Patent ID: 6378729
Filing Date: 2002-04-30
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A constant-rate ampule feed device comprising:an ampule storage container for dispensing packaged ampules at a constant rate, said ampule storage container comprising a storage space which can store the packaged ampules that are packaged in a packaging material such that both ends of the packaging material are pressed flat, with central trunk portions of the packaged ampules arranged substantially parallel to each other, wherein a dispensing port for dispensing the packaged ampules is provided at one end of said storage space, and wherein the packaged ampules in said storage space are supported by the trunk portions of the packaged ampules with both flat ends thereof being maintained in a non-contact manner with respect to said storage space; and a dispensing means provided at said dispensing port of said ampule storage container for dispensing the packaged ampules one at a time, said dispensing means comprising a cylindrical rotor rotatable in one direction and a motor for driving said rotor, wherein said rotor is formed with a groove adapted to receive part of the packaged ampule, and a step for keeping the flat ends of the packaged ampules out of contact with the inner surface of the groove while contacting the trunk portion of the packaged ampules.