U.S. patent application number 16/116793 was filed with the patent office on 2019-04-04 for systems and methods for providing a knitting needle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jonathan Bronson, Cynthia Decker, Ann Fairbourn. Invention is credited to Jonathan Bronson, Cynthia Decker, Ann Fairbourn.
Application Number | 20190100862 16/116793 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 65526064 |
Filed Date | 2019-04-04 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190100862 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Decker; Cynthia ; et
al. |
April 4, 2019 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A KNITTING NEEDLE
Abstract
Some implementations of the described invention relate to a
knitting needle. While this first knitting needle can have any
suitable characteristic or component, in some cases, it defines a
groove that extends longitudinally along a length of the knitting
needle. In some cases, the groove opens near a point end (or distal
end) of the first needle. Thus, in some cases, a tip of a second
knitting needle can run through the groove, such that the tip of
the second needle is able to readily pass under a portion of yarn
(or other material) that is on the first knitting needle. In some
cases, a proximal end of the knitting needle comprises an object
that is wider than a width of a shaft of the needle. In some cases,
the described knitting needle is coupled with another needle via a
non-resilient coupler. Other implementations are described.
Inventors: |
Decker; Cynthia; (South
Jordan, UT) ; Fairbourn; Ann; (South Jordan, UT)
; Bronson; Jonathan; (South Jordan, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Decker; Cynthia
Fairbourn; Ann
Bronson; Jonathan |
South Jordan
South Jordan
South Jordan |
UT
UT
UT |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
65526064 |
Appl. No.: |
16/116793 |
Filed: |
August 29, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62551996 |
Aug 30, 2017 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D04B 15/68 20130101;
D04B 15/02 20130101; D04B 35/02 20130101; D04B 3/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
D04B 3/02 20060101
D04B003/02; D04B 35/02 20060101 D04B035/02; D04B 15/02 20060101
D04B015/02 |
Claims
1. A knitting apparatus, comprising: a first knitting needle,
wherein the first knitting needle defines a first groove extending
along a portion of a length of the first knitting needle.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first knitting needle
comprises an elongated shaft, wherein the elongated shaft comprises
a substantially flat exterior surface, and wherein the first groove
is defined in the substantially flat exterior surface.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first knitting needle
comprises an elongated shaft, wherein a portion of the elongated
shaft comprises a polygonal shape, wherein a first surface of the
polygonal shape defines the first groove, and wherein a second
surface of the polygonal shape defines a second groove that extends
along the portion of the length of the first knitting needle.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first knitting needle
comprises an elongated, square shaped shaft, wherein the first
groove is defined in a first face of the square shaped shaft, and
wherein a second, third, and fourth groove are respectively defined
in a second, third, and fourth face of the elongated, square shaped
shaft.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first knitting needle
further comprises: a distal end having a pointed tip; and a
proximal end comprising an object that is wider than a width of an
elongated shaft of the first knitting needle.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second knitting
needle, wherein the second knitting needle defines a second groove
extending along a portion of a length of the second knitting
needle, wherein the first and second knitting needles are coupled
together with a flexible coupler.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the flexible coupler has
comprises a non-resilient material.
8. A knitting system comprising, a first knitting needle comprising
an elongated shaft having: a distal end comprising a pointed tip of
the first knitting needle; a proximal end; and a first groove
defined in an exterior surface of the elongated shaft, wherein the
first groove extends from a distal portion of the elongated shaft,
proximally along a length of the elongated shaft, and wherein the
first groove is configured to receive a pointed tip of a second
knitting needle.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the first groove is longer than
about 2 cm.
10. The system of claim 8, wherein the elongated shaft defines a
second groove that extends from the distal portion of the elongated
shaft, proximally along the length of the elongated shaft.
11. The system of claim 8, wherein: the elongated shaft comprises a
four-sided shaft, the first groove is defined in a first side of
the four-sided shaft, and a second, third, and fourth groove are
respectively defined in a second, third, and fourth side of the
four-sided shaft.
17. The system of claim 8, further comprising the second knitting
needle, and wherein the first knitting needle comprises a first
distinguishing feature that readily distinguishes the first
knitting needle from the second knitting needle.
13. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising the second
knitting needle, wherein the proximal end of the first knitting
needle and a proximal end of the second knitting needle are coupled
together via a non-resilient coupler.
14. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the first groove opens at its
distal end to allow the pointed tip of the second knitting needle
to slide distally out of the first groove.
15. A knitting system comprising: a first knitting needle
comprising a four-sided, elongated shaft having: a proximal end; a
pointed distal end; and a first, second, third, and fourth groove,
that each extend from a distal portion, and longitudinally along a
length, of the four-sided, elongated shaft, with the first, second,
third, and fourth groove respectively being defined in a first,
second, third, and fourth face of the four-sided, elongated
shaft.
16. The system of claim 15, further comprising a second knitting
needle, wherein the proximal end of the first knitting needle and a
proximal end of the second knitting needle are coupled together via
a non-resilient coupler.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the first knitting needle
comprises a first distinguishing feature that readily distinguishes
the first knitting needle from the second knitting needle.
18. The system of claim 16, wherein the first knitting needle
comprises a first dominant color, and wherein the second knitting
needle comprises a second dominant color that is readily
distinguishable from the first dominant color.
19. The system of claim 15, wherein the first groove opens at its
distal end to allow a pointed tip of a second knitting needle to
slide distally through and out of the first groove.
20. The system of claim 15, wherein the proximal end of the first
knitting needle an object that is wider than a width of four-sided,
elongated shaft of the first knitting needle.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 62/551,996, filed Aug. 30, 2017, and entitled
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A KNITTING NEEDLE (Attorney
Docket No. 27210.2), which is incorporated herein in its entirety
by reference.
FIELD
[0002] Some implementations of the described invention relate to a
knitting needle. While this knitting needle can have any suitable
characteristic or component, in some cases, it defines a groove
that extends along at least a portion of a length (or a
longitudinal axis) of the knitting needle. In some cases, the
groove opens near a point end of the first needle. Thus, in some
cases, a point of a second knitting needle can run through a groove
in a first knitting needle, allowing the point of the second needle
to pass under a portion of yarn (or other material) that is on the
first knitting needle.
BACKGROUND
[0003] There are a variety of material choices for knitting
needles. A knitter may choose the size, length, and shape of a
needle. Additionally, knitters may choose a set of needles that are
pointed at both ends, which (when worked together) may be used to
knit small circular projects.
[0004] Unfortunately, the explosion of knitting needle choices has
not solved some of the biggest problems reported by knitters, both
old and young. As one example of such a problem a problem which
frustrates experienced knitters and keeps some new knitters from
continuing it can be difficult to create even tension consistently.
In this regard, the term even tension (and variations thereof) may
refer to a knitting process (or a knitted material) in which each
stitch or loop receives substantially the same amount of yam. An
example of a knitted material 10 having stitches with substantially
even tension is shown in FIG. 1A.
[0005] One possible problem with many conventional knitting
techniques is that of uneven tension. Some instances of uneven
tension include, but are not limited to: oversized stitches that
look like gaps or holes in the knitted material 10 (see e.g., FIG.
1B) next to small tight stitches in the same row, guttering 15
between rows (or larger than normal spaces between rows visible on
the back side of the knitted material) (see e.g., FIG. 1C), rowing
out (or rows of stitches that stand out on the front side of the
knitted material) (see e.g., FIG. 1D), puckering of stitches due to
yarn splitting 25 (see e.g., FIG. 1E), having a piece of knitting
that changes from tight to loose over a length of the project,
having finished projects that either take much more or much less
yarn than what is suggested by a pattern, having a failed project
that does not fit as intended, and having a knitted stockinette
pattern (or one row of knit stitches followed by one row of purl
stitches, repeated) that rolls or curls violently from either the
sides or the bottom.
[0006] Tension problems are often so ubiquitous that over the years
many tricks or methods have been passed around hoping to mitigate
such problems. Some examples of such methods include the following
techniques that were taken from several popular knitting blogs: 1)
Never knit the stockinette pattern. Instead, choose a similar
pattern that disguises the difference in tension between the knit
stitch and the purl stitch. 2) Never purl or purl backwards. 3)
Always knit in the round. 4) Pick yarns to hide any flaws. 5) Teach
your hands to adjust, specifically to loosen whichever stitch is
tight and/or tighten whichever stitch is loose. 6) Use different
sized needles, one for knit stitches and one for purl stitches.
(Many knitters, when knitting a stockinette pattern resort to
adding a ribbed border in order to force the stockinette pattern to
lay flat rather than t roll up. This roll is the result of uneven
tension between garter stitches and purl stitches). In the end,
each of these proposed methods has its limitations, and none of
them is a perfect solution.
[0007] Currently, tension (which should generally be applied to the
yarn when knitting) is often managed by a knitter's hands. This
tension helps to: 1) keep the yarn in position in order to form a
stitch, 2) hold the yarn around the needle as the next stitch is
created, 3) determine the size of each stitch, and/or 4) provide
other necessary assistance to a knitter. While controlling tension
can be important, it can also be useful to vary the tension of the
yarn slightly as the knitter knits,
[0008] There are a myriad of ways for a knitter to hold and tension
the yarn. Some common methods usually involve bringing the new yarn
from its source to the palm, up between the fingers at a point next
to the palm, and wrapping the yarn around one of the fingers, and
finally ending up on the top of the first finger. In this regard,
the first finger is used to direct the yarn onto the needle. The
purpose of this "winding" around the fingers is to put tension on
the yarn.
[0009] As a general rule, there are at least two basic stitches
when knitting: the knit stitch and the purl stitch. The knit stitch
begins at a front of the loop and the purl stitch begins at a back
of the loop. A stitch is created when the knitter slides the
working needle (in the right (or dominant) hand, in some cases)
under the right (or other) leg and through the center of the stitch
or loop on the resting needle (in the left hand (or recessive hand,
in some such cases)) then wraps new working yarn (from the ball of
yarn) around the point of the working needle and finally brings
that yarn back under the stitch or loop, thereby creating a new
stitch that is then transferred to the working needle. In some
cases, knitters report a difference in the length of yarn used
between a knit stitch and a purl stitch. In some cases, knitters
also disagree over which stitch is tighter and which stitch is
looser, and to be fair, the difference may lie in the hands of each
specific knitter. Tensioning the yarn is often considered to be the
number one skill required to create an evenly knitted fabric. In
some cases, minor changes in how the yarn is held and apportioned
while knitting can lead to major disruptions in tension.
Additionally, there are other forces at work which can also lead to
uneven tension.
[0010] As another problem, some conventional methods for knitting
are prone to allow yarn splitting. In this regard, if the knitter,
when trying to slide the working needle 30 under the right (or
another) leg and through the center of the stitch or loop on a
resting needle 35, accidently pierces and goes through the yarn on
the resting needle, the yarn 40 is split or a yarn splitting 25
occurs (see e.g., FIGS. 2A-2B). Part of the yarn will be knitted
into the new stitch and part of the yarn remains behind on the
resting needle, which will eventually be caught up in the next
stitch. The yarn is thus locked into two different stitches, which
tightens them both and disrupts the tension. This accident is
common and cannot be blamed completely on the knitter. The knitter,
in order to be successful in some cases, may need to bring the
point of the working needle snugly against the resting needle and
while maintaining contact, slide it under the right leg of the loop
and through the center of the stitch. Another significant problem
common among many of today's knitters is the inability to easily
knit projects having small circumferences, such as are found in
many small hats, small sleeves, socks, and gloves, etc. A variety
of methods have been developed to overcome this difficulty with
limited success. Today there are knitters who still use a set of
small double pointed needles or DPNs 45 (usually 3 or 4 resting
needles plus one working needle), overlapping end to end in order
to knit a piece having a small circumference (see e.g., FIG.
3A).
[0011] In some such cases, the first resting needle, having been
freed from all of its loops by the first working needle becomes the
next working needle and travels to the next resting needle which,
when freed from all of its loops by the second working needle,
becomes the new working needle. This process of leap-frogging
around the circumference continues around and around the piece,
each resting needle becoming the new working needle in its turn.
There are often three problems with this method. 1) If the knitter
is using three resting needles and one working needle and each
needle has two pointy ends there are a total of eight pointy ends
to contend with. In this case "contend with" means keeping the yarn
from dropping off of eight pointy ends while the knitter is adding
stitches. 2) When a knitter begins and ends the stitches on a
working needle it is common for the first and last stitch to be
slightly larger than the stitches in the middle of the working
needle. Unless pulled very tight and held firmly until the next
stitch is locked in place there will be gaps or stitches that are
too large between each set of needles on the knitted piece. 3) This
method of creating a small circumference is often slow and awkward
work (see e.g., FIG. 3B). Often, when the pattern changes, new
struggles come into play as the knitter attempts to add or decrease
stitches in a tight, point filled area. For many projects there
comes a point when the circumference, which began very small, has
been enlarged enough that the knitter transfers the work to a
conventional circular knitting needle system to finish the project.
When transferring the project from the double pointed needles to
the circular knitting needle system, the opportunity to drop
stitches looms large. Dropped stitches take time and effort to pick
up correctly. Few problems are more frustrating.
[0012] Thus, while systems and methods currently exist that are
used for knitting, challenges still exist, including those listed
above. Accordingly, it would be an improvement in the art to
augment or even replace current techniques with improved tools and
techniques.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] Some implementations of the described invention relate to a
knitting needle. While this knitting needle can have any suitable
characteristic or component, in some cases, it defines a groove
that extends longitudinally along a length of an outer surface of
the knitting needle. In some cases, the groove opens near a pointed
end (or a distal end) of the described needle. Thus, in some cases,
a tip of a second knitting needle can run longitudinally through
the groove, such that the tip of the second needle is able to
readily pass under a portion of yarn (or other material) that is on
the described grooved knitting needle. In some cases, a proximal
end of the described knitting needle comprises an object that is
wider than a width of a shaft of the needle so as to prevent yard
loops from falling off of the proximal end of the needle. In some
cases, the described knitting needle is coupled with another
needle. While such coupling can be achieved in any suitable manner,
in some cases, the two needles are coupled together with a
non-resilient coupler. Additionally, in some instances in which the
grooved knitting needle is used with a second needle (whether or
not the two needles are coupled together), at least one of the
needles comprises a distinguishing feature that allows the two
needles to be readily distinguished. For instance, the two knitting
needles can be different colors.
[0014] The described knitting needles (referred to herein in some
cases as grooved needle(s)) are knitting needles for the 21.sup.st
century and beyond. In many cases, they incorporate a beautiful
design and use basic science to solve tension problems. Indeed,
rather than fight with the knitter, the described grooved needles
are configured to help the knitter to create a beautiful evenly
knitted fabric--and, in some implementations, they do it no matter
how big or how small the circumference of the project, without
having to change from one system to another.
[0015] The described grooved needles can be any suitable shape
(e.g., have an elongated shaft with a cross-section taken
perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the needle that is
substantially square, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, round,
cylindrical, circular, elliptical, star-shaped, multi-pointed,
multi-protrusion, multi-cornered, multi-edged, symmetrical,
asymmetrical, polygonal, regular shaped, irregularly shaped, and/or
any other suitable shape). In some implementations, the described
grooved needles comprise square knitting needles (or needles having
a shaft with a square cross-sectional view) which in some
implementations comprise: a slot, a recess, a space between two or
more ridges or processes, a depression, a concavity, and/or other
groove on or in the face of one or more sides and/or external
surfaces of the needle (e.g., on four sides of a square
needle).
[0016] In accordance with some implementations, the described
grooved needles define a right angle groove, a V-shaped groove, a
U-shaped groove, a dove-tail shaped groove (e.g., having a
relatively narrow opening that broadens towards a base of the
groove), a rounded groove, and/or any other suitably shaped groove
(or needle guide) that is defined in (or otherwise incorporated.
into) the needle. Indeed, in some cases, a V-shaped groove is cut,
milled, molded, ground, etched, printed, and/or otherwise formed in
the face of one or more sides, faces, or even corners (e.g., at
four sides) of the needle, with the groove having an angle between
about 60 degrees and about 5 degrees, or any subrange thereof
(e.g., about 45 degrees.+-.30 degrees).
[0017] While the depth of the groove can be any suitable depth, in
some implementations, the depth of each groove is between about
1/10 and about 9/10 of the total depth (or thickness) of the shaft
of the needle, or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 1/4 of the
total depth of the needle). In some implementations of a 9 inch
(228.60 mm) or a grooved needle comprising a straight knitting
needle of any other suitable length, one of more of the grooves
begins and/or opens between about 0.001 mm and about 50 mm, or any
subrange thereof (e.g., about 11.37 mm) from the described needle's
distal tip (or point) and continues between about 5 mm and about
300 mm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 75.95 mm) toward the
proximal end of the needle before ending. Thus, in some
implementations, a tip of a second needle can be placed in the
groove of a first needle (e.g., below a piece of yard wrapped
around the first needle) and the second needle can slide distally
through the groove and then be released form a distal end of the
groove.
[0018] In some implementations, the distal tip of the described
needle transitions or tapers from the grooved concave section to a
round, curved, squared, pyramidal, pointed, and/or other suitably
shaped point which is any suitable size (e.g., having a width or
diameter between about 0.1 mm and about 1 cm or any subrange
thereof, such as about 5 mm) and then is radius-ed (or otherwise
shaped) to any suitable size (e.g., between about 0.01 mm and about
20 mm or any subrange thereof, such as about 0.25 mm).
[0019] In some cases, the proximal end of the needle is optionally
fitted, formed with, and/or otherwise comprises a square cube, a
cross bar, and/or an object of any other suitable shape which is
any suitable size (e.g., between about 1.1 and about 10 times, or
any subrange thereof), such as about two times) larger than the
width of the needle shaft. In some implementations, one or more
(e.g., all) edges of the square cube (or other shaped object or
enlargement at the needle's proximal end) are radius-ed to between
about 0.1 mm and about 1 cm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., to
about 0.25 mm.+-.5 mm). In some cases, this cube (or other suitable
object) acts as a stop to the yarn, ensuring that yarn will not
drop off of the proximal end of the needle. In any case, the
described needles, and their various features, can be manufactured
to be any suitable size.
[0020] The described needles can also comprise any suitable
material, including, without limitation, one or more types of wood,
bamboo, metal, metal alloy, nylon, plastics, polymers, carbon
fibers, acrylics, glass, synthetic materials, natural materials,
ceramics, combinations thereof, and/or other suitable
materials.
[0021] In some cases, tension is improved when using a square (or
other cornered) needle shaft because kinetic friction of the yarn
over the corners of the needle retards the movement of the yarn,
essentially creating a bobbin case-like tensioner, automatically
regulating the amount of yarn sliding around the needle with very
little fluctuation. The magnitude of the force depends on the
coefficient of kinetic friction between the yarn and the needle. In
some cases, it is possible to calculate the force of kinetic
friction for any combination of yarn and needles, but it should
suffice to say that this force exists and exerts an influence on
the movement of yarn around the square needle. Some might argue
that yarn being pulled around a circular needle has the same
kinetic friction. It can be true, there can be kinetic friction
between the yarn and a circular needle, but (in some cases) is
generally not the same amount of friction. Since the areas of
actual contact on the square needle are often relatively small
(typically the 90 degree corners of a square needle hold the yarn
slightly above the four faces of the square), the pressures at the
points of contact (the corners) can be relatively high. In some
cases, a square needle or needle having a shaft with a cross
section having four points) creates more friction between the yarn
and the needle than a round needle may. Almost anyone who has ever
pulled a rope around both a square post and a circular post will
recognize that the rope around the square post has more tension. In
accordance with some implementations, the slight retarding of the
thread or yarn around the square needle helps the knitter regulate
tension automatically, mechanically, and evenly with little
fluctuation.
[0022] But kinetic friction is only part of the equation in the
quest for even tension. Human error, exacerbated by an inadequate
knitting system is often the reason a square needle alone is not
enough to guarantee good tension. This is where the "gully,"
depression, recess, slot, guide, furrow, trench, indentation,
and/or other groove comes in. Because there is a groove in one or
more faces (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or more), corners, or
surfaces of the shaft of some implementations of the described
needle, the knitter can utilize the groove to slide the tip (or
distal point) of the working needle into the groove, under the
right leg of the yarn (as applicable) and through the center of the
stitch on the resting needle with ease, capture the new working
yarn and then slide back the same way it went in, taking the
captured yarn with it. Boucle, textured, heirloom, novelty, and/or
any other similar yarns are no longer to be feared because some
implementations of the described groove have made room for them,
With some implementations of the described grooved needles, it is
no longer difficult to hold the tip of the working needle snuggly
against the shaft of the resting needle because the tip will be
held inside the groove on a lower plane than the loops of yarn. The
tip of the working needle can travel inside this groove under the
loops of yarn. Thus, in accordance with some implementations, the
chance of splitting the stitch has been significantly reduced and
the opportunity for even tension has been significantly
increased.
[0023] Often a knitter, when decreasing the stitches on the working
needle, needs to knit two or three stitches together, (k2tog or
k3tog) and bring them all, at the same time, under the right (or
another applicable) leg of the yarn and through the center (or
another appropriate portion) of the stitch on the resting needle.
This can be difficult, even for an experienced knitter. But when
the knitter utilizes the described groove to slip the combined
stitches back under and through the center of the stitch, the task
becomes much easier.
[0024] Another way that the described grooved needles (e.g.,
needles having one or more grooves and being triangular, square,
U-shaped, V-shaped, and/or any other suitable shape) work to
control tension is this: as the needle is turned, the knitter can
readily see the needle (and grooves) twist and/or roll. In this
regard, most, if not all, needles roll in the hands of the knitter.
When a needle rolls during the formation of a stitch, the needle
pulls the yarn with it in the direction of the roll, making the
stitches slightly bigger and/or slightly smaller depending on the
direction of the roll. When the needle rolls and how much the
needle rolls depends in part on the knitter and in part on the
needle and in part on the yarn. This roll can be hard to recognize
when using some round needles because the landscape of a round
needle does not necessarily change as it rolls or twists. But with
a grooved needle (as discussed herein), a knitter can see the
change as the needle rolls and control the roll to his or her
benefit.
[0025] Some implementations of the described grooved needles
include a circular knitting needle system, or a system that
comprises a pair of needles that are coupled together (in the case
of the described system, the term circular may simply connote two
grooved needles coupled together and not require that the system
form or comprise any circle). Indeed, in some implementations, the
described circular knitting system includes a pair of relatively
short (e.g., between 1 inch and about 14 inches, or any subrange
thereof, such as about 4 inches or about 114.31 mm), square (or any
other suitably shaped) needles that are coupled together and which,
in some implementations, are given a relatively slight concavity on
one or more faces (e.g., each face) of the sides of the needles. In
accordance with some implementations, a resilient coupler; a
non-resilient coupler; a smoothly woven, flexible cord, strap,
cloth or other object that comprises nylon, cloth, a strap,
leather, fabric, and/or any other suitable material connects the
two needles together. In some such cases, the needles are used for
knitting projects which involve very small circumferences as well
as knitting flat panels or working in the round. While such needles
can comprise any suitable material, in some implementations, the
needles comprise one or more hardwoods, bamboos, metals, nylons,
ceramics, polymers, synthetic materials, natural materials,
plastics, glasses, acrylics, carbon fibers, and/or any suitable
materials. In accordance with some implementations, the needles
have a deep, right angle (and/or any other suitable angled,
rounded, curved, and/or other suitably shaped) groove that is cut,
molded, ground, etched, and/or otherwise formed into the middle
(and/or other suitable surface) of one or more sides (e.g., each of
the sides of the needles) at about any suitable angle, including,
without limitation, at an angle between about 5 degrees and about
110 degrees, or within any subrange thereof (e.g., about a 45
degree angle). In some cases, the depth of the groove equals
between about 1/10 and about 9/10 , or any subrange thereof (e.g.,
about of the total depth (or thickness) of the needle's shaft,
though the groove can have any other suitable depth. In some cases,
one or more grooves begin between about 0.001 mm and about 50 mm,
or any subrange thereof (e.g., at about 11.69 mm) from the needle's
distal tip and continue between about 1 mm and about 300 mm, or any
subrange thereof (e.g., about another 31.57 mm) toward the proximal
end of the needle before ending.
[0026] In some instances, the distal tip of the needle transitions
or tapers from the grooved concave section to a point which is
between about 0.1 mm and about 20 mm, or any subrange thereof
(e.g., about 5 mm) in width or diameter, in some cases, the point
(or tip) is also radius-ed to any suitable size, including, without
limitation, to between about 0.01 mm and about 1 cm, or any
subrange thereof (e.g., about 0.25 mm). In some cases, the needles
are also made in sizes comparable to any or all US and European
sizes. Additionally, in some non-limiting implementations, the
grooves remain proportionately constant to the size of the
needle.
[0027] In some cases, the flexible cord (and/or other connector),
which is attached to the proximal ends of each needle (e.g., via
gluing, an adhesive, a threaded coupling mechanism, a clamping
mechanism, a friction fit mechanism, one or more fasteners, one or
more catches, via a weld, one or more clips, and/or in any other
suitable manner), is made of a smoothly woven, nylon, and/or other
suitable type of cord or material (e.g., parachute cord, string,
ribbon, and/or any other suitable cord). Additionally, although
some implementations of this coupling mechanism or coupler are at
least somewhat resilient or biased towards a certain position, some
other implementations of the coupler have little or absolutely no
bias or spherical, circular, semi-circular, bent, and/or curved
memory (e.g., the coupler comprises a non-resilient material).
[0028] Additionally, the coupler can be attached to the needles at
any suitable time and in any suitable manner. For instance, in the
case of some plastic (or other suitable) needles, the coupler is
fused into the described needles at the time of molding, additive
printing, and/or other formation. In the case of some wooden (and
other types of) needles, the smoothly woven, flexible, nylon cord
(and/or any other suitable connecting mechanism, coupler, or
connector) is attached with a glue-in method into a prepared void
in the proximal ends of each needle. In the case of some metal (and
other types of) needles, the smoothly woven, nylon cord (and/or
other suitable connecting mechanism) is attached with a clip-in
method or similar method which includes a swivel into a spherical
(and/or other suitably shaped) void prepared for the cord in the
proximal end of each needle. The cord may be of any suitable
length. In some cases, the knitting is held on the smoothly woven,
flexible nylon cord (or other coupler) between the two needles
without fear of dropping any stitches.
[0029] Using some implementations of the described grooved needle
comprising a circular knitting system (or circulars), a knitter is
able to close the pin-hole at the smallest point of a circumference
of a knitted work without changing to the clumsy DPNs. Because, in
accordance with some implementations, the smoothly woven, flexible,
nylon cord (and/or another suitable connector) has little or even
absolutely no bias or spherical memory it does not impede or get in
the way of the knitter. Indeed, in some implementations, the cord
(or other coupler) does not exert any undue force on the stitches,
does not pull the stitches out of shape and can bend over onto
itself or be pinched together without the threat of breakage or
permanent kinking. Additionally, in some implementations, the
smoothly woven, flexible nylon cord (or other coupler) does readily
twist and/or roll when the knitting needle rolls, which can be a
very useful characteristic.
[0030] The smoothly woven, flexible, nylon cord (and/or other
suitable connection mechanism) of the described circular knitting
system is also used, in some implementations, to detect needle
rolling and/or twisting. Indeed, in accordance with some
implementations, when a needle rolls and/or twists, the cord will
also twist if it is flexible enough (most often the twist happens
with the working needle.) This occurs frequently at the beginning
of a knitted piece when there are few stitches/loops in place. The
twisting of the smoothly woven, flexible cord (or other suitable
connector) can be readily recognized (e.g., as the cord twists,
binds, a pattern on the coupler twists, and/or the coupler
otherwise twists) and can act as a barometer, of sorts, of the kind
of knitting being produced by the knitter. Without this barometer,
some knitters may not understand what is happening and why the
tension is inferior. When a knitter sees the cord (or coupler)
twist, for example, a simple roll of the needle in the opposite
direction can bring the needle into the correct position in order
to avoid over or undersized loops/stitches. And if the knitter has
created a loop or stitch that is oversized or undersized, in some
cases, a simple twist of the needle executed while either entering
or exiting the stitch or loop will take extra yarn out of a loop or
put extra yarn into the loop. The ability to pull yarn into or out
of a loop is made possible, in some implementations, because of the
four corners of the square needle (or the corner or corners of any
other suitably shaped needle) and their ability to retard and
control the movement of yarn.
[0031] In some implementations, the described grooved needles hold
the yarn in place so that there is little or no "loosening" as one
knits the next stitch. This ability of the described grooved needle
to hold the yarn in place on the knitting needle can reduce the
need to fix the stitch by drawing extra yarn out of the loop. In
some cases, it also decreases the need to hold or "trap" the yarn
on the needle.
[0032] The combination of the needle (e.g., the square and/or other
suitable shaped needle) and the groove on the face of one or more
of the surfaces of the described needles (e.g., on each of the four
faces of a square needle) work together, in some implementations,
to automatically and consistently control tension and greatly
reduce the chance for human error. Indeed, in accordance with some
implementations, straight grooved needles and circular grooved
knitting needles give the knitter, whether old or young,
experienced or novice, the optimal environment for even
tension.
[0033] In accordance with some implementations, where two grooved
knitting needles are used together (either when coupled together or
when used without any coupling), the two needles can comprise one
or more features that allow the needles to be readily
distinguished. In this regard, some examples of such distinguishing
features include, but are not limited to, one of the needles
comprising a different color, shape, marking, identifier, and/or
other characteristic than the other needle. Indeed, in some
implementations, the two needles each comprise a different dominant
color. For instance, while one needle is red, the other needle can
be grey. In any case, where the two needles are readily
distinguishable, such a feature can serve any suitable purpose. By
way of example, by having readily distinguishable needles, a
knitter can easily remember which needle is the working needle.
[0034] In accordance with some implementations, the described
grooved needles are configured to be used to knit flat panels to
create sweaters, cowls, shawls, scarves, blankets, hats,
stockinettes, socks, gloves, jackets, and/or any other suitable
articles.
[0035] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will be set forth or will become more fully apparent in
the description that follows and in the appended claims. The
features and advantages may be realized and obtained by means of
the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the
appended claims. Furthermore, the features and advantages of the
invention may be learned by the practice of the invention or will
be obvious from the description, as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] In order that the manner in which the above recited and
other features and advantages of the present invention are
obtained, a more particular description of the invention will be
rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are
illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that the
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention
and are not, therefore, to be considered as limiting the scope of
the invention, the present invention will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0037] FIGS. 1A-1E illustrate various instances of tension and/or
uneven tension;
[0038] FIGS. 2A-2B (prior art) illustrate instances of yarn
splitting and conventional knitting;
[0039] FIGS. 3A-3B (prior art) illustrate examples of a set of
small double pointed needles overlapping end to end in order to
knit a piece having a small circumference;
[0040] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a grooved needle
in accordance with a representative embodiment;
[0041] FIGS. 4B-4D respectively illustrate cross-sectional views of
some embodiments of the grooved needle;
[0042] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view showing grooved
knitting needles in use in accordance with a representative
embodiment;
[0043] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the grooved knitting
needle in accordance with some representative embodiments;
[0044] FIG. 7 shows a portion of the grooved knitting needle having
a piece of yarn (or other material) wrapped around the needle in
accordance with a representative embodiment;
[0045] FIG. 8 illustrates a distal portion of the grooved knitting
needle in accordance with a representative embodiment;
[0046] FIG. 9 illustrates a proximal end of the grooved knitting
needle in accordance with a representative embodiment;
[0047] FIG. 10 illustrates a distal elevation view of the grooved
knitting needle with a piece of yarn wrapped around the needle in
accordance with a representative embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a representative
embodiment of the grooved knitting needle;
[0049] FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of the grooved knitting
needle in accordance with a representative embodiment;
[0050] FIG. 12B illustrates a distal elevation view of a
representative embodiment of the grooved needle;
[0051] FIG. 12C illustrates a proximal elevation view of a
representative embodiment of the grooved needle;
[0052] FIG. 13A illustrates a side view of a representative
embodiment of the grooved knitting needle;
[0053] FIG. 13B illustrates an enlarged view of a distal portion of
the needle of FIG. 13A;
[0054] FIG. 13C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the needle of
FIG. 13B taken along line N-N;
[0055] FIG. 13D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the needle of
FIG. 1313 taken along line O-O;
[0056] FIG. 14A illustrates a side view of a representative
embodiment of the grooved needle;
[0057] FIG. 14B illustrates an enlarged view of a distal tip of the
needle from FIG. 14A;
[0058] FIG. 14C illustrates a distal elevation view of the needle
from FIG. 14A;
[0059] FIG. 15A illustrates a side view of a representative
embodiment of the grooved needle, the needle being of any suitable
length;
[0060] FIG. 15B illustrates a distal view of the portion of the
needle from FIG. 15A, with such portion taken between lines P-P and
Q-Q;
[0061] FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of a proximal end of a
representative embodiment of the grooved needle;
[0062] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of two grooved
needles that are coupled together with a coupling mechanism;
[0063] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a representative
embodiment of the grooved needle having a tapered proximal end;
[0064] FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of a distal portion
of the needle from FIG, 18;
[0065] FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of a proximal end of
the grooved needle, the proximal end of the needle defining a
recess in accordance with some embodiments;
[0066] FIG. 21 illustrates a representative embodiment of a coupler
for coupling two grooved needles together;
[0067] FIG. 22 illustrates a plan view of a knitted material
prepared with two grooved needles that are coupled together;
[0068] FIG. 23A illustrates a perspective view of the grooved
needle comprising a portion of a coupler in accordance with a
representative embodiment;
[0069] FIGS. 23B and 23D each illustrate a side view of the grooved
needle in accordance with representative embodiments;
[0070] FIG. 23C illustrates a distal elevation view of the needle
from FIG. 23A;
[0071] FIG. 23E illustrates a proximal elevation view of the needle
from FIG. 23A;
[0072] FIG. 24A illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of a
representative embodiment of the grooved needle;
[0073] FIG. 24B illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of a
representative embodiment of the grooved needle;
[0074] FIG. 24C illustrates a distal elevation view of the needle
from FIG. 24A; and
[0075] FIG. 24D illustrates a distal elevation view of the needle
from FIG. 24B.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0076] Some implementations of the described invention relate to a
knitting needle. While this knitting needle can have any suitable
characteristic or component, in some cases, it defines a groove
that extends longitudinally along a length of an outer surface of
the knitting needle. In some cases, the groove opens near a pointed
end (or a distal end) of the grooved knitting needle. Thus, in some
cases, a tip of a second knitting needle can run longitudinally
through the groove, such that the tip of the second needle is able
to readily pass under a portion of yarn (or other material) that is
on the described grooved knitting needle. In some cases, a proximal
end of the described knitting needle comprises an object that is
wider than a width of a shaft of the needle so as to prevent yarn
loops from falling off of the proximal end of the needle. In some
cases, the described knitting needle is coupled with another
needle. While such coupling can be achieved in any suitable manner,
in some cases, the two needles are coupled together with a
non-resilient coupler. Additionally, in some instances in which the
grooved knitting needle is used with a second needle (whether or
not the two needles are coupled together), at least one of the
needles comprises a distinguishing feature that allows the two
needles to be readily distinguished. For instance, the two knitting
needles can be different colors.
[0077] While the described knitting needle can comprise any
suitable component or characteristic, FIGS. 4A-16 show that, in
some embodiments, the knitting needle 100 comprises an elongated
shaft 105 having a distal end 110 and a proximal end 115, where one
or more grooves 120 are defined in the shaft. Additionally, some
embodiments of the needle comprise an enlarged portion (or
enlargement 125) at the needle's proximal end 115. Additionally,
while some embodiments of the described needles are used
independently or without being coupled together (where such needles
may be referred to herein as straight needles), in some other
embodiments, two or more needles are connected together with a
coupling mechanism 130 (with such needles sometimes being referred
herein to as circular needles, circular needle systems, and as
variations thereof, see FIGS. 17 and 17-24D).
[0078] In accordance with some embodiments, the described grooved
needle 100 (or straight needle, where the needle is not coupled to
another needle) comprises a needle of any suitable cross-sectional
shape, including, without limitation, a square shape, a triangular
shape, a pentagonal shape, a cat-eye or cat-iris shape, a polygonal
shape, a four-pointed star shape, a three-pointed star shape, a
five-pointed star shape, a multi-pointed star shape, a
multi-cornered shape, a multi-process shape, an irregular shape, a
regular shape, an asymmetrical shape, a symmetrical shape, and/or
any other shape that allows the described needle to function as set
forth herein. Alternatively, sonic embodiments include the use of a
round (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4B), cylindrical, elliptical, and/or
otherwise rounded knitting needle 100 with a groove 120 or grooves
along its shaft 150; a triangular knitting needle with a groove or
grooves on one or more of its sides (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4C), a
star-shaped knitting needle (as shown in FIG. 4D), and/or any
knitting needle with a groove or grooves extending longitudinally
on one or more of the needle's sides or external surfaces. In some
embodiments, however, the described grooved needle (e.g., straight
needle) comprises a square knitting needle (e.g., as shown in FIG.
4A) that is configured to be used when knitting yarn 40 (or any
other material) into flat panels of fabric and/or for any other
suitable purpose.
[0079] While the drawings included herein (e.g., FIG. 4A) show
embodiments in which the shaft 105 of the grooved needle 100 is
substantially straight, in some other embodiments, the needle is
curved, bent, angled, and/or otherwise varies from being straight
throughout all or a portion of its longitudinal length (or the
length of the needle from its distal 110 to proximal 115 ends).
[0080] In accordance with some embodiments (and as mentioned), the
described knitting needle has a recessed portion, gully, gutter,
channel, depression, space between raised ridges or rails, channel,
and/or other groove 120 in one or more of its faces or external
surface. Indeed, in some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8 10,
11, 12A, 1213, 13A-13C, 14A-15B 17-20, and 23A-24D, a square
grooved needle 100 defines a groove 120 on each of its four sides
(or any other number of sides). That said, alternative methods
include cutting, milling, molding, and/or otherwise forming a
groove into the face of one side, two sides, three sides, or any
other suitable combination of the sides of the square knitting
needle or a knitting needle of a different shape.
[0081] The grooved needle 100 can be any suitable length. Indeed,
in some embodiments, the length of the described needle (e.g., a
straight needle) is between about 1 inch (25.4 mm) and about 18
inches (457.2 mm), or that is within any subrange thereof. Indeed,
in some embodiments, the described straight needle is between about
3 inches (76.2 mm) and about 11 inches (279.4 mm) long (e.g., about
9 inches (228.60 mm).+-.1 inch or 25.4 mm). Alternative embodiments
allow for other lengths of the straight, grooved knitting needles
may depend upon the strength of the material used.
[0082] The described grooved knitting needle 100 (e.g., straight,
grooved needle) can be manufactured to be virtually any suitable
size that allows it to function as described herein. In some
embodiments, however, the needle is manufactured in one or more
sizes equivalent to conventional round needles (e.g., from U.S.
size 3 through U.S. size 11, from European size 0 through European
size 11, and/or any other possible size). Alternative U.S. and
European sizes may also be considered and chosen.
[0083] In some embodiments, the described knitting needles 100 are
manufactured from one or more woods, bamboos, metals, nylons,
plastics, carbon fibers, ceramics, acrylics, natural materials,
types of glass, synthetic materials, and/or any suitable material
or materials.
[0084] The described straight knitting needles 100 can also be
manufactured in any suitable manner, including, without limitation,
via cutting, milling, molding, injecting, spraying, 3D printing,
additive manufacturing, extruding, stamping, pressing, shaving,
sanding, grinding, etching, deposition, and/or any other suitable
method that is applicable to the chosen material.
[0085] In some embodiments, the distal tip 112 of the described
knitting needle 100 (see e.g., FIG. 4A) transitions or tapers to a
pointed tip beginning any suitable distance from the distal end 110
of the needle. Indeed, in some embodiments, the straight knitting
needle transitions or tapers to a point beginning at between about
5 mm and about 80 mm or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 25.4
mm.+-.5 mm) proximally from the distal end of said needle and
narrowing distally into the distal tip, creating a point (or tip)
having any suitable diameter (or other shape). In some embodiments,
the distal tip has a diameter (or width) that is between about 0.1
mm and about 1 cm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 5 mm.+-.2
mm in diameter) Alternative ds allow, however, for a shorter or
longer taper and a larger or smaller tip or point dimension. In any
case, some embodiments of the distal tip are sized and shaped to
fit within, and slide through, the described groove 120.
[0086] In some embodiments, the distal tip 112 or point of the
knitting needle 100 (e.g., a straight needle) is radius-ed to any
suitable size. Indeed, in some embodiments, the distal tip is
radius-ed to between about 0.01 mm and about 1 cm, or any subrange
thereof (e.g., about 0.25 mm.+-.0.1 mm). Alternative methods allow
for a smaller or larger radius of the distal tip or point of the
described needle.
[0087] In some embodiments, the groove 120 on the described grooved
knitting needles 100 (e.g., straight grooved needles) begins at any
suitable distance from the needle's distal tip 112. Indeed, in some
embodiments, the groove begins at, and runs proximally from, a
distance between about 0.001 mm and about 50 mm, or any subrange
thereof (e.g., about 11.37 mm mm), from the distal tip of the
needle. In some non-limiting embodiments, the placement of the
groove on all other larger or smaller sized grooved knitting
needles is proportionate to the distal tip of the described square,
grooved needles. Alternative methods include beginning the groove
closer to the distal tip or farther from the tip of the square
knitting needle and/or a knitting needle of any other suitable
shape. Indeed, in some non-limiting embodiments, the groove begins
about 11.37 mm.+-.5 mm from the distal tip of the needle and
continues in a line substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis
108 of the shaft 105 of the needle any suitable distance,
including, without limitation, between about another 10 mm and
about 20 cm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., between about 50 mm and
100 mm in length or even about another 75.95 mm.+-.10 mm) toward
the proximal end 115 of the needle.
[0088] The groove 120 can extend any suitable depth into the
described knitting needle 100 that allows the needle function as
set forth herein. In some embodiments, the groove extends into the
needle between about 1/100 and 9/10 (or any subrange thereof) of
the total depth of the shaft 105 of the needle. In accordance with
some embodiments, however, the depth of the groove formed into one
or more faces of the knitting needle is between about 1/5 and about
1/3 (e.g. about 1/4) of the total depth of the knitting needle.
[0089] The grooves 120 in the described needle 100 can be any
suitable shape, including, without limitation, being angled,
rounded, curved, squared, rectangular, polygonal, oval, V-shaped,
U-shaped, dove-tailed, and/or any other suitable shape. In some
embodiments in which the groove or grooves formed in the needle are
angled (e.g., so as to have a V-shape), the grooves can be formed
in the needle so as to have any suitable angle between intersecting
walls of the groove. Indeed, in some embodiments, the inner walls
of the groove are disposed with respect to each other at an angle a
between about 5 degrees and about 160 degrees (or any subrange
thereof). In some embodiments, for instance, the groove is
approximately a 90 degree right angle that is cut, milled, molded,
and/or otherwise formed directly into the middle of the face on
each of the sides of the knitting needle 100 (see e.g., FIG. 15B),
Alternative methods are to cut, mill, mold, and/or otherwise form
the 90.degree. right angle (and/or a groove of any other suitable
angle and/or shape) nearer to either edge on the face of one of
more sides of the knitting needle (e.g., in four sides of a square
needle) or farther from either edge on the face of each of one or
more sides of the knitting needle or (as mentioned above) to create
a groove that is more than 90.degree. or less than 90.degree..
[0090] The groove 120 can run in any suitable direction that runs
longitudinally down a length of the needle 100 (e.g., by running
parallel with a length or longitudinal axis of the needle, by being
angled on the needle, by twisting around a portion of the needle,
by following a curved path, by having a zig-zag path, and/or by
otherwise extending down a length of the needle). By way of
non-limiting illustration, FIG. 4A shows an embodiment in which the
groove 120 runs substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 108
of the needle 100. Alternative methods, however, include placing
the groove at any angle other than parallel to the shaft on one,
two, three and/or any other combination of sides of the knitting
needle, Additionally, in some embodiments, there are more than one
groove on one, any, and/or all sides of the knitting needle. That
said, in some embodiments, one groove runs in a line that is
substantially parallel to the shaft of the needle, in the middle of
the face on each of the four sides of a square, straight, grooved,
knitting needle (see e.g., FIGS. 14A-14B).
[0091] In accordance with some embodiments, the described knitting
needles 100 optionally incorporate one or more shallow concavities
128 on one or more faces of the various sides of the knitting
needle, together with a groove 120 that is cut, milled, molded,
and/or otherwise formed into the concavity on the face of each of
the sides of the knitting needle (see e.g., FIGS. 14C and 15B). In
this regard, the concavities can extend any suitable amount into
the needles, including, without limitation, between about 1/10 0
and about 9/10 (or any subrange thereof) of the total thickness of
the needle's shaft. Indeed, in some embodiments, the concavity is
between about 1/20 and about 1/4 of the total thickness of the
needle.
[0092] In some embodiments, the concavity 128 spans a distance from
one edge (or corner) of the knitting needle 100 to an opposite edge
(or corner) of the knitting needle on the face of one or more sides
of the knitting needle. Alternative embodiments, however, include a
concavity which does not span the distance from one edge of the
knitting needle to the opposite edge of the knitting needle on the
face of each of the sides (e.g., on four sides) of the knitting
needle. In some additional alternative embodiments, the needle
includes a concavity which appears on the face of one, two, three,
or more sides, and/or any combination of sides of the knitting
needle with one or more accompanying grooves 120 disposed in one,
two, or more of the concavities (see e.g., FIG. 14C). In still
other embodiments, the needle defines one or more concavities which
do not include a groove in all (or in some to embodiments, any)
face of the sides of the knitting needle. In still other
embodiments, the needle includes a groove on only one, two, three
faces, and/or any combination of faces, on the sides of the
knitting needle. In some embodiments, however, the described
knitting needle comprises a shallow concavity on the face of each
of the four sides (or any other suitable number of sides) of the
knitting needle, together with a groove that is c milled, molded,
and/or otherwise formed into the concavity on the face of each of
the four (or any other suitable number of) sides of the knitting
needle. In some embodiments, the depth of the concavity on the face
of each of the sides of the described knitting needle, whether
presented with the described groove or not, is between about 0.001
mm and about 8 mm, or any subrange there of (e.g., about 0.04
mm.+-.0.02 mm). That said, alternative depths of the concavity on
the face of each of the sides of the straight knitting needle are
contemplated herein. In this regard, the concavity can perform any
suitable purpose, including, without limitation, causing corners of
the knitting needle to be somewhat more pointed to help increase
friction between the needle and yarn wrapped around it.
[0093] In some embodiments, the described knitting needle 100
(e.g., straight, grooved needle) optionally has a square cube, a
rectangular prism-shaped object, a ball, a figurine, a decorative
object, a prism-shaped object, a cross member, and/or any suitably
shaped object or enlargement disposed at the proximal end 115 of
the needle. By way of non-limiting illustration, FIG. 11 shows an
embodiment in which the proximal end 115 of the needle 100
comprises a cube-shaped enlargement 125. In any case, the object at
the proximal end of the needle can be any suitable size that allows
the object to prevent yarn (or any other suitable material) from
falling off of the proximal end of the needle during the knitting
process. Indeed, in some embodiments, the object disposed at the
proximal end of the needle is between about 1.1 and about 10 times,
or any subrange thereof, of the thickness of the needle itself. In
some embodiments, the object at the distal end of the needle is
between about 1.5 times and about 3 times as thick as the width or
diameter of the needle.
[0094] Where the described needle 100 comprises an enlargement at
the proximal end 115 of the needle, such object can be coupled to
the needle in any suitable manner, including, without limitation,
by being: integrally formed with, glued to, nailed to, fastened to,
friction fit with, threaded with, threaded to, printed with,
clipped to, mechanically engaged with, and/or otherwise formed with
and/or coupled to the needle. In any case, such enlargement can
comprise any suitable material, including, without limitation,
wood, plastic, acrylic, nylon, carbon fiber, metal, hardened
rubber, natural materials, synthetic materials, and/or any other
suitable material. Alternative embodiments to those described above
also use other shapes, manufactured from other materials, and/or in
other sizes which also function as an enlargement or stop to keep
yarn from falling off the proximal end. Alternatively, some
embodiments of the needle include no stop or enlargement at
all.
[0095] According to some embodiments, the described knitting
needles 100 are relatively short, square (and/or any other suitable
shape) knitting needles. While such needles can be used for any
suitable purpose, in some cases, they are used when knitting
projects that begin or end in a very tight circumference, such as
gloves, socks, small hats, small sleeves, etc. In some cases, they
are used for knitting "in the round" or they may be used to knit
flat panels. In some embodiments, these relatively short, square
(or otherwise shaped) needles have a groove 120 on the face of one
or more sides of the needles and are connected together at the
proximal ends of the knitting needles by a coupling mechanism or
coupler (e.g., a cord, a string; a woven, flexible, nylon cord, a
flexible rope, a ribbon, a piece of flexible fabric, a piece of
cloth, a strap, a cable, and/or any other suitable material). In
some embodiments, the coupler extending between two knitting
needles (e.g., circular needles) is mostly, if not completely,
unbiased, having no memory. Indeed, in some embodiments, the
coupler is non-resilient. By way of non-limiting illustration, FIG.
17 shows an embodiment in which a coupler 130 (e.g., a braided
nylon cord) joins two needles 100 together.
[0096] Although the drawings included herein show knitting needles
100 in circular systems as being square, alternative embodiments
include the use of relatively short, round, knitting needles with a
groove or grooves along the shaft, triangular needles with a groove
or grooves on one or more of its sides, and/or any polygonal or
suitable shaped knitting needle (e.g., as discussed. above or
otherwise) with a groove or grooves on one or more of its sides or
external surfaces.
[0097] In some embodiments, the length of each knitting needle 100
in the circular needle system is between about 1 inch (25.4 mm) and
about 12 inches (304.8 mm), or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 4
inches (or about 114.31 mm).+-.1.5 inches or 38.1 mm). Alternative
embodiments allow for other lengths of the knitting needles in
circular systems, but such lengths may depend upon the strength of
the material used.
[0098] The described needles 100 used in circular systems can be
any suitable size that allows them to function as described herein.
In some embodiments, the each of the knitting needles 100 in the
described circular knitting needle system is manufactured in one or
more sizes equivalent to conventional round needles--from U.S. size
3 through U.S. size 11, from Europe size 0 through European size
11, etc. Alternative U.S., European, and other sizes may also be
considered and chosen.
[0099] The described knitting needles 100 in the described circular
systems can comprise any suitable material. In some embodiments,
however, the knitting needle of the circular knitting systems (like
the other needles described herein) can comprises one or more
pieces of wood, bamboo, metal, nylon, plastics, polymers, rubbers,
carbon fibers, natural materials, synthetic materials, and/or any
other suitable materials that allow the needle to function as
intended.
[0100] Additionally, the circular knitting needle system can be
manufactured in any suitable manner, including, without limitation,
via cutting, milling, molding, injecting, spraying, extruding,
sanding, etching, polishing, 3D printing, and/or any other method
that is applicable to the chosen material.
[0101] In some embodiments, the distal tip of one or more of the
knitting needles 100 in the described circular knitting systems
transitions or tapers to a pointed tip (e.g., the distal tip 112)
beginning at a distance between about 5 mm and about 60 mm, or any
subrange thereof (e.g., about 25.4 mm.+-.5 mm) proximal to the
distal end 110 of said needle toward the distal tip 112 of the
needle, creating a pointed tip having any suitable diameter (or
other suitable shape or size). Indeed, in some embodiments, the
distal tip of needles in the described circular knitting system
(e.g., shown in FIG. 17) has a diameter (or width) that is between
about 0.1 mm and about 1 cm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 5
mm.+-.2 mm in diameter. Alternative embodiments allow for a shorter
or longer taper and/or a larger or smaller tip or point
dimension.
[0102] In some embodiments, the distal tip 112 or point of one or
more of the knitting needles in the described circular knitting
systems is radius-ed (or otherwise shaped) to any suitable size.
Indeed, in some embodiments, the distal tip is radius-ed to between
about 0.01 mm and about 1 cm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., about
0.25 mm.+-.0.1 mm). Alternative embodiments comprise a smaller or
larger radius of the distal tip and/or point of the described
needle.
[0103] In some embodiments, the groove 120 on the face of each of
the sides of the knitting needles 100 in the described circular
systems are cut, milled, molded, and/or otherwise formed into the
face of one or more of the sides (or surfaces) of the knitting
needle. Indeed, in some embodiments, a groove is cut, milled,
molded, and/or otherwise formed into the face of one side, two
sides, three sides, four sides, or any suitable combination of
sides of the knitting needle.
[0104] In some embodiments, the length of the groove 120 on the
described knitting needles 100 in the circular systems begins at
any suitable distance proximal to the needle's distal tip,
including, without limitation, between about 0.001 mm and about 50
mm, or any subrange thereof (e.g., about 11.37 mm.+-.2 mm) from the
distal tip of the needle, and continues toward the proximal end of
the needle in a line substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis
of the shaft 105 (or along any other path, as discussed above) of
the needle any suitable distance, including, without limitation,
between about another 5 mm and about another 500 mm (e.g., about
19.82 mm.+-.5 mm). In some embodiments, the placement of the
grooves on other larger or smaller sized knitting needles is
proportionate to the distal tip of the knitting needles.
Alternative embodiments include beginning the grooves closer the
distal tip or farther from the tip of the knitting needles.
[0105] The length of the groove on the knitting needles 100 in the
described circular knitting needle systems can (as discussed above)
be any suitable length, including, without limitation, between
about 5 mm and about 150 mm in length, or any subrange thereof
(e.g., about 31.57 mm long.+-.5 mm). In some embodiments, different
sizes of the described needles (e.g., circular needles) optionally
have similar groove lengths. That said, in some alternative
embodiments, the length of the groove varies to be any suitable
length along the shaft 105 of the knitting needle in the described
circular systems.
[0106] As discussed above, the groove 120 can extend any suitable
depth into the described knitting needle 100 used in circular
systems that allows the needles to function as set forth herein. In
some embodiments, the groove extends into one or more of the
needles between about 1/100 and 9/10 (or any subrange thereof) of
the total depth or thickness of the shaft of the needle. In
accordance with some embodiments, however, the depth of the groove
that is formed into one or more faces of the knitting needles in
circular systems is about 1/4 of the total depth of the
corresponding knitting needle. Alternative depths, however, are
contemplated herein.
[0107] The grooves 120 in the needles 100 of the described circular
knitting systems (as in the other grooved needles discussed herein)
can be any suitable shape, including, without limitation, being
angled, being rounded, curved, squared, rectangular, polygonal,
oval, V-shaped, U-shaped, and/or any other suitable shape. In some
embodiments in which the groove or grooves formed in the needle are
angled (e.g., are V-shaped), the grooves can be formed in the
needle so as to have any suitable angle between intersecting walls
of the groove. Indeed, in some embodiments, the inner walls of the
groove are disposed with respect to each other at an angle .alpha.
between about 10.degree. and about 160.degree. (or any subrange
thereof; see e.g., FIG. 15B). In some embodiments, for instance,
the groove is a 90.degree. right angle, cut, milled, molded, and/or
otherwise formed directly into the middle of the face of one or
more of the sides of the needles in the described circular knitting
needle system. In accordance with some alternative embodiments,
grooves are cut, milled, molded, and/or otherwise formed in one or
more of the needles as a 90.degree. right angle placed nearer to
either edge on the face of each of the sides of the needle or
farther from either edge on the face of one or more of the sides of
the needle, or a groove that is less than 90.degree. or more than
90.degree. is formed in the needle. The groove may be cut, milled,
molded, or otherwise formed into other shapes or configurations
(e.g., a rectangular groove, a circular groove, an ovular groove,
and/or any other suitable shape).
[0108] While the groove 120 may follow any suitable path in the
needle 100 of the described circular knitting systems (e.g., a
curved path, a zig-zag path, a twisting path, and/or any other
suitable path along the needle), in some embodiments, the groove
travels in a parallel line longitudinally along the shaft 105 of
one or more of the knitting needles in the circular system.
Alternative methods include placing the groove at any angle other
than parallel to the shaft on one, any or all sides of the needle.
Additionally, in some embodiments, there is more than one groove on
one, two, three, four, and/or any other suitable number of the
sides of the knitting needle.
[0109] In some embodiments, the knitting needles 100 in the
described circular systems incorporate a shallow concavity 128 on
the face of one or more sides of the knitting needles, together
with a groove that is cut, milled, molded, and/or otherwise formed
into the concavity on the face of one or more sides of the knitting
needle. In this regard, the concavities can extend any suitable
amount into the needles, including, without limitation, between
about 1/100 and about 9/10 (or any subrange thereof) of the total
thickness of the needle. Indeed, in some embodiments, the concavity
is between about 1/20 and about 1/4 of the total thickness of the
needle,
[0110] In some embodiments, the concavity 128 in needles 100 in a
circular system spans the distance from one edge of the knitting
needle to the opposite edge of the knitting needle on the face of
one or more sides of the knitting needle. Some alternative
embodiments, however, include a concavity which does not span the
distance from one edge of the straight, square (or other shaped)
knitting needle to the opposite edge of the knitting needle on the
face of one or more sides (e.g., on four sides) of the knitting
needle in the circular system. In some additional alternative
embodiments, the needle includes a concavity which appears on the
face of one, two, three, or more sides, and/or any combination of
sides of the knitting needle with one or more accompanying grooves
120 disposed in one, two, or more of the concavities (see e.g.,
FIG. 14C). In still other embodiments, the needle defines one or
more concavities which do not include a groove in all (or in some
embodiments, any) face of the sides of the knitting needle. In
still other embodiments, the needle includes a groove on only one,
two, three, four faces, and/or any other combination of faces, on
the sides of the knitting needle. In some embodiments, however, the
knitting needles used in the described circular systems comprise a
shallow concavity on the face of each of the four sides (or any
other suitable number of sides) of one or more of the knitting
needles, together with a groove that is cut, milled, molded, and/or
otherwise formed into the concavity on the face of each of the four
(or any other suitable number of) sides of the knitting needle.
[0111] In some embodiments, the depth of the concavity 128 on the
face of one or more sides of the knitting needles 100 in the
described circular knitting needle system, whether presented with
the described groove 120 or not (as in some of the other needles
described herein), is between about 0.001 mm and about 8 mm, or any
subrange thereof (e.g., about 0.04 mm.+-.0.02 mm). That said,
alternative depths of the concavity on the face of each of the
sides of the circular knitting needles are contemplated herein.
[0112] In some embodiments, the two knitting needles 100 in the
described circular system are joined together at their proximal
ends 115 via one or more cords, ropes, ribbons, strings, straps,
and/or other suitable connecting mechanisms or couplers. Indeed, as
discussed above, in some embodiments, a smoothly woven, flexible
nylon cord is used to connect two knitting needles at the proximal
ends of the needles. In some such embodiments, the cord has no
memory or spherical bias. Indeed, in some embodiments, the cord (or
other coupler) is non-resilient (or does not bias the two coupled
needles to be moved closer together or further apart from each
other).
[0113] Although the various needles 100 can be coupled to the
connecting mechanism or coupler 130 in any suitable manner (e.g.,
via glue; a knot; having the connection mechanism be looped around
a portion of the needles; injection molding; one or more threaded
engagements, clips, mechanical engagements, frictional engagements,
barbs, or other connectors; and/or in any other suitable manner),
in some embodiments, the connection of the smoothly woven, flexible
nylon cord (or other suitable coupler) to the proximal ends of two
grooved knitting needles comprising wood and/or any other suitable
material is accomplished by gluing the coupler into a spherical,
cylindrical, and/or other suitable shaped) void 135 (see e.g.,
FIGS. 20 and 24A-24B) at the proximal ends 115 of two of the
needles 100. In some alternative embodiments, however, the smoothly
woven, flexible nylon cord is connected into the proximal ends of
two wooden needles by methods other than gluing. Indeed, FIG. 24B
shows an embodiment in which the coupler 130 is frictionally and/or
mechanically connected to the needle 100 via a clip 137.
[0114] In some embodiments, the connection of the smoothly woven,
flexible nylon cord (and/or any other suitable coupler) to be
proximal ends 115 of two knitting needles 100 (e.g., needles in a
circular knitting system) wising carbon fiber and/or any other
suitable material is accomplished by attaching the cord (or
coupler) into a spherical or cylindrical void 135 at the proximal
ends of two of the needles prepared for the cord in any acceptable
manner for attaching objects to one another. In some alternative
embodiments, the smoothly woven, flexible nylon cord (and/or any
other suitable connection mechanism) is connected to the proximal
ends of two carbon fiber needles by other methods (e.g., one or
more frictional engagements, clamps, welds, etc.). In some
embodiments, the connection of the smoothly woven, flexible nylon
cord (or any other suitable coupler) to the proximal ends of two
grooved knitting needles (e.g., a circular knitting system)
comprising plastic, acrylic, nylon, and/or any other suitable
material is accomplished by over molding the cord into the body of
the needles during the injection molding process. In some
embodiments, an alternative glue-in method for connecting the
smoothly woven, flexible nylon cord (and/or other suitable coupler)
into one or more voids and/or any other suitable
receptacle/connection point that is prepared at the proximal ends
of two plastic, acrylic, nylon, and/or other suitable knitting
needles of a circular knitting system may be utilized.
[0115] In some embodiments, the smoothly woven, flexible nylon cord
(and/or any other suitable coupler 130) is connected to the
proximal ends 115 of two circular knitting needles (namely one or
more of the described grooved needles 100) that comprises aluminum,
stainless steel, nickel plated brass, platinum, and/or any other
suitable material by means of a multiple (e.g., two, three, four,
etc.) pronged clip 137 (see e.g., FIG., 24B), over molded onto each
end of the cord which is inserted into a void 135 in the proximal
ends 115 of each of the needles 100 which is prepared for the clip.
In this regard, the clip may or may not be manufactured to
swivel.
[0116] In some embodiments, the smoothly woven, flexible nylon cord
(and/or other suitable coupler 130) is flexible and has no memory
or spherical bias. In some such embodiments, the connection
mechanism comprises nylon, another material having one or more
attributes similar to nylon, and/or any other suitable material. In
one example, the coupler comprises any suitable material that
allows the cord to be able to bend onto itself without causing
noticeable damage to the cord. Some alternative embodiments utilize
other materials which have no memory or spherical bias and are able
to bend onto themselves without causing noticeable damage to the
connection mechanism or joint. In other words, while some knitting
systems comprise a resilient or semi-resilient connector that tends
to bias connected needles in on or more positions, some embodiments
of the coupler 130 are not resilient (e.g., comprise flexible cord,
cloth, twine, and/or any other suitable material).
[0117] In some cases, the diameter of the smoothly woven, flexible
nylon cord (and/or any other suitable coupler 130) that is prepared
for different sizes of grooved knitting needles (e.g., grooved
needles in a circular system) is relative to the void 135 in the
proximal ends 115 on each of the two knitting needles. Alternative
diameters may be chosen which fit into a void (and/or other coupler
or receptacle) prepared to accept the cord (and/or other coupling
mechanism) on the proximal end of the needles.
[0118] In some embodiments, the smoothly, woven, flexible nylon
cord (and/or other coupler 130) of the grooved knitting needles in
a circular system may be manufactured in various lengths,
including, but not limited to: being between about 2 inches (50.8
mm) and about 60 inches (1.524 m), or any subrange thereof (e.g.,
about 16 inches or 406.4 mm, about 24 inches or 609.6 mm, about 30
inches or 762 mm, etc.). Alternative sizes may be considered and
chosen. In some embodiments, the smoothly woven, flexible nylon
cord (or other coupler) may be interchangeable when used with the
clip 137 (and/or other suitable mechanism)
[0119] In accordance with some embodiments, the described grooved
knitting needle 100 (e.g., straight needles or needles that are not
coupled together at their proximal ends 115) is able to: enable a
knitter when working flat to control and improve tension; easily
knit with consistent, even tension, thus creating a beautiful
fabric; reduce human errors by providing a groove 120 on the face
of one or more of the sides of the needle, giving the working
needle increased ability to slide under the right (or other
suitable) leg of a stitch and through the center of the loop
without splitting the stitch; enable the knitter to decrease the
stitches (k2tog, k3tog, etc.) more easily; and/or enable a knitter
to "see" or be aware of one of the little known causes of uneven
tension: "needle roll," which gives the knitter power to control
this roll to their benefit.
[0120] In accordance with some non-limiting embodiments, the
described grooved knitting needles 100 (e.g., when used in circular
knitting system) are configured to: enable the knitter when working
"In the Round" or knitting small circular items, such as gloves,
socks, small hats, small sleeves, etc., to control and improve
tension; to easily knit with consistent, even tension, thus
creating a beautiful fabric; reduce human errors by providing a
groove 120 on the face of each of the sides of the needle, giving
the working needle increased ability to slide under the right (or
other suitable) leg of the stitch and through the center of the
loop without splitting stitches; enable the knitter to decrease the
stitches (k2tog, k3tog, etc.) more easily; allow the knitter to
close the small hole at the beginning or ending of a very small
circular project without having to switch to the clumsy DPN method;
avoid the numerous problems and weaknesses caused by using a
flexible connecting cord which has a memory or spherical bias;
and/or enable the knitter to "see" or be aware of one of the little
known causes of uneven tension: "needle roll," which gives the
knitter power to control this roll to their benefit.
[0121] In addition to the foregoing, the described grooved needles
100 can be modified in any suitable manner. Indeed, although some
embodiments of the needles are relatively straight (as illustrated
in the drawings), in some other embodiments, the needles are
curved, comprise a curved section, and/or are otherwise varied from
conventional needles (e.g., as mentioned above), while still
comprising at least one groove and/or concavity (as described
herein). In another example, some embodiments of the described
circular knitting system comprises one needle with grooves 120,
while the other needle is free from grooves.
[0122] In still another example, in some embodiments in which two
grooved needles 100 are used together (including, without
limitation, for straight needles or circular needles), at least one
of the two needles comprises a distinguishing feature that allows
the two needles to be readily distinguished. In this regard, some
examples of such distinguishing features include, but are not
limited to, one of the needles comprising a different color, shape,
marking, identifier, and/or other characteristic than the other
needle. Indeed, in some implementations, the two needles each
comprise a different dominant color. By way of non-limiting
example, while one needle is red, the other needle can be grey. In
any case, where the two needles are readily distinguishable, such a
feature can serve any suitable purpose. For instance, by having
readily distinguishable needles, a knitter can easily remember
which needle is the working needle.
[0123] In this regard, it is a common occurrence when knitting a
stockinette pattern (one row of garter stitches followed by one row
of purl stitches, repeated) on a pair of conventional knitting
needles to forget which of the two basic stitches (garter or purl)
a knitter has just employed. This forgetting may happen at any
time, including after the knitter has completed a whole row and is
about to begin a new row or when the knitter sets the work down for
a period of time and then comes back to the work to continue
knitting. When the knitter forgets, he or she will need to examine
the knitted work to discover which stitch has just been employed.
For a beginning knitter, however, it is often confusing to "read"
the knitted stitches. Thus, one solution to such a problem is
having the two needles be readily distinguishable.
[0124] By way of example, where two knitting needles (e.g., grooved
needles 100 and/or other needles) are readily distinguishable
(e.g., by having one needle have a first dominant color (or other
distinguishing feature), and the other needle have a second
dominant color (or other identifiable feature or lack thereof)),
the process of identifying the working and resting needles (and the
type of stitches that have already done) can be relatively easy. In
this example, if the knitter begins by knitting garter stitches
using a red needle, for instance, in the working position (where
the term working needle, working position, and variations thereof
may refer to a needle that is relatively free of loops and ready to
begin knitting new loops and is often, but not necessarily, held in
the dominant hand) and where the knitter is using a grey needle,
for instance, in the resting position, with the grey resting needle
having multiple loops waiting to be taken off (the resting needle
often being held in the non-dominant hand), and the knitter
continues knitting to the end of a row, the knitter will then have
all of the loops on the red needle which now becomes the resting
needle. In this example, the grey needle, which is now free of its
loops, becomes the working needle, and the knitter will then knit a
row of purl stitches. In this way, the knitter may see at a glance
which stitch to employ next. Indeed, in this example, when the red
needle is in the working position, the knitter will know to knit
garter stitches. In contrast, when the grey needle is in the
working position the knitter will know to knit purl stitches.
[0125] Continuing with this non-limiting example, if the knitter
sets the work aside before finishing a row and loops are left on
both the working needle and the resting needle, a simple glance at
which needle is connected to the source of the yarn will tell the
knitter which needle is the working needle. If, for instance, the
source yarn is connected to the red needle, the knitter will know
to continue the garter stitch. If the source yarn is connected to
the grey needle, the knitter will know to continue with the purl
stitch.
[0126] In accordance with some embodiments, the described system
and methods include having two grooved knitting needles 100 in
circular systems (or circular needles) be readily distinguishable
(e.g., by being a different color or otherwise being readily
distinguishable). In one non-limiting example, a knitter uses a
circular system having a red needle that is coupled to a grey
needle. In this example (and whether the knitter is knitting the
garter stitch or the purl stitch), if the knitter has chosen the
red colored needle as the working needle, the red needle will
always remain the working needle and the grey colored needle will
always remain the resting needle.
[0127] In addition to the aforementioned features, the described
systems and methods can provide one or more additional features. In
one example, by having the groove 120 in a first needle and having
a second needle be able to be inserted into the groove, below a
piece of yarn wrapped around the first needle, the described
grooved needles 100 allow users to easily knit while avoiding yarn
splitting 25. As a result, knitters can use some embodiments of the
grooved needles to knit with boucle yarns (or yarns that vary from
bring thick to thin), heirloom yarns, novelty yarns, standard
yarns, and/or any other type of suitable material, while avoiding
yarn splitting.
[0128] In another example, as yarn tension can be modified by
rotating a knitting needle, some embodiments of the described
grooved needles 100 that are polygonal (e.g., square and/or any
other suitable shape), define one or more grooves 120, and/or are
otherwise shaped as described herein, allow a knitter to readily
recognize when the needles roll (something that may be difficult
with some conventional cylindrical needles). Accordingly, in some
such embodiments, the knitter can better monitor and/or stop
unintentional needle rotation (and the accompanying changes in
tension).
[0129] As still another example, some embodiments of the described
grooved needles 100 (e.g., circular knitting systems comprising the
grooved needles) allow knitters to knit, with relative ease,
projects that have small radiuses (e.g., without the challenges of
double pronged needles or DPNs).
[0130] Additionally, while some conventional knitting systems that
have two needles coupled together typically have a semi-rigid yet
flexible cord (e.g., comprising solid nylon, plastic, steel cables,
and/or other materials that are biased towards a particular
position), some embodiments of the described circular knitting
systems comprising grooved needles 100 comprise a non-resilient
coupler 130 (or a coupler that is flexible and is not biased from
one side to another, at least when the coupler is not twisted).
Accordingly, unlike some conventional methods in which the
semi-rigid cord or cable tend to fail due to excessive bending and
kinking, some embodiments of the described circular knitting
systems can freely bend and kink without concern of the coupler's
failure.
[0131] Moreover, some conventional systems with two needles that
are coupled together by a semi-rigid, resilient, or semi-resilient
cord or cable can make it difficult to move the needles to desired
positions. Indeed, in some such cases, a knitter may feel that, to
some extent, the knitter is fighting with the semi-rigid or biased
cord which seems to have a mind of its own. In some such cases,
when a knitter needs to bring the two needle tips close together,
the conventional semi-rigid cord can exert a force on the stitches,
pulling them out of shape and creating large or otherwise ungainly
stitches. In contrast, some embodiments of the described circular
knitting systems comprising one or more grooved needles 100 can be
used with a non-rigid, non-resilient, and/or otherwise non-biased
coupler 130, which can allow for easy movement of the coupled
needles in the manner desired by the knitter.
[0132] Thus, some embodiments of the described invention relate to
a knitting needle. More specifically, while this knitting needle
can have any suitable characteristic or component, in some cases,
it defines a groove that extends longitudinally along a length of
an outer surface or the knitting needle. In some cases, the groove
opens near a pointed end (or a distal end) of the described needle.
Thus, in some cases, a tip of a second knitting needle can run
longitudinally through the groove, such that the tip of the second
needle is able to readily pass under a portion of yarn (or other
material) that is on the described grooved knitting needle. In some
cases, a proximal end of the described knitting needle comprises an
object that is wider than a width of a shaft of the needle so as to
prevent yard loops from falling off of the proximal end of the
needle. In some cases, the described knitting needle is coupled
with another needle. While such coupling can be achieved in any
suitable manner, in some cases, the two needles are coupled
together with a non-resilient coupler. Additionally, in some
instances in which the grooved knitting needle is used with a
second needle (whether or not the two needles are coupled
together), at least one of the needles comprises a distinguishing
feature that allows the two needles to be readily distinguished.
For instance, the two knitting needles can be different colors.
[0133] In addition to any previously indicated modification,
numerous other variations and alternative arrangements may be
devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the
spirit and scope of this description, and appended claims are
intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while
the information has been described above with particularity and
detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most
practical and preferred aspects, it will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including,
but not limited to, form, function, manner of operation, and use
may be made without departing from the principles and concepts set
forth herein. Also, as used herein, the examples, implementations,
and embodiments, in all respects, are meant to be illustrative only
and should not be construed to be limiting in any manner.
Additionally, any element or elements from any embodiment,
implementation, or drawing included herein can be combined with any
other element or elements from any other embodiment,
implementation, or drawing set forth herein. In addition, as the
terms on, disposed on, attached to, connected to, coupled to, etc.
are used herein, one object (e.g., a material, element, structure,
member, etc.) can be on, disposed on, attached to, connected to, or
coupled to another object regardless of whether the one object is
directly on, attached, connected, or coupled to the other object,
or whether there are one or more intervening objects between the
one object and the other object. Also, directions (e.g., on top of,
below, above, top, bottom, side, up, down, under, over, upper,
lower, lateral, medial, vertical, horizontal, distal, proximal,
etc.), if provided, are relative and provided solely by way of
example and for ease of illustration and discussion and not by way
of limitation. Furthermore, where reference is made herein to a
list of elements (e.g., elements a, b, such reference is intended
to include any one of the listed elements by itself, any
combination of less than all of the listed elements, and/or a
combination of all of the listed elements. Also, as used herein,
the terms a, an, and one may each be interchangeable with the terms
at least one and one or more.
* * * * *