Abstract: A trim press article ejector is provided having a support base, a linear actuator, at least one article ejector and a drive mechanism. The linear actuator is carried by the base. The at least one article ejector is carried by the linear actuator for axial movement to-and-fro. The drive mechanism is configured to reciprocate the linear actuator in order to move the at least one article ejector to-and-fro. A method is also provided.

Abstract: A rotating scissor ring is provided with a disk-shaped body, a first set of first finger knives, and a second set of second finger knives. The disk-shaped body has an outer peripheral surface. The first set of first finger knives is spaced apart about the outer peripheral surface. The second set of second finger knives is subdivided into a plurality of groups of second finger knives. The second finger knives are geometrically distinct from the first finger knives. Each group includes a plurality of second finger knives provided between a pair of adjacent first finger knives. A method is also provided.

Abstract: A web conveyor is provided having a frame, a pair of conveyor rails, and at least one sag rail. The pair of conveyor rails is carried by the frame in laterally spaced-apart relation. The pair of conveyor rails is configured to support and convey respective edges of a thermoformable web of plastic material. The at least one sag rail includes a friction-reducing material provided along at least a portion of a top edge of the sag rail. The sag rail is provided between the conveyor rails and extends longitudinally along a web travel path. The sag rail is configured to support a web of material intermediate the conveyor rails. A web support apparatus having one or more of friction-reducing material, local, raised portions, and a temperature regulator is also provided.

Abstract: An article stacking apparatus is provided having a barrel, a frame, a motor, and a drive mechanism. The frame is configured to support the barrel for rotation in a recumbent position. The drive mechanism couples together the frame and the motor to rotate the barrel to agitate cups within the barrel for stacking into accumulated configurations. A method is also provided.