Abstract: The actuating lever of this invention is intended for use with an air valve having a normally extending valve stem. The actuating lever has utility in many fields. One illustrated embodiment is described in association with an air valve in the waste removal system of a sewing machine, wherein it is desired that the air valve be activated before the sewing machine is activated by depression of a treadle. It is normally desired to initiate the flow of compressed air to create a suction for the removal of waste generated by operation of the sewing machine before the sewing machine is started. The configuration of the actuating lever provides a mechanical advantage that, in the illustrated embodiment, enables the valve stem of the air valve to be depressed with less pressure on the treadle than was required in the prior art, and with less pressure than is required to start the motor of the sewing machine.

Abstract: A dual suction unit and method of operation uses a main tube with a Venturi assembly having a primary suction inlet positioned in the inlet of the main tube and a branch tube joined at its outlet to the mid-portion of the main tube and having a secondary suction inlet at its opposite end. Compressed air flowing through the Venturi assembly induces a primary suction at its suction inlet and a significantly stronger secondary suction at the inlet of the branch tube than known in the prior art. Waste or other matter may be conveyed from separate sources to the respective primary and secondary suction inlets.

Abstract: Waste fabric and lint generated by the cutter knives of a sewing machine are removed as generated by a collection box, the top edges of which are shaped to conform to the contour of a sewing machine frame in a location immediately beneath the cutter knives. The collection box is connected to a source of suction in a waste removal system.