Abstract: A method and apparatus for indexing the waistband of trousers into belt loop attachment positions at the stitching station of a sewing machine is disclosed. A stepper motor is drivingly engaged to an indexer clamp, which engages the end portion of the waistband. The stepper motor drives the indexer clamp and pulls the waistband through the stitching station. A detector comprising dual rollers is pivotally connected to respective lever arms. Signal generators detect the presence of a waistband seam and signals a controller which correlates the position of the side seam as a reference point with the desired attachment positions of belt loops. The controller signals the stepper motor to stop when each of successive belt loop attachment positions move into the stitching station. The controller operates a belt loop delivery system which feeds a belt loop to the stitching station. Work holding clamps secure the belt loop onto the waistband.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for indexing the waistband of trousers into belt loop attachment positions at the stitching station of a sewing machine is disclosed. A stepper motor is drivingly engaged to an indexer clamp, which engages the end portion of the waistband. The stepper motor drives the indexer clamp and pulls the waistband through the stitching station. A detector detects the presence of a waistband seam and signals a controller which correlates the position of the side seam as a reference point with the desired attachment positions of belt loops. The controller signals the stepper motor to stop when each of successive belt loop attachment positions move into the stitching station. The controller operates a belt loop delivery system which feeds a belt loop to the stitching station. Work holding clamps secure the belt loop onto the waistband. The belt loops are stitched onto the waistband as each successive belt loop attachment position enters the stitching station.