Treadle: Difference between revisions
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On a railway, a treadle or treatle is a device that detects the passing of a train, a bit like a [[track circuit]] and might be used to put a [[Railway signal|signal]] to 'stop'. Treadles are also used to start the sequence of automatic level crossings. |
On a railway, a treadle or treatle is a device that detects the passing of a train, a bit like a [[track circuit]] and might be used to put a [[Railway signal|signal]] to 'stop'. Treadles are also used to start the sequence of automatic level crossings. |
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[[Image:Rail treadle.jpg|thumb|right|A rail treadle]] |
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Revision as of 01:47, 28 November 2012
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A treadle [from OE tredan = to tread] is a part of a machine which is operated by the foot to produce reciprocating or rotary motion in a machine such as a weaving loom (reciprocating) or grinder (rotary). Treadles can also be used to power water pumps (as in the treadle pump), or to turn wood lathes (as in the pole lathe). In the past, treadles have been used to power a range of machines including looms, wood saws, cylinder phonographs and metal lathes.
Railways
![[icon]](/enwiki/wiki/File:Wiki_letter_w_cropped.svg){kind=small} | This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (July 2012) |
On a railway, a treadle or treatle is a device that detects the passing of a train, a bit like a track circuit and might be used to put a signal to 'stop'. Treadles are also used to start the sequence of automatic level crossings.
Sewing machines
Many of the early sewing machines were powered by a treadle mechanism. The treadle was operated by pressing down on it with a foot, or both feet, to cause a rocking movement. This movement spins a large wheel on the treadle frame, connected by a thin leather belt to a smaller driving wheel on the sewing machine.
See also
- Bicycle pedal
- Treadle bicycle
- Treadle pump
- Treadle (railway)
- Bradford Industrial Museum#Weaving gallery
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