Braiding Machine Reserve Zone for Uniform Yarn Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional braiding machines produce non-uniform braided structures with large variations in cross-section due to inconsistent yarn density and angles between yarns in zones of different cross-sections.
Innovation Solution
A braiding machine with movable yarn feed spindles and reserve supports allows for easy addition or removal of spindles, using a drive system to maintain uniform yarn density and angle values across varying cross-sections by employing a reserve zone and a global drive system to synchronize spindle movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the number of yarn feed spindles is kept constant during braiding, then the braiding process is simple and continuous, but the yarn density and angles between yarns become non-uniform in zones with large cross-section variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic spindle management system where spindles can be added or removed from the guide path during the braiding process. This allows the number of active spindles to vary according to the cross-section size, maintaining uniform yarn density and angles. The positioning element with cooperative feature enables spindles to be easily placed in reserve or activated without complex dismantling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The braiding process is segmented into zones with different numbers of active spindles. The guide path is divided into sections where spindles can be selectively engaged or disengaged. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific cross-section requirements, ensuring uniform braiding characteristics throughout the entire structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If spindles are removed from the guide path to reduce yarn density in large cross-section zones, then uniform braiding is achieved, but the operation becomes complex requiring dismantling of the braiding machine plate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of the braiding machine during operation. Spindles can be quickly transferred between the guide path and reserve supports without stopping the machine or performing complex dismantling. This dynamic capability maintains ease of operation while achieving uniform braiding density across varying cross-sections.
Solution Approach 2:
Reserve supports act as intermediary elements between the spindles and the guide path. These supports allow spindles to be temporarily stored or activated without directly interfering with the braiding process. The positioning element serves as a mediator that facilitates easy transfer of spindles between active and reserve states.
3Manufacturing precision
If the number of spindles is increased to maintain yarn density in large cross-section zones, then uniform braiding is achieved, but the device complexity and difficulty of spindle management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The braiding machine employs a dynamic spindle configuration where the number of active spindles can be adjusted during the process. This allows the system to adapt to varying cross-section requirements without requiring a permanently complex setup. The positioning element with cooperative feature simplifies the management of this dynamic configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Reserve supports are prepared in advance to receive spindles that will be added or removed during braiding. This preliminary arrangement of reserve supports allows for smooth transitions in spindle numbers without requiring complex real-time management or dismantling operations during the braiding process.
Data Source
AI summary
A braiding machine includes a plurality of yarn feed spindles movable along a guide path so as to participate in the braiding, a reserve zone able to receive at least one spindle such that its participation in the braiding is interrupted.