in The Origin of Stars and Planetary Systems

An electrically actuated cam follower retracting mechanism is disclosed for facilitating cam selection in a zigzag sewing machine. By means of a rotary solenoid energized in response to the initial movement of a manual cam selector member, the cam followers are automatically retracted from tracking relation with the pattern cams so as not to interfere with cam selection. Provision is disclosed for releasing the needle bar from its drive and for retracting special cam followers. The retracting mechanism is latched into effective position and the solenoid is deenergized when retraction is complete. The latch is released when operation of the sewing machine is resumed after the new selection has been made.