Abstract: An electrical energy generator relying upon piezoelectricity includes electrical generating elements comprising electroded bodies of an electrostrictive material, e.g., polyurethane, having inherent but weak piezoelectric characteristics. A d.c. bias is applied between the electrodes for field-inducing a larger piezoelectric characteristic whereby, upon applying mechanical energy to the element, in known manner, for alternately straining and destraining the body, electrical charge is generated on the electrodes with a high mechanical energy to electrical energy conversion efficiency.

Abstract: A latchguard member is mounted on a rib needle bar assembly of a straight bar knitting machine of the Cotton's Patent type. The rib needles have latches which are pivotable between an open and closed attitude and the latchguard member is actuated to lie over the tips of the latches in the open attitude and to withdraw below the latches to permit them to close as the old loops are landed on the latches. In a preferred embodiment the actuating means for the latchguard member are arranged to superimpose a differential latchguard member and rib needle bar movement over their joint movement imparted by a needle bar actuating means.