GB1425702A - Pattern control system - Google Patents

Abstract

1425702 Automatic control of textile machinery SHORELL Ltd 4 June 1973 [5 June 1972] 26207/72 Heading G3N [Also in Division D I ] Data defining a multi-colour pattern for a carpet tufting, or knitting machine is stored in disc or magnetic core store 28 which is addressed by counter 35 actuated in synchronism with the machine to transfer data defining a row of the pattern to shift register 31 whence it is available in parallel form on leads 37 to control yarn or tuft supply to the machine. Each possible colour for a stitch is represented by a three bit binary code, there being a fourth bit to give a parity check {odd}. The pattern may repeat within each row in which case each data bit is fed to a plurality of needles. The store 28 may contain data of a plurality of patterns, a manual switch causing only those addresses for one of the patterns to be used. Tuft height of the pattern is controlled. Decoders 33 are gated by counter 34 whose operation is synchronized with the machine, substore 30 being provided to ensure that the data passed from store 28 is available to shift register 31 in accordance with its input characteristics. Data preparation, Fig. 2 (not shown). The pattern information is binary coded and punched on to tape, distinct codes being punched to define the end of a row, and of the pattern. The tape is read to pass the data to the shift register (13), used as unit 31 during control, whence the data is clocked serially into the disc store (11) along with the row address from counter (12) controlled by the tape reader. Data can be transferred from the disc (11) to a tape for storage. Tufting machine details. A plurality of rollers 27, are coupled via electromagnetic clutches 27' to a drive, and control yarn feed or tension, each roll pair being associated with a plurality of yarns. The rollers are driven in accordance with the data to provide a row of loops, the pile height thus being varied, possibly steplessly, in accordance with the data. There may be a solenoid operated clamping device (not shown) controlling the yarn tension, and hence the amount fed to the rollers. In Fig. 4 (not shown) each of the plurality of pairs of rollers (38) are selectively coupled via clutches (39), (40), or (41) to give one of three different rotational speeds, thus allowing selection of one of three pile heights. Colour data controls, for each needle, tuft or yarn feed (16), Fig. 1 (not shown) containing solenoid actuators cutting a length of yarn of the required colour fed via pneumatic feed (19') to the needle (20). Synchronizing means. Disc 32a rotates with the machine and carries apertures, or transparent or reflecting regions 32b,e controlling passage of light from a source (not shown) to photo-cells 32c,d enabling counters 35, and 34 respectively. Regions 32b,e are adjustable in position, and micro-switches may be used.