Abstract: An article handling device for handling identical articles having one end that is thicker than the other end entering the device along a supply path containing a plurality of identically aligned articles wherein the leading end of each article is of the same thickness. The article handling device effects a dividing of a specified number of articles entering a transfer section into two groups, a first group being transferred directly to an exit section, a second group being transferred directly to a reversing section while a still further third group, previously transferred to the reversing section and reversed in orientation relative to the first and second groups, is transferred from the reversing section to the exit section. The first and third groups of articles are thereafter united as the orientation of the second group is reversed. The united first and third groups form a solid rectangular volume which can be easily packaged with no wasted space.

Abstract: An unpackaging machine is disclosed that respectively removes the cap, seal, cotton wad and tablets from a package container. The unpackaging machine includes a turntable with slots for receiving and transporting the sealed container, a rotatable chuck for removing the cap from the sealed container, a rotatable knife for rupturing the seal on the container, a gripper for removing the cottom wad and seal from the container, inverting guide rails for emptying the contents of the container, and an outlet for discharging the emptied container.