Abstract: An unloader for removing hollow articles packed for shipment in nested layers is disclosed. The unloader includes retainer elements configured to engage interior surfaces of the hollow articles. Retentive forces arising from engagement of surfaces of the retainer elements with interior surfaces of the hollow articles as the retainer elements are inserted into the hollow articles are utilized to hold the articles on the retainer elements. Such forces can result from the deformation of elastic retaining elements as they are inserted into the article. A member or members associated with the unloader disengage the hollow articles from the unloader in a manner such that the hollow articles can be set down in an organized fashion. The embodiment disclosed is hand-manipulable.

Abstract: A multiple-shelved unit is disclosed, the unit being adapted for use in greenhouses, for supporting growing plants on the shelves thereof, the unit including a horizontal hollow shaft mounted for rotation and means for rotating the same, hub members carried by the shaft adjacent the ends thereof with each hub member supporting a plurality of radially-projecting hollow spokes and hollow elements carried by the spokes adjacent the outer ends thereof for pivotally supporting the shelves. The unit additionally includes means for connecting the hollow interior of said shaft to a water supply, means for providing water communication between the interior of said shaft and the interiors of the spokes supported by at least one of said hubs, and means for providing water communication between the lastmentioned spokes and the shelves whereby the plants supported by the shelves may be watered at desired intervals.