Laser Fabric Finishing: Advanced Apparel Manufacturing Tech
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent (Apparel products by using fabric templates and laser finishing) introduced a method for producing apparel products using laser finishing. However, this method had limitations in terms of fabric type compatibility, finish pattern versatility, and inventory management. The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing a control module that optimizes the laser finishing process based on fabric type and desired finish appearance, a fabric pre-treatment step to enhance the effectiveness of the laser finishing process, and a system for managing inventory of apparel products.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The invention's novelty lies in the integration of a control module that optimizes the laser finishing process based on fabric type and desired finish appearance, the introduction of a fabric pre-treatment step, and the development of a system for managing inventory of apparel products. These features provide a significant improvement over the original patent, enabling more efficient, safe, and customizable production of apparel products.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include using different types of laser finishing machines, integrating additional pre-treatment steps, or developing customized software for managing inventory and production. Variations of the invention could also include applying the laser finishing process to different types of fabrics or products, such as upholstery or accessories.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in the apparel manufacturing industry, enabling companies to produce high-quality, customized products more efficiently and effectively. The target market includes apparel manufacturers, fashion brands, and retailers seeking to improve their production processes and offer unique products to customers.
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 apparel production, with specialized expertise in laser finishing techniques, fabric processing, and garment design optimization
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced technical knowledge in textile engineering, familiar with laser processing technologies, fabric treatment methods, and industrial manufacturing systems for apparel production
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's laser finishing methodology by introducing incremental improvements in process control, inventory management, and customization techniques that are consistent with known technological advancements in textile manufacturing.
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. |