Importance

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Abstract

There is provided an apparatus and method for selectively coiling a transfer bar or allowing the bar to pass uncoiled through the apparatus. A frame supports a number of rollers which can transfer a bar in one direction, and conventional bend roller means are located above the rollers, adapted to apply a down curvature to a transfer bar. Pivotal ramp means upstream of the bend roller means can either direct a transfer bar through the bend roller means, or allow the transfer bar to pass along the rollers under the bend roller means. A displaceable roller downstream of the bend roller means and parallel with the rest of the rollers is provided, and is mounted for displacement normal to its axis in a direction having a vertical component, whereby the roller may be moved between a first position in which it lies even with the rest of the rollers, and a second position in which it is raised above the level of the rest of the rollers. The displaceable roller defines an angle with two rollers sequentially downstream from it, the vertex of the angle being at the adjacent downstream roller, whereby the angle changes from 180.degree. to an obtuse angle as the displaceable roller moves from its first to its second position. The displaceable roller in the second position defines, with the two sequentially downstream rollers, a cradle in which the convolutions of a coiling transfer bar can be contained. This cradle is capable of enlargement to accommodate the expanding coil, by lowering the displaceable roller toward its first position.

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First Claim