Open Weft Needle Ribbon Loom for Pattern Variation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing needle ribbon weaving machines using closed weft needles with guide loops limit pattern variations and stability due to the need to insert and tie two weft thread loops simultaneously during shed changes.

Innovation Solution

Implementing open weft needles with forks and guide slots, allowing for alternate insertion of single weft threads of varying colors and qualities, and using auxiliary threads for securing weft thread loops, enabling increased pattern possibilities and improved mechanical quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If closed weft needles with guide loops are used to insert two weft thread loops simultaneously, then the weaving process can be completed, but the ribbon stability is impaired and pattern variations are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweaving speedVSAvoidribbon stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the simultaneous insertion of two weft thread loops into separate sequential operations. Each weft needle operates independently to insert single weft threads alternately, rather than inserting two loops simultaneously. This segmentation allows for better control and stability of each individual insertion while maintaining overall productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If closed weft needles with guide loops are used, then the weaving process is simplified, but pattern variations and design possibilities are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweaving process simplicityVSAvoidpattern variation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic elements to the otherwise simple weaving process. Individual thread lifters can be independently controlled to present different weft threads to each needle, and the weft needles can be selectively activated. This dynamic control enables pattern variations while maintaining the basic simplicity of the weaving mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of the weaving process by allowing different weft threads (varying in color, material, and properties) to be presented to the needles. The thread lifters can select from multiple weft thread sources, enabling variation in thread parameters without complicating the fundamental weaving action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If two weft thread loops are inserted simultaneously into a common shed, then the weaving cycle is completed efficiently, but the mechanical quality and stability of the ribbon deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweaving cycle efficiencyVSAvoidmechanical quality of ribbon
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the weft insertion process into separate alternating operations for each needle. Instead of inserting two loops simultaneously, each needle inserts single weft threads in alternation. This segmentation improves manufacturing precision by allowing each insertion to be properly secured before the next one occurs, while maintaining productivity through continuous alternating operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If open weft needles with forks and guide slots are used instead of closed needles, then pattern possibilities and thread selection flexibility increase, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread selection flexibilityVSAvoidneedle structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces thread lifters as intermediary devices between the weft thread sources and the open weft needles. These lifters simplify the interaction by automatically presenting the correct thread to the needle forks, reducing the complexity burden on the needle structure itself while maintaining high versatility in thread selection and pattern creation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7857012B2Method and needle webbing loom in order to weave a ribbon
Publication Date: 2010.12.28 TEXTILMA AG
  • US7857012B2 patent drawing
  • US7857012B2 patent drawing
  • US7857012B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A needle webbing machine which comprises two weft needles (2a, 2b) which work simultaneously and in opposite directions on both ribbon sides, in addition to knitting needles (28a, 28b) which are arranged on both ribbon sides. A yarn lifter (18a, 18b) which works individually and which is used to advance a weft thread (4a, 4b) to a weft needle (2a, 2b), which is open, is provided on each side of the ribbon in order to improve the production thereof.