High speed fabric folder

Abstract

The disclosure is directed to apparatus for folding processed fabric. It is particularly useful for, although not necessarily limited to, the folding of processed tubular knitted fabric. The folder is positioned at the discharge end of a fabric processing line, and is arranged to convey the fabric, moving at relatively high speed, to a discharge point directly above a folding platform. The fabric is then directed downward between guides, which oscillate back and forth over the folding platform, to lay the fabric in successive layers of substantially uniform length. A significant feature of the invention relates to the construction of the oscillating guide member to accommodate passage of the fabric, moving downward at relatively high speeds while the oscillating guide is moving forward and backward at relatively high speed. The guide is constructed of opposed, relatively large panels, extending across the full width of the fabric and forming a gradually converging path, leading to discharge rollers at the lower end of the folding guide. The panels are air permeable over their entire working areas, so as to provide for a general but low velocity flow of air outward from the face of the panel. This serves to provide a cushion, minimizing contact between the fabric and the rapidly oscillating guide panels, such that the downward movement of the fabric is uninhibited.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.