Abstract: An article accumulator is designed for use with a robotic hand. The accumulator comprises an open frame having an endless open conveyor for receiving and transporting individual aligned rows of generally flattened articles such as frozen burger patties. A receiving section of the accumulator initially receives the flattened articles in rectilinear rows. The rows of articles are then passed to a pick section of the accumulator. Operably associated with the pick section are a repositioning system and a lifting system. The repositioning system comprises an actuator, a set of plate members with vertically extending fingers, and a stop fence. The plate members are positioned below the open conveyor so that upon programmed activation, the plate members move upwardly a sufficient distance that their fingers encompass a number of articles. The fingers ensure that the articles are properly positioned. The lifting system is also positioned below the endless open conveyor holding the articles.

Abstract: A connector guide system for the constructing of block walls (12) is disclosed. The blocks (14) are uniformly notched (20,22,24,26) to allow for the placement of connector guides (16). The guides include platforms (18) upon which the blocks (14) rest. Based on constant placement of notches (20,22,24,26) and connector guides (16), the wall (12) is constructed to allow for uniform mortaring.

Abstract: An improved tobacco treating process for smoking articles including the steps of introducing tobacco to be dryed into a restricted pressure and flow controllable system to be entrained by pressurized stream for preselected residence time before disentrainment therefrom, the steam being held at preselected minimum pressure and velocity to improve fill value and smoking quality of the tobacco.

Abstract: An improved tobacco treating process for smoking articles including the steps of applying an ammonia source to tobacco to be dryed, passing the ammonia treated tobacco in a restricted pressure and flow controllable system to be entrained by pressurized steam for a preselected residence time before disentrainment therefrom, the steam being held at preselected minimum pressure and velocity to improve flavor quality and fill value of the tobacco.