Abstract: Method and apparatus for automatically and sequentially transferring and inverting preformed pocket-like fabric blanks from a first sewing station where a first seam is applied to an outturned marginal edge to a second sewing station where a second parallel seam is applied to the inturned marginal edge. A first pickup mechanism identifies, lifts, and transfers multiple ply fabric work pieces from the surface of a work table onto a spreading jaw mechanism by clamping on the upper ply or plies of the work piece with a pair of gripping fingers. The first mechanism is inserted between the plies and operable to grip the upper ply of the work piece, even where the confronting, unseamed, marginal edges of the work piece are not aligned. A second spreading jaw mechanism includes a pair of vertically spreadable jaws onto which the fabric blank is placed. A third inverting mechanism slides between the spread jaws to invert the work piece onto a split mandrel.

Abstract: Stacks of fabric plies are sequentially positioned by a carousel feeding apparatus in an unloading position where the uppermost ply in a stack, so positioned, is individually and sequentially separated from the stack, and an edge thereof presented between the jaws of a gripping device. Once the gripping device is satisfied that one and only one fabric ply is in place between the jaws, the single ply is transferred over onto the receiving end of a conveyor for further processing. The fabric separation occurs by means of an aerodynamic technique which tends to lift by suction the uppermost ply from the remainder of the stack. A proximity switch determines the spacing between the gripper jaws which spacing confirms the existence of one and only one fabric ply therein.

Abstract: Fabric pieces or panels are releasably mounted in a unique materials handling clip or cartridge to facilitate handling, identification, storage, transportation, and registration during subsequent sewing operations. The clips are mechanically assembled onto a magazine where both the clips and fabric panels are maintained in spaced relation to each other. A plurality of magazines are mounted on a loader/feeder apparatus which enables the clips to be automatically and sequentially unloaded and fed to a subsequent processing operation, then reloaded into the magazine. The clips permit easy handling and automatic registration of the separate fabric pieces into sewing fixtures for automated sewing and/or assembly operations while maintaining a prescribed sequence.

Abstract: A three channel, binary coding technique, especially adapted for identifying intermittently, erratically, or continuously moving objects along a linear path (conveyor track, roadway, or the like). Three parallel channels of coded information are each provided with some type of photoelectric, electronic, or mechanical indicating means or indicia representative of one of two logic states, which logic states on each channel change during each successive segment or interval thereon. A change in the timing channel indicates to a sensing means that a new binary bit of intelligence is to be transmitted. The order in which the coding channels change during the succeeding segment then indicate whether the binary bit being generated is a ONE, a ZERO, or in the alternative whether the reading is erroneous or invalid.

Abstract: Personnel and their garments are grounded through a uniquely designed, common body/garment strap which includes:an elastic closed loop fabric member having an elastic tab extending therefrom;conductive yarns in both the closed loop member and its extension;the elastic extension or tab electrically connected to the garment; andthe closed loop member connected to ground.Thus, both the garment and operator are grounded, while the elastic conductive tab allows freedom of movement of the garment with respect to the operator's body.

Abstract: An embroidery hoop fixture for releasably retaining a fabric swatch between a base member having an opening with a beveled edge on which a fabric swatch is supported in cooperation with a pair of clamping sectors positioned on the base member and fabric swatch for releasably retaining the fabric swatch with the sectors forming a coincident opening with the base member opening. The sectors are provided with depending base member beveled lugs for cooperative releasable engagement with the base member beveled edge. The pair of sectors is yieldably connected together for releasable clamping engagement of the sectors to the base member by means of the depending lugs.

Abstract: A wheeled skid jack is pivotally and releasably connected to a wheeled electric power pack in which the skid jack is provided with a lever handle to manipulate the skid jack into engagement with the skid or pallet using the skid jack wheels as a fulcrum. The wheeled electric power pack supplies current to a gear motor mounted on the skid jack. Electrical controls are provided for controlling the direction of displacement of the skid jack and power pack by driving the gear motor in the desired direction.

Abstract: A static dissipative garment configuration for persons employed in the manufacture and testing of sensitive electronic components. The garment is formed from a fabric which exhibits an electrical resistance of less than 10.sup.8 ohms per unit square and a decay time of no greater than 0.05 seconds. The garments also include tapered sleeves, steel snaps and are at least 3/4 length and include side slits extending from the bottom hem upwardly.

Abstract: A constant pressure tension attachment for a sewing machine in which fluid means applies a predetermined constant force on a fabric guide means within the limits of fabric guide means displacement.

Abstract: A tacking sewing machine having a presser foot and needle for tacking multiple fabric plies in which a fabric limiting or stop means positions the fabric plies to be tacked and fabric guide means cooperatively associated therewith guides fabric plies to the limiting means in juxtaposition to a presser foot.