Abstract: A dual mode strapper for strapping an article is illustrated with a strap-forming mechanism capable of selectively operating in a first mode to pre-form an endless pre-formed strap of a predetermined length at least slightly greater than an initial perimeter of the article to be strapped, and in a second mode to apply strapping material directly to the article to be strapped and thereafter form the strapping material into an endless directly applied strap around the article. The strap-forming mechanism defines an opening in which the article is received. The dual mode strapper may also include a pre-formed strap holding area adjacent the strap-forming mechanism that extends at least partially around the opening.

Abstract: Embodiments of a dispensing apparatus capable of dispensing flexible material coiled on a roll or winding flexible material onto a roll include a rotatable spindle having an attached end and an opposite free end, a first roll guide proximate the attached end of the spindle, a second roll guide positionable proximate the free end of the spindle and at least one selectively actuated clutch arm operatively coupled to the spindle and movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The spindle is configured to extend through an axial hole of the roll and the second roll guide is removable to allow installation or removal of the roll from the spindle. When in the locked position, at least a portion of the clutch arm extends through a side surface of the spindle and is engageable with the roll to reduce rotation of the roll relative to the spindle.

Abstract: One embodiment of a hook system for lifting heavy loads includes a body, a hook coupled to the body and a lock member positioned at least partially within the body and engageable with the hook, where the locking axis of the lock pin is not coaxial with the body axis of the body. Another embodiment has a hook clearing member coupled to the body that can clear lifting slings from the hook as it moves from a closed position to an open position. In another embodiment, the body is rotatably coupled to a swivel and has a rotation pin allowing for selective rotation of the body relative to the swivel. Another embodiment has a deliberate engagement feature providing a predetermined resistance to movement of the hook from an open position to the closed position to prevent inadvertent locking. Another embodiment has a retractor that moves the hook, when unlocked, toward an open position.