Switchable Cam Presser Foot Vertical Drive for Embroidery Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing presser foot devices for sewing machines, particularly in embroidery machines, are inflexible and can hinder various sewing and embroidery methods, such as couching embroidery and ruler work, due to their fixed vertical drive patterns, which can cause issues with fabric movement and contact with the presser foot.

Innovation Solution

A presser foot vertical drive device with a configuration that includes a presser foot drive cam, a cam follower, and a link to transmit the vertical drive, along with a switching unit that allows selection of different drive cams for varying embroidery methods, enabling manual or automatic operation to adjust the vertical drive pattern.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fixed presser foot vertical drive mechanism is used, then the stitch formation is reliable, but the adaptability to different embroidery methods is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestitch formation reliabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different embroidery methods
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The presser foot vertical drive mechanism is changed from a fixed cam to a switchable cam system where different cams can be selected based on the embroidery method. The switching unit allows the operator to change the cam configuration dynamically, enabling the same mechanism to adapt to different embroidery techniques while maintaining reliable stitch formation through proper cam selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The presser foot vertical drive device is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating switchable cams for different embroidery methods (standard embroidery, couching embroidery, ruler work). This universal design allows a single device to handle various sewing and embroidery techniques by selecting the appropriate cam configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the presser foot is constantly urging the fabric downward, then the fabric stability during stitching is improved, but the fabric movement between stitches is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefabric stability during stitchingVSAvoidfabric movement between stitches
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The presser foot vertical drive cam is designed to create periodic action where the presser foot applies downward force during stitching and releases or reduces force during fabric movement. This periodic variation in pressing force allows the fabric to be stable during needle penetration while enabling smooth movement between stitch positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Manufacturing precision

If the presser foot vertical drive stroke is adjusted for thick fabrics, then the stitch quality on thick fabrics is improved, but the suitability for thin fabrics and other embroidery methods deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestitch quality on thick fabricsVSAvoidsuitability for different fabric types and methods
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of a fixed presser foot drive stroke, the system uses switchable cams that provide different vertical drive patterns. This dynamic configuration allows the presser foot stroke to be adjusted according to the fabric type and embroidery method being used, optimizing stitch quality for thick fabrics when needed while maintaining suitability for thin fabrics and other methods through alternative cam selections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 allows for flexible adjustment of the presser foot's vertical drive pattern, supporting various sewing and embroidery methods by ensuring smooth fabric movement and maintaining contact with the presser foot, enhancing the reliability and safety of the embroidery process.

Implementation Method 1

a presser foot drive cam (15) fixed to the upper shaft (12), a cam follower (40) configured to be vertically driven in contact with the presser foot drive cam (15)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentUS11255033B2Presser foot vertical drive device and sewing machine including the same
Publication Date: 2022.02.22 JANOME CORP
  • US11255033B2 patent drawing
  • US11255033B2 patent drawing
  • US11255033B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A presser foot vertical drive device includes an upper shaft configured to vertically drive a needle, a presser foot drive cam fixed to the upper shaft, a presser foot urged downward over a needle plate, a cam follower configured to be vertically driven in contact with the presser foot drive cam, and a link configured to transmit the vertical drive of the cam follower to the presser foot. The presser foot drive cam includes a plurality of drive cams having cam surfaces for different presser foot vertical drive patterns. The cam follower includes a switching unit for selection of one drive cam from the presser foot drive cam.