U.S. patent application number 12/992749 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-02 for vial with non-round seal.
Invention is credited to John Belfance, Michael Bucholtz, Ronald Supranowicz.
Application Number | 20110127269 12/992749 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41319364 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110127269 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bucholtz; Michael ; et
al. |
June 2, 2011 |
VIAL WITH NON-ROUND SEAL
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.
Inventors: |
Bucholtz; Michael; (Balston
Spa, NY) ; Supranowicz; Ronald; (Lenox, MA) ;
Belfance; John; (Amsterdam, NY) |
Family ID: |
41319364 |
Appl. No.: |
12/992749 |
Filed: |
May 15, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
May 15, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2009/044193 |
371 Date: |
February 8, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61053277 |
May 15, 2008 |
|
|
|
61081514 |
Jul 17, 2008 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/378 ;
156/245; 221/133 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 33/48778 20130101;
B01L 2300/043 20130101; B65D 2543/00842 20130101; B01L 2200/141
20130101; B01L 2300/0609 20130101; B65D 43/162 20130101; B01L
3/50825 20130101; B65D 81/266 20130101; B65D 2543/00629 20130101;
B65D 2251/20 20130101; B01L 9/52 20130101; B65D 2543/00564
20130101; B65D 2543/00685 20130101; B65D 2543/0074 20130101; B65D
2543/00296 20130101; B01L 2300/0825 20130101; B01L 2300/123
20130101; B65D 2543/00148 20130101; B65D 2543/00796 20130101; B65D
2543/00962 20130101; B01L 2200/142 20130101; B65D 2543/00537
20130101; B01L 2200/0689 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/378 ;
221/133; 156/245 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/26 20060101
B65D081/26; B65D 83/08 20060101 B65D083/08; B29C 45/14 20060101
B29C045/14 |
Claims
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.degree. 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.
Description
[0001] 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
[0002] 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.
[0003] 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
[0004] 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.
[0005] 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.
[0006] 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.
[0007] 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.
[0008] 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.
[0009] 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.degree. F. (22.2.degree. C.).
[0010] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the interior space is
defined at least in part by an interior surface made of a desiccant
material.
[0011] 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.
[0012] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the reinforcement is an
insert assembled with the container.
[0013] 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.
[0014] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is made of a
desiccant material.
[0015] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is disposed
within the container.
[0016] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the insert is a liner
generally following the inner wall of the container.
[0017] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least one of the
ends of the container has an interior portion made of desiccant
material.
[0018] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the sidewall has an
interior portion made of desiccant material.
[0019] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the lid has an interior
portion made of desiccant material.
[0020] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the desiccant material is located in the interior space.
[0021] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the desiccant is a particulate material.
[0022] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more sachets.
[0023] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more canisters.
[0024] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the desiccant is provided in the form of one or more pellets.
[0025] 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.
[0026] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the sleeve is
integrally formed with at least one of the sidewall and an end
wall.
[0027] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the container further
comprises a tether linking the container body and lid.
[0028] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the tether comprises a
hinge.
[0029] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the tether comprises an
integral hinge.
[0030] 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.
[0031] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge defines a
pivot axis that is generally perpendicular to the major axis.
[0032] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge defines a
pivot axis that is generally parallel to the major axis.
[0033] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge extends from
the sidewall at least adjacent to the end of the major axis.
[0034] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the hinge extends from
the sidewall at least adjacent to the end of the minor axis.
[0035] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is at least
generally oval in cross-section.
[0036] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is at least
generally polygonal in cross-section.
[0037] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is at least
generally rectangular in cross-section.
[0038] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body has at least
one rounded corner.
[0039] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the dispensing opening is defined by the second end of the
sidewall.
[0040] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the lid comprises a
closed surface supporting the lid sealing surface.
[0041] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the lid comprises a
skirt surrounding and depending from the lid sealing surface.
[0042] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the skirt is generally
tubular.
[0043] 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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.
[0046] 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.
[0047] 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.
[0048] 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.
[0049] 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.
[0050] 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.
[0051] 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.
[0052] 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.
[0053] 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.
[0054] 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.
[0055] 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.
[0056] 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.
[0057] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and the lid
are formed in two shots in an injection mold.
[0058] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the respective shots
are a substantially moisture blocking polymeric material and a
desiccant polymeric material.
[0059] 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.
[0060] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is an open path
of communication between the reservoir and at least one of the
strip reservoirs.
[0061] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is an open path
of communication between the reservoir and each of the strip
reservoirs.
[0062] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least one open path
of communication is a perforation in the second platform.
[0063] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a desiccant
material exposed to the reservoir.
[0064] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the desiccant material
is in contact with the region.
[0065] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the region is defined
by an interior surface composed at least in part of a desiccant
material.
[0066] 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.
[0067] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the body interior surface is composed of a desiccant material.
[0068] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
at least one spline is composed of a desiccant material.
[0069] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the first platform is composed of a desiccant material.
[0070] Optionally, in any embodiment above, at least a portion of
the second platform is composed of a desiccant material.
[0071] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and at least
one of the first platform, the second platform, and a spline are
integral.
[0072] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and the first
platform are integral.
[0073] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and the second
platform are integral.
[0074] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and a spline
are integral.
[0075] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and each
spline are integral.
[0076] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body and each of
the first platform, the second platform, and the splines are
injection molded.
[0077] 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.
[0078] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second platform and
splines are formed in one shot in an injection mold.
[0079] 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.
[0080] 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.
[0081] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a desiccant
disposed in the region.
[0082] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the desiccant is a
particulate material.
[0083] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the desiccant is
provided in the form of one or more sachets, canisters, or
pellets.
[0084] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a cap for
covering the dispensing opening.
[0085] 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.
[0086] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a hinge
joining the dispenser body and cap.
[0087] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a desiccant
material disposed within the cap.
[0088] 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.
[0089] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the sleeve is
integrally formed with at least one of the first and second
platforms.
[0090] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second platform has
a first portion defining a first strip reservoir.
[0091] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second platform
further comprises a second portion non-coplanar with the first
portion defining a second strip reservoir.
[0092] Optionally, in any embodiment above, there is a second strip
reservoir defined by a portion of the first platform.
[0093] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second strip
reservoir is axially longer than the first strip reservoir.
[0094] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the body is generally
oval in cross-section.
[0095] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the splines lie
substantially parallel to the laterally extending long axis of the
oval.
[0096] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the splines lie
substantially parallel to the laterally extending short axis of the
oval.
[0097] 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.
[0098] 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.
[0099] 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.
[0100] 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.
[0101] 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.
[0102] 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.
[0103] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the second injection
mold cavity is modified.
[0104] Optionally, in any embodiment above, the first injection
mold cavity is not modified to customize the dispenser.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0105] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
container, shown with the lid open.
[0106] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section taken along section line
2-2 of FIG. 1.
[0107] FIG. 3 is a cross-section taken along section line 3-3 of
FIG. 1.
[0108] 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.
[0109] FIG. 5 is a cross-section similar to FIG. 3 of another
embodiment.
[0110] FIG. 6 is a cross-section similar to FIG. 3 of yet another
embodiment.
[0111] FIG. 7 is a cross-section of an additional embodiment of the
invention.
[0112] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
dispenser.
[0113] FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 8.
[0114] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 8.
[0115] FIG. 11 is a section of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along
section lines 11-11.
[0116] FIG. 12 is a section of the embodiment of FIG. 8 taken along
section lines 12-12.
[0117] 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.
[0118] FIG. 14 is a cutaway perspective view of another embodiment
of the invention.
[0119] FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG.
14.
[0120] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a desiccant insert defining
another embodiment of the dispenser.
[0121] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another desiccant insert
defining still another embodiment of the dispenser.
[0122] FIG. 18 is a view similar to FIG. 15 showing other potential
modifications to accommodate and uniformly present strips having
different lengths.
[0123] FIG. 19 is a fragmentary plan view of an alternative
embodiment in which the splines run perpendicular to their
orientation shown in FIG. 10.
[0124] FIG. 20 is a schematic sectional view of a mold cavity for
forming the body of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 12.
[0125] FIG. 21 is a schematic sectional view of a mold cavity for
forming the insert of a dispenser as shown in FIG. 12.
[0126] 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.
[0127] 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.
[0128] The following reference characters are used in the
Figures.
TABLE-US-00001 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
[0129] 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.
[0130] 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.
[0131] 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.
[0132] 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.
[0133] 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.
[0134] 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.
[0135] 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.
[0136] 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.
[0137] 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.
[0138] 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.
[0139] 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.
[0140] 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.
[0141] 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.
[0142] 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.
[0143] 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.
[0144] 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.
[0145] 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.RTM., which is a registered trademark of Monsanto
Company of St. Louis, Mo., U.S.A.
[0146] 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.
[0147] 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.
[0148] 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.
[0149] 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.
[0150] 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.
[0151] Alternatively, the body 12 and the desiccant polymeric
material 22 can formed in two shots in one injection mold.
[0152] 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.
[0153] 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.
[0154] 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.
[0155] 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.
[0156] 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.
[0157] 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.
[0158] FIGS. 10-12 in particular show various interior details of
the embodiment of FIG. 8.
[0159] 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.
[0160] 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.
[0161] 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.
[0162] 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.
[0163] 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.
[0164] 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.
[0165] 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.
[0166] 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.
[0167] 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.
[0168] 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.
[0169] 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.
[0170] 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.
[0171] 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.
[0172] 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.
[0173] 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.
[0174] 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.
[0175] 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.
[0176] 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.
[0177] 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.
[0178] 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.
[0179] 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.
[0180] 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.
[0181] 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.
[0182] 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.
[0183] 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.
[0184] FIGS. 16 and 17 show alternative embodiments of inserts,
respectively 210 and 212.
[0185] 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.
[0186] 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.
[0187] 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.
[0188] 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.
[0189] 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.
[0190] 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.
[0191] 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.
[0192] 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.
[0193] 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.
[0194] 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.
[0195] Further, both of these modifications could be made at the
same time, or either one could be used without using the other.
[0196] Of course, the opposite modification could be made in either
or both cases to lower the position of the second platform 150.
[0197] 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.
[0198] 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.
[0199] 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.
[0200] Moisture Ingress Test Method
[0201] The following is a suitable method of measuring moisture
ingress for determining whether a vessel is waterproof as defined
in this specification.
[0202] 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.times.43.70 mm wide.times.50.25 mm
tall.
[0203] 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.degree. 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:
[0204] N is Sample Type (A-F)
[0205] Sn is Sample Weight Gain=(Current Vial Weight minus Initial
Vial Weight at Start of Study)
[0206] Ctrl is Average Weight Gain of Control Samples=(SA+SB)/2
[0207] TS is Average Weight Gain of Test
Samples=(SC+SD+SE+SF)/4
[0208] MI is Moisture Ingress through Seal=(TS-Ctrl).
[0209] Working Example: Insert to Improve Seal Integrity of Oval
Vial (Container)
[0210] 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.
[0211] 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:
[0212] Moisture Ingress Results:
TABLE-US-00002 .mu.g H.sub.2O 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
[0213] In the above test results, the "best result" numbers are the
best single vial result of the several vials tested.
[0214] 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.
[0215] 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.
* * * * *