SP offers a uniquely simple, yet effective, method of loading vials into the tunnel. The key here is to keep positive control over the vials at all times. Unlike “reverse funnels” and timing screws, vials are collected from the vial washer into a “pack” before gently being pushed into the tunnel by an oscillating pushing block. No format parts are required and the pushing motion is part of the vial recipe in the PLC. This is essentially a set-it-and-forget-it automatic process requiring no operator intervention.