Yarn diameter measurements using coherent optical signal processing

Abstract

A method to measure variations in yarn diameter using coherent optical signal processing based on a single photodiode plus additional electronics is described. The approach enables us to quantify yarn irregularities associated with diameter variations which are Iinearly correlated with yarn mass variations. A robust method of system auto-calibration, eliminating the need for a temperature and humidity controlled environment, is also demonstrated. Two yarns that span the diameter ranges commonly used in the textile industry were used to verify the system linearity and ascertain its resolution. The results obtained have been verified using image analysis. Moreover, a diameter characterization was performed under real-world conditions for three types of yarns and a correlation with capacitive measurements is also presented. The system with sensitivity of 0.034 V/mm2 is able to detect minute variations of yarn diameter and characterize irregularities starting at very low thresholds (commercial systems generally characterize variations of 30% or greater relative to the average value).