U.S. patent application number 09/808148 was filed with the patent office on 2001-11-08 for sewing material holding device and sewing machine having the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA. Invention is credited to Wakasugi, Kazuhisa.
Application Number | 20010037755 09/808148 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 18591256 |
Filed Date | 2001-11-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010037755 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wakasugi, Kazuhisa |
November 8, 2001 |
Sewing material holding device and sewing machine having the
same
Abstract
A sewing material holding device 2 in a sewing machine includes
a first arm device 3R and a second arm device 3L and makes it
possible to hold a sewing material 1 temporarily. At least one of
the first arm device 3R and the second arm device 3L has a main arm
32 protruding in a direction, a sub arm 33 protruding along the
main arm 32 and capable of cooperating with the main arm 32 to hold
the material, a pressure contact device 90 for establishing a
pressure contact between a part of a protrusion edge 33f of the sub
arm 33 with a protrusion edge 32f of the main arm 32 while defining
a clearance 92 between a base end portion 32r of the main arm 32
and a base end portion 33r of the sub arm 33, the pressure contact
between making it possible to hold the material temporarily, and a
clearance reduction device 91 for enhancing a degree of holding the
material by engaging one of the main arm 32 and the sub arm 33 to
the other.
Inventors: |
Wakasugi, Kazuhisa;
(Obu-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OBLON SPIVAK MCCLELLAND MAIER & NEUSTADT PC
FOURTH FLOOR
1755 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY
ARLINGTON
VA
22202
US
|
Assignee: |
AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI
KAISHA
1, Asahi-machi 2-chome
Kariya-shi
JP
|
Family ID: |
18591256 |
Appl. No.: |
09/808148 |
Filed: |
March 15, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
112/470.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D05B 39/00 20130101;
D05C 9/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
112/470.14 |
International
Class: |
D05B 039/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 15, 2000 |
JP |
2000-072925 |
Claims
What we claim is:
1. A sewing machine comprising: a sewing machine main body
including a sewing mechanism; and a material holding device mounted
on the sewing main body and having a first arm device and a second
arm device between which a material may be detachably held for
being sewn by the sewing mechanism, at least one of the first arm
device and the second arm device of the holding device including a
main arm projecting in a direction, a sub arm projecting along the
main arm and capable of cooperating with the main arm to hold the
material, a pressure contact part configured and adapted to
establish pressure contact between a part of a distal end of the
sub arm with a distal end of the main arm while defining a
clearance between a base end portion of the main arm and a base end
portion of the sub arm, and a clearance reduction device configured
and adapted to enhance a degree of holding the material by engaging
the main and sub arms to each other.
2. A sewing machine in accordance with claim 1, wherein at least
one of the first arm device and the second arm device of the
material holding device includes a sewing material guide portion
adapted and configured for guiding material between the main arm
and the sub arm.
3. A sewing machine in accordance with claim 1, wherein the
material holding device includes a plate guide holding portion
extending in a direction to intersect with the direction along
which the main arm projects, at least one of the first arm device
and the second arm device being slidably mounted on the long guide
holding portion such that a clearance between the first arm device
and the second arm device may be varied.
4. A material holding device mounted on a sewing machine
comprising: a first arm device and a second arm device between
which a material may be detachably held for being sewn by a sewing
mechanism, at least one of the first arm device and the second arm
device of the holding device including a main area projecting in a
direction, a pressure contact part configured and adapted to
establish pressure contact between a part of a distal end of the
sub arm with a distal end of the main arm while defining a
clearance between a base end portion of the main arm and a base end
portion of the sub arm, and a clearance reduction device configured
and adapted to enhance a degree of holding the material by engaging
the main and sub arms to each other.
5. A sewing machine comprising: a sewing machine main body
including a sewing mechanism; and a material holding device mounted
on the sewing main body and having a first arm device and a second
arm device between which a material may be detachably held for
being sewn by the sewing mechanism, at least one of the first arm
device and the second arm device of the holding device including a
main arm projecting in a direction, a sub arm projecting along the
main arm and capable of cooperating with the main arm to hold the
material, pressure contact means for establishing pressure contact
between a part of a distal end of the sub arm with a distal end of
the main arm while defining a clearance between a base end portion
of the main arm and a base end portion of the sub arm, and
clearance reduction means for enhancing a degree of holding the
material by engaging the main and sub arms to each other.
6. A material holding device mounted on a sewing machine
comprising: a first arm device and a second arm device between
which a material may be detachably held for being sewn by a sewing
mechanism, at least one of the first arm device and the second arm
device of the holding device including a main area projecting in a
direction, pressure contact means for establishing pressure contact
between a part of a distal end of the sub arm with a distal end of
the main arm while defining a clearance between a base end portion
of the main arm and a base end portion of the sub arm, and
clearance reduction means for enhancing a degree of holding the
material by engaging the main and sub arms to each other.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is based on Japanese patent
application no. 2000-072925, filed on Mar. 15, 2000, which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to a sewing material supporting
device, and a sewing machine having the same.
[0004] 2. Discussion of the Background
[0005] Japanese Patent Laid-open Publication No. 2000-42276
discloses a sewing material holding device. This sewing material
holding device includes a stationary main arm which extends in one
direction, a movable auxiliary arm pivoted to the main arm and
extending in the one direction, an urging member which urges the
movable auxiliary arm for closing the same and an engaging portion
provided on the movable auxiliary arm and maintaining, when
operated, an open condition of the movable auxiliary arm. In this
sewing material holding device, before a sewing material is held
between the main arm and the movable auxiliary arm, a wide gap or
clearance is defined therebetween. And when the engaging portion is
released, the urging member causes the movable auxiliary arm to
rotate to close the gap, thereby clamping or holding the sewing
material between the arms.
[0006] Japanese Patent Laid-open Print No. Hei. 7(1995)-305257
discloses a rectangular tambour on which a fabric to be embroidered
is mounted is tensioned. The mounted condition of the fabric on the
tambour is maintained by a pair of clamp devices.
[0007] Japanese Patent Laid-open Print No. Hei.8(1996)-41774
discloses a rectangular tambour on which a sewing material is
mounted in tension and which has a pair of opposed recesses. For
holding the sewing material on the tambour, another frame is used
whose projections fit into the recesses of the tambour via the
sewing material.
[0008] In Japanese Patent Laid-open Publication No. 2000-42276, for
clamping the sewing material between the main arm and the movable
auxiliary arm, the movable auxiliary arm has to be rotated by the
urging force of the urging member, toward the main arm by releasing
the engaging portion. Due to the fact that a large gap is formed
between the main arm and the movable auxiliary arm before the
clamping is done, the user has to hold the sewing material until
completion of the clamping. Such temporary holding of the sewing
material is very cumbersome.
[0009] In Japanese Patent Laid-open Print No. Hei. 7(1995)-305257,
the fabric which is in tension on the tambour is clamped by the
clamp devices. Thus, it is also very cumbersome to hold the fabric
until the clamping is completed.
[0010] In Japanese Patent Laid-open Print No. Hei.8(1996)-41774,
holding the sewing material on the tambour is done by
male-and-female engagement between the tambour and the frame. Until
such engagement is completed, the sewing material has to be held on
the tambour temporally until the male-and-female engagement is
completed.
[0011] A need exists to provide, for overcoming the aforementioned
problems, a sewing material holding device and/or a sewing machine
having such a holding device.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention is to
provide a sewing machine which comprises a sewing machine main body
including a sewing mechanism, and a material holding device mounted
on the sewing main body and having a first arm device and a second
arm device between which a material is detachably held for being
sewn by the sewing mechanism. At least one of the first arm device
and the second arm device of the holding device includes a main arm
protruding in a direction. A sub arm protrudes along the main arm
and is capable of cooperating with the main arm to hold the
material. A pressure contact part establishes pressure contact
between a part of a protrusion edge of the sub arm with a
protrusion edge of the main arm with defining a clearance between a
base end portion of the main arm and a base end portion of the sub
arm, the pressure contact between making it possible to hold the
material temporarily. A clearance reduction device enhances a
degree of holding the material by engaging one of the main and sub
arms to the other.
[0013] A second aspect of the present invention is to provided a
sewing machine of the first aspect, wherein at least of at least
one of the first arm device and the second arm device of the
material holding device includes a sewing material guide portion
for guiding and putting the material between the main arm and the
sub arm.
[0014] A third aspect of the present invention is to provide a
sewing machine of any one of the first aspect and the second
aspect, wherein the material holding device includes a long plate
guide holding portion extending is a direction of intersect with
the direction along which the main arm extends, at least one of the
first arm device and the second arm device being slidably mounted
on the long plate guide holding portion such that a clearance
between the first arm device and the second arm device is made
continually variable.
[0015] A fourth aspect of the present invention is to provide a
material holding device mounted on a sewing machine, which
comprises a first arm device and a second arm device between which
a material is detachably held for being sewn by a sewing mechanism
of the sewing machine, at least one of the first arm device and the
second arm device of the holding device including a main arm
protruding in a direction. A sub arm protrudes along the main arm
and is capable of being coping with the main arm to hold the
material. A pressure contact part establishes pressure contact
between a part of a protrusion edge of the sub arm with a
protrusion edge of the main arm with defining a clearance between a
base end portion of the main arm and a base end portion of the sub
arm, the pressure contact making it possible to hold the material
temporarily. A clearance reduction device enhances a degree of
holding of the material by engaging one of the main and sub arms to
the other.
[0016] In accordance with the present invention the pressure
contact part establishes pressure contact between the protrusion
edge of the sub arm and the protrusion edge of the main arm while a
clearance is defined between the base end of the main arm and the
base end of the sub arm. Such pressure contact makes it possible to
temporarily hold the sewing material. Since the sewing material is
temporarily held by the pressure contact, the operator does not
need to hold the sewing material.
[0017] In addition, the clearance makes the contact area between
the main arm and the sub arm smaller, which makes it possible to
move the sewing material, along the clearance defined between the
main and sub arms to the formal holding position. Upon completion
of the movement or transfer of the sewing material to its formal
holding position, the clearance reduction device reduces the
clearance, resulting in the main and sub arms approaching one
another, thereby increasing the degree for holding the sewing
material. Thus, holding or clamping the sewing material at the
formal holding position is established.
[0018] The sewing material in accordance with the present invention
and the holding device in accordance with the present invention can
employ the following concepts. At least one of the first and second
arm devices can have a guide portion which makes it possible to
feed the sewing material between the main and the sub arms. Such a
guide portion can form a slant surface which constitutes the
clearance between the main and sub arms. The guide portion can be
positioned at least at one of the protrusion edges of the
respective main and sub arms.
[0019] At least one of the opposed holding surfaces of the
respective main and sub arms can have high frictional resistance
for enhancing the temporary and formal holding abilities. In this
case at least one of the opposed holding surfaces of the respective
main and sub arms is preferably has a high frictional property,
i.e., it is formed of a high friction coefficient material such as
rubber or is formed to have fine concave portions (or convex
portions) such as a knurled surface for ensuring the holding of the
sewing material.
[0020] At least one of the opposed holding surfaces of the
respective main and sub arms preferably has a feature for enhancing
the temporary and formal holding ability of the sewing material.
Such a feature may be a convex or concave surface structure.
[0021] The material holding device can be incorporated into the
sewing machine upon its assembly or can be added later to a
commercial sewing machine. Whether or not the sewing machine has an
embroidering function is irrelevant.
[0022] At least one of the first arm device and the second arm
device preferably has a contact avoiding device which prevents
contact between the clearance reduction part and the sewing
material. As such a contact avoid means, a projection acting as a
stopper is available. The contact avoiding device can be on at
least one of the main and sub arms.
[0023] In the sewing machine in accordance with the present
invention, the sewing mechanism can be of a well-known structure so
long as the sewing material can be sewn while clamped or held
between the first and second arm devices. Whether or not the sewing
mechanism has an embroidering function is not important. Any sewing
machine, whether it is designed for industrial use or domestic use,
is available.
[0024] The first and second arm devices are preferred to be
independent from each other and be placed in parallel to each
other.
[0025] The material holding device can be a long guide holding
portion which extends across the protruding direction of the main
arm and on which at least one of the first arm device and the
second arm device are slidably mounted so that the distance between
the first arm device and the second arm device is made variable in
a stepless fashion. In this case, only one of the first arm device
and the second arm device is movable, or both are movable.
[0026] If one of the first arm device and the second arm device is
made movable, the long guide holding portion is preferred to have
an arm position indicator for recognizing the frequently used arm
device. Employing such a concept, positioning one of the first and
second arm devices can be done quickly. Preferably, the arm
position indicator is in the form of at least one of a visible
indication which makes it possible to recognize the frequently used
slide position with the naked eye, audible indication which makes
it possible to recognize the frequently used slide position by the
ear, and touch indication which makes it possible to recognize the
frequently used slide position by touch. Of course, at least two of
these three forms can be employed, i.e., both visible indication
and audible indication, both audible indication and touch
indication, or both visible indication and touch indication.
[0027] In the case where at least one of the first and second arm
devices is movable, the movable distance can be set to be 1/4-5
times, or 1/3-3 times, the length of the movable arm device.
However, such dimensions are not limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] A more complete appreciation of the invention and other
advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes
better understood by reference to the following detailed
description when considered in connection with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0029] FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a substantial part of a holding
device for sewing material according to a first embodiment of the
present invention.
[0030] FIG. 2 shows an exploded perspective view of a part of the
substantial part shown in FIG. 1.
[0031] FIG. 3 shows a cross-section view of a vicinity of a first
arm of the sewing material holding device according to the first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 4 shows a plan view of the vicinity of the first arm of
the sewing material holding device, when in its initial state,
according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 5 shows a plan view of the vicinity of the first arm of
the sewing material holding device, when in its clamping state,
according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 6 shows a lateral view of the vicinity of the first arm
of the sewing material holding device according to the first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a vicinity of a
device for discrimination of arm position of the sewing material
holding device according to the first embodiment of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a configuration for
securing the first and second arms devices to a holding guide
portion in the sewing material holding device according to the
first embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view illustrating how sewing
material is clamped by the sewing material holding device according
to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a configuration for
securing first and second arm devices to a holding guide portion in
the sewing material holding device according to a second embodiment
of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a configuration for
securing first and second arm devices to a holding guide portion in
the sewing material holding device according to a third embodiment
of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of sewing machine.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0041] [FIRST EMBODIMENT]
[0042] Herein below, a first embodiment of the present invention
will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8 inclusive.
[0043] FIG. 1 shows a main part of a sewing material holding device
2. The holding device 2 can be mounted on a sewing machine during
its assembly or added to a commercially available sewing machine.
As shown in FIG. 1, the holding device 2 has a movable first arm
device 3R, a movable second arm device 3L, and a long guide holding
portion 5 attaching the holding device 2. The first arm device 3R
extends along a direction Y1 and is made to detachably hold or
clamp a part of a sewing material 1. The second arm device 3L
extends along the direction Y1 and is made to detachably hold or
clamp a part of a sewing material 1.
[0044] The long guide holding portion 5 is in the form of a rail
and extends along a direction (E.g., orthogonal direction) X (X1/X2
direction) orthogonal to the extension direction of the first arm
device 3R and the second arm device 3L. By the way, in this
specification the extension direction of the first arm device is
defined as Y1 direction, and the intersecting direction (orthogonal
direction) to the extension direction of first arm device 3R and
the second arm device 3L is defined as the X direction (X1/X2
direction).
[0045] A guide rail 60 is positioned is parallel with the long
guide holding portion 5. The guide rail 60 extends horizontally and
along the direction X (X1/X2 direction). The guide rail 60 is
mounted and driven to be able to move back and forward in the Y
direction (Y1/Y2 direction) by a drive structure (which is driven
by a motor, not shown) on the sewing machine shown in FIG. 12. The
guide rail 60 is constructed to be able to stop at optional
positions along Y direction.
[0046] A movable portion 61 is mounted on the guide rail and is
connected with an X drive structure (not shown) on the sewing
machine. The X drive structure has a endless timing belt connected
with the movable portion 61 and a source of the X drive (generally
a motor being used) to actuate the timing belt. By driving the
source for drive at the X drive structure, the timing belt will
revolve and the movable portion 61 can move on the guide rail 60
along the X direction (X1/X2 direction). The movable portion 61 is
able to stop at an optional position along the X direction. The
long guide holding portion 5 is mounted to be unitary with the
movable portion 61. Therefore if the movable portion 61 moves along
the X direction (X1/X2 directions) the long guide holding portion 5
also moves along the X direction.
[0047] The shape of a horizontal section of the long guide holding
portion 5 is a long rectangular shape elongated in the Y direction.
As shown in FIG. 1, the long guide holding portion 5 has the first
long guide portion 51 extended in the X1 direction and the second
long guide holding portion 52 extended in the X2 direction.
Consequently the first long guide holding portion 51 and the second
long guide holding portion 52 are positioned mutually back to
back.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 1, a slot 53 extends along the length of
the first long guide holding portion 51. The slot 53 goes through
the thickness of the first long guide holding portion, to define a
top surface aperture 53a and bottom surface aperture 53c. These
apertures 53a and 53c extend along the length of the long guide
portion 51.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 2, on the front surface of 51a visible to
an operator, a plurality of marks 55 are provided at a
predetermined spacing. The marks 55 are used to discriminate the
position of first arm device 3R. On the back surface 51b of the
first long guide holding portion 51 multiple detents are provided
at the predetermined spacings. Each detent 56 is a triangular
groove in cross section, which has right and left planar surfaces
56n (like an isosceles triangle). The detents 56 insure that the
first arm device 3R are correctly positioned, and functional to
also discriminate a position of a second arm.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, the first arm device 3R has an oblong
box type base 31 which has a through hole 30, a main arm 32 united
with the base 31 and extending horizontally in the Y1 direction
from the base 31, and a swing type sub arm 33 extended horizontally
along the Y1 direction. The main arm 32 has top wall portion 32a,
bottom wall portion 32b and a holding wall portion 32c, to form a
horseshoe cross-section. The holding wall portion 32c of the main
arm 32 has a surface 32x, which may be made of an adhering
material, with a high coefficient of friction and can contact a
sewing material 1 sub-arm 33 which is independent of the main arm
32 and is a unit separate of the main arm 32. The sub-arm 33 face
opposite the main arm 32, and has a top wall portion 33a, a bottom
wall portion 33b and a holding wall portion 33c, to provide a
horseshoe-like cross section, and a disposing surface 33x which is
made of adhering a material of high coefficient of friction to hold
the sewing material 1. By the way, the disposing surfaces 32x and
33x are in mutually opposite facing positions.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, at the protrusion position 33f of
sub-arm 33 there is provided a sewing material guide portion 33w
which is composed by a tapered surface declining to enlarge the
width of clearance towards the cutting edge. Accordingly it becomes
easy to push the sewing material 1 into the clearance between the
disposing surface 32x of the main arm 32 and the disposing surface
33x of the sub-arm 33 along the direction E1.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, on the base end portion 32r of the main
arm 32 are provided a nut 84 having a threaded hole 84a and a hole
86 facing opposite the threaded hole 84a. A hole 87 in the base end
portion 33r of the sub-arm 33 faces the threaded hole 84a.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, a supporting axle 88 of the sub-arm 33
is inserted into a guide hole 89 made in base end portion 32r of a
main arm 32. The sub-arm 33 can thereby swing in the R1/R2
direction relative to the main arm 32. The guide hole 89 is a slot
extended along the X direction. The supporting axle 88 can move
along X direction in the guide hole 89.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 3, the first arm device 3R has a spring 90
functioned as a means of connection with pressure, and a clearance
adjusting bolt 91 functioned as a means of clearance decrease. The
clearance adjusting bolt 91 has an enlarged end 91w which can be
rotated from outside of sub-arm 33 by an operator, and a screw
portion 91x having a male screw 91v able to be threaded into
threaded hole 84a for connection to the main arm 32.
[0055] The S-spring 90 is located between the main arm 32 and the
sub-arm 33. As shown in FIG. 3, the spring 90 has a coil member 90a
having a vertical center axial line, a spring edge portion 90b
extended from coil member 90a, and another spring edge portion 90c
extended from coil member 90a. As shown in FIG. 3, the spring edge
portion 90b abuts a bent portion 33rs of a base end portion 33r on
sub-arm 33. The other spring edge portion 90c abuts the base
portion 31. By a spring force of the spring 90, as shown in FIG. 1,
the projection edge part 33f of sub-arm 33 is applied with force
toward the direction of R1, namely toward the projection edge part
of 32f of main arm 32. By this application of the force, the
projection point 33f of sub-arm 33 is pressed onto the projection
point 32f of the main arm 32 with pressure. Namely the projection
point 33f of the sub-arm 33 is pressed onto the projection point
32f of main arm 32 with pressure FA.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 1, the clearance 92 becomes narrow between
the projection point 32f of main arm 32 and projection point 33f of
sub-arm, and becomes wider between the base end portion 32r of the
main arm 32 and base end portion 33r of the sub-arm. The clearance
92 has a flat triangular shape closing the side of projection point
33f. In this way, by keeping a projection point 33f of sub-arm 33
in contact with a projection point 32f of main arm 32 with
pressure, a sewing material 1 is easily disposed between a
projection point 32f of main arm 32 and a projection point 33f of
sub-arm 33.
[0057] In normal conditions, as may be understandable from FIG. 3,
supporting axle 88 is positioned at one edge 89i of a guide hole 89
by a pressing force of the spring 90. When inserting the clearance
adjusting bolt 91 through holes 86 and 87 of the sub-arm 33, upon
tightening the clearance adjusting bolt 91 on the nut 84, as shown
in FIG. 5, the supporting point axle 88 moves along guide hole 89
along the direction X2, and the sub-arm 33 also moves in a
direction of X2. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 5, the base end part
33r of sub-arm 33 moves close to the base end part 32r of main arm
32 as to decrease the clearance 92. The clearance adjusting bolt 91
therefore performs a clearance decreasing function.
[0058] When the sub-arm 33 approaches the main arm 32 as the
projection point 33f of sub-arm 33 is contacted with pressure to
the projection point 32f of the main arm 32 by spring 90, the major
part of sub-arm 33 comes to contact with the main arm 32. Namely
the contacting area of the disposing surface 32x of the main arm 32
and the disposing surface 33x of the sub-arm 33 increases. By the
above movement, the disposing force between the main arm 32 and the
sub-arm 33 is secured, and the disposing surface 32x of the main
arm 32 and disposing surface 33x of the sub-arm 33 can hold a
sewing material firmly with clamping in the direction of its
thickness.
[0059] As shown In FIG. 4 or 5, a stopper 94 is set in the base end
part 32r of the main arm 32 at a position closer to the projection
point 32f than is the clearance adjusting bolt 91, and the sub-arm
33 has an idle hole for preventing interference of stopper 94 and
sub-arm 33 when main arm 32 and sub-arm 33 come close together. The
stopper 94 therefore prevents contact of the sewing material 1 with
the clearance adjusting bolt 91.
[0060] As it is understandable from FIG. 2, the through hole 30 of
the first arm device 3R, being matched with a cross section shape
of first long guide holding portion 51, will be provided on the
first long guide holding portion 51, and can slide along the length
of the first long guide holding portion 51.
[0061] FIG. 8 shows a section of the first arm device 3r and a long
guide holding portion 5. As shown in FIG. 8, at the top surface
wall 31a of base part 31 of the first arm device 3R a number of
fixation holes 36 are provided for fastening the first arm device
3R on a long guide holding portion. Each arm fixation hole 36 has a
round shape and goes through the top surface wall 31a of base
portion 31. However, the inside wall of arm fixation hole 36 is not
threaded. As shown in FIG. 8, at the bottom surface wall 31c of the
first arm device 3R is a fixation element 37. This fixation element
37 is a nut 37k welded to the bottom surface wall 31c of first arm
device 3R. However, it may be permitted to be a tubular wall by
burring proofing. The arm fixation hole 36 of first arm device
faces opposite the slot 53 of a long guide holding portion 5.
Accordingly even if the base portion 31 of first arm device slides
along the first long guide holding portion 51 in the direction
X1/X2, the arm fixation hole 36 of first arm device 3R can face a
slot 53 of the first long guide holding part 51.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 8, an arm fixation screw 38 extends through
the arm fixation hole 36 of the first arm device 3R from the upper
side of the first arm device 3R. As shown in FIG. 8, an arm
fixation screw 38 has a screw shaft 38t having a male screw 38m and
a head 38s connected with one end of screw shaft 38t. A screw
thread 38m of screw shaft 38t is threaded to nut 37k.
[0063] As it is understandable from FIG. 8, if an operator rotates
head 38s of arm fixation screw 38 using a tool, the thread 38m of
screw shaft 38t mates with a nut 37k. As a result the distance
between fixation article 37 and head 38s of arm fixation screw 38
is shortened, and the top surface wall 31a of base part 31 of first
arm device 3R contacts the top surface 51 of the first long guide
holding portion 51 with pressure, and also the bottom surface wall
31c of base part 31 of first arm device 3R contacts with a bottom
surface 51u of first long guide holding portion 51 with pressure.
Consequently the first arm device 3R is fastened without sliding to
the first long guide holding portion 51.
[0064] In order to make the first arm device slide, an operator may
loosen arm fixation screw 38. By this action, a screw threading 38m
of screw shaft 38t is rotated within nut 37, the contact by
pressure will be loosened, and the first arm device 3R can slide
along the first long guide holding portion 51.
[0065] As shown is FIG. 7, an arm connecting clamp 64 is provided
at the back surface wall 31b of the base portion 31 of the first
arm device 3R. The arm connecting clamp is made of plastic or sheet
metal, and has a flat plate portion 64m and a connecting protrusion
64w combined with the flat plate portion 64m. The connecting
protrusion 64w has a triangular shape (concretely, isosceles
triangular shape) having an inclined plane 64p with equal right and
left hand sides.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 7, the connecting protrusion 64w of an arum
connecting clamp 64 protrudes at an empty space of slide hole 37 of
the base portion 31, the arm connecting clamp 64 is held by a
spring 65 of the connecting member with pressure at a first base
portion 31 of the first arm device 3R. The spring 65 applies a
force to connect the arm connecting clamp 64 in the T1 direction
shown by an arrow, namely toward a long guide holding portion 5.
The connecting protrusion 64w of an arm connecting clamp 64 can
connect and release with each point of the multiple detents 56 made
on the first long guide holding portion 51.
[0067] Namely, when the first arm device 3R slides in the X
direction, the connecting protrusion 64w, being contacted with
pressure toward the T1 direction by the spring 65, is inserted into
a shallow detent 56 at the first long guide holding portion 51.
This is recognized as a tactile impression by an operator, which
functions as a means for discrimination of tactile impression.
[0068] When the first arm device 3R slides further in the X
direction, as is understood from FIG. 7, an inclined plane 64p of
the arm connecting clamp 64 climbs up an inclined plane 56n of the
detent 56, and the connection between a protrusion shape of the
connecting protrusion 64w and the detent 56 will be canceled.
[0069] When the connecting protrusion 64w of the arm connecting
clamp 64 is connected with any of the detents 56, as an external
force is required to make the first arm device slide in the X
direction, unnecessary vibrations of the first arm device 3R will
be brought under control. Accordingly the arm connecting clamp 64
and the detent 56 act as a means to inhibit unnecessary of the
first arm device 3R.
[0070] In this embodiment of the present invention, as shown in
FIG. 1, the second arm device 3L has the same structure as first
arm device 3R, and is symmetrical relative to a virtual center line
W1 of a moving part 61 in the direction X. Concerning to the second
long guide holding portion 52 and the first long guide holding
portion 51 the structure is a symmetrical structure relative to the
virtual center line W1 of a moving part 61.
[0071] Namely as shown in FIG. 1, the second arm device 3L has a
base portion 31 having a through hole along the X direction, a main
arm 32 extending from the base portion 31 along the Y1 direction, a
sub-arm 33 extending toward the Y1 direction. In the second arm
device, sub-arm 33 is a separate unit from the main arm 32. As
shown in FIG. 1, on the second arm device 3L a supporting axle 88
fits into a guide hole 89 on a base portion 32r of the main arm 32,
and can move in the direction of the major axis of the guide hole
89. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, the second arm device 3L has a
spring for connection with pressure, and a clearance adjusting bolt
91 as a means of clearance decrease.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 2, a slot 53 extends on the top surface of
the second long guide holding portion 52. A mark 55 which functions
as a means of position discrimination is provided at multiple
points in predetermined intervals on a front surface 52a of the
second long guide holding portion 52. The marks 55 can distinguish
positions of high frequency use of the second arm device 3L.
Multiple detents 56 are made in predetermined interval at the back
surface 52b of the second long guide holding portion 52.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 1, an arm fixation hole 36 facing opposite
the slot 53 is made on the top surface wall 31a on the base portion
of the second arm device 3L. An arm fixation screw 38 extends
through the arm fixation hole 36 of the second arm device 3L from
above the second arm device 3L.
[0074] When a sewing operation such as embroidering is carried out,
as shown in a solid lines in FIG. 9, from the sewing material guide
portion 33w the sewing material 1 is inserted in a direction of E1
along a clearance between the disposing surface 32x at main arm 32
of the first arm device 3R and the disposing surface 33x of the
sub-arm 33, until it reaches the front of stopper 94.
[0075] After that, an operator rotates the head portion 91w of the
clearance adjusting bolt and make the disposing surface 33x of the
sub-arm 33 engage the disposing surface 32x of main arm 32 by
tightening the clearance adjusting bolt 91 onto the nut 84.
Although not shown in the figures, the same operation is repeated
for the second arm device 3L.
[0076] When sewing a material, such as embroidering, a clearance M
between the first arm device 3R and second arm device 3L is
adjusted accordingly with a size of sewing material 1. In this
embodiment of the present invention, by loosening an arm fixation
screw 38 of the first arm device 3R and second arm device 3L,
either of the first arm device 3R or second arm device 3L can slide
on the long guide holding portion 5. An operator then slides either
one, or both, of the first arm device 3R or second arm device 3L by
hand in a direction of X1 or X2 along the long guide holding
portion 5. In this way the position of the first arm device 3R and
second arm device 3L in a direction X corresponds to the size of
the sewing material 1.
[0077] After the position of first arm device 3R and second arm
device 3L are set, the first arm device 3R and second arm device 3L
can be fixed to long guide holding portion 5 by tightening the arm
fixation screw 38 onto the nut 37k.
[0078] If the clearance M between the first arm device 3R and the
second arm device 3L is broadened, the sewing material 1 will be
tensioned. Then, the sewing machine as illustrated in FIG. 12 shall
be operated to sew or embroidery. Since the sewing material is
tensioned, the sewing operation will be conducted in good
order.
[0079] Furthermore, as it can be understood from FIG. 9, when the
sewing material is tensioned, the portion 1M of the sewing material
1 between the first arm device 3R and second arm device 3L is
located at a position lower than a lower wall portion 32b of main
arm 32. The part IP of the sewing material outside of the first arm
device 3R is located at higher than an upper wall portion 33a of
the sub-arm 33.
[0080] When sewing such a material, when it becomes necessary to
slide the sewing material 1 in the X or Y directions, a controller
causes the guide rail 60 to move for Y direction movement, or the
moving portion 61 to be moved along the guide rail 60 for X
direction movement. If the moving portion 61 is moved by the
controller toward a direction of X1 and X2 along the guide rail 60,
the long guide holding portion 5 held by the moving portion 61, the
first arm device 3R and second arm device 3L also move along the
direction X (X1/X2 direction).
[0081] As above explained, by this embodiment of the present
invention, as can be understood from FIG. 1, before a normal state
of holding the sewing material, while keeping a clearance 92
between a base end portion 32r of the main arm 32 and a base end
portion 33r of the sub arm 33 on the first arm device 3R and second
arm device 3L, a projection portion 33f of the sub-arm 33 is
contacted with pressure to a projection portion 32f of main arm 32,
by point contact. Accordingly if the sewing material 1 is inserted
between the main arm 32 and the sub-arm 33 of the first arm device
3R before the sewing material is held firmly, the sewing material
is easily held temporarily in a direction of its thickness by the
point contact of projection portion 32f of main arm 32 and
projection portion 33f of sub-arm 33. Therefore it is not necessary
to hold the sewing material 1 by an operator's hands.
[0082] As a clearance 92 is provided between a base end portion 32r
of the main arm 32 and a base end portion 33r of the sub-arm 33,
the movement resistance against the sewing material 1 is
reduced.
[0083] Therefore by holding the sewing material tentatively, as
written in the above, the sewing material 1 can be moved easily to
the primary holding position. After the sewing material is moved to
the right position, the clearance 92 is reduced by making the base
end 33r of the sub-arm 33 approach the base end portion 32r of the
main arm 32 by screwing the clearance adjusting bolt 91 into the
fixation nut 84, and the sewing material can be hold with clamping
between the disposing surface 32x of main arm 32 and the disposing
surface 33x of the sub-arm 33.
[0084] Furthermore as shown in FIG. 9, provided at the disposing
surface 32x of the main arm 32 is a first sewing material
engagement portion 96 (one piece or multiple pieces) in a shape of
shallow dent, and also provided at the disposing surface 33x of
sub-arm 33 is the second sewing material engagement portion 97 (one
piece or multiple pieces in a shape of convexity. By these
structures a holding force of the sewing material is further
strengthened.
[0085] And in this embodiment of the present invention, as a sewing
material guide portion 33w is provided on the first arm device 3R
and second arm device 3L of the sewing material holding device 2,
when held tentatively, the sewing material can be smoothly pushed
in a direction E1 between the main arm 32 and the sub-arm 33.
[0086] The distance M between the first arm device 3R and the
second arm device 3L may be adjusted as corresponding to a size of
the sewing material 1. In this embodiment of the present invention,
a distance M between the first arm device 3R and second arm device
3L can be made continuously variable by sliding the first arm
device 3R and second arm device 3L along a direction X1 and X2.
Accordingly it is applicable to any size of the sewing material.
Furthermore as both of the first arm device 3R and the second arm
device 3L are able to slide, it is further possible to cope with
any size of sewing material.
[0087] In the case of embroidering work as an example of sewing,
the sewing material will be extended in a state of tension by a
tabaret. In the present invention, as the distance M between the
first arm device 3R and the second arm device 3L is continuously
variable the sewing material is kept in a condition of extension,
and an embroidering work can be done without using a tabaret.
Therefore a sewing machine without a tabaret and a holding device
for sewing material without a tabaret are supplied to the
market.
[0088] In addition to this embodiment of the present invention,
multiple mark 55 showing the high frequency positions of use for
the first arm device 3R and second arm device 3L are provided on
the first long guide holding portion 51 and second long guide
holding portion 52 as a means of arm position discrimination. As it
is understood from FIG. 2 an operator can easily slide the arm
devices to positions of high frequency use.
[0089] Especially in this embodiment of the present invention, as
explained before, an arm connecting clamp 64 is provided on the
first arm device 3R and the second arm device 3L. When the first
arm device 3R and the second arm device 3L slide, the connecting
protrusion 64w in a shape of a convexity is inserted into one of
the detents 56. Therefore an operator who slides the first arm
device 3R and the second arm device 3L by hand can sense when a
high frequency use position is reached. In this embodiment, even if
an operator does not have a will or time to examine the marks 55,
the positions of high frequency use of the first arm device 3R and
the second arm device 3L can be easily distinguished.
[0090] Further in this embodiment of the present invention, the
connection and insertion of the connecting protrusion 64w in a
detent 56 can be distinguished by the connecting noise. Therefore
even if an operator does not have a will or time to recognize the
marks 55 the positions of high frequency use of the first arm
device 3R and the second arm device 3L can be easily
distinguished.
[0091] The detents 56 have an isosceles triangular shape having
equal inclined planes 56a at both right and left sides, and the
connecting protrusion 64w of the arm connecting clamp 64 is also an
isosceles triangular shape having an inclined plane 64p having
equal right and left sides. Therefore the extent of insertion and
connection when the first arm device 3R and the second arm device
3L slide toward the direction of X1 and toward the direction of X2
can be equalized.
[0092] In the case of mounting the sewing material holding device 2
on a sewing machine sold in the market, the guide rail 60 and the
moving portion 61 equipped with a sewing machine can be used and it
is practical to mount the long guide holding portion 5 on the
moving portion 61.
[0093] The second embodiment of the present invention is shown by
referring FIG. 10. The second embodiment is composed basically by
the same structure with the first embodiment, and the common parts
have a common numerical number. The second embodiment has basically
same advantageous effects. The different part from the first
embodiment will be explained hereunder.
[0094] In the second embodiment of the present invention, the slots
53 in the first long guide holding portion 51 and second long guide
holding portion 52, as shown in FIG. 10, have a top surface opening
53a, but do not go through to the bottom. Therefore the slots 53
have a base 53e. Internal threading 36x is provided at the inside
wall surface of arm fixation hole 36 made on the top surface wall
31a of the first arm device 3R.
[0095] As is understood from FIG. 10, when inserting the arm
fixation screw 38 in the slot 53 from above, and tightening the
head 38s of the arm fixation screw 38 by a tool, and screwing the
fixation screw 38 into the female screw 36x of the arm fixation
hole 36, pressure is applied to the base 53e of the slot 53, and
the bottom surface 51u of first long guide holding portion applies
a pressure strongly to the bottom surface wall 31c on the base
portion 31 of the first arm device 3R. As a result, the first arm
device 3R is fixed to the first long guide holding portion 51, and
the first arm device 3R cannot slide against the first long guide
holding portion 51.
[0096] To permit the first arm device 3R to slide, the arm fixation
screw 38 is loosened by using a tool to rotate the screw 38.
Fixation is thereby released, as the bottom surface 51u of the
first long guide holding portion 51 releases pressure on the bottom
surface wall 31c of the first arm device 3R. Above explanation also
applies to the second arm device 3L.
[0097] The third embodiment of the present invention is shown
referring FIG. 11. The third embodiment is basically same
constitution as the first embodiment, and so the common parts are
given the common numerical numbers. The third embodiment has
basically the same advantageous effect. The different parts from
the first embodiment will be explained hereunder. In the third
embodiment of the present invention, the slot 53 on the first long
guide holding portion 5 is located at the back surface of the first
long guide holding portion 51. Namely the slot 53 has a back side
opening, and the bottom surface 53s faces the side.
[0098] The arm fixation hole 35 provided at the back surface wall
31b of the first arm device 3R passes through the back surface wall
31b and opens to the side, and an internal screw threading 36x is
provided at the inside wall.
[0099] As shown in FIG. 11, when inserting the arm fixation screw
38 into the slot 53 from a side of the first long guide holding
portion 51, namely from a direction of arrow mark E3, and screwing
the fixation screw 38 into the female screw 36x of the arm fixation
hole 36, pressure is applied to the base 53e of the slot 53, and
the side surface 51r of first long guide holding portion applies a
pressure strongly to the side surface wall 31u on the base portion
31 of the first arm device 3R. As a result, the first arm device 3R
is fixed to the first long guide holding portion 51, and the first
arm device 3R cannot slide against the first long guide holding
portion 51.
[0100] To permit the first arm device 3R to slide, the arm fixation
screw 38 is loosened by using a tool to rotate the screw 38.
Fixation is thereby released, as the side surface 51r of the first
long guide holding portion 51 releases pressure on the side surface
wall 31c of the first arm device 3R. Above explanation also applies
to the second arm device 3L.
[0101] FIG. 12 shows an example of application. In this example of
application a base 102 has plural legs 100, a sewing mechanism 104
has a function of embroidering with a needle drive structure
mounted on the base 102, an operating board 108 has various
switches 106, an embroidering needle 110 and a holding device 2 to
hold the sewing material 1 arm.
[0102] The holding device 2 has the first arm device 3R extending
in a direction of the arrow Y1, the first arm device 3R holding a
part of the sewing material, and the second arm device 3L holding a
part of sewing material, and the long guide holding portion 5
provided along a direction X which intersects with an extending
direction of the first arm device 3R and the second arm device 3L.
The clearance M between the first arm device 3R and the second arm
device 3L is infinitely variable.
[0103] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the main
arm 32 is located at the inside, and the sub-arm 33 is located at
the outside, as seen in the plan view of FIG. 1. However, this
orientation may be reversed.
[0104] In the first embodiment of the present invention, both first
arm device 3R and second arm device 3L are able to slide along the
long guide holding portion 5. However, it is also possible to fix
one of the first arm device 3R and the second arm device 3L.
[0105] In the first embodiment of the present invention, as shown
in FIG. 9, the engagement portion 96, 97 is composed of a shallow
dent on the disposing surface 32x of main arm 32, and a convexity
on the disposing surface 33x of sub-arm 33. However, this may be
reversed. The coil spring 90 is provided as a mean of pressure
contact. However, a different coil spring, blade spring, conical
spring and so forth may be used.
[0106] The clearance adjusting bolt 91 is provided as a means of
clearance reduction. However, it may be possible to reduce the
clearance 92 by an air-cylinder device and to positively hold the
sewing material. Only one clearance adjusting bolt 91 is provided
on the arm device 3R, but plural clearance adjusting bolts may also
be applicable.
[0107] Plural marks 55 are provided as an arm position
discrimination means on the first long guide holding portion 51 and
second long guide holding portion 52. But the number of marks 55 is
not limited and a single mark 55 provided on the first long guide
holding portion 51 and the second long guide holding portion 52 may
be applicable. Furthermore the mark 55 is not limited to a vertical
line but may be a dot, triangle, number, word and so forth.
[0108] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the first
long guide holding portion 51 and a slide hole 30 have a
rectangular shape in cross section. However, they may have a round
shape or oval shape, or any shape which can slide the first arm
device 3R and second arm device 3L smoothly.
[0109] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the arm
connecting clamp 64 lets an operator feel and hear when sliding the
first arm device 3R or second arm device 3L reaches a frequent use
position. The marks 55 on the long guide holding portion 5 are also
to distinguish the position of the first arm device 3R and second
arm device 3L when the sewing material is in a high frequency use
position. However, it is possible to provide only the detent 56 and
the arm connecting clamp 64 and eliminate the marks 55, or to
provide only the marks 55 and eliminate the detent 56 and the arm
connecting clamp 64. In the first embodiment of the present
invention, the arm connecting clamp 64 is provided on the first arm
device 3R and second arm device 3L, and the detents 56 are provided
at the long guide holding portion 5. However, it may be applicable
to provide the detents 56 at the first arm device 3R and second arm
device 3L, and to provide the arm connecting clamp 64 on the long
guide holding portion 5.
[0110] The present invention is not restricted or confined to the
embodiments explained in the above and shown in the drawings. Each
of the sewing machine and the sewing material holding can have a
fixation portion which fixes at least either side of the first arm
device and second arm device to the long plate guide holding
portion, for example by using pressure contact. Alternatively, the
fixation portion may use a screw on the first arm device and second
arm device, by screwing in, with the screw holding either the first
arm device or the second arm device to the long plate guide holding
portion by pressure.
[0111] Each of the sewing machine and the sewing material holding
device can be provided with a fixation portion which has a hole
having internal threading at the wall of either part of the first
arm device and second arm device, a screw matable with the internal
threading.
[0112] Each of the sewing machine and the sewing material holding
device can be provided with a box type base portion which blocks
out the slide hole connected with the long plate guide holding
portion with a cross section of either part of the first arm device
and second arm device.
[0113] The long plate guide holding portion has a basal plain in a
shape of base. By screwing in the tip portion of screw axis, a
pressure is applied to the basal plain such that either part of the
first arm device and second arm device makes contact with the long
plate guide holding portion with pressure, to fix either part to
the long plate guide holding portion.
[0114] The sewing machine and the sewing material holding device
can be provided with a means of distinguishing arm position at a
sliding position of the arm device, a means for distinguishing arm
position with visual discrimination of which either part of the
slide position at the movable type part of the first arm device and
second arm device when the sewing material in high frequency use
position is being used, a mean for auditory distinguishing of arm
position about either part of the slide position at the movable
type part of first arm device and second arm device when the sewing
material in high frequency use is being used, and a mean for
distinguishing arm position with by tactile impression about either
part of the slide position at the movable type part of first arm
device and second arm device when the sewing material in high
frequency use is being used.
[0115] Each of the sewing machine and the sewing material holding
device can be provided with a shallow dent and convexity portion on
the long plate guide holding portion and at either part of first
arm device and second arm device.
[0116] The first arm device and second arm device may be
independent and substantially in parallel.
[0117] The first arm device, second arm device and the long plate
guide holding portion may be in a shape of horseshoe when the
distance between the first arm device and second arm device is
expanded.
[0118] The sewing machine and the sewing material holding device
can be provided with means for distinguishing the position by a
detent in the shape of shallow dent or convexity, a mark made at
the front side of the long plate guide holding portion, or a detent
made at the back surface of the long plate-guide holding
portion.
[0119] As it is understood from the above explanation, according to
the present invention, by making a clearance between a base end
portions of main arm sub arm by means of pressure contact, a part
of an edge point of the sub arm is pressure contacted with an edge
point of the main arm. In this condition, the sewing material will
be held temporarily with the edge of the sub arm which contacts the
edge point of main arm with pressure. Since the sewing material is
held temporarily, an operator need not hold the sewing material by
hand.
[0120] Furthermore, while the sewing material is held temporarily
by the main arm and sub arm with a clearance between the base end
portion of the main arm and sub arm, the sewing material can easily
and smoothly be pushed into the clearance between the base end
portion of the main arm and the base end portion of the sub arm. In
this way the sewing material being held temporarily by the main arm
and the sub arm can be easily moved to a position for sewing.
[0121] And the sewing material is permanently held, by means of
clearance reduction, by having the sub arm engage the main arm in a
direction for reducing the clearance between the base end portion
of main arm and the base end portion of sub arm. The degree of
holding the sewing material is thus raised and the force between
main arm and sub arm is raised.
[0122] By sliding either the first arm device or the second arm
device, the clearance between the first arm device and second arm
device can be adjustable continuously to be wide, medium or narrow.
So any thickness of sewing material can be sewn and
embroidered.
[0123] Particularly if the clearance between the first arm device
and second arm device can be adjustable, the sewing material can be
easily tensioned. According the conventional tambour can be
abolished and the sewing material can be sewn and embroidered
without using a conventional tambour.
[0124] Having now fully described the invention, it will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many changes and
modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or
scope of the invention as set forth herein.
* * * * *