Experimental and numerical modeling of the pressure plate in suture robots with buckling deformation

With the transformation and upgrading of intelligent manufacturing in the apparel industry, pressure-plate-based collaborative suture robots have become an inevitable choice for future garment production. During the rotational suturing of fabrics by the pressure-plate-based collaborative suture robot, improper selection of the pressure plate size or the driving force applied to the plate may cause fabric deformation, affecting the suturing quality. Hence, this article focuses on studying the deformation of fabric during the process of rotary sewing when pressed by the presser plate. First, according to the speed synergy relationship between the robotic arm and the sewing machine, we find the law of motion of the pressure plate. Then, using the energy method, a model for the driving force that the robotic arm should apply to the pressure plate and a critical buckling dimension model of the fabric is established. Finally, simulations and experimental validations are conducted on four plain-woven cut pieces to verify the model. The validation results demonstrate the correctness of the model. This article enhances the generality of the pressure plate in suture robots, improves the sewing quality of cut pieces, and boosts production efficiency, providing theoretical support for advancing research on suture robots in the apparel industry.