How does an embroidery machine work? Design, functions and principle of operation of the device
Understanding how an embroidery machine works is not difficult. The more advanced the model, the less operator intervention is required. Modern devices can independently change threads, cut them, and scale the pattern. A description of the operating principle, as well as the main selection criteria, is presented in this material.
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Device and main functions
Unlike a regular sewing machine, an embroidery machine has expanded functionality, since it is capable of performing work of any complexity. So, if you do embroidery in the traditional way (by hand), the work can take weeks or even months. Moreover, its quality directly depends on the skill level of a particular person.
But the embroidery machine can handle it in a few days or even hours, since it works automatically. When considering how to choose an embroidery machine, you should first become familiar with its design.
It holds the fabric using hoops of different shapes and sizes. In this regard, embroidery proceeds exactly the same as when working by hand. The hoop moves automatically, without human intervention. The needles make punctures in the appropriate places, carrying with them a thread of the corresponding color.
The machine is equipped with a programming device and a display, all functions are controlled by a computer:
- hoop movement speed;
- amplitude;
- angle and direction;
- thread color.
When analyzing which embroidery machine to buy to start a business, you should pay attention to more expensive models. The fact is that budget devices can only work with thread of one color. When a certain part of the pattern is finished, the device itself will give a signal on the screen - you will need to insert another reel and continue working.
But if there are several such reels, they change automatically. We can say about the embroidery unit for sewing machines that it is a convenient device that works completely offline. Professional models can even cut the threads themselves. The operator only needs to set the desired program, load the pattern and insert threads of all colors onto the spools.
Main selection criteria
As a rule, such devices are purchased in order to engage in the relevant business. In this case, you should consider professional models with advanced characteristics. If we talk about how to choose an embroidery machine for business, you need to pay attention to several criteria.
Hoop size
The hoop is a very important element of the device, since it is in them that the stretched fabric is located. They can have different parameters:
- from 100*100 mm (for home use);
- up to 400*260 mm and even more (professional models).
Productivity depends on specific dimensions - the larger the dimensions, the larger the area per cycle. To do this, you need to pay attention to the travel area of the carriage, that is, how many centimeters it can move in one direction or another.
It’s clear what the name of the sewing machine that embroiders designs is called.But it is more important to pay attention to its parameters. For example, if the pattern is longer than the carriage travel, then the fabric on the hoop will need to be moved independently, and this requires very great care. Even the slightest inaccuracy will result in the drawing ending up with a noticeable defect (“the rows will move away”).
Although this problem is solved thanks to software. Large images are divided into several parts, and the machine works with each of them separately. Therefore, it should be clarified whether it has such a function.
Fabric fastening method
The quality of the finished embroidery greatly depends on how fast the hoop is. Inexpensive devices provide a small backlash, that is, an error, due to which individual stitches may move during the process.
Moreover, most often this phenomenon is observed in those nodes that are located at the maximum distance from the fastening zone. This is not always noticeable, but when it comes to business, such deviations are unacceptable.
Thus, the rating of sewing and embroidery machines with double mounts (one on each side) should be considered. Although most devices attach the hoop at one point, it is better not to choose such models.
Frame rigidity
The choice of embroidery machine is also related to how stable the structure with the stretched fabric is held. That is, not only the type of fastening is important, but also its intensity. Ideally, the fabric should be stretched as tightly as possible. Even a slight sagging in the center leads to deformation and reduces the quality of the drawing.
On the one hand, round hoops provide the best tension, but on the other hand, they have a small area.Therefore, when researching which embroidery machine to buy, it is better to choose models with elongated frames that also have rounded, oval (but not sharp) corners.
In addition, the frame itself must be sufficiently rigid. It is necessary to inspect it and make sure that there are additional reinforcements in the corners - thanks to this, the fastening will be as reliable as possible.
Methods of transmitting commands
The rating of embroidery machines for the home includes different models, so there is no shortage of choice. But in order to purchase a really good device, you need to pay attention to such a parameter as the method of loading the command. Most often, a digital file with a drawing is transferred to the machine's computer using USB.
But there are other methods of communication:
- Compact Flash;
- via Wi-Fi network;
- via CD loading;
- PCMCIA.
There are other devices into which you can download a file only after connecting to your computer. This is not entirely convenient - it is easier to download via USB.
Additional options
The review of embroidery machines for home use also includes an analysis of additional options, each of which is important. The more advanced the functionality, the more convenient it is to work with the device and the less operator participation is required. Below are several options to help you understand how to choose an embroidery machine:
- automatic thread trimming after the end of the cycle;
- self-installation of threads;
- a sensor that monitors the end of the threads;
- changing the speed of the needle;
- the ability to scale the drawing;
- the amount of the device's own memory.
The best sewing and embroidery machines are equipped with all these functions, so such devices can be used even for the most complex projects.But if the device is required purely for home use, you can purchase a less expensive model with limited functionality, which will be quite enough for simple drawings.