Patent ID: 8297151
Filing Date: 2012-10-30
Classification: B67B,G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for mechanical actuation of a vial lid between an open and closed state, comprising: a base, a vial alignment member extending vertically from said base for aligning a vial in a substantially vertical position, a tab engagement member for engaging said vial at a tab, a motor, and a linkage for connecting the motor to the tab engagement member, said linkage further comprising a first linkage member attached to said motor at a proximal end and extending radially outward from said motor to a distal end, and a second linkage member attached to said first linkage member at said distal end, said second linkage member further attached to a lid support member, wherein said tab engagement member is disposed along said linkage for providing an amount of leverage sufficient to open a tab and a lid of said vial; wherein said motor and linkage are adapted to close the lid of the vial; and wherein said motor and linkage are adapted to close the tab of the vial.