Maintenance device for performing and evaluating a status detection of a work station and / or a maintenance device for a ring spinning machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a maintenance device (1) for performing service operations on a work station of a ring spinning machine, wherein the maintenance device (1) comprises a main structure (2), wherein at least one operating member (3) and a control unit (4) are attached to the main structure (2), and wherein the maintenance device comprises at least one lighting member (5) for illuminating at least one partial area of the work station and a camera (6) which can be positioned on the main structure, wherein the camera (6) generates image data of both the at least one partial area of the work station and the operating member (3) of the maintenance device, and wherein the maintenance device (1) further comprises an evaluation device for evaluating the image data generated by the camera (6). Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for performing a status detection and evaluation of the work station and / or the maintenance device using the maintenance device according to the invention.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a maintenance apparatus for performing service operations on a workstation of a ring spinning machine and for performing and evaluating the status detection of a workstation of a ring spinning machine, as described in the preamble of the independent claims, and a method for performing status detection of a workstation of a ring spinning machine. Background Technology

[0002] Ring spinning machines are known in the prior art. To maximize the efficiency of ring spinning machines, it is essential to ensure the trouble-free operation of each workstation. Maintenance tasks and repairs must be performed promptly to prevent prolonged idle periods at workstations, and preventative measures must be taken to prevent idle periods from the outset. In the event of yarn breakage, splicing must be performed immediately. So-called service trolleys have long been used for various maintenance tasks; once a need arises, triggered by an abnormal condition (whether due to defects, yarn breakage, etc.), these trolleys move to the affected location and perform the necessary maintenance. An example of this is illustrated in EP 398 70 90 A1. Service trolleys capable of detecting anomalies at workstations that could lead to operational disruptions are also known.

[0003] For example, EP 230 40 86 B1 discloses a service unit equipped with a camera, which allows for the detection of states, such as the position of movable parts of the workstation or service unit itself. Furthermore, this state detection can be used for fault diagnosis purposes. This not only enables the service unit or workstation to trigger automatic responses but also facilitates fault diagnosis by an operator located at a greater distance. For this purpose, camera images can be transmitted to the operator via a data cable (e.g., the Internet).

[0004] The drawback of this method is that it requires operator troubleshooting. Valuable time is lost due to the transmission of camera images to the operator and the subsequent operator's troubleshooting.

[0005] EP 3 628 761 A1 discloses a service trolley that approaches the spinning position and determines the state of the spinning station regarding the feasibility of a standard procedure for repairing yarn breaks using the service trolley. For this purpose, at least one sensor (e.g., a camera) is used, directly or indirectly connected to a state determination module, where information is used for image analysis (comparison with a reference image). The image analysis system can be trained (including via self-learning) to enable rapid analysis even under varying conditions (such as changes in production speed, yarn color, etc.). If the state of the spinning machine station is deemed suitable for repairing yarn breaks using the standard procedure of the service trolley, the decision to proceed is made by the service trolley itself or by the ring spinning machine.

[0006] The drawback of this solution is that the service cart only determines whether a yarn breakage can be repaired using standard procedures; it does not provide information about the spinning position and / or the status of the service cart before, during, or after the yarn breakage repair. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of this invention is to provide a maintenance device for performing and evaluating the condition detection of the workstation and / or maintenance device itself, which is cost- and time-efficient and contributes to the efficient operation of the ring spinning machine and / or maintenance device. A corresponding method is also proposed.

[0008] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by a maintenance device for performing service operations on a workstation of a ring spinning machine, wherein the maintenance device includes a main structure, and wherein a control unit and at least one operating member are attached to the main structure. Furthermore, the maintenance device includes at least one lighting member for illuminating at least a portion of the workstation of the ring spinning machine to which service operations are to be performed, and wherein the maintenance device includes at least one camera positioned on the main structure of the maintenance device such that image data of both the at least a portion of the workstation and the operating member of the maintenance device can be generated, and wherein the maintenance device further includes an evaluation device for evaluating the image data generated by the camera.

[0009] The control unit of the maintenance device controls the maintenance device itself and at least one operating component attached to the main structure of the maintenance device. Therefore, the maintenance device is guided to and positioned in front of the workstation of the ring spinning machine requiring servicing operations, such that at least one operating component attached to the main structure can perform servicing operations at said workstation or on spinning components (e.g., rings, travelers, yarn guides, air ring control rings, drafting system, etc.). The operating component is controlled by the control unit of the maintenance device. The control unit constitutes a so-called embedded system and is configurable.

[0010] An example of a service operation is rejoining yarns after they break (jointing process).

[0011] The occurrence of yarn breakage is determined, for example, by an ISM (Single Spindle Monitoring System) or a third-party system. The ISM reports to the control unit of the ring spinning machine, which in turn notifies the maintenance device. Other operations that can be performed by the maintenance device are maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the corresponding spinning parts to remove fiber residue or fly waste by means of, for example, compressed air or mechanical operating components, or closing open spinning parts (e.g., yarn guide hooks). These maintenance tasks may be performed more or less concurrently with service operations (e.g., splicing processes). Replacement of travelers, yarn guides, etc., is also possible. In the context of this invention, a "service operation" should be understood as a specific operation for which the maintenance device is summoned to the corresponding spinning position, or a specific operation for which the maintenance device was initially stopped at the spinning position. This is typically yarn breakage; however, it can also be, for example, the need to clean spinning parts, the need to replace travelers, or similar issues, such as problems determined by the maintenance device during the performance of a service operation, subsequently reported to the maintenance device or machine controller, but not resolved by the maintenance device performing the service operation. In this case, the service operation performed by the maintenance device that has been summoned to the corresponding spinning position includes cleaning the corresponding spinning component.

[0012] For example, the main structure of the maintenance device may take the form of a housing designed to protect at least one operating component attached thereto, as well as other components of the maintenance device (particularly including a control unit, power supply, data cables, etc.). When the maintenance device is positioned in front of a workstation on a ring spinning machine requiring servicing, the housing-like main structure opens at least partially toward the workstation, allowing at least one operating component to access the corresponding spinning component at the workstation to perform the required servicing operation. The main structure provides space for accommodating / attaching all components of the maintenance device, including, in particular, the operating component, control unit, power supply, data cables, operating unit (e.g., in the form of a touchscreen), and other components known in the art, as well as at least one lighting component, at least one camera, at least one evaluation device, and additional data transmission lines. Alternatively, the main structure may be a platform or base plate to which at least one operating component and other components of the maintenance device, as listed above, are attached. The main structure may be configured to be movable.

[0013] At least one illumination component is configured to illuminate at least a partial area of ​​a workstation (as defined below). When at least a partial area or the entire workstation is illuminated, the camera can more easily detect the yarn / fiber composite to be processed, as well as yarn residue, other contaminants, or signs of wear—regardless of their texture or color. For example, during normal spinning operations, the yarn / fiber composite to be processed is difficult to see with the naked eye and with a camera. Illuminating at least a partial area of ​​the workstation enables the camera to detect the yarn / fiber composite to be processed, thereby allowing for the detection of the yarn path. Furthermore, by illuminating at least a partial area (or the entire workstation), the camera can detect contaminants present on the corresponding spinning components, such as yarn residue or fly waste. In addition, illumination allows the camera to detect signs of wear or damage on the spinning components (e.g., wear on rollers, travelers, etc.), as well as missing or misaligned spinning components. Additionally, adequate illumination helps prevent image noise. At least one lighting component is configured such that it either occupies a fixed position in or on the maintenance device, or is designed to be pivotable (optionally controllable by the control unit of the maintenance device).

[0014] At least one lighting element may include multiple lighting elements arranged in an array (both fixed or pivotable).

[0015] In this context, a portion of the workstation of a ring spinning machine is defined as follows: The workstation of a ring spinning machine includes spinning components, such as, in particular, the output rollers, drafting system, yarn guide hooks, balloon control rings, rings and travelers, spindles and bobbins (or yarn tubes), etc. Additionally, the fiber complex to be processed travels in yarn form between the output roller pair and the spindle along the spindle axis. Therefore, a portion of the workstation of a ring spinning machine should be understood to include one or more spinning components, including the yarn to be processed extending along the spindle axis near said spinning component (if present).

[0016] Once the maintenance device performs a service operation, illuminating at least a portion of the workstation of the ring spinning machine automatically illuminates the corresponding operating component of the maintenance device simultaneously. Therefore, at least one operating component can be detected by a camera at least during the service operation (e.g., the yarn path from the illuminated portion of the workstation to the operating component, to determine whether the yarn has been successfully picked up by the operating component).

[0017] Maintenance devices typically include at least one operating component—which may cooperate with other operating components to perform service operations (e.g., splicing processes) at the spinning position and move in a coordinated manner along the workstations of a ring spinning machine. The operating component may be configured as a multi-axis robotic arm. If only a single operating component exists, it performs multiple functions within the scope of the service operation (e.g., in the context of splicing processes: positioning yarn, guiding / replacing yarn along the workstation, etc.). If multiple operating components exist, each operating component performs at least one function within the scope of the service operation.

[0018] Within the scope of this invention, the camera is a commercially available camera for generating dynamic image data and / or still image data. In one embodiment of the invention, this may be a high-speed camera. The camera may be mounted in or on the housing of a maintenance device. The camera should be positioned such that its field of view preferably captures either the entire workstation of the ring spinning machine or at least a portion of the workstation under illumination. Furthermore, the camera may magnify specific portions of the workstation, spinning component, or relevant parts of the spinning component. Relevant areas of the spinning component are those parts susceptible to contamination, wear, or damage, thereby increasing the risk of yarn breakage or the need for repair. The resulting stoppage of the ring spinning machine's workstation reduces the efficiency of the ring spinning machine and, as previously mentioned, should be avoided.

[0019] The image data within the scope of this invention is preferably dynamic image data generated by a camera in the form of video or photographs, but it can also be static image data.

[0020] The evaluation device is a computer (general-purpose computer) equipped with a processor (complex CPU), persistent memory and working memory, and a (freely programmable) interface for the camera (e.g., camera serial interface or USB). Furthermore, the evaluation device includes data transmission lines (serial or parallel USB cables, network cables, buses) extending from the interface on the computer to the control unit of the maintenance device. Alternatively, image data can also be transmitted wirelessly. The persistent memory stores the operating system and software for automatic image recognition (image recognition methods), as well as the image data (if applicable). The software is configurable / parameterizable / trainable.

[0021] Advantageously, at least one lighting element can be positioned on the maintenance device such that at least one operating element of the maintenance device is also illuminated therefrom. Thus, the lighting element additionally illuminates at least one operating element of the maintenance device. By illuminating at least a portion of the workstation of the ring spinning machine and at least one operating element of the maintenance device, the camera is able to capture images before, during, and / or after service operations, clearly showing at least one operating element. By illuminating at least one operating element, the camera can see, for example, whether the yarn (or possibly a replacement yarn) is actually located within at least one operating element and is thereby guided along the spinning station.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light color of at least one illumination element can be varied. The at least one illumination element includes different, selectable light colors. This provides the advantage that different objects can be presented more clearly and distinguishably. The available colors span the entire color spectrum—from ultraviolet (UV) to infrared (IR). For example, using UV light to detect fly ash buildup or to trace the path of white yarn has proven advantageous. The use of different colors has a positive effect on the quality of condition detection and therefore on the quality of evaluation. The light color can be freely selected.

[0023] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if at least one lighting element includes different, selectable brightness levels. This also has a positive effect: different states become easier for at least one camera to distinguish, thus making the evaluation more accurate. Brightness can be measured in lumens, watts, or Kelvin and selected accordingly.

[0024] To further optimize condition detection and assessment, it has proven advantageous to equip at least one camera with multiple electronically adjustable color filters. For example, it has been shown that white yarn is easier to distinguish when no infrared color filter is used. Depending on the specific implementation, these color filters may also encompass the entire color spectrum.

[0025] In summary, the more detailed and accurate the camera recordings, the higher the quality of condition detection and assessment.

[0026] Advantageously, the maintenance device includes a data transmission component for transmitting the evaluated image data from the evaluation device to the control unit.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the main structure of the maintenance device is configured to be at least partially open towards the workstation of the ring spinning machine in a positioned state located in front of the workstation. This is particularly advantageous when the main structure is constructed in the form of a housing. This configuration provides the possibility of operating the workstation of the ring spinning machine or performing service operations by means of at least one operating member. Furthermore, this arrangement allows for the illumination of a portion of the workstation, the spinning component, or the entire workstation to ensure optimal conditions for camera recording. In this context, at least one illumination member may be positioned on the main structure of the maintenance device in the area of ​​the workstation facing the ring spinning machine, such that both at least one operating member and at least a portion of the workstation are illuminated. It is entirely possible that the illumination member is positioned such that only at least one portion of the workstation is illuminated, while a second illumination member is positioned within the maintenance device (e.g., on the rear wall of the housing of the maintenance device) such that at least one operating member is illuminated. Regardless of the number of illumination members present / positioned, care must be taken to ensure that no shadows are cast on the portion of the workstation to be detected (including the yarn path) relative to the camera's field of view; otherwise, condition detection and thus evaluation will be negatively affected. During the process of this method, the position of at least one camera and the position of at least one lighting component can be changed / controlled. Corresponding components are provided within the scope of this invention.

[0028] Furthermore, the object of the present invention is achieved by a method for performing condition detection and evaluation of a workstation and / or maintenance device of a ring spinning machine using a maintenance device according to the present invention, wherein the method includes the following steps, and wherein the method steps are partially parallel:

[0029] - Position the maintenance device in front of the workstation on the ring spinning machine that requires service operation.

[0030] - Illuminate at least one section of the workstation requiring service operation of the ring spinning machine.

[0031] - Generate image data before, during, and / or after the service operation.

[0032] -Transfer image data to the evaluation unit

[0033] -Evaluate image data in the evaluation unit

[0034] - Use assessment units to classify assessment results

[0035] - Commands are generated based on the classification of the assessment results and transmitted to the control unit of the maintenance device.

[0036] In the context of this invention, the method for performing status detection essentially enables monitoring of workstations and / or maintenance devices before, during, and / or after service operations. In this process, the status of moving and stationary spinning components (including the yarn to be processed) at the workstation of the ring spinning machine is detected, and, according to an embodiment, the status of at least one operating component of the maintenance device is detected. Possible statuses include: presence / absence, open / closed, contaminated / clean, correct / incorrect positioning, correct operation / improper operation, etc.

[0037] As a first step, this requires precisely positioning the maintenance device in front of the workstation on the ring spinning machine that requires servicing. The need to perform a servicing operation is typically determined by the ring spinning machine's machine controller (e.g., the ISM notifies the machine controller; the machine controller summons the maintenance device). Alternatively, this can be initiated by the operator or a third party.

[0038] The positioning of the workstation in front of the ring spinning machine—usually centered relative to the spindle axis—is controlled by the control unit of the maintenance device.

[0039] Once the maintenance device has reached the desired position in front of the ring spinning machine's workstation, at least one partial area, or alternatively the entire workstation, is illuminated by means of at least one lighting component of the maintenance device. Then, at least one camera is activated to generate image data. The camera, or its field of view, can detect a specific partial area of ​​the ring spinning machine's workstation (e.g., the illuminated area), which can optionally be magnified by the camera. Detecting the entire workstation within the camera's field of view is also feasible. Depending on the camera's position within the maintenance device, at least one operating component of the maintenance device will also be detected.

[0040] The generated image data is transmitted directly or via a data transmission line to an evaluation device, where the image data is evaluated.

[0041] Image recognition software is provided for evaluating image data. The software is essentially based on comparing the actual state of a corresponding area of ​​the workstation, a spinning component, or the entire workstation with a target state. First, this comparison is performed by an expert and input into the software (generating expert knowledge); subsequently, as the amount of images and evaluations increases, the software undergoes training, enabling it to automatically identify the state of specific areas of the workstation or spinning components, and also to detect faults (e.g., defective spinning components, incorrect execution of service operations, or defective operating parts). For this purpose, methods such as machine learning (e.g., deep learning algorithms such as neural networks) are used.

[0042] The assessment result describes the state of an object (e.g., a spinning component [including the yarn to be processed], a portion of a ring spinning machine workstation, the entire ring spinning machine workstation, or an operating component of a maintenance device) detected by a camera or its field of view at the time t when the image data is generated (before, during, and / or after the service operation); specifically, the assessment result indicates whether the object is in the target state, or in layman's terms: whether there is a problem.

[0043] If the target state is not met or is otherwise met, the result is classified, resulting in a corresponding command being issued to the control unit of the maintenance device.

[0044] Examples include:

[0045] If no yarn is visible in the traveler before the operation is performed (=Status), then yarn breakage has been confirmed (=Classification). The resulting command is: "Continue monitoring / processing".

[0046] In subsequent process steps, still prior to the service operation, additional image data is generated and transmitted to an evaluation unit, which assesses and classifies whether all conditions for a successful joint process are met, or whether a maintenance task is required at the workstation (e.g., performed by a maintenance device). Depending on the specific implementation, image data of the operating components from the maintenance device is also generated and transmitted during this process. Therefore, the evaluation produces, for example, the following state:

[0047] - The presence or absence of contaminants on the drafting system (upper or lower roller, or cylinder), yarn guide hooks, air ring control rings, travelers, spindle brakes, suction system, or compressed air system.

[0048] -The presence or absence of roving

[0049] - Whether the stretching system unit / lever is closed or not.

[0050] -The presence or absence of bobbins or yarn tubes

[0051] -The presence or absence of the wire ring

[0052] -The presence or absence of a spindle brake

[0053] -The spindle is rotating correctly or incorrectly.

[0054] -The presence or absence of contaminants on the operating components

[0055] In the context of this invention, contaminants include residual yarn, yarn entanglement around rotating and non-rotating spinning components, fly waste, etc.

[0056] In the evaluation unit, these states are categorized as "service operation feasible," "maintenance task required," or "inoperable." This categorization serves as the basis for issuing corresponding commands to the control unit of the maintenance device, for example:

[0057] - Perform service operations

[0058] - Perform maintenance tasks (e.g., "clean the yarn guide hook" or "clean the operating components").

[0059] -Evacuation from the workstation

[0060] Additionally, information regarding the need for maintenance tasks that cannot be performed by the maintenance equipment can be transmitted to the ring spinning machine. This maintenance task is then performed by the operator or by a suitable dedicated unit.

[0061] If the command "Execute service operation" is issued, the service operation is performed in subsequent process steps, and during the service operation, additional image data is generated and transmitted to the evaluation unit. Typically, image data regarding the operating components of the maintenance device is also generated and transmitted during this process. Examples of possible states include:

[0062] - Whether the operating components are being used correctly or incorrectly;

[0063] -The yarn may or may not be held by the operating mechanism.

[0064] -The presence or absence of roving supply

[0065] - Re-contamination of the drafting system (upper roller or lower roller, or cylinder)

[0066] - The trajectory of at least one operating component is correct or incorrect.

[0067] -The spindle is rotating correctly or incorrectly.

[0068] -wait.

[0069] These identified statuses provide information on whether yarn breaks have been successfully repaired, and / or whether at least one operating component requires maintenance (including changes to the control procedures for performing splicing processes on the maintenance device or at least one operating component), and / or whether the workstation (a portion of the workstation or a spinning component) requires further maintenance.

[0070] In the evaluation unit, these states are categorized as "performing service operations", "requiring maintenance tasks", "unable to operate", etc.

[0071] This classification serves as the basis for corresponding commands issued to the control unit of the maintenance device, for example:

[0072] - Perform service operations

[0073] - Perform maintenance tasks (e.g., "clean the yarn guide hooks" or "adjust the control program").

[0074] -Evacuation from the workstation

[0075] - Send notification to the ring spinning machine

[0076] During this phase, i.e., during service operation, the method specifies, for example, that at least one operating component is controlled based on the evaluation results. In this way, the trajectory of at least one operating component can be determined in real time; for example, based on the evaluation results, the exact position of the roving within the drafting system is known, thereby allowing the trajectory of at least one operating component to be adjusted so that the yarn guiding operating component directly aims at the roving and places the yarn at the roving for splicing.

[0077] If the maintenance device remains at the spinning station, that is, after the service operation is performed, image data continues to be generated and transmitted to the evaluation unit, where the image data is evaluated.

[0078] After performing a service operation (or, where applicable, a maintenance task), the following status can be determined, for example:

[0079] -The yarn / fiber composite travels through the entire spinning station or does not travel through it.

[0080] - The presence or absence of contaminants on the drafting system (upper or lower roller, or cylinder), yarn guide hooks, air ring control rings, travelers, spindle brakes, suction system, or compressed air system.

[0081] -The presence or absence of roving supply

[0082] - Whether the stretching system unit / lever is closed or not.

[0083] - The wire loop is rotating correctly or incorrectly on the ring.

[0084] -The spindle is rotating correctly or incorrectly.

[0085] -The operating components of the maintenance device are functioning normally or malfunctioning.

[0086] -The operating components of the maintenance device are contaminated or uncontaminated.

[0087] -wait.

[0088] These statuses provide information on whether the service operation was successfully performed, as well as indications of whether further maintenance tasks are required or whether another yarn breakage is expected. Furthermore, based on the assessment status of the workstation and / or maintenance equipment, strategies for subsequent service operations can be developed—for example, adjusting the trajectory of at least one operating component accordingly in the event of yarn guide hook misalignment.

[0089] The classification of states at this time includes, for example:

[0090] - Service operation completed successfully

[0091] -Maintenance required

[0092] - Spinning components need to be replaced.

[0093] - Workstations are prone to errors

[0094] This produces, for example, the following commands:

[0095] -Evacuation from the workstation

[0096] - Perform maintenance tasks

[0097] - Send a notification to the machine controller of the ring spinning machine

[0098] When a notification is sent to the machine controller of the ring spinning machine, the notification triggers further operational actions, such as monitoring the workstation (so that the maintenance device passes through the workstation more frequently) or initiating a spare parts order through the maintenance system.

[0099] Advantageously, the method specifies that the step of illuminating at least a portion of the workstation additionally includes illuminating at least one operating component of the maintenance device. In this way, the generated images of the portion of the workstation and the operating component are ensured to be of high quality, thereby contributing to the quality of condition detection and assessment. If multiple lighting components are used, each illuminating only a portion of the workstation and maintenance device, shadows may be cast, resulting in blurry or poorly detailed image data from objects detected by the camera's field of view, thus negatively impacting condition detection and assessment. The lighting must accordingly prevent this, which can be achieved by means of the maintenance device according to the invention (see the pivotable arrangement of the lighting components, which can be controlled by the control unit of the maintenance device).

[0100] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the lighting method steps include adjusting the optional light color and / or brightness. As previously mentioned, different light colors and / or brightness levels make different objects within the camera's field of view more clearly visible. In this way, high-quality image data about the desired object (a portion of the workstation, the spinning component, the operating mechanism) can be generated, thereby achieving the best possible evaluation.

[0101] The method according to one embodiment offers a further advantage, wherein the method steps for generating image data include adjusting a color filter for at least one camera. Different objects are detected by the camera depending on the color filter. This depends not only on the color and brightness of the light but also on the selected color filter. Within the scope of the invention, adjusting the color filter can also mean completely discarding all color filters.

[0102] Advantageously, the method includes additional method steps of generating commands to the control unit of the maintenance device and / or the machine controller of the ring spinning machine based on the classification status. The nature of the commands has been explained. Attached Figure Description

[0103] Other advantages of the present invention are described in the following embodiments:

[0104] Figure 1 An embodiment of the maintenance device according to the invention is illustrated schematically; and

[0105] Figure 2 The basic method steps for performing state detection are schematically illustrated; and

[0106] Figure 3 An embodiment of the method for performing state detection according to the present invention is illustrated schematically; and

[0107] Figure 4 Another embodiment of the method for performing state detection according to the present invention is illustrated schematically; and

[0108] Figure 5 A third embodiment of the method for performing state detection according to the present invention is illustrated schematically.

[0109] Figure 1 An embodiment of the maintenance device 1 according to the invention is schematically shown. A plurality of operating components 3 are attached to a main structure 2, which is in the form of a housing opening toward the workstation. The purpose of the operating components 3 is to perform service operations at the workstation of the ring spinning machine and, where applicable, maintenance tasks. Furthermore, the maintenance device 1 includes a control unit 4, an illumination component 5, a camera 6, an evaluation device 7, and a data transmission component 8. The control unit 4 is used to control the maintenance device 1 and to control the operating components 3 used to perform service operations and / or maintenance tasks. The illumination component 5 is used to illuminate both the workstation of the ring spinning machine requiring service operations or its components (including yarn), and, according to a specific embodiment, also the operating components 3 of the maintenance device 1. Figure 1As can be seen, the lighting component 5 is positioned in the upper rear region of the main structure 2 of the maintenance device 1, so that both the workstation and the operating component 3 can be illuminated, and the camera 6 arranged adjacent to (or near) the lighting component 5 illuminates all components of the ring spinning machine workstation (not shown here) and the operating component 3 of the maintenance device 1.

[0110] Figure 2 The basic method steps according to the present invention for detecting and evaluating the condition of a workstation and / or maintenance device 1 of a ring spinning machine using the maintenance device 1 according to the invention are schematically illustrated in flowchart form. In the first step, the maintenance device 1, which has been summoned to the workstation of the ring spinning machine (by the ISM, by the central controller, etc.) to perform a service operation, is precisely positioned (e.g., centered in front of the spindle axis of the workstation) in front of the workstation of the ring spinning machine. During the positioning process itself or after the maintenance device 1 has been positioned, at least a portion of the workstation requiring service operation and / or at least one operating component 3 of the maintenance device 1 is illuminated by an illumination component 5 by means of one of selected different light colors and one of selected different light brightness levels. Subsequently, for example, after a particular color filter has been (preferably electronically) adjusted, image data is generated by a camera 6. The data may be generated before, during, and / or after the service operation is performed. The generated image data is transmitted directly or via data transmission component 8 to evaluation unit 7, where the image data is evaluated using image recognition software. The result describes the state of the object detected by the camera or its field of view at time t and determines whether the target state is met. Subsequently, classification is performed. The evaluation result is now classified. This classification is performed using machine learning methods and describes the nature of the fault (i.e., if the target state is not met) or confirms that the target state is met; based on this, one or more commands are generated for the control unit of the maintenance device. If applicable, the command (or additional command) is also transmitted to the ring spinning machine or its central controller. According to the invention, all or individual steps can be repeated or performed simultaneously; for example, the illumination of the workstation and the generation of image data can occur simultaneously, as evaluation, classification, and command generation can be performed while at least one operating component of the workstation and / or maintenance device remains illuminated and image data continues to be generated. Once a command has been generated, the maintenance device can be withdrawn from the workstation (which constitutes the corresponding command), or the steps of illumination, image data generation, evaluation, classification, and command generation can be repeated.

[0111] Figure 3Another embodiment of the method according to the invention is also illustrated in flowchart form. In this embodiment, the maintenance device is also precisely positioned in front of the workstation of the ring spinning machine requiring a service operation (here: repairing yarn breakage / splitting). During or after positioning, the workstation or a portion thereof and / or at least one operating component of the maintenance device is illuminated by means of an illumination component. As mentioned, different colors and brightness levels of the illumination component are optional. Before the service operation begins, image data capturing at least a portion of the workstation (and optionally, at least one operating component of the maintenance device) is generated. The image data is transmitted to an evaluation unit, where it is evaluated. If, for example, it is determined that the target state is not met (in this case: the yarn is not traveling along the workstation of the ring spinning machine), the evaluation result is classified accordingly. Thus, for example, if the yarn is not visible in the traveler before the service operation is performed (=state), it is confirmed that a yarn breakage has occurred (=classification). This makes the generation command "repeat from the following steps: generate image data before performing the service operation." However, if the yarn is seen in the loop (=state) before performing the service operation, for example, this should be classified as "no service operation required," and the generation command "leaves the spinning position."

[0112] Figure 4 Another embodiment of the method according to the invention is also shown in flowchart form. This embodiment is described starting with the step of generating image data during a service operation. A maintenance device has been positioned in front of the workstation; the presence of a yarn break has been confirmed, and the conditions for a successful splicing process have also been confirmed; at least a portion of the workstation and / or at least one operating component of the maintenance device is illuminated; and a service operation is being performed (e.g., repairing a yarn break / sponge). During the service operation, image data of a portion of the workstation and / or at least one operating component 3 of the maintenance device 1 is generated. For example, the following states can be evaluated by the evaluation unit 7:

[0113] - Whether the operating components are being used correctly or incorrectly;

[0114] -The yarn may or may not be held by the operating mechanism.

[0115] -The presence or absence of roving supply

[0116] - Re-contamination of the drafting system (upper roller or lower roller, or cylinder)

[0117] - The trajectory of at least one operating component is correct or incorrect.

[0118] -The spindle is rotating correctly or incorrectly.

[0119] -wait.

[0120] These states are categorized in evaluation unit 7, and for example, cause the generation command to “perform maintenance tasks”—if such work is necessary and can be performed by the maintenance device itself (e.g., correcting the trajectory of at least one operating component; removing contaminants)—or generate the command to “repeat the following steps: generate image data after performing service operations.”

[0121] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the method according to the invention is also shown in flowchart form. Following the service operation, according to this embodiment, image data of a portion of the workstation of the spinning station and / or at least one operating component of the maintenance device can be generated. The image data transmitted to the evaluation device is evaluated to determine, for example, the following states:

[0122] -The yarn / fiber composite travels through the entire spinning station or does not travel through it.

[0123] - The presence or absence of contaminants on the drafting system (upper or lower roller, or cylinder), yarn guide hooks, air ring control rings, travelers, spindle brakes, suction system, or compressed air system.

[0124] -The presence or absence of roving supply

[0125] - Whether the stretching system unit / lever is closed or not.

[0126] - The wire loop is rotating correctly or incorrectly on the ring.

[0127] -The spindle is rotating correctly or incorrectly.

[0128] -The operating components of the maintenance device are functioning normally or malfunctioning.

[0129] -The operating components of the maintenance device are contaminated or uncontaminated.

[0130] These statuses provide information on whether the service operation was successfully performed, as well as indications of whether further maintenance tasks are required or whether another yarn breakage is expected. Furthermore, based on the assessment status of the workstation and / or maintenance equipment, strategies for subsequent service operations can be developed—for example, adjusting the trajectory of at least one operating component accordingly in the event of yarn guide hook misalignment.

[0131] The classification of states at this time includes, for example:

[0132] - Service operation completed successfully

[0133] -Maintenance required

[0134] - Spinning components need to be replaced.

[0135] - Workstations are prone to errors

[0136] Based on this, and according to the illustrated implementation scheme, the following commands are generated:

[0137] -Evacuation from the workstation

[0138] - Perform maintenance tasks

[0139] If applicable, the command "Execute maintenance task" is transmitted to the ring spinning machine (or its controller) to summon an additional maintenance device or to stop the maintenance device the next time it passes the relevant spinning position.

[0140] This invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described. Modifications within the scope of the claims and any combination of the described features are possible, provided they do not contradict the teachings of the independent claims, even if they are shown and described in different parts of the specification or claims or in different embodiments.

Claims

1. A maintenance device for performing service operations on a workstation of a ring spinning machine, wherein... - The maintenance device includes a main structure, wherein at least one operating component and a control unit are attached to the main structure, and wherein - The maintenance device includes at least one lighting component for illuminating at least a portion of the workstation of the ring spinning machine to which service operations are to be performed; and wherein - The maintenance device includes at least one camera, which can be positioned on the main structure of the maintenance device to generate image data of both the at least one partial area of ​​the workstation and the operating components of the maintenance device; and wherein The maintenance device also includes an evaluation device for evaluating the image data generated by the camera.

2. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one lighting component can be positioned on the maintenance device such that at least one operating component of the maintenance device is illuminated.

3. The maintenance device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one lighting component includes different, selectable light colors.

4. The maintenance device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one lighting component includes different, selectable brightness levels.

5. The maintenance device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one camera is equipped with a plurality of electronically adjustable color filters.

6. The maintenance device according to claim 1, wherein the maintenance device includes a data transmission component for transmitting the evaluated image data from the evaluation device to the control unit.

7. The maintenance device of claim 1, wherein the housing of the maintenance device is configured to be at least partially open toward the workstation of the ring spinning machine in a positioning state located in front of the workstation of the ring spinning machine.

8. A method for performing condition detection and evaluation of a workstation and / or maintenance device for a ring spinning machine using the maintenance device according to claims 1 to 7, wherein the method comprises the following steps, and the method steps are partially parallel: - Position the maintenance device in front of the workstation on the ring spinning machine that requires service operation. - Illuminate at least a portion of the workstation of the ring spinning machine that requires service operation. - Generate image data before, during, and / or after performing the service operation. - Transmit the image data to the evaluation unit - Evaluate the image data in the evaluation unit - The evaluation results are classified using the evaluation unit. - Generate commands based on the classification of the evaluation results.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the method step of illuminating the at least one partial area of ​​the workstation further includes illuminating the at least one operating component of the maintenance device.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the illumination method step includes adjusting the optional light color and / or the light intensity.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the method step of generating image data includes adjusting the color filter of the at least one camera.

12. The method of claim 8, wherein the method includes an additional method step of generating commands to the control unit of the maintenance device or the machine controller of the ring spinning machine based on the classification status.

Images