Abstract: A sprout cultivation device contains a watering member stacked on top of a multi-leveled close rack with an open bottom where a culture dish for sprouts is positioned at each level. The watering member contains a water basin with a mist maker inside and a heat exchanging element attached to the side of the water basin. A control element of the watering member periodically engages the mist maker to turn the water in the water basin into mist and the heat exchanging element to adjust the temperature of the water. A water refiller automatically refills the water basin from a water bottle until the water level of the water basin reaches a threshold. The mist descends down the levels of the rack to irrigate the sprouts in each culture dish.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for growing plants with controlled rates of nutrient and water input. The apparatus and method includes the use of a reservoir container and means to contain a growing medium. The apparatus is closed by a top wall having openings through which plants can grow with their roots enclosed in inverted cup-shaped barrier structures imbedded in a growing medium. At the time of the first planting there are multiple inverted cup-shaped barrier structures imbedded in the growing medium, but not all them are provided with seedlings during the first planting. Water and air is provided in a reservoir below the growing medium which has means for assisting the transfer of water from the reservoir into the growing medium. Pre-selected plant nutrients (e.g., N, K) are appropriately placed on the growing medium at the time of the initial planting and are used over the course of time for plant growth during successive plantings.

Abstract: An engineered turf management system utilizing a sand layer over a gravel layer, with irrigation by sub grade application of water and nutrients. A drainage system removes excess water, and an irrigation system applies water and nutrients to the bottom of the sand layer for distribution by capillary action.

Abstract: A downdraft gasifier is disclosed. The gasifier has a biomass feeding unit, a combustion chamber, and a separator unit. The biomass feeding unit accepts raw biomass materials and selectively feeds the materials into the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber provides means to induce pyrolysis, tar cracking, and char gasification of the raw biomass materials to produce gases and ash. The separator unit accepts the gases and ash from the combustion chamber and separates the gases from the ash.

Abstract: Carbon-containing tail gases and pollutants in a coal-to-liquid hydrocarbon production process, or other liquid fuel production process, may be reacted to produce additional synthesis gas which may be used to produce liquid fuels and hydrocarbons or which may be recycled within the liquid fuel production process to improve conversion of carbon to liquid fuels or hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A door window system is provided. In at least one embodiment, the door window system includes a core module, window track, a window track glass guide operatively engaged with the window track to be guided along the profile of the window track, a bracket integrally formed on the core module, and a pulley attached to the bracket wherein the pulley is in communication with a cable that is attached to the window track glass guide.

Abstract: A drive device with override function for a moving device in motor vehicles comprises a drive element 2, an output element 3 with rotationally symmetrical surface connected to the moving device, and a connecting device, which under a drive-side load transmits a drive torque to the output element 3 and in the absence of the drive-side load releases the output element 3, and a carrier wrap spring 4, which is operatively connected to the drive element 2 and can be brought into engagement with the rotationally symmetrical surface of the output element 3, together with a control element 6, 8, 91, 92, which under a drive-side load braces the carrier wrap spring 4 with the rotationally symmetrical surface of the output element 3 and in the absence of the drive-side load releases the bracing of the carrier element 4 with the rotationally symmetrical surface of the drive element 3.

Abstract: Methods, assemblies and apparatus related to a mid-travel glass load of full drop glass into a lift plate involve use of a support pin traversing a carrier plate to immobilize the lift plate at a mid-travel position. When the lift plate is properly aligned at the mid-travel position, pin extensions of the support pin extend through holes in the carrier plate and lodge in wells in the lift plate. Removal of the pin extensions from the wells mobilizes the lift plate again. One or more embodiments may include various molded features on the carrier plate to stabilize, support and guide the support pin.

Abstract: A gate latch with a two-way, horizontally rotating and self-latching operation is provided. The gate latch is mounted to a fence post or gate door post. A rotatable catch extends from the gate latch and is aligned in a closed position when the gate door is shut wherein the catch partially encloses a gate door or fence post when closed. The catch is latched or locked in place when aligned in the closed position in order to prevent the gate door from opening. Engaging a release switch allows the catch to rotate in a horizontal plane in either direction along an arc relative to the closed position (i.e., ‘two-way’ rotation). The catch remains in the open position until rotated to the closed position or the gate door is shut. The catch is automatically latched or locked into the closed position (i.e., self-latching) until the release switch is engaged. Optional locking mechanisms can prevent the operation of the release switch.

Abstract: A method for temporarily securing superabrasive particles to a substrate such as a tool substrate or a growth precursor and articles formed therefrom are provided. The method can include applying an array of adhesive droplets onto at least a portion of a substrate in accordance with a predetermined pattern. The pattern may be uniform grid equally spacing each adhesive droplet. The adhesive droplets can be suitable to each secure only a single superabrasive particle. The method may further include adhering a single superabrasive particle to each adhesive droplet. As a result of the method can yield a tool substrate and grow precursor having enhance particle growth and wear properties.

Abstract: A portable light emitting stage component and portable stage system. The stage components having a deck supported by a support portion. The support portion includes at least one light producing element arranged and disposed to direct light through the deck. The support portion further includes at least one connector having at least one of a latch member and a receiving member. The latch member has features that clampingly secure stage components together when engaged with features of a receiving member to form a substantially planar surface made up of a plurality of decks.

Abstract: A gutter guard comprises an elongate, perforated planar portion having a first longitudinal edge, a second longitudinal edge, and a plurality of apertures extending therethrough. A flange extends along the first longitudinal edge of the perforated planar portion. A sealing member extends along the first longitudinal edge of the perforated planar portion. The sealing member is angularly spaced-apart from the flange. A pair of spaced-apart side walls extend along the second longitudinal edge of the perforated planar portion. The side walls define a channel therebetween. A lip extends along a free edge of one of the side walls.

Abstract: The invention relates to a security manhole that is secured to the mouth of an underground pipe (4) including an edge (2) and a hinged cover (5) having rising cylinders (6), a peripheral sealing gasket (30) being provided for. The cover (5) includes an opening provided with a screw fixed lid (8), one of the screws compresses a first electrical contact (9) sending a warning signal to a control centre. Underneath the lid is provided a turning part (10) pulling in an angular fashion a closing handle (14) provided onto the edge. In the closed position, said handle (14) is located on top of the plate (18) integral with said edge (5), both having an access ramp providing automatic pre-closing. The closing position is provided through a second electrical contact (19). In the opening position, the closing handle (14) is retained by retention pawl (15) hinged to the edge (2). Release is provided through a screw (21) fixed to the cover (5) upon contact with said retention pawl (15).

Abstract: A sound attenuation enclosure comprising a plurality of panels positioned side by side one another forming an enclosure about an operating device that generates noise. The panels are supported by a plurality of columns, and are separable from the columns so the enclosure and its components are transportable. The panels and columns may have an enclosed inner chamber filled with a sound retardant material.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing consumer-installed decorations (10) for home or office furnishings (F). One embodiment of the invention may be sold at a retail store. The consumer may purchase a set of one or more decorations or enhancing components (10), which comprise an ornamental component (12) and a mounting component (14). The consumer then installs the decorations (10) at home or in the office, without special tools and without requiring the services of a contractor. The decorations (10) may be installed on any generally planar structure or furnishing (F). Examples of these furnishings (F) include, but are not limited to, a mirror (M), a door (D), a picture frame (PF), a kitchen cabinet door (KC), a cubicle wall or divider (CW), a computer monitor, a table top or any other piece of furniture, fixture, appliance, hardware or item that may be found in a home or office.

Abstract: A mounting bracket to be used in connection with securing sunshades to a wall mullion. The mounting bracket including a pair of bracket elements matingly engageable with each other with one bracket element being securable to one mounting arm of one of the sunshades and the other bracket element being securable to one mounting arm of an other of the sunshades and with each bracket element being removably securable to the mullion, such that each bracket element is disengageable from the other bracket and removable from the mullion. A plurality of the mounting brackets may be used to secure a plurality of the sunshades in a side-by-side manner to a plurality of wall mullions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sterilization plant for the sterilization of surgical instruments, the plant comprising at least one original building (1) having at least one first process line that extends, at least partly, essentially parallel to a first one (2) of the essentially limiting external walls (2, 3, 4, 5) of said original building (1), the sterilization plant further comprising at least one extension module (31) located next to and, at least partly, essentially parallel to said first external wall (2). The present invention also relates to an extension module (31) and a method of increasing the capacity of a sterilization plant.

Abstract: A process of pre-applying a vapor, water and ice layer to a sheathing panel before the sheathing panel is assembled onto rafters of a roof is disclosed, comprising the steps of positioning a face of the sheathing panel for accessibility, removing a plastic film from the vapor, water and ice layer, thereby exposing an adhesive surface of the vapor, water and ice layer, joining the adhesive surface of the vapor, and water and ice layer to the face of the sheathing panel to form an assembly, thereafter, transporting the assembly to the roof, and securing the assembly to the rafters of the roof.

Abstract: The present invention is a system of building materials with surface regions destined for joint formation that are treated with an adhesive partially comprised of a mixture of epoxy resin (96.0-99.9 parts) and hardener (4.0-0.1 parts), such that the epoxy resin/hardener mixture constitutes 50-100% of the adhesive. In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive may have epoxy resin (96.0-99.9 parts) such that the epoxy resin constitutes 45-95% of the adhesive. The remainder of the adhesive may be one or more of the following: hardeners, plasticizing agents, diluents, thickeners, fillers, colorants, opacifying agents, preservatives, and surfactants.

Abstract: An adjustable connector with a rounded, concave seat and matching washer, a connection and a method of making a connection that ties a first building structural member to a second building structural member in conjunction with fastener means and an anchor member, especially a girder truss to the supporting wall in conjunction with screws and an anchor rod.

Abstract: An earthquake resistant building foundation includes a receptacle having a number of apertures each for slidably receiving a shaft, one or more spring members disposed below the receptacle for cushioning a vertical force, and a number of spring members engaged with the shafts for lateral cushioning purposes. A number of lateral cushioning devices are attached to the shafts and each has a casing secured to the shaft, a cover slidably engaged onto the casing, and one or more spring members engaged between the casing and the cover for cushioning between the casing and the cover and for forming a two-stage compressing or cushioning structure.

Abstract: A shock suppressor has a first base, a second base, a sliding holder assembly and a connecting device. The second base is parallel to the first base. The connecting device is slidably mounted between the first base and second base to connect the first and second bases. The first base abuts against the connecting device in a curved contact surface to provide a first sliding mechanism in multiple directions. The second base abuts against the connecting device to provide a second sliding mechanism in a unidirection. The sliding holder assembly is mounted between the connecting device and at least one of the bases in a universal contacting manner.

Abstract: A roof of a building is provided. The roof comprises a roof frame, a layer of curved roof cover elements (e.g., tiles) above the roof frame, and a solar panel secured to one or more of the roof cover elements. The solar panel substantially conforms to one or more curved surfaces of the one or more roof cover elements. Another aspect provides a roof comprising a roof frame, a layer of curved roof cover elements (e.g., tiles) above the roof frame, a vent member within the roof cover element layer, and a solar panel. The vent member has a curved surface and is sized and shaped to mimic the appearance of one or more of the roof cover elements. The vent member also has an opening allowing a ventilation airflow from the building interior toward an airspace above the vent member and the roof cover element layer. The solar panel is secured to and substantially conforms to the curved surface of the vent member.

Abstract: A vent pipe covering system for efficiently forming a seal between a vent pipe structure and a supporting structure. The vent pipe covering system generally includes a base, a body extending from the base and a coupler extending from the body opposite the base. The base includes a first opening and the body includes a passageway, wherein the passageway longitudinally extends through the body and interconnects with the first opening. The coupler includes a retaining cavity to extend over an outermost end of a pipe extending through the passageway and the first opening, wherein the body and passageway may expand and retract to accommodate various length pipes via an expandable portion of the body.

Abstract: A roof ventilation for a roof having roof tiles with air channels is disclosed. The roof includes a roof supporting structure, a plurality of roof tiles, and at least one vent tile. The plurality of roof tiles reside over the roof supporting structure. The roof tiles include air channels formed therethrough which are in ventilating communication with one another. The least one vent tile resides over the roof supporting structure. Each of the at least one vent tile includes a first upper plate, a second upper plate, and a lower plate. The first and second upper plates are spaced apart from each other, forming a ventilating access. The second upper plate has a first opening and the lower plate has a second opening. The first opening is in ventilating communication with the second opening and with at least one of the air channels. The ventilating access and the first and second openings together permit airflow between regions above and below the roof.

Abstract: The fire-resistant window of fire resistance class E according to DIN EN 357 has a window frame system (1, 6) and at least one thermally or chemically pre-stressed monolithic fire-resistant glass pane (2) mounted in the window frame system (1, 6). The at least one thermally or chemically pre-stressed monolithic fire-resistant glass pane (2) is made of a high-temperature-melting aluminosilicate glass with a softening point (log ?=7.6) above 875° C., wherein ? is the viscosity, and with a bending strength of over 100 N/mm2. The glass pane (2) is also substantially impermeable to ultraviolet radiation.

Abstract: A precast concrete wall panel molding system for fabricating a wall shell and a plurality of ribs and beams. A precast concrete wall panel molding system with facilities for incorporating door and window frames. A ductile panel end connector for attaching panels one to another whether in parallel or angled as in inside or outside corners. A ductile panel end connector for attaching panels to columns. A wall anchor/shear plate with post-tensioning brace plate. A hybrid precast/cast-in-place special moment resisting shear wall/special moment resisting frame reinforced concrete building system for regions of potential seismic activity. A prescriptive method building system for composite structural building assemblies with conventional wood and light-gauge steel framing, structural steel, and other building code approved and tested building systems, building components, building panel systems, building roofing systems, modular and manufactured buildings, and building electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems.

Abstract: A cornice for a window includes a decorative insert at least partially received by a cutout in the cornice. The insert includes edges and hook members depending from at least one of the edges. The cutout has a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the shape of the insert and includes at least one edge corresponding to an edge of the insert. The corresponding edges are abutted and adhesively attached to one another, and the hook members are coupled to the cornice. The cornice can be upholstered with any desired fabric, and the insert generally includes stained and/or cut or beveled decorative glass such that light behind the cornice also shines through the decorative glass.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing a foundation for a building structure wherein the foundation comprises a low density material, such as polystyrene, either partially or fully encapsulated by a high structure material, such as concrete. The apparatus is adapted so that the net density of the foundation is less than that of water, allowing the foundation to float when surrounded by water. The density of the foundation may be adapted so that a building placed on the foundation will be lifted above floodwaters by the foundation.

Abstract: A waterproof gate assembly structure is constituted by a sheathing layer, a nozzle, an inflatable inner casing, iron pieces, and screw-holes, wherein the sheathing layer is fixed on a wall by transfixing fixing screws into the screw-holes, small holes, and pads, and an exterior of the sheathing layer is provided with the nozzle which is extended to the inflatable inner casing in the sheathing layer. Gas can be filled into the inflatable inner casing through the nozzle, until it is full, such that an unfilled space can be more tightly filled, thereby achieving an effective waterproof function. In addition, the sheathing layer is also provided with locking elements for taking out and replacing the inflatable inner casing.

Abstract: A wall panel system having a wall panel frame and three-dimensional cover tiles is provided. Such cover tiles overlie an open interior frame region and demountably engage the panel frame. These cover tiles are provided with a relatively shallow thickness but are formed with various formations including storage pockets and the like which allow office items and other articles to be stored directly in the cover tile as opposed to add-on components which mount over the face of a conventional planar cover tile.

Abstract: A tie system is provided for use with a wall form for a cementitious backup wall and for use with a wall tie to connect between the cementitious backup wall and a veneer. The tie system includes a backup wall connector and a form connector. The form connector is connectable to the form and secures the backup wall connector in position as the wall form is filled.

Abstract: A floor panel assembly, system, and method for assembling a floor panel assembly and one or more floor beams are provided. A floor panel assembly may include a floor panel comprising a pair of opposed surfaces, wherein the floor panel includes at least one key hole slot defined in one of the opposed surfaces. The assembly also includes at least one seat track positioned between the opposed surfaces, wherein the seat track comprises at least one key hole slot defined therein that is substantially aligned with a respective key hole slot defined in the floor panel. In addition, the assembly includes at least one fastener assembly comprising a fastener configured to be positioned through a respective key hole slot defined in the floor panel and the seat track.

Abstract: A roof or wall covering comprising a plurality of horizontal courses of molded plastic panels each formed with a single row of simulated shake shingles. The panels have a continuous upper interlock flange that facilitates inner-engagement of the panels of overlying courses without cumbersome handling of numerous small interlock fingers which can be missed during installation. Cooperating detents are provided between the overlying lower and upper marginal edge regions which facilitate proper positioning of the panels and which support the weight of the panel during securement to a wall surface. A bottom interlock flange is supported transversely across a rear side of the panel by vertically-spaced support plates which facilitate both liquid drainage and air circulation through the installed wall covering. In the preferred embodiment, the panels in alternate courses are identically formed with different shake patterns for enhancing the natural appearance of the wall covering.

Abstract: A shingle includes a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, an upper end, a lower end, a first side, and a second side. The body has a width defined as the distance between the first and second sides and a length defined by the distance between the upper and lower ends. In a preferred embodiment, the shingle also includes a water diverter tab attached to the first side for channeling water onto the top surface of a lower adjacent shingle, and a recess adjacent to the second side for receiving the water diverter tab of a laterally adjacent shingle in an interlocking manner. An anchor tab attached to the second side secures the lower ends of adjacent, interlocked shingles.

Abstract: A molded plastic panel and a molded plastic panel assembly including at least two molded panels are described. Each panel includes a center portion (14) that is positioned between and which is continuous with a first external portion (17) and a second external portion (20). The center portion (14) has a plurality of plastic center reinforcing structures (31) that define a plurality of center portion apertures (34). Each of the first and second external portions include reinforcing structures (49, 79) having sidewalls (52, 82) having interior surfaces (55, 85) that define a plurality of external portion apertures (61, 94). The exterior surfaces (58, 88) of sidewalls of neighboring reinforcing structures together define a plurality of external portion recesses (64, 98) that are dimensioned to receive extensions from a separate article, thereby forming interlocks there-between. With the panel assembly (3) of the present invention, at least two molded panels (e.g.

Abstract: A masonry system having masonry elements which can be laid one on top of the other. Each masonry element has at least one spacer to which two panels are fastened.

Abstract: An improved, high strength construction system that uses post tensioning. It is comprised of a series of interconnected, super heavy duty hollow core blocks 102 with minimal ducts 103, a series of tendons 105, and a plurality of anchors or plates 104 with additional features. The system 101 is configured with the plurality of adjacent blocks 102 contiguous and touching one another and demountably coupled to each other by means of the tendons 105 and anchors 103. The unique features include a strong, durable full plate 104 and bolt 105 both of which may be treated for corrosion resistance. This new coupling results in a structure that is far stronger than an ordinary block structure built with mortar and standard reinforcing. The SYSTEM has more predictable and controlled strength which is stronger than most reinforced concrete systems.

Abstract: Devices for customizing window and/or door surrounds (1) wherein a trowel (10) having a predetermined profile (12) and a roller having predetermined designs (20) are used. The trowel (10) includes a first and second edge (11) and predetermined profile (12) located between the trowel edges (11) for placement of the trowel (10) against edges (9) of a surround grid (6) of a window and/or door surround (1) to create a profile on the surround (1). The profile (12) may be convex, concave or of any other shape. The roller (15) includes a handle (17) and a head (16) wherein the head (16) includes a predetermined design (20) located thereon. By using the devices of the present invention, decorative and distinctive window and/or door surrounds (1) are created.

Abstract: A method for shaping concrete blocks and/or concrete slabs of various formats and sizes. The shaping taking place in concrete-filled molds with or without additional facing concrete. Dies or matrices corresponding to the block surface or slab surface have recesses or projections for impressing the surfaces. The concrete blocks or concrete slabs are then removed from the molds before setting and are cured externally and the surfaces are further worked in a subsequent operation. The recesses formed are grooves having parallel, oblique, planar or curved walls and/or roots and the projections being tooth strips having parallel, oblique, planar or curved walls and/or tips. The grooves and/or tooth strips extend over the entire surface of the dies and consequently over the entire surface of the concrete blocks or concrete slabs. In a subsequent operation the surfaces are blasted with liquids or solids. A final step may include application of a coating containing acrylate resin.

Abstract: A bamboo framework used to transfer load and attach face panels for a building. The framework consists of spaced bamboo culms, flexible inner rings that wrap around the bamboo culms, middle connectors to attach face panels, end connectors to attach face panels and transfer load from framework to support structures, and three types of additional metal connectors to strengthen the framework.

Abstract: A net derucking rectifier system is described. The system has a stuffer, a product horn having an upstream end and a downstream end, the upstream end mounted to the stuffer, a netting tube having an upstream end and a downstream end, the netting tube removably mounted coaxially over the product horn and having a tubular netting shirred thereon, a bracket mounted coaxially to the netting tube and having a plurality of fingers pointing radially inward to grip the netting, the bracket movable between a first position near the upstream end and a second position near the downstream end, the fingers biased to grip the netting when the bracket is moved from the first position to the second position and not to grip the netting when the bracket is moved from the second position to the first position, and a clipper located adjacent the distal end of the netting tube.

Abstract: A wrapping device is mounted at an exterior of a bale forming chamber of a large round baler and includes two wrapping material supply rolls comprised, if desired, of two types of wrapping material, which may optionally be brought together and introduced through an inlet of the bale forming chamber. In this way, it is possible, for example, to supply film with a netting in order both to bind and protect the bale.

Abstract: A method of forming a reclosable fastener track having a slider. The process provides a reclosable fastener track, forms a slit in the fastener track, attaches a slider to the fastener track, seals the slit in the fastener track after the slider attaches, and creates a first and a second end stop on the track.

Abstract: Device for closing bags for containing powder or granular materials, suitable for installation within a belt, roller or similar line for conveying bags, including at least one sealing head (52) and a conveyor member (27) for feeding the bags (60) to the sealing head (52), characterised in that the sealing head (52) presents drive elements (51, 53, 54, 55) causing it to advance, during the sealing process, at the same speed as the conveyor member to enable it to seal a bag (60) while the conveyor member is moving.

Abstract: In a device with a plurality of holding units, each holding unit has a leading prong and a rear prong resiliently kept closed for holding a box in vertical orientation. The holding units are arranged spaced out on an operating group for intermittent motion through work stations for inserting products into the boxes. The rear prong can be moved away from the leading prong by a catching pawl for introducing a box into the opened holding unit, at an inlet station, and for removing the box in a discharge station, situated downstream. This avoids rubbing between the prongs and the box walls that could damage the precious ornamental patterns applied to the box.

Abstract: An apparatus in one example has: a burst functionality whereby a foremost coupon is separated from a next coupon of a continuous web of coupons; a staging functionality whereby the separated foremost coupon is moved to a staging position; and an insertion functionality whereby the first coupon is inserted into a container only after the next coupon is separated from the continuous web.

Abstract: An apparatus, machine and method for opening a flexible pouch includes a pair of opposed side grippers each holding a side of the pouch. A pair of opposed panel grippers each hold an upper edge of the pouch. The side grippers are displaced inwardly towards each other and the panel grippers are displaced outwardly away from each other to partially open the pouch. A pair of pouch opening fingers are displaceable between a raised position above the pouch and a lowered position within the pouch. The pouch opening fingers are open in the raised position and closed after lowered into the lowered position, to grip the wall of the pouch. The pair of pouch opening fingers move together a predetermined distance in an outboard direction to fully separate the pouch walls.

Abstract: A commercially viable paper wrapped foam cup comprising a taper portion that prevents the shrinkage-induced curling from interfering with the un-nesting of nested paper wrapped foam cups. The paper wrapped cup further comprises a fillet for strengthening the cup foot to retard shrinkage-induced curling of the foot. The paper wrapper has abutting to overlapping opposing ends to completely hide the foam cup to enhance the visual appearance of the cup. The overlapping portions of the paper wrapper are not bonded to each other to prevent wrinkling of the paper wrapper as the cup shrinks. A machine and corresponding method provide for automatically supplying foam cups and paper wrappers, wrapping the paper wrapped cup, and stacking the wrapped cups.

Abstract: A system (10) for automatically dispensing a strip of dunnage to a container (14) includes a dispenser (12) having an outlet (92) from which the dispenser can feed a length of a strip of dunnage lengthwise, a container support (36) for supporting a container (14) thereon, and a pusher device (114) at the outlet (92) for pushing, more particularly propelling, a trailing end of the strip of dunnage from the outlet (92) toward the container support (36). The outlet (92) is aligned with the container support (36). Thus the outlet (92) is positioned relative to a container (14) such that the strip will curl or fold back and forth upon itself within the confines of the container (14) as it is being fed from the outlet (92). A container closer (120, 130 and 32) automatically closes the flaps (80 and 82) of the container (14).