Warp Knitting Machine Spring Arrangement with Fluid Cavity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing warp knitting machines require significant design effort to adjust natural frequencies for different yarn types, thicknesses, and patterns, and are prone to resonance issues due to limited operational flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A warp knitting machine with a fluid-filled cavity arrangement in the spring tension compensation device, where the pressure of the fluid can be adjusted to change the spring properties and natural frequency, allowing for dynamic adaptation to various operating conditions through a connected actuating and control system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple springs are distributed over the working width to adjust natural frequency, then the adaptability to different yarn types and patterns is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different yarn types and patternsVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple spring arrangements are merged into a single common support structure for the yarn guide. Instead of having separate adjustment mechanisms for each spring, they are combined into one unit with a shared support element that can be collectively adjusted, reducing the overall complexity while maintaining the ability to adapt to different yarn types and patterns

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The support element serves multiple functions: it supports multiple springs simultaneously, provides a common adjustment point for all springs, and enables collective tuning of the natural frequency for the entire yarn guide assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a piston-cylinder arrangement with compressed air is used to adjust spring tension, then the adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different operating conditionsVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The complex piston-cylinder arrangement with compressed air is replaced by a simpler direct mechanical adjustment mechanism. The support element can be adjusted manually or through a simple mechanical linkage, eliminating the need for pneumatic systems while maintaining adaptability to different operating conditions

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

Solution Approach 2:

The spring tension adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-adjusting or easily adjustable by the operator without requiring external pneumatic systems. The support element can be directly manipulated to change the tension, making the system easier to operate while still adapting to different yarn types and speeds

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 easy adjustment of natural frequencies to accommodate different yarn types and patterns, reducing the risk of resonance and simplifying the adjustment process, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

If the manipulated variable of the fluid is changed, then the spring properties of the shaped body also change. In particular, the natural frequency of the shaped body can be changed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid pressure: Pressure Increase

Implementation Method 2

A spring arrangement (15) having a shaped body (16) which is designed in an elongate manner and which is formed from an elastic material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3159443B1Warp knitting machine
Publication Date: 2023.07.19 KARL MAYER STOLL R&D GMBH
  • EP3159443B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3159443B1 patent drawingFigure 2~4
  • EP3159443B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A warp knitting machine with at least one spring arrangement (15) is described. The aim is to enable a wide range of operating modes in a simple manner. For this purpose, the spring arrangement (15) is provided to have at least one elastic molded body (16) which has a cavity arrangement (17) that is pressurized with a fluid, wherein at least one control parameter of the fluid can be changed externally.