US20110127269A1 - Vial with non-round seal - Google Patents

Vial with non-round seal Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20110127269A1
US20110127269A1 US12/992,749 US99274909A US2011127269A1 US 20110127269 A1 US20110127269 A1 US 20110127269A1 US 99274909 A US99274909 A US 99274909A US 2011127269 A1 US2011127269 A1 US 2011127269A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
container
lid
platform
insert
dispensing opening
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
US12/992,749
Inventor
Michael Bucholtz
Ronald Supranowicz
John Belfance
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
CSP Technologies Inc
CSP Technology North America LLC
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=41319364&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20110127269(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US12/992,749 priority Critical patent/US20110127269A1/en
Publication of US20110127269A1 publication Critical patent/US20110127269A1/en
Assigned to CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. reassignment CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: BELFANCE, JOHN, BUCHOLTZ, MICHAEL, SUPRANOWICZ, RONALD
Assigned to GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS AGENT reassignment GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS AGENT PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Assigned to CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT reassignment CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Assigned to CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., CAPITOL CUPS, INC., CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C, CAPITOL MEDICAL DEVICES, INC., CV PARTNERS, Total Innovative Packaging, Inc. reassignment CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION
Assigned to CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., CAPITOL CUPS, INC., CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C, CAPITOL MEDICAL DEVICES, INC., CV PARTNERS, Total Innovative Packaging, Inc. reassignment CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP
Assigned to CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC reassignment CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C.
Assigned to BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT reassignment BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CAPITOL CUPS, INC., CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC (F/K/A CV HOLDINGS, LLC), CV PARTNERS, Total Innovative Packaging, Inc.
Priority to US15/649,815 priority patent/US10232986B2/en
Assigned to CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., CAPITOL CUPS, INC., CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., Total Innovative Packaging, Inc., CV PARTNERS, CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC (F/K/A CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C.) reassignment CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC. RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D43/00Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D43/14Non-removable lids or covers
    • B65D43/16Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
    • B65D43/162Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container, the lid and the hinge being made of one piece
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/50Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
    • B01L3/508Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes rigid containers not provided for above
    • B01L3/5082Test tubes per se
    • B01L3/50825Closing or opening means, corks, bungs
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29CSHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C39/00Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C39/02Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
    • B29C39/021Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles by casting in several steps
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/24Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
    • B65D81/26Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/24Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
    • B65D81/26Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators
    • B65D81/266Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators for absorbing gases, e.g. oxygen absorbers or desiccants
    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01NINVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N33/00Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
    • G01N33/48Biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Haemocytometers
    • G01N33/483Physical analysis of biological material
    • G01N33/487Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material
    • G01N33/4875Details of handling test elements, e.g. dispensing or storage, not specific to a particular test method
    • G01N33/48778Containers specially adapted therefor, e.g. for dry storage
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2200/00Solutions for specific problems relating to chemical or physical laboratory apparatus
    • B01L2200/06Fluid handling related problems
    • B01L2200/0689Sealing
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2200/00Solutions for specific problems relating to chemical or physical laboratory apparatus
    • B01L2200/14Process control and prevention of errors
    • B01L2200/141Preventing contamination, tampering
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2200/00Solutions for specific problems relating to chemical or physical laboratory apparatus
    • B01L2200/14Process control and prevention of errors
    • B01L2200/142Preventing evaporation
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/04Closures and closing means
    • B01L2300/041Connecting closures to device or container
    • B01L2300/043Hinged closures
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/06Auxiliary integrated devices, integrated components
    • B01L2300/0609Holders integrated in container to position an object
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/08Geometry, shape and general structure
    • B01L2300/0809Geometry, shape and general structure rectangular shaped
    • B01L2300/0825Test strips
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/12Specific details about materials
    • B01L2300/123Flexible; Elastomeric
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01LCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L9/00Supporting devices; Holding devices
    • B01L9/52Supports specially adapted for flat sample carriers, e.g. for plates, slides, chips
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29CSHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C43/00Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding material; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C43/02Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding material; Apparatus therefor of articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
    • B29C43/14Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding material; Apparatus therefor of articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles in several steps
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2251/00Details relating to container closures
    • B65D2251/20Sealing means
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00018Overall construction of the lid
    • B65D2543/00064Shape of the outer periphery
    • B65D2543/0012Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners
    • B65D2543/00129Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners two straight sides and at least one curved side
    • B65D2543/00148Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners two straight sides and at least one curved side with two curved sides
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00018Overall construction of the lid
    • B65D2543/00259Materials used
    • B65D2543/00296Plastic
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00481Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
    • B65D2543/00537Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the outside, or a part turned to the outside of the mouth of the container
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00564Contact between the container and the lid indirect by means of a gasket or similar intermediate ring
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00592Snapping means
    • B65D2543/00601Snapping means on the container
    • B65D2543/00611Profiles
    • B65D2543/00629Massive bead
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00592Snapping means
    • B65D2543/00601Snapping means on the container
    • B65D2543/00675Periphery concerned
    • B65D2543/00685Totality
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00592Snapping means
    • B65D2543/00712Snapping means on the lid
    • B65D2543/00722Profiles
    • B65D2543/0074Massive bead
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00592Snapping means
    • B65D2543/00712Snapping means on the lid
    • B65D2543/00787Periphery concerned
    • B65D2543/00796Totality
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00824Means for facilitating removing of the closure
    • B65D2543/00833Integral tabs, tongues, handles or similar
    • B65D2543/00842Integral tabs, tongues, handles or similar outside of the lid
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00953Sealing means
    • B65D2543/00962Sealing means inserted

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to containers that can be used, for example, to house test strips, pills, capsules, particulate materials, liquids, or other objects or materials and control the ingress and/or egress of moisture.
  • This patent application discloses technology related to that of U.S. Ser. No. 29/318,272, filed May 16, 2008. That patent application is incorporated here by reference.
  • Cylindrical containers are described in the following patents as being “leak-proof:” U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,783,056, 4,812,116, RE 37,676 and 6,303,064. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,769,558 and 7,198,161 and European patent 1 220 794, all to the present inventor, disclose a leakproof, resealable cylindrical container and cap assembly. The disclosure of the processes of producing injection molded plastic containers and sealing them are incorporated by reference herein.
  • An aspect of the invention is a moisture proof, resealable non-cylindrical container and lid assembly.
  • the term “resealable” means that the closure can be closed at least once after the container is opened for the first time. Preferably, the closure can be opened and closed additional times after the initial opening to remove all of the contents.
  • the container has a body having an interior space, defined by a generally tubular sidewall.
  • the body has a lid, and the lid and body have a non-round seal that is substantially moisture proof when the lid is seated on the body, meaning that when sealed the container admits less than 1000 micrograms per day of water determined by a moisture ingress test method.
  • the container optionally is sized as a pharmaceutical package enclosing between 1 and 500 ml of interior volume, alternatively between 10 and 200 ml of interior volume, alternatively between 20 and 100 ml of internal volume.
  • the body has a generally tubular sidewall with first and second axially opposed ends, a base, and a dispensing opening axially spaced from the base and at least adjacent to the second end.
  • the interior space is disposed generally within the sidewall and at least generally between the base and the dispensing opening.
  • the sidewall has a cross-section having a major diameter and a minor diameter, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the sidewall cross-section is a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive.
  • the container has a non-round body sealing surface located on the body and disposed about the dispensing opening, the body sealing surface having a major diameter and a minor diameter, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive.
  • the lid is configured to seat on the body. There is a lid sealing surface located on the lid.
  • the body sealing surface and the lid sealing surface are configured to mate to form a seal between the lid and the body when the lid is seated on the body.
  • the lid and lid sealing surface at least substantially close the dispensing opening and isolate the interior space from ambient conditions.
  • An insert communicates with the interior space of the container and reinforces at least a portion of the body sealing surface against inward deflection along an axis defined by the minor diameter when the lid is seated on the body.
  • the container has a moisture ingress rate of the container having a moisture ingress rate of 100-1000 micrograms per day, optionally 200-700 micrograms per day, optionally 380-700 micrograms per day, optionally 400-700 micrograms per day, optionally 250-400 micrograms per day, optionally less than 300 micrograms per day, at 80% relative humidity and 72° F. (22.2° C.).
  • the interior space is defined at least in part by an interior surface made of a desiccant material.
  • the interior space is defined at least in part by a reinforcement stiffening the container against deflection along the minor axis.
  • the reinforcement is an insert assembled with the container.
  • the insert is secured to the container by an interference fit between the insert and the inner wall of the container.
  • the insert is made of a desiccant material.
  • the insert is disposed within the container.
  • the insert is a liner generally following the inner wall of the container.
  • At least one of the ends of the container has an interior portion made of desiccant material.
  • the sidewall has an interior portion made of desiccant material.
  • the lid has an interior portion made of desiccant material.
  • At least a portion of the desiccant material is located in the interior space.
  • At least a portion of the desiccant is a particulate material.
  • At least a portion of the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more sachets.
  • At least a portion of the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more canisters.
  • At least a portion of the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more pellets.
  • the container further comprises a sleeve of desiccant material disposed within the body and at least partially defining the interior space.
  • the sleeve is integrally formed with at least one of the sidewall and an end wall.
  • the container further comprises a tether linking the container body and lid.
  • the tether comprises a hinge.
  • the tether comprises an integral hinge.
  • the hinge is configured to orient the lid to seat on the body when the lid and body are pivoted together.
  • the hinge defines a pivot axis that is generally perpendicular to the major axis.
  • the hinge defines a pivot axis that is generally parallel to the major axis.
  • the hinge extends from the sidewall at least adjacent to the end of the major axis.
  • the hinge extends from the sidewall at least adjacent to the end of the minor axis.
  • the body is at least generally oval in cross-section.
  • the body is at least generally polygonal in cross-section.
  • the body is at least generally rectangular in cross-section.
  • the body has at least one rounded corner.
  • At least a portion of the dispensing opening is defined by the second end of the sidewall.
  • the lid comprises a closed surface supporting the lid sealing surface.
  • the lid comprises a skirt surrounding and depending from the lid sealing surface.
  • the skirt is generally tubular.
  • the skirt cross-section is substantially congruent to the cross-section of the body sidewall, at least substantially defining an extension of the generally tubular sidewall when the lid is seated on the body.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 2:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 2:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 2:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.5:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.5:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 2:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 2:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 2:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • At least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the lid are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
  • the body and the lid are formed in two shots in an injection mold.
  • the respective shots are a substantially moisture blocking polymeric material and a desiccant polymeric material.
  • a dispenser for strips of material comprising a generally tubular body, a first platform, a second platform, and at least one spline.
  • the body has an interior surface and first and second axially opposed ends, at least one of the ends defining a dispensing opening.
  • the first platform extends laterally within the interior surface and positioned at the first end or between the first and second ends of the body.
  • the second platform extends laterally within the interior surface, is positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform and the dispensing opening, and defines a reservoir between the second platform and the dispensing opening and a region between the first and second platforms.
  • the spline extends axially and laterally within the reservoir and subdivides the reservoir into plural axially extending reservoirs communicating with the dispensing opening.
  • At least one open path of communication is a perforation in the second platform.
  • the desiccant material is in contact with the region.
  • the region is defined by an interior surface composed at least in part of a desiccant material.
  • At least a portion of at least one of the body interior surface, a spline, the first platform, and the second platform is composed of a desiccant material.
  • At least a portion of the body interior surface is composed of a desiccant material.
  • At least a portion of at least one spline is composed of a desiccant material.
  • At least a portion of the first platform is composed of a desiccant material.
  • At least a portion of the second platform is composed of a desiccant material.
  • the body and at least one of the first platform, the second platform, and a spline are integral.
  • the body and the first platform are integral.
  • the body and the second platform are integral.
  • the body and a spline are integral.
  • the body and each spline are integral.
  • the body and each of the first platform, the second platform, and the splines are injection molded.
  • At least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the first platform are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
  • the second platform and splines are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
  • At least a portion of the body and the first platform are formed in a first shot in an injection mold and the second platform and splines are formed in a second shot in an injection mold.
  • the portions formed in the first shot define a first part
  • the portions formed in the second shot define a second part
  • the first and second parts are joined together to define a dispenser.
  • the desiccant is a particulate material.
  • the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more sachets, canisters, or pellets.
  • first seal surface on the cap there is a first seal surface on the cap and a second seal surface on the body, the seal surfaces being mateable to at least substantially seal the dispensing opening.
  • a desiccant material disposed within the cap.
  • a sleeve of desiccant material disposed within the body and at least partially defining at least one of the reservoir and region.
  • the sleeve is integrally formed with at least one of the first and second platforms.
  • the second platform has a first portion defining a first strip reservoir.
  • the second platform further comprises a second portion non-coplanar with the first portion defining a second strip reservoir.
  • the second strip reservoir is axially longer than the first strip reservoir.
  • the body is generally oval in cross-section.
  • the splines lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending long axis of the oval.
  • the splines lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending short axis of the oval.
  • first and second axes there are perpendicular laterally extending first and second axes, further comprising one or more strips of material in at least one of the reservoirs oriented with their major faces substantially parallel to the first axis.
  • first and second axes there are perpendicular laterally extending first and second axes, further comprising one or more strips of material in at least one of the reservoirs oriented with their major faces substantially parallel to the second axis.
  • Another aspect of the invention is a method of making dispensers for objects of varying length to customize particular dispensers to dispense such objects of a particular length. The method is carried out in several steps.
  • One step is providing a first injection mold cavity adapted to form a generally tubular body having an interior surface; first and second axially opposed ends, at least one of the ends defining a dispensing opening; and a first platform extending laterally within the interior surface and positioned between the axially opposed ends of the body.
  • Another step is providing a second injection mold cavity adapted to form an insert sized and configured to fit within the generally tubular body, the insert having a second platform configured to be positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform and the dispensing opening when the insert is assembled with the body, defining a reservoir between the second platform and the dispensing opening and a region between the first and second platforms.
  • a third step is modifying at least one of the first and second injection mold cavities to place the first and second platforms of the tubular body and the insert in relative axial positions adapted to support objects of a specific length on the second platform at a predetermined position relative to the dispensing opening.
  • the second injection mold cavity is modified.
  • the first injection mold cavity is not modified to customize the dispenser.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container, shown with the lid open.
  • FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section taken along section line 2 - 2 of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-section taken along section line 3 - 3 of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 4 is an enlarged detail view of the hinge and lid sealing surface shown in FIG. 2 , modified to show the lid seated on the body.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-section similar to FIG. 3 of another embodiment.
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-section similar to FIG. 3 of yet another embodiment.
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-section of an additional embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the dispenser.
  • FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 8 .
  • FIG. 10 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 8 .
  • FIG. 11 is a section of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along section lines 11 - 11 .
  • FIG. 12 is a section of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along section lines 12 - 12 .
  • FIG. 13 is a modification of FIG. 11 , showing as an alternative a false bottom defined by the web 148 recessed in the body 126 .
  • FIG. 14 is a cutaway perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 14 .
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a desiccant insert defining another embodiment of the dispenser.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another desiccant insert defining still another embodiment of the dispenser.
  • FIG. 18 is a view similar to FIG. 15 showing other potential modifications to accommodate and uniformly present strips having different lengths.
  • FIG. 19 is a fragmentary plan view of an alternative embodiment in which the splines run perpendicular to their orientation shown in FIG. 10 .
  • FIG. 20 is a schematic sectional view of a mold cavity for forming the body of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 12 .
  • FIG. 21 is a schematic sectional view of a mold cavity for forming the insert of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 12 .
  • FIG. 22 is a sectional view of an embodiment in which the faces or major surfaces of the strips face the longer side of the generally oval vial.
  • FIG. 23 is a sectional view of an embodiment in which the faces or major surfaces of the strips face the shorter side of the generally oval vial.
  • Ref. Char. Description 10 Container 12 Body 14 Interior space 16 Body sealing surface 18 Lid 20 Lid sealing surface 22 Desiccant material 24 Generally tubular sidewall 26 First end (of 24) (base) 28 Second end (of 24) 30 Dispensing opening 32 Cross-section (of 24) 34 Major diameter (of 32) 36 Minor diameter (of 32) 38 Center (of 32) 40 Major diameter (of 16) 42 Minor diameter (of 16) 44 Body (FIG. 5) 46 Rounded corner (of 44) 47 Container (FIG.
  • U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,769,558 and 7,198,161 and European patent 1 220 794 all to the present inventor, disclose a leakproof, resealable, flip-top cylindrical container and cap assembly which comprises a cap and container attached by a hinge. A user is readily able to close the lid using the front tab on the lid.
  • Those patents are incorporated here by reference for the characteristics and dimensions of a suitable seal for a container and cap assembly.
  • the closure When forming a moisture-tight seal using the flip-top closure described in the foregoing patents, the closure exerts a compressive force about the top of the container body. A sealing relationship is formed between the closure and the container body.
  • the seal effectiveness is due to the stiffness of the container walls.
  • the walls become less stiff against inward and outward deflection along the minor axis and are not able to withstand the force exerted by the closure.
  • This lack of stiffness results in less seal integrity (i.e., a higher moisture ingress rate).
  • the seal area of the sidewall of the container or cap is particularly subject to flexing along the minor axis, where the opposed walls have the largest radius in an oval container.
  • the present inventor has further determined that this problem can be addressed by providing a reinforcement stiffening the container against deflection along the minor axis.
  • the reinforcement can be extra material in the container wall itself, but can also be provided, for example by press-fitting or otherwise incorporating an insert or liner into the container to reinforce its portions at or near the beginning and end of the minor axis.
  • the insert which also has utility to orient test strips, may be used to stiffen the sidewalls of the container.
  • a vial or container 10 including a body 12 , an interior space 14 , a body sealing surface 16 , a lid 18 , a lid sealing surface 20 , and a desiccant material 22 communicating with the interior space 14 .
  • the body 12 can have a generally tubular sidewall 24 with first and second axially opposed ends 26 and 28 and a dispensing opening 30 .
  • the dispensing opening 30 is axially spaced from the first end or base 26 and at least adjacent to the second end 28 . In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 , at least a portion of the dispensing opening 30 is defined by the second end 28 of the sidewall 24 .
  • the body 12 can have its interior space 14 disposed generally within the sidewall 24 and at least generally between the base 26 and the dispensing opening 30 .
  • the generally tubular sidewall 24 can have a cross-section 32 , best shown in FIG. 3 , having a major diameter 34 and a minor diameter 36 each passing through the center 38 .
  • the ratio between the major diameter 34 and the minor diameter 36 of the cross-section 32 can be, for example, a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter 34 and the minor diameter 36 of the cross-section 32 of the body sidewall 24 can be a value between 1.5:1 and 5:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 3:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 5:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 3:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 5:1, in each case the end points being inclusive.
  • the upper and lower limits are not critical; the point of the ratios is to provide a container 10 that is wider than it is deep, or vice versa.
  • the body 12 is at least generally oval in cross-section 32 .
  • the body can have other cross-sectional configurations.
  • the body 44 can be at least generally polygonal in cross-section, or at least generally rectangular in cross-section, and alternatively can have at least one rounded corner 46 .
  • the container can be configured as shown in the container 47 of FIG. 1 , with opposing concave and convex walls.
  • the body sealing surface 16 is not round, is located on the body 12 , and is disposed about the dispensing opening 30 .
  • the body sealing surface 16 can have a major diameter 40 and a minor diameter 42 , and the ratio between the major diameter 40 and the minor diameter 42 of the body sealing surface 16 can be a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive.
  • the ratio between the major diameter 40 and the minor diameter 42 of the body sealing surface 16 can be between 1.5:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 3:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 2:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 5:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 3:1, in each case the end points being inclusive.
  • the upper and lower limits again are not critical, and provide a non-round sealing surface.
  • the ratio of the major and minor cross-section diameters 34 and 36 can be the same as or different from the ratio of the major and minor diameters 40 and 42 of the body sealing surface 16 .
  • the shapes of the body sealing surface 16 and the cross-section 32 can be the same or different.
  • the cross-section 32 could be rectangular with rounded corners and the body sealing surface 16 could be elliptical. This is just one illustration of a possible alternative configuration.
  • the lid 18 comprises a closed surface 48 supporting the lid sealing surface 20 .
  • the lid 18 can be configured to seat on the body 12 . It can have a lid sealing surface 20 .
  • the body sealing surface 16 and the lid sealing surface 20 can be configured to mate to form a seal 50 (best seen in FIG. 4 ) between the lid 18 and the body 12 when the lid 18 is seated on the body 12 .
  • the seal 50 is formed, the lid 18 and the seal 50 defined by the sealing surfaces 16 and 20 at least substantially close the dispensing opening 30 and isolate the interior space 14 from ambient conditions.
  • the lid 18 of FIGS. 1-4 can have a generally tubular skirt 52 surrounding and depending from the lid sealing surface 20 .
  • the cross-section of the skirt 52 can be substantially congruent to the cross-section 32 of the body sidewall, at least substantially defining an extension of the generally tubular sidewall 24 when the lid 18 is seated on the body 12 , as shown in FIG. 4 .
  • a tether here configured as an integral hinge 54 , links the body 12 and the lid 18 .
  • the hinge 54 can be configured to orient the lid 18 to seat on the body 12 when the lid 18 and body 12 are pivoted together.
  • the illustrated integral hinge 54 of FIGS. 1-4 can extend from the sidewall 24 of the body 12 at least adjacent to the end of the minor axis 42 .
  • the integral hinge as illustrated defines a pivot axis 54 that can be generally parallel to the major diameter 40 .
  • the integral hinge could be displaced 90 degrees circumferentially and extend from the sidewall 24 of the body 12 at least adjacent to the end of the major diameter 40 .
  • the integral hinge could then define a pivot axis that could be generally perpendicular to the major axis 40 .
  • the integral hinge could also be displaced to an intermediate point between the ends of the major diameter 40 and minor diameter 42 , in another alternative embodiment, providing an oblique pivot axis parallel neither to the major diameter 40 nor the minor diameter 42 .
  • a non-round seal for example the seal 50 shown in FIGS. 1-4 formed by mating the non-round body sealing surface 16 and lid sealing surface 20 , does not exclude moisture as well as a round seal. Nonetheless, it may be necessary or useful to limit the amount of moisture entering or leaving the interior space 14 of the container 10 , as when the contents of the container 10 are moisture-sensitive.
  • the inventors have found that the issue of moisture sensitivity caused by a non-round seal can be addressed and at least partially alleviated if the container 10 includes a desiccant material such as 22 communicating with the interior space 14 of the container 10 when the lid 18 is seated on the body 12 .
  • suitable desiccant material 22 is the injection-moldable thermoplastic desiccant polymeric material described in one or more of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911,937; 6,214,255; 6,130,263; 6,080,350; 6,174,952; 6,124,006; and 6,221,446, all to Hekal. These patents are incorporated here by reference. Silica gel, a molecular sieve, calcium oxides or clay may also or instead be used directly as desiccants or incorporated into a desiccant material.
  • the desiccant alternatively can be a material adapted to release a gas, such as an inert gas that prevents oxidation of the enclosed medicament, a flavoring or fragrance, or moisture, in the case of a medicament that should not be allowed to dry out.
  • a gas such as an inert gas that prevents oxidation of the enclosed medicament, a flavoring or fragrance, or moisture, in the case of a medicament that should not be allowed to dry out.
  • the interior space 14 can be defined at least in part by an interior surface 58 of the body 12 made of a desiccant material 22 .
  • at least one of the ends of the container 10 here the first end 26 , also can have an interior portion 60 made of desiccant material.
  • the lid 18 can have an interior portion 48 that can be integrally molded of desiccant material 22 .
  • the interior surface 58 of desiccant 22 can be defined by a separately molded sleeve of desiccant material 22 placed within the body 12 and at least partially defining the interior space 14 . The sleeve can be integrally formed with at least one of the sidewall and an end wall.
  • At least a portion of the desiccant material 22 can located in the interior space 14 .
  • at least a portion of the desiccant 22 can be provided in the form of one or more sachets 64 , or canisters 66 , or a particulate material 68 , which can be provided as pellets or in other particulate forms.
  • a secondary seal generally indicated at 78 is disclosed for a container 80 otherwise similar to that of FIGS. 1-4 .
  • the lid 18 has an inner skirt 82 and the body 12 contains a desiccant insert 22 and a generally annular seal gasket 84 having a sealing surface 86 encircling the contents 88 of the container.
  • the inner skirt 82 has a distal or lower end 90 bearing against the seal gasket 84 , forming the seal.
  • the seal gasket 84 can be made of an elastomeric material (for example a thermoplastic elastomer, TPE.)
  • TPE thermoplastic elastomer
  • One contemplated TPE is Santoprene®, which is a registered trademark of Monsanto Company of St. Louis, Mo., U.S.A.
  • the position of the lower end 90 of the web 82 , and thus the seal 78 , can be closer to the outer skirt 52 of the lid than illustrated in FIG. 7 , which may be useful to allow more space within the inner seal 80 .
  • the gasket 86 can alternatively be reduced to just the portion beneath the lower end 90 of the inner skirt 82 , although an advantage of the illustrated embodiment is that the material of the seal gasket 84 can also isolate the top surface of the desiccant material 22 from direct contact with the environment when the container 80 is opened.
  • an elastomer may also be located along the top interior surface of the vial body 12 , such as the body sealing surface 16 , to resiliently seat against the lid sealing surface 20 .
  • a secondary sealing element can also or alternatively be formed along the inside surface of the flip-top lid 18 .
  • the secondary sealing element may be located in close proximity to the sidewall or skirt 52 of the flip-top lid 18 .
  • the secondary sealing element compresses the elastomer along the top surface of the insert to form a secondary seal, in combination with the seal according to U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,558 and other patents as previously described.
  • any one or more of the desiccant or sealing features shown in the Figures can be used individually or together, and additional embodiments deploying the desiccant or sealing elements in other ways are also contemplated.
  • the container 10 can be made in various ways.
  • the container 10 and its desiccant feature 22 can each be separately injection molded from thermoplastic material, as in a one-shot or two-shot injection process, then assembled.
  • the first mold is used to produce the flip-top vial 10 or 80 .
  • second mold an insert is molded.
  • the lid 18 and integral hinge 54 can be integrally formed in the same mold as the outer body 12 .
  • the flip-top vial lid is closed in the mold.
  • the body 12 and the desiccant polymeric material 22 can formed in two shots in one injection mold.
  • the insert is composed of two materials: a desiccant plastic 22 and an elastomeric material 84 .
  • the insert 22 and seal gasket 84 may be molded in a 2-shot injection molding process.
  • the desiccant material 22 of the insert is formed in the first shot.
  • the elastomeric material 84 is formed in the second shot.
  • the composite insert is assembled into the vial.
  • the seal material and the material of the body 12 or lid 18 can be formed in a single, two-shot mold.
  • suitable material for the outer portions of the container 10 can be polypropylene—a moisture blocking polymeric material.
  • the outer body 12 and lid 18 can be made of polypropylene, and the desiccant features such the interior portion 60 can be made of a desiccant material.
  • the container can also be made as disclosed in any of the embodiments of U.S. Ser. No. 61/053,277 or 29/318,272, which are incorporated by reference above.
  • the elastomeric material 84 forms a secondary seal along the top interior surface of the vial flip-top lid.
  • the illustrated dispenser 120 is a vial including a generally tubular body 126 and a lid 128 joined together by a hinge 130 .
  • the body 126 is generally oval or elliptical in cross-section, having a laterally extending long axis 132 (running from top to bottom in FIG. 10 ) and a laterally extending short axis 134 (running from side to side in FIG. 10 ).
  • the body 126 , lid 128 , and hinge 130 can be integrally formed, as by molding the assembly in a one-shot injection mold to form the body 126 , the lid 128 , and an integral hinge 130 simultaneously.
  • the body 126 , lid 128 , and hinge 130 can be made of any suitable material, commonly a substantially moisture-impervious material and commonly a thermoplastic material that is useful for injection molding.
  • the body 126 , lid 128 , and the hinge 130 can be made of polypropylene or polyethylene, for example, to provide good moisture protection.
  • the lid 128 and body 126 respectively have first and second sealing locations 36 and 38 which are mateable when the lid 128 is seated on the body 126 to at least substantially seal the dispensing opening 142 and minimize contact of water vapor or other environmental substances with the test strips such as 122 and 124 or other contents of the dispenser 120 .
  • the body 126 has an interior surface 140 and first and second axially opposed ends 142 and 144 , and at least one of the ends, here the end 142 , defines a dispensing opening.
  • FIGS. 10-12 in particular show various interior details of the embodiment of FIG. 8 .
  • the body 126 has a first platform 146 , in this embodiment defined by the upper surface of an integrally formed web 148 .
  • first platform 146 extends laterally within the interior surface 140 and is positioned at least substantially at the end 44 of the body.
  • the body 126 has a second platform 150 extending laterally within the interior surface 140 .
  • the second platform 150 is positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform 146 and the dispensing opening 142 .
  • the second platform 150 is defined by the upper surface of a laterally extending web 152 .
  • the second platform 150 is positioned and configured to provide adequate elevation to extend the test strips 122 , 124 beyond the top lip or dispensing opening 142 of the vial body 126 and position them within the lid 128 (when closed) without damaging the exposed ends of the test strips. Damage could occur when the lid is closed and strips such as 122 , 124 lean or bend over and get trapped between the vial body 126 and the lid 128 .
  • the end user By extending the test strips 122 , 124 beyond the dispensing opening 142 of the vial body, the end user will have substantially easier access to the test strips 122 , 124 presented to the user when the vial lid 128 is open. Since commercial test strips have many different lengths, the second platform 150 of the dispenser 120 can be easily adjusted to the test strip length to consistently be able to provide a package that presents the test strips to the consumer uniformly, regardless of the test strip length, without necessarily changing the overall length of the generally tubular body 126 .
  • first and second platforms 146 and 150 can provide a method to increase the amount of desiccant being used for enhanced shelf life protection. It is more difficult to obtain a moisture tight seal on the illustrated oval dispenser 120 than on a round dispenser.
  • the platforms allow additional desiccant to be added to the dispenser 120 for enhanced shelf life protection.
  • Oval vials also are more difficult to manufacture due to the difference in shrinkage of the primarily flat sides as opposed to the sharper corners on the ends. This non-uniform geometry causes differences in shrinkage rates compared to a round vial.
  • a reservoir generally indicated at 154 is located between the second platform 150 and the dispensing opening 142 , and a region generally indicated at 156 is located between the first and second platforms 146 and 150 .
  • At least one spline or partition 162 and in the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12 three parallel splines 162 , 164 , and 166 , extend axially and laterally within the reservoir 154 and subdivide the reservoir into plural axially extending compartments or strip reservoirs, such as 168 , 170 , 172 , and 174 , communicating with the dispensing opening 142 .
  • the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending short axis 134 of the oval.
  • the splines such as 167 and 169 could lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending long axis 132 of the oval.
  • Partitioning the reservoir 154 using splines 162 , 164 , and 166 allows discrete placement of the test strips 122 , 124 , keeping them neatly arranged and more compact than random placement. Additionally the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 assist in maintaining the test strips upright for presentation to the customer. Together with the body 126 and insert 190 , the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 position the test strips 122 , 124 away from the sealing locations 136 and 138 to prevent the test strips 122 , 124 from being lodged between the sealing locations 136 and 138 while closing the lid 128 .
  • the dispenser 120 can have an open path of communication, such as the platform perforations 176 , 178 , and 180 in the second platform 150 and web 152 , between the reservoir 154 and at least one of the strip reservoirs, such as 168 .
  • an open path of communication is provided between the reservoir 154 and each of the strip reservoirs 168 , 170 , 172 , and 174 .
  • the body 126 and at least one of the first platform 146 , the second platform 150 , and a spline such as 162 , 164 , 166 , and 168 are integral.
  • the body and the first platform are integral.
  • the body 126 includes an exterior shell 182 , which can be made of moisture-impervious material integrally formed with the first platform 146 and web 148 .
  • the dispenser of FIGS. 8-12 at least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the first platform are formed in one shot in an injection mold, forming a first part.
  • a generally tubular liner 184 is provided, here including the second platform 150 and the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 . At least a portion of the second platform 150 and the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 are formed in a single shot in an injection mold, forming a second part. The first and second parts are assembled to provide a dispenser 120 .
  • the liner 184 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8-12 has a lower end 186 that, in the illustrated embodiment, abuts the first platform 146 to locate the liner 184 precisely within the body 126 .
  • the axial distance between the second platform 150 and the dispensing opening 142 can be selected by providing a lower end 186 that is spaced a corresponding distance from the second platform 150 . This allows the dispenser 120 to be customized for strips 122 of a particular length without changing the mold used to form the exterior shell 182 .
  • each of these parts can be made, in whole or in part, in a one-shot injection mold, without the need for side draws or other complicated and expensive molding or machining techniques that would otherwise be needed to make such an extensively undercut part.
  • the body 126 and each of the first platform 146 , the second platform 150 , and the splines 162 , 164 , 166 , and 168 are injection molded, although that is not an essential feature.
  • a desiccant optionally can be incorporated into the dispenser 120 to keep the partial pressure of water vapor within the dispenser 120 relatively low compared to ambient conditions.
  • One objective can be to reduce the partial pressure of water vapor in the reservoir 154 where the strips such as 122 and 124 are stored.
  • a desiccant can be provided anywhere within the enclosure formed by the exterior shell 182 , including but not limited to on an interior surface 188 of the shell 182 itself.
  • the shell 182 could be partially or entirely molded from an injection moldable desiccant composition.
  • Suitable desiccant plastics include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911,937; 6,214,255; 6,130,263; 6,080,350; 6,174,952; 6,124,006; and 6,221,446, all to Hekal. These disclosures of these patents are incorporated herein by reference.
  • Silica gel, a molecular sieve, calcium oxides or clay may be used directly as desiccants or incorporated into a desiccant material.
  • the desiccant can also or instead be a material adapted to release a gas, such as an inert gas that prevents oxidation of the enclosed medicament, a flavoring or fragrance, or moisture, in the case of a medicament that should not be allowed to dry out.
  • a gas such as an inert gas that prevents oxidation of the enclosed medicament, a flavoring or fragrance, or moisture, in the case of a medicament that should not be allowed to dry out.
  • the reservoir 154 can be desiccated, for example, by providing a desiccant material such as 190 that is exposed to the reservoir 154 .
  • a desiccant material such as 190 that is exposed to the reservoir 154 .
  • “Exposed” as used here is a broad term including direct contact between the desiccant and the reservoir to be desiccated, as well as communication between the desiccant 190 and the reservoir 154 , optionally via a passage or series of passages lying between the desiccant such as 190 and the reservoir 154 .
  • a desiccant material 192 provided in the lid 128 is exposed to the desiccant region 156 .
  • a desiccant material 190 is also exposed to the reservoir 154 , in this instance via the region 156 and the platform perforation 194 .
  • the platform perforation 194 communicates between the region 156 and the reservoir 154 .
  • the desiccant packet or sachet 196 , the desiccant canister 198 , and the desiccant pellet 200 are also each exposed to the reservoir 154 .
  • FIG. 11 also illustrates a dispenser 120 in which the desiccant materials 190 , 196 , 198 , and 200 are each in contact with the region 156 .
  • contact has a more specific definition that requires the desiccant to be within or adjacent to the region 156 .
  • the dispenser can have at least a portion of any one of the body interior surface 188 , a spline such as 162 , 164 , or 166 , the first platform 146 , or the second platform 156 , or any combination of these parts, composed of a desiccant material.
  • the dispenser 120 can also include a desiccant such as one or more sachets 196 , canisters 198 , or pellets 200 disposed in the region 156 .
  • a desiccant such as one or more sachets 196 , canisters 198 , or pellets 200 disposed in the region 156 .
  • “Disposed in” is a more particular term meaning that the desiccant is located within the boundaries of the region 156 .
  • One advantage of the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12 is that it provides a considerable amount of space in the region 156 to place one or more sachets such as 196 or canisters such as 198 containing particulate material, or free pellets or particulate material such as 200 containing or made of desiccant material.
  • the region 156 thus can provide a desiccant reservoir at least somewhat isolated from the reservoir 154 .
  • the region 156 can be sized to contain a suitable amount of desiccant of any type or form
  • the sleeve 184 of desiccant material disposed within the body 126 can at least partially define at least one of the reservoir 154 and the region 156 . In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12 , the sleeve partially defines each of the reservoir 154 and the region 156 .
  • FIG. 13 shows an alternative embodiment, compared to FIG. 11 , in which the dispenser 120 has a false bottom defined by the web 148 .
  • the first platform 146 is located between the axially opposed ends 142 and 144 of the body.
  • the first platform 150 can be positioned between the ends 142 and 144 to provide adequate elevation to extend the test strips 122 , 124 beyond the top lip or dispensing opening 142 of the vial body 126 and position them within the lid 128 (when closed) without damaging the exposed ends of the test strips.
  • the position of the first platform 146 thus can be adjusted along with or independently of the position of the second platform 150 to adjust the positions of the tops of the test strips such as 122 and 124 in the container 120 .
  • FIGS. 14 and 15 show an alternative embodiment 202 in which an internal side wall or liner 204 of desiccant material is formed within the exterior shell 182 and web 152 of the body 126 in a two-shot injection molding process.
  • the construction material can be desiccant plastic, a traditional three phase polymer or a two phase polymer, for example.
  • the liner may also be molded from a non-desiccated polymer such as polyethylene, polypropylene or other suitable materials.
  • the thickness and height of the liner 204 can be adjusted to provide tailored moisture protection to the vial or tailor the internal volume.
  • the liner 204 also provides stiffness to the vial which facilitates a moisture tight flip-top seal. By increasing or reducing the thickness or height of the liner walls, the sidewall deflection is adjusted to facilitate closure of the lid onto the vial body.
  • the first platform 146 is defined by desiccant material integral with the interior surface 140 .
  • An insert 206 made of desiccant material is also provided.
  • the insert 206 defines the second platform 208 and the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 , and substantially fills the entire region 156 of the dispenser as well as the portion of the reservoir 154 occupied by the splines 162 , 164 , and 166 .
  • FIGS. 16 and 17 show alternative embodiments of inserts, respectively 210 and 212 .
  • FIG. 18 shows an alternative embodiment of a dispenser 214 in which the second platform 216 has a first portion 218 or 220 defining a first strip reservoir (respectively 222 or 224 ) and a second portion 226 non-coplanar with the first portion 218 or 220 and defining a second strip reservoir 228 .
  • the strip reservoirs 222 and 228 have tops, respectively 230 and 232 , at the same elevation and floors, respectively 234 and 236 , at different elevations, so the second strip reservoir 228 is axially longer than the first strip reservoir 222 .
  • a strip reservoir 240 is located beside the second platform 216 , and extends down to and is defined by a portion 242 of the first platform 146 .
  • the strip reservoir 240 is axially longer than the strip reservoirs 222 , 224 , and 228 , and thus can accommodate even much longer strips 124 than the others.
  • One optional advantage of the illustrated construction is ease of access to the strips 122 , 124 . They are visible above the vial body rim or dispensing opening 126 when the lid 128 is open, and remain exposed above the dispensing opening 126 when the container is full, as well as after strips have been depleted. Yet, the test strips 122 , 124 do not interfere with opening and closing the lid 128 . Another advantage is that the strips remain standing upright and do not fall over into the sealing locations 136 and 138 when strips are removed.
  • the illustrated construction optionally provides a longer shelf life for the strips 122 , 124 by providing desiccants in various forms, as by two-shot molding of the body 126 to include a desiccant liner, molding internal components of the dispenser 120 from moldable desiccant thermoplastic materials, and including communicating chambers for containing loose or packaged desiccants.
  • desiccants in various forms, as by two-shot molding of the body 126 to include a desiccant liner, molding internal components of the dispenser 120 from moldable desiccant thermoplastic materials, and including communicating chambers for containing loose or packaged desiccants.
  • One or more of these or other expedients for desiccating the dispenser 120 can be used.
  • FIGS. 12 , 20 and 21 Another aspect of the technology, illustrated by FIGS. 12 , 20 and 21 , is a method of making dispensers such as 120 for dispensing objects such as 124 of varying length.
  • the method allows one to customize a particular dispenser 120 to dispense objects such as 124 of a particular length, presenting the tops 250 of the objects such as 124 at an appropriate height in the dispenser 120 .
  • a first injection mold cavity 252 is provided as shown in FIG. 20 .
  • the first mold cavity 252 is adapted to form a generally tubular body such as the body 126 of FIG. 12 .
  • the body 126 has a first platform 146 , as previously described, that is formed in the cavity 252 by the projecting end 254 of the core 256 , and which locates and supports the lower end 186 of the liner 184 when the dispenser 120 is assembled.
  • a second injection mold cavity 260 is provided as shown in FIG. 21 .
  • the second cavity 260 is adapted to form an insert or liner 184 , such a the liner 184 of FIG. 5 , sized and configured to fit within the generally tubular body 126 of FIG. 12 .
  • the insert 184 has a second platform 150 , as shown in FIG. 12 and described above, adapted to support objects such as 124 .
  • the second platform is formed by the leading edge 262 of a core 264 .
  • At least one of the first and second injection mold cavities 252 and 260 is modified to place the first and second platforms 146 and 150 of the tubular body 126 and the insert 184 in relative axial positions adapted to support objects such as 124 of a specific length on the second platform 150 at a predetermined position relative to the dispensing opening 142 .
  • the position of the first platform 146 in the body 126 can be raised by removing material from the core 256 , so its new leading edge 266 is at the position shown in FIG. 20 .
  • the core 256 can be replaced by a different core having a different length.
  • Other expedients for accomplishing this customization step are also well known to those skilled in the art.
  • This modification will raise the level of the second platform of a dispenser assembled from the modified body 126 and the insert 184 as shown in FIG. 12 .
  • the position of the second platform 150 in the insert 184 can be raised by removing material from the core 264 , or by other expedients similar to those useful for the cavity 252 , so the new leading edge 268 is at the position shown in FIG. 21 .
  • This modification will raise the level of the second platform 150 of a dispenser assembled from the body 126 as shown in FIG. 12 and the insert 184 as thus modified.
  • This method allows one to customize the insert 184 to serially adapt for strips 124 of different lengths, presenting each at the ideal height for easy access without interfering with the lid 128 .
  • a variety of different inserts 184 having different dimensions can be used with a particular body 126 , depending on the particular strips 124 to be contained and dispensed.
  • this method allows one to customize the body 126 to serially adapt for strips 124 of different lengths, presenting each at the ideal height for easy access without interfering with the lid 128 .
  • a variety of different bodies 126 having different dimensions can be used with a particular insert 184 , depending on the particular strips 124 to be contained and dispensed.
  • one strip reservoir such as 228 of the insert 184 can be modified using this technique while another strip reservoir 222 retains its original dimensions or is modified to a different degree to suit a strip having a different length.
  • another strip reservoir 222 retains its original dimensions or is modified to a different degree to suit a strip having a different length.
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate that the strips can be oriented in various directions in the dispenser 120 .
  • the strips are oriented so their major surfaces such as 268 and 270 face one of the longer sides of the dispenser 120 .
  • the test strips are turned 90 degrees relative to the strips of FIG. 22 , so the major surfaces such as 268 and 270 face one of the shorter sides of the dispenser 120 .
  • the dispenser has perpendicular laterally extending first and second axes, and one or more strips of material in at least one of the reservoirs is oriented with its major faces substantially parallel to the first axis, or alternatively the second axis.
  • Other orientations such as an oblique or diagonal orientation, are also contemplated.
  • the following is a suitable method of measuring moisture ingress for determining whether a vessel is waterproof as defined in this specification.
  • the moisture ingress through the flip-top seal of the container of the present invention is determined over a fifty (50) day period.
  • a total of six (6) containers are used for the study.
  • MS loose molecular sieve
  • the test method can be described as follows: (a) placing two grams plus or minus 0.25 grams of molecular sieve (“MS”) into four (4) containers and recording the weight; (b) recording the weight of two of the same containers which do not contain any MS material, which containers are maintained as controls; (c) closing the containers by applying, in a singular motion, a downward pressure upon the container lids or thumb tabs until the rim portions, adjacent to the thumb tabs, contact the inside flat part of the caps also adjacent to the thumb tabs; (d) weighing the six (6) containers and recording their respective weights; (e) placing the closed containers in an environmental chamber maintained at conditions of 80% relative humidity and 22.2° C.; (f) weighing the containers on a daily basis for fifty (50) days, recording the weights of the respective containers, and returning them to the chamber; (g) subtracting the weights recorded in steps (a) and (b) from the current day weight of the respective containers to calculate the moisture ingress of the container in units of micrograms of water; and (h) determining
  • N is Sample Type (A-F)
  • the “best result” numbers are the best single vial result of the several vials tested.
  • test results show a significant reduction in moisture ingress in the same vials, having the same sealing arrangements, with and without a reinforcement that reduces deflection of the sidewall along the minor axis.

Abstract

A moisture-tight, re-sealable container (10, 80, 120, 202, 214) is disclosed having a lid (18, 128) and body (12, 112). The lid and body have a non-round seal (50, 78) that is substantially moisture tight when the lid is seated on the body, admitting less than 1000 micrograms per day of water to a package. A reinforcement (22 or 162) stiffens or reinforces at least a portion of the seal against inward deflection along an axis (42) defined by the minor diameter when the lid is seated on the body. Optionally the reinforcement is at least one spline (162) subdividing the reservoir. A method of making dispensers (10, 80, 120, 202, 214) for objects (122, 124) of varying length to customize particular dispensers to dispense such objects of a particular length is also disclosed.

Description

  • This application claims the priority of U.S. Ser. No. 61/053,277, filed May 15, 2008, and 61/081514, filed Jul. 17, 2008. These two entire patent applications are incorporated here by reference.
  • BACKGROUND
  • The present disclosure relates to containers that can be used, for example, to house test strips, pills, capsules, particulate materials, liquids, or other objects or materials and control the ingress and/or egress of moisture. This patent application discloses technology related to that of U.S. Ser. No. 29/318,272, filed May 16, 2008. That patent application is incorporated here by reference.
  • Cylindrical containers are described in the following patents as being “leak-proof:” U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,783,056, 4,812,116, RE 37,676 and 6,303,064. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,769,558 and 7,198,161 and European patent 1 220 794, all to the present inventor, disclose a leakproof, resealable cylindrical container and cap assembly. The disclosure of the processes of producing injection molded plastic containers and sealing them are incorporated by reference herein.
  • SUMMARY
  • An aspect of the invention is a moisture proof, resealable non-cylindrical container and lid assembly. The term “resealable” means that the closure can be closed at least once after the container is opened for the first time. Preferably, the closure can be opened and closed additional times after the initial opening to remove all of the contents.
  • The container has a body having an interior space, defined by a generally tubular sidewall. The body has a lid, and the lid and body have a non-round seal that is substantially moisture proof when the lid is seated on the body, meaning that when sealed the container admits less than 1000 micrograms per day of water determined by a moisture ingress test method. The container optionally is sized as a pharmaceutical package enclosing between 1 and 500 ml of interior volume, alternatively between 10 and 200 ml of interior volume, alternatively between 20 and 100 ml of internal volume.
  • The body has a generally tubular sidewall with first and second axially opposed ends, a base, and a dispensing opening axially spaced from the base and at least adjacent to the second end. The interior space is disposed generally within the sidewall and at least generally between the base and the dispensing opening. The sidewall has a cross-section having a major diameter and a minor diameter, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the sidewall cross-section is a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive.
  • The container has a non-round body sealing surface located on the body and disposed about the dispensing opening, the body sealing surface having a major diameter and a minor diameter, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive.
  • The lid is configured to seat on the body. There is a lid sealing surface located on the lid. The body sealing surface and the lid sealing surface are configured to mate to form a seal between the lid and the body when the lid is seated on the body. The lid and lid sealing surface at least substantially close the dispensing opening and isolate the interior space from ambient conditions.
  • An insert communicates with the interior space of the container and reinforces at least a portion of the body sealing surface against inward deflection along an axis defined by the minor diameter when the lid is seated on the body. The container has a moisture ingress rate of the container having a moisture ingress rate of 100-1000 micrograms per day, optionally 200-700 micrograms per day, optionally 380-700 micrograms per day, optionally 400-700 micrograms per day, optionally 250-400 micrograms per day, optionally less than 300 micrograms per day, at 80% relative humidity and 72° F. (22.2° C.).
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the interior space is defined at least in part by an interior surface made of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the interior space is defined at least in part by a reinforcement stiffening the container against deflection along the minor axis.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the reinforcement is an insert assembled with the container.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is secured to the container by an interference fit between the insert and the inner wall of the container.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is made of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is disposed within the container.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is a liner generally following the inner wall of the container.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least one of the ends of the container has an interior portion made of desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the sidewall has an interior portion made of desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the lid has an interior portion made of desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the desiccant material is located in the interior space.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the desiccant is a particulate material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more sachets.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more canisters.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more pellets.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the container further comprises a sleeve of desiccant material disposed within the body and at least partially defining the interior space.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the sleeve is integrally formed with at least one of the sidewall and an end wall.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the container further comprises a tether linking the container body and lid.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the tether comprises a hinge.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the tether comprises an integral hinge.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge is configured to orient the lid to seat on the body when the lid and body are pivoted together.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge defines a pivot axis that is generally perpendicular to the major axis.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge defines a pivot axis that is generally parallel to the major axis.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge extends from the sidewall at least adjacent to the end of the major axis.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge extends from the sidewall at least adjacent to the end of the minor axis.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is at least generally oval in cross-section.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is at least generally polygonal in cross-section.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is at least generally rectangular in cross-section.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body has at least one rounded corner.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the dispensing opening is defined by the second end of the sidewall.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the lid comprises a closed surface supporting the lid sealing surface.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the lid comprises a skirt surrounding and depending from the lid sealing surface.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the skirt is generally tubular.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the skirt cross-section is substantially congruent to the cross-section of the body sidewall, at least substantially defining an extension of the generally tubular sidewall when the lid is seated on the body.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 2:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 2:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 2:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.5:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.5:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 2:1 and 5:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 2:1 and 4:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 2:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the lid are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and the lid are formed in two shots in an injection mold.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the respective shots are a substantially moisture blocking polymeric material and a desiccant polymeric material.
  • Another embodiment of the invention is a dispenser for strips of material, comprising a generally tubular body, a first platform, a second platform, and at least one spline. The body has an interior surface and first and second axially opposed ends, at least one of the ends defining a dispensing opening. The first platform extends laterally within the interior surface and positioned at the first end or between the first and second ends of the body. The second platform extends laterally within the interior surface, is positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform and the dispensing opening, and defines a reservoir between the second platform and the dispensing opening and a region between the first and second platforms. The spline extends axially and laterally within the reservoir and subdivides the reservoir into plural axially extending reservoirs communicating with the dispensing opening.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is an open path of communication between the reservoir and at least one of the strip reservoirs.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is an open path of communication between the reservoir and each of the strip reservoirs.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least one open path of communication is a perforation in the second platform.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a desiccant material exposed to the reservoir.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the desiccant material is in contact with the region.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the region is defined by an interior surface composed at least in part of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of at least one of the body interior surface, a spline, the first platform, and the second platform is composed of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the body interior surface is composed of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of at least one spline is composed of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the first platform is composed of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the second platform is composed of a desiccant material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and at least one of the first platform, the second platform, and a spline are integral.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and the first platform are integral.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and the second platform are integral.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and a spline are integral.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and each spline are integral.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and each of the first platform, the second platform, and the splines are injection molded.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the first platform are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second platform and splines are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of the body and the first platform are formed in a first shot in an injection mold and the second platform and splines are formed in a second shot in an injection mold.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the portions formed in the first shot define a first part, the portions formed in the second shot define a second part, and the first and second parts are joined together to define a dispenser.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a desiccant disposed in the region.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the desiccant is a particulate material.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more sachets, canisters, or pellets.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a cap for covering the dispensing opening.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a first seal surface on the cap and a second seal surface on the body, the seal surfaces being mateable to at least substantially seal the dispensing opening.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a hinge joining the dispenser body and cap.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a desiccant material disposed within the cap.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a sleeve of desiccant material disposed within the body and at least partially defining at least one of the reservoir and region.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the sleeve is integrally formed with at least one of the first and second platforms.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second platform has a first portion defining a first strip reservoir.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second platform further comprises a second portion non-coplanar with the first portion defining a second strip reservoir.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a second strip reservoir defined by a portion of the first platform.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second strip reservoir is axially longer than the first strip reservoir.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is generally oval in cross-section.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the splines lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending long axis of the oval.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the splines lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending short axis of the oval.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there are perpendicular laterally extending first and second axes, further comprising one or more strips of material in at least one of the reservoirs oriented with their major faces substantially parallel to the first axis.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, there are perpendicular laterally extending first and second axes, further comprising one or more strips of material in at least one of the reservoirs oriented with their major faces substantially parallel to the second axis.
  • Another aspect of the invention is a method of making dispensers for objects of varying length to customize particular dispensers to dispense such objects of a particular length. The method is carried out in several steps.
  • One step is providing a first injection mold cavity adapted to form a generally tubular body having an interior surface; first and second axially opposed ends, at least one of the ends defining a dispensing opening; and a first platform extending laterally within the interior surface and positioned between the axially opposed ends of the body.
  • Another step is providing a second injection mold cavity adapted to form an insert sized and configured to fit within the generally tubular body, the insert having a second platform configured to be positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform and the dispensing opening when the insert is assembled with the body, defining a reservoir between the second platform and the dispensing opening and a region between the first and second platforms.
  • A third step is modifying at least one of the first and second injection mold cavities to place the first and second platforms of the tubular body and the insert in relative axial positions adapted to support objects of a specific length on the second platform at a predetermined position relative to the dispensing opening.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second injection mold cavity is modified.
  • Optionally, in any embodiment above, the first injection mold cavity is not modified to customize the dispenser.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container, shown with the lid open.
  • FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section taken along section line 2-2 of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-section taken along section line 3-3 of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 is an enlarged detail view of the hinge and lid sealing surface shown in FIG. 2, modified to show the lid seated on the body.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-section similar to FIG. 3 of another embodiment.
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-section similar to FIG. 3 of yet another embodiment.
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-section of an additional embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the dispenser.
  • FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 8.
  • FIG. 10 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 8.
  • FIG. 11 is a section of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along section lines 11-11.
  • FIG. 12 is a section of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along section lines 12-12.
  • FIG. 13 is a modification of FIG. 11, showing as an alternative a false bottom defined by the web 148 recessed in the body 126.
  • FIG. 14 is a cutaway perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 14.
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a desiccant insert defining another embodiment of the dispenser.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another desiccant insert defining still another embodiment of the dispenser.
  • FIG. 18 is a view similar to FIG. 15 showing other potential modifications to accommodate and uniformly present strips having different lengths.
  • FIG. 19 is a fragmentary plan view of an alternative embodiment in which the splines run perpendicular to their orientation shown in FIG. 10.
  • FIG. 20 is a schematic sectional view of a mold cavity for forming the body of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 12.
  • FIG. 21 is a schematic sectional view of a mold cavity for forming the insert of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 12.
  • FIG. 22 is a sectional view of an embodiment in which the faces or major surfaces of the strips face the longer side of the generally oval vial.
  • FIG. 23 is a sectional view of an embodiment in which the faces or major surfaces of the strips face the shorter side of the generally oval vial.
  • The following reference characters are used in the Figures.
  • Ref.
    Char. Description
    10 Container
    12 Body
    14 Interior space
    16 Body sealing surface
    18 Lid
    20 Lid sealing surface
    22 Desiccant material
    24 Generally tubular sidewall
    26 First end (of 24) (base)
    28 Second end (of 24)
    30 Dispensing opening
    32 Cross-section (of 24)
    34 Major diameter (of 32)
    36 Minor diameter (of 32)
    38 Center (of 32)
    40 Major diameter (of 16)
    42 Minor diameter (of 16)
    44 Body (FIG. 5)
    46 Rounded corner (of 44)
    47 Container (FIG. 6)
    48 Closed surface (of 18)
    50 Seal (of 16 and 20)
    52 Skirt (of 18)
    54 Integral hinge
    56 Pivot axis (of 54)
    58 Interior surface (of 24)
    60 Interior portion of desiccant material
    62 Interior portion (of 18)
    64 Sachet
    66 Canister
    68 Pellet or particle
    78 Inner seal
    80 Container
    82 Inner skirt
    84 Seal gasket
    86 Sealing surface
    88 Contents
    90 Lower end of 82
    120 Dispenser
    122 Strip of material
    124 Strip of material
    126 Generally tubular body
    128 Lid
    130 Hinge
    132 Long axis (of 126)
    134 Short axis (of 126)
    136 Sealing location (of 126)
    138 Sealing location (of 128)
    140 Interior surface
    142 First end (of 126) (disposing opening)
    144 Second end (of 126)
    146 First platform
    148 Integrally forward web
    150 Second platform
    152 Web
    154 Reservoir
    156 Region
    162 Spline
    164 Spline
    166 Spline
    168 Strip reservoir
    170 Strip reservoir
    172 Strip reservoir
    174 Strip reservoir
    176 Platform perforations through 150, 152
    178 Platform perforations through 150, 152
    180 Platform perforations through 150, 152
    182 Exterior shell (of 126)
    184 Liner (of 126)
    186 Lower end (of 184)
    188 Interior surface (of 182)
    190 Desiccant material (insert)
    192 Desiccant material (in lid)
    194 Perforation (in 150 and 152)
    196 Desiccant sachet
    198 Desiccant canister
    200 Desiccant pellet
    202 Embodiment (FIGS. 14 and 15)
    204 Liner (FIGS. 14 and 15)
    206 Insert (FIGS. 14 and 15)
    208 Second platform (FIGS. 14 and 15)
    210 Insert (FIG. 16)
    212 Insert (FIG. 17)
    214 Dispenser (FIG. 18)
    216 Second platform (FIG. 18)
    218 Portion (of 216)
    220 Portion (of 216)
    222 Compartment (FIG. 18)
    224 Compartment (FIG. 18)
    226 Second portion (of 216)
    228 Second compartment (FIG. 18)
    230 Top of 222
    232 Top of 228
    234 Body (of FIG. 18)
    240 Third compartment (FIG. 18)
    250 Top (of 124) (FIG. 12)
    252 First cavity
    254 End (of 256)
    256 Core
    260 Second cavity
    262 End (of 264)
    264 Core
    266 Trimmed leading edge (of 256)
    268 Face of 122
    270 Face of 124
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,769,558 and 7,198,161 and European patent 1 220 794, all to the present inventor, disclose a leakproof, resealable, flip-top cylindrical container and cap assembly which comprises a cap and container attached by a hinge. A user is readily able to close the lid using the front tab on the lid. Those patents are incorporated here by reference for the characteristics and dimensions of a suitable seal for a container and cap assembly. When forming a moisture-tight seal using the flip-top closure described in the foregoing patents, the closure exerts a compressive force about the top of the container body. A sealing relationship is formed between the closure and the container body.
  • It is presently believed that the seal effectiveness, in large part, is due to the stiffness of the container walls. In an oval container (especially as the ratio between the major and minor axes becomes larger), the walls become less stiff against inward and outward deflection along the minor axis and are not able to withstand the force exerted by the closure. This lack of stiffness results in less seal integrity (i.e., a higher moisture ingress rate). In particular, the seal area of the sidewall of the container or cap is particularly subject to flexing along the minor axis, where the opposed walls have the largest radius in an oval container.
  • The present inventor has further determined that this problem can be addressed by providing a reinforcement stiffening the container against deflection along the minor axis. The reinforcement can be extra material in the container wall itself, but can also be provided, for example by press-fitting or otherwise incorporating an insert or liner into the container to reinforce its portions at or near the beginning and end of the minor axis. The insert, which also has utility to orient test strips, may be used to stiffen the sidewalls of the container.
  • Referring to FIGS. 1 through 4, a vial or container 10 is shown including a body 12, an interior space 14, a body sealing surface 16, a lid 18, a lid sealing surface 20, and a desiccant material 22 communicating with the interior space 14.
  • The body 12 can have a generally tubular sidewall 24 with first and second axially opposed ends 26 and 28 and a dispensing opening 30. The dispensing opening 30 is axially spaced from the first end or base 26 and at least adjacent to the second end 28. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, at least a portion of the dispensing opening 30 is defined by the second end 28 of the sidewall 24.
  • The body 12 can have its interior space 14 disposed generally within the sidewall 24 and at least generally between the base 26 and the dispensing opening 30. The generally tubular sidewall 24 can have a cross-section 32, best shown in FIG. 3, having a major diameter 34 and a minor diameter 36 each passing through the center 38. The ratio between the major diameter 34 and the minor diameter 36 of the cross-section 32 can be, for example, a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive. Alternatively, the ratio between the major diameter 34 and the minor diameter 36 of the cross-section 32 of the body sidewall 24 can be a value between 1.5:1 and 5:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 3:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 5:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 3:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 5:1, in each case the end points being inclusive. The upper and lower limits are not critical; the point of the ratios is to provide a container 10 that is wider than it is deep, or vice versa.
  • As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, the body 12 is at least generally oval in cross-section 32. The body, however, can have other cross-sectional configurations. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the body 44 can be at least generally polygonal in cross-section, or at least generally rectangular in cross-section, and alternatively can have at least one rounded corner 46. Many other alternative configurations are also contemplated. For example, the container can be configured as shown in the container 47 of FIG. 1, with opposing concave and convex walls.
  • As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, the body sealing surface 16 is not round, is located on the body 12, and is disposed about the dispensing opening 30. The body sealing surface 16 can have a major diameter 40 and a minor diameter 42, and the ratio between the major diameter 40 and the minor diameter 42 of the body sealing surface 16 can be a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive. Alternatively, the ratio between the major diameter 40 and the minor diameter 42 of the body sealing surface 16 can be between 1.5:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 3:1, alternatively between 1.5:1 and 2:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 5:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 4:1, alternatively between 2:1 and 3:1, in each case the end points being inclusive. The upper and lower limits again are not critical, and provide a non-round sealing surface.
  • It should be understood that the ratio of the major and minor cross-section diameters 34 and 36 can be the same as or different from the ratio of the major and minor diameters 40 and 42 of the body sealing surface 16. Additionally, the shapes of the body sealing surface 16 and the cross-section 32 can be the same or different. For example, the cross-section 32 could be rectangular with rounded corners and the body sealing surface 16 could be elliptical. This is just one illustration of a possible alternative configuration.
  • The lid 18 comprises a closed surface 48 supporting the lid sealing surface 20. The lid 18 can be configured to seat on the body 12. It can have a lid sealing surface 20. The body sealing surface 16 and the lid sealing surface 20 can be configured to mate to form a seal 50 (best seen in FIG. 4) between the lid 18 and the body 12 when the lid 18 is seated on the body 12. When the seal 50 is formed, the lid 18 and the seal 50 defined by the sealing surfaces 16 and 20 at least substantially close the dispensing opening 30 and isolate the interior space 14 from ambient conditions.
  • The lid 18 of FIGS. 1-4 can have a generally tubular skirt 52 surrounding and depending from the lid sealing surface 20. The cross-section of the skirt 52 can be substantially congruent to the cross-section 32 of the body sidewall, at least substantially defining an extension of the generally tubular sidewall 24 when the lid 18 is seated on the body 12, as shown in FIG. 4.
  • In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, a tether, here configured as an integral hinge 54, links the body 12 and the lid 18. The hinge 54 can be configured to orient the lid 18 to seat on the body 12 when the lid 18 and body 12 are pivoted together. The illustrated integral hinge 54 of FIGS. 1-4, as illustrated, can extend from the sidewall 24 of the body 12 at least adjacent to the end of the minor axis 42. The integral hinge as illustrated defines a pivot axis 54 that can be generally parallel to the major diameter 40. In an alternative embodiment, the integral hinge could be displaced 90 degrees circumferentially and extend from the sidewall 24 of the body 12 at least adjacent to the end of the major diameter 40. The integral hinge could then define a pivot axis that could be generally perpendicular to the major axis 40. The integral hinge could also be displaced to an intermediate point between the ends of the major diameter 40 and minor diameter 42, in another alternative embodiment, providing an oblique pivot axis parallel neither to the major diameter 40 nor the minor diameter 42.
  • The inventors have found that a non-round seal, for example the seal 50 shown in FIGS. 1-4 formed by mating the non-round body sealing surface 16 and lid sealing surface 20, does not exclude moisture as well as a round seal. Nonetheless, it may be necessary or useful to limit the amount of moisture entering or leaving the interior space 14 of the container 10, as when the contents of the container 10 are moisture-sensitive. The inventors have found that the issue of moisture sensitivity caused by a non-round seal can be addressed and at least partially alleviated if the container 10 includes a desiccant material such as 22 communicating with the interior space 14 of the container 10 when the lid 18 is seated on the body 12.
  • An example of suitable desiccant material 22 is the injection-moldable thermoplastic desiccant polymeric material described in one or more of U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911,937; 6,214,255; 6,130,263; 6,080,350; 6,174,952; 6,124,006; and 6,221,446, all to Hekal. These patents are incorporated here by reference. Silica gel, a molecular sieve, calcium oxides or clay may also or instead be used directly as desiccants or incorporated into a desiccant material. The desiccant alternatively can be a material adapted to release a gas, such as an inert gas that prevents oxidation of the enclosed medicament, a flavoring or fragrance, or moisture, in the case of a medicament that should not be allowed to dry out.
  • For example, in the container 10 of FIGS. 1-4, the interior space 14 can be defined at least in part by an interior surface 58 of the body 12 made of a desiccant material 22. In the container 10 of FIGS. 1-4, at least one of the ends of the container 10, here the first end 26, also can have an interior portion 60 made of desiccant material. Additionally or alternatively, the lid 18 can have an interior portion 48 that can be integrally molded of desiccant material 22. Additionally or alternatively, the interior surface 58 of desiccant 22 can be defined by a separately molded sleeve of desiccant material 22 placed within the body 12 and at least partially defining the interior space 14. The sleeve can be integrally formed with at least one of the sidewall and an end wall.
  • In an alternative or additional embodiment, also illustrated in FIG. 2, at least a portion of the desiccant material 22 can located in the interior space 14. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, at least a portion of the desiccant 22 can be provided in the form of one or more sachets 64, or canisters 66, or a particulate material 68, which can be provided as pellets or in other particulate forms.
  • Referring now to FIG. 7, a secondary seal generally indicated at 78 is disclosed for a container 80 otherwise similar to that of FIGS. 1-4. In FIG. 7, the lid 18 has an inner skirt 82 and the body 12 contains a desiccant insert 22 and a generally annular seal gasket 84 having a sealing surface 86 encircling the contents 88 of the container. The inner skirt 82 has a distal or lower end 90 bearing against the seal gasket 84, forming the seal. The seal gasket 84 can be made of an elastomeric material (for example a thermoplastic elastomer, TPE.) One contemplated TPE is Santoprene®, which is a registered trademark of Monsanto Company of St. Louis, Mo., U.S.A.
  • The position of the lower end 90 of the web 82, and thus the seal 78, can be closer to the outer skirt 52 of the lid than illustrated in FIG. 7, which may be useful to allow more space within the inner seal 80. The gasket 86 can alternatively be reduced to just the portion beneath the lower end 90 of the inner skirt 82, although an advantage of the illustrated embodiment is that the material of the seal gasket 84 can also isolate the top surface of the desiccant material 22 from direct contact with the environment when the container 80 is opened.
  • In any embodiment an elastomer may also be located along the top interior surface of the vial body 12, such as the body sealing surface 16, to resiliently seat against the lid sealing surface 20.
  • A secondary sealing element can also or alternatively be formed along the inside surface of the flip-top lid 18. The secondary sealing element may be located in close proximity to the sidewall or skirt 52 of the flip-top lid 18. When the lid 18 is closed, the secondary sealing element compresses the elastomer along the top surface of the insert to form a secondary seal, in combination with the seal according to U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,558 and other patents as previously described.
  • More generally, any one or more of the desiccant or sealing features shown in the Figures can be used individually or together, and additional embodiments deploying the desiccant or sealing elements in other ways are also contemplated.
  • The container 10 can be made in various ways. In one embodiment, the container 10 and its desiccant feature 22 can each be separately injection molded from thermoplastic material, as in a one-shot or two-shot injection process, then assembled. The first mold is used to produce the flip- top vial 10 or 80. In second mold, an insert is molded. The lid 18 and integral hinge 54 can be integrally formed in the same mold as the outer body 12. In one embodiment, the flip-top vial lid is closed in the mold.
  • Alternatively, the body 12 and the desiccant polymeric material 22 can formed in two shots in one injection mold.
  • In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the insert is composed of two materials: a desiccant plastic 22 and an elastomeric material 84. The insert 22 and seal gasket 84 may be molded in a 2-shot injection molding process. The desiccant material 22 of the insert is formed in the first shot. Next, the elastomeric material 84 is formed in the second shot. The composite insert is assembled into the vial. Alternatively, the seal material and the material of the body 12 or lid 18 can be formed in a single, two-shot mold.
  • One of many known examples of suitable material for the outer portions of the container 10 can be polypropylene—a moisture blocking polymeric material. For example, the outer body 12 and lid 18 can be made of polypropylene, and the desiccant features such the interior portion 60 can be made of a desiccant material.
  • The container can also be made as disclosed in any of the embodiments of U.S. Ser. No. 61/053,277 or 29/318,272, which are incorporated by reference above.
  • When the insert is assembled into the vial, the elastomeric material 84 forms a secondary seal along the top interior surface of the vial flip-top lid.
  • Referring more particularly to FIGS. 8-10, the illustrated dispenser 120 is a vial including a generally tubular body 126 and a lid 128 joined together by a hinge 130. In this embodiment the body 126 is generally oval or elliptical in cross-section, having a laterally extending long axis 132 (running from top to bottom in FIG. 10) and a laterally extending short axis 134 (running from side to side in FIG. 10). Optionally, the body 126, lid 128, and hinge 130 can be integrally formed, as by molding the assembly in a one-shot injection mold to form the body 126, the lid 128, and an integral hinge 130 simultaneously. The body 126, lid 128, and hinge 130 can be made of any suitable material, commonly a substantially moisture-impervious material and commonly a thermoplastic material that is useful for injection molding. The body 126, lid 128, and the hinge 130 can be made of polypropylene or polyethylene, for example, to provide good moisture protection.
  • The lid 128 and body 126 respectively have first and second sealing locations 36 and 38 which are mateable when the lid 128 is seated on the body 126 to at least substantially seal the dispensing opening 142 and minimize contact of water vapor or other environmental substances with the test strips such as 122 and 124 or other contents of the dispenser 120. The body 126 has an interior surface 140 and first and second axially opposed ends 142 and 144, and at least one of the ends, here the end 142, defines a dispensing opening.
  • FIGS. 10-12 in particular show various interior details of the embodiment of FIG. 8.
  • The body 126 has a first platform 146, in this embodiment defined by the upper surface of an integrally formed web 148. (Words of orientation such as “upper,” “lower” or “lateral” in this specification refer to the dispenser 120 when it is oriented as shown in FIGS. 11-12. “Axial” is up or down as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, and “lateral” refers to any direction having a component perpendicular to axial For example, a direction perpendicular to axial and a direction forming an angle of 45 degrees with respect to axial are both lateral directions.) The first platform 146 extends laterally within the interior surface 140 and is positioned at least substantially at the end 44 of the body.
  • The body 126 has a second platform 150 extending laterally within the interior surface 140. The second platform 150 is positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform 146 and the dispensing opening 142. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, the second platform 150 is defined by the upper surface of a laterally extending web 152.
  • The second platform 150 is positioned and configured to provide adequate elevation to extend the test strips 122, 124 beyond the top lip or dispensing opening 142 of the vial body 126 and position them within the lid 128 (when closed) without damaging the exposed ends of the test strips. Damage could occur when the lid is closed and strips such as 122, 124 lean or bend over and get trapped between the vial body 126 and the lid 128.
  • By extending the test strips 122, 124 beyond the dispensing opening 142 of the vial body, the end user will have substantially easier access to the test strips 122, 124 presented to the user when the vial lid 128 is open. Since commercial test strips have many different lengths, the second platform 150 of the dispenser 120 can be easily adjusted to the test strip length to consistently be able to provide a package that presents the test strips to the consumer uniformly, regardless of the test strip length, without necessarily changing the overall length of the generally tubular body 126.
  • Additionally, the first and second platforms 146 and 150 can provide a method to increase the amount of desiccant being used for enhanced shelf life protection. It is more difficult to obtain a moisture tight seal on the illustrated oval dispenser 120 than on a round dispenser. The platforms allow additional desiccant to be added to the dispenser 120 for enhanced shelf life protection. Oval vials also are more difficult to manufacture due to the difference in shrinkage of the primarily flat sides as opposed to the sharper corners on the ends. This non-uniform geometry causes differences in shrinkage rates compared to a round vial.
  • A reservoir generally indicated at 154 is located between the second platform 150 and the dispensing opening 142, and a region generally indicated at 156 is located between the first and second platforms 146 and 150. At least one spline or partition 162, and in the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12 three parallel splines 162, 164, and 166, extend axially and laterally within the reservoir 154 and subdivide the reservoir into plural axially extending compartments or strip reservoirs, such as 168, 170, 172, and 174, communicating with the dispensing opening 142. In this embodiment, the splines 162, 164, and 166 lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending short axis 134 of the oval. In an alternative embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the splines such as 167 and 169 could lie substantially parallel to the laterally extending long axis 132 of the oval.
  • Partitioning the reservoir 154 using splines 162, 164, and 166 allows discrete placement of the test strips 122, 124, keeping them neatly arranged and more compact than random placement. Additionally the splines 162, 164, and 166 assist in maintaining the test strips upright for presentation to the customer. Together with the body 126 and insert 190, the splines 162, 164, and 166 position the test strips 122, 124 away from the sealing locations 136 and 138 to prevent the test strips 122, 124 from being lodged between the sealing locations 136 and 138 while closing the lid 128.
  • The dispenser 120 can have an open path of communication, such as the platform perforations 176, 178, and 180 in the second platform 150 and web 152, between the reservoir 154 and at least one of the strip reservoirs, such as 168. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, an open path of communication is provided between the reservoir 154 and each of the strip reservoirs 168, 170, 172, and 174.
  • In the dispenser, the body 126 and at least one of the first platform 146, the second platform 150, and a spline such as 162, 164, 166, and 168 are integral. In the dispenser of FIGS. 8-12, for example, the body and the first platform are integral.
  • In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, with particular reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the body 126 includes an exterior shell 182, which can be made of moisture-impervious material integrally formed with the first platform 146 and web 148. In the dispenser of FIGS. 8-12, at least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the first platform are formed in one shot in an injection mold, forming a first part.
  • A generally tubular liner 184 is provided, here including the second platform 150 and the splines 162, 164, and 166. At least a portion of the second platform 150 and the splines 162, 164, and 166 are formed in a single shot in an injection mold, forming a second part. The first and second parts are assembled to provide a dispenser 120.
  • The liner 184 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8-12 has a lower end 186 that, in the illustrated embodiment, abuts the first platform 146 to locate the liner 184 precisely within the body 126. The axial distance between the second platform 150 and the dispensing opening 142 can be selected by providing a lower end 186 that is spaced a corresponding distance from the second platform 150. This allows the dispenser 120 to be customized for strips 122 of a particular length without changing the mold used to form the exterior shell 182.
  • By providing an assembly of a separately molded liner 184 and shell 182, each of these parts can be made, in whole or in part, in a one-shot injection mold, without the need for side draws or other complicated and expensive molding or machining techniques that would otherwise be needed to make such an extensively undercut part. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, the body 126 and each of the first platform 146, the second platform 150, and the splines 162, 164, 166, and 168 are injection molded, although that is not an essential feature.
  • A desiccant optionally can be incorporated into the dispenser 120 to keep the partial pressure of water vapor within the dispenser 120 relatively low compared to ambient conditions. One objective can be to reduce the partial pressure of water vapor in the reservoir 154 where the strips such as 122 and 124 are stored. A desiccant can be provided anywhere within the enclosure formed by the exterior shell 182, including but not limited to on an interior surface 188 of the shell 182 itself.
  • For example, the shell 182 could be partially or entirely molded from an injection moldable desiccant composition. Suitable desiccant plastics include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,911,937; 6,214,255; 6,130,263; 6,080,350; 6,174,952; 6,124,006; and 6,221,446, all to Hekal. These disclosures of these patents are incorporated herein by reference. Silica gel, a molecular sieve, calcium oxides or clay may be used directly as desiccants or incorporated into a desiccant material. The desiccant can also or instead be a material adapted to release a gas, such as an inert gas that prevents oxidation of the enclosed medicament, a flavoring or fragrance, or moisture, in the case of a medicament that should not be allowed to dry out.
  • The reservoir 154 can be desiccated, for example, by providing a desiccant material such as 190 that is exposed to the reservoir 154. “Exposed” as used here is a broad term including direct contact between the desiccant and the reservoir to be desiccated, as well as communication between the desiccant 190 and the reservoir 154, optionally via a passage or series of passages lying between the desiccant such as 190 and the reservoir 154.
  • For example, with reference to FIG. 12, a desiccant material 192 provided in the lid 128 is exposed to the desiccant region 156. A desiccant material 190 is also exposed to the reservoir 154, in this instance via the region 156 and the platform perforation 194. The platform perforation 194 communicates between the region 156 and the reservoir 154. With reference to FIG. 11, the desiccant packet or sachet 196, the desiccant canister 198, and the desiccant pellet 200 are also each exposed to the reservoir 154.
  • FIG. 11 also illustrates a dispenser 120 in which the desiccant materials 190, 196, 198, and 200 are each in contact with the region 156. As used here, “contact” has a more specific definition that requires the desiccant to be within or adjacent to the region 156.
  • The dispenser can have at least a portion of any one of the body interior surface 188, a spline such as 162, 164, or 166, the first platform 146, or the second platform 156, or any combination of these parts, composed of a desiccant material.
  • The dispenser 120 can also include a desiccant such as one or more sachets 196, canisters 198, or pellets 200 disposed in the region 156. “Disposed in” is a more particular term meaning that the desiccant is located within the boundaries of the region 156. One advantage of the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12 is that it provides a considerable amount of space in the region 156 to place one or more sachets such as 196 or canisters such as 198 containing particulate material, or free pellets or particulate material such as 200 containing or made of desiccant material. The region 156 thus can provide a desiccant reservoir at least somewhat isolated from the reservoir 154. In an embodiment, the region 156 can be sized to contain a suitable amount of desiccant of any type or form to maintain a low water vapor pressure in the reservoir 154.
  • The sleeve 184 of desiccant material disposed within the body 126 can at least partially define at least one of the reservoir 154 and the region 156. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8-12, the sleeve partially defines each of the reservoir 154 and the region 156.
  • FIG. 13 shows an alternative embodiment, compared to FIG. 11, in which the dispenser 120 has a false bottom defined by the web 148. In this embodiment, the first platform 146 is located between the axially opposed ends 142 and 144 of the body. In this embodiment, the first platform 150 can be positioned between the ends 142 and 144 to provide adequate elevation to extend the test strips 122, 124 beyond the top lip or dispensing opening 142 of the vial body 126 and position them within the lid 128 (when closed) without damaging the exposed ends of the test strips. The position of the first platform 146 thus can be adjusted along with or independently of the position of the second platform 150 to adjust the positions of the tops of the test strips such as 122 and 124 in the container 120.
  • FIGS. 14 and 15 show an alternative embodiment 202 in which an internal side wall or liner 204 of desiccant material is formed within the exterior shell 182 and web 152 of the body 126 in a two-shot injection molding process. The construction material can be desiccant plastic, a traditional three phase polymer or a two phase polymer, for example. The liner may also be molded from a non-desiccated polymer such as polyethylene, polypropylene or other suitable materials.
  • The thickness and height of the liner 204 can be adjusted to provide tailored moisture protection to the vial or tailor the internal volume. The liner 204 also provides stiffness to the vial which facilitates a moisture tight flip-top seal. By increasing or reducing the thickness or height of the liner walls, the sidewall deflection is adjusted to facilitate closure of the lid onto the vial body.
  • In this embodiment, the first platform 146 is defined by desiccant material integral with the interior surface 140. An insert 206 made of desiccant material is also provided. The insert 206 defines the second platform 208 and the splines 162, 164, and 166, and substantially fills the entire region 156 of the dispenser as well as the portion of the reservoir 154 occupied by the splines 162, 164, and 166.
  • FIGS. 16 and 17 show alternative embodiments of inserts, respectively 210 and 212.
  • FIG. 18 shows an alternative embodiment of a dispenser 214 in which the second platform 216 has a first portion 218 or 220 defining a first strip reservoir (respectively 222 or 224) and a second portion 226 non-coplanar with the first portion 218 or 220 and defining a second strip reservoir 228. The strip reservoirs 222 and 228 have tops, respectively 230 and 232, at the same elevation and floors, respectively 234 and 236, at different elevations, so the second strip reservoir 228 is axially longer than the first strip reservoir 222.
  • Also in FIG. 18, a strip reservoir 240 is located beside the second platform 216, and extends down to and is defined by a portion 242 of the first platform 146. The strip reservoir 240 is axially longer than the strip reservoirs 222, 224, and 228, and thus can accommodate even much longer strips 124 than the others.
  • One optional advantage of the illustrated construction is ease of access to the strips 122, 124. They are visible above the vial body rim or dispensing opening 126 when the lid 128 is open, and remain exposed above the dispensing opening 126 when the container is full, as well as after strips have been depleted. Yet, the test strips 122, 124 do not interfere with opening and closing the lid 128. Another advantage is that the strips remain standing upright and do not fall over into the sealing locations 136 and 138 when strips are removed.
  • The illustrated construction optionally provides a longer shelf life for the strips 122, 124 by providing desiccants in various forms, as by two-shot molding of the body 126 to include a desiccant liner, molding internal components of the dispenser 120 from moldable desiccant thermoplastic materials, and including communicating chambers for containing loose or packaged desiccants. One or more of these or other expedients for desiccating the dispenser 120 can be used.
  • Another aspect of the technology, illustrated by FIGS. 12, 20 and 21, is a method of making dispensers such as 120 for dispensing objects such as 124 of varying length. The method allows one to customize a particular dispenser 120 to dispense objects such as 124 of a particular length, presenting the tops 250 of the objects such as 124 at an appropriate height in the dispenser 120.
  • To carry out the method, a first injection mold cavity 252 is provided as shown in FIG. 20. The first mold cavity 252 is adapted to form a generally tubular body such as the body 126 of FIG. 12. The body 126 has a first platform 146, as previously described, that is formed in the cavity 252 by the projecting end 254 of the core 256, and which locates and supports the lower end 186 of the liner 184 when the dispenser 120 is assembled.
  • A second injection mold cavity 260 is provided as shown in FIG. 21. The second cavity 260 is adapted to form an insert or liner 184, such a the liner 184 of FIG. 5, sized and configured to fit within the generally tubular body 126 of FIG. 12. The insert 184 has a second platform 150, as shown in FIG. 12 and described above, adapted to support objects such as 124. The second platform is formed by the leading edge 262 of a core 264.
  • To customize the dispenser 120, at least one of the first and second injection mold cavities 252 and 260 is modified to place the first and second platforms 146 and 150 of the tubular body 126 and the insert 184 in relative axial positions adapted to support objects such as 124 of a specific length on the second platform 150 at a predetermined position relative to the dispensing opening 142.
  • For example, the position of the first platform 146 in the body 126 can be raised by removing material from the core 256, so its new leading edge 266 is at the position shown in FIG. 20. Alternatively, the core 256 can be replaced by a different core having a different length. Other expedients for accomplishing this customization step are also well known to those skilled in the art. This modification will raise the level of the second platform of a dispenser assembled from the modified body 126 and the insert 184 as shown in FIG. 12.
  • For another example, the position of the second platform 150 in the insert 184 can be raised by removing material from the core 264, or by other expedients similar to those useful for the cavity 252, so the new leading edge 268 is at the position shown in FIG. 21. This modification will raise the level of the second platform 150 of a dispenser assembled from the body 126 as shown in FIG. 12 and the insert 184 as thus modified.
  • Further, both of these modifications could be made at the same time, or either one could be used without using the other.
  • Of course, the opposite modification could be made in either or both cases to lower the position of the second platform 150.
  • This method allows one to customize the insert 184 to serially adapt for strips 124 of different lengths, presenting each at the ideal height for easy access without interfering with the lid 128. Thus, a variety of different inserts 184 having different dimensions can be used with a particular body 126, depending on the particular strips 124 to be contained and dispensed. Conversely, this method allows one to customize the body 126 to serially adapt for strips 124 of different lengths, presenting each at the ideal height for easy access without interfering with the lid 128. Thus, a variety of different bodies 126 having different dimensions can be used with a particular insert 184, depending on the particular strips 124 to be contained and dispensed.
  • It will be understood as well, with reference to FIG. 18, that one strip reservoir such as 228 of the insert 184 can be modified using this technique while another strip reservoir 222 retains its original dimensions or is modified to a different degree to suit a strip having a different length. Thus, a very simple and versatile way to customize dispensers 126 for a wide variety of different strips such as 124 has been illustrated.
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate that the strips can be oriented in various directions in the dispenser 120. In FIG. 22, the strips are oriented so their major surfaces such as 268 and 270 face one of the longer sides of the dispenser 120. In FIG. 23, the test strips are turned 90 degrees relative to the strips of FIG. 22, so the major surfaces such as 268 and 270 face one of the shorter sides of the dispenser 120. In other words, the dispenser has perpendicular laterally extending first and second axes, and one or more strips of material in at least one of the reservoirs is oriented with its major faces substantially parallel to the first axis, or alternatively the second axis. Other orientations, such as an oblique or diagonal orientation, are also contemplated.
  • Moisture Ingress Test Method
  • The following is a suitable method of measuring moisture ingress for determining whether a vessel is waterproof as defined in this specification.
  • The moisture ingress through the flip-top seal of the container of the present invention is determined over a fifty (50) day period. A total of six (6) containers are used for the study. Two containers, referred to as CONTROL A and CONTROL B, do not contain desiccant. Four other containers, referred to as Samples C, D, E, F, have 2.0 grams of loose molecular sieve (MS) powder placed inside, plus or minus 0.25 grams. The dimensions of the containers are approximately 26.75 mm thick×43.70 mm wide×50.25 mm tall.
  • The test method can be described as follows: (a) placing two grams plus or minus 0.25 grams of molecular sieve (“MS”) into four (4) containers and recording the weight; (b) recording the weight of two of the same containers which do not contain any MS material, which containers are maintained as controls; (c) closing the containers by applying, in a singular motion, a downward pressure upon the container lids or thumb tabs until the rim portions, adjacent to the thumb tabs, contact the inside flat part of the caps also adjacent to the thumb tabs; (d) weighing the six (6) containers and recording their respective weights; (e) placing the closed containers in an environmental chamber maintained at conditions of 80% relative humidity and 22.2° C.; (f) weighing the containers on a daily basis for fifty (50) days, recording the weights of the respective containers, and returning them to the chamber; (g) subtracting the weights recorded in steps (a) and (b) from the current day weight of the respective containers to calculate the moisture ingress of the container in units of micrograms of water; and (h) determining the moisture ingress through the seal by discounting the moisture ingress through the vial, according to the following methodology, calculated on a daily basis:
  • N is Sample Type (A-F)
  • Sn is Sample Weight Gain=(Current Vial Weight minus Initial Vial Weight at Start of Study)
  • Ctrl is Average Weight Gain of Control Samples=(SA+SB)/2
  • TS is Average Weight Gain of Test Samples=(SC+SD+SE+SF)/4
  • MI is Moisture Ingress through Seal=(TS-Ctrl).
  • Working Example: Insert to Improve Seal Integrity of Oval Vial (Container)
  • Two different groups of oval-section vials with lids, respectively formed in Mold Cavity A and Mold Cavity B, and press-in tubular inserts for each type of vial similar to the inserts forming the surface 58 in FIG. 2 were provided. The tubular inserts were found to reinforce the vials against deflection of the body wall along the minor axis.
  • The moisture ingress test was run on a group of the vials without an insert, and also on a group of the same types of vials with inserts. The following results were obtained:
  • Moisture Ingress Results:
  • μg H2O per day
    Vial with
    Vial insert
    Mold Cavity A Best result 600 400
    Mean 716 466
    Ingress
    Std Dev
    90 54
    Mold Cavity B Best result 500 380
    Mean 694 419
    Ingress
    Std Dev
    116 39
  • In the above test results, the “best result” numbers are the best single vial result of the several vials tested.
  • The test results show a significant reduction in moisture ingress in the same vials, having the same sealing arrangements, with and without a reinforcement that reduces deflection of the sidewall along the minor axis.
  • Certain embodiments of the invention have been described in detail in this specification and illustrated by the drawing figures. This invention is not limited, however, to the specific embodiments and features described in the specification. The invention extends to the full scope of the claims as initially or later presented in this specification.

Claims (13)

1. A moisture-tight, re-sealable container comprising:
a. a body having a generally tubular sidewall with first and second axially opposed ends, a base, and a dispensing opening axially spaced from the base and at least adjacent to the second end;
b. an interior space disposed generally within the sidewall and at least generally between the base and the dispensing opening;
c. the generally tubular sidewall having a cross-section having a major diameter and a minor diameter, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the sidewall cross-section is a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive;
d. a non-round body sealing surface located on the body and disposed about the dispensing opening, the body sealing surface having a major diameter and a minor diameter, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.1:1 and 10:1, inclusive;
e. a lid configured to seat on the body;
f. a lid sealing surface located on the lid;
g. the body sealing surface and the lid sealing surface being configured to mate to form a seal between the lid and the body when the lid is seated on the body;
h. the lid and lid sealing surface at least substantially closing the dispensing opening and isolating the interior space from ambient conditions; and
i. an insert communicating with the interior space of the container and reinforcing at least a portion of the body sealing surface against inward deflection along an axis defined by the minor diameter when the lid is seated on the body;
the container having a moisture ingress rate of 100-1000 micrograms per day, at 80% relative humidity and 22.2° C.
2. The container of claim 1, in which the interior space is defined at least in part by an interior surface made of a desiccant material.
3. The container of claim 1, in which the interior space is defined at least in part by a reinforcement stiffening the container against deflection along the minor axis.
4. The container of claim 3, in which the reinforcement is an insert assembled with the container.
5. The container of claim 4, in which the insert is secured to the container by an interference fit between the insert and the inner wall of the container
6. The container of claim 4, in which the insert is made of a desiccant material.
7. The container of claim 4, in which the insert is disposed within the container.
8. The container of claim 4, in which the insert is a liner generally following the inner wall of the container.
9. The container of claim 1, in which the body is at least generally oval in cross-section.
10. The container of claim 1, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the sidewall is a value between 1.5:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
11. The container of claim 1, wherein the ratio between the major diameter and the minor diameter of the cross-section of the body sealing surface is a value between 1.5:1 and 3:1, inclusive.
12. A dispenser for strips of material, comprising:
a generally tubular body having an interior surface and first and second axially opposed ends, at least one of the ends defining a dispensing opening;
a first platform extending laterally within the interior surface and positioned at the first end or between the first and second ends of the body;
a second platform extending laterally within the interior surface, positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform and the dispensing opening, and defining a reservoir between the second platform and the dispensing opening and a region between the first and second platforms;
at least one spline extending axially and laterally within the reservoir and subdividing the reservoir into plural axially extending reservoirs communicating with the dispensing opening.
13. A method of making dispensers for objects of varying length to customize particular dispensers to dispense such objects of a particular length, the method comprising:
providing a first injection mold cavity adapted to form a generally tubular body having an interior surface; first and second axially opposed ends, at least one of the ends defining a dispensing opening; and a first platform extending laterally within the interior surface and positioned between the axially opposed ends of the body;
providing a second injection mold cavity adapted to form an insert sized and configured to fit within the generally tubular body, the insert having a second platform configured to be positioned between and spaced axially from the first platform and the dispensing opening when the insert is assembled with the body, defining a reservoir between the second platform and the dispensing opening and a region between the first and second platforms;
modifying at least one of the first and second injection mold cavities to place the first and second platforms of the tubular body and the insert in relative axial positions adapted to support objects of a specific length on the second platform at a predetermined position relative to the dispensing opening.
US12/992,749 2008-05-15 2009-05-15 Vial with non-round seal Pending US20110127269A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/992,749 US20110127269A1 (en) 2008-05-15 2009-05-15 Vial with non-round seal
US15/649,815 US10232986B2 (en) 2008-05-15 2017-07-14 Vial with non-round seal

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US5327708P 2008-05-15 2008-05-15
US8151408P 2008-07-17 2008-07-17
PCT/US2009/044193 WO2009140627A2 (en) 2008-05-15 2009-05-15 Vial with non-round seal
US12/992,749 US20110127269A1 (en) 2008-05-15 2009-05-15 Vial with non-round seal

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2009/044193 A-371-Of-International WO2009140627A2 (en) 2008-05-15 2009-05-15 Vial with non-round seal

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/649,815 Continuation US10232986B2 (en) 2008-05-15 2017-07-14 Vial with non-round seal
US17/155,954 Continuation US20210147122A1 (en) 2008-05-15 2021-01-22 Vial with non-round seal

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20110127269A1 true US20110127269A1 (en) 2011-06-02

Family

ID=41319364

Family Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/992,749 Pending US20110127269A1 (en) 2008-05-15 2009-05-15 Vial with non-round seal
US15/649,815 Active US10232986B2 (en) 2008-05-15 2017-07-14 Vial with non-round seal
US17/155,954 Pending US20210147122A1 (en) 2008-05-15 2021-01-22 Vial with non-round seal

Family Applications After (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/649,815 Active US10232986B2 (en) 2008-05-15 2017-07-14 Vial with non-round seal
US17/155,954 Pending US20210147122A1 (en) 2008-05-15 2021-01-22 Vial with non-round seal

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (3) US20110127269A1 (en)
EP (5) EP2280882B1 (en)
JP (3) JP2011520716A (en)
CN (2) CN102616474B (en)
CA (2) CA2967105C (en)
WO (1) WO2009140627A2 (en)

Cited By (29)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120080330A1 (en) * 2010-09-30 2012-04-05 Rush Benjamin M Analyte Test Strip Containers and Inserts
US20120302948A1 (en) * 2011-05-25 2012-11-29 Meninas Inc. Self-contained medication apparatus
WO2013079177A1 (en) * 2011-11-28 2013-06-06 Roche Diagnostics Gmbh Insert component for storage container for biosensor test elements
US20130160265A1 (en) * 2009-11-11 2013-06-27 Huhtamaki, Inc. Container/lid assembly
US20130220844A1 (en) * 2012-02-28 2013-08-29 Airsec S.A.S. Container for receiving moisture sensitive goods
US20130277383A1 (en) * 2012-04-18 2013-10-24 Thomas Passantino Portable Tissue Dispenser and Disposal Apparatus
WO2014116622A1 (en) 2013-01-23 2014-07-31 Csp Technologies, Inc. Packaging sealing system and a packaging assembly including such a sealing system
WO2014134455A1 (en) 2013-03-01 2014-09-04 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers with inserts
US20150083626A1 (en) * 2013-09-23 2015-03-26 Brent Dallman Medicinal vial holder with enlarged surface area
EP2776337A4 (en) * 2011-11-09 2015-05-27 Csp Technologies Inc Container with insert
USD748751S1 (en) 2014-03-28 2016-02-02 Joseph Morgan Stallings Golf tee dispenser
US20170166388A1 (en) * 2015-12-10 2017-06-15 Sinocare Inc. Test-strip storage vial
WO2017100375A1 (en) 2015-12-08 2017-06-15 Roche Diabetes Care. Inc. Test element retention dividers
WO2017139446A1 (en) 2016-02-09 2017-08-17 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers, container inserts and associated methods for making containers
WO2017139529A1 (en) 2016-02-12 2017-08-17 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container with child resistant closure and methods of making the same
WO2017152189A1 (en) 2016-03-04 2017-09-08 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container and lid
WO2017214712A1 (en) * 2016-03-28 2017-12-21 Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd. Method of producing molded article and apparatus for executing same
WO2018053342A1 (en) 2016-09-16 2018-03-22 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container having internal thumb tab and related assemblies
WO2018183791A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-10-04 Csp Technologies, Inc. Methods of overmolding softer material with harder material and moisture tight container assemblies made by the methods
US10159627B2 (en) 2014-06-19 2018-12-25 Écolopharm Inc. Child-resistant vial
WO2019032636A1 (en) 2017-08-08 2019-02-14 Csp Technologies, Inc. Moisture tight containers and methods of making and using the same
US10377564B2 (en) * 2016-08-26 2019-08-13 Alice Campbell Deodorizing waste receptacle
WO2019190593A1 (en) 2018-03-30 2019-10-03 Csp Technologies, Inc. Methods of overmolding softer material with harder material and moisture tight container assemblies made by the methods
US10663451B2 (en) 2014-06-05 2020-05-26 Roche Diabetes Care, Inc. Interchangeable test element retainers
US10765602B1 (en) 2019-03-29 2020-09-08 Eli Lilly And Company Medication delivery systems and methods
USD900606S1 (en) 2018-03-02 2020-11-03 Berlin Packaging, Llc Closure
US20210147122A1 (en) * 2008-05-15 2021-05-20 Csp Technologies, Inc. Vial with non-round seal
US11117722B1 (en) * 2021-04-22 2021-09-14 AssurPack LLC Safety container
USD931101S1 (en) 2018-03-02 2021-09-21 Berlin Packaging, Llc Closure

Families Citing this family (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110127175A1 (en) * 2009-11-30 2011-06-02 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Test strip container with expandable insert and methods of manufacturing and utilization thereof
US8376179B2 (en) 2010-06-28 2013-02-19 Mead Johnson Nutrition Company Container and closure
US8794458B2 (en) 2010-06-28 2014-08-05 Mead Johnson Nutrition Company Container seal
US20130240384A1 (en) * 2010-08-18 2013-09-19 Purdue Pharma L.P. Vacuum Avoiding Packaging Systems and Methods Thereof
MX2013007240A (en) 2010-12-22 2013-08-15 Colgate Palmolive Co Package of oral care implements and method of using the same.
JP2014517910A (en) * 2011-04-08 2014-07-24 シーエスピー テクノロジーズ,インコーポレイティド Strip dispenser and strip used therewith
MX2015000264A (en) * 2012-07-12 2015-04-10 Sca Hygiene Prod Ab Sheet dispenser.
WO2014118273A1 (en) * 2013-02-01 2014-08-07 Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland Gmbh Dispensing mechanism for test strips
EA039371B1 (en) * 2016-11-08 2022-01-19 СиЭсПи ТЕКНОЛОДЖИЗ, ИНК. Container and lid
US11751652B2 (en) 2019-07-25 2023-09-12 Speculative Product Design, Llc Protective outer case, especially for portable audio device systems
US11412823B2 (en) 2019-07-25 2022-08-16 Speculative Product Design, Llc Protective outer case, especially for portable audio device systems
USD988295S1 (en) 2019-07-25 2023-06-06 Speculative Product Design, Llc Outer covering for earbud case
USD944011S1 (en) 2019-10-28 2022-02-22 Speculative Product Design, Llc Outer covering for earbud case
USD958535S1 (en) 2020-07-17 2022-07-26 Speculative Product Design, Llc Outer covering for earbud case
USD958536S1 (en) 2020-07-17 2022-07-26 Speculative Product Design, Llc Outer covering for earbud case

Citations (45)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1522633A (en) * 1923-08-29 1925-01-13 Kister Harry Waterproof cigarette container
US2522952A (en) * 1946-09-27 1950-09-19 Krohn Joseph Tobacco container
US2727547A (en) * 1953-08-21 1955-12-20 American Optical Corp Containers
US2852054A (en) * 1956-11-23 1958-09-16 Motley Murat Brunson Container and closure therefor
US2958439A (en) * 1959-04-29 1960-11-01 Donald E Yochem Container and closure
US3063549A (en) * 1961-08-14 1962-11-13 Brunswick Corp Protective containers for holding microscope slides and similar fragile devices
US3346099A (en) * 1966-03-03 1967-10-10 Bristol Myers Co Moisture-proof container
US3820309A (en) * 1972-10-16 1974-06-28 Multiform Desiccant Prod Inc Adsorbent cartridge
US4717018A (en) * 1984-06-28 1988-01-05 Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh Container for longitudinally extending diagnostic test strips
US4783056A (en) * 1986-11-10 1988-11-08 Abrams Robert S Process for making an aseptic vial and cap
US4812116A (en) * 1986-11-10 1989-03-14 Abrams Robert S Mold for making an aseptic vial and cap
FR2623696A1 (en) * 1987-11-26 1989-06-02 Zafra Jimenez Pedro Watertight and impermeable tobacco pouch/case
US5078909A (en) * 1989-05-23 1992-01-07 Sasaki Chemicals Co., Ltd. Moisture-absorbent compositions and molded items
US5114003A (en) * 1991-03-28 1992-05-19 E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company Tablet vial with desiccant in bottom
US5505308A (en) * 1993-08-27 1996-04-09 Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh System for the storage of test elements
US5788064A (en) * 1995-12-14 1998-08-04 Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh Storage container for test strips
US5829581A (en) * 1996-09-04 1998-11-03 Traveldor, Llc Pocket humidor
US5911937A (en) * 1995-04-19 1999-06-15 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Desiccant entrained polymer
US5947274A (en) * 1994-08-05 1999-09-07 Smithkline Beecham P.L.C. Desiccating container for moisture-sensitive material
US6303064B1 (en) * 2000-01-24 2001-10-16 Capitol Vial, Inc. Process and apparatus for making a leakproof plastic container by completely ejecting from a mold and transferring to a cap closing station
USRE37676E1 (en) * 1994-10-14 2002-04-30 Capitol Vial, Inc. Process and apparatus for making a leak proof cap and body assembly
US6398067B1 (en) * 1999-11-10 2002-06-04 Cv Holdings, Llc Tamper-proof container cap assembly and related methods
US6446793B1 (en) * 1999-11-12 2002-09-10 John M. Layshock Container for cigarettes and cigarette lighter
US20030133847A1 (en) * 2002-01-16 2003-07-17 Robert Hagen Test strip dispenser
US20040007585A1 (en) * 2002-04-02 2004-01-15 Griffith Alun W. Test strip vial
US6705463B1 (en) * 2000-06-07 2004-03-16 Csp Technologies, Inc. Flip top golf ball container assembly provided with moisture barrier properties
US6769558B1 (en) * 1999-08-31 2004-08-03 Csp Technologies, Inc. Leakproof, resealable container and cap assembly
US20040154941A1 (en) * 2003-02-06 2004-08-12 Montler Mike F. Flexible hygienic remote control enclosure
US20040173488A1 (en) * 2002-11-07 2004-09-09 Griffin Carl E. Disposal device for sampling materials
US20050016873A1 (en) * 2002-04-11 2005-01-27 John Belfance Desiccant vial assembly for effervescent tablets
US7059492B2 (en) * 2002-06-25 2006-06-13 Capitol Plastic Products, Llc Moisture-proof resealable, non-cylindrical container for consumer packages
US20070080093A1 (en) * 2005-10-11 2007-04-12 Agamatrix, Inc. Vial for test strips
US20070084735A1 (en) * 2003-07-29 2007-04-19 Dider Lancesseur Tight dessicative container for packaging products which are sensitive to a moist environment
US20070084749A1 (en) * 2005-10-18 2007-04-19 Agamatrix, Inc. Vial for test strips
US20080257905A1 (en) * 2005-04-06 2008-10-23 Jean-Pierre Giraud Dispensing Apparatus for Diagnostic Test Strip and/or Medicine
US20100000905A1 (en) * 2008-07-03 2010-01-07 Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc. Strip vial and cap
US7665601B2 (en) * 2006-01-18 2010-02-23 Airsec Dehydrating container comprising a humidity state indicator
US7670562B2 (en) * 2003-11-15 2010-03-02 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Dispensing container and storage container for analytical disposables
US20110056951A1 (en) * 2009-09-09 2011-03-10 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Storage containers for test elements
US20110127175A1 (en) * 2009-11-30 2011-06-02 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Test strip container with expandable insert and methods of manufacturing and utilization thereof
US8006368B2 (en) * 2008-02-01 2011-08-30 Airsec Process and apparatus for making an injection molded vial
US20110210021A1 (en) * 2007-09-03 2011-09-01 Airsec S.A.S. Vial
US20110226643A1 (en) * 2008-12-02 2011-09-22 Bayer Healthcare Llc Sealed Analyte Sensor Container Systems and Storage Methods
US20110247949A1 (en) * 2008-12-02 2011-10-13 Bayer Healthcare Llc Analyte Sensor Container Systems With Sensor Elevator and Storage Methods
US8236254B2 (en) * 2009-05-14 2012-08-07 Abbott Diabetes Care Inc. Cap-linked test strip carrier for vial augmentation

Family Cites Families (86)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US228598A (en) * 1880-06-08 Chaunoey buckley
US4061226A (en) * 1976-06-24 1977-12-06 Intec Industries Inc. Thermometer case and holder
FR2638433B1 (en) * 1988-10-28 1990-11-30 Reboul Smt PACKAGING
US4982872A (en) 1988-12-15 1991-01-08 Avery Donald J Film-encapsulated-structure container for food, beverages and other consumable products and method for making of same
ES2107428T3 (en) * 1989-10-27 1997-12-01 Licence Management Pty Limited CONTAINER TO STORE AND ELIMINATE SYRINGES.
US5202093A (en) * 1991-05-20 1993-04-13 Medical Robotics, Inc. Sealing cap with a one way valve having semi-cylindrical valve closure springs
US6243936B1 (en) 1991-05-30 2001-06-12 Drug Plastics And Glass Company, Inc. Method for assembling an outer container having a container insert therein for holding a predetermined volume of material
ATE254568T1 (en) 1995-04-19 2003-12-15 Csp Technologies Inc CLOSED CONTAINER WITH DESICIANT
US6174952B1 (en) 1995-04-19 2001-01-16 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Monolithic polymer composition having a water absorption material
US6080350A (en) 1995-04-19 2000-06-27 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Dessicant entrained polymer
US6124006A (en) 1995-04-19 2000-09-26 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Modified polymers having controlled transmission rates
US6221446B1 (en) 1995-04-19 2001-04-24 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc Modified polymers having controlled transmission rates
US6214255B1 (en) 1995-04-19 2001-04-10 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Desiccant entrained polymer
US6130263A (en) 1995-04-19 2000-10-10 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Desiccant entrained polymer
US6486231B1 (en) * 1995-04-19 2002-11-26 Csp Technologies, Inc. Co-continuous interconnecting channel morphology composition
JP3620668B2 (en) * 1995-08-01 2005-02-16 株式会社資生堂 Airtight cosmetic container
US5667094A (en) * 1996-04-29 1997-09-16 West Penn Plastics Container and closure assembly
JP3574867B2 (en) 1996-05-29 2004-10-06 株式会社吉野工業所 Tube container
FR2766462B1 (en) 1997-07-25 1999-09-17 Qualipac Sa METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CLOSURE COVERS OF PLASTIC MATERIALS WITH ARTICULATED LID, COVERS THUS MANUFACTURED AND CONTAINERS PROVIDED WITH SUCH COVERS
US5842486A (en) 1997-11-25 1998-12-01 Sussex Plastics Inc. Hermetically sealed cosmetic compact case
EP1112175A4 (en) 1998-06-04 2001-08-08 Capitol Specialty Plastics Inc Desiccant blended in a thermoplastic
DE19825815C1 (en) * 1998-06-09 2000-02-24 Egon Heinzle Stand for rod or plate-shaped objects
USD436434S1 (en) * 1998-12-16 2001-01-23 Optoplast Plc Case for tampons
DE29905561U1 (en) 1999-03-27 1999-09-09 Odenwald Gottfried Storage box and disposal box for blood test strips
US6376126B1 (en) * 1999-10-13 2002-04-23 Johnson Controls Technology Company Composite battery container with integral flexible ribs
USD454686S1 (en) * 2000-02-09 2002-03-26 Mccormack Corinne Eyeglass case
AU2001269764A1 (en) * 2000-06-07 2001-12-17 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Flip top golf ball container assembly provided with moisture barrier properties
US6502711B1 (en) * 2001-04-20 2003-01-07 Kerry J. C. Mc Rae Container holding apparatus
SE521192C2 (en) 2002-01-30 2003-10-07 Ramloesa Tekniska Ab Box for storing tablets and the like
CN100564187C (en) * 2002-04-11 2009-12-02 Csp技术公司 The desiccant vial assembly that is used for effervescent tablet
US7191901B2 (en) * 2002-08-15 2007-03-20 Corning Incorporated Substrate container that does not degrade substrate surface
CN100471767C (en) * 2002-10-10 2009-03-25 Csp技术公司 Resealable moisture tight container assembly for strips and the like having a lip snap seal
CA2517649C (en) 2003-03-03 2011-05-03 Airsec S.A. Device for dispensing oblong objects, comprising one main opening and at least one other elongated opening
CN1819957A (en) * 2003-07-07 2006-08-16 B·D·杰克逊 Reclosable dispenser
EP1660381B1 (en) * 2003-09-05 2008-07-16 CSP Technologies, Inc. Child resistant safety caps and containers with such caps
JP4908220B2 (en) * 2003-10-02 2012-04-04 キャピトル プラスティック プロダクツ,リミティド ライアビリティー カンパニー Container with pill dispensing insert
US7516845B2 (en) * 2004-03-31 2009-04-14 Inverness Medical Limited Medical device package with deformable projections
US20060006578A1 (en) * 2004-07-12 2006-01-12 Polytop Corporation Vial with hinged cap and method of making same
USD541426S1 (en) * 2004-07-12 2007-04-24 Arkray, Inc. Preservation container
US7472797B2 (en) * 2004-07-28 2009-01-06 Capitol Vial Inc. Container for collecting and storing breast milk
EP1640289A1 (en) 2004-09-23 2006-03-29 Airsec S.A.S. Drawer case
WO2006045087A2 (en) 2004-10-20 2006-04-27 Csp Technologies, Inc. Re-sealable moisture tight containers for strips and the like having alternative sealing mechanisms
US7337918B2 (en) * 2004-12-03 2008-03-04 Nova Biomedical Corporation Test strip dispenser
US20060191933A1 (en) 2005-02-25 2006-08-31 Seaquist Closures Foreign, Inc. Closure system with improved sealing of lid
EP1739028B1 (en) 2005-07-01 2008-09-10 Airsec S.A.S. Container
US20070170202A1 (en) * 2005-10-22 2007-07-26 Chen Jeffrey M Emergency medical pill dispenser
US20070196240A1 (en) * 2006-02-23 2007-08-23 Agamatrix, Inc. Multi-slot Test strip vial
US7887757B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2011-02-15 Becton, Dickinson And Company Method and apparatus for dispensing diagnostic test strips
JP4943834B2 (en) 2006-12-27 2012-05-30 日本製紙クレシア株式会社 Pop-up wiper storage stocker
WO2008092470A1 (en) * 2007-01-29 2008-08-07 Egomedical Swiss Ag Resealeable container for storing moisture sensitive test elements
US8783485B2 (en) * 2007-11-16 2014-07-22 Clariant Production (France) S.A.S. Container
US7775357B2 (en) * 2008-04-14 2010-08-17 Asp Rights Management Pty Limited Syringe disposal device
CN102616474B (en) 2008-05-15 2015-11-25 Csp技术公司 There is the bottle of noncircular seals
USD599032S1 (en) * 2008-05-16 2009-08-25 Csp Technologies, Inc. Vial
JPWO2010024042A1 (en) * 2008-08-29 2012-01-26 オリンパス株式会社 Sample container
TWI374841B (en) * 2009-12-01 2012-10-21 Tsai Feng Der Desiccating container
US8844725B2 (en) * 2010-01-20 2014-09-30 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Test strip container with strip retainer and methods of manufacturing and utilization thereof
US20110182785A1 (en) * 2010-01-22 2011-07-28 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Flat Pop-Up Primary Container And Methods of Manufacturing And Utilization Thereof
US8394343B2 (en) * 2010-04-27 2013-03-12 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Integrated test strip container with retaining insert
US8225928B2 (en) * 2010-08-23 2012-07-24 Targus Group International, Inc. Electronic device cases with integrated cleaning component
US8757386B2 (en) * 2010-09-30 2014-06-24 Abbott Diabetes Care Inc. Analyte test strip containers and inserts
US20120082597A1 (en) * 2010-09-30 2012-04-05 Abbott Diabetes Care Inc. Analyte Test Strip Dispensers and Elastomeric Caps for Sealing the Dispensers
WO2012082399A1 (en) * 2010-12-13 2012-06-21 Csp Technologies, Inc. Vial with lid attachment mechanism
TWM414962U (en) * 2011-01-28 2011-11-01 Tsai Feng Der Desiccating container
US9341613B2 (en) * 2011-02-07 2016-05-17 Kevin G. Sawa Device for singulating and dispensing rigid and semi-rigid strips
USD649658S1 (en) * 2011-02-08 2011-11-29 CSP Technolgies, Inc. Vial
USD694100S1 (en) * 2011-03-31 2013-11-26 Freidrich Sanner GmbH & Co. KG Container
CN103917460A (en) * 2011-11-09 2014-07-09 Csp技术公司 Container with insert
WO2013103664A1 (en) * 2012-01-03 2013-07-11 Csp Technologies, Inc. Dispenser
EP2634108B1 (en) * 2012-02-28 2016-02-03 Clariant Production (France) S.A.S. Container for receiving moisture sensitive goods
USD679583S1 (en) * 2012-03-05 2013-04-09 Toppan Printing Co., Ltd. Packaging container
WO2013142479A1 (en) * 2012-03-20 2013-09-26 Csp Technologies, Inc. Dispenser
USD698459S1 (en) * 2013-01-16 2014-01-28 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Container
CN104995101B (en) * 2013-01-23 2018-03-06 Csp技术公司 A kind of package component
WO2014134455A1 (en) * 2013-03-01 2014-09-04 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers with inserts
US9975670B2 (en) * 2013-04-17 2018-05-22 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container with button release
US20140367286A1 (en) * 2013-06-17 2014-12-18 Erik Chen Can structure for storing testing strip
US9834341B2 (en) * 2013-06-19 2017-12-05 Csp Technologies, Inc. Cap and container assemblies
CN110068674B (en) * 2014-06-05 2020-09-08 豪夫迈·罗氏有限公司 Exchangeable test element holder
US20160031627A1 (en) * 2014-08-04 2016-02-04 Huan-Fu Yeh Moisture Proof Container
DE102015100947A1 (en) * 2015-01-22 2016-07-28 Sanner Gmbh Container with treatment agent and process for its preparation
USD846380S1 (en) * 2015-09-24 2019-04-23 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container
WO2017100375A1 (en) * 2015-12-08 2017-06-15 Roche Diabetes Care. Inc. Test element retention dividers
TWI730047B (en) * 2016-02-09 2021-06-11 美商Csp技術股份有限公司 Containers, container inserts and associated methods for making containers
MY190461A (en) * 2016-03-04 2022-04-22 Csp Technologies Inc Container and lid
EP3665102A1 (en) * 2017-08-08 2020-06-17 CSP Technologies, Inc. Moisture tight containers and methods of making and using the same

Patent Citations (49)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1522633A (en) * 1923-08-29 1925-01-13 Kister Harry Waterproof cigarette container
US2522952A (en) * 1946-09-27 1950-09-19 Krohn Joseph Tobacco container
US2727547A (en) * 1953-08-21 1955-12-20 American Optical Corp Containers
US2852054A (en) * 1956-11-23 1958-09-16 Motley Murat Brunson Container and closure therefor
US2958439A (en) * 1959-04-29 1960-11-01 Donald E Yochem Container and closure
US3063549A (en) * 1961-08-14 1962-11-13 Brunswick Corp Protective containers for holding microscope slides and similar fragile devices
US3346099A (en) * 1966-03-03 1967-10-10 Bristol Myers Co Moisture-proof container
US3820309A (en) * 1972-10-16 1974-06-28 Multiform Desiccant Prod Inc Adsorbent cartridge
US4717018A (en) * 1984-06-28 1988-01-05 Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh Container for longitudinally extending diagnostic test strips
US4783056A (en) * 1986-11-10 1988-11-08 Abrams Robert S Process for making an aseptic vial and cap
US4812116A (en) * 1986-11-10 1989-03-14 Abrams Robert S Mold for making an aseptic vial and cap
FR2623696A1 (en) * 1987-11-26 1989-06-02 Zafra Jimenez Pedro Watertight and impermeable tobacco pouch/case
US5078909A (en) * 1989-05-23 1992-01-07 Sasaki Chemicals Co., Ltd. Moisture-absorbent compositions and molded items
US5114003A (en) * 1991-03-28 1992-05-19 E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company Tablet vial with desiccant in bottom
US5505308A (en) * 1993-08-27 1996-04-09 Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh System for the storage of test elements
US5947274A (en) * 1994-08-05 1999-09-07 Smithkline Beecham P.L.C. Desiccating container for moisture-sensitive material
USRE37676E1 (en) * 1994-10-14 2002-04-30 Capitol Vial, Inc. Process and apparatus for making a leak proof cap and body assembly
US5911937A (en) * 1995-04-19 1999-06-15 Capitol Specialty Plastics, Inc. Desiccant entrained polymer
US5788064A (en) * 1995-12-14 1998-08-04 Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh Storage container for test strips
US5829581A (en) * 1996-09-04 1998-11-03 Traveldor, Llc Pocket humidor
US7198161B2 (en) * 1999-08-31 2007-04-03 Csp Technologies, Inc. Leakproof, resealable container and cap assembly
US6769558B1 (en) * 1999-08-31 2004-08-03 Csp Technologies, Inc. Leakproof, resealable container and cap assembly
US6398067B1 (en) * 1999-11-10 2002-06-04 Cv Holdings, Llc Tamper-proof container cap assembly and related methods
US6446793B1 (en) * 1999-11-12 2002-09-10 John M. Layshock Container for cigarettes and cigarette lighter
US6303064B1 (en) * 2000-01-24 2001-10-16 Capitol Vial, Inc. Process and apparatus for making a leakproof plastic container by completely ejecting from a mold and transferring to a cap closing station
US6705463B1 (en) * 2000-06-07 2004-03-16 Csp Technologies, Inc. Flip top golf ball container assembly provided with moisture barrier properties
US20030133847A1 (en) * 2002-01-16 2003-07-17 Robert Hagen Test strip dispenser
US20040007585A1 (en) * 2002-04-02 2004-01-15 Griffith Alun W. Test strip vial
US20050016873A1 (en) * 2002-04-11 2005-01-27 John Belfance Desiccant vial assembly for effervescent tablets
US7413083B2 (en) * 2002-04-11 2008-08-19 Csp Technologies, Inc. Desiccant vial assembly for effervescent tablets
US7059492B2 (en) * 2002-06-25 2006-06-13 Capitol Plastic Products, Llc Moisture-proof resealable, non-cylindrical container for consumer packages
US20040173488A1 (en) * 2002-11-07 2004-09-09 Griffin Carl E. Disposal device for sampling materials
US20040154941A1 (en) * 2003-02-06 2004-08-12 Montler Mike F. Flexible hygienic remote control enclosure
US20070084735A1 (en) * 2003-07-29 2007-04-19 Dider Lancesseur Tight dessicative container for packaging products which are sensitive to a moist environment
US7670562B2 (en) * 2003-11-15 2010-03-02 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Dispensing container and storage container for analytical disposables
US20080257905A1 (en) * 2005-04-06 2008-10-23 Jean-Pierre Giraud Dispensing Apparatus for Diagnostic Test Strip and/or Medicine
US20070080093A1 (en) * 2005-10-11 2007-04-12 Agamatrix, Inc. Vial for test strips
US20070084749A1 (en) * 2005-10-18 2007-04-19 Agamatrix, Inc. Vial for test strips
US7501093B2 (en) * 2005-10-18 2009-03-10 Agamatrix, Inc. Vial for test strips
US7665601B2 (en) * 2006-01-18 2010-02-23 Airsec Dehydrating container comprising a humidity state indicator
US8685346B2 (en) * 2007-09-03 2014-04-01 Clariant Production (France) S.A.S. Vial
US20110210021A1 (en) * 2007-09-03 2011-09-01 Airsec S.A.S. Vial
US8006368B2 (en) * 2008-02-01 2011-08-30 Airsec Process and apparatus for making an injection molded vial
US20100000905A1 (en) * 2008-07-03 2010-01-07 Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc. Strip vial and cap
US20110226643A1 (en) * 2008-12-02 2011-09-22 Bayer Healthcare Llc Sealed Analyte Sensor Container Systems and Storage Methods
US20110247949A1 (en) * 2008-12-02 2011-10-13 Bayer Healthcare Llc Analyte Sensor Container Systems With Sensor Elevator and Storage Methods
US8236254B2 (en) * 2009-05-14 2012-08-07 Abbott Diabetes Care Inc. Cap-linked test strip carrier for vial augmentation
US20110056951A1 (en) * 2009-09-09 2011-03-10 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Storage containers for test elements
US20110127175A1 (en) * 2009-11-30 2011-06-02 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Test strip container with expandable insert and methods of manufacturing and utilization thereof

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
Bonenberger, Paul R.. (2005). First Snap-Fit Handbook - Creating and Managing Attachments for Plastic Parts (2nd Edition). Hanser Publishers. Online version available at: http://app.knovel.com/hotlink/toc/id:kpFSFHCMA4/first-snap-fit-handbook/first-snap-fit-handbook - Excerpt from Chapter 3 *

Cited By (59)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20210147122A1 (en) * 2008-05-15 2021-05-20 Csp Technologies, Inc. Vial with non-round seal
US20130160265A1 (en) * 2009-11-11 2013-06-27 Huhtamaki, Inc. Container/lid assembly
US8757386B2 (en) * 2010-09-30 2014-06-24 Abbott Diabetes Care Inc. Analyte test strip containers and inserts
US20120080330A1 (en) * 2010-09-30 2012-04-05 Rush Benjamin M Analyte Test Strip Containers and Inserts
US8597236B2 (en) * 2011-05-25 2013-12-03 Meninas Inc. Self-contained medication apparatus
US20120302948A1 (en) * 2011-05-25 2012-11-29 Meninas Inc. Self-contained medication apparatus
US9745101B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2017-08-29 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container with insert
EP2776337A4 (en) * 2011-11-09 2015-05-27 Csp Technologies Inc Container with insert
US9914126B2 (en) 2011-11-28 2018-03-13 Roche Diabetes Care, Inc. Storage container for biosensor test elements
EP3575790A3 (en) * 2011-11-28 2020-02-26 Roche Diabetes Care GmbH Insert component for storage container for biosensor test elements
WO2013079177A1 (en) * 2011-11-28 2013-06-06 Roche Diagnostics Gmbh Insert component for storage container for biosensor test elements
EP2634108B1 (en) 2012-02-28 2016-02-03 Clariant Production (France) S.A.S. Container for receiving moisture sensitive goods
US20130220844A1 (en) * 2012-02-28 2013-08-29 Airsec S.A.S. Container for receiving moisture sensitive goods
US10246241B2 (en) * 2012-02-28 2019-04-02 Clariant Healthcare Packaging (France) S.A.S. Container for receiving moisture sensitive goods
US20130277383A1 (en) * 2012-04-18 2013-10-24 Thomas Passantino Portable Tissue Dispenser and Disposal Apparatus
US11345522B2 (en) 2013-01-23 2022-05-31 Csp Technologies, Inc. Packaging sealing system and a packaging assembly including such a sealing system
DE202014011167U1 (en) 2013-01-23 2018-04-13 Csp Technologies, Inc. Sealing system for packaging and packaging arrangement with such a sealing system
DE202014011168U1 (en) 2013-01-23 2018-04-13 Csp Technologies, Inc. Sealing system for packaging and packaging arrangement with such a sealing system
WO2014116622A1 (en) 2013-01-23 2014-07-31 Csp Technologies, Inc. Packaging sealing system and a packaging assembly including such a sealing system
US11718451B2 (en) 2013-01-23 2023-08-08 Csp Technologies, Inc. Packaging sealing system and a packaging assembly including such a sealing system
WO2014134455A1 (en) 2013-03-01 2014-09-04 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers with inserts
US20160001927A1 (en) * 2013-03-01 2016-01-07 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers with inserts
EP2961666A4 (en) * 2013-03-01 2016-08-03 Csp Technologies Inc Containers with inserts
US20150083626A1 (en) * 2013-09-23 2015-03-26 Brent Dallman Medicinal vial holder with enlarged surface area
USD748751S1 (en) 2014-03-28 2016-02-02 Joseph Morgan Stallings Golf tee dispenser
US10663451B2 (en) 2014-06-05 2020-05-26 Roche Diabetes Care, Inc. Interchangeable test element retainers
US11237151B2 (en) * 2014-06-05 2022-02-01 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Interchangeable test element retainers
US10159627B2 (en) 2014-06-19 2018-12-25 Écolopharm Inc. Child-resistant vial
WO2017100375A1 (en) 2015-12-08 2017-06-15 Roche Diabetes Care. Inc. Test element retention dividers
US11835511B2 (en) 2015-12-08 2023-12-05 Roche Diabetes Care, Inc. Test element retention dividers
EP4220156A1 (en) 2015-12-08 2023-08-02 Roche Diabetes Care GmbH Test element retention dividers
US10976303B2 (en) 2015-12-08 2021-04-13 Roche Diabetes Care, Inc. Test element retention dividers
US20170166388A1 (en) * 2015-12-10 2017-06-15 Sinocare Inc. Test-strip storage vial
US10259640B2 (en) * 2015-12-10 2019-04-16 Sinocare Inc. Test-strip storage vial
DE112017000718T5 (en) 2016-02-09 2018-10-31 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers, container inserts and associated methods of manufacturing containers
WO2017139446A1 (en) 2016-02-09 2017-08-17 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers, container inserts and associated methods for making containers
US10974887B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2021-04-13 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers, container inserts and associated methods for making containers
US10737853B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2020-08-11 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container with child resistant closure and methods of making the same
WO2017139529A1 (en) 2016-02-12 2017-08-17 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container with child resistant closure and methods of making the same
DE112017001156T5 (en) 2016-03-04 2018-11-22 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container and lid
EP3919407A1 (en) 2016-03-04 2021-12-08 CSP Technologies, Inc. Container and lid with multiple seals therebetween and method for using the same
WO2017152189A1 (en) 2016-03-04 2017-09-08 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container and lid
US10669079B2 (en) 2016-03-04 2020-06-02 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container and lid with multiple seals therebetween and methods for making and using the same
US11794959B2 (en) 2016-03-04 2023-10-24 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container and lid with multiple seals therebetween and methods for making and using the same
US11192698B2 (en) 2016-03-04 2021-12-07 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container and lid with multiple seals therebetween and methods for making and using the same
WO2017214712A1 (en) * 2016-03-28 2017-12-21 Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd. Method of producing molded article and apparatus for executing same
US10377564B2 (en) * 2016-08-26 2019-08-13 Alice Campbell Deodorizing waste receptacle
US10865019B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2020-12-15 Csp Technologies, Inc. Containers, container inserts and associated methods for making containers
WO2018053342A1 (en) 2016-09-16 2018-03-22 Csp Technologies, Inc. Container having internal thumb tab and related assemblies
US11331836B2 (en) 2017-03-31 2022-05-17 Csp Technologies, Inc. Methods of overmolding softer material with harder material and moisture tight container assemblies made by the methods
WO2018183791A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-10-04 Csp Technologies, Inc. Methods of overmolding softer material with harder material and moisture tight container assemblies made by the methods
US11840000B2 (en) 2017-03-31 2023-12-12 Csp Technologies, Inc. Methods of overmolding softer material with harder material and moisture tight container assemblies made by the methods
WO2019032636A1 (en) 2017-08-08 2019-02-14 Csp Technologies, Inc. Moisture tight containers and methods of making and using the same
US11325771B2 (en) 2017-08-08 2022-05-10 Csp Technologies, Inc. Moisture tight containers and methods of making and using the same
USD931101S1 (en) 2018-03-02 2021-09-21 Berlin Packaging, Llc Closure
USD900606S1 (en) 2018-03-02 2020-11-03 Berlin Packaging, Llc Closure
WO2019190593A1 (en) 2018-03-30 2019-10-03 Csp Technologies, Inc. Methods of overmolding softer material with harder material and moisture tight container assemblies made by the methods
US10765602B1 (en) 2019-03-29 2020-09-08 Eli Lilly And Company Medication delivery systems and methods
US11117722B1 (en) * 2021-04-22 2021-09-14 AssurPack LLC Safety container

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3366610A1 (en) 2018-08-29
CN102026890A (en) 2011-04-20
CA2967105A1 (en) 2009-11-19
JP6465771B2 (en) 2019-02-06
US10232986B2 (en) 2019-03-19
US20180009577A1 (en) 2018-01-11
US20210147122A1 (en) 2021-05-20
JP2011520716A (en) 2011-07-21
CN102026890B (en) 2012-05-09
EP3098182B1 (en) 2018-03-07
CN102616474A (en) 2012-08-01
EP4026789A3 (en) 2023-01-11
EP3401233B1 (en) 2022-03-02
CA2724353A1 (en) 2009-11-19
JP2018087044A (en) 2018-06-07
EP2280882A2 (en) 2011-02-09
EP3098182A1 (en) 2016-11-30
CA2967105C (en) 2019-07-02
EP4026789A2 (en) 2022-07-13
CN102616474B (en) 2015-11-25
WO2009140627A2 (en) 2009-11-19
EP3401233A1 (en) 2018-11-14
CA2724353C (en) 2017-06-20
EP2280882B1 (en) 2016-07-06
JP2015212176A (en) 2015-11-26
EP2280882A4 (en) 2011-06-01
WO2009140627A3 (en) 2010-03-04
JP6545306B2 (en) 2019-07-17

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20210147122A1 (en) Vial with non-round seal
US11332298B2 (en) Resealable moisture tight container assembly for strips and the like having a lip snap seal
CA2585813C (en) Re-sealable moisture tight containers for strips and the like having alternative sealing mechanisms
US7213720B2 (en) Resealable moisture tight containers for strips and the like
EP2634108B1 (en) Container for receiving moisture sensitive goods
EA039371B1 (en) Container and lid

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BUCHOLTZ, MICHAEL;SUPRANOWICZ, RONALD;BELFANCE, JOHN;SIGNING DATES FROM 20120622 TO 20120625;REEL/FRAME:028432/0932

AS Assignment

Owner name: GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION, AS AGENT, IL

Free format text: PATENT SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:028912/0316

Effective date: 20120907

AS Assignment

Owner name: CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT,

Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:031968/0321

Effective date: 20131227

AS Assignment

Owner name: CAPITOL MEDICAL DEVICES, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: CV PARTNERS, ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C, NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: TOTAL INNOVATIVE PACKAGING, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: CAPITOL CUPS, INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:035104/0430

Effective date: 20150129

Owner name: CAPITOL MEDICAL DEVICES, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

Owner name: CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C, NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

Owner name: TOTAL INNOVATIVE PACKAGING, INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

Owner name: CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

Owner name: CV PARTNERS, ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

Owner name: CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

Owner name: CAPITOL CUPS, INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:CYPRIUM INVESTORS IV LP;REEL/FRAME:035105/0796

Effective date: 20150106

AS Assignment

Owner name: CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC, DELAWARE

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:CV HOLDINGS, L.L.C.;REEL/FRAME:035225/0593

Effective date: 20150130

AS Assignment

Owner name: BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, CALIFO

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:CAPITOL CUPS, INC.;TOTAL INNOVATIVE PACKAGING, INC.;CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC (F/K/A CV HOLDINGS, LLC);AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:035421/0366

Effective date: 20150129

STCV Information on status: appeal procedure

Free format text: ON APPEAL -- AWAITING DECISION BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

AS Assignment

Owner name: CAPITOL CUPS, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:046991/0095

Effective date: 20180827

Owner name: CSP TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA, LLC (F/K/A CV HOLD

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:046991/0095

Effective date: 20180827

Owner name: TOTAL INNOVATIVE PACKAGING, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:046991/0095

Effective date: 20180827

Owner name: CSP TECHNOLOGIES, INC., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:046991/0095

Effective date: 20180827

Owner name: CAPITOL PLASTIC PRODUCTS, L.L.C., ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:046991/0095

Effective date: 20180827

Owner name: CV PARTNERS, ALABAMA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:BARCLAYS BANK PLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:046991/0095

Effective date: 20180827

STCV Information on status: appeal procedure

Free format text: BOARD OF APPEALS DECISION RENDERED

STCV Information on status: appeal procedure

Free format text: APPLICATION INVOLVED IN COURT PROCEEDINGS

STCV Information on status: appeal procedure

Free format text: COURT PROCEEDINGS TERMINATED

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- AFTER EXAMINER'S ANSWER OR BOARD OF APPEALS DECISION

STCV Information on status: appeal procedure

Free format text: BOARD OF APPEALS DECISION RENDERED