Abstract: A fully automatic device is provided for handling components-containing tubes and for feeding the components contained in these tubes into the input rail or "accumulator" of the loading area of a component processing equipment. Another fully automatic device which is very similar in structure to the above device is also provided for recovering the components from the output rail of the unloading area of the component processing equipment, and reinserting such components into their tubes. Both of these devices have a column holder mounted on a frame for receiving and holding a column of tubes stacked one above the other. A rotatable barrel having a conical shape and a horizontal axis supports a set of tube catching assemblies.

Abstract: A device for carrying electronic components of various sizes and lengths from a loading area to an unloading area. The device has an endless loop conveyor having a continuously moving element extending longitudinally between the loading area and the unloading area. It also has a plurality of gripping element for gripping the electronic components, which are opened at the loading and unloading areas over a predetermined distance for enabling engagement of at least one electronic component and gripping thereof at the loading area, and disengagement of the electronic component and release thereof at the unloading area. The gripping elements are attached to the continuously moving element and have a pair of elongated legs pivotably connected together in a plane transversal to the continuous moving element and having opposite lower ends. A spring is operatively associated with the legs for urging the lower ends of the legs together.