TECFINICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention concerns the field of spinning frames, for example ring spinning frames, and concerns a spinning frame comprising an improved suction system capable of sucking a broken thread in an advantageous manner.

More particularly, the present invention concerns a suction system for spinning frames capable of varying its suction power according to the suction needs, in such a way as to guarantee effective suction when required, while at the same time reducing the disadvantages due to the suction effect when this is not necessary.

DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ART

Figure 1A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame 1000 carried out according to the state of the art. In particular, the spinning frame 1000 comprises a bearing structure 1 100 that provides structural support for one or more of the elements of the spinning frame 1000, which are described below. In other words, the bearing structure 1 100 serves the function of a housing or casing for the spinning frame 1000. Furthermore, the spinning frame 1000 comprises at least two pairs of rollers 121 1, 1212 and 1213, 1214, respectively. Figure 1A shows three pairs of rollers 121 1 and 1212, 1213 and 1214, 1215 and 1216, as this is the most common solution. In each pair of rollers 121 1-1216, at least one first roller is motorized, while the second is driven and set moving by the first roller. For example, in the first pair of rollers 121 1 and 1212, the first roller 121 1 can be motorized in such a way that it moves in the direction indicated by the arrow inside it, while the second roller 1212 is driven due to the friction generated by contact with the first roller 121 1. Even if not represented in the drawings, the rollers 121 1-1216, as well as the corresponding motors (not illustrated) and/or the means for transmitting motion from the motors to the rollers (not illustrated), can be supported by the bearing structure 1 100.

The pairs of rollers 121 1 and 1212, 1213 and 1214, 1215 and 1216 provide a spinning point 1200. The spinning point 1200 serves the function of spinning a first textile element 1221, obtaining a second textile element 1222. The first textile element 1221 can be, for example, a set of fibres called slub. The first textile element 1221 may come from a first collection unit 123 1 that can be, for example, the reel on which it is wound.

In order to perform the spinning operation, at least two of the pairs of rollers 121 1 and 1212, 1213 and 1214, 1215 and 1216 rotate at different speeds. For example, the pair of rollers 1215 and 1216 can rotate at a higher speed than the pair of rollers 1213 and 1214.

Due to the different rotation speeds of the pairs of rollers, the first textile element 1221 is stretched, then, when leaving the rollers, is twisted so that it winds on itself, thus becoming more robust and resistant, and then it is wound on the second collection unit 1232.

Following these operations called spinning operations, the first textile element

1221 becomes a second textile element 1222, which is thinner and/or more robust than the first textile element 1221. The second textile element 1222 can be, for example, a thread or yarn. The second textile element 1222 can be collected by a second collection unit 1232 which can be, for example, a spool or a spindle.

It can be observed that the spinning frame can contain, and generally contains, a plurality of spinning points 1200. Spinning frames with hundreds or more than a thousand spinning points are known. In these cases, each spinning point 1200 corresponds to a first collection unit 1231 and a second collection unit 1232. For the sake of clarity, the description of the present invention refers to just one spinning point 1200.

Since during the spinning operation the textile element 1221, 1222 is stretched, as described above, the textile element 1221, 1222 may be torn, in particular at the level of the pair of rollers 1215- 1216. The part of the textile element 1221 ,

1222 upstream of the tear continues to move downwards as it is driven by the rollers, and thus runs the risk of being wound around one or more of the rollers 121 1- 1216, potentially damaging the rollers themselves and/or creating wound sections whose elimination requires time, as does the successive resetting at work of the spinning point 1200.

Furthermore, following the tearing, if the part of textile element 1221, 1222 moves downwards beyond the rollers, it may affect other spinning points 1200 located nearby, thus producing tears on them.

In order to prevent the above from occurring, a suction device is provided for each spinning point 1200, and comprises a suction element 1401 connected, through a suction pipe 1402, to a suction opening 1301 located in proximity to the textile element 1221 , 1222. In particular, the suction element 1401 can be a suction unit, a pump or a means capable of producing a negative pressure in the suction pipe 1402, which produces an air flow at the level of the suction opening 1301 , directed towards the inside of the opening. This air flow makes it possible to suck the textile element 1221 , 1222 upstream of the tear, thus avoiding the problems described above, as schematically shown in Figure I B.

In particular, as can be seen in Figure I B, while the part of the second textile element 1222 located downstream of the tear is collected in the second collection unit 1232, the part of the first textile element 1221 and/or of the second textile element 1222 located upstream of the tear is sucked inside the suction opening 1301 and thus inside the suction pipe 1402. Collection means (not illustrated) ensure that the first textile element 1221 and/or the second textile element 1222 sucked inside the suction pipe 1402 is collected and does not interfere with the operation of the suction element 1401. In this manner, it can be avoided that following the tearing the first textile element 1221 and/or the second textile element 1222 remain wound on one or more of the rollers 121 1 - 1216, or produce tears in the spinning points 1200 located nearby during their uncontrolled advance.

Such a solution, however, poses a series of drawbacks.

In particular, in a spinning frame made up of hundreds or even more than a thousand spinning points, the total suction effect generated by the sum of the individual sucking operations performed for each one of the spindles requires a considerable amount of energy. In particular, there can be an embodiment equipped with a plurality of suction elements 1401 , potentially one for each spinning point 1200, or a single suction element 1401 connected to a plurality of suction pipes 1402 and suction openings 1301. In both cases, the total power used by the suction system is considerable. By way of example, in a spinning frame comprising more than a thousand spinning points 1200, electric power in the order of 10 kW is used to ensure sufficient suction at each spinning point 1200.

Furthermore, the continuous operation of the suction system causes considerable noise during the operation of the spinning frame 1000.

Due to leaks in the suction pipes 1402, the suction effect may be different in the various suction openings 1301 and this does not ensure that the textile elements 1221 , 1222 are sucked after the generation of the tears.

Improper suction may cause the suction pipes 1402 and the suction openings 1301 to become clogged.

The patent EP 2233618 discloses a spinning frame comprising a suction system provided with a movable limiting device usually located in front of the suction opening. This makes it possible to partially reduce the necessary suction power, as the limiting device reduces the flow of sucked air, and therefore consumption by the suction system. Nevertheless, a considerable suction power however needs to be guaranteed since, as can be seen in Figure 2B, it is necessary to guarantee that the residual suction power, in the presence of the limiting device, be sufficient to suck a small thread. Furthermore, the residual suction power must also be sufficient to start sucking a bigger thread, as can be seen in Figures 2C and 2D. In this case, an additional problem arises since, as can be seen in Figure 2D, the suction power needs to be both sufficiently high, for the reasons explained above, and not excessively high, in such a way as not to block the limiting device in front of the suction opening at the moment when it is necessary to suck a bigger thread, as shown in Figure 2D.

This problem, furthermore, worsens when the spinning frame comprises a plurality of spinning points. In particular, since it is not possible to know how many spinning points will simultaneously present a tear, it is very difficult to calculate the average suction pressure that will be provided at the level of the suction openings, since this depends on how many suction openings are covered by the limiting device and how many are not at a given instant. Since it is impossible to determine the average value of the negative pressure at the level of the individual suction openings, it becomes extremely complicated to guarantee at each instant an average pressure level that falls within the useful interval described above.

Finally, in the case where the torn thread is too large to be sucked using only the residual suction power, the system disclosed in the patent document EP 2233618 does not make it possible to start sucking the thread, which, in turn, would guarantee the opening of the limiting device and the complete suction of the large thread.

It is thus one object of the present invention to provide a suction system that is better than those known in the art. Particular objects of the present invention are intended to obtain a suction system with reduced energy consumption and/or reduced noise impact and/or facilitated operation.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention is based on the general concept that the suction power can be controlled through an at least partially electronic process rather than a merely mechanical process.

The introduction of electronic control makes it possible to obtain open ring or closed ring control systems, which in turn make it possible to control the suction power in such a way that the suction power available is always sufficient to 5 guarantee that any torn textile elements can be sucked while at the same time reducing the energy costs associated with the suction device and/or reducing the noise generated by the latter.

An embodiment of the present invention can be related to a suction control system for a spinning frame comprising a suction element, a suction pipe

10 connected to a plurality of suction openings respectively of a plurality of spinning points, the system comprising: a plurality of sensors located at the respective spinning points and suited to emit signals indicating the presence or absence of tears at the spinning points and possibly their position along the spinning frame, and a controller connected to the sensors and configured in such i s a way as to control the suction power of the suction element based on the signals emitted by the sensors.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to control the suction power in an targeted manner, in such a way as to reduce the consumption associated with excessive suction.

0 In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to increase the suction power of the suction element when the number of signals indicating the presence of tears emitted by the sensors increases.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to ensure sufficient suction, with any number of tears.

5 In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element so as to keep it at a minimum level in the absence of signals emitted by the sensors to indicate the presence of tears.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to ensure that the ducts of the0 suction pipe are clean.

In some embodiments, the minimum level is sufficient to guarantee the suction of a torn textile element by a predetermined number of spinning points.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to know in advance the suction power necessary for a predetermined number of tears, in such a way as to be5 always ready before the tearing occurs, providing a suction power value that is always more than sufficient with minimum energy costs.

In some embodiments, the spinning frame may also comprise a second suction element, and the controller may be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the second suction element based on the signals emitted by the sensors.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to distribute the suction needs among several suction elements.

In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element and of the second suction element independently.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to control the suction elements in a flexible and effective manner.

In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element and of the second suction element based on the respective distance from the one or more sensors indicating the presence of tears with respect to the suction element and/or the second suction element. Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to supply to the suction element that is nearer to the tear with a larger amount of the required suction power increase.

An embodiment of the present invention can, furthermore, concern a suction control system for spinning frames comprising a suction element, a suction pipe connected to a plurality of suction openings respectively of a plurality of spinning points, the system comprising: a pressure sensor suited to emit a signal indicating a pressure value measured inside the suction pipe, and a controller connected to the pressure sensor and configured so as to control the suction power of the suction element based on the signal received from the pressure sensor.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to ensure a suction power value suitable for the requirements of the suction system, at any moment.

In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element so as to equal the signal received from the pressure sensor with a predetermined value.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to obtain a control system operating as a closed ring, in a simple and effective manner.

In some embodiments, the suction control system may furthermore comprise a plurality of sensors suited to emit signals indicating the presence or absence of tears at the level of the spinning points, and possibly their position along the spinning frame.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to take in consideration also the signals of the sensors for controlling the suction system.

In some embodiments, the spinning frame may also comprise a second suction element and the system may also comprise a second pressure sensor suited to emit a signal indicating a pressure value measured inside the suction pipe, and wherein the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element and/or of the second suction element based on the signal received from the pressure sensor and/or based on the signal received from the second pressure sensor.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to use the signals received from one or more pressure sensors to pilot one or more suction elements in a suitable manner.

In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element and of the second suction element independently.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to control each individual suction element in an effective manner.

In some embodiments, the controller can be configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element and of the second suction element based on the respective distance from the pressure sensor and/or the second pressure sensor with respect to the suction element and/or with respect to the second suction element.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to adjust the suction elements in a convenient manner, based on the information relating to the position of any tear that caused the decrease of the measured pressure value.

In some embodiments, the suction control system may also comprise a plurality of suction control elements located at the respective spinning points, configured in such a way as to completely or partially close the respective suction openings when there are no tears or to open the respective suction openings in the presence of a tear.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to advantageously control the suction power in such a way as to provide suction power where required. In some embodiments, the suction control elements can be controlled by the respective sensors.

Thanks to this implementation, it is advantageously possible to control the suction control elements in a simple and effective manner.

In some embodiments, the suction control system may also comprise a plurality of cutting elements located at the respective spinning points, wherein the cutting elements are controlled by the respective sensors.

Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to reduce the suction needs by cutting the torn textile element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be clarified in the following description of some of its embodiments which are illustrated in the attached drawings. It should however be noticed that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings; on the contrary, all those variants, modifications or combinations of the embodiments illustrated and described herein that are clear, obvious and immediate for the expert in the art fall within the scope and sphere of application of the present invention. In particular, in the attached drawings:

- Figure 1A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to the state of the art;

- Figure IB schematically shows the operation of the spinning frame and of the respective suction device illustrated in Figure 1A;

- Figure 2A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figures 2B and 2C schematically show an enlarged view and the operation of part of the embodiment shown in Figure 2A;

- Figure 3A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figure 4A schematically shows a side sectional view of elements of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figures 4B and 4C schematically show a front view and a top view, respectively, of the embodiment shown in Figure 4A;

- Figure 4D schematically shows the operation of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4A;

- Figure 5A schematically shows a side sectional view of elements of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figures 5B and 5C schematically show a front view and a top view, respectively, of the embodiment shown in Figure 5A;

- Figure 5D schematically shows a variant of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5A;

- Figures 6A and 6B schematically show two side sectional views of elements of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figure 7A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figures 7B and 7C schematically show an enlarged view and the operation of part of the embodiment shown in Figure 7A;

- Figure 8A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figures 8B and 8C schematically show an enlarged view and the operation of part of the embodiment shown in Figure 8A;

- Figures 9A and 9B schematically show two side sectional views of elements of a spinning frame and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figure 10 schematically shows a type of control system operating as an open ring suited to control the components of a spinning frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figure 1 1A schematically shows a type of control system operating as an open ring suited to control the components of a spinning frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figure 1 IB schematically shows the possible operation of an embodiment of the control system of Figure 1 1A;

- Figure 12 schematically shows a type of control system operating as a closed ring suited to control the components of a spinning frame according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT

INVENTION

Figure 2A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame 2000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In particular, the spinning frame 2000 differs from the known spinning frame 1000 due to the presence of a suction control element 2304. The suction control element 2304 can be made in any manner suited to partially or completely reduce the suction power at the opening 1301 of the suction pipe 1402. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2A, the suction control element 2304 is preferably constituted by a throttle valve, however the present invention is not limited to this implementation and other types of valve, for example a ball valve, or a gate valve, or other known types of valve can be used. In general, any type of mechanical element that makes it possible to control the opening or closing of the suction opening 1301 can be used as a suction control element 2304.

An actuator 2305, schematically shown in Figure 2A at the centre of the throttle valve disc, makes it possible to move the suction control element 2304 to any position between a completely open position, as shown in Figure 2B, and a completely closed position, as shown in Figure 2C.

In particular, when there are no tears in the first or in the second textile element 1221 , 1222, the suction control element 2304 partially or completely limits the suction power at the level of the opening 1301.

In other words, the valve is partially or completely closed, as shown in Figure 2C.

When a tear is produced, the suction control element 2304 is activated in such a way as to increase the suction power at the level of the opening 1301, preferably to the maximum value.

In other words, the suction control element 2304 is opened partially or completely, as shown in Figure 2B.

In the present description, the word "open ^" can mean both "completely open", as shown in Figure 2B, and "partially open".

Analogously, the word "closed" can mean both "completely closed", as shown in Figure 2C, and "partially closed". Furthermore, the closed condition may be not completely closed, due to manufacturing tolerances in the suction control element 2304, which in any case allow the passage of a minimum quantity of air even in the condition described as completely closed.

The various manners in which the present invention can detect the presence or absence of a tear in the textile element 1221, 1222 are described here below. In general, the present invention can be implemented with any method which makes it possible to detect the presence of a tear.

Even if in the embodiment illustrated herein the opening 1301 is located downstream of the last pair of rollers 1215, 1216, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In alternative embodiments, the opening 1301 may be located in a lower or higher position. In particular, the opening 1301 may be located at the level of the last pair of rollers 1215, 1216, or between the pair of rollers 1215, 1216 and the pair of rollers 1213, 1214, as schematically shown in Figure 3A with reference to the spinning frame 3000. More generally, the opening 1301 may be located in any position that makes it possible to suck the torn textile element in such a way as to prevent the textile element 1221, 1222 from being wound on one or more rollers 121 1-1216. In the embodiment illustrated herein, the opening 1301 is located downstream of the last pair of rollers 1215, 1216, so that it is possible to suck the torn textile element and thus prevent the textile element 1221, 1222 from being wound on one or more rollers 121 1-1216.

In the embodiment illustrated herein, the suction control element 2304 is located on the suction pipe 1402 in proximity to the opening 1301. This configuration provides the advantage that, at the moment when the suction control element 2304 is activated in order to increase the suction power at the level of the opening 1301, the power increase occurs very soon, preferably immediately, as the portion of the suction pipe 1402 between the suction control element 2304 and the opening 1301 is short. However, the present invention is not limited to this case and the suction control element 2304 may be located at any point of the suction pipe 1402.

Mechanical and/or electronic sensors suited to detect the presence of a tear in the textile element are described here below.

Figure 4A schematically shows a side sectional view of elements of a spinning frame 4000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 4B and 4C schematically show a front view and a top view, respectively, of the embodiment shown in Figure 4A. Figure 4D schematically shows the operation of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4A. In particular, the spinning frame 4000 is based on the spinning frame 2000 and differs from the latter due to the presence of the sensor 4305 which, in some embodiments, can also be used as an actuator 2305.

The sensor 4305 is a mechanical sensor, which comprises a rotation axis 4305A 2 of the extension arms 4305B, 4305C connecting the rotation axis 4305A to a feeler 4305D. The shape of the extension arms is not limited to that illustrated in the figure, in fact other shapes allowing the operation of the sensor 4305 can alternatively be implemented, as described here below. For example, a single extension arm, curved or linear, may be implemented between the elements 4305A and 4305D instead of two extension arms 4305B and 4305C.

If there are no tears, the textile element 1221, 1222 is continuous, as shown in Figures 4A, 4B and 4C, and the feeler 4305D is maintained in the shown position by the second textile element 1222. Due to the weight of the feeler 4305D, or more generally of the sensor 4305, the feeler 4305D itself is pushed downwards, following an angular movement centred on the rotation axis 4305 A. Nevertheless, due to the presence of the textile element, the feeler 4305D remains locked in the position illustrated in Figures 4 A, 4B and 4C.

At the moment when the textile element 1221, 1222 is torn, as shown in Figure 4D, the feeler 4305D is not maintained in position by the textile element any longer, as shown in Figure 4A.

Pushed downwards by the weight of the feeler 4305D and/or by its own weight, the sensor 4305 performs a clockwise rotation.

In this manner, it is possible to detect the presence of a tear in the textile element by means of a mechanical sensor 4305.

In addition or as an alternative to the solution described above, in some embodiments the mechanical sensor 4305 is mechanically connected to the suction control element 2304, for example by installing the suction control element 2304 on the rotation axis 4305A.

In this case, also the weight of the suction control element 2304 can be used to move the sensor in the absence of the textile element. For example, the suction control element 2304 may be made in an asymmetric manner, for example with a different shape and/or weight in the different parts of the valve, so as to exert a resultant clockwise rotation force of the mechanical sensor 4305.

For example, in the case of a throttle valve like that illustrated herein, it is possible to make half of the valve shown at the top in Figure 4A so that it is heavier than the half of the valve shown at the bottom in Figure 4A.

This solution offers the advantage that the sensor 4305 does not necessarily need to be made with such a weight as to be able, alone, to actuate the valve or more generally the suction control element 2304.

This allows the sensor 4305, or at least the feeler 4305D, to be made from a wide range of materials, thus allowing the selection of materials suitable for this purpose.

In particular, for example, the feeler 4305D, which is constantly in contact with the textile element, thus needs specific characteristics suited to prevent the feeler itself from wearing or damaging the textile element 1221 , 1222.

When the mechanical sensor 4305 is mechanically connected to the suction control element 2304, in addition to detecting the presence of a tear, it is also advantageously possible to actuate the suction control element 2304 in the presence of a tear.

This, in the presence of a tear, leads to a partial or complete opening of the suction control element 2304, as shown in Figure 4D. In this open position, the suction control element 2304 allows the connection between the inside of the suction pipe 1402 and the opening 1301. Thanks to the movement of the suction control element 2304, the torn textile element is sucked inside the suction pipe 1402, as shown.

On the contrary, in the absence of tears, the feeler 4305D keeps the sensor 4305 in the position illustrated in Figure 4A, thus closing the suction control element 2304. Even if the latter is represented in the completely closed position, the suction control element may be kept in a partially closed position.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A-4D, it is therefore possible to provide a mechanical sensor 4305 whose operation is based on the contact between a feeler 4305D and the textile element 1221 or 1222.

At the moment when this contact is lost, the sensor 4305 moves, possibly causing the suction control element 2304 to move from a closed position, in which suction is partially or completely limited, to an open position, in which suction is partially or completely allowed.

Even if the sensor 4305 provided in the embodiment illustrated herein has been described as having a specific shape, the present invention must not be considered limited to the shape illustrated herein.

More generally, it is possible to adopt any shape of the sensor which, possibly in combination with the shape of the suction control element 2304, generates a moment - angular in the case of a suction control element 2304 with angular movement such as a throttle valve, or linear in the case of a suction control element 2304 with linear movement such as a gate valve.

It will be clear to the expert in the art that various embodiments allow such a moment to be generated, in such a way as to ensure that the sensor 4305, in the absence of the support provided by the untorn textile element to the feeler 4305D, can move and reach the position shown in Figure 4D.

The sensor 4305 is also advantageous because it positions the feeler on the opposite side of the textile element 1221, 1222 with respect to the opening 1301. This position is advantageous as the feeler 4305D cannot be accidentally pushed downwards by the movement of the textile element, causing an undesired movement of the sensor 4305.

On the contrary, in the opposite case, when the feeler 4305D is located on the side of the textile element corresponding to the opening 1301, the movement of the textile element may cause the feeler to be pushed downwards, thus leading to an undesired movement of the sensor 4305 and, possibly, of the suction control element 2304.

It is clear that the sensor 4305 can be provided even if there is no suction control element 2304.

Figure 5A schematically shows a side sectional view of elements of a spinning frame 5000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention, analogously to Figure 4A.

Figures 5B and 5C schematically show a front view and a top view, respectively, of the embodiment shown in Figure 5A, analogously to Figures 4B and 5B.

The spinning frame 5000 is based on the spinning frame 4000, from which it differs due to the presence of the mechanical sensor 5305, which replaces the sensor 4305.

The sensor 5305 differs from the sensor 4305 in that the extension amis 4305B, 4305C are not present on both sides of the sensor 5305, differently from what happens with the sensor 4305. In particular, as can be seen in Figures 5B and 5C, the extension arms are present on one side only, on the left in Figure 5B and at the bottom in Figure 5C.

This facilitates the insertion of the textile element 1221, 1222 behind the feeler 4305D. In particular, while in the case of the sensor 4305 it is necessary to take care to position the textile element 1221 , 1222 correctly with respect to the feeler 4305D before reconnecting the two edges of the textile element 1221 , 1222, or before installing a new textile element in the spinning point 1200, in the present embodiment the shape of the actuator makes it possible to position the textile element with respect to the feeler 4305D at any moment.

The advantage offered by the sensor 5305 over the sensor 4305 consists in that, also in the presence of strong movements of the textile element 1221, 1222, the textile element cannot move out of the region delimited by the elements 4305B, 4305C and 4305D. Nevertheless, in the sensor 4305 this possible inconvenience can be mitigated by providing an adapted shape of the feeler 4305D. For example, a particularly long feeler 4305D reduces the risk of the textile element being able to move from behind the feeler 4305D. Alternatively or in addition to the above, as shown in Figure 5D, a feeler 5305D in the shape of a U open on the side of the element 4305C reduces in a similar manner the risk of the textile element moving from its seat with respect to the feeler 4305D shown in Figure 5C.

It is clear that the sensor 5305 can be provided even if no suction control element 2304 is present.

Figures 6A and 6B schematically show two side sectional views of elements of a spinning frame 6000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In particular, the spinning frame 6000 is based on the spinning frame 4000 and differs from the latter due to the presence of the mechanical sensor 6305, which replaces the sensor 4305. In particular, the sensor 6305 comprises a rotation axis 6305A, a feeler 6305D and an extension arm 6305B that connects the rotation axis 6305A to the feeler 6305D. As in the case of the sensor 4305, the shape of the extension arm is not limited to the one illustrated above.

Also in this case, in some embodiments the rotation axis 6305A can penetrate inside the suction pipe 1402, so as to allow an integral connection of the suction control element 2304 or 6304 with the mechanical sensor 6305.

When the textile element is continuous, meaning when there are no tears, as shown in Figure 6A, the feeler 6305D is kept in the position illustrated thanks to the presence of the textile element. When a tear is produced, the feeler 6305D is no longer kept in position and the sensor 6305 rotates clockwise, possibly causing the suction control element 2304 or 6304 to open in a manner similar to that described with reference to the spinning frame 4000.

In addition or as an alternative to the above, the spinning frame 6000 differs from the spinning frame 4000 due to the shape of the suction control element 6304, which differs from the shape of the suction control element 4304 due to the implementation of the two halves of the valve disc, which are not positioned at 180 degrees with respect to each other, but with an angle that is smaller than 180 degrees. Thanks to this implementation, it is possible to guarantee a closed position, as shown in Figure 6A, however obtaining better suction in the case of an opening 1301 having a curved shape, as that shown in Figure 6B.

In addition or as an alternative to the above, in some embodiments the spinning frame 6000 comprises at least one adjustable stop element 631 1, 6312.

The adjustable stop elements 631 1 , 6312 are mounted on an assembly or supporting element 6310 which is connected in a fixed or movable manner to the suction pipe 1402 and/or to the suction opening 1301 and/or to the structure that closes the suction control element 6304, as illustrated above.

In an embodiment, the stop elements 631 1, 6312 can be screws or pins and the assembly element 6310 can be provided with a plurality of holes 6313, in such a way as to position and/or screw the stop elements 631 1, 6312 in predetermined positions and thus to control the movement of the sensor 6305, and possibly the maximum degree of opening and/or closing of the suction control element 2304, 6304. By way of example, Figure 6A shows an adjustment of the closing stop element 6312 that locks the suction control element 6304 in a position that is not completely closed, thus obtaining an opening 6306. This has the advantage of offering a minimum suction power that, for example, makes it possible to keep the suction pipe 1402 clean and/or to avoid damaging the suction element 1401 , in the case where all the spinning points 1200 are in the closed position.

In addition or as an alternative to the above, the assembly element 6310 can be connected to the rest of the suction element in a movable manner. For example, the assembly element 6310 can move according to the direction schematically illustrated by the arrow 63 14, and the movement can be locked by means of a tightening screw, not illustrated herein. This type of embodiment allows a fine and continuous adjustment of the predetermined region within which the sensor 6305 can move.

Furthermore, in some embodiments the sensor 6305 may comprise an extension arm 6501 connected in an integral manner to the sensor 6305, possibly outside the pipe 1402 on the side opposite the assembly element 6310, and a position sensor 6502. The extension arm 6501 can cooperate with the position sensor 6502 so as to determine the position of the actuator 6305. For example, the extension arm 6501 can be magnetic and the sensor 6502 can be a Hall sensor or a relay, preferably of the Reed type. Alternatively, the extension arm 6501 can be made from any material and the position sensor 6502 can be an optical sensor. Always alternatively, the extension arm 6501 can be omitted and be replaced by the extension arm 6305B and/or, more generally, by any movable element of the mechanical sensor 6305, possibly by rearranging the position sensor 6502 in a convenient manner.

As can be seen in Figure 6A, when in the closed position the extension arm 6501 is misaligned with respect to the sensor 6502. As shown in Figure 6B, when in the open position the extension arm 6501 is aligned with respect to the sensor 6502, and the position sensor 6502 can thus provide a signal to indicate the opening of the suction device.

In this way, it is possible to convert the movement of the mechanical sensor 6305 into an electronic signal emitted by the position sensor 6502. The same system can be applied to the mechanical sensors 4305 or 5305. The signal emitted by the position sensor 6502 can be used for several purposes which are described here below.

Even if the assembly element 6310 and the adjustable stop elements 631 1, 63 12 have been described in relation to the present embodiment, it is clear that they can be implemented also in other embodiments described with reference to the present invention.

It is clear that the electronic control achieved by means of the extension arm 6501 and the position sensor 6502 can be obtained independently of the presence or absence of the suction control element 6304. Therefore, the suction control element 6304 can be absent. Or it can be present, but actuated by an actuator 7305, as described below. Or the suction control element 6304 can be present and actuated directly by the mechanical sensor 6305, through a mechanical connection of the two elements, for example by connecting the suction control element 6304 to the rotation axis 6305A.

Figure 7A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame 7000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 7B and 7C schematically show an enlarged view and the operation of part of the embodiment shown in Figure 7 A.

The spinning frame 7000 is based on the spinning frame 2000, wherein the actuator 2305 is constituted by an electromechanical actuator 7305, preferably an electromagnet. In the figures, the electromechanical actuator 7305 is illustrated only schematically, as different specific variants are possible, such as, for example, an electromagnet, an AC motor, a DC motor, a step-by-step motor, a pneumatic or hydraulic motor, or other solutions that make it possible to actuate the suction control element 2304 mechanically through the actuator 7305 based on an electric signal, if necessary converted by a motor or compressor in the case of a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator. More generally, any element or system that makes it possible to convert an electric signal into a mechanical movement can be used to implement the electromechanical actuator 7305.

In addition to or as an alternative to the above, in some embodiments the spinning frame 7000 also comprises a sensor 7503 suited to monitor the presence of the textile element. Even if in the figure the sensor 7503 is positioned in such a way as to monitor the presence of the second textile element 1222 in proximity to the second collection unit 1232, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and the sensor 7503 can be placed in any position that makes it possible to monitor the presence of the first or second textile element 1221 , 1222. The sensor can be, for example, an optical sensor that monitors the presence of the textile element in a predetermined spatial region, like a pair of optical transmitter and receiver units or a movement sensor that monitors the movement of the textile element or checks the rotation speed of the cursor around the ring at the level of the second collection unit 1232. More generally, any type of sensor that makes it possible to monitor the presence or absence of the textile element in a predetermined spatial region can be used to implement the sensor 7503.

The sensor 7503 can also be connected to the actuator 7305 through a connection not illustrated herein. Thanks to such a connection it is possible to control the actuator through the electric signal emitted by the sensor 7503. The connection can be wired or wireless.

In the case where the electric signal emitted by the sensor 7503 indicates the presence of the textile element, as illustrated in Figure 7C, the actuator 7305 is controlled in such a way as to keep the suction control element in the closed position. In the presence of a tear in the textile element, the situation is as represented in Figure 7B, where the textile element is not detected by the sensor 7503 any longer. In this case, the signal emitted by the sensor causes the movement of the actuator 7305, so as to place the suction control element in the open position, as shown, thus allowing the torn textile element to be sucked. This embodiment is particularly advantageous, because it makes it possible to avoid a mechanical contact with the textile element 1221, 1222, and thus is particularly suitable for those cases in which the mechanical contact provided by the mechanical sensors 4305, 5305, 6305 is not possible. Furthermore, thanks to the electrical connection between the sensor 7503 and the actuator 7305, it is possible to position these two elements with great flexibility.

Even if the embodiment illustrated herein has been represented with reference to a suction control element 2304, the present embodiment is not limited to this case, and the actuator 7305 can be used with any suction control element.

Furthermore, it is clear that, as described above, the electromechanical actuator 7305 can also operate based on the signal emitted by the position sensor 6502. Figure 8A schematically shows a side sectional view of a spinning frame 8000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 8B and 8C schematically show an enlarged view and the operation of part of the embodiment shown in Figure 8A.

The spinning frame 8000 differs from the spinning frame 7000 due to the presence of a second sensor 8504, which is suited to be used to detect the presence or the absence of the textile element, too. The two sensors 7503 and 8504 can cooperate in controlling the electromechanical actuator 7305.

For example, when the second sensor 8504 and the first sensor 7503 detect the presence of the textile element, the suction control element 2304, 6304 is kept closed, as shown in Figure 8A. When the first sensor 7503 does not detect the presence of the textile element, the suction control element 2304, 6304 is open, as shown in Figure 8B. Finally, when also the second sensor 8504 does not detect the presence of the cut textile element any longer, the electromechanical actuator 7305 will operate the suction control element 2304, 6304 so that it returns to the closed position.

In such an embodiment a suction opening is substantially created only when tearing occurs and, advantageously, for a duration substantially corresponding to the suction of the cut part of the textile element 1221 , 1222, therefore with further reduction of consumption by the suction element 1401. In the previous description a number of sensors 6502, 7503, 8504 have thus been described which can be used to supply a signal indicating the presence or the absence of the textile element at the level of several positions of the spinning point 1200.

Here below a description is provided of how these signals can be used to control various elements, such as the suction element 1401 , and/or a cutting element 9701 and/or a warning light 3601.

Figures 9A and 9B schematically show a side sectional view of parts of a spinning frame 8000 and of the respective components according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The spinning frame 9000 is based on the spinning frame 2000 and differs from the latter due to the additional presence of a cutting element 9701 and of a respective actuator 9702.

The cutting element 9701 illustrated herein is a generally circular element, with a diameter substantially equal to that of the roller 121 1 , and placed in proximity to the latter. The actuator 9702 in this case is an angular actuator, capable of rotating the cutting element 9701 clockwise, until the end of the cutting element is inserted between the rollers 121 1 and 1212, remaining pinched between them, thus cutting the textile element 1221 and locking the part of the textile element 1221 that is entering between the rollers 121 1 and 1212.

It will be clear to the expert in the art that this is only one possible implementation of the present embodiment and that other alternatives can be used. For example, a cutting element in a linear shape and a linear actuator can be used to insert the cutting element between the two rollers 121 1 and 1212. Alternatively, the cutting element may act between the rollers 1213 and 1214, or between the rollers 1215 and 1216. Still alternatively, the cutting element may be a pair of scissors actuated by a special actuator, a blade, or any element that, controlled by a specific actuator, allows the textile element to be cut, preferably upstream of the rollers 121 1- 1216.

Thanks to this embodiment, it is possible to cut the textile element by means of a command, at any moment. This is particularly advantageous if combined with any of the embodiments described above.

In particular, in the embodiments described herein, following the production of a tear in the textile element 1221, 1222, the torn textile element is sucked into the suction pipe 1402. This considerably reduces the risk of this textile element being twisted around one or more rollers 121 1- 1216, but can be unsatisfying in the case where the suction pipe 1402 continuously sucks material, with problems related to the clogging of the same pipe and the waste of material that is currently not spun.

By combining the action of the cutting element with the suction effect described in relation to the embodiments, it is possible to prevent the textile element 1221, 1222 from twisting on the rollers 121 1- 1216, and at the same time to limit the quantity of textile element sucked inside the suction pipe 1402.

In order to make the two systems, the suction system and the cutting system, work in a substantially synchronous manner, it is particularly advantageous to make the cutting system operate based on the signals indicating the presence of a tear described with reference to the other embodiments.

In particular, it will be possible to activate the actuator 9702 based on any of the signals emitted by one or more of the sensors 6502, 7503, 8504 and indicating the presence of a tear.

It is also possible, for example when an electromechanical actuator 7305 is used to control the suction control element 2304, 6304, to operate the electromechanical actuator, 7305 only for a defined time, for example 15-60 seconds, in such a way that the suction control element 2304, 6304 remains open only for the time necessary to suck the part of the textile element which has been cut by the cutting element 9701. Once the predefined time has elapsed, the electromechanical actuator 7305 can operate the suction control element 2304, 6304 so that it returns to the closed position.

As an alternative or in addition to allowing the operation of the cutting element, the signals emitted by the sensors 6502, 7503, or 8504 also make it possible to detect the presence of the textile element or the tear, potentially on each individual spinning point 1200.

In this manner, it is possible to obtain a system for generally detecting the breakages present on the spinning frame and managing such information for a more general control and monitoring of the operation of the spinning frame.

Furthermore, it is possible to use these signals to advantageously control the operation of the suction element 1401.

In particular. Figures 10 and 1 1 A schematically show a type of system for controlling the suction element operating as an open ring, while Figure 12 schematically shows a type of system for controlling the suction element operating as a closed ring. Only the elements related to suction are shown in Figures 10-13, for the sake of clarity.

Figure 10 schematically shows an open ring suction control system 1000 of a spinning frame, comprising four suction openings 10301 A, 1030 IB, 10301C, 1030 ID, respectively of four spinning points 1200A-D. Each one of the four suction openings represents a suction opening 1301, as shown in Figure 1. It is clear that although the illustrated suction openings are four, the present invention is not limited to this specific number. In industrial spinning frames there can be hundreds, or more than a thousand suction openings. It will also be clear that the open ring suction control system can be applied both in the presence and in the absence of suction control elements 2304, 6304. In the case illustrated in Figure 10 there is no suction control element.

The four suction openings are connected to a single suction element 1401 through a plurality of suction pipes 1402 . It is clear that it is not necessary that a single suction element be applied to all of the spinning points 1200 of a single spinning frame. In order to apply the suction control system, it is sufficient that a plurality of spinning points be connected to a single suction element 1401. It is thus possible, for example, that two suction elements 1401 are present in a spinning frame, each suction element being connected to a given number of spinning points 1200 and being controlled as described below.

A sensor 10500 A, 10500B, 10500C, 10500D is schematically illustrated for each suction opening. Each one of the sensors 10500A-D can be constituted by a sensor 6502, 7503 or 8504.

The open ring suction control system comprises also the suction element 1401 and a controller 10801 connected to the signals emitted by the sensors 10500A- D. The connection is schematically illustrated as wired, but it can also be wireless, for example a ZigBee connection.

The controller 10801 determines the suction power of the suction element 1401 and is configured as follows.

If the sensors 10500A-D emit no signals indicating the presence of tears, the controller 10801 sets a minimum suction power, in such a way as to ensure that the inside of the suction pipe 1402 is clean, and so as to maintain a flow that makes it possible to suck the dust and fibres that may be generated by the spinning points 1200A-D.

In the presence of one or more signals indicating that there is a tear, the controller 10801 increases the suction level, even up to a maximum level, so as to ensure the required suction power. After a predetermined time, for example a time interval ranging between 15 and 60 seconds, from the last signal indicating that a tear has been made, the controller reduces the suction power again to the minimum level. Alternatively, it is possible to return to the minimum level through a manual reset made by an operator.

In this manner, it is possible to ensure sufficient suction in the presence of one or more tears, and to reduce energy consumption and/or noise in the absence of tears, while at the same time maintaining a relatively simple system thanks to the absence of the suction control elements.

An open ring suction control system 1 1000 is schematically illustrated in Figure 1 1 A. The open ring suction control system 1 1000 differs from the open ring suction control system 10000 owing to the presence of a suction control element 6304 A-D, respectively in each one of the spinning points 1200A-D. It is clear that the embodiment can also be implemented with the suction control element 2304.

If the sensors 10500A-D emit no signals indicating the presence of tears, the controller 1 1801 set a minimum suction power, in such a way as to ensure that the inside of the suction pipe 1402 is clean, and so as to maintain a flow that makes it possible to suck the dust that may be generated by the spinning points 1200A-D.

In the presence of one or more signals indicating the presence of a tear, the controller 1 1801 increases the suction level, according to the number of tears identified by the sensors 10500 A-D.

In particular, the controller 1 1801 can operate in a linear manner. Therefore, given a difference X between the maximum suction value and the minimum suction value set in the absence of tears, and given four spinning points 1200, the controller 1 1801 increases the suction power of the suction element by X/4 for each registered tear. For example, in case of tears signalled by the sensors 10500A and 10500B, the controller 1 1801 increases the suction power by X/2. At the moment when the signals received from the sensors 10500A and 10500B do not indicate the presence of a tear any longer, the suction power is again reduced to the minimum value. If only one of the two sensors does not indicate the presence of a tear any longer, the power is reduced by X/4.

Furthermore, in the embodiments that combine the open ring suction control system 1 1000 with the cutting element 9701, it is possible to reduce the suction power at the moment when, although in the presence of a not yet reconnected tear, no more suction is necessary at the respective spinning point 1200. This takes place based on the signal received from the second sensor 8504, which is also connected to the controller 1 1801, or after a predetermined time, for example 15-60 seconds, following the determination of the presence of the tear by the sensor 10500A-D.

In this manner, it is possible to obtain a gradual increase of the suction power depending on the number of spinning points 1200 showing a tear, instead of passing immediately to the maximum level. This allows energy consumption and/or noise to be further reduced compared to the control system 10000. Furthermore, in case of implementation of the cutting system, it is possible to reduce suction after a limited time, so as to further reduce energy consumption and/or noise.

In further embodiments it is possible to adjust the minimum suction power to a level that not only guarantees the cleaning function, but that is also sufficient to provide suction at a spinning point 1200. In this manner, at the moment when a tear is produced, the available suction power is already sufficient and it is not necessary to wait for the power of the suction element 1200 to be increased. Even in this case, detecting the tear means increasing the suction level by X/4, so that the current suction power becomes sufficient to suck two torn threads at two spinning points, and the system is ready to suck the next torn thread, etc. In other words, the controller 1 1801 can always operate with a suction level that depends on the number of tears plus one. It is clear that it is also possible to operate with a suction level that depends on the number of tears, plus two, three, etc.

By way of example, Figure 1 IB schematically shows the evolution of the suction level in the case where the minimum suction level selected is sufficient to suck at one spinning point, and the evolution of the suction level in the presence of one, two, three, four, three and two tears at the spinning points 1200A-D.

The number of tears is represented by the broken line, while the suction power is represented by the continuous line. The maximum suction power is represented by the double continuous line. As can be seen, thanks to the offset provided by the minimum level, it is possible to anticipate the successive tear and guarantee that the torn thread is sucked, with a limited increase in consumption.

Even if in the cases of open ring control systems described above only one suction element 1401 has been described for all the suction openings 10301A-D, the present invention is not limited to this case. In alternative embodiments, it will be possible to use several suction elements 1401 in a single spinning frame. In the case where a first suction element 1401 is connected to a first plurality of suction openings, and a second suction element 1401 is connected independently to a second plurality of suction openings, the two systems behave as described above, that is, independently.

However, it is possible that a single suction pipe 1402 connects a plurality of suction openings 10301A-D to more than one suction element. In this case, the multiple suction elements may be operated in parallel, so as to increase or decrease their suction power in a substantially parallel manner.

In alternative embodiments it is possible to control the suction power of a first suction element 1401, located in proximity to the tear, in a different manner compared to the suction power of a second suction element located further away from the tear than the first suction element. This is possible when the position of the sensor 10500A-D signalling the presence of a tear is known.

For example, in the case of two suction elements in the system 10000, the first connected nearer to the openings 10301 A and 1030 IB, the second connected nearer to the openings 10301C and 1030 ID, if the sensor 10500A signals the presence of a tear it is possible to increase the suction power of the first suction element to a larger extent compared to the increase of the suction power of the second suction element. For example, if a 30% increase of the suction power is required, it will be possible to increase by 20% the suction power of the first suction element and by 10% the suction power of the second suction element. In some embodiments it is possible to increase only the suction power of the suction element that is nearer to the tear.

In this way, it is possible to provide a suction control system in which the spinning frame furthermore comprises a second suction element 1401 and the controller is configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the second suction element 1401 based on the signals emitted by the sensors 10500A-D, in particular where the suction element and the second suction element are controlled independently of each other. Even more particularly, where the suction element and the second suction element are controlled based on their respective distance from the one or more sensors indicating the presence of tears. In general, it is thus possible to assign a larger part of the necessary suction power increase to the suction element that is nearer to the tear rather than to the suction element that is further from the tear. It is clear that the same principle can be applied in the case where any number of suction elements is present. In particular, in a spinning frame the use of several suction elements, each with reduced power, rather than a single suction element, makes it possible to adjust each suction element in a targeted manner, so as to reduce overall consumption.

A closed ring suction control system 12000 is schematically illustrated in Figure 12. The closed ring suction control system 12000 differs from the open ring suction control system 10000 owing to the presence of a pressure sensor 12802, for example a pressure switch or any other element capable of measuring a pressure value inside the suction pipe 1402 and connected to the controller 12801.

In this case, thanks to the pressure measurement, it is possible to implement a closed ring control system.

In particular, the controller 12801 operates in such a way as to maintain the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor 12802 at a constant level that can be defined by the user. In this way, it is possible to guarantee a constant pressure inside the suction pipe 1402, even if the sensors 10500A-D are not connected to the controller 12801.

In particular, the sensors 10500A-D can be used to actuate the respective suction control elements 6304A-D electronically or mechanically. In the case of a mechanical control system, the sensors 10500A-D can also be constituted by the mechanical sensors 4305. 5305 or 6305. The management of the signals by the controller 12801 is thus simplified.

The pressure value that can be defined by the user can be, for example, lower than the atmospheric pressure and able to ensure an air flow which in the absence of tears is sufficient to keep the suction pipe clean.

In this way constant minimum suction is guaranteed in the absence of tears. At the moment when any number of tears is produced and the corresponding suction control element 6304A-D opens, the pressure tends to increase.

The closed ring control system operated by means of the pressure sensor 12802 will thus increase the suction power, in such a way as to bring the pressure value measured by the pressure sensor 12802 back to the level defined by the user. The closed ring control system can be implemented, for example, by means of a differential amplifier or industrial regulators or PID control, as will be clear to the expert in the art.

In an alternative embodiment, the sensors 10500A-D can however be connected to the controller 12801, or to an element suited to manage the spinning frame, not illustrated herein, so as to register the number of tears. The same can be obtained in the case of the system 1 1000.

This makes it possible, for example, to notice anomalies in the case where tears are produced more often at some specific spinning points 1200, and so to warn the operator regarding the need to check the respective spinning points.

A closed ring suction control system 13000 is schematically illustrated in Figure 13.

The closed ring suction control system 13000 differs from the closed ring suction control system 12000 due to the presence of a second pressure sensor 13803 connected to the controller 13801.

In the system illustrated herein, both the pressure sensors 12802 and 13803 take part in the control of the suction element 1401.

It is thus possible, for example, to use the average value supplied by the two sensors to control the suction power.

Alternatively, it is possible to use the highest pressure value, in such a way as to ensure that the pressure never exceeds the predefined value set by the operator in different points of the suction pipe 1402.

Even in the closed ring suction control system it is possible to have several suction elements 1401 connected to the suction openings 10301 A-D.

In some embodiments it will thus be possible to control each suction element by means of a corresponding pressure sensor. In other embodiments, it will be possible to connect several sensors to a single suction element and to control the suction power of the suction elements in a different manner, based on the position of the pressure sensor and of the suction element, analogously to the situation described with reference to the open ring control system.

More generally, both in the case of closed ring control systems and in the case of open ring control systems, in the presence of a plurality of suction elements 1401 and/or of a plurality of pressure sensors 12802, 13803 and/or of a plurality of sensors 10500 A-D, it is possible to control the single suction element based on the indications provided by one or more pressure sensors 12802, 13803 and/or one or more sensors 10500 A-D, so as to take into account the position of the suction element with respect to the position of the tear indicated by the sensor 10500A-D and/or the position of the pressure sensor 12802, 13803 and to operate the suction system in an effective and/or rapid manner.

In some embodiments it will thus be possible to provide a suction control system 13000 in which the spinning frame furthermore comprises a second suction element 1401 and the system comprises also a second pressure sensor 13803 suited to emit a signal indicating a pressure value measured inside the suction pipe 1402, and wherein the controller 13801 is configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element 1401 and/or of the second suction element based on the signal received from the pressure sensor 12802 and/or based on the signal received from the second pressure sensor 13803. In particular, the controller 13801 is configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element 1401 and the suction power of the second suction element independently of each other. Even more particularly, the controller 13801 is configured in such a way as to control the suction power of the suction element 1401 and of the second suction element based on the respective distance from the pressure sensor 12802 and/or from the second pressure sensor with respect to the suction element 1401 and/or with respect to the second suction element.

In the above descriptions of some embodiments reference was made to controllers capable of recognizing the position of the sensors 10500A-D and/or of the pressure sensor 12802, 13803. It is clear that such information can be obtained in several manners by the controller, for example by wiring each sensor to a specific port of the controller and/or by means of an identification code sent by each single sensor, so as to allow the controller to recognize the position of the sensors 10500A-D. It is also clear that the same principle can be applied to any number of suction elements, with the advantages already described above. The descriptions of some embodiments provided above refer to spinning frames in order to simplify the explanation. Nevertheless, the present invention does not require the setting up of a complete spinning frame and other embodiments of the present invention may concern even only components of the described spinning frames.

In addition to the above, in some embodiments of the present invention it is possible to provide one or more holes, located upstream of the suction control element, in such a way as to guarantee the presence of an air flow towards the suction element, even in the case where all the suction control elements are in the completely closed position. This is particularly advantageous in the case where some suction elements 1401 may be damaged by operation with no air flow. Furthermore, the presence of said hole/holes makes it possible to guarantee a minimum air flow, in such a way as to ensure the cleaning of the suction pipe. An example of embodiment is represented by the suction holes 6321 , which can be made in the suction device of the spinning frame 6000, or in any other spinning frame described herein.

As an alternative or in addition to the above, a similar minimum suction effect can be obtained by guaranteeing the presence of an opening 6306 in the suction control element 6304. This opening can be made also with a suction control element 6304 whose size is such that it does not hit the suction pipe 1402, at least on one side.

As an alternative or in addition to the above, it is possible to make holes in the suction control element 6304. As an alternative or in addition to the above, it is possible to adjust the opening 6306 through the specific adjustment of the stop element 6312 as described above.

It is clear that these solutions can be implemented in the suction device of the spinning frame 6000, or in any other suction device and/or spinning frame described above.

Furthermore, in other variant embodiments it will be possible to provide convenient combinations of the solutions described above with reference to the various embodiments.

It has thus been shown by means of the description provided above that the present invention makes it possible to achieve the set objects and/or to solve the problems existing in the state of the art.

In all the embodiments described above, it is also possible to include a warning light, for example schematically represented as the warning light 3601 in Figure 3A, in case of installation on the spinning frame, or in Figure 6A, in case of installation on the suction device. The warning light 3601 is activated based on the signal emitted by the position sensor 6502 and/or by the sensor 7503 and/or by the second sensor 8504. The warning light 3601 can thus light up when a tear is produced, so as to signal its presence to an operator. The warning light 3601 can furthermore be configured so that it remains on even after the signal has stopped warning the operator about the presence of a tear, and so that the operator needs to reset in order to switch it off. Even if the warning light has been represented in combination with the spinning frame 3000 or 6000, the present invention is not limited to this implementation and the warning light can be provided in combination with any spinning frame described herein.

Even if the present invention has been illustrated above by means of the detailed description of some embodiments of the same represented in the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and represented in the drawings; on the contrary, further variants of the embodiments described above fall within the scope of the present invention, which is defined in the claims.