Project Background-Sewing Machine

History: Disruptive Technology

Many patents were filed in the 1850s in the race to develop the perfect sewing machine. The history of the sewing machine involves patent infringement lawsuits, rioting tailors (who burned one sewing machine factory to the ground) and, eventually, a licensing agreement that combined the best features of the competing machines.

During the second half of the 19th century, sewing machines were sold in quantities exceeding 500,000 per year. Many industries were revolutionized, including tailoring, glove-making, leather work and shoe-making. In addition. this efficient machine freed women from hand-sewing all the clothes for their households.

This Singer treadle sewing machine was produced by the Singer company around 1910.  These simple and sturdy machines continues to be used in areas of the world where electricity is not readily available.

Purpose

The purpose of this analysis is to understand how the sewing machine transfers power from the user input at the treadle to the upper part of the machine which moves the needle.