Abstract: A multiline fluid distribution system having an articulated fluid loading arm, which is swingable in vertical and horizontal planes, for selectively coupling the swingable fluid outlet end of the loading arm to any one of a plurality of parallel fluid transfer lines extending horizontally in a honey comb-like array. The fluid outlet end of the loading arm is supported on and transported by a carriage to the designated fluid transfer line for coupling therewith.

Abstract: A cutting apparatus for severing a sheath of thermoplastic material during a bag manufacturing operation. The cutting apparatus comprises a stationary frame (1) having a pair of timing pulleys (130, 131) mounted thereon which intermittently drive an endless timing belt (61) looped around the pulleys. The timing belt carries a cutter blade (56) across the width of the sheath during an intermittent cutting run for severing the sheath. The mid-portion of the timing belt is vertically displaceable by two pairs of vertically and horizontally spaced apart guide pulleys (135-138) supported on a vertically moveable frame (143, 71, 144) centered between the timing pulleys on the stationary frame. The vertically displacement of the mid-portion of the timing belt positions the cutter blade for the cutting run across the width of the sheath.

Abstract: An electromagnetic vibratory exciter having a non-linear elastomeric compression spring mounted in four quadrants around an electromagnet. The spring having curved armature contact surfaces of different heights on laterally opposite adjacent quadrants for providing selectable non-linear stiffening and deflection rates.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mechanism, associated with a thermoplastic bag making machine, for preparing a strip of thermoplastic to produce bags having the upper edges of the bag mouth formed in a sinusodial shape such that the peak of such shape is substantially equi-distant relative to the side edges of the bag. While the disclosed bag machine is of the type that advances the web strip incrementally, shaping of the web strip in the sinusodial shape occurs while a portion of the web strip is advanced at substantially constant velocity. A mechanism is provided for maintaining constant tension in the web despite the constant and intermittent feeding of the web.