Yarn take-up device and yarn take-up method

Abstract

A yarn winding machine and a yarn winding method are provided. The yarn winding machine includes a plurality of winding units that perform a winding operation to form a package, an automatic machine that is configured to be movable relative to the plurality of winding units, and a unit determination section that determines a winding unit to which an empty bobbin is attached. The automatic machine performs a start winding process that starts winding of a yarn on the empty bobbin that has been attached to the winding unit determined by the unit determination section. After the start winding process, the winding operation is performed in the winding unit immediately after the start winding process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to a yarn winding machine and a yarn winding method. Background Technology

[0002] As a technology related to yarn take-up machines, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-179985 discloses a spinning machine that includes multiple spinning units (take-up units) that perform a take-up action to form a package by winding yarn onto a bobbin, and a doffing trolley (automatic machine) that is movable relative to the multiple spinning units. In the spinning machine disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-179985, when a package is formed in a certain spinning unit, the doffing trolley discharges the package from the spinning unit and supplies an empty bobbin to the spinning unit to perform the initial winding process of winding yarn onto the empty bobbin. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the aforementioned winding unit, the automatic machine has a hopper containing multiple empty bobbins, from which empty bobbins are supplied to the winding unit. Such an automatic machine, for example, moves to a bobbin storage device or similar facility to replenish empty bobbins when the hopper runs out of stock. Therefore, since replenishing empty bobbins to the automatic machine takes time, the processing capacity may decrease.

[0004] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide a yarn take-up machine and a yarn take-up method that can avoid a reduction in processing capacity.

[0005] The yarn winding machine of one side of the present invention includes: a plurality of winding units that perform a winding operation to wind yarn onto a bobbin to form a package; an automatic machine configured to move relative to the plurality of winding units; and a unit determining unit that determines a winding unit on which an empty bobbin is mounted, and performs a start winding process on the empty bobbin by the automatic machine to begin winding yarn onto the empty bobbin, wherein the empty bobbin has been mounted on the winding unit determined by the unit determining unit, and after the start winding process, a winding operation is performed in the winding unit in such a manner that the start winding process immediately follows.

[0006] In this yarn take-up machine, for example, the take-up unit with an empty bobbin installed by the user can be determined by the unit determination unit, and the automatic machine performs the start-up winding process on the empty bobbin already installed in the take-up unit. This reduces the frequency of the automatic machine itself re-preparing the empty bobbin. Furthermore, the take-up operation is performed immediately after the start-up winding process, thus reducing unnecessary standby time. Therefore, according to one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, a reduction in processing capacity can be avoided.

[0007] In one aspect of the yarn winding machine of the present invention, the unit determination unit may include an operation unit capable of determining a winding unit with an empty bobbin already installed. When the operation unit is operated, an automatic machine initiates the winding process on the empty bobbin already installed on the winding unit determined by the operation. In this case, for example, the winding unit with the empty bobbin can be determined by the user's operation via the operation unit.

[0008] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the operation unit may be provided in at least one of the plurality of take-up units, the automatic machine, and the end frame. In this case, the operation unit can be operated in at least one of the plurality of take-up units, the automatic machine, and the end frame.

[0009] In one aspect of the yarn winding machine of the present invention, the unit determining unit may include a plurality of operation buttons, each corresponding to a plurality of winding units. When at least one of the plurality of operation buttons is operated, an automatic machine initiates the winding process on an empty bobbin already installed in the winding unit corresponding to the operated operation button. In this case, the operation button and the winding unit determined by the operation are in a one-to-one relationship. Since they are clearly associated, the winding unit with the empty bobbin can be accurately determined, for example, by using the user's operation via the operation button.

[0010] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the take-up unit may have a bobbin support to which the bobbin is rotatably mounted. The start-up winding process includes a first process of releasing the empty bobbin from the bobbin support already mounted on the take-up unit. In this case, by releasing the empty bobbin from the bobbin support during the start-up winding process, working space can be ensured, for example, between the bobbin support and the empty bobbin.

[0011] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the automatic machine may have a holding device for holding and moving the empty bobbin, and the start-up winding process includes a second process. After the first process, the empty bobbin, whose attachment to the take-up unit has been released, is moved to a predetermined position by the holding device. In this case, during the start-up winding process, the empty bobbin, whose attachment to the take-up unit has been released, can be moved to a predetermined position, and appropriate operations can be performed on the empty bobbin.

[0012] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the automatic machine may have a yarn capture and guide device for capturing and guiding the yarn, and the start-winding process may include a third process in which the yarn is captured by the yarn capture and guide device. In this case, during the start-winding process, the yarn can be captured by the yarn capture and guide device, and the yarn can be fixed relative to the empty bobbin.

[0013] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, at least two of the first, second, and third processes can be performed in parallel. In this case, the time required to start the winding process can be reduced.

[0014] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the initial winding process may include: a fourth process, after the second and third processes, moving the yarn-capturing guide device that has captured the yarn to a standby position; a fifth process, after the fourth process, moving the empty bobbin that has moved to a predetermined position to a bobbin holder by a holding device; and a sixth process, after the fifth process, mounting the empty bobbin on the bobbin holder. In this case, during the initial winding process, by moving the yarn-capturing guide device that has captured the yarn to the standby position and returning the empty bobbin that has moved to the predetermined position to the bobbin holder, the positional relationship between the bobbin holder and the empty bobbin and the yarn can be determined.

[0015] In one aspect of the yarn winding machine of the present invention, when a plurality of winding units with empty bobbins already installed are determined by the unit determination unit, the automatic machine sequentially performs a winding start process on each of the empty bobbins already installed on the plurality of winding units. In this case, with multiple winding units having empty bobbins installed, the automatic machine can efficiently perform the winding start process.

[0016] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, multiple take-up units may each have a traverse guide for traversing the yarn and a traverse drive unit that independently drives the traverse guide. In this case, the traverse guide can be driven for each take-up unit, thus enabling the take-up operation to begin immediately after a portion of the winding process is performed using the traverse guide.

[0017] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, multiple take-up units may each have a take-up roller that rotates the bobbin or the package, and a bobbin drive unit that independently drives the take-up roller. In this case, the take-up roller can be driven for each take-up unit, and therefore, the take-up operation can be performed using the take-up roller immediately after a portion of the initial winding process is performed by the take-up roller.

[0018] In one aspect of the yarn winding machine of the present invention, the unit determination unit may include a first information acquisition unit that acquires first information related to the color of the area including the bobbin mounted on the winding unit, and determines a winding unit with an empty bobbin mounted based on the acquired first information. In this case, the winding unit with an empty bobbin mounted can be determined using the color of the area including the bobbin mounted on the winding unit. This prevents the automatic machine from erroneously initiating the winding process on the package.

[0019] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the unit determination unit may include a second information acquisition unit that acquires second information related to the yarn layer thickness of the yarn wound on the bobbin mounted on the take-up unit, and determines a take-up unit with an empty bobbin mounted based on the acquired second information. In this case, the take-up unit with an empty bobbin mounted can be determined using the yarn layer thickness of the yarn wound on the bobbin mounted on the take-up unit. This prevents the automatic machine from erroneously initiating the winding process on the package.

[0020] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, multiple take-up units may each have a take-up roller that contacts the outer peripheral surface of a bobbin or package mounted on the take-up unit, causing the bobbin or package to rotate. The unit determination unit includes a third information acquisition unit that acquires third information related to the rotational speed (rotational speed per unit time) of the bobbin or package, and determines take-up units with empty bobbins installed based on the acquired third information. In this case, take-up units with empty bobbins installed can be determined using the rotational speed of the bobbin or package. This avoids the automatic machine from erroneously starting the winding process of the package. Furthermore, since yarn take-up machines often have a third information acquisition unit for performing the take-up operation, it is not necessary to install additional sensors in the yarn take-up machine to determine take-up units with empty bobbins installed, thus simplifying the configuration of the yarn take-up machine.

[0021] In one aspect of the yarn winding machine of the present invention, the automatic machine may have a winding magazine that accommodates multiple empty bobbins. For winding units not determined by the unit determination unit, a bobbin setting process is performed to supply empty bobbins from the magazine and begin winding yarn. For winding units determined by the unit determination unit, the bobbin setting process is not performed. In this case, for winding units other than those with empty bobbins already installed, empty bobbins can be supplied from the magazine and yarn winding can begin through the bobbin setting process of the automatic machine.

[0022] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, it is also possible for an automatic machine to not accept the supply of empty bobbins from a bobbin storage container storing multiple empty bobbins to the silo during a predetermined period from the issuance of a request related to the start of winding processing for empty bobbins already installed in the take-up unit determined by the unit determination unit until the start of winding processing is carried out. During the predetermined period, the automatic machine can use the empty bobbins already installed in the take-up unit, therefore, empty bobbins can be left unstored in the silo, and there is no need to replenish the silo with empty bobbins. Therefore, in this case, the time required for replenishment can be eliminated during the predetermined period, and a reduction in processing capacity can be avoided.

[0023] In one aspect of the yarn winding machine of the present invention, the automatic machine may move to the bobbin storage unit and receive the supply of empty bobbins from the bobbin storage unit to the yarn feeder during a period other than a predetermined period, provided that the empty bobbin supply start condition is met. In this case, empty bobbins can be appropriately replenished to the yarn feeder during a period other than the predetermined period. Furthermore, since the automatic machine does not move to the bobbin storage unit during the predetermined period, the movement efficiency of the automatic machine can be improved.

[0024] In one aspect of the yarn take-up machine of the present invention, the automatic machine may not perform a discharge process to remove the already installed bobbins or packages from the take-up unit determined by the unit determination unit. In this case, it is possible to prevent empty bobbins already installed in the take-up unit determined by the unit determination unit from being discharged from the take-up unit through the discharge process. Furthermore, the user can perform the discharge of packages and the installation of empty bobbins relative to the take-up unit, thereby reducing the load on the automatic machine.

[0025] One aspect of the yarn winding method of the present invention uses a yarn winding machine, which includes: a plurality of winding units for performing a winding operation to wind yarn onto a bobbin to form a package; and an automatic machine configured to move relative to the plurality of winding units. The yarn winding method includes: a step of determining a winding unit; a step of performing a start winding process by using the automatic machine to start winding yarn onto an empty bobbin that has been installed in the determined winding unit; and a step of performing a winding operation in the winding unit immediately after the start winding process.

[0026] In this yarn take-up method, for example, when the user installs an empty bobbin into the take-up unit, the take-up unit can be identified, and the automatic machine can begin winding the empty bobbin already installed in the take-up unit. This reduces the frequency with which the automatic machine needs to re-prepare the empty bobbin. Furthermore, since the take-up action is performed immediately after the start-up winding process, unnecessary standby time can be reduced. Thus, according to one aspect of the yarn take-up method of the present invention, a reduction in processing capacity can be avoided.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, a yarn take-up machine and a yarn take-up method that can avoid a reduction in processing capacity can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a front view of a spinning machine according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The side view of the spinning unit and the doffing trolley shown.

[0030] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the functional structure of a spinning machine.

[0031] Figure 4 Yes Figure 1 The side view illustrates the discharge process performed by the doffing trolley shown.

[0032] Figure 5 Yes Figure 4 The side view shown illustrates the subsequent discharge process.

[0033] Figure 6 Yes Figure 1 The side view illustrates the bobbin setting process performed by the doffing trolley.

[0034] Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 The side view shown is for subsequent explanation of the bobbin arrangement process.

[0035] Figure 8 Yes Figure 7 The side view shown is for subsequent explanation of the bobbin arrangement process.

[0036] Figure 9 Yes Figure 8 The side view shown is for subsequent explanation of the bobbin arrangement process.

[0037] Figure 10 Yes Figure 1 The side view illustrates the initial winding process performed by the doffing trolley.

[0038] Figure 11 Yes Figure 10 The side view shown illustrates the subsequent process of starting the winding process.

[0039] Figure 12 Yes Figure 11 The side view shown illustrates the subsequent process after the start of the winding procedure.

[0040] Figure 13 Yes Figure 12 The side view shown illustrates the subsequent process of starting the winding process.

[0041] Figure 14 Yes Figure 13 The side view shown illustrates the subsequent process after the start of the winding procedure.

[0042] Figure 15 Yes Figure 14 The side view shown illustrates the subsequent process after the start of the winding procedure. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, identical or equivalent parts are labeled with the same symbols in each drawing, and repeated descriptions are omitted. The scale of the drawings may not be consistent with the description. Additionally, the terms used in the description to indicate directions such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "front," and "back" are convenient terms based on the states shown in the illustrations.

[0044] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the spinning machine (yarn take-up machine) 1 includes multiple spinning units (take-up units) 2, a splicing trolley 3, a doffing trolley (automatic machine) 4, a first end frame 5A, a second end frame 5B, a bobbin storage device 60, and a package conveyor 80. The multiple spinning units 2 are aligned in one direction ( Figure 1 The yarns are arranged in the left-right direction and the length direction of the spinning machine 1. Each spinning unit 2 generates yarn Y, and performs a winding action to wind the yarn Y onto the bobbin B to form a package P.

[0045] The first end frame 5A houses a collection device for recovering fiber scraps and yarn scraps generated in the spinning unit 2. The first end frame 5A is located at one end of the arrangement direction of the multiple spinning units 2. The second end frame 5B houses an air supply unit that adjusts the air pressure of the compressed air supplied to the spinning machine 1 and supplies air to each part of the spinning machine 1. The second end frame 5B may also house a drive motor or similar device for supplying power to each part of the spinning unit 2. The second end frame 5B is located at the other end of the arrangement direction of the multiple spinning units 2.

[0046] The second end frame 5B houses the machine control device 5C, the display screen 5D, and the input keys 5E. The machine control device 5C centrally manages and controls all parts of the spinning machine 1. The display screen 5D can display information related to the settings of the spinning unit 2. The operator uses the input keys 5E to perform appropriate operations, thereby enabling the setting of the spinning unit 2.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, each spinning unit 2, in the direction of yarn travel Y, sequentially includes, from the upstream side, a drafting device 6, an air-jet spinning device 7, a yarn monitoring device 8, a tension sensor 9, a yarn storage device 11, a waxing device 12, and a take-up device 13. The unit controller 10 is configured for a predetermined number (one or more) of spinning units 2 and controls the operation of the spinning units 2.

[0048] The drafting device 6 drafts the yarn S. The air-jet spinning device 7 uses a swirling airflow to twist the fiber bundle F generated by the drafting device 6 through the yarn S to generate yarn Y. The yarn storage device 11 stores the yarn Y between the air-jet spinning device 7 and the take-up device 13 to eliminate slack in the yarn Y. The waxing device 12 waxes the yarn Y between the yarn storage device 11 and the take-up device 13. The take-up device 13 takes the yarn Y into a bobbin B to form a package P. In the following description, the empty bobbin B without the yarn Y being wound is sometimes referred to as "empty bobbin B0". In this embodiment, the empty bobbin B0 is configured as a cylindrical body. When viewed from the front, the empty bobbin B0 is formed as an end-expanding shape that extends axially from one end to the other.

[0049] A yarn monitoring device 8 is located between the air-jet spinning device 7 and the yarn storage device 11. It monitors the information of the traveling yarn Y and detects 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. A tension sensor 9 is located between the air-jet spinning device 7 and the yarn storage device 11. It measures the tension of the traveling yarn Y and sends a tension measurement signal to the unit controller 10. If the unit controller 10 determines that there is an abnormality based on the detection results of at least one of the yarn monitoring device 8 and the tension sensor 9, the yarn Y is cut in the spinning unit 2.

[0050] The take-up device 13 includes a rocker arm 21, a bobbin support 28, a take-up roller 22, and a traverse guide 23. The rocker arm 21, supported by a pivot 24, is oscillating, causing the surface (outer circumferential surface) of the bobbin B or the surface of the package P to contact the surface of the take-up roller 22 with appropriate pressure. The bobbin support 28, located on the rocker arm 21, holds both ends of the bobbin B. The bobbin B is rotatably mounted on the bobbin support 28. The take-up roller 22 contacts the surface of the bobbin B or the package P mounted on the bobbin support 28, causing the bobbin B or package P to rotate. The traverse guide 23 causes the yarn Y to traverse relative to the rotating bobbin B or package P.

[0051] Spinning unit 2 outputs a request signal when package P becomes fully wound. Spinning unit 2 determines that package P is fully wound and outputs a request signal when a specified amount (specified length) of yarn Y is wound onto bobbin B. Alternatively, spinning unit 2 may output a request signal before a specified time has elapsed before package P becomes fully wound.

[0052] When yarn Y is cut or breaks in a spinning unit 2 for some reason, the splicing carriage 3 performs a splicing operation on that spinning unit 2. The splicing carriage 3 travels on a travel path R1. The travel path R1 extends along the arrangement direction of the multiple spinning units 2. The splicing carriage 3 includes a suction tube 31, a splicing device 32, and a suction nozzle 33. The suction tube 31 is supported to rotate, captures yarn Y from the air-jet spinning device 7, and guides it to the splicing device 32. The suction nozzle 33 is supported to rotate, captures yarn Y from the take-up device 13, and guides it to the splicing device 32. The splicing device 32 splices the guided yarns Y together. The splicing device 32 may be a splicer using compressed air, a warp attacher that passes yarn Y from the package P through the air-jet spinning device 7, or a knotter that mechanically connects the yarns Y, etc.

[0053] The doffing trolley 4 is a work trolley configured to move relative to multiple spinning units 2. The doffing trolley 4 performs the following processes: discharge processing, in which bobbins B or packages P installed in the spinning unit 2 are discharged from the spinning unit 2; bobbin setting processing, in which empty bobbins B0 are supplied from the hopper 41 (described later) to spinning units 2 without empty bobbins B0 (spinning units 2 with empty bobbin supports 28); and starting winding processing, in which yarn Y is started being wound onto the installed empty bobbins B0 (details described later).

[0054] For example, when the yarn doffing trolley 4 becomes fully loaded with P in a spinning unit 2, it travels along the travel path R2 to a spinning unit 2 and stops, according to a control signal from the machine control device 5C, to perform discharge processing and bobbin setting processing. The travel path R2 extends along the arrangement direction of the multiple spinning units 2 (parallel to the travel path R1). A supply position SP is provided on the front side of the bobbin storage tank 60, where the yarn doffing trolley 4 receives the bobbin B from the bobbin storage tank 60. The yarn doffing trolley 4 can travel along the travel path R2 and stop at the supply position SP. After receiving the bobbin B at the supply position SP, the yarn doffing trolley 4 moves to the spinning unit 2 that requested the bobbin B.

[0055] The doffing trolley 4 includes a frame 40, a yarn hopper 41, a bobbin mounting mechanism (holding device) 42, a cradle operating arm 43, a suction tube (yarn capture and guiding device) 44, and a control unit 46. The yarn hopper 41, bobbin mounting mechanism 42, cradle operating arm 43, suction tube 44, and control unit 46 are housed in the frame 40.

[0056] The hopper 41 stores bobbins B supplied from the bobbin storage tank 60. The hopper 41 stores multiple bobbins B. A supply mechanism 47 is provided at the lower end of the hopper 41 to supply empty bobbins B0 to the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. The supply mechanism 47 is configured to include a gate and a cylinder, etc. The supply mechanism 47 supplies empty bobbins B0 to the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 one by one. The operation of the supply mechanism 47 is controlled by a control unit 46.

[0057] The bobbin mounting mechanism 42 is a device for holding and moving the empty bobbin B0. The bobbin mounting mechanism 42 is configured to swing about a pivot axis 111 and to hold the empty bobbin B0 via the bobbin holding part 52. The bobbin mounting mechanism 42 can move the empty bobbin B0 from the supply mechanism 47 to a position between the bobbin supports 28. After moving the empty bobbin B0 to the bobbin supports 28, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 returns to its original position. The bobbin mounting mechanism 42 can move the empty bobbin B0 from the position between the bobbin supports 28 to a predetermined position (e.g., the original position of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42).

[0058] Furthermore, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 includes a bobbin winding roller 53 for winding the yarn. Alternatively, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 may not include the bobbin winding roller 53, and the empty bobbin B0 may be rotated during the winding of the yarn via the take-up roller 22 of the spinning unit 2. Yarn winding refers to the process of winding a strip of yarn around the empty bobbin B on the outer side of the winding width of the package P, so that it can be pulled out from the package P after the initial winding of the yarn Y is completed. When the yarn winding is formed by the take-up device 13 of the spinning unit 2, the empty bobbin B0 is rotated via the take-up roller 22 with the traverse guide 23 positioned outside the winding width of the package P and inward from the end face of the empty bobbin B0. The rotation speed of the take-up roller 22 can be the same as the rotation speed during the winding of the package P, or it can be a low speed.

[0059] Cradle operating arm 43 is the arm that operates cradle arm 21. Cradle operating arm 43 operates cradle arm 21 to remove the packaged P or empty bobbin B0 from the take-up device 13, opening bobbin support 28 (causing one bobbin support 28 to move away from the other). Cradle operating arm 43 operates cradle arm 21 to install empty bobbin B0 between bobbin supports 28, closing bobbin supports 28 (causing one bobbin support 28 to approach the other). Suction tube 44 is a device for capturing and guiding yarn Y. Suction tube 44 captures yarn Y delivered from the air-jet spinning device 7 by suction from the suction unit, guiding the captured yarn Y to the position where the winding process is to begin.

[0060] In addition, the doffing trolley 4 is equipped with a guiding device 61, which guides the roll P from the cradle arm 21 to the roll conveyor 80 while in contact with the roll P (see reference). Figure 4 The guide device 61 includes a plate-shaped contact member 69 that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the roll P (see reference). Figure 4 ).

[0061] The bobbin storage container 60 is located at one end of one of the arrangement directions of the plurality of spinning units 2 (the end where the first end frame 5A is located). At the supply position SP, bobbins B are supplied from the bobbin storage container 60 to the doffing trolley 4. The bobbin storage container 60 holds a plurality of empty bobbins B0 and removes a portion of the held empty bobbins B0, which is then supplied to the doffing trolley 4 via the delivery mechanism 70. When the doffing trolley 4 reaches the supply position SP of the bobbin storage container 60, the delivery mechanism 70 supplies bobbins B to the doffing trolley 4.

[0062] The package conveyor 80 is a conveying device that transports packages P discharged from spinning unit 2 via a doffing trolley 4. The package conveyor 80 is positioned between spinning unit 2 and the doffing trolley 4. Alternatively, a passageway for packages P can be provided in the doffing trolley 4, and a travel path R2 for the doffing trolley 4 can be provided between spinning unit 2 and package conveyor 80. The package conveyor 80 extends along the arrangement direction of the multiple spinning units 2. The conveying direction of the package P transported by the package conveyor 80 intersects (or is orthogonal to) the discharge direction of the package P discharged from spinning unit 2. The package conveyor 80 drives a conveyor belt of an annular belt via a drive roller (not shown).

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the spinning machine 1 of this embodiment includes multiple operation buttons 27, each corresponding to a plurality of spinning units 2. One operation button 27 is provided in each spinning unit 2. The operation button 27 is an operation unit capable of confirming that a spinning unit 2 with an empty bobbin B0 has been installed. The operation button 27 constitutes a unit confirmation unit for confirming that a spinning unit 2 with an empty bobbin B0 has been installed. The operation button 27 can be, for example, a touch-type button on a touch panel, or a physical button that can be mechanically pressed. For example, by pressing the operation button 27, a signal is output to the machine control device 5C confirming that an empty bobbin B0 has been installed in the corresponding spinning unit 2. Multiple operation buttons 27 may also be provided in each spinning unit 2. The position, size, number, and range of the operation buttons 27 provided in the spinning unit 2 are not particularly limited.

[0064] Multiple spinning units 2 each have an independently driven traverse yarn guide 23 (see reference). Figure 2 The traverse drive unit 25 of the spinning unit 2. Each of the multiple spinning units 2 has an independently driven take-up roller 22 (see reference). Figure 2 ) the tube drive section 29.

[0065] When operation button 27 is activated, the machine control device 5C sends a request to the doffing carriage 4 to begin the winding process on the empty bobbin B0 that has been installed in the spinning unit 2 (in other words, the spinning unit 2 corresponding to the activated operation button 27). The doffing carriage 4 accepts the request to begin the winding process, moves to the spinning unit 2 determined by operation button 27, and begins the winding process. Immediately after the winding process begins, the machine control device 5C performs a take-up operation in the spinning unit 2.

[0066] The initiation of the winding process includes a first process of releasing the empty bobbin B0, which has been installed between the bobbin supports 28 of the spinning unit 2, from its installation. The initiation of the winding process includes a second process, after the first process, in which the empty bobbin B0, whose installation relative to the spinning unit 2 has been released, is moved to a predetermined position by the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. The initiation of the winding process includes a third process, after the first process, in which the yarn Y is captured by the suction tube 44. The first, second, and third processes are performed in parallel. "Performed in parallel" means that at least a portion of the actions in the first process, at least a portion of the actions in the second process, and at least a portion of the actions in the third process are performed concurrently (simultaneously). Alternatively, the first and second processes may be performed first, and the third process may be performed after the first and second processes are completed. The winding process includes: a fourth process, after the second and third processes, moving the suction tube 44, which has captured the yarn Y, to a standby position; a fifth process, after the fourth process, moving the empty bobbin B0, which has been moved to a predetermined position, to a position between the bobbin supports 28 via the bobbin mounting mechanism 42; and a sixth process, after the fifth process, installing the empty bobbin B0 between the bobbin supports 28. The predetermined position here is the position where the supply mechanism 47 of the wicking magazine 41 supplies the empty bobbin B0 to the bobbin holding part 52 (the origin position of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42).

[0067] When the machine control device 5C has identified multiple spinning units 2 with installed empty bobbins B0 via operation button 27, it sequentially initiates the winding process on the empty bobbins B0 installed on each of the multiple spinning units 2 via the doffing carriage 4. Specifically, when the multiple spinning units 2 are arranged in a specific position, the doffing carriage 4 initiates the winding process sequentially from the spinning unit 2 closest to its current position.

[0068] In spinning unit 2, which is not selected by operation button 27, no empty bobbin B0 is installed. That is, either a full package P is installed in the take-up device 13 of this spinning unit 2, or nothing is installed. Therefore, after discharging the package P with a full package P installed relative to this spinning unit 2, the machine control device 5C performs bobbin setting processing via the doffing carriage 4. The machine control device 5C does not cause the doffing carriage 4 to perform bobbin setting processing for the spinning unit 2 selected by operation button 27 (prohibits bobbin setting processing).

[0069] Furthermore, the machine control device 5C performs the following actions by controlling the doffing carriage 4. Specifically, during a predetermined period from the issuance of a request (hereinafter also referred to as a "start winding request") related to the commencement of winding processing on the empty bobbin B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2 determined by operation button 27, to the commencement of that winding process, the doffing carriage 4 does not accept material from the bobbin reservoir 60 (see reference 5C). Figure 1 The doffing carriage 4 supplies empty bobbins B0 to the spinning chamber 41. That is, during the specified period, the doffing carriage 4 does not move to the supply position SP of the bobbin storage container 60. During periods other than the specified period (other than the specified period), if the empty bobbin supply start condition is met, the doffing carriage 4 moves to the bobbin storage container 60 to receive the supply of empty bobbins B0 from the bobbin storage container 60 to the spinning chamber 41. Before performing the start winding process on the spinning unit 2 not determined by the operation button 27, the doffing carriage 4 performs a discharge process to discharge the already installed bobbins B or packages P from the spinning unit 2. The doffing carriage 4 does not perform the discharge process on the spinning unit 2 determined by the operation button 27 (discharge process is prohibited).

[0070] Next, an example of a doffing operation will be described, in which the package P, which has been installed in the spinning unit 2, is removed from the spinning unit 2.

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, for example, in spinning unit 2 where operation button 27 is not activated, when a fully wound package P is detected by a sensor (not shown), the doffing carriage 4 is moved to that spinning unit 2. The full winding of package P can also be determined, for example, based on the detection by yarn monitoring device 8 of a specified length of yarn Y being wound onto package P. The unit controller 10 controls the rotation of package P by rotating the cradle arm 21, causing package P to disengage from the take-up roller 22 and cutting off the rotational driving force to package P. Alternatively, when package P becomes fully wound, the unit controller 10 can also stop the rotation of package P by stopping the rotation of the take-up roller 22. In this case, the action of disengaging package P from the take-up roller 22 can be omitted. Afterwards, the doffing carriage 4 performs the following discharge process.

[0072] That is, by means of the guide cylinder 62 of the extension guide device 61, the contact member 69 is rotated upward to contact the roll P. Thus, even when the roll P is inertially rotating, its inertial rotation can be initiated. Furthermore, before the inertial rotation of the roll P completely stops, the cradle operating arm 43 is moved to... Figure 4 The position shown. When the inertial rotation of the roll P completely stops, the doffing trolley 4 operates the cradle arm 21 via the cradle operating arm 43 to disengage one bobbin support 28 from the other bobbin support 28, thereby unloading the fully rolled roll P.

[0073] The unloaded fully wound roll P is guided towards the inclined section 81 while its weight is supported by the contact member 69 of the guide device 61. Then, the guide device 61 maintains contact with the roll P and rolls the roll P along the inclined section 81. Meanwhile, the roller member 67 of the guide device 61 rolls on the inclined section 81. Afterwards, as... Figure 5 As shown, the package P is guided to the package conveyor 80. The spinning machine 1 may also be configured without the guide device 61, in which the package P unloaded from the cradle arm 21 rolls on the inclined section 81 to reach the package conveyor 80.

[0074] Next, an example of the bobbin setting process for supplying empty bobbins B0 to spinning unit 2 from spinning chamber 41 and starting to wind yarn Y will be described.

[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, for example, in spinning unit 2 where operation button 27 is not operated, for example, when package P is discharged through discharge processing and no empty bobbin B0 is installed between bobbin supports 28, the doffing carriage 4 performs the following bobbin setting process. That is, firstly, the suction tube 44 is extended upward. The suction tube 44 captures the yarn end of the yarn Y discharged from the airflow spinning device 7 by suction.

[0076] like Figure 7 As shown, while the yarn Y is being captured by suction, the suction tube 44 is moved downwards. At this time, the unit controller 10 controls the movement to cause the yarn Y attracted by the suction tube 44 to wind around the yarn storage device 11. The suction force of the suction tube 44 is relatively small and does not overcome the resistance torque of the yarn storage device 11; therefore, the yarn Y is stored in the yarn storage device 11. After the suction tube 44 is moved downwards, it remains in a standby position. As a result, the yarn Y is guided between the tip of the suction tube 44 and the yarn storage device 11 to form a predetermined yarn path.

[0077] Before or after the movement of the straw 44, the cradle arm 21 is operated by the cradle operating arm 43 to move one bobbin support 28 away from the other bobbin support 28. The empty bobbin B0 stored in the magazine 41 is fed to the supply mechanism 47, and the empty bobbin B0 is held by the bobbin holding part 52 of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 at the position of the supply mechanism 47 (the origin position of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42).

[0078] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 enters from the doffing trolley 4 side and supplies empty bobbins B0 to the bobbin support 28. That is, empty bobbins B0 and yarn Y are simultaneously supplied to the position between a pair of bobbin supports 28. In this state, yarn Y is arranged across the axial end of the empty bobbin B0. Therefore, in this state, the cradle arm 21 is operated by the cradle operating arm 43 to bring one bobbin support 28 closer to the other bobbin support 28, thereby installing the empty bobbin B0 on ​​the bobbin support 28 and clamping and fixing the yarn Y between the end of the empty bobbin B0 and the bobbin support 28.

[0079] Then, the yarn Y is cut between the empty bobbin B0 and the suction tube 44 by the cutter (not shown) provided in the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. The bobbin holding part 52 releases its grip on the empty bobbin B0. The yarn winding roller 53 is brought into contact with the empty bobbin B0, and the empty bobbin B0 is rotated by the yarn winding roller 53. As a result, a yarn winding is formed near the axial end of the empty bobbin B0. Afterward, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 retracts towards the doffing carriage 4, completing the bobbin setting process. At the same time as the bobbin setting process is completed, the unit controller 10 rotates the cradle arm 21 so that the empty bobbin B0 comes into contact with the take-up roller 22. As a result, a take-up tension is applied to the yarn Y, and the yarn Y is gradually unwound from the yarn storage device 11. The take-up operation of the package P begins immediately in the spinning unit 2 without interruption after the bobbin setting process is completed.

[0080] Next, an example of the operation in which yarn Y is wound in an empty bobbin B0 that has already been installed in spinning unit 2 will be described.

[0081] like Figure 10 As shown, in a certain spinning unit 2, after the user installs the empty bobbin B0, the user operates the operation button 27 of the spinning unit 2. This sends a start-winding request from the machine control device 5C to the doffing carriage 4 to begin the winding process of the empty bobbin B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2. Upon receiving the start-winding request, the doffing carriage 4 moves to the spinning unit 2 and performs the following start-winding process on the empty bobbin B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2.

[0082] That is, such as Figure 11As shown, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 enters from the doffing trolley 4 side, and the bobbin holding part 52 of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 holds the empty bobbin B0 that has been installed in the spinning unit 2. Then, the rocker arm 21 is operated by the rocker arm operating arm 43, so that one bobbin support 28 is separated from the other bobbin support 28, and the installation of the empty bobbin B0 that has been installed between the bobbin supports 28 is released (first process).

[0083] Immediately afterwards, such as Figure 12 As shown, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 is oscillated around the swing shaft 111, moving the empty bobbin B0 to a predetermined position (the position of the supply mechanism 47 (the origin position of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42)) (second process). At the same time, or before or after this, the suction tube 44 is extended upward, and the yarn end of the yarn Y discharged from the air-flow spinning device 7 is captured by suction through the suction tube 44 (third process).

[0084] Immediately afterwards, such as Figure 13 As shown, while the yarn Y is being captured by suction, the suction tube 44 is moved downwards. Since the yarn storage device 11 is positioned along the movement path of the suction tube 44, the yarn Y attracted by the suction tube 44 begins to wind around the yarn storage device 11 as the suction tube 44 moves downwards. The suction force of the suction tube 44 is relatively small and does not overcome the resistance torque of the yarn storage device 11; therefore, the yarn Y accumulates on the yarn storage device 11. Alternatively, after the yarn Y begins to accumulate in the yarn storage device 11, a discarding action can be performed on the yarn Y. Specifically, the yarn Y is removed from the yarn hanging member, which is provided relative to the yarn storage roller of the yarn storage device 11, by means of a yarn removal lever (not shown), causing the yarn Y to tighten, and the suction tube 44 draws in the discarded, loosely tightened yarn Y. Next, the yarn removal lever is moved to hook the yarn Y back onto the yarn holding component, thereby accumulating a stable quality yarn Y on the yarn storage device 11. Then, after the suction tube 44 is moved downwards, it remains in the standby position (fourth process). As a result, the yarn Y is guided between the tip of the suction tube 44 and the yarn storage device 11 to form a predetermined yarn path.

[0085] Immediately afterwards, at the position of the supply mechanism 47, the empty bobbin B0 is again held by the bobbin holding part 52 of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. In the case where the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 moves the empty bobbin B0 to another position instead of the supply mechanism 47, the bobbin holding part 52 can continue to hold the empty bobbin B0 during a series of operations (the re-holding action can also be omitted). Figure 14 as well as Figure 15As shown, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 enters from the doffing trolley 4 side, causing the empty bobbin B0 to move back to the position between the bobbin supports 28 (fifth process). That is, empty bobbins B0 and yarn Y are simultaneously supplied to the position between a pair of bobbin supports 28. In this state, yarn Y is arranged across the axial end of the empty bobbin B0. Therefore, in this state, the cradle arm 21 is operated by the cradle operating arm 43 to bring one bobbin support 28 closer to the other bobbin support 28, thereby installing the empty bobbin B0 on ​​the bobbin support 28 and clamping and fixing the yarn Y between the end of the empty bobbin B0 and the bobbin support 28 (sixth process).

[0086] Then, the yarn Y is cut between the empty bobbin B0 and the suction tube 44 by the cutter (not shown) provided in the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. The bobbin holding part 52 releases its grip on the empty bobbin B0. The yarn winding roller 53 is brought into contact with the empty bobbin B0, and the empty bobbin B0 is rotated by the yarn winding roller 53. As a result, a yarn winding is formed near the axial end of the empty bobbin B0. Afterward, the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 retracts towards the doffing trolley 4, completing the initial winding process. At the same time as the initial winding process is completed, the unit controller 10 rotates the cradle arm 21 so that the empty bobbin B0 comes into contact with the take-up roller 22. As a result, a take-up tension is applied to the yarn Y, and the yarn Y is gradually unwound from the yarn storage device 11. The take-up operation of the yarn P begins immediately in the spinning unit 2 without interruption after the initial winding process is completed.

[0087] In the above, the process of the user operating the operation button 27 of the spinning unit 2 corresponds to the step of determining the spinning unit 2. The process of the doffing carriage 4 performing the starting winding process on the empty bobbin B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2 corresponds to the step of performing the starting winding process via the doffing carriage 4. The process of rotating the cradle arm 21 to apply winding tension to the yarn Y at the same time as the starting winding process is completed, and gradually unwinding the yarn Y from the yarn storage device 11 to begin the winding action of P, corresponds to the step of performing the winding action immediately after the starting winding process.

[0088] Furthermore, the procedure for when the initial winding process of the doffing carriage 4 fails is explained. When the initial winding process of the doffing carriage 4 fails, two countermeasures are implemented depending on the nature of the failure. First, the first countermeasure addresses the situation where the doffing carriage 4 fails to initiate the winding process onto the already installed empty bobbin B0. For example, this is equivalent to the suction tube 44 failing to draw yarn Y. At this time, no yarn has been wound onto the already installed empty bobbin B0, therefore, the already installed empty bobbin B0 can be used in the next initial winding process. Therefore, in the first countermeasure, the initial winding process of the doffing carriage 4 is restarted from the beginning. Next, the second countermeasure addresses the situation where the doffing carriage 4 fails to initiate the winding process onto the already installed empty bobbin B0. In this case, it is more likely that the process stops after the yarn has been wound onto the already installed empty bobbin B0, thus the already installed empty bobbin B0 with yarn wound cannot be used in the next initial winding process. Therefore, in the second countermeasure, the control unit 46 of the doffing carriage 4 illuminates the operator call alarm (not shown) located near the operation button 27 of the spinning unit 2, indicating that an installed empty bobbin B0 with yarn wound is installed in the spinning unit 2. Thus, as part of the second countermeasure, the operator guides the processing of the installed empty bobbin B0 with yarn wound. After processing the remaining yarn on the empty bobbin B0, the operator performs an alarm deactivation operation. Furthermore, with the installation of the empty bobbin B0 complete, the operation button 27 is operated, causing the machine control device 5C to confirm that the spinning unit 2 with the empty bobbin B0 has been installed. The machine control device 5C outputs a request to the doffing carriage 4 to begin the winding process of the empty bobbin B0 installed in the spinning unit 2 confirmed by this operation. The doffing carriage 4 accepts the request to begin the winding process, moves to the spinning unit 2 confirmed by the operation button 27, and begins the winding process again.

[0089] Next, an example of replenishing empty bobbins B0 to the winding hopper 41 of the doffing trolley 4 will be described. For example, when the empty bobbin supply start condition, such as the number of empty bobbins B0 held in the winding hopper 41 being 0, is met, the doffing trolley 4 moves to the supply position SP of the bobbin storage tank 60 and accepts new bobbins B. At this time, the doffing trolley 4 does not accept the supply of empty bobbins B0 from the bobbin storage tank 60 to the winding hopper 41 during a predetermined period from the issuance of the start winding request to the commencement of the start winding process. In other words, outside of the predetermined period, the doffing trolley 4 moves to the bobbin storage tank 60 to accept the supply of empty bobbins B0 from the bobbin storage tank 60 to the winding hopper 41 when the empty bobbin supply start condition is met. The empty bobbin supply start condition is specifically limited and can be various conditions. The conditions for starting the supply of empty bobbins can also be met when the number of empty bobbins B0 in the hopper 41 of the doffing trolley 4 is more than one but less than the required number, and the bobbins cannot be discharged by the doffing trolley 4 during the operation of the winding conveyor 80. Alternatively, the conditions for starting the supply of empty bobbins can also be met when the user operates the operation button or input key 5E of the doffing trolley 4. In addition to the configuration where the doffing trolley 4 receives the supply of bobbins B from the bobbin storage unit 60, the user can also directly supply bobbins B to the hopper 41 of the doffing trolley 4.

[0090] Next, an example of the operation during the startup (start-up, commencement of mass production) of spinning machine 1 will be explained.

[0091] The user first installs empty bobbins B0 on ​​multiple spinning units 2 and operates the operation buttons 27 of these multiple spinning units 2. This sends a request from the machine control device 5C to the doffing carriage 4 to initiate the winding process of the multiple spinning units 2. As a result, the doffing carriage 4 sequentially initiates the winding process on the empty bobbins B0 already installed on the multiple spinning units 2. Furthermore, the multiple spinning units 2 targeted for the winding process can be all spinning units 2 of the spinning machine 1, or only a portion of the spinning units 2. Additionally, the user can also select the desired spinning unit from the display screen 5D (see reference). Figure 1 In this process, multiple spinning units 2 are operated together to perform the start winding process.

[0092] In the spinning machine 1, for example, when the user installs the empty bobbin B0 into the spinning unit 2, the spinning unit 2 is selected by operating button 27. This allows the doffing carriage 4 to begin winding the empty bobbin B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2. This reduces the frequency of the doffing carriage 4 re-preparing the empty bobbin B0 and the frequency of replenishing the doffing carriage 4 with empty bobbins B0. Furthermore, the take-up operation immediately follows the start of the winding process (in other words, the process is uninterrupted between the start of the winding process and the take-up operation), thus reducing unnecessary standby time. Therefore, according to the spinning machine 1, a reduction in processing capacity can be avoided. For example, when the frequency of package P becoming a full package is high, using the empty bobbin B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2 is effective. For cases where the frequency of package P becoming a full roll is relatively high, assuming at least one of the following: high spinning speed or take-up speed; relatively thick yarn Y being taken into package P; or small full roll diameter of package P (short full roll length). Furthermore, taking up the winding operation immediately following the start of the winding process means at least one of the following: taking up the operation immediately after the start of the winding process; taking up the operation continuously after the start of the winding process; taking up the operation without delay (without interval) after the start of the winding process; or taking up the operation at a timing that is not later than the end timing of the start of the winding process.

[0093] In the spinning machine 1, the operation button 27 constitutes an operating unit capable of accepting operations that determine the spinning unit 2 with the empty bobbin B0 already installed. In this case, the operation button 27 and the spinning unit 2 determined by the operation have a one-to-one relationship. Since they are clearly associated, the spinning unit 2 with the empty bobbin B0 installed can be accurately determined by the user's operation via the operation button 27. In the spinning machine 1, the spinning unit 2 whose operation button 27 is operated can be directly treated as the spinning unit 2 with the empty bobbin B0 installed, without any discrimination processing.

[0094] In the spinning machine 1, operation buttons 27 are respectively provided in multiple spinning units 2. In this case, operation buttons 27 can be operated in each of the multiple spinning units 2. Furthermore, there is a one-to-one relationship between the operation button 27 and the spinning unit 2 determined by the operation, so, for example, by using the operation of the user via the operation button 27, the spinning unit 2 with the empty bobbin B0 installed can be accurately determined.

[0095] In the spinning machine 1, the spinning unit 2 has a bobbin support 28. The start-winding process includes a first process of removing the empty bobbin that has been installed on the bobbin support 28 of the spinning unit 2. In this case, by removing the empty bobbin B0 during the start-winding process, for example, working space can be ensured between the bobbin support 28 and the empty bobbin B0.

[0096] In the spinning machine 1, the doffing carriage 4 has a bobbin mounting mechanism 42. The start-winding process includes a second process after the first process, in which the empty bobbin B0, whose mounting relative to the spinning unit 2 has been released, is moved to a predetermined position by the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. In this case, during the start-winding process, the empty bobbin B0 can be moved to the predetermined position, and appropriate operations can be performed on the empty bobbin B0.

[0097] In the spinning machine 1, the doffing carriage 4 has a suction tube 44. The start-winding process includes a third process of capturing the yarn Y through the suction tube 44. In this case, during the start-winding process, the yarn Y can be captured by the suction tube 44, fixing the yarn Y relative to the empty bobbin B0. In the spinning machine 1, the first, second, and third processes are performed in parallel. In this case, the time required for the start-winding process can be reduced. Furthermore, the first, second, and third processes are not limited to being performed in parallel; at least two of the first, second, and third processes can be performed in parallel.

[0098] In the spinning machine 1, the winding start process includes: a fourth process, after the second and third processes, moving the suction tube 44, which has captured the yarn Y, to a standby position; a fifth process, after the fourth process, moving the empty bobbin B0, which has been moved to a predetermined position, towards the bobbin holder 28 via the bobbin mounting mechanism 42; and a sixth process, after the fifth process, mounting the empty bobbin onto the bobbin holder 28. In this case, during the winding start process, the suction tube 44, which has captured the yarn Y, is moved to the standby position, and the empty bobbin B0, which has been moved to the predetermined position, is returned to the bobbin holder 28, thereby determining the positional relationship between the bobbin holder 28, the empty bobbin B0, and the yarn Y.

[0099] In the spinning machine 1, when multiple spinning units 2 with empty bobbins B0 installed are selected via operation button 27, the doffing carriage 4 sequentially initiates the winding process for each of the empty bobbins B0 installed in the multiple spinning units 2. In this case, when multiple spinning units 2 have empty bobbins B0 installed (for example, when the spinning machine 1 is started), the doffing carriage 4 can efficiently initiate the winding process.

[0100] In the spinning machine 1, each of the multiple spinning units 2 has a traverse guide 23 and a traverse drive unit 25 that independently drives the traverse guide 23. In this case, the traverse guide 23 can be driven for each spinning unit 2, so the take-up operation can be performed without interruption after a portion of the winding process is performed by the traverse guide 23. That is, after the yarn wrapping is formed with the traverse guide 23 located outside the winding width of the package P and inside the end face of the empty bobbin B0, the yarn Y is not removed from the traverse guide 23, but the traverse guide 23 is moved from the yarn wrapping position (area) to within the winding width of the package P and moves back and forth, thereby enabling the uninterrupted winding of the yarn wrapping and the take-up operation of the package P (traverse movement of the yarn Y). Thus, in each spinning unit 2, a wrapped yarn can be formed and the subsequent take-up action (take-up of package P) can continue.

[0101] In the spinning machine 1, each of the multiple spinning units 2 has a take-up roller 22 that rotates the bobbin B or the package P, and a bobbin drive unit 29 that independently drives the take-up roller 22. In this case, the take-up roller 22 can be driven for each spinning unit 2, so the take-up operation can be performed without interruption after a portion of the initial winding process is performed by the take-up roller 22. That is, with the traverse guide 23 positioned outside the winding width of the package P and inside the end face of the empty bobbin B0, after the empty bobbin B0 is rotated by the take-up roller 22 to form a wrapped yarn, the contact state between the take-up roller 22 and the bobbin B is maintained, and the bobbin B is rotated at the take-up speed. Thus, in each spinning unit 2, a wrapped yarn can be formed, and the subsequent take-up operation (take-up of the package P) can continue.

[0102] In the spinning machine 1, the doffing carriage 4 has a bobbin magazine 41. Bobbin setting processing is performed on spinning units 2 that are not selected by operation button 27, but not on spinning units 2 selected by operation button 27. In this case, empty bobbins B0 can be supplied from the bobbin magazine 41 to spinning units 2 other than those already fitted with empty bobbins B0, and the winding of yarn Y can begin, through the bobbin setting processing of the doffing carriage 4.

[0103] In the spinning machine 1, the doffing carriage 4 does not accept the supply of empty bobbins B0 from the bobbin storage 60 to the winding magazine 41 during a predetermined period from the issuance of a start winding request for the empty bobbins B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2 (determined by operation button 27) to the completion of the start winding process. During this predetermined period, the doffing carriage 4 can use the empty bobbins B0 already installed in the spinning unit 2, therefore, the winding magazine 41 does not need to store empty bobbins B0, and there is no need to replenish the winding magazine 41 with empty bobbins B0. Therefore, in this case, the time required for replenishment can be eliminated during the predetermined period, and a reduction in processing capacity can be avoided. During the predetermined period, the doffing carriage 4 does not move to the bobbin storage 60 to accept empty bobbins B0, therefore, the travel distance of the doffing carriage 4 can be shortened, and the overall operating efficiency of the spinning machine 1 can be improved.

[0104] In the spinning machine 1, if the doffing carriage 4 meets the empty bobbin supply start condition during a period other than a predetermined period, it moves to the bobbin storage tank 60 to receive the supply of empty bobbins B0 from the bobbin storage tank 60 to the yarn feeder 41. In this case, empty bobbins B0 can be appropriately replenished to the yarn feeder 41 during periods other than the predetermined period. Furthermore, if the doffing carriage 4 does not move to the bobbin storage tank 60 during the predetermined period, the movement efficiency of the doffing carriage 4 can be improved.

[0105] In the spinning machine 1, the doffing carriage 4 does not perform the discharge process on the spinning unit 2 determined by the operation button 27. In this case, it is possible to prevent the empty bobbin B0, which has been installed in the spinning unit 2 determined by the operation button 27, from being discharged from the spinning unit 2 through the discharge process. Furthermore, by having the user discharge the package P relative to the spinning unit 2 and install the empty bobbin B0, the load on the doffing carriage 4 can be reduced.

[0106] The yarn take-up method includes: a step of determining the spinning unit 2; a step of performing a starting winding process on the empty bobbin B0, which is already installed in the determined spinning unit 2, using a doffing trolley 4 to begin winding yarn Y onto the empty bobbin B0; and a step of automatically performing a take-up operation in the spinning unit 2 immediately after the starting winding process. This yarn take-up method also avoids reducing processing capacity.

[0107] The embodiments have been described above, but one aspect of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit.

[0108] In the above embodiment, operation button 27 is provided as the operation unit, but the operation unit is not particularly limited. As long as it can accept user operation input, it can be various elements. For example, the operation unit can also be input key 5E (see reference). Figure 1The unit is configured such that the operating parts are respectively provided in multiple spinning units 2, but it is also possible to replace them or, based on this, provide the doffing carriage 4 in at least one of the first end frame (end frame) 5A and the second end frame (end frame) 5B. In this case, the operating parts can be operated in at least one of the first end frame 5A and the second end frame 5B.

[0109] In the above embodiments and variations, the unit determination unit may also include a first information acquisition unit. This first information acquisition unit acquires first information related to the color of the area including the bobbin B installed in the spinning unit 2, and determines that the spinning unit 2 has an empty bobbin B0 installed based on the acquired first information. The empty bobbin B0 and the package P can be distinguished based on their different colors. Therefore, in this case, for example, if the color of the package P (the color of the yarn Y) is dominant in the area including the bobbin B, it can be determined that the package P has been installed in the spinning unit 2; on the other hand, if the color of the empty bobbin B0 (the color of the paper tube) is dominant, it can be determined that the empty bobbin B0 has been installed in the spinning unit 2. That is, the spinning unit 2 with an empty bobbin B0 installed can be determined using the color of the area including the bobbin B installed in the spinning unit 2. As a result, the doffing trolley 4 can avoid mistakenly performing the start-winding process on the package P. As the first information acquisition unit, for example, a camera is used, and in this case, the first information is an image of the area including the bobbin B.

[0110] In the above embodiments and variations, the unit determination unit may also include a second information acquisition unit. This second information acquisition unit acquires second information related to the thickness of the yarn layer of the yarn Y wound on the bobbin B mounted on the spinning unit 2, and determines that the spinning unit 2 has an empty bobbin B0 installed based on the acquired second information. The empty bobbin B0 and the package P can be distinguished based on the thickness of the yarn layer of the yarn Y wound on the bobbin B (the distance from the outer peripheral surface of the empty bobbin B0 to the winding portion (outer peripheral surface) of the package P). Therefore, in this case, for example, if the yarn layer of the wound yarn Y is thick, it can be determined that the package P has been installed on the spinning unit 2; on the other hand, if there is no yarn layer of the wound yarn Y, it can be determined that the empty bobbin B0 has been installed on the spinning unit 2. That is, the spinning unit 2 with an empty bobbin B0 installed can be determined using the thickness of the yarn layer of the yarn Y wound on the empty bobbin B0 mounted on the spinning unit 2. This prevents the doffing trolley 4 from incorrectly initiating the winding process on the package P. As the second information acquisition unit, for example, a distance sensor is used; in this case, the second information is the distance from the distance sensor to a predetermined position on the outer circumferential surface of the package P or bobbin B.

[0111] In the above embodiments and variations, the unit determination unit may also include a third information acquisition unit. This third information acquisition unit acquires third information related to the rotational speed (rotational speed per unit time) of the bobbin B or package P rotated by the take-up roller 22, and determines the spinning unit 2 that has an empty bobbin B0 installed based on the acquired third information. When the empty bobbin B0 or ​​package P is rotated by the take-up roller 22, for example, if the diameter of package P is large, the distance (time) until package P completes one revolution is long. Therefore, the empty bobbin B0 and package P rotated by the take-up roller 22 can be distinguished based on this rotational speed. In this case, if the acquired rotational speed is less than a threshold, it can be determined that package P has been installed in the spinning unit 2, and if the acquired rotational speed is at or above the threshold, it can be determined that the empty bobbin B0 has been installed in the spinning unit 2. That is, the spinning unit 2 with an empty bobbin B0 installed can be determined using the rotational speed of the bobbin B or package P. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the doffing carriage 4 from erroneously initiating the winding process on the package P. Furthermore, since the spinning machine 1 often includes a third information acquisition unit for the take-up operation, it is unnecessary to install an additional sensor on the spinning machine 1 to determine if the spinning unit 2 with the empty bobbin B0 is installed, thus simplifying the configuration of the spinning machine 1. As the third information acquisition unit, for example, a rotation sensor of the take-up roller 22 is used; in this case, the third information is the rotational speed of the take-up roller 22.

[0112] Furthermore, when the spinning unit 2 is determined based on multiple pieces of information (such as user actions, information 1 to 3), it can also be determined that the spinning unit 2 has an empty bobbin B0 installed if all of them indicate that an empty bobbin B0 has been installed. Alternatively, for the spinning unit 2 whose operation button 27 is activated, it can also be determined that the spinning unit 2 has an empty bobbin B0 installed if at least any of the information 1 to 3 indicates that an empty bobbin B0 has been installed.

[0113] In the above embodiments and modifications, the predetermined position where the empty bobbin B0, whose installation has been disengaged, is moved by the bobbin mounting mechanism 42 is set as the origin position of the bobbin mounting mechanism 42. However, the predetermined position is not particularly limited and can be various positions. For example, the predetermined position can be a position outside the doffing carriage 4. In the above embodiments and modifications, the empty bobbin B0 can also be transported from the bobbin storage device 60 to the doffing carriage 4 by a belt provided along the length direction of the spinning machine 1. In the above embodiments and modifications, the empty bobbin B0 and the yarn Y are guided to the bobbin support 28 simultaneously. However, the empty bobbin B0 can be guided to the bobbin support 28 first, and then the yarn Y can be guided between the empty bobbin B0 and the bobbin support 28. The guidance sequence can also be reversed.

[0114] In the above embodiments and modifications, the yarn take-up machine is described as a spinning machine 1 and the take-up unit is described as a spinning unit 2, as an example. However, the yarn take-up machine can also be an automatic doffing machine or a free-end spinning machine. In the above embodiments and modifications, the doffing trolley 4 is described as an example, provided between the spinning unit 2 and the package conveyor 80. However, the package conveyor 80 can also be provided between the spinning unit 2 and the doffing trolley 4.

[0115] In the above embodiments and modifications, the bobbin storage device 60 is described as being disposed at one end of the arrangement direction of the plurality of spinning units 2 (the end where the first end frame 5A is disposed). However, the bobbin storage device 60 may also be disposed at the other end of the arrangement direction of the plurality of spinning units 2 (the end where the second end frame 5B is disposed). Multiple bobbin storage devices 60 may also be provided. In this case, the spinning machine 1 may also have multiple doffing trolleys 4.

[0116] In the above embodiments and variations, Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a state in which the operator can visually identify the bobbins B housed in the bobbin reservoir 60 from the front of the spinning machine 1. However, the arrangement of the bobbin reservoir 60 is not limited to this arrangement; for example, it may be arranged on at least one of the sides and the back of the spinning machine 1. Instead of arranging the bobbin reservoir 60 at the end of the spinning machine 1 in the longitudinal direction (the arrangement direction of the spinning units 2), it may be arranged at the center of the spinning machine 1 in the longitudinal direction.

[0117] In the above embodiments and modifications, the method of conveying the roll P by the roll conveyor 80 is described as an example. However, the method of conveying the roll P by the roll conveyor 80 is not limited to a conveyor belt. In the above embodiments and modifications, instead of the roll conveyor 80, a loading platform that is configured to hold the roll P discharged from the spinning unit 2 but does not have a conveying function may be provided.

[0118] In the above embodiments and modifications, in the spinning machine 1, each device is configured such that the yarn Y supplied from the upper side in the height direction is wound up from the lower side. However, in the spinning machine 1, each device may also be configured such that the yarn supplied from the lower side is wound up from the upper side. Furthermore, in the above embodiments and modifications, although there are devices in which multiple spinning units 2 share a drive unit, in each spinning unit 2, the spinning machine 1 may be configured such that all devices are driven independently of the other spinning units 2.

[0119] In the above embodiments and modifications, a display screen 5D and input keys 5E are provided in the second end frame 5B as an example. However, a touch panel display may also be provided in the second end frame 5B. In this case, the touch panel display may also be an operation unit. In the above embodiments and modifications, when the yarn Y is started to be wound into the empty bobbin B0, a wrapped yarn is formed in the empty bobbin B0. However, the wrapped yarn may not be formed, and the yarn Y may be started to be wound into the empty bobbin B0 by a winding method other than the wrapped yarn winding.

[0120] In the above embodiments and modifications, the doffing carriage 4 traveling on the travel path R2 was described as an example. However, the doffing carriage 4 may also travel on a track. The splicing carriage 3 may also travel on a track. The spinning machine 1 may also be configured such that the splicing carriage 3 is omitted, and each spinning unit 2 has at least a portion of the configuration associated with the splicing operation.

[0121] exist Figure 1 In the diagram, the spinning machine 1 is shown taking up a cone-shaped package P, but it can also take up a package P in the shape of a bobbin. In the spinning unit 2, the yarn storage device 11 has the function of pulling out yarn Y from the air-jet spinning device 7, but yarn Y can also be pulled out from the air-jet spinning device 7 via a feed roller and a clamping roller. When the yarn Y is pulled out from the air-jet spinning device 7 via the feed roller and the clamping roller, instead of the yarn storage device 11, a slack elimination tube that absorbs slack in the yarn Y by attracting airflow and a mechanical compensator can be provided.

[0122] In the direction of yarn Y's travel, 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. If the yarn Y is not waxed, the waxing device 12 can also be provided in the spinning unit 2, and wax can be removed from the waxing device 12. In the above description, the materials and shapes of each component are not limited to those described above, and various materials and shapes can be used.

Claims

1. A yarn winding machine, characterized in that, have: Multiple take-up units perform a take-up action to wind yarn into a bobbin to form a package; The automaton is configured to move relative to the plurality of the aforementioned winding units; and The unit determining unit determines the aforementioned winding unit with an empty bobbin installed. The aforementioned automatic machine initiates the winding process of yarn onto the empty bobbin that has been installed in the aforementioned take-up unit. After the above-described winding start process, the winding operation is performed in the winding unit immediately following the above-described winding start process.

2. The yarn winding machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned unit determination unit includes an operation unit capable of determining the aforementioned winding unit with an empty bobbin already installed. When the aforementioned operating unit is operated, the aforementioned automatic machine performs the aforementioned starting winding process on the empty bobbin that has been installed in the aforementioned winding unit determined by the operation.

3. The yarn winding machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned operating unit is disposed in each of the plurality of aforementioned winding units, and in at least one of the aforementioned automatic machine and end frame.

4. The yarn winding machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned unit determination unit includes multiple operation buttons, each corresponding to one of the aforementioned winding units. When at least one of the aforementioned operation buttons is operated, the aforementioned automatic machine performs the aforementioned start-winding process on the empty bobbin that has been installed in the aforementioned winding unit corresponding to the operated operation button.

5. The yarn winding machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned unit determination unit includes multiple operation buttons, each corresponding to one of the aforementioned winding units. When at least one of the aforementioned operation buttons is operated, the aforementioned automatic machine performs the aforementioned start-winding process on the empty bobbin that has been installed in the aforementioned winding unit corresponding to the operated operation button.

6. The yarn winding machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The aforementioned unit determination unit includes multiple operation buttons, each corresponding to one of the aforementioned winding units. When at least one of the aforementioned operation buttons is operated, the aforementioned automatic machine performs the aforementioned start-winding process on the empty bobbin that has been installed in the aforementioned winding unit corresponding to the operated operation button.

7. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The aforementioned winding unit has a bobbin support, on which the bobbin is rotatably mounted. The above-mentioned winding process includes a first process, which involves removing the empty bobbin that has been installed on the bobbin support of the winding unit.

8. The yarn winding machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The aforementioned automatic machine has a holding device for holding and moving the empty tube. The above-mentioned winding process includes a second process, after which the empty tube, whose installation relative to the winding unit has been released, is moved to a predetermined position by the above-mentioned holding device.

9. The yarn winding machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The aforementioned automatic machine has a yarn capturing and guiding device for capturing and guiding yarn. The above-mentioned winding process includes a third process, in which the yarn is captured by the yarn capture and guiding device.

10. The yarn winding machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least two of the above-mentioned first, second and third processes are implemented in parallel.

11. The yarn winding machine according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The above-mentioned winding start process includes: The fourth process involves moving the yarn-catching guide device, which has caught the yarn, to a standby position after the second and third processes described above. The fifth process involves moving the empty tube, which has been moved to the predetermined position, toward the tube support using the aforementioned holding device after the fourth process; and The sixth step involves installing an empty tube onto the tube support after the fifth step described above.

12. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, When the above-mentioned unit determination unit determines that multiple empty tubes have been installed, the above-mentioned automatic machine sequentially performs the above-mentioned start winding process on the empty tubes installed on the multiple winding units.

13. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned take-up units has a traverse guide that causes the yarn to traverse, and a traverse drive unit that independently drives the traverse guide.

14. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned winding units has a winding drum that rotates the bobbin or the roll, and a bobbin drive unit that independently drives the winding drum.

15. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The aforementioned unit determination unit includes a first information acquisition unit, which acquires first information related to the color of the area including the bobbin installed in the aforementioned winding unit, and determines the aforementioned winding unit that has an empty bobbin installed based on the acquired first information.

16. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The aforementioned unit determination unit includes a second information acquisition unit, which acquires second information related to the yarn layer thickness of the yarn wound on the bobbin mounted on the aforementioned take-up unit, and determines the aforementioned take-up unit that has an empty bobbin mounted on it based on the acquired second information.

17. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned winding units has a winding roller that contacts the outer circumferential surface of a bobbin or roll mounted on the winding unit, causing the bobbin or roll to rotate. The aforementioned unit determination unit includes a third information acquisition unit, which acquires third information related to the rotational speed of the bobbin or winding, and determines the winding unit that has an empty bobbin installed based on the acquired third information.

18. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The above-mentioned automata are, It has a storage compartment that can accommodate multiple empty tubes. For the take-up unit not determined by the aforementioned unit determination unit, a bobbin setting process is implemented where an empty bobbin is supplied from the aforementioned silo and the yarn winding begins. For the winding unit determined by the above-mentioned unit determination unit, the above-mentioned bobbin setting process is not performed.

19. The yarn winding machine according to claim 18, characterized in that, The aforementioned automatic machine, during a predetermined period from the issuance of a request related to the commencement of winding processing for the empty bobbins already installed in the winding unit determined by the aforementioned unit determination unit, to the commencement of the winding processing, does not accept the supply of empty bobbins from the bobbin storage container storing multiple empty bobbins to the aforementioned warehouse.

20. The yarn winding machine according to claim 19, characterized in that, The aforementioned automatic machine, during a period other than the aforementioned specified period, moves to the aforementioned bobbin storage unit and receives the supply of empty bobbins from the aforementioned bobbin storage unit to the aforementioned silo when the conditions for starting the supply of empty bobbins are met.

21. The yarn winding machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The automatic machine does not perform the discharge process of discharging the installed bobbin or roll from the winding unit for the winding unit determined by the unit determination unit.

22. A yarn winding method using a yarn winding machine comprising: a plurality of winding units for performing a winding action to wind yarn onto a bobbin to form a package; and an automatic machine configured to move relative to the plurality of winding units. The above-mentioned yarn take-up method is characterized by including: The steps for determining the above-mentioned winding unit with an empty bobbin installed; The aforementioned automatic machine performs the initial winding process of winding yarn onto the empty bobbin already installed in the aforementioned take-up unit; and The winding operation is performed in the winding unit immediately following the winding start process described above.

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