Insertion part of a textile machine, packaging for at least one insertion part, method for supplying a textile machine with at least one insertion part and for operating said textile machine, system for the further processing of textile materials

Abstract

The present invention relates to an insertion part (1) of a textile machine, to a packaging for at least one insertion part of a textile machine, to a method for supplying a textile machine with at least one insertion part and for operating said textile machine, and to a system for the further processing of textile materials, said system comprising a textile machine and at least one insertion part for the operation of said textile machine, wherein the at least one insertion part is in the form of either a textile tool (1) or a system part (1), wherein the at least one insertion part (1) is connected, at the start of the equipping, at least to a handling part (7) by means of a predetermined breaking connection (9) which can be manually disconnected without the use of tools, wherein the insertion part can be handled by means of the handling part (7) during the equipping of the textile machine and wherein the predetermined breaking connection (9) can be disconnected.

Description

Insert part of a textile machine, packaging for at least one insert part, method for supplying a textile machine with at least one insert part and for operating it, system for further processing textile materials

[0001] The present invention relates to an insert part of a textile machine, a packaging for at least one insert part of a textile machine, a method for supplying a textile machine with at least one insert part and for operating the same, and a system for further processing textile materials, comprising a textile machine and at least one insert part for operating this textile machine.

[0002] It is known to insert components into textile machines and use them for the production of textiles. These components include textile tools. Textile tools have in common that they extend longitudinally between a front and a rear end. Often, textile tools, as defined in this publication, are very elongated, meaning their longitudinal extent is much greater than their extent in the other two spatial directions.

[0003] At a certain distance from the rear end of these textile tools begins a working section of the tool, designed for yarn contact and / or stitch formation. In knitting needles, a large (rear) section is designed to glide in the needle channels of a knitting machine. The hook, which forms stitches during the knitting process, is located in the front section of such knitting needles. The hook and the front part of the knitting needle, which comes into contact with the yarn, constitute its working section.

[0004] Knitting needles also include so-called slider needles, in which a slider, which glides along the shaft of the needle during knitting, opens and closes the hook of the needle and participates in the transport of the half stitches during knitting. Thus, the slider is also in contact with the yarn during knitting and is subject to the above. Definition of a textile tool. Among others, WO 2016 165 991 A deals with such sliders.

[0005] Often, so-called boards are also used for knitting; these also have a working section in their front area that has contact with the yarn during the knitting process and, among other things, holds down or knocks down stitches.

[0006] Knitting needles are usually attached to a bar at their back end. They also have a hook at their front end for forming stitches. Other textile tools are also known to be used in stitch-forming machines. For example, various machine manufacturers use a range of different tools in sock knitting machines to close the foot ends of the socks:

[0007] Very common are transfer pieces, often referred to as "spillo" (singular) or "spilli" (plural). These pieces often have a pointed front end, which is used to engage the stitches at the end of the sock fabric, which is still in its tubular form, so that the sock fabric can be processed without stitch retention for the next step, namely sewing the foot end closed. Pieces of this type are shown, for example, in CN20685196 U.

[0008] EP 2 873 761 Bl also shows parts used in connection with closing socks and refers to them, among other things, as "transfer devices," "transfer members," and "strip members." These textile tools, used in sock closure devices, are often very small and difficult to handle, especially considering the intricate nature of sock knitting. For the purposes of this publication, in addition to the aforementioned stitch-forming and stitch-handling tools, sewing and felting needles are also considered textile tools.

[0009] In addition to textile tools, system components are also used as insert parts in textile machines. These system components are not in direct contact with the machine or fabric during operation; however, they transmit the force or torque required for the textile process to the textile tools (drive), or they contribute to the selection of textile tools during the process (selection component). Force or torque is also often transmitted for the latter purpose (selection). An example of the transmission of force or torque for... The drive of downstream textile tools is called WO 2020 / 250088 Al, which introduces “flat parts” that transfer power to knitting needles in knitting operations.

[0010] As an example of a selection component, where the insert participates in the selection of textile tools during knitting and thus enables, for example, the production of patterned textiles (such as Jacquard knitting), EP 859881 Bl is cited: here it is a "circuit board for the selection and control of stitch-forming movements of knitting tools in a knitting machine" that participates in the selection of textile tools in the textile production process in the aforementioned manner. Another relatively clear example is provided by US 4,644,762 A. In its Figure 1, a selection component (here "jack") with the reference numeral "SCH" is shown. The selection component has feet (butts) to which force can be transmitted during knitting, e.g., from the tie-on components. This force can be transferred by the selection component, via its front end, to the needle "N" through another system component without a reference numeral.For this purpose, all three of the aforementioned parts are slidably inserted into the grooves of the needle channel cylinder (reference 51 in US 4,644,762). The dimensions and working position of this selection part are thus very similar to the dimensions and working position of the textile tool "Needle N," and therefore, the same applies to loading the needle cylinder with these system parts as to loading with textile tools: it is laborious and time-consuming.

[0011] In summary, the aforementioned components (system parts and textile tools) have a number of similarities:

[0012] Typically, these components are separated by stamping them out of sheet metal at the beginning of their production. They are often inserted into narrow guide channels, where they are frequently held in a sliding position. As already mentioned, inserting many of these components presents the fitters or operators of the respective textile machines with challenges:

[0013] The initial fitting with insert parts and the replacement of defective insert parts with new ones is difficult.

[0014] Against this background, EP 3 889 330 A1 aims to improve the manufacture and handling of a textile tool pair by connecting the two textile tools of the tool pair via a predetermined breaking point. The teaching of the aforementioned publication does indeed have its advantages with regard to specific textile tools. However, it has been shown that there are numerous insert parts for textile machines where the handling of the insert parts during their insertion into the machine is problematic. A textile machine requires further improvements. Therefore, the object of the present invention is to further facilitate the supply and loading of textile machines with insert parts and the operation of the textile machines.

[0015] This problem is solved by claims 1, 7, 10 and 14 of the present publication.

[0016] The measures proposed in this publication result in each insert being connected to (at least) one handling part, which assists in inserting the insert into the machine but does not itself need to be inserted into the machine. Furthermore, it has been shown that the freedom of shape (of the handling part) required by the present invention offers further advantages in handling the inserts.

[0017] As already mentioned, the longitudinal direction (z) of an insert is the direction in which the insert, remaining in the textile machine after separation at the predetermined breaking point, has its greatest extent. In the longitudinal direction, the insert extends between its front and one rear end. The insert also extends in the other two spatial directions, in which it typically has a significantly smaller extent. The extent of the insert in the lateral direction is often determined by the fineness of the fabric, particularly in the case of stitch-forming tools, and is therefore small. The extent in the vertical direction is particularly important in the case of... Mesh-forming tools are naturally significantly larger than their width-direction extent, but still considerably smaller than their width-direction extent. Longitudinal direction.

[0018] As mentioned in the introduction, the insert can be a textile tool. Such textile tools have working sections located at the front of the tool. These working sections are therefore separated from the rear end. They are in contact with the yarn or fabric being processed and, in the case of stitch-forming tools, are used for stitch formation. For knitting needles, this includes the entire hook area and the area on which the half-stitch moves during knitting on the top of the needle. For other textile tools, such as the "spillo" (a tool for fastening socks) described above, the working area naturally includes the tip of the spillo and the portion of its shaft adjacent to the tip. Working area. The parts of the respective textile tools that come into contact with thread or fabric during the operation of textile machines are known to the expert. In the case of needles, the tip and the part of the shaft that penetrates the fabric during sewing belong to the working area.

[0019] Regarding the use of the term "system component," reference is made to the preceding introductory passages concerning the prior art. System components, as used in this publication, serve to select or drive textile tools. In knitting machines, such system components are often inserted into the same grooves as knitting needles or plates and thus have the same "thickness," i.e., the same width as defined above. System components have working sections that transmit force or torque to textile tools or other system components. They therefore usually also have sections that initially absorb this force or torque. These sections can be designed like the feet of knitting needles. Often, however, they are the front and rear ends of the system components.System components transmit force or torque directly or indirectly (via one or more other system components) to textile tools, thus either enabling the selection of the same or driving the textile tools.

[0020] According to the present invention, the insert part, upon delivery by its manufacturer or seller, has a connection to a handling part via a predetermined breaking point. This handling part can be of any shape, and in particular, can differ from the shape of the insert part. It can therefore be significantly larger than the insert part, which is often very delicate. The freedom of shape of the handling part according to the present invention (compared to EP 3 889 330 A1) naturally also makes it easier to position the predetermined breaking point precisely at the location that facilitates the insertion of the insert part into the textile machine as much as possible. There are application situations for insert parts where the predetermined breaking point is not located at the rear end of the insert part, but at another location.Furthermore, the handling part, or the unit consisting of the handling part and the insert part, can also have a longitudinal axis that forms an angle, preferably a right angle, in the rear region (i.e., in particular the region of the handling part). Especially with knitting needles and dies that are inserted into rib stitches or knitting cylinders, it can be advantageous if the insert part has a longitudinal extension, particularly in the vertical direction of the aforementioned textile. The tool or system component has a predetermined breaking point. In this case, an additional or further advantageous option is to provide the predetermined breaking point at the upper edge of the textile tool or system component. When the unit in question, consisting of the insert and the handling part, is thus inserted into a ribbed disc or a knitting cylinder, the handling part projects beyond the needle channel in which the insert is located, in the same vertical direction, so that the handling part can perform a pivoting movement with components in the vertical and horizontal directions of the textile tool, which separates the predetermined breaking point. In this case, the pivoting axis of the aforementioned movement advantageously runs in the longitudinal direction of the textile tool and along its upper edge.The pivoting movement is particularly unimpeded and therefore advantageous when the position of the predetermined breaking point, in the vertical direction of the insert, is above or at the same level as the upper edge of the needle channel. A machine operator can also achieve this situation if the distance between the predetermined breaking point and the lower boundary of the insert, in the vertical direction of the insert, is less than the height of the groove-like channel in which the insert occupies its working position: in this case, the machine operator inserts the insert "from above" into the groove-like channel until the predetermined breaking point is located just above or at the level of the upper edge of the groove-like channel walls. The machine operator then performs the pivoting movements to separate the predetermined breaking point.Finally, the insert slides into its working position and the part of the predetermined breaking point that remains on the insert does not obstruct any other textile machine part.

[0021] Another useful option is to coordinate the insert parts and the textile machines in question so that the remaining portion of the insert part (the breaking point) after the predetermined breaking point is released does not collide with parts of the textile machine during operation. In this case, an advantageous measure is to position the breaking point vertically along the insert part so that it is located above or at the same level as the upper edge of the needle channel, but below the locking mechanism of the textile machine in question, when the insert part has already reached the bottom of the groove-like channel. The breaking point can then be released once the insert part has reached its final position vertically.

[0022] Another advantageous option is to position the predetermined breaking point on or at the base of the insert part. In the latter case, the part of the predetermined breaking point that remains on the insert part then becomes part of the base and slides through the locking components of the textile machine – preferably a knitting machine – during operation.

[0023] Furthermore, each insert designed according to the present invention can be inserted into the textile machine in question using a suitable handling element. When applying the teaching according to EP 3 889 330 A1, one plate always remains per knitting tool pair, which must be inserted in the conventional manner – i.e., without a handling aid.

[0024] The predetermined breaking point, as defined in the present invention, is a point where the insert and the handling part are connected and is designed such that it yields more easily under load or is easier to separate than the adjacent parts of the insert and the handling part. The predetermined breaking point can be separated manually and without tools to facilitate the assembly or insertion of the insert. A predetermined breaking point can be achieved, for example, by reducing the material cross-section and / or by altering the material properties at the predetermined breaking point—such as by embrittlement of the metal. The separation of the predetermined breaking point can be effected, in particular, by rotating the handling part about an axis of rotation or by tilting the handling part about a bending axis. Advantageously, in the case of multiple inserts, the bending axis runs along the vertical direction of the insert.The orientation of the bending axis has at least components in the vertical direction and may optionally also include components in the other spatial directions – preferably the longitudinal direction. For the rotational axis, it is advantageous if it contains at least components in the longitudinal direction and optionally also components in the other spatial directions.

[0025] The handling part is shaped in such a way that it cannot be used as an insert part in the textile machine in question. Preferably, its shape is simple and corresponds to a rectangular tab. This tab often has a projection—which could also be described as a crossbar—that extends from the tab, preferably at a right angle in a positive or negative vertical direction. Particularly in conjunction with small insert parts, it is advantageous if the insert part remaining in the machine after the predetermined breaking point is smaller than the handling part. A greater length of the handling part generally aids in the separation of the predetermined breaking point due to the leverage effect. Especially with parts manufactured from sheet metal by stamping, this generally means that the handling part, in the plane defined by the longitudinal and vertical directions of the insert, advantageously has a larger area than the insert that remains in the machine after the predetermined breaking point is reached. It is advantageous if the entire unit, consisting of the insert and the handling part, is produced in a single manufacturing process. This means that the entire part, for example, is stamped from a sheet of metal and then passes through the processing stations necessary for the production of, say, knitting needles. The end result is an insert that is integrally connected to the handling part, with the aforementioned material weakening—which can also consist of chemically or physically induced embrittlement—present at the predetermined breaking point.The handling part and the insert part are advantageously made of the same material.

[0026] It is advantageous if the handling part has a larger area in the plane spanned by the longitudinal direction and a second spatial direction of the insertion part than the remaining part of the insertion part.

[0027] Especially with stitch-forming tools, it is advantageous if the second spatial direction spanning this plane, in addition to the longitudinal direction, is the vertical direction. The described measure is particularly advantageous when the insert is very small. With very long knitting needles or similar parts, it can be advantageous if the surface area of ​​the handling part is much shorter than the knitting needle, but correspondingly, the extent in the second spatial direction is much larger (as mentioned, advantageously, the vertical extent). In this way, a surface area even larger than the side surface of the knitting needle can be achieved.

[0028] It is equally advantageous if the material of the handling part and the insertion part has the same thickness in a third spatial direction, which is advantageously the width direction, particularly in the case of mesh forming tools.

[0029] It is also advantageous if, when the predetermined breaking point is closed, the handling part extends the insert part in the longitudinal direction of the insert part. The predetermined breaking point is advantageously located at one end of the insert part where its longitudinal direction ends.

[0030] It is advantageous that the units shown in this publication, consisting of an insert part and a handling part, have exactly one insert part. This single insert part is Advantageously, exactly one handling part is usually assigned to each unit. Assigning several (N) handling parts to exactly one insert part can also be advantageous in order to reliably position the insert part in its working position in the textile machine. Typically, the N handling parts with M predetermined breaking points are connected to at least one—advantageously exactly one—insert part. Advantageously, N equals M. With units of the aforementioned type, the insert part can be individually positioned in its working position. Units consisting of an insert part and a handling part are advantageous if at least one insert part and one handling part—advantageously all these parts comprising the unit—are manufactured as a single piece. The advantageous manufacturing method for such units is stamping the entire unit, or at least parts of it, from sheet metal.The relevant units, consisting of the insert part and the handling part, are provided with predetermined breaking points at the boundaries between these parts. These predetermined breaking points are advantageously also one-piece, i.e., formed from the same workpiece as the insert and handling parts. This eliminates the need for any other material, such as adhesive. It is advantageous if the insert part is fully manufactured after its insertion into the textile machine and the breaking point(s) are removed, allowing it to participate directly in the textile manufacturing process. Advantageously, the aforementioned handling parts are not spacers that hold insert parts at a distance largely corresponding to their spacing in their working position within the textile machine. Rather, it has proven advantageous to individually insert specific parts into the textile machines.This works particularly well if at least one insert part and at least one handling part associated with the insert part are made of flat material, with the large outer surfaces of the flat material of the insert part and the handling part lying in one plane.

[0031] The supply and loading of textile machines with insert parts and the operation of the textile machines is also improved by packaging for at least one insert part of a textile machine, which contains the at least one insert part and at least partially encloses the at least one insert part, if the at least one insert part is designed in the manner already mentioned above.

[0032] Additional advantages arise, • if the insert is at least partially enclosed by the packaging in its transport position, • if the packaging has at least one dispensing opening for at least one insert part, • and if the dispensing opening opens the packaging in the direction in which the handling part is connected to the insert part via the predetermined breaking point.

[0033] As a result, removing the insert part, which is connected to the handling part, from the packaging for machine loading is facilitated, since the handling part can be grasped directly while the insert part is still inside the packaging. Handling the insert part, which is still connected to the handling part, is further simplified if the handling part protrudes from the packaging when the insert part is in its transport position. This measure, among others, makes it even easier to grasp the handling part. It is then possible to use the handling part to insert the insert part without having to reposition your grip, i.e., grasp the handling part or the insert part at a different point.

[0034] The supply and loading of textile machines with inserts and the operation of the textile machines are also improved by a method for supplying a textile machine with at least one insert and for operating the textile machines, provided that the at least one insert is designed in the manner described above. Textile machines are operated to manufacture textiles or, in the case of sewing, among other things, to join textile surfaces. For the purposes of this publication, "participating in textile production" of a textile tool means that its working area has the same contact with elements of the textile, such as, in particular, the thread. As already mentioned several times, system components generally do not have this contact with the thread or the textile material; rather, they participate in textile production or further processing of textile materials by transmitting force or torque directly or indirectly to textile tools.Often, the system component serves to select the textile tools; in other cases, it provides the force or torque to operate the textile tools, enabling them to perform the movements required in textile manufacturing.

[0035] The insert, in its delivery state already mentioned several times above, i.e., in the state in which it is transported from its manufacturer to its user in textile machines, has an intact and therefore still unresolved or Unopened predetermined breaking point. This delivery condition is therefore present at the start of machine loading; thus, the predetermined breaking point is intact at the beginning of loading. "Handling" as used in this document means that the insert part is inserted into the textile machine, positioned, and / or secured there by the manual action of operators, production personnel, or a robot. Given the use of the term "handling part" in this document, one could also say that the modern German word "handling" and the term "handling" are used largely synonymously. In essence, the handling part serves to handle the insert part. The insert part is also brought into a position, which may already be the working position, with the aid of the handling part, and is then locked or secured there if necessary.The type of this specification is determined by the expert taking into account the installation situation and the function of the part.

[0036] As mentioned several times already, the handling part is shaped differently than the insert part and usually has different dimensions in one, two, or three spatial directions. The handling part is not suitable as an insert part for the same purpose in the same machine. It does not participate in the textile production process of the textile machine. As a rule, it is removed from the textile machine. Often, it is a disposable part. In terms of sustainability, it is advantageous if at least its raw materials can be reused. This is readily the case if the handling part, like most insert parts of textile machines, is a metal part.

[0037] Protecting the insert part with packaging during transport between its manufacturing location and its point of use (the textile machine) is advantageous. At a minimum, the insert part itself should be protected by the packaging; however, the packaging often encloses the entire assembly of insert and handling parts. Packaging containing larger quantities of replacement parts in their delivered state also offers advantages. Large containers, for example, contain 500 or 1000 such units (consisting of an insert part and a handling part).

[0038] The insert part is advantageously already connected to the handling part during production. This connection can be made right at the beginning of the parts manufacturing process. For example, both parts can be separated or detached together from a single sheet. The predetermined breaking point can be created beforehand, for example by scoring or grooving the sheet at the appropriate location. The predetermined breaking point can also be created when the unit consisting of the handling part and the insert part has already been separated. Quite surprisingly, it has been shown that handling the aforementioned unit with the handling part during production offers further advantages. This applies, depending on the situation, to some or even all of the production steps. For example, handling the unit with the handling part is advantageous when it is necessary to feed the insert part to or place it at new processing stations. The handling part can also be gripped by mechanical handling devices and transport the unit consisting of the handling part and the insert part during processing or between processing stations. However, the fact that the handling part is present at some or all processing stations does not mean that it participates in all of the processing steps—some of which are very expensive—to which the insert part is subjected.Therefore, the handling part is designed to be inexpensive to manufacture and, due to its size and properties, suitable for handling the insert. For example, the previously mentioned hanging parts (spilli) have points that are not easy to produce. The same applies to needles and, for example, to the hooks and prongs of knitting needles. Therefore, in all embodiments of the invention, it is advantageous if the insert does not have such features. It is also advantageous in all embodiments of the invention if the handling part is cheaper to manufacture and / or requires fewer active manufacturing steps than the insert. In this context, it is emphasized again that even with insert and handling units made of metal, the raw material costs represent only a very small proportion of the total system costs.Therefore, it is often quite possible to manufacture a handling part that is much larger than the corresponding insert part much more cheaply than the insert part.

[0039] It is advantageous, • when the insert is inserted along its longitudinal direction into a groove- or channel-shaped recess of the textile machine, • until the predetermined breaking point comes close to the entrance of the groove- or channel-shaped recess of the textile machine, • whereupon the predetermined breaking point is released by a relative movement of the handling part with respect to the insert part which is at least partially or largely located in the receptacle.

[0040] Such groove- or channel-shaped fittings in textile machines are particularly common on knitting machines. In knitting machines, knitting needles and often also plates slide in channels, with the working areas of these textile tools protruding from the needle channel towards the knitting area during knitting. Inserting knitting needles into these needle channels can be difficult.

[0041] Therefore, the use of textile tools or system components equipped with handling elements is advantageous in the knitting industry. Additional benefits arise when loading the aforementioned needle or die channels as follows: The textile tool is inserted into the channel with its tip, i.e., its working area, leading the way. The operator of the textile machine, performing the loading, preferably handles the unit consisting of the insert and the handling element using the latter. The machine operator then moves the insert along its longitudinal axis into the needle channel until the point where the predetermined breaking point is only a small distance from, or even at all close to, the needle channel entrance.The machine operator then moves the handling part, preferably in the lateral direction of the insert and the needle channel, resulting in a relative movement between the insert and the handling part, since the former is held in the lateral direction by the needle channel. This relative movement causes the predetermined breaking point to separate. The textile tool or insert is thus inserted into the needle or die channel. If necessary, further movement in the longitudinal direction of the needle channel is required to reach the final working position. This can usually also be achieved by moving the textile tool itself by actuating a foot. Such feet are known and are generally present on the relevant textile tools to transmit the force for the knitting movements.

[0042] The aforementioned method also works if the receptacle is not a needle or circuit board channel, in which fixing the insert in the longitudinal direction of the insert part is not desirable, but if the receptacle, for example, has a clamp-like function and fixes the insert part in such a way, particularly by frictional engagement, that it is held in all three spatial directions. In this case, too, the unit consisting of the insert part and the handling part can be considered within the functional range of the The workpiece is inserted into the clamp-like holder until it is in the position where it is to be secured within the holder. In this position, the handling part is not prevented by the holder or other machine elements from performing a relative movement with respect to the workpiece that releases the predetermined breaking point. The machine operator therefore moves the handling part accordingly in this situation, so that the relative movement occurs and the predetermined breaking point is released.

[0043] The aforementioned examples demonstrate that the predetermined breaking point can be separated as long as and to the extent that the elements of the textile machine, including the fixture, permit relative movement of the handling part. It is possible that the separation of the predetermined breaking point occurs when the insert has already reached its final working position. However, it is also possible that further movements of the insert relative to the fixture or relative to the textile machine are required to reach a working position or the final working position after the predetermined breaking point has been opened. Therefore, in this context, it is also advantageous if the insert, the handling part, and, in particular, the position of the predetermined breaking point are coordinated with the textile machine or with its at least one fixture that enables the method described above, such that at least sufficient relative movement of the handling part to separate the predetermined breaking point is possible.

[0044] For most textile tools used in lace closure devices (such as the aforementioned transfer tools or spilli, “transfer devices” or “transfer members” and “strip members”), it is likely that holders are preferably used which primarily secure the textile tools by friction, so that the latter method (securing the tool also in the longitudinal direction, then separating at the predetermined breaking point) is likely to be preferable with regard to these parts.

[0045] It was mentioned earlier that inserts for ribbed discs and knitting cylinders, in particular, can be equipped with handling parts whose longitudinal axis points in the vertical direction of the inserts, or where the predetermined breaking point can be positioned on the top of the insert. Especially with such units consisting of inserts and handling parts, it is advantageous if the assembly process proceeds as follows: i) Feeding the unit consisting of the insert and handling part to a groove-like channel of the respective needle bed (which can, of course, also contain circuit boards or system components), ii) Inserting the insert into the needle channel, either until the the predetermined breaking point is located in the area of ​​the upper boundary of the needle channel or until the insert part sits on the bottom of the needle channel, iii) causing the pivoting movements of the handling part to release the predetermined breaking point.

[0046] The supply and loading of textile machines with insert parts and the operation of the textile machines are also improved and facilitated by a system for the further processing of textile materials, which comprises a textile machine and at least one insert part for operating this textile machine, provided that the at least one insert part is designed in the manner described above. In connection with this system as well, the handling part is shaped differently from the insert part, and the handling part is not an insert part for the textile machine.

[0047] The insert, on the other hand, is designed to participate in textile manufacturing with the textile machine. After its insertion, it preferably takes part in textile production. For the purposes of this publication, "participate in textile production" means that the insert in question contributes to the further processing of the respective textile fabrics in the specific work step for which it is designed.

[0048] In its preferred embodiment, the system is characterized by the following: • that the textile machine has a holder in which the insert part can be fixed in a first working position, • that the handling part is manually accessible when the insert part is in the first working position, • that the fixture allows at least a relative movement of the handling part with respect to the insert part fixed in the fixture when the insert part is in the first working position, • and that this is at least a relative movement suitable for separating the predetermined breaking point.

[0049] Provided that the textile machine (and in particular the at least one mounting of the textile machine and adjacent parts), the insert part and the handling part are coordinated in such a way that the above requirements are met, it is possible to carry out the method mentioned above in relation to the method according to the present invention (fixing the tool also in the longitudinal direction, then separating the predetermined breaking point) with the system.

[0050] Further details and embodiments of the present invention will become clear from the figures listed below: Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a first textile tool, which is a hanging part for a sock fastening device. Fig. 2 Figure 2 shows a textile tool that is slightly modified compared to the textile tool shown in Figure 1 and that is (still) connected to a handling part via an intact predetermined breaking point. Fig. 3 Figure 3 shows another textile tool that interacts with a hanging part in a sock closure device. Fig. 4 Figure 4 shows another textile tool, which is an alternative shoulder piece. Fig. 5 Figure 5 shows the textile tool from Figure 3, which is (still) connected to a handling part via an intact predetermined breaking point. Fig. 6 Figure 6 shows the textile tool from Figure 4, which is connected to a handling part via an intact predetermined breaking point. Fig. 7 Figure 7 shows a tool holder with a sock closing device with hanging parts. Fig. 8 Figure 8 shows the unit consisting of textile tool and handling part from Figure 2, wherein the textile tool is surrounded by a packaging. Fig. 9 Figure 9 shows the unit from Figure 8, which in Figure 8 is partially surrounded by packaging. Fig. 10 Figure 10 shows the unit from Figure 8, which in Figure 8 is mostly surrounded by packaging. Fig. 11 Figure 11 shows another textile tool - a knitting needle - which is also connected to a handling part. Fig. 12 Figure 12 shows the unit consisting of the handling part and knitting needle from Figure 11, which is being inserted into a needle channel. Fig. 13 Figure 13 shows a selection part, another system part and a needle of a circular knitting machine. Fig. 14 Figure 14 shows the selection part from Figure 13 in its delivery state. Fig. 15 Figure 15 shows the further system part 31 from Figure 13 in detail. Fig. 16 Figure 16 shows the tool holder with sock-closing device from Figure 7 in the Detail. Fig. 17 Figure 17 relates to a needle 1 which is similar to the needles from Figures 11 and 12, but in which the handling part is attached in a different location. Fig. 18 Figure 18 also relates to a needle 1, which is similar to the needles from Figures 11 and 12, but in which the handling part is attached in a different location and which is already inserted into a needle channel. Fig. 19 Figure 19 relates to a textile tool similar to the textile tool 1 from Figure 4, but whose handling part 7 is also connected to the textile tool 1 at a different location.

[0051] Figure 1 shows a first textile tool 1, which is a hanging part of a sock fastening device. This part, also called a "spillo," has a point 2 and a shaft 3, which extends mainly in the longitudinal direction z, as well as a fastening area 4, which runs mostly transversely to the shaft and extends mainly in the vertical direction x, and which is designed to be received in a tool holder of a sock fastening device. The fastening area has a notch 5. Many different embodiments of such hanging parts 1 are known. Most of these hanging parts have in common their delicate shape. As a rule, these parts, and also the other insert parts of sock fastening devices, are relatively difficult to insert into their holders.It should also be mentioned that the textile tool 1, which is designed as a shoulder piece, extends in the z-direction between its front end 24 and its rear end 25 and has a longitudinal extent 26 between these points.

[0052] Figure 2 shows a slightly differently designed hanging part 1 of a sock fastening device, which is connected to the handling part 7 via the intact predetermined breaking point 9. The handling part 7 also extends mainly in the longitudinal direction z of the textile tool 1. The handling part 7 has a transverse strut 8 at the rear end of its longitudinal extension, which extends mainly in the vertical direction x of the hanging part 1. In Figure 2, the loop 6 is also shown for symbolic reasons. The loop is only intended to clarify that the tip 2 and part of the shaft 3 of the hanging part 1 come into contact with loops 6 when a textile machine is operated into which the hanging part 1, which is of course an insert part within the meaning of this publication, is inserted. The hanging part 1 is thus a "textile tool" within the meaning of the This document also falls under the general term "insert part". The areas of the hanging part 1, which is a textile tool within the meaning of this document, that come into contact with the thread or stitch 6 are also called working section 22. The entire unit 20, consisting of insert part 1 and handling part 7, has a longitudinal extent 27 that is greater than the longitudinal extent 26 of the insert part 1 by an extension factor.

[0053] Figure 3 shows another textile tool 1 that interacts with a hanging part 1, as shown in Figure 4, in a sock fastening device. Figure 4 shows this hanging part 1 with the shaft 3 and the tip 2. Figure 5 again shows a textile tool 1 of the type already shown in Figure 3. However, the textile tool 1 shown in Figure 5 is connected to the handling part 7 via an intact predetermined breaking point 9. The handling part 7 shown in Figure 5 consists mainly of its crossbar 8. The predetermined breaking point 9 was created by a circular cutout 19 in the shaft area surrounding it. This method of creating a predetermined breaking point is also efficient and therefore advantageous. Figure 6 again shows a textile tool 1 of the type of hanging part, as already shown in Figure 4. This textile tool 1 is also connected to a handling part 7.The relevant predetermined breaking point 9 was also produced using a circular cutout 19. The textile tool 1 shown in Figure 19 is similar to the textile tools 1 shown in Figures 4 and 6. The textile tool in Figure 19 is also connected to a handling element 7 via a predetermined breaking point 9, which was produced using a circular cutout 19. However, the predetermined breaking point is located at the upper edge of the textile tool 1. The handling element 7 has a longitudinal extension that runs at least mostly in the vertical direction x of the textile tool. It thus runs perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the textile tool.

[0054] Figure 7 shows a tool holder 10 of a sock fastening device. The tool holder 10 is partially fitted with hanging parts 1, which are similar to the hanging parts 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2. One of these hanging parts 1 is also connected to a handling part 7 via a predetermined breaking point 9 (not shown in Figure 7). Figure 7 shows that, in particular, the tool holder 10 does not obstruct the sock fastening device when the handling part 7 is positioned relative to its insert part 1, which is already inserted into and secured in the tool holder 10. The width direction y and length direction z of the same 1 is pivoted so that the predetermined breaking point 9 opens. The arrow 37 symbolizes the pivoting movement to which the handling part 7 is subjected in order to release the predetermined breaking point 9. Figure 16 shows the tool holder with sock-closing device from Figure 7 in detail.

[0055] Figure 8 again shows the unit 20, consisting of a hanging part 1 and a handling part 7, which was already shown in Figure 2. However, the hanging part 1 is enclosed by the packaging 11. The packaging 11 has an opening 12 that opens the packaging 11 towards the handling part 7. Figure 9 again shows the unit 20, this time with a packaging 11 that completely encloses the hanging part 1 and partially encloses the handling part 7. The opening 12 of the packaging 11 again opens the packaging in the direction of the longitudinal extent z of the hanging part 1, where the handling part 7 connects to the hanging part 1.

[0056] Figure 10 shows an identical unit consisting of a hanging part 1 and a handling part 7 with a packaging 11, which is very similar to the packaging already shown in Figure 9. The retaining lip 13 of the packaging 11 is also shown. This lip engages with the outer strut 8 of the hanging part 1 and prevents it from unintentionally falling out of the packaging 11 through the opening 12. The packagings described in the aforementioned figures are more symbolic in nature, as packaging is typically used to hold a large number of textile tools. However, in principle, such packagings can accommodate units 20 consisting of an insert part 1 and a handling part 7 in an equivalent manner to the individual packagings 11 shown in Figures 8, 9, and 10.

[0057] The insert 1 shown in Figure 11 is a knitting needle. It has a shaft 3, a point 2, a hook 14, a tongue 15, a jaw 23, a stitch support 29, and a foot 21. The areas of the knitting needle 1 between its point 2 or hook 14 and the stitch support 29 can come into contact with the yarn or the stitch 6 during knitting and are therefore called working section 22. In this example, the distance 28 between the back end 25 of the knitting needle 1 and the stitch support 29 coincides with the distance 28 between working section 22 and the back end 25 of the knitting needle 1. The knitting needle 1 is connected to the handling part 7 via a predetermined breaking point 9. The latter has an outer strut 8 at its end in the longitudinal direction z of the insert 1. It should also be mentioned that the textile component shaped like a knitting needle Tool 1 extends in the z-direction between its front end 24 and its rear end 25 and has a longitudinal extent 26 between these points. The entire unit 20, consisting of insert part 1 and handling part 7, has a longitudinal extent 27 that is greater than the longitudinal extent 26 of the insert part 1 by an extension factor.

[0058] Figure 12 again shows the same unit 20 consisting of a knitting needle 1 and an insert 7 as in Figure 11. However, Figure 12 depicts a situation that arises when this unit 20, or rather the associated knitting needle 1, is inserted into a needle bed 16.

[0059] For illustrative purposes, Figure 12 shows the needle bed 16 with only one groove-like channel 17 into which the knitting needle must be inserted to participate in the knitting process. Needle beds of flat knitting machines and knitting cylinders of circular knitting machines—that is, the typical receptacles or holding devices for these textile tools and system components in these textile machines—have a multitude of such groove-like channels 17 in which knitting needles 1 are moved along their longitudinal direction z or the longitudinal direction of the groove-like channel. Figure 12 shows a situation in which the knitting needle 1 has already been inserted largely into the groove-like channel 17 by a movement in its negative longitudinal direction z, i.e., almost to the breaking point 9. In this situation, the handling element 7, which is again equipped with a crossbar 8, projects beyond the opening 18 of the needle bed 16.It is advantageous if neither the needle bed nor any other parts of the machine prevent the operator from moving the handling part 7, for example, in the width direction y of the knitting needle 1. Such a movement causes the handling part 7 to rotate about the axis of the predetermined breaking point 9, since the knitting needle 1 is held in the channel 17 against this movement. This movement releases the predetermined breaking point 9.

[0060] Figure 12 shows an example of the predetermined breaking point 9 being opened while an insert part (textile tool or system component) is located in a channel 17, in which it is preferably not fixed in the longitudinal direction z. In Figure 7, which shows the partially loaded tool holder of a sock fastening device, the respective textile tools 1 are already fixed in their holder when the predetermined breaking point 9 is opened.

[0061] Figure 17 relates to a needle 1 which is similar to the needles 1 from Figures 11 and 12, but in which the handling part 7 is provided in a different location, namely at the upper edge of the needle 1. Needles are textile tools within the meaning of this publication, and textile tools themselves fall under the general term "insert parts." Figure 17 shows a needle, thus a textile tool and therefore also an insert part 1, which has its longitudinal extent in the z-direction, while the longitudinal extent of the handling part runs in the positive x-direction—that is, in the vertical direction of the textile tool. This arrangement of the longitudinal axis of these two parts of the unit 20, consisting of insert part 1 (here, textile tool) and its handling part 7, has particular advantages for needles, dies, or system components used in ribbed knitting machines and knitting cylinders (e.g.,(of circular knitting machines): The machine operator loading these components can insert the relevant insert 1 "from above" into a needle channel 17, creating a situation as shown in Figure 18: Figure 18 shows a knitting needle 1 inserted into a groove-like channel 17 of a needle bed 16 (which can be a ribbed disc or a knitting cylinder). In this situation, the upward-pointing handling part 7 can be separated from the needle 1 by a pivoting movement in the x and y directions ("opening or separating the predetermined breaking point 9"). However, since the predetermined breaking point 9 is located below the upper edge of the needle channel 17, the aforementioned pivoting movement to release the predetermined breaking point 9, which is symbolized by the double arrow 31 in Figure 7, may be obstructed in the situation shown in Figure 18.Therefore, it is advantageous if the predetermined breaking point 9 is located above, or at least approximately at the same level as, the upper edge of the needle channel 17 during the pivoting movement. The machine operator can also bring about such a situation in an embodiment as shown in Figure 18 by interrupting the insertion movement and separating the predetermined breaking point shortly before or when the predetermined breaking point 9 reaches the height of the groove-like channel 17.

[0062] As mentioned earlier, it is also advantageous for all embodiments of the invention with an upward-facing handling part 7 if the position of the predetermined breaking point 9 in the unit consisting of handling part 7 and insertion part 1 and the upper edge of the groove-like channel 17 are aligned such that the predetermined breaking point 9, in its insertion position in the groove-like channel 17, has the same height as the upper edge of the groove-like channel 17 or projects above it. In the latter case, it is important to prevent the part of the predetermined breaking point 9 remaining on the insertion part 1 from colliding with parts of the textile machine, specifically its locking components, during operation. This can be achieved by appropriately coordinating the textile machine parts and the dimensions of the unit 20 consisting of insertion part 1 and handling part 7. This can also be accomplished by positioning the predetermined breaking point 9 at a height x The distance lies below the upper end of the foot or feet 21 of the insert part 1. Alternatively or additionally, the predetermined breaking point 9 can be provided on a foot 21.

[0063] Figure 13 shows a relatively clear example of the function of a system part 1, which is disclosed in US 4,466,762 B and which was mentioned at the outset. The system part 1 (here referred to as the general term) of Figure 13 is a selection part (here referred to as the specific term). In the aforementioned publication, this selection part is called a "jack" and is designated with the reference numeral "SCH" in Figure 1 therein. In Figure 13 of the present publication, this selection part acts as the relevant insert part and bears the reference numeral 1. This selection part 1 extends, similarly to the textile tools depicted above, primarily in its longitudinal direction z between its front end 24 and its rear end 25. The longitudinal extent of this system part is also shown in Figure 13 with the reference numeral 26. It has feet 21 (butts) to which force can be transmitted during knitting operations, e.g., from lock parts.The feet 21 of system part 1 thus simultaneously function as working sections 34 for absorbing the force of a system part. The illustrated selection part 1 transmits the absorbed force—as is typical for selection parts of knitting machines—largely along the needle channel and thus along its longitudinal direction z.

[0064] Figure 13 shows, in addition to the selection part 1, the further system part 31 and the further needle 30 in the sequence they have within the needle channel during knitting operation. Therefore, the selection part 1 first transmits the force absorbed by its feet 21 or its force-receiving section 34 via the force transmission section 33, which is synonymous with its front end 24, to the further system part 31, which in turn transmits it to the needle 30. In this case, there is thus an indirect force transmission from the selection part 1 to the needle 30, which is a textile tool as defined in this publication. System parts according to this publication thus transmit force or torque directly or indirectly to textile tools.An indirect force transmission from a first system component to a textile tool can occur through a further system component 31 or through a plurality of further system components 31, without the first system component 1 losing its property of being a "system component" within the meaning of this publication. This is analogous to the use of the terms system component, ... The textile tool and insert could also refer to the additional system parts 31 and the additional needle 30 as an additional insert 36 (general term). The additional needle 30 also falls under the general term additional textile tool 30.

[0065] Figure 14 shows the selection part 1 in its delivery state, in which it is connected to the handling part 7 via an intact, not yet released predetermined breaking point 9, which in turn consists of the cross strut 8 and the parallel part 32 of the handling part 7.

[0066] Figure 15 shows the additional system part 31 from Figure 13. Figure 15 illustrates that system part 31 also has a working section 34 for force or torque absorption at its rear end 25. System part 31 also participates in the selection of the knitting needles 30 of the circular knitting machine according to US 4,466,762 B by transmitting the absorbed force along the needle channel to the needle 30 from Figure 13 via its front end 24, which is also the working section for force transmission. It should be added that the angled part 35 of the additional system part 31 can also belong to the working section for force transmission 33. For this reason, the working section for force transmission 33 is represented in Figure 15 by a curved bracket that spans sections 24 and 35.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Insert part (1) of a textile machine, • which extends in its longitudinal direction (z) between a front (24) and a rear (25) end, • which is designed as a textile tool (1) and has a working section (22) which, in the longitudinal direction (z) of the textile tool (1), is spaced from the rear end (25) of the same and can be used for thread contact and / or for stitch formation • or which is designed as a system part (1), serves to select or drive textile tools (1) and has working sections (33) which can transmit force and / or torque to further insert parts (36), • wherein the insert part (1) in its delivery state is connected to at least one handling part (7) via a predetermined breaking connection (9) which can be opened manually and without tools, characterized • that the handling part (7) is shaped differently than the insert part (1) • and that the handling part (7) is not an insert part (1) for the textile machine.

2. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the insert part (1) and the handling part (7) are made of the same material and / or have undergone the same manufacturing processes during their manufacture.

3. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the handling part (7) has a larger area in the plane spanned by the longitudinal direction (z) and a second spatial direction (x) of the insert part (1) than the insert part (1).

4. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the material of the handling part (7) and the insert part (1) has the same thickness in a third spatial direction (y).

5. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that • the unit (20) comprising the handling part (7) and the insert part (1) has a longitudinal extension (27) in the longitudinal direction (z) of the insert part (1) when the predetermined breaking connection (9) is closed, • which is longer by an extension factor than the longitudinal extension (26) of the insert part (1) in its longitudinal direction (z) • and wherein this extension factor is in particular greater than 1.5, but preferably 2 and particularly preferably greater than 3.

6. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the predetermined breaking point (9) in the longitudinal direction (z) of the insert part (1) is at a end (24, 25) thereof or that the predetermined breaking point (9) is located at the upper edge of the insert part (1) and that the insert part extends in the positive height direction (x) away from the predetermined breaking point.

7. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insert part belongs to a unit consisting of handling part and insert part, which has exactly one insert part.

8. Insert part according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the unit consisting of handling part and insert part has several insert parts.

9. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insert part belongs to a unit consisting of handling part and insert part, which has been manufactured in one piece.

10. Insert part (1) of a textile machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insert part, after its separation from the handling part, no longer requires any further manufacturing steps in order to be used in the textile machine.

11. Packaging (11) for at least one insert part (1) of a textile machine, which contains the at least one insert part (1) and at least partially encloses the at least one insert part (1), wherein the at least one insert part (1) • extends in its longitudinal direction (z) between a front (24) and a rear (25) end, • either is designed as a textile tool (1), has a working section (22) which is spaced apart from the rear end (25) of the textile tool (1) in the longitudinal direction (z) of the latter and can be used for thread contact and / or for stitch formation • or is designed as a system part (1), serves to select or drive textile tools (1, 30) and has working sections (33) that can transmit force or torque to further insert parts (36), • wherein the insert part in its delivery state is connected to at least one handling part (7) via a predetermined breaking connection (9) which can be opened manually and without tools, characterized in that • that the handling part (7) is shaped differently than the insert part (1) • and that the handling part (7) is not an insert part (1) of a textile machine.

12. Packaging (11) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the insert part (1) is at least partially enclosed by the packaging (11) in its transport position, that the packaging (11) has at least one removal opening (12) for the at least one insert part (1), and that the removal opening (12) opens the packaging in the direction (z) in which the handling part (7) is connected to the insert part (1) via the predetermined breaking point (9).

13. Packaging according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a part of the handling part (7) projects beyond the at least one removal opening (12) of the packaging (11) when the insert part (1) is in its transport position in the packaging (11).

14. Method for supplying a textile machine with at least one insert part (1) and for operating the textile machine, wherein the at least one insert part (1) • is designed to participate in textile production during operation of the textile machine, • extends in its longitudinal direction (z) between a front (24) and a rear (25) end, • either is designed as a textile tool (1) and has a working section (22) which, in the longitudinal direction (z) of the textile tool, is spaced (28) from the rear end (25) of the same and can be used for thread contact and / or stitch formation, • or is designed as a system part (1), serves to select or drive textile tools (1) and has working sections (33) that can transmit force and / or torque to further insert parts (36), • wherein the at least one insert part (1) is connected to at least one handling part (7) via a predetermined breaking connection (9) which can be opened manually and without tools at the start of the assembly, • wherein the insert part (1) is inserted into the textile machine using the handling part (7) is handled • and wherein the predetermined breaking connection (9) is separated after the at least one insert part (1) has been inserted into a working position in the textile machine, characterized in that • that the handling part (7) is shaped differently than the insert part (1), • that the handling part (7) does not participate in the textile production after the insertion part (1) has been inserted into the textile machine • and that the insert part (1) takes part in the same.

15. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the at least one insert part (1), which is connected to the handling part (7) via the predetermined breaking point (9), is at least partially accommodated in a packaging (11) at least during part of its transport path from its production site to the textile machine.

16. Method according to one of the two preceding claims, characterized in that • that the at least one insert part (1) is already connected to the handling part (7) during part or all of its production steps • and that the at least one insert part (1) is already handled during part or all of its production steps with the aid of the handling part (7).

17. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that • that the insert part (1) is inserted along its longitudinal direction (z) into a groove- or channel-shaped receptacle (17) of the textile machine, • until the predetermined breaking point (9) comes close to the entrance (18) of the groove- or channel-shaped holder (17) of the textile machine, • whereupon the predetermined breaking point (9) is released by a relative movement of the Handling part (7) is released relative to the insert part (1) located at least partially in the groove- or channel-shaped receptacle (17).

18. System for further processing textile materials, comprising a textile machine and at least one insert part (1) for operating this textile machine, wherein the at least one insert part (1) • is designed to participate in textile production during operation of the textile machine, • extends in its longitudinal direction (z) between a front (24) and a rear (25) end, • either is designed as a textile tool (1) and has a working section which, in the longitudinal direction (z) of the textile tool (1), has a distance (28) to the rear end (25) of the same and can be used for thread contact and / or for stitch formation, • or is designed as a system part (1), serves to select or drive textile tools (1) and has working sections (33) that can transmit force and / or torque to further insert parts (36), • wherein the at least one insert part (1) is connected to at least one handling part (7) via a predetermined breaking connection (9) which can be opened manually and without tools at the start of the assembly, • wherein the insert part can be handled when loading the textile machine using the handling part (7) • and wherein the predetermined breaking connection (9) is separable, characterized in that • that the handling part (7) is shaped differently than the insert part (1), • and that the handling part (7) is not an insert part (1) for the textile machine.

19. System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that • that the textile machine has a holder (17) in which the insert part (1) can be fixed in a first working position, • that the handling part (7) is manually accessible when the insert part (1) is in the first job position, • that the receptacle (17) allows at least one relative movement of the handling part (7) with respect to the insert part (1) fixed in the receptacle (17) when the insert part (1) is in the first working position, • and that the predetermined breaking connection (9) can be separated by this at least one relative movement.

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