Abstract: A method and apparatus to centrally collect measured values of a variable parameter from each of a plurality of work stations, and so as to facilitate quality control. Each work stations includes a sensor for generating an output signal which is a function of the variable parameter, and the output signal is converted to digital signals, which represent discrete increments within the measuring range of the variable parameter. The digital signals are stored during a predetermined period of time in a memory unit so as to be available for periodic scanning by the central computer, after which the stored signals are cleared so that the memory unit is free to record the values during the next period of time. Also, circuitry is provided whereby only the extreme values of the output signalsd ar stored, together with the mean value, which are adequate to provide a complete statement of the quality of the process and product being monitored.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for winding textile yarns into core-supported packages is provided in which the formation of thickened and hardened places in the yarn packages at opposite ends thereof are avoided by a recurrent series of stroke modification cycles in which the length of traverse stroke is varied aperiodically as determined by a random number sequence. Additionally, the formation of undesirable patterns in the windings of yarn forming such packages is avoided by continuously varying the speed of traverse of the yarn guide by accelerating and decelerating the traversing yarn guide between predetermined maximum and minimum speeds. The stroke modification cycles and traverse motion speed changes are coordinated in such manner that the periods of high traverse motion speed coincide with the periods of short traverse stroke length and vice versa.