Abstract: An improved tape wrapping machine is provided which includes a tape slack device for creating a predetermined amount of untensioned slack in the tape web at the end of each cycle of operation to prevent the need for the operator to pull the tape from the supply roll at the beginning of the next taping cycle. The tape slack device includes a slack arm mounted for pivotal movement between tension and slack positions to create the necessary slack without movement of the tape supply roll. A tape feed support/slide and a retractable knife operate to effectively cut the web of tape during each cycle while creating an end portion of the tape for contact by the article during the next taping operation. The knife device is positioned to cut the nonadhesive side of the tape thereby permitting uninterrupted taping operations. A tape wrap collet includes elastomer fingers ensuring the tape conforms to the outer surface of the article thereby creating a tight tape wrap.

Abstract: The container loading and unloading system includes a first set of cables attached to the front of the container, a second set of cables attached to the rear of the container, a winch for alternately extending and retracting the cables by rotating a cross bar, a pair of substantially parallel rails for supporting the bottom of the container, a pivot bar located between and normal to both rails, and a yoke for supporting the pivot bar. To load the container--which may be a camper, a cargo box or a tool box--a cross bar is rotated in a first direction to extend the first set of cables and to retract the second set of cables, thereby pulling the container along the rail members onto a raised surface. The rails pivot along with the container on the pivot bar to assist in the loading operation.

Abstract: An improved machine for undercutting the commutator of a DC motor. Designed specifically to undercut the mica insulation slots of a commutator, the device includes drive means to allow slippage of an undercutting assembly so that saw and spindle assembly damage are avoided. The invention also incorporates an automatic skewing attachment which indirectly senses misallignment of mica slots to be undercut and acts to reposition the commutator as needed so that the mica slot undercutting process may continue.

Abstract: Horizontal damping elements are arranged in the water distribution chamber to damp out wave action in the water flowing to the individual compartments formed by vertical baffles. The damping elements may be integral with the baffles to form one-piece members or may be formed of flat plates separate from the baffles. The dampening elements prevent periodic fluctuations from occurring in the water streams from which steam is produced and thus fluctuations in the amounts of generated steam.

Abstract: An electric steam generator includes a vessel housing at least one dish-shaped electrode having a bottom with a plurality of openings. A water distribution means is spaced above each electrode and provides a plurality of water jets which impinge on the electrode. The water distribution means is movable relative to the electrode to adjust the number of jets which impinge on the electrode. A stationary collecting means is provided between the water distribution means and the electrode for intercepting the excess water. Each collecting means is also located out of vertical alignment with the respective electrode. The distribution means are fixed to a rotatable pipe which serves to move the distribution means and through which water can be fed to the distribution means. A collecting grid is disposed below each of the electrodes to collect the water jets issuing from the opening in the bottom of each electrode.

Abstract: A vehicular mounted, multiply-articulated aerial lift and ladder assembly comprised of a terminally affixed and partially enclosed platform member pivotally connected to a linked parallel bar assembly having a ladder section as the outward longitudinal element thereof, wherein the linked parallel bar assembly is in turn pivotally connected to the uppermost end of the extension member of a vertically displaceable dual-membered main extension ladder assembly which at the lower end thereof is pivotally attached to a horizontally rotatable platform affixed to a supporting structure upon the vehicle, the entire combined aerial lift and ladder assembly heretofore described having displacement powering means entirely operable from a control panel within the platform member, whereby a person occupying the platform may accurately position and maintain himself in an extended aerial work location within the horizontally oriented platform member.