Abstract: By providing a pair of vacuum manifolds positioned on opposite sides of an envelope travel path with the vacuum manifolds being laterally spaced apart, a unique, effective and dependable envelope handling system is achieved whereby the envelope sides are consistently separated and the contents removed therefrom and positioned in a readily accessible channel. Preferably, the envelope handling system also incorporates a sensor for automatically and separately inspecting each side of the envelope to determine the presence of additional material which should be processed. In this way, any such material is automatically discovered for handling by the operator.

Abstract: This container is a unique self-dosing and dispensing container. Through the use of a one-piece, self-aligning valve which moves from one position of closing a dispensing opening to a position of opening the dispensing opening and simultaneously closing the opening between the container and the chamber which contains the dispensing opening. The valve is operated by a change in pressure within the container. The change in pressure in the container is induced by flowing an excess of fluide from the container so as to cause a negative pressure. There are various techniques for creating a negative pressure in the container, including the use of a bellows built into the container and a squeezing of the sidewalls of the container.

Abstract: An electrical connector system comprising a cylindrical plug assembly with terminals and a cylindrical socket assembly with terminals is disclosed. The assemblies may be axially joined virtually independent of their rotational orientation with respect to each other to effect the proper coupling of the terminals. The terminals of each assembly are recessed within their assemblies and coil springs are positioned to bias the terminals into an electrical coupling relationship with one other.

Abstract: A container opener comprises an elongated plastic body having a hollow internal chamber, open at one end, such that a disposable cigarette lighter may be snugly inserted into the chamber. The opener has a recessed opening at the opposite end with its inner wall having a slot of a size and shape to receive the tab of a tab-top beverage container so that the container may be opened by upwardly pivoting the opener relative to the container. The recessed opening at the end of the container opener also provides a crown cap removing mechanism for removing a crown cap on a beverage bottle.