Abstract:
A matched needle and bobbin thread tensions is a
major requirement of a seam and also to the quality of garment.
This paper describes an attempt on the development of an
automated needle thread tension regulating system for single
needle lock stitch sewing machine.
Historically, several experiments have been carried out to
measure the thread tensions of both needle thread and bobbin
thread of a lock stitch machine. However, no evident in favour of
the development of a device to adjust the needle thread tension
automatically. Despite a cyclic variation of the needle thread
tension, a needle thread regulation system is developed to
maintain an average needle tension during the cycle at a
predetermined level. The developed system can be installed on an
existing single needle lock stitch machine and capable of
maintaining the required correct thread tension profile for
sewing. The needle thread tension regulation system is a closed
loop system and with a load cell as a sensing device and a geared
DC motor adjusts the compression of the spring of the thread
tensioner. A visual display of thread tension is indicated on a
16X4 LCD display and the required needle thread tension is set
by 4x4 keypad. An Arduino board controls the electronic
equipment in the system.
