Yarn monitoring device and yarn winding machine

Abstract

A yarn monitoring device and a yarn winding machine capable of reducing the influence of stray light are provided. A yarn monitoring device (8) has a housing (55a) having a first member (61) and a second member (62) including faces opposing in an x direction, forming a running area (R1) of a yarn (Y), and forming an open portion (69) open toward a y direction. A restriction portion (75, 78) having a plurality of light-blocking face portions (76) and transparent portions (77) is provided between the openings (61e, 62e) and light-receiving faces (67a, 68a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a yarn monitoring device and a yarn winding machine. Background Technology

[0002] A yarn monitoring device for detecting the state of yarn is mounted on a yarn winding machine. For example, as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-177380, a yarn monitoring device is known, which has a first holder and a second holder stacked in a manner arranged along the yarn's travel direction. The first holder is configured as a first detection module having the function of detecting foreign matter mixed into the yarn. The second holder is configured as a second detection module having the function of detecting the thickness of the yarn. The first and second detection modules each have a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, and the state of the yarn is detected based on the amount of light received by the light-receiving element. A light-receiving window is provided on both the first and second holders. In the yarn monitoring device described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-177380, each light-receiving element is arranged in close contact with each light-receiving window.

[0003] The yarn travel area is shaped like a U-shaped channel, opening towards the side (front side) where the working passage is provided relative to the yarn winding machine. That is, an opening is formed at the front of the yarn travel area. Yarn inlets and outlets are formed on the upstream and downstream sides of the yarn travel area. In the yarn monitoring device, interference entering the travel area through the opening, inlet, or outlet can sometimes affect the amount of light received. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a yarn monitoring device and a yarn winding machine that can reduce the impact of interference.

[0005] One aspect of the yarn monitoring device of the present invention comprises: a housing having a first component and a second component including surfaces opposing each other in a first direction orthogonal to the yarn's travel direction, a yarn travel region being formed between the first component and the second component, and an opening portion opening toward and towards the travel direction in a second direction orthogonal to both the travel direction and the first direction; a detection unit having at least one light-emitting element and at least one light-receiving element, and detecting yarn traveling in the travel region, the at least one light-emitting element being disposed on at least one of the first component and the second component, the at least one light-receiving element being disposed on at least one of the first component and the second component, and including a light-receiving surface facing the opening formed on the first component and / or the second component; and a limiting portion having a plurality of light-shielding surfaces and a passage portion, the light-shielding surfaces forming angles greater than 0 and less than 90 degrees relative to the light-receiving surfaces on the opposite side of the opening portion, the passage portions being formed between the light-shielding surfaces and allowing transmitted light or reflected light reflected by the yarn in the travel region to pass through. The limiting part is provided at least at any one of the following locations: inside the opening, between the opening and the light-receiving surface, and on the travel area side of the opening.

[0006] According to this yarn monitoring device, transmitted light or reflected light from the yarn is received through an opening in the light-receiving element. The light received by the light-receiving element passes through the passage portion of the limiting section and reaches the light-receiving surface. The limiting section has multiple light-shielding surfaces that form angles of 90 degrees or less relative to the light-receiving surface on the opposite side of the opening. "Forming angle" refers to a predetermined angle greater than 0 degrees formed between the light-receiving surface and the light-shielding surfaces. Because the multiple light-shielding surfaces are not parallel to the light-receiving surface and form angles on the opposite side of the opening, they block the incidence of light from a predetermined direction (e.g., light entering through the opening) while allowing light to pass through the passage portion. With the yarn monitoring device equipped with the limiting section, the effects of interference can be reduced.

[0007] In the yarn monitoring device, the light-shielding surface of the limiting part may intersect the second direction and extend in a direction parallel to the yarn's travel direction. With this structure, since the light-shielding surface is not parallel to the second direction, it can block interfering light from the second direction. It can also block light that enters through the opening.

[0008] In a yarn monitoring device, the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element may be arranged opposite each other in a first direction, and the extending direction of the light-shielding surface may be the same as or form an angle of 5 degrees or less with respect to the direction of connection between the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element. With this structure, light input to the light-receiving element can easily pass through the passage of the limiting portion.

[0009] In a yarn monitoring device, the light-shielding surface may have a length L in a first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces may be arranged with a distance D in a second direction, such that the relationship "distance D / length L ≤ 1" holds. According to this structure, the distance D is equal to or less than the length L (i.e., the thickness of the limiting portion). Therefore, in this type of yarn monitoring device where the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element are arranged opposite each other in the first direction, interfering light from the second direction can be reliably blocked.

[0010] Alternatively, the ratio of the distance from the yarn path position to the light-receiving surface in the first direction to the effective surface width of the light-receiving surface in the second direction can be a value within the range of 0.5 to 5.0. According to this structure, a distance is ensured between the yarn being measured and the light-receiving element that allows for attenuation of the reflected signal from the yarn. This enables the elimination of noise components, primarily those reflected from the yarn, in optical yarn monitoring devices.

[0011] Alternatively, the ratio of the distance from the yarn path position to the light-receiving surface in the first direction to the effective surface width of the light-receiving surface in the second direction can be a value within the range of 1.0 to 2.5. According to this structure, the removal effect of the aforementioned noise components can be more effectively achieved.

[0012] In a yarn monitoring device, the first component may include a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, with the light-emitting element positioned opposite the light-receiving element on the open portion in the second direction. According to this structure, in this type of yarn monitoring device that detects reflected light, the effects of interference can be reduced.

[0013] In the yarn monitoring device, the light-receiving element may include: a first light-receiving element, which includes a first light-receiving surface facing a first opening formed on a first component; and a second light-receiving element, which includes a second light-receiving surface facing a second opening formed on a second component; the light-emitting element includes a first light-emitting element disposed on the first component and a second light-emitting element disposed on the second component; the limiting portion includes a first limiting portion disposed on the first component and a second limiting portion disposed on the second component; the first limiting portion is disposed at least at any one of the following: within the first opening, between the first opening and the first light-receiving surface, and on the travel area side of the first opening; the second limiting portion is disposed at at least at any one of the following: within the second opening, between the second opening and the second light-receiving surface, and on the travel area side of the second opening; the extending direction of the light-shielding surface of the first limiting portion is the same as or forms an angle of 5 degrees or less with respect to the first connecting direction; and the extending direction of the light-shielding surface of the second limiting portion is the same as or forms an angle of 5 degrees or less with respect to the second connecting direction. Based on this structure, transmitted and reflected light can be detected in light emitted from both directions. For example, it can detect foreign objects mixed in with yarn with high precision.

[0014] In a yarn monitoring device, the light-shielding surface may have a length L in a first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces may be arranged with a distance D in a second direction between them. The extension direction of the light-shielding surface forms an angle α with respect to the first direction, and the relationship "distance D / length L > tanα" holds true. Because of this relationship, transmitted light can be detected by the second light-emitting element and reflected light can be detected by the first light-emitting element, for example. Therefore, the influence of interference can be reduced.

[0015] In a yarn monitoring device, the light-shielding surface may have a length L in a first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces may be arranged with a distance D in a second direction, such that the relationship "distance D / length L > 1" holds true. Because of this relationship, transmitted light can be detected by the second light-emitting element, and reflected light can be detected by the first light-emitting element. Therefore, the influence of interference can be reduced.

[0016] In a yarn monitoring device, the light-shielding surface can have a length L in a first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces can be arranged with a distance D in a second direction, such that the relationship "distance D / length L ≤ 3" holds. According to this structure, the size of the distance D is set to block the incident interference light while allowing the detection of reflected light. Therefore, noise in the detection signal is reduced, resulting in an improved signal-to-noise ratio (S / N ratio). The S / N ratio is the ratio of the detection signal to the noise.

[0017] In the yarn monitoring device, the light-shielding surface may extend in a direction parallel to the second direction and in a direction forming an angle of 5 degrees or less with respect to the first direction. According to this structure, light intruding through the yarn's inlet and / or outlet located in the yarn's travel direction can be blocked within the housing.

[0018] Alternatively, the yarn monitoring device may further include an additional limiting part arranged parallel to the limiting part in the first direction. This additional limiting part has multiple additional light-shielding surfaces and additional passing parts. The additional light-shielding surfaces form angles of 90 degrees or less relative to the opposite side of the open portion of the light-receiving surface in the yarn's travel direction. The additional passing parts are formed between the additional light-shielding surfaces, allowing transmitted light or reflected light from the yarn within the travel area to pass through. Each of the multiple additional light-shielding surfaces forms an angle relative to each of the multiple light-shielding surfaces. According to this structure, the overlapping limiting part and additional limiting part allow the direction in which light is restricted (the light-shielding direction) to be any combination of two directions. Thus, interfering light from multiple directions (e.g., the second direction and the travel direction) can be blocked.

[0019] In yarn monitoring devices, the limiting part may be located only on the opening side of the opening. This structure can reduce interference light while preventing light attenuation from the light-emitting element, which serves as a light source.

[0020] In the yarn monitoring device, the first component may have a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element. The light-emitting element faces other openings formed on the first component. Other limiting portions are provided at least at any of the following locations: within the other openings, between the other openings and the light-emitting element, and on the travel area side of the other openings. These other limiting portions have a plurality of other light-shielding surfaces extending along the optical axis of the light-emitting element, and other passing portions formed between the other light-shielding surfaces to allow light emitted from the light-emitting element to pass through. According to this structure, by applying the other limiting portions to the light-emitting element, it is possible to extract only nearly parallel light from the light irradiating the yarn.

[0021] Invention Effects

[0022] The yarn monitoring device according to the present invention can reduce the influence of interfering light. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a front view of a spinning machine as a yarn winding machine, representing one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the yarn monitoring device in a spinning machine.

[0025] Figure 3 It means Figure 2A three-dimensional view of the interior of the yarn monitoring device.

[0026] Figure 4 It means Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of the cage assembly.

[0027] Figure 5 It means Figure 4 Top sectional view of the first cage in the structure.

[0028] Figure 6A It means Figure 5 A diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the light-shielding surface in the limiting section. Figure 6B and Figure 6C This is a diagram showing other structural examples of a light-shielding face.

[0029] Figure 7 It means Figure 4 Top sectional view of the second cage.

[0030] Figure 8 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the overlapping and second limiting parts.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a top sectional view of the second cage, representing a modified example.

[0032] Figure 10 It means Figure 9 An exploded perspective view of the dustproof structure in the second cage.

[0033] Figure 11 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view along the XI-XI section line.

[0034] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 A sectional view along section line XII-XII.

[0035] Figure 13 It means Figure 9 A diagram showing the dimensions and configuration of the light-receiving element within the second holder. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or equivalent parts are labeled with the same reference numerals in the various figures, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0037] [Structure of a spinning machine]

[0038] like Figure 1As shown, the spinning machine (yarn winding machine) 1 includes multiple spinning units 2, a receiving carriage 3, a doffing carriage (not shown), a first end frame 4, and a second end frame 5. The multiple spinning units 2 are arranged in a row. Each spinning unit 2 generates yarn Y and winds it into a package P. If yarn Y is cut in a spinning unit 2, or if yarn Y breaks for some reason, the receiving carriage 3 performs a receiving operation in that spinning unit 2. If package P becomes fully wound in a spinning unit 2, the doffing carriage unwinds package P and supplies a new yarn tube B to that spinning unit 2.

[0039] The first end frame 4 houses a collection device for recovering fiber scraps and thread ends generated in the spinning unit 2. The second end frame 5 houses an air supply unit for regulating the pressure of compressed air supplied to the spinning machine 1 and supplying air to various parts of the spinning machine 1, and a drive motor for supplying power to various parts of the spinning unit 2. The second end frame 5 is equipped with a machine control device 5a, a display screen 5b, and input keys 5c. The machine control device 5a centrally manages and controls various parts of the spinning machine 1. The display screen 5b can display information related to the settings and / or status of the spinning unit 2. The spinning unit 2 can be set up by the operator using the input keys 5c.

[0040] Each spinning unit 2, in the direction of yarn Y travel, sequentially comprises, from the upstream side, a drafting device 6, an air spinning device 7, a yarn monitoring device 8, a tension sensor 9, a yarn storage device 11, a waxing device 12, and a winding device 13. A unit controller 10 is provided for each predetermined number of spinning units 2 and controls the operation of the spinning units 2. In each spinning unit 2, the drafting device 6 and the air spinning device 7 function as feeding devices for supplying yarn Y.

[0041] The drafting device 6 drafts the yarn (fiber bundle) S. The air spinning device 7 twists the fiber bundle F drafted by the drafting device 6 using a swirling airflow to generate yarn Y. The yarn storage device 11 eliminates slack in the yarn Y between the air spinning device 7 and the winding device 13. The waxing device 12 applies wax to the yarn Y between the yarn storage device 11 and the winding device 13. The winding device 13 winds the yarn Y supplied from the drafting device 6 (which functions as a yarn feeder) and the air spinning device 7 onto the yarn bobbin B to form a package P.

[0042] The yarn monitoring device 8 monitors the information of the traveling yarn Y between the air spinning device 7 and the yarn holding device 11, and detects the presence of yarn defects based on the monitored information. If a yarn defect is detected, the yarn monitoring device 8 sends a yarn defect detection signal to the unit controller 10. The tension sensor 9 measures the tension of the traveling yarn Y between the air spinning device 7 and the yarn holding device 11, and sends a tension measurement signal to the unit controller 10. If the unit controller 10 determines that an abnormality has occurred based on the detection results of at least one of the yarn monitoring device 8 and the tension sensor 9, it cuts the yarn Y in the spinning unit 2.

[0043] Hereinafter, the side with the working passage relative to the spinning machine 1 or the side of the yarn path relative to the yarn receiving carriage 3 will be referred to as the "front side (front of the machine)" and the opposite side will be referred to as the "rear side (rear of the machine)". The working passage is used by the operator when accessing various parts of the spinning machine 1. The words "up" and "down" correspond to the upward and downward directions in the vertical direction, respectively.

[0044] [Structure of the yarn monitoring device]

[0045] Next, refer to Figure 2 The following figures illustrate one embodiment of the yarn monitoring device 8. Figures 2-8 In this context, an orthogonal xyz coordinate system is recorded simultaneously for reference in determining the position, configuration, or orientation of components or constituent elements.

[0046] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the yarn monitoring device 8 includes a retainer assembly 50, a first flat substrate 51, a second flat substrate 52, a yarn guide 53, and a housing 54. The retainer assembly 50 has a first retainer 55 and a second retainer 56 stacked in a manner arranged along the yarn Y's travel direction. The yarn Y's travel direction is parallel to the z-direction in the figure.

[0047] like Figures 3-5As shown, the first retainer 55 constitutes a first detection module M1 for allowing the traveling yarn Y to pass through and detecting the state of the yarn Y. The first detection module M1 has at least a foreign object detection function for detecting foreign objects mixed into the traveling yarn Y. The first retainer 55 is disposed upstream of the second retainer 56. The first retainer 55 includes a housing 55a, for example, formed of resin. A travel region R1 is provided on the housing 55a of the first retainer 55. The travel region R1 is a space that extends along the travel path of the yarn Y and opens forward. The travel region R1 is a passage for the traveling yarn Y to pass through and is formed as a U-shaped groove that extends downstream from upstream and opens forward. The travel region R1 communicates with the travel region R2 of the second retainer 56. An upstream recess 102 is provided on the upper surface of the housing 55a of the first retainer 55 as a space for arranging a yarn guide 53.

[0048] Inside the housing 55a of the first retainer 55, light-emitting elements 63 and 64 and light-receiving elements 67 and 68 are mounted to measure the state of the yarn Y traveling within the travel region R1. The first retainer 55 supports the light-emitting elements 63 and 64 and the light-receiving elements 67 and 68. The light-emitting elements 63 and 64 and the light-receiving elements 67 and 68 are arranged such that the optical axes of each element are located on the same plane perpendicular to the travel direction of the yarn Y. For example, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) can be used as light-emitting elements 63 and 64. For example, photodiodes can be used as light-receiving elements 67 and 68.

[0049] The light-emitting element (second light-emitting element) 64 has a lead pin 64e, and the light-emitting element 63 (first light-emitting element) has a lead pin 63e. The tips of the leads 64e and 63e extend to the opposite side of the traveling region R1. The light-receiving element (second light-receiving element) 68 has a pair of leads 68e, and the light-receiving element (first light-receiving element) 67 has a pair of leads 67e.

[0050] The first detection module M1 illuminates light from the light-emitting element 64 onto the yarn Y traveling within the travel area R1. A light-receiving element 68 receives reflected light from the light emitted from the light-emitting element 64, which is reflected by the yarn Y, and a light-receiving element 67 receives transmitted light from the light emitted from the light-emitting element 64 that passes through the yarn Y. Conversely, light is also illuminated from the light-emitting element 63 onto the yarn Y traveling within the travel area R1. A light-receiving element 67 receives reflected light from the light emitted from the light-emitting element 63, which is reflected by the yarn Y, and a light-receiving element 68 receives transmitted light from the light emitted from the light-emitting element 63 that passes through the yarn Y. Foreign matter mixed into the yarn Y is detected based on the amount of reflected light received by the light-receiving elements 68 and 67.

[0051] A rigid-flexible substrate 90 is provided on the first retainer 55. The rigid-flexible substrate 90 includes a plurality of rigid portions 91, a plurality of flexible portions 92, and flexible connecting portions 93. The rigid portions 91 are made of a material with high rigidity, such as glass epoxy resin. The flexible portions 92 and the flexible connecting portions 93 are made of a material with high flexibility and bending capacity, such as polyimide.

[0052] The rigid portion 91 is a rigid substrate with wiring patterns and through holes, etc. Multiple rigid portions 91 are fixed to the side of the first retainer 55 by screws. On the rigid portion 91w on the side of the light-receiving element 68, the pins 68e of the light-receiving element 68 are connected by solder or the like. On the rigid portion 91x on the side of the light-receiving element 67, the pins 67e of the light-receiving element 67 are connected by solder or the like. On the rigid portion 91y on the side of the light-emitting element 64, the pins 64e of the light-emitting element 64 are connected by solder or the like. On the rigid portion 91z on the side of the light-emitting element 63, the pins 63e of the light-emitting element 63 are connected by solder or the like. The flexible portion 92 is a flexible substrate with wiring patterns, etc. The flexible portion 92 electrically connects adjacent rigid portions 91 to each other. The flexible connection portion 93 electrically connects the light-emitting elements 64 and 63 and the light-receiving elements 68 and 67 mounted on the first retainer 55 to the first flat substrate 51.

[0053] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the second retainer 56 constitutes a second detection module M2 for allowing the traveling yarn Y to pass through and detecting the state of the yarn Y. The second detection module M2 has a yarn thickness detection function for detecting the thickness of the traveling yarn Y. The second retainer 56 is disposed downstream of the first retainer 55. The second retainer 56 includes a housing 56a, for example, formed of resin. A traveling region R2 is provided on the housing 56a of the second retainer 56. The traveling region R2 is a space that extends along the traveling path of the yarn Y and opens to the front. The traveling region R2 is a passage for the traveling yarn Y to pass through and is formed as a U-shaped groove that extends from upstream to downstream and opens to the front.

[0054] Inside the housing 56a of the second retainer 56, a light-emitting element 83 and a light-receiving element 88 are mounted for measuring the state of the yarn Y traveling within the travel region R2. The second retainer 56 supports the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88. The light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88 are arranged opposite each other across the travel region R2. For example, an LED can be used as the light-emitting element 83. For example, a photodiode can be used as the light-receiving element 88. The light-emitting element 83 has a pin 83e. The tip of the pin 83e extends toward the opposite side of the travel region R2. The light-receiving element 88 has a pair of pins 88e. It should be noted that... Figure 7 The illustration of the flexible part, which will be described later, is omitted.

[0055] The second detection module M2 illuminates the yarn Y traveling within the travel area R2 from the light-emitting element 83. The light-receiving element 88 receives the transmitted light from the light-emitting element 83 that passes through the yarn Y. The thickness of the yarn Y is detected based on the amount of transmitted light received by the light-receiving element 88.

[0056] A rigid-flexible substrate 70 is provided on the second retainer 56. The rigid-flexible substrate 70 includes a plurality of rigid portions 71, a plurality of flexible portions 72, and flexible connecting portions 73. The rigid portions 71 are made of a material with high rigidity, such as glass epoxy resin. The flexible portions 72 and the flexible connecting portions 73 are made of a material with high flexibility and bending capacity, such as polyimide.

[0057] The rigid portion 71 is a rigid substrate with wiring patterns and through holes, etc. Multiple rigid portions 71 are fixed to the side of the second retainer 56 by screws. On the rigid portion 71x on the side of the light-emitting element 83, the pins 83e of the light-emitting element 83 are connected by solder or the like. On the rigid portion 71y on the side of the light-receiving element 88, the pins 88e of the light-receiving element 88 are connected by solder or the like. The flexible portion 72 is a flexible substrate with wiring patterns, etc. The flexible portion 72 electrically connects adjacent rigid portions 71 to each other. The flexible connection portion 73 electrically connects the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88 mounted on the second retainer 56 to the second flat substrate 52. The base end of the flexible connection portion 73 is electrically connected to the rigid portion 71 located on the rear side of the second retainer 56.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the first flat substrate 51 processes signals input and output to the light-emitting elements 64 and 63 mounted on the first holder 55. The second flat substrate 52 processes signals input and output to the light-emitting element 83 mounted on the second holder 56.

[0059] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the yarn guide 53 restricts the travel path of the yarn Y and guides the traveling yarn Y. One yarn guide 53 is disposed on the upstream side and one on the downstream side of the retainer assembly 50 within the housing 54. One yarn guide 53 is inserted into the upstream recess 102 of the first retainer 55. The other yarn guide (not shown) is inserted into the downstream recess (not shown) of the second retainer 56. Each yarn guide 53 is formed of a wear-resistant material (e.g., ceramic or titanium) and is in the shape of a rectangular plate. A groove 101 with a U-shaped or V-shaped bottom 101a is formed on the yarn guide 53. The yarn guide 53 guides the yarn Y to the travel areas R1 and R2 through the groove 101.

[0060] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the housing 54 forms the periphery of the yarn monitoring device 8. The housing 54 is composed of an upper housing portion 105 disposed on the upstream side and a lower housing portion 106 disposed on the downstream side. The upper housing portion 105 and the lower housing portion 106 can be joined together by screws. The housing 54 houses the retainer assembly 50, the first flat plate substrate 51, the second flat plate substrate 52, and the yarn guide member 53.

[0061] Reference Figures 5-8 The structure of the first retainer 55 and the second retainer 56 in the yarn monitoring device 8 will be described in detail. First, refer to... Figure 5 and Figures 6A to 6C The first retainer 55 will be described. The outer shell 55a of the first retainer 55 has a first component 61 and a second component 62, each having a surface facing each other in the x-direction (first direction) orthogonal to the yarn's Y-direction of travel. That is, the outer shell 55a can be divided in the x-direction. The outer shell 55a is constructed by combining a pair of separate parts formed by dividing in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the first retainer 55 may be integrally formed without dividing in the left-right direction. Even in that case, the first component 61 and the second component 62 still have surfaces facing each other in the x-direction.

[0062] A facing surface 61b and a receiving space 61c are formed on the front part 61a of the first component 61. The facing surface 61b extends along the yz direction. An opening (first opening) 61e, for example a rectangle, communicating with the receiving space 61c is formed on the facing surface 61b. A light-receiving window 65, which is transparent to light (visible light) emitted from the light-emitting element 64, is fixed in the opening 61e. The light-emitting element 63 is provided in the first component 61. The light-receiving element 67 is disposed and fixed in the receiving space 61c. The light-receiving surface (first light-receiving surface) 67a of the light-receiving element 67 extends, for example, parallel to the yz plane and faces the opening 61e (the light-receiving window 65 in this embodiment).

[0063] On the other hand, a counter surface 62b and a receiving space 62c are formed on the front part 62a of the second component 62. The counter surface 62b extends along the yz direction. An opening (second opening) 62e, for example a rectangle, communicating with the receiving space 62c is formed on the counter surface 62b. A light-receiving window 66, which is transparent to light (visible light) emitted from the light-emitting element 63, is fixed in the opening 62e. The light-emitting element 64 is provided in the second component 62. The light-receiving element 68 is disposed and fixed in the receiving space 62c. The light-receiving surface (second light-receiving surface) 68a of the light-receiving element 68 extends, for example, parallel to the yz plane and faces the opening 62e (the light-receiving window 66 in this embodiment).

[0064] Opposing surfaces 61b and 62b are separated by a predetermined distance in the x-direction, and a travel region R1 for yarn Y is formed between opposing surfaces 61b and 62b. An opening 69 is formed in the travel region R1 that opens in the y-direction (a second direction orthogonal to both the travel direction and the first direction). The opening 69 extends through the first retainer 55 in the z-direction. That is, the opening also opens in the z-direction (travel direction).

[0065] In the first detection module M1, light-emitting element 63, light-emitting element 64, light-receiving element 67, and light-receiving element 68 constitute a detection unit for detecting foreign matter (the state of yarn Y) mixed into yarn Y. The optical axis 63a of light-emitting element 63 is tilted at a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the xz plane. The optical axis 64a of light-emitting element 64 is tilted at a predetermined angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the xz plane. The optical axes 63a and 64a intersect near the front of the bottom 101a of the groove 101. In this specification, when referring to the "bottom 101a of the groove 101" to explain the position or arrangement of the constituent elements of the first detection module M1 or the second detection module M2, the position or arrangement of the "bottom 101a of the groove 101" refers to the groove 101 of the yarn guide 53 projected in the z-direction onto the xz plane. Figure 5 and Figure 7 The position or configuration on the sectional view. Therefore, in Figure 5 and Figure 7 In the diagram, "groove 101" and "bottom 101a" are shown with imaginary lines. The position of "bottom 101a" is roughly synonymous with the position of the yarn path in which yarn Y travels.

[0066] A limiting portion (first limiting portion) 75 is provided between the opening 61e and the light-receiving surface 67a of the light-receiving element 67, that is, between the light-receiving window 65 and the light-receiving surface 67a. This limiting portion 75 is used to reduce interference light incident from directions different from the transmitted light from the light-emitting element 64 and the reflected light from the light-emitting element 63. The limiting portion 75 limits the light-receiving direction of the light received by the light-receiving element 67. The limiting portion 75 is provided in a manner that extends parallel to the yz plane.

[0067] Reference Figure 6A The structure of the limiting part 75 is described in detail. For example... Figure 6AAs shown, the limiting part 75 is, for example, a plate-shaped component, having a plurality of light-shielding surfaces 76 arranged parallel to each other, and transparent portions (passage portions) 77 formed between the light-shielding surfaces 76. The light-shielding surfaces 76 are, for example, made of black silicone rubber with high light-shielding properties, and have a louver structure. The transparent portions 77 are, for example, made of transparent silicone rubber. In addition, a film made of polycarbonate or the like may be provided on both the surface 75a and the back surface 75b of the limiting part 75. Each light-shielding surface 76 is arranged at a predetermined angle relative to the xz plane. Each light-shielding surface 76 forms an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to the light-receiving surface 67a of the light-receiving element 67 on the opposite side of the open portion 69 in the y direction. For example, the angle of inclination of the light-shielding surface 76 relative to the light-receiving surface 67a is an acute angle. The angle of inclination of the light-shielding surface 76 is, for example, equal to the angle of inclination of the optical axis 64a of the light-emitting element 64 relative to the yz plane. Each light-shielding surface 76 extends in a direction intersecting the y direction (extending direction). In addition, each light-shielding surface 76 also has a specified length in the z direction (that is, it also extends along the z direction).

[0068] In another viewpoint, the extending direction of each light-shielding surface 76 of the limiting portion 75 is the same as the direction connecting the light-emitting element 64 and the light-receiving element 67 (the first connection direction). The extending direction of each light-shielding surface 76 of the limiting portion 75 may also form an angle of ±5 degrees or less relative to the direction connecting the light-emitting element 64 and the light-receiving element 67, preferably an angle of ±3 degrees or less. In this specification, positive (+) or negative (-) symbols are sometimes used to express angles. A positive angle is the angle formed on the bottom 101a side of the groove portion 101, and a negative angle is the angle formed on the open portion 89 side.

[0069] Each light-shielding surface 76 of the limiting part 75 has a length L in the x-direction. Adjacent light-shielding surfaces 76 are arranged with a distance D in the y-direction (not a distance in a direction orthogonal to the light-shielding surface 76). When the angle between the extension direction of the light-shielding surface 76 and the x-direction (first direction) is set to angle α (α is an angle of 90 degrees or less), the relationship between length L and distance D is that distance D / length L > tanα. The relationship between length L and distance D is that distance D / length L > 1. More preferably, the relationship between length L and distance D is that 3 ≥ distance D / length L > 1. When distance D / length L is 3, the angle θ of the triangle determined by length L and distance D is approximately 72 degrees.

[0070] A limiting portion (second limiting portion) 78 is provided between the opening 62e and the light-receiving surface 68a of the light-receiving element 68, i.e., between the light-receiving window 66 and the light-receiving surface 68a. This limiting portion 78 is used to reduce interference light incident from directions different from the transmitted light from the light-emitting element 63 and the reflected light from the light-emitting element 64. The limiting portion 78, located on the second component 62 opposite to the first component 61, has the same structure as the limiting portion 75. The limiting portion 78 limits the light-receiving direction of the light received by the light-receiving element 68. The limiting portion 78 has a symmetrical structure with respect to a plane parallel to the yz plane and passing through the bottom 101a (or the dividing surface of the first component 61 and the second component 62). Each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 78 forms an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to the opposite side of the opening 69 in the y direction of the light-receiving surface 68a of the light-receiving element 68. For example, the angle of inclination of the light-shielding surface relative to the light-receiving surface 68a is an acute angle. The tilt angle of each light-shielding surface of the limiting part 78 is, for example, equal to the tilt angle of the optical axis 63a of the light-emitting element 63 relative to the yz plane. The light-shielding surface extends in a direction (extension direction) intersecting the y direction.

[0071] In another viewpoint, the extending direction of each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 78 is the same as the direction connecting the light-emitting element 63 and the light-receiving element 68 (the second connection direction). The extending direction of each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 78 may also form an angle of ±5 degrees or less relative to the direction connecting the light-emitting element 63 and the light-receiving element 68, preferably an angle of ±3 degrees or less. It should be noted that in... Figure 5 In the illustrations of the limiting parts 75 and 78, the direction of the shading lines is drawn in accordance with the extension direction of the light-blocking surface.

[0072] Here, we will explain the situation where the above relationship between length L and interval D does not hold. For example... Figure 6B As shown, when the ratio of spacing D to length L is 1, the restrictor 75A allows transmitted light to pass through, but makes it difficult for reflected light to pass through. The angle θA in this case is 45 degrees. In this case, angle θA equals angle α, and the relationship D / length L = tanα holds. Furthermore, as... Figure 6C As shown, when the ratio of interval D to length L is less than 1, the limiting part 75B allows transmitted light to pass through but not reflected light. In this case, the angle θB is less than 45 degrees. Therefore, it is suitable for the limiting part 75 to hold the above relationship (3 ≥ interval D / length L > 1) in the first detection module M1. Alternatively, it is suitable for the limiting part 75 to hold the above relationship (interval D / length L > tanα) in the first detection module M1. In this case, it is better to control the length L than the interval D. The above relationship is preferably satisfied by adjusting the length L.

[0073] Reference Figure 7The second retainer 56 will be described. The outer shell 56a of the second retainer 56 has a first component 81 and a second component 82, each having surfaces facing each other in the x-direction (first direction) orthogonal to the yarn's Y-direction of travel. That is, the outer shell 56a can be divided in the x-direction. The outer shell 56a is constructed by combining a pair of separate parts formed by dividing in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the second retainer 56 may be integrally formed without dividing in the left-right direction. Even in that case, the first component 81 and the second component 82 still have surfaces facing each other in the x-direction.

[0074] A counter surface 81b is formed on the front portion 81a of the first component 81. The counter surface 81b extends along the yz direction. An opening 81e, for example a rectangle, is formed on the counter surface 81b. A window portion 85, which is transparent to light (visible light) emitted from the light-emitting element 83, is fixed within the opening 81e. The aforementioned light-emitting element 83 is provided within the first component 81.

[0075] On the other hand, a counter surface 82b and a receiving space 82c are formed on the front part 82a of the second component 82. The counter surface 82b extends along the yz direction. An opening 82e, for example a rectangle, is formed on the counter surface 82b and communicates with the receiving space 82c. A light-receiving window 86, which is transparent to light (visible light) emitted from the light-emitting element 83, is fixed in the opening 82e. The aforementioned light-receiving element 88 is disposed and fixed in the receiving space 82c. The light-receiving surface 88a of the light-receiving element 88 extends, for example, parallel to the yz plane and faces the opening 82e (the light-receiving window 86 in this embodiment).

[0076] Opposing surfaces 81b and 82b are separated by a predetermined distance in the x-direction, and a travel region R2 for yarn Y is formed between opposing surfaces 81b and 82b. An opening 89 is formed within the travel region R2, opening in the y-direction (a second direction orthogonal to both the travel direction and the first direction). The opening 89 extends through the second retainer 56 in the z-direction. In other words, the opening also opens in the z-direction (travel direction).

[0077] In the second detection module M2, the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88 constitute a detection unit for detecting the thickness (state of yarn Y) of the yarn Y. The optical axis 83a of the light-emitting element 83 is, for example, parallel to the x-direction.

[0078] Between the opening 81e and the light-receiving surface 88a of the light-receiving element 88, i.e., between the light-receiving window 86 and the light-receiving surface 88a, a limiting portion 79 is provided to reduce interference light incident from a direction different from the transmitted light from the light-emitting element 83. The limiting portion 79 is provided to extend parallel to the yz plane. Except for the orientation of the light-shielding surface, the limiting portion 79 has the same structure as the limiting portion 75 of the first detection module M1. Each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 79 is, for example, parallel to the optical axis 83a of the light-emitting element 83. That is, each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 79 is orthogonal to the y-direction. Each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 79 forms a 90-degree angle with respect to the side opposite to the open portion 89 of the light-receiving surface 88a of the light-receiving element 88 in the y-direction (in this case, the angle on the open portion 89 side is also 90 degrees). Each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 79 extends in a direction intersecting the y-direction (the extension direction).

[0079] In another viewpoint, the extending direction of each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 79 is the same as the direction connecting the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88. The extending direction of each light-shielding surface of the limiting portion 79 may also form an angle of ±5 degrees or less relative to the direction connecting the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88, preferably an angle of ±3 degrees or less. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the illustration of the limiting part 79, the direction of the shading line is drawn in accordance with the extension direction of the light-blocking surface.

[0080] In the limiting part 79, for example, the relationship between length L and interval D, that interval D / length L ≤ 1 holds.

[0081] According to the yarn monitoring device 8 and spinning machine 1 of this embodiment, the light-receiving surfaces 67a, 68a, and 88a of the light-receiving elements 67, 68, and 88 face the openings 61e, 62e, and 82e formed on the first component 61 and the second component 62, and 82. Transmitted light transmitted through the yarn Y or reflected light reflected by the yarn Y is input to the light-receiving elements 67, 68, and 88 through the openings 61e, 62e, and 82e. The light input to the light-receiving elements 67, 68, and 88 reaches the light-receiving surfaces 67a, 68a, and 88a after passing through the transparent portions 77 of the limiting portions 75, 78, and 79. The limiting portions 75, 78, and 79 have multiple light-shielding surfaces 76 that form an angle of 90 degrees or less relative to the light-receiving surfaces 67a, 68a, and 88a on the opposite side of the opening portions 69, and 89. The multiple light-shielding surfaces 76 are not parallel to the light-receiving surfaces 67a, 68a, and 88a, and the acute or right angles formed between them and the light-receiving surfaces 67a, 68a, and 88a point towards the opposite side of the openings 69 and 89. Therefore, the multiple light-shielding surfaces 76 allow light to pass through the transparent portion 77 while blocking the incidence of light from a predetermined direction (e.g., light entering through the openings 69 and 89). According to the yarn monitoring device 8 equipped with limiting portions 75, 78, and 79, the effects of interference can be reduced.

[0082] In the first detection module M1 and the second detection module M2, the light-shielding surface 76 of the limiting parts 75, 78, and 79 extends in a direction intersecting the y-direction. Since the light-shielding surface 76 is not parallel to the y-direction, it can block interfering light from the y-direction. It can also block light entering through the openings 69 and 89.

[0083] In the second detection module M2, the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88 are arranged opposite each other in the x-direction, and the relationship "interval (D) / length (L) ≤ 1" holds true. The interval (D) is less than the length (L). Therefore, in this type of yarn monitoring device 8 in which the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88 are arranged opposite each other in the x-direction, interference light from the y-direction can be reliably blocked.

[0084] In the first detection module M1, the first component 61 includes a light-receiving element 67 and a light-emitting element (first light-emitting element) 63, and the second component 62 includes a light-emitting element (second light-emitting element) 64. In the limiting part 75, the relationship "interval (D) / length (L) ≥ 1" holds true. The interval (D) is equal to or greater than the length (L). Therefore, transmitted light can be detected by the light-emitting element 64, and reflected light can be detected by the light-emitting element 63. Because the above relationship holds true, the detection of reflected light by the light-emitting element 63 is not hindered. In this yarn monitoring device 8, the influence of interference can be reduced. The same function / effect is also achieved in the light-receiving element 68, the light-emitting element 64 as the first light-emitting element, the light-emitting element 63 as the second light-emitting element, and the limiting part 78.

[0085] In the first detection module M1, the relationship "interval (D) / length (L) ≤ 3" holds true. The size of the interval (D) is set to allow the detection of reflected light while blocking the incident interference light. Therefore, the noise in the detection signal is reduced, resulting in an improved signal-to-noise ratio.

[0086] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, at least one of the limiting part 75, limiting part 78, and limiting part 79 may be provided on the side of the travel region (travel region R1 or travel region R2) of the opening. At least one of the limiting part 75, limiting part 78, and limiting part 79 may also be provided inside the opening. In that case, the light-receiving window is omitted. In at least one of the limiting parts 75, limiting part 78, and limiting part 79, a component such as transparent silicone rubber may not be provided between the light-shielding surfaces. In at least one of the limiting parts 75, limiting part 78, and limiting part 79, a space, i.e., a passage portion, may be provided between the light-shielding surfaces to allow transmitted light transmitted through the yarn Y or reflected light reflected by the yarn Y to pass through.

[0087] In the first detection module M1 and the second detection module M2, at least one of the limiting part 75, limiting part 78, and limiting part 79 may be provided only on the open part side of the opening. In this case, the length of the limiting part 75, limiting part 78, and limiting part 79 in the y-direction (second direction) may be about half or less than half of the limiting parts 75, 78, and 79 in the above embodiment. That is, only... Figure 5 and Figure 7 The limiting portions shown are provided in the lower half of the regions to the left and right of the lower half, or in regions smaller than the lower half. This allows for the reduction of interfering light while preventing light attenuation from the light-emitting element, which serves as the light source.

[0088] The present invention can also be applied to a yarn monitoring device configured such that the first component includes a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element, and the light-emitting element is located on the opposite side of the open portion in the y-direction relative to the light-receiving element. In this case, the extending direction of the light-shielding surface intersects the light-emitting direction of the light-emitting element at approximately 90 degrees, for example. The extending direction of the light-shielding surface may also form an angle of 90 ± 5 degrees with respect to the light-emitting direction of the light-emitting element. Preferably, the extending direction of the light-shielding surface forms an angle of 90 ± 3 degrees with respect to the light-emitting direction of the light-emitting element. According to this structure, in a yarn monitoring device that detects reflected light instead of transmitted light, the influence of interference can be reduced. Even in this case, the relationship "1 < interval D / length L ≤ 3" holds regarding the length L in the x-direction (first direction) of each light-shielding surface and the distance D in the y-direction between two adjacent light-shielding surfaces.

[0089] The light-shielding surface of the limiting part can extend along the y-direction (second direction) and along the x-direction (first direction). That is, the light-shielding surface of the limiting part extends parallel to the xy-plane. Therefore, it is possible to block light entering through the entrance and / or exit (opening) of the yarn located in the Y-direction of yarn travel within the housing. Furthermore, the light-shielding surface of the limiting part can also extend in a direction forming an angle of 5 degrees or less with respect to the x-direction.

[0090] Regarding the length L of each light-shielding surface in the x-direction (first direction) and the interval D in the y-direction between two adjacent light-shielding surfaces, the relationship "interval D / length L ≤ 1" also holds true. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the second detection module M2 shown, the light-shielding surface can also be tilted relative to the x-direction at an angle of 5 degrees or less on the opposite side of the opening 89. More preferably, the light-shielding surface can also be tilted relative to the x-direction at an angle of 3 degrees or less on the opposite side of the opening 89.

[0091] In the limiting section, the length L in the x direction (first direction) of each light-shielding surface and / or the distance D in the y direction between two adjacent light-shielding surfaces may not be uniform. For example, the light-shielding surfaces may be arranged closely near the opening sections 69 and 89 (i.e., the distance D becomes smaller), and the light-shielding surfaces may be arranged sparsely near the bottom 101a (i.e., the distance D may also be larger).

[0092] In the first detection module M1, additional limiting portions may be provided at at least one of the following locations: within other openings facing the light-emitting element, between other openings and the light-emitting element, or on the travel area side of other openings. In this case, the additional limiting portions may also have multiple other light-shielding surfaces extending along the optical axis of the light-emitting element, and other transparent portions formed between the other light-shielding surfaces that allow light emitted from the light-emitting element to pass through. By applying additional limiting portions to the light-emitting element, it is possible to extract only nearly parallel light from the light irradiating the yarn. For example, even when using a light-emitting element that does not have sufficient directivity as the light source, the performance of the detection unit can be maintained.

[0093] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the yarn monitoring device may also include an additional limiting portion 500 that overlaps with the limiting portion 400 in an adjacent manner in the x-direction. The limiting portion 400, for example, has a plurality of parallel light-shielding surfaces 401 orthogonal to the y-direction. The additional limiting portion 500, for example, has a plurality of parallel light-shielding surfaces (additional light-shielding surfaces) 501 orthogonal to the z-direction. That is, the additional limiting portion 500 may also have a plurality of additional light-shielding surfaces and additional transparent portions (additional passage portions), wherein the additional light-shielding surfaces form angles greater than 0 degrees (preferably 45 degrees or more) and less than 90 degrees (90 degrees in this embodiment) relative to the opposite side of the open portion of the light-receiving surface in the z-direction, and the additional transparent portions are formed between the additional light-shielding surfaces, allowing transmitted light or reflected light reflected by the yarn through the traveling area to pass through. Each of the plurality of additional light-shielding surfaces forms an angle relative to each of the plurality of light-shielding surfaces. The light-shielding surfaces 401 block interference light from the y-direction, and the additional light-shielding surfaces 501 block interference light from the z-direction. According to this structure, the overlapping limiting part 400 and the additional limiting part 500 can set the direction in which light is restricted (the light-blocking direction) to be any combination of two directions. Therefore, it is possible to block interfering light from multiple directions (e.g., the y-direction and the z-direction).

[0094] Furthermore, the light-shielding surface 401 only needs to extend in a direction intersecting the y-direction. That is, the light-shielding surface 401 can also form an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the y-direction. The additional light-shielding surface 501 only needs to extend in a direction intersecting the z-direction. That is, the additional light-shielding surface 501 can also form an angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the z-direction. In addition, the limiting portion 400 and the additional limiting portion 500 do not need to be adjacent in the x-direction. A gap in the x-direction can also be provided between the limiting portion 400 and the additional limiting portion 500.

[0095] It can also replace the second cage 56 (see reference). Figure 7 And application Figure 9 The second retainer 200 is shown. A second detection module M2A can also be applied. The second retainer 200 constitutes a second detection module M2A that allows the traveling yarn Y to pass through and detects the state of the yarn Y. The function of the second detection module M2A is the same as that of the second detection module M2 described above. Inside the housing 200a of the second retainer 200, a light-emitting element 83 and a light-receiving element 88 are mounted to measure the state of the yarn Y traveling within the travel area R2. The second retainer 200 supports the light-emitting element 83 and the light-receiving element 88.

[0096] The second retainer 200 differs from the second retainer 56 in that it has a second component 82A with a protrusion 82g instead of a second component 82 that is substantially symmetrical in shape to the first component 81 and has the same size as the first component 81. A light-receiving element 88 is provided within the protrusion 82g, but the light-receiving element 88 is further away from the travel area R2 compared to the light-receiving element 88 in the second retainer 56. That is, a larger space S is provided between the opening 82e (or light-receiving window 86) and the light-receiving element 88. This space S is the largest space within the second retainer 200 (the space without anything). This arrangement of the light-receiving element 88 ensures sufficient distance from the yarn Y (yarn path) to the light-receiving surface 88a of the light-receiving element 88, reducing the influence of interfering light. Furthermore, the difference in optical path length between the transmitted light passing through yarn Y and the reflected light from yarn Y increases with the distance from yarn Y (yarn path) to the light-receiving surface 88a of the light-receiving element 88. Therefore, since the reflected light from yarn Y attenuates before reaching the light-receiving surface 88a, the transmitted light passing through yarn Y can be detected with high precision.

[0097] The aforementioned space S is part of a rectangular light-receiving space 82f formed within the second component 82A. A light-receiving element 88 is positioned within the light-receiving space 82f at a location away from the traveling region R2. In this second detection module M2A, as... Figures 10-12 As shown, a dustproof structure 300 is provided to prevent foreign objects such as flying debris from entering the space S. For example... Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the dustproof structure 300 is located on the first retainer 55 (see reference). Figure 3 and Figure 4 Between the light-receiving element 88 and the second retainer 200. In other words, the dustproof structure 300 is provided on one side of the light-receiving element 88 in the z-direction (downstream side of the yarn Y-direction of travel) and closes the upper opening of the second component 82A formed on that side.

[0098] like Figure 10 As shown, the dustproof structure 300 includes, for example, a first rubber component 310 that abuts against the light-receiving element 88; a first pressing component 320 that presses the first rubber component 310; a second rubber component 330 that presses the lower step portion 321 of the first pressing component 320; and a second pressing component 340 that presses the higher step portion 322 of the first pressing component 320.

[0099] To avoid [the problem] from the pair of pins 88e (reference) Figure 4 The first rubber component 310 includes a wide portion 311 that presses a portion of the light-receiving element 88, and a narrow portion 312 that presses the area between the pair of wires on the light-receiving element 88. (The text abruptly ends here.) Figure 12 As shown, the first pressing member 320 and the second pressing member 340 are both made of resin, for example, and are molded into a predetermined shape. The first pressing member 320 and the second pressing member 340 are housed between a pair of positioning members 82h, 82h separated along the y-direction in the second member 82A. The first pressing member 320 includes a low step portion 321 that closes the upper opening of the second member 82A and a high step portion 322 that presses the first rubber member 310.

[0100] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a layer difference portion 323 extending in the z-direction is provided between the lower step portion 321 and the higher step portion 322, and the back surface 323b of the layer difference portion 323 abuts against the wide portion 311 of the first rubber component 310. Figure 12 As shown, the low step portion 321 includes a pair of protruding edges 325, 325 embedded within a pair of grooves 82d, 82d formed along the positioning members 82h, 82h. These protruding edges 325 and grooves 82d form a labyrinth structure. This labyrinth structure and the first rubber member 310 block the path of foreign objects such as flying debris entering the space S.

[0101] A U-shaped notch corresponding to the travel area R2 when viewed from above is formed on the second rubber component 330. The second rubber component 330 includes a light-emitting side pressing part 331 that abuts against the first component 81 and a light-receiving side pressing part 332 that abuts against the second component 82A. The second rubber component 330 passes through the housing 55a of the first detection module M1 (see reference). Figure 4Pressed and fixed. The light-receiving pressing part 332, which abuts against the lower step part 321, is pressed and fixed by the second component 62 (see reference). Figure 11 ).like Figure 10 As shown, a protrusion 333 is provided on the light-receiving pressing portion 332, and a pair of protrusions 324, 324 separated along the y-direction are provided on the low step portion 321 of the first pressing member 320. The light-receiving pressing portion 332, including the protrusion 333, abuts against the upper surface 321a of the low step portion 321. The second rubber member 330 is positioned in the x-direction and y-direction by inserting the protrusion 333 of the second rubber member 330 between the pair of protrusions 324, 324.

[0102] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a pin 326 protruding downward (in the z-direction) is provided on the high step portion 322 of the first pressing member 320. The pin 326 is inserted into a hole 313 formed in the narrow portion 312 of the first rubber member 310. The first rubber member 310 is positioned in the y-direction and x-direction by the engagement of the pin 326 with respect to the hole 313. In addition, the second pressing member 340 includes a leg portion 342 that abuts against the upper surface 322a of the high step portion 322, and a pressing plate portion 341 having a pair of protruding ribs 343 extending in the y-direction.

[0103] In the dustproof structure 300, by having two separate components (rubber bushings) – a first rubber component 310 and a second rubber component 330 – and by using these components to press the light-receiving element 88 and the outer casing 200a, poor pressing is less likely to occur while also taking into account dimensional deviations. The dustproof structure 300, as a whole, functions as a cover or shield relative to the outer casing 200a, and each component is positioned relative to each other in the x, y, and z directions, further achieving the use of a labyrinth structure to prevent the intrusion of debris and other contaminants.

[0104] Reference Figure 13 The dimensions and configuration of the light-receiving element 88 within the second component 82A (within the second holder 200) will be described. The effective surface width G in the y-direction of the light-receiving surface 88a of the light-receiving element 88 can be defined due to reasons such as being partially covered by surrounding components. The effective surface width G, for example, occupies more than 80% or 90% of the total area of ​​the light-receiving surface 88a. Anyone skilled in the art can easily identify the size of the light-receiving surface 88a in the light-receiving element 88.

[0105] On the housing 200a, the distance H from the position of the yarn path in the x-direction, i.e., the distance from the center line CL (central surface) passing through the bottom 101a of the groove 101 to the light-receiving surface 88a, can be defined. The ratio of distance H to the effective surface width G can be a value in the range of 0.5 to 5.0, and more preferably, it can be a value in the range of 1.0 to 2.5.

[0106] According to the second detection module M2A described above, a distance (the aforementioned distance H) is ensured between the yarn Y, which is the object of measurement, and the light-receiving element 88, which is sufficient to attenuate the reflected signal from the yarn Y. Therefore, noise components (especially signals other than the thickness component of the yarn Y), primarily the reflected component from the yarn Y, can be eliminated from the optical yarn monitoring device 8.

[0107] It can also use including Figure 8 The limiting parts of the limiting part 400 and the additional limiting part 500 shown are used to replace the limiting part 79 of the second detection module M2A.

[0108] In the second detection module M2, additional limiting portions may be provided at at least one of the following locations: within the opening 81e formed on the first component 81 where the light-emitting element 83 is located, between the opening 81e and the light-receiving surface 88a, or on the travel region R2 side of the opening 81e. In that case, the additional limiting portions have a plurality of other light-shielding surfaces extending along the direction of the optical axis 83a of the light-emitting element 83, and other transparent portions formed between the other light-shielding surfaces that allow light emitted from the light-emitting element 83 to pass through. By applying the additional limiting portions to the light-emitting element 83, it is possible to extract only nearly parallel light from the light irradiating the yarn Y.

[0109] The above embodiment includes a first retainer 55 and a second retainer 56, but may only have one of them, or may have three or more retainers. The configuration relationship between the first retainer 55 and the second retainer 56 is not limited, and the first retainer 55 may also be configured on the upstream side relative to the second retainer 56.

[0110] In the above embodiments, the first detection module M1 and the second detection module M2 can respectively replace the foreign object detection function and the yarn thickness detection function, or, based on them, have functions such as detecting the traveling speed of yarn Y and detecting the traveling length of yarn Y. The yarn thickness detection function in the second detection module M2 includes not only optical appearance-based detection of yarn Y thickness, but also electrostatic capacitance-based quality detection. For example, the yarn monitoring device of the present invention can also be a yarn monitoring device combining an optical detection module and an electrostatic capacitance detection module. The structure of the present invention (limiting part, etc.) is applied in the optical detection module. In addition, the yarn monitoring device of the present invention can also detect whether yarn Y is located in the traveling area, and / or whether yarn Y is traveling or stationary as the state of yarn Y.

[0111] To prevent the twist of the fiber bundle F from being transmitted upstream of the air spinning device 7, the air spinning device 7 may also include a needle held by the fiber guide and arranged to protrude into the spinning chamber. Alternatively, instead of this needle, the air spinning device 7 may utilize the downstream end of the fiber guide to prevent the twist of the fiber bundle F from being transmitted upstream of the air spinning device 7. Furthermore, instead of the above structure, the air spinning device 7 may include a pair of air jet nozzles that twist the fiber bundle F in opposite directions.

[0112] In spinning unit 2, the yarn storage device 11 has the function of drawing yarn Y from the air spinning device 7, but yarn Y can also be drawn from the air spinning device 7 using a guide roller and a clamping roller. When drawing yarn Y from the air spinning device 7 using a guide roller and a clamping roller, a loose tube or a mechanical compensator that absorbs the slack of yarn Y by attracting airflow can be provided instead of the yarn storage device 11.

[0113] In the spinning machine 1, each device is arranged in the height direction of the machine so that the yarn Y supplied from the upper side is wound on the lower side. However, each device may also be arranged so that the yarn Y supplied from the lower side is wound on the upper side.

[0114] In the spinning machine 1, at least one lower roller and traverse guide of the drafting device 6 are driven by power from the second end frame 5 (i.e., the multiple spinning units 2 together). However, it is also possible to drive the individual parts of the spinning unit 2 (e.g., the drafting device 6, the air spinning device 7, and the winding device 13, etc.) independently for each spinning unit 2.

[0115] In the direction of yarn travel Y, the tension sensor 9 can also be configured upstream of the yarn monitoring device 8. The unit controller 10 can also be provided for each spinning unit 2. In the spinning unit 2, the waxing device 12, the tension sensor 9, and the yarn monitoring device 8 can also be omitted.

[0116] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows a spinning machine 1 winding a cylindrical package P, but it can also wind a conical package P. In the case of a conical package P, slack in the yarn Y occurs due to the traverse movement of the yarn Y, but this slack can be absorbed by the yarn retention device 11. The materials and shapes of each structure are not limited to those described above, but can be made of a variety of materials and shapes. The yarn winding machine of the present invention is not limited to the spinning machine 1, and may also be an automatic winding machine composed of multiple winding units. In addition, the yarn monitoring device of the present invention can also be installed in fiber machinery other than a yarn winding machine, where it is required to monitor the state of the traveling yarn.

Claims

1. A yarn monitoring device, characterized in that, have: The housing has a first component and a second component comprising surfaces facing each other in a first direction orthogonal to the direction of yarn travel, a yarn travel area being formed between the first component and the second component, and an opening portion being formed that opens toward and toward the direction of yarn travel in a second direction orthogonal to both the direction of yarn travel and the first direction. The detection unit has at least one light-emitting element and at least one light-receiving element, and detects the yarn traveling in the travel area. The at least one light-emitting element is disposed on at least one of the first component and the second component, and the at least one light-receiving element is disposed on at least one of the first component and the second component, and includes a light-receiving surface facing an opening formed on the first component and / or the second component. and The limiting portion has multiple light-shielding surfaces and passing portions. The light-shielding surfaces form angles greater than 0 and less than 90 degrees relative to the light-receiving surface on the opposite side of the open portion. The passing portions are formed between the light-shielding surfaces and allow transmitted light or reflected light from the yarn within the travel area to pass through. The limiting portion is disposed at at least at one of the following locations: inside the opening, between the opening and the light-receiving surface, and on the travel area side of the opening. The light-receiving element includes: a first light-receiving element, the first light-receiving element including a first light-receiving surface facing a first opening formed on the first component; The second light-receiving element includes a second light-receiving surface facing the second opening formed on the second component. The light-emitting element includes a first light-emitting element disposed on the first component and a second light-emitting element disposed on the second component. The limiting part includes a first limiting part disposed on the first component and a second limiting part disposed on the second component. The first limiting portion is disposed at at least one of the following locations: inside the first opening, between the first opening and the first light-receiving surface, and on the travel area side of the first opening; the second limiting portion is disposed at at least one of the following locations: inside the second opening, between the second opening and the second light-receiving surface, and on the travel area side of the second opening. The extension direction of the light-shielding surface in the first limiting part is the same as or forms an angle of less than 5 degrees with respect to the first connecting direction connecting the second light-emitting element and the first light-receiving element. The extension direction of the light-shielding surface in the second limiting part is the same as or forms an angle of less than 5 degrees with respect to the second connecting direction connecting the first light-emitting element and the second light-receiving element.

2. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface intersects the second direction and extends in a direction parallel to the direction of yarn travel.

3. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratio of the distance from the position of the yarn path to the light-receiving surface in the first direction to the effective surface width of the light-receiving surface in the second direction is a value in the range of 0.5 to 5.

0.

4. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ratio of the distance from the position of the yarn path to the light-receiving surface in the first direction to the effective surface width of the light-receiving surface in the second direction is a value in the range of 0.5 to 5.

0.

5. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ratio of the distance from the position of the yarn path to the light-receiving surface in the first direction to the effective surface width of the light-receiving surface in the second direction is a value in the range of 1.0 to 2.

5.

6. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The ratio of the distance from the position of the yarn path to the light-receiving surface in the first direction to the effective surface width of the light-receiving surface in the second direction is a value in the range of 1.0 to 2.

5.

7. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first light-emitting element is disposed on the opposite side of the open portion in the second direction, relative to the second light-receiving element. The second light-emitting element is disposed on the opposite side of the open portion in the second direction, relative to the first light-receiving element.

8. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first light-emitting element is disposed on the opposite side of the open portion in the second direction, relative to the second light-receiving element. The second light-emitting element is disposed on the opposite side of the open portion in the second direction, relative to the first light-receiving element.

9. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface has a length L in the first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces are arranged with a distance D in the second direction between them. The extension direction of the light-shielding surface forms an angle α relative to the first direction. The relationship that the interval D / length L > tanα holds true.

10. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface has a length L in the first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces are arranged with a distance D in the second direction between them. The extension direction of the light-shielding surface forms an angle α relative to the first direction. The relationship that the interval D / length L > tanα holds true.

11. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface has a length L in the first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces are arranged with a distance D in the second direction between them. The relationship that the interval D / length L > 1 holds true.

12. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface has a length L in the first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces are arranged with a distance D in the second direction between them. The relationship that the interval D / length L > 1 holds true.

13. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The relationship that the interval D / length L > 1 holds true.

14. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The relationship that the interval D / length L > 1 holds true.

15. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface has a length L in the first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces are arranged with a distance D in the second direction between them. The relationship that the interval D / the length L ≤ 3 holds true.

16. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The light-shielding surface has a length L in the first direction, and adjacent light-shielding surfaces are arranged with a distance D in the second direction between them. The relationship that the interval D / the length L ≤ 3 holds true.

17. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The relationship that the interval D / the length L ≤ 3 holds true.

18. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The relationship that the interval D / the length L ≤ 3 holds true.

19. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, It also includes an additional limiting part arranged side by side with the limiting part in the first direction. The additional limiting portion has multiple additional light-shielding surfaces and additional passing portions. The additional light-shielding surfaces are each angled at less than 90 degrees relative to the light-receiving surface on the opposite side of the open portion in the yarn's travel direction. The additional passing portions are formed between the additional light-shielding surfaces, allowing transmitted light or reflected light from the yarn within the travel area to pass through. Each of the plurality of additional light-shielding surfaces forms an angle relative to each of the plurality of light-shielding surfaces.

20. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, The limiting part is provided only on the opening side of the opening.

21. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The limiting part is provided only on the opening side of the opening.

22. The yarn monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 18 and 21, characterized in that, The first light-emitting element faces other openings formed on the first component. Other limiting portions are provided at least at one of the following locations: within the other opening, between the other opening and the first light-emitting element, and on the travel area side of the other opening. The other limiting portion has a plurality of other light-shielding surfaces extending along the optical axis of the first light-emitting element, and other passing portions formed between the other light-shielding surfaces to allow light emitted from the first light-emitting element to pass through.

23. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first light-emitting element faces other openings formed on the first component. Other limiting portions are provided at least at one of the following locations: within the other opening, between the other opening and the first light-emitting element, and on the travel area side of the other opening. The other limiting portion has a plurality of other light-shielding surfaces extending along the optical axis of the first light-emitting element, and other passing portions formed between the other light-shielding surfaces to allow light emitted from the first light-emitting element to pass through.

24. The yarn monitoring device according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first light-emitting element faces other openings formed on the first component. Other limiting portions are provided at least at one of the following locations: within the other opening, between the other opening and the first light-emitting element, and on the travel area side of the other opening. The other limiting portion has a plurality of other light-shielding surfaces extending along the optical axis of the first light-emitting element, and other passing portions formed between the other light-shielding surfaces to allow light emitted from the first light-emitting element to pass through.

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