Importance

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Abstract

This relates to apparatus for effecting the closing of one end of a shirred casing strand. A strand is to be automatically presented to a previously developed closer in alignment therewith and under a preselected pressure. A transfer device is provided for receiving a doffed strand, transferring the strand transversely and then moving the strand longitudinally so that an end of the strand engages the closer. A gripping mechanism is provided which includes a pair of jaws having opposing clamp elements of a generally V-shape or angle cross section. The two jaws are simultaneously movable either together or apart and are urged apart by compression springs. A fluid cylinder actuated linkage urges the jaws towards closed positions. By varying the closing force, the clamp members can be first moved to a preset spacing providing a receptacle into which a doffed strand of a predetermined size may be readily slid. Then by increasing the the pressure of the cylinder, the strand may be sufficiently tightly gripped to prevent relative movement during the closing operation. The closer members are separated to release a closed strand at the end of the closing operation. By varying the pressure to the cylinder in the receptacle forming stage of the clamping members, the size of the receptacle may be adjusted in accordance with variations in size of casing strands to be handled. A control system for the automatic operation of the transfer device in conjunction with the closing device is provided.

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First Claim