Yarn winding system

Abstract

The invention provides a yarn winding system which can restrain the influence of cleaning operation of an automatic winder on the preparation state of a yarn winding bobbin. The automatic winder performs a winding process of winding a yarn unwound from a yarn winding bobbin; a bobbin processing device for performing preparation processing on the yarn-wound bobbin for winding processing; and a main control unit and a unit control unit. An automatic winder includes: a plurality of yarn winding units that perform a winding process; and a tray conveying device which conveys the trays to the yarn winding units, wherein the trays are provided with the yarn winding bobbins subjected to preparation processing in the bobbin processing device. The main control unit and the unit control unit start a yarn winding bobbin supply stop process (S12) for stopping the supply of a tray to which a yarn winding bobbin is attached from a bobbin processing device to a tray conveying device, and then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (S17: YES), the main control unit and the unit control unit are set to a sweeping state (S18) for stopping all yarn winding units and the tray conveying device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to yarn winding systems. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an automatic winding machine comprising: multiple winding units (hereinafter referred to as yarn winding units) that perform a winding process of unwinding yarn from a yarn bobbin to form a package; and a tray conveying device that conveys a tray containing the yarn bobbin to each yarn winding unit and retrieves a tray containing the processed yarn bobbin that has been wound in each yarn winding unit. The tray conveying device is configured to include, for example, a conveyor belt. The aforementioned automatic winding mechanism is supplied with a tray containing the yarn bobbin from a yarn bobbin processing device.

[0003] The yarn tube processing device performs a preparation process on the wound yarn tube for winding, bringing the wound yarn tube to a ready state. This preparation process includes a "starting-end" process, which involves inserting the yarn end of the wound yarn tube into the inside of the yarn tube body. By performing this starting-end process on the wound yarn tube, the yarn end of the wound yarn tube can be easily captured in the yarn winding unit, allowing for a smooth start to the yarn winding process in the yarn winding unit.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-131365 Summary of the Invention

[0007] In the aforementioned automatic winding machine, a cleaning operation is performed periodically. This cleaning operation is carried out with all yarn winding units and tray conveying devices stopped. During the cleaning operation, compressed air is blown onto the device to remove accumulated fly ash and other debris. At this time, because the compressed air is sprayed onto the winding tubes on the tray conveying device and the winding tubes introduced into the yarn winding unit, it sometimes affects the preparation state of the winding tubes. Specifically, the yarn end inserted into the tube body through the yarn end treatment falls to the outside of the tube body.

[0008] In such cases, when restarting the transport of yarn tubes based on the pallet conveyor after the cleaning operation is completed, problems may occur, such as the yarn ends hanging from the yarn tubes getting tangled in the rotating parts of the pallet conveyor (e.g., the pulleys of the conveyor belt). Additionally, it may be difficult to catch the yarn ends of the yarn tubes in the yarn winding unit.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide a yarn winding system that can suppress the impact of the cleaning operation of an automatic winding machine on the preparation state of the yarn bobbin.

[0010] The yarn winding system of the first embodiment includes: an automatic winding machine that performs a winding process of winding yarn from a yarn bobbin to form a package, wherein the yarn bobbin is a yarn bobbin with yarn wound around its body; a yarn bobbin processing device that performs a preparation process on the yarn bobbin for the winding process; and a control unit, wherein the automatic winding machine has: multiple yarn winding units that perform the winding process respectively; and a pallet conveying device that can convey a pallet to the yarn bobbin that has undergone the preparation process in the yarn bobbin processing device. The control unit is capable of performing the following processes: a yarn winding tube supply stop process, which stops the supply of the tray containing the yarn winding tube to the tray conveying device; and a operation stop process, which, after the yarn winding tube supply stop process has started, stops all the yarn winding units and the tray conveying device if predetermined operation stop conditions are met.

[0011] In this solution, if the yarn bobbin supply stop process is executed, the number of yarn bobbins on the pallet conveyor gradually decreases. Therefore, after the yarn bobbin supply stop process is initiated, and the operation stop conditions are met, the operation stop process stops all yarn winding units and the pallet conveyor. This reduces the number of yarn bobbins affected by cleaning operations such as air jetting when the operator subsequently performs cleaning operations on the automatic winding machine. Thus, the impact of the automatic winding machine's cleaning operations on the readiness state of the yarn bobbins can be suppressed.

[0012] Regarding the yarn winding system of the second embodiment, in the first invention, there is an input unit configured to input an indication signal, which instructs the execution of a yarn winding tube supply stop process, and the control unit executes the yarn winding tube supply stop process when the indication signal is input into the input unit.

[0013] In this solution, when the operator inputs an instruction signal by operating the input unit, the yarn tube supply can be stopped.

[0014] In the yarn winding system of the third scheme, in the second scheme, the operation stopping condition is that no more winding processing is performed in all the yarn winding units.

[0015] In this solution, if an instruction signal is input into the input unit to execute the yarn bobbin supply stop process, the number of yarn bobbins on the pallet conveyor decreases, and the supply of yarn bobbins to each yarn winding unit gradually ceases. In the yarn winding units where the yarn bobbin supply is interrupted, winding is no longer performed. Furthermore, if yarn bobbins are no longer supplied to all yarn winding units, winding is no longer performed in any of those units. Therefore, the operation stop process can be executed when the number of yarn bobbins on the pallet conveyor has sufficiently decreased, reliably suppressing any impact on the preparation status of the yarn bobbins during the cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine. Additionally, the operator only needs to input an instruction signal to execute the yarn bobbin supply stop process into the input unit, and the operation stop process will be executed automatically.

[0016] Regarding the yarn winding system of the fourth embodiment, in the first embodiment, there is a storage unit that stores the execution time of the operation stop process as the time to perform the operation stop process. The control unit starts the yarn tube supply stop process before the execution time of the operation stop process, and the operation stop condition is the arrival of the execution time of the operation stop process.

[0017] In this solution, by starting the yarn winding tube supply stop process before the execution time of the operation stop process stored in the storage unit, the number of yarn winding tubes on the pallet conveying device can be reduced before the operation stop process is executed. Therefore, the cleaning operation can be started at a predetermined time by executing the operation stop process.

[0018] Regarding the yarn winding system of Scheme 5, in any of Schemes 1 to 4, there is a notification unit that provides notification information. After the control unit starts the yarn winding tube supply stop processing, it causes the notification unit to notify the main information indicating that it is in preparation for cleaning operations.

[0019] This solution can notify the operator that the system is in preparation for cleaning operations.

[0020] In the yarn winding system of the sixth embodiment, in the fifth embodiment, the control unit causes the notification unit to notify the other unit of the main idea that cleaning operations can be performed when the operation stop processing is completed.

[0021] In this plan, the operator can be notified that cleaning operations can be carried out.

[0022] In the yarn winding system of the seventh embodiment, in any of the first to sixth embodiments, the control unit, during the yarn winding tube supply stop process, causes the tray without the yarn winding tube to be supplied from the yarn tube processing device to the tray conveying device.

[0023] Furthermore, "the tray without the yarn tube installed" refers to an empty tray without the yarn tube installed, or a tray with an empty yarn tube without unwound yarn or a very small amount of unwound yarn tube that cannot be used in the winding process of an automatic winding machine.

[0024] This solution reduces the number of yarn tubes on the pallet conveying device and prevents excessive accumulation of pallets in the yarn tube handling device.

[0025] Regarding the yarn winding system of the eighth embodiment, in the seventh embodiment, an RF tag is provided on the tray, and the tray conveying device has: a supply path, which is the path through which the tray is fed from the yarn tube processing device and is formed in a loop; and multiple individual paths, which branch off from the supply path and are individually provided corresponding to each of the multiple yarn winding units, each of the yarn winding units having an introduction selection mechanism, which can obtain an introduction prohibition state (prohibiting the introduction of the tray from the supply path to the individual path) and an introduction permission state (allowing the introduction of the tray from the supply path to the individual path); and a yarn tube information writing unit, which is configured to write yarn tube information into the RF tag, the yarn tube information indicating whether the winding yarn is installed in the tray with the RF tag. The control unit divides the plurality of yarn winding units into non-introduction units that do not introduce the trays without the yarn winding tubes installed into the separate path, and introduction units that introduce the trays without the yarn winding tubes installed into the separate path. Regarding the non-introduction units, when the yarn winding information read by the yarn winding information unit indicates that the trays without the yarn winding tubes installed are being transported, the introduction selection mechanism is set to the introduction prohibition state. Regarding the introduction units, when the yarn winding information read by the yarn winding information unit indicates that the trays without the yarn winding tubes installed are being transported, the introduction selection mechanism is set to the introduction allow state.

[0026] After the yarn bobbin supply stoppage process begins, the supply path becomes a mixture of trays with yarn bobbins installed that were supplied before the stoppage and trays without yarn bobbins installed that were supplied after the stoppage. In this solution, the control unit can monitor the installation status of the yarn bobbins on the trays being transported along the supply path based on the yarn bobbin information read by the yarn bobbin information reading unit. Furthermore, the control unit can manage separate yarn winding units that do not introduce trays without yarn bobbins into separate paths and those that do introduce trays without yarn bobbins into separate paths.

[0027] In the yarn winding system of the ninth embodiment, in the eighth embodiment, after the control unit starts the yarn tube supply stop process, when a tray indicating that the yarn tube information read by the yarn tube information reading unit indicates that the yarn tube is not installed is brought in for all of the plurality of yarn winding units, the introduction selection mechanism is set to the introduction prohibition state until a predetermined introduction condition is met. When the introduction condition is met, the plurality of yarn winding units are divided into non-introduction units and introduction units for control.

[0028] In this scheme, after the yarn bobbin supply stop process begins, only trays equipped with yarn bobbins are introduced into a separate path until the introduction conditions are met. Trays without yarn bobbins are not introduced into any separate paths of the yarn winding units but circulate along the supply path. Therefore, trays without yarn bobbins can be efficiently concentrated along the supply path. Furthermore, when the introduction conditions are met, in a portion of the yarn winding units, trays without yarn bobbins are introduced into a separate path. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the supply path from becoming crowded with trays without yarn bobbins.

[0029] In the yarn winding system of the 10th scheme, in the 9th scheme, the introduction condition is that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the yarn winding tube supply stop process.

[0030] After the yarn winding tube supply stop process begins, the number of trays without yarn winding tubes installed in the supply path increases over time. In this solution, when the number of trays without yarn winding tubes installed in the supply path increases to a certain extent after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the yarn winding tube supply stop process, it is possible to begin introducing trays without yarn winding tubes installed into a separate path in a portion of the yarn winding units.

[0031] In the yarn winding system of the 11th embodiment, in the 9th embodiment, the introduction condition is that, in the supply path, the number of trays containing information indicating that the yarn winding tubes are installed, as read by the yarn tube information reading unit, is less than a predetermined number.

[0032] In this scheme, when the number of trays with yarn-winding tubes installed on the supply path becomes sufficiently small, it is possible to start introducing trays without yarn-winding tubes onto a separate path in a portion of the yarn winding units. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of a yarn winding system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a diagram used to illustrate the types of yarn feed tubes. (a) shows an empty yarn tube, (b) shows a fully rolled yarn tube, (c) shows a half-rolled yarn tube, and (d) shows a yarn tube with very little residual yarn.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a top view of the yarn tube processing device and its vicinity.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the yarn tube in a ready-to-wrap state.

[0037] Figure 5 This is the front view of the yarn winding unit.

[0038] Figure 6 It is a block diagram representing the electrical structure of a yarn winding system.

[0039] Figure 7 (a) and (b) are top views of the individual paths and their vicinity.

[0040] Figure 8 (a) and (b) are top views of the individual paths and their vicinity.

[0041] Figure 9 (a) and (b) are top views of the individual paths and their vicinity.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a general processing sequence performed by the unit control unit.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing sequence performed by the main control unit.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a top view of the yarn tube processing device and its vicinity in the first modified example.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural diagram of the yarn winding system of the second variation.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a top view of the yarn tube processing device and its vicinity in the second modified example.

[0047] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0048] 1. Yarn winding system

[0049] 2 Automatic winding machine

[0050] 3. Yarn tube processing device

[0051] 4a Main Control Unit (Control Unit)

[0052] 4a1 Storage Unit

[0053] 4b1 Input Section

[0054] 4C Tower Light (Publicity Department)

[0055] 5 yarn winding units

[0056] Unit 5a Control Section (Control Section)

[0057] 6-pallet conveyor

[0058] 30 supply paths

[0059] 34 separate paths

[0060] 36 Reader (Yarn Tube Information Reading Unit)

[0061] 71. First guide element (introducing selection mechanism)

[0062] 82 Writer (Yarn Tube Information Writing Unit)

[0063] P roll

[0064] S0 yarn tube body

[0065] Sa winding yarn tube

[0066] TaRF tag

[0067] U-processed yarn tube

[0068] Y yarn Detailed Implementation

[0069] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. For ease of explanation, the direction parallel to the vertical direction of gravity ( Figure 1 The vertical direction of the paper is set as the up and down direction. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the direction in which the multiple yarn winding units 5, described later, are arranged is defined as the left-right direction. The left-right direction is orthogonal to the up-down direction. The direction orthogonal to both the up-down and left-right directions is defined as the front-back direction. The direction in which the tray T, described later, is moved is defined as the moving direction. Figure 1 The diagram shows arrows indicating the direction of transport. Pallet T is transported from the starting point of the arrow towards the ending point.

[0070] <Brief Structure of Yarn Winding System>

[0071] like Figure 1 As shown, the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment includes an automatic winding machine 2, a yarn tube handling device 3, and a control box 4. In the yarn winding system 1, the yarn feeding tube S is configured to move while mounted on a tray T. The automatic winding machine 2 winds the yarn from the winding tube Sa (described later). Figure 2 (b) and (c)) unwound yarn Y (refer to Figure 5 To form a roll P (refer to) Figure 5 The winding process of the yarn tube. The yarn tube processing device 3 performs a preparatory process on the wound yarn tube Sa, which will be described in detail later, in order to realize the winding process carried out in the automatic winding machine 2.

[0072] Here, while referring to Figure 2 (b) and (c) will explain the winding yarn tube Sa. The winding yarn tube Sa refers to a yarn tube on which a predetermined amount or more of yarn Y is wound, and which can be used in the winding process of the automatic winding machine 2. As an example of the winding yarn tube Sa, there are examples such as... Figure 2 As shown in (b), a fully wound yarn tube with a specified amount of yarn Y wound on the yarn tube body S0, and as shown in (b), Figure 2 As shown in (c), a half-roll yarn tube is formed by unwinding a portion of the yarn Y from a fully rolled yarn tube.

[0073] In the following explanation, it will be as follows Figure 2 As shown in (a), the yarn tube S0 without yarn Y wrapped around it is called an empty yarn tube Se. Additionally, as shown in... Figure 2 As shown in (d), a yarn tube with a very small amount of yarn Y wound around the yarn tube body S0, which cannot be used in the winding process of the automatic winding machine 2, is called a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb. Furthermore, there are cases where a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sa, an empty yarn tube Se, and a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb are not distinguished and are simply called a yarn feeding tube S. For example... Figure 2 (a)~ Figure 2 As shown in (d), the yarn feed tube S is supported on the tray T in a generally upright position. Furthermore, as... Figure 2 As shown in (a), the tray T is formed as a hollow shape.

[0074] like Figure 1As shown, the automatic winding machine 2 includes multiple yarn winding units 5 and a tray conveying device 6. The multiple yarn winding units 5 are arranged in a left-right direction. Each of the multiple yarn winding units 5 is configured to perform the winding process described above. The tray conveying device 6 is configured to convey trays T. The tray conveying device 6 conveys trays T containing yarn bobbins Sa that have undergone the aforementioned preparatory treatment in the yarn bobbin processing device 3 to each yarn winding unit 5. The tray conveying device 6 also conveys trays T containing processed yarn bobbins U that have undergone the aforementioned winding treatment in each yarn winding unit 5 to the yarn bobbin processing device 3.

[0075] The yarn bobbin processing device 3 is located on the right side of the automatic winding machine 2. In this embodiment, a known spinning machine 100 (see reference 100) for spinning yarn Y is used. Figure 3 The yarn tube Sa is supplied to the yarn tube processing device 3 in a state where it is mounted on the tray T. The spinning machine 100 is, for example, located on the right side of the yarn tube processing device 3.

[0076] The control box 4 is located on the left side of the automatic winding machine 2. The control box 4 includes a main control unit 4a, an operation panel 4b, and a tower light 4c.

[0077] The main control unit 4a is housed inside the control box 4. The main control unit 4a provides overall control of the yarn winding system 1. The main control unit 4a is electrically connected to each component of the yarn winding system 1 (see reference). Figure 6 The main control unit 4a has a storage unit 4a1 for storing settings related to the yarn winding system 1 (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0078] An operation panel 4b is located on the front surface of the control box 4. The operation panel 4b is configured to allow the operator to input various instructions related to the yarn winding system 1. Examples of operator-input instructions include various conditions such as the winding process performed by the yarn winding unit 5, work changes, and a schedule for the cleaning of the automatic winding machine 2. Furthermore, the operation panel 4b includes an input section 4b1 configured to input instruction signals related to the preparation of the cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine 2. In this embodiment, the input section 4b1 is a button. The input section 4b1 could also be a joystick or a touch panel. Moreover, the operation panel 4b has a display section for displaying information related to the yarn winding system 1 to inform the operator. The display section is, for example, a known display device. The display section displays, for example, the operating status of multiple yarn winding units 5.

[0079] Tower lamp 4c is, for example, located at the upper end of control box 4. Tower lamp 4c has, for example, multiple types of lamps. Tower lamp 4c illuminates or flashes each lamp according to the instructions of main control unit 4a. Tower lamp 4c functions as a notification unit to inform the operator of information through its illumination status (on, flashing, off). Tower lamp 4c is, for example, illuminated during normal operation.

[0080] <Yarn tube processing device>

[0081] Next, while further referring to Figure 3 The structure of the yarn tube handling device 3 will be explained below. The yarn tube handling device 3 has a conveying path 51 for transporting the pallet T. The pallet T is transported in the conveying path 51 using a conveyor device 56 (see reference) consisting of a conveyor belt or the like. Figure 6 The conveying path 51 includes a supply path 52, a recovery path 53, a return bypass 54, and a transport bypass 55.

[0082] Supply path 52 is the path through which the tray T from the spinning machine 100 is transported. Additionally, supply path 52 is the path through which the tray T is transported to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2. For example, the right end of supply path 52 is connected to the spinning machine 100, and the left end of supply path 52 is connected to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2.

[0083] The recovery path 53 is the path along which the pallet T from the pallet conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2 is transported. Additionally, the recovery path 53 is the path that returns the pallet T to the spinning machine 100. For example, the right end of the recovery path 53 connects to the spinning machine 100, and the left end of the recovery path 53 connects to the pallet conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2. The recovery path 53 is located in front of the supply path 52 in the front-to-back direction.

[0084] Both the return bypass 54 and the transport bypass 55 connect the supply path 52 and the recovery path 53. In the supply path 52, the connection portion of the transport bypass 55 is located upstream (to the right) in the transport direction compared to the connection portion of the return bypass 54. Conversely, in the recovery path 53, the connection portion of the transport bypass 55 is located downstream (to the right) in the transport direction compared to the connection portion of the return bypass 54.

[0085] A residual yarn detection device 61 is provided in the recycling path 53. The residual yarn detection device 61 is, for example, provided between the connection part of the return bypass 54 and the connection part of the conveying bypass 55 in the recycling path 53.

[0086] The residual yarn detection device 61 detects the rotational position of a residual yarn brush (not shown) that rotates along the outer peripheral surface of the yarn feeding tube S, and detects the yarn Y wound around the tube body S0 from the detected rotational position. That is, the residual yarn detection device 61 attempts to rotate the residual yarn brush along the outer peripheral surface of the yarn feeding tube S from the top to the bottom. If the residual yarn brush does not hook onto the outer peripheral surface of the yarn feeding tube S, it determines that the yarn feeding tube S is not wound with yarn Y, i.e., it is an empty yarn tube Se. On the other hand, if the residual yarn brush hooks onto the outer peripheral surface of the yarn feeding tube S, the residual yarn detection device 61 determines that the yarn feeding tube S is wound with yarn Y, i.e., it is a wound yarn tube Sa or a yarn tube Sb with very little residual yarn.

[0087] At the connection point of the conveyor bypass 55 in the recycling path 53, a switching device 62 is provided to switch the destination of the tray T being transported in the recycling path 53. The switching device 62 is controlled by the main control unit 4a. During normal operation, the switching device 62 directly conveys the tray T with the feed tube S, which is determined by the yarn residue detection device 61 to be an empty yarn tube Se, to the downstream side of the recycling path 53. Thus, the tray T with the empty yarn tube Se is returned to the spinning machine 100. The switching device 62 conveys the tray T with the feed tube S, which is determined by the yarn residue detection device 61 to be not an empty yarn tube Se, to the conveyor bypass 55.

[0088] On the conveying bypass 55, starting from the upstream side in the conveying direction, a yarn quantity detection device 63, a residual yarn detection device 64, and a residual yarn removal device 65 are arranged sequentially. The yarn quantity detection device 63 detects the rotation position of an arm (not shown) that rotates by contacting the conveyed yarn feed tube S, and determines whether the yarn feed tube S is a wound yarn tube Sa with a predetermined amount or more of yarn Y wound on it. If the yarn quantity detection device 63 does not detect that it is a wound yarn tube Sa, it can be determined that it is an empty yarn tube Se or a yarn tube Sb with very little residual yarn. The residual yarn detection device 64 has the same structure as the residual yarn detection device 61 and detects the yarn Y wound on the yarn tube body S0.

[0089] The yarn feed tube S, which is conveyed to the tray T on the conveyor bypass 55, is detected by the yarn quantity detection device 63 to determine whether it is a wrapped yarn tube Sa. Furthermore, the yarn feed tube S, which is determined to be an empty yarn tube Se or a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb based on the detection result of the yarn quantity detection device 63, is detected by the residual yarn detection device 64 for the amount of yarn Y. The yarn feed tube S in which the residual yarn detection device 64 detects yarn Y can be determined to be a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb. The residual yarn removal device 65 is configured to remove the remaining yarn Y on the yarn feed tube S that is determined to be a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb based on the detection result of the residual yarn detection device 64.

[0090] Between the connecting portion of the conveying bypass 55 and the connecting portion of the return bypass 54 in the supply path 52, a yarn quantity detection device 66 and a preparation processing device 67 are sequentially arranged from the upstream side in the conveying direction. The yarn quantity detection device 66 has the same structure as the yarn quantity detection device 63 and detects whether it is a wound yarn tube Sa. The preparation processing device 67 performs preparation processing on the wound yarn tube Sa for the winding process in the automatic winding machine 2. Figure 4 The diagram shows a yarn tube Sa that has undergone preparation processing and is now in a ready state. The preparation processing includes a lead-out process that pulls out the yarn end Ye from the yarn tube Sa, and a head-raising process that inserts the yarn end Ye pulled out in the lead-out process into the yarn tube body S0. The preparation processing device 67 is equipped with sensors capable of acquiring information about whether the preparation processing was successful.

[0091] return Figure 3 At the connection point of the return bypass 54 in the supply path 52, a switching device 68 is provided to switch the destination of the pallet T being transported in the supply path 52. The switching device 68 is controlled by the main control unit 4a. During normal operation, the switching device 68 directly transports the pallet T with the wound yarn tube Sa that has been prepared by the preparation processing device 67 to the downstream side of the supply path 52. Thus, the pallet T with the wound yarn tube Sa is transported to the pallet transport device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2. The switching device 68 transports the pallet T with the wound yarn tube Sa that was not successfully prepared by the preparation processing device 67, and the pallet T with the empty yarn tube Se that has had the yarn Y removed by the residual yarn removal device 65, to the return bypass 54.

[0092] Here, the processing in the bobbin processing device 3 during normal operation will be described. A tray T containing wound bobbins Sa is conveyed from the spinning machine 100 to the supply path 52. The wound bobbins Sa, conveyed in the supply path 52, are prepared in the preparation processing device 67 and then conveyed to the automatic winding machine 2. The processed bobbins U, which have undergone winding in the automatic winding machine 2, are conveyed to the return path 53 of the bobbin processing device 3. The processed bobbins U also include bobbins with remaining yarn Y. That is, the processed bobbins U are one of wound bobbins Sa, bobbins with very little remaining yarn Sb, and empty bobbins Se.

[0093] The empty yarn tubes Se in the feed yarn tubes S conveyed in the recovery path 53 are transported to the spinning machine 100. The wound yarn tubes Sa and the few remaining yarn tubes Sb in the feed yarn tubes S conveyed in the recovery path 53 are transported to the conveying bypass 55. The few remaining yarn tubes Sb in the feed yarn tubes S conveyed in the conveying bypass 55 have their yarn Y removed by the yarn removal device 65, becoming empty yarn tubes Se. The wound yarn tubes Sa conveyed from the conveying bypass 55 to the supply path 52 are prepared in the preparation treatment device 67 and then transported again to the automatic winding machine 2. The empty yarn tubes Se conveyed from the conveying bypass 55 to the supply path 52 are transported to the recovery path 53 via the return bypass 54 and then to the spinning machine 100.

[0094] <Pallet Transfer Device>

[0095] Next, the structure of the pallet conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2 will be described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the pallet conveying device 6 has a supply path 30, a return path 33, and multiple individual paths 34 as the path for conveying pallets T. Each of the multiple individual paths 34 is individually provided corresponding to a multiple yarn winding unit 5. Each path is formed, for example, by a plate-shaped cover member (reference numerals omitted). The conveying of pallets T in the supply path 30 and the return path 33 is carried out using a conveyor device 39 (see reference numerals) consisting of a conveyor belt or the like. Figure 6 Furthermore, the transport of the trays T in each individual path 34 is carried out by the yarn feeding section 8 (see below) located in each yarn winding unit 5, as described later. Figure 7 (a), (b), etc.) are carried out.

[0096] The supply path 30 is used to supply trays T to each yarn winding unit 5. Trays T from the yarn bobbin handling device 3 are fed into the supply path 30. The supply path 30 is shared by multiple yarn winding units 5. The supply path 30 includes a first section 31 and a second section 32.

[0097] The first part 31 is located behind the plurality of yarn winding units 5. The second part 32 is disposed between the first part 31 and the plurality of yarn winding units 5 in the front-back direction. Both the first part 31 and the second part 32 extend throughout the area where the plurality of yarn winding units 5 are disposed in the left-right direction. The first part 31 extends in a generally straight line. The two ends of the second part 32 are connected to the first part 31. More specifically, the left end of the second part 32 is connected to the left end of the first part 31. In addition, the right end of the second part 32 is connected to the middle part in the left-right direction of the first part 31. That is, the supply path 30 is formed in a loop.

[0098] The recovery path 33 is used to recover the tray T from each yarn winding unit 5. The recovery path 33 is provided in a shared manner for multiple yarn winding units 5. The recovery path 33 is disposed on the front side of multiple yarn winding units 5. The recovery path 33 extends in the left-right direction over the area where multiple yarn winding units 5 are disposed.

[0099] Multiple individual paths 34 are arranged in the front-to-back direction between the second portion 32 of the supply path 30 and the recycling path 33. The multiple individual paths 34 are arranged in the left-to-right direction. Each individual path 34 extends in the front-to-back direction, for example, while bending midway. The rear end of each individual path 34 connects to the second portion 32 of the supply path 30. That is, each individual path 34 branches off from the second portion 32 of the supply path 30. Furthermore, the front end of each individual path 34 connects to the recycling path 33.

[0100] like Figure 1 As shown, each individual path 34 has an inlet path 34a and an outlet path 34b. The inlet path 34a is the portion of the individual path 34 that is behind the unwinding position. The unwinding position is the location on the individual path 34 where the tray T, which supports the feed tube S of the unwound yarn Y in the yarn winding unit 5, is located. The inlet path 34a is connected to the second portion 32 of the supply path 30. The outlet path 34b is the portion of the individual path 34 that is in front of the unwinding position. The outlet path 34b is connected to the recovery path 33.

[0101] In this embodiment, each inlet path 34a is configured to allow the tray T to be positioned at the inlet 34a1 (see reference). Figure 7 (b) of), storage location (refer to) Figure 8 (a) and unwinding position (refer to) Figure 8 (b) Furthermore, the inlet 34a1, storage location, and unwinding location are arranged in this order along the conveying direction. That is, each inlet path 34a can accommodate up to three pallets T. However, the maximum number of pallets T that can be located in each inlet path 34a is not limited to this.

[0102] The tray T, equipped with the yarn tube Sa supplied from the yarn tube handling device 3, is first transported from right to left in the first section 31 of the supply path 30. Then, it is transported from left to right in the second section 32 of the supply path 30. Furthermore, as described later, each individual path 34 can be configured to either prohibit the introduction of the tray T from the supply path 30 into the individual path 34 or permit the introduction of the tray T from the supply path 30 into the individual path 34. The tray T transported in the second section 32 of the supply path 30 passes through a branch of the individual path 34 in the prohibition state and enters the individual path 34 in the permitt state. The tray T that has not been introduced into any individual path 34 but has been transported to the right end of the second section 32 of the supply path 30 returns to the first section 31 of the supply path 30.

[0103] The tray T containing the processed yarn bobbins U, which have been wound in each yarn winding unit 5, is discharged from the separate path 34 corresponding to that yarn winding unit 5 to the recycling path 33. The tray T discharged from the separate path 34 is transported from left to right in the recycling path 33 and returned to the yarn bobbin processing device 3.

[0104] <Structure of the yarn winding unit>

[0105] Next, while referring to Figure 5 The general structure of the yarn winding unit 5 will be described below. The yarn winding unit 5 includes, for example, a frame 7, a yarn feeding section 8, a blow-out nozzle 9, an unwinding aid 10, a yarn detection sensor 11, a yarn receiving device 12, a yarn cleaner 13, a lower yarn capturing guide device 14, an upper yarn capturing guide device 15, a rocker arm 16, a traverse drum 17, and an operation panel 18. Furthermore, a blower 20 (see reference) serves as a negative pressure source for generating suction flow in the holding sections 14b and 15b of the lower yarn capturing guide device 14 and the upper yarn capturing guide device 15 (described later). Figure 6 It is set up in a shared manner for multiple yarn winding units 5.

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown, the frame 7 is, for example, a hollow component extending in the vertical direction. The position of the frame 7 is fixed. The frame 7 supports various devices of the yarn winding unit 5. An operation panel 18 is provided on the front surface of the frame 7. The operation panel 18 is configured to allow the operator to input various instructions related to the yarn winding unit 5. The operation panel 18 has a display section for displaying information related to the yarn winding unit 5 to inform the operator. The display section is, for example, a known display device. A unit control unit 5a is disposed within the frame 7.

[0107] The yarn feeding section 8 is located at the lower part of the yarn winding unit 5. The yarn feeding section 8 is configured to support the tray T at the unwinding position in the separate path 34 corresponding to the yarn winding unit 5. Details about the yarn feeding section 8 will be described later.

[0108] The blow-out nozzle 9 is located below the unwinding position in the individual path 34. The blow-out nozzle 9 is configured to eject compressed air upwards. This is achieved using the nozzle drive unit 9a (see reference). Figure 6 Switching between the presence and absence of compressed air from the blow-out nozzle 9. With the tray T supported by the yarn feeding section 8 in the unwinding position, compressed air is ejected from the blow-out nozzle 9, thereby generating an upward-flowing airflow inside the hollow tray T and the yarn feeding tube S mounted on the tray T. Thus, when the winding tube Sa is mounted on the tray T, the yarn end Ye (referring to...) of the winding tube Sa, which is inserted into the tube body S0 during preparation processing... Figure 4 It was blown up.

[0109] The unwinding assist device 10 assists in the unwinding of yarn Y by causing the movable part 27 to swing relative to the yarn Y being unwound from the yarn feed tube S, thereby contacting an air ring formed on the upper part of the yarn feed tube S and appropriately controlling the size of the air ring. The movable part 27 is integrally formed with the lifting part 28. The lifting part 28 is configured to be able to lift via, for example, a threaded feed mechanism or a lifting mechanism 28a (see reference). Figure 6 It moves in the up and down direction.

[0110] The lifting component 28 is equipped with a yarn tube detection sensor 29 for detecting the yarn feed tube S. The yarn tube detection sensor 29 is configured as a transmissive photoelectric sensor having a light-emitting part 29a and a light-receiving part 29b. The light-emitting part 29a and the light-receiving part 29b are positioned at the unwinding position, separated by a separate path 34. Thus, the yarn tube detection sensor 29 can detect the yarn feed tube S mounted on the tray T supported by the yarn feed component 8 in the unwinding position.

[0111] The lifting member 28 is activated based on the detection result of the yarn tube detection sensor 29, thereby enabling the position adjustment of the movable member 27 during the winding process. Specifically, the tapered section Sc of the yarn feed tube S is detected by the yarn tube detection sensor 29. Furthermore, the tapered section Sc refers to the yarn layer end of the yarn feed tube S. The position of the movable member 27 is adjusted such that the distance from the tapered section Sc to the movable member 27 is a predetermined distance. Therefore, as the position of the tapered section Sc gradually decreases during the winding process, the lifting member 28 is lowered, keeping the distance between the tapered section Sc and the movable member 27 constant. As a result, the air pocket of the yarn Y unwound from the yarn feed tube S can be appropriately limited.

[0112] Furthermore, the yarn tube detection sensor 29 can detect the presence of a yarn tube S at the unwinding position (where a yarn tube is present) and the absence of a yarn tube S at the unwinding position (where a yarn tube is absent). Therefore, based on the detection results of the yarn tube detection sensor 29, it is possible to determine whether a yarn tube S is present at the unwinding position.

[0113] The yarn detection sensor 11 is positioned above the unwinding aid 10. The yarn detection sensor 11 is capable of detecting yarn Y on the yarn path of the yarn Y being unwound from the yarn feed tube S.

[0114] The yarn splicing device 12 is a device that splices the ends of the broken yarn Y together when the yarn Y breaks between the yarn feed tube S and the package P. The yarn clearer 13 is a device that obtains information related to the quality of the yarn Y and cuts the yarn Y as needed.

[0115] The yarn capture and guide device 14 mainly includes an arm 14a, a holding part 14b, and an arm drive motor 14c (see reference). Figure 6 Arm 14a is tubular, with one end supported by frame 7. Arm 14a is configured to rotate about a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction. Holding part 14b is provided at the other end of arm 14a. Holding part 14b attracts yarn Y using the suction flow generated in holding part 14b, and holds the attracted yarn Y using a holding member (not shown), thereby capturing yarn Y. Arm drive motor 14c drives arm 14a to rotate. Lower yarn capturing guide device 14 can capture the yarn (lower yarn Y1) on the feed tube S side of the broken yarn Y using holding part 14b. Lower yarn capturing guide device 14 guides the captured yarn (lower yarn Y1) on the feed tube S side to yarn receiving device 12 by driving arm 14a to rotate using arm drive motor 14c.

[0116] The yarn capture and guide device 15 mainly includes an arm 15a, a holding part 15b, and an arm drive motor 15c (see reference). Figure 6 Arm 15a is tubular, with one end supported by frame 7. Arm 15a is configured to rotate about a rotation axis extending in the left-right direction. Holding part 15b is provided at the other end of arm 15a. Arm drive motor 15c drives arm 15a to rotate. Upper yarn capture and guide device 15 can capture the yarn (upper yarn Y2) on the package P side of the broken yarn Y using the suction flow generated in holding part 15b. Upper yarn capture and guide device 15 guides the captured package P side yarn (upper yarn Y2) to yarn splicing device 12 by rotating arm 15a using arm drive motor 15c.

[0117] The cradle 16 rotatably supports the winding tube B used for winding the yarn Y. The winding tube B is positioned near the uppermost part of the yarn winding unit 5. A package P is formed by winding a predetermined amount of yarn Y onto the winding tube B.

[0118] The traverse drum 17 contacts the package P, causing the package P to rotate passively. The traverse drum 17 has a traverse groove 17a that allows yarn Y to pass through and traverse the yarn Y. The traverse drum 17 is powered by a winding motor 17b (see reference). Figure 6 Rotation drive. With the outer circumferential surface of the winding tube B or the surface of the package P in contact with the traverse drum 17, the traverse drum 17 is rotated. As a result, the yarn Y unwound from the feed tube S is wound onto the winding tube B while traversing.

[0119] Next, while further referring to Figures 7-9 The yarn feeding section 8 will be described in more detail below. The yarn feeding section 8 introduces the tray T from the second part 32 of the supply path 30 into a separate path 34 corresponding to it. Furthermore, the unwinding position support of the yarn feeding section 8 in the separate path 34 is introduced onto the tray T in the separate path 34. Further, the yarn feeding section 8 discharges the tray T, on which the processed yarn tube U, which has been wound by the yarn winding unit 5 in the unwinding position, from the separate path 34 to the recovery path 33.

[0120] like Figure 7 As shown in (a), the yarn feeding section 8 has a first guide 71 (the introduction selection mechanism of the present invention), a second guide 72, a tray detection sensor 73, and a tray pressing part 74. These components constituting the yarn feeding section 8 are arranged near the separate path 34 corresponding to the yarn feeding section 8.

[0121] The first guide component 71 can obtain an introduction prohibition state (see reference). Figure 7 (a) and the introduction of permitted states (see reference) Figure 7 (b) When the first guide 71 is in the introduction-prohibited state, it prohibits the introduction of tray T from the supply path 30 to the separate path 34. When the first guide 71 is in the introduction-allowed state, it allows the introduction of tray T from the supply path 30 to the import path 34a of the separate path 34, enabling the tray T to enter the import port 34a1 of the import path 34a. Furthermore, the import port 34a1 of the import path 34a is the end (rear end) of the import path 34a that connects to the supply path 30.

[0122] The first guide 71 is a generally circular plate-shaped component. The first guide 71 is disposed near the connection portion with the supply path 30 in the inlet path 34a. The first guide 71 is mounted in a manner that allows it to rotate about a first rotation axis 71a extending in the vertical direction. A notch 71b is formed in a portion of the circumference of the first guide 71. The shape of the first guide 71 is not limited to the shape described above. For example, the number of notches 71b can be two or more. The basic shape of the first guide 71 can also be, for example, an ellipse or a rectangle, or a shape other than a circle.

[0123] The first guide element 71 is driven by the guide element motor 76 (see reference). Figure 6 Rotational drive. The guide drive motor 76 is a motor capable of rotating in both directions. The guide drive motor 76 is, for example, a stepper motor. The first guide 71 is rotated by the guide drive motor 76, thereby achieving an introduction prohibition state and an introduction allow state.

[0124] like Figure 7 As shown in (a), the first guide 71, which is in a prohibited state, is positioned to block the inlet 34a1 of the import path 34a by using the portion without the notch 71b. Thus, the first guide 71 can be used to prevent the introduction of the tray T from the supply path 30 into the import path 34a of the separate path 34.

[0125] like Figure 7 As shown in (b), in the first guide 71 in the allowable state, the portion with the notch 71b is located at the inlet 34a1 of the inlet path 34a. Thus, the tray T being transported in the second part 32 of the supply path 30 can enter the inlet 34a1 of the inlet path 34a. The tray T, having entered the inlet 34a1, enters the interior of the notch 71b. The first guide 71, in the allowable state and with the tray T inside the notch 71b, is driven by the guide drive motor 76. Figure 7 In (b), the counterclockwise rotation enables the pallet T to be conveyed toward the unwinding position (downstream side in the conveying direction) in the inlet path 34a.

[0126] The second guide 72 is a component that further guides the pallet T, conveyed by the first guide 71 in the guide path 34a, downstream in the conveying direction. The second guide 72 is, for example, a generally rod-shaped component. Guide pieces 72b are provided at both ends of the second guide 72 along its length. The second guide 72 is positioned downstream in the conveying direction compared to the first guide 71. The second guide 72 is configured to rotate about a second rotation axis 72a extending in the vertical direction. The positions of the first guide 71 and the second guide 72 in the vertical direction are different. Therefore, even if the first guide 71 and the second guide 72 overlap when viewed from the vertical direction, they will not interfere with each other.

[0127] The second guide 72 is driven by the guide motor 77 (see reference). Figure 6 Rotational drive. The guide drive motor 77 is, for example, a stepper motor. The guide drive motor 76 that drives the first guide 71 to rotate and the guide drive motor 77 that drives the second guide 72 to rotate are different motors and can operate independently of each other.

[0128] The tray detection sensor 73 is capable of detecting a tray-present state (the presence of a tray T at the inlet 34a1) and a tray-free state (the absence of a tray T at the inlet 34a1). The tray detection sensor 73 is, for example, a contact sensor. The tray detection sensor 73 can also be a photoelectric sensor.

[0129] The pallet pressing part 74 is a component used to align the pallet T with the unwinding position. The pallet pressing part 74 is capable of swinging about the swing axis 74a as the swing center. The pallet pressing part 74 is exerted with force on the upstream side of the conveying direction of the individual path 34 by a force-applying member (not shown). The top end of the pallet pressing part 74 contacts the pallet T. The pallet pressing part 74 presses the pallet T upstream (rear side) by the force applied by the force-applying member, thus holding the pallet T in place.

[0130] Next, the operation of the yarn feeding section 8 will be explained. First, when the tray T is introduced from the second part 32 of the supply path 30 into the inlet path 34a of the separate path 34, the yarn feeding section 8 is positioned as follows: Figure 7 The first guide 71, as shown in (a), rotates clockwise to switch to the prohibited state. Figure 7 The introduction is allowed as shown in (b). In this state, if the tray T enters the inlet 34a1 of the inlet path 34a from the second part 32 of the supply path 30, the detection state of the tray detection sensor 73 switches from the trayless state to the tray-containing state. When the detection state of the tray detection sensor 73 switches to the tray-containing state, the state of the tray is... Figure 7 As shown in (b), the first guide 71, in the permitted state, rotates counterclockwise. Thus, as... Figure 8As shown in (a), the tray T, which has entered the inlet 34a1, is conveyed toward the unwinding position (introduction action). In this embodiment, the tray T is moved from the inlet 34a1 to the storage position by the introduction action. Alternatively, the tray T may be moved from the inlet 34a1 to the unwinding position by the introduction action.

[0131] The second guide 72 uses guide piece 72b to guide the tray T (refer to) that has been guided by the first guide 71 to the storage position. Figure 8 (a) guides the discussion. More specifically, as... Figure 8 As shown in (b), by rotating the second guide 72 counterclockwise, one of the guide pieces 72b presses against the tray T. As a result, the tray T is conveyed from the storage position toward the unwinding position (tray placement action).

[0132] After the second guide 72 begins guiding the tray T, without further introducing the tray T from the supply path 30 to the separate path 34, the first guide 71 is made into an introduction-prohibited state (see reference). Figure 7 (a)). On the other hand, when the tray T is introduced further from the supply path 30 to the separate path 34, the first guide 71 is made to be in an introduction-allowed state (see (a)). Figure 7 (b)

[0133] The tray pressing part 74 presses the tray T, which is guided by the second guide 72, upstream (rear). Thus, as... Figure 8 As shown in (b), the tray T is held in the unwinding position by the second guide 72 and the tray pressing part 74. In this state, the yarn Y is unwound from the yarn feeding tube S (winding tube Sa) supported on the tray T by the yarn winding unit 5.

[0134] After the yarn Y is unwound from the yarn feed tube S, make it as follows: Figure 8 As shown in (b), the second guide 72 supporting the tray T in the unwound position rotates counterclockwise. At this time, the second guide 72 is rotated by a force exceeding the force applied by the force-applying member that applies force to the tray pressing part 74. Thus, as Figure 9 As shown in (a), the tray T, pressed by the guide plate 72b, is conveyed by pushing open the tray pressing part 74. Then, as... Figure 9 As shown in (b), tray T is discharged into discharge path 34b (discharge action). Tray T discharged into discharge path 34b is then discharged into recycling path 33.

[0135] <Electrical Structure of Yarn Winding System>

[0136] While referring to Figure 6 frame Figure 1 The electrical structure of the yarn winding system 1 will be described in general. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the yarn winding system 1 has a main control unit 4a and multiple unit control units 5a. The main control unit 4a and the multiple unit control units 5a together constitute the control unit of the present invention.

[0137] The main control unit 4a controls the operation panel 4b and tower lamp 4c located in the control box 4. Additionally, the main control unit 4a controls the conveyor device 39 of the automatic winding machine 2. Furthermore, the main control unit 4a controls the conveyor device 56, switching devices 62 and 68, and preparation processing device 67 of the yarn bobbin handling device 3. The main control unit 4a controls the supply of wound yarn bobbins Sa from the spinning machine 100 and the return of empty yarn bobbins Se to the spinning machine 100. The main control unit 4a is connected to multiple unit control units 5a in a communicable manner.

[0138] When the operator operates the input unit 4b1, the main control unit 4a executes a yarn winding tube supply stop process, which stops the supply of yarn winding tubes Sa from the yarn tube handling device 3 to the tray conveying device 6. Additionally, during the yarn winding tube supply stop process, the main control unit 4a supplies a tray T without yarn winding tubes Sa installed from the yarn tube handling device 3 to the tray conveying device 6. In this embodiment, "tray T without yarn winding tubes Sa installed" refers to a tray T with empty yarn tubes Se installed. However, "tray T without yarn winding tubes Sa installed" could also be an empty tray T without feeding yarn tubes S installed, or a tray T with a very small amount of residual yarn tubes Sb installed.

[0139] After initiating the yarn winding tube supply stop process, the main control unit 4a sets the automatic winding machine 2 to a cleaning state when predetermined conditions (the operation stop conditions of this invention) are met. In this embodiment, the predetermined conditions are a predetermined duration during which no winding process is performed in all yarn winding units 5. The cleaning state refers to a state in which all yarn winding units 5 and the pallet conveying device 6 are stopped (operation stop process). The state in which the yarn winding units 5 are stopped refers to a state in which the winding motor 17b driving the traverse drum 17, the guide drive motor 76 driving the first guide 71, and the guide drive motor 77 driving the second guide 72 are stopped. The state in which the pallet conveying device 6 is stopped refers to a state in which the conveyor device 39 that transports the pallet T is stopped.

[0140] In addition, in this embodiment, the cleaning state refers to the following three states besides the state in which all yarn winding units 5 and pallet conveying devices 6 are stopped.

[0141] • Movable part 27 (see reference) Figure 5 The state of descending to the lowest position

[0142] ·like Figure 5As shown by the dashed line, the arm 15a of the upper yarn capturing and guiding device 15 is rotated to the upper position.

[0143] • Use blower 20 (refer to) Figure 6 (Stopped state)

[0144] By setting the movable part 27 to its lowest position, it is easy to remove fly waste and other debris accumulated on the movable part 27 and the lifting part 28. Furthermore, by setting the arm 15a of the upper yarn capturing guide device 15 to its upper position, it is easy to clean the yarn receiving device 12 and the yarn cleaner 13. The blower 20 is stopped for energy saving. In addition, the automatic winding machine 2 remains powered even during cleaning. The cleaning state is not limited to the above states; it is sufficient to stop at least all yarn winding units 5 and the tray conveying device 6.

[0145] Multiple unit control units 5a are individually provided corresponding to multiple yarn winding units 5. Each unit control unit 5a controls the operation of its corresponding yarn winding unit 5. Each unit control unit 5a receives signals from the yarn detection sensor 11, yarn tube detection sensor 29, and tray detection sensor 73 of its corresponding yarn winding unit 5. Based on information related to the introduction operation performed by the first guide 71 and information related to the discharge operation performed by the second guide 72, each unit control unit 5a can acquire tray quantity information related to the number of trays T on the corresponding individual path 34's inlet path 34a. The unit control unit 5a stores, for example, the acquired tray quantity information. Alternatively, the unit control unit 5a can also send the acquired tray quantity information to the main control unit 4a.

[0146] Based on the tray quantity information, if the number of trays T in the import path 34a is less than a predetermined number, the unit control unit 5a sets the first guide 71 to the import permission state. Furthermore, after setting the first guide 71 to the import permission state, if the detection state of the tray detection sensor 73 switches from a trayless state to a tray-containing state, the unit control unit 5a performs an import operation to transport the tray T that has entered the import port 34a1 of the import path 34a toward the unwinding position.

[0147] In addition, if the winding yarn tube Sa is not installed on the tray T which is transported from the storage position to the unwinding position by the tray placement action, the unit control unit 5a performs a discharge action to discharge the tray T in the unwinding position to the discharge path 34b using the second guide 72, and a tray placement action to transport the tray T in the storage position toward the unwinding position.

[0148] <Winding process in the yarn winding unit>

[0149] Here, while referring to Figure 10 The flowchart shown illustrates an example of the general processing sequence performed in the unit control unit 5a when the yarn feeding tube S is replaced midway through the winding of the yarn Y-direction winding tube B in the yarn winding unit 5.

[0150] First, the unit control unit 5a determines whether the operation of placing the device in the storage position using the second guide 72 has been performed (see reference). Figure 8 (a)) The tray T is oriented toward the unwinding position (refer to) Figure 8 (b) The pallet placement action of the conveyor (S1). The determination of S1 is repeated until it is determined that the pallet placement action has been performed. Furthermore, if it is determined that the pallet placement action has been performed (S1: Yes), the unit control unit 5a determines whether the yarn feeding tube S has been detected by the yarn tube detection sensor 29 (S2).

[0151] As described above, the yarn tube detection sensor 29 can detect the feed yarn tube S mounted on the tray T supported at the unwinding position. Therefore, when the feed yarn tube S is mounted on the tray T which has been transported to the unwinding position via the tray placement action of S1, the yarn tube detection sensor 29 detects the feed yarn tube S. Conversely, when the feed yarn tube S is not mounted on the tray T which has been transported to the unwinding position via the tray placement action of S1, the yarn tube detection sensor 29 does not detect the feed yarn tube S.

[0152] Therefore, if it is determined that the yarn feeding tube S has not been detected by the yarn tube detection sensor 29 (S2: No), that is, if the yarn feeding tube S is not installed on the tray T supported in the unwinding position, proceed to S8. In S8, the unit control unit 5a performs the operation of using the second guide 72 to bring the device to the unwinding position (see reference). Figure 8 (b)) The tray T is discharged to the discharge path 34b, and will be in the storage position (see reference). Figure 8 (a)) The tray T is oriented toward the unwinding position (refer to) Figure 8 (b) The pallet placement action of the transport.

[0153] On the other hand, if it is determined that the yarn feeding tube S is detected by the yarn tube detection sensor 29 (S2: Yes), the unit control unit 5a causes compressed air to be ejected from the blow-out nozzle 9 (S3). After that, the unit control unit 5a determines whether the yarn Y is detected by the yarn detection sensor 11 (S4).

[0154] When a winding tube Sa is mounted on a tray T that has been transported to the unwinding position via the tray placement action of S1, compressed air is ejected from the blow-out nozzle 9, thereby expelling the yarn end Ye (refer to) of the winding tube Sa, which has been inserted into the tube body S0 for preparation processing. Figure 4The yarn Y is blown up and detected by the yarn detection sensor 11. In addition, if an empty yarn tube Se or a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb is installed on the tray T which is transported to the unwinding position by the tray placement action of S1, the yarn Y will not be detected by the yarn detection sensor 11 even if compressed air is ejected from the blow-out nozzle 9.

[0155] Therefore, if it is determined that yarn Y has not been detected by the yarn detection sensor 11 (S4: No), that is, if the winding tube Sa is not installed on the tray T supported in the unwinding position, proceed to S8. In S8, the unit control unit 5a performs the operation of using the second guide 72 to bring the device to the unwinding position (see reference). Figure 8 (b)) The tray T is discharged to the discharge path 34b, and will be in the storage position (see reference). Figure 8 (a)) The tray T is oriented toward the unwinding position (refer to) Figure 8 (b) The pallet placement action of the transport.

[0156] On the other hand, when it is determined that yarn Y is detected by the yarn detection sensor 11 (S4: Yes), the unit control unit 5a connects the yarn unwound from the winding tube Sa (lower yarn Y1) with the yarn on the packaged P side (upper yarn Y2) (S5). Next, the unit control unit 5a begins the winding process of winding the yarn Y unwound from the newly placed feed tube S into the winding tube B (S6). Afterward, the unit control unit 5a determines whether the yarn Y in the feed tube S has been used up and whether the winding process from the feed tube S has ended (S7). When the yarn detection sensor 11 no longer detects yarn Y, it can be determined that the winding process has ended. The determination in S7 is repeated until it is determined that the winding process has ended.

[0157] If the winding process is determined to be complete (S7: Yes), the unit control unit 5a performs a discharge action to discharge the tray T containing the empty yarn tube Se with the yarn Y exhausted into the discharge path 34b, and places it in the storage position (see reference). Figure 8 (a)) The tray T is oriented toward the unwinding position (refer to) Figure 8 (b) Pallet placement action (S8) of the transport.

[0158] <Preparation for cleaning operations of automatic winding machines>

[0159] Next, while referring to Figure 11 The flowchart shown illustrates an example of the processing sequence performed by the main control unit 4a during preparation for the cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine 2 in the yarn winding system 1.

[0160] First, the main control unit 4a determines whether the operator has performed an operation related to the preparation start instruction for the cleaning operation using the input unit 4b1 (S11). The determination of S11 is repeated until it is determined that the input unit 4b1 has been operated. And, if it is determined that the input unit 4b1 has been operated (S11: Yes), the main control unit 4a executes a yarn winding tube supply stop process that stops the supply of the yarn winding tube Sa from the yarn winding tube handling device 3 to the tray conveying device 6 (S12).

[0161] Here, an example of the processing performed by the main control unit 4a during the yarn bobbin supply stoppage process is described. The main control unit 4a controls the conveyor device 56 of the yarn bobbin processing device 3 (see reference). Figure 6 This prevents the tray T from the spinning machine 100 from being supplied to the bobbin handling device 3. The main control unit 4a controls the switching device 62 to transport all trays T that are being transported on the recovery path 53 to the transport bypass 55. That is, the tray T containing one of the following bobbins, namely the wound bobbin Sa, the empty bobbin Se, and the bobbin with very little residual yarn Sb, is transported to the transport bypass 55. The bobbin with very little residual yarn Sb transported to the transport bypass 55 has its yarn Y removed by the residual yarn removal device 65, becoming the empty bobbin Se. Moreover, the tray T containing one of the following bobbins, namely the wound bobbin Sa and the empty bobbin Se, is transported from the transport bypass 55 to the supply path 52.

[0162] The main control unit 4a controls the switching device 68 to transport the tray T with the wound yarn tube Sa to the return bypass 54. This stops the supply of the tray T with the wound yarn tube Sa to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2. The main control unit 4a controls the switching device 68 to transport the tray T without the wound yarn tube Sa (in this embodiment, the tray T with the empty yarn tube Se) directly downstream of the supply path 52. Thus, the tray T without the wound yarn tube Sa is transported to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2.

[0163] Subsequently, the main control unit 4a performs a notification process, notifying the user that preparations for cleaning operations are underway (S13). This notification process can be performed, for example, by flashing the tower light 4c. Alternatively, the notification process can be performed by displaying a message indicating that preparations for cleaning operations are underway on the display of the operation panel 4b.

[0164] If the yarn tube supply stop process is performed in S12, the supply path 30 of the pallet conveying device 6 becomes a mixture of pallets T with yarn tubes Sa installed and pallets T without yarn tubes Sa installed. Therefore, there are cases where pallets T without yarn tubes Sa are introduced from the supply path 30 into the separate path 34 of the yarn winding unit 5. Furthermore, by performing the yarn tube supply stop process, the number of yarn tubes Sa on the supply path 30 of the pallet conveying device 6 gradually decreases. And, the number of cases where pallets T without yarn tubes Sa are introduced from the supply path 30 into the separate path 34 of the yarn winding unit 5 increases. In the yarn winding unit 5 where pallets T without yarn tubes Sa are introduced, the winding process does not begin. Figure 10 (S6). Therefore, after the yarn tube supply stop process is performed, the number of yarn winding units 5 that have not undergone winding gradually increases.

[0165] The main control unit 4a determines whether the winding process has not been performed in all yarn winding units 5 (S14). The determination in S14 is repeated until it is determined that the winding process has not been performed in all yarn winding units 5. When the winding process has not been performed in all yarn winding units 5, it means that the winding tube Sa is not installed on the tray T supported at the unwinding position in all yarn winding units 5. Even in this state, if there is still a winding tube Sa remaining on the supply path 30, there is a possibility that a winding tube Sa may be introduced into a certain yarn winding unit 5 to start the winding process.

[0166] If the main control unit 4a determines in S14 that no winding process has been performed in all yarn winding units 5 (S14: Yes), it begins time measurement (S15). Then, the main control unit 4a determines whether no winding process has been performed in all yarn winding units 5 (S16). If it is not determined in S16 that no winding process has been performed in all yarn winding units 5 (S16: No), that is, if winding has started in one yarn winding unit 5, it returns to S14. On the other hand, if it is determined in S16 that no winding process has been performed in all yarn winding units 5 (S16: Yes), the main control unit 4a determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed (S17).

[0167] If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (S17: No), return to S16. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has exceeded (S17: Yes), the main control unit 4a sets the automatic winding machine 2 to the cleaning state (S18). That is, at this time, the main control unit 4a sends an instruction signal to the unit control unit 5a of each yarn winding unit 5, indicating that the yarn winding unit 5 should be set to the cleaning state. Upon receiving the instruction signal, the unit control unit 5a sets the yarn winding unit 5 to the cleaning state. In addition, the main control unit 4a stops the tray conveying device 6.

[0168] After the automatic winding machine 2 enters the cleaning state, the main control unit 4a performs a notification process, notifying the main control unit 4a of the information that preparations for the cleaning operation are complete and the cleaning operation can be carried out (S19). This notification process can be performed, for example, by turning off the tower lamp 4c. Alternatively, the notification process can be performed by displaying a message indicating that the cleaning operation can be carried out on the display of the operation panel 4b.

[0169] <Features of the Implementation Method>

[0170] As described above, the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment includes: an automatic winding machine 2, which performs a winding process of winding yarn Y unwound from a yarn bobbin Sa to form a package P, wherein the yarn bobbin Sa is a yarn bobbin on which yarn Y is wound; a yarn bobbin processing device 3, which performs a preparation process on the yarn bobbin Sa for the winding process; and a main control unit 4a and a unit control unit 5a. The automatic winding machine 2 includes: a plurality of yarn winding units 5, which perform winding processes respectively; and a tray conveying device 6, which can convey a tray T, conveying the tray T containing the yarn bobbin Sa that has been prepared in the yarn bobbin processing device 3 to each yarn winding unit 5, and conveying the tray T containing the processed yarn bobbin U that has been wound in each yarn winding unit 5 to the yarn bobbin processing device 3. After the main control unit 4a and the unit control unit 5a start the yarn winding tube supply stop process, which stops the supply of the tray T with the yarn winding tube Sa installed from the yarn tube handling device 3 to the tray conveying device 6, they are set to the cleaning state, which stops all yarn winding units 5 and tray conveying devices 6, if predetermined conditions are met.

[0171] According to the above structure, if the yarn winding tube supply stop process is performed, the number of yarn winding tubes Sa on the supply path 30 of the pallet conveying device 6 gradually decreases. Therefore, by setting the cleaning state to stop all yarn winding units 5 and pallet conveying device 6 when predetermined conditions are met after the yarn winding tube supply stop process has started, the number of yarn winding tubes Sa affected by the cleaning operation can be reduced during the subsequent cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine 2. Thus, the impact of the cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine 2 on the preparation state of the yarn winding tubes Sa can be suppressed.

[0172] Furthermore, the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment includes an input unit 4b1 configured to input an instruction signal, which instructs the execution of a yarn winding tube supply stop process. When an instruction signal is input into the input unit 4b1, the main control unit 4a executes the yarn winding tube supply stop process. Therefore, when an operator operates the input unit 4b1 and inputs an instruction signal, the yarn winding tube supply stop process can be executed.

[0173] Furthermore, in the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment, the predetermined condition for setting the state to cleaning after the yarn tube supply stop processing has started is that the state in which no winding processing has been performed in all yarn winding units 5 continues for a predetermined time.

[0174] If an instruction signal is input into the input unit 4b1 to execute the yarn bobbin supply stop process, the number of yarn bobbins on the supply path 30 of the tray conveying device 6 decreases, and the supply of yarn bobbins Sa to each yarn winding unit 5 is gradually interrupted. In the yarn winding unit 5 where the supply of yarn bobbins Sa is interrupted, winding processing is no longer performed. If the supply of yarn bobbins Sa is interrupted in all yarn winding units 5, it becomes a state where no winding processing is performed in all yarn winding units 5. Even in this state, if there are still yarn bobbins Sa remaining on the supply path 30, there is a possibility that yarn bobbins Sa may be introduced into a certain yarn winding unit 5 and winding processing may begin. Therefore, by continuing the state where no winding processing is performed in all yarn winding units 5 for a predetermined time, it can be determined that the number of yarn bobbins Sa on the supply path 30 is sufficiently small. In this structure, since the automatic winding machine 2 is set to the cleaning state when the number of yarn tubes Sa on the supply path 30 is sufficiently small, the impact on the preparation state of the yarn tubes Sa during the cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine 2 can be reliably suppressed. Furthermore, the operator only needs to input an instruction signal to stop the yarn tube supply to the input unit 4b1, after which the automatic winding machine 2 can be automatically set to the cleaning state.

[0175] Based on this, the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment includes a tower light 4c for reporting information. After the main control unit 4a initiates the yarn tube supply stop processing, it causes the tower light 4c to flash, indicating that preparation for cleaning operations is underway. Therefore, the operator can be informed that preparation for cleaning operations is in progress.

[0176] Furthermore, in the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment, after the automatic winding machine 2 enters the cleaning state, the main control unit 4a turns off the tower lamp 4c, indicating that cleaning operations can be performed. Therefore, the operator can be informed that cleaning operations can be performed.

[0177] Based on this, in the yarn winding system 1 of this embodiment, the main control unit 4a, during the yarn bobbin supply stop processing, supplies trays T without yarn bobbins Sa to the tray conveying device 6 from the yarn bobbin processing device 3. Therefore, the number of yarn bobbins Sa on the tray conveying device 6 can be reduced, and excessive accumulation of trays T on the yarn bobbin processing device 3 can be suppressed.

[0178] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above based on the accompanying drawings, but it should be understood that the specific structure is not limited to these embodiments. The scope of the present invention is not shown by the description of the above embodiments, but by the scope of the claims, and includes the same meaning as the scope of the claims and all modifications within that scope.

[0179] In the above embodiment, the case where the wound yarn tube Sa is supplied from the spinning machine 100 to the yarn tube handling device 3 while mounted on the tray T is described, but it is not limited to this. For example, Figure 12 In the first modified example of the yarn winding system shown, the bobbin processing device 3a is separate from the spinning machine 100. Furthermore, a bobbin supply device 101 is provided to supply wound bobbins Sa to the bobbin processing device 3a. The bobbin supply device 101 is located on the right side of the bobbin processing device 3a. The wound bobbins Sa generated in the spinning machine 100 are transported to the bobbin supply device 101 and fed into it. The bobbin supply device 101 includes a bobbin groove 101a for mounting the wound bobbins Sa onto the tray T.

[0180] The conveying path 51a of the yarn tube handling device 3a connects the ends of the yarn tube supply device 101 (right side) of the supply path 52 and the recovery path 53 via the connecting path 55a. The yarn tube chute 101a of the yarn tube supply device 101 is located above the connecting path 55a. When the tray T without the yarn tube S is located below the yarn tube chute 101a in the connecting path 55a, the yarn tube supply device 101 discharges the wound yarn tube Sa from the yarn tube chute 101a. Thus, the wound yarn tube Sa is installed onto the tray T.

[0181] Additionally, a yarn tube ejector 69 is provided on the upstream side of the conveying direction of the yarn tube discharge point from the yarn tube chute 101a in the connecting path 55a. The yarn tube ejector 69 is configured to pull out empty yarn tubes Se and yarn tubes with very little residual yarn from the tray T.

[0182] In this modified yarn winding system, an example of the processing performed by the main control unit 4a when the yarn bobbin supply is stopped is described. First, after the operator performs an operation related to the start of preparation for the cleaning operation using the input unit 4b1, the main control unit 4a stops supplying the yarn bobbin Sa from the bobbin supply device 101. In this modified example, the tray T containing the yarn bobbin Sa, which is being transported in the recovery path 53, is conveyed to the supply path 52 via the connecting path 55a. The tray T containing empty yarn bobbins Se or yarn bobbins with very little residual yarn Sb, which is being transported in the recovery path 53, has its yarn bobbin S pulled out of the tray T by the yarn bobbin ejector 69 in the connecting path 55a, becoming an empty tray T, which is then conveyed to the supply path 52.

[0183] The main control unit 4a can also control the switching device 68 to transport the tray T with the winding bobbin Sa to the return bypass 54. This stops the supply of the tray T with the winding bobbin Sa to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2. The main control unit 4a controls the switching device 68 to transport the tray T without the winding bobbin Sa (empty tray T in this variation) directly downstream of the supply path 52. Thus, the tray T without the winding bobbin Sa is transported to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2.

[0184] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the predetermined condition for setting the automatic winding machine 2 to the cleaning state after the yarn tube supply stop processing has started is that the state of no winding processing in all yarn winding units 5 continues for a predetermined time, but it is not limited to this.

[0185] For example, after the yarn winding tube supply stop process has started, the automatic winding machine 2 can be set to the cleaning state at the point in time when it is in a state where no winding process is performed in all yarn winding units 5.

[0186] Alternatively, the automatic winding machine 2 can be set to a cleaning state when all yarn winding units 5 have stopped sequentially, starting from the yarn winding unit 5 that has continuously performed the discharge action of discharging the tray T without the yarn tube Sa installed from the separate path 34 a predetermined number of times. In this case, since all yarn winding units 5 have stopped, the cleaning state is set by stopping the tray conveying device 6.

[0187] Furthermore, for example, after the yarn winding tube supply stop process is started by the operator operating the input unit 4b1, the automatic winding machine 2 can be set to the cleaning state when the operator operates the input unit 4b1 again.

[0188] Based on this, the cleaning start time, which is the moment when the cleaning state is set (the execution time of the operation stop processing of the present invention), can also be stored in the storage unit 4a1 (see reference). Figure 6 Furthermore, the cleaning preparation time, which is the time from the start of the yarn bobbin supply stop process until the automatic winding machine 2 is set to the cleaning state, can also be stored in the storage unit 4a1. These cleaning start times and cleaning preparation times are, for example, input by the operator. In this case, the main control unit 4a starts the yarn bobbin supply stop process at the moment when the cleaning preparation time is regressed from the cleaning start time. At this time, the predetermined condition for setting the automatic winding machine 2 to the cleaning state is that the cleaning start time has been reached. In this modified example, by starting the yarn bobbin supply stop process before the cleaning start time stored in the storage unit 4a1, the number of yarn bobbins Sa on the supply path 30 of the tray conveyor 6 can be reduced in advance before the automatic winding machine 2 is set to the cleaning state. Therefore, the automatic winding machine 2 can be set to the cleaning state at the predetermined cleaning start time to start the cleaning operation.

[0189] Furthermore, there are cases where the automatic winding machine 2 includes a yarn winding unit 5 that performs winding processes on yarns Y of different varieties. Since the winding process takes different times depending on the variety, the required cleaning preparation time also varies depending on the variety. Therefore, in such cases, it is preferable to be able to set the cleaning preparation time according to the variety.

[0190] Next, while referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The second modification of the above-described embodiment will be described. In the yarn winding system 1b of this modification, as follows... Figure 13 As shown, an RF tag Ta is provided on the tray T. Furthermore, in the automatic winding machine 2b of the yarn winding system 1b, each of the multiple yarn winding units 5 is individually equipped with multiple readers 36 (yarn tube information reading units of the present invention) capable of reading information written in the RF tag Ta of the tray T being transported on the supply path 30. Each reader 36 is disposed in the second part 32 of the supply path 30 between a branch of the individual path 34 of the corresponding yarn winding unit 5 and a branch of the individual path 34 adjacent to that individual path 34 on the upstream side of the transport direction. Alternatively, each reader 36 can be provided for each predetermined number of yarn winding units 5, and the introduction of the predetermined number of yarn winding units 5 can be controlled in units of the span of each reader 36.

[0191] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown, the yarn tube processing device 3b of the yarn winding system 1b is equipped with a yarn tube detection sensor 81 capable of detecting whether a yarn feeding tube S is installed on the tray T, and a writer 82 (the yarn tube information writing unit of the present invention) capable of writing information to the RF tag Ta. The yarn tube detection sensor 81 is provided, for example, inside the residual yarn removal device 65. The writer 82 is provided, for example, inside the preparation processing device 67.

[0192] The yarn tube detection sensor 81 includes, for example, a reflective sensor located at the height of the tray T, and a reflective sensor located above the upper end of the tray T and at the height of the yarn feed tube S. Therefore, when the yarn tube detection sensor 81 detects the tray T using the sensor that can detect the tray T, and when the sensor that can detect the yarn feed tube S detects the yarn feed tube S, it can detect that a yarn feed tube S is installed on the tray T. Conversely, when the yarn tube detection sensor 81 detects the tray T using the sensor that can detect the tray T, and when the sensor that can detect the yarn feed tube S does not detect the yarn feed tube S, it can detect that no yarn feed tube S is installed on the tray T, i.e., the tray T is empty.

[0193] Based on the detection results of the yarn quantity detection device 66 and the yarn tube detection sensor 81, the writer 82 writes information about whether a yarn tube Sa is installed on the RF tag Ta of the tray T being transported on the supply path 52. In this modified example, the writer 82 writes one of the following yarn tube information 1 to 3.

[0194] • A yarn winding tube Sa (yarn tube information 1) is installed on this tray T.

[0195] • An empty yarn tube Se or a yarn tube with very little residual yarn Sb (yarn tube information 2) is installed on this tray T.

[0196] • This tray T is an empty tray T without the yarn feed tube S installed (yarn tube information 3).

[0197] Here, as described above, the yarn quantity detection device 66 detects whether the yarn feeding tube S is a wound yarn tube Sa. Based on the detection result of the yarn quantity detection device 66, yarn tube information 1 or yarn tube information 2 is written into the RF tag Ta of the following tray T, wherein the tray T is detected by the yarn tube detection sensor 81 as having a yarn feeding tube S installed. Additionally, yarn tube information 3 is written into the RF tag Ta of the following tray T, wherein the tray T is detected by the yarn tube detection sensor 81 as not having a yarn feeding tube S installed.

[0198] In the second variation described above, the main control unit 4a and each unit control unit 5a can determine the installation status of the winding yarn tubes Sa on the tray T being transported on the supply path 30 based on the yarn tube information read by the reader 36. The main control unit 4a and each unit control unit 5a control that, for all of the multiple yarn winding units 5, when a tray T without winding yarn tubes Sa is transported, the tray T is not introduced until the introduction conditions described later are met. Specifically, for all yarn winding units 5, if the yarn tube information of the corresponding RF tag Ta read by the reader 36 indicates that the tray T is not equipped with winding yarn tubes Sa (i.e., yarn tube information 2 or yarn tube information 3), the main control unit 4a and each unit control unit 5a set the first guide member 71 to an introduction prohibition state.

[0199] Therefore, after the yarn winding tube supply stop process is performed, trays T without yarn winding tubes Sa are not introduced from the supply path 30, which is in a state where trays T with and without yarn winding tubes Sa are mixed together, into a separate path 34. Only trays T with yarn winding tubes Sa are introduced into the separate path 34. Trays T without yarn winding tubes Sa are not introduced into any yarn winding unit 5's separate path 34 but instead circulate on the loop supply path 30. Therefore, trays T without yarn winding tubes Sa can be efficiently gathered on the supply path 30. However, when only trays T with yarn winding tubes Sa are introduced into the separate path 34, there is a possibility that the supply path 30 may become congested with trays T without yarn winding tubes Sa when the number of trays T with yarn winding tubes Sa decreases.

[0200] To suppress such congestion, under the condition of introduction described later, the main control unit 4a and each unit control unit 5a control the multiple yarn winding units 5 into non-introduction units that do not introduce trays T without yarn bobbins Sa to the separate path 34, and introduction units that introduce trays T without yarn bobbins Sa to the separate path 34. Regarding the non-introduction units, if the yarn bobbin information read by the corresponding reader 36 indicates that the tray T does not have yarn bobbins Sa installed, the first guide 71 is set to an introduction-prohibited state. Regarding the introduction units, if the yarn bobbin information read by the corresponding reader 36 indicates that the tray T does not have yarn bobbins Sa installed, the first guide 71 is set to an introduction-allowed state. In this way, trays T without yarn bobbins Sa can be actively introduced to the separate path 34 in a portion of the yarn winding units 5. This prevents the supply path 30 from becoming congested with trays T without yarn bobbins Sa.

[0201] Furthermore, the aforementioned introduction condition is, for example, that the number of trays T containing information indicating that the winding yarn tubes Sa are installed in the supply path 30 is less than a first predetermined number, as determined by the reading result from the reader 36. That is, based on the condition that the number of trays T containing the winding yarn tubes Sa in the supply path 30 has sufficiently decreased according to the reading result from the reader 36, the introduction of trays T without the winding yarn tubes Sa to the separate path 34 begins in the introduction unit. Additionally, after confirming that the number of trays T containing the winding yarn tubes Sa in the supply path 30 is less than a second predetermined number (smaller than the first predetermined number) according to the reading result from the reader 36, the automatic winding machine 2 can be stopped and set to a cleaning state.

[0202] Alternatively, the aforementioned introduction condition can also be that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the yarn winding tube supply stop process. After the yarn winding tube supply stop process begins, the number of trays T without installed yarn winding tubes Sa in supply path 30 increases over time. In this structure, when the number of trays T without installed yarn winding tubes Sa in supply path 30 increases to a certain extent after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the yarn winding tube supply stop process, the introduction of trays T without installed yarn winding tubes Sa into separate path 34 can begin in a portion of the yarn winding units 5.

[0203] In the second variation, the control of dividing the multiple yarn winding units 5 into non-introduction units and introduction units may not be performed. That is, the trays T without yarn bobbins Sa may not be introduced into any individual path 34 until all the trays T with yarn bobbins Sa on the supply path 30 are used up. In this case, after all the yarn Y with yarn bobbins Sa has been wound by the yarn winding unit 5, the trays T without yarn bobbins Sa are introduced into the individual path 34.

[0204] In the second variation, the division of the multiple yarn winding units 5 into non-introducing units and introducing units can also be controlled after the yarn winding tube supply process has just stopped. Alternatively, the ratio of non-introducing units to introducing units can vary depending on the number of trays T on the supply path 30 that have yarn winding tubes Sa installed, and / or the elapsed time since the start of the yarn winding tube supply stop process. In this case, the fewer the number of trays T on the supply path 30 that have yarn winding tubes Sa installed, the higher the proportion of introducing units. The longer the elapsed time since the start of the yarn winding tube supply stop process, the higher the proportion of introducing units.

[0205] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the case where the tray T without the yarn tube Sa installed is supplied from the yarn tube handling device 3 to the tray conveying device 6 during the yarn tube supply stop process is described, but it is not limited to this. Alternatively, during the yarn tube supply stop process, the conveyor device 56 of the yarn tube handling device 3 can be completely stopped, thus stopping the supply of tray T to the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2. Therefore, once the yarn with the yarn tube Sa in the tray conveying device 6 of the automatic winding machine 2 is wound by the automatic winding machine 2, preparation for the cleaning operation is completed, and the cleaning operation can be performed.

[0206] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the purpose of reporting that preparations for cleaning operations are underway and that cleaning operations are possible has been described, but such reporting may not be required.

[0207] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, it was explained that the control during preparation for the cleaning operation of the automatic winding machine 2 in the yarn winding system 1 is performed in cooperation between the main control unit 4a and the unit control unit 5a, but it is not limited to this. For example, the above-described control can also be performed by the main control unit 4a alone.

Claims

1. A yarn winding system, comprising: An automatic winding machine performs a winding process to form a package of yarn by winding yarn that has been unwound from a yarn bobbin. The wound yarn tube is a yarn tube with yarn wound around its body; Yarn tube processing device, which prepares the wound yarn tube for the winding process; and Control Department The yarn winding system is characterized in that... The automatic winding machine has the following features: Multiple yarn winding units, each performing the winding process; and A pallet conveying device is capable of conveying pallets, specifically pallets containing the yarn tubes that have undergone the pre-treatment process in the yarn tube processing device, to each of the yarn winding units, and pallets containing the processed yarn tubes that have undergone the winding process in each of the yarn winding units, to the yarn tube processing device. The control unit is capable of performing the following processes: The yarn tube supply is stopped, causing the supply of the tray equipped with the yarn tube to the tray conveying device to cease. and The operation stop process involves stopping all yarn winding units and the pallet conveying device after the yarn tube supply stop process has started, provided that predetermined operation stop conditions are met.

2. The yarn winding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes an input unit configured to input an indication signal, which instructs the winding yarn tube to perform a stop processing. The control unit performs the yarn feeding stop process when the instruction signal is input into the input unit.

3. The yarn winding system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The operation is stopped when no more winding is performed in all of the yarn winding units.

4. The yarn winding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a storage unit that stores the execution time of the run stop process, which is the time when the run stop process is executed. The control unit begins the yarn winding tube supply stop process before the execution time of the operation stop process. The operation stop condition is the arrival of the operation stop processing execution time.

5. The yarn winding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The notification department is equipped with notification information. After the control unit initiates the process of stopping the supply of the yarn winding tube, it causes the notification unit to report information indicating that preparations for cleaning operations are underway.

6. The yarn winding system according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the operation stop process is completed, the control unit causes the notification unit to notify the notification unit of the information that the cleaning operation can be carried out.

7. The yarn winding system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, During the yarn tube supply stop process, the control unit supplies the tray without the yarn tube to the tray conveying device from the yarn tube processing device.

8. The yarn winding system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The tray is equipped with an RF tag. The pallet conveying device has: The supply path, which is the path through which the tray from the yarn tube processing device is fed, is formed in a loop; and Multiple separate paths, each branching off from the supply path, are individually configured corresponding to each of the multiple yarn winding units. Each of the yarn winding units has an introduction selection mechanism that can obtain an introduction prohibition state that prohibits the introduction of the tray from the supply path to the separate path, and an introduction permission state that allows the introduction of the tray from the supply path to the separate path; A yarn tube information writing unit, configured to write yarn tube information into the RF tag, the yarn tube information indicating whether the wound yarn tube is installed in the tray where the RF tag is located; and The yarn tube information reading unit is capable of reading the yarn tube information written in the RF tag of the tray being transported in the supply path. The control unit divides the plurality of yarn winding units into non-introduction units that do not introduce the tray without the winding tube into the separate path, and introduction units that introduce the tray without the winding tube into the separate path. Regarding the non-introduction unit, when a tray is delivered where the yarn tube information read by the yarn tube information reading unit indicates that the winding yarn tube is not installed, the introduction selection mechanism is set to the introduction prohibition state. Regarding the introduction unit, when the tray is delivered and the yarn tube information read by the yarn tube information reading unit indicates that the winding yarn tube is not installed, the introduction selection mechanism is set to the introduction-allowed state.

9. The yarn winding system according to claim 8, characterized in that, After the control unit initiates the process of stopping the supply of the yarn winding tube, Regarding all of the plurality of yarn winding units, when a tray is delivered where the yarn tube information read by the yarn tube information reading unit indicates that the winding yarn tube is not installed, the introduction selection mechanism is set to the introduction prohibition state until the predetermined introduction conditions are met. When the aforementioned introduction conditions are met, the plurality of yarn winding units are divided into non-introduction units and introduction units for control.

10. The yarn winding system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The introduction condition is the elapsed time from the start of the process where the yarn supply to the winding tube stops.

11. The yarn winding system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The condition for introduction is that, in the supply path, the number of trays containing information indicating that the yarn tubes are installed is less than a predetermined number, as the yarn tube information read by the yarn tube information reading unit is such that the number of trays is less than a predetermined number.

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