US4136306A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Apparatus for preparing pattern control tapes
Assignee: USM Corp
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Filing: 1977-07-13
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Granted: 1979-01-23
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Expires: 1997-07-13
Abstract
Abstract Apparatus is provided for digitizing a pattern by utilizing the computer controller and motor driver of an x-y table used in an automatic sewing machine. A manually operated control stick is installed on the machine and connected through the controller to send command signals to the motor drivers. A viewer is mounted on the machine to project a pattern, which is placed on the work surface of the x-y table, onto a small screen. The operator may then, through the use of the viewer and the control stick, move the x-y table through the desired pattern. Such movement is recorded in the computer for use in generating a control tape for the specific pattern.
Inventors
- 👤 Kenneth P. Westlund
- 👤 Patrick N. Kirwan
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-24 09:04
CPC Classifications
D; D05; D05B; D05B19/00; D05B19/02; D05B19/04; D05B19/08
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 3
Claim 1
Independent Claim
231 words
A sewing machine for digitizing a predetermined pattern and thereafter stitching the predetermined pattern on a workpiece, said sewing machine comprising: A. an x-y table for supporting a model of the predetermined pattern during a digitizing operation and for supporting a workpiece during the stitching operation; B. an optical viewing system mounted above said x-y table for projecting the model pattern on a viewing screen so as to enable an operator to view the model pattern; C. a manually-operated control means for generating signals relative to the desired movement of the x-y table during the digitizing of the model pattern; D. a computer adapted to receive the manual control signals and convert the manual control signals to drive signals; E. motor drive means adapted to receive the computer drive signals so as to perform the desired movement of the x-y table as dictated by the manually-operated control means; and F. recording means adapted to receive digitized information from the computer pertaining to the movement of the x-y table during the digitizing of the model pattern, said recording means being furthermore responsive to said computer for transmitting the digital information back to the computer during a stitching operation, said computer furthermore being operative to generate control signals to said motor drive means so as to subsequently cause the x-y table to be driven by said motor drive means during a stitching operation.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
231 words
A sewing machine for digitizing a predetermined pattern and thereafter stitching the predetermined pattern on a workpiece, said sewing machine comprising: A. an x-y table for supporting a model of the predetermined pattern during a digitizing operation and for supporting a workpiece during the stitching operation; B. an optical viewing system mounted above said x-y table for projecting the model pattern on a viewing screen so as to enable an operator to view the model pattern; C. a manually-operated control means for generating signals relative to the desired movement of the x-y table during the digitizing of the model pattern; D. a computer adapted to receive the manual control signals and convert the manual control signals to drive signals; E. motor drive means adapted to receive the computer drive signals so as to perform the desired movement of the x-y table as dictated by the manually-operated control means; and F. recording means adapted to receive digitized information from the computer pertaining to the movement of the x-y table during the digitizing of the model pattern, said recording means being furthermore responsive to said computer for transmitting the digital information back to the computer during a stitching operation, said computer furthermore being operative to generate control signals to said motor drive means so as to subsequently cause the x-y table to be driven by said motor drive means during a stitching operation.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
100 words
The sewing machine of claim 1 wherein the model of the predetermined pattern comprises a plurality of operating points which are to be successively registered with respect to said optical viewing system by manipulation of said manually-operated control means; and wherein said computer comprises: A. register means, responsive to the drive signals to the motor drive means, for tracking the movement of the x-y table between successively registered operating points; and B. memory means for storing the digital information from said register means relating to the tracked movement of the x-y table between successive operating points in the model pattern.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1982-01-22 | 1982-07-24 | 1983-01-23 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1986-01-22 | 1986-07-24 | 1987-01-23 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1990-01-22 | 1990-07-24 | 1991-01-23 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |