Abstract: Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an automatic-strap-feeding system for feeding strap to a strapping machine. The automatic-strap-feeding system is configured to feed strap from either one of two separate strap coils to the strapping machine; to determine when that strap coil is running low on strap; and, in response, automatically switch to the other (full) strap coil. This quick and automated switchover process minimizes strapping machine downtime and reduces stress on operators to quickly swap the depleted strap coil with a full one.

Abstract: A dispenser apparatus for holding, dispensing, and severing lengths of flexible duct connector material from side-by-side coils thereof includes a guide station and a cut-off station shiftable laterally of the apparatus and into alignment with a selected one of the coils. The coils are supported on an anti-friction cradle which includes anti-friction rollers extending laterally of the device, the ends of the rollers being supported on chains hung in catenary fashion. Since the rollers are capable of moving toward and away from each other, they are free to define a cradle which conforms to the periphery of the specific coil which is being fed to assure that the connector material may be withdrawn for processing with the lowest possible force.

Abstract: A splicing head for an automatic zero-speed web splicing machine is disclosed in which the end of a new roll of web material can be prepared for splicing directly on resilient nip rollers which are used by the machine to perform the splicing operation. In particular, the splicing head includes a knife carriage through which the web material passes and which can be moved transversely to the web travel direction under control of a cam and lever arrangement to introduce a predetermined loop of slack into the web material.The action of the cam and lever mechanism also positions a serrated preparation blade mounted on cantilever arms in front of the nip rollers for squarely trimming the edge of the web material.