Abstract: An insulation portion for an electrochemical cell having a plurality of slots into which bent electrode tabs are slid through during an assembly process of an electrochemical cell. A latch is disposed adjacent the slots and is movable from a resting position to a biased position to engage the electrode tabs. Attachment of the insulation portion to the electrochemical cell and bending of the electrode tabs can be robotically performed, such that controllers of an attachment device and bending device are in communication with each other.

Abstract: An insulation portion for an electrochemical cell having a plurality of slots into which bent electrode tabs are slid through during an assembly process of an electrochemical cell. A latch is disposed adjacent the slots and is movable from a resting position to a biased position to engage the electrode tabs. Attachment of the insulation portion to the electrochemical cell and bending of the electrode tabs can be robotically performed, such that controllers of an attachment device and bending device are in communication with each other.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for uniformly twisting hollow, open-seam rods with preferably rectangular cross-sections for use as decorative curtain rods are disclosed. The twist extends throughout substantially the entire length of the rod. This feature enables a telescoped pair of rods, that is, a pair of rods with an inner rod dimensioned to slide into and out of an outer rod, to be twisted simultaneously such that the telescoping feature is maintained after twisting. The apparatus includes a rotatable first chuck and a substantially non-rotatable second chuck. Each chuck has male and female components to engage the inner and outer surfaces of a respective end of the rod. These components prevent buckling along the open seam and permit twisting throughout substantially the entire length of the rods. Sensor controls ensure uniform twisting and controlled unwinding of the rods.