Patent Publication Number: US-2023143253-A1

Title: Methods And Devices For Transporting Yarn

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/396,126, filed Aug. 6, 2021, which claims priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/062,023, filed Aug. 6, 2020, the entirety of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     This application is directed to devices, systems, and methods for transporting yarn. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Yarn is conventionally transported on yarn packages, or yarn cones, that are stacked (e.g., in three layers of twelve yarn packages per layer) and transported from a heatset tunnel to a creel for further processing. A yarn package can often weigh between ten and twenty pounds. Thus, a substantial amount of labor is required to handle and transport the yarn packages from the heatset tunnel to the creel. Additionally, creels take up large amounts of space (having a cost associated therewith), and can be an ergonomic concern, requiring operators to work over their heads to load heavy yarn packages. Accordingly, an alternative to using a creel is desirable. 
     SUMMARY 
     Disclosed herein, in one aspect, is a system that can comprise a plurality of containers that are coupled together as a movable unit and a plurality of container-feeding assemblies that are configured to simultaneously deliver respective yarns into respective containers of the plurality of containers. 
     In another aspect, a method can comprise delivering a first plurality of yarns into respective containers. The header can be a first header. The retainer can be secured to the first header to fix the respective yarns of the first plurality of yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the first header. The first plurality of yarns can be severed so that each yarn of the first plurality of yarns has a first end within a respective container and an opposing loose end, wherein the clamp is secured to the first header between the first ends and the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns. The movable unit can be positioned proximate to a second header of a tufting machine. The tufting machine can have a second plurality of yarns thereon. Each yarn of the second plurality of yarns on the tufting machine can have a respective beginning end. The first header can be aligned with the second header so that the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns are aligned with respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns on the tufting machine. Respective loose ends of the first plurality of yarns in the containers can be coupled to respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns of the tufting machine. 
     In another aspect, a system can comprise a warp beam machine that is configured to wind a plurality of yarns received from one or more heatset apparatus around a warp beam. A header can be configured to receive yarn ends of the yarns in the plurality of containers. The header can have a longitudinal axis. A retainer can be configured to extend across the header along the longitudinal axis to secure the respective yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis. 
     In another aspect, a method can comprise winding a first plurality of yarns onto the warp beam. The header can be a first header. The clamp can be secured to the first header to fix the respective yarns of the first plurality of yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the header. The first plurality of yarns can be severed so that each yarn of the first plurality of yarns has a loose end proximate the first header, wherein the first header and clamp are fixed together between the warp beam and the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns. The warp beam can be positioned proximate to a second header of a tufting machine. The tufting machine can have a second plurality of yarns thereon. Each yarn of the second plurality of yarns on the tufting machine can have a respective beginning end. The first header can be aligned with the second header so that the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns are aligned with respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns on the tufting machine. Respective loose ends of yarns of the first plurality of yarns on the warp beam can be coupled to respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns of the tufting machine. 
     In another aspect, a method can comprise delivering a first plurality of yarns into respective containers. The first plurality of yarns can be severed so that each yarn of the first plurality of yarns has a loose end. The movable unit can be transported to a twisting machine, the twisting machine comprising at least one twister. Pairs of loose ends of yarns of the first plurality of yarns can be fed into respective twisters of the twisting machine. 
     Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a schematic diagram of a system for providing yarn into a yarn transport module. 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of a yarn transport module in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG.  3    is a rear end view of a yarn transport module in communication with a plurality of aspirators for providing yarn into containers of the transport module. 
         FIG.  4    is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of containers of a yarn transport module. 
         FIG.  5    is a schematic partial perspective view of a plurality of containers and a plunger for compacting yarn in a container. 
         FIG.  6    is a schematic cross-sectional view of the plunger and yarn container with yarn therein. 
         FIG.  7    is a schematic side view of a yarn feeding assembly for providing yarn through a plunger as in  FIG.  5    and into a yarn container. 
         FIG.  8    is a partial perspective view of a plurality of yarn aspirators of a yarn feeding assembly for providing yarn into respective yarn containers of a yarn transport module. 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of a warp beam of a yarn transport module receiving yarn and having a header extending there across. 
         FIG.  10    is a schematic of a tufting system comprising a tufting machine and a plurality of yarn transport modules. 
         FIG.  11    is a perspective view of a yarn transport module comprising a plurality of yarn containers delivering yarn to a tufting machine at a splicing station. 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of a yarn transport module comprising a plurality of warp beams. 
         FIG.  13    is a top view of a removable header for use with the yarn transport modules as disclosed herein. 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of a pair of headers that are adjoined for coupling yarn ends together. 
         FIG.  15    is a cross-sectional schematic view of a pair of headers that are adjoined for coupling yarn ends together. 
         FIG.  16    is a schematic diagram of a system for providing yarn to a twisting machine. 
         FIG.  17    is a schematic diagram of a system for providing yarn to a twisting machine comprising a plurality of positions. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present invention can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. 
     The following description of the invention is provided as an enabling teaching of the invention in its best, currently known embodiment. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of the invention described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present invention can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present invention without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and not in limitation thereof. 
     As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a tube” can include two or more such tubes unless the context indicates otherwise. 
     Optionally, in some aspects, when values are approximated by use of the antecedents “about,” “substantially,” or “generally,” it is contemplated that values within up to 15%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% (above or below) of the particularly stated value or characteristic can be included within the scope of those aspects. 
     Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. 
     As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , a system  100  can comprise a heatset  102  or other yarn production machine that is configured to produce a plurality of yarns  103  (e.g., 24-48 yarns). The heatset  102  can provide yarn to one or more yarn transport modules  104  via a delivery system  106 . Optionally, the delivery system  106  can simultaneously deliver each yarn of the plurality of yarns from a tunnel of the heatset  102  into the yarn transport module(s)  104 . A respective yarn break and tension sensor  107  can both monitor yarn tension and detect yarn break for each yarn. Such yarn break and tension sensors  107 , such as those provided by BTSR, can detect yarn break via optical or tension methods and are known and commonly used in the industry. 
     Yarn Transport Module Comprising Multiple Containers 
     Referring also to  FIGS.  2 - 3   , each yarn transport module  104  can comprise a plurality of containers  110  that are coupled together as a movable unit. The yarn transport module  104  can comprise a frame  130  to which the plurality of containers  110  are mounted or otherwise secured (such that the containers are coupled together through the frame). Optionally, the yarn transport module  104  can comprise the same number of containers as the number of yarn ends that the heatset tunnel simultaneously provides (e.g., 24 or 48). In further optional aspects, the yarn transport module  104  can comprise a multiple of the number of yarn ends that the heat set tunnel simultaneously provides (e.g., 72 or 96 containers). The frame  130  can be supported on a plurality of wheels  132  ( FIG.  11   ). The yarn transport modules  104  can comprise an adapter plate  112  that is configured to interface with the yarn delivery system  106 . 
     A plurality of guide tubes  116  can extend between the adapter plate  112  and respective containers  110  to guide respective yarns between the adapter plate  112  and the containers. As further described herein, it is contemplated that the adapter plate  112  can define a plurality of openings  113  (e.g., holes) that are aligned with corresponding guide tubes  116 . The openings can be spaced and otherwise configured to interface with the yarn delivery system  106  (e.g., a plurality of aspirators), as further disclosed herein. 
     The yarn transport modules  104  can further comprise a removable header  118  that can maintain the yarn ends in a spaced relationship to inhibit the yarns from crossing, getting tangled, etc. The removable header  118  can rest on, or attach to, the frame  130  of the yarn transport module  104 . For example, the removable header  118  can optionally be received within hooks, grooves, a receptacle, or other carrying structure (not shown) defined by the frame  130 . In some optional aspects, the removable header  118  can be configured to couple to a corresponding removable header  118 ′ of a tufting machine (or a twisting machine, as further disclosed herein). In this way, as further described herein, the removable headers  118 ,  118 ′ can enable rapid alignment and coupling between yarn ends to facilitate splicing of the yarn ends of the yarn transport modules  104  with the yarn ends of the tufting machine. In various aspects and as illustrated in  FIG.  10   , each transport module can comprise a respective removable header  118 , and the tufting machine (or twisting machine) can comprise one or a plurality of removable headers  118 ′ that are configured to interface with the removable headers  118  of respective transport modules. Accordingly, a system can comprise a plurality of removable headers  118 ,  118 ′. 
     In some optional aspects, the containers  110  can be tubular or substantially tubular. For example, optionally, the containers  110  can be hollow elongate bodies having rigid walls. Optionally, some or all of the containers  110  can have a consistent cross section along their lengths. In various aspects, the containers  110  can have circular cross sections, hexagonal cross sections, or any other suitable cross section. For example, referring to  FIG.  4   , hexagonal containers  110  can be arranged in a honeycomb configuration. Optionally, the hexagonal containers can have a side length (a length of each side of the hexagonal profile) of five inches and a longitudinal length of 36 inches. In some aspects, the containers  110  (or a portion thereof) can be see-through (optionally, transparent or translucent) to allow an operator to see through at least a portion of the containers to determine the remaining capacity in the containers. In various aspects, the containers  110  can comprise paper (e.g., cardboard) or polymer (e.g., Plexiglas) materials. In still further aspects, the containers  110  can comprise burlap or cloth materials. Optionally, each yarn transport module  104  can cooperatively be configured to hold a quantity of yarn sufficient to manufacture 500-2000 yards of finished carpet. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , the delivery system  106  can comprise a plurality of aspirators  120 . In some aspects, the delivery system  106  can have a respective aspirator  120  for each yarn from the heat set  102  or other yarn production machine (e.g.,  24  or  48  aspirators). The aspirators  120  can be positioned at the adapter plate  112  so that the aspirators are in engagement with the ends of the guide tubes opposite the containers  110 . The holes  113  in the adapter plate  112  can be spaced and otherwise arranged to simultaneously receive respective aspirators of the plurality of aspirators  120 . In some aspects, each aspirator  120  can have a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the openings  113  in the adapter plate  112  to provide a clearance between the aspirator and the respective opening, thereby preventing wear and tear from sliding engagement. Each opening  113  can provide communication to a respective guide tube  116 . The aspirators  120  can be configured to deliver yarn through the guide tubes  116  into the containers  110 . In some aspects, the delivery system  106  can comprise a respective aspirator  120  for each container  110  of the yarn transport module  104 . Accordingly, in some aspects, the delivery system  106  can comprise, for example, 24 or 48 aspirators. In this way, the delivery system  106  can simultaneously fill all of the containers  110  of the yarn transport module  104 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1  and  7   , the delivery system  106  can further comprise opposing drive rollers  122  that bias against opposing sides of the yarn. At least one of the opposing drive rollers can be coupled to a motor that is configured to cause rotation of the roller to thereby drive movement of the yarn. Optionally, a sheave  123  can direct the path of yarn to the opposing rollers  122 . Optionally, the delivery system  106  can comprise a plurality of sets of opposing drive rollers  122 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , the delivery system  106  can further comprise a metering device  124 . The metering device can optionally comprise a pair of rollers  126  that rotate as yarn is drawn therethrough. The number of rotations of a roller multiplied by the circumference of the roller can correspond to the length of yarn drawn through the metering device  124 . As shown in  FIG.  1   , it is contemplated that the metering device  124  can be positioned between the drive rollers  122  and the aspirators  120  (along the path of yarn movement away from the heat set). Optionally, it is contemplated that a plurality of metering devices  124  can be provided (e.g., one or multiple metering devices per yarn). 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 - 6   , it is contemplated that a plurality of plungers  140  can be configured to compress the yarn  103  within the containers  110  (e.g., tubes). For example, a respective plunger  140  can be configured to reciprocally move inwardly into each container  110  to compress the yarn  103  within the container. The plunger  140  can optionally define a cross section that is the same shape or substantially the same shape as the cross section of the container  110  in the same plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the container (e.g., a hexagonal plunger for a hexagonal container or a round plunger for a cylindrical tube container). The dimensions of the plunger  140  can be selected to allow sufficient clearance for receipt of the plunger into the container  110 . The plunger  140  can define a bore  142  therethrough, and a yarn  103  can extend through the bore of each plunger. In some aspects, the plungers  140  can be configured to intermittently move inwardly into and outwardly from the container  110 . In other aspects, the plungers  140  can continuously move inwardly into and outwardly from the container  110 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  7   , it is contemplated that each of the plungers  140  can couple at proximal end to a respective shaft  144  that can be actuated by, for example, a pneumatic piston (not shown). The plunger  140  can optionally comprise a tapered distal end  144  that can facilitate insertion and alignment of the plunger with the respective container  110 . 
     In some aspects, the plunger  140  can move relatively rapidly (e.g., approximately 5 inches per second for insertion and yarn compression and approximately 15 inches per second for retraction), and the yarn can continuously be delivered as the plunger is delivered into the container. In further aspects, the plunger  140  can move relatively more slowly (e.g., optionally, approximately three inches per second), and the yarn delivery can temporarily be halted as the yarn is compressed. 
     In some aspects, the plunger  140  can be controlled by a controller. The controller can be in communication with a load cell or a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor; not shown) that can be configured to determine the axial of the plunger that provide sufficient, but not excessive, compression. In further aspects, the axial displacement of the plunger can be determined and controlled based on a quantity of yarn delivered to the container (using the metering device  124 ) and the capacity of the container. 
     In some optional aspects, each yarn can be fed through a respective plunger  140  via a pair of opposing rollers  122  that bias against opposing sides of the yarn. In some aspects, the opposing rollers  122  can be coupled to each piston  140 . At least one of the opposing rollers  122  can be coupled to a motor to cause rotation of the roller. In these aspects, it is contemplated that the opposing rollers  122  associated with the piston can serve as the yarn delivery system  106 , and the aspirators  120  can optionally be omitted. Optionally, these opposing rollers  122  can further serve as the metering device  124 . In further aspects, a separate metering device  124  can be used to measure yarn delivered to the container. In further optional aspects, a venturi or compressed air can be used to drive the yarn through the plunger  140 . 
     In further optional aspects, the containers  110  can have flexible sidewalls that can enable the containers to deform (e.g., expand) as they are filled with yarn. 
     In some optional aspects, the yarn transport modules  104  can be configured to be vertically stackable. For example, bottom features of a first yarn transport module  104  can cooperate with top features of a second yarn transport module  104  to retain and support the first yarn transport module on top of the second yarn transport module. Similar structural features can be provided on additional transport modules to permit stacking of three or more yarn transport modules. In some optional aspects, the adapter plate  112  can be coupled to the frame  130  in a lower profile than shown to facilitate stacking of yarn transport modules. Optionally, the adapter plate  112  can be movably coupled to the frame  130  so that the adapter plate  112  can be configured to be movable from a raised position (as shown in  FIG.  2   ) to a lowered position (not shown). For example, in further embodiments, the adapter plate can couple to the frame via arms  131  that are pivotably coupled to the frame  130 . 
     Removable Header 
     The yarns  103  can be held in a spaced arrangement via a removable header  118 . The removable header  118  can be selectively positioned between the yarn containers  110  and a tufting machine  250  or other textile manufacturing device. Referring to  FIGS.  13 - 16   , in some aspects, the removable header  118  can comprise an elongate strip  150  defining a plurality of notches  152 . The elongate strip  150  can have a longitudinal axis  151  and a transverse axis  153  that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The notches  152  can guide the yarns into respective holes  156  (e.g., optionally, circular holes). The notches  152  can be tapered inwardly (relative to the transverse axis  153 ) from a first (notch opening) side  154  to the respective holes  156 . In some aspects, the holes  156  can be positioned at a midpoint relative to the transverse axis  153 . 
     It is contemplated that the header  118  can be shaped so that two of such removable headers  118 , with one rotated (e.g., rotated  180  degrees) about the longitudinal axis with respect to the other header as shown in  FIG.  15   , can have two degrees of rotational symmetry. A second side  155  of the elongate strip (opposite the first side  154 ) can have a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the first side  154  so that each header defines a stop surface  158  that extends at least partially in a thickness dimension that is perpendicular to each of the longitudinal axis  151  and the transverse axis  153 . The stop surface  158  can be positioned midway between the first and second sides  154 , 155  relative to the transverse axis  153 . In this way, the respective stop surfaces  158  can align the holes (and respective yarns therein) of the two headers for coupling yarns (e.g., burn in, as further described herein). 
     A retainer  160  can extend across the removable header  118  to retain the yarns in their respective positions relative to each other. For example, in some optional aspects the retainer  160  can comprise one of a hook fastener or a loop fastener (e.g., VELCRO fastener) that is configured to engage the other of the hook fastener or the loop fastener of the header  118 . In further options, the retainer can be a member (e.g., a metal or polymer strip) that can extend across the header and clamp against the header with the yarns therebetween so that the yarns are under compression between the header  118  and the retainer  160 . In still further aspects, the retainer  160  can comprise adhesive tape that extends across the removable header  118 . In further aspects, the retainer  160  can retain the yarns directly to the adapter plate  112 . 
     Although an exemplary construction of a removable header  118  and an associated retainer  160  are disclosed with reference to  FIGS.  13 - 15   , various other constructions can be used. It is contemplated that the removable header  118  can be a structure (or a portion thereof) that maintains the yarns in a particular order to inhibit crossing, twisting, or tangling of the yarns. In further exemplary aspects, the removable header can maintain the yarns in a spaced relationship along an axis to facilitate joining of the yarns with yarns of the yarn processing machine (e.g., tufting machine or winding machine). For example, in one aspect, the removable header  118  and the retainer  160  can be a strip of hook material and a strip of loop material, respectively. The strips of hook material and loop material can be coupled with the yarns retained therebetween to maintain the order (and, optionally, spacing) of the yarns. In yet further aspects, the removable header  116  and retainer  160  can comprise strips respective of tape. One or both of the strips of tape can comprise adhesive thereon. Thus, the strips of tape can be adjoined (via the adhesive) with the yarns therebetween to maintain the order (and, optionally, spacing) of the yarns. In yet further aspects, the header  118  and the retainer  160  can be respective rigid strips of material that are compressed (e.g., clamped) together with the yarns positioned therebetween to maintain the order (and, optionally, spacing) of the yarns. 
     Yarn Transport Module Comprising Warp Beam 
     Referring to  FIGS.  9  and  12   , in some aspects, the yarn transport modules  104  can comprise a frame  202  that is movably supported on wheels  204 . One or a plurality of warp beams  206  (e.g., four warp beams, as shown in  FIG.  12   ) can be removably positioned on the frame. Each warp beam  206  can comprise a body  208  (optionally, a cylindrical body) about which yarn can be wound. Opposing end plates  210  can retain the yarn therebetween. A rod  212  (or other support element) can extend through the body  208  and can extend outwardly of each respective end plate  210 . The warp beam  206  can be supported by the ends of the rod  212  so that the warp beam  206  can rotate about the rod. In exemplary aspects, the warp beam  206  can comprise a bearing that receives the rod  212  and facilitates rotation thereabout. Optionally, each warp beam  206  can be motor controlled to provide consistent tension as the diameter of yarn wound around the warp beam increases during production and winding. 
     In some aspects, for each warp beam  206  that the frame  202  supports, the frame can define a receptacle  218  (e.g., a slot or a notch) on each side of the frame that can receive a respective end of the rod  212 . For example, the frame  202  can have a first side  220  and a second side  222  connected at a base. Each side can comprise two vertically spaced rows of beams  224 . Each beam  224  can define a pair of receptacles that are spaced relative to the beams&#39; longitudinal axes so that opposing beams  224  on the first and second sides  220 ,  222  can cooperatively support two rollers. Thus, in some exemplary aspects, the frame  202  can support four warp beams  206 . However, other beam and frame configurations can be used to support more or fewer rollers and beams. In some optional aspects, the receptacles  218  can have surfaces (e.g., hemicylindrical surfaces) having substantially the same diameter as the rod  212 . 
     A forklift, crane, or other lifting device can lift the warp beams  206  from their respective receptacles and position the warp beam  106  on a warp beam machine  200  of the heat set  102 . The warp beam machine  200  can be configured to support the warp beam  206  in position for receiving yarn and rotate the warp beam around the rod  212  to wind the yarns. The warp beam machine  200  can further define a yarn spacing assembly  230  that directs yarns in a spaced arrangement to the warp beam  206 . Optionally, as a non-limiting example, each warp beam can hold 22,000 feet of yarn (2 ply, 1000 denier per ply) which can, in some optional aspects, form 2100 feet of finished carpet with a ½″ pile height. Once the warp beam  206  has a desired quantity of yarn wound around the beam, the lifting device can position the warp beam on the frame (with the ends of the rod  212  disposed within respective receptacles  218 ). 
     When positioned on the frame  202 , the warp beams  206  can be configured to rotate so that as the ends of the yarns are pulled (e.g., as a tufting device pulls on the yarn), the warp beam can rotate to feed the yarn from the warp beam (e.g., to the tufting device). 
     It is contemplated that the yarn transport module comprising one or more warp beams  206  can implement any of the removable headers as disclosed herein (e.g., as shown in  FIGS.  13 - 15   ). In further aspects, as shown in  FIG.  9   , a strip of hook fastener  232  can be positioned in engagement with the yarns so that the fastening elements of the hook fastener extend outwardly from the yarn. (Optionally, the hook fastener can be pressed against the yarns before the yarns are wound around the warp beam, and the warp beam can then be wound (e.g., one revolution) to position the hook fastener on the beam with the yarns extending thereacross.) A strip of loop fastener can then be coupled to the hook fastener to maintain the yarns in their respective positions. In this way, the hook and loop fastener can serve as the removable header  118  and retainer  160 , respectively. In further aspects, the hook and loop strips can have reversed positions from those described above. In still further aspects, opposing adhesive backed polymer strips (e.g., tape) can serve as the removable header  118  and retainer  160 . In yet further aspects, an arm can be clamped down against the yarns wound around the beam to retain the yarn ends. 
     Processing Yarn from the Yarn Transport Modules 
     Referring to  FIGS.  10  and  13 - 15   , once a yarn transport module  104  is sufficiently filled (or once the beams  206  have sufficient yarn wound therearound), the retainer  160  can be placed across the removable header  118  so that the yarns are fixed in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the removable header. The yarns can then be severed so that each yarn has a first end  240  ( FIG.  6   ) within a respective container and an opposing loose end  242  ( FIG.  16   ), and the retainer  160  can be secured to the removable header between the first ends and the loose ends of the yarns. 
     The yarn transport module  104  can then be moved for subsequent yarn processing. For example, in some aspects, the yarn transport module  104  can provide yarn to a tufting machine  250 . It is contemplated that a plurality of yarn transport modules  104  can be provided at the tufting machine  250  to simultaneously feed yarn into the tufting machine. 
     The yarn transport module  104  can be moved into position proximate to the tufting machine  250 . For example, it is contemplated that, optionally, twelve warp beams  206  (e.g., three frames  202  having four warp beams  206  thereon) can be positioned at the tufting machine  250 . In further aspects, 24 yarn transport modules  104 , each yarn transport module comprising 48 containers  110 , can be positioned at the tufting machine  250 . In this way, a large number of yarn ends (e.g., approximately 1000 yarn ends) can simultaneously be provided to a tufting machine.  FIG.  11    illustrates a splicing station at which yarn ends from the yarn transport modules can be spliced with yarn ends from the tufting machine  250 , and from which the yarns from the yarn transport modules can be fed to the tufting machine  250 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  10  and  13 - 15   , respective yarns of each of the yarn transport modules  104  can be aligned with respective beginning ends  244  of the yarns of the tufting machine  250 . In some aspects, the beginning ends  244  of the yarns of the tufting machine can be retained in a header  118 ′ of the tufting machine. The header  118  of the yarn transport module  104  can be configured to engage the header  118 ′ of the tufting machine so that when their respective longitudinal ends are aligned and their respective stop surfaces  158  are biased against each other, the holes through which the yarns extend are likewise aligned. In some optional aspects, the headers  118 ,  118 ′ can define respective slots  162  that can receive a respective compression plate  226  from the respective second side  155 . The respective compression plate  226  can be inserted into each slot  162  until the yarns come into contact with each other. The compression plates can have a thickness that allows the plates to be receivable into the slots  162 . Optionally, in some aspects, the compression plates  226  can be coupled together and movable relative to each other along an axis between a first position, in which the compression plates are sufficiently separated to receive the adjacently positioned pair of headers  118 ,  118 ′, and a second position, in which the compression plates are biasing the yarns together. For example, in some aspects, a first compression plate can be fixedly coupled to a pair of rails that are parallel to the axis of motion of the pair of compression plates, and the other compression plate can slide relative to the first compression plate along the pair of rails. Optionally, an actuator (e.g., a spring-biased actuator, piston, or other suitable actuator) can bias the compression plates  226  toward each other. In this way, an operator can squeeze the headers  118 ,  118 ′ together, thereby pressing the yarns against each other, and the actuator can apply additional compression to the yarns. One or both of the compression plates  226  can comprise a heating element that is configured to fuse the yarns together (e.g., burn in). When such a heating element(s) is/are provided, it is contemplated that the compression plate can be in communication with a user input device (e.g., a button, a switch, a knob, or the like) that is configured to permit selective activation or inactivation of the heating element. Additionally, or alternatively, it is contemplated that a controller (e.g., a controller as disclosed herein) can be configured to control operation of the heating element. 
     Once the yarns are fused, the tufting machine  250  can be run according to normal operation. The headers  118 ,  118 ′ can be removed from engagement with the yarns. For example, in some aspects, the removable header  118  can be positioned on the carrying structure defined by the frame of the yarn transport module. Referring to  FIG.  11   , the yarns can travel from the yarn transport module  104 , to a frame  260  of the tufting machine, through tubes  262 , and ultimately to tufting needles. It is contemplated that the metering devices  124  of the yarn delivery system  106  can be used to determine the amount of yarn drawn from the yarn transport modules before the yarn is exhausted. Yarn length data (e.g., the length of yarn in each container) can be stored in a database. The tufting machine can have a yarn consumption rate. Thus, the yarn length data and yarn consumption rate can determine the amount of time that the tufting machine can draw from the yarn transport modules. 
     Yarn Transport Module for Feeding a Twisting Machine 
     It is contemplated the yarn transport modules  104  are not limited to transporting yarn to a tufting machine and can instead provide yarn to other yarn processing machines. As used herein, the term “yarn processing machine” can refer to any machine or system that is configured to physically manipulate that position, shape, orientation, or physical properties of yarn. For example, referring to  FIGS.  16 - 17   , in some aspects, yarn from an extruder can be provided to a twisting machine  300  via a yarn transport module  104  as described herein. For example, the yarn transport module  104  can receive yarn from the extruders in the same manner as yarn provided from a heat set tunnel. The yarn transport module  104  can then be transported to a twisting machine  300 . Pairs of yarn  103  ( FIG.  1   ) (e.g., from pairs of containers  110  of the plurality of yarn containers) from the yarn transport module  104  can be fed to each position  306  of the twisting machine  300 . In some aspects, each twisting machine  300  can comprise a plurality of positions (e.g., optionally, one hundred positions or more). The each position can comprise a twister  302  and a winder  304  that can wind twisted pairs of yarn therearound. In some aspects, a frame  308  can support a plurality of tubes  310  that guide respective pairs of yarns to each twisting machine. 
     In some aspects, a yarn transport module  104  can comprise a plurality of containers (e.g.,  24  or  48  containers), and yarns from pairs of containers can feed a twisting machine  300 . Optionally, a yarn transport module  104  can feed a plurality of positions  306  of a twisting machine  300  simultaneously. 
     Exemplary Aspects 
     In view of the described products, systems, and methods and variations thereof, herein below are described certain more particularly described aspects of the invention. These particularly recited aspects should not however be interpreted to have any limiting effect on any different claims containing different or more general teachings described herein, or that the “particular” aspects are somehow limited in some way other than the inherent meanings of the language literally used therein. 
     Aspect 1: A system comprising: a plurality of containers that are coupled together as a movable unit; and a plurality of container-feeding assemblies that are configured to simultaneously deliver respective yarns into respective containers of the plurality of containers. 
     Aspect 2: The system of aspect 1, further comprising: a header that is configured to receive yarn ends of the yarns in the plurality of containers, the header having a longitudinal axis; and a retainer that is configured to extend across the header along the longitudinal axis to secure the respective yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis. 
     Aspect 3: The system of aspect 1 or aspect 2, wherein the plurality of container-feeding assemblies comprises a plurality of aspirators. 
     Aspect 4: The system of aspect 3, wherein the movable unit further comprises an adapter plate defining a plurality of openings and a respective guide tube extending between each opening of the adapter plate and a respective container, wherein each aspirator of the plurality of aspirators is positioned at a respective opening of the adapter plate. 
     Aspect 5: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein each container-feeding assembly of the plurality of container-feeding assemblies comprises: opposing rollers that bias against opposing sides of the respective yarn; and at least one motor that is coupled to at least one of the opposing rollers and is configured to cause rotation of the at least one of the opposing rollers. 
     Aspect 6: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the plurality of containers are see-through. 
     Aspect 7: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein each container is tubular or substantially tubular. 
     Aspect 8: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, wherein each container comprises a flexible sidewall. 
     Aspect 9: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising at least one yarn metering device that is configured to measure a quantity of yarn delivered into a container of the plurality of containers. 
     Aspect 10: The system of aspect 9, wherein the at least one yarn metering device comprises a plurality of yarn metering devices, wherein each yarn metering device of the plurality of yarn metering devices is configured to measure the quantity of yarn delivered into a respective container of the plurality of containers. 
     Aspect 11: The system of aspect 9 or aspect 10, wherein the at least one metering device comprises a roller. 
     Aspect 12: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a pair of opposing drive rollers that are configured to maintain a select tension on yarn leaving a heat set apparatus. 
     Aspect 13: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a plurality of plungers, wherein each plunger of the plurality of plungers is configured to reciprocally move inwardly into a respective container to compress yarn within the container. 
     Aspect 14: The system of aspect 13, wherein each plunger defines a longitudinal bore therethrough through which a respective yarn can extend. 
     Aspect 15: The system of aspect 13 or aspect 14, wherein each plunger is configured to intermittently move inwardly into and outwardly from the respective container. 
     Aspect 16: The system of aspect 13 or aspect 14, wherein each plunger is configured to continuously move inwardly into and outwardly from the respective container. 
     Aspect 17: The system of any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a heat set apparatus that is configured to deliver the yarns to respective container feed assemblies. 
     Aspect 18: A method comprising: delivering a first plurality of yarns into respective containers of the system as in any one of aspects 2-17, wherein the header is a first header; securing the retainer to the first header to fix the respective yarns of the first plurality of yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the first header; severing the first plurality of yarns so that each yarn of the first plurality of yarns has a first end within a respective container and an opposing loose end, wherein the retainer is secured to the first header between the first ends and the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns; positioning the movable unit proximate to a second header of a yarn processing machine, the yarn processing machine having a second plurality of yarns thereon, each yarn of the second plurality of yarns on the yarn processing machine having a respective beginning end; aligning the first header with the second header so that the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns are aligned with respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns on the yarn processing machine; and coupling respective loose ends of the first plurality of yarns in the containers to respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns of the yarn processing machine. 
     Aspect 19: The method of aspect 18, wherein the yarn processing machine is a tufting machine. 
     Aspect 20: The method of aspect 18, wherein the yarn processing machine is a twisting machine. 
     Aspect 21: A system comprising: a warp beam having a central axis about which the warp beam is configured to rotate; a warp beam machine that is configured to wind a plurality of yarns received from one or more heatset apparatuses around the warp beam; a frame that is configured to support at least one warp beam thereon; and a plurality of wheels that are coupled to the frame and configured to movably support the frame. 
     Aspect 22: The system of aspect 21, wherein the frame is configured to receive a plurality of warp beams thereon. 
     Aspect 23: The system of aspect 21 or aspect 22, further comprising a header that is configured to receive yarn ends of the yarns in the plurality of containers, the header having a longitudinal axis; and a retainer that is configured to extend across the header along the longitudinal axis to secure the respective yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis. 
     Aspect 24: A method comprising: winding a first plurality of yarns onto the warp beam of the system of any one of aspects 20-23, wherein the header is a first header; securing the retainer to the first header to fix the respective yarns of the first plurality of yarns in respective positions relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the header; severing the first plurality of yarns so that each yarn of the first plurality of yarns has a loose end proximate the first header, wherein the first header and retainer are fixed together between the warp beam and the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns; positioning the warp beam on the frame; positioning the warp beam proximate to a second header of a yarn processing machine, the yarn processing machine having a second plurality of yarns thereon, each yarn of the second plurality of yarns on the yarn processing machine having a respective beginning end; aligning the first header with the second header so that the loose ends of the first plurality of yarns are aligned with respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns on the yarn processing machine; and coupling respective loose ends of the first plurality of yarns in the containers to respective beginning ends of the second plurality of yarns of the yarn processing machine. 
     Aspect 25: The method of aspect 24, wherein the yarn processing machine is a tufting machine. 
     Aspect 26: The method of aspect 24, wherein the yarn processing machine is a twisting machine. 
     Although several embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in the foregoing specification and the following appendices, it is understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to which the invention pertains, having the benefit of the teaching presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. It is thus understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and that many modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as in the claims which follow, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the described invention, nor the claims which follow.