Fabric sheet loading and unloading machine for a computer controlled pattern forming machine
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processes for fabricating patterned composite fabric pieces require significant manpower and result in material loss and imperfections, necessitating a more automated and efficient method for loading and unloading composite fabric sheets in computer-controlled stitching and laser die cutting machines.
Innovation Solution
A loading and unloading machine with a transport platform mounted on a support frame, featuring restraining means to keep the fabric sheet taut and displacement means to move the platform between loading/unloading and stitching/cutting positions, allowing for precise positioning and minimal manual intervention in a computer-controlled stitching and laser cutting machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual loading and unloading methods are used, then labor intensity is high, but automation level is low
Solution Approach 1:
The transport platform is equipped with automatic displacement means that enables it to move itself between the loading/unloading position and the stitching/cutting position without requiring manual operation, thereby achieving self-service automation and reducing labor intensity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical loading and unloading operations with an automated displacement system that uses mechanical means (such as conveyors or robotic mechanisms) to automatically position the transport platform, substituting human labor with automated mechanical systems
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional fabric processing methods are used, then material loss is high, but manufacturing precision is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs computer-controlled stitching and laser die cutting systems that use digital programming and optical guidance to precisely follow pattern contours, replacing traditional mechanical cutting methods that require manual handling and result in higher material waste
Solution Approach 2:
The laser die cutting mechanism uses controlled thermal energy parameters to precisely cut fabric along programmed paths, allowing for high-precision pattern piece formation with minimal material loss by exactly following the digital pattern specifications
3Productivity
If continuous automated processing is implemented, then productivity increases, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules: the transport platform for sheet handling, the stitching mechanism for seam construction, and the laser die cutting system for pattern formation. Each module operates independently but coordinates through automated control, allowing continuous processing while managing complexity through functional segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The transport platform enables continuous operation by automatically presenting new fabric sheets to the stitching and cutting mechanisms without interruption, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the production process and maximizing productivity
Data Source
AI summary
A composite fabric sheet loading and unloading machine and its method of operation is described for loading and unloading a composite fabric sheet into a computer controlled stitching and laser cutting machine. The composite fabric sheet is restrained on a rectangular contour support frame of a transport platform which is displaceably and guidingly transported into the stitching and laser cutting machine where programmed pattern fabric pieces are formed in the restrained fabric sheet. The transport platform is then unloaded and transferred back to its original position where the pattern pieces and trimmings are separated and a new composite sheet is positioned and restrained on the flat top surface to repeat the operation. A transport platform is provided on opposed sides of the computer controlled stitching and die cutting machine wherein after the unloading of the transport platform another transport platform is loaded into the stitching and laser cutting machine from the opposed side.