Base for circular weft knitting machine provided with adjustment system and related adjustment method

Abstract

A base (100) for a circular weft knitting machine (M) comprising a knitting assembly (200) provided with a rotary needle holding mechanism (201), provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to the needle holding mechanism, provided with command means adapted to actuate the plurality of needles and to allow the manufacture of a knitted fabric; the base forms a contact point of the circular knitting machine on a bearing surface (F) and supports the knitting component; the base comprises: an upper support element (4) on which the knitting assembly is mounted such that the needle holding mechanism can rotate about a central axis (R); support legs (1, 2, 3) interposed between the upper support element and the bearing surface; a system (10) for adjusting the relative position between the support legs, the adjustment system comprising a spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) arranged between a pair of support legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) of the two support legs; the spacer assembly acts on the pair of support legs to determine a distance (D1, D2, D3) between the pair of support legs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The object of the present invention is to provide a base for a circular weft knitting machine. Specifically, the object of the present invention is to provide a base for a circular weft knitting machine provided with an adjustment system, more specifically, an adjustment system for adjusting the distance between the support legs of the base.

[0002] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular weft knitting machine comprising the base provided with the adjustment system.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the configuration of a base frame of a circular weft knitting machine. Background Art

[0004] As is well known, circular weft knitting machines can be used to manufacture various types of textiles, such as for making garments. These textiles can be garments and products that are essentially finished once produced by the knitting machine, and they can also undergo subsequent operations and processing, such as cutting, sewing, shaping and / or applying additional parts.

[0005] A circular weft knitting machine for producing textile products 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 equipped with a plurality of knockover sinkers movably arranged in radial seats obtained in an annular body (sinker crown) arranged around the needle-holding cylinder and configured to cooperate with the needles during the formation of a knitted fabric having an overall configuration at least partially tubular.

[0006] Furthermore, the circular knitting machine comprises a base, which constitutes a supporting structure of the knitting machine. Specifically, the base constitutes a mechanism for the knitting machine to contact a supporting surface (or ground) of an associated installation location. The base is then configured to support a knitting assembly, which is movably mounted on the base and vertically spaced from the supporting surface on which the circular knitting machine is located.

[0007] In general, the base of a circular knitting machine comprises an upper support ring (or an equivalent support element) on which the knitting assembly is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism can rotate about a vertical central axis. The base of the known type also comprises a plurality of support legs extending between the upper ring and the support surface. In particular, the support legs are connected to the upper ring and are spatially arranged around the central axis to ensure stable support of the knitting assembly.

[0008] The main function of this base is therefore to ensure the highest possible stability for the circular knitting machine, which has several moving parts during its operation. These parts can be particularly heavy and the relative movements between them can generate considerable vibration phenomena which, if transmitted to the knitting components, can produce flaws and / or defects in the knitted fabric produced.

[0009] For example, a known knitting machine base may include three supporting feet that are arranged radially around the central axis of the knitting machine in an equidistant manner, i.e. spaced at an angle of 120° around the central axis, to ensure optimal stability of the knitting assembly and minimize the risk of the knitting machine tipping over.

[0010] Typically, the support leg has an "L" configuration with a lower portion (generally vertical portion, contacting the support surface) and an upper portion (generally horizontal portion, connected to the upper ring). Thus, the support leg is connected to the upper ring at one end and contacts the support surface at the other end.

[0011] Furthermore, the base of a circular knitting machine of known type may comprise a lower base, referred to in the jargon as a "crossbeam", which generally has a substantially planar structure. The crossbeam is positioned in contact with the support surface and is inserted between the supporting legs of the knitting machine. The function of the crossbeam is to further reinforce the base of the knitting machine, connecting the supporting legs to each other substantially corresponding to their lower ends.

[0012] In particular, the purpose of the crossbeam is to prevent the risk of the supporting legs of the base collapsing and / or the knitting machine tipping over.

[0013] The crossbeam conventionally installed in the foundation of a circular knitting machine is connected to the lower end of the supporting legs and extends at least over the entire area inside them. Typically, the known crossbeam extends over the entire projection of the circular knitting machine on the support surface, connecting its supporting legs and increasing the contact surface between the circular knitting machine and the support surface.

[0014] The upper ring, the supporting legs and the base crossbeam of the known type define a volume below the knitting assembly in which a take-down and / or collection group can be accommodated and mounted. The take-down and / or collection group is configured to automate the process of winding the knitted fabric manufactured by the knitting assembly into a roll. In the documents WO2006 / 072969A1, WO2014 / 191868A1 and WO2017 / 081564A1 in the name of the applicant, some examples of bases used in circular knitting machines provided with a take-down and / or collection group are shown.

[0015] A circular knitting machine provided with such a base provides the best support when it is mounted on a completely flat and smooth surface. However, the supporting surface of the mounting location often has slight unevenness, which can affect the stability of the circular knitting machine structure and, in particular, can cause vibration phenomena during operation. As mentioned above, the occurrence of such vibration phenomena can lead to internal oscillations in the components of the knitting machine, which can affect the quality of the knitted fabrics produced, which may have flaws and / or defects, which may make it impossible to carry out subsequent processing and thus to produce the final textile product.

[0016] To overcome these drawbacks, some methods are used during the installation of circular knitting machines to adjust the opening of the supporting legs in order to guarantee optimal contact on the bearing surface and overall stability, so as not to affect the quality of the fabric produced by the knitting assembly. For example, these adjustment methods provide for the use of one or more spacers at the connection between the crossbar and the supporting legs in order to vary the distance between the supporting legs and thus achieve a stable support for the base. Obviously, the above-mentioned adjustment methods are particularly complex and time-consuming: in fact, they require a long installation time and qualified personnel to obtain an overall balanced configuration that meets the production requirements.

[0017] Furthermore, the Applicant has also noted that, due to the considerable weight of the knitting machine (especially the movable parts such as the knitting assembly and the possible removal and / or collection group), as well as the vibration phenomena that occur during the relevant operations, the initial configuration of the base may be altered, thus affecting the balance achieved during the installation phase. Therefore, in order to restore the initial state, new adjustment operations must be carried out, which requires long downtime of the knitting machine, resulting in a reduction in the efficiency of the entire production process.

[0018] Furthermore, the Applicant has noted that the base of the circular knitting machine of known type is very heavy. This feature complicates the transport of the knitting machine and requires special transport means to move it to the installation and production site.

[0019] The Applicant has also noticed that the base of a circular knitting machine of known type has considerable dimensions and is particularly heavy. In particular, in order to provide sufficient accommodation space for accommodating the removal and / or collection group, the base of a circular knitting machine of known type has a considerable height extension. As a result, the center of gravity of the circular knitting machine is located at a certain height from the supporting surface, which exposes the aforementioned circular knitting machine to a greater risk of tipping over. Summary of the invention

[0020] The Applicant has therefore noted certain limitations and drawbacks with regard to the contact of circular knitting machines on the support surface. In particular, the Applicant has noted that circular knitting machines of known type comprise a base whose stability is unstable and not permanent, which also has an impact on the quality of the knitted fabric produced, and on the efficiency of the entire production process.

[0021] As explained above, the known solutions to this situation have their limitations and do not provide a stable and lasting support. On the one hand, the conventional fixed base cannot easily adapt to the bearing surface of the installation location, which generally has slight differences in height and therefore does not allow sufficient stability to be achieved. On the other hand, the known bases provided with adjustment systems require complex configuration operations and do not guarantee that the balance achieved will be maintained over the long term.

[0022] The Applicant has also noted that known types of bases are bulky and heavy.

[0023] In this case, in various aspects and / or embodiments of the present invention, the purpose of the present invention is to propose a base for a circular weft knitting machine, a circular weft knitting machine, and a configuration adjustment method for a base for a circular weft knitting machine, which can solve the problems pointed out above and overcome the limitations of known technologies.

[0024] In particular, the object of the present invention is to propose a base for a circular knitting machine capable of adjusting its configuration so as to keep the knitting assembly in an optimal condition for manufacturing knitted fabrics whose structural and / or aesthetic characteristics can meet high quality requirements.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to describe a base for a circular knitting machine that ensures optimal support of the components of the aforementioned circular knitting machine.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide a base for a circular knitting machine which ensures permanent support of the aforementioned circular knitting machine.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a base for a circular knitting machine, the adjustment of which is simple, quick and intuitive.

[0028] Another object of the present invention is to provide a chassis for a circular knitting machine that allows configuration adjustments to be made even after the mounting step, without requiring prolonged downtime of the machine.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to provide a base for a circular knitting machine, the base being characterized by a simple and rational structure.

[0030] Another object of the invention is to propose a base for a circular knitting machine which has a small footprint and is particularly light.

[0031] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular knitting machine provided with the above-mentioned base.

[0032] Yet another object of the present invention is to propose a circular knitting machine which has a particularly stable structure.

[0033] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular knitting machine capable of producing knitted fabrics free from defects and / or flaws due to unstable contact with the supporting surface.

[0034] Another object of the present invention is to propose a circular knitting machine that is easy to install thanks to a simple and intuitive adjustment system of the base.

[0035] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular knitting machine that allows a quick and easy adjustment of the base configuration even after first installation and thus allows instant restoration of the optimally balanced configuration for the manufacture of high-quality fabrics.

[0036] The object of the present invention is also to propose a circular knitting machine which is particularly reliable and efficient and in which maintenance and / or adjustment interventions are reduced to a minimum. In particular, the object of the present invention is to reduce the downtimes of the circular knitting machine caused by maintenance interventions and / or adjustments due to suboptimal contact with the bearing surface.

[0037] Another object of the invention is to propose a method for adjusting the configuration of a base for a circular knitting machine that is particularly simple and straightforward to carry out.

[0038] Another object of the present invention is to provide a configuration adjustment method for a chassis of a circular knitting machine that is accurate, stable and durable.

[0039] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for adjusting the configuration of a chassis for a circular knitting machine that is quick and non-invasive to perform.

[0040] Still, another object of the invention is to show a configuration adjustment method for a chassis of a circular knitting machine that is repeatable even after the circular knitting machine has been installed for the first time.

[0041] These objects and any other objects are basically achieved by a base for a circular weft knitting machine, a circular weft knitting machine, and a configuration adjustment method for a base for a circular knitting machine according to one or more of the attached claims and according to the following aspects and / or embodiments combined in various ways (which can also be combined with the above claims), and these objects and any other objects will become clearer in the following description.

[0042] In a first aspect, the invention has as its object a bed for a circular weft knitting machine.

[0043] In one aspect, a circular knitting machine includes a knitting assembly provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to at least one needle holding mechanism, and provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of fabrics.

[0044] In one aspect, the base constitutes the contact point of the circular knitting machine on the support surface and supports the knitting assembly.

[0045] In one aspect, the base comprises:

[0046] an upper support element, preferably an upper support ring, on which the knitting assembly is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism can rotate about a central axis that is substantially vertical and preferably perpendicular to the support surface;

[0047] at least two supporting legs interposed between the upper supporting element and the supporting surface, the at least two legs being connected to the upper supporting element in different and laterally spaced positions such that the upper supporting element is located vertically along the central axis at a distance from the supporting surface;

[0048] - An adjustment system for the relative position between at least two legs, the adjustment system comprising at least one spacer assembly interposed between a pair of supporting legs of the at least two supporting legs.

[0049] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly is operatively coupled to the pair of support legs and is operable to determine a distance between the pair of support legs.

[0050] According to one aspect, at least one spacer assembly is operable to move the pair of support legs in both a tendency toward each other and a tendency toward each other.

[0051] The expression "moving a pair of legs toward approaching and away from each other" means that at least one spacer component is configured to move the pair of supporting legs toward and away from each other, or similarly configured to reduce or increase the distance between the pair of supporting legs.

[0052] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly can function to decrease the distance between pairs of support legs and to increase the distance between pairs of support legs.

[0053] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly can function to bring the pair of support legs closer together and to move the pair of support legs further apart.

[0054] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly is configured to selectively maintain, increase, or decrease a distance between pairs of support legs.

[0055] In one aspect, the spacer assembly, when in use, can function to move the pair of support legs towards and away from each other, i.e. to reduce and increase the distance between the pair of support legs. According to said aspect, the spacer assembly can be actuated after the base has been installed, i.e. also after the circular knitting machine has been installed.

[0056] In one aspect, the spacer assembly is configured to selectively exert a pulling action on the pair of support legs or exert a pushing action on the pair of support legs. According to this aspect, the spacer assembly can selectively function to actuate the pulling action and to actuate the pushing action.

[0057] In one aspect, the pulling action is configured to move the pair of supporting legs towards each other, ie, configured to reduce the distance between the pair of supporting legs.

[0058] In one aspect, the pushing action is configured to move the pair of support legs away from each other, ie, configured to increase the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0059] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly operatively acts between the pair of support legs in a connection direction to reduce the distance between the pair of support legs and to increase the distance between the pair of support legs. In one aspect, the connection direction is a straight line through the pair of support legs, i.e., a straight direction connecting the pair of support legs, along which the distance is measured. In a preferred aspect, the connection direction is parallel to the support surface.

[0060] In one aspect, the spacer assembly provides a first adjustment direction and a second adjustment direction, the first adjustment direction is configured to move the pair of support legs toward each other, and the second adjustment direction is configured to move the pair of support legs away from each other. In other words, the spacer assembly provides a first adjustment direction and a second adjustment direction, the first adjustment direction is configured to reduce the distance between the pair of support legs, and the second adjustment direction is configured to increase the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0061] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly is in use in contact with each support leg of the support leg pair. According to this aspect, the spacer assembly acts directly on the support leg pair to selectively move the support leg pair toward and away from each other.

[0062] In an aspect, each of the at least two supporting legs extends vertically between a lower end in contact with the bearing surface and an upper end connected, preferably fixed, to the upper supporting element.

[0063] In one aspect, each of the at least two support legs includes a column and a beam, wherein the column is arranged generally vertically and one end thereof coincides with the lower end, and the beam is arranged generally horizontally and one end thereof coincides with the upper end.

[0064] In one aspect, the column and the cross beam are preferably integrally joined at an end of the column opposite the lower end and at an end of the cross beam opposite the upper end. According to this aspect, each support leg is of generally "L" shaped configuration.

[0065] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly, in use, contacts each support leg of the pair of support legs substantially at the respective lower end.

[0066] In one aspect, the base includes a plurality of support legs. According to the aspect, the plurality of support legs includes N support legs, and the number of support legs N is greater than or equal to three (N≥3).

[0067] In one aspect, a plurality of support legs extend from the upper support element at least partially away from the central axis. Specifically, a crossbeam of each support leg extends horizontally from the upper support element at a distance from the central axis.

[0068] In an aspect, the upper ends of at least two support legs are connected to the upper support element at different parts of the upper support element itself.

[0069] In one aspect, a plurality of support legs extend from the upper support element in a radially distributed manner at a distance from the central axis, ie, the plurality of support legs extend radially with respect to the central axis. Specifically, a crossbeam of each support leg extends in a direction radial with respect to the central axis.

[0070] In one aspect, the plurality of support legs define equal amounts of angles between successive support legs in a radial distribution about the central axis. According to this aspect, the plurality of legs define a uniform radial radiation about the central axis.

[0071] In an alternative aspect, the plurality of support legs define different angles between successive support legs in a radial distribution about the central axis.

[0072] In one aspect, a plurality of support legs are connected to and extend from the upper support element in different and laterally spaced locations according to a circular sequence about the central axis.

[0073] In one aspect, the adjustment system comprises a plurality of spacer assemblies. In one aspect, the adjustment system comprises at least N-1 spacer assemblies, wherein N is the number of support legs of the base. Preferably, the adjustment system comprises N spacer assemblies.

[0074] In one aspect, each of the plurality of spacer assemblies is interposed between a pair of consecutive support legs according to a circular order. According to this aspect, the plurality of spacer assemblies and the plurality of support legs are configured to define a perimeter of the base that interconnects the plurality of consecutive support legs according to a circular order.

[0075] In one aspect, the base comprises no components located in the area externally defined by the perimeter.According to this aspect, the area defined by the perimeter is free of components of the base.

[0076] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly includes two lateral elements configured to connect the spacer assembly to a corresponding support leg in the pair of support legs. Specifically, at least one spacer assembly includes a first lateral element and a second lateral element, the first lateral element is configured to connect to one support leg in the pair of support legs, and the second lateral element is configured to connect to the other support leg in the pair of support legs.

[0077] In one aspect, at least one spacer assembly comprises a central element interposed between two lateral elements.

[0078] In one aspect, the central element extends between a first end and a second end. In particular, the central element is connected to the first lateral element at the first end and to the second lateral element at the second end.

[0079] In one aspect, the central element is movable relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element. According to this aspect, the movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element determines the movement of the pair of supporting legs connected by the associated spacer assembly towards each other or away from each other. According to this aspect, the movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element determines the increase or decrease of the distance between the pair of supporting legs connected by the associated spacer assembly.

[0080] In an aspect, the first adjustment direction provides a movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element, which is different, preferably opposite, from the movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element provided by the second adjustment direction.

[0081] In one aspect, the first lateral element is configured to be fixed to one support leg of the pair of support legs and / or the second lateral element is configured to be fixed to the other support leg of the pair of support legs.

[0082] In an aspect, the central element is connected to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element by a helical constraint, preferably by threads.

[0083] In one aspect, the central element includes a first central thread at the first end, and the first lateral element includes a first lateral thread, the first central thread and the first lateral thread being mateable therebetween to connect the central element to the first lateral element.

[0084] In one aspect, the central element includes a second central thread at the second end, and the second lateral element includes a second lateral thread, the second central thread and the second lateral thread being mateable therebetween to connect the central element to the second lateral element.

[0085] In one aspect, the first lateral element comprises a first seat having a first lateral thread. The first seat is configured to receive the first end of the central element by mutually tightening the first central thread and the first lateral thread so as to constrain the central element and the first lateral element.

[0086] In an alternative aspect, the central element comprises a first seat in which the first seat acquires the first central thread. According to this aspect, the first seat is configured to receive, by screwing, a portion of the first lateral element in which the first lateral thread is acquired so as to constrain the central element with the first lateral element.

[0087] In one aspect, the second lateral element comprises a second seat having a second lateral thread. The second seat is configured to receive the second end of the central element by mutually tightening the second central thread and the second lateral thread so as to constrain the central element and the second lateral element.

[0088] In an alternative aspect, the central element comprises a second seat in which the second central thread is obtained. According to this aspect, the second seat is configured to receive, by screwing, a portion of the second lateral element in which the second lateral thread is obtained so as to constrain the central element with the second lateral element.

[0089] In one aspect, the first central thread and the first lateral thread have an opposite trend compared to the second central thread and the second lateral thread. In one embodiment, the first central thread and the first lateral thread have right-hand threads, while the second central thread and the second lateral thread have left-hand threads. In an alternative embodiment, the first central thread and the first lateral thread have left-hand threads, while the second central thread and the second lateral thread have right-hand threads.

[0090] In an alternative aspect, the first central thread, the second central thread, the first lateral thread, and the second lateral thread all have the same trend.

[0091] In one aspect, the spacer assembly is configured to be manually actuated to move the pair of support legs in both a mutually approaching and mutually distant tendency. In other words, the spacer assembly is configured to be manually actuated to increase and decrease the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0092] In one aspect, the adjustment system comprises a manual actuation device which is selectively connectable to the central element and / or to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element to move the pair of supporting legs both in a tendency to approach each other and in a tendency to move away from each other, i.e. to increase as well as to decrease the distance between the pair of supporting legs. Preferably, the manual actuation device is selectively connectable to the central part and is configured to be actuated so as to move the central element relative to the first element and / or the second lateral element.

[0093] In one aspect, the spacer assembly comprises an electronic actuation device operatively acting on the central element and / or on the first lateral element and / or on the second lateral element to move the pair of support legs both towards each other and away from each other, i.e. to reduce and increase the distance between the pair of support legs. Preferably, the electronic actuation device comprises an electric motor.

[0094] In one aspect, the spacer assembly includes a pneumatic or hydraulic actuating device that operatively acts on a central element and / or on a first lateral element and / or on a second lateral element to move the pair of support legs in both a direction toward and away from each other, i.e., to reduce and increase the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0095] In one aspect, the spacer assembly includes at least one fastener configured to selectively allow or inhibit relative movement between the central element and the first lateral element and / or relative movement between the central element and / or the second lateral element. In one aspect, the fastener is configured to selectively associate with the spacer assembly to inhibit relative movement between the central element and the first lateral element and / or relative movement between the central element and the second lateral element.

[0096] In one aspect, the central element comprises at least one rod-shaped element. The rod-shaped element extends between a first end and a second end. In particular, the rod-shaped element extends between the first end and the second end and between the pair of supporting legs along the connection direction.

[0097] In one aspect, the rod-shaped element is of substantially tubular configuration. In particular, a cross section of the rod-shaped element along a plane perpendicular to the connection direction is of substantially circular shape.

[0098] In an aspect, a first central thread and a second central thread are obtained on the outer surface of the rod-like element at the first end and the second end, respectively.

[0099] In one aspect, the first lateral element comprises a first connection block. Specifically, the first connection block is configured to be mounted on, preferably fixed to, a support leg of the pair of support legs. In one aspect, the first connection block comprises a first seat, which comprises a first lateral thread. The first seat is configured to receive the first end of the rod-shaped element by a helical connection between a first central thread and a first lateral thread. In another aspect, the first connection block is a threaded bracket, which is configured to be fixed to a support leg of the pair of support legs (or mounted in a fixed position) by a fastener, such as by a plurality of screws.

[0100] In one aspect, the second lateral element comprises a second connection block. Specifically, the second connection block is configured to be mounted on, preferably fixed to, a support leg of the pair of support legs, preferably the support leg being opposite to the support leg on which the first connection block is mounted. In one aspect, the second connection block comprises a second seat comprising a second lateral thread. The second seat is configured to receive the second end of the rod-shaped element by a helical connection between a second central thread and a second lateral thread. In another aspect, the second connection block is a threaded bracket, which is configured to be fixed to a support leg of the pair of support legs (or mounted in a fixed position) by a fastener, such as by a plurality of screws.

[0101] In one aspect, the rod-shaped element is movable relative to the first connection block in a rotational tendency about the connection direction. The rotation of the rod-shaped element about the connection direction determines the translation of the rod-shaped element along the connection direction. In particular, the rotation of the rod-shaped element about the connection direction determines a greater or lesser penetration of the first end into the first seat of the first connection block depending on the rotational tendency.

[0102] In one aspect, the rod-shaped element is movable relative to the second connection block in a rotational tendency about the connection direction. The rotation of the rod-shaped element about the connection direction determines the translation of the rod-shaped element along the connection direction. In particular, the rotation of the rod-shaped element about the connection direction determines a greater or lesser penetration of the second end into the second seat of the second connection element depending on the rotational tendency.

[0103] In one aspect, the rod-shaped element, the first connecting block and the second connecting block do not change their size during the movement of the pair of legs in a trend toward approaching each other or in a trend toward moving away from each other. In particular, the movement of the pair of legs in a trend toward approaching each other or in a trend toward moving away from each other determines the change of the connection between the rod-shaped element, the first connecting block and the second connecting block.

[0104] In an aspect, the reduction in the distance between the pair of legs is determined by a greater penetration of the rod-shaped element in a first seat of the first connecting block and / or a greater penetration of the rod-shaped element in a second seat of the second connecting block.

[0105] In an aspect, the increase in the distance between the pair of legs is determined by a lower degree of penetration of the rod-shaped element in a first seat of the first connecting block and / or a lower degree of penetration of the rod-shaped element in a second seat of the second connecting block.

[0106] In one aspect, the rod-shaped element constitutes a threaded central column, which is inserted between the first and second connecting blocks. According to this aspect, the first central thread and the first lateral thread have opposite tendencies compared to the second central thread and the second lateral thread. According to this embodiment, the first central thread and the first lateral thread have right-hand threads, while the second central thread and the second lateral thread have left-hand threads, or vice versa.

[0107] In one aspect, the rotation of the rod-shaped element in the first rotational trend determines the movement of the pair of supporting legs in a trend of approaching each other, i.e., a reduction in the distance between the pair of supporting legs. Specifically, the rotation of the rod-shaped element in the first rotational trend simultaneously determines a greater penetration of the first end in the first seat and a greater penetration of the second end in the second seat. As a result, the distance between the first connecting block and the second connecting block is reduced. In a state where the first connecting block and the second connecting block are integral with the corresponding supporting legs of the pair of supporting legs, the pair of supporting legs moves in a trend of approaching each other. In particular, in this case, the spacer assembly applies a pulling action that is suitable for reducing the distance between the pair of supporting legs. In one aspect, the first rotational trend is consistent with the first adjustment trend.

[0108] In one aspect, the rotation of the rod-shaped element in a second rotational trend (preferably, opposite to the first rotational trend) determines the movement of the support leg pair in a moving away trend, i.e., an increase in the distance between the support leg pairs. Specifically, the rotation of the rod-shaped element in the second rotational trend simultaneously determines a lower degree of penetration of the first end in the first seat and a lower degree of penetration of the second end in the second seat. Therefore, the distance between the first connecting block and the second connecting block increases. In a state where the first connecting block and the second connecting block are integrated with the corresponding support legs in the support leg pair, the support leg pair moves in a moving away trend. In particular, in this case, the spacer assembly applies a pushing action that is suitable for increasing the distance between the support leg pairs. In one aspect, the second rotational trend is consistent with the second adjustment trend.

[0109] In one aspect, the rod-shaped element comprises a removable seat configured to allow the coupling between the manual actuation device and the spacer assembly. The seat is configured to receive the manual actuation device in a removable manner so as to allow the movement between the pair of supporting legs both in a tendency to approach each other and in a tendency to move away from each other, and thus to allow a reduction or increase in the distance between the pair of supporting legs. In an embodiment, the seat is a hole obtained on the outer surface of the rod-shaped element in a position between the first end and the second end, preferably in a midpoint between the first end and the second end.

[0110] In one aspect, the manual actuation device comprises an adjustment rod adapted to be selectively inserted into the seat and configured to be manually actuated by a user to move the pair of support legs in both a mutually approaching tendency and a mutually distant tendency, and then to reduce or increase the distance between the pair of support legs. In one aspect, the adjustment rod is configured to determine a mechanical advantage on the rotation of the rod-shaped element about the connection direction.

[0111] In one aspect, at least one fastener comprises at least one nut configured to be tightened on the first central thread or on the second central thread at a contact point between the rod-shaped element and the first connection block or at a contact point between the rod-shaped element and the second connection block. The at least one nut is configured to selectively inhibit rotation of the rod-shaped element relative to the first connection block and / or the second connection block.

[0112] According to a further aspect, the present description has as its object a circular weft knitting machine.

[0113] In an aspect, a circular knitting machine comprises a chassis according to one or more of the above aspects.

[0114] In one aspect, a circular knitting machine includes a knitting assembly provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to at least one needle holding mechanism, and provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of fabrics.

[0115] In one aspect, the base is configured to support the knitting assembly. According to this aspect, the knitting assembly is vertically spaced relative to a support surface of the knitting machine. Specifically, at least two support legs of the base determine that there is a certain distance between the knitting assembly and the support surface along the central axis.

[0116] In one aspect, the needle holding mechanism is movable in a rotational direction about a substantially vertical central axis. During the rotation of the needle holding mechanism, a plurality of needles movably mounted on at least one needle holding mechanism cooperate with at least the command device to allow the fabric to be manufactured.

[0117] According to one aspect, the knitting assembly comprises at least one rotating sinker holder mechanism of known type, which accommodates a plurality of inverting sinkers and is 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 inverting sinkers. The plurality of inverting sinkers are configured to cooperate with a plurality of needles during the manufacturing process of the knitted fabric.

[0118] In one aspect, the base defines a receiving space below the knitting assembly. According to said aspect, the receiving space is configured to receive a collecting device for a knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly. Preferably, the collecting device is a take-off and / or collecting group configured to automate the roll winding of the knitted fabric produced by the knitting machine. In one aspect, the collecting device is movable relative to the base, preferably rotatable about a central axis in an integral manner with the needle holder mechanism.

[0119] In one aspect, the collecting device is entirely suspended from the base and supported by the base, or the collecting device is entirely suspended from the needle holding mechanism and supported by the needle holding mechanism. In particular, the collecting device does not provide a supporting device at the support surface of the knitting machine. According to this aspect, the collecting device is defined as "suspended" from the circular knitting machine.

[0120] In an alternative aspect, the collecting device comprises means for contacting a support surface of the knitting machine. For example, the contact means of the collecting device comprises a plurality of wheels or supports configured to at least partially support a load of the collecting device and configured to allow it to move during operation of the knitting machine.

[0121] According to a further aspect, the invention also has as its object a method for adjusting the configuration of a base for a circular knitting machine.

[0122] In one aspect, the adjustment method is an adjustment method for a base for a circular knitting machine according to one or more of the preceding aspects.

[0123] In one aspect, the adjustment method comprises the steps of placing a base, the base comprising at least the following elements:

[0124] - an upper support element, preferably an upper support ring;

[0125] - At least two supporting legs, which are inserted between the upper supporting element and the supporting surface, and the at least two legs are connected to the upper supporting element in different and laterally spaced positions, so that the upper supporting element is vertically at a certain distance from the supporting surface along a central axis (the central axis is preferably perpendicular to the supporting surface).

[0126] In one aspect, the adjustment method includes the step of arranging an adjustment system for the relative position between at least two legs, the adjustment system including at least one spacer assembly interposed between a pair of support legs of the at least two support legs.

[0127] In one aspect, the adjustment method includes the step of mounting a knitting assembly on an upper support element. Specifically, the knitting assembly is movably mounted to the upper support element.

[0128] In one aspect, the knitting assembly includes at least one rotating needle holding mechanism in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to at least one needle holding mechanism, and provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics.

[0129] According to one aspect, the knitting assembly comprises at least one rotating sinker holder mechanism of known type, which accommodates a plurality of inverting sinkers and is 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 inverting sinkers. The plurality of inverting sinkers are configured to cooperate with a plurality of needles during the manufacturing process of the knitted fabric.

[0130] In one aspect, the adjustment method includes the step of adjusting the configuration of the base by actuating at least one spacer element to selectively move the associated pair of support legs in both a mutually approaching tendency and a mutually distant tendency. The step of adjusting the configuration of the base includes: at least one spacer element is actuated to selectively move the associated pair of support legs in a mutually approaching tendency or in a mutually distant tendency.

[0131] In one aspect, the step of adjusting the configuration of the base includes at least one spacer element being actuated to decrease the distance between the associated pair of support legs and to increase the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0132] In one aspect, the step of adjusting the configuration of the base comprises: at least one spacer element is actuated to apply a pulling action adapted to reduce the distance between the associated pair of support legs and a pushing action adapted to increase the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0133] In an aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system comprises placing at least one spacer system in contact with both support legs of an associated pair of support legs.

[0134] In one aspect, the step of positioning the base includes: the base includes a plurality of support legs, preferably N support legs, wherein N is greater than or equal to 3 (N≥3). In one aspect, the N support legs are connected to the upper support element in different and laterally spaced positions according to a circular order around the central axis.

[0135] In one aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system comprises: the adjustment system comprises a plurality of spacer assemblies. Preferably, the adjustment system comprises at least N-1 spacer assemblies, wherein N is the number of support legs of the base. Even more preferably, the adjustment system comprises N spacer assemblies.

[0136] In one aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system includes inserting each of the plurality of spacer assemblies between pairs of connected support legs according to a circular order. According to this aspect, the plurality of spacer assemblies and the plurality of support legs are configured to define a perimeter of the base that interconnects the plurality of pairs of connected support legs according to a circular order.

[0137] In one aspect, the step of adjusting includes: actuating at least one spacer assembly in a first adjustment tendency or in a second adjustment tendency, the first adjustment tendency being configured to move the pair of support legs in a tendency to approach each other, and the second adjustment tendency being configured to move the pair of support legs in a tendency to move away from each other. In other words, the step of adjusting includes: the spacer assembly is actuated in a first adjustment tendency or in a second adjustment tendency, the first adjustment tendency being configured to reduce the distance between the pair of support legs, and the second adjustment tendency being configured to increase the distance between the pair of support legs.

[0138] In one aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system comprises: each spacer assembly comprises a central element, a first lateral element and a second lateral element. Specifically, the central element is interposed between the first lateral element and the second lateral element.

[0139] In an aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system comprises that the central element is movably connected to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element.

[0140] In an aspect, the step of adjusting provides a relative movement between the central element and the first lateral element and / or a relative movement between the central element and the second lateral element.

[0141] In one aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system comprises: the first lateral element is connected, preferably fixed, to one support leg of the pair of support legs and / or the second lateral element is connected, preferably fixed, to the other support leg of the pair of support legs.

[0142] In one aspect, the adjusting step comprises: a first adjustment tendency determines a movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element, which movement is different, preferably opposite, to the movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element determined by a second adjustment tendency.

[0143] In an aspect, the step of arranging the adjustment system comprises connecting the central element to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element by means of a helical constraint, preferably by means of threads.

[0144] In one aspect, the step of adjusting provides for a rotation of the central element about an associated longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis being parallel, preferably coincident, with a connection direction between the pair of support legs interconnected by the spacer assembly. In one aspect, the step of adjusting comprises: a first adjustment tendency determining a rotation of the central element about the longitudinal axis that is different, preferably opposite, relative to a rotation of the central element about the longitudinal axis determined by a second adjustment tendency.

[0145] In one aspect, the step of adjusting provides a tightening of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element. Specifically, the first adjustment tendency provides a tightening of the central element in a different, preferably opposite, direction than the tightening of the central element provided by the second adjustment tendency.

[0146] In one aspect, the step of adjusting comprises that at least one spacer assembly is manually actuated. Preferably, the step of adjusting comprises that at least one spacer assembly is manually actuated by a manual actuation device, which is selectively connectable to the central element and / or to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element. In one aspect, the step of adjusting comprises that the manual actuation device is connected to the central element and / or to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element, and the connected elements are subsequently moved according to the first adjustment tendency or the second adjustment tendency.

[0147] According to one aspect, the adjustment method includes the step of fixing the configuration of the base by placing a fastener on at least one of the spacer components.

[0148] Further characteristics and advantages will become more apparent from the detailed description of preferred but not exclusive embodiments of a base for a circular weft knitting machine, a circular weft knitting machine and a method for adjusting the configuration of a base for a circular weft knitting machine according to the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0149] The following description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes only and are therefore non-limiting, in which:

[0150] - Figure 1 A perspective view showing an embodiment of a base for a circular knitting machine provided with an adjustment system according to the invention;

[0151] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 Another perspective view of the base in the;

[0152] - Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A front view of the base in FIG.

[0153] - Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A top view of the base in FIG.

[0154] - Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 A bottom view of the base in FIG.

[0155] - Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 1 Details of the base of the view;

[0156] - Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 5 Details of the base of the view;

[0157] - Figure 8 shows a perspective view of an adjustment system according to the invention, the adjustment system being isolated from the rest of the base in which it is used;

[0158] - Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 Details of the components of the regulation system;

[0159] - Fig.10 Shows Figure 8 An exploded view of the components of the regulating system;

[0160] - Fig.11 Shows the use of Figures 1 to 10 A perspective view of a circular knitting machine with a base in FIG.

[0161] - Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 Another perspective view of the circular knitting machine in;

[0162] - Fig.13 Shows Fig.11 A perspective view of a circular knitting machine in FIG. 1 , which also includes some optional additional components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0163] With reference to the above drawings, reference numeral 100 denotes as a whole a base for a circular weft knitting machine M according to the present invention, which for the sake of simplicity is hereinafter referred to as base 100. Generally, identical or similar elements are eventually provided with the same reference numerals in their variant embodiments.

[0164] like Fig.11 and Fig.12As shown, the base 100 is configured to be used in the context of a circular weft knitting machine M, which for simplicity is hereinafter referred to as machine M. As shown above, the machine M includes a knitting assembly 200, which is provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism 201 in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, a plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism, and a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics. In particular, the base 100 constitutes a contact point of the machine M on the support surface F and supports the knitting assembly 200. The needle holding mechanism 201 rotates around a central axis R and is configured to manufacture a knitted fabric of a structure 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 support surface F.

[0165] It should be pointed out that in the present document, the terms "below", "lower", "beneath", "below" and similar terms, as well as their antonyms "upper", "upper", "over", "above" and similar terms should be regarded as referring to the machine M in use with respect to the vertical direction, i.e. perpendicular to the supporting surface F.

[0166] Similarly, the terms "vertical", "vertically", "horizontal", "horizontally" and similar terms should be meant to refer to the machine M in use, wherein the vertical direction and the horizontal direction are orthogonal to each other. Preferably, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the support surface F, and the horizontal direction is parallel to the support surface.

[0167] As shown in the drawings, the base 100 includes:

[0168] - an upper support element 4, preferably an upper support ring, on which the knitting assembly 200 is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism 201 can rotate about the central axis R;

[0169] at least two supporting legs 1, 2, 3 interposed between the upper supporting element 4 and the bearing surface F, connected to the upper supporting element 4 in different and laterally spaced positions such that the upper supporting element 4 is vertically at a distance from the bearing surface F along the central axis R;

[0170] A relative position adjustment system 10 between at least two legs 1 , 2 , 3 , comprising at least one spacer assembly 12 , 13 , 23 interposed between pairs of at least two supporting legs 1 , 2 , 3 .

[0171] In particular, at least one spacer assembly 12, 13, 23 operatively acts on a pair of support legs and is operable to determine a distance D1, D2, D3 between the pair of support legs.

[0172] Specifically, at least one spacer assembly 12, 13, 23 can function to selectively move the pair of support legs in both a mutually approaching trend V1 and a mutually away trend V2. Specifically, each spacer assembly 12, 13, 23 operatively acts on the associated pair of support legs and can function to selectively move the pair of support legs in both a mutually approaching trend V1 and a mutually away trend V2.

[0173] The expression "moving a pair of legs both toward approaching each other toward V1 and away from each other toward V2" means that the spacer components 12, 13, 23 are configured to move the relevant supporting leg pairs toward each other and away from each other, or similarly configured to reduce or increase the distance between the supporting leg pairs.

[0174] For the sake of simplicity, in this description, reference is mainly made to the embodiment of the base 100 shown in the drawings. The base 100 shown includes three support legs, namely a first support leg 1, a second support leg 2 and a third support leg 3. The adjustment system 10 of the base 100 includes the following three adjustment components:

[0175] - an adjustment assembly 12, which is located between the first pair of supporting legs 1-2, the first pair of supporting legs being a pair of supporting legs consisting of the first supporting leg 1 and the second supporting leg 2;

[0176] - an adjustment assembly 23, which is located between the second pair of supporting legs 2-3, the second pair of supporting legs being the supporting leg pair consisting of the second supporting leg 2 and the supporting leg 3;

[0177] An adjustment assembly 13 , which is located between the third pair of supporting legs 3 - 1 , ie the supporting leg pair consisting of the third supporting leg 3 and the first supporting leg 1 .

[0178] The present description is made in an absolutely exemplary and non-limiting manner, as bases 100 having a different number of legs, provided with adjustment systems 10 including a different number of adjustment assemblies are still considered to be included for the purposes of the present description.

[0179] Reference is now made primarily to the adjustment assembly 12 between the first pair of supporting legs 1-2, i.e., between the first supporting leg 1 and the second supporting leg 2. What has been said with respect to the adjustment assembly 12 is to be regarded as valid and applies mutatis mutandis to the other adjustment assemblies 13, 23 provided with the adjustment system 10.

[0180] According to the above, the adjustment assembly 12 can function to move the related support leg pairs 1-2 both toward approaching each other V1 and away from each other V2. In other words, the spacer assembly 12 can function to reduce the distance D1 between the support leg pairs 1-2 and increase the distance D1 between the support leg pairs 1-2. Alternatively, the spacer assembly 12 can function to bring the related support leg pairs 1-2 closer and move the support leg pairs away. Thus, the spacer assembly 12 is selectively configured to maintain (when not actuated), increase or reduce (when actuated) the distance D1 between the support leg pairs 1-2.

[0181] Specifically, the spacer assembly 12 can function when in use to move the pair of support legs 1-2 both toward a mutual approach V1 and toward a mutual distance V2, i.e., to reduce and increase the distance D1. Thus, the spacer assembly 12 can be actuated after the base 100 is installed, i.e., even after the machine M is installed.

[0182] According to the above, the spacer assembly 12 is configured to selectively apply a pulling action to the support leg pair 1-2 or a pushing action to the support leg pair 1-2. It should be noted that the spacer assembly 12 can function to selectively actuate the pulling action as well as the pushing action. Specifically, the pulling action is configured to move the support leg pair 1-2 in a mutually approaching direction V1, i.e., configured to reduce the distance D1 between the support leg pair 1-2. On the contrary, the pushing action is configured to move the support leg pair 1-2 in a mutually moving away direction V2, i.e., configured to increase the distance D1 between the support leg pair 1-2.

[0183] The spacer assembly 12 is operative to act between the pair of supporting legs 1-2 along the connection direction X1 to reduce the distance D1 and to increase the distance D2. Figure 4 As shown, the connection direction X1 is a straight line passing through the support leg pair 1-2, that is, a straight direction connecting the support leg pair 1-2, and the distance D1 is measured along this direction. Preferably, the connection direction X1 is parallel to the support surface F.

[0184] like Figure 1 As shown, the spacer assembly 12 provides a first adjustment direction S1 and a second adjustment direction S2, the first adjustment direction is configured to move the support leg pair 1-2 in a mutually approaching trend V1, and the second adjustment direction is configured to move the support leg pair 1-2 in a mutually away trend V2. In other words, the spacer assembly 12 provides a first adjustment direction S1 and a second adjustment direction S2, the first adjustment direction is configured to reduce the distance D1, and the second adjustment direction is configured to increase the distance D1.

[0185] According to the drawings, the spacer assembly 12 contacts each support leg 1, 2 in the support leg pair 1-2 when in use. Specifically, the spacer assembly 12 directly acts on the support leg pair 1-2 to move the support leg pair in a mutually approaching trend V1 and a mutually moving away trend V2.

[0186] Each support leg 1, 2, 3 extends vertically between a lower end 1D, 2D, 3D and an upper end 1U, 2U, 3U, the lower end being in contact with the bearing surface F, and the upper end being connected and preferably fixed to the upper support element 4. In the embodiment shown, each support leg 1, 2, 3 comprises a column 1M, 2M, 3M, which is arranged substantially vertically and one end of which coincides with the lower end 1D, 2D, 3D, and a crossbeam 1T, 2T, 3T, which is arranged substantially horizontally and one end of which coincides with the upper end. The columns 1M, 2M, 3M and the crossbeams 1T, 2T, 3T are preferably integrally joined at one end of the columns opposite to the lower end and at one end of the crossbeams opposite to the upper end. Therefore, as clearly shown in the figures, each support leg 1, 2, 3 has a substantially "L"-shaped configuration.

[0187] Preferably, at least one spacer assembly 12 contacts each support leg of the support leg pair 1-2 substantially at the respective lower end ID, 2D in use.

[0188] As mentioned above, the base 100 includes a plurality of support legs 1, 2, 3. Specifically, the plurality of support legs includes N support legs, wherein N is greater than or equal to three (N≥3).

[0189] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As clearly shown, a plurality of supporting legs 1 , 2, 3 extend from the upper supporting element 4 at least partly at a distance from the central axis R. In particular, a cross beam 1T, 2T, 3T of each supporting leg extends horizontally from the upper supporting element 4 at a distance from the central axis R.

[0190] Preferably, the upper ends 1U, 2U, 3U of the supporting legs are connected to the upper supporting element 4 at different parts of the upper supporting element itself. In particular, a plurality of supporting legs 1, 2, 3 are connected to the upper supporting element 4 in different and laterally spaced positions according to a circular order 1-2-3 around the central axis R and extend therefrom.

[0191] In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of support legs 1, 2, 3 extend from the upper support element 4 in a radially distributed manner at a certain distance from the central axis R, that is, a plurality of support legs extend radially with respect to the central axis R. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 Obviously, the crossbar 1T, 2T, 3T of each supporting leg extends in a radial direction with respect to the central axis R.

[0192] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of supporting legs 1, 2, 3 define different angles A1, A2, A3 between consecutive supporting legs in a radial distribution around the central axis R. In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of supporting legs 1, 2, 3 define equal angles A1, A2, A3 between consecutive supporting legs in a radial distribution around the central axis R so as to define a uniform radial radiation.

[0193] As shown, the adjustment system 10 includes a plurality of spacer assemblies 12, 23, 13. Preferably, the adjustment system includes at least N-1 spacer assemblies, where N is the number of support legs of the base 100. More preferably, the adjustment system 10 includes N spacer assemblies. In the embodiment of the accompanying drawings, the base 100 includes three support legs, and the adjustment system 10 includes three spacer assemblies.

[0194] According to a preferred aspect, each spacer assembly 12, 23, 13 is inserted between a pair of connected support legs according to a circular order 1-2-3. In this configuration, a plurality of support legs 1, 2, 3 and a plurality of spacer assemblies 12, 23, 13 are configured to define a perimeter P of the base 100. The perimeter P interconnects the pairs of connected support legs according to a circular order 1-2-3. According to the drawings, the base 100 does not include a component located in an area A externally defined by the perimeter P.

[0195] like Figure 8-10 As better shown, the spacer assembly 12 includes two lateral elements 121, 122, which are configured to connect the spacer assembly 12 to the corresponding support legs in the support leg pair 1-2. Specifically, the spacer assembly 12 includes a first lateral element 121 and a second lateral element 122, the first lateral element is configured to be connected to the first support leg 1, and the second lateral element is configured to be connected to the second support leg 2. Preferably, the first lateral element 121 is configured to be fixed to the first support leg 1 and / or the second lateral element 122 is configured to be fixed to the second support leg 2.

[0196] Furthermore, the spacer assembly 12 comprises a central element 120 which is interposed between two lateral elements 121, 122. Fig.10 As shown, the central element 120 extends between a first end 120 ′ and a second end 120 ″. In particular, the central element 120 is connected to the first lateral element 121 at the first end 120 ′ and to the second lateral element 122 at the second end 120 ″.

[0197] The central element 120 is movable relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122. In particular, the movement of the central element 120 relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122 determines the movement of the pair of supporting legs 1-2 connected by the associated spacer assembly 12 in a mutual approaching trend V1 or in a mutual moving away trend V2. In other words, the movement of the central element 120 relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122 determines the increase or decrease in the distance D1 between the pair of supporting legs 1-2.

[0198] like Figure 1 As shown, the first adjustment direction S1 provides a movement of the central element 120 relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122, which is different, preferably opposite, from the movement of the central element 120 relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122 provided by the second adjustment direction S2.

[0199] In the embodiment shown, the central element 120 is connected to the first lateral element 121 and / or to the second lateral element 122 by a helical constraint, preferably by threads. In particular, the central element 120 is connected to the first lateral element 121 and to the second lateral element 122 by the above-mentioned helical constraint.

[0200] As from Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Obviously, the central element 120 includes a first central thread F1 at the first end 120', and the first lateral element 121 includes a first lateral thread F3, wherein the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3 can be coupled therebetween to connect the central element 120 with the first lateral element 121. Similarly, the central element 120 includes a second central thread F2 at the second end 120", and the second lateral element 122 includes a second lateral thread F4, wherein the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4 can be coupled therebetween to connect the central element 120 with the second lateral element 122.

[0201] In particular, the first lateral element 121 comprises a first seat S11 having a first lateral thread F3. Fig. 9As shown, the first seat S11 is configured to accommodate the first end 120' of the central element 120 by screwing the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3 together so as to constrain the central element 120 and the first lateral element 121. Similarly, the second lateral element 122 includes a second seat S22 having a second lateral thread F4. The second seat S22 is configured to accommodate the second end 120" of the central element 120 by screwing the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4 together so as to constrain the central element 120 and the second lateral element 122.

[0202] In an embodiment not shown, the central element comprises a first seat in which the first seat acquires the first central thread and / or a second seat in which the second seat acquires the second central thread. According to this embodiment, the first seat and / or the second seat are configured to receive, by screwing, a portion of the first lateral element and / or the second lateral element in which the first lateral thread and / or the second lateral thread is acquired so as to constrain the central element to the first lateral element and / or the central element to the second lateral element.

[0203] like Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3 have an opposite tendency compared to the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4. By way of example, the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3 have a right-hand thread, while the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4 have a left-hand thread, or vice versa.

[0204] In an alternative and not shown embodiment, the first central thread F1 , the second central thread F2 , the first lateral thread F3 and the second lateral thread F4 all have the same tendency.

[0205] Preferably, the spacer assembly 12, 23, 13 is configured to be manually actuated so as to move the associated pair of support legs both towards a mutual approaching direction V1 and towards a mutual moving away direction V2. In other words, the spacer assembly is configured to be manually actuated to increase and decrease the distance between the pair of support legs. Figure 2 As shown, with reference to the pair of supporting legs 2-3, the adjustment system 10 comprises a manual actuation device L which can be selectively connected to the central element 230 and / or to the first lateral element 231 and / or to the second lateral element 232 to move the pair of supporting legs 2-3 both in a mutually approaching trend V1 and in a mutually moving away trend V2, i.e. to reduce and increase the distance D2. Preferably, the manual actuation device L can be selectively connected to the central part 230 and is configured to be actuated so as to move the central element 230 relative to the first element 231 and / or the second lateral element 232.

[0206] In an alternative, not shown, embodiment, the spacer assembly can include electronic, pneumatic or oil-powered means operatively acting on the central element and / or the first lateral element and / or the second lateral element to move the pair of supporting legs both in a mutual approaching tendency V1 and in a mutual moving away tendency V2, i.e. to reduce as well as to increase the distances D1, D2, D3. By way of "example", the electronic actuation means can include an electric motor.

[0207] Preferably, the spacer assembly 12 includes at least one fastener 123, which is configured to selectively allow or inhibit relative movement between the central element 120 and the first lateral element 121 and / or relative movement between the central element 120 and the second lateral element 122. Specifically, the fastener 123 is configured to be selectively associated with the spacer assembly 12 to selectively inhibit relative movement between the central element 120 and the first lateral element 121 and / or relative movement between the central element 120 and the second lateral element 122.

[0208] In the illustrated embodiment, the central element 120 comprises a rod-shaped element 120A. The rod-shaped element 120A extends between the first end 120' and the second end 120", preferably along the connection direction X1 between the supporting leg pairs 1-2. In particular, the rod-shaped element 120A has a generally tubular structure, that is, the cross section of the rod-shaped element 120A along a plane perpendicular to the connection direction X1 is generally circular.

[0209] A first central thread F1 and a second central thread F2 are obtained on the outer surface of the rod-shaped element 120A at the first end 120 ′ and at the second end 120 ″, respectively.

[0210] according to Figure 8-10 As shown, the first lateral element 121 includes a first connection block 121A. Specifically, the first connection block 121A is configured to be mounted on, preferably fixed to, one of the support legs 1-2, namely the first support leg 1. In addition, the first connection block 121A includes a first seat S11, in which the first lateral thread F3 is obtained. According to the above description, the first seat S11 is configured to receive the first end 120' of the rod-shaped element 120A through a spiral connection between the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3. In the embodiment shown, the first connection block 121A is a threaded bracket, which is configured to be fixed to the first support leg 1 (or installed in a fixed position) by a fastener 121M, for example, by a plurality of screws.

[0211] In a manner substantially similar to the first lateral element 121, the second lateral element 122 includes a second connecting block 122A. Specifically, the second connecting block 122A is configured to be mounted on, preferably fixed to, one of the supporting legs in the pair of supporting legs 1-2, namely the second supporting leg 2. In addition, the second connecting block 122A includes a second seat S22, in which a second lateral thread F4 is obtained. Similar to the first seat S11, the second seat S22 is configured to receive the second end 120" of the rod-shaped element 120A by a spiral connection between the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4. In the illustrated embodiment, the second connecting block 122A is a threaded bracket, which is configured to be fixed to the second supporting leg 2 (or installed in a fixed position) by a fastener 122M, such as by a plurality of screws.

[0212] like Figure 8 As shown, the rod-shaped element 120A can move relative to the first connection block 121A in a rotational direction about the connection direction X1. The rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A about the connection direction X1 determines the translation of the rod-shaped element 120A and / or the first connection block 121A along the connection direction X1. Fig. 9 In the cross section shown in the left part of FIG. 1 , the rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A about the connection direction X1 determines a greater or lesser penetration of the first end 120 ′ in the first seat S11 depending on the rotation tendency.

[0213] Similarly, the rod-shaped element 120A can move relative to the second connection block 122A in a rotational trend around the connection direction X1. The rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A around the connection direction X1 determines the translation of the rod-shaped element 120A and / or the second connection block 122A along the connection direction X1. In particular, the rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A around the connection direction X1 determines a greater or lesser degree of penetration of the second end 120" in the second seat S22 depending on the rotational trend.

[0214] It should be noted that the rod-shaped element 120A, the first connection block 121A and the second connection block 122A do not change their size during the movement of a pair of legs 1-2 on the approaching trend V1 or on the moving away from each other trend V2. In particular, the movement of a pair of legs 1-2 on the approaching trend V1 or on the moving away from each other trend V2 only determines the change of the connection between the rod-shaped element 120A, the first connection block 121A and the second connection block 122A. Specifically, the reduction of the distance D1 is determined by the greater penetration of the rod-shaped element 120A in the first seat S11 and / or the greater penetration of the rod-shaped element 120A in the second seat S22. Similarly, the increase of the distance D1 is determined by the lower penetration of the rod-shaped element 120A in the first seat S11 and / or the lower penetration of the rod-shaped element 120A in the second seat S22.

[0215] like Fig. 9 As shown, the rod-shaped element 120A constitutes a threaded central column, which is inserted between the first connection block 121A and the second connection block 122A. In particular, the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3 have opposite tendencies compared to the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4. According to an embodiment, the first central thread F1 and the first lateral thread F3 have right-handed threads, while the second central thread F2 and the second lateral thread F4 have left-handed threads, or vice versa.

[0216] Therefore, the rotation of the rod-shaped element in the first rotational trend (consistent with the first adjustment direction S1) determines the movement of the support leg pair 1-2 in the mutual approach trend V1, that is, the reduction of the distance D1. Specifically, the rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A in the first adjustment direction S1 simultaneously determines the greater penetration of the first end 120' into the first seat S11 and the greater penetration of the second end 120" into the second seat S22. According to the context, the distance between the first connecting block 121A and the second connecting block 122A is reduced. Since the first connecting block 121A and the second connecting block 122A are integral with the corresponding support legs, the support leg pair 1-2 moves in the mutual approach trend V1. In this case, the spacer assembly 12 applies a pulling action, which is suitable for reducing the distance D1 between the support leg pair 1-2.

[0217] In a substantially identical and opposite manner, the rotation of the rod-shaped element in a second rotational direction (consistent with the second adjustment direction S2 and preferably opposite to the first rotational direction) determines the movement of the pair of support legs 1-2 in a direction V2 moving away from each other, i.e., an increase in the distance D1. Specifically, the rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A in the second rotational direction simultaneously determines a lower degree of penetration of the first end 120' into the first seat S11 and a lower degree of penetration of the second end 120" into the second seat S22. Depending on the context, the distance between the first connecting block 121A and the second connecting block 122A increases. Since the first connecting block 121A and the second connecting block 122A are integral with the corresponding support legs, the pair of support legs 1-2 moves in a direction V2 moving away from each other. In this case, the spacer assembly 12 applies a pushing action, which is suitable for increasing the distance D1 between the pair of support legs 1-2.

[0218] Preferably, the rod-shaped element 120A comprises a removable seat configured to allow the connection between the manual actuation device L and the spacer assembly 12. The seat is configured to receive the manual actuation device L in a removable manner so as to allow the movement between the pair of supporting legs 1-2 both in the direction of approaching each other V1 and in the direction of moving away from each other V2, and thus allow the distance D1 to be reduced or increased. In the embodiment shown, the seat is a hole 120H obtained on the outer surface of the rod-shaped element 120A in a position between the first end 120' and the second end 120", preferably in the midpoint between the first end and the second end.

[0219] according to Figure 2 As shown, the manual actuation device L includes an adjustment rod, which is shown with reference to the spacer assembly 23. The adjustment rod is suitable for selective insertion in the seat and is configured to be manually actuated by a user to move the support leg pair in both a mutually approaching trend V1 and a mutually distant trend V2, and then to reduce or increase the distance D2. When associated with the rod-shaped element 120A, the adjustment rod is configured to determine the mechanical advantage of the rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A around the connection direction X1.

[0220] like Fig. 9 As shown in detail, at least one fastener 123 includes at least one nut configured to be tightened on the first central thread F1 and / or tightened on the second central thread F2 at a contact point between the rod-shaped element 120A and the first connection block 121A or at a contact point between the rod-shaped element 120A and the second connection block 122A. The at least one nut is configured to selectively inhibit the rotation of the rod-shaped element 120A relative to the first connection block 121A and / or the second connection block 122A.

[0221] Reference Figure 10-13 , a circular knitting machine M in which the above-described base 100 is used will now be better described.

[0222] As expected, the machine M comprises a knitting assembly 200 provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism 201 in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to at least one needle holding mechanism, and provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics. In particular, the base 100 constitutes the contact point of the machine M on the support surface F and supports the knitting assembly 200. The needle holding mechanism 201 rotates around a central axis R and is configured to manufacture a knitted fabric of a configuration at least partially tubular around the central axis R. During the rotation of the needle holding mechanism 201, the plurality of needles movably mounted on at least one needle holding mechanism cooperate at least with the command device to allow the manufacture of fabrics.

[0223] In particular, base 100 is configured to support knitting assembly 200 so that it is vertically spaced relative to support surface F of machine M. Specifically, for example, Figure 3 As shown, the support legs 1 , 2 , and 3 determine that there is a certain distance between the knitting assembly 200 and the supporting surface F along the central axis R.

[0224] Preferably, the knitting assembly 200 includes at least one rotating sinker holder mechanism of known type, which accommodates a plurality of inverting sinkers, and therefore is not described in this document. The knitting assembly 200 also includes a sinker-related command device, which is suitable for selectively actuating a plurality of inverting sinkers. The plurality of inverting sinkers are configured to cooperate with a plurality of needles during the manufacturing process of the knitted fabric.

[0225] like Figure 3 As shown, the base 100 defines a receiving space V below the knitting assembly 200. The receiving space V is configured to receive a collecting device 300 of the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly. Preferably, the collecting device 300 is a take-off and / or collecting group, which is configured to automate the roll winding of the knitted fabric produced by the knitting machine. In one aspect, the collecting device is movable relative to the base, preferably rotating around the central axis R in an integral manner with the needle holding mechanism 201.

[0226] In some embodiments (such as Fig.11 and Fig.12 In the embodiment shown in the figure, the collecting device 300 is entirely suspended from the base 100 and is entirely supported by the base, or the collecting device 300 is entirely suspended from the needle holding mechanism 201 and is entirely supported by the needle holding mechanism. Specifically, the collecting device 300 does not provide a supporting device at the supporting surface F of the machine M. According to this aspect, the collecting device 300 is defined as being "suspended" from the machine M.

[0227] In other embodiments not shown, the collecting device 300 comprises means of contact with the support surface F. By way of example, the contact means of the collecting device comprise a plurality of wheels or supports configured to at least partially support the load of the collecting device 300 and configured to allow its movement during operation of the knitting machine.

[0228] like Fig.13 By way of example, the machine M can include other components such as:

[0229] - Components of the braiding assembly 200, such as covers, cams, wire guides, etc.;

[0230] - A U-shaped conical retainer structure positioned above the braided assembly 200;

[0231] A plurality of closing cages G closing a containment space V in which the collecting means 300 are contained (the collecting means thus remain enclosed in such cages).

[0232] The closing cage G is mounted (eg, pivoted) to the base 100 in such a way as to be movable between at least a closed configuration, in which it prevents access to the accommodation space V, and an open configuration, in which it allows access to the accommodation space V.

[0233] Finally, a configuration adjustment method of the base 100 described above is described.

[0234] The adjustment method comprises the step of placing a base 100 comprising an upper support element 4 and at least two support legs 1, 2, 3. The base 100 is a base according to above.

[0235] The adjustment method comprises the step of arranging an adjustment system 10 provided with at least one spacer assembly 12, 13, 23 interposed between the pair of supporting legs 1, 2, 3. The adjustment system 10 is an adjustment system according to above.

[0236] The adjustment method further comprises the step of mounting the knitting component 200 on the upper support element 4. Specifically, the knitting component 200 is mounted to the upper support element 4 in a movably manner.

[0237] Subsequently, the adjustment method comprises the step of adjusting the configuration of the base 100 by actuating at least one spacer element 12, 13, 23 to selectively move the related pair of supporting legs in both the approaching trend V1 and the moving away trend V2. Specifically, the step of adjusting the configuration of the base 100 comprises: at least one spacer element 12, 13, 23 is actuated to selectively move the related pair of supporting legs in the approaching trend V1 or in the moving away trend V2. In other words, the step of adjusting the configuration of the base 100 comprises: at least one spacer element 12, 13, 23 is actuated to reduce and increase the distance D1, that is, to apply a pulling action and a pushing action, the pulling action is suitable for reducing the distance between the related pair of supporting legs, and the pushing action is suitable for increasing the distance between the pair of supporting legs.

[0238] Preferably, the adjustment step includes: actuating at least one spacer assembly 12, 13, 23 in a first adjustment direction S1 or in a second adjustment direction S2, the first adjustment direction is configured to move the support leg pair in a mutual approaching direction V1, and the second adjustment direction is configured to move the support leg pair in a mutual away from direction V2.

[0239] Preferably, the step of adjusting provides a relative movement between the central element 120 and the first lateral element 121 and / or a relative movement between the central element 120 and the second lateral element 122 .

[0240] Preferably, the adjustment step includes: a first adjustment direction S1 determines the movement of the central element 120 relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122, which is different, preferably opposite, from the movement of the central element relative to the first lateral element and / or relative to the second lateral element determined by the second adjustment direction S2.

[0241] In an embodiment, the step of arranging the adjustment system 10 comprises that the central element 120 is connected to the first lateral element 121 and / or to the second lateral element 122 by means of a helical constraint, preferably by means of a thread.

[0242] Always preferably, the step of adjusting provides a rotation of the central element 120 about a relevant longitudinal axis, wherein the longitudinal axis is parallel to the connection direction X1, preferably coincident. More preferably, the step of adjusting comprises: a first adjustment direction S1 determines a rotation of the central element 120 about the longitudinal axis, which rotation is different, preferably opposite, with respect to a rotation of the central element about the longitudinal axis determined by a second adjustment direction S2.

[0243] In an embodiment, the step of adjusting provides for tightening of the central element 120 relative to the first lateral element 121 and / or relative to the second lateral element 122. Specifically, the first adjustment direction S1 provides for tightening of the central element 120 in a different, preferably opposite direction than the tightening of the central element provided by the second adjustment direction S2.

[0244] In a preferred embodiment, the step of adjusting comprises that at least one spacer assembly 12, 13, 23 is manually actuated. Preferably, the step of adjusting comprises that at least one spacer assembly is manually actuated by a manual actuation device L, which can be selectively connected to the central element 120 and / or to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element. Specifically, the step of adjusting comprises that the manual actuation device L is connected to the central element and / or to the first lateral element and / or to the second lateral element, and then the connected elements are moved according to the first adjustment direction S1 or the second adjustment direction S2.

[0245] Preferably, the adjustment method includes the step of fixing the configuration of the base 100 by placing fasteners 123, 133, 233 on at least one of the spacer components.

[0246] Advantages of the present invention

[0247] The invention achieves important advantages.

[0248] As can be seen from the above broad description, the adjustment system 10 according to the present description allows the use of the following base 100 for a circular knitting machine, which base can adjust its configuration so as to keep the knitting assembly 200 in an optimal state to produce knitted fabrics whose structural and / or aesthetic properties can meet high quality requirements.

[0249] In particular, the adjustment system 10 allows for easy, quick, and intuitive adjustment of the configuration of the base 100 .

[0250] It is particularly advantageous that the configuration of the base 100 can be adjusted even after the step of setting up the circular knitting machine, without the machine having to be stopped for a long time.

[0251] Furthermore, the base 100 ensures an optimal support of the components of the associated circular knitting machine.

[0252] Furthermore, the base 100 ensures a permanent support of the components of the associated circular knitting machine.

[0253] Meanwhile, the structure of the base 100 is simple and reasonable.

[0254] The compactness of the adjustment system furthermore allows the use of a base 100 which requires little space and is particularly lightweight.

[0255] The above-mentioned characteristics of the base 100 provide a circular knitting machine with a particularly stable structure. Therefore, the circular knitting machine is able to produce knitted fabrics without defects and / or flaws caused by unstable contact with the support surface.

[0256] The presence of the aforementioned adjustment system 10 allows the use of a circular knitting machine that is easy to install. In particular, even after the first installation, the adjustment of the position of the knitting assembly is quick and easy. This also ensures that the optimal balance configuration is instantly reestablished to produce high-quality knitted fabrics.

[0257] By virtue of the above-mentioned properties, the circular knitting machine is particularly reliable and efficient. In particular, maintenance and / or adjustment interventions suitable for restoring an optimally balanced state of the circular knitting machine are reduced to a minimum and the required downtimes, if necessary, are particularly short.

[0258] In addition, the configuration adjustment method of the base 100 is particularly simple and can be performed instantly. In particular, the aforementioned configuration adjustment method of the base is advantageously accurate, stable and durable.

[0259] Furthermore, even after the circular knitting machine has been installed for the first time, the adjustment method is quick, non-invasive and, above all, reproducible to perform.

Claims

1. A base (100) for a circular weft knitting machine (M), the circular knitting machine (M) comprising a knitting assembly (200), the knitting assembly being provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism (201) in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, being provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism (201), and being provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics; The base (100) constitutes the contact point of the circular knitting machine (M) on the supporting surface (F) and supports the knitting assembly (200); The base (100) comprises: - an upper support element (4), preferably an upper support ring, on which the knitting assembly (200) is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism (201) can rotate about a central axis (R) that is substantially vertical and preferably perpendicular to the support surface (F); - at least two supporting legs (1, 2, 3) interposed between the upper supporting element (4) and the supporting surface (F), the at least two legs (1, 2, 3) being connected to the upper supporting element (4) at different and laterally spaced positions so that the upper supporting element (4) is located vertically along the central axis (R) at a certain distance from the supporting surface (F); - a relative position adjustment system (10) between the at least two legs (1, 2, 3), the adjustment system (10) comprising at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) interposed between a pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) of the at least two supporting legs; Wherein, the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) operatively acts on the pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) and can function to determine the distance (D1, D2, D3) between the pair of supporting legs.

2. The base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) can function to move the pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in a direction of approaching each other (V1) and moving away from each other (V2); and / or wherein the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) can function to reduce the distance (D1, D2, D3) between the pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) and increase the distance (D1, D2, D3) between the pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3); and / or wherein the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) can function to move the pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) closer and move the pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) away from each other; and / or wherein the spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) is configured to selectively move the pair of supporting legs The leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) applies a pulling action or a pushing action to the supporting leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3), the pulling action is configured to move the supporting leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in the mutual approaching direction (V1), and the pushing action is configured to move the supporting leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in the mutual moving away direction (V2); and / or wherein the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) operatively acts along a connection direction (X1, X2, X3) between the supporting leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) to reduce the distance (D1, D2, D3) and increase the distance (D1, D2, D3); and / or wherein the connection direction (X1, X2, X3) is a straight line passing through the supporting leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3).

3. The base (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) provides a first adjustment direction (S1) and a second adjustment direction (S2), wherein the first adjustment direction is configured to move the support leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in the mutual approaching direction (V1), and the second adjustment direction is configured to move the support leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in the mutual moving away direction (V2); and / or wherein the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) contacts each support leg in the support leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) when in use; and / or wherein the spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) directly acts on the support leg pair (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) to selectively move the support leg pair in the mutual approaching direction (V1) and the mutual moving away direction (V2).

4. The base (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of support legs (1, 2, 3), the plurality of support legs comprising N support legs, wherein: N is an integer greater than or equal to 3, that is, N≥3; and / or wherein the plurality of support legs (1, 2, 3) are connected to and extend from the upper support element (4) in different and laterally spaced positions according to a circular order (1-2-3) around the central axis (R); and / or wherein the adjustment system (10) comprises a plurality of spacer assemblies (12, 23, 13), the plurality of spacer assemblies comprising N spacer assemblies; and / or wherein each of the plurality of spacer assemblies (12, 23, 13) is inserted between consecutive pairs of support legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) according to the circular order (1-2-3); and / or wherein the plurality of spacer assemblies (12, 23, 13) and the plurality of support legs (1, 2, 3) define a periphery (P) of the base (100).

5. The base (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) comprises a first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and a second lateral element (122, 232, 132), wherein the first lateral element and the second lateral element are configured to connect the associated spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) to a corresponding support leg of the pair of support legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3), the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) comprising a central element The central element (120, 230, 130) is interposed between the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and the second lateral element (122, 232, 132); and / or wherein the central element (120, 230, 130) is movable relative to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132); and / or wherein the central element ( The first adjustment direction (S1) determines the movement of the central element (120, 230, 130) relative to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132) in the approaching direction (V1) or in the moving direction (V2) away from each other; and / or wherein the first adjustment direction (S1) determines the movement of the central element (120, 230, 130) relative to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132) A movement relative to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132) is different, preferably opposite, from a movement of the central element (120, 230, 130) relative to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132) determined by the second adjustment direction (S2).

6. The base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The central element (120) is connected to the first lateral element (121) and / or to the second lateral element (122) via a spiral constraint; and / or wherein the central element (120) includes a first central thread (F1) at a first end (120') and the first lateral element (121) includes a first lateral thread (F3), and the first central thread (F1) and the first lateral thread (F3) can be matched with each other to connect the central element (120) to the first lateral element (121); and / or wherein the central element (120) includes a second central thread (F2) at a second end (120") and the second lateral element (122) includes a second lateral thread (F4), and the second central thread (F2) and the second lateral thread (F4) can be matched with each other to connect the central element (120) to the second lateral element (122).

7. The base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The first lateral element (121) includes a first seat (S11), the first seat having the first lateral thread (F3), the first seat (S11) being configured to accommodate the first end (120') of the central element (120) by mutual tightening between the first central thread (F1) and the first lateral thread (F3); and / or wherein the second lateral element (122) includes a second seat (S22), the second seat having the second lateral thread (F4), the second seat (S22) being configured to accommodate the second end (120") of the central element (120) by mutual tightening between the second central thread (F2) and the second lateral thread (F4); and / or wherein the first central thread (F1) and the first lateral thread (F3) have opposite tendencies relative to the second central thread (F2) and the second lateral thread (F4).

8. The base (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The adjustment system (10) includes a manual actuation device (L), which can be selectively connected to the central element (120, 230, 130) and / or to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132) to move the support leg pair according to the first adjustment direction (S1) or the second adjustment direction (S2); and / or wherein the at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) includes at least one fastener (123, 233, 133), which is configured to selectively allow or inhibit relative movement between the central element (120, 230, 130) and the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative movement between the central element (120, 230, 130) and the second lateral element (122, 232, 132).

9. The base (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein: The central element (120, 230, 130) comprises at least one rod-shaped element (120A, 230A, 130A), the rod-shaped element (120A, 230A, 130A) extending along the connection direction (X1, X2, X3) between the first end (120') and the second end (120"); and wherein the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) comprises a first connection block (121A, 231A, 131A), the first connection block being configured to be mounted on, preferably fixed to, the support leg on a support leg in pairs (1-2, 2-3, 3-1); and wherein the second lateral element (122, 232, 132) includes a second connecting block (122A, 232A, 132A), the second connecting block being configured to be mounted on, preferably fixed to, a support leg opposite to the support leg on which the first connecting block (121A, 231A, 131A) is mounted, the first connecting block (121A, 231A, 131A) and the second connecting block (122A, 232A, 132A) being preferably threaded brackets.

10. The base (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The rod-shaped element (120A, 230A, 130A) is movable relative to the first connection block (121A, 231A, 131A) and / or relative to the second connection block (122A, 232A, 132A) in a rotation direction around the connection direction (X1, X2, X3); and / or wherein, The rotation of the rod-shaped element (120A, 230A, 130A) in a first adjustment direction (S1) determines the movement of the pair of support legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in the mutual approaching direction (V1), and the rotation of the rod-shaped element in a second adjustment direction (S2) which is preferably opposite to the first adjustment direction (S1) determines the movement of the pair of support legs in the mutual moving away direction (V2).

11. A 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) in the form of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to said at least one needle holding mechanism, and provided with command means suitable for selectively actuating said plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics; The base (100) is configured to support the weaving assembly (200).

12. Circular knitting machine (M) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The base (100) defines a receiving space (V) below the braiding assembly (200); The circular knitting machine (M) comprises a collecting device (300) for the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly (200), the collecting device (300) being at least partially accommodated in the accommodating space (V); The collecting device (300) is preferably a take-off and / or collecting group configured to automate the winding of the knitted fabric into rolls.

13. A method for adjusting the configuration of a base (100) for a circular knitting machine (M), the method comprising at least the following steps: - placing a base (100) comprising at least one upper supporting element (4) and at least two supporting legs (1, 2, 3), the at least two supporting legs being interposed between the upper supporting element (4) and a bearing surface (F); - an adjustment system (10) for arranging the relative position between the at least two legs (1, 2, 3), the adjustment system (10) comprising at least one spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) interposed between a pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) of the at least two supporting legs; - a knitting assembly (200) is mounted on the upper support element (4), the knitting assembly comprising at least one rotating needle holding mechanism (201) in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate, a plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism, and a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of knitted fabrics; - The configuration of the base (100) is adjusted by actuating the at least one spacer element (12, 23, 13) so as to selectively move the associated pair of supporting legs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in a mutual approaching direction (V1) and in a mutual moving away direction (V2).

14. The method of regulation according to the preceding claim, wherein: The step of adjusting the configuration of the base (100) includes: at least one spacer element (12, 23, 13) is actuated to reduce and increase the distance (D1, D2, D3) between the relevant support leg pairs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3); and / or wherein the adjustment step includes: actuating at least one spacer component (12, 23, 13) in a first adjustment direction (S1) or in a second adjustment direction (S2), the first adjustment direction being configured to move the support leg pairs (1-2, 2-3, 1-3) in the mutual approaching direction (V1), and the second adjustment direction being configured to move the support leg pairs in the mutual moving away direction (V2).

15. The adjustment method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein: The step of arranging the adjustment system (10) comprises: each spacer assembly (12, 23, 13) comprises a central element (120, 230, 130), a first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and a second lateral element (122, 232, 132); and / or wherein the step of adjusting comprises: relative movement between the central element (120, 230, 130) and the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or the central element (120, 230, 130) 30, 130) and the second lateral element (122, 232, 132); and / or wherein the adjusting step comprises: rotation of the central element (120, 230, 130) around the relevant longitudinal axis; and / or wherein the adjusting step comprises: tightening of the central element (120, 230, 130) relative to the first lateral element (121, 231, 131) and / or relative to the second lateral element (122, 232, 132).

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