Abstract: A yarn package manipulator permits an operator to mechanically grasp and manipulate packages or spools of stranded materials, such as yarn for loading and replenishing such materials in a manufacturing process. The package manipulator is suspended from a lifting device such as a cable hoist and has a control handle coupled to its frame for the operator to maneuver the device and carried materials. Selectively extensible fingers are pivotally attached to a pivot arm extending from the manipulator frame. The fingers are operable to grip the package by its core and pivots about a horizontal axis so that the spool of stranded material may be oriented for loading onto a creel or other station in a manufacturing process.

Abstract: A creel magazine for continuously delivering packaged stranded material to a manufacturing process. A plurality of magazines linearly disposed in substantially parallel alignment are alternately supplied stranded materials fed to the manufacturing process from movable magazine cartridges supporting packages of stranded materials form either side of the magazine frame. The apparatus and method provide for sequential delivery of stranded materials from packages supported by cartridges at the sides of the magazines, intermediate replenishment of the depleted cartridges with cartridges loaded with replenished packages.

Abstract: A creel magazine for delivering packaged stranded material to a creel. The magazine includes magazine frame having guides for directing stranded materials to a creel or manufacturing process. Movable magazine cartridges rotatably support packages of stranded materials and are positioned on either side of the magazine frame. The apparatus and method provide for sequential delivery of stranded materials by alternating delivery sources between cartridges, intermediate replenishment of spent packages by rotation of a full package to a delivery position, and replenishment of spent cartridges.