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.

Abstract: A rotary deblistering apparatus is described. It comprises a rotatable drum having plurality of circumferential pack holding means each adapted to hold and retain a blister pack. The drum can rotate to locate the pack holding means at a plurality of peripheral work positions including a pack loading position, a pack deblistering position, and a pack detachment position. The blister packs can be loaded onto the drum through a loading means, preferably the loading means has a storage magazine able to supply a continuous number of packs to the drum. For a peelable pack, prior weakening or cutting of the backing of the pack may be necessary or desired. Such action could be carried out at the pack deblistering position. Alternatively, there is a prior weakening and/or cutting position around the drum.

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.