EP4689260A1 - Machine for making interlaced chains with a ribbon - Google Patents

Abstract

A machine (1) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) in a wavy pattern, comprises: - a controlled advancement system (10) of the chain (C) adapted to translate the chain (C) in a horizontal plane (X, Y) at predetermined steps to position the links (M) of the chain (C) in the processing zone; - an inserting system (20) of the ribbon (N), comprising a clamping block (22) adapted to translate in a vertical direction (Z), orthogonal to the horizontal plane (X, Y) and provided with a first gripper (23) and a second gripper (24), wherein said grippers (23, 24) are adapted to grasp and clamp a rigid guiding element (G, GA) provided at a first terminal end (N1) of the ribbon (N) and guide or lead it cyclically through the links (M) of the chain (C); and - a leading system (30) of the ribbon (N), comprising two arms (32,33) arranged on opposite sides relative to the horizontal plane (X, Y) of the controlled advancement system (10) on which the chain (C) is laid, adapted to translate obliquely, and wherein each arm (32, 33) is provided with a finger-like end (P1, P2), adapted to engage with the ribbon (N) to make it slide and lead it so as to complete the insertion of the ribbon (N) into the link (M) of the chain (C) after the passage of the rigid guiding element (G, GA).

Description

"MACHINE FOR MAKING INTERLACED CHAINS WITH A RIBBON"

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FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of fashion accessories, and more in particular to the field of chains and chainlets with a ribbon interlaced in the links.

In more detail, the invention relates to a machine and process for interlacing a ribbon or webbing within the links or loops of a chain in a wavy pattern.

BACKGROUND ART

In the prior art, it is known to make ornamental chains with ribbons interlaced within (see Figure 1 ) to be used to embellish fashion accessories, e.g., such as handbags, shoes, and clothing.

In particular, handbags are known which have handles and shoulder straps made of chains with a ribbon, e.g., made of leather, imitation leather, or fabric, interlaced inside.

At present, the operation of inserting the ribbon into the chain is mainly manually done and is performed by skilled craftsmen.

Of course, this operation requires a great deal of time and skilled labor to ensure that the final work is perfect and free of damaged parts.

European patent application EP2995707A1 describes a machine for threading webbing within the links of a chain in a wavy pattern. However, this solution has some disadvantages highlighted below.

In this suggested solution, the chain is translated by means of a gripper which tightens, in successive steps, the chain itself with the flexible material or webbing already inserted in the chain. This mode may cause initial stress to the flexible material, possibly deteriorating or damaging it. Furthermore, the flexible material is inserted within the chain links by means of a punch and this necessarily implies a second stress to which the material is subjected. Indeed, the small hole size of each chain link compared to the thickness of the inserted material, which at that step is double, given the insertion mode, must be considered. In the next step in which the webbing is pulled as long as the free end passes through the loop, the element designed for this function, being studied only to pull the webbing, cannot provide proper tensioning of the webbing. This affects the final result, which does not make it possible to obtain a high-quality product. Finally, since the end of the webbing to be inserted is free, there is no control over the positioning and, in particular, at each successive insertion it is not possible to check that the webbing is correctly positioned relative to the hole through which it must pass. As a result, it may be misaligned relative to the punch, which may not engage it, or engage it incorrectly damaging it or inserting it rotated.

As a result, at present, a solution to achieve the necessary production speed with a technique capable of overcoming the problems of lack of accuracy and quality problems outlined above has not yet been studied.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is the purpose of the present invention to automate the process of inserting a ribbon within a chain. It is a further purpose to speed up the step of making chains with interlaced ribbons or webbing.

It is a further purpose of the present invention to obtain a machine which makes it possible to produce chains with interlaced ribbons, in which the product produced is of high quality and without inaccuracies.

Naturally, it is a further object of the present invention to make a machine which allows ribbons to be inserted within chains in such a way as to reduce the use of skilled craftsmen for this operation.

These and other purposes, which will be more apparent below, are achieved by a machine for threading a ribbon or webbing within the links or loops of a chain in a wavy pattern as defined in claim 1 .

Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a method for interlacing a ribbon within the links of a chain in a wavy pattern.

The present invention relates to a machine for interlacing a ribbon within the links of a chain in a wavy pattern; the machine comprises a controlled chain advancement system adapted to translate the chain in a horizontal plane at predetermined steps to position the links of the chain in the processing zone; a ribbon inserting system, comprising a clamping block adapted to translate in a vertical direction, orthogonal to the horizontal plane, and provided with a first gripper and a second gripper. The grippers are adapted to grasp and clamp a rigid guiding element provided at a first terminal end portion of the ribbon and guide or lead it cyclically through the links of the chain, and a ribbon leading system, comprising two arms arranged on opposite sides relative to the horizontal plane of the controlled advancement system on which the chain is laid, adapted to translate obliquely, and in which each arm is provided with a finger-like end, adapted to engage with the ribbon to make it slide and lead it so as to complete the insertion of the ribbon into the link of the chain after the passage of the rigid guiding element.

In some embodiments, the controlled advancement system provides an advancement surface, preferably horizontal, on which the chain is arranged and linearly moved along the longitudinal axis by means of a carriage which carries two arms provided with respective hooks which allow the correct positioning of the link on the vertical axis of the clamping block.

Alternatively, the movement of the chain is controlled by a photocell which allows the correct positioning of the link on the vertical axis of the clamping block.

The ribbon inserting system comprises a clamping block adapted to translate in a vertical direction on a guiding rail, in which said clamping block comprises a first gripper and a second gripper adapted to grip and clamp the rigid guiding element.

The first gripper and the second gripper comprise respective jaws, and the movement of the grippers is activated by a pneumatic piston, which either pushes or pulls the jaws to bring them to the two open or closed positions by means of the rotation of two toothed wheels.

The ribbon leading system comprises two arms arranged on opposite sides relative to the plane of the controlled advancement system, wherein said arms are each adapted to translate obliquely on a respective guiding rail.

Each arm is provided with a finger-like end adapted to engage with the ribbon. In preferred embodiments, the finger-like end is an extractable pin and is provided with small holes to create an air cushion to minimize frictions between the ribbon and the finger-like end. Alternatively the finger-like end is an extractable pin and is provided with needle or ball bearings.

Preferably, there is also a counter-finger which is used to constrain the ribbon and prevent it from twisting.

The present invention further relates to a method for interlacing a ribbon within the links of a chain in a wavy pattern, which comprises the following steps: a) preparing the ribbon with a rigid guiding element at a first end, b) setting up a controlled advancement system of the chain, c) setting up a ribbon inserting system, d) setting up a double ribbon leading system, e) positioning, by means of said controlled advancement system, the chain so that the link to be processed is at the vertical axis of the inserting system, f) grasping, with the inserting system, the rigid guiding element in a portion of space which is below, or respectively above, the controlled advancement system of the chain, g) completing the insertion of the rigid guiding element into the link and leading the ribbon through the link being processed; h) operating the inserting system to travel along a guiding rail in a direction adapted to insert the ribbon within the link being processed, moving in a vertical direction from the bottom upwards, or from top downwards, respectively, through the link being processed; i) continuing with the movement of the inserting system up to the limit stop of the guiding rail, j) flipping the inserting system by 180 degrees, keeping the ribbon taut and perpendicular to the chain; k) operating the ribbon leading system which is on the same side of the inserting system with respect to the chain to run a guiding rail in the approaching direction of the ribbon, l) grasping the ribbon with the leading system to keep it taut, m) operating the leading system to travel along the guiding rail again to return to the initial position bringing the ribbon behind, so as to make the ribbon slide further through the link being processed as long as said ribbon provides enough tension to stop the sliding of the leading system, and n) repeating steps e) to m) for all links of the chain.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention are described below, and distinctive features are given in the following claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent from the description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment shown by way of indicative and non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows an example of a chain with a leather ribbon interlaced between the links,

Figure 2 shows an example of a leather ribbon,

Figures 3a and 3b show examples of a leather ribbon prepared for processing with the machine according to the invention,

Figure 4 shows an example of a chain to be processed,

Figures 5a and 5b show perspective views of the machine according to the present invention,

Figure 6 and 7 show perspective views of the details of the machine base according to the present invention,

Figures 8-11 show details of the inserting system,

Figures 12-17 show details of the leading system,

Figures 18-35 show some processing steps of the method according to the invention.

The parts according to the present description are shown in the drawings, where suitable, employing conventional symbols, showing only the specific details which are pertinent to the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, so as not to highlight details which will be immediately apparent to the person skilled in the art, with reference to the description provided below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of fashion accessories, e.g., such as belts, sandals, shoes, handbags or purses which have handles and shoulder straps with chain elements interlaced with a ribbon or webbing made of textile, leather, or synthetic materials, such as eco-leather. The ribbon is interlaced into the chain links.

Of course, these chain elements interlaced with ribbon can also be used as decorations in garments, e.g., such as neckline edging on sweaters, tops, sweaters, or outerwear, such as jackets, parkas, or coats. More in particular, the invention relates to a machine for threading a ribbon or webbing within the links or loops of a chain in a wavy pattern.

Figure 1 shows a piece of the chain C with a leather ribbon N interlaced between the chain links.

With reference to the Figures, a machine for inserting a ribbon or webbing within the links or loops of a chain in a wavy pattern is indicated by reference numeral 1 as a whole.

The operation of machine 1 for inserting a ribbon N or webbing into a chain C is described with the help of the Figures.

The chain being processed is indicated as a whole by the letter C, while a link in the chain C is indicated as a whole by the letter M.

The chain C consists of a succession of closed or decomposable rings A, connected to each other with a possibility of relative movement. Each ring A defines a link M of the chain C.

The chain C displays a substantially longitudinal extension, i.e. , a length LC and a width LLC, which may be variable depending on the use of the finished product. Furthermore, the chain C also has a thickness SC, which is negligible compared to the length LC.

The width LLC of the chain C is given by the outer diameter of each individual ring A or link M and of the chain C. Each link M has a through hole within which has a diameter DC.

The ribbon or webbing, which may be of any flexible, non-rigid material, e.g., such as leather, hide, imitation leather, eco-leather, textile, nonwoven fabric, cord, synthetic materials, etc., is indicated by the letter N as a whole.

The ribbon N is an element that has two free ends N1 and N2 and has a substantially longitudinal extension with a length LN, a width LLN, and a thickness SN negligible compared to the length LN.

Before the processing operations begin, the ribbon N is prepared for use with the machine 1.

In particular, in a first embodiment, a first free end N1 is coated with a metal layer (e.g. making a substantially flat banding made with a brass foil) to make a rigid element which is used as a guiding element G for the insertion of the ribbon N into the links M of the chain C. In particular, the guiding element G has a substantially flat shape to facilitate the interaction with the grippers of the machine and as a matter of proper orientation (if it were cylindrical, it would be more difficult to position in order to avoi d the twisting of the ribbon).

In greater detail, the rigid guiding element G is made by covering the first free end N1 of the web N for an appropriate length, so that the rigid guiding element G can cooperate with machine elements (grippers) for inserting the web N into the chain C. In particular, the maximum width clearance of the rigid guiding element G must be such to facilitate the insertion and sliding of the ribbon N within the links M of the chain. Therefore, this diameter will be slightly smaller than the inner diameter DC of each link M to facilitate insertion and sliding.

Said rigid guiding element G for the insertion of the ribbon N performs the function of a needle to facilitate the insertion of the ribbon N into the chain C.

During processing, the rigid element G guides the insertion operations of the ribbon N into the chain C.

In an alternative embodiment, the guiding element is a real needle GA provided with an eye GAC into which the ribbon N can be threaded. The needle GA, which makes the rigid guiding element G for inserting the ribbon N into the chain C, is substantially flat in shape to facilitate the interaction with the machine grippers and as a matter of proper orientation (if it were cylindrical, it would be more difficult to position in order to avoid the twisting of the ribbon). In particular, the first free N1 end of the ribbon N is threaded through the eye GAC and is folded back and locked in place, e.g., with double-sided ribbon, with glue, or secured with adhesive ribbon, or locked with a fastening element.

In particular, the width LLN of the ribbon N is chosen so that the ribbon N fills the link M of the chain C and remains taut.

In particular, the ribbon N has a width LLN adapted to be received within the link M of the chain C and, in particular, has a width corresponding to or slightly larger than the width of each through-hole of the chain C which has a diameter DC, so that it can be inserted within the links M of the chain C. In detail, the width LLN of the ribbon N corresponds to, or is slightly larger than the inner diameter DC of the link M.

In addition, also in the preparation stage of the ribbon N, the end of the ribbon N opposite to the rigid guiding element G or GA, and indicated by reference N2, is knotted or blocked in some way (with a retaining element F) to prevent it from passing through the link M. In this manner, a limit stop element is created with prevents the ribbon N from slipping out or passing past the chain C.

In alternative embodiments, the end N2 can already be constrained to the chain to prevent its escape during subsequent processing steps.

The machine 1 for inserting the ribbon N into the links M of a chain C is substantially and diagram matically illustrated by means of three main components:

- a controlled advancement system 10 of the chain C adapted to translate the chain C horizontally at predetermined steps to position the links M of the chain C in the processing zone;

- an inserting system 20 of the ribbon N, comprising a clamping block 22 adapted to translate in a vertical direction Z and provided with a first gripper 23 and a second gripper 24, in which the grippers 23,24 are adapted to grasp and clamp a rigid guiding element G or GA provided at the first terminal end N1 of the ribbon N and guide or lead it cyclically through the links M of the chain C;

- a leading system 30 of the ribbon N, comprising two arms 32 and 33 arranged on opposite sides relative to the controlled advancement system 10 on which the chain C is laid, adapted to translate obliquely, and in which each arm is provided with a finger-like end, adapted to engage with the ribbon N to make it slide and lead it so as to complete the insertion of the ribbon N into the link M of the chain C after the passage of the rigid guiding element G or GA.

The method for interlacing a ribbon N within the links M of a chain C in a wavy pattern comprises the following steps: a) preparing the ribbon N with a rigid guiding element G or GA, b) setting up a controlled advancement system 10 of the chain C, c) setting up an inserting system 20 of the ribbon N, d) setting up a leading system 30 of the ribbon N, e) positioning, by means of said controlled advancement system 10, the chain C so that the link Mi to be processed is at the vertical axis Z of the inserting system 20, f) grasping, with the inserting system 20, the rigid guiding element G or GA in a portion of space which is below, or respectively above, the controlled advancement system 10 of the chain C, g) completing the insertion of the rigid guiding element G or GA into the link Mi and leading the ribbon N through the link Mi being processed; h) operating the inserting system 20 to travel along a guiding rail BGI in a direction adapted to insert the ribbon N within the link Mi being processed, moving in a vertical direction from bottom upwards, or from top downwards, respectively, through the link Mi being processed; i) continuing with the movement of the inserting system 20 up to the limit stop of the guiding rail BGI, j) flipping the inserting system 20 by 180 degrees, keeping the ribbon N taut and perpendicular to the chain C; k) operating the leading system 30 of the ribbon N which is on the same side of the inserting system 20 with respect to the chain C to run a guiding rail BGC in the approaching direction of the ribbon N, l) grasping the ribbon N with the leading system 30 to keep it taut, m) operating the leading system 30 to travel along the guiding rail BGC again to return to the initial position bringing the ribbon N behind, so as to make the ribbon N slide further through the link Mi being processed as long as said ribbon N provides enough tension to stop the sliding of the leading system 30, and n) repeating steps e) to m) for all links Mi+1 of the chain C.

Again, with reference to Figures 18-35, the operation steps of machine 1 referred to the preferred embodiment are described in greater detail.

References were not added in some of the Figures to avoid overburdening them.

In particular, a complete processing cycle involves the following steps:

- a first step is performed by the inserting system 20 when the chain C is stopped in the processing position. In this first step, the chain C is positioned so that the first link M1 is at the insertion region; the double gripper 23 and 24 of the clamping block 22 engages with the rigid guiding element G or GA at the first terminal end N1 of the ribbon N, i.e., both grippers 23 and 24 grasp the rigid guiding element G or GA in a portion of space which is below the controlled advancement system 10 of the chain C and lead it in the movement, moving in a vertical direction from bottom upwards (as shown in the Figures), through the first link M1 of the chain C located at the vertical axis of the clamping block 22; the ribbon N, as mentioned earlier, may have a retaining element F or limit stop which locks the second end N2 and prevents the ribbon N from slipping out of the first link M1 of the chain C; in some variants for processing requirements, the ribbon N is free and is held in place by a blocking element present in the machine, or already constrained to the chain (e.g., it is sewn to the first link M1 );

- a second step begins when the first terminal end N1 of the ribbon N has been introduced by virtue of the rigid guiding element G or GA into the first M1 link of the chain C, and the first gripper 23, closest to the chain C, releases its grip on the rigid guiding element G or GA (see Figure 18), and the two jaws 23a and 23b are opened and retracted toward the guiding rail so as not to interfere with the chain C itself during the vertical motion of the first gripper 23 along the axis Z, while the second gripper 24 continues to be closed and continues its motion in a vertical direction from the bottom upwards to complete the insertion of the rigid guiding element G or GA into the first link M1 of the chain C;

- a third step, in which, when the first gripper 23 has passed beyond the chain C, i.e., is above the controlled advancement system 10 and above the chain C, it is closed again (see Figure 19) extracting the two jaws 23a and 23b to grasp the rigid guiding element G or GA set up at the first terminal end N1 of the ribbon N again;

- a fourth step, in which the second gripper 24 releases its grip on the rigid guiding element G or GA (see Figure 20), and the two jaws 24a and 24b are opened and retracted toward the guiding rail so as not to interfere with the chain C itself during the vertical motion of the second gripper 24 in Z, while the first gripper 23 continues its motion in the vertical direction Z from the bottom upwards to continue the insertion of the ribbon N into the first link M1 of the chain C;

- a fifth step, in which, when the second gripper 24 has also passed beyond the chain C, it is closed again (see Figure 21 ) extracting the two jaws 24a and 24b to grasp the ribbon N one more time in the portion involving the rigid guiding element G or GA;

- a sixth step, in which the block of the inserting system 20, having reached the limit stop on its rail, flips 180 degrees (see Figures 22 and 23), keeping the ribbon N taut and perpendicular to the chain C;

- a seventh step begins when a first arm 32 of the leading system 30 of the ribbon N (i.e., the arm that is on the same side of the clamping block 22 of the inserting system 20 with respect to chain C) runs along its rail toward chain C until it engages with the ribbon N by means of a extractable pin P1 that, as a finger, grasps the tensioned ribbon N (see Figures 24 and 25) and then runs along its rail again to return to its initial position bringing the ribbon N behind it so that the ribbon N further runs through the first link M1 of the chain C until it brings the opposite end N2 (and the stop element F) to the limit stop position; in subsequent cycles, the limit stop element is given by the ribbon N itself, which, once taut, it provides enough tension to stop the sliding of the arm 32;

- an eighth step, in which the chain C translates so as to bring the second link M2, adjacent to and subsequent to the first link M1 , to the vertical axis Z of the clamping block 20; - a ninth step is performed by the inserting system 20 when the chain C is stopped in the processing position so that the second link M2 is at the insertion region; the double gripper 23 and 24 of the clamping block 22 is still engaged with the rigid guiding element G or GA and leads it in the movement, moving in the vertical direction, this time from the top downwards (as shown in Figure 26), through the second link M2 of the chain C located at the vertical axis of the clamping block 22;

- a ninth step begins when the first terminal end N1 of the ribbon N has been introduced by virtue of the rigid guiding element G or GA into the second link M2 of the chain C, and the first gripper 23, closest to the chain C, leaves its grip on the rigid guiding element G or GA (see Figure 27), and the two jaws 23a and 23b are opened and retracted toward the guiding rail so as not to interfere with the chain C itself during the vertical motion of the first gripper 23 along the axis Z, while the second gripper 24 continues to be closed and continues its motion in a vertical direction to complete the insertion of the rigid guiding element G or GA into the second link M2 of the chain C;

- an eleventh step, in which, when the first gripper 23 has passed beyond the chain C, i.e. , it is under the chain C and under the controlled advancement system 10, it is again closed extracting the two jaws 23a and 23b to grasp the rigid guiding element G or GA arranged at the first terminal end N1 of the ribbon N once more;

- a twelfth step, in which the second gripper 24 releases its grip on the rigid guiding element G or GA (see Figure 28), and the two jaws 24a and 24b are opened and retracted toward the guiding rail so as not to interfere with the chain C itself during the vertical motion of the second gripper 24 in Z, while the first gripper 23 continues its motion in the vertical Z direction to continue the insertion of the ribbon N into the second link M2 of the chain C;

- a thirteenth step, in which, when the second gripper 24 has also passed the chain C, i.e., is below the chain C and under the controlled advancement system 10, it is closed again extracting the two jaws 24a and 24b to grasp the ribbon N in the portion which has the rigid guiding element G or GA once more;

- a fourteenth step, in which the block of the inserting system 20, having reached the limit stop on its rail, flips 180 degrees, keeping the ribbon N taut and perpendicular to the chain C;

- a fifteenth step, in which the second arm 33 of the ribbon N leading system 30 (i.e., the arm that is on the same side of the clamping block 22 of the inserting system 20 with respect to chain C) travels on its rail toward the chain C until it engages the taut ribbon N by means of an extractable pin P2; in this step, when the second arm 33 begins its return travel, the first arm 32 also travels its rail again to approach the chain C; when the first arm 32 reaches the limit stop, the first extractable pin P1 is retracted and disengages the ribbon N, which is free to continue its travel and go tautly over chain C; the second arm 33 then travels back along its rail to return to its initial position to further make the ribbon N slide through the second link M2 of the chain C until the ribbon N is brought taut so that it is correctly inserted into the second link M2 (see Figure 29); in this manner, the slot of ribbon N which had been created is retracted toward chain C and forms the stretch or arc Nx of the ribbon N which is interlaced with the two links M1 and M2;

- a sixteenth step, in which the chain C translates so as to take the third link M3, adjacent to and following the second link M2, to the vertical axis Z of the clamping block 20.

The complete cycle returns the machine 1 to the same initial position. In particular, the only difference is that the chain C was advanced and at the end of each processing cycle by two links.

In a preferred embodiment, two or four idler rollers RR can be provided during the steps of pulling of the ribbon N (the seventh step and the fifteenth step), which intervene in an active position at the height of the chain C precisely during the steps of pulling the ribbon N and return to a retracted resting position during the step when the rigid guiding element G or GA, with which the ribbon N is provided, is passed through the chain C.

In some embodiments (as shown in Figures 32 and 33), two idler rollers RR can be provided, which in operation are positioned above (or alternatively below) the inserting system 20 and which act above (or alternatively below) the plane of the controlled advancement system 10. Alternatively, in other embodiments (as shown in Figures 34 and 35), four return rollers divided into two pairs RR1 and RR2 can be provided.

Each pair RR1 and RR2 comprises a first roller RRa and a second roller RRb.

Each roller RRa is placed above and each roller RRb is placed below the inserting system 20. In particular, the return rollers RRa and RRb of each pair RR1 and RR2 are spaced from each other so that they operate at the same time above and below the plane of the controlled advancement system 10.

Figures 32 and 34 show the four idler rollers RR in their advanced, active position in which they cooperate with the ribbon N to keep it away from the edges of the M link of the chain C. In this position, the idler rollers RR are close to each other.

Figures 33 and 35 show the four idler rollers RR in their retracted and resting position, in which they are retracted and do not enter into contact with the ribbon N. In this position, the idler rollers RR are far apart.

Referring to Figures 34 and 35, the four idler rollers RR are mounted in pairs RR1 and RR2 on vertical plates which by means of movement systems move the four idler rollers RR between their advanced, active position and their retracted, resting position.

These movement systems are quite similar to the jaw movement systems 23 and 24 which will be described below.

These idle rollers RR are used to move the ribbon N away from the edges of the link M of the chain C to reduce rubbing and wear of the ribbon N, which must run within the links Mi of the chain C several times.

Again, these idle rollers RR may or may not be used, depending on the type of ribbon N used. Furthermore, in the cycles following each change in the direction of controlled advancement of the clamping block 22, one of the two removable pins is retracted to allow the ribbon N to position itself along the chain to form the stretch or arc Nx of ribbon N which is interlaced with the two links Mi and Mi+1 , while the other pin remains engaged.

In particular, when forming a stretch or arc Nx of ribbon above the chain C, the pin P1 is retracted while the pin P2 is engaged with the ribbon N, conversely, when forming a stretch Nx of ribbon below the chain C the P2 pin is retracted, while the pin P1 is engaged with the ribbon N.

The rotation of the clamping block 22 is 180 degrees and accomplished by means of a pneumatic or motorized rotation actuator.

These steps are repeated for all the links M of the chain C until the chain C is completely interlaced with the concerned ribbon N.

At the end of the process, all the links M of the chain C will have undergone the described process and the chain C will be completely interlaced with the ribbon N along its entire length.

At the end of processing of the chain, the terminal end, once the guiding element G or GA is removed, is secured or fastened to the chain, e.g., it can be glued, sewn, or threaded backwards for some links to prevent it from slipping off. The latter processes are done manually.

The chain C has a mainly longitudinal development, with a transverse width substantially corresponding to the width of a link M, and a thickness assimilated to the thickness of a link M or a pair of links, in the overlapping areas of the two successive links.

The machine 1 also has a frame, not specifically indicated, with which the various components indicated are associated.

Parts of the previous steps will now be described in greater detail with special attention to the structure of the machine 1 as made in the embodiment shown in the Figures.

In particular, the controlled advancement system 10 of the chain C allows the movement of the chain C in successive steps so that the chain is advanced by one link M at a time in the direction of advancement indicated by the arrows in the drawings. In particular, during a complete processing cycle, the chain C is advanced by two links. Indeed, during the first part of the cycle (steps 1-7) the machine 1 processes the first link M1 , then in the eighth step the chain is advanced and the second part of the cycle (steps 9-15) is performed on the second link M2.

Of course, everything described for the first two links can be repeated for each subsequent pair of links E and E+1 . The controlled advancement system 10 provides a preferably horizontal advancement surface 11 on which chain C is placed. The chain C is moved along the longitudinal axis of the machine 1 linearly by means of two arms B1 and B2 equipped with respective hooks G1 and G2. The first end C1 of the chain C is fixed to the first hook, which, in cooperation with a carriage CAR that slides under the advancement surface 11 , feeds the chain C forward to position the chain link M on the vertical axis Z of the clamping block 22.

Alternatively, the movement of the chain C is controlled by a photocell FOT, which allows the correct positioning of the chain link M on the vertical axis Z of the clamping block 22.

The second hook G2 is connected to the opposite end Cn of the chain C so as to always keep the chain C taut and prevent its rotation during processing. The second hook G2 provides a spring to allow small movements of the chain C along the axis Z of machine 1 needed while processing. The two hooks G1 and G2 move together with the chain C to keep the chain taut and make sure that the through-openings of the links M are always well accessible and not overlapped or partially blocked by the next link sliding toward the previous one, reducing the passage space of the through-opening.

The clamping block 22 which carries the two grippers 23 and 24 translates on a vertical rail SBI by means of a slide SP. Two separately controlled actuators ATT are mounted on the slide SP. To each translation actuator ATT is connected a respective gripper 23 or 24 by means of a swinging bracket ST moved by a pneumatic control member OP. A supporting structure SS is mounted on each translation actuator which defines the maximum footprint when the grippers are open. This maximum footprint with the grippers open is such that during the passage of the clamping block 22, in addition to the controlled advancement system 10, the grippers do not interfere with the advancement surface 11 .

Of course, when the grippers 23 and 24 are in the closed position, the footprint is larger because they have to grip the ribbon N in the portion in which the rigid guiding element G is located.

The two grippers 23 and 24, during the various steps of the processing cycle, open and close by means of pneumatic actuators. In the closed condition, the grippers are normally engaged on the rigid guiding element G of the ribbon N and have a larger footprint, while in the open condition, they are retracted and have a smaller footprint so as not to interfere with the chain C and the advancement system 10 during the passage of the clamping block 22 from below to above the chain C (or vice versa).

The movement of the jaws 23a and 23b or 24a and 24b of the clamps is activated by a pneumatic piston which pushes or pulls the jaws to bring them to the two positions (open or closed). The jaws are guided in their movements by two toothed wheels RD.

Therefore, in the open condition the jaws 23a and 23b or 24a and 24b of the grippers 23 and 24 are retracted into the support structure carried by the slide and aligned with the outer edge of the supporting structure, and the open gripper, during the movement of the clamping block 22 from above to below the advancement surface 11 or vice versa, passes over without any problem of interference with the chain C.

The ribbon N is chosen with a given elastic constant to allow processing without tearing or damage.

However, the ribbon N is made of a delicate material. Therefore, some arrangements were designed to preserve the ribbon N from wear of processing for insertion into the chain C.

In particular, the leading system 30 of the ribbon N has two arms 33 and 34 running on respective rails.

The arm 33 provides a slide SB which carries a pneumatic translation actuator ATT that controls the movement of the pin P1 by means of a bracket STA. Similarly, the arm 34 provides a slide SB which carries a pneumatic translation actuator ATT that controls the movement of the pin P2.

The pins P1 and P2 work as "fingers", which grasp the ribbon N to accompany it in the movement of insertion into the link M of the chain C and keep it taut to prevent it from rolling, twisting, or creating knots. The accompanying movement is similar to that which is done when sewing, and as soon as the needle is passed from one side of the fabric to the other with the finger inserted in the loop created by the thread, it is kept taut to prevent it from knotting.

Each arm 33 and 34 has a sensor which makes it possible to measure the tension on the ribbon N and stop the slide when the tension exceeds a given threshold. The pin slides on a guide and moves between a retracted portion, in which it does not interact with the ribbon N, and an extended position, in which it engages the ribbon N.

The first pins P1 or P2 move between a first retracted position, in which they do not cooperate with the ribbon N, and a second position, in which they cooperate with the ribbon N.

The pin P1 or P2 has small holes (see Figure 17a) to create an air cushion so as to minimize friction between the ribbon N and the pin.

The pin P1 or P2 is equipped with bearings CUS (see Figure 17b) so as to minimize the friction between the ribbon N and the pin. In particular, the bearings CUS can be needle bearings or ball bearings. The bearings CUS can be radial or axial and of any known type with the purpose of reducing friction between pins and ribbon N to prevent the wear and deterioration of the ribbon N during sliding to minimize creep and preserve the ribbon N.

The alternative use of perforated pins or pins equipped with needle or ball bearings CUS can be selected according to the type of ribbon N to be used.

For example, with -narrower-and more delicate ribbons Ns, it is better to use pins with bearings, with wider and stronger ribbons Ns, it is better to use pins with perforations.

Preferably, in addition to the first pin P1 and P2 there is also a second pin P3 and P4 or counter-finger that is used to force or constrain the ribbon N and prevent it from twisting. In particular, each second pin P3 and P4 cooperates with a respective first pin P1 and P2 and is moved by means of a cam AC which moves it closer to or further away from the respective first pin.

In the case of first pins P1 or P2 equipped with bearings CUS, second pins P3 and P4 are also equipped with bearings CUS.

Preferably, the first P1 and P2 and the second P3 and P3 pins either do not contact the ribbon N by virtue of the air cushion or contact the ribbon N by means of the bearings CUS for reducing friction. The second pin P3 or P4 has a locking element which, in the condition faced with the first pin P1 or P2, prevents the ribbon N from slipping off. The closing element is, for example, an arrowhead-shaped end PF with the base of such a size to abut against the first pin so as to bind the ribbon N between the two pins and prevent it from being released. In this manner, it is possible to avoid the twisting of the ribbon N, which runs without the possibility of turning in on itself.

The second pin is controlled by the movement of the first pin, and its translation is driven by the cam. In the first cam position, the two pins are far apart (see Figures 12, 14, 16) while in the second cam position, the two pins are close together (see Figures 13, 15 and 17a and 17b).

To summarize, the machine 1 simulates the classical stitching procedure, in which a rigid guiding element G or needle GA by means of an inserting system 20 is passed through the links M of a chain C and the ribbon N is accompanied by virtue of a leading system 30 so that it does not knot or create a twist.

In particular, the inserting system 20 employs two grippers 23 and 24 which grasp at the same time or alternatively a rigid element which is used as a guiding element G or GA made on a first end of ribbon N to thread with a wavy pattern the ribbon N on the chain C.

After the guiding element G or GA is inserted into a link M of chain C, the inserting system 20 feeds the ribbon N for a small portion and the clamping block 22 is rotated 180 degrees to prepare for the insertion of the guiding element G or GA into the next and adjacent link.

Before this new insertion, the leading system 30 accompanies the ribbon N so that it forms the stretch or arc Nx of ribbon N which is interlaced between the two links that were just processed.

Obviously, what has been illustrated represents only possible nonlimiting embodiments of the invention, which can vary in forms and arrangements without departing from the scope of the concept underlying the invention. Any reference numbers in the accompanying claims are only intended to facilitate their reading in the light of the foregoing description and the attached drawings, and in no way limit the scope of protection thereof.

The description of specific embodiments provided above shows the invention from a conceptual point of view so that others, using the prior art, will be able to modify and/or adapt in various applications the specific embodiments without further research and without departing from the inventive concept, and, thus, it is understood that such adaptations and modifications will be considered as equivalents of the specific embodiments.

Means and materials for making the various described functions may be of various nature without departing from the scope of the invention.

It is worth noting that the terminology or expressions used are only descriptive and therefore non-limiting.

Obviously, without prejudice to the principle of the invention, the construction details and the embodiments can widely vary with respect to what described and illustrated above by way of example, without however departing from the scope of the present invention.

Where the constructive features and techniques mentioned in any successive claims are followed by references signs or numerals, such reference signs were introduced for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the same claims and consequently, such reference signs have no limiting effect on the interpretation of each element identified, by way of example only, by such reference signs.

Claims

1 . Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) in a wavy pattern, wherein said machine (1 ) comprises:

- a controlled advancement system (10) of the chain (C) adapted to translate the chain (C) in a horizontal plane (X,Y) at predetermined steps to position the links (M) of the chain (C) in the processing zone;

- an inserting system (20) of the ribbon (N), comprising a clamping block (22) adapted to translate in a vertical direction (Z), orthogonal to the horizontal plane (X,Y) and provided with a first gripper (23) and a second gripper (24), wherein said grippers (23,24) are adapted to grasp and clamp a rigid guiding element (G, GA) provided at a first terminal end (N1 ) of the ribbon (N) and guide or lead it cyclically through the links (M) of the chain (C); and

- a leading system (30) of the ribbon (N), comprising two arms (32,33) arranged on opposite sides relative to the horizontal plane (X,Y) of the controlled advancement system (10) on which the chain (C) is laid, adapted to translate obliquely, and wherein each arm (32,33) is provided with a finger-like end (P1 ,P2), adapted to engage with the ribbon (N) to make it slide and lead it so as to complete the insertion of the ribbon (N) into the link (M) of the chain (C) after the passage of the rigid guiding element (G, GA).

2. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 1 , wherein said controlled advancement system (10) provides an advancement surface (11 ), preferably horizontal, on which the chain (C) is arranged and linearly moved along the longitudinal axis by means of a carriage (CAR) which carries two arms (B1 , B2) provided with respective hooks (G1 ,G2) which allows the correct positioning of the link (M) on the vertical axis (Z) of the clamping block (22).

3. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 1 , wherein said controlled advancement system (10) provides an advancement surface (11 ), preferably horizontal, on which the chain (C) is arranged to be moved linearly along the longitudinal axis wherein the movement is controlled by a photocell (FOT) which allows the correct positioning of the link (M) on the vertical axis (Z) of the clamping block (22).

4. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inserting system (20) of the ribbon (N) comprising a clamping block (22) adapted to translate in a vertical direction (Z) on a guiding rail (BGI), wherein said clamping block (22) comprises a first gripper (23) and a second gripper (24) adapted to grip and clamp the rigid guiding element (G, GA).

5. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 4, wherein said first gripper (23) and said second gripper (24) comprise respective jaws (23a, 23b; 24a, 24b), and the movement of the grippers (23,24) is activated by a pneumatic piston (OP), which either pushes or pulls the jaws (23a, 23b; 24a, 24b) to bring them to the two open or closed positions by means of the rotation of two toothed wheels (RD).

6. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the leading system (30) of the ribbon (N) comprises two arms (32, 33) arranged on opposite sides relative to the plane of the controlled advancement system (10), wherein said arms (32, 33) are each adapted to translate obliquely on a respective guiding rail (BGC).

7. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 6, wherein each arm (32, 33) is provided with a finger-like end (P1 , P2) adapted to engage with the ribbon (N).

8. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 7, wherein said finger-like end (P1 , P2) is an extractable pin.

9. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 8, wherein said finger-like end (P1 , P2) is provided with small holes to create an air cushion to minimize friction between the ribbon (N) and the finger-like end (P1 , P2).

10. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 9, wherein in addition to said finger-like end (P1 , P2) there is also a counter-finger (P3, P4) which is used to constrain the ribbon (N) and prevent it from twisting.

11. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 8, wherein said finger-like end (P1 , P2) is provided with needle bearings or ball bearings, wherein in addition to said finger-like end (P1 , P2) there is also a counter-finger (P3, P4) provided with needle bearings or ball bearings which is used to constrain the ribbon (N) and prevent it from twisting.

12. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the leading system (30) of the ribbon (N) has idler rollers (RR) which intervene in an active position at the height of the chain (C) precisely during the step in which the web (N) is pulled and return to a retracted resting position during the step in which the rigid guiding element (G, GA) is passed through the chain (C).

13. Machine (1 ) for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) according to claim 12, wherein said idle rollers (RR) are provided with bearings (CUS) for reducing friction.

14. A method for interlacing a ribbon (N) within the links (M) of a chain (C) in a wavy pattern, wherein said method comprises the following steps: a) preparing the ribbon (N) with a rigid guiding element (G, GA) at a first end (N1 ), b) setting up a controlled advancement system (10) of the chain (C), c) setting up an inserting system (20) of the ribbon (N), d) setting up a double leading system (30) of the ribbon (N), e) positioning, by means of said controlled advancement system (10), the chain (C) so that the link (Mi) to be processed is at the vertical axis (Z) of the inserting system (20), f) grasping, with the inserting system (20), the rigid guiding element (G, GA) in a portion of space which is below, or respectively above, the controlled advancement system (10) of the chain (C), g) completing the insertion of the rigid guiding element (G, GA) into the link (Mi) and leading the ribbon (N) through the link (Mi) being processed; h) operating the inserting system (20) to travel along a guiding rail (BGI) in a direction adapted to insert the ribbon (N) within the link (Mi) being processed, moving in a vertical direction from bottom upwards, or from top downwards, respectively, through the link (Mi) being processed; i) continuing with the movement of the inserting system (20) up to the limit stop of the guiding rail (BGI), j) flipping the inserting system (20) by 180 degrees, keeping the ribbon (N) taut and perpendicular to the chain (C); k) operating the leading system (30) of the ribbon (N) which is on the same side of the inserting system (20) with respect to the chain (C) to run a guiding rail (BGC) in the approaching direction of the ribbon (N), l) grasping the ribbon (N) with the leading system (30) to keep it taut, m) operating the leading system (30) to travel along the guiding rail (BGC) again to return to the initial position bringing the ribbon (N) behind, so as to make the ribbon (N) slide further through the link (Mi) being processed as long as said ribbon (N) provides enough tension to stop the sliding of the leading system (30), and n) repeating steps (e) to (m) for all links (Mi+1 ) of the chain (C).