EP4249658A1 - Tufting unit and tufting machine - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a taffeta unit for a taffeta machine, wherein a yarn transport gripper positions yarn strands which are inserted by inserting elements after they have been cut. The invention further relates to a taffeta unit with such a taffeta machine.

Description

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

Taffeta machines typically serve to insert sections of yarn strands into a substrate, whereby this is usually done in such a way that a respective part of these yarn strands is firmly incorporated into the substrate and a part protrudes upwards. This makes it possible, for example, to create artificial turf such as is used on various sports fields, such as football fields.

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

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

This is achieved according to the invention by a taffeta unit and a taffeta machine according to the respective main claims. Advantageous refinements can be found, for example, in the respective subclaims.

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

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

The taffeta unit has at least one insert element.

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 from each yarn strand assigned to an insertion element, a yarn section assigned to the respective insertion element remains.

Each insertion element is designed to insert the respectively assigned yarn section into a surface located under the taffeta unit.

The taffeta unit according to the invention has proven to be particularly reliable and not prone to failure during operation. One reason for this can be seen, for example, in the fact that the yarn feed device ensures simultaneous and parallel feeding of the yarn strands, which 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 described and/or necessary processes can be carried out completely automatically. Simple control mechanisms can be used, for example those disclosed below.

It should be understood that a taffeta unit can, for example, be the part of a taffeta machine that is specifically responsible for providing 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, further 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 using the taffeta unit.

Parallel feeding can, for example, mean that the yarn strands run parallel to one another. Simultaneous feeding can be understood in particular 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 if 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 in particular be understood as the element which ensures that yarn sections are inserted into the substrate. This can be, for example, a taffeta needle, 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 substrate.

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

According to a preferred embodiment, the yarn feed device has a plurality of rotating yarn holders. Typically, a respective yarn holder can hold and release the yarn strands. A rotating arrangement can ensure particularly simple operation, since rotating around one axis is sufficient to advance.

The yarn holders can, for example, be designed to work together in pairs, so that each strand of yarn is held by two yarn holders of a pair before cutting. This allows a certain section to be defined in the yarn strands, which lies between two yarn holders that work together in pairs. For example, the yarn strands can be cut between the yarn holders of a respective pair.

According to a 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. However, in principle any other number of pairs of yarn holders can also be used. It should also be mentioned that the yarn holders do not necessarily have to be combined into 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 strand of yarn can be gripped at a section where it is advantageously held. This avoids errors when gripping. For example, the respective yarn strand can also be pulled further by means of the yarn transport gripper, for example unwinding from a spool can also be provided.

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

The yarn holders are preferably arranged to be rotatable about a respective common axis. This allows the yarn holders to rotate particularly easily.

According to a preferred embodiment, each yarn holder has a first yarn holder plate and a second yarn holder plate, which can be displaced relative to one another in order to hold and release the yarn strands. For example, yarns can be placed between these two yarn holder plates be clamped. Yarn holders may also share yarn holder plates, for example yarn holders of a pair of yarn 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. This allows, for example, strands of yarn to be clamped between the middle and upper yarn holder plates and between the middle and lower yarn holder plates. These can be released again by moving them.

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 particularly reliable clamping of the yarn strands.

Preferably, at least one yarn holder plate is displaced relative to the other yarn holder plate by means of a closing cam and an opening cam, each of which is preferably movable by a drive, in particular by a hydraulic drive. By means of respective opening and closing curves, it can be achieved that a respective yarn holder plate is displaced solely by a movement along a path, for example along a circular path with rotating rotation, and thereby clamps or releases yarn strands at predetermined points. This does not require any further active elements, so that jamming or releasing occurs automatically. In addition, a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, can make it possible to move the closing cam and/or opening cam, which, for example, allows actuation independent of a movement along the path. This makes it possible, for example, for yarn strands to be released at a certain point in time without the yarn holder plate having to be moved further.

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

Preferably, the yarn transport gripper pulls the yarn strands through the yarn feed device during transport. This means that a corresponding feed can be achieved using the yarn transport gripper. It can also be provided that the yarn transport gripper unwinds the yarn strands from respective yarn spools during transport. As a result, a further supply of yarn can be achieved from the yarn spools provided for this purpose using the yarn transport gripper. Additional elements for unwinding or for a corresponding feed can preferably be dispensed with. However, it should be understood that, alternatively or additionally, active unwinding of yarn spools can also be provided.

According to a preferred embodiment, the taffeta unit has an input-side deflection for guiding the yarn strands in front of the yarn feed device. This makes it possible to reliably provide the yarn strands 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 moved relative to one another to cut off the yarn sections. As a result, the cutting unit can be implemented in a simple manner, with high scalability being possible in particular, i.e. a very large number of yarn strands can be cut at the same time using only one cutting knife and only one counter-knife. Alternatively, however, separate cutting tools can also be available for the respective yarn strands.

The cutting knife is preferably displaceable relative to the counter knife by means of a drive, in particular a hydraulic cylinder. This allows the cutting knife to be operated in a simple manner. However, other options for operating the cutting knife are also possible.

According to a preferred embodiment, each insertion element has a taffeta needle, which is designed to grip and insert the respective yarn section into the ground. Using such a taffeta needle, a simple insertion of the respective yarn section is possible, with the taffeta needle typically being arranged vertically and only moving one-dimensionally, in particular in the vertical direction. This allows for very simple execution. The taffeta needle can penetrate the substrate as far as necessary and then be withdrawn again. Adjustability of the desired depth can also be achieved in a simple manner.

The respective taffeta needle is preferably movable vertically and/or perpendicular to the substrate. This allows for an easy insertion movement. The direction information can refer in particular to a typical installation state in a taffeta machine moving on a surface. In particular, it can be provided that all tacking needles of the tacking unit can be moved together or uniformly.

The taffeta unit preferably has a taffeta plate on the bottom, in which at least one opening is formed for guiding the yarn section. 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, guidance of the respective taffeta needle or the insertion element can be achieved.

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 is partially movable, preferably up to the base or up to the taffeta plate. By means of such a needle guide, the taffeta needles can be stabilized and guided in a preferred manner, 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 insertion element can unwind the yarn strands from the respective yarn spools during the movement. As a result, an unwinding function can be implemented, for example, when inserting or during another movement. For example, the respective yarn strands can be held by the yarn transport gripper, with unwinding taking place by moving the respective insertion element.

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

The yarn transport gripper can, for example, be pivotally mounted at a pivot point. This makes it possible to easily operate the yarn transport gripper. For example, the actuation can be carried out by means of a movable element which engages at a point that is different from the pivot point. The yarn transport hook can can thus be pivoted and thus only carry out 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 realized.

The taffeta unit can, for example, have an actuatable rod for pivoting the yarn transport grippers. The rod can, for example, be actuated 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 realized 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 in particular be designed to hold and release the yarn strands or their free ends in order to realize the desired function. For example, a respective strand of yarn can be held for transport, whereby it can be released for insertion, for example.

The transport gripper can, for example, have 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. This allows the yarn strands to be easily clamped or released.

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

According to a preferred embodiment, the cutting unit can be pivotally mounted. This allows them to be moved into an appropriate position when necessary. With regard to the implementation and advantages of pivoting, please refer to the above comments on the yarn transport gripper.

The cutting unit can, for example, be designed 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. This makes it possible for the yarn strands to move or be pulled further independently of the cutting unit the cutting unit is only in the appropriate position when a cutting operation actually needs to be carried out.

The taffeta unit preferably has an adjusting device for the end position of the yarn transport gripper and/or the position of the cutting device. This makes it possible, for example, to determine how far the respective yarn strands are pulled by the yarn transport gripper. It can also be determined in which position the cutting device should cut the yarn strands. This allows, for example, adaptation to different uses, for example 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 penetration depth of the taffeta needles into the substrate. This makes it easy to set how far the taffeta needles should move downwards when inserted and thus it can also be determined how far each strand of yarn should be inserted into the substrate. This enables adaptation to different requirements regarding the depth at which the yarn sections should ultimately remain in the ground. Depending on how the yarn strands are cut, you can also adjust how far the yarn sections protrude from the ground after each insertion process has been completed. The depth adjustment device can be implemented, for example, as a mechanical height adjustment. For example, it can be operated manually or electrically.

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

In particular, in addition to the taffeta unit, the taffeta machine can have further components such as a frame, a chassis, a drive, a coupling for attaching to a towing vehicle, a control, an operating unit, thread spools for storing and unwinding thread strands and other components.

It can be provided that the yarn transport grippers each 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 also 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 insertion element can insert the respective yarn sections into the substrate.

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, particularly in exemplary embodiments. Show it:

Fig. 1

a taffeta unit in a first state,

Fig. 2

the taffeta unit in a second state,

Fig. 3

the taffeta unit in a third state,

Fig. 4

the taffeta unit in a fourth state,

Fig. 5

the taffeta unit in a fifth state,

Fig. 6

a part of a yarn feed device,

Fig. 7

another part of a yarn feed device,

Fig. 8

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

Fig. 9

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

Fig. 10

a cross section through parts of a yarn feed device,

Fig. 11

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

Fig. 12

the yarn holder from Fig. 11 in a second state,

Fig. 13

a transport gripper in a first state,

Fig. 14

the transport gripper Fig. 13 in a second state.

Fig. 15

a cutting unit with operating components, and

Fig. 16

the cutting unit with operating components from Fig. 15 with additional components.

In the figures, identical or corresponding elements are each designated with the same reference numerals and will therefore not be described again unless appropriate. The disclosures contained in the entire description can be applied analogously to the same parts with the same reference numbers or the same component names. The position information selected in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., is also related to the figure directly described and shown and should be transferred accordingly to the new position in the event of a change in position. Furthermore, individual features or Combinations of features from the different exemplary embodiments shown and described represent independent, inventive or inventive solutions.

Fig. 1 shows a taffeta unit 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The taffeta unit 10 is in Fig. 1 shown in a first state. The taffeta unit 10 is also in the Fig. 2 to 5 shown, with the figures each showing different states. Overall, in the Fig. 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 presented can also be viewed as an independent aspect of the invention.

The taffeta unit 10 has a yarn feed device 20. The yarn feed device has a total of six yarn holders 22, which are grouped into three pairs of two yarn holders 22 each. Two yarn holders 22 in each pair are arranged in an approximately U-shaped configuration. The pairs are labeled with numbers 1, 2, 3.

The yarn feeder 20 is designed so that it can rotate about a central axis. A drive (not shown) is used for this purpose, which can be designed electrically or mechanically, for example. When the yarn feed device 20 rotates in this way, the yarn holders 22 rotate accordingly.

A plurality of yarn strands 30 are fed to the taffeta unit 10. These yarn strands 30 are not part of the taffeta unit 10, but are used by the taffeta unit 10, i.e. cut and inserted. 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 run parallel to each other, in the view of Fig. 1 and only one strand of yarn 30 can be seen in the other figures. The further yarn strands 30 run parallel to the visible yarn strand 30 behind the paper plane.

The yarn holders 22 are each designed to either grip or release the yarn strands 30. If the yarn strands 30 are gripped by a respective yarn holder 22, this means that a movement of the respective yarn holder 22, in particular in As part of the already described rotation of the yarn feed device 20, the yarn strands 30 are taken along. This allows, for example, additional yarn to be supplied, whereby it can, for example, be unwound from corresponding spools (not shown).

In the present case, the taffeta unit 10 has a plurality of insert elements 40. A respective insertion element 40 is designed as a taffeta needle 42. The taffeta needle 42 is oriented vertically as shown. It can be moved in a 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. Each strand of yarn 30 is therefore assigned a respective taffeta needle 42. Each taffeta needle 42 basically serves to insert a respective yarn section into the substrate 12 under the taffeta unit 10. The exact functionality will be discussed in more detail below.

The taffeta unit 10 further has a needle guide 44, which is arranged so that the taffeta 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 in accordance with the intended up and down movement. This reliably prevents a temporary breakout and any associated malfunctions.

The taffeta unit 10 has a yarn transport gripper 50. The yarn transport gripper 50 is pivotally mounted about a pivot point 52. To operate the yarn transport gripper 50, the taffeta unit 10 has an actuable rod 54, which in the present case is designed to be hydraulically actuated. The operable 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 actuatable rod 54.

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

The taffeta unit 10 has a cutting unit 60. As shown, the cutting unit 60 is also designed to be pivotable, namely about a pivot axis 62. The cutting unit 60 is designed to cut off the yarn strands 30. This can be done in particular in a state which is in Fig. 3 is shown. The yarn strands 30 run through the cutting unit 60 as shown, which is why the cutting unit 60 can easily cut them off. This will be discussed in more detail below. For further process 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 corresponding positions in space.

Below the needle guide 44, the taffeta unit 10 has a taffeta plate 70. Respective openings 75 are formed in this. Each taffeta needle 42 is assigned a respective opening 75, the respective taffeta needle 42 passing through the respective opening 75 when the respective taffeta needle 42 is moved downwards. 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 inserted into the substrate 12. This reliably prevents lateral breakaways or other malfunctions.

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

In particular, the yarn transport gripper 50 was pivoted to the right, which was done by extending the operable rod 54. 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 paired yarn holders 22. The transport gripper 56 can then grip the yarn strands 30, which can be 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 be at least partially displaced relative to one another.

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

Fig. 3 shows the taffeta machine 10 in a further state after a further process 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 using the transport gripper 56. The yarn strands 30 are released from the yarn holders 22 so that the yarn transport gripper 50 can pull the yarn strands 30 from spools (not shown). The yarn strands 30 are now located at least partially below the needle guide 44. One yarn strand 30 is now assigned to a taffeta needle 42 in such a way that a yarn strand 30 is located below the respective taffeta needle 42. On the left side, the yarn strands 30 are now held by the yarn transport gripper 50. On the right side they are held by the yarn feed device 20.

To achieve the state which in Fig. 3 is shown, the yarn strands 30 were 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 rest on the needle guide 44 directly under a respective assigned taffeta needle 42.

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

The taffeta needles 42 were moved down so far that they penetrate into the subsurface 12. On the right side, the areas of the yarn strands 30, which pass under the taffeta needles 42, were cut by the cutting unit 60. On the left side, the respective free ends were released by the transport gripper 56. Thus, each taffeta needle 42 is assigned a respective yarn section 35, 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 substrate 12. It is used in such a way that part of the yarn section 35 is in the subsurface 12, but part of it protrudes upwards. Thus, the respective yarn section 35 is anchored in the subsurface 12 on the one hand, but on the other hand also has sections that protrude upwards. These can, for example, protrude 20 mm above the ground 12, although it should be mentioned that other values are also possible. This corresponds to a typical version of an artificial turf, with the upwardly protruding sections forming the visible and noticeable part of the artificial turf.

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

Fig. 6 shows part of the yarn feed device 20.

The yarn feed device 20 is rotatable about an axis 21. The yarn feed device 20 has a shaft 23 on which the yarn holders 22 already described are attached. As already with reference to Fig. 1 As has been mentioned, the yarn holders 22 are arranged in pairs, namely in three pairs. The yarn 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 side. The shaft 23 is mounted in a ball bearing 88 on the right side.

To the left of the motor 84 there is a clock wheel 86 and a sensor 87 arranged above it. The rotation of the shaft 23 can thus be monitored.

Immediately above wave 23 is in Fig. 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 moved 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 yarn holder plate 24. Thus, a movement of the guide wheel 26 is transmitted directly to the movable yarn 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 located in the in Fig. 6 shown state directly on the opening curve 80. As a result, the movable yarn holder plate 24 is controlled with respect to its horizontal movement, with the guide wheel 26 moving around the axis 21 along the opening curve 80 in accordance with the rotation of the yarn holder 22 already described. By designing the surface of the opening cam 80 facing the guide wheel 26, a horizontal movement of the guide wheel 26 and thus also a corresponding horizontal movement of the movable yarn holder plate 24 can be achieved.

As will be described in more detail below, the yarn holder 22 also has at least one fixed yarn holder plate, the movable yarn holder plate 24 being movable in particular relative to this fixed yarn holder plate. Due to the design of the two plates, strands of yarn can be clamped between the two plates. In particular, yarn strands may be pinched when the movable yarn holder plate 24 is in a state after horizontal displacement to the right. If, on the other hand, the movable yarn holder plate 24 is moved to the left, for example as just described by the opening curve 80, 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 will be discussed below with reference to Fig. 7 be described in more detail.

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

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

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

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

Fig. 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 yarn holders 22 in pairs in a respective U-shape can be clearly seen. You can also see how they are structured internally.

Two fixed yarn 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 is designed to be horizontally movable. Through the already described, in Fig. 8 Invisible configuration of the yarn holder plates 24, 27, yarn strands 30 can be clamped or released between these two yarn holder plates 24, 27. Clamping makes it possible, in particular, for the corresponding yarn strands 30 to be taken along by rotating the yarn feed device 20.

Fig. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the yarn feed device 20. In contrast to the previously described embodiment, not six, but a total of eight yarn holders 22 are provided, which are also arranged in pairs to each other in a respective U-shape. There are therefore a total of four pairs of yarn holders 22. Otherwise, please refer to the description already provided regarding the functionality and the specific design. Three of the pairs of yarn holders 22 are in Fig. 9 only shown schematically.

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

Fig. 11 shows schematically a yarn holder 22 in an alternative embodiment. Not only is one movable yarn holder plate 24 provided, but rather two movable yarn holder plates 24 are provided. These are moved coupled with each other.

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

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

Fig. 12 In contrast, shows a state in which the movable yarn holder plates 24 have been shifted to the right. It can be seen that the yarn strands 30 were clamped between the movable yarn holder plates 24 and the fixed yarn holder plates 27.

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

The Fig. 13 and 14 separately show the transport gripper 56 with continuous yarn strands 30. Fig. 13 shows an open state in which the yarn strands 30 can be freely moved along their respective longitudinal direction. Fig. 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 relative to 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 in the in Fig. 13 shown state are freely movable along their respective longitudinal direction. If the first transport gripper plate 58 is moved to the right relative to the fixed second transport gripper plate 59, the yarn strands 30 are clamped between the two transport gripper plates 58, 59. This is in Fig. 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, for example, to also unwind new yarn from the respective yarn spools. If yarn sections are to be used afterwards, the in Fig. 13 Open state shown can be assumed.

Fig. 15 shows a sectional view through 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 knobbed wheel 28 is applied to the shaft 23 and is connected to the shaft 23 in a rotationally fixed manner. The knobbed wheel therefore basically rotates with the shaft 23. Three recesses 29 are formed in the knobbed wheel 28, into which the further ball bearing 64 can engage, as shown, when the knobbed wheel 28 is in corresponding rotational positions.

If the further 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, the knobbed wheel 28 also continues to rotate and thus pushes the additional ball bearing 64 outwards. As a result, the cutting unit 60 is pivoted outwards so that it is spaced from the yarn strands 30. This allows, for example, the yarn strands 30 to be pulled further.

Through the in Fig. 15 In the implementation shown, the shaft 23 automatically ensures the correct pivoting position of the cutting unit 60 via the knobbed wheel 28 and the further ball bearing 64.

Fig. 16 shows another sectional view, in addition to those in Fig. 15 The opening curve 80 can be seen in the components shown. 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. In one possible embodiment, the taffeta needles 42 then move downwards. The closing cam 82 can then be actuated and the opening cam 80 can thus be retracted. When 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 accommodate the yarn strands 30 again, the yarn holders 22 are opened again before driving past the deflection 37. This is done by two ball bearings below the opening cam 80. When approaching the closing cam 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 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,
• ▪ Moving the cutting element into a cutting position,
• ▪ Cutting the yarn strands, thereby creating yarn sections,
• ▪ releasing the yarn sections,
• ▪ Inserting the yarn sections using a respective inserting element.

This process sequence can be understood as an independent aspect of the invention.

Possible features of the proposal are presented in a structured manner below. The following structured features can be combined with one another as desired and can be included in the claims of the application in any combination. It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the invention results from the object with the fewest features. In particular, the following are advantageous or possible embodiments, but not the only possible embodiments of the invention.

• ▪ eine Garnzuführeinrichtung (20) zum simultanen und parallelen Zuführen einer Anzahl von Garnsträngen (30),
• ▪ mindestens ein Einsetzelement (40),
• ▪ einen Garntransportgreifer (50), welcher dazu ausgebildet ist, ein jeweiliges freies Ende der Garnstränge (30) von der Garnzuführeinrichtung (20) weg zu transportieren, so dass jedem Einsetzelement (40) jeweils ein Garnstrang (30) zugeordnet ist,
• ▪ eine Schneideinheit (60), welche dazu ausgebildet ist, die Garnstränge (30) zu zerschneiden, so dass von jedem einem Einsetzelement (40) zugeordneten Garnstrang (30) ein dem jeweiligen Einsetzelement (40) zugeordneter Garnabschnitt (35) verbleibt,
• ▪ wobei jedes Einsetzelement (40) dazu ausgebildet ist, den jeweils zugeordneten Garnabschnitt (35) in einen unter der Tafteinheit (10) befindlichen Untergrund (12) einzusetzen.

The invention includes:
A taffeta unit for a taffeta machine, the taffeta unit (10) having the following:

• ▪ a yarn feed device (20) for simultaneous and parallel feeding of a number of yarn strands (30),
• ▪ at least one insert element (40),
• ▪ a yarn transport gripper (50), which is designed to transport a respective free end of the yarn strands (30) away from the yarn feed device (20), so that each insertion element (40) is assigned a yarn strand (30),
• ▪ a cutting unit (60), which is designed to cut the yarn strands (30), so that from each yarn strand (30) assigned to an insertion element (40), a yarn section (35) assigned to the respective insertion element (40) remains,
• ▪ wherein each insertion element (40) is designed to insert the respectively assigned yarn section (35) into a substrate (12) located under the taffeta unit (10).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn feeder (20) has a plurality of rotating yarn holders (22).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn holders (22) are each designed to cooperate in pairs, so that each yarn strand (30) is held by two yarn holders (22) of a pair before cutting.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn feeder (20) has three or four pairs of yarn holders (22).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn transport gripper (50) is designed to grip respective end sections of the yarn strands (30) which are clamped between two yarn holders (22) of a pair in order to grip the free ends of the yarn strands (30).

The above-mentioned tacking unit, wherein the yarn feed device (20) is designed to further rotate and/or advance the yarn holders (22) before each tacking process in order to provide new end sections of the yarn strands for gripping by the yarn transport grippers (50).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn holders (22) are arranged to be rotatable about a common axis (21).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein each yarn holder (22) has a first yarn holder plate (24, 27) and a second yarn holder plate (24, 27), which are displaceable relative to one another for holding and releasing the yarn strands (30).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein each yarn holder (22) has at least one upper, a middle and a lower yarn holder plate (24, 27) and the middle yarn holder plate (24) is supported by a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, against the other two yarn holder plates for holding and Loosening the yarn strands (30) can be moved.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein each yarn holder has at least a first, a second, a third and a fourth yarn holder plate (24, 27) and the second and fourth yarn holder plates (24) are counteracted by a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, against the other two yarn holder plates ( 27) can be moved to hold and release the yarn strands (30).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein at least one yarn holder plate (24) is displaced relative to the other yarn holder plate (27) by means of a closing cam (82) and an opening cam (80), each movable by a drive (90), in particular by a hydraulic drive.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn feed device (20) releases the yarn strands (30) during transport.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn transport gripper (50) pulls the yarn strands (30) through the yarn feed device (20) during transport and/or unwinds them from respective yarn spools.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the taffeta unit (10) has an input-side deflection (37) for guiding the yarn strands (30) in front of the yarn feed device (20).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the cutting unit (60) has a cutting knife and a counter knife, which can be displaced relative to one another in order to cut off the yarn sections (35).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the cutting knife can be displaced relative to the counter knife by means of a drive, in particular a hydraulic cylinder.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein each insertion element (40) has a taffeta needle (42) which is designed to grip and insert the respective yarn section (35) into the substrate (12).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the respective taffeta needle (42) can be moved vertically and/or perpendicular to the base (12).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the taffeta unit (10) has a taffeta plate (70) on the bottom, in which at least one opening (75) is formed for guiding the yarn section (35).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the taffeta unit (10) has at least one needle guide (44) for guiding the taffeta needles (42) or for guiding a respective taffeta needle (42), each needle guide (44) being partially movable with the taffeta needles (42). , preferably up to the subsurface or up to the taffeta panel (70).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the insertion element (40), in particular the taffeta needles (42), unwinds the yarn strands (30) from respective yarn spools during their movement.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn transport gripper (50) is pivotally mounted on a pivot point (52).

The above-mentioned tacking unit, wherein the tacking unit (10) has an actuatable rod (54) for pivoting the yarn transport grippers (50).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the rod (54) can be actuated hydraulically or by a crank drive.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn transport gripper (50) has a transport gripper (56) for gripping the free ends of the yarn strands (30).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the transport gripper (56) has a first transport gripper plate (58) and a second transport gripper plate (59), which can be displaced relative to one another, in particular by a hydraulic drive, for gripping and releasing the free ends.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the yarn transport gripper (50) is designed to release the yarn sections (35) during insertion.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the cutting unit (60) is pivotally mounted.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, wherein the cutting unit (60) is designed to be pivoted towards the yarn strands (30) before a respective cutting process and to be pivoted away from the yarn strands (30) after the cutting process.

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, further comprising an adjusting device for the end position of the yarn transport attacker (50) and/or the position of the cutting unit (60).

The above-mentioned taffeta unit, further comprising a depth adjustment device for the penetration depth of the taffeta needles into the substrate.

A taffeta machine for inserting yarn sections positioned and cut off from one strand of yarn (30) by a taffeta unit (10), in particular as mentioned above, into a substrate (12) located under the taffeta unit (10).

A taffeta machine with a taffeta unit as mentioned above.

The above-mentioned taffeta machine, wherein the yarn transport grippers (50) each transport the end sections of the yarns held by the yarn feed device (20) away from the yarn feed device (20), preferably in an alternating pivoting movement, the yarn transport grippers (50) each transporting the respective yarn strand to an inserting element (40 ) is assigned and positioned and, after the cutting unit (60) has cut off the respective yarn sections (35) from the respective yarn strands (30), the insertion element (40) inserts the respective yarn sections (35) into the substrate (12).

The claims submitted now with the application and later are without prejudice to the achievement of further protection.

If a closer examination, especially of the relevant prior art, should reveal that one or the other feature is favorable for the aim of the invention, but is not crucially important, then of course a formulation is now being sought that includes such a feature , especially in the main claim, no longer has. Such a subcombination is also covered by the disclosure of this application.

It should also be noted that the configurations and variants of the invention described in the various embodiments and shown in the figures can be combined with one another as desired. Individual or several features can be interchanged with each other as desired. These combinations of features are also disclosed.

The relationships stated in the dependent claims indicate the further development of the subject matter of the main claim through the features of the respective subclaim. However, these should not be understood as a waiver of the achievement of independent, objective protection for the features of the related subclaims.

Features that were only disclosed in the description or individual features from claims that include a plurality of features can be incorporated into the independent claim(s) at any time as being of essential importance to the invention in order to differentiate them from the prior art, even if if such characteristics were mentioned in connection with other characteristics or achieved particularly favorable results in connection with other characteristics.
The invention is not limited to one of the previously described embodiments, but can be modified in many ways.

Claims (15)

Taffeta unit for a taffeta machine, the taffeta unit (10) having the following: ▪ a yarn feed device (20) for simultaneous and parallel feeding of a number of yarn strands (30), ▪ at least one insert element (40), ▪ a yarn transport gripper (50), which is designed to transport a respective free end of the yarn strands (30) away from the yarn feed device (20), so that each insertion element (40) is assigned a yarn strand (30), ▪ a cutting unit (60), which is designed to cut the yarn strands (30), so that from each yarn strand (30) assigned to an insertion element (40), a yarn section (35) assigned to the respective insertion element (40) remains, ▪ wherein each insertion element (40) is designed to insert the respectively assigned yarn section (35) into a substrate (12) located under the taffeta unit (10). Taffeta unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the yarn feed device (20) has a plurality of rotating yarn holders (22). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn holders (22) are each designed to work together in pairs, so that each yarn strand (30) is held by two yarn holders (22) of a pair before cutting. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn feed device (20) is designed to further rotate and/or advance the yarn holders (22) before each taffeta process in order to provide new end sections of the yarn strands for gripping by the yarn transport grippers (50). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn holders (22) are arranged rotatably about a common axis (21). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one yarn holder plate (24) is moved relative to the other yarn holder plate (27) by means of a closing cam (82) and an opening cam (80), each movable by a drive (90), in particular by a hydraulic drive. is postponed. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn feed device (20) releases the yarn strands (30) during transport, and/or the yarn transport gripper (50) pulls the yarn strands (30) through the yarn feed device (20) during transport and /or unwound from respective yarn spools. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each insertion element (40) has a taffeta needle (42) which is designed to grip and insert the respective yarn section (35) into the base (12). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the taffeta unit (10) has a taffeta plate (70) on the bottom, in which at least one opening (75) is formed for guiding the yarn section (35). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the taffeta unit (10) has at least one needle guide (44) for guiding the taffeta needles (42) or for guiding a respective taffeta needle (42), each needle guide (44) being connected to the taffeta needles ( 42) is partially movable, preferably up to the base (12) or up to the taffeta plate (70). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insertion element (40), in particular the taffeta needles (42), unwinds the yarn strands (30) from the respective yarn spools during their movement. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn transport gripper (50) is pivotally mounted at a pivot point (52). Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn transport gripper (50) is designed to release the yarn sections (35) during insertion. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cutting unit (60) is pivotally mounted, the cutting unit (60) being designed to be pivoted towards the yarn strands (30) before a respective cutting process and after the cutting process the yarn strands (30) is pivoted away. Taffeta machine for inserting yarn sections positioned and cut from one strand of yarn (30) by a taffeta unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims into a substrate (12) located under the taffeta unit (10).

Images