Abstract: A track assembly (34, FIG. 1) is provided for guiding electrical contacts (12) in single file movement between an outlet of a feeder bowl (14) and a final processor (42), which enables rapid changeover for feeding contacts of different sizes and shapes. The track assembly (32, FIG. 2) is a self-contained unit that includes a track housing (35) and an actuator-operated release mechanism (80) that releases a front-most of the contacts while holding back the other contacts and that includes an actuator (130) mounted on the track housing and energized by pressured air received through a conduit (136) extending to a control (140). The track assembly is detachable and reattachable as a unit from the feeder bowl and from the control, so that when larger contacts are to be fed, the track assembly can be removed and another almost identical track assembly can be installed by mechanically mounting it at the feeder bowl outlet and connecting conduits to the control.

Abstract: A swinging mechanism for maintaining pendular movement in a swing. A revolving plate is provided which engages a propulsion member on the swing so as to apply torque to the swing during part of the swing cycle, maintaining pendular movement of the swing despite energy loses due to air friction and the like. Switches are provided to activate rotation of the revolving plate when the swing has reached a rear position, and to continue movement of the revolving plate to return it to a neutral or original position in preparation for the next cycle of the swing movement.