Reading a Machine

1. Reading a Machine Renata Brenner

2. The Design • Machine made - stamped/pressed parts/molded • Metal & Plastic (Bakelite) Sturdy • Interchangeable/universal – fits multiple machines • Gears, ratchet, ball bearings • Interchangeable cams –cast • Adjustable • Interchangeable cams – changed by hand • Bight adjustment – stitch width – depress lever to slide • Cloth clamp – position • Install w/ screwdriver • Lubricate • Cloth clamp – toothed surface

3. The Design • Power input is through fork arm – from needle clamp • Drives ratchet • Advances material through path determined by cam on needle upstroke • Moves material back & forth perpendicular to path of needle on needle upstroke • Stripping arm holds cloth down on needle upstroke • Holds material stationary on needle downstroke • Can be advanced manually with knob • Need to cover/retract feeddogs

4. The Design

5. What were the designers were trying to accomplish?

6. What were the designers were trying to accomplish? • Sewing machine stitches in a straight line • Create a buttonhole – opening with bound edges (retain shape -prevent fraying)

7. What is the object designed to do?

8. Is it part of a system?

9. If so, where and how does it fit in? • Screws onto machine presser bar • Fits onto needle clamp

10. What is the expected input and where will its output go? • Device holds and moves fabric in synchrony with the sewing machine needle in order to create a buttonhole

11. Who would use it?

12. What they were assuming about the people who would use it? • Knew how to sew • Read instructions/diagrams • Use a screwdriver • Reasonably mechanical

13. What is that person expected to know? • Parts and Functions • How to perform basic tasks with the sewing machine

15. What is she or he supposed to be able to learn? • How to install • Position/adjust • Choose thread/size/style based on fabric/button • Adjust width • Maintenance: open & lubricate

16. Phylogeny

17. Sew Long!