Thread processing machine

Abstract

To prevent mixing of a yarn poor in quality with a winding package for a product.SOLUTION: A machine base control device 5 of a false-twist texturing machine 1 generates a residual quantity related information which is numerical value information regarding a remaining quantity of a yarn Y remaining in a yarn feeding package Ps1 through an arithmetic operation. The machine base control device 5 controls a cutter of an auto doffer 10 to cut the yarn Y when it is determined that a quantity of the yarn Y included in a winding package Pw reaches a prescribed target winding quantity, and executes forming completion processing for controlling a winding device 19 to complete forming of the winding package Pw. Then, the machine base control device 5 executes replacement processing for controlling the auto doffer 10 to replace the winding package Pw with a new winding bobbin Bw. The machine base control device 5 executes the forming completion processing when it is determined that a numerical value of the residual quantity related information becomes equal to or lower than a prescribed value, thereby causing the winding device 19 to form a winding package Pw3s (forming forcible completion winding package) including the yarn Y smaller in quantity than the target winding quantity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a yarn processing machine.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus (yarn processing machine) that processes yarn unwound from a supply package (described as a supply bobbin in Patent Document 1) formed by winding yarn around a supply bobbin and winds it onto a winding bobbin to form a wound body (winding package).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Among the yarn layers formed by the yarn contained in the above-described supply package, the inner portion in the radial direction of the supply package (that is, the portion near the supply bobbin; hereinafter referred to as the inner layer portion) may have inferior quality compared to the outer portion in the radial direction of the inner layer portion. The reasons are as follows. First, the supply package is generally formed by winding yarn around a supply bobbin having slits formed on its circumferential surface. When yarn starts to be wound around such a supply bobbin, the yarn is handled so that the tension of the yarn becomes higher than during winding in order to securely hold the yarn at the portion where the slits of the supply bobbin are formed. In addition, when yarn starts to be wound around a supply bobbin that is generally harder than the yarn, the yarn tends to be damaged due to contact with the supply bobbin or the like. If the yarn in the inner layer portion with inferior quality is mixed into the winding package for products, the grade of the winding package may be lowered.

[0005] The objective of this invention is to prevent inferior quality yarn from being mixed into product winding packages. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The yarn processing machine of the first invention is configured to process yarn unwound from a yarn supply package and wind it onto a winding bobbin, comprising: a yarn supply package holding unit for holding the yarn supply package; a winding device configured to wind yarn onto the winding bobbin to form a winding package; a cutting unit configured to cut the yarn before it is wound onto the winding bobbin; a bobbin exchange unit configured to exchange the winding package formed in the winding device with a new winding bobbin as the winding bobbin, and to be able to thread yarn onto the new winding bobbin; and at least a formation completion process that controls the cutting unit to cut the yarn and controls the winding device to complete the formation of the winding package; and a process that controls the bobbin exchange unit to complete the formation of the winding package. The winding device comprises a control unit configured to perform an exchange process of exchanging a winding package with a new winding bobbin and putting yarn on the new winding bobbin, wherein the control unit determines that the amount of yarn contained in the winding package being formed has reached a predetermined target winding amount, performs the formation completion process and the exchange process, calculates and generates remaining amount-related information, which is numerical information about the remaining amount of yarn in the yarn package being unwound and held in the yarn package holding unit, and performs the formation completion process when it determines that the numerical value of the remaining amount-related information has fallen below a predetermined value, thereby causing the winding device to form a winding package with a forced formation completion winding package having less yarn than the target winding amount.

[0007] In this invention, the formation of the forced-termination winding package is terminated when the remaining amount of yarn in the yarn supply package falls below a predetermined value, that is, when the yarn in the inner layer begins to unwind from the yarn supply package. This prevents inferior quality yarn from being included in the forced-termination winding package as a product. Therefore, it is possible to prevent inferior quality yarn from being mixed into the winding package for the product.

[0008] The yarn processing machine of the second invention is characterized in that, in the first invention, the control unit stores the individual information of the formed forced termination winding package and the information related to the determination of the remaining amount in association with each other.

[0009] In this invention, by utilizing the information stored in the control unit, a winding package that has been forcibly terminated during formation can be distinguished from other winding packages.

[0010] The yarn processing machine of the third invention is configured in the first or second invention, wherein the yarn supply package holding unit is configured to hold a first yarn supply package and a second yarn supply package, which is separate from the first yarn supply package, as the yarn supply package, and is configured to supply yarn without interruption when a yarn connection portion is formed by connecting the starting end of the yarn contained in the first yarn supply package and the ending end of the yarn contained in the second yarn supply package, and the yarn supply package holding unit is configured to detect information indicating the occurrence of a yarn supply package switch when the unwinding of the yarn from the first yarn supply package is completed, the yarn connection portion starts to move, and the unwinding of the yarn from the second yarn supply package begins, and the control unit, when it makes the determination of the remaining amount decrease during the unwinding of the yarn from the first yarn supply package, performs the formation termination process to terminate the formation of the forced formation termination winding package, and after the forced formation termination winding package is formed, The method is characterized by performing an exchange process, winding the yarn that has been unwound and processed from the first yarn supply package after the determination of reduced remaining yarn onto the new winding bobbin attached to the winding device by the exchange process after the formation of the forced-termination winding package, thereby forming an inner-layer-containing winding package in the winding device, which is the winding package having the yarn that has been unwound from the first yarn supply package after the determination of reduced remaining yarn, and when a switching determination is made based on the detection result by the detection unit, determining that a yarn supply package switch occurred during the formation of the inner-layer-containing winding package, the formation termination process is performed to terminate the formation of the inner-layer-containing winding package, and after the formation of the inner-layer-containing winding package, the exchange process is performed, winding the yarn that has been unwound and processed from the second yarn supply package after the switching determination onto the new winding bobbin attached to the winding device by the exchange process after the formation of the inner-layer-containing winding package.

[0011] In this invention, even after the unwinding of yarn from the first yarn supply package is complete, the unwinding of yarn from the second yarn supply package begins, allowing for a continuous supply of yarn. However, in such a configuration, the formation of the inner layer-containing winding package may continue even after the unwinding of yarn contained in the inner layer of the first yarn supply package is complete. In such a case, even the high-quality yarn contained in the outer layer of the second yarn supply package may be mixed in with the inner layer-containing winding package in large quantities, potentially wasting the high-quality yarn. Therefore, in this invention, when a switching decision is made, the inner layer-containing winding package and a new winding bobbin are exchanged. This allows the yarn contained in the second yarn supply package to be wound onto the new winding bobbin immediately after the yarn supply package switch occurs. Consequently, it is possible to suppress the mixing of high-quality yarn contained in the second yarn supply package with the inner layer-containing winding package in large quantities.

[0012] The yarn processing machine of the fourth invention is characterized in that, in the third invention, the control unit stores the individual information of the inner layer-containing winding package and the information related to the switching determination in association with each other.

[0013] In this invention, by utilizing the information stored in the control unit, a winding package containing an inner layer can be distinguished from other winding packages.

[0014] The yarn processing machine of the fifth invention is characterized in that, in the third or fourth invention, it includes a marking unit configured to perform a marking operation to affix a mark to the winding package being formed by the winding device, and the control unit, when it makes the switching determination, controls the marking unit to perform an inner layer-containing marking operation to affix the mark to the inner layer-containing winding package as the marking operation.

[0015] In this invention, by performing an inner layer marking operation, it is possible to distinguish between a winding package without a mark and a winding package containing an inner layer based on their appearance.

[0016] The sixth invention, a yarn processing machine, is characterized in that, in any of the first to fourth inventions, it includes a marking unit configured to perform a marking operation to affix a mark to the winding package being formed by the winding device, and the control unit, when it determines that the remaining amount is decreasing, controls the marking unit to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation as the marking operation to affix the mark to the winding package that has been forcibly terminated in formation.

[0017] In this invention, by performing an inner layer avoidance marking operation, it is possible to distinguish between a winding package without markings and a winding package whose formation has been forcibly terminated based on its appearance.

[0018] The yarn processing machine of the seventh invention is characterized in that, in the fifth invention, when the control unit determines that the remaining amount has decreased, it controls the marking unit to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation, which involves attaching the mark to the winding package that is forcibly terminated in formation, as the marking operation.

[0019] In this invention, by performing an inner layer avoidance marking operation, it is possible to distinguish between a winding package without markings and a winding package whose formation has been forcibly terminated based on its appearance.

[0020] The yarn processing machine of the eighth invention is characterized in that, in the seventh invention, the marking unit is configured to perform the marking operation in such a way that it can distinguish between the formed forced-termination winding package and the inner layer-containing winding package, and the control unit controls the marking unit to perform the inner layer avoidance marking operation and the inner layer-containing marking operation in such a way that it can distinguish between the formed forced-termination winding package and the inner layer-containing winding package.

[0021] In this invention, the forced-termination winding package and the inner layer-containing winding package can be easily distinguished by their appearance. Therefore, even if the forced-termination winding package and the inner layer-containing winding package are unintentionally mixed, they can be separated.

[0022] The yarn processing machine according to the ninth invention is the same as any one of the fifth to eighth inventions, wherein the marking unit includes the winding device, and the winding device includes a rotation drive unit configured to rotationally drive the winding package around the central axis of the winding package, a traverse guide for oscillating the yarn, and a guide drive unit configured to reciprocally drive the traverse guide along the axial direction of the winding package. The traverse unit includes a traverse unit, and the control unit controls the rotation drive unit to rotate the winding package, and controls the traverse unit to stop the traverse guide at a predetermined position in the axial direction, thereby causing the winding device to perform the marking operation.

[0023] In the present invention, as a marking operation, so-called rod winding can be applied to the winding package. Therefore, the marking operation can be performed by simple means.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a yarn processing facility including a false twist processing machine according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a side view of a false twist processing machine. [Figure 3] It is a schematic diagram showing the false twist processing machine developed along the yarn path. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram showing a selection screen or the like of the processing mode of the false twist processing machine. [Figure 5] (a) to (c) are graphs showing the relationship between the yarn amount and time in the conventional processing mode. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the procedure for replacing the winding bobbin as the remaining amount of the yarn contained in the feed package decreases. [Figure 7] (a) to (c) are graphs showing the relationship between the yarn amount and time in the processing mode for forming an inner layer-containing winding package. [Figure 8] (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing the winding package, and (c) is an explanatory diagram showing information regarding the rank of the winding package. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram of a false twisting machine relating to a modified example. [Figure 10] A schematic diagram of a false twisting machine relating to another modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] (Outline of yarn processing equipment) Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described. The outline of the yarn processing equipment 100, including the false twisting machine 1 (described later) according to this embodiment, will be described with reference to the block diagram in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, the yarn processing equipment 100 has a plurality of false twisting machines 1 (yarn processing machines of the present invention) and a control device 101. The plurality of false twisting machines 1 are arranged, for example, along a predetermined longitudinal direction of the machine base (see Figure 2, etc.). Each false twisting machine 1 is configured to perform false twisting on yarn Y (see Figure 2, etc.), which is made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon (polyamide fiber). Yarn Y is, for example, a multifilament yarn made of a plurality of filaments (not shown). Each false twisting machine 1 is configured, as will be described later, to process the yarn Y supplied from the yarn feeding unit 2 by the processing unit 3 and wind it onto a winding bobbin Bw mounted on the winding unit 4 to form a winding package Pw. Each false twisting machine 1 is controlled by a machine base control device 5, which is a computer device provided in each false twisting machine 1.

[0026] The management device 101 is a host computer for centrally managing information acquired by multiple machine control devices 5. The management device 101 has a management input unit 101a (e.g., keyboard), a management output unit 101b (e.g., display), and a management storage unit 101c (e.g., hard disk). The management device 101 and the multiple machine control devices 5 together constitute the information management unit 110 in this embodiment.

[0027] (Overall configuration of the false twisting machine) Next, the overall configuration of the false twisting machine 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a side view of the false twisting machine 1. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the false twisting machine 1 unfolded along the path (yarn path) of the yarn Y. The direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 2 is defined as the longitudinal direction of the machine base, and the left-right direction of the paper is defined as the width direction of the machine base. The direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction and the width direction of the machine base is defined as the up-down direction (vertical direction) where gravity acts. The direction in which the yarn Y travels is defined as the yarn travel direction. The false twisting machine 1 comprises a yarn supply unit 2 for supplying multiple yarns Y, a processing unit 3 for processing (false twisting) the multiple yarns Y supplied from the yarn supply unit 2, a winding unit 4 for winding the multiple yarns Y processed by the processing unit 3 onto a winding bobbin Bw, and a machine base control device 5 (control unit of the present invention).

[0028] The yarn supply unit 2 has a creel stand 6 that holds multiple yarn supply packages Ps and supplies multiple yarns Y to the processing unit 3. The processing unit 3 is configured to unwind and process the multiple yarns Y from the yarn supply unit 2. The processing unit 3 is configured with the following components arranged in order from the upstream side in the yarn travel direction: a first feed roller 11, a twisting guide 12, a first heating device 13, a cooling device 14, a false twist device 15, a second feed roller 16, a second heating device 17, and a third feed roller 18. These components in the processing unit 3 are provided, for example, on each of the multiple weights 9 (see Figure 3) described later. The winding unit 4 has multiple winding devices 19. Each winding device 19 winds the yarn Y that has been false twisted in the processing unit 3 onto a winding bobbin Bw to form a winding package Pw. Furthermore, the winding section 4 is provided with multiple auto doffers 10 that perform the exchange of a formed winding package Pw with a new empty winding bobbin Bw, each corresponding to one of the multiple winding devices 19.

[0029] The machine control device 5 is configured to control each component of the yarn feeding unit 2, processing unit 3, and winding unit 4. The machine control device 5 is, for example, a general-purpose computer device. The machine control device 5 has a machine input unit 5a, a machine output unit 5b, and a machine storage unit 5c (see Figure 1). The machine input unit 5a is, for example, a touch panel and / or keyboard (not shown) and is configured to be operated by an operator. The machine output unit 5b has, for example, a display (not shown) and is configured to output information. The machine storage unit 5c is configured to store various information for controlling the components of the yarn feeding unit 2, processing unit 3, and winding unit 4. Based on the various information, the machine control device 5 controls the components of the yarn feeding unit 2, processing unit 3, and winding unit 4. Alternatively, the machine control device 5 may indirectly control these components through various control devices (not shown) for controlling each component of the yarn feeding unit 2, processing unit 3, and winding unit 4. The machine control unit 5 is electrically connected to the management device 101, which is a host computer. The machine control unit 5 is capable of performing at least the "formation completion process" and the "exchange process" described later.

[0030] The false twisting machine 1 has a main machine base 7 and a winding table 8 that are spaced apart in the machine width direction. The main machine base 7 and the winding table 8 are provided to extend approximately the same length in the machine longitudinal direction. The main machine base 7 and the winding table 8 are arranged to face each other in the machine width direction. The false twisting machine 1 has a unit called a span, which includes one set of main machine bases 7 and winding tables 8. In one span, the devices are arranged so that false twisting can be performed simultaneously on multiple yarns Y running in a line in the machine longitudinal direction. In the false twisting machine 1, these spans are arranged symmetrically on the left and right sides of the paper with respect to the center line C in the machine width direction of the main machine base 7 as the axis of symmetry (the main machine base 7 is common to both the left and right spans). Multiple spans are also arranged in the machine longitudinal direction.

[0031] Furthermore, the group of components that a single thread Y passes through from the thread supply section 2 to the winding section 4 is called a "weight." The false twisting machine 1 has the same number of weights 9 (see Figure 3) as the number of winding devices 19. Roughly speaking, the multiple weights 9 are arranged in a line along the longitudinal direction of the machine base. In terms of inclusion relationships, the false twisting machine 1 has multiple spans, and each span has multiple weights 9. The false twisting machine 1 can false twist the thread Y at the weights 9 on which the thread Y is hung.

[0032] (Yarn feeding section) The configuration of the yarn feeding unit 2 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The creel stand 6 of the yarn feeding unit 2 has a plurality of yarn package holding units 20 (see Figure 3) provided corresponding to a plurality of weights 9. Each of the plurality of yarn package holding units 20 is configured to allow two yarn packages Ps to be attached and detached. That is, the yarn package holding unit 20 has two package mounting units 21. For the sake of explanation, one of the two package mounting units 21 will be called the first mounting unit 22 and the other the second mounting unit 23. The first mounting unit 22 and the second mounting unit 23 are each configured to allow one yarn package Ps to be attached and detached. The attachment and detachment of the yarn packages Ps to the package mounting units 21 is performed, for example, by an operator.

[0033] Each yarn package holding section 20 of the yarn supply section 2 is configured to supply yarn Y without interruption as follows. For example, as shown in Figure 3, yarn package Ps1, which is any one of a plurality of yarn packages Ps, is attached to the first mounting section 22. In addition, yarn package Ps2, which is different from yarn package Ps1, is attached to the second mounting section 23. Yarn Y is unwound from yarn package Ps1. Furthermore, the end of yarn Y contained in yarn package Ps1 and the start end of yarn Y contained in yarn package Ps2 are knotted (connected). As a result, a knot portion K (yarn connection portion) is formed between the two yarns Y. In this case, after yarn package Ps1 is empty, yarn Y can be supplied without interruption from yarn package Ps2. Specifically, immediately after the supply of yarn Y from yarn supply package Ps1 ends and yarn supply package Ps1 becomes empty, the knot portion K is pulled downstream in the yarn travel direction (towards the winding device 19), causing yarn Y to be unwound from yarn supply package Ps2. In other words, after the yarn Y has been completely unwound from the yarn supply package Ps attached to one package mounting section 21, the yarn Y begins to be unwound from the next yarn supply package Ps attached to the other package mounting section 21. For the sake of explanation, this event will be referred to as yarn supply package switching. This ensures that yarn Y is supplied without interruption. Subsequently, the empty yarn supply packages Ps (yarn bobbins Bs) are replaced with new yarn supply packages Ps, for example, by an operator. Furthermore, the starting end of yarn supply package Ps2 and the ending end of the new yarn supply package Ps are knotted together, for example, by an operator. By repeating this procedure, yarn Y can be supplied from the yarn supply section 2 without interruption.

[0034] A yarn detection sensor 24 (detection unit of the present invention) is positioned downstream of each yarn supply package holding unit 20 in the yarn travel direction. The yarn detection sensor 24 is configured to detect whether the yarn Y is supplied from the first mounting unit 22 or the second mounting unit 23. As shown in Figure 3, the yarn detection sensor 24 has a first detection unit 25 and a second detection unit 26. The first detection unit 25 is configured to detect whether or not the yarn Y is supplied from the first mounting unit 22. The second detection unit 26 is configured to detect whether or not the yarn Y is supplied from the second mounting unit 23. The first detection unit 25 and the second detection unit 26 are, for example, optical sensors that optically detect the yarn Y. For more details of the yarn detection sensor 24, see, for example, Japanese Patent No. 5873105. Alternatively, the first detection unit 25 and the second detection unit 26 may be, for example, contact-type sensors.

[0035] Furthermore, in the yarn travel direction, a cutter 27 is provided downstream of each yarn supply package holding section 20 and upstream of the first feed roller 11, which is configured to cut the yarn Y while it is traveling. The cutter 27 is electrically connected to the machine base control device 5.

[0036] (Processing department) The configuration of the processing section 3 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3. For the sake of clarity, only the part of the processing section 3 corresponding to one of the weights 9 will be described below.

[0037] The first feed roller 11 is configured to unwind the yarn Y from the yarn supply package Ps attached to the yarn supply unit 2 and send it to the first heating device 13. The first feed roller 11 is located upstream of the twisting guide 12 in the yarn travel direction. The conveying speed of the yarn Y by the first feed roller 11 is approximately equal to the unwinding speed V (see Figure 3) at which the yarn Y is unwound from the yarn supply package Ps. Information on the set value of the conveying speed of the yarn Y by the first feed roller 11 is stored in advance, for example, in the machine base control device 5. The cutter 27 described above is provided upstream of the first feed roller 11 in the yarn travel direction. When yarn breakage occurs, the cutter 27 cuts the yarn Y, preventing the yarn Y from becoming entangled in rotationally driven components such as the first feed roller 11.

[0038] The twist-stopping guide 12 is configured to prevent the twist applied to the yarn Y by the false twisting device 15 from propagating upstream of the twist-stopping guide 12 in the yarn travel direction. The twist-stopping guide 12 is located downstream of the first feed roller 11 in the yarn travel direction and upstream of the first heating device 13 in the yarn travel direction.

[0039] The first heating device 13 is configured to heat the yarn Y sent from the first feed roller 11. The first heating device 13 is located downstream of the twisting guide 12 in the yarn travel direction and upstream of the cooling device 14 in the yarn travel direction. In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, the first heating device 13 is assumed to be configured to heat one yarn Y, but it is not limited to this. The first heating device 13 may be configured to heat multiple yarns Y simultaneously.

[0040] The cooling device 14 is configured to cool the yarn Y heated by the first heating device 13. The cooling device 14 is located downstream of the first heating device 13 in the yarn travel direction and upstream of the false twist device 15 in the yarn travel direction. In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, the cooling device 14 is assumed to be configured to cool one yarn Y, but it is not limited to this. The cooling device 14 may be configured to cool multiple yarns Y simultaneously.

[0041] The false twisting device 15 is configured to impart twist to the yarn Y. The false twisting device 15 is, for example, a so-called disc friction type false twisting device, but is not limited to this. The false twisting device 15 is located downstream of the cooling device 14 in the yarn travel direction and upstream of the second feed roller 16 in the yarn travel direction.

[0042] The second feed roller 16 is configured to send the yarn Y processed by the false twisting device 15 to the second heating device 17. The conveying speed of the yarn Y by the second feed roller 16 is faster than the conveying speed of the yarn Y by the first feed roller 11. As a result, the yarn Y is stretched between the first feed roller 11 and the second feed roller 16. Information on the set value of the conveying speed of the yarn Y by the second feed roller 16 is stored in advance, for example, in the machine base control device 5.

[0043] The second heating device 17 is configured to heat the yarn Y fed from the second feed roller 16. The second heating device 17 extends vertically. For the sake of simplicity, the second heating device 17 is assumed to be configured to heat one yarn Y, but is not limited to this. The second heating device 17 may be configured to heat multiple yarns Y simultaneously.

[0044] The third feed roller 18 is configured to send the yarn Y, heated by the second heating device 17, to the winding device 19. The conveying speed of the yarn Y by the third feed roller 18 is slower than the conveying speed of the yarn Y by the second feed roller 16. The yarn Y is loosened between the second feed roller 16 and the third feed roller 18. Information on the set value of the conveying speed of the yarn Y by the third feed roller 18 is stored in advance, for example, in the machine base control device 5.

[0045] In the processing unit 3 configured as described above, the yarn Y, stretched between the first feed roller 11 and the second feed roller 16, is twisted by the false twisting device 15. The twist formed by the false twisting device 15 propagates to the twist-stopping guide 12, but does not propagate upstream of the twist-stopping guide 12 in the yarn running direction. The yarn Y, which has been stretched and twisted, is heated and heat-set in the first heating device 13, and then cooled in the cooling device 14. Downstream from the false twisting device 15, the yarn Y is untwisted, but the heat-setting described above maintains the wavy false twist state of each filament. Furthermore, the yarn Y, which has been false-twisted by the false twisting device 15, is relaxed between the second feed roller 16 and the third feed roller 18, heat-treated in the second heating device 17, and then guided downstream in the yarn running direction. Finally, the yarn Y fed from the third feed roller 18 is wound onto a winding bobbin Bw by the winding device 19. This forms a winding package Pw.

[0046] (Winding section) The configuration of the winding unit 4 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The winding unit 4 has a plurality of winding devices 19 (marking unit of the present invention) and a plurality of auto-doffers 10 (see Figure 2; bobbin replacement unit of the present invention) provided corresponding to each winding device 19. Each of the plurality of winding devices 19 belongs to a plurality of weights 9 (see Figure 3). Each winding device 19 is configured to wind the yarn Y onto a winding bobbin Bw. Each winding device 19 has, for example, a pivot guide 31, a traverse device 32 (traverse unit of the present invention), a cradle 33, and a winding roller 34. The pivot guide 31 is a guide that serves as a pivot point when the yarn Y is traversed. The traverse device 32 is configured to traverse the yarn Y by a traverse guide 35 attached to an endless belt that is reciprocally driven by a motor 36 (guide drive unit of the present invention). In other words, the traverse device 32 is configured to reciprocate the traverse guide 35 along the axial direction of the winding bobbin Bw (winding package Pw) (hereinafter referred to as the winding bobbin axial direction). The cradle 33 is configured to support the winding bobbin Bw (winding package Pw) so that it can rotate freely around the central axis of the winding package Pw. The winding roller 34 is configured to rotate the winding package Pw around the central axis and to apply contact pressure to the surface of the winding package Pw. The winding roller 34 is rotated by a motor 37 (rotational drive unit of the present invention) while in contact with the surface of the winding package Pw. As a result, the winding package Pw rotates due to frictional force, and contact pressure is applied to the surface of the winding package Pw, thereby shaping the winding package Pw. Alternatively, instead of the winding roller 34 being rotated, the winding package Pw may be directly rotated by a motor (not shown).

[0047] The auto-doffer 10 is configured to remove the winding package Pw from the winding device 19 and install an empty winding bobbin Bw onto the winding device 19. In other words, the auto-doffer 10 is configured to allow the exchange of the completed winding package Pw and the empty winding bobbin Bw in the winding section 4. The auto-doffer 10 also has a cutter (not shown) capable of cutting the yarn Y in the vicinity of the winding package Pw. The formation of the winding package Pw is completed when the running yarn Y is cut by the cutter. Here, even after the yarn is cut by the cutter, the yarn Y continues to be unwound from the yarn supply package Ps at approximately the same speed as when it is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw and supplied to the winding device 19. The auto-doffer 10 has a suction (not shown) capable of sucking, capturing, and holding the running yarn Y supplied to the winding device 19 after the completion of the formation of one winding package Pw and until the start of winding the yarn Y onto the next winding bobbin Bw. Next, until the thread Y is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw, the portion of the thread Y that has been sucked up by the suction mechanism is removed by suction. Furthermore, the auto-doffer 10 is configured to wind the thread Y onto the empty winding bobbin Bw mounted on the winding device 19. For more details on the structure of the auto-doffer 10, please refer to, for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6-212521.

[0048] In the winding section 4 configured as described above, the yarn Y sent from the third feed roller 18 is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw by each winding device 19, forming a winding package Pw (winding process). The winding process of the yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw (formation of the winding package Pw) is completed when the yarn Y is cut by the cutter of the auto-doffer 10 and the operation of the winding device 19 stops. Almost simultaneously, the yarn Y supplied to the winding device 19 is held in place by suction, and the formed winding package Pw is removed from the cradle 33 by the auto-doffer 10. Immediately afterward, a new empty winding bobbin Bw is mounted on the cradle 33 by the auto-doffer 10, and the yarn Y is placed on the new winding bobbin Bw. This makes it possible to start winding the yarn Y onto the new winding bobbin Bw. For the sake of explanation, the process in which the machine control device 5 controls the cutter of the auto doffer 10 to cut the thread Y and controls the winding device 19 to complete the formation of the winding package Pw will be referred to as the formation completion process. Also for the sake of explanation, the process in which the machine control device 5 controls the auto doffer 10 to exchange the completed winding package Pw for a new winding bobbin Bw and to put the thread Y onto the new winding bobbin Bw will be referred to as the exchange process.

[0049] Here, of the yarn layer formed by the yarn Y contained in the aforementioned yarn supply package Ps, the radial inner portion of the yarn supply package Ps (i.e., the portion near the yarn supply bobbin Bs; hereinafter referred to as the inner layer) may be of lower quality than the radial outer portion. Several reasons for this can be listed below. First, the yarn supply package Ps is generally formed by winding yarn onto a yarn supply bobbin Bs, which has slits (not shown) formed on its circumferential surface. When the yarn begins to be wound onto such a yarn supply bobbin Bs, the yarn Y is handled so that the tension of the yarn Y is higher than during winding in order to securely hold the yarn Y in the slit portion of the yarn supply bobbin Bs. Also, when the yarn Y begins to be wound onto the yarn supply bobbin Bs, which is generally harder than the yarn Y, the yarn Y tends to be easily damaged by contact with the yarn supply bobbin Bs, etc. If the yarn Y from the lower quality inner layer is mixed into the winding package Pw for the product, the grade of the winding package Pw may decrease.

[0050] Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to prevent inferior quality yarn Y from being mixed into the product winding package Pw, the machine control device 5 performs the processing described below. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the explanation will be limited to one predetermined weight 9 out of a plurality of weights 9.

[0051] First, as a premise, the machine control device 5 is configured to calculate the remaining amount of yarn Y contained in a yarn supply package Ps (hereinafter referred to as the "unwinding package") in which yarn Y is being unwound at a predetermined reference time (hereinafter referred to as "remaining amount calculation"). In this embodiment, the reference time means the time when the remaining amount calculation is started. Furthermore, the machine control device 5 is configured to allow pre-setting of the processing to be performed when the remaining amount of yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps decreases (hereinafter referred to as "decrease processing"). The remaining amount calculation and the decrease processing will be described in more detail below.

[0052] (Calculate remaining amount) Let's explain how to calculate the remaining amount. The machine control device 5 is configured to calculate (i.e., estimate) the remaining amount of yarn Y contained in the unraveling package at a reference time, using the initial amount information, unraveling unit amount information, and cumulative time information, which will be described later. For the sake of explanation, the initial amount information, unraveling unit amount information, and cumulative time information will be collectively referred to as basic information below.

[0053] Initial quantity information refers to the initial amount (initial weight or initial length) of yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps before the yarn Y begins to unravel. Initial quantity information is pre-set in the machine control device 5 as common information relating to all yarn supply packages Ps of all spindles 9 in one false twisting machine 1. More specifically, in this embodiment, the initial weight WF information and the fineness (weight per unit length) information of yarn Y are stored in the machine control device 5 as initial quantity information. The unit of weight of the yarn supply package Ps is, for example, kg. The fineness of yarn Y is F. The unit of fineness is, for example, dtex. Decitex is the weight (g) of yarn Y per 10,000 meters.

[0054] The unwinding unit amount information is information about the amount of yarn Y unwinded per unit time from the yarn supply package Ps. The unwinding unit amount information is, for example, the unwinding speed V information described above. In this embodiment, for the sake of explanation, it is assumed that the unwinding speed V during the winding process is approximately constant. The unit of the unwinding speed is, for example, m / min. The unwinding unit amount information is, for example, preset in the machine stand control device 5 as common information for all the spindles 9 of one false twisting machine 1. The machine stand control device 5 acquires the unwinding speed V information, for example, based on the set value of the rotation speed of the first feed roller 11.

[0055] The cumulative time information is information regarding the cumulative value (cumulative time) of time during which yarn Y is unwound from the yarn supply package Ps. For the sake of explanation, the cumulative time related to the yarn supply package Ps from which yarn Y is being unwound is called tin. The cumulative time information is acquired as follows. First, for example, when yarn Y begins to be unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1 (see Figure 3) mentioned above, the start of yarn Y unwounding in the first mounting unit 22 is detected by the yarn detection sensor 24. At this time, the machine control device 5 sets tin to a predetermined initial time (reset process). The initial time is, for example, zero. After that, the machine control device 5 increases tin according to the passage of time while yarn Y is being unwound from the yarn supply package Ps (updates tin). Also, for example, when the unwounding of yarn Y from the yarn supply package Ps is temporarily suspended due to reasons such as yarn breakage (in other words, a stop time occurs), the machine control device 5 temporarily suspends the update of tin. In this way, the machine control device 5 acquires only the time (detection time) during which the yarn Y is detected by the yarn detection sensor 24 when it is unwound from the yarn supply package Ps, as the cumulative time (tin). The machine control device 5 can acquire cumulative time information for any yarn supply package Ps when the yarn Y is being unwound from that package Ps.

[0056] Furthermore, during the winding process, the machine control device 5 determines, based on the detection results from the yarn detection sensor 24, whether a yarn supply package switchover has occurred, in which the yarn supply package Ps supplying the yarn Y is switched. For example, referring to Figure 3, a yarn supply package switchover occurs when the yarn Y from yarn supply package Ps1 is unwound to completion (unwounding complete), and the yarn Y is first unwound from yarn supply package Ps2. When the state of the yarn detection sensor 24 switches from a state in which yarn Y is detected by one of the first detection unit 25 and the second detection unit 26 to a state in which yarn Y is detected by the other of the first detection unit 25 and the second detection unit 26, the machine control device 5 determines that a yarn supply package switchover has occurred. When the machine control device 5 determines that a yarn supply package switchover has occurred, it performs the reset process described above and sets tin to a predetermined initial time.

[0057] As described above, the machine control device 5 generates (or acquires) the initial quantity information, the unit quantity information for decompression, and the cumulative time information as basic information through calculations.

[0058] When the remaining amount of yarn Y contained in the unwinding package at the reference time is denoted as WR, the machine control device 5 uses the basic information to calculate the remaining amount based on the following formula. Note that "1000" and "10000" in the formula are coefficients used to unify the units of the numerical values ​​on both sides to "kg".

[0059] WR = WF - (V × F / 10000) × tin / 1000

[0060] Furthermore, when R is the ratio of the remaining amount of yarn Y contained in the unraveling package to the initial amount (hereinafter referred to as the remaining amount ratio), the machine control device 5 can calculate the remaining amount ratio based on the following formula. The machine control device 5 may also calculate the remaining amount ratio as the percentage of WR to WF (remaining amount percentage).

[0061] R = WR / WF

[0062] Alternatively, aircraft control system 5 is Alternatively, the remaining percentage can be calculated using only basic information without utilizing WR (Write-Rate).

[0063] Furthermore, when tR is the remaining time during which yarn Y can be supplied from the unwinding package, the machine control device 5 may estimate tR based on, for example, the following formula. The unit of tR is "min".

[0064] tR = WF × 1000 / (V × F / 10000) - tin

[0065] (Configuration for processing during decrease) The configuration for processing during reduction will be explained with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the processing mode selection screen, etc., of the false twisting machine 1. For the sake of explanation, it will be assumed that a display is provided as the machine base output unit 5b, and a touch panel is provided as the machine base input unit 5a, positioned to overlap with the display (see Figure 4). However, the configuration of the machine base input unit 5a and the machine base output unit 5b is not limited to this.

[0066] The machine control unit 5 stores information on multiple options for processing when the volume decreases in the machine storage unit 5c. The machine control unit 5 is configured to display, for example, the options for processing when the volume decreases on the machine output unit 5b (see screen S1 in Figure 4). The machine control unit 5 is configured to allow the content of processing when the volume decreases to be pre-set in response to input from the operator to the machine input unit 5a. For example, the upper part of screen S1 displays "None" and "Form inner layer-containing winding package" as options. "None" means that no special processing will be performed even if the remaining volume of the package being unwound decreases. "Form inner layer-containing winding package" means that when the remaining volume of the package being unwound decreases, the inner layer-containing winding package described later will be formed. Also, for example, the lower part of screen S1 displays an input field for "Processing Conditions". "Processing Conditions" indicate what conditions must be met to start the execution of processing when the volume decreases. In the example shown in Figure 4, the machine control device 5 is configured to execute the reduction process when the remaining amount percentage (R) described above falls below 5%. The machine control device 5 has "forming an inner layer-containing winding package" pre-selected as the reduction process, and when predetermined processing conditions are met, it executes the inner layer-containing winding package formation process described later.

[0067] (If no processing is performed when the decrease occurs) For reference in order to understand the following explanation, the unwinding of yarn Y from each yarn supply package Ps and the formation of each winding package Pw when no reduction processing is performed (when "None" as described above is selected) will be explained with reference to Figures 5(a) to (c). Figures 5(a) to (c) are graphs showing the relationship between the amount of yarn and time in a conventional processing mode in which no reduction processing is performed. More specifically, Figure 5(a) is a graph showing the relationship between the remaining amount of yarn Y (vertical axis) and time (horizontal axis) contained in the yarn supply packages Ps (specifically yarn supply packages Ps1 and Ps3) attached to the first mounting unit 22. Figure 5(b) is a graph showing the relationship between the remaining amount of yarn Y (vertical axis) and time (horizontal axis) contained in the yarn supply packages Ps (specifically yarn supply package Ps2) attached to the second mounting unit 23. Figure 5(c) is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of yarn Y wound onto the winding bobbins Bw (specifically winding bobbins Bw1, Bw2, Bw3, Bw4, Bw5) (vertical axis) and time (horizontal axis). In all graphs of Figures 5(a) to (c), the origin is the time t0 when the yarn Y is first unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1. In this embodiment, the weight (initial weight) of each yarn supply package Ps when the yarn Y has not been unwound even once from each yarn supply package Ps (i.e., fully wound) is WF.

[0068] First, before time t0, a fully wound yarn supply package Ps1 is attached to the first attachment section 22. The initial weight of the yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps1 is WF. Also before time t0, a fully wound yarn supply package Ps2 is attached to the second attachment section 23. The end of the yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps1 and the beginning of the yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps2 are knotted together, forming a knot portion K. At time t0, threading onto each part of the predetermined weight 9 begins. Simultaneously, at time t0, the yarn Y begins to unwind from the fully wound yarn supply package Ps1. Then, at time ts1, immediately after time t0, threading onto the winding bobbin Bw1 attached to the winding device 19 is completed, and the yarn Y begins to be wound onto the winding bobbin Bw1 (i.e., the formation of the winding package Pw1 begins). Furthermore, from the time the yarn Y begins to unwind from the yarn supply package Ps1 until the yarn is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw1, the yarn Y is sucked and captured by the suction of the auto-doffer 10. In this embodiment, the unwinding speed of the yarn Y while yarn winding is taking place is approximately equal to the unwinding speed (V mentioned above) when the yarn Y is being wound onto the winding bobbin Bw.

[0069] As time passes, the remaining amount (remaining weight) of yarn Y in the yarn supply package Ps1 decreases, and the amount (winding weight) of yarn Y wound onto the winding bobbin Bw1 increases. In other words, as time passes, the amount of yarn Y contained in the winding package Pw1 increases. The machine control device 5 counts the time elapsed since the start of the formation of the winding package Pw1. The machine control device 5 uses this time information to calculate the amount of yarn Y contained in the winding package Pw1. When the machine control device 5 determines that the amount of yarn Y contained in the winding package Pw1 has reached a predetermined target winding amount, it terminates the formation of the winding package Pw1 (executes the formation termination process). More specifically, for example, at time te1, the machine control device 5 causes the cutter of the auto-doffer 10 to cut the yarn Y, thereby ending the winding process of yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw1. In other words, time te1 is the winding termination time when the yarn Y has finished being wound onto the winding bobbin Bw1 (the formation of the winding package Pw1 has ended). The winding bobbin Bw1 is wound only with yarn Y supplied from the yarn supply package Ps1. The cutting of yarn Y by the cutter and the suction capture of yarn Y by the suction mechanism (i.e., the start of the suction removal of yarn Y) occur almost simultaneously. Furthermore, the machine control device 5 controls the auto-doffer 10 to perform the replacement process. Specifically, the machine control device 5 controls the auto-doffer 10 to remove winding bobbin Bw1 (winding package Pw1) from the cradle 33, to mount winding bobbin Bw2 onto the cradle 33, and to thread the yarn onto winding bobbin Bw2. As a result, at time ts2 immediately following time te1, the mounting of winding bobbin Bw2 onto the cradle 33 by the auto-doffer 10 is completed, and the winding process of yarn Y onto winding bobbin Bw2 begins. There is a slight time lag tL (see Figure 5(c)) between the winding completion time (time te1) for the winding bobbin Bw1 and the winding start time (time ts2) for the winding bobbin Bw2, which takes the next thread Y from winding bobbin Bw1. As described above, even when winding bobbins Bw are being replaced, the thread Y is unwound from the thread supply package Ps at approximately the same speed as when it is being wound onto the winding bobbin Bw.Furthermore, at time te2, the winding process of yarn Y onto winding bobbin Bw2 (formation of winding package Pw2) is completed, and at time ts3, the winding process of yarn Y onto winding bobbin Bw3 is started.

[0070] At time ta1 (see Figure 5(a)), which is later than time ts3, the yarn supply package Ps1 attached to the first mounting unit 22 becomes empty. In other words, time ta1 is the unwinding completion time when the yarn Y has finished being unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1. Simultaneously with the yarn supply package Ps1 becoming empty, at time tb1 (=time ta1), the knot portion K formed by the knotting of the yarn Y contained in yarn supply package Ps1 and the yarn Y contained in yarn supply package Ps2 is pulled toward the winding device 19. As a result, the yarn Y begins to unwind from the yarn supply package Ps2 attached to the second mounting unit 23. In other words, time tb1 is the unwinding start time when the yarn Y is first unwound from yarn supply package Ps2 (when the unwinding of yarn Y begins). Subsequently, at time te3, the winding process of yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw3 (formation of winding package Pw3) is completed. The winding bobbin Bw3 has both the yarn Y unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1 and the yarn Y unwound from the yarn supply package Ps2 wound onto it. The winding package Pw3 also contains the knot portion K. Then, at time ts4, the winding process of yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw4 begins. At time te4, the winding process of yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw4 (formation of winding package Pw4) is completed. The winding bobbin Bw4 now has only the yarn Y unwound from the yarn supply package Ps2 wound onto it.

[0071] Furthermore, after time ta1 and before the yarn supply package Ps2 becomes empty (for example, at time ta2), the operator removes the empty yarn supply package Ps1 from the first mounting unit 22 and installs a new, fully wound yarn supply package Ps3 into the first mounting unit 22 (yarn supply package replacement operation). At this time, the remaining weight of the yarn supply package Ps3 is WF. Subsequently, at an appropriate timing, the operator connects the end of the yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps2 with the beginning of the yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps3, forming a knotted portion K (see Figure 3). The operator may perform the knotting operation (connection operation) by hand. Alternatively, the operator may perform the knotting operation by operating, for example, a portable knotting device (not shown).

[0072] Subsequently, from time ts5 to time te5, the yarn Y is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw5 (forming the winding package Pw5). At time tb2, between time ts5 and time te5, the yarn supply package Ps2 attached to the second mounting unit 23 becomes empty. Simultaneously with the emptying of the yarn supply package Ps2, at time ta3 (=time tb2), the yarn Y begins to unwind from the yarn supply package Ps3 attached to the first mounting unit 22.

[0073] If no processing is performed during the reduction phase, the yarn Y is unwound from each yarn supply package Ps as described above, and each winding package Pw is formed.

[0074] (Procedure for forming a rolled package containing an inner layer) Next, the procedure for forming an inner layer-containing winding package when "Formation of an inner layer-containing winding package" is selected as the mode for processing when the amount of yarn decreases will be explained with reference to Figures 6 to 8(c). Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure for replacing the winding bobbin Bw as the amount of yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps decreases. Figures 7(a) to 7(c) are graphs showing the relationship between the amount of yarn and time in the processing mode for forming an inner layer-containing winding package. Figure 7(a) is a graph showing the relationship between the remaining amount of yarn Y (vertical axis) and time (horizontal axis) contained in the yarn supply package Ps mounted on the first mounting unit 22, similar to Figure 5(a). Figure 7(b) is a graph showing the relationship between the remaining amount of yarn Y (vertical axis) and time (horizontal axis) contained in the yarn supply package Ps mounted on the second mounting unit 23, similar to Figure 5(b). Figure 7(c) is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of yarn Y wound onto the winding bobbin Bw (vertical axis) and time (horizontal axis), similar to Figure 5(c). Figures 8(a) and 8(b) are schematic diagrams showing a winding package Pw. Figure 8(c) is an explanatory diagram showing information regarding the rank of the winding package Pw. Figure 8(c) shows, for example, a screen S2 displaying information about the winding package Pw on the machine base output unit 5b.

[0075] Initially, as in the case described above where "no processing is performed during decrease," for example, the yarn supply package Ps1 is attached to the first mounting section 22 and the yarn supply package Ps2 is attached to the second mounting section 23. Furthermore, the yarn Y unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1 is processed by the processing section 3 and wound onto the winding bobbin Bw1. The yarn supply package Ps1 corresponds to the first yarn supply package of the present invention. The yarn supply package Ps2 corresponds to the second yarn supply package of the present invention.

[0076] The machine control device 5 calculates the remaining percentage of yarn Y in the yarn supply package Ps1 each time a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. For the sake of explanation, the numerical information of the remaining percentage will be referred to as remaining amount-related information. In other words, the machine control device 5 generates (acquires) remaining amount-related information by calculation each time a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. The machine control device 5 determines whether the remaining percentage is below a predetermined value (S101). The predetermined value is the value set when the processing conditions described above were set (see "5% or less" in Figure 4). The machine control device 5 causes the winding package Pw to form on the predetermined spindle 9 in the same way as when no reduction processing is performed, until the remaining percentage is below the predetermined value (S101: No). In this example, winding packages Pw1 and Pw2 are formed in the same order as when no reduction processing is performed. The machine control device 5 evaluates winding packages Pw1 and Pw2 as the highest rank winding package Pw (see "A1" in Figure 8(c)). The machine control unit 5 stores the individual information of each winding package Pw (see "ID" in Figure 8(c)) and its rank in association with each other.

[0077] When the machine control device 5 determines that the remaining amount percentage has fallen below a predetermined value (decreased remaining amount determination; S101: Yes), it controls the winding device 19 to perform the following inner layer avoidance marking operation on the winding package Pw that is being formed (S102). For example, when the remaining amount of yarn Y remaining in the yarn supply package Ps1 becomes W1 (see time t1 in Figure 7(a)), the remaining amount percentage reaches the predetermined value. Also, when the remaining amount percentage reaches the predetermined value, for example, the yarn Y is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw3, and the winding package Pw3s is formed (see Figure 7(c)). When the machine control device 5 determines that the remaining amount has decreased while the yarn Y is being unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1, it controls the motor 37 (see Figure 3) to drive the winding package Pw3s while controlling the motor 36 to stop the traverse guide 35 at a predetermined first position in the winding bobbin axial direction as an inner layer avoidance marking operation. This results in a so-called rod winding process on the winding package Pw3s, and a mark M1 (see Figure 8(a)) is formed on the winding package Pw3s. In other words, the winding package Pw3s is marked. The inner layer avoidance marking operation is included in the marking operation of the present invention.

[0078] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 controls the auto-doffer 10 to cut the yarn Y while it is running, and completes the formation of the winding package Pw3s (formation completion process). Subsequently, the machine control device 5 controls the auto-doffer 10 to exchange the winding package Pw3s for a new winding bobbin Bw4 in the winding device 19 (S103. Exchange process). Furthermore, the machine control device 5 controls the auto-doffer 10 to thread the yarn onto the new winding bobbin Bw4 (the new winding bobbin of the present invention). This prevents the yarn Y contained in the inner layer of the yarn supply package Ps1 from mixing with the winding package Pw3s. The winding package Pw3s is a smaller package compared to winding packages Pw1 and Pw2 (see Figure 7(c)). In other words, the winding package Pw3s being formed is completed with a smaller amount of yarn Y than the target winding amount described above. The winding package Pw3s corresponds to the forced-termination winding package of the present invention.

[0079] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 evaluates the winding package Pw3s as a lower-ranked winding package Pw compared to, for example, winding packages Pw1 and Pw2 (see, for example, "A2" in Figure 8(c)), and stores the individual information of winding package Pw3s in association with its rank. In addition, in S103, the machine control device 5 stores the individual information of winding package Pw3s in association with information indicating that a determination was made regarding the reduction in remaining material during the formation of winding package Pw3s (see, for example, "Avoidance of Inner Layer Contamination" in Figure 8(c)).

[0080] Next, the machine control device 5 controls the winding device 19 to start winding the yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw4 and begin forming the winding package Pw4r. While the winding package Pw4r is being formed, the machine control device 5 determines whether the above-mentioned yarn supply package switching has occurred based on the detection result from the yarn detection sensor 24 (S104). The machine control device 5 continues forming the winding package Pw4r until the yarn supply package switching occurs (S104: No). When the yarn supply package switching occurs, the yarn Y is completely unwound from the yarn supply package Ps1, the knot portion K is pulled, and the yarn Y begins to unwind from the yarn supply package Ps2 (see Figures 7(a) and (b)). When the machine control device 5 determines that the yarn supply package switching has occurred (switching determination; S104: Yes), it performs the following inner layer marking operation on the winding package Pw4r (S105). When the machine control device 5 makes a switching decision while winding yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw4, it controls motor 37 to drive the winding package Pw4r while controlling motor 36 to stop the traverse guide 35 at a predetermined second position in the winding bobbin axial direction as an inner layer-containing marking operation. As a result, a rod winding is performed on the winding package Pw4r, and a mark M2 (see Figure 8(b)) is formed on the winding package Pw4r. In other words, the winding package Pw4r is marked. The inner layer-containing marking operation is included in the marking operation of the present invention.

[0081] The machine base control device 5 should control the motor 36 so that the position of marker M1 in the winding bobbin axis direction and the position of marker M2 in the winding bobbin axis direction are different from each other. For example, marker M1 may be located midway between or near the center of the end face of the winding package Pw3s and the center of the winding package Pw3s in the winding bobbin axis direction. Marker M2 may be located approximately at the center of the winding package Pw4r in the winding bobbin axis direction. This makes it easy to distinguish between the winding package Pw3s and the winding package Pw4r by their appearance.

[0082] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 controls the cutter of the auto doffer 10 at a predetermined timing to cut the running yarn Y so that the knot portion K is included in the winding package Pw4r, thereby completing the formation of the winding package Pw4r (formation completion process). As a result, the yarn Y contained in the inner layer of the yarn supply package Ps1 and the knot portion K are wound onto the winding bobbin Bw4 to form the winding package Pw4r. Alternatively, the machine control device 5 may cause the running yarn Y to be cut by the cutter of the auto doffer 10 at a timing such that the knot portion K is removed by suction of the auto doffer 10 without being included in the winding package Pw4r.

[0083] Subsequently, the machine control device 5 controls the auto-doffer 10 to replace the winding package Pw4r with a new winding bobbin Bw5 (the new winding bobbin of the present invention) in the winding device 19 (S106. Replacement process). The winding package Pw4r is a smaller package than winding packages Pw1 and Pw2, similar to winding packages Pw3s (see Figure 7(c)). The winding package Pw4r is intentionally formed as a winding package Pw of inferior quality compared to the other winding packages Pw in order to remove the yarn Y contained in the inner layer of the yarn supply package Ps1. The winding package Pw4r may be discarded. Alternatively, the winding package Pw4r may be treated as a lower-ranked winding package Pw. The winding package Pw4r formed by winding yarn Y onto the winding bobbin Bw4 corresponds to the inner layer-containing winding package of the present invention. Furthermore, the machine control device 5 controls the auto doffer 10 to load the thread onto the new winding bobbin Bw5. The machine control device 5 also controls the winding device 19 to begin winding the thread Y onto the winding bobbin Bw5.

[0084] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 evaluates the winding package Pw4r as a winding package Pw of an even lower rank compared to, for example, winding packages Pw1, Pw2, and Pw3r (see, for example, "B" in Figure 8(c)). The machine control device 5 stores the individual information of winding package Pw4r in association with its rank. In addition, in S106, the machine control device 5 stores the individual information of winding package Pw4r in association with information indicating that a switching decision was made during the formation of winding package Pw4r (see, for example, "Contains inner layer" in Figure 8(c)).

[0085] Furthermore, the yarn Y is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw5, forming the winding package Pw5. The winding package Pw5 is formed as a higher-ranked winding package Pw, similar to winding packages Pw1 and Pw2 (see Figure 8(c)). Further processing will not be explained.

[0086] As described above, when the remaining amount of yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps1 falls below a predetermined value, that is, when the yarn Y in the inner layer begins to unwind from the yarn supply package Ps1, the formation of the winding package Pw3s is completed (formation completion process). This prevents inferior quality yarn Y from being included in the winding package Pw3s as a product. Therefore, it is possible to prevent inferior quality yarn Y from being mixed into the winding package Pw for the product.

[0087] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 stores individual information of the winding package Pw3s (formation-forced termination winding package) and information related to the determination of remaining quantity reduction in association. By using the information stored in the machine control device 5, the winding package Pw3s can be distinguished from other winding packages Pw.

[0088] Furthermore, when the switching decision is made, the winding package Pw4r is replaced with a new winding bobbin Bw5. This allows the yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps2 to be immediately wound onto the new winding bobbin Bw5 after the yarn supply package switch occurs. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the large amount of high-quality yarn Y contained in the yarn supply package Ps2 from being mixed into the winding package Pw4r.

[0089] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 stores individual information of the winding package Pw4r (winding package containing an inner layer) and information related to switching decisions in association with each other. By using the information stored in the machine control device 5, the winding package Pw4r can be distinguished from other winding packages Pw.

[0090] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 causes the winding device 19 to perform an inner layer marking operation. This makes it possible to distinguish between winding packages Pw and winding packages Pw4r that do not have the mark M2 by appearance.

[0091] Furthermore, the machine base control device 5 causes the winding device 19 to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation. This makes it possible to distinguish between winding packages Pw and winding packages Pw3s that do not have the mark M1 by their appearance.

[0092] Furthermore, the machine control device 5 causes the winding device 19 to perform inner layer avoidance marking and inner layer inclusion marking operations so that winding packages Pw3s and Pw4r can be distinguished. This makes it easy to distinguish winding packages Pw3s and Pw4r by appearance. Therefore, even if winding packages Pw3s and Pw4r are unintentionally mixed, they can be separated.

[0093] Furthermore, a marking operation, known as a rod winding, can be performed on the winding package Pw. Therefore, the marking operation can be performed by a simple means.

[0094] Next, modified examples of the above embodiments will be described. However, components having the same configuration as the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0095] (1) In the above embodiment, the machine control device 5 stores information for "none" and "form inner layer-containing winding package" as options for processing when the amount decreases. In addition, the machine control device 5 may be configured to allow the selection of a process to cut the yarn Y with the cutter 27 described above when predetermined conditions are met, as an option for processing when the amount decreases. Such an option may be displayed as "yarn cut" on the machine output unit 5b, for example. When "yarn cut" is selected as the processing mode, the machine control device 5 causes the cutter 27 to cut the yarn Y when it determines that the remaining amount has decreased, and also stops the operation of the weight 9 on which the yarn Y is running. This completes the formation of the winding package Pw (formation-end winding package) on the weight 9 (formation completion processing). In this case, the cutter 27 corresponds to the cutting part of the present invention. Even when "yarn cut" is selected as the processing mode, the machine control device 5 may also cause the winding device 19 to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation.

[0096] (2) In the embodiments described above, the machine control device 5 stores individual information of each winding package Pw and information relating to the decisions made for each winding package Pw (the remaining amount reduction decision or switching decision described above). However, it is not limited to this. The machine control device 5 does not need to store information relating to the decisions made for each winding package Pw.

[0097] (3) In the embodiments described above, the machine base control device 5 causes the winding device 19 to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation and an inner layer inclusion marking operation. However, it is not limited to this. Each spool 9 may be provided with a marking device (marking section), not shown, which is configured to apply color to the yarn Y just before it is wound onto the rotating winding bobbin Bw. The marking device may be configured to discharge or spray a liquid, such as ink, toward the yarn Y. The marking device may be configured to make the color of the ink applied to the yarn Y wound onto the inner layer inclusion different from the color of the ink applied to the yarn Y wound onto the inner layer inclusion, so that the formed forced-termination winding package and the inner layer inclusion winding package can be distinguished by appearance.

[0098] (4) In the embodiments described above, the machine control device 5 causes the winding device 19 or the marking device to perform both the inner layer avoidance marking operation and the inner layer inclusion marking operation. However, it is not limited to this. Only one of the inner layer avoidance marking operation or the inner layer inclusion marking operation may be performed. Alternatively, neither the inner layer avoidance marking operation nor the inner layer inclusion marking operation may be performed. Even in such cases, it is possible to avoid the inclusion of inferior quality yarn Y into the product-formed forced-termination winding package (e.g., winding package Pw3s).

[0099] (5) In the embodiments described above, the initial quantity information was assumed to be stored in the machine control device 5 as a common value for all the spindles 9 of the false twisting machine 1. However, it is not limited to this. For example, multiple spindles 9 may be divided into multiple groups. The machine control device 5 may be configured to allow setting initial quantity information for each of the multiple groups. Alternatively, the machine control device 5 may be configured to allow setting initial quantity information for each spindle 9. In this case, the machine control device 5 may further be configured to acquire initial quantity information (or information on the initial value of the remaining time) corresponding to each of the multiple yarn supply packages Ps. More specifically, each time a new yarn supply package Ps is attached to the yarn supply package holding unit 20, the machine control device 5 may be configured to acquire initial quantity information, etc., related to the new yarn supply package Ps individually.

[0100] (6) In the embodiments described above, the operator performed the task of replacing the yarn supply package Ps. However, this is not limited to this. The task of replacing the yarn supply package Ps may be performed, for example, by a creel robot (not shown). The yarn processing equipment 100 may also be equipped with a winding package conveying device (not shown) for collecting and conveying the formed winding package Pw.

[0101] (7) In the embodiments described above, the start and end of unwinding of yarn Y from the yarn supply package Ps are detected by a yarn detection sensor 24 having a first detection unit 25 and a second detection unit 26. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the yarn supply unit 2a of the false twisting machine 1a may have a detection unit 41 in each spindle 9a that has a different configuration from the yarn detection sensor 24. The detection unit 41 corresponds to the detection unit of the present invention, similar to the yarn detection sensor 24. The detection unit 41 may have, for example, a supply sensor 42 and a knot portion sensor 43. The supply sensor 42 is configured to detect whether or not yarn Y is being supplied from the first mounting unit 22 (start of unwinding). The knot portion sensor 43 is configured to detect a knot portion K that is positioned to remain stationary in a predetermined location. In this configuration, when the knot portion K moves from its predetermined position and is no longer detected by the knot portion sensor 43, it can be determined that a yarn supply package switch (end of unwinding) has occurred. Furthermore, it can be determined whether the yarn Y is supplied from the first mounting section 22 or the second mounting section 23 at the time of the yarn supply package switch based on the detection result from the supply sensor 42. Thus, even when using the detection result of the knot portion K, it is possible to reliably determine whether the yarn Y is supplied from the first mounting section 22 or the second mounting section 23. Note that the knot portion sensor 43 may be configured to detect a moving knot portion K.

[0102] (8) Each yarn package holding section 20 may be configured to hold three or more yarn packages Ps. In this case, the ends of the yarns Y contained in the three or more yarn packages Ps may be appropriately connected to each other.

[0103] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 10, the yarn feeding section 2b of the false twisting machine 1b may have a yarn package holder 50 capable of holding only one yarn package Ps in each spindle 9b, instead of a yarn package holder 20. In this case, the yarn package holder 50 has only one package mounting section 21. The yarn feeding section 2b may also have a supply sensor 42. In this configuration as well, the machine control device 5 may store information for "none", "inner layer-containing winding package formation", and "yarn cut" as options for processing when the amount decreases. If "inner layer-containing winding package formation" is selected as the processing mode, the machine control device 5 may execute formation completion processing and replacement processing when it determines that the remaining amount has decreased. In this case, when the yarn Y contained in the yarn package Ps held in the yarn package holder 50 is depleted, the operation of the spindle 9b having the yarn package holder 50 is stopped. If "thread cutting" is selected as the processing mode, the machine control device 5 may have the cutter 27 cut the thread when it determines that the remaining amount is decreasing. In this case, when the cutter 27 cuts the thread, the operation of the weight 9b having the cutter 27 stops.

[0104] (9) In the embodiments described above, the machine control device 5 acquires information on the unwinding speed V based on information on the rotational speed of the first feed roller 11, but it is not limited to this. As another example, the machine control device 5 may store information on the rotational speed of the second feed roller 16 and information on the ratio of the rotational speed of the first feed roller 11 to the rotational speed of the second feed roller 16. The machine control device 5 may acquire information on the unwinding speed based on this information. Alternatively, the machine control device 5 may acquire information on the weight of yarn Y unwound per unit time from the yarn supply package Ps as unwinding unit amount information, instead of information on the unwinding speed. Such information may be input into the machine control device 5 in advance by the operator, for example.

[0105] (10) In the embodiments described above, the machine control device 5 controls each part of the false twisting machine 1 and generates remaining amount-related information. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the management device 101 may control each part of the false twisting machine 1 and / or generate remaining amount-related information. In this case, the management device 101 is included in the control unit of the present invention.

[0106] (11) In the embodiments described above, the information management unit 110 has been provided with a plurality of machine control devices 5 and management devices 101, but it is not limited to this. That is, the information management unit 110 may include computer devices other than the machine control devices 5 and management devices 101 (not shown). Alternatively, the information management unit 110 may have only the machine control devices 5 or the management devices 101.

[0107] (12) In the embodiments described above, the yarn processing equipment 100 is provided with a plurality of false twisting machines 1, but it is not limited to this. The yarn processing equipment 100 may be provided with only one false twisting machine 1. Also, the control device 101 is not required. Also, the false twisting machine 1 is provided with a plurality of weights 9, but it is not limited to this. That is, the number of weights 9 in the false twisting machine 1 may be just one. In other words, the number of yarn supply package holding units 20 in the yarn supply unit 2 may be just one.

[0108] (13) The present invention may be applied to a different yarn processing machine instead of the false twisting machine 1. For example, the present invention may be applied to the air processing machine (yarn processing machine) described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-088605. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 1. False twisting machine (yarn processing machine) 5. Unit Control System (Control Unit) 10. Auto doffer (bobbin replacement section, cutting section) 19. Winding device (marking section) 20 Yarn supply package holding section 24. Thread detection sensor (detection unit) 27 Cutter (cutting part) 32. Traverse device (traverse section) 35 Traverse Guide 36. Motor (guide drive unit) 37. Motor (rotation drive unit) 41 Detection unit Bw winding bobbin Bw4 Winding Bobbin (New Winding Bobbin) Bw5 Winding Bobbin (New Winding Bobbin) Ps yarn supply package Ps1 Yarn feeding package (First yarn feeding package) PS2 yarn feeding package (second yarn feeding package) Pw reel package Pw3s reel package (formation-forced termination reel package) Pw4r winding package (winding package containing inner layer) Y thread

Claims

1. A yarn processing machine configured to process yarn unwound from a yarn supply package and wind it onto a winding bobbin, A yarn supply package holding section for holding the aforementioned yarn supply package, A winding device configured to wind thread onto the aforementioned winding bobbin to form a winding package, A cutting section configured to cut the thread before it is wound onto the aforementioned winding bobbin, The winding device is configured to allow the winding package that has been formed to be replaced with a new winding bobbin, and to allow thread to be threaded onto the new winding bobbin, The device comprises at least a control unit configured to perform a formation completion process that controls the cutting unit to cut the thread and controls the winding device to complete the formation of the winding package, and a replacement process that controls the bobbin replacement unit to replace the formed winding package with a new winding bobbin and to put the thread on the new winding bobbin, The control unit, When it is determined that the amount of yarn contained in the winding package being formed has reached a predetermined target winding amount, the formation completion process and the replacement process are performed. The remaining amount-related information, which is numerical information regarding the remaining amount of yarn in the yarn package being unwound and held in the yarn package holding section, is generated by calculation. A yarn processing machine characterized in that, when a determination is made to determine that the numerical value of the remaining amount-related information has fallen below a predetermined value, the winding device is made to form a winding package having a smaller amount of yarn than the target winding amount by performing the formation termination process.

2. The control unit, The yarn processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that it stores individual information of the formed forced termination winding package and information related to the determination of the remaining amount decrease in association with each other.

3. The yarn supply package holding unit is configured to hold a first yarn supply package and a second yarn supply package, which is separate from the first yarn supply package, and is configured to supply yarn without interruption when a yarn connection portion is formed by connecting the starting end of the yarn contained in the first yarn supply package and the ending end of the yarn contained in the second yarn supply package. The yarn supply package holding section includes a detection unit configured to detect information indicating the occurrence of a yarn supply package switch, where the unwinding of yarn from the first yarn supply package is completed, the yarn connection portion begins to move, and the unwinding of yarn from the second yarn supply package begins. The control unit, When the remaining amount reduction determination is made during the unwinding of yarn from the first yarn supply package, the formation of the forced formation termination winding package is terminated by performing the formation termination process, and after the forced formation termination winding package is formed, the replacement process is performed, and the yarn unwinded and processed from the first yarn supply package after the remaining amount reduction determination is wound onto the new winding bobbin attached to the winding device by the replacement process after the forced formation termination winding package is formed, thereby forming an inner layer-containing winding package in the winding device, which is the winding package having the yarn unwinded from the first yarn supply package after the remaining amount reduction determination. The yarn processing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, based on the detection result by the detection unit, when a switching determination is made in which it is determined that a yarn supply package switch has occurred during the formation of the inner layer-containing winding package, the formation of the inner layer-containing winding package is terminated by performing the formation termination process, the exchange process is performed after the inner layer-containing winding package is formed, and the yarn that has been unwound and processed from the second yarn supply package after the switching determination is wound onto the new winding bobbin attached to the winding device by the exchange process after the inner layer-containing winding package is formed.

4. The yarn supply package holding unit is configured to hold a first yarn supply package and a second yarn supply package, which is separate from the first yarn supply package, as the yarn supply package, and is configured to supply yarn without interruption when a yarn connection portion is formed by connecting the starting end of the yarn contained in the first yarn supply package and the ending end of the yarn contained in the second yarn supply package, The yarn supply package holding section includes a detection unit configured to detect information indicating the occurrence of a yarn supply package switch, where the unwinding of yarn from the first yarn supply package is completed, the yarn connection portion begins to move, and the unwinding of yarn from the second yarn supply package begins. The control unit, When the remaining amount reduction determination is made during the unwinding of yarn from the first yarn supply package, the formation of the forced formation termination winding package is terminated by performing the formation termination process, and after the forced formation termination winding package is formed, the replacement process is performed, and the yarn unwinded and processed from the first yarn supply package after the remaining amount reduction determination is wound onto the new winding bobbin attached to the winding device by the replacement process after the forced formation termination winding package is formed, thereby forming an inner layer-containing winding package in the winding device, which is the winding package having the yarn unwinded from the first yarn supply package after the remaining amount reduction determination. The yarn processing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, based on the detection result by the detection unit, when a switching determination is made in which it is determined that a yarn supply package switch has occurred during the formation of the inner layer-containing winding package, the formation of the inner layer-containing winding package is terminated by performing the formation termination process, the exchange process is performed after the inner layer-containing winding package is formed, and the yarn that has been unwound and processed from the second yarn supply package after the switching determination is wound onto the new winding bobbin attached to the winding device by the exchange process after the inner layer-containing winding package is formed.

5. The control unit, The yarn processing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that it stores individual information of the inner layer-containing winding package and information related to the switching determination in association with each other.

6. The control unit is The yarn processing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that it stores individual information of the inner layer-containing winding package and information related to the switching determination in association with each other.

7. The device includes a marking unit configured to perform a marking operation to affix a mark to the winding package being formed by the winding device, The control unit, The yarn processing machine according to any one of 3 to 6, characterized in that when the switching determination is made, the marking unit is controlled to perform an inner layer-containing marking operation, which involves attaching the mark to the inner layer-containing winding package, as the marking operation.

8. The device includes a marking unit configured to perform a marking operation to affix a mark to the winding package being formed by the winding device, The control unit, The yarn processing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that when the remaining amount reduction determination is made, the marking unit is controlled to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation, which involves attaching the mark to the winding package that is forcibly terminated in formation, as the marking operation.

9. The control unit, The yarn processing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that when the remaining amount reduction determination is made, the marking unit is controlled to perform an inner layer avoidance marking operation, which involves attaching the mark to the winding package that is forcibly terminated in formation, as the marking operation.

10. The marking portion is, The system is configured to enable the marking operation to be performed in a way that distinguishes between the formed forced-termination winding package and the inner layer-containing winding package. The control unit, The yarn processing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the marking portion is controlled to perform the inner layer avoidance marking operation and the inner layer inclusion marking operation so that the formed forced termination winding package and the inner layer containing winding package can be distinguished.

11. The marking section includes the winding device, The aforementioned winding device, A rotational drive unit configured to rotate the winding package around the central axis of the winding package, The traverse section includes a traverse guide for traversing the thread, and a guide drive unit configured to reciprocate the traverse guide along the axial direction of the winding package, The control unit, The thread processing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the winding device performs the marking operation by controlling the rotation drive unit to rotate the winding package and controlling the traverse unit to stop the traverse guide at a predetermined position in the axial direction.

12. The marking portion includes the winding device, The aforementioned winding device, A rotational drive unit configured to rotate the winding package around the central axis of the winding package, The traverse section includes a traverse guide for traversing the thread, and a guide drive unit configured to reciprocate the traverse guide along the axial direction of the winding package, The control unit, The thread processing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the winding device performs the marking operation by controlling the rotation drive unit to rotate the winding package and controlling the traverse unit to stop the traverse guide at a predetermined position in the axial direction.

13. The marking portion includes the winding device, The aforementioned winding device, A rotational drive unit configured to rotate the winding package around the central axis of the winding package, The traverse section includes a traverse guide for traversing the thread, and a guide drive unit configured to reciprocate the traverse guide along the axial direction of the winding package, The control unit, The thread processing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the winding device performs the marking operation by controlling the rotational drive unit to rotate the winding package and controlling the traverse unit to stop the traverse guide at a predetermined position in the axial direction.

14. The marking portion includes the winding device, The aforementioned winding device, A rotational drive unit configured to rotate the winding package around the central axis of the winding package, The traverse section includes a traverse guide for traversing the thread, and a guide drive unit configured to reciprocate the traverse guide along the axial direction of the winding package, The control unit, The thread processing machine according to claim 10, characterized in that the winding device performs the marking operation by controlling the rotation drive unit to rotate the winding package and controlling the traverse unit to stop the traverse guide at a predetermined position in the axial direction.

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