Abstract: Apparatus for use in a filter assembly operation wherein filter components are seated within a filter frame such that the frame has a generally upstanding leading flap, side flaps and a trailing flap. The apparatus includes side flap engaging members adapted to push the pair of side flaps outwardly to provide clearance necessary to close the leading and trailing flaps. A stationary ski member located downstream of the side edge engaging members is adapted to close the leading edge, and a retractable ski member located at least partially upstream of the retractable side flap engaging members is adapted to close the trailing flap, thereby permitting the side flaps to be subsequently closed in at least partially overlapping relationship with the leading and trailing flaps. A related method is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for automatically placing valve vented bags on a filling spout. The apparatus includes a first table disposed adjacent a bag conveyor for sequentially receiving individual bags from the conveyor. A first bag clamp is disposed adjacent the first table for sequentially clamping the bags against the table. A first retractable suction cup device cooperates with the bags for opening the valve vent of clamped bags. A first bag gripper is located on a first carriage supported and guided by a first pair of rails. The first pair of rails are pivotally mounted such that the first carriage is alternately guided to a plurality of filling spouts. The gripper grips the open valve vented bag and transfers the open bag to one of the plural filling spouts.

Abstract: Manual and/or accelerator pedal auxiliary controls for conventional vehicular braking systems. The manual control is adapted to the steering column of the vehicle and is mounted for auxiliary actuation, relative to the conventional brake pedal system of the vehicle. The accelerator pedal control which may be used in supplement or in auxiliary relation to both manual and conventional brake pedal control, is adapted to simultaneously prevent inadvertent acceleration during the braking function.