Abstract: Uninterrupted Media Change (UMC) is a solution for changing between input channels such that complete segments of content are observed in the output channel. UMC provides for seamless switching between concurrent, multi-segment, media data streams. Media data streams are input channels composed of discrete segments of information, which may include audio, images or video content. Segments are defined by points that mark the beginning and end of content within the input data stream. When a UMC event is selected by a user, the next segment beginning for the target input channel is detected and that target segment is buffered until the end of the current active segment is reached, at which point the buffered target segment is made the new active segment and presented to the user from its buffered beginning.

Abstract: A machine and method for making bags is described and includes a web traveling from an input section to a rotary drum, to an output section. The rotary drum includes at least one seal bar, having a single sealing zone, and an weakening zone disposed within the single sealing zone. The single sealing zone may be a heated perforator, includes a heating wire. The heating wire may be an NiCr wire and make intermittent contact with the web and be disposed in an insert. The weakening zone may create a line of weakness that is uniform or varies in intensity. The sealing zone may include temperature zones, cartridge heaters, cooling air, or heated air, or a source of ultrasonic, microwave or radiative energy.

Abstract: Uninterrupted Media Change (UMC) is a solution for changing between input channels such that complete segments of content are observed in the output channel. UMC provides for seamless switching between concurrent, multi-segment, media data streams. Media data streams are input channels composed of discrete segments of information, which may include audio, images or video content. Segments are defined by points that mark the beginning and end of content within the input data stream. When a UMC event is selected by a user, the next segment beginning for the target input channel is detected and that target segment is buffered until the end of the current active segment is reached, at which point the buffered target segment is made the new active segment and presented to the user from its buffered beginning.

Abstract: A machine and method for making bags is described and includes a web traveling from an input section to a rotary drum, to an output section. The rotary drum includes at least one seal bar, having a first sealing zone, and an adjacent weakening zone. The weakening zone may be a heated perforator, includes a heating wire, or be disposed to create an auxiliary sealed area. The heating wire can have, connected thereto, a source of power that is at an adjustable voltage or magnitude, and/or pulsed, and/or a feedback loop. The heating wire may be an NiCr wire and make intermittent contact with the web and be disposed in an insert. The weakening zone may create a line of weakness that is uniform or varies in intensity, is a separating zone, or includes a heat film, a toothed blade, a row of pins, a source of air, or a source of vacuum. The sealing zones may include temperature zones, cartridge heaters, cooling air, or heated air, or a source of ultrasonic, microwave or radiative energy.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for winding film includes haul-in rolls, a spindle, an airhorn, a kick-roll, and a belt or ropes to convey the film. A source of air creates an air curtain downstream of the spindle. The air curtain directs the leading edge of the film into the airhorn and over the spindle. A film guide located upstream of the airhorn guides a leading edge of the film back into its own nip. An air guide located between the film guide and the conveyor leading to the spindle prevents air from going back upstream of the airhorn. The guides are comprised of a non-stick material. Holes near the edge of guide allow air to exit the air horn, without perturbing the film where it tucks into its own nip. A static pinner may pin the leading edge of the film to the spindle. The spindle may have a winding surface tapered by less 0.03 inches per foot. The spindle has an air inlet, and outlet holes. The inlet area is greater than the hole area, by up to a 7:1 ratio.