JPH01213455A - Automatic embroidering machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To make it possible to discriminate whether an embroidery pattern is kept in a stitch frame before starting embroidering, by displaying an embroidery pattern read out of a memory means and a frame pattern produced in a frame figure pattern producing means in a display device. CONSTITUTION:Memorized sewing data are read out of figure pattern data preparing means 3 to prepare a figure pattern data of an embroidery figure pattern realized therefrom. On the other hand, figure pattern data of an embroidery frame shape are produced by a frame figure pattern data producing means 4. Both data are displayed by the same displaying means 5 to discriminate whether the embroidery figure pattern is kept in the frame.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] [Industrial Application Field] This invention displays the shape of an embroidery frame and the shape of an embroidery pattern,
The present invention relates to an automatic embroidery machine capable of determining whether an embroidery pattern fits within the dimensions of an embroidery frame.

[Conventional technology]

Conventionally, embroidery machines have been equipped with an embroidery frame with a ±

A total of four limit switches are provided in the ±Y force direction, and when these limit switches detect the embroidery frame support, they stop the embroidery machine to prevent damage to the embroidery machine. It has become.

Here, there is no particular problem if the shape of the embroidery frame supported by the embroidery frame support is a square that matches the shape of the support, but there are cases where the shape of the embroidery frame is oval or round. teeth,
Even though the needle is out of the embroidery frame, there is a region where the limit switch does not detect the embroidery frame support. If a portion of the embroidery pattern falls over such an area, the embroidery machine may not be stopped, causing the needle to hit the frame and damage the machine.

In order to solve such problems,
557, before the start of embroidery.

The shape of the embroidery frame is determined using polar coordinate data from an appropriate origin, and during embroidery operation, the absolute position of the needle position of each stitch in the embroidery pattern is determined using polar coordinates based on the embroidery data for each stitch, and the polar coordinate data of this needle position and It is disclosed that, based on comparison with the polar coordinate data of the embroidery frame, the operation of the embroidery machine is stopped if the needle position falls within the embroidery frame or deviates from the frame.

[Problem to be solved by the invention]

In the conventional embroidery machine as described above, the above-mentioned judgment process had to be performed each time the sewing operation was performed for each stitch during the embroidery sewing operation. I couldn't tell if the pattern would stick out from the frame or not.

Therefore, it was extremely inconvenient and troublesome.

This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned points, and the invention is made in view of the above-mentioned points.

An object of the present invention is to provide an automatic embroidery machine capable of determining whether the embroidery pattern fits within an embroidery frame.

[Means to solve the problem]

The embroidery machine according to the present invention reads sewing data stored in a sewing data storage means, and, based on the sewing data, creates graphic pattern data of an embroidery pattern realized by the embroidery data. Frame figure pattern data generating means for generating figure pattern data for illustrating the shape of an embroidery frame, and pattern figure pattern data created by the pattern figure pattern data generating means and generated by the frame figure pattern data generating means. a display means for displaying an embroidery pattern and an embroidery frame shape based on frame figure pattern data; and determining whether the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame by comparing the embroidery pattern displayed by the display means and the embroidery frame shape; It is characterized by the fact that it is possible to do so. This is illustrated in FIG. 1(a). 1 is a sewing data storage means;
2 is a means for executing the embroidery sewing operation, which stores sewing data for realizing an embroidery sewing operation corresponding to an arbitrary embroidery pattern, reads sewing data from the sewing data storage means 1, and stores the read sewing data. This is a device that executes embroidery sewing operations according to the embroidery sewing operation.

Reference numeral 3 denotes the pattern figure pattern data creation means, 4 the frame figure pattern data generation means, and 5 the display means.

The embroidery machine according to the present invention includes, in addition to the pattern figure pattern data creation means and the frame figure pattern data generation means, the design figure pattern data created by the design figure pattern data creation means and the frame figure pattern data generation means. The present invention is characterized by comprising a determining means for comparing the generated frame graphic pattern data and determining whether the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame. This is illustrated in FIG. 1(b), where 6 is the determining means. In this case, the display means 5 may also be provided.

Examples of embodiments of the automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention are as follows.

(2) The frame enclosing pattern data generation means includes a frame shape data storage means for storing frame shape data indicating the shape of the embroidery frame, reads out the frame shape data stored in the frame shape data storage means, and converts the frame shape data into the frame shape data. Embroidery frame pattern data creation means for creating frame surround pattern data illustrating the shape of the embroidery frame based on the embroidery frame.

(2) The frame enclosing pattern data creating means includes a calculating means for performing a calculation to create figure pattern data of an embroidery frame based on the frame shape data read from the frame shape data storage means, and a frame enclosing shape created by this calculating means. and frame-shaped pattern data storage means for storing pattern data.

(2) The frame pattern data creation means includes means for setting the scale of the graphic pattern data to be created, and the graphic pattern data is created and displayed at the set scale.

(2) The pattern figure pattern data and the frame enclosure pattern data are bit pattern data.

■The determining means performs a logical product of the bit pattern data of the pattern figure pattern data and the frame surrounding pattern data for each bit, and if there is even one bit for which the logical product condition is satisfied, the embroidery pattern is in the embroidery frame. Since the embroidery pattern crosses the outline, it is determined that the embroidery pattern does not fit within the embroidery frame.

C operation] The pattern/figure pattern data creating means 3 reads out the sewing data stored in the sewing data storage means 1, and creates, based on the sewing data, the graphic pattern data of the embroidery pattern realized by the wrapping data. Further, the 0 display means 5 generates figure pattern data for illustrating the shape of the embroidery frame by the frame surrounding pattern data generation means 4.
The embroidery pattern and the embroidery frame shape are displayed based on the pattern figure pattern data created by the pattern figure pattern data generating means 3 and the frame surrounding pattern data generated by the frame surrounding pattern data generating means 4. By comparing the embroidery pattern displayed by means 5 with the embroidery frame shape, it can be determined whether the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame.

In this way, it is possible to determine whether the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame by comparing the embroidery pattern displayed on the display means 5 and the embroidery frame shape, so there is no need to actually perform the embroidery operation. Based on the display in advance, it can be determined whether the embroidery pattern protrudes from the embroidery frame.

Furthermore, by providing the determining means 6, it is possible to automatically determine whether the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame. It can be determined whether or not it is visible from the outside.

〔Example〕

Hereinafter, one 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 the automatic embroidery machine control system according to the present invention. CPU11, program ROM12. A microcomputer including a working RAM 13 controls the entire operation of this automatic embroidery machine. The data RAM 14 stores sewing data for realizing a desired embroidery pattern and various other data related to embroidery sewing. A graphic pattern memory GPMI for storing graphic pattern data of an embroidery pattern and a frame surrounding pattern memory GPM2 for storing graphic pattern data of an embroidery frame shape are provided. These graphic pattern memories GPMI and GPM2 are composed of, for example, RAM.

The operation panel 15 includes various setting switches, displays, etc. The paper tape reader 16 displays the sewing data recorded on the paper tape (X, Y data for instructing the position of the embroidery frame for each stitch, color change, sewing machine, etc.). It reads data directly related to embroidery sewing operations, such as function data that instructs each operation of the embroidery sewing machine, such as stopping the main spindle and jumping, and the paper tape 17 that records sewing data to realize an arbitrary embroidery pattern is read out. Set.

Sewing data read from the paper tape 17 via the paper tape reader 16 is transferred and stored in the data RAM 14.

In this embodiment, the design pattern memory G
The graphic pattern data of the embroidery pattern to be stored in the PMI is created based on the sewing data stored in the data RAM 14.

In addition, in this embodiment, the shape of one or more types of embroidery frames is converted into a stitch data format (the shape of the embroidery frame is converted into a sewing pattern with an appropriate sewing width, and the X, Y ``Frame data'' expressed in a data format that expresses the shape of the embroidery frame using directional displacement data is stored in the data RAM l4. This [frame data] is obtained by reading the desired data from the paper tape 17 and storing it in the data RAM 1 in the same way as normal embroidery sewing data.
It is recommended that you store it in 4. In this embodiment, the graphic pattern data of the embroidery frame shape to be stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2 is stored in the data RAM 14.
It is created based on the above r-frame data stored in .

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 given to the pulse motors 18 and 19 via a pulse motor driver 21.

The main shaft motor 22 rotates the sewing machine main shaft 23 of this automatic embroidery machine, and as is well known, the needle bar and hook are driven in accordance with the rotation of the sewing machine main shaft 2-3. The rotary encoder 24 is connected to the main shaft 23 (or the motor 22
) to detect the rotation angle.

Assuming that one sewing head HD is a multi-needle lockstitch head, this head HD has a six-color change motor equipped with multiple needle bars (threads of different colors are respectively attached to each needle bar). 25 selects one of the plurality of needle bars of the head HD by its rotational drive so that it can be driven by the needle bar drive mechanism within the head HD. The needle bar drive mechanism moves the needle bar up and down in response to the rotation of the main shaft 23 of the sewing machine, and is well known, so it is not particularly illustrated. The number of sewing heads HD is not limited to one, and a plurality of sewing heads may be installed together.

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

The communication interface 27 is an external output interface for inputting/outputting sewing data and control data to/from the external device 28, and for example, the electrical standard is R8-232.
G serial interface, etc.

The external device 28 is, for example, a personal computer with a communication function or an appropriate intelligent terminal device, etc., and can appropriately set, edit, and store sewing data and control data corresponding to the embroidery pattern. It is possible to input and output sewing data and control data to and from the embroidery machine via a communication line.

The automatic embroidery machine is further provided with other devices and equipment, but illustrations of these are omitted. Each device that makes up the control system of the automatic embroidery machine has an interface I.
It sends and receives signals to and from the microcomputer via /F.

An example of the switches and indicators provided on the operation panel 15 is shown in FIG. 3.

The display device DPY is used to display the data being set when setting various data, to display it to confirm the contents of the various data that have been set, or to display other necessary information. It is capable of displaying text and, if necessary, graphical display. Display D
PY can be used in several display modes,
One of the display modes is a display mode for setting various data or confirming and displaying the setting contents.

In that case, as illustrated in FIG. 3, one display DPY is
It is divided into a setting content display section DPY1 which occupies a relatively large area at the upper stage, and a function switch explanation display section DPY2 at the lower stage. Also, in another display mode.

For example, a liquid crystal display can be used as the display DPY, which functions as a display means for displaying the graphic pattern of the embroidery pattern.

Six function switches F1 to F6 are provided below the display DPY. The above-mentioned function switch explanation display section DPY2 displays a display explaining the functions currently assigned to each of these function switches F1 to F6. Depending on the state of function assignment to each function switch F1 to F6, the five function switches F1 to F5 on the left side become function switches corresponding to various data setting functions, etc., and the remaining switch F6 is the next candidate (NEXT) selection key. It may function as

The function switch explanation display section DPY2 consists of six display frames corresponding to each function switch F1 to F6, and each display frame corresponding to F1 to F6 shows the function currently assigned to each function switch F1 to F6. Displays to explain (for example, this display is "Data Entry")
Alternatively, characters such as ``Procon'' (consisting of characters such as ``Procon'') appear. In that case, if the function switch F6 is functioning as the next candidate selection key, the display frame corresponding to F6 will have a display rNEXTJ explaining the function of the next candidate selection key.
appears.

The function menu part MENU arranged to the right of the display DPY is a list that visually and fixedly displays all data setting functions that can be assigned to the function switches F1 to F6. Part of this function menu ME NU is the program mode menu P.
RO, MENU and operation mode menu RUN, MENU
It consists of. Program mode menu PRO, MEN
U displays all functions that can be assigned to each of the function switches F1 to F6 in the program mode. ! 1st turn mode menu RUN, MENU is each function 3 switch F1 in operation mode.
- All functions that can be assigned to F6 are displayed.

Program mode is the setting of various data related to the embroidery sewing program to realize the desired embroidery pattern (for example, the input of sewing data corresponding to the desired embroidery pattern, ie "data input", and the setting of thread color changing procedure). This is the mode for making settings (such as "Pro-Con"). 'What is driving mode?
This is a mode in which various operating conditions (for example, sewing machine main shaft rotation speed, etc.) are set before the embroidery machine starts operating.

The display changeover switch SWl is used to change the display mode of the display DPY. This display changeover switch SWI is operated when switching to another display mode.

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

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

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

Next, a specific example of displaying a graphic pattern in the form of an embroidery pattern or an embroidery frame will be described.

In the graphic display mode, the display DPY displays an embroidery pattern or an embroidery frame-shaped graphic pattern in a dot pattern. Specifically, in the graphic pattern data stored in the design/figure pattern memory GPM1 and the frame pattern memory GPM2, 1 bit corresponds to 1 dot.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4(a), the display device DPY consists of 128×128 dots, and is constituted by 2048 bytes of dot data.

Each figure pattern memory GPMI, GPM2 is shown in FIG.
As shown in b), each has a storage capacity of 2048 bytes corresponding to the number of dots on the display DPY. For example, 00(
The 16 addresses (16X8=128 bits) from H) to 0F(H) correspond to the 128 dots at the top of the display DPY, and the 192 addresses from 10(14) to 7FF()l)
The 0 address corresponds to the remaining dots on the display DPY. Note that (11) indicates hexadecimal expression.

In order to create graphic pattern data of an embroidery pattern to be realized by the sewing data based on the sewing data to realize the desired embroidery pattern, for example, the following steps are performed. The sewing data consists of X, Y data and function data for each stitch. X.

The Y data indicates the relative movement of the embroidery frame 20 with respect to the previous stitch, and does not indicate the absolute coordinates of each stitch. To graphically display an embroidery pattern, it is necessary to determine the absolute coordinates of each stitch.

Therefore, by accumulating the X data and Y data from the embroidery start point to any i-th stitch as shown below, the absolute coordinates
Find i and YAi (see Figure 5). In this case,
The coordinate origin is the embroidery start point.

XAi=X□+X z + X 3+...+X1YA
i=Y, 10Y2+Y, 10...+Yi...(1
) Next, the absolute coordinates on the embroidery frame as described above
.

Convert YAi to absolute coordinates Xai, Yai on the display. Here, the size of the display device DPY is sufficiently smaller than the size of the embroidery frame 20. Therefore, the display DPY displays figures scaled at an appropriate ratio to the actual size of the embroidery pattern.
shall be displayed.

In this case, it is preferable that the scale factor, that is, the conversion magnification, can be selected as appropriate. An example of the conversion magnification is 1/
2.1/3.115.1/10, etc.

For example, the conversion formula is as follows.

Xai=INT(KXXAi+0.5)+X5Yai=
I NT (KXYAi + 0.5) + Ys - (2) Here, INT () indicates that the numerical value in () is converted into an integer. The reason for adding 0.5 is that the products KXXAi and KX
This is to round off each YAi. Xs and Ys indicate the X and Y coordinates of the starting point of the graphic display on the display. The start point coordinates Xs, Ys can be arbitrarily selected. For example, the dot coordinates at the center of one display DPY are 63.63, and if the starting point of graphic display is selected at the center of the display DPY, then X5=63. Ys=63.

The above coordinates Xai and Yai are the needle positions, and the previous needle positions X a i-1, Y a i-1 and the current needle position Xai
.

It is necessary to further find the graphic coordinates of the seam line connecting Yai. Therefore, the previous needle position Xai - 1°Yai
-1 and the current needle position Xai, Yai difference ΔX = Xai
-Xai-1, Δy=YBi-Yai-1 are respectively determined,
The magnitude of the absolute values of ΔX and Δy is compared, and the following process (2) or (2) is executed depending on the comparison result.

Process ■: When 1Δx1>1Δy1, the X coordinate position Xk (k=1.2.3...
m, where m is the number of dots corresponding to the width of ΔX) is the xIMm position of the seam line. to ~1, that is, X of Xk = X1
The coordinate position is Xai-1. k = m or Xk
The X coordinate position of =Xm is Xai.

The Y coordinate position Yk of the seam line is Yk=INT[(Δy/Δx)(X k −X a
1-1)+Yai-1+0.53...1
3). As before, INT() is []
The reason for adding 0.5, which indicates that the numbers in brackets are to be converted into integers, is to round off the numbers in parentheses.

Processing ■: When 1Δx1 x 1Δy1, the Y coordinate position Yk (k=1.2.3...m,
However, m is the number of dots corresponding to the width of Δy)
Let it be the coordinate position. =1, that is, the Y coordinate position of Yk=Y is Yai-1. to=m, that is, Yk=Ym of Y
The coordinate position is Yai.

The X coordinate position of the seam line [Xk is.

xk=xNT((Δx/Δy)(Y k−Y ai−1
)+Xai-1+0.5)-(4).

FIG. 6(a) shows an example of coordinates of stitches on the embroidery frame. Absolute coordinates of needle position C (Xai-1°Yai-1
) is (500, 300), and the absolute coordinates (X ai, Y at) of the zero-order needle position are, for example,
Suppose that it is (550, 260). Respective needle positions C and D
When the absolute coordinates of are converted to display coordinates according to equation (2) above, (113, 93) and (1
18,89).

In addition, the conversion magnification K is 1710, and the stunite point coordinates Xs
, Ys was set to (63, 63). In this case, Δx=5.
Since Δy=-4 and 1Δx1>1Δy1, the X coordinate position Xk of the seam line on the display is 113.114,1
15, 116, 117, 118, and the Y coordinate position Yk of the seam line is 93.92, 91, 91, 9 from equation (3).
It becomes 0.89. Therefore, the X and Y coordinates of the seam line from C' to D' are (113, 93
), (114,92), (115,91), (116,
91), (117, 90), and (118, 89).

The graphic coordinate data of the embroidery pattern obtained as described above is stored in the pattern graphic pattern memory GPMI in the form of a dot pattern. In general, a pattern figure pattern memory GP corresponding to a dot position on the display indicated by figure coordinates (x ey)
The storage position of MI is the D-th bit of the address of the design pattern memory GPMI indicated by A (H) B (H) C (H) according to the following formula %. For example, if the graphic coordinates are (113,93).

(128-93) ÷ 16 = 2 remainder 3 113 ÷ 8 = 14 remainder 1 From this, the storage position of the 1st bit among bits 0 to 7 of address 23E (H) in the pattern figure pattern memory GPMI is set to the figure coordinates. Corresponding 0 figure pattern memory G
In PM, 1'' is thus stored in the storage position corresponding to the figure coordinate position, and 'O'' is stored in the other storage positions.

When creating graphic pattern data in the shape of an embroidery frame based on "r-frame data in which the shape of the embroidery frame is expressed in a stitch data format", the same method as described above can be used.

As mentioned above, the ``r frame data'' consists of X and Y data for each stitch obtained by converting the embroidery frame shape into a sewing pattern, and function data as required.

An example of the shape of an embroidery frame in the stitch data format expressed by "frame data" is shown in FIG. FIG. 7(a) shows an example of an actual embroidery frame, and FIG. 7(b) shows an example of a state in which this embroidery frame is converted into a sewing pattern.
), the X mark corresponds to the needle position, and the straight line connecting them corresponds to the sewing width. An arbitrary needle position is set as a reference point, and stitch data (X, Y data for each stitch) for multiple stitches starting from this reference point, going around the outline of the embroidery frame, and ending at the reference point is prepared in advance as "r frame data". Prepare and store this on a paper tape 17 or the like.For one or more types of embroidery frames, prepare a paper tape 17 storing "frame data" in such a stitch data format, respectively.
The r-frame data of one or more desired embroidery frames are read out from the corresponding paper tapes 17 and stored in the data RAM 14, respectively. At this time, in order to distinguish between each embroidery frame, a frame number is assigned to the "frame data" corresponding to each embroidery frame, and when this frame number is specified, the "frame data" of the desired embroidery frame is read out from the data RAM 14. be able to do so. Frame pattern data is created based on the read r-frame data and stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2.

The creation (conversion) of the frame pattern data based on such r-frame data and the storage in the frame pattern memory GPM2 are the same as the creation (conversion) of the pattern figure pattern data of the embroidery pattern described above.
(conversion) and storage in the pattern memory GPMI. That is, the frame pattern data based on the "frame data" is converted into the format of bit pattern data (dot pattern data) corresponding to the dot position on the display 1DPY, and is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM.
It is stored in 2. Note that simply converting "r-frame data" to bit pattern data as described above will result in
The start position of the frame pattern data consisting of bit pattern data on the display DPYS (the position corresponding to the above-mentioned Xs and Ys) is the reference point (see Fig. 7(b)).
This corresponds to the start position of the design/figure pattern data on the display DPY, that is, the embroidery start position. In this case, it is troublesome to compare the pattern shape and the frame shape, and furthermore, the frame shape display may extend beyond the limited display frame of the display device DPY.
An offset value corresponding to the deviation between the reference point position and the embroidery start position in the actual embroidery frame 20 is added to or subtracted from the frame surrounding pattern data, and the relative positional relationship between the design figure pattern data and the frame surrounding pattern data is calculated. Make sure to match the actual positional relationship. The frame pattern data thus offset-corrected is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2.

In this way, the created pattern figure pattern data and frame surrounding pattern data are stored in each figure pattern memory GPMI, GPM.
By reading out each from 2 and displaying them together on 1 display DPY, the figures of the two can be compared.

It can be determined whether the selected embroidery pattern fits in the embroidery frame to be used. Figure 8(a).

(b) shows an example of the display on the display DPY. (a) shows a state in which the embroidery pattern figure P is contained within the figure F of the embroidery frame, and (b) shows a state in which it does not fit. shows.

Of course, the frame pattern data without offset correction may be stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2, and the offset may be corrected when reading and displaying the frame pattern data.

In addition, without actually displaying the embroidery pattern figure and the embroidery frame figure on the display DPY, it is possible to compare the pattern figure pattern data and the frame surrounding pattern data created for one display at the data level. Motoduki.

It is possible to determine whether the two figures intersect, and thereby it is possible to automatically determine whether the selected embroidery pattern fits in the embroidery frame to be used.

To explain this automatic determination, pattern figure pattern data consisting of bit pattern data and offset-corrected frame pattern data are compared for each identical bit, and a logical product is calculated for each bit. If there is even one bit for which the AND is true, the embroidery pattern intersects the embroidery frame at the position corresponding to that bit, and therefore it is determined that the embroidery pattern does not fit within the embroidery frame. If there is no bit for which the AND is established, it is determined that the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame. This determination result is displayed on the display DPY or other appropriate display means. Of course, the determination of whether or not the embroidery pattern fits in the embroidery frame is not limited to the above-described comparison using logical product, but may also be performed using other comparative determination methods.

In addition, even in the case of automatic determination, if the frame pattern data without offset correction is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2, the read address of the frame pattern memory GPM2 is offset corrected and the frame pattern data is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2. By reading out, it is possible to match the relative positional relationship between the pattern figure pattern and the frame pattern when logically comparing them.

As described above, it is known in advance whether the embroidery pattern will fit in the embroidery frame without actually performing the embroidery sewing operation.

When starting the embroidery sewing operation, the embroidery frame 20 is positioned so that the relative position of the embroidery frame 20 with respect to the needle position of the sewing machine head is a predetermined embroidery pattern starting position. This may be done manually as in the past, but it may also be done automatically according to the offset value between the embroidery pattern start point in the graphic display and the reference point of the embroidery frame 20.
That is, since this offset value is a coordinate scale on the display 11DPY, it is sufficient to convert this into an actual coordinate scale and drive the embroidery frame 20 by that amount. The coordinate amount of the offset value on the display DPY is (Xo,
Yo) and the above-mentioned conversion magnification is K, the actual coordinate amount (OX e Oy ) of the offset value is.

It is given by 0x=Xo/ and 0y=Yo/K − (6). Therefore, first, the embroidery frame 20 is manually moved so that its reference point corresponds to the needle position of the sewing machine head. Then, the offset coordinate amount (Ox
By automatically driving the embroidery frame 20 by e Oy ), the embroidery frame 20 can be positioned so that the relative position of the embroidery frame 20 with respect to the needle position of the sewing machine head becomes a predetermined embroidery pattern starting position. In order to indicate the position of the reference point in the embroidery frame 20, as shown in FIG. 7(a).

It is preferable to place a predetermined mark at the position of the reference point in the actual embroidery frame 20.

Next, of the operations executed by the automatic embroidery machine shown in FIG. 2 under the control of the microcomputer, the operations particularly related to the present invention will be explained with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

When the automatic embroidery machine is turned on, it first goes through a predetermined initial routine and then proceeds to a sewing machine main shaft stop routine, as shown in FIG. Processing operations related to the present invention and various other data setting processing operations are executed in this sewing machine spindle stop routine. When the sewing machine is not in operation, this routine for stopping the main shaft of the sewing machine is always executed, and when the start switch is turned on by the start/stop switch 26, the sewing machine moves to the operation routine. In the operation routine, the sewing machine main shaft 23 is driven, and sewing data for each stitch is sequentially read out from the sewing data memory area of the data RAM 14 in synchronization with one revolution of the main shaft, and embroidery sewing operation is performed based on this data.

An example of the sewing machine spindle stop routine will be explained with reference to FIG. 10. First, in the stop initial routine,
In the zeroth step 30, which performs a predetermined initial process when the sewing machine is stopped, it is determined whether the operation mode is the operation mode or the program mode based on the contents of the operation mode flag. The operation mode is as described below.
When the program mode switch SW2 is turned on, the program mode is set, and when the operation mode switch SW3 is turned on, the operation mode is set.

If it is the program mode, go to step 31 and set various data in the program mode.In order to check whether the embroidery pattern you are about to embroidery will fit within the embroidery frame, this program Select "Soft frame limit mode" in the mode. The selection for this is as follows: function switch F
Perform steps 1 to F6.

In the program mode, the screen of the display DPY first becomes as shown in FIG. 3, and the function switch explanation display section DPY2 displays explanations of 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 section DPY2 displays explanations of 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 section DPY2 will display the screen shown in FIG. 12(a).
As shown in , the explanation of the -N mode in the program mode is displayed. When the function switch F4 is pressed in this state, the "soft frame limit mode" is selected. As a result, the determination at step 32 in FIG.

An example of the soft frame limit processing routine 33 is shown in FIG. First, in step 34, enter the pattern number of the embroidery pattern you want to embroidery from now on (in other words, the embroidery pattern you want to check to see if it will fit in the embroidery frame) using the numeric keypad switch T.
Select and input using KY. The data RAM 14 stores sewing data for a plurality of types of embroidery patterns, and a pattern number is assigned to each stored embroidery pattern. Step 3
In step 4, select this pattern number. In this step 34, the display on the 1-display unit DPY is switched as shown in FIG. 12(b). The displayed numeric value flashes at the location where the desired pattern number should be entered. For example, if a pattern number has not been input yet, "00" will blink. When a desired pattern number is input using the numeric keypad switch TKY, the input numerical value blinks. For example, when "2" is input, I'02J blinks, indicating that [2] has been input as the pattern number. If the currently flashing pattern number is acceptable, operate the setting confirmation switch SW4 and proceed to the next step. At this time, the set pattern number data is registered in the register in the data RAM 14.

In the next step 35, the coordinates Xs, Y of the 1 display start point are
Set and input s using the numeric keypad switch TKY. In this step 35, the display on the 1-display unit DPY is first switched as shown in FIG. 12(c).

At the location where the X@ coordinate data of the desired display start point should be entered, the displayed value blinks at 0. For example, if the X axis coordinate data has not been input yet.

"63" indicating the center flashes. Numeric keypad switch TK
When desired X-axis coordinate data is input using Y, the input value blinks. If the currently blinking X-axis coordinate data is sufficient, operate the setting confirmation switch Sw4, and then set the Y-axis coordinate data.

In that case, the display on the display DPY changes as shown in FIG. 12(d). Similarly to the above, for example, if Y-axis coordinate data has not been input yet, "63" indicating the center blinks. When desired Y-axis coordinate data is input using the numeric keypad switch TKY, the input numerical value blinks. If the currently flashing Y-axis coordinate data is acceptable, operate the setting confirmation switch SW4 and proceed to the next step. Further, the X and Y coordinate data Xs and Ys of the set display start point are registered in the register in the data RAM 14.

In the next step 36, the conversion magnification K is set and input using the numeric keypad switch TKY. In this step 36, the display on the display DPY changes as shown in FIG. 12(e). The displayed numeric value blinks at the location where the desired conversion magnification is to be entered. If the conversion magnification has not yet been input, a predetermined reference magnification (for example, "1/1O") blinks. When a desired conversion magnification is input using the numeric keypad switch TKY, the input value blinks. If the currently flashing conversion magnification is acceptable, operate the setting confirmation switch SW4 and proceed to the next step. Data RAM is used for the set conversion ratio data.
It is registered in the register in 14.

In the next step 37, the embroidery frame 20 set on the embroidery machine
(In other words, the embroidery frame for which you want to check whether the embroidery pattern will fit in this embroidery frame)
Select and input. The data RAML4 stores "r frame data" of a plurality of types of embroidery frames, and a frame number is assigned to the "frame data" of each stored embroidery frame. In step 37, this frame number amount is selected. In step 37, the frame number amount can be selected by the same operation as the pattern number selection operation in step 34. The frame number amount data selected as 0 is registered in the register in the data RAM 14.

In the next step 38, the offset coordinate values Xo, Yo of the reference point (see FIG. 7(b)) in the graphic display of the embroidery frame are
Enter the settings. These offset coordinate values Xo, Yo are:
As mentioned above, the coordinates Xs, Y of the display start point of the embroidery pattern
This is the offset coordinate value of the reference point of the graphic display of the embroidery frame with respect to s. The operation of setting and inputting the offset coordinate values Xo and YO in step 38 can be performed by the same operation as the operation of setting and inputting the coordinate data Xs and Ys of the start point in step 35. The set and input offset coordinate value data Xo, Yo are registered in the register in the data RAM 14.

In the next step 39, the pattern figure pattern memory GPMI
Clears the frame pattern memory GPM2 and also clears the display on the 1-display unit DPY.

The display device DPY is set to graphic display mode.

In the next step 40, the stitch counter is set to an initial value of "1".
”, and the sewing data of the embroidery pattern corresponding to the pattern number input in step 34 is stored in the data RAM 14.
State i to start reading from the sewing data storage area in
do.

In the next step 41, among the sewing data of the specific embroidery pattern that has been set to the reading start state as described above, sewing data for one stitch (x
, y data and function data) in the data RAM
Read from 14.

In the next step 42, the absolute coordinates (XAi, YAi) of the current stitch are determined by calculating the equation (1).

That is, the X data of the current stitch read in step 41 is added to the X coordinate value of the absolute coordinates of the previous stitch, and the X coordinate value XA of the absolute coordinates of the current stitch is obtained.
Find i. Further, the Y data of the current stitch read out in step 41 is added to the Y coordinate value of the absolute coordinate of the previous stitch to obtain the Y coordinate value YAi of the absolute coordinate of the current stitch.

In the next step 43, the absolute coordinate (Xai) of the current stitch on the display is determined by calculating the equation (2).

Yai). That is, the absolute position $31 (X A i , Y A
i), the coordinate data Xs, Ys of the display start point set in step 35.
i, Yai) are used in the primary step 44, and
It is stored in a register for use in the process of step 44 regarding the next stitch.

In step 44, figure coordinate (dot coordinate) data Xk, Yk of a stitch line connecting adjacent needle positions is obtained according to the process (1) or (2) described above. That is, the display coordinate data (X a
l-1# Y a 1-1) and the display coordinate data (Xai, Yai) regarding the current stitch, the difference ΔX
, Δy, and perform the above processing (■) or (■) depending on the size.
Execute either of the above to obtain graphic coordinate data Xk, Yk corresponding to one stitch line (where k=1.2, 3.-m, and m is ΔX.

The number of dots corresponding to the width of the larger absolute value of Δy)
seek. Then, the obtained graphic coordinate data Xk, Yk is stored in the pattern graphic pattern memory GPMI in the form of a dot pattern.

In the next step 45, the pattern figure pattern memory GPMI
The dot pattern format figure coordinate data stored in the dot pattern format is read out, and the corresponding dot pattern format figure, that is, the embroidery pattern figure is displayed on the display device DPY.

In the next step 46, it is checked whether the content of the function data in the sewing data for one stitch read out in step 41 is an end code indicating the end of the embroidery pattern. If it is not finished yet, the process returns to step 41 via step 47 and the same step 41 as described above is performed regarding the next stitch indicated by the stitch counter.
In step 47, the processes from 46 to 46 are repeated, and the contents of the stitch counter are incremented to instruct the next stitch. When the processing of steps 41 to 46 is completed for the sewing data of all stitches, the function data becomes an end code and the process goes to the first step 48. At this time, the figure pattern data of the entire embroidery pattern is stored in the figure pattern memory GPMI.
The figure of the entire embroidery pattern is displayed on the display DPY.

The processing in steps 48 to 55 involves displaying the embroidery frame shape on the display D.
The step 40 is a process for displaying the embroidery pattern on the display device DPY.
It consists of the same processing contents as those in 47 to 47.

That is, in step 48, the stitch counter is reset to the initial value "1", and the r frame data of the embroidery frame corresponding to the frame number set and inputted in step 37 is set to data R.
A state is set in which reading starts from the frame data storage area in AM14.

In the next step 49, the frame data (X
, Y data and funximin data), data RAM
Read out from 14.

In the next step 50, the absolute coordinates (XAi', YAi'') of the current stitch are determined by the same calculation as in equation (1), as in step 42.

In the next step 51, the absolute coordinates (Xai', Yai') of the current stitch on the display are calculated in the same manner as in step 43 by using the same calculation as in equation (2). Offset correction calculations may also be performed according to the offset coordinate values Xo and Yo. That is, the absolute coordinates (XAi') on the embroidery frame obtained in the previous step 50.

YA i'), the coordinate data Xs, Ys of the display start point set in step 35. The offset coordinate values Xo and Yo set in step 38 are further added or subtracted, and the offset-corrected absolute coordinates (X
ai', Yai'). The coordinate data (Xai', Yai') obtained here is used in the next step 52 and is stored in a register for use in the process of step 52 regarding the primary stitch.

In step 52, figure coordinate (dot coordinate) data Xk'', Yk'' of stitch lines connecting adjacent needle positions is obtained.

It is determined according to the process (1) or the same process as (2) above.

Then, the obtained graphical coordinate data Xk'', Yk' is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2 in the form of a dot pattern.

In the next step 53, the frame pattern memory GPM2
The dot pattern format figure coordinate data stored in the dot pattern format is read out, and the corresponding dot pattern format figure, that is, the figure of the embroidery frame is displayed on the display device DPY. At this time, the pattern figure pattern data already read from the pattern figure pattern memory GPMI and the frame pattern data read from the frame pattern memory GPM2 are OR-combined for each same bit (dot), and each of them is The OR synthesis output for each bit (dot) is manually input to the display DPY so that the pattern figure and the frame surrounding shape are displayed together on the display DPY.

In the next step 54, it is checked whether the content of the function data among the "frame data" for one stitch read out in the step 49 is an end code indicating the end. If it is not finished yet, return to step 49 via step 55 and perform steps 49 to 54 similar to those described above regarding the next stitch indicated by the stitch counter.
Repeat the process. In step 55, the contents of the stitch counter are incremented to instruct the first stitch. When the processing of steps 49 to 54 is completed regarding the "r frame data of all stitches", the function data becomes an end code, and the process proceeds to the next step 56.

At this time, the graphic pattern data of the entire embroidery frame is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM2, and the display DPY
displays the entire embroidery frame as well as the entire embroidery pattern. In this way, by visually checking the embroidery pattern graphic displayed on the display DPY and the embroidery frame graphic, it is possible to confirm whether the embroidery pattern will fit in the embroidery frame.

The next steps 56 to 59 are for automatically determining whether the embroidery pattern fits in the embroidery frame.

In step 56, the pattern figure pattern data and the frame enclosure pattern data are read from the pattern figure pattern memory GPM1 and the frame enclosure pattern memory GPM2, respectively, and the AND operation of the read pattern figure pattern data and the frame enclosure pattern data is performed. Perform for each same bit (dot).

In step 57, it is checked whether there is even 1 bit (dot) of the output ``1'' in the logical product operation result in the previous step 56, that is, a bit (dot) for which the logical product was established.

As mentioned above, if the AND condition is satisfied even for one bit (dot), it means that the embroidery pattern intersects the embroidery frame.
This means that the embroidery pattern does not fit into the embroidery frame. Therefore, in that case, the process goes to step 58 and the predetermined soft frame '°
Error” is displayed.

On the other hand, if there are no bits (dots) that satisfy the AND condition, it means that the embroidery pattern does not intersect with the embroidery frame and the embroidery pattern falls within the embroidery frame. Therefore, in that case, the process goes to step 59, and a predetermined soft frame ``'OK'''' is displayed.

After step 58 or 59, the process returns to the main routine.

Of course, if the above automatic determination is not performed, steps 56 to
59 may be omitted, and after YES in step 54, the process returns to the main routine. Furthermore, if visual confirmation of the pattern and frame shape is omitted instead of performing the above-mentioned automatic determination, the processes of steps 45 and 53 may be omitted.

Returning to FIG. 10, in step 60 it is checked whether the operation mode switch SW3 has been turned on. If NO, the process returns to step 31 and repeats the program mode processing.

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, initialization processing of various data for starting the embroidery sewing operation is performed (step 61).

In step 62, setting processing for various data in the driving mode is performed.In the i-turn mode, the function switch explanation display section DPY2 of the display DPY first displays an explanation of modes A to H in the driving mode (see Fig. 3). (Refer to the operation mode menu RUN, MENU), when the function switch F6 is pressed to select the next candidate, the function switch explanation display section DPY2 displays an explanation of the F and G modes in the operation mode. The desired mode is displayed on the function switch explanation display section DPY2, and the desired mode is selected by operating the function switches F1 to F5. Then, set the desired data by operating the numeric keypad switch TKY.0For example, if you want to set the number of rotations of the sewing machine, select B's "rotation speed mode j" and input the desired number of rotations using the numeric keypad switch TKY. Thus, in step 62, necessary sewing machine operating conditions are set.

In step 63, it is checked whether the start/stop switch 26 has been turned on. If the starting switch is on, the process returns to the main routine and enters the operation routine (FIG. 9). If the startup switch is not on, the process goes to step 64 to check whether the program mode switch SW2 has been turned on. If NO, the process returns to step 62 and repeats the routine for setting various data in the driving mode. When the program mode switch SW2 is turned on, the operation mode is switched from the operation mode to the program mode, and the process goes to step 31, where the routine for setting various data in the program mode described above is repeated.

In the above embodiment, in the soft frame limit processing routine shown in FIG. 11, the pattern figure pattern data for each stitch is created and, at the same time, the figure corresponding to the created pattern figure pattern data is displayed. There is. However, it is not limited to this.

The created (already stored) design/figure pattern data may be read out from the design/figure pattern memory GPMI and displayed. In that case, the pattern/figure pattern memory GPMI may store figure pattern data of multiple types of embroidery patterns, and one of them may be selected and read out and displayed.In the case of frame pattern data Similarly, the created (already stored) frame pattern data is stored in the frame pattern memory GPM.
In this case, the frame pattern memory GPM2 stores graphic pattern data of a plurality of types of embroidery frames, and one of them is selected. It may also be read out and displayed.

In addition, the processing program for creating frame pattern data consisting of bit patterns based on the "frame data" is omitted, a storage means is prepared in which figure pattern data corresponding to the embroidery frame is stored in advance, and the desired data is extracted from this storage means. The graphic pattern data of the embroidery frame may be read out and displayed. In this case, the storage means is not limited to RAM but may also be
M, or may be a paper tape, a magnetic disk, or other external memory. The same applies to embroidery patterns.

Display means for displaying graphic patterns are not limited to liquid crystal displays, but also include electrical and electronic devices such as CRT displays and LED displays.

It may also be a hard copy device such as a printing printer.

Further, in the above embodiment, the device for displaying or determining the embroidery pattern and frame shape according to the present invention is integrated into the automatic embroidery machine, but it can be attached to an existing automatic embroidery machine as a separate unit. Good too.

Further, the control system of the automatic embroidery machine may be connected to a general-purpose communication network, and graphic pattern information of the embroidery pattern and the embroidery frame may be supplied from a remote computer system or the like.

〔Effect of the invention〕

As described above, according to the present invention, the embroidery pattern to be sewn is displayed and the shape of the embroidery frame used for the embroidery work is also displayed. It is possible to instantly determine whether the embroidery pattern will fit within the embroidery frame by comparing with can do. 9 Also, it is possible to automatically determine whether the embroidery pattern will fit within the embroidery frame, so in this case as well, the embroidery pattern will not protrude from the embroidery frame without actually performing the embroidery operation. This has the excellent effect of being able to determine whether or not.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

1(a) and 1(b) are functional block diagrams showing the outline of an automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a hardware diagram schematically showing a control system of an embodiment of the automatic embroidery machine according to the present invention. Configuration block diagram. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an example of the operation panel in FIG. 2, and FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b) are examples of the display dot configuration of the display and the storage position configuration of the graphic pattern memory corresponding to each dot position. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the absolute coordinates of an embroidery pattern, Figure 6 (a
) indicates an example of one stitch line between adjacent needle positions, and (
FIG. 7B shows dot coordinate positions on the display corresponding to the two needle positions in FIG. FIG. 7(a) is a plan view showing an example of the actual shape of the embroidery frame, FIG. 7(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the external shape of the embroidery frame converted into a sewing pattern, FIG. b) is a diagram showing an example of the embroidery frame shape and embroidery pattern pattern displayed on the display; FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main routine of the program executed by the microcomputer in FIG. 2; FIG. A flowchart showing an example of the sewing machine spindle stop routine in the main routine, FIG.
12 (a) to (e) are flowcharts showing an example of the rough 1-frame limit processing routine in Figure 1.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on a display when the process shown in the figure is being performed. DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Sewing data storage means, 2... Means for executing embroidery sewing operation, 3... Design figure pattern data creation means, 4... Frame pattern data generation means, 5... Display means , 6... Judgment means, 14... Data RAM,
GPMI...Pattern figure pattern memory, GPM2...
Frame pattern memory, 15...operation panel, DPY
...Display unit, 16...Paper tape reader, 17...Paper tape, 20...Embroidery frame, 23...Sewing machine main shaft. Applicant Tokai Kogyo Sewing Machine Co., Ltd.

Claims (2)

[Claims] (1) A sewing data storage means for storing sewing data for realizing an embroidery sewing operation corresponding to an arbitrary embroidery pattern, reading sewing data from this sewing data storage means, and performing an embroidery sewing operation according to the read sewing data. In an automatic embroidery machine, the sewing data stored in the sewing data storage means is read out, and based on the sewing data, graphic pattern data of an embroidery pattern realized by the sewing data is created. a pattern data creation means; a frame figure pattern data generation means for generating figure pattern data for illustrating the shape of an embroidery frame; and pattern figure pattern data and the frame figure pattern data created by the pattern figure pattern data generation means. and display means for displaying the embroidery pattern and the embroidery frame shape based on the frame figure pattern data generated by the generation means, and the embroidery pattern is displayed in the embroidery frame by comparing the embroidery pattern displayed by the display means with the embroidery frame shape. An automatic embroidery machine characterized by being able to determine whether the embroidery fits within the specified range. (2) A sewing data storage means for storing sewing data for realizing an embroidery sewing operation corresponding to an arbitrary embroidery pattern, and reading the sewing data from the sewing data storage means, and performing an embroidery sewing operation according to the read sewing data. In an automatic embroidery machine, the sewing data stored in the sewing data storage means is read out, and based on the sewing data, graphic pattern data of an embroidery pattern realized by the sewing data is created. a pattern data creation means; a frame figure pattern data generation means for generating figure pattern data for illustrating the shape of an embroidery frame; and pattern figure pattern data and the frame figure pattern data created by the pattern figure pattern data generation means. An automatic embroidery machine comprising a determining means for comparing the frame figure pattern data generated by the generating means and determining whether the embroidery pattern fits within the embroidery frame.