PATENT ABSTRACT
An inventive method, system and apparatus are provided for syringe handling, and more particularly, for syringe labeling, filling and capping operations. To facilitate syringe handling, an inventive apparatus includes a plurality of syringe bodies interconnected in a predetermined orientation by a belt. Such belt may be of pliable construction and may define a predetermined spacing in between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies, such predetermined spacing corresponding with a distance between holders provided in a handling apparatus. The syringe handling apparatus may provide for the placement of contents-related information on belt segments between adjacent syringe bodies and for separating the belt segments, wherein a flap is left interconnected to each syringe body. The syringe handling apparatus may alternatively or also provide for automated filling of the syringe bodies wherein cap removal, filling and cap replacement operations are completed free from manual handling.

PATENT DESCRIPTION
RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to prior U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 60/224,136, filed Aug. 10, 2000, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    The present invention generally relates to the handling of syringes, and is particularly apt for use in automated syringe handling operations, such as syringe filling, labeling and capping operations.  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0003]    Each year countless syringes are used throughout the world by the healthcare industry for the administration of liquid medications to humans and animals with hypodermic needles or infusion catheters, as well as for delivery of oral and topical medications. Some medications provided by pharmaceutical manufacturers are prepared, stored, and shipped as powders, crystals, or some other solid form due to the lack of stability in solution. These medications are then reconstituted with liquid, such as water or some other suitable liquid solvent. For one or several administrations of a medication, the manual filling of the syringes with reconstituted liquid medication is a small chore. However, larger health care institutions often administer medications in syringes to hundreds of patients per day, thus requiring the rather large chore of filling hundreds of syringes with medications and labeling each filled syringe to show the contents, strength, and fill dates, usually under the direction of a qualified pharmacist. Healthcare providers have found that preparing (e.g. filling and labeling) the quantities of syringes needed has many efficiencies and other advantages when it is done in batches.  
           [0004]    In the later regard, batch preparation may be particularly preferred for syringes carrying medications that are not stable in liquid form and are therefore frozen after preparation to maintain acceptable stability. Further, the task of maintaining sterility in the transfer of liquid from containers provided by pharmaceutical manufacturers to pre-sterilized syringes may be enhanced by batch completion in controlled environments. Also, safety and overall reliability may improve when syringes are prepared in batches by pharmacy personnel or others who are dedicated to and well-trained for the task.  
           [0005]    Currently, syringe preparation typically entails a number of separate operations with individual syringe handling. For example, systems used today fill syringes with dispensing pumps that are capable of delivering exact quantities of fluids but that require individual handling of each syringe. Peristaltic pumps that can be accurately calibrated, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,024,347, are often used. In such arrangements, The syringe caps are packaged so that sterility can be maintained in the capping procedure. The caps are located in trays where each cap is positioned so that the person doing the filling can manually place the tip of the syringe into the cap without touching or holding the cap. Labeling of the syringes has been done using a label dispenser similar to those used for applying pricing labels to grocery or other similar products.  
           [0006]    With smaller syringes there are sometimes problems with getting sufficient label information on the syringe without covering over the syringe graduations or blocking the view of the medication. To overcome this, the labels are often applied by hand with the label wrapped around the syringe with most of the label extending from the syringe to form a flag.  
           [0007]    Silicone lubricants are used in syringe manufacturing to provide lubrication for lowering the frictional force in movement of the syringe plunger. These silicone lubricants have a characteristic of migrating over all surfaces. Often, this migration causes difficulties in getting pressure sensitive labels to stay in place. This has caused users to use a clear plastic tape to wrap completely around the syringe and the label.  
           [0008]    Efforts to automate hospital or clinic-based syringe preparation have been made, but most systems have automated only portions of the process and still require human intervention during critical stages of the process. In one such system, caps are pre-positioned in a cartridge holder. The syringes are also provided in a cartridge where each syringe is oriented. The machine to perform the filling and capping function requires an operator to load the cartridges of caps and syringes. The filling is done with a calibrated peristaltic pump. The machine fills each syringe and places a cap. The labeling is done separately by a labeling machine that is commercially available.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0009]    In view of the foregoing, a broad objective of the present invention is to provide a method, system and apparatus for enhanced syringe handling. A closely related objective is to facilitate automated syringe handling for various operations, such as syringe filling, labeling and capping.  
           [0010]    Another objective of the present invention is to provide a syringe handling approach that facilitates the maintenance of sterility.  
           [0011]    An additional objective of the present invention is to provide an improved syringe filling and capping approach.  
           [0012]    Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an improved approach for syringe labeling.  
           [0013]    In addressing one or more of the above objectives, the present inventors have recognized that significant benefits may be realized by interconnecting multiple syringe bodies to facilitate handling of the same. More particularly, such interconnection allows multiple syringes to be commonly oriented for packaging and/or automated preparation operations.  
           [0014]    In one aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided that includes a plurality of syringe bodies, e.g. each comprising a barrel, and a belt fixedly connected to (e.g. adhered to or shrink-wrapped upon) each of the syringe bodies. Each syringe body may further include a plunger at least partially disposed in an open end of the barrel and a removable cap disposed on a dispensing end of the barrel. Of importance, the belt is provided to both interconnect the plurality of syringe bodies and position the same in a predetermined orientation.  
           [0015]    In the later regard, and by way of primary example, the dispensing ends of the syringe body barrels may be oriented to extend in a common direction. In addition, the barrels of adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies may be disposed in side-by-side, series relation. Further, the belt may be provided to define a predetermined spacing between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies, such spacing preferably being equidistance throughout a given assembly to accommodate ready positioning in holders adapted for automated operations, as will be further described.  
           [0016]    To facilitate handling, production and packaging, the belt may be of a pliable construction. Further, the belt may be advantageously constructed for ready separation in automated labeling operations, as described hereinbelow. In this regard, it is advantageous for the belt to be of a predetermined length between adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies, such predetermined length defining belt segments that are sufficient for the placement of contents information thereupon(e.g. via the application of a label thereto or direct printing thereupon).  
           [0017]    Preferably, the belt is interconnected to each of the syringe body barrels. In this regard, the barrels maybe of a common length, wherein the belt is fixedly connected to the barrels along a common portion of the length of each. In addition, the belt may advantageously be of a width that exceeds a majority of a length of each of the barrels. Further, the belt may comprise a first portion that extends between adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies, and a second portion that extends about at least a portion of each of the syringe body barrels. Preferably, the second portion adhesively engages the syringe body barrels and may be substantially transparent to facilitate observation of the volumetric contents within and markings on the syringe barrels.  
           [0018]    In one approach, the belt may be defined by opposing layers adjoined in face-to-face relation between adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies and wrapped about opposing sides of the barrels of each of the syringe bodies. At least one of the opposing layers may be substantially transparent to allow for visual determination of volumetric contents and amount. As may be appreciated, a clear pliable plastic material may be utilized for easy and low-cost construction of the belt.  
           [0019]    As noted, each syringe body of the inventive apparatus may typically include a plunger and cap. In this regard, the barrel, inserted plunger and applied cap may preferably be assembled under low bioburden environment conditions, such as a class 100,000 or lower clean room. Further, and of importance, the plurality of interconnected syringe bodies should preferably be packaged (e.g. in a shipment container) and thereafter sterilized (e.g. via gamma radiation) to achieve terminal sterilization.  
           [0020]    To facilitate the maintenance of a clean internal volume, yet allow for syringe filling, the caps utilized on syringe bodies should preferably engage dispensing ends of the barrels in a mating fashion. By way of primary example, each cap may include an inner member matingly positionable within or about a fluid port of the barrel dispensing end, and an outer member matingly positionable about an outer flange of the barrel dispensing end.  
           [0021]    In another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for producing an assembly of syringe bodies. The inventive method includes the steps of positioning a plurality of syringe bodies in a predetermined relative orientation, and disposing opposing layers of material about opposing sides of the syringe bodies and in face-to-face relation between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies. As may be appreciated, the inventive method defines an assembly comprising a belt that interconnects and orients a plurality of syringe bodies to facilitate handling as previously described.  
           [0022]    In an additional more general aspect of the present invention, an overall method and apparatus for handling a plurality of syringe bodies is provided. Such method comprises the steps of positioning a plurality of syringe bodies in a predetermined orientation, and interconnecting a belt to each of the plurality of syringe bodies in said predetermined orientation. The method may further comprise the step of positioning the plurality of syringe bodies into a plurality of holders for at least one production operation. To facilitate such positioning, the belt may advantageously define a predetermined spacing between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies, wherein the holders are separated by a distance that corresponds with the predetermined spacing between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies. Further, where the belt is constructed of a pliable material, the method may include the step of successively suspending, or hanging, adjacent ones of the syringe bodies so as to position the same for receipt by a holder.  
           [0023]    Numerous automated production operations may be facilitated by the disclosed handling method, wherein the holders may be moved along a predetermined path during such operations. Of particular note, one or all of the following production operations may be automated utilizing the invention:  
           [0024]    filling the plurality of syringe bodies with a predetermined fluid (e.g. reconstituted medication);  
           [0025]    uncapping and/or recapping the plurality of syringe bodies in conjunction with filling; and  
           [0026]    labeling the plurality of the syringe bodies to indicate the contents thereof.  
           [0027]    Each of these production operations will be further described hereinbelow.  
           [0028]    In relation to the inventive apparatus for handling a plurality of syringe bodies, it should be appreciated that it is particularly advantageous for the syringe bodies to be interconnected in series by a belt in a predetermined orientation and with a predetermined spacing therebetween. In the latter regard, the inventive apparatus may comprise a plurality of holders for holding the of syringe bodies, such holders being separated by a distance corresponding with the predetermined spacing.  
           [0029]    The apparatus may further include a drive for moving the holders along a predetermined path. In this regard, the holders may be oriented so as to locate adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies in substantial parallel relation, wherein the dispensing and opposing ends of the syringe bodies extend outwardly from and in a common orientation relative to the predetermined path. In turn, at least one workstation may be provided having a support member disposed to move towards and away from the dispensing ends of the syringe bodies. By way of primary example, such workstations may be provided for automated filling and/or automated cap removal/replacement, free from manual handling requirements.  
           [0030]    Further, one or more workstations may be provided with a support member disposed to move towards and away from an outward facing surface of the belt at locations between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies. Such workstations may provide for automated separation of the belt between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies and/or automated printing of contents information on belt segments located between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies.  
           [0031]    In a further aspect of the present invention a method and apparatus is provided for filling syringe bodies. In the inventive method, the filling of each syringe body entails the step of holding the syringe body in at least one holder and the further steps of removing a cap from, filling and replacing the cap back on the syringe body during the holding step. As may be appreciated, completion of the removing, filling and replacing steps while the syringe body is being held by at least one holder yields a significant handling advantage in that manual manipulation of a syringe body may be avoided.  
           [0032]    The filling method may further include, for each syringe body, the steps of placing the cap on the dispensing end of the syringe body prior to the holding step, and packaging the syringe body in a container (e.g. for bulk shipment with other syringe bodies) and unpackaging the syringe body from the container after the placing step and prior to the holding step. Such sequencing allows for cap placement and packaging in a production location, followed by shipment to a remote location for unpackaging and completion of the filling method. Further in this regard, the method may include the important step of sterilizing syringe bodies after packaging (e.g. at the production facility prior to shipment).  
           [0033]    Additionally, the method may comprise the step of interconnecting a belt to the plurality of syringe bodies in a predetermined orientation. Preferably, such interconnection occurs prior to the packaging and sterilization steps.  
           [0034]    In conjunction with the removal and replacement of each of the caps, such steps may include, for each of the syringe bodies, the further steps of retainably engaging the cap in a retainer and moving at least one of the retainer and the holder to affect relative movement between the cap and the dispensing end of the syringe body. Further in this regard, such retainable engagement may be completed by, moving the holder for a syringe along a predetermined path so as to insert the cap in the retainer.  
           [0035]    In conjunction with noted filling step, the method may further provide for the interconnection of a fluid supply member with a dispensing end of the syringe body and for the flow of fluid into the syringe body through the interconnected fluid supply member. In one embodiment, such steps as well as the cap removal and cap replacement steps, may be completed with the syringe body held at a single location. In such embodiment the retainer, and fluid supply member may be interconnected for tandem forward/rearward and sideways movement. In another embodiment, the cap removal and cap replacement steps may be completed with a syringe body held at a first location, while the filling step may be completed at a second location. Such an approach only requires forward/rearward tandem movement of the retainer and fluid supply member.  
           [0036]    Of note, the inventive filling method and apparatus may also provide for sensing of the position of a syringe body plunger during fluid filling. In this regard, optical sensing, pressure sensing or the like may be utilized, wherein a sense signal may be provided that reflects the fluid volume within a syringe as it is filled. In turn, the sense signal may be employed to terminate the flow of fluid at a predetermined amount. In another approach, a predetermined amount of fluid may be drawn into each syringe body via controlled retraction of the associated plunger.  
           [0037]    As may be appreciated, the inventive apparatus for filling a plurality of syringe bodies may include at least one, and preferably a plurality of holders for holding a plurality of syringe bodies in a predetermined orientation. Further, the apparatus may include a retainer for retainably engaging the cap of a syringe body, wherein the cap may be selectively removed and replaced by the retainer. Additionally, the apparatus may include a fluid supply member disposed for selective fluid interconnection with a dispensing end of the syringe body.  
           [0038]    To facilitate automated operations, the inventive apparatus may further comprise a driven support member for moving the holder(s) along a predetermined path. Additionally, one or more driven support members may be provided for moving the retainer towards/away from the dispensing end(s) of each syringe body and/or for moving the fluid supply member towards and away from the dispensing end(s) of each syringe body.  
           [0039]    In yet additional aspect of the present invention, an inventive method and apparatus are provided for labeling a plurality of syringe bodies. The inventive method includes the steps of interconnecting a belt to a plurality of syringe bodies in a predetermined orientation, and placing contents-related information on belt segments interconnected to each of the syringe bodies. The method further includes the step of separating the belt between each of said plurality of syringe bodies to define an interconnected flap (e.g. corresponding with the belt segments) on each of the syringe bodies.  
           [0040]    In conjunction with the inventive labeling method, the separating step may provide for severing, or cutting the belt between adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies. Alternatively, the separating step may entail relative displacement of adjacent ones of the syringe bodies so as to achieve separation along perforation lines or the like.  
           [0041]    With respect to the step of placing contents-related information on each given belt segment, such step may entail the printing of information on a label and fixation of such label to a belt segment. Alternatively, this step may simply be completed via printing of the contents-related information directly on a given belt segment.  
           [0042]    In either case, the contents-related information may comprise one or more of the following types of information:  
           [0043]    information regarding the fluid contained in a given syringe body;  
           [0044]    information regarding fluid fill date for each given syringe body;  
           [0045]    information regarding the volumetric fluid content of each given syringe body;  
           [0046]    information comprising a product code corresponding with the contents of a given syringe body;  
           [0047]    information regarding the lot or batch number corresponding with each given syringe body; and  
           [0048]    information regarding storage and/or handling instructions for each given syringe body.  
           [0049]    As may be appreciated, such information may be provided in an alphanumeric or coded fashion. In the later regard, at least some of the information may be embodied in a bar code format to allow for optical scanning.  
           [0050]    In further relation to the inventive labeling method, the interconnected syringe bodies may be packaged in a container, sterilized and unpackaged from the container prior to the separating and contents-information placement steps. As may be appreciated, such sequencing provides for the interconnection, packaging and sterilization of syringe bodies at a production location, and the unpackaging, separation and labeling of the syringe bodies at another location (e.g. at a location where the syringe bodies are filled with liquid medication).  
           [0051]    The inventive labeling apparatus is particularly adaptd for use with a plurality of syringe bodies interconnected by belt, as described above, and may include a plurality of holders and a labeling member for placing contents-related information on belt segments extending between the syringe bodies. The apparatus may further include a separation member for separating the belt between adjacent ones of the plurality of syringe bodies, wherein a different belt segment in the form of a flap is interconnected with each one of the plurality of syringe bodies. To facilitate operation of the separation member and labeling member, each of such members may be provided with driven support members that may be selectively actuated to such members towards and away from the belt segments.  
           [0052]    As may be appreciated, various ones of the inventive aspects noted hereinabove may be combined to yield an inventive system for handling a plurality of syringe bodies, including a system that facilitates automated labeling and filling operations. The automated filling operations may further provide for automated cap removal replacement.  
           [0053]    These and other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention are set forth in part in the description that follows and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following description and figures or may be learned by practicing the invention. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0054]    The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present invention, and together with the descriptions serve to explain the principles of the invention.  
         [0055]    [0055]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a labeled, filled, and capped syringe with a label substrate and label attached according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0056]    [0056]FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a plurality of sterile capped syringes mounted in a belt or band for automated labeling and/or cap removal, fluid filling, and cap replacement according to one embodiment of this invention;  
         [0057]    [0057]FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic elevation view of an apparatus and process for mounting syringes in a tape band or belt according to one embodiment of this invention;  
         [0058]    [0058]FIG. 4 is diagrammatic elevation view of an apparatus and process for mounting syringes in a tape band or belt according to another embodiment of this invention;  
         [0059]    [0059]FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic elevation view of a labeling and filling apparatus of one embodiment of this invention;  
         [0060]    [0060]FIGS. 6 a  through  6   e  comprise diagrammatic plan views of the syringe-filling station on the apparatus embodiment of FIG. 5 wherein a sequence of component positions are shown that correspond to and illustrate sequential steps of cap removal, fluid filling, and cap replacement operation.  
         [0061]    [0061]FIGS. 7 a  and  7   b  comprise isometric assembly and exploded views, respectively, of a labeling and filling apparatus of the embodiment corresponding with FIGS. 5 and 6 a - e;    
         [0062]    [0062]FIGS. 8 a - 8   d  comprise isometric views of the syringe-filling station of the apparatus embodiment of FIG. 7, wherein a sequence of component positions are shown that correspond with and illustrate the sequential steps of cap removal, fluid filling, and cap replacement operations.  
         [0063]    [0063]FIG. 9 is a schematic elevation view of a labeling and filling apparatus according to another embodiment of this invention;  
         [0064]    [0064]FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a syringe-filling station of the apparatus embodiment of FIG. 9; and  
         [0065]    [0065]FIGS. 11 a - 11   h  are flat, diagrammatic views of syringe handling operations at the filling-station of the apparatus embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10.  
         [0066]    [0066]FIGS. 12 a - 12   c  are isometric, end and cross-sectional views of a syringe cap employable in one embodiment of the syringe shown in FIG. 1.  
         [0067]    [0067]FIGS. 13 a - 13   c  are isometric, end and cross-sectional views of a syringe cap employable in another embodiment of the syringe shown in FIG. 1. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0068]    A capped syringe S that has been labeled and filled according to one embodiment of this invention is shown in FIG. 1. A cap C covers and protects the sterility of the dispensing luer tip (concealed from view in FIG. 1 by the cap C). Since the barrel B of the syringe S is full in FIG. 1, the plunger P is extended longitudinally. A flap or substrate  10  for a label  12  is provided by two strips of adhesive tape  14 ,  16 , both of which are wrapped around and adhered to respectively opposite sides of the barrel B and adhered to each other in face-to-face relation in extensions  18 ,  20  of the adhesive tape  14 ,  16  that extend in diametrically opposite directions from the barrel B. It is preferred, but not necessary, that at least one of the adhesive tapes  14 ,  16  be transparent so that the graduation marks G that are on most conventional syringes as well as the plunger piston (not shown) in FIG. 1) can be seen through the adhesive tape.  
         [0069]    In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the label  12  is a printed sheet that has been adhered to the panel extension  20  of the substrate  10 . However, the label could also be provided in other ways according to this invention. For example, but not for limitation, the printed information could be printed directly on one or both of the adhesive tapes  14 ,  16 . Such printing, if placed on a transparent tape  14 ,  16  would preferably not be enough to mask the graduation marks G. Another option could be to make one of the tapes, such as tape  14  opaque, perhaps with label information on it, but make the other tape  16  transparent so as not to mask or hide the graduation marks G. For another possibility, a sheet label similar to label  12  could be sandwiched between the two adhesive tapes  14 ,  16 .  
         [0070]    As mentioned above, a significant feature of this invention is having a plurality of sterile, capped syringes S mounted in spaced apart relation to each other in a band or belt  30 , as shown in FIG. 2, for handling the syringes S in automated preparation operations. For example, belt  30  may be employed for pulling the syringes S into and preferably at least partially through a labeling and/or filling apparatus and process, as will be described in more detail below. The band or belt  30  can be made with the two elongated adhesive tapes  15 ,  16  that were described above and which can be cut to separate the syringes S into individual syringes S with the label substrate  10  as shown in FIG. 1 and as will be described in more detail below.  
         [0071]    Before proceeding, reference is now made to FIGS. 12 a - 12   c  and FIGS. 13 a - 13   c  which illustrate alternate embodiments of caps C employable with syringes S of the type shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown, the caps C of the two embodiments each include a cylindrical outer member  500  for matingly engaging the outer flange provided at the dispensing end of the barrel B of the syringe S. In the FIG. 12 a - 12   c  embodiment, a cylindrical inner member  502  is also provided for matingly receiving the fluid port provided at the dispensing end of barrel B of syringe S. In the case of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 a - 13   c  a central pin-like inner member  504  is provided for mating insertion into the fluid port provided at the dispensing end of the barrel B of syringe S. Of further note, internal locating legs  506  are provided in the embodiment of FIG. 13 a - 13   c  for retentively engaging the fluid port of barrel B. As may be appreciated, the embodiments of FIG. 12 a - 12   c  and FIG. 13 a - 13   c  both provide for isolation of the contents of syringe S.  
         [0072]    There are many ways by which the plurality of syringes S can be mounted in the band or belt  30  shown in FIG. 2, and this invention is not limited to any one of such ways of doing so. However, for purposes of example, but not for limitation, one method and apparatus for mounting multiple syringes S into a band or belt  30  is shown in FIG. 3. As one tape strip, e.g., tape strip  16 , is unwound from a roll  32 , as indicated by arrows  34 ,  36 , it is threaded around the periphery  38  of a syringe mounting wheel  40 , which rotates as indicated by arrow  42 . A pair of rims (only one rim  44  of the pair can be seen in the elevation view of FIG. 2) extend radially outward beyond each side of the periphery  38 , and each of the rims  44  has a plurality of notches  46  in equal, angularly spaced relation to each other around the periphery  38 . As the wheel  40  rotates, preferably capped, empty syringes S are placed serially into the notches  46 , as indicated by arrows  48 , where they contact the adhesive side of the tape strip  16 .  
         [0073]    As the wheel  40  rotates, as indicated by the arrow  42 , it carries the syringes S in the notches  46  and in contact with the tape strip  16  to a position where the syringes S come into contact with the adhesive side of the other tape strip  14 , which is simultaneously being unwound from a roll  50  as indicated by arrows  52 ,  54 ,  56 . An idler wheel  58  positions the tape strip  14  in relation to the wheel  40  so that it contacts the syringes S mounted in the notches  46 . Therefore, the tapes strips  14 ,  16  get adhered to diametrically opposite sides of the syringes S. In this regard, a contact plate  67  may also be provided to insure engagement between tape strip  14  and syringes.  
         [0074]    As the syringes S, which are adhered to tape strips  14 ,  16  emerge from the wheel  40 , they are captured by notches  60  in a press wheel  62  that rotates, as indicated by arrow  64 , to press the tape strips  14 ,  16  to each other between the syringes S. Press wheel  62  may be provided for driven rotation, wherein such driven rotation effects rotation of the tape rolls  32  and  50 , as well as rotation of syringe mounting wheel  40  as the tape strips  14 ,  16  are pulled around press wheel  62  with syringes S secured therebetween. A rotatable pressing block  63  is juxtaposed to the press wheel  62  so that the tape strips  14 ,  16  run between the press wheel  62  and the rotatable pressing block  63 . The pressing block  63  may be configured to present a plurality of semicircular surfaces that are spaced to be in opposing relation to notches  60 . Thus, the press wheel  62  and the pressing block  63  cooperate to press and adhere the tape strips  14 ,  16  tightly together and around the circumference of each syringe S. The pressing block  63  is preferably yieldably biased by a spring-loaded pivot arm  65  or some other bias system to press the pressing block  63  toward the press wheel  62 .  
         [0075]    After disengaging from press wheel  62 , the belt  30  with the syringes S mounted therein are fed as indicated by arrow  66  into a bin or bag  68 . Alternatively, the belt  30  with syringes S could be fed directly into a labeling and/or filling apparatus, which will be described below.  
         [0076]    In general, the syringes S are positioned in the band or belt  30  in a common orientation, i.e., with luers of all the syringes S on the same side of the band  30 . The notches  46  in the wheel  40  are spaced uniformly around the rim  44 , so the syringes S in the resulting band  30  are spaced equidistantly apart. The caps C can be placed on the syringes S either before, while, or after the syringes S are mounted in the band  30 . The band  30  of syringes S can then be fan folded or rolled and placed in the plastic bag  68 , which can be closed and/or sealed to protect sterility. The package or bag  68  of banded syringes  30  can then be sterilized by any of a variety of standard sterilization processes, for example by gamma radiation. The sterilized packages  68  of sterilized, banded syringes S, usually in quantities of about 200 to 1,000 syringes S per package  68 , are shipped to users, such as hospitals or other health care institutions, who will label and/or fill and re-cap the syringes S for use within an acceptable time after filling.  
         [0077]    [0077]FIG. 4 illustrates another method and apparatus embodiment for mounting multiple syringes S into a band or belt  30 . In this embodiment a syringe feed-wheel  203  is driven synchronously with tape feed wheels  240  and  262  to form a band  30  of interconnected syringes S. More particularly, tape feed wheels  240  and  262  are driven to pull adhesive tapes  16  and  14  about idler wheels  215  and  258  from tape rolls  232  and  250 , respectively. Tensioning devices  211  and  215  are provided to establish a desired amount of tension along tape strips  16  and  14  as they are fed to tape feed wheels  240  and  262 , respectively.  
         [0078]    As shown by FIG. 4, a vibrating track  201  is provided to advance syringes S for sequential loading into notches  205  of the syringe feed wheel  203 . In turn, the syringe feed-wheel  203  is located immediately adjacent to the tape feed-wheel  240  so that notches  246  of the tape feed-wheel and notches  205  of the syringe feed-wheel  240  are disposed in opposing relation. As such, it can be seen that tape  16  will be pressed into notches  246  on one side of syringes S to achieve conformal interconnection therewith. Further in this regard, a pneumatic position and tension control device  207  is provided to enhance the interconnection between syringes S and tape  16 . Device  207  includes a mount lever arm  207   a  interconnected to the syringe feed-wheel  203 , and a pneumatic cylinder  207   b  for locating the arm  207   a  and syringe feed-wheel  203  as appropriate so that syringes S apply a predetermined, desired amount of force against tape  16 .  
         [0079]    After interconnection of one side of syringes S to adhesive tape  16 , the FIG. 4 embodiment provides for the interconnection of adhesive tape  14  to the other side of syringes S. More particularly, tape feed-wheel  262  is driven synchronously with and positioned relative to tape feed-wheel  240  so that notches  260  are in aligned relation with notches  246  to capture syringes S between adhesive tape strips  14  and  16 . Concomitantly, tape  14  is pressed about the syringes S to complete band  30 .  
         [0080]    As further shown in FIG. 4, a pneumatic position and tension control device  209  is provided at the tape feed-wheel  262 . Device  209  includes a mount lever arm  209   a  and a pneumatic cylinder  209   b  for locating the tape feed-wheel  262  as appropriate to establish the desired amount of force applied by syringes S to tape strip  16 .  
         [0081]    Referring now to the diagrammatic elevation view of the labeling and filling apparatus  70  in FIG. 5, a band  30  of syringes S is pulled from the bag  68  by a sprocket wheel or drum  72  and rotated to positions where the band  30  is cut to form the label substrates  10  (see FIG. 1), and, if the substrates are not already labeled, to attach labels  12  to the substrates  10 , and to remove the caps C, fill the syringes S with the desired medication, and replace the caps C.  
         [0082]    In FIG. 5, if the bands  30  do not already have labels, the user will prepare a quantity of labels  12  and mount them to feed into a labeling station  80 . The labels can be prepared in any suitable manner, for example, using a standard computer label printer, and the quantity of labels  12  prepared can correspond to the number of syringes S to be filled with medication that matches the labels  12 . The user also prepares the liquid medication  91  in a container  92 , which the user connects to a suitable fluid control system, such as conventional peristaltic pump  93  or other suitable syringe filling, fluid metering, or handling system. The medication will be conveyed via a suitable tube  94  or other conduit to the syringe filling station  90 , which will be explained in more detail below. The volume of medication to be pumped into each syringe S can be set and controlled in any of a variety of ways. For example, the pump  93  can be actuated to initiate a fill and deactuated when the syringe has been filled with the desired volume of medication, as will be described in more detail below.  
         [0083]    With continuing reference primarily to FIG. 5, the sprocket drum  72  has a plurality of notches  74  in equal, angularly-spaced relation to each other around the circumference of the drum  72 . The notches  74  are large enough to receive and retain a syringe S, and they are spaced apart from each other the same distance as the spacing between the syringes S in the band  30 . Therefore, when at least one of the syringes S in the band  30  is positioned in an appropriate notch  74 , rotation of the drum  72 , as indicated by arrow  75 , will cause the band  30  to pull successive syringes S in the band  30  out of the bag  68  and into the labeling and filling apparatus  70 . Suitable guides, for example, guides  76 ,  77 ,  78 , can be used to hold the syringes S in the notches  74  as the drum  72  rotates and carries the syringes S through the cutting station  100 , labeling station  80 , and filling station  90 .  
         [0084]    It is appropriate to mention at this point that the sequential order of cutting, labeling, and filling is not critical to the invention, and these operations can be performed in any sequential order or even simultaneously, depending on how one wishes to mount the appropriate equipment, as would be within the capabilities of persons skilled in the art once the principles of this invention are understood. However, the convenient sequence of cutting, labeling, and filling will be used for purposes of this description of the invention. The drum  72  can be driven to rotate, as indicated by arrow  75 , and to stop with syringes S positioned appropriately for the cutting, labeling, and filling operations at the respective stations  100 ,  80 ,  90  by any appropriate drive and control system as is well within the capability of persons skilled in the art, such as, for example, with a stepper motor (not shown) connected to appropriate motor control devices (not shown). A control panel (not shown) connected to the stepper motor can be set up for use by an operator to either jog the drum  72  through incremental steps and/or jog the cutting station  100 , labeling station  80 , or filling station  90  through their respective operations or to initiate continuous automatic operation.  
         [0085]    At the cutting station  100 , an actuator  101  drives a knife blade  102  as indicated by arrow  103  to cut and sever the band  30  to disconnect the syringes S from each other and to leave the resulting band segments or flaps connected to each syringe S to form individual label substrates  10  for each syringe S. The knife blade  102  is preferably serrated and a slot  104  in the drum in alignment with the knife blade  102  facilitate sure, complete cuts. Any suitable actuator  101  can be used, such as a rotary drive motor, solenoid, or the like. A sheath (not shown) can be provided to cover the blade  102  when it is not cutting. An optical or other sensor (not shown) can be positioned adjacent the drum  72  where the syringes S are first engaged by notches  74  to detect whether any syringes S have missing caps. A signal from the sensor in response to a missing cap could actuate and alarm and/or shut down the apparatus to prevent an uncapped syringe S from being labeled and filled.  
         [0086]    For the syringe S that has advanced to the labeling station  80 , a labeler device  81 , moving as indicated by arrow  82 , affixes a label  12  to the substrate  10 . The labeler device  81  can be any of a variety of known label apparatus that transfer labels  12  from a strip  83  to an object, or it could be some other device, such as printer apparatus that prints the label directly onto the flap substrate  10 , or some combination of such apparatus, as would be within the capabilities of persons skilled in the art once they understand the principles of this invention. An optical sensor (not shown) is used to detect whether a label has been affixed to the substrate  10  at the label station  80 . A microprocessor (not shown) can be used to keep count of labels properly affixed and/or activate an alarm and/or shut down the apparatus  70  if a label is not detected on a substrate where a label is supposed to be affixed.  
         [0087]    For a syringe S that has advanced to the fill station  90 , the cap C (not shown in FIG. 5) is removed by a cap handling apparatus  110 , then a liquid dispensing apparatus  120  is connected to the luer (not shown in FIG. 5) of the syringe S to dispense liquid medication into the syringe S, and the pump  93  (or other suitable liquid metering or control apparatus) is actuated to move the medication  91  from the container  92  into the syringe S. When the syringe S is filled with the desired volume of fluid, as sensed, for example, by a proximity sensor that senses the corresponding desired position of the plunger P (not shown in FIG. 4) of the syringe S, the pump  93  (or other suitable liquid metering or control apparatus) is deactuated. Then, the liquid dispensing apparatus  120  is disconnected from the syringe S, and the cap handling apparatus  100  is moved into position to replace the cap C (not shown in FIG. 5) onto the luer (not shown in FIG. 4) of the syringe S. The cap handling apparatus  110  and the liquid dispensing apparatus  120  are mounted on a cammed shuttle  130 , which moves laterally in two axes, as indicated by arrow  131  in the plane of the paper and by arrow  132  perpendicular to the plane of the paper, to accomplish the cap removal, fill, and cap replacement functions described above. While these functions could be performed by myriad other devices and combinations of devices, as would be within the capabilities of persons skilled in the art once they understand the principles of this invention, an example cammed shuttle  130 , cap handling apparatus  110 , and liquid dispensing apparatus  120  shown diagrammatically in FIG. 4 will be described in more detail below.  
         [0088]    After the syringes S leave the fill station  90 , they are allowed to drop individually out of the sprocket drum  72  and, for example, into a basket  150  or other receptacle. At this stage, the syringes S are labeled, filled, and ready for use, as shown in FIG. 1.  
         [0089]    Referring now to FIGS. 6 a,    6   b,    6   c,    6   d,  and  6   e  in combination with FIG. 5, the cammed shuttle  130  is driven by a motor, such as a stepper motor  133 , which rotates a slotted cam lever or crank arm  134  mounted on the drive shaft  135  of the motor  133 . A driver block  136  has a slide pin or a cam roll (concealed from view) extending in one direction into the slotted race groove  137  of the cam lever or crank arm  134  and another cam follow pin or cam roll  138  extending in the opposite direction into a U-shaped cam slot  139  in a stationary cam block  140 . Therefore, as the stepper motor  133  rotates, for example as shown by arrow  141  in FIGS. 6 b  and  6   c,  the cam lever  134  causes the cam follower pin or cam roll  138  extending from the driver block  136  to follow the U-shaped path of the cam slot  139 , which moves the two slide shafts  142 ,  143  extending laterally from driver block  136  as well as the connecting block  144  at the distal ends of slide shafts  142 ,  143  to move simultaneously in the same U-shaped motion pattern. The two slide shafts  142 ,  143  extend slidably through two holes  145 ,  146  in a pillow block  147 , which is mounted slidably on two support rods  148 ,  149 . The support rods  148 ,  149  are mounted in two stationary anchor blocks  150 ,  151  and extend slidably through two holes  152 ,  153  in pillow block  147 , which are perpendicular to, but vertically offset from, holes  145 ,  146 . Thus, as the stepper motor  133  drives the driver block  136  through the U-shaped pattern of cam slot  139 , the pillow block  147  slides laterally on support rods  148 ,  149  as indicated by arrow  154 , while the slide shafts  142 ,  143  slide longitudinally in pillow block  147  as indicated by arrow  155 . As a result, the connector block  144  and cammed shuttle  130  also move both laterally and longitudinally as indicated by arrows  131 ,  132  in the same U-shape pattern as the U-shaped cam slot  139  to remove the cap C from the syringe S, connect the syringe S to a nozzle  121  in the liquid dispensing apparatus  120  to fill the syringe S, disconnect the nozzle  121 , and replace the cap C, as will be described in more detail below. Suitable bushing or bearings can be used to enhance the sliding movement of the shafts  142 ,  143  and support rods  148 ,  149  in the pillow block  147 .  
         [0090]    Referring now to FIG. 6 a  in combination with FIG. 4, the drum  72  has moved a syringe S to the filling station  90 , where it stops for the cap removal, fill, and cap replacement operation. The syringe S is shown in FIG. 6 a  positioned in a notch  74  with a label  12  affixed to the substrate  10 . As the drum  72  moved the syringe S to the position shown in FIG. 6 a,  the cap C was moved into a set of jaws  160 , which is aligned longitudinally with the syringe S when the slotted cam lever  134  is stopped in the position shown in FIG. 6 a  and the drum  72  stops the syringe S in the filling station  90 . A cap gripper  161 , such as resilient spring steel, presses against the cap C in jaws  160  to capture and retain the cap C in the jaws  160 . Again, optical sensors (not shown) or other suitable sensors and/or control devices or methods can be used to stop the drum  72  when the syringe S is positioned with the cap C captured in the jaws  160  as would be understood by persons skilled in the art once they understand the principles of this invention. Then, the motor  133  is actuated to rotate the slotted cam lever  134  as indicated by arrow  141  in FIG. 6 b,  which extends the slide shafts  142 ,  143 , as indicated by arrow  156 , as the pillow block  147  slides to the right on support rods  148 ,  149 , as indicated by arrow  157 . As a result, the cammed shuttle  130  moves the jaws  160  with the cap C away from the syringe S, thereby removing the cap C from the syringe S and leaving the luer L of the syringe S exposed and open, as shown in FIG. 6 b.  Again, the gripper  161  described above retains the cap C in the jaws  160  when the cap C is removed from the luer L.  
         [0091]    Continued rotation of the cam lever  134  as indicated by the arrow  141  in FIG. 5 c  translates the pillow block  147  still farther to the right on support rods  148 ,  149 , as indicated by arrow  157  in FIG. 6 c,  until the longitudinal axis  122  of the fill connector or nozzle  121  aligns with the longitudinal axis  123  of syringe S, then retracts the slide shafts  142 ,  143 , as indicated by arrow  158 , to position the nozzle  121  on luer L of the syringe S. At that position of the cammed shuttle  130 , the motor  133  is deactuated, so the nozzle  121  stays on the luer L while the pump  93  (FIG. 5) is actuated to pump liquid medication  91  from the container  92  to fill the syringe S. The fill connector or nozzle  121  is preferably mounted on the cammed shuttle  130  by a spring-loaded slide (not shown) or similar yieldable, resilient mounting to apply an appropriate, uniform force to the nozzle  121  as it is being forced by the cammed shuttle  130  onto the luer L of the syringe S. This motion to remove the cap C and place the fill connector or nozzle  121  on the syringe S can be accomplished in approximately  250  milliseconds with this mechanism. The U-shaped cam slot  139  provides a straight, longitudinal pull of the cap C in alignment with the longitudinal axis  123  of the syringe S and a corresponding straight, longitudinal push to attach the nozzle  121  to the luer L.  
         [0092]    As best seen in FIG. 6 d,  the plunger P of the syringe S is pushed outwardly by the liquid medication that is pumped into the syringe S. When the syringe S has been filled with the desired volume of liquid medication, the flow of liquid medication into the syringe S is stopped. The flow can be measured and stopped in a variety of ways, such as flow meters, valves, known pump displacement, and the like, as would be within the knowledge and capabilities of persons skilled in the art once they understand the principles of this invention. However, a particularly novel and innovative way of controlling the fill volume according to this invention is to use a sensor  124  to detect when the plunger P has been pushed out to a predetermined extent that corresponds to the fill volume desired, as illustrated in FIG. 6 d  a myriad of sensors could be used for this function, such as a capacitive proximity sensor, optical sensor, microswitch, and the like. Upon sensing the desired extension of the plunger P, a signal from the sensor  124  can be used to shut off the flow of liquid medication into the syringe S. A suitable signal control circuit, for example, a microprocessor and/or relay, (not shown) to shut off the pump  93  or to close some control valve (not shown) is well within the capabilities of persons skilled in the art once they understand the principles of this invention. As shown in FIG. 6 d,  the sensor  124  can be mounted on an adjustable base  125  with a scale  126  and pointer  127  to correlate adjustable physical position of the sensor with the desired fill volume.  
         [0093]    When the desired fill volume has been reached and detected, as explained above, a signal from the sensor  124  is used to deactuate the pump  93 . A preferred, albeit not essential, pump  93  is a peristaltic pump, such as, for example, a model 099 Repeater Pump, manufactured by Baxa Corporation, of Englewood, Colo., which can be reversed momentarily to take the fluid pressure off the tubing  94  and syringe S to minimize, if not prevent, dripping of the liquid medication when the nozzle  121  is detached from the luer L. Then, the motor  133  is actuated to rotate the cam lever  132  in the opposite direction, as indicated by the arrow  159  in FIG. 6 e,  to detach the nozzle  121  from the luer L of the syringe S and move the jaws  60  and cap C back into longitudinal alignment with the axis  123  of the syringe S for replacing the cap C on the syringe S. Specifically, as the cam lever  134  rotates, as shown by arrow  159 , the cammed shuttle  130  moves back through the U-shaped pattern defined by the U-shaped cam slot  139 . First, the slide shafts  142 ,  143  are extended as indicated by arrow  171  to detach the nozzle  121  from the luer L of syringe S. Then the cammed shuttle is moved in an arc as indicated by arrow  172  to align the cap C in jaws  160  with the longitudinal axis  123  of the syringe S. Finally, the slide shafts  142 ,  143  are retracted again, as indicated by arrow  173 , to push the cap C back onto the syringe S. The cap handling apparatus  110  can be mounted by a spring-loaded slide (not shown) or some other yieldable, resilient structure, if desired, to ensure a uniform pressure application to the cap C as it is being pushed by the cammed shuttle  130  back onto the syringe S.  
         [0094]    At this position, shown in FIG. 6 e,  the fill is completed, and the drum  72  can be rotated again to move the cap C out of the jaws  160  and to move the next syringe S in the sequence into the jaws  160  for a repeat of the cap removal, fill, and cap replacement sequence described above on the next syringe S in the drum  72 . At the next position after the filling station  90 , a sensor (not shown), such as an optical sensor, is used to determine if the cap C is placed correctly back on the syringe S. If it is not placed correctly, the apparatus is stopped and/or an alarm is sounded in response to a signal from the sensor indicating that the cap C is not replaced. After that cap-check position, the drum moves the syringe to a point where hold down or guide tracks end, thereby freeing the syringe S to drop out of the drum  72  and into a chute (not shown) that guides the labeled, filled, and recapped syringe S into the holding basket  150 .  
         [0095]    The control system (not shown) can utilize signals from the sensors to record number of syringes S filled, program the number of doses desired and automatically stop when that number of syringes S are filled, record the number of doses actually pumped, record the number of doses or syringes in the basket  150  and keep track of rejected labels or syringes. Other functions can also be provided.  
         [0096]    Referring now to FIGS. 7 a  and  7   b,  the labeling and filling apparatus embodiment of FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 a - 6   e  is further illustrated in a production implementation. Of note, the labeling and filling apparatus  70  is shown in a compact table top arrangement that may be readily positioned in a sterile environment, e.g. within a sterile area having an appropriate exhaust hood. As will be recognized, the apparatus  70  includes a cutting station  100 , labeling station  80  and filling station  90 .  
         [0097]    The drum  72  may be driven in a clockwise direction by a step motor  301 , wherein syringes S are positioned into the notches  74  for sequential feeding to the work stations  80 ,  90  and  100 . At cutting station  100 , an actuator  101  in the form of a stepper motor may be utilized. In particular, the actuator  101  may be controlled to turn a crank  303  having a cam follower  305  that is located in a slot  307  on a mount block  309  for cutting blade  102 . The block  309  is supported on rails  311 , wherein driven rotation of the crank  303  effects linear travel of the cutting blade  102  towards and away from the drum  72  and a belt  30  with syringes S carried thereby. The operation of actuator  101  may be timed in relation to the stepped movement of drum  72  so that belt  30  is cut into belt segments  10  of a consistent width by cutting blade  102 .  
         [0098]    At labeling station  80 , the labeling device  81  may include a stepper motor  315  to which a shaft  317  is interconnected for driven eccentric motion. That is, upon actuation stepper motor  315  may drive shaft  317  through an arc from a first position to a second position. By way of example, the first position may be as illustrated in FIGS. 7 a  and  7   b,  wherein the labeling device  81  is located in a down position for label placement. Upon eccentric motion of the shaft  317  to a second position, shaft  317  will engage the labeling device  81  causing the cantilevered end thereof to cock upwards about a stationary shaft  319 . As may be appreciated, the operation of stepper motor  315  is timed in relation to the stepped movement of drum  72  to affect label placement on the belt segments  10  between adjacent syringes S.  
         [0099]    Referring now to FIGS. 8 a - 8   d,  operation of the filling station  80  shown in FIGS. 7 a  and  7   b  will be further described. In FIG. 8 a  a syringe S has advanced to the filling station  90  with a cap C inserted into cap handling apparatus  110 . As illustrated, syringe S has an interconnected belt segment on flap  10  with a label  12  adhered thereto.  
         [0100]    As next shown in FIG. 8 b,  it can be seen that filling station  90  has retracted away from drum  72  so as to remove cap C from the dispensing end of the syringe S. As previously noted, such retraction is achieved by activating stepper motor  133  to rotate cam lever  134 , thereby causing driver block  136 , slide shafts  142 ,  143 , connecting block  144  and shuttle  130  to move along a first straight leg portion of U-shaped motion pattern.  
         [0101]    In the later regard, FIG. 8 c  shows the filling station  90  immediately after cam lever  134  has moved through the curved portion of the U-shaped motion pattern. In this position it can be seen that the nozzle  121  of the liquid dispensing apparatus  120  is aligned with the dispensing end of the syringe S. As such, and as seen in FIG. 8 d,  further movement of the filling station  90  along the second straight leg portion of the U-shaped motion pattern causes the liquid dispensing apparatus  120  to linearly advance towards syringe S, wherein the nozzle  121  engages and fluidly interconnects with the dispensing end of the syringe S. Upon reaching the FIG. 8 d  position, filling station  90  may be controlled so that fluid is injected through nozzle  121  into the syringe S. As further shown in FIG. 8 d,  fluid has filled the syringe S to displace the plunger P into contact with the sensor  124 . At this point, a sensor signal is transmitted to terminate the filling of syringe S. Thereafter, stepper motor  133  may again rotate cam lever  134  through the U-shaped motion pattern to reposition cap C back onto the dispensing end of the syringe S.  
         [0102]    As noted above, the filling and labeling apparatus  70  is only one embodiment of the present invention. Numerous other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. By way of example, reference is now made to FIGS. 9, 10 and  11   a - 11   f,  which illustrate an alternate embodiment.  
         [0103]    In this embodiment a drum  472  is driven in a counter-clock wise direction, wherein a band  430  of syringes S pulled in series into the notches  474  for preparation operations. In the later regard, the band  430  is suspended from the drum  472  to facilitate aligned, side-by-side positioning of the syringes S in notches  474 . As schematically shown in FIG. 9, the syringes S are sequentially advanced through filling station  490 , labeling station  480  and cutting station  400 . Thereafter, the separated syringes S may be directed into a container (not shown) via a chute  500 . The operation of labeling station  480  and cutting station  400  may be analogous to the operations of the labeling station  80  and cutting station  100  described above in relation to FIG. 5 and FIGS. 6 a - 6   b.  In contrast to that embodiment, however, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9, 10 and  11   a - 11   h  may implement a different approach at filling station  490 .  
         [0104]    In the modified operation shown in FIG. 9, a syringe is first positioned at location I for cap removal, then located at a second position II for filling, followed by location back at work location I for cap replacement. To facilitate an understanding of such approach, the labeling station  480  and cutting station  400  are not presented in FIG. 10. As best shown by FIG. 10, filling station  490  includes a cap handling apparatus  410  and liquid dispensing apparatus  420 . As will be appreciated, liquid dispensing apparatus  420  is interconnectable to a reservoir (not shown) containing a fluid for filling syringes S. Of note, both the cap handling apparatus  41  and liquid dispensing apparatus  420  are mounted on a common support member  430 . Support member  430  may be interconnected to a stepper motor (not shown) acutatable to affect linear travel of the cap handling apparatus  410  and liquid dispensing apparatus  420  towards and away from the drum  472 . Such linear travel, together with the rotation of drum  472  are the only required motions for cap removal, filling and cap replacement. Such operations will now be further described with reference to FIGS. 11 a - 11   h.    
         [0105]    [0105]FIGS. 11 a - 11   h  are flat, diagrammatic views of filling station  490  from a rearward perspective relative to the isometric front view shown in FIG. 10. Before proceeding, it should be noted that the filling station  490  shown in FIGS. 11 a - 11   h  further includes a syringe flange retention track  492  and a plunger flange retention member  494 . As will be further described, the plunger flange retention number  494  is selectively retractable relative to retention track  492  so that fluid may be drawn from liquid dispensing apparatus  420  to fill syringes S. In this regard, liquid dispensing apparatus  420  may include a valve to control the passage/stoppage of fluid therethrough. By way of example, such valve may comprise an actuatable roller.  
         [0106]    With particular reference to FIG. 11 a,  a syringe S is shown in the first location I shown in FIG. 9 wherein Cap C has been inserted in the cap handling apparatus  410  for retention thereby. Concomitantly, a flange on syringe S has been inserted and advanced within the retention track  492 . Next, and as shown in FIG. 11 b,  cap handling apparatus  410  has been retracted from the syringe S with cap C retained thereby. As will be appreciated, such retraction may be affected via linear driven travel of the support member  430  shown in FIG. 10.  
         [0107]    [0107]FIG. 11 c  shows the syringe S moved to the location II shown in FIG. 9. More particularly, drum  472  may be rotated clockwise to affect such positioning, wherein the liquid dispensing apparatus  420  is aligned with the dispensing end of the syringe S. Then, liquid dispensing apparatus  420  may be advanced into engagement with the dispensing end of syringe S as shown in FIG. 11 d.  Again, such linear travel may be affected via movement of support member  430 . Of note, both FIGS. 11 c  and  11   d  show the plunger P being positioned in the retention member  494 .  
         [0108]    In this regard, and referring now to FIG. 11 e,  retention member  494  may be provided for driven retraction away from syringe S (e.g. via an unshown stepper motor), with the valve of liquid dispensing apparatus  420  opened so as to draw fluid through liquid dispensing apparatus  420  into the syringe S. As may be appreciated, the amount, or length, of retraction of retention member  494  may be precisely controlled to achieve a preset filling volume. When the desired volume has been reached, the valve of liquid dispensing apparatus  420  may be closed. Where an actuatable roller is utilized, the roller may be positioned to pinch off a fluid conduit to back up the fluid a desired amount, thereby bringing the fluid pressure slightly below atmospheric pressure. After filling, the liquid dispensing apparatus  420  may be withdrawn from the dispensing end of the syringe S as shown in FIG. 11 f.  Again, such linear travel may be affected by controlled retraction of the support member  430 .  
         [0109]    Thereafter, syringe S may return to location I via counter-clockwise rotation of drum  472 , as shown in FIG. 11 g.  Finally, cap C may be replaced onto the dispensing end of the syringe S via advancement of the cap handling apparatus  410  on support member  430 . The syringe S may then be advanced for further operations at the labeling station  480  and cutting station  400  shown in FIG. 9.  
         [0110]    The foregoing description is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired limit the invention to the exact construction and process shown and described above. Accordingly, resort may be made to all suitable modifications and equivalents that fall within a scope of the invention as defined by the claims which follow. The words “comprise,” “comprises,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” and “includes” when used in this specification are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, or groups thereof.