Spinning machine, storage amount calculating device, and storage amount calculating method

Abstract

The spinning machine, accumulation amount calculation device, and accumulation amount calculation method of the present invention can automatically calculate the accumulation amount of additives and implement the device therein in existing additive supply devices. The spinning machine (100) includes a spinning unit (1), an additive supply device (6), an imaging device (71), and an information processing unit (43). The spinning unit (1) generates and winds up yarn (Y). The additive supply device (6) has an accumulation tank (63) and supplies additives to the spinning unit (1). The accumulation tank (63) stores additives and is transparent or semi-transparent. The imaging device (71) takes pictures of the accumulation tank (63) from the outside. The information processing unit (43) calculates accumulation amount information related to the accumulation amount of additives in the accumulation tank (63) based on the image of the accumulation portion obtained by the imaging device (71) taking pictures of the accumulation tank (63).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a spinning machine that winds yarn to produce a package, a quantity calculation device for calculating the quantity of additives used in the spinning machine, and a quantity calculation method for calculating the quantity of additives used in the spinning machine. Background Technology

[0002] Spinning machines are known to have a spinning unit that twists fiber bundles to generate yarn and winds the generated yarn into a package. The spinning unit is equipped with an air-jet spinning device that uses air to twist the fiber bundles to generate yarn. For example, when using an air-jet spinning device to twist fiber bundles such as polyester fibers that have been coated with an oil to generate yarn, there is a problem that the oil adheres to and accumulates inside the air-jet spinning device. To prevent this, an additive that prevents the accumulation of oil is supplied to the interior of the air-jet spinning device (for example, see Japanese Patent JP2012-97391A). Summary of the Invention

[0003] The problem that the invention aims to solve Additives are supplied from an additive supply device to the air-jet spinning unit. The additive supply device has a storage section for storing additives. When the amount of additive in the storage section decreases, it is necessary to replenish the storage section with additives. Therefore, the amount of additive in the storage section is monitored in the spinning machine. Conventionally, the operator visually confirmed the amount of additive in the storage section by checking the liquid level of the additive stored in the transparent or semi-transparent storage section from the outside.

[0004] In the aforementioned visual verification process, operators need to go to the location of the spinning machine and visually check the additive storage area, estimate the amount of additive stored based on the visual liquid level, and record this data. This task is a significant burden for operators. To alleviate this burden, a device that automatically calculates the amount of additive stored in the storage area is desired. Furthermore, it is desirable that this device can be integrated into existing additive supply systems already installed on the spinning machine.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to automatically and accurately calculate the amount of additive in the storage section, and to install the device for calculating the amount of additive in an existing additive supply device.

[0006] Methods for solving problems The following sections will explain several methods as means to solve the problem. These methods can be combined arbitrarily as needed.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention relates to a spinning machine comprising a spinning unit, an additive supply device, an imaging unit, and an information processing unit. The spinning unit generates and winds yarn. The additive supply device has a storage section that supplies additive to the spinning unit. The storage section stores the additive and is transparent or semi-transparent. The imaging unit takes pictures of the storage section from the outside. The information processing unit calculates storage quantity information related to the storage quantity of additive in the storage section based on the image of the storage section obtained by the imaging unit.

[0008] In the aforementioned spinning machine, an imaging unit captures images of the storage section where additives can accumulate. An information processing unit then calculates storage quantity information related to the amount of additives stored in the storage section based on the image of the storage section obtained from the image. In this way, the imaging unit can automatically acquire images of the storage section obtained from the image, and the information processing unit can automatically and accurately calculate storage quantity information related to the amount of additives stored based on these images.

[0009] Furthermore, the imaging unit can be installed at any location that allows for external imaging of the storage unit. Therefore, it eliminates the need for modifications to the internal structure of the storage unit or major alterations to the additive supply device to accommodate the imaging unit. Since no changes to the internal structure of the storage unit or major modifications to the additive supply device are required, the imaging unit can be easily installed even with existing additive supply devices.

[0010] The aforementioned spinning machine may also include a storage unit. The storage unit may also store storage quantity association information, which links the storage quantity information to the time when the storage quantity information was acquired. Furthermore, the information processing unit may determine the status of the additive supply device based on the storage quantity association information.

[0011] The inventors have discovered that the state of the additive supply device affects the change in the accumulation amount over time. In the aforementioned spinning machine, the state of the additive supply device can be determined using the aforementioned properties of the accumulation amount correlation information (i.e., information representing the change in the accumulation amount over time).

[0012] The aforementioned spinning machine may also include a moving pipe and a pressure adjustment unit. The moving pipe moves the additive supplied from the additive supply device to the spinning unit. The pressure adjustment unit adjusts the pressure of the storage unit. The information processing unit can also determine the set state of the pressure difference between the storage unit and the moving pipe as the state of the additive supply device.

[0013] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the setting state of the pressure difference between the storage section and the moving piping can be determined based on the storage volume correlation information, thereby determining whether the additive has been appropriately supplied to the spinning unit.

[0014] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the information processing unit can also determine the state of the pressure adjustment unit as the state of the additive supply device. In the aforementioned spinning machine, the state of the pressure adjustment unit can be determined based on the accumulated quantity correlation information, thereby determining whether the additive is being appropriately supplied to the spinning unit.

[0015] The aforementioned spinning machine may also include a pressure difference measuring unit. This unit measures the pressure difference between the moving piping and the storage section. The information processing unit can also determine the status of the additive supply device based on storage volume correlation information and the pressure difference measured by the pressure difference measuring unit.

[0016] In the aforementioned spinning machine, for example, if the pressure difference measurement result of the pressure difference measuring unit is normal but an anomaly is found in the storage volume correlation information, more detailed information can be obtained, such as the improper supply of additives to the spinning unit due to reasons other than the pressure difference between the moving pipe and the storage unit.

[0017] In the aforementioned spinning machine, a first identifier positioned near a first reference position of the storage section and a second identifier positioned near a second reference position of the storage section may also be provided in the storage section. In this case, the imaging unit may also image the storage section by including both the first and second identifiers.

[0018] In the aforementioned spinning machine, it is easy to determine which position in the image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage section is the first reference position and the second reference position of the storage groove. Therefore, information processing can be performed on the image to calculate the appropriate storage amount information.

[0019] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the information processing unit can also calculate the storage quantity information based on the position of the first boundary in the storage section image, which represents the first part where additives are stored in the storage section and the second part where additives are not stored in the storage section.

[0020] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the storage volume information can be accurately calculated based on the position of the first boundary between the first part and the second part of the storage section image.

[0021] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the brightness change can also occur at the first boundary. In the aforementioned spinning machine, the brightness change of the first and second portions generated at the first boundary can be used to accurately calculate the storage volume information based on the storage portion image.

[0022] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the first portion of the image of the storage section may also have a second boundary with varying brightness. In this case, the information processing unit may also calculate state information related to the state of the additive stored in the storage section based on the second boundary.

[0023] In the aforementioned spinning machine, based on a second boundary with a brightness variation at the location where the additive is stored, the state information of the additive stored in the storage area can be accurately calculated.

[0024] The aforementioned spinning machine may also include a light source. The light source is positioned on the same outer wall side as the storage section where the imaging device is located, and illuminates the storage section. In this case, the imaging device can also image the storage section by detecting the reflected light from the light source after it has been reflected off the outer wall of the storage section.

[0025] In the aforementioned spinning machine, by using an imaging device to detect the reflected light after the light from the light source is reflected off the outer wall of the accumulation tank, it is possible to obtain, for example, an image of the accumulation section that clearly shows the state of the additive stored in the accumulation section.

[0026] Other embodiments of the present invention involve an accumulation quantity calculation device comprising an imaging unit and an information processing unit. The imaging unit captures an image of a transparent or semi-transparent accumulation portion from the outside, the accumulation portion storing additives supplied to a spinning unit that generates and winds yarn. The information processing unit calculates accumulation quantity information related to the accumulation quantity of additives in the accumulation portion based on the image of the accumulation portion obtained by the imaging unit capturing the accumulation portion.

[0027] In the aforementioned storage volume calculation device, an imaging unit photographs the storage section capable of storing additives, and an information processing unit calculates storage volume information related to the storage volume of additives in the storage section based on the image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage section. In this way, the imaging unit can automatically acquire an image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage section, and the information processing unit can automatically and accurately calculate storage volume information related to the storage volume of additives based on this image.

[0028] Furthermore, the imaging unit can be installed at any location that allows for external imaging of the storage unit. Therefore, it eliminates the need for modifications to the internal structure of the storage unit or major alterations to the additive supply device to accommodate the imaging unit. Since no changes to the internal structure of the storage unit or major modifications to the additive supply device are required, the imaging unit can be easily installed even with existing additive supply devices.

[0029] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for calculating the accumulated amount, comprising the following steps.

[0030] (a) The step of photographing a transparent or translucent storage section from the outside, the storage section storing additives supplied to the spinning unit that generates and winds the yarn.

[0031] (b) A step of calculating the amount of additives in the storage section based on an image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage section.

[0032] In the above-described method for calculating the amount of additive stored, an image of the storage area capable of storing the additive is captured, and based on the image of the storage area obtained by capturing the image, storage amount information related to the amount of additive stored in the storage area is calculated. In this way, an image of the storage area obtained by capturing the image can be automatically acquired, and storage amount information related to the amount of additive stored can be automatically and accurately calculated based on that image.

[0033] Furthermore, in the aforementioned method for calculating the storage volume, the device for photographing the storage section can be positioned at any location where it can be photographed from the outside. Therefore, it is not necessary to modify the internal structure of the storage section or undertake large-scale modifications to the additive supply device to install this device. Since no changes to the internal structure of the storage section or large-scale modifications to the additive supply device are required, the aforementioned device can be easily installed on existing additive supply devices.

[0034] Invention Effects By automatically capturing images of the accumulation section of the additive supplied to the spinning unit from the outside, it is possible to automatically and accurately calculate accumulation information related to the amount of additive accumulated based on the acquired images. Furthermore, there is no need to modify the internal structure of the accumulation section or undertake large-scale modifications to the additive supply device to install the imaging unit; therefore, the imaging unit can be easily installed even with existing additive supply devices. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a spinning machine.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the spinning unit.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the structure of the additive supply mechanism in the first embodiment.

[0038] Figure 4 This is an example of a diagram showing the storage section of a storage tank.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration relationship between the imaging device and the light source in the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 6 This is a diagram representing the information processing structure of the machine's controller.

[0041] Figure 7 It is a flowchart representing the calculation actions for stored quantity information.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a liquid surface image obtained in the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 9 This is an example of a diagram showing the change in brightness along the length of the storage tank in an image taken of the liquid surface.

[0044] Figure 10 This is an example of the brightness variation at different locations in an image taken of the liquid surface.

[0045] Figure 11 This is an example of plotting the correlation information of accumulated quantities on a curve graph.

[0046] Figure 12 This is a graph (Figure 1) showing an example of how the percentage decrease in the accumulated amount changes over a specified period of time.

[0047] Figure 13 This is an example of how the percentage decrease in the accumulated amount changes over a specified period of time (Figure 2).

[0048] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the imaging device and the light source in the second embodiment.

[0049] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a liquid surface image obtained in the second embodiment.

[0050] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the structure of the additive supply mechanism in the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0051] 1. First Implementation Method (1) Spinning machine use Figure 1 The spinning machine 100 is described below. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a spinning machine 100. The spinning machine 100 includes multiple spinning units 1, a splicing trolley 2, a blower box 3, and a machine controller 4. The multiple spinning units 1 are arranged in the X direction. The spinning unit 1 uses a spinning device 12 to spin a fiber bundle T fed from a drafting device 11 to generate yarn Y, and uses a take-up device 13 to take the yarn Y onto a bobbin B to form a package P.

[0052] The splicing carriage 2 is capable of moving in the X direction. In the event of a yarn breakage or yarn severance in any spinning unit 1, the splicing carriage 2 moves towards that spinning unit 1 to perform splicing. The blower box 3 houses suction devices and other equipment used to supply negative pressure to the spinning unit 1 and the splicing carriage 2.

[0053] The machine controller 4 is a computer system consisting of a CPU, storage devices (RAM, ROM, HDD, SSD, etc.), and various interfaces. The machine controller 4 has a display device 41 for displaying various information (e.g., a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, etc.) and an input device 42 for making various settings (e.g., a touch panel, keyboard, operation panel, etc.). Furthermore, the display device 41 and the input device 42 can also be implemented as a display device equipped with a touch panel.

[0054] The machine controller 4 manages the spinning units 1 of the spinning machine 100. Specifically, the machine controller 4 stores setting values ​​input by the user using input devices such as input device 42, and sends these setting values ​​to the controllers of each spinning unit 1. The machine controller 4 performs various information processing related to each spinning unit 1. As described later, the machine controller 4 calculates information related to the amount of additives stored in the storage section (storage amount information).

[0055] (2) Spinning unit The following uses Figure 2 The spinning unit 1 will be described. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of spinning unit 1. Spinning unit 1 has a drafting device 11, a spinning device 12, and a take-up device 13 as its main structure, moving from the upstream side of the fiber bundle T or the yarn Y direction of travel (hereinafter referred to as "yarn travel direction") toward the downstream side.

[0056] The drafting device 11 has four drafting roll pairs in sequence from the upstream side: a rear roll pair 111, a third roll pair 112, an intermediate roll pair 113, and a front roll pair 114. Each roll of the intermediate roll pair 113 is wound with a rubber belt 113c. The four drafting roll pairs are respectively composed of bottom rolls 111a~114a driven by a drive device and top rolls 111b~114b that are driven to rotate.

[0057] The rotational speed of the drafting roller pair is set to increase sequentially along the conveying direction of the yarn S. Thus, the drafting device 11 clamps and conveys the yarn S, which serves as the raw material for the fiber bundle T, using the drafting roller pair, and stretches it to a specified thickness to form the fiber bundle T.

[0058] The spinning device 12 is positioned immediately downstream of the front roller pair 114. The spinning device 12 generates yarn Y by spinning an action of twisting the fiber bundle T after it has been drafted by the drafting device 11. In this embodiment, the spinning device 12 is an air-jet spinning device that uses a twisting airflow to twist the fiber bundle T.

[0059] The take-up device 13 is located downstream of the spinning device 12. The take-up device 13 winds the yarn Y into the bobbin B to form a package P while traversing the yarn Y. The take-up device 13 has a rocker arm 131, a take-up roller 132, and a traversing device 133.

[0060] The cradle arm 131 is supported so as to be able to rotate about the pivot 131a. The cradle arm 131 is able to support the bobbin B (wrap P) used for winding the yarn Y so as to be able to rotate.

[0061] The take-up roller 132 is driven to rotate at a constant speed in a specified direction. The rocker arm 131, by rotating about the support shaft 25a, can make the outer peripheral surface of the bobbin B (wrap P) contact or separate from the take-up roller 132. By making the outer peripheral surface of the bobbin B (wrap P) contact the rotating take-up roller 132, the bobbin B (wrap P) can be driven to rotate in the take-up direction, and the yarn Y is taken onto the outer peripheral surface of the bobbin B (wrap P).

[0062] The traverse device 133 includes a traverse guide 133a capable of guiding the yarn Y. The traverse guide 133a is configured to reciprocate in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the take-up cylinder 132. By reciprocatingly driving the traverse guide 133a while rotating the take-up cylinder 132, the yarn Y can be traversely moved while being wound onto the package P. Alternatively, instead of providing the traverse device 133, a traverse groove can be formed in the take-up cylinder 132, and the yarn Y can be traversely moved using the take-up cylinder 132.

[0063] The spinning unit 1 has a yarn storage device 14. The yarn storage device 14 is disposed between the spinning unit 12 and the take-up unit 13. The yarn storage device 14 has a storage roller 141, a yarn hanging component 142 and a motor 143.

[0064] The accumulation roller 141 is configured to wind a certain amount of yarn Y around its outer circumference and temporarily accumulate it. The accumulation roller 141 is driven to rotate by the motor 143. At this time, the yarn hanging component 142 rotates integrally with the accumulation roller 141 in the state of hooking the yarn Y, thereby accumulating the yarn Y on the accumulation roller 141.

[0065] The yarn storage device 14 pulls the yarn Y out of the spinning device 12 by applying tension to the yarn Y. However, a pair of pull-out rollers, such as a feed roller, may be provided between the spinning device 12 and the yarn storage device 14, and the yarn Y may be pulled out of the spinning device 12 by the pull-out roller pair. In this case, the yarn storage device 14 may be omitted.

[0066] Spinning unit 1 includes a yarn monitoring device 15. The yarn monitoring device 15 is disposed between spinning unit 12 and yarn storage device 14. The yarn monitoring device 15 monitors the state of yarn Y. Specifically, the yarn monitoring device 15 is configured to monitor the thickness and / or presence of foreign objects in the traveling yarn Y using an optical sensor. Thus, the yarn monitoring device 15 can detect abnormalities in the thickness of the yarn Y and / or yarn defects such as the presence of foreign objects in the yarn Y. The yarn monitoring device 15 is not limited to an optical sensor; for example, it can also be a capacitive sensor.

[0067] If a yarn defect is detected in yarn Y by yarn monitoring device 15, spinning unit 1 stops supplying air to spinning device 12, cutting yarn Y by interrupting its generation. Alternatively, a cutter can be placed near yarn monitoring device 15 to cut yarn Y. Or, yarn Y can be cut by stopping the rotation of the rear roller pair 111 of drafting device 11.

[0068] (3) Connecting trolley The splicing carriage 2 will now be described. The splicing carriage 2 can move freely along the X direction. When a yarn breakage or yarn cutting occurs in a spinning unit 1, the splicing carriage 2 moves to that spinning unit 1 to splice the broken yarn Y. The splicing carriage 2 includes a splicing device 20, a suction tube 21, and a suction nozzle 22.

[0069] The suction tube 21 is configured to rotate vertically about axis 21a. By rotating upward, the tip of the suction tube 21 is positioned near the downstream side of the spinning device 12, allowing it to draw in and hold the yarn (upper yarn) Y spun from the spinning device 12. Furthermore, by rotating downward while holding the upper yarn Y spun from the spinning device 12, the suction tube 21 can guide the upper yarn Y toward the splicing device 20.

[0070] The suction nozzle 22 is configured to rotate vertically about axis 22a. By rotating downwards, the front end of the suction nozzle 22 is located near the outer peripheral surface of the package P, enabling it to suck in and hold the yarn (lower yarn) Y pulled out from the package P. Furthermore, by rotating upwards while holding the lower yarn Y pulled out from the package P, the suction nozzle 22 can guide the lower yarn Y toward the splicing device 20.

[0071] When yarn Y breaks, splicing device 20 splices the upper yarn Y on the spinning device 12 side guided by suction tube 21 and the lower yarn Y on the take-up device 13 side guided by suction nozzle 22. Splicing device 20 is, for example, a splicer that forms a splice by twisting the ends of the upper yarn Y and the lower yarn Y together with a twisting airflow. Splicing device 20 is not limited to a splicer; for example, it can be a knotter that connects the upper yarn Y and the lower yarn Y, or a warp connector that connects the upper yarn Y and the lower yarn Y by guiding the lower yarn Y toward the spinning device 12 and restarting the spinning of the spinning device 12.

[0072] (4) Additive supply organizations In the aforementioned spinning unit 1, the spinning apparatus 12 introduces a fiber bundle T into its interior, where it is twisted and rotated to generate yarn Y. When using a fiber bundle T containing oil, such as polyester fiber, as the raw material for yarn Y, the oil applied to the fiber bundle T sometimes adheres to and accumulates inside the spinning apparatus 12. Specifically, the oil applied to the fiber bundle T sometimes adheres to and accumulates at the front end of the spindle of the spinning apparatus 12. If the oil accumulates at the front end of the spindle of the spinning apparatus 12, the rotation of the fiber bundle T is hindered, and the twisting weakens, potentially reducing the quality of yarn Y.

[0073] To prevent this, an anti-accumulation agent is supplied to the interior of the spinning device 12 to prevent oil buildup. This forms a film of the anti-accumulation agent at the front end of the spindle of the spinning device 12, preventing oil buildup at the front end of the spindle. In the following description, the anti-accumulation agent will be referred to as an "additive".

[0074] The following uses Figure 3 The additive supply mechanism of the spinning machine 100, which supplies additives to the interior of the spinning device 12, will be described. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the structure of the additive supply mechanism. The additive supply mechanism includes an air distribution device 5, an additive supply device 6, and a storage volume calculation device 7.

[0075] The air distribution device 5 is a device that moves (transports) the additive supplied from the additive supply device 6 to each spinning unit 1. The air distribution device 5 includes an air pressurization device 50, a first air pipe 51, a first distribution pipe 52, a second air pipe 53, and a second distribution pipe 54. The air pressurization device 50 supplies pressurized gas (air) to the first air pipe 51 and the second air pipe 53. The pressure of the gas supplied from the air pressurization device 50 to the air pipes can be adjusted by a pressure regulating valve 50a.

[0076] The first air pipe 51 extends along the X direction, guiding air from the air delivery device 50 to each spinning unit 1. An on / off valve 51a is provided at the upstream end of the first air pipe 51. The on / off valve 51a allows switching on and off the supply of air to the first air pipe 51.

[0077] The first distribution pipe 52 branches the air flowing through the first air pipe 51 and directs it to the spinning apparatus 12 of each spinning unit 1. The upstream end of the first distribution pipe 52 is connected to the middle of the first air pipe 51, and the downstream end of the first distribution pipe 52 is connected to the interior (nozzle) of the spinning apparatus 12. The flow rate of the air supplied from the first distribution pipe 52 to the spinning apparatus 12 is adjusted by a flow rate regulating valve 52a disposed in the middle of the first distribution pipe 52.

[0078] The second air pipe 53 extends along the X direction, guiding air from the air delivery device 50 to each spinning unit 1. An on / off valve 53a is provided at the upstream end of the second air pipe 53. The on / off valve 53a allows switching on and off the supply of air to the second air pipe 53.

[0079] The second distribution pipe 54 branches the air flowing through the second air pipe 53 and directs it to the spinning apparatus 12 of each spinning unit 1. The upstream end of the second distribution pipe 54 is connected to the middle of the second air pipe 53, and the downstream end of the second distribution pipe 54 is connected to the interior (nozzle) of the spinning apparatus 12. The flow rate of the air supplied from the second distribution pipe 54 to the spinning apparatus 12 can be adjusted by a flow rate regulating valve 54a disposed in the middle of the second distribution pipe 54.

[0080] Alternatively, the first distribution pipe 52 and the second distribution pipe 54 may merge with a designated pipe that is connected to the spinning device 12.

[0081] In this way, the air distribution device 5 can supply air from the air compression device 50 to the spinning device 12 via the first air pipe 51 and / or the second air pipe 53. In the air distribution device 5, the second air pipe 53 may be omitted, or more than three air pipes may be provided.

[0082] The additive supply device 6 is a device for supplying additives to the spinning unit 1. The additive supply device 6 includes an air supply pipe 61, a pressure regulating device 62, a storage tank 63, and an additive supply pipe 64.

[0083] Air supply piping 61 branches the air flowing in the first air piping 51 and directs it towards the pressure regulating device 62. The upstream end of air supply piping 61 connects to the middle of the first air piping 51, and the downstream end of air supply piping 61 connects to the pressure regulating device 62. The flow rate of air supplied to the pressure regulating device 62 via air supply piping 61 can be adjusted by a flow regulating valve 61a located in the middle of air supply piping 61. Furthermore, air supply piping 61 can also be connected to an air compression device 50 to receive air supply from the air compression device 50.

[0084] One end of the pressure regulating device 62 is connected to the air supply pipe 61, and the other end is connected to the storage tank 63. The other end of the pressure regulating device 62 extends to near the bottom of the storage tank 63 and is present in the additive stored in the storage tank 63. The pressure regulating device 62 adjusts the pressure of the air supplied to the storage tank 63, supplying pressurized air to the additive in the storage tank 63.

[0085] The pressure regulating device 62 may be, for example, a pressure boosting valve that pressurizes air by driving a sliding piston. Alternatively, the pressure regulating device 62 may also be, for example, an electric compressor that pressurizes air by driving a motor. The pressure regulating device 62 is connected to the machine controller 4. That is, the machine controller 4 can control the pressure regulating device 62 to adjust the internal pressure of the storage tank 63.

[0086] The storage tank 63 is a container for storing liquid additives. The storage tank 63 is transparent or translucent. Thus, the additives stored inside the storage tank 63 can be visually identified from the outside of the storage tank 63.

[0087] In the storage tank 63, a first identifier 63a is provided near a first reference position in the length direction of the storage tank 63. The first identifier 63a is, for example, an AR code or other identifier. In addition, the first identifier 63a is not limited to an AR code, and can be information that represents identification information such as a QR code (registered trademark) or barcode using graphics, text and / or colors.

[0088] The first reference position could be, for example, the level of the additive in the accumulation tank 63 when a small amount of additive is present. This ensures that even if the operator cannot immediately replenish the additive, the supply of additive can be maintained until the additive supply device 6 stops due to insufficient additive. However, it is not limited to this; the first reference position could be the level of the additive in the accumulation tank 63 when any amount of additive is present.

[0089] In the storage tank 63, a second identifier 63b is provided near a second reference position, which is different from the first reference position, along the length direction of the storage tank 63. The second identifier 63b is, for example, an AR code or other identifier different from the first identifier 63a. Furthermore, the second identifier 63b is not limited to an AR code; it can be information representing identification information such as a QR code (registered trademark), barcode, etc., using graphics, text, and / or colors. Additionally, the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b can be set as different types of information (codes).

[0090] The second reference position could be, for example, the position of the additive surface when the accumulation tank 63 is fully filled with the additive. However, it is not limited to this; the second reference position can be any position different from the first reference position, and can be set to the position of the liquid surface when the accumulation tank 63 is filled with any amount of additive.

[0091] As described below, the imaging device 71 of the accumulation calculation device 7 captures images of the accumulation tank 63 in a manner that includes a first identifier 63a and a second identifier 63b disposed on the accumulation tank 63. Therefore, it is easy to determine which position in the image of the accumulation tank 63 captured by the imaging device 71 is the first reference position and the second reference position of the accumulation tank 63. Furthermore, the number of the first identifier 63a and / or the second identifier 63b can be arbitrary.

[0092] A volume confirmation scale 63c may also be provided on the accumulation tank 63. The scale on the volume confirmation scale 63c is marked along the length of the accumulation tank 63. By determining which scale on the volume confirmation scale 63c the liquid level of the additive stored inside the accumulation tank 63 is closest to, the volume of the additive stored in the accumulation tank 63 can be visually confirmed.

[0093] The additive supply pipe 64 guides the additive stored in the storage tank 63 into the interior of the first air pipe 51. The upstream end of the additive supply pipe 64 is connected to the storage tank 63. The downstream end of the additive supply pipe 64 is connected to the interior of the first air pipe 51. Additionally, a check valve may be provided in the additive supply pipe 64 to prevent flow from the first air pipe 51 to the storage tank 63.

[0094] In this way, the additive supply device 6 can supply the additive stored in the storage tank 63 to each spinning unit 12 via the air distribution device 5 (first air pipe 51). Specifically, firstly, the on / off valve 51a is opened and the on / off valve 53a is closed, thereby generating an airflow inside the first air pipe 51. Then, air with pressure adjusted by the pressure regulating device 62 is supplied to the additive stored inside the storage tank 63. The air supplied to the additive from the pressure regulating device 62 causes the additive to become foamy. The bubbles disintegrate at the surface of the additive. The additive, which becomes mist through the disintegration of the bubbles, fills the interior of the storage tank 63.

[0095] The pressure of the air, adjusted by the pressure regulating device 62, pressurizes the interior of the storage tank 63. Due to the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51, the atomized additive present inside the storage tank 63 is discharged into the first air pipe 51 through the additive supply pipe 64. The additive discharged into the first air pipe 51 is moved to its designated position in each spinning unit 1 by the airflow within the first air pipe 51. In other words, the first air pipe 51 moves the additive supplied from the additive supply device 6 to its designated position in each spinning unit 1.

[0096] Furthermore, by closing the on / off valve 51a and opening the on / off valve 53a, air can be supplied to each spinning unit 12 via the second air piping 53. That is, through the second air piping 53, only air without additives can be supplied to each spinning unit 12.

[0097] The following describes the volume calculation device 7 included in the additive supply mechanism. The volume calculation device 7 calculates volume information related to the volume of additive stored in the storage tank 63. This volume information includes, for example, the volume of additive stored, and whether the volume of additive stored is below a predetermined threshold. The volume calculation device 7 includes an imaging device 71 and a light source 72.

[0098] The imaging device 71 is disposed near the storage tank 63 outside the storage tank 63. The imaging device 71 captures images of the storage tank 63 from the outside. The imaging device 71 is, for example, a camera, a CCD sensor, or other two-dimensional sensor capable of acquiring images of the storage tank 63.

[0099] As described above, the storage tank 63 is transparent or semi-transparent. Furthermore, as will be explained later, the portion of the storage tank 63 containing the additive has a different color (brightness) than the portion without additive. Therefore, by using an image (referred to as a storage area image) obtained by photographing the storage tank 63 with the imaging device 71, the surface of the additive stored in the storage tank 63 can be identified from the outside of the storage tank 63. Specifically, as will be explained later, the boundary portion of the storage area image where the brightness changes abruptly can be identified as the surface of the additive.

[0100] The imaging device 71 is positioned such that it can capture images of the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b disposed in the storage tank 63 when the storage tank 63 is being photographed. That is, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage tank 63 using the imaging device 71 also includes images of the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b. Therefore, it is easy to determine which position in the image of the storage section corresponds to the first reference position and the second reference position of the storage tank. Figure 4 This is an example diagram showing an image of the storage section of the storage slot 63.

[0101] The imaging device 71 is connected to the machine controller 4. The machine controller 4 can issue commands to the imaging device 71 to image the storage tank 63. In addition, the machine controller 4 generates an image of the storage area by receiving input signals from the imaging device 71 to image the storage tank 63. Based on the generated image of the storage area, the machine controller 4 calculates storage amount information related to the amount of additive stored in the storage tank 63.

[0102] Light source 72 illuminates at least the portion of the storage tank 63 captured by imaging device 71. Light source 72 is, for example, a white light source composed of white LED elements. Figure 5 As shown, the light source 72 is disposed on the same outer wall side of the storage tank 63 where the imaging device 71 is disposed. Here, "same outer wall side" means a position on the same side relative to an imaginary line passing through the center of the storage tank 63. Furthermore, the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 are not on this imaginary line. Specifically, the light source 72 is disposed, for example, at a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis of the imaging device 71. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration relationship between the imaging device 71 and the light source 72.

[0103] Specifically, the angle between the optical axis of the light source 72 and the optical axis of the imaging device 71 can be set to the angle at which an image with appropriate contrast is obtained by irradiating the light source 72 with an appropriate amount of light. For example, the angle between the optical axis of the light source 72 and the optical axis of the imaging device 71 can be 90°. However, it is not limited to this; depending on the arrangement of the accumulation tank 63, an angle other than 90° can also be set. That is, in the accumulation calculation device 7, the angle between the optical axis of the light source 72 and the optical axis of the imaging device 71 can also be adjusted.

[0104] By configuring the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 as described above, the imaging device 71 can capture an image of the storage tank 63 by detecting the reflected light from the light source 72 after it has been reflected off the outer wall of the storage tank 63. In the image of the storage section obtained by detecting the reflected light, the bubbling of the additive liquid surface stored in the storage tank 63 is more clearly shown.

[0105] The light source 72 is connected to the machine controller 4. When the machine controller 4 acquires an image of the storage unit through the imaging device 71, it controls the light source 72 to illuminate the storage tank 63.

[0106] The following uses Figure 6 The information processing structure of the body controller 4, which implements the function of calculating the storage volume information, is described. Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the information processing structure of the machine controller 4. The machine controller 4 includes an information processing unit 43 and a storage unit 44. Furthermore, the following description only focuses on the structure that performs the function of calculating information related to the storage volume of the machine controller 4, but the machine controller 4 is capable of performing various information processing tasks related to the management of the spinning machine 100, and storing and managing various types of information.

[0107] The information processing unit 43 comprises a CPU constituting the machine controller 4, various interfaces, and a portion of a storage device, and performs various information processing tasks. The information processing unit 43 executes a calculation program PG stored in the storage unit 44, and calculates storage quantity information related to the amount of additive in the storage tank 63 based on a storage quantity image obtained by the imaging device 71 capturing the storage quantity in the storage tank 63. Furthermore, the information processing unit 43 can determine the status of the additive supply mechanisms (air distribution device 5, additive supply device 6) based on the information related to the calculated storage quantity.

[0108] The storage unit 44 is composed of a storage device that constitutes the machine controller 4, and stores various programs, various parameters related to the spinning machine 100, and various data. Specifically, the storage unit 44 stores the calculation program PG that performs calculations related to the storage volume and the storage volume association information D1.

[0109] The accumulation amount correlation information D1 is information indicating the change in the accumulation amount of additive in the accumulation tank 63 over time. The accumulation amount correlation information D1 is data that records accumulation amount information related to the accumulation amount calculated by the information processing unit 43 and the time when this accumulation amount information was acquired. As described later, the information processing unit 43 can determine the status of the additive supply mechanism based on the change in the accumulation amount of additive over time shown in the accumulation amount correlation information D1.

[0110] In the aforementioned volume calculation device 7, the imaging device 71 takes a photograph of the volume storage tank 63 from the outside. Additionally, the light source 72 illuminates the outer wall of the volume storage tank 63. Therefore, the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 can be positioned on the outside of the volume storage tank 63 within the spinning machine 100. Thus, it is not necessary to modify the internal structure of the volume storage tank 63 or undertake large-scale modifications to the additive supply device 6, etc., to accommodate the imaging device 71 and the light source 72. Since no changes to the internal structure of the volume storage tank 63 or large-scale modifications to the additive supply device 6 are required, the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 (volume calculation device 7) can be easily installed even with the existing additive supply device 6.

[0111] Furthermore, the calculation program PG, which performs the function of calculating the storage volume information, can be executed by the information processing unit of a computer system such as the machine controller 4, which is loaded into the machine controller 4. That is, the machine controller 4 does not need to be significantly modified to execute the calculation program PG.

[0112] (5) Calculation of information related to stock volume The following uses Figure 7 This section explains the calculation of storage quantity information related to the storage quantity of additives in the storage tank 63 performed by the aforementioned storage quantity calculation device 7. Figure 7 It is a flowchart representing the calculation actions for stored quantity information.

[0113] First, an image of the storage section is acquired by externally photographing the storage tank 63 (step S1). Specifically, the information processing unit 43 of the machine controller 4 illuminates the outer surface of the storage tank 63 with light from the light source 72, making the outer surface of the storage tank 63 appropriately bright. Next, the information processing unit 43 instructs the imaging device 71 to photograph the storage tank 63. The information processing unit 43 inputs the signal output by the imaging device 71 photographing the storage tank 63, and acquires the image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage tank 63. The acquired image of the storage section is stored in the storage unit 44 of the machine controller 4.

[0114] By performing step S1 above, it is possible to obtain Figure 4 An image of the storage section including the outer surface of the storage groove 63, as shown. Figure 4As shown, the image captured in the storage tank 63 includes an image of the first identifier 63a and an image of the second identifier 63b.

[0115] like Figure 4 As shown, in the image of the storage section, the storage tank 63 is photographed at an angle relative to the vertical direction. Furthermore, the image of the storage section also includes portions other than the additive portion stored in the storage tank 63, which can be visually confirmed. Therefore, the information processing unit 43 performs prescribed image processing on the image of the storage section to acquire an image (referred to as a liquid level image) that allows visual identification of the additive portion stored in the storage tank 63 (step S2).

[0116] The information processing unit 43 applies a prescribed image correction to the image of the storage section acquired in step S1, thereby correcting the image so that the storage groove 63 is oriented in the vertical direction. This correction can be achieved, for example, by image trapezoidal correction.

[0117] Furthermore, the information processing unit 43 cuts out the portion of the additive stored in the storage tank 63 that can be visually identified from the storage unit image obtained in step S1, as a liquid surface image. Specifically, the information processing unit 43 cuts out an image along the length of the storage tank 63, with one end of the image showing the first identifier 63a and the other end showing the second identifier 63b, as a liquid surface image. On the other hand, along the width of the storage tank 63, the information processing unit 43 cuts out a length corresponding to the width of the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b as a liquid surface image. The cut liquid surface image is stored in the storage unit 44. Moreover, the cutting length of the liquid surface image relative to the width of the storage tank 63 is not limited to the width of the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b, as long as the information processing unit 43 can calculate the storage amount.

[0118] By performing the steps S1~S2 described above, we can obtain Figure 8 An image of the liquid surface as shown. Figure 8 In the image, the liquid level is shown in a transverse manner along the length of the accumulation tank 63. Figure 8 This is an example of an image taken of a liquid surface.

[0119] Figure 9 This indicates how the brightness of each pixel in the image captured on the liquid surface varies along the length of the storage tank 63. Figure 9 The image shows the brightness variations of the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) components of each pixel. Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the brightness variation in an image taken of the liquid surface along the length of the storage tank 63.

[0120] like Figure 9 As shown, in the liquid surface image, the brightness of each pixel varies along the length of the accumulation tank 63. Specifically, in the direction from the second end E2 (corresponding to the upper side of the accumulation tank 63) to the first end E1 (corresponding to the lower side of the accumulation tank 63), from the second end E2 to the first boundary B1, the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) components of the liquid surface image have a moderate level of brightness. Therefore, the area from the second end E2 to the first boundary B1 of the liquid surface image has a dark white color.

[0121] At the first boundary B1, the brightness of the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) components in the liquid surface image increases sharply, and this high brightness continues from the first boundary B1 to near the second boundary B2. Therefore, the liquid surface image from the first boundary B1 to the second boundary B2 has a bright white color.

[0122] Furthermore, near the second boundary B2, the brightness of the red (R), green (G), and blue (B) components in the liquid surface image decreases sharply, and this low brightness state persists from the second boundary B2 to the first end E1. Therefore, the liquid surface image from the second boundary B2 to the first end E1 has a dark, blackish color.

[0123] Based on the above brightness changes, the first portion P1 in the liquid surface image, from the first end E1 (the lower side of the accumulation tank 63) to the first boundary B1, is mainly a dark black color, indicating that additives are accumulated in the accumulation tank 63. On the other hand, the second portion P2, from the first boundary B1 to the second end E2 (the upper side of the accumulation tank 63), is a dark white color, indicating that no additives are accumulated in the accumulation tank 63 (i.e., the accumulation tank 63 is empty).

[0124] Furthermore, the portion from the first boundary B1 to the second boundary B2 in the first part P1 of the liquid surface image has a bright white color, indicating that the state of the additive is different from the other parts of the first part P1 (which have a dark black color). Specifically, the portion from the first boundary B1 to the second boundary B2, which has a bright white color, indicates that the additive is bubbling at the liquid surface. The bright white portion from the first boundary B1 to the second boundary B2 is particularly clear in the image of the storage section obtained by detecting the reflected light from the light source 72 after it is reflected off the outer wall of the storage tank 63 by the imaging device 71. That is, the bright white portion from the first boundary B1 to the second boundary B2 can be clearly captured by detecting the reflected light from the light source 72 after it is reflected off the outer wall of the storage tank 63 by the imaging device 71.

[0125] Furthermore, the white portion between the first boundary B1 and the second boundary B2 is sometimes absent from the liquid surface image. That is, sometimes the second boundary B2 is not present. In this case, the liquid surface image indicates that the additive is not foaming.

[0126] Based on the above, the first boundary B1, which serves as the boundary between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 in the liquid level image, can be identified as the surface of the additive stored in the storage tank 63. Therefore, the amount of additive stored in the storage tank 63 can be accurately calculated by considering the surface of the additive based on the position of the first boundary B1 in the liquid level image. Furthermore, based on the presence or absence of the second boundary B2 in the liquid level image, state information related to the state of the additive stored in the storage tank 63 can be determined; specifically, it can be determined whether foaming occurs on the surface of the additive. Moreover, even if the liquid level does not contain foaming portions, the second boundary B2 can also be considered as the surface of the additive.

[0127] Furthermore, if the second boundary B2 is not observed in the liquid level image, it can be determined, for example, that the additive is not being bubbled by the air from the pressure regulating device 62, and the additive supply mechanism (air distribution device 5, additive supply device 6) is not operating normally. In addition, the operating status of the additive supply mechanism (e.g., when to intentionally stop it, etc.) can be determined by combining the calculation result of the accumulation amount calculated based on the liquid level image.

[0128] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, the brightness variation at various locations along the length of the storage tank 63 in the liquid surface image has a relatively large maximum value PE1 at the first boundary B1 and a relatively large maximum value PE2 at the second boundary B2. Figure 10 The brightness variation shown can be calculated as the absolute value of the difference between the brightness of a pixel at each position in the image captured on the liquid surface and the brightness of a pixel at a position adjacent to that pixel. Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of brightness variations at various locations in an image captured of the liquid surface. Thus, the positions of the first boundary B1 and the second boundary B2 can be determined based on the locations where the maximum values ​​of brightness variations in the captured image of the liquid surface exist. Specifically, the position of the larger maximum value PE1 can be determined as the first boundary B1, and the position of the largest (maximum) maximum value PE2 can be determined as the second boundary B2.

[0129] Furthermore, when there is no foaming on the surface of the additive and only the first boundary B1 exists in the image taken of the surface, the brightness change of the image taken of the surface has a large (maximum) maximum value only at the first boundary B1. That is, when only one large maximum value is observed in the brightness change of the image taken of the surface, it can be determined that there is no foaming of the additive, and the position of this maximum value can be determined as the first boundary B1, that is, the position of the surface of the additive.

[0130] Thus, the liquid level image contains information that can determine the amount of additive accumulated in the accumulation tank 63 (i.e., the first part P1, the second part P2, the first boundary B1, etc.), and information that can determine the state of the additive in the accumulation tank 63 (i.e., the first boundary B1, the second boundary B2, etc.). Therefore, the liquid level image contains information related to the amount of additive accumulated in the accumulation tank 63 (accumulation amount information).

[0131] After acquiring the liquid level images described above, the information processing unit 43 calculates the amount of additive in the storage tank 63 based on the liquid level images obtained by performing steps S1 to S2 (step S3). Specifically, the amount of additive is calculated as follows.

[0132] First, the information processing unit 43 calculates the brightness change of the liquid surface image acquired during steps S1 to S2, as described above. Next, if the information processing unit 43 observes two large maxima in the calculated brightness change, it can determine the position of the smaller of the two maxima (maximum PE1) as the position of the first boundary B1, i.e., the position of the additive's liquid surface. Conversely, if only one large maxima is observed in the brightness change, the position of that maxima can be determined as the position of the additive's liquid surface (i.e., the first boundary B1).

[0133] Furthermore, if two large maxima are observed in the brightness changes of the liquid surface image, the information processing unit 43 can determine that the liquid surface is bubbling due to the additive.

[0134] After determining the position of the additive surface in the liquid level image, the information processing unit 43 calculates the amount of additive stored in the storage tank 63 based on the determined position of the additive surface. Specifically, for example, if the determined position of the liquid surface is set as Y, the position of the first end E1 of the liquid level image is set as Y1, the position of the second end E2 of the liquid level image is set as Y2, the amount of additive stored when the liquid surface is located at the first end E1 is set as A1, and the amount of additive stored when the liquid surface is located at the second end E2 is set as A2, the amount of additive stored can be calculated using the formula {(A2-A1) / (Y2-Y1)}×(Y-Y1)+A1.

[0135] In this way, by performing the above steps S1 to S3, the imaging device 71 can automatically acquire the image of the storage section obtained by taking a picture of the storage tank 63, and the information processing unit 43 can automatically and accurately calculate the storage amount information (i.e., the liquid level image and the storage amount of the additive in the storage tank 63) based on the storage section image.

[0136] After calculating the storage volume, the information processing unit 43 records the calculated storage volume in association with the time when the storage unit image used to calculate the storage volume was acquired (i.e., the time when the storage slot 63 contained in the storage unit image was captured) in the storage volume association information D1 stored in the storage unit 44 (step S4).

[0137] By repeatedly executing steps S1 to S4 at predetermined intervals, the associated storage quantity information D1 for multiple groups recording storage quantity and time can be obtained. If this associated storage quantity information D1 is plotted on a graph with time on the horizontal axis and storage quantity on the vertical axis, then... Figure 11 As shown. Figure 11 As shown, by using the additive stored in the storage tank 63, the amount of additive stored decreases over time. Figure 11 This is an example of plotting the accumulation correlation information D1 on a graph. In this way, by obtaining the accumulation correlation information D1, which links the accumulation amount to time, it is possible to record the change in the accumulation amount of the additive over time.

[0138] (6) Status determination of additive supply device using accumulated quantity correlation information In the aforementioned accumulated quantity related information D1, typically, as follows: Figure 11 As shown, the accumulated amount decreases at a certain rate over time. However, sometimes... Figure 12 The information related to the amount of stock, D1, shows that the rate of decrease in stock volume after time T1 is smaller. Figure 13 The information D1 shows the amount of accumulated quantity that decreases at a greater rate after time T2. Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 This is a graph illustrating an example of how the percentage decrease in accumulated stock changes over a specified period of time.

[0139] The inventors discovered that the accumulated quantity related information D1 is as follows: Figure 12 and / or Figure 13The reason for such changes is that the state of the additive supply device 6 affects the change in the accumulated amount over time. Specifically, a correlation was found between the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 and the percentage decrease in the accumulated amount. More specifically, it was found that when the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is large, the percentage decrease in the accumulated amount is large, and when the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is small, the percentage decrease in the accumulated amount is small.

[0140] For example, under normal conditions, the relationship that the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 is greater than the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 holds true. That is, when additives are supplied from the accumulation tank 63 (the reduction rate of the accumulated amount is not zero), if the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 remains unchanged, such as... Figure 12 As shown, when the rate of decrease in accumulated volume becomes smaller after time T1, it indicates that the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 at time T1 is lower than before. That is, it can be determined that the supply rate of the additive after time T1 is lower than before. On the other hand, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the rate of decrease in the accumulated amount increases after time T2, it indicates that the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 becomes greater at time T2 than before. That is, it can be determined that the supply rate of the additive after time T1 is greater than before.

[0141] Furthermore, for example, under normal conditions, the relationship that the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 is greater than the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 holds true. If the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 does not change, such as... Figure 12 As shown, when the rate of decrease in the accumulated amount becomes smaller after time T1, it indicates that the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 becomes greater than before at time T1. That is, it can be determined that the supply rate of the additive after time T1 is smaller than before. On the other hand, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the rate of decrease in the accumulated amount increases after time T2, it indicates that the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 becomes lower than before at time T2. That is, it can be determined that the supply rate of the additive after time T1 is higher than before.

[0142] Furthermore, the relationship between the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 holds true. That is, when the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 is the same as or less than the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51, no more additive is supplied from the accumulation tank 63, and therefore the reduction ratio of the accumulated amount is 0. Conversely, when the reduction ratio of the accumulated amount is 0, it can be determined that the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 is equal to or less than the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 (i.e., the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 ≤ the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51).

[0143] The state of the additive supply device 6 can be determined using the aforementioned properties of the accumulated quantity correlation information D1 (i.e., the change of accumulated quantity over time). For example, the information processing unit 43 can determine the setting state of the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 by referring to the accumulated quantity correlation information D1 stored in the storage unit 44. In addition, when the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is constant, the state of the internal pressure of the storage tank 63, i.e., the state of the pressure adjustment device 62, can be determined.

[0144] Specifically, the information processing unit 43 refers to the storage quantity association information D1 stored in the storage unit 44, and in such a way... Figure 12 If the reduction rate of the accumulated amount becomes smaller as shown, it can be determined that the set value of the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 may become too small.

[0145] For example, it can be determined that there is a possibility that the target setting value of the pressure adjustment device 62 for the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 is too small (when the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is constant), or that the target setting value of the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is too large (when the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 is constant). Alternatively, if the set values ​​of the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 are normal, it can be determined that there is a possibility that the additive supply pipe 64 is blocked.

[0146] In this situation, for example, the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 can be increased by adjusting the pressure regulating device 62, or the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 can be decreased by adjusting the air delivery device 50, pressure regulating valve 50a, etc., thereby greatly setting the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51. If the situation where the reduction in the storage volume is small even after setting the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 to an appropriate size is not eliminated, it can be determined that there is a high probability that the additive supply pipe 64 is blocked. In this case, for example, the additive supply pipe 64 can be replaced, or the blockage of the additive supply pipe 64 can be eliminated.

[0147] On the other hand, the information processing unit 43 refers to the storage quantity association information D1 stored in the storage unit 44, and in such a way... Figure 13 If the reduction rate of the accumulated amount increases as shown, it can be determined that the set value of the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the accumulation tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 has become too large.

[0148] For example, it can be determined that there is a possibility that the target setting value of the pressure adjustment device 62 for the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 is too high (when the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is constant), or that the target setting value of the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is too low (when the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 is constant). Alternatively, if the set values ​​of the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 are normal, it can be determined that there is a possibility that the additive is leaking from the storage tank 63, etc.

[0149] In this situation, for example, the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 can be reduced by adjusting the pressure regulating device 62, or the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 can be increased by adjusting the air supply device 50, pressure regulating valve 50a, etc., thereby setting a very small pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51. If the situation where the reduction in the storage volume is large is not eliminated even when the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51 is set to an appropriate size, it can be determined that the possibility of additive leakage from the storage tank 63, etc., is high. In this case, for example, it is possible to replace the part where the additive leakage has occurred (e.g., the storage tank 63, etc.), or to block the part where the additive leakage has occurred.

[0150] 2. Second Implementation Method In the first embodiment described above, such as Figure 4 As shown, the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 of the volume calculation device 7 are disposed on the same outer wall side of the volume storage tank 63. The arrangement of the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 is not limited to this. Figure 14 As shown, the light source 72 can also be positioned on the opposite side of the shooting device 71 via the storage tank 63. Figure 14 This diagram shows the configuration of the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 in the second embodiment.

[0151] Thus, with the light source 72 positioned on the side opposite to the imaging device 71, across the accumulation tank 63, the imaging device 71 captures an image from the outside of the accumulation tank 63 showing the state of light transmission from the light source 72. In this case, as... Figure 15 As shown, an image of the area containing the additive is obtained, where the area becomes a bright white color. The area containing the additive becomes a bright white color because the light from the light source 72 is scattered by the additive. Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of an image of the storage section obtained in the second embodiment.

[0152] Even when getting Figure 15In the case of the image of the storage section as shown, since there is a large change in brightness at the first boundary B1, the large change in brightness can be detected by the same method as described in the first embodiment, thereby determining the position of the first boundary B1, that is, the position of the liquid surface of the additive.

[0153] In the second embodiment, only the positional relationship between the imaging device 71 and the light source 72 differs from that in the first embodiment; the other structures and functions of the spinning machine 100 are the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the other structures of the spinning machine 100 is omitted here.

[0154] 3. Third Implementation Method like Figure 16 As shown, the storage volume calculation device 7, which calculates storage volume information, may also include a differential pressure gauge 73 for measuring the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51. Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the structure of the additive supply mechanism in the third embodiment. In this case, in addition to the accumulated quantity related information D1 stored in the storage unit 44, the information processing unit 43 can also determine the state of the additive supply device 6 by considering the pressure difference measurement results of the differential pressure gauge 73.

[0155] Specifically, if the reduction ratio of the accumulated amount in the accumulated amount associated information D1 stored in the storage unit 44 becomes smaller, and the pressure difference measured by the differential pressure gauge 73 is also smaller than usual, the information processing unit 43 can determine that there is a high probability that the pressure difference setting value is too small, or the target setting value based on the internal pressure of the accumulated tank 63 of the pressure adjustment device 62 is too small.

[0156] On the other hand, if the reduction ratio of the accumulated amount in the accumulated amount related information D1 stored in the storage unit 44 becomes smaller, and if the pressure difference measured by the differential pressure gauge 73 is the same as or greater than the normal time, the information processing unit 43 can easily determine that there is a high possibility of blockage in the additive supply pipe 64.

[0157] Furthermore, if the percentage decrease in the accumulated amount in the accumulated amount correlation information D1 stored in the storage unit 44 increases, and the pressure difference measured by the differential pressure gauge 73 is also larger than usual, the information processing unit 43 can easily determine that there is a high probability that the pressure difference setting value is too large, or that the target setting value based on the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 of the pressure adjustment device 62 is too large. Moreover, it can be easily determined that the additive may be leaking from the storage tank 63, etc.

[0158] On the other hand, if the reduction ratio of the storage volume in the storage volume correlation information D1 stored in the storage unit 44 becomes larger, and if the pressure difference measured by the differential pressure gauge 73 is the same as or smaller than the normal time, the information processing unit 43 can easily determine that there is a high possibility of an additive leak from the storage tank 63, etc.

[0159] As described above, by considering the pressure difference measurement result of the differential pressure gauge 73 in addition to the storage volume correlation information D1, the state of the additive supply device 6 can be determined, and more detailed information can be obtained. For example, as described above, if the pressure difference measurement result of the differential pressure gauge 73 is normal but an abnormality is found in the storage volume correlation information D1, the additive may not be properly supplied to each spinning unit 1 due to reasons other than the pressure difference between the internal pressure of the storage tank 63 and the internal pressure of the first air pipe 51.

[0160] In the third embodiment, only the volume calculation device 7 has a differential pressure gauge 73, and the state of the additive supply device 6 is determined by considering the pressure difference measurement result of the differential pressure gauge 73 in addition to the volume association information D1, which is different from the first embodiment. The other structures and functions of the spinning machine 100 are the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the other structures of the spinning machine 100 is omitted here.

[0161] 4. Other implementation methods The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. In particular, the various embodiments and modifications described in this specification can be arbitrarily combined as needed.

[0162] (A) The calculation of the amount of additives in the accumulation tank 63 and / or the determination of the status of the additive supply device 6 using the accumulation amount association information D1 can also be performed by a device other than the body controller 4.

[0163] For example, the calculation of the storage volume information and / or the determination of the status of the additive supply device 6 can also be performed by various servers (such as cloud servers) connected to the spinning machine 100. Specifically, the machine controller 4 sends the image of the storage section obtained by the imaging device 71 of the storage volume calculation device 7 to the aforementioned server. The server can calculate the storage volume information based on the image of the storage section received from the machine controller 4, and record the calculated storage volume information in association with the time of imaging the storage tank 63 in the storage volume association information D1 stored in the server's storage device.

[0164] The aforementioned server can also be configured in countries other than those where the spinning machine 100 is installed. Even in such cases, it is possible to obtain the effect of automatically and accurately calculating the storage quantity information related to the storage quantity of additives based on the storage section image in countries where the spinning machine 100 is installed, and to easily install the storage quantity calculation device 7 on existing additive supply devices.

[0165] Alternatively, in facilities such as those equipped with the spinning machine 100, various terminals (computers) that are separately provided from the machine controller 4 and connected to the machine controller 4 in a communicable manner may perform calculations of accumulation amount information related to the accumulation amount of additives in the accumulation tank 63, and / or determine the status of the additive supply device 6 that uses the accumulation amount association information D1.

[0166] (B) The first to third embodiments described above can also be appropriately combined. For example, one light source 72 can be placed on the same outer wall side of the storage tank 63 where the imaging device 71 is located, and another light source 72 can be placed on the opposite side of the imaging device 71 across the storage tank 63. Thus, the light source 72 used during imaging can be switched depending on which direction the light is shone from to obtain a more suitable image of the storage section.

[0167] For example, when the light source 72 is positioned on the side opposite to the imaging device 71, with the accumulation tank 63 in between, it may be difficult to identify the portion containing the additive based on differences in brightness if the amount of additive accumulated in the accumulation tank 63 is low. In such cases, for example, if the amount of additive accumulated is above a predetermined threshold, it is possible to switch to using the light source 72 positioned on the side opposite to the imaging device 71 with the accumulation tank 63 in between; on the other hand, if the amount of additive accumulated is below the predetermined threshold, it is possible to switch to using the light source 72 positioned on the same outer wall side of the accumulation tank 63 where the imaging device 71 is located.

[0168] (C) The accumulation quantity confirmation scale 63c, which is provided on the accumulation tank 63 and used for visually confirming the accumulation quantity, can be used as the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b described above. For example, the portion of the accumulation quantity confirmation scale 63c marked with "0" (i.e., the scale indicating a low accumulation quantity) can be used as the first identifier 63a, and the portion marked with "5" (i.e., the scale indicating that the additive is full) can be used as the second identifier 63b. Alternatively, the identifier provided separately from the accumulation quantity confirmation scale 63c and the accumulation quantity confirmation scale 63c can both be used as the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b.

[0169] (D) The first identifier 63a and / or the second identifier 63b can be omitted. Without separately setting the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b from the volume confirmation scale 63c, as described above, the volume confirmation scale 63c can be substituted for the first identifier 63a and the second identifier 63b. Furthermore, for example, by setting only the first identifier 63a, if the liquid level drops to the position of the first identifier 63a, the user can be notified that the additive is low and needs to be replenished.

[0170] (E) In the first embodiment described above, when analyzing the liquid surface image, information on brightness changes is obtained by dividing the brightness of each pixel in the liquid surface image into red, green, and blue components. However, it is not limited to this; instead of dividing the brightness of each pixel into red, green, and blue components, information on the change in brightness of each pixel itself (i.e., the brightness of white) can be obtained, and based on this, information on the accumulation of the additive (such as the boundary (liquid surface) position) can be calculated.

[0171] (F) In the first embodiment described above, the accumulation amount calculated based on the liquid surface image is associated with the time when the liquid surface image (accumulation section image) was acquired to generate accumulation amount association information D1. However, it is not limited to this; the accumulation amount association information D1 can also be generated by associating the liquid surface image with the time when the liquid surface image (accumulation section image) was acquired. When the image captured by the imaging device 71 stores information related to the time when the image was acquired, since the liquid surface image is already associated with time-related information, the information obtained by storing the liquid surface image in time sequence can also be used as the accumulation amount association information D1.

[0172] 5. Postscript The above-described embodiments can also be described as follows.

[0173] (1) A spinning machine (e.g., spinning machine 100) includes a spinning unit (e.g., spinning unit 1), an additive supply device (e.g., additive supply device 6), an imaging unit (e.g., imaging device 71), and an information processing unit (e.g., information processing unit 43). The spinning unit generates and winds up yarn (e.g., yarn Y). The additive supply device has an accumulation section (e.g., accumulation tank 63) that supplies additives to the spinning unit. The accumulation section stores the additives and is transparent or semi-transparent. The imaging unit takes pictures of the accumulation section from the outside. The information processing unit calculates accumulation amount information related to the accumulation amount of additives in the accumulation section based on the image of the accumulation section obtained by the imaging unit taking pictures of the accumulation section.

[0174] In the aforementioned spinning machine, an imaging unit captures images of the storage section where additives can accumulate. An information processing unit then calculates storage quantity information related to the amount of additives stored in the storage section based on the image of the storage section obtained from the image. In this way, the imaging unit can automatically acquire images of the storage section obtained from the image, and the information processing unit can automatically and accurately calculate storage quantity information related to the amount of additives stored based on these images.

[0175] Furthermore, the imaging unit can be installed at any location that allows for external imaging of the storage unit. Therefore, it eliminates the need for modifications to the internal structure of the storage unit or major alterations to the additive supply device to accommodate the imaging unit. Since no changes to the internal structure of the storage unit or major modifications to the additive supply device are required, the imaging unit can be easily installed even with existing additive supply devices.

[0176] (2) The spinning machine described in (1) above may also include a storage unit (e.g., storage unit 44). The storage unit may also store storage quantity association information (e.g., storage quantity association information D1) that associates the storage quantity information with the time when the storage quantity information is acquired. In addition, the information processing unit may determine the status of the additive supply device based on the storage quantity association information.

[0177] The inventors have discovered that the state of the additive supply device affects the change in the accumulation amount over time. In the aforementioned spinning machine, the state of the additive supply device can be determined using the aforementioned properties of the accumulation amount correlation information (i.e., information representing the change in the accumulation amount over time).

[0178] (3) The spinning machine described in (2) above may also include a moving pipe (e.g., a first air pipe 51) and a pressure adjustment unit (e.g., a pressure adjustment device 62). The moving pipe moves the additive supplied from the additive supply device to the spinning unit. The pressure adjustment unit adjusts the pressure of the storage unit. The information processing unit may also determine the setting state of the pressure difference between the storage unit and the moving pipe as the state of the additive supply device.

[0179] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the setting state of the pressure difference between the storage section and the moving piping can be determined based on the storage volume correlation information, thereby determining whether the additive has been appropriately supplied to the spinning unit.

[0180] (4) In the spinning machine described in (3) above, the information processing unit can also determine the state of the pressure adjustment unit as the state of the additive supply device. In the spinning machine described above, the state of the pressure adjustment unit can be determined based on the accumulated quantity correlation information, thereby determining whether the additive is being properly supplied to the spinning unit.

[0181] (5) The spinning machine described in (3) or (4) above may also include a pressure difference measuring unit (e.g., differential pressure gauge 73). The pressure difference measuring unit measures the pressure difference between the moving pipe and the storage unit. The information processing unit may also determine the status of the additive supply device based on the storage volume correlation information and the pressure difference measured by the pressure difference measuring unit.

[0182] In the aforementioned spinning machine, for example, if the pressure difference measurement result of the pressure difference measuring unit is normal but an anomaly is found in the storage volume correlation information, more detailed information can be obtained, such as the improper supply of additives to the spinning unit due to reasons other than the pressure difference between the moving pipe and the storage unit.

[0183] (6) In any of the spinning machines described in (1) to (5) above, a first identifier (e.g., first identifier 63a) disposed near a first reference position of the storage section and a second identifier (e.g., second identifier 63b) disposed near a second reference position of the storage section may also be provided in the storage section. In this case, the imaging unit may also image the storage section in a manner that includes the first identifier and the second identifier.

[0184] In the aforementioned spinning machine, it is easy to determine which position in the image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage section is the first reference position and the second reference position of the storage groove. Therefore, information processing can be performed on the image to calculate the appropriate storage amount information.

[0185] (7) In any of the above (1) to (6), the information processing unit may calculate the storage amount information based on the position of the first boundary (e.g., the first boundary B1) in the storage unit image, which represents the first part (e.g., the first part P1) where the additive is stored in the storage unit and the second part (e.g., the second part P2) where the additive is not stored in the storage unit.

[0186] In the aforementioned spinning machine, the storage volume information can be accurately calculated based on the position of the first boundary between the first part and the second part of the storage section image.

[0187] (8) In the spinning machine described in (7) above, the brightness may also change at the first boundary. In the spinning machine described above, the brightness change of the first part and the second part generated at the first boundary can be used to accurately calculate the storage amount information based on the storage part image.

[0188] (9) In the spinning machine described in (7) or (8) above, the first part of the image of the storage section may also have a second boundary with varying brightness (e.g., second boundary B2). In this case, the information processing unit may also calculate state information related to the state of the additive stored in the storage section based on the second boundary.

[0189] In the aforementioned spinning machine, based on a second boundary with a brightness variation at the location where the additive is stored, the state information of the additive stored in the storage area can be accurately calculated.

[0190] (10) The spinning machine described in any of (1) to (9) above may also include a light source (e.g., light source 72). The light source is positioned on the same outer wall side as the storage section where the imaging device is located, and illuminates the storage section. In this case, the imaging device can also image the storage section by detecting the reflected light after the light from the light source is reflected off the outer wall of the storage section.

[0191] In the aforementioned spinning machine, by using an imaging device to detect the reflected light after the light from the light source is reflected off the outer wall of the accumulation tank, it is possible to obtain, for example, a portion of the accumulation tank that clearly shows the state of the additive stored in the accumulation tank (e.g., bubbling on the surface of the additive liquid).

[0192] (11) The volume calculation device (e.g., volume calculation device 7) includes an imaging unit and an information processing unit. The imaging unit takes an image of a transparent or semi-transparent volume from the outside, which stores additives supplied to the spinning unit that generates and winds the yarn. The information processing unit calculates volume information related to the volume of additives in the volume based on the image of the volume obtained by the imaging unit.

[0193] In the aforementioned storage volume calculation device, an imaging unit photographs the storage section capable of storing additives, and an information processing unit calculates storage volume information related to the storage volume of additives in the storage section based on the image of the storage section obtained by photographing the storage section. In this way, the imaging unit can automatically acquire the storage state of the additives in the storage section as a storage section image, and the information processing unit can automatically and accurately calculate the storage volume information related to the storage volume of additives based on this storage section image.

[0194] Furthermore, the imaging unit can be installed at any location that allows for external imaging of the storage unit. Therefore, it eliminates the need for modifications to the internal structure of the storage unit or major alterations to the additive supply device to accommodate the imaging unit. Since no changes to the internal structure of the storage unit or major modifications to the additive supply device are required, the imaging unit can be easily installed even with existing additive supply devices.

[0195] (12) The method for calculating the stock volume has the following steps. The following (a) and (b) do not specify the order of processing each step.

[0196] (a) The step of photographing a transparent or translucent storage section from the outside, which stores the additives supplied to the spinning unit that generates and winds the yarn (e.g., step S1).

[0197] (b) A step of calculating the amount of additives in the storage section based on the storage section image obtained by taking a picture of the storage section (e.g., steps S2 to S3).

[0198] In the above-described method for calculating the amount of additive stored, an image of the storage area capable of storing the additive is captured, and based on the image of the storage area obtained by capturing the image, storage amount information related to the amount of additive stored in the storage area is calculated. In this way, an image of the storage area obtained by capturing the image can be automatically acquired, and storage amount information related to the amount of additive stored can be automatically and accurately calculated based on that image.

[0199] Furthermore, in the aforementioned method for calculating the storage volume, the device for photographing the storage section (e.g., photographing device 71) can be positioned at any location where the storage section can be photographed from the outside. Therefore, it is not necessary to modify the internal structure of the storage section or make large-scale modifications to the additive supply device in order to install this device. Since it is not necessary to modify the internal structure of the storage section or make large-scale modifications to the additive supply device, the aforementioned device can be easily installed on existing additive supply devices.

[0200] Industrial applicability This invention can be widely applied to spinning machines that wind up yarn to produce packaged yarn.

Claims

1. A spinning machine, characterized in that, have: The spinning unit generates and winds up the yarn; An additive supply device having a transparent or semi-transparent storage section for storing additives, supplies the additives to the spinning unit. The camera unit takes pictures of the storage unit from the outside; as well as The information processing unit calculates storage quantity information related to the storage quantity of the additive in the storage unit based on the storage unit image obtained by the imaging unit capturing the storage unit.

2. The spinning machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a storage unit that stores accumulated quantity association information that associates the accumulated quantity information with the time when the accumulated quantity information was acquired. The information processing unit determines the status of the additive supply device based on the accumulated quantity association information.

3. The spinning machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also has: A movable piping system that moves the additive supplied from the additive supply device toward the spinning unit; and The pressure adjustment unit adjusts the pressure of the storage unit. The information processing unit determines the setting state of the pressure difference between the storage unit and the moving pipe as the state of the additive supply device.

4. The spinning machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The information processing unit determines the state of the pressure adjustment unit to determine the state of the additive supply device.

5. The spinning machine according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, It also includes a pressure difference measuring unit for measuring the pressure difference between the moving pipe and the storage section. The information processing unit determines the status of the additive supply device based on the accumulated volume association information and the pressure difference measured by the pressure difference measuring unit.

6. The spinning machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The storage section is provided with: a first identifier disposed near a first reference position of the storage section, and a second identifier disposed near a second reference position of the storage section. The imaging unit captures images of the storage unit in a manner that includes the first identifier and the second identifier.

7. The spinning machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The information processing unit calculates the accumulation information based on the location of the first boundary, where the first boundary is the boundary in the image of the accumulation section, representing a first portion where the additive is accumulated in the accumulation section and a second portion where the additive is not accumulated in the accumulation section.

8. The spinning machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The brightness changes at the first boundary.

9. The spinning machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The first portion of the stored image has a second boundary with varying brightness. The information processing unit calculates state information related to the state of the additive stored in the storage unit based on the second boundary.

10. The spinning machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, It also includes a light source, which is disposed on the same outer wall side of the storage section on which the imaging device is disposed, and illuminates the storage section with light. The imaging device captures images of the storage section by detecting the reflected light from the light source after it has been reflected off the outer wall of the storage section.

11. A storage volume calculation device, characterized in that, have: The imaging unit, which captures images from the outside of a transparent or semi-transparent storage section that stores additives supplied to the spinning unit that generates and winds the yarn; and The information processing unit calculates storage quantity information related to the storage quantity of the additive in the storage unit based on the storage unit image obtained by the imaging unit capturing the storage unit.

12. A method for calculating stock volume, characterized in that, have: The step of photographing a transparent or semi-transparent storage section from the outside, which stores additives supplied to the spinning unit that generates and winds the yarn; and The step of calculating the amount of additive stored in the storage section based on the storage section image obtained by taking a picture of the storage section.

Images