Abstract: A magazine is disclosed for dispensing generally cylindrical and elongated articles in a pre-determined order. The magazine comprises a series of shelves with a reciprocating ratcheting plate arranged perpendicular to the shelves. The ratching plate has surface configurations which allow the articles to be advanced in one direction of movement, and remain stationary relative to the shelves in a second opposite direction. The magazine is removable and may be pre-loaded to dispense in a pre-determined order. The magazine finds particular application in the dispensing of samples to an automated analyzer.

Abstract: A laminating machine is disclosed for use in laminating upper and lower heat activatible films on an object. Preferably a packet is employed having upper and lower film leaves within which the object is placed. The packet is received in the laminating machine which has a heating and compression zone formed of upper and lower heater assemblies followed by drive rollers. The heater assemblies are movable towards one another and both heat and compress the film packet as it moves through the machine drawn by the drive rollers. At least one of the heater assemblies has a tapering member which causes increased pressure along central portions of the packet relative to edge portions so as to create a wave in front of the heating and compression zone which spreads the material out evenly and prevents wrinkling or creasing during laminating.