Abstract: A conveyor-transfer apparatus for transferring artificial Christmas tree piquets (branches) from a first conveyor on which the piquets are parallel to the direction of travel of the conveyor to a second conveyor where they are arranged transverse to the direction of conveyor travel whereby their ends can be tapered. This is accomplished automatically without the use of manual labor.

Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree construction wherein artificial foliage (i.e., pine needles) is secured to rings of successively smaller diameter. The rings are supported on rods which extend outwardly and downwardly from a central support column. The tree may be stored and shipped in a carton of smaller volumetric capacity than is required for prior art artificial tree constructions.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for manufacturing an artificial tree of the type wherein a plurality of stiffly flexible stem members are intertwisted to capture stiffly flexible limb members. The method comprises (a) inserting the limb members between the stem members at spaced predetermined positions, (b) placing a slitted web along the stem members, and (c) intertwisting the stem members to capture the limb members at spaced longitudinal positions and to capture the slitted web. An artificial tree produced by this method has a full, natural appearance. Also disclosed is an apparatus for continuously and automatically performing this method.

Abstract: An improved door is provided for a mail sorting bin which is made of a resilient noise damping material and includes a trip lever integrally formed with the door. The trip lever is substantially coplanar with the door and has a first portion extending outwardly from a first transverse end of the door, a second portion which extends generally outwardly and downwardly from the first portion to engage the movable lever which holds the door shut, and a third portion which extends upward to a point even with the upper edge of the door and to define an aperture between the trip lever and the door. The door is attached between the sides of a mail sorting bin such that one side of the bin extends through this aperture. A tab, may also be formed integrally with the door so that it extends outwardly from the opposite transverse end of the door. This tab is positioned to be engaged by a spring which urges the door open.

Abstract: An artificial tree includes a vertical trunk and a number of elongated limb assemblies mounted about the circumference of the trunk so that the limb assemblies extend downwardly along and outwardly from the trunk to define a truncated cone. A frusto conical member is mounted within the truncated cone defined by the branch assembly to provide a background for the branch assemblies and to create the appearance of a thicker, fuller artificial tree.

Abstract: A bin used in mail sorting apparatus includes a plurality of parallel vertical slots. The bottom of each slot is closed by a pivotably movable door. A tab is integrally formed with the door having a first part that is at a right angle to the door and a second part extending from the first part and parallel to the door. The tab is engaged by a resiliant damping means which prevents objectionable noise and vibration when the door is opened.