Patent Description:
In particular, but not exclusively, the invention is advantageously applied to machines or apparatuses for steaming printed fabrics.

As is known, the operation of steaming serves to stably fix the dyes to the fibre of a fabric by taking advantage of the action of the condensed moisture, combined with the one of the heat of the environment, to result in the dye and all the recipe products present on the surface of the material being spread from the surface layer into the fibre and set therein.

A machine of this type for the treatment of folded fabrics (for example, for preparing, steaming, dyeing, finishing and the like) generally comprises a treatment chamber in which there is supported an endless (continuous) conveyor for transferring the fabric to be treated from an inlet side of said chamber, where a support and fabric feed roller is active, to an outlet side of the treatment chamber.

Such conveyor comprises a pair of endless chains, which are supported and moved close to the longitudinal walls of the chamber and which advancing and return branches extend close to the top and the bottom, respectively, of the chamber itself.

The fabric is supported folded inside the treatment chamber by a plurality of rollers (called sticks in the field and hereinafter in this description), the ends of which are connected to opposing links of the aforesaid chains.

Generally, a conveyor of this type is caused to advance in a continuous manner to support - close to the inlet side - the formation of next folds of fabric on next sticks, and for the time required for the formation of the folded fabric in the treatment chamber.

Document <CIT> describes a machine for steaming fabrics.

Document <CIT> describes a festooning machine.

Document <CIT> describes a festoon drier.

International Patent Application <CIT> to the same Applicant describes a system for moving sticks and forming the related folds wherein each stick is connected to the respective links of the chains by means of a pair of arms, each having a first end constrained to a link of one of the chains, and a second end constrained to a corresponding end of the stick.

Such system provides using shaped plates on which the arms carrying the sticks slide. During the advancement of the fabric, the arms are overturned, lifting the sticks and carrying them from a condition in which they are hung on the conveyor chains in the ascending stretch, to a resting condition on tracks arranged above the active advancement branches of the chains themselves.

The Applicant has noted that such a machine, and other similar ones which provide advancement by means of chains of the sticks that support the folded fabric, may be subjected to drawbacks when used for the treatment of printed fabrics with ink-jet printing or more generally, with fabrics that were the object of a previous digital printing process.

More specifically, the Applicant has verified that the digitally printed fabrics not yet subjected to treatments such as for example, steaming, may transfer the applied colour onto other fabrics, or other portions of the same fabric, also following contacts with very low intensity.

The Applicant has therefore noted that folds that are too tight may promote accidental contact between adjacent portions of the same fold due to which the dye may be transferred from a surface of the fold to the one facing it (that is, the other inner surface part of the same fold), thus creating problems of undesired patterns on certain portions of fabric.

More generally, the Applicant has perceived the need to prepare a machine in which the width of the folds could be determined with a certain level of freedom, without excessive constraints imposed by the mechanical structure of the machine itself.

It is the object of the present invention to make available a machine that is capable of preventing the formation of undesired patterns on the fabric, also following digital type prints.

It is another object to provide a machine that allows modifying the width of the folds in a simple manner, without being subjected to excessive mechanical constraints.

These and other objects again are substantially achieved by a machine for the treatment of folded printed fabrics, as described in the appended claims.

Further features and advantages shall be more apparent from the detailed description of preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of the invention.

Such description is made herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings, also provided for indicative purposes only, and therefore not limiting, in which:.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, a machine for the treatment of folded fabrics according to the present invention is indicated as a whole with <NUM>.

The machine <NUM> comprises a box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM> which is a substantially parallelepiped chamber.

The box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM> (<FIG>, <FIG>) comprises a pair of, preferably substantially vertical, side or longitudinal walls <NUM>, <NUM>, preferably a top <NUM> and a bottom <NUM>. Each of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> is provided with a guide G.

Preferably, the guide G (<FIG>, <FIG>) is, in a cross section with respect to the planar development of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, substantially "C"-shaped, in which the vertical part G1 is a part of the respective side wall <NUM>, <NUM>, and the transverse parts G2, G3 extend from the respective side wall <NUM>, <NUM>, preferably in orthogonal direction thereto.

The guide G serves the purpose of guiding the sticks <NUM> (which are described below) during the operation of the machine <NUM>.

The guide G preferably substantially is continuous along the closed path P (<FIG>) that the sticks <NUM> follow inside the machine <NUM>.

Preferably, the guide G has at least one removable portion so as to allow the insertion/extraction of the sticks, when required.

The box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM> is provided at the front with an inlet opening <NUM> of the printed fabric T to be treated, and at the back with an outlet opening <NUM> of the treated printed fabric T.

Preferably, both openings <NUM>, <NUM> are located in the top part of the box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM>.

A roller <NUM> for supporting and feeding fabric is supported in the chamber <NUM> at the opening <NUM>, while a roller <NUM> for supporting the fabric is positioned close to the outlet opening <NUM>.

Both rollers <NUM>, <NUM> preferably have horizontal axis perpendicular to the walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

A treatment process of the printed fabric T is executed inside the box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM>.

Preferably, such process is a steaming process. To this end, the machine <NUM> is equipped with apparatuses (in themselves known and not illustrated) for generating and distributing steam in the aforesaid chamber.

It is worth noting that the invention may also be applied to other types of machines, that is machines configured to perform other processes, in which in any case a fabric is to be arranged folded and caused to advance in a closed treatment chamber.

The machine <NUM> further comprises a plurality of sticks <NUM>, operating in the box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM> for supporting a printed fabric T and forming folds of such printed fabric T.

The sticks <NUM> are arranged according to a substantially horizontal direction, that is substantially parallel to the bottom <NUM> of the box shaped treatment chamber <NUM>.

The sticks <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM>.

An example of structure of a stick <NUM> is now described. Preferably, all the sticks in the machine <NUM> have a same structure.

Preferably, the stick <NUM> (<FIG>) comprises a tubular body <NUM> for supporting the folded fabric T. The tubular body <NUM> is substantially cylindrical-shaped. The tubular body <NUM> has a first axial end 21a and a second axial end 21b opposite to the first axial end 21a.

Preferably, the stick <NUM> comprises a first toothed wheel <NUM>, mounted on the first axial end 21a of the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the stick <NUM> comprises a second toothed wheel <NUM>, mounted on the first axial end 21a of the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the first toothed wheel <NUM> is mounted in axially proximal position and the second toothed wheel <NUM> is mounted in axially distal position with respect to the first end 21a of the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the first toothed wheel <NUM> is integral with the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the second toothed wheel <NUM> is integral with the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the first toothed wheel <NUM> is mounted coaxially to the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the second toothed wheel <NUM> is mounted coaxially to the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the first and the second toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM> substantially have the same outer diameter. In particular, the first and the second toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM> substantially are equal to each other.

Preferably, the stick <NUM> comprises a driving wheel <NUM> mounted on the first axial end 21a of the tubular body <NUM>. In particular, the driving wheel <NUM> is in axial position opposite to the first toothed wheel <NUM> with respect to the second toothed wheel <NUM>. In other words, starting from the first axial end 21a of the tubular body <NUM>, there are, in order: the first toothed wheel <NUM>, the second toothed wheel <NUM> and the driving wheel <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving wheel <NUM> has a greater diameter with respect to the first and/or the second toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM>. In particular, the driving wheel <NUM> has a greater diameter with respect both to the first toothed wheel <NUM> and to the second toothed wheel <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving wheel <NUM> is mounted coaxially to the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving wheel <NUM> is coupled to the guide G present on one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> described above.

Preferably, the driving wheel <NUM> is not integral with the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving wheel <NUM> is constrained to the tubular body <NUM> by means of bearings or other similar members (not illustrated). Thereby, the driving wheel <NUM> may rotate with respect to the tubular body <NUM>, to the first toothed wheel <NUM> and to the second toothed wheel <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving wheel <NUM> is not a toothed wheel. In particular, the driving wheel <NUM> may have a substantially smooth circumferential profile.

Preferably, a first toothed wheel <NUM>' and a second toothed wheel <NUM>', which substantially are identical to the aforesaid first toothed wheel <NUM> and second toothed wheel <NUM>, are also mounted on the second axial end 21b of the tubular body <NUM>.

Preferably, the stick <NUM> comprises a driving wheel <NUM>' mounted on the second axial end 21b and substantially identical to the driving wheel <NUM> mounted on the first axial end 21a.

Advantageously, the driving wheels <NUM>, <NUM>' are coupled to the guides G so that the sticks <NUM> are guided by the guides G themselves.

In practical terms, the guides G prevent the sticks <NUM> from taking on positions that are different from the ones provided (e.g. falling from the chains on which they are resting, and which will be described below, being arranged in non-perpendicular direction with respect to the various chains, etc.), therefore increasing the overall reliability of the machine.

The stick <NUM> having the above-described structure advantageously may also be used in machines for the treatment of fabrics having different structure and/or function with respect to the machine <NUM> herein described.

It is worth noting that the reference numeral <NUM> in the present description generically indicates the sticks present in the machine <NUM>. Reference numerals 20a, 20b. 20f indicate sticks that are in specific positions along the path P. The features of the sticks 20a-20f are the ones described above with respect to the stick <NUM>.

The machine <NUM> comprises a handling structure <NUM> (<FIG>) that is active on the sticks <NUM> to advance them along a substantially closed path P.

In the diagrammatic view in <FIG>, the advancement of the sticks <NUM> occurs in clockwise direction.

The path P comprises an operating stretch T1 in which the sticks <NUM> support the printed fabric T. The operating stretch T1 has a beginning T1A and an end T1B.

The beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1 is at the aforesaid inlet opening <NUM>; the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 is at the outlet opening <NUM>.

The handling structure <NUM> comprises a first motorized chain <NUM> in the operating stretch T1, which motorized chain supports the sticks 20a advancing from the beginning T1A to the end T1B of the operating stretch T1.

In other words, the sticks 20a advancing from the beginning T1A to the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 are resting on the first motorized chain <NUM> and execute such movement due to the sliding of the latter.

The first motorized chain <NUM> is moved by a first motor M1 that is active on a respective toothed wheel coupled to the first motorized chain <NUM> itself.

Preferably, the handling structure <NUM> comprises a second motorized chain <NUM> in the operating stretch T1, the motorized chain being arranged superiorly to the first motorized chain <NUM>.

The second motorized chain <NUM> cooperates with the first motorized chain <NUM> to advance the sticks 20a along the operating stretch T1.

The second motorized chain <NUM> is moved by a second motor M2 that is active on a respective toothed wheel coupled to the second motorized chain <NUM> itself.

The first and the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM> extend according to a substantially horizontal direction between the inlet opening <NUM> and the outlet opening <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the second motorized chain <NUM> is moved at the same speed as the first motorized chain <NUM>. Thereby, there is no substantial mutual movement between the first and the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM> and the sticks 20a translate along the operating stretch T1 without rotations about its longitudinal axis.

In a different embodiment (or different operating configuration of the machine <NUM>), the second motorized chain <NUM> is moved at different speeds with respect to the first motorized chain <NUM>. Thereby, the sticks 20a execute a rotation about its longitudinal axis in the operating stretch T1.

Preferably, the first and the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM> are engaged on the first toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks 20a.

The path P comprises a recirculation stretch T2, wherein the sticks <NUM> are transported from the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 to the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

Thereby, the sticks <NUM> may support the folded printed fabric T along the operating stretch T1 during the treatment process of the printed fabric T itself, to then be separated from the fabric at the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 and be brought back to the beginning T1A to support a new fabric portion.

Preferably, in at least one rectilinear portion of the recirculation stretch T2, the sticks <NUM> advance at different speeds with respect to the sticks 20a in the operating stretch T1.

The sticks <NUM> are arranged according to an ordered sequence. According to such sequence, each stick is preceded, in the advancement direction of the sticks, by a preceding stick, and is followed by a next stick. Preferably, such sequence is not modified during the operation of the machine <NUM>. In other words, given a certain stick, it will always be preceded by the preceding stick and it will always precede the next stick, keeping the order with which such sticks were mounted in the machine. What may vary, as will be clearer below, is the distance between each stick and the adjacent ones, that is between each stick and the preceding one and/or the next one.

Preferably, the recirculation stretch T2 comprises a retrieval zone Z1, in which the sticks <NUM> from the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 are retrieved and advanced.

The handling structure <NUM> preferably comprises, at the retrieval zone Z1, a first fixed chain or rack <NUM> and a third motorized chain <NUM>.

Therefore, since the sticks 20b in the retrieval zone Z1 are subjected to the action of the third motorized chain <NUM> and of the first fixed chain or rack <NUM>, they advance rotating about their own longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the first fixed chain or rack <NUM> and the third motorized chain <NUM> extend along a vertical stretch, extending from the end T1B of the operating stretch T1, and along a next horizontal stretch, along part of the length of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the box-shaped treatment chamber <NUM>.

Preferably, the third motorized chain <NUM> mechanically is independent of the first motorized chain <NUM> and of the second motorized chain <NUM>.

Preferably, the third motorized chain <NUM> is moved independently with respect to the first and the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM>.

Preferably, the third motorized chain <NUM> is moved at a different speed, in particular a greater speed, with respect to the first motorized chain <NUM> and to the second motorized chain <NUM>.

The third motorized chain <NUM> is moved by a third motor M3 that is active on a respective toothed wheel coupled to the third motorized chain <NUM> itself.

Preferably, the first fixed chain or rack <NUM> and the third motorized chain <NUM> engage the second toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks <NUM>.

Preferably, the recirculation stretch T2 comprises a directing zone Z2 in which the sticks <NUM> coming from the retrieval zone Z1 are directed towards the beginning of the operating stretch T1A and in particular, towards the uncoupling station <NUM>, which is described below.

The handling structure <NUM> preferably comprises, at the directing zone Z2, a fourth motorized chain <NUM> that carries the sticks from the retrieval zone Z1 towards the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

Preferably, the fourth motorized chain <NUM> extends according to a substantially horizontal direction, from the end of the third motorized chain <NUM> up to the uncoupling station <NUM>.

The sticks 20c preferably are resting on the fourth motorized chain <NUM> along the directing zone Z2. Such sticks <NUM> therefore are translated without rotation by the fourth motorized chain <NUM>.

Preferably, the fourth motorized chain <NUM> engages the first toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks <NUM>.

Preferably, the fourth motorized chain <NUM> is moved at the same speed as the third motorized chain <NUM>.

In particular, the fourth motorized chain <NUM> may be moved by the same motor that moves the third motorized chain <NUM>.

Preferably, the recirculation stretch T2 comprises an ascent zone Z3, in which the sticks <NUM> provided by the uncoupling station <NUM> are guided towards the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

The handling structure <NUM> preferably comprises, at the ascent zone Z3, a second fixed chain or rack <NUM>.

The handling structure <NUM> preferably comprises, at the ascent zone Z3, a fifth motorized chain <NUM>.

Since they are subjected to the action of the fifth motorized chain <NUM> and of the second fixed chain or rack <NUM>, the sticks 20d in the ascent zone Z3 advance rotating about their own longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the second fixed chain or rack <NUM> and the fifth motorized chain <NUM> extend according to a substantially vertical direction, from the uncoupling station <NUM> up to the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

The fifth motorized chain <NUM> is moved by a fourth motor M4 that is active on a respective toothed wheel coupled to the fifth motorized chain <NUM> itself.

Preferably, the second fixed chain or rack <NUM> and the fifth motorized chain <NUM> engage the second toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks 20d.

Preferably, the fourth motor M4, which is active on the fifth motorized chain <NUM>, is adjusted at controlled speed so as to provide the accelerations required to form the folds.

The machine <NUM> comprises an uncoupling station <NUM> positioned in the recirculation stretch T2.

The uncoupling station <NUM> is configured to adjust a distance between a respective stick <NUM> and the next stick and/or the preceding stick.

Preferably, the uncoupling station <NUM> is positioned between the directing zone Z2 and the ascent zone Z3 of the recirculation stretch T2.

As will be clearer below, the sticks coming from the directing zone Z2 are caused to remain stationary at the uncoupling station <NUM> and then to be picked in a controlled manner to continue along the ascent zone Z3.

Preferably, the sticks enter the uncoupling station <NUM> according to a determined order and leave from the uncoupling station <NUM> according to the same order.

Preferably, the uncoupling station <NUM> (<FIG>) comprises a buffer <NUM> configured to accommodate one or more sticks 20e coming from the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 and substantially to keep such sticks 20e stationary.

The sticks <NUM> are fed directly to the uncoupling station <NUM>, and in particular to the buffer <NUM>, by an advancement chain, preferably consisting of the aforesaid fourth motorized chain <NUM>.

Preferably, the buffer <NUM> comprises a chain portion 41a, kept in motion by a motorized member, and supporting sticks 20e present in the buffer <NUM>.

Preferably, the chain portion 41a is part of the fourth motorized chain <NUM>.

Preferably, the buffer <NUM> comprises a first locking device 41b for stopping the advancement of the sticks <NUM> present in the buffer <NUM> itself while the chain portion 41a is kept in motion.

The first locking device 41b may be made as a piston or other electromechanical device capable of acting on the stick 20e, for example abutting against the stick 20e itself, and of stopping the advancement of the same stick 20e.

The first locking device 41b may for example, act on the tubular body <NUM> or on the driving wheel <NUM> of the stick 20e.

The first locking device 41b is controllable between a first condition (<FIG>), in which it acts on a stick 20e present in the buffer <NUM>, thus preventing the same from advancing, and a second condition (<FIG>), in which it does not act on such stick.

Preferably, the uncoupling station <NUM> comprises a support element 41c supporting a stick 20f in most advanced position, according to the advancement direction of the sticks <NUM> along the path P, with respect to the sticks 20e present in the buffer <NUM>.

In other words, the uncoupling station <NUM> preferably accommodates a plurality of sticks which arrive from the uncoupling station <NUM> itself in ordered sequence, temporally from a first stick to a last stick, according to the sequence with which the sticks themselves are mounted on the machine <NUM>. The support element 41c supports the first of such sticks (stick 20f), that is the one which, among the sticks currently present in the uncoupling station <NUM>, is the one that arrived first. The buffer <NUM> accommodates the remaining sticks 20e that arrived in the uncoupling station <NUM> after the stick 20f.

Preferably, the first locking device 41b acts on the stick which is in the most advanced position among the ones present in the buffer <NUM>. The remaining sticks 20e are kept stationary by such stick in the most advanced position.

Preferably, the support element 41c is formed by a portion of the guide G present on the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

Preferably, the stick 20f supported by the support element 41c is not engaged by any chain or rack.

Preferably, the uncoupling station <NUM> further comprises a second locking device 41d configured to keep in position the stick 20f supported by the support element 41c.

The second locking device 41d may be made as a piston or other electromechanical device capable of acting on the stick 20f, for example abutting against the stick 20f itself, and of stopping the advancement of the same stick 20f.

The second locking device 41d may for example, act on the tubular body <NUM> or on the driving wheel <NUM> of the stick 20f.

The second locking device 41d is controllable between a first condition (<FIG>), in which it acts on the stick 20f, thus preventing the same from advancing, and a second condition (<FIG>), in which it does not act on such stick.

Preferably, the second locking device 41d operates in an alternating manner with respect to the first locking device 41b.

Preferably, when the first locking device 41b is in the first condition (locking the sticks present in the buffer <NUM>), the second locking device 41d is in the second condition, leaving free the stick 20f (when present). This situation is diagrammatically depicted in <FIG>.

Preferably, when the first locking device 41b is in the second condition (no interference with the sticks present in the buffer <NUM>), the second locking device 41d is in the first condition, leaving free the stick 20f (when present). This situation is diagrammatically depicted in <FIG>.

The synchronization between the first and the second locking device 41b, 41d may be obtained for example, by means of respective pneumatic actuators managed by the control unit <NUM>, which is described below.

Preferably, the uncoupling station <NUM> comprises an activation device <NUM> configured to act on a stick present in the uncoupling station <NUM> and to advance such stick towards the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

Preferably, the activation device <NUM> is controllable between a stand-by condition, in which it does not act on the sticks <NUM> present in the uncoupling station <NUM>, and an operating condition, in which it acts on at least one stick present in the uncoupling station <NUM>.

Preferably, in the operating condition, the activation device <NUM> acts on the stick which, according to the advancement direction of the sticks <NUM>, is in the most advanced position in the uncoupling station <NUM>.

Preferably, in the operating condition, the activation device <NUM> acts on the aforesaid stick 20f supported by the support element 41c.

Preferably, the activation device <NUM> (<FIG>) comprises a toothed wheel or chain portion 42a which, in the operating condition, couples with a toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM> belonging to a stick <NUM> present in the uncoupling station <NUM>.

Preferably, the activation device <NUM> further comprises a lever 42b, interlocked to an electromechanical actuator 42c. The lever 42b supports the aforesaid toothed wheel or chain portion 42a. The lever 42b, under the action of the electromechanical actuator 42c, moves the toothed wheel or chain portion 42a so as to engage one of the toothed wheels <NUM>, <NUM> of the stick 20f (operating condition), or so as not to engage any of the toothed wheels of the sticks present in the uncoupling station <NUM>.

Preferably, the activation device <NUM> acts on the second toothed wheel <NUM> of the stick 20f (or more generally, of the stick which, in the uncoupling station <NUM>, is in the most advanced position with respect to the others).

Preferably, the toothed wheel or chain portion 42a consists of the end part of the fifth motorized chain <NUM>.

Such stick is moved, under the action of the activation device <NUM>, so as to advance towards the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

Preferably, the activation device <NUM> operates in a synchronized manner with respect to the second locking device 41d: when the activation device <NUM> is to pick the stick 20f (operating condition), the locking device is driven into its second condition.

Preferably, the machine <NUM> comprises a control unit <NUM> configured to send a control signal SIG to the activation device <NUM> to drive the latter from the stand-by condition to the operating condition.

The control unit <NUM> may be an electronic unit. In particular, the control unit <NUM> may be part of the electronic device or control system (e.g. PLC) that manages the whole operation of the machine <NUM>.

In terms of operation of the machine <NUM>, the following is worth noting.

The printed fabric T is inserted into the machine <NUM> in a known manner, through the inlet opening <NUM>.

The sticks <NUM> coming from the ascent zone Z3 encounter such printed fabric T and, arriving at the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1, form respective folds with the printed fabric T itself.

Once a fold is formed, the respective stick <NUM> is advanced by the first motorized chain <NUM> preferably coupled to the second motorized chain <NUM>.

During the advancement of the sticks <NUM> along the operating stretch T1, the printed fabric T is subjected to the provided treatment (e.g. a steaming treatment) in a known manner, and therefore not further described.

The control unit <NUM> of the machine <NUM> adjusts the speed of the first and of the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM> along the operating stretch T1 to comply with the time the fabric remains in the treatment chamber.

In an operating configuration, the motorized chains <NUM>, <NUM> process at the same speed to allow the sticks to advance without rotating - that is, the sticks 20a are translated along the advancement direction.

In a different operating configuration, for example for process reasons, it is possible for the rotation of the sticks 20a in the advancement direction to be required simultaneously to the advancement caused by the first motorized chain <NUM>. Here, the second motorized chain <NUM> has a faster speed than the first motorized chain <NUM> so as to allow the rotation of the sticks. The speed of the second motorized chain <NUM> therefore is to be adjusted so as to obtain the rotation required.

Preferably, the rotation of the sticks 20a along the operating stretch T1 is not carried out in time intervals in which there are sticks that are to be transferred from the recirculation stretch T2 to the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1 or from the end of the operating stretch T1B to the recirculation stretch T2.

Preferably, the first and the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM> are moved at the same speed when a stick is to be transferred from the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 to the recirculation stretch T2 and when a stick is to be transferred from the recirculation stretch T2 to the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

Once it has arrived the end T1B of the operating stretch T1, the stick <NUM> is separated from the printed fabric T.

The treated printed fabric T is caused to exit the machine <NUM> by means of the outlet opening <NUM>.

The stick 20b is moved in the recirculation stretch T2 and in particular, in the retrieval zone Z1.

The control unit <NUM> of the machine <NUM> preferably adjusts the passage of the sticks from the end T1B of the operating stretch T1 to the recirculation stretch T2.

In particular, the control unit <NUM> adjusts the transfer of the sticks from the motorized chains <NUM>, <NUM> to the kinematic structure C2 formed by the first fixed chain or rack <NUM> and the third motorized chain <NUM>.

Therefore, the following operations are carried out:.

These steps preferably are performed each time a stick approaches the end T1B of the operating stretch T1.

The stick <NUM> then continues from the retrieval zone Z1 to the directing zone Z2.

The fourth motorized chain <NUM> of the directing zone Z2 preferably is moved by the same motor M3 of the third motorized chain <NUM> of the retrieval zone Z1.

Preferably, the motorized chains <NUM>, <NUM> are in phase with each other by mechanical construction.

The passage from the third motorized chain <NUM> to the fourth motorized chain <NUM> may therefore occur without performing particular controls.

As mentioned, the sticks 20c in the directing zone Z2 are resting on the fourth motorized chain <NUM> and translate advancing towards the uncoupling station <NUM>.

The end part of the fourth motorized chain <NUM> defines a part of the buffer <NUM> of the uncoupling station <NUM>.

In particular, the portion 41a of the fourth motorized chain <NUM> that supports the sticks 20e and which advancement is locked by the first locking device 41b is a part of the buffer <NUM>.

The first locking device 41b normally is in the first condition, that is in the condition in which it stops the advancement of the sticks 20e present on the chain portion 41a.

Preferably, the second locking device 41d normally is in the second condition.

The first locking device 41b is active at the end 90a of the fourth motorized chain <NUM>.

The second locking device is active at the support element 41c.

When a stick <NUM> arrives close to the end 90a of the fourth motorized chain <NUM>, two scenarios may occur:.

It is worth noting that when the sticks 20e are kept in the buffer <NUM>, they do not advance, but the tubular body <NUM> and the toothed wheels <NUM>, <NUM> rotate, under the action of the fourth motorized chain <NUM> and in particular of the portion 41a on which the sticks are resting. Preferably in this situation, the driving wheel <NUM> does not rotate due for example, to the bearings by means of which it is constrained to the tubular body <NUM>.

To prepare a stick for a new insertion in the operating stretch T1, the control unit <NUM> provides to drive the first locking device 41b in the second condition so that the first stick present on the chain portion 41a may translate forwards and become supported by the support element 41c.

The second locking device 41d is carried in the first condition so as to keep in position the stick that arrived at the support element 41c.

The first locking device 41b is then brought back to the first condition, so as to lock the next sticks 20e and prevent the same from arriving at the support element 41c while the stick 20f is occupying it.

When there is the need to add a stick to the process, the control unit <NUM> sends a control signal SIG to the activation device <NUM>.

The activation device <NUM> is driven by means of the control signal SIG from the stand-by condition to the operating condition.

Thereby, the stick <NUM> supported by the support element 41c is engaged and moved along the ascent zone Z3.

The second locking device 41d was carried to the second condition in advance so as not to hinder the activation device <NUM>.

It is worth noting that the activation of the activation device <NUM> is caused by the distance that is to be imposed between the various sticks and therefore, by the width desired for the folds of the fabric T.

Also the first locking device 41b and the second locking device 41d preferably are controlled on the basis of this logic in order to ensure the stick 20f is ready when the activation device <NUM> is to be activated.

The fifth motorized chain <NUM> picks the stick 20f stopped in known position, while the speed of the fifth motorized chain <NUM> itself is detected through an encoder mounted on the end of the fifth motorized chain <NUM> itself.

When the waiting stick 20f has left the position in which it is supported by the support element 41c, the activation device <NUM> is brought back to the stand-by condition, waiting for another stick to be directed to the ascent zone Z3.

After being removed from the uncoupling station <NUM>, the stick 20f (that became a "stick 20d") travels the ascent zone Z3 due to the fifth motorized chain <NUM> and to the second fixed chain or rack <NUM>, and arrives close to the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1.

At the end of the ascent zone Z3, the stick 20d is inserted at the beginning T1A of the operating stretch T1. In particular, the stick leaves the fifth motorized chain <NUM> and the second fixed chain or rack <NUM> and is engaged by the first motorized chain <NUM> (preferably in cooperation with the second motorized chain <NUM>).

Preferably, the stick leaves the second fixed chain or rack <NUM> first to engage the second motorized chain <NUM> (meanwhile, it continues to be engaged also by the fifth motorized chain <NUM>). To this end, the fifth motorized chain <NUM> is carried in advance at the same speed and in phase with respect to the first motorized chain <NUM>. Then, the stick leaves the fifth motorized chain <NUM> to engage the second motorized chain <NUM>. The first motorized chain <NUM> is already in phase with the second motorized chain <NUM>. <FIG>, <FIG> diagrammatically show the passages described above: references "A", "B", "C" indicate the next positions that the stick takes on in passing from the ascent stretch Z3 to the operating stretch T1.

Preferably, it is worth noting that each motorized chain belonging to the present invention may be provided with a chain tensioner device, made for example by means of a pneumatic actuator and intended to adjust the tension of the respective chain.

Preferably, the support rollers <NUM>, <NUM> are activated by specific motors which are controlled for example by means of inverter.

In an operating configuration, the support rollers <NUM>, <NUM> are activated with a constant, equal speed determined by the time the fabric remains in the chamber and the pace of the sticks.

In other operating configurations, it is provided for the rollers to have a non-constant speed. For example, the support roller <NUM> may be slowed down or even stopped to ensure the correct formation of the fold. Here, the average introduction speed of the fabric shall in any case be kept according to the process parameters and equal to the preferably constant speed of the outlet roller.

It is worth noting that the above description is intended for one side alone of the machine <NUM>. In other words, the first and the second motorized chain <NUM>, <NUM>, the first fixed chain or rack <NUM> and the third motorized chain <NUM>, the fourth motorized chain <NUM>, the second fixed chain or rack <NUM>, the fifth motorized chain <NUM>, are mounted at one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the box shaped treatment chamber <NUM>. There is a completely similar structure on the other side wall <NUM>, <NUM>, operating on the opposite end of the sticks <NUM>.

The same applies to the chain portion 41a, the first and the second locking device 41b, 41d (in particular, if they operate on the driving wheels <NUM>) and the support element 41c, and also to the activation device <NUM>.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a machine for the treatment of folded fabrics comprises (<FIG>):.

Preferably, the first kinematic structure C1 is moved independently with respect to the second kinematic structure C2.

Preferably, the first kinematic structure C1 is moved independently with respect to the fourth kinematic structure C4.

The sticks <NUM> are moved in sequence by the aforesaid kinematic structures C1, C2, C3, C4.

The sequence of first motorized chain <NUM>, third motorized chain <NUM>, fourth motorized chain <NUM> and fifth motorized chain <NUM> defines the path P along which the sticks <NUM> are caused to advance.

The uncoupling station <NUM> is interposed between the third kinematic structure C3 and the fourth kinematic structure C4.

The structure of the sticks <NUM> (schematized in <FIG>) is such that each kinematic structure C1 to C4 engages the first or the second toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM> of each stick, and the kinematic structures adjacent thereto engage the other toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM> of said sticks <NUM>.

In other words, if one kinematic structure C1 to C4 engages the first toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks, the preceding kinematic structure and/or the next kinematic structure engage the second toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks. Similarly, if one kinematic structure C1 to C4 engages the second toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks, the preceding kinematic structure and/or the next kinematic structure engage the first toothed wheel <NUM> of the sticks.

Generally, the presence of the first and of the second toothed wheel <NUM>, <NUM> at the ends of the sticks <NUM> is useful for the transfer of the stick from one kinematic structure C1 to C4 to the next.

Preferably, each kinematic structure C1 to C4 partly overlaps the preceding kinematic structure and/or next kinematic structure. In other words, the passage from a specific kinematic structure to the next one provides for each stick to be engaged by at least part of the specific kinematic structure and simultaneously with at least part of the next kinematic structure. It is worth noting that the third kinematic structure C3 and the fourth kinematic structure C4 are an exception, because they do not overlap each other, rather they are separated by the uncoupling station <NUM>.

If they are mechanically independent, the two partly overlapping kinematic structures preferably are put into phase with each other before the transfer is carried out. See by way of example, the description relating to the transfer of the sticks from the ascent zone Z3 to the operating stretch T1. <FIG>, <FIG> diagrammatically show that described above: stick <NUM> occupies the positions A, B, C (<FIG>) in sequence.

When the stick <NUM> is in position A (<FIG>, <FIG>), the second toothed wheel <NUM> is engaged with the fifth motorized chain <NUM> and with the second fixed chain or rack <NUM>. The first toothed wheel <NUM> is not engaged with any chain or rack. The wheel <NUM> is coupled to the guide G.

When the stick <NUM> is in position B (<FIG>, <FIG>), the second toothed wheel <NUM> is engaged with the fifth motorized chain <NUM>. The first toothed wheel <NUM> is engaged with the second motorized chain <NUM>. The wheel <NUM> is coupled to the guide G.

When the stick <NUM> is in position C (<FIG>, <FIG>), the second toothed wheel <NUM> is not engaged with any chain or rack. The first toothed wheel <NUM> is engaged with the first motorized chain <NUM> and with the second motorized chain <NUM>. The wheel <NUM> is coupled to the guide G.

Generally, there is a plurality of sticks <NUM> in the machine <NUM> which are moved along a closed path P.

There is a respective, substantially continuous guide G on each side wall <NUM>, <NUM>, which defines the aforesaid path P.

The sticks <NUM> extend from the side wall <NUM> to the side wall <NUM> and are kept substantially perpendicular to the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>.

The axial ends 21a, 21b of each stick <NUM> are engaged with the respective guides G, preferably by means of the aforesaid driving wheels <NUM>, <NUM>'.

The sticks <NUM> are caused to advance along the path P by means of a plurality of motorized chains <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, preferably according to a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal development of the sticks <NUM> themselves.

The invention achieves important advantages.

Firstly, the invention allows significantly reducing the risk that the folds of fabric may be soiled by coming into contact with one another due to undesired oscillations of the folds themselves.

Claim 1:
Machine for the treatment of folded printed fabrics comprising:
a) a box-shaped treatment chamber (<NUM>);
b) a plurality of sticks (<NUM>), for being operated in said treatment chamber (<NUM>) for supporting a printed fabric (T) and forming folds of said printed fabric (T)
c) a handling structure (<NUM>), for being active on said sticks (<NUM>) to advance said sticks (<NUM>) along a substantially closed path (P), according to a predetermined advancement direction,
wherein said path (P) comprises:
an operating stretch (T1), wherein said sticks are adapted to support the printed fabric (T), said operating stretch (T1) having a beginning (T1A) and an end (T1B);
a recirculation stretch (T2), wherein the handling structure (<NUM>) is adapted for transporting the sticks (<NUM>) from the end (T1B) of said operating stretch (T1) to the beginning
(T1A) of said operating stretch (T1), characterized in that said machine comprises:
d) an uncoupling station (<NUM>), for being active in said recirculation stretch (T2) and configured to adjust a distance between a respective stick (<NUM>) and the next stick along the substantially closed path (P); wherein said box-shaped treatment chamber (<NUM>) comprises a pair of side walls (<NUM>, <NUM>), said sticks (<NUM>) being substantially perpendicular to said side walls (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein each of said side walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) is provided with a guide (G), said guide (G) being substantially continuous along said closed path (P) and guiding said sticks (<NUM>) along said closed path (P).