Linking Machine Feed Guide for Automatic Fabric Edge Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current linking machines are slow, expensive, and require skilled operators for precise edge alignment, leading to inefficiencies and operator fatigue due to the lack of automatic edge alignment capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A linking machine equipped with a feed guide and a camera system that uses a fluorescent guide thread and ultraviolet lighting to automatically align fabric edges, allowing for precise and consistent stitching without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual linking operation is used, then operator can perform stitching, but productivity is low and operator fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical stitching operations with an automated linking machine that uses a needle mechanism driven by a motor. The machine automatically performs the linking operation without requiring skilled manual dexterity, thereby increasing productivity while reducing operator fatigue and the need for highly skilled labor.
Solution Approach 2:
The linking machine is designed to autonomously perform the linking operation once fabric edges are positioned in the guide. The machine self-regulates the stitching process through automated needle movement and thread linking, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention and reducing operational complexity for the user.
2Productivity
If automatic linking machine is used, then productivity increases, but edge alignment precision decreases without proper guide
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a guide mechanism that pre-positions and aligns fabric edges before they reach the linking needle. This preliminary alignment action ensures that when the automated linking process begins, the fabric edges are already correctly positioned, maintaining high precision without requiring skilled manual alignment during the stitching operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide acts as an intermediary device between the fabric supply and the linking needle. It mediates the alignment process by providing a structured pathway that automatically positions fabric edges relative to each other and to the needle, ensuring precise alignment is achieved as part of the automated process rather than requiring manual skill.
3Manufacturing precision
If skilled operator is used, then linking accuracy improves, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for skilled manual operation with an automated mechanical system. The linking machine performs accurate stitching through programmed needle movements and automated thread management, eliminating the need for highly skilled operators and thereby reducing labor costs while maintaining or improving linking accuracy through consistent mechanical precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated linking machine performs all linking operations autonomously without requiring skilled manual intervention. The system self-regulates thread tension, needle positioning, and stitching depth through built-in mechanisms, thereby eliminating the need to pay skilled operators while maintaining consistent accuracy through programmed precision rather than human skill.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual edge alignment is used, then flexibility exists, but repeatability and consistency of quality are not guaranteed
Solution Approach 1:
The guide mechanism performs preliminary alignment of fabric edges in a consistent, repeatable manner for every linking operation. By establishing a standardized alignment process that is identical with each use, the system ensures high reliability and quality consistency while still allowing flexibility in fabric type through adjustable guide components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces variable manual alignment with a consistent mechanical guiding system. The automated guide provides uniform edge positioning for every stitching operation, eliminating the variability introduced by human skill levels and ensuring reliable quality consistency. The mechanical system can be adjusted for different fabrics while maintaining repeatable precision through programmed positioning.
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
The solution significantly increases productivity, reduces operator fatigue, and improves the quality of the linking process by enabling faster, more accurate, and cost-effective stitching, making the operation simpler and safer for workers.
Implementation Method 1
a camera system that uses a fluorescent guide thread and ultraviolet lighting to automatically align fabric edges
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A linking machine (104) comprising a fixed unit comprising a support frame (108), a mobile unit (200) comprising a device for advancing or transporting (116) the fabric along a longitudinal direction (Y-Y), a device for positioning (120) a needle (110) along a transverse direction (X-X), perpendicular to said longitudinal direction (Y-Y) and coplanar with the fabric, an actuator device (124) of said needle (110) in a vertical direction (Z-Z), perpendicular to said longitudinal (Y-Y) and transverse (X-X) directions, for performing the linking. Advantageously, the linking machine (104) comprises a feed guide (20) for two fabrics to be joined, such as a neck (1,10), provided with a separating cotton (3) and a knitted fabric (6), positioned upstream of said needle (110) in the longitudinal direction (Y-Y). The feed guide (20) comprising a first stop (21) suitable to constitute an abutment and a positioning for said separating cotton (3) of the neck (1,10), said first stop (21) being adjustable in position along said transversal direction (X-X) so as to be able to adjust a distance (a) of the seam line (13) from the inner edge of the neck (5).