Position holder positioning assemblies, textiles having position holders therein, and related methods

Abstract

A position holder positioning assembly (100) configured to mark a position of at least one structural feature (610) in a textile (600), the position holder positioning assembly (100) configured to operate in cooperation with a textile (600) production machine (10) and engage the at least one structural feature (610) in the textile (600) with a position holder (500), the position holder positioning assembly (100) includes a position holder positioning unit (110) configured to engage the at least one position holder (500) with the at least one structural feature (610) to mark a position of the at least one structural feature (610).

Description

[0001] Related applications This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 525,933, filed July 10, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a placeholder positioning component for marking structures in textiles, and related methods. Background Technology

[0003] Linking is a machine sewing technology specifically designed for constructing garments from knitted components. A linking machine is a chain stitch sewing machine reinforced by a needle plate (sometimes a needle crown) at the needle tip. The sewing mechanism mechanically adapts to the angular spacing of the needle tips, creating exactly one stitch on each needle tip. The operator's task is to pin the workpieces to be linked, one on top of the other. The sewing head is then activated, and the stitches are automatically formed using the needle tips that hold the position where each stitch will arrive. As with other sewing processes, stitch formation is highly automated, fast, accurate, and generally technically very sophisticated.

[0004] German Patent No. 685,505 describes a straight needle transfer. US Patent No. 6,089,049 describes loading the knitted facing at the first knitting station directly onto the transfer bar and onto the unloading station, so that the knitted facing loaded on the transfer bar can be directly transferred to the knitting head at the second knitting station. Various techniques for stitching are discussed in the following patents: U.S. Patents Nos. 3,340,834, 4,846,085, 5,619,940, and 5,730,075; Japanese Patent Publications Nos. JPH03258287A, JPS52125052A, JPH063160692A, JPH05305191A, JPH05305192A, and JPH05305195A; and Japanese Patent Publications CN110685073A, CN113026220B, CN113026219A, CN109457398, CN113026219A, and CN201176508Y.

[0005] However, problems remain in automating many sewing or stitching processes used on a variety of textile fabrics due to the difficulty of introducing soft workpieces into the machine and positioning them accurately. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a position retainer positioning assembly is configured to mark the position of at least one structural feature in a textile. The position retainer positioning assembly is configured to operate in cooperation with a textile production machine and to engage at least one structural feature in the textile with a position retainer. The position retainer positioning assembly includes a position retainer positioning unit configured to engage at least one position retainer with the at least one structural feature, thereby marking the position of the at least one structural feature.

[0007] In some embodiments, a textile is provided that includes a plurality of structural features marked for positioning on a second machine. The textile includes: at least one anchoring member; and a plurality of position retainers configured to engage corresponding structural features among the plurality of structural features and connected to the anchoring member, thereby marking the plurality of structural features.

[0008] In some embodiments, a method for storing / marking multiple structural features in a textile panel includes: a) engaging one of the multiple structural features in the textile panel; and b) positioning one of a plurality of position holders through the structural feature. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0010] Figure 1 It is a knitting machine based on existing technology.

[0011] Figure 2A-2B This is a perspective view of a position holding positioning assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figures 3A-3B It is installed on a knitting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figure 1 (as shown in A-1E) Figure 2A-2B Front perspective view and magnified front perspective view of the positioning component.

[0013] Figures 4A-4B yes Figures 3A-3B An enlarged view of the components, illustrating the anchoring member of a joined textile piece (e.g., a knitted fabric) according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0014] Figure 5A The illustration shows an exemplary textile piece having multiple structural features (e.g., loops) that can be marked using a position-holding positioning component according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0015] Figure 5BThis is a partial perspective view of an anchoring member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 5C This is a partial perspective view of an alternative anchoring member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 6A This is a side view of the positioning assembly of the position retainer, illustrating the starting position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 6B This is a side view of the positioning assembly of the position retainer, illustrating the position where the retainer extends between the anchoring members and above the target feature (e.g., a loop) according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0019] Figure 6C This is an enlarged view, showing the holder in the position as shown. Figure 6B The extension positions between the anchoring members shown.

[0020] Figure 6D-6F This is an enlarged view of the alternative operation of the needle tip (e.g., needle) of a knitting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the transfer of the target feature to the retainer.

[0021] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view illustrating the target features of the retainer extending the textile fabric piece according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figures 8A-8B This is an enlarged view illustrating the movement of the anchoring member relative to the target feature to the appropriate position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figures 9A-9B This is a side perspective view illustrating the operation of inserting a position holding positioning unit through a target feature according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Figure 9C This is an enlarged view showing a positioning unit, according to an embodiment of the invention, inserted through the target feature and the anchoring member.

[0025] Figure 9D The illustration shows a position retainer (e.g., a suture) being picked up and engaged by a position retainer positioning unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 10 This is an enlarged view, illustrating that, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the position retainer is engaged by the position retainer positioning unit.

[0027] Figure 11A-11B The illustration shows a position holding member positioning unit according to an embodiment of the present invention pulling the position holding member back through the target feature and the anchoring member.

[0028] Figure 12The illustration shows, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the anchoring member moving vertically to the position of the second insertion of the receiving position retaining positioning unit.

[0029] Figures 13A-13B The illustration shows the operation of inserting a position holding member positioning unit with a position holding member for the second time through the target feature and the anchoring member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figures 14A-14B This is a side view illustrating the positioning of the end of the position retainer in the position retainer closure unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 14C-14I The illustration shows an alternative configuration for the insertion of the position holding member positioning unit and the position holding member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figures 15A-15C The illustration shows the operation of the position holding member closing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figures 16A-16C The illustration shows the operation of the cutting position holding member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figures 17A-17B The illustration shows an embodiment of the invention where the anchoring member moves vertically to lower the position holder to the appropriate position on the textile piece.

[0035] Figures 18A-18B The illustration shows the retainer returning to the starting position to engage the next target feature according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0036] Figures 19A-19D The illustration shows an exemplary textile cut piece with multiple position holding elements according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 19A-19B This shows a position retainer loosely held between the anchoring members. Figure 19C-19D This shows a position retainer that is tensioned between anchoring members.

[0037] Figure 20A This is a top perspective view of a reading device for textile fabric pieces according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 20B yes Figure 20A The side view of the reading device shown.

[0039] Figures 21A-21B yes Figures 20A-20B Further side and perspective views of the reading device shown.

[0040] Figures 22A-22B These are additional side and top perspective views illustrating the feeding system of a reading device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 22C This is according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 22A-22B An enlarged view of the feed component of the feeding system shown.

[0042] Figure 22D The illustration shows a reading device during operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 23 The diagram illustrates the tensioning unit of the reading device according to an embodiment of the present invention moving to the appropriate position.

[0044] Figures 24A-24B The illustration shows the tensioning unit moving according to an embodiment of the invention to provide tension on the target position holder.

[0045] Figure 24C The illustration shows an alternative configuration according to an embodiment of the invention, in which two position retainers are tensioned within the target feature.

[0046] Figure 25A The illustration shows the separation unit of the reading device according to an embodiment of the present invention moving to the appropriate position.

[0047] Figure 25B-25C This is according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25A Enlarged view of the position holding component fixing member of the separation unit.

[0048] Figure 26A The illustration shows a position holding member moving to the opposite side of a target feature (e.g., a loop).

[0049] Figure 26B It is a top view, which shows the position holding member fixed on the opposite side of the target feature.

[0050] Figures 27A-27B The illustration shows a needle tip (e.g., a needle) inserted through a target feature according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0051] Figures 28A-28C The illustration shows the operation of a blade assembly for a reading device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 29 The illustration shows a feeding system for advancing textile pieces within a reading device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figures 30A-30C The figure illustrates an alternative tensioning unit for a reading device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figures 31A-31C The illustration shows the operation of an alternative tensioning unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figures 32A-32B This is an enlarged view of an alternative tensioning unit that engages with a position holding member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 33 It is a perspective view illustrating the insertion of a needle tip by means of an alternative tensioning unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0057] Figure 34 The illustration shows the operation of the blade assembly after the needle tip is inserted, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0058] In some embodiments, the position-holding element positioning component can be configured to mark the position of structural features of a textile by means of the position-holding element. As described herein, the position-holding element can be used to place the textile on, for example, a sewing machine, or otherwise manipulate the textile for subsequent production and processing.

[0059] As used herein, a “structural feature” of a textile is any textile feature that enables a position holder to be held on or within that structural feature. For example, a “structural feature” may include a topological feature of a textile configured to hold a position holder on or within that topological feature, such as loops, tangles, or intersections between yarns in a woven fabric. A structural feature in a nonwoven fabric may be a position within the textile, such as a coordinate (xy) position within the textile.

[0060] As used in this article, “loops” in textiles include needle loops or sinker loops.

[0061] As used herein, “textile” includes any suitable textile configured as a holding element in the engagement position, including plain weft knitted textiles, plain warp knitted textiles, crocheted textiles, circular weft knitted textiles, circular warp knitted textiles, straight weft knitted textiles, or cotton frame textiles. “Textile” may be configured as a cut piece or may have a three-dimensional shape.

[0062] As used herein, a "position retainer" is a structure that can be positioned in or on a structural feature of a textile, such as a loop. A position retainer may pass through, be positioned around, or otherwise engage with a structural feature of the textile. In some embodiments, the position retainer is held in place by means of an anchoring member.

[0063] As used herein, an "anchor member" is a structure configured to connect to position retainers and is typically elongated. In some embodiments, one or more anchor members may connect to multiple position retainers. In this configuration, the anchor member(s) may hold a series of position retainers, for example, for subsequent placement on a sewing machine or sewing transfer machine.

[0064] Position holding component positioning assembly Figure 1 The existing technology knitting machine 10 includes a base 20 and needles 30 for forming or manufacturing textiles. For example... Figure 2A-2B The figure shows a position holding member positioning assembly 100, which is configured to position the textile by means of... Figure 1 During or after the manufacturing process of a knitting machine 10, the position of one or more structural features in the textile is marked by means of one or more position retainers 500.

[0065] The position retainer positioning assembly 100 includes a position retainer positioning unit 110, which has a position retainer positioner 112 and an actuator 114. The position retainer positioning assembly 100 also includes a retainer 120 configured to retain structural features in a textile, an anchor feeder 130 with two anchoring arms 132, a position retainer fitting device 140, and a position retainer closing unit 150. The position retainer positioning assembly 100 is configured to work with textile processing machines (such as...) Figure 1 The textile production machine or knitting machine 10) operates in cooperation with the textile and engages one or more structural features in the textile with the position retainer 500. As illustrated, the retainer 120 is configured to engage structural features in the textile such that the position retainer positioning assembly 100 operates in cooperation with the retainer 120 to engage and position the position retainer 500 at the structural feature to mark the position of the structural feature in the textile.

[0066] like Figures 3A-3B As shown, the position holder positioning assembly 100 is mounted on a knitting machine 10, which has a base 20 and needles 30 for knitting fabric. However, it should be understood that the position holder positioning assembly 100 may be positioned by a robot, operator, or frame to an adjacent textile processing machine (such as the knitting machine 10) to operate together with the knitting machine 10 to position the position holder 500 in the formed textile.

[0067] The positioning component 100 can be mounted on a textile processing machine or removably positioned adjacent to a textile processing machine, and can be configured to operate before, during or after the production of textiles on a textile production machine, which may include, for example, a flat weft knitting machine, a flat warp knitting machine, a crochet machine, a circular weft knitting machine, a circular warp knitting machine, a straight bar weft knitting machine, or a cotton spinning frame.

[0068] refer to Figures 4A-4B Each anchoring arm 132 can hold an anchoring member 700, thereby feeding the anchoring member into the position holding positioning assembly 100. Anchoring arms 132 include an end 134 with a feed pin 136 configured to hold the anchoring member 700 in a flat configuration with the needles 30 of an adjacent knitting machine 10. In this configuration, the anchoring arms 132 are configured to position the respective anchoring member 700 to the structural features of an adjacent textile 600. Figure 4B Furthermore, the position retainer positioning assembly 100 is configured to engage the structural features of the anchor member 700 and the textile 600 with the position retainer 500 (not shown).

[0069] An example of a knitted textile 600 having structural feature 610 is shown in... Figure 5A In the middle. Structural feature 610 includes loops and is illustrated as an example of a structural feature of textile 600. Example anchoring members 700A and 700B are illustrated respectively in Figure 5B and Figure 5C In the middle. Anchoring members 700, 700A, and 700B can be configured to engage with position retainer 500, thereby connecting structural feature 610 to one of anchoring members 700, 700A, and 700B (see example). Figures 19A-19D Anchoring members 700, 700A, and 700B can be flat or elongated to be fed along the textile 600. Figure 5C As shown, the anchoring member 700B includes an aperture 710B. It should be understood that the aperture 710B can be configured to receive the position retainer 500, or as an engagement mechanism for engaging with additional automated equipment. The aperture 710B is illustrated as a square or rectangular shape; however, the aperture can be any suitable shape, including circular or annular shapes. In some embodiments, the anchoring member can be a trapezoidal structure having elongated parallel members and crossbars extending therebetween, with apertures between the crossbars. The anchoring member can also be flexible.

[0070] An example operation for positioning the position retainer 500 and the anchoring member 700 (optional) in the textile 600 will now be described. Figure 6AAs illustrated, the position retainer 112 includes a pin 112A. It should be understood that the pin 112A can be any suitable structure for positioning the position retainer. The retainer 120 includes an end 122 for engaging structural feature 610 of the textile 600. Figure 6A and Figure 6C In the middle, the retainer 120 moves above the anchor arm 132.

[0071] Figure 6D-6F The illustrated knitting machine uses needle tips (e.g., needles) for alternative operations to maintain structural features. As shown, needle 220A with groove S elevates the structural feature 610 of the textile. Figure 6D The retainer pin 220B descends through the groove of pin 220A to engage structural feature 610. Figure 6E Needle 220A can be released and removed from structural feature 610, after which the structural feature remains in a position away from the textile 600, as... Figure 6F As illustrated in the diagram. Therefore, the retainer pin 220B functions in a manner similar to that of the retainer 120 and retainer end 122 as described herein.

[0072] like Figure 6D-6F as well as Figure 7 As shown, a structural feature 610 on a knitting tool 220A located on the needle bed Q can be transferred to a retainer needle 220B, and then the needle 220A can be retracted into the needle bed Q, thereby creating a gap between the needle bed Q and the constructed textile. In some embodiments, while the structural feature is held on the retainer needle 220B, the anchoring arm 132Q can move along the needle bed. In some embodiments, after moving the structural feature to the retainer needle 220B and moving the anchoring arm 132Q, the anchoring member 700 is thereby applied below the edge of the knitting machine, i.e., below the interface between the needle in the needle bed Q and the constructed textile 600. The structural feature 610 can then be placed on the return needle 220A, or on another knitting tool on the machine. In some embodiments, other knitting tools may be present on the knitting machine, such as needles on the needle bed Q opposite the origin bed of the structural feature, configured to occupy the structural feature 610, allowing the needle 220A to retract. In such embodiments, a transfer of the structural feature 610 can occur, allowing the arm 132 to move. In some embodiments, structural feature 610 can then be transferred back to needle 220A. For example... Figure 7 as well as Figures 8A-8BAs shown, the retainer 120 includes two elongated retainer arms 122A, each retainer arm 122A having a hook 122B extending substantially perpendicularly to the retainer arm 122A. The hook 122B is configured to engage structural feature 610 of the textile 600 and to displace structural feature 610 away from the textile 600, allowing the position retainer 500 to be positioned therein. Therefore, the position retainer can be inserted, normally knitted, or the structural feature 510 can be moved.

[0073] like Figure 9A As shown, the positioning unit 110 and the retainer 120 are aligned such that the structural feature 610 is engaged by the retainer 120 and positioned adjacent to or between anchor members 700. Figure 9B and Figure 9C As shown, needle 112A extends through both anchoring members 700 and through structural feature 610. Figure 9D As shown, needle 112A extends into position holder applicator 140 and engages position holder 500. As illustrated, position holder 500 is a suture or yarn or other elongated structure that can be held on a spool (not shown) by position holder applicator 140, for example.

[0074] like Figure 11A As illustrated, the needle 112A pull position retainer 500 passes through structural feature 610 and through two anchoring members 700. Figure 12 As shown, the needle 112A moves laterally and upward along the nearest anchoring member 700 to the position retainer 500, or the retainer 120 and anchoring arm 132 move the structural feature 610 and the anchoring member 700 to different positions relative to the needle 112A. Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, needle 112A is different from Figure 11A The lateral position shown crosses structural feature 610 again and passes through position retainer 500. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, position retainer 500 may extend beyond structural feature 610, thereby forming a loop shape around structural feature 610. For example... Figure 14A As shown, the needle 112A passes through the structural feature 610 and the anchoring member toward the position retainer applicator 140, such that the position retainer 500 is generally formed in a loop shape.

[0075] like Figure 14B As illustrated, the position retainer closure unit 150 includes a welder 152 and a position retainer hook 154 with a pin 156 for holding the position retainer 500 in place relative to the position retainer closure unit 150. The anchoring member 700 can be maintained in an orientation such that the main surface of the anchoring member 700 faces the structural feature 610. Figures 15A-15CAs shown in the diagram, the double-stranded wire of the position retainer 500 is positioned between the two heating elements 152A and 152B of the welder 152, which are initially in the open position. Figure 15A ).exist Figure 15B In the middle, heating elements 152A and 152B close to weld the twin wires of the position retainer 500 together, and then heating elements 152A and 152B open to release the position retainer 500, which is now in a closed or continuous loop configuration.

[0076] Therefore, the position retainer closure unit 150 is configured to connect the first part of the position retainer 500 to the second part of the position retainer, thereby forming a closed shape of the position retainer 500.

[0077] Although the position retainer closure unit 150 is illustrated as a thermal device configured to weld a first portion of the position retainer 500 to a second portion, any suitable closure mechanism can be used, such as an ultrasonic device configured to bond the first portion to the second portion, a knotting unit configured to form a knot between the first and second portions, an adhesive unit configured to apply or activate adhesive to bond the first and second portions, a joining unit configured to permanently connect the locking features of the first and second portions, or a twisting / crimping unit configured to twist or crimp the first and second portions. Additionally, although the position retainer closure unit 150 is illustrated as a device configured to close the first portion of the position retainer 500 to the second portion, in some embodiments, the position retainer closure unit 150 may alternatively connect the position retainer 500 to one or more of the anchoring members 700. In addition, in some embodiments, the position retainer closure unit 150 may alternatively connect the first portion of one or more of the anchoring members 700 to the second portion of the same or different anchoring members 700, such that the position retainer 500 is captured and secured.

[0078] Although the position retainer 500 is illustrated as being connected to the anchor member 700, one or more position retainers may be inserted by other suitable configurations without the anchor member 700. Figure 14C The illustration shows the ring position holder 500 after it has been positioned by pin 112A or other position holder positioning device. Alternative embodiments of the position holder are illustrated in... Figure 14D and Figure 14E middle, Figure 14D and Figure 14E The diagram shows the 500A rivet position retainer being opened. Figure 14D ) and closed configuration rivet position retainer 500B ( Figure 14E In some embodiments, the retainer 120 may be omitted, and a transfer clip TC may be used to insert the position retainer, as those skilled in the art will understand. Figure 14F As shown, the transfer clip TC engages structural feature 610 with pin 112A (or other position-holding positioning device). Pin 112A... Figure 14G It passes through structural feature 610 and in Figure 14H and Figure 14I The lieutenant general's position holding member 500 is pulled back through structural feature 610.

[0079] like Figures 16A-16C As shown, the blade 146 on the position retainer applicator 140 is positioned to abut against the downstream portion of the position retainer 500 in the closed shape. Figure 16A ), and cut the position retainer 500 to disengage the position retainer 500 from the position retainer applicator 140 ( Figure 16B ).like Figure 16C As shown, the position retainer 500 is released from the position retainer hook 154, and as... Figure 17A The image shown shows that it has been released. Figures 17A-17B The anchoring member 700 is moved vertically to lower the position holding member 500 to the appropriate position on the textile 600.

[0080] Figures 18A-18B The retainer end 122 is shown returning to the starting position to engage the next target structural feature 610. In some embodiments, the retainer end 122 may be replaced by a position retainer 500 on the insertion pin 220A for the structural feature 610 (see, for example, described above). Figure 6D-6F In some embodiments, the retainer end 122 can place structural features on different knitting tools. Thus, another position retainer 500 can be positioned in the next structural feature 610 in the textile 600, and the above placement steps can be repeated for multiple structural features 610.

[0081] Figures 19A-19D The illustration shows an exemplary textile 600, which has a position retainer 500 and an anchoring member 700 for securing the position retainer 500. (See illustration for further details.) Figures 19A-19B As shown, the position retainer 500 can be loosely held between the anchoring members 700. Figure 19C-19D As shown, the position retainer 500 can be tensioned between the anchoring members 700. In this configuration, the position retainer 500 and / or the anchoring members 700 can be used to identify and manipulate structural features 610 in the textile 600.

[0082] While some embodiments described herein involve engaging the position retainer 500 with two anchor members 700 such that the position retainer 500 extends between the structural feature 610 and each of the two anchor members 700 to mark the position of the structural feature 610, it should be understood that other configurations may be used. For example, in some embodiments, one or both anchor members 700 are omitted, and the position retainer 500 is used to mark the position of one or more structural features 610.

[0083] As illustrated, the position retainer 500 is depicted as a yarn or thread; however, other configurations of the position retainer may be used. For example, the position retainer may be an elongated piece with anchoring or expansion sections to hold the position retainer within a structural feature of the textile. Furthermore, the position retainer 500 is depicted extending through the structural feature 610; however, the position retainer may alternatively extend around to surround the structural feature 610. The position retainer may be formed from: elastomeric materials, thermoplastic materials, multifilament yarns, braids, woven tapes, crocheted or warp-knitted tapes, weft-knitted tapes, cylindrical knitted ropes, flat plastic tapes, rigid element chains, monofilament yarns, twisted yarns, embossed sheets, flexible non-plastic sheets or tapes, or combinations thereof. Although the position retainer 500 is depicted extending through the structural feature 610 once or twice (see example...), Figure 24B-24C However, the position retainer 500 can pass through the structural feature 610 three, four, five, six or more times.

[0084] Various configurations of the anchoring member 700 can also be used. The anchoring member can be formed from: a strip, a woven structure, a braided structure, a flat extrusion with holes and attachment features, or a mesh. The holes in the anchoring member can be round, or flat-sided holes with 3, 4, 5, 6 or more sides, or some combination of round and flat-sided holes. The attachment features can include loops, hooks or rods, and the anchor can be made of plastic, metal or natural materials. In some embodiments, the width of the anchoring member is between about 1 mm and about 25 mm, and the thickness is between about 0.05 mm and about 1 mm. In some embodiments, the length and width of the holes and attachment features are between about 0.1 mm and about 2 mm.

[0085] The position retainer positioning unit 110, described above, includes a needle 112A. An actuator 114 moves the needle 112A, thereby shaping the position retainer 500 such that it extends through the structural feature 610 and is secured by the anchoring member 700. However, any suitable structure for positioning the position retainer can be used. For example, a gripper, pusher, or tubular feed device can be used. In some embodiments, the needle width is between about 0.05 mm and about 5 mm. The needle 112A is illustrated as having an open eye; however, in some embodiments, the eye of the needle 112A may instead be a closed latch, or include a sliding cap or composite closure member, as known in the art.

[0086] Although the position retainer applicator 140 is described as holding a spool of material to apply the position retainer 500, it should be understood that the position retainer can be applied from various structures. For example, in some embodiments, the anchoring member 700 may be connected to a plurality of position retainers 500, which can be pulled through structural features 610 in the textile 600. In some embodiments, the position retainer applicator 140 may include a pre-cut and pre-formed strand, a rivet, or other similar structure that can serve as a position retainer 500, such as a hopper or trolley.

[0087] Examples of materials that may be used for anchoring components or position holding components include natural materials (animal-based, plant-based, fungal-based natural materials, including wool, silk, cotton, down, leather, plant fibers, wood, or hemp), thermosetting polymers, thermoplastic polymers, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyurethane (thermoplastic polyurethane), fluoropolymers (ethylene-trifluorochloroethylene), viscose polymers, TPX (polymethylpentene), ECTFE, Vectran™ Dyneema™, and metals (including ferrous and non-ferrous metals).

[0088] Example structures suitable for one or more anchoring members or position retainers include monofilament fibers (extruded or drawn), multifilament fibers (yarns, twisted fibers, braided fibers, woven fibers, rivet-based, irregularly shaped links, strips or bands (extruded, woven, knitted (crocheted, warp-knitted, weft-knitted) or covered molding), and meshes (extruded or linked monofilaments or multifilaments, woven, knotted, interwoven "knotless", chemically bonded, welded). Additionally, one or more anchoring members or position retainers may be molded, stamped, embossed, or include inlay features, knotted features, covered molding features, or chemically bonded features.

[0089] The geometry and dimensions of one or more anchoring members or position retainers may include a circular cross-section, a tubular or rectangular cross-section, a hollow channel incorporated therein, orifices (circular, rectangular, brick-shaped (alternating rectangles), rhomboid, triangular, or any suitable shape). Additional features may include loops, hooks, rods, or protrusions, including generally spherical attachments. Such features may be from about 0.1 to 10 mm. The cross-sectional length, width, or diameter of one or more anchoring members or position retainers may be from 0.01 to 0.5 mm thick and from 0.1 to 25 mm wide.

[0090] Although the illustrated embodiment is a textile 600 in the shape of a cut piece (with terry loop structural features at the edge portion of the cut piece), it should be understood that the structural features can be located anywhere within the cut piece, and position holders can be positioned at such structural features during or after the formation of the textile.

[0091] Anchor arms 132 are illustrated as a pair of anchor arms; however, it should be understood that any number of anchor arms and / or anchoring members may be used. For example, more than two anchor arms may be used to position two or more series of position holding elements at several locations in the textile.

[0092] Reading device Now for reference Figures 20A-20B , Figures 21A-21B as well as Figures 22A-22C The illustration shows a reading device 1000 for textile 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, as discussed above, textile 600 may include a plurality of structural features 610. For example, in some embodiments, textile 600 may be a knitted fabric, and the plurality of structural features 610 may be loops in the knitted fabric. In other embodiments, textile 600 may be a woven fabric, and the plurality of structural features 610 may be intersections between warp and weft yarns in the woven fabric. In other embodiments, textile 600 may be a warp-knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, leather, a crocheted fabric, a cast, extruded, pressed, rolled, or 3D printed plastic fabric, or a mesh fabric. In some embodiments, the plurality of structural features 610 may be a predetermined area or a set of coordinates (e.g., X, Y, Z) on textile 600.

[0093] In some embodiments, the plurality of structural features 610 include one or more target features 610t (e.g., target loops, target intersections, or predetermined areas or coordinates in textile 600). As described herein, in some embodiments, each target feature 610t may have a position retainer 500 extending through it. In some embodiments, the target feature 610t may reside in the vicinity of the structural feature 610 having the position retainer 500 extending through it. As described herein, the position retainer 500 may be an elastomeric material, thermoplastic material, multifilament yarn, braid, woven tape, crocheted tape, warp-knitted tape, weft-knitted tape, cylindrical knitted cord, flat plastic tape, rigid element chain, monofilament yarn, twisted yarn, embossed sheet, or flexible non-plastic sheet or tape, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the position retainer 500 may engage with at least one anchoring member 700 such that the position retainer 500 extends between the target feature 610t or a nearby structural feature 610 and the anchoring member 700, thereby marking the corresponding target feature 610t of the textile 600. In some embodiments, more than one position retainer 5001, 5002 may extend through the target feature 610t or a nearby structural feature 610 and engage with the anchoring member 700 (see, for example...). Figure 24C ).

[0094] According to embodiments of the present invention, and further described in detail below, the reading device 1000 is configured to identify the corresponding position of the position holder 500 (and the corresponding target feature 610t) in the textile 600 to aid in further marking the position of the corresponding target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the position of the target feature 610t can be marked by means of the needle tip 1006 from the needle plate assembly 1002, so that the textile 600 can subsequently be sewn together with another textile 600, for example, sewing the sleeve of a sweater to the body of a sweater. When coupled to the textile 600, the anchoring member 700(one or more) and the position holder 500 provide a means for the marked textile 600 to be roughly handled and manipulated by a person or machine (i.e., marking the target feature 610t by means of the corresponding position holder 500), and can allow for easier sewing together with another textile 600 and / or attachment to another machine (e.g., a sewing machine).

[0095] like Figures 20A-20BAs shown, in some embodiments, the reading device 1000 includes a needle plate assembly 1002. In some embodiments, the needle plate assembly 1002 may be part of an existing sewing machine (not shown), such as a sewing machine for knitted garments. In some embodiments, the needle plate assembly 1002 has a base 1004 with one or more needle tips 1006 (e.g., needles) positioned around the periphery of the base 1004. The needle tips 1006 are positioned such that each needle tip 1006 is configured to extend outward from the base 1004. In other words, each needle tip 1006 is configured to move axially relative to the base 1004 such that each needle tip 1006 can be received through a corresponding target feature 610t on the textile 600. For example, in some embodiments, the needle plate assembly 1002 includes at least one needle tip actuator (not shown) configured to move each needle tip 1006 to extend through the corresponding target feature 610t (see, for example...). Figures 27A-27B ).

[0096] In some embodiments, the reading device 1000 includes a reading sub-component 1100. In some embodiments, the reading sub-component 1100 is configured to be coupled to the needle plate assembly 1002. Figures 21A-21B as well as Figures 22A-22B As shown, in some embodiments, the reading sub-component 1100 includes a feeding system 1150. The feeding system 1150 is configured to engage with anchor members 700 and advance textile 600 through the reading device 1000. In some embodiments, the feeding system 1150 may include a pulley system. In some embodiments, the feeding system 1150 includes at least one feed feeding member 1152, at least one collector feeding member 1154, and a plurality of alignment feeding members 1156. As shown, in some embodiments, for example, when textile 600 is engaged with two anchor members 700, the feeding system 1150 may include two feed feeding members 1152, two collector feeding members 1154, and at least two alignment feeding members 1156 (i.e., each of the feeding members 1152, 154, 1156 engaged with the respective anchor members 700).

[0097] like Figures 22A-22DAs shown, anchoring members 700 can be positioned to enter the reading subassembly 1100 via feed members 1152. Feed members 1152 are configured to engage with textile 600 and advance textile 600 into the reading device 1000 (i.e., each anchoring member 700 engages with a corresponding feed member 1152). Feed members 1152 help position textile 600 as it enters the reading device 1000. In some embodiments, feed members 1152 are configured to grip anchoring members 700 such that anchoring members 700 do not slip off feed members 1152 as textile 600 is advanced (fed) into the device 1000. For example, in some embodiments, feed members 1152 may be formed of a rubber material whose outer surface generates friction with anchoring members 700 to grip anchoring members 700. Figure 22C As shown, in some embodiments, each feed member 1152 may include a plurality of bristle or similar protrusions 1152p extending outward therefrom. In some embodiments, the protrusions 1152p are configured to allow the feed member 1152 to assist in advancing the anchoring member 700 (and the textile 600 engaged therewith) into the reading device 1000 without interfering with the position holding member 500 engaged with the anchoring member 700.

[0098] In some embodiments, to secure the textile 600 to the reading device 1000, excess length of the anchoring member 700 may be routed through the feed member 1152 and alignment member 1156 of the feeding system 1150, wherein the end of each anchoring member 700 is secured to a corresponding collector feed member 1154. In some embodiments, the collector feed member 1154 is configured to engage the corresponding anchoring member 700 and pull it through the reading device 1000. For example, in some embodiments, the collector feed member 1154 is configured to rotate and pull the corresponding anchoring member 700. As described in further detail below, when the anchoring member 700 (and the position retainer 500) is removed from the target feature 610t of the textile 600, the collector feed member 1154 collects the anchoring member 700 (i.e., after the position retainer 500 is disconnected, the anchoring member 700 wraps around the collector feed member 1154). As the anchoring member 700 wraps around the collector feeding member 1154, the textile 600 engaged with the anchoring member 700 is pulled through the reading device 1000 (and guided into and through the reading device 1000 by the feed feeding member 1152 and the alignment feeding member 1156, respectively).

[0099] As mentioned above, the alignment feed member 1156 is configured to help guide the anchor member 700 through the reading device 1000. In some embodiments, the feed system 1150 may include two, three, four, five, six or more alignment feed members 1156. In some embodiments, the alignment feed member 1156 may help provide tension on the anchor member 700 to allow the reading device 1000 to more easily identify the target feature 610t on the textile 600. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the alignment feed member 1156 may also help position the anchor member 700 (and the corresponding position retainer 500) within the reading subassembly 1100 so that the position of the target feature 610t can be marked (i.e., by means of the corresponding needle tip 1006 from the needle plate assembly 1002).

[0100] refer to Figure 23 , Figures 24A-24C as well as Figures 25A-25C In some embodiments, the sub-component 1100 of the reading device 1000 may further include a tensioning unit 1160. In some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160 is configured to generate tension on a target feature 610t extending through the textile 600 or on a selected position retainer 500 extending through an adjacent structural feature 610 into which the needle tip 1006 will be inserted. For example, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160 is configured to engage anchoring members 700 to apply force to each anchoring member 700, thereby generating tension on the target feature 610t extending through the textile 600 or on the selected position retainer 500 of the adjacent structural feature 610.

[0101] like Figures 24A-24B As shown, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160 includes two tensioning members 1162. In some embodiments, the end 1163 of each tensioning member 1162 is configured to be received by the selected position retainer 500 (or received between its adjacent portions) and engages the inner surface of the corresponding anchoring member 700. In some embodiments, the tensioning member 1162 is configured to apply an outward force to the corresponding anchoring member 700. In some embodiments, the tensioning member 1162 applies an outward force to the corresponding anchoring member 700 in opposite directions, thereby pulling opposite ends of the selected position retainer 500 in opposite directions to generate tension in the position retainer 500.

[0102] In some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160 may further include a pair of arm members 1164. Each tensioning member 1162 may be coupled to a corresponding arm member 1164. In some embodiments, each tensioning member 1162 is rotatably or pivotally coupled to a corresponding arm member 1164. Figures 24A-24BAs shown, in some embodiments, the tensioning member 1162 is configured to move relative to the arm member 1164 to engage the corresponding anchoring member 700 and apply an outward force to the anchoring member 700. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, more than one position retainer 5001, 5002 may extend through or near the target feature 610t or structural feature 610 and engage with one or more anchoring members 700(s). Figure 24C As shown, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160 can function in a similar manner when more than one position retainer 5001, 5002 extends through or near the target feature 610t or structural feature 610. In other words, the tensioning member 1162 can be received through (or between) multiple position retainers 5001, 5002 to engage the corresponding anchoring member 700 and apply an outward force to the anchoring member 700 to generate tension in the multiple position retainers 5001, 5002.

[0103] refer to Figures 25A-25C as well as Figures 26A-26B In some embodiments, the reading sub-assembly 1100 of the reading device 1000 may further include a separation unit 1170. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the separation unit 1170 is configured to engage a selected position holder 500 to provide additional space between portions of the position holder 500 and to position the position holder 500 in a fixed position. In some embodiments, each needle tip 1006 already has sufficient space to be received through the target feature 610t. However, in some embodiments, the separation unit 1170 is configured to provide additional space D for the corresponding needle tip 1006 of the needle plate assembly 1002 to be received through the target feature 610t of the textile 600 (see, for example...). Figure 26B The additional space provided by the position retainer 500 along the selected position can help avoid interference from the position retainer 500 during the insertion of the needle tip 1006 through the target feature 610t.

[0104] like Figures 25A-25C As shown, in some embodiments, the separating unit 1170 may include at least one position retainer fixing member 1172. The position retainer fixing member 1172 is configured to engage a selected position retainer 500 to create additional space D, allowing the needle tip 1006 (e.g., a needle) of the needle plate assembly 1002 to be inserted through the target feature 610t (see example...). Figures 27A-27B In some embodiments, the separation unit 1170 may include two position-holding fixing members 1172.

[0105] like Figure 25B and Figure 25CAs shown, in some embodiments, the position retainer fixing member 1172 includes two channels 1173 and an engagement section 1174 residing therebetween. In some embodiments, the engagement section 1174 has a beveled edge. For example, in some embodiments, the beveled engagement section 1174 has a triangular shape or other shape with a beveled edge. In some embodiments, the engagement section 1174 includes a recess 1175. In some embodiments, the recess 1175 is configured to receive a corresponding needle tip 1006 of the needle disc assembly 1002 passing through it, thereby allowing the corresponding needle tip 1006 to be inserted through the target feature 610t (see, for example...). Figures 27A-27B ).like Figure 25B-25C As shown, in some embodiments, each channel 1173 is configured to receive a corresponding portion of the selected position holder 500. As further shown, the triangular engagement segment 1174 is configured to separate the corresponding portion of the selected position holder 500 to create additional space D, such that the corresponding needle tip 1006 can be received by the target feature 610t without being disturbed by the position holder 500.

[0106] Channel 1173 and engagement section 1174 are configured such that the position retainer fixing member 1172 is allowed to slide along the selected position retainer 500 while maintaining close contact with the selected position retainer 500. For example, as Figure 25A as well as Figure 26A-25B As shown and as mentioned above, in some embodiments, the separating unit 1170 includes a pair of position retainer fixing members 1172. Each position retainer fixing member 1172 is positioned within the reading subassembly 1100 to engage a selected position retainer 500 on an opposing side of the target feature 610t. The position retainer fixing members 1172 are configured to move toward each other (i.e., toward the target feature 610t of the textile 600) (e.g., slide along the selected position retainer 500).

[0107] like Figures 26A-26B As shown, each position retainer fixing member 1172 has been moved along the selected position retainer 500 and positioned adjacent to the target feature 610t of the textile 600 (and on its opposite side). Figure 26BAs shown, the engagement section 1174 of the position retainer fixing member 1172 is configured to press the engaged portion of the selected position retainer 500 in an outward direction, causing the engaged portions of the selected position retainer 500 to separate by a distance D2. The separation distance D2 of the engaged portions is greater than the distance D1 of the adjacent portions of the selected position retainer 500 that do not engage with the position retainer fixing member 1172 (i.e., D2 > D1). This distance difference creates an additional space D near the target feature 610t, which helps prevent interference from the selected position retainer 500 when the needle tip 1006 is inserted through the target feature 610t (see, for example...). Figures 27A-27B ).

[0108] Figures 27A-27B The needle tip 1006 of the illustrated needle plate assembly 1002 is inserted through a target feature 610t corresponding to a selected position retainer 500. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the needle tip 1006 may be received through a recess 1175 in each position retainer retaining member 1172. The additional space D created by the position retainer retaining member 1172 helps prevent the selected position retainer 500 from interfering with the insertion of the needle tip 1006 through the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, an intermediate needle tip may be inserted into the recess 1175 of the position retainer retaining member 1172 and through the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the intermediate needle tip may then be removed, and the needle tip 1006 may be inserted into the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, each needle plate assembly 1002 may have one or more intermediate needle tips.

[0109] refer to Figures 28A-28C In some embodiments, the reading subassembly 1100 may also include a blade assembly 1180. In some embodiments, the blade assembly 1180 is configured to cut the selected position retainer 500 after the needle tip 1006 has been inserted through the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the blade assembly 1180 includes a pair of scissor-shaped blades 1182; however, other types of cutting tools may be incorporated into the blade assembly 1180. After the selected position retainer 500 has been cut, as discussed above, the anchoring member 700 is pulled and (via rotation of the collector feed member 1154) wrapped around the collector feed member 1154, and the textile 600 is advanced in the reading device 1000. As the collector feed member 1154 pulls the anchoring member 700, the position retainer 500 is removed (e.g., pulled) from the target feature 610t; thus leaving the needle tip 1006 extending through the target feature 610t.

[0110] Figure 29As the reading sub-component 1100 returns to the default starting position, multiple needle tips 1006 have been inserted through the target feature 610t of the corresponding textile 600; ready to engage another selected position holder 500 corresponding to the next target feature 610t of the textile 600.

[0111] Figures 30A-30C , Figures 31A-31C , Figures 32A-32B as well as Figure 33 The figure illustrates an alternative tensioning unit 1160' for a reading device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160' may be configured to engage directly with the selected position retainer 500, rather than applying force to the anchoring member 700 as described herein. In some embodiments, the tensioning unit 1160' is configured to pull the selected position retainer 500 to generate tension on the selected position retainer 500 extending through or near the target feature 610t or structural feature 610. In some embodiments, the alternative tensioning unit 1160' may be used when the anchoring member 700B includes a cutout portion (see, for example,...). Figure 5C ).

[0112] like Figures 30A-30C as well as Figures 31A-31C As shown, in some embodiments, the alternative tensioning unit 1160' may include an alternative tensioning member 1162' (e.g., a hook) configured to engage the end of the selected position retainer 500. Figures 32A-32B As shown, once engaged with the position retainer 500, segment 700Be of the anchoring member 700 can be removed. As shown in FIG32C, an alternative tensioning member 1162' is configured to pull the selected position retainer 500 from one end to generate tension, while a needle tip 1006 is inserted from the opposite end of the selected position retainer 500 through the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the target feature 610t can move along the selected position retainer 500 toward and above the tensioning device 1162'. In some embodiments, the needle tip 1006 may have a recess 1006a, which is configured to receive (or engage) the opposite end of the position retainer 500 (see, for example...). Figure 32B ).like Figure 34 As shown, after the needle tip 1006 has been inserted through the target feature 610t of the textile 600, the blade assembly 1180 can cut the position retainer 500, as previously described herein.

[0113] Additionally, in some embodiments, the reading device 1000 of the present invention may further include one or more sensor assemblies 1200, 1210. In some embodiments, at least one of the sensor assemblies 1200 may be configured to detect the position of the selected position holder 500 (see, for example...). Figure 22D , Figure 23 and Figure 24A For example, in some embodiments, at least one of the sensor assemblies 1200 may include a whisker sensor. After detecting the position of the selected position holder 500, the sensor assembly 1200 may also be configured to initiate actuation of the tensioning unit 1160, as described herein. In some embodiments, at least one of the sensor assemblies 1210 may be configured to read encoded information from one or more of the position holder 500, at least one of the anchoring members 700, and / or tags 1250 attached to the textile 600, one or more position holders, or at least one anchoring member (see, for example...). Figure 22A In some embodiments, at least one of the sensor components 1210 includes a camera, an optical sensor, an NFC sensor, an RFID sensor, a barcode reader, a QR code reader, and / or a magnetic sensor.

[0114] According to embodiments of the present invention, methods for designating one or more target features 610t in a textile 600 have been described herein. The textile 600 may include a plurality of structural features 610. Structural features 610 may have a series of position retainers 500 extending through a corresponding target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the target feature 610t may reside near a structural feature 610 having a position retainer 500 extending through it. In some embodiments, the position retainer 500 may be connected by at least one anchoring member 700. In some embodiments, the method for designating a target feature 610t in the textile 600 may include: identifying a selected position retainer 500 corresponding to the target feature 610t; and inserting a needle tip 1006 through the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the method further includes applying a force to generate tension on the selected position retainer 500 extending through or through the structural feature 610 adjacent to the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, each of these steps is repeated for each series of position retainers 500 having a target feature 610 extending through it.

[0115] In some embodiments, the method may further include disconnecting the position retainer 500 from at least one anchoring member 700, thereby allowing the selected position retainer 500 to be removed from the target feature 610t. In some embodiments, the disconnection step may further include cutting the selected position retainer 500 to allow the position retainer 500 to be removed (e.g., pulled) from the target feature 610t (or adjacent structural feature 610), thereby leaving a needle tip 1006 extending through the target feature 610t.

[0116] The inventive concept is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples in which embodiments are illustrated. Additional embodiments may take many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0117] Throughout the document, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements. In the drawings, the thickness of certain lines, layers, parts, elements, or features may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0118] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein refer to the presence of the described features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, phrases such as “between X and Y” and “between about X and Y” should be interpreted as including both X and Y. As used herein, phrases such as “between about X and Y” mean “between about X and about Y.” As used herein, phrases such as “from about X to Y” mean “from about X to about Y.” The term “about” should be understood to include variations of up to 20%.

[0119] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the context of this specification and related art, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein. For the sake of brevity and / or clarity, well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail.

[0120] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on another element," "attached" to another element, "connected" to another element, "joined" with another element, "in contact" with another element, etc., the element may be directly on, directly attached to, directly connected to, directly joined to, and / or directly in contact with the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element," "directly attached" to, "directly connected" to, "directly joined to," or "directly in contact" with another element, there are no intermediate elements present. Those skilled in the art should also understand that references to structures or features provided "adjacent" to another feature may have portions that overlap with or are below adjacent features.

[0121] For ease of description, spatially relative terms (such as "below," "under," "lower," "above," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s). It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations illustrated in the figures, spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is inverted, an element described as "below" or "below" other elements or features would be oriented "above" other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can include orientations of "above" and "below." The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms "upward," "downward," "vertical," "horizontal," etc., are used herein for illustrative purposes only unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0122] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, the “first” element discussed below may also be referred to as the “second” element without departing from the teachings of this disclosure. The order of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presented in the claims or drawings unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0123] The foregoing is illustrative of the inventive concept and is not intended to limit it. While some exemplary embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that many modifications are feasible in the exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the novel teachings of the inventive concept. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the inventive concept as defined in the claims. It should be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of the inventive concept and is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications to the disclosed and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A position-holding positioning assembly configured to mark the position of at least one structural feature in a textile, the position-holding positioning assembly being configured to cooperate with a textile processing machine and to engage at least one structural feature in the textile with a position-holding element, the assembly comprising: A position holding member positioning unit is configured to engage the at least one position holding member with the at least one structural feature, thereby marking the position of the at least one structural feature.

2. The position holding positioning assembly according to claim 1, further comprising: A retainer configured to engage at least one structural feature in the textile, such that the position retainer positioning unit cooperates with the retainer to position the at least one position retainer at the at least one structural feature.

3. The position holding positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising: At least one anchoring arm, the at least one anchoring arm being configured to position at least one anchoring member adjacent to the at least one structural feature, wherein the position holding member positioning unit is further configured to engage the at least one anchoring member and the at least one structural feature with the at least one position holding member.

4. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the holder is a knitting tool, knitting needle, slip needle, needle retainer, or sinker of the textile processing machine.

5. The position holding member positioning assembly according to claims 3-4, wherein the at least one anchoring arm includes a first anchoring arm and a second anchoring arm, and the at least one anchoring member includes a first anchoring member and a second anchoring member, the first anchoring member being positioned by the first anchoring arm on one side of the at least one structural feature, and the second anchoring member being positioned by the second anchoring arm on the opposite side of the at least one structural feature.

6. The position retainer positioning assembly according to claims 3-4, wherein the position retainer positioning unit includes a position retainer pin and a pin actuator configured to move the pin, and the at least one position retainer is an elongated position retainer, and the pin actuator is configured to move the position retainer pin to engage the at least one position retainer and position the at least one position retainer to pass through at least the first anchoring member at a first position along the first anchoring member.

7. The position retainer positioning assembly according to claims 3-6, wherein the position retainer positioning unit includes a position retainer pin and a pin actuator configured to move the pin, and the pin actuator is configured to move the position retainer pin to engage the at least one position retainer and position the at least one position retainer to pass through the first anchor member at a first position along the first anchor member, through the at least one structural feature, and through at least the second anchor member at a first position along the second anchor member.

8. The position retainer positioning assembly of claim 7, wherein the needle actuator is further configured to move the position retainer needle such that the position retainer is shaped such that the position retainer extends through the structural feature and is secured by the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member.

9. The position retainer positioning assembly of claim 7, further comprising a position retainer closure unit configured to connect a first portion of the position retainer to a second portion of the position retainer, thereby forming a closed-shape position retainer.

10. The position retainer positioning assembly of claim 9, wherein the position retainer closing unit comprises at least one of: a thermal device configured to weld a first portion of the position retainer to a second portion; An ultrasonic device configured to combine the first part with the second part; A knotting unit configured to form a knot with the first part and the second part; An adhesion unit configured to adhere the first portion and the second portion; A bonding unit configured to permanently connect the locking features of the first part and the second part; Alternatively, it can be configured to twist or press the twisting / pressing unit of the first and second portions.

11. The positioning member positioning assembly of claim 9, wherein the positioning member closing unit comprises at least one of: a thermal device configured to weld the positioning member to one or more of the anchoring members; an ultrasonic device configured to bond the positioning member to one or more of the anchoring members; a knotting unit configured to form a knot with the positioning member and one or more of the anchoring members; an adhesion unit configured to adhere the positioning member to one or more of the anchoring members; an engagement unit configured to permanently connect the locking features of the positioning member and any one or more of the anchoring members; or a splicing / pressing unit configured to splice or press a portion of the positioning member to one or more of the anchoring members.

12. The position retainer positioning assembly of claim 9, wherein the position retainer closure unit comprises at least one of: a thermal device configured to secure the position retainer by welding a first portion of one or more of the anchoring members to a second portion of one or more of the anchoring members; an ultrasonic device configured to bond the first portion to the second portion; and a knotting unit configured to form a knot with the first portion and the second portion. An adhesion unit configured to adhere the first part to the second part; It is configured to permanently connect the locking feature of the first part to the engagement unit of the second part; or it is configured to twist or press the twisting / pressing unit of the first part and the second part.

13. The positioning assembly for holding the position according to claims 4-12, wherein one or more of the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member comprises a first elongated piece and a second elongated piece.

14. The position holding member positioning assembly according to claims 4-13, wherein one or more of the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member include an opening.

15. The positioning assembly for holding the position according to claims 4-14, wherein one or more of the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member comprises a first trapezoidal structure and a second trapezoidal structure, each of the first trapezoidal structure and the second trapezoidal structure having an elongated parallel member and a crossbar extending therebetween.

16. The position holding member positioning assembly according to claims 4-15, wherein one or more of the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member are flexible.

17. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one position holding member comprises an elastomeric material, a thermoplastic material, multifilament yarn, braided fabric, woven tape, crocheted or warp-knitted tape, weft-knitted tape, cylindrical knitted rope, flat plastic tape, rigid element chain, monofilament yarn, twisted yarn, embossed sheet, flexible non-plastic sheet or tape, or a combination thereof.

18. The positioning assembly for holding the position according to claims 4-17, wherein the at least one anchoring member comprises an elastomeric material, a thermoplastic material, multifilament yarn, braided fabric, woven tape, crocheted or warp-knitted tape, weft-knitted tape, cylindrical knitted rope, flat plastic tape, rigid element chain, monofilament yarn, twisted yarn, embossed sheet, flexible non-plastic sheet or tape, or a combination thereof.

19. The position holding member positioning assembly according to claims 4-18, wherein each of the first anchoring arm and the second anchoring arm comprises at least a pair of elongated members configured to position the respective first and second anchoring members such that their principal surfaces face the orientation of the structural feature.

20. The position retainer positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a position retainer applicator configured to applicate the at least one position retainer when the position retainer positioning unit engages with the position retainer, thereby forming or shaping the at least one position retainer.

21. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one position holding member comprises a plurality of position holding members, the at least one structural feature comprises a plurality of structural features, and the position holding member positioning unit is configured to position each of the plurality of position holding members through a corresponding structural feature among the plurality of structural features, and to engage each of the plurality of position holding members with the at least one anchoring member such that each of the plurality of position holding members extends between the at least one anchoring member and the corresponding structural feature, thereby marking the position of the plurality of structural features.

22. The position holding member positioning assembly according to claims 2-21, wherein the retainer is configured to displace the structural feature away from the textile and to enlarge the structural feature.

23. The position holding member positioning assembly according to claims 2-22, wherein the retainer is configured to place the structural feature on the needle after the position holding member is placed.

24. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the position holding member positioning assembly is mounted on the textile processing machine.

25. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the position holding member positioning assembly is configured to be removably positioned adjacent to the textile processing machine.

26. The position holding positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the textile processing machine includes a flat weft knitting machine, a flat warp knitting machine, a crochet machine, a circular weft knitting machine, a circular warp knitting machine, a straight bar knitting machine, or a cotton spinning frame.

27. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the structural features of the textile include topological features of the textile, the topological features being configured to hold the position holding member on or in the topological features.

28. The positioning component of claim 27, wherein the topological features include loops, tangles, or intersections between yarns in the textile.

29. The position holding member positioning assembly of claim 28, wherein the loops comprise needle loops or sinker loops.

30. The position holding member positioning assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the textile comprises a textile piece.

31. A textile comprising a plurality of structural features marked for positioning on a second machine, the textile comprising: At least one anchoring member; as well as Multiple position retainers are configured to engage corresponding structural features among the multiple structural features and are connected to the anchoring member to mark the multiple structural features.

32. The textile according to claim 31, wherein the second machine is a sewing machine.

33. The textile of claim 32, wherein the at least one anchoring member comprises a plurality of anchoring members, the plurality of anchoring members comprising at least a first anchoring member and a second anchoring member, and the plurality of position holding members are configured to pass through a corresponding structural feature of the plurality of structural features and extend to and through each of the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member.

34. The textiles according to claims 31-33, wherein the textiles include flat weft knitted textiles, flat warp knitted textiles, crocheted textiles, circular weft knitted textiles, or circular warp knitted textiles.

35. The textile according to claims 31-34, wherein each of the plurality of structural features of the textile includes a topological feature of the textile, the topological feature being configured to hold a position retainer on or in the topological feature.

36. The textile according to claims 31-35, wherein the topological feature includes loops or tangles.

37. The textile according to claims 31-36, wherein the loop includes needle loops or sinker loops.

38. The textile according to claims 31-37, wherein the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member comprise a first elongated piece and a second elongated piece.

39. The textile according to claims 31-38, wherein the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member include an orifice.

40. The textile according to claims 31-39, wherein the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member comprise a first trapezoidal structure and a second trapezoidal structure, each of the first trapezoidal structure and the second trapezoidal structure having an elongated parallel member and a crossbar extending therebetween.

41. The textile according to claims 31-40, wherein the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member are flexible.

42. The textile according to claims 31-41, wherein the plurality of position retaining elements comprises an elastomeric material, a thermoplastic material, multifilament yarn, braid, woven tape, crocheted or warp-knitted tape, weft-knitted tape, cylindrical knitted rope, flat plastic tape, rigid element chain, monofilament yarn, twisted yarn, embossed sheet, flexible non-plastic sheet or tape, or a combination thereof.

43. A method for preserving / marking multiple structural features in a textile fabric piece, the method comprising: a) Joining one of a plurality of structural features in the textile cut piece; as well as b) Position one of the multiple position holders to pass through the structural feature.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising: c) Position at least one anchoring member adjacent to the structural feature; as well as d) Engage the position retainer with the at least one anchoring member such that the position retainer extends between the structural feature and the anchoring member, thereby marking the position of the structural feature.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the at least one anchoring member comprises a first anchoring member and a second anchoring member, and step c) comprises positioning the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member on opposite sides of the structural feature.

46. ​​The method of claims 43-45, wherein the position retainer comprises an elongated position retainer, and step b) of positioning the position retainer comprises engaging the position retainer with a needle and passing the position retainer through the structural feature; or The position retainer includes a rivet, and step b) of positioning the position retainer includes inserting the rivet through the structural feature; or The position retainer includes a ring shape, and step b) of positioning the position retainer includes passing the ring shape around the structural feature.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein step d) of engaging the position retainer with the at least one anchoring member comprises using the needle to pass the position retainer through the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member.

48. The method of claim 44, wherein step a) of engaging the structural feature comprises engaging the structural feature with a retainer to move the structural feature in a direction away from the textile piece and to enlarge the structural feature.

49. The method of claim 44, further comprising repeating steps a)-d) on the plurality of structural features such that the plurality of position retainers extend between corresponding structural features of the plurality of structural features at corresponding positions along the first anchoring member and the second anchoring member, thereby marking the positions of the plurality of structural features by means of the plurality of position retainers.

50. The method of claims 44-49, wherein the structural feature includes a loop, and step a) includes removing the loop from a knitting tool on a needle bed and temporarily holding it on the retainer to create a gap between the cut piece and the needle bed, such that the anchoring arm can be advanced to the other side of the knitting tool to topologically hold the anchor under the loop.

51. The method according to claims 44-49, wherein the structural feature includes a loop, and step a) includes transferring the loop to a knitting tool on a needle bed generally on the other side of the cut piece, with the aim of creating a gap between the cut piece and the needle bed, such that the anchoring arm can be moved to the other side of the knitting tool to topologically hold the anchor under the loop.

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