Base with smaller footprint for circular weft knitting machine and associated circular knitting machine

Abstract

A base (100) for a circular weft knitting machine (M), which constitutes a contact point of the circular weft knitting machine on a support plane (F), comprises: an upper support element (4) on which a knitting assembly (200) of the knitting machine is mounted; at least three support legs (1, 2, 3) interposed between the upper support element and the bearing plane (F); a containing space (V) is defined by the base (1); at least three support legs (A1, A2, A3) connected to the upper support element in different and laterally spaced positions according to a coordinate circular sequence (1-2-3) about the central axis (R) in order to define between consecutive pairs of support legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) according to the coordinate circular sequence at least three openings (A1, A2, A3) allowing access to the accommodation space (V); the at least three openings comprise a main opening (A1) and at least two second openings (A2, A3), wherein a main width (W1) of the main opening is larger relative to a second width (W2, W3) of each second opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The object of the present invention is to provide a foundation for a circular weft knitting machine. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a foundation for a circular weft knitting machine which is provided with a small footprint, in particular a small planar footprint.

[0002] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular weft knitting machine comprising the base having a small footprint. Background Art

[0003] As is well known, circular weft knitting machines are used to facilitate the production of various types of textile articles, such as garments. Such textile articles can constitute garments and products that are essentially finished once the knitting machine has been realized, or they can undergo subsequent operations and processing, such as cutting, sewing, shaping and / or applying additional parts.

[0004] A circular weft knitting machine for realizing textile articles comprises a knitting assembly provided with: at least one needle-holding mechanism (needle-holding cylinder and / or plate) on which one or more series of needles are arranged along a circular path (circular needle bed); and means suitable for controlling the movement of the needles to form a fabric. The knitting assembly is usually provided with a plurality of knock-over sinkers movably arranged in radial seats obtained in an annular body (sinker crown) arranged around the needle-holding cylinder. These knock-over sinkers are configured to cooperate with the needles in the process of forming a knitted fabric, the knitted fabric having an overall configuration that is at least partially tubular.

[0005] The circular weft knitting machine also comprises a base. Specifically, the base constitutes the supporting structure of the knitting machine and exhibits such a mechanism by which the knitting machine contacts the load plane (or ground) of the relevant installation site.

[0006] Generally, the base of a circular knitting machine comprises an upper support ring or an equivalent support element, on which a knitting assembly is mounted, so that the needle holding mechanism can rotate around a vertical central axis. A base of a known type also comprises a plurality of support legs, which extend between the upper support ring and the support plane. In particular, the support legs are connected to the upper ring and are spatially separated around the central axis to ensure stable support of the knitting machine. Therefore, the main function of the base is to ensure the stability of the knitting assembly during its operation and to avoid the risk of the circular knitting machine tipping over. Therefore, the base is configured to support a knitting assembly, which is vertically spaced a distance from the support plane on which the circular knitting machine is located.

[0007] Typically, the support legs have an "L" configuration with a generally vertical lower portion or post that contacts the support plane and a generally horizontal upper portion or crossbar that connects to the upper ring.

[0008] Below the weaving assembly, the base defines an empty volume into which the fabric produced by the weaving assembly descends so as to be collected before being transferred to the station responsible for the processing required for packaging of the finished textile product.

[0009] In order to collect the fabric produced from the knitting assembly, the circular knitting machine can be provided with a removal and / or collection group, which is configured to automate the process of winding the knitted fabric into a roll. The removal and / or collection group is installed and accommodated below the knitting assembly in the volume defined by the base and is connected to the base or the knitting assembly. Specifically, the removal and / or collection group rotates, preferably synchronously with the needle holding mechanism, and winds the knitted fabric on a collection roller. In addition, the removal and / or collection group is usually provided with appropriate tensioning devices (e.g., one or more unwinding rollers and conveying rollers) to prevent dislocation and / or wrinkles from forming on the fabric roll. Therefore, the volume defined by the base must be large enough to allow the installation and rotation of the removal and / or collection group, and there must be no elements that may interfere with the structure and movement of the removal and / or collection group itself.

[0010] In the field of circular weft knitting machines, circular weft knitting machines of the "opening" type are known, i.e. circular machines in which the knitted fabric is collected as a single layer and therefore does not have a tubular configuration. According to embodiments, a single-layer knitted fabric can be obtained by longitudinal cutting (operated by a special cutter) and then the tubular fabric produced by the knitting assembly is spread out, or a single-layer knitted fabric can be produced directly by the knitting assembly "in opening" by means of a displacement movement of the needle-holding mechanism. In this type of circular knitting machine, the collected fabric therefore has the form of a single-layer band or strip.

[0011] "Spread" type knitting machines typically have a needle holding mechanism, ie, a needle holding cylinder or plate, of about 30 to 40 inches in diameter, although smaller diameters, such as 24 inches or greater than 40 inches, are also available.

[0012] The single-layer collection determines the widening of the knitted fabric relative to the dimensions of the tubular fabric leaving the knitting assembly. In particular, the width of the single-layer strip obtained by cutting and spreading is substantially doubled compared to the width of the tubular fabric flattened into a double layer (and therefore uncut) leaving the knitting assembly. Therefore, the dimensions and in particular the width of the removal and / or collection group responsible for winding the fabric "in the opening" are also substantially doubled compared to the removal and / or collection group responsible for winding a double-layer knitted fabric.

[0013] This increase in the size of the fabric to be collected and the associated size of the taking-down and / or collecting group has also an impact on the size of the base of the "unfolding" type circular weft knitting machine which, as mentioned above, must define a sufficiently large collecting volume below the weaving assembly to allow the installation of the taking-down and / or collecting group.

[0014] A circular knitting machine of the "unfolded" type, which is known in the art, generally has a base with three supporting legs, which are arranged circumferentially around an upper supporting ring, on which a knitting assembly with a needle holding mechanism is mounted. The three supporting legs are generally angularly equally spaced, i.e. an angle of 120° is defined between adjacent supporting legs. Generally, one of the three supporting legs constitutes a main leg, which accommodates the control means of the machine, such as a control unit and a user interface, by means of which the operation of the knitting machine can be controlled. In order to accommodate the above-mentioned control means, the main leg is generally larger in size with respect to the other two supporting legs, also called side legs. In particular, the main leg has a horizontal layout, i.e. a greater distance from the central axis of the machine than the side legs.

[0015] This structure of the base is particularly widespread and valued since it allows to stably support the entire knitting machine despite the considerable weight of the structure, its large dimensions and the presence of the moving mechanism. In particular, this solution allows to minimize the risk of tipping over of the machine and to limit vibration phenomena when the knitting assembly is in operation.

[0016] However, the three-legged structures of the bases known in the art also present some disadvantages. Firstly, it is obvious that the above-mentioned three-legged base solutions determine a high planar footprint of the knitting machine, i.e. they occupy a considerable extension area on the supporting plane. In particular, considering the two mutually orthogonal footprint directions of the knitting machine (in the factory building), the bases of the known machines have a considerable layout both in width and length. Usually, the length of the knitting machine is defined along the longitudinal axis accommodated in the vertical symmetry plane of the main legs, while the width is defined as the maximum extension along the axis orthogonal to the vertical symmetry plane and usually coincides with the lateral footprint determined by the distance between the two side legs. In view of the above, the overall footprint of the knitting machine can be represented as a rectangle with the above-mentioned length and width as sides and depends on the size and arrangement of the three legs.

[0017] In the field of circular knitting machines of the "unfolding" type, the large footprint of the base represents a particularly acute problem, especially in terms of transporting the base to the final installation site. In fact, as previously mentioned, due to the need to collect the fabric in the unfolding, the size of the collection group and / or the base suitable for housing it increases, and therefore also the base suitable for housing it. The planimetric footprint of these machines is quite large, not allowing optimal use of the space in the means suitable for their transportation (such as trucks, trains, vans, ships) from the relevant manufacturing plant to the final installation site.

[0018] The problems associated with transportation become even more apparent if the topic is limited to large-diameter "unfolded" machines, i.e. knitting machines of the "unfolded" type provided with a needle-holding mechanism having a diameter greater than 30 inches. In order to transport the aforementioned large-diameter knitting machines, it is necessary to arrange a special type of transport device, since their dimensions do not allow their transport by means of standard-type devices. As is known, standard-type transport devices have strict limitations when transporting goods, which prevent them from exceeding certain length and width dimensions. The above-mentioned limitations are associated with the dimensions of the freight transport container and the dimensions of the transport device, in particular with respect to the width of the trailer or container (which generally cannot exceed 230-240 centimeters). In particular, the length of the payload surface of the containers usually used for the transport of goods varies between 5860 millimeters (for a 20-foot container) and 12010 millimeters (for a 40-foot container). On the other hand, the width of such a container remains substantially constant and is approximately equal to 2300 millimeters.

[0019] The transportation of circular weft knitting machines known in the art, in particular of the "unfolded" type, is therefore expensive, since it does not allow the optimization of the useful space in the transport device, which usually has to travel only partially loaded. The transport costs are even higher when the machines to be transported are "unfolded" machines of large diameter, since they require the use of special transport devices to carry them, thus requiring the use of special vehicles and additional equipment, usually referred to as workshop stock.

[0020] Another disadvantage of the conventional equidistant three-leg configuration of the circular knitting machine base relates to access to the volume below the knitting assembly, where the removal and / or collecting group can be installed. In fact, the base described above has three substantially identical openings between the three supporting legs. The width of the openings is generally unsatisfactory, so that it is particularly difficult to carry out operations in the volume below the knitting assembly, in particular operations on the removal and / or collecting group, for example, installation and maintenance operations of the removal and / or collecting group, or loading / unloading operations of the collecting roller, on which the knitted fabric is wound.

[0021] In order to overcome the drawbacks determined by the equally spaced three-legged base, some solutions have been developed which allow the plan footprint of the knitting machine to be reduced and / or provide easier access to the space underneath the knitting assembly.

[0022] In an attempt to overcome the disadvantages of the footprint of the traditional equally spaced three-legged base, such a solution is described in patent EP1253230A1. The patent shows a three-legged base in which one main leg is fixed and the two side legs are able to switch between a transport configuration and a working configuration. The side legs can change their radial extension (relative to the central axis of the machine) so as to be closer to the central support ring when in the transport configuration (subsequently reducing the width of the footprint) and further away from the central support ring when in the working configuration (so as to determine a sufficiently large volume under the weaving assembly to accommodate the removal and / or collection group). The passage between the above two configurations is achieved by the selective assembly of two pairs of horizontal rods (or "extensions"), each side leg having a pair of horizontal rods. Specifically, when in the working configuration, the extension connects the upper and lower ends of each leg (or column) to the support ring and the bottom of the base, respectively, while when in the transport configuration, the extension is removed, connecting the column directly to the support ring and the bottom of the base. Thus, in the working configuration, the radial spacing of the leg uprights from the central support ring obtained by "extension" allows to provide a volume of suitable size under the knitting assembly. Conversely, the transport configuration allows to reduce the planimetric footprint of the machine, thus facilitating transportation and also making it more cost-effective. However, the solution proposed in EP1253230A1 is very complex in structure and construction and is therefore not suitable for supporting large diameter "expanded" type knitting machines in terms of reliability and makes its realization costly.

[0023] The applicant has previously attempted to overcome the drawbacks of the conventional equally spaced three-legged base by realising a circular weft knitting machine of the "unfolding" type, the base of which has three legs arranged circumferentially and defining a non-constant angle between them, i.e. different from the conventional 120°. This solution provides that each of the two side legs forms an angle greater than 120°, for example 135°, with the main leg (arranged along the longitudinal axis of the machine). The angle between the two side legs is therefore less than 120°, for example 90°.

[0024] Another solution proposed by the applicant himself is described in WO2014 / 191864A1, which shows a base for a knitting machine having only two supporting legs extending from the upper ring at diametrically opposite positions. The length of the base of WO2014 / 191864A1 is determined by the distance between the two supporting legs, while the relative width is determined by the size of the lower base or crossbeam that delimits downwardly the volume defined by the base.

[0025] Both solutions proposed by the applicant allow reducing, albeit to a limited extent, the width of the machine, at the expense of increasing the overall length of the machine. However, on the one hand, the different proportions allow complying with the strict width requirements of conveyors of standard type; on the other hand, the length dimensions of conveyors of conventional type are highly undesirable, especially in the case of large-diameter knitting machines. With reference to the dimensions of a 20-foot container, the length of a conventional transport container is insufficient for two large-diameter knitting machines, but too long for a single one. Consequently, a large part of the space in the container for transporting the knitting machines remains unused.

[0026] Furthermore, in the above-described solution, access to the volume below the knitting assembly occurs transversely. In fact, the largest opening between the supporting legs is arranged on the side of the knitting machine, namely in the opening adjacent to the main leg. Therefore, convenient access to the volume below the knitting assembly and to the removal and / or collection group is only possible through the side parts of the knitting machine. In particular, in the above-described knitting machine, the roll of knitted fabric wound on the collection roller of the removal and / or collection group must be pulled transversely.

[0027] However, at the installation site, knitting machines are usually positioned next to each other for reasons of space and production process optimization. Therefore, when installing the above machines, it is necessary to leave larger spacings between the knitting machines in order to allow transverse loading / unloading of the collecting rollers to / from the take-off and / or collecting group. Large spacings between the machines lead to a suboptimal utilization of space or the need to redesign the entire production site in order to ensure efficient production with this type of machine.

[0028] In view of this, the applicant has noticed that the base plane footprint of the known circular weft knitting machines is too large, which does not allow for optimized transportation to the installation site. The excessive size of the known base also makes the transportation costs of the related knitting machines more expensive, and at most may require the use of special types of transport devices.

[0029] Furthermore, the Applicant has also noticed that access to the collecting volume on the base of circular knitting machines of known type is inconvenient and irrational. In particular, the Applicant has noticed that in knitting machines of known art the operations of removing and / or loading and unloading the collecting rollers of the collecting group are very complicated and not very practical. Summary of the invention

[0030] Regarding the support structure of the circular weft knitting machine, the applicant has noticed that there are some limitations and disadvantages. In particular, the applicant has noticed that the circular knitting machine of known type comprises a base that is too bulky and whose proportions do not allow, for example, to be optimized for transport to the final installation site.

[0031] As indicated above, in this respect, the known solutions also have limitations in terms of accessibility to the space defined below the machine knitting assembly. On the one hand, some known bases do not have an opening width between the supporting legs that is not wide enough to allow for convenient extraction of the fabric roll wound on the removal and / or collection group. On the other hand, the increased opening width of the alternative solutions requires not very practical operations when loading and unloading the collection rollers of the associated removal and / or collection group.

[0032] In this context, a basic object of the present invention in its different aspects and / or embodiments is to propose a base for a circular weft knitting machine and a circular weft knitting machine that are able to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks and to overcome the limitations of the known art.

[0033] In particular, an object of the present invention is to propose a base for a circular knitting machine whose dimensions and proportions allow, for example, its transport by means of transport of conventional type.

[0034] Another object of the present invention is to propose a base for a circular knitting machine which is provided with a width and a length which are particularly small relative to the diameter of the needle-carrying means of the knitting assembly mounted on said base.

[0035] Another object of the present invention is to describe a base for a circular knitting machine, the dimensions and proportions of which are suitable for ensuring optimal use of the space inside a container of a transport device of conventional type.

[0036] Another object of the present invention is to provide a foundation for a circular knitting machine which ensures optimal support for the components of the aforementioned circular knitting machine.

[0037] Another object of the present invention is to propose a base for a circular knitting machine in which access to the volume below the knitting assembly is particularly convenient.

[0038] Another object of the invention is to provide a base for a circular knitting machine which allows working on the taking-off and / or collecting group in a practical and straightforward manner. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide a base for a circular knitting machine in which the collecting rollers of the taking-off and / or collecting group can be loaded and / or unloaded particularly easily.

[0039] Another object of the present invention is to provide a base for a circular knitting machine with a simple and reasonable structure.

[0040] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular knitting machine provided with the above-mentioned base.

[0041] Another object of the invention is to provide a circular knitting machine which is particularly stable in construction.

[0042] Another object of the present invention is to propose a circular knitting machine provided with a take-off and / or collecting group, wherein the insertion and / or extraction operation of the relative collecting roller is practical and straightforward.

[0043] Another object of the invention is to propose a circular knitting machine that is cheap to transport.

[0044] Another object of the invention is to provide a circular weft knitting machine which can be installed together with other knitting machines without causing problems for the collection operation of the produced textile material.

[0045] Another object of the present invention is to propose a circular knitting machine in which maintenance and / or adjustment interventions can be easily performed.

[0046] According to one or more of the attached claims, as well as according to the following aspects and / or embodiments, these objects, as well as other objects that will become clearer in the following description, are basically achieved by a base for a circular weft knitting machine and a circular weft knitting machine provided with the base, which base and the circular weft knitting machine can also be combined in various ways with the above claims.

[0047] In a first aspect, the invention is directed to a base for a circular weft knitting machine.

[0048] On the one hand, the circular knitting machine includes a weaving assembly, which is provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism, which is in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; a plurality of needles are provided, which are movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism; and a command device is provided, which is suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the production of knitted fabrics.

[0049] In one aspect, the base constitutes the contact point of the circular weft knitting machine on a supporting plane and supports the knitting assembly.

[0050] In one aspect, the base comprises:

[0051] - an upper support element, preferably an upper support ring, on which the braiding assembly is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism can rotate about a central axis substantially vertical and preferably perpendicular to the support plane;

[0052] - at least three supporting legs are interposed between the upper supporting element and the supporting plane, the at least three supporting legs being connected to the upper supporting element such that the upper supporting element is vertically at a distance from the supporting plane along the central axis.

[0053] In one aspect, the base defines a receiving space below the knitting assembly, the receiving space being configured to allow collection of a knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly.

[0054] It is to be noted that, in the present document, the terms "below", "down", "beneath", "under" and similar terms, as well as the opposite terms "over", "up", "above", "over" and similar terms, are to be understood as relating to the machine in use with respect to the vertical direction, i.e. the vertical direction perpendicular to the supporting plane.

[0055] Similarly, the terms "vertical", "vertically", "horizontal", "horizontally" and similar terms shall mean a machine in use wherein the vertical and horizontal directions are mutually orthogonal. Preferably, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the support plane and the horizontal direction is parallel to said support plane.

[0056] In one aspect, the at least three support legs are connected to the upper support element at different and laterally spaced positions according to a coordinate circular sequence about the central axis.

[0057] In one aspect, the at least three support legs define at least three openings between consecutive pairs of support legs in circular order according to the coordinates. In particular, the at least three openings are configured to allow access to the receiving space.

[0058] In one aspect, the at least three openings include a primary opening having a primary width and at least two secondary openings having respective secondary widths.

[0059] In one aspect, the main width is greater than the second width.

[0060] In one aspect, said at least three openings are defined by said at least three supporting legs when said base is in a use configuration, said use configuration being consistent with a configuration suitable for allowing the operation of the associated knitting machine. In other words, the base referred to in this specification is intended to be a base suitable for constituting a support structure for a knitting machine during its use. Thus, the base object of the invention is not only intended to be used in a configuration different from that of the base in use, for example a configuration suitable for simplifying the transport of the knitting machine, which configuration subsequently requires reconfiguration in order to function correctly for the production of knitted fabrics.

[0061] In one aspect, the main width of the main opening is at least 20% greater than the second width of each of the at least two second openings. Preferably, the main width of the main opening is at least 30% greater than the second width of each of the at least two second openings. Even more preferably, the main width of the main opening is at least 40% greater than the second width of each of the at least two second openings. In other words, the main width corresponds to at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.3 times, more preferably 1.4 times the second width of each of the at least two second openings.

[0062] In one aspect, the primary width and the secondary width are defined as the maximum distance between consecutive pairs of support legs according to a coordinate circular order.

[0063] In one aspect, the major width and the second width are linear distances calculated on a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

[0064] In one aspect, preferably, the main width and the second width are at least substantially measured at the contact points of the support planes of each consecutive pair of supporting legs according to a coordinate circular sequence.

[0065] In one aspect, the main width and the second width are measured on a plane perpendicular to the central axis, the plane preferably being parallel to the support plane. Specifically, the main width and the second width are defined as the maximum distance values ​​between each consecutive pair of supporting legs measured on a plane perpendicular to the central axis, the plane preferably being parallel to the support plane.

[0066] In an aspect, each of said at least three supporting legs extends vertically between a lower end in contact with said bearing plane and an upper end connected, preferably fixed, to said upper element.

[0067] In one aspect, each of the at least three supporting legs comprises an upright and a crossbeam continuous therebetween. The upright preferably has a substantially vertical layout, i.e. parallel to the central axis, and is provided with one end coinciding with the lower end. The crossbeam preferably has a substantially horizontal layout, i.e. perpendicular to the central axis, and is provided with one end coinciding with the upper end. In one aspect, the crossbeam is arranged from the upper element in a direction away from the central axis. According to an embodiment, the direction away may coincide with a direction radial to the central axis, or may be different from the radial direction.

[0068] In one aspect, the uprights and beams are integrally connected, preferably at an end of the uprights opposite the lower end, and at an end of the beam opposite the upper end. According to this aspect, each support leg has a substantially "L" shaped configuration.

[0069] In one aspect, said main width and said second width correspond to the maximum distance value between the uprights of each consecutive pair of supporting legs according to a coordinate circular order.Preferably, said maximum distance value is measured on a plane parallel to said support plane of the base.

[0070] In one aspect, the at least three support legs have a non-angled configuration. In one embodiment, the at least three support legs have a circumferential arcuate configuration or otherwise have a curved configuration.

[0071] In one aspect, the at least three support legs extend at least partially in a radial direction relative to the central axis. According to this aspect, the at least three support legs extend from the upper support element at least partially in a radial direction relative to the central axis. In particular, the crossbeam of each support leg extends horizontally from the upper element at a distance from the central axis. According to this aspect, the at least three support legs extend from the upper element at a distance from the central axis in a radial configuration.

[0072] In one aspect, the at least three support legs define at least three angles about the central axis, each angle being defined by consecutive pairs of legs in circular order according to the coordinates.

[0073] In one aspect, the at least three angles are defined by at least three vertical planes, each of the at least three supporting legs having a vertical plane. The at least three vertical planes include the central axis and cut through the respective supporting legs. Specifically, the at least three vertical planes are orthogonal to the support plane of the base.

[0074] In a preferred aspect, each vertical plane constitutes a symmetry plane of a respective support leg of the at least three support legs. In other words, each support leg has a symmetrical configuration relative to the associated vertical plane.

[0075] In one aspect, the at least three vertical planes represent a set of straight planes. In particular, the at least three vertical planes represent a set of straight planes that substantially intersect at the central axis. In other words, the central axis represents the position of a common point of the set of straight planes.

[0076] In one aspect, the sum of the at least three angles constitutes a rounded corner.

[0077] In one aspect, the at least three angles include a main angle and at least two secondary angles. In one aspect, the main angle is defined at the main opening, i.e., the main angle is defined by the same continuous pair of supporting legs (according to the coordinate circular order) that defines the main opening. In another aspect, the at least two second angles are defined at the at least two second openings, i.e., each second angle is defined by a continuous pair of supporting legs (according to the coordinate circular order) that defines a second opening.

[0078] In one aspect, the main width is directly related to the main angle. Preferably, the main width depends on the value of the main angle. In other words, the width of the main opening is determined by the value of the main angle, and vice versa.

[0079] In one aspect, each second width is directly related to the associated second angle. Preferably, each second width depends on the value of the associated second angle. In other words, the width of the second opening is determined by the value of the respective second angle, and vice versa.

[0080] In one aspect, the at least two second angles have the same angular extension. In other words, the values ​​of the at least two second angles coincide with each other.

[0081] In an alternative aspect, the at least two second angles have different angular extensions. In other words, the at least two second angles have different values.

[0082] In one aspect, the at least three support legs extend at least partially in a distance direction different from a radial direction relative to the central axis. According to this aspect, the at least three support legs extend from the upper support element at least partially in a distance direction different from a radial direction relative to the central axis.

[0083] According to this aspect, the vertical symmetry planes of the at least three supporting legs do not form a set of straight planes intersecting the central axis.

[0084] In one aspect, the vertical symmetry planes of the at least three supporting legs form a set of straight planes intersecting on an axis parallel to the central axis.

[0085] In one aspect, the vertical symmetry planes of the at least three supporting legs constitute a set of parallel straight planes. According to this aspect, the at least three supporting legs extend at a distance from the upper element at least partially according to mutually parallel directions.

[0086] In one aspect, the vertical symmetry plane of the at least three supporting legs is tangent to a cylinder whose longitudinal axis coincides with the central axis.

[0087] In one aspect, the at least three supporting legs include at least one main supporting leg. In particular, the at least three supporting legs include at least one main supporting leg and at least two secondary supporting legs. The secondary supporting legs are consistent with the portion of the at least three supporting legs that does not constitute at least one main supporting leg.

[0088] Preferably, the at least three support legs comprise a main support leg. In this aspect, the at least three support legs comprise a main support leg.

[0089] In a preferred aspect, the at least one main support leg is configured to accommodate at least one motor, which is suitable for moving one or more components of the circular weft knitting machine including the base. In particular, the at least one motor is configured to rotate at least the needle holding mechanism around the central axis.

[0090] In a preferred aspect, said at least one main supporting leg is configured to house a control unit adapted to drive components of a circular weft knitting machine comprising said base.

[0091] In a preferred aspect, the at least one main support leg is configured to house a user interface through which a user can control the operation of a circular knitting machine including the base.

[0092] In one aspect, the at least one primary support leg is increased in size relative to the secondary support leg. Preferably, except in vertical arrangement (ie height, and hence along an axis parallel to the central axis), the primary support leg is greater than the secondary support leg in all other dimensions.

[0093] In one aspect, the primary supporting legs have a horizontal layout, i.e. a layout at a distance from the upper supporting element, which is greater relative to the horizontal layout of the secondary supporting legs. In this specification, the term "horizontal layout of the supporting legs" refers to the distance between the end of the supporting legs closer to the central axis and the end of the supporting legs further from the central axis, preferably measured in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. Preferably, the horizontal layout is consistent with the longitudinal layout of the crossbeams of each supporting leg.

[0094] In one aspect, the horizontal layout of the primary supporting legs is at most 30% greater than the horizontal layout of the secondary supporting legs. Preferably, the horizontal layout of the primary supporting legs is at most 20% greater than the horizontal layout of the secondary supporting legs. Even more preferably, the horizontal layout of the primary supporting legs is at most 10% greater than the horizontal layout of the secondary supporting legs. In other words, the horizontal layout of the primary legs is at most 1.3 times, preferably at most 1.2 times, and more preferably at most 1.1 times greater than the horizontal layout of the secondary supporting legs.

[0095] In one aspect, the secondary supporting legs have the same horizontal layout.

[0096] In one aspect, the main opening is defined by a pair of secondary support legs. In other words, the pair of support legs defining the main opening does not include the at least one main support leg.

[0097] In one aspect, the primary support leg is located in the base opposite the primary opening.

[0098] In one aspect, the base includes three supporting legs. Specifically, the base includes a first supporting leg, a second supporting leg and a third supporting leg.

[0099] In one aspect, the first, second and third support legs define the primary opening and two secondary openings.

[0100] In one aspect, the main opening is defined between the first support leg and the second support leg.

[0101] In one aspect, the two second openings are defined between the second supporting leg and the third supporting leg and between the third supporting leg and the first supporting leg, respectively.

[0102] In one aspect, the third support leg is consistent with the primary support leg. According to this aspect, the first support leg and the second support leg are consistent with secondary support legs.

[0103] In one aspect, the at least three angles include the main angle and two second angles. In other words, the first support leg, the second support leg and the third support leg define the main angle and the two second angles.

[0104] In one aspect, the primary angle is defined between the first support leg and the second support leg.

[0105] In one aspect, the two second angles are defined between the second supporting leg and the third supporting leg and between the third supporting leg and the first supporting leg, respectively.

[0106] In one aspect, the main angle is an angle greater than or equal to 130°. Preferably, the main angle is an angle greater than or equal to 140°. More preferably, the main angle is an angle greater than or equal to 150°.

[0107] In one aspect, the main angle is an angle less than or equal to 180°.

[0108] In one aspect, the two second angles comprise an angle less than 115°. Preferably, the two second angles comprise an angle less than 110°. More preferably, the two second angles comprise an angle less than 100°.

[0109] In one aspect, the second angle comprises an angle greater than or equal to 90°.

[0110] In an aspect, the circular knitting machine is a circular knitting machine of the "unfolding" type. According to this aspect, the take-off and / or collecting group is configured to wind the knitted fabric in a single layer on a suitable collecting roller.

[0111] In one aspect, the planar footprint of the base may be inscribed in a rectangle. In this specification, the term "planar footprint" means the space occupied by the base on a plane perpendicular to the central axis, the plane being preferably a horizontal plane parallel to the support plane. According to this aspect, the planar footprint of the base may be contained in a rectangle.

[0112] In one aspect, the rectangle has a long side and a short side, the length of the long side being greater than the length of the short side.

[0113] In an aspect, the ratio between the length of the long side and the length of the short side is comprised between 1.2 and 1.4, preferably said ratio is substantially equal to 1.3.

[0114] In one aspect, when the circular knitting machine is a "spread-out" type knitting machine provided with knitting assemblies having diameters up to 40 inches, the length of the long side of the rectangle is less than or equal to 2980 millimeters.

[0115] In one aspect, when the circular knitting machine is a "spread-out" type knitting machine provided with knitting assemblies having diameters up to 40 inches, the short side of the rectangle has a length less than or equal to 2280 millimeters.

[0116] According to another aspect, the present description is directed to a circular weft knitting machine.

[0117] In an aspect, the circular knitting machine comprises a base according to one or more of the preceding aspects.

[0118] On the one hand, the circular knitting machine includes a weaving assembly, which is provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism, which is in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; a plurality of needles are provided, which are movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism; and a command device is provided, which is suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the manufacture of fabrics.

[0119] In one aspect, the base is configured to support the knitting assembly. According to this aspect, the knitting assembly is vertically spaced a distance relative to a support plane of the knitting machine. In particular, the at least three support legs of the base determine a distance between the knitting assembly and the support plane along a central axis. In one aspect, the distance between the knitting assembly and the support plane is determined by the accommodation space.

[0120] In one aspect, the needle holding mechanism is movable about the substantially vertical central axis in a rotational direction. During rotation of the needle holding mechanism, a plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism cooperate with at least the command device to allow the knitted fabric to be manufactured.

[0121] According to one aspect, the knitting assembly comprises at least a rotatable sinker-carrying mechanism which accommodates a plurality of knock-over sinkers of known type (and therefore not described in this document). The knitting assembly also comprises associated command means for the sinkers, which are adapted to selectively actuate the plurality of knock-over sinkers. The plurality of knock-over sinkers are configured to cooperate with the plurality of needles during the manufacturing process of the knitted fabric.

[0122] In one aspect, the base defines the receiving space below the knitting assembly. According to this aspect, the receiving space is configured to receive a collection of knitted fabrics produced by the knitting assembly.

[0123] In one aspect, the collecting device is a take-off and / or collecting group configured to automatically wind the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly into a roll.

[0124] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group is movable relative to the base. Preferably, the removal and / or collection group is movable in a rotational direction around the central axis.

[0125] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group is movable together with the needle holding mechanism in an integral manner, preferably in a rotational direction about the central axis.

[0126] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group is completely suspended from and supported by the base, or the collection device is completely suspended from and supported by the needle holding mechanism. In particular, the collection device is free from the presence of support means providing a support plane of the knitting machine. According to this aspect, the removal and / or collection group is defined as "suspended" from the circular knitting machine.

[0127] In an alternative aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises means of contact with the support plane of the knitting machine. For example, the contact means of the removal and / or collection group comprises a plurality of wheels or bearings configured to at least partially support the load of the removal and / or collection group and allow its movement during operation of the knitting machine.

[0128] In an aspect, the taking-off and / or collecting group comprises a loom. The loom is configured to define a support structure of the taking-off and / or collecting group and to support at least another component of the taking-off and / or collecting group itself.

[0129] In an aspect, the loom is also configured to allow the assembly of the taking-off and / or collecting group to the weaving assembly and / or to the base by means of appropriate connection means, such as a plurality of connection brackets.

[0130] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises a collection roller.

[0131] In one aspect, the collection roller is supported by the loom and is configured to wind and collect the knitted fabric produced by the weaving assembly.

[0132] In one aspect, the collecting roller is movable in a rotational direction about a first rotational axis. In one aspect, when the loom and / or collecting group is associated with the circular knitting machine, the first rotational axis is contained in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. Preferably, the first rotational axis is contained in a plane parallel to the supporting plane.

[0133] According to this aspect, the collecting roller is configured to rotate about the first rotation axis to wind the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly about the first rotation axis.

[0134] In one aspect, the longitudinal arrangement of the collecting roller along the first rotation axis is lower than the main width of the main opening. According to this aspect, the longitudinal arrangement of the collecting roller is lower than the distance between consecutive pairs of support legs defining the main opening.

[0135] In one aspect, the collecting roller can be associated with the removal and / or collecting group in a selective manner, in particular the collecting roller can be associated with the loom in a selective manner. According to said aspect, the collecting roller can be inserted into the removal and / or collecting group and can be withdrawn from the removal and / or collecting group. In particular, the collecting roller is configured such that, when a determined amount of knitted fabric is wound around the first rotation axis, the collecting roller is configured to be separated from the loom and withdrawn from the removal and / or collecting group.

[0136] In an aspect, the collecting roller is configured to be inserted into the taking-off and / or collecting group through the main opening and to be withdrawn from the taking-off and / or collecting group.

[0137] In one aspect, the loom of the take-off and / or collecting group comprises a housing channel to support the collecting roller. In one aspect, the housing channel is configured to allow the collecting roller to be inserted into the take-off and / or collecting group or to be withdrawn from the take-off and / or collecting group. The housing channel is configured to receive a blocking element of the collecting roller, which is suitable for maintaining the position of the collecting roller during the winding operation of the knitted fabric.

[0138] In one aspect, the take-off and / or collection group defines an articulated path for the fabric to exit from the weaving assembly, the articulated path terminating on the collection roller.

[0139] In one aspect, the take-off and / or collection group comprises at least an unwinding roller or a tensioning roller mounted on the loom at an upstream position relative to the collection roller along the articulated path of the fabric. The unwinding roller is configured to interact with the knitted fabric advancing towards the collection roller in order to spread / unwind it before winding it on the collection roller.

[0140] In one aspect, the unwinding roller extends in a direction substantially parallel to the first rotation axis of the collecting roller and is configured to rotate about an associated second rotation axis substantially parallel to the first rotation axis.

[0141] In particular, the unwinding rollers are adapted or shaped to spread the fabric, tensioning the fabric towards the associated longitudinal ends.

[0142] In one aspect, the unwinding roller is movably mounted on the loom and is capable of varying the distance separating it from the collecting roller.Preferably, the unwinding roller is mounted on the loom, preferably hinged to the loom, via a pair of movable arms.

[0143] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises at least a transfer roller mounted on the loom in a position upstream of the collection roller along the articulated path, preferably upstream of the unrolling roller. The at least one transfer roller is configured to tension the knitted fabric and to process it along the articulated path of the fabric towards the collection roller. Preferably, the at least one transfer roller extends in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and is configured to rotate around a third rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis. In an embodiment, the removal and / or collection group comprises a plurality of transfer rollers arranged in series, preferably upstream of the unrolling roller.

[0144] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises a device for flattening a knitted fabric originating from a weaving assembly, the knitted fabric being in the form of an at least partially tubular fabric. The flattening device is arranged upstream of the various components of the removal and / or collection group along the articulated path. In one embodiment, the flattening device may comprise a pair of rollers arranged parallel to each other. In another embodiment, the flattening device may comprise a pair of rods arranged parallel to each other. The rollers / rods are arranged side by side with each other so as to define a substantially straight channel for the knitted fabric, thereby determining a substantial flattening of the tubular shape of the knitted fabric along its diameter, the knitted fabric having two layers substantially in contact with each other.

[0145] In an aspect, the circular knitting machine is a circular knitting machine of the “unfolding” type. According to this aspect, the taking-off and / or collecting group is configured to wind the knitted fabric in a single layer on the collecting roller.

[0146] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group may comprise a cutting device arranged downstream of the flattening device along the articulation path of the fabric. The cutting device is configured to longitudinally cut the tubular knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly along a preferably vertical generatrix so that it can then be opened on a collection roll and wound into a single layer.

[0147] In one aspect, the knitting assembly is configured to achieve a knitted fabric having a longitudinally expanded tubular configuration. In this aspect, the knitting assembly is configured to produce the knitted fabric by a circular motion having an alternate direction. Thus, the fabric product produced by the knitting machine does not constitute a closed tubular fabric, but has an opening over at least a portion of its entire longitudinal layout.

[0148] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group may comprise spreading means of the fabric in the opening, said fabric originating directly from the needle-holding mechanism or obtained by said cutting means as a single layer. Said spreading means are arranged downstream along said articulated path of the fabric with respect to said flattening means and said cutting means, if any. These spreading means are arranged along the articulated path of the fabric, upstream with respect to said at least one conveying roller, said unwinding roller and said collecting roller along said articulated path of the fabric. Said flattening means are configured to open the fabric exiting from the flattening means and possibly to perform a longitudinal cut by said cutting means, if any.

[0149] On the one hand, the spreading device includes at least one spreading rod, which is preferably fixedly mounted to the loom and is structured to determine the opening by gradually pulling the distance between the two lateral edges of the fabric apart, and the fabric passes on the spreading rod along its hinged path and is spread on the spreading rod as a single layer of fabric.

[0150] Preferably, the spreading rod has an overall rounded "V" configuration, ie, it has a central portion in the shape of a curve or a circular arc, and two straight portions protruding in opposite directions from both sides of the central portion.

[0151] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises a plurality of actuators configured to move relatively movable parts of the removal and / or collection group. In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises at least one of the following actuators:

[0152] - an actuator of the collecting roller, configured to determine a rotation of said collecting roller about said first axis of rotation;

[0153] - an actuator of the unrolling roller configured to determine the rotation of said unrolling roller about said second axis of rotation;

[0154] - an actuator of the pair of movable arms carrying the unrolling roller, configured to determine the movement of the pair of movable arms and to vary the distance between the unrolling roller and the collecting roller;

[0155] - an actuator of at least one conveyor roller configured to determine a rotation of said at least one conveyor roller about said third axis of rotation;

[0156] - an actuator of the flattening device configured to determine the rotation of the flattening roller about a relative axis of rotation;

[0157] - an actuator of the cutting device, configured to actuate the cutting device and to determine a longitudinal opening of the tubular knitted fabric exiting from the knitting assembly.

[0158] Further features and advantages will result from the detailed description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment of a base for a circular weft knitting machine and a circular weft knitting machine provided with said base according to the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0159] This description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for purposes of illustration only and are therefore not limiting, in which:

[0160] - Figure 1 A perspective view showing an embodiment of a base of a circular knitting machine according to the invention;

[0161] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 Different perspectives of the base;

[0162] - Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 Front view of the base;

[0163] - Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 Side view of the base;

[0164] - Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 A top plan view of the base;

[0165] - Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A top view of the base;

[0166] - Figure 7 Shows Figure 3 A sectional view of the base according to section VII-VII;

[0167] - Figure 8 Shows the use of Figure 1-7 A perspective view of a circular knitting machine with a base;

[0168] - Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 Different perspective views of a circular knitting machine with components in different positions;

[0169] - Fig.10 Shows Fig. 9 A front view of a knitting machine;

[0170] - Fig.11 Shows Fig. 9 A top plan view of a knitting machine;

[0171] - Fig.12 Shown according to Figure 8-11 A perspective view of a circular knitting machine with some optional additional parts;

[0172] - Fig.13 Shown according to Figure 1-7 A top plan view of a pair of bases located within a container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0173] With reference to the above-mentioned figures, reference numeral 100 integrally denotes a base of a circular weft knitting machine M according to the present invention, which for simplicity is hereinafter referred to as base 100. Generally, identical or similar elements are eventually provided with the same reference numerals in their different embodiments.

[0174] like Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown in , the base 100 is configured to be used in the environment of a circular weft knitting machine M (hereinafter referred to as machine M for simplicity). As shown above, the machine M includes a textile weaving assembly 200, which is provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism 201, which is in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, and is provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism, and is provided with a command device, which is suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics. In particular, the base 100 constitutes a contact point of the machine M on the supporting plane F and supports the weaving assembly 200. The needle holding mechanism 201 rotates around a central axis R and is configured to manufacture a knitted fabric having a structure that is at least partially tubular around the central axis R. Preferably, the central axis R is an axis that is substantially vertical and perpendicular to the bearing plane F.

[0175] The machine M shown in the drawings is a circular knitting machine of the "unfolding" type, i.e. a circular knitting machine configured to produce and collect the knitted fabric in a single layer. A single layer of fabric is a knitted fabric without a complete tubular structure. For example, a single layer of knitted fabric can be obtained from the longitudinal opening of the tubular fabric produced by the knitting assembly 200 by means of a suitable cutting device.

[0176] It should be noted that, in the present document, the terms "below", "lower", "beneath", "under" and similar terms, as well as the opposite terms "over", "up", "above", "over" and similar terms, are considered to relate to the machine M in use relative to the vertical direction F, i.e. the vertical direction perpendicular to the supporting plane.

[0177] Similarly, the terms "vertical", "vertically", "horizontal", "horizontally" and similar terms refer to a machine M in use wherein the vertical and horizontal directions are mutually orthogonal. Preferably, the vertical direction is perpendicular to a support plane F and the horizontal direction is parallel to said support plane.

[0178] As shown in the figures, the base 100 constitutes the contact point of the machine M on a support plane F. The base 100 is configured to support the knitting assembly 200 .

[0179] According to e.g. Figure 1 As shown, the base 100 includes:

[0180] - an upper support element 4, preferably an upper support ring, on which the braiding assembly 200 is mounted, so that the needle holding mechanism 201 can rotate around the central axis R;

[0181] - At least three supporting legs 1 , 2 , 3 interposed between said upper supporting element 4 and said bearing plane F.

[0182] The at least three supporting legs 1 , 2 , 3 are connected to the upper supporting element 4 , such that the upper supporting element 4 is vertically spaced apart from the bearing plane F along the center axis R.

[0183] For ease of explanation, the following detailed description will mainly refer to the embodiment of the base 100 shown in the drawings, namely an embodiment in which the base 100 includes three supporting legs, namely a first supporting leg 1, a second supporting leg 2 and a third supporting leg 3.

[0184] This description is intended to be strictly exemplary and non-limiting, since in any case bases 100 having a greater number of supporting legs and bases 100 provided with structurally and / or functionally similar elements may be considered to form part of the purpose of this description.

[0185] like Figure 1-4 and Figure 8-11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the base 100 defines a receiving space V below the knitting assembly 200 . As will become clearer in the following part of the present specification, the receiving space V is configured to allow the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly 200 to be collected.

[0186] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the three supporting legs 1 , 2 , 3 are connected to the upper supporting element 4 at different and laterally spaced positions according to a coordinate circular sequence 1 - 2 - 3 about the central axis R.

[0187] According to their arrangement, the three supporting legs 1,2,3 define three openings A1,A2,A3 between consecutive supporting leg pairs 1-2,2-3,1-3 according to the coordinate circular sequence 1-2-3. In particular, the at least three openings A1,A2,A3 are configured to allow access to the accommodation space V.

[0188] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the three openings A1, A2, A3 include a main opening A1 (having a main width W1) and two second openings A2, A3 (having respective second widths W2, W3). Figure 5 It can be clearly seen from the view that the main width W1 is larger than the second width W2.

[0189] It should be noted that when the base 100 is in the use configuration, i.e. a configuration suitable for allowing the operation of the associated knitting machine, the three openings A1, A2, A3 are defined by the three supporting legs 1, 2, 3. In other words, the base 100 described in this specification means a base that constitutes the support structure of the knitting machine M during use, i.e. Figure 8-12 Therefore, the object of the base 100 in this description is not only intended to be a base in a configuration different from the use configuration, for example a configuration suitable for simplifying the transportation of the machine M, which configuration then needs to be reconfigured before it can function properly for the production of knitted fabrics.

[0190] Specifically, the main width W1 of the main opening A1 is at least 20% greater than the second width W2, W3 of each of the second openings A2, A3. More preferably, the main width W1 is at least 30% greater than each of the two second widths W2, W3. Even more preferably, the main width W1 is at least 40% greater than each of the two second widths W2, W3. In other words, the main width W1 corresponds to at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.3 times, more preferably 1.4 times, the second widths W2, W3 of the two second openings A2, A3.

[0191] In the embodiment shown, the main width W1 and the second widths W2, W3 are defined as the distances D1, D2, D3 between each consecutive pair of supporting legs 1-2, 2-3, 1-3 according to the coordinate circular order 1-2-3. In particular, the main width W1 and the second widths W2, W3 are linear distances calculated on a plane perpendicular to the central axis R. Preferably, for example, Figure 7As shown in , the main width W1 and the second width W2, W3 are preferably measured at least substantially at the contact points of the support plane F of each consecutive pair of support legs 1-2, 2-3, 1-3 according to the coordinate circular order 1-2-3. In the embodiment shown, the main width W1 and the second width W2, W3 are defined as the maximum distance values ​​D1, D2, D3 between each consecutive pair of support legs 1-2, 2-3, 1-3 measured on a plane perpendicular to the central axis R (i.e. a plane parallel to the support plane F).

[0192] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in , each support leg 1, 2, 3 extends vertically between a lower end 1D, 2D, 3D in contact with the support plane F and an upper end 1U, 2U, 3U connected (preferably fixed) to the upper support element 4. Preferably, each support leg 1, 2, 3 comprises a column 1M, 2M, 3M and a crossbeam 1T, 2T, 3T continuous between the columns. The columns 1M, 2M, 3M are preferably arranged substantially vertically, i.e. parallel to the central axis R, and are provided with an end which coincides with the lower end 1D, 2D, 3D. The crossbeam 1T, 2T, 3T is preferably arranged substantially horizontally, i.e. perpendicular to the central axis R, and is provided with an end which coincides with the upper end 1U, 2U, 3U. In particular, the cross beams 1T, 2T, 3T are arranged from the upper element 4 in a direction away from the central axis R, which direction may coincide with a radial direction relative to the central axis, as in the embodiment shown, or be different from the radial direction. Furthermore, the uprights 1M, 2M, 3M and the cross beams 1T, 2T, 3T are integrally connected, preferably at one end of the uprights opposite to the lower end 1D, 2D, 3D, and at one end of the cross beams opposite to the upper end 1U, 2U, 3U. Thus, each supporting leg 1, 2, 3 has a substantially "L"-shaped configuration.

[0193] like Figure 7 As shown in the view of FIG. 1 , the main width W1 and the second width W2, W3 correspond to the maximum distance values ​​D1, D2, D3 between the columns 1T, 2T, 3T of each consecutive pair of supporting legs 1-2, 2-3, 1-3 of the coordinate circular sequence 1-2-3. Preferably, the maximum distance values ​​D1, D2, D3 are measured on a plane parallel to the support plane F.

[0194] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the support legs have a non-angled configuration. For example, the support legs may have a circumferential arcuate configuration, or otherwise have a curved configuration.

[0195] As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment, the three supporting legs 1, 2, 3 extend at least partially in a radial direction relative to the central axis R. Specifically, the three supporting legs 1, 2, 3 extend at least partially in a radial direction relative to the central axis R at a distance from the upper element 4. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in FIG, the crossbar 1T, 2T, 3T of each supporting leg extends horizontally from said upper element 4 at a distance from said central axis R in a radial configuration.

[0196] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the supporting legs 1, 2, 3 extend at least partially from the upper element 4 in a distance direction different from the radial direction relative to the central axis R. For example, the vertical symmetry planes P1, P2, P3 of the supporting legs can be any set of straight planes intersecting axes different from the central axis R, or can be a set of parallel straight planes, or can also be planes tangential to a cylinder whose longitudinal axis coincides with the central axis R.

[0197] like Figure 5 As shown in , the three supporting legs 1, 2, 3 define three angles around the central axis R, each angle B1, B2, B3 being defined by a continuous pair of supporting legs 1-2, 2-3, 1-3 according to the coordinate circular sequence 1-2-3. In particular, the angles B1, B2, B3 are defined by three vertical planes P1, P2, P3, one plane corresponding to each of the three supporting legs 1, 2, 3. The vertical planes P1, P2, P3 include the central axis R and cut the respective supporting legs. Therefore, the vertical planes P1, P2, P3 are orthogonal to the support plane F of the base 100.

[0198] Preferably, each vertical plane P1, P2, P3 constitutes a plane of symmetry of the respective supporting leg 1, 2, 3. In other words, each supporting leg 1, 2, 3 has a symmetrical configuration with respect to the opposite vertical plane P1, P2, P3.

[0199] like Figure 5 As shown in , the vertical planes P1, P2, P3 represent a set of straight planes that substantially intersect at the central axis R. In other words, the central axis R represents the position of a common point of the set of straight planes. Preferably, the sum of the angles B1, B2, B3 constitutes a rounded angle, i.e., the sum of the angles B1, B2, B3 is 360°.

[0200] like Figure 5As shown in , the angles B1, B2, and B3 include a main angle A1 and two second angles B1 and B2. Specifically, the main angle B1 is defined at the main opening A1, that is, the main angle A1 is defined by the same continuous support leg pair 1-2 (according to the coordinate circular order 1-2-3) that defines the main opening A1. Similarly, the second angles B1 and B2 are defined at the second openings A2 and A3, that is, each second angle B1 and B2 is defined by a continuous support leg pair 2-3 and 1-3 (according to the coordinate circular order 1-2-3), and the continuous support leg pair 2-3 and 1-3 define the second openings A2 and A3. In view of the above, the main width W1 of the main opening A1 is directly related to the main angle B1. Preferably, the main width W1 depends on the value of the main angle B1. In other words, the width of the main opening A1 is determined by the value of the main angle W1, and vice versa. Similarly, each second width W2 and W3 is directly related to the associated second angle B2 and B3. Preferably, each second width W2, W3 depends on the value of the associated second angle B2, B3, ie the width of each second opening A2, A3 is determined by the value of the respective second angle B2, B3, and vice versa.

[0201] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the second angles B2 and B3 have the same angular extension, that is, the values ​​of the second angles coincide with each other. In other embodiments not shown, the second angles B2 and B3 have different angular extensions, that is, the at least two second angles have different values.

[0202] The supporting legs 1, 2, 3 preferably include at least one main supporting leg, more preferably include one main supporting leg. In addition, the supporting legs 1-2 include at least two secondary supporting legs, which correspond to the parts of the supporting legs that do not constitute at least one main supporting leg.

[0203] Preferably, the at least one main support leg is configured to accommodate at least one motor, which is suitable for moving one or more components of the machine M, in particular, the at least one motor is configured to at least rotate the needle holding mechanism 201 around the central axis R. Still preferably, the at least one main support leg is configured to accommodate: a control unit, which is suitable for driving components of the machine M; and / or a user interface, through which a user can control the operation of the machine M.

[0204] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the base 100 includes a main supporting leg consistent with the third supporting leg 3 , and two secondary supporting legs consistent with the first supporting leg 1 and the second supporting leg 2 .

[0205] As shown in the figures, the dimensions of the main support leg (third support leg 3) are increased relative to the secondary support legs (first support leg 1 and second support leg 2). Preferably, except for the vertical layout (i.e. height, and therefore along an axis parallel to the central axis R), the other dimensions of the main support leg are larger relative to the dimensions of the secondary support legs. Figure 6 In the view shown, the main supporting leg 3 has a horizontal layout C3, i.e. a layout at a distance from the upper supporting element 4, which is greater than the horizontal layout C1, C2 of the secondary supporting legs 1, 2. As shown, the expression "horizontal spread of the supporting legs" means the distance between the end of the supporting leg closer to the central axis and the end of the supporting leg further away from the central axis, measured on a plane perpendicular to the central axis R. Preferably, the horizontal layout C1, C2, C3 is consistent with the longitudinal layout of the crossbeams 1T, 2T, 3T of each supporting leg. In the embodiment shown, the secondary supporting legs 1, 2 have the same horizontal spread (i.e. C1=C2). In an alternative embodiment not shown, there are different horizontal layouts between the secondary supporting legs 1, 2.

[0206] In particular, the horizontal arrangement C3 of the main supporting legs is at most 30% larger, preferably 20% larger, more preferably 10% larger, relative to the horizontal arrangement C1, C2 of the secondary supporting legs. In other words, the horizontal arrangement C3 of the main supporting legs is at most 1.3 times, preferably at most 1.2 times, more preferably at most 1.1 times the horizontal arrangement C1, C2 of the secondary supporting legs.

[0207] It should be noted that the main opening A1 is defined by two secondary supporting legs, namely, a pair of legs consisting of a first supporting leg 1 and a second supporting leg 2. Therefore, the pair of supporting legs defining the main openings A1, A2 does not include the at least one main supporting leg, which is preferably located at a position opposite to the main opening A1 in the base 100.

[0208] In an embodiment of a base 100 provided with three supporting legs (such as the supporting legs shown in the accompanying drawings), the main angle B1 is an angle greater than or equal to 130°. Preferably, the main angle B1 is an angle greater than or equal to 140°. More preferably, the main angle B1 is an angle greater than or equal to 150°. More preferably, the main angle B1 is an angle less than or equal to 180°. At the same time, the two second angles B2, B3 include an angle less than 115°. Preferably, the two second angles B2, B3 include an angle less than 110°. More preferably, the two second angles B2, B3 include an angle less than 100°. Still preferably, the second angles B2, B3 include an angle greater than or equal to 90°.

[0209] like Figure 7As shown in , the plane footprint of the base 100 may be inscribed in a rectangle L. In the present specification, the term "plane footprint" means the space occupied by the base 100 on a plane perpendicular to the central axis R, which plane is preferably consistent with a horizontal plane parallel to the support plane F. The rectangle L has a long side L1 and a short side L2, wherein the length of the long side L1 is greater than the length of the short side L2.

[0210] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the long side L1 and the length of the short side L2 is comprised between 1.2 and 1.4, preferably said ratio is substantially equal to 1.3. According to the above description, when the machine M is a circular knitting machine of the "unfolded" type (such as the circular knitting machine shown), which is provided with a knitting assembly 200 with a diameter of up to 40 inches, the length of the long side L1 of the rectangle L is less than or equal to 2980 mm and the length of the short side L2 of the rectangle L is less than or equal to 2280 mm. These proportions of the base 100 allow more M-type machines to be accommodated in the same standard-sized container K in order to optimize the available space. For example, Fig.13 It is shown that two bases 100', 100". are accommodated in a 20-foot standard-sized container K. As is apparent from the above figure, the base proportions according to the present invention allow almost all available space in the container K to be utilized to accommodate the two bases 100', 100". Similarly, when the container K is a 40-foot standard-sized container, the base proportions allow optimal accommodation of four bases, and therefore of the associated four circular knitting machines.

[0211] Reference Figure 8-12 , the technical features of a circular weft knitting machine or machine M in which the previously described base 100 is used will now be described.

[0212] As mentioned above, the machine M comprises a knitting assembly 200, which is provided with at least one needle holding mechanism 201 in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; provided with a plurality of needles, which are movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism; and provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the production of fabrics. Specifically, the needle holding mechanism 201 is movable in a rotation direction around the central axis R. During the rotation of the needle holding mechanism 201, the plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism cooperate with at least the command device to allow the production of the knitted fabric.

[0213] Preferably, the knitting assembly 200 comprises at least a rotatable sinker carrier mechanism, which accommodates a plurality of knock-over sinkers of known type and is therefore not described in this document. The knitting assembly may also include a sinker-related command device, which is suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of knock-over sinkers. The plurality of knock-over sinkers are configured to cooperate with the plurality of needles during the manufacturing process of the knitted fabric.

[0214] As shown, the base 100 is configured to support the knitting assembly 200 so that the knitting assembly 200 is vertically spaced a distance from a support plane F of the machine M. Fig.10 The view shows that the support legs 1 , 2 , 3 of the base 100 determine that there is a certain distance between the weaving assembly 200 and the supporting plane F along the central axis R.

[0215] In particular, the base 100 defines the receiving space V below the knitting assembly 200 . As will be more clearly seen in the following part of the specification, the receiving space V is configured to receive a collection device of knitted fabrics produced by the knitting assembly 200 .

[0216] Preferably, the collecting device is a take-off and / or collection group 300 configured to automatically wind the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly into a roll. For ease of explanation, the take-off and / or collection group 300 is hereinafter referred to as group 300.

[0217] The group 300 is movable relative to the base 100. Preferably, the group 300 is movable around the central axis R in a rotational direction. More preferably, the group 300 and the needle holding mechanism 201 are movable around the central axis R in a rotational direction integrally.

[0218] exist Figure 8-11 In the embodiment shown in , the group 300 is completely suspended to the needle holding mechanism 201 and is completely supported by the needle holding mechanism 201. In particular, the group 300 does not have the presence of supporting means providing a support plane F. In this case, the group 300 is defined as "suspended" to the circular knitting machine. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the group 300 comprises means of contact with the support plane F. For example, the contact means comprise a plurality of wheels or bearings configured to at least partially support the load of the group 300 and allow it to move during operation of the machine M.

[0219] The group 300 comprises a loom configured to define a supporting structure of the group 300 and to support at least another part of the removal and / or collection group itself. In particular, the further configuration of the loom allows the group 300 to be assembled to the knitting assembly and / or to the base by appropriate connection means 300M, such as a plurality of connection brackets.

[0220] The group 300 includes a collecting roller 301, which is supported by the loom and is configured to wind and collect the knitted fabric produced by the weaving assembly 200. Specifically, the collecting roller 301 can move in a rotation direction around a first rotation axis R1. When the group 300 is associated with the machine M, the first rotation axis R1 is contained in a plane perpendicular to the central axis R. Preferably, the first rotation axis R1 is contained in a plane parallel to the supporting plane F. According to the above description, the collecting roller 301 is configured to rotate around the first rotation axis R1 to wind the knitted fabric produced by the weaving assembly 200 around the first rotation axis R1.

[0221] like Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As clearly shown in the drawing, the longitudinal arrangement of the collecting roller 301 along the first rotation axis R1 is smaller than the main width W1 of the main opening A1 , in particular, the longitudinal arrangement of the collecting roller 301 is smaller than the distance D1 between consecutive supporting leg pairs 1 - 2 defining the main opening A1 .

[0222] Preferably, the collecting roller 301 can be selectively associated with the group 300, in particular, the collecting roller 301 can be selectively associated with the loom. The collecting roller 301 can be inserted into the group 300 and can be extracted from the group 300. Specifically, the collecting roller 301 is configured to be detachable from the loom and extracted from the group 300 when a certain amount of knitted fabric is wound around the first rotation axis R1.

[0223] from Figure 9-11 As can be seen from the view of FIG. 1 , the collecting roller 301 is configured to be inserted into and withdrawn from the group 300 through the main opening A1. To this end, the loom of the group 300 comprises housing channels 301A, 301B to support the collecting roller 301. In particular, the housing channels 301A, 301B are configured to allow the collecting roller 301 to be inserted into the group 300 or the collecting roller itself to be withdrawn from the group. Preferably, the housing channels 301A, 301B are configured to receive a blocking element 301F of the collecting roller 301, which is suitable for maintaining the position of the collecting roller 301 during the winding operation of the knitted fabric.

[0224] During the winding operation of the knitted fabric, the group 300 defines an articulated path of the fabric exiting from the knitting assembly 200, which ends on the collecting roller 301. In the following, the arrangement of the further components of the group 300 will be described with reference to the articulated path of the knitted fabric from the knitting assembly 200 to the collecting roller 301. According to different embodiments, the group 300 may not include one or more of the following components, which should therefore be intended to be optional.

[0225] The set 300 comprises at least one unwinding roller 302 or tensioning roller mounted on the loom in an upstream position along the articulated path of the fabric relative to the collecting roller 301. The unwinding roller 302 is configured to interact with the fabric advancing towards the collecting roller 301 so as to spread / unwind it before being wound on the collecting roller 301. Fig.10 As shown in the figure, the unrolling roller 302 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the first rotation axis R1 of the collecting roller 301, and is configured to rotate around an associated second rotation axis R2 substantially parallel to the first rotation axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the unrolling roller 302 is a spiral roller that conforms or is shaped to spread the knitted fabric and tension the knitted fabric toward the longitudinal ends of the unrolling roller itself.

[0226] Preferably, the unwinding roller 302 is mounted on the loom in a movably manner and is capable of varying the distance separating it from the collecting roller. In the illustrated embodiment, the unwinding roller 302 is mounted on the loom by a pair of movable arms 303 articulated with the loom.

[0227] The group 300 comprises at least one conveying roller 304 mounted on the loom at a position upstream of the collecting roller 301 along the articulated path, preferably upstream of the unwinding roller 302. The at least one conveying roller 304 is configured to tension the knitted fabric and process it along the articulated path of the fabric toward the collecting roller 301. More preferably, the at least one conveying roller 304 extends in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis R1 and is configured to rotate around a third rotation axis R3 parallel to the first rotation axis R1. In the illustrated embodiment, the group 304 comprises a pair of conveying rollers arranged in series upstream of the unwinding roller 302.

[0228] The group 300 may include a flattening device 305 of a knitted fabric in the form of at least a portion of a tubular fabric originating from the knitting assembly 200. The flattening device 305 is arranged upstream along the articulation path relative to the components of the group 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the flattening device 305 comprises a pair of rollers arranged parallel to each other. In another alternative and not illustrated embodiment, the flattening device may comprise a pair of rods arranged parallel to each other. The rollers / rods are arranged side by side with each other so as to define a substantially straight channel for the knitted fabric, thereby substantially flattening the tubular shape of the knitted fabric along its diameter, the knitted fabric having two layers substantially in contact with each other.

[0229] It is noted that the machine M shown is a circular knitting machine of the “unfolding” type, ie a circular knitting machine configured to produce and collect said knitted fabric in a single layer.

[0230] In order to obtain a single-layer fabric from the tubular knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly 200, the group 300 comprises a cutting device arranged downstream along the articulation path of said fabric relative to said flattening device 305. Said cutting device is configured to cut longitudinally, along preferably vertical generatrixes, the tubular knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly, in order to subsequently open it on a collecting roll and wind it into a single layer.

[0231] In a further alternative embodiment, the knitting assembly 200 is configured to achieve a knitted fabric having a longitudinally expanded tubular configuration. In particular, the knitting assembly 200 manufactures the knitted fabric by a circular motion having an alternative direction. Therefore, the knitted fabric produced by the knitting machine does not constitute a closed tubular fabric, but has an opening on at least a portion of its entire longitudinal layout, and therefore does not require the presence of the above-mentioned cutting device.

[0232] Furthermore, the assembly 300 comprises spreading means 306 of the fabric in the opening, said fabric originating directly as a single layer from the needle means 201 or obtained by said cutting means. These spreading means 306 are arranged downstream along said articulated path of the fabric with respect to said flattening means 305 and said cutting means (if any), and upstream along said articulated path of the fabric with respect to said at least one conveying roller 304, said unwinding roller 302 and said collecting roller 301. Said flattening means 306 are configured to open the fabric exiting from the flattening means 305 and possibly to cut it longitudinally by said cutting means (if any).

[0233] In the embodiment shown, the spreading device 306 comprises at least one spreading rod, which is preferably fixedly mounted on the loom of the group 300 and is configured to determine the opening by gradually pulling apart the distance between the two lateral edges of the fabric. When the fabric passes through the spreading rod, the fabric is spread into a single-layer fabric. Preferably, the spreading rod has an overall rounded "V" configuration, that is, it has a central portion in a curved or circumferential arch shape, and two straight portions protruding from both sides of the central portion in opposite directions.

[0234] In order to move the movable parts, the group 300 includes a plurality of actuators. Preferably, the group 300 includes at least one of the following actuators:

[0235] - an actuator of the collecting roller 301 configured to determine the rotation of said collecting roller about the first axis of rotation R1;

[0236] - an actuator of the unrolling roller 302 configured to determine the rotation of said unrolling roller about the second axis of rotation R2;

[0237] - an actuator of the pair of movable arms 303, configured to determine the movement of the pair of movable arms and to vary the distance between the unwinding roller 302 and the collecting roller 301;

[0238] - an actuator of at least one conveyor roller 304 configured to determine the rotation of said at least one conveyor roller about said third axis of rotation R3;

[0239] - an actuator of the flattening device 305 configured to determine the rotation of the flattening roller about a relative axis of rotation;

[0240] - an actuator of the cutting device, configured to actuate the cutting device and to determine the longitudinal opening of the tubular knitted fabric exiting from the knitting assembly.

[0241] like Fig.12 As shown in the example, the machine M using the group 300 may also include other components, such as

[0242] - Components of the braiding assembly 200, such as covers, cams, wire guides, etc.;

[0243] - A U-shaped conical support structure placed above the braided assembly 200;

[0244] a plurality of closed cages G for closing a containing space V in which the group 300 is housed (this results in the group 300 being enclosed in such cages, in use).

[0245] The closed cage G is movably mounted (e.g., hinged) to the base 100 between at least a closed configuration, in which the closed cage delimits the accommodation space V and prevents access to the accommodation space V from the outside, and an open configuration, in which the closed cage allows access to the accommodation space V. In particular, the cage G is configured together with the base 100 to accommodate a rotating solid generated by the rotation group 300 around the central axis R.

[0246] The cage G is suitable for allowing safe operation of the machine M: in fact, the group 300 operates by rotating about the central axis R in the containment space V, and it is therefore necessary to make this volume inaccessible during operation of the machine to avoid accidental contact with the moving mechanisms.

[0247] On the contrary, the cage G must also allow access inside the containment space V in order to carry out configuration and maintenance operations on the machine M or loading / unloading operations on the collecting roller 301. According to an embodiment, the cage G can be opened individually and selectively, manually or automatically. Fig.12 In the embodiment shown in , the cage G is composed of three pairs of cages, each pair of cages being adapted to define a receiving space V in the defined space between the pairs of supporting legs 1 , 2 , 3 of the base 100 .

[0248] Advantages of the present invention

[0249] The present invention achieves important advantages.

[0250] As broadly demonstrated above, the structural and / or functional features of the base 100 object of the present specification allow for overcoming the limitations of the known art.

[0251] Firstly, the dimensions and proportions of the base 100 according to the present description allow it to be transported by conventional transport means. In particular, the base 100 has a particularly small planar footprint.

[0252] In particular, the plan footprint of the base 100 can be inscribed in a rectangle, while the rectangle has a particularly narrow width and length relative to the diameter of the needle holding mechanism of the knitting assembly mounted on the base. Advantageously, the dimensions and proportions of the base 100 ensure optimal use of the space within a container of a conventional transport device. For example, the base 100 according to the invention allows the transportation of at least two circular knitting machines of the "unfolded" type, with circular heads of up to 40 inches, in a 20-foot container of standard dimensions. Advantageously, the base 100 according to the invention allows the transportation of at least four circular knitting machines of the "unfolded" type, with circular heads of up to 40 inches, in a 40-foot container of standard dimensions.

[0253] In view of the above, the characteristics of the base 100 allow reducing the transportation costs of a circular knitting machine provided with a base of this type.

[0254] Furthermore, the base 100 also provides an optimal support for the components of the associated circular knitting machine M. Furthermore, the base 100 has a simple and rational structure.

[0255] Another advantage associated with the technical features of the base 100 is that a particularly convenient access to the accommodation space V below the knitting assembly 200 is provided. In particular, the dimensions of the main opening A1 ensure easy access to the accommodation space.

[0256] The circular knitting machine M provided with the base 100 thus allows the concerned person to operate in a practical and direct way on the final removal and / or collection group 300 housed in the housing space V. In fact, the position of the main opening A1 ensures that the insertion and / or extraction of the collection roller 301 is carried out at the front end of the circular knitting machine.

[0257] The insertion and / or extraction of the collecting roller 301 is not only practical and straightforward, but also allows more circular knitting machines to be installed side by side at a short distance from each other, thus optimizing the space at the installation site. Another advantage associated with the width of the main opening A1 is that maintenance and / or adjustment interventions on the circular knitting machines and / or the associated removal and / or collecting groups can be carried out easily and easily.

Claims

1. A base (100) for a circular weft knitting machine (M), the circular weft knitting machine (M) comprising a knitting assembly (200), the knitting assembly (200) being provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism (201) having the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; being provided with a plurality of needles, the plurality of needles being movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism; and being provided with a command device, the command device being suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics; The base (100) constitutes the contact point of the knitting machine (M) on the supporting plane (F) and supports the knitting assembly (200); The base (100) comprises: - an upper support element (4), preferably an upper support ring, on which the braiding assembly (200) is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism (201) can rotate around a central axis (R), which is substantially vertical to the bearing plane (F), and preferably perpendicular to the bearing plane (F); - at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) interposed between the upper supporting element (4) and the supporting plane (F), the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) being connected to the upper supporting element (4) so ​​that the upper supporting element is vertically spaced a distance from the supporting plane (F) along the central axis (R); The base (100) defines a receiving space (V) below the knitting assembly (200), the receiving space (V) being configured to allow the collection of knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly (200); wherein the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) are connected to the upper supporting element (4) at different and laterally spaced positions according to a coordinate circular sequence (1-2-3) around the central axis (R), and at least three openings (A1, A2, A3) are defined between consecutive pairs of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) according to the coordinate circular sequence (1-2-3), the at least three openings (A1, A2, A3) being configured to allow access to the accommodation space (V); The at least three openings (A1, A2, A3) include a main opening (A1) having a main width (W1) and at least two second openings (A2, A3) having respective second widths (W2, W3), wherein the main width (W1) is larger than the second widths (W2, W3).

2. The base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the main width (W1) of the main opening (A1) is at least 20% greater, preferably 30% greater, even more preferably 40% greater relative to the second width (W2, W3) of each of the at least two second openings (A2, A3); and / or wherein, The main width (W1) and the second width (W2, W3) are defined as the distances (D1, D2, D3) between each consecutive pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) according to a coordinate circular order (1-2-3).

3. A base (100) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each of the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) comprises a mutually continuous column (1M, 2M, 3M) and a beam (1T, 2T, 3T), the columns (1M, 2M, 3M) being arranged basically parallel to the central axis (R), and the beams (1T, 2T, 3T) being arranged basically perpendicular to the central axis (R); and / or wherein the beams (1T, 2T, 3T) are arranged from the upper element (4) in a direction away from the central axis (R); and / or wherein each of the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) has a basically "L"-shaped structure.

4. A base (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) extend at least partially in a radial direction relative to the central axis (R), and the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) define at least three angles (B1, B2, B3) around the central axis (R), each angle being defined by consecutive supporting leg pairs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) according to the coordinate circular order (1-2-3); and / or wherein, The at least three angles (B1, B2, B3) are defined by at least three vertical planes (P1, P2, P3), each of the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) corresponds to a vertical plane, and the at least three vertical planes (P1, P2, P3) include the central axis (R); and / or each vertical plane (P1, P2, P3) constitutes a symmetry plane of each supporting leg of the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3); and / or the at least three angles (B1, B2, B3) include the main axis (R). Angle (B1) and at least two second angles (B2, B3), the main angle (B1) being defined at the main opening (A1), and the at least two second angles (B2, B3) being defined at the at least two second openings (A2, A3); and / or wherein the main width (W1) is directly related to the main angle (B1), and each second width (W2, W3) is directly related to the associated second angle (B2, B3); and / or wherein the at least two second angles (B2, B3) have the same angular extension.

5. A base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) include at least one main supporting leg; and / or wherein the at least three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) include a main supporting leg (3) and at least two secondary supporting legs (1, 2); and / or wherein the horizontal layout (C3) of the main supporting leg (3) is larger than the horizontal layout (C1, C2) of the secondary supporting legs (1, 2); and / or wherein the horizontal layout (C3) of the main supporting leg (3) is at most 30% larger, preferably 20% larger, even more preferably 10% larger, relative to the horizontal layout (C1, C2) of the secondary supporting legs (1, 2); and / or wherein the secondary supporting legs (1, 2) have the same horizontal layout (C1, C2); and / or wherein the main opening (A1) is defined by the pair of secondary supporting legs (1, 2).

6. A base (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising three supporting legs (1, 2, 3), wherein the three supporting legs include a first supporting leg (1), a second supporting leg (2) and a third supporting leg (3), and the three supporting legs (1, 2, 3) define the main opening (A1) and two second openings (A2, A3); and / or wherein the main opening (A1) is defined between the first supporting leg (1) and the second supporting leg (2), and the two second openings (A2, A3) are respectively defined between the second supporting leg (2) and the third supporting leg (3) and between the third supporting leg (3) and the first supporting leg (1); and / or wherein the third supporting leg (3) is consistent with the main supporting leg.

7. A base (100) according to claims 5 and 6, wherein the at least three angles (B1, B2, B3) include the main angle (B1) and two second angles (B2, B3); and / or wherein the main angle (B1) is an angle greater than or equal to 130°, preferably greater than or equal to 140°, more preferably greater than or equal to 150°; and / or wherein the main angle (B1) is an angle less than or equal to 180°; and / or wherein the two second angles (B2, B3) include an angle less than 115°, preferably less than 110°, more preferably less than 100°; and / or wherein the second angles (B2, B3) include an angle greater than or equal to 90°; and / or wherein the second angles (B2, B3) are equal angles.

8. The base (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The plane size of the base (100) can be inscribed in a rectangle (L), the rectangle (L) has a long side (L1) and a short side (L2), the length of the long side (L1) is greater than the length of the short side (L2); and / or wherein, The ratio between the length of the long side (L1) and the length of the short side (L2) is included between 1.2 and 1.4, preferably the ratio is substantially equal to 1.3; and / or wherein the length of the short side (L2) of the rectangle (L) is less than or equal to 2280 mm, and / or wherein the length of the long side (L1) of the rectangle (L) is less than or equal to 2980 mm.

9. Circular weft knitting machine (M), comprising: - A base (100) according to any one of the preceding claims; - a knitting assembly (200) provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism (201) having the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; A plurality of needles are provided, the plurality of needles being movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism; and a command device is provided, the command device being suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the production of a knitted fabric; The base (100) is configured to support the braided assembly (200).

10. Circular knitting machine (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein said base (100) defines a housing space (V) below said knitting assembly (200); The circular knitting machine (M) comprises a collecting device (300) for the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly (200), wherein the collecting device (300) is at least partially accommodated in the accommodating space (V); And / or wherein said circular knitting machine (M) is a "spread-out" type circular knitting machine configured to produce and collect said knitted fabric in a single layer.

11. A circular knitting machine (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein the collecting device is a removal and / or collecting group (300) configured to automatically wind the knitted fabric produced by the knitting component (200) into a roll; the removal and / or collecting group can be moved in a rotational direction around the central axis (R); and / or wherein the removal and / or collecting group (300) includes a collecting roller (301), which is configured to wind and collect the knitted fabric produced by the knitting component (200) into a roll; and / or wherein the collecting roller (301) can be moved in a rotational direction around a first rotation axis (R1). movement; and / or wherein the longitudinal arrangement of the collecting roller (301) along the first rotation axis is smaller than the main width (W1) of the main opening (A1), and the longitudinal arrangement of the collecting roller (301) is smaller than the distance (D1) between the pair of supporting legs (1-2) defining the main opening (A1); and / or wherein the collecting roller (301) can be selectively associated with the removal and / or collection group (300), and the collecting roller (301) is configured to be inserted into the removal and / or collection group through the main opening (A1), and to be withdrawn from the removal and / or collection group.

12. Circular knitting machine (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein said taking-off and / or collecting group (300) comprises one or more of the following elements: an unwinding roller (302) or tensioning roller configured to interact with the knitted fabric advancing towards the collecting roller (301) in order to unwind the knitted fabric before winding on the collecting roller (301), the unwinding roller (302) being configured to rotate about a second axis of rotation (R2) and preferably arranged parallel to the collecting roller (301); - a pair of movable arms (303) configured to vary the distance between the unwinding roller (302) and the collecting roller (301); - at least one conveying roller (304) configured to tension the knitted fabric and push it towards the collecting roller (301), the at least one conveying roller (304) being configured to rotate about a third rotation axis (R3) and preferably arranged parallel to the collecting roller (301); - a flattening device (305) configured to determine a substantial flattening of the tubular shape of the knitted fabric; - a cutting device (306) configured to cut the knitted fabric longitudinally along a preferably vertical generatrix; - Spreading means (306) configured to open the knitted fabric.

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