Can Changer Actuating Mechanism for Spinning Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing can changers for spinning preparation machines, such as draw frames and combing machines, face challenges in securely holding cans during movement and quick removal from exchange devices without disturbing guide rails, especially under centrifugal forces.
Innovation Solution
A can changer with actuating devices that allow holding elements to move between open and closed positions, using stop surfaces and retaining elements to securely guide cans, enabling simultaneous movement of two cans on a circular path, and incorporating a rotatable hub with rotating arms and pivot arms with actuators for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cans are held securely during movement using fixed retaining elements, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because cans cannot be quickly removed
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining elements are designed to be movable between a closed position for securing cans during rotation and an open position for quick removal. The actuating device enables operators to switch between these states, making the system dynamic rather than fixed, thus resolving the contradiction between secure holding and easy removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The can changer performs preliminary actions by automatically positioning and securing cans before rotation begins. The retaining elements are pre-configured to engage with cans, and the system prepares the rotating platform with properly positioned cans, reducing the manual effort needed during operation.
2Reliability
If multiple mounting rails are used to keep cans safe during rotation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple mounting functions are merged into a single rotating platform structure. Instead of using separate mounting rails for each can position, the invention uses one integrated platform with radially extending arms that can simultaneously secure multiple cans at different positions, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating platform serves multiple functions: it supports cans during rotation, positions them for filling, transports them between stations, and provides a stable base for the retaining elements. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated structures for each function, reducing device complexity.
3Productivity
If a rotary changing device is used to replace cans, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple mounting rails
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary changing device uses a dynamic rotating platform that can quickly reposition cans between filling and empty positions. The movable retaining elements enable rapid loading and unloading operations, achieving high productivity without requiring complex fixed mounting structures at each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the rotating platform automatically transports cans between stations and the actuating device allows operators to quickly exchange cans without manual intervention at each position. This automation achieves high productivity while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
4Ease of operation
If holding elements are made accessible from outside for manual operation, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential accidental opening
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically securing cans with the retaining elements before the rotating platform begins movement. Sensors or detection mechanisms ensure that cans are properly fixed before rotation starts, preventing accidental opening during operation while maintaining external accessibility for controlled manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The can changer incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position and securement state of cans and retaining elements. This feedback system ensures that cans are properly fixed before rotation and provides real-time information to the control system, preventing operation under unsafe conditions while allowing manual access when appropriate.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The can changer ensures secure and efficient can exchange, allowing for parallel operation with double-head routes, reducing operational effort, and preventing accidental opening or injury by ensuring cans are fixed and removed correctly, even under centrifugal forces.
Implementation Method 1
each holding element (3) by means of an actuating device (4) between a closed position in which a pot (1) with the aid of the retaining element (3) and the associated stop face (2) of the respective Can gripping device is fixed, and an open position, in which no fixing of the pot (1) is carried out, is movable
Implementation Method 2
ensure that the cans can be held securely during its movement without disturbing the guide rails and quickly removed from the exchange device of the changing operation
Implementation Method 3
The pivot arms (6) can be formed with respective support members (3) and the associated actuator (4) in the radial end region of a respective rotation arm (6), in order to ensure the above-mentioned accessibility
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a can changer for a spinning preparation machine, preferably for a drafting, carding, or combing machine, wherein the can changer has at least two can gripping devices, each of which allows a can (1) to be moved between a first position and a second position, wherein each can gripping device has a stop surface (2) for the can (1) and a holding element (3) movably mounted relative to the stop surface (2). According to the invention, it is proposed that each holding element (3) be movable by means of an actuating device (4) between a closed position, in which a can (1) can be fixed by means of the holding element (3) and the associated stop surface (2) of the respective can gripping device, and an open position, in which the can (1) is not fixed.Furthermore, a method for changing cans (1) on a spinning preparation machine, preferably a drawing, carding or combing machine, is disclosed using a can changer, with which the cans (1) are moved between a first position and a second position during the can change, and which is characterized in that before the can change two cans (1) are fixed with respect to the can changer by means of a common actuating element (9).