Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus of converting a stream of pixel data representing an image in the first orientation in space and time into a stream of bitplane data representing an image in the second orientation. The second orientation can be a horizontal, vertical, or a combination of thereof of the first orientation. The method of the invention can be performed in a “real-time” fashion, and dynamically performs predefined transformation, or alternatively performed in by a functional module implemented in a computer readable medium stored in a computing device.

Abstract: Apparatus for providing a continuous supply of workpieces to a pickup station comprises a frame having a magazine in the top thereof, the workpieces being packaged in open-ended trays stacked in the magazine. A pickup plate assembly pivots downward from a position paralleling the bottom of the magazine, where it picks up a tray, to an inclined delivery position aligned with the inclined surface of a delivery station. Holding means are released so the connectors slide from the open end of the tray until it is empty. Thereafter the pickup plate pivots further downward and the empty tray is ejected.