Patent ID: 7565783
Filing Date: 2009-07-28
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for loading trays with vials, comprising; a. an input channel assembled to a platform; b. a discharge channel assembled to the platform downstream from the input channel and positioned for conveying the vials to a tray; and c. a pusher wheel mounted for rotation on the platform between the input and discharge channels for receiving the vials from the input channel and conveying the vials to the discharge channel, the pusher wheel comprising a series of radially extending fingers mounted slidingly in a series of cavities formed around the periphery of the pusher wheel, the fingers biased outwardly of the pusher wheel to enable the fingers to retract radially when contacting an obstruction; d. wherein the input channel, the pusher wheel for receiving and conveying the vials and the discharge channel are each formed with a profile contour configured for preventing the vials from tipping.