Computer-implemented method for producing a textile product

Abstract

The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for producing a textile product using a group (5) of textile machines (3). In order to obtain a textile product of good quality, the textile tools (2) which are used in the textile machines (3) are regularly replaced. In order to be able to ensure a regular replacement of textile tools (2) even for large groups of textile machines (3), when a first textile tool (102) is installed in a first textile machine (103) of the group of textile machines (3), a control unit (6) calculates a replacement time (17) for the first textile tool (102) and replaces the first textile tool (102) with a new textile tool (202) at the replacement time (17) on the basis of a signal (7) generated by the control unit (6).

Description

Groz-Beckert KG Parkweg 2 72458 Albstadt July 25, 2025 Computer-implemented method for manufacturing a textile product

[0001] The present invention relates to a computer-implemented method for manufacturing a specific textile product. Textile products can be manufactured using various processes. Such processes include, for example, knitting (e.g., flat knitting or circular knitting), sewing, needling to form a nonwoven, tufting, weaving, warp knitting, or carding. Textile products are typically manufactured on an industrial scale using such processes with textile machines that have at least one textile tool for the manufacturing process. These textile tools are usually subject to wear, which is mainly caused by friction between the textile tools and the textile product. Therefore, the textile tools must be replaced regularly when wear leads to failure. For example, sewing needles, knitting needles, or felting needles must be replaced when they break.In the event of such a breakage, the textile product is damaged until the breakage is detected and the textile machine with the defective tool is stopped. Due to its poor quality, the damaged textile product cannot be used further and is usually disposed of as scrap. To ensure that no fragments of broken textile tools remain in the textile product being used, textile manufacturers are typically required by their clients to collect and document all fragments to ensure that none are missing. The breakage of a textile tool therefore results in considerable additional work. Even before textile tools fail or break, worn textile tools can already lead to a deterioration in the quality of the textile product.Due to the aforementioned problems, it is known to replace worn textile tools before they fail, for example, due to breakage. For this purpose, it is known to monitor textile tools through regular visual inspections. However, wear on textile tools cannot be detected by simple visual inspections with the naked eye. Groz-Beckert KG 1631 -PCT It is crucial to detect failures in time. Furthermore, particularly in the production of complex textile products manufactured using a group of textile machines, it is currently not possible to monitor the textile tools of these machines closely enough through visual inspections. Consequently, especially with large groups of textile machines, individual textile tools, such as a broken sewing needle, fail repeatedly. As the size of the textile machine group increases, ensuring high product quality becomes even more challenging.

[0002] Based on the prior art, the object of the invention is therefore to provide a computer-implemented method for manufacturing a textile product with a group of textile machines, which ensures good quality of the textile product regardless of the size of the group of textile machines.

[0003] The problem is solved by a computer-implemented method with the features of claim 1. In the computer-implemented method according to the invention for manufacturing a specific textile product with a group of textile machines, which for the manufacturing process have at least one textile tool that is subject to wear during the manufacturing process, an identification code, by which the first textile machine can be identified, is sent to a control unit when a first textile tool is installed in a first textile machine of the group of textile machines. For this purpose, the identification code can be linked to the first textile machine in a database of the control unit or assigned to the first textile machine. The control unit can comprise several components that are interconnected or communicate with each other.For example, the control unit can consist of a central computer and a mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone, preferably communicating wirelessly. The control unit can also include a data storage unit containing information about the group of textile machines, the textile tools used, or the textile product. This information and / or its relationships can be stored in one or more databases within the data storage unit. The installation of the first textile tool can be performed manually by an operator or automatically by a mechatronic device. The control unit stores a replacement interval for the textile tools of the first textile machine. This replacement interval can be... Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT For example, the information might be stored in a database on the control unit's data storage. The replacement interval for the first textile tool is identifiable via the identification code assigned to the first textile machine. The replacement interval specifies after how long a textile tool installed in the first textile machine must be replaced. The control unit receives the transmitted identification code and uses the replacement interval to determine a replacement time for the first textile tool. The control unit then generates a signal indicating the replacement time of the first textile tool, which is assigned to the first textile machine. This assignment to the first textile machine can be made using the identification code that the control unit received when installing the textile tool.Based on the generated signal, the first textile tool is replaced with a new one suitable for its replacement. The new tool can be of the same type as the first, or it can have different specifications. Using a new tool with different specifications can be advantageous, for example, to optimize the manufacturing process during ongoing production. The tool replacement can be performed manually by an operator or automatically by a mechatronic device. The process steps described above can also be carried out with other textile tools used in the other textile machines in the group.Preferably, for each textile tool used in the group of textile machines, a signal can be generated during installation of the textile tool using the method described above. This signal indicates when the respective textile tool needs to be replaced, allowing it to be exchanged for a new one. In this way, even in very large groups of textile machines, a reliable and regular replacement of the textile tools can be controlled and monitored.

[0004] Further advantages arise when the signal is sent to a display unit, which then links the replacement time and the location of the first textile machine. This combined output of replacement time and location provides information on when and where a textile tool needs to be replaced. This helps the operator locate the textile tool requiring replacement. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The display unit can be used to communicate between machines, or to keep track of pending exchanges. The exchange time can be displayed as a fixed time. The display unit can be, for example, a signal light that illuminates upon receiving a signal and is located near the first textile machine to indicate its location. Alternatively, the display unit can be a sound-generating device (such as a loudspeaker or siren) that emits sounds upon receiving a signal. This sound-generating device can also be located near the first textile machine to indicate its location. The generated sounds can also be used to convey information about the machine's location. The display unit can also be electromechanical, electrical, or electronic. Preferably, the display unit is a screen.The display unit can be part of a mobile device. This mobile device can then help operators of a group of textile machines to keep track of the replacement times of the textile tools used in the machines and to adhere to these replacement times. Preferably, the display unit can also receive and output signals relating to the replacement time and location of additional textile tools.

[0005] A particularly advantageous method is one in which the production of a textile product requires a total set N of production steps – a so-called style – wherein the production steps are preferably assigned to different subsets of the total set N of production steps. In particular, the production of complex textile products requires a multitude of production steps, the entirety of which is also referred to as a style. In the method according to the invention, each production step or subset is assigned an individual exchange interval in the control unit. Each production step or subset is then assigned in the control unit to at least one textile machine from the group of textile machines. In this way, an individual exchange interval is assigned to each textile machine via the assigned production step or subset.The control unit can use the exchange interval assigned to the first textile machine for a production step or subset to determine the exchange time of the first textile tool. Similarly, the control unit can also determine the exchange time for other textile tools of other textile machines in the group. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The allocation of replacement intervals to production steps is advantageously carried out as a specification by the client to ensure the quality of the textile product. This allocation can be made by the client, for example, via wireless access to the control unit, a data storage device within the control unit, or a database stored on the data storage device. In this way, the client can specify replacement interval requirements that are preferably beyond the contractor's control. The contractor then only receives the signal that links the calculated replacement time to the relevant textile machine but cannot influence the replacement interval itself or its calculation. This provides the client with a high degree of certainty that the specified replacement intervals will be adhered to.

[0006] Advantageously, the changeover time is determined by a timer that starts when the first textile tool is inserted. The changeover time can be displayed as a countdown timer, with the changeover time being reached after the timer or countdown has expired. The timer can be paused manually or automatically as needed and resumed at a later time. This prevents the timer from running during breaks, production facility shutdowns, or when the textile machine is idle. This ensures that the maximum operating time of the textile tool is utilized.

[0007] Advantageously, the replacement time is determined based on the date and time of insertion of the first textile tool. The control unit can determine the date and time of insertion upon receiving the identification code. Since the control unit already knows the date and time, this method eliminates the need to collect additional data to determine the replacement time. This method is therefore the simplest way to determine the replacement time. In this method, the replacement interval is preferably a time interval added to the date and time of insertion of the first textile tool to determine the replacement time.

[0008] Further advantages arise if the operating time of the first textile machine is recorded with a sensor and the replacement time is determined depending on the operating time of the textile machine from the time the first textile tool is inserted. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT In this way, only the actual operating times of the textile tool are considered when calculating the replacement time. The replacement time can be dynamically recalculated depending on the operating time of the first textile machine, so that the replacement time is postponed if the textile machine is idle. This prevents an overly early replacement time being calculated for the first textile tool if the machine has been idle for a long time, thus preventing the tool from being replaced even though it has not yet reached its maximum operating time. Large groups of textile machines with varying operating times can also be monitored very effectively in this way. Therefore, even complex textile products can be manufactured to a very high quality through regular replacement of the textile tools used, without having to replace the tools too frequently.The operating time can advantageously be added to the date and time of the first textile tool's insertion to determine the replacement time. To record the operating time, the sensor can, for example, measure the current and / or power consumption of the textile machine. Alternatively, the sensor can also measure the position of a switch mounted on the textile machine. Since the forces acting on the textile tool constantly change during the operation of textile machines, the sensor can also measure the corresponding force or the associated change in force. The operating time can then be calculated by the control unit by evaluating the measurement data, whereby periods without force change or with a very small force change (indicated as noise in the measured value) are considered as the textile machine being idle.A device comprising a sensor for recording the operating time of a textile machine, adapted to perform the steps of this process, is advantageously advantageous. Equally advantageous is a computer program product comprising commands that cause this device to perform the process steps.

[0009] In an advantageous embodiment of the computer-implemented method, the first textile machine moves the first textile tool in strokes to produce the specific textile product, as is common, for example, in knitting machines, sewing machines, or finishing machines. The number of strokes of the first textile machine is detected by a sensor, and the replacement time is determined as a function of the number of strokes since the insertion of the first textile tool. Since the wear of textile tools that are moved in strokes depends on the number of strokes, the replacement time is determined based on the number of strokes. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT Since the number of strokes performed by the textile tool depends on the tool's performance, the replacement time can be determined very accurately based on the actual wear of the respective textile tool. This allows for even better prevention of textile tool failure during operation. The number of strokes can also be determined, for example, by measuring the force acting on the textile tool in the direction of the stroke and subsequently evaluating the measurement result. Alternatively, the number of strokes can be determined by the control unit through communication and / or data exchange with the textile machine.

[0010] Advantageously, the identification code for the first textile machine is captured optically, preferably with a camera or scanner, or with a transmitter-receiver system, preferably an RFID system or a GPS system. RFID stands for "radio-frequency identification." The scanner can be, for example, a barcode scanner or a QR code scanner. The identification code can also be captured by the control unit itself. In this case, the control unit includes a device for capturing the identification code, such as a camera, a scanner, or a receiver of a transmitter-receiver system.

[0011] Further advantages arise when the identification code is stored as a machine-readable code at a production facility where the group of textile machines is located. The identification code can be located, for example, on the textile machine to which it belongs or in the vicinity of the textile machine. It can also be located on a device associated with the textile machine, such as a device used for changing textile tools. The machine-readable code can be one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional, or four-dimensional. A one-dimensional code is, for example, a barcode. A two-dimensional code is, for example, a QR code. A three-dimensional code can, for example, be a QR code that also conveys information about color saturation or hue. The third dimension is then the hue or saturation.A four-dimensional code can, for example, be an animated three-dimensional code. The fourth dimension is then time. In this way, even very complex identification codes can be represented and captured, which makes the method applicable even to very large groups of textile machines. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT

[0012] Further advantages arise when a dispensing station dispenses the new textile tool suitable for replacing the first textile tool, depending on the replacement time of the first textile tool. The dispensing station can be controlled by the control unit and / or receive the replacement time, for example, via a signal from the control unit. The dispensing station stocks at least one textile tool suitable for replacing the first textile tool. Advantageously, the dispensing station stocks at least two or more different types of textile tools used in the textile machines of the group of textile machines, so that the dispensing station stocks the appropriate textile tool for at least two or more of the textile machines. The dispensing of the new textile tool can advantageously take place within a dispensing period that begins before the replacement time and / or ends after the replacement time.The dispensing period is preferably 10 to 120 minutes, but particularly preferably 15 to 45 minutes. This ensures that only textile tools requiring immediate replacement are dispensed. Even with large groups of textile machines, this prevents the use of incorrect textile tools and the resulting defects in the textile product. The dispensing station can have a cavity in which the new textile tool is stored. Advantageously, the cavity is closed by a closing device, such as a flap or door, which opens the cavity at the time of replacement. Alternatively, the new textile tool can be automatically conveyed from the cavity into a dispensing device, such as an open groove or container, at the time of replacement.The dispensing device is designed such that the new textile tool can be removed from it manually or by a mechanical device. The new textile tool can be held in a textile tool magazine from which it can be automatically conveyed into the dispensing device. Within the textile tool magazine, the new textile tool can be pre-tensioned against a closing device by pneumatic force, hydraulic force, spring force, and / or its own weight, such that the new textile tool is ejected from the textile tool magazine by these forces when the magazine is opened by moving the closing device. The automatic dispensing of the new textile tool is essentially achieved by controlling the closing device depending on the... Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT Exchange time. The closing device can be driven for movement. For example, the closing device can be driven by an electric motor, pneumatic and / or hydraulic drive and / or a push rod drive. Advantageously, the textile tool is thus conveyed directly into the removal device. However, it is particularly advantageous if the textile tool magazine is reclosed by moving the closing device, and the closing device thereby conveys the new textile tool into the removal device. As an alternative to a textile tool magazine with a preload of the textile tool against a closing device, the textile tool magazine can also be designed as a revolver magazine or drum magazine. The revolver magazine or drum magazine comprises a rotatable magazine body with a multitude of cavities, each of which can hold at least one textile tool.The rotating magazine body is advantageously enclosed by a housing that prevents the textile tools from unintentionally falling out of the cavities by sealing them. In this configuration, the housing thus acts as the closing device. Above the removal device, the housing has an opening through which the new textile tool is conveyed out of its cavity, or falls out when the rotating magazine body is turned around its axis of rotation to a position where the opening exposes the cavity of the new textile tool. The rotation can advantageously be controlled depending on the exchange time. The rotating magazine body can be driven into rotation by an electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, and / or mechanical drive.It is particularly preferred if the rotating magazine body is driven to its rotational movement by an electric stepper motor.

[0013] Advantageously, the first textile machine stops automatically, depending on the replacement time of the first textile tool, if the first textile tool is not replaced within a predetermined replacement period. The replacement period is a period that begins before and / or ends after the replacement time. The replacement period preferably includes the replacement time itself. The replacement period is determined by the control unit depending on the replacement time. The duration of the replacement period is advantageously 15 to 90 minutes, but particularly preferably 20 to 45 minutes. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The replacement period preferably falls entirely within the output period of the output station described above, if such an output station is used. Automatically stopping the first textile machine when the replacement period is exceeded ensures that the first textile tool cannot be used further for manufacturing the textile product once it is worn out. This prevents, for example, breakage of the textile tool and ensures the high quality of the textile product.

[0014] Further advantages arise when the first textile tool is automatically replaced by the new one by an exchange device, depending on the exchange time. Preferably, the first textile tool is exchanged during the exchange period described above. The exchange device advantageously includes a gripping device for grasping textile tools. The gripping device can, for example, be a pair of pliers suitable for gripping the shank of a textile tool. To enable complex movements in space, the gripping device can be arranged on a rotatable and / or swiveling robot arm. By moving the robot arm, the exchange device can also perform exchange operations alternately on several very different textile machines without having to make any modifications to the gripping device or the exchange device.The exchange device advantageously includes a communication device through which it can communicate with the textile machines of the group of textile machines and / or the control unit. To exchange a textile tool, the exchange device can advantageously request, for example, that the relevant textile machine be stopped via the communication device. Advantageously, the exchange device can also receive information about the operating status of the textile machines via the communication device. The exchange device advantageously includes a drive device suitable for moving the exchange device between the locations of different textile machines of a group of textile machines. For this purpose, the drive device can, for example, include at least one driven wheel and / or a track drive. A track drive is also known to those skilled in the art as a chain drive.The drive device preferably includes a steering device that enables a change of direction of the exchange device. For example, a steering device can enable the rotation of at least one wheel about a substantially vertical axis. In the case of a tracked drive, the steering device can also... Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The exchange device controls the opposing movement of adjacent caterpillar drives. It preferably includes a navigation module that allows it to determine its own location and navigate or move independently between the locations of different textile machines within a group of textile machines. The navigation module can preferably send control commands to the drive device. The exchange device can preferably communicate with the dispensing station via the communication device to retrieve the new textile tool from the dispensing station. Similarly advantageous is an exchange device comprising a gripping device for gripping textile tools, which is adapted to perform the steps of the aforementioned procedure.Equally advantageous is a computer program product comprising commands that cause the exchange device to execute the described process steps.

[0015] Advantageously, in the method according to the invention, a signaling device can be used to request a replacement of the first textile tool before the replacement time is reached. The signaling device can comprise a switch or button that is actuated by the operator at the textile machine with the first textile tool to request the replacement. Alternatively, the signaling device can be a mobile device, for example, a smartphone or tablet. An app can be installed on the mobile device, which can be used to request the replacement from the control unit. The mobile device can communicate with the control unit for this purpose. In particular, the mobile device can send information about the requested replacement to the control unit. The control unit can receive information about the requested replacement from the signaling device.Preferably, after a replacement request is received, the control unit calculates a new replacement date and / or replacement period for the first textile tool. Requesting a replacement of the first textile tool can be advantageous, for example, if the first textile tool breaks or wears out prematurely due to a defect and therefore needs to be replaced before the originally calculated replacement date. In this case, the use of the notification device ensures a rapid replacement of the textile tool and thus the most error-free production possible of the textile product.

[0016] Further advantages arise when the condition of the first textile tool is recorded during operation and / or after its replacement, and information about the condition – i.e., Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT Condition information of the first textile tool is sent to the control unit. The condition of the first textile tool can be captured, for example, as a photo or video. This photo or video can preferably be analyzed automatically to derive further condition information. This analysis can be AI-based. Additionally, condition information such as the weight or dimensions of the first textile tool can be captured, for example, by weighing or measuring. This condition information can then be further processed in the control unit.

[0017] Advantageously, the control unit stores the replacement time along with the status information for the first textile tool and preferably assigns this information to the production step and / or style associated with the first textile machine. This allows the status information for the replaced textile tools to be documented. When replacing a tool, the control unit can additionally store the previously calculated and / or the actual replacement time of the first textile tool, linked to the status information. Preferably, the stored status information can be linked to the production order for the manufactured textile product. This enables automated quality monitoring and documentation for the production order.

[0018] Further advantages arise when the replacement interval is optimized based on condition information. Preferably, the replacement interval is continuously adjusted through automatic, preferably AI-based, evaluation of the condition information. For example, if the condition information indicates excessive wear of the textile tool, the replacement interval is shortened. Conversely, if the condition information indicates insufficient wear, the replacement interval is increased. This ensures optimal utilization of the service life of the textile tools. Furthermore, it prevents breakage of the textile tools and defects in the textile product caused by excessive wear.

[0019] Advantageously, the control unit determines a changeover time for each of the various textile tools on different textile machines. The signal generated by the control unit then preferably relates to the changeover times of the various textile tools and a prioritization of the different textile tools depending on these changeover times. The textile tools are then selected according to this prioritization. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT Textile tools are replaced sequentially. Prioritization can be done using priority categories, with multiple textile tools potentially grouped within a single priority category. For example, all textile tools whose replacement deadline has already passed can be grouped in a first priority category with the highest priority, while textile tools whose replacement deadline has not yet passed are grouped in a second priority category with a lower priority. The prioritization, or priority category, can dictate the order in which the textile tools are to be replaced. Preferably, however, textile tools within the same priority category do not have a predetermined order among themselves. Textile tools can also be assigned to priority categories based on their replacement deadline and the location of the associated textile machine.For example, it may be advantageous to group textile tools in the same priority category if the location of the textile machines assigned to them is close together, in order to achieve the shortest possible distances between the textile tools to be exchanged.

[0020] Further advantages arise when a breakage sensor detects whether the first textile tool has broken during operation of the first textile machine. The breakage sensor can be, for example, an ultrasonic sensor, an acoustic sensor, an infrared sensor, a force sensor, or an optical sensor such as a camera. An ultrasonic or infrared sensor is particularly advantageous because these sensors can reliably and quickly detect a breakage of the textile tool, even during operation, especially on high-speed textile machines. Advantageously, after detecting a breakage of the first textile tool, the sensor transmits information about the breakage to the control unit, which then generates a signal to replace the first textile tool.This ensures that even with large groups of textile machines, the first textile tool is automatically replaced as soon as it breaks. This prevents lengthy downtimes for the first machine. Advantageously, the first machine stops automatically as soon as the sensor detects a breakage. This automatically halts the production of textiles with quality defects.

[0021] The object of the invention is also solved by a data processing system comprising means for carrying out the method according to the invention. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT

[0022] The object of the invention is further achieved by a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to execute the method according to the invention. Further advantages result from a computer-readable medium on which the computer program product is stored. Fig. 1 Figure 1 schematically shows a computer-implemented method 1 with five process steps 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, wherein a first textile tool 102 is exchanged due to a signal 7 generated by a control unit 6. Fig. 2 Figure 2 shows a first alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15 using a display device 16. Fig. 3 Figure 3 a second alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15 using an exchange device 8. Fig. 4 Figure 4 shows a third alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15 using an output station 20. Fig. 5 Figure 5 a fourth alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15 using an exchange device 8 and an output station 20. Fig. 6 Figure 6 showed a schematic diagram of a dispensing station 20 with a textile tool magazine 24 Fig. 7 Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of the textile tool magazine 24 from Fig. 6. Fig. 8 Figure 8 shows the opening of the textile tool magazine 24 from Figs. 6 and 7 by moving the slider 25 to dispense a new textile tool 2. Fig. 9 Figure 9 shows the closing of the textile tool magazine 24 from Fig. 6-8 by moving the slider 25. Fig. 10 Figure 10 shows a rotatable magazine body 31 with a textile tool 2. Fig. 11 Figure 11 shows a textile tool magazine designed as a revolver magazine 32. 24 with the rotatable magazine body 31 from Fig. 10. Fig. 12 Figure 12 shows the output of a textile tool 2 with the textile tool magazine 24 from Fig. 11.

[0023] Individual depicted elements, such as the textile machines 103, 203, 303 or the textile tools 102, 202, appear multiple times in the figures. Where it is necessary to distinguish between these multiple occurrences, the elements are numbered, and this numbering corresponds to the reference numeral in the figures. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The respective element is prefixed. For example, the various textile machines 103, 203, 303 are numbered as the first textile machine 103, the second textile machine 203 and the third textile machine 303.

[0024] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the computer-implemented method 1 according to the invention for manufacturing a textile product with a group 5 of textile machines 3 and textile tools 2. The group 5 of textile machines 3 includes, by way of example, a first textile machine 103, a second textile machine 203, and a third textile machine 303. However, a group 5 of textile machines 3 can also include two or more than three textile machines 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the computer-implemented method 1 is shown by way of example as a method for manufacturing a textile product by sewing. The textile machines 3 are therefore represented as sewing machines and the textile tools 2 as sewing machine needles, with the sewing machine needles being shown greatly enlarged compared to the sewing machine to ensure clear visibility of the sewing machine needles.The computer-implemented method 1 shown is, of course, also applicable to other textile manufacturing processes, for example, circular knitting, where the textile machine would be a circular knitting machine and the textile tool would be, for example, a knitting needle or a die. Textile tools 2 are subject to wear during the production of textile products and must therefore be replaced regularly. The method shown in Figure 1 thus serves to regularly replace the textile tools 2 used in the textile machines 3 and to monitor this regular replacement. For a better understanding of the method, the technical means required for each process step 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 in Figure 1 are assigned to the respective process steps 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. The assignment is shown by frames with dashed lines.The interactions between the various technical means are symbolized by arrows in Figure 1 and are described below in connection with process steps 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, which are carried out using the respective technical means. In a first process step 11, a first textile tool 102 is installed in a first textile machine 103, and an identification code 4, by which the textile machine 103 can be identified, is sent to a control unit 6. The control unit 6 is represented as a computer. The identification code 4 is shown as an example of a machine-readable QR code. As indicated by the double arrow with a dashed line between the first textile machine 103 and the identification code 4, the identification code 4 is that of the first textile machine. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The first textile machine 103 is assigned to the first textile machine 103, so that the first textile machine 103 can be identified via the identification code 4. This assignment is stored in the control unit 6, so that the control unit 6 can identify the first textile machine 103 using the identification code. Sending the identification code 4 to the control unit 6 thus informs the control unit 6 about the installation of the first textile tool 102 in the first textile machine 103. In a second process step 12, the control unit 6 receives the identification code 4 and, using the identification code 4, selects the exchange interval appropriate to the first textile machine 103 or its first textile tool 102 from a group of exchange intervals that is stored in the control unit 6.In a third process step 13, the control unit 6 then determines a replacement time 17 for the first textile tool 102 based on the selected replacement interval. The replacement interval can, for example, be a fixed period after which the first textile tool 102 must be replaced. The control unit 6 can then determine the replacement time 17 by adding the replacement interval to the time of installation of the first textile tool 102. The time of installation of the first textile tool 102 essentially corresponds to the time of receipt of the identification code 4 by the control unit 6 and is therefore known to the control unit 6. In a fourth process step 14, the control unit 6 generates a signal 7 relating to the previously determined replacement time 17 of the first textile tool 102 and assigned to the first textile machine 103 in which the first textile tool 102 is installed.The assignment to the first textile machine 103 is again represented by a double arrow with a dashed line between signal 7 and the first textile machine 103. Based on signal 7, the first textile tool 102 is exchanged in a fifth process step 15 for a new textile tool 202, which is suitable for replacing the previously used first textile tool 102. The exchange of the first textile tool 102 is symbolically represented in Figure 1 by two opposing arrows between the first textile tool 102 and the new textile tool 202.

[0025] Figure 2 shows a first alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15. The first to fourth process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 correspond to the respective process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 from Figure 1 and the associated description above. Therefore, the illustration of the first to fourth process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 has been omitted in Figure 2. In comparison to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the fifth process step 15 is carried out according to the embodiment shown in Figure 2. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT In this embodiment, the signal 7 is sent to a display unit 16, which displays the transmitted exchange time 17 for the first textile tool 102 and the installation location 18 of the first textile machine 103 on a screen 19. The installation location is the location of the first textile machine 103 in a production facility where the group 5 of textile machines 3 is located. An operator thus receives information via the display unit 16 as to where within the production facility the first textile tool 102 needs to be exchanged. The first textile tool 102 is then exchanged for a new textile tool 202 based on the output of the display unit 16.

[0026] Figure 3 shows a second alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15. The first to fourth process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 correspond to the respective process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 from Figure 1 and the associated description above. Therefore, the first to fourth process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 have been omitted from Figure 3. In contrast to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the signal 7 is sent, as shown in Figure 3, to an exchange device 8, which automatically replaces the first textile tool 102 with a new textile tool 202 at the exchange time 17 transmitted by the signal 7. The exchange device 8 is shown schematically in Figure 3 and not to scale. The exchange device 8 comprises a gripping device 9 for gripping the textile tools 2.The gripping device 9 can, for example, be a pair of pliers designed to grip the shank of the textile tools 2. To exchange the textile tools 2, the exchange device 8, using the gripping device 9, first grips the first textile tool 102 and removes it from the first textile machine 103. The exchange device 8 then uses the gripping device 9 to grip the new textile tool 202 and insert it into the first textile machine 103. The gripping device 9 is mounted on a rotatable and swiveling robot arm 23 of the exchange device 8, enabling the gripping device 9 to perform complex movements in space. This allows the exchange device 8 to perform exchange operations alternately on several very different textile machines 3.To enable automated movement between the textile machines 3 of a group 5 of textile machines 3, the exchange device 8 comprises a drive element 10, which is shown by way of example as a caterpillar drive in Figure 2. However, the exchange device 8 can also move between the machines using any other suitable drive element 10, such as a driven wheel. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT The exchange device 8 can move textile machines 3 of a group 5 automatically. Using the drive means 10, the exchange device 8 can automatically navigate to the first textile machine 103, to which signal 7 is assigned, in order to exchange the first textile tool 102. The exchange device 8 could also navigate to one of the other textile machines 3 in the group 5 to exchange a textile tool 2 from another textile machine 3. The exchange device 8 can therefore also receive signals 7 relating to textile tools 2 of other textile machines 3 and automatically navigate to the relevant textile machine 3. In this way, an exchange device 8 can automatically perform the regular exchange of the textile tools 2 of an entire group 5 of textile machines 3.

[0027] Figure 4 shows a third alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15. The first to fourth process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 correspond to the respective process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 from Figure 1 and the associated description above. Therefore, the first to fourth process steps 11, 12, 13, 14 have been omitted from Figure 4. In contrast to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, in the fifth process step 15, the signal 7 is sent to an output station 20 according to the third alternative embodiment. The output station 20 automatically outputs the new textile tool 202 at the exchange time 17 transmitted by the signal 7. The output station 20 comprises five cavities 21, each of which can be closed by a closing device 22. In Figure 4, four of the five cavities are shown closed and are accordingly covered by their associated closing device 22. For clarity, the figures in Figure 4 are not shown.Figure 4 shows only one of the closed locking devices 22 and the open locking device 22 with reference numerals. The dispensing station 20 can store various textile tools 2 in its cavities 21. By opening the locking device 22 of a cavity 21 with a new textile tool 202 suitable for replacing the first textile tool 102, the dispensing station 20 can dispense the new textile tool 202. It can then be removed manually or by a gripping device 9 (not shown in Figure 4) from the opened cavity 21. The first textile tool 102 is then replaced by the dispensed new textile tool 202. With the aid of the dispensing station 20, the dispensing of a suitable new textile tool 202 can thus be controlled in order to avoid the installation of unsuitable textile tools 202 in the textile machines 3 of the group of textile machines 3. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT

[0028] Figure 5 shows a fourth alternative embodiment of the fifth process step 15, which is very similar to the third embodiment shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment as well, the signal 7, which relates to the exchange time 17 for the first textile tool 102 and the installation location 18, is received by a dispensing station 20. The dispensing station 20 then dispenses a new textile tool 202 in the same way as already described with reference to Figure 4. Subsequently, however, the new textile tool 202 is picked up by an exchange device 8 to replace the first textile tool 102 with the new textile tool 202. For this purpose, the exchange device 8 has a gripping device 9 with which it can engage in the cavity 21 of the dispensing station 20 and remove the new textile tool 202.Both the exchange device 8 and the output station 20 have a drive device 10 that allows them to move between the various textile machines 3 of the group of textile machines 3. Since the exchange device 8 and the output station 20 interact with each other during the process, it is advantageous if they move in a coordinated manner between the textile machines 3. The exchange device 8 and the output station 20 can also be connected together by a drive device 10 and thus move as a unit between the textile machines 3.

[0029] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a dispensing station 20 with a textile tool magazine 24 and a dispensing device 25. In this embodiment, the dispensing device 25 is designed as a container suitable for holding a textile tool 2 (not shown in Figure 6). The textile tool magazine 24 comprises a magazine housing 26, which is connected to the frame 29 of the dispensing station 20 via two brackets 30. A closing device 22 of the textile tool magazine 26 closes the magazine housing 26 at the bottom. The structure and function of the textile tool magazine 24 are described in more detail with reference to Figures 7 to 9 below.

[0030] Figures 7 to 9 show enlarged views of the textile tool magazine 24, which comprises a magazine housing 26 and a closing device 22 for opening and closing the magazine housing 26. To better illustrate the function of the textile tool magazine 24, the walls of the magazine housing 26 are shown transparently, so that only the edges of the magazine housing 26 are visible in Figures 7 to 9. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT are recognizable. Furthermore, the depiction of the holders 30 has been omitted. In Figure 7, the magazine housing 26 is closed by the locking device 22. Several textile tools 2 lie stacked on top of each other in the cavity 21, which is enclosed by the magazine housing 26, resting on the locking device 22. Figure 8 shows how the locking device 22 performs an opening movement 27 and thereby opens the cavity 21 of the magazine housing 26. Due to the force of gravity, the stacked textile tools 2 slide downwards, so that the lowest of the Textile tools 2 fall out of the cavity 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the lowest textile tool 2 then rests on the frame 29, on which the closing device 22 also slides. Instead of or in addition to gravity, a pneumatic force (e.g., by a pneumatic cylinder or an air cushion), a hydraulic force (e.g., by a hydraulic cylinder), or a spring force (e.g., by a coil spring or a leaf spring) could also be exerted on the textile tools 2 to release one of the The textile tools 2 are conveyed out of the cavity 21. Figure 9 shows the subsequent closing process. The closing device 22 performs a closing movement 28 to close the cavity 21 again. The lowest textile tool 2, which rests on the frame 29, is pushed by the closing device 22 towards the removal device 25, so that the textile tool 2 falls into the removal device 25 (indicated in Figure 9 by a curved arrow extending from the textile tool 2 towards the removal device 25). The opening movement 27 and the closing movement 28 of the closing device 22 can be controlled depending on a specific exchange time 17 for a textile tool 2, in order to ensure that a new textile tool 2 is dispensed in time for the exchange time 17. Figures 10 to 12 serve as a schematic representation of a textile tool magazine 24 designed as a revolver magazine 32. Figure 10 shows the rotatable magazine body 31 of the revolver magazine 32. The rotatable magazine body 31 has four cavities 21 suitable for holding textile tools 2. In Figure 10, only one of the cavities 21 is filled with a textile tool 2 as an example, in order to subsequently explain the function of the revolver magazine 32 using this single textile tool 2. Figure 11 shows the revolver magazine 32, which comprises the rotatable magazine body 31 from Figure 10 and a cylindrical shell 33, in a frontal view of the end face 34 of the rotatable magazine body 31. The rotatable magazine body 31 is rotatable relative to the stationary shell 33 about the axis of rotation 35. On its underside, the shell 33 has a Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT Opening 36 opens, through which the cylindrical shell 33 opens and closes the cavities 21 of the rotatable magazine body 31 depending on the rotational position of the rotatable magazine body 31. In the schematic drawing in Figure 11, only one cavity 21 is shown as an example, filled with a textile tool 2. The rotatable magazine body 31 is rotated into a position in which the shell 33 closes the cavity 21 filled with the textile tool 2. The textile tool 2 is thus securely held in the cavity 21 and cannot fall out or be removed. A removal device 25 for collecting textile tools 2 is arranged below the opening 36. The removal device 25 is schematically represented as a container. Figure 12 shows how the rotatable magazine body 31 is rotated by a rotary movement 37 about the axis of rotation 35 into a position in which the opening 36 closes the cavity 21 containing the textile tool 2. The filled cavity 21 of the textile tool 2 opens, so that the textile tool 2 falls out of the cavity 21 through the opening 36 into the dispensing device 25 (indicated in Fig. 12 by a curved arrow extending from the textile tool 2 towards the dispensing device 25). By controlling the rotary movement 37 of the rotatable magazine body 31, a textile tool 2 can be dispensed from a dispensing station 20, which has the revolver magazine 32, depending on the exchange time 17. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT Groz-Beckert KG 1631 -PCT Groz-Beckert KG 1631 -PCT

Claims

Groz-Beckert KG Parkweg 2 72458 Albstadt 25.07.2025 Patent claims 1. Computer-implemented method (1) for manufacturing a specific textile product with a group of textile machines (3) which have at least one textile tool (2) that wears during the manufacturing process, characterized in that • that when a first textile tool (102) is installed in a first textile machine (103) of the group (5) of textile machines (3), an identification code (4) is sent to a control unit (6), wherein the first textile machine (103) is identifiable by the identification code (4), • that an exchange interval for textile tools (2) of the first textile machine (103) is stored in the control unit (6), • that the control unit (6) receives the identification code (4) and selects the replacement interval for the first textile tool (102) based on the identification code (4), • that the control unit (6) determines a replacement time (17) for the first textile tool (102) based on the selected replacement interval, • that the control unit (6) generates a signal (7) relating to the exchange time (17) of the first textile tool (102) and which is assigned to the first textile machine (103) • and that the first textile tool (102) is replaced by a new textile tool (202) suitable for replacing the first textile tool (102) as a result of the signal (7).

2. Computer-implemented method (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the signal (7) is sent to a display unit (16), and that the display unit (16) outputs the exchange time (17) and the installation location (18) of the first textile machine (103) in conjunction with each other. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT 3. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that • that the production of a textile product requires a total set N of production steps - a so-called style - wherein the production steps are preferably assigned to different subsets of the total set N of production steps, • that each production step or subset is assigned an individual exchange interval in the control unit (6), • wherein each production step or subset in the control unit (6) is assigned to at least one textile machine (3) from the group (5) of textile machines (3), • and wherein the control unit (6) uses the exchange interval assigned to the first textile machine (103) over a production step or subset for determining the exchange time (17) of the first textile tool (102).

4. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the exchange time (1 ) is determined as a function of a timer which is started when the first textile tool (102) is inserted.

5. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that • that the operating time of the first textile machine (103) is recorded with a sensor • and that the replacement time (17) is determined depending on the operating time of the first textile machine (103) from the time of insertion of the first textile tool (102).

6. Computer-implemented method (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 above. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT characterized by • that the first textile machine (103) moves the first textile tool (102) in strokes to produce the specified textile product, • that the number of strokes of the first textile machine (103) is recorded by a sensor, • and that the exchange time (17) is determined depending on the number of strokes from the time of insertion of the first textile tool (102).

7. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the identification code (4) is detected optically, preferably with a camera or a scanner, or with a transmitter-receiver system, preferably an RFID system or a GPS system.

8. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the identification code (4) is stored as a machine-readable code in a production facility in which the group (5) of textile machines (3) is set up.

9. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that an output station (20) outputs the new textile tool (202) which is suitable for replacing the first textile tool (102) depending on the exchange time (17) of the first textile tool (102).

10. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first textile machine (103) automatically stops depending on the exchange time (17) of the first textile tool (102) if the first textile tool (102) is not exchanged within a predetermined exchange period. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT 11. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first textile tool (102) is automatically replaced by the new textile tool (202) by a replacement device (8) depending on the replacement time (17).

12. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that a signaling device is used to request a replacement of the first textile tool (102) before reaching the replacement time (17).

13. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the state of the first textile tool (102) is recorded during operation and / or after its replacement, and that information on the state - state information - of the first textile tool (102) is sent to the control unit (6).

14. Computer-implemented method (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the control unit (6) stores the exchange time (17) together with the status information for the first textile tool (102) and preferably assigns it to the production step and / or style that is assigned to the first textile machine (103).

15. Computer-implemented method (1) according to one of the preceding claims 13 to 14 characterized in that an optimization of the exchange interval is proposed based on the state information.

16. Computer-implemented method (1) according to any one of the preceding claims Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT characterized in that the control unit (6) determines an exchange time (17) for different textile tools (2) of different textile machines (3), that the signal (7) generated by the control unit (6) relates to the exchange times (17) of the different textile tools (2) and a prioritization of the different textile tools (2) depending on the exchange times (17), and that the different textile tools (2) are exchanged one after the other depending on the prioritization.

17. Data processing system comprising means for carrying out the method according to claim 1.

18. Computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause it to execute the method according to claim 1.

19. Computer-readable medium on which the computer program product according to claim 18 is stored. Groz-Beckert KG 1631-PCT

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