Method and apparatus for tufting even level cut pile and loop pile in

Abstract

A tufting machine has loop seizing hooks facing opposite to the direction of fabric feed and gate members mounted for closing the bill of the hooks to prevent the hook from seizing selective loops and for themselves seizing those loops. In one embodiment the gate members are pivotably mounted on the hooks. In another embodiment the gate members are slidable mounted adjacent to and rock with the hooks. Loops precluded from seizure by the hooks are shed by the gate as the hooks rock away from the loop seizing position and form uncut loop pile. Loops that are allowed to be seized by the hooks enter onto the blade portion of the hooks and are cut by a knife cooperating with each hook blade to form cut pile. The gate members are disclosed as moved by pnuematic cylinders operable by electrically controlled air valves. The air valves selectively respond to timed signals received from a pattern control.