Tension variation reduction in high speed cone winding

The research work was concened with the design of tension compensators for spinning-winding machines for the purposes of reducing winding tension variation during high speed cone winding. Initially, the research was directed to investigating the 'winding error', i.e. the difference between yarn supply and demand, which was the main cause of winding tension variation. Mathematical models were established to analyse the winding velocity variation and yarn path length variation. Several methods have been investigated to reduce winding tension variation and to develop tension compensators. These include using a servo motor to keep constant winding velocity and using a curved distribution bar to keep constant path length. Two promising tension compensators were selected for detailed investigation. they were a mechanical compensator and a mechatronic compensator.Based on the analysis of 'winding error', A multiple bar mechanism was devised, analysed and optimised to provide tension compensation. Further consideration has been given to a microprocessor controlled mechanism, that works according to predetermined look-up tables and sensor signals to reduce winding tension variation. The computer simulation of yarn winding process, the software design for the optimisation of mechanical compensator and the control of mechatronic compensator, and the results of winding tension experimentation are also presented in the thesis.