Abstract: A filling unit for contact or contactless filling an article is disclosed. The filling unit includes a tank comprising: a first valve, which may allow or prevent the fluidic connection between a first region of the tank and the article; a first fluidic line which extends from the tank to the article in case of contact filling; a second valve, which may allow or prevent the flow along the first fluidic line; and a control unit configured to set the first valve in a first closed configuration and the second valve in a second open configuration in case of contact filling. The filling unit further includes a second fluidic line distinct from the first fluidic line and extends from the inner volume of the article to a discharge area distinct from the tank; and a third valve, which may allow or prevent the flow along the second fluidic line.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing infant formula to be supplied to a bottle, and methods and circuits for operating the same, are disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing having a shape for integrating together components of the apparatus. A fluid reservoir for holding fluid and configured to be coupling to the housing is provided. Further provided is a formula disc disposed at a first location of the housing. The first location defined above a dispense location of the bottle, and the formula disc having a top end and a dispense end, the formula disc further includes a plurality of slots for holding the infant formula in a powder state. The apparatus has an end plate that is coupled to the dispense end of the formula disc, and the end plate has a dispense hole, such that the end plate is rotatable relative to the formula disc.

Abstract: White-pigmented and unpigmented base paints and stains are custom-tinted using an automated colorant dispenser having a minimum fluid dispensing quantity less than 0.01 fluid ounce (<0.3 cm3) and an array of colorants including a green-hued colorant having a color strength greater than that of a comparison colorant containing 12 wt. % PG7 pigment, a blue-hued colorant having a color strength greater than that of a comparison colorant containing 7 wt. % PB15:2 pigment, and a red-hued colorant having a color strength greater than that of a comparison colorant containing 17 wt. % PR209 pigment. The green-hued or blue-hued colorants are dispensed into the base paint or stain whenever a green-hued or blue-hued tint is required. Light pastel tints in small containers and strong colors in large containers may be prepared without requiring the use of additional colorants having the same general hue and lower color strength.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for filling multi-chamber containers with different loose bulk materials. The apparatus and method may be particularly well-suited to packaging at least one bulk material, which is susceptible to water, chemicals, or other contaminants, with at least one other bulk material. The apparatus is a machine that includes separate hoppers for handling the separate bulk materials, and directs the separate bulk materials into different chambers of a multi-chamber container, which is then transported away from the machine for storage or use. The machine may include one or more movable hoppers supported on tracks, for moving the bulk materials to the hoppers that direct the bulk materials into different chambers of the multi-chamber container. A controller and data logger may be provided to control the apparatus and record the quantity and/or weight of the contents of each multi-chamber container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for filling a tank with pressurized gas, particularly hydrogen in the tank of a vehicle, using a filling station that comprises: a plurality of buffer containers for containing the pressurized gas and filling the tank through successive pressure balancing phases; a device for generating a pressurized gas and for filling said buffer containers from a fluid source; wherein the method comprises a tank filling step by gas transfer from a buffer container and simultaneously by gas transfer directly from the source via the gas generation device, characterized in that the pressurized-gas generation device includes a compressor connected to the buffer containers and in that the compressor supplies gas to the tank from a gas source including a first buffer container for at least part of a pressure balancing phase between at least one second buffer container and a tank, the buffer containers being successively used as sources by the compressor after being used for pressure balancing wi

Abstract: An injecting device for filling a holder with separated liquid layers is provided herein. The device includes at least two containers for holding different liquids, an injector for filling a holder with separated liquid layers and moving means for setting the distance between the holder and the injector. A method for filling a holder with separated liquid layers is also provided. The method includes the steps of placing a holder with bottom, disposing inside the holder, and at a predetermined distance from the bottom of the holder, a feed conduit with an outflow opening for dispensing liquid, and allowing different liquids to flow sequentially out of the feed conduit, wherein the distance between the outflow opening and the bottom is maintained.

Abstract: A filling element includes a housing that forms a first dispensing opening. The first dispensing opening and a second dispensing opening provide corresponding filling jets. These jets combine to create a new jet for entry into a container to be filled. The first dispensing opening is offset outward radially opposite the second dispensing opening.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of manufacturing and distributing a cleaning solution for use in a vehicle washing facility. The method includes receiving pre-measured raw chemical material at a distributor's facility, diluting the pre-measured raw chemical material using a mixing apparatus at the distributor's facility to form a cleaning solution, packaging at least a portion of the cleaning solution into containers at the distributor's facility, and delivering at least one of the containers from the distributor's facility directly to the vehicle washing facility.

Abstract: The invention relates to a paint mixing machine comprising a body (1), a plurality of containers (3) fixed with respect to the body and containing a pigment paste to be dosed into a paint pot (2), for each container, dosing equipment fixed with respect to the body for dosing paste contained in each container into the paint pot via nozzles (4) of the dosing equipment, and means for using the dosing equipment, wherein a robot (6) is arranged beneath the dosing nozzles (4) for moving the paint pot (2) along the robot's freely selected paths in a space coordinates system at least in relation to a currently selected dosing nozzle (4).

Abstract: Apparatus for the delivery of fluid products comprising a base, a base support associated thereof, a plurality of dispensing units to dispense the fluid products contained in containing receptacles. The dispensing units are disposed on a platform rotatable with respect to the base support so as to assume at least a first position in which the fluid products can be delivered from the receptacles toward a container. The apparatus also comprises sliding means which allow the rotation of the platform. Rapid connection means are provided so as to achieve the connection of the base support with the base and/or with the sliding means in order to achieve a selective stable coupling and to prevent a reciprocal vertical movement.

Abstract: A method for dispensing compressed gas from two or more compressed gas storage volumes to receiving vessel such as vehicle fuel tanks. Control instructions are provided to cycle the compressed gas storage volumes through pressure cycles in a rolling rotating cascading manner such that each of the compressed gas storage volumes cycle from an upper pressure limit to a lower pressure limit.

Abstract: A device for simultaneously filling at least two foods of different compositions, predominantly in a thick fluid and/or pasty form, into a container, particularly a transparent plastic cup, having a valve head with a nozzle inlet opening and nozzle outlet openings for the food and fed by dosing devices, wherein the controller has a control disc (23) rotatable about a longitudinal axis (22) in the valve head (1) having control openings (25a, 25b, 25c) distributed about said longitudinal axis (22) on a first control circuit path (24), said control openings being alignable during an incremental rotation of the control disc (23) alternating in succession with auxiliary nozzle inlet openings (26a, 26b, 26c) of a stationary control surface (27) of the valve head (1) lying below in a planar manner, wherein auxiliary nozzle inlet openings (26a, 26b, 26c) are arranged on a second control circuit path (24?) congruent with the first control circuit path about the longitudinal axis (22) in the control surface (27) such t

Abstract: A storage and dispensing container includes: a housing having a bottom plate with a feed opening defined therein, and a generally cylindrical outer wall extending around an outer periphery of the bottom plate; a funnel disposed at a lower end of the housing, in flow communication with the feed opening; a drum having an outer wall defining an interior that is partitioned into at least two chambers which are open at upper and lower ends thereof, the wall including a cylindrical portion which is coupled to the outer wall of the housing, such that the drum is rotatable relative to the housing; and a removable cap which closes off the upper end of the drum.

Abstract: A medical liquid filling system and associated methods are provided, the system comprising a disposable and a drive system. The disposable includes a tubular member and a piston slidably disposed within the tubular member for retraction and advancement within at least a first portion of the tubular member. The disposable may include a seal member for sealing the first portion of the tubular member and may be interconnected to the piston for co-movement therewith. The drive system may include a piston drive member selectively interconnectable to the piston for driven advancement and retraction of the piston within the tubular member. The drive system may be interconnected to a controller, which may be operable to automate or semi-automate various filling operations. A user interface may be interconnected to the controller for providing input of various system operation parameters, which may be communicated to the controller to facilitate automated or semi-automated operation of the filling system.

Abstract: A system for charging pressurized aerosol cans with liquid is provided combining a disposable syringe and filling machine. The syringe is loaded with a liquid, then placed in the filling machine and connected to the inlet of the pressurized container. The filling machine is activated and an electric motor or a hydraulic piston exerts force on the syringe to inject the liquid into the aerosol container.

Abstract: A filling machine with at least one volumetric metering system which comprises a cylinder provided with a piston driven by electric or pneumatic actuation device connected to a parametrisable control unit of the machine, and provided within the lower portion with a first suction opening connected by a first suction duct to a first storage tank, with a second inlet opening connected by a second suction duct to a second tank, and with a discharge opening connected by a discharge duct to a filling nozzle. Valve systems formed of clack valves are mounted in the suction ducts and on the filling nozzle, each valve system being driven individually for opening and for closing by individual electric and/or pneumatic actuation device connected to the control unit of the machine.

Abstract: A custom color paint or stain tinting system employs at least one light-colored non-infrared-absorptive base paint or stain packaged in a point-of-sale container and an array of colorants including an infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant, a non-infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant, and one or more additional liquid colorants made with non-infrared-absorptive pigments. The infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant or non-infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant may respectively be used to make custom-tinted interior or exterior paints and stains.

Abstract: A paint formulation and dispensing apparatus for mixing paint from a can having an open top and to a receiving can. The apparatus includes a dispensing lid attached to the paint can so that the lid overlies the open top of the paint can. The lid includes a spout and a reservoir having a plunger slidably disposed in it such that the position of the plunger determines the volume of the reservoir. A valve is disposed in a passageway in the lid and is movable between a first position in which the valve fluidly connects the passageway to the reservoir, and a second position in which the valve fluidly connects the reservoir to the spout. A weight scale is positioned below the spout and the receiving can is positioned on the weight scale. The weight scale generates an electronic signal to a programmed processor which generates output signals to control both the position of the valve as well as the position of an actuator which engages the plunger.

Abstract: A system and method for producing a customizable personal skincare liquid product in a portable dispenser are disclosed herein. The system includes a processor, a memory, a supply of portable dispensers, a supply of a base liquid material, and a supply of additional substances. A user provides selections and instructions to the system. The system mixes the base liquid material with one or more of the additional substances in the portable dispenser to create a customizable personal skincare liquid product according to the user specifications.

Abstract: An automated syringe filler is disclosed comprising a housing and motor with a rotatable syringe holder plate that can be raised and lowered onto exposed syringe needles. The housing also has components for one or more syringes to be attached with the needles pointing upward and the syringe plungers moveably positioned at the bottom. The syringe plunger tool controls the movement of the syringe plunger and can be horizontally and vertically positionable. The syringe plunger tool is motorized and can be controlled by a CPU or similar device containing programmable media.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing system comprising a dispensing device including a dispensing valve for dispensing a beverage, an actuator for initiating the dispensing of said beverage through said valve, a display screen having a user interface being coupled to said dispensing device, wireless communication electronics coupled to said beverage dispensing system and adapted to communicate with a wireless transponder and a controller functionally connected to said at least one dispensing valve, said display screen and said wireless communication electronics.

Abstract: Filling system for filling bottles or similar containers with a liquid consisting of a main component and at least one additional component, said system comprising a plurality of filling elements in which the additional component(s) is/are supplied in controlled quantities via at least one mixing line per filling element in order to be mixed with the main component in the filling element.

Abstract: A paint creation and dispensing system includes a variety of components for creating paint of a selected color and paint type and for processing payment for the paint. The system may be configured to receive a color selection in a variety of ways including through customer selection and via an electronic color reader (portable or stationary). The paint system may allow a customer to obtain an amount (e.g., a sample or a full gallon) of paint without help from a store employee or other personnel. In one or more arrangements, the paint system may be networked so that a customer may pre-order paint, upload color selections, make a payment, and or order additional supplies of paint or other products based on the color chosen for final painting.

Abstract: An apparatus for filling containers with liquids and in particular with beverages may include a filling device, which fills the liquid into the container. The filling device has a valve device for controlling the liquid flow into the container including a first supply line for supplying a first liquid to the filling device and comprising a second supply line for supplying a second liquid to the filling device, wherein the first supply line and the second supply line are separate from one another at least in some sections. The apparatus may have a control device configured in such a way that, at the start and at the end of a filling process for a container, this container is filled only with the first liquid.

Abstract: A custom color paint or stain tinting system employs at least one light-colored non-infrared-absorptive base paint or stain packaged in a point-of-sale container and an array of colorants including an infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant, a non-infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant, and one or more additional liquid colorants made with non-infrared-absorptive pigments. The infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant or non-infrared-absorptive black liquid colorant may respectively be used to make custom-tinted interior or exterior paints and stains.

Abstract: A filling apparatus for serially filling multiple lanes of containers includes a plurality of piston pumps which receive flowable product from an associated source. Each pump includes a reciprocably movable pump piston, which can “float” upwardly during a filling stroke, as each pump is filled with product delivered thereto under pressure. The pump pistons can move upwardly independently, until each reaches a predetermined position, corresponding to the quantity of product with which each container is to be filled. After all of the pistons reach their respective predetermined positions, valves of the pumps are simultaneously operated, and the pistons simultaneously stroked so that respective containers are filled with the flowable product. The multiple lanes of containers are thereafter indexed, and the filling cycle repeated.

Abstract: Methods and systems for blending multiple batches of mixed hydrocarbons into fuel streams downstream of the refinery are provided that do not compromise the octane value of the fuel and do not cause the volatility of the fuel to exceed volatilities imposed by government regulation.

Abstract: A custom color paint or stain tinting system employs a dark-colored non-infrared-absorptive liquid base paint or stain and a point-of-sale array of concentrated liquid colorants which when dispensed into the base paint or stain provide custom-tinted non-infrared-absorptive paints or stains in lightened shades and a variety of tints. Dark custom-tinted paints or stains are tinted lighter from a dark-colored base, not darker from a white or light colored base as is done in conventional point-of-sale systems.

Abstract: A device for the introduction of air and/or sealant into a tire, in particular a motor vehicle tire, having an electric pump or compressor, an electric connection cable for the pump or compressor which has a connection element, in particular a plug, at its end for the connection of the connection cable to a power supply, in particular to the cigarette lighter of a motor vehicle, having a hose for the air and/or the sealant which is or can be connected to the electric pump or compressor and whose other end can be connected to the tire to be filled, and having a housing for the reception of at least some of the device components, wherein the housing has in each case a separate receiver for the connection cable, on the one hand, and the connection element of the connection cable, on the other hand to improve the handling of the device.

Abstract: An automated medication preparation system for preparing a prescribed dosage of medication in a drug delivery device includes a plurality of stations for receiving, handling and processing the drug delivery device so that the prescribed dosage of medication is delivered to the drug delivery device and a transporting device that receives and holds more than one drug delivery device and moves the drug delivery devices in a controlled manner from one station to another station. The system is configured so that two or more separate drug delivery devices can be acted upon at the same time.

Abstract: Device for filling a container with a gas under pressure comprising at least one source of gas pressurized to a first pressure, a transfer circuit capable of selectively connecting the source or sources of pressurized gas to the tank to be filled, the transfer circuit comprising control members for controlling the flow of the gas from the source or sources to the tank, the transfer circuit further including at least one cooling exchanger for cooling the pressurized gas comprising a hot flow circuit for the pressurized gas to be cooled, a cold flow circuit for a cold cooling fluid, and a refrigeration hold-over medium being in direct heat exchange with the cold fluid of the cold circuit and with the pressurized gas to be cooled of the hot circuit, in order to selectively carry out indirect heat exchange between the pressurized gas and the cold fluid, wherein the refrigeration hold-over medium forms and fills a gap between the cold fluid of the cold circuit and the pressurized gas of the hot circuit, the gap ha

Abstract: An electronic apparatus comprises a main apparatus portion, a unique identification device for attachment in close proximity to the main apparatus portion and an interrogation system provided as part of the main apparatus portion for wirelessly interrogating the identification device such that the main apparatus portion function is enabled only when in close proximity to the identification device. The identification device is adapted to be made disfunctional by detachment or attempted detachment. In this arrangement, the main apparatus portion is the normal electronic apparatus to be protected from theft. It is provided with an interrogation system so that it can be made to cease functioning if not in close proximity to the identification device.

Abstract: A soft drink container includes a plurality of the additive storage containers, a plurality of additive contents contained in the additive storage containers, an additive storage selector, a base storage container containing at least one base liquid, and a mechanism operable to release the additive contents into the base liquid storage. The plurality of additive contents may include at least one of salts, spices, flavoring, color agents, odors, fragrances, vitamins, thickeners, enhancers, fruit distillers, preservatives and vitamins. The additive storage selector is operable to separately align each of the plurality of additive storage containers with an opening of the base storage container and is operable to release a selected additive content into the base liquid container. The additive storage selector may further include a piercer operable to pierce the base storage container.

Abstract: An auto-filling assembly for a refillable sprayer has a base device, a controlling device and a filling device. The base device has a base, an oil tank and a connecting jacket. The connecting jacket is mounted on the base and has a connecting disk, a switch and an engaging mount. The controlling device is connected to the base device and has an inlet valve, a first linking valve, a gas-controlling valve, a second linking valve and a triple valve. The filling device is mounted on the base device, is connected to the controlling device and has a storage bottle, a release valve and a mechanical valve. The auto-filling assembly can be used to fill pressurized gas and oil into a refillable sprayer conveniently and automatically.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for changeover of containers of a highly soluble substance in a continuous flow process, fluid is flowed through a container of the substance to generate a solution until the substance is depleted and the concentration of the solution starts to drop. The solution from the first container is then directed through a second container containing a charge of the substance to maintain a saturated solution. When the first container is fully exhausted, the flow of fluid is switched to isolate the first container and to flow the fluid directly into the second container whereupon the first container can be safely removed. The arrangement is operated as a lead lag system with solution flowing through the containers at or close to plug flow to minimize mixing.

Abstract: A kit for repairing and inflating inflatable items comprises a housing, a compressor assembly housed within the housing, a connecting device having an inlet connected to the compressor assembly and a seat adapted to be fluidically connected to a container assembly for a sealing liquid and to the inlet, a valve configured to be opened automatically when the container assembly is connected to the connection device and elastically maintained in a first position such as to fluidically disconnect the inlet from the seat when the container assembly is disconnected from the connecting device, and a flexible tube fluidically connected to the compressor assembly. In particular, the connecting device comprises an outlet fluidically connected to the valve so as to be fluidically connected to the inlet when the valve is in the first position, and in that the flexible tube is connected to the outlet.

Abstract: An apparatus for filling liquids and in particular beverages into containers, including a filling device for filling the liquid into the containers, including a liquid line which supplies the liquid to the filling device, wherein the liquid in the liquid line flows in a first flow direction and wherein a flow measuring device is disposed in the liquid line, which flow measuring device determines the quantity of the liquid passing through the flow measuring device in the first flow direction. According to the invention, the flow measuring device is designed in such a way that it also determines the quantity of the liquid passing through the flow metering device in a second flow direction which is opposite to the first flow direction.

Abstract: Methods and systems for selectively fuelling a vehicle are provided. One example method of fuelling a vehicle may include receiving a fuel in a fuel reservoir in the vehicle, and directing the fuel to one of a plurality of storage tanks based on a fuel type. In one example, the directing of fuel may include adjusting one or more fuelling valves positioned between the fuel reservoir and the plurality of storage tanks to vary a direction of fuel flow to the plurality of storage tanks.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling insulating glass units with one or more insulating gases (e.g., Argon and Krypton gas). The insulating gases are supplied to gas filling tubes that are inserted into one or more interpane spaces of the insulating glass units. Each interpane space may be filled with more than one insulating gas. A control unit controls the injection of the insulating gases in accordance with gas filling data received by the control unit.

Abstract: An automatic dye-meter (1) is described, composed of at least one first compartment (3) for stocking and storing a plurality of bottles (5) containing the dyeing components, each one of such bottles (5) being equipped with at least one plug equipped with pumping means for such component, such bottles (5) being arranged inside such first compartment (3) according to a known order, at least one second compartment (7) for batching such components from such bottles (5) to obtain a final dyeing compound inside at least one mixing container (9) arranged inside such second compartment (7), handling means (11) adapted to take at least one of such bottles (5) from such first compartment (3), transport such bottle (5) from such first compartment (3) to such second compartment (7), incline such bottle (5), actuate such pumping means to allow pouring and batching such component inside such mixing container (9), and take back such bottle (5) inside such first compartment (3).

Abstract: Methods and systems for blending multiple batches of mixed hydrocarbons into fuel streams downstream of the refinery are provided that do not compromise the octane value of the fuel and do not cause the volatility of the fuel to exceed volatilities imposed by government regulation.

Abstract: A medicine mixing device includes a pedestal, a main rotating-base, a sub rotating-base, and a control unit. The pedestal is used to place medicine containers thereon. The main rotating-base includes a holding portion and a main rotating shaft, and rotates around the main rotating shaft. The holding portion holds a syringe for sucking a medicine at its center on its vertical plane. The main rotating shaft is orthogonal to the vertical plane. The sub rotating-base is disposed close to a part of the circumference of the main-rotating base and rotates relatively with respect to the main rotating-base. The sub rotating-base includes a fixing unit and a sub rotating shaft parallel to the main rotating shaft. The fixing unit fixes thereto one medicine container selected from the medicine containers on the pedestal. The control unit controls a medicine to be sucked out of the medicine container into the syringe.

Abstract: A liquid metering device that dispenses liquid into an adjacent reservoir at a precise ratio relative to the total volume of the adjacent reservoir as the reservoir is filled with liquid. The hydrostatic dispensing system includes an additive reservoir, a calibrated dispensing vessel, a hydrostatic pressure chamber, a pressure limiter, and a three-way valve that passively arms and dis-arms the system.

Abstract: A dispensing system for granular materials, in particular agricultural products, capable of dispensing multiple products that comprises a control means for entering a product formula, hoppers that contain material for formulating the product each having a dispensing means controlled by the control means, material is fed from each hopper through a tube and fed into a housing having a rotatable structure that allows the material to be dispensed into a receptacle connected to a weighing means and weighed and feedback means connected to the weighing means and to the control means feeds weight information to the control means which adjusts the dispensing of the material from each of the hoppers as necessary to accurately formulate a product.

Abstract: A multi-station liquid mixing and dispensing apparatus. The apparatus includes a housing that defines a first pocket for supporting a first container and a second pocket for supporting a second container, a first door pivotably coupled to the housing and enclosing the first pocket, and a second door pivotably coupled to the housing opposite the first door. The first door includes a first window through which the first container can be identified. The second door encloses the second pocket and includes a second window through which the second container can be identified. The apparatus also includes a valve coupled to the housing to control flow of chemical concentrate to at least one of the first container and the second container.

Abstract: A station for reloading a sprayer is disclosed that includes a tank coupled to at least one coating material circuit by a coupler, a docking unit that is adapted to receive a sprayer; and at least one accumulator having a volume that is greater than or equal to the volume of the tank. Each accumulator is connected to at least one circuit by the coupler. The station also includes a mechanism for pressurizing the accumulator. The accumulator is connected to the docking unit which is, in turn, connected to the tank.

Abstract: A distribution apparatus for media and, in particular, for beverages may include a vessel suitable for holding the media, a first supply line which supplies the vessel with a first, liquid medium, and a second supply line which supplies the vessel with a second, gaseous medium. The first supply line and the second supply line are arranged in a stationary manner with respect to one another and the vessel is arranged such that it can rotate with respect to the first supply line and the second supply line. The first supply line and the second supply line open into the vessel in a region of the vessel which is above a filling level of the first, liquid medium.

Abstract: Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed.

Abstract: In one embodiment there is provided a system for recalculating a formula previously used in preparing a mixture made from adding at least two components. The system includes a control apparatus and scale. The control apparatus has a memory for storing the mixture formula. The scale, in communication with the control apparatus, allows the control apparatus to monitor a weight on the scale, such that a final weight of the mixture is stored on the memory. When an end weight of the mixture, defined to be the final weight of the mixture previously prepared minus an amount used by a user, is positioned back on the scale and when the control apparatus receives a recalculation signal, the control apparatus calculates the amount used, recalculates the mixture based on the amount used, and stores a new mixture for subsequent use.

Abstract: A semi-automatic benchtop filling system that allows the user to switch between pump technologies while utilizing one base unit. The base unit is outfitted to accommodate peristaltic, lobe, gear, and piston pumps providing a maximum amount of flexibility and versatility in one unit. The base unit employs a computerized servo motor control system and docking hardware for driving any of the four different pump types. The system is designed to automate the filling of sample containers regardless of which pump is mounted by tare weighting, and the drive will adjust itself to dispense the correct weight. The pump drive includes appropriate reduction gearing and quick disconnect flexible couplings for each of the different pump types, a side-mounted adapter for connecting any of the peristaltic, gear and lobe pumps, and a separate piston drive assembly and dock-connector at the rear for a piston pump.