Annular Removal Device for Knitting Machine Loop Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removal devices for tubular knitted manufactures from circular knitting machines face issues with accidental disengagement of loops, radial position errors of needles, and high radial volume, which affect safety, precision, and productivity in hosiery production.
Innovation Solution
A removal device with an annular body and rotating annular portions that support removal members, featuring hook-shaped and abutment portions for secure loop engagement and transfer, allowing for precise coupling with needles and efficient transfer of loops, regardless of needle type or shape, using cam devices for selective actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the needle head is inserted in a seat formed in the end of the removal member, then the coupling between removal members and needles is achieved, but the radial volume of the removal device becomes large and the precision is impaired by radial position errors of needles
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of inserting the needle head into a seat at the end of the removal member (axial approach), the invention inverts the coupling approach by having the removal member engage the needle from the radial side. The removal member is inserted radially into the needle shaft, completely obliterating radial position errors and significantly reducing the radial volume of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical seat-based coupling system with a direct radial insertion system. The removal member is inserted radially into the needle shaft and locked in place, eliminating the need for axial seats and reducing radial volume while improving precision.
2Productivity
If the removal device supports the manufacture during further work, then the productivity is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The removal device is designed to perform multiple functions: it removes the manufacture from the knitting machine, transfers it to the toe-closing station, and supports the manufacture during the toe-closing operation. This multi-functionality improves productivity without requiring separate devices for each operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the transfer function and support function into a single removal device. The removal members that transfer the loops also serve as support elements during further processing, combining multiple functions into one integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A removal device for removing a knitted tubular manufacture from a circular knitting machine, comprising an annular removal body which supports a plurality of removal members arranged around the axis of the removal body, the removal body being arrangeable coaxially around the needle cylinder of a circular knitting machine, wherein the removal members are supported by a first annular portion and a second annular portion which can rotate with respect to each other about an oscillation axis to pass between a removal condition, in which they are arranged so as to form a circumference that is coaxial with the axis of the removal device, and a sewing condition, in which the annular portions are arranged so as to face each other.