Theoretical modelling of can-spring mechanism using bond graph

Abstract

Helical compression springs are extensively used for the combed cotton sliver handling system in spinning preparatory sections in the textile industry. Storage can-spring stiffness decreases with time due to prolonged fatigue loading. It has been found that older storage can-springs of reduced spring stiffness deform non-uniformly during combed sliver deposition and withdrawal. In order to produce consistent quality of an intermediate delicate product like combed sliver, sliver stresses should be monitored meticulously at the time of sliver deposition and withdrawal from storage cans. The present research is an attempt to study the dynamics of the can-spring mechanism used for sliver storage through the bond graph approach. The paper records the first stage of the work, which is concerned with establishing the relationship between spring stiffness and sliver forces. Bond graph modelling of the can-spring mechanism is one of thebest-suited approaches to study the present research problem due to its characteristic features.