MXPA98000599A - Methods, appliances, and manufacturing articles to be used in the formation of sliding chavetas of this - Google Patents

Abstract

A slitting and slotting machine includes an upper machining roller and a lower machining roller cooperating to define a machining contact line. Each machining roll includes an alternate series of annular knives that are installed coaxially, annular nozzles and annular mandrels. An insulation network is run through the machining contact line to simultaneously (i) cut the network into strips, (ii) delineate the strips in a way that promotes information on the strips, and (iii) partially form the strips. strips in modified U shapes. Each strip includes a longitudinally extending middle segment and a pair of longitudinally extending side segments, which extend away from the middle segment in a divergent manner to define a longitudinally extending channel. The longitudinally extending grooves are formed by the grooving of the joints of the middle segment and the lateral segments. The delineation / grooves promote the divergent shape of the strip. In an end profile view of the strip, the middle segment and each of the side segments are generally straight and an obtuse angle is defined between each side segment and the middle segment. Each strip is formed in a roll, so that a first length of the strip and a second length of the strip each extend around a common point. At least a portion of the second length is placed within the channel of the first length

Description

METHODS, APPARATUS, AND MANUFACTURING ARTICLES FOR USE IN THE FORMATION OF STATOR SLOT CHAVETAS Technical Field This invention relates to insulation, and more particularly to the isolation of stator slots in electric motors and generators. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Electric motors and generators have many applications. In a typical motor or generator, there is a rotor that rotates inside a stator. The stator includes a plurality of fingers defining stator slots therebetween. The wires are wrapped around the fingers and through the rotor slots to define coils. Each coil must be isolated for proper operation. The insulation, in the form of slotted keys, is inserted into the stator slots to insulate the stator coils. It is common to create slot keys from an insulating strip that is unwound from a roll. Rolled strips are typically created by (i) unwinding a sheet-like insulation net from a roll, (ii) passing the net between the scissors / winding knives to cut the web into insulating strips, and (iii) ) roll the strips into individual rolls. Then, as a separate step, an insulated insulation strip is supplied to a machine that isolates the stators. That machine (i) unrolls the strip from its roll, (ii) cuts the strip into "short" lengths, and (iii) inserts the short lengths into the stator slots. The short lengths are inserted before the installation of the coils in the stator. During the process of inserting the short lengths, they become a little U-shaped in an end profile view. Examples of machines that insert slot keys or insulate slot folds in the stator slots are disclosed in U.S. Patent 2,340,291; 3,616,512; 3,831,255; 3,778,889; 3,778,890; 4,831,716; 4,878,292; 4,854,033; and it . 34,195. A common manufacturing defect associated with stators has to do with the insulation of the stator slots. If a stator slot is not properly insulated, the coil in it short / fails electrically. Although prior methods and apparatus for isolating stator slots are generally effective, this type of manufacturing defect still occurs, and typically renders motors and generators inoperative. Unfortunately, such defects are often not detected until the stators are fully assembled. Typically it is forbidden by the costs to remanufacture a defective stator; consequently, such defects result in considerable losses and expenses. Even worse, such defects are often not detected until after electric motors and generators are placed in service. According to the above, there is a need for improved manufacturing methods, apparatus and articles to form slot keys to decrease manufacturing defects in the stators. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION This invention solves the problems described above in the art by providing improved manufacturing methods, apparatuses and articles to form slotted keys in order to minimize manufacturing defects in the stators. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention simultaneously (i) cut an insulation network into strips, (ii) delineate the strips to promote the formation of the strips, and (iii) partially form the strips in modified U-forms. According to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the marked and partially U-shaped strips are wound into rolls. According to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the strips are flattened and then rolled into rolls. When the rolls of the strips are supplied to a machine that makes the stators, considerable savings are achieved due to the fact that very few of the manufactured stators have manufacturing defects (i.e., the coils do not short / fail electrically). In accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a slitting and slotting machine includes a top machining roller and a bottom machining roll cooperating to define a machining contact line. Each machining roll includes an alternate series of coaxially installed annular knives, annular nozzles, and annular mandrels. An insulation network is run through the machining contact line where it is formed into a plurality of marked strips. Each strip extends longitudinally and has edges extending longitudinally opposite. While a strip is inside the machining contact line, its edges are at least partially curved towards each other so that the insulation piece defines a longitudinally extending channel. Subsequent to the output of the machining contact line, each strip is run through a running contact line defined between the running rollers. According to the first exemplary embodiment, the running contact line generally maintains the U-shape of the strips. In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment, the running contact line flattens the strips. Subsequent to the exit of the running contact line, each strip is formed into a roll. In each roll, a first length of the strip and a second length of the strip extend around a point in common. According to the first exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the second length is placed within the channel of the first length. More particularly, according to the first exemplary embodiment (before and after passing through the running contact line) and the second exemplary embodiment (before flattening on the running contact line), each strip includes a middle segment extending longitudinally and a pair of lateral segments extending longitudinally. The lateral segments extend away from the middle segment in a divergent manner to define the longitudinally extending channel. Longitudinally extending grooves are defined (i.e., formed by grooving) at the junctions of the medial segment and the lateral segments. The grooves / grooves promote the divergence of the lateral segments. In an end profile view of a strip, the middle segment and each of the side segments are generally straight, and an obtuse angle is defined between each side segment and the middle segment. According to the exemplary embodiments, as the insulation network passes through the machining contact line, each edge one strip is cut by a separate pair of annular engagement knives. For each pair of annular meshing knives, one knife belongs to the upper machining roller and the other knife belongs to the lower machining roller. Each strip is at least partially configured on the machining line of contact as it passes between a nozzle and a mandrel between the knives cutting the strip. A pair of annular projections on the nozzle delineate the strip to define the grooves. In addition to participating in cutting, annular knives that are opposite the nozzle bend the edges of the strip around the annular projections to form the channel of the strip. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide improved manufacturing methods, apparatuses and articles for the formation of slot keys in order to minimize the manufacture of defects in the stators. Another object of the present invention is to provide a configured insulation roll, wherein each successive layer is fitted into the previous layer.

Still another object of the present invention is to decrease the manufacturing defects in the stators. Still another object of the present invention is to minimize the losses and expenses associated with the manufacture of electric motors and generators. Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, drawings and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a strip cutting and forming machine according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a schematic top view of portions of the machine of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a perspective view, partly broken away of rotational assemblies, upper and lower, of the machine of Fig. 1, with a strip of insulation that extends from the machining contact line. Figure 4 is an elevational, partially exploded view of the portions of the upper and lower rotational assemblies of Figure 3. Figure 5 is an elevational, partially exploded, insulated view of a nozzle of rotational assemblies of Figure 3. Figure 6 is an isolated end profile view of the insulation strip of Figure 3. Figure 7 is a top view, partially exploded, isolated, of the isolation strip of the figure 3. Figure 8 is a perspective view of an insulation strip formed on a roll, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS As summarized above, the present invention provides improved manufacturing methods, apparatuses and articles for the formation of slotted keys in order to minimize manufacturing defects in the stators.

The exemplary embodiments of this invention are described below in detail, with reference to the drawings in which similar numbers refer to like parts throughout the various views. Turning now to the drawings, Figures 1 and 2 are schematic side and top views, respectively, of a strip cutting and forming machine 10 according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. A generally flat network 12 of insulation is run from the roll 14 which rotates about an axis 16. The network 12 is run through a machining contact line 18 defined between a top rotating assembly (for example, the roller upper machining 20) and a lower rotating assembly (eg, lower machining roller 22). The machining rolls 20, 22 simultaneously cut the web 12 into strips 24a-d, delineate the strips 24a-d, and curve the edges of the strips 24a-so that they are generally configured in a U-shape, as discussed with more detail below. After leaving the machining contact line 18, each strip 24a-d is run through a running contact line defined between an upper running roller 29 and a lower running roller 30. According to a first exemplary embodiment , each of the running rollers 29, 30 has a somewhat soft, flexible cylindrical surface, formed of a material such as, but not limited to, neoprene; the somewhat flexible smooth surfaces of the running rollers 29, 30 function to hold the strips 24a-d but do not substantially flatten the tweezers 24a-d. According to a second exemplary embodiment, each of the running rollers 29, 30 has a more rigid cylindrical surface formed of a material such as, but not limited to, steel or chromium; the rigid surfaces of the running rollers 29, 30 function to hold and flatten the strips 24a-d. After leaving the running contact line 25, the strips 24a-d are rolled into strip rolls 26a-da, respectively. Conventional guide plates 27 guide the strips 24a-d to assist in the formation of the strip rolls 26a-d. The 26th strip rolls24c enclose a drive shaft 40 and the strip rolls 26b, 26d enclose a drive shaft 41. From the perspective of FIG. 1, the strip rolls 26a-d rotate in the clockwise direction. This rotation of the strip rolls 26a-d runs the strips 24a-da from the running contact line 25. The upper machining roller 20 and the lower machining roller 22 include and are driven by axes 28, 34, respectively. The upper running roller 29 and the lower running roller 30 include and are driven by the axes 32, 36, respectively. From the perspective of FIG. 1, the upper machining roll 20 and the upper running roller 29 rotate counterclockwise. From the perspective of FIG. 1, the lower machining roll 22 and the lower run roll 36 rotate in the clockwise direction. The rotation of the rollers 20, 22, 29, 30 unrolls the net 12 of the roll 14 and draws the net 12 through the points 18, 25. The axes 28, 32, 34, 36, 40, 41 are driven by the output shaft of an engine 38, in a conventional manner. An endless drive element, such as a drive belt 35, which is partially exploded in FIG. 1, extends between the output shaft of the motor 38 and a pulley (not shown) carried by the shaft 36 for driving the lower running roller 30. A gear (not shown) carried by the shaft 36 is engaged with a gear (not shown) carried by the shaft 32 to drive the upper running roller 29. A gear (not shown) carried by the shaft 34 is engaged with an idle gear 37 and gear (not shown) carried by shaft 36 for driving the lower machining roller 22. A gear (not shown) carried by shaft 28 engages with the gear (not shown) ) carried by the shaft 34 to drive the upper machining roller 20. An endless drive element, such as a drive chain 39, which is partially exploded in Figure 1, extends between an additional roller (not shown). ) ported by e l axis 40 to drive the strip rolls 26a, 26c. An endless drive element, such as a drive chain 42, which is partially exploded in FIG. 1, extends between an additional roller (not shown) carried by the shaft 40 and an additional roller (not shown) carried by the shaft 41 to drive the strip rolls 26b, 26d. The strip cutting and forming machine 10 includes a conventional mechanism (not shown) for separating the machining rollers 20, 22 and running rollers 29, 30 in order to extend the machining contact line 18 and the contact line of machining 25, respectively. This facilitates the initial insertion of the network 12 into the machining contact line 18 and the running contact line 25. The same mechanism also forces the machining rollers 20, 22 together in a gear configuration that is operative for forming strips 24a-da from network 12. Figure 3 is a perspective view, partially exploded, of the upper and lower machining rolls, 20, 22 with a single strip 24a extending from the line of machining contact 18 for illustrative purposes. Figure 4 is an elevational view, partially broken away, of portions of the upper and lower machining rollers, 20, 22. The upper machining roller 20 includes annular knives 46a-e, annular nozzles 48a-b, and annular mandrels 50a -b, all of which define central cores extending axially through which the shaft 28 is snapped. The knives 46a-e, the nozzles 48a-b, and the mandrels 50a-b are fixed to the shaft 28 and they rotate coaxially therewith around the shaft 52. Similarly, the lower machining roll 22 includes ring knives 46f-j, ring nozzles 48c-d, and annular mandrels 50c-d, all of which define axially extending cores through which the shaft 34 is snapped. The knives 46f-j, the nozzles 48c-d, and the mandrels 50c-d are fixed to the shaft 34 and rotate coaxially therewith around the shaft 54. Each of the knives 46a-j is constructed identically. Each knife 46 is a right circular cylinder having a diameter of approximately 3,250 inches, an axial length of approximately 0.025 inches and a centered core extending axially to receive one of the axes 28, 34, as discussed above. Each of the mandrels 50a-d is constructed identically. Each mandrel 50 is a right circular cylinder having a diameter of about 3200 inches, an axial length of about 0.211 inches, and a centered core extending axially to receive one of the axes 28, 34, as discussed above. Each of the nozzles 48a-d is constructed identically. Figure 5 is an elevational, partially exploded, isolated view of a nozzle 48. Each nozzle 48 includes an annular central surface 56 that is in the form of a right circular cylinder that is coaxial with the axis of the nozzle 48. Central surface 56 has a diameter of approximately 3,200 inches and an axial length of approximately 0.1140 inches. Each nozzle 48 includes a first annular projection 58 on one side of the central surface 56 and a second annular projection 60 on the opposite side of the central surface 56. A channel surface 66 extends between the first projection 58 and a lateral surface 62 Likewise, the channel surface 68 extends between the second projection 60 and a side surface 64. Each annular projection 58, 60 is generally identical, each side surface 62, 62 is generally identical, and each channel surface 66, 68 is generally identical; therefore, the discussion of one should be understood as reference to the other. The first annular projection 58 is coaxial with the axis of the nozzle 48 and includes an annular cylindrical surface 65 at its apex. The cylindrical surface 65 is coaxial with the axis of the nozzle 48 and has a diameter of approximately 3.2 inches and an axial length of approximately 0.01 inches. The first annular projection 58 further includes a first sloping surface 67 which is coaxial with the axis of the nozzle 48. The first sloping surface 67 extends from an edge of the annular cylindrical surface 65 to the edge of the central surface 56 a an angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to the cylindrical surface 65. The first annular projection 58 further includes a second sloping surface 69 which is coaxial with the axis of the nozzle 48. The second sloping surface 69 extends from an edge of the cylindrical surface 65 to the upper edge of the channel surface 66 at an angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to the cylindrical surface 65. Each of the sloping surfaces 67, 69 extends approximately 0.005 inches in the axial direction. The side surface 62 is flat and perpendicular to the axis of the nozzle 48. The channel surface 66 slopes upwardly from the side surface 62 at an angle of approximately 30 degrees relative to the side surface 62 (i.e. in relation to the vertical reference). The axial distance between the side surfaces 62, 64 is approximately 0.2613 inches. Each nozzle 48 defines an axially extending core, centered to receive one of the axes 28, 34 (Figures 1 and 3), as discussed above. According to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the machining rollers 20, 22 are engaged in the manner illustrated in Figure 4 when the strip cutting and forming machine 10 (Figures 1 and 2) is forming the network 12. (figures 1 and 2) in strips 24a-d (figures 1-3). In the upper machining roller 20, the knife 46a abuts the nozzle 48a, which abuts the knife 46b, which abuts the mandrel 50a, which abuts the knife 46c, which abuts the nozzle 48b, which abuts the knife 46 d, which abuts the mandrel 50b, which abuts the knife 46e. Put differently, the knives 46a, 46b sandwich the nozzle 48a; the knives 46b, 46c sandwich the mandrel 50a; the knives 46c, 46d sandwich the nozzle 48b; and the knives 46d, 46e sandwich the mandrel 50b. In the lower machining roller 22, the knife 46f abuts the mandrel 50c, which abuts the knife 46g, which abuts the nozzle 48c, which abuts the knife 46h, which abuts the mandrel 50d, which abuts the knife 46i, which abuts the nozzle 48d, which abuts the knife 46j. Put differently, the knives 46f, 46g sandwich the mandrel 50c; the knives 46g, 46h sandwich the nozzle 48c; the knives 46h, 46i sandwich the mandrel 50d; and the knives 46i, 46j sandwich the nozzle 48d. With respect to the machining rolls 20, 22 as a whole, the peripheries of the knives 46a, 46f are overlapped so that the sides of those knives 46a, 46f are in contact. The peripheries of the knives 46b, 46g are overlapped so that the sides of those knives 46b, 46g are in contact. The peripheries of the knives 46c, 46h are overlapped so that the sides of those knives 46c, 46h are in contact. The peripheries of the knives 46d, 46i are overlapped so that the sides of those knives 46d, 46i are in contact. And, the peripheries of the knives 46e, 46j overlap so that the sides of those knives 46e, 46j are in contact. The nozzle 48a is located above and facing the mandrel 50c. The nozzle 48b is located above and facing the mandrel 50d. The nozzle 48c lies below and faces the mandrel 50a. Y, the nozzle 48d is below and faces the mandrel 50b. The relationship between the knives 46 associated with each pair of facing nozzle 48 and mandrel 50 is the same, so that the discussion of the interaction between the knives 46a, 46b, 46f, 46g associated with the nozzle 48a and the mandrel 50c it must be understood as representative. The knife 46a has an inner side that contacts the nozzle 48a and an outer side that is opposite the nozzle 48a. Similarly, the knife 46b has an inner side that contacts the nozzle 48a and an outer side that is opposite the nozzle 48a. The knife 46f has an inner side that contacts the mandrel 50c and an outer side that is opposite the mandrel 50c. Similarly, the knife 46g has an inner side that contacts the mandrel 50c and an opposite external side that is opposite the mandrel 50c. The knives 46a, 46f overlap in such a way that the inner side of the knife 46a contacts the outer side of the knife 46f. Similarly, the knives 46b, 46g overlap in such a way that the inner side of the knife 46b contacts the outer side of the knife 46g. As described and illustrated above in Figure 4, the engagement of the machining rolls 20, 22 segments the machining contact line 18 into generally identical sections of the machining contact line 18a-d, within which they are formed the strips 24a-d, respectively. Due to the similarity between the sections of the machining contact line 18a-d, the following description of the section of the machining contact line 18a should be understood as representative of the other sections of the machining contact line 18b-d. . In the section of the machining contact line 18a, the distance between the central surface 56 (FIG. 5) of the nozzle 48a and the peripheral surface of the mandrel 50c is approximately 0.015 inches, which corresponds approximately to the thickness of the network 12 (Figure 1) . The section of the machining contact line 18a includes a channel 70 defined between the knife 46a and the channel surface 66 (FIG. 5) of the nozzle 48a. The section of the machining contact line 18a also includes a channel 72 defined between the knife 46b and the channel surface 68 of the nozzle 48a. As the network 12 (figures 1 and 2) passes through the section of the machining contact line 18a, the interaction between the knives 46a, 46f cuts one side of the strip 26a (figures 1-3), and the interaction between the knives 46b, 46g cuts the other side of the strip 26a. Simultaneously with the cut, the projections 58, 60 (FIG. 5) of the nozzle 48a delineate the strip 26a, and the periphery of the knives 46f, 46g and the mandrel 50c force the strip 26a against the surfaces of the nozzle 48a which are exposed within the section of the machining contact line 18a. Accordingly, the strip 26a takes the form of the surfaces of the nozzle 48a that are exposed within the section of the machining contact line 18a. Although the cutting and forming machine 10 (Figures 1 and 2) is characterized herein to include only four sections of the machining contact line 18a-d and creating only four strips 24a-d (Figure 1), it is preferable that the machine 10 includes additional sections of the machining contact line and accommodates additional strips, in a manner that would be understood by those skilled in the art upon understanding this exposure. Referring to Fig. 4, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the surface of each of the mandrels 50a-d is modified to include a pair of annular grooves that meet to receive the pair of projections 60 in the nozzles. 48a-d, respectively. As a representative example, a pair of annular grooves 44, 45 are illustrated in dashed lines on the mandrel 50d in FIG. 4. The projections 60 protrude in the slots 44., 45 helps in the formation of strips 26, especially when the strips 24a-d are of a relatively hard material to form. Each of the strips 24a-d (Figure 2) is generally identical. Figure 6 is an isolated end profile view, and Figure 7 is a top view, partially exploded, isolated, of a strip 24 after leaving the machining contact line. (figure 1) and before entering the running contact line 25 (figure 1). The strip 24 includes a longitudinally extending middle segment 74 and longitudinally extending side segments 76, 78, which extend upwardly from the middle segment 74 in a divergent manner. The angles "Al" and "A2" are defined between the middle segment 74 and the side segments 76, 78, respectively. The angles "Al" and "A2" are preferably oblique for a strip 24 that has come out of the machining nip 18 (FIG. 1) and has not yet entered the running nip 18. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the internal surfaces of the segments 74, 76, 78 cooperate to define a longitudinally extending channel 80. The outer surfaces of the segments 74, 76, 78 are opposite the channel 80. The strip 24 defines slots that they extend longitudinally 79, 81 formed by the grooving action of the projections 58, 60 (Figure 5), respectively. The first slot 79 is colinear with the union of the segments 74, 76 and the second slot 81 is collinear with the union of the segments 74, 78. Each slot 79, 81 can be characterized by including a plurality of indentations that are so numerous and close that a generally continuous and uniform groove is defined. Strip 24 is continuous, generally uniform along its length, and unitary (that is, it is absent from separate but attachable parts). In accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, after leaving the running contact line 18 (Figure 1), the angles "Al" and "A2" vary acceptably from between about 95 degrees to 180 degrees. For a given strip 24, each of the angles "Al" and "A2" is preferably approximately identical. According to the first exemplary embodiment, where each of the running rollers 29, 30 (FIG. 1) preferably has a somewhat soft, flexible surface, the running contact line 25 (FIG. 1) generally does not change the shape of the strips 24 that pass through it. That is, the "Al" and "A2" angles of a strip 24 passing through the running contact line 25 remain substantially unchanged, according to the first exemplary embodiment. According to the second exemplary embodiment, where each of the running rollers 29, 30 (FIG. 1) preferably has a surface that is more rigid than in the first embodiment, the running contact line 25 (FIG. 1) changes the shape of the strips 24 that pass through it. That is, according to the second exemplary embodiment, the strips 24 are at least partially flattened (ie, the angles "Al" and "A2" are increased) as they pass through the running contact line 25. For example, according to the second exemplary embodiment, the "Al" and "A2" angles can be 180 degrees. When the hardness of the surfaces of the running rollers 29, 30 increases, the strips 24 become flatter and when the hardness of the surfaces of the running rollers 29, 30 decreases, the flattening of the strips 24 decreases. According to the first exemplary embodiment, the strip rolls 26a-d (Figure 2) are generally identical. Figure 8 is a perspective view of a strip 24 formed on a roll 26, according to the first exemplary embodiment, the strip 24 illustrated in Figure 8 is continuous (i.e., without break) between its ends 83, 85. The strip 24 includes lengths 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96 that are generally concentric and extend about a central point (i.e., a point on the axis of the tube 82) by approximately 360 degrees. The outer surface of the middle segment 74 of the first length 84 abuts the outer surface of the middle segment 74 of the second length 86 which abuts the inner surface of the middle segment 74 of the first length 84 by approximately 360 degrees. A substantial portion of the outer surfaces of the lateral segments 76, 78 of the second length 86 abuts the inner surfaces of the side segments 76, 78, respectively, of the first length 84 by approximately 360 degrees. Accordingly, a substantial portion of the second length 76 lies within the channel 80 of the first length 84 by approximately 360 degrees. Each successive length of the strip 24 similarly fits in the channel 80 of the anterior length of the strip 24. According to the second and implicit mode, the strip rolls 26a-d (Figure 2) are also generally identical. According to the second exemplary embodiment, a roll 26 would be identical to that illustrated in FIG. 8, except that the angles "Al" and "A2" (FIG. 6) would be larger than what is illustrated in FIG. example, according to an acceptable example of the second exemplary embodiment, the angles "Al" and "A2" can be 180 degrees, such that a roll includes a continuous flat strip 24 generally wrapped concentrically about a point central (that is, a point on the axis of a tube 82). In summary, in accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, for a roll 26, each of the angles "Al" and "A2" (Figure 6) is preferably approximately identical and varies acceptably from about 95 degrees to 180 degrees . According to the exemplary embodiments, the network 12 (and consequently the strips 24a-d) is preferably an insulation such as: high temperature aramid paper, such as that sold under the trade name "NOMEX"; hard vulcanized fiber; "MYLAR"; paper made of polyester fiber saturated with a heat-resistant epoxy resin, such as that sold under the trade name "DUROID"; or laminated "DACRON" and polyester film. These isolates are preferably available from Fabrico, a division of Electrical Insulation Suppliers, Inc., which has factories for example in Atlanta, GA; Mequon, Wl; and Rancho Cucamonga, CA. According to an acceptable example, after passing through the running contact line 25 (Fig. 1), a strip 24 of vulcanized fiber has angles "Al" and "A2" (Fig. 6) which are approximately identical and from about 168 degrees to 165 degrees. According to another acceptable example, after passing through the running contact line 25 (Figure 1), a strip 24 in the form of a sandwich "MYLAR" layer (eg, laminated) between a top layer of "DACRON" and a lower layer of "DACRON" have angles "Al" and "A2" (Figure 6) that are approximately identical and from approximately 175 degrees to 174 degrees. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, according to the exemplary embodiments, when all the variables remain constant, the angles "Al" and "A2" may vary as the material of the network 12 changes (and consequently the strips 24a). -d). For example, when the strips 24a-d are of a material that is relatively harder to form (eg, a laminate of "DACRON" / "MYLAR" / "DACRON") the angles "Al" and "A2" will be greater that when the strips 24a-d are of a relatively easier to form material (for example, a paper that is not laminated). Other examples of means for varying the "Al" and "A2" angles are outlined below. Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, and 6, according to the exemplary embodiments, when all the variables are kept constant, the angles "Al" and "A2" may also vary as the angle of the channel surface 66 is tilted. upwardly from the side surface 62. As illustrated in Figure 5, this angle (i.e., the channel surface angle 66) is about 30 degrees relative to the side surface 62 (i.e. relation to the vertical reference). Increasing the angle of the channel surface 66 tends to increase the angles "Al" and "A2", while the decrease of the channel surface 66 tends to decrease the angles "Al" and "A2". Referring to Figures 1, 4 and 6, according to the exemplary embodiments, when all other variables are kept constant, the angles "Al" and "A2" may also vary as the shape of the knives 46 varies. For example, the increase in the diameter of the knives 46 tends to decrease the angles "Al" and "A2", while the decrease in the diameter of the knives 46 tends to increase the angles "Al" and "A2". Similarly, the increase and decrease of the amplitude (ie, the axial length) of the knives 46 will decrease and increase, respectively, the angles "Al" and "A2". It should be understood that, throughout this disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, the details provided apply to both the first exemplary embodiment and the second exemplary embodiment. Also, the second exemplary embodiment is generally identical to the first exemplary embodiment, unless otherwise indicated. It should also be understood that the foregoing refers to particular embodiments of the present invention, and that numerous changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

Claims (53)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION Having described the present invention, it is considered as a novelty and therefore the property described in the following claims is claimed as property. A manufacturing article comprising: a longitudinally extending continuous piece of insulation having opposite longitudinally extending edges that are at least partially curved from each other such that said piece of insulation defines a longitudinally extending channel, wherein said piece of insulation is generally uniform along its length and is formed into a roll so that a first length of said piece of insulation and a second length of said piece of insulation extend each about a point common and at least a portion of said second length is placed within said channel of said first length. The article according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a portion of said second length is placed within said channel of said first length by more than three hundred degrees around said common point. 3. The article according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a tube, wherein said first length is wound around said tube. 4. The article according to claim 1, characterized in that said first length and said second length are generally concentric. The article according to claim 1, characterized in that a third length of said insulation piece extends around said common point and at least a portion of said third length is placed within said channel of said second length. The article according to claim 1, characterized in that in an end profile view of said insulation piece, said insulation piece defines a plurality of straight lines. 7. A piece of continuous insulation extending longitudinally, comprising: a longitudinal segment extending longitudinally; and a pair of longitudinally extending side segments, extending away from said middle segment in a diverging manner such that the insulation part defines a longitudinally extending channel, a first lateral segment of said pair of lateral segments connected a and extending from said middle segment to define a first longitudinally extending joint, a second lateral segment of said pair of lateral segments connected to and extending from said middle segment to define a second longitudinally extending joint , and the insulation piece defines a first plurality of indentations close to said first joint, and a second plurality of indentations close to said second joint. The insulation piece according to claim 7, characterized in that the insulation piece is unitary and said pair of side segments are bent relative to said middle segment to create said divergent shape, said first plurality of indentations and said second plurality being operative. of indentations to promote this divergent form. The insulation part according to claim 7, characterized in that the insulating part is generally uniform along its length and is formed in a roll so that a first length of the insulating piece and a second length of the Each piece of insulation extends around a common point and at least a portion of said second length is placed within said channel of said first length. The insulation part according to claim 9, characterized in that an obtuse angle is defined between each lateral segment and said middle segment, wherein said middle segment comprises an internal surface and an external surface, wherein each said segment comprises an internal surface and an outer surface, wherein said inner surfaces of said middle segment and said lateral segments abut at least partially and cooperate to define said channel, and wherein said internal surfaces of said first length face and are close to said external surfaces of said second length. The insulation part according to claim 7, characterized in that said first plurality of indentations are installed in a close manner in such a way that the insulation part defines a first longitudinally extending groove next to said first joint, and wherein said second part a plurality of indentations are installed in a close manner in such a way that the insulation part defines a second groove extending longitudinally close to said second connection. The insulation piece according to claim 11, characterized in that said first longitudinally extending groove is generally collinear with said first joint, and wherein said second longitudinally extending groove is generally collinear with said second joint. The insulation piece according to claim 12, characterized in that said insulation piece is generally uniform along its length and is formed in a roll so that a first length of the insulation piece and a second length of the Each piece of insulation extends around a common point and at least a portion of said second length is placed within said channel of said first length. The insulation part according to claim 7, characterized in that in an end profile view of the insulation part: at least a portion of said first lateral segment defines a first generally straight line, at least a portion of said second segment lateral defines a second generally straight line, and at least a portion of said middle segment defines a third generally straight line. The insulation piece according to claim 14, characterized in that a first obtuse angle is defined between said first line and said third line, and wherein a second obtuse angle is defined between said second line and said third line. 16. The insulation part according to claim 15, characterized in that in an end profile view of the insulation part: generally said first lateral segment generally defines a first straight line, generally said second lateral segment defines said second line generally straight, and generally said middle segment defines said third line generally straight. The insulation part according to claim 16, characterized in that the insulating part is generally uniform along its length and is formed in a roll so that a first length of the insulating piece and a second length of the Each piece of insulation extends around a common point and at least a portion of said second length is placed within said channel of said first length. 18. An apparatus for transforming an insulation network into strips, comprising: a pair of rotational assemblies defining a line of contact therebetween, each rotational assembly comprising said pair of rotational assemblies an alternating series of knives coaxially installed, nozzles and chucks; and a device for running the network through said contact line, said pair of rotation assemblies being operative, in response to the running of the network between them, to form the network in a plurality of strips characterized in that each strip of the plurality of strips extends longitudinally and comprise a longitudinal segment extending longitudinally; and a pair of longitudinally extending side segments, extending away from the medial segment in a divergent manner such that the strip defines a longitudinally extending channel. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that said pair of rotation assemblies is further operative, in response to the running of the network therebetween, to form a pair of slots in each strip of the plurality of strips that assist in the formation of said plurality of strips. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that it further comprises a device that operates to receive each strip of the plurality of strips coming from said line of contact and rolls each strip of the plurality of strips in a separate roll, in such a way that , after being formed in the roll, each strip of the plurality of strips is generally uniform along its length and comprises a first length and a second length extending around a common point such that at least a portion of the second length is placed inside the channel of the first length. 21. An apparatus for transforming a network into configured strips, comprising: a rotation assembly comprising a plurality of knives, wherein each knife of said knife plurality is annular, defines an axis of rotation, and is coaxial with the others knives of said plurality of knives, and an annular nozzle interposed between and proximate a first knife and a second knife of said plurality of knives, in said nozzle defines a rowing axis and is coaxial with said plurality of knives, and a mandrel annular interposed between and next to said second knife and a third knife of said plurality of knives, wherein said mandrel defines an axis of rotation and is coaxial with said plurality of knives. The apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that said rotation assembly further comprises an axis which is connected to and is coaxial with said plurality of knives, said nozzle and said mandrel. The apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that said rotation assembly is a first rotation assembly and the apparatus further comprises a second rotation assembly which is generally identical to said first rotation assembly, said first rotation assembly and said second rotation assembly to define a line of contact between them. The apparatus according to claim 23, characterized in that it further comprises a device for running the network through said contact line, said first rotation assembly and said second rotation assembly being operative, in response to the running of the network between the same, to form the network in a plurality of strips characterized in that each strip of the plurality of strips extends longitudinally, and comprises a longitudinal segment extending longitudinally; and a pair of longitudinally extending side segments, extending away from the medial segment in a divergent manner such that the strip defines a longitudinally extending channel. The apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that said nozzle comprises a central surface abutting said axis of said nozzle, a first annular projection enclosing said axis of said nozzle and extending radially away from said central surface, and a second annular projection enclosing said axis of said nozzle and extending radially away from said central surface, wherein said central surface is interposed between said first projection and said second projection. 26. The apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that said nozzle and said first knife cooperate to define a first annular channel interposed between said first projection and said first knife, and wherein said nozzle and said second knife cooperate to define a second annular channel. interposed between said second projection and said second knife. The apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that said rotation assembly is a first rotation assembly and the apparatus further comprises a second rotation assembly, said first rotation assembly and said second rotation assembly operable to define a contact line between them characterized by a first annular knife of said second rotation assembly extending towards said first channel of said first rotation assembly, and a second annular knife of said second rotation assembly extending toward said second rotation channel. said first rotation assembly. The apparatus according to claim 27, characterized in that said first knife of said first rotation assembly is in shear contact with said first knife of said second rotation assembly, and wherein said second knife of said first rotation assembly is in sharp contact with said second knife of said second rotation assembly. The apparatus according to claim 27, characterized in that an annular mandrel of said second rotation assembly is interposed between said first knife and said second knife of said second rotation assembly, and a peripheral surface of said mandrel of said second rotation assembly. faces said central surface of said nozzle of said first rotation assembly. 30. An apparatus for transforming a network into a configured strip, comprising: an annular nozzle having a first axis of rotation; an annular mandrel having a second axis of rotation and facing said nozzle to define a line of contact between them; and a plurality of annular knives, comprising a first knife having said first axis of rotation and comprising an internal side that is in contact with said nozzle and an external side that is opposite said nozzle, a second knife having said first axis of rotation and comprising an internal side that is in contact with said nozzle and an external side that is opposite said nozzle, a third knife having said second axis of rotation and comprising an internal side that is in contact with said mandrel and an outer side which is opposite said mandrel, and a fourth knife having said second axis of rotation and comprising an inner side which is in contact with said mandrel and an outer side which is opposite said mandrel, wherein said first knife and said third knife overlap in such a way that said internal side of said first knife contacts said external side of said third knife, and wherein said second knife and said fourth knife overlap such that said inner side of said second knife contacts said outer side of said fourth knife. 31. A nozzle, comprising: a central surface abutting the axis of the nozzle; a first annular projection enclosing the axis of the nozzle and extending radially away from said central surface; and a second annular projection enclosing the axis of the nozzle and extending radially away from said central surface; wherein said central surface is interposed between said first projection and said second projection. The nozzle according to claim 31, characterized in that it comprises: a first annular surface extending from said first projection generally towards the axis of said nozzle and away from said central surface, and a second annular surface extending from said second projection generally towards the axis of said nozzle and away from said central surface. The nozzle according to claim 32, characterized in that said central surface is cylindrical and coaxial with the axis of the nozzle. 34. A method for forming insulation, comprising the steps of: forming a longitudinally extending strip having opposite longitudinally extending edges, comprising the steps of bending the edges towards each other so that the strip defines a channel that it extends longitudinally, and delineate the strip in a way that promotes the arc stage, where the grooving stage and the arc stage are contemporary. 35. The method according to claim 34, characterized in that the configuration step further comprises the step of cutting into strips of a net to form the strip, wherein the steps of stripping, arcing and grooving are contemporaneous. 36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of: unrolling the net of a roll; run the network through a contact line, where the configuration stage is carried out in the contact line; and forming the strip on a roll such that a first length of the strip and a second length of the strip each extend around a common point and at least a portion of the second length is placed within a channel of the strip. first length 37. The method according to claim 36, characterized in that the contact line is defined between a pair of gear rotation assemblies, each rotation assembly comprising an alternate series of coaxially installed annular knives, annular nozzles and annular mandrels. 38. The method according to claim 34, characterized in that the arcing step comprises the steps of forming a first longitudinally extending joint between a longitudinally extending first side segment of the strip and a longitudinally extending middle segment of the strip., and forming a second longitudinally extending joint between the middle segment and a second longitudinally extending side segment of the strip and, wherein the grooving step comprises the steps of forming a first plurality of indentations extending longitudinally and proximally to the first joint and forming a second plurality of indentations extending longitudinally and close to the second joint. 39. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that the first plurality of indentations is installed closely so that the insulating part defines a first longitudinally extending groove that is generally collinear with the first joint, and wherein the The second plurality of indentations is installed in a close manner such that the insulation piece defines a second longitudinally extending groove that is generally collinear with the second joint. 40. The method according to claim 34, characterized in that the configuration step is a first configuration step, and wherein the method further comprises a second configuration step comprising a step of at least partial flattening of the strip. 41. A method for transforming an insulation network, comprising the steps of: forming a strip, comprising the steps of cutting the net into strips to form a longitudinally extending strip having edges extending longitudinally opposite, and bending the edges towards each other in such a way that the strip defines a longitudinally extending channel, where the strip cutting stage and the arching step are contemporaneous. 42. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that it further comprises the step of simultaneously believing a plurality of strips from the network when carrying out the step of forming each strip of the plurality of strips. 43. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that it also comprises the steps of: unwinding the net of a roll; run the network through the contact line, where the training stage takes place in the contact line; and forming the strip on a roll such that a first length of the strip and a second length of the strip each extend around a common point and at least a portion of the second length is placed within a channel of the strip. first length 44. The method according to claim 43, characterized in that the contact line is defined between a pair of gear rotation assemblies, each rotation assembly comprising an alternate series of coaxial annular knives, annular nozzles and annular mandrels installed. 45. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that the forming step further comprises the step of grooving the strip in such a way as to promote the arcing step. 46. The method according to claim 45, characterized in that the arcing step comprises the steps of forming a first longitudinally extending joint between a first longitudinally extending side segment of the strip and a longitudinally extending middle segment of the strip. , and forming a second longitudinally extending joint between the middle segment and a second longitudinal segment extending longitudinally of the strip, and wherein the grooving step comprises the steps of forming a first plurality of indentations extending longitudinally and closely to the first joint, and forming a second plurality of indentations extending longitudinally and close to the second joint. 47. The method according to claim 46, characterized in that the first plurality of indentations is installed in a close manner in such a way that the insulation piece defines a first longitudinally extending groove that is generally collinear with the first joint, and wherein the The first plurality of indentations is installed in a close manner in such a way that the insulation piece defines a first longitudinally extending groove that is generally collinear with the first joint. 48. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that it further comprises a step of at least partial leveling of the strip subsequent to the forming step. 49. A manufacturing article comprising: a longitudinally extending continuous piece of insulation having opposite longitudinally extending edges and a first plurality of indentations extending longitudinally and between said edges, wherein said piece of insulation is generally uniform along its length and is formed in a roll so that a first length of said insulation piece and a second length of said insulation piece each extend around a common point. 50. The article according to claim 49, characterized in that said first plurality of indentations are installed in a close manner such that said insulation piece defines a first longitudinally extending groove. 51. The article according to claim 49, characterized in that it further comprises a second plurality of indentations extending longitudinally between said edges and moving from said first plurality of indentations. 52. The article according to claim 51, characterized in that said first plurality of indentations is installed in a close manner in such a way that said isolation piece defines a first longitudinally extending groove, and wherein said second plurality of indentations is installed in a manner close such that said insulation piece defines a second slot extending longitudinally and. 53. The article according to claim 49, characterized in that said first length and said second length are generally concentric. SUMMARY A slitting and slotting machine includes an upper machining roller and a lower machining roller that cooperate to define a machining contact line. Each machining roll includes an alternate series of annular knives that are installed coaxially, annular nozzles and annular mandrels. An insulation network is run through the machining contact line to simultaneously (i) cut the network into strips, (ii) delineate the strips in a way that promotes the formation of the strips, and (iii) partially form the strips. strips in modified U shapes. Each strip includes a longitudinally extending middle segment and a pair of longitudinally extending side segments, which extend away from the middle segment in a divergent manner to define a longitudinally extending channel. The longitudinally extending grooves are formed by grooving at the joints of the middle segment and the lateral segments. The delineation / grooves promote the divergent shape of the strip. In an end profile view of the strip, the middle segment and each of the side segments are generally straight and an obtuse angle is defined between each side segment and the middle segment. Each strip is formed in a roll, so that a first length of the strip and a second length of the strip each extend around a common point. At least a portion of the second length is placed within the channel of the first length.