Abstract: A device for use in varying the effective cross-sectional area of an outlet opening of a dispensing unit for nested containers, e.g. paper cups, comprises at least two shutter members, pivotally mounted on equispaced pivots of a support means at the outlet end portion of the unit to define the outlet opening. The members are mounted for movement to vary the size of the opening; an adjustment device is mounted for rotation in operative connection with the shutter members whereby to move the members to adjust the size of the outlet opening. Adjustment of the area of the opening is readily accomplished so that the unit can be adjusted to accommodate cups of different dimensions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hole forming machine which has two or more punching heads for punching holes in a sheet of metal. The sheet of metal is moved relative to the punching heads in a guide frame to which is attached a stylus. The stylus is swept over a template having a pattern of pilot holes formed therein. By locating the stylus sequentially in the pilot holes and operating the punching heads, the pattern of holes on the template can be mapped on to the sheet of metal. The provision of two or more punching heads substantially reduces positional errors in the punched pattern.