) Weitertransport der jeweils miteinander verbundenen Fäden.

The respective sequence of the method steps may, for example, additionally comprise at least one of the following method steps a) -d):

1. a) holding and / or clamping the separated threads,
2. b) cutting the separated threads,
3. c) transporting the separated threads to a location where a connection is made between the respective separated threads,
4. d) onward transport of the respective interconnected threads.

In order to carry out each of the additional method steps a) -d), one or more drives could each be provided, which are each involved exclusively in carrying out one of the method steps a) -d).

Other drives could be used to implement the following method steps: At least one of the drives can be designed to position the thread layers relative to one another; At least one further drive may be intended to position the movable parts relative to the respective thread layers and thus to produce an advance of the movable parts relative to the thread layers.

If a drive is provided for the implementation of the feed of the movable parts, which is provided exclusively for this purpose, then it is possible to perform the feed independently of the other process steps. This offers several advantages. The feed can, for example (in terms of travel and time or speed) in a simple manner (by a suitable control of the drive) are adjusted individually, for example, depending on the nature of the respective thread layers (eg thickness of the respective threads, distances of the respective threads, resistance of the Threads against wear and the like). Furthermore, the direction of the feed can be reversed, ie it is possible to move the movable parts towards the respective thread layers or away from the respective thread layer. In the event of a fault, the entirety of the movable parts could be moved away from the thread layers (reverse gear), regardless of the instantaneous position of the movable parts.

Fig. 1

eine erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung zum Verbinden von Fäden aus einer ersten Fadenschicht mit Fäden aus einer zweiten Fadenschicht, mit Mitteln zum Separieren eines Fadens der ersten Fadenschicht, mit Mitteln zum Separieren eines Fadens der zweizweiten Fadenschicht, mit Mitteln zum Verbinden der separierten Fäden und mit drei Antrieben zum Bewegen der jeweiligen Mittel zum Separieren bzw. Verbinden, betrachtet aus einer gegenüber den Fadenschichten in einem spitzen Winkel geneigten Blickrichtung, wobei die Mittel zum Separieren jeweils in einer Arbeitsposition gezeigt sind, die zu Beginn einer Separierbewegung eingenommen wird;

Fig. 2

ein Unterteil der Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1;

Fig. 3

ein Oberteil der Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1;

Fig. 4

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1, in einer Draufsicht;

Fig. 5

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1, aus einer Perspektive gemäss V-V in Fig. 4;

Fig. 6

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1, aus derselben Perspektive wie in Fig. 1, wobei die Separiermittel derart bewegt sind, dass jeweils ein Faden am Rand der ersten Fadenschicht und am Rand der zweiten Fadenschicht von den übrigen Fäden separiert ist;

Fig. 7

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 6, in einer Draufsicht;

Fig. 8

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 6, jedoch aus einer anderen Perspektive, wobei die Blickrichtung parallel zu den Fäden der Fadenschichten liegt, mit den drei Antrieben im Vordergrund;

Fig. 9

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1, wobei die separierten Fäden an einen Ort transportiert sind, an dem durch Bewegen der Mittel zum Verbinden eine Verbindung zwischen den jeweiligen separierten Fäden hergestellt werden kann;

Fig. 10

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 9, jedoch aus einer anderen Perspektive, wobei die Blickrichtung parallel zu den Fäden der Fadenschichten liegt;

Fig. 11

die Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 9, jedoch aus einer anderen Perspektive, wobei die Blickrichtung parallel zu den Fadenschichten und senkrecht zu den Fäden der Fadenschichten liegt (gemäss XI-XI in Fig. 10).

Further details of the invention and in particular exemplary embodiments of the device according to the invention and of the method according to the invention are explained below with reference to the attached drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

a device according to the invention for joining threads of a first thread layer with threads of a second thread layer, with means for separating a thread of the first thread layer, with means for separating a thread of the two-width thread layer, with means for connecting the separated threads and with three drives for Moving the respective means for separating, viewed from a viewing direction inclined at an acute angle with respect to the thread layers, the separating means being respectively shown in a working position which is assumed at the beginning of a separating movement;

Fig. 2

a lower part of the device according to FIG. 1;

Fig. 3

an upper part of the device according to FIG. 1;

Fig. 4

the apparatus of Figure 1, in a plan view.

Fig. 5

the device according to FIG. 1, from a perspective according to VV in FIG. 4;

Fig. 6

1, from the same perspective as in FIG. 1, wherein the separating means are moved such that in each case one thread is separated from the remaining threads at the edge of the first thread layer and at the edge of the second thread layer;

Fig. 7

the device according to FIG. 6, in a plan view;

Fig. 8

the device according to Figure 6, but from a different perspective, wherein the viewing direction is parallel to the threads of the thread layers, with the three drives in the foreground.

Fig. 9

the apparatus according to Figure 1, wherein the separated threads are transported to a location at which by moving the means for connecting a connection between the respective separated threads can be made;

Fig. 10

the device according to Figure 9, but from a different perspective, wherein the viewing direction is parallel to the threads of the thread layers.

Fig. 11

the device according to FIG. 9, but from a different perspective, wherein the viewing direction is parallel to the thread layers and perpendicular to the threads of the thread layers (according to XI-XI in Fig. 10).

FIGS. 1-11 show a device 1 according to the invention for joining threads of a first thread layer 5 with threads of a second thread layer 6. The device 1 is - in the sense of an example - designed as a knotting machine, i. The device 1 has the task of connecting threads of the thread layer 5 with threads of the thread layer 6 by forming nodes with each other.

FIGS. 1-11 show the device 1 from different perspectives and in different operating states.

As indicated in Fig. 1, the device 1 consists of a lower part 2, which carries the first thread layer 5 and the second thread layer 6, and an upper part 3. The upper part 3 has essentially the function, threads of the first and second thread layer to capture and connect by knots, and for this purpose comprises a plurality of movable parts, which - in motion - can act on threads of the first and the second thread layer such that the respective threads are connected by a node. The upper part 3 thus forms the knotting unit of the device 1.

The position of the upper part 3 can - as will be explained in detail in connection with FIGS. 2 and 3 - with respect to the thread layers 5 and 6 or with respect to the lower part 2 to allow processing of all threads of the thread layers 5 and 6.

In Fig. 1, the device 1 is shown simplified to highlight essential components of the lower part 2 and the upper part 3. FIG. 2 shows further details of the lower part 2, FIG. 3 shows (schematically) further details of the upper part 3.

As shown in FIG. 2, the lower part 2 comprises a support frame 4, over which all components of the device 1 are supported. On the support frame 4, a clamping frame 10 with two clamps 10.1 for the threads of the thread layer 5 and a clamping frame 11 with two clamps 11.1 attached to the threads of the thread layer 6.

The threads of the thread layer 5 are held with the clamps 10.1 to two spatially separated arms of the clamping frame 10. Accordingly, the threads of the thread layer 6 are held with the clamps 11.1 to two spatially separated arms of the clamping frame 11. The clamping frames 10 and 11 are dimensioned in such a way and the respective clamps 10.1 and 11.1 are so far apart that the upper part 3 can be guided in the area between the two clamps 10.1 or in the area between the two clamps 11.1 to the yarn layers 5 and 6 ( Fig. 1, 6 and 9).

The clamping frames 10 and 11 are arranged parallel to each other, so that the thread layers 5 and 6 (substantially) are aligned parallel to each other. It is further assumed that the threads of the thread layer 5 are each aligned parallel to each other within a plane. The threads of the thread layer 6 are assumed to be arranged parallel to one another and also parallel to the threads of the thread layer 5.

The clamping frame 10 is fixedly connected to the support frame 4. The clamping frame 11, however, mounted on (not shown in the figures) linear guides on the support frame 4, that the clamping frame 11 is movable parallel to the clamping frame 10, as indicated in Fig. 1 and 2 by a double arrow 12. In this way it is possible to position the threads of the thread layer 6 relative to the threads of the thread layer 5.

On the support frame 4, a rack 16 is further attached via a carrier 15. In the teeth of the rack 16, a driven on the upper part 3, drivable worm wheel 43.2 engage, which serves to transfer to the upper part 3 a thrust in the longitudinal direction of the rack 16 and thus to move the upper part 3 along the rack 16.

With the clamping frame 11 is a rack 20 via a carrier 20 rigidly connected. The rack 21 is aligned parallel to the rack 16.

In the teeth of the rack 21, a driven on the upper part 3, drivable worm wheel 44.2 engage, which serves to transfer to the clamping frame 11 a thrust in the longitudinal direction of the rack 21 and thus the clamping frame 11 relative to the clamping frame 10 and the upper part 3 move (in a linear motion).

• Ein Antrieb 40, auf dessen Antriebswelle ein Separiermittel 35 zum Separieren eines Fadens der ersten Fadenschicht 5 sitzt, wobei der Antrieb 40 derart ausgebildet ist, dass das Separiermittel 35 sowohl um eine (Dreh-) Achse 40.1 des Antriebs 40 drehbar und längs der Achse 40.1 (vorwärts und rückwärts) bewegbar ist;
• ein Antrieb 41, auf dessen Antriebswelle ein Separiermittel 36 zum Separieren eines Fadens der zweiten Fadenschicht 6 sitzt, wobei der Antrieb 41 derart ausgebildet ist, dass das Separiermittel 36 sowohl um eine (Dreh-) Achse 41.1 des Antriebs 41 drehbar und längs der Achse 41.1 (vorwärts und rückwärts) bewegbar ist;
• ein Antrieb 42, auf dessen Antriebswelle ein Verbindungsmittel 37 zur Herstellung einer Verbindung zwischen einem aus der ersten Fadenschicht 5 separierten Faden und einem aus der zweiten Fadenschicht 6 separierten Faden sitzt, wobei der Antrieb 42 derart ausgebildet ist, dass das Verbindungsmittel 37 um eine (Dreh-) Achse 42.1 des Antriebs 42 drehbar ist;
• ein Antrieb 43, auf dessen Antriebswelle das Schneckenrad 43.2 sitzt, wobei der Antrieb 43 derart ausgebildet ist, dass das Schneckenrad 43.2 um eine (Dreh-) Achse 43.1 des Antriebs 43 drehbar ist;
• ein Antrieb 44, auf dessen Antriebswelle das Schneckenrad 44.2 sitzt, wobei der Antrieb 44 derart ausgebildet ist, dass das Schneckenrad 44.2 um eine (Dreh-) Achse 44.1 des Antriebs 44 drehbar ist;
• eine Steuerung 60, an welche die Antriebe 40, 41, 42, 43 und 44 über Verbindungen 60.0, 60.1, 60.2, 60.3 und 60.4 angeschlossen sind, um eine Steuerung der genannten Antriebe zu ermöglichen.

According to FIGS. 1 and 3, the upper part 3 comprises a base frame 30 on which the following components are arranged:

• A drive 40, on whose drive shaft a separating means 35 for separating a thread of the first thread layer 5 sits, wherein the drive 40 is formed such that the separating means 35 both about a (rotary) axis 40.1 of the drive 40 rotatable and along the axis 40.1 (forward and backward) is movable;
• a drive 41, on whose drive shaft a separating means 36 for separating a thread of the second thread layer 6 is seated, wherein the drive 41 is designed such that the separating means 36 both about a (rotary) axis 41.1 of the drive 41 rotatable and along the axis 41.1 (forward and backward) is movable;
• a drive 42, on the drive shaft of a connecting means 37 for establishing a connection between a separated from the first thread layer 5 thread and a separated from the second thread layer 6 thread sits, wherein the drive 42 is formed such that the connecting means 37 to a (rotation -) axis 42.1 of the drive 42 is rotatable;
• a drive 43, on whose drive shaft the worm wheel 43.2 sits, wherein the drive 43 is designed such that the worm wheel 43.2 is rotatable about a (rotational) axis 43.1 of the drive 43;
• a drive 44, on whose drive shaft the worm gear 44.2 sits, the drive 44 being designed such that the worm wheel 44.2 is rotatable about a (rotational) axis 44.1 of the drive 44;
• a controller 60 to which the actuators 40, 41, 42, 43 and 44 are connected via connections 60.0, 60.1, 60.2, 60.3 and 60.4 to allow control of said drives.

The drives 40, 41, 42, 43 and 44 could each be controlled independently of one another by the controller 60 by means of appropriate control signals via the respective connections 60.0, 60.1, 60.2, 60.3 and 60.4.

As shown in FIG. 3, the separating means 35 and 36 in the present case are designed as (conventional) Abstechnadeln and the connecting means 37 as (conventional, hook-shaped) knotting mandrel.

• das Schneckenrad 43.2 in die Zähne der Zahnstange 16 greift (Fig. 2),
• das Schneckenrad 44.2 in die Zähne der Zahnstange 21 greift (Fig. 2),
• die Achse 40.1 parallel zur Fadenschicht 5 und senkrecht zu den Fäden der Fadenschicht 5 gerichtet ist und etwa auf derselben Höhe verläuft wie die Fadenschicht 5 (Fig. 5), derart, dass ein Faden am Rand der Fadenschicht 5 (Faden 5.1 in Fig. 5) mit Hilfe des Separiermittels 35 erfassbar ist (bei einer entsprechenden Winkelstellung der Antriebswelle des Antriebs 40 und bei einer entsprechenden Positionierung des Oberteils 3 bezüglich der Fadenschicht 5),
• die Achse 41.1 parallel zur Fadenschicht 6 und senkrecht zu den Fäden der Fadenschicht 6 gerichtet ist und etwa auf derselben Höhe verläuft wie die Fadenschicht 6 (Fig. 5), derart, dass ein Faden am Rand der Fadenschicht 6 (Faden 6.1 in Fig. 5) mit Hilfe des Separiermittels 36 erfassbar ist (bei einer entsprechenden Winkelstellung der Antriebswelle des Antriebs 41 und bei einer entsprechenden Positionierung des Oberteils 3 bezüglich der Fadenschicht 6),
• die Achse 42.1 parallel zu den Fadenschichten 5 und 6 und senkrecht zu den Fäden der Fadenschichten 5 und 6 gerichtet ist und auf einer Höhe unterhalb der Fadenschicht 5 und oberhalb der Fadenschicht 6 verläuft (Fig. 5), derart, dass das Verbindungsmittel 37 in einem Bereich zwischen den Separiermitteln 35 und 36 angeordnet ist (Fig. 5 und 11).

On the lower part 2 (not shown in the figures) linear guides for the upper part 3 are mounted, which guide the upper part 3 such that it is parallel to the rack 16th and thus is movable parallel to the thread layers 5 and 6. The axles 40.1, 41.1, 42.1, 43.1 and 44.1 or the drives 40, 41, 42, 43 and 44 are arranged such that (when the upper part 3 on the lower part 2 - as in Fig. 1 and 2 indicated - is placed )

• the worm wheel 43.2 engages in the teeth of the rack 16 (FIG. 2),
• the worm wheel 44.2 engages in the teeth of the toothed rack 21 (FIG. 2),
• the axis 40.1 is directed parallel to the thread layer 5 and perpendicular to the threads of the thread layer 5 and approximately at the same height as the thread layer 5 (Fig. 5), such that a thread at the edge of the thread layer 5 (thread 5.1 in Fig. 5th ) is detectable with the aid of the separating means 35 (with a corresponding angular position of the drive shaft of the drive 40 and with a corresponding positioning of the upper part 3 with respect to the thread layer 5),
• the axis 41.1 is directed parallel to the thread layer 6 and perpendicular to the threads of the thread layer 6 and runs approximately at the same height as the thread layer 6 (FIG. 5), such that a thread at the edge of the thread layer 6 (thread 6.1 in FIG ) can be detected with the aid of the separating means 36 (with a corresponding angular position of the drive shaft of the drive 41 and with a corresponding positioning of the upper part 3 with respect to the thread layer 6),
• the axis 42.1 is directed parallel to the thread layers 5 and 6 and perpendicular to the threads of the thread layers 5 and 6 and at a height below the thread layer 5 and above the thread layer 6 (FIG. 5), such that the connecting means 37 is arranged in a region between the separating means 35 and 36 (FIGS. 5 and 11).

If the worm 43.2 is rotated about the axis 43.1 by means of the drive 43, this causes a linear movement of the upper part 3 in the longitudinal direction of the rack 16. Depending on the respective direction of rotation of the worm wheel 43.1 can thus (under corresponding control Control signals via the connection 60.3) a feed of the upper part 3 to the thread layer 5 towards or away from the thread layer 5 are generated. In this way, the upper part 3 can be positioned relative to the thread layers 5 and 6.

If the worm 44.2 is rotated by means of the drive 44 about the axis 44.1, this causes a linear movement of the rack 21 and the clamping frame 11 relative to the upper part 3 in the longitudinal direction of the rack 21. Depending on the respective direction of rotation of the worm wheel 44.1 can thus under the control of the control 60 (by means of appropriate control signals via the connection 60.4) an advance of the clamping frame 11 to the upper part 3 towards or away from the upper part 3 are generated. In this way, the arrangement of the thread layer 6 can be changed relative to the thread layer 5.

By a suitable control of the drives 43 and 44, the distance between the thread layer 5 and the upper part 3 and the distance between the thread layer 6 and the upper part 3 can thus be varied independently of each other or respectively brought to a predetermined value.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 3-11, a method according to the invention for joining threads from FIG Thread layer 5 with threads from the thread layer 6 explained. For connecting one of the threads of the thread layer 5 and one of the threads of the second thread layer 6, a sequence of a plurality of (in the present case, eleven different) method steps are respectively performed.

The method steps of the respective sequence have the goal to separate a thread 5.1 at the edge of the thread layer 5 and a thread 6.1 at the edge of the thread layer 6 and to connect by a node. By cyclic repetition of the same sequence of method steps, all threads of the thread layers 5 and 6 can therefore be connected to each other.

In a first method step of the sequence, the upper part 3 is first brought into a predetermined position relative to the thread 5.1 of the thread layer 5. The upper part 3 is positioned such that the thread 5.1 is within the range of the separating means 35 and could be separated in one of the subsequent method steps with the aid of the separating means 35 by driving the drive 40. The drive 43 is controlled in accordance with the control 60 and the worm 43.2 rotated by a corresponding angle of rotation, wherein the current position of the upper part 3 relative to the yarn layer 5 with a (not shown in the figures) sensor is monitored.

In a second method step of the sequence is controlled by means of a (not shown in the figures) sensor, whether the thread has 6.1 within given tolerances the same distance from the upper part 3 as the thread 5.1. If not, then the position of the thread layer 6 relative to the thread layer 5 is corrected accordingly. For this purpose, the drive 44 is controlled by the controller 60 and the worm wheel 44.2 is rotated by a corresponding angle of rotation. In this way, it is ensured that the thread 6.1 is within the range of the separating means 36 and could be separated in one of the subsequent method steps with the aid of the separating means 36 by driving the drive 41.

In a third method step of the sequence, the separating means 35 is brought into a working position with respect to the thread 5.1, ie in a position above the thread layer 5, from which the separating means 35 by a rotation about the axis 40.1 in a space between the thread 5.1 and nearest (adjacent) thread of the thread layer 5 can be introduced. The drive 40 is controlled in accordance with the control 60 and the separating means 35 is moved along the axis 40.1 and optionally rotated about the axis 40.1 until the separating means 35 has reached the intended working position. The illustrations in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5 correspond to this situation.

Accordingly, in a fourth step of the sequence, the separating means 36 is brought into a working position with respect to the thread 6.1, that is in a position below the thread layer 6, from which the separating means 36 by a rotation about the axis 41.1 in a space between the thread 6.1 and the nearest (adjacent) thread of the thread layer 6 can be introduced. The drive 41 is controlled by the controller 60 accordingly and the separating means 36 is moved along the axis 41.1 and optionally rotated about the axis 41.1 until the separating means 36 has reached the intended working position. The illustrations in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5 correspond to this situation.

In a fifth method step of the sequence, as shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, the separating means 35 is caused to carry out a "separating movement" in order to separate the thread 5.1 from the thread layer 5: the control 60 causes the drive 40 , first the separating means 35 to rotate about a predetermined angle about the axis 40.1, such that the separating means 35 at least partially in the space between the thread 5.1 and the nearest (adjacent) thread of the thread layer 5 can be introduced, and then causes the controller 60, the drive 40, separating means 35 in the direction of arrow 40 '(FIGS. 7 and 8) from the remaining threads of thread layer 5 by a predetermined distance. The separating means 35 is now in a test position. If the separating means 35 has detected and carried along the thread 5.1 during the separation movement, then the thread 5.1 continues to be in contact with the separating means 35 when the separating means 35 is in the checking position. In this case, the thread 5.1 would have been successfully separated from the thread layer 5. In the situation illustrated in FIGS. 6-8, the thread 5.1 has been successfully separated.

In a sixth method step of the sequence (with the aid of a sensor, which is not shown in the figures) is checked by the controller 60, whether exactly a thread 5.1 in the fifth step - as intended - was separated. If this is not the case - that is, if no thread or more than one thread were separated -, the controller 60 gives the drive 40, the command, the separating means 35 from the test position shown in FIG 6-8 again in the working position shown in FIG , 4 and 5 to move. Subsequently, the fifth method step and the sixth method step are repeated until the thread 5.1 has been successfully separated in the fifth method step and moved to the test position (FIGS. 6-8).

With regard to the thread 6.1, the procedure is analogous to the fifth and sixth method step.

In a seventh process step of the sequence - as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 - the separating means 36 causes the drive 41 to first rotate the separating means 36 by a predetermined angle about the axis 41.1, such that the separating means 36 at least partially in the space between the thread 6.1 and the nearest (adjacent) thread of the thread layer 6 can be introduced, and then causes the controller 60, the drive 41, the separating means 36 in the direction of the arrow 41 '(Fig. 8) of the other threads of Thread layer 6 to move away by a predetermined distance. The separating means 36 is now in a test position. If the separating means 36 has detected and carried along the thread 6.1 when carrying out the separating movement, then the thread 6.1 continues to be in contact with the separating means 36 when the separating means 36 is in the checking position. In this case, the thread 6.1 would have been successfully separated from the thread layer 65. In the situation illustrated in FIGS. 6-8, the thread 5.1 has been successfully separated.

In an eighth method step of the sequence (using a sensor, which is not shown in the figures) is checked by the controller 60, whether the thread 6.1 in the seventh process step - as intended - was separated. If this is not the case, the controller 60 commands the drive 41 to move the separating means 36 from the test position according to FIGS. 6-8 back into the working position according to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5. Subsequently, the seventh process step and the eighth process step are repeated until the thread 6.1 has been successfully separated in the seventh process step and moved to the test position (FIGS. 6-8).

Since the actuators 40 and 41 can be operated and controlled independently of each other, the fifth and seventh process steps of the sequence can be performed at arbitrary times (independently of each other) are executed, for example, simultaneously or sequentially. Accordingly, the fifth or the sixth method step of the sequence can each be repeated (independently of one another) as often as desired, until each of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 has been separated.

The process steps of the respective sequence can be controlled such that the total duration of the sequence corresponds to a predetermined cycle time and the total duration of the respective sequence is not extended by repeating the fifth and sixth method steps or by repeating the seventh and eighth method steps (provided the total number of the respective Rewards does not exceed a given upper limit).

After separation of the threads 5.1 and 6.1, these threads are connected together. This process is shown in Figs. 9-11.

In a ninth method step of the sequence, the spatial arrangement of the separated threads 5.1 and 6.1 is changed such that the threads 5.1 and 6.1 come into contact with the connecting means 37. For this purpose, the threads 5.1 and 6.1 with the aid of the separating means 35 and 36 by a control of the drives 40 and 41 further in the direction of the arrows 40 'and 41' and thus in the direction of the connecting means 37 moves. Subsequently, a clamping device 50 arranged next to the connecting means 37 and controlled by the control 60 is closed by two movable arms 50.1 (by moving the arms 50.1), whereby the threads 5.1 and 6.1 are brought together between the arms 50.1 and - as in FIGS 11 and 11 - behind the hook-shaped connecting means 37 advised (Fig. 9-11 show the terminal 50 in the closed state). Subsequently, the separated thread 5.1 in a section between the separating means 35 and the clamp 10.1 on the clamping frame 10 intersected. For this purpose, a device 55 (shown symbolically in FIGS. 10 and 11 by a pair of scissors) controlled by the control 60 is provided for cutting. Accordingly, the separated thread 6.1 is cut in a section between the separating means 36 and the clamp 11.1 on the clamping frame 11. For this purpose, a device 56 (shown symbolically in FIGS. 10 and 11 by a pair of scissors) controlled by the control 60 is provided for cutting.

In a tenth step of the sequence, a connection is made between the threads 5.1 and 6.1 in the region of the cut ends of these threads. For this purpose, the drive 42 is driven by the controller 60 and thereby the connecting means 37 is set in a rotation about the axis 42.1. The cut ends of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 are thereby detected by the hook-shaped end of the connecting means 37 and jointly caused to form a loop, the ends of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 (with conventional, not shown in FIGS. 1-11 guides) guided in such a way be made that from the loop, a knot, which holds the cut ends of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 together.

In an eleventh method step of the sequence, the interconnected ends of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 are transported further to a location at which the threads 5.1 and 6.1 do not hinder the upper part 3 from advancing in the direction of the thread layers 5 and 6. For further transport of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 conventional means of transport are provided, which are not shown in Figs. 1-11.

Subsequently, the above sequence of method steps can be applied to all other threads of the thread layers 5 and 6 in succession.

In the context of the present invention, several alternatives are provided for actuating the clamping device 50, the cutting device 55, the cutting device 56 and the transport means provided for the further transport of the threads 5.1 and 6.1 in the eleventh method step. In one variant, these devices or the means of transport can each be equipped with its own drive, which ensures the movement of each moving parts. The said devices and means of transport could all be coupled to a common drive. For example, the drive 42 could serve as this common drive.

The device 1 is designed as a knotting machine. The inventive concept can be applied analogously to other methods in which each moving parts act on the threads of thread layers to be joined, for example, wrapping, gluing, splicing, welding o. Ä. In these applications, only the connecting means 37 of the device 1 must be replaced by corresponding other means.

Claims (17)

Device (1) for connecting threads (5.1) from a first thread layer (5) with threads (6.1) from a second thread layer (6), which device (1)
a plurality of movable parts (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) and
a drive (40) for moving the movable parts,
wherein threads (5.1, 6.1) from the first and second thread layers can be influenced by moving the respective parts (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) in such a way that between the respective threads (5.1, 6.1) a connection can be made,
characterized in that
the apparatus comprises a plurality of drives (40, 41, 42, 43, 44) for moving the movable parts, a subset (35) of the movable parts of one of the drives (40) and at least one other subset (36, 37, 43.2, 44.2) of the movable parts of another of the drives (41, 42, 43, 44) is movable. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the parts (35) of one of the subsets are thus coupled to the one drive (40) and the parts (36, 37, 43.2, 44.2) of the respective other subset are coupled to the respective other drive (41, 42, 43, 44), that the parts of different subsets (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2) are each independently movable. Device according to one of claims 1 - 2, wherein
the device comprises a controller (60) with which the respective drives (40, 41, 42, 43, 44) are independently controllable. Device according to one of claims 1-3, wherein
a movement of the parts (35, 36) of at least one of the subsets is repeatable independently of the parts (37, 43.2, 44.2) of the respective other subsets. Device according to one of claims 1 - 4, wherein
a movement of the parts (43.2, 44.2) of at least one of the subsets is independent of the parts (35, 36, 37) of the other subsets is reversible. Device according to one of claims 1-5, wherein
one of the subsets movable means (35, 36) for separating a thread (5.1) from the first thread layer (5) and / or for separating a thread (6.1) from the second thread layer (6) comprises and
one of the drives for moving the movable means of this subset is provided. Device according to one of claims 1-5, wherein
one of the subsets movable means (35) for separating a thread (5.1) from the first thread layer (5) and another of the subsets movable means (36) for separating a thread (6.1) from the second thread layer (6) and
one of the drives (40) for moving the movable means (35) of one of these subsets and another of the drives (41) for moving the movable means (36) of the other of these subsets. Device according to one of claims 1-7, wherein
one of the subsets movable means (37) for establishing a connection between a separated from the first thread layer (5) thread (5.1) and one of the second thread layer (6) separated thread (6.1) and
one of the drives (42) is provided for moving the movable means (37) of this subset. Device according to one of claims 1 - 8, wherein at least one of the drives (44) is intended to position the thread layers (5, 6) relative to each other, and / or at least one of the drives (43) is intended, the movable parts (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) relative to the respective thread layers (5, 6) to position. Method for connecting threads (5.1) from a first thread layer (5) with threads (6.1) from a second thread layer (6) by moving a plurality of movable parts (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) .
wherein for connecting one of the threads of the first thread layer and one of the threads of the second thread layer in each case a sequence of a plurality of method steps is performed, and
wherein in each of the method steps a specific for the respective process step subset of the movable parts (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) is moved and
for moving the movable parts a drive (40) is used,
characterized in that
at least two drives (40, 41, 42, 43, 44) are used for moving the movable parts, wherein
the subset of the movable parts (35) specific to one of the method steps is moved by at least one of the drives (40), and
the subset of the movable parts (36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) specific to another of the method steps is moved by at least one other of the drives (41, 42, 43, 44). The method of claim 10, wherein the steps of the respective sequence are controlled independently of each other and run independently. Method according to one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the drives (40, 41) are controlled in such a way that at least one of the method steps is repeated at least once in the course of the respective sequence. The method of claim 12, wherein the respective sequence runs within a predetermined cycle time, wherein the cycle time is not extended by the repetition of the at least one method step. Method according to one of claims 10 - 13, wherein the respective sequence comprises the following method steps a) and b): a) separating a thread (5.1) from the first thread layer (5) and separating a thread (6.1) from the second thread layer (6), b) establishing a connection between the first thread layer (5) separated thread (5.1) and the the second thread layer (6) separated thread (6.1), and at least one of the drives (40, 41) for carrying out the method step a) and at least one other of the drives (42) for carrying out the method step b) is used. Method according to one of claims 10 - 13, wherein the respective sequence comprises the following method steps a), b) and c): a) separating a thread (5.1) from the first thread layer (5), b) separating a thread (6.1) from the second thread layer (6), c) establishing a connection between the thread (5.1) separated from the first thread layer (5) and the thread (6.1) separated from the second thread layer (6),
and wherein at least three drives (40, 41, 42) are used for carrying out the method steps a), b) and c) and in each of the method steps a different one of the drives is used in each case. Method according to one of claims 14 or 15, wherein the sequence additionally comprises at least one of the following method steps a) - d): a) holding and / or clamping the separated threads (5.1, 6.1), b) cutting the separated threads (5.1, 6.1), c) transporting the separated threads (5.1, 6.1) to a place where a connection between the respective separated threads is made, d) onward transport of the respective connected threads (5.1, 6.1), and at least one further drive is used to perform each of the additional process steps. The method of any of claims 10-16, wherein
with at least one further drive (43, 44) an advance of the movable parts (35, 36, 37, 43.2, 44.2, 50, 55, 56) to the respective thread layers (5, 6) towards or away from the respective thread layers is generated ,

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