Abstract: An apparatus for performing an operation upon the end of a cylindrical workpiece consists of one or more tools mounted by a frame for rotation about a mounting axis along which the workpiece is moved. Each tool is mounted for longitudinal movement along a respective tool axis inclined inwardly toward the mounting axis in the engaging direction of movement of the workpiece and is engaged by the workpiece and pushed by it along the inclined axis. The longitudinal movement of the tool is thereby accompanied automatically by movement radially inward toward the mounting axis to perform the desired operation. Preferably a plurality of tools are provided each spring urged for movement in the direction opposite to that of the workpiece, and each freely rotatable about their tools axes, so that they gyrate about the workpiece. The tools can each be provided with a radial flange that is engaged by the workpiece in its movement to move the tool.

Abstract: A new dockboard is provided of the kind having a ramp assembly mounted by frame means, the ramp assembly being constituted by a lip plate pivotally connected to the front edge of a main plate, which has its rear edge pivotally connected to the dockboard frame means. The ramp assembly is moved upward by springs, such upward movement being restrained under the control of an operator by a ratchet device. Means for elevating the lip plate relative to the main plate comprise an arm pivoted to the underside of the lip plate and controlled in its movement by guidance means mounted on the frame means. The arm carries one latch member which cooperates with another latch member movably mounted by the frame means, preferably by means of a pendulous support member.