Adjustable Needle Module Segments for Needling Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing needle modules for needling machines have fixed needle arrangements and spacings, making it difficult to adapt to different stitching patterns or compensate for defects without needing multiple custom modules and boards, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A needle module composed of modular segments with a guide element allowing adjustable spacing and arrangement of needles, enabling flexible adaptation to various stitching patterns without requiring new boards or modules, using a wire or threaded rod guide element for easy adjustment and fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If needle modules with fixed needle arrangements are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to different stitching patterns is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The needle module is divided into multiple movable module segments that can be independently positioned along the guide element. Each segment contains one or more needles and can be adjusted to different locations, allowing flexible configuration of needle arrangements without requiring completely different module designs for each stitching pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The module segments are made movable along the guide element through a receptacle connection that allows sliding. This dynamic configuration enables the needle spacing and arrangement to be changed by repositioning segments, transforming a static fixed-arrangement system into an adjustable one that adapts to various stitching requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple custom needle modules and boards are kept for different arrangements, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single needle board with guide elements can accommodate multiple different needle arrangements by repositioning the module segments along the guide. This universal system replaces the need for multiple specialized needle boards, as the same board can be configured for different stitching patterns by adjusting segment positions.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the needle module into movable units that can be independently positioned, the system allows a single board to serve multiple functions. Different stitching patterns are achieved by reconfiguring the same physical segments rather than requiring separate complete needle boards for each pattern.
3Ease of operation
If individual needles are mounted by injection-molding or casting, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the ability to adjust needle spacing is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The needle module is segmented into movable units that can be independently positioned. Each segment head with its needle(s) is manufactured as a separate component that slides along the guide element, combining the manufacturing simplicity of individual components with the operational flexibility of adjustable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide element acts as an intermediary between the module segments and the needle board. It provides the track along which segments can be moved and positioned, enabling easy adjustment of needle spacing without complex manufacturing requirements for the segments themselves.
Data Source
AI summary
The needle module for mounting in receptacles of a needle board of a needling machine comprises a plurality of module segments. Each module segment comprises a segment head and at least one needle, and the segment head is equipped with the at least one needle. The needle module also comprises a guide element extending in a longitudinal direction of the needle module. In an adjustment state of the needle module, the module segments are connected to the guide element, and at least one module segment is movable along the guide element.