Abstract: The passage of material through a textile spinning or twisting machine is regulated through operation of a control element associated with the movement of said material. Light reflected from the moving material is converted into a variable electrical signal which is then modulated and used to operate a light-emitter. The modulated output of the light-emitter is sensed by a receiver located remote therefrom, but in direct-line-of sight, into an electrical command signal for operating the control element.

Abstract: A drawing frame for a spinning machine is provided with a blocking mechanism movable into a position between the upper and the lower feed rollers in the event of yarn breakage, to lift the roving from contact with the driven roller. A roving holder facilitating the holding of the tuft end of the roving between the drawing and outlet rollers is provided. This latter apparatus is coupled to the means for actuating the blocking mechanism for synchronous operation and is provided downstream of the inlet roller. It comprises a table extending beneath the roving and a rotatable shaped arm above the roving which arm is movable by the switching mechanism to simultaneously hold the front end of the roving.