Abstract: A plurality of continuous strings which have been formed in a molding machine are wound about vertical axes. The strings are pulled from the molding machine simultaneously by a first tensioning device which maintains the strings under tension. The strings are advanced simultaneously from the first tensioning mechanism by a first drive means. As the strings are advanced by the first drive means, they are drawn by a plurality of second tensioning mechanisms which maintain the strings under tension. The strings are wound upon respective reels which pull the strings from the second tensioning mechanisms. The reels are capable of rotating independently of one another. After a preselected number of turns of the string have been wound, a reinforcing member is clamped against an upper edge of those turns to prevent the subsequently wound outer turns from excessively radially compressing the inner turns.

Abstract: A continuous string of molded items is formed and advanced toward a winder, the latter being periodically rotated. A tensioner member takes-up slack in the advancing string when the winder is stopped. The biasing force applied to the tensioner is reduced during periods when the winder is rotated, in order to reduce the tendency for the string to be excessively stressed.

Abstract: Provided is a method and apparatus for molding and winding in a continuous operation a string of molded items. The molded items of the string or chain are molded in spaced relationship to one another and are connected by molded scrap connectors. The string of molded items is then advanced until only a trailing connector of the last molded item extends into the mold cavity. Upon subsequent molding operation, therefore, the subsequent molded item is molded integral with the existing string of molded items. The continuous string of molded items is kept under constant tension and wound periodically into a coil. The molding, advancing, tensioning and winding operations are all integrated and synchronized in order to provide a wound package which greatly facilitates its use in an automatic assembly operation.

Abstract: A composite hinge for a toilet seat comprises three leaves, namely, a bowl leaf, a seat leaf and a lid leaf. The three leaves are assembled into a unit by snap fitting the individual pieces together in interlocking manner. The assembled hinge is then adapted to be secured to the underside of the lid and to the underside of the seat ring by snap fitting the respective leaves into expandible holes in the seat ring and lid. The seat ring and lid are provided with studs with enlarged frusto-conical heads which are adapted to pass through the expandible holes which, after passage, contract to capture the studs.