Alternate Twist Patents (Class 57/293)
  • Patent number: 11891730
    Abstract: One variation of a method for producing a smart yarn includes: aligning a set of sensing elements offset along a lateral axis in a magazine, wherein each sensing element in the set of sensing elements includes a sensor, a first conductive lead extending from a first side of the sensor along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the lateral axis, and a second conductive lead extending from a second side of the sensor opposite the first side and along the longitudinal axis; wrapping a set of fibers into a yarn within a wrapping field; feeding a leading end of a first sensing element, in the set of sensing elements, from the magazine into the wrapping field; releasing the first sensing element from the magazine into the wrapping field; encasing the first sensing element between the set of fibers within the yarn; and repeating this process for the set of sensing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Siren Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Jie Fu, Ran Ma, Henk Jan Scholten
  • Patent number: 11662534
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a method of preparing a bundled cable. In the method, a plurality of subunits is wound around a central member in one or more layers of subunits to form the bundled cable. For a section of the central member, each layer of subunits has a pitch over which a subunit of the layer of subunits makes one revolution around the section of the central member and a length of the subunit required to make the one revolution. The subunits are configured to have a nominal helical length equal to the ratio of a nominal length to a nominal pitch. Further, in the method, a measurement of the bundled cable is monitored, and a winding rate of the plurality of subunits is adjusted based on the measurement in order to account for deviations from the nominal helical length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: CORNING RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mark Edward Conner, Eric Scott Quinby, James Arthur Register, III, Hieu Vinh Tran
  • Patent number: 11268238
    Abstract: A cable-stranding apparatus includes a stationary guide, a motor, a driven guide, and a controller electrically coupled to the motor. The stationary guide is configured to guide strand elements in a spaced-apart configuration and to pass a core member. The motor is operatively associated with a guide driver. The driven guide is disposed at least partially within the guide driver so as to rotate therewith. The driven guide is configured to receive the strand elements from the stationary guide, individually guide the strand elements received from the stationary guide, and to further pass the core member. The controller is electrically coupled to the motor and configured to control the rotational speed and direction of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: CORNING OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS LLC
    Inventors: David Wesley Chiasson, Craig Miller Conrad, Jonathan Edward Moon, Mark Wade Petersen, David Henry Smith
  • Patent number: 11199676
    Abstract: An optical fiber cable manufacturing method using a manufacturing apparatus including an SZ twisting device, an extrusion molding device, and a pressing portion disposed between the SZ twisting device and the extrusion molding device is provided. The method including: twisting optical fibers or optical fiber units in an SZ manner using the SZ twisting device to form an optical fiber bundle; and covering the optical fiber bundle with a sheath using the extrusion molding device while pressing the optical fiber bundle using the pressing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: FUJIKURA LTD.
    Inventors: Shinnosuke Sato, Kouji Tomikawa, Ken Osato
  • Patent number: 10995430
    Abstract: A process for manufacturing a yarn includes twisting the yarn in a first direction for a predefined number of twists. The method also includes, after the predefined number of twists, twisting the yarn in a second direction for a predefined number of twists, the predefined number of twists for the second yarn is same as the predefined number of twists for the first yarn. The twisting of the yarn in the second direction creates an air bed within the yarn's fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: Amrapur Overseas, Inc.
    Inventor: Vikas Makkar
  • Patent number: 10784025
    Abstract: One embodiment relates to a method for producing cable. The method includes applying an insulative coating to each of a plurality of conductors to form a plurality of insulated conductors. The method further includes taking up the plurality of insulated conductors in a twisting system to twist the plurality of insulated conductors together and apply a first portion of a desired twist to the plurality of insulated conductors. The method further includes paying off the plurality of insulated conductors from the twisting system to further twist the plurality of insulated conductors together and apply a second portion of a desired twist to the plurality of insulated conductors to form a twisted plurality of insulated conductors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Belden Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Edward Crouse
  • Patent number: 10418155
    Abstract: Twisting device for electrical conductors has at least one twisting head that rotates about an axis of rotation and a clamping device. The twisting head is movable in the direction of its axis of rotation toward the clamping device and is mounted on a first, motorized length compensation carriage, while the clamping device is mounted on a travel compensation carriage that is movable towards the length compensation carriage parallel to the axis of rotation of the twisting head. After the conductors have been cut to size and transferred to the twisting head and the clamping device, they are placed under tension. Then, the twisting head is activated to rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to the conductors while simultaneously moving towards the clamping device. Simultaneously, the clamping device is subjected to a force directed away from the twisting head and the travel/force profile for the clamping device is evaluated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: SCHLEUNIGER HOLDING AG
    Inventors: Uwe Keil, Roland Kampmann
  • Patent number: 9887025
    Abstract: A system for bundling a plurality of high temperature superconductor tapes into a flexible cable, includes a first alignment device for receiving and guiding there through the plurality of high temperature superconductor tapes, each of the tapes arranged with a wide surface oriented at a first angle. There is a second alignment device for receiving and guiding there through the plurality of high temperature superconductor tapes, each of said tapes arranged with the wide surface oriented at a second angle. The first angle is transverse to the second angle and plastically deforms the tapes to impart a twist pitch in the tapes. There is a forming member spaced from the second alignment device for receiving the plurality of high temperature superconductor tapes with the imparted twist pitch and forming them into a bundle of high temperature superconductor tapes of the high temperature superconductor tapes with the imparted twist pitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: American Superconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Glenn C. Driscoll, Henry C. Valcour, III, Paul Yankauskas, Daniel B. George, II, Alan W. Baum, Timothy G. Freidhoff, Bryan P. Tipton, Patricia D. Huber
  • Patent number: 9726843
    Abstract: An optical cable includes a core member and a plurality of strands wound around the core member in an SZ configuration, the SZ configuration having at least two reversal sections and a helical section extending along a longitudinal length between the at least two reversal sections. A helical lay length of the wound strands is variable along the longitudinal length of the helical section. A method of forming an optical cable includes providing a core member and surrounding the core member with a plurality of strands by winding the strands in an SZ configuration that includes a helical section extending longitudinally between at least two reversal sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Corning Optical Communications LLC
    Inventors: Eric Raymond Logan, David Alan Seddon
  • Publication number: 20150082765
    Abstract: A cable-stranding apparatus includes a stationary guide, a motor, a driven guide, and a controller electrically coupled to the motor. The stationary guide is configured to guide strand elements in a spaced-apart configuration and to pass a core member. The motor is operatively associated with a guide driver. The driven guide is disposed at least partially within the guide driver so as to rotate therewith. The driven guide is configured to receive the strand elements from the stationary guide, individually guide the strand elements received from the stationary guide, and to further pass the core member. The controller is electrically coupled to the motor and configured to control the rotational speed and direction of the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Chiasson David Wesley, Craig Miller Conrad, Jonathan Edward Moon, Mark Wade Petersen, David Henry Smith
  • Patent number: 8919092
    Abstract: An SZ laying machine for umbilical/power umbilical is described. Starting from an input end the machine includes: a first die receiving and collecting a first set of elongate elements substantially rectilinear from respective supplies of elongate elements, a second static die which receives and collects a second set of elongate elements substantially rectilinear from respective supplies of elongate elements and this second set is closed together with the first set into an assembled bundle, at least one supporting means which keeps the assembled bundle radially in place; a revolving device able to torsional rotate the bundle back and forth in an oscillating SZ manner, and a tape or band winding apparatus which in immediate proximity to the revolving device applies band or tape circumferentially onto the SZ laid bundle of elongate elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Aker Subsea AS
    Inventors: Arild Figenschou, Finn Peter Gjerull
  • Patent number: 8904743
    Abstract: A cable-stranding apparatus includes a stationary guide, a motor, a driven guide, and a controller electrically coupled to the motor. The stationary guide is configured to guide strand elements in a spaced-apart configuration and to pass a core member. The motor is operatively associated with a guide driver. The driven guide is disposed at least partially within the guide driver so as to rotate therewith. The driven guide is configured to receive the strand elements from the stationary guide, individually guide the strand elements received from the stationary guide, and to further pass the core member. The controller is electrically coupled to the motor and configured to control the rotational speed and direction of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: David W. Chiasson, Craig M. Conrad, Jonathan E. Moon, Mark W. Petersen, David H. Smith
  • Patent number: 8756906
    Abstract: An upstream twisting inhibiting roller, a twist non-inhibiting roller, a twist provider and a downstream twist inhibiting roller are provided in this order along the path line of a coated optical fiber. The twist provider provides the twist to the coated optical fiber. The upstream twist inhibiting roller and the downstream twist inhibiting roller respectively inhibit a rotation of the coated optical fiber around the axis of the coated optical fiber. The twist non-inhibiting roller does not inhibit the rotation of the coated optical fiber around the axis of the coated optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetsuya Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20130205741
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method and device for producing an alternate S/Z twist plied braid and joined alternate S/Z twist plied yarns. The invention further provides an alternate S/Z twist plied braid and joined alternate S/Z twist plied yarns produced according to a process of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: GILBOS N.V.
    Inventors: Erik Gilbos, Miguel Vermandel, Hans Evenepoel, Jeroen Claes
  • Patent number: 8468689
    Abstract: A plurality of individual elements are imparted with reverse axial twist and collectively twisted into a multi-element assembly. Each individual element has an axial twist direction in an opposite direction from the axial twist direction of the collective multi-element assembly. The reverse axial torsion in the assembly tightly binds the plurality elements in the assembly to resist separation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Southwire Company
    Inventors: Stephen L. Spruell, Wilber F. Powers, Scott Robertson
  • Patent number: 8443581
    Abstract: An optical fiber producing method and apparatus for producing an optical fiber in which, in a path where an optical fiber is reeled out from a supply bobbin, taken up by take-up means, and wound by a winding bobbin, twists are alternately imparted to the optical fiber by a twist imparting portion. A zone where a high tension load is allowed to be applied to the optical fiber without affecting winding tension of the winding bobbin is disposed, a twist is imparted in the zone, and, when tension immediately before the twist imparting portion is indicated by T (g), a free path length is indicated by L, a twisting amount is indicated by R (turns/m), and a and b are constants, the tension and free path length by which the twisting amount R approximated by “R=a×T×Lb” is made “2” or more are set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Naruki Koshimizu, Yuji Abe, Toshimi Habasaki, Tetsuya Hayashi
  • Patent number: 8429889
    Abstract: Apparatus and a method for producing a yarn, the apparatus and method comprising a reciprocating twisting stage, the reciprocating twisting stage comprising one or more twist rollers that rotate along an axis of rotation and that are arranged to move reciprocally along the axis of rotation to impart twist to one or more slivers to form twisted strands; and a drive system for one or more take up holders, the drive system arranged to have wound onto the one or more take up holders the yarn after two or more strands are twisted together to form the yarn. The drive system is arranged to drive the one or more take up holders such that the linear speed at which the yarn is wound onto the one or more take up holders can be controlled relative to the linear speed at which the strands exit the one or more twist rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: David Arthur Lee
  • Patent number: 8190328
    Abstract: An electropneumatic control arrangement for an automatic vehicle level control system, particularly of a commercial vehicle, includes at least; a solenoid valve unit having at least two electropneumatic solenoid valves, a compressed air inlet for infeeding compressed air, at least one compressed air connection for at least one air bellows and electrical control inputs, and an electronic control unit for actuating the solenoid valve unit. The electronic control unit comprises control outputs for electrically connecting to the control inputs of the solenoid valve unit. A plug connector is configured on the housing of the solenoid valve unit, in which the electrical control inputs are disposed, and a plug connector is provided on the housing of the electronic control unit, in which the control outputs are disposed. The plug connectors are mechanically plugged into each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventors: Ingo Jovers, Berend Kleen, Johann Lucas, Frauke Rathjen, Andreas Rutsch, Andreas Schwarzer, Thomas Stellmacher
  • Patent number: 8161721
    Abstract: A cable-stranding apparatus for performing SZ-stranding of strand elements about at least one core member is disclosed. A first stationary guide member individually guides the strand elements in a spaced apart configuration and centrally passes the at least one core member. At least one hollow-shaft motor is arranged downstream of the stationary guide member. A rotating guide member is disposed in the hollow shaft and rotates with the hollow shaft according to a rotation relationship. The rotation relationship controls the rotational speed and direction of the rotating guide member to SZ-strand the strand elements about the at least one core member to form an SZ-stranded assembly. Embodiments of cable-stranding apparatus having multiple hollow-shaft motors and respective multiple rotating guide members are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: David W. Chiasson, Craig M. Conrad, Jonathan E. Moon, Mark W. Petersen, David H. Smith
  • Patent number: 8161722
    Abstract: Cable-stranding methods for performing SZ-stranding of strand elements about at least one core member are disclosed. One method includes passing initially spaced apart strand elements through peripheral guide holes and passing at least one core member through a generally central location of at least one guide member. The method also includes actuating a controller that controls the rotation of the at least one guide member and rotating the at least one guide member to form the SZ-stranded assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems LLC
    Inventors: David W. Chiasson, Craig M. Conrad, Jonathan E. Moon, Mark W. Petersen, David H. Smith
  • Patent number: 8117816
    Abstract: The present application of the invention aims at improving knot strength of a twisted yarn without compromising circularity, with respect to various yarns including a fishing line. For such purpose, the present application of the invention provides a yarn including a multifilament subjected to two twisting processes in different directions, and a coating resin that covers a surface of the multifilament; wherein the multifilament is subjected to a first twist in one direction, and then to a second twist in a direction opposite to that of the first twist, without being doubled with another yarn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Duel Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Yasuhisa Yamamoto, Eric Eun-Ha Choi
  • Publication number: 20110146832
    Abstract: A process of manufacturing a ultra-soft yarn includes wrapping a roving material with a yarn by a low twist-multiplier of about 1˜4, wherein the roving material is drawn at a draw ratio preferably between 1 and 10, wherein the ultra-soft yarn has a fluffy structure, which can provide better softness, draping property, and hand feel to users. Fabric including the ultra-soft yarn is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Chih-Chang HSU, Hsin-Chuan Chen, Chen-Chi Lee
  • Publication number: 20110016841
    Abstract: ATP yarns having high twist efficiency (low residual twist) as well as methods for increasing the self plying action that occurs in ATP yarn processing. The self plying action and the ATP yarn structure may be improved by increasing the convergence angle of the singles twist yarns to above 50 degrees (compared to current values of 0 to 35 degrees). The increased convergence angle permits an increase in the ply twist above the level possible by self plying alone. This results in a yarn with reduced residual singles twist. An array of singles torque jets and an optional ply torque jet has been developed to achieve a high convergence angle. The angle between the singles torque jet axes can be varied from 0 to 180 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: DREXEL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Peter Popper, Donia Elkhamy, Paul Yngve, Frank Ko
  • Patent number: 7810308
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a towel, specifically a low twist towel, comprising the following steps: Z twisting a thick yarn and separately Z twisting a fine count yarn; unevenly S twisting the Z-twisted yarns to make the volume of the thick yarn more than that of the fine count; weaving the yarn to produce a fabric; processing the fabric with hot water to reduce inner tension in the yarn and make the fabric become fluffy. Fabric produced by this method can solve the dependency on PVA, reduce energy consumption and material consumption, and prevent water pollution. This method for producing a low twist towel is environmentally friendly, healthy, and energy saving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Loftex USA LLC
    Inventor: Hongxing Wang
  • Publication number: 20100229521
    Abstract: The present application of the invention aims at improving knot strength of a twisted yarn without compromising circularity, with respect to various yarns including a fishing line. For such purpose, the present application of the invention provides a yarn including a multifilament subjected to two twisting processes in different directions, and a coating resin that covers a surface of the multifilament; wherein the multifilament is subjected to a first twist in one direction, and then to a second twist in a direction opposite to that of the first twist, without being doubled with another yarn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventors: Yasuhisa Yamamoto, Eric Eun-Ha Choi
  • Patent number: 7752832
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing a yarn including reciprocating twisting stage (4) adapted to simultaneously twist one or more slivers to produce one or more twisted strands, including one or more rollers (6a, 6b) arranged to move reciprocally (B) along the axis of rotation of the roller(s) to input twist to the sliver(s), and control means enabling control and variation of one or more of: (a) rotation speed of the rollers(s); (b) extent of transverse movement of the roller(s)s; or (c) speed of the transverse movement of the roller(s), to vary the twist imparted to the sliver(s) or strand(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Summit Wool Spinners Limited
    Inventor: David Arthur Lee
  • Publication number: 20090025359
    Abstract: Input fibers to be used for the manufacture of textile components are cut to a proper length [113]. The fibers are metallized [115] with silver and copper. The metallized fibers are opened [121] and blended [123] with other fibers. The blended fibers are preferably opened again [125]. Then the blended fibers are oriented [127] and drawn [129] into a sliver. Roving [140] may be applied to the sliver to condense the fibers. The length of the fibers, the denier of the fibers, the amount of metal coating and composition of the metal coating are selected to provide an optimum amount of metal ion discharge to have the proper antimicrobial properties, while optimizing wound healing properties, and minimizing manufacturing costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: N Satish Chandra, William F. Mcnally
  • Patent number: 7292757
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining and adjusting binder laylength during the process of manufacturing a selected fiber optic cable design. Specifically, a binder, having a distinguishing and physically detectable feature, is wrapped around fiber optic bundles or a buffer tube. A detection system detects the unique feature associated with the binder and thus creates a calculates a representative distance value. The distance value is calculated in relation the periodic spacing between two detected points on the physically detectable binder and is continuously monitored by a closed feedback loop. A computer receives status data from the closed feedback loop and compares the received data to a stored laylength parameter. In light of the comparison, an algorithm adjusts the binder head speed accordingly. This process repeats until the desired stored laylength is detected by the detection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Draka Comteq B.V.
    Inventor: Michael T. Rossi
  • Patent number: 6945026
    Abstract: An unspun yarn including a longitudinal main rope body formed from a least one fibre assembly of substantially untwisted and parallel fibres, and a least one reinforcing thread helically wound around the rope body and extending therealong in a single longitudinal direction. The direction in which the reinforcing thread is wound around the rope is reversed at predetermined intervals. A method of forming an unspun yarn, including providing a fibre assembly of substantially untwisted and parallel fibres and reinforcing thread, forming a longitudinal main rope body; intermittently imparting opposing twists to alternate sections of the rope body while drawing the reinforcing thread longitudinally into surface contact with a twisted section of the rope body, allowing the twisted section to engage the adjacent section of the reinforcing thread, releasing the opposing twists of the rope body causing the engaged reinforcing thread to wrap the rope body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Dyers Road Re-Manufacturing and Imports Limited
    Inventor: Ashley Robert Hanna
  • Patent number: 6729026
    Abstract: Bulges in a wire having helically coiled strands are formed by untwisting the strands in an anti-helical direction at a predetermined position, to form an electrical connector from a length of the stranded wire. The wire is gripped by moving two spaced apart clamp members to a closed position and thereafter rotating the clamp members relative to one another in at least one complete relative revolution in a direction which is anti-helical relative to the coiled strands to form the bulge. The wire is gripped and rotated in the anti-helical direction for a relative rotational interval of greater than one-half, and preferably three-fourths, of a complete relative revolution. Thereafter, during the remaining rotational interval of each relative revolution, the clamp members are opened to permit the wire to be advanced to the next position where a bulge is to be formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Medallion Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Steven E. Garcia, James A. Harden, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6722117
    Abstract: A process for combining singles yarns, of different colors or dyeabilities, to form an apparent twist yarn. The process includes the sequential steps of individually and simultaneously drawing and texturing a plurality of singles yarns; converging the drawn and textured singles yarns through an air jet entangler that simultaneously entangles and tensions the yarn bundle; twisting the singles yarns in the yarn bundle about each other in alternate, or otherwise patterned, S and Z directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Prisma Fibers, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold L. Belcher, Jr., Lawrence E. Rasnick, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6634164
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing stranded cables from strand elements with alternating twist directions (SZ stranding). One or more storage disks can be disposed between a guide that receives the strand elements and a stranding disk. The stranding disk and the storage disks can be driven in alternating directions. At least one torsion element drives the storage disks with a respective rotation speed that decreases with increasing distance between the storage disks and the stranding disk. The torsion element can be driven at several locations with a different rotation speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: KMS Kabelmaschinen und Systeme GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Moser, Günther Kirchknopf, Josef Stiller
  • Patent number: 6560390
    Abstract: A mark sensor and methods for detecting a core mark disposed on a fiber optic cable core having a core receiving area for receiving the fiber optic cable core. The mark sensor includes emitter/receiver sensor devices that can be disposed about the core receiving area for observing a portion of the core for detecting the core mark. The mark sensor can include a sensor positioning system for moving the sensors relative to the core receiving area. The sensor positioning system is operative to move the sensors upon insertion of the cable core in the core receiving area. The sensor positioning system can include a linkage to another mark sensor for transmitting sensor motion to the other mark sensor. Alternatively, the mark sensor can include stationary sensors that sweep the core with radiation, for example, a bar code reader. Methods for using the foregoing sensors can result in the direct or offset marking of reverse oscillation of lay areas in a fiber optic cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Corning Cable Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew J. Grulick, Warren W. McAlpine
  • Patent number: 6550281
    Abstract: A fiber (106) having low polarization mode dispersion is made by heating the end of a preform (100) with a furnace (101). The fiber is drawn from the heated end. The fiber passes between two rollers (102, 104). As the fiber passes therebetween, the angular tilt of each of the rollers is changed so that a spin is imparted to the fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventor: Robert M. Hawk
  • Patent number: 6546712
    Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for improving reverse oscillating lay (ROL) consistency during an optical cable manufacturing process. A torque capstan receives an optical fiber cable from an ROL machine that places reverse-oscillating lay on the core of an optical cable, but also generates some undesirable fluctuating back-tension in a direction opposite a direction in which the optical fiber cable is being pulled during manufacturing of the optical cable. The optical cable comprises a plurality of subunit cables. A drive system coupled to the torque capstan is controlled by a control system in such a way that the torque capstan applies a certain amount of force to the optical cable in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the optical cable is being pulled during manufacturing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Fitel USA Corporation
    Inventors: Parry A. Moss, Wayne M. Newton, Eugene R. Rusiecki, Mark I. Shmukler, Carla G. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20020166316
    Abstract: A method for forming a highly textured loop pile rug and/or carpet using the torque created by twisting then cabling bulk continuous yarns. A flooring article having a textured effect by creating torque in the yarn through the twisting and cabling of bulk continuous fiber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Maya D. Mills
  • Publication number: 20020157375
    Abstract: A method, apparatus and system are provided for improving reverse oscillating lay (ROL) consistency during an optical cable manufacturing process. A torque capstan receives an optical fiber cable from an ROL machine that places reverse-oscillating lay on the core of an optical cable, but also generates some undesirable fluctuating back-tension in a direction opposite a direction in which the optical fiber cable is being pulled during manufacturing of the optical cable. The optical cable comprises a plurality of subunit cables. A drive system coupled to the torque capstan is controlled by a control system in such a way that the torque capstan applies a certain amount of force to the optical cable in a direction substantially parallel to the direction in which the optical cable is being pulled during manufacturing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Parry A. Moss, Wayne M. Newton, Eugene R. Rusiecki, Mark I. Shmukler, Carla G. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6345491
    Abstract: An apparatus for inserting twist into a moving strand, including a first body including an orifice extending therethrough for permitting passage of a moving yarn. An air channel extends therethrough and communicates with the orifice. The air channel communicates with the orifice at a tangentially-offset angle to the path of the yarn through the orifice to create a cyclonic air circulation pattern in the orifice to insert a predetermined direction of twist into the yarn as the yarn passes through the orifice. The first body is adapted for being inverted relative to, and placed in overlying registration with, a second like body whereby the air channel of the first body inserts one predetermined direction of twist into the yarn and the air channel of the second body inserts another predetermined direction of twist into the yarn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Belmont Textile Machinery Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin E. Moran, Kurt Willy Niederer, Robert Edward Taylor, Ralph Samuel Jenkins, Jeffrey Todd Rhyne
  • Patent number: 6324872
    Abstract: Optical fiber is provided with a periodically reversing spin while the fiber is pulled through a melt zone. A cooled region of the fiber downstream from the melt zone passes between a pair of opposed elements. The opposed elements are moved so that surface regions engaging the fiber move in opposite lateral directions relative to one another, thus spinning the fiber about its axis. The lateral movement of the engaged surface portions is periodically reversed to reverse the spin direction. The opposed elements may include belts or rollers, which can be tilted to orientations oblique to the longitudinal direction of the fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Paul E. Blaszyk, William R. Christoff, Daniel E. Gallagher, Robert M. Hawk, William J. Kiefer
  • Patent number: 6314713
    Abstract: A characteristic feature on a generally longitudinal member is detected as the member is longitudinally advanced on a path extending from a first position to a second position. Based on the detection of the feature on the member and monitoring of the advance of the member on the path, indicia can be applied to a desired position on the member. The detected feature can be an S-Z reversal existing or created on a strand of S-Z stranded optical fiber buffer tubes included in an optical fiber cable which is undergoing cable manufacture along a cabling line. Intensity data values representative of an optical image sample of the strand with the S-Z reversal feature, where the image sample is obtained by an optical radiation detector coupled to the path, are processed for identifying the S-Z reversal feature on the strand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Pirelli Cables & Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan G. Fitz, Stephen Richard McNeill
  • Patent number: 6311467
    Abstract: A method for producing a filament yarn with alternating S- and Z-twists. The yarn is moved between two twisting stops and submitted alternatively to S- and Z-twisting by at least one false twisting unit. The twists are fixed in a fixing unit situated downstream from the false twisting unit. The twisting stop downstream of the fixing unit is moved synchronously with the yarn and held in a yarn engagement position to stop the twisting until at least the twisting inversion points is fixed in the yarn. At least one other twisting stop oriented at a distance from the above mentioned moving twisting stop is engaged with the yarn in a way to stop the twisting and is moved along with the yarn before said yarn is submitted to an opposite twisting by the false twisting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Saurer-Allma GmbH
    Inventor: Markus Osterloh
  • Patent number: 6293081
    Abstract: A mark sensor and methods for detecting a core mark disposed on a fiber optic cable core having a core receiving area for receiving the fiber optic cable core. The mark sensor includes emitter/receiver sensor devices that can be disposed about the core receiving area for observing a portion of the core for detecting the core mark. The mark sensor can include a sensor positioning system for moving the sensors relative to the core receiving area. The sensor positioning system is operative to move the sensors upon insertion of the cable core in the core receiving area. The sensor positioning system can include a linkage to another mark sensor for transmitting sensor motion to the other mark sensor. Alternatively, the mark sensor can include stationary sensors that sweep the core with radiation, for example, a bar code reader. Methods for using the foregoing sensors can result in the direct or offset marking of reverse oscillation of lay areas in a fiber optic cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Siecor Operations, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew J. Grulick, Warren W. McAlpine
  • Patent number: 6240977
    Abstract: An improved assembly for alternating twist in yarn, utilizing a pair of air jets in which compressed air is supplied producing a vortex that causes the yarn passing therethrough to experience a torque about the yarn's longitudinal axis. This apparatus is used to provide an alternating twist to fill yarn as the yarn is being fed into the loom. The twisting unit operates by imparting “s” twist for a certain period of time while the yarn is in linear motion, followed by imparting a “z” twist for another certain period of time, in repeating fashion. The net twist in the yarn so treated is zero. Preferably, the twisting of the fill yarn is coordinated with the loom so that the twist direction is reversed prior to each successive filling insertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventor: Michael W. Gilpatrick
  • Patent number: 6226972
    Abstract: To provide a method and device with which Alternate Twisted Yarn can be produced simply and inexpensively. An Alternate Twisted Yarn is produced by alternately repeating with a neutral and tilt switching method and twisting yarn 1 in the reverse direction on both sides of pulley 2 driven by yarn 1 that is inserted between the flanges of pulley 2, so that the yarn passage is bent or flexed. Shaft 3 of this pulley 2 is inclined to the yarn 1 yarn passage plane to bring yarn 1 into contact with the flange section 2a's internal surface of pulley 2, and in the neutral position under which yarn 1 is not twisted on both sides of pulley 2, with shaft 3 of pulley 2 being made perpendicular to the yarn 1 yarn passage plane to cut off its contact to the pulley 2 flange section 2a's internal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Izumi International, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazuyoshi Kida
  • Patent number: 6195975
    Abstract: A process of producing an assembled yarn, including the steps of providing two or more yarns moving downstream from a supply to a take-up, inserting alternating-direction zones of twist into at least one of the yarns, the at least one yarn having an area of zero twist between said alternating direction zones of twist, combining the at least two yarns to form a single, integrated yarn strand, and intermittently exposing the yarn strand to an air blast to create a zone of intermingled yarns at spaced-apart points along the length of the yarn strand to prevent torsional movement of one yarn relative to the other yarn. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of exposing the yarn strand to an air blast includes the step of intermingling the yarns at the areas of zero twist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Belmont Textile Machinery Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Lowe Hand, Kurt Willy Niederer, Robert Edward Taylor, Ralph Samuel Jenkins, Jeffrey Todd Rhyne
  • Patent number: 6190246
    Abstract: Perforated sheet steel or wire mesh to which tungsten carbide grit is copper braze welded to provide a device which can be cut to a desired size and shaped into or used as a substrate for tools used for sanding, filing, grinding, deburring, deflashing, cutting, sawing, filing and the like. The sheet steel being perforated provides apertures or recesses wherein removed material can collect and/or pass through reducing the clogging of the grit and frequency of cleaning the working surface of the tool or device. The apertures also provide for the flow of air, cooling the device in certain applications. Tungsten carbide gritted wire mesh is particularly good in providing a surface which tends to renew itself due to grit adhering to the side of the wire strands but not such as to clog the holes. Welding the grit to the wire mesh or cloth also causes the strands of the cloth to be welded together providing for a strong, yet flexible device or substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventors: Brian H. Parrott, Roger W. Mason
  • Patent number: 6089009
    Abstract: A process of producing an assembled yarn, including the steps of providing two or more yarns moving downstream from a supply to a take-up, inserting alternating-direction zones of twist into at least one of the yarns, the at least one yarn having an area of zero twist between said alternating direction zones of twist, combining the at least two yarns to form a single, integrated yarn strand, and intermittently exposing the yarn strand to an air blast to create a zone of intermingled yarns at spaced-apart points along the length of the yarn strand to prevent torsional movement of one yarn relative to the other yarn. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of exposing the yarn strand to an air blast includes the step of intermingling the yarns at the areas of zero twist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Belmont Textile Machinery Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Lowe Hand, deceased, Kurt Willy Niederer, Robert Edward Taylor, Ralph Samuel Jenkins, Jeffrey Todd Rhyne
  • Patent number: 6052891
    Abstract: An electrical power cable includes plastic-insulated conductors and a single wire, which is enveloped by a lengthwise incoming insulating tape and is twisted together with the conductors, all of which are surrounded by a common sheath. The conductors and the single wire are twisted together with alternating stroke directions (SZ), and the tape is loosely placed around the single wire in the form of a strand with opposing edges of the tape having alternating directions of rotation along the length of the strand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Frisch Kabel - und Verseilmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Friedhelm Kumpf
  • Patent number: 6052983
    Abstract: An apparatus for inserting twist into a moving strand, including a first body including an orifice extending therethrough for permitting passage of a moving yarn. An air channel extends therethrough and communicates with the orifice. The air channel communicates with the orifice at a tangentially-offset angle to the path of the yarn through the orifice to create a cyclonic air circulation pattern in the orifice to insert a predetermined direction of twist into the yarn as the yarn passes through the orifice. The first body is adapted for being inverted relative to, and placed in overlying registration with, a second like body whereby the air channel of the first body inserts one predetermined direction of twist into the yarn and the air channel of the second body inserts another predetermined direction of twist into the yarn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Belmont Textile Machinery Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin E. Moran, Kurt Willy Niederer, Robert Edward Taylor, Ralph Samuel Jenkins, Jeffrey Todd Rhyne
  • Patent number: RE45243
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a towel, specifically a low twist towel, comprising the following steps: Z twisting a thick yarn and separately Z twisting a fine count yarn; unevenly S twisting the Z-twisted yarns to make the volume of the thick yarn more than that of the fine count; weaving the yarn to produce a fabric; processing the fabric with hot water to reduce inner tension in the yarn and make the fabric become fluffy. Fabric produced by this method can solve the dependency on PVA, reduce energy consumption and material consumption, and prevent water pollution. This method for producing a low twist towel is environmentally friendly, healthy, and energy saving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Loftex USA LLC
    Inventor: Hongxing Wang