Abstract: A batching machine for assembling containers in batches comprises a pair of conveyor tracks for moving the containers to an assembly station, and a pivoted gate member which carries barrier means at each end and which is rocked to cause the barriers to interrupt the flow of containers along the tracks alternately while allowing a predetermined number of containers on the other track to pass to the assembly station to form a group against a stop. Alternately operating pushers move each completed group of containers transversely from the tracks onto a central conveyor so that groups from one track alternating with groups from the other track are carried to a securing station for taping the containers together and then separating them into batches containing containers from each track in a predetermined combination.

Abstract: Apparatus for securing together rectangular-section cartons (13) in groups of, for example, five cartons comprises tape dispensers (14,14') for dispensing adhesive tape (15a,b,c) on to the tops and bottoms of cartons in a row of cartons, and perforating rollers containing pins (21) for perforating the tape with spaced rows of perforations arranged to be located between adjacent cartons, each fifth row containing more perforations and means for breaking the tape at each fifth row to separate the cartons into batches of five.

Abstract: A toothpaste applicator comprises an applicator head formed on one end of a drinking straw. The head preferably comprises a pair of wing-shaped portions adapted to retain toothpaste, with a removable cover strip. The head may be textured on its convex and/or concave surfaces for effecting a brushing action in use.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing together milk, a fluoride solution and a flavoring solution to produce a pleasant-tasting fluordiated beverage, comprises two sets each of three vessels for containing the respective liquids to be mixed. The volumes of the three vessels are in the proportions in which the liquids are to be mixed and inlet flows from supply tanks of the three liquids are metered to fill the three vessels simultaneously. A common inlet valve shuts off the three supplies simultaneously and operation of the inlet valve automatically opens the outlet and mixing valve. As one set of vessels is filled, the other is emptied to provide a substantially continuous flow of the beverage.

Abstract: A circular dispensing tray having an upturned peripheral flange is formed with a first plurality of apertures in a central circular area and a second plurality of apertures in a surrounding annular area divided from the central area by an upward step. Each aperture contains a drinking vessel with its rim flush with the surrounding tray. An amount of liquid sufficient to fill all the vessels up to a level just below the rim is poured into the tray flooding the central area vessels; the tray is tilted to allow excess liquid to run over the step and the tray is rotated to fill all the vessels to the same level.