Flat Knitting Machine Yarn Feeder Variable Position Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

The yarn feeding structure of current flat knitting machines is unable to change the yarn feeding position during the knitting process, leading to potential errors in plated loop placement due to fixed yarn feeding settings.

Innovation Solution

A flat knitting machine yarn feeder with a variable yarn feeding position mechanism, comprising a driving mechanism controlled by electronic signals, a joining plate, and a yarn feeding arm with a guide column that changes position within a trapezoidal guide hole, allowing the yarn feeding arm to adjust its position along the needle bed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the yarn feeding structure uses a fixed yarn feeding position, then the structure is simple and stable, but the yarn feeding position cannot be adjusted according to changing knitting conditions, leading to potential errors in plated loop placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveyarn feeding position adjustabilityVSAvoidyarn feeder structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic yarn feeding mechanism where the yarn feeding arm can be positioned at different locations along the needle bed through a movable guide column within a guide hole. The driving mechanism includes a driving plate that moves a joining plate, which in turn moves the yarn feeding arm to different positions. This allows the yarn feeding position to be dynamically adjusted during the knitting process based on electronic signal control, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If the yarn feeding position is fixed after setup, then the device is easy to operate, but the plated loop position may be incorrect when knitting conditions change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplated loop placement accuracyVSAvoidyarn feeder operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates an electronic signal control system that enables the driving mechanism to adjust the yarn feeding position based on knitting conditions. The electronic signal controls the driving plate's movement, which through the joining plate and guide column mechanism, positions the yarn feeding arm accurately. This feedback-controlled system ensures plated loop placement accuracy while automating the position adjustment process, reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If a variable yarn feeding position mechanism is added, then the yarn feeding position can be changed during knitting, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveyarn feeding position variabilityVSAvoiddriving mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the yarn feeding mechanism into segmented components: a driving plate for generating motion, a joining plate for transmitting motion, a guide column for positioning, and a yarn feeding arm for execution. Each component has a specific function and can be independently controlled or adjusted. This segmentation allows the variable yarn feeding position capability to be achieved through coordinated movement of discrete parts rather than a monolithic complex mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The joining plate serves as an intermediary element between the driving plate and the yarn feeding arm. It receives motion from the driving plate through the guide hole and guide column mechanism, and transmits this motion to the yarn feeding arm. This intermediary structure enables the complex motion requirements to be broken down into manageable stages, reducing overall system complexity while achieving variable yarn feeding positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3705613B1Flat knitting machine yarn feeder with variable yarn feeding positions
Publication Date: 2021.07.14 PAI LUNG MACHINERY MILL CO LTD
  • EP3705613B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3705613B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3705613B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A flat knitting machine yarn feeder (20) with variable yarn feeding positions is provided. The flat knitting machine yarn feeder (20) includes a driving mechanism (21) and a yarn feeding mechanism (22). The driving mechanism (21) is controlled by an electronic signal and includes a driving plate (24) which makes a push stroke (240) after started. The yarn feeding mechanism (22) comprises a joining plate (25) connected with the driving plate (24) and a yarn feeding arm (26) assembled with the joining plate (25). The joining plate (25) comprises a guide hole (251). The yarn feeding arm (26) comprises a guide column (261) disposed in the guide hole (251). The joining plate (25) makes a displacement stroke (254) when the driving plate (24) makes the push stroke (240). The guide column (261) changes a position in the guide hole (251) when the joining plate (25) makes the displacement stroke (254). The yarn feeding arm (26) changes a yarn feeding position when the guide column (261) changes the position.