Abstract: A measuring device for measuring the distance of feed of cloth in a sewing machine, comprising a wheel driven by the cloth without slippage and located at the presser foot. A plurality of slits on the wheel are arranged to cooperate with two slits in the bracket of the wheel, and thereby form two light gates producing two output signals in the form of a two bit binary code. This light is detected by photo transistors or photo diodes positioned to receive light through the slits from light emitting diodes or lamps. The output signals from the unit are applied to a data unit connected to compute a positive or negative feed of the cloth. The invention is especially useful when a buttonhole is to be sewn totally automatically.

Abstract: A frame of a needle bar mechanism is mounted in a sewing machine arm and supports the swingable needle bar holder to enable zigzag motion of the needle. A stepping motor is mounted in the frame and connected by a link from the shaft of the motor to the needle bar holder. The motor is controlled by stitch codes supplied by 8 amplifier circuits and automatic control devices. The link is formed so that the driving arrangement can be calibrated and an elastic engagement is provided between the motor shaft and the needle bar holder. The transfer distance through only one link is short so the friction loss is small. This, in combination with a small holding torque of the needle bar, restricts the dimension of the stepping motor.

Abstract: A sewing machine has a pattern selection device and a seam memory for supplying stitch data for a needle positioning mechanism and a feeder mechanism. The pattern selection means includes a control switch adapted to be set in accordance with the type of cloth to be sewn. On basis of information input via the control switch and preprogramming of the memory, that seam data is chosen which is most suitable to the selected type of cloth and a selected sewing operation.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine has a pressure discharge opening in the cylinder in order to enable use of the engine as a pneumatic power source as well as a mechanical power source. A valve is provided for the opening. The electric ignition system is arranged to enable ignition in the engine at a time suitable for mechanical power output, and, alternatively, at a time at which the pressure in the cylinder is substantially higher, for use as a pressure source.

Abstract: A microwave heating apparatus for heating disc-shaped loads of variable water content wherein the energy is introduced by way of a sonde antenna connected to a coaxial cable, the disc-shaped load is positioned at the axial center of the chamber, and the apparatus is dimensioned to produce TO011 wave patterns, TM010 wave patterns, or a combination thereof, depending upon the dielectric constant of the load. The positioning means for the load may be connected to an external balance for continuously weighing the load.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the treatment of protein containing foodstuffs wherein the foodstuffs are pumped in a microwave transparent tube through an applicator for exposure to microwave TM.sub.021 energy. The foodstuffs may be in paste form. If the foodstuffs are eggs, the yolks and egg whites are pumped through concentric tubes before combination thereof in the applicator.

Abstract: A sewing machine has an electronic control system for providing selected fancy patterns, the system including a replaceable memory store unit which plugs into a recess formed in the outer front surface of the machine.

Abstract: In a zig-zig sewing machine an automatic adjustment is provided for obtaining the correct values for stitch-length and upper thread tension in sewing fancy seams or button holes by moving a setting knob for such seams to the required symbol. The adjustment is made independently of the existing setting established for stitch-length and thread tension by the use of a pattern selector which in addition to selecting a required pattern activates controls for cloth feed and over-thread tension by a cam and linkage system which transmits movement from the pattern selector directly to an adjustable cullis and thread brake.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improvement in assembling a sewing machine in which the machine has an open rear portion through which several units and devices in pre-assembled condition are mounted in the machine body and adjusted into proper positions during assembly.