Spinning Machine Piecing Sequence Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Spinning machines with multiple spinning positions face inefficiencies in the piecing process due to limitations in the number of simultaneous piecing processes, which increases the total time required for piecing per operating hour, as they are typically sequenced based on the chronological order of yarn production stoppages rather than considering production-related parameters.

Innovation Solution

Implement a method where spinning positions are classified based on production-related parameters, allowing for the prioritization of piecing processes based on factors like probability of success, past interruptions, and operational efficiency, and temporarily blocking positions if efficiency drops, to optimize the sequence and reduce overall piecing time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If spinning positions are serviced in chronological order of yarn production stoppages, then the control logic is simple, but the total piecing time per operating hour increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol logic simplicityVSAvoidtotal piecing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameter of service sequencing from chronological order to priority-based order determined by classification parameters. The control unit classifies spinning positions based on multiple parameters including probability of piecing success, time since last piecing, and current production status, then services positions in optimized priority order rather than simple chronological order, reducing total piecing time while maintaining manageable control logic through automated classification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If more piecing processes are performed simultaneously, then the productivity increases, but the handling means become overloaded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepiecing throughputVSAvoidhandling means capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements partial action by allowing multiple piecing processes to proceed simultaneously up to the capacity limit of the handling means, while queuing remaining positions in classified priority order. The control unit monitors handling means availability and activates piecing processes progressively, ensuring that the number of simultaneous processes never exceeds handling capacity while maximizing overall throughput through efficient utilization of available resources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Manufacturing precision

If spinning positions are frequently blocked for efficiency reasons, then the yarn quality improves, but the productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveyarn qualityVSAvoidspinning output
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control where the control unit continuously monitors spinning position performance parameters and compares them against predefined quality thresholds. When parameters indicate potential quality degradation, the system automatically blocks affected positions, triggers piecing operations, and adjusts classification priorities. This closed-loop feedback ensures quality maintenance while minimizing blocking duration through rapid detection and response

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This approach minimizes the total time required for piecing processes per operating hour by strategically selecting spinning positions for piecing, improving the overall efficiency of the spinning machine by considering specific parameters and dynamically adjusting the sequence and availability of resources.

Implementation Method 1

the yarn leaving the spinning units of the individual spinning positions is monitored during the spinning operation of the respective spinning positions with the aid of yarn monitoring units assigned to the individual spinning positions (e.g. by means of optical or capacitive sensors monitoring the yarn)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical sensing: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP3115487B1Spinning machine and method for operating a spinning frame with a plurality of spinning stations
Publication Date: 2019.09.18 RIETER INGOLSTADT GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for operating a spinning machine with a plurality of spinning stations, wherein the individual spinning stations are normally supplied with a fiber material and produce yarn from it, wherein the yarn production is interrupted at individual or all spinning stations when predefined events occur, wherein the spinning stations at which the yarn production was interrupted are restarted as needed by means of a restarting process in order to restart the yarn production, and wherein the respective restarting is carried out using handling means inherent to the spinning machine.According to the invention, it is proposed that the individual spinning positions are classified on the basis of one or more production-related parameters, and that if more spinning operations are to be carried out simultaneously than can be carried out by the handling means, at least the selection of the spinning position to be spun next is made taking into account the aforementioned classification.