Seam inspection device

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Solution Overview

Problem

In sewing factories, seam inspection is typically done after the entire sewing process is completed, leading to discarded products and reduced productivity, as abnormalities in seams are only detected at the end, rather than during the process, allowing for rework.

Innovation Solution

A seam inspection device comprising an imaging device that captures images of the sewing object and a processing device that detects abnormalities in real-time, allowing for immediate correction during the sewing process, thereby preventing productivity loss.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If seam inspection is performed after the entire sewing process is completed, then inspection thoroughness is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to discarded products and inability to perform rework

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection thoroughnessVSAvoidproductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device captures images of the sewing object at multiple positions (first position during sewing, second position after sewing) to detect abnormalities before the sewing process is fully completed. This preliminary detection enables rework while the object is still in the sewing process, preventing productivity loss from discarded products.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The processing device analyzes images captured during the sewing process and provides feedback about seam abnormalities. This feedback mechanism allows the sewing process to be adjusted or restarted if abnormalities are detected, enabling continuous improvement and reducing waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If seam inspection is performed in the middle of the sewing process using imaging device, then productivity is improved by enabling rework, but inspection precision may worsen due to partial imaging

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoidinspection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary imaging at a first position during the sewing process to detect abnormalities early. This is complemented by additional imaging at a second position after sewing is completed, ensuring comprehensive inspection while maintaining productivity benefits from early detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The imaging device continuously or repeatedly captures images at different positions and timings (during and after sewing). This continuous imaging approach ensures that no abnormality is missed while maintaining the productivity advantage of early detection and rework capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS10947663B2Seam inspection device
Publication Date: 2021.03.16 JUKI CORP
  • US10947663B2 patent drawing
  • US10947663B2 patent drawing
  • US10947663B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A seam inspection device includes an imaging device and a processing device. The imaging device shoots a sewing object supported by a throat plate of a sewing machine and having seams formed therein. And the processing device detects an abnormality of the seam based on an image of the sewing object acquired by the imaging device.