Abstract: A quick change mounting for each plug assist in an array of plug assists, carried by a base plate in a thermoformer apparatus includes a boss projecting from an anchor piece attached to the base plate and a base piece attached to each plug assist, each base having a bore slidably receiving a boss. Each boss has a cross pin with projecting ends each which being received in respective axial slot in the associated base piece, a circumferential clearance space extending from the end of each axial slot allowing rotation of the plug assist, the pin ends each releasably held at the end of a circumferential space by a detent.

Abstract: Compartmented food service articles with sharp angular junctions are thermoformed utilizing a plug-assisted thermoforming process. The plug is employed in connection with a thermoforming mold having a plurality of rib portions which project axially from a substantially planar mold surface of the thermoforming mold, and which rib portions define a plurality of angular junctions with the substantially planar mold surface. The plug includes a plurality of rib relief portions positioned and configured to fit about the rib portions of the mold in a forming operation at an axial clearance distance of about 0.125 inches or less from the angular junction of the rib portions of the mold with the substantially planar mold surface.

Abstract: Stackable servingware is provided with repeating flange patterns configured to resist nesting and taper lock. The patterns include a first pattern which is chiral with respect to a second pattern such that the patterns are not superimposable on one another. Preferably, the servingware is packaged in alternating sequence such that each article in a stack has a flange pattern which mirrors the flange pattern of adjacent articles.

Abstract: A curling screw adjustment mechanism for changing the radial spacing of the curling screws of a lip curling machine forming a lip on a thermoformed plastic container such as a cup, in which the curling screws are each mounted on separate interlinked pivoted mounting plates which are moved in unison by adjustments of a threaded rod. The curling screws are also cooled by indirect contact with a cooling liquid circulated through separate aluminum arbors on which the stainless steel curling screws are mounted to allow changing the curling screws without spillage of coolant.

Abstract: A feed roller mechanism for a lip rolling machine for thermoformed containers, in which simultaneous adjustment of both the roller feed angle and the trim diameter are each carried out using separate systems of slides and linkages.

Abstract: A lip rolling machine for thermoformed containers in which the rim heating oven is mounted to be swingable out of its operative position for ready access to the machine components for servicing or set up. The oven is also readily detachable to be removed for convenient servicing of the oven. Guide rod adjustment mechanisms are provided for each end of the guide rods allowing the guide rod spacing at each end to be adjusted by radial in unison movement of the ends by a series of pivoting interlinked arms moved by a handle integral with one arm in each series. A stop arrangement including a threaded rod, and Bridgeport clamps positively secures each handle in an adjusted position. An adjustable transition conveyor is provided at the entrance of the machine with one end raisable by pivoting about a drive pulley axis at the other end to accommodate different sizes of containers.