Twisting Head Lay-Length Detection for Uniform Line Bundles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing twisting devices for manufacturing twisted or stranded line bundles struggle with determining the lay length uniformly along the bundle, leading to variations that may not meet quality requirements, necessitating iterative adjustments of manufacturing parameters.

Innovation Solution

A twisting device with a movable detecting device capable of capturing lay length information at various positions along the line bundle, using imaging or laser sensors, and a support device to prevent oscillation, coupled with a control system for real-time adjustment and evaluation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a camera is arranged together with the twisting head on one base end for determining lay length, then the twisting device can determine lay length, but the determination only takes place at one point on one end and external inspection is still required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelay length determinationVSAvoidcomprehensive lay length data
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The detecting device is divided into multiple independent detection units that can be positioned at different locations along the line bundle. Each detection unit captures lay length information at its specific position, enabling comprehensive measurement of the entire line bundle rather than just one point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The detection system transitions from one-dimensional point measurement to multi-dimensional spatial measurement by distributing multiple detecting devices along the longitudinal axis of the line bundle. This allows simultaneous measurement at multiple positions, providing comprehensive lay length data throughout the entire product.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the detecting device is fixed relative to the twisting head, then the device structure is simple, but the detecting device cannot capture lay length information at various positions along the line bundle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection position flexibilityVSAvoiddetecting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detecting device is made movable relative to the twisting head through a positioning mechanism that allows it to be displaced along the longitudinal axis. This dynamic positioning capability enables the detecting device to capture lay length information at various positions while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The detecting device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a fixed reference point and as a movable measurement tool. The same device can be positioned at different locations along the line bundle to perform comprehensive lay length determination, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If external lay length quality inspection apparatus is used, then comprehensive quality check is performed, but manufacturing time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality checkVSAvoidmanufacturing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The detecting device is integrated directly into the twisting device structure, combining the manufacturing function and quality inspection function into a single unified system. This eliminates the need for separate external inspection apparatus and allows simultaneous manufacturing and measurement, thereby maintaining high productivity while ensuring reliable quality control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lay length determination is performed continuously during the twisting process rather than as a separate post-processing step. The detecting device operates concurrently with the twisting operation, capturing measurement data in real-time, which maintains continuous production flow and maximizes manufacturing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

4Manufacturing precision

If manufacturing parameters are adjusted incrementally and iteratively to meet quality requirements, then quality fidelity is improved, but manufacturing time and productivity are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelay length regularityVSAvoidparameter adjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The detecting device provides real-time feedback on lay length measurements during the twisting process. This immediate feedback allows for continuous monitoring and rapid adjustment of manufacturing parameters without the need for iterative trial-and-error approaches, thereby maintaining high manufacturing precision while minimizing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The detecting device is positioned and configured before the twisting process begins, with detection points predetermined along the line bundle. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for time-consuming parameter adjustments during production, as the measurement system is already optimized for the specific manufacturing parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables precise and continuous determination of lay length without external checks, ensuring consistent quality and reducing manufacturing time by allowing for real-time adjustments and eliminating the need for external inspection.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one detecting device is designed for capturing at least one piece of imaging information indicative of a lay length of the line bundle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The support device is designed for supporting the line bundle during the capturing of the at least one piece of imaging information

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical support: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS12482583B2Twisting device and method for determining or checking a lay length of a line bundle, computer- implemented method, and computer program product and upgrade kit therefor
Publication Date: 2025.11.25 SCHLEUNIGER AG
  • US12482583B2 patent drawing
  • US12482583B2 patent drawing
  • US12482583B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A twisting device (10) for twisting or stranding electrical or optical lines (12) to form a line bundle (13). The twisting device (10) comprises at least one first twisting head (15) and a clamping device (25). The first twisting head (15) and the clamping device (25) are spaced apart from each other. The twisting device (10) has at least one detecting device (30) for capturing information indicative of a lay length of the line bundle (13). The at least one detecting device (30) can be moved relative to the first twisting head (15) and the clamping device (25).