Sinkers, knitting devices and knitting methods for producing knitted articles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a knitting apparatus (14) having a sinker (1) and a method for producing knitted fabric with a uniform loop structure over its entire service life, having an action pair comprising at least two sub-elements (6, 18). This action pair enables a downward force (7) acting in the height direction (H) of the sinker to be applied to the sinker (1). During knitting operation, the force (7) reacts against a loop-forming force acting at the loop-forming device (3) of the sinker (1), thus preventing unevenness, such as sinker stripes, in the resulting knitted fabric.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Sinkers used in knitting apparatus or knitting machines have been known for decades. In addition to sinkers, knitting apparatuses typically have multiple needles, at least one needle carrier (usually a knitting cylinder), and at least one sinker carrier. Sinkers used in knitting machines have loop-forming devices that are connected to the yarn during knitting operations. Loop-breaking edges and holding edges (Niederhaltekante, sometimes also called pressing edges) are examples of such loop-forming devices. Generally, sinkers in knitting machines perform essentially two tasks: on the one hand, when the needle moves to its lowest (retracted) position—the loop-breaking position—the sinker uses its loop-breaking edge to form the loop length; and on the other hand, when the needle moves to its highest (extended) position—the holding position—the sinker uses its holding edge (niederhalten, sometimes also called pressing) to hold (niederhalten, sometimes also called pressing) the resulting knitted fabric. However, depending on the design of the knitting apparatus, it is also conceivable that sinkers perform only one of these two tasks. To accomplish different tasks, each settling plate undergoes a settling plate movement in its longitudinal direction, coordinated with the needle movement. The needle movement extends in its longitudinal direction, which is typically perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the settling plate. However, the direction of the needle movement can also enclose the longitudinal direction of the settling plate at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. The settling plate is typically received in slots arranged on the upper side of both the needle carrier and the settling plate carrier, extending in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate. These slots are typically spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the settling plate by the slot walls. In the cases of disengagement and gripping described above, the settling plate continues to experience a force acting in its height direction, which extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the settling plate. This force acts upward in the positive height direction of the settling plate during gripping and downward in the negative height direction during disengagement. As a result, this causes an undesirable height movement of the settling plate in the height direction, which varies in sign depending on the direction of the force. This leads to the following disadvantages: a gap is created between the sinker and the knitting coil during upward vertical movement, allowing dirt to accumulate. This increases the power requirements of the knitting machine and also generates more wear. Downward vertical movement also increases wear in the contact area between the sinker and the knitting coil. Furthermore, fluctuations in the sinker's position along its height due to forces acting on it and increased wear can cause unevenness in the resulting knit. This unevenness is often visible in the stripes—sinker stripe stripes—of the knit. In common sinkers with both a holding edge and a loop-off edge, the resulting knit is pulled downwards along the sinker's height by an adjustable pull-down force via the loop-off edge.Here, through contact with the knitted fabric, a downward force is applied to the sinker in the sinker height direction, and this force reacts to the sinker movement in the sinker height direction. Knitting devices are known in the prior art that can change the pull-down direction of the knitted fabric via an additional device, and thus also change the force applied downward to the sinker by the knitted fabric through the article. An example of such a device is a fabric guide ring, which can be adjusted in its height to change the pull-down direction of the article. Even when the knitted fabric is pulled down with a relatively small pull-down force, sinker movement can still occur in the sinker height direction despite the force applied to the sinker due to the article pull-down. This sinker movement results in unevenness in the knitted fabric, particularly sinker stripes.

[0002] DE10015730A1 discloses a sinker and a knitting machine operating according to related art. The sinker has a holding edge for holding loops and is guided on a carrier of the knitting device. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the needle's extension movement extends exactly opposite to its pull-down movement. Therefore, it is also apparent that, during needle extension, the previously formed loop is held at the holding edge of the sinker, and a loop-forming force acts at the holding edge, perpendicular to the holding edge—in the present case, the direction of the loop-forming force corresponds to the direction of the extension movement.

[0003] In one embodiment, the sinker has an elastic element that, through its interaction with the carrier, applies a force perpendicular to the pull-out motion of the needles. The force applied to the sinker should balance manufacturing tolerances and ensure reliable contact of the sinker with the carrier as it moves from its enclosed position to its unhooked position. Such a sinker can deviate in the direction of the loop-forming force during knitting, resulting in undesirable movement that causes sinker stripes.

[0004] DE2154323A1 discloses a device for forming loops on a circular knitting machine, the device having a sinker and a circular knitting cylinder. In DE2154323A1... Figure 1 As can be seen, the sinker has a lower support leg (#13) that is guided in an annular guide (#12), thereby preventing the sinker from being "lifted" from the circular knitting bobbin or from the sinker carrier connected to the circular knitting bobbin in a direction perpendicular to the sinker's movement. Sinkers with such a support leg that engages in the annular guide are also known, for example, by GB349443. However, it has been shown in such sinkers that sinker streaks frequently appear in the resulting knitwear, especially with increasing running duration.

[0005] EP1057914B1 discloses a circular knitting machine that restricts the movement of the sinker in the sinker height direction by means of a limiting element. For this purpose, the limiting element is arranged in the receiving section of the knitting bobbin such that it is immovable in the sinker height direction. The sinker can move horizontally relative to the limiting element and the knitting bobbin, wherein the limiting element is form-fitted into the sinker in the sinker height direction, and there is a sliding contact between the limiting element and the sinker. This form-fitting engagement should restrict the movement of the sinker in the sinker height direction. However, it has been shown that even in sinkers or knitting systems with the above-described features, unevenness is still always produced in the knitted fabric. These unevennesses even increase with the age of the knitting system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a sinker for a knitting machine and a knitting system that achieves the production of knitted fabrics with uniform loop structures throughout the entire service life of the knitting machine.

[0007] The task is solved by claims 1, 8, and 15. A sinker for use in a knitting machine includes a rod extending primarily in the longitudinal direction of the sinker, wherein the rod has at least one loop-forming device at its front end in the longitudinal direction of the sinker, the at least one loop-forming device being in contact with the yarn during knitting and participating in loop formation, wherein the at least one loop-forming device is a holding edge for holding the just-finished knit. During knitting, the holding edge prevents the loop connected to the needle from moving in the needle longitudinal direction as the needle makes a forward movement. Instead, the loop is held in a fixed position in the needle longitudinal direction at the holding edge, and the loop is held. Here, the rod of the needle slides along the loop, and the loop "slips" onto the rod of the needle. In the knitting method, when the loop is held, a loop-forming force acts at the holding edge of the sinker, the loop-forming force acting upward in the height direction of the sinker. The bar has at least one sliding base surface, wherein the sliding base surface extends in the longitudinal direction of the sinker and in the width direction of the sinker extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the sinker, and downwardly restricts the extension of the bar in the height direction of the sinker extending transversely to the longitudinal and width directions of the sinker, and is provided such that the sinker can slide on the sliding base surface during knitting operation. The sliding base surface restricts the extension of the bar in the height direction of the sinker, at least in the longitudinally extending section of the bar. Additionally, the sinker also includes a first sub-element of an action pair for applying a force acting in the height direction of the sinker, wherein the action pair preferably includes at least one elastic element, and wherein the sinker can be pre-tensioned in the knitting apparatus in the height direction of the sinker by means of the force that can be applied by the action pair in order to balance the loop-forming force. The force that can be applied acts downwardly on the sinker in the height direction of the sinker. The force that can be applied by the action pair can also have directional components in the longitudinal direction and / or width direction of the sinker. Preferably, the force component in the height direction of the sinker is greater than the force components in the longitudinal and width directions of the sinker. The force that can be applied by means of the action pair can pre-tighten the sinker in the height direction of the sinker in the knitting apparatus. In this way, the loop-forming force acting upward in the height direction of the sinker can be balanced, which acts at the holding edge of the sinker in the knitting method, for example, when the loop is held, in order to reduce or completely prevent undesirable vertical upward movement of the sinker in the height direction of the sinker. In addition to the first sub-element, the action pair advantageously includes a second sub-element, which functions together with the first sub-element—for example, through contact—to apply force.In a knitting apparatus, the second sub-element can advantageously be a component of the needle carrier, a component of the comb ring (sometimes also called a circular comb), a component of the sinker carrier (e.g., a sinker ring), or a component of the sinker triangle, or the second sub-element can be fixed to the sinker carrier, sinker ring, or sinker triangle. As in known knitting methods, the sinker is typically engaged in and driven by a drive foot into the sinker triangle to perform knitting movements common to sinkers, in which the sinker moves alternately along its longitudinal direction. This, in turn, also means that a portion of the sinker triangle engages in the sinker. Knitting apparatuses are also known in which the sinker triangle engages in the sinker between the drive foot and the extension area. During knitting movements along the longitudinal direction of the sinker, the drive foot may only be in contact with the sinker triangle on its surface pointing in the longitudinal direction of the sinker. In the context of this patent application, this can also be understood as the drive foot engaging with the sinker triangle. Here, the first sub-element of the action pair also moves together, which is part of the sinker. Advantageously, the action pairs can interact in different ways depending on the position of the sinker during its knitting motion: for example, the force that can be applied by the action pairs can also alternately increase and / or decrease with alternating knitting motions. Another advantage of the invention is that gaps that inevitably occur in prior art knitting devices after long running durations and that reinforce the resulting unevenness or sinker stripes in the knitted fabric can be balanced or eliminated by means of the measures according to the invention. In such systems, gaps inevitably occur in the areas of sliding contact due to wear as the running duration passes. Such gaps can lead to unevenness or sinker stripes in the resulting knitted fabric.

[0008] Particularly advantageously, as the sinker extends further in its longitudinal direction (i.e., toward the needle carrier), the force that can be applied by the action pair also increases. Advantageously, the force that can be applied is greatest in the stage of the knitting motion where the sinker extends furthest in its longitudinal direction toward its front end (i.e., toward the needle carrier). Advantageously, this is the stage in which the needles in a typical knitting device perform a knitting motion in their longitudinal direction toward their loop-forming device, and the loop emerges from the hook of the needle and slides over the claw and tongue of the needle onto the needle bar. The loop is thus held, and the sinker is in its held position here.

[0009] As has been seen from the advantageous properties of the pair of action mentioned above in terms of its force provision, it is also advantageous that the force is effective at least during a significant phase of the knitting motion (e.g., during the holding of the sinker or during at least 20% of the knitting cycle).

[0010] At least one of the sub-elements can advantageously be an elastic element that can elastically deform (e.g., by bending) in the sinker height direction, thereby providing an applicable force in the form of an elastic force in the sinker height direction. Advantageously, depending on the position of the sinker during its knitting movement, this elastic element elastically deforms at varying intensities during the knitting movement, thus changing the value of the applicable force during the knitting movement. Further advantages are obtained if, during the knitting operation, the elastic element is in contact with the second sub-element at a maximum of 50% of its longitudinal extension. Both the first and second sub-elements can be elastic elements. Advantageously, one of the sub-elements is a contact surface that is substantially rigid—i.e., inelastic—and acts in conjunction with the elastic element. For example, the elastic element can be supported at the contact surface. Such a contact surface can be, for example, the sub-surface of an annular guide, the sub-surface of a needle carrier, or a triangular member. The sub-face of the sinker or the sub-face of the sinker carrier. Advantageously, the contact surfaces are arranged such that the elastic element presses against the contact surface in the longitudinal direction of the sinker and is forced to undergo elastic deformation in the height direction of the sinker during the knitting movement of the sinker. The driving force required for this in the knitting movement direction of the sinker is applied to the sinker via the sinker triangle. In an advantageous embodiment, the first sub-element is the elastic element of the sinker, and the second sub-element is the contact surface of the knitting device. In an alternative embodiment, the first sub-element is the contact surface of the sinker, and the second sub-element is an elastic element associated with the knitting device. Further advantages are obtained when both the first and second sub-elements are elastic elements. Advantageously, the first and / or second sub-elements of the action pair act only (selectively) on the sinker. However, the first or second sub-element can also be designed such that it is functionally connected to multiple sinkers of the knitting device simultaneously. The action pair preferably applies a force persistently during at least one phase of the knitting movement, wherein the magnitude of the force can vary. Even if the sinker bar is ideally oriented in the direction of the knitting movement, the action pair can still apply force to the sinker. During knitting operations, a sinker movement can occur in common sinkers where the sinker, with its driving foot and / or a sub-region of the bar arranged between the driving foot and the protruding area, is briefly supported at the sinker triangle in the sinker height direction. Here, a force acts briefly between the driving foot and the sinker triangle in the sinker height direction. However, the combination of this sub-region of the driving foot or bar and the sinker triangle is not an action pair in the sense of this patent application, because these combinations only apply force in the sinker height direction when an undesirable vertical sinker movement occurs along the sinker height direction, and therefore cannot prevent sinker streaks in the resulting knit. Furthermore, the first sub-element of the action pair is not the loop-forming area of ​​the sinker—that is, not the area of ​​the sinker that is in contact with the yarn during loop-forming. Conversely, the first sub-element of the action pair is a feature of the settling plate that, in addition to the common looping area of ​​a settling plate, applies a force to the settling plate in conjunction with the second sub-element of the action pair. This force can react with the looping force appearing in the looping area of ​​the settling plate. For example, the action pair may include a magnetic or electrically controlled actuator (such as a piezoelectric actuator, electromagnetic actuator, or pneumatic actuator). Advantageously, the settling plate and the first sub-element are one piece—the settling plate and the first sub-element are thus composed of a single component. For example, the settling plate and the first sub-element can be stamped out of sheet metal as a single component. Further advantages are obtained when the first sub-element is joined to the settling plate (the settling plate and the first sub-element are thus initially separate components that are connected to each other by a joining method—preferably inseparably).The first sub-element can be joined to the sinker sheet, for example, by caulking, bonding, welding, or brazing, if modified. Advantageously, the first sub-element is form-fitted to the rest of the sinker sheet. For this purpose, the first sub-element advantageously includes a connecting structure that form-fits into the connecting portion of the sinker sheet. The connecting portion is advantageously a gap in the rod portion of the sinker sheet, the outline of which corresponds to the outline of the connecting structure of the first sub-element in a plane opened by the longitudinal and height directions of the sinker sheet and passes through the rod portion in the width direction of the sinker sheet. A reaction force can be applied by the action pair, which acts on the sinker sheet during knitting and can result in an uneven loop structure.

[0011] Further advantages are obtained if the sinker includes a protruding area comprising the loop-forming device and the front end of the rod, the protruding area comprising 10-50%, but preferably 25-40%, of the longitudinal extension of the rod, and the protruding area containing the first sub-element of the action pair. The protruding area is a portion of the sinker that protrudes longitudinally toward the loop-forming tool from the sinker carrier during knitting operations. During knitting operations, loop-forming forces act at the sinker at the loop-forming device (e.g., the gripping edge) in the sinker height direction, essentially acting at the loop-forming device during gripping or unhooking. Forces that can be applied by the action pair can react upon these loop-forming forces. A short force transmission path is created within the sinker if not only the loop-forming device but also the first sub-element of the action pair is arranged in the protruding area, which is particularly advantageous.

[0012] An advantageous alternative is to arrange the first sub-element, preferably an elastic element, at the rear end of the rod opposite the front end of the rod in the longitudinal direction of the sinker piece. Advantageously, the first sub-element at least partially overlaps the rod in the longitudinal direction of the sinker piece and has at least one sub-region spaced apart from the rod in the height direction of the sinker piece. When the first sub-element is arranged at the rear end of the rod, it can advantageously contact a sub-region of the sinker piece carrier during knitting operation, wherein this sub-region of the sinker piece carrier can be a second sub-element of the action pair. In particular, the first sub-element can be an elastic element arranged at the rear end of the rod and supported at a contact surface to allow for elastic deformation. The contact surface can be part of the sinker piece carrier and form the second sub-element of the action pair. Further advantages are provided if the sinker piece has a driving foot arranged at the rear end of the rod and extending upward beyond the adjacent area of ​​the rod in the height direction of the sinker piece, with the first sub-element, preferably an elastic element, arranged between the driving foot and the extended area in the longitudinal direction of the sinker piece. Advantageously, the first sub-element is arranged at the rod portion of the sinker. Particularly advantageously, the first sub-element extends upward beyond the area surrounding the rod portion in the height direction of the sinker. When the first sub-element is arranged between the drive foot and the extension area, it advantageously contacts the sinker triangle during knitting operation, wherein the sinker triangle can serve as a second sub-element of the action pair to apply force by means of the action pair.

[0013] Advantageously, the settling plate includes at least one sliding surface that mates with the protruding area. The at least one sliding surface extends along the width and longitudinal direction of the settling plate of the rod, and the surface normal of the at least one sliding surface in the height direction of the settling plate of the rod points in the same direction as the force that can be applied to the settling plate by the action pair. Therefore, the sliding surface points substantially downward in the height direction of the settling plate. Advantageously, the surface normal of the sliding surface has at least one directional component that points in the same direction as the force that can be applied to the settling plate by the action pair. Advantageously, the settling plate is rigid in the region adjacent to the sliding surface in the height direction of the settling plate, i.e., it cannot be elastically deformed. Therefore, the sliding surface can serve as a resting part, by which the settling plate rests against the needle carrier or on a component connected to the needle carrier and ensures accurate positioning of the settling plate in the height direction of the settling plate. Advantageously, the at least one sliding surface can be part of a sliding base surface. However, the at least one sliding base surface may also be separate from and spaced apart from the sliding base surface in the height direction. Advantageously, the settling plate includes at least two sliding surfaces (e.g., a sliding base surface and an additional sliding surface), which are preferably spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate and / or the height direction of the settling plate.

[0014] Advantageously, the sinker also has a feature in which at least one sliding surface at least partially overlaps with the first sub-element—in the longitudinal direction of the sinker. Thus, at least a portion of the sliding surface is not spaced apart from the first sub-element in the longitudinal direction of the sinker. However, the sliding surface can be spaced apart from the first sub-element, particularly in the height direction of the sinker. This results in a small mechanical load on the sinker and ensures a durable, uniform coil structure.

[0015] Advantageously, the sinker (in addition to the holding edge) includes an additional loop-forming device, preferably a loop-removing edge for removing loops from the freshly knitted fabric. Particularly advantageously, the holding edge and the additional loop-forming device—preferably the loop-removing edge—form a throat together in the sinker, wherein the holding edge limits the throat upward in the height direction of the sinker, while the loop-removing edge limits the throat downward in the height direction of the sinker.

[0016] Advantageously, the first sub-element is an elastic element, which includes a leg. The leg is preferably formed by an indentation cut into the rod or a recess defined in the rod. The indentation has extension in both the longitudinal direction and the height direction of the settling plate. The elastic element elastically yields or elastically deforms in the height direction of the settling plate. Even under repeated and oscillating loads, the elastic element withstands deformation. Advantageously, the elastic element is implemented as a bending elastic element. Advantageously, the elastic element is a leaf spring or a flat elastic element. Particularly advantageous is an elastic element having an elastic stiffness of 100 cN / mm to 400 cN / mm, but preferably 200 cN / mm to 350 cN / mm, in the height direction of the settling plate. This elastic stiffness is so large that an elastic force of 20 cN to 100 cN can be applied in the direction of the settling plate height using the possible elastic stroke. A particularly advantageous feature is an elastic element having, at least one portion of its longitudinal extension, a height in the settling plate height direction that is greater than its width in the settling plate width direction.

[0017] If the first sub-element is an elastic element, and the settling plate includes a limiting element that is adapted to limit the elastic deformation of the elastic element such that when the maximum elastic deformation of the elastic element is reached, the limiting element stops at the second sub-element and / or elastic element of the action pair, further advantages are obtained. When the limiting element stops at the second sub-element or elastic element, the limiting element acts as a stop and prevents further deformation of the elastic element. Advantageously, the limiting element is rigid, and therefore does not yield like the elastic element. Particularly advantageous is a limiting element whose stiffness in the settling plate height direction is at least twice, but preferably at least five times, the elastic stiffness of the elastic element in the settling plate height direction. Further advantages are obtained if the limiting element has a stiffness of at least 400 cN / mm, but preferably at least 1000 cN / mm, in the settling plate height direction. Advantageously, the limiting element is an arm that connects to a rod in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate at the front end of the settling plate in the protruding region of the settling plate. Advantageously, the elastic element overlaps with the limiting element in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate. This limiting element prevents the elastic element from overloading and thus from failing. It also limits the force that can be applied to the settling plate through the action pair.

[0018] It is also advantageous to have a settling plate in which the leg includes at least one tapering section in the height and / or width direction of the settling plate. Therefore, the height of the tapering section in the height direction and / or the width in the width direction of the settling plate is smaller than the area of ​​the leg adjacent to the tapering section. It is also advantageous to have a leg whose height in the height direction of the settling plate is smaller than its width in the width direction of the settling plate. Particularly advantageous is that, moving forward in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate, a guide region connects to the tapering region, the guide region being greater in the height direction of the settling plate than the tapering section and in contact with the second sub-element of the actuating pair (preferably the contact surface of a needle carrier or annular guide). Legs including a dirt scraper provide an additional advantage, the dirt scraper having a concave opening on one side in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate. Advantageously, a dirt scraper has a sharp edge at at least one outlet of the concave recess, the edge having an angle of less than 30° relative to the adjacent surface of the leg. The dirt scraper reduces the accumulation of dirt, such as abrasive fibers, in the operating area of ​​the settling plate.

[0019] The objective of this invention is also achieved by a knitting apparatus having the following features:

[0020] -Needle carrier—preferably a knitting cylinder—carries at least one knitting needle during knitting operations.

[0021] - Sinking plate carrier—preferably a sinking plate ring—the sinking plate carrier carries at least one sinking plate during the knitting operation, the at least one sinking plate interacting with the at least one knitting needle during the knitting operation, and the rod portion of the sinking plate extending substantially in the longitudinal direction of the sinking plate.

[0022] -The settling plate includes a rod portion that extends primarily in the longitudinal direction of the settling plate.

[0023] - wherein the rod has at least one loop-forming device at its front end along the longitudinal direction of the sinker plate of the rod, the at least one loop-forming device being in contact with the yarn during knitting operation and participating in loop formation.

[0024] - Wherein, the at least one looping device is a holding edge for holding the freshly knitted fabric.

[0025] Furthermore, in the knitting method, when the loop is held, the loop-forming force acts at the holding edge of the sinker, and the loop-forming force acts upward in the height direction of the sinker.

[0026] Furthermore, it has at least one actuating joint by means of which a downward force acting in the height direction of the sinker can be applied to the sinker, the height direction of which extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the sinker. The at least one actuating joint includes at least one first sub-element—preferably an elastic element—and at least one second sub-element, wherein the first sub-element and / or the second sub-element is preferably an elastic element, and wherein the sinker can be pre-tensioned in the knitting apparatus in the height direction of the sinker by means of the force that can be applied by the actuating joint, in order to balance the loop-forming force. The at least one first sub-element is a component of the at least one sinker, while the at least one second sub-element is a component of the rest of the knitting apparatus. Therefore, the second sub-element can advantageously be a component of a needle carrier, a sinker carrier, or a sinker triangle. Sinker triangles are commonly present in such knitting apparatuses, or advantageously, each embodiment of the invention is provided with such sinker triangles. The at least one sinker is engaged in such a sinker triangle. The sinker triangle is suitable for driving the at least one sinker to perform alternating knitting motions in the longitudinal direction of the sinker.

[0027] Common knitting devices have multiple sinkers. According to the present invention, the first sub-elements of each sinker are not functionally connected to each other. Instead, each sinker is associated with a first sub-element, and the first sub-element works independently with the sinker associated with the first sub-element.

[0028] Advantageously, the rod portion of the sinker has at least one sliding base surface, wherein the sliding base surface extends in the longitudinal direction of the sinker portion and in the width direction of the sinker portion extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the sinker portion, and downwardly restricts the extension of the rod portion in the height direction of the sinker portion extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the sinker portion and in the width direction of the sinker portion, and is provided such that the sinker portion can slide on the sliding base surface during knitting operation. Advantageously, a force that can be applied by the action pair (i.e., the first sub-element and the second sub-element) acts on the protruding area of ​​the sinker portion, the protruding area comprising at least one looping device and the front area of ​​the rod portion of the sinker portion, the protruding area comprising 5-30%, but preferably 10-20%, of the longitudinal extension of the rod portion of the sinker portion. Particularly advantageously, the first sub-element—preferably an elastic element—is connected to or in contact with the sinker portion. All the features of the sinker portion described in the preceding paragraphs of this patent application are also advantageous for the sinker portion of the knitting device. Advantageously, the needle carrier includes or is connected to a mating element. Particularly advantageously, the mating element is arranged in the annular guide of the knitting cylinder, the sinker carrier, or the sinker triangle.

[0029] Advantageously, the first sub-element and / or the second sub-element have a contact surface that forms an inclination angle with the longitudinal direction of the sinker. The contact surface is in contact with the sub-element of the action pair, which forms an action pair with the sub-element including the contact surface, at least during one phase of the knitting motion. The contact can advantageously be point-like, line-like, or surface-like. In particular, surface-like contact achieves a uniform load distribution at both sub-elements and thus improves the service life of the knitting device. The inclination angle of the contact surface is greater than 0 degrees at least at one location of its longitudinal extension in the longitudinal direction of the sinker. Advantageously, the contact surface has at least one sub-face that forms an inclination angle with the longitudinal direction of the sinker. The contact surface may extend in the longitudinal direction of the sinker in the region adjacent to the sub-face, i.e., without forming an inclination angle with the longitudinal direction of the sinker. The inclination angle may also be different at different locations on the sub-face. Advantageously, the inclination angle is the same at every location on the sub-face. Particularly advantageous is that the inclination angle of the sub-face has a gradient along its longitudinal extension in the longitudinal direction of the sinker, i.e., it increases or decreases (continuously) along the longitudinal extension of the sub-face. Further advantages are obtained if the contact surface has at least two sub-faces that enclose the longitudinal direction of the sinker with an inclination angle greater than 0 degrees. In the region adjacent to the sub-faces, particularly in the region arranged between the at least two sub-faces along the longitudinal direction of the sinker, the contact surface can advantageously extend in the longitudinal direction of the sinker, i.e., it does not enclose the longitudinal direction of the sinker with an inclination angle (this inclination angle is equal to zero). Advantageously, the contact surface has at least two sub-faces that enclose the longitudinal direction of the sinker with inclination angles of varying sizes. It is also advantageous that the intersecting edges of the contact surface in the LH plane, which is opened by the longitudinal and height directions of the sinker, have a constant radius around a central axis extending in the width direction of the sinker. Typically, the sinker undergoes a knitting movement in the longitudinal direction of the sinker in a knitting device. Advantageously, at least one of the two sub-elements, acting in conjunction with the inclined contact surface, performs a vertical movement in the sinker height direction during the knitting motion of the sinker, so as to maintain a permanent connection with the contact surface during the knitting motion. This is particularly advantageous in the case of an elastic element that generates an elastic force through this vertical movement. Advantageously, the contact surface is at least a partial section of the knitting cylinder or sinker triangle that points downward in the sinker height direction.

[0030] Additional advantages are obtained if the inclination angle of the contact surface and / or the sub-faces of the contact surface is 0.5 to 22 degrees, but preferably 2 to 10 degrees. The aforementioned range of choices has proven particularly advantageous in knitting devices with sinkers of common sizes.

[0031] Advantageously, the sinker can occupy at least two positions in the knitting apparatus during the knitting movement of the sinker, in which the force exerted on the sinker by the action side effect is not equal. In these at least two positions, the sinker is protruded forward to varying degrees in the longitudinal direction of the sinker. Advantageously, the force exerted on the sinker by the action side effect is greater in the first position than in the second position, wherein the sinker is protruded forward to a greater extent in the longitudinal direction of the sinker in the first position than in the second position. The front of the sinker in the longitudinal direction is such that the front end of the sinker also points in this direction, and in the knitting apparatus, the front end of the sinker points toward the needle carrier. If the first sub-element and / or the second sub-element is an elastic element, it is advantageous that in these at least two positions, the elastic element elastically bends to varying degrees in the height direction of the sinker.

[0032] Advantageously, the force in the gripped position of the sinker is 40 cN to 100 cN, but preferably 50 cN to 70 cN, wherein the sinker extends forward to the maximum extent in the longitudinal direction of the sinker toward the needle carrier in the gripped position. In the gripped position, the coiling force acting upward in the height direction of the sinker is typically maximum, and this coiling force acts on the sinker via the coiling element during coiling. If the sinker force in the gripped position is within the selected range mentioned above, upward offset movement of the sinker in the height direction is prevented in this position, and thus non-uniformity in the coil structure is prevented.

[0033] Particularly advantageously, the first sub-element and / or the second sub-element are elastic elements that exhibit the strongest elastic deformation in the gripping position of the settling plate. Preferably, the elastic element exhibits the strongest elastic deformation in the height direction of the settling plate in the gripping position.

[0034] Further advantages are obtained if the second sub-element is either part of or located within the sinker triangle. In this case, it is particularly advantageous that the first sub-element is an elastic element arranged in the longitudinal direction of the sinker at the rod portion between the drive foot and the extension area of ​​the sinker. Advantageously, the second sub-element, either part of or located within the sinker triangle, is a contact surface that is in contact with the elastic element at least during a phase of the knitting operation, wherein the elastic element elastically deforms in the height direction of the sinker upon contact with the contact surface.

[0035] The objective of this invention is also achieved by a knitting method having the following characteristics:

[0036] - At least one knitting needle performs a knitting motion in which the needle (primarily) moves alternately along the needle longitudinal direction, which extends along the needle bar.

[0037] - At least one sinker performs a knitting motion in which the sinker (primarily) moves alternately along the longitudinal direction of the sinker's bar—the longitudinal direction of the sinker—

[0038] - wherein the rod has at least one loop-forming device at its front end along the longitudinal direction of the sinker plate of the rod, the at least one loop-forming device being in contact with the yarn during knitting operation and participating in loop formation.

[0039] - Wherein, the at least one looping device is a holding edge for holding the freshly knitted fabric.

[0040] -And wherein, when the loop is held, the loop-forming force acts at the holding edge of the sinker, the loop-forming force acting upward in the height direction of the sinker, wherein, additionally, the at least one sinker is loaded with a force acting downward in the height direction of the sinker by the combined action of the first and second sub-elements of the action pair at least during one phase of the sinker's knitting movement, the sinker's height direction extending perpendicular to the sinker's longitudinal direction, wherein the first and / or the second sub-elements are preferably elastic elements, and wherein, the sinker is pre-tensioned in the knitting device in the sinker's height direction by means of the applied force of the action pair in order to balance the loop-forming force. The first and second sub-elements are connected to each other such that the first and second sub-elements form an action pair by means of which force can be applied. The knitting movement of the needle occurs in the needle's longitudinal direction, but may also have directional components in other spatial directions, which may be caused by needle deformation or manufacturing inaccuracies. The knitting motion of the sinker extends in the longitudinal direction of the sinker, but may also have directional components in other spatial directions, which are caused by deformation or manufacturing inaccuracies of the sinker. The second sub-element is preferably matched with a needle carrier, a sinker carrier, or a sinker triangle.

[0041] Further advantages are obtained if the force increases at least during one phase of the knitting motion of the sinker—preferably toward the at least one looping device. If the first sub-element and / or the second sub-element are elastic elements, the elastic elements advantageously undergo increasingly stronger elastic deformation in the sinker height direction as the sinker protrudes, at least during that phase of the knitting motion of the sinker.

[0042] Another advantageous knitting method involves the first sub-element and / or the second sub-element being elastic elements in the height direction. In this method, the elastic element undergoes elastic deformation in the height direction of the sinker due to the forward knitting movement of the sinker in the longitudinal direction of the sinker and through contact with the first or second sub-element, thereby applying an elastic force in the height direction of the sinker. Advantageously, the sub-element that is not an elastic element has a contact surface along which the elastic element slides during the knitting movement of the sinker. Advantageously, the elastic element remains in contact with the contact surface. Particularly advantageously, the contact surface mates with a needle carrier (preferably a knitting cylinder), a sinker carrier, or a sinker triangle. In an advantageous embodiment, the first sub-element is an elastic element on the sinker, and the second sub-element is a contact surface along which the elastic element slides during the knitting movement of the sinker. In another advantageous embodiment, the first sub-element is the contact surface at the sinker, while the second sub-element is an elastic element that slides along the contact surface during the knitting motion of the sinker. In yet another advantageous embodiment, both the first and second sub-element are elastic elements that slide relative to each other during the knitting motion of the sinker. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 A knitting apparatus 14 is shown, comprising a needle carrier 15, knitting needles 16, a sinker carrier 17, and a sinker 1, wherein the sinker 1 includes an elastic element 22.

[0044] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 Detail A: The reaction element 18 is a contact surface 31 arranged at the needle carrier 15, which is inclined at an angle 20 with the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate.

[0045] Figure 3 The needle carrier 15 and the sinker 1 are shown. In the protruding area 8 of the sinker, a gripping edge 3, a sliding surface 9, an elastic element 22 and a limiting element 38 are arranged.

[0046] Figure 4 The needle carrier 15 and the settling plate 1 are shown, which, in addition to Figure 1 In addition to the settling plate 1, it also includes the uncircling edge 24 and the second sliding surface 9.

[0047] Figure 5 A settling plate 1 with an elastic element 22 is shown, the elastic element including a leg 11 with a tapered section 13.

[0048] Figure 6 Needle carrier 15 and Figure 5The sinker 1, which is together with the needle carrier 15 during the knitting operation, wherein the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation in the height direction H of the sinker.

[0049] Figure 7 The needle carrier 15 and the settling plate 1 with an elastic element 22 are shown, wherein the elastic element 22 is a single component connected to the settling plate 1 in a shape-fitting manner.

[0050] Figure 8 A settling plate 1 with an elastic element 22 and a needle carrier 15 are shown. The elastic element includes a dirt scraper 25. The needle carrier is functionally connected to the settling plate 1.

[0051] Figure 9 Show Figure 8 The needle carrier 15 has a contact surface 31, which includes a first sub-surface 43 and a second sub-surface 44.

[0052] Figure 10 A knitting device 14 with a sinker 1 is shown, the sinker including an elastic element 22 arranged at the rear end of the bar 2 in the longitudinal direction L.

[0053] Figure 11 A knitting device 14 with a sinker 1 is shown, the sinker including an elastic element 22 arranged in the longitudinal direction L between the drive foot 28 and the extension area 8. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Figure 1A knitting apparatus 14 is shown, comprising a needle carrier 15, a sinker carrier 17, a sinker triangle 33, and a sinker 1. The sinker 1 has a bar portion 2 that extends substantially in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker and is arranged in a groove 21 of the sinker carrier 17. At the leading end of the sinker 1 along the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, a loop-forming device 3 in the form of a gripping edge 10 and a first sub-element 6 in the form of an elastic element 22 are arranged. The needle carrier 15 carries a knitting needle 16, the shank portion 23 of which extends in the needle longitudinal direction N. In this embodiment, the needle longitudinal direction N points substantially in the sinker height direction H and thus extends perpendicular to the sinker longitudinal direction L. In other embodiments according to the teachings of the invention, the needle longitudinal direction N may also enclose the sinker longitudinal direction L at an angle of less than or greater than 90 degrees. The teachings of the invention can be advantageously applied at all conceivable angles between the needle longitudinal direction N and the sinker longitudinal direction L. The sinker 1 rests against the sinker carrier 17 with its bottom sliding surface 4 and is able to slide back and forth on the sinker carrier 17 during its alternating knitting movement in the sinker longitudinal direction L, driven by the sinker triangle 33. In the position shown, the sinker 1 is in its gripping position, i.e., extended as far as possible toward the needle carrier 15. During this knitting movement of the sinker 1, the elastic element 22 is in contact with the second sub-element 18 of the actuating pair—in this case, the contact surface 31 with the needle carrier 15. The position of the sinker 1 in the sinker longitudinal direction L relative to the other components of the knitting device 14 during its knitting movement can be described in more detail using the extension 36, which is the distance between the front side 19 of the sinker 1 and the edge 37 of the sinker carrier 17 in the sinker longitudinal direction L.

[0055] Figure 2 Show Figure 1Detail A: The contact surface 31 is inclined at an angle 20 relative to the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, such that the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation through contact with the contact surface 31 during the knitting motion of the sinker 1 in the longitudinal direction L, thereby applying a force 7 pointing in the height direction H of the sinker 1 onto the sinker 1. The driving force required for this action in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker is applied to the sinker 1 by the sinker triangle 33. Due to the inclination angle 20 of the contact surface 31, the elastic element 22 undergoes increasingly stronger elastic deformation in the height direction H of the sinker in one stage as the extension 36 of the sinker 1 increases, thus the action pair applies force 7 to the sinker 1, which increases with the extension 36 of the sinker 1. Force 7 acts at the contact point between the elastic element 22 and the contact surface 31. Force 7 acts on the sinker 1 perpendicular to the contact surface 31. Therefore, force 7 has a longitudinal component 26 pointing in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker and a height component 27 pointing in the height direction H of the sinker, wherein the height component 27 is greater than the longitudinal component 26. As a result of force 7, the sinker 1 is pressed downward in the height direction H of the sinker, so that the sinker abuts against the upper side of the needle carrier 15 with its sliding surface 9 during the knitting movement.

[0056] Figure 3 An embodiment of the needle carrier 15 and sinker 1 is shown, with a rod 2 extending in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker. The rod has a loop-forming device 3 in the form of a gripping edge 10 at its front end 5 along the longitudinal direction L. During knitting, the sinker 1 uses the gripping edge 10 to hold the loop at the needle shank, while the needle knits upwards in the needle longitudinal direction. In the protruding region 8 of the sinker 1, including the front end 5 and the gripping edge 10, a first sub-element 6 in the form of an elastic element 22 is arranged. The elastic element 22 is shown in two different states: a outline with solid lines indicates the elastic element 22 in a fully unloaded, i.e., undeformed state. This corresponds to the state of the elastic element outside the knitting device. This outline is also shown as if it were in front of the needle carrier 15 shown in section, although this is not actually the case.

[0057] In contrast, the outlined with dashed lines indicates the elastic element 22 in an operating position where the sinker is maximally extended. Therefore, the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation in the sinker height direction H. The elastic element occupies this state or operating position at least during the knitting phase of the knitting apparatus. The elastic element 22, together with the second sub-element 18 in the actuating pair, is adapted to apply force 7, which acts downward on the sinker 1 in the sinker height direction H. In this embodiment, the second sub-element 18 includes a contact surface 31 of the needle carrier 15, with which the elastic element 22 is in contact during the knitting movement, and is arranged such that the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation in the sinker height direction H. The contact surface 31 has a sub-surface 39 at its rear end in the sinker longitudinal direction L (towards the sinker carrier), the sub-surface forming an angle with the sinker longitudinal direction L. Here, the tilt angle varies along the longitudinal extension of the sub-face 39 in the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate such that the intersecting edges of the sub-faces 39 in the LH plane have a radius 40 that remains constant around the central axis 41 at each location, and the intersecting edges are therefore partially circular. The limiting element 38 is in contact with the contact surface 31 and prevents the settling plate 1 from moving further upward in the settling plate height direction H, so that the elastic element 22 cannot exceed Figure 3 The elastic deformation state shown in the figure further undergoes elastic deformation. Therefore, the limiting element restricts the deformation stroke of the elastic element 22. Thus, in the state shown by the dashed line, the elastic element 22 is in a state in which the elastic element has reached its maximum deformation experienced during operation. In this case, due to elastic deformation, a force 7 is applied to the sinker 1 by the action pair. The force 7 is the largest (greater than in other operating states) in the maximum deformation state shown by the dashed line of the elastic element 22. At the rear end 32 of the rod in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, the rod 2 has a drive foot 28. During the knitting operation, the drive foot 28 is adapted to engage with the sinker triangle to drive the sinker 1 to perform a knitting motion, wherein the knitting motion is an alternating motion that extends substantially in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker. During this knitting motion, the sinker can slide on the sinker carrier on the sliding base surface 4, which limits the rod downward in the sinker height direction H. For better clarity, the sinker triangle and the sinker carrier are not shown. The sliding surface 9 is part of the sliding base surface 4 and overlaps with the elastic element 22 in the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate. In the height direction H of the settling plate, the sliding surface points in the same direction as the force 7 applied to the settling plate 1 by the action pair. The surface normal of the sliding surface 9 also points in this direction.

[0058] In a knitting apparatus, it is feasible to support the force 7 that can be applied by the action pair through the contact between the sliding surface 9 and the needle carrier 15.

[0059] Figure 4 Another embodiment of the needle carrier 15 and sinker 1 is shown. The elastic element 22 is shown in two different states: the outline with solid lines indicates (again, in the "foreground" before the cut view of the needle carrier 15) that the elastic element 22 is in a fully unloaded, i.e., undeformed state. This corresponds to the state of the elastic element outside the knitting device.

[0060] In contrast, the outlined with dashed lines indicates the elastic element 22 in its operating position, where it undergoes elastic deformation in the sinker height direction H. The elastic element occupies this state at least during the knitting motion phase of the knitting apparatus. Figure 3 Unlike the settling plate 1, sub-surface 39 is not partially circular, but rather has a constant angle of inclination with the longitudinal direction L at each point of its longitudinal extension along the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate. Therefore, sub-surface 39 is a flat surface that forms an angle with the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate. Except for... Figure 3 In addition to the features of the sinker 1, the sinker 1 also additionally has a loop-forming device 3 in the form of a loop-removing edge 24, a restraining element 38, and an additional sliding surface 9, which are arranged in the protruding area 8 of the sinker 1. The loop-removing edge 24 is used during knitting operation to remove the resulting knitted fabric from the needles. The holding edge 10 and the loop-removing edge 24 together form a throat 34, which is arranged in the protruding area 8 of the sinker 1. The sliding surface 9 rests against the upper side of the needle carrier 15 and orients the sinker 1 in its protruding area 8 in the sinker height direction H, in such a way that the sinker is pressed against the upper side of the needle carrier 15 by the force 7 applied to the sinker 1 by the action pairs 6 and 18. Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, the elastic element 22 is depicted in its elastically deformed state as shown by dashed lines. In this state, the elastic deformation achievable during knitting operation due to the position of the sinker has reached its maximum value. The restraining element 38 stops at the contact surface 31 (of the second sub-element 18) and thus prevents further deformation of the elastic element 22 beyond the shown elastic deformation state (dashed outline). In the event of a brief peak load acting on the elastic element 22, the restraining element prevents overload of the elastic element 22. Without such a restraining element 38, the elastic element 22 might plastically deform or even break under excessively large peak loads, requiring the entire sinker 1 to be replaced in order to continue knitting operation without failure.

[0061] Figure 5Another embodiment of the sinker 1 is shown, having a rod portion 2, a gripping edge 10, a release edge 24, and a sliding base surface 4. The protruding region 8 of the sinker 1 includes a sliding surface 9 and a first sub-element 6 in the form of an elastic element 22. The elastic element 22 includes a leg 11 formed by an indentation 12 into the rod portion 2 of the sinker 1. The indentation 12 extends in the longitudinal direction L and the height direction H of the sinker and completely passes through the sinker 1 in the width direction B. The leg 11 includes a tapered section 13, in which the leg 11 tapers in the height direction H of the sinker. By means of the tapered section 13, the elastic stiffness of the elastic element 22 can be reduced such that, in conjunction with the second sub-element 18 of the actuating pair, it is adjusted to the elastic force required for the knitting process. It is also advantageous for all embodiments according to the teachings of the invention that the leg 11 tapers in the width direction B within the tapered section 13. Moving forward along the longitudinal direction L, the guide region 35 connects to the tapered section 13. The height of the guide region 35 in the sinker height direction H is greater than that of the tapered section 13 and is spaced apart from the sliding surface 9 by a net dimension 42 in the sinker height direction H. The guide region 35 is adapted to contact components of the knitting apparatus—such as the needle carrier—during knitting operation, and the elastic element 22 is guided along the second sub-element 18 of the actuating pair—such as the contact surface.

[0062] To clarify the mechanism of action, Figure 5 In the sedimentation plate 1 Figure 6 As shown together with the needle carrier 15: During the knitting motion of the sinker 1 in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, the sinker 1 moves back and forth on the needle carrier 15.

[0063] Here, the sinker 1 slides on the needle carrier 15 with its sliding surface 9. The needle carrier 15 includes a second sub-element 18 having a contact surface 31, which is in contact with the elastic element 22 of the sinker 1. The second sub-element 18 has a net dimension 42 in the sinker height direction H that is larger than the cut-in portion 12 of the sinker 1 in the sinker height direction H (see [link]). Figure 5The height is greater. Therefore, during the knitting movement of the sinker 1, the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation through contact with the contact surface 31 of the mating element 18 in the sinker height direction H. Here, in the contact area perpendicular to the contact surface 31, the force 7 acts on the sinker 1, which "presses" downward in the sinker height direction H, thereby ensuring that the sinker 1 is permanently resting against the upper side of the needle carrier 15 with the sliding surface 9 during the knitting operation. In addition, the contact surface 31 includes a first sub-surface 43 and a second sub-surface 44, which are respectively inclined at angles relative to the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, wherein the first inclination angle 45 between the first sub-surface 43 and the longitudinal direction L of the sinker is greater than the second inclination angle 46 between the second sub-surface 44 and the longitudinal direction L of the sinker. The contact surface 31 extends in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker between the first and second sub-surfaces 43, 44. Therefore, during the forward extension movement of the sinker 1 in the longitudinal direction L (towards the needle carrier 15), the force 7 is obtained as described below: In the fully retracted state (the sinker retracts as far backward as possible in the longitudinal direction during its knitting motion), the sinker 1 initially does not contact the elastic element 22, which does not apply force 7. During the extension movement of the sinker 1, the elastic element 22 contacts the first sub-surface 43, and here elastically deforms due to the inclination of the first sub-surface 43 and the first tilt angle 45, thereby applying a force 7 through the action pair composed of the contact surface 31 and the elastic element 22. This force increases as the sinker 1 extends further until the elastic element 22 contacts the section of the contact surface 31 arranged between the first and second sub-surfaces 43, 44 extending in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker. During the contact of the elastic element 22 with this section, the applied force 7 is constant and maximum (the maximum force commonly found in knitting operations). As the settling plate 1 continues to extend, the elastic element 22 comes into contact with the second sub-surface 44, and due to its inclined orientation at an angle of 46, the applied force 7 decreases as the settling plate 1 extends further.

[0064] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the needle carrier 15 and the sinker plate 1 is shown, the sinker plate having a rod portion 2, a gripping edge 10, a release edge 24, a sliding base surface 4, and a sliding surface 9. A force element 6, in the form of an elastic element 22, is a single component that is engagedly connected to the rod portion 2 of the sinker plate 1. Also as... Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown in the diagram, the elastic element 22 is depicted in two different states: a solid outline indicates (again, in the "foreground" before the cutaway view of the needle carrier 15) the elastic element 22 in a fully unloaded, i.e., undeformed state. This corresponds to the state of the elastic element outside the knitting apparatus. In contrast, a dashed outline indicates the elastic element 22 in its operating position, in which it elastically deforms in the sinker height direction H. The elastic element occupies either this state or the operating position, at least during the knitting motion phase of the knitting apparatus. The elastic element 22 includes a connecting structure 29 that shaped-fits into the connecting portion 30 of the rod 2. The connecting portion 30 is a void in the rod 2 of the sinker 1, the outline of which corresponds to the outline of the connecting structure 29 of the elastic element 22 in the LH plane, which is opened by the longitudinal direction L and the height direction H of the sinker, and passes through the rod in the width direction B of the sinker. During the knitting operation, this implementation of the sinker 1 differs from other aspects in terms of the function of the sinker. Figure 4 The sinker 1 is consistent with the sinker plate 1. The elastic element 22 is in contact with the contact surface 31 of the needle carrier 15 and forms an action pair with the contact surface 31. During the knitting operation, this action pair applies a downward force 7 in the sinker plate height direction H to the sinker plate. Here, the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation (dashed outline). Figure 4 Unlike the settling plate 1 shown, the limiting element 38 does not contact the contact surface 31. Further elastic deformation of the elastic element 22 beyond its elastic deformation state shown by the dashed line is possible. In the event of further elastic deformation of the elastic element 22, in this embodiment, the elastic element 22, having reached its maximum elastic deformation state, contacts the limiting element 38 with its tip. This contact prevents further deformation of the elastic element 22 by means of the limiting element 38.

[0065] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the settling plate 1 is shown, which has a rod portion 2, a gripping edge 10, a release edge 24, a sliding base surface 4, a sliding surface 9, and an elastic element 22, the elastic element 22 including a leg 11 with a tapered section 13. Also as... Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7As shown in the diagram, the elastic element 22 is depicted in two different states: a solid outline indicates the elastic element 22 in a fully unloaded, i.e., undeformed state. This corresponds to the state of the elastic element outside the knitting apparatus. In this state, the elastic element 22 is shown in the foreground and partially obscures the needle carrier 15. Conversely, a dashed outline indicates the elastic element 22 in its operating position, in which it elastically deforms in the sinker height direction H. The elastic element occupies either this state or the operating position, at least during the knitting phase of the knitting apparatus. The elastic element 22 is formed by an indentation 12 into the rod portion 2 of the sinker 1. A dirt scraper 25 is arranged at the support leg 11, which is adapted to remove dirt—such as fiber residue or dust—that can accumulate in the area of ​​the elastic element 22 during knitting operations. The dirt scraper is a concave opening in the support leg 11, which limits at least a portion of the support leg 11 on one side in the longitudinal direction L. Therefore, the dirt scraper 25 is open on one side in the longitudinal direction L. During knitting operation, this implementation of the settling plate 1 differs from other aspects in its functional manner. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The sedimentation plates in the middle are basically consistent with those in the middle.

[0066] During the knitting process, the sinker 1 and the needle carrier 15 are in functional connection. Figure 8 The needle carrier 15 in Figure 9 The image is magnified and shown without the sinker 1. The needle carrier 15 has a second sub-element 18, which includes a contact surface 31. During knitting operation, the elastic element 22 forms an action pair with the contact surface 31, by means of which force 7 can be applied to the sinker 1. For this purpose, the elastic element 22 can undergo elastic deformation during knitting operation—in Figure 8 The image shows the state where the elastic element 22 is in contact with the contact surface 31 and undergoes elastic deformation, indicated by dashed lines. The contact surface 31 includes a first sub-surface 43 and a second sub-surface 44, wherein the second sub-surface 44 is connected to the first sub-surface 43 in the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate along the protruding direction (viewed from the settling plate 1 towards the needle carrier 15). Figure 8 In the illustration, the second sub-face is shown covered behind the elastic element 22 (with a solid outline) in its unloaded state, wherein the covered edge of the second sub-face 44 is shown by a dashed line. However, in Figure 9The precise outline of the second sub-face 44 is clearly shown. The first sub-face 43 encloses a first tilt angle 45 relative to the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, while the second sub-face 44 encloses a second tilt angle 46 relative to the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, wherein the first tilt angle 45 is greater than the second tilt angle 46. In this way, during the knitting operation, when the elastic element 22 is in contact with the first sub-face 43, the force 7 applied by the action pair initially increases strongly at the start of the ejection movement of the sinker 1. Subsequently, when the elastic element 22 is in contact with the second sub-face 44, the force 7 increases further with the increase of the ejection of the sinker 1. However, since the second tilt angle 46 of the second sub-face 44 is smaller, the increase in force 7 at the start of the ejection movement is not as strong as when in contact with the first sub-face 45 (with the larger first tilt angle 45). Therefore, as large a force 7 as possible is applied at an early point in the extension movement to stabilize and accurately position the settling plate 1 during its extension movement, but not to generate an unnecessarily large force 7 at a later point in the extension movement.

[0067] Figure 10 Another embodiment of the knitting apparatus 14 is shown, which has a needle carrier 15, a sinker triangle 33, and a sinker carrier 17 that carries the sinker 1. For clarity, the knitting needle 16 is not shown. The sinker 1 has a rod 2 that extends substantially in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, and a loop-forming device 3 in the form of a gripping edge 10 is arranged at the front end 5 of the rod in the longitudinal direction L. At the rear end 32 of the rod opposite the front end 5 in the longitudinal direction L, the rod 2 has a first sub-element 6 in the form of an elastic element 22 of an action pair. The elastic element 22 is in contact with a second sub-element 18, which is associated with the sinker carrier 17. The elastic element 22 and the second sub-element 18 form an action pair by which a force 7 can be applied to the sinker 1. Similar to the embodiment described above, the elastic element 22 can therefore undergo elastic deformation during the knitting operation. The sliding surface 9 is a component of the sliding base surface 4 and is pressed against the upper side of the settlement plate carrier 17 by the force 7, thereby orienting the settlement plate 1 in the settlement plate height direction.

[0068] Figure 11Another embodiment of the knitting apparatus 14 is shown, which has a needle carrier 15 and a sinker carrier 17 that carries sinkers 1. The sinker 1 is arranged in a slot 21 of the sinker carrier 17. For clarity, the knitting needle 16 is not shown. The sinker 1 has a protruding region 8, which includes a looping device 3 in the form of a gripping edge 10. At the rear end 32 of the rod 2, opposite the front end 5 in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, the rod 2 has a driving foot 28 that engages with the sinker triangle 33 of the knitting apparatus 14. For this purpose, the driving foot 28 extends upward in the sinker height direction H beyond the adjacent region of the rod 2. The sinker triangle 33, through contact with the driving foot 28, drives the sinker 1 to perform knitting motion in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, thereby allowing the sinker 1 to slide back and forth on the sinker carrier 17 in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker with its sliding base 4. In the longitudinal direction L of the sinker, between the driving foot 28 and the extension area 8, a first sub-element 6 in the form of an elastic element 22 is arranged at the rod 2. The first sub-element extends upward beyond the adjacent area of ​​the rod 2 in the height direction H of the sinker. The elastic element 22 is in contact with a second sub-element 18, which is associated with the sinker triangle 33 of the knitting device 14. The second sub-element 18 is oriented such that the elastic element 22 undergoes elastic deformation in the height direction H of the sinker during knitting. In this embodiment, the second sub-element 18 is a contact surface 31 that extends flatly in the longitudinal direction L of the sinker and is rigid in the height direction H of the sinker. The elastic element 22 and the contact surface 31 form a pair of action by which a force 7 is applied downward to the sinker 1 in the height direction H of the sinker. The sliding surface 9 is part of the sliding base surface 4 and is pressed against the upper side of the settling plate carrier 17 by force 7, thereby orienting the settling plate 1 in the settling plate height direction H. In other advantageous embodiments, the contact surface 31 may be inclined at an angle greater than 0 degrees with the longitudinal direction L of the settling plate.

[0069] List of reference numerals

[0070] 1 settling sheet

[0071] 2. Rod part of the settling plate (1)

[0072] 3. Coiled Devices

[0073] 4. Sliding base surface

[0074] 5. Front end of rod (2)

[0075] 6. First sub-element of the functional pair

[0076] 7 Force

[0077] 8. Extend out of the region

[0078] 9. Sliding surface

[0079] 10. Hold the edge

[0080] 11 legs

[0081] 12 to the cutting part in the rod (2)

[0082] 13. Gradually narrowing section

[0083] 14 Knitting apparatus

[0084] 15-needle carrier

[0085] 16 knitting needles

[0086] 17 Settlement plate carrier

[0087] 18. Second sub-element of the functional pair

[0088] 19. Anterior side of the settling plate (1)

[0089] 20° tilt angle

[0090] 21 slots

[0091] 22 Elastic elements

[0092] 23. The shank of the knitting needle (16)

[0093] 24. On the verge of going off the rails

[0094] 25 Scraper

[0095] 26 longitudinal components of force (7)

[0096] 27. Height component of force (7)

[0097] 28 sinking plates (1) driving foot

[0098] 29 Connection Structure

[0099] 30 Connection parts

[0100] 31 Contact surface

[0101] 32. Rear end of rod (2)

[0102] 33 Settling Plate Triangle

[0103] 34. Throat

[0104] 35 Guiding Area

[0105] 36. Push out

[0106] 37. Edge of the settling plate carrier (17)

[0107] 38 limiting elements

[0108] 39 Sub-faces of contact surface (31)

[0109] 40 radius

[0110] 41. Central Axis

[0111] 42 Net dimensions

[0112] 43 The first sub-face of the contact surface (31)

[0113] 44 The second sub-face of the contact surface (31)

[0114] 45 First tilt angle

[0115] 46 Second tilt angle

[0116] B. Sinking plate width direction

[0117] H. Height direction of the settling plate

[0118] L-shaped sedimentation plate longitudinal direction

[0119] N needle longitudinal direction

Claims

1. A sinker (1) for use in a knitting machine, having the following characteristics: • Rod (2), which extends primarily in the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate, • in, The rod (2) has at least one loop-forming device (3) at its front end (5) along the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker plate of the rod. The at least one loop-forming device is in contact with the yarn during the knitting operation and participates in loop formation. • Wherein, the at least one looping device (3) is a holding edge (10) for holding the newly knitted fabric. • Wherein, the rod (2) has at least one sliding base surface (4), • Wherein, the sliding base surface (4) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and the width direction (B) of the sinker plate extending transversely to the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker plate of the rod (2), and restricts the extension of the rod (2) in the height direction (H) of the sinker plate extending transversely to the longitudinal direction (L) and the width direction (B) of the sinker plate of the rod, and is provided such that the sinker plate (1) can slide on the sliding base surface during the knitting operation. • Furthermore, in the knitting method, when the loop is held, the loop-forming force acts at the holding edge (10) of the sinker (1), and the loop-forming force acts upward in the height direction (H) of the sinker. Its features • The first sub-element (6) of the action pair for applying the force (7) in the sedimentation plate height direction (H) of the sedimentation plate (1), • And among them, The sinker (1) can be pre-tightened in the knitting device in the sinker height direction (H) by means of the force (7) that can be applied by the action pair, so as to balance the loop forming force.

2. The settling plate (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that... • The protruding area (8), which includes the front end (5) of the coiling device (3) and the rod (2), • The protruding area includes 10-50% of the longitudinal extension of the rod (2). • And the protruding region contains the first sub-element (6) of the functional pair.

3. The settling plate (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that... • At least one sliding surface (9), said at least one sliding surface being associated with the protruding region (8), • The at least one sliding surface extends along the width direction (B) and longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate of the rod (2). • And the surface normal of the at least one sliding surface on the sinking plate height direction (H) of the rod (2) points in the same direction as the force (7) that can be applied by the action pair.

4. The settling plate (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The at least one sliding surface (9) at least partially overlaps with the first sub-element (6).

5. The settling sheet (1) according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first sub-element (6) is an elastic element (22) including a leg (11) formed by a cut-in portion (12) into the rod portion (2), wherein the cut-in portion (12) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and the height direction (H) of the settling plate (1).

6. The settling plate (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outrigger (11) includes at least one section (13) that tapers in the direction of the settling plate height (H) and / or the direction of the settling plate width (B) of the rod (2).

7. The settling plate (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The active pair includes at least one elastic element (22).

8. The settling plate (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The protruding area includes 25-40% of the longitudinal extension of the rod (2).

9. A knitting device (14) having the following characteristics: • A needle carrier (15) that carries at least one knitting needle (16) during knitting operations. • A sinker carrier (17) that carries at least one sinker (1) during the knitting operation, the at least one sinker (1) working in conjunction with at least one knitting needle (16) during the knitting operation, and the rod (2) of the sinker extending substantially in the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker. • in, The settling plate includes a rod (2) that extends primarily in the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate. • Wherein, the rod (2) has at least one loop-forming device (3) at the front end (5) of the rod along the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker plate of the rod, the at least one loop-forming device being in contact with the yarn during the knitting operation and participating in loop formation. • Wherein, the at least one looping device (3) is a holding edge (10) for holding the newly knitted fabric. • Furthermore, in the knitting method, when the loop is held, the loop-forming force acts at the holding edge (10) of the sinker (1), and the loop-forming force acts upward in the height direction (H) of the sinker. Its features • At least one actuating pair, by means of which a force (7) acting downward in the height direction (H) of the sinker (1) is applied to the sinker (1) during the knitting operation, the height direction of the sinker extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker. • Wherein, the at least one functional pair includes at least one first sub-element (6) and at least one second sub-element (18), the at least one first sub-element being associated with the settling plate (1), and the at least one second sub-element being associated with one of the remaining elements of the knitting device (14). • And wherein the sinker (1) can be pre-tightened in the knitting device (14) in the sinker height direction (H) by means of the force (7) that can be applied by the action pair, so as to balance the loop forming force.

10. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first sub-element (6) and / or the second sub-element (18) have a contact surface (31) that encloses an inclination angle (20) with respect to the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate, wherein the inclination angle (20) of the contact surface (31) is greater than 0 degrees at at least one portion of its longitudinal extension in the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate.

11. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The tilt angle (20) of the contact surface (31) is 0.5 degrees to 22 degrees.

12. The knitting apparatus (14) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The sinker (1) can occupy at least two positions during the knitting motion of the sinker, and the force (7) exerted on the sinker (1) by the action side effect is not the same in the at least two positions.

13. The knitting apparatus (14) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The force (7) is 40 cN to 100 cN in the holding position of the settling plate (1), wherein the settling plate (1) extends forward to the maximum extent in the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate towards the needle carrier (15) in the holding position.

14. The knitting apparatus (14) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The first sub-element (6) and / or the second sub-element (18) are elastic elements (22) that are most elastically deformed in the gripping position of the settling plate (1).

15. The knitting apparatus (14) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that... A sinker triangle (33) is formed in which at least one sinker (1) is engaged, and the sinker triangle is adapted to drive the at least one sinker (1) to perform alternating knitting movements in the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker, wherein the second sub-element (18) is either a component of the sinker triangle (33) or disposed at the sinker triangle (33).

16. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The needle carrier (15) is a knitting cylinder.

17. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The settling plate carrier (17) is a settling plate ring.

18. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first sub-element (6) and / or the second sub-element (18) are elastic elements (22).

19. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The inclination angle (20) of the contact surface (31) is 2 to 10 degrees.

20. The knitting apparatus (14) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The force (7) is 50 cN to 70 cN in the gripping position of the settling plate (1).

21. Knitting methods have the following characteristics: • At least one needle (16) performs a knitting motion in which the needle (16) moves alternately along the needle longitudinal direction (N), which extends along the needle bar (23). • At least one settling plate (1) performs a knitting motion in which the settling plate (1) moves alternately along the longitudinal direction of the settling plate rod (2) and the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling plate. • in, The rod (2) has at least one loop-forming device (3) at its front end (5) along the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker plate of the rod. The at least one loop-forming device is in contact with the yarn during the knitting operation and participates in loop formation. • Wherein, the at least one looping device (3) is a holding edge (10) for holding the newly knitted fabric. • Furthermore, when the coil is held, the coiling force acts at the holding edge (10) of the settling plate (1), and the coiling force acts upward in the height direction (H) of the settling plate. Its features • The at least one sinker (1) is subjected to a downward force (7) in the height direction (H) of the sinker by the combined action of the first sub-element (6) and the second sub-element (18) of the action pair at least during a phase of the sinker's knitting motion, the height direction of the sinker extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) of the sinker. • And wherein the sinker (1) is pre-tightened in the knitting device (14) in the sinker height direction (H) by means of the force (7) applied by the pair of actions in order to balance the loop forming force.

22. The knitting method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The force (7) increases at least during one phase of the knitting motion of the sinker (1).

23. The knitting method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The first sub-element (6) and / or the second sub-element (18) are elastic elements (22) that are elastic in the height direction (H) of the settling sheet, and the elastic element (22) is elastically deformed in the height direction (H) of the settling sheet by the knitting motion of the settling sheet (1) in the longitudinal direction (L) of the settling sheet and by contact with the first sub-element (6) or the second sub-element (18), that is, the elastic element (22) applies an elastic force in the height direction (H) of the settling sheet.

24. The knitting method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The first sub-element (6) and / or the second sub-element (18) are elastic elements (22).

25. The knitting method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The force (7) increases at least during the phase in which the knitting motion of the sinker (1) is directed toward the at least one looping device (3).

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