Abstract: A packing apparatus for packing multiple layers of containers into a receptacle is shown. The packing apparatus includes a placement assembly and a carriage assembly. The placement assembly includes a plurality of pickup devices mounted on one end of a moveable arm. The arm is moveable so that the pickup devices can pick up and transfer the containers to the receptacle. The receptacle is supported by the carriage assembly. The carriage assembly includes a moveable carriage that adjustably moves the position of the receptacle, relative to the placement assembly, to enable the articles to be placed into the receptacle in a preselected pattern. A system controller controls the timing, sequence, and movement of the placement assembly and the carriage assembly, both individually and relative to each other, in order to place and pack the containers into the receptacle in the preselected pattern.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing the sealing surface finish and the internal diameter of the mouth and neck of sealable containers comprises means for pressurizing the container and providing a digital signal having a value indicative of the magnitude of the peak pressure in the container and means for providing a defect signal if there are any obstructions in the mouth or neck of the container. A microcomputer maintains a running average value of selected ones of previously produced digital signals, compares the most recently produced digital signal to the running average value and provides a reject signal if the value of the most recent digital signal fails to exceed a percentage of the running average value. The microcomputer also provides a reject signal if it detects the presence of a defect signal. An initial average value is computed based upon selected ones of the digital numbers initially produced and the running average value is periodically compared to a percentage of the initial average value.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for statistically testing frangible containers produced by plural mold sources by selectively diverting containers to a test station at regular intervals of time. A diverted container is automatically tracked to the test station wherein it is tested. A signal indicative of the result of the test is generated for use in selectively diverting additional containers produced by the same mold source that produced the tested container. The totality of containers produced by the plural mold sources is upgraded by automatically ejecting all containers produced by one or more mold sources for fixed periods of time as a function of the test results.

Abstract: Apparatus for pressure testing frangible containers includes a carriage quided for horizontal reciprocation while supporting and guiding a pressure conduit mounted for vertical reciprocation. A pair of jaws are provided for embracing and supporting a container from above as the container is hydrostatically subjected to internal pressure.