Ampule transfer unit

An ampule transfer device, provided between a first station and a second station located at a lower level than the first station, for receiving ampules from the first station and delivering the ampules to the second station, said ampule transfer device comprising a stocker and a first drive unit for moving said stocker up and down,

• said stocker comprising a base member having a first edge, an end member coupled to said base member so as to be movable between a closed position and an open position relative to said base member, a second drive unit for moving said end member between said closed and open positions, a lid member having a second edge and coupled to said end member so as to be movable relative to said end member between a closed position and an open position, said end member and said lid member being arranged such that said second edge engages said first edge when said end member and said lid member are in their respective closed positions, and disengages from said first edge when said end member is moved from its closed position toward its open position by said second drive unit, thereby forming an opening between said first and second edges,
• wherein said lid member is adapted to be movable toward its open position when said second edge disengages from said first edge, thereby widening said opening between said first and second edges.