Cylindrical Spring Bobbin for Double Backstitch Sewing Machine

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hook designs for double-lockstitch sewing machines face challenges in achieving uniform braking torque and long extension distances for the spool, as the truncated cone spring configuration is difficult to optimize for these requirements.

Innovation Solution

A cylindrical helical spring is used as the braking and extension spring, which engages in a recess of the bobbin hub, allowing for precise control of braking moments and enabling larger extension distances, while also utilizing the space between the bobbin flange and case more efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a truncated cone spring is used as the braking and extension spring, then the spring can be compressed to the thickness of the windings when the hook thread bobbin is inserted, but it is very difficult to achieve both optimization of the long extension path for the spool and uniform braking torque exerted on the spool

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextension distance of spoolVSAvoiduniform braking torque
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the geometric parameters of the spring from a truncated cone shape to a cylindrical shape with constant diameter. This parameter change allows the spring to provide consistent braking torque throughout its compression stroke while accommodating the required extension distance, resolving the contradiction between extension path optimization and uniform braking torque

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the spring into multiple active coils of equal length, where each coil contributes uniformly to the braking torque. This segmentation ensures that the force distribution remains consistent during compression, achieving uniform braking torque while maintaining the required extension distance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If a truncated cone spring is used, then the spring structure is compact, but the extension distance for the spool is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextension distance of spoolVSAvoidspring geometry
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a truncated cone shape that tapers to a smaller diameter, the patent inverts the approach by using a cylindrical shape with constant diameter throughout. This inversion allows the spring to extend fully along the axis without the geometric constraints of a tapered shape, achieving the required long extension distance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Length of moving object

If a cylindrical helical spring is used, then large extension distances are possible and braking moments can be set very precisely, but the spring requires sufficient space in the recess of the hook thread spool

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextension distance of spoolVSAvoidrecess space in bobbin hub
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a cylindrical spring that may extend slightly beyond the recess boundaries when fully compressed, accepting partial excess action to achieve the required extension distance. The constant diameter design allows the spring to maximize its axial length while minimizing the radial space required in the bobbin hub recess

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This design ensures uniform gripper thread tension and allows for extended spool movement, with consistent braking torque and precise thread pulling, enhancing the operational efficiency of the sewing machine.

Implementation Method 1

an essentially cylindrical helical spring is used as the braking and extension spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the braking and extension spring does not have to be mathematically exactly cylindrical; the decisive factor is that it has sufficient space in the recess of the hook thread spool

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 3

engages in a corresponding recess in the hub of the looper thread bobbin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2138623B1Looper for a double backstitch sewing machine
Publication Date: 2011.03.02 DURKOPP ADLER GMBH
  • EP2138623B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2138623B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP2138623B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The gripper e.g. double-backstitch gripper (8), has a bobbin case (21) arranged in a cap-shaped gripping body (24) about an axis (9) and including a base (34) and a bearing pin (25). A gripper thread bobbin (26) is movably arranged on the pin in a direction of the axis, and includes flanges (28, 29) that are spaced apart from each other, where the flanges are connected to a hollow boss (27). A brake spring and an exhaust spring i.e. cylindrical helical spring, enclose the pin, and the case is reinforced at a region of the base, and the bobbin is reinforced in an opening (31) of the boss.