US3485610A

US3485610A - Rotary apparatus for advancing strand-like products

Info

Publication number: US3485610A
Application number: US606273A
Authority: US
Inventors: George E Smock
Original assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Corp
Current assignee: Owens Corning
Priority date: 1966-12-30
Filing date: 1966-12-30
Publication date: 1969-12-23
Anticipated expiration: 1986-12-23

Description

Dec. 23, 1969 G. E. SMOCK 3,485,6 0

ROTARY APPARATUS FOR ADYANCING STRAND-LIKE PRODUCTS Filed Dec. 30, 1966 4 SheetsSheet 1 l N VE N TOR. GEORGf 5M06K ATTORNEYS Dec. 23, 1969 e. E. sMocK 3,485,610

ROTARY APPARATUS FOR ADVANCING STRAND-LIKE PRODUCTS Filed Dec. 30, 1966 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 I N VENTOR. GEO/P65 f. 5M06K ATTORNEYS Dec. 23, 1969 a. E. SMOCK 3,485,610

ROTARY APPARATUS FOR ADVANCING STRAND-LIKE PRODUCTS Filed Dec. 30, 1966 4 Sheets-Sheet 3 INVENTOR. 650965 E. SMOC/K ATTORNEYS 6- E. SMOCK Dec. 23, 1969 ROTARY APPARATUS FOR ADVANCING STRAND-LIKE PRODUCTS 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed Dec. 30, 1966 INVENTOR. 6mm; 15 5/1/00? BY ATTO 3 QMM RNEYS nited States Patent 3,485,610 ROTARY APPARATUS FOR ADVANCING STRAND-LIKE PRODUCTS George E. Smock, Newark, Ohio, assignor to Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corporation, a corporation of Delaware Filed Dec. 30, 1966, Ser. No. 606,273 Int. Cl. C(l3b 37/02; C03e 25/02 U.S. Cl. 65-9 11 Claims ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Heretofore, rotary pulling wheels having spoke or spider wheels of various types therein have gained considerable success, particularly in the processing of continuous multifilament glass strands; however, the ability to deliver or advance individually a plurality of strands continuously with one pulling wheel to several fixed zones or locations with control and uniformity has been a continuing problem. A number of techniques have been employed to vary strand distribution advanced by a rotary pulling wheel. The spoke or spider wheel within the rotary pulling wheel has been oscillated to change the positions where the strands are poked off. Then, too, after the strands have been poked off the wheel, opposing streams of air have been directed toward the paths of the strands in a coordinated pulsing manner to oscillate the strands from their path. Moreover, the strands have been impinged against a distribution form to divert their paths to a desired distribution pattern. Further, the spoke ends have been cut diagonally to the axis of the rotary pulling wheel to poke the strands off the wheel at different locations. The shorter portion of the diagonally cut spokes move into engagement with the strand located on that side of the spoke at a different perimeter position on the rotary pulling wheel than the strand engaged by the longer side of the spoke.

Each of the mentioned strand distribution techniques presents problems and limitations. Oscillating the spider wheel within the rotary pulling wheel does very distribution of the advancing strands; however, the strands are handled as a group and their paths are constantly changing between limits according to the oscillations of the spider Wheel. The same is true of the technique of directing opposing coordinated pulsing air streams toward the paths of the strands after the strands have left the pulling wheel. The paths of a group of strands are fluctuated together between limits. Further, the air streams, by their physical nature, are different to control and control uniformly. While diagonally cut spokes provide controlled strand distribution of a couple of strands along determined paths, the strand distribution is fixed by the shape of the spoke ends. Additionally, the strand distribution form, as the diagonally cut spokes, deliver advancing strands to locations in a fixed manner, according to the shape of the form. Variations in strand distribution normally require use of a diiferently shaped form.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved rotary apparatus for advancing a plurality of strand-like products such as continuous multiice filament glass strands which individually dislodges the strands 1 at various selected positions about its periphery.

Another object is to provide rotary apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands which controls the path of each strand advanced for simultaneous delivery of each strand or a selected number of strands to separate locations or zones.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide rotary apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands which can vary and control the path of each strand advanced while operating.

Still another object is to provide rotary apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands which is capable of substantially unlimited control in varying the path of individual strands advanced by the apparatus.

These and other objects are attained by the use of rotary apparatus including a hollow pulling wheel which has a rim or perimeter having a surface interrupted by a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart openings such as width extending slots and has a desired number of adjacent strand removing asemblies including finger wheels rotatably mounted within the pulling wheel. Each finger wheel includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart radially extending fingers which are aligned with the rim openings of the pulling wheel. In preferred form, the fingers extend individually into the rim openings and are captured therein for rotation of the finger wheels by the pulling wheel. The strand removing finger wheels are eccentrically mounted with respect to the axis of rotation of the pulling Wheel to provide finger wheels having an individual axis of rotation laterally offset from the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel to give radial movement of the fingers inwardly and outwardly with respect to the rim openings for protrusion of the fingers above the rim surface substantially along the direction of eccentricity or axis offset at predetermined circumferential rim locations of the pulling wheel. The location of the axis of rotation of each of the finger wheels is positionable with respect to the other finger wheels and the pulling wheel itself for determining the peripheral locations the fingers protrude through the openings above the rim surface.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the invention is hereinafter described in more detail with reference made to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIGURE 1 is a view in elevation of apparatus embodying the principles of the invention used for attenuating continuous filament glass and simultaneously advancing three continuous filament glass strands gathered into bundles from the attenuated filaments.

FIGURE 2 is a side elevation view of the apparatus shown of FIGURE 1.

FIGURE 3 is a view in vertical longitudinal section of the apparatus illustrated in FIGURES 1 and 2 and shows details of an apparatus embodying the principles of the invention.

FIGURE 4 is a view in perspective showing an embodiment of a strand removal assembly and control apparatus embodying the principles of the invention.

FIGURE 5 is a somewhat diagrammatic view of three fingers of the apparatus of FIGURES 1-4 which extend along the direction of eccentricity or offset of the strand removal assembly and serves to illustrate the functioning of the invention.

FIGURE 6 is a view in perspective of a mat faced wool pack process using the apparatus of the invention.

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Although the rotary apparatus of the invention may be used for advancing various types of strand-like products such as multifilament strand yarns and the like of natural or synthetic fibers as well as monofilaments, it is especially useful for attenuating continuous filament glass and simultaneously advancing the continuous filament glass in strand form and is discussed in relation to such use.

A somewhat simplified showing using apparatus for advancing strands according to the invention appears in FIGURES 1 and 2 in which a glass melting unit is shown having an associated feeder 12 disposed at the underside thereof with a plurality of orifices from which streams of molten glass flow for attenuation into continuous filaments 14. As illustrated, the continuous filaments 14 are gathered into three bundles or strands 16, each of the strands 16 comprising a plurality of continuous filaments 14. The filaments are gathered into strands by gathering shoes 17 after the filaments 14 have passed across a size applicator roll or belt 18 mounted within the size applicator housing 20 of a size applicator 22. The size applicator 22 is located below the feeder 12 and supplies the filaments 14 with a suflicient amount of sizing fluid, e.g. water, starch or gelatine, to bind and lubricate them against abrasive interaction.

The continuous multifilament strands 16 are pulled across the size applicator roll 18 to a multigrooved shoe 24 and thence about an idler wheel or cylinder 26, which is preferably multigrooved, by a hollow pulling wheel suitably rotated by a motor 28 through a belt 29 or the like. The multigrooved gathering shoe 24 functions to arrange the separately gathered and independent strands 16 for feeding to the pulling wheel 30. The idler wheel 26 maintains strand separation and assists establishing proper tension along the strands 16; further, the wheel 26 provides a surface about which the strands 16 may be passed for continued proper strand array for feeding the pulling wheel 30.

The strands 16 are advanced by the pulling wheel 30 simultaneously to different locations or zones by the single rotary apparatus embodying the invention.

Note that while the strands 16 are illustrated being attenuated from a single feeder 12, the strands 16 can be attenuated from separate feeders.

A preferred embodiment of the high-speed rotary apparatus of the invention is illustrated in FIGURES 1-3 comprises three constituent assemblages: The pulling wheel 30, a number of strand removal assemblies with their associated control apparatus and support assemblage 40.

As illustrated in FIGURE 3, the high-speed pulling wheel 30 includes a bowl-shaped part 32 and a plate or shroud 34. The bowl-shaped part 32 has an essentially fiat end or bottom and a circular rim 36 extending normally therefrom. The shroud 34 is a circular plate having a somewhat greater diameter than the outside diameter of the bowl-shaped part 32 and is adapted to fit across the open end thereof. The shroud 34 and the bowlshaped part 32 may be appropriately disengageably secured by means of bolts (not shown). While in practice the bowl-shaped part 32 and the shroud 34 are made of aluminum alloy, any suitable light and high-strength material may be employed.

The rim 36 forms a cylindrical interrupted surface. A plurality of generally rectangular shaped openings or slots 37 are circumferentially spaced apart around the rim 36 and extend substantially the width thereof. The rim 36, in a sense, forms extensions between the openings 37. The openings 37 may be any suitable shape.

Both the bottom or closed end of the bowl-shaped part 32 and the shroud 34 have circular openings. These openings are centrally located to extend through their centers and along the axis of rotation of the wheel 30. When the two parts are combined, the openings are aligned for passage of support and control apparatus of the invention.

The support apparatus 40 supports and rotates the pulling wheel 30 and includes a finger wheel support spindle or shaft 41, a hollow generally tubular sheave 44 and bearings 48 and 49.

As shown in FIGURE 3, the finger wheel support shaft 41 is securely fixed at one end by any suitable holding means 39 and comprises several shaft step-down portions including an intermediate step-down portion 42 of somewhat reduced diameter and end step-down portion 43 of further reduced diameter, which terminates the other end of the shaft 41. The finger wheel support shaft 41 is a non-rotating member.

The tubular sheave 44 is a member having an inside diameter somewhat greater than the diameter of the intermediate step-down portion 42 of the finger Wheel support shaft 41. Near one end of the sheave 44 is a laterally extending circular flange 46. The flange 46 is used to secure the rotary pulling wheel 30 to the sheave 44.

The sheave 44 is rotatably mounted on the finger wheel support shaft 41 by means of bearings 48 and 49 disposed on the intermediate step-down portion 42 of the shaft 41 at either end of the sheave 44. In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGURE 3 the ring bearing 48 is disposed around the intermediate step-down portion 42 at the left end of the sheave 44. The ring bearing 49 is located at the other end of the sheave 44 and is maintained in spaced apart relationship with the bearing 48 by a bearing spacer 45, which extends along the length of the step-down portion 42.

The flange 46 abuts against the outer surface of the closed end of the bowl-shaped portion 32 of the hollow pulling wheel 30. The passageway of the sheave 44 is aligned with the opening of the closed end of the bowl shaped part 32 to permit the finger wheel support shaft 41 (step-down portions 42 and 43) to pass through the opening and extend through the pulling wheel 30. The sheave 44 is secured to the pulling wheel 30 by bolts or other suitable means extending through the flange 46 and the bowl-shaped part 32.

Intermediate the ends of the sheave 44 are raised por tions 47 extending in circular fashion about the sheave providing a retaining means for the belt 29. When the belt 29 is rotated by the motor 28, the sheave 44 is rotated. In turn, the hollow pulling wheel 30 is rotated by the sheave 44 at the same r.p.m.

FIGURE 3 shows three strand removal assemblies 55 within the interior of the hollow pulling wheel 30 on the end step-down portion 43 of the finger wheel support shaft 41. Because the assemblies are combined in horizontally juxtaposed relationship, certain parts have dimension variations; however, each assembly functions in exactly the same manner.

Referring specifically to the left most strand removal assembly shown in FIGURE 3, the assembly comprises a hollow shaft or tubular extension member 62 having a circular and laterally extending flange 63 at one end, a ring bearing 69, a finger wheel 68 including radially extending fingers 56 and a pair of finger retaining rings 70.

The tubular extension member 62 includes at one end an eccentrically disposed circular flange 63 extending laterally therefrom and normal to the longitudinal axis of the member 62. While the FIGURE 3 illustrates the flange 63 integral with the tubular extension member 62, the flange 63 may be a separate part such as a disc suitably secured, e.g. press fitted, on one end. The center of the circle describing the flange 63 is offset, that is laterally disposed, from the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 62. Thus the flange 63 extends from the member 62 at varying distances about its circumference, the greater distance being in proximity to the direction of the offset. Thus, in a sense, the circular flange 63 is a cam surface for its associated finger wheel 68.

The tubular extension member 62 extends from outside the hollow pulling wheel 30 into it over the end step-down portion 43. Because the inside diameter of the member 62 is only slightly greater than the diameter of the end step-down portion 43, the member 62 fits over the portion 43 in snug fit relation allowing the extension member 62 to be rotationally moved. Further, the member 62 is arranged with the flange 63 pressed in abutting relationship against the shoulder between the intermediate stepdown portions 42 and end step-down portion 43.

A ring bearing 69 seats around the perimeter of the flange 63 and is substantially the same thickness thereof. Because the inside diameter of the ring bearing 69 is substantially the same as the outside diameter dimension of the flange 63, the ring bearing 69 fits in snug fit holding relation about the flange 63.

One of the finger wheels 68 is mounted for rotation about the flange 63 on the ring bearing 69. Because the inside diameter of the finger wheel is substantially the same as the outside diameter dimension of the ring bearing 69, the finger wheel 68 engages the ring bearing in snug fit holding relation.

The flange 63 provides an axis of rotation for its finger wheel 68 which is offset or laterally disposed from the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30. Because the axis of rotation of the pulling Wheel 30 and the longitudinal axis of the tubular extension member 62 are coextensive with the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 41, the ofiset distance of the flange 63 establishes the offset distance for the axis of rotation of the finger wheel 68 associated with it and must be a distance sufficient to project the fingers 56 above the surface of the rim 36 in selected zones as the pulling wheel 30 rotates.

The finger wheel 68 is fabricated with a plurality of uniform radially extending slots. The slots extend outwardly and provide the finger wheel 68 with an interrupted peripheral edge. Each slot has dimensions adapted to receive individual fingers 56. Further, each side of the finger wheel 68 has a circular groove extending near its periphery into which the finger retaining rings 70 may be secured.

As mentioned, the fact that strand removal assemblies 55 are combined on the finger wheel support shaft 41 within the wheel 30 in adjacent stacked together or juxtaposed relationship requires certain dimension modifications to each assembly 55. These dimension differences are only in the tubular extension members, e.g. 62, 64 and 66. As can be seen in FIGURE 3 the

tubular support members

62, 64 and 66 are in circumjacent relationship. The inside diameter of the middle tubular member 64 must be large enough to permit it to fit over the tubular extension member 62. Further, the tubular extension member 66 must fit over tubular member 64. In like fashion, apparatus like that illustrated in FIGURE 3 employing more than three strand removal assemblies 55 must provide tubular support members of progressively larger diameter dimensions for mounting one over the other. Further, the length of each tubular member varies to provide an exposed portion at its outer end over which control apparatus may be secured. In FIGURE 3 the tubular member 62 has the greatest length.

As illustrated in FIGURE 3 the circular flanges 65 and 67 of the

tubular extensions

64 and 66 respectively are the same diameter as flange 62. Moreover, their distance of offset is shown to be equal to the offset of the flange 62; however, both the diameter of the flange and their distance of offset may be individually varies in practice to obtain different strand advancing characteristics.

The ring bearings 69 and finger wheel 68 are common to all the strand removal assemblies 55.

Because each of the finger wheels 68 are rotationally mounted on respective offset flanges, each of the finger wheels 68 has an axis of rotation offset from the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30. In the preferred form illustrated the axis of rotation of the finger Wheels 68 6 extend parallel to the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30.

The finger 56 fit into the radially extending slots of each of the finger wheels 68. Each finger 56 is a thin generally rectangular member constructed of spring steel or the like for flexibility. Flexible finger members are preferred because the fingers 56 can readily adapt to stresses imparted to them as the finger wheel 68 is rotated with the pulling wheel 30.

One end of each finger is contoured; the end is notched on each side short of its termination. A rectangular notch is shown in FIGURE 3 and is preferred. When the fingers 56 are inserted into individual slots of the finger wheel 68 fully, the notches of the contoured end match exactly with the circular grooves fabricated on the surfaces of the finger wheels 68. When the finger retaining rings 70 are positioned in the grooves, the inserted fingers 56 are firmly locked in position on the finger wheels 68.

The preferred embodiment of FIGURE 3 shows all the fingers 56 of each of the finger wheels 68 captured at their outward ends individually within the rim slots 37 of the pulling wheel 30. Such an arrangement permits the pulling wheel 30 to rotate the finger wheels 68 together in unison with it. Because in practice it is preferred that the pulling wheel 30 drive the finger wheels 68, the fingers 56 must be sufficiently long to make it possible for them to always be entrapped within the rim openings or slots 37, but not extending above the surface of the rim 36 except in selected zones determined by the position of the axis of rotation of the finger wheels. While it is the usual practice to use fingers 56 of equal lengths, their lengths may differ.

While in the inventions preferred form the finger wheels 68 are driven in rotation by the pulling wheel 30 through the fingers 56, suitable drive means may be employed to rotate the finger wheels 68 synchronously with the pulling wheel 30. In such a case the fingers 56 need not be of a length sufficient to always be captured within the rim openings 37.

FIGURE 4 shows one of the assembled strand removal assemblies 55.

In practice each finger 56 of each finger wheel 68 is provided for each slot 37. It is the normal practice, then, to provide fingers for each pulling wheel slot 37. Because a greater number of fingers about the perimeter of each finger wheel 68 provides smoother operation of the pull ing wheel 30, usually a substantial number of fingers up to 50 or more are employed on each finger wheel 68.

While the rotary strand removal apparatus illustrated in FIGURES 1 through 3 is shown with three strand removal assemblies 55, a larger or smaller number of the assemblies may be employed. Three assemblies are shown by way of example only. In practice, a pulling Wheel 30 employing up to seven strand removal assemblies has been used to manufacture continuous filament glass fiber mats.

The circumferential disposition of flange offset about the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30 for the

flanges

63, and 67 is maintained and moved by control

apparatus including arms

74, 75, 76 and an eccentric clamp plate 78.

Referring to FIGURES 3 and 4, the arms are longitudinal members adapted at one end to fit over and grip the individual

tubular extension members

62, 64 and 66 at their exposed outward ends. The gripping end of each arm is a collar having dimensions suitable for fitting over the end of the particular tubular extension member on which the arm is employed. As shown in FIGURE 3, the

arms

74, and 76 are secured to

tubular extension members

62, 64 and 66 respectively. The collar of each arm has a setscrew 77 which is turned to move the collar into holding relationship with the associated tubular extension member.

The other end of each arm is fashioned with an opening into which a bolt 81 is secured.

The eccentric clamp plate 78 controls the rotational movement of the

arms

74, 75 and 76. As illustrated in FIGURES 1 through 3, the plate 78 is shaped somewhat like the quadrant of a circle and has two arcuate longitudinal openings 79 and 80 extending substantially the length of and parallel to its outward arc edge. Opening 79 is located closer to the arcuate edge than opening 80. The dimensions of each opening permits securing the bolts 81 inserted therethrough.

The eccentric plate clamp 78 is mounted at the end of the end step-down portion 43 of the support shaft 41 by a collar 83. The inward most portion of the clamp plate 78 is suitably fixed to the collar 83, e.g. by welding or the like. The clamp 78 is rotatable on the shaft 41 by moving the collar 83. The inside diameter of the collar has a diameter dimension suitable for smooth rotation of the collar on the end step-down portion 43. Further, the collar 83 has a setscrew 84 that screws against the surface of the stepdown portion 43 to tightly hold the collar (and plate 78) in desired rotational positions.

Each arm is connected to the eccentric plate clamp 78 by means of the individual securing bolts 81. The distance between the arms and the clamp is maintained by integral extensions 86 of varying length. It is noted that in lieu of extensions 86 the arms may employ individual spacer elements. The bolts 81 extend individually through one of the openings, 79 or 80, and into an extension 86. Tightening the .bolts 81 brings the extensions 86 into tight frictional engagement with the plate 78 and maintains the arms in desired position. Loosening the bolts 81 permits movement of the bolts (arms) within the length of the openings, e.g. 79, of the clamp 78.

In operation the motor 28 rotates the hollow tubular sheave 44 through the belt 29. Known apparatus may be employed to vary the r.p.m. of the motor 28 as desired. The pulling wheel 30 is rotated with the sheave 44 at the same r.p.m. Because the ends of the fingers 56 are captured within the openings or slots 37 of the pulling wheel 30, the finger wheels 68 are driven in rotation at the same r.p.m.

Because of the axis of rotation of each finger wheel 68 is laterally offset with respect to the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30, the fingers 56 of each finger wheel 68 is moved radially inwardly and outwardly with respect to the surface of the rim 36 through the rim openings or slots 37. As the fingers 56 move towards the offset, they move outwardly to protrude above the rims surface. As the fingers move away from the offset, they move inwardly to a position even with or below the surface of the rim 36. Maximum protrusion of the fingers 56 above the rims surface occurs as they pass across the direction of offset. Thus, the fingers 56 extend above the surface of the rim 36 in a zone located on the side of the wheel in which the respective axis of rotation of each individual finger wheel 68 is offset.

The strands 16 are poked-off or removed from the rotating pulling wheel 30 as the fingers 56 move outwardly to protrude above the rim 36 to engage the individual strand 16. The strands 16 are supplied to the pulling wheel 30 in proper array by the shoe 24 and idler wheel 26. While the fingers 56 of an individual finger wheel 68 normally engages only one strand 16, the invention may be employed to have these fingers engage more than one strand 16, e.g. two strands.

The apparatus of the invention can be maintained with all the finger wheel axes of rotation coextensive. In such a case the corresponding fingers 56 of each finger wheel 68 move together to project above the surface of rim 36. In like fashion, the fingers 56 move inwardly together below the surface of the rim 36. All the strands 16 are individually removed from the pulling wheel 30 at the same circumferential zone.

The individual axes of rotation for each finger wheel 68 can be positioned at different locations about the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30. In this instance the corresponding fingers 56 of each finger wheel 68 project above the surface of the rim 36 at different circumferential rim locations. The strands 16 are removed from the pulling wheel 30 in different rim locations or zones. FIG- URE 1 illustrates the strands 16 leaving the pulling wheel 30 at various perimeter locations.

Further, FIGURE 5 illustrates in somewhat diagrammatic form the apparatus of the invention arranged to have the fingers 56 project above the rim 36 at different locations. One finger 56 is shown for each finger wheel 68 as it moves across the offset of its axis of rotation (flange offset). Each finger 56 has moved outwardly substantially its maximum projection above the surface of the rim 36.

The axis of rotation of each finger wheel 68 can be easily moved about the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel 30. This movement is effected by rotating the

flanges

63, 65 and 67 through moving the

arms

74, 75 and 76 respectively, a movement easily accomplished even while the pulling wheel 30 is operating.

The

arms

74, 75 and 76 may be operably connected to a programmed oscillating means to effect predetermined variations in the strand removal locations or zones.

FIGURE 6 illustrates the invention in a process for making a composite fibrous mat including both continuous and discontinuous or staple fibers, especially glass fibers, suitable for constructing a duct having a tough inner surface.

Discontinuous or staple glass fibers 104 may be provided by any known method such as the use of spinners 100. The spinners have a peripheral wall provided with a plurality of orifices or apertures 101 through which molten glass is projected under the influence of centrifugal forces during high speed rotation of the spinners 100. The molten glass is supplied to the spinners 100 by any well known source through suitable supply means 102.

The extruded or projected glass from the spinners 100 is engaged by a gaseous blast from an appropriate source through nozzles 106 or the like. The gaseous blast attenuates the glass to fibers and directs the fibers 104 downwardly to a moving perforated belt or conveyor 110 passing below the spinners 100.

The fibers 104 descend on the moving conveyor 110 to form a mat or blanket. Moreover, a suction box 112 under the conveyor 110 supplies a reduced pressure zone acting on the fibrous mat through the perforations of the conveyor 110 to compact the fibers in a uniform manner.

The spinners 100 are in line over the conveyor 110. While two spinners are illustrated in FIGURE 6, the showing is by example only. Any required number of spinners may be used to obtain desired mat physical properties or thickness. Further, spinners providing glass fibers of varying diameter may be employed to produce a mat including a fibrous mass having layers of fine and heavier fibers.

In practice the fibers 104 are treated with a suitable coating material by one or more spray gun nozzles at each spinner position such as adjustable spray gun nozzles 108. The nozzles 108 may be aimed upon the mat as it is being formed. Various coatings have been found advantageous such as phenol formaldehyde type resins.

The conveyor 110 moves the mat to a zone providing continuous multifilament strands 16 advanced by the apparatus of the invention. The strands 16 provide a continuous strand surface on the mat.

The strands 16 are poked-off the rotating pulling wheel 30 at various points around its rim and are projected in individual directed non-oscillatory paths. The strands 16 are deposited on the moving mat in a somewhat overlapping manner to provide a smooth surface. Moreover, the strands 16 are projected with sufiicient energy to be securely deposited on the mat.

The spinners 100 and pulling wheel 30 are separated by a partition 115 to prevent fly between positions. An after treatment may be supplied to the mat through nozzles 116 for improved bonding and/or surface characteristics prior to entering a curing zone such as a heated oven (not shown). The treatment may be a resin spray such as the initial coating, neoprene or the like.

In view of the foregoing it will be recognized that while particular embodiments of the invention have been shown, many modifications may be made Within the concept of the invention and, therefore, it is not the intent to limit the invention to specific embodiments.

I claim:

1. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands comprising a hollow pulling wheel, said pulling wheel having a peripheral rim with circumferentially spaced-apart openings communicating with the interior of said wheel, said strands engaging said peripheral rim of said pulling wheel, means for rotating said pulling wheel, a plurality of adjacent finger wheels supported within said pulling wheel, an individual support surface upon which each of said finger wheels mounts to provide an axis of rotation for each finger wheel that is offset from the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, each of said support surfaces mounted for movement about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, each of said finger wheels having a plurality of fingers extending radially of its axis of rotation engaging said openings for rotating said finger wheels with said pulling wheel, said fingers of each of said finger wheels extending through said opepings above the surface of said rim on the side of said pulling wheel towards which the axis of rotation of their finger wheel is offset for removing said strands engaging said rim, means for individually moving said support surfaces to relocate the axis of rotation of each said finger wheels about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel for removing said strands at different locations on the surface of said rim.

2. Apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands recited in claim 1 where said finger wheels are juxtaposed within said pulling wheel and their axes of rotation extend parallel to the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel.

3. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands comprising a hollow pulling wheel having a peripheral surface with circumferentially spaced apart openings communicating with the interior of said wheel, means for rotating said wheel, a plurality of finger wheels juxtaposed within said pulling wheel, a separate mounting surface for each of said finger wheels providing an axis of rotation for each finger wheel that is offset from and extending parallel to the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, each of said mounting surfaces being movable about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, each of said finger wheels including a plurality of fingers radially extending from its axis of rotation, each of said fingers being always engaged at its outer end with a peripheral opening for rotation with said pulling wheel, said fingers extending through said openings in a zone on the side of said pulling wheel on which the axis of rotation of the finger wheel is offset, the offset of each of said finger wheels being sufficient to protrude at least some of its fingers above said peripheral surface for removing said strands engaging said peripheral surface, a plurality of tubular extensions extending into the interior of said pulling wheel mounted for movement about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, each of said mounting surfaces cooperating with one of said tubular extensions for individually moving the axis of rotation of each of said finger wheels about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel for controlling the zone in which said fingers protrude above said peripheral surface to separately disengage each of said strands at different desired peripheral zones for advancing said strands to different desired locations.

4. Apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands according to claim 3 where said fingers are of equal length.

5. Apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands according to claim 3 wherein the axes of rotation of said finger wheels are offset different distances.

6. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands comprising a stationary shaft, a tubular sheave rotatably mounted on said shaft intermediate its ends, said sheave having an axis of rotation coextensive with the longitudinal axis of said shaft, a hollow pulling wheel, said pulling wheel secured at one end of said tubular sheave for rotation therewith, said shaft extending through said pulling wheel with its longitudinal axis along the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, said pulling wheel having a peripheral rim with circumferentially spaced apart openings communicating with the interior thereof, means for rotating said sheave at high speeds, a plurality of juxtaposed finger wheels within said pulling wheel, each of said finger wheels including a plurality of radially extending fingers about its circumference, each of said fingers on each of said finger Wheels extending individually into each of said openings for rotation in unison with said pulling wheel, a plurality of circumjacent tubular extensions on said shaft extending into the interior of said-pulling wheel, one of said tubular extensions for each of said finger wheels, circular flange off-center with respect to the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel laterally extending on one end of each of said tubular extensions, each of said finger wheels rotatably mounted on one of said flanges, each of said flanges providing an axis of rotation for each of said finger wheels that is offset from the axis rotation of said pulling wheel and extending parallel thereto, said fingers of each of said finger wheels being moved through said openings to protrude above the surface of said rim in a zone on the side of said pulling wheel towards which the axis of rotation their finger wheel is offset, means connected to the other end of each of said tubular extensions for turning said extensions to individually move the position of the axis of rotation of each of said finger wheels about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, said plurality of strands engaging said rim during rotation of said pulling wheel being removed as said fingers are moved through said openings to protrude above the surface of said rim.

7. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands recited in claim 6 where said means connected to the other end of each of said tubular extensions comprises a plurality of juxtaposed radially extending arms, each of said arms moving its associated extension in rotation with it when turned, a plate supported on the end of said shaft, said plate extending laterally from said shaft and having arcuate slots therein, said arms operably engaging said slots for slidable movement therein, means for maintaining each of said arms at desired locations in said slots.

8. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous textile strand-like products comprising a hollow wheel for pulling said products, said wheel having a peripheral surface with circumferentially spaced apart openings communicating with the interior of said wheel, drive means for rotating said wheel, a plurality of adjacent finger Wheels mounted for rotation internally of said pulling wheel for removing said products engaging said peripheral surface, each of said wheels having a plurality of finger members radially extending from its axis of IO- tation, support means providing each of said finger wheels with an axis of rotation offset from the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel, said finger members of each said finger wheels being sufficiently long to extend into engaging relationship with at least a portion of the total number of spaced openings in said peripheral surface whereby said finger wheel rotates in unison with said wheel, the offset axis of each of said finger wheels being sufficient to project a number of its fingers above said peripheral surface to effect rotation removal of said products being pulled by said wheel from said peripheral surface, means to move said support means for relocating the axis of rotation of at least one of said finger wheels to project its fingers above said peripheral surface and disengage one of said products from said wheel at a zone on said peripheral surface diflerent from the product disengagement zone provided by the other finger wheels.

9. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous textile strand-like products as recited in claim 8 including means for independently moving the axis of rotation of each of said finger wheels about the axis of rotation of said Wheel.

10. Apparatus for longitudinally advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands comprising a hollow pulling wheel, said pulling Wheel having a peripheral rim with circumferentially spaced apart openings communicating with the interior of said Wheel, means for rotating said pulling wheel, a plurality of adjacent finger wheels supported Within said pulling wheel, a separate support member for each of said finger Wheels, each of said support members being in ofiset relation with the axis of rotation of the pulling wheel at different locations about said axis to provide spaced apart finger wheel axis of rotation selectively offset from said axis of rotation of said pulling Wheel, each of said finger wheels having a plurality of fingers extending radially of its axis of rotation engaging said openings for rotating said finger wheels with said pulling wheel, said fingers of each of said finger wheels extending through said openings above the surface of said rim on the side of said pulling wheel towards Which the axis of rotation of their respective finger wheel is offset for separately removing said strands engaging said rim at diiferent locations on the surface of said rim.

11. Apparatus for advancing a plurality of continuous multifilament strands recited in claim 10 where at least one of said support members is mounted for movement about the axis of rotation of said pulling wheel and further including means for moving such support member to relocate the axis of rotation of its respective finger wheel about the axis of rotation of said pulling Wheel.

References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 3,014,629 12/1961 Cunningham et al.

S. LEON BASHORE, Primary Examiner ROBERT L. LINDSAY, JR., Assistant Examiner US. Cl. X.R.