DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of textile manufacturing, specifically to systems and methods for controlling the movement of overhead cleaning devices in Ring frame spinning machines. The invention addresses the integration and coordination of overhead cleaner trunks with piecing robots to prevent collisions and enhance operational efficiency.

Application of the Invention

The invention is applicable in the textile industry, particularly in facilities utilizing Ring frame spinning machines equipped with piecing robots. The system is designed to improve the safety and efficiency of cleaning operations by preventing collisions between overhead cleaner trunks and piecing robots. This is achieved through a control module that dynamically adjusts the position of the cleaner trunk based on signals received from the piecing robot. The invention can be implemented in new installations or retrofitted into existing systems, providing a versatile solution for enhancing the automation and reliability of textile manufacturing processes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the textile industry, Ring frame spinning machines are widely used for producing yarn. These machines often incorporate piecing robots to automatically attend to yarn breaks, thereby enhancing productivity and reducing manual intervention. Concurrently, overhead cleaners are employed to maintain cleanliness by removing lint and dust from the machine components and surrounding areas. These cleaners typically travel along guide rails above the Ring frames, using suction and blowing mechanisms to perform their cleaning tasks.

Prior Art Problems

A significant challenge arises when both piecing robots and overhead cleaners operate within the same space. The movement of the overhead cleaner trunks, which are equipped with nozzles for air blowing, can interfere with the operation of piecing robots. This interference can lead to collisions, causing damage to both the piecing robots and the overhead cleaner trunks. Such collisions not only result in equipment downtime and increased maintenance costs but also disrupt the production process, leading to inefficiencies.

Prior Art Disadvantages

Existing solutions, such as those described in WO/2025/012488 A1, involve swiveling mechanisms for blow pipes that attempt to avoid collisions. However, these systems often rely on complex mechanical components and sensors that can be prone to failure. Additionally, they may not provide the level of precision and adaptability required to effectively manage the dynamic interactions between piecing robots and overhead cleaners in a fast-paced production environment.

Technical Solution of the Present Invention

The present invention provides a method and system for controlling the movement of overhead cleaner trunks in Ring frames, specifically designed to prevent collisions with piecing robots. The invention includes an overhead cleaner control module equipped with signal receivers, a control unit, and a drive motor. The system receives signals from a piecing robot's transmitter, processes these signals to determine the relative positions, and adjusts the cleaner trunk's position accordingly. This dynamic adjustment is achieved through a pulley system driven by the motor, allowing the trunk to rotate and avoid interference with the robot.

Technical Effect

The technical effect of the present invention is the seamless coordination between overhead cleaners and piecing robots, ensuring uninterrupted operation of both systems. By dynamically adjusting the position of the cleaner trunk, the invention minimizes the risk of collisions, thereby reducing equipment damage and maintenance requirements. This leads to improved operational efficiency and productivity in textile manufacturing processes.

Technical Advancement
The invention represents a significant technical advancement over prior art by integrating signal-based communication and control mechanisms. Unlike mechanical swiveling systems, the present invention offers greater precision and reliability through electronic control, allowing for real-time adjustments based on the position of the piecing robot. This advancement enhances the adaptability of the system to various operational scenarios and machine configurations.

Need for the Present Invention
The need for the present invention arises from the increasing automation in textile manufacturing and the demand for systems that can operate harmoniously without manual intervention. As production facilities strive for higher efficiency and reduced downtime, the ability to prevent collisions between automated systems becomes crucial. The present invention addresses this need by providing a robust and adaptable solution that enhances the safety and efficiency of Ring frame operations, ultimately contributing to improved productivity and cost-effectiveness in the textile industry.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The primary object of the present invention is to provide a method and system for controlling the movement of overhead cleaner trunks in Ring frame spinning machines to prevent collisions with piecing robots, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Additional objects of the invention include:

1. To integrate a signal-based communication system between the piecing robot and the overhead cleaner control module, enabling real-time adjustments to the cleaner trunk's position.
2. To utilize a control unit and drive motor to dynamically adjust the rotational movement of the overhead cleaner trunk, ensuring precise and reliable operation.
3. To incorporate sensing devices for monitoring the home and end positions of the cleaner trunk, facilitating accurate control and preventing interference with the piecing robot.
4. To provide a system that can be easily retrofitted into existing Ring frame installations or integrated into new setups, offering versatility and adaptability across different textile manufacturing environments.
5. To reduce equipment downtime and maintenance costs by minimizing the risk of collisions and associated damage to the piecing robots and overhead cleaner trunks.
6. To enhance the overall productivity and efficiency of textile manufacturing processes by ensuring seamless coordination between automated systems within the Ring frame environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary of the invention to provide basic understanding of some aspects of the invention, neither to identify the critical elements nor to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concept of the invention in a simplified form, as a prelude to a more detailed description of the invention presented later.
In an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of controlling the movement of Overhead cleaner trunk in Ring frames. The method involves an Overhead Cleaner control module which can be fitted on the Overhead cleaner. The Ring frame piecing robot which attends the yarn breaks is made equipped with a signal transmitter. One or more signal transmitters can be made equipped in the piecing robot. The Overhead cleaner control module comprises of signal receiver. One or more signal receivers can be integrated in the Overhead cleaner control module. The signal receivers are connected to a Control unit of Overhead cleaner control module. Also, a drive motor is connected to the Control unit which drives a pulley connected to the Overhead cleaner trunk. The receivers form a part of Overhead cleaner control module.
In an aspect of the present invention when the piecing robot approaches near the Overhead cleaner or vice versa, the signal transmitter of the piecing robot gives signal to the signal receiver of the Overhead cleaner control module. This signal is taken to the control unit and the control unit initiates the drive motor to drive. The motor pulley can be driven in clock wise or anti-clock wise direction according to the signal transmitter or signal receiver position from which the signal is received. When the motor is rotated in a specific direction, the driven pulley which is connected to the Overhead cleaner trunk is also driven. Thus, the Overhead cleaner trunk turns in clock wise or anti-clock wise direction. The degree of rotation, the home and end positions of the overhead cleaner trunk movement can be controlled either by means of timing or by installing a sensing device. When the overhead cleaner trunk is rotated, the nozzles of the trunk gives way to the piecing robot and avoids collision. Once the piecing robot crosses the Overhead cleaner or vice versa, the overhead cleaner trunk returns back to its original position by rotating the motor in alternate direction.
Other aspects, advantages and salient features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses exemplary embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

The above and other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will be better understood with regard to the following description and accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 illustrates the Overhead cleaner and a piecing robot.
Figure 2 illustrates the side view of the piecing robot and Overhead cleaner with Overhead cleaner control module.
Figure 3 illustrates the top view of the piecing robot and Overhead cleaner with Overhead cleaner control module.
Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and may have not been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figure may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

Detailed Description of the Invention
The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary.
Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known structure and method are omitted for clarity and conciseness.
The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Features that are described and/or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same way or in a similar way in one or more other embodiments and/or in combination with or instead of the features of the other embodiments.
It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” if used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or component but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.
In one embodiment, the system designed to control the movement of an overhead cleaner trunk within a Ring frame environment integrates several key components to ensure seamless operation and collision avoidance with a piecing robot.

The system includes a piecing robot equipped with a signal transmitter capable of emitting wireless signals. These signals are crucial for communication between the piecing robot and the overhead cleaner control module. The control module is mounted on the overhead cleaner and features a signal receiver that captures the signals emitted by the piecing robot. This setup allows for real-time communication and coordination between the two systems.

Central to the control module is a control unit that processes the signals received from the signal receiver. The control unit is programmed to interpret these signals to determine the relative position of the piecing robot in relation to the overhead cleaner. Based on this information, the control unit sends commands to a drive motor, which is responsible for adjusting the position of the overhead cleaner trunk.

The drive motor in this embodiment is a stepper motor, chosen for its ability to provide precise control over rotational movements. The motor is connected to a pulley system, which includes a driving pulley and a driven pulley. These pulleys are designed with toothed gears to ensure synchronized and reliable movement. The driven pulley is directly connected to the overhead cleaner trunk, allowing it to rotate in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction as needed.

To ensure accurate positioning and prevent collisions, the system incorporates a sensing device equipped with optical sensors. These sensors continuously monitor the position of the overhead cleaner trunk, providing feedback to the control unit. This feedback loop allows the control unit to make real-time adjustments to the trunk's position, ensuring it moves out of the way of the piecing robot and returns to its original position once the robot has passed.

The system is designed to be easily integrated into existing Ring frame setups or new installations, offering flexibility and adaptability. By preventing collisions and ensuring smooth operation, the system enhances the efficiency and safety of the textile manufacturing process, reducing downtime and maintenance costs associated with equipment damage. This embodiment demonstrates the system's capability to operate autonomously, minimizing the need for manual intervention and contributing to a more streamlined and productive manufacturing environment.

In another embodiment, the method for controlling the movement of an overhead cleaner trunk in a Ring frame environment involves a series of coordinated steps designed to prevent collisions with a piecing robot and ensure efficient operation.

The method begins with the piecing robot, which is equipped with a signal transmitter. As the robot approaches the overhead cleaner, it emits wireless signals. These signals are received by a signal receiver integrated into the overhead cleaner control module. The reception of these signals initiates the communication process between the piecing robot and the overhead cleaner.

Once the signals are received, they are processed by a control unit within the control module. The control unit is programmed to interpret the signals to determine the relative position of the piecing robot in relation to the overhead cleaner. Based on this positional information, the control unit makes decisions regarding the necessary adjustments to the position of the overhead cleaner trunk.

The control unit then activates a drive motor, which is responsible for executing the movement of the overhead cleaner trunk. The drive motor, typically a stepper motor, is chosen for its precision in controlling rotational movements. It is connected to a pulley system that includes both a driving pulley and a driven pulley. These pulleys are designed with toothed gears to ensure synchronized movement, allowing the overhead cleaner trunk to rotate smoothly in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

As the overhead cleaner trunk moves, a sensing device equipped with optical sensors continuously monitors its position. These sensors provide real-time feedback to the control unit, ensuring that the trunk's movement is accurately controlled and that it avoids any potential collision with the piecing robot. The sensors also help in determining the home and end positions of the trunk, allowing it to return to its original position once the piecing robot has passed.

Throughout the process, the method ensures that the overhead cleaner trunk dynamically adjusts its position to accommodate the movement of the piecing robot, thereby preventing any interference or collision. This method enhances the operational efficiency and safety of the Ring frame environment by minimizing the risk of equipment damage and reducing the need for manual intervention.

The method is designed to be easily implemented in existing Ring frame setups or new installations, providing a versatile solution that can adapt to various operational scenarios. By ensuring seamless coordination between the overhead cleaner and the piecing robot, the method contributes to a more streamlined and productive textile manufacturing process.

In another embodiment, the overhead cleaner trunk is designed as a pivotal component within a Ring frame environment, tasked with maintaining cleanliness and operational efficiency. The trunk is vertically oriented and equipped with multiple nozzles that facilitate the blowing and suction of air, effectively removing lint, dust, and other debris from the machine components and surrounding areas.

The trunk is mounted on a guide rail system that allows it to traverse the length of the Ring frame. This mobility is essential for covering the entire operational area, ensuring comprehensive cleaning coverage. The trunk's movement is controlled by an integrated control module, which dynamically adjusts its position to prevent collisions with other equipment, such as piecing robots.

The control module includes a signal receiver that communicates with signal transmitters associated with the piecing robots. This communication enables the trunk to receive real-time positional data, allowing it to adjust its movement accordingly. The control module processes this data and sends commands to a drive motor, which is responsible for executing the trunk's movement.

The drive motor is connected to a pulley system, which facilitates the rotation of the trunk. The pulley system is designed with precision-engineered components, such as toothed gears, to ensure synchronized and reliable movement. This setup allows the trunk to rotate in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, providing flexibility in its positioning.

To ensure accurate control and prevent interference with other equipment, the trunk is equipped with a sensing device. This device includes optical sensors that continuously monitor the trunk's position, providing feedback to the control module. The sensors help determine the trunk's home and end positions, ensuring it returns to its original location once cleaning operations are complete or when a piecing robot has passed.

The overhead cleaner trunk is constructed from durable materials that withstand the rigors of continuous operation in a textile manufacturing environment. Its design prioritizes ease of maintenance and integration, allowing it to be retrofitted into existing setups or incorporated into new installations with minimal effort.

Overall, the embodiment of the overhead cleaner trunk demonstrates its capability to operate autonomously, minimizing the need for manual intervention and enhancing the efficiency and safety of the Ring frame environment. By dynamically adjusting its position and coordinating with other automated systems, the trunk contributes to a streamlined and productive manufacturing process, reducing downtime and maintenance costs associated with equipment damage.

In another embodiment, the present invention describes Fig 1 shows the Overhead cleaner (3) having vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) with nozzles (5) moving on a guide rail. In the path of movement of the Overhead cleaner (3), the piecing robot (1) is performing its piecing operations in the Ring frame. The piecing robot (1) comprises of one or more signal transmitters (6) fitted to it. Also, the vertical trunk of Overhead cleaner (3) is fitted with Overhead cleaner trunk (2). The overhead cleaner control module (2) is fitted to the overhead cleaner trunk (4)

Fig 2 shows the piecing robot (1) approaching near the Overhead cleaner (3). The trunk (4) of the Overhead cleaner (3) is fitted with Overhead cleaner control module (2). The Overhead cleaner control module (3) comprises of one or more signal receivers (7). Also, the Overhead cleaner module is fitted to the vertical trunk (4) of the Overhead cleaner (3). A drive motor (8) is connected to the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) of the overhead cleaner (3). The drive motor (8) and the signal receivers (7) are connected to a control unit (9). The signal transmitter (6) activates one of the signal receivers (7) connected to the Overhead cleaner control module (2). The signal receivers (7) sends signal to control unit (9) which in turn activates the drive motor (8). The driving pulley (11) of the drive motor (8) rotates either in clock wise or anti clock wise direction. This in turn drives the driven pulley (12) which is connected to the Overhead cleaner trunk (4). The driving and driven pulleys (11 & 12) comprises of toothed gears for driving operation. This makes the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) to turn in either clock wise or anti clock wise direction. Thus, the nozzles (5) of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) is avoided from collision with the piecing robot (1) during movement of either Overhead cleaner (3) or piecing robot (1) or both. The sensing devices (10) help to control the rotational movement, home and end positions of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).
Fig 3 shows the piecing robot (1) with signal transmitters (6) fitted to it. The drive motor (8) drives the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) of the Overhead cleaner (3). The Overhead cleaner control module (2) comprises of one or more signal receivers (7). The signal from the signal receivers is transmitted to the control unit (9) which in turn activates the drive motor (8). The driving pulley (11) of the drive motor (8) rotates either in clock wise or anti clock wise direction. This in turn drives the driven pulley (12) which is connected to the Overhead cleaner trunk (4). The driving and driven pulleys (11 & 12) comprises of toothed gears for driving operation. This makes the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) to rotate in either clock wise or anti clock wise direction. The sensing devices (10) help to control the rotational movement, home and end positions of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

Advantages of the Invention

1. Collision Prevention: The invention effectively prevents collisions between overhead cleaner trunks and piecing robots, reducing the risk of equipment damage and associated downtime.

2. Enhanced Operational Efficiency: By ensuring seamless coordination between the overhead cleaner and piecing robot, the invention enhances the overall efficiency of Ring frame operations, leading to increased productivity.

3. Real-Time Adjustments: The signal-based communication system allows for real-time adjustments to the position of the overhead cleaner trunk, ensuring precise and reliable operation in dynamic environments.

4. Reduced Maintenance Costs: Minimizing collisions and equipment damage leads to lower maintenance costs and longer equipment lifespan, contributing to cost savings for textile manufacturers.

5. Versatility and Adaptability: The system can be easily retrofitted into existing installations or integrated into new setups, offering flexibility across different textile manufacturing environments.

6. Improved Safety: The invention enhances the safety of automated systems within the Ring frame environment by preventing interference and ensuring smooth operation.

7. Ease of Integration: The modular design of the overhead cleaner control module allows for straightforward integration with existing systems, facilitating quick and efficient implementation.

8. Increased Productivity: By reducing manual intervention and ensuring uninterrupted operation of both the overhead cleaner and piecing robot, the invention contributes to higher productivity levels in textile manufacturing processes.

The descriptions and illustrations provided in this document are intended to explain the principles of the invention and its best mode of working. They are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the claims. Variations and modifications to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The specific embodiments described in this document are examples of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claims should be interpreted broadly to cover all equivalent structures and methods that fall within the scope of the invention. The technical specifications and details provided in this document are for illustrative purposes only. Actual implementations of the invention may vary based on specific design requirements, manufacturing processes, and application needs.

Any references to prior art documents, patents, or publications are provided for informational purposes only. The inclusion of such references does not imply that the present invention is limited by or dependent on the prior art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM
1. An Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) for a Ring frame, comprising:
a signal receiver (7) configured to receive signals from a signal transmitter (6) associated with a piecing robot (1);
a control unit (9) operatively connected to the signal receiver (7), wherein the control unit (9) is configured to process signals received from the signal receiver (7);
a drive motor (8) operatively connected to the control unit (9), wherein the drive motor (8) is configured to rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction in response to signals processed by the control unit (9);
a pulley system comprising a driving pulley (11) and a driven pulley (12), wherein the driving pulley (11) is connected to the drive motor (8) and the driven pulley (12) is connected to a vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4), the pulley system being configured to drive the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction and wherein the driving pulley (11) and driven pulley (12) comprises of toothed gears;
a sensing device (10) configured to control the rotational movement, home position, and end position of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4);
wherein the Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) is configured to adjust the position of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) to avoid collision with the piecing robot (1) during operation.
2. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, wherein the signal receiver (7) is configured to receive wireless signals from the signal transmitter (6) to facilitate communication between the piecing robot (1) and the control unit (9).

3. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, wherein the drive motor (8) is a stepper motor, providing precise control over the rotational movement of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4).

4. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, wherein the sensing device (10) comprises optical sensors to detect the home and end positions of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4).

5. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, wherein the control unit (9) is configured to store pre-programmed rotational paths for the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) to optimize movement and avoid collision with the piecing robot (1).

6. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, further comprising a manual override mechanism allowing an operator to manually control the position of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) in the event of a system failure.

7. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, wherein the pulley system includes toothed gears on the driving pulley (11) and driven pulley (12) to ensure synchronized movement of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4).

8. The Overhead Cleaner Control Module (2) of claim 1, wherein the control unit (9) is configured to provide feedback to the piecing robot (1) regarding the position of the vertical overhead cleaner trunk (4) to enhance coordination between the two systems.

9. A method for controlling the movement of an overhead cleaner trunk (4) in a Ring frame, comprising the steps of:
receiving a signal from a signal transmitter (6) associated with a piecing robot (1) using a signal receiver (7) integrated into an overhead cleaner control module (2);
processing the received signal in a control unit (9) operatively connected to the signal receiver (7);
activating a drive motor (8) based on the processed signal, wherein the drive motor (8) is configured to rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction;
driving a pulley system comprising a driving pulley (11) and a driven pulley (12) using the drive motor (8), wherein the driven pulley (12) is connected to the overhead cleaner trunk (4);
rotating the overhead cleaner trunk (4) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to adjust its position;
utilizing a sensing device (10) to control the rotational movement, home position, and end position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4);
repositioning the overhead cleaner trunk (4) to avoid collision with the piecing robot (1) during operation.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of transmitting feedback from the control unit (9) to the piecing robot (1) to confirm the adjusted position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of receiving a signal involves detecting wireless signals transmitted by the signal transmitter (6) to the signal receiver (7).

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of manually overriding the control unit (9) to adjust the position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4) in the event of a system failure.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of processing the received signal includes executing pre-programmed algorithms in the control unit (9) to determine the optimal rotational path for the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of using optical sensors within the sensing device (10) to detect the home and end positions of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of activating the drive motor (8) includes controlling a stepper motor to provide precise rotational movement of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

16. The method of claim 9, further comprising the step of synchronizing the movement of the overhead cleaner trunk (4) with the operation of the piecing robot (1) to enhance coordination between the two systems.

17. A system for controlling the movement of an overhead cleaner trunk (4) in a Ring frame, comprising:
a piecing robot (1) equipped with a signal transmitter (6) configured to emit signals;
an overhead cleaner control module (2) comprising:
a signal receiver (7) configured to receive signals from the signal transmitter (6);
a control unit (9) operatively connected to the signal receiver (7), wherein the control unit (9) is configured to process the received signals;
a drive motor (8) operatively connected to the control unit (9), wherein the drive motor (8) is configured to rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction in response to signals processed by the control unit (9);
a pulley system comprising a driving pulley (11) and a driven pulley (12), wherein the driving pulley (11) is connected to the drive motor (8) and the driven pulley (12) is connected to the overhead cleaner trunk (4), the pulley system being configured to drive the overhead cleaner trunk (4) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction and wherein the driving pulley (11) and driven pulley (12) comprises of toothed gears;
a sensing device (10) configured to control the rotational movement, home position, and end position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4);
wherein the system is configured to adjust the position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4) to avoid collision with the piecing robot (1) during operation.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the signal receiver (7) is configured to receive wireless signals from the signal transmitter (6) to facilitate communication between the piecing robot (1) and the control unit (9).

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the drive motor (8) is a stepper motor, providing precise control over the rotational movement of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

20. The system of claim 17, wherein the sensing device (10) comprises optical sensors to detect the home and end positions of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

21. The system of claim 17, wherein the control unit (9) is configured to store pre-programmed rotational paths for the overhead cleaner trunk (4) to optimize movement and avoid collision with the piecing robot (1).

22. The system of claim 17, further comprising a manual override mechanism allowing an operator to manually control the position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4) in the event of a system failure.

23. The system of claim 17, wherein the pulley system includes toothed gears on the driving pulley (11) and driven pulley (12) to ensure synchronized movement of the overhead cleaner trunk (4).

24. The system of claim 17, wherein the control unit (9) is configured to provide feedback to the piecing robot (1) regarding the position of the overhead cleaner trunk (4) to enhance coordination between the two systems.

Dated this 16th day of April 2025