Abstract: A self-powered vehicle especially adapted for handling modules of cotton comprising a single frame which serves not only as a chassis frame for the vehicle, but also serves as a conveyor frame. Apparatus is associated with one set of wheels, either the front or rear set, to raise and lower the frame relative to that set of wheels, thus to place one end of the frame closely adjacent the ground or to a pallet on which the module rests. Apparatus also is provided to drive the vehicle and the conveyor in opposite directions whereby the module may be loaded onto the conveyor without substantial translatory movement of the module. Further details include sensors effective to limit downward movement of the loading and unloading end of the frame; and a control cab mounted immediately adjacent the loading and unloading end of the frame and displaced laterally therefrom.

Abstract: The specification discloses apparatus for baling fibers in which the baling chamber is defined at least in part by one wall mounted for movement from a first position relative to an opposite wall to a second position farther from the second wall. There is means for moving the movable wall away from the second wall after the platen has entered the baling chamber but prior to final compression of the bale therein or means to move the wall in response to a predetermined bale compressing position of the movable platen. Further, the wall may be moved in response to a predetermined compressive force exerted by the platen on the bale. Still further, means is provided to overcompress the bale to some extent thus to destroy some of the inherent spring-back of the bale of fibers.

Abstract: A baling chamber for fibers and the like having a pair of side walls and a pair of end walls, one of the end walls being split vertically and with its halves pivotally mounted to the pivoted side doors. Linkage mechanism is associated with the split end door to cause its parts to move away from the bale and away from each other when the side doors are opened. The mechanism also includes improved means for locking the walls together, such as a floating locking bar carried by one of the side walls and disposed to engage the free end of one of the other walls. A contoured slot in a part of the wall causes the locking bar to assume proper locking and unlocking positions.