EP3862476B1 - Needle machine - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a needling machine for needling a fleece web, the needling machine comprising an adjustment device for adjusting the angular position of two main shafts of the needling machine relative to one another.

Needle looms are well known to those skilled in the art and can be found, for example, in Lünenschloß and Albrecht: "Vliesstoffe", Georg Thieme Verlag, Stuttgart 1982, pages 122 to 129 described.

In needling machines, a nonwoven is usually fed in at the inlet of the needling machine and conveyed in a conveying direction of the nonwoven web to a needling zone. In the area of the needle zone, there is at least one needle bar with a needle board attached to it, which is equipped with needles for strengthening the fleece. The needles compress the nonwoven by being pierced into the nonwoven at high frequency in one direction and pulled out of it again. The resulting product is a bonded fleece. The most varied forms of needling machines are known to those skilled in the art, including double-needle machines in which two needle bars are used for needling from above and below, or needling machines in which the needle bar is moved with the non-woven web in the conveying direction of the non-woven web during the bonding process.

In order to pierce the needles arranged on a needle bar into the nonwoven web and to withdraw them again, needling machines include a drive device which causes the needle bar to lift in the direction of the puncture. Such a drive device comprises, for example, two main shafts, on each of which a main connecting rod is mounted eccentrically, so that a rotational movement of the main shaft is converted into a lifting movement of the needle bar in the direction of piercing by means of the respective main connecting rod. The main shafts can be coupled by a gear arrangement and preferably rotate in opposite directions of rotation. As a result, forces transverse to the puncture direction, which are caused by the eccentric movement of the main connecting rod, can be neutralized. Due to the coupling of the two main shafts by means of a gear arrangement, it is usually sufficient to drive one of the main shafts in rotation by means of a drive.

Needling machines, in which the needle bar is to be moved during the bonding process in the conveying direction of the nonwoven web, also generally include an auxiliary drive or at least one horizontal guide. By superimposing the lifting movement of the needle bar in the puncture direction, which is oriented essentially vertically, and the lifting movement of the needle bar in the conveying direction of the nonwoven web, which is oriented essentially horizontally, the needle bar is moved essentially on an elliptical path. Such needle machines are, for example, from EP 0 982 102 A known. It is desirable to be able to adapt the stroke of the needle bar in the conveying direction of the nonwoven web to the requirements present in the individual case.

One possibility for adjustment consists in adjusting the phase position of the two main waves. Depending on the phasing of the main shafts to one another, the needle beam produces an oscillating movement similar to an ellipse. Examples of needling machines with a possibility of phase adjustment of the main shafts to one another are, for example, in DE 10 2005 012 265 A1 , EP 3 412 819 A1 or EP 1 736 587 A1 disclosed. According to EP 1 736 587 A1 For example, in a first embodiment, a worm gear can be used to effect the phasing of the main shafts. In a second embodiment, one of the two main shafts is separated from the drive motor by means of a clutch, so that the phase position of the other main shaft can be adjusted by the drive motor.

However, previous solutions for phase adjustment of the main shafts relative to one another generally have a complex structure, take up a relatively large amount of space, sometimes cause additional losses or can only be adjusted in a complex manner.

The present invention is therefore based on the object of providing a needling machine for needling a fleece web in which the phase position of the main shafts can be adjusted in a simple manner and can be integrated into the needling machine in a space-saving manner without great effort.

This object is solved by the features of claim 1. Advantageous configurations are the subject matter of the dependent subclaims.

According to the invention, a needling machine for needling a nonwoven web comprises a needle bar arrangement which comprises at least one needle bar, a first main shaft and a second main shaft. A first main connecting rod is mounted eccentrically on the first main shaft and connects the first main shaft in an articulated manner to the needle beam arrangement. The first main shaft has a drive-side first shaft section and a connecting rod-side second shaft section separate from the first shaft section, the first and second shaft sections being arranged coaxially and rotatable relative to one another. A second main connecting rod is mounted eccentrically on the second main shaft and connects the second main shaft in an articulated manner to the needle beam arrangement. Furthermore, the needling machine includes a drive for rotationally driving one of the first and second main shafts and an adjustment device for adjusting the angular position of the first and second main shafts relative to one another. The adjusting device connects the first and the second shaft section of the first main shaft to one another and is set up to transmit a rotational movement from the first to the second shaft section. In addition, the adjusting device can be actuated in order to bring about a relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section.

In this way, a needling machine is provided in which the phase angle or the angular position of the first and second main shafts relative to one another can be adjusted in a simple and space-saving manner. The adjusting device provided for this purpose can be provided independently of the drive and a torque transmission (e.g. in the form of a gear arrangement) between the first and the second main shaft and is therefore of particularly simple construction and can be operated reliably. For example, the second shaft section can be rotated by the adjusting device with the first shaft section stationary and the second main shaft stationary, so that the angular position of the second shaft section and thus the first main shaft changes relative to the angular position of the second main shaft. It is also conceivable to rotate the first shaft section relative to the second shaft section and to transmit this rotation to the second main shaft, for example by means of a gear arrangement between the first and the second main shaft.

One main shaft each from the first and second main shaft and the associated main connecting rod form a crank mechanism for the needle beam arrangement. Both the first and second main connecting rods are pivotally connected to the needle beam assembly. The needle bar arrangement includes one or more needle bars. Each needle bar includes a multiplicity of needles for needling the nonwoven web. The needles are preferably aligned essentially parallel to a puncture direction and are attached to a side of the needle bar that faces the nonwoven web to be needled.

The first and second main connecting rods are mounted in such a way that they convert a rotational movement of the first or second main shaft into a lifting movement of the at least one needle bar in the direction of piercing, as a result of which the needles are pierced into the nonwoven web and pulled out of it.

The first and the second main connecting rod are each rotatably mounted on the respective main shaft about a connecting axis. The connecting axis is arranged parallel and spaced apart from an axis of rotation of the respective main shaft. This storage is comparable to a crankshaft. The current position of the connection axis relative to the axis of rotation of the respective main shaft corresponds to the angular position or angular position of the respective main shaft. The angular position is usually given in relation to a top or bottom dead center of the corresponding connecting rod. At bottom dead center, the movement of a connecting rod reverses from a downward movement (in the direction of the puncture) to an upward movement (opposite to the direction of the puncture). At top dead center, the movement of a connecting rod reverses from upwards to downwards.

If the two main shafts are in the same angular position and are rotated at the same rotational speed, preferably in opposite directions of rotation, the movement of the first and the second main connecting rod takes place in phase. The first and the second main connecting rod pass through their respective top dead center and their respective bottom dead center at the same time. Due to the articulated connection to the needle bar arrangement, the latter is thereby moved up and down in the puncture direction, with the needle bar arrangement retaining its essentially horizontal orientation.

If the angular position or angular location of the first and the second main shaft is adjusted relative to one another, the first and the second main connecting rod are at different distances relative to their respective dead centers. Their movement is then no longer in phase. The first and the second main connecting rod pass through their respective bottom and top dead center with a time offset. This results in a lifting movement of the needle bar arrangement in the puncture direction when the main shafts rotate. However, the needle bar arrangement is thereby tilted with respect to the horizontal. This tilting movement can be designed in such a way that, after penetrating the nonwoven web, the needles are also moved in the conveying direction of the nonwoven web. As a result, distortion of the nonwoven web caused by the needles and the load acting on the needles can be reduced. A maximum tilting movement occurs when one of the two main shafts is at top dead center and the other of the two main shafts is at bottom dead center at this time.

Since the first shaft section and the second shaft section of the first main shaft are designed separately from one another, they are two separate shafts which are arranged coaxially to one another and are connected to one another by additional means in such a way that during operation of the needle machine a torque is transmitted from the first shaft section to the second shaft section is transmitted and together they form the first main shaft.

The "drive side" first shaft section is arranged closer to the drive than the second shaft section in the axial direction of the first main shaft. The rotary movement of the first main shaft is introduced into the first shaft section. For this purpose, the first shaft section is preferably connected directly to the drive and/or to the second main shaft for transmitting a torque to the first shaft section, e.g. by means of a gear arrangement.

The second shaft section "on the connecting rod side" is arranged closer to the first main connecting rod in the axial direction than the first shaft section. The first main connecting rod is preferably rotatably mounted on the second shaft section or on a further shaft section fixed to it. Relative rotation of the second shaft section is transmitted to the first main connecting rod to change its position relative to the second main connecting rod.

The first and second shaft sections are connected to one another by the adjusting device, preferably connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner. For this purpose, the adjusting device is designed in such a way that, during operation of the needle machine and without actuation of the adjusting device, it generates a torque or a rotational movement from the first to the second Shaft section transmits. A relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section or a conversion of the torque or the speed preferably does not take place if the adjusting device is not actuated.

In addition, the adjusting device can be actuated in such a way that it causes a relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section. The fact that the adjustment device can be actuated means that components of the adjustment device can be moved relative to one another in response to an externally applied force that is independent of the rotational movement of the first main shaft. By actuating the adjustment device, the relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section is initiated. The adjusting device can preferably be actuated by an adjusting movement or adjusting force exerted on the adjusting device from the outside.

The adjusting device can preferably be adjusted between a number of states by actuation, with each state corresponding to a defined angular position of the second and/or first shaft section or the difference between two states corresponding to a defined change in the angular position. Preferably, the adjusting device is continuously adjustable, so the states of the adjusting device merge into one another in a continuously variable manner.

If the angular position of the first and second main shafts is set relative to one another, there is preferably no further relative rotation between the first and second shaft sections during operation of the needling machine. Relative rotation between the first and second shaft sections is effected only to adjust the angular position of the first and second main shafts.

The adjustment device is preferably actuated in a targeted manner by the user, for example by means of a control device.

In a preferred embodiment, the needling machine also includes a gear arrangement for transmitting a rotary movement or a torque between the first shaft section of the first main shaft and the second main shaft. The first shaft section of the first main shaft and the second main shaft form output shafts of the transmission arrangement. Through the gear arrangement, a rotary movement or a Torque transmitted between the first and second main shafts, so that it is sufficient to provide only one drive and to drive only one of the first and second main shafts. The drive then drives (directly or indirectly) the second main shaft or the first shaft section of the first main shaft.

In order to be able to bring about a phase adjustment between the main shafts, the adjusting device is formed on an output side of the gear arrangement, while the drive is preferably provided on an input side of the gear arrangement. The transmission arrangement may have an input shaft connected to the drive and corresponding to the second main shaft or the first shaft section of the first main shaft.

In a preferred embodiment, the transmission arrangement can be designed in such a way that it causes a reversal of the direction of rotation between the first main shaft and the second main shaft, so that the first and the second main shaft rotate in opposite directions. As a result, transverse forces are neutralized, at least when the first and second main shafts are operated in phase, which arise due to the eccentric mounting of the main connecting rods on the respective main shaft as it rotates around the respective main shaft. However, the first and the second main shaft can also rotate in the same direction. The gear arrangement can also provide a speed ratio between the first and second main shafts, if desired.

In order to enable a simple and inexpensive structure, the first and second shaft sections are fixed in the axial direction. However, the first and/or the second shaft section can also be movably mounted in the axial direction. However, displacement of the first main connecting rod connected to the second shaft section and of transmission components of the transmission arrangement connected to the first shaft section in an axial direction of the respective shaft section should be avoided.

The adjusting device is at least partially axially displaceable relative to the first and/or second shaft section. This means that at least some of the components of the adjusting device can be displaced in an axial direction of the first main shaft. As a result, a translational adjustment movement can be introduced into the adjustment device without the first and second shaft sections being displaced in the axial direction. A translational adjustment movement is easy and precise to generate and control and transfer. In addition, a translatory actuating movement can be initiated particularly easily by an actuating drive, in particular a linear drive.

The components of the adjusting device are preferably mounted in a fixed position in the axial direction during operation of the needle machine and can only be moved in the axial direction by actuating the actuating drive or the adjusting device.

Furthermore, the adjustment device is designed in such a way that a translational adjustment movement of components of the adjustment device brings about the relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section. Various mechanisms for converting such an actuating movement into a rotary movement are known to the person skilled in the art and can be used accordingly. The translational adjustment movement preferably takes place in the axial direction of the first main shaft.

In a preferred embodiment, the adjusting device comprises a first guide element with a spiral guide and a first engagement element, which engages in the spiral guide of the first guide element and can be displaced along the spiral guide. One of the first guide member and the first engaging member is fixedly connected to one of the first and second shaft portions or formed integrally therewith. The other of the first guide member and the first engagement member is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft to accommodate translational adjustment movement. A displacement along the helical guide causes both a translational movement and a rotational movement.

Due to this design, the displacement of the guide element or the engagement element in the axial direction at the same time causes a relative rotation between the guide element and the engagement element. The thereby rotating element consisting of the guide element and the engagement element is preferably connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the first or the second shaft section, so that a relative rotation of a shaft section is generated by the translational displacement or movement.

The helical guide of the first guide member extends along the first guide member in the form of a helix or cylindrical spiral. Preferably such a spiral or helix has a constant pitch. However, it can also have a non-constant gradient.

In a preferred embodiment, both the first guide element and the first engagement element are cylindrical and one of the first guide element and first engagement element surrounds the other of the first guide element and first engagement element at least partially. At least the outer part consisting of the first guide element and the first engagement element is then at least partially designed as a hollow shaft. The first engagement element can engage in the guide of the first guide element in the radial direction.

The first guide element is preferably designed as a solid shaft or as a hollow shaft, which has a spiral-shaped groove in a peripheral surface that forms the spiral-shaped guide.

The helical groove can be formed, for example, in an outer peripheral or lateral surface of the first guide element. The first engagement element is then preferably at least partially in the form of a hollow shaft which surrounds the first guide element at least in the area of the spiral guide and has engagement means which are directed radially inwards and which engage in the guide.

However, the first guide element can also be designed as a hollow shaft and have the spiral-shaped groove on an inner peripheral surface, the first engagement element then being arranged radially inside the first guide element and the engagement means being directed radially outwards.

A plurality of corresponding grooves can also be provided along the circumference of the first guide element, which are preferably evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. For example, two or three spiral grooves are provided along the circumference of the first guide member.

In an alternative embodiment, the first guide element and the first engagement element are designed as a spiral or helical gear coupling. Gear couplings are torsionally rigid and form-fitting couplings. They transmit a torque over each other interlocking external and internal teeth and along these teeth are usually displaceable relative to each other at least in an axial direction. In the case of spiral or helical gear couplings, the internal and/or external toothing is designed in a spiral shape. A helical toothing extends along the respective element in the form of a helical line or cylindrical spiral. Such a spiral or helix preferably has a constant pitch. However, it can also have a non-constant gradient. The external toothing and the internal toothing mesh with one another and thereby form the helical guide of the first guide element and the engagement means of the first engagement element.

In an exemplary variant of this embodiment, the first guide element is at least partially designed as a hollow shaft and has spiral-shaped internal teeth on an inner peripheral surface. The first engagement element is designed as a shaft which has a corresponding external toothing on an outer peripheral surface. The first engagement element is at least partially arranged radially inside the first guide element, so that the external and internal teeth are in engagement with each other. It goes without saying that the guide element and the engagement element can also be arranged in reverse, the engagement element then having internal teeth and the guide element having spiral-shaped external teeth.

In order to avoid axial displacement of the first and second shaft sections, in a preferred embodiment the adjustment device further comprises a second guide element with a linear guide and a second engagement element which engages in the linear guide of the second guide element and can be displaced along the linear guide. One of the second guide element and second engagement element is firmly connected or formed integrally with the other of the first and second shaft sections (i.e. with the shaft section that is not firmly connected to the first guide or engagement element), and the other is made up of the second guide element and second engagement element movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft. The linear guide preferably runs in the axial direction of the first main shaft.

One of the second guide member and the second engaging member is fixed in the axial direction of the first main shaft, while the other of the second guide member and the second engaging member is movable in the axial direction. an axial Displacement of part of the adjusting device for generating the relative rotation, in particular of the first guide element or the first engagement element, can be absorbed by a relative movement between the second guide element and the second engagement element and is not transmitted to the first and second shaft sections.

In one embodiment, one of the first guide member and the first engagement member is coupled to the drive-side first shaft portion, and one of the second guide member and the second engagement member is coupled to the connecting rod-side second shaft portion. The elements of the first guide element, first engagement element, second guide element and second engagement element that are not coupled to the first or second shaft section are firmly connected to one another both in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction.

More preferably, the first engagement member is coupled to the first shaft portion and the second guide member is coupled to the second shaft portion. The first guide member and the second engaging member are non-rotatably connected to each other and fixed to each other in the axial direction. The first engagement element and the second guide element are fixed in the axial direction, preferably directly on the first and second shaft section, respectively. An axial displacement of the first guide element causes the first guide element to rotate relative to the preferably stationary first engagement element. This rotational movement is transmitted from the first guide element via the second engagement element to the second guide element and thus to the second shaft section. Alternatively, axial displacement of the first guide member may cause circumferential rotation of the first engagement member and is accommodated by axial displacement of the second engagement member relative to the second guide member. The rotation of the first engagement member is then transmitted to the first shaft portion.

In principle, the above explanations for the formation of the first guide element and the first engagement element can be transferred analogously to the second guide element and the second engagement element with the difference that the guide of the second guide element does not extend spirally but linearly. Reference is therefore made to the statements above. This applies to the embodiment in which the guidance of the guide element is designed as a groove, as well as for the embodiment in which the guide and the engagement element are designed as a toothed coupling.

Embodiments are conceivable in which the first and the second guide element are formed integrally. For example, a (hollow) shaft can be provided, the inner and/or outer peripheral surface of which has both the helical guide of the first guide element and the linear guide of the second guide element. The spiral guide and the linear guide are then preferably formed in the same peripheral surface of the shaft and spaced apart from one another in the axial direction of the hollow shaft. Also, in a hollow shaft, one of linear and spiral guides may be formed in the inner peripheral surface and the other guide may be formed in the outer peripheral surface.

In both cases, the number of components of the adjustment device and the number of connections between individual components is reduced, so that the construction and assembly of the adjustment device can be simplified.

Preferably, the needling machine also includes an actuator and the adjustment device includes a sleeve that is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft and is coupled to the actuator in such a way that a translational actuating movement of the actuator is transmitted to the sleeve and this at least partially in the axial direction moves. The sleeve is coupled to that of the first guide element and the first engagement element, which is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft in order to initiate the axial adjustment movement in the adjusting device and to transmit it to the respective first guide element and first engagement element.

In this way, a linear adjustment movement can be introduced into the adjustment device in a particularly simple manner in order to bring about a relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section and thus a phase adjustment between the first and the second main shaft.

The actuator is preferably designed as a linear drive, for example as a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder arrangement, as a threaded rod drive or as an electromechanical linear drive.

Furthermore, the needling machine preferably comprises a control device, such as a computer or microcontroller, for controlling the actuator. The control device is preferably set up to receive data from an input device that can be operated by a user. This allows the user to specify a desired phase adjustment via the input device, e.g. by specifying the absolute angular position of the first and/or second main shaft, by specifying the change in the angular position of the first and/or second main shaft or by specifying a phase or angular position difference between the first and second main shaft. The control device then actuates the actuator or the adjustment device according to the user's specification.

Preferably, the sleeve is rotatably supported relative to the first guide member and the first engaging member and fixed in the axial direction relative to that of the first guide member and the first engaging member which is movable in the axial direction. This makes it possible to transfer the linear adjustment movement from the sleeve to the corresponding first guide element and first engagement element, but at the same time to prevent a rotary movement of the first and second shaft sections from being transferred to the sleeve during operation of the needling machine. Consequently, the sleeve can be easily stored in the machine frame of the needling machine and can be connected to the actuator in a mechanically simple manner.

• Bewegen der Nadelbalkenanordnung in einer Einstichrichtung, die in einer ersten Richtung senkrecht zur axialen Richtung der ersten und der zweiten Hauptwelle ausgerichtet ist; und
• Betätigen der Verstelleinrichtung und dadurch Drehen des ersten und des zweiten Wellenabschnitts relativ zueinander zum Einstellen der Winkelposition der ersten Hauptwelle relativ zur zweiten Hauptwelle.

A method according to the invention for needling a fleece web with a needling machine as described above comprises the steps:

• moving the needle bar assembly in a piercing direction oriented in a first direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first and second main shafts; and
• actuating the adjustment mechanism thereby rotating the first and second shaft sections relative to one another to adjust the angular position of the first main shaft relative to the second main shaft.

The needling of the non-woven web takes place by moving the needle bar arrangement in the puncture direction. The actuation of the adjusting device is carried out selectively and exclusively to adjust the angular position of the first main shaft relative to the second main shaft.

The needle bar arrangement is preferably moved in sections in the conveying direction of the fleece web. The method then includes the additional step:
moving the needle bar assembly in a nonwoven web conveying direction oriented in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the axial direction of the first and second main shafts.

• Einleiten einer Stellbewegung in die Verstelleinrichtung in einer axialen Richtung der ersten Hauptwelle;
• Drehen des ersten und des zweiten Wellenabschnitts der ersten Hauptwelle relativ zueinander aufgrund der eingeleiteten Stellbewegung.

Operating the adjustment device also includes:

• Initiating an adjusting movement in the adjusting device in an axial direction of the first main shaft;
• Rotating the first and second shaft sections of the first main shaft relative to one another as a result of the actuating movement initiated.

For this purpose, the method preferably includes the conversion of the linear adjustment movement into a rotary movement by the adjustment device.

The initiation of the adjusting movement in the adjusting device particularly preferably includes the linear displacement of the first guide element in the axial direction of the first main shaft and the resulting rotation of the first engagement element relative to the first guide element.

It goes without saying that all the processes, movements, actuations and effects described above for the needling machine according to the invention are also to be regarded as process steps and as part of the process.

Fig. 1

ist eine perspektivische Ansicht wesentlicher Komponenten einer Nadelmaschine.

Fig. 2

ist eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Ausschnitts einer erfindungsgemäßen Nadelmaschine gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform.

Fig. 3

ist eine Schnittansicht einer Verstelleinrichtung der Nadelmaschine nach Fig. 2.

Fig. 4

ist eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Ausschnitts einer erfindungsgemäßen Nadelmaschine gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform.

Further advantages and features of the invention result from the following description with reference to the figures.

1

Fig. 14 is a perspective view of essential components of a needle loom.

2

is a perspective view of a detail of a needling machine according to the invention according to a first embodiment.

3

Fig. 14 is a sectional view of an adjusting mechanism of the needling machine 2 .

4

is a perspective view of a detail of a needling machine according to the invention according to a second embodiment.

To explain the essential components of a needle loom for the invention, these are shown in 1 shown schematically in a perspective view using a needle machine 2 . The needling machine 2 comprises a needle bar arrangement 4 with at least one needle bar 6. Each needle bar 6 carries a multiplicity of needles 8 for needling a fleece web, of which two needles 8 per needle bar 6 are shown as an example. A fleece web (not shown) is moved under the needle bar arrangement 4 in a conveying direction F. While the non-woven web is moved under the needle bar arrangement 4, the needle bar arrangement 4 is moved up and down in a direction E of the needles 8 puncturing. The piercing direction E extends perpendicularly to the plane of the fleece web and essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the needles 8. The needles 8 penetrate the fleece web, preferably penetrate it completely and are pulled out of the fleece web again.

In order to generate the lifting movement of the needle bar arrangement 4 in the puncture direction E, the needling machine 2 comprises a drive arrangement 10 which is designed as a crank mechanism. In particular, the needling machine 2 comprises a first main shaft 12 which is connected to the needle bar arrangement 4 by means of a first main connecting rod 14 . The first main connecting rod 14 is mounted eccentrically on the first main shaft 12 and is connected to the needle beam arrangement 4 in an articulated manner. Furthermore, the needling machine 2 comprises a second main shaft 16 which is connected to the needle bar arrangement 4 by means of a second main connecting rod 18 . The second main connecting rod 18 is mounted eccentrically on the second main shaft 16 and is connected to the needle beam arrangement 4 in an articulated manner. The first and second main connecting rods 14, 18 are each rotatable about a connecting axis 14a, 18a on the respective main shaft 12, 16 stored. The connecting axes 14a, 18a are parallel and spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the respective main shaft 12, 16. Due to the eccentric mounting of the first and the second main connecting rod 14, 18, a rotary movement of the first and the second main shaft 12, 16 is converted into a lifting movement of the needle bar arrangement 4 converted to puncture direction E.

Optionally, the needling machine 2 can further comprise an auxiliary drive arrangement 20 . The auxiliary drive arrangement 20 comprises an auxiliary shaft 22 which is connected in an articulated manner to the needle beam arrangement 4 by means of an auxiliary connecting rod 24 , the auxiliary connecting rod 24 being mounted eccentrically on the auxiliary shaft 22 . The auxiliary drive arrangement 20 causes a feed movement of the needle bar arrangement 4 in the conveying direction F of the non-woven web, as a result of which the needle bar arrangement 4 is partially moved along with the non-woven web, while the needles 8 are in engagement with the non-woven web. The power take-off assembly 20 may further include a power take-off 26 that drives the power take-off shaft 22 in rotation.

The drive assembly 10 includes a drive 28 for driving one of the first and second main shafts 12, 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive 28 drives the first main shaft 12. However, it should be understood that the driver 28 could alternatively drive the second main shaft 16 or could drive another shaft from which torque is transmitted to the first and second main shafts 12,16. The drive 28 drives the corresponding one of the first and second main shafts 12, 16 either directly or through intermediate elements such as a transmission device or one or more gear stages. It is also conceivable that the drive arrangement 10 includes a further drive and each drive drives a main shaft.

To transmit a rotary motion or torque from the main shaft 12, 16 driven by the drive 28 to the other main shaft 12, 16, the needling machine 2 preferably includes a gear assembly 30. The gear assembly 30 includes at least one gear stage for transmitting a rotary motion or a Torque between the main shafts 12, 16. For example, the gear assembly 30 is designed as a spur gear.

The transmission assembly 30 preferably includes an input shaft 32 and two output shafts 34, 36, with the first main shaft 12 and the second main shaft 16 being the two output shafts 34, 36 form. The drive 28 drives the input shaft 32 in rotation. In the illustrated embodiment, the first main shaft 12 also forms the input shaft 32.

In 1 can be seen from the connecting axis 14a, 18a between the first and the second main connecting rod 14, 18 and the respective main shaft 12, 16 that the two main shafts 12, 16 are in the same angular position. More specifically, the main connecting rods 14, 18 are in the in 1 shown state in its bottom dead center. If the first and the second main shaft 12, 16 are now rotated at the same rotational speed, preferably in opposite directions of rotation, the movement of the first and the second main connecting rod 14, 18 takes place in phase. The first and the second main connecting rod 14, 18 are simultaneously passing through their respective top dead center and their respective bottom dead center. Due to the articulated connection to the needle bar arrangement 4, this is thereby moved up and down in the puncture direction E, with the needle bar arrangement 4 retaining its essentially horizontal alignment.

If the angular position or the angular location of the first and second main shafts 12, 16 is adjusted relative to one another, the main connecting rods 14, 18 are at different distances relative to their respective dead centers. Their movement is then no longer in phase. The first and second main connecting rods 14, 18 then run through their respective bottom dead centers at different times. This results in a lifting movement of the needle bar arrangement 4 in the puncture direction E when the main shafts 12, 16 rotate. However, the needle bar arrangement 4 is thereby tilted with respect to the horizontal. This tilting movement can be designed in such a way that the needles 8 are moved along with the non-woven web in the conveying direction F after penetrating into the non-woven web. As a result, warping of the fleece web by the needles and the stress on the needles can be reduced. By means of a difference between the angular position of the first main shaft 12 and the angular position of the second main shaft 16, the inclination or tilting movement of the needle bar arrangement 4 with respect to the horizontal can be adjusted. A maximum inclination results when one of the two main connecting rods 14, 18 is in its top dead center and the other of the two main connecting rods 14, 18 is also in bottom dead center.

In order to be able to adjust the difference in the angular position or the angular position and thus the phase of the first and the second main shaft 12, 16 relative to one another, the needling machine 2 according to the invention comprises an adjusting device 38, which is based on the Figures 2 to 4 is explained in more detail.

The 2 and 3 show a detail of a needling machine 2 with an adjustment device 38 according to a first embodiment.

In 2 the first and second main shafts 12, 16 can be seen. Both main shafts 12, 16 can be composed of several shaft sections. According to the invention, the first main shaft 12 comprises a first shaft section 40 on the drive side and a second shaft section 42 on the connecting rod side, which is separate from the first shaft section 40. The first and second shaft sections 40, 42 are arranged coaxially to the (rotational) axis 44 of the first main shaft 12.

The first shaft section 40 faces the drive 28 . The first shaft section 40 can be connected directly to the drive 28 and/or can be connected in a torque-proof manner to a component of the transmission arrangement 30 . The second shaft section 42 faces the first main connecting rod 14 . A rotational movement initiated by the drive 28 is transmitted to the second shaft section 42 via the first shaft section 40 and the adjusting device 38 . If the adjusting device 38 is not actively actuated, it transmits a rotational movement from the first to the second shaft section 40, 42 essentially unchanged. In this state, the adjusting device 38 establishes a non-rotatable connection between the first and the second shaft section 40, 42.

The adjustment device 38 can also be used the other way around, so that in the 2 and 3 the first shaft section 40 and the second shaft section 42 are to be exchanged.

As in 3 As can be seen, the adjusting device 38 comprises a first guide element 46 and a first engagement element 48 which engages with the first guide element 46 . The first guide element 46 has a helical guide 50 in which the first engagement element 48 engages and along which the first engagement element 48 can be displaced. This means that a relative movement between the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48 in the axial direction of the axis 44 is also a relative rotation between the first guide member 46 and the first engagement member 48 about the axis 44 is effected.

One of the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48 is non-rotatably connected to the first shaft section 40 and the other of the first guide element 46 and first engagement element 48 is non-rotatably connected to the second shaft section 42 . The first shaft section 40 is in turn connected to the second main shaft 16 via the transmission arrangement 30 . A relative rotation between the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48 thus causes a relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section 40, 42 and thereby in turn a relative rotation between the second shaft section 42 of the first main shaft 12 and the second main shaft 16.

In the embodiment shown, the first engagement element 48 is firmly connected to the first shaft section 40 , in particular fixed to the first shaft section 40 both in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis 44 . The first guide element 46 is movably mounted in the axial direction of the axis 44 .

In order to enable an axial displacement of the first guide element 46 relative to the first engagement element 48 without transmitting this axial displacement to the first and second shaft sections 40, 42, the adjusting device 38 preferably comprises a second guide element 52 with one or more linear guides 56 and a second engaging element 54 which engages with the linear guides 56. The second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54 are thus engaged with one another in such a way that they can be displaced relative to one another in the axial direction with respect to the axis 44 and are non-rotatably connected to one another in the circumferential direction for the transmission of a rotary movement or torque. A relative rotation between the second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54 is not possible.

One of the second guide member 52 and the second engaging member 54 is fixed in the axial direction and connected to the second shaft portion 42 . The other of the second guide member 52 and the second engaging member 54 is movable in the axial direction and connected to the corresponding one of the first guide member 46 and the first engaging member 48 that is axially movable.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second guide element 52 is fixed with respect to the second shaft section 42 both in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction and is firmly connected to the second shaft section 42 . The second engagement member 54 is slidable in the axial direction relative to the second shaft portion 42 and fixedly connected to the first guide member 46 .

The axially movable elements consisting of the first guide element 46, the first engagement element 48, the second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54, which are firmly connected to one another in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction and are axially movable, i.e. here the first guide element 46 and the second engagement element 54, can be formed integrally with one another or as separate components may be formed, which are connected to each other accordingly.

In the illustrated embodiment, a third shaft section 58 is provided, which is connected, in particular screwed, to the second engagement element 54 at one end on the connecting rod side, and is connected, in particular screwed, to the first guide element 46 at an opposite, drive-side end. Various shaft-hub connections can be used to connect the components directly or indirectly and are known to those skilled in the art.

According to the first embodiment, the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48 are designed as a toothed coupling. The second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54 are also designed as toothed couplings. The helical guide 50 of the first guide element 46 is designed as a tooth system. Engagement means 49 of the first engagement element 48 are also designed as teeth.

In a preferred variant, the first guide element 46 has internal teeth and the first engagement element 48 has external teeth. The internal toothing of the first guide element 46 forms the spiral guide 50 and is correspondingly designed in a spiral or helical shape. The threads of the internal toothing therefore run obliquely to the axis 44, preferably with a constant pitch. Due to the pitch of the internal gearing, the relationship between the axial displacement and the resulting rotational movement can be adjusted and selected as desired.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the second guide element 52 has internal teeth and the second engagement element 54 has external teeth, which mesh with one another. The internal toothing of the second guide element 52 forms the linear guide 56. Correspondingly, the threads of the internal toothing or the teeth of the toothed coupling are aligned linearly and parallel to the axis 44.

Various designs of gear couplings are known to those skilled in the art and can be used accordingly. It is also understood that, independently of one another, the first guide element 46 and/or the second guide element 52 can have external teeth and the first engagement element 48 or the second engagement element 54 can have internal teeth accordingly.

In order to adjust the angular position or the phase of the second shaft section 42 of the first main shaft 12 relative to the second main shaft 16, the adjustment device 38 must be actuated. This is done by initiating a translational adjusting movement, preferably parallel to the axis 44, in the adjusting device 38. For this purpose, the needling machine 2 comprises an adjusting drive 60 ( 2 ). The actuator 60 is coupled to the axially movable components or elements of the adjustment device 38 .

in the in 2 and 3 illustrated first embodiment, the adjusting device 38 comprises a sleeve 62 which is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft 12 and is coupled to the actuator 60 and to the axially movable components or elements of the adjusting device 38 for transmitting an actuating movement. The sleeve 62 also decouples a rotary motion of the first main shaft 12 from the actuator 60 when the needle machine 2 is in operation.

For example, the sleeve 62 is mounted on the third shaft section 58 by means of a suitable roller bearing 64 . The roller bearing 64 enables relative rotation between the third shaft section 58 and the sleeve 62 and is designed in such a way that it transmits a movement of the sleeve 62 in the axial direction of the axis 44 to the third shaft section 58 .

It goes without saying that the sleeve 62 could also be mounted on one of the axially movable components, in particular on the first guide element 46 or the second engagement element 54 , independently of the third shaft section 58 .

The actuator 60 can attack the sleeve 62 directly. However, the actuating movement can also be transmitted via additional elements from the actuating drive 60 to the sleeve 62, e.g. if this is necessary for reasons of space or serves to uniformly introduce force into or load the sleeve 62 and the roller bearing 64.

A fork 66 is therefore provided in the exemplary embodiment, which is coupled to the actuator 60 and the sleeve 62 . More specifically, one end 66a of fork 66 is pivotally connected to a movable component of actuator 60, such as an end of a piston rod of a cylinder assembly.

In addition, the fork 66 is connected to the sleeve 62, preferably articulated. For example, the fork 66 surrounds the rotating components of the adjusting device 38 or the first main shaft 12 and thereby forms an essentially ring-shaped receptacle which is connected to the sleeve 62 in at least two connecting sections 67 . The connecting sections 67 are preferably evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. At an end 66b of the fork 66 opposite the end 66a, the fork 66 is preferably articulated in the machine frame. A corresponding bearing point 68 is in 2 to see.

Alternatively, the fork 66 can only extend between the end 66a on the actuator 60 and the connecting sections 67 and end there. The fork then does not completely surround the first main shaft 12 .

The actuating movement in the axial direction of the first main shaft 12 is preferably transmitted from the fork 66 to the sleeve 62 via at least one web 70 . For the uniform introduction of force, the fork 66 is preferably connected to the sleeve 62 by means of a plurality of webs 70, 70a, the webs 70, 70a being distributed uniformly along the circumference of the sleeve 62. The webs 70, 70a are preferably attached to the connecting sections 67 of the fork 66 in an articulated manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the web 70 is articulated, in particular pivotable, both with the fork 66 and with the sleeve 62, tied together. The web 70a, on the other hand, is only articulated to the fork 67, while it is fixed to the sleeve 62, for example screwed twice, in order to obtain a statically determined system.

In the illustrated embodiment, a linear actuating movement of the actuating drive 60 causes the fork 66 to tilt about a pivot axis in the bearing point 68. In order to transmit only a component of movement in the axial direction of the axis 44 to the sleeve 62, only two lateral webs 70, 70a are provided, which are each pivoted relative to the fork 66. The respective pivot axis is aligned parallel to the pivot axis in the bearing point 68 .

Various modifications to this embodiment will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the connection between the actuator 60 and the components of the adjustment device 38 that are movable in the axial direction can be configured in any way.

In 4 a needling machine 2 with an adjustment device 38 according to a second embodiment is shown. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment essentially in the shape of individual components of the adjustment device 38. With regard to the general features of the needling machine 2, therefore, reference is made to the explanations 1 referenced and with regard to the general statements on the adjustment device 38, reference is made to the statements on the first embodiment, which also apply analogously to the second embodiment, unless otherwise described below. This applies in particular to the various options for arranging and attaching the guide and engagement elements 46, 48, 52, 54 in relation to the first and second shaft sections 40, 42, which are not described again in detail below.

The adjusting device 38 according to the second embodiment connects the first and the second shaft section 40, 42 to one another and is set up to transmit a rotational movement from the first to the second shaft section 40, 42. Only when the adjusting device 38 is actuated does it cause relative rotation between the first and second shaft sections 40, 42, while when it is not actuated it establishes a rotationally fixed connection between the first and second shaft sections 40, 42.

In this embodiment, too, the first and second shaft sections 40, 42 are preferably fixed in the axial direction.

The adjusting device 38 comprises a first guide element 46 with a spiral guide 50 and a first engagement element 48 which engages in the spiral guide 50 of the first guide element 46 by means of suitable engagement means 49 and can be displaced along the spiral guide 50 .

In this embodiment, the spiral guide 50 is formed as a groove formed in a peripheral surface of the first guide member 46 . The first engagement element 48 comprises as engagement means 49 with respect to the axis 44 radially aligned pins, one of which is accommodated in a groove. The first guide element 46 is preferably designed as a hollow shaft, with at least one groove forming the spiral guide being formed on an inner peripheral surface of this hollow shaft. As shown, such a groove can also completely penetrate the hollow shaft of the first guide element 46 . The pins of the first engagement element 48 each protrude in the radial direction into such a groove and can either be provided directly on the first shaft section 40 or formed on a separate carrier which is non-rotatably connected to the first shaft section 40 .

It goes without saying that, as an alternative, the first guide element 46 can also be arranged radially inside the first engagement element 48 . In this case, the first guide element 46 then has corresponding grooves on an outer peripheral surface and the first engagement element 48 has corresponding engagement means 49 which extend radially inwards and engage in these grooves. In this exemplary embodiment as well, an axial displacement of the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48 relative to one another due to the spiral guide 50 simultaneously causes a relative rotation between the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48.

To compensate for the linear displacement or the adjusting movement for actuating the adjustment device 38 , the adjustment device 38 also has a second guide element 52 with a linear guide 56 and a second engagement element 54 with engagement means 55 .

The linear guide 56 of the second guide element 52 is formed by a groove running parallel to the axial direction of the axis 44 . For uniform loading, several grooves can also be provided here, distributed over the circumference of the guide element 52 . The second engagement element 54 comprises a corresponding number of engagement means 55, which are aligned in the radial direction with respect to the axis 44 and can be designed as pins. Each engagement means 55 engages in a groove of the second guide element 52 . The second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54 thus engage in one another in such a way that they can be displaced relative to one another in the axial direction with respect to the axis 44 in order to accommodate an axial adjustment movement in the adjustment device 38 and not on the first and second shaft sections 40, 42 transferred to. At the same time, the second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54 are connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner in the circumferential direction.

In the example shown, the second guide element 52 and the second engagement element 54 are designed analogously to the first guide element 46 and the first engagement element 48 with the only difference that the guide 56, in contrast to the guide 50, runs linearly instead of spirally. The second guide element 52 is at least partially formed as a hollow shaft, which accommodates the second engagement element 54, so that the engagement means 55 project radially outwards into the respective groove.

The second engagement element 54 is fixed here on the second shaft section 42, while the second guide element 52 is axially displaceable.

The first guide member 46 and the second guide member 52 may be separate components. However, the first guide element 46 and the second guide element 52 can also be formed integrally, as illustrated. The guide elements 46, 52 are then preferably designed as a shaft, in particular as a hollow shaft, which has corresponding spiral guides 50 and linear guides 56 in its peripheral surface. It goes without saying that the first guide element 46 and the second guide element 52 can alternatively also be formed separately from one another and can be correspondingly connected to one another.

In the second embodiment, too, an actuating movement is initiated in the adjusting device 38 via an actuating drive 60. This can act directly on the axially movable components of the adjusting device 38 or, analogously to the first embodiment, by means of a sleeve 62 and, if necessary, a fork 66 and a roller bearing 64 be transferred to them.

In the embodiment shown, the actuating movement is initiated via the sleeve 62. The sleeve 62 can move in the axial direction of the first main shaft 12, is coupled to the actuating drive 60 and is coupled relative to the components of the adjusting device 38 or the first rotating during operation of the needling machine 2 Main shaft 12 rotatably mounted.

A particularly simple structure is now made possible in that the sleeve 62 is formed by an outer ring of the roller bearing 64 or is firmly connected to it and is directly articulated to one end of the actuator, for example a piston rod of a cylinder arrangement. The inner ring of the roller bearing 64 is mounted on an axially movable component of the adjusting device 38, in particular on the first guide element 46 or the hollow shaft, which forms both the first and the second guide element 46, 52.

It goes without saying that the sleeve 62 of the first embodiment can also be designed analogously to the second embodiment and can be connected to the actuator 60 .

Claims (13)

1. Needling machine (2) for needling a nonwoven web, having:

   a needle beam assembly (4) which comprises at least one needle beam (6);

   a first main shaft (12), on which a first main connecting rod (14) which connects the first main shaft (12) to the needle beam assembly (4) in an articulated manner is mounted eccentrically, wherein the first main shaft (12) has a first shaft section (40) on the drive side and a second shaft section (42) on the connecting rod side which is separate from the first shaft section (40), wherein the first and the second shaft section (40, 42) are arranged coaxially and rotatably relative to each other; and

   a second main shaft (16), on which a second main connecting rod (18) which connects the second main shaft (16) to the needle beam assembly (4) in an articulated manner is mounted eccentrically;

   a drive (28) for driving one of the first and second main shafts (12, 16) in rotation; and

   an adjusting device (38) for adjusting the angular position of the first and the second main shaft (12, 16) relative to each other, wherein the adjusting device (38) connects the first and the second shaft section (40, 42) of the first main shaft (12) to each other and is configured to transmit a rotational movement from the first to the second shaft section (40, 42), and which can be actuated in order to effect a relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section (40, 42);

   characterized in that

   the adjusting device (38) is at least partly axially displaceable relative to the first and/or to the second shaft section (40, 42); and

   the adjusting device (38) is designed in such a way that a translational adjusting movement of components of the adjusting device (38) effects the relative rotation between the first and the second shaft section (40, 42).
2. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a gear arrangement (30) for transmitting a rotational movement between the first shaft section (40) of the first main shaft (12) and the second main shaft (16), wherein the first shaft section (40) of the first main shaft (12) and the second main shaft (16) form output shafts of the gear arrangement (30).
3. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first and the second shaft section (40, 42) are fixed in the axial direction.
4. Needling machine (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjusting device (38) comprises a first guide element (46) with a helical guide (50) and a first engagement element (48), which engages in the helical guide (50) of the first guide element (46) and can be displaced along the helical guide (50);

   wherein one of the first guide element (46) and the first engagement element (48) is firmly connected to or formed integrally with one of the first and second shaft section (40, 42); and

   wherein the other of the first guide element (46) and the first engagement element (48) is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft (12) in order to accommodate the translational adjusting movement.
5. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 4, characterized in that the first guide element (46) is designed as a solid shaft or as a hollow shaft which has a helical groove in a circumferential surface, which forms the helical guide (50).
6. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 4, characterized in that the first guide element (46) and the first engagement element (48) are designed as a helical tooth coupling.
7. Needling machine (2) according to one of Claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the adjusting device (38) comprises a second guide element (52) with a linear guide (56) and a second engagement element (54), which engages in the linear guide (56) of the second guide element (52) and can be displaced along the linear guide (52);

   wherein one of the second guide element (52) and second engagement element (54) is firmly connected to or formed integrally with the other of the first and second shaft section (40, 42); and

   wherein the other of the second guide element (52) and second engagement element (54) is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft (12).
8. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the second guide element (52) is designed as a solid shaft or as a hollow shaft which has a linear groove in a circumferential surface, which forms the linear guide (56).
9. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the second guide element (52) and the second engagement element (54) are designed as a linear tooth coupling.
10. Needling machine (2) according to one of Claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the first and the second guide element (46, 52) are formed integrally.
11. Needling machine (2) according to one of Claims 4 to 10, characterized in that the needling machine (2) comprises an actuating drive (60) and the adjusting device (38) comprises a sleeve (62);

    wherein the sleeve (62) is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft (12), is coupled to the actuating drive (60) in such a way that a translational actuating movement of the actuating drive (60) is transmitted to the sleeve (62) and is coupled with that of the first guide element (46) and first engagement element (48) which is movable in the axial direction of the first main shaft (12), in order to initiate an axial actuating movement in the adjusting device (38); and

    wherein the actuating drive (60) is configured to move the sleeve (62) in the axial direction.
12. Needling machine (2) according to Claim 11, characterized in that the sleeve (62) is rotatably mounted relative to the first guide element (46) and to the first engagement element (48), and is fixed in the axial direction relative to that of the first guide element (46) and first engagement element (48) which is movable in the axial direction.
13. Method for needling a nonwoven web by using a needling machine (2) according to one of the preceding claims, having the steps:

    moving the needle beam assembly (4) in a piercing direction (E) which is oriented in a first direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first and second main shaft (12, 16); and

    actuating the adjusting device (38) and, as a result, rotating the first and the second shaft section (40, 42) relative to each other in order to adjust the angular position of the first main shaft (12) relative to the second main shaft (16);

    wherein the actuation of the adjusting device (38) comprises:

    initiating an actuating movement in the adjusting device (38) in an axial direction of the first main shaft (12);

    rotating the first and the second shaft section (40, 42) relative to each other as a result of the actuating movement initiated.

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