Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically weighing portions of semi-solid matter using a weigh station having a rotating receptacle which receives the portion so that an accurate weight indication of the portion can be taken, and propels the portion from the weigh station to a further conveyor or processing system, a drive motor which powers the weigh station through a disengageable motor drive connection, and a weight signal processor which converts and stores the weight indications as weight data and transmits appropriate control signals to the drive motor, whereby variations in the weight of each portion are measured and evaluated to control the further processing of each portion, according to whether the portion weight is within predetermined parameters.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously producing constant weight portions of semi-solid matter, such as bread dough, from a large mass through a dividing mechanism whereby variations in the weight of each portion are minimized by providing a signal proportional to the weight of a dough portion, or group of dough portions in order to automatically adjust the rate at which dough is fed to the dividing mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pharmaceutical bottle having a neck region with an open end, pills therein, a fibrous hygroscope member, such as a cotton wad, in the neck region of said bottle and a closure cap sealing the bottle opening. The neck region has on its inner surface a leaflet retaining ring which serves to hold the leaflet in place within the bottle immediately after the insertion. The tendency of the leaflet to unfold or open, causes the edges of the leaflet to engage the retaining ring and to be held in place at least until the bottle is sealed. The leaflet is in compression engagement with the fibrous hygroscope member, such that the pills are substantially prevented from moving relative to one another.