One-piece frame for take-off and / or collection group of knitted fabrics and associated take-off and / or collection group

Abstract

A frame (1) for a removal and / or collection group (100) of knitted fabrics (T) made by a circular weft knitting machine (M), the removal and / or collection group (100) being mounted in a movable manner to the circular knitting machine (M); the circular knitting machine (M) comprises: a knitting assembly (200) provided with a rotary needle holding mechanism, provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to the needle holding mechanism (201), having command means adapted to actuate the plurality of needles and to allow the manufacture of a knitted fabric (T); a base (300) configured to support the knitting assembly (200), the base defining an accommodation space (V) below the knitting assembly (200); the frame (1) is movably mounted in the accommodating space (V) to the circular knitting machine (M); the frame (1) internally defines a collection space (S) and supports a collection roller (101) within the collection space (S), the collection roller winding and collecting the knitted fabric (T); the frame (1) is a single-piece frame.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The object of the present invention is to provide a frame for a take-off and / or collecting group for knitted fabric produced by a circular weft knitting machine. In particular, the object of the present invention is a one-piece frame, i.e. a one-piece type, for a take-off and / or collecting group for knitted fabric produced by a circular weft knitting machine.

[0002] Another object of the invention is a take-off and / or collecting group comprising a frame as described above, designed to be installed in a circular weft knitting machine for collecting knitted fabric produced by the same circular weft knitting machine. Another object of the invention is a circular weft knitting machine comprising a take-off and / or collecting group as described above.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for realizing a one-piece frame (ie in one piece) for a removal and / or collecting group of knitted fabrics produced by a circular weft knitting machine. Background Art

[0004] As is well known, circular weft knitting machines can be used to produce various types of textiles, for example 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 for controlling the movement of the needles to form a fabric. The knitting assembly is usually provided 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 to form a knitted fabric having an overall configuration at least partially tubular.

[0006] In addition, the circular knitting machine also includes a base, which constitutes the support structure of the knitting machine. Specifically, the base is a ground support mechanism of the knitting machine. The base is also used to support the knitting assembly mounted on the above-mentioned base.

[0007] During the knitting process, the tubular fabric made by the knitting assembly continues to move downward, that is, it falls in the space below the knitting assembly. In this space, the fabric can be collected first and then enter the subsequent process to finally make the finished product.

[0008] In order to collect the knitted fabric produced, the circular knitting machine can be equipped with a take-off and / or collecting group, which is configured to automatically perform the operation of collecting the fabric produced by the circular knitting machine, preferably by winding it on a collecting reel. The take-off and / or collecting group is usually housed in a suitable volume defined by the base below the knitting assembly. The take-off and / or collecting group is movable, usually synchronized with the needle holding mechanism, so as to wind the fabric produced by the knitting assembly without creases and / or twists.

[0009] Thus, during operation of the knitting machine, the fabric produced is advanced, in particular lowered, to a take-off and / or collecting group which treats the fabric, suitably tightening it in order to correctly wind it onto the collecting reel.

[0010] In some embodiments, the knitted fabric is double collected, i.e. the take-off and / or collection group is configured to maintain the tubular structure of the knitted fabric produced, which is only "flattened" and tightened in due course in order to wind it on the collection reel. In fact, in this case, the textile produced by the circular knitting machine substantially maintains its original structure and only requires further processing during the second processing.

[0011] In other embodiments, the knitted fabric is collected in a single layer. In these embodiments, the single-layer fabric can be obtained by cutting and spreading (or "opening") of a tubular fabric (if - in most cases - the machine manufactures the tubular fabric continuously), or it can also be manufactured directly "slit", i.e. as a single continuous fabric layer (of a determined width), for example, by alternating movements of the knitting components. In both cases, it is the single-layer fabric that is taken off and / or wound on the collecting reel by the collecting group, instead of the cylindrically unfolded tubular fabric. The single-layer fabric has a continuous "strip" configuration of a specific width, different from the configuration of the tubular part of the fabric (which is opened by continuous cutting parallel to the longitudinal development direction of the manufactured fabric), or it can be derived from the machine as an "open" fabric that is already a single layer. The term "open" derived from this configuration of wound fabric is used to identify the type of machine in which the manufactured fabric is collected "slit", i.e. as a single layer wound on the collecting reel.

[0012] At present, known types of removal and / or collection groups include a support frame composed of a plurality of elements, which are assembled together by fastening means such as screws and / or bolts. The support frame of the removal and / or collection group known in the art generally includes a beam or a rod, at the two ends of which two lateral supports are positioned, generally configured as planar support plates. The components of the removal and / or collection group of the removal group are mounted on this frame, the function of which is to support and maintain the relative positioning between the various components involved in the removal and / or collection operation. In particular, the tubular component responsible for the tensioning, spreading and winding operations of the knitted fabric extends between the lateral supports, preferably in a direction parallel to the longitudinal development direction of the beam or rod. Typically, in addition to the above-mentioned collection roller, the tubular component also includes a spreading roller, that is, a spiral roller, and one or more conveying rollers for tightening and stretching the textile so as to optimally (i.e., without creases) wind it on the collection roller. The movement of the components involved in the textile collection operation is generally controlled by motors, such as one or more motors controlled by a control unit, to maintain the necessary synchronization to ensure the correct tensioning and correct spreading of the textile.

[0013] In addition to the above-mentioned winding rollers, other components required for the spreading operation, such as cutting mechanisms and spreading mechanisms, can be mounted on the supporting frame, such as the "open" circular knitting machine described above.

[0014] The known support frame is usually directly or indirectly connected to the needle-holding mechanism of the knitting assembly by means of a connection device, which is configured to transmit the movement of the needle-holding mechanism to the removal and / or collection group so that it can move synchronously with the needle-holding mechanism, i.e., rotate synchronously. For example, the connection device includes one or more brackets, which are connected to the beam or rod by additional fastening means (such as screws and / or bolts).

[0015] Document WO 2014 / 191868 A1 in the name of the applicant describes a take-off and / or collection group for an "open" circular knitting machine, in particular a suspended take-off and / or collection group, i.e. directly supported by the needle holder, without any contact points with the support surface or the base crossbeam. The frame of the take-off and / or collection group described in WO 2014 / 191868 A1 is a conventional frame consisting of a crossbeam, two plates and a connecting bracket connected to the needle holder, wherein the components are assembled together by connecting means such as screws and bolts. Between the two plates extend a plurality of rollers, including a collecting roller, a winding roller and a plurality of conveying rollers.

[0016] In order to ensure the correct winding of the knitted fabric on the collecting reel, the connection of the take-off and / or collecting group to the needle-holding mechanism and the relative position of the various components of the take-off and / or collecting group must be kept as precise and stable as possible over time. In fact, any deviation from the optimal path of the knitted fabric within the take-off and / or collecting group, no matter how small, will cause wrinkles, creases and / or ripples in the fabric wound on the collecting reel. It should be noted that wrinkles on the inner layer of the knitted fabric wound on the collecting reel will spread to the outer layers, while the outer layers may have new wrinkles or wrinkles extending to the outermost layer, so that the number of defects will become so great that the final quality of the fabric roll is unsatisfactory.

[0017] The Applicant has noticed that during the operation of the circular knitting machine, due to the rotational movement and vibration phenomena of the take-off and / or collecting group, the relative position of the various components of the take-off and / or collecting group may be affected, and the quality of winding of the knitted fabric on the collecting reel may also be affected. In particular, in known take-off and / or collecting groups, it is often found that the knitted fabric wound on the collecting reel has wrinkles, wrinkles and / or ripples.

[0018] In order to solve these drawbacks, it is necessary to stop the knitting machine in order to carry out the necessary maintenance and / or adjustment operations in order to restore the correct relative position between the various components of the taking-down and / or collecting group. These operations are particularly complex and usually require a considerable amount of time, which means a long stoppage of the knitting machine, resulting in a loss of efficiency in the entire production process.

[0019] In this sense, the defects of the knitted fabric rolls produced and the need for frequent maintenance and / or adjustments undermine the advantages of automatic collection by taking down and / or collecting groups, making it less attractive for manufacturers to adopt the alternative method of collecting by stacking the textile material on site and then tightening and winding it on rolls at a second time and place.

[0020] Furthermore, the Applicant has also noted that the removal and / or collecting groups known in the art have a particularly bulky and heavy structure. The size and weight of the known removal and / or collecting groups make the circular knitting machines equipped with such devices particularly complex, energy-consuming and expensive. Summary of the invention

[0021] Thus, the applicant has noted certain limitations and drawbacks when collecting knitted fabrics produced by circular weft knitting machines.

[0022] The Applicant has noted in particular that circular weft knitting machines provided with a take-off and / or collecting group of known type present quality defects in the wound fabric, generally one or more folds, wrinkles and / or waves.

[0023] As mentioned above, the known solutions have limitations in this respect and cannot achieve optimal operation. This determines that the quality of the fabric tube winding produced by the circular knitting machine is unsatisfactory, which leads to shortcomings in the efficiency and effectiveness of the fabric tube winding process usually carried out away from the knitting machine.

[0024] The Applicant has noticed that the advantages of automation over the fabric winding process by means of a take-off and / or collecting group are weakened by the quality defects that occur on the finished product wound in the drum.

[0025] In this case, a basic purpose in various aspects and / or embodiments of the present invention is to propose a frame for removing and / or collecting groups, a removing and / or collecting group, a circular weft knitting machine, a method for producing the frame for removing and / or collecting groups and a method for implementing a removing and / or collecting group, which are able to solve the above-mentioned problems and overcome the limitations of known technologies.

[0026] In particular, the object of the invention is to propose a frame for a taking-down and / or collecting group which allows particularly precise positioning of the components in relation to the taking-down and / or collecting group.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a frame for a removal and / or collecting group which allows a particularly stable and durable positioning of the components with respect to the removal and / or collecting group.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to provide a particularly robust frame for reliable removal and / or collection of the group.

[0029] Another object of the invention is to provide a frame for taking down and / or collecting the groups which has a simple and rational structure.

[0030] Another object of the invention is to propose a frame for taking down and / or collecting groups which has small dimensions and a particularly controlled weight.

[0031] Another object of the present invention is to propose a take-off and / or collecting group capable of bobbin-winding a knitted fabric produced by a circular knitting machine without aesthetic and / or structural defects such as wrinkles, wrinkles and / or ripples.

[0032] Another object of the present invention is to provide a take-off and / or collecting group capable of providing a higher winding quality for a knitted fabric produced by a circular knitting machine.

[0033] Another object of the present invention is to propose a take-off and / or collecting group that is particularly reliable and allows for efficient bobbin winding of knitted fabric produced by a circular knitting machine with a minimum of maintenance interventions.

[0034] Another object of the present invention is to provide a take-off and / or gathering group mounted on a circular knitting machine that is particularly precise and easy to perform.

[0035] Another object of the present invention is to propose a circular knitting machine provided with a take-off and / or collecting group ensuring high-quality automatic winding of the knitted fabric produced.

[0036] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circular knitting machine provided with a take-off and / or collecting group which ensures particularly reliable and efficient automatic winding while minimizing maintenance and / or adjustment interventions.

[0037] Another object of the invention is to show an implementation of a frame for taking down and / or collecting a group which makes it possible to provide a particularly stable and reliable frame.

[0038] Another object of the invention is to propose a method for carrying out the removal and / or collection of a group in which the relative positioning of the components is particularly precise, stable and permanent.

[0039] According to one or more of the attached claims, as well as the following aspects and / or embodiments (which may have different combinations with the above claims), the above-mentioned objects and other objects (which will become clearer in the following description) can basically be achieved by a frame for removing and / or collecting groups, a removing and / or collecting group, a circular weft knitting machine, a manufacturing method of the above-mentioned frame for removing and / or collecting groups, and a method for implementing the removing and / or collecting group.

[0040] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a frame for a take-off and / or collecting group of a knitted fabric produced by a circular weft knitting machine. In particular, the invention relates to a frame for a take-off and / or collecting group, the frame being configured to wind a knitted fabric produced by the circular weft knitting machine.

[0041] In one aspect, the removal and / or collecting group is configured to be removably mounted to the circular weft knitting machine. In the present description, the expression "removably mounted" means that the removal and / or collecting group can be mounted or removed from the knitting machine and, once mounted on the knitting machine, the removal and / or collecting group can be moved relative to other parts of the knitting machine, as will become clear below. In other words, the removal and / or collecting group is not realized integrally with the knitting machine.

[0042] In one aspect, the circular knitting machine comprises a knitting assembly configured to manufacture the knitted fabric. The knitting assembly is provided with at least one rotating needle holding mechanism in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate. In addition, the knitting assembly is also provided with 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 knitted fabric to be manufactured.

[0043] In one aspect, the circular knitting machine includes a base. The base constitutes a supporting structure of the knitting machine and is configured to support the knitting assembly.

[0044] In one aspect, the base defines a receiving space below the braiding assembly.

[0045] It should be noted that, in the present application, the terms "below", "lower", "beneath", "below" and similar terms, as well as the relative terms "up", "upper", "above", "above" and similar terms, all refer to the vertical direction of the machine when in use, that is, perpendicular to the supporting surface of the machine.

[0046] Similarly, the terms "vertical", "vertically", "horizontal", "horizontally" and similar terms shall refer to a knitting machine 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 and the horizontal direction is parallel to the support surface.

[0047] In one aspect, the frame is configured to be movably mounted to the circular knitting machine in the accommodation space. In particular, the accommodation space is configured to at least partially accommodate the frame and thus accommodate an associated removal and / or collection group.

[0048] In one aspect, the frame defines a collection space internally. The collection space is configured to allow the knitted fabric to be collected.

[0049] In one aspect, the frame is configured to movably support at least one collecting roller within the collecting space.

[0050] In one aspect, the collecting roll is configured to wind and collect the knitted fabric produced by the circular knitting machine. Specifically, the collecting roll is configured to rotate around a relative rotation axis so as to allow the knitted fabric produced by the knitting assembly of the machine to be wound in rolls.

[0051] In one aspect, the frame is a one-piece frame, i.e., a one-piece frame. Specifically, the frame comprises a plurality of parts that are continuous with each other and connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner. By the expression "a plurality of parts", it is meant that each of the parts of the frame has a single feature (e.g., a tube, a rod, or a plane) that distinguishes it from adjacent parts.

[0052] In one aspect, the multiple parts of the frame are connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner without the use of additional connecting devices (such as screws, nuts or bolts) for connection.

[0053] According to one aspect, the plurality of parts are seamlessly connected. In other words, the plurality of parts are not composed of a plurality of elements held in contact by connecting means, and there is material continuity between the parts of the frame.

[0054] In one aspect, the frame is realized by welding. Specifically, the multiple parts of the frame are connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner by welding technology.

[0055] In one aspect, the frame is realized as a whole, i.e. manufactured in a single step. In another aspect, the frame is realized by molding.

[0056] In one aspect, the frame is arranged along a vertical axis between the upper end and the lower end. According to this aspect, the vertical axis coincides with a direction orthogonal to a support surface of the knitting machine, in particular a support surface of the base, in use. According to one aspect, the arrangement of the frame along the vertical axis coincides with the height of the frame.

[0057] In one aspect, the frame is arranged along a longitudinal axis between a first lateral end and a second lateral end. In one aspect, the longitudinal axis is orthogonal to the vertical axis. According to one aspect, the arrangement of the frame along the longitudinal axis is consistent with the width of the frame. In one aspect, the arrangement of the frame along the longitudinal axis (i.e., the width of the frame) is consistent with the maximum arrangement dimension of the frame.

[0058] In one aspect, the frame is arranged along a transverse axis between the front end and the rear end. In one aspect, the transverse axis corresponds to a direction orthogonal to the vertical axis and to the longitudinal axis. In one aspect, the arrangement of the frame along the transverse axis is consistent with the depth of the frame.

[0059] In one aspect, the frame comprises an upper section and a lower section, wherein the upper section and the lower section are continuous with each other and are connected in an immovable manner.

[0060] In one aspect, the upper section is closer to the knitting assembly relative to the lower section when in use, i.e. when the frame is mounted to a circular knitting machine. Thus, the lower section is closer to the support surface of the circular knitting machine relative to the upper section when in use, i.e. when the frame is mounted to a circular knitting machine.

[0061] In one aspect, the upper section includes at least the upper end and the lower section includes at least the lower end.

[0062] In one aspect, the upper section includes a first support element and a second support element.

[0063] In one aspect, the first support element extends from the first lateral end to the second lateral end.

[0064] In one aspect, the second support element extends from the first lateral end to the second lateral end.

[0065] In one aspect, the first support element and / or the second support element is a tubular element, ie an element having a substantially circular cross-section.

[0066] In one aspect, the shapes of the first support element and the second support element are set to define an upper opening for the fabric manufactured by the knitting component to pass through the collection space. Specifically, the first support element and / or the second support element have a curved layout at least in a central portion thereof to define the aforementioned upper opening.

[0067] In one aspect, the lateral (ie, in a direction parallel to the lateral axis) layout of the first support element is greater than the lateral layout of the second support element. In other words, the curvature of the first support element is greater relative to the second support element.

[0068] According to one aspect, the first support element comprises the front end of the frame along the transverse axis.

[0069] According to one aspect, the second support element includes the rear end along the transverse axis.

[0070] In one aspect, the upper opening extends generally from the front end to the rear end along a direction parallel to the transverse axis.

[0071] In one aspect, a perimeter of the upper opening is primarily defined by the first support element and the second support element. According to this aspect, the upper opening has an asymmetric configuration relative to a plane perpendicular to the transverse axis.

[0072] In one aspect, the first supporting element has a symmetrical structure about a symmetry plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the symmetry plane is perpendicular to a support surface of the circular knitting machine in which the frame and the associated taking-off and / or collecting group are mounted.

[0073] In one aspect, the second support element has a symmetrical structure about a symmetry plane, the symmetry plane containing the vertical axis and the transverse axis, the symmetry plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0074] In one aspect, a distance function between the first support element and the second support element takes a minimum value at least at the first lateral end and the second lateral end, and the distance function takes a maximum value at least at the symmetry plane.

[0075] In one aspect, the first support element comprises two first joint half-supports, which are preferably welded approximately at the symmetry plane, each of which extends from a respective lateral end of the frame to the symmetry plane. Specifically, the first half-supports are mirror-shaped relative to the symmetry plane when in use.

[0076] In one aspect, the second support element comprises two second joint half-supports, which are preferably welded approximately at the symmetry plane, each of which extends from a corresponding lateral end of the frame to the symmetry plane. In particular, the second half-supports are mirror-shaped relative to the symmetry plane when in use.

[0077] In one aspect, the upper section includes a plurality of reinforcing elements extending between the first support element and the second support element and configured to stably connect the first support element and the second support element.

[0078] In one aspect, each reinforcement element of the plurality of reinforcement elements is arranged parallel to the transverse axis.

[0079] In one aspect, the plurality of reinforcement elements are mirror-arranged with respect to the plane of symmetry.

[0080] In one aspect, the plurality of reinforcing elements comprises a number of reinforcing elements comprised between two and sixteen, preferably between four and twelve, even more preferably equal to eight.

[0081] According to one aspect, each reinforcement element of the plurality of reinforcement elements is a tubular element extending between the first support element and the second support element, preferably in a direction substantially parallel to the transverse axis.

[0082] In one aspect, the upper section comprises at least one covering element extending between the first support element and the second support element. Specifically, the upper section comprises at least one pair of covering elements, which are arranged in a mirror image with respect to the symmetry plane for covering at least a portion of the plurality of reinforcing elements.

[0083] In one aspect, the upper section comprises at least a first pair of covering elements arranged within the frame and interposed between a portion of the plurality of reinforcement elements and the collecting space.

[0084] In one aspect, the upper section comprises at least one second pair of covering elements arranged outside the frame. The at least one second pair of covering elements is positioned substantially at the at least one first pair of covering elements so as to form an inner space at least partially enclosing the first support element, the second support element and the plurality of reinforcing elements.

[0085] In one aspect, the upper section comprises at least one mounting element configured to allow the frame to be connected to the knitting machine and / or configured to allow one or more taking-off and / or collecting groups to be mounted.

[0086] In one aspect, the at least one mounting element comprises at least one first mounting element configured to allow mounting of mounting means adapted to allow connection of the frame and the corresponding taking-off and / or collecting group to the structure of the circular knitting machine. In one aspect, the at least one first mounting element comprises a plurality of first mounting plates. In one aspect, the plurality of first mounting plates comprises two to eight first mounting plates, preferably three to six first mounting plates, even more preferably four first mounting plates.

[0087] In one aspect, the at least one mounting element comprises at least one second mounting element configured to allow one or more components of the removal and / or collection set to be connected to the single-piece frame. In one aspect, the at least one second mounting element comprises at least one second mounting plate. Preferably, the at least one second mounting element comprises two second mounting plates.

[0088] In one aspect, the lower section includes a base portion, a first lateral portion, and a second lateral portion.

[0089] In one aspect, the base portion has a generally planar configuration between the first lateral end and the second lateral end.

[0090] In one aspect, the base portion comprises at least one base element extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end. In one aspect, the base portion comprises at least the lower end, preferably located at the at least one base element.

[0091] In one aspect, the at least one base element comprises at least one beam extending substantially between the first lateral end and the second lateral end.By the term "beam", it is meant any rod-like element having one dimension predominant over the other two dimensions.

[0092] In one aspect, the at least one beam extends between the first lateral end and the second lateral end in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0093] In one aspect, the at least one base element comprises a first beam and a second beam arranged in parallel, preferably arranged at a distance parallel to the longitudinal axis. In particular, the first beam and the second beam form a track parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0094] In one aspect, the base portion comprises at least one reinforcing beam connecting the first beam and the second beam. In one aspect, the at least one reinforcing beam is arranged between the first beam and the second beam parallel to the transverse axis.

[0095] In one aspect, the base portion comprises at least one pair of reinforcing beams, preferably arranged in a mirrored manner about the plane of symmetry. The space formed between the first beam, the second beam and the at least one pair of reinforcing beams defines a bracket suitable for defining a reclining seat for an operator (e.g. an employee responsible for maintenance operations on the removal and / or collection group).

[0096] In one aspect, the first lateral portion is disposed at the first lateral end and the second lateral portion is disposed at the second lateral end.

[0097] The first lateral portion and the second lateral portion are configured to support at least a portion of components of a removal and / or collection set, which components preferably extend between the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0098] In one aspect, the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion are mirror-arranged with respect to the symmetry plane.

[0099] In one aspect, the first lateral portion comprises a first plate having a substantially planar layout.Preferably, the first plate is arranged parallel to the symmetry plane.

[0100] In one aspect, the second lateral portion comprises a second plate having a substantially planar layout.Preferably, the second plate is arranged parallel to the symmetry plane.

[0101] In one aspect, the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion each comprise a plurality of housing seats configured for mounting at least one roller of the taking-off and / or collecting group.

[0102] In one aspect, the plurality of receptacles include a receiving channel configured to load and unload a collection roller of the removal and / or collection group. In one aspect, the receiving channel is arranged in a direction generally parallel to a transverse axis. In an alternative aspect, the receiving channel is arranged in a direction oblique to the transverse axis, effectively forming a slide for loading and unloading the collection roller. The receiving channel is configured to receive a fastener of the collection roller, the fastener being configured to hold the collection roller in place during a winding operation of the knitted fabric.

[0103] In one aspect, the first support element and the second support element are connected to at least the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion. Specifically, the first support element and the second support element are connected to at least the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion in an immovable and irreversible manner. In one aspect, the first support element and the second support element are connected to at least the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion by welding.

[0104] In another aspect, the first support element and the second support element are connected to the base portion. In particular, the first support element and the second support element are connected to the base portion in an immovable and irreversible manner. In one aspect, the first support element and the second support element are connected to at least the base portion by welding. In fact, the first support element and the second support element extend substantially along the vertical axis between the upper end and the lower end throughout the entire length of the frame.

[0105] In one aspect, the first support element includes two first lateral posts and a first central crossbeam interposed between the first lateral posts.

[0106] In one aspect, the first lateral column is arranged in a manner generally parallel to the vertical axis in use and in a generally linear layout. In one aspect, the first lateral column extends generally between the upper end and the lower end and constitutes a contact point between the first support element and the first lateral portion, the second lateral portion and the base portion.

[0107] In one aspect, the first central cross beam is arranged perpendicular to the first lateral column. In use, the first central cross beam is positioned parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis. The first central cross beam is arranged in a curved shape to at least partially define the upper opening.

[0108] In one aspect, the first support element constitutes a curved piece of tubular shape for defining the first lateral column and the first central crossbeam. Specifically, the first support element comprises two connecting portions, located at the longitudinal ends of the first central crossbeam and at the location of connection with the first lateral column. The connecting portions are curved and constitute the contact point and transition point between the first central crossbeam and the first lateral column.

[0109] In one aspect, the second support element comprises two second lateral columns and a second central crossbeam interposed between the second lateral columns.

[0110] In one aspect, the second lateral column is arranged in use in a manner generally parallel to the vertical axis and has a generally linear layout. In one aspect, the second lateral column extends generally between the upper end and the lower end and constitutes a contact point between the second support element and the first lateral portion, the second lateral portion and the base portion.

[0111] In one aspect, the second central cross beam is arranged perpendicular to the second lateral column. In use, the second central cross beam is positioned parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis. The second central cross beam is arranged in a curved shape to at least partially define the upper opening.

[0112] In one aspect, the second support element is made of a bent tubular member for defining the second lateral column and the second central beam. Specifically, the second support element includes two connecting portions, located at the longitudinal ends of the second central beam and at the location connected to the second lateral column. The connecting portions are bent and formed and constitute the contact point and transition point between the second central beam and the second lateral column.

[0113] In one aspect, the frame is primarily made of a metallic material. In another aspect, the frame is primarily made of steel or a steel alloy.

[0114] According to another aspect, another object of the present application is a removal and / or collection group for a circular knitting machine. Specifically, the present application refers to a removal and / or collection group of a single-piece frame comprising at least one or more of the aforementioned aspects.

[0115] In one aspect, the circular knitting machine comprises a knitting assembly provided with at least one rotating needle support mechanism in the form of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; a plurality of needles movably mounted on the at least one needle holding mechanism; and a command device adapted to selectively actuate the plurality of needles and allow the fabric to be manufactured. The circular knitting machine further comprises a base constituting a supporting structure of the circular knitting machine and configured to support the knitting assembly. The base defines a receiving space below the knitting assembly.

[0116] In one aspect, the taking-off and / or collecting group is configured to be movably mounted to the circular knitting machine in the receiving space.

[0117] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group includes a mounting device that can be fixed to the needle holding mechanism or the base of the circular knitting machine and is configured to securely connect the removal and / or collection group to the needle holding mechanism or the base. Specifically, the mounting device is used to mount the removal and / or collection group below the knitting assembly of the circular knitting machine.

[0118] In one aspect, the mounting device is configured to be fixed to the at least one first mounting element of the frame of the removal and / or collection group, preferably to the plurality of first mounting plates. In one aspect, the mounting device comprises a plurality of mounting brackets, which are configured to be fixed to the first mounting plate of the frame at one end and to the needle holding mechanism or the base at the opposite end.

[0119] In one aspect, the mounting means are arranged exclusively above the frame and are not present below the frame and / or laterally relative to the frame.

[0120] In one aspect, the mounting device is configured to transmit the rotational movement of the needle holding mechanism to the removal and / or collection group.

[0121] In one aspect, the removal and / or collecting group is entirely suspended from the base and supported by the base, or the removal and / or collecting group is completely suspended from the needle holding mechanism and supported by the needle holding mechanism. In particular, the removal and / or collecting group is not provided with means for resting against a supporting surface of the knitting machine. According to this aspect, the removal and / or collecting group is defined as "suspended" from the circular knitting machine.

[0122] In another aspect, the removal and / or collecting group comprises contact means for contact with a support surface of the knitting machine. For example, the contact means of the removal and / or collecting group comprises a plurality of wheels or supports configured to at least partially support the load of the removal and / or collecting group and allow it to rotate during operation of the knitting machine.

[0123] In one aspect, the take-off and / or collection group comprises a collection reel supported by the frame and configured to wind fabric produced by the knitting assembly of the circular knitting machine. Preferably, the collection reel extends in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and is configured to rotate about a first rotation axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0124] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group defines a connection path for the fabric discharged from the weaving assembly, and the connection path terminates at the collection roller. Specifically, the removal and / or collection group defines the connection path for the fabric, and the connection path starts from the upper opening (the upper opening is defined by the first support element and the second support element of the frame) and terminates at the collection roller. Therefore, the direction of the connection path is from the upper opening to the collection roller. In the following, the arrangement of other components of the removal and / or collection group will be introduced with reference to the connection path according to the direction from the upper opening to the collection roller.

[0125] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group includes at least one spreading roller or tensioning roller, which is mounted to the frame in a position upstream relative to the collection roller and downstream relative to the upper opening along the connection path of the fabric. The spreading roller is configured to interact with the knitted fabric advancing toward the collection roller so as to spread the knitted fabric before winding it on the collection roller. Specifically, the spreading roller is shaped or shaped so as to spread the fabric by tensioning the fabric toward the first lateral end and the second lateral end. Preferably, the spreading roller extends in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and is configured to rotate around a second rotation axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the spreading roller is arranged parallel to the collection roller and is configured to spread the knitted fabric toward the first lateral portion and toward the second lateral portion.

[0126] In one aspect, the spreading roller is movably mounted to the frame and is capable of varying the separation distance between it and the collecting roller. Preferably, the spreading roller is mounted to the frame via a pair of movable arms, preferably articulated at the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion, so that it can rotate about a third rotation axis.

[0127] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises at least one transfer roller mounted to the frame along the connection path in a position upstream relative to the collection roller, preferably and upstream relative to the spreading roller. The at least one transfer roller is configured to tension the knitted fabric and guide the knitted fabric along the connection path toward the collection roller. Preferably, the at least one transfer roller extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis and is configured to rotate around a fourth rotation axis parallel to the longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the removal and / or collection group comprises a plurality of transfer rollers arranged in series, preferably arranged upstream relative to the spreading roller.

[0128] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises a flattening device for the knitted fabric in the shape of a closed tubular fabric discharged from the knitting machine. The flattening device is arranged along the connection path of the fabric, upstream relative to the various components of the removal and / or collection group, preferably approximately at the upper opening. In one embodiment, the flattening device may include a pair of rollers arranged parallel to each other. In another embodiment, the flattening device may include a pair of rods arranged parallel to each other. The rollers / rods are arranged in close proximity to each other so as to define a substantially rectilinear channel for the knitted fabric, thereby determining the approximate flattening of the knitted fabric in the shape of a tubular diameter, which is thus approximately in contact with each other in two layers.

[0129] In one aspect, the levelling device is mounted to the frame at the at least one second mounting element, preferably at the at least one second mounting plate.

[0130] In one aspect, the taking-off and / or collecting group may comprise a cutting device arranged downstream along the coupling path of the fabric relative to the flattening device. The cutting device is configured to longitudinally cut the knitted fabric in tubular shape produced by the circular knitting machine along preferably vertical generatrix lines in order to thus unwind and wind the knitted fabric in a single layer on a collecting reel, as is usually the case in “split” circular knitting machines.

[0131] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group also comprises spreading devices for the fabric, which is discharged in the form of a single layer from the needle holder in the split circular knitting machine directly or obtained by the action of the cutting device. These spreading devices are arranged downstream along the connection path with respect to the flattening device and the cutting device (if provided). These spreading devices are arranged upstream along the connection path of the fabric with respect to the at least one conveying roller, the spreading roller and the collecting roller. The spreading device is configured to spread the fabric discharged from the flattening device and finally cut longitudinally by the cutting device (if provided).

[0132] In one aspect, the spreading device comprises at least one spreading rod, which is preferably fixedly mounted to the frame and is configured to define openings of the two lateral peripheries of the fabric in a continuously spaced manner, the fabric flowing through the spreading rod along its connection path being spread in the form of a single layer of fabric. Preferably, the spreading rod extends longitudinally between the first lateral end and the second lateral end.

[0133] Preferably, the spreading rod is shaped as a whole in a circular "V" shape, i.e., has a curved or circumferential arc, the arc being a central portion and two straight portions extending from both sides of the central portion in opposite directions and terminating at the first lateral end and the second lateral end, respectively. Preferably, the spreading rod is shaped substantially symmetrically about the symmetry plane.

[0134] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises a mounting structure configured to mount the cutting device and / or spreading device on the frame. Preferably, the mounting structure is connected to the frame at the at least one second mounting element, in particular at the at least one second mounting plate.

[0135] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises a plurality of actuators configured to move relatively movable parts of the removal and / or collection group. In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group comprises at least one of the following actuators:

[0136] - an actuator of the collection roller, configured to determine a rotation of the collection roller about an associated first axis of rotation, the first axis of rotation preferably being parallel to the longitudinal axis;

[0137] - an actuator of the spreading roller, configured to determine the rotation of the spreading roller about an associated second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation preferably being parallel to the longitudinal axis;

[0138] - an actuator of the pair of movable arms, carrying the spreading roller, configured to determine the rotation of the pair of movable arms about the third axis of rotation so as to vary the distance between the spreading roller and the collecting roller;

[0139] - an actuator of at least one transport roller, configured to determine the rotation of the at least one transport roller about the fourth rotation axis, the fourth rotation axis preferably being parallel to the longitudinal axis;

[0140] - an actuator of the flattening device, configured to determine the rotation of the flattening roller about a relative axis of rotation, the axis of rotation preferably being parallel to the longitudinal axis or to the transverse axis;

[0141] - an actuator of the cutting device, configured for actuating the cutting device and determining a longitudinal opening of the tubular fabric emerging from the braiding assembly.

[0142] According to another aspect, the object of the present application is a circular weft knitting machine. In particular, the object of the present application is a circular knitting machine provided with a taking-off and / or collecting group according to the preceding description.

[0143] In one aspect, the circular knitting machine comprises a knitting assembly provided with at least one rotating needle support mechanism in the form of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate; a plurality of needles movably mounted on the at least one needle holding mechanism; and a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and allowing the production of fabric. The circular knitting machine also comprises a base constituting a supporting structure of the circular knitting machine and configured to support the knitting assembly. The base constitutes an element in contact with a supporting surface of the knitting machine and defines a receiving space below the knitting assembly.

[0144] In one aspect, the base comprises

[0145] - an upper support ring or an equivalent support element on which the braiding assembly is mounted so that the needle holding mechanism can rotate about a substantially vertical central axis;

[0146] - at least two supporting legs interposed between the upper ring and the support surface, connected to the upper ring at different and laterally spaced positions so that the upper ring maintains a vertical distance from the support surface.

[0147] In one aspect, the circular knitting machine comprises a take-off and / or collecting group according to one or more of the preceding aspects provided together with a one-piece frame.

[0148] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group is movably accommodated in the accommodation space defined by the base. Specifically, the removal and / or collection group is positioned below the knitting component.

[0149] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group is mounted on the base or the knitting assembly. In a preferred aspect, the removal and / or collection group is directly or indirectly mounted on the needle holding mechanism so as to rotate synchronously with the needle holding mechanism. In this case, the removal and / or collection group is configured to rotate synchronously with the fabric manufactured by the knitting assembly of the circular knitting machine.

[0150] According to one aspect, the circular knitting machine is a “split” circular knitting machine.

[0151] According to another aspect, the present application also has as its object a method for realizing such a frame for a take-off and / or collecting group of a knitted fabric produced by a circular weft knitting machine.

[0152] In one aspect, the production method provides steps for realizing the parts constituting the frame.

[0153] In one aspect, the production method provides the step of connecting the plurality of parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner.

[0154] In one aspect, the step is to connect the parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner by welding.

[0155] In one aspect, the step of connecting the parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides for connection without the use of additional connecting means such as screws, bolts or nuts.

[0156] In one aspect, the production method provides that the steps of realizing the plurality of parts and the step of connecting the plurality of parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner are realized by molding.

[0157] In one aspect, the step is to connect the plurality of sections in an irremovable and irreversible manner to define a collection space therein.

[0158] In one aspect, the step of realizing the plurality of parts provides a step of realizing a first support element and a step of realizing a second support element.

[0159] Preferably, in the step of realizing the first supporting element, the first supporting element is realized as a straight tubular element, and the tubular element is shaped by bending.

[0160] More preferably, in the step of realizing the second supporting element, the second supporting element is realized as a straight tubular element, and the tubular element is shaped by bending.

[0161] In one aspect, the step of realizing the first support element comprises the step of realizing two first half-supports and the step of joining the first half-supports. Preferably, the step of realizing the first half-supports provides that the first half-supports are mirror images, and the step of joining the first half-supports is realized by welding.

[0162] In one aspect, the step of realizing the second support element comprises the step of realizing two second half-support parts and the step of connecting the second half-support parts. Preferably, the step of realizing the second half-support parts provides that the second half-support parts are mirror images, and the step of connecting the second half-support parts is realized by welding.

[0163] In one aspect, the step of realizing the plurality of portions may realize a plurality of reinforcement elements.

[0164] In one aspect, the step of connecting the plurality of portions in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides a method of connecting the plurality of reinforcing elements to the first support element and the second element, the plurality of reinforcing elements extending between the first support element and the second element.

[0165] In one aspect, the step of realizing the plurality of parts may realize at least one covering element.Preferably, the step of realizing the plurality of parts may realize at least one first covering element and at least one second covering element.

[0166] In one aspect, the step of connecting the multiple parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides a method for connecting (preferably by welding) the at least one covering element between the first support element and the second support element. Specifically, the at least one covering element is arranged as a covering layer of the multiple reinforcing elements. Preferably, the step of connecting the multiple parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner can be used to connect at least one first covering element within the frame and at least one second covering element outside the frame. Specifically, the at least one first covering element is inserted between the collecting space and the multiple reinforcing elements after the frame is formed, and the at least one second covering element is facing outward after the frame is formed.

[0167] In one aspect, the step of realizing the plurality of parts may realize at least one mounting element.

[0168] In one aspect, the step of connecting the parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides a method of connecting at least one mounting element to the first support element and / or the second support element, preferably by welding.

[0169] In one aspect, the step of realizing the plurality of portions constitutes a first lateral portion and a second lateral portion. Preferably, the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion are realized as two elements in a substantially planar layout.

[0170] In one aspect, the step of connecting the plurality of parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides for connecting the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion to the first support element and / or the second support element, preferably by welding. Preferably, the step of connecting the plurality of parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides for connecting (preferably by welding) the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion at their opposite longitudinal ends to the first support element and the second support element.

[0171] In one aspect, the step of realizing the plurality of parts provides the functionality of realizing a base portion.Preferably, the base portion comprises at least one base element, the longitudinal arrangement of which is substantially the same as the longitudinal arrangement of the first support element and / or the second support element.

[0172] In one aspect, the step of connecting the parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides a method of connecting, preferably by welding, the base portion to the first lateral portion and / or the second lateral portion.

[0173] In one aspect, the step of connecting the plurality of parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides for connecting the base portion, preferably by welding, to the first support element and / or the second support element. Preferably, the step of connecting the plurality of parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner provides for connecting the base portion to the first support element and / or the second support element at two opposite longitudinal ends. According to this aspect, the first support element and / or the second support element is connected, preferably by welding, to the first lateral portion, to the second lateral portion and to the base portion.

[0174] According to the invention, further features and advantages will be obtained from the detailed description of preferred but non-exclusive embodiments of a frame for a taking-off and / or collecting group, a taking-off and / or collecting group, a circular weft knitting machine, a method for producing the frame for a taking-off and / or collecting group and a method for implementing the taking-off and / or collecting group. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0175] The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes only and are therefore not limiting, in which:

[0176] - Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a frame for taking down and / or collecting groups according to the invention;

[0177] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A front view of a frame for removing and / or collecting the group;

[0178] - Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A side view of a frame for removing and / or collecting the group;

[0179] - Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A top view of a frame for removing and / or collecting the group;

[0180] - Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 An exploded view of the frame for removing and / or collecting the group;

[0181] - Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a frame for removing and / or collecting the group and some additional optional parts;

[0182] - Figure 7 A perspective view showing one embodiment of a removal and / or collection group which is also an object of the present invention;

[0183] - Figure 8Shows Figure 7 Another perspective view of the removal and / or collection group;

[0184] - Fig. 9 Shows Figure 7 A side view of a cross section of the removal and / or collection group;

[0185] - Fig.10 Shows Figure 7 a perspective view of a take-off and / or gathering set in which some elements are removed to allow observation of the layout of the knitted fabric;

[0186] - Fig.11 Shows Figure 7 Details of the take down and / or collection group;

[0187] - Fig.12 A perspective view of an embodiment of a circular weft knitting machine is shown, comprising Figures 7 to 11 The removal and / or collection group shown;

[0188] - Fig.13 Shows Fig.12 Another perspective view of a circular weft knitting machine in;

[0189] - Fig.14 Shows Fig.12 A perspective view of a circular knitting machine with some additional optional parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0190] With reference to the above-mentioned figures, in which the number 1 denotes as a whole the frame of a take-off and / or collecting group 100 for knitted fabric T manufactured by a circular weft knitting machine M according to the invention, for the sake of simplicity, hereinafter referred to as frame 1. Generally, identical or similar elements end up using the same reference numerals in their variant embodiments. In the following description, for reasons of simplicity of exposition, the take-off and / or collecting group 100 is simply denoted as group 100, and the circular weft knitting machine M is simply denoted as knitting machine M.

[0191] In particular, the frame 1 is configured to be used with a take-down and / or collecting group 100 configured for winding a knitted fabric produced by the circular knitting machine M.

[0192] like Fig.12 and Fig.13As shown, the group 100 is configured to be movably mounted to the knitting machine M. In the present application, the expression "movably mounted" is mentioned, which means that the group 100 can be mounted and removed on the knitting machine M and that once mounted on the knitting machine M, the group 100 can be moved relative to other components of the knitting machine, as will become clearer below. In other words, the group 100 is not realized integrally with the knitting machine M.

[0193] like Figure 12-14 As shown, the knitting machine M includes a knitting assembly 200, which is configured to make a knitted fabric T. The knitting assembly 200 is provided with at least one needle holding mechanism 201 in the shape of a needle holding cylinder or a needle holding plate. In addition, the knitting assembly 200 is provided with a plurality of needles movably mounted to the at least one needle holding mechanism 201 and a command device suitable for selectively actuating the plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the knitted fabric T to be manufactured. The needle holding mechanism 201 rotates around a substantially vertical central axis R and is configured to manufacture a knitted fabric T in a configuration that is at least partially tubular around the central axis R.

[0194] The knitting machine M comprises a base 300, Figure 12-14 The base 300 constitutes a support structure of the knitting machine M and is configured to support the knitting assembly 200 , defining an element in contact with a support surface of the knitting machine M. The base 300 defines a receiving space V below the knitting assembly 200 .

[0195] 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 considered as referring to the knitting machine M in use with respect to the vertical direction, i.e. perpendicular to the supporting surface of the machine.

[0196] Similarly, the terms "vertical", "vertically", "horizontal", "horizontally" and similar terms should be meant with reference to the knitting 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, and the horizontal direction is parallel to the support surface.

[0197] In the illustrated embodiment, the base 300 includes:

[0198] - an upper support ring 301 or an equivalent support element, on which the knitting assembly 200 is mounted in such a way that the needle holding mechanism 201 can rotate around a central axis;

[0199] at least two supporting legs 302, 303, 304 interposed between the upper ring 301 and the support surface, connected to the upper ring 301 at different and laterally spaced positions, so that the upper ring 301 maintains a vertical distance from the support surface.

[0200] In the embodiment shown, the base 300 comprises three supporting legs 302, 303, 304 in a substantially “L” shape. The three supporting legs delimit a receiving space V from the upper ring and from the supporting surface of the knitting machine M.

[0201] like Figure 12-14 As shown, the group 100 is configured to be mounted in a movable manner to the knitting machine M in a receiving space V. In particular, the receiving space V is configured to at least partially receive the group 100 and thus also at least partially the associated frame 1 .

[0202] Specifically, the group 100 rotates around the central axis R so as to wind the knitted fabric T manufactured by the knitting assembly 200. Therefore, the rotating entity determined by the rotation of the group 100 around the central axis R is at least partially accommodated in the accommodation space V.

[0203] The group 100 is mounted to the base 300 or to the knitting assembly 200. Preferably, the group 100 is directly or indirectly mounted to the needle holding mechanism 201 to rotate about the central axis R with the needle holding mechanism 201, preferably in a synchronized manner.

[0204] The frame 1 internally defines a collecting space S. As will become clearer below, the collecting space S is configured to allow collecting the knitted fabric T. In particular, the frame 1 is configured to movably support at least one collecting roller 101 located in the collecting space S. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the collecting roller 101 is configured to wind and collect the knitted fabric T manufactured by the knitting assembly 200. Specifically, the collecting roller 101 is configured to rotate about a rotation axis R1 so as to allow the knitted fabric manufactured by the knitting assembly 200 to be wound in a roll.

[0205] As Figure 1-4 As a result, the frame 1 is a one-piece frame, i.e. a monolithic frame. Specifically, the frame 1 comprises a plurality of parts that are continuous with each other and connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner. Referring to the expression "a plurality of parts", it is meant that each of the parts of the frame 1 has a single feature (e.g. a tubular, rod-like or planar shape) that distinguishes it from the adjacent parts. As clearly shown in the accompanying drawings, the plurality of parts constituting the frame 1 are connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner without using additional connection means such as, for example, screws, nuts or bolts.

[0206] Preferably, the parts of the frame 1 are seamlessly connected. In other words, there is material continuity between the parts and there are no physically distinct identifiable elements held in contact with each other by connecting means.

[0207] In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the frame 1 is realized by welding of components. Specifically, the parts of the frame 1 are connected in an immovable and irreversible manner by welding techniques such as additive welding (for example and not absolute limitation).

[0208] In another embodiment not shown, the frame 1 is realized in a single step, ie manufactured. According to this embodiment, the frame 1 is realized by molding.

[0209] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the frame 1 is arranged between an upper end Z1 and a lower end Z2 along a vertical axis Z. In use, the vertical axis Z coincides with a direction orthogonal to a support surface of the knitting machine M, in particular to a support surface of the base 300. Therefore, the arrangement of the frame 1 along the vertical axis Z coincides with the height of the frame 1, which is therefore equivalent to the distance along the vertical axis Z between the upper end Z1 and the lower end Z2.

[0210] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the view shown in FIG. 1 , the frame 1 is arranged along the longitudinal axis X between a first lateral end X1 and a second lateral end X2. Figure 1 As shown, the longitudinal axis X is orthogonal to the vertical axis Z, and the layout of the frame 1 along the longitudinal axis X coincides with the width of the frame 1, which is therefore equivalent to the distance between the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2 along the longitudinal axis X. Preferably, as shown in the figures, the layout of the frame along the longitudinal axis X (i.e. the width) coincides with the maximum layout dimension of the frame.

[0211] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the view shown in , the frame 1 is arranged along the transverse axis Y between the front end Y1 and the rear end Y2. Figure 1 As shown, the transverse axis Y corresponds to a direction orthogonal to the vertical axis Z and to the longitudinal axis X, and the arrangement along the transverse axis Y corresponds to the depth of the frame 1 .

[0212] like Figure 5 As is clearly shown in the exploded view of FIG. 1 , the frame 1 comprises an upper section 10 and a lower section 20. When the frame 1 is installed, the upper section 10 and the lower section 20 are continuous with each other and are connected in an immovable manner.

[0213] As from Fig.12 and Fig.13It can be understood that the upper section 10 is closer to the knitting assembly 200 relative to the lower section 20 when in use, that is, when the frame 1 is mounted on the knitting machine M. Therefore, the lower section 20 is closer to the support surface of the machine relative to the upper section 10 when in use, that is, when the frame 1 is mounted on the knitting machine M. According to the above, the upper section 10 includes at least an upper end Z1, and the lower section 20 includes at least a lower end Z2.

[0214] The upper section 10 comprises a first support element 11 and a second support element 12. Figure 4 As shown, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 extend from the first lateral end X1 to the second lateral end X2.

[0215] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are tubular elements, ie elements having a substantially circular cross section.

[0216] like Figure 1 As is apparent from the figure, the shapes of the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are set to define an upper opening A for the knitted fabric T manufactured by the knitting assembly 200 to pass through the collecting space S. Specifically, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 have a curved layout at least in one central portion thereof so as to define the aforementioned upper opening A.

[0217] Preferably, if Figure 4 As shown, the lateral arrangement of the first support element 11 (ie in a direction parallel to the lateral axis Y) is greater than the lateral arrangement of the second support element 12. In other words, the first support element 11 remains more curved relative to the second support element 12.

[0218] In the embodiment shown, the first support element 11 comprises a front end Y1 and the second support element 12 comprises a rear end Y2. Preferably, the upper opening A extends substantially in a direction parallel to the transverse axis Y from the front end Y1 to the rear end Y2.

[0219] Preferably, if Figure 4 As is clearly shown in FIG. 1 , the periphery of the upper opening A is mainly defined by the first support element 11 and mainly by the second support element 12. Therefore, the configuration of the upper opening A is not symmetrical about a plane perpendicular to the transverse axis Y. Referring again to FIG. Figure 4 It should be noted that the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 have a symmetrical structure about a symmetry plane PZ. The symmetry plane PZ is a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and preferably perpendicular to the support surface of the knitting machine M in which the frame 1 and the relative group 100 are mounted.

[0220] In the embodiment shown, the distance function between the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 takes a minimum value at least at the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2. Furthermore, the distance function takes a maximum value at least at the symmetry plane PZ.

[0221] like Figure 5 As shown in the exploded view of the frame, the first support element 11 comprises two first joint half-support portions 11', 11", which are preferably welded approximately at the symmetry plane PZ. Each of the first half-support portions 11', 11" extends from a respective lateral end X1, X2 of the frame to the symmetry plane PZ. In particular, the second half-support portions 11', 11" are mirror-shaped with respect to the symmetry plane PZ when in use.

[0222] Similar to the first support element 11, the second support element 12 also includes two second joint half-support portions 12', 12", which are preferably welded approximately at the symmetry plane PZ. Each of the second half-support portions 12', 12" extends from the corresponding lateral end X1, X2 of the frame 1 to the symmetry plane PZ. In particular, the second half-support portions 12', 12" are mirror-shaped with respect to the symmetry plane PZ when in use.

[0223] Preferably, the upper section 10 comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements 13. The plurality of reinforcing elements 13 extend between the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 and are configured to firmly connect the first support element 11 and the second support element 12. Each reinforcing element of the plurality of reinforcing elements 13 is arranged parallel to the transverse axis Y. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of reinforcing elements 13 are arranged mirror-imaged about the symmetry plane PZ (see Figure 4 ).

[0224] According to an embodiment, the plurality of reinforcing elements 13 comprises a number of reinforcing elements between two and sixteen. Preferably, the plurality of reinforcing elements 13 comprises a number of reinforcing elements between four and twelve. In the embodiment shown, the plurality of reinforcing elements 13 comprises eight reinforcing elements.

[0225] Each reinforcement element 13 is a tubular element which preferably extends in a direction substantially parallel to the transverse axis Y between the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 .

[0226] Preferably, if Figure 6 As shown, the upper section 10 includes at least one covering element 14, which extends between the first support element 11 and the second support element 12. Specifically, the upper section 10 includes at least one pair of covering elements 14, which are arranged in a mirrored manner about the symmetry plane PZ as a cover for at least a part of the plurality of reinforcing elements 13.

[0227] Preferably, the upper section 10 comprises at least one first pair of covering elements 14, which is arranged inside the frame and interposed between a portion of the reinforcing elements 13 and the collecting space S, and at least one second pair of covering elements 14, which is arranged outside the frame 1. In the view of the accompanying drawings, it turns out that only the second pair of covering elements can be seen, while the first pair of covering elements is positioned approximately at the second pair of covering elements so as to form an internal space that at least partially encloses the first supporting element 11, the second supporting element 12 and the plurality of reinforcing elements 13.

[0228] The upper section 10 comprises at least one mounting element 15 , 16 configured to allow the frame 1 to be connected to the knitting machine M and / or to allow one or more components of the group 100 to be mounted.

[0229] In the embodiment shown, the at least one mounting element comprises at least one first mounting element 15 configured to allow the mounting of a mounting device 100M suitable for allowing the frame 1 to be connected and thus the corresponding group 100 to the structure of the knitting machine M. In the embodiment shown, the at least one first mounting element 15 comprises a plurality of first mounting plates. In particular, the plurality of first mounting plates 15 consists of four first mounting plates.

[0230] Furthermore, the at least one mounting element comprises at least one second mounting element 16 configured to allow one or more components of the set 100 to be connected to the frame 1. In the embodiment shown, the at least one second mounting element 16 comprises at least one second mounting plate 16, in particular two second mounting plates.

[0231] like Figure 5 As clearly shown in the exploded view of FIG. 8 , the lower section 20 includes a base portion 30 , a first lateral portion 40 , and a second lateral portion 50 .

[0232] The base portion 30 is arranged in a substantially planar configuration between the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2. The base portion 30 comprises at least one base element 31, 32 extending between the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2. Preferably, the at least one base element 31, 32 comprises at least one beam 31, 32 extending substantially between the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2. By the term "beam" is meant any rod-shaped element having one dimension predominant relative to the other two dimensions.

[0233] like Figure 4 As shown, at least one beam 31 , 32 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X between a first lateral end X1 and a second lateral end X2 .

[0234] In the embodiment shown in the figures, at least one base element comprises a first beam 31 and a second beam 32 arranged in parallel, preferably at a distance parallel to the longitudinal axis X so as to form a track parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0235] In one aspect, the base portion 30 comprises at least one reinforcing beam 33 connecting the first beam 31 and the second beam 33. Preferably, the at least one reinforcing beam 33 is arranged between the first beam 31 and the second beam 32 parallel to the transverse axis Y. In the embodiment shown, the base portion 30 comprises at least one pair of reinforcing beams 33, preferably arranged in a mirrored manner about the symmetry plane PZ. The space formed between the first beam 31, the second beam 32 and the at least one pair of reinforcing beams 33 defines a bracket C suitable for defining a reclining seat for an operator, for example an employee in charge of performing maintenance operations on the group 100.

[0236] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the first lateral portion 40 is arranged at the first lateral end X1, and the second lateral portion 50 is arranged at the second lateral end X2. In particular, the first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 are arranged mirror-imaged about the symmetry plane PZ. The first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 are configured to support at least a portion of the components of the group 100, and at least a portion of the components of the group preferably extends between the first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0237] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first lateral portion 40 comprises a first plate and the second lateral portion 50 comprises a second plate. The first plate and the second plate are in a substantially planar layout and are arranged parallel to the symmetry plane PZ.

[0238] The first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 each include a plurality of receiving seats 41-43, 51-53, which are configured to be used for mounting at least one roll of the group 100. Specifically, the plurality of receiving seats include receiving channels 41, 51, which are configured to be used for receiving the collection roll 101 (see Figure 7 ) for loading and unloading. Preferably, Fig. 9 As shown, the receiving channels 41, 51 are arranged in a direction substantially parallel to the transverse axis Y. In an alternative embodiment, the receiving channels 41, 51 are arranged in a direction inclined relative to the transverse axis Y, effectively constituting a slide for loading and / or unloading of the collection roller. The receiving channels 41, 51 are configured to receive the fasteners F of the collection roller 101, which are configured to keep the collection roller 101 in position during the winding operation of the knitted fabric T.

[0239] According to the foregoing, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are connected to at least the first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50. In particular, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are connected to at least the first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 in an immovable and irreversible manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are connected to at least the first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 by welding.

[0240] In the embodiment shown, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are connected to the base portion 30. In particular, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 are connected to the base portion 30 in an immovable and irreversible manner, for example by welding. In fact, the first support element 11 and the second support element 12 extend over a substantially entire layout of the frame 1 along the vertical axis Z between the upper end Z1 and the lower end Z2, as shown from Fig. 9 It can be seen in the cross section.

[0241] Preferably, the first support element 11 comprises two first lateral columns 111, 112 and a first central crossbeam 113 interposed between the first lateral columns. The first lateral columns 111, 112 are arranged in a manner substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z and in a nearly linear arrangement when in use. In particular, the first lateral columns 111, 112 extend substantially between an upper end Z1 and a lower end Z2 and constitute contact points between the first support element 11 and the first lateral portion 40, the second lateral portion 50 and the base portion 30. The first central crossbeam 113 is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the first lateral columns 111, 112. In use, the first central crossbeam 113 is positioned parallel to a plane defined by the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y. Furthermore, the first central crossbeam 113 is arranged in a curved shape for at least partially defining the upper opening A. In practice, the first support element 11 constitutes a bent piece of tubular shape for defining the first lateral columns 111, 112 and the first central crossbeam 113. Specifically, the first support element 11 comprises two connecting portions at the longitudinal ends of the first central crossbeam 113 at the locations connected to the first lateral columns 111, 112. The connecting portions are curved and constitute the contact and transition points between the first central crossbeam 113 and the first lateral columns 111, 112.

[0242] In a manner substantially similar to the first support element 11, the second support element 12 also comprises two second lateral columns 121, 122 and a second central crossbeam 123 interposed between the second lateral columns 121, 122. The second lateral columns 121, 122 are arranged substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z in use and are arranged in an almost linear manner. In particular, the second lateral columns 121, 122 extend substantially between an upper end Z1 and a lower end Z2 and constitute contact points between the second support element 12 and the first lateral portion 40, the second lateral portion 50 and the base portion 30. The second central crossbeam 123 is arranged perpendicular to the second lateral columns 121, 122. In use, the second central crossbeam 123 is positioned parallel to the plane defined by the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y. The second central crossbeam 123 is arranged in a curved shape for at least partially defining the upper opening A. In general, the second support element 12 constitutes a curved piece of tubular shape for defining the second lateral posts 121, 122 and the second central crossbeam 123. In particular, the second support element 12 comprises two connecting portions at the longitudinal ends of the second central crossbeam 123 at the connection locations with the second lateral posts 121, 122. The connecting portions are curved and constitute the contact and transition points between the second central crossbeam 123 and the second lateral posts 121, 122.

[0243] Preferably, the frame 1 is realized almost entirely in metal material. By way of example and not an absolute limitation, the frame 1 is realized almost entirely in steel or a steel alloy.

[0244] As expected, the object of this application is a take-off and / or collection group 100 for a circular knitting machine, wherein the group 100 comprises at least the frame 1 described above. Figure 7-9 Each group 100 is shown in Fig.12 and Fig.13 The state in which it is mounted to a knitting machine M is shown.

[0245] The group 100 is configured to be movably mounted to the knitting machine M in an accommodation space V defined by a base 300 located below the knitting assembly 200 .

[0246] In one aspect, the removal and / or collection group includes a mounting device 100M that can be fixed to the base 300 or to the needle holding mechanism 201. The mounting device 100M is configured to firmly connect the group 100 to the base 300 or to the needle holding mechanism 201. In particular, the mounting device 100M is configured to mount the group 100 under the knitting assembly 200 of the knitting machine M.

[0247] As in Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the mounting device 100M is configured to be fixed to at least one first mounting element 15 of the frame 1, preferably to a plurality of first mounting plates. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting device 100M includes a plurality of mounting brackets configured to be fixed to the first mounting plate 15 at one end and to the needle holding mechanism 201 or to the base 300 at the opposite end. Conventionally, the mounting device 100M is exclusively arranged above the frame 1 and is not present below the frame and / or is not present laterally relative to the frame. The mounting device 100M is configured to transmit the rotational movement of the needle holding mechanism 201 to the group 100.

[0248] In the embodiment shown, the group 100 is entirely suspended from and supported by the needle holding mechanism 201. Alternatively, the group 100 can be entirely suspended from and supported by the base 300. In particular, the group 100 does not provide means for resting against a support surface of the knitting machine M. According to this aspect, the group 100 is defined as "suspended" from the circular knitting machine.

[0249] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the group 100 can comprise means of contact with a support surface of the knitting machine 24. For example, the contact means for taking down and / or collecting the group can comprise a plurality of wheels or supports configured to at least partially support the load of the group 100 and configured to allow it to rotate during operation of the knitting machine.

[0250] According to the illustration in the figures, the group 100 comprises a collecting reel 101 supported by the frame 1 and configured to wind the knitted fabric T produced by the knitting assembly 200 of the knitting machine M. Preferably, the collecting reel 101 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X and is configured to rotate about a first rotation axis R1 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0251] As in Fig. 9 As shown in the cross section in FIG. 1 , the group 100 defines an articulated path P of the fabric discharged from the knitting assembly 200, which ends at the collection reel 101. Specifically, the articulated path P starts from the upper opening A and ends at the collection reel 101. Therefore, the direction of the articulated path P is from the upper opening A to the collection reel 101. In the following, the arrangement of other components of the group 100 will be introduced according to the direction from the upper opening A to the collection reel 101 with reference to the articulated path P.

[0252] In the embodiment shown, the group 100 comprises at least one spreading roller 102 or tensioning roller, which is mounted to the frame 1 along the connection path P in a position upstream relative to the collection roller 101 and downstream relative to the upper opening A. The spreading roller 102 is configured to interact with the knitted fabric T advancing towards the collection roller 101 so as to spread the knitted fabric before being wound on the collection roller 101. In particular, the spreading roller 102 is shaped or is shaped so as to spread the fabric by tensioning it towards the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2. Preferably, the spreading roller 102 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X and is configured to rotate around a second rotation axis R2 substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X. In other words, the spreading roller 102 is arranged parallel to the collection roller 101 and is configured to spread the knitted fabric towards the first lateral portion 40 and towards the second lateral portion 50.

[0253] In the embodiment shown, the spreading roller 102 is movably mounted to the frame 1 and is able to change the separation distance between it and the collection roller 101. Specifically, the spreading roller 102 is mounted to the frame 1 by a pair of movable arms 103, which are preferably pivoted at the first lateral portion 40 and the second lateral portion 50 so that it can rotate around the third rotation axis R3.

[0254] The group 100 comprises at least one conveying roller 104 mounted to the frame 1 along the coupling path P in a position upstream relative to the collecting roller 101 and preferably upstream relative to the spreading roller 102. The at least one conveying roller 104 is configured to tension the knitted fabric and guide the knitted fabric along the coupling path P towards the collecting roller 101. Preferably, the at least one conveying roller 104 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X and is configured to rotate about a fourth rotation axis R4 parallel to the longitudinal axis X. In the illustrated embodiment, the group 100 comprises a pair of conveying rollers 104 in close proximity, which are mechanically coupled so that they can be operated simultaneously.

[0255] The group 100 comprises a flattening device 105 for the fabric T in the shape of a closed tubular fabric derived from the knitting assembly 200. The flattening device 105 is arranged in a position upstream relative to the various components of the group 100 along the connection path P. Preferably, the flattening device 105 is positioned approximately at the upper opening A. In the embodiment shown, the flattening device 105 comprises a pair of rollers arranged parallel to each other. The rollers are arranged in a manner close to each other so as to define a substantially rectilinear channel for the knitted fabric, thereby determining the approximate flattening of the knitted fabric in a tubular shape along the diameter, which is thus approximately in contact with each other in two layers. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the flattening device 105 can comprise a pair of rods arranged parallel to each other without causing significant changes in the structure or function of the group 100. Preferably, the flattening device 105 is fixed to the frame 1 at at least one second mounting element 16, i.e. at at least one second mounting plate.

[0256] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the group 100 comprises a cutting device 106 arranged downstream along the coupling path P relative to the leveling device 105. Fig.10 As shown, the cutting device 106 is configured to longitudinally cut a knitted fabric in a tubular shape produced by a circular knitting machine along preferably vertical generatrix lines so as to thereby unroll and wind the knitted fabric in a single layer on a collecting reel 101, as is typically found in "open" circular knitting machines.

[0257] In the embodiment shown, the group 100 also comprises spreading devices 107 for the fabric which is discharged in the form of a single layer in the slit circular knitting machine directly from the needle holding mechanism 201 or obtained by the action of the cutting device 106. These spreading devices 107 are arranged downstream of the flattening device 105 and the cutting device 106 (if provided) along the connection path P and upstream of at least one conveying roller 104, the spreading roller 102 and the collecting roller 101. The spreading devices 107 are configured to spread the fabric discharged from the flattening device 105 and finally cut longitudinally by the cutting device 106 (if provided).

[0258] As in Figure 8 As shown, the spreading device 107 comprises at least one spreading rod, which is preferably fixedly mounted to the frame 1 and is configured to define the openings of the two lateral peripheral edges of the fabric in a continuously spaced manner. Fig.10, the knitted fabric T flowing through the spreading rod along its connection path is spread in the form of a single-layer fabric. In the embodiment shown, the spreading rod extends longitudinally between the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2 and is shaped as a whole in a circular "V" shape, i.e., it has a curved or circumferential arc-shaped central part and two straight-line parts extending from both sides of the central part in opposite directions and terminating at the first lateral end X1 and the second lateral end X2, respectively. Preferably, the spreading rod is shaped substantially symmetrically about the symmetry plane PZ.

[0259] The set 100 includes a mounting structure 108 configured to mount the cutting device 106 and / or the spreading device 107 on the frame 1, such as Fig.11 Preferably, the mounting structure 108 is connected to the frame 1 at at least one second mounting element 16, in particular at a second mounting plate.

[0260] In order to move the movable components described above, the group 100 includes a plurality of actuators. In the illustrated embodiment, the group 100 includes at least one of the following actuators:

[0261] - an actuator M1 of the take-up roller configured to determine the rotation of the take-up roller 101 about an associated first axis of rotation R1 ;

[0262] - an actuator M2 of the spreading roller configured to determine the rotation of the spreading roller 102 about an associated second axis of rotation R3;

[0263] - an actuator M3 of a pair of movable arms configured to determine the rotation of the pair of movable arms 103 about a third axis of rotation R3 so as to vary the distance between the spreading roller 102 and the collecting roller 101;

[0264] an actuator M4 of at least one transport roller, configured to determine the rotation of the at least one transport roller 104 about a fourth axis of rotation R4;

[0265] - an actuator M5 of the flattening device configured to determine the rotation of the flattening roller about a relative axis of rotation, preferably parallel to the transverse axis Y;

[0266] An actuator M6 of the cutting device, which is configured to activate the cutting device 106 and determine the longitudinal opening of the tubular knitted fabric emerging from the knitting assembly 200 .

[0267] As in Fig.14 As shown by way of example in the figure, the circular knitting machine M, in the case where it uses a taking-off and / or collecting group 100, can include other components, such as:

[0268] - Components of the braiding assembly 200, such as covers, cams, thread guides, etc.;

[0269] - A U-shaped conical retainer structure positioned above the braided assembly 200;

[0270] A plurality of closing cages G closing the containing space V in which the group 100 is contained (the group thus remains closed in the cage during use).

[0271] The closed cage G is mounted (e.g. pivoted) to the base 300 in such a way that it can be moved at least between a closed configuration, in which it delimits the accommodation space V and prevents access to the accommodation space from the outside, and an open configuration, in which it allows access to the accommodation space V. In particular, the closed cage G is configured, together with the base 300, to accommodate a rotating entity generated by the rotation of the removal and / or collection group 100 around the central axis R.

[0272] The closing cage G is suitable for allowing safe operation of the knitting machine M: in fact, the taking-off and / or collecting group 100 operates in the containing space V by rotating about the central axis R, so it is necessary to make this space inaccessible during operation of the machine to avoid accidental contact with the moving mechanisms.

[0273] Conversely, the closed cage G must also allow access to the interior of the containment space V for configuration and maintenance operations on the knitting machine M or on the group 100 or for loading / unloading operations on the collecting reel 101. According to an embodiment, the cage G can each be selectively opened manually or automatically. Fig.14 In the embodiment shown in , the closed cage G is composed of three pairs of cages, each pair of cages being suitable for delimiting a receiving space V in a space defined between a pair of supporting legs 302 , 303 , 304 of the base 300 .

[0274] Advantages of the present invention

[0275] The present invention has important advantages.

[0276] As can be seen from what has been broadly described above, the use of a one-piece frame 1 (i.e. a one-piece frame comprising a plurality of parts that are continuous with one another and connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner) in a removal and / or collection group constitutes a characteristic element of the invention which distinguishes it particularly from known solutions. Thanks to this characteristic element, the invention allows overcoming the disadvantages of known types of removal and / or collection groups.

[0277] Firstly, the described object frame 1 allows a particularly accurate positioning of the components of the relevant removal and / or collection group. Furthermore, the frame 1 according to the above description also ensures a particularly stable and permanent relative positioning of the components of the relevant removal and / or collection group. Ensuring a precise, stable and permanent positioning of the components of the group 100 allows to minimize aesthetic and / or structural defects (such as creases, wrinkles and / or waves) that may occur during the winding of the knitted fabric produced by the circular knitting machine into rolls.

[0278] In addition, the frame 1 is rendered particularly reliable and structurally robust. In particular, the structure of the frame 1 is rendered simple and rational.

[0279] Furthermore, the frame 1 occupies little space and is particularly light. This advantageous result is considered from the perspective of the energy consumption of the knitting machine.

[0280] Furthermore, these advantages of the frame 1 also have an impact on the associated removal and / or collection group 100. Firstly, the collection group 100 allows the provision of winding a knitted fabric produced by a circular knitting machine without aesthetic and / or structural defects such as creases, wrinkles and / or waves.

[0281] The group 100 thus ensures a high-quality winding of the knitted fabric produced by the corresponding circular knitting machine.

[0282] The taking down and / or collecting group 100 is rendered particularly reliable thanks to the robustness of the frame 1. In addition, the maintenance operations required for the efficient winding of the knitted fabric produced by the circular knitting machine are reduced to a minimum.

[0283] Furthermore, the installation of the group 100 in a circular knitting machine is particularly accurate and easy to perform.

[0284] In view of the above, a circular knitting machine provided with a take-off and / or collection group 100 ensures high-quality automatic winding of the knitted fabric produced. In particular, the automatic winding is rendered reliable and efficient. In addition, the knitting machine according to the description requires only very limited maintenance and / or management intervention.

Claims

1. A frame (1) for a removal and / or collection group (100) for knitted fabric (T) produced by a circular weft knitting machine (M), the removal and / or collection group (100) being configured to be movably mounted to the circular knitting machine (M); the circular knitting machine (M) comprising: - 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 said at least one needle holding mechanism, and provided with a command device suitable for selectively actuating said plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of said knitted fabric (T); - a base (300) constituting a supporting structure of the circular knitting machine (M) and configured to support the knitting assembly (200), the base (300) defining a receiving space (V) below the knitting assembly (200), The frame (1) is configured to be movably mounted to the circular knitting machine (M) in the accommodation space (V); The frame (1) internally defines a collecting space (S) and is further configured to movably support at least one collecting roller (101) in the collecting space (S), wherein the collecting roller (101) is configured to wind and collect the knitted fabric (T) manufactured by the circular knitting machine (M); The frame (1) is a one-piece frame, that is, a one-piece frame comprising a plurality of parts which are continuous with each other and connected in an irremovable and irreversible manner.

2. A frame (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The multiple parts of the frame are connected in an immovable and irreversible manner without using additional connecting devices such as, for example, screws, nuts or bolts; and / or wherein the multiple parts are seamlessly connected; and / or wherein the multiple parts of the frame are connected in an immovable and irreversible manner by welding; and / or wherein the frame (1) is realized as a whole, i.e. preferably manufactured in a single step by molding; and / or wherein the frame (1) is mainly realized in metal material, preferably in steel or in a steel alloy.

3. The frame (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising an upper section (10) and a lower section (20), wherein the upper section (10) and the lower section (20) are continuous and are connected to each other in an immovable manner; and / or wherein the upper section (10) is closer to the braided assembly (200) relative to the lower section (20) when in use; and / or wherein, The upper section (10) includes a first support element (11) and a second support element (12), wherein the first support element (11) and / or the second support element (12) are preferably tubular elements; and / or wherein the shapes of the first support element (11) and the second support element (12) are set to define an upper opening (A) for the knitted fabric (T) discharged from the weaving component (200) to pass through the collecting space (S); and / or wherein the first support element (11) and / or the second support element (12) have a structure that is symmetrical about a vertical symmetry plane (PZ).

4. A frame (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The upper section (10) comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements (13), which extend between the first support element (11) and the second support element (12) and are configured to firmly connect the first support element (11) and the second support element (12); and / or wherein the plurality of reinforcing elements (13) are arranged in a mirror-like manner with respect to the symmetry plane (PZ); and / or wherein the number of reinforcing elements included in the plurality of reinforcing elements (13) is between two and sixteen, preferably between four and twelve, and further more preferably equal to eight; and / or wherein each of the plurality of reinforcing elements (13) is a tubular element; and / or wherein the upper section (10) comprises at least one pair of covering elements (14), which extend between the first support element (11) and the second support element (12); and / or wherein the at least one pair of covering elements (14) are arranged in a mirror-like manner with respect to the symmetry plane (PZ) as a cover for at least a portion of the plurality of reinforcing elements (13).

5. A frame (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The upper section (10) comprises at least one mounting element (15, 16), which is configured to allow the frame (1) to be connected to the circular knitting machine (M) and / or to allow the installation of one or more components of the removal and / or collection group (100); and / or wherein the at least one mounting element comprises at least one first mounting element (15), which is configured to allow the installation of a mounting device (100M), which is suitable for allowing the frame (1) to be connected to the circular knitting machine (M); and / or wherein the at least one first mounting element (15) comprises a plurality of first mounting plates, the number of first mounting plates included in the plurality of first mounting plates includes between two and eight, preferably includes between three and six, and further more preferably equal to four; and / or wherein the at least one mounting element comprises at least one second mounting element (16), which is configured to allow one or more components of the removal and / or collection group (100) to be connected to the frame (1), and the at least one second mounting element (16) includes at least one second mounting plate.

6. The frame (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The lower section (20) comprises a base portion (30); and / or wherein the base portion (30) comprises at least one beam (31, 32), preferably the base portion (30) comprises a first beam (31) and a second beam (32) arranged parallel to each other; and / or wherein the base portion (30) comprises at least one pair of reinforcing beams (33) connecting the first beam (31) to the second beam (32); and / or wherein the first beam (31), the second beam (32) and the at least one pair of reinforcing beams (33) define a bracket (C), which is suitable for defining a reclining seat for an operator.

7. The frame (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The lower section (20) comprises a first lateral portion (40) and a second lateral portion (50), wherein the first lateral portion (40) and the second lateral portion (50) are configured to support at least a portion of the components of the associated removal and / or collection group (100); and / or wherein the first lateral portion (40) and the second lateral portion (50) are arranged in a mirror-like manner with respect to the symmetry plane (PZ); and / or wherein the first lateral portion (40) comprises a first plate, which has a substantially planar layout and is arranged parallel to the symmetry plane (PZ); and / or wherein, The second lateral portion (50) includes a second plate, which is roughly planar and arranged parallel to the symmetry plane (PZ); and / or wherein the first lateral portion (40) and the second lateral portion (50) each include a plurality of accommodating seats (41-43, 51-53), the plurality of accommodating seats being configured for mounting at least one roller of the removal and / or collection group (100), the plurality of accommodating seats including accommodating grooves (41, 51), the accommodating grooves being configured for loading and unloading the collection roller (101) of the removal and / or collection group (100).

8. A frame (1) according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein: The first support element (11) and the second support element (12) are connected to at least the first lateral portion (40) and the second lateral portion (50) in an immovable and irreversible manner; and / or wherein the first support element (11) and the second support element (12) are connected to the base portion (30) in an immovable and irreversible manner; and / or wherein the first support element (11) comprises two first lateral columns (111, 112) and a first central cross beam (113) interposed between the first lateral columns; and / or wherein , the second supporting element (12) includes two second lateral columns (121, 122) and a second central cross beam (123) inserted between the second lateral columns; and / or wherein the first lateral columns (111, 112) and the second lateral columns (121, 122) contact the first lateral portion (40), the second lateral portion (50) and / or the base portion (30); and / or wherein the first central cross beam (113) and the second central cross beam (123) are arranged in a curved shape to at least partially define the upper opening (A).

9. A removal and / or collection group (100) for a knitted fabric (T) manufactured by a circular weft knitting machine (M), the removal and / or collection group (100) being configured to be movably mounted to the circular knitting machine (M); the circular knitting machine (M) comprising: - 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, a plurality of needles movably mounted to said at least one needle holding mechanism, and a command device suitable for selectively actuating said plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of said knitted fabric (T); - a base (300) constituting a supporting structure of the circular knitting machine (M) and configured to support the knitting assembly (200), the base (300) defining a receiving space (V) below the knitting assembly (200); The removal and / or collection group (100) is configured to be movably mounted to the circular knitting machine (M) in the accommodation space (V); The taking-down and / or collecting group (100) comprises a frame (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

10. The removal and / or collection group (100) according to the preceding claims comprises a mounting device (100M) fixable to the needle holding mechanism (201) or fixable to the base (300), wherein the mounting device (100M) is configured to mount the removal and / or collection group (100) below the knitting component (200) and is configured to transmit the rotational movement of the needle holding mechanism (201) to the removal and / or collection group (100); and / or wherein, The mounting device (100M) is configured to be fixed to the at least one first mounting element (15) of the frame (1); and / or wherein the mounting device (100M) comprises a plurality of mounting brackets.

11. The removal and / or collection group (100) according to claim 9 or claim 10, comprising a collection roller (101), which is supported by the frame (1) and is configured to wind the knitted fabric (T) manufactured by the knitting assembly (200), and the collection roller (101) is configured to rotate around a first rotation axis (R1); and / or where The removal and / or collection group (100) comprises at least one of the following components: - a spreading roller (102) or a tensioning roller, configured to interact with the knitted fabric (T) advancing towards the collecting roller (101) in order to spread the knitted fabric before being wound on the collecting roller (101), the spreading roller (102) being configured to rotate about a second rotation axis (R2) and preferably arranged parallel to the collecting roller (101); - a pair of movable arms (103) supported by the frame (1) and configured to change the distance between the spreading roller (102) and the collecting roller (101), the pair of movable arms (103) being configured to rotate about a third rotation axis (R3); - at least one transfer roller (104) supported by the frame (1) and configured to tension the knitted fabric (T) and to guide it towards the collecting roller (101), the at least one transfer roller (104) being configured to rotate about a fourth rotation axis (R4) and preferably being arranged parallel to the collecting roller (101); - a flattening device (105) supported by said frame (1) and configured to determine the approximate flattening of said knitted fabric (T) of tubular shape; - a cutting device (106) supported by the frame (1) and configured to cut the knitted fabric (T) longitudinally along preferably vertical generatrix lines; - spreading means (107) supported by the frame (1) and configured to spread the knitted fabric (T).

12. A circular weft knitting machine (M), comprising: - 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, a plurality of needles movably mounted to said at least one needle holding mechanism, and a command device suitable for selectively actuating said plurality of needles and suitable for allowing the manufacture of said knitted fabric (T); - a base (300) constituting a supporting structure of the circular knitting machine (M) and configured to support the knitting assembly (200), the base (300) defining a receiving space (V) below the knitting assembly (200); - A removal and / or collecting group (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, said one removal and / or collecting group (100) being intended to be movably mounted to said circular knitting machine (M) in said accommodation space (V).

13. A method for realizing a frame (1) for a removal and / or collection group (100) of a knitted fabric (T) produced by a circular weft knitting machine (M), the method comprising at least the following steps: - Implement the multiple parts that make up the framework; - Associating the parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner.

14. The implementation method according to the preceding claim, wherein: The step of associating the multiple parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner is performed by welding; and / or wherein the step of associating the multiple parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner does not use additional connecting devices such as screws, bolts or nuts; and / or wherein the step of realizing the multiple parts and the step of associating the multiple parts in an irremovable and irreversible manner are simultaneously achieved by molding.

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