Sewing Machine Thread Holder with Resistance Applier

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sewing machines face issues with securely holding the needle thread during the threading process, leading to potential disengagement and failure in the threading operation due to the complexity of the thread holder configuration and increased susceptibility to thread slacking.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a passage resistance applier, positioned downstream of the thread holder and upstream of the thread cutter, applies a predetermined resistance to the needle thread, ensuring it is securely clamped between the guide plate and holding plate, thereby preventing disengagement and simplifying the threading process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the presser plate is opened relative to the plate support to create space for thread insertion, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased susceptibility to thread disengagement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of thread insertionVSAvoidthread holding reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The passage resistance applier is positioned upstream of the thread holder to apply resistance to the needle thread before it reaches the thread holder. This preliminary action ensures that the thread is properly tensioned and positioned as it approaches the clamping mechanism, facilitating easier insertion while maintaining reliable holding through the subsequent engagement with the guide plate and holding plate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the needle thread is inserted far enough into the space between plate support and presser plate to reach radial inner peripheral side, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread clamping reliabilityVSAvoidthread holder configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thread holding function is segmented into distinct components: the guide plate for guiding the thread, the holding plate for clamping the thread, and the passage resistance applier for applying tension. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, achieving reliable thread holding without requiring a single complex integrated structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The passage resistance applier acts as an intermediary element between the thread source and the thread holder. It applies a predetermined amount of resistance to the needle thread, ensuring proper tension and positioning before the thread reaches the clamping mechanism, thereby simplifying the overall configuration while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the thread holder is lowered to clamp the needle thread, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the threading operation complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread engagement reliabilityVSAvoidthreading operation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The passage resistance applier is positioned in the threading path upstream of the thread holder to apply resistance to the needle thread before it reaches the thread holder. This preliminary action ensures that the thread is properly tensioned and positioned as it approaches the clamping mechanism, facilitating easier insertion while maintaining reliable holding through the subsequent engagement with the guide plate and holding plate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution ensures reliable engagement and holding of the needle thread, reducing the likelihood of disengagement and enhancing the success rate of the threading operation while maintaining a simpler and more compact machine configuration.

Implementation Method 1

a coil spring that bias the presser plate upward toward the plate support

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a passage resistance applier that is provided downstream relative to the thread holder provided on the threading path and upstream relative to the thread cutter and that applies a predetermined amount of resistance on the needle thread

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8215249B2Sewing machine
Publication Date: 2012.07.10 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US8215249B2 patent drawing
  • US8215249B2 patent drawing
  • US8215249B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sewing machine having a threading path defined at a sewing machine head and being engaged with a needle thread to guide the needle thread in threading a sewing needle; a thread holder provided on the threading path and that includes a thread holding plate receiving the needle thread being introduced from outer to inner peripheral side of the thread holder to clamp the needle thread; a thread cutter provided on a faceplate covering the head and that cuts off a needle thread tip sequentially engaged with the threading path; a threader unit that passes the needle thread through a needle eye; and a passage resistance applier provided downstream relative to the thread holder and upstream relative to the thread cutter and that applies a predetermined amount of resistance on the needle thread passing therethrough to introduce the needle thread to the inner peripheral side of the needle holding plate.