GB1061796A - Method of automatic transportation of laps between lap-winding and combing machines and apparatus therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

A lap-winding machine and sets of combing machines which it supplies by means of fully automatic lap-transfer apparatus are linked by an endless overhead rail on which spaced lap-carriers driven by a common endless chain continuously travel and each is operable by clasping and release mechanisms to collect a lap, which has been automatically doffed from the lap-machine and then lifted into the path of the oncoming carrier, and subsequently deposit it on the first available unloaded combing-machine feeder. When an unloaded carrier approaches the lap-machine (and assuming a wound lap has been doffed and awaits transportation from one cradle of a horizontally traversable receiving apparatus thereby) it operates a limit switch to actuate an electromagnetic-valve controlled hydraulic mechanism of lifting apparatus whereby the cradle with the lap thereon is positioned in the path of the carrier: a second limit switch at the clasping position is then engaged by the carrier body to cause two electromagnetic-valve controlled hydraulic pistons to force spring-loaded, normally open or spread, pivoted arms of the carrier into a closed position in which their hook ends engage in projecting open ends of the spool on which the lap is wound: the lap is removed from the winding station as the carrier continues its travel and, after an interval determined by a time-delay relay, the lifting and clasping mechanisms return to their former positions. If, as a loaded or unloaded carrier approaches the lap machine, a lap has not been doffed, then an initiating relay for lap receiving, lifting and clasping controls is not energised and the carrier passes over the lap-machine &c. without incident. If, when a doffed lap is awaiting transportation, a loaded carrier approaches, then the lifting and clasping apparatuses remain inactive as the carrier pases the station but the receiving apparatus is shifted (by limit-switch operated, electromagnetic-valve controlled, hydraulic piston) on trolley wheels so that an empty cradle thereof is positioned to receive the next doffed lap. When a loaded carrier arrives at an empty feeder, it actuates another limit switch to energise solenoids the core extensions of which rotate locking levers whereby the arms of the carrier spring open to release the lap.