Abstract: The invention provides a machine and methods for automated manufacture of tapered adjustable ducts, and particularly tapered adjustable take offs. A tube of material is cut into gores of predetermined configuration, coupling beads are formed in the gores and the gores are adjustably interconnected to one another to form the finished take off duct in an automated fashion. The apparatus for forming an adjustable duct member may include a housing including at least one work station formed therein. A die associated with the work station is selectively positioned at a predetermined location relative to a work piece positioned in association with the work station. A cutting and forming assembly associated with the work station cooperates with the die to selectively cut the work piece to form first and second members and to form a coupling bead in the first and second members which cooperate to reconnect the first and second members together at a predetermined angle.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for automated manufacture of connective fittings on a duct member, and particularly a tapered adjustable take off. The connective fitting is generally placed near the inlet of the duct member and comprises a seating bead. The connective fitting can also comprise a seating ring groove for use in conjunction with a seating ring for applications involving connection of the duct member through a duct board. The apparatus for forming a connective fitting on the duct member may include a housing including a work station formed therein. A die associated with the work station is selectively positioned at a predetermined location relative to a work piece positioned in association with the work station. A forming assembly associated with the work station cooperates with the die to selectively form a connective fitting in the work piece at a predetermined angle.