Abstract: A text-to-speech system for a stitcher includes a tablet device in operative communication with the stitcher; the tablet device further comprising a display screen; a memory; a microprocessor; communication module; a command input device; a speaker; and a text-to-speech algorithm. An associated method includes the steps of accepting a command for operation of the stitcher from a user; transmitting the command to the text-to-speech algorithm; and producing an audible confirmation of the command through the speaker.

Abstract: A voice command system for a stitcher includes a tablet device in operative communication with the stitcher; the tablet device further comprising a display screen; a memory; a microprocessor; a communication module; and a microphone; and a speech recognition algorithm operatively communicating with said tablet device. An associated method includes the steps of digitizing a user's spoken command; transmitting the digitized spoken command to the speech recognition algorithm; producing a list of words possibly comprising the spoken command; parsing the list of possible words to identify the spoken command; and initiating execution of the spoken command.

Abstract: A stitcher is provided that includes a needle to stitch a workpiece, a motor to operate the needle, and a stitch regulator in communication with and capable of controlling a speed of the motor. A controller is in communication with the stitch regulator. The stitcher also includes at least one accelerometer in communication with the controller to determine an acceleration of the stitcher with respect to the workpiece. A signal representing the acceleration of the stitcher with respect to the workpiece is utilized to adjust the operation of the needle as necessary.

Abstract: A stitcher is provided that includes a needle to stitch a workpiece, a motor to operate the needle, and a stitch regulator in communication with and capable of controlling a speed of the motor. A controller is in communication with the stitch regulator. The stitcher also includes at least one accelerometer in communication with the controller to determine an acceleration of the stitcher with respect to the workpiece. A signal representing the acceleration of the stitcher with respect to the workpiece is utilized to adjust the operation of the needle as necessary.

Abstract: A stitcher is provided that includes a needle configured to place stitches in a fabric that is moved therethrough. The stitcher includes a sensor positioned below the fabric to monitor stitches placed in the fabric. A microcontroller is provided configured to receive data from the sensor and, based on such data, to compare one or more attributes of the monitored stitches with one or more predetermined parameters relating at least one attribute of the fabric. The predetermined parameter may be either hardcoded inn the microcontroller or input by a user of the stitcher prior to beginning operation of the machine. When the attributes of the monitored stitches fall outside of the predetermined parameters, the microcontroller initiates notification of the user.