JP7821682B2 - Heating device and yarn processing machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a heating device for heating yarn and a yarn processing machine equipped with a heating device.

Patent Document 1 discloses a heat treatment device (heating device) that heats yarn during yarn processing such as false twisting. The heating device includes a sheathed heater (heat source) and a heater main body (heating unit). The heating unit is configured to be heated by the heat source and to form a predetermined yarn traveling space through which the yarn travels. More specifically, the heating unit has a heating plate made of a copper alloy. Copper alloys generally have a fairly large heat capacity. Therefore, it is possible to some extent to prevent the heating unit from being cooled by external disturbances (for example, outside air entering the yarn traveling space for some reason).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-146640

Generally, the only way to reliably suppress temperature fluctuations in the heating unit due to disturbances is to make the heat capacity of the heating unit very large. However, doing so could result in the heating device becoming very large. Therefore, in order to strike a balance between suppressing device size and suppressing temperature fluctuations due to disturbances, the heating unit is generally designed to have a certain level of heat capacity. However, in such a configuration, once the temperature of the heating unit drops due to a disturbance, the temperature of the yarn traveling space and/or the components that form the yarn traveling space (hereinafter referred to as the yarn traveling space, etc.) also drops. In this case, it could take a long time for the temperatures of the heating unit and the yarn traveling space, etc. to return to the set temperature.

The object of the present invention is to suppress temperature drops in the yarn traveling space, etc. due to external disturbances, and to quickly raise the temperature of the yarn traveling space, etc. even if the temperature drops.

A heating device of the first invention is a heating device for heating a yarn traveling through the yarn traveling space, comprising a heat source and a heating unit configured to be heated by the heat source and to form a yarn traveling space extending at least in a predetermined first direction, wherein the heating unit comprises: a first heating element made of a first material and positioned so as not to come into contact with the yarn traveling through the yarn traveling space; and a second heating element made of a second material having a lower volumetric specific heat than the first material and positioned at least between the heat source and the yarn traveling space in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction and so as not to come into contact with the yarn traveling through the yarn traveling space.

By using a material with a relatively high volumetric specific heat as the first material constituting the first heating element, it is possible to suppress to some extent the temperature drop of the heating section due to disturbances. Furthermore, in the present invention, the second heating element made of a second material with a low volumetric specific heat can be heated more quickly than the first heating element. This allows the yarn traveling space, etc. to be heated quickly via the second heating element arranged between the heat source and the yarn traveling space (a detailed definition will be given later). Therefore, this rapid heating can suppress the temperature drop of the yarn traveling space, etc. due to disturbances. Furthermore, even if the temperature of the yarn traveling space, etc. drops due to disturbances, the yarn traveling space, etc. can be heated quickly.

The heating device of the second invention is the same as the heating device of the first invention, except that the second heating element is in contact with the heat source.

In this invention, the heat generated by the heat source can be quickly transferred to the second heating element. Therefore, the temperature of the second heating element can be effectively increased.

The heating device of the third invention is the same as that of the first or second invention, characterized in that the second heating member is in contact with the first heating member.

For example, a heat source for heating the first heating element and a heat source for heating the second heating element may be provided separately, with the second heating element positioned away from the first heating element. However, in this case, the manufacturing cost of the heating device increases due to the increased component cost of the heat source. In the present invention, the second heating element is in contact with the first heating element. This allows the first heating element to be quickly heated via the second heating element while suppressing increases in manufacturing costs.

The heating device of the fourth invention is the same as any of the first to third inventions, characterized in that the ratio of the heat capacity of the second heating element to the heat capacity of the first heating element is 20% or more and 40% or less.

If the heat capacity of the second heating element is relatively small, it may take a long time for the temperature of the yarn running space, etc. to rise again when the temperature of the heating element drops due to an external disturbance. However, if the heat capacity of the second heating element is relatively large, the temperature of the heating element may be more susceptible to fluctuations even with a small external disturbance, which may in turn cause the temperature of the yarn running space, etc. to become unstable. In the present invention, the heat capacity of the second heating element is neither too large nor too small compared to the heat capacity of the first heating element. This makes the heating element somewhat resistant to external disturbances, and allows the temperature of the yarn running space, etc. to rise quickly.

The heating device of the fifth invention is characterized in that, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, the second material includes a fibrous material.

In the present invention, by orienting the fiber material in a specific direction, the thermal conductivity of the second material can be made anisotropic. Therefore, heat can be transferred very quickly, particularly in the desired direction.

The heating device of the sixth invention is the heating device of the fifth invention, characterized in that the fiber material is carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber is a lightweight material with high thermal conductivity. Therefore, it can transfer heat very quickly in the desired direction. It also allows for the weight of heating devices to be reduced.

The heating device of the seventh invention is the heating device of the sixth invention, characterized in that the carbon fiber is a pitch-based fiber.

Pitch-based carbon fiber and PAN-based carbon fiber are commonly known carbon fibers. Pitch-based carbon fiber generally has a higher thermal conductivity than PAN-based carbon fiber. In the present invention, by using pitch-based carbon fiber as the carbon fiber, thermal conductivity can be further increased.

The heating device of the eighth invention is the sixth or seventh invention, characterized in that the second material is a composite material of the carbon fiber and graphite.

Composite materials made of carbon fiber and graphite have extremely high thermal conductivity. Therefore, by using a composite material made of carbon fiber and graphite as the second material, thermal conductivity can be further increased.

The heating device of the ninth invention is the sixth or seventh invention, characterized in that the second material is a composite material of the carbon fiber and resin.

A composite material of carbon fiber and resin is less expensive than a composite material of carbon fiber and graphite. Therefore, by using a composite material of carbon fiber and resin as the second material, increases in the manufacturing costs of the heating device can be suppressed.

The heating device of the tenth invention is any one of the first to ninth inventions, characterized in that the second heating element is arranged to extend at least in the first direction, and the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in at least the first direction than the first material.

In this invention, heat can be quickly transferred in the first direction via the second heating element. This reduces temperature variations in the yarn running space, etc., in the first direction.

The heating device of the eleventh invention is any one of the first to tenth inventions, characterized in that, in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction, when a direction in which a predetermined imaginary line extending from the heat source toward the yarn traveling space is defined as a second direction, the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in at least the second direction than the first material.

In this invention, heat can be quickly transferred from the heat source to the yarn traveling space, etc. via the second heating element. Therefore, the temperature of the yarn traveling space, etc. can be quickly raised.

The heating device of the twelfth invention is any one of the first to eleventh inventions, characterized in that the heating unit has a contact member that extends in at least the first direction and that comes into contact with the yarn.

In a configuration in which a contact member is provided, as in the present invention, the temperature of the contact member can be effectively raised by quickly raising the temperature of the second heating member.

The heating device of the thirteenth invention is the same as the twelfth invention, but characterized in that the contact member is in contact with the second heating member.

In the present invention, the temperature of the contact member can be effectively raised by heat conduction between the contact member and the second heating member, which is heated quickly.

The heating device of the 14th invention is the 12th or 13th invention, characterized in that the contact member is configured to be detachable from the heating unit.

Generally, when processing yarn while it is running, an oil is applied to the yarn to ensure smooth running. If such oil and/or scum accumulates on the contact member, it may interfere with the normal running of the yarn, so the contact member must be cleaned periodically. With this invention, the contact member can be temporarily removed from the heating unit, significantly improving the efficiency of maintenance such as cleaning the contact member (removing oil, etc.).

The yarn processing machine of the fifteenth invention is characterized by comprising a heating device of any one of the first to fourteenth inventions, a yarn deformation device that deforms the yarn, and a yarn feeding device for running the yarn that is configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation device, and is configured to process the yarn while it is running.

The present invention can prevent fluctuations in the heating temperature required to process yarn due to external disturbances. Therefore, fluctuations in the quality of yarn processed by the yarn processing machine can be reduced.

1 is a side view of a false twisting machine for carrying out the textured yarn manufacturing method of the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a false twisting machine laid out along the yarn path. 5A to 5D are explanatory diagrams showing a first heating device. FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of FIG. 10 is a table showing physical property values of a first heating member and a second heating member. 10 is a table showing physical property values of a first heating member and a second heating member according to a modified example. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a first heating device according to another modified example, taken perpendicular to the first direction.

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 1 is the machine base longitudinal direction, and the left-right direction of the paper is the machine base width direction. The direction perpendicular to both the machine base longitudinal direction and the machine base width direction is the up-down direction (vertical direction) in which gravity acts. The machine base longitudinal direction and the machine base width direction are directions approximately parallel to the horizontal direction.

(Overall configuration of false twisting machine)
First, the overall configuration of a false twisting machine 1 (yarn processing machine of the present invention) for carrying out the textured yarn manufacturing method of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a side view of the false twisting machine 1. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the false twisting machine 1 unfolded along the path (yarn path) of the yarn Y.

The false twisting machine 1 is configured to be able to false twist a yarn Y made of synthetic fibers. The yarn Y is, for example, a multifilament yarn made of multiple filaments. Alternatively, the yarn Y may be made of a single filament. The false twisting machine 1 comprises a yarn supplying unit 2, a processing unit 3, and a winding unit 4. The yarn supplying unit 2 is configured to supply the yarn Y. The processing unit 3 is configured to pull out the yarn Y from the yarn supplying unit 2 and false twist it. The winding unit 4 is configured to wind the yarn Y processed by the processing unit 3 onto a winding bobbin Bw. Multiple components of the yarn supplying unit 2, processing unit 3, and winding unit 4 are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the machine (see Figure 2). The longitudinal direction of the machine is perpendicular to the running plane of the yarn Y (the plane of the paper in Figure 1) formed by the yarn path from the yarn supplying unit 2 through the processing unit 3 to the winding unit 4.

The yarn supplying unit 2 has a creel stand 7 that holds multiple yarn supply packages Ps and supplies multiple yarns Y to the processing unit 3. The processing unit 3 is configured to pull out multiple yarns Y from the yarn supplying unit 2 and process them. The processing unit 3 is configured to include, in order from upstream in the yarn running direction, a first feed roller 11 (yarn feeding device of the present invention), a twist stop guide 12, a first heating device 13 (heating device of the present invention), a cooling device 14, a false twist device 15 (yarn deformation imparting device of the present invention), a second feed roller 16, an intertwining device 17, a third feed roller 18, a second heating device 19, and a fourth feed roller 20. The winding unit 4 has multiple winding devices 21. Each winding device 21 winds the yarn Y that has been false twisted in the processing unit 3 onto a winding bobbin Bw to form a winding package Pw.

The false twisting machine 1 has a main frame 8 and a winding frame 9 spaced apart across the width of the machine. The main frame 8 and the winding frame 9 are arranged to extend over approximately the same length across the length of the machine. The main frame 8 and the winding frame 9 are arranged to face each other across the width of the machine. The false twisting machine 1 has a unit called a span, which includes a pair of the main frame 8 and the winding frame 9. In one span, the various devices are arranged so that multiple yarns Y running side by side across the length of the machine can be false twisted simultaneously. In the false twisting machine 1, these spans are arranged symmetrically across the page, with the center line C of the main frame 8 across the width of the machine as the axis of symmetry (the main frame 8 is common to both the left and right spans). Furthermore, multiple spans are arranged across the length of the machine.

(Configuration of processing part)
The configuration of the processing unit 3 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. The first feed roller 11 is configured to unwind the yarn Y from the yarn supply package Ps attached to the yarn supplying unit 2 and feed it to the first heating device 13. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the first feed roller 11 is configured to feed one yarn Y to the first heating device 13. Alternatively, the first feed roller 11 may be configured to feed each of adjacent yarns Y downstream in the yarn running direction. The twist stop guide 12 is configured to prevent the twist imparted to the yarn Y by the false twist device 15 from propagating upstream of the twist stop guide 12 in the yarn running direction.

The first heating device 13 is configured to heat the yarn Y fed from the first feed roller 11. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the first heating device 13 is configured to be able to heat two strands of yarn Y. More details about the first heating device 13 will be provided later.

The cooling device 14 is configured to cool the yarn Y heated by the first heating device 13. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the cooling device 14 is configured to cool a single yarn Y. Alternatively, the cooling device 14 may be configured to simultaneously cool multiple yarns Y. The false twist device 15 is located downstream of the cooling device 14 in the yarn running direction and is configured to impart twist to the yarn Y. The false twist device 15 is, for example, a so-called disk friction type false twist device, but is not limited to this. The second feed roller 16 is configured to feed the yarn Y processed by the false twist device 15 to the interlacing device 17. The conveying speed of the yarn Y by the second feed roller 16 is faster than the conveying speed of the yarn Y by the first feed roller 11. As a result, the yarn Y is stretch-twisted between the first feed roller 11 and the second feed roller 16.

The interlacing device 17 is configured to interlace the yarn Y. The interlacing device 17 has, for example, a known interlace nozzle that interlaces the yarn Y using an air flow.

The third feed roller 18 is configured to feed the yarn Y traveling downstream of the interlacing device 17 in the yarn traveling direction to the second heating device 19. The third feed roller 18 is configured to feed a single yarn Y to the second heating device 19, for example, as shown in FIG. 2. Alternatively, the third feed roller 18 may be configured to feed adjacent yarns Y downstream in the yarn traveling direction. The speed at which the third feed roller 18 conveys the yarn Y is slower than the speed at which the second feed roller 16 conveys the yarn Y. Therefore, the yarn Y is relaxed between the second feed roller 16 and the third feed roller 18. The second heating device 19 is configured to heat the yarn Y fed from the third feed roller 18. The second heating device 19 extends vertically, with one second heating device 19 provided per span. The fourth feed roller 20 is configured to feed the yarn Y heated by the second heating device 19 to the winding device 21. As shown in FIG. 2, the fourth feed roller 20 is configured to feed a single yarn Y to the winding device 21. Alternatively, the fourth feed roller 20 may be configured to feed adjacent yarns Y downstream in the yarn running direction. The speed at which the fourth feed roller 20 conveys the yarn Y is slower than the speed at which the third feed roller 18 conveys the yarn Y. Therefore, the yarn Y is relaxed between the third feed roller 18 and the fourth feed roller 20.

In the processing unit 3 configured as described above, the yarn Y drawn between the first feed roller 11 and the second feed roller 16 is twisted by the false twist device 15. The twist formed by the false twist device 15 propagates up to the twist stop guide 12, but does not propagate upstream of the twist stop guide 12 in the yarn running direction. The yarn Y, which has been drawn and twisted, is heated and heat-set by the first heating device 13, and then cooled by the cooling device 14. The yarn Y is untwisted downstream of the false twist device 15 in the yarn running direction, but the heat-set maintains the wavy false twist state of the yarn Y (i.e., the crimp of the yarn Y is maintained).

The false-twisted yarn Y is relaxed between the second feed roller 16 and the third feed roller 18, and is then entangled by the entanglement device 17, or is guided downstream in the yarn running direction without being combined. Furthermore, the yarn Y is heat-treated by the second heating device 19 while being relaxed between the third feed roller 18 and the fourth feed roller 20. Finally, the yarn Y sent from the fourth feed roller 20 is wound by the winding device 21.

(Configuration of winding section)
The configuration of the winding unit 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 2 . The winding unit 4 has a plurality of winding devices 21. Each winding device 21 is configured to be able to wind the yarn Y onto one winding bobbin Bw. The winding device 21 has a fulcrum guide 41, a traverse device 42, and a cradle 43. The fulcrum guide 41 is a guide that serves as a fulcrum when the yarn Y is traversed. The traverse device 42 is configured to be able to traverse the yarn Y using the traverse guide 45. The cradle 43 is configured to rotatably support the winding bobbin Bw. A contact roller 46 is disposed near the cradle 43. The contact roller 46 contacts the surface of the winding package Pw and applies contact pressure. In the winding unit 4 configured as described above, the yarn Y fed from the fourth feed roller 20 is wound onto the winding bobbin Bw by each winding device 21 to form the winding package Pw.

(First heating device)
Next, a more specific configuration of the first heating device 13 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3( a) to 3(d). FIG. 3(a) is a view of the first heating device 13 as seen from the machine base longitudinal direction, and is a view of the first heating device 13 drawn so that the direction in which the first heating device 13 extends (the first direction described below) faces the left-right direction of the page. FIG. 3(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ab-Ab in FIG. 3(a). FIG. 3(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ac-Ac in FIG. 3(b). FIG. 3(d) is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ad-Ad in FIG. 3(b). The direction perpendicular to both the machine base longitudinal direction and the first direction is defined as the height direction (see FIG. 3(b)). In FIGS. 3(a) to 3(d), the upper side of the page is defined as one side in the height direction, and the lower side of the page is defined as the other side in the height direction.

The first heating device 13 is configured to heat the running yarn Y. In this embodiment, the first heating device 13 is configured to be able to heat two yarns Y (yarns Ya and Yb). The first heating device 13 extends in a predetermined first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the machine (see Figure 3(a) etc.). The first heating device 13 has a heat source 51 and a heating unit 52. The first heating device 13 simultaneously heats the running yarns Ya and Yb using the heating unit 52 heated by the heat source 51.

The heat source 51 may be, for example, a known sheathed heater (electric heater). A sheathed heater is a device having a heating wire (e.g., a coil) and a pipe surrounding the heating wire. A sheathed heater generates Joule heat when an electric current flows through the heating wire. The heat source 51 extends in a first direction (see FIG. 3(c)). For example, the heat source 51 has a substantially circular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction (see FIG. 3(b)), but is not limited to this. The heat source 51 is electrically connected to a control device 100 (see FIG. 3(c)), which controls the heating temperature (temperature of the heating section 52). The control device 100 is configured to be able to set the heating temperature of the first heating device 13. The control device 100 controls the first heating device 13 based on the set heating temperature value. The control device 100 may control the first heating device 13, for example, taking into consideration the set heating temperature and the detection results of a temperature sensor (not shown) that detects the actual temperature of the heating unit 52.

The heating unit 52 is configured to be heated by the heat generated by the heat source 51. The heating unit 52 extends in a first direction along the heat source 51 (see FIG. 3(c)). The heating unit 52 has a yarn traveling space S (see FIGS. 3(b) and 3(d)) extending at least in the first direction for traveling the yarn Y. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3(b), two yarn traveling spaces S (yarn traveling spaces Sa, Sb) are formed in which two yarns Ya, Yb respectively travel. The heating unit 52, heated by the heat source 51, heats the yarn Ya traveling in the yarn traveling space Sa and the yarn Yb traveling in the yarn traveling space Sb. More details about the heating unit 52 will be described later.

Generally, to reliably suppress temperature fluctuations in the heating unit 52 due to external disturbances (for example, when external air is suddenly blown onto the heating unit 52), it is sufficient to significantly increase the thermal capacity of the components that make up the heating unit 52. However, doing so may result in the first heating device 13 becoming significantly larger. Therefore, in consideration of the balance between suppressing the size of the first heating device 13 and suppressing temperature fluctuations due to external disturbances, the heating unit 52 is generally designed to have a certain level of thermal capacity. However, with this configuration, once the temperature of the heating unit 52 drops due to an external disturbance, the temperature of the yarn traveling space S and/or the components that form the yarn traveling space S (hereinafter, the yarn traveling space S, etc.) also drops. In this case, it may take some time for the temperatures of the heating unit 52 and the yarn traveling space S, etc., to return to the set temperature. Therefore, in order to suppress temperature drops in the yarn traveling space S, etc., due to external disturbances and to quickly raise the temperature of the yarn traveling space S, etc., even if the temperature of the yarn traveling space S, etc., drops, the first heating device 13 further has the following configuration.

(Detailed configuration of first heating device)
The detailed configuration of the first heating device 13 will be described with reference to Figures 3(a) to 5. Figure 4 is an enlarged view of Figure 3(b). Figure 5 is a table showing the physical property values of the materials constituting the first heating member 53 and the second heating member 54, which will be described later. In Figure 4, the left side of the page is one side in the longitudinal direction of the machine base, and the right side of the page is the other side in the longitudinal direction of the machine base.

As shown in Figures 3(b) and 4, the heating unit 52 has, for example, two first heating members 53, two second heating members 54, and two contact blocks 55 (contact members of the present invention). The two first heating members 53 include first heating members 53a and 53b. The two second heating members 54 include second heating members 54a and 54b. The two contact blocks 55 include contact blocks 55a and 55b. The first heating member 53a, the second heating member 54a, and the contact block 55a are members for heating the yarn Ya. The first heating member 53b, the second heating member 54b, and the contact block 55b are members for heating the yarn Yb. The member for heating the yarn Ya and the member for heating the yarn Yb are arranged, for example, on opposite sides of the heat source 51 in the longitudinal direction of the machine.

The member for heating the yarn Ya will now be described. The first heating member 53a is a long member extending in a first direction along the heat source 51. The material (first material) constituting the first heating member 53 is a metal material with a high volumetric specific heat, such as brass. Volumetric specific heat is a value obtained by multiplying the specific heat (heat capacity per unit mass) of a material by the density (mass per unit volume) of that material. As shown in FIG. 4, the first heating member 53a has, for example, a substantially L-shaped cross section perpendicular to the first direction. However, the shape of the first heating member 53a is not limited to this. The first heating member 53a is disposed on one side of the heat source 51 in the machine frame longitudinal direction. The first heating member 53a is disposed, for example, spaced apart from the heat source 51.

Like the first heating member 53a, the second heating member 54a is an elongated member extending in the first direction along the heat source 51. The second heating member 54a is made of a second material (details of which will be described later) that has a lower volumetric specific heat than the first material. As shown in FIG. 4 , the second heating member 54a has, for example, a generally rectangular cross section perpendicular to the first direction. The second heating member 54a is disposed on one side of the heat source 51 in the longitudinal direction of the machine base. The second heating member 54a is disposed so as to be in contact with the heat source 51. The second heating member 54a is also disposed so as to be in contact with the first heating member 53a. In the cross section perpendicular to the first direction, the second heating member 54a, together with the second heating member 54b, is disposed so as to surround the heat source 51. The second heating member 54a is disposed, for example, between the heat source 51 and the first heating member 53a in the longitudinal direction of the machine base. The arrangement of the second heating member 54a will be described in more detail below.

The second heating element 54a, together with the first heating element 53a, forms an inverted U-shaped slit 56 (slit 56a). The slit 56a is open on the other side in the height direction. The contact block 55a is housed within the slit 56a. The slit 56a functions as a storage space for the contact block 55a and also as a yarn traveling space Sa through which the yarn Ya travels. In other words, in this embodiment, the second heating element 54a forms the yarn traveling space Sa together with the first heating element 53a.

The contact block 55a is a long member made of, for example, stainless steel. The contact block 55a extends in at least the first direction. The contact block 55a is machined, for example. The contact block 55a is disposed in the yarn traveling space S (yarn traveling space Sa) through which the yarn Ya travels. The contact block 55a has a contact surface 57 (contact surface 57a) that faces at least the other side in the height direction and with which the yarn Ya comes into contact. In other words, the first heating element 53a and the second heating element 54a are disposed so as not to come into contact with the traveling yarn Ya (i.e., so as to be spaced apart from the traveling yarn Ya) (see FIG. 4). The contact surface 57a extends in at least the first direction (see FIG. 3(d)). The contact surface 57a is gently curved in a generally U-shape, for example, in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the machine frame (see FIG. 3(d)). The contact block 55a is fitted into the slit 56a. That is, the contact block 55a is in contact with, for example, at least one of the first heating member 53a and the second heating member 54a. It is preferable that the contact block 55a be in contact with at least the second heating member 54a. More precisely, the contact block 55a is shorter than the slit 56a in the longitudinal direction of the machine base by, for example, 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. As a result, a small gap may be formed between the contact block 55a and the first heating member 53a or the second heating member 54a in the longitudinal direction of the machine base. It is most preferable that the contact block 55a be in contact with the second heating member 54a over its entire length in the first direction. The contact block 55a is heated by heat conducted via the first heating member 53a and the second heating member 54a.

Next, we will explain the members for heating the yarn Yb. The first heating member 53b, like the first heating member 53a, is made of the first material. The first heating member 53b is arranged on the other side of the heat source 51 in the longitudinal direction of the machine base. The first heating member 53b is arranged, for example, spaced apart from the heat source 51. The second heating member 54b, like the second heating member 54a, is made of the second material. The second heating member 54b is arranged on the other side of the heat source 51 in the longitudinal direction of the machine base. The second heating member 54b is arranged so as to be in contact with the heat source 51. The second heating member 54b is also arranged so as to be in contact with the first heating member 53b. The second heating member 54b, together with the second heating member 54a, is arranged, for example, so as to be sandwiched between the first heating member 53a and the first heating member 53b in the longitudinal direction of the machine base. The second heating element 54b, together with the first heating element 53b, forms a slit 56b similar to the slit 56a. A contact block 55b is housed within the slit 56b. The slit 56b functions as a space for housing the contact block 55b and also as a yarn traveling space Sb through which the yarn Yb travels. The contact block 55b is a long member made of, for example, stainless steel. The contact block 55b is machined similarly to the contact block 55a. The contact block 55b has a contact surface 57b, similar to the contact surface 57a, with which the yarn Yb comes into contact. In other words, the first heating element 53b and the second heating element 54b are positioned so as not to come into contact with the traveling yarn Yb (i.e., so as to be spaced apart from the traveling yarn Yb) (see FIG. 4). The contact block 55b is fitted into the slit 56b. In other words, the contact block 55b is in contact with at least one of the first heating element 53b and the second heating element 54b.

(Details of the second heating member)
Next, the second heating member 54 (representatively, the second heating member 54a) will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3B and 4 . The second heating member 54a is disposed, for example, so as to be sandwiched between the heat source 51 and the yarn traveling space Sa in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction. "Between the heat source 51 and the yarn traveling space Sa" can be defined, for example, as follows. That is, in a predetermined cross section perpendicular to the first direction (see, for example, FIG. 4 ), a plurality of imaginary line segments (e.g., line segments L1, L2, L3, etc.) can be drawn to connect a point Pa on the contact surface 57a that is furthest to one side in the height direction (i.e., the point farthest from the entrance of the slit 56a in the height direction in the cross section shown in FIG. 4 ) with the outer surface 51s of the heat source 51. When at least one of these line segments passes through the second heating member 54a, it is defined that "the second heating member 54a is disposed between the heat source 51 and the yarn traveling space Sa." The same definition can be applied to "between the heat source 51 and the yarn traveling space Sb."

As in this embodiment, the second heating element 54 is preferably in contact with the heat source 51, the first heating element 53, and the contact block 55. Furthermore, the ratio of the heat capacity of the second heating element 54 to the heat capacity of the first heating element 53 is preferably, for example, 20% or more and 40% or less.

The second material constituting the second heating member 54 will now be described in detail. As described above, the volumetric specific heat of the second material is smaller than that of the first material. More specifically, a C/C composite (carbon fiber reinforced carbon composite material) is suitable as the second material. A C/C composite is a composite material of carbon fiber and graphite. For example, a known pitch-based carbon fiber is used as the carbon fiber. As shown in FIG. 5 , in this embodiment, the volumetric specific heat of brass used as the first material is 3.35 J/(cm ³ ·K) at 20°C. In contrast, the volumetric specific heat of the C/C composite used as the second material is 1.12 J/(cm ³ ·K) at 20°C. Therefore, the second heating member 54 can be heated more quickly than the first heating member 53. In other words, if the temperature of the yarn traveling space S or the like drops due to an external disturbance, the temperature of the yarn traveling space S or the like can be quickly raised via the second heating member 54. Therefore, even if the temperature of the yarn traveling space S or the like drops, the temperature of the yarn traveling space S or the like can be quickly increased.

In addition, in this embodiment, the C/C composite used as the second material is oriented. More specifically, a large number of carbon fibers are oriented in a predetermined X direction. In this embodiment, the X direction is, for example, the first direction. This results in anisotropic thermal conductivity of the second material. As shown in FIG. 5 , the thermal conductivity of the C/C composite in the first direction (X direction) is, for example, 180 W/(m·K) at 20°C. On the other hand, the thermal conductivity of the C/C composite in the Y direction (e.g., the machine table longitudinal direction, height direction, etc.), which is perpendicular to the X direction, is, for example, 80 W/(m·K) at 20°C, which is lower than the thermal conductivity in the X direction. Note that in this embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the C/C composite in the first direction is at least higher than the thermal conductivity of brass (e.g., 60 W/(m·K) at 20°C). The second heating element 54 made of this second material can uniformly heat the material in the first direction.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the C/C composite (80 W/(m·K) as described above) is higher than the thermal conductivity of brass (60 W/(m·K) as described above) in any direction perpendicular to the first direction. In other words, the following holds: In a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the first direction (see FIG. 4), for example, the direction of line segment L3 connecting point Pa and the outer surface 51s of the heat source 51 over the shortest distance is defined as the second direction. Line segment L3 corresponds to the "predetermined imaginary line extending from the heat source toward the yarn traveling space" in this invention. This configuration allows heat to be quickly transferred from the heat source 51 to the yarn traveling space Sa, etc. Therefore, the temperature of the yarn traveling space Sa, etc. can be quickly increased. Similarly, the temperature of the yarn traveling space Sb, etc. can also be quickly increased.

In this embodiment, it is particularly preferable for the first heating device 13 to heat the running yarn Y while it is in contact with the contact surface 57, with the heating temperature set to a predetermined temperature of, for example, 230°C or higher and 350°C or lower. In this temperature range, the heating efficiency of the yarn Y can be improved compared to conventional heating devices (not shown). Of course, the heating temperature of the first heating device 13 may be set to a temperature lower than 230°C or higher than 350°C.

As described above, by using a material with a relatively high volumetric specific heat as the first material constituting the first heating element 53, it is possible to suppress to some extent the temperature drop of the heating element 52 due to disturbances. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second heating element 54, which has a low volumetric specific heat, can be heated more quickly than the first heating element 53. This allows the yarn traveling space S and the like to be heated quickly via the second heating element 54, which is disposed between the heat source 51 and the yarn traveling space S. Therefore, this rapid heating can suppress the temperature drop of the yarn traveling space S and the like due to disturbances. Furthermore, even if the temperature of the yarn traveling space S and the like drops due to disturbances, the yarn traveling space S and the like can be heated quickly.

In addition, the second heating element 54 is in contact with the heat source 51. This allows the heat generated by the heat source 51 to be quickly transferred to the second heating element 54. Therefore, the temperature of the second heating element 54 can be raised effectively.

The second heating element 54, together with the first heating element 53, forms the yarn traveling space S. Therefore, the second heating element 54 can effectively raise the temperature of the yarn traveling space S, etc.

Furthermore, the second heating member 54 is in contact with the first heating member 53. Therefore, the first heating member 53 can be quickly heated via the second heating member 54. In this case, manufacturing costs can be reduced compared to, for example, a case in which a heat source (not shown) for heating the first heating member 53 is provided separately from the heat source 51 and the second heating member 54 is positioned away from the first heating member 53.

Furthermore, the ratio of the heat capacity of the second heating element 54 to the heat capacity of the first heating element 53 is between 20% and 40%. In this way, the heat capacity of the second heating element 54 is neither too large nor too small compared to the heat capacity of the first heating element 53. This makes the heating section 52 somewhat resistant to external disturbances, and allows the temperature of the yarn traveling space S, etc. to be raised quickly.

The second material that makes up the second heating member 54 also contains a fibrous material. This allows the thermal conductivity of the second material to be anisotropic. Therefore, heat can be transferred very quickly, particularly in the desired direction.

The fiber material is carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is a lightweight material with high thermal conductivity. Therefore, heat can be transferred very quickly in the desired direction. This also reduces the weight of the first heating device 13.

The carbon fiber is a pitch-based fiber. Pitch-based carbon fiber and PAN-based carbon fiber are commonly known types of carbon fiber. Generally, pitch-based carbon fiber has a higher thermal conductivity than PAN-based carbon fiber. Therefore, by using pitch-based carbon fiber as the carbon fiber, the thermal conductivity of the second material can be further increased.

Furthermore, by using a composite material of carbon fiber and graphite as the second material, the thermal conductivity of the second material can be further increased.

Furthermore, the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in the first direction than the first material. This allows heat to be quickly transferred in the first direction via the second heating element 54. Therefore, temperature variations in the yarn traveling space S, etc. in the first direction can be suppressed.

Furthermore, the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in the second direction than the first material. This allows heat to be quickly transferred from the heat source 51 to the yarn traveling space S, etc. via the second heating element 54. Therefore, the temperature of the yarn traveling space S, etc. can be quickly raised.

The heating unit 52 also has a contact block 55. In a configuration in which the contact block 55 is provided, as in this embodiment, the temperature of the second heating member 54 can be raised quickly, thereby effectively raising the temperature of the contact block 55.

In addition, the contact block 55 is in contact with the second heating element 54. Therefore, the temperature of the contact block 55 can be effectively increased by heat conduction between the contact block 55 and the second heating element 54, which is heated quickly.

Furthermore, by performing false twisting using a false twisting machine 1 equipped with a first heating device 13, fluctuations in the heating temperature required to process the yarn Y due to external disturbances can be suppressed. Therefore, fluctuations in the quality of the yarn Y processed by the false twisting machine 1 can be suppressed.

Next, we will explain modifications to the above embodiment. However, parts with the same configuration as the above embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted as appropriate.

(1) In the above embodiment, the carbon fibers contained in the C/C composite, which is the second material, are oriented in the first direction. However, this is not limited to this. For example, in the second heating element 54a, the carbon fibers may be oriented in the second direction. Also, in the second heating element 54b, the carbon fibers may be oriented in a direction from the heat source 51 toward the yarn traveling space Sb, etc. In this case, heat can be transferred very quickly from the heat source 51 to the yarn traveling space S, etc.

(2) In the above embodiments, the carbon fibers contained in the second material are pitch-based fibers. However, this is not limited to this. The carbon fibers may be, for example, well-known PAN-based carbon fibers.

(3) In the above embodiments, the second material is a C/C composite (a composite material of carbon fiber and graphite). However, this is not limited to this. The second material may be, for example, CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic), which is a composite material of carbon fiber and resin (e.g., epoxy resin). CFRP is less expensive than C/C composite, so using CFRP as the second material can prevent increases in the manufacturing costs of the first heating device 13.

(4) In the above embodiments, the second material contains carbon fiber as a fiber material. However, this is not limited to this. Materials other than carbon fiber may also be used as the fiber material.

(5) In the above embodiments, the carbon fibers contained in the C/C composite are oriented in a specific X direction. However, this is not limited to this. The carbon fibers do not have to be oriented in a specific direction (i.e., they may be oriented randomly).

(6) In the above-described embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the second material is higher than that of the first material in both the first and second directions. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the thermal conductivity of the second material may be higher than that of the first material in only one of the first and second directions. Alternatively, the thermal conductivity of the second material may be lower than that of the first material. The second material may only have a lower volumetric specific heat than the first material. As an example, the first heating element 53 may be made of aluminum. As shown in FIG. 6( a), the volumetric specific heat of aluminum (first material) is 2.43 J/(cm ³ ·K) at 20°C. Even in this case, the volumetric specific heat of the C/C composite (second material) is lower than that of aluminum. On the other hand, the thermal conductivity of aluminum (first material) is 204 W/(m·K) at 20°C, which is higher than the thermal conductivity of the C/C composite (second material) in both directions.

(7) The combination of the first material and the second material is not limited to the above. For example, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the first material may be brass and the second material may be aluminum. In this case, the volumetric specific heat of the second material is lower than that of the first material, and the thermal conductivity of the second material is higher than that of the first material. Aluminum has superior heat resistance compared to C/C composites. When a material with such excellent heat resistance is used in the heating section 52, the heating temperature can be set higher. In this case, the first heating device 13 may be a non-contact heating device (not shown), such as that described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-146640. In a non-contact heating device, instead of the contact block 55, multiple yarn guides (not shown) are provided, spaced apart from each other in the first direction. Each yarn guide is not a component for directly heating the yarn Y, but rather a component for simply guiding the yarn Y. In a non-contact heating device, the yarn Y is primarily heated by the heated air in the yarn traveling space S.

(8) In the above embodiments, the first heating device 13 is configured to heat two yarns Y. However, this is not limited to this. A first heating device (not shown) configured to heat three or more yarns Y may be provided. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7, for example, a first heating device 13A configured to heat one yarn Y may be provided. Compared to the heating unit 52 (see FIG. 4, etc.), the heating section 52A of the first heating device 13A may simply be configured without the first heating member 53b and contact block 55b. Alternatively, the first heating device 13A may be provided with a first heating member 61 made of the first material instead of the second heating member 54b.

(9) In the above embodiments, the second heating member 54 is in contact with the heat source 51 and the contact block 55. However, this is not limited to this. The second heating member 54 may be in contact with only one of the heat source 51 and the contact block 55, or may be in contact with neither the heat source 51 nor the contact block 55. In this case, only the first heating member 53 may be in contact with the heat source 51 and/or the contact block 55. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the second heating member 54 is in contact with the first heating member 53, but this is not limited to this. For example, a heat source (not shown) that heats the first heating member 53 may be provided separately from the heat source 51, and the second heating member 54 may be positioned apart from the first heating member 53.

Also, for example, only a portion of the contact block 55 in the first direction may be in contact with the second heating member 54. However, in this case, the heating efficiency of the contact block 55 is lower than in a configuration in which the contact block 55 is in contact with the second heating member 54 over the entire length in the first direction.

Alternatively, neither the first heating member 53 nor the second heating member 54 may be in contact with the contact block 55. However, in this case, the heating efficiency of the contact block 55 will be low. The heating efficiency of the contact block 55 increases in the following order: First, a configuration in which at least the second heating member 54 is in contact with the contact block 55 has the highest heating efficiency. Second, a configuration in which only the first heating member 53 is in contact with the contact block 55 has the second highest heating efficiency. Third, a configuration in which neither the first heating member 53 nor the second heating member 54 is in contact with the contact block 55 has the lowest heating efficiency. If two or more of the first to third configurations are unintentionally mixed among the multiple heating units 52, variations in the heating efficiency of the contact block 55 may occur among the multiple heating units 52. For this reason, it is desirable to standardize the multiple heating units 52 and the multiple first heating devices 13 to one of the first to third configurations as much as possible.

(10) In the above embodiments, the ratio of the heat capacity of the second heating element 54 to the heat capacity of the first heating element 53 was set to 20% or more and 40% or less. However, this is not limited to this. For example, this ratio may be less than 20% or greater than 40%.

(11) In the above-described embodiments, the contact surface 57 is curved in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the machine base. However, this is not limited to this. The contact surface 57 may be, for example, substantially linear in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the machine base.

(12) In the above-described embodiments, the first heating device 13 and the first heating device 13A have contact blocks 55. However, this is not limited to this. Instead of the contact blocks 55, a stainless steel plate (not shown) processed into an inverted U-shape in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction may be provided as a contact member (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-194631).

(13) The contact member (contact block 55 or the above-mentioned SUS plate) may be configured to be detachable from the heating unit 52. This allows the contact member to be temporarily removed from the heating unit 52, significantly improving the efficiency of maintenance such as cleaning of the contact member.

(14) In the above embodiments, the slit 56 is formed by both the first heating element 53 and the second heating element 54. However, this is not limited to this. The slit 56 may be formed by only one of the first heating element 53 and the second heating element 54. In other words, the first heating element 53 may form the entire slit 56. Alternatively, the second heating element 54 may form the entire slit 56.

(15) In the above-described embodiments, the heat source 51 includes a sheathed heater. However, this is not limited to this. Instead of the heat source 51, a heat source (not shown) configured to heat the heating unit 52 using, for example, a heat medium may be provided.

(16) The configuration of the first heating device 13 described above may be applied to the second heating device 19. Furthermore, the first heating device 13 described above is not limited to the false twisting machine 1, and may also be applied to known false twisting machines (not shown) having other configurations. For example, the present invention may be applied to the false twisting machine (not shown) described in JP 2009-74219 A. This false twisting machine is configured to be able to combine two yarns to form a single yarn. This false twisting machine is configured to be able to wind a single combined yarn or two uncombined yarns onto a single cradle. For example, the present invention may be applied to such a false twisting machine. Alternatively, the first heating device 13 may be applied to yarn processing machines that process a traveling yarn (not shown), such as a known air processing machine (not shown), in addition to false twisting machines.

1. False twisting machine (yarn processing machine)
11 First feed roller (yarn feeding device)
13 First heating device (heating device)
15 False twist device (yarn deformation device)
51 Heat source 52 Heating unit 53 First heating member 54 Second heating member 55 Contact block (contact member)
S Yarn running space Y Yarn

Claims (38)

A heat source and
a heating unit configured to be heated by the heat source and to form a yarn traveling space extending at least in a predetermined first direction,
The heating unit is
a first heating member made of a first material and arranged so as not to come into contact with the yarn traveling in the yarn traveling space;
a second heating member that is arranged at least between the heat source and the yarn traveling space in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction, and that is arranged so as not to come into contact with the yarn traveling in the yarn traveling space, and that is made of a second material having a lower volumetric specific heat than the first material;
the second heating member is in contact with the first heating member;
A heating device, characterized in that the ratio of the heat capacity of the second heating member to the heat capacity of the first heating member is 20% or more and 40% or less . The heating device described in claim 1, characterized in that the second heating element is in contact with the heat source. The heating device of claim 1, wherein the second material includes a fibrous material. 4. The heating device according to claim 3 , wherein the fiber material is carbon fiber. 5. The heating device according to claim 4 , wherein the carbon fiber is a pitch-based fiber. 5. The heating device according to claim 4 , wherein the second material is a composite material of the carbon fiber and graphite. 5. The heating device according to claim 4 , wherein the second material is a composite material of the carbon fiber and a resin. the second heating member is disposed so as to extend in at least the first direction;
8. The heating device according to claim 1, wherein the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in at least the first direction than the first material. When a direction in which a predetermined imaginary straight line extending from the heat source toward the yarn traveling space in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction extends is defined as a second direction,
8. The heating device according to claim 1, wherein the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in at least the second direction than the first material. When a direction in which a predetermined imaginary straight line extending from the heat source toward the yarn traveling space in a cross section perpendicular to the first direction extends is defined as a second direction,
The heating device according to claim 8 , wherein the second material has a higher thermal conductivity in at least the second direction than the first material. The heating unit is
8. The heating device according to claim 1, further comprising a contact member extending in at least the first direction for contacting the yarn. The heating unit is
9. The heating device according to claim 8 , further comprising a contact member extending in at least the first direction for contacting the yarn. The heating unit is
10. The heating device according to claim 9 , further comprising a contact member extending in at least the first direction for contacting the yarn. The heating unit is
11. The heating device according to claim 10 , further comprising a contact member extending in at least the first direction for contacting the yarn. The heating device according to claim 11 , wherein the contact member is in contact with the second heating member. The heating device according to claim 12 , wherein the contact member is in contact with the second heating member. The heating device according to claim 13 , wherein the contact member is in contact with the second heating member. The heating device according to claim 14 , wherein the contact member is in contact with the second heating member. The heating device according to claim 11 , wherein the contact member is configured to be detachable from the heating unit. 13. The heating device according to claim 12 , wherein the contact member is configured to be detachable from the heating unit. 14. The heating device according to claim 13 , wherein the contact member is configured to be detachable from the heating unit. 15. The heating device according to claim 14 , wherein the contact member is configured to be detachable from the heating unit. A heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. The heating device according to claim 8 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. The heating device according to claim 9 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. The heating device according to claim 10 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. The heating device according to claim 11 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 12 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 13 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 14 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 15 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 16 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 17 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 18 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 19 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 20 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 21 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling. A heating device according to claim 22 ;
a yarn deformation imparting device that imparts deformation to the yarn;
a yarn feeding device configured to feed the yarn to the heating device and the yarn deformation imparting device,
A yarn processing machine configured to process the yarn while it is traveling.