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(11) | EP 3 986 190 B1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION |
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| (54) |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING FABRICS VORRICHTUNG UND VERFAHREN ZUR HERSTELLUNG VON GEWEBEN APPAREIL ET PROCÉDÉ DE FABRICATION DE TISSUS |
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| Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to the European patent granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention). |
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and related method for producing fabrics to be used for manufacturing assembled textile items such as e.g. jackets, trousers, men's suits, women's dresses or other textile items assembled from a plurality of fabric parts.
PRIOR ART
[0002] Today it is known about several types of assembled textile items, obtained by joining fabric parts of various shapes; each fabric part is obtained by cutting initial half-processed fabrics, e.g. by means of paper patterns.
[0003] The fabrics used for producing these assembled textile items must have predefined properties relating to stability and stiffness, so as to be able to be processed and to give the finished product the desired appearance and technical features. These fabrics include e.g. jersey, velvet, brocade and are manufactured with materials including e.g. cotton, wool, linen, silk and synthetic materials.
[0004] Traditionally, fabrics for assembled items are manufactured by weaving on suitable looms (rectilinear knitting machines) which, thanks to weft and warp knitting, can manufacture fabrics with a high structural stiffness, as is suitable for producing assembled textile items.
[0005] However, a drawback due to the use of looms relates to the low flexibility of manufacturing processes. As a matter of fact, looms require a long and complex initial setup; for this reason, looms are configured for necessarily manufacturing large amounts of fabric (fabrics in large pieces) so that production can be economically advantageous. However, this results in high limitations as far as the flexibility of the manufacturing process of the textile items is concerned, and makes the production of samples and small on-demand amounts expensive.
[0006] It should be further pointed out that production by weaving allows to obtain some types of wefts and patterns: it does not have a high flexibility as far as fabric types or fineness is concerned and does not allow to automatically produce complex structures on the fabric, as can be obtained with other types of knitting machines. This latter drawback further lies on the (low) flexibility of productions by means of looms.
[0007] Today, circular knitting machines are used for producing samples and some knitted items, such as e.g. underwear, technical apparel, sportswear, beachwear, medical apparel and sweaters. Although circular knitting machines have a high flexibility of use if compared with looms, these machines are not suitable for manufacturing fabrics having the required stiffness for producing assembled textile items.
[0008] In order to obviate this drawback, a process for reinforcing fabrics obtained by circular knitting machines has been developed. This process, described in patent application No. WO 2016/125043 A1, includes an initial step of fitting the tubular fabric onto one block or cylinder; the block and the cylinder have a given size apt to house tubular fabrics with a given diameter. Then an operator places a reinforcing fabric provided with adhesive material onto the tubular fabric; through several steps of heating the reinforcing fabric, e.g. by ironing, the operator joins the reinforcing fabric to the tubular fabric thus basically defining a reinforced multilayer fabric to be used for producing assembled textile items.
[0009] Although the solution described above in patent application No. WO 2016/125043 A1 allows to manufacture reinforced fabrics that are suitable for producing assembled textile items, the Applicant has found out that even this solution can be improved in terms of flexibility of use and manufacturing speed.
AIM OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The aim of the present invention is therefore to solve at least one of the drawbacks and/or limitations of prior art solutions.
[0012] A first goal of the present invention is to provide an apparatus than is able to manufacture, effectively and in short times, fabrics suitable for producing assembled textile items; in particular, an aim of the present invention is to provided an apparatus that is able to manufacture fabrics, starting from tubular fabrics obtained by means of circular knitting machines, having an excellent stiffness and a structure that is suitable for producing assembled textile items.
[0013] Another aim of the invention is to provide an apparatus and a method that allow to manufacture fabrics, in particular assembled textile items for small productions and samplings, rapidly and with low costs. A further aim of the invention is to provide an apparatus and a related method that allow to manufacture high quality, low cost fabrics with a high manufacturing flexibility.
[0014] Another aim of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a method for manufacturing fabrics, in particular assembled textile items, that allow to minimize manual interventions by operators and increase productivity. A further aim of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having a simple, compact structure that is able to simplify interventions involving changes and maintenance of the apparatus, and that is therefore able to minimize downtimes. Another aim of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a related method that are suitable for processing different types of laminar materials, such as tubular sheet fiber material, e.g. fabrics, knitted fabrics and/or non-wovens, with a simple and cheap design.
[0015] These and other aims, which shall be more apparent from the following description, are basically achieved by an apparatus and a related method for producing fabrics according to one or more of the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Some embodiments and aspects of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided to a mere indicative and thus non-limiting purpose, in which:
- Figure 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to the present invention;
- Figures 2A-2C are detailed views of a stretching device of an apparatus according to the present invention, shown in different operating conditions;
- Figure 3 is a side view of an apparatus according to the present invention;
- Figure 4 is a detailed perspective view of a stretching device of the apparatus according to the present invention, carrying the tubular fabric and a portion of a reinforcement sheet material;
- Figure 4A is a schematic side view of an apparatus according to the present invention comprising two stretching devices;
- Figures 5A and 5B are further perspective views of an apparatus according to the present invention;
- Figures 6A-6C are schematic representations of steps of engaging the portion of reinforcement sheet material onto the tubular step, executed by means of a connecting station of the apparatus according to the present invention;
- Figure 7 schematically shows a step of cutting a fabric, executed in the connecting station of the apparatus according to the present invention.
DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS
[0017] It should be pointed out that in the present detailed description, corresponding parts shown in the various figures are designated with the same numerals. The figures may show the object of the invention by means of representations that are not to scale; therefore, parts and components shown in the figures and related to the object of the invention may refer to schematic representations only.
Control unit
[0018] The apparatus described and claimed herein can comprise at least one control unit designed to control operating conditions implemented by the apparatus itself. The method described and claimed herein can use a control unit so as to control the means used for executing one or more of the steps of the method itself.
[0019] The control unit can be a single control unit or include a plurality of distinct control units, depending on design choices and operating requirements.
[0020] The wording "control unit" designates an electronic component that can comprise at least one of: a digital processor (CPU), an analogical circuit, or a combination of one or more digital processors with one or more analogical circuits. The control unit can be "configured" or "programmed" for executing some steps: this can be done in practice with any means allowing to configure or program the control unit. For instance, in case of a control unit including one or more CPUs and one or more storages, one or more programs can be stored in suitable storage banks connected to the CPU or CPUs; the program or programs contain instructions which, when executed by the CPU or CPUs, program or configure the control unit for executing the operations described in relation to the control unit. As an alternative, if the control unit is or includes analogical hardware, the circuit of the control unit can be designed for including hardware configured, in use, for processing electric signals so as to execute the steps related to the control unit.
Actuator
[0021] The term "actuator" designates any device that is able to cause a movement on a body, e.g. upon command by the control unit (the actuator receives a command sent by the control unit). The actuator can be electric, pneumatic, mechanic (spring-type), oleodynamic or of other type.
Fabric
[0022] The term "fabric" designates a manufactured item made of sheet material having two dimensions, generally length and width, which are definitely higher than a third dimension defined by thickness. The fabric can be manufactured by weaving yarns made of natural and/or synthetic material.
[0023] In the present description, the wording "tubular fabric" T designates a fabric that can be manufactured with circular knitting machines, having a through seat extending along a longitudinal development of the tubular fabric T itself between a first and second end portion. The through seat is delimited inside by an inner surface Ti opposed to an outer surface Te: the difference between the inner and outer surface of the tubular fabric defines the thickness of the fabric T. The tubular fabric T can be single layer or multilayer or it can exhibit one or more single layer portions and one or more portions of multilayer material.
[0024] In the present description the term "fabric" F designates a reinforced fabric having one or more fabric layers obtained by means of the tubular fabric T and one or more layers of reinforcement sheet material R. As a matter of fact, the reinforced fabric F is defined by a multilayer fabric in which at least one of said layers is in reinforcement sheet material.
[0025] In the present description the wording "reinforcement sheet material" R designates a material having a stiffness that is higher than a stiffness of a fabric obtained from the tubular fabric T. For instance, the reinforcement sheet material R can comprise one or more layers of fiber material and/or fabric obtained by weaving with suitable looms (rectilinear knitting machines) which, thanks to weft and warp knitting, can manufacture fabrics with a high structural stiffness, as is suitable for producing assembled textile items.
Fiber material
[0026] The wording "fiber material" designates a material obtained with fibers of various nature, e.g. fabric, nonwoven material, knitted fabric or combinations of one or more of the aforesaid supports.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Apparatus
[0027] The numeral 1 globally designates an apparatus for producing fabrics F, in particular reinforced fabrics, to be used for manufacturing assembled textile items such as e.g. jackets, trousers, men's suits, women's dresses or other textile items obtained by assembling a plurality of fabric parts.
[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the apparatus 1 comprises a positioning station 2, carried by a propping frame 1a and configured for receiving, supporting and stretching at least one tubular fabric T. The positioning station 2 comprises at least one stretching device 3 configured for contacting at least one portion of the inner surface Ti defining the through seat of the tubular fabric T.
[0029] The stretching device 3 comprises at least a first and a second rod 6, 7 carried by a supporting frame 8 and extending along respective directions of main development that are basically parallel to one another. In detail, the first rod 6 comprises a cylindrical body, extending along an axis of rotation X parallel to the direction of main development of the first rod 6 between a first and a second longitudinal end: the axis of rotation X is integral with and gets through the center of said first rod 6. The cylindrical body of the first rod 6 is configured for contacting the inner surface of the tubular fabric T; the cylindrical body can comprise an outer coating made of plastics, extending almost on the whole development of the rod and configured for contacting the tubular fabric T so as to define with the latter a sufficient friction to reduce the possibility of relative slipping between rod and fabric T during a rotation of the rod. The first rod 6 comprises, basically on the first longitudinal end portion, at least one engagement portion engaged to the supporting frame 8. This engagement portion is hinged to the supporting frame so that the first rod can rotate around its axis X with respect to the supporting frame 8 and in particular with respect to the propping frame 1a of the apparatus 1.
[0030] Similarly, the second rod 7 comprises a respective cylindrical body, extending along an axis of rotation Y parallel to the direction of main development of the second rod 7 between a respective first and a second end: the axis of rotation Y is integral with and gets through the center of said second rod 7. The cylindrical body of the second rod is configured for contacting the inner surface of the tubular fabric T; also the cylindrical body of the second rod 7 can comprise an outer coating made of plastics, configured for contacting the tubular fabric T so as to define with the latter a sufficient friction to reduce the possibility of relative slipping between rod 7 and fabric T during the rotation of the rod 7. The second rod 7 comprises, basically on the first longitudinal end portion, at least one engagement portion engaged to the supporting frame 8. This engagement portion is hinged to the supporting frame 8 so that the second rod 7 can rotate around its axis Y with respect to the supporting frame 8 and in particular with respect to the propping frame 1a of the apparatus 1.
[0031] The first and the second rod 6, 7 are movable approaching and getting away from each other along a transversal direction, optionally an orthogonal direction, with respect to the direction of main development of at least one of the first and second rod 6, 7. In particular, the first and the second rod 6, 7 are movable with respect to one another between a close position, in which the first and the second rod 6, 7 are arranged at such a distance as to allow the tubular fabric T to be fitted, and a distanced position, in which the first and the second rod 6, 7 are arranged at such a distance as to allow the tubular fabric T to be stretched. In the distanced position, the first and the second rod 6, 7 are placed at a higher distance than in the close position; these distances are measured along a direction orthogonal to the main development of the first and/or second rod 6, 7. Some steps of moving the rods 6, 7 are shown in Figures 2A-2C.
[0032] Figure 2A schematically shows a step in which the tubular fabric T is fitted onto the first and second rod 6, 7; the rods get into the through seat of the tubular fabric. Figure 2B schematically shows an initial step in which the tubular fabric T is stretched, wherein the rods 6, 7 are moved away from each other. Figure 2C schematically shows a final step in which the tubular fabric T is completely stretched and the first and second rod 6, 7 are in distanced position. In other words, in distanced position the first and the second rod 6, 7 are configured for arranging the tubular fabric T according to a basically oval, closed path having an upper portion, a lower portion opposed to the upper portion, and a first and second connecting portion between the upper and lower portion. More in particular, the movement of the first and second rod 6, 7 between the close position and the distanced position, and vice versa, is defined as a shift of at least one of the first and second rod 6, 7 with respect to the propping frame 1a.
[0033] Finally, it should be pointed out that the distance between the first and the second rod 6, 7 in the distanced position is defined so as enable a complete and uniform stretching of the tubular fabric T, thus avoiding wrinkles or creases, and can be further chosen so as to define the stretching degree and/or the appearance of the fabric depending on the item to be manufactured. The stretching device 3, in particular the first and/or the second rod 6, 7, can be heated, so as to draw the tubular fabric T arranged over the stretching device 3.
[0034] The stretching device 3 comprises at least one actuator 9 acting upon at least one of the first and the second rod 6, 7, configured for moving the latter by shifting them between the distanced position and the close position. In particular, the actuator 9 can comprise a hydraulic device, optionally a piston, or as an alternative an electric motor and an intermediate drive between the motor and at least one of the first and second rod 6, 7. The accompanying figures have shown in a non-limiting manner an actuator 9 comprising a motor configured for imparting a rotational motion to a drive that is able to convert the rotation motion provided by the motor into a rectilinear motion, and to transfer the latter to at least one of the first and the second rod 6, 7; as a function of the direction of rotation, the motor is able to move the rods between the distanced and close position, and vice versa.
[0035] As mentioned above, the first and the second rod 6, 7 are hinged to the supporting frame 8: the rods are therefore movable by rotation one with respect to the other around their axis. The stretching device 3 comprises at least one motor 10, in particular an electric motor, connected to at least one of the first and the second rod 6, 7 and configured for moving each rod 6, 7 according to a rotational motion with respect to the respective axes of rotation X, Y, so as to define at least one powered rod. Thanks to the rotation of the first and the second rod, the stretching device 3 can move the tubular fabric T around the rods 6, 7. The rotation of the rods 6, 7 can be activated during the movement of the latter from the distanced position to the close position: the correct stretching of the tubular fabric T allows the rods to define with the tubular fabric the friction required for moving the latter.
[0036] The accompanying figures show a schematic configuration in which the first rod 6 only is connected to the motor 10 and thus configured for defining a powered rod; the second rod 7 is neutral and configured for being set into rotation by the tubular fabric T moved directly by the first rod 6.
[0037] The movement by shifting and the rotation of the rods 6, 7 allow the tubular fabric T to be drawn (stretched). In the embodiment shows, the rods 6, 7 are movable both by shifting and by rotation. It is however possible to let the rods 6, 7 of the device 3 be moved by shifting only (movement between the close and distanced position) or be moved by rotation around its own axis only, for stretching the tubular fabric T.
[0038] The stretching device 3 is further movable with respect to the propping frame 1a at least between an operating position in which the stretching device 3 is aligned with the connecting station 5, as shall be better described in the following detailed description, and a second operating position, distanced from the first operating position, in which the stretching device 3 is configured for receiving the tubular fabric T and a reinforcement sheet material R.
[0039] As can be seen in the accompanying figures, the positioning station 2 can comprise at least one guide 2a, e.g. rectilinear, extending between a first and a second end portion; the guide carries in a stable manner the supporting frame 8 of the stretching device 3, which is movable along the guide 2a between the first and second end portion of the latter. The stretching device 3 placed on the first end portion of the guide 2a is basically in the first operating position, i.e. on the connecting station 5; the stretching device 3 placed on the second end portion of the guide 2a is distanced from the connecting station and designed to receive the tubular fabric with the reinforcement sheet material R. The movement of the stretching device 3 between the first and second operating position is managed by at least one actuator.
[0040] The stretching device 3 is further movable along an axis Z (Figure 2A) basically orthogonal to the direction of longitudinal development of the rods 6, 7 and basically orthogonal to a direction of movement of the device 3 from the first to the second operating position. As a matter of fact, with the apparatus 1 in use, the stretching device 3 is movable along a vertical direction. This movement can be managed by a further actuator, acting upon the stretching device 3 and configured for moving it along the axis Z.
[0041] The tubular fabric T can be fitted onto the first and second rod 6, 7 by an operator performing a manual positioning operation. As an alternative, the apparatus 1 can comprise a pick-up station (not shown) configured for picking up the tubular fabric stored in the collecting station by means of a pick-up device. The pick-up station can comprise for instance a sucking system or pinching elements configured for catching the fabric in the collecting station and for fitting it onto the first and second rod 6, 7 in the close position.
[0042] The apparatus 1 further comprises a feeding station 4 for a reinforcement sheet material R that can be positioned on at least one portion of an outer surface Te, of the tubular fabric T, opposed to the inner surface Ti. As mentioned above, the reinforcement sheet material R comprises a fabric that can be manufactured by means of weaving looms and has a higher stiffness than the stiffness of the tubular fabric. The reinforcement sheet material (fabric) extends in thickness between two opposed surfaces. At least one of said opposed surfaced, the reinforcement sheet material R has a coating made of an adhesive material, e.g. glue. The adhesive coating can comprise discrete portions of adhesive material that are uniformly distributed on the whole fabric of the reinforcement sheet material, or it can comprise a continuous layer apt to coat at least one surface portion of the fabric of the reinforcement sheet material R.
[0043] In detail, the feeding station 4 comprises at least one coil 14, configured for providing the reinforcement sheet material R in a continuous manner, together with a powered unwinder, directly connected to the coil 14. Optionally, the unwinder is connected to the coil 14 by means of an intermediate drive, configured for imparting a rotational motion to the coil 14 and thus allowing the continuous sheet of reinforcement material R to be unwound.
[0044] The feeding station 4 can comprise a cutter 15, configured for cutting the continuous sheet of reinforcement material R, so as to define portions 4a (discrete sheets) of reinforcement material R. These portions 4a (discrete sheets) can be positioned, e.g. by an operator, on the tubular fabric T. As described above, the rods of the stretching device 3 are movable by rotation around their axis so as to move the tubular fabric T (e.g. the stretched tubular fabric); thanks to the movement of the rods 6, 7 and therefore of the tubular fabric T, the stretching device 3 can enable the movement of the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material placed on the fabric T.
[0045] The apparatus 1 thus comprises a connecting station 5 configured for cooperating with the stretching device 3, when in the first operating position, so as to allow the reinforcement sheet material R to be engaged to the tubular fabric T. In detail, the connecting station 5 comprises an adhesive treatment head 11 configured for engaging the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R onto the outer surface Te of the tubular fabric T. The adhesive treatment head 11 is movable between a raised position, in which it is distanced from the stretching device 3 in the first operating position, and a lowered position in which the adhesive treatment head 11 is close to the stretching device 3 in the first operating position and optionally partially in contact with the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material. The head 11, in the lowered position, is configured for enabling the portion 4a to be engaged, optionally glued, to the tubular fabric T. As a matter of fact, in the lowered position the adhesive treatment head 11 lies at a smaller distance from the device 3, in the first operating position, than a distance of said head 11 from the device 3 still in the first operating position. As can be seen in the accompanying figures, in the first operating position and with the apparatus 1 in use, the stretching device 3 is vertically aligned with the connecting station 5 and in particular below the adhesive treatment head 11.
[0046] The connecting station 5 can further comprise at least one first actuator configured for moving (e.g. shifting) the adhesive treatment head 11 between the lowered position and the raised position, and vice versa. The first actuator can comprise an electric motor and an intermediate drive between the motor and the adhesive treatment head 11: the motor is configured for imparting a rotational motion to the drive, which can convert the rotation motion provided by the motor into a rectilinear motion and to transfer the latter to the adhesive treatment head 11.
[0047] The adhesive treatment head 11 can comprise a heater for engaging the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R to the outer surface Te of the tubular fabric T. As a matter of fact, as described above, the reinforcement sheet material R can comprise a coating of adhesive material, e.g. glue, that can be placed in contact with the tubular fabric T. In this configuration, the heater is configured for applying under heat (heat sealing) the portion 4a on the fabric T: the heater melts the glue, which can then act as a binder between the portion 4a and the tubular fabric T. The adhesive treatment head can be further configured for exerting a pressure onto the portion 4a getting close to the tubular fabric T.
[0048] The connecting station 5 can comprise a propping element 12 that can be inserted into the through seat of the tubular fabric T with the stretching device 3 in the first operating position (aligned with the adhesive treatment head 11) and with the rods 6, 7 in the distanced position; in detail, the propping element 12 can be inserted between said first and second rod 6, 7 when in the distanced position. The propping element 12 is configured for supporting the tubular fabric T, optionally, the upper portion of the tubular fabric T directly facing the adhesive treatment head 11. As a matter of fact, the propping element 12 defines an intermediate element placed between the upper portion and the lower portion of the tubular fabric T.
[0049] The propping element 12 is movable along a direction parallel to the direction of development of said rods 6, 7, at least between an engaged position in which it is placed at least partially between said first and second rod 6, 7 and configured for supporting the tubular fabric T, and an extracted position in which it is at a distance from said first and second rod 6, 7. The connecting station 5 can further comprise at least one second actuator configured for moving the propping element 12 between the engaged position and the retracted position. The second actuator can comprise an electric motor and an intermediate drive between the motor and the propping element 12: the motor is configured for imparting a rotational motion to the drive, which can convert the rotation motion provided by the motor into a rectilinear motion and to transfer the latter to the propping element 12.
[0050] The connecting station 5 can further comprise a resting plate 13 opposed to the adhesive treatment head 11 and configured for supporting the stretching device 3 in the first operating position. The resting place 13 is movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The resting plate 13, in the lowered position and with the apparatus 1 in use, is placed below the adhesive treatment head 11, at a distance from the stretching device 3, while in the raised position the resting plate 13 is configured for contacting the lower portion of the tubular fabric T, opposed to the adhesive treatment head 11. In other words, the resting plate 13 defines a supporting element for the adhesive treatment head 11, so that said adhesive treatment head 11 can support the rods 6, 7 of the stretching device 3 at least during the lowered position of the adhesive treatment head 11.
[0051] The connecting station 5 further comprises at least one third actuator configured for moving the resting plate 13 between the lowered position and the raised position, and vice versa. In particular, the third actuator can comprise a pneumatic or hydraulic piston, or an electric motor and an intermediate drive between the motor and the resting plate 13.
[0052] The connecting station 5 is configured for engaging the (discrete) portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R to the tubular fabric T so as to define a fabric F: the fabric F is basically represented by a reinforced fabric comprising a layer obtained from the tubular fabric and at least one layer (the reinforcement layer) defined by the reinforcement sheet material.
[0053] The apparatus 1 can comprise a cutting station 16 placed on the positioning station 2 and configured for cutting the (reinforced) fabric F exiting the connecting station. As a matter of fact, the fabric F exiting the connecting station 5 is still tubular in shape and around the first and second rod 6, 7; the cutting station 16 is configured for cutting through the fabric F along its whole longitudinal development so as to open it, so that said reinforced fabric F can be fully stretched along a plane.
[0054] The cutting station 16 can comprise a cutter, e.g. defined by one or more rotating blades and/or one or more knives, configured for contacting the fabric F tubular in shape and cutting through the latter so as to open the reinforced fabric F. The cutter is configured for shifting along a guide parallel to the direction of main development of the rods 6, 7; the cutter thus tears through the tubular fabric, which at the end of the cutting step can be fully stretched along a flat surface.
[0055] The apparatus 1 can further comprise at least one sensor, optionally an optical sensor, configured for detecting a marking element for the tubular fabric T, at least when the tubular fabric T is fitted onto the stretching device 3 and in particular with the first and second rod 6, 7 arranged in the distanced position. The marking element can be defined by a particular seam or 'pattern' made on the outer Te and/or inner surface Ti of the tubular fabric T, which can be also seen after positioning the portion 4a on the tubular fabric T and at least in the distanced condition of the first and second rod 6, 7. The sensor is configured for generating a signal representing a position of the tubular fabric T arranged on the stretching device 3.
[0056] The apparatus 1 can comprise a control unit connected to the actuator 9 and to the motor 10 of the positioning station 2 and configured for controlling the relative movement between the first and the second rod 6, 7. In particular, the control unit is configured for sending suitable control signals to the actuator 9 so as to move the first and the second rod 6, 7 from the closed position to the distanced position, and vice versa. The control unit is further configured for sending suitable control signals to the motor 10 configured for moving each rod along the respective axis of rotation X, Y. In particular, the control unit is configured for controlling the rotation of at least one of the first and second rod 6, 7 at least during the relative movement of said first and second rod 6, 7 between the close position and the distanced position.
[0057] The control unit can be configured for receiving as input at least one parameter representing the size of the tubular fabric T to be fitted onto the stretching device 3, so that it can correctly control the actuator 9 of the stretching device 3 for adjusting the distance between the first and second rod 6, 7 in the distanced position. In particular, the representative parameter can be at least one of the diameter of the tubular fabric T, the circumference of the tubular fabric T and a length of the tubular fabric T.
[0058] Furthermore, the control unit is responsible for the movement of the stretching device 3 from the positioning station 2 to the connecting station 5 as described above (first and second operating position).
[0059] The control unit can be further connected to the first actuator, to the second actuator and to the third actuator of the connecting station 5, and be configured for controlling the first, second and third actuator so as to synchronize the movement of the adhesive treatment head 11 from the raised position to the lowered position with the movement of the propping element 12 in the engaged position and the movement of the resting plate 13 in the raised position.
[0060] It should be pointed out that the step in which the portion 4a of reinforcement material R is glued to the tubular fabric T is divided, in a non-limiting manner for the invention, into three sub-steps shown in the Figures 6A, 6B, 6C. The control unit is connected to the at least one sensor and configured for receiving as input the signal from said sensor, processing the signal so as to assess a position of the tubular fabric T on the stretching device 3 and, eventually, as a function of the assessment of the position of the tubular fabric, controlling the motor 10 connected to at least one of said first and second rod 6, 7 so as to adjust the movement of said tubular fabric T around said rods. Still more particularly, the control unit is configured for interrupting the rotation of each rod 6, 7 so that at least one of the first and the second longitudinal end of the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R is aligned with at least one of the first and the second rod 6, 7 (see for instance Figure 6A). This type of positioning allows to align possible wefts defined on the tubular fabric T with possible wefts defined on the discrete sheet of reinforcement material R.
[0061] Then, in a first sub-step, the control unit controls the first, second and third actuator so that a first length of the portion 4a is glued. The control unit therefore imparts another rotation to each rod 6, 7 so that a second length of the portion 4b, not yet engaged to the tubular fabric T, faces the adhesive treatment head 11 (Figure 6B). The control unit is configured for interrupting the rotation of each rod 6, 7 when it receives a suitable signal from the sensor detecting another marking element or after a predefined rotation of the first and/or second rod 6, 7. Thus the second length of the portion 4a is correctly aligned with the adhesive treatment head 11. Thanks to the control unit it is therefore possible to obviate problems involving the relative slipping of the tubular fabric T and the portion 4a, which might negatively affect the correct gluing of this last portion on the tubular fabric T: in other words, the control unit ensures the correct gluing of the whole portion 4a avoiding any wrinkle or crease.
[0062] The control unit therefore controls the first, second and third actuator so as to glue the second length 4a. The third sub-step shown in Figure 6C, in which a third length of the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R is glued, is identical with the sub-step executed for gluing the first and the second length.
[0063] The control unit is further connected to the motor for unwinding the coil 14. The control unit is configured for receiving as input a parameter representing a predefined amount of continuous sheet of reinforcement material R to be unwound, so that is can correctly control the motor for unwinding the coil 14, thus providing a discrete sheet of reinforcement material R having a predefined length.
[0064] Finally, the control unit is responsible for moving the stretching device 3 from the first to the second operating position and for controlling the cutting station 15 so that it tears the reinforced fabric F in tubular shape F as described in detail above.
[0065] By way of example, though in a non-limiting manner of the invention, the apparatus 1 can have a plurality of stretching devices 3 (e.g. a first and a second stretching device as shown in Figure 4A), each one being in accordance with the above description. The control unit is connected to each stretching device 3 and configured for synchronizing the movement of the stretching devices 3 between the positioning station 2 and the connecting station 5, and vice versa. In particular, the control unit is configured for positioning a first stretching device 3 in the first operating position (i.e. in the position in which the portion 4a is connected to the tubular fabric), while a second stretching device 3 is arranged in the second operating position for the steps of:
- fitting the tubular fabric T onto the first and second rod 6, 7,
- stretching the tubular fabric T,
- positioning the portion 4a on said tubular fabric.
[0066] Similarly, the control unit, connected to each stretching device 3, is configured for synchronizing the movement of the stretching devices 3 between the connecting station 5 and the cutting station 16.
[0067] It should be pointed out that the positioning of the tubular fabric on the first and second rod 6, 7 is wholly independent from the gluing of the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R, so as to execute some steps in parallel. Furthermore, it should be pointed out that also the cutting step is independent from the gluing of the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R, so as to execute also the cutting step in parallel.
[0068] Figure 4A shows two stretching devices 3 in which a stretching device 3 is in the second operating position, and another stretching device 3 in the first operating position, i.e. on the connecting station 5. The movement of the stretching devices 3 takes place along the guide 2a which, in the embodiment of Figure 4A, exhibits a lower portion for shifting a first stretching device 3, and a distinct upper portion for shifting a second stretching device 3.
Method
[0069] Another object of the present invention is a method, using an apparatus in accordance with any one of the appended claims.
[0070] The method comprises a step of positioning the tubular fabric T on the first and second rod 6, 7 of the stretching device 3: both rods 6, 7 are thus located on the through seat of the tubular fabric T, at least partially in contact with the inner surface of said tubular fabric T. During this positioning the rods are in the distanced position.
[0071] Then the method comprises a step of relatively moving (shifting) the first and the second rod 6, 7 from the close position to the distanced position, together with the step of rotating the first and the second rod 6, 7 along the respective axes of rotation X, Y, so as to allow the tubular fabric T to be stretched. The step of relatively moving the rods 6, 7 can thus include shifting close to and away from together with a rotational movement. As an alternative, during the step of stretching the tubular fabric T, the method can include shifting the first and second rod 6, 7 from the close position to the distanced position only, or the relative rotation around its own axis of at least one of said first and second rod.
[0072] Furthermore, the method comprises a step of placing the portion 4a of reinforcement sheet material R in contact with at least one part of the outer surface of the tubular fabric T. In particular, this last step consists both in unwinding the coil 14 providing a continuous sheet of reinforcement material R and in cutting the continuous sheet of reinforcement material R so as obtain a portion 4a shaped as a discrete sheet.
[0073] The positioning of the tubular fabric T on the stretching device and the positioning of the portion 4a on the tubular fabric T can be performed by an operator or automatically by means of suitable stations in which fabrics are picked up and laid down.
[0074] The method, after positioning the portion 4a on the tubular fabric T, can include a step of adjusting the position of the portion 4a on the fabric by means of a step of moving the tubular fabric T around the rods 6, 7 by rotating the latter in the same direction. The rods are rotated until the portion 4a is flush with one of them; this step can be executed so that possible wefts of the portion 4a of sheet material are aligned with the tubular fabric T. This step can be managed by the control unit of the apparatus or by means of a sensor, e.g. an optical sensor, and the presence of marks on the tubular fabric T can assess the position of the latter on the rods of the stretching device 3. During the step of positioning the tubular fabric T and the portion 4a, the stretching device 3 is in the second operating position; the method further comprises the step of moving the stretching device 3 on the connecting station 5, i.e. shifting the stretching device 3 from the second to the first operating position, so that the connecting station 5 can execute a step of engaging the portion 4a onto the tubular fabric T.
[0075] This latter step can include a step of engaging, e.g. gluing, the portion 4a onto at least one portion of the outer surface of the tubular fabric T. The engagement can include a step of heating the coating layer carried by the portion 4a and comprising for instance a heat adhesive material: the engagement of the portion 4a is therefore executed under heat. Thus a fabric F having a tubular shape is obtained, at least partially coated with a discrete sheet of reinforcement material R, thus defining a reinforced fabric F. In particular, the reinforced fabric F is obtained after executing at least one gluing step, optionally three gluing steps, in accordance with the above descriptions and with Figures 6A - 6C.
[0076] In particular, this engagement step includes moving the adhesive treatment head 11 to the lowered position so that the latter can engage, in particular glue under heat, a first length of the portion 4a onto the tubular fabric T. Then the adhesive treatment head is moved to the raised position and the tubular fabric is rotated so as to be able to position at least one second length of the portion 4a in an engagement position facing the adhesive treatment head 11; then the head 11 is moved back to the lowered position so that also said second length of the portion 4a can be engaged, i.e. glued under heat, to the tubular fabric T. Finally, the head 11 is switched back to the raised position and the fabric is rotated again so that a third length of the portion can be moved to the engagement position facing the head 11; then the head 11 is moved back to the lowered position so as to engage, e.g. glue under heat, the third length of the portion 4a to the tubular fabric. Thus, by means of the three steps in which the adhesive treatment head 11 is moved and the tubular fabric is rotated, the method ensures the engagement of the whole portion 4a to at least one part of the outer surface of the tubular fabric.
[0077] During the engagement step, the propping element 12 can be kept in the engaged position, while the resting plate 13 is kept in the raised position so as to support, during the engagement (gluing) steps, the fabric and the stretching device 3.
[0078] Finally, the method comprises the step of moving the stretching device 3 from the first to the second operating position so that the reinforced (coated) tubular fabric can be positioned on the cutting station 16 in which the cutter cuts (opens) the fabric F in tubular shape so as to obtain the reinforced fabric F to be stretched on a plane. This step of cutting the fabric F in tubular shape can be performed before a step in which the fabric F is removed from the stretching device 3.
[0079] The method can include the use of at least two stretching devices 3. While a first stretching device 3 is arranged in the first operating position for connecting the portion 4a to the tubular fabric, a second stretching device 3 is arranged in the second operating position so that the tubular fabric T can be fitted onto the rods 6, 7 of said second stretching device and the portion 4a can be arranged above said tubular fabric. As a matter of fact, the method can thus execute a step of connecting to the portion 4a to a tubular fabric so as to defined a reinforced fabric F and start at the same time the preparation of a second tubular fabric to be reinforced in the positioning station 2.
[0080] The method can further include a step of cutting the flat (reinforced) fabric F according to predefined lines so as to obtain one or more parts of a textile item to be assembled: this cutting step can be performed by using paper patterns or templates. For instance, these paper patterns can be configured for defining a plurality of parts of a men's jacket. By choosing a suitable size of the diameter of the cylinder of the circular machine it is possible to obtain open pieces of reinforced fabric having suitable sizes with respect to the paper patterns or templates to be used, so as to minimize fabric waste. Thanks to the use of a plurality of circular machines with suitable diameters it is possible to obtain a plurality of pieces of reinforced fabric suitable for respective paper patterns or templates. The method can further comprise a step of assembling a plurality of parts obtained from the reinforced fabric F or from a plurality of reinforced fabrics F for manufacturing an assembled textile item, in particular a jacket, a pair of trousers, a men's suit, a women's dress or other textile products assembled from a plurality of parts.
Assembled textile item
[0081] Further disclosed is a non-claimed assembled textile product, in particular a jacket, a pair of trousers, a men's suit, a women's dress or another textile product assembled from a plurality of parts of fabric, comprising a plurality of parts of fabric cut from one or more open pieces of fabric, wherein at least one of such parts of fabric consists of a portion of knitted tubular fabric made by means of a circular knitting machine for hosiery or by means of a knitting machine for knitwear and having a heat adhesive material applied under heat onto at least one portion of a surface of the fabric. A plurality of parts of fabric of the textile product can consist of portions of tubular knitted fabric made by means of a circular knitting machine for hosiery or by means of a knitting machine for knitwear and having a heat adhesive material applied under heat onto at least one portion of a surface of the fabric. In an embodiment, the part of fabric or the parts of fabric made by means of a circular knitting machine for hosiery or by means of a knitting machine for knitwear are provided with a heat adhesive material applied under heat onto a whole surface of the fabric or onto most of the surface of the fabric. In an embodiment, the heat adhesive material is applied onto an inner side of the assembled textile product.
Use
[0082] The fabric obtained with the apparatus and the method described above can be used for making various types of textile products, such as e.g.: jackets, trousers, men's suits, women's dresses, scarves, ties, skirts, underwear, lingerie, knitwear, technical items, sports items, medical items, other textile products assembled from a plurality of fabric parts.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0083] The present invention achieves important advantages. As a matter of fact, the use of a stretching device 3 having rods 6, 7 that can be shifted approaching and getting away allows the device 3 to receive and adapt to tubular fabrics of different size, and allow at the same time to execute a correct step of stretching (tensioning) the tubular fabric T so as to remove creases. Another advantage can result from the possibility of rotating the rods 6, 7 around their own axis; thanks to the movement by rotation of the rods, the stretching device 3 can control the position of the tubular fabric T on the rods 6, 7 and promote at the same time the stretching thereof.
- at least one positioning station (2) configured for receiving and supporting at least one tubular fabric (T), said tubular fabric (T) being of the type that can be manufactured by means of circular knitting machines and exhibits a through seat extending along a whole longitudinal development of the tubular fabric (T), said positioning station (2) comprising at least one stretching device (3) configured for contacting at least one portion of an inner surface (Ti) of the tubular fabric (T), delimiting said through seat,
- at least one feeding station (4) for a reinforcement sheet material (R) that can be positioned on at least one portion of an outer surface (Te) of the tubular fabric (T) opposed to said inner surface (Ti), said feeding station (4) being configured for arranging at least one portion (4a) of said reinforcement sheet material (R) on a predefined pickup position,
- at least one connecting station (5) configured for engaging said portion (4a) of reinforcement sheet material (R) onto said outer surface (Te) of the tubular fabric (T),
characterized in that the stretching device (3) of the positioning station (2) comprises at least one first and one second rod (6, 7) basically parallel to one another and configured for contacting the inner surface (Ti) of the tubular fabric (T), said first and second rod (6, 7) being movable with respect to one another and configured for enabling the tubular fabric (T) to be stretched.- a close position in which said first and second rod (6, 7) can be inserted into the through seat of the tubular fabric (T) placed in one condition,
- a distanced position in which said first and second rod (6, 7) are configured for stretching the tubular fabric (T),
wherein said first and second rod (6, 7), in the distanced position, are placed at a greater distance than a distance of said first and second rod (6, 7) placed in the close position.wherein the second rod (7) comprises a respective elongated cylindrical body extending along a respective axis (Y), said second rod (7) being movable by rotation around its axis (Y),
optionally the first and the second rod (6, 7) are configured for rotating around their respective axes (X, Y) according to identical directions.
wherein at least one of said first and second rod (6, 7) is movable by rotation with respect to the support frame (3) so as to enable the relative movement between said first and second rod (6, 7), optionally so as to allow the first and second rod to shift from the close position to the distance position, and vice versa,
wherein the distanced position (3) comprises at least one actuator (9) acting upon at least one of said first and second rod (6, 7) and configured for enabling the relative movement by shifting between the latter, optionally the shifting of said first and second rod between the close position and the distanced position, and vice versa, optionally said actuator (9) comprising an electric motor.
wherein the stretching device (3) of the positioning station (2) is movable with respect to the propping frame (1a) at least between:
- a first operating position in which said stretching device (3) is aligned with the connecting station (5),
- a second operating position, distanced from the first operating position, in which the stretching device (3) is configured for receiving the tubular fabric (T) and the portion of reinforcement sheet material (R),
wherein the connecting station (5), in the first operating position of the stretching device (3), is configured for acting upon the portion of reinforcement sheet material (R) so as to engage the latter to the outer surface of the tubular fabric (T).
said adhesive treatment head (11), in the lowered position, being configured for enabling the portion (4a) of reinforcement sheet material (R) to be connected to the outer surface of the tubular fabric (T) when the stretching device (3) is in the first operating position,
optionally the adhesive treatment head (11), in the raised position, being configured for allowing the stretching device (3) to be shifted from the first operating position to the second operating position, and vice versa.
- at least one reel (14) configured for unwinding the reinforcement sheet material R in an endless shape,
- at least one cutter (15) configured for cutting the reinforcement sheet material in an endless shape so as to define said portion (4a).
optionally the control unit is connected to the actuator (9) and to the motor (10) of the positioning station (2), the control unit being configured for:
- controlling the actuator so as to enable the relative movement by shifting of the first and second rod (6, 7), optionally the control unit activates the actuator so as to control the close and distanced position of the first and second rod,
- controls the motor (10) for enabling the rotation of at least one of said first and second rod around its axis.
optionally the control unit is configured for controlling the rotation of at least one of said first and second rod (6, 7) at least during the relative movement of said first and second rod (6, 7) between the close position and the distanced position.
wherein the control unit is connected to said sensor and configured for:
- receiving as input the signal from said sensor,
- processing the signal so as to evaluate a position of the tubular fabric (T) arranged on the stretching device (3),
- as a function of the evaluation of the position of the tubular fabric, controlling the motor (10) connected to at least one of said first and second rod (6, 7) so as to adjust the movement of said tubular fabric (T) around said rods.
wherein the control unit is connected to and controls the unwinder, the control unit being configured for:
- receiving as input a parameter representing a predefined amount of reinforcement sheet material to be unwound,
- as a function of said parameter, control the unwinder so that it rotates the reel in order to provide said predefined amount of reinforcement sheet material.
- providing a tubular fabric exhibiting a through seat extending along a whole longitudinal development of the tubular fabric (T), said tubular fabric (T) extending in thickness between an outer surface and an inner surface, said inner surface delimiting said through seat,
- arranging the tubular fabric on said first and second rod so that the latter are arranged in the through seat of the tubular fabric at least partly in contact with the inner surface,
- after the step of arranging the tubular fabric on said first and second rod, moving said first and second rod (6, 7) one with respect to the other so as to allow the tubular fabric to be stretched,
- arranging above the stretched tubular fabric, in contact with at least one part of the outer surface of said tubular fabric, a portion (4a) of reinforcement sheet material (R),
- moving the stretching device in the first operating position on the connecting station (5),
- engaging, by means of said connecting station (5), the reinforcement sheet material to the outer surface of the tubular fabric.
optionally the step of moving the first and second rod (6, 7) comprises the rotation of at least one of said rods around its axis so as to enable a rotation of the tubular fabric around said first and second rod.
- wenigstens eine Positionierungsstation (2), welche dazu eingerichtet ist, wenigstens ein rohrförmiges Gewebe (T) zu erhalten und zu tragen, wobei das rohrförmige Gewebe (T) von dem Typ ist, welcher mittels Rund-Strickmaschinen hergestellt werden kann, und einen Durchgangssitz aufweist, welcher sich entlang einer gesamten longitudinalen Erstreckung des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) erstreckt, wobei die Positionierungsstation (2) wenigstens eine Streckvorrichtung (3) umfasst, welche dazu eingerichtet ist, wenigstens einen Abschnitt einer inneren Fläche (Ti) des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) zu kontaktieren, welcher durch den Sitz begrenzt ist,
- wenigstens eine Zufuhrstation (4) für ein Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial (R), welches an wenigstens einem Abschnitt einer äußeren Fläche (Te) des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) gegenüber der inneren Fläche (Ti) positioniert werden kann, wobei die Zufuhrstation (4) dazu eingerichtet ist, wenigstens einen Abschnitt (4a) des Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterials (R) an einer vorbestimmten Aufnahmeposition anzuordnen,
- wenigstens eine Verbindungsstation (5), welche dazu eingerichtet ist, den Abschnitt (4a) von Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial (R) auf die äußere Fläche (Te) des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) in Eingriff zu bringen,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Streckvorrichtung (3) der Positionierungsstation (2) wenigstens einen ersten und einen zweiten Stab (6, 7) umfasst, welche im Wesentlichen parallel zueinander und dazu eingerichtet sind, die innere Fläche (Ti) des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) zu kontaktieren, wobei der erste und zweite Stab (6, 7) in Bezug zueinander bewegbar und dazu eingerichtet sind, es zu ermöglichen, das rohförmige Gewebe (T) zu strecken.- einer nahen Position, in welcher der erste und zweite Stab (6, 7) in den Durchgangssitz des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) eingesetzt werden können, welches in einen Zustand versetzt ist,
- einer beabstandeten Position, in welcher der erste und zweite Stab (6, 7) dazu eingerichtet
sind, das rohrförmige Gewebe (T) zu strecken,
wobei der erste und zweite Stab (6, 7) in der beabstandeten Position bei einem größeren
Abstand platziert sind als ein Abstand des ersten und zweiten Stabs (6, 7), welche
in der nahen Position platziert sind.
wobei der zweite Stab (7) einen entsprechenden länglichen zylindrischen Körper umfasst, welcher sich entlang einer entsprechenden Achse (Y) erstreckt, wobei der zweite Stab (7) durch eine Rotation um seine Achse (Y) bewegbar ist,
wobei optional der erste und der zweite Stab (6, 7) dazu eingerichtet sind, um ihre jeweiligen Achsen (X, Y) gemäß identischen Richtungen zu rotieren.
wobei wenigstens einer aus dem ersten und zweiten Stab (6, 7) durch Rotation bezüglich dem Transportrahmen (3) bewegbar ist, um so die relative Bewegung zwischen dem ersten und zweiten Stab (6, 7) zu ermöglichen, optional um es so dem ersten und zweiten Stab zu erlauben, sich von der nahen Position zu der Abstandsposition zu verschieben und umgekehrt,
wobei die beabstandete Position (3) wenigstens einen Aktuator (9) umfasst, welcher auf wenigstens einen aus dem ersten und zweiten Stab (6, 7) wirkt und dazu eingerichtet ist, die relative Bewegung durch Verschieben zwischen dem letzteren zu ermöglichen, optional das Verschieben des ersten und zweiten Stabs zwischen der nahen Position und der beabstandeten Position, und umgekehrt, wobei optional der Aktuator (9) einen Elektromotor umfasst.
wobei die Streckvorrichtung (3) der Positionierungsstation (2) bezüglich des Stützrahmens (1a) bewegbar ist wenigstens zwischen:
- einer ersten Betriebsposition, in welcher die Streckvorrichtung (3) mit der Verbindungsstation (5) ausgerichtet ist,
- einer zweiten Betriebsposition, welche von der ersten Betriebsposition beabstandet ist, wobei die Streckvorrichtung (3) dazu eingerichtet ist, das rohrförmige Gewebe (T) und den Abschnitt des Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterials (R) zu erhalten,
wobei die Verbindungsstation (5) in der ersten Betriebsposition der Streckvorrichtung (3) dazu eingerichtet ist, auf den Abschnitt des Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterials (R) einzuwirken, um so den letzteren an der äußeren Fläche des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) in Eingriff zu bringen.
wobei der Haftmittel-Behandlungskopf (11) in der abgesenkten Position dazu eingerichtet ist, es dem Abschnitt (4a) von Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial (R) zu ermöglichen, mit der äußeren Fläche des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) verbunden zu werden, wenn die Streckvorrichtung (3) in der ersten Betriebsposition ist,
wobei optional der Haftmittel-Behandlungskopf (11) in der angehobenen Position dazu eingerichtet ist, es der Streckvorrichtung (3) zu erlauben, von der ersten Betriebsposition zu der zweiten Betriebsposition und umgekehrt verschoben zu werden.
- wenigstens eine Rolle (14), welche dazu eingerichtet ist, das Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial R in einer endlosen Form abzurollen,
- wenigstens ein Schneidelement (15), welches dazu eingerichtet ist, das Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial in einer endlosen Form zu schneiden, um so den Abschnitt (4a) zu definieren.
wobei optional die Steuereinheit mit dem Aktuator (9) und mit dem Motor (10) der Positionierungsstation (2) verbunden ist, wobei die Steuereinheit dazu eingerichtet ist:
- den Aktuator zu steuern, um so die relative Bewegung durch Verschieden des ersten und zweiten Stabs (6, 7) zu ermöglichen, wobei optional die Steuereinheit den Aktuator aktiviert, um so die nahe und beabstandete Position des ersten und zweiten Stabs zu steuern,
- den Motor (10) für ein Ermöglichen der Rotation von wenigstens einem aus dem ersten und zweiten Stab um seine Achse zu steuern.
wobei optional die Steuereinheit dazu eingerichtet ist, die Rotation von wenigstens einem aus dem ersten und zweiten Stab (6, 7) wenigstens während der relativen Bewegung des ersten und zweiten Stabs (6, 7) zwischen der nahen Position und der beabstandeten Position zu steuern.
- Erhalten des Signals von dem Sensor als Eingabe,
- Verarbeiten des Signals, um so eine Position des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) zu evaluieren, welches an der Streckvorrichtung (3) angeordnet ist,
- als eine Funktion der Evaluierung der Position des rohrförmigen Gewebes, Steuern des Motors (10), welcher mit wenigstens einem aus dem ersten und zweiten Stab (6, 7) verbunden ist, um so die Bewegung des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) um die Stäbe anzupassen.
wobei die Steuereinheit mit dem Abwickelelement verbunden ist und es steuert, wobei die Steuereinheit eingerichtet ist für:
- Erhalten eines Parameters, welcher eine vordefinierte Menge von abzuwickelndem Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial repräsentiert, als Eingabe,
- als eine Funktion des Parameters, Steuern des Abwickelelements, so dass es die Rolle rotiert, um die vordefinierte Menge von Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial bereitzustellen.
- Bereitstellen eines rohrförmigen Gewebes, welches einen Durchgangssitz aufweist, welcher sich entlang einer gesamten longitudinalen Erstreckung des rohrförmigen Gewebes (T) erstreckt, wobei sich das rohrförmige Gewebe (T) in einer Dicke zwischen einer äußeren Fläche und einer inneren Fläche erstreckt, wobei die innere Fläche den Durchgangssitz begrenzt,
- Anordnen des rohrförmigen Gewebes an dem ersten und zweiten Stab, so dass die letzteren in dem Durchgangssitz des rohrförmigen Gewebes wenigstens teilweise in Kontakt mit der inneren Fläche angeordnet sind,
- nach dem Schritt des Anordnens des rohrförmigen Gewebes an dem ersten und zweiten Stab, Bewegen des ersten und zweiten Stabs (6, 7) einer in Bezug zu dem anderen, um es dem rohrförmigen Gewebe zu erlauben, gestreckt zu werden,
- Anordnen oberhalb des gestreckten rohrförmigen Gewebes, in Kontakt mit wenigstens einem Teil der äußeren Fläche des rohrförmigen Gewebes, eines Abschnitts (4a) von Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterial (R),
- Bewegen der Streckvorrichtung in der ersten Betriebsposition an der Verbindungsstation (5),
- in Eingriff bringen, mittels der Verbindungsstation (5), des Verstärkungs-Bahnmaterials mit der äußeren Fläche des rohrförmigen Gewebes.
- au moins un poste de positionnement (2) configuré pour recevoir et supporter au moins une étoffe tubulaire (T), ladite étoffe tubulaire (T) étant du type qui peut être fabriqué à l'aide de machines à tricoter circulaires et faisant preuve d'une assise traversante s'étendant le long d'un développement longitudinal complet de l'étoffe tubulaire (T), ledit poste de positionnement (2) comprenant au moins un dispositif d'étirage (3) configuré pour entrer en contact avec au moins une portion d'une surface interne (Ti) de l'étoffe tubulaire (T), délimitant ladite assise traversante,
- au moins un poste d'alimentation (4) pour un matériau de renforcement en feuille (R) qui peut être positionné sur au moins une portion d'une surface externe (Te) de l'étoffe tubulaire (T) opposée à ladite surface interne (Ti), ledit poste d'alimentation (4) étant configuré pour agencer au moins une portion (4a) dudit matériau de renforcement en feuille (R) sur une position de prélèvement prédéfinie,
- au moins un poste de raccordement (5) configuré pour engager ladite portion (4a) du matériau de renforcement en feuille (R) sur ladite surface externe (Te) de l'étoffe tubulaire (T),
caractérisé en ce que le dispositif d'étirage (3) du poste de positionnement (2) comprend au moins une première et une seconde tige (6, 7) basiquement parallèles l'une par rapport à l'autre et configurées pour entrer en contact avec la surface interne (Ti) de l'étoffe tubulaire (T), lesdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) étant mobiles l'une par rapport à l'autre et configurées pour permettre à l'étoffe tubulaire (T) d'être étirée.- une position proche dans laquelle lesdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) peuvent être insérées dans l'assise traversante de l'étoffe tubulaire (T) placée selon un état,
- une position éloignée dans laquelle lesdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) sont configurées pour étirer l'étoffe tubulaire (T),
dans lequel lesdites première et seconde tige (6, 7), dans la position éloignée, sont placées à une distance plus grande qu'une distance desdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) placées dans la position proche.dans lequel la seconde tige (7) comprend un corps cylindrique allongé respectif s'étendant le long d'un axe (Y) respectif, ladite seconde tige (7) étant mobile par rotation autour de son axe (Y),
éventuellement la première et la seconde tige (6, 7) sont configurées pour tourner autour de leurs axes (X, Y) respectifs selon des sens identiques.
dans lequel au moins l'une desdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) est mobile par rotation par rapport au cadre de support (8) afin de permettre le mouvement relatif entre lesdites première et seconde tige (6, 7), éventuellement afin de permettre à la première et à la seconde tige de se décaler de la position proche vers la position éloignée, et vice versa,
dans lequel la position éloignée (3) comprend au moins un dispositif d'actionnement (9) agissant sur au moins l'une desdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) et configuré pour permettre le mouvement relatif par décalage entre cette dernière, éventuellement par décalage desdites première et seconde tige entre la position proche et la position éloignée, et vice versa, éventuellement ledit dispositif d'actionnement (9) comprenant un moteur électrique.
dans lequel le dispositif d'étirage (3) du poste de positionnement (2) est mobile par rapport au cadre de calage (1a) au moins entre :
- une première position fonctionnelle dans laquelle ledit dispositif d'étirage (3) est aligné sur le poste de raccordement (5),
- une seconde position fonctionnelle, éloignée de la première position fonctionnelle, dans laquelle le dispositif d'étirage (3) est configuré pour recevoir l'étoffe tubulaire (T) et la portion du matériau de renforcement en feuille (R), dans lequel le poste de raccordement (5), dans la première position fonctionnelle du dispositif d'étirage (3), est configuré pour agir sur la portion du matériau de renforcement en feuille (R) afin d'engager cette dernière au niveau de la surface externe de l'étoffe tubulaire (T).
ladite tête de traitement adhésive (11), dans la position abaissée, étant configurée pour permettre à la portion (4a) du matériau de renforcement en feuille (R) d'être raccordée à la surface externe de l'étoffe tubulaire (T) lorsque le dispositif d'étirage (3) se trouve dans la première position fonctionnelle,
éventuellement la tête de traitement adhésive (11), dans la position élevée, étant configurée pour permettre au dispositif d'étirage (3) d'être décalé depuis la première position fonctionnelle vers la seconde position fonctionnelle, et vice versa.
- au moins une bobine (14) configurée pour dérouler le matériau de renforcement en feuille (R) en une forme sans fin,
- au moins un dispositif de coupe (15) configuré pour couper le matériau de renforcement en feuille en une forme sans fin afin de définir ladite portion (4a).
éventuellement l'unité de commande est raccordée au dispositif d'actionnement (9) et au moteur (10) du poste de positionnement (2),
l'unité de commande étant configurée pour :
- commander le dispositif d'actionnement afin de permettre le mouvement relatif par décalage de la première et de la seconde tige (6, 7), éventuellement l'unité de commande active le dispositif d'actionnement afin de commander la position proche et éloignée de la première et de la seconde tige,
- commander le moteur (10) pour permettre la rotation d'au moins l'une desdites première et seconde tige autour de son axe.
éventuellement l'unité de commande est configurée pour commander la rotation d'au moins l'une desdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) au moins durant le mouvement relatif desdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) entre la position proche et la position éloignée.
dans lequel l'unité de commande est raccordée audit capteur et configurée pour :
- recevoir comme entrée le signal provenant dudit capteur,
- traiter le signal afin d'évaluer une position de l'étoffe tubulaire (T) disposée sur le dispositif d'étirage (3),
- comme une fonction de l'évaluation de la position de l'étoffe tubulaire, commander le moteur (10) raccordé à au moins l'une desdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) afin d'ajuster le mouvement de ladite étoffe tubulaire (T) autour desdites tiges.
dans lequel l'unité de commande est raccordée au, et commande le, dévidoir, l'unité de commande étant configurée pour :
- recevoir comme entrée un paramètre représentant une quantité prédéfinie du matériau de renforcement en feuille à dérouler,
- comme une fonction dudit paramètre, commander le dévidoir de sorte qu'il fasse tourner la bobine afin de fournir ladite quantité prédéfinie de matériau de renforcement en feuille.
- fournir une étoffe tubulaire faisant preuve d'une assise traversante s'étendant le long d'un développement longitudinal complet de l'étoffe tubulaire (T), ladite étoffe tubulaire (T) s'étendant en épaisseur entre une surface externe et une surface interne, ladite surface interne délimitant ladite assise traversante,
- agencer l'étoffe tubulaire sur lesdites première et seconde tige de sorte que ces dernières soient agencées dans l'assise traversante de l'étoffe tubulaire au moins partiellement en contact avec la surface interne,
- après l'étape de disposition de l'étoffe tubulaire sur lesdites première et seconde tige, déplacer lesdites première et seconde tige (6, 7) l'une par rapport à l'autre afin de permettre à l'étoffe tubulaire d'être étirée,
- disposer au-dessus de l'étoffe tubulaire étirée, en contact avec au moins une partie de la surface externe de ladite étoffe tubulaire, une portion (4a) du matériau de renforcement en feuille (R),
- déplacer le dispositif d'étirage dans la première position fonctionnelle sur le poste de raccordement (5),
- engager, à l'aide dudit poste de raccordement (5), le matériau de renforcement en feuille au niveau de la surface externe de l'étoffe tubulaire.
éventuellement l'étape de déplacement de la première et de la seconde tige (6, 7) comprend la rotation d'au moins l'une desdites tiges autour de son axe afin de permettre une rotation de l'étoffe tubulaire autour desdites première et seconde tige.
REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION
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Patent documents cited in the description