Device and method for holding the looper thread of a sewing machine

摘要

The device provides a thread hook-in means (16) with at least one thread hook-in part (20) for hooking in a thread (T2) with predetermined tension, which hook-in part (15) is arranged in the vicinity of a path of movement (L) of a needle (12), and for retracting the thread hook-in part (15) into a predetermined first retracted position, in order to draw the thread (T2) to the first retracted position, a cutting and holding means (21) for cutting off the thread (T2) drawn to the first retracted position by the thread hook-in means (16) as a result of the cooperation of one surface (17) of the thread hook-in part (15) and of a cutting edge (18) mounted in the vicinity of the one surface, and for holding the vicinity of the cut-off region of the thread (T2) as a result of the cooperation of the other surface of the thread hook-in part (15) and of a holding part (20) pressing resiliently against the other surface; and a means for retracting into a second retracted position spaced from the first retracted position, immediately after the start of the sewing operation, in order to cancel the holding state of the thread (T2) held by the cutting and holding means (21). As a result, the end of a looper thread (T2) projecting beyond the initial region of a seam is made as short as possible, so that the elimination of the thread end after the sewing operation becomes unnecessary. <IMAGE>