Patent ID: 8678047

Claim:
An automated device for removing a tip cap from an empty syringe, placing the tip cap at a remote location, and replacing the tip cap on a filled syringe, the device comprising: a support frame that is movable along at least an x axis and a y axis; a gripper mechanism movable by the support frame including a pair of gripper arms at first and second locations, respectively, that are positionable between an open position and a closed position in which the tip cap is securely held in contact therebetween during both removal of the tip cap from the empty syringe at the first location and during the subsequent replacement of the tip cap on the filled syringe at the second location, wherein the tip cap is released from the gripper mechanism between its removal and replacement when the tip cap is disposed at the remote location; a programmable controller in communication with a plurality of drive actuators that controllably drive the gripper arms and the support frame to desired positions; and a sensor for detecting whether the tip cap is disposed between the gripper arms.