Abstract: Apparatus for controlled dielectric heating a plurality of thermoplastic preforms for blow molding is provided. The apparatus controls the energization of a plurality of electrode pairs by a radio frequency generator. The generator is equipped with a load current limit detector and the electrode energization is enabled selectively for a predetermined time or until a predetermined load current magnitude is reached. The choice of control is determined by the anticipated load as reflected by the number of preforms within the heating station. The generator is further provided with overload detecting means indicative of the occurrence of electrical arcing within the heating station and the apparatus has further means responsive to the arc detector for selectively momentarily or indefinitely deenergizing the electrodes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for transporting products to and from the machine function operating stations of an integrated machine. The apparatus provides a table for carrying the products which is rotatably indexed by a drive system as required by the overall machine cycle of operation. The indexing drive system comprises an indexer, a driving motor, a brake, means for monitoring the orientation of the table and indexer input and circuitry operative to control the motor and brake to execute the cycle of operation of the indexer while simultaneously initiating activity of the machine operating station mechanisms in accordance with the disclosed method.