Abstract: For controlling the progressive operation of a tool along a predetermined path, wherein at least one operating parameter relating to the operation of the tool can be varied during the progressive operation thereof, a limited number of values for said at least one parameter is pre-set, each value being provided with an identification by which, in a path-determining mode, at each of a plurality of selected points along said path (defined by coordinate axis values for said path) one such value can be selected, the coordinate axis values together with the selected identification being stored for subsequent recall. By way of example, the operating parameter(s) may be the speed of rotation of and/or the pressure applied to a tool of a shoe bottom roughing machine using the speed of rotation of a rotary brush assembly forming part of an adhesive-applying tool assembly and/or the flow rate of adhesive supplied to the adhesive-applying tool in an adhesive-applying machine.

Abstract: A shoe support for supporting lasts of a wide range of sizes comprises two support members in the form of spaced-apart bars (38) each of which can pivot at an axis (36) extending adjacent an elongated edge of its associated bar so that the distance between the ends of the bars can be varied. Instead of bars (38), plate members (138) may be used, dimensioned so as to provide a substantially continuous support surface, for e.g. shoe components, when pivoted to a horizontal position. For maintaining the support members (38;138) in adjusted position, furthermore, a friction arrangement (40,42; 144,146) is provided. The shoe support is especially suitable for use in a shoe transporter system forming part of a drying apparatus in which the bottoms of shoes and/or shoe components to which a coating of e.g. adhesive has been applied can be supported by the shoe supports with the coated surfaces exposed to turbulent air and heat.