JP2016064917A - Yarn monitoring device and yarn winding machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a yarn monitoring device capable of accurately evaluating a yarn even when a foreign matter such as a fiber waste intrudes into or leaves from a yarn detection area.SOLUTION: A clearer control part 50 included in an optical clearer 15 includes a zero point adjustment part 54 and a foreign matter handling processing part 59. The zero point adjustment part 54 performs a zero point adjustment processing to adjust a driving control value of a light projection 41 so that a detection value output by a sensor unit 35 is a predetermined value on the basis of an amount of light received by a light receiving part 42, in a state where a yarn 10 is absent in a detection area 36. The foreign matter handling processing part 59 performs a foreign matter handling processing when the detection value deviates from a predetermined foreign matter determination range continuously for predetermined foreign matter determination hours, in the state where the yarn 10 is absent in the detection area 36. The zero point adjustment part 54 again performs the zero point adjustment processing when the detection value deviates from a normal range which is a range of a detection value preset so as to be broader than the foreign matter determination range, in the state where the yarn 10 is absent in the detection area 36.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present invention mainly relates to a yarn monitoring device that monitors a traveling yarn.

  Conventionally, a yarn winding machine configured to wind a yarn around a bobbin, such as a spinning machine or an automatic winder, is known. This type of yarn winding machine includes a yarn monitoring device (yarn clearer). The optical yarn monitoring device irradiates the traveling yarn with light and measures the transmitted light transmitted through the yarn or the reflected light reflected by the yarn in real time to monitor the state of the yarn. ) Where there is an abnormality in quality. Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a yarn winding machine provided with this type of yarn monitoring device.

  The yarn monitoring device (clearer) of Patent Document 1 includes a clearer head having LEDs and a yarn unevenness sensor. Further, the clearer is configured to perform a dirt determination process in order to determine whether or not there is an abnormality such as dirt on the clearer head. In the clearer disclosed in Patent Document 1, prior to the dirt determination process, driving is applied to the LED so that the voltage corresponding to the detection signal when nothing is arranged on the yarn path of the yarn monitoring device becomes a predetermined voltage. A process for adjusting the voltage is performed. Patent Document 1 assumes that an abnormality such as dirt on the clearer head can be accurately detected with this configuration.

  The yarn monitoring device (yarn thickness detector) of Patent Document 2 adjusts the circuit constants on the substrate at the timing instructed by the unit controller during the doffing operation and there is no yarn in the detection area, and outputs an output signal. Perform the process of adjusting to zero. Patent Document 2 assumes that this configuration can effectively suppress the deviation of the zero point.

  The yarn monitoring device of Patent Document 3 relates to a yarn type clearer that is not an optical type but a capacitance type. Patent Document 3 discloses that the cause of the change in the clearer signal is distinguished from the solid foreign particles contained in the yarn or local humidity fluctuations.

JP2013-204190A Japanese Patent No. 3707413 Japanese Patent No. 5283003

  By the way, in the yarn winding machine, since the wound yarn travels at a high speed, foreign matters such as fiber scraps are easily generated around the yarn. Since the fiber waste is lightweight, it may float around the yarn winder and enter the detection area of the yarn monitoring device.

  As described above, in the yarn monitoring device disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the yarn is applied to the LED in a state in which no yarn is arranged in the detection region of the yarn monitoring device so that the yarn can be accurately monitored. A process for adjusting the drive voltage and a process for adjusting the circuit constant on the substrate to adjust the output signal to zero are performed. However, if a foreign object enters the detection area or the foreign object leaves the detection area, usually, the accuracy of monitoring the yarn is greatly reduced. Specifically, even if the above processing is performed in a state where there is no foreign matter in the detection region, if the foreign matter enters the detection region after that, the yarn state cannot be accurately evaluated. The reverse is also true, and if the above-described processing is performed in a state where the foreign matter has entered the detection region, and the foreign matter is subsequently removed from the detection region, then the state of the yarn cannot be accurately evaluated. .

  In this regard, Patent Document 3 shows that the cause of the change in the clearer signal is specified, but there is no disclosure about the influence of foreign matter that enters or leaves the detection area.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a main purpose thereof is a yarn monitoring device capable of accurately monitoring a yarn even when a foreign object enters the detection region or leaves the detection region. Is to provide.

Means and effects for solving the problems

  The problems to be solved by the present invention are as described above. Next, means for solving the problems and the effects thereof will be described.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, a yarn monitoring device having the following configuration is provided. That is, the yarn monitoring device includes a light projecting unit, a light receiving unit, and a control unit. The light projecting unit projects light onto a detection area where the yarn can travel. The light receiving unit receives light projected from the light projecting unit. A detection value corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit is input to the control unit. The control unit includes an evaluation unit, a light projection adjustment unit, and a foreign matter handling processing unit. The evaluation unit evaluates the state of the yarn existing in the detection area based on the detection value. The light projecting adjustment unit performs a light projecting adjustment process of adjusting a drive control value of the light projecting unit so that the detected value becomes a predetermined value in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. The foreign matter handling processing unit performs the foreign matter handling process when the detected value falls outside the predetermined foreign matter judgment range for a predetermined foreign matter judgment time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. The light emission adjustment unit is configured so that the detection value is out of a normal range that is a range of detection values set in advance so as to have a width wider than the width of the foreign matter determination range in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. In the case where the light emission is detected, the light projection adjustment process is performed again.

  Thus, if the detection value in the state where the yarn is not present in the detection area deviates from the foreign object determination range for a predetermined foreign object determination time, it is determined that the foreign object intrusion state has changed and predetermined foreign object determination processing is performed. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately cope with the entry / extraction of foreign matter. Further, since the detected value is based on the condition that the foreign object determination range has deviated continuously for a predetermined foreign object determination time, for example, it is input to the control unit during a normal doffing operation in a yarn winding machine provided with this yarn monitoring device. Even if the detection value becomes unstable, it is possible to prevent erroneous determination that the foreign object intrusion state has changed.

  In the yarn monitoring device, the light projecting adjustment unit is configured such that when the detected value deviates from the normal range for a predetermined light projecting adjustment determination time in a state where the yarn does not exist in the detection region, It is preferable to perform the light projection adjustment process again.

  As a result, it is possible to prevent unnecessary light projection adjustment processing from being performed due to, for example, noise appearing in the detection value.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the yarn monitoring device includes a foreign matter removing device that removes foreign matter existing in the detection area. The foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit includes a process of operating the foreign matter removing apparatus.

  Thereby, the foreign substance of a detection area | region can be removed and it can be set as the state suitable for a light projection adjustment process.

  In the yarn monitoring device, it is preferable that the foreign matter removing device removes foreign matter by blowing air onto the detection area.

  Thereby, it is possible to remove foreign matters existing in the detection region with a simple configuration.

  In the yarn monitoring device, it is preferable that the foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit includes causing the light projecting adjustment unit to perform the light projecting adjustment process again.

  Thereby, the light projection adjustment process is performed again, so that the influence of the foreign matter on the detected value can be effectively eliminated.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the yarn monitoring device includes a yarn presence / absence determining unit that determines whether or not a yarn is located in the detection area. Even if the yarn presence / absence determining unit determines that the yarn is located in the detection region, the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling unit behaves as if the yarn is not located in the detection region. Processing is included.

  That is, when the foreign matter handling processing unit determines that a foreign matter has entered or detached, the yarn monitoring device cannot accurately evaluate the yarn due to the influence of the foreign matter. Therefore, the yarn winding machine provided with this yarn monitoring device It is not appropriate that winding is started in Therefore, in this case, the yarn monitoring device behaves as if no yarn is set, so that it is possible to reliably prevent winding from being started thereafter.

  In the yarn monitoring apparatus, it is preferable that the yarn presence / absence determining unit determines whether or not a yarn is located on a yarn path in the detection region.

  Thereby, the yarn monitoring device can reliably detect whether or not a yarn is present on the yarn path. In addition, when the foreign matter handling processing unit determines that foreign matter has entered or left, the yarn monitoring device can behave as if there is no yarn on the yarn path.

  In the yarn monitoring apparatus, it is preferable that the foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit includes a process of outputting a foreign matter detection signal.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the textile machine including the yarn monitoring device includes a winding unit that winds the yarn to form a package. The foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit includes a process of outputting a winding prevention signal that prevents the winding unit from winding the yarn.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the textile machine including the yarn monitoring device includes a yarn joining device that performs yarn joining. The foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit includes a process of outputting a yarn joining signal that causes the yarn joining device to perform yarn joining.

  As a result, various foreign matter handling processes can be performed.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the yarn monitoring device includes a notification device. The notification device performs notification when the detected value deviates from the foreign object determination range continuously for the foreign object determination time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region.

  Thereby, an operator can grasp | ascertain the penetration | invasion and detachment | leave of the foreign material to a detection area with an alerting | reporting apparatus. Moreover, the operator can manually stop the winding of the yarn winding machine provided with the yarn monitoring device by the notification.

  In the yarn monitoring device, the notification device is preferably a display device capable of displaying at least one of characters, symbols, and figures.

  Thereby, it is possible to notify the operator with a simple configuration. Further, by displaying characters or the like on the screen, detailed contents can be notified to the operator.

  In the yarn monitoring device, the notification device is preferably a lighting device that can be turned on.

  Thereby, it is possible to notify the operator with a simple configuration. Moreover, since the situation regarding the foreign object can be notified in the lighting state of the lighting device, the operator can easily confirm the entry / extraction of the foreign object even from a distance.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the foreign matter handling processing unit has continued for a predetermined time that the detected value exceeds a limit value on one side of the foreign matter judgment range and is out of the foreign matter judgment range in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. In this case, it is determined that a foreign object has entered the detection area. The foreign object handling processing unit is configured in a case where a state in which the detected value exceeds a limit value on the other side of the foreign object determination range and is out of the foreign object determination range continues for a predetermined time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. , It is determined that the foreign matter has left the detection area.

  As a result, the foreign matter handling processing unit can distinguish and determine whether foreign matter has entered or left the detection area.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the foreign matter determination range is relatively determined based on a reference value that is a past detection value. When the detected value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range, the foreign object handling processing unit uses the new foreign object determination range in which the detected value is set as the reference value in the next determination. .

  Thereby, the foreign substance corresponding | compatible process part can grasp | ascertain with high precision whether there existed a change in the invasion state of the foreign substance to a detection area | region.

  However, the yarn monitoring device may be configured such that the foreign matter determination range is fixedly determined.

  In this case, it is possible to simply determine the entry / exit of a foreign substance.

  The yarn monitoring device preferably has the following configuration. That is, the yarn monitoring device includes a yarn presence / absence determining unit that determines whether or not a yarn is located in the detection area. The yarn presence / absence determination unit determines that a yarn is located in the detection region when the detection value is equal to or greater than a predetermined yarn presence / absence determination threshold. The yarn presence / absence determination threshold is set to a value outside the foreign matter determination range.

  Thereby, the yarn monitoring device can grasp the presence of the yarn separately from foreign matters such as fiber waste.

  According to the 2nd viewpoint of this invention, the yarn winding machine provided with the said thread | yarn monitoring apparatus is provided.

  As a result, it is possible to accurately evaluate the state of the yarn and wind the yarn while appropriately responding to the entry / extraction of the foreign matter with respect to the detection region.

The side view which shows the outline of the yarn winding unit which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. The side view of a yarn winding unit showing a state in which a first yarn catching device and a second yarn catching device are catching a yarn end. The side view of a yarn winding unit showing a state in which the first yarn catching device and the second yarn catching device guide the yarn end to the yarn joining device. The perspective view which shows the structure of a clearer. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a clearer. The graph which shows the example of transition of the detected value until a thread | yarn is introduce | transduced into a detection area. The graph which shows the example of transition of a detected value when a foreign material penetrate | invades before a thread | yarn is introduce | transduced into a detection area. The graph which shows the example of transition of a detected value when the foreign material penetrate | invaded before the thread | yarn was introduced into the detection area | region, but the said foreign material removed | separated immediately. The graph explaining the process when a detected value increases greatly under the influence of temperature drift. The graph which shows the example of transition of a detected value when the foreign material has penetrate | invaded into the detection area | region, but the said foreign material removed before the thread | yarn was introduce | transduced. The flowchart which shows the process performed by a clearer control part. The graph which shows the modification by which the foreign material determination range is fixedly defined.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a yarn winding unit 1 provided in a yarn winding machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The yarn winding machine of the present embodiment has a configuration in which a plurality of yarn winding units 1 are arranged side by side. The yarn winding machine includes a machine base management device (not shown) that centrally manages the yarn winding unit 1.

  The yarn winding unit 1 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to form a package 20 by winding a yarn 10 supplied from a yarn supply unit (not shown) onto a winding bobbin. The configuration depicted in the drawings shows the common parts of the yarn winding unit 1 so that both the case where the yarn winding unit 1 is a spinning unit of a spinning machine and the case of a winder unit of an automatic winder can be explained. Yes. When the yarn winding unit 1 is a spinning unit of a spinning machine, for example, an air spinning device corresponds to the yarn feeding unit. When the yarn winding unit 1 is a winder unit of an automatic winder, a mechanism that supports the yarn feeding bobbin corresponds to the yarn feeding unit.

  Each yarn winding unit 1 includes a unit control unit 30 configured by a computer. The unit control unit 30 includes hardware such as a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and software such as a control program stored in the ROM and / or RAM. The unit control unit 30 controls each configuration of the yarn winding unit 1 through cooperation between hardware and software. The unit control unit 30 of each yarn winding unit 1 is configured to be able to communicate with the machine base management device. Thereby, the operation of each yarn winding unit 1 can be centrally managed in the machine base management device.

  The yarn winding unit 1 includes, in order from the upstream side, an upstream guide 11, a first yarn catching device 12, a second yarn catching device 13, a yarn joining device 14, a clearer (yarn monitoring device) 15, and a downstream side. A guide 17 and a winding unit 18 are provided. When the yarn winding unit 1 is a spinning unit, the first yarn catching device 12, the second yarn catching device 13 and the yarn joining device 14 may be provided for each unit, but a movable yarn joining cart. It is preferable that the first yarn catching device 12, the second yarn catching device 13, and the yarn joining device 14 are provided in the yarn joining cart. On the other hand, when the yarn winding unit 1 is a winder unit, the first yarn catching device 12, the second yarn catching device 13, and the yarn joining device 14 are preferably provided for each unit.

  The upstream guide 11 is disposed on the upstream side of the yarn supplying unit. The upstream guide 11 guides the yarn 10 sent from the yarn supplying unit side.

  The first yarn catching device 12 is configured to be rotatable as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 when the unit controller 30 drives a motor (not shown). The first yarn catching device 12 is connected to a negative pressure source (not shown), and a suction flow can be generated on the distal end side (opposite the rotation center) of the first yarn catching device 12.

  The second yarn catching device 13 is configured to be rotatable like the first yarn catching device 12 by the unit controller 30 driving a motor (not shown). The second yarn catching device 13 is connected to a negative pressure source (not shown) and can generate a suction flow on the tip side (the opposite side of the rotation center) of the second yarn catching device 13.

  The clearer (yarn monitoring device) 15 monitors the condition of the traveling yarn 10 (thickness, mixing of foreign matter such as colored yarn and polypropylene), and the yarn defect included in the yarn 10 (location where the yarn 10 is abnormal) Is detected. Further, the clearer 15 incorporates a cutter (cutting device) 16 for cutting the yarn 10 when the clearer 15 detects a yarn defect. The detailed configuration of the clearer 15 will be described later.

  The downstream guide 17 is disposed slightly downstream of the clearer 15. The downstream guide 17 guides the yarn 10 sent to the winding unit 18.

  The winding unit 18 includes a package support unit (not shown) and a winding drum 19. The winding drum 19 is driven in contact with the winding bobbin 21 or the outer peripheral surface of the package 20. The winding unit 18 drives the winding drum 19 with a motor (not shown), and forms the package 20 by winding the yarn 10 while traversing the yarn 10 while rotating the package 20 in contact with the winding drum 19.

  In addition, the method of performing traverse is arbitrary, The structure by which a traverse apparatus is provided separately for every yarn winding unit 1 may be sufficient, and the structure by which one traverse apparatus traverses the thread | yarn 10 of the several yarn winding unit 1 is possible. It may be. Examples of the traverse device provided for each yarn winding unit 1 include a traverse groove formed in the winding drum 19 or an arm-type traverse device. The arm-type traverse device is preferably applied to a configuration in which the winding bobbin 21 is directly driven by a motor (not shown).

  Since the yarn winding unit 1 is configured as described above, the package 10 can be formed by winding the yarn 10 supplied from the yarn supplying unit while traversing the yarn 10 with the winding unit 18.

  By the way, when the yarn 10 between the yarn supplying unit side and the winding unit 18 side is in a divided state for some reason, the first yarn catching device 12 and the second yarn collecting device 12 are used to make the yarn 10 continuous again. The yarn catching device 13 and the yarn joining device 14 operate in cooperation to perform a series of steps for yarn joining.

  Hereinafter, this process will be described. When the yarn 10 is in the above-described divided state, first, if the winding unit 18 is winding, the winding is immediately stopped. Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the first yarn catching device 12 rotates to the yarn feeding unit side and sucks and catches the yarn end on the yarn feeding unit side. At the same time, the second yarn catching device 13 rotates to the winding unit 18 side and sucks and catches the yarn end on the winding unit 18 side.

  Thereafter, the first yarn catching device 12 and the second yarn catching device 13 rotate so as to return to the standby position with the yarn end sucked. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3, the yarn end on the yarn supplying unit side and the yarn end on the winding unit 18 side are supplied to the yarn joining device 14. Further, the yarn 10 is set on the clearer 15 at substantially the same timing as the yarn end guidance described above, and the yarn 10 is detected by the clearer 15.

  The yarn splicing device 14 is configured as a pneumatic splicer device, and causes two swirling air flows to act on the yarn end on the yarn supplying unit side and the yarn end on the winding unit 18 side, thereby causing two yarn ends to operate. Twist and connect. However, the yarn joining device 14 is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a mechanical knotter device.

  Through the above steps, the separated yarn 10 can be connected by the yarn joining device 14 to be in a continuous state. This series of steps for piecing is repeated each time the yarn 10 is in a split state. Therefore, hereinafter, the above-described series of steps may be referred to as a yarn joining cycle.

  This yarn joining cycle is realized by the unit controller 30 controlling the first yarn catching device 12, the second yarn catching device 13, the yarn joining device 14 and the like to operate at an appropriate timing.

  In addition, as described above, the setting operation of the yarn 10 to the clearer 15 is the timing at which the yarn end is guided to the yarn joining device 14 (in other words, immediately before the yarn joining operation by the yarn joining device 14) or after the doffing. This is done at the timing before resuming. The unit controller 30 determines whether or not the yarn 10 has been normally set on the clearer 15 in the yarn joining cycle, and an appropriate signal (specifically, a yarn presence signal described later) is sent to the unit controller 30 from the clearer 15. Judgment is made based on whether or not an input has been made. If the yarn presence signal from the clearer 15 is not input to the unit control unit 30, it means that the yarn 10 cannot be monitored by the clearer 15. Therefore, the unit control unit 30 regards that the yarn joining cycle has failed, The yarn splicing operation by the device 14 is stopped, and a series of processes is restarted from the beginning.

  When the yarn 10 having a predetermined length is wound around the winding bobbin 21 and the package 20 is fully wound, the yarn 10 is automatically cut by the cutter 16 of the clearer 15 and the winding of the winding unit 18 is stopped. Thereafter, the package 20 is removed from the winding unit 18 by an operator's manual operation. Instead, an empty winding bobbin 21 is attached to the winding unit 18 and the winding is resumed. This doffing operation may be performed by a known automatic doffing device instead of manual operation.

  Next, the configuration of the clearer 15 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the clearer 15.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the clearer 15 of this embodiment includes an optical sensor unit (detection unit) 35 that can measure the state of the yarn 10. The sensor unit 35 includes a housing 37.

  A slit-like recess 38 is formed in the housing 37, and the yarn 10 can travel inside the recess 38. The recess 38 is formed as a linear groove with one side open, and the detection region 36 is located inside the recess 38. The detection region 36 is a region where light from a light projecting unit 41 described later is projected, and is a region where the yarn 10 can be detected according to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 42 described later.

  In addition, the clearer 15 includes the cutter 16 as described above, and the cutting blade included in the cutter 16 is disposed in the recess 38 on the upstream side of the detection region 36 in the yarn traveling direction.

  Yarn path guides 131 and 132 for guiding the yarn 10 traveling in the recess 38 are attached to the housing 37. The housing 37 is provided with a display lamp (notification device, lighting device) 46. The lighting state of the display lamp 46 indicates the status of the clearer 15 or notifies the operator of the abnormality. Can do.

  Furthermore, a display (notification device, display device) 47 is installed in the housing 37. The display 47 is configured as a liquid crystal display, for example, and can display characters, symbols, graphics, and the like as necessary. Therefore, the display 47 can inform the operator of information regarding the operating state of the clearer 15 in more detail than the display lamp 46. For example, when an abnormality occurs in the clearer 15, the abnormality can be notified to the operator by displaying an alarm screen, for example.

  The housing 37 is formed with two air outlets capable of ejecting compressed air, that is, a first air outlet 151 and a second air outlet 152.

  The first outlet 151 is formed in a round hole shape on the inner wall on the back side of the recess 38. By ejecting air from the first air outlet 151, a flow of air along the side wall of the recess 38 can be generated, and air can be blown to the detection region 36 or the cutting blade vicinity of the cutter 16.

  The second outlet 152 is formed in a slit shape and is disposed outside the recess 38. The second air outlet 152 is inclined in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 4, i.e., in the direction of the width of the groove-like recess 38 and in the direction inclined to the yarn traveling direction. Can be sprayed. The air blown out from the second air outlet 152 is blown into the inside from the opening side of the concave portion 38 and the upstream side of the yarn traveling, and strikes the side wall on one side of the concave portion 38 so that the spiral air flows into the concave portion 38. A flow can be generated and air can be blown onto the detection region 36 or the like.

  As a result, even if foreign matter such as fiber waste enters the inside of the recess 38 (detection region 36), the foreign matter is removed from the recess 38 by ejecting air from the first outlet 151 and the second outlet 152. It can be removed by blowing away.

  Next, the configuration of the clearer 15 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the clearer 15.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the clearer 15 includes the sensor unit 35 and a clearer control unit (control unit) 50. The sensor unit 35 includes a drive circuit 40, a light projecting unit 41, a light receiving unit 42, an amplifier 43, a high-pass filter 44, an amplifier circuit 45, a display lamp 46, a display 47, a cutter 16, and compressed air. An electromagnetic valve 48 for use.

  The light projecting unit 41 includes a light emitting element composed of a light emitting diode (LED). The light projecting unit 41 emits light to the yarn 10 traveling on the yarn path with a light amount corresponding to the drive voltage input from the drive circuit 40. The drive voltage generated by the drive circuit 40 is determined based on an electrical signal input from the DA converter 52 provided in the clearer control unit 50.

  The light receiving unit 42 is disposed on the opposite side of the light projecting unit 41 with the recess 38 interposed therebetween (in other words, with the yarn path passing through the recess 38 interposed therebetween). The light receiving unit 42 includes a light receiving element formed of a photodiode or the like. The light receiving unit 42 receives the transmitted light of the light emitted from the light projecting unit 41 to the yarn 10 and outputs an electrical signal (voltage) corresponding to the amount of received light. This electric signal changes according to the shape (cross-sectional shape) of the yarn 10 existing between the light projecting unit 41 and the light receiving unit 42.

  The electric signal output from the light receiving unit 42 is amplified by the amplifier 43, then a high-frequency filter 44 extracts a signal having a predetermined high frequency, and is amplified again by the amplifier circuit 45. In addition, since the inversion process is performed in the amplifier 43 of the present embodiment, the electrical signal output from the amplifier 43 decreases as the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 42 increases. The amplified electrical signal is output as a detection value from the sensor unit 35 and converted into a digital signal by the AD converter 51 of the clearer control unit 50.

  The display lamp 46 can be turned on and off to indicate the operating state of the clearer 15 to the operator. In the present embodiment, the display lamp 46 is configured as a so-called two-color LED and can shine in green and red. The lighting state of the display lamp 46 is controlled by the clearer control unit 50.

  The display 47 can inform the operator of information related to the operating state of the clearer 15 by displaying characters, symbols, graphics, and the like. The display content of the display 47 is controlled by the clearer control unit 50.

  The cutter 16 includes a cutting blade as described above, and the cutting blade is driven by, for example, a solenoid. The cutter 16 is electrically connected to the clearer control unit 50 and is configured to cut the yarn 10 based on a cutting signal output from the clearer control unit 50.

  The compressed air solenoid valve 48 is disposed in a path between a compressed air supply source (not shown) (for example, a blower included in the yarn winding machine) and the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152 described above. Yes. The compressed air solenoid valve 48 is electrically connected to the clearer control unit 50 and opens for a predetermined time based on the injection signal output from the clearer control unit 50, and the first blower outlet 151 and the second blower outlet 152. Air can be jetted from. The first blower outlet 151, the second blower outlet 152, and the compressed air solenoid valve 48 constitute a foreign substance removal device that removes foreign substances from the detection region 36.

  In the present embodiment, the clearer control unit 50 opens the compressed air solenoid valve 48 immediately after the unit control unit 30 starts the above-described yarn splicing cycle, and air is supplied from the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152. Is controlled to be injected. Since the yarn 10 is not introduced into the detection region 36 at the beginning of the yarn joining cycle, it is possible to prevent the yarn 10 from obstructing the air flow by injecting air at this timing. Accordingly, the foreign matter existing in the detection region 36 can be effectively blown away and removed.

  Further, the clearer control unit 50 stores a reference value (a zero point for evaluation described later) that is a detection value output by the sensor unit 35 when the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region 36 in the data storage unit 57 described later. Yes. The yarn state evaluation unit 53 provided in the clearer control unit 50 evaluates (measures) the state of the yarn 10 by comparing the evaluation zero point and the detected value.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the clearer control unit 50 will be described. The clearer control unit 50 includes a yarn state evaluation unit (evaluation unit) 53, a zero point adjustment unit (light projection adjustment unit) 54, a zero point measurement unit 55, a yarn presence / absence determination unit 56, a data storage unit 57, An evaluation zero point setting unit 58 and a foreign matter handling unit 59 are provided. Specifically, the clearer control unit 50 is configured as a computer including hardware such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, and software such as a control program is stored in the ROM. Then, by the cooperation of the hardware and software described above, the clearer control unit 50 is changed to a yarn state evaluation unit 53, a zero point adjustment unit 54, a zero point measurement unit 55, a yarn presence / absence determination unit 56, and a data storage unit 57. The evaluation zero point setting unit 58, the foreign object handling processing unit 59, and the like can be operated.

  After the yarn splicing cycle is started and air is injected from the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152 as described above, the zero point adjusting unit 54 performs the zero point adjusting process after a short time has elapsed. (Light projection adjustment processing) is performed. In the zero point adjustment process, the detection value (specifically, the output voltage) output from the sensor unit 35 in a state where the yarn 10 is not disposed in the detection area 36 of the clearer 15 becomes a predetermined adjustment reference value. As described above, this is a process of adjusting the drive voltage applied to the light projecting unit 41 in the sensor unit 35.

  The zero point measurement unit 55 performs a zero point measurement process. The zero point measurement process is to control the sensor unit 35 so that the voltage adjusted by the zero point adjustment process is applied to the light projecting unit 41 in a state where the yarn 10 is not disposed in the detection region 36 of the clearer 15. In this process, the detection value actually output by the sensor unit 35 is acquired. The detected value (specifically, the output voltage of the sensor unit 35) obtained by this should be almost the same value as the adjustment reference value in the zero point adjustment process. The values may be different due to the intrusion or separation of the other (foreign matter). The detection value acquired by the zero point measurement unit 55 is stored in a data storage unit 57 described later.

  The yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines whether or not the yarn 10 exists in the detection region 36 of the clearer 15 (particularly, the yarn path in the detection region 36) based on the detection value acquired by the zero point measurement unit 55. judge. Specifically, the yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 determines that the yarn 10 is present (with yarn) if the output voltage of the sensor unit 35 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold (yarn presence / absence determination threshold), and otherwise, the yarn is present. 10 is not present (no thread).

  When it is determined that there is a yarn, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 (unit control unit 30) outputs a signal to that effect (yarn presence signal) to the unit control unit 30. The unit control unit 30 determines whether or not the yarn 10 has been normally set in the detection region 36 by the above-described yarn joining cycle, using whether or not a yarn presence signal has been input from the unit control unit 30. However, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 may not output the yarn presence signal, which will be described in detail later.

  The data storage unit 57 has a storage area whose contents can be updated, and is realized by, for example, a rewritable volatile or nonvolatile memory (for example, RAM or EEPROM). The data storage unit 57 can store various parameters for controlling the clearer 15.

  Specifically, the data storage unit 57 can store a plurality of measurement values obtained by the zero point measurement unit 55. That is, the zero point measurement unit 55 does not perform the above zero point measurement process only once, but performs zero point measurement at predetermined time intervals until the yarn 10 enters the detection region 36 of the clearer 15. Repeated several times and obtains the detection value each time. The data storage unit 57 can store the detection value data for a predetermined number of times in chronological order as candidate values for an evaluation zero point, which will be described later.

  Further, the data storage unit 57 includes a foreign matter determination range defined for detecting entry and detachment of fiber waste or the like (foreign matter) into the detection region when the yarn 10 is not present in the detection region 36 of the clearer 15, A reference value serving as a reference for the foreign matter determination range can be stored in the data storage unit 57. The foreign matter determination range and the like will be described in detail later using a graph such as FIG.

  Further, the data storage unit 57 can store an upper limit value and a lower limit value of a normal range indicating a range in which the detection value should normally be taken when the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection area 36 of the clearer 15. The upper limit value and the lower limit value of the normal range are preset threshold values, and the normal range is defined by the threshold values. The normal range is determined such that the width is wider than the width of the foreign object determination range.

  Further, the data storage unit 57 can store a yarn presence / absence determination threshold that is a threshold used as a boundary by which the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines the presence / absence of the yarn 10. A value larger than the upper limit value of the normal range is set as the yarn presence / absence determination threshold value.

  The data storage unit 57 can also store a setting value of an evaluation zero point determined by an evaluation zero point setting unit 58 described later. The yarn state evaluation unit 53 evaluates the state of the yarn 10 using the evaluation zero point as a reference. Specifically, the average value of the difference between the voltage set as the evaluation zero point and the voltage obtained from the sensor unit 35 in a state where the yarn 10 enters the detection region 36 of the clearer 15 is the yarn 10. For monitoring (for example, calculating the average thickness of the yarn 10).

  The evaluation zero point setting unit 58 evaluates based on detection values satisfying a predetermined condition among detection values (evaluation zero point candidate values) obtained by the zero point measurement unit 55 and stored in the data storage unit 57. The zero point value is determined (calculated), and the result is stored in the data storage unit 57 as a new set value. In the present embodiment, storing a new set value of the zero point for evaluation in the data storage unit 57 is referred to as “zero point correction”.

  Next, two factors that reduce the yarn evaluation accuracy (yarn monitoring accuracy) of the sensor unit 35 of the present embodiment will be described. One of the two factors is a change in the environment typified by the temperature drift of the LED employed in the light projecting unit 41, and the other one is a foreign substance that enters the detection region 36.

  Details will be described below. In the clearer 15 including the zero point adjustment unit 54, the zero point measurement unit 55, and the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 as shown in the present embodiment, before starting the evaluation of the yarn 10, generally, Perform preparatory work. That is, first, in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection area 36, the zero point adjustment unit 54 correctly adjusts the light projection amount of the light projection unit 41 of the sensor unit 35 by the above-described zero point adjustment process. Subsequently, in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region 36, the zero point measurement unit 55 acquires the detection value of the sensor unit 35, and the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 sets the evaluation zero point based on the detection value. Set.

  After the above preparatory work is completed, the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36, the yarn winding unit 1 starts winding, and the yarn state evaluation unit 53 evaluates the state of the yarn 10. At this time, the light projecting unit 41 is driven with the drive voltage just adjusted in the above preparation work, and the evaluation zero point set in the above preparation work is used as a reference for evaluating the yarn 10. With the control as described above, the accuracy when evaluating the state of the yarn 10 can be improved.

  However, there is a possibility that the environment such as temperature and humidity may change between the stage where the zero point adjustment process is performed and the evaluation zero point is set until the yarn 10 is actually introduced into the detection region 36. In particular, the clearer 15 of this embodiment is an optical type, and the light projecting unit 41 is composed of LEDs. Therefore, for example, immediately after the clearer 15 is powered on, the time between the time when the zero point adjustment process is performed and the evaluation zero point is set, and the time when the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36, The temperature rises, and the amount of light emitted from the light projecting unit 41 may change due to the temperature drift (thermal drift) of the LED.

  Even when the zero point adjustment process is performed and the evaluation zero point is further set, the amount of light of the light projecting portion 41 is changed after the setting until the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36. This is not preferable because an error occurs in the evaluation of the state of the yarn 10 only. Therefore, it is conceivable that the detection value for determining the evaluation zero point is acquired not immediately after the zero point adjustment processing but at a timing immediately before the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36. By doing so, the influence of temperature drift and the like can be reduced, and accurate yarn evaluation becomes possible.

  However, even if the influence of temperature drift or the like can be reduced by devising the determination timing of the evaluation zero point as described above, it may not be sufficient. That is, it is necessary to consider the possibility that foreign matter such as fiber scraps generated in the yarn winding machine may enter the detection area 36.

  For example, when a foreign object enters the detection area 36 after the zero point adjustment process is performed, the detection value output from the sensor unit 35 after the foreign object has entered is affected by the foreign object, so the state of the yarn 10 is accurately evaluated. I can't. In addition, when the zero point adjustment process is performed in a state where the foreign matter has already entered the detection region 36, the detection value of the sensor unit 35 is affected when the foreign matter is subsequently separated from the detection region 36. Ten states cannot be accurately evaluated.

  In this regard, in the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the intrusion of foreign matter into the detection region 36 and the detection of foreign matter that has entered since the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36 after the zero point adjustment processing is performed. It is configured to detect separation from the region 36 and to perform various processes (hereinafter also referred to as foreign object handling processes).

  Note that when a foreign object enters the detection area 36 or when a foreign object leaves the detection area 36, the detection value changes relatively abruptly. On the other hand, when the light quantity of the light projecting unit 41 decreases due to temperature drift, the detected value fluctuates relatively slowly. Using this, the clearer 15 of the present embodiment can detect a change (intrusion / detachment) of the intrusion state of a foreign object clearly distinguishing it from a temperature drift.

  Next, the control of the clearer control unit 50 of the present embodiment in various cases will be described in detail with reference to the graphs of FIGS.

  As described above, the zero point measurement unit 55 repeats the detection value at appropriate time intervals until the introduction of the yarn 10 into the detection region 36 is detected after the zero point adjustment unit 54 performs the zero point adjustment process. And get it. In the graph of FIG. 6, detection values acquired at timings from t1 to t25 are shown with the horizontal axis representing time and the vertical axis representing detection values. In the graph of FIG. 6, the foreign matter determination range, the normal range, and the yarn presence / absence determination threshold are also shown.

  The zero point measurement unit 55 repeats the acquisition of the detection value with the timing of t1, the timing of t2,. The obtained detection values are sequentially stored in the data storage unit 57 as evaluation zero candidate values.

  Note that, at t1, which is the first acquisition timing after the zero point adjustment processing is completed, the acquired detection value is stored in the data storage unit 57 as a reference value that defines a foreign substance determination range described later.

  Then, based on this reference value, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 sets a foreign object determination range that is a range in which a detection value acquired at the next time (timing t2) is to be entered. This foreign matter determination range is a range that is set to detect entry of foreign matter into and out of the detection region 36, and the reference value is determined as the median value.

  When the zero point measurement unit 55 acquires the detection value at the timing t2, the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 determines whether or not the detection value obtained this time is within the foreign matter determination range. In the example of FIG. 6, the detection value at the timing t2 is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range based on the detection value (reference value) at the timing t1. Therefore, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 now stores the detection value at the timing t2 as the reference value in the data storage unit 57 again, sets the foreign object determination range again based on the new reference value, and the timing at t3. It is determined whether or not the detected value is within the foreign object determination range. The above determination process is repeated at the timing of t4, the timing of t5,..., And accordingly, the foreign object determination range is updated one after another.

  In addition, not only the determination based on the foreign substance determination range but also other determinations are performed for each detection value. Specifically, the zero point adjustment unit 54 applies the detection value obtained at each timing to a normal range that is predetermined as a range that the detection value should normally take in the state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region 36. It is determined whether or not a detection value is entered. Further, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines whether or not the detected value is equal to or greater than a predetermined yarn presence / absence determination threshold with respect to the detection value acquired at each timing. The normal range is usually set so as to include the foreign object determination range, but the foreign object determination range may protrude from the normal range. Further, the above-described yarn presence / absence determination threshold is set to a value that is out of the foreign matter determination range.

  Eventually, since the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36, the detection value acquired by the zero point measurement unit 55 greatly increases at the timing t25. Since the detection value obtained at the timing t25 exceeds the yarn presence / absence determination threshold value, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines that the yarn 10 has been introduced into the detection region 36 (with yarn). At this time, the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 sets the detected value (detected value at the timing t24 in the example of FIG. 6) acquired immediately before the point when it is determined that there is a thread as the evaluation zero point. To do. When the zero point correction is performed as described above, and the traveling of the yarn 10 is started thereafter, the yarn state evaluation unit 53 evaluates the yarn 10 based on the set evaluation zero point.

  In the example of FIG. 6, due to the influence of the temperature drift of the light projecting unit 41 described above, the detection value is not so strong as to deviate from the normal range shown in FIG. Due to this influence, there is a certain degree of difference between the detection value at t1 which is the timing immediately after the zero point adjustment processing and the detection value at t24 which is the timing immediately before it is determined that there is a thread. In this regard, the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 of the present embodiment uses the detection value at the timing t24 close to the timing determined as having a yarn as the evaluation zero point, so the influence of the temperature drift is reduced. The yarn state evaluation unit 53 can accurately evaluate the yarn 10.

  However, the evaluation zero point is not limited to using the detection value at the timing t24 as described above. For example, a detection value at a time point that is a predetermined margin backward from the time when it is determined that there is a thread may be used as an evaluation zero point, and an average value is calculated based on a plurality of detection values for evaluation purposes. It is good also as a zero point.

  Next, a case where the detection value changes as shown in FIG. 7 will be described. In the example of FIG. 7, although the detection value at the timings t1 to t3 does not show much fluctuation, the detection value at the timing of t4 increases slightly sharply as a result of foreign matter entering the detection area 36 between t3 and t4. However, the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range based on the detection value (reference value) at the timing of t3 is exceeded.

  In the case of FIG. 7 as well, the zero point measurement unit 55 repeats the acquisition of the detection value with the timing of t1, the timing of t2,... Are sequentially stored in the data storage unit 57. Further, the reference value and the foreign substance determination range are updated in the same manner as in FIG.

  However, since the detected value at the timing t4 exceeds the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range, the foreign matter response processing unit 59 stops updating the reference value and the foreign matter determination range. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the detection value at the next timing t5 is not in t4 but in the foreign matter determination range based on the detection value (reference value) at the timing t3.

  When the detected value is out of the foreign substance determination range as at the timing t4, the detected value is not stored in the data storage unit 57 as a candidate value for the evaluation zero point. It is never used. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent such a suddenly changed irregular detected value from being adopted as the evaluation zero point.

  Since the foreign matter remains in the detection region 36, the detection value at the timing t5 is not so different from the detection value at the time t4, and the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range based on the detection value (reference value) at the timing t3. The same applies to the timing of t6 thereafter, the timing of t7, and so on. At the timing t22 when this state continues for a predetermined time (foreign matter determination time), the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 has entered the detection region 36 (the accuracy of the thread evaluation may have been lowered due to the foreign matter. Judgment)

  Thereafter, it is assumed that the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36 and the detection value is significantly increased at the timing of t25 and becomes equal to or greater than the yarn presence / absence determination threshold as in the case of FIG. The yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines that there is a thread, but the foreign matter handling unit 59 that determines that a foreign matter has entered prevents the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 from trying to output a yarn presence signal. As a result, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 (clearer control unit 50) does not output a yarn presence signal.

  Here, the unit controller 30 that has rotated the first yarn catching device 12 and the second yarn catching device 13 from the state of FIG. 1 to the state of FIG. 3 has introduced the yarn 10 into the detection region 36 of the clearer 15. This is confirmed based on a yarn presence signal from the clearer control unit 50. This time, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 does not cause the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 to output a yarn presence signal even if the yarn 10 is actually introduced into the detection region 36 (that is, the clearer control unit 50 detects that the yarn 10 is detected). It behaves as if it has not been introduced into region 36).

  Since the yarn presence signal is not input from the clearer control unit 50 even after waiting for a predetermined time, the unit control unit 30 may cause the first yarn catching device 12 or the second yarn catching device 13 to miss catching the yarn 10, etc. It is determined that the introduction of the yarn 10 into the detection area 36 of the clearer 15 has failed. Accordingly, the unit control unit 30 stops the yarn joining operation by the yarn joining device 14 and temporarily returns the first yarn catching device 12 and the second yarn catching device 13 to the state shown in FIG. Try again. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the winding of the yarn 10 from being started in a state where the clearer 15 cannot accurately evaluate the yarn due to the influence of the foreign matter.

  At the initial stage of the yarn splicing cycle to be performed again, a process (foreign matter removal process) in which the clearer control unit 50 drives the compressed air solenoid valve 48 to inject air from the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152. Done. Accordingly, since the foreign matter that has entered the detection area 36 is likely to be blown away by air, it is expected that the foreign substance will not be adversely affected in the next zero point adjustment processing and the evaluation zero point setting.

  After the air is injected so as to remove the foreign matter in the detection region 36, the zero point adjusting unit 54 performs the zero point adjusting process again in the clearer control unit 50, and then the zero point measuring unit 55 is connected to the sensor unit 35. The detection value is acquired repeatedly again. At this time, for example, when the detected value transitions as shown in FIG. 6 and the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36, the evaluation zero point is determined as described above, and the yarn state is determined using the evaluation zero point. The evaluation unit 53 evaluates the yarn 10.

  As described above, in the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, when the foreign object handling unit 59 determines that a foreign object has entered the detection area 36 based on the behavior of the detection value output from the sensor unit 35, A process (foreign matter handling process) for preventing output of a thread presence signal when the determination unit 56 determines that there is a thread is performed. As a result, as the yarn joining cycle is restarted, the cleaning of the detection region 36 by the ejection of air from the first blower outlet 151 and the second blower outlet 152 and the zero point readjustment by the zero point adjustment unit 54 are performed. Performed (therefore, zero point correction is redone).

  Therefore, it can also be said that the foreign matter handling unit 59 substantially performs the removal of foreign matter by the ejection of air from the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152 and the readjustment of the zero point. As a result, it is possible to satisfactorily prevent adverse effects due to foreign matters during zero point adjustment and zero point correction, so that the yarn state evaluation unit 53 can accurately evaluate the state of the yarn 10.

  Next, a case where the detection value changes as shown in FIG. 8 will be described. In the example of FIG. 8, the detection value at the timing t4 increases slightly sharply, and the detection value at the timing t5 shows almost the same detection value as the timing t4, but the detection value at the timing t6 decreases to almost the same value as the timing t3. doing. This indicates that the foreign matter has entered the detection area 36 between t3 and t4, but the foreign matter has not left for a long time and has left between t5 and t6.

  When the transition of the detection value is described in relation to the foreign object determination range, the detection value at the timing t4 exceeds the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range determined based on the detection value at the timing t3, and The detection value is also exceeded, but the detection value at the timing t6 is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range. That is, the time during which the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range has been continuously exceeded is shorter than the foreign object determination time (see FIG. 7). Therefore, in this case, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 does not determine that a foreign object has entered (the possibility that the accuracy of the yarn evaluation has decreased due to the influence of the foreign object has increased).

  As described above, the detected value at the timing of t6 is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range determined based on the detected value (reference value) at the timing of t3. Therefore, the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 sets the detection value at the timing t6 as a new reference value, redefines the foreign matter determination range so that the reference value becomes a reference, and a data storage unit regarding the reference value and the foreign matter determination range. The stored content of 57 is updated. The detection values at the timings t4 and t5 are not stored in the data storage unit 57 as the evaluation zero point candidate values because they are outside the foreign object determination range, but the detected values are within the foreign object determination range. At the timing of t <b> 6 when returning to, the detected value is stored in the data storage unit 57. Thereafter, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 monitors whether or not a sharp fluctuation of the detected value (that is, a fluctuation that deviates from the foreign substance determination range) appears again.

  In the example of FIG. 8, the detected value does not show a large fluctuation until the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36 after the timing t6. When the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36 and the detection value increases greatly at the timing t25 and exceeds the yarn presence / absence determination threshold value, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines that there is a yarn. Since the foreign object handling processing unit 59 did not determine that a foreign object has entered, the yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 outputs a yarn presence signal as usual, and the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 sets the detected value of the timing at t24 to the evaluation zero. Set as a point. Thereafter, as the winding of the yarn 10 starts, the yarn state evaluation unit 53 monitors the yarn 10.

  As described above, when the foreign matter has once entered the detection area 36 but has left in a short period of time, it is considered that the foreign matter has not entered, so the foreign matter handling processing by the foreign matter handling unit 59 is not performed, and the normal processing is not performed. Processing is performed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the meaningless foreign matter handling process from being performed and to improve the efficiency of the yarn winding machine.

  Note that the phenomenon in which the detection value once sharply increases as shown in FIG. 8 but returns to the original value in a short time may occur due to factors other than the foreign matter. For example, when the doffing operation described above is performed, the detection value of the sensor unit 35 becomes very unstable even though the doffing operation itself is normally performed, and the foreign matter determination range described above. May be temporarily removed. However, in the doffing operation, such fluctuations do not continue for as long as the foreign matter determination time described above, and the fluctuating detection values are almost restored to their original values in a short time. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent unnecessary foreign matter handling processing from being performed during normal doffing work, and in this sense, the efficiency of the yarn winding machine can be improved.

  Next, a case where the detection value changes as shown in FIG. 9 will be described. The example of FIG. 9 shows a case where the influence of the temperature drift of the light projecting unit 41 appears strongly, and the detected value shows a stronger increasing tendency than in the case of FIG. 6 immediately after the zero point adjustment. However, the increment of the detection value once per time is within the foreign matter determination range described above.

  The detection value that increases with each acquisition eventually exceeds the upper limit of the normal range. The zero point adjustment unit 54, which has detected that the detection value acquired at the timing t19 exceeds the upper limit value of the normal range, performs the zero point adjustment process again. Accordingly, the zero point measurement process and the zero point correction are performed again after the zero point adjustment process is completed.

  When an unacceptable temperature drift occurs due to the above processing, the zero point adjustment processing can be performed again by the zero point adjustment unit 54. That is, by re-adjusting the driving voltage of the light projecting unit 41, the influence of the temperature drift can be strongly eliminated, and the state of the yarn 10 can be accurately evaluated.

  In the above example, the zero point adjustment process is performed again when the detected value exceeds the upper limit of the normal range even once. However, instead of this, when the detected value continuously exceeds the predetermined zero point adjustment determination time (light projection adjustment determination time), the zero point adjustment unit 54 performs the zero point adjustment process again. May be. In this case, for example, useless zero point adjustment processing due to noise appearing in the detection value can be prevented.

  Incidentally, the increase in the detection value due to the temperature drift as shown in FIG. 9 has a different characteristic from the increase in the detection value due to the intrusion of foreign matter as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. That is, when the detection value increases due to the effect of temperature drift, the amount of increase with respect to the detection value at the previous timing is relatively small and smooth compared to the case of foreign object intrusion, so the time interval for acquiring the detection value As long as is sufficiently short, it is extremely unlikely that the above-mentioned foreign object determination range will be exceeded. In fact, in the example of FIG. 9, since the individual detection values until the detection value exceeds the upper limit value of the normal range at the timing of t19 have never deviated from the foreign matter determination range, Do not judge that it has entered. For this reason, the foreign matter handling processing (processing for blocking the output of the yarn presence signal) is not performed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when a sharp change appears once in the detected value and the state after the change continues for a predetermined time, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 determines that the intrusion state of the foreign object has changed. It is configured to perform the corresponding process. Therefore, for example, it can be prevented that the influence of the temperature drift is erroneously determined to be due to the foreign matter and the wasteful foreign matter handling process is performed.

  Next, a case where the detection value changes as shown in FIG. 10 will be described. In the example of FIG. 10, contrary to the case of FIG. 7, the detection value at the timing t4 is below the lower limit value of the foreign matter determination range based on the detection value (reference value) at t3. continuing. This is because the zero point adjustment processing is performed in a state in which foreign matter has entered the detection region 36, and then the foreign matter has remained in the detection region 36 until the timing t3, but the foreign matter has been detached from t3 to t4. It is thought that.

  In this case, the foreign substance handling processing unit 59 performs substantially the same processing as in FIG. Specifically, since the detection value at the timing t4 is below the lower limit value of the foreign object determination range based on the detection value (reference value) at the timing t3, the foreign object response processing unit 59 stops updating the foreign object determination range. To do. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the detection value at the next timing t5 is within the foreign substance determination range of the detection value (reference value) at the timing t3.

  In the example of FIG. 10, the detection value at the timing t5 is also below the lower limit value of the foreign object determination range based on the detection value at the timing t3, and this state is the timing at t6, the timing at t7,. continue. The foreign object handling processing unit 59 determines that the foreign object has left the detection area 36 at the timing t22 when the state continues for a predetermined time (foreign object determination time). Therefore, as in the case of FIG. 7 where it is determined that a foreign object has entered, the foreign object handling unit 59 outputs a yarn presence signal to the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 even if the yarn 10 is introduced into the detection region 36. Stop and encourage redo of the yarn splicing cycle. Thereby, since the zero point adjustment and the zero point correction can be performed again in a state where the foreign matter is detached, the yarn state evaluation unit 53 can accurately evaluate the state of the yarn 10.

  Next, specific processing performed by the zero point adjustment unit 54, the zero point measurement unit 55, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56, the evaluation zero point setting unit 58, the foreign object handling processing unit 59, and the like of the clearer control unit 50 is illustrated in FIG. This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the zero point adjustment process and the zero point measurement process shown in FIG. 11, when the clearer 15 is turned on, the yarn 10 is divided for some reason and disappears from the detection area 36 of the clearer 15, and the above-described yarn joining cycle is performed. It is executed every time The yarn 10 is divided when the clearer 15 finds the above-mentioned yarn defect when the yarn is monitored and cuts the yarn 10 by the cutter 16, and the package 20 becomes full and the cutter 16 cuts the yarn. This includes the case where 10 is cut and the case where thread breakage occurs.

  Thus, by performing the zero point adjustment process and the zero point measurement process frequently, even if there is a change in the surrounding environment or dirt adheres to the light projecting part 41, the light receiving part 42, etc. of the clearer 15, the yarn 10 monitoring can be performed stably. Further, as described above, air from the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152 is injected at the initial stage of the yarn splicing cycle, and then the processing of FIG. 11 is started, so that foreign matter has entered the detection region 36. It is possible to prevent the zero point adjustment process and the zero point measurement process from being performed.

  When the process of FIG. 11 is started in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection area 36 of the clearer 15, the zero point adjustment process is first performed by the zero point adjustment unit 54, and the drive voltage of the light projecting unit 41 in the sensor unit 35 is detected. Is adjusted as described above (step S101). When the zero point adjustment process is completed, a process for initializing the foreign substance intrusion change flag to 0 is performed (step S102). Immediately thereafter, iterative acquisition processing (steps S103 to S110) of the detection value by the zero point measurement unit 55 is started.

  Specifically, the zero point measurement unit 55 controls the sensor unit 35 so as to apply the drive voltage adjusted by the zero point adjustment process to the light projecting unit 41, and detects the detection value actually output by the sensor unit 35. Acquire (the above zero point measurement process, step S103). Thereafter, the yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines whether or not the detection value acquired by the zero point measurement unit 55 is equal to or greater than the yarn presence / absence determination threshold (step S104). When the detected value is below the yarn presence / absence determination threshold, the zero point adjustment unit 54 determines whether the detected value is in the normal range, that is, the detected value is above the lower limit value of the normal range and below the upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (step S105). If the detected value is greater than or equal to the upper limit of the normal range, it is considered that an unacceptable temperature drift has occurred, and the process returns to step S101. As a result, the zero point adjustment unit 54 performs the zero point readjustment, and the subsequent processing is performed again.

  If it is determined in step S105 that the detected value exceeds the lower limit value of the normal range and falls below the upper limit value, the foreign object handling unit 59 determines that the detected value is a foreign object determined based on the previous detected value (reference value). It is determined whether it is within the determination range (step S106). When the detected value is within the foreign object determination range (that is, when the detected value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range), the foreign object handling processing unit 59 uses the detected value obtained this time as a reference value as a data storage unit. The foreign object determination range is newly determined based on the reference value and stored in the data storage unit 57 (step S107). Further, the zero point measurement unit 55 stores the detection value obtained this time in the data storage unit 57 separately from the reference value as a candidate value for use in setting the evaluation zero point (step S108).

  If it is determined in step S106 that the foreign object determination range is not satisfied (that is, if the foreign object determination range is below the lower limit value or exceeds the upper limit value), the foreign object handling processing unit 59 further includes: In step S109, it is determined whether or not a state outside the foreign matter determination range continues for a predetermined time (that is, the foreign matter determination time). When the state outside the foreign object determination range continues for the foreign object determination time, the foreign object response processing unit 59 determines that the foreign object has entered or detached, and sets the foreign object intrusion change flag to 1 (step S110). The process returns to step S103. If it is determined in step S109 that the time when the state outside the foreign object determination range continues is less than the foreign object determination time, the foreign object intrusion change flag is maintained at 0 (the foreign object intrusion change flag is set to 1). (S110 is skipped) and the process returns to step S103.

  If it is determined in step S104 that the detected value is equal to or greater than the yarn presence / absence determination threshold, the state of the foreign matter intrusion change flag is checked (step S111). When the foreign matter intrusion change flag is 0, it means that the foreign matter handling unit 59 has not determined that foreign matter has entered or left. Therefore, in this case, the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 sets the evaluation zero point based on the detection value stored in the data storage unit 57 by the zero point measurement unit 55 in step S108 (step S112). Specifically, the evaluation zero point setting unit 58 uses the latest detection value acquired immediately before the timing when it is determined that there is a thread among the plurality of detection values stored in the time series in the data storage unit 57. The zero point for evaluation is set and stored in the data storage unit 57. Subsequently, the yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 outputs a yarn presence signal (step S113). The unit control unit 30 to which the yarn presence signal is input immediately performs the yarn joining operation by the yarn joining device 14 as necessary, and then starts the winding of the yarn 10 by the winding unit 18. The yarn state evaluation unit 53 evaluates the yarn 10 traveling in the detection region 36 based on the new evaluation zero point value (step S114).

  If the foreign object intrusion change flag is 1 in step S111, it means that the foreign object handling processing unit 59 has determined that the foreign object has entered / leaved. Accordingly, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 prevents the yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 from outputting a yarn presence signal that should normally be output, and stops in that state (step S115). As a result, the clearer 15 behaves as if the yarn 10 is not positioned even if the yarn 10 is actually set and the yarn 10 is positioned in the detection region 36. Since the yarn presence signal is not input even after waiting for a predetermined time, the unit control unit 30 regards that the introduction of the yarn 10 into the detection area 36 of the clearer 15 has failed, and repeats the yarn joining cycle. In the initial stage of the newly started yarn splicing cycle, air is injected from the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152, so that even if foreign matter has entered the detection area 36, it can be blown off and removed. Thereafter, the processing shown in the flow of FIG. 11 is performed again from the beginning.

  Through the above processing, the yarn state evaluation unit 53 of the clearer control unit 50 accurately eliminates the influence of intrusion / detachment of foreign matter and the temperature drift of the light projecting unit 41, and accurately corrects the state of the yarn 10. Can be evaluated.

  At the time when the foreign matter intrusion change flag is set to 1 (step S110), or when the foreign matter intrusion change flag is stopped without outputting the yarn presence signal (step S115), the display lamp 46 and the display 47 display the foreign matter intrusion / Control is performed to indicate that a withdrawal has occurred. As a result, it is possible to easily notify the operator of an abnormality in the detection value caused by the foreign matter.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 11, it is depicted in step S106 that it is determined whether or not the detected value is in the foreign object determination range, but in actuality, the detected value exceeds the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range. Whether it is below the lower limit value of the foreign matter determination range, or not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign matter determination range. If the detected value exceeds the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range, the fact that the foreign object has entered is displayed on the display 47, and if the detected value is lower than the lower limit value of the foreign object determination range, it indicates that the foreign object has left It is configured to display on the display 47. Therefore, it is possible to clearly notify the operator whether the abnormality is due to the intrusion of the foreign matter or the abnormality due to the separation.

  In the present embodiment, the foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit 59 is to directly prevent the yarn presence / absence judgment unit 56 from outputting a yarn presence signal, and includes the first outlet 151 and the second outlet. The ejection of air from the outlet 152 and the readjustment of the zero point are realized as a result by blocking the output of the yarn presence signal (therefore, in the foreign matter handling process described above, the foreign matter intrusion signal / foreign matter detachment signal). No foreign object detection signal is output). However, even with such a configuration, it can be understood that the foreign matter handling unit 59 is substantially ejecting air or readjusting the zero point. Of course, the foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit 59 (clearer control unit 50) is a process of outputting a signal (foreign matter removal request signal) for injecting air to the detection region 36 to the compressed air solenoid valve 48. good. Further, the foreign object handling process may include a process of directly outputting a signal so that the zero point adjustment unit 54 performs the zero point adjustment process again after removing the foreign object.

  In addition, as the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit 59, the above foreign matter detection signal is output instead of or in addition to blocking the output of the yarn presence / absence judgment unit 56 from the presence of the yarn presence signal. It can also be changed. For example, the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 transmits a foreign matter intrusion signal / foreign matter leaving signal to the unit control unit 30, and the unit control unit 30 that has received the signal stops the yarn joining operation by the yarn joining device 14 and performs the yarn joining cycle. It is conceivable to configure such that redo is performed (that is, resumption of winding is prevented).

  Various other foreign substance handling processes performed by the foreign substance handling processing unit 59 are conceivable. For example, a winding prevention signal for preventing the winding unit 18 from starting winding may be considered. In addition, when the yarn joining signal for requesting the yarn joining is input in the middle of the yarn joining cycle, the unit control unit 30 is configured so that the yarn joining cycle is restarted from the beginning. As the corresponding process, a process of outputting the yarn joining signal to the unit controller 30 may be performed. As described above, various measures can be taken against the entry / extraction of foreign matter.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 12, the foreign object determination range can be determined to be a fixed range. In the example of the graph of FIG. 12, the foreign object determination range is defined to have a predetermined width with reference to the adjustment reference value in the above-described zero point adjustment processing. In this modification, even if the detection value acquired by the zero point measurement unit 55 varies, the foreign object determination range does not vary and is constant. In the example of FIG. 12, the normal range includes a foreign object determination range and is set to be wider than the foreign object determination range.

  In the example of FIG. 12 in which the foreign matter determination range is set to be a fixed range, it is difficult to distinguish and detect the temperature drift and the entry / extraction of the foreign matter. However, when temperature drift does not become a problem, for example, when sufficient time has passed since the power to the clearer 15 is turned on, or when a high-performance LED is used as the light projecting unit 41, foreign matter determination Even if the range is fixed, the entry / extraction of foreign matter can be detected well.

  As described above, the clearer 15 according to the present embodiment includes the light projecting unit 41, the light receiving unit 42, and the clearer control unit 50. The light projecting unit 41 projects light onto the detection area 36 where the yarn 10 can travel. The light receiving unit 42 receives the light projected from the light projecting unit 41 and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of received light. A detection value corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 42 is input to the clearer control unit 50. The clearer control unit 50 includes a yarn state evaluation unit 53, a zero point adjustment unit 54, and a foreign matter handling processing unit 59. The yarn state evaluation unit 53 evaluates the state of the yarn 10 existing in the detection area 36 based on the detection value. The zero point adjustment unit 54 performs a zero point adjustment process for adjusting the drive control value of the light projecting unit 41 so that the detection value becomes a predetermined value in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region 36. The foreign object handling processing unit 59 performs the foreign object handling process when the detected value falls outside the predetermined foreign object judgment range for a predetermined foreign object judgment time in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection area 36. The zero point adjustment unit 54 has the detection value deviated from the normal range which is a detection value range set in advance so as to have a width wider than the width of the foreign matter determination range in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region. In this case, the zero point adjustment process is performed again.

  As a result, if the detection value in the state where the yarn 10 is not present in the detection area 36 deviates from the foreign object determination range for a predetermined foreign object determination time, it is determined that the foreign object intrusion state has changed, and the predetermined foreign object determination process Therefore, it is possible to appropriately cope with the entry / extraction of foreign matter. Also, since the detection value is based on the condition that the foreign object determination range has deviated continuously for a predetermined foreign object determination time, for example, the detection value input to the clearer control unit 50 becomes unstable during normal doffing work. However, it is possible to prevent erroneous determination that the foreign object intrusion state has changed.

  In the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the zero point adjustment unit 54 is in a state where the detected value deviates from the normal range for a predetermined zero point adjustment determination time in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region 36. You may comprise so that a zero point adjustment process may be performed again.

  In this case, for example, useless zero point adjustment processing due to noise appearing in the detection value can be prevented.

  Further, the clearer 15 of the present embodiment includes a first air outlet 151, a second air outlet 152, and a compressed air electromagnetic valve 48 in order to remove foreign substances present in the detection region 36. Is provided. The foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit 59 includes processing for operating the foreign matter removing apparatus.

  Thereby, the foreign substance of the detection area | region 36 can be removed, and it can be set as the state suitable for a zero point adjustment process.

  Further, in the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the foreign matter removing device removes foreign matter by blowing air to the detection region 36.

  Thereby, the foreign material existing in the detection region 36 can be removed with a simple configuration.

  In the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the foreign object handling process performed by the foreign object handling process unit 59 includes causing the zero point adjustment unit 54 to perform the zero point adjustment process again.

  Thereby, the zero point adjustment process is performed again, so that the influence of foreign matter on the detected value can be effectively eliminated.

  Further, the clearer 15 of the present embodiment includes a yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 that determines whether or not the yarn 10 is located in the detection region 36. In the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit 59, even if the yarn presence / absence judgment unit 56 determines that the yarn 10 is located in the detection region 36, it behaves as if the yarn 10 is not located in the detection region 36. Is included.

  That is, when the foreign matter handling unit 59 determines that a foreign matter has entered or left, the clearer 15 cannot accurately evaluate the yarn 10 due to the influence of the foreign matter, so that the yarn winding machine starts winding. It is not appropriate to be done. Therefore, in this case, the clearer 15 behaves as if the yarn 10 is not set, so that it is possible to reliably prevent the winding from starting thereafter.

  In the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 determines whether or not the yarn 10 is located on the yarn path in the detection region 36.

  Thereby, the clearer 15 can detect reliably whether the thread | yarn 10 exists in a thread path. In addition, when the foreign matter handling unit 59 determines that a foreign matter has entered or left, the clearer 15 can behave as if the yarn 10 does not exist on the yarn path.

  However, in the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit 59, processing for outputting a foreign matter signal, processing for outputting a winding prevention signal for preventing the winding unit 18 from starting winding of the yarn 10, and the yarn joining device At least one of processes for outputting a yarn joining signal for performing the yarn joining may be included.

  As a result, various foreign matter handling processes can be performed.

  Further, the clearer 15 of this embodiment includes a display lamp 46 and a display 47. The display lamp 46 and the display 47 perform notification when the detected value is out of the foreign object determination range continuously for a foreign object determination time in a state where the yarn 10 does not exist in the detection region 36.

  Thereby, the operator operating the yarn winding machine (yarn winding unit 1) can grasp the intrusion and detachment of the foreign matter from the detection area 36 by the display lamp 46 and the display 47. Also, the operator can manually stop the winding of the yarn winding machine by the notification.

  In the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the display 47 that notifies the operator is configured as a display device that can display at least one of characters, symbols, and figures.

  Thereby, it is possible to notify the operator with a simple configuration. Further, by displaying characters or the like on the screen, detailed contents can be notified to the operator.

  Further, in the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the display lamp 46 that notifies the operator is configured as a lamp that can be turned on.

  This also makes it possible to notify the operator with a simple configuration. Further, since the situation regarding the foreign matter can be notified by the lighting state of the lamp, it is easy for the operator to confirm the entry / extraction of the foreign matter from a distance.

  Further, in the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the foreign object handling unit 59 does not have the yarn 10 in the detection area 36, and the detected value exceeds the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range as shown in FIG. When the state outside the determination range continues for a predetermined time (specifically, the foreign object determination time), it is determined that the foreign object has entered the detection area 36. Further, the foreign matter handling unit 59 is in a state in which the detected value exceeds the lower limit of the foreign matter judgment range and deviates from the foreign matter judgment range as shown in FIG. (Specifically, the foreign object determination time) When it continues, it is determined that the foreign object has left the detection area 36.

  As a result, the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 can distinguish and determine whether foreign matter has entered and left the detection region 36.

  In the clearer 15 of the present embodiment, the foreign object determination range is relatively determined based on a reference value that is a past detection value. If the detected value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range, the foreign object handling processing unit 59 uses the new foreign object determination range in which the detected value is set as the reference value in the next determination. .

  As a result, the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 can grasp with high accuracy whether or not the foreign matter intrusion state into the detection region 36 has changed.

  However, the foreign matter determination range may be fixedly determined as shown in the example of FIG.

  In this case, it is possible to simply determine the entry / exit of a foreign substance.

  Further, the clearer 15 of the present embodiment includes a yarn presence / absence determining unit 56 that determines whether or not the yarn 10 is located in the detection region 36. The yarn presence / absence determination unit 56 determines that the yarn 10 is located in the detection region 36 when the detected value is equal to or greater than a predetermined yarn presence / absence determination threshold. The yarn presence / absence determination threshold is set to a value outside the foreign matter determination range.

  Thereby, the clearer 15 can distinguish the presence of the yarn 10 from foreign matters such as fiber scraps.

  The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but the above configuration can be modified as follows, for example.

  The foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit 59 may be different depending on whether it is determined that a foreign matter has entered the detection area 36 and when it is determined that the foreign matter has left the detection area 36. For example, in the case of FIG. 7 in which a foreign object has entered, air is injected from the first outlet 151 and the second outlet 152 in order to remove the foreign substance, while the foreign object is detached in the case of FIG. It is possible not to perform the above-described air injection.

  The configuration for blowing air to the detection region 36 is not limited to the above configuration. For example, one of the first air outlet 151 and the second air outlet 152 may be omitted. In addition, an air nozzle may not be formed in the housing 37 but an air nozzle may be formed at the tip of an appropriate pipe installed outside, and air may be ejected from the air nozzle to the recess 38.

  Further, it is possible to remove foreign matter without using air. For example, a foreign matter removing device for cleaning by inserting a thin brush into the recess 38 formed in the housing 37 of the clearer 15 may be provided.

  Further, the configuration for removing the foreign matter may be omitted, and the display lamp 46 and the display 47 may prompt the operator to remove the foreign matter from the recess 38 manually.

  In the above embodiment, the light receiving unit 42 that receives the transmitted light that is the light that is irradiated from the light projecting unit 41 toward the yarn 10 and passes through the yarn 10 is used to determine the intrusion / detachment of the foreign matter from the detection region 36. The configuration. However, it is also possible to use a light receiving unit that receives reflected light, which is light that is irradiated from the light projecting unit 41 toward the yarn 10 and reflected by the yarn 10, to determine whether foreign matter has entered or detached.

  In the above embodiment, the clearer 15 includes the cutter 16 and can cut the yarn 10 when a yarn defect is detected. However, a yarn monitoring device that does not include the cutter 16 may be used. That is, the yarn monitoring device of the present invention may be a device that only monitors the yarn state.

  In the above embodiment, since the inversion process is performed by the amplifier 43 disposed at the subsequent stage of the light receiving unit 42, the output voltage of the amplifier 43 decreases as the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 42 increases. However, an amplifier that does not perform inversion processing as described above may be used. In this case, since the vertical axes of the graphs shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 and 12 are reversed upside down, the magnitude relationship of the detected values is reversed in the determination regarding the entry / extraction of the foreign matter, the normal range, and the presence / absence of the thread. become.

  The yarn winding machine is not limited to a spinning machine or an automatic winder, and may be a yarn winding machine having another configuration.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Thread winding unit of yarn winding machine 14 Yarn splicing device 15 Clearer (Thread monitoring device)
18 Winding unit 36 Detection area 41 Light projecting unit 42 Light receiving unit 46 Display lamp (notification device, illumination device)
47 Display (notification device, display device)
48 Solenoid valve for compressed air (part of foreign matter removing device)
50 Clearer control unit (control unit)
53 Yarn State Evaluation Unit (Evaluation Unit)
54 Zero point adjustment unit (light projection adjustment unit)
56 Yarn presence / absence determination unit 59 Foreign matter handling processing unit 151 First outlet (part of foreign matter removing device)
152 2nd outlet (part of foreign matter removing device)

Claims (18)

A light projecting unit that projects light onto a detection area where the yarn can travel;
A light receiving unit for receiving the light projected from the light projecting unit;
A control unit to which a detection value corresponding to the amount of light received by the light receiving unit is input;
With
The controller is
An evaluation unit that evaluates the state of the yarn existing in the detection region based on the detection value;
A light projecting adjustment unit that performs a light projecting adjustment process for adjusting a drive control value of the light projecting unit so that the detected value becomes a predetermined value in a state where a yarn does not exist in the detection region;
A foreign matter handling unit that performs a foreign matter handling process when the detected value falls outside a predetermined foreign matter judging time for a predetermined foreign matter judging time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region;
With
The light emission adjustment unit is configured so that the detection value is out of a normal range that is a range of detection values set in advance so as to have a width wider than the width of the foreign matter determination range in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. In the case of a yarn monitoring device, the light projection adjustment process is performed again. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1,
The light projecting adjustment unit performs the light projecting adjustment process again when the detected value deviates from the normal range for a predetermined light projecting adjustment determination time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. Yarn monitoring device characterized by The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1 or 2,
A foreign matter removing device for removing foreign matter present in the detection region;
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit includes a process of operating the foreign matter removing apparatus. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 3,
The yarn monitoring device, wherein the foreign matter removing device removes foreign matter by blowing air onto the detection area. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit includes causing the light projecting adjustment unit to perform the light projecting adjustment processing again. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A yarn presence / absence determination unit for determining whether a yarn is located in the detection region;
In the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit, even if the yarn presence / absence judgment unit determines that a yarn is located in the detection region, a process that behaves as if the yarn is not located in the detection region. Yarn monitoring device characterized in that it is included. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 6,
The yarn monitoring device, wherein the yarn presence / absence determining unit determines whether or not a yarn is positioned on a yarn path in the detection region. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit includes processing for outputting a foreign matter detection signal. A yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The textile machine including the yarn monitoring device includes a winding unit that winds a yarn to form a package,
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the foreign matter handling processing performed by the foreign matter handling processing unit includes a process of outputting a winding prevention signal for preventing winding of the yarn by the winding unit. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The textile machine including the yarn monitoring device includes a yarn joining device that performs yarn joining,
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the foreign matter handling process performed by the foreign matter handling unit includes a process of outputting a yarn joining signal that causes the yarn joining device to perform yarn joining. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
Equipped with a notification device,
The notification device performs notification when the detected value deviates from the foreign object determination range for the foreign object determination time continuously in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 11,
The yarn monitoring device, wherein the notification device is a display device capable of displaying at least one of characters, symbols, and figures. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 11,
The yarn monitoring device, wherein the notification device is a lighting device that can be turned on. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
The foreign object handling processing unit
When a state in which the detected value exceeds a limit value on one side of the foreign object determination range and is out of the foreign object determination range continues for a predetermined time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region, foreign objects are present in the detection region. Judging that it has entered,
When a state in which the detected value exceeds the limit value on the other side of the foreign object determination range and deviates from the foreign object determination range continues for a predetermined time in a state where no yarn is present in the detection region, the foreign object is detected from the detection region. A yarn monitoring device characterized in that it is determined that it has left. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 14,
The foreign matter determination range is relatively determined based on a reference value that is a past detection value,
When the detected value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value of the foreign object determination range, the foreign object handling processing unit uses the new foreign object determination range in which the detected value is set as the reference value in the next determination. A yarn monitoring device characterized by that. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 14,
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the foreign matter determination range is fixedly determined. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein
A yarn presence / absence determination unit for determining whether a yarn is located in the detection region;
The yarn presence / absence determination unit determines that a yarn is located in the detection region when the detection value is equal to or greater than a predetermined yarn presence / absence determination threshold;
The yarn monitoring apparatus, wherein the yarn presence / absence determination threshold is set to a value outside the foreign matter determination range.   A yarn winding machine comprising the yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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