A subassembly for a reading apparatus and related method for designating target features in a textile

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a subassembly for a reading apparatus for a textile. The textile includes a plurality of structural features including one or more target features, one or more of the structural features having a placeholder extending therethrough that engages one or more anchor members such that the placeholder extends through a target feature, or a structural feature proximate to the target feature, and the anchor members, to mark the target feature. The subassembly includes a guide member configured to spread a loop of the placeholder. The subassembly further includes a tensioning unit configured to create tension on the placeholder extending through the target feature or a structural feature proximate to the target feature. The guide member is configured to precisely immobilize the target feature for subsequent processing.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOA SUBASSEMBLY FOR A READING APPARATUS AND RELATED METHOD FOR DESIGNATING TARGET FEATURES IN A TEXTILERelated Application(s)

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U. S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 743,907, filed January 10, 2025, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in full.Field

[0002] The present invention relates to apparatus for engaging and manipulating designated target features via place-holding fiducials, and methods for designating such target features in textiles, soft objects, or webs.Background

[0003] Fabric manipulation has been resistant to automation because of the inherent difficulties in recognizing, engaging, and manipulating soft bodies. Almost all textile assembly activities are carried out with a high requirement of manual labor. Linking is a sewing technique that is specialized for the construction of garments from knitted components. A linking machine is a kind of chainstitch sewing machine, augmented with a dial (sometimes crown) or linear arrangement of points (c.., needles). The sewing mechanism is mechanically geared to the angular spacing of the points, so that at least one stitch is formed on each point. The linking machine operator is tasked with impaling the workpieces to be joined, one on top of another. Then the sewing head is activated, and the stitch is automatically formed, taking advantage of the point that is holding the place of each stitch to come. As in other sewing processes, the stitch formation is highly automated, fast, accurate, and generally technologically mature.

[0004] Straight bar needle transfers are discussed in German Patent No 685,505. U. S. Patent No. 6,089,049 discusses directly loading a welt knitted at a first knitting station onto a transfer bar, and to an unloading station such that a knitted welt loaded on the transfer bar can be directly transferred to a knitting head at a second knitting station. Various techniques for linking areAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOdiscussed in U. S. Patent Nos. 3,340,834; 4,846,085; 5,619,940; and 5,730,075; Japanese Patent Publication Nos. JPH03258287A, JPS52125052A, JPH063160692A, JPH05305191A, JPH05305192A, and JPH05305195A, and Chinese Patent / Publication Nos. CN110685073A, CN113026220B, CN113026219A, CN109457398, CN113026219A, and CN201176508Y.

[0005] However, there are still problems in automating many sewing or linking processes for a variety of textile fabrics due to the problem of introducing and accurately locating the workpieces, which are soft, to the machine.Summary

[0006] According to some embodiments, the present inventive concept is directed to a subassembly for a reading apparatus for a textile, soft object, or web.

[0007] According to further embodiments, the present inventive concept is directed to a method of designating target features in a textile, soft object, or web.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain principles of the invention.

[0009] FIG. l is a perspective view of a prior art knitting machine.

[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a placeholder positioning unit pulling the placeholder back through a target feature and anchor members according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary textile with a plurality of placeholders according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a reading apparatus for a textile according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0013] FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate a subassembly of an alternative reading apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention with a placeholder moved into position.

[0014] FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate a spreader unit and a first clamp member of the reading apparatus subassembly inserted into the placeholder loop according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0015] FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate movement of the spreader unit and the first clamp member within the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0016] FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a second clamp member of the reading apparatus subassembly inserted into the placeholder loop according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0017] FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate movement of the spreader unit and the second clamp member within the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate a pair of guide members of the reading apparatus subassembly inserted into the placeholder loop.

[0019] FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate engagement of the guide members with the placeholder loop within the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate movement of the guide members with the reading apparatus subassembly to engage a target feature in the textile according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] FIGS. 13A-13D illustrate a tension member of the reading apparatus subassembly engaged with the placeholder loop and removal of the spreader unit according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an example of an immobilizing tool (i.e., a point of a needle assembly) inserted into the target feature in the textile according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate the guide members of the reading apparatus subassembly retracted and the placeholder removed from the target feature according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 16 is atop perspective view of a reading apparatus subassembly installed on a needle system according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 17A is a front perspective view of the reading apparatus subassembly shown in FIG. 16.

[0026] FIG. 17B is a rear perspective view of the reading apparatus subassembly shown in FIG. 17A.

[0027] FIG. 18A is a top schematic view illustrating an exemplary operation of the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 18B is a side schematic view further illustrating the exemplary operation of the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0029] FIG. 19A is a side view illustrating a guide member of the reading apparatus subassembly having an example immobilizing tool (i.e., a needle point) inserted therethrough according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 19B is a side view illustrating deflection of the tines of the guide member shown in FIG. 19A around the needle point during removal of the guide member according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] FIGS. 20A-20C are side views of a tension and cutting member of the reading apparatus subassembly and the exemplary operation thereof according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 21A is a top perspective view of a platen member of a feed assembly of the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 21B is a top view of the platen member shown in FIG. 21 A.

[0034] FIG. 21C is a top perspective view of a platen member assembly including an upper platen member and a lower platen member according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 2 ID is a cross-sectional side view of the platen member assembly shown in FIG. 21C according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a drive assembly of the feed assembly coupled to the platen member assembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional front view of the drive assembly and platen member assembly shown in FIG. 22A.

[0038] FIG. 23A is a side perspective view of a clamp assembly of the reading apparatus subassembly in a raised (unclamped) position according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 23B is a side perspective view of the clamp assembly of the reading apparatus subassembly in a lower (clamped) position according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 24A is a front view of a recoil assembly of the reading apparatus subassembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 24B is a side perspective view of the recoil assembly shown in FIG. 24A.

[0042] FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional side view of the platen assembly illustrating the recoil assembly in a disengaged position according to embodiments of the present invention.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0043] FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional side view of the platen assembly illustrating the recoil assembly in an engaged position according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of the feed assembly illustrating the clamp assembly and recoil assembly engaged with the platen assembly according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 27 is a photograph illustrating the protrusion of the platen member creating space within the loop of a placeholder according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 28 is a photograph illustrating a brush feature on the platen member according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] FIGS. 29A-29F illustrate another example of an immobilizing tool (i.e., a clamp) engaging a target feature in a textile according to embodiments of the present invention.Detailed Description

[0048] In some embodiments, a placeholder positioning assembly may be configured to mark a position of a structural feature of a textile with a placeholder. As described herein, the placeholder may be used to place the textile, for example, on a linking machine or to otherwise manipulate the textile for subsequent production, processing, imaging and / or measurement.

[0049] As used herein, a "structural feature" of a textile is any textile feature that is capable of having a placeholder held on the structural feature or in the structural feature. For example, a "structural feature" may include a topological feature of a textile that is configured to hold a placeholder on, in, or near the topological feature, such as a loop or tangle or intersecting points between yarns in a woven fabric. A structural feature in a nonwoven fabric, web, leather, or soft substrate may be location in such an object, such as a coordinate (x-y) location in the object.

[0050] As used herein, a "loop" of a textile includes needle loops or sinker loops.

[0051] As used herein, a "textile" includes any suitable textile that is configured to engage a placeholder, including a flat weft knit textile, a flat warp knit textile, a crochet textile, a circular weft knit textile, a circular warp knit textile, a straight bar weft knit textile, or a cotton frame textile. A "textile" may be configured as panel, a line, or may have a three dimensional shape. For example, the textile may be a knitted fabric and the plurality of structural features may be loops in the knitted fabric or the textile may be a woven fabric and the plurality of structural features may be intersecting points between warp and weft yarns in the woven fabric. In other examples, theAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOtextile may be a warp-knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, leather, a crocheted fabric, a cast, extruded, pressed, rolled, or 3d-printed plastic fabric, or lace.

[0052] As used herein, a "soft object" may be a textile or a web, including a web comprising foil, metal, paper, plastic fdm or wire.

[0053] As used herein, "crochet" refers to any manipulation of threads using a series of loops to form knots and / or stitches within the structures described herein, including a flat weft knit, a flat warp knit, a crochet, a circular weft knit, a circular warp knit, a straight bar weft knit, or a cotton frame textile.

[0054] As used herein, a "placeholder" is a structure that may be positioned in or on a structural feature of a textile, such as a loop, to designate the structural feature or features(s) within the textile for subsequent production, processing, imaging and / or measurement. A placeholder may be passed through a structural feature, positioned around a structural feature, or otherwise engage with a structural feature of a textile. In some embodiments, a placeholder is held in position with an anchor member. A placeholder may be positioned at one or more structural features.

[0055] As used herein, an "anchor member" is a structure that is configured to connect to a placeholder and is typically elongated. In some embodiments, one or more anchor members may be connected to a plurality of placeholders. In this configuration, the anchor member(s) may connect a sequence of placeholders, for example, for subsequent placement on a linking machine or link transfer machine.

[0056] As used herein, a "thread" may be an elongated member and may include or be formed of natural materials (animal-based, plant-based, fungi-based, including wool, silk, cotton, down, leather, plant fibers, wood, or hemp), thermoset polymers, thermoplastic polymers, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyurethane (thermoplastic polyurethane), fluoropolymers (ehtylene-chlortrifluorethylene), viscose polymers, glass, mineral fiber, TPX (polymethylpentene), ECTFE, Vectran(TM) Dyneema(TM), metals, including ferrous and nonferrous metals. Threads may be used to form various structures disclosed herein.

[0057] As used herein, an "immobilizing tool" may be a needle, a clamp, a magnet, an electrostatic gripper, a hook / loop gripper, or other device or apparatus that is configured to hold, secure, or otherwise prevent movement of an engaged target feature of a textile at a precise location for subsequent production, processing, imaging, or measurement.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0058] Example structures that may be suitable for threads, and which may be incorporated into placeholders or anchor members include monofilament fibers (extruded or drawn), multifilament fibers (yam, twisted fibers, braided fibers, woven fibers, rivet-based, chain links of regular or irregular pieces, ribbon or tape (extruded, woven, knitted (crochet-knitted, warp-knitted, weft-knitted) or overmolded), mesh (extruded or joined monofilaments or multifilaments, woven, knotted, inter-braided "knotless," chemically adhered, hook-and-loop joined, welded, or spliced). In addition, a thread may be molded stamped, embossed, or include inlaid features, knotted in features, overmolded features, or features that are chemically adhered.

[0059] PCT Publication Nos. W02025 / 015040 and W02025 / 015028 disclose a placeholder positioning assembly and reading apparatus for positioning a placeholder to mark one or more structural features in a textile. The placeholder positioning assembly includes one or more anchor members, which are configured to connect to and hold a placeholder, and the placeholder is positioned to mark a structural feature in the textile. In particular, the placeholder positioning assembly generally included a placeholder dispenser and an anchor feeder. A holder or hook engages the structural feature in a textile, and a placeholder is dispensed from the placeholder dispenser and fed through the structural feature and / or the anchor member using a needle. The reading apparatus is configured to identify respective locations of the placeholders and corresponding structural features in the textile, and to present the structural features of the textile to a subsequent device, such as needles on a linking machine.

[0060] Placeholder Positioning Assembly

[0061] FIG. 1 is a prior art knitting machine 10 including a base 20 and needles 30 for forming or manufacturing a textile. During the knitting process, a structural feature may be identified and a placeholder may be inserted into the structural feature. The placeholder may then be connected to one or more anchor members.

[0062] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a structural feature 610 of a textile on the knitting machine of FIG. 1 is held above the needle bed (not shown) and positioned between two anchor members 700 held by anchor dispensers 132. A needle 112 pulls a placeholder 500 through the structural feature 610 and through both anchor members 700. The structural feature 610 may then be released, and additional structural features may be similarly marked using placeholders that are secured by the anchor members 700. The process of positioning a placeholder in a textile may beAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOreferred to herein as a saving process such that positions within the textile are marked or saved by the placeholder.

[0063] After a plurality of placeholders 500 are positioned through structural features 610 in a textile, the textile may be removed from the knitting machine. An exemplary textile 600 with placeholders 500 and anchor members 700 securing the placeholders 500 is shown in FIG. 3. In this configuration, the placeholders 500 and / or anchor members 700 may be used to identify and manipulate structural features 610 in the textile 600.

[0064] For example, a reading apparatus 1000 for a textile 600 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated in FIG 4. The reading apparatus 1000 is configured to identify respective locations of the placeholders 500 (and corresponding structural features 610) in the textile 600 to assist in further marking the location of the corresponding structural features 610. When coupled with the textile 600, the anchor member(s) 700 and placeholders 500 may facilitate the handling and manipulation of the textile 600 by people or machines (i.e., by manipulating or identifying the structural features 610 marked with respective placeholders 500) and may allow for easier linking with another textile 600 and / or attachment to another machine (e.g., a linking machine).

[0065] As shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus 1000 includes a needle assembly 1002, and the needle assembly 1002 may be part of an existing linking machine (not shown), such as a linking machine for a knitted garment. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 has a base 1004 having one or more points 1006 (c.g., needles) positioned around a periphery of the base 1004. As illustrated, the anchor member(s) 700 are fed through the reading apparatus 1000, and the placeholders 500 are used to align the corresponding structural features 610 with elements of the reading apparatus 1000, such as needles or points 1006.

[0066] Various systems and methods for placing the placeholders) at identified structural features in a textile and / or connecting the placeholders to anchor members are referred to as "saving" systems, apparatuses, and methods and are described in PCT Publication Nos. W02025 / 015040 and W02025 / 015028. Additional systems and methods for using the placeholder(s) and anchor members to position and manipulate the structural features of the textile with respect to another needle assembly, such as a linking machine, are also described in PCT Publication Nos. W02025 / 015040 and W02025 / 015028.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0067] A Reading Apparatus Subassembly

[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 5A-15D, a reading apparatus subassembly 2100 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The assembly 2100 may form part of the reading apparatus 1000 for a textile 600 described herein or may form part of an alternative reading apparatus 2000 for a textile 600.

[0069] In some embodiments, as described above, the textile 600 may comprise a plurality of structural features 610. In some embodiments, the plurality of structural features 610 may be a predetermined area or set of coordinates (e.g., X, Y, Z) on the textile 600. In some embodiments, the plurality of structural features 610 include one or more target features 610t (e.g., target loops, target intersecting points, or predetermined area or coordinates in the textile 600). As described herein, in some embodiments, each target feature 6 lOt may have a placeholder 500 extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the target features 610t may reside proximate to a structural feature 610 having a placeholder 500 extending therethrough.

[0070] As described herein, the placeholder 500 may be an elastomeric material, a thermoplastic material, a thermoset material, a plastic material, a multifdament yam, a braid, a woven tape, a crochet-knitted tape, a warp-knitted tape, a weft-knitted tape, a tubular knitted cord, a flat plastic tape, a chain of rigid elements, a monofilament yarn, a twisted yam, an embossed sheet, or a flexural non-plastic sheet or tape, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the placeholders 500 may be engaged with at least one anchor member 700 such that the placeholder 500 extends between the target feature 610t or proximate structural feature and the anchor member 700, thereby marking a respective target feature 610t of the textile 600. In some embodiments, more than one placeholder 500i, 5002 may extend through a target feature 61 Ot or proximate structural feature and engage with the anchor member(s) 700.

[0071] According to embodiments of the present invention, and as described in further detail below, similar to the reading apparatus subassembly 1100, the reading apparatus assembly 2100 is configured to identify respective locations of the placeholders 500 (and corresponding target features 61 Ot) in the textile 600 to assist in further marking the location of the corresponding target features 61 Ot. For example, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 of the present invention may further comprise one or more sensor assemblies 2150. In some embodiments, the one or more sensor assemblies 2150 may comprise a camera, a photocell, a photodiode, a 3D scanner, a time-of-flight sensor, a laser sensor, a photo interrupter, aAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOmicroswitch, a whisker sensor, a capacitive sensor, a microswitch, a load cell, a strain gauge, an ultrasonic sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, an accelerometer, an interferometer, and / or an inductive sensor to help identify a placeholder 500 corresponding to a target feature 61 Ot.

[0072] In some embodiments, the location of the target features 610t may be marked (or immobilized) with an immobilizing tool such as a point 1006 from a needle assembly 1002 such that the textile 600 may be subsequently linked with another textile 600, for example, linking the sleeve of a sweater with the body of the sweater. In some embodiments, the location of the target features 61 Ot may be marked or otherwise immobilized in another manner such as, for example, by clamping, pinching, suction, or friction. When coupled with the textile 600, the anchor member(s) 700 and placeholders 500 provide a means of gross handling and manipulation by people or machines of the marked textile 600 (z.t?., the target features 61 Ot marked with respective placeholders 500) and may allow for easier linking with another textile 600 and / or attachment to another machine (e.g., a linking machine).

[0073] As described herein, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus 1000, 2000 may include a needle assembly 1002. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 may be a dial assembly. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 may be part of an existing linking machine (not shown), such as a linking machine for a knitted garment. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 has a base 1004 having one or more points 1006 (e.g., needles) positioned around a periphery of the base 1004. The points 1006 are positioned such that each point 1006 is configured to extend outwardly from the base 1004. In other words, each point 1006 is configured to be moved orthogonally relative to the base 1004 such that each point 1006 may be received through a respective target feature 61 Ot on the textile 600. For example, in some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 comprises at least one point actuator (not shown) configured to move one or more point 1006 to extend through the respective target feature 61 Ot.

[0074] FIGS. 5A-15D illustrate components of the subassembly 2100 of the reading apparatus 2000 in greater detail. It is noted, while not shown in FIGS. 5A-15D, similar to the reading apparatus subassembly 1100 described herein, the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 includes a feed system configured to engage with the anchor members 700 and advance the textile 600 through the reading apparatus 1000, 2000.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 5A-15D, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 may comprise opposing backstop members 201 On, 201 Of, a spreader unit 2020,Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOfirst and second clamp members 2030, 2040, a pair of guide members 2050 (first guide member 2050a and second guide member 2050b), and a tensioning unit 2060. Each of these components will be described in further detail below. It is noted that in FIGS. 5A-15D, eachFigure " A" shows a top view of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100, each Figure " B" shows a needleaxis end (near side) view of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100, each Figure " C" shows a side view of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100, and each Figure " D" shows an opposing needle-axis end (far side) view of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100. It is further noted that one or more of the operations (or segments of the operations) of the subassembly 2100 described below may be performed concurrently in a synchronized fashion to ensure effective orientation of the target feature 610t in the textile 600 for insertion of the respective point 1006 (or other immobilizing tool).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D a placeholder 500 moved into position and extending through a target feature 610t in the textile 600 (e.g., a loop in the fabric) is illustrated. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, the placeholder 500 is engaged with and extends between two anchor members 700. In some embodiments, each anchor member 700 may be engaged with a respective backstop member 201 On, 201 Of.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 6A-6D, the spreader unit 2020 and first clamp member 2030 of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 are shown being moved into position in a selected placeholder 500. As shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, in some embodiments, the spreader unit 2020 may move in a first direction DI into the loop of the placeholder 500. In FIGS. 6A-6D, the spreader unit 2020 is illustrated being moved in a downward vertical direction; however, in other embodiments, the spreader unit 2020 may be configured to move in an upward direction, horizontal direction, or compound path. In some embodiments, the spreader unit 2020 may be inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500 at a location proximate to the near side backstop member 201 On (i.e., near an end of the loop of the placeholder 500). The spreader unit 2020 is sized and configured to engage the selected placeholder 500 to provide additional space between corresponding portions of the placeholder 500 and position the placeholder 500 in a fixed location.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C, in some embodiments, the spreader unit 2020 may have a tapered or pointed edge 2024 which helps guide the spreader unit 2020 through the loop of the placeholder 500. As mentioned above, the spreader unit 2020 is configured to create space between corresponding portions of the placeholder 500 which will help allow alignment andAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOengagement of the first guide member 2050a with the placeholder 500 (see, e.g., FIGS. 10A-10D, FIGS. 11A-11D, FIGS. 12A-12D, and FIGS. 13A-13D). As described in further detail below, the guide members 2050 will provide additional space for a respective point 1006 of the needle assembly 1002 (or other immobilizing tool, see FIGS. 29A-29F) to be received through the target feature 61 Ot of the textile 600. Providing additional space along the selected placeholder 500 may help avoid interference by the placeholder 500 during insertion of the point 1006 through the target feature 610t.

[0079] As further shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, as the spreader unit 2020 moves in the first direction DI, a first clamp member 2030 is configured to move in a second opposing direction D2 into the loop of the placeholder 500. In FIGS. 6A-6D, the first clamp member 2030 is illustrated being moved in an upward vertical direction; however, in other embodiments, the first clamp member 2030 may be configured to move in a downward direction or horizontal direction. In some embodiments, the first clamp member 2030 is configured to be inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500 at a location proximate to the far side backstop member 2010f ( / .<., near an opposing end of the loop of the placeholder 500). It is noted that the spreader unit 2020 and the first clamp member 2030 are inserted into the loop of the selected placeholder 500 on opposing sides of the target feature 6 lOt (i.e., the target feature 610t is positioned on the placeholder 500 between the spreader unit 2020 and the first clamp member 2030).

[0080] Similar to the spreader unit 2020, in some embodiments, the first clamp member 2030 may have a tapered or pointed edge 2034 which helps guide the first clamp member 2030 through the loop of the placeholder 500. Also, similar to the spreader unit 2020, the first clamp member 2030 is configured to create space between corresponding portions of the placeholder 500 which will help allow alignment and engagement of the second guide member 2050b with the placeholder 500 (see, e.g., FIGS. 10A-10D, FIGS. 11A-11D, FIGS. 12A-12D, and FIGS. 13A-13D). As shown in FIG. 6C, in some embodiments, the first clamp member 2030 may further comprise a protrusion, hook, or like feature 2032. As described further below, in some embodiments, the protrusion 2032 is configured to engage the far side backstop member 201 Of.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 7A-7D, after the spreader unit 2020 and the first clamp member 2030 have been inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500, the spreader unit 2020 is configured to move in a first direction Fl (i.e., towards the near side backstop member 201 On) and the first clamp member 2030 is configured to move in a second opposing horizontal direction F2 (i.e., toward theAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOfar side backstop member 201 Of). As shown in FIG. 7C, the first clamp member 2030 continues to move horizontally until the first clamp member 2030 contacts or engages the far side backstop member 201 Of. However, in some embodiments, the first clamp member 2030 may be configured to move in a vertical direction. For example, in some embodiments, the protrusion 2032 of the first clamp member 2030 may engage the far side backstop member 201 Of. As further shown in FIGS. 7A-7D, in some embodiments, when the first clamp member 2030 engaged the far side backstop member 201 Of, a portion of the placeholder 500 may be held between the first clamp member 2030 and the backstop member 2010f.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 8A-8D, the second clamp member 2040 of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 is shown being moved into position in the selected placeholder 500. In some embodiments, the second clamp member 2040 is configured to move in the first direction DI into the loop of the placeholder 500. Similar to the spreader unit 2020, in FIGS. 6A-6D, the second clamp member 2040 is illustrated being moved in a downward vertical direction; however, in other embodiments, the second clamp member 2040 may be configured to move in an upward direction or horizontal direction. In some embodiments, the second clamp member 2040 is configured to be inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500 within the space of the placeholder 500 created by the spreader unit 2020 (e.g., at a location proximate to the near side backstop member 201 On). The second clamp member 2040 is inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500 on an opposing side of the target feature 610t than the first clamp member 2030 (z.c., the target feature 610t is positioned on the placeholder 500 between the first and second clamp members 2030, 2040). As shown in FIG. 8C, in some embodiments, the second clamp member 2030 may also comprise a protrusion, hook, or like feature 2042. As described further below, in some embodiments, the protrusion 2042 is configured to engage the near side backstop member 201 On.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9D, after the second clamp member 2040 has been inserted into the loop of the selected placeholder 500, the spreader unit 2020 and the second clamp member 2040 are configured to move in the first direction Fl to contact or engage the near side backstop member 201 On. For example, in some embodiments, as the second clamp member 2040 contacts the near side backstop member 201 On, the clamp member 2040 may also be configured to move in the second direction D2 (e.g., upwardly) until the protrusion or hook 2042 of the second clamp member 2040 engages the near side backstop member 201 On. As further shown in FIGS. 9A-9D, similar to the first clamp member 2030 and the far side backstop member 2010f, inAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOsome embodiments, when the second clamp member 2040 is engaged with the near side backstop member 2010n, a portion of the placeholder 500 may be held between the second clamp member 2040 and the backstop member 201 On.

[0084] Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10D, after the first clamp member 2030 is engaged (in contact) with the far side backstop member 201 Of and the second clamp member 2040 is engaged (in contact) with the near side backstop member 201 On, the pair of guide members 2050 may be inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500. In some embodiments, each guide member 2050 is configured to move in the first direction DI into the loop of the placeholder 500. In FIGS. 10A-10D, the guide members 2050 are illustrated being moved in a downward direction; however, in other embodiments, the guide members 2050 may be configured to move in a substantially upward direction or a substantially horizontal direction. The guide members 2050 configured to be inserted into the loop of the placeholder 500 on opposing sides of the target feature 61 Ot (z.e., the target feature 61 Ot is positioned on the placeholder 500 between the guide members 2050). For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10D, the first guide member 2050a is configured to be inserted within the space of the placeholder 500 created by the spreader unit 2020 (e.g., at a location proximate to the near side backstop member 2010n) and the second guide member 2050b is configured to be inserted within the space of the placeholder 500 created by the first clamp member 2030 (e.g., at a location proximate to the far side backstop member 2010f). In other words, in some embodiments, one guide member 2050a is inserted adjacent to the spreader unit 2020 and the other guide member 2050b is inserted adjacent to the first clamp member 2030.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 10B and FIG. 10D, in some embodiments, each guide member 2050 may comprise an outer pair of fork members 2052 and an inner pair of fork members 2054. The inner pair of fork members 2054 reside between the outer pair of fork members 2052. The inner fork members 2054 are spaced apart from each other to form an inner slotted recess 2055. As described in further detail below, the inner slotted recess 2055 of each guide member 2050 is configured to receive a point 1006 (e.g., a needle or other immobilizing tool) therethrough (see, e.g., FIGS. 14A-14D). As further shown in FIG. 10D, each of the outer fork members 2052 is spaced apart from an adjacent inner fork member 2054 to form respective outer slotted recesses 2053. As described in further detail below, the outer slotted recesses 2053 of each guide member 2050 are configured to receive a respective portion of the selected placeholder 500 therein. As shown in FIGS. 11A-11D, each guide member 2050 is configured to move in the firstAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOdirection DI (e.g., downwardly) until the guide members 2050 fully engage the placeholder 500 (i.e., portions of the placeholder 500 are received within the outer slotted recesses 2053). For example, as shown in FIG. 11B and FIG. 11D, the outer slotted recesses 2053 of each guide member 2050 receives a respective portion of the placeholder 500 as the guide members 2050 engage the placeholder 500.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 12A-12D, once the guide members 2050 are fully engaged with the placeholder 500 i.e., portions of the placeholder 500 are received within respective outer slotted recesses 2053 of the guide members 2050), the second guide member 2050b (proximate to the first clamp member 2030) is configured to move in the first direction F2 (i.e., toward the first guide member 2050a). As shown in FIG. 12C, the second guide member 2050b moves in the first direction F2 until the target feature 610t is captured (sandwiched) between the two guide members 2050. As further shown in FIG. 12B and FIG. 12D, when the target feature 610t is captured between the guide members 2050, at least a portion of the target feature 610t is positioned above the inner slotted recesses 2053 of each guide member 2050.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 13A-13D, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 may further comprise a tensioning unit 2060. Similar to the tensioning unit 1160 of reading apparatus subassembly 1100 described herein, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 is configured to create tension on the placeholder 500 extending through the target feature 610t on the textile 600 (or extending through a proximate structural feature) that a point 1006 (or other immobilizing tool) will be inserted. For example, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 is configured to engage and exert a force on the selected placeholder 500, thereby creating tension on the placeholder 500 extending through the target feature 610t or proximate structural feature on the textile 600.

[0088] In some embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 is configured to move in the second direction D2 to engage the placeholder 500. In some embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 is configured to "take-up" extra length of the placeholder 500, thereby creating tension in the placeholder 500. As shown FIG. 13C, the tensioning unit 2060 is illustrated being moved in an upward vertical direction; however, in other embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 may be configured to move in a downward direction or horizontal direction. In some embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 may be configured to move into a predetermined position or predetermined configuration. The tensioning unit 2060 is configured to engage the placeholder 500 at a locationAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WObetween the second guide member 2050b and the first clamp member 2030. For example, in some embodiments, the tensioning unit 2060 engages the placeholder 500 at a location proximate to the first clamp member 2030 (and the far side backstop member 201 Of). As the tensioning unit 2060 engages the placeholder 500, the spreader unit 2020 may be removed from the placeholder 500 (e.., is moved upwardly in the second direction D2).

[0089] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate a point 1006 of the needle assembly 1002 (or other immobilizing tool) being inserted through the target feature 610t corresponding to the selected placeholder 500. As shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, in some embodiments, the point 1006 is configured to move in the second horizontal direction F2 (i.e., in a direction from the near side backstop member 2010n toward the far side backstop member 20101) to engage the target feature 610t. As described above, at least a portion of the target feature 61 Ot is positioned above the inner slotted recesses 2055 of each guide member 2050. As shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, guided by the inner slotted recesses 2055 of the guide members 2050, the point 1006 is received through the target feature 610t. The additional space created by the outer slotted recesses 2053 holding respective portions of the placeholder 500 may help avoid the selected placeholder 500 interfering with the insertion of the point 1006 through the target feature 61 Ot.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 15A-15D, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 may further comprise a cutting assembly (not shown). The cutting assembly may be similar to the blade assembly 1180 described herein. In some embodiments, the cutting assembly of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 is configured to cut or otherwise sever the selected placeholder 500 after the point 1006 (or other immobilizing tool) has been inserted through the target feature 61 Ot. As shown in FIGS. 15A-15D, after the selected placeholder 500 has been severed, the guide members 2050 are configured to be move in the second direction F2 (e.g., upwardly) and away from the target feature 610t. The placeholder 500 (which is held between the first and second clamp members 2030, 2040 and corresponding backstop members 2010n, 2010) is removed (e.g., pulled) from the target feature 61 Ot as the textile 600 is advanced in the reading apparatus 2000; leaving the point 1006 extending through target feature 610t.

[0091] An Alternative Reading Subassembly

[0092] A reading apparatus 2500 adapted for use with a textile 600 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 16. In some embodiments, as described herein, theAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOtextile 600 may comprise a plurality of structural features 610 (see, e.g., FIGS. 17A-17B). Properties and / or features of the ready apparatus 2500 may be as described above in reference to the reading apparatus 1000 and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein.

[0093] According to embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 16, the reading apparatus 2500 includes an alternative reading apparatus subassembly 3000 that may be configured to be used in association with a needle assembly 1002, similar to other reading apparatus assemblies described herein. In some embodiments, the reading apparatus 2500 is configured to be installed on the needle assembly 1002. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 may be a dial assembly. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 may be part of an existing linking machine (not shown), such as a linking machine for a knitted garment. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 has a base 1004 having one or more points 1006 (e.g., needles) positioned on the base 1004. The points 1006 are positioned such that each point 1006 is configured to extend outwardly from the base 1004. In other words, each point 1006 is configured to be moved orthogonally relative to the base 1004 such that each point 1006 may be received through a respective target feature 610t on the textile 600, as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the needle assembly 1002 comprises at least one point actuator (not shown) configured to move each point 1006 to extend through the respective target feature 610t.

[0094] Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17B, the alternative reading apparatus subassembly 3000 is illustrated in greater detail. Properties and / or features of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 may be as described herein with respect to other reading apparatus subassemblies of the present invention and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing the reading apparatus subassembly 3000.

[0095] Similar to other reading apparatus subassemblies described herein, the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 is configured to identify respective locations of the placeholders 500 (and corresponding target features 61 Ot) in the textile 600 to assist in further marking the location of the corresponding target features 610t. In some embodiments, the location of the target features 6 lOt may be marked with a point 1006 from a needle assembly 1002 (or other immobilizing tool, see FIGS. 29A-29F) such that the textile 600 may be subsequently linked with another textile 600, for example, linking the sleeve of a sweater with the body of the sweater.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 17A-17B (see also FIGS. 18A-18B), in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 includes a guide member 3010, a feed assembly 3100, and a tension assembly 3030. The feed assembly 3100 is configured to engage with the anchor members 700 (and placeholders 500) to help advance the textile 600 through the reading apparatus 2500. In some embodiments, the feed assembly 3100 may comprise at least two platen members 3120. In some embodiments, the feed assembly 3100 may comprise a drive assembly 3130 coupled to each platen member 3120. The tension assembly 3030 is configured to engage with the placeholder 500 and exert tension thereon to mitigate or eliminate slack along the placeholder 500 that could hinder insertion of the point 1006. In some embodiments, the tension assembly 3030 may further comprise a cutting mechanism 3036 and corresponding blade 3036b (see FIG. 20C) that is configured to cut the placeholder 500 after the point 1006 has been inserted. In some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 may further include a plurality of clamp assemblies 3050 (see FIGS. 18A-18B). In some embodiments, the clamp assemblies 3050 are configured to engage with a respective platen member 3120 to secure / hold a corresponding anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 therebetween (see FIGS. 18A-18B). In some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 may further include a plurality of recoil assemblies 3060. In some embodiments, the recoil assemblies 3060 are configured to aid in positioning the loop of a placeholder 500 within the feed assembly 3100.

[0097] In some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 may be configured for use with two or more textile (panels) 600. For example, as shown in FIGS. 17A-17B, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 is configured for use with two textile panels 600 and includes two guide members 3010, two tension assemblies 3030, the feed assembly 3100, and four clamp assemblies 3050 configured to engage therewith. The subassembly 3000 shown in FIGS. 17A-17B has a feed assembly 3100 including three platen members 3120 (and associated drive assemblies 3130).

[0098] An exemplary operation of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 with respect to engaging a placeholder 500 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 18A-18B. FIG. 18A is a schematic top view of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000, and FIG. 18B is a schematic side view of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000.

[0099] As shown in FIGS. 18A-18B, the anchor members 700 and / or placeholders 500 are engaged within the feed assembly 3100 by opposing platen members 3120. The clampAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOassemblies 3050 are configured to press against or otherwise engage with the respective platen member 3120 to hold / secure the corresponding anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 therebetween, for example, during operation of the recoil assembly 3060. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, a protrusion or nub 3120p extends outwardly from one of the platen member 3120 and is configured to help separate opposing sections of the placeholder 500 (i.e., create additional space within the loop of the placeholder 500) to receive the guide member 3010 (see also FIG. 19A and FIG. 27). The guide member 3010 is configured to move in a first vertical direction and an arm member 3034 of the tension assembly 3030 is configured to move in a second opposing vertical direction to both engage to the placeholder 500. Once the placeholder 500 is engaged by the guide member 3010 and the arm member 3034 of the tension assembly 3030, a point 1006 (or other immobilizing tool) may be inserted through the guide member 3010 and into the target feature 610t (similar to other reading apparatus subassemblies described herein).

[0100] FIGS. 19A-28 illustrate some of the components of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 of the present invention in greater detail. Properties and / or features of one or more of these components may the same or similar as the components of other reading apparatus subassemblies described herein and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing the components of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000.

[0101] FIGS. 19A-19B illustrate the guide member 3010 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 according to embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the guide member 3010 is similar to the guide members 2050 described herein. As shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, in some embodiments, the guide member 3010 has a main body 3011. The main body 3011 has an outer pair of tine members 3012 and an inner pair of tine members 3014 extending outwardly therefrom. The inner pair of tine members 3014 reside between the outer pair of tine members 3012. The inner tine members 3014 are spaced apart from each other to form an inner slotted recess 3015. As shown in FIG. 19 A, in some embodiments, the inner slotted recess 3015 of the guide member 3010 is configured to receive a point 1006 (e.g., a needle or other immobilizing tool) therethrough. Each outer tine member 3012 is spaced apart from an adjacent inner tine member 3014 to form respective outer slotted recesses 3013 therebetween. As further shown in FIG. 19A, the outer slotted recesses 3013 of the guide member 3010 are configured to receive a respective portion of the selected placeholder 500 therein.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0102] According to embodiments of the present invention, the guide member 3010 is configured to move in a first direction until the guide member 3010 fully engages the placeholder 500 (z.e., respective portions of the placeholder 500 are received within the outer slotted recesses 3013 of the guide member 3010). In some embodiments, the first direction is a vertical (e.g., upwardly or downwardly) direction. In some embodiments, at some of the portions of the guide member 3010 may be configured to adjust position to capture the point 1006 (or other immobilizing tool) when moved (or positioned) in the first direction and release the point 1006 when moved (or positioned) in a second opposing direction. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the tine members 3012, 3014 may be formed from a flexible material. The flexible material allows for easier deflection of the tine members 3012, 3014, for example, around an inserted point 1006 during removal of the guide member 3010 from engagement with the placeholder 500. As shown in FIG. 19B, after a point 1006 has been inserted through the inner slotted recess 3015 of the guide member 3010 (and into a target feature 610t in the textile 600), as the guide member 3010 is removed from engagement with the placeholder 500 (i.e., the guide member 3010 is moved in a second opposing vertical direction (e.g., upwardly)). In some embodiments, the flexible inner tine members 3014 are configured to deflect around the point 1006, while also maximizing the engagement length of the outer slotted recesses 3013 of the guide member 3010 with the respective portions of the placeholder 500 received therein.

[0103] FIGS. 20A-20C illustrate the tension assembly 3030 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 as well as an exemplary function thereof according to embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the tension assembly 3030 may comprise a tension mechanism 3032 having an arm member 3034 extending downwardly therefrom. In some embodiments, a hook or other latching feature 3034h resides at an end of the arm member 3034. The hook or latching feature 3034h is configured to engage with the placeholder 500 (see also FIG. 18B). In some embodiments, the tension mechanism 3032 is coupled to a first biasing component 3035 (e.g., a spring). The first biasing component 3035 is configured to control the vertical movement of the tension mechanism 3032 (and arm member 3034 extending therefrom) to engage the placeholder 500 and apply tension thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. 20B, in some embodiments, the first biasing component 3035 is configured to be compressed Fl (or otherwise moved in a first direction, e.g., downwardly), which forces the tension mechanism 3032 (and arm member 3034) to move in an opposing second direction, e.g., upwardly, such that theAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOhook 3034h engages the placeholder 500. This movement of the arm member 2024 relative to the placeholder 500 creates tension along the length of the placeholder 500, and thereby accounts for differences in the length (e.g., slack) of the placeholder 500 (see also FIG. 18B). In contrast, when the first biasing component 3035 is decompressed (or otherwise moved in the second direction, e.g., upwardly), the tension mechanism 3032 and arm member 3034 move in the opposing first direction, e.g., downwardly, which releases the tension being exerted on the placeholder 500 and disengages the placeholder 500 from the hook 3034h.

[0104] As described herein, in some embodiments, the tension assembly 3030 may further comprise a cutting mechanism 3036 having a coupled thereto to a severing member, such as a blade 3036b. In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism 3036 may comprise an arm member (not shown) that extends within the arm member 3034 of the tension mechanism 3032. The blade 3036b may reside at an end of the arm member of the cutting mechanism 3036 and contained within the hook or latching feature 3034h of the arm member 3034. In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism 3036 is further coupled to a second biasing component 3033 (e.g., a spring). The second biasing component 3033 is configured to control the vertical movement of the blade 3036b of the cutting mechanism 3036. For example, as shown in FIG. 20C, in some embodiments, the second biasing component 3033 is configured to be compressed F2 (e.g., downwardly), which forces the blade 3036b to move in an upward direction from the hook 3034h and cut the placeholder 500 held by the hook 3034h.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 21A-21D, a platen member 3120 of the feed assembly 3100 for the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated in greater detail. According to embodiments of the present invention, the platen member 3120 is configured to help guide the corresponding anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. As described herein, in some embodiments, the feed assembly 3100 comprises at least two platen members 3120.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 21 A-21B, in some embodiments, the platen member 3120 includes a first section 3122 and a second section 3124 that is sloped or angled relative to the first section 3122. In some embodiments, the sloped or angled section 3124 provides a platform for the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 to enter the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. In some embodiments, a portion 125 of the sloped / angled section 3124 of the platen member 3120 may have an arcuate profile (e.g., slightly rounded). The arcuate portion 125 of the platenAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOmember 3120 may help to reduce friction on the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 as the anchor member 700 and placeholder 500 are being feed into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. In some embodiments, the platen member 3120 may comprise a protrusion or nub 3120p that extends outwardly from the platen member 3120. As described herein, in some embodiments, the protrusion 3120p is configured to separate opposing sections of the placeholder 500 (i.e., create additional space within the loop of the placeholder 500) to receive the guide member 3010 (see also FIG. 19A and FIG. 27).

[0107] In some embodiments, the platen member 3120 includes a channel 3126. In some embodiments, the channel 3126 is sized and configured to receive a corresponding anchor member 700 being feed into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. In some embodiments, the channel 3126 is configured to help guide the corresponding anchor member 700 as the anchor member 700 is being feed into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. In some embodiments, the platen member 3120 may include a through aperture 3128. In some embodiments, the through aperture 3128 may reside in a portion of the channel 3126. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the through aperture 3128 may be configured to receive a plunger member 3068 that is part of a recoil assembly 3060 (see FIGS. 24A-24B, FIGS. 25A-25B, and FIG. 26).

[0108] In some embodiments, the platen member 3120 may further include a tension element 3127. In some embodiments, the tension element 3127 may reside on the sloped / angled section 3124 of the platen member 3120. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the tension element 3127 may extend into the channel 3126. In some embodiments, the tension element 3127 comprises rubber or a like material. In some embodiments, the tension element 3127 may comprise a spring-loaded plate. According to embodiments of the present invention, the tension element 3127 is configured to create a discrete tension point or region on the anchor member 700 being fed into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000.

[0109] As shown in FIGS. 21C-21D, in some embodiments, the feed assembly 3100 comprises a platen assembly 3120' in which the platen member 3120 shown in FIGS. 21A-21B is a first or lower platen member 3120a and the platen assembly 3120' comprises a second or upper platen member 3120b. The platen assembly 3120' is configured to help hold / secure the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 in position as the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 are being feed between the first and second platen members 3120a, 3120b and into the readingAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOapparatus subassembly 3000. As shown in FIG. 21 C, in some embodiments, the sloped / angled section 3124b of the second or upper platen member 3120b includes a through aperture 3128b. As discussed further below, the through aperture 3128b aligns with the through aperture 3128 in the lower platen member 3120a and is configured to receive the plunger member 3068 of the recoil assembly 3060 (see FIGS. 24A-24B, FIGS. 25A-25B, and FIG. 26).

[0110] FIG. 21D is a cross-sectional partial side view of the platen assembly 3120' described herein and further illustrates the position of the tension element 3127 therein. As shown in FIG. 21D, at least a portion of the tension element 3127 extends into the channel 3126. A first gap GA resides between the tension element 3127 and a lower surface of the channel 3126 in the lower platen member 3120a. In some embodiments, the first gap GA is sized and configured such that the anchor member 700 can pass therethrough. As further shown in FIG. 21D, a second gap GPH resides between the tension element 3127 and an upper surface of the angled / sloped section 3124a of the lower platen member 3120a. In some embodiments, the second gap GPH is sized and configured such that the placeholder 500 can pass therethrough.[OlH] FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate a drive assembly 3130 of the feed assembly 3100 for the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 22A-22B, in some embodiments, is coupled to, or otherwise engaged with, a corresponding platen assembly 3120. According to embodiments of the present invention, the drive assembly 3130 is configured to help move / feed the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000.

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 22A-22B, in some embodiments, the drive assembly 3130 comprises a plurality of gears 3132a, 3132b, 3133. In some embodiments, the plurality of gears 3132a, 3132b, 3133 may be contained within a drive assembly housing 3131. In some embodiments, a lower gear 3132a may be coupled to an upper gear 3132b. In some embodiments, the lower and upper gears 3132a, 3132b comprise a plurality of teeth 3134. As shown in FIG. 22A, in some embodiments, the upper gear 3132b may be coupled to a drive gear 3133, for example, via a drive shaft 3136. As shown in FIG. 22B, the lower and upper gears 3132a, 3132b are positioned to align with the channel 3126 in the lower platen member 3120a. As the gears 3132a, 3132b rotate, the plurality of teeth 3134 are configured to contact or grip the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 to help pull the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 through the respective first and second gaps GA, GPH between the lower and upper platen members 3120a, 3120b (andAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOtension member 3127) and feed the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. In some embodiments, the first gap GA between the lower and upper platen members 3120a, 3120b (i.e., for the anchor member 700) is in a range of between about 0.1 millimeter and about 1.0 millimeter. In some embodiments, the second gap GPH between the lower and upper platen members 3120a, 3120b (i.e., for the placeholder 500) is in a range of between about 0.05 millimeters and about 0.1 millimeters.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 23A-23B, a clamp assembly 3050 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. In some embodiments, the clamp assembly 3050 may form part of the feed assembly 3100 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 (see FIG. 26). FIG. 23A is a side perspective view of a clamp assembly 3050 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 in a raised (unclamped) position. FIG. 23B is a side perspective view of the clamp assembly 3050 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 in a lowered (clamped) position. As described herein, in some embodiments, the clamp assembly 3050 is configured to engage with a respective platen member 3120 to help secure / hold a corresponding anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 therebetween (see FIG. 26).

[0114] As shown in FIGS. 23A-23B, in some embodiments, the clamp assembly 3050 comprises a clamp arm 3052. In some embodiments, the clamp arm 3052 is pivotably coupled to a mounting plate 3051 (e.g., pivotable about a bolt 3057). In some embodiments, a clamp member 3053 may be coupled to an end of the clamp arm 3052. In some embodiments, when the clamp arm 3052 is moved into a lowered / clamped position, the clamp member 3053 is configured to contact / compress the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 against the (lower) platen member 3120 and hold the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 therebetween. In some embodiments, the clamp member 3053 may be formed from a rubber or other polymeric material, thereby allowing the clamp member 3053 to compress against the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500 without damaging the anchor member 700 and / or placeholder 500.

[0115] As further shown in FIGS. 23A-23B, in some embodiments, the clamp assembly 3050 comprises an actuator 3055. In some embodiments, the actuator 3055 may comprise a pneumatic piston rod. In some embodiments, an actuator arm 3054 may reside between and couple the clamp arm 3052 to the actuator 3055. In some embodiments, the clamp assembly 3050 may further comprise a coupling member 3056 residing between the clamp arm 3052 and the actuatorAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOarm 3054. In some embodiments, the coupling member 3056 may be pivotably coupled to the clamp arm 3052 and the actuator arm 3054 (e.g., pivotable about respective bolts 3059a, 3059b).

[0116] The actuator 3055 is configured to move the clamp arm 3052 between raised / lowered (unclamped / clamped) positions relative to the platen member 3120. As shown in FIG. 23 A, the actuator 3055 has moved the clamp arm 3052 into a raised (unclamped) position, for example, by retracting the actuator arm 3054 (direction A). As shown in FIG. 23B, the actuator 3055 has moved the clamp arm 3052 into a lowered (clamped) position, for example, by extending / pushing the actuator arm 3054 (direction B).

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 24A-24B, the recoil assembly 3060 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 according to embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. The term "recoil" is used because the recoil assembly 3060 is configured to move (or recoil) the anchor member 700 against (or opposite to) the primary direction of movement within the reading apparatus subassembly 3000. In some embodiments, the recoil assembly 3060 may form part of the feed assembly 3100 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 (see FIGS. 25A-25B and FIG. 26). In some embodiments, the recoil assembly 3060 is configured to aid in positioning the loop of the placeholder 500 within the feed assembly 3100. In some embodiments, the recoil assembly 3060 is configured to help position the loop of the placeholder 500 across the protrusion or nub 3120p extending outwardly from the platen member 3120.

[0118] As shown in FIGS. 24A-24B, in some embodiments, the recoil assembly 3060 includes a mounting bracket (or sliding rail) 3062 and a recoil mechanism 3064 configured to move relative to the mounting bracket 3062. In some embodiments, the recoil mechanism 3064 is configured to move in a vertical direction relative to the mounting bracket 3062 (i.e., in order to engage / disengage the platen assembly 3120', see also, e.g., FIGS. 25A-25B). In some embodiments, the recoil assembly 3060 may comprise one or more arm members 3066 coupled to the recoil mechanism 3064. In some embodiments, a plunger member 3068 may reside at the end of each arm member 3066. As described in further detail below, in some embodiments, the plunger member 3068 may be configured to be received by the corresponding platen assembly 3120' in order to engage with the placeholder 500 being feed therethrough (see, e.g., FIGS. 25A-25B and FIG. 26).

[0119] FIGS. 25A-25B illustrate an exemplary operation of the recoil assembly 3060 according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 25A, a placeholder 500 is being feedAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOinto the feed assembly 3100 (direction Fl) between the upper and lower platen members (i.e., sections 3124a, 3124b). FIG. 25A shows the plunger member 3068 of the recoil assembly 3060 positioned within the through aperture 3128b of the upper platen member 3124b in a disengaged state, i.e., not engaged with the placeholder 500. The " X" in FIG. 25A indicates a reference point along the placeholder 500. FIG. 25B shows the plunger member 3068 of the recoil assembly 3060 moved (lowered) to extend into the through aperture 3128 of the lower platen member 3124a in order to engage with the placeholder 500. As the plunger member 3068 engages with the placeholder 500, at least a portion of the placeholder 500 is moved an opposing direction F2 (i.e., opposite to the feed direction Fl) which is evident by the change in position of the reference point X along the placeholder 500 (compared to its position in FIG. 25A). Thus, according to embodiments of the present invention, the recoil assembly 3060 is configured to move the placeholder 500 back-and-forth within the feed assembly 3100 to aid in positioning the placeholder 500, for example, relative to the protrusion or nub 3120p of the platen member 3120.

[0120] FIG. 26 illustrates the feed assembly 3100 of the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 showing the recoil assembly 3060 engaged with the platen assembly 3120 (and placeholder 500 feed therethrough) according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 26, the clamp member 3053 of the clamp assembly 3050 is positioned above an opening 3129b of the platen assembly 3120' while the plunger member 3068 of the recoil assembly 3060 is received within the through aperture 3128b of the platen assembly 3120' to engage the placeholder 500 feed therethrough.

[0121] As described herein, FIG. 27 further illustrates how the protrusion or nub 3120p of the platen member 3120 may be used to create additional space D within the loop of a placeholder 500 according to embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 27, as the anchor member 700 is feed into the reading apparatus subassembly 3000 (via the feed assembly 3100), each placeholder 500 passes over the protrusion or nub 3120p. As the placeholder 500 passes over the nub 3120p, the nub 3120p slips between portions of the placeholder 500 to further separate the portions of the placeholder 50, thereby creating additional space D within the loop of the placeholder 500. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 28, a rotating brush feature 3120b may be used to aid in creating additional space D within the loop of a placeholder 500. In some embodiments, the rotating brush feature 3120b may be positioned adjacent to the protrusion or nub 3120p extending from the platen member 3120, and function is a similar matter to further pushAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO(or separate) portions of the placeholder 500 from each other, thereby creating additional space D within the loop of the placeholder 500.

[0122] As described herein, different immobilizing tools may be used to engage a target feature 610t corresponding to the selected placeholder 500. FIGS. 29A-29F illustrate a reading apparatus subassembly 2100' utilizing an alternative immobilizing tool (i.e., clamps 1006A, 1006B) to engage the target feature 61 Ot corresponding to the selected placeholder 500. Properties and / or features of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100' may be as described above in reference to the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 shown in FIGS. 14A-14D and FIGS. 15A-15D and duplicate discussion thereof may be omitted herein for the purposes of discussing FIGS. 29A-29F.

[0123] As shown in FIGS. 29A-29C, in some embodiments, a first clamp 1006A is configured to move in the second horizontal direction F2 to engage the target feature 610t as a second clamp 1006B is configured to move in the opposing first horizontal direction Fl (i.e., along the same axis) to engage the opposing side of the target feature 61 Ot. As shown in FIGS. 29A-29C, in some embodiments, the clamps 1006A, 1006B are guided by the inner slotted recesses 2055 of the guide members 2050 to capture the target feature 61 Ot between the clamps 1006A, 1006B. Similar to the reading apparatus subassembly 2100 described herein, the additional space created by the outer slotted recesses 2053 of the guide members 2050 holding respective portions of the placeholder 500 may help avoid the selected placeholder 500 interfering with the engagement (capturing) of the target feature 61 Ot by the clamps 1006A, 1006B.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 29D-29F, in some embodiments, the reading apparatus subassembly 2100' may further comprise a cutting assembly (not shown). The cutting assembly may be similar to the blade assembly 1180 described herein. In some embodiments, the cutting assembly of the reading apparatus subassembly 2100' is configured to cut or otherwise sever the selected placeholder 500 after the immobilizing tool (i.e., clamps 1006A, 1006B) have captured the target feature 610t. As shown in FIGS. 29D-29F, after the selected placeholder 500 has been severed, the guide members 2050 are configured to be move in the second direction D2 (e.g., upwardly) and away from the target feature 61 Ot. The placeholder 500 is removed (e.g., pulled) from the target feature 610t as the textile 600 is advanced within the reading apparatus subassembly 2100'.

[0125] The present inventive concepts are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples, in which embodiments are shown. Additional embodiments may take onAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOmany 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 concepts to those skilled in the art.

[0126] Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the figures, the thickness of certain lines, layers, components, elements or features may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0127] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting thereof. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude 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 to include 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%.

[0128] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein 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 commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the specification and relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity.

[0129] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on," "attached" to, "connected" to, "coupled" with, "contacting," etc., another element, it may be directly on, attached to, connected to, coupled with or contacting the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being, for example, "directly on," "directly attached" to, "directly connected" to, "directly coupled" with or "directly contacting" another element, there are no intervening elements present. It will also be appreciated by those of skill inAttorney Docket No. 1701.5. WOthe art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed "adjacent" another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

[0130] Spatially relative terms, such as "under," "below," "lower," "over," "upper" and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, elements described as "under" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "over" the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term "under" may encompass both an orientation of "over" and "under." The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms "upwardly," "downwardly," "vertical," "horizontal" and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0131] 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 only used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a "first" element discussed below could also be termed a "second" element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure. The sequence of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presented in the claims or figures unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0132] Operations and methods as described herein may be performed, in whole or in part, by a controller including a processor and programmed with respect to knitting machine control data, or data from the devices described herein. The controller may utilize computer program instructions that may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, and / or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer and / or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts described herein.

[0133] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / acts described herein.Attorney Docket No. 1701.5. WO

[0134] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the operations and function / acts described herein.

[0135] Accordingly, the present invention may be embodied in hardware and / or in software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.). Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-usable or computer-readable non-transient storage medium having computer-usable or computer-readable program code embodied in the medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system.

[0136] The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, and a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM).

[0137] The foregoing is illustrative of the present inventive concept and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few example embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings of this inventive concept. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this inventive concept as defined in the claims. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of the present inventive concept and is not to be construed as limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications to the disclosed embodiments, as well as other embodiments, are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WOWhat is Claimed is:

1. A subassembly for a reading apparatus for a textile, wherein the textile comprises a plurality of structural features including one or more target features, one or more of the structural features having a placeholder extending therethrough such that the placeholder extends through a target feature, or a structural feature proximate to the target feature, the subassembly comprising:a guide member configured to spread a loop of the placeholder; anda tensioning unit configured to create tension on the placeholder extending through the target feature or a structural feature proximate to the target feature,wherein the guide member is configured to provide a space for the insertion of an immobilizing tool to or through the target feature.

2. The subassembly according to Claim 1, wherein the placeholder engages a pair of anchor members.

3. The subassembly according to any one of Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein the guide member is configured to immobilize respective portions of the placeholder to provide the space for the application of the immobilizing tool to the target feature.

4. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide member is configured to move in a vertical direction when being inserted into the placeholder.

5. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a protrusion configured to spread the placeholder and provide additional space for the guide member to be received by the placeholder.

6. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning unit is configured to engage the placeholder to exert a force thereon and create tension on the placeholder extending through the target feature.Attorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WO7. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide member comprises one or more tine members.

8. The subassembly according to Claim 7, wherein the guide member comprises an outer pair of tine members and an inner pair of tine members, the inner pair of tine members reside between the outer pair of tine members and are configured to deflect around the point when inserted therethrough, and wherein each of the outer tine members is spaced apart from an adjacent inner tine member to form respective outer slotted recesses, the outer slotted recesses of the guide member configured to receive a respective portion of the placeholder.

9. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning unit comprises a cutting assembly configured to sever the placeholder after the point is received through the target feature.

10. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the immobilizing tool is a needle, a clamp, a magnet, an electrostatic gripper, or a hook / loop gripper.

11. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first platen member and an opposing second platen member.

12. The subassembly according to Claim 11, further comprising a first clamp member and a second clamp member, each clamp member configured to engage a respective platen member and hold at least a portion of the placeholder therebetween.

13. The subassembly according to any one of Claim 11 or Claim 12, wherein each platen member comprises a tapered edge to help guide a respective anchor member into the reading apparatus.

14. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 11-13, wherein each platen member comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper and lower portions configured to hold the placeholder therebetween.Attorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WO15. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 11-14, wherein the first and / or second platen member comprises a drive assembly configured to feed the placeholder into the reading apparatus.

16. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the textile is a knitted fabric and the plurality of structural features are a plurality of loops including one or more loops.

17. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 1-15, wherein the textile is a woven fabric, a warp-knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, leather, a crocheted fabric, a cast, extruded, pressed, rolled, or 3d-printed plastic fabric, or lace.

18. The subassembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more structural features of the textile comprise a topological feature of the textile that is configured to hold a placeholder on or in the topological feature.

19. A subassembly for a reading apparatus for a textile, wherein the textile comprises a plurality of structural features including one or more target features, one or more of the structural features having a placeholder extending therethrough such that the placeholder extends through or around a target feature, or a structural feature proximate to the target feature, and the anchor members to mark the target feature, the subassembly comprising:a guide member configured to spread a loop of the placeholder, the guide member comprising one or more tine members; anda tensioning unit configured to engage the placeholder to exert a force thereon and create tension on the placeholder extending through the target feature or a structural feature proximate to the target feature.

20. The subassembly according to Claim 19, wherein the placeholder engages a pair of anchor members.Attorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WO21. The subassembly according to any one of Claim 19 or Claim 20, wherein the one or more tine members comprise an inner pair of tine members residing between an outer pair of tine members and are configured to deflect around an immobilizing tool when inserted therethrough, each of the outer tine members is spaced apart from an adjacent inner tine member to form respective outer slotted recesses, the outer slotted recesses of the guide member configured to receive and hold a respective portion of the placeholder.

22. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 19-21, wherein the guide member is configured to move in a vertical direction when being inserted into the placeholder.

23. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 19-22, wherein the tensioning unit is configured to move in a vertical direction to exert the force on the placeholder.

24. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 19-23, further comprising one or more platen members.

25. The subassembly according to Claim 24, comprising a first platen member and an opposing second platen member.

26. The subassembly according to any one of Claim 24 or Claim 25, further comprising a first clamp member and a second clamp member, each clamp member configured to engage a respective platen member and hold at least a portion of the placeholder therebetween.

27. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 24-26, wherein each platen member comprises an upper plate and a lower plate, the upper and lower plates configured to hold the placeholder therebetween.

28. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 24-27, wherein at least one of the platen members comprises a protrusion configured to spread the placeholder and provide additional space for the guide member to be received by the placeholder.Attorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WO29. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 19-28, wherein the textile is a knitted fabric and the plurality of structural features are a plurality of loops including one or more target loops.

30. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 19-28, wherein the textile is a woven fabric, a warp-knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, leather, a crocheted fabric, a cast, extruded, pressed, rolled, or 3d-printed plastic fabric, or lace.

31. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 19-30, wherein the one or more structural features of the textile comprise a topological feature of the textile that is configured to hold a placeholder on or in the topological feature.

32. A method of designating target features in a textile, wherein the textile comprises a plurality of structural features having a series of placeholders extending through respective target features, the method comprising:identifying a selected placeholder corresponding to a target feature;positioning a guide member relative to the selected placeholder;capturing the placeholder within the guide member; andinserting a point through a recess in the guide member and through the target feature.

33. The method according to Claim 32, wherein the placeholders are connected to anchor members.

34. The method according to any one of Claim 32 or Claim 33, wherein the placeholder corresponding to a target feature is identified with a sensor, for example a camera, a photocell, a photodiode, a laser sensor, a photo interrupter, a microswitch, a whisker sensor, a capacitive sensor, or an inductive sensor.

35. The method according to any one of Claim 32-34, wherein prior to inserting the guide member into the placeholder, a protrusion from a platen member spreads the selectedAttorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WOplaceholder, thereby providing additional space for inserting the guide member into the selected placeholder.

36. The method according to any one of Claims 33-35, further comprising disconnecting the selected placeholder from the anchor members, or severance of the selected placeholder, thereby allowing removal of the selected placeholder from the target feature.

37. The method according to any one of Claims 32-36, wherein after identifying the selected placeholder, the method further comprises applying a force to create tension on the selected placeholder extending through the target feature.

38. The method according to any one of Claims 32-37, further comprising repeating each step for one or many of a series of placeholders.

39. The method according to any one of Claims 32-38, wherein the textile is a knitted fabric and the plurality of structural features are a plurality of loops including one or more target loops.

40. The method according to any one of Claims 32-39, wherein the textile is a woven fabric, a warp-knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, leather, a crocheted fabric, a cast, extruded, pressed, rolled, or 3d-printed plastic fabric, or lace, and the plurality of structural features are a plurality of coordinates on or in the textile.

41. A subassembly for a reading apparatus for a textile, wherein the textile comprises a plurality of structural features including one or more target features, one or more of the structural features having a placeholder extending therethrough such that the placeholder extends through a target feature, or a structural feature proximate to the target feature, and the anchor members to mark the target feature, the subassembly comprising:a guide member configured to increase a dimension of the placeholder;a feed assembly configured to engage the anchor member and placeholder to advance the textile into the reading apparatus; andAttorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WOa tension assembly configured to create tension on the placeholder extending through the target feature or a structural feature proximate to the target feature,wherein the guide member is configured to hold respective portions of the placeholder and provide space for the application of an immobilizing tool to or through the target feature.

42. The subassembly according to Claim 41, wherein the placeholder engages a pair of anchor member.

43. The subassembly according to any one of Claim 41 or Claim 42, wherein the feed assembly comprises a platen assembly configured to guide the anchor member and placeholder into the reading apparatus and a drive assembly configured to advance the placeholder member and / or anchor member into the reading apparatus.

44. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-43, wherein the tension assembly comprises a tension mechanism and a cutting mechanism.

45. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-44, further comprising a clamp assembly configured to engage with the feed assembly to hold the anchor member and / or placeholder being fed therethrough.

46. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-45, further comprising a recoil assembly configured to engage with the feed assembly and aid in positioning the placeholder within the feed assembly.

47. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-46, wherein the guide member is configured to move in a first vertical direction to engage the placeholder and the tension assembly is configured to move in a second opposing vertical direction to engage the placeholder.

48. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-47, wherein the guide member comprises an outer pair of tine members and an inner pair of tine members, the innerAttorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WOpair of tine members reside between the outer pair of tine members and are spaced apart from each other to form an inner slotted recess configured to receive the point therethrough, each outer tine member is spaced apart from an adjacent inner tine member to form respective outer slotted recesses therebetween, the outer slotted recesses configured to receive a respective portion of the placeholder therein, wherein the inner pair of tine members is formed from a flexible material.

49. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-48, wherein the tension assembly comprises a tension mechanism having an arm member extending downwardly therefrom and a latching feature residing at an end of the arm member that is configured to engage with the placeholder.

50. The subassembly according to Claim 49, wherein the tension assembly further comprises a first biasing component coupled to the tension mechanism, the first biasing component is configured to control vertical movement of the tension mechanism to engage the placeholder and apply tension thereto.

51. The subassembly according to Claim 50, wherein the tension assembly further comprises a cutting mechanism having a coupled thereto blade, the cutting mechanism coupled to a second biasing component configured to control vertical movement of the blade.

52. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 43-51, wherein the platen assembly comprises an upper platen member and a lower platen member, the lower platen member comprising a sloped or angled section and a channel configured to guide the anchor member and / or placeholder into the reading apparatus, the lower platen member further comprising a protrusion extending outwardly therefrom configured to create additional space within the placeholder.

53. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 41-52, wherein the feed assembly further comprises a rotating brush feature configured to create additional space within the placeholder.Attorney Docket No. 1701.

5. WO54. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 43-53, wherein the platen assembly comprises a tension element configured to create a discrete tension point on the anchor member being feed into the reading apparatus.

55. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 53-54, wherein the drive assembly comprises a first gear and a second gear, each gear having a plurality of teeth configured to grip and pull the anchor member and / or placeholder into the reading apparatus.

56. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 45-55, wherein the clamp assembly comprises a pivotably mounted clamp arm configured to compress the anchor member and / or placeholder against the platen assembly.

57. The subassembly according to Claim 56, wherein the clamp assembly further comprises an actuator configured to move the clamp arm.

58. The subassembly according to any one of Claims 46-57, including a recoil assembly comprising an arm member configured to move relative to the drive assembly, the platen, the guide, the clamp, or the tensioning member, in order to reposition a placeholder.

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