Knotting Device Mandrel Suction Thread Bundle Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The process of knotting thread bundles is tedious and physically demanding for operators, especially when switching between different thread sets, as it requires manual formation and securing of knots between old and new thread bundles.

Innovation Solution

A knotting device with a mandrel and suction mechanism that automatically positions and engages thread bundles using vacuum suction, combined with a throw-over device to form square knots, simplifies the process by allowing easy alignment and secure connection of thread bundles with minimal operator effort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual knotting is used to connect thread bundles, then the operator can securely join threads, but the work becomes tedious and physically demanding

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure connection of threadsVSAvoidoperator effort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The knotting device performs the knotting operation automatically without requiring manual manipulation. The suction device holds the thread bundles in position while the mandrel moves to form and tighten the knot autonomously, eliminating the need for operator intervention in the actual knotting process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical action of tying knots by hand is replaced by an automated mechanical system consisting of a suction device, mandrel, and throwing device that collectively perform the knotting function through coordinated mechanical movements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual knotting is used to connect thread bundles, then the operator can join threads securely, but the process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure connection of threadsVSAvoidknotting speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated system performs all knotting operations without operator intervention, significantly increasing the speed at which knots can be formed compared to manual operation while maintaining secure connections through the controlled mechanical actions of the mandrel and throwing device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The knotting device can continuously form knots as thread bundles are fed through the system, with the mandrel and throwing device operating in a continuous cycle to join threads without the interruptions inherent in manual knotting operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Ease of operation

If automated suction is used to position thread bundles, then operator effort is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread positioningVSAvoidknotting mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suction device acts as an intermediary mechanism that simplifies operator interaction by automatically holding and positioning thread bundles, while the added mechanical complexity is confined to this dedicated positioning subsystem rather than the entire knotting system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution significantly reduces the time and physical strain required for knotting, enabling quick and reliable engagement of thread bundles, allowing for efficient operation and reduced downtime during thread changes.

Implementation Method 1

The suction opening can be vacuumed with the suction device. When suction is applied to the suction opening, that is, when a negative pressure is generated here, the first bundle of threads is sucked into the suction opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVacuum suction: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP3192759B1Knotting device and creel
Publication Date: 2019.08.21 KARL MAYER ROTAL SRL
  • EP3192759B1 patent drawingFigure 1~5
  • EP3192759B1 patent drawingFigure 6~9

AI summary

A knotting device (13) is specified with a first path for an end of a first bundle of threads (16) and a second path (21) for an beginning of a second bundle of threads (22), wherein the second path (21) runs around a mandrel (17) which is hollow and has a suction opening, the first path is arranged in front of the suction opening, the suction opening is connected to a suction device (20) and the mandrel (17) is displaceable relative to the first path.