JP2544154B2 - Automatic embroidery machine - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Industrial field of application] The present invention enables data editing such as modification, deletion, or insertion of stitch data of an embroidery pattern stored in a memory to be performed with an arbitrary stitch. With regard to the automatic embroidery machine, in particular, during the embroidery sewing operation, the rotation of the sewing machine main spindle is temporarily stopped at an arbitrary stitch of the embroidery pattern, and data editing can be executed for a desired stitch related to the stopped stitch. By doing so, the present invention relates to an automatic embroidery machine that enables easy data editing while checking the actual embroidery pattern.

[Conventional technology]

In an automatic embroidery machine, sewing data corresponding to various embroidery patterns is stored in an external storage device such as a paper tape, and sewing data corresponding to a desired embroidery pattern is read and stored in a data memory. The embroidery sewing operation is executed based on the sewing data. In the conventional automatic embroidery machine, when changing the contents of the sewing data stored in the data memory, it is a special purpose for changing / correcting the sewing data that is completely different from the operation work mode in which the actual embroidery sewing operation is executed. It was done in the editing work mode of.
Therefore, if you try to edit the data after checking the actual embroidery pattern, the embroidery machine is once operated in the operation work mode, the embroidery sewing operation is executed from the start position of the embroidery pattern, and then the operation mode of the embroidery machine is changed. It was necessary to switch to the dedicated editing work mode and execute the desired data editing process.

[Problems to be solved by the invention]

In the conventional embroidery machine as described above, in order to change the content of the sewing data stored in the data memory, the operation mode of the embroidery machine must be set to a special editing work mode. It was not possible to continue the driving work mode in the middle of. Therefore, as an example of a procedure for changing the content of the sewing data, first, an actual embroidery sewing operation is executed over the entire pattern based on the sewing data, and the finished embroidery pattern is confirmed to make necessary changes. After confirming the correction points, the operation mode of the embroidery machine is changed to a special editing work mode for changing the data, and the edit processing for changing / correcting the sewing data at the desired points is performed and further edited. In order to confirm the sewing data, it was necessary to change the operation mode of the embroidery machine to the operation mode and start the embroidery sewing operation from the start position of the embroidery pattern. Therefore, the editing work, the embroidery sewing operation, and the pattern confirmation work are separated, and the work is complicated as a whole, which requires time and labor.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and in the middle of an embroidery sewing operation, the sewing operation is temporarily stopped at an arbitrary stitch of an embroidery pattern, and data editing is performed on a desired stitch related to the stopped stitch. By providing the automatic embroidery machine, which enables you to easily perform edit processing such as changing, deleting and inserting sewing data while checking the actual embroidery pattern in the process of embroidery sewing operation. Is what you are trying to do.

[Means for solving problems]

An automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention includes a readable / writable sewing data storage means for storing sewing data for realizing an embroidery sewing operation corresponding to an arbitrary embroidery pattern, and sewing data for each stitch from the sewing data storage means. To sequentially execute the embroidery sewing operation by moving the embroidery frame according to the read sewing data, and to temporarily stop the sequential reading of the sewing data from the sewing data storage means with the stitch in the middle of the embroidery pattern. Along with this, a stopping means for temporarily stopping the sewing operation and, when the sewing operation is stopped, the sewing data in the sewing data storage means are read out in the reverse direction in units of stitches based on the stitches for which the sewing operation is temporarily stopped. The stitch data storing hand is used to change, delete, or insert the stitch data relating to the desired stitch based on the stitches that have been created. A data editing means for performing relative, is obtained comprising a startup means for restarting sequentially reading and sewing operation of the sewing data that has been paused. This is shown in the drawing as shown in FIG. 1. 1 is sewing data storage means, 2 is embroidery sewing operation execution means, 3 is data editing means, 4 is stopping means, and 5 is starting means.

[Action]

The readable / writable sewing data storage means 1 stores sewing data for realizing an embroidery sewing operation corresponding to an arbitrary embroidery pattern. The execution means 2 sequentially reads the sewing data from the sewing data storage means for each stitch, and moves the embroidery frame according to the read sewing data to perform the embroidery sewing operation. When it is necessary to change the pattern corresponding to the stitch that has been embroidered during this sewing operation, the stop means 4 temporarily stops the sequential reading of the sewing data from the sewing data storage means at the stitch in the middle of the embroidery pattern. At the same time, the sewing operation is temporarily stopped. When the sewing operation is stopped, the data editing means 3 reads the sewing data in the sewing data storage means in the reverse direction in stitch units with reference to the stitch in which the sewing operation is temporarily stopped, and the read stitch is used as the reference. Then, the sewing data relating to the desired stitch is changed, deleted or inserted into the sewing data storage means. When the editing of the sewing data is completed in this way, the activating means then restarts the sequential reading of the temporarily stopped sewing data and the sewing operation. As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to easily perform edit processing such as change / deletion / insertion of sewing data while confirming the actual finish and texture of the embroidery pattern during the embroidery sewing operation.

〔Example〕

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an embodiment of a control system for an automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention. CPU11, program RO
The operation of the whole automatic embroidery machine is controlled by a microcomputer including M12 and working RAM13. Data RA
M14 stores sewing data for realizing a desired embroidery pattern and various other data related to embroidery sewing.

The operation panel 15 includes various setting switches, a display and the like. The paper tape reader 16 indicates the sewing data recorded on the paper tape (the position of the embroidery frame for each stitch.
Reads X, Y data and data directly related to embroidery sewing operations, such as function data for instructing each operation of the embroidery sewing machine such as color change, sewing machine main spindle stop, jump, etc. The paper tape 17 on which the sewing data to be realized is recorded is set. The sewing data read from the paper tape 17 via the paper tape reader 16 is transferred and stored in the data RAM 14.

The X-axis pulse motor 18 moves the embroidery frame 20 in the X-axis direction, and the Y-axis pulse motor 19 moves the embroidery frame 20 in the Y-axis direction. A drive signal is applied to the pulse motors 18 and 19 via a pulse motor driver 21.

The main spindle motor 22 drives the sewing machine main spindle 23 of this automatic embroidery machine to rotate.
The needle bar and shuttle are driven according to the rotation of 23. The rotary encoder 24 detects the rotation angle of the main shaft 23 (or the motor 22).

If one sewing head HD is a multi-needle lockstitch head, this head HD has a plurality of needle bars (threads of different colors are attached to the respective needle bars). The color-changing motor 25, by its rotational drive, selects one of the plurality of needle bars of the head HD so that it can be driven by the needle bar driving mechanism in the head HD. The needle bar drive mechanism moves the needle bar up and down according to the rotation of the sewing machine main shaft 23.
Since it is well known, it is not shown. Sewing head HD
Is not limited to one, and a plurality of may be provided.

The start / stop switch 26 is a bar switch, and when the bar is operated to the right, for example, the start switch is turned on.
When operated to the left, the stop switch is turned on. The rotation of the sewing machine main shaft 23 is started when the start switch is turned on, and the rotation of the sewing machine main shaft 23 is stopped when the stop switch is turned on.

The automatic embroidery machine is further provided with other devices and equipment, but their illustration is omitted. Each device that constitutes the control system of the automatic embroidery machine has an interface
Sends and receives signals to and from the microcomputer via the I / F.

FIG. 3 shows an example of switches and indicators provided on the operation panel 15.

The display unit DPY is used to display the data being set when setting various data, to display it for checking the contents of various set data, or to display other necessary information. And can also display characters and, if necessary, graphics. Display DP
Y can be used in several display modes, and as one of the display modes, there is a display mode for setting various data or confirming the setting contents. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the display DPY is a setting content display section DPY1 occupying a relatively large area in the upper part.
And the function switch explanation display section DPY2 below it
It works separately. For example, a liquid crystal display can be used as the display DPY.

Six function switches F below the display DPY
1 to F6 are provided. The above-described function switch description display section DPY2 performs display for explaining the function currently assigned to each of these function switches F1 to F6. Depending on the function allocation state for each of the function switches F1 to F6, the five function switches F1 to F5 on the left side are function switches corresponding to substantial various data setting functions and the like, and the remaining switch F6 is a next candidate (NEXT) selection key. May function as The function switch explanation display section DPY2 consists of six display frames corresponding to the function switches F1 to F6, and the display frames corresponding to F1 to F6 show the functions currently assigned to the function switches F1 to F6. A descriptive display (eg, this display will consist of characters such as "data entry" or "procon") will appear. In that case,
If the function switch F6 is functioning as a next candidate selection key, a display "NEXT" explaining the next candidate selection key function appears in the display frame corresponding to F6.

The function menu section MENU arranged on the right side of the display DPY is a list in which displays indicating all data setting functions that can be assigned to the function switches F1 to F6 are visually and fixedly displayed. The function menu section MENU includes a program mode menu PRO.MENU and an operation mode menu RUN.MENU. The program mode menu PRO.MENU displays all functions that can be assigned to the function switches F1 to F6 in the program mode. The operation mode menu RUN.MENU
In the operation mode, each function switch F1 to F6
All functions that can be assigned to are displayed.

The program mode is a setting of various data related to an embroidery sewing program for realizing a desired embroidery pattern (for example, input of sewing data corresponding to a desired embroidery pattern, that is, “data input” or a thread color change procedure). This is a mode for performing setting, that is, “program control”. The operation mode is a mode in which various operating conditions (for example, the number of revolutions of the sewing machine spindle) are set prior to the start of operation of the embroidery machine.

The display changeover switch SW1 is for switching the display mode of the display DPY. For example, as shown in the figure, the setting content display section DPY1 and the function switch explanation display section DPY
This display changeover switch SW1 is operated when switching from the display mode using the display unit separately to Y2 to another display mode.

The program mode switch SW2 is a switch operated when setting the operation mode of the embroidery machine to the program mode.

The operation mode switch SW3 is a switch operated when setting the operation mode of the embroidery machine to the operation mode.

The frame movement key switch FKY is a switch operated when the embroidery frame 20 is moved manually. The numeric key switch TKY is a switch for inputting various numerical data. The setting confirmation switch SW4 is a switch operated when confirming the setting contents in various data setting operations. Set switch SW5 is a numeric key switch TKY
It is operated when registering the numerical data input by the user or when the function setting is completed, and functions as a return key.

Next, among the operations executed by the automatic embroidery machine of FIG. 2 under the control of the microcomputer, the operation of the part particularly related to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIG. 4 and subsequent figures.

When the power of the automatic embroidery machine is turned on, as shown in FIG. 4, first, a predetermined initial routine is performed and then a sewing machine spindle stop routine is performed. Various data setting processing operations are executed in this sewing machine spindle stop routine. This sewing machine spindle stop routine is always executed when not in operation, and when the start switch is turned on by the start / stop switch 26,
Move to the driving routine. In the operating routine, the sewing machine spindle 23
Is driven, and the sewing data for each stitch is sequentially read from the sewing data memory area SME in synchronization with one rotation of the main shaft, and the embroidery sewing operation is performed based on this.

An example of a sewing machine spindle stop routine is shown in FIG.
This will be described with reference to FIG. First, in the stop initial routine shown in FIG. 5A, a predetermined initial process is performed when the sewing machine is stopped. In the next step 30, whether the operation mode is the operation mode or the program mode is checked based on the content of the operation mode flag. As will be described later, the operation mode becomes the program mode by turning on the program mode switch SW2, and becomes the operation mode by turning on the operation mode switch SW3.

If it is in the program mode, the process proceeds to the routine from step 31 onward, and various data setting processes in the program mode are performed. Selection of various data setting modes in the program mode is performed by operating the function switches F1 to F6 as follows.

In the program mode, the screen of the display DPY first becomes as shown in FIG. 3, and the function switch explanation display portion DPY2 displays the explanation of the modes A to E in the program mode. When the function switch F6 is pressed to select the next candidate, the function switch explanation display portion DPY2 is switched to a screen displaying the explanation of the modes F to J in the program mode. When the function switch F6 is further pressed to select the next candidate, the function switch explanation display portion DPY2 is switched to the screen for displaying the explanation of the modes K to M in the program mode. In this way, the function switch description display section DP
The Y2 screen is set to a state in which the explanation of the desired data setting mode (for example, items A to M) in the program mode is displayed, and then the desired data setting mode (for example, items A to M) displayed on the screen is displayed. The desired data setting mode (for example, one of items A to M) is selected by operating one of the function switches F1 to F5 corresponding to the explanation display. In the flow charts of FIGS. 5 (a) to 5 (c), the display unit DPY is shown for simplification of description.
The process steps for performing a predetermined display on the screen, detecting the operation of the function switch F6, and switching the display are omitted.

In step 31, it is checked whether "data input setting switch is on". Here, in order to select the mode of item A, that is, the "data input setting mode", the function switch F1 corresponding to the item A is turned on while the explanation of items A to E is displayed on the function switch explanation display portion DPY2. Check whether it has been done. The "data input setting mode" is to fetch the sewing data corresponding to a desired embroidery pattern from the paper tape 17 (this is called "memory writing mode") or read it from the data RAM 14 (this is called "memory reading mode"). This is a mode for setting whether or not to use. If YES, the display content of the function switch description display section DPY2 is switched to the lower display in the "data input setting mode", and step 32
Move on to. In this case, the function switch explanation display section
On the DPY2, as a lower display in the "data input setting mode", the display showing the "memory read mode" is displayed corresponding to the function switch F1, and the display showing the "memory write mode" is displayed corresponding to the function switch F2. To do.

In step 32, it is checked whether the function switch F1 has been turned on, that is, whether the "memory read mode" has been selected. When the sewing data stored in the predetermined address area of the data RAM 14 is read, the function switch F1 is turned on and the "memory read mode" is selected. When desired sewing data is read from an external storage device such as a paper tape and transferred to and stored in the data RAM 14, the function switch F2 is turned on and the "memory writing mode" is selected. If the function switch F1 is turned on, the display content of the function switch description display portion DPY2 is switched to the "reading pattern number setting mode" and the process goes to step 40. When the function switch F2 is turned on, the display content of the function switch description display section DPY2 is switched to the “memory writing pattern number setting mode”, and the process proceeds to step 33.

In step 33, the number of the embroidery pattern for "writing to memory" is set and input by the ten-key switch TKY.
The embroidery pattern number is a number arbitrarily set and assigned to the embroidery pattern when, for example, the sewing data corresponding to the desired embroidery pattern is read from a paper tape and registered in the data RAM 14. The pattern number set and inputted is stored in a predetermined address area of the data RAM 14, and at the same time, the head address of the data memory address DMA for writing the sewing data corresponding to the pattern number is determined by the computer, and the head address is determined by the computer. The data is stored at a predetermined address in the data RAM 14 corresponding to the pattern number.

In the next step 34, it is checked whether or not the tape start switch has been turned on, and the process waits until it is turned on. It is checked whether any of the function switches displayed as "tape start switch" on the function switch explanation display portion DPY2 is turned on. When the tape start switch is turned on, the process proceeds to step 35.

In step 35, the start address of the address area for storing the sewing data corresponding to the pattern number currently being processed is designated as an address (data memory address DMA) to be written in the data RAM 14, and the process proceeds to the next step 36.

In step 36, the paper tape 17 is read by the paper tape reader 16.
The sewing data (X, Y data and function data) for one stitch recorded in is read.

In the next step 37, the sewing data for one stitch read in step 36 is designated by the data memory address DMA in the address in the data RAM 14 (this is initially designated as the top address of the sewing data area corresponding to the pattern number concerned). Has been written to the data memory address DM
Step A up by one stitch.

In the next step 38, the paper tape reader 16
It is checked whether the content of the function data in the sewing data for one stitch read by is an end code indicating the end of the embroidery pattern. If not yet finished,
Returning to step 36, the same processing of steps 36 to 38 as described above is repeated for the next stitch.

Data RA that stores the sewing data corresponding to the pattern number
Predetermined address area of M14 (sewing data memory area)
When the stitching data of all stitches has been imported to the
go to.

On the other hand, in step 40, the pattern number corresponding to the desired embroidery pattern to be read from the data RAM 14 is input and set by operating the numeric key switch TKY, and the process proceeds to the next step 41.

In step 41, setting processing of various other data in the program mode is performed.

In step 42, it is checked whether the operation mode switch SW3 has been turned on. If NO, the process returns to step 31 and the program mode process is repeated.

When the operation mode switch SW3 is turned on, the operation mode is switched from the program mode to the operation mode. Immediately after switching to the operation mode, the data memory address DMA for reading the sewing data from the data RAM 14 is set to the head address corresponding to the first stitch of the design, and various data initials for starting the embroidery sewing operation are set. The conversion process is performed (step 43 in FIG. 5 (b)).

In the next step 44, the count value of the stitch counter is reset to "0". The stitch counter indicates the order of each stitch for performing the embroidery sewing operation.

In the next step 45, initialization preparation processing of other data for starting the embroidery sewing operation is performed.

In step 46, it is determined whether the program mode switch SW2 is turned on. If the switch SW2 is turned on, this step 46 becomes YES and the process returns to step 31,
The routine for the desired data setting process in the program mode described above is repeated. If the switch SW2 is not turned on, this step 46 is NO
Go to 47.

In the next step 47, it is determined whether or not the stitch back switch is turned on. Stitch back switch on,
It is turned on by keeping the start / stop switch 26 in the stop switch on state. If YES, go to step 80 and perform stitch back processing. On the other hand, if NO, go to step 48 to perform a routine for desired data setting processing in the data edit mode.

In step 80, it is checked whether the count value of the stitch counter is "0". That is, it is checked whether the embroidery frame 20 is at the start position of the embroidery pattern. If the count value is "0", step 80 is YES, the process jumps to step 48, and the stitch back operation is not performed. On the other hand, if the count value is not "0", step 80 is NO and the process goes to step 81.

In step 81, one stitch is subtracted from the current count value of the stitch counter.

In the next step 82, the data memory address DMA is set to 1
The stitch data is returned and the stitch data for one stitch is read from the address.

In the next step 83, the embroidery frame 20 is driven in the reverse direction (by only -X, -Y) so as to return based on the stitch data (X, Y) for one stitch read in step 82, and one stitch Perform stitch back operation. Next, returning to step 47, check whether the stitch back switch is still turned on, and if it is turned on, the above-mentioned step 47 to step
83 Repeat the process.

In FIG. 5 (c), in step 48, it is checked whether the function switch F3 functioning as the “data edit mode switch” is turned on while the display DPY in the operation mode is as shown in FIG. 12 (a). to decide. When editing the sewing data stored in the data RAM 14, the switch F3 is turned on. Then, the display on the display DPY is switched as shown in FIG. 12, and a desired data edit mode can be selected by turning on any function switches F1 to F3. Function switch F1
Functions as a switch operated to set a "data change" mode for changing the sewing data during work. The function switch F2 functions as a switch operated to set the "deletion of sewing data during work" mode setting. The function switch F3 newly inserts another sewing data into the sewing data being worked. Functions as a switch operated to set the "data insertion" mode. The function switch F6 also functions as an end switch for exiting the "edit mode". This Step 48
Then, if the function switch F3 functioning as the "edit mode" setting switch is turned on, the process proceeds to step 49, and if not, the process proceeds to step 53.

In step 49, it is judged whether or not the function switch F1 functioning as the "data change mode" switch in FIG. 12 (b) is turned on. When the switch F1 is turned on, the process goes to a subroutine (FIG. 6) for performing the data change processing step 400 described later. If the switch is not turned on, step 49 becomes NO and the process goes to step 50.

In step 50, it is checked whether the function switch F2 functioning as the "data deletion mode" switch is turned on. When the switch F2 is turned on, the process goes to a subroutine (FIG. 7) for performing the data deleting process (step 500) described later. If the switch is not turned on, go to step 51.

In step 51, it is checked whether the function switch F3 functioning as the "data insertion mode" setting switch has been turned on. When the switch F3 is turned on, the process goes to a subroutine (FIG. 8) for performing a data insertion process (step 600) described later. If the switch F3 is not turned on, the process goes to step 52.

In step 52, it is checked whether or not the function switch F6 which functions as a switch for declaring the end of data editing is turned on. When the switch F6 is turned on, this step 52 becomes YES, the screen of the display DPY is switched to the first display state in the operation mode, and the process proceeds to step 53. If the switch F6 is not turned on, this step
52 becomes NO, and the procedure returns to step 49 and step 49 described above is executed.
Repeat the process from ~ 52.

In step 53, other various data setting processing in the operation mode is performed.

In the next step 54, it is checked whether the start switch is turned on by the start / stop switch 26. If the start switch is on, the process returns to the main routine to enter the operation routine (Fig. 9). If the activation switch is not turned on, the process returns to step 46 and the above-described various processes of steps 46 to 54 are repeated.

Next, the data change subroutine in the "data edit mode" of the stop routine shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step 401, the embroidery pattern (that is, the fifth
Of the sewing data corresponding to the embroidery pattern corresponding to the pattern number set in step 33 or 40 of Fig. (A), the desired change value of the X-axis drive data for the current stitch is input by operating the ten-key switch TKY. Set.

In the next step 402, similarly to step 401, the desired change value of the Y-axis drive data regarding the current stitch is input and set, and the process proceeds to the next step 403.

In step 403, similar to steps 401 and 402, the function data (F
Input and set a desired change code (abbreviated as data).

In the next step 404, it is determined whether or not the function switch F6 functioning as the change “end switch” in the function switch explanation display portion DPY2 is turned on. When the input setting of the desired X, Y, F data change value or change code for the current stitch is completed, the function switch F6 functioning as a change "end switch" is turned on. If the switch is on, the procedure goes to step 405, and if the switch is not on, the procedure returns to the "data edit mode" routine.

In step 405, the input and changed data is written to the address of the data RAM 14 designated by the current data memory address DMA (that is, the address corresponding to the current stitch).

The "current stitch" is the data RAM1.
This is the stitch corresponding to the address currently designated by the data memory address DMA of 4, and is the stitch next to the stitch that performed the embroidery sewing operation immediately before entering this stop routine (that is, the stitch to be sewn from now on). Alternatively, it is a stitch returned by the stitch back processing in steps 47 and 80 to 83.

Next, the deletion subroutine in the "data edit mode" will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step 501, it is checked whether or not the count value of the stitch counter is "0". That is, it is determined whether the current embroidery frame 20 is at the sewing operation start position. If the count value is "0", this step 501 becomes YES and the routine returns to the "data edit mode" routine. This is because the data deletion is performed for the stitch one stitch before the "current stitch", and therefore the data cannot be deleted because there is no 0 stitch. If it is not "0", this step 501 becomes NO and the process goes to step 502.

In step 502, the count value of the stitch counter is decremented by 1.

In the next step 503, the data memory address DMA is set to 1
Bring back the stitch.

In the next step 504, one stitch of stitch data is read from the address of the data RAM 14 designated by the data memory address DMA.

In the next step 505, the embroidery frame 20 is driven by -X and -Y in the reverse direction based on the X and Y axis drive data of the sewing data read from the data RAM 14 in step 504 to output one stitch of the embroidery 20. Return by the minute.

In the next step 506, one stitch of deletion data (X = FFH, Y = FFH, F = FFH, where FFH is the maximum value of 2 digit hexadecimal number) is written to the address of the data RAM 14 designated by the data memory address DMA. . That is, the sewing data (X, Y, F) for the desired one stitch to be deleted is rewritten to FFH, and as blank data so as not to execute the embroidery sewing operation with the stitch, the data edit mode routine is executed. It returns.

Next, the data insertion subroutine in the "data edit mode" will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In step 601, the number N of stitches of desired sewing data to be inserted is input and set by the ten-key switch TKY.

In the next step 602, the current data memory address D
The data from the address of the data RAM 14 designated by the MA to the end address of the sewing data is moved backward by the address area corresponding to the number N of inserted stitches input and set in step 601. In this way, a space for the number N of inserted stitches is created.

In the next step 603, the current data memory address D
The address of the data RAM 14 designated by MA is set as a write address WAD which designates an address for writing desired sewing data to be inserted.

In the next step 604, it is determined whether the stitch number N input and set in step 601 is "0". That is, it is determined whether or not there is sewing data to be inserted. Here, since the condition of N <1 is satisfied, this step 604 becomes YES and the routine proceeds to step 65. If N20 is reached after writing all the sewing data to be inserted into the data RAM 14, the step 604 becomes YES and the process returns to the "data edit mode" routine.

In step 605, the desired one stitch of stitching data (X, Y, F) to be inserted is input and set by operating the ten-key switch TKY.

In the next step 606, the sewing data input and set in step 65 is written in the address of the data RAM 14 designated by the write address WAD.

At the next step 607, the write address WAD is advanced by one stitch.

In the next step 608, 1 is subtracted from the stitch number N input and set in step 601, the process returns to step 604, and step 60 is executed until the input setting of the sewing data to be inserted is completed.
The processes of 4 to 608 are repeated.

Next, various operations of the operation routine in the main routine of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIG. 9 and subsequent figures.

As shown in FIG. 9, first, a predetermined initial process is executed, and then the process proceeds to step 60.

 In the next step 60, the spindle motor 22 is started.

In the next step 61, various operation processes for embroidery sewing operation are executed.

In the next step 62, it is checked whether the sewing machine spindle stop completion flag is set. If the flag is set, step 62 becomes YES and the process returns to the main routine. If the flag is not set, this step 62
Becomes NO and goes to step 63.

In step 63, it is determined whether the sewing machine spindle stop condition is satisfied. When the start / stop switch 26 is in the stop switch ON state or a thread breakage occurs, it is determined that the sewing machine spindle should be stopped. Even when the content of the function data is a color change code or an end code indicating the end of the embroidery pattern, it is determined that the sewing machine spindle should be stopped. When step 63 is YES, it goes to step 68, and when it is NO, it returns to step 61.

In step 68, the sewing machine spindle stop request flag is set and the stop counter "2" is set, and the process proceeds to the next step 69.

In step 69, the sewing machine spindle motor 22 is decelerated, the routine returns to step 61, and the routine for executing various operation processes is repeated.

When a clock signal is given from the rotary encoder 24 during the processing of this sewing machine spindle operation routine, the processing is interrupted each time and the process proceeds to the encoder clock interrupt subroutine as shown in FIG.

In the encoder clock interrupt subroutine, after incrementing the encoder counter by one (step 301), it is sequentially judged which processing timing corresponds to the count value (302, 30).
3) Perform processing according to each timing. At the timing of moving the embroidery frame, the X, Y data and function data corresponding to the current embroidery stitch are read from the data RAM 14 according to the output of the stitch counter (step 304). It is checked whether the read data content is the data (X = FFH, Y = FFH, F = FFH) for which the data deletion processing has been executed (step 351). If YES, the data memory address DMA is advanced by one stitch. (Step 352) Step
Returning to 304, the process of reading the sewing data for one stitch from the data RAM 14 is repeated. In this way, the data memory address DMA is advanced until the data of the deleted data is read. When the content of the sewing data read from the data RAM 14 is not the data for which the data deletion processing has been executed, the embroidery frame 20 is moved in the XY direction according to the X and Y data (step 35
3) After that, the stitch counter is advanced to the next stitch (step 354), the data memory address DMA is advanced by one stitch (step 355), and the process returns to the main operation routine. Further, at the sewing machine spindle stop timing, it is checked whether or not the sewing machine spindle stop request flag is set (step 307). If YES, the stop counter is counted down by 1 and it is determined whether or not the count value becomes zero. (Steps 308, 30
9) When the count value reaches zero, the sewing machine spindle motor 22
And the sewing machine spindle stop completion flag is set (step 310).

Other processing such as jump control is executed in other embroidery timing processing (step 311).

Further, when the origin signal is given from the rotary encoder 24 during the processing of the sewing machine spindle operation routine, the processing is interrupted each time, and the process proceeds to the encoder origin interrupt subroutine as shown in FIG. 11 to reset the encoder counter (step 451). ).

In the above configuration, the operation procedure in the "data edit mode" for changing, deleting or inserting new data of the pattern (that is, sewing data) of the embroidery pattern being worked will be described as follows.

When changing the pattern of a certain embroidery pattern during execution of the sewing operation, the start / stop switch 26 is operated to turn on the stop switch to stop the rotation of the sewing machine main shaft and stop the main routine in FIG. And set the operation mode of the embroidery machine to the operation mode (step 30). The display state of the display DPY in this operation mode is shown in Fig. 12 (a).
, The function switch F3 that functions as a "data edit mode switch" is turned on (step 48), the mode is switched to the mode for executing data edit, and the display state of the display DPY is changed as shown in FIG. 12 (b). ). Then, by turning on an arbitrary function switch, it becomes possible to perform a desired editing process on the sewing data in operation stored in the data RAM 14.

First, the operation of the data change process will be described with reference to the memory map of FIG. Address area P
Is an address area of the data RAM 14 in which the sewing data for which the embroidery sewing has been completed has been stored. At the last address E of the address area P, stitch sewing data at the time when the sewing machine spindle is stopped to execute the data change process is stored. After the embroidery frame drive data output of this last stitch (that is, address E) is completed,
Since the data memory address DMA is stepped to the next address (step 355), the current data memory address DMA
The address Q designated by is the address next to the address E, and the address Q stores the sewing data for performing the sewing operation with the next stitch. The content of the sewing data for one stitch stored at this address Q is changed. New sewing data (X, Y, F) to be changed is input and set by operating the ten-key switch TKY (steps 401 to 403). After that, by turning on the function switch F6 that functions as a data input "end switch" (step 404),
The input data is written in the address Q. That is,
Address Q where the sewing data of the next stitch is stored
The data content of is rewritten and the embroidery sewing operation is continuously executed again from this address Q.

Next, the operation of the data deleting process will be described with reference to the memory map of FIG. 13 (b).

The address Q is the address designated by the current data memory address DMA, and is the address next to the final address E when the embroidery frame drive data output is completed when the sewing machine spindle is stopped to execute the data deletion process. . At the address E, the sewing data of the stitch that has been sewn at the time of stop is stored, and this data is to be deleted. The count value of the stitch counter is decremented by "1" and the data memory address DMA is returned by one stitch, and the stitch data for this one stitch is data RA.
Read from M14 (steps 501-503). The embroidery frame 20 is driven in the -X and -Y axis directions based on the read sewing data (step 505) to return the embroidery frame 20 by one stitch. Then, the sewing data for one stitch at the address E designated by the data memory address DMA is rewritten to the deletion data (X = FFH, Y = FFH, F = FFH). By writing the deletion data, all the sewing data of the stitch function as invalid data.

Next, the operation of the data insertion process will be described with reference to the memory map of FIG. 13 (c).

The address Q is an address designated by the current data memory address DMA, and is an address next to the final address E of the completion of the embroidery frame drive data output when the sewing machine spindle is stopped to execute the data insertion processing. In the address area I between the address Q and the final address H of the embroidery pattern, the remaining sewing data for which the embroidery sewing operation has not been executed is stored. The desired new sewing data is inserted in the address area between the address area P and the address area I. First, the number N of stitches of the desired sewing data to be inserted is input and set by operating the ten-key switch TKY, and the address region I is shifted backward by the address region corresponding to the number N of stitches (step
602). The data memory address DMA is set to the insertion data write address (step 604). Then, enter the desired sewing data (X, Y, F) to be inserted with the numeric keypad TKY.
The input is set by the operation of and written in the data RAM 14 (steps 604 to 606). The data memory address DMA is incremented by one stitch (step 607), and the input of sewing data for each stitch is set until the data for the set number of stitches N is written in preparation for writing the next insert data. It repeats. When the input setting and writing of the insertion data are completed, the data memory address DMA is set to the address Q, and the embroidery sewing operation is continuously restarted from the sewing data of the inserted stitch.

Further, by utilizing the stitch back operation, the following embroidery sewing data editing work can be performed. If you want to change, delete, or insert the desired embroidered pattern, check the actual embroidery pattern that has been sewn up to that point, and then press the stitch back switch. When turned on, the embroidery frame 20 is driven in the opposite direction (-X, -Y only) so as to return it to the desired stitch. Then, edit the sewing data related to the stitch to be changed, deleted or inserted by changing the above-mentioned data,
Deletion and insertion are performed according to each subroutine (FIGS. 6 to 8).

In this embodiment, the display means of the display DPY is not limited to the liquid crystal display, but may be a CRT display or an LED.
It may be an electric / electronic device such as a display, a hard copy device such as a print printer, or a sound generating device.

Further, the procedure of the edit processing such as data change / deletion / insertion is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, "data change" means data memory address DM
Although it is performed on the current stitch indicated by A (that is, the stitch on which the next stitching operation is to be performed), this may be performed on the stitch immediately before that stitch.

Further, the data editing means for executing editing processing such as data modification / deletion / insertion is not limited to the software processing as in the above embodiment, but may be a dedicated hardware device.

Further, in the above embodiment, the start and stop of the sewing machine and the stitch back are controlled by operating the common bar switch, but this may use separate switches.

〔The invention's effect〕

As described above, according to the present invention, the sewing operation is temporarily stopped during the execution of the embroidery sewing operation based on the sewing data corresponding to the desired embroidery pattern, and the content of the sewing data of the desired stitch is appropriately edited. Since the embroidery sewing operation can be continuously re-executed, it is possible to easily change / delete the sewing data while checking the actual embroidery pattern in the process of the embroidery sewing operation.
Editing processing such as insertion can be performed. Therefore, there is an excellent effect that the efficiency of the embroidery sewing data editing work can be expected to be improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an outline of an automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is a hardware block diagram schematically showing a control system of an embodiment of an automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of the operation panel in FIG. 2, FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a main routine of a program executed by the microcomputer in FIG. 2, and FIG. 5 is a sewing machine spindle in the main routine of FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a stop routine, FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a data change processing subroutine in the sewing machine spindle stop routine of FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is a data deletion processing subroutine in the sewing machine spindle stop routine of FIG. FIG. 8 shows an example of a data insertion processing subroutine in the sewing machine spindle stop routine of FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a sewing machine spindle operating routine in the main routine of FIG. 4, and FIG. 10 is an example of an encoder clock interrupt subroutine executed in the sewing machine spindle operating routine of FIG. Flow chart, FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of an encoder origin interrupt subroutine executed in the sewing machine spindle operation routine of FIG. 9, and FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a display example of the display in FIG. The figure is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the data RAM 14 at the time of data editing. 1 ... Sewing data storage means, 2 ... embroidery sewing operation execution means, 3 ... data editing means, 4 ... stop means, 5 ... starting means, 14 ... data RAM, 15 ... operation panel, 18 ... …
X-axis drive pulse motor, 19 ... Y-axis drive pulse motor,
20 …… Embroidery frame, 22 …… Spindle motor, 24 …… Rotary encoder, 26 …… Start / stop switch.

Continuation of the front page (56) Reference JP 62-27994 (JP, A) JP 62-82994 (JP, A) JP 61-75866 (JP, A) JP 57-191360 (JP , A) JPB 63-32909 (JP, B2) JPB 60-42739 (JP, B2)

Claims (2)

(57) [Claims] 1. A readable / writable sewing data storage means for storing sewing data for realizing an embroidery sewing operation corresponding to an arbitrary embroidery pattern, and the sewing data is sequentially read from the sewing data storage means for each stitch. Execution means for moving the embroidery frame according to the read sewing data to execute the embroidery sewing operation, and temporarily stopping the sequential reading of the sewing data from the sewing data storage means at the stitch in the middle of the embroidery pattern, and performing the sewing operation. And a stop means for temporarily stopping the sewing operation, and when the sewing operation is stopped, the sewing data in the sewing data storage means is read in the reverse direction in stitch units based on the stitch in which the sewing operation is temporarily stopped, and the read stitch is read. Change, deletion, or insertion of sewing data relating to a desired stitch is performed in the sewing data storage means based on the reference. Over data editing means and an automatic embroidering machine comprising a starting means for resuming the sequential reading and sewing operation of the sewing data that has been paused. 2. The data editing means sets the embroidery frame 1 based on the sewing data output read in the reverse direction for each stitch unit.
The automatic embroidery machine according to claim 1, further comprising stitch back means for returning each stitch to a desired stitch.