Sewing Machine Threading Mechanism Retraction for Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sewing machines have a threading mechanism that obstructs the visibility of the needle area during sewing, as the holding member is positioned in front of the needle area, potentially hindering the user's view and making it difficult to perform tasks like quilting sewing efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A sewing machine with a threading mechanism and a movement mechanism that allows the holding member to move between a lowermost position for threading and a retracted position for improved visibility, using a single motor to drive both mechanisms, ensuring the holding member is out of the user's line of sight during normal operation, thus enhancing visibility and operational space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the holding member is positioned diagonally above and on the near side of the sewing needle for threading operations, then the upper thread can be cut at the correct position to prevent slipping out of the eye, but the visibility of the needle area deteriorates during sewing
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member is designed to be movable between a retracted position and a lowered position. During sewing operations, it is retracted to improve visibility of the needle area. During threading operations, it is lowered to the diagonal position above the needle to enable accurate thread cutting. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction between visibility and cutting accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding member is positioned in advance to the diagonal location above the needle before threading begins, ensuring the upper thread is cut at the correct position to prevent slipping out. After threading is complete, it is retracted to restore visibility. This preliminary positioning ensures reliable thread cutting without permanently obstructing the view.
2Extent of automation
If the holding member is fixed at a position for automatic threading, then threading operation is automated, but the user's line of sight to the needle area is blocked during sewing
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member transitions from a fixed automatic threading position to a retracted position during sewing operations. The movement mechanism automatically repositions the holding member based on the operational phase, maintaining automation benefits while eliminating visual obstruction during sewing.
3Reliability
If the holding member is positioned to protrude forward for threading, then thread end can be clamped and held effectively, but operational space and user access to needle area are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member is retracted during sewing operations to restore operational space and user access to the needle area. It is only extended to the forward position when threading operations require thread clamping and holding, thus maintaining reliability only when needed while preserving workspace during sewing.
Data Source
AI summary
A sewing machine includes a threading mechanism, a holding member, and a movement mechanism. The threading mechanism is configured to move a hook between a standby position and an operative position. The holding member includes a cutting blade and a clamping portion. The cutting blade is configured to cut an upper thread. The clamping portion is configured to clamp and hold a thread end of the cut upper thread. The movement mechanism is configured to move the holding member to a first position and a second position. The first direction is a direction from the standby position to the operative position. The second position is a position on a second direction side with respect to the first position. The second direction is a direction opposite to the first direction.