Hayes-albion Corporation

Paul Christiansen

George K Roshon

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for controlling selectively the sliver feeding rates of the carding mechanisms of a multi-feed high pile fabric circular knitting machine, whereby the sliver feeding rates harmonize continuously with the fabric pattern for which the machine has been programmed. The selected pattern is incorporated into the fabric during knitting by electronically controlled needle selection. The knitting pattern data is stored in digital form in a computer type memory, such as a magnetic disc, tape or drum, or equivalent digital data storage means. The rate of sliver feed at each sliver feeding station is determined continuously during knitting, and adjusted as required, by the pattern data controlling the needle selection at that particular station, to ensure that the sliver input to the machine harmonizes with the demand of the needles for sliver fibers in accordance with the knitting pattern selected. The sliver feed rate also is controlled in accordance with the speed of rotation of the needle cylinder and the fabric density desired.

Method and apparatus for knitting patterned sliver high pile fabric

A control for a circular knitting machine having a magnetic disc memory for storing data descriptive of a pattern to be knitted, position indicating means for indicating the rotational position of the knitting machine, electronic circuitry for retrieving segments of data from the magnetic disc memory as needed, and electromagnetic actuators for steering the knitting meedles to knit or non-knit positions in accordance with the retrieved data.

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Novelty, OH, United States of America

Paul Christiansen