Weave Assist Portable Device for Wig Construction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for wig making and hair weaving are inefficient, particularly in terms of accessibility and portability, as they often require styrofoam heads and client presence, leading to frustration and lack of convenience for stylists and seamstresses.

Innovation Solution

The Weave Assist is a compact, portable device with a beveled metal blade holder, spool holder, and storage box, designed for easy use and transport, featuring a retractable spool holder and magnet, allowing for efficient weaving and wig construction without the need for scissors or constant rethreading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional wig making methods using styrofoam heads are used, then wig construction can be performed, but portability and accessibility are poor requiring client presence and fixed location

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple wig making tools and components into a single portable device. The block head, needle holder, thread spool, and cutting blade are integrated into one unit that can be easily transported and used in various locations without requiring client presence or fixed workspace.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device serves multiple functions within a single unit: it holds the block head for wig construction, stores and dispenses thread through a spool holder, secures needles, and includes a cutting blade for trimming. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and styrofoam heads.

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

2Productivity

If multiple needles are threaded during wig installation, then complete installs can be achieved, but frequent stopping and rethreading causes time loss and frustration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoidrethreading time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The needle holder is pre-loaded with multiple threaded needles before the installation process begins. This preliminary preparation allows the stylist to continuously access threaded needles during wig installation without needing to stop and rethread needles, significantly reducing downtime and improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If scissors are used for needle prep and weft cutting, then cutting functions can be performed, but device complexity and portability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice simplicityVSAvoidcutting convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A small cutting blade is integrated directly into the device structure, combining the cutting function with the needle holder and block head assembly. This eliminates the need for separate scissors while maintaining cutting convenience for needle prep and weft trimming within the unified portable device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The Weave Assist enhances efficiency and convenience by providing a self-contained, lightweight solution for wig making and repairs, enabling seamless needle prep and wig construction on any flat surface, reducing frustration and increasing productivity for stylists and seamstresses.

Implementation Method 1

The simple blade is held in place by a magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11478064B2Weave assist
Publication Date: 2022.10.25 KENNEBREW COURTNEY J
  • US11478064B2 patent drawing
  • US11478064B2 patent drawing
  • US11478064B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The Weave Assist is an all inclusive flat but slighlty elevated weaving device used by stylist and seamstresses to cut out the stop and start of needle prepping. It is also used to make and correct wig units in a portable all inclusive design that has a simple blade for your cutting needs while prepping or wig making. It also has feet to help the device stay in place while working. The device the has a base, spool, spool holder, storage box, cutting blade, magnet, and half moon holder to attach block bead if not attaching directly to the base. The weave assist allows needle prep for up to 2½ clients. The lifespan of the weave assist is 3-7 years with proper use. The device can eliminate one less step in the weaving process allowing work to process without breaks and complete clients in a timely manner.