Abstract: Disclosed are various systems and features for use with a machine, such as a sewing machine, to facilitate patch library systems that may enable the storage and retrieval of patch configuration information. Such systems and features may be useful in the context of performing an action along a self-guided path on a substrate.

Abstract: Disclosed are various systems and features for use with a machine, such as a sewing machine, to facilitate tacking operations that may aid in the securing of objects to substrates prior to subsequent operations. Such systems and features may be useful in the context of performing an action along a self-guided path on a substrate.

Abstract: An automated flanging machine is provided. More specifically, a machine for automatically sewing a flange onto a work panel having a consistent corner radius and a straight edge is provided. The machine has a table adapted to support a work panel, a sewing head mounted directly adjacent to the table for performing a sewing operation on the work panel, a turning arm mounted adjacent to the table, and a rear conveyor for selectively moving the work panel on the table. The table may include a corner pivot mechanism for stabilizing the panel while the turning arm turns the panel 90 degree relative to an initial position, and for maintaining a consistent corner radius for sewing. The machine may also include a rear material guide and encoding arm for measuring the progression of the work panel as it is sewn along a side by the sewing head.

Abstract: The device comprises a tubular member (377) on which a tubular knitted article (M) is disposed and an operating head (1432) positioned in front of an end of the tubular member, comprising a plurality of contact members (1467; 1447, 1453). The contact members comprise a pair of wheels (1447; 1453) and a plurality of pads 1467).

Abstract: A sewing machine having a bed, a first guide assembly, and a second guide assembly. The first and second guide assemblies are moveably disposed on the bed and spaced apart from each other. At least one of the first and second guide assemblies are actuated when a sensor detects that a workpiece is mispositioned.

Abstract: A method for straightening the edges of a work piece. The method includes the steps of determining the average edge position of each edge of the work piece, calculating an average edge line for each edge of the work piece, determining an actual corner point for each corner of the work piece, calculating a determined edge line through each of the actual corner points of the work piece, determining a number of actual edge points, determining if actual edge points are within the determined edge lines, and adjusting the determined edge lines inward until the actual edge points are within the determined edge lines.

Abstract: A work piece finishing apparatus including a cutter assembly, a binding tape applier, and a flat bed sewing head.

Abstract: A device is taught for holding a sew cord or corded piping while it is cut and for manufacturing sew cord with a desired seam allowance. The device incorporates an adjustable seam allowance by providing notches cut for holding the sew cord after or during stitching and during the cutting of the seam allowance. Various methods of adjusting the length of the seam and automating the process include having variable distance cuts, having a reduced side for tracking a cutting blade incorporating the device into a presser and incorporating a cutting blade in the product.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sewing machine for positioning a line of stitches a predetermined distance from an edge of a workpiece. The edge tracing sewing machine includes a machine body with a reciprocable needle mounted therein. The needle is reciprocated between an upward and a downward position at which it pierces a moving workpiece, passing a thread therethrough. The edge tracing sewing machine also includes a plurality of illuminable units that communicate stitch positioning to a machine operator, allowing the operator to manually adjust the lateral position of the workpiece, maintaining the stitch positioning within a predetermined tolerance from specifications.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (40) and a method of aligning an edge (7) of a textile material web (43). Said material web (43) is delivered so as to lie at least in sections flat on top of a work surface (10) and, while lying on the work surface (10), is conveyed in a conveying direction (9) by means of a conveying device (11, 12a, 12b). An adjusting member (46, 47) is applied from above at least in sections against the material web (43) in the course of conveying in conveying direction (9) in the region of at least one edge (7) extending parallel to the conveying direction (9), wherein the material web (43) is at least slightly pressed between adjusting member (46, 47) and work surface (10). The adjusting member (46, 47) is, on the one hand, displaceable synchronously with the conveying motion of the material web (43) parallel to the conveying direction (9).

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for converting a roll of material into various products such as curtains, draperies, valances, or the like. Specifically, the apparatus includes a roll let off for supporting and feeding a roll of material or cloth. After the let off, the edges of the cloth are cut if desired and are engaged by a pair of edge folding and positioning stations for forming vertically folded edges. The folded edges are then converted into hems and sewn into the material by a pair of corresponding hem sewing heads and cloth advancers. Once vertical hems are formed in the cloth, the cloth is cut to predetermined lengths and if desired, folded in a predetermined pattern. The folded pattern can then be transported to a sewing station for further sewing the material into a desired product.