Taffeta unit and taffeta machine

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a taffeta unit for a taffeta machine and to a taffeta machine with such a taffeta unit.

[0002] Taffeta machines are typically used to embed sections of yarn strands into a substrate, usually in such a way that part of these yarn strands is firmly embedded in the substrate while the other part protrudes. This allows, for example, the creation of artificial turf, such as that used on various sports fields, for instance, football pitches.

[0003] Taffeta machines are typically used to process large fields or areas that are to be covered with a woven mat. Therefore, it is crucial that a taffeta machine has the highest possible throughput when inserting yarn sections. Equally important is high reliability, as a prolonged downtime for repairs during planned operation can quickly and significantly disrupt schedules.

[0004] Document WO 2017 / 017237 A1 discloses a taffeta unit for a taffeta machine according to the preamble of claim 1, a taffeta machine with such a taffeta unit, and an associated method. In this process, yarn sections are cut and transported parallel along a circular track and inserted into the substrate.

[0005] Document WO 2017 / 183977 A1 discloses a device for inserting synthetic fibers into a substrate. Fibers are transported, cut, and inserted into the substrate.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a taffeta unit for a taffeta machine which has proven to be particularly efficient and reliable. It is further an object of the invention to provide a taffeta machine with such a taffeta unit.

[0007] This is achieved according to the invention by a taffeta unit and a taffeta machine according to the respective main claims. Advantageous embodiments can be found, for example, in the respective dependent claims.

[0008] The invention relates to a taffeta unit for a taffeta machine.

[0009] The taffeta unit has a yarn feed device for the simultaneous and parallel feeding of a number of yarn strands.

[0010] The taffeta unit has at least one insertion element.

[0011] The taffeta unit has a yarn transport gripper which is designed to transport each free end of the yarn strands away from the yarn feed device, so that each insertion element is assigned one yarn strand.

[0012] The taffeta unit has a cutting unit which is designed to cut the yarn strands so that a yarn section remains from each yarn strand assigned to an insertion element.

[0013] Each insertion element is designed to insert the respective yarn section into a substrate located beneath the taffeta unit.

[0014] The taffeta unit according to the invention has proven to be particularly reliable and resistant to malfunctions in operation. One reason for this can be seen, for example, in the fact that the yarn feed device ensures a simultaneous and parallel feeding of the yarn strands, which can then be directly taken over by the yarn transport gripper. This, in turn, ensures in a simple manner that the yarn strands or yarn sections can reach a position in which they can be directly inserted into the substrate by the insertion element.

[0015] All described and / or necessary processes can be fully automated. Simple control mechanisms can be used, such as those revealed below.

[0016] It should be understood that a taffeta unit is the part of a taffeta machine specifically responsible for supplying and inserting yarn sections. A taffeta machine typically includes such a taffeta unit and also has other components such as a chassis, drive, coupling, control system, and other supporting systems. Furthermore, a taffeta machine typically also has means for storing yarns, which are then inserted by means of the taffeta unit.

[0017] Parallel feeding means that the yarn strands run parallel to each other. Simultaneous feeding means that the yarn strands, especially parallel strands, are moved in the same way. This has proven particularly advantageous, especially when a large number of yarn strands need to be processed simultaneously, in order to reduce the required processing time.

[0018] An insertion element is understood to be the element that ensures yarn segments are embedded in the substrate. According to the invention, this is a taffeta needle, as will be described in more detail below. It is intended that the same number of insertion elements are used as there are yarn strands, so that each yarn strand is assigned a corresponding insertion element, which embeds yarn segments of the respective yarn strand into the substrate.

[0019] A yarn strand assigned to a specific insertion element can, for example, be positioned below that element. This allows for easy insertion into the substrate. Specifically, this means that the lowest point of the yarn strand is located directly below the insertion element. Other parts of the yarn strand can extend upwards, for example, in a V-shape.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the yarn feeder has a plurality of rotating yarn holders. Typically, each yarn holder can hold and release the yarn strands. A rotating arrangement ensures particularly simple operation, as rotation around an axis is sufficient for feeding.

[0021] The yarn holders can, for example, be designed to work together in pairs, so that each yarn strand is held by two yarn holders of a pair before being cut. This allows a certain section to be defined in the yarn strands, which lies between two yarn holders working together in pairs. For example, the yarn strands can be cut between the yarn holders of each pair.

[0022] In one possible design, the yarn feeder has three pairs of yarn holders. In another possible design, the yarn feeder has four pairs of yarn holders. Such designs have proven advantageous because three or four pairs of yarn holders ensure continuous operation and are easy to handle. However, any other number of yarn holder pairs can also be used. It should also be noted that the yarn holders do not necessarily have to be grouped into pairs.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the yarn transport gripper is designed to grasp the free ends of the yarn strands by gripping the respective end sections of the yarn strands clamped between two yarn holders of a pair. By gripping the end section, the respective yarn strand can be held at a point where it is advantageously secured. This avoids gripping errors. For example, the yarn transport gripper can also be used to advance the respective yarn strand, and unwinding from a spool is also possible.

[0024] The yarn feeder can preferably be designed to rotate and / or advance the yarn holders before each taffeta operation. This allows, for example, new end sections of the yarn strands to be made available for gripping by the yarn transport grippers. The rotation or advancement of the yarn holders simply feeds the respective yarn strands forward.

[0025] Preferably, the yarn holders are arranged to rotate around a common axis. This allows for particularly easy rotation of the yarn holders.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, each yarn holder has a first yarn holder plate and a second yarn holder plate, which are slidable relative to each other for holding and releasing the yarn strands. For example, yarns can be clamped between these two yarn holder plates. Yarn holders can also share yarn holder plates, for example, yarn holders of a pair of yarn holders.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, each yarn holder has at least one upper, one middle, and one lower yarn holder plate. The middle yarn holder plate is preferably movable relative to the other two yarn holder plates by means of a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, for holding and releasing the yarn strands. This allows, for example, yarn strands to be clamped between the middle and upper yarn holder plates as well as between the middle and lower yarn holder plates. By sliding the plates, they can be released accordingly.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, each yarn holder has at least a first, a second, a third, and a fourth yarn holder plate. Preferably, the second and fourth yarn holder plates are movable relative to the other two yarn holder plates by means of a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, for holding and releasing the yarn strands. This allows clamping between two pairs of plates, which enables particularly reliable clamping of the yarn strands.

[0029] Preferably, at least one yarn holder plate is moved relative to the other yarn holder plate by means of a closing cam and an opening cam, each preferably movable by a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive. By means of the respective opening and closing cams, it can be achieved that each yarn holder plate is moved solely by movement along a path, for example along a circular path during rotation, and thereby clamps or releases yarn strands at predetermined points. This requires no further active elements, so that the clamping or releasing occurs automatically. Additionally, a drive, in particular a hydraulic drive, can enable movement of the closing cam and / or opening cam, which, for example, allows actuation independent of movement along the path.This makes it possible, for example, to release yarn strands at a specific time without having to move the yarn holder plate.

[0030] According to the invention, the yarn feeding device is designed to release the yarn strands during transport. This can be achieved, for example, by appropriately designing opening and / or closing cams or by actuation via a drive.

[0031] According to the invention, the yarn transport gripper pulls the yarn strands through the yarn feeder during transport. This allows the yarn transport gripper to achieve a corresponding feed rate. It is also provided that the yarn transport gripper unwinds the yarn strands from the respective yarn spools during transport. This allows for the continuous feeding of yarn from the designated yarn spools by the yarn transport gripper. Preferably, additional elements for unwinding or for a corresponding feed are not required. However, it should be understood that active unwinding of yarn spools can also be provided.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, the taffeta unit has an inlet-side deflection for guiding the yarn strands in front of the yarn feeder. This ensures a reliable supply of the yarn strands to the yarn feeder.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the cutting unit comprises a cutting blade and a counter blade, which are slidable relative to each other for cutting the yarn sections. This allows for a simple design of the cutting unit, and in particular, high scalability is possible; that is, a large number of yarn strands can be cut simultaneously using only one cutting blade and one counter blade. Alternatively, however, separate cutting tools can also be provided for the respective yarn strands.

[0034] Preferably, the cutting blade is displaceable relative to the counter blade by means of a drive, in particular a hydraulic cylinder. This allows for simple actuation of the cutting blade. However, other methods for actuating the cutting blade are also possible.

[0035] According to the invention, each insertion element has a taffeta needle designed to grip and insert the respective yarn section into the substrate. Such a taffeta needle allows for easy insertion of the yarn section, with the needle typically being arranged vertically and moving only in one dimension, particularly in the vertical direction. This enables a very simple design. The taffeta needle can penetrate the substrate as far as required and then be withdrawn. Adjusting the desired depth is also easily achieved.

[0036] The individual taffeta needle is preferably movable vertically and / or perpendicular to the substrate. This allows for easy insertion. The direction specified can refer in particular to a typical installation state in a taffeta machine moving across a surface. Specifically, it can be provided that all taffeta needles of the taffeta unit can be moved together or uniformly.

[0037] Preferably, the taffeta unit has a taffeta plate on its underside, in which at least one opening is formed for guiding the yarn section. Such an opening ensures that the yarn section remains in position during insertion and, if necessary, is also bent over. Furthermore, it allows for the guidance of the respective taffeta needle or insertion element.

[0038] Preferably, the taffeta unit has at least one needle guide for guiding the taffeta needles or for guiding an individual taffeta needle. In a preferred embodiment, each needle guide is partially movable with the taffeta needles, preferably extending to the base or the taffeta sheet. By means of such a needle guide, the taffeta needles can be preferably stabilized and guided, thus effectively preventing malfunctions and associated downtime. The needle guide can, for example, be designed such that each taffeta needle is enclosed, perhaps with only a small clearance, so that movement of the respective taffeta needle transverse to its longitudinal direction is prevented.

[0039] According to the invention, the insertion element unwinds the yarn strands from the respective yarn spools during movement. This allows an unwinding function to be implemented, for example, during insertion or other movements. For instance, the yarn strands can be held by the yarn transport gripper, with the unwinding being carried out by a movement of the respective insertion element.

[0040] The movement of the insertion elements or taffeta needles can, for example, create sections of equal length. This functionality can also be advantageously used for unwinding.

[0041] The yarn transport gripper can, for example, be pivotally mounted at a pivot point. This allows for easy operation of the yarn transport gripper; for instance, operation can be achieved by means of a movable element that engages at a point other than the pivot point. The yarn transport gripper can thus be pivoted, performing a simple, one-dimensional movement. Such a pivoting motion can, for example, enable the functionality of transporting yarn strands or unwinding yarn strands from spools.

[0042] The taffeta unit can, for example, have an actuated rod for pivoting the yarn transport grippers. The rod can be actuated, for example, hydraulically or by a crank drive. The aforementioned pivoting movement of the yarn transport gripper can be advantageously achieved by means of this rod and / or the associated drive.

[0043] The yarn transport gripper can, in particular, include a transport gripper for grasping the free ends of the yarn strands. The transport gripper can be specifically designed to hold and release the yarn strands or their free ends to perform the desired function. For example, a particular yarn strand can be held for transport and then released for insertion.

[0044] The transport gripper can, for example, have a first transport gripper plate and a second transport gripper plate, which are movable relative to each other, particularly by means of a hydraulic drive, for gripping and releasing the free ends. This allows for simple clamping and releasing of the yarn strands.

[0045] The yarn transport gripper can be specifically designed to release the yarn sections during insertion. This allows the yarn sections to move freely while they are being inserted.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the cutting unit can be pivotally mounted. This allows it to be moved into a suitable position when required. For details regarding the implementation and advantages of pivoting, please refer to the above descriptions of the yarn transport gripper.

[0047] The cutting unit can, for example, be designed to pivot towards the yarn strands before each cutting operation and away from them afterward. This allows the yarn strands to move or be advanced independently of the cutting unit, while the cutting unit is only in the appropriate position when a cutting operation is actually being performed.

[0048] Preferably, the taffeta unit has an adjustment device for the end position of the yarn transport gripper and / or the position of the cutting device. This allows, for example, the determination of how far the respective yarn strands are pulled through the yarn transport gripper. It also allows the determination of the position in which the cutting device should cut the yarn strands.

[0049] This allows, for example, adaptation to different applications, such as different insertion depths or different yarns. The respective adjustment device can be mechanical, for example, and can be operated manually or electrically.

[0050] Preferably, the taffeta unit features a depth adjustment device for controlling the insertion depth of the taffeta needles into the substrate. This allows for easy adjustment of how far the taffeta needles should move downwards during insertion, thus determining how deeply each yarn strand should be embedded in the substrate. This enables adaptation to varying requirements regarding the depth at which the yarn sections should ultimately remain in the substrate. Depending on how the yarn strands are cut, the device also allows for adjustment of how far the yarn sections protrude from the substrate after the insertion process is complete. The depth adjustment device can be implemented, for example, as a mechanical height adjustment mechanism. It can be operated manually or electrically.

[0051] The invention further relates to a taffeta machine for inserting yarn segments, each positioned and cut from a single yarn strand by a taffeta unit according to the invention, into a substrate located beneath the taffeta unit. The taffeta machine comprises a taffeta unit, which is a taffeta unit according to the invention. All embodiments and variants described herein may be used.

[0052] In addition to the taffeta unit, the taffeta machine may also include other components such as a frame, a chassis, a drive, a coupling for attaching to a towing vehicle, a control system, an operating unit, yarn spools for storing and unwinding yarn strands, and other components.

[0053] It can be provided that the yarn transport grippers transport the yarn end sections held by the yarn feeder away from the yarn feeder, preferably in an alternating pivoting motion. It can further be provided that the yarn transport grippers assign each yarn strand to a corresponding insertion element and position it accordingly. After the cutting unit has cut the respective yarn sections from the respective yarn strands, the insertion element can insert the respective yarn sections into the substrate.

[0054] The invention is schematically illustrated in the drawing, particularly in exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a taffeta unit in a first state, Fig. 2 the taffeta unit in a second state, Fig. 3 the taffeta unit in a third state, Fig. 4 the taffeta unit in a fourth state, Fig. 5 the taffeta unit in a fifth state, Fig. 6 part of a yarn feeder, Fig. 7 another part of a yarn feeder, Fig. 8 yarn holder of a yarn feeder according to a first embodiment, Fig. 9 yarn holder of a yarn feeder according to a second embodiment, Fig. 10 a cross-section through parts of a yarn feeder, Fig. 11 an alternative embodiment of a yarn holder in a first state, Fig. 12 the yarn holder of Fig. 11 in a second state, Fig. 13 a transport gripper in a first state, Fig. 14 the transport gripper of Fig. 13 in a second state, Fig. 15 a cutting unit with actuating components, and Fig. 16 the cutting unit with actuating components of Fig. 15 with additional components.

[0055] In the figures, identical or corresponding elements are designated with the same reference numerals and are therefore not described again unless expedient. The disclosures contained in the entire description are transferable analogously to identical parts with the same reference numerals or component designations. Furthermore, the positional designations chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refer to the directly described and illustrated figure and are to be applied analogously to the new position if the position changes. Individual features or combinations of features from the different embodiments shown and described can also represent independent, inventive, or inventive solutions.

[0056] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a tack unit 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The tack unit 10 is in Fig. 1 depicted in a first state. The taffeta unit 10 is also in the Fig. 2 bis 5 depicted, with the figures each showing different states. Overall, in the Fig. 1 bis 5 A typical process sequence for using the taffeta unit 10 is shown, which begins with the provision of corresponding yarn strands and ends with the insertion of yarn sections into a substrate 12. It should be understood that the depicted process sequence can also be considered an independent aspect of the invention.

[0057] The taffeta unit 10 has a yarn feed device 20. The yarn feed device has a total of six yarn holders 22, which are grouped into three pairs of two yarn holders 22 each. Two yarn holders 22 of each pair are arranged in an approximately U-shaped configuration. The pairs are designated by the numbers 1, 2, and 3.

[0058] The yarn feeder 20 is designed to rotate about a central axis. This is achieved by a drive (not shown), which can be, for example, electric or mechanical. When the yarn feeder 20 rotates, the yarn holders 22 rotate accordingly.

[0059] A plurality of yarn strands 30 are fed to the taffeta unit 10. These yarn strands 30 are not part of the taffeta unit 10, but are used by the taffeta unit 10, i.e., cut and inserted. A deflector 37 serves in particular to feed the yarn strands 30, ensuring that the yarn strands 30 are fed along a predetermined curve.

[0060] The yarn strands 30 run parallel to each other, as seen in the view from Fig. 1 and only one strand of yarn 30 is visible in each of the other figures. The other strands of yarn 30 run parallel to the visible strand of yarn 30 behind the plane of the paper.

[0061] The yarn holders 22 are each designed to either grip or release the yarn strands 30. When the yarn strands 30 are gripped by a respective yarn holder 22, this means that the yarn strands 30 are carried along by a movement of the respective yarn holder 22, in particular during the rotation of the yarn feed device 20 already described. This allows, for example, additional yarn to be fed in, which can then be unwound from corresponding spools (not shown).

[0062] The taffeta unit 10 comprises a plurality of insertion elements 40. Each insertion element 40 is designed as a taffeta needle 42. As shown, the taffeta needle 42 is vertically oriented. It can be moved vertically, i.e., one-dimensionally, which corresponds to an up-and-down movement.

[0063] The taffeta unit 10 has as many taffeta needles 42 as it processes yarn strands 30. Each yarn strand 30 is thus assigned a corresponding taffeta needle 42. Each taffeta needle 42 serves to insert a specific yarn section into the base 12 beneath the taffeta unit 10. The precise functionality will be explained in more detail below.

[0064] The taffeta unit 10 further comprises a needle guide 44, which is arranged such that the taffeta needles 42 extend through the needle guide 44. The needle guide 44 stabilizes the taffeta needles 42. This means, in particular, that they can move essentially only in accordance with the intended up-and-down motion. This reliably prevents any breakage over time and any associated malfunctions.

[0065] The taffeta unit 10 has a yarn transport gripper 50. The yarn transport gripper 50 is pivotally mounted about a pivot point 52. To actuate the yarn transport gripper 50, the taffeta unit 10 has an actuable rod 54, which in this case is hydraulically actuated. The actuated rod 54 is connected to the yarn transport gripper 50 at a point different from the pivot point 52. This allows a pivoting movement of the yarn transport gripper 50 to be induced by means of the actuated rod 54.

[0066] The yarn transport gripper 50 has a transport gripper 56. The transport gripper 56 is designed to clamp or release the yarn strands 30. When the transport gripper 56 clamps the yarn strands 30, they can be transported, particularly by means of the pivoting movement just described, and, for example, pulled further. This can also, for example, induce the unwinding of the yarn strands 30 from their respective spools. The exact functionality will be discussed in more detail below.

[0067] The taffeta unit 10 has a cutting unit 60. As shown, the cutting unit 60 is also designed to pivot about a pivot axis 62. The cutting unit 60 is designed to cut the yarn strands 30. This can be done, in particular, in a state which is Fig. 3 As shown, the yarn strands 30 pass through the cutting unit 60, allowing the cutting unit 60 to easily cut them. This will be discussed in more detail below. For further process steps, the cutting unit 60 can then be pivoted so that the yarn strands 30 can be transported independently of the cutting unit 60 or can assume corresponding positions in space.

[0068] Below the needle guide 44, the taffeta unit 10 has a taffeta plate 70. This plate has openings 75. Each taffeta needle 42 is assigned a corresponding opening 75, and the respective needle 42 passes through its opening 75 when it is moved downwards. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0069] The taffeta plate 70 can be used to further stabilize the taffeta needles 42 shortly before they are inserted into the substrate 12. This reliably prevents lateral breakage or other malfunctions.

[0070] Fig. 2 shows the taffeta unit 10 in a state in which, starting from the one in Fig. 1 The depicted state shows the process steps that were carried out.

[0071] In particular, the yarn transport gripper 50 was pivoted to the right by extending the actuated rod 54. This pivoting movement brings the transport gripper 56 into engagement with the yarn strands 30 at a point between two paired yarn holders 22. The transport gripper 56 can then grasp the yarn strands 30, which can be achieved, in particular, by sliding a first transport gripper plate against a second transport gripper plate, whereby the yarn strands 30 can typically be clamped between the two transport gripper plates. However, more than two transport gripper plates can also be used, which can be at least partially shifted relative to each other.

[0072] It should be understood that the pivot point 52 in the figures only appears to lie coincidentally above the taffeta pins 42. There is no mechanical connection here.

[0073] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows the taffeta machine 10 in a further state after a further process step, which consists in particular of pivoting the yarn transport gripper 50 to the left. As already mentioned, the yarn strands 30 were previously gripped by the transport gripper 56. The yarn strands 30 are released by the yarn holders 22 so that the yarn transport gripper 50 can pull the yarn strands 30 from spools (not shown). The yarn strands 30 are now located at least partially below the needle guide 44. Each yarn strand 30 is now assigned to a taffeta needle 42 such that a yarn strand 30 is located below each taffeta needle 42. On the left side, the yarn strands 30 are now held by the yarn transport gripper 50. On the right side, they are held by the yarn feed device 20.

[0074] To achieve the state which is in Fig. 3 As shown, the yarn strands 30 were pulled by the yarn transport gripper 50 through a pivoting movement under the respective assigned taffeta needle 42, so that the yarn strands 30 are now held by the transport gripper 56 and lie directly under the respective assigned taffeta needle 42 on the needle guide 44.

[0075] Fig. 4 Figure 10 shows the taffeta unit 10 in yet another state. In this state, the taffeta needles 42 have been moved downwards, and with them, the needle guide 44 has also been moved downwards. The needle guide 44 now abuts directly against the taffeta plate 70. As shown, the respective taffeta needle 42 protrudes below the needle guide 44, so that the yarn strand 30 below it is gripped and pressed downwards. This leads to the tip of the yarn strand 30, which is in Fig. 4 immediately below the taffeta needle 42. The yarn strands 30 are pulled a little further. Subsequently, the yarn strands 30 are cut by the cutting unit 60, so that in Fig. 5 The depicted state can be transitioned to.

[0076] The taffeta needles 42 were lowered until they penetrated the substrate 12. On the right side, the cutting unit 60 cut the sections of yarn strands 30 that passed under the taffeta needles 42. On the left side, the transport gripper 56 released the respective free ends. Thus, each taffeta needle 42 is assigned a yarn section 35 that is no longer connected to the rest of the respective yarn strand 30.

[0077] The downward movement of the respective taffeta needle 42 draws the corresponding yarn section 35 downwards into the substrate 12. It is positioned such that part of the yarn section 35 is embedded in the substrate 12, while part of it protrudes upwards. Thus, the respective yarn section 35 is anchored in the substrate 12, yet also has upward-protruding sections. These can, for example, protrude 20 mm above the substrate 12, although other values ​​are possible. This corresponds to a typical design of artificial turf, where the upward-protruding sections constitute the visible and perceptible part of the artificial turf.

[0078] During the transition from the in Fig. 4 the state shown in Fig. 5 In the depicted state, the yarn feed device 20 was further rotated 120° to the left. As a result, yarn strands 30 are now again located between yarn holders 22, so that the yarn transport gripper 56 can grasp them and pull them to the left, as described above. The process sequence described herein can then begin anew.

[0079] Fig. 6 shows part of the yarn feed device 20.

[0080] The yarn feed device 20 is rotatable about an axis 21. The yarn feed device 20 has a shaft 23 on which the yarn holders 22 already described are attached. As already mentioned with reference to Fig. 1 As mentioned, the yarn holders 22 are arranged in pairs, specifically in three pairs. The yarn holders 22 are rotationally fixed to the shaft 23.

[0081] A motor 84 serves to drive the shaft 23. This also serves as the left-hand bearing for the shaft 23. On the right side, the shaft 23 is supported in a ball bearing 88.

[0082] To the left of the motor 84 are a timing wheel 86 and a sensor 87 arranged above it. This allows the rotation of the shaft 23 to be monitored.

[0083] Immediately above wave 23 is in Fig. 6 A schematic representation of part of a yarn holder 22 is shown. This holder has a movable yarn holder plate 24, which is mounted such that it is only displaceable in one dimension in the horizontal direction. The yarn holder 22 also has a guide wheel 26, which is rigidly connected to the movable yarn holder plate 24. Thus, any movement of the guide wheel 26 is directly transmitted to the movable yarn holder plate 24.

[0084] An opening cam 80 and a closing cam 82 are used to determine the movement of the movable yarn holder plate 24. These are each designed as solid bodies.

[0085] The guide wheel 26 is located in the Fig. 6 The depicted state is directly connected to the opening cam 80. This controls the horizontal movement of the movable yarn holder plate 24, whereby the guide wheel 26 moves along the opening cam 80 according to the previously described rotation of the yarn holder 22 around the axis 21. The design of the surface of the opening cam 80 facing the guide wheel 26 thus enables a horizontal movement of the guide wheel 26 and consequently a corresponding horizontal movement of the movable yarn holder plate 24.

[0086] As will be described in more detail below, the yarn holder 22 also has at least one fixed yarn holder plate, with the movable yarn holder plate 24 being movable, in particular relative to this fixed yarn holder plate. Due to the design of the two plates, yarn strands can be trapped between them. In particular, yarn strands can be trapped when the movable yarn holder plate 24 is in a state after a horizontal displacement to the right. If, on the other hand, the movable yarn holder plate 24 is displaced to the left, for example, as described above by the opening curve 80, the yarn strands are released so that they can move freely along their respective longitudinal directions.

[0087] The yarn feed device 20 also has a drive 90, which serves to move the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82 in a horizontal direction. This allows opening or closing to occur independently of the movement of the respective yarn holder 22 along the circular path. This will be explained below with reference to Fig. 7 will be described in more detail.

[0088] Fig. 7 The figure shows the yarn transport device 20 from a different view and in a different state. Regarding the components already described, please refer to the description of Fig. 6 referred.

[0089] The drive 90 is connected to one or more guide rods, one of which is a guide rod 92 in Fig. 7 The guide rods 92 are rigidly connected to the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82, the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82 being mounted in such a way that they are horizontally movable to a limited extent. Thus, by moving the guide rods 92, the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82 can also be moved in the same way.

[0090] By means of the drive 90, which can move the guide rods 92, a horizontal movement of the opening cam 80 and the closing cam 82 is thus possible. This allows, for example, the release of yarn strands independently of a movement of the respective yarn holder along the intended circular path.

[0091] It is understood that the closing curve 82 acts on the movable yarn holder plate 24 in a similar manner to that described with reference to the opening curve 80, but in particular in the opposite direction. Specifically, the closing curve 82 can cause the movable yarn holder plate 24 to be displaced to the right, thus potentially clamping yarn strands.

[0092] Fig. 8 The yarn transport device 20 is shown in a sectional view from a direction perpendicular to that of the Fig. 6 and 7 The paired arrangement of two yarn holders 22 in a U-shape is clearly visible. Furthermore, their internal structure is apparent.

[0093] Two fixed yarn holder plates 27 are installed on the outside of each plate, which are not movable and are firmly connected to the shaft 23.

[0094] The movable yarn holder plate 24 is arranged centrally between the two fixed yarn holder plates 27. As already mentioned, this plate is designed to be horizontally displaceable. Due to the previously described, in Fig. 8 Due to the concealed design of the yarn holder plates 24, 27, yarn strands 30 can be clamped or released between these two yarn holder plates 24, 27. Clamping, in particular, makes it possible for the corresponding yarn strands 30 to be carried along by a rotation of the yarn feed device 20.

[0095] Fig. 9 Figure 1 shows an alternative embodiment of the yarn feed device 20. In contrast to the embodiment described so far, this version has not six, but a total of eight yarn holders 22, which are also arranged in pairs in a U-shape. Thus, there are a total of four pairs of yarn holders 22. For further details regarding functionality and specific design, please refer to the description already provided. Three of the pairs of yarn holders 22 are in Fig. 9 only shown schematically.

[0096] Fig. 10 Figure 1 shows a top view of the opening cam 80. It can be seen that the opening cam 80 is approximately horseshoe-shaped or U-shaped, with the previously described guide wheel 26 running on the opening cam 80 for part of its intended rotation and not on it for the remainder. For example, when the guide wheel 26 is in a state where it is not in contact with the opening cam 80, it allows the movable yarn holder plate 24 to move onto the opening cam 80. Such a movement can be triggered, in particular, by the closing cam 82. When the guide wheel 26 comes back into contact with the opening cam 80, the movable yarn holder plate 24 is typically pushed away from the opening cam 80.

[0097] Fig. 11 Figure 1 schematically shows a yarn holder 22 in an alternative design. In this design, not just one movable yarn holder plate 24 is provided, but rather two movable yarn holder plates 24. These are moved in conjunction with each other.

[0098] The sequence, from top to bottom, is such that first a movable yarn holder plate 24, then a fixed yarn holder plate 27, then another movable yarn holder plate 24 and then another fixed yarn holder plate 27 are provided.

[0099] Fig. 11 The figure shows an open state, with a total of eight yarn strands 30 shown here. These pass freely through respective recesses in the yarn holder plates 24, 27, so that they are not pinched anywhere. This means, in particular, that the yarn strands 30 can move freely along their respective longitudinal directions, even though they are located within the yarn holder 22. It should be noted that any other number of yarn strands can also be used.

[0100] Fig. 12 In contrast, the figure shows a state in which the movable yarn holder plates 24 have been shifted to the right. It can be seen that the yarn strands 30 have been clamped between the movable yarn holder plates 24 and the stationary yarn holder plates 27.

[0101] The design, which is in the Fig. 11 und 12 The design shown, which is based on a total of four yarn holder plates 24, 27, has proven to be even more advantageous compared to a design with three yarn holder plates. In particular, the yarn strands 30 can be clamped even more reliably.

[0102] The Fig. 13 und 14 separately show the transport gripper 56 with continuous yarn strands 30. Fig. 13 This shows an open state in which the yarn strands 30 are freely movable along their respective longitudinal direction. Fig. 14 shows a closed state in which the yarn strands 30 are held by the transport gripper 56.

[0103] The transport gripper 56 has a first transport gripper plate 58 and a second transport gripper plate 59. These are slidable relative to each other. The yarn strands 30 can be guided between the transport gripper plates 58 and 59 through recesses formed in each plate, where they are held in the Fig. 13 The illustrated state is freely movable along their respective longitudinal directions. If the first transport gripper plate 58 is moved to the right relative to the stationary second transport gripper plate 59, the yarn strands 30 are clamped between the two transport gripper plates 58, 59. This is shown in Fig. 14 This state makes it possible, for example, to pull the yarn strands 30 to the left during the pivoting movement of the yarn transport gripper 50 described above, and to unwind new yarn from the respective yarn spools. If yarn sections are to be inserted subsequently, the following can be used, for example: Fig. 13 The open state shown is assumed.

[0104] Fig. 15 Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view through part of the aforementioned shaft 23 and the cutting unit 60. The pivot axis 62, about which the cutting unit 60 can pivot, is also shown.

[0105] The cutting unit 60 has an additional ball bearing 64. A knobbed wheel 28 is mounted on the shaft 23 and is non-rotatably connected to the shaft 23. Thus, the knobbed wheel rotates with the shaft 23. The knobbed wheel 28 has three recesses 29 into which the additional ball bearing 64 can engage, as shown, when the knobbed wheel 28 is in the appropriate rotational position.

[0106] When the additional ball bearing 64 engages in one of the recesses 29 as shown, the cutting unit 60 is in a pivoted position. This position is particularly useful for cutting operations. As the shaft 23 continues to rotate, the knurled wheel 28 also rotates, pushing the additional ball bearing 64 outwards. This pivots the cutting unit 60 outwards, separating it from the yarn strands 30. This allows, for example, the yarn strands 30 to be pulled through.

[0107] Through the in Fig. 15 The implementation shown achieves that the shaft 23, via the knobbed wheel 28 and the further ball bearing 64, automatically ensures the correct pivoting position of the cutting unit 60.

[0108] Fig. 16 shows another sectional view, in addition to the ones in Fig. 15The components shown include the opening cam 80. This is located in front of the cam wheel 28. As soon as a yarn holder 22 has gripped the yarn strands 30, the opening cam 80 can be actuated. This releases the yarn strands 30, allowing the yarn transport gripper 50 to pull them forward. In one possible configuration, the taffeta needles 42 then move downwards. Subsequently, the closing cam 82 can be actuated, retracting the opening cam 80. As the taffeta needles 42 continue to descend, the shaft 23 can simultaneously be rotated to transport the yarn strands 30 into a position where the yarn transport gripper 50 can grip them again. To allow the yarn holders 22 to pick up the yarn strands 30 again, the yarn holders 22 are opened before passing the deflection 37. This is achieved by two ball bearings below the opening curve 80.When approaching the closing curve 82, the yarn holders 22 are closed again and the yarn strands 30 are thus clamped.

[0109] In summary, a possible procedure can be described as follows. ▪ Gripping yarn strands using the yarn transport gripper, ▪ Releasing the yarn strands in the yarn feeder, ▪ Pivoting the yarn transport gripper away from the yarn feeder, thereby arranging the yarn strands under the insertion element, ▪ Moving the cutting element into a cutting position, ▪ Cutting the yarn strands, thereby creating yarn sections, ▪ Releasing the yarn sections, ▪ Inserting the yarn sections using a respective insertion element.

Claims

1. A taffeta unit for a mobile taffeta machine, the taffeta unit (10) comprising the following: ▪ a yarn feeding device (20) for feeding a number of yarn strands (30) simultaneously and in parallel, ▪ at least one insertion element (40), ▪ a yarn transport gripper (50), which is designed to transport a respective free end of the yarn strands (30) away from the yarn feeding device (20), so that a respective yarn strand (30) is assigned to each insertion element (40), ▪ a cutting unit (60) which is designed to cut the yarn strands (30) so that a yarn section (35) associated with the respective insertion element (40) remains from each yarn strand (30) associated with an insertion element (40), ▪ wherein each insertion element (40) is designed to insert the respective associated yarn section (35) into a substrate (12) located under the taffeta unit (10), ▪ wherein the yarn feeding device (20) unwinds the yarn strands (30) from respective yarn bobbins during transport - in particular during the process of feeding simultaneously and in parallel - and wherein the yarn feeding device (20) is designed to release the yarn strands (30) during transport, ▪ wherein the yarn transport gripper (50) pulls the yarn strands (30) through the yarn feeding device (20) during transport - away from the yarn feeding device (20) - and unwinds them from respective yarn bobbins, ▪ wherein each insertion element (40) has a taffeta needle (42) which is designed for gripping and inserting the respective yarn section (35) into the substrate (12), ▪ wherein the taffeta needles (42) unwind the yarn strands (30) from the respective yarn bobbins during their movement.

2. Taffeta unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the yarn feeding device (20) comprises a plurality of rotating yarn holders (22).

3. Taffeta unit according to claim 2, characterized in that the yarn holders (22) are each designed to interact in pairs, so that each yarn strand (30) is held by two yarn holders (22) of a pair before cutting.

4. Taffeta unit according to one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the yarn feeding device (20) is designed to further rotate and / or further guide the yarn holders (22) before each taffetching process in order to provide new end sections of the yarn strands for gripping by the yarn transport grippers (50).

5. Taffeta unit according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the yarn holders (22) are arranged rotatably about a common axis (21).

6. Taffeta unit according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that at least one yarn holder plate (24) of a yarn holder (22) is displaced relative to the other yarn holder plate (27) by means of a closing cam (82), which can be moved in each case by a drive (90), in particular by a hydraulic drive, and an opening cam (80).

7. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the taffeta unit (10) has a taffeta plate (70) at the bottom, in which at least one opening (75) for guiding the yarn section (35) is formed.

8. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the taffeta unit (10) has at least one needle guide (44) for guiding the taffeta needles (42) or for guiding a respective taffeta needle (42), each needle guide (44) being partially movable with the taffeta needles (42), preferably as far as in front of the substrate (12) or as far as in front of the taffeta plate (70).

9. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn transport gripper (50) is pivotably mounted at a pivot point (52).

10. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the yarn transport gripper (50) is designed to release the yarn sections (35) during insertion.

11. Taffeta unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cutting unit (60) is pivotably mounted, the cutting unit (60) being designed such that it is pivoted towards the yarn strands (30) before a respective cutting operation and is pivoted away from the yarn strands (30) after the cutting operation.

12. Mobile taffeta machine for inserting yarn sections, each positioned and cut off from a yarn strand (30) by a taffeta unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, into a substrate (12) located under the taffeta unit (10).