Abstract: The splice of the present invention includes a web having a first free end and a second free end wherein the first and second ends are positioned proximal to each other. The web encloses one or more holes adjacent to each end. The web includes a top side and an opposing underside. The splice also includes an underside patch that is adhered to the web so that the underside patch covers the hole or holes and covers each of the free ends of the web. The underside patch is adhered to the web by a reversibly releasable layer. The upper side patch is positioned substantially parallel to the underside patch. The upper side patch contacts the underside patch through one or more of the holes thereby strengthening the splice.

Abstract: A rotary transfer device for placing and feeding articles includes a main rotating body, a motor coupled to the main rotating body, a center gear, a planetary gear, an article transfer mechanism and a servo motor. The rotating drive body motor rotates the main rotating body about an axis. The center gear continuously rotates about the axis. The planetary gear rotates with the main rotating body and is in rotational communication with the center gear. The article transfer mechanism rotates with the planetary gear and has at least one apex position of travel. The servo motor is in communication with the center gear and varies the continuous rotational velocity of the center gear to vary rotational velocity of the planetary gear.