Weft Transfer Clamping Device for Deflection-Free Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weaving machine technologies are not suitable for strip-shaped weft materials as they often result in damage due to deflections and shear forces during transfer to the insertion element.
Innovation Solution
A device with a clamping mechanism that moves in the direction of the insertion element's movement, ensuring a deflection-free and twist-free path for the weft material, using a driven spool or feeder, and featuring a pivoting unit with parallel arms to maintain the weft material's integrity, allowing for smooth transfer and cutting without damaging the reinforcing fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the clamping device is moved in the direction of insertion element movement, then the weft material follows a straight, twist-free path without deflection, but the device requires a drive mechanism to enable the clamping device movement
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is made movable relative to the feed unit through a drive mechanism, allowing it to follow the insertion element's movement path. This dynamic positioning enables the clamping device to maintain optimal contact with the weft material throughout the transfer process, preventing deflection and twist while accommodating the motion requirements of the weaving machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping device serves multiple functions: it clamps the weft material to prevent deflection, guides the material along the straight path, and coordinates movement with the insertion element. By integrating these functions into a single movable unit, the device reduces overall system complexity while maintaining weft material integrity.
2Device complexity
If the clamping device is fixed to the weaving machine, then the structure is simple, but the weft material cannot be delivered without deflection and shear forces
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device transitions from a fixed position to a movable one that follows the insertion element's trajectory. This dynamic adjustment allows the clamping device to maintain the weft material in a straight, tensioned state throughout the transfer, eliminating deflection and shear forces that would otherwise damage the material.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable clamping device acts as an intermediary between the feed unit and the insertion element. It mediates the transfer process by maintaining continuous contact with the weft material, guiding it along the desired straight path while absorbing the motion dynamics required for safe delivery.
3Productivity
If the weft material is conveyed by rollers, then the material can be moved, but relative movement between rollers and material causes damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the roller conveyance system with a clamping device that moves in coordination with the insertion element. Instead of relying on friction-based roller contact that causes relative movement and damage, the clamping device provides controlled, coordinated motion that maintains weft material integrity while achieving productive conveyance.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for transferring a preferably band-shaped weft material (6) from a feed unit to an insertion element (4) of a weaving machine, comprising a clamping device (5) for clamping a free end (E) of the weft material (6). The clamping device (6) can be moved substantially in the direction (BR) of motion of the insertion element (4) between at least two different operating positions. The device (1) contains a drive (8) for moving the clamping device (5). In a method for transferring a preferably band-shaped weft material (6) from a coil or a feed unit to an insertion element (4) of a weaving machine, a free end (E) of the weft material (6) is clamped in a clamping device (5), the free end (E) is transferred to the insertion element (4), then the clamping device (5) is opened, and the weft material is inserted. The clamping device (5) is moved substantially in the direction of motion of the insertion element (4) between at least two different operating positions by means of a drive (8).