Abstract: A method and apparatus for continuously making a brush mat for brush manufacture integrates a continuous source of extruded and cut filaments with forming an extrusion of thermoplastic material on an end of the filaments to form the brush mat. The brush mat can then be cut and used in its straight configuration or shaped in a ring or other form as part of a subsequent brush making step.

Abstract: A strip brush assembly for sweeping devices or machines comprises a plurality of metallic wires with attachment ends thereof being secured to a polymeric hub. The hub, while retaining the wire ends together is bonded or attached to a polymeric base that is configured with a channel to receive the hub. The base also has members shaped to secure the base to a brush assembly holder. An apparatus for making the brush assembly includes an extruder/shaping device that takes lengths of wires and continuously extrudes and shapes the hub around ends of the wires. The hub is then continuously attached to a polymeric base using fusion, adhesives, a combination of the two, or the like. The hub-containing base can then be cut to length as a metallic wire strip brush assembly for use on a mandrel.

Abstract: A polygonal protective carton for a rotary broom which has a central support tube and bristles extending radially therefrom to form a substantially cylindrical broom. The carton includes ends which have hubs that extend into the open ends of the tube to substantially suspend the broom in the carton to prevent shifting therein which would cause damage to the bristles.