Leader
/ Oliver Patents.
The
two patents featured here both incorporate a needle-feed system
to advance the fabric being sewn. However, only the later Oliver
patent includes a stitch length adjustment feature, actuated by
means of a variable-height needle guide hole.
The
first illustration shows A.W.Leader's May 1887 design. This UK
patent became the basis for the miniature pressed metal-constructed
"Pixie" machine.
A centrally located crank handle turns a rigid connecting rod
to power both top and bottom drive shafts. This simple engineering
solution, at a stroke, dispensed with the need for any gearing,
chains or bands. The patent also envisaged a needle of extraordinary
length and complexity. Production considerations obviously played
a part in the substitution of this for a more standard needle,
held within a suitable carrier.
|
Alfred
William Leader patent 19th May 1887. |
William
Samuel Oliver patent 1st June 1887. |
|