Thread Storage Device Needle Insertion Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thread storage devices for yarn bobbins require complex mechanical adjustments and are time-consuming, risking damage to the upper winding layers, especially when dealing with different bobbin shapes, yarn types, or winding thicknesses.
Innovation Solution
A thread storage device with a needle insertion device driven by at least two electric motors, controlled by a unit, allowing precise and automated positioning of the needle to form a loop under the winding layer, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and minimizing disturbance to the yarn during winding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical needle insertion device is used, then the needle can be positioned and inserted, but complex manual adjustments are required and the device must be precisely adjusted for each bobbin type
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical needle insertion device with an automated system using a robotic arm equipped with a needle. The robotic arm is controlled by a control unit that receives bobbin type information and automatically adjusts positioning parameters, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustments for different bobbin types.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm provides dynamic and flexible positioning capabilities compared to fixed mechanical devices. The arm can be programmed to adapt its movement path and insertion parameters based on different bobbin configurations, enabling easy reconfiguration without physical adjustments.
2Productivity
If a mechanical needle insertion device is used, then the needle can be inserted into the bobbin, but the device is time-consuming to readjust for different yarn bobbins
Solution Approach 1:
The automated robotic arm system eliminates time-consuming manual adjustments by using programmable control. The control unit stores positioning parameters for different bobbin types and automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate parameters, enabling rapid switching between production batches.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary programming of the robotic arm's movement path and insertion parameters based on bobbin type information. This pre-programming allows the system to be ready for production immediately without requiring time-consuming on-site adjustments.
3Reliability
If a mechanical needle insertion device is used, then the needle can grip and insert the thread loop, but the uppermost winding layers may be damaged due to lack of adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm provides precise and repeatable positioning control that eliminates the variability and potential errors of manual mechanical adjustment. The control unit ensures the needle is positioned at the correct depth and angle for each bobbin type, preventing damage to the winding layers while maintaining reliable thread storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from bobbin type information (such as from a reading device) to automatically adjust positioning parameters. This closed-loop control ensures the needle insertion parameters are optimized for each specific bobbin configuration, preventing damage while ensuring reliable operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a drop needle driven by gravity is used, then the needle can fall onto the bobbin, but the path and position are fixed and require manual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the gravity-driven drop needle with an automated robotic arm system. The robotic arm can be programmatically controlled to adapt its movement path, insertion depth, and positioning for different bobbin types, providing versatility without requiring manual mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm provides dynamic positioning capabilities that allow the system to adapt to different bobbin configurations. The arm can modify its trajectory and insertion parameters in real-time based on control signals, enabling versatile operation across different bobbin types without fixed mechanical constraints.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a thread storage device (1) for use in the production of a bobbin (31) wound with a yarn, preferably designed as a cross-wound bobbin, having a needle (6) for inserting a loop of the yarn to be formed in the area of the free thread end (33) of the yarn beneath a winding layer of the bobbin (31), and a needle insertion device (8) for guiding the needle (6) to the bobbin (31), and for moving the needle (6) in order to insert the loop beneath the winding layer of the bobbin (31). The needle insertion device (8) comprises at least two electric motors (11, 12, 13), which are equipped for the controlled guidance of the needle (6) to the bobbin (31) by means of a control unit (35), wherein the needle insertion device (8) is preferably configured to perform the moving of the needle (6) for inserting the loop beneath the winding layer of the bobbin (31) by means of an electric motor (11) that can be controlled by the control unit (35).