Analysis of the magnetic field and electromagnetic force of a non-striking weft insertion system for super broad-width looms, based on an electromagnetic launcher

Abstract

Weft insertion based on electromagnetic launch technology is a novel and very promising approach for super broad-width (6–12 m) (SBW) looms. There are considerable challenges involved in designing such a system, including analyzing the electromagnetic field while incorporating the effect of a clip weft device, and accurately calculating the electromagnetic and motion parameters of the weft insertion mechanism. In this study, an electromagnetic launch, non-striking weft insertion method for an SBW loom is proposed. The electromagnetic field is analyzed with the finite element method and includes the effect of a clip weft device. Simulation of the motion, analysis of the maximum flight speed of the clip weft device and the work done by electromagnetic force are presented. We also describe an experimental model for electromagnetic launch weft insertion and calculate the electromagnetic force required for weft insertion, using analytical methods and numerical finite element methods. Comparison of the results with measured values shows that this electromagnetic launch weft insertion system has good flexibility. In addition, the weft insertion speed required for different width looms can be obtained by changing the current of the coil or the coil stage number of the launching system.