Precision Laser Finishing for Sustainable Denim Manufacturing
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed methods for laser finishing of apparel products, but had limitations in terms of efficiency, quality, and environmental impact. This invention addresses these limitations by introducing optimized laser finishing processes, precision-controlled laser heads, and integrated systems for seamless communication between laser finishing and traditional manufacturing systems.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel elements such as optimized laser finishing processes, precision-controlled laser heads, and integrated systems, which are not present in the original patent. These elements provide a significant improvement over the existing invention, enabling faster, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly production of apparel products with a faded, distressed, washed, or worn finish or appearance.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include the use of different types of lasers, fabric handling systems, or sensors for detecting fabric type. Variations of the computer program could include different algorithms for predicting fabric response or generating optimized laser finishing patterns.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in the apparel industry, particularly in the production of denim apparel such as jeans, shirts, shorts, jackets, vests, and skirts. The improved efficiency, quality, and environmental sustainability of the laser finishing process make it an attractive solution for manufacturers seeking to reduce production costs and environmental impact while maintaining high-quality products.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A41 | A41H3/007 |
| A | A41 | A41H3/08 |
| A | A41 | A41H42/00 |
| D | D03 | D03D1/00 |
| D | D03 | D03D15/54 |
| D | D04 | D04H1/02 |
| D | D06 | D06B11/0096 |
| D | D06 | D06C23/02 |
| D | D06 | D06L4/20 |
| D | D06 | D06L4/70 |
| D | D06 | D06M10/005 |
| D | D06 | D06P5/132 |
| D | D06 | D06P5/137 |
| D | D06 | D06P5/153 |
| D | D06 | D06P5/158 |
| D | D06 | D06P5/2005 |
| G | G06 | G06Q30/0621 |
| A | A41 | A41D1/06 |
| D | D05 | D05D2305/08 |
| D | D05 | D05D2305/24 |
| D | D06 | D06C2700/31 |
| D | D10 | D10B2501/00 |
| G | G06 | G06F16/951 |
| G | G06 | G06Q10/087 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Textile manufacturing and finishing, specifically laser-based apparel processing technologies, involving advanced fabric treatment techniques, digital manufacturing processes, and precision finishing systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with expertise in textile engineering, laser technologies, and digital manufacturing, typically holding a bachelor's or master's degree in textile engineering, materials science, or related field, with 3-5 years of industrial experience in apparel manufacturing and finishing processes
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the PTD's disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's laser finishing methodology, leveraging known digital manufacturing techniques and sensor technologies to incrementally improve apparel production processes. The proposed variations demonstrate standard engineering problem-solving approaches by integrating computational optimization, precision control, and adaptive manufacturing strategies. These modifications would be considered routine design iterations within the established technological framework of laser-based textile finishing.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,014 |
|---|---|
| Title | Apparel products by using fabric templates and laser finishing |
| Assignee(s) | Levi Strauss & Co. |