Abstract: A packaging apparatus and method for depositing pills into a series of containers is provided. A cylindrical rotary slat is rotatable about a first axis and comprises radially inward and outward portions, the radially outward portion defining pill apertures for receiving pills therein at a first angular position. A negative pressure system is configured to apply a negative pressure to the pill apertures to retain the pills therein. Two ejection devices are in communication with the pill apertures at a second angular position and a third angular position of the rotary slat to eject the respective pills outwardly from the pill apertures. A plurality of collection mechanisms is disposed adjacent to the radially outward portion about the second and third angular positions, and is configured to collect the pills ejected from the pill apertures and to direct the pills toward the respective series of containers for deposition therein.

Abstract: A packaging apparatus and method for depositing pills into a series of containers is provided. A cylindrical rotary slat is rotatable about a first axis and comprises radially inward and outward portions, the radially outward portion defining pill apertures for receiving pills therein at a first angular position. A negative pressure system is configured to apply a negative pressure to the pill apertures to retain the pills therein. Two ejection devices are in communication with the pill apertures at a second angular position and a third angular position of the rotary slat to eject the respective pills outwardly from the pill apertures. A plurality of collection mechanisms is disposed adjacent to the radially outward portion about the second and third angular positions, and is configured to collect the pills ejected from the pill apertures and to direct the pills toward the respective series of containers for deposition therein.

Abstract: A feeding tube medical apparatus having a catheter head and catheter that allows easy insertion and removal of the catheter within a patient needing enteral feeding. The invention also relates to a method for easy insertion and removal of the catheter. The catheter has a slim profile, a balloon bolster, and a tapered guide tube that promote easy insertion of the catheter down a patient's mouth and into his or her stomach. In addition, the catheter head, containing ports for feeding, medicating, and filling the balloon bolster, is removably connected to the catheter so that it need not be inserted through the patient along with the catheter.