Thread Removal Device With Integrated Cutter And Grasping Legs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tools for removing threads from sewn articles, such as universal seam rippers, require separate instruments for cutting and grasping thread remnants, leading to inefficiency and inconvenience as they necessitate frequent eye and hand movement between tools.

Innovation Solution

A thread removal device with a Y-shaped thread cutter and a grasping implement integrated into a single tool, featuring a blade projection for cutting and a pair of spring steel grasping legs with contact pads for removing thread remnants, allowing for continuous focus on the sewing work without needing to switch tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a universal seam ripper is used to cut threads, then the thread cutting function is provided, but thread remnants remain and require additional removal tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread removal convenienceVSAvoidnumber of tools required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a thread cutter with a grasping implement into a single integrated tool. The thread cutter includes a blade projection for cutting threads and a grasping implement with contact pads for removing thread remnants, eliminating the need to use separate tools consecutively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated tool performs multiple functions: the blade projection cuts threads while the grasping implement simultaneously or sequentially removes thread remnants. This multi-functional design allows one tool to replace what would traditionally require two separate tools (seam ripper and tweezers).

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

2Productivity

If two separate tools (seam ripper and grasping tool) are used consecutively, then complete thread removal is achieved, but eye and hand movement between tools is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread removal efficiencyVSAvoidtime for tool switching
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the thread cutting and grasping functions into a single tool body, the inventor eliminates the time loss associated with moving between tools. The grasping implement is positioned adjacent to the blade projection, allowing continuous operation without eye and hand movement between separate instruments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If fingers are used to grasp thread remnants, then no additional tool is needed, but the sewing task requires frequent interruption and focus switching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool simplicityVSAvoidsewing task continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated tool provides a dedicated grasping implement that serves the specific purpose of removing thread remnants without requiring the sewer to use their fingers for this specific task. The contact pads on the grasping implement are designed to efficiently grasp and remove thread remnants while the sewer maintains focus on the sewing task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables efficient and convenient removal of threads by allowing seamless transition from cutting to grasping without diverting eye focus from the sewing task, reducing time and effort required for the process.

Implementation Method 1

The first and second contact pads are biased away from each other by fabricating the first and second grasping legs from resilient material, such as spring steel.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7958583B1Thread removal device
Publication Date: 2011.06.14 HEFFNER LORRI L
  • US7958583B1 patent drawing
  • US7958583B1 patent drawing
  • US7958583B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A thread removal device preferably includes a thread cutter, a grasping implement and a finger base. The thread cutter preferably includes a blade projection and a safety projection extending from a cutter base. A cover cap may be placed over the thread cutter. The grasping implement includes a first grasping leg and a second grasping leg. A first contact pad is formed on one end of first grasping leg and a second contact pad is formed on one end of the second grasping leg. The first and second contact pads are biased away from each other. The other ends of the first and second grasping legs receive cutter base. The first grasping leg, the second grasping leg and the thread cutter may be attached to each other with any suitable assembly method. The finger base may be retained over grasping implement and the thread cutter.