Abstract: An automated sewing system including a loading unit, a seam folding unit and a sewing unit which are mounted on a support table. The automated sewing system further includes a control system for monitoring and controlling the loading unit, seam folding unit and sewing unit. The loading unit includes a loading assembly for receiving the two articles and a conveying assembly for advancing the two articles to the seam folding unit. The seam folding unit includes a seam folder for receiving the edges of the articles therethrough to interlock the edges of the articles and a conveying assembly for advancing the two articles to the sewing unit. The sewing unit includes a sewing machine which sews the two articles together at the seam to produce a sewn product.

Abstract: A combination stitching system including a pneumatic sensing apparatus which operates to assure the presence of a material to be stitched is in a proper location before machine operation is possible is disclosed. The combination system comprises a machine (10) for stitching or sewing a material (30) with thread (26). At least one reciprocating needle (12) receives thread (26) through an aperture (28) for stitching the material (30). A power source (20) is connected by a drive linkage (18) which includes a clutch (21) and which provides reciprocating motion to needle (12). The clutch (21) operates to selectively connect and disconnect the power source from the reciprocating needle (12) by means of an activating means (22). To assure that the reciprocating needle operates only when a work piece (30) is in a position to be stitched, there is also included a pneumatic sensing apparatus (32).