Abstract: An apparatus (10) for simultaneously applying individual outserts to multiple containers of pharmaceuticals includes a conveyor (12) for advancing the containers along an input path and magazines (22) containing the outserts. The containers are stopped in groups by a gate assembly (18) opposite to a transfer assembly (20) including a rotatable pick up arm (72) mounted for reciprocation between a retracted position adjacent to the magazines (22) and an extended position adjacent to the container input path. Vacuum cups (76) are provided on the pick up arm (72) for engaging the outserts, and pinion and a drive pin arrangement (100, 102) is utilized to control rotation of the pick up arm to reorient the outserts only during an intermediate portion of travel between linear motion at the extended and retracted positions to facilitate proper engagement between the outserts and the vacuum cups.

Abstract: An article-handling apparatus (10) for moving a single sheet or piece of material from a pile or tray thereof to a subsequent station is disclosed. The article-handling apparatus (10) is comprised of a drive shaft (16) and a plurality of support shafts (20) rotatably held by bearing mechanisms (2) on a hub (24) attached to the drive shaft (16). The support shafts (20) have axes substantially parallel to and spaced regularly from and about the drive shaft (16). The support shafts (20) have sprockets (26) attached to one end thereof for engagement with pins (18) fastened to support member (14) and regularly spaced along the circumference of a circle concentric to the drive shaft. Suction cup mechanisms (28) are adjustably clamped to the other end of support shafts (20).A vacuum pump is in fluid communication with suction cup mechanisms (28) through a valve body (32).