Braiding Machine Horngear Mode Switching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing braiding technologies face challenges in seamlessly switching between tubular and flat braiding modes without interrupting operation, maintaining constant speed, and requiring parts changes or complex mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A braiding machine with a track and horngears configured to form non-intersecting closed paths, allowing bobbin carriers to move in different modes by adjusting hornplate engagement and using switching mechanisms to transition between tubular and flat braiding modes while maintaining constant speed and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the machine switches between tubular and flat braiding modes using conventional mechanisms, then mode versatility is improved, but operation continuity is interrupted and speed must be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The hornplates are designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing the machine to switch between tubular and flat braiding modes by changing the engagement configuration of the hornplates with the bobbin carriers. This dynamic reconfiguration enables mode switching without stopping the machine or changing speed, as the hornplates can be repositioned while the braiding process continues at constant velocity.
Solution Approach 2:
The same horngears and hornplates serve multiple functions by operating in different configurations. The hornplates can engage with bobbin carriers in various patterns to produce both tubular and flat braiding modes, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each mode and enabling continuous operation across different braid types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional switching mechanisms are used to change braiding modes, then mode flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism is merged with the existing horngears and hornplates structure. Instead of adding separate switching devices, the hornplates themselves are designed to provide both the braiding function and the mode-switching function through their configurable engagement with the bobbin carriers, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hornplates automatically reconfigure between tubular and flat braiding modes through their inherent mechanical design, without requiring external switching mechanisms or complex control systems. The same components that perform the braiding also perform the mode switching, making the system self-sufficient and simpler in structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If parts changes are required to switch braiding modes, then mode adaptability is improved, but manufacturing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The braiding process maintains continuous useful action by eliminating the need to stop the machine or change parts when switching between tubular and flat modes. The hornplates can be reconfigured while the machine operates continuously at constant speed, ensuring that the braiding process never interrupts and manufacturing efficiency is maximized.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding or changing parts when switching modes, the system recovers and reuses the same horngears and hornplates in different configurations. The hornplates are reused across both tubular and flat braiding modes, eliminating the need for parts changes and maintaining high manufacturing efficiency throughout mode transitions.
Data Source
AI summary
A braider comprises a plurality of horngears. The horngears can be arranged for forming at least two closed paths for braiding. Each horngear has a driving gear and a hornplate. Each horngear can be selectably operated in a first mode, to rotate with the driving gear, and in a second mode, in which the driving gear rotates, but the hornplate does not. Bobbin carriers are positioned on some of the horngears. A track is configurable in: a first flat braiding mode with the carriers arranged on the horngears, so that there is one or more separate closed path for forming a first flat braid configuration; and a second flat braiding mode for forming a second flat braid configuration different from the first flat braid configuration. A switch is provided for changing a configuration of the track between the first and second flat braiding modes.