Can end transfer mechanism

A can end transfer mechanism for use in a highspeed machine includes a generally horizontal base with an end-receiving pocket and a pair of can end-engaging members disposed on opposite sides of the pocket. Each of the members has an inner end portion which projects into the pocket and is dimensioned and configured to engage an opposite side of an end, so as to cooperatively constrain it against rotation in the pocket. The engaging members are resiliently mounted on the base for movement along axes which are inclined toward the vertical axis of the pocket; this facilitates insertion and removal of an end into and from the pocket, while effectively maintaining the relative lateral position of an end when received therein. The mechanism is particularly useful where proper registry of work sequentially performed on the end tends to be of critical importance.