Jacquard heddle and loom comprising such a jacquard heddle

Abstract

A Jacquard heddle (6) comprising a link (8) with an upper hole (83) and a lower hole (85) of circular cross-section. A first monofilament yarn (65A) enters the upper hole, forming an upper loop (67A), and a second monofilament yarn (65B) enters the lower hole, forming a lower loop (67B). The Jacquard heddle (6) includes an upper end connector (60A) to which two end portions (69A) of the first yarn (65A) are attached, and a lower end connector (60B) to which two end portions (69B) of the second yarn (65B) are attached. The upper loop (67A) defines a free opening (671A) extending from the upper hole to the point where the two end portions of the first yarn are joined to the upper end connector.The lower loop delimits a free opening (671B) extending from the lower hole to the connection of the two end portions of the second wire with the lower end connector.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a Jacquard heddle configured to be mounted on a Jacquard loom and a loom comprising such a Jacquard heddle.

[0002] The heddles of a Jacquard loom must minimize their impact on the warp thread density and limit snagging of neighboring warp threads. During weaving on a Jacquard loom, especially when the warp threads are thick, the heddle links can be pulled in the direction of warp thread feed, resulting in heddle bending out of the longitudinal plane. Alternatively, contact between a heddle link and neighboring warp threads can cause misalignment of the heddle body and the heddle link in the longitudinal plane. In a Jacquard loom, the heddles are particularly long compared to a frame loom, and therefore more prone to bending in the direction of warp thread feed.

[0003] JPS55139185 describes a heddle for a loom frame, which is therefore not a Jacquard loom. The heddle consists of a link, an upper thread, and a lower thread. The upper thread is inserted into an upper triangular slot in the link, and the lower thread is inserted into a lower triangular slot in the link. To be hooked into the triangular slot, each thread is twisted around itself, thus forming a braid.

[0004] JP2001303384 discloses an alternative construction in which two threads are twisted around an added annular link. These known heddles are poorly suited to Jacquard looms, particularly when the warp threads are thick and exert significant bending stress on the heddle link along the feed direction. Indeed, these known heddles do not withstand the stresses imposed by the Jacquard loom well because, when the heddles are deformed by bending out of the longitudinal plane, the twists forming the connections between the heddle bodies and the link are subjected to high stress. This can cause incipient breaks and premature wear of the heddles, especially the twists. Furthermore, these known heddles are not protected from corrosive environments, which tends to promote these incipient breaks.

[0005] US776216A discloses a Jacquard heddle formed of a link, an upper wire, and a lower wire, each passing through a circular opening in the link. The two wires are pressed against the link, and a weld is applied at the junction between each wire and the link. This connection of each wire to the link, achieved through both form cooperation and welding, is subjected to significant stress when the heddles are deformed by bending out of the longitudinal plane.

[0006] The aim of the invention is therefore to propose a new Jacquard heddle, thanks to which the risk of breakage of the heddle is reduced, in particular when a warp thread passing through the heddle is thick.

[0007] To this end, the invention relates to a Jacquard heddle for guiding a warp thread on a Jacquard loom, the Jacquard heddle extending along a longitudinal axis and comprising: a link, comprising a convex outer edge and two flat principal faces, parallel and opposite to each other, the link being crossed, from one of the principal faces to the other, by an eyelet for the passage of the warp thread, by an upper hole and by an lower hole, the upper hole and the lower hole being arranged on either side of the eyelet along the longitudinal axis; a first thread, entering the upper hole by forming an upper loop; and a second thread, which is distinct from the first thread and which enters the lower hole by forming a lower loop.

[0008] According to the invention: The Jacquard heddle includes an upper end connector, comprising means for connecting to a first element of a Jacquard harness, two end portions of the first wire being connected to the upper end connector; and the Jacquard heddle includes a lower end connector, comprising means for connecting to a second element of the Jacquard harness, two end portions of the second wire being connected to the lower end connector; the upper hole is circular in cross-section; and the lower hole is circular in cross-section; the upper loop delimits a free opening extending, along the longitudinal axis, from the upper hole to the connection of the two end portions of the first wire with the upper end connector;The lower loop defines a free opening extending, along the longitudinal axis, from the lower hole to the connection of the two end portions of the second wire with the lower end connector; the first wire is the only link between the link and the upper end connector and is a monofilament wire of constant diameter; the second wire is the only link between the link and the lower end connector and is a monofilament wire of constant diameter.

[0009] Thanks to the invention, when the heave is flexed by being driven in a forward direction by the warp thread passing through the eyelet, the link can pivot relative to the upper body by pivoting the upper hole within the free opening of the upper body's loop. Similarly, the link can pivot relative to the lower body by pivoting the lower hole within the free opening of the lower body's loop. This pivoting of the link within the loops is facilitated by the interaction of the circular thread forming the body with the circular hole of the link in which it is engaged, allowing the heave to deform without generating bending stress at the connection between the link and the upper or lower body, respectively. The risk of heave breakage is thus reduced.

[0010] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the Jacquard loom comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations: The diameter of the top hole is greater than or equal to twice, preferably 2.5 times, the diameter of the first wire. The diameter of the top hole is preferably less than 3.5 times the diameter of the first wire. The diameter of the bottom hole is greater than or equal to twice, preferably 2.5 times, the diameter of the second wire. The diameter of the bottom hole is preferably less than 3.5 times the diameter of the second wire. The thickness of the link, measured from one of the principal faces to the other, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, is less than twice the smaller of the two diameters of the first and second wires.The outer edge of the link comprises two central portions extending along the longitudinal axis and an upper portion, respectively a lower portion, terminating in an upper and lower rounded end, respectively. The upper and lower portions correspond to a progressive reduction in the width of the principal faces from the central portions towards the upper and lower rounded ends, respectively, the width being measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the principal faces. The upper rounded end is centered on the upper hole and extends at least 100° around the center of the upper hole. The lower rounded end is centered on the lower hole and extends at least 100° around the center of the lower hole.The height of the eyelet, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis, is at least five times greater than the larger diameter between the diameters of the upper and lower holes. The link is metallic, preferably stainless steel. The eyelet comprises an upper and a lower edge, delimiting the eyelet along the longitudinal axis, the upper and lower edges being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and wherein the width of the eyelet is strictly greater than the larger diameter between the diameters of the upper and lower holes, preferably 2.5 to 3.5 times greater. The first and second wires are nylon. The first and second wires are metallic. The upper end connector is made of polymer material, overmolded onto both end portions of the first wire. The lower end connector is made of polymer material, overmolded onto both end portions of the second wire.The upper end connector includes a through-hole perpendicular to the longitudinal axis for the partial reception of the two end portions of the first wire connected to it. The lower end connector includes a through-hole perpendicular to the longitudinal axis for the partial reception of the two end portions of the second wire connected to it. The connection between the two end portions of the first wire and the upper end connector includes a tube arranged around the hole and pressing the two end portions of the first wire into contact with the upper end connector. The connection between the two end portions of the second wire and the lower end connector includes a tube arranged around the hole and pressing the two end portions of the second wire into contact with the lower end connector.The connection between the two end portions of the first wire and the upper end connector includes an outer sheath disposed partially around the upper end connector and the first wire. The connection between the two end portions of the second wire and the lower end connector includes an outer sheath disposed partially around the lower end connector and the second wire.

[0011] The invention also relates to a Jacquard loom comprising several Jacquard heddles, at least one of which conforms to the above.

[0012] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which: [ Fig. 1 ] There figure 1 is a schematic side view of a Jacquard loom comprising two Jacquard heddles according to a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2 ] There figure 2 is a front view and a side view of one of the rails of the figure 1 . [ Fig. 3 ] There figure 3 is a view of a detail A and a detail B of the figure 2 . [ Fig. 4 ] There figure 4 is a view of a detail C of the figure 2 . [ Fig. 5 ] There figure 5 is a partial longitudinal section of the smooth surface of the previous figures following the section line VV shown on the figure 4 the smooth surface being shown in an unflexed configuration and in a flexed configuration. Fig. 6 ] There figure 6 is a front view and a side view of a lower end connector of the rail in the preceding figures, showing a hook of the lower end connector before the lower end connector is attached to the lower body. Fig. 7 ] There figure 7 is a perspective view of a stage in the manufacturing of the smooth surface shown in the previous figures. Fig. 8 ] There figure 8 is a side view and a front view of a lower end connector belonging to a Jacquard heddle according to a second embodiment of the invention. Fig. 9 ] There figure 9 is a front view of a lower end connector belonging to a Jacquard smooth according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0013] A Jacquard loom 1, according to a first embodiment of the invention, schematically represented in figure 1 , includes a Jacquard-type swarm formation mechanism 2, a harness 3 into which are integrated Jacquard heddles 6, a loom frame 7 and warp threads 4. The swarm formation mechanism 2 controls several hooks, not shown.

[0014] The harness 3 comprises several arches 32 connecting, respectively, a Jacquard heddle 6 to a lower end of a hook of the sheaf-forming mechanism 2. In its mounted configuration within the harness 3, and excluding any deformation during weaving, each Jacquard heddle 6 is tensioned along a respective longitudinal axis Z1, preferably vertical. The Jacquard heddles 6 are advantageously distributed in depth and across the width of the Jacquard loom 1. Each Jacquard heddle 6 is connected to a respective return spring 34 belonging to the harness 3, the return spring 34 being itself connected to the loom frame 7. Each Jacquard heddle 6 comprises a respective link 8 through which a warp thread 4 passes.With each stroke of the Jacquard loom 1, the sheaf formation mechanism 2 selectively imposes a vertical movement, along the longitudinal axis Z1, of the Jacquard heddles 6 via the arches 32, which brings the warp threads 4, carried by the Jacquard heddles 6, into different predetermined positions along the longitudinal axis Z1, to form a fabric with the warp threads 4 and a weft thread 9 inserted through the sheaf formed by the warp threads 4 thanks to the positioning of the Jacquard heddles 6. With each stroke of the Jacquard loom 1, the warp threads 4 advance in a direction of advance X1, perpendicular to the axis Z1.

[0015] The Jacquard 6 smooth, is shown in more detail on the figure 2 The Jacquard 6 heddle is configured to be mounted on a Jacquard loom. The Jacquard 6 heddle comprises an upper body 62A, a lower body 62B, a link 8, an upper end connector 60A and a lower end connector 60B.

[0016] The upper body 62A of the Jacquard heddle 6 is the sole link between the link 8 and the upper end connector 60A. The upper end connector 60A is separate from the upper body 62A. The upper body 62A is formed exclusively from a single first yarn 65A, preferably nylon, for example polyamide 6 or polyamide 6.6 with or without additives, monofilament, without twists or corrugations, and advantageously of constant circular cross-section, ideally with a diameter d62A of 0.4 mm (millimeters). The upper body 62A is continuous, and two end portions 69A of the upper body 62A are connected to the upper end connector 60A. The upper body 62A forms an upper loop 67A, visible on the figures 2 , 4and in particular 5, which delimits a free opening 671A that extends longitudinally from the connection of the two end portions 69A of the upper body 62A with the upper end connector 60A, specifically from the lower longitudinal end of this connection, to an upper hole 83 belonging to the link 8. In other words, the two portions of the upper body 62A extending on either side of the hole 83 of the link 8 are only connected together at the connection of the upper body 62A with the upper end connector 60A and are not immobilized on the link 8. In a configuration of the Jacquard rail 6 not mounted in the harness 3, the upper body 62A can therefore slide in the upper hole 83 of the link 8 within the limit given by the free opening 671A. The upper body 62A is not twisted around itself or twisted.Ultimately, there is no other link between link 8 and the top end connector 60A than the first wire 65A.

[0017] The lower body 62B of the Jacquard heddle 6 is the sole link between the link 8 and the lower end connector 60B. The lower end connector 60B is separate from the lower body 62B. The lower body 62B is formed exclusively from a second yarn 65B, preferably nylon, for example polyamide 6 or polyamide 6.6 with or without additives, monofilament, without twists or corrugations, and advantageously of constant circular cross-section, ideally with a diameter d62B of 0.4 mm. The second yarn 65B forming the lower body 62B is separate from the first yarn 65A forming the upper body 62A. The lower body 62B is continuous, and two end portions 69B of the lower body 62B are connected to the lower end connector 60B. The lower body 62B forms a lower loop 67B, visible on the figures 2 ,4and in particular 5, which delimits a free opening 671B which extends longitudinally from the connection of the two end portions 69B of the lower body 62B with the lower end connector 60B, precisely from the upper longitudinal end of this connection, to a lower hole 85 belonging to the link 8. In other words, the two portions of the lower body 62B extending on either side of the hole 85 of the link 8 are only connected together at the connection of the lower body 62B with the lower end connector 60B and are not immobilized on the link 8. In a configuration of the Jacquard heddle 6 not mounted in the harness 3, the lower body 62B can therefore slide freely in the lower hole 85 of the link 8 within the limit given by the free opening 671B. The lower body 62B is not twisted around itself or twisted.Ultimately, there is no other link between link 8 and lower end connector 60B than the second wire 65B.

[0018] The Jacquard heddle 6 is connected to the return spring 34 by the lower end connector 60B. The lower end connector 60B, visible on the figures 2 , 3 , 6 And 7 and especially on the figure 3 , detail B, comprises a body 64B, preferably made of polymer, elongated along the longitudinal axis Z1, a hook 66B, preferably made of metal, visible on the figure 6 , a tube 61B and an external sheath 70B, preferably a heat-shrink sheath. The body 64B, preferably a thread belonging to the body 64B, forms a fastener 63B, through which the body 64B is attached to a first element of the harness 3, in particular to the return spring 34. The body 64B has a maximum transverse dimension dt64B, measured along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0019] As seen on the figure 6 The hook 66B defines a housing 68B, which passes through in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1. The housing 68B is open along the longitudinal axis Z1 towards the body 64B, but closed in the opposite direction. The hook 66B has a maximum lateral dimension d68B measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0020] The 61B tube is preferably made of metal and preferably has a general shape of revolution around the longitudinal axis Z1. As shown in the figure 7 The tube 61B advantageously forms an internal funnel 611B and an external flange 612B. The tube 61B has an internal dimension d61B, measured along the same axis as the maximum lateral dimension d68B of the housing 68B. The internal dimension d61B is greater than the maximum lateral dimension d68B of the housing 68B but less than the maximum transverse dimension dt64B of the body 64B. The internal dimension d61B is preferably less than the sum of the maximum lateral dimension d68B of the housing 68B and twice the diameter d62B of the lower body 62B. The tube 61B is closed insofar as it extends continuously around the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0021] The Jacquard 6 smooth is connected to the 32 arcade by the 60A upper end connector. The 60A upper end connector, visible on the figure 2 and on the figure 3 Detail A comprises a body 64A, preferably made of polymer, elongated along the longitudinal axis Z1, a hook 66A, preferably made of metal, a tube 61A, and an external sheath 70A, preferably heat-shrinkable. The body 64A forms a fastener 63A through which the body 64A is attached to a second element of the harness 3, in particular to the arch 32. The arch 32 is received in an opening defined by the fastener 63A. The body 64A has a maximum transverse dimension dt64A measured along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0022] Hook 66A defines a through-hole 68A perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1. The through-hole 68A is open along the longitudinal axis Z1 towards the body 64A but closed in the opposite direction. Hook 66A has a maximum lateral dimension, not shown, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1. This maximum lateral dimension for hook 66A is measured in the same way as the maximum lateral dimension d66B for hook 66B.

[0023] The 61A tube is advantageously made of metal, of revolution forming an internal funnel 611A, visible on the figure 3A and an external flange 612A. An internal dimension d61A of the tube 61A is greater than the maximum lateral dimension of the housing 68A but less than the maximum transverse dimension dt64A of the body 64A. The internal dimension d61A is preferably less than the sum of the maximum lateral dimension of the housing 68A and twice a diameter d62A of the upper body 62A. The tube 61A is closed insofar as it extends without discontinuity all around the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0024] Link 8, visible on the figures 1 And 2 , and especially to figures 4 And 5The link 8 is flat. It comprises a main face 80 and a main face 82 parallel and opposite to the main face 80. The main faces 80 and 82 are planar and each extends in a plane parallel to the longitudinal plane comprising the longitudinal axis Z1 and a transverse axis Y1 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1. The longitudinal plane is transverse to the feed direction X1. The link 8 is single-thickness, with a thickness e8, measured between the two main faces 80 and 82 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1 and the transverse axis Y1. The thickness e8 is less than twice the smaller diameter between the diameter d62A of the upper body 62A and the diameter d62B of the lower body 62B, preferably less than 1.5 times the smaller diameter between the diameter d62A of the upper body 62A and the diameter d62B of the lower body 62B, advantageously 0.5 mm. The link 8 is preferably made of stainless steel.This helps to limit the bulk of the upper loops 67A and lower loops 67B perpendicular to the main faces and therefore to limit the impact of the Jacquard heddle on the density of warp threads.

[0025] The link 8 includes an outer edge 84, which delimits the link 8 around its entire periphery. The outer edge 84 surrounds the main faces 80 and 82 around their entire circumference and connects the main faces 80 and 82 to each other. The outer edge 84 is closed and convex, with a hexagonal shape. Preferably, the outer edge 84 comprises two opposing, parallel central portions 86A and 86B extending along the longitudinal axis Z1. The outer edge 84 also includes an upper portion 88A and a lower portion 88B. Each central portion 86A and 86B connects the upper portion 88A to the lower portion 88B.

[0026] The upper portion 88A terminates with an upper rounded end 87A. The upper portion 88A corresponds to a progressive reduction in the width of the main faces 80 and 82, the width being measured along the transverse axis Y1 and the reduction being carried out from the central portions 86A and 86B towards the upper rounded end 87A along the longitudinal axis Z1. The lower portion 88B terminates with a lower rounded end 87B. The lower portion 88B corresponds to a progressive reduction in the width of the main faces 80 and 82, the width being measured along the transverse axis Y1 and the reduction being carried out from the central portions 86A and 86B towards the lower rounded end 87B along the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0027] Link 8 defines an eyelet 81, inside the outer edge 84, passing completely through link 8, from the main face 80 to the main face 82, i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal plane. The eyelet 81 is advantageously rectangular. The eyelet 81 has an upper edge 811 and a lower edge 812, the upper edge 811 and / or the lower edge 812 being advantageously flat and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0028] A height h81 of the eyelet 81, measured parallel to the longitudinal axis Z1, is advantageously 6 mm. The height h81 is at least five times greater than the larger diameter between a diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 and a diameter d85 of the lower hole 85, and strictly greater than twice a width l81 of the eyelet 81, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Z1. Over the entire height h81 of the eyelet 81, the width l81 of the eyelet 81 is strictly greater than the larger diameter between the diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 and the diameter d85 of the lower hole 85; advantageously, the width l81 of the eyelet is 2.5 to 3.5 times the larger diameter between the diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 and the diameter d85 of the lower hole 85. Advantageously, the diameter d83 and the diameter d85 are equal to 1.1 mm. The bulk of the link 8 in a plane parallel to the longitudinal plane therefore remains only slightly impacted by the arrangement of the upper holes 83 and lower holes 85.

[0029] Within the outer edge 84, the link 8 also defines the upper hole 83, through which the upper loop 67A of the upper body 62A passes, and the lower hole 85, through which the lower loop 67B of the lower body 62B passes. Holes 83 and 85 are positioned on either side of the eyelet 81 in the direction of the longitudinal axis Z1. Holes 83 and 85 are formed outside the eyelet 81.

[0030] The upper hole 83 and the lower hole 85 pass through the link 8 from one side to the other perpendicular to the longitudinal plane, connecting the two main faces 80 and 82 of the link.

[0031] The upper hole 83 passes through the upper portion 88A of the link. The diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 is greater than the thickness e8 of the link 8; advantageously, the diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 is 2 to 2.5 times the thickness e8 of the link 8. The diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 is greater than or equal to twice, preferably 2.5 times, the diameter d62A of the upper body 62A, and is preferably less than 3.5 times the diameter d62A of the upper body 62A. These dimensional relationships ensure that the upper body 62A can pivot within the upper hole 83 when the link 8 is pushed by the warp threads 4 along the feed direction X1 and / or in the longitudinal plane during weaving. Thus, the stress on the Jacquard 6 rail in bending does not induce a risk of breakage at the connection between the link 8 and the upper body 62A.

[0032] The upper rounded edge 87A is centered on the upper hole 83 and extends over at least 100°, preferably 120°, symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis Z1 and with a tolerance of plus or minus 20°. The difference in radii between the upper rounded edge 87A and the upper hole 83 is equal to the thickness e8 of the link 8, preferably 1 to 1.25 times the thickness e8 of the link 8.

[0033] The lower hole 85 passes through the lower portion 88B of the link. The diameter d85 of the lower hole 85 is greater than the thickness e8 of the link 8; advantageously, the diameter d85 of the lower hole 85 is 2 to 2.5 times the thickness e8 of the link 8. The diameter d85 of the lower hole 85 is greater than or equal to twice, preferably 2.5 times, the diameter d62B of the lower body 62B, and is preferably less than 3.5 times the diameter d62B of the lower body 62B. These dimensional relationships ensure that the lower body 62B can pivot in the lower hole 85 when the link 8 is pushed by the warp threads 4 along the feed direction X1 and / or perpendicular to the feed direction X1 during weaving. Thus, the stress on the Jacquard 6 rail in bending does not induce a risk of breakage at the connection between the link 8 and the upper body 62A.

[0034] The lower rounding 87B is centered on the lower hole 85 and extends over at least 100°, preferably 120°, symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis Z1 and with a tolerance of plus or minus 20°. The difference in radii between the lower rounding 87B and the lower hole 85 is equal to the thickness e8 of the link 8, preferably 1 to 1.25 times the thickness e8 of the link 8.

[0035] During weaving, since the eyelet 81 is rectangular, the warp yarn 4, especially when it is multi-filament and flat, cooperates optimally with the eyelet 81 which it passes through, especially with the lower edge 812 and the upper edge 811. In particular, the warp yarn 4 cooperates with the minimum deformation of the cross-section of the warp yarn 4.

[0036] Since the free opening 671B of the lower loop 67B of the lower body 62B around the link 8 is maximal and / or since the main faces 80 and 82 of the link 8 are flat around the lower hole 85, it is possible for the link 8 and the lower body 62B to take on different inclinations, some of which are visible on the figure 5 , to adapt to the forces exerted by the neighboring warp threads 4 on the Jacquard heddle 6 and to the warp thread 4 guided by the Jacquard heddle 6. This adaptation therefore occurs with a minimum of stress between the lower body 62B and the link 8.

[0037] Indeed, due to the circular section of the lower body 62B and the circular section of the lower hole 85, without a concavity being formed by the lower hole 85, and their respective dimensions, the orientation of the lower body 62B in the lower hole 85 is favoured and jamming is avoided.

[0038] Furthermore, due to the monofilament structure of the lower body 62B and therefore its constant cross-section over its entire length, the orientation of the link 8, in particular of the main faces 80 and 82, with respect to the second wire 65B occurs without jamming.

[0039] In addition, the lower loop 67B is not constrained by the thickness e8 of the link 8 during deformation out of the longitudinal plane thanks to the relatively small thickness e8 of the link 8 and the minimal difference in radii between the lower rounding 87B and the lower hole 85.

[0040] Finally, due to the monofilament structure of the second yarn 65B, which forms the lower body 62B and constitutes the only link between the link 8 and the lower end connector 60B, contact with the lower body 62B does not cause a neighboring multifilament warp yarn 4 to snag. Furthermore, since the lower rounding 87B extends widely around the lower hole 85, when the lower body 62B is oriented relative to the link 8 in the longitudinal plane, the sliding of the warp yarns 4 adjacent to the Jacquard heddle 6 of the link 8 towards the lower body 62B and from the lower body 62B towards the link 8 is facilitated.

[0041] Since the free opening 671A of the upper loop 67A of the upper body 62A around the link 8 is maximal and / or since the main faces 80 and 82 of the link 8 are flat around the upper hole 83, it is possible for the link 8 and the upper body 62A to take on different inclinations, to adapt to the forces exerted by the neighboring warp threads 4 on the Jacquard heddle 6 and to the warp thread 6 guided by the Jacquard heddle 6. This adaptation occurs with a minimum of stress between the upper body 62A and the link 8.

[0042] Indeed, due to the circular section of the upper body 62A and the circular section of the upper hole 83, without a concavity being formed by the upper hole 83, and their respective dimensions, the orientation of the upper body 62A in the upper hole 83 is favoured and jamming is avoided.

[0043] Furthermore, due to the monofilament upper body structure 62A and therefore its constant cross-section over its entire length, the orientation of the link 8, in particular of the main faces 80 and 82, with respect to the first wire 65A occurs without jamming.

[0044] In addition, the upper loop 67A is not constrained by the thickness e8 of the link 8 during deformation out of the longitudinal plane thanks to the relatively small thickness e8 of the link 8 and the minimal difference in radii between the upper rounding 87A and the upper hole 83.

[0045] Finally, due to the monofilament structure of the yarn forming the upper body 62A, which constitutes the sole link between the link 8 and the upper end connector 60A, contact with the upper body 62A does not cause a snag on a neighboring multifilament warp yarn 4. Furthermore, since the upper curve 87A extends widely around the upper hole 83, when the upper body 62A is oriented relative to the link in the longitudinal plane, the sliding of the warp yarns 4 adjacent to the Jacquard heddle 6 of the link 8 towards the upper body 62A and from the upper body 62A towards the link 8 is facilitated.

[0046] The sheath 70B and the tube 61B form part of the connection between the lower body 62B and the lower end connector 60B. The sheath 70B, forming the outer part of this connection, helps to make this connection as smooth as possible, without snagging the neighboring warp threads 4, and protects the tube 61B and the hook 66B from corrosion due to the external environment, for example, in the case of weaving with water. The sheath 70B, by extending around the second thread 65B beyond the tube 61B towards the link 8, limits the free opening 671B along the longitudinal axis Z1 towards the lower end connector 60B.

[0047] The sheath 70A and the tube 61A form part of the connection between the upper body 62A and the upper end connector 60A. The sheath 70A, forming the outer part of this connection, helps to make this connection as smooth as possible, without snagging the neighboring warp threads 4, and protects the tube 61A and the hook 66A from corrosion due to the external environment, for example, in the case of weaving with water. The sheath 70A, by extending around the first thread 65A beyond the tube 61A towards the link 8, limits the free opening 671A along the longitudinal axis Z1 towards the upper end connector 60A.

[0048] Alternatively, depending on the textile application and the warp yarns 4 to be woven, the metal link can be made of ceramic or plastic rather than metal. Furthermore, the first yarn 65A of the upper body 62A can be made of a material other than nylon, preferably another thermoplastic polymer such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or of metal, advantageously stainless steel. The second yarn 65B of the lower body 62B can also be made of a material other than nylon, preferably another thermoplastic polymer such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or of metal, advantageously stainless steel.

[0049] Alternatively, the lower body 62B is formed exclusively from a second 65B monofilament metal wire and / or the upper body 62A is formed exclusively from a first 65A monofilament metal wire. The end portions 69B of the lower body 62B are joined to the hook 66B by welding and / or the end portions 69A of the upper body 62A are joined to the hook 66A by welding.

[0050] A 62A upper body or a 62B lower body made of nylon or stainless steel is compatible with carbon warp threads.

[0051] Link 8 is advantageously produced by cutting a sheet of metal. The upper hole 83, the lower hole 85, the eyelet 81 and the outer edge 84 are cut and then deburred to limit snagging of the chain threads 4.

[0052] After overmolding and folding of the hook 66B, the tube 61B is placed between the fastener 63B and the housing 68B with a possibility of longitudinal movement along the longitudinal axis Z1 relative to the hook 66B.

[0053] When the tube 61B is in longitudinal abutment against the body 64B, the tube 61B is offset longitudinally, along the longitudinal axis Z1, relative to the housing 68B.

[0054] During the manufacture of the Jacquard heddle 6, the lower body 62B is passed through the lower hole 85 of the link 8 to form the lower loop 67B, visible on the figure 5 , around link 8. The end portions 69B of the lower body 62B are linked with a lower end connector 60B.

[0055] As seen on the figure 7 The end portions 69B of the lower body 62B are engaged, preferably in the same direction, through the housing 68B, via the housing 68B of the hook 66B of the lower end connector 60B, to ensure the correct length of the lower body 62B. Then, the free ends of the lower body 62B are folded down towards the link 8 from the housing 68B. The tube 61B is then moved longitudinally along the longitudinal axis Z1 towards the link 8 around the housing 68B and partially around the two end portions 69B. The funnel facilitates this insertion movement around the housing 68B. The external collar 612B provides support for the tube 61B during its longitudinal movement. The inner surface of the tube 61B presses the end portions 69B of the lower body 62B against the hook 66B.The tube 61B is then plastically deformed around the housing 68B, preferably with a crush in the direction perpendicular to the through direction of the housing 68B before crushing the tube 61B, tightening the hook 66B around the end portions 69B of the lower body 62B to accentuate the clamping of the end portions 69B of the lower body 62B in the housing 68B. The free ends of the lower body 62B, not shown, protruding from the tube 61B are cut off and a heat-shrinkable sleeve, intended to form the sheath 70B, is placed around the tube 61B, the hook 66B, and partially around the body 64B and the second wire 65B and then heated to surround the tube 61B and the lower end connector 60B without play by heat shrinking. The connection of the lower body 62B with the lower end connector 60B therefore includes a blocking of the end portions 69B relative to the lower end connector 60B by means of the tube 61B.After this connection, the body 64B extends beyond the end portions 69B along the longitudinal axis Z1 in a direction opposite to the link 8. Preferably, the housing 68B is through along the transverse axis Y1 and the maximum lateral dimension d68B is arranged perpendicular to the transverse axis Y1.

[0056] After overmolding and folding of the hook 66A, the tube 61A is placed between the fastener 63A and the housing 68A with a possibility of longitudinal movement along the longitudinal axis Z1 relative to the hook 66A.

[0057] When the tube 61A is in longitudinal abutment against the body 64A, the tube 61A is offset longitudinally, along the longitudinal axis Z1, relative to the housing 68A.

[0058] During the manufacture of the Jacquard heddle 6, the upper body 62A is passed through the upper hole 83 of the link 8 to form the upper loop 67A, visible on the figure 5 , around link 8. The end portions 69A of the upper body 62A are linked with an upper end connector 60A.

[0059] The end portions 69A of the upper body 62A are engaged, preferably in the same direction through the housing 68A, via the housing 68A of the hook 66A of the upper end connector 60A, to ensure the correct length of the upper body 62A. Then, the free ends of the upper body 62A are folded down towards the link 8 from the housing 68A. The tube 61A is then moved longitudinally along the longitudinal axis Z1 towards the link 8 around the housing 68A and partially around the two end portions 69A. The funnel facilitates this insertion movement around the housing 68A. The external collar 612A provides support for the tube 61A during its longitudinal movement. The inner surface of the tube 61A presses the end portions 69A of the upper body 62A against the hook 66A.Tube 61A is then plastically deformed around housing 68A, preferably by crushing it in the direction perpendicular to the through-direction of housing 68A before crushing tube 61A, tightening hook 66A around the end portions 69A of the upper body 62A to accentuate the clamping of the end portions 69A of the upper body 62A in housing 68A. The free ends of the upper body 62A, not shown, protruding from tube 61A are cut off, and a heat-shrink sleeve, intended to form sheath 70A, is placed around tube 61A, hook 66A, and partially around body 64A and the first wire 65A, then heated to snugly surround tube 61A and the upper end connector 60A by heat shrinking. The connection of the upper body 62A with the upper end connector 60A therefore includes a blocking of the end portions 69A relative to the upper end connector 60A by means of the tube 61A.After this connection, the body 64A extends beyond the end portions 69A along the longitudinal axis Z1 in a direction opposite to the link 8. Preferably, the housing 68A is through along the transverse axis Y1 and the maximum lateral dimension is arranged perpendicular to the transverse axis Y1.

[0060] Alternatively, the diameter d83 of the upper hole 83, respectively the diameter d85 of the inner hole 85, is less than or equal to 6 times, preferably 5.5 times, the diameter d62A of the upper body 62A, respectively the diameter d62B of the lower body 62B. The diameters d62A and d62B are, for example, equal to 0.2 mm and the diameters d85 and d83 are equal to 1.1 mm.

[0061] There figure 8 This illustrates a second embodiment of the Jacquard heddle 6, identical to the first embodiment except for the characteristics described below. The second wire 65B of the lower body 62B is a round, monofilament wire of constant cross-section along its entire length, without twists or undulations, made of stainless steel, with a diameter d62B less than 0.5 times the diameter d85 of the lower hole 85 in which the lower body 62B is engaged. After inserting the lower body 62B into the lower hole 85 of the link 8 to form the Jacquard heddle 6 of the correct length, the end portions 69B of the lower body 62B are shaped, advantageously with a wavy form, and overmolded into the body 64B of the lower end connector 60B. The first 65A wire of the upper body 62A is a round monofilament wire of constant cross-section throughout its length, without twist or undulation, made of stainless steel, with a diameter d62A less than 0.5 times the diameter d83 of the upper hole 83 into which the upper body 62A is engaged. After inserting the upper body 62A into the upper hole 83 of the link 8 to form the Jacquard spool 6 of the correct length, the end portions 69A of the upper body 62A are shaped, advantageously with a wave-like form, and overmolded into the body 64A of the upper end connector 60A. The shaping of each end portion 69B, 69A can also be carried out before inserting the lower body 62B into the lower hole 85 and the upper body 62A into the upper hole 83. After overmolding, a sleeve of the heat-shrink tubing type 70A, respectively 70B, can be placed around the body 64A, respectively the body 64B, and partially around the first wire 65A, respectively partially around the second wire 65B.

[0062] In an unshown variant, the two end portions of one of the upper body 62A and the lower body 62B are formed and overmolded into the body of the associated end connector while the two end portions of the other of the upper body 62A and the lower body 62B are connected to the associated end connector via a tube, as in the first embodiment.

[0063] There figure 9 illustrates a third embodiment of the Jacquard heddle 6, identical to the first embodiment except for the features described below. A closed housing 71B is formed directly in the polymer body 64B of the lower end connector 60B and / or a closed housing, not shown, is formed directly in the polymer body 64A of the upper end connector 60A. The closed housing of body 64A and the closed housing 71B of body 64B receive, respectively, the upper body 62A and the lower body 62B for their connection with, respectively, the upper end connector 60A and the lower end connector 60B. A tube 61B, shown in dashed lines on the figure 9A tube 61A, similar to the tube 61A of the first embodiment, is adapted to be moved longitudinally around the closed housing 71B of the body 64B for the connection between the lower body 62B and the lower end connector 60B. A tube 61A, similar to the tube 61A of the first embodiment, is adapted to be moved longitudinally around the closed housing of the body 64A for the connection between the upper body 62A and the upper end connector 60A.

[0064] In all embodiments, the first monofilament yarn, and the second monofilament yarn respectively, consists of a single solid, round filament whose diameter corresponds to the yarn diameter along its entire length. A nylon monofilament yarn is obtained directly by extruding the polymer through a hole whose diameter corresponds to the yarn diameter. A metallic monofilament yarn is obtained directly by drawing wire to obtain a diameter corresponding to the yarn diameter. A monofilament yarn within the meaning of the invention excludes any yarn obtained by braiding or twisting several filaments and is not intended to be braided or twisted with another yarn. In particular, a metallic monofilament yarn excludes any braided cable.

[0065] Any feature described above for an embodiment or variant is applicable to the other embodiments and variants described above, insofar as this is technically possible and remains within the scope of the protection of the annexed claims.

Claims

1. A Jacquard heddle (6) for guiding a warp thread (4) for a Jacquard loom (1), the Jacquard heddle (6) extending along a longitudinal axis (Z1) and comprising: o a link (8), comprising a convex outer edge (84) and two flat, parallel and opposite main faces (80, 82), the link (8) being traversed, from one of the main faces (80, 82) to the other, by an eye (81) for the passage of the warp thread (4), by an upper hole (83) and by a lower hole (85), the upper hole (83) and the lower hole (85) being arranged on both sides of the eye (81) along the longitudinal axis (Z1); o a first wire (65A), engaging the upper hole (83) and forming an upper loop (67A); and ∘ a second wire (65B), which is distinct from the first wire (65A) and which is engaged in the lower hole (85) forming a lower loop (67B); ∘ the Jacquard heddle (6) comprises an upper end connector (60A), comprising means of connection to a first element of a Jacquard harness (3), two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A) being connected to the upper end connector (60A); ∘ the Jacquard heddle (6) comprises a lower end connector (60B), comprising means of connection to a second element of the Jacquard harness (3), two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B) being connected to the lower end connector (60B); o the upper hole (83) has a circular cross-section; and o the lower hole (85) has a circular cross-section. characterized in that: o the upper loop (67A) delimits a free opening (671A) extending, along the longitudinal axis (Z1), from the upper hole (83) to the connection of the two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A) with the upper end connector (60A); ∘ the lower loop (67B) delimits a free opening (671B) extending, along the longitudinal axis (Z1), from the lower hole (85) to the connection of the two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B) with the lower end connector (60B); ∘ the first wire (65A) is the only connection between the link (8) and the upper end connector (60A) and is a single filament wire of constant diameter (d62A); and ∘ the second wire (65B) is the only connection between the link (8) and the lower end connector (60B) and is a single-filament wire of constant diameter (d62B).

2. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to claim 1, wherein: ∘ a diameter (d83) of the upper hole (83) is greater than or equal to twice, preferentially 2.5 times, the diameter (d62A) of the first wire (65A); and o a diameter (d85) of the lower hole (85) is greater than or equal to twice, preferentially 2.5 times, the diameter (d62B) of the second wire (65B).

3. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 or 2, wherein the thickness (e8) of the link (8), measured from one of the main faces (80, 82) to the other, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Z1), is less than twice the smallest diameter between the diameter (d62A) of the first wire (65A) and the diameter (d62B) of the second wire (65B).

4. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outer edge (84) of the link (8) comprises two central portions (86A, 86B) which extend along the longitudinal axis (Z1) and an upper portion (88A), respectively a lower portion (88B), ending with an upper rounded portion (87A), respectively a lower rounded portion (87B), and wherein the upper portion (88A), respectively the lower portion (88B), corresponds to a progressive reduction in width of the main faces (80, 82) from the central portions (86A, 86B) toward the upper rounded portion (87A), respectively the lower rounded portion (87B), the width being taken along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Z1) and parallel to the main faces (80, 82).

5. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to claim 4, wherein: ∘ the upper rounding (87A) is centered on the upper hole (83) and extends at least 100° around the center of the upper hole (83); and ∘ the lower rounded portion (87B) is centered on the lower hole (85) and extends over at least 100° around the center of the lower hole (85).

6. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein a height (h81) of the eye (81), measured parallel to the longitudinal axis (Z1), is at least five times greater than a largest diameter between a diameter (d83) of the upper hole (83) and a diameter (d85) of the lower hole (85).

7. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the link (8) is made of metal, preferably of stainless steel.

8. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the eye (81) comprises an upper edge (811) and a lower edge (812), delimiting the eye (81) along the longitudinal axis (Z1), the upper edge (811) and the lower edge (812) being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Z1) and wherein a width (l81) of the eye (81) is strictly greater than the largest diameter between the diameter (d83) of the upper hole (83) and the diameter (d85) of the lower hole (85), preferably 2.5 to 3.5 times greater.

9. The Jacquard heddle (6) of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first wire (65A) and the second wire (65B) are made of Nylon.

10. The Jacquard heddle (6) of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first wire (65A) and the second wire (65B) are made of metal.

11. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to claim 10, wherein: ∘ The upper end connector (60A) is made of a polymer material, overmolded on the two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A); and ∘ the lower end connector (60B) is made of polymer material, overmolded on the two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B).

12. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein: ∘ the upper end connector (60A) comprises a housing (68A) extending through along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Z1) for the partial reception of the two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A), which are connected thereto; and ∘ the lower end connector (60B), comprises a housing (68B) extending through along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Z1) for the partial reception of the two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B) which are connected thereto.

13. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to claim 12, wherein: ∘ the connection between the two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A) and the upper end connector (60A) comprises a tube (61A), arranged around the housing (68A) and pressing the two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A) into contact with the upper end connector (60A); and ∘ the connection between the two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B) and the lower end connector (60B) comprises a tube (61B), arranged around the housing (68B) and pressing the two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B) into contact with the lower end connector (60B).

14. The Jacquard heddle (6) according to any of claims 1 to 13, wherein: ∘ the connection between the two end portions (69A) of the first wire (65A) and the upper end connector (60A) comprises an outer sheath (70A) which is partially arranged around the upper end connector (60A) and the first wire (65A); and ∘ the connection between the two end portions (69B) of the second wire (65B) and the lower end connector (60B) comprises an outer sheath (70B) which is partially arranged around the lower end connector (60B) and the second wire (65B).

15. A Jacquard loom (1) comprising a plurality of Jacquard heddles (6), characterized in that at least one of the Jacquard heddles (6) is according to any of claims 1 to 14.

Images