Air spinning machine and attracting and catching device

Abstract

The invention provides an air spinning machine and an attracting and catching device. A suction / capture device (50) provided in an air spinning machine (1) is provided with: a suction / capture pipe (61A) which extends from a base end (61Aa), which is a connection part between the suction / capture pipe and a suction line (41), to a tip end (61Ab), and through which suction air flows from the tip end to the base end; a suction / capture port (51) formed at the tip of the suction / capture pipe; a holding part (70) for holding the yarn (Y) sucked from the suction catching port (51) in the suction catching pipe (61A); and a cutter (85) for cutting the yarn (Y) sucked from the suction catching port (51) in the suction catching pipe (61A). The holding part (70), the cutter (85), and the base end part (61Aa) are disposed downstream of the first suction port (51) in this order in the flow direction of the suction air.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to an air spinning machine and a suction and catching device. Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-130239) discloses an air spinning machine (spinning machine) equipped with a suction and catching device (fixed catching device) capable of catching yarn on the package side if the yarn becomes disconnected between the spinning device and the winding device. The fixed catching device includes a suction pipe having a suction port and is connected to a blower. The fixed catching device captures the yarn by sucking the yarn from the suction port using a suction airflow generated within the suction pipe.

[0003] However, because the conventional fixed catching device captures the yarn solely by suction, the captured state can sometimes be unstable. Furthermore, the yarn drawn from the suction port swirls or entangles within the suction tube, causing unstable yarn movement within the suction tube to propagate to yarns outside the suction port. This phenomenon can also hinder the stabilization of the captured state. Instability in the captured state can lead to problems with the yarn splicing process, for example. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, an object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide an air spinning machine and a suction and catching device that can maintain a stable catching state when sucking and catching a yarn.

[0005] An air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a plurality of spinning units, each of which has an air spinning device for twisting a fiber bundle by using a swirling air flow to generate a yarn, a winding device for winding the yarn supplied from the air spinning device to form a package, a yarn storage device for storing the yarn between the air spinning device and the winding device, and a suction and catching device, wherein the suction and catching device is arranged between the yarn storage device and the winding device, and attracts and catches the yarn on the package side when the yarn is disconnected between the air spinning device and the winding device; a suction duct, which is connected to the plurality of suction and catching devices respectively; and a blower for sucking The guide duct generates a flow of suction air, and the suction and capturing devices respectively include: a first suction piping, which extends from the base end portion serving as a connection portion between the first suction piping and the suction duct to the top end portion, for suction air to flow from the top end portion to the base end portion; a first suction port, which is formed at the top end portion of the first suction piping; a holding portion, which holds the yarn sucked from the first suction port in the first suction piping; and a cutter, which cuts the yarn sucked from the first suction port in the first suction piping, and in the flow direction of the suction air, the holding portion, the cutter and the base end portion are arranged in this order at a position downstream of the first suction port.

[0006] In this air spinning machine, the yarn drawn from the first suction port is held within the first suction duct by a retaining portion. This ensures a stable state of the yarn from the first suction port to the retaining portion. Furthermore, in this air spinning machine, the yarn drawn from the first suction port is cut by a cutter located downstream of the retaining portion within the first suction duct. This prevents the yarn from swirling or becoming entangled within the suction duct, causing it to move outside the first suction port. As a result, a stable capture state is maintained when the yarn is captured by suction.

[0007] In the air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention, the holding portion may function as a shutter for shutting off the flow of suction air in the first suction duct. In this configuration, when the holding portion holds the yarn, for example, the flow of suction air in the first suction duct is shut off, thereby reducing energy consumption in the blower.

[0008] In an air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention, the holding portion may be configured to be able to advance and retreat relative to a holding area within the first suction duct and to hold the yarn by entering the holding area. In this configuration, the holding portion can achieve both the function of holding the yarn and the function of a gate with a simple structure.

[0009] In an air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention, the first suction duct may include a curved portion, the holding region may be formed to include the curved portion, and the holding portion may switch between a yarn holding state and a yarn non-holding state by linear motion. In this configuration, the linear motion of the holding portion presses the yarn bent by the curved portion, thereby more reliably holding the yarn and more reliably interrupting the flow of suction air in the first suction duct.

[0010] In an air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention, the inner circumferential surface of the first suction pipe may have a circular cross-sectional shape, and the retaining portion may include a cylindrical rod and a tapered tip portion that tapers to a narrower point. The tip portion is located on the entry side, and when the retaining portion enters the retaining area, at least a portion of the rod enters the interior of the first suction pipe upstream of the curved portion. In this configuration, the tapered tip portion of the retaining portion allows the retaining portion to automatically align when entering the interior of the first suction pipe, thereby reducing retaining errors caused by the retaining portion.

[0011] In an air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention, a second suction pipe may be provided, the second suction pipe having a second suction port disposed so as to oppose a portion of a yarn path between the air spinning device and the yarn accumulation device, wherein the second suction pipe merges with the first suction pipe at a position upstream of a position where the holding portion holds the yarn in the direction of flow of suction air in the first suction pipe. In this configuration, a single component (i.e., the holding portion) can function as a gate in each of the suction pipes leading to the plurality of suction ports (the first suction port and the second suction port).

[0012] The air spinning machine according to one aspect of the present invention may further include a control unit that controls the timing of the cutter operation so that the timing is the same as or later than the timing of the holding unit operation. In this configuration, the yarn can be cut while the yarn is held by the holding unit, thereby enabling stable yarn cutting.

[0013] In one aspect of the present invention, an air spinning machine may include a cover covering the cutter. This structure prevents waste from adhering to the cutter (while also saving energy) without requiring a conventional waste blow-off mechanism. If waste adheres to the cutter, the cutting function is impaired. To prevent this impairment, a separate waste blow-off mechanism has been installed on the cutter.

[0014] The suction and catching device of one aspect of the present invention is used in a spinning unit, which has an air spinning device that uses a swirling air flow to twist a fiber bundle to generate yarn, a winding device that winds the yarn supplied from the air spinning device to form a package, and a yarn storage device that stores the yarn between the air spinning device and the winding device. The suction and catching device has: a first suction piping, which extends from a base end portion serving as a connection portion between the first suction piping and the suction duct to a top end portion, for suction air to flow from the top end portion to the base end portion, and has a bent portion formed in a portion, wherein the suction duct and the suction duct are connected to each other. The air intake port is connected to the first suction port, the first suction port being formed at the top end of the first suction pipe; a holding portion holding the yarn sucked from the first suction port in the first suction pipe; and a cutter cutting the yarn sucked from the first suction port in the first suction pipe. In the flow direction of the suction air, the holding portion, the cutter and the base end portion are arranged in this order at a position downstream of the first suction port, and the holding portion is configured to be able to move forward and backward relative to a holding area formed in a manner including a curved portion of the first suction pipe, and to hold the yarn when entering the holding area.

[0015] In this suction and capture device, the yarn drawn from the first suction port is held by the retaining portion within the first suction conduit, ensuring a stable state of the yarn as it travels from the first suction port to the retaining portion. Furthermore, the yarn drawn from the first suction port is cut by a cutter positioned downstream of the retaining portion within the first suction conduit. This prevents the yarn from swirling or becoming entangled within the suction conduit, causing it to move beyond the first suction port. As a result, a stable capture state is maintained during the suction and capture of the yarn.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, when the yarn is sucked and captured, a stable captured state can be maintained. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a front view of a spinning machine according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of a spinning unit included in a spinning machine.

[0019] Figure 3 Yes Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of a guide portion included in a spinning unit.

[0020] Figure 4 Yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a yarn accumulation device included in a spinning unit.

[0021] Figure 5AIt means in Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a holding portion in a suction and catching device included in a spinning unit, wherein the holding portion is in a non-holding state and a non-interrupting state.

[0022] Figure 5B It means in Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a holding portion in a holding state and a cut-off state in a suction and catching device included in a spinning unit.

[0023] Figure 6A It is a perspective view of a suction and capture device according to a modified example.

[0024] Figure 6B It is a perspective view of another modified example of the suction and capture device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] An embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that in the description of the drawings, identical or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted. "Upstream" and "downstream" refer to upstream and downstream in the direction of travel of the yarn Y during spinning, or upstream and downstream in the direction of suction of the yarn Y by the suction and capture device. The dimensional ratios in the drawings do not necessarily correspond to those shown in the description.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the air spinning machine 1 includes a main frame 2A, a first end frame 4, a second end frame 5, a yarn joining trolley 3, and a doffing trolley (not shown). The first end frame 4, the main frame 2A, and the second end frame 5 are arranged in one direction. The main frame 2A primarily houses a plurality of spinning units 2 that generate yarn Y and wind it into packages P, and a suction duct 41. The plurality of spinning units 2 are arranged in one direction on the main frame 2A. The suction duct 41 is arranged along the direction in which the plurality of spinning units 2 are arranged.

[0027] A portion of the suction duct 41, a blower 43, a recovery box 45, etc. are arranged on the first end frame 4. The first end frame 4 is arranged at one end in the arrangement direction of the plurality of spinning units 2. The blower 43 generates a suction air flow in the suction duct 41 arranged across the first end frame 4 and the main frame 2A. The blower 43 is driven by a blower motor (not shown). The blower 43 is connected to the suction duct 41 via the recovery box 45. The recovery box 45 uses the suction air flow flowing in the suction duct 41 and a filter (not shown) to recover the yarn ends and the like generated in each spinning unit 2. Each spinning unit 2 is equipped with a yarn end suction port (second suction port) 20B, a residual yarn suction port (second suction port) 11F, and a suction and catching port (first suction port) 51 of the suction and catching device 50, which will be described in detail later. The yarn end suction port 20B, the residual yarn suction port 11F, and the suction and catching port 51 are connected to the recovery box 45 via the suction duct 41. The suction air flows between the yarn end suction port 20B and the recovery box 45 , between the remaining yarn suction port 11F and the recovery box 45 , and between the suction and catching port 51 and the recovery box 45 .

[0028] The second end frame 5 houses an air pressure regulator, a drive motor, and other components. The air pressure regulator is provided to regulate the pressure of compressed air supplied from an air pressure supply device (not shown) located within the textile mill where the air spinning machine 1 is installed, and to supply air to various components of the air spinning machine 1. The drive motor supplies power to various components of the spinning unit 2.

[0029] The second end frame 5 is provided with a machine controller 15 and an input device 18. The machine controller 15 centrally manages and controls various components of the air spinning machine 1. The machine controller 15 includes an input / output interface for external signal input / output, a storage unit such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs and information used for processing, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and a communication circuit. Based on signals output by the CPU, the machine controller 15 stores input data in the RAM and loads programs stored in the ROM into the RAM. The machine controller 15 then executes the programs loaded into the RAM to perform various processes.

[0030] The input device 18 includes a display screen 16 and input keys 17. The display screen 16 can display information related to at least one of the settings and status of the spinning unit 2. The operator can perform settings for the spinning unit 2 by performing appropriate operations using the input keys 17. When the display screen 16 is configured as a touch panel display, the display screen 16 and the input keys 17 are integrally formed. The input device 18 can set the spinning conditions of the air spinning device 7 using the display screen 16 or the input keys 17. Spinning conditions include the type of yarn, the thickness of the yarn Y, the spinning speed, and the like. The machine controller 15 controls various components of the air spinning machine 1 based on these spinning conditions.

[0031] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, each spinning unit 2 is provided with a drafting device 6, an air spinning device 7, a guide portion 20, a yarn monitoring device 8, a tension sensor 9, a yarn storage device 11, a wax coating device 12 and a winding device 13 in order from the upstream side in the direction of travel of the yarn Y. The drafting device 6, the air spinning device 7, the guide portion 20, the yarn monitoring device 8, the tension sensor 9, the yarn storage device 11, the wax coating device 12 and the winding device 13 are fixed to the main frame 2A. A unit controller (control unit) 10 is provided for each predetermined number of spinning units 2 and controls the operation of the spinning unit 2. It should be noted that the unit controller 10 can also be provided in each spinning unit 2. The unit controller 10 controls the operation timing of the cutter 85 and the holding portion 70 described in detail later.

[0032] The drafting device 6 drafts the sliver S. The drafting device 6 includes, from upstream in the direction of travel of the sliver S, a back roller pair, a third roller pair, an intermediate roller pair, and a front roller pair. Each roller pair includes a bottom roller and a top roller. The bottom roller is rotationally driven by a drive motor (not shown) provided on the second end frame 5 or a drive motor (not shown) provided on each drafting device 6.

[0033] The air spinning device 7 twists the fiber bundle F drawn by the drafting device 6 using a swirling air flow to generate a yarn Y. The air spinning device 7 supplies the generated yarn Y downstream. In more detail (but not shown in the figure), the air spinning device 7 includes a spinning chamber, a fiber guide portion, a swirling air flow generating nozzle, and a hollow guide shaft. The fiber guide portion guides the fiber bundle F supplied from the drafting device 6 on the upstream side into the spinning chamber. The swirling air flow generating nozzle is arranged around the path along which the fiber bundle F travels. A swirling air flow is generated in the spinning chamber by ejecting air from the swirling air flow generating nozzle. The swirling air flow causes the fiber ends of the plurality of fibers constituting the fiber bundle F to reverse and swirl. The hollow guide shaft guides the yarn Y from the spinning chamber to the outside of the air spinning device 7.

[0034] The guide portion 20 limits the yarn path of the yarn Y to a predetermined position. Figure 3 As shown, the guide section 20 is provided on a resin base 2Aa mounted on the main frame 2A. The guide section 20 includes a yarn guide 20A having a V-shaped yarn guide groove 20Aa and a thread end suction port (second suction port) 20B capable of sucking thread ends.

[0035] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the yarn guide 20A stabilizes the yarn path of the yarn Y passing through the yarn monitoring device 8 and the tension sensor 9. The lint suction port 20B is formed at the tip of the lint suction pipe (second suction pipe) 61C. The lint suction pipe 61C is connected to the suction duct 41 via the remaining yarn suction pipe (second suction pipe) 61B and the suction and catching pipe (first suction pipe) 61A. This allows a suction airflow to be generated at the lint suction port 20B. The lint suction pipe 61C extends from its base end, which serves as the connection between the lint suction pipe 61C and the remaining yarn suction pipe 61B (second connection portion 62), to its tip end, where the lint suction port 20B is formed.

[0036] The yarn monitoring device 8 monitors the condition of the traveling yarn Y between the air spinning device 7 and the yarn accumulation device 11. The yarn monitoring device 8 monitors the condition of the traveling yarn Y and, based on the monitored information, detects the presence of yarn defects. Upon detecting a yarn defect, the yarn monitoring device 8 transmits a yarn defect detection signal to the unit controller 10. Upon receiving the yarn defect detection signal from the yarn monitoring device 8, the unit controller 10 stops the operation of the air spinning device 7, thereby cutting the yarn Y. The yarn Y can also be cut by stopping the drafting (rotation of the back roller pair) performed by the drafting device 6.

[0037] The tension sensor 9 measures the tension of the traveling yarn Y between the air spinning device 7 and the yarn accumulation device 11 and transmits a measurement signal to the unit controller 10 .

[0038] The yarn accumulation device 11 accumulates the yarn Y between the air spinning device 7 and the winding device 13. The yarn accumulation device 11 has the following functions: stably drawing the yarn Y from the air spinning device 7; retaining the yarn Y fed from the air spinning device 7 to prevent the yarn Y from slackening during, for example, a yarn splicing operation by the yarn splicing device 35; and adjusting the tension of the yarn Y on the winding device 13 side to prevent fluctuations in the tension of the yarn Y on the winding device 13 side from being transmitted to the air spinning device 7.

[0039] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the yarn accumulation device 11 includes a yarn accumulation roller 11A, an electric motor 11B, a yarn accumulation amount sensor 11C, a yarn hooking member 11D, a yarn separating member 11E, a residual yarn suction port 11F, a first guide member 11J, and a second guide member 11K.

[0040] The yarn accumulating roller 11A is fixed to the drive shaft of the electric motor 11B and is rotated by the electric motor 11B. The yarn accumulating portion 11Aa of the yarn accumulating roller 11A is the cylindrical portion around which the yarn Y is wound. The yarn accumulating amount sensor 11C is a sensor that detects the presence of the yarn Y on the yarn accumulating roller 11A in a non-contact manner. The yarn accumulating amount sensor 11C is positioned opposite the yarn accumulating portion 11Aa. When the amount of yarn Y wound on the yarn accumulating roller 11A reaches the lower limit, the yarn accumulating amount sensor 11C transmits a lower limit accumulation amount detection signal to the unit controller 10. When the amount of yarn Y wound on the yarn accumulating roller 11A reaches the upper limit, the yarn accumulating amount sensor 11C transmits an upper limit accumulation amount detection signal to the unit controller 10. The yarn accumulated amount sensor 11C may be composed of two sensors, namely, a lower limit accumulated amount detection sensor and an upper limit accumulated amount detection sensor, instead of a single sensor.

[0041] The yarn hooking member 11D is provided on the winding device 13 side (the distal end side) relative to the yarn accumulating roller 11A. It hooks the yarn Y and winds it around the yarn accumulating roller 11A. The yarn hooking member 11D is supported on the distal end side of the yarn accumulating roller 11A so as to be rotatable relative to the yarn accumulating roller 11A about the same axis. The distal end of the yarn hooking member 11D is curved so as to face the yarn accumulating portion 11Aa, thereby hooking the yarn Y.

[0042] The yarn separating member 11E separates the yarn Y from the yarn hooking member 11D and is positioned immediately downstream of the distal end of the yarn accumulating roller 11A. The yarn separating member 11E is supported so as to be pivotable between a lowered position and a raised position. The lowered position is retracted from the yarn path, while the raised position pushes the yarn Y on the yarn path upward, separating the yarn Y from the yarn hooking member 11D.

[0043] The residual yarn suction port 11F is formed at the top end of the residual yarn suction pipe 61B. The residual yarn suction pipe 61B is connected to the suction duct 41 via the suction and catching pipe 61A. As a result, the residual yarn suction port 11F can generate a suction air flow. The residual yarn suction pipe 61B extends from the base end portion, which is the connection portion (first connection portion 63) between the residual yarn suction pipe 61B and the suction and catching pipe 61A, to the top end portion where the residual yarn suction port 11F is formed. For example, when the yarn breaks, the thread ends (residual yarn) such as the yarn Y remaining on the yarn storage roller 11A are sucked and removed by the residual yarn suction port 11F. It should be noted that the "thread ends" mentioned here can also be a concept that includes flying flowers.

[0044] The first guide member 11J is disposed between the tension sensor 9 and the yarn accumulating roller 11A, and guides the yarn Y supplied from the tension sensor 9 toward the yarn accumulating portion 11Aa. The second guide member 11K is disposed between the yarn accumulating roller 11A and the winding device 13, and guides the yarn Y toward a predetermined position in the wax coating device 12. The second guide member 11K regulates the trajectory of the yarn Y, which is swung by the rotating yarn hooking member 11D, thereby stabilizing the travel of the yarn Y downstream of the second guide member 11K.

[0045] Back to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The wax coating device 12 coats the yarn Y with wax between the yarn storage device 11 and the winding device 13.

[0046] The suction and catching device 50 attracts and catches the yarn Y on the package P side when the yarn Y breaks. The suction and catching device 50 is positioned opposite the yarn path between the yarn accumulation device 11 and the winding device 13, more specifically, the yarn path between the wax coating device 12 and the winding device 13. The suction and catching device 50 is housed within the housing of the wax coating device 12. More specifically, the suction and catching device 50 can be said to be positioned between the wax of the wax coating device 12 and the winding device 13. It should be noted that while the suction and catching device 50 is described as being fixed in this embodiment, it can also be configured to be slightly movable. For example, the suction and catching device 50 can be configured to be slightly closer to or farther from the yarn path of the yarn Y. In other words, the suction and catching device 50 can be configured to be non-movable like the yarn suction port 28. When the yarn splicing cart 3 is operating the spinning unit 2, the suction and catching device 50 is located upstream of the yarn splicing device 35 included in the yarn splicing cart 3.

[0047] like Figure 2 、 Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, the suction and capture device 50 includes a suction and capture pipe 61A, a suction and capture port 51, a holding portion 70, and a cutter 85. The suction and capture pipe 61A extends from a base end portion 61Aa, which is a connection portion between the suction and capture pipe 61A and the suction line 41, to a top end portion 61Ab. Suction air flows from the top end portion 61Ab to the base end portion 61Aa. In the flow direction D of the suction air, the holding portion 70, the cutter 85, and the suction line 41 are arranged in this order at a position downstream of the suction and capture port 51. The suction and capture device 50 can also be constructed by unitizing the suction and capture pipe 61A, the suction and capture port 51, the holding portion 70, and the cutter 85. In this case, the entire suction and capture device 50 can be easily replaced.

[0048] exist Figure 2 The figure shows the suction and catching pipe 61A, the residual yarn suction pipe 61B, and the thread end suction pipe 61C. The actual configuration of the suction and catching pipe 61A, the residual yarn suction pipe 61B, and the thread end suction pipe 61C may not necessarily be the same as that shown in the figure. For example, a portion shown as a straight line may be configured as a curved line, and a portion shown as a curved line may be configured as a straight line. Furthermore, the components used as the suction and catching pipe 61A, the residual yarn suction pipe 61B, and the thread end suction pipe 61C may be constructed by appropriately combining straight lines, curved lines, and flexible lines.

[0049] The suction and catching opening 51 is formed at the tip 61Ab of the suction and catching pipe 61A. The suction and catching opening 51 opens so as to face the yarn path between the yarn accumulation device 11 and the winding device 13. A holding portion 70 holds the yarn Y sucked from the suction and catching opening 51 in a portion within the suction and catching pipe 61A. The holding portion 70 is configured to be able to advance and retract relative to a holding area A1, which is a portion within the suction and catching pipe 61A. This is achieved by a linear motion mechanism such as an air cylinder or a ball screw.

[0050] The holding portion 70 of this embodiment is driven by an air cylinder 71. The air cylinder 71 includes: a rod 71A forming a part of the holding portion 70; a housing 71B supporting the rod 71A in a slidable manner; and a connection port 71C for supplying and discharging compressed air relative to the housing 71B. It should be noted that the holding portion 70 can be formed as a part of the rod 71A, or can be formed at the top end of the rod 71A separately from the rod 71A. The rod 71A is configured to enter the holding area A1 by supplying compressed air to the housing 71B through the connection port 71C, and to exit the holding area A1 by discharging the compressed air from the housing 71B through the connection port 71C.

[0051] The holding area A1 of this embodiment includes a curved portion 65 formed between the base end 61Aa and the tip end 61Ab of the suction and catching pipe 61A. The curved portion 65 of the suction and catching pipe 61A also bends the flow path of the suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A. In other words, the curved portion 65 bends the yarn Y sucked from the suction and catching port 51 by causing it to come into contact with a portion of the interior of the suction and catching pipe 61A.

[0052] When the rod 71A enters the holding area A1, a portion of the rod 71A is located upstream of the curved portion 65 in the direction D of suction air flow. In this embodiment, a collar member 75 is disposed within the suction and capture pipe 61A upstream of the curved portion 65, narrowing the inner diameter of the suction and capture pipe 61A. The portion corresponding to the collar member 75 may also form a portion of the suction and capture pipe 61A. The inner circumferential surfaces of the suction and capture pipe 61A and the collar member 75 have a circular cross-section. The outer diameter of the collar member 75 is substantially identical to that of the rod 71A. The rod 71A is cylindrical. A tapered surface 71Ab is formed at the tip 71Aa of the rod 71A, which serves as the entrance side. In this embodiment, this tapered surface 71Ab forms the holding portion 70. Specifically, the tapered surface 71Ab of the rod 71A presses the yarn Y against the end surface of the collar member 75, thereby holding the yarn Y. When the rod 71A enters the holding area A1 and the tapered surface 71Ab comes into contact with the end surface of the collar member 75 , the tip portion 71Aa is aligned to the center of the collar member 75 .

[0053] In this embodiment, the rod 71A enters the holding area A1, and the conical surface 71Ab of the rod 71A contacts the end surface of the collar component 75, and the end surface of the collar component 75 is blocked. As a result, the flow of the suction air in the suction and capture piping 61A is cut off. That is, the rod 71A has the function of a gate that cuts off the flow of the suction air in the suction and capture piping 61A. The rod 71A switches the holding state of the yarn Y by moving linearly along the extension direction of the suction and capture piping 61A in the holding area A1 (see Figure 5B ) and the non-holding state where the yarn Y is not held (refer to Figure 5A ). In addition, the rod 71A switches to a shutoff state to shut off the flow of the suction air in the suction and capture pipe 61A (see Figure 5B ) and the non-blocking state where the flow of the suction air is not blocked (refer to Figure 5A ).

[0054] like Figure 5BAs shown, when the rod 71A enters the holding area A1 and enters the holding and interrupting state, the yarn Y is clamped between the end surface of the collar member 75 and the tapered surface 71Ab of the rod 71A. The yarn Y clamped (held) by the collar member 75 and the rod 71A is bent by contact with the end of the collar member 75. The yarn Y downstream of this bent portion is sucked toward the suction duct 41 by the suction air.

[0055] The cutter 85 is located downstream of the holding area A1 in the flow direction D of the suction air. More specifically, the cutter 85 is supported by the support portion 81. The cutter 85 is covered by the cover 83. The suction and capture pipe 61A is provided so as to pass through the support portion 81 and the cover 83. The cutter 85 cuts the yarn Y sucked from the suction and capture port 51. The cover 83 is formed of, for example, a transparent resin member. The operation timing of the cutter 85 is controlled to be the same as or later than the operation timing of the rod 71A. The operation timing of the cutter 85 and the rod 71A is controlled by the unit controller 10.

[0056] The yarn end suction pipe 61C has a tip portion formed with a yarn end suction port 20B and a base portion connected to the remaining yarn suction pipe 61B at a second connection portion 62. The remaining yarn suction pipe 61B has a tip portion formed with a remaining yarn suction port 11F and a base portion connected to the suction and catching pipe 61A at a first connection portion 63. The first connection portion 63 is located upstream of the holding area A1 in the flow direction D of the suction air. That is, the yarn end suction pipe 61C and the remaining yarn suction pipe 61B merge with the suction and catching pipe 61A at a position upstream of the position where the rod 71A holds the yarn Y in the flow direction D of the suction air.

[0057] The winding device 13 winds the yarn Y onto the bobbin B to form a package P. The winding device 13 includes a cradle arm 21, a winding drum 22, and a traverse guide 23. The cradle arm 21 rotatably supports the bobbin B. The cradle arm 21 is swingably supported by a support shaft 24. When the bobbin B (package P) is rotated in the winding direction (forward rotation), the cradle arm 21 brings the surface of the bobbin B or the package P into contact with the surface of the winding drum 22 with appropriate pressure. The drive motor provided in the second end frame 5 simultaneously drives the winding drums 22 of the multiple spinning units 2. As a result, the bobbin B or the package P is rotated in the winding direction in each spinning unit 2.

[0058] The traverse guide 23 of each spinning unit 2 is provided on a shaft shared by the multiple spinning units 2. The shaft is reciprocated in the direction of the rotation axis of the winding drum 22 by the drive motor of the second end frame 5, so that the traverse guide 23 traverses the yarn Y by a predetermined amplitude relative to the rotating bobbin B or package P.

[0059] When the yarn Y is cut or disconnected in one of the spinning units 2 for some reason, the yarn splicing trolley 3 performs the yarn splicing operation on the spinning unit 2. For example, a plurality of yarn splicing trolleys 3 are provided in the air spinning machine 1. The yarn splicing trolley 3 is provided to be movable relative to the plurality of spinning units 2 and to move along the arrangement direction of the spinning units 2 ( Figure 1 The yarn splicing carriage 3 can move to an operating position (a position for performing a yarn splicing operation) for each of the plurality of spinning units 2.

[0060] The yarn joining carriage 3 includes a yarn joining device 35 , a yarn suction nozzle 27 , a yarn suction port 28 , a reversing device 29 , and a carriage controller 32 .

[0061] When the yarn Y is disconnected between the air spinning device 7 and the winding device 13, Figure 2 The yarn splicing device 35 shown performs a yarn splicing operation to form a continuous yarn Y. The yarn splicing device 35 uses a yarn clamping portion (not shown) and a cutter to hold and cut the yarn Y captured by the yarn suction port 28. The yarn splicing device 35 uses a yarn clamping portion (not shown) to hold the yarn Y captured by the yarn suction nozzle 27, and uses the cutter to cut the yarn Y captured by the yarn suction nozzle 27.

[0062] The yarn splicing device 35 splices the yarn Y on the winding device 13 side after being cut and the yarn Y on the air spinning device 7 side after being cut. The yarn splicing device 35 is a splicer that uses compressed air or a knotter that mechanically connects the yarns Y to each other. Alternatively, the yarn splicing can be performed by a joint, which means that the yarn Y on the winding device 13 side is reversed to the air spinning device 7, and then the drafting based on the drafting device 6 and the spinning based on the air spinning device 7 are restarted, thereby making the yarn Y continuous between the air spinning device 7 and the winding device 13. In this embodiment, a splicer is used as an example for explanation. In this embodiment, the yarn splicing device 35 is capable of moving in a direction close to the path of the traveling yarn Y (in Figure 2 in the example to the left) or away from (in the example to the left) Figure 2 to the right in the example).

[0063] The yarn suction nozzle 27 is rotatably supported by a support shaft 27a. The yarn suction nozzle 27 captures the yarn Y on the side of the air spinning device 7 by suction and guides it to the yarn joining device 35. The suction air flow during suction in the yarn suction nozzle 27 is supplied from a suction duct not shown in the figure. The yarn suction nozzle 27 is set to be able to move to a standby position P11, a first yarn catching position P12 for capturing the yarn Y supplied from the air spinning device 7, and a first yarn guiding position P13 for guiding the yarn Y to the yarn joining device 35. The standby position P11 and the first yarn guiding position P13 can also be the same position. The movement (rotation) of the yarn suction nozzle 27 is controlled by the trolley controller 32.

[0064] The yarn suction port 28 is supported by a support shaft 28a in a rotatable manner. The yarn suction port 28 approaches the winding device 13 to capture the yarn Y on the winding device 13 side, and moves in a direction away from the winding device 13 to guide the captured yarn Y to the yarn joining device 35. The suction air flow in the yarn suction port 28 during suction is supplied from a suction duct not shown in the figure. The yarn suction port 28 is set to be able to move to a standby position P21, a second yarn catching position P22 for capturing the yarn Y from the winding device 13, and a second yarn guiding position P23 for guiding the yarn Y to the yarn joining device 35. The standby position P21 and the second yarn guiding position P23 can also be the same position. The movement (rotation) of the yarn suction port 28 is controlled by the trolley controller 32.

[0065] The reversing device 29 reverses the package P of the winding device 13. The reversing device 29 includes a support arm 30 and a reversing roller 31. One end of the support arm 30 is connected to a support shaft. Thus, the support arm 30 is configured to swing about the support shaft. The support arm 30 is moved by a drive unit (not shown), such as a motor, between a reversing position where the reversing roller 31 does not contact the package P and a contact position where the reversing roller 31 contacts the package P. The swinging of the support arm 30 is controlled by a carriage controller 32.

[0066] The reversing roller 31 is located at the other end of the support arm 30. The reversing roller 31 rotates (reverses) the package P in the unwinding direction, which is opposite to the winding direction. When the package P is rotated in the unwinding direction, the cradle arm 21 separates (lifts) the surface of the package P from the surface of the winding drum 22, and the yarn splicing carriage 3 brings the reversing roller 31 into contact with the surface of the package P. This allows the package P, which is in contact with the reversing roller 31, to rotate in the unwinding direction. The rotation of the reversing roller 31 is controlled by the carriage controller 32.

[0067] The carriage controller 32 comprehensively controls the operation of the yarn-spinning carriage 3. The carriage controller 32 includes an input / output interface for external signal input and output, a storage unit such as a ROM storing programs and information used for processing, a RAM for temporary data storage, a CPU, and a communication circuit. Based on signals output by the CPU, the carriage controller 32 stores input data into the RAM, loads programs stored in the ROM into the RAM, and executes various processes by executing the programs loaded into the RAM. The carriage controller 32 can communicate with the unit controller 10 and the machine controller 15.

[0068] The carriage controller 32 controls the yarn splicing operation performed by the yarn splicing carriage 3 and the movement of the yarn splicing carriage 3. The carriage controller 32 is connected to the unit controller 10. After the yarn monitoring device 8 of a spinning unit 2 detects a yarn defect, the unit controller 10 sends a yarn splicing request signal to the machine controller 15 at an appropriate timing. Upon receiving the yarn splicing request signal, the machine controller 15 sends a control signal to the carriage controller 32. This enables the yarn splicing carriage 3 to perform the yarn splicing operation on the spinning unit 2 that received the yarn splicing request signal.

[0069] When the package P in a certain spinning unit 2 becomes fully wound, the doffing cart doffs the package P and supplies a new bobbin B to the spinning unit 2 .

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, the cleaning device 49 is disposed opposite the main frame 2A and the yarn path of the yarn Y. The cleaning device 49 is movable along the arrangement direction of the plurality of spinning units 2. The cleaning device 49 includes a plurality of nozzles for blowing air. The cleaning device 49 blows air toward each of the plurality of spinning units 2, thereby removing any lint or fly fibers adhering to the spinning units 2.

[0071] The effects of the air spinning machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment will now be described. In the air spinning machine 1 equipped with the suction and catching device 50 according to the above-described embodiment, the yarn Y sucked from the suction and catching port 51 is held by the rod (holding portion) 71A within the suction and catching duct 61A. This stabilizes the state of the yarn Y from the suction and catching port 51 to the rod 71A. Furthermore, in the air spinning machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, if the yarn Y sucked into the suction duct 41 becomes entangled within the suction duct 41, the tension acting on the yarn Y may fluctuate. To address this issue, in the air spinning machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, the yarn Y sucked from the suction and catching port 51 is cut by a cutter 85 located downstream of the rod 71A within the suction and catching duct 61A. This prevents the behavior of the yarn Y, which has entered the suction duct 41 and is caused to swirl or become entangled within the suction duct 41, from propagating to the yarn Y outside the suction and catching port 51. As a result, when the yarn Y is sucked and caught, a stable catching state can be maintained.

[0072] In the air spinning machine 1 of the above embodiment, the rod 71A may function as a shutter for shutting off the flow of suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A. Thus, when the yarn Y is held, the flow of suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A is shut off, thereby reducing energy consumption in the blower 43.

[0073] In the air spinning machine 1 of the above embodiment, the rod 71A is movable relative to the holding area A1 in the suction and catching pipe 61A and enters the holding area A1 to hold the yarn Y. This allows both the function of holding the yarn Y and the function of a shutter to be achieved with a simple structure.

[0074] In the air spinning machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, the holding area A1 is formed to include the curved portion 65, and the rod 71A switches between a state of holding the yarn Y and a state of not holding the yarn Y by linear motion. Thus, by using linear motion to press the yarn Y bent by the curved portion 65, the yarn Y can be more reliably held, and the flow of suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A can be more reliably blocked.

[0075] In the air spinning machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, the tip 71Aa of the rod 71A is tapered. Consequently, when the tip 71Aa of the rod 71A enters the collar member 75 disposed within the suction and catching pipe 61A, the rod 71A is automatically aligned with the collar member 75. Consequently, errors in the yarn Y held by the rod 71A can be reduced.

[0076] In the air spinning machine 1 of the above-described embodiment, each of the suction pipes (the remaining yarn suction pipe 61B and the lint suction pipe 61C) leading to the plurality of suction ports (the remaining yarn suction port 11F and the lint suction port 20B) merges with the suction and catching pipe 61A at a position upstream of the position (holding area A1) where the rod 71A holds the yarn Y, in the direction of flow of the suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A. Thus, a single component (i.e., the rod 71A) can function as a gate for each of the suction pipes (the remaining yarn suction port 11F and the lint suction port 20B) leading to the plurality of suction ports (the remaining yarn suction port 11F and the lint suction port 20B).

[0077] In the air spinning machine 1 of the above embodiment, the timing of the operation of the cutter 85 is controlled to be the same as or later than the timing of the operation of the rod 71A. In this configuration, the yarn Y is cut while being held by the rod 71A, so that the yarn Y can be cut stably.

[0078] The air spinning machine 1 of the above-described embodiment is provided with a cover 83 that covers the cutter 85. This structure prevents fly waste from adhering to the cutter 85 without requiring a conventional waste removal device or the like to blow away fly waste. If fly waste adheres to the cutter 85, the cutting function is impaired. Conventionally, to prevent this impairment, a separate waste removal device or the like has been provided on the cutter 85.

[0079] Although one embodiment has been described above, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the following example is used for explanation: when the rod 71A of the air cylinder 71 enters the holding area A1 through linear motion, the yarn Y is held by clamping it between the rod 71A and the collar member 75, and the flow of suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A is blocked. However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the inner diameter of the suction and catching pipe 61A upstream of the holding area A1 may be formed to be substantially equal to the outer diameter of the rod 71A. Even in this case, when the rod 71A enters the holding area A1 through linear motion, the yarn Y is held by clamping it between the rod 71A and the suction and catching pipe 61A, and the flow of suction air in the suction and catching pipe 61A is blocked.

[0081] In the above embodiment and the above modification, the following example is cited for explanation: the suction and capture device 50 has a structure in which the rod 71A as a part of the holding portion 70 is set to be able to move forward and backward relative to the holding area A1 by a direct-acting mechanism such as a cylinder 71 or a ball screw. However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, Figure 6A As shown, the suction and capture pipe 61A connected to the suction duct 41 may be formed of a rubber member or the like, and the suction and capture pipe 61A may be pressed from the outside to be flattened. Thus, the inner circumferential surfaces of the suction and capture pipes 61A come into contact with each other, and the yarn Y in the suction and capture pipe 61A is held therebetween by the inner circumferential surfaces. This allows the yarn Y sucked from the suction and capture port 51 to be held in the suction and capture pipe 61A.

[0082] The pressing mechanism 92 that presses the suction and catching pipe 61A from the outside can be configured to include, for example, a pressing member (holding portion) 92A positioned to vertically clamp the suction and catching pipe 61A, and a pedestal 92B. For example, the pressing member 92A can be configured to be vertically movable using a direct-acting mechanism 91 comprising a ball screw 91A supported by a support member 91C and a drive portion 91B, such as a motor, that drives the ball screw 91A. Even this pressing mechanism 92 can retain the yarn Y sucked from the suction and catching pipe 61A within the suction and catching pipe 61A.

[0083] In addition, for example Figure 6B As shown, the suction and capture pipe 61A connected to the suction duct 41 may be formed of a rubber member or the like, and the suction and capture pipe 61A may be clamped from the outside to be flattened. Thus, the inner circumferential surfaces of the suction and capture pipe 61A are brought into contact with each other, and the yarn Y in the suction and capture pipe 61A is clamped by the inner circumferential surfaces, thereby retaining the yarn Y sucked from the suction and capture port 51 in the suction and capture pipe 61A.

[0084] The clamping mechanism 95 that clamps the suction and capture piping 61A from the outside can be constructed to include, for example: a support plate 95B formed with a through hole 95Ba that allows the suction and capture piping 61A to pass through in the extension direction; a rotating portion (holding portion) 95A that pushes the suction and capture piping 61A from the vertically downward direction to the vertically upward direction; and a driving portion 94. The rotating portion 95A is fixed in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the support plate 95B around the rotating axis. The rotating portion 95A is rotated by a driving portion 94 such as a motor. In the clamping mechanism 95 of this structure, by Figure 6B The rotating portion 95A is rotated counterclockwise, and the suction and catching pipe 61A is clamped by the upper edge of a portion of the through hole 95Ba and the rotating portion 95A. Even with such a clamping mechanism 95, the yarn Y sucked from the suction and catching pipe 61A can be held in the suction and catching pipe 61A.

[0085] In the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the yarn Y is retained within the suction and catching pipe 61A by moving the retaining portion 70 in the direction in which the suction and catching pipe 61A extends. However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the retaining portion 70 may retain the yarn Y within the suction and catching pipe 61A by moving in a direction perpendicular to the suction and catching pipe 61A. For example, a slit may be provided in the suction and catching pipe 61A, and a plate-shaped member serving as the retaining portion 70 may be inserted into the suction and catching pipe 61A through the slit. The plate-shaped member inserted into the suction and catching pipe 61A blocks the flow path for the suction air and presses the yarn Y against the inner circumferential surface of the suction and catching pipe 61A, thereby retaining the yarn Y.

[0086] In the above embodiment and the above modification, the holding portion 70 is described as having a shutter function. However, it is not necessary to have a shutter function. For example, the holding portion 70 may only have a function of holding the yarn Y in the suction and catching pipe 61A (e.g., a holding mechanism for holding the yarn Y).

[0087] In the above embodiment and the above modification, the example in which the holding area A1 is formed in the curved portion 65 is described. However, the holding area A1 may be formed in a straight section.

Claims

1. An air spinning machine, characterized in that: have: A plurality of spinning units (2), each of which comprises an air spinning device (7) for twisting a fiber bundle (F) using a swirling air flow to generate a yarn (Y), a winding device (13) for winding the yarn (Y) supplied from the air spinning device (7) to form a package (P), a yarn storage device (11) for storing the yarn (Y) between the air spinning device (7) and the winding device (13), and a suction and capture device (50), wherein the suction and capture device (50) is arranged between the yarn storage device (11) and the winding device (13) and attracts and captures the yarn (Y) on the package (P) side when the yarn (Y) is disconnected between the air spinning device (7) and the winding device (13); A suction pipeline (41), the suction pipeline (41) is connected to the plurality of suction and capture devices (50) respectively; and a blower (43) for causing the suction pipe (41) to generate a flow of suction air, The attraction and capture device (50) respectively comprises: a first suction pipe (61A) extending from a base end portion (61Aa) serving as a connection portion between the first suction pipe (61A) and the suction line (41) to a tip end portion (61Ab) for allowing the suction air to flow from the tip end portion (61Ab) to the base end portion (61Aa); a first suction port (51) formed at the top end portion (61Ab) of the first suction pipe (61A); a holding portion (70) for holding the yarn (Y) sucked from the first suction port (51) in the first suction pipe (61A); as well as a cutter (85) for cutting the yarn (Y) sucked from the first suction port (51) in the first suction pipe (61A); In the flow direction of the suction air, the holding portion (70), the cutter (85), and the base end portion (61Aa) are arranged in this order on the downstream side of the first suction port (51).

2. The air spinning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The holding portion (70) functions as a gate for shutting off the flow of the suction air in the first suction pipe (61A).

3. The air spinning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that The holding portion (70) is configured to be able to advance and retreat relative to a holding area (A1) inside the first suction pipe (61A), and holds the yarn (Y) by entering the holding area (A1).

4. The air spinning machine according to claim 3, characterized in that The first suction pipe (61A) has a bent portion (65). The holding area (A1) is formed to include the bent portion (65), The holding portion (70) switches between a state of holding the yarn (Y) and a state of not holding the yarn (Y) through linear motion.

5. The air spinning machine according to claim 4, characterized in that The cross-sectional shape of the inner peripheral surface of the first suction pipe (61A) is circular. The holding portion (70) has a cylindrical rod (71A) and a top portion (61Ab) formed into a tapered shape with a tapered tip, wherein the top portion (61Ab) is located on the entry side. When the holding portion (70) enters the holding area (A1), at least a portion of the rod (71A) enters the interior of the first suction pipe (61A) at a position upstream of the bent portion (65).

6. The air spinning machine according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that A second suction pipe (61C) having a second suction port (20B) disposed opposite to a portion of a yarn path of the yarn (Y) between the air spinning device (7) and the yarn storage device (11), The second suction pipe (61C) merges with the first suction pipe (61A) at a position upstream of a position where the holding portion (70) holds the yarn (Y) in the flow direction of the suction air of the first suction pipe (61A).

7. The air spinning machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that A control unit (10) is provided for controlling the operation of the cutter (85) so that the operation timing is the same as or later than the operation timing of the holding unit (70).

8. The air spinning machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein A cover (83) is provided to cover the cutter (85).

9. A suction and catching device used in a spinning unit (2), the spinning unit (2) comprising an air spinning device (7) for twisting a fiber bundle (F) using a swirling air flow to generate a yarn (Y), a winding device (13) for winding the yarn (Y) supplied from the air spinning device (7) to form a package (P), and a yarn accumulation device (11) for accumulating the yarn (Y) between the air spinning device (7) and the winding device (13), wherein the suction and catching device (50) is characterized in that it has: a first suction pipe (61A) extending from a base end portion (61Aa) serving as a connection portion between the first suction pipe (61A) and the suction line (41) to a tip end portion (61Ab), allowing the suction air to flow from the tip end portion (61Ab) to the base end portion (61Aa), and having a bent portion (65) formed at a portion thereof, wherein the suction line (41) is connected to a blower (43) for generating a flow of the suction air; a first suction port (51) formed at the top end portion (61Ab) of the first suction pipe (61A); a holding portion (70) for holding the yarn (Y) sucked from the first suction port (51) in the first suction pipe (61A); as well as a cutter (85) for cutting the yarn (Y) sucked from the first suction port (51) in the first suction pipe (61A); In the flow direction of the suction air, the holding portion (70), the cutter (85) and the base end portion (61Aa) are arranged in this order at a position downstream of the first suction port (51). The holding portion (70) is configured to be able to advance and retreat relative to a holding area (A1) formed in a manner including the curved portion (65) of the first suction pipe (61A), and to hold the yarn (Y) when entering the holding area (A1).

Images