U.S. patent application number 11/296650 was filed with the patent office on 2007-06-07 for thermal and/or light protective container assemblies and their methods of use.
Invention is credited to Rajan Kumar, Bryan Oronsky, Neil Oronsky.
Application Number | 20070125677 11/296650 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38117642 |
Filed Date | 2007-06-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070125677 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Oronsky; Neil ; et
al. |
June 7, 2007 |
Thermal and/or light protective container assemblies and their
methods of use
Abstract
The invention features a thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly that includes a flexible outer and inner layer,
as well as a thermoregulatory material disposed between said outer
and inner layers. In general, the invention is directed to a
thermal and/or light-protective container assembly, such as a
form-fitting sleeve, that includes a flexible layered wall having
an opened end and a contiguous closed end, wherein the wall defines
a centrally located cavity. The wall further includes an outer
layer and an inner layer, wherein uniformly disposed between the
outer and inner layers is a thermoregulatory material that is
configured for insulating an object, and/or for transferring heat
or cold to the object, and/or maintaining the temperature of the
object disposed within the defined cavity of the sleeve.
Inventors: |
Oronsky; Neil; (Los Altos,
CA) ; Oronsky; Bryan; (Los Altos, CA) ; Kumar;
Rajan; (Santa Clara, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BOZICEVIC, FIELD & FRANCIS LLP
1900 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
SUITE 200
EAST PALO ALTO
CA
94303
US
|
Family ID: |
38117642 |
Appl. No.: |
11/296650 |
Filed: |
December 6, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/446 ;
206/776; 220/592.2; 220/592.25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01L 2300/0854 20130101;
B01L 2200/147 20130101; B01L 9/06 20130101; B01L 3/5082 20130101;
B01L 2300/1883 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/446 ;
220/592.2; 220/592.25; 206/776 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/20 20060101
B65D085/20; B65D 81/38 20060101 B65D081/38; B65D 25/54 20060101
B65D025/54 |
Claims
1. A thermal protective sleeve, comprising: a flexible layered wall
having an open end and a contiguous closed end, and defining a
centrally located cavity, said layered wall comprising an outer
layer and an inner layer; and a thermoregulatory material disposed
uniformly between said outer and said inner layers of said wall in
at least said contiguous closed end, wherein said thermoregulatory
material is capable of maintaining the temperature of a substance
disposed within the cavity.
2. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein said
thermoregulatory material is ammonium nitrate or calcium
chloride.
3. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein said outer
layer comprises a material selected from the group consisting of
foamed rubber, vulcanized rubber, neoprene, polyurethane, nylon,
lycra, plastic, and metal.
4. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein said outer
layer further comprises a protective silicon coating.
5. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein at least one
surface of a layer of the thermal protective sleeve comprises a
non-absorbent material so as to make the layer non-absorbent.
6. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 5, wherein an inner
surface of said outer layer comprises a non-absorbent material so
as to make the inner surface of said outer layer non-absorbent.
7. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 5, wherein at least one
of the outer or inner surface of said inner layer comprises a
non-absorbent material.
8. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein at least one
of said outer and inner layers is light-resistant.
9. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is
configured for receiving a material selected from the group
consisting of a test tube, vial, ampule, titer plate, a micro array
substrate, a Petri dish, a vase, a bottle, a flask, a beaker, a
cup, and a flower.
10. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 11, wherein the sleeve
comprises a member selected from the group consisting of a test
tube, vial, ampule, titer plate, a micro array substrate, a Petri
dish, a vase, a bottle, a flask, a beaker and a cup disposed in
said cavity.
11. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein said sleeve
further comprises a detachable top for closing said open end.
12. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 11, wherein said sleeve
comprises a locking element configured for securing said detachable
top in a closed position.
13. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein said sleeve
comprises an attachment element for attaching said assembly to an
external member, wherein said attachment element is a member
selected from the group consisting of a snap, a draw string, a
button, a zip closure, and a hook and loop fastener attachment.
14. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, further comprising a
transparent element.
15. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 14, further comprising a
cover element configured for covering and uncovering said
transparent element and a locking element configured for locking
said cover element in a closed position.
16. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 15, wherein said locking
element comprises a member selected from the group consisting of a
snap, a draw string, a button, a zipper, and a hook and loop
fastener attachment.
17. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 16, wherein said
transparent element is made from plastic or silica.
18. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, wherein a portion of
said wall further comprises a plurality of openings, so as to allow
a user to access an object disposed in the cavity; and a plurality
of flaps configured for closing said openings.
19. The thermal protective sleeve of claim 1, further comprising a
sealable valve for introducing and removing said thermoregulatory
material into said sleeve.
20. A rack support containing one or more of the thermal protective
sleeves of claim 1.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention is related to the field of thermal and/or
light protection for containers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Many samples for use in a variety of analyses are at least
partially sensitive to temperature, light, or both. For instance,
certain samples may be extremely sensitive to a rise in temperature
or to particular wavelengths of light, such as within the visible
light spectrum. Upon extended exposure to unfavorable temperatures
and/or light, these samples may be susceptible to degradation of
the analyte or undesirable impurities that may result from
degradation of other sample components.
[0003] Containers such as test tubes, slides, wells, plates,
bottles, columns, beakers, flasks, and other like storage and/or
reaction vessels are commonly used to store analytes for analysis
in various assays, as well as to store drugs or other agents to be
administered to subjects. Typically these containers are made from
a translucent or transparent material to allow visual inspection,
which make the contents of the containers susceptible to light
and/or temperature fluctuations. Accordingly, in certain instances,
a delay in analysis of samples or use of drugs stored in such
containers can result in sample or drug degradation in a matter of
minutes.
[0004] Where the sample is an analyte, such undesirable
circumstances may lead to erroneous results or inconclusive data.
For instance, analytes such as alanine transaminase, creatine
kinase, creatine, serum potassium, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and
the like are especially heat sensitive and subject to degradation
if not maintained at cold temperatures. Hence, assays wherein such
heat sensitive reactants are involved are particularly susceptible
to data irregularities if not protected from heat absorbance.
Additionally, analytes such as porphyrins, carotene, RBC folate,
Vitamin B12, and the like are especially light sensitive and
therefore subject to degradation if not protected from light.
Accordingly, assays involving these reactants may also be
susceptible to data irregularities.
[0005] In certain situations, such unfavorable temperature and
light conditions may be life threatening. For instance, bilirubin
is very sensitive to electromagnetic radiation in the visible
spectrum of light. The determination, measurement, and control of
the level of bilirubin in newborns are important in ensuring the
health of the new born infant. Unhealthy bilirubin levels lead to
jaundice, the accumulation of bile pigments in the brain, and can
lead to brain damage or death. However, bilirubin values decay
about 9% after two hours of sample processing if not protected from
light exposure. By protecting the bilirubin sample from light
exposure the decay rate may be slowed and a more accurate
measurement of the level in a newborn can be determined.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved thermal and/or
light-protective container assembly. Accordingly, such a thermal
and/or light protecting assembly consistent with the present
invention and described herein below is therefore provided to meet
those needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention features a thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly that includes an outer and inner layer, as well
as a thermoregulatory material disposed between said outer and
inner layers. In general, the invention is directed to a thermal
and/or light-protective container assembly, such as a form-fitting
sleeve, that includes a flexible layered wall having an opened end
and a contiguous closed end, wherein the wall defines a centrally
located cavity. The wall further includes an outer layer and an
inner layer, wherein uniformly disposed between the outer and inner
layers is a thermoregulatory material that is configured for
insulating an object, and/or for transferring heat or cold to the
object, and/or maintaining the temperature of the object disposed
within the defined cavity of the sleeve. The thermoregulatory
material may be uniformly disposed throughout the entire sleeve but
is at least uniformly disposed at the contiguous closed end.
[0008] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the invention provides a
thermal protective sleeve capable of maintaining the temperature,
or at least reducing the rate of heat exchange from a sample in a
container disposed in the sleeve. In addition to its thermal
regulating characteristics, a protective sleeve of the subject
invention may also be light protective and thereby protect an
encased object from light. In one embodiment, the invention
provides a thermal and/or light protective sleeve, as described
above, that further contains a test-tube, vial, ampule, cup,
bottle, beaker, flask, titer plate, slide, substrate, vase, or the
like disposed within the cavity of the sleeve.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a cross section view of a thermal sleeve with a
contiguous enclosed end or bottom portion and a top portion that is
configured for opening and closing, wherein said thermal sleeve is
in an open and empty configuration.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a cross section view of a thermal sleeve with a
contiguous enclosed end portion and a top portion that is
configured for opening and closing, wherein said thermal sleeve is
in a closed and full configuration.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross section view of a thermal sleeve with a
contiguous enclosed end portion and a top portion that is
configured for opening and closing, wherein said thermal sleeve is
in a closed and full configuration.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a thermal sleeve with a
contiguous enclosed end portion and a top portion that is
configured for opening and closing, wherein said thermal sleeve is
in an open and empty configuration.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a thermal sleeve with a
contiguous enclosed end portion and a top portion that is
configured for opening and closing, wherein said thermal sleeve is
in a closed and full configuration.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a thermal sleeve with a
contiguous enclosed end portion and a top portion that is
configured for opening and closing, wherein said thermal sleeve is
in a closed and full configuration.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
rectangular thermal sleeve configured as an array (e.g., in a
micro-titer plate configuration) suitable for receiving
materials.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a cross section view of an embodiment of a thermal
sleeve rack.
[0017] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
thermal sleeve rack.
[0018] FIG. 9B is a cross section view of another embodiment of a
thermal sleeve rack.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a thermal sleeve with a
removable top portion and a window for viewing materials contained
in the assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The invention features a thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly that includes an outer and inner layer, as well
as a thermoregulatory material disposed between said outer and
inner layers. In general, the invention is directed to a thermal
and/or light-protective container assembly, such as a form-fitting
sleeve, that includes a flexible layered wall having an opened end
and a contiguous closed end, wherein the wall defines a centrally
located cavity. The wall further includes an outer layer and an
inner layer, wherein uniformly disposed between the outer and inner
layers (in at least the contiguous closed end) is a
thermoregulatory material that is configured for insulating an
object, and/or for transferring heat or cold to the object, and/dr
maintaining the temperature of the object disposed within the
defined cavity of the sleeve.
Thermal and/or Light-Protective Container Assemblies of the
Invention
[0021] The invention provides for a thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly, which may be configured as a thermal protective
sleeve, that includes a layered wall having an outer layer, an
inner layer, and a thermal regulating material disposed in between
the outer and inner layers. The wall may further be flexible,
include an opened end, a contiguous closed end, and may be
configured to define a centrally located cavity. A feature of the
thermal regulating material is that it is capable of maintaining
the temperature of a contained object over a prolonged period of
time. For instance, because of the unique configuration of the
individual components, the thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly can both reduce the effects of unfavorable
temperature changes and protect item(s) contained in the assembly
from light. Therefore, when used in conjunction with a contained
object for the protection of a sample that includes an analyte, the
invention not only promotes more accurate data measurements, by
protecting thermo and/or light sensitive reactants from
degradation, but also leads to increased sample life.
[0022] Additionally, the thermal and/or light protective container
assembly (e.g., protective sleeve) may include an additional inner
layer that contains one or more color elements that may be
responsive to thermal or electromagnetic changes and thereby create
a visual effect that indicates whether a contained item is above or
below a specific set point. Such color changing elements include,
but are not limited here to:
[0023] A thermal and/or light protective container assembly of the
subject invention may have any form so long as it includes at least
a layered wall with an outer layer, an inner layer, and a
thermalregulatory material disposed in between said outer and inner
layers, wherein the wall defines at least one cavity (e.g., a
centrally located cavity). For simplicity and clarification of
description, and not in anyway to be limited thereto, the thermal
and/or light protective container assembly will be referred to as a
thermal protective sleeve, but may as well be any form of container
that has a layered wall (e.g., a flexible layered wall) with an
outer layer, an inner layer, and a thermoregulatory material in
between said outer and inner layers, such as an envelop, a pouch, a
rack, or the like. A "protective sleeve," therefore generally
refers to a thermal and/or light protective container assembly, as
discussed herein, which is adapted for containing and/or enclosing
an item and thereby protecting said item from unfavorable
temperature changes and/or electromagnetic radiation (e.g., light),
as described below in more detail.
[0024] A thermal and/or light protective container assembly (e.g.,
sleeve) of the subject invention may be constructed in any manner
from any suitable material well known, usually including those used
in the fabrication industry for the manufacture of thermo-resistant
and/or electromagnetic radiation protective articles. This includes
fireproof and/or solar proof fabrics, composites, weaves, and/or
the like, as will be described in greater detail below.
[0025] Furthermore, a thermal- and/or light protective container
assembly (e.g., sleeve) of the subject invention may have any shape
and be constructed to contain and protect any item, so long as it
contains a layered wall portion with an outer layer that is
configured for resisting temperature changes, an inner layer that
is configured for rapidly transferring thermal energy, and a
thermoregulatory material that is disposed between the outer and
inner layers and is configured for transferring or absorbing heat,
wherein the wall defines at least one cavity. The thermoregulatory
material may be uniformly disposed throughout the entire sleeve but
is at least uniformly disposed at the contiguous closed end. For
instance, the thermal and/or light protective sleeve of the subject
invention may be configured to contain a test-tube, a vial, an
ampule, a cup, a bottle, a beaker, a flask, a cylinder, titer
plate, micro-titer plate, an array assembly, a substrate, Petri
dish, a vase, one or more flowers, or the like within a centrally
defined cavity. Accordingly, a container assembly of the subject
invention, e.g., a sleeve, may have a square, rectangular,
circular, triangular, spherical shape or the like. Accordingly, in
certain embodiments the invention is directed to a thermal
protective sleeve that includes a contained test-tube, vial,
ampule, cup, bottle, beaker, flask, cylinder, titer plate,
micro-titer plate, array assembly, substrate, Petri dish, vase, one
or more flowers, or the like. The contained item may further
include a sample, ligand, analyte, or other material to be tested.
Hence, a container assembly of the invention having an item as
described herein disposed within the assembly is also contemplated
by the invention. Additionally, one or both of the outer and inner
layers of the wall of the thermal and/or light protective container
assembly of the subject invention may be clear, light resistant
(e.g., opaque), and/or be configured to go from clear to opaque in
response to a change in temperature or light, as will be described
in greater detail below.
[0026] As summarized above the subject invention is directed, in
representative embodiments, to a thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly, such as a thermal protective sleeve, that
includes a layered wall having an opened end, a contiguous closed
end, and defining a centrally located cavity. A feature of the wall
is that it is layered, having an outer layer, an inner layer, and a
thermoregulatory material disposed between the outer and inner
layers. In general, the outer layer and inner layers are made from
separate materials that are joined by means well known in the art
and described in more detail below. However, in certain embodiments
the thermal and/or light protective container assembly of the
subject invention may be fabricated from one or several different
materials and contain at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least
4 or more layers and/or coatings. In certain embodiments, the
thermoregulatory material is a solute (e.g., ammonium nitrate or
calcium chloride) that is separated from a solvent (e.g., water) by
a dividing layer that is configured for being ruptured upon the
application of a sufficient force. In certain embodiments, the
thermoregulatory material is a homogenous mixture that is not
divided into separate compartments (e.g., the container assembly
does not include a dividing layer configured for being
ruptured).
[0027] A feature of the subject invention is a thermoregulatory
material that is positioned between the outer and the inner layers
of the wall of the thermal and/or light protective container
assembly (e.g., sleeve). "Thermoregulatory material" as used herein
includes a material that provides for insulation for an item
disposed in the assembly (e.g., so as to provide for maintenance of
the temperature of the item in the assembly, or to slow the change
in temperature of the item), as well as a thermal transferring
material, such as a material that can provide for transfer of cold
or heat to the item disposed in the assembly. These various
components will now be described below with particular regard given
to the function they perform and how they interconnect with the
various other components of the thermal and/or light-protective
container assembly.
[0028] The protective container assemblies of the invention can be
composed of any suitable materials, and the outer layer and inner
layer of the layered wall can be made of materials selected so as
to enhance the thermal qualities of the material disposed between
the inner and outer layer. The materials used in the manufacture of
the protective container assemblies of the invention can be
selected to provide for a disposable assembly, and may further be
selected so as to provide a desired rigidity or flexibility to the
assembly. In certain embodiments it is desired that the layered
wall be flexible, in which case the inner and outer layers will be
composed of a flexible material. In certain embodiments it is
desired that the layered wall be semi-flexible, in which case the
inner and/or outer layers will be composed of a semi-flexible
material. In certain embodiments it is desired that the layered
wall be rigid, in which case the inner and/or outer layers will be
composed of a rigid material.
[0029] The outer layer of the layered wall may optionally be
configured for resisting changes in temperature, and may be
fabricated out of foamed or vulcanized rubber, neoprene,
polyurethane, nylon, lycra, plastic, metal, or the like. The outer
layer includes both an outer surface and an inner surface. It
should be noted that, as used herein "outer surface" in reference
to an outer layer or inner layer of the wall of the assembly refers
to that surface of the layer which is exposed to the environment.
As used herein "inner surface" in reference to an outer layer or
inner layer of the assembly wall refers to that surface that is in
contact with the thermoregulatory material disposed between the
outer and inner layers. Thus the outer surface of the outer layer
is defined generally as the portion of the outer layer that in
normal use is in contact with the ambient environment, and which
can serve as an interface for the user in manipulating a contained
item. An "inner surface" of the outer layer is defined generally as
the portion of the outer layer that in normal use is facing or is
in contact with the thermoregulatory material.
[0030] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the "outer surface" of the
outer layer of the layered wall may be coated with a protective
material, such as a silicon, Teflon, metallic material, plastic
coating, or the like so as to protect the assembly from damage due
to contact with the ambient environment. In another embodiment, the
"inner surface" of the outer layer is coated with at least one
other material so as to make the "inner surface" of the outer layer
non-absorbent and/or hydrophobic, and therefore not likely to
absorb a substantial amount of the thermoregulatory material.
Materials of the subject invention may be inherently hydrophobic or
made hydrophobic by treatment in accordance with well known methods
known and practiced in the arts. For instance, a material of the
invention may be contacted with a swelling agent and a base and
heating to alter the material, and then acidifying the treating
bath and contacting the material with a hydrophobic polymer, as
taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,803,256, incorporated herein its entirety
by reference. One advantage of this hydrophobic finish treatment is
that the resultant hydrophobicity of the treated fabric is
permanent. Chemicals for this treatment are available from Dow
Corning, Inc. Midland, Mich. under the trademark VESTAR.TM.. Other
hydrophobic finishes that may also be employed are MILESASE T.TM.,
available from ICI America, Inc., Wilmington, Del.; ALKARIL QFC.TM.
available from Chemical, Inc., Winds, Ga.; SCOTCHGARD.TM. Stain
Release Fabric Treatment FC-22, available from the 3M Company, St.
Paul, Minn.; TEFLON.TM., available from DuPont; and the like.
[0031] The thermal protective container assembly (e.g., the outer
layer) may further include an attachment element for attaching the
assembly to a rack, housing, or the like. The attachment element
may be any form of attachment element known in the art, such as but
not limited to a snap, draw string, button element, zip-fastener
(e.g., a zipper mechanism), hook and loop fastener attachment
(e.g., Velcro.TM.), a screw element, a hook element, or the like.
The outer layer may also include a sensor indicator for indicating
the temperature of a contained item (for instance, a thermo
strip).
[0032] In certain embodiments, the outer layer of the layered wall
is configured for protecting an enclosed item against the effects
of electromagnetic radiation, such as light. Accordingly, in one
embodiment, the outer layer may be fabricated out of or be
otherwise combined with a solar-resistant (e.g., a light resistant)
material such as, but not limited to: metallized polyester fabrics,
such as aluminized polyester, aluminized Mylar.TM., polyimide
and/or metallic foil, and the like. The outer layer may include
various film coatings, such as black polymer filters or fully
exposed, maximally dense black and white film, and the like. In
this embodiment, the film and/or other outer coating may be
prepared from acrylic polymers which are cross-linkable,
thermosettable, and self-bondable, as taught in U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,803,256 and 6,800,367 both of which are incorporated herein in
their entirety by reference. In certain embodiments, the outer
surface of the inner layer of the layered wall may also be
configured as above to protect against the effects of heat
transference.
[0033] The outer layer may be opaque, semi-opaque, or clear but
coated with an opaque material. The outer layer may be any color or
mix of colors. In one embodiment, the outer layer is reflective of
light. In another embodiment, the outer layer is absorbent of
light. In a further embodiment the outer layer is transparent and
the thermoregulatory material contains an additive that changes
color in response to temperature or light. Such an additive may
include silver chloride and/or copper chloride crystals, or the
like.
[0034] Another feature of the thermal and/or light protective
container assembly (e.g., sleeve) of the subject invention is a
layered wall with an inner layer. In certain embodiments, the inner
layer is configured for rapidly transferring thermal energy. The
inner layer of the layered wall includes both an outer surface and
an inner surface. An "inner surface" of the inner layer is defined
generally as the portion of the inner layer that in normal use is
facing, or is in contact with, the thermoregulatory material.
Accordingly, in one embodiment, the "inner surface" of the inner
layer is coated with a non-absorbent material, such as with those
described above, so as to make the inner layer non-absorbent, and
therefore not likely to absorb a substantial amount of the
thermoregulatory material. An "outer surface" of the inner layer is
the portion of the inner layer that in normal use contacts a
contained item. As will be apparent, any surface of any layer may
be coated with one or more non-absorbent and/or hydrophobic
materials as set forth above, including the "outer surface" of the
inner surface.
[0035] In certain embodiments, the inner layer of the layered wall
is configured for protecting an enclosed item against the effects
of electromagnetic radiation, such as light. Accordingly, in one
embodiment, the inner layer may be fabricated out of a
solar-resistant material such as, but not limited to, those set
forth above. The inner layer may be opaque, semi-opaque, or clear
but coated with an opaque material. The inner layer may be any
color or mix of colors, it may be reflective or absorbent of light,
or may be transparent.
[0036] The outer and inner layers of the layered wall may be joined
or attached to one another by any means known in the art, including
but not limited here to any one or more of the following:
stitching, blind-stitching, gluing, taping, fusing, welding,
ultrasonic welding, adhesives, hook-and-loop fasteners, chemical
bonding, thermal-chemical bonding, and the like. In one embodiment,
the outer and inner layers are attached to one another by blind
stitching. In another embodiment, the outer and inner layers are
attached to one another by thermal-chemical bonding wherein a
reactive hot melt adhesive is used to join the various layers.
[0037] Another feature of the thermal and/or light protective
container assembly of the subject invention is a thermoregulatory
material that is in between the outer and inner layers. The
thermoregulatory material may include any material capable of being
inserted between an outer and inner layer and configured for
absorbing heat from, or transferring heat to, an enwrapped or
enclosed item. Accordingly, in one embodiment the thermoregulatory
material is a cold thermoregulatory material that is configured for
absorbing heat from a contained item through the inner layer. In
one embodiment, the cold thermoregulatory material includes, but is
not limited to: ammonium nitrate, liquid nitrogen, water, or the
like. In certain embodiments, the thermoregulatory material is
non-freezable. In certain embodiments, the cold transferring
material is configured for maintaining the temperature of a
contained item or at least reducing heat absorbance of the
contained item for at least about 1 hour, for at least about 2
hours, for at least about 6 hours, for at least about 12 hours, for
at least about 24 hours or more. In one embodiment, the cold
transferring material may be cooled or frozen by placing the
protective container assembly within an appropriate cold
environment, such as but not limited to a refrigerator, cold room,
freezer, or the like. In certain embodiments, the container
assembly is configured in such a way so that the thermal regulatory
material may be added or removed from between the outer and inner
layers (e.g., the thermal regulatory material is replaceable).
Accordingly, in this embodiment, the container assembly may include
a nozzle, stem, or the like, for the introduction and removal of a
thermoregulatory material in between the outer and inner layers of
the container assembly.
[0038] In another embodiment, the thermoregulatory material is a
heat thermoregulatory material that is configured transferring heat
to a contained item through the inner layer of the layered wall. In
one embodiment, the heat thermoregulatory material includes, but is
not limited to: calcium chloride, or the like. In certain
embodiments, the heat transferring material is configured for
maintaining the temperature of a contained item or at least
reducing heat loss for at least about 1 hour, for at least about 2
hours, for at least about 6 hours, for at least about 12 hours, for
at least about 24 hours or more. In one embodiment, the heat
transferring material may be heated by placing the protective
container assembly within an appropriate warm environment, such as
but not limited to a stove, oven, microwave, or the like.
[0039] Other components of the thermal and/or light protective
container assembly (e.g., sleeve) of the subject invention is a
layered wall with a top and a bottom portion. The top portion and
bottom portion of the assembly may be provided in different
configurations, as will be described in greater specificity below.
In general, in one embodiment, the top and bottom portions of the
container assembly are open and the assembly is in the
configuration of a band that slides over the item to be contained,
such that the item to be contained in the band may extend through
the top portion, the bottom portion, or both. In another
embodiment, the top portion is open, and the bottom portion is
closed, such that the assembly provides a blind-ended sleeve (or
pouch) into which the item is received. In this configuration, the
bottom portion may be a contiguous, closed end portion of the wall.
In a further embodiment, the container assembly is in the form of
an envelop that is configured for encasing an item to be contained
and is capable of securely attaching to itself by a suitable
attachment or locking element and thereby enclosing the item within
the envelop. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the top and bottom
portions of the envelop are relative to the item therein
contained.
[0040] In yet another embodiment, the container assembly includes a
rack support that is configured for housing a plurality of items,
for instance a plurality of container assemblies (e.g., sleeves)
into which may be inserted various vessels, such as tube elements,
test tubes, microarray tubes, Eppendorf tubes, vials, ampules,
cylinders, centrifuge tubes, micro-centrifuge tubes, shaker tubes,
and the like. In another embodiment, the fabrication of the
container assembly includes a stretchable weave material configured
to make the assembly form fitting. These exemplary embodiments are
described in greater detail below.
[0041] An additional component that may be added to the wall of the
thermal and/or light protective container assembly of the subject
invention is a viewing, or transparent element, for instance in the
form of a window. The viewing element may be in any configuration
and made from any material so long as it allows a viewer to view
the contents within the protective container. For instance, the
viewing element may be a transparent section of material, for
instance a clear plastic, that is incorporated into the wall (e.g.,
the outer and inner layers), and allows visual access to the
centrally located cavity of the container assembly, whereby a
contained item (e.g., vessel) may be observed. The viewing element
may fabricated from any transparent material well known in the art,
including but not limited hereto: plastic, silica, or the like. The
viewing element may also include a flap or cover element that is
configured for opening and closing so as to prevent or minimize the
access of electromagnetic radiation, such as light, from contacting
a contained sample when visual access is not desired. The flap or
cover element may also contain a locking element for securing the
flap or cover element in a closed configuration. The locking
element may be any locking element known in art and including, but
not limited hereto, a snap, draw string, button element,
zip-fastener (e.g., a zipper mechanism), hook and loop fastener
attachment (e.g., Velcro.TM. strip), a screw element, a hook
element, or the like.
[0042] A further component that may be added the thermal and/or
light protective container assembly (e.g., sleeve) of the subject
invention is a lid, cap, or flap portion for enclosing a top (i.e.,
an opened end portion of the layered wall) or bottom portion of the
assembly. The lid, cap, or flap portion may include one lid, cap,
flap, etc. or may include a plurality of such elements. The cap or
flap portion may be attached or detachable and is configured for
opening and closing and thereby enclosing a contained item within
the bounds of an interior space or lumen of the container assembly.
The container assembly may also include a locking element that may
be configured for securing a top or bottom portion, a top, a flap,
a cover, or the like in a closed configuration or may be configured
for attaching one portion of the container assembly to itself, as
discussed above in relation to the wrap configuration. The locking
or attachment element may be any kind of element so long as it is
capable of securing a top, bottom or side portion, cap, flap,
cover, wrap, or the like in a closed configuration. In certain
embodiments, and not to be limited hereby, the locking element is
in the form of a snap, draw string, button, zip-closure (e.g., a
zipper or zip-and-lock mechanism), hook and loop fastener (e.g.,
Velcro.TM.) attachment, or the like.
[0043] Another component that may be added to the thermal and/or
light protective container assembly is one or more sensors, such as
a temperature, pressure sensor, or the like, and a sensor indicator
for indicating a sensed parameter. In one embodiment, a protective
container assembly includes a temperature sensor and a temperature
indicator for indicating the temperature of a contained item.
[0044] A feature of the thermal and/or light protective container
assembly of the subject invention is that it is adapted for
containing one or more items and protecting them from unfavorable
thermal or electromagnetic conditions. Accordingly, such a
container may have a variety of configurations, shapes, sizes,
colors, and the like, and may have a mesh-like configuration.
Exemplary embodiments of various configurations will now be
described in greater detail below.
[0045] In a further object of the invention, a method of using the
subject thermal and/or light protective container assembly is
provided, which includes using the protective container assembly of
the subject invention, e.g., cooling or heating the container
assembly, for instance by placing the assembly in a refrigerator,
freezer, oven, microwave, of the like, opening the container,
inserting a vessel into a lumen of the container, and if a closure
element is provided closing and securing the closure element and
thereby encasing or enwrapping the vessel within the protective
container assembly.
EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0046] Various embodiments of the subject invention will now be
described with reference to the figures. For clarity and
convenience, the container assembly is exemplified in the figures
and below as a sleeve (e.g., a pouch) or rack assembly. However, as
described above, other embodiments of container assemblies, such as
thermal envelop assemblies, are contemplated by the invention.
FIGS. 1-3 show cross sectional views of an exemplary thermal and/or
light protective container assembly 10 according to an
illustrative, but non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 4-6 show perspective views of the container assembly 10.
[0047] As can be seen in FIGS. 1-3, in certain embodiments, the
thermal and/or light protective container assembly (e.g., thermal
protective sleeve) of the invention 10 includes a flexible layered
wall with an outer layer 12, an inner layer 16, and an in-between
layer 14 (i.e., a thermal resistant layer). The layered wall
defines a centrally located cavity 19. The outer layer 12 includes
an outer surface 13a and an inner surface 13b. Outer surface 13a
contacts the ambient environment and may be coated with a
protective coating such as a silicon coating, so as to protect the
assembly from damage. Inner surface 13b contacts the in-between
layer 14 and may be coated with a non-absorbent material so as to
prevent or reduce absorbance of the thermal resistant in-between
layer 14. The outer layer 12 is configured for resisting changes in
temperature and/or protecting the cavity of the container assembly
from electromagnetic radiation, e.g., light. The inner layer 16
includes an inner surface 17a and an outer surface 17b. Inner
surface 17a contacts the in-between layer 14 and may also be coated
with a non-absorbent material. The inner layer 16 is configured for
rapidly transferring thermal energy and/or protecting the lumen of
the container assembly from electromagnetic radiation, e.g., light.
The in-between layer 14 is in-between the outer layer 12 and the
inner layer 16 and is made of a thermal resistant material. The
in-between thermo resistant layer may be configured for absorbing
heat through said inner layer (e.g., thereby maintaining or
lowering the temperature of a contained item) or transferring heat
through said inner layer (e.g., thereby maintaining or increasing
the temperature of a contained item or decreasing the rate of heat
loss).
[0048] FIG. 1 shows a thermal and/or light protective container
assembly 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention,
wherein the container is configured as a sleeve that includes an
attached cap element 18 and is in an empty configuration. FIG. 2
shows a protective container assembly 10 with an attached cap
element 18, wherein the container encloses an item, such as a test
tube (not shown). It is to be noted that although with respect to
the figures, the protective container assembly (e.g., sleeve) is
depicted as an assembly for containing a test tube, this is for
illustrative purposes only, as the configuration of the assembly
will vary with the item to be contained. For instance, the assembly
can be configured to contain a microarray tube, Eppendorf tube,
centrifuge tube, micro-centrifuge tube, shaker tube, a vial, an
ampule, a cup, a bottle, a beaker, a flask, a cylinder, titer
plate, micro-titer plate, an array assembly, a substrate, Petri
dish, a vase, or the like.
[0049] As can be seen with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the
protective container assembly 10 may include a transparent (window)
portion 22, for allowing visual access to a contained item, and/or
my include a thermal strip 24 for indicating the temperature of an
enclosed item.
[0050] With respect to FIGS. 4-6, FIG. 4 shows a front perspective
view of a thermal and/or light protective sleeve assembly 10 of the
present invention. As can be seen, the protective container 10
includes an attached lid 18, configured for opening and closing and
thereby enclosing, containing, and protecting an inserted vessel.
Accordingly, in certain embodiments the invention is directed
methods of containing an item and to items contained within the
container assembly of the subject invention. For instance, in one
embodiment, the invention is directed to a method for containing an
item within an assembly of the invention which includes positioning
an item so as to be inserted into the centrally defined cavity of
the layered wall and inserting the item therein so as to cause the
item to be encased within the assembly. The method may further
include closing an included cap or top portion so as to completely
enclose the contained item within the assembly and may include
securing the cap portion in a closed position via a locking
element. Additionally, in certain embodiments the invention is
directed to a thermal protective container assembly of the
invention that contains an item inserted therein, for instance a
microarray tube, Eppendorf tube, centrifuge tube, micro-centrifuge
tube, shaker tube, a vial, an ampule, a cup, a bottle, a beaker, a
flask, a cylinder, titer plate, micro-titer plate, an array
assembly, a substrate, Petri dish, a vase, or the like.
[0051] With respect to FIG. 4, the protective container assembly 10
further includes a transparent element 22, such as a window
element, that is configured for allowing visual access to a
contained vessel. Transparent element 22 includes a cover or flap
portion configured for opening, closing, and being locked in place.
FIG. 5 shows a side perspective view of the protective container
assembly 10 with an attached lid 18 in a closed position. The
container may additionally include an attached thermo strip (not
shown). FIG. 6 shows an opposite side perspective view of the
assembly of FIG. 5. As can be seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the protective
container assembly 10 contains a vessel (not shown) such as a
test-tube.
[0052] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a
thermal and/or light protective container assembly of the present
invention. In this embodiment, a rack support includes a plurality
of protective container assemblies that are fit into orifices of
the rack support and attached to the rack. The support rack 100 is
adapted for receiving and retaining (e.g., housing) one or more,
for instance a plurality, of protective container assemblies (i.e.,
sleeves). Accordingly, in one embodiment, the support rack 100
includes a plurality of protective container assembly sleeves 110
that are supported within orifices 119 in the rack support 100. A
sample may be contained within a tube, such as an Eppendorf tube,
test tube, or the like, which is then placed within a centrally
located cavity of an individual protective assembly sleeve 110,
within the rack support 100. Protective container assembly sleeves
110 are configured in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention, as set forth above, and include attached lids 118, that
are configured for opening and closing. In this manner, a plurality
of vessels may be inserted into the one or more assembly pouches
within the rack support and thereby be protected from thermal
and/or electromagnetic radiation, e.g., light.
[0053] A thermal and/or light protective container assembly of the
present invention may also be configured as a titer plate container
(pouch assembly), such as a micro-titer plate container. In this
embodiment, a portion of the layered wall may contain a plurality
of orifices or openings 119 that open up to the centrally located
cavity of the protective container pouch assembly, which may be
included as a portion of a rack support. For instance, instead of
housing one or more protective assembly sleeves, as described
above, the assembly 100 could itself be a protective container
assembly of the present invention that has a single, centrally
located cavity (not shown) that is configured for receiving a
vessel, such as a micro-titer plate. The cavity can be accessed by
an openable end (not shown), which may be positioned at a side
opposite or adjacent the plurality of orifices. In this embodiment,
a micro-titer-plate may be inserted into the cavity, and the cavity
may then be closed by a fold, cap, or other closure element (not
shown). Individual portions (e.g., wells) of the microtiter plate
may then be accessed by the plurality of openings 119 included in
the wall of the protective container assembly 100. A plurality of
flap elements 118 may also be included to close the plurality of
openings 119 when access to the encased item (e.g., micro titer
plate) is not desired. In this embodiment, each opening 119 and
flap element 118, if included, should be aligned with a single well
of the enclosed micro-titer plate. It is to be understood that
although this embodiment is disclosed with reference to a
micro-titer plate, this is for illustrative purposes only, as the
actual configuration, number of orifices or openings and closure
elements, etc. within the wall of the assembly may vary with the
item to be contained. For instance, the item to be contained may be
a Petri dish, slide, substrate, micro-array slide, etc. in which
case the actual dimensions of the assembly will be configured
accordingly so as to enclose the item to be contained and thereby
protect it from temperature (e.g., heat) and/or light.
[0054] FIG. 8 shows a thermal and/or light protective container
assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a of a thermal
and/or light protective container assembly in the configuration of
a rack. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the protective container
assembly itself is configured as an assembly rack 100, accordingly
in this embodiment the layered wall portion is not flexible but
rather is semi-rigid or rigid and contains a plurality of cavities
(e.g., 19). Assembly rack 100 is configured for holding one or more
vessels and includes outer layer 12, inner layer 16, and an
in-between layer 14 that includes a thermoregulatory material.
Assembly rack 100 further includes lids 18a-18h. Although only 8
orifices and lids are shown, it is understood that this is for
purposes of exemplification only, as an assembly rack of the
invention may include any feasible number of orifices into which a
vessel may be inserted. Accordingly, in the embodiment of FIG. 8,
any one of lids 18a-18h may be opened, a vessel, such as a
test-tube, may be placed inside a lumen 19 of the container
assembly, the lid closed, and the vessel may thereby be protected
from thermal and/or electromagnetic radiation e.g., light.
[0055] FIGS. 9A-9B show another embodiment of a rack support of the
present invention. FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the subject
rack. FIG. 9B is a side view of the subject rack. As can be seen in
FIGS. 9A-9B, the rack 200 includes a plurality of thermal and/or
light protective container assemblies 10a-t, each of which are
configured in accordance with the invention as described above.
Although only 20 thermal and/or light protective container
assemblies are shown, it is understood that this is for purposes of
exemplification only, as any feasible number of assemblies may be
included. Accordingly, in this embodiment, a vessel, such as a
test-tube, may be placed inside a centrally defined cavity 19 of
any one of protective container assemblies 10a-10t which may then
be closed by a lid, and thereby be protected from thermal and/or
electromagnetic radiation, e.g., light. Additionally, each
protective container assembly includes attachment elements 21a and
21b (not shown) for attaching the assembly to a rack attachment
portion 23. In this manner the protective container assemblies 10
may be rotated by the rotation of rack attachment portion 23.
[0056] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a thermal and/or light
protective container assembly of the invention. The protective
container assembly contains a transparent element 24 with a cover
flap 26, wherein the cover flap 26 is in an open configuration.
Also included is an attachment element 28, such as a hook and loop
fastener (e.g., a Velcro.TM. strip), for securing a cover flap in a
closed position. A detachable lid 18 is also included. As can be
seen in FIG. 10, a vessel 30, such as a test tube, has been
inserted into the protective container assembly.
* * * * *