Patent Publication Number: US-2022214106-A1

Title: Treatment system

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to the processing of continuous flow of an elongate windable element. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The processing of elongate windable elements such as fiber or synthetic threads, as used in the textile industry, wire filaments and the like, is well known. Such processing may be required for the purpose of applying different types of treatment, such as dyeing, coating and the like, or as part of a continuous feed of such elements along a production line, for example, in the textile industry. 
     Examples of systems which process thread are the present Applicant&#39;s WO 2017/013651 entitled An Integrated System and Method for Treating a Thread and Using Thereof, and WO 2017/203524 entitled System, Machine and Method for Treating Threads or Parts Thereof. 
     SUMMARY 
     In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a treatment unit for treating a continuously through-flowing elongate windable element, wherein the unit includes: 
     (a) a substantially sealed enclosure for containing a gaseous environment, the enclosure having an inlet port for the continuous ingress of an elongate windable element and an outlet port for the continuous egress of treated elongate windable element; 
     (b) treatment apparatus located within the enclosure, for treating the elongate windable element therein; and 
     (c) a spatial loading system located within the enclosure, for continuous collection of the elongate windable element within the enclosure, and for conveying the elongate windable element from the inlet port to the outlet port. 
     Additionally, treatment by the treatment apparatus causes a release of materials sought to be contained into the interior of the enclosure, and the treatment unit also includes pressure-reducing apparatus within the enclosure for preventing the exhaustion of the materials sought to be contained from within the enclosure to the exterior thereof. 
     Further, the pressure-reducing apparatus is operative to cause a localized reduction in pressure within the enclosure. 
     Additionally, the pressure-reducing apparatus includes a blower for gas circulation within the enclosure, operative to cause a reduction in pressure in an area adjacent to the inlet port. 
     Further, the treatment unit also includes: a suction device for removing gas from the interior of the enclosure; and 
     apparatus for collecting the materials sought to be contained so as to prevent their release into the atmosphere exterior to the enclosure. 
     Additionally, the spatial loading system is operative to convey the elongate windable element through the enclosure at a rate predetermined so as to expose it to treatment by the treatment apparatus for a predetermined dwell time. 
     Further, the inlet and outlet ports are spaced apart by a predetermined linear distance, the spatial loading system includes one or more loading members having a non-linear loading surface for winding the elongate windable element therealong along a non-linear loading path, 
     and wherein the length of the loading path is of a magnitude which is at least three times the linear distance between the inlet and outlet ports. 
     Additionally, the one or more loading members have a generally cylindrical surface for receiving the elongate windable element in a wound arrangement. 
     Further, one or more of the loading members is revolvable, and the spatial loading system also includes a drive for rotation thereof. 
     Additionally, the non-linear loading path is serpentine. 
     Further, the one or more loading members are a plurality of discrete loading members defining nodes along the serpentine loading path. 
     Additionally, the plurality of discrete loading members includes first and second opposing arrangements of discrete loading members, and wherein on loading, the elongate windable element becomes wound alternately about opposing loading members of each of the first and second arrangements, along the serpentine loading path. 
     Additionally, the inlet port is a slotted opening for the lateral insertion of a length of the elongate winding element into the treatment unit; 
     the first arrangement of discrete loading members is arranged in a predetermined mutual spatial relationship relative to the slotted opening so as to receive the elongate winding element therefrom; 
     the second arrangement of discrete loading members is movable relative to the first arrangement and the slotted opening between a first position and a second position, 
     wherein, in the first position, the second arrangement is disposed such that the slotted opening is disposed between the first and second arrangements, 
     and in the second position, the second arrangement is disposed distally from the slotted opening such that the first arrangement is positioned therebetween; 
     wherein each loading member of each of the first and second arrangements is spaced apart so as to enable passage of the second arrangement of discrete loading members through the first arrangement of discrete loading members when moving between the first and second positions; and 
     wherein when the second arrangement is located in the first position and a length of the elongate windable element is introduced laterally through the slotted opening so as to overlie the first arrangement of discrete loading members, the second arrangement is operative to translate towards the second position, through the first arrangement of discrete loading members, towards the second position, so as to engage the elongate windable element and to pull it through the members of the first arrangement along the serpentine loading path. 
     In accordance with a further embodiment, the spatial loading system also includes a rotational winding arm for engaging the elongate windable element so as to wind it around the one or more loading members. 
     Additionally, the loading path is helical, and the one or more loading members are configured to receive the elongate windable element thereabout in a helical arrangement, of which adjacent coils are non-touching. 
     Further, the exterior of each of the one or more loading members is contoured so as to define the helical loading path. 
     Additionally, the spatial loading system also includes: 
     a drive; 
     a transmission for transmitting a rotational motion from the drive to the rotational winding arm; and 
     a controller for controlling the operation of the drive, the controller operative to adjust the drive in a manner so as to adjust the dynamic conditions at which the spatial loading system collects and conveys the elongate windable element from the inlet port to the outlet port of the enclosure. 
     Further, the controller is operable to normally operate the drive in a direction so as to cause loading of the elongate windable element by the spatial loading system, and wherein the controller is further selectably operable to operate the drive in reverse, thereby to cause unloading of the elongate windable element from the spatial loading system. 
     Additionally, one or more of the loading members is revolvable, and wherein the transmission is also operative to transmit thereto, a second rotational motion from the drive. 
     Further, there are provided a plurality of generally cylindrical loading members mounted for rotation about a central axis. 
     Additionally, the spatial loading system is mounted within the enclosure onto a central support axis defining the central axis and is adapted for selectable rotation thereabout. 
     Further, the treatment apparatus includes at least two mutually independently operable treatment sources for treating the elongate flexible element in at least two mutually independent treatment zones. 
     Additionally, one or more of the treatment sources is a temperature treatment apparatus. 
     Further, two or more of the treatment sources are mounted within the enclosure and are mutually independently operable, each being operable at a selected temperature so as to define at least two independently controllable temperature treatment regions within the enclosure. 
     Additionally, the elongate flexible element is marked with a marking substance and after entry into the enclosure through the inlet port, the spatial loading system is operative to expose the substance bearing elongate flexible element to a predetermined treatment by the treatment apparatus for a desired dwell time. 
     Further, the elongate flexible element is a dyed thread, the treatment unit is a dryer, and the treatment apparatus includes one or more heat sources operative to dry the thread prior to its egress from the dryer. 
     In accordance with an additional embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a substantially sealed enclosure for the through-processing of a continuously through-flowing elongate flexible element bearing a treatable substance which emits materials sought to be contained during treatment in the enclosure, which includes: 
     (a) a plurality of walls defining an interior; 
     (b) an inlet port for the continuous ingress of an elongate flexible element into the interior; 
     (c) an outlet port for the continuous egress of the treated elongate flexible element; 
     (d) treatment apparatus located within the enclosure, for treating the elongate windable element therein, giving rise to the release of materials sought to be contained within the enclosure; and 
     (e) pressure-reducing apparatus operative to cause a localized reduction in pressure within the enclosure. 
     Additionally, the pressure-reducing apparatus includes a blower for gas circulation within the enclosure, operative to cause a reduction in pressure in an area adjacent to the inlet port. 
     Further, the substantially sealed enclosure also includes: 
     a suction device for removing gas from the interior of the enclosure; and 
     apparatus for collecting the materials sought to be contained so as to prevent their release into the atmosphere exterior to the enclosure. 
     In accordance with a further embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a collection unit for handling of a continuous through flow of an elongate windable element, the collection unit including: 
     (a) an enclosure for the through-processing of a continuously through-flowing elongate windable element, the enclosure having an inlet port for the continuous ingress of the elongate windable element and an outlet port for the continuous egress of the elongate windable element; and 
     (b) a spatial loading system located within the enclosure, for continuous collection and paying out of the elongate windable element within the enclosure, and for conveying the elongate windable element from the inlet port to the outlet port. 
     Additionally, the inlet and outlet ports are spaced apart by a predetermined linear distance, the spatial loading system includes one or more loading members having a non-linear loading surface for winding the elongate windable element therealong along a non-linear loading path, 
     and wherein the length of the loading path is of a magnitude which is at least three times the linear distance between the inlet and outlet ports. 
     Further, each of the one or more loading members has a generally cylindrical surface for receiving the elongate windable element in a wound arrangement. 
     Additionally, one or more of the loading members is revolvable, and the spatial loading system also includes a drive for rotation thereof. 
     Further, the non-linear loading path is serpentine. 
     Additionally, the one or more loading members include a plurality of discrete loading members defining nodes along the serpentine loading path. 
     Further, the plurality of discrete loading members includes first and second opposing arrangements of discrete loading members, and wherein on loading, the elongate windable element becomes wound alternately about opposing loading members of each of the first and second arrangements, along the serpentine loading path. 
     Additionally, the inlet port is a slotted opening for the lateral insertion of a length of the elongate winding element into the enclosure; 
     the first arrangement of discrete loading members is arranged in a predetermined mutual spatial relationship relative to the slotted opening so as to receive the elongate winding element therefrom; 
     the second arrangement of discrete loading members is movable relative to the first arrangement and the slotted opening between a first position and a second position, 
     wherein, in the first position, the second arrangement is disposed such that the slotted opening is disposed between the first and second arrangements, 
     and in the second position, the second arrangement is disposed distally from the slotted opening such that the first arrangement is positioned therebetween; 
     wherein each loading member of each of the first and second arrangements is spaced apart so as to enable passage of the second arrangement of discrete loading members through the first arrangement of discrete loading members when moving between the first and second positions; and 
     wherein when the second arrangement is located in the first position and a length of the elongate windable element is introduced laterally through the slotted opening so as to overlie the first arrangement of discrete loading members, the second arrangement is operative to translate towards the second position, through the first arrangement of discrete loading members, towards the second position, so as to engage the elongate windable element and to pull it through the members of the first arrangement along the serpentine loading path. 
     In accordance with yet a further embodiment, the spatial loading system also includes a rotational winding arm for engaging the elongate windable element so as to wind it around the one or more loading members. 
     Additionally, the loading path is helical, and the one or more loading members are configured to receive the elongate windable element thereabout in a helical arrangement, of which adjacent coils are non-touching. 
     Further, the exterior of each of the one or more loading members is contoured so as to define the helical loading path. 
     Additionally, the spatial loading system also includes: 
     a drive; 
     a transmission for transmitting a rotational motion from the drive to the rotational winding arm; and 
     a controller for controlling the operation of the drive, 
     the controller operative to adjust the drive in a manner so as to adjust the dynamic conditions at which the spatial loading system collects the elongate windable element and conveys the elongate windable element from the inlet port to the outlet port of the enclosure. 
     Further, the controller is operable to normally operate the drive in a direction so as to cause loading of the elongate windable element by the spatial loading system, and wherein the controller is further selectably operable to operate the drive in reverse, thereby to cause unloading of the elongate windable element from the spatial loading system. 
     Additionally, one or more of the loading members is revolvable, and wherein the transmission is also operative to transmit a second rotational motion thereto, from the drive. 
     Further, there are provided a plurality of generally cylindrical loading members mounted for rotation about a central axis. 
     Additionally, the spatial loading system is mounted within the enclosure onto a central support axis defining the central axis and is adapted for selectable rotation thereabout. 
     In accordance with yet a further embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a multi-station system of processing a continuous throughflow of an elongate windable element, which includes: 
     (a) at least first and second treatment units for the through flow and treatment of an elongate windable element, the second treatment unit being operable to normally receive from the first treatment unit an outflow of elongate windable element treated therein in a continuous process, 
     wherein the first treatment unit is operative to emit therefrom the elongate windable element at a first rate of travel, and the second treatment unit is operative to intake the elongate windable element at a second rate of travel, and 
     wherein the first and second rates are different one from the other; and 
     (b) a collection unit disposed between the at least first and second units, adapted for selectably receiving and collecting a throughflow of the elongate windable element from the first treatment unit at the first rate, and for providing the elongate windable element to the second treatment unit at the second rate, wherein the collection unit is operative to selectively collect the through flowing element at a rate selected to change the rate of travel of the through flowing element from the first rate to the second rate. 
     Additionally, each of the at least first and second treatment units is constructed and operative in accordance with any of the treatment units disclosed herein. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are generally chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale. The figures are listed below. 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram of a multi-station processing system for treating an elongate windable element in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic block diagram of a multi-station processing system for the preparation of articles of manufacture formed of colored fabric or thread, including a dyeing station and a dryer; 
         FIG. 3A  is a generalized schematic diagram of a treatment unit, such as the dryer of  FIG. 2 , constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3B  is similar to  FIG. 3A , except including a plurality of treatment zones within the unit; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of a spatial loading system for collection and paying out of an elongate windable element, as used in the systems and units of  FIGS. 1-3B , in accordance with a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic illustration of a spatial loading system for collection and paying out of an elongate windable element, as used in the systems and units of  FIGS. 1-3B , in accordance with a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a treatment unit employing a serpentine spatial loading system as depicted in  FIG. 4 , implemented as a dryer unit for a multi-station system for dyeing thread; 
         FIG. 7  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the dryer unit of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a lateral cross-sectional view of the dryer unit of  FIG. 6 , perpendicular to the view of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIGS. 9A and 9B  are rear and front views, respectively, of the serpentine spatial loading system of  FIGS. 6-8 ; 
         FIG. 10A  is a partially cut-away top view of the dryer unit of  FIG. 6 , prior to feeding thereinto of a dyed thread; 
         FIG. 10B  is an enlarged partially cut-away top view of the dryer unit of  FIG. 6 , showing initial placement of a dyed thread onto a first set of loading members of the serpentine spatial loading system therein; 
         FIG. 11A  is a schematic representation of first and second sets of the serpentine spatial loading system of  FIGS. 4 and 6-10B , in a non-loaded position; 
         FIG. 11B  shows the system of  FIG. 11A  during initial loading of an elongate flexible element; 
         FIG. 11C  shows the system of  FIGS. 11A and 11B  after initial loading thereof; 
         FIG. 11D  shows the system of  FIGS. 11A-11C  when fully loaded; 
         FIG. 11E  is a schematic illustration showing the taking up of elongate flexible element by a single discrete loading member; 
         FIG. 12A  is a perspective view of a treatment unit employing a rotational spatial loading system as depicted in  FIG. 5 , implemented as a dryer unit for a multi-station system for dyeing thread; 
         FIG. 12B  is a partially cut away view of the treatment unit  FIG. 12A , with the inlet port in an open state; 
         FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C  are respective front, rear and side views of the treatment unit as seen in  FIG. 12B ; 
         FIG. 14  is a partially cut away view of the treatment unit of  FIGS. 12A-13C ; 
         FIG. 15A  is a diagrammatic side view of the rotational winding arm of  FIGS. 12A-14 , showing its rotational path while winding the elongate flexible element onto the rotational spatial loading system of  FIGS. 12A-14 ; 
         FIG. 15B  is a front view of the rotational winding arm of  FIGS. 12A-14 , showing translation of the winding head along the winding arm, resulting in a helical winding of the elongate flexible element onto the loading members of the rotational spatial loading system; 
         FIGS. 15C and 15D  are schematic views showing winding of the elongate flexible element onto the loading members of the rotational spatial loading system; 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic block diagram of a multi-station process for processing an elongate windable element in an uninterrupted manner; and 
         FIG. 17  is a schematic block diagram of a buffer unit as seen in  FIG. 16 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The terms used herein denote also inflections and conjugates thereof. Unless otherwise noted, technical terms are used according to conventional usage. Unless otherwise explained, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The singular terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the word “or” is intended to include “and” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of this disclosure, suitable methods and materials are described below. The term “comprises” means “includes.” The abbreviation, “e.g.” is derived from the Latin exempli gratia and is used herein to indicate a non-limiting example. Thus, the abbreviation “e.g.” is synonymous with the term “for example.” 
     In case of conflict, the present specification, including explanations of terms, will control. In addition, all the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative and not intended to be limiting. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , there is a provided a multi-station processing system, indicated generally by reference numeral  10 , for treating an elongate windable element  12  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Element  12  may be a fiber or synthetic thread, as used, for example, in the textile industry, a wire filament or wires requiring surface coatings, or indeed any other type of windable element that may lend itself to a continuous through processing as described herein. 
     In its most general form, system  10  includes a plurality of processing stations through which element  12  flows substantially continuously. 
     As seen in  FIG. 2 , in one embodiment, processing system  10  may be a system for treating an element  12  with a marking substance requiring a post-marking treatment, and, more specifically, a thread dyeing system including, but not limited to, a dyeing station  14  and a dryer  16 . There may also be other stations upstream of dyeing station  14 , and one or more optional downstream stations N, for further processing the thread and, optionally, for collecting the dyed and dried thread or for feeding into fabric manufacturing and processing stations (not shown). Such systems may be, by way of non-limiting examples, those disclosed in WO 2017/013651 entitled An Integrated System and Method for Treating a Thread and Using Thereof, and WO 2017/203524 entitled System, Machine and Method for Treating Threads or Parts Thereof. 
     Dyeing station  14  is generally intended to mean a station for applying a dye to a thread, for example, as described in the above-referenced WO 2017/013651, and dryer  16  is intended to mean a treatment unit into which dyed thread enters in a continuous throughflow from dyeing station  14 , undergoes a drying process as described below, and thereafter exits. It will thus be appreciated that unless specified to the contrary, the terms ‘treatment unit’ and ‘dryer’ are used interchangeably herein. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3A , there is shown a treatment unit, such as the dryer  16  of  FIG. 2 . From the description below, it will be appreciated that treatment unit  16  has a number of advantages, including its ability to treat element  12  during a predetermined dwell time within unit  16 , as it passes therethrough, and the ability to contain certain process materials that may be released into the interior gaseous environment of unit  16  during the treatment. 
     As seen in  FIG. 3A , unit  16  includes a substantially sealed enclosure  20 , a spatial loading system  100  for collection and paying out of element  12  for treatment within unit  16 , and along which element  12  travels before leaving the enclosure, and apparatus for treating the element  12 , as described below. 
     It will be appreciated that unit  16  is not limited by scale or size. Accordingly, enclosure  20  within which element  12  is collected, and within which a treatment may be provided as described herein, may be of any predetermined size, varying from a small tabletop device, to the size of a room or hall used for major industrial production. 
     Substantially sealed enclosure  20  has an inlet port  22  for the continuous ingress of elongate windable element  12  and an outlet port  24  for the continuous egress of treated elongate windable element. Preferably, there is also provided a gas exit  26 , a suction device  28  for removing gas from the interior  30  of enclosure  20 , and containing apparatus  32  for process materials sought to be contained and prevented from exiting into the environment outside enclosure  20   
     The treatment apparatus disposed within enclosure  20  is a function of the treatment required. In the present example, in which unit  16  is a dryer, the treatment required may be temperature related, such that apparatus  34  may be a heater or a cooler; or any other type of treatment which may be beneficial to element  12  flowing through unit  16   
     Optionally, in accordance with some embodiments, there may also be provided a blower  36  for circulating the gas environment within enclosure  20 , as indicated by arrows  38 . 
     In accordance with a preferred embodiment, for example, as shown and described in conjunction with  FIGS. 12A-15  below, blower  36  is configured and operative so as to locally reduce the pressure within the interior of enclosure  20 , and particularly in the area close to inlet port  22  and outlet port  24 , to a pressure that is sub-atmospheric. It will thus be appreciated that while, in the presently described embodiment enclosure  20  is not mechanically sealed, it is however deemed to be substantially sealed in as far as, due to the pressure reduction in the vicinity of inlet port  22 , outlet port  24  and gas exit  26 , process materials that may be emitted from the treated element  12  into the gas environment of enclosure  20  as it passes therethrough are prevented from exiting into the ambient atmosphere outside enclosure  20  and contained therewithin, as described above. 
     The treatment unit  16  generally, when in use as a dryer, and spatial loading system  100  in particular, are described in detail hereinbelow, in accordance with various embodiments, in conjunction with  FIGS. 4-15B . 
     Referring now briefly to  FIG. 3B , there is shown a unit  16  which is generally similar to that shown and described above in conjunction with  FIG. 3A , of which common or similar features are denoted with the same reference numerals as used in  FIG. 3A , and which is not described specifically herein except with regard to the differences between the two illustrated unit. 
     In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 3B , unit  16  may be used to provide a plurality of different treatment zones within enclosure  20 . Thus, by way of non-limiting example, three such zones are depicted, denoted as zones 1, 2 and 3. In one example, zones 1, 2 and 3 may be at different temperatures, such as may result in a succession of temperature changes, whether relatively hot or cold. Furthermore, in another embodiment, one or more of the zones may have thereat another type of treatment apparatus, in conjunction with temperature treatment apparatus. The different treatment apparatus for each zone are referenced  34   a ,  34   b  and  34   c , respectively. 
     As described above, unit  16  includes a spatial loading system  100  for collection and paying out of element  12 . A particular feature of system  100  is that it facilitates the collection and throughflow of a length of the element  12  along a loading path which is at least triple, and may be significantly greater than the linear distance between the inlet and outlet ports of enclosure  20 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4  in which the spatial loading system, referenced  400 , is depicted as having a serpentine loading path  402 , the total length of the thread along the loading path is seen to be significantly greater than the distance ‘x’ between the inlet and exits ports  22  and  24 . 
     Similarly, in  FIG. 5 , in which the spatial loading system, referenced  500 , is depicted as having a helical loading path  502 , the total length of the thread along the loading path is seen to be significantly greater than the distance ‘x’ between the inlet and exits ports  22  and  24 . 
     Reference is now made to  FIGS. 6-8 , in which is depicted a treatment unit employing a serpentine spatial loading system as depicted schematically in  FIG. 4  optionally implemented as a dryer unit  416  for a multi-station system for dyeing thread, as per  FIGS. 2-3B . Features of present dryer unit  416  that are generally similar to those shown and described above in conjunction with  FIG. 3A , are denoted by similar reference numerals but with the prefix “4” and are not specifically described again herein. 
     Dryer unit  416  has a generally flat configuration, in which enclosure  420  has a generally flat, rectangular configuration, having a removable cover  472 . Typically, a pair of generally flat heating elements  434  ( FIG. 7 ) are positioned to the interior of an optionally insulated rear panel  473  and cover  472  for drying element  12  passing through unit  416 . Optionally, there is also provided a suction device  428  ( FIG. 7 ) located at a lower portion of unit  416  for inducing a flow of gas away from the inlet port  422  and so as to remove gas from the interior of the enclosure as disclosed. 
     Referring now also to  FIGS. 9A-10B , a preferably slotted opening  473  is provided at an end portion  474  ( FIG. 7 ) of enclosure  420  so as to receive therethrough in intake of element  12 , as described below, by use of a pair of guide members  475  ( FIGS. 6-10B and 11B ). Clearly, the illustrated pair of guide members may be replaced by any other suitable guide means. 
     Referring now also to  FIGS. 11A-11D , serpentine spatial loading system  400 , whose operation is independent of the use of unit  416  as a dryer, per se, includes a first arrangement  480  of discrete loading members  481  mounted onto a first bridge member  482 ; and a second arrangement  483  of discrete loading members  484  mounted onto a second bridge member  485 . The two arrangements of discrete loading members,  480  and  483 , are arranged in a predetermined mutual spatial relationship relative to slotted opening  473  so as to receive element  12  therefrom. loading members  481  of first arrangement  480  may be rotated as by a motor  477  ( FIG. 7 ) and a suitable transmission, referenced generally  479 . One or more loading members  481  may be rotated by motor  477 , as required, so as to assist with the control of the throughflow of element  12  at desired dynamic conditions, such as tension and/or speed. Alternatively, loading members  481  may be mounted for passive rotation, on bearings, or static, optionally with a suitable low-friction coating. Loading members  484  of the second arrangement  483  may be similarly static, passively rotatable or motorized. In the present example, loading members  484  are passively rotatable, mounted on suitable bearings. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, first arrangement  480  is secured so as to have a position that is fixed relative to slotted opening  473 , such that when a length of element  12  is inserted laterally through opening  473  it overlies first arrangement  480  of discrete loading members  481  ( FIGS. 10B and 11B ). 
     Second bridge member  485  of second arrangement  483  is mounted, as seen particularly in  FIGS. 9A-9B , onto a pulley system, having a pair of belts or chains  488  each mounted about a pair of pulley wheels  489  affixed at opposite ends of the enclosure. The pulley system can be activated either manually, as by a handle  490 , or by a suitable motor (not shown) so as to move the second arrangement  483  between first and second extreme positions, in order to load the present serpentine spatial loading system. In the first position, seen in  FIG. 11B , second arrangement  483  is positioned distally from the first arrangement  480 , such that the slotted opening is disposed between the first and second arrangements. In the second position, seen in  FIG. 11D , second arrangement  483  is disposed distally from the slotted opening such that first arrangement  480  as illustrated. 
     It is further seen that the first and second arrangements  480  and  483  are spaced apart, as well as being staggered, one relative to the other, so as to enable passage of the second arrangement of discrete loading members through said first arrangement of discrete loading members when moving between the first and second positions 
     Referring now briefly to  FIG. 11E , so as to assist in preventing the element  12  from slipping off the discrete loading members  481  and  484  when engaged thereby, each loading member generally enlarged head portion  485  and a reduced diameter waist or neck portion  486 . As seen, for example, particularly in  FIGS. 10A and 10B , loading members  481  and  484  are provided as V-shaped ‘pin’ members. In a further embodiment, slippage of element  12  may alternatively be prevented by creating a surface with desired frictional properties on an otherwise cylindrical member. Preferably, however, and as further illustrated in  FIG. 11E , lateral engagement of a taut length of element  12  by a neck portion  486  of a loading member, seen at position (i), causes element  12  to be snagged thereby, such that a subsequent continued movement of the loading member, indicated by arrow  487 , towards position (ii), pulls the element  12  along with it. 
     Referring now particularly to  FIG. 11B , in order to load the system, second arrangement  483  is moved to its first position, as shown by arrow  491 , so as to be above both the first arrangement  480  and above the slotted opening  473 . Subsequently, a length of element  12  is inserted between the angled guide members  475 . As seen in  FIG. 11B , element  12  is initially moved from position (a), then successively to positions (b) and (c), as it is guided towards and through the slotted opening  473  so as to emerge therethrough in position (d), and laid across the top of the discrete loading members  481  of the first arrangement  480 . 
     The second arrangement  483  is then moved such that its loading members  484  pass through the first loading members  481 , so as to engage the element  12  in the manner shown and described in conjunction with  FIG. 11E , and thus to pull element  12  through the loading members of first arrangement  480 , as seen initially in  FIG. 11C , and more completely in  FIG. 11D , along serpentine loading path  402 , as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 12A-14 , there is provided, in accordance with an alternative embodiment, a treatment unit  516  for treating a continuous throughflow of an elongate, flexible element, such as elongated windable element  12  of  FIG. 1 . In the present example, unit  516  is implemented as a post-marking unit, as discussed above in conjunction with  FIG. 2 , for treating a continuously through-flowing marked substance, and more specifically, as a dryer (such as seen in  FIG. 2 ) for drying a continuously through-flowing dyed thread as may be received from dyeing station  14 . 
     Unit  516  includes a substantially sealed enclosure  520  for containing a gaseous environment, having an inlet port  602  ( FIG. 12B ) for the continuous ingress of an elongate windable element, and an outlet port  600  ( FIG. 12B ) for the continuous egress of treated elongate windable element. Enclosure  520  preferably has an access door  572  to provide an operator or a maintenance personnel with access to the interior of the enclosure so as to perform maintenance to the interior of treatment unit  516 . In the present embodiment, the inlet and outlet ports  602  and  600 , respectively, are seen to be constituted by opposite ends of a slotted opening  573  ( FIGS. 12B-14 ). A slidable closure member  604  ( FIGS. 12A-12B ) is mounted onto enclosure  520  for substantially sealing opening  573  after initial introduction thereinto of element  12 . Operation of closure member may be manual or as by use of a suitable drive, indicated schematically as  606 . 
     Treatment unit  516  houses a rotational spatial loading system  500  within enclosure  520 , for continuous collection and paying out of the elongate windable element therewithin, and for conveying the elongate windable element from inlet port  602  to outlet port  600  after a desired dwell time within enclosure  520 . The dwell time is determined, inter alia, according to the type of treatment performed within enclosure  520 , the material of which element  12  is composed, and the rate at which element  12  is passed through unit  516 . In accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 5  above, in which loading path  502  is generally helical, the herewith illustrated spatial loading system  500  has a plurality of generally cylindrical loading members or bobbins  616 . 
     As seen in  FIGS. 12B and 13C , bobbins  616  are preferably contoured, as by the provision of grooves, referenced generally as  640 , so as prevent touching of adjacent coils of the element  12  when wound therearound. In various embodiments of the invention, bobbins  616  may be smooth, contoured as shown, cylindrical or conical, and mounted at various non-mutually parallel angles, or any desired combination, so as to both ensure a precise positioning of element  12  as it is collected thereon, and preferably to prevent touching of adjacent coils of the element  12  when wound onto the bobbins. In accordance with an alternative embodiment, and as may be understood with reference to  FIGS. 15C and 15D  there may also be provided a comb or separator element (not shown), on or adjacent to one or more of bobbins  616 . This may be any type of bladed or toothed comb or separator known in the textile industry. One especially useful positioning of such a comb or separator element is where element  12  exits via exit port  600  (not shown) via guide  772 , along the path illustrated in  FIGS. 15C and 15D . 
     A winding system, referenced  630 , is also provided, in association with rotational spatial loading system  500 , for winding the flexible element  12  thereon, as described below. In the present embodiment, bobbins  616  are rotatable, as described below, and are distributed about a central axis  690  ( FIG. 14 ), which may also serve as a rotation axis of winding system  630 . One or more bobbins  616  may be rotatable independently, as required, so as to assist with the throughflow of element  12  at a desired tension and speed. Alternatively, one or more of the bobbins  616  may be mounted onto a base  615  for passive rotation, on bearings, or static but with a surface having desired frictional properties. 
     In the present example, each bobbin  616  is mounted for rotation about a bobbin axis  617 , which typically is its longitudinal axis of symmetry. 
     As seen in  FIG. 13B-13C , treatment unit  516  includes a winding drive  623  operative to drive winding system  630  thereby winding the flexible element  12  onto rotational spatial loading system  500 . A rotational driving force is transferred from winding drive  623  to winding system  630  via winding drive shaft  629  which is driven by winding transmission  642  connected to the output of winding drive  623 . 
     Treatment unit  516  also includes a rotation drive  625  operative to rotate bobbins  616  about their respective bobbin axes  617 . The direction of rotation is preferably opposite to the direction of winding, so as to reduce friction and tension on element  12 , as it is wound thereabout. Bobbins  616  are rotated by a rotational driving force which is transferred from rotation drive  625  to rotation gear  618  ( FIG. 14 ), via rotation transmission  641 , and then to rotation drive gear  627 . Drive element  618  is connected with loading members  616  by a driving chain or belt  672  or other suitable mechanism to transmit a drive force from a transmission  622 . 
     In the present example, in order to limit the number of access points between the interior and exterior of enclosure  520 , winding drive shaft  629  extends through the center of rotation drive gear  627 , such that a single access opening only, is required therefor. 
     A further advantage of having the spatial loading system  500  mounted on a single axis is the access that this facilitates to the system, for maintenance. When required, front cover  572  ( FIG. 12 ) may be removed, and system  500  rotated about axis  690  ( FIG. 14 ) to any desired position, thereby providing access to any desired portion of the system. 
     As mentioned briefly above and is illustrated in  FIG. 13C , a controller  800  is provided in order to control the operation of rotation drive  625  and of winding drive  623 , so as to actuate winding system  630  to wind the incoming element  12  onto spatial loading system, while rotating bobbins  616  in a corresponding direction. Controller  800  is operative to adjust rotation drive  625  in a manner so as to adjust the rate of travel and optionally, other dynamic conditions, such as the tension of element  12  at which it is collected by spatial loading system  500  from the inlet port  602  and conveys it to the outlet port  600  of the enclosure  520 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 14  and in more detail in  FIGS. 15A and 15B , winding system  630  is seen to typically wind elongate element  12  along a loading path  502 , illustrated in  FIG. 15A  in profile, which, as stated, is typically helical. As seen in  FIG. 14 , treatment unit  516  may be used as a buffer, whose primary use is to balance the speed of travel and optionally tension of element  12 , as it is fed from one upstream station to a subsequent downstream station, as described below in conjunction with  FIG. 16 . 
     Referring now in more detail to  FIGS. 15A-15D , elongate flexible element  12  is wound about loading system  500  and fed out therefrom by a winding pair which includes a leader element  720  and a static follower  771 . Static follower  771  is preferably a slotted end portion of winding arm  700 , and leader element  720  is mounted onto a guide screw  730  affixed perpendicular to winding arm  700  so as to rotate therewith. Rotation of winding arm  700  is operative to cause a corresponding rotation of both leader element  720  and static follower  771  in fixed mutual angular relationship, while, at the same time, there being a linear translation of leader element  720  towards static follower  771 , as described below. 
     It will be appreciated that while a specific direction of rotation of winding arm  700  is shown and described herein, for the winding accumulation of the element  12  within unit  516 , the direction of rotation of winding arm  700  may be reversed, so as to facilitate the unwinding of element  12 , and its paying it out in the opposite direction. 
     The described translation of leader element  720  along guide screw  730  is provided by the positioning of guide chain or belt  710  about gear wheel  705  ( FIGS. 15A-15B ) which is immovably secured to base  615  by a pair of rods  619  place and a corresponding element  715  ( FIG. 15B ) on guide screw  730 . With gear wheel  705  being fixed in position, rotation of winding arm  700  causes element  715  to rotate thereby causing a corresponding rotation of guide screw  730 . Alignment member  735  has a fixed mounting on static follower  771 , and extends freely through an opening (not shown) in leader element  720 . Accordingly, as guide screw  730  rotates, the resulting effect on leader element  720 , which, as mentioned, is threadingly mounted thereon, and is also prevented from relative rotation thereabout by alignment member  735  extending therethrough, is to displace leader element  720  along the guide screw  730 . 
     Static follower  771  of winding arm  700  has a groove formed thereon ( FIGS. 15C and 15D ) and received receive element  12  from inlet port  602  (not shown), and from there element  12  flows to leader element  720  from where it exits via exit port  600  (not shown) via guide  772 . Rotation of winding arm  700 , however, is operative to guide the element  12  along a helical winding path, while, as described above, leader element  720  is moved along guide screw  730  so as to wind the element about the bobbins  616  as illustrated in  FIGS. 15C and 15D . 
     It will be appreciated that the coiled accumulation of element  12  on rotational spatial loading system  500  is of a total length that is significantly greater than the distance between the inlet and exits ports  22  and  24  as described above in conjunction with  FIG. 5 . 
     Referring once again to  FIGS. 13A-13C , in the currently illustrated implementation as a dryer, unit  516  includes temperature treatment apparatus  534 , typically a heater, located within enclosure  520 , for drying the elongate windable element. It will be appreciated that treatment by the treatment apparatus may cause, as described above, a release of certain process materials that it is desired to contain. Accordingly, so as to substantially seal enclosure  520 , and prevent an uncontrolled exhaustion of the interior gaseous atmosphere from enclosure  520  to its exterior, there is provided pressure-reducing apparatus  536 , implemented herein as a blower, operative to cause a localized reduction in pressure adjacent to the inlet port  602 . 
     In the present embodiment, as seen, temperature treatment apparatus  534  and blower  536  ( FIGS. 12B-13B ) are positioned on a wall  610  of enclosure  520 , to the rear of a partition  614 . Air or other ambient gas within enclosure  520  is heated by heater  534  circulated by blower  536 , through an opening  612  provided in partition  614  (seen also in  FIG. 12B ), and thereafter about rotational spatial loading system  500  in the direction indicated by arrows  651  in  FIG. 13A . 
     In certain embodiments, controller  800  can be operable by at least one processor configured to execute software. In certain embodiments, controller  800  can be operably by a plurality of electric switches operable according to an embedded software in controller  800 . Treatment unit  516  can include a sensor  590  arranged within enclosure  520  to collect measurements, for example, temperature, humidity, presence of a predetermined gas and/or the like. Sensor  590  is operative to communicate with controller  800  to facilitate the operation of treatment unit  516  by controller  800 . For example, controller can operate blower  536  to increase or decrease the amount of hot air blown into gaseous environment according to a temperature measurement of the sensor  590  to ensure optimal temperature in the enclosure  520  for treatment of the element  12 . Controller  800  can provide the information to an output (not shown), such as a display, thereby facilitating an operator of treatment unit  516  to track the conditions of the gaseous environment. Based on the information, the at least one processor or the operator, via controller  800 , can operate treatment unit  516  to provide the desired treatment to the elongate windable element. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 16 , illustrating a multi-station system  1010 , generally similar to system  10 , shown and described above in conjunction with  FIG. 1 . However, element  12  may egress each station at certain dynamic conditions, such as rate of travel and tension, which may not necessarily be equal to the desired rate of travel and tension as for ingress into the subsequent, downstream station. 
     In order to compensate for these potential differences, there are provided one or more buffer units  1012 , for the purpose of optimizing processing of through flowing element  12 . Buffer units  1012 , illustrated schematically in  FIG. 17 , include an enclosure  1020 , inlet and outlet ports  1022  and  1024 , respectively, and a spatial loading system  1001 , such as system  400  or  500  as shown and described above in conjunction with  FIGS. 3A-15D . It also envisaged that this function may be provided by one or more of the treatment units  416  or  516  shown described above, in a multi-station system. 
     It will thus be appreciated that when sought to change the dynamic conditions, such as, rate of travel and/or tension of the through flowing element  12 , a given buffer unit  1012 , receiving element  12  at a first rate of travel and/or tension, may be operated to selectively accumulate and pay out element  12  at a second rate of travel and/or tension, different from the first rate of travel and/or tension, but equal to the rate of travel and/or tension suitable for the intake of the downstream station. 
     The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.