Abstract: A spool handling device (10) for engaging and disengaging a spool (5) having, a base (14), a spindle (15) supported by the base and adapted to receive the spool, a latch assembly (74) pivotally mounted relative to the base and including a latch (76) for releasably securing the spool on the spindle, and an ejection arm (77) for assisting in removal of the spool from the spindle.

Abstract: A roller board (16) for organizing a plurality of filaments (14) from spools (28) for delivery to a collection point, includes a first plurality of rollers (40) arranged to form spaces (42) therebetween, and a second plurality of rollers (44), each pivotable at one end (80) positioned proximate the first plurality of rollers (40), the second plurality of rollers (44) oriented substantially perpendicular to the first plurality of rollers, wherein the plurality of filaments (14) are individually positioned in the spaces and the second plurality of rollers are selectively pivoted to enclose the filaments.

Abstract: A loading chuck (25) suspended by a cable (C) for grasping a spool (S), including strand material (M) disposed thereon between the flanges (14, 15) thereof, in a container, transporting the spool to a position proximate a creel and orienting the spool for positioning on a creel spindle, includes a plurality of substantially parallel arms (50), shoes (60) carried by the arms, gripping elements (61; 80, 80') on the shoes for engaging the spool, a lifting link (20) adapted for attachment to the cable, a linkage (26) interposed between the lifting link and the arms and maintaining the arms substantially parallel through the extent of travel thereof to bring the gripping elements into and out of engagement with the spool, and a pivot (55) mounting the shoes relative to the arms for selectively rotationally orienting the spool.