EP3899123B1 - Tufting unit and tufting machine - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a taffeta unit for a taffeta machine and a taffeta machine with such a taffeta unit.

Taffeta machines are typically used to insert sections of yarn strands into a substrate, this usually being done in such a way that a respective part of these yarn strands is firmly accommodated in the substrate and a part protrudes upwards. As a result, an artificial turf can be formed, for example, as is used on different sports fields, for example on soccer fields.

Taffeta machines are typically used to process large fields or squares that are to be provided with artificial grids. Accordingly, it is important that a taffeta machine has the highest possible performance when inserting yarn sections. Equally important is high reliability, since during a planned operation, an extended outage to carry out repair work can quickly upset schedules in a significant way.

The document WO 2017/017237 A1 discloses a tacking unit for a tacking machine, a tacking machine with such a tacking unit and an associated method. be there Yarn sections cut off and transported in parallel along an orbit and used in the underground.

The document WO 2017/183977 A1 discloses an apparatus for inserting synthetic fibers into a substrate. Fibers are transported, cut off and inserted into the subsoil.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a tacking unit for a tacking machine which has proven to be particularly efficient and reliable. It is a further object of the invention to provide a tacking machine with such a tacking unit.

According to the invention, this is achieved by a taffeta unit and a taffeta machine according to the respective main claims. Advantageous configurations can be found, for example, in the respective dependent claims.

The invention relates to a taffeta unit for a mobile taffeta machine.

The taffeta unit has a yarn feeder for feeding a number of yarn strands simultaneously and in parallel.

The taffeta unit includes at least one insert member.

The taffeta unit has a yarn transport gripper, which is designed to transport a respective free end of the yarn strands away from the yarn feed device, so that each insertion element is assigned a yarn strand.

The taffeta unit has a cutting unit, which is designed to cut the yarn strands, so that of each yarn strand associated with an insertion element, a yarn section associated with the respective insertion element remains.

Each inserting member is adapted to insert its associated portion of yarn into a base underlying the taffeta unit.

The taffeta unit according to the invention has proven to be particularly reliable and trouble-free in operation. One reason for this can be seen, for example, in the fact that the yarn feed device ensures that the yarn strands are fed in simultaneously and in parallel can then be taken over directly by the yarn transport gripper. This in turn ensures in a simple manner that the yarn strands or yarn sections can reach a position in which they can be inserted directly into the ground by the insertion element.

All processes described and/or necessary can be carried out fully automatically. In this case, simple control mechanisms can be used, for example those which are disclosed further below.

It should be understood that a taffeta unit can be, for example, that part of a taffeta machine that is specifically responsible for preparing and inserting yarn sections. For example, this may correspond to the functionality described herein. A taffeta machine typically includes such a taffeta unit and has, for example, other components such as chassis, drive, clutch, control or other supporting systems. Furthermore, a taffeta machine typically also has means for storing yarns, which can then be used by means of the taffeta unit.

Parallel feeding can be understood, for example, as meaning that the yarn strands run parallel to one another. Simultaneous feeding can in particular be understood to mean that the yarn strands, in particular yarn strands lying parallel, are moved in the same way. This has proven to be particularly advantageous, especially when a particularly large number of yarn strands are to be processed at the same time in order to shorten the necessary processing time.

An insertion element can be understood in particular as that element which ensures that yarn sections are inserted into the subsoil. This can be a taffeta needle, for example, as will be described in more detail below. In particular, it can be provided that as many insertion elements as yarn strands are used, so that each yarn strand is assigned a respective insertion element, which inserts yarn sections of the respective yarn strand into the subsoil.

A strand of yarn, which is assigned to a respective insertion element, can be arranged, for example, below this insertion element. This allows easy insertion into the ground. This is understood to mean in particular that a lowest point of the respective strand of yarn is arranged directly below the insertion element. Other parts of the yarn strand can in particular stand up, for example in a V-shape.

According to the invention, the yarn feed device has a plurality of rotating yarn holders. Typically, a respective yarn holder can hold and release the yarn strands. A particularly simple operation can be ensured by a rotating arrangement, since rotation about one axis is sufficient for the feed.

The twine holders can, for example, each be designed to work together in pairs, so that each twine strand is held by two twine holders of a pair before it is cut. As a result, a certain section can be defined in the yarn strands, which lies between two yarn holders that each work together in pairs. For example, the twine strands can be cut between the twine holders of each pair. According to one possible embodiment, the yarn feed device has three pairs of yarn holders. According to a further possible embodiment, the yarn feed device has four pairs of yarn holders. Such designs have proven to be advantageous because a number of three or four pairs of yarn holders ensures ongoing operation and is easy to handle. In principle, however, any other number of pairs of twine holders can also be used. It should also be mentioned that the yarn holders do not necessarily have to be combined in pairs.

According to a preferred embodiment, the yarn transport gripper is designed to grip respective end sections of the yarn strands, which are clamped between two yarn holders of a pair, in order to grip the free ends of the yarn strands. By gripping the end section, the respective yarn strand can be gripped at a section at which it is advantageously held. This avoids mistakes when gripping. For example, the respective strand of yarn can also be pulled further by means of the yarn transport gripper, in which case, for example, unrolling from a bobbin can also be provided.

The yarn feed device can preferably be designed to rotate and/or advance the yarn holders before each taffeta process. In this case, for example, new end sections of the yarn strands can be provided for gripping by the yarn transport grippers. By rotating or continuing, the respective strands of yarn are advanced in a simple manner.

The yarn holders are preferably arranged such that they can rotate about a respective common axis. This allows a particularly easy rotation of the twine holder.

According to a preferred embodiment, each twine holder has a first twine holder plate and a second twine holder plate, which can be displaced relative to one another in order to hold and release the twine strands. For example, yarns can be clamped between these two yarn holder plates. Thread holders can also share thread holder plates, for example thread holders of a pair of thread holders.

According to a preferred embodiment, each yarn holder has at least one upper, one middle and one lower yarn holder plate. The middle yarn holder plate is preferably displaceable by a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, against the other two yarn holder plates for holding and releasing the yarn strands. For example, yarn strands can be clamped between the middle and the upper yarn holder plate and between the middle and the lower yarn holder plate. By moving them, they can be released again accordingly.

According to a preferred embodiment, each yarn holder has at least a first, a second, a third and a fourth yarn holder plate. Preferably, the second and fourth yarn holder plates can be displaced by a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, against the other two yarn holder plates for holding and releasing the yarn strands. This enables clamping between two pairs of plates, which enables the yarn strands to be clamped particularly reliably.

Preferably, at least one twine holder plate of a twine holder is displaced relative to the other twine holder plate by means of a closing cam and an opening cam, each movable preferably by a drive, in particular by a hydraulic drive. By means of respective opening and closing curves, a respective yarn holder plate can be displaced simply by moving along a path, for example along a circular path with rotating circulation, and thereby clamps or releases yarn strands at predetermined points. This requires no further active elements, so that the clamping or releasing takes place automatically. In addition, a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, can enable the closing cam and/or opening cam to be moved, which, for example, allows actuation independently of a movement along the track. It can thus be achieved, for example, that yarn strands are released at a specific point in time without the yarn holder plate having to be moved further for this purpose.

The yarn feed device is preferably designed to release the yarn strands during transport. This can be done, for example, by appropriate design of opening and/or closing curves or by actuation by means of a drive.

The yarn transport gripper preferably pulls the yarn strands through the yarn feed device during transport. As a result, a corresponding advance can be achieved by means of the yarn transport gripper. Provision can also be made for the yarn transport gripper to unwind the yarn strands from the respective yarn bobbins during transport. As a result, a respective further supply of yarn from the yarn bobbins provided for this purpose can be achieved by means of the yarn transport gripper. Additional elements for unwinding or for a corresponding feed can preferably be dispensed with. However, it should be understood that an active unwinding of yarn spools can also be provided as an alternative or in addition.

According to a preferred embodiment, the taffeta unit has an entry-side deflection for guiding the yarn strands in front of the yarn feed device. As a result, the yarn strands can be reliably provided in front of the yarn feed device.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cutting unit has a cutting knife and a counter-knife, which can be displaced in relation to one another in order to cut off the yarn sections. As a result, the cutting unit can be implemented in a simple manner, with a high degree of scalability being possible in particular, i.e. a large number of yarn strands can be cut simultaneously using only one cutting knife and only one counter-knife. Alternatively, however, separate cutting tools can also be present for the respective yarn strands.

The cutting knife can preferably be displaced relative to the counter-knife by means of a drive, in particular a hydraulic cylinder. This allows the cutting blade to be actuated in a simple manner. However, other options for actuating the cutting blade are also possible.

According to a preferred embodiment, each inserting element has a taffeta needle which is designed to grip and insert the respective yarn section into the substrate. A simple insertion of the respective yarn section is possible by means of such a taffeta needle, with the taffeta needle typically being arranged vertically and moving only one-dimensionally, in particular in the vertical direction. This allows for a very simple implementation. The Taffeta needle can penetrate the substrate as far as necessary and then withdraw it. The desired depth can also be adjusted in a simple manner.

The respective taffeta needle can preferably be moved vertically and/or perpendicularly to the substrate. This allows for easy insertion movement. In this case, the indication of direction can in particular relate to a typical installation state in a taffeta machine traveling on a surface. In particular, it can be provided that all taffeta needles of the taffeta unit can be moved together or uniformly.

The taffeta unit preferably has a taffeta plate on the underside, in which at least one opening for guiding the yarn section is formed. By means of such an opening, it can be ensured that the yarn section remains in position during insertion and, if necessary, is also bent over. In addition, the respective taffeta needle or the insertion element can be guided.

The taffeta unit preferably has at least one needle guide for guiding the taffeta needles or for guiding a respective taffeta needle, wherein according to a preferred embodiment each needle guide with the taffeta needles can be partially moved, preferably up to the subsurface or up to the taffeta panel. The taffeta needles can be stabilized and guided in a preferred manner by means of such a needle guide, so that malfunctions and associated downtimes can be effectively prevented. The needle guide can, for example, be designed in such a way that each taffeta needle is enclosed, for example with only a small amount of play, so that movement of the respective taffeta needle transversely to the respective longitudinal direction is prevented.

According to one embodiment, the inserting element can unwind the yarn strands from the respective yarn bobbins during the movement. As a result, an unwinding function can be implemented, for example, when inserting or during another movement. For example, for this purpose the respective yarn strands can be held by the yarn transport gripper, with the unwinding taking place through a movement of the respective insertion element.

By moving the insertion elements or the taffeta needles, section halves of equal length can be produced, for example. Such functionality can also be used advantageously for unwinding, for example.

The yarn transport gripper can, for example, be pivoted at a pivot point. As a result, a simple actuation of the yarn transport gripper can be made possible. For example, actuation can take place by means of a movable element which engages at a point which is different from the pivot point. The yarn transport gripper can thus be pivoted and thus only perform a one-dimensional movement, which is easy to implement. With such a pivoting movement, for example, the functionality of transporting yarn strands or unwinding the yarn strands from spools can be implemented.

The taffeta unit can, for example, have an actuatable rod for pivoting the yarn transport grippers. The rod can be actuated, for example, hydraulically or by a crank drive. By means of this rod and/or the associated drive, the already mentioned pivoting movement of the yarn transport gripper can be implemented in an advantageous manner.

The yarn transport gripper can in particular have a transport gripper for gripping the free ends of the yarn strands. The transport gripper can be designed in particular to hold and release the yarn strands or their free ends in order to implement the desired function. For example, a respective strand of yarn can be held firmly for transport, in which case it can be released, for example, for insertion.

The transport gripper can have, for example, a first transport gripper plate and a second transport gripper plate, which can be displaced relative to one another, in particular by a hydraulic drive, for gripping and releasing the free ends. As a result, the yarn strands can be easily clamped or released.

The yarn transport gripper can be designed in particular to release the yarn sections during insertion. This allows the yarn sections to move freely while being deployed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cutting unit can be mounted pivotably. This allows them to be placed in an appropriate position when required. Regarding the implementation and the advantages of pivoting, reference is made to the above statements on the yarn transport gripper.

The cutting unit can be designed, for example, so that it is pivoted towards the yarn strands before a respective cutting process and is pivoted away from the yarn strands after the cutting process. As a result, the yarn strands can move or be pulled further independently of the cutting unit, while the cutting unit is only in the appropriate position when a cutting process is actually to be carried out.

The taffeta unit preferably has an adjustment device for the end position of the yarn transport gripper and/or the position of the cutting device. In this way it can be determined, for example, how far the respective yarn strands are pulled through the yarn transport gripper. It can also be determined in which position the cutting device should cut the yarn strands. This allows, for example, an adaptation to different purposes, such as different insertion depths or different yarns. The respective adjustment device can be implemented mechanically, for example. For example, it can be operated manually or electrically.

The taffeta unit preferably has a depth adjustment device for the insertion depth of the taffeta needles into the subsurface. This makes it easy to set how far the taffeta needles are to move downwards when they are inserted, and it is thus also possible to determine how far the respective yarn strands are to be inserted into the subsoil. This enables adaptation to different requirements with regard to the depth at which the yarn sections are ultimately to remain in the subsoil. Depending on how the yarn strands are cut off, it can also be set how far the yarn sections protrude from the substrate after the end of the respective insertion process. The depth adjustment device can be realized, for example, as a mechanical height adjustment. For example, it can be operated manually or electrically.

The invention further relates to a mobile taffeta machine for inserting yarn sections positioned and cut off from each yarn strand by a taffeta unit according to the invention into a substrate located under the taffeta unit. The taffeta machine has in particular a taffeta unit, which can in particular be a taffeta unit according to the invention. All of the versions and variants described herein can be used.

The taffeta machine can in particular, in addition to the taffeta unit, other components such as a frame, a chassis, a drive, a coupling for attaching to a Have traction vehicle, a controller, a control unit, spools for storing and unwinding of yarn strands and other components.

It can be provided that the yarn transport grippers in each case transport the end sections of the yarns held by the yarn feed device away from the yarn feed device, preferably in an alternating pivoting movement. It can further be provided that the yarn transport grippers assign the respective yarn strand to an insertion element and position it accordingly. After the cutting unit has cut the respective yarn sections from the respective yarn strands, the inserting element can insert the respective yarn sections into the ground.

Fig. 1:

eine Tafteinheit in einem ersten Zustand,

Fig. 2:

die Tafteinheit in einem zweiten Zustand,

Fig. 3:

die Tafteinheit in einem dritten Zustand,

Fig. 4:

die Tafteinheit in einem vierten Zustand,

Fig. 5:

die Tafteinheit in einem fünften Zustand,

Fig. 6:

einen Teil einer Garnzuführeinrichtung,

Fig. 7:

einen anderen Teil einer Garnzuführeinrichtung,

Fig. 8:

Garnhalter einer Garnzuführeinrichtung gemäß einer ersten Ausführung,

Fig. 9:

Garnhalter einer Garnzuführeinrichtung gemäß einer zweiten Ausführung,

Fig. 10:

einen Querschnitt durch Teile einer Garnzuführeinrichtung,

Fig. 11:

eine alternative Ausführung eines Garnhalters in einem ersten Zustand,

Fig. 12:

den Garnhalter von Fig. 11 in einem zweiten Zustand,

Fig. 13:

einen Transportgreifer in einem ersten Zustand,

Fig. 14:

den Transportgreifer von Fig. 13 in einem zweiten Zustand,.

Fig. 15:

eine Schneideinheit mit Betätigungskomponenten, und

Fig. 16:

die Schneideinheit mit Betätigungskomponenten von Fig. 15 mit weiteren Komponenten.

In the drawing, the invention is shown schematically in particular in exemplary embodiments. Show it:

Figure 1:

a taffeta unit in a first state,

Figure 2:

the taffeta unit in a second state,

Figure 3:

the taffeta unit in a third state,

Figure 4:

the taffeta unit in a fourth state,

Figure 5:

the taffeta unit in a fifth state,

Figure 6:

part of a yarn feed device,

Figure 7:

another part of a yarn feeder,

Figure 8:

Yarn holder of a yarn feeding device according to a first embodiment,

Figure 9:

Yarn holder of a yarn feeding device according to a second embodiment,

Figure 10:

a cross section through parts of a yarn feed device,

Figure 11:

an alternative embodiment of a yarn holder in a first state,

Figure 12:

the yarn holder from 11 in a second state,

Figure 13:

a transport gripper in a first state,

Figure 14:

the transport gripper from 13 in a second state,.

Figure 15:

a cutting unit with actuation components, and

Figure 16:

the cutting unit with actuation components from 15 with other components.

In the figures, elements that are the same or that correspond to one another are denoted by the same reference symbols and are therefore not described again unless this is expedient. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be transferred to the same parts with the same reference numbers or the same component designations. Also the position information selected in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure and is to be transferred to the new position in the event of a change of position. Furthermore, individual features or combinations of features from the different exemplary embodiments shown and described can also represent independent, inventive solutions or solutions according to the invention.

1 12 shows a tack unit 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The taffeta unit 10 is in 1 shown in a first state. The taffeta unit 10 is also disclosed in US Pat Figures 2 to 5 shown, the figures each showing different states. Overall, in the Figures 1 to 5 a typical process sequence for using the taffeta unit 10 is shown, which begins with the provision of corresponding yarn strands and ends with the insertion of yarn sections into a substrate 12. It should be understood that the process sequence shown can also be viewed as an independent aspect of the invention.

The taffeta unit 10 includes a yarn feeder 20 . The yarn feeder has a total of six yarn holders 22, which are grouped into three pairs of two yarn holders 22 each. In each case two yarn holders 22 of a pair are arranged in an approximately U-shaped configuration. The pairs are numbered 1, 2, 3.

The yarn feeder 20 is designed to rotate about a central axis. A drive, not shown, is used for this purpose, which can be designed, for example, electrically or mechanically. With such a rotation of the yarn feed device 20, the yarn holders 22 rotate accordingly.

A plurality of yarn strands 30 are fed to the taffeta unit 10 . These strands of yarn 30 are not part of the taffeta unit 10 but are used by the taffeta unit 10, that is to say they are cut up and used. A deflection 37 is used in particular to feed the yarn strands 30, which ensures that the yarn strands 30 are fed along a predetermined curve.

The yarn strands 30 are parallel to each other, in the view of 1 and only one strand of yarn 30 can be seen in each of the other figures. The other yarn strands 30 run parallel to the visible yarn strand 30 behind the plane of the paper.

Yarn holders 22 are each configured to either grip or release strands of yarn 30 . If the yarn strands 30 are gripped by a respective yarn holder 22, this means that the yarn strands 30 are taken along by a movement of the respective yarn holder 22, in particular as part of the already described rotation of the yarn feed device 20. In this way, for example, additional yarn can be fed in, it being possible for example for it to be unwound from corresponding spools (not shown).

The taffeta unit 10 here includes a plurality of insert members 40 . A respective insertion element 40 is designed as a taffeta needle 42 . As shown, the tacking needle 42 is oriented vertically. It can be moved in the vertical direction, i.e. one-dimensionally, which corresponds to an up and down movement.

The taffeta unit 10 has as many taffeta needles 42 as it processes yarn strands 30 . A respective taffeta needle 42 is thus assigned to each strand of yarn 30 . Each taffeta needle 42 basically serves to insert a respective yarn section into the substrate 12 under the taffeta unit 10 . The exact mode of operation will be discussed in more detail below.

The tacking unit 10 further includes a needle guide 44 which is arranged such that the tacking needles 42 extend through the needle guide 44 . The taffeta needles 42 are stabilized by the needle guide 44 . This means in particular that they can essentially only move according to the intended up and down movement. This reliably prevents a temporary break-out and any associated malfunctions.

The taffeta unit 10 has a yarn transport gripper 50 . The yarn transport gripper 50 is mounted pivotably about a pivot point 52 . To actuate the yarn transport gripper 50, the taffeta unit 10 has an actuatable rod 54, which in the present case is designed to be actuated hydraulically. The actuatable rod 54 is connected to the yarn transport gripper 50 at a location different from the pivot point 52 . As a result, a pivoting movement of the yarn transport gripper 50 can be induced by means of the rod 54 that can be actuated.

The yarn transport gripper 50 has a transport gripper 56 . The transport gripper 56 is designed to clamp the yarn strands 30 or to release them. If the transport gripper 56 clamps the strands of yarn 30, they can be transported and, for example, also pulled further, in particular by means of the pivoting movement just described become. This can also cause the yarn strands 30 to unroll from the respective spools, for example. The exact functionality will be discussed in more detail below.

The taffeta unit 10 includes a cutting unit 60 . The cutting unit 60 is also pivotable, as shown, about a pivot axis 62. The cutting unit 60 is adapted to cut the yarn strands 30. FIG. This can be done in particular in a state that 3 is shown. At this time, the yarn strands 30 pass through the cutting unit 60 as shown, so the cutting unit 60 can easily cut them off. This will be discussed in more detail below. For further method steps, the cutting unit 60 can then be pivoted, so that the yarn strands 30 can be transported independently of the cutting unit 60 or can assume appropriate positions in space.

Below the needle guide 44 the taffeta unit 10 has a taffeta panel 70 . In this respective openings 75 are formed. Each taffeta needle 42 is assigned a respective opening 75, with the respective taffeta needle 42 passing through the respective opening 75 when the respective taffeta needle 42 is displaced downward. This will be discussed in more detail below.

By means of the taffeta plate 70, the taffeta needles 42 can be additionally stabilized shortly before they are introduced into the substrate 12. A lateral breaking out or other malfunctions are thereby prevented in a reliable manner.

2 shows the taffeta unit 10 in a state in which, starting from the 1 shown state process steps have been carried out.

In particular, the yarn transport gripper 50 was pivoted to the right, which was done by extending the rod 54 that can be actuated. As a result of this pivoting movement, the transport gripper 56 now comes into engagement with the yarn strands 30, specifically at a point between two yarn holders 22 assigned in pairs. The transport gripper 56 can then grip the yarn strands 30, which is done in particular by moving a first transport gripper plate against a second transport gripper plate can, whereby the yarn strands 30 can typically be clamped between the two transport gripper plates. However, it is also possible, for example, to use more than two transport gripper plates, which can at least partially be displaced in relation to one another.

It should be understood that the pivot point 52 appears to be over the tacking needles 42 only incidentally in the figures. There is no mechanical connection here.

3 shows the taffeta machine 10 in a further state after a further method step, which consists in particular in the pivoting of the yarn transport gripper 50 to the left. As already mentioned, the yarn strands 30 were previously gripped by means of the transport gripper 56 . The yarn strands 30 are thereby released from the yarn holders 22, so that the yarn transport gripper 50 can pull the yarn strands 30 out of spools (not shown). The strands of yarn 30 are now located at least partially below the needle guide 44. One strand of yarn 30 is now associated with a taffeta needle 42 in such a way that a strand of yarn 30 is located below the respective taffeta needle 42. The yarn strands 30 are now held by the yarn transport gripper 50 on the left-hand side. They are held by the yarn feed device 20 on the right-hand side.

To achieve the state which 3 shown, the yarn strands 30 have been pulled by the yarn transport gripper 50 through a pivoting movement under the respectively assigned taffeta needle 42, so that the yarn strands 30 are now held by the transport gripper 56 and lie directly under a respectively assigned taffeta needle 42 on the needle guide 44.

4 Figure 12 shows the taffeta unit 10 in yet another condition. In doing so, the taffeta needles 42 were moved downwards, and with them the needle guide 44 was also moved downwards. The needle guide 44 is now directly adjacent to the taffeta panel 70 . As shown, the respective taffeta needle 42 protrudes below the needle guide 44 so that the yarn strand 30 lying underneath is gripped and pressed down. This leads to the tip of the yarn strand 30 which is in 4 can be seen immediately below the taffeta needle 42. The strands of yarn 30 are then pulled a little further. The yarn strands 30 are then cut by the cutting unit 60 so that the in figure 5 shown state can be passed.

The taffeta needles 42 were moved down so far that they penetrate into the substrate 12 . On the right side, the areas of the yarn strands 30 which pass under the taffeta needles 42 have been cut by the cutting unit 60 in the process. The respective free ends were released by the transport gripper 56 on the left-hand side. Thus, each tack needle is 42 a respective yarn section 35 is assigned, which is no longer connected to the rest of the respective yarn strand 30 .

Due to the downward movement of the respective taffeta needle 42 , the respective yarn section 35 is taken down into the subsurface 12 . It is used in such a way that part of the yarn section 35 is located in the base 12, but part of it protrudes upwards. Thus, the respective yarn section 35 is anchored in the substrate 12 on the one hand, but also has sections protruding upwards on the other hand. These can, for example, protrude 20 mm above the base 12, it being mentioned that other values are also possible. This corresponds to a typical design of artificial turf, with the upwardly protruding sections forming the visible and perceptible part of the artificial turf.

In the transition from the in 4 shown state to the in figure 5 In the state shown, the yarn feed device 20 was further rotated by 120° to the left. As a result, yarn strands 30 are now again located between yarn holders 22, so that the yarn transport gripper 56, as already described above, can take hold of them and pull them to the left. The method sequence described here can then begin again.

6 shows part of the yarn feed device 20.

The yarn feed device 20 can be rotated about an axis 21 . The yarn feed device 20 has a shaft 23 on which the yarn holders 22 already described are fastened. As already referred to 1 As mentioned, the twine holders 22 are arranged in pairs here, namely in three pairs here. The twine holders 22 are connected to the shaft 23 in a rotationally fixed manner.

A motor 84 is used to drive the shaft 23. This also serves as a bearing for the shaft 23 on the left-hand side. The shaft 23 is mounted in a ball bearing 88 on the right-hand side.

A clock wheel 86 and a sensor 87 arranged above it are located to the left of the motor 84. The rotation of the shaft 23 can thus be monitored.

Immediately above shaft 23 is in 6 a part of a yarn holder 22 is shown schematically. This has a movable yarn holder plate 24, which is mounted in such a way that it can only be displaced to a limited extent in one dimension in the horizontal direction. The Yarn Holder 22 also has a guide wheel 26 which is rigidly connected to the movable twine holder plate 24 . Thus, movement of the guide wheel 26 is immediately transmitted to the movable twine holder plate 24.

An opening cam 80 and a closing cam 82 are used to determine the movement of the movable yarn holder plate 24. These are each designed as solid bodies.

The guide wheel 26 is in the in 6 state shown directly at the opening cam 80. As a result, the movable twine holder plate 24 is controlled with respect to its horizontal movement, the guide wheel 26 moving about the axis 21 along the opening cam 80 in accordance with the rotation of the twine holder 22 already described. A horizontal movement of the guide wheel 26 and thus also a corresponding horizontal movement of the movable twine holder plate 24 can thus be achieved by the design of the surface of the opening curve 80 facing the guide wheel 26 .

As will be described in more detail below, the twine holder 22 also has at least one fixed twine holder plate, the movable twine holder plate 24 being movable in particular relative to this fixed twine holder plate. Because of the design of the two plates, strands of yarn can be clamped between the two plates. In particular, strands of yarn may be caught when the movable yarn holder plate 24 is in a state after being horizontally shifted to the right. If, on the other hand, the movable yarn holder plate 24 is shifted to the left, for example by the opening cam 80 as just described, the yarn strands are released so that they can move freely along their respective longitudinal direction.

The yarn feed device 20 also has a drive 90 which serves to move the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82 in the horizontal direction. As a result, opening or closing can be effected independently of the movement of the respective yarn holder 22 along the circular path. This is discussed below with reference to 7 be described in more detail.

7 shows the yarn transport device 20 from a different view and in a different state. With regard to the components already described, refer to the description of 6 referred.

The drive 90 is connected to one or more guide rods, of which a guide rod 92 in 7 is visible. The guide rods 92 are rigidly connected to the opening curve 80 and to the closing curve 82, with the opening curve 80 and the closing curve 82 being mounted in such a way that they can be moved horizontally to a limited extent. By moving the guide rods 92, the opening curve 80 and the closing curve 82 can thus also be moved in the same way.

A horizontal movement of the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82 is thus possible by means of the drive 90, which can move the guide rods 92. This allows, for example, yarn strands to be released independently of a movement of the respective yarn holder along the intended circular path.

It should be understood that the closing cam 82 acts on the movable twine holder plate 24 in a manner similar to that described with respect to the opening cam 80, but specifically in the opposite direction. In particular, the closing cam 82 can be used to shift the movable yarn holder plate 24 to the right, so that yarn strands can be clamped, for example.

8 shows the yarn transport device 20 in a sectional view from a direction transverse to that of FIG 6 and 7 seen. The combination of two twine holders 22 in pairs in each case in a respective U-shape can be clearly seen here. You can also see how these are structured internally.

Two fixed twine holder plates 27 are installed on the outside, which cannot be moved and are firmly connected to the shaft 23 .

The movable yarn holder plate 24 is arranged centrally between the two fixed yarn holder plates 27 . As already mentioned, this can be moved horizontally. Through the already described, in 8 Not visible configuration of the yarn holder plates 24, 27 yarn strands 30 can be clamped between these two yarn holder plates 24, 27 or released. A pinching makes it possible, in particular, for the corresponding yarn strands 30 to be entrained by a rotation of the yarn feed device 20 .

9 shows an alternative embodiment of the yarn feed device 20. In contrast to the embodiment described so far, there are not six but a total of eight yarn holders 22 provided, which are also arranged in pairs to each other in a respective U-shape. Thus, there are four pairs of twine holders 22 in total. Otherwise, with regard to the functionality and the specific design, reference is made to the description already given. Three of the pairs of twine holders 22 are in 9 shown only schematically.

10 shows a top view of the opening cam 80. It can be seen that the opening cam 80 is approximately horseshoe-shaped or U-shaped, with the guide wheel 26 already described running on the opening cam 80 for part of the intended revolution and otherwise not on the Opening curve 80 runs. For example, when the guide wheel 26 is in a state where it is not in contact with the opener cam 80, it will allow the movable twine holder plate 24 to move onto the opener cam 80. Such a movement can be triggered in particular by the closing cam 82 . When the guide wheel 26 comes into contact with the opening cam 80 again, the movable twine holder plate 24 is typically pushed away from the opening cam 80 in the process.

11 shows schematically a twine holder 22 in an alternative embodiment. In this case, not only one movable yarn holder plate 24 is provided, but rather two movable yarn holder plates 24 are provided. These are moved coupled to each other.

The sequence from top to bottom is that first a movable twine holder plate 24, then a fixed twine holder plate 27, then another movable twine holder plate 24 and then another fixed twine holder plate 27 are provided.

11 shows an open state, with a total of eight yarn strands 30 shown here also being drawn in. These pass freely through respective recesses in the twine holder plates 24, 27 so that they are not pinched anywhere. This means in particular that the yarn strands 30 can be moved freely along their respective longitudinal direction, although they are inside the yarn holder 22 . It should be mentioned that any other number of yarn strands can also be used.

12 on the other hand, FIG. It can be seen that the twine strands 30 have been clamped between the movable twine holder plates 24 and the fixed twine holder plates 27.

The execution, which in the 11 and 12 is shown and is based on a total of four twine holder plates 24, 27 has turned out to be advantageous again compared to an embodiment with three twine holder plates. In particular, the strands of yarn 30 can be clamped even more reliably.

The 13 and 14 separately show the transport gripper 56 with continuous yarn strands 30. 13 shows an open state in which the yarn strands 30 are freely movable along their respective longitudinal direction. 14 shows a closed state in which the yarn strands 30 are held by the transport gripper 56.

The transport gripper 56 has a first transport gripper plate 58 and a second transport gripper plate 59 . These can be moved against each other. The yarn strands 30 can be guided between the transport gripper plates 58, 59 through recesses formed in each case, whereby they are held in the in 13 State shown are freely movable along their respective longitudinal direction. If the first transport gripper plate 58 is displaced to the right relative to the stationary second transport gripper plate 59, the yarn strands 30 are jammed between the two transport gripper plates 58,59. this is in 14 shown. This state makes it possible, for example, to pull the yarn strands 30 to the left during the pivoting movement from right to left of the yarn transport gripper 50, which has already been described above, and thereby, for example, also unwind new yarn from the respective yarn spools. If yarn sections are then to be used, for example, the in 13 shown open state are taken.

15 shows a sectional view through a part of the already mentioned shaft 23 and the cutting unit 60. The pivot axis 62 is also shown, about which the cutting unit 60 can be pivoted.

The cutting unit 60 has another ball bearing 64 . A nub wheel 28 is mounted on the shaft 23 and is connected to the shaft 23 in a rotationally fixed manner. The knobbed wheel thus always rotates with the shaft 23 . Three recesses 29 are formed in the knobbed wheel 28, in which the further ball bearing 64 can engage, as shown, with corresponding rotational positions of the knobbed wheel 28.

When the additional ball bearing 64 engages in one of the recesses 29 as shown, the cutting unit 60 is in a pivoted-in position. This can be used in particular for a cutting process. If the shaft 23 continues to rotate, this also rotates Knob wheel 28 further and thus pushes the other ball bearing 64 to the outside. This pivots the cutting unit 60 outward so that it is spaced from the twine strands 30 . This allows, for example, the yarn strands 30 to be pulled further.

through the in 15 The implementation shown ensures that the shaft 23 automatically ensures the correct pivoting position of the cutting unit 60 via the knob wheel 28 and the additional ball bearing 64 .

16 shows a further sectional view, whereby in addition to the 15 components shown, the opening curve 80 can be seen. This sits in front of the cam wheel 28. As soon as a respective yarn holder 22 has gripped the yarn strands 30, the opening cam 80 can be actuated. The yarn strands 30 are thus released and the yarn transport gripper 50 can pull the yarn strands 30 further. After that, in one possible embodiment, the taffeta needles 42 move down. The closing cam 82 can then be actuated and the opening cam 80 can thus be retracted. As the taffeta needles 42 are lowered further, the shaft 23 can be rotated at the same time in order to transport the yarn strands 30 into a position in which the yarn transport gripper 50 can grip the yarn strands 30 again. So that the yarn holders 22 can pick up the yarn strands 30 again, the yarn holders 22 are opened again before the deflection 37 is passed. This is done by two ball bearings below the opening curve 80. When driving onto the closing curve 82, the yarn holders 22 are closed again and the yarn strands 30 are thus clamped.

• ▪ Greifen von Garnsträngen mittels des Garntransportgreifers,
• ▪ Freigeben der Garnstränge in der Garnzuführeinrichtung,
• ▪ Verschwenken des Garntransportgreifers weg von der Garnzuführeinrichtung, dabei Anordnung der Garnstränge unter dem Einsetzelement,
• ▪ Verbringen des Schneidelements in eine Schneidposition,
• ▪ Zerschneiden der Garnstränge, dabei Erzeugen von Garnabschnitten,
• ▪ Freigeben der Garnabschnitte,
• ▪ Einsetzen der Garnabschnitte mittels eines jeweiligen Einsetzelements.

In summary, a possible process sequence can be described as follows.

• ▪ Gripping of yarn strands using the yarn transport gripper,
• ▪ releasing the yarn strands in the yarn feed device,
• ▪ Pivoting the yarn transport gripper away from the yarn feed device, thereby arranging the yarn strands under the insertion element,
• ▪ bringing the cutting element into a cutting position,
• ▪ Cutting the yarn strands, thereby creating yarn sections,
• ▪ releasing the twine sections,
• ▪ Insertion of the yarn sections by means of a respective insertion element.

Claims (14)

1. Tufting unit for a mobile tufting machine, wherein the tufting unit (10) has the following:

   - a yarn infeed installation (20) for simultaneously feeding a number of yarn strands (30) in parallel;

   - at least one insertion element (40);

   - a yarn transport gripper (50) which is configured for transporting a respective free end of the yarn strands (30) away from the yarn infeed installation (20) such that each insertion element (40) is in each case assigned one yarn strand (30);

   - a cutting unit (60) which is configured for cutting the yarn strands (30) such that, of each yarn strand (30) assigned to an insertion element (40), one yarn portion (35) that is assigned to the respective insertion element (40) remains;

   - wherein each insertion element (40) is configured for inserting the respective assigned yarn portion (35) into a substrate (12) that is situated below the tufting unit (10), characterized in that the yarn infeed installation (20) has a plurality of rotating yarn holders (22).
2. Tufting unit according to Claim 1, characterized in that the yarn holders (22) are in each case configured so as to interact in pairs such that each yarn strand (30) prior to cutting is held by two yarn holders (22) of one pair.
3. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn infeed installation (20) before each tufting procedure is configured for rotating and/or guiding the yarn holders (22) onward so as to provide new end portions of the yarn strands for gripping by the yarn transport grippers (50).
4. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn holders (22) are disposed so as to be rotatable about a common axis (21).
5. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one yarn holder plate (24) of a yarn holder (22) by means of a closing cam (82) and an opening cam (80) which are in each case movable by one drive (90), in particular by one hydraulic drive, is displaced relative to the other yarn holder plate (27).
6. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn infeed installation (20) releases the yarn strands (30) during transportation, the yarn transport gripper (50) during transportation pulls the yarn strands (30) through the yarn infeed installation (20) and unwinds said yarn strands (30) from the respective yarn packages.
7. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each insertion element (40) has one tufting needle (42) which is configured for gripping the respective yarn portion (35) and inserting the latter into the substrate (12).
8. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tufting unit (10) on the lower side has a tufting plate (70) in which at least one opening (75) for guiding the yarn portion (35) is configured.
9. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tufting unit (10) has at least one needle guide (44) for guiding the tufting needle (42) or for guiding a respective tufting needle (42), wherein each needle guide (44) with the tufting needles (42) is partially movable, preferably so as to stop short of the substrate (12) or so as to stop short of the tufting plate (70).
10. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insertion element (40) during the movement thereof unwinds the yarn strands (30) from the respective yarn packages.
11. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn transport gripper (50) is mounted to as to be pivotable on a pivot point (52) .
12. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn transport gripper (50) is configured for releasing the yarn portions (35) during the insertion.
13. Tufting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cutting unit (60) is pivotably mounted, wherein the cutting unit (60) prior to a respective cutting procedure is configured for being pivoted toward the yarn strands (30), and after the cutting procedure is configured for being pivoted away from the yarn strands (30).
14. Mobile tufting machine for inserting into a substrate (12) that is situated below the tufting unit (10) respective yarn portions (35) from a yarn strand (30) that is in each case positioned and cut off by a tufting unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

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