Abstract: An apparatus for the sterile filling of containers sterilizes the containers before supplying them, with their caps on, to a substantially airtight chamber for filling. A precision lead screw precisely positions each container under the appropriate capping/uncapping mechanism and the appropriate filling needle. Filling and capping of each container is individually controlled so that each container is filled with a precise amount of liquid, and each cap is applied with the proper torque. The minimized number of components of the system minimizes the potential openings through which unfiltered air may enter the apparatus. Keeping the containers capped except while they're actually being filled minimizes the opportunity for any bacteria or viruses to enter the container.

Abstract: A vibratory parts feeding system having a vacuum hold down system for operatively attaching feeding bowls and tracks to vibratory base drives. The hold down system comprises an upper plate and a lower plate in confronting relation to each other. The upper plate is adapted along its upper surface for attachment to a feeder bowl, and the lower plate is adapted along its lower surface for attachment to a vibratory base drive. A vacuum port is located between the upper and lower plates through which a vacuum is applied. The periphery of the plates is sealed when a vacuum is applied to the upper and lower plates by a vacuum source, resulting in a coupling of the feeder bowl to the base drive and the transmission of the vibrations from the base drive to the feeder bowl. To facilitate alignment of the feeder bowl to the base drive, dowel pins and guide blocks are positioned along the outer edge of the lower plate to limit rotational movement and prevent damage to gaskets located between the upper and lower plates.