Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a leak in one or more blister pockets of one or more blister packs. The apparatus includes a plate for receiving the pack(s), a pressure reducer able to change the pressure around the pack(s) so as to seek to cause deflection of at least one side of the or each blister pocket between at least a first pressure and a second pressure, and an illumination source able to provide a lattice illumination on the or each blister pocket at at least the first pressure and the second pressure. The apparatus also includes an image capture device is which is able to take latticed pictures of each blister pocket at least the first pressure and the second pressure, and processor able to compare the latticed pictures to detect deflection of the blister pocket(s) at the different pressures.

Abstract: A method for detecting an imperfection in a blister package having at least one radiation-transmissible layer, optionally moving, the blister package having a flat side and a pocket side, the method comprising the steps of directing radiation at the flat side and/or the pocket side of the blister package and detecting any radiation emitted from at least one edge of the blister package.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting a leak in one or more pockets of one or more blister packs is described. The apparatus comprises means to support the or each pack, means to apply a reduced pressure around the or each pack so as to cause deflection of at least one side of the or each blister pocket, and a scanner means moveable or stationary in relation to the blister pockets, and a computing means. The scanner means is able to scan across at least one side of the or each blister pocket so as to detect the deflection of that side of the or each blister pocket at a reduced pressure, and the computing means compares scans at different pressures over the or each pocket. The apparatus can detect a leak in any format of blister pocket regardless of the shape of the pocket or whether the contents are tablets or capsules. Preferably, the blister packs are supported on a nest or similar means.