For needle selection in a circular knitting machine, a device is disclosed which comprises a plurality of superimposed selecting levers (4), individually pivoted to a common structure (3) and selectively movable between a position where they do not interfere with the pattern jack butts (8) and a position where they interfere therewith, to urge them toward the needle cylinder (2). The selective movement is accomplished by means of electromagnets (16), one for each selecting lever (4), which are energized in accordance with the machine knitting program and move intermediate, preferably rod-like, drive elements (17) the axial displacement whereof results in a pivotal movement of the respective selecting levers (4) between the cited positions. The engagement of the intermediate elements (17) with the selecting levers (4) is accomplished through geometrical soupling. A minimal force is sufficient for the actuation, so that the size of the electromagnets (16) can be minimized, while a prompt response is ensured.
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