6 - Automated spreading of textile materials

Abstract

Automated multi-ply spreading is performed by a spreading machine that provides fabric feeding and laying on a spreading table. The spreading machines may be equipped with different fabric feeding systems depending on fabric properties and application. The traditional kind of spreading machines uses movable feeding systems: multi-belt, single-belt, and multi-roll cradle-type feed systems and free or motorized bar systems. Cradle feeding systems ensure tension-free spreading for all kind of materials and fabrics difficult to unwind. They are used to process small- and medium-size and weight fabric rolls manufacturing garments, home textiles, and technical textiles. The main parts of a traditional kind of spreading machine are: a fabric spreader truck, a fabric feed system, a cutting device, an encoder system, a control panel, an operator stand panel, and an end catcher. Specially designed spreaders or traditional machines equipped with several special devices are used for tubular materials. Spreading machines with stationary feeding systems feed the fabric by help of a stationary cradle or a bar. The bar may be freely moving or motorized. The stationary feeding systems are used processing home and technical textiles when it is necessary to spread very large and heavy rolls, several rolls simultaneously and double-folded rolls which have to be opened before lying on the spreading table. Spreading machines with a mixed feeding system use advantages of both feeding systems. All fabric spreading modes can be performed by traditional kind of spreading machines. Taking into account the fact that the entire fabric roll and not just its edge is transferred above a spreading table, there are some process performance differences between automated and manual spreading. Automated spreading systems can determine textile faults during the spreading process in a similar manner to that of manual spreading processes. Splice marks placed in a marker and a fault registration system are used to carry out this process.