Circular Sewing Template for Pattern Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional circular sewing machines require complex computing functions to ensure that the sewing start position of a first pattern coincides with the sewing end position of a last pattern, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies, as well as wastage of materials and time due to trial-and-error adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A template with a transparent sheet member featuring concentric arc-shaped base lines and pattern pitch measurement lines allows for easy determination of positional coincidence by placing the template's center point on the lock point and aligning the pattern pitch measurement lines with the sewing start and end positions, enabling adjustments without the need for computing functions in the sewing machine.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If computing functions are added to the sewing machine to calculate circumference and correct pattern length, then the precision of pattern alignment is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern alignment precisionVSAvoidmachine configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a physical template that copies and encodes the mathematical relationships (circumference calculations, pattern spacing) into a tangible tool. The template contains pre-calculated measurement markings that represent the computational results, allowing users to directly measure and adjust pattern parameters without the machine performing calculations. This transfers the computational function from the machine to the template.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The template acts as an intermediary tool between the user and the sewing machine. It provides pre-computed measurement references that mediate the alignment process, allowing the user to determine correct pattern spacing and circumference relationships through simple physical measurement rather than requiring the machine to perform complex calculations. The template bridges the gap between geometric requirements and practical pattern placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If trial sewing is performed multiple times to adjust pattern parameters, then the pattern alignment precision is improved, but the loss of time and material increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern alignment precisionVSAvoidtrial sewing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The template performs preliminary calculations and encodes the results in physical measurement markings before the actual sewing process. By pre-calculating the correct pattern spacing, circumference divisions, and alignment references, the template eliminates the need for multiple trial sewings. Users can directly determine correct pattern parameters through measurement, performing the alignment optimization work beforehand rather than through iterative trial and error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If the sewing machine includes automated computing functions for pattern correction, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern adjustment easeVSAvoidmachine configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive, complex automated computing functions with a simple, inexpensive physical template. The template is a low-cost tool that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, whereas automated computing functions would require expensive electronics, processors, and software. The template provides the same functional benefit (correct pattern alignment) without the high cost and complexity of automated systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS7958834B2Template for use in circular sewing
Publication Date: 2011.06.14 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US7958834B2 patent drawing
  • US7958834B2 patent drawing
  • US7958834B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A template for circular sewing is used for repeatedly sewing a single pattern into a circular arrangement with use of a sewing machine equipped with a circular sewing device. The template includes a transparent sheet member having a center point, a plurality of arc-shaped base lines arranged in a concentric pattern about the center point of the sheet member, and a plurality of linear pattern pitch measurement lines which are provided for measuring a pitch of the patterns and which are arranged on the sheet member so as to pass through the center point of the sheet member and across the arc-shaped base lines. A total number of patterns is indicated near to an end of the template. The total number of patterns is obtained when a pattern with a pitch substantially coinciding with one of the pattern pitch measurement lines has been sewn into a circular arrangement.