Joining device for joining textile yarns and method for producing individual yarns

Abstract

A device for joining textile yarns (F1, F2), the device being used to join the ends of two textile yarns (F1, F2) by decomposing and subsequently recombining the twisted parts of the fibers at the two ends to form a single yarn (F), the device comprising two counter-rotating parts (11), each of the parts being provided with at least one joining element (12) and being arranged opposite to each other, thereby defining a joining area (G), the joining area being defined by the area located between the respective joining elements (12) facing each other and substantially aligned along a working axis (X).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments described herein relate to a device for joining textile yarns. In particular, the device is used to stably join the ends of two textile yarns by completely or partially decomposing the twist of the end segments defined by the two textile yarns and recombining the yarns with the combined ends.

[0002] The invention also relates to a method for joining textile yarns. Background Art

[0003] The following joining devices are known: the joining device eliminates the twist existing in the end portions of two textile yarns, connects the end portions of the two textile yarns, and reconstitutes the twist, thereby forming a single continuous yarn with no interruptions, of the desired length, and without obvious dimensional changes where the joining portion exists.

[0004] In particular, joining devices are known that disassemble and reassemble the twist by means of two counter-rotating parts coupled together, into which the ends of the yarns to be joined are inserted.

[0005] For example, US Pat. No. 4,637,205 is known, which provides a joining device using two counter-rotating components facing each other, between which the ends of the two yarns to be joined are placed, axially and adjacently and also oppositely positioned. These components are configured to rotate in opposite directions at a desired distance from each other and relative to the placed textile yarns, and these components are configured to apply a desired pressure one towards the other to first eliminate the twist and then align the fibers of the two ends, thereby subsequently reversing the direction of rotation to reassemble into a single yarn by twisting together the combined and effectively parallelized fibers of the two textile yarns to be joined.

[0006] However, since the device is purely mechanical, for example driven by a cam mechanism or the like, the device has a large number of parts and is therefore complex and slow to actuate.

[0007] This means that a long time is required to join the textile yarn and therefore the joining device itself has a low productivity, resulting in considerable downtimes in the equipment for producing textile yarns to which the device may be associated.

[0008] Furthermore, considering the large number of components of the device, maintenance operations are arduous in terms of time and cost, also resulting in longer downtimes of the device and thus further reducing productivity.

[0009] In addition, US Pat. No. 4,637,205 describes a method for joining opposite ends of two textile yarns to form a single yarn by decomposing and subsequently recombining the twisted portions of the end fibers of the two textile yarns. Figures 1a to 1e It is shown schematically and by way of example and provides:

[0010] - The yarns F1, F2 to be joined are introduced into a known device 110 ( Figure 1a ),

[0011] - by means of the reverse rotation R of the components 111 of the known device 110, the yarns F1, F2 are brought closer between the components 111 ( Figure 1b ),

[0012] - removing the end portions of the yarns F1, F2 which do not contribute to the joining by means of the removal device 113 ( Figure 1c ),

[0013] - The ends of the yarns F1 and F2 to be joined are moved close together and overlapped by a mechanical approach device 112 ( Figure 1d ),

[0014] - another reverse rotation R is performed to twist the ends of the superposed yarns F1, F2 to be joined ( Figure 1e ).

[0015] However, as is achieved with the aid of known devices, this method requires long connection times and attendant high costs.

[0016] Furthermore, this method does not guarantee an optimal bonding of the yarns.

[0017] Other joining systems known in the art are described in DE-A-102006000824, which relates to a known device for joining yarns in a textile machine, and US-A-4386494, which relates to a method and an apparatus for joining fiber bundles, such as those produced in the textile industry.

[0018] Known coupling devices, which are mainly of the mechanical type, are therefore complex, have a large number of components and are difficult to mount and adapt to the different spools.

[0019] Therefore, there is a need for an improved device for joining textile yarns that overcomes at least one of the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0020] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a device for joining textile yarns which allows increasing the productivity by quickly joining two consecutive yarns and simultaneously producing a continuous, good quality yarn.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for joining textile yarns which is easy to maintain.

[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for joining textile yarns which is universal and can also be mounted on different spools.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to perfect a fast and efficient method for joining two yarns.

[0024] The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these purposes and advantages as well as other purposes and advantages. Summary of the invention

[0025] In accordance with the above objects, the present invention relates to a device for joining textile yarns, the device being used to join opposite ends of two textile yarns to make a single yarn by decomposing and then recombining the twisted portions of the fibers at the ends.

[0026] In the present invention, textile yarn is intended to mean yarn made from fibers of various animal, vegetable and / or synthetic origin.

[0027] In the case of synthetic fibers, it can be a yarn with grouped and twisted fibers. In the case of partial or full elastic fabrics, this yarn can provide an elastic core yarn.

[0028] The hitch comprises two counter-rotating components.

[0029] The components are each provided with at least one connecting element.

[0030] The components are arranged opposite one another so as to define a joining area between respective joining elements facing one another and aligned substantially along the working axis.

[0031] According to one aspect of the invention, the joining device comprises one or more motor components, which are configured at least to selectively move at least one of the components along a working axis so as to adjust the width and size of the joining area, and the motor components are configured at least to selectively rotate the components relative to each other around the working axis to obtain a decomposition and subsequent recombination of the twisted portions of the fibers of the yarn.

[0032] Advantageously, one or more motor members are electrically driven, thereby making it possible to automate the hitch device, simplify its driving, control and maintenance, and reduce the necessary bulk.

[0033] In particular, such one or more motor members are electric, preferably stepper type or brushless type motor members, or one motor member is of one type and one motor member is of another type. However, it is not excluded that such motor members are of pneumatic type.

[0034] Furthermore, the motor member allows reducing the number of mechanical components required to move the components towards each other and to rotate the components, making the hitch device as a whole more compact and lighter and reducing maintenance interventions and complexity of the hitch device.

[0035] According to the invention, the device also comprises a control unit having an internal memory provided with a list of functional parameters of the two components for linking the textile yarn and therefore for controlling the one or more motor members and everything associated with the one or more motor members.

[0036] According to one aspect of the invention, the control unit is configured to control and command one or more motor members based on functional parameters present in an internal memory.

[0037] According to a variant, the control unit has means for processing data relating to the linkage, said means being able to intervene on these data and on the motor member generating them.

[0038] At least one motor member may be equipped with a position sensor or encoder; the control unit will be configured to command the at least one motor member depending on the functional parameter and the value detected by the position sensor.

[0039] Advantageously, the control unit allows to fully automate the joining of two textile yarns, thereby reducing the joining time and optimizing the joined portion, while at the same time guaranteeing a high quality of the continuously joined yarn. This control unit, for example provided with an independent electronic card, can directly control each motor member. The present joining device also proves to be very versatile and can even be mounted on different types of spools.

[0040] According to a first variant, the control unit stores each result obtained in terms of diameter and length of the joint and periodically updates the functional parameters pre-recorded in an internal memory.

[0041] According to another variant, the control unit records each step of the activity of the coupling device.

[0042] In this way, on the one hand, it can be ensured that the device is always in an optimized operating state to prevent abnormalities in the operation of the device and the connection obtained, and on the other hand, each cycle can be analyzed and each aspect of each cycle can be evaluated.

[0043] For example, the control unit may perform device diagnostics after each connection and / or periodically to dynamically adjust itself and may even process data to prevent the above abnormal conditions from occurring.

[0044] In particular, at least one motor member can have a receive-only encoder, which, according to a variant, can however also be a dialog encoder communicating with the control unit, which ensures better control of the behavior of the respective motor member.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the device includes: a first motor component configured to selectively move at least one of the two components along a working axis; and a second motor component configured to rotate the two components about the working axis in opposite directions relative to each other.

[0046] According to a variant, the joining device comprises a third motor member configured to drive holding means suitable for keeping the textile yarn taut in the joining area.

[0047] In particular, the control unit can appropriately adjust the position of the holding device depending on the type of yarn and the required yarn tension in the joining area.

[0048] According to another variant, the joining device comprises a fourth motor member configured to drive removal means suitable for removing end portions of the yarn that are not necessary for joining, thereby preparing the two yarns for the joining operation.

[0049] The third motor component and / or the fourth motor component may be independent of the first and / or the second motor component, or may be derived from the first and / or the second motor component.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the coupling device is equipped with a plurality of sensor devices which cooperate with the above-mentioned motor member so as to correctly perform the corresponding functions.

[0051] The invention also relates to a method of joining the end portions of two textile yarns to produce a single yarn by disintegrating and subsequently recombining the twisted portions of fibers or filaments present in the opposite ends of the yarns.

[0052] The connection method provided by the present invention is known, such as but not limited to that described in patent document US Pat. No. 4,637,205, and in addition to the known functions, also includes those devices intended to achieve exactly the same functions.

[0053] The known method comprises:

[0054] - introducing two textile yarns to be joined between two components, each provided with at least one joining element and arranged opposite one another so as to define a joining area between the respective joining elements facing one another and aligned along the working axis;

[0055] - driving the two components closer together along the working axis until there is at least partial contact between the facing connecting elements;

[0056] - rotating the two components in opposite directions to bring the two yarns closer to each other and parallel to each other in the joining area;

[0057] - removing the end portions of the yarn that will not contribute to the joining, thereby obtaining the opposite ends of the two textile yarns to be joined;

[0058] - bringing the ends of two textile yarns to be joined together until said ends are substantially superimposed;

[0059] - The two components are counter-rotated in opposite directions to each other to twist the two ends of the two textile yarns together to form a single yarn.

[0060] According to one aspect of the invention, the method further comprises making available a list of functional parameters of components for joining the textile yarn in an internal memory of the control unit.

[0061] According to one aspect of the method according to the invention, a control unit commands and controls one or more motor components, depending on functional parameters, which are dedicated to performing one or more of the following steps: introducing the textile yarn into the connecting area; driving the two components close together; rotating the two components; removing the end portion of the textile yarn; driving the obtained ends of the textile yarn close together; and rotating the two components in reverse.

[0062] By one or more motor components we mean in particular one or more motor components among the first, second, third or fourth motor components described above.

[0063] However, it should be noted that at least one motor member may be provided for each of the above steps, or one motor member may be designated to perform one or more or all of the steps.

[0064] Advantageously, the use of a control unit and one or more motor members allows to obtain an efficient and fully automated joining method.

[0065] As a non-limiting example, by means of the invention, the joining of textile yarns can be optimized, accelerated and improved, reducing downtimes, on a textile yarn production line or in combination with a machine for processing the yarn.

[0066] According to one embodiment, there is also provided:

[0067] - Detecting and monitoring the movement of at least one component along a working axis;

[0068] - During rotation and counter-rotation, a rotation of at least one component about the working axis is detected.

[0069] In particular, the control unit instructs and controls the operation of one or more motor components based on functional parameters stored in an internal memory and based on parameters detected in the above-mentioned detection.

[0070] These detections allow optimizing the management of one or more motor members assigned to the above steps, facilitating and improving the bonding of the textile yarn.

[0071] Therefore, the control unit can control the correct execution of each of the above steps, as well as the results obtained in each step.

[0072] If the control unit detects an anomaly in the function of the device or in the resulting linked yarn, the control unit resets the device with new function parameters.

[0073] According to a variant, the control unit is able to dialogue, on each occasion or in succession, with a service processor assisting one or more linked devices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments given as non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0075] - Figures 1a to 1e is a schematic diagram of a connection sequence of two textile yarns according to some embodiments of the prior art;

[0076] - Figure 2 is a perspective view of a coupling device according to the present invention;

[0077] - Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A front view of a connecting device;

[0078] - Figures 4 to 8 yes Figure 3Cross-sectional view of the connection device under different conditions;

[0079] - Figures 4a to 8a and Figures 4b to 8b It is the component of the connecting device. Figures 4 to 8 Views under the corresponding conditions of use;

[0080] - Figures 4c to 8c Is the connection device in Figures 4 to 8 Magnified details of the corresponding conditions of use;

[0081] - Fig. 9 It is a cross-sectional view of a variation of the present connection device.

[0082] To facilitate understanding, the same reference numerals are used, where possible, to identify the same common elements in the drawings. It is understood that elements and features of one embodiment may be conveniently incorporated into other embodiments without further explanation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] We will now describe in detail possible embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of illustration of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. It should be understood that the present invention should include all possible modifications and variations. We must also clarify that the phrases and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0084] Reference Figures 2 to 3 , as a non-limiting example, a device 10 for joining textile yarns F1, F2 is shown, which joins the ends of two textile yarns F1, F2 to make a single yarn F by decomposing the twisted portions of the fibers at the opposite ends and then recombining these ends.

[0085] The device 10 comprises two counter-rotating parts 11a, 11b arranged opposite to each other.

[0086] Each component 11 a , 11 b comprises at least one connecting element 12 .

[0087] In particular, the two components 11a, 11b are arranged opposite to each other so that the two corresponding connecting elements 12 face each other, thereby defining a connecting region G between the two corresponding connecting elements.

[0088] During use, the two ends of the two yarns F1 , F2 to be joined are placed between the two parts 11a , 11b .

[0089] Each component 11 comprises a frame 17 having a housing seat 18 in which the coupling element 12 is arranged and is movable in the axial direction.

[0090] Such a connecting element 12 can essentially have a plate-like or disk-like shape.

[0091] Each of the coupling elements 12 may include at least one support plate 15 and an upper plate 16 disposed above the support plate 15 and facing the outside of the housing seat 18 .

[0092] In particular, the upper plate 16 may be made entirely or partially of a soft material that can be partially and elastically deformed.

[0093] Each component 11 comprises a spring device 19 which is arranged inside the housing seat 18 and is associated with the housing seat 18 on one side and with the coupling element 12 on the other side.

[0094] In particular, the spring device 19 is configured to selectively move the coupling element 12 in the axial direction relative to the housing seat 18 .

[0095] Reference Figures 2 to 8 The first component 11 a comprises a bellows device 20 which is arranged between the housing seat 18 and the coupling element 12 and is configured to cooperate with the spring device 19 upon the above-mentioned axial movement of the coupling element 12 .

[0096] Reference Figures 2 to 8 The second component 11b disposed to face and align with the first component 11a includes a circular coupling element 12a and an annular coupling element 12b that is concentric with the circular coupling element 12a and located outside the circular coupling element 12a.

[0097] The second component 11 b may comprise first spring means 19 a associated with the circular coupling element 12 a , and second spring means 19 b associated with the annular coupling element 12 b and independent of said first spring means 19 a .

[0098] Reference Figures 2 to 8 The annular connecting element 12 b protrudes above the circular connecting element 12 a and is located outside the housing seat portion 18 .

[0099] Each component 11 a , 11 b may comprise one or more guide pins 45 integral with the frame 17 to allow accurate sliding of the corresponding coupling element 12 to the frame 11 in the axial direction.

[0100] Furthermore, at least one of the components 11a , 11b may be provided with a centering pin 47 in the corresponding housing seat 18 , which is integral with the frame 17 and selectively projects to the center of the connecting element 12 so as to follow the movement of the connecting element toward the interior of the housing seat 18 .

[0101] According to the invention, the device 10 comprises one or more motor members 13, 14, 31, 40, which are configured at least to selectively move at least one of the components 11a, 11b along the working axis X to adjust the width and size of the joining area G, and the motor members are configured at least to selectively rotate the components 11a, 11b relative to each other around the working axis X to obtain the decomposition and subsequent recombination of the twisted portions of the fibers of the yarns F1, F2.

[0102] In particular, the first motor member 13 is configured to bring at least one of the two components 11a, 11b along the working axis X into one or more positions of cooperation with the other component 11a, 11b.

[0103] As a non-limiting example, in Figures 2 to 8 In the embodiment, the first component 11 a and the second component 11 b are associated with the support structure 21 , and the second component 11 b moves along the working axis X relative to the first component 11 a and the support structure 21 .

[0104] The first motor member 13 can drive at least one transmission mechanism 22, which, as a non-limiting example, includes a piston, a rack, and a gear, such as a gear. Fig. 9 A worm arrangement of the worm 48 and / or any other device capable of imparting a linear translational movement to at least one of the components 11a, 11b.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the second motor member 14 is configured to rotate the two parts 11a, 11b relative to each other in opposite directions about the working axis X so as to obtain a break-up and subsequent recombination of the twist of the fibers of the yarns F1, F2.

[0106] The second motor member 14 may drive movement means 23 comprising, by way of non-limiting example, toothed wheels 24 , 25 , 26 , belts and / or any other means capable of relative rotation of the two respective parts 11 a , 11 b .

[0107] As a non-limiting example, refer to Figures 4 to 8 The second motor member 14 rotates a toothed drive wheel 24 in one direction, which in turn rotates an intermediate element 25, which is configured to mate with the first component 11a on one side and with at least one moving counter-wheel 26 on the other side, which is configured to mate with the second component 11b to transmit a rotation that is always opposite to the rotation of the first component 11a.

[0108] In this case, the second motor member 14 reverses the rotation of the drive wheel 24 in order to reverse the rotation of the two components 11 a , 11 b .

[0109] According to the invention, the device 10 comprises a control unit 29 having an internal memory 44 provided with a list of functional parameters of the two components 11a, 11b for joining the yarns F1, F2. Such a control unit 29 may comprise, for example, a separate electronic card.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the functional parameters include: the movement speed of at least one component 11a, 11b along the working axis X; the rotation speed of the components 11a, 11b; the type of yarns F1, F2 to be connected; the thrust between the relative components 11a, 11b; and / or the contact area in the connecting area G between the relative connecting elements 12.

[0111] Depending on the operation to be performed and the type of yarn F1, F2, the functional parameters may also include, but are not limited to, a list of position coordinates of the components 11a, 11b along the working axis X and a list of rotation angles relative to the working axis.

[0112] Such functional parameters may be manually input by an operator or automatically input by a software system.

[0113] In particular, the memory 44 may be provided with a plurality of sets of functional parameters, each type of yarn to be connected corresponding to a set of functional parameters.

[0114] By yarn type we mean the consistency, material, average length of the fibers comprising the yarn, diameter of the yarn, and / or other characteristics that are similar or comparable.

[0115] In particular, the control unit 29 is configured to control and command one or more motor members 13 , 14 , 31 , 40 based on functional parameters present in such a memory 44 .

[0116] The control unit 29 may be mounted on the device 10, however, the device 10 may also be remotely driven and controlled.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the coupling device 10 comprises first sensor means 27 configured to detect the movement of the two components 11a, 11b towards and / or away from each other.

[0118] As non-limiting examples, the first sensor means 27 may be of the magnetic or optical type, and / or of any other type suitable for detecting a movement along the working axis X of at least one component 11 a , 11 b .

[0119] As a non-limiting example ( Figures 4 to 8), the first sensor device 27 comprises: at least one transmitter arranged on the part 11b moving along the working axis X; and a corresponding receiver associated with the support structure 21 and fixedly arranged relative to the working axis X. In this way, when the second part 11b moves along the working axis X, the receiver detects the distance from the transmitter.

[0120] As a non-limiting example, the transmitter may be a magnetic member and the receiver may be an inductive sensor.

[0121] If both parts 11a, 11b are movable along the working axis X, a transmitter may be provided on each part 11a, 11b.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the control unit 29 is configured to command one or more motor members 13 , 14 , 31 , 40 depending on the functional parameter and the value detected by the first sensor device 27 .

[0123] According to one embodiment, the coupling device 10 comprises a second sensor device 28 configured to detect the angle of rotation of at least one of the two components 11a, 11b.

[0124] As non-limiting examples, the second sensor device 28 may be of the magnetic type or of the optical type and / or of any other type suitable for detecting a rotation of at least one component 11a , 11b about the working axis X.

[0125] As a non-limiting example, refer to Figures 4 to 8 , the second sensor device 28 may comprise: at least one signaling device 28a, which is arranged integrally with at least one component 11a, 11b; and at least one corresponding collecting element 28b associated with the support structure 21, which is arranged fixed relative to the working axis X. In this way, when the component 11a, 11b on which the signaling device 28a is mounted rotates around the working axis X, the collecting element 28b detects the distance to the signaling device 28a.

[0126] Reference Figure 2 The second sensor device 28 may comprise one or more signal devices 28a arranged at an angular distance on the components 11a, 11b such that each signal cooperating with a collecting element 28b is intended to identify the angular position of the components 11a, 11b by 28a.

[0127] As non-limiting examples, the signaling device 28a may be a magnetic member or an element generating a light beam, and the collecting element 28b may be an inductive sensor or an optical sensor, respectively.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the control unit 29 is configured to command one or more motor members 13 , 14 , 31 , 40 depending on the functional parameter and the value detected by the second sensor device 28 .

[0129] In particular, the control unit 29 is configured to command the first motor member 13 and the second motor member 14 depending on the functional parameter and the values ​​detected by the first sensor device 27 and the second sensor device 28 , respectively.

[0130] In this way, the control unit adjusts the distance and the corresponding rotation between the two components 11a, 11b in an extremely precise and fast manner, acquires in real time the values ​​detected by the first sensor device 27 and the second sensor device 28, compares the values ​​with the pre-stored functional parameters, and in case of inconsistency, can modify the position of the components 11a, 11b in real time to obtain high-quality linked yarns.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the device comprises third motor means 31 configured to drive holding means 30 suitable for keeping the yarns F1 , F2 taut in the joining zone G.

[0132] The retaining device 30 can be moved from an inactive position, which does not interfere with the joining area G, to an operative position, situated on the opposite side of the joining area G, in which the retaining device cooperates with the parts 11 a , 11 b .

[0133] In particular, the third motor member 31 is configured at least to move the holding device 30 from the inactive position to the operating position.

[0134] Furthermore, the third motor member 31 may be configured to move the holding device 30 so as to keep the yarns F1 , F2 under tension in the joining region G.

[0135] The holding device 30 may include a pair of jaws 32 configured to selectively hold the yarns F1 , F2 and maintain tension on the yarns throughout the bonding period.

[0136] In particular, the pair of pincers 32 may be arranged transversely to the working axis X.

[0137] The third motor member 31 may be configured to activate each jaw 32 so that it holds the yarn F1 , F2 in the operating position.

[0138] Reference Figures 2 to 8 , the holding device 30 comprises, for each pincer 32 , one or more articulated arms 33 , which are associated on one side with the third motor 31 and on the other side with the respective pincer 32 .

[0139] The third motor member 31 may be configured to move an articulated arm 33 associated with each pincer 32 so as to bring the respective pincer 32 into an operating position for holding the yarn F1 , F2.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the hitch device 10 comprises third sensor means 34 configured to detect the movement of the holding means 30 from the operative position to the inactive position and vice versa.

[0141] As non-limiting examples, the third sensor device 34 may be a sensor device of the magnetic type and / or of the optical type.

[0142] By way of non-limiting example ( Figures 4 to 8 ), the third sensor device 34 may include two detection elements 34b arranged on the third motor component 31 and an element 34a to be detected, which is associated with the articulated arm 33 connected to the third motor component 31, for example.

[0143] In particular, in this case, the two detection elements 34 b recognize the inactive position and the operating position of the pair of pincers 32 .

[0144] The control unit 29 may be configured to command the third motor member 31 depending on the functional parameters and the values ​​detected by the first sensor 27, the second sensor 28 and the third sensor 34. In this way, the tensioning and maintenance of the yarn in the joining zone G may be automated.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the device 10 comprises a fourth motor member 40 configured to drive a removal device 36 capable of removing end portions of the yarns F1 , F2 that are not necessary for the joining.

[0146] In particular, the removal device 36 comprises a pair of clamping elements 37 arranged aligned with each other and opposite the joining zone G, preferably on both sides where the yarns F1, F2 are fed towards the two parts 11a, lib.

[0147] The removal device 36 may comprise a guide element 38 associated with a respective clamping element 37 .

[0148] In particular, these guide elements 38 are configured to move the corresponding clamping element 37 parallel to the working axis X.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the fourth motor member 40 is configured to move each clamping element 37 along the respective guide element 38 to a desired position in order to remove an end portion of the yarn F1 , F2.

[0150] The fourth motor member 40 may also be configured to activate the pair of clamping elements 37 to clamp the end portion of the corresponding yarn to be removed and drag the end portion along the guide element 38 to tear the end portion by pulling the yarn.

[0151] The fourth motor member 40 may be derived from the third motor member 31 .

[0152] The removal device 36 may be arranged in correspondence with the jaws 32 of the holding device 30 and may be configured to cooperate with the jaws during the joining of the yarns F1 , F2.

[0153] The device 10 can be provided with a fourth sensor device 39 which detects the position of the clamping element 37 along the guide element 38 .

[0154] As non-limiting examples, such fourth sensor device 39 may be a sensor device of the magnetic type, of the optical type, of the inductive type, and / or of the capacitive type.

[0155] The control unit 29 can be configured to move the pairs of clamping elements 37 along the corresponding guide elements 38 by partitioning the fourth motor member 40, depending on the functional parameters and the values ​​detected by the first sensor device 27, the second sensor device 28, the third sensor device 31 and the fourth sensor device 40. In this way, the joining of the yarns F1, F2 can be fully automated, thereby reducing the operator's intervention to a minimum and optimizing the device 10.

[0156] Furthermore, the device 10 can be provided with at least one sensor for identifying the yarns F1 , F2 to be bound.

[0157] This identification sensor may be optical and detects the diameter of the yarns F1, F2 and the material constituting them and transmits these parameters to the control unit 29. The control unit 29 selects the functional parameters of the device 10 suitable for the yarn to be joined thus identified.

[0158] According to a variant, the control unit 29 is suitable for dialoguing with a yarn clearer (not shown) situated downstream of the device 10, in order to evaluate the obtained bond. If the yarn clearer is electronic, the dialog may be mutual.

[0159] According to a variant, the device is equipped with detection means configured to detect at least the thickness of the yarn.

[0160] Such detection means may interact with the device 10 directly or via the control unit 29 .

[0161] Such detection means may be provided as at least one sensor for verifying the performed joining, by way of non-limiting example an optical sensor.

[0162] As non-limiting examples, the verification sensor may detect the diameter, length, number of twists and tightness of the yarn joint obtained.

[0163] In particular, the control unit 29 can compare the parameters detected by the verification sensor with the expected parameters preset in the memory 44, also taking into account possible tolerances. Based on this comparison, the control unit 29 can update and correct the functional parameters of the device 10 pre-stored in the memory 44.

[0164] For example, the control unit 29 can also communicate to the operator anomalies found in a just-made joint or in the device 10 by means of optical and / or acoustic signals.

[0165] Advantageously, the control unit 29 is of programmable type, capable of controlling and commanding the device 10 in a dynamic and universal manner, identifying the type of yarns F1 , F2 to be bound and evaluating the bond obtained in order to obtain the best possible result.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the device 10 is provided with a pair of cutting elements 35 configured to cut the end portions of the yarns to be bound.

[0167] In particular, the cutting element 35 protrudes diametrically from the frame 17 of at least one of the components 11a, 11b.

[0168] The cutting element 35 may be selectively removed from the frame 17 to facilitate maintenance and replacement operations of the cutting element 35 itself.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the cutting element 35 is configured to rotate integrally with the parts 11a, 11b on which it is mounted and to cut the end portions of the yarns F1, F2 that are unnecessary for joining.

[0170] The cutting element 35 may be a blade, a cutting plate, or a cutting element arranged to protrude from the frame 17 and to be integral with the frame so as to cut the yarns F1, F2 during the rotation of the parts 11a, lib.

[0171] According to a variant, a cutting element 35 may be provided on the first part 11 a and another cutting element 35 may be provided on the second part 11 b so as to cooperate with each other during the above-mentioned rotation.

[0172] Advantageously, the pair of cutting elements 35 is particularly effective in the case of partially or fully elasticized textile yarns, as they cleanly cut the end portions of the yarns F1 , F2, thereby preventing the use of the removal device 36 which would cause stretching of the yarn and loss of yarn elasticity.

[0173] A method for joining the opposite ends of two textile yarns F1, F2 can be obtained by decomposing and subsequently recombining the twist of the fibers of these ends to produce a single yarn F.

[0174] In particular, refer to Figures 4 to 8 , the connection method includes:

[0175] - a joining region G between respective joining elements 12 aligned along the working axis X and facing each other ( Figure 4a-4c ), two yarns F1 and F2 to be connected are introduced between the two components 11a and 11b;

[0176] - Drive the two parts 11a, 11b closer to each other along the working axis X ( Figure 5a-5c ) until there is at least partial contact between the facing connecting elements 12;

[0177] - Rotate the two parts 11a, 11b in opposite directions ( Figure 5a to Figure 5c ), thereby driving the two yarns F1 and F2 to be close to each other and parallel to each other in the connecting area G;

[0178] - Remove the end portions of the yarns F1 and F2 that do not contribute to the bonding ( Figures 6a to 6c ), thereby obtaining the two ends of the two yarns F1 and F2 to be connected;

[0179] - bringing the ends of the two yarns F1, F2 to be joined together until said ends substantially overlap;

[0180] - Counter-rotating the two parts 11a, 11b in opposite directions to each other in order to twist the opposite ends of the two yarns F1, F2 so as to form a single yarn F.

[0181] According to the invention, the method also comprises making available in the internal memory 44 of the control unit 29 a list of functional parameters of the components 11 a , 11 b for joining the textile yarns.

[0182] According to the functional parameters, the control unit 29 commands and controls one or more motor members 13 , 14 , 31 , 40 assigned to perform one or more of the above steps.

[0183] In particular, in order to carry out the above steps, the two parts 11 a , 11 b adopt different working positions along the working axis X in a manner related to each other.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the method comprises detecting and monitoring the movement of at least one of the components 11a, 11b along the working axis X.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the method comprises detecting the rotation of at least one of the parts 11a, 11b about the working axis X during rotation and counter-rotation.

[0186] Advantageously, the control unit 29 commands and controls the operation of the components 11a, 11b based on the functional parameters stored in the internal memory 44 and based on the parameters detected in the above-mentioned detections, so as to automate and optimize the joining of the yarns F1, F2.

[0187] In particular, the first motor member 13 drives the two components 11a, 11b closer to each other until there is contact between the connecting element 12 of the first component 11a and the outer annular connecting element 12b of the second component 11b ( Figure 5a to Figure 5c ).

[0188] This bringing together allows clamping the two yarns F1 , F2 directly between the coupling element 12 of the first part 11 a and the outer annular coupling element 12b of the second part 11 b .

[0189] When the yarns F1 and F2 are clamped between the two parts 11a and 11b, the third motor component 31 can command the holding device 30 to selectively clamp the yarns F1 and F2 in a suitable position outside the parts 11a and 11b. In the step of rotating the two parts 11a and 11b in opposite directions relative to each other, the second motor component 14 can command the two parts 11a and 11b to rotate in opposite directions, thereby driving the two yarns F1 and F2 close to each other and parallel along the diameter determined by the connecting element 12 and the annular connecting element 12b facing each other and cooperating with each other.

[0190] In particular, during all the steps described above, the command unit 29 commands and controls the holding device 30 so that the yarns F1, F2 always maintain the correct tension in the joining zone G.

[0191] The parallelization between the two yarns F1, F2 can be guided in a known manner by at least two or more pins 41 being arranged to protrude on the two connecting elements 12, so that during rotation, the relative pins 41 are aligned along the diameter, thereby stretching the two yarns F1, F2 along said position as described above.

[0192] In particular, when the yarns have been parallelized in the connecting area G, the first motor component 13 can drive the two components 11a and 11b to approach each other until there is contact between the connecting element 12 of the first component 11a and the centering pin 47 of the second component 11b, thereby constraining the two parallelized yarns F1 and F2 in the center between the two components 11a and 11b ( Figures 6a to 6c ). In particular, in this position in which the connecting elements 12, 12a, 12b are not in contact, the end portion of the yarn is removed.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the removal is performed by cutting or advantageously by tearing.

[0194] In particular, in the event of tearing, the fourth motor member 40 drives the removal device 36 to tear the end portion of the yarns F1 , F2 coming out of the joining zone G after the parts 11a , 11b have rotated.

[0195] In particular, in the case of cutting, since the cutting element 35 is integral with the frame 17, it is arranged parallel to the yarns F1, F2 during rotation, cutting the end portions of the respective yarns F1, F2 coming out of the two parts 11a, 11b.

[0196] Reference Figure 6b , the cutting element 35 can cooperate with the clamping element 37 to obtain a cleaner and more precise cut of the yarns F1, F2.

[0197] The step of bringing the two ends of the two opposite yarns F1, F2 closer to each other may take place during and / or after the removal of the tail ( Figures 7a to 7c ).

[0198] In particular, at least one of the two components 11a, 11b may be provided with a clamping device 43 ( Figure 7b ), the clamping device is configured to selectively protrude from the connecting element 12 and drive the ends of the yarns F1 and F2 closer to each other.

[0199] The clamping device 43 may have an automatic drive that rotates following the components 11 a , 11 b .

[0200] For example, the clamping device 43 may be driven by opposing rods which may be mechanically activated at the end of the rotational travel of the respective part 11 a , 11 b to which the rod is mounted.

[0201] According to a variant, the gripping means 43 can be commanded by a dedicated motor.

[0202] As a non-limiting example, the clamping means 43 may comprise one or more jaws integral with the frame 17 , arranged inside the housing seat 18 and passing through the thickness of the coupling element 12 .

[0203] In particular, such a clamping device 43 is retracted into the thickness of the connecting element 12 .

[0204] For example, the jaws of the clamping device 43 protrude from the connecting element 12 so as to follow the movement of the connecting element toward the interior of the housing seat 18 .

[0205] According to one embodiment, at least one of the two components 11a, 11b may include a plurality of holes 42, which are arranged on at least one component 11a, 11b and are configured to introduce or suck air between the cooperating components 11a, 11b, thereby driving the terminal ends of the two yarns F1, F2 closer to each other and promoting the twisting of the terminal ends.

[0206] Such holes 42 may be arranged along the diameter of the connecting element 12 .

[0207] The hole 42 can be configured to cooperate with the clamping device 43 to optimize bringing the fibers at the ends of the two yarns F1 and F2 together by introducing or preferably sucking air into the joining area G to bring the two ends to be joined close together and compress the two ends to be joined.

[0208] The control unit 29 may be configured to command means for sucking / blowing air (not shown) which cooperate with the operation of the components 11a , 11b during coupling and which are configured to send / suck in air, for example through the holes 42 .

[0209] In particular, the hole 42 can be provided on one component 11a, 11b and the clamping device 43 can be provided on the other component 11a, 11b facing the component. In this way, the cooperation between the hole 42 and the clamping device 43 is more effective.

[0210] As a non-limiting example, refer to Figures 4a to 8a and Figures 4b to 6b , the hole 42 may be provided on the coupling element 12 of the first component 11a, and the clamping device 43 may be provided on the inner circular coupling element 12a of the second component 11b.

[0211] When the ends of the yarns F1, F2 have been brought close to each other, the first motor member 13 can command the components 11a, 11b to be brought together so that the surfaces of the two oppositely facing connecting elements 12 are in full contact. For example, in this case, the clamping device 43 is hidden in the thickness of the corresponding connecting element 12a, 12b.

[0212] Subsequently, the control unit 29 commands the second motor member 14 to reversely rotate the two components 11a, 11b in directions opposite to each other and opposite to the previous rotation, thereby twisting the ends of the two yarns F1, F2 relative to each other ( Figures 8a to 8c ).

[0213] The parts 11a, 11b are then moved away from each other by the first motor member 13 in order to extract the yarn F obtained.

[0214] Fig. 9 A variant of the present device 10 is shown in which the motor member 13 may be a stepper motor configured to translate at least one of the two parts 11, 11b in one direction via a worm 48. Such a worm 48 may be associated, for example, with part 11b, which would have a corresponding nut for this purpose.

[0215] The motor member 13 may be equipped with a position sensor 49 as an alternative to or in combination with the first sensor device 27. Basically, therefore, the present device 10 may comprise the first sensor device 27, the position sensor 49 or a combination of both.

[0216] The motor member 14 that commands the relative rotation of the two components 11a, 11b can be a stepper motor equipped with a position sensor 50, which is an alternative to or in combination with the second sensor device 28, and the second sensor device is configured to detect the rotation angle of at least one of the components 11a, 11b. Therefore, basically, the present device 10 can include the second sensor device 28, the position sensor 50 or a combination of the two.

[0217] As in Figure 4 As seen in the variant of , the control unit 29 will be associated with the motor members 13 and 14 and configured to command the motor members 13 and 14 as a function of the functional parameters and the values ​​detected by such position sensors 49 and 50 or encoders.

[0218] Position sensors may also be associated with other motor components present in the present device 10 .

[0219] For example, the third motor member 31 configured to drive the holding device 30 suitable for keeping the yarns F1, F2 under tension in the joining zone G may be equipped with a position sensor or an encoder.

[0220] The fourth motor member 40 configured to drive the removal device 36 may also be equipped with a position sensor or encoder.

[0221] It is clear that modifications and / or additions of parts may be made to the coupling device 10 described above without departing from the field and scope of the present invention.

[0222] It is also clear that, although the invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person skilled in the art will certainly be able to implement many other equivalent forms of the device 10 which have the characteristics set out in the claims and which therefore fall within the scope of protection defined thereby.

[0223] In the accompanying claims, the sole purpose of reference signs between parentheses is to facilitate reading: these reference signs shall not be construed as limiting factors with respect to the scope of protection claimed in a particular claim.

Claims

1. A joining device for joining textile yarns (F1, F2), the joining device being used to join the ends of two textile yarns (F1, F2) to form a single yarn (F) by decomposing the twisted parts of the fibers at the opposite ends and then recombining the ends, the joining device (10) comprising two counter-rotating parts (11a, 11b), each of which is provided with at least one joining element (12), and the parts are arranged opposite to each other so as to define a joining area (G) between the respective joining elements (12) facing each other and aligned along a working axis (X), the joining device being characterized in that the joining device (10) include: - a plurality of motor members, at least one of which is configured to selectively move at least one of the components (11a, 11b) along the working axis (X) so as to adjust the width and size of the joining area (G), and at least one of which is configured to selectively rotate the components (11a, 11b) relative to each other around the working axis (X) so as to obtain a decomposition and subsequent recombination of the twisted portions of the fibers of the textile yarn (F1, F2), the plurality of motor members a further motor member (31) in the coupling member configured to drive a holding device (30) suitable for keeping the textile yarn (F1, F2) tensioned in the coupling area (G), the holding device (30) being movable from an inactive position not interfering with the coupling area (G) to an operating position located on the opposite side of the coupling area (G), in which the holding device cooperates with the components (11a, 11b), the further motor member being configured at least to move the holding device (30) from the inactive position to the operating position; - A control unit (29) having an internal memory (44) provided with a list of functional parameters of the two components (11a, 11b) and the retaining device (30) for linking the textile yarns (F1, F2), the control unit (29) being configured to control and command the plurality of motor components based on the functional parameters present in the internal memory (44).

2. The connecting device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The functional parameters include: the movement speed of at least one component (11a, 11b) along the working axis (X); the rotation speed of the components (11a, 11b); the type of textile yarns (F1, F2) to be connected; the thrust between the relative components (11a, 11b); and / or the contact area in the connecting area (G) between the relative connecting elements (12).

3. The connection device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The plurality of motor members are stepper type or brushless type electric motors.

4. The connecting device according to claim 3, It is characterized in that At least one motor member is equipped with a position sensor (50, 51), and the control unit (29) is configured to command the at least one motor member according to the functional parameter and the value detected by the position sensor (50, 51).

5. The connection device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The coupling device comprises first sensor means (27) configured to detect movement of the two components (11a, 11b) towards and / or away from each other, and the control unit (29) is configured to command the plurality of motor members according to the functional parameter and the value detected by the first sensor means (27).

6. The connecting device according to claim 5, It is characterized in that The coupling device comprises a second sensor device (28) configured to detect a rotation angle of at least one of the components (11a, 11b), and the control unit (29) is configured to command a motor component that selectively moves at least one of the components (11a, 11b) along the working axis (X) and a motor component that selectively rotates the components (11a, 11b) relative to each other around the working axis (X) based on the functional parameter and the value detected by the second sensor device (28).

7. The connecting device according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The coupling device comprises a first motor component (13) and a second motor component (14), the first motor component being configured to selectively move at least one of the two components (11a, 11b) along the working axis (X), the second motor component being configured to rotate the two components (11a, 11b) relative to each other in opposite directions around the working axis (X), the control unit (29) being configured to command the first motor component (13) and the second motor component (14) according to the functional parameters and the values ​​detected by the first sensor device (27) and the second sensor device (28), respectively.

8. The connecting device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The coupling device comprises a sensor device (34) configured to detect the movement of the retaining device (30) from the operating position to the inactive position and from the inactive position to the operating position, the control unit (29) being configured to command the further motor member (31) as a function of the functional parameter and at least a value detected by the sensor device (34).

9. The connecting device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The connecting device includes another motor component (40), which is configured to drive a removal device (36), which is suitable for removing the end portion of the textile yarn (F1, F2) that is unnecessary for the connection, and the removal device (36) includes a pair of clamping elements (37) and corresponding guiding elements (38), the clamping elements are arranged to be aligned with each other and opposite to the connecting area (G), the guiding elements (38) are associated with the corresponding clamping elements and are configured to move the corresponding clamping elements in a manner parallel to the working axis (X), and the other motor component (40) is configured to move each clamping element along the corresponding guiding element (38) to a desired position, thereby removing the end portion of the textile yarn (F1, F2).

10. The connection device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The connecting device is provided with a pair of cutting elements (35), which protrude from the frame (17) of at least one of the components (11a, 11b) at a diametric position and can be selectively removed from the frame, and the cutting elements (35) are configured to rotate integrally with the components (11a, 11b) and cut the end portions of the textile yarns (F1, F2) that are unnecessary for the connection.

11. The connection device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that One of the two components (11a, 11b) is provided with a clamp-like type clamping device (43), which is configured to selectively protrude from the connecting element (12) and drive the two ends of the textile yarn (F1, F2) to be connected closer to each other, and wherein the other of the two components (11a, 11b) includes a plurality of holes (42), which are arranged along the diameter of the corresponding connecting element (12), and the plurality of holes are configured to cooperate with the clamping device (43) to introduce air into the connecting area (G) or suck air out of the connecting area (G) to drive the two ends to be connected closer together and press the two ends to be connected.

12. A method for joining two textile yarns (F1, F2) at opposite ends to make a single yarn (F) by breaking up and then recombining the twisted portions of the fibers at the ends using a joining device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, said method include: - introducing two textile yarns (F1, F2) to be joined between two parts (11a, 11b), each of said parts being provided with at least one joining element (12) and said two parts being arranged opposite one another so as to define a joining region (G) between said respective joining elements (12) facing one another and aligned along a working axis (X); - driving the two components (11a, 11b) closer to each other along the working axis (X) until there is at least partial contact between the facing connecting elements (12); - causing the two components (11a, 11b) to rotate in opposite directions, thereby driving the two textile yarns (F1, F2) close to each other and parallel to each other in the connecting area (G); - removing the end portions of the textile yarns (F1, F2) that will not contribute to the joining, thereby obtaining the two ends of the two textile yarns (F1, F2) to be joined; - bringing the ends of the two textile yarns (F1, F2) to be connected together until they overlap; - causing the two components (11a, 11b) to rotate in opposite directions to each other, thereby twisting the opposite ends of the two textile yarns (F1, F2) to form a single yarn (F); - during the preceding steps, the textile yarns (F1, F2) are kept taut in the joining region (G) by means of the holding device (30), The method is characterized in that the method also includes making a list of functional parameters of the components (11a, 11b) for connecting the textile yarn available in the internal memory (44) of the control unit (29), wherein the control unit (29) commands and controls multiple motor components according to the functional parameters, and the multiple motor components are assigned to perform the following steps: introducing the textile yarn into the connecting area (G); driving the two components (11a, 11b) close together; rotating the two components (11a, 11b); removing the end portion of the textile yarn (F1, F2); driving the obtained ends of the textile yarn (F1, F2) close together; and rotating the two components (11a, 11b) in opposite directions; and keeping the textile yarn (F1, F2) taut in the connecting area (G) by the holding device (30).

13. The method according to claim 12, It is characterized in that The method comprises: - detecting and monitoring the movement of at least one of the components (11a, 11b) along the working axis (X); - detecting the rotation of at least one of the parts (11a, 11b) about the working axis (X) during rotation and counter-rotation; The control unit (29) commands and controls the operation of the plurality of motor components based on the functional parameters stored in the internal memory (44) and based on the parameters detected in the detection.

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