Abstract: A means and method for handling trim strip slit from the margin of a travelling web, comprising rotary means by which biasing forces is applied to the strip away from the slitter into the chute. Within the chute relatively low velocity means advance the trim strip in a foldably bunched condition toward the bottom of the chute where the bunched trim strip is then transported away from the chute. Low velocity air, as well as rotary members are provided in the chute for effecting the foldable bunching and advancing of the trim strip. Either or both of low velocity air and mechanical conveying apparatus may be provided for transporting the trim strip away from the bottom of the chute.

Abstract: A stripping die assembly for a stripper in an in-line flat-bed press die cutting system, is prepared for installation in the press as an assembly, and removal from the press as an assembly. Upon installation, the stripping station of the press is essentially closed to enable securing the stripping die to its stationary support, and the movable template to its support before any disassembly of the stripping die from the template. After attachment to the respective press machine stripping station members, fasteners are removed to enable separation of the stripping die from the template, in perfect alignment. Following completion of a run of die cut products, the stripping station is again closed to the stripping position. Then the stripping die and template are again secured together while still attached to the press and in perfect alignment.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention protective envelopes for suction tubes or drinking straws as well as the tapes joining them are manufactured at the same time and of the same material. The suction tubes are placed with equal intervals transversely between two thermoplastic webs, whereupon these webs are sealed to each other around the suction tubes. At the same time the webs are punched or cut so that individual suction tube envelopes are obtained which are mutually connected by means of straps extending between the envelopes. In this manner all handling of separate wrapped suction tubes is avoided, so that the suction tube band can be manufactured with appreciably greater precision. The invention relates to the method of manufacture as well as to a machine for its realization and the finished suction tube band.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for manufacturing decals from a web of decal material, wherein core portions of waste material in the decals automatically can be removed from the decals. In one aspect of the invention, backing material is stripped from the decal material; the decal configurations are cut into the decal material; the waste exterior portion of the decal material is removed from the decals while the decals are retained in position on a vacuum wheel; and the core portions are removed by the vacuum in the wheel through enlarged openings opposite the core portions on the decals. In another aspect of the invention, the decal configurations are cut into the decal material while it remains on the backing material; the exterior waste portions are removed; and the core portions are removed by passing the backing material over the sharp edge of a peeling bar while pressing the decal portion downwardly on the backing material.

Abstract: A rotary die cutting machine having an integral scrap stripper for separating the scrap portion from the product portion of the cut sheet. The rotary die cutting machine includes a rotatably mounted cylindrical die cutting roll including a number of circumferentially and longitudinally extending upstanding rule-like dies affixed to the outer surface of the roll and defining a pattern for cutting a sheet into a product portion and a scrap portion. The scrap stripper includes a plurality of pin-like impaling members projecting outwardly from the roll, the pin-like members being positioned on the roll so as to pierce and hold the scrap portions to the roll such that the product portion separates from the scrap portion as the roll rotates.

Abstract: A stripping device for removing waste sheet material from the vicinity of a cutter. In one embodiment, a plurality of pins are mounted to a rotatable drum positioned adjacent a rotary steel cutting die. The die includes knives for cutting a sheet of material into a desired configuration with the waste portion of the sheet remaining wedged on the die. The stripper pins pierce and lift the waste portion of the sheet away from the die. In lieu of a drum, a plurality of hubs mounted to a common shaft may be provided having the stripping pins mounted thereon. In another embodiment, the stripping pins are mounted directly to the rotary cutter. A cam-actuated lever mounted to the rotary cutter is operable to eject the waste sheet portion from the stripping pins.

Abstract: The invention provides apparatus for separating portions of flat material cut-out from a web or sheet. First and second grippers respectively, which engage with first and second cut portions of flat material, are provided to travel along and define paths of motion for the first and second cut portions of flat material, which paths diverge from a point of separation. A feed conveyor is connected in front of the grippers and is synchronized with their drive.