Imaging System for Quilting Pattern Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for capturing and manipulating images of a work piece in quilting, such as free motion and computer-controlled quilting, lack accuracy in visual representation and fail to detect pre-existing patterns, leading to errors in stitching and inability to adjust for existing designs.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that captures multiple images of a work piece, maps them to a digital representation, and detects the outline of existing designs using an image capture device connected to a sewing head with a reciprocating needle, allowing for accurate stitching and automatic adjustment around detected patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple images are captured and mapped to create a digital representation of the work piece, then measurement precision and manufacturing precision are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for image capture devices, mapping algorithms, and digital representation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy (virtual representation) of the physical work piece by capturing multiple images and mapping them to a digital coordinate system. This digital copy allows for precise measurement and planning without physically manipulating the actual work piece, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through software-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and physical measurement methods with an automated image capture and digital mapping system. The image capture device and processing algorithms substitute for human eyes and manual measurement tools, providing more precise and consistent visual representation accuracy.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If edge detection algorithms are used to identify existing patterns in the digital representation, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for sophisticated image processing algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces edge detection algorithms as an intermediary between the captured image data and the final pattern recognition. These algorithms process the raw image data to highlight boundaries and transitions, making existing patterns more visible and easier to detect automatically, thereby improving detection capability while managing algorithm complexity through established image processing techniques.
3Manufacturing precision
If the system automatically detects and adjusts stitching paths around existing patterns, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to the additional processing time required for detection and adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs pattern detection and stitching path planning in advance, before the actual quilting process begins. By pre-processing the image data and calculating optimal stitch paths that avoid existing patterns, the system eliminates the need for real-time adjustments during stitching, thereby maintaining high manufacturing precision while minimizing the impact on productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method, apparatus, and computer-readable medium for imaging. The method includes capturing, by a device, a plurality of images of a work piece and mapping, by the device, the plurality of images of the work piece to a digital representation of the work piece. The method further includes detecting, by the device, an outline of an existing design within the digital representation of the work piece, wherein the device comprises an image capture device operably connected to a sewing head having a reciprocating needle, the reciprocating needle defining a cycle path, the image capture device being adjacent to a portion of the cycle path.