Abstract: A machine for renting articles, e.g. video cassettes, which stores individual articles in containers (26) from which they may be rented by the user and wherein an opto-electronic emitter and sensor cobination (55) is provided to sense whether an article is in a container when the latter is in its closed state, a further opto-electronic emitter and sensor combination (56) may be provided to sense whether or not a container is in its closed state, a microprocessor (61) is arranged to permit the container to remain in its closed state if the article is sensed in the container and to re-open the container if it is not so sensed, and when the container is closed a predetermined number of further times without the article being sensed, disabling action is taken.

Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing articles, particularly video tape cassettes, comprising a plurality of containers (26) for the articles and arranged in columns and having a transparent front panel to allow a user to identify the article therein. Each container being pivoted (42) and held closed by a latch (34, 47). Operation of the apparatus by a user selecting a container releasing the latch and allowing the container to be moved to an open position by a spring (53).

Abstract: Apparatus for use in a vending machine comprises a refrigerated storage chamber mounted over a microwave oven which contains a conveyor. The arrangement is such that containers of food released through apertures in the floor of the storage chamber may fall vertically into the oven and may be discharged laterally by the conveyor once heating is complete.

Abstract: An oven comprises a housing provided with an aperture which is closable by a single movable element. A conveyor is disposed within the housing, the arrangement being such that when the aperture is open articles may enter the oven from above and may be discharged laterally by the conveyor.

Abstract: Apparatus for making an infusion, e.g. tea or coffee, and having a piston and cylinder for blowing air through the infusion and then drawing it through a filter base, the cylinder having a flange which is slidably received between arms of a support, the flange having in its opposed side faces grooves which receive inward facing flanges on the arms and there being a disconnectable connection between the piston connecting rod and its operating crank so that, when said connection is disconnected, the cylinder can be mounted on and removed from the apparatus.