Level Winder provides smooth, even spooling.
Press Release Summary:
Level Winding System uses sensors to detect wire at spool flanges and to control traverse reversal points, eliminating need for operator to set end stops on Uhing rolling ring traverse assembly. Sensor pulley assembly is supported by linear slide, which protects bearings from overload. Motor that drives spool rotation is linked to traverse drive shaft by belt and pulley system, automatically synchronizing linear movement with spool rotation.Original Press Release:
OEM Develops Enhanced Rolling Ring Winding System
-- improves level winding capability
Aston, PA, November 2003 - Alternate Mechanical Drives (AMD) in Atlanta, Georgia, has introduced a level winder that improves winding accuracy by integrating inexpensive sensor technology with a Uhing rolling ring traverse assembly. The resulting level winding system results in smooth, even spooling with no material build-up or "valleys" at the spool flanges. Using sensors to detect the wire or other material at the spool flanges, and to control the traverse reversal points, eliminates the need for the operator to set the end stops on the Uhing assembly. This improves accuracy and saves time.
As the material being wound reaches the spool flange, a sensor pulley is displaced. The pulley movement is monitored by proximity sensors which send a signal to pneumatic cylinders mounted on the Uhing traverse reversal mechanism. The PLC-controlled cylinders trigger the mechanism causing reversal of the traverse. The system may also be set to provide precise slow-down, ramp-up and dwell at the reversal points as application requirements arise.
AMD's level winder eliminates the need to incorporate servo control components which can add cost and complexity to the set-up. The sensor pulley assembly is supported by a linear slide. This protects the bearings in the Uhing traverse from being overloaded, and prevents twisting of the traverse guide rails and supports.
The same motor used to drive spool rotation is linked to the traverse drive shaft by a belt and pulley system. Driving the Uhing traverse in this manner automatically synchronizes its linear movement with spool rotation. This does away with gear reducing mechanisms and further assures even placement of laylines on the spool.
The AMD winding system is easily retrofitted without requiring significant re-design. For more information contact Tom Dahl at AMD (Tel: 770-396-0500; email: amd-inc@mindspring.com), or contact Amacoil (email: amacoil@amacoil.com; web: www.amacoil.com).
