Abstract: An apparatus and method for ensuring the accuracy and utility of cut-to-length systems. Multiple channels of measurement are employed, by which a first channel of measurement produces a first measurement of a work piece taken between a cutting mechanism and a limit stopper. A second channel of measurement produces a second measurement, wherein cutting of the work piece by the cutting mechanism cannot be made unless the first measurement agrees with the second measurement.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming flat-bottomed plastic bags uses a flattened plastic tubing as a raw material. The tubing is unwound from a roll, and is passed around a gusset plate assembly, where guide members on opposite sides of the gusset plate assembly guide outside edges of the tubing inwardly between a pair of gusset plates to form gussets in the tubing. In a preferred embodiment, microperforations are formed in the bag material to provide ventilation to the finished bags.

Abstract: This invention relates to flexible internal liners for reducing the amount of oil spilled by oil tankers due to groundings, collisions, and other major accidents. The liner comprises a flexible oil-resistant impermeable plastic or rubber, which preferably is reinforced by steel mesh or woven aramid fibers. In one embodiment, a independent segment is provided in each bay between two stiffeners. The horizontal edges of each liner segment are coupled to the stiffeners, near the ends of the stiffeners, to provide enough material for the liner to be pushed inward a substantial distance if a collision or grounding occurs. The edges can be secured by detachable clamps; this will provide watertight seals during normal operation, while allowing the segment to be detached and opened when the hull is inspected.

Abstract: A method is disclosed of constructing a flat bottom in a plastic film tube having an open upper end, a closed lower end formed by a transverse seal, forward and rearward sides and a pair of opposing pleated sides that interconnect the forward and rearward sides. The method includes the steps of releasably engaging a lower vacuum and a lower clamp with a transverse section of the rearward side of the tube to provisionally hold the transverse section. A lateral section of the forward side is gripped and raised by an upper vacuum and an upper clamp to expose a portion of the pleated sides such that first and second pockets are formed, respectively, in the sides.