Sewing Machine Composite Image Overlay for Embroidery Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sewing machines cannot effectively check the positioning of an embroidery pattern on a sewing object when the pattern's size exceeds the image capture area of the image capture device, limiting user verification of intended positioning.
Innovation Solution
A sewing machine with a needle bar, needle plate, image capture device, marker data generation, and composite image data generation capabilities, allowing users to generate and display a composite image with a setting marker indicating the pattern's position and angle relative to the sewing object, enabling accurate positioning verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the embroidery pattern size exceeds the image capture area, then the pattern can be displayed on the screen, but the user cannot verify the positioning accuracy of the pattern on the sewing object
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the verification process into two segments: (1) capture the actual sewing object within the limited image capture area, and (2) generate a virtual composite image that extends beyond the capture area by superimposing the embroidery pattern and setting marker. This segmentation allows verification of positioning accuracy even when the pattern exceeds the physical capture area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a setting marker as an intermediary element that is superimposed on the captured image. This marker serves as a reference indicator showing the intended position and orientation of the embroidery pattern, enabling the user to verify positioning accuracy without needing to capture the entire pattern area.
2Device complexity
If a fixed image capture area is used, then the device structure remains simple, but embroidery patterns larger than the capture area cannot be properly positioned or verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional physical capture area limitation to a three-dimensional solution by adding the virtual dimension through composite image generation. The setting marker and embroidery pattern are superimposed on the captured image plane, creating a virtual extension that overcomes the physical capture area constraint without modifying the hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the sewing object scene by generating a composite image that combines the captured image data with the embroidery pattern and setting marker. This virtual copy allows the user to verify positioning accuracy without needing to physically capture or display the entire pattern area.
3Ease of operation
If the user relies solely on the captured image without composite overlay, then the display is simple, but the user cannot determine the intended pattern position and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual differentiation through color and graphical elements to distinguish between the captured image, the setting marker, and the embroidery pattern in the composite image. This visual coding allows the user to easily identify positioning information without complicating the display interface, maintaining ease of operation while preventing information loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A sewing machine includes a needle bar to a lower end of which a needle can be attached, a needle plate in which a needle hole is provided, an image capture device that generates, as captured image data, data that describe a captured image of a sewing object being positioned between the needle bar and the needle plate, a marker data generation device that generates, as marker data, data that describe a setting marker, the setting marker indicating a pattern position and a pattern angle, a composite image data generation device that generates, as composite image data, data that describe a composite image based on the captured image data and the marker data, and a display control device that, based on the composite image data, causes the composite image to be displayed on a screen.