Pre-twisted Yarns for Distinct Tufting Patterns

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tufting technologies fail to impart a predetermined twist to multiple yarns directed through a single needle, resulting in randomization and lack of distinguishability between yarns after tufting, which limits aesthetic and design possibilities in carpet production.

Innovation Solution

A method of tufting that involves twisting multiple yarns together in a predetermined manner, with a twist rate ranging from one twist per twenty inches to six twists per inch, to ensure distinctiveness and aesthetic effects in carpet design, using techniques such as cabling or twisting to achieve a consistent twist per inch.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If multiple yarns are directed through a single needle without predetermined twist, then the tufting process is simple, but the yarns become randomized and indistinguishable after tufting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveyarn distinguishabilityVSAvoidtwisting mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by twisting multiple yarns together in a predetermined manner before they are directed through the single needle. This pre-twisting ensures that the yarns maintain their relative positions and distinguishability throughout the tufting process, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and device complexity by preparing the yarns in advance rather than requiring complex real-time control during tufting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of yarn twist by specifying a predetermined twist rate (e.g., one twist per twenty inches to six twists per inch) that is applied to multiple yarns before tufting. This parameter change ensures the yarns remain distinguishable while maintaining simplicity in the tufting process, as the twist is already established before the yarns enter the needle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple yarns are twisted together with high twist rate, then yarn distinctiveness is maintained, but the yarns may become too tightly bound and lose individual characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveyarn distinctivenessVSAvoidloss of yarn individuality
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent carefully selects and controls the twist rate parameter, specifying ranges such as one twist per twenty inches to six twists per inch. This optimized parameter range ensures that the yarns are twisted enough to maintain their relative positions and distinguishability, but not so tightly that they lose their individual characteristics. The predetermined twist rate balances both requirements effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10676849B2Multiple twisted yarns directed through a single needle of a tufting machine
Publication Date: 2020.06.09 ENGINEERED FLOORS LLC
  • US10676849B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of tufting carpet using multiple yarns directed through at least one single needle, if not a plurality of such situations, whereby the needles tuft a carpet having unique specifications. Specifically, the yarns are pre-twisted together, and can be solution dyed and/or of have different twist characteristics, such as selected from the group of high twist, standard twist, low twist, no twist, flat yarns and/or pre-twisted flat yarns.