System for in-line treatment of thread with a mechanism to selectively position a discharge device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thread consuming devices, such as embroidery machines, require multiple pre-colored threads for multi-colored embroidery, which is complex and inefficient, and existing in-line treatment systems lack the ability to switch between operational and idle states without losing alignment, affecting coating substance dispensing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system with a treatment unit and a drive unit that allows the discharge device to be selectively moved between operational and idle positions using a mechanism with varying transmission ratios, enabling precise alignment and independent operation from the thread consuming device, allowing for tasks like cleaning and maintenance without interrupting the coloring process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the discharge device is moved between operational and idle positions, then maintenance and cleaning can be performed, but alignment accuracy with the thread is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic transmission mechanism that automatically adjusts the transmission ratio based on the discharge device's position. When moving from idle to operational position, the transmission ratio changes to ensure precise alignment at the operational position while allowing easy movement to maintenance positions. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptable to different operational states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pre-colored threads are used for multi-colored embroidery, then color variety is achieved, but device complexity and thread management become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter approach from using multiple threads with different colors to using a single thread with in-line color application. The discharge device applies coating substances to the thread in real-time, changing the thread's color parameter dynamically. This eliminates the need for complex thread management systems while maintaining color variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the coloring function from the thread supply system and places it in a separate in-line treatment unit. Instead of managing multiple colored threads through the embroidery machine, the coloring function is taken out and performed by a dedicated discharge device that applies coating substances to a single thread, simplifying the overall system.
3Productivity
If the discharge device is positioned for maintenance or cleaning, then operational flexibility is improved, but coating substance dispensing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism dynamically adjusts its ratio based on the discharge device position. During maintenance or cleaning operations, the device can be positioned away from the thread path with a transmission ratio optimized for easy positioning. When returning to the operational position, the transmission ratio automatically changes to ensure high dispensing accuracy, thus resolving the contradiction between operational flexibility and dispensing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for in-line treatment of thread for use with a thread consuming device is provided. The system includes a treatment unit including at least one discharge device being configured to dispense one or more coating substances onto the at least one thread when activated; and a drive unit being configured to move said at least one discharge device between an idle position and an operational position being arranged along an axis of movement.