Ring spinning machine and kit for retrofitting a ring spinning machine

Abstract

Ring spinning machine (1) comprising a ring spindle (2), a drafting unit (3) and per ring spindle (2) a thread guiding device (4), arranged between the ring spindle (2) and an outlet (5) of the drafting unit (3), wherein the thread guiding device (4) comprises a hood (6) arranged coaxially to a rotation axis (7) and encompassing 5 a bell-shaped inner space (8) delimited in radial direction by an inner side wall (9) extending between a thread entry opening (10) arranged at an upper end (11) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) and a rim (12) at a lower end (13) of the bell-shaped inner space (8); and wherein a thread outlet gap (14) is formed between the rim (12) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) and an upper end (15) of the ring 10 spindle (2), said thread outlet gap (14) acting during operation as an outlet for the at least partially spun thread (16) from the hood (6).

Description

[0001] P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0002] 1 / 29

[0003] RING SPINNING MACHINE AND KIT FOR RETROFITTING A RING SPINNING MACHINE

[0004] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a ring spinning machine comprising a ring spindle, a drafting unit and per ring spindle a thread guiding device, arranged between the ring spindle and an outlet of the drafting unit. The present disclosure further relates to a kit, in particular retrofit kit for a ring spinning machine.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0007] In ring spinning machines, yarns are drawn through a drafting unit, where slivers are fed and stretched to achieve a desired thickness. The drawn slivers exit the drafting unit and are guided towards a ring spindle, where they are twisted and spun into thread. The ring spindle, along with a traveler circulating a spinning ring, imparts a twist to the thread, which is then wound as yarn onto a bobbin.

[0008] WO04072439A1 , published in August 2004 on behalf of Deutsche Institute fur Textil- und Faserforschung Stuttgart Stiftung des bffentlichen Rechts, describes a thread guiding device for ring spinning machines. The device is arranged between a drafting unit outlet and the ring spindle, comprising a twist element located at a distance above the upper end of the ring spindle. This twist element is magnetically coupled to the ring spindle, allowing the twist element to rotate at the same speed as the ring spindle. WO’439A1 explains that in conventional ring spinning machines, threads primarily break between the drafting unit and the thread guiding device in what is referred to as the "Break spinning zone." In this P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0009] 2 / 29 zone, sliver emerging from the drafting unit has not yet solidified sufficiently to withstand peaks in thread tension. Additionally, a conventional thread guiding device, such as a thread guiding eyelet, partially obstructs the propagation of rotation into the spinning zone, thereby contributing to the problem of thread breaks.

[0010] In response to this issue, multiple prior art solutions have been proposed over the years. One such approach involves the use of "crowns" placed on the ring spindle to enhance the twisting motion transmitted from the traveler rotating on the ring toward the spinning triangle, with the aim of better consolidating the sliver as it emerges from the drafting unit. With these spindle attachments, the thread is placed in the teeth of the crown and is carried along by the crown. However, the yarn on the crown must perform a reverse movement similar to that of the traveler on the spinning ring, which lags behind the spindle's peripheral speed depending on the winding and winding speed. As a result, the thread experiences backward jumps from one tooth of the crown to the next, leading to undesirable friction, yarn roughening, and damage to the thread. Furthermore, each jump exerts a shock to the traveler, which accelerates the wear and tear of the traveler and spindle components. An alternative solution involving a "spinning finger" as a crown replacement was introduced to mitigate crown indentations and reduce yarn roughening. However, while the spinning finger is smoother, it functions similarly to the crown, causing large thread jumps and leading to the creation of thread bumps. Additionally, the spinning finger cannot be properly balanced, necessitating special spindle bearings to manage the imbalance. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0011] 3 / 29

[0012] A rotating thread guide is also disclosed in DE19629787A1 , first published in January 1998 on behalf of Novibra GmbH. In DE‘787A1 a twisting device is positioned between the conventional thread guide and the ring traveler directly above the ring spindle.

[0013] However, there is still room for improvement of the state of the art as exemplified by WO04072439A1 and DE19629787A1 , specifically with regards to controlling the thread’s rotational motion and reducing issues such as slippage, intermittent operation, and excessive thread tension and / or friction since thread breaks and yarn roughening remain problems in the spinning zone.

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0015] The objective of the present disclosure is to provide a ring spinning machine, respectively a kit for retrofitting a ring spinning machine, which overcomes one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it is an object of the present disclosure, to provide a ring spinning machine, respectively a kit for retrofitting a ring spinning machine, that can provide a defined, continuous rotation and smooth guidance of the thread from the drafting unit to the ring spindle, ensuring improved thread stability and reducing occurrences of thread damage and breaks. According to the present disclosure, these objects are addressed by the features of the independent claims. In addition, further advantageous embodiments follow from the dependent claims and the description. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0016] 4 / 29

[0017] According to the present disclosure, the above-mentioned objects are particularly achieved by a ring spinning machine comprising one or more ring spindles, a drafting unit and a thread guiding device per ring spindle.

[0018] The thread guiding device is located between the ring spindle and an outlet of the drafting unit. The thread guiding device comprises a hood. The hood is arranged coaxially to a rotation axis of the ring spindle. The hood encompasses a bellshaped inner space. The bell-shaped inner space is delimited in the radial direction by an inner side wall. The inner side wall extends in the axial direction of the rotation axis. It extends between a thread entry opening arranged at an upper end of the bell-shaped inner space and a rim arranged at a lower end of the bellshaped inner space.

[0019] The bell-shaped inner space is configured such that a thread outlet gap is formed between the rim arranged at the lower end of the bell-shaped inner space and an upper end of the ring spindle. In particular, thread outlet gap is formed between an inner circumference of the rim and an outer circumference of the upper end of the ring spindle.

[0020] During operation, the thread outlet gap acts as an outlet for the at least partially spun thread from the hood, i.e. the thread which has been spun due to a rotation of the ring spindle.

[0021] According to a variation, the inner side wall of the hood adjacent to the rim overlaps in the axial direction with the upper end of the ring spindle. In other words, the inner side wall of the hood surrounds the upper end of the spindle. Thereby, P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0022] 5 / 29 the thread outlet gap extends in the vertical direction in an overlap region. According to embodiments disclosed herein, the overlap between the inner side wall of the hood and the upper end of the ring spindle leaves a ring-shaped gap inbetween.

[0023] According to a variation, the bell-shaped inner space, as its name suggests, has the general shape of a traditional bell. It preferably encompasses a curved, domelike structure which widens towards the lower end. Good results can be achieved when the bell-shaped inner space follows a gradual and smooth expansion from the upper end downwards. Starting at the thread entry opening located at its upper end, the bell-shaped inner space preferably extends downward, expanding radially towards the lower end. As the space descends towards the lower end, it transitions into a wider diameter, culminating at the rim. This rim is positioned to guide the thread as it exits the bell-shaped inner space, ensuring a seamless transition through the thread outlet gap. The thread outlet gap acts as a passageway for the (at least partially) spun thread to exit the hood, guided by the shaping of the bell-shaped inner space.

[0024] In a variation, a thread twisting element is arranged at the thread entry opening. According to a particular embodiment, the thread twisting element may be arranged inside the thread entry opening at the upper end of the bell-shaped inner space. The thread twisting element is arranged rotational about the rotation axis of the ring spindle. The thread twisting element comprises a thread passage channel for guiding the thread. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0025] 6 / 29

[0026] Good results can be achieved when the thread passage channel is arranged eccentric with respect to the rotation axis. Due to the eccentric positioning of the thread passage channel, during operation, the thread passing through the thread passage channel from the outlet of the drafting unit to the ring spindle is laterally deflected in a rotational manner, thereby inducing a twisting of the thread.

[0027] The thread passage channel can be helix-shaped. According to a variation the thread passage channel can be helix-shaped with a downwardly increasing gradient. To facilitate production, the thread passage channel is laterally open when the thread twisting element is removed from the thread entry opening. According to a variation, the helix-shaped thread passage channel has a conical core, in particular a conical core widening towards its lower end.

[0028] The twisting element is preferably rotationally coupled to the ring spindle such that during operation a rotation of the rind spindle causes a rotation of the twisting element, such that the twisting element and the ring spindle rotate synchronously, in particular at the same speed. The twisting element can be rotationally coupled with the ring spindle by a magnetic field. The magnetic can be generated between a first magnet, in particular a permanent magnet, attached to the thread twisting element and a second magnet, in particular a permanent magnet, attached to the ring spindle. Good results can be achieved when the twisting element is rotation- ally coupled with the ring spindle by a magnetic field generated between a plurality of first magnets - distributed around the rim of the bell-shaped inner space - interacting with a plurality of second magnets distributed around an outer circumference of the upper end of the ring spindle. In particular, the plurality of first P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0029] 7 / 29 magnets - and the plurality of second magnets are oriented with radially facing magnetic poles.

[0030] In a preferred variation, the hood is arranged rotatable along with the thread twisting element. Hence, in this embodiment, the twisting element rotates together with the hood, allowing for the thread to be spun in a controlled manner as it enters the bell-shaped inner space through the thread entry opening and exits through the thread outlet gap. In a preferred design, the hood is comprises a lower section that encompasses the bell-shaped inner space and an upper section that encompasses the thread entry opening and the therein arranged thread twisting element. Preferably the lower section has a larger diameter than the upper section. The upper section may be interconnected via a rotational bearing to a support, such as a support arm. The thread twisting element and the hood may be arranged displaceable around a swivel axis, in particular around a swivel axis of the support. The hood and the thread twisting element are thereby arranged displaceable between an operation position and an in-feeding position. In the operation position, the thread twisting element is rotationally coupled to the ring spindle, facilitating spinning of the thread onto the ring spindle. In the in-feeding position, the hood is interconnected to a suction bell of a suction device. The suction device may comprise a suction tube. The suction bell is fluidically connected with the suction tube. According to embodiments, the suction tube additionally acts as a holding rail for the thread guiding device. During operation, the suction tube comprises a negative pressure such that in the in-feeding position the thread is sucked from the bell-shaped inner space through the thread entry opening for in-feeding. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0031] 8 / 29

[0032] The suction device may comprise a valve. The valve is configured to fluidically connect the suction tube with the suction bell in the maintenance I in-feeding position enabling the negative pressure from the suction tube to suck the thread from the bell-shaped inner space through the thread entry opening. The valve is configured such that it fluidically seals off the suction tube from the suction bell in the operation position. Good results can be achieved when the valve is a spring- actuated valve displaceable into an open position by a force applied onto the suction bell by the hood in the in-feeding position. The spring-actuated valve is further configured to return to a closed position upon release of the force applied onto the suction bell when in the operation position.

[0033] The disclosed ring spinning machine may further comprise a spindle attachment for attachment to the upper end of the ring spindle. The spindle attachment accommodates the second magnet. The spindle attachment may comprise a sleeve surrounding the upper end of the ring spindle or a tube insert for being inserted into a recess at the upper end of the ring spindle.

[0034] The present disclosure further relates to a kit for retrofitting a ring spinning machine. According to a variation, the kit comprises a thread guiding device according to any of the embodiments described herein. The kit may further comprise a spindle attachment for attachment to an upper end of a ring spindle of a ring spinning machine. The spindle attachment comprises the second magnet. The first magnet and the second magnet rotationally couple the twisting element to the ring spindle by a magnetic field. The magnetic field is generated between the first magnet and the second magnet such that during operation the twisting element rotates synchronously with the ring spindle. A thread outlet gap may be P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0035] 9 / 29 formed between the rim arranged at the lower end of the bell-shaped inner space and an upper end of the spindle attachment. The thread outlet gap acts during operation as an outlet for the at least partially spun thread from the hood. The kit may further comprise a suction device according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0036] Variations disclosed herein are advantageous as they may enable lower spinning tension and / or higher spinning speeds while providing for a higher spinning stability. Furthermore, variations disclosed herein are beneficial for their potential for a self-cleaning effect.

[0037] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present variations and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the disclosure. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various variations and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operation of the concepts disclosed.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The herein described disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which should not be considered limiting to the disclosure described in the appended claims. The drawings are showing: P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0040] 10 / 29

[0041] Fig. 1 A perspective view of a ring spinning machine according to a variation of the present disclosure;

[0042] Fig. 2 A further perspective view of a ring spinning machine according to a variation of the present disclosure;

[0043] Fig. 3 A perspective view of a thread guiding device and an upper end of a ring spindle 2 according to a variation of the present disclosure, with a 90° partial cut-out, the thread guiding device being connected to a suction device by a support arm;

[0044] Fig. 4 A perspective view of a thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure, comprising a hood arranged - during operation - such as to circumferentially overlap an upper end of the ring spindle;

[0045] Fig. 5 A cross-section of a hood of the thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure, a twisting element being arranged at its thread entry opening, a rotational bearing being arranged at the upper section of the hood;

[0046] Fig. 6 A perspective view of a thread twisting element according to a variation of the present disclosure, illustrating a helix-shaped thread passage channel with a downwardly increasing gradient having a conical core, widening towards its lower end; P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0047] 11 / 29

[0048] Fig. 7 A cross-section of a thread twisting element according to a variation of the present disclosure, illustrating the conical core of the thread passage channel;

[0049] Fig. 8 A top view of the thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure, illustrating cross-section plane B-B of figure 10;

[0050] Fig. 9 A cross-section of the thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure, comprising a hood rotationally coupled with a support arm to a suction device;

[0051] Fig. 10 A cross section of a spindle attachment for attachment to an upper end of a ring spindle;

[0052] Fig. 11 A perspective view of the thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure in an operation position;

[0053] Fig. 12 A perspective view of the thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure, the hood being at an intermediary posi- tion between the operation position and an in-feeding position; and

[0054] Fig. 13 A perspective view of the thread guiding device according to a variation of the present disclosure in an in-feeding position. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0055] 12 / 29

[0056] DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0057] Reference will now be made in detail to certain variations, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all features are shown. Indeed, variations disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the variations set forth herein; rather, these variations are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Whenever possible, like reference numbers will be used to refer to like components or parts.

[0058] It shall be noted that the use of the terms “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower” refer to the axis Z of the cartesian coordinate system chosen for illustrative purposes. However, these terms are not to be interpreted as limiting these elements to a specific orientation.

[0059] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a ring spinning machine 1 according to a variation of the present disclosure. The drafting unit 3 is positioned above a set of ring spindles 2. Each ring spindle 2 is associated with a thread guiding device 4 that is located between the ring spindle 2 and an outlet 5 of the drafting unit 3. The thread 16 is shown extending from the outlet 5 of the drafting unit 3, passing through the thread guiding device 4, and being directed towards the ring spindles 2. The arrangement of the drafting unit 3 and the thread guiding device 4 ensures that the thread 16 is guided smoothly and continuously towards the ring spindles 2. The perspective view illustrates the placement of multiple ring spindles 2 in a row, with each ring spindle 2 being connected to its respective thread guiding device 4 and drafting unit 3. The design of the ring spinning machine 1 , as shown in this figure, is configured to ensure the proper handling and spinning of the P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0060] 13 / 29 thread 16, facilitating smooth operation in accordance with the objectives of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 2 shows a further perspective view of the ring spinning machine 1 according to a variation of the present disclosure. As visible on this view, a suction pump 35 is arranged at one end of the suction tube 27, the suction pump 35 being provided to generate a negative pressure within the suction tube 27.

[0062] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a thread guiding device 4 and an upper end 15 of a ring spindle 2 according to a variation of the present disclosure, with a 90° partial cut-out. The thread guiding device 4 is connected to a suction device 25 via a support arm 32. The yarn entry opening 10 of the thread guiding device 4 is visible in this figure, illustrating the point where the yarn 16 (not shown on this figure) would enter the thread guiding device 4. The figure illustrates the spatial relationship and mechanical connection between the thread guiding device 4, the ring spindle 2, and the suction device 25.

[0063] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a thread guiding device 4 according to a variation of the present disclosure, comprising a hood 6 that is arranged such that, during operation, it circumferentially overlaps the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2. The hood 6 encompasses a bell-shaped inner space 8, which is delimited by an inner side wall 9 extending in the axial direction along the rotation axis 7 of the ring spindle 2.

[0064] A yarn entry opening 10 is located at the upper end 1 1 of the bell-shaped inner space 8 is shown with a thread twisting element 17 arranged inside the yarn entry P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0065] 14 / 29 opening 10. The thread twisting element 17 includes a thread passage channel 18 for guiding the yarn 16 (not shown on this figure) and is positioned eccentrically relative to the rotation axis 7.

[0066] The lower end 13 of the hood 6 has a rim 12 that, when positioned above the ring spindle 2, creates a thread outlet gap 14 between the inner circumference of the rim 12 and the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2, facilitating the exit of the partially spun yarn 16. A plurality of first magnets 20 are distributed around the circumference of the rim 12, while a plurality of second magnets 21 are distributed around the circumference of the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2. The plurality of first magnets 20 and the plurality of second magnets 21 are oriented with radially pointing magnetic poles, enabling the rotational coupling of the thread twisting element 17 to the ring spindle 2 via a magnetic field 19 (shown with a double arrow) generated between the first magnet 20 and the second magnet 21 . This configuration ensures synchronous rotation between the thread twisting element 17 and the ring spindle 2.

[0067] Figure 5 shows a cross-section of a hood 6 of the thread guiding device 4 according to a variation of the present disclosure, with a thread twisting element 17 arranged inside the thread entry opening 10. The hood 6 is divided into an upper section 23 and a lower section 22. The upper section 23 of the hood 6 is supported by a rotational bearing that facilitates the rotation of the thread twisting element 17. The thread passage channel 18 is visible, positioned eccentrically within the thread twisting element 17, allowing for lateral deflection of the thread 16 (not shown on this figure) as it enters through the thread entry opening 10. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0068] 15 / 29

[0069] The lower section 22 of the hood 6 gradually widens, encompassing the bellshaped inner space 8.

[0070] The figure also illustrates the bell-shaped inner space 8 formed within the hood 6, which is defined by the inner side wall 9 that runs along the rotation axis 7. A first opening 33 and second opening 34 of the thread passage channel 18 are shown, for the thread 16 to enter respectively exit the twisting element 17. The first magnet 20 is arranged at the lower end of the upper section 23, enabling the rotational coupling of the twisting element 17 with the ring spindle 2 via a magnetic field (not shown on this figure).

[0071] The lower section 22 of the hood 6 expands gradually to encompass the bellshaped inner space 8. The cross-section view clearly outlines how the various components of the thread guiding device 4 are integrated, particularly how the thread twisting element 17, rotational bearing, and hood 6 work together to ensure smooth thread handling and spinning during operation.

[0072] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a thread twisting element 17 according to a variation of the present disclosure. The figure illustrates a helix-shaped thread passage channel 18 that circles around the rotation axis 7. The thread passage channel 18 follows a downwardly increasing gradient, having a conical core that gradually widens towards the lower end of the thread twisting element 17. The spiral nature of the helix-shaped passage channel 18 is clearly visible, demonstrating how the thread 16 (not shown on this figure) is guided - during operation - through the twisting element 17, inducing a rotational motion as it moves downward. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0073] 16 / 29

[0074] Figure 7 shows a cross-section of figure 6 of the thread twisting element 17 according to a variation of the present disclosure. The cross-section clearly illustrates the conical inner core of the thread passage channel 18, which follows a helix-shaped path as described in earlier figures. The thread passage channel 18 begins at the central first opening 33, located near the top of the twisting element 17, and extends downward to an eccentric second opening 34, located near the lower end of the thread twisting element 17. The conical core of the passage channel 18 widens towards the lower end of the twisting element 17, facilitating the proper twisting and guidance of the thread. The figure highlights the structural complexity of the thread passage channel 18, ensuring smooth passage and controlled twisting of the thread as it moves through the twisting element 17. The cross-sectional view provides a detailed representation of the internal geometry of the twisting element 17, particularly the transitions between the first opening 33 and the second opening 34.

[0075] Figure 8 shows a top view of the thread guiding device 4 connected to a suction device 25 via a support arm 32 according to a variation of the present disclosure, illustrating the cross-section plane B-B that will be depicted in detail in Figure 9.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a cross section of the thread guiding device 4 along plane B-B, as illustrated in Figure 8, according to a variation of the present disclosure. As shown in this cross section, the hood 6 is rotationally coupled to the support arm 32 configured to swivel around the swivel axis 24. This swivel motion allows the hood 6 to be disposed between an operational position and an in-feeding position. A suction tube 27 additionally acts as a holding rail 27 for the suction device 25 and the thread guiding device 4. P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0077] 17 / 29

[0078] In the operation position, the thread twisting element 17 is rotationally coupled to the ring spindle 2, facilitating spinning of the thread 16 (not shown on this figure) onto the ring spindle 2.

[0079] In the in-feeding position, the hood 6 is interconnected to a suction bell 26 of the suction device 25. During operation, the suction tube 27 comprises a negative pressure (generated by a suction pump 35 - see figure 2) such that in the infeeding position the thread is sucked from the bell-shaped inner space 8 through the thread entry opening 10 for in-feeding.

[0080] The suction device 25 comprises a valve 29 configured to fluidically connect the suction tube 27 with the suction bell 26 in the in-feeding position enabling the negative pressure from the suction tube 27 to suck the thread 16 from the bellshaped inner space 8 through the thread entry opening 10. The valve 29 is further configured to fluidically seal off the suction tube 27 from the suction bell 26 in the operation position to avoid unnecessary loss of the negative air pressure in the suction tube 27.

[0081] In the variation shown, the valve 29 is a spring-actuated valve 29 displaceable into an open position by a force applied onto the suction bell 26 by the hood 6 in the in-feeding position. The spring-actuated valve 29 is configured to return to a closed position upon release of the force applied onto the suction bell 26 when in the operation position.

[0082] Figure 10 shows a cross section of a spindle attachment 30, designed for attachment to the upper end 15 of a ring spindle 2 according to a variation of the present P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0083] 18 / 29 disclosure. The spindle attachment 30 is shown centered around the rotation axis 7 and is configured to fit securely at the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2. The spindle attachment 30 houses the plurality of second magnets 21 , distributed circumferentially in the upper section of the attachment. The second magnet 21 interacts with the first magnet (not visible in this figure) located in the thread twisting element to generate a magnetic field. This magnetic field rotationally couples the twisting element to the ring spindle 2, ensuring synchronous rotation between the two components.

[0084] The spindle attachment 30, as illustrated, may comprise either a sleeve surrounding the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2 or a tube insert that can be fitted into a recess at the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2. The cross-sectional view shows how the plurality of second magnets 21 are embedded within the spindle attachment 30, allowing for the magnetic coupling that facilitates rotational coupling operation.

[0085] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the thread guiding device 4 according to a variation of the present disclosure in an operation position. In this position, the hood 6 is securely in place over the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2, ensuring proper guiding and twisting of the thread 16 (not shown on this figure) as it moves through the thread passage channel 18 (see Figure 5) and towards the ring spindle 2. The thread guiding device 4 is aligned for normal spinning operations, with the components arranged to allow smooth and continuous thread movement. The suction device 25, including the suction bell 26 and suction tube 27, remain disconnected from the hood 6. The valve 29 (see Figure 9) seals off the suction tube P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0086] 19 / 29

[0087] 27 from the suction bell 26 to avoid unnecessary loss of the negative air pressure in the suction tube 27.

[0088] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the thread guiding device 4, with the hood 6 in an intermediary position between the operation position and the in-feeding position. The hood 6 is partially swiveled around the swivel axis 24, allowing partial access to the components beneath, including the ring spindle 2 and spindle attachment 30. This intermediary position facilitates minor adjustments or checks without fully disengaging the components.

[0089] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the thread guiding device 4 in the in- feeding position. In this position, the hood 6 is fully swiveled away from the upper end 15 of the ring spindle 2 and interconnected to a suction bell 26 of a suction device 25. A force applied by the hood 6 onto the suction bell 26 causes the spring-actuated valve 29 (see Figure 9) to fluidically interconnect the hood 6 with the suction tube 27 via the suction bell 26, enabling the negative pressure in the suction tube 26 generated by the suction pump 35 - shown on figure 2- to suck the thread from the bell-shaped inner space 8 through the thread entry opening 10 for in-feeding.

[0090] P28932PC00 19.09.2025

[0091] 20 / 29

[0092] LIST OF DESIGNATIONS

[0093] 1 Ring spinning machine 19 Magnetic field

[0094] 2 Ring spindle 20 First magnet (thread twisting 3 Drafting unit element)

[0095] 4 Thread guiding device 21 Second magnet (ring spindle)

[0096] 5 Outlet (drafting unit) 22 Lower section (hood)

[0097] 6 Hood 23 Upper section (hood)

[0098] 7 Rotation axis 24 Swivel axis (hood) 8 Bell-shaped inner space 25 Suction device

[0099] (hood) 26 Suction bell (suction device)

[0100] 9 Inner side wall 27 Suction tube

[0101] 10 Thread entry opening 28 Holding rail

[0102] 11 Upper end (bell-shaped inner 29 Valve space) 30 Spindle attachment

[0103] 12 Rim (lower end of hood) 31 Upper end (of spindle attach¬

[0104] 13 Lower end (hood) ment)

[0105] 14 Thread outlet gap 32 Support arm

[0106] 15 Upper end (ring spindle) 33 First opening (of thread pas¬

[0107] 16 Thread sage channel)

[0108] 17 Thread twisting element 34 Second opening (of thread

[0109] 18 Thread passage channel passage channel) (twisting element) 35 Suction pump

Claims

P28932PC00 19.09.202521 / 29PATENT CLAIMS1 . Ring spinning machine (1 ) comprising a ring spindle (2), a drafting unit (3) and per ring spindle (2) a thread guiding device (4), arranged between the ring spindle (2) and an outlet (5) of the drafting unit (3), wherein a. the thread guiding device (4) comprises a hood (6) arranged coaxially to a rotation axis (7) of the ring spindle (2) and encompassing a bell-shaped inner space (8) delimited in radial direction by an inner side wall (9) extending in axial direction (z) of the rotation axis (7) between a thread entry opening (10) arranged at an upper end (1 1 ) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) and a rim (12) arranged at a lower end (13) of the bell-shaped inner space (8); and b. wherein a thread outlet gap (14) is formed between the rim (12) arranged at the lower end (13) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) and an upper end (15) of the ring spindle (2), said thread outlet gap (14) acting during operation as an outlet for the at least partially spun thread (16) from the hood (6).

2. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the inner side wall (9) of the hood (6) adjacent to the rim (12) of the hood (6) overlaps in axial direction (z) with the upper end (15) of the ring spindle (2), such that the thread outlet gap (14) extends in vertical direction (z).

3. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, whereinP28932PC00 19.09.202522 / 29 a. a thread twisting element (17) is arranged at the thread entry opening (10), in particular inside the thread entry opening (10), at the upper end (11 ) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) rotational about the rotation axis (7) of the ring spindle (2), b. said thread twisting element (17) comprising a thread passage channel (18) arranged eccentric with respect to the rotation axis (7), such that during operation thread (16) passing through the thread passage channel (18) from the outlet (5) of the drafting unit (3) to the ring spindle (2) is laterally deflected in a rotational manner.

4. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 3, wherein the thread passage channel (18) is a. helix-shaped, in particular helix-shaped with a downwardly increasing gradient and / or b. laterally open when the thread twisting element (17) is removed from the thread entry opening (10).

5. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the thread passage channel (18) has a conical core.

6. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to one of the claims 3 to 5, wherein the twisting element (17) is rotationally coupled to the ring spindle (2) suchP28932PC00 19.09.202523 / 29 that during operation the twisting element (17) rotates at the same speed as the ring spindle (2).

7. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 6, wherein a. the twisting element (17) is mechanically coupled to the ring spindle (2) and / or b. the twisting element (17) is coupled by a magnetic field (19), in particular by a magnetic field which is generated between a first magnet (20) attached to the thread twisting element (17) and a second magnet (21 ) attached to the rotor spindle (2).

8. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to one of the claims 3 to 7, wherein the hood (6) is arranged rotatable along with the thread twisting element (17).

9. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 8, wherein the hood (6) has a lower section (22) that encompasses the bell-shaped inner space (8) and an upper section (23) that encompasses the thread entry opening (10) and the therein arranged thread twisting element (17), in particular the lower section (22) has a larger diameter then the upper section (23).

10. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 9, wherein the upper section (23) of the hood (6) is interconnected via a rotational bearing to a support arm (32).P28932PC00 19.09.202524 / 291 1 . Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the hood (6) comprises at the lower section (23) at least one first magnet (20) which during operation is coupled to at least one second magnet (21 ) arranged at the ring spindle (2) by a magnetic field (19) such that the hood (6) and the ring spindle (2) rotate at the same speed, in particular wherein the at least one first magnet (20) and the at least one second magnet (21 ) are arranged radially spaced apart with respect to each other, in particular with their magnetic poles oriented radially.

12. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to one of the claims 3 to 1 1 , wherein the hood (6) and the thread twisting element (17) are arranged displaceable around a swivel axis (24) between a. an operation position in which the thread twisting element (17) is rotationally coupled to the ring spindle (2) and b. an in-feeding position in which the hood (6) is interconnected to a suction bell (26) of a suction device (25).

13. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 12, wherein the suction device (25) comprises a suction tube (27) to which the suction bell (26) is interconnected, in particular a suction tube (27) which acts as a holding rail (27) for the thread guiding device (4) and which during operation comprises a negative pressure such that in the in-feeding position the thread is sucked from the bell-shaped inner space (8) through the thread entry opening (10) for in-feeding.P28932PC00 19.09.202525 / 2914. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to claim 13, wherein the suction device (25) comprises a valve (29), configured to fluidically connect the suction tube (27) with the suction bell (26) in the in-feeding position and to fluidically seal of the suction tube (27) from the suction bell (26) in the operation position, in particular a spring-actuated valve (29) displaceable into an open position by a force applied onto the suction bell (26) by the hood (6) in the in-feeding position and configured to return to a closed position upon release of the force applied onto the suction bell (26) when in the operation position.

15. Ring spinning machine (1 ) according to one of the claims 1 to 14, comprising a spindle attachment (30) for attachment to the upper end (15) of the ring spindle (2), the spindle attachment (30) accommodating the second magnet (21 ), the spindle attachment (30) comprising in particular a sleeve surrounding the upper end (15) of the ring spindle (2) or a tube insert for being inserted into a recess at the upper end (15) of the ring spindle (2).

16. A kit (40) for retrofitting a ring spinning machine (1 ), the kit (40) comprising a thread guiding device (4) comprising a hood (6) having a rotation axis (7), the hood (6) comprising: a. a lower section (22) that encompasses a bell-shaped inner space (8) delimited in radial direction by an inner side wall (9) extending in axial direction (z) between a thread entry opening (10) arranged at an upper end (1 1 ) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) and a rimP28932PC00 19.09.202526 / 29(12) arranged at a lower end (13) of the bell-shaped inner space (8); b. an upper section (23) that encompasses the thread entry opening (10), wherein a thread twisting element (17) is arranged at the thread entry opening (10), in particular inside the thread entry opening (10), at the upper end (11 ) of the bell-shaped inner space (8) rotational about the rotation axis (7) of the ring spindle (2), said thread twisting element (17) comprising a thread passage channel (18) arranged eccentric with respect to the rotation axis (7), such that during operation a thread (16) passing through the thread passage channel (18) is laterally deflected in a rotational manner.

17. The kit (40) according to claim 16, wherein a first magnet (20) is attached to the thread twisting element (17), the kit (40) further comprising a spindle attachment (30) for attachment to an upper end (15) of a ring spindle (2) of the ring spinning machine (1 ), the spindle attachment (30) comprising a second magnet (21 ) for rotationally coupling the twisting element (17) to the ring spindle (2) by a magnetic field which is generated between the first magnet (20) and the second magnet (21 ), such that during operation the twisting element (17) rotates at the same speed as the ring spindle (2).

18. The kit (40) according to claim 17, wherein a thread outlet gap (14) is formed between the rim (12) arranged at the lower end (13) of the bellshaped inner space (8) and an upper end (31 ) of the spindle attachmentP28932PC00 19.09.202527 / 29(30), said thread outlet gap (14) acting during operation as an outlet for the at least partially spun thread (16) from the hood (6).

19. The kit (40) according to one of the claims 16 to 18, wherein the thread passage channel (18) is a. helix-shaped, in particular helix-shaped with a downwardly increasing gradient and / or b. laterally open when the thread twisting element (17) is removed from the thread entry opening (10).

20. The kit (40) according to one of the claims 16 to 19, wherein the hood (6) is arranged rotatable along with the thread twisting element (17).21 . The kit (40) according to one of the claims 16 to 20, wherein the lower section (22) has a larger diameter then the upper section (23).

22. The kit (40) according to one of the claims 16 to 21 , wherein the upper section (23) is interconnected via rotational bearing to a support (28).

23. The kit (40) according to one of the claims 16 to 22, wherein the thread twisting element (17) and the hood (6) are arranged displaceable around a swivel axis (24) between a. an operation position in which the thread twisting element (17) is rotationally coupled to the ring spindle (2) andP28932PC00 19.09.202528 / 29 b. an in-feeding position in which the hood (6) is interconnected to a suction bell (26) of a suction device (25).

24. The kit (40) according to claim 23, further comprising a suction device (25) comprising a suction bell (26) and a suction tube (27) to which the suction bell (26) is interconnected, in particular a suction tube (27) which acts as a holding rail (27) for the thread guiding device (4) and which during operation comprises a negative pressure such that in the in-feeding position the thread is sucked from the bell-shaped inner space (8) through the thread entry opening (10) for in-feeding.

25. The kit (40) according to claim 24, wherein the suction device (25) comprises a valve (29), configured to fluidically connect the suction tube (27) with the suction bell (26) in the in-feeding position and to fluidically seal of the suction tube (27) from the suction bell (26) in the operation position.

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