US2266135A - Knitting machine - Google Patents

Description

F. G. WEISBECKER Dec. 16, 1941,

KNITT ING MACHINE Filed March 19, 1940 7 Sheets-Sheet 2 :Snvcntor @zum Ya @i @NQ/Lnb@ fee/v @mmx 16,1941. F.- G. wElsBEcKr-:R

KNVITTING MACHINE Filed March 19, 1940 '7 Sheets-Sheet 5 l Dec. 16, 1941.- F. G. wElsBEcKl-:R 2,266,135

" KNITTING MACHINE Filed March 19, 1940 7 Sheets-Sheet 4 Iuwcutor attorney Dec. 16, 1941. F. G. wElSBEcKER 2,266,135

KNITTING MACHINE Filed March 19, 1940 7 Sheets-Sheet 5 B12-m1@ @We Labecwv B66161941. -F.G.wEisBf-:KER 2,266,136

` KNITTING MACHINE Filed March 19, 1940 7 sheets-Sheet 6 noentor 3mm 9.61m 66cm Gttorneg i O n v y Bg 2 v used in the production in succession,

Patented Dec. 1.6.,

. muss c. wenb'eem.'

corporation of Appuwxmrmon 19,1949,

, Hosiery -Patents Incorporated, Lansdale,

Pennsylvania semi No. 324m' s (j 'm' v(or set-110') This invention relates to improvements in .y

- and the horizontal knitting machines, and particularly to improvements in the catch bar mechanism 'of straight knitting machines', such as are used, f or example,

in the production offull-fashioned hosiery.

expression catch bar mechanism, as'used hereby a so-.called front or vertical catch barmotion,' catch bar movement is provided byv a so-called back or horizontal catch bar motion. The so-called front or vertical catch single front catch bar,

bar motion includes a A shaft and a system of levers, which are operin, is to be understood as including' a catchhar and also theA means/which actuate the catch bar and control its operation. l l

The straightknitting of full-fashioned hosiery comprise a plurality of knitting sections for machines nowfcommonly ated from themainvcamY shaft offthe 'knitting l'machina The .back or horizontal motion for the simultaneouslyl producing 4a corresponding number of stocking'blanks. Each of these'knitting. l,

sections includes a bank of knitting needles,`one or more yarn carriers,

for laying yarn along the,

needles, a series of reciprocableslnkers to be ad-v vanced in succession forsinking the laidfyarn between certain of said dividers whichfare moved en masse to complete the yarn sinking vancing `the sinkersvcomprises a longitudinally operation.` The means for adneedlesfand a series of reciprocable 'slur cock bar, which supports a number of slur camsthere being a slurjcamv for' each knitting sectionjoil the machine.l `Eaclislui' cam moves with the slur cock bar and'advances.' the sinkers of the corresponding knitting section. In some types of conventional' straight knitting, machines, the siurvcamsmve direct engagement with/ the` ,corresponding sinkers. In certain other types of straight knitting machineaeachsinker is engageddirectly by j These. sinlrerv jaclrs are directly Aca'rn of the' same vknitting a sinker jack. engaged by the slur section and are operated 'in succession ltherebyto tion/of theasso,

provide a corresponding oper ciated sinkers.

lthe back catch bar motion in a catch bar comprises a single backcatch bar shaft y and a system of Ilevers which are operated from the main cam shaft of the knitting machine..

'I'he cam shaft of the conventional' straight knitting machine is provided with a number of cam discs, which have cam surfaces on their peripheral edges.` The so-called front and back catchv bar motions each include cam levers hav'- -ing rollers or followers which ride onfthe `periphery of certain of these cam discs. Stout springs vare provided to vurge the cam levers of tain contact between their cam rollers and the peripheries of the corresponding cam discs on the main -cam shaft. The -cam levers of the front catch: bar motion are lurged ,into engagement with their cani discs by reason'of Athe weight of the catch bar, whichforce may be" supplemented by a conventional cam lever spring.

iso

The 'dividers-,of conveuonn 4stringhe vknitting machines are Vadvanced en 'masse immediately upon completion of the sinker advaricirig opera-V tion by the slur cams. advancingmove# ment of the dividers is provided byv a lcatch bar. This catch bar is operated sofas to have moveknitting machineI for operating the.- dividers of all the knitting-,sections in the ,man-

Another feature of many conventional straight 'knitting machines is their substantial length, due to the fact that they usually contain as many .as 20` or 24 knitting sections arrangedin end to end relation.'l It is the practice in the art to A `provide these g multi-section: straight knitting machines with aj single, unitary catch bar, a singleunitary front catch bar shaft. and a single, unitary backv catchvbar shaft, each ybar` and shaft extending substantially vthe sinkers and ner described above. The conventionalcatch bar is `inadeas ay single.` solid bar, or from several sectionswhich arerigidly lconnected to act as a ment lin both al horizontal direction and a ver.

- tical direction. "The catch bar, according'to'contimes in engagement 1 Y with the dividers Aso'that' the latter areactuated as it travels horizontally in both ventional practice, is at all by the catch bar its advancing and withdrawing movements. The I catch bar is lowered into engagement withthef advanced sinkers, tracted' as the lcatch ward position. A i In conventional straight knitting machines,

vertical vmovement of the Vcatch bar ise ected the t f5?,

sinkel'- la belliiv held by The that the catch bar does not act in` proper timed y relation `'with outer operating elements of the y knitting machine. Asa result, machine parts are Q apt to be damaged, and hosiery is so that the-utter -wlu hanf bar is withdrawn to its rear#v perfectly produced;` j For example, the catchV bar "is sometimes prematurely lowered into yengagement'withthe sinkers. This may be-due vtosome 'machine part getting out of adjustment.4 If any the catch bar whenthe slur is attempting to operate it,- a sinker direction to main- Y entire length of the conventional catch bar mechanism has a number of disadvantages. It' frequently .happens drawings. which smash usually takes-place. In a sinker smash, the sinkers are broken or damaged. Ii the machine has sinker jacks, they will also be broken -or damaged.

A single, unitary catch bar for a straight knitting machine having a number of knitting sections presents certain objections. It 'is difficult, for example, to maintain the entire length of the catch bar in alignment and to have the catch bar operate the sinkers and dividers throughout the machine in substantially the same-manner. Ii the catch bar mechanism oij'- conventional knitting machines requires adjustment at any knitting-section of the machine, it is extremely diilicult to provide the adjustment without at the same time disturbing vthe adjustment oi the catch bar mechanism at other` vention to provide an improved catch bar mechanism for straight knitting machines.

Another objectv of this invention is to provide improvements in a straight knitting machine catch bar mechanism, whereby premature 'engagement between the catch'bar and the sinkers is avoided. j

Still another object is to provide such a control for a catch bar of a straight knitting machine that the catch ber wm be ce1-tem to act in the desired timed relationship with the other operating mechanisms of the knitting machine. A4 further object is to simplify` catch bar mechanisms.

Still another object is to eliminate the need for the conventionalffront catch bar motion. By attaining this object, the knitting machine is relieved of much weight' and is provided with more freespace at its front.

Still another object is to provide a novel and improved form of catch bar means, and novel means for operating andl controlling the same.

Another object of this invention is to provide -a knittingnachine with a catch bar divided linto sections, and means for so supporting and operating the catch bar sections that each may be individually adjusted and actuated according to the. requirements ofthe corresponding sinkers anddividers. A

Btill another object is to provide an improved vertical catch bar motion and also an improved horizontal catch bar motion.`

Other objectsand advantages of this invention will be clear from the following description, the appended claims Y and the accompanying illustrate a preferred embodiment. f e

In the accompanying'drawings, Figure i is a transverse, vertical cross-sectional view of 'a straight knitting machine, and shows a catch bar mechanism embodying this invention.

Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a detail of me 1.v Y Y Figure 8.

Figure 5 is a view corresponding to Figure i, l

and shows another embodiment oi this invention. Figure 6 is a rear elevational view of a detail of Figure 5.

Figure 7 is a transverse, vertical. sectional viewthrough a straight knitting machine and illustrates a further'embodiment of Athis invention. i

Figure 8 is a transverse vertical section of a straight knittingmachine, and illustrates an embodimentof this invention whicheliminates entirely the need` for the conventional type of front catch bar motion. y

Figures 9 through 12 are views to illustrate a sequence of operations forv the embodiment of Figure i3 is la perspective view of another embodiment which eliminates the need for the conventional front catch bar motion:

Figure 14 is an enlarged viewoi a detail of' Figure 2l is a detail view taken on line 2i-'2i oi' Figure 20. l

Referring now to the drawings, conventional straight knitting machines include a number of machine frames i, a front rail or beam 2, a rear beam or rail l, and a main cam shaft "4. The usual practice-is to space the framesl I a distance of two knitting sections KB. It is also the usual practice to have the rails 2 and 3 and the cam shaft I extend the full .length ofy the machine andbeurmortcd by the framel.'

Each knitting section K8 usually has a number of conventional yarn carriers (not shown) for laying yarn along sinkers l and s conventional sion by a slur cam I, there being a slur-cam-l for each knitting section KB. 'Eachof these slur cams l is carried by a slur cock b ox il, and all of the slur cock boxes Il are secured to a common slur cock bar ii. The slur cock bo'xes il are mounted for reciprocating sliding movementon .a stationary bar Il according to vconventional practice. The slur cock bar ii vusually extends the combined length oi' all the knitting sections KS and may be longitudinally reciprocated by the conventional Coulier mechanism. or any other suitable means. It will thus be understood Figure 3 is a rear elevational view of the struoil that allot 'the slur cock boxes Il and their slur with the sinkers l the cams partake of the reciprocatory movement of the slur cock bar il a is effective in both directions of travel to actuate the jacks 1 and advance the sinkers 5 in succession.

At the completion .of the operation for advancing the sinkers 5, the dividers 4 are moved forwardly en masse sinking the yarn between dles (not shown). Thismovement 4 is provided by catch bar means longitudinally extending groov side (see Figure 2). v

The catch bar means have movement in both vertical and horizontal directions, whereby itl is effective to advance the dividers I and retract both thedividers 4 and thesinkers I. y

Proper operation of the catch bar means l2 calls for its being placed in rearward position (see Figures l and 2) priorto the sinker advancing operation of-the slur cams 5, so that the forward edge I4 of'its underside is above ythe heads or butts Il of the sinkers 5, andl its groove I3 retainsv the heads or butts Ii of the dividers l. 'I'he catch bar means i2 is, therefore. in such position as' not to interfere being advanced or proiected forwardly toward the frontof the machine by slur cams 9. During the sinker advancing movement, the catch bar means l2 is maintained in its elevated rearward position and the dividers the usual knitting neeof the dividers. I2 havin! a to complete the operation for I2 is so operated asftoA an upper elevated and and that each slur camA I2 in its under armli. Levers to front catch bar shafts 4|,.and are actuated f from the cam shaft 4 to operate the lifter arms 26. me levers I'I'are pivotally connected to their respective lifter arms. The cam-levers The front catch bar motion includes connecting pieces l5, each o f which is rigidly secured at one end to,the catch bar means 'I2 and is supported at its opposite end by lmeans of a lifter I1 and I4 are adiustably secured Il are :provided with rollers or'follower's 42 for engagement with the periphery of the knitting c ams'4l. Cam lever springs '(not shownlarc sometimes provided to maintain the followers 42 and cams 4lV in engagementalthough the catch bar means -I2, if of heavy construction, may be sufficient to keep ofcam4l. Anarrowingcamllismually'procent cam followersV A a ynovel and improved form. The catch bar' means I2 comprises anumber of sections preferremain in their rearward position (see Figures 1 maintains its elevated postion.. is advanced toward the front of the machine to advance the dividers 5 en masse. After the catch bar means l2 reaches a forward position, it is lowered to bring its front edge I4 below the tops of the sinker heads orv butts I5 and to place the latter within .the groove I3. During this lowering operation of the catch bar means I2. both it and the sinkers 5 are in an advanced position. The catch bar means i2, while in its loweredposition, is moved rearwardly to withdraw or retract both the dividers 5 and the sinkers 5. When the sinkers 5 and the dividers 4 reachl their rearward position, the catch bar means I2 is raised to its bar shafts 24. The shifter arms are pivotailyA secured to the levers 25 and move the catch bar means l2 toward and away from the front of the machine (at the lright inFigure l) during oscillation of the back catch bar shafts 24. A cani roller or follower 2i is carried by each of vided at the side of each front catch bar motion knitting cam move into operative 42 when the cam shaft 4 is shifted for the usual narrowing' operation. 1

The catch bar means I2 of this inventionis of ably one section for every two' knitting sections KS. Figures3and4showamachinehavingsix knitting sections KS and the catch bar means i2 in three sections numbered- 45, 4I and 41 i'el Each of these three sections 45, 45 and 41 may be considered a short catch bar for spectively.

the sinkers and dividers of two knitting sections. Each of the outer two catch bar sections 45 and 41 has secured to its innerend a flatplate-like member 48. These members 44 project beyond the ends of the respective catch bar sections 4I and 41 and provide a rest or support for the ends of the intermediate catch bar section 44. 'I'he the cam levers 21 .and is held against the pe- Y riphery of a suitable cam 2l on the main'cam shaft 4 by means of a stout spring Il' (see Fig' ure 1). The cams Il are knitting cams, and

each cam 25 has at its side a so-called narrowing cam 3| (see Figure 3), which in known manner is moved into engagement with'the adjacent cam roller 2l when the main cam shaft 4 is longitudinally shifted for the usual narrowing opera- 7 tion.

catch bar section n is laterally and' freely suaable on the members 4I, that is, it is freeto slide on themembers 48, so as to be'independently movable at all times toward. andaway from the front of the knitting machines. The catch bar section 4i, however. is so supported by the members 48 that it is elevated by the catchbar sections and 41 when the latter are raised. As the catch bar section 48 rests by gravityaction on the members 45, the section 45 may partake of the movement of the catch bar sections 4l and 41 when the latter are lowered.

VAccording to the Figures 3 and 4 construction.

eachof the three catch bar sections 45, 44 and 41 is provided with a separate-back or horizontal catch bar motion, but only the catch bar sections 45 and 41 are provided with a front or vertical catch bar motion, catch bar section 44 derives its vertical movementfrom the outer two catch bar sections 45 and 41.

' The Figures 3 and 4 construction, therefore,

includes three independent back. catch bar inotions and two independent front catch bar motions.v Each back catch bar motion has a cam lever 21, a catch bar shaft 25, a set of two levers 25, and a setof two shifter arms 25. The shifter arms 25 of each set are preferably arranged adjacent the opposite ends ofthe correspondingk catch bar section (45. 46 or 41). The three catch bar shafts 28 preferably have their ends journaled in bearings 50 which are carried by the frames I. If desired, an oil soaked pad, or

other lubricating means may be interposed between the adjacent ends of the shafts 2l.

The two front catch bar motions of Figures 3 and 4 are entirely independent. Each of these the ro1ier'42 on 4i. These narrowing .cams 22- `engagement with the adiav as the intermediatel leverII, airont catch bar shaft' II, a set of two levers I1. a set of two lifter'arms II, and a set tivejcatch bar section of the catch bar means l.

of two connecting' pieces Il. nie connecting pieces II in each set thereotrare preferably secured to thecorresponding catch bar section A(Il or 41) 'adjacent the opposite ends thereof.

Inthe practice of this invention according to 'the Figures 3 andi construction, each catchbar section (Il. II md Il) and its particular operatingmeansmay beseparateiy adjusted andrealated according to the-requirements oi its correspending twoknittings'ectionsxs. Bhouldanv one of the catch bar sections Il, 4I and Il get out'oi adjustmentor become inoperative, the .other two catch bar' sections may continue to function indeshed manner. Either one of the end catch bar sections Il and Il is capabieof providing vthe desired vertical movement for the intermediate catch bar section". As catch bar,` section anhoeren; .aimable (met is movablev toward or away vtrom the ironici theA tbe'plate members lII, each of the unreeibscror nomma einen bumounmmay f beiinaivmuauy without erecting' me operations, adjustments or timingof the other two backcatch barmoti'onsand their respective catch bar sections.

n thisinvenuon isappiied to s knitting mschine having more thansix knitting sectionsjKS,

it will be obvioushow the invention may be ap'-v plied thereto. For example,V a twenty-two sectim machine maybe provided with'elevenhar sections,a oorrespondingnumber oi iridependentback N hoilllihl hd ich Brul,4

tions, and a separate front orjverti'cal catch bar' motion foreach o! the odd-numbered catch bar sections. The 'even-numbered .catch bar sections may be'supported, raised and lowered in the manner iliustratedand described -for lbar. section 4I of Figures 3 ande.'

invention `also provides means' for so oon- -trclling the catch bar means i! that thesame 'may not be accidentally lowered while the cams I are performing 'the linker advancing operations.k Thisc'stch bar control includes one slur or more control members or elements II. With l aknitting machine as shown in Figures-3 and 4,.

theremay be three ofthe control members II,

oneio'r each ofthe three catch bar sections 4l.

Each control member II is so carried and simported by the slur cock bar Il that its fiat top side IIpasses under andk then beyond the corresponding roller IZgin each complete stroke of the slur cock bar-il. The relationship of each control member II and its roller I2 is such that the top surface II of the control member II is below the roller I2 during the entire time that the sinkers I are being advanced by the shit cams I.y The surface I may beatsuchelevation as to actually provide support for the correspond- 1 permit the respective catch bar section to place soY its edge M in front of the sinker butts II before the sinkers I are' advanced.

Asall the control elements Iii are similarly constructed and have similar operations, a descriptioni'or one of the control elements II will sumce for all of them. When the yarn carriers Y (not shown) are laying thread, the catch bar means I2 is in its rearward and elevated position (see Figures 1, 2 and 3) and the slur cock bar I I is in position to start a stroke, for example, toward the left (see Figures 3 and 4). At this time, each slurcam I and its slur cock box II isjarranged somewhat 'beyond the end of the bank -of sinkers I and dividers I of the corresponding knitting section KS. Each of the control members II is also now in such position Y that its top side 5I is vbeyond and somewhat to II and Il. If desired, the control member Il for the central catch bar section 4I may be omitted, and the latter may depend on the other catch bar sections Il and" for being maintained in the elevated position during sinker u advancing operations. The control members II are preferably arranged incluse proximity to the catch bar means 'i2 and may be actuatedv by suitable means which is conveniently located.

The operating means for 'each member II may be a reciprocating means having a path of movement paralleling that of the slur cams I. A

particularly suitableoperating meansvfor the control members II is thereciprocable slur. cock bar Il. Each control member Il may, there-` fore, be carried by a set of brackets Il which are suitably secured to the ,slur cock bar Il,

fas for example, to the 'under side thereof (see `Figures 1 to 3). Y

Each control member II may,A have the form of a bar. 'as shown'in 'the gures, with a, flat top-side surface II and sloping ends II and I4 (see Figures 3 and 4). For each control mem-- ber II, there is a corresponding roller or folthe right of the 'corresponding roller I2 (see Figures 3 and 4). begins its travel to the left' (IOOking'at'FiZures 3 and 4) each control member II has its leading end II passunder and beyond the respective roller Il! before the corresponding slur cam I engages any ot the sinkers I. 1n the event a Vca tch bar section'is not in the raised position .whenthe slur 'cams I are approaching the sinkers l to beginV the sinker advancing operation,

theleaciin end I3 of the corresponding control member II actslas a cam race on the respective roller 'I2 and elevates the catch bar section to free the sinkers I for actuation by the slurl cams I. The suriace II of each Acontrol member Il is of such length as to continue to provide support 'for the respective roller I2 -and the correspondingcatchbar section (see Figures 1 and 2) luntil the slur cams I have projected all the sinkers l. It may be noted at this point that Figures l and2 show the lslur cam I in the process o! advancing the sinkers l, and a control member in position to preclude lowering of the associated catch bar. As. the slur cams I, their slur cock `boxes II, and the slur cock bar il approach the limit of their travel toward the left (looking at Figures V3 and 4), after thecompletion of the sinker advancing operation, the control members II reach a position in which they free the rollers 62. 'I'he back catch bar motions now operate to advance* the .catch bar means i2 and the dividers I toward the ,front of the machine. 'Ihe front catch bar motions operate to lower the catch bar means i2l into engagement with the' sinkers 5, after which the catch bar means I2 is lower member Il which is carried by the respecretracted and then elevated to the position shown When the slur cock bar Il opposite ends thereof corresponding to the faces.

in Figures 1, 2 and 3. The slur cock bar II now reverses its direction and travels .to the right (looking at Figures 3 and 4),. As the slur cock bar II travels to the right, the slur cams l, and the control members CI travel therewith in the same direction and function in substantially the same manner as whenmoving in the opposite direction. It will also be understood that the cam faces I3 and Il of a particular cam-like or control memberv Il' alternate as the leading cam face thereof during'reciprocatory movement of the clur cock bar II.

Each connecting piece Il is apertured at l5 to receive the reduced end portion or stud l0' at the top of the corresponding lifter arm`26 (see Figures 1 and 3). This stud 20' and aperture 35' connection provides an operative relation between each' arm 2l and the associated connecting piece Si during normal operation of the front catch bar motions. Should one ofthe latter motions get out of adjustment or become.

defective, the stud and aperture connections permit the necessary vertical movement of the connecting pieces Il relative to their lifting arms 36 when a control member 4Olcooperates with its roller 62 to raise the corresponding catch bar section andthe connecting pieces 3i secured thereto. During this relative vertical movement,

the pieces 35 rise to only a slight degree and do not slip off theends of the studs $0', Under normal operating conditions. the weight ofeach` catch bar section is suillcientio cause its connecting pieces 35 to rest on the 'upper ends of the, lifting arms 26 so that' each catch bar section will partake of the vertical movements 4of its lifting arms 3l.

Figures 5 and 6 The machine'shown in Figures 5 and -'is substantially the same as' that shown in Figures l through 4 except that Figures 5 and 6 show the catch bar control means arranged between the slur cock bar II and the front catch bar shaft 40. In Figures 5 and 6, the front catch bar shaft 4I) carries a third'lever arm I5. This lever arm 65 andthe cam lever 3l ymay be of integral conl struction, or the lever arm may be separately formed and adiustably, yet rigidly, secured-'to the shaft 40. TheY lever arm 85 is connected by la link sito the lower end of a two-arm lever 81.

This two-arm lever 61 is pivotally mounted on a shaft 68 which issuitably supported by the ma` chine frame. y y

The cam lever 61 and the front catchl bar `shaft 4I) are so connected by the link 86l and the arm or lever 65 that movement of one causes movementof the otherin reverse direction. For example, anti-clockwise movement of the cam lever 61 produces. clockwise movement of the shaft 40 (Figure 5) Ato elevate .the catch bar Y means I2. When the cam. produces clockwise.A l rotation of the shaft 40 for raising the catch bar same general function and construction'as the control members Sli'of Figures lA through 4. For

example, the 'control member 1li may have a flat side face 1I and cam faces 12 and 'I3 at the .75

ll, 83 and B4 respectively of-.the Figures 1 to 3 control members 60.

When the slur cock bar II begins a stroke and the slur cams 9 are about to begin a sinker advancing operation, .the catch ba'r means I2 should be in the elevated position thereof. If the catch bar means I2 is not in its upper position at this v time, the cam roller 69 will be in the path of the leading cam face (for example 12)'of the control member 1li. The roller 69 will then, in effect, roll or travel up the leading cam face (12 forexample) during movement of the slur cock `bar II and cause the lever 81 to rock anticlockwise (looking at Figure 5) before any sinker I is engaged -by its slur cam 9. This rocking movement of the cam lever 61 results in the catch bar means I2 being simultaneously elevated to free .the sinkers I for actuation by the correspond- .ing slur cams 9. The side 1I of control memberA 10 is of such character and length as to cooperate with the roller 6s to preclude lowering of the catch bar means I2 into engagement with the sinkers 5, as long as the slur cams 9 are actually engaged in advancing the sinkers 5. When the side 1I is opposite the roller 6l; the cam leveri'l' cannot be rotated clockwise (looking at Figure 5) and the front catch bar shaft 40 is prevented from having such motion as will permit lowering of the 'catch bar means I2 into engagement with the sinkers 5.

The side surface 1I of the control member 1l is also of such length that it passes beyond the roller 69 after completion of the sinker advancing operation .by the slur cams S and while the slur cockbar II is approaching the limit of its travel. 1 v

The back and front catch bar motions now proceed to function in such manner as to advance. lower, and retract the-catch barmeans I2 to secure the usual operations for the dividers 6 and the sinkers 5.

0n the return stroke of the slur cock bar'- I I,

. thecontrol member I0 travels therewithA and per,-

forms ythe same functions as those Just described for its operation in its other direction of move-v ment.

three section catch bar means I2 as in Figures 3 and" 4, it would be desirable to have a separate *I control foreach of the shafts 40.

` Figure 7 The construction of Figure '7,y has the samen sinker advancing mechanism and the same back catch bar motion as Figures '1 through s'. In Figure '1, however, a different arrangement is pro- .;4 vided vfor the front catch bar motion and also for the catch bar control. The front catch bar shaft 4.0, in the Figure 7 construction,.is in a po- -sition substantially closer to the back catch bar f shaft 28 to provide more free space at .the front of the machine. The lever arms 31 and 38 of the front catch bar motion, in the Figure 7 ccnstrucf-l.

tion, are so arranged o n the catch bar shaft 4l that the cam 4I moves the cam lever arm 38, the

catch bar shaft 40, and the lever arms 31 anticlockwseito raise the lifter arms or members 38 andthe catch' bar means I2 supported thereby.

When the cam 4I allows clockwise movement of the cam lever 38, ,the catch bar means. I2 may descend to its lower position by gravity action.

` ca m roller or follower 22 in the same manner as explained above with regard to the control member'lil and the roller 63 of Figures 4 and 5.

Inlthe Figure 'I construction, the cam lever 82 is rigidly, yet adjustably, secured to the front catch bar shaft 4I), so that they have the same oscillatory or rotary movement.

The cam-like member Il, like th'e control memberIIl, is adapted to actuate its cooperating lever 83 for turning the shaft Il and raising the catch bar means I2 if the latter is not elevated when the slur cams 9 are about to advance the sinkers Il. The cam-like member lll, like the control member' 1l, serves as a. barrier to clockwise movement of its cooperating lever 2l and prevents lowering of the catch bar means I2, as long as the sinkers are being advanced by the slur cams. When the sinker advancing operation is over, the cam-like member 20, like the control member "Il, arrives at a position to-free the lever 82 so that the catch bar means I2 maybe lowered during subsequent movement of the cam 4I. v

Figures 8 through 12 The construction of Figures 8 through l2 includes the back catch bar motion 25 through 20, but not the front catch bar motion 25 through 42, of the constructions in Figures l through 7. In the construction of Figures 8 through l2, a cam-like member Il and a roller or cam follower 2| are effective to raise the catch bar means I2 and thereby release the sinkers I when the slur cam l is about to begin the previously described slnker advancing operation. Th'e roller Il is supported by the catch lbar means I2 in substantially the sune manner as the roller I2 of Figures l, 2, 3 and 4. The cam-like member Il is also supported from the slur cock bar I I by means of brackets l2 in substantially the same manner aslthe cam-like members i are supported in Figures 1 to 4. The roller II and the cam $0 also cooperate in substantially the same manner as described with respect to the cam-like members 6l and the rollers 62 of Figures 1 through 4.

One or more latch members 92 are provided yto releasably support th'e catch bar means I2 in the construction of Figures 8 through 12. Each latch member I2 is pivotally secured at its lower end to a stationary part of the machine, such as an extension M of the sinker supporting base II.

Each latch member is yieldingly urged against a suitably supported stationary pin 9| by means of a coil spring 91. The spring I'I is suitably anchored at one end to a stationary part of the machine and is effective to normally hold the latch Y member 22 in th'e upright position illustrated in Figures 8, 9 and 12. Each latch member 03 may have a roller Il for engaging the bottom surface of the catch bar means I2 so that the latter may be readily advanced and retracted by the back or horizontal catch bar motion. A groove 99 is so formedin the lower, rear edge of the catch bar `means I2 as to be in alignment with the roller 98 as the catch bar means I2 is being shifted b the back catch bar motion.

When the slur cam l is traveling and in the process of advancing the sinkers 5, the relative arrangement of the machine parts is as illustrated in Figures 8 and 9. The catch bar means I2 is now in its rearward elevated position and 6 supported by the latch member 93 as well as by the cam-like member 90.

When the slur cam! and th'e slur cock bar II approach the limit of their travel and all the sinkers have been advanced, the cam-like member l0 SII is positioned similarly to the cam-like members l0 in Figure 3 and does not provide support for the catch bar means I2. The latch members I3, however, are still in the position illustrated by Figure 9 and support the catch bar means in 1s the elevated position thereof.

The catch bar means I2 may now be shifted forwardly by the back catch bar motion to advance the dividers 6. As the catch bar means I2 moves forwardly, it brings its groove 99 into position for receiving the roller 98 of the latch member l2 (see Figure 10). The groove 99 is shaped as a cam so as to cooperate with the roller Il and tilt the latch means 93 as the catch bar groove I2 reaches a position over the 25 heads of the sinkers 5. Due to the roller 22 passing into the groove 92 and the tilting of the latch member l2, the catch bar means I2 isfree to drop under gravity action as its groove Il reaches aposition over the heads of the sinkers 8. The illustrated mechanism now assumes the arrangement shown in Figure l0, the latch means 32 being tilted, and the catch bar means I2 being in its advanced, lower position and in engagement with the sinkers y5. The cam-like 35 member n is now at one side of the'roller 9|.

(A similar arrangement for the cam-like members il and the rollers 62 is shown in Figures 3 and 4.) The roller II, however. is also at a level somewhat lower than the top surface of the camlike member Il as shown by Figure l0.

'Ihe catch bar means I2 is now shifted rearwardly by the back catch bar motion (25 through 2l), during which shifting movement the latch member l2 is further tilted (see Figure l1).

With the relative arrangement as shown in Plgure il, the catch bar means I2 is in its rearward, lowered position, and the roller II is in its lowered position and in the path of travel of the cam-like member Il. The slur cock bar is now operated in a direction opposite to that of its last previous stroke or movement. Before any sinker l is operatedby a slur cam I, the leading end or cam face of the cam-like member Il engages the roller II and raises the catch bar means I2 to its elevated rearward position (see Figure l2). During the time the catch bar means I2 is being elevated by its roller 0I and the cam-like member Il, the spring 21 draws the latch member 02 into the position of Figure 12 for supporting the catch bar means I2.

There may be as many latch members 83, camlike members Il, and rollers I as may be desired. For example, if the catch bar means I2 is in sections as shown inA Figures 3 and 4, there 6 may be a corresponding number of cam-like members and followers therefor as also shown in Figures 3 and 4. Where the catch bar means I2 is of a construction as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, it would be preferable to provide a latch member 92 adjacent each end of each catch bar section, so that there will be a set of two latch members 93 for each catch bar section. In some cases, it may be desirable to provide one latch ,-5 member 93 for each catch bar section and ara catch bar section range it below the center of its section and between two adjacent knitting sections KS.

The cam-like control members and their followers may have such relative width as desired. For example, a control member may be relatively wider thanI its cam follower as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 4, where the control member 60 is widex` than its follower 62. Or the cam follower may be wider than its control member as shown in Figures 8 through 12 where the roller lI is wider than its control member 90. The proportions of the cam follower and its control member are preferably such that they will cooperate in the intended manner cation of the slur cock bar II regardless of whether the catch bar means I2 is in its forward or rearward position during sinker advancing operations.

It will also member 60 of Figures same shape, size and construction as members 60 of Figures 1 through 4.

Figures 13 through 20 In the catch bar mechanism of Figures 13 and 20, the catch bar means is illustrated as being be understood that the control 8 through 12 may have the the control composed of a plurality of separate catch bars or IIII, III and H2, each havingcatch bar sections independent movement and independent operating means. These catch bar sections III), III and |I2, under normal conditions, will be simultaneously operated, and each section willhave the functions of conventional catch bar means. Since the catch bar sections IIO, III entirely independent, each may be individually adjusted to suit the requirements of the respective sinkers and dividers, and the faulty operation of one catch bar section will affect only the corresponding knitting sections KS of the knitting machine. Should any catch bar section get out of adjustment, the difficulty may be corrected while the production of hosiery blanks continues on the knitting sections provided with the other catch bar sections. lar knitting section, by reason of some accident, become faulty in operation, its particular catch bar section can be swung to an inoperative outof-the-way position, and the usual knitting operations can proceed normally at other knitting sections of the same machine.

While Figure shows but three catch bar sections IIU, III, and |I2 and six knitting sections KS, the invention embodied in Figure 20 may be provided in a knitting machine having' more or less knitting sections and more or less catch bar sections.

for each set of two knitting sections as shown in Figure 20. As an illustration, if the knitting machine has twenty knitting sections, there may be ten catch bar sections, each corresponding to one-of the catch bar sections IIIl, III, and II2 shown in Figure 20. In a twenty lmitting-se'ction machine having ten catch bar sections, each may be controlled and operated by the means about to be described for each of the catch bar v Each of the catch bar sections I I0, III and II2 has an individual back or horizontal catch bar motion similar to the back catch bar motions shown in Figures 1 through 4. Each back catch bar motion in the Figures 13 and 20 constructions, as in the Figures 1 through 4 constructions, may comprise a set of two shifter arms 25,

f a set of two levers 26, a separate catch bar shaft 2 1 with a cam roller 29,'and two 28, a cam lever and I2 are- Should a particu-e Preferably the machine has during reciprosuitably shaped cams 30 and 3| mounted on the main cam shaft l.

Each of the catch bar sections (III), III and II2) in the Figures 13 through 20 construction is provided with a control device CD. As the several control devices CD are of similar construction, a description of the construction and operation of one control device CD will serve for all of them.

An individual control device CD includes a cam-like means I Il, which may be carried bythe slur cock bar |I, and a cam roller or follower I I6, which may be carried bythe corresponding catch bar section (|I0, III or II2).

Thel cam-like means II'5 comprises a divided angle bar or two parts ||1 and II8 having tongues IIS and |20, which provide an overlapping joint. The cam parts II1` and IIS are slidably mounted on a supporting bar I2I and are relatively adjustable on overall length of the cam-like means .I I5. Each of the two cam parts |-I1 and IIB has one or more longitudinal slots in its depending leg or flange. Set screws or bolts |22 extend through these slots for securing the cam parts ||1 and |I6 to the lbar |2I in the desired position of adjustment, l

l venience, the cam faces of cam part II1 are referred to as cam'faces LI25 and LI26, and the cam faces of the cam part I I8 are referred to as cam faces RI25 and RI26.

'I'he cam faces RI25 and L|25 may be sirnilar- I ly shaped, and due to the steppedconstruction are arranged closer together than the RI'26 and LI28 cam faces. The cam faces R|26 and L|25 are also formed on the side of the cam-like means I|6 nearer the adjacent catch bar section (III in Figure 13) for reason which appears more fully hereinafter.

The bar I2I may be secured to the slur cock bar I I in any suitable manner.' For example, the bar I 2| may be securely mounted on blocks |30 which are rigidly attached to the usual slur cock boxes I6 (as shown more clearly in Figure l13) As already explained, the slur cock boxes III are slidably mounted on a supporting bar 20 and secured to the slur cock bar II to travel therewith. The cam-like means II5, therefore, reciprocates with the slur cockbar II, and both will always have the same rate andextent of movement. This feature is highly desirable for providing the proper timed relation of operations for the sinkers 5 and dividers 6 by the slur cams 9 and the catch bar sections (IIB, III and |I2).

sections IIO, III and II2.

The roller I|6 is mounted on a stud which `is eccentricaily secured to a disc |35. This disc |35 is carried by a pin |36 which fits within a recess of the corresponding ycatch bar section (see section I I I in Figure 14) and which is adjustably secured in place bya set screw |31. By loosening the set screw |31 and turning the disc |35, the roller ||6 may beraised or lowered relatively to its catch bar section so as to have proper coactlon with the cam-like means II5.

The relation and adjustment of a roller II6, its cam-like means H5, and the corresponding back or horizontal catch bar motion are preferably such that they operate the associated catch bar section in the manner about to be described. Since all the catch bar sections function similarly, but independently, reference will be made to the bar I2I' to vary the only the operation of` one catch bar'section, namely III.

Assuming the slur cock bar II is traveling to the left (looking at Figure 20 for example) and the slur cams 9 are in the process of advancing the sinkers I, the cam-like means IIS provides a rest for the corresponding roller I'I6 (see Figure and thereby supports the associated catch barvsection III is an elevated position. During y which because of its overlapping joint provides, between its ends, continuous and uniform s'upport for the roller IIS. Y i

When the sinker advancing operation is coinpleted, the back catch bar motion advances the catch bar section II to advance the dividers 6. During this shifting movement of the catch bar section III, the roller III is moved toward the stroke and 'reverses its direction of movement,

the roller I Il cooperates with the cam faces LI!! and LIZE in the same manner as described with respect to Figures 15 through 19. The roller IIB will be shifted toward the front of the machine, will roll down -the cam face LIN, will be shifted toward the rear of the machine, and will roll up the cam face LI". In other words, the catch bar section III is given the same operation in both directions of travel of the reciproeating slur cock bar II.

The control device CD may -be used lto advantage on a straight knitting machine having a single, unitary catch bar for all the'knitting sections in the-machine. Buch a machine may be provided with one or more of the control devices-CD to provide the vertical motion of the catch bar and replace the usual front catch bar motion.

Each of the catch bar sections I'Il, III, and

II! in its lowered position, may rest on a suitable support so that the divider heads or butts front edge of the cam part II8 (see Figures 15 thereof so as to continue to support the catch bar section in the elevated position.

In the subsequent movement of the cam part i and 16), butstili remains on the top, flat side ,I la' as the slur cock bar is completing-ns ieftward stroke, the-roller IIS rolls down the cam face RI25 (see Figures 16 and 17) and the catch bar section I I I is lowered by gravity action so that its sinker groove I3 (see Figure 14) engages the upstanding butts of the sinkers. 'Ihe relation of the sinkers,. the dividers and the catchvpar section III at this time is illustrated by the; corresponding parts in Figure 10. Y

yWhile the catch bar section I II is in this lowered position, it is shifted rearwardly by its back catch bar motion to retract both the sinkersand the dividers. As the catch bar section II I is shifted rearwardly, its roller lil moves therewith and from the position, illustrated in Figure 17 to that illustrated in Figure 18.

At about this time,'the slur cock bar II reverses'its direction of movement and travels to the right' (looking at Figure 20 for example). The roller IIB is now in the path of the cam face RIN. During subsequent travel of the slur cock -bar II and the cam-like means IIS, and before the slur cams 9 engage any of the sinkers, the roller IIB rolls up the cam face RIZB to elevate the catch bar section III and thereby free the The relative arrangement of the cam faces tween the cam parts I'Il and II8 avoids Jumping of. the roller IIB during the time it is being supported.

As the slur cock bar Il completes its rightward sinkers. kThe relationship of the sinkers, thedividers and 'the catch bar section I I I at this timel `is illustrated by the corresponding parts in Fig- I8 are not subjected to the weight of their catch bar section. This support may be a block I as shown in Figure 21. This block III may be secured to a stationary machine part Ill conveniently located, for example, adjacent the center of the corresponding catch bar section, that is, between the two adjacent knitting sections with which the catch bar section is associated. Each block Ill provides a support on which its catch bar section slides while the latter is shifting the sinkers from their advanced position to their rearward position. It will also be understood that each block I prevents the divider butts Ii from engaging the top side of the groove I3 in the corresponding catch bar section (see Figure 21) 'I'he lowered forward position of the catch bar section III is illustrated in solid lines in Figure 21, and its rearward elevated position is illustrated in dotted lines of the same figure. b

Supports similar to the blocks I" may be provided, if desired. for any of the catch bars or catch bar sections of the accompanying drawings.

It will `b euriderstood that the foreginl is illustrative and 'that the presentl invention includes all embodiments and modifications coming within the scope of the appended claims. v I claim:

1. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, means for 'advancing said sinkers, and means adapted to reieasably engagersaid sinkers for withdrawing the same from the advanced position thereof, the improvement lcomprising means interposed betweenv said sinkeradvancing means and said sinker withdrawing Imeans for maintaining said withdrawing means in sinker releasing Aposition for at least the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said-sinker advancing means.

2. -In a straight knitting machine having reciprocable sinkers, means for advancing the sinkers in yarn sinking operations, and means for withdrawing said sinkers, said withdrawing means being movable to effect withdrawal of advanced sinkers and being further movable into a position to release said sinkers for subsequent operation by said sinker advancing means, the improvement comprising cooperative means associated with said sinker advancing means and said sinker withdrawing meansrespectively for maintaining said withdrawing means in sinker releasing position for at least the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said sinker advancing means.

3. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, a reciprocable slur cock bar adapted to advance said sinkers in yarn sinking operations, and movable catch bar means to releasably engage said sinkers and withdraw the same from the advanced position thereof, the improvement comprising means interposed between said slur cock bar and said catch bar means for maintaining said catch bar means in sinker releasing position for at least the duration of the-operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said slur cock bar.

4. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, a reciprocable slur cock bar adapted in each stroke thereof to advance said sinkers in lyarn sinking operations, and movable catch bar means to releasably engage said sinkers and withdraw the same from the advanced position thereof, the improvement comprising a member associated with said slur cock bar and movable therewith, and a member associated with said catch bar means for controlling the same, one of said members having a cam-like construction and belng adapted during reciprocation of saidslur cock bar to coact with the other member, said members in each stroke of said slur cock bar being effective to shift said catch bar means into position to release said sinkers from said catch bar means, to maintain said catch bar'means in sinker releasing position during the advance of said sinkers and to release said catch bar means from said sinker releasing position after the sinkers reach the advanced position thereof.

5. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, a reciprocable slur cock bar adapted to ad- .vance said sinkers in yarn sinking operations, and

movable catch bar means to releasably engage said sinkers and withdraw the same from the advanced position thereof, 'the improvement comprising a member associated with said slur cock bar and movable therewith, and a member associated with said catch bar means for movement therewith, said members being adapted to coact for maintaining said catch bar means in sinker releasing position for at least the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are'being advanced by said slur cock bar.

. 6. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, means for advancing the sinkers in yarn sinking operations, means adapted to be lowered into engagement with the sinkers and effective in the lowered position to withdraw said sinkers from the advanced position thereof, said withdrawing means being adapted to be raised from ers adapted to -be advanced for sinking yarn befrom the advanced position thereof. said Vwithdrawing means being adapted to be raised :from said lowered position to release said sinkers for advancing movement by said advancing means, the improvement comprising a cam-like member, and a member adapted for engagement therewith, one of said members being mounted for movement with said sinker withdrawing means and the other member having predetermined move.- ment, said members being adapted'to cooperate and provide support ior said sinker withdrawing means in raised sinker releasing position for at least the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said sinker advancing means.

8. In a straight knitting machine having sinktween knitting needles, and movable means engageablel with said sinkers for withdrawing the same from the advanced position thereof, the improvement comprising an element longitudinally said lowered position to release said sinkers for advancing movement by said advancing means,`

the improvement comprising members associated and movable with said sinker advancing means and said sinker withdrawing means respectively to control said sinker withdrawing means, said members having such relative arrangement that. at least for the duration of the operation in which the sinkers are being actuated by said sinker advancing means, said member associated with said reciprocable along a path normal to the movement of said sinker withdrawing means, a camlike member, and a member for operative engagement with said cam-like member, one of said members being associated and movable with said sinker withdrawing means and the other of said members being adapted to travel with said reciprocable element, said members cooperating during movement of said reciprocable element to maintain disengagement between said sinker withdrawing means and said sinkers for at least the Vduration of the operation'in which said sink ers are being advanced by said sinker advancing means.

9. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, sinker advancing means, sinkerV withdrawing means, a cam shaft, means operated from said cam shaft to provide for lowering of said withdrawing means to eiiect driving engagement thereof with said sinkers, and for raising of said withdrawing means to release said sinkers for operation by said sinker advancing means, the improvement comprising control members carried by said sinker advancing means and said .e

sinker withdrawing means respectively, said control members being adapted to cooperate for maintaining said sinker withdrawing means-in raised sinker releasing position for at least the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are beng advanced by said sinker advancing means.

10. In a straight knitting machine having slnkers, a reciprocablesiur cock bar adapted during partof each stroke to advance said sinkers in yarn rsinking operations, and movable catch bar means to releasably engage said sinkers and withdraw the same from the advanced poistion thereof, the improvement comprising a roller mounted on said catch bar means, and cam-like means supported to travel with said slur cock bar and adapted to engage said roller to thereby support said catch bar means in a raised sinker releasing.

position during that part of each stroke of the slur cock bar in which the slur cock bar is effective to advance said sinkers.

`11. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, sinker advancing means. sinker withdrawing means, a cam sha'ftmeans operated from said cam shaft to provide for lowering of said withdrawing means to effect driving engagement with said sinkers, and for raising of said withdrawing means to release said sinkers for operation by said, sinker advancing means, the improvement comprising control members carried by said sinker advancing means and said sinker withdrawing means respectively, said control members being adapted to cooperate for positioning said sinker withdrawing means in raised sinker releasing position in advance of each operation ofthe sinkers by said sinker advancing means.

12. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, reciprocable sinker advancing means, sinker withdrawing means, a cam shaft, meansoperated from said cam shaft to provide for lowering of said withdrawing means to effect driving engagement with saidv sinkers, and for raising of said withdrawing means to release said sinkers for operation by said sinker advancing means, the improvement comprising control members carried by said sinker advancing means and said sinker withdrawing means respectively, said control members being adapted to cooperate for positioning said sinker withdrawing means in raised sinker releasing position in advance of each operation of the sinkers by said sinker advancing means, for maintaining said sinker withdrawing means in sinker releasing position for the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said sinker advancing f withdrawing means in sinker releasing position.

14. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, a slur cock bar longitudinally reciprocable for advancing the sinkers, and a catch bar having horizontal motion for withdrawing the advanced sinkers and also vertical movement for engaging and releasing the sinkers, the improvement which comprises two members associated and movable with said slur cock bar and said catch bar respectively, said members being so relatively arranged as to be adapted to have engagement with each other for maintaining the catch bar in its elevated position at least for the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said sinker advancing means.

15. In a straight knitting machine, the eombi- 1" nation comprising a catch bar adapted to have reciprocating movement in both vertical and lateral directions, a. reciprocable slur cock bar, a'

cam-like member, and a member for cooperating with said cam-like member, one of said members being supported by said slur cock bar and reciprocable therewith, and the other of said members being supported by and movable with said catch bar, said members in each stroke of said slur cock bar being adapted` to have interengagement for raising said catch bar and maintaining the catch bar in the elevated position for a predetermined part of the strok'e and then releasing said catch bar for lowering movement.

16. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising a catch bar adapted to have reciprocating movement in both vertical and la'teral directions, a reciprocable slur cock bar, a member supported by said slur cock bar and re- Cil ciprocable therewith, and an element supported by and movable with said catch bar, said member in each stroke of said slur cock bar being adapted to pass under said element while said catch bar is in an elevated position and thereby maintain said catch bar in the elevated position until said member has passed beyond said lelement.

17. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising catch bar means, a cam shaft, means operated by said cam shaft for imparting horizontal movement to said catch bar means, and means adjacent vsaid catch bar means and including a cam-like element and an element for engaging said cam-like element, one of said elements being associated with said catch bar means to move therewith, the other of said elements having movement relative to said catch bar element for actuating the same to raise and lower said catch bar means.

18. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising vertically movable catch bar means, a reciprocable slur cock bar, a cam roller supported by saidcatch bar means, and a camlike element supported by and movable with said slur-cock bar, said cam-like element being adapted to cooperate with said roller for raising and lowering said catch bar means in each stroke of said slur'cock bar.

19. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, sinker advancing means, catch bar means to withdraw advanced sinkers and being adapted to be raised and lowered for releasing and engaging said sinkers, an oscillatable catch bar shaft, means interposed between said catch bar shaft and said catch bar means to raise and lower said catch bar means during oscillation of said shaft, and cooperating means associated with said sinker advancing means and said catch Ibar shaft respectively to control said shaft for maintaining said catch bar means in raised sinker releasing position at least for the duration of the operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said slur cock bar.

20. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, the combination comprising a reciprocable slur cock bar adapted during each stroke thereof to advance said sinkers, catch bar means for withdrawing said sinkers, a cam shaft, a catch bar shaft, a plurality of arms rigidly secured to said catch bar shaft, one of said arms being actuated by said cam shaft for oscillating said catch bar shaft, operating means interposed be- .tween another one of said arms and said catch bar means to raise and lower the latter for releasing and engaging said sinkers as said catch bar shaft is oscillated, and control means interposed between a third one of said arms and said slur cock bar to control said catch bar shaft for maintaining said catch bar means in raised sinker releasing position at least for the duration of thev operation in which said sinkers are being advanced by said slur cock bar in each stroke thereof.

21. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, the combination comprising sinker advancing means, catch bar means to withdraw advanced sinkers and being adapted to be raised and lowered for releasing and engaging said sinkers, an oscillatablecatch bar shaft, means interposed between said catch bar shaft and said catch bar means to raise and lower said catch bar means during oscillation of said shaft, and cooperating means associated with said sinker advancing means and said catch bar shaft remeans, and cam means carried by said slur cock said catch bar shaft and adapted to .coact with' said cam-like member.

22. In a straight knitting machine having sinkers, the combination comprising a reciprocable slur cock bar adapted during each stroke thereof to advance said sinkers, catch bar means for withdrawing said sinkers, a cam shaft, a catch bar shaft, a plurality of arms rigidly secured to said catch bar shaft, one of said arms being actuated by said cam shaft for oscillating said catch bar shaft, operating means interposed between another one of said arms and said catch bar means to raise and lower the latter for releasing and engaging said sinkers as said catch l bar shaft is oscillated, a cam-like member' mounted to travel with said slur cock bar, and a follower member carried by a third one of said arms, said members during each stroke of said slur cock bar being adapted tov control said catch bar shaft for maintaining said catchbar means in raised sinker releasing position at least for the duration of the4 operation in ywhich said sinkers are being advanced by said slur cock bar.

23. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising a. catch bar, means for raising, lowering, advancing and withdrawing said catchv bar, and latch means operative with the catch bar in the withdrawn position to maintain the same in the raised position thereof and to release said catch bar for downward movement as ,the catch bar approaches its advanced position.

24. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising a catch bar, means for raising, lowering, advancing and withdrawing said catch bar, pivotally mounted latch means arranged for engagement with said catch barfand means for positioning said latch means to support said catch bar as said catch bar is withdrawn and raised to its elevated, rearward position, said catch bar as it advances having movement relative to said latch means to render the latch means inoperative.

25. In a straight knitting machine having a slur cock bar longitudinally reciprocable for adsupported from the catch bar having said vertivancing the knitting machine sinkers, and a catch bar having horizontal motion for withdrawing the advanced sinkers and also vertical movement for engaging and releasing the sinkers, the improvement which comprises means for horizontally advancing and withdrawing said catch bar, movable means for maintaining said catch bar in elevated position and adapted to release the catch bar for downward movement in the advanced position thereof, cam-like means associated and movable with said slur cock bar, means associated and movable with said catch bar and adapted to engage said cam-like means and eect raising movement of said catch bar during movement of said slur cock bar, and means for moving said movable means into position for maintaining said catch bar in the elevated position thereof when the catch bar is in l its Arearward and elevated position.

26. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising vertically movable catch bar means, a reciprocable slur cock bar, a cam roller supported by and movable with said catch bar catch bar means.

bar and positioned for engagement with said roller, said cam means presenting a surface extending longitudinally of the slur cock bar and having cam faces adjacent opposite ends thereof, said roller during each stroke of said slur cock bar being 4adapted to ride up one of. said cam facesto elevate said catch bar means, to ride on said surface for maintaining the catch bar means in the elevated position for a predetermined interval and to ride down the other of said cam faces for lowering said catch bar means.

27. Apparatus as described in claim 26, wherein the cam means comprises atleast two parts relatively adjustable to vary the spacing between the cam faces adjacent the' opposite ends ther 28. Apparatus as defined in claim 26, wherein the roller is supported from the catch bar means by an eccentric stud, and the eccentric stud is adjustably secured to the catch bar means te.

provideadjustment of the roller relative to said,-

29. The improvement in straight knitting machines which improvement comprises at least two catch bars adapted to have independent horizontal sinker operating movement, means providing each of said catchv bars with independent horizontal movement, and means for providing one of said catch bars with vertical movement. lthe other of said catch bars normally being so cal movement as to partake of the latter.

30. The improvement in straight knitting machines which improvement comprises at least three catch bars, means providing each of said three catch -bars with independent horizontal movement, and means for providing two of said catch bars with vertical movement, the other of said three catch bars normally being so supported from at least one of said two catch bars as to partake of the vertical movement thereof while being free forv independent horizontal movement.

3l. The improvement in a straight knitting machine having cam means and' a plurality of knitting sections, each section including a series of needles, a series -of sinkers, and a reciprocating yarn carrier, which improvement comprises catch bar means in at least three sections, each. catch bar. section being adapted to have both horizontal and vertical' motion for withdrawing at least one of said series of ,sinkers relative to the corresponding needles after each yarn sinking operation, the intermediate one ofv said catch bar sections being normally supported two of said three catch bar sections whereby each catch bar section has independent horizontal movement in withdrawing sinkers and said intermediate catch bar section is adapted to be raised by and lowered with said other two catch bar sections during the vertical movement thereof, a plurality of means separately controlled by said cam means for individuallyoperating each of said catch bar sections to provide the horizontal motion thereof, and means for individually operating each of said other two catch bar vsections to provide the vertical motion thereof.

` l32. In a straight knitting machinehaving a lmain cam shaft and a plurality of knitting sections, each section having a series of sinkers andsinker advancing means, the improvement which comprises a plurality of independently operable catch bar means, each adapted to withdraw the sinkers of at least one knitting section, and separate operating means between each of said catch bar means and said main cam shaft.

33. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising a plurality of knitting sections, each section having a series of sinkers, a plurality of independently operable catch bars, each bar being adapted to operate the sinkers of one or more knitting sections, a cam shaft, and separate driving means interposed between said cam shaft and each of said catch bars, each of said driving means including an oscillatable catch bar shaft.

34. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising a plurality of knitting sections, each section having a series of sinkers, a

plurality ofindependently operable catch bars, each bar being adapted to operate the sinkers of one or more knitting sections, a cam shaft, separate driving means interposed between said cam shaft and each of said catch bars to provide independent horizontal motion for each of said catch bars, each of said driving means including an oscillatable catch bar shaft, means for advancing said sinkers Ain yarn sinking operations, and a separate control means for each of said catch bars to provide the same with vertical movement for releasing and engaging the corresponding sinkers, each of said separate control means being interposed between the corresponding catch bar and said sinker advancin means.

35. In a straight knitting machine having reciprocable sinkers, the combination comprising movable sinker advancing means, movable sinker withdrawing means, means for horizontally operating said sinker withdrawing means between forward and rearward positions, and means adapted to provide for `raising and lowering said sinker withdrawing means to release and engage said sinkers, said raising and lowering means being interposed between said sinker advancing means and said sinker withdrawing means,4 said operating means and said raising and lowering means cooperating to move said sinker withdrawing means from rearward to forward positions aftersaid sinkers are advanced and while said sinker withdrawing means is in raised position, then to lower said sinker withdrawing means into engagement with said suikers, then to move said sinker withdrawing means to its rearward position while lowered to effect withdrawal of said sinkers, then to raise said sinker withdrawing means to release said sinkers for operation by said advancing means, andthenl to maintain said sinker withdrawing means in its raised rearward sinker releasing position during the operation in which the sinkers are being moved to their advanced position.

36. In a straight knitting machine having a series of sinkers. the combination comprising reciprocable means adapted in each stroke thereof to advance said sinkers in succession, means mov- 'able from forward to rearward position for withdrawing said sinkers en masse from the advanced position thereof and movable vertically to release and engage said sinkers, operating means for horizontally moving said sinker withdrawing means between forward and rearward positions,

a cam-like member mounted for movement with said sinker advancing means and havinga substantially fiat face and two similar sets o'f stepped cam faces, said cam face sets being arranged at opposite ends of said at face and being adapted to alternate as the leading cam face set during adapted to so move said sinker withdrawing means that in one direction of travel of the sinker advancing means said roller engages one cam -face of each of said sets, and a different cam face in each set during travel of said sinker advancing means in the reverse direction.

37. A machine as in claim 36 wherein the at face of the cam-like member supports said roller for maintaining said sinker withdrawing means in raised sinker releasing position during operationof said sinkers by said sinker advancing means, and said sinker withdrawing means are shifted to the forward position thereof while said roller is supported on said flat face and to the rearward position thereof after said cam-like member has released said roller and thereby provided for lowering of said sinker withdrawing means into engagement with the sinkers in the advanced position thereof.

38. A machine as in claim 36 wherein the cam- -like member is formed of relatively adjustable parts to vary the spacing between said sets of cam faces and an overlapping joint is provided between said parte.

39. A safety device for a straight knitting machine having a plurality of sinkers, a reciprocable, sinker advancing means, a catch bar movable between an elevated sinker releasing position and a lowered sinker engaging position and means for shifting said catch bar while in engagement with said sinkers to withdraw the same from their advanced position, said safety device comprising movable means for controlling the lowering movement of said catch bar, and an element adapted to be mounted for reciprocation with the sinker advancing means, said element during part of each stroke thereof being in a position to limit movement of said controlling meansv to thereby prevent lowering of the catch bar into sinker engaging position.

40. In a straight knitting machine, the combination comprising a plurality of sinkers, a reciprocable slur cock bar for advancing said sinkers, a catch bar movable between an elevated sinker releasing position and a lowered sinker engaging position, an oscillatable catch bar shaft, means operatively connecting said shaft and said catch bar to elevate and lower said catch bar during oscillation of said shaft, means for shifting said catch bar while in engagement with said sinkers to withdraw the same from their advanced positicn, movable means operatively connected to said shaft for controlling the movement thereof which provides for lowering said catch bar, and a bar-like element secured to said sl'ur cock bar for reciprocation therewith, said element during part 'of each stroke thereof being in a position to limit movement of said controlling means to thereby prevent lowering of said catch bar into sinker engaging position.

41. In a multi-section straight knitting machine having a main cam shaft, a plurality of independent series of sinkers, and sinker advancing means, the improvement which comprises a plurality of independently operable catch bar means, each adapted to engage and withdraw at least one series of sinkers from the advanced portion thereof, separate operating means between each of said catch bar means and said main cam shaft, each of said operating means being adapted to vbars ina horizontal direction,

2,266,135 impart horizontal advancing and withdrawing movement to thecorresponding catch bar means, and means interposed between said sinker advancing means and each of said catch bar means to provide for raising and lowering the same during movement of said sinker advancing means.

42. In a multi-section straight knitting ma chine having a cam shaft, a plurality of .independent series of sinkers, and means-for advancing the sinkers of each series in succession,.the combination comprising a plurality of disconnected catch bars, each of saidcatch b ars being independently movable both vertically and horizontally, being independently operated, and being adapted to operate at least one and not more than two series of said sinkers; means for independently operating each of said catch bars in a horizontal direction, each of said catch bar operating means including a separate rock shaft, a

lever depending from saidrock shaft and actuated by said cam shaft to operate said rock shaft, a set of levers arranged in spaced relation and secured to said rock shaft for operatlon'thereby; and a shifter arm operatively connecting each of said last-named levers and the corresponding catch bar for imparting horizontal motion to the latter independent vof the horizontal movement of the other catch bars; each of said catch bars to provide each catch bar with vertical movement independent of the vertical movement of theother catch bars. I 'f 43. In a multi-section straight knittingI machine having a cam shaft, a plurality of indef pendent series of sinkers. and a slur cam bar for advancing the sinkers of each series ,in succession; the combination comprising a plurality of disconnected catch bars, eachv of said catch bars being independently movable both vertically and horizontally, being4 independently` operated,

Y v and being adapted-to operate at least one and moreth'ari two series of said sinkers; means each of said catch each of said catch including a separate rock from said rock shaft and for independently operating bar operating -means shaft, a lever `depending actuated by said-cam shaft to operate said rock shaft, aset of levers arranged in spaced relation and secured to ,said rock shaft for operation and :separate means for thereby, and a shifter arm operatively connecting each' of said last-named levers and the corresponding catch bar for imparting horizontal movement' to the vlatter independent of the horizontal movement of the other catch bars; and separate means interposed between each of'said catch bars and the slur cam Vbar to provide each catch bar with vertical movement independent of the vertical movement ofthe other catch bars.

4`4. .The improvement in straight lknitting ma` chines having sinkers and dividers' to be ad` vanced and withdrawn during knitting operations, which improvement comprises at least two catch bars arranged substantially in end to end relation and adapted to haveyindependent hori zontal movement whereby each catch bar is adapted to advance a series of dividers and then withdraw said series of dividers and of sinkers, means for providing each of said catch bars with said independent horizontal movement, j

and means forproviding one of said catch bars with alternate raising and lowering movements to disengage corresponding withdrawn sinkers -and toengage said last-named sinkers 1in the advanced position thereof, said last-named catch lbar providing a rest or support for the other y catch bar, whereby said other catch bar is raised by said supporting catch bar, rests on said supporting bar by gravity action to partake of its lowering movements, and is free to move indei pendently of said supporting catchbarin advancing the correspondingdividers and in withdrawing the correspondingv dividers-and sinkers.

45. I n a straight knitting machine having'yarn sinking devices, the combination; comprising a catch bar for operating saidfyarn sinking devices.

means to provide said `catch bar with-vertical motion to secure its release from and vengagement with ,said yarn sinking devices, and means to provide said catch bar with horizontarmotion y for operating said yarn sinking devices, both of said motion providing means being 'arranged *l rearwardly of said catch bar.

46. An improvement as recited in claim 35' wherein. the movable sinker advancing means is a longitudinally reciprocable slur cam bar.

FRANK G. WEISBECKER.

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