Knitted fabric knitting method, knitting program, and storage medium

Abstract

Provided is a knitted fabric knitting method that enables the stitches of any stitch row to be in a dense state. It is a knitted fabric knitting method for knitting a knitted fabric, using a flat knitting machine provided with a plurality of needle beds facing each other, a yarn feeder configured to supply a knitting yarn between the plurality of needle beds, and a movable gripper configured to grip the knitting yarn, the movable gripper being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds, characterized by comprising following steps A to C: a step A of knitting a first stitch row, which is part of the knitted fabric, using the yarn feeder; a step B of gripping, using the movable gripper, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row outward of a knitting range of the first stitch row, the step B being performed before or after the step A; and a step C of applying tension to the knitting yarn extending between the movable gripper and the first stitch row.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a knitted fabric knitting method, a knitting program for causing a flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method, and a storage medium storing the knitting program.Background Art

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a knitted fabric knitting method of knitting a set up portion, and a knitted fabric portion that follows the set up portion in the wale direction, using a flat knitting machine provided with a front needle bed and a back needle bed, which face each other. In this knitted fabric knitting method, the set up portion includes a stitch row in a zig-zag shape in which stitches are formed alternately on the front needle bed and the back needle bed.Citation ListPatent Literature

[0003] Patent Literature 1: JP 2019-112735ASummary of InventionTechnical Problem

[0004] The quality of the knitted fabric is improved when the stitches of the stitch row constituting the set up portion are in a dense state, that is, the stitches of the stitch row constituting the set up portion are small and the spacing between adjacent stitches thereof is narrow. Furthermore, even in the region of the knitted fabric other than the set up portion, the quality of the knitted fabric may be improved if the stitches of the stitch rows constituting that region are in a dense state. Accordingly, there is a need to form stitches that are even denser than the smallest stitches defined by the hardware configuration of a flat knitting machine used to knit the knitted fabric.

[0005] In light of the above-described circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a knitted fabric knitting method that enables the stitches of any stitch row to be in a denser state than those during knitting. Another object of the present invention is to provide a knitting program for causing a flat knitting machine to execute the above-described knitted fabric knitting method, and a storage medium storing this knitting program.Solution to Problem

[0006] <1> An aspect of the present invention relates to a knitted fabric knitting method for knitting a knitted fabric, using a flat knitting machine provided with a plurality of needle beds facing each other, a yarn feeder configured to supply a knitting yarn between the plurality of needle beds, and a movable gripper configured to grip the knitting yarn, the movable gripper being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds, characterized by including following steps A to C: a step A of knitting a first stitch row, which is part of the knitted fabric, using the yarn feeder; a step B of gripping, using the movable gripper, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row outward of a knitting range of the first stitch row, the step B being performed before or after the step A; and a step C of applying tension to the knitting yarn extending between the movable gripper and the first stitch row, the step C being performed after the steps A and B. Examples of the method of applying tension to the knitting yarn extending between the movable gripper and the first stitch row include a method of moving the movable gripper, a method of knitting the knitted fabric while the movable gripper holds the knitting yarn, or a method of racking the needle bed while the movable gripper holds the knitting yarn. In the second method described above, by performing knitting, the first stitch row is fed below the needle bed gap. When the first stitch row descends below the needle bed gap while the movable gripper holds the knitting yarn, tension is applied to the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row to the movable gripper due to the weight of the knitted fabric, pulling of a knitted fabric lowering device, and the like. In other words, this achieves the same effect as moving the movable gripper to pull the knitting yarn. <2> In the step C included in the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <1>, tension may be applied to the knitting yarn by moving the movable gripper to pull the knitting yarn. <3> In the step C included in the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <1> or <2>, the knitting yarn may be wrapped around a specific stitch that is one of a plurality of stitches held on one of the needle beds during the execution of the step C, by moving the movable gripper so that the movable gripper crosses the specific stitch and moving the specific stitch to the opposing needle bed after the movable gripper has crossed the specific stitch. Here, the opposing needle bed in the step C refers to a needle bed that faces the needle bed on which the specific stitch was held before the yarn feeder crosses the specific stitch. <4> An aspect of the present invention relates to a knitting program readable by a computer configured to control a flat knitting machine provided with a plurality of needle beds facing each other, a yarn feeder configured to supply a knitting yarn between the plurality of needle beds, and a movable gripper configured to grip the knitting yarn, the movable gripper being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds. The knitting program of the present invention causes the flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method according to any one of the above-described items <1> to <3>. <5> An aspect of the present invention relates to a storage medium storing the knitting program according to the above-described item <4>. Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0007] In the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention, after knitting the first stitch row, tension is applied to the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row to the movable gripper. The first stitch row may be composed of a single stitch or multiple stitches. By applying tension to the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row after knitting the first stitch row, at least one stitch constituting the first stitch row can be made denser than during knitting, that is, denser than when it is formed by knocking over the old stitch. With this knitted fabric knitting method, by increasing the tension applied to the knitting yarn, it is also possible to form stitches that are even denser than the smallest stitches defined by the hardware configuration of the flat knitting machine, which will be described later.

[0008] In the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <2>, by moving the movable gripper, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row to the movable gripper is pulled. Accordingly, by varying the moving speed and moving distance of the movable gripper, it is easier to adjust the tension to be applied to the knitting yarn.

[0009] In the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <3>, the knitting yarn gripped by the movable gripper is wrapped around the specific stitch. During the process of wrapping the knitting yarn around the specific stitch, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row is pulled, allowing the stitches of the first stitch row to be made denser than those during knitting. Furthermore, since the knitting yarn is fixed by wrapping around the specific stitch, the dense state of the first stitch row is easily maintained. Furthermore, when the knitting yarn gripped by the movable gripper is an edge yarn with a cut end, the edge yarn is fixed by wrapping around the specific stitch, making it less likely for the edge yarn entangled in the knitted fabric to come loose from the knitted fabric.

[0010] With the knitting program of the present invention, it is possible to cause a flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention. The computer that executes the knitting program may be included in the flat knitting machine, or may be connected to the flat knitting machine in a wired or wireless manner.

[0011] With the storage medium storing the knitting program of the present invention, it is possible to cause a flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention. During the execution of the knitting program, the storage medium may be included in the flat knitting machine, or may be connected to the flat knitting machine in a wired or wireless manner. The storage medium may also be a portable storage medium such as a USB memory.Brief Description of Drawings

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a knitted fabric according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating a flat knitting machine for knitting the knitted fabric according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 5 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 6 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 4. FIG. 7 is a loop diagram illustrating part of a knitted fabric according to Embodiment 4. Description of Embodiments

[0013] The following will describe a knitted fabric knitting method, a knitting program, and a storage medium according to embodiments with reference to the drawings.<Embodiment 1><<Knitted Fabric>>

[0014] A knitted fabric 5 of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a tubular finger portion of a glove. A set up portion 50 is formed at a fingertip portion of the tubular finger portion. After branching the portion following the set up portion 50 forward and backward, the tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape. In other words, the tubular finger portion is knitted starting from the fingertip. The tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape using a flat knitting machine. The tubular knitted fabric 5 includes a front knitted fabric portion 5F and a back knitted fabric portion 5B. Here, the knitted fabric 5 obtained by the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention is not limited to tubular finger portions but may also be other tubular knitted fabrics. Other tubular knitted fabrics may be knitwear such as, for example, pants or skirts, or industrial materials such as seat covers. The knitted fabric 5 is not limited to a tubular knitted fabric but may also be a single-layer knitted fabric.

[0015] An edge yarn 9 extends from the starting end of the set up portion 50. In other words, the edge yarn 9 in this example is an edge yarn 9 of a yarn-in portion. A cut end 90 is formed at an end portion of the edge yarn 9. The edge yarn 9 is incorporated into the knitted fabric 5 so as to be inconspicuous. The treatment of the edge yarn 9 is performed, for example, by hand.

[0016] In this example, the process to bring the stitches of the stitch row constituting the set up portion 50 into a dense state after knitting the stitch row is performed by the flat knitting machine. Hereinafter, the configuration of the flat knitting machine will be first described, followed by the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention.<<Flat Knitting Machine>>

[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating an example of a flat knitting machine 6 for knitting the above-described knitted fabric 5. The flat knitting machine 6 is a two-bed flat knitting machine provided with a pair of needle beds 6B arranged facing each other in the paper depth direction. The pair of needle beds 6B are also referred to as a front needle bed (hereinafter, FB) and a back needle bed (hereinafter, BB), respectively. The flat knitting machine 6 includes a racking mechanism 65 that shifts the relative positions of the FB and BB in the direction along the length of the FB and BB. The racking mechanism 65 may employ a known configuration. The flat knitting machine 6 for knitting the knitted fabric 5 may also be a four-bed flat knitting machine provided with a lower front needle bed, a lower back needle bed, an upper front needle bed, and an upper back needle bed.

[0018] Each of the needle beds 6B has a plurality of needles arranged in parallel. These needles are driven by a cam system mounted on a carriage 6C, which reciprocates on the needle beds 6B. The cam system includes a transfer cam, which is a transfer mechanism 66 that moves stitches between the FB and the BB. The needles may be latch needles equipped with a latch that opens and closes the hook, or compound needles equipped with a slider that opens and closes the hook. The flat knitting machine 6 further includes a plurality of yarn feeders 6F that supply a knitting yarn 6Y to the needle bed gap formed between the pair of needle beds 6B. Each yarn feeder 6F is mounted on one of a plurality of rails 6R and travels along the rail 6R. The plurality of rails 6R extend parallel to the needle beds 6B above the needle beds 6B. The knitting yarn 6Y is supplied to the yarn feeder 6F from a tension equipment 6T through a side tension device (not shown).

[0019] Here, according to the hardware configuration of the flat knitting machine 6, the smallest stitches can be formed when knitting, for example, the following two patterns. First, when knitting the set up portion 50 by forming pick up stitches in a zig-zag shape between the FB and the BB, the stitches of the set up portion 50 are the smallest stitches. Second, when determining the stitch size using the cam system included in the carriage 6C and performing knitting with a stitch value of zero, the smallest stitches are also formed.

[0020] The flat knitting machine 6 of this example is provided with a movable gripper 6G for gripping knitting yarn. The movable gripper 6G is configured to be movable in the direction along the length of the needle beds 6B. Therefore, the movable gripper 6G can move in the direction along the needle beds 6B while gripping the knitting yarn. Known movable grippers, such as those described in WO 2009 / 084193 and the like, may be used for the movable gripper 6G. A cutter (not shown) for cutting the knitting yarn 6Y may be formed in one piece with the movable gripper 6G.

[0021] The flat knitting machine 6 includes a computer 60 for controlling the flat knitting machine 6. Control of the flat knitting machine 6 includes controlling the travel of the carriage 6C, the operation of the cam system mounted on the carriage 6C, the travel of the yarn feeder 6F, and the like.

[0022] The computer 60 includes a processor 61 and a storage medium 62. The processor 61 is any one of a variety of processors suitable for controlling the computer 60. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or the like.

[0023] The storage medium 62 stores a knitting program for causing the flat knitting machine 6 to knit the knitted fabric 5. The knitting program in this example includes instructions for instructing the flat knitting machine 6 to execute the knitted fabric knitting method, which will be described later. The above-described processor 61 executes the instructions included in the knitting program to cause the flat knitting machine 6 to perform knitting operations.

[0024] Unlike this example, the computer that controls the flat knitting machine 6 based on the knitting program of this example may be another computer connected to the flat knitting machine 6 via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet.<<Knitted Fabric Knitting Method>>

[0025] A specific knitting method for knitting the knitted fabric 5 using the above-described flat knitting machine 6 is described with reference to a knitting step diagram of FIG. 3. The 'S + number' enclosed in a square in the drawing indicates the knitting step number. The black dots represent the needles on the needle bed 6B, and the inverted triangle mark represents the yarn feeder 6F.

[0026] In step S1, the knitting yarn 6Y extending from the side tension device of the flat knitting machine 6 (FIG. 2) to the yarn feeder 6F is gripped by the movable gripper 6G (corresponding to step B). This knitting yarn 6Y is the edge yarn 9 of the yarn-in portion. The edge yarn 9 has the cut end 90.

[0027] In step S2, the yarn feeder 6F is moved, and a first stitch row 1 that constitutes the set up portion 50 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S2, the yarn feeder 6F is further moved, and a tubular second stitch row 2, which follows the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, and a tubular third stitch row 3, which follows the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction, are knitted. The second stitch row 2 and the third stitch row 3 constitute the portion of the tubular knitted fabric 5 shown in FIG. 1 that follows the set up portion 50 in the wale direction. FIG. 3 shows the first stitch row 1, the second stitch row 2, and the third stitch row 3.

[0028] In step S3, by moving the movable gripper 6G to pull the edge yarn 9, at least some of the plurality of stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 are made denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C). The state where the stitches 10 of the first stitch row 1 are denser than those during knitting refers to a state where the stitches 10 of the first stitch row 1 are smaller and the spacing between adjacent stitches 10 is smaller, than in step S2. Among the plurality of stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1, stitches 10 closer to the edge yarn 9 tend to become smaller, and stitches 10 farther from the edge yarn 9 tend not to become smaller.

[0029] In this example, the direction in which the movable gripper 6G is moved is a direction away from the first stitch row 1, as indicated by the white-filled arrow. The movable gripper 6G may be moved in the direction opposite to the white-filled arrow to pull the edge yarn 9, but this makes it slightly less likely for the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 to become dense. Unlike this example, the movement of the movable gripper 6G may be performed after the formation of the second stitch row 2 and before the formation of the third stitch row 3, or after the formation of a not-shown stitch row following the third stitch row 3.

[0030] According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, after the first stitch row 1 is released from the needle beds 6B, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can be made denser than those during knitting. According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, it is possible to make stitches denser than the smallest stitches that are knitted based on the hardware configuration of the flat knitting machine 6. The first stitch row 1 in this example forms the set up portion 50 of the tubular finger portion, which is the knitted fabric 5, shown in FIG. 1, and thus the stitches constituting the set up portion 50 are made denser. As a result, the stitches branching forward and backward from the set up portion 50 are made denser, reducing the likelihood that a hole is formed at the tip of the tubular finger portion and improving the quality of the tubular finger portion.<Embodiment 2>

[0031] Embodiment 2 describes a knitting example where the stitches of the first stitch row 1 held on the needles of the needle beds 6B are made dense on the needle beds 6B, with reference to FIG. 4. The way of viewing of FIG. 4 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0032] In step S10 of FIG. 4, the knitting yarn 6Y that is the edge yarn 9 is gripped by the movable gripper 6G during yarn-in (corresponding to step B). In step S11 following step S10, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S12 following step S11, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0033] According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can be made denser than those during knitting the first stitch row 1. Therefore, it is possible to knit a detailed knitted fabric 5.<Embodiment 3>

[0034] Embodiment 3 describes a knitting example where stitches of the first stitch row 1 connected to a yarn discharge portion are made denser, that is, a knitting example where the first stitch row 1 is knitted, and then the knitting yarn 6Y is gripped by the movable gripper, with reference to FIG. 5. The way of viewing of FIG. 5 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0035] In step S20 in FIG. 5, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S21 following step S20, the knitting yarn 6Y extending from the last knitted stitch 10 of the first stitch row 1 to the yarn feeder 6F is gripped by the movable gripper 6G (corresponding to step B). In step S22 following step S21, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0036] According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can also be made denser than those during knitting the first stitch row 1. Therefore, it is possible to knit a detailed knitted fabric 5.<Embodiment 4>

[0037] Embodiment 4 describes a knitting example different from the knitting examples of Embodiments 1 to 3 in way of moving the movable gripper 6G, with reference to a knitting step diagram of FIG. 6. In FIG. 6, the FB and the BB are indicated by thick lines. The uppercase letters in the upper margin indicate the positions of the needles. The 'T + number' in the left column indicates the knitting step number. Straight arrows indicate the directions in which the corresponding stitch is moved or the movable gripper 6G is moved.

[0038] In Embodiment 4, the first stitch row 1 shown in FIG. 3 of Embodiment 1 is knitted, and then a tubular second stitch row 2 is knitted following the first stitch row 1. In step T1 in FIG. 6, the state after the second stitch row 2 has been completely knitted is shown. The edge yarn 9 extending from the first stitch row 1 (FIG. 3) is gripped by the movable gripper 6G.

[0039] In steps T2 to T5, the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around a specific stitch 4 held on a needle E of the BB (corresponding to step C). In this example, the specific stitch 4 is a stitch in the second stitch row 2 held on the BB at the time of step T1. Unlike this example, the specific stitch 4 may be a stitch in another stitch row following the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction, for example, a stitch in the third stitch row 3 shown in FIG. 3.

[0040] In step T2, the specific stitch 4 held on the needle E of the BB is moved to a needle F of the FB. In step T3, the movable gripper 6G is moved to the left so that the movable gripper 6G crosses the specific stitch 4. In step T4, the specific stitch 4 is returned to the needle E of the BB. The edge yarn 9 is wrapped around outward of the specific stitch 4. In step T5, the movable gripper 6G is moved to the right so that the movable gripper 6G crosses the specific stitch 4. Through the series of processes, the state is realized where the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4. Furthermore, the edge yarn 9 is pulled as a result of the movement of the movable gripper 6G during the series of processes, and thus the stitches constituting the first stitch row 1 (FIG. 3) connected to the edge yarn 9 are made denser than those during knitting. In this example, the knitting from step T2 to step T5 in FIG. 6 is repeated once more.

[0041] The state where the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4 is described with reference to a loop diagram in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 only shows the portion of the knitted fabric 5 that is knitted on the BB. The dotted lines in FIG. 7 indicate that they are connected to portions whose illustrations are omitted. The edge yarn 9 is shown in the thick line. The portion of the edge yarn 9 that is opposite to the cut end 90 is connected to the first stitch row 1. As shown in FIG. 7, upon completion of step T5, the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4 so as to encircle the specific stitch 4.

[0042] In this example, after the second round of step T5, the third stitch row 3 is knitted following the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction, and then the knitting from step T2 to step T5 is repeated once more again. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7, the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around a specific stitch 4 of the third stitch row 3, which follows the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction. Due to the edge yarn 9 being wrapped around the two specific stitches 4, it is difficult for the edge yarn 9 to come loose from the knitted fabric 5. The more times the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4, the greater the number of knitting steps is, but the edge yarn 9 is fixed to the knitted fabric 5 more strongly. As a result, the edge yarn 9 is less likely to come loose from the knitted fabric 5. The number of times of wrapping is not limited, but about 2 to 3 times of wrapping is preferable. Of course, wrapping may also be performed once.List of Reference Numerals

[0043] 1 First stitch row, 10 Stitch 2 Second stitch row 3 Third stitch row 4 Specific stitch 5 Knitted fabric, 5B Back knitted fabric portion, 5F Front knitted fabric portion, 50 Set up portion 6 Flat knitting machine 6B Needle bed, 6C Carriage, 6F Yarn feeder 6G Movable gripper, 6R Rail, 6T Tension equipment, 6Y Knitting yarn 60 Computer, 61 Processor, 62 Storage medium 65 Racking mechanism, 66 Transfer mechanism 9 Edge yarn, 90 Cut end

Examples

embodiment 1

[0014]A knitted fabric 5 of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a tubular finger portion of a glove. A set up portion 50 is formed at a fingertip portion of the tubular finger portion. After branching the portion following the set up portion 50 forward and backward, the tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape. In other words, the tubular finger portion is knitted starting from the fingertip. The tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape using a flat knitting machine. The tubular knitted fabric 5 includes a front knitted fabric portion 5F and a back knitted fabric portion 5B. Here, the knitted fabric 5 obtained by the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention is not limited to tubular finger portions but may also be other tubular knitted fabrics. Other tubular knitted fabrics may be knitwear such as, for example, pants or skirts, or industrial materials such as seat covers. The knitted fabric 5 is not limited to a tubular knitted fabric but may a...

embodiment 2

[0031 describes a knitting example where the stitches of the first stitch row 1 held on the needles of the needle beds 6B are made dense on the needle beds 6B, with reference to FIG. 4. The way of viewing of FIG. 4 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0032]In step S10 of FIG. 4, the knitting yarn 6Y that is the edge yarn 9 is gripped by the movable gripper 6G during yarn-in (corresponding to step B). In step S11 following step S10, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S12 following step S11, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0033]According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can be made denser than those during knittin...

embodiment 3

[0034 describes a knitting example where stitches of the first stitch row 1 connected to a yarn discharge portion are made denser, that is, a knitting example where the first stitch row 1 is knitted, and then the knitting yarn 6Y is gripped by the movable gripper, with reference to FIG. 5. The way of viewing of FIG. 5 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0035]In step S20 in FIG. 5, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S21 following step S20, the knitting yarn 6Y extending from the last knitted stitch 10 of the first stitch row 1 to the yarn feeder 6F is gripped by the movable gripper 6G (corresponding to step B). In step S22 following step S21, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0036]Accor...

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a knitted fabric knitting method, a knitting program for causing a flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method, and a storage medium storing the knitting program.Background Art

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a knitted fabric knitting method of knitting a set up portion, and a knitted fabric portion that follows the set up portion in the wale direction, using a flat knitting machine provided with a front needle bed and a back needle bed, which face each other. In this knitted fabric knitting method, the set up portion includes a stitch row in a zig-zag shape in which stitches are formed alternately on the front needle bed and the back needle bed.Citation ListPatent Literature

[0003] Patent Literature 1: JP 2019-112735ASummary of InventionTechnical Problem

[0004] The quality of the knitted fabric is improved when the stitches of the stitch row constituting the set up portion are in a dense state, that is, the stitches of the stitch row constituting the set up portion are small and the spacing between adjacent stitches thereof is narrow. Furthermore, even in the region of the knitted fabric other than the set up portion, the quality of the knitted fabric may be improved if the stitches of the stitch rows constituting that region are in a dense state. Accordingly, there is a need to form stitches that are even denser than the smallest stitches defined by the hardware configuration of a flat knitting machine used to knit the knitted fabric.

[0005] In light of the above-described circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a knitted fabric knitting method that enables the stitches of any stitch row to be in a denser state than those during knitting. Another object of the present invention is to provide a knitting program for causing a flat knitting machine to execute the above-described knitted fabric knitting method, and a storage medium storing this knitting program.Solution to Problem

[0006] <1> An aspect of the present invention relates to a knitted fabric knitting method for knitting a knitted fabric, using a flat knitting machine provided with a plurality of needle beds facing each other, a yarn feeder configured to supply a knitting yarn between the plurality of needle beds, and a movable gripper configured to grip the knitting yarn, the movable gripper being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds, characterized by including following steps A to C: a step A of knitting a first stitch row, which is part of the knitted fabric, using the yarn feeder; a step B of gripping, using the movable gripper, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row outward of a knitting range of the first stitch row, the step B being performed before or after the step A; and a step C of applying tension to the knitting yarn extending between the movable gripper and the first stitch row, the step C being performed after the steps A and B. Examples of the method of applying tension to the knitting yarn extending between the movable gripper and the first stitch row include a method of moving the movable gripper, a method of knitting the knitted fabric while the movable gripper holds the knitting yarn, or a method of racking the needle bed while the movable gripper holds the knitting yarn. In the second method described above, by performing knitting, the first stitch row is fed below the needle bed gap. When the first stitch row descends below the needle bed gap while the movable gripper holds the knitting yarn, tension is applied to the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row to the movable gripper due to the weight of the knitted fabric, pulling of a knitted fabric lowering device, and the like. In other words, this achieves the same effect as moving the movable gripper to pull the knitting yarn. <2> In the step C included in the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <1>, tension may be applied to the knitting yarn by moving the movable gripper to pull the knitting yarn. <3> In the step C included in the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <1> or <2>, the knitting yarn may be wrapped around a specific stitch that is one of a plurality of stitches held on one of the needle beds during the execution of the step C, by moving the movable gripper so that the movable gripper crosses the specific stitch and moving the specific stitch to the opposing needle bed after the movable gripper has crossed the specific stitch. Here, the opposing needle bed in the step C refers to a needle bed that faces the needle bed on which the specific stitch was held before the yarn feeder crosses the specific stitch. <4> An aspect of the present invention relates to a knitting program readable by a computer configured to control a flat knitting machine provided with a plurality of needle beds facing each other, a yarn feeder configured to supply a knitting yarn between the plurality of needle beds, and a movable gripper configured to grip the knitting yarn, the movable gripper being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds. The knitting program of the present invention causes the flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method according to any one of the above-described items <1> to <3>. <5> An aspect of the present invention relates to a storage medium storing the knitting program according to the above-described item <4>. Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0007] In the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention, after knitting the first stitch row, tension is applied to the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row to the movable gripper. The first stitch row may be composed of a single stitch or multiple stitches. By applying tension to the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row after knitting the first stitch row, at least one stitch constituting the first stitch row can be made denser than during knitting, that is, denser than when it is formed by knocking over the old stitch. With this knitted fabric knitting method, by increasing the tension applied to the knitting yarn, it is also possible to form stitches that are even denser than the smallest stitches defined by the hardware configuration of the flat knitting machine, which will be described later.

[0008] In the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <2>, by moving the movable gripper, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row to the movable gripper is pulled. Accordingly, by varying the moving speed and moving distance of the movable gripper, it is easier to adjust the tension to be applied to the knitting yarn.

[0009] In the knitted fabric knitting method according to the above-described item <3>, the knitting yarn gripped by the movable gripper is wrapped around the specific stitch. During the process of wrapping the knitting yarn around the specific stitch, the knitting yarn extending from the first stitch row is pulled, allowing the stitches of the first stitch row to be made denser than those during knitting. Furthermore, since the knitting yarn is fixed by wrapping around the specific stitch, the dense state of the first stitch row is easily maintained. Furthermore, when the knitting yarn gripped by the movable gripper is an edge yarn with a cut end, the edge yarn is fixed by wrapping around the specific stitch, making it less likely for the edge yarn entangled in the knitted fabric to come loose from the knitted fabric.

[0010] With the knitting program of the present invention, it is possible to cause a flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention. The computer that executes the knitting program may be included in the flat knitting machine, or may be connected to the flat knitting machine in a wired or wireless manner.

[0011] With the storage medium storing the knitting program of the present invention, it is possible to cause a flat knitting machine to execute the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention. During the execution of the knitting program, the storage medium may be included in the flat knitting machine, or may be connected to the flat knitting machine in a wired or wireless manner. The storage medium may also be a portable storage medium such as a USB memory.Brief Description of Drawings

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a knitted fabric according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating a flat knitting machine for knitting the knitted fabric according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 5 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 6 is a knitting step diagram illustrating a knitted fabric knitting method according to Embodiment 4. FIG. 7 is a loop diagram illustrating part of a knitted fabric according to Embodiment 4. Description of Embodiments

[0013] The following will describe a knitted fabric knitting method, a knitting program, and a storage medium according to embodiments with reference to the drawings.<Embodiment 1><<Knitted Fabric>>

[0014] A knitted fabric 5 of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a tubular finger portion of a glove. A set up portion 50 is formed at a fingertip portion of the tubular finger portion. After branching the portion following the set up portion 50 forward and backward, the tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape. In other words, the tubular finger portion is knitted starting from the fingertip. The tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape using a flat knitting machine. The tubular knitted fabric 5 includes a front knitted fabric portion 5F and a back knitted fabric portion 5B. Here, the knitted fabric 5 obtained by the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention is not limited to tubular finger portions but may also be other tubular knitted fabrics. Other tubular knitted fabrics may be knitwear such as, for example, pants or skirts, or industrial materials such as seat covers. The knitted fabric 5 is not limited to a tubular knitted fabric but may also be a single-layer knitted fabric.

[0015] An edge yarn 9 extends from the starting end of the set up portion 50. In other words, the edge yarn 9 in this example is an edge yarn 9 of a yarn-in portion. A cut end 90 is formed at an end portion of the edge yarn 9. The edge yarn 9 is incorporated into the knitted fabric 5 so as to be inconspicuous. The treatment of the edge yarn 9 is performed, for example, by hand.

[0016] In this example, the process to bring the stitches of the stitch row constituting the set up portion 50 into a dense state after knitting the stitch row is performed by the flat knitting machine. Hereinafter, the configuration of the flat knitting machine will be first described, followed by the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention.<<Flat Knitting Machine>>

[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating an example of a flat knitting machine 6 for knitting the above-described knitted fabric 5. The flat knitting machine 6 is a two-bed flat knitting machine provided with a pair of needle beds 6B arranged facing each other in the paper depth direction. The pair of needle beds 6B are also referred to as a front needle bed (hereinafter, FB) and a back needle bed (hereinafter, BB), respectively. The flat knitting machine 6 includes a racking mechanism 65 that shifts the relative positions of the FB and BB in the direction along the length of the FB and BB. The racking mechanism 65 may employ a known configuration. The flat knitting machine 6 for knitting the knitted fabric 5 may also be a four-bed flat knitting machine provided with a lower front needle bed, a lower back needle bed, an upper front needle bed, and an upper back needle bed.

[0018] Each of the needle beds 6B has a plurality of needles arranged in parallel. These needles are driven by a cam system mounted on a carriage 6C, which reciprocates on the needle beds 6B. The cam system includes a transfer cam, which is a transfer mechanism 66 that moves stitches between the FB and the BB. The needles may be latch needles equipped with a latch that opens and closes the hook, or compound needles equipped with a slider that opens and closes the hook. The flat knitting machine 6 further includes a plurality of yarn feeders 6F that supply a knitting yarn 6Y to the needle bed gap formed between the pair of needle beds 6B. Each yarn feeder 6F is mounted on one of a plurality of rails 6R and travels along the rail 6R. The plurality of rails 6R extend parallel to the needle beds 6B above the needle beds 6B. The knitting yarn 6Y is supplied to the yarn feeder 6F from a tension equipment 6T through a side tension device (not shown).

[0019] Here, according to the hardware configuration of the flat knitting machine 6, the smallest stitches can be formed when knitting, for example, the following two patterns. First, when knitting the set up portion 50 by forming pick up stitches in a zig-zag shape between the FB and the BB, the stitches of the set up portion 50 are the smallest stitches. Second, when determining the stitch size using the cam system included in the carriage 6C and performing knitting with a stitch value of zero, the smallest stitches are also formed.

[0020] The flat knitting machine 6 of this example is provided with a movable gripper 6G for gripping knitting yarn. The movable gripper 6G is configured to be movable in the direction along the length of the needle beds 6B. Therefore, the movable gripper 6G can move in the direction along the needle beds 6B while gripping the knitting yarn. Known movable grippers, such as those described in WO 2009 / 084193 and the like, may be used for the movable gripper 6G. A cutter (not shown) for cutting the knitting yarn 6Y may be formed in one piece with the movable gripper 6G.

[0021] The flat knitting machine 6 includes a computer 60 for controlling the flat knitting machine 6. Control of the flat knitting machine 6 includes controlling the travel of the carriage 6C, the operation of the cam system mounted on the carriage 6C, the travel of the yarn feeder 6F, and the like.

[0022] The computer 60 includes a processor 61 and a storage medium 62. The processor 61 is any one of a variety of processors suitable for controlling the computer 60. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or the like.

[0023] The storage medium 62 stores a knitting program for causing the flat knitting machine 6 to knit the knitted fabric 5. The knitting program in this example includes instructions for instructing the flat knitting machine 6 to execute the knitted fabric knitting method, which will be described later. The above-described processor 61 executes the instructions included in the knitting program to cause the flat knitting machine 6 to perform knitting operations.

[0024] Unlike this example, the computer that controls the flat knitting machine 6 based on the knitting program of this example may be another computer connected to the flat knitting machine 6 via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet.<<Knitted Fabric Knitting Method>>

[0025] A specific knitting method for knitting the knitted fabric 5 using the above-described flat knitting machine 6 is described with reference to a knitting step diagram of FIG. 3. The 'S + number' enclosed in a square in the drawing indicates the knitting step number. The black dots represent the needles on the needle bed 6B, and the inverted triangle mark represents the yarn feeder 6F.

[0026] In step S1, the knitting yarn 6Y extending from the side tension device of the flat knitting machine 6 (FIG. 2) to the yarn feeder 6F is gripped by the movable gripper 6G (corresponding to step B). This knitting yarn 6Y is the edge yarn 9 of the yarn-in portion. The edge yarn 9 has the cut end 90.

[0027] In step S2, the yarn feeder 6F is moved, and a first stitch row 1 that constitutes the set up portion 50 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S2, the yarn feeder 6F is further moved, and a tubular second stitch row 2, which follows the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, and a tubular third stitch row 3, which follows the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction, are knitted. The second stitch row 2 and the third stitch row 3 constitute the portion of the tubular knitted fabric 5 shown in FIG. 1 that follows the set up portion 50 in the wale direction. FIG. 3 shows the first stitch row 1, the second stitch row 2, and the third stitch row 3.

[0028] In step S3, by moving the movable gripper 6G to pull the edge yarn 9, at least some of the plurality of stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 are made denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C). The state where the stitches 10 of the first stitch row 1 are denser than those during knitting refers to a state where the stitches 10 of the first stitch row 1 are smaller and the spacing between adjacent stitches 10 is smaller, than in step S2. Among the plurality of stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1, stitches 10 closer to the edge yarn 9 tend to become smaller, and stitches 10 farther from the edge yarn 9 tend not to become smaller.

[0029] In this example, the direction in which the movable gripper 6G is moved is a direction away from the first stitch row 1, as indicated by the white-filled arrow. The movable gripper 6G may be moved in the direction opposite to the white-filled arrow to pull the edge yarn 9, but this makes it slightly less likely for the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 to become dense. Unlike this example, the movement of the movable gripper 6G may be performed after the formation of the second stitch row 2 and before the formation of the third stitch row 3, or after the formation of a not-shown stitch row following the third stitch row 3.

[0030] According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, after the first stitch row 1 is released from the needle beds 6B, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can be made denser than those during knitting. According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, it is possible to make stitches denser than the smallest stitches that are knitted based on the hardware configuration of the flat knitting machine 6. The first stitch row 1 in this example forms the set up portion 50 of the tubular finger portion, which is the knitted fabric 5, shown in FIG. 1, and thus the stitches constituting the set up portion 50 are made denser. As a result, the stitches branching forward and backward from the set up portion 50 are made denser, reducing the likelihood that a hole is formed at the tip of the tubular finger portion and improving the quality of the tubular finger portion.<Embodiment 2>

[0031] Embodiment 2 describes a knitting example where the stitches of the first stitch row 1 held on the needles of the needle beds 6B are made dense on the needle beds 6B, with reference to FIG. 4. The way of viewing of FIG. 4 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0032] In step S10 of FIG. 4, the knitting yarn 6Y that is the edge yarn 9 is gripped by the movable gripper 6G during yarn-in (corresponding to step B). In step S11 following step S10, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S12 following step S11, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0033] According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can be made denser than those during knitting the first stitch row 1. Therefore, it is possible to knit a detailed knitted fabric 5.<Embodiment 3>

[0034] Embodiment 3 describes a knitting example where stitches of the first stitch row 1 connected to a yarn discharge portion are made denser, that is, a knitting example where the first stitch row 1 is knitted, and then the knitting yarn 6Y is gripped by the movable gripper, with reference to FIG. 5. The way of viewing of FIG. 5 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0035] In step S20 in FIG. 5, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S21 following step S20, the knitting yarn 6Y extending from the last knitted stitch 10 of the first stitch row 1 to the yarn feeder 6F is gripped by the movable gripper 6G (corresponding to step B). In step S22 following step S21, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0036] According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can also be made denser than those during knitting the first stitch row 1. Therefore, it is possible to knit a detailed knitted fabric 5.<Embodiment 4>

[0037] Embodiment 4 describes a knitting example different from the knitting examples of Embodiments 1 to 3 in way of moving the movable gripper 6G, with reference to a knitting step diagram of FIG. 6. In FIG. 6, the FB and the BB are indicated by thick lines. The uppercase letters in the upper margin indicate the positions of the needles. The 'T + number' in the left column indicates the knitting step number. Straight arrows indicate the directions in which the corresponding stitch is moved or the movable gripper 6G is moved.

[0038] In Embodiment 4, the first stitch row 1 shown in FIG. 3 of Embodiment 1 is knitted, and then a tubular second stitch row 2 is knitted following the first stitch row 1. In step T1 in FIG. 6, the state after the second stitch row 2 has been completely knitted is shown. The edge yarn 9 extending from the first stitch row 1 (FIG. 3) is gripped by the movable gripper 6G.

[0039] In steps T2 to T5, the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around a specific stitch 4 held on a needle E of the BB (corresponding to step C). In this example, the specific stitch 4 is a stitch in the second stitch row 2 held on the BB at the time of step T1. Unlike this example, the specific stitch 4 may be a stitch in another stitch row following the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction, for example, a stitch in the third stitch row 3 shown in FIG. 3.

[0040] In step T2, the specific stitch 4 held on the needle E of the BB is moved to a needle F of the FB. In step T3, the movable gripper 6G is moved to the left so that the movable gripper 6G crosses the specific stitch 4. In step T4, the specific stitch 4 is returned to the needle E of the BB. The edge yarn 9 is wrapped around outward of the specific stitch 4. In step T5, the movable gripper 6G is moved to the right so that the movable gripper 6G crosses the specific stitch 4. Through the series of processes, the state is realized where the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4. Furthermore, the edge yarn 9 is pulled as a result of the movement of the movable gripper 6G during the series of processes, and thus the stitches constituting the first stitch row 1 (FIG. 3) connected to the edge yarn 9 are made denser than those during knitting. In this example, the knitting from step T2 to step T5 in FIG. 6 is repeated once more.

[0041] The state where the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4 is described with reference to a loop diagram in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 only shows the portion of the knitted fabric 5 that is knitted on the BB. The dotted lines in FIG. 7 indicate that they are connected to portions whose illustrations are omitted. The edge yarn 9 is shown in the thick line. The portion of the edge yarn 9 that is opposite to the cut end 90 is connected to the first stitch row 1. As shown in FIG. 7, upon completion of step T5, the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4 so as to encircle the specific stitch 4.

[0042] In this example, after the second round of step T5, the third stitch row 3 is knitted following the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction, and then the knitting from step T2 to step T5 is repeated once more again. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7, the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around a specific stitch 4 of the third stitch row 3, which follows the second stitch row 2 in the wale direction. Due to the edge yarn 9 being wrapped around the two specific stitches 4, it is difficult for the edge yarn 9 to come loose from the knitted fabric 5. The more times the edge yarn 9 is wrapped around the specific stitch 4, the greater the number of knitting steps is, but the edge yarn 9 is fixed to the knitted fabric 5 more strongly. As a result, the edge yarn 9 is less likely to come loose from the knitted fabric 5. The number of times of wrapping is not limited, but about 2 to 3 times of wrapping is preferable. Of course, wrapping may also be performed once.List of Reference Numerals

[0043] 1 First stitch row, 10 Stitch 2 Second stitch row 3 Third stitch row 4 Specific stitch 5 Knitted fabric, 5B Back knitted fabric portion, 5F Front knitted fabric portion, 50 Set up portion 6 Flat knitting machine 6B Needle bed, 6C Carriage, 6F Yarn feeder 6G Movable gripper, 6R Rail, 6T Tension equipment, 6Y Knitting yarn 60 Computer, 61 Processor, 62 Storage medium 65 Racking mechanism, 66 Transfer mechanism 9 Edge yarn, 90 Cut end

Examples

embodiment 1

[0014]A knitted fabric 5 of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a tubular finger portion of a glove. A set up portion 50 is formed at a fingertip portion of the tubular finger portion. After branching the portion following the set up portion 50 forward and backward, the tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape. In other words, the tubular finger portion is knitted starting from the fingertip. The tubular finger portion is knitted into a tubular shape using a flat knitting machine. The tubular knitted fabric 5 includes a front knitted fabric portion 5F and a back knitted fabric portion 5B. Here, the knitted fabric 5 obtained by the knitted fabric knitting method of the present invention is not limited to tubular finger portions but may also be other tubular knitted fabrics. Other tubular knitted fabrics may be knitwear such as, for example, pants or skirts, or industrial materials such as seat covers. The knitted fabric 5 is not limited to a tubular knitted fabric but may a...

embodiment 2

[0031 describes a knitting example where the stitches of the first stitch row 1 held on the needles of the needle beds 6B are made dense on the needle beds 6B, with reference to FIG. 4. The way of viewing of FIG. 4 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0032]In step S10 of FIG. 4, the knitting yarn 6Y that is the edge yarn 9 is gripped by the movable gripper 6G during yarn-in (corresponding to step B). In step S11 following step S10, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S12 following step S11, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0033]According to the knitted fabric knitting method of this example, the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 can be made denser than those during knittin...

embodiment 3

[0034 describes a knitting example where stitches of the first stitch row 1 connected to a yarn discharge portion are made denser, that is, a knitting example where the first stitch row 1 is knitted, and then the knitting yarn 6Y is gripped by the movable gripper, with reference to FIG. 5. The way of viewing of FIG. 5 is the same as for FIG. 3.

[0035]In step S20 in FIG. 5, the yarn feeder 6F is moved and a first stitch row 1 is knitted (corresponding to step A). In step S21 following step S20, the knitting yarn 6Y extending from the last knitted stitch 10 of the first stitch row 1 to the yarn feeder 6F is gripped by the movable gripper 6G (corresponding to step B). In step S22 following step S21, before knitting a stitch row (not shown) following the first stitch row 1 in the wale direction, the movable gripper 6G is moved to pull the edge yarn 9, thereby making the stitches 10 constituting the first stitch row 1 denser than those during knitting (corresponding to step C).

[0036]Accor...

Claims

1. A knitted fabric knitting method for knitting a knitted fabric (5), using a flat knitting machine (6) provided with a plurality of needle beds (6B) facing each other, a yarn feeder (6F) configured to supply a knitting yarn (6Y) between the plurality of needle beds (6B), and a movable gripper (6G) configured to grip the knitting yarn (6Y), the movable gripper (6G) being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds (6B), <b>characterized by comprising: a step A of knitting a first stitch row (1), which is part of the knitted fabric (5), using the yarn feeder (6F); a step B of gripping, using the movable gripper (6G), the knitting yarn (6Y) extending from the first stitch row (1) outward of a knitting range of the first stitch row (1), the step B being performed before or after the step A; and a step C of applying tension to the knitting yarn (6Y) extending between the movable gripper (6G) and the first stitch row (1), the step C being performed after the steps A and B.

2. The knitted fabric knitting method according to claim 1, wherein, in the step C, tension is applied to the knitting yarn (6Y) by moving the movable gripper (6G) to pull the knitting yarn (6Y).

3. The knitted fabric knitting method according to claim 2, wherein, in the step C, the knitting yarn (6Y) is wrapped around a specific stitch (4) that is one of a plurality of stitches held on one of the needle beds (6B) during the execution of the step C, by moving the movable gripper (6G) so that the movable gripper (6G) crosses the specific stitch (4) and moving the specific stitch (4) to the opposing needle bed after the movable gripper (6G) has crossed the specific stitch (4).

4. A knitting program readable by a computer (60) configured to control a flat knitting machine (6) provided with a plurality of needle beds (6B) facing each other, a yarn feeder (6F) configured to supply a knitting yarn (6Y) between the plurality of needle beds (6B), and a movable gripper (6G) configured to grip the knitting yarn (6Y), the movable gripper (6G) being configured to be movable in a direction along a length of the plurality of needle beds (6B), characterized in that the knitting program causes the flat knitting machine (6) to execute the knitted fabric knitting method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A storage medium (62) storing the knitting program according to claim 4.

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