Abstract: An apparatus for destrapping a load L constrained by multiple straps S, comprising a manipulating arm 1 carrying a working head 2 including photoelectric means 3, 17, 18 for locating one of the multiple straps S, irrespective of its orientation relative to the load, means 9,10 for engaging the strap S and means 6 for cutting the strap S while engaged to release the strap from the load, said strap being partly engaged by the engaging means 9 or 10 for removal of the strap for disposal, said manipulating arm operating under the control of a programmable controller C to perform said locating, engaging and cutting of the strap S.

Abstract: A machine (1) for erecting open topped cartons or trays from a substantially flat blank of varying height and footprint dimensions, comprising a magazine 3 adapted to support a supply of flat blanks of predetermined dimensions, a vacuum transfer means for transferring blanks one at a time from the supply to adjustable transfer rails (4)(62)(63) for transferring the blanks to a tray forming section 5, means G for applying glue to the blanks at predetermined locations, the tray forming section 5 including a variable well 6 defined by wall means 11 to 18 which are moveable in two directions to adjust the size of the well and a mandrel 7 having portions 40 to 43 which are moveable in two directions to adjust the size of the mandrel, and a cylinder 45 for pushing the mandrel into the well to fold the blank into a tray, the well being open at the bottom to allow the formed tray to be pushed through the well and onto a conveyor 8 for conveying the formed tray away from the machine.

Abstract: A side wall flap folding mechanism 30 for a carton forming machine including blank feeding means 50 operative to move the blanks B in a predetermined direction, a side flap folders 32 for folding side wall flaps st, located on opposite sides of the blanks B, about a predetermined fold line F and opposite to the direction of movement of the blanks, and means 31 for confining the folding of the flaps to the predetermined fold line F.

Abstract: A connecting device is disclosed for joining a trailer to a towing vehicle for substantial horizontal and vertical pivotal movements, as well as longitudinal rotation, of the trailer relative to the towing vehicle. A shaft added to one yoke of a pair of yokes comprising a universal joint is journalled in a block for rotation through 360 degrees. A similar shaft having a stop at its outer end and secured to the other yoke of the universal joint is inserted into a split block which functions as a quick-release clamping device upon closing of the block to secure the shaft. The bearing block preferably is affixed to the tongue or tow bar of the trailer and the split block is secured to the towing vehicle, the connecting device may be reversed end-for-end.