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Textile Systems: Broken Yarn and Tension Control System

Client

Universal Textile Machine Corporation, Lawrence, MA.

Problem

With the increase of speed of new textile machines, the old gravity yarn sensors have become inadequate. In some machines, such a warp knitters of the "RASCHEL" type, the yarn sheet direction does not allow drop-wires without extensive modifications. A new spring loaded, completely sealed sensor with tension control characteristics is needed. The sealed feature is important to prevent drop-wire fires caused by sparking

Solution

Picture of the Broken Yarn and Tension Control System showsthe solution of the problem. Small, light-weight, modular sensors that can be stacted side by side and connected together to form a continuous sensing bar, provided tension control plus broken yarn detection. The design consists of independent sensing wires under tension backwards from a small diameter spring (0.050" diameter). Each wire being able to electrically contact two internal bus bars to stop the machine when the yarn tension is either too great or too low. In between, the spring load keeps the yarn within its desired limits. All wires work independently although they are connected to the same circuit. System is completely developed and tested, but not yet patented or set for production for lack of capital. These units are permanently lubricated and sealed, so that no sparking is possible. A felt seal at the front allows the wires to slide and prevent dust and lint to enter.