Abstract: A baggage handling device (1) comprising, in combination, a vacuum gripping foot (2) and a non-vacuum, mechanical engagement device (3) such as a simple hook or a power operated claw (4), with an operator activated control device to select either the vacuum gripping foot (2), or the mechanical device (3) as appropriate, for any particular item of baggage; with a powered hoisting an operator activated control device (6) to raise and lower the duplex unit (2, 3), as necessary in a baggage handling sequence.

Abstract: A system for controlling vacuum lifting apparatus 2 comprising a bellows like lift tube 3 having an interior 6 connectable to a vacuum pump, with a suction foot 10 associated with the lift tube 4. Valve 1, serving to connect the interior 6 at a controllable level to atmosphere to regulate the internal vacuum and hence the axial extension of the lift tube 3, comprises a housing 11 having a first connection 12 to the suction foot 10 in air-flow communication with a first chamber 13 of the housing 11, which chamber 13 has an outlet 14 to atmosphere controlled by a first valve member 15.

Abstract: Vacuum lifting apparatus 1 containing a lift tube 2 which is extendable and retractable in length, and is located in an upright disposition with an upper end 3 connectable to a fixed or movable anchorage point or support 4, the lift tube interior 6 being connectable to a vacuum generating structure and each end 3, 7 of the tube 2 provided with air sealing structure, valve means 10 to connect the interior of the lift tube 2 at a controllable level to atmosphere to regulate the vacuum therein and hence the axial extension of the lift tube 2, and a relatively rigid device 11 located within the lift tube 2, which device 11 is axially displaceable or extendable and retractable with the lift tube 2 and carries at a lower end a means 14 for engaging a load to be lifted, transported and lowered.