U.S. patent application number 13/698233 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-02 for method and apparatus for suspending a container.
This patent application is currently assigned to ST REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Eric Cognard. Invention is credited to Eric Cognard.
Application Number | 20130105503 13/698233 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44533301 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130105503 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cognard; Eric |
May 2, 2013 |
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUSPENDING A CONTAINER
Abstract
A receiving element constructed within a container, the
receiving element having a body with a first end and a second end
wherein the body is formed from a plurality of separate pieces
configured into an annular arrangement in a tension fit in a neck
of the container. A passage formed in the body from the first end
of the body to the second end of the body creates a cavity and an
internal surface having a groove for receiving a locking
element.
Inventors: |
Cognard; Eric;
(Fontenai-Les-Louvets, FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cognard; Eric |
Fontenai-Les-Louvets |
|
FR |
|
|
Assignee: |
ST REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES,
LLC
Navasota
TX
|
Family ID: |
44533301 |
Appl. No.: |
13/698233 |
Filed: |
May 18, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
May 18, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US11/37034 |
371 Date: |
January 16, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61345631 |
May 18, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/735 ;
29/428 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 29/49826 20150115;
B65D 77/0493 20130101; B65D 81/05 20130101; B65D 81/3844 20130101;
A01N 1/0257 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/735 ;
29/428 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/05 20060101
B65D081/05 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 20, 2011 |
FR |
11/53433 |
Claims
1. A receiving element for an interior container having an opening,
the receiving element comprising: a. a body with a first end, a
second end and an external surface, wherein the second end is
larger than the opening of the interior container; b. a passage in
the body from the first end to the second end forming an internal
cavity and an internal surface of the body; c. an upper lip on the
external surface located at the first end configured for contacting
a top surface at the opening of the container; d. a base located at
the second end of the body; and e. an internal groove formed on the
internal surface which receives a locking element thereby
suspending the container relative to the locking element; wherein
the body is formed by a plurality of separate pieces configured
inside the opening of the interior container.
2. The receiving element of claim 1 wherein the body further
comprises a neck.
3. The receiving element of claim 2 wherein the neck of the body is
dimensioned to contact the interior of a neck of the container.
4. The receiving element of claim 2 wherein the neck of the body is
dimensioned to contact the interior surface of the interior
container.
5. The receiving element of claim 1 wherein at least one of the
plurality of pieces is formed with parallel sides.
6. The receiving element of claim 3 wherein all but one piece can
be configured within the container leaving an opening with parallel
edges.
7. The receiving element of claim 1 wherein the body is comprised
of at least 4 separate pieces.
8. The receiving element of claim 6 wherein the body is comprised
of at least 5 separate pieces.
9. The receiving element of claim 7 wherein the body if comprised
of at least 6 separate pieces.
10. The receiving element of claim 8 wherein the body is comprised
of at least 8 separate pieces.
11. The receiving element of claim 1 comprising three designs for
the pieces.
12. The receiving element of claim 1 comprising four designs for
the pieces.
13. The receiving element of claim 1 wherein any two of the
plurality of pieces cannot pass through the interior container
opening when configured for forming the receiving element.
14. The receiving element of claim 1 wherein at least one piece is
configured to have two sides and the remaining pieces are
configured in an arrangement having a single opening with two edges
corresponding to the two sides.
15. The receiving element of claim 14 wherein the at least one
piece configured to have two sides is slidable into the single
opening inside the container forming a complete body on the
interior of the container.
16. The receiving element of claim 15 wherein the two sides a
parallel.
17. The receiving element of claim 15 wherein the two sides are at
converging angles towards a distal end when the piece is configured
for placement in the interior container.
18. An annular receiving element constructed partially within an
interior container, the annular receiving element comprising: a. a
body with a first end and a second end wherein the body is formed
from a plurality of separate pieces configured into an annular
arrangement in a tension fit in a neck of the container; b. a
passage from the first end of the body to the second end of the
body forming a cavity and an internal surface; and c. a groove in
the internal surface for receiving a locking element.
19. The annular receiving sleeve according to claim 18 further
comprising an upper lip formed at the first end for contacting the
top surface of an interior container.
20. The annular receiving sleeve according to claim 18 further
comprising an inner lip for distributing forces amongst the
plurality of pieces.
21. A method for suspending an interior container comprising the
steps of: a. forming a receiving element at an opening of the
interior container; b. securing the receiving element with the
opening of the interior container; c. inserting a locking element
into the opening of the interior container, wherein the locking
element is coupled to a first portion of an exterior container; d.
engaging the receiving element with the locking element; and e.
engaging the first portion of the exterior container with a second
portion of the exterior container surrounding the interior
container.
22. The method according to claim 21 wherein the step of forming a
receiving element further comprises the steps of: a. placing a
plurality of pieces of the receiving element in the opening; b.
arranging the plurality of pieces into an annular body missing a
single section, where the missing single section has two edges; c.
placing a last piece of the receiving element into the opening, the
last piece having two side surfaces corresponding to the edges; d.
sliding the last piece of the receiving element into the missing
section.
23. The method of claim 17 further comprising the step of
suspending the interior container within a second container
associated with the locking element.
24. The method of claim 17 wherein the edges of the missing section
comprise two parallel edges and the two side surfaces of the last
piece comprise two corresponding parallel side surfaces.
25. The method of claim 17 wherein the edges of the missing section
comprise two edges which converge in a distal direction relative to
the center of container and the two side surfaces of the last piece
comprise two corresponding converging surfaces side surfaces.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present embodiments generally relate to transportation
and storage devices and more particularly relate to a method and a
receiving element for suspending an interior container, such as a
bulb, for transport and/or storage.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Containers exist in a number of shapes and sizes for
transporting and/or storing a variety of products. Some products,
such as biological materials, require very low temperatures.
Generally, these products are stored with a cryogenic fluid, such
as, liquid nitrogen at about -196 degrees Celsius. Transporting
biological materials with cryogenic fluid liquid nitrogen presents
a number of problems. These new problems are commonly handled in
one of two ways.
[0003] One method for shipping liquid nitrogen cooled products
involves shipment in a hermetically sealed container. Since the
liquid nitrogen transitions from a liquid phase to a gas phase
during shipment, the hermetically sealed container requires a
system to control the initial pressure of the container. Otherwise,
excessive pressure would build as the liquid nitrogen transfers
phases. Hermetically sealed containers can be expensive and bulky,
and the required system for controlling the initial pressure can
also result in increased costs.
[0004] The other method for transporting liquid nitrogen involves
the use of a non-hermetically sealed container. Such containers
allow nitrogen vapors to freely escape the container, but must stay
upright in order to avoid leakage or spilling of the liquid
nitrogen. Often non-hermetically sealed large metal containers or
cryostats are used for the shipment of cryopreserved materials.
These double walled metal containers typically consist of a first
wall separated from a second inner wall which holds the liquid
nitrogen. The cryostats weight alone contributes significantly to
the cost of shipping. Additionally, the long cylindrical shapes of
typical cryostats can often put them at risk for tipping during
shipment.
[0005] One solution resides in dry shipping technologies, which
include absorbents for absorbing cryogenic fluids within lighter
containers like those disclosed in international PCT patent
publication WO 2008/125434, incorporated herein by reference.
[0006] WO 2008/125434 discloses a non-hermetically sealed container
where an insulation bulb is suspended within an outer container.
This container is suspended either by direct contact with the
interior neck of the bulb or with a unitary elastic sleeve
interposed within the neck. Both disclosed embodiments have
disadvantages. In the embodiment where a bulb is suspended with
direct contact to the interior neck of the bulb localized stress
points are created which can result in rupturing the brittle bulb,
which would typically be constructed from glass. The unitary
elastic sleeve serves to distribute stress throughout the neck, but
lacks rigidity for firmly securing the bulb within the outer
container. Both embodiments lack the particularly ability to lock a
bulb into a suspended position when loaded with products and
cryogenic fluids.
[0007] In order to overcome these shortcomings of the prior art,
there exists a need for a method and an improved device to suspend
a container for shipment. More particularly, a need exist for
suspending a first container within a second container with an
improved receiving element for locking the containers in position
relative to each other. The first container can be a double walled
container for holding liquid nitrogen, while the second container
can be an external shipping package.
[0008] A need exists for an improved method and an apparatus for
suspending a container for shipping cryopreserved materials in
non-hermetically sealed containers, and particularly for
maintaining the upright position of the container during
shipment.
[0009] In order to maintain the integrity of the container and to
maintain access to materials stored therein, there exists a need
for a receiving element configured within the container. More
particularly, a need exists for a sturdy element configured with
the container for suspending the container with qualities allowing
for the firm locking of the suspension of the container.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Embodiments of the claimed invention meet these needs, and
more, by providing a body constructed from complimentary slices or
pieces which can individually pass through the opening of a
container and which are configured within the container in a
tension fit to provide the body affixed in the container for
receiving a locking element generally at the opening of the
container. Once the body receives the locking element the container
is then locked into place relative to the locking element and can
be suspended from the locking element.
[0011] In one embodiment a receiving element is configured for an
interior container with an opening. The interior container can be a
bulb, a Dewar vessel, or another container. The receiving element
can have a body with a first end, a second end and an external
surface. The second end of the body can be larger than the opening
of the interior container or than a neck of the container such that
the receiving element, once in the interior container, is larger
than the opening of the interior container. The receiving element
can include a passage from the first end of the body to the second
end of the body forming an internal cavity and an internal surface
of the body. An upper lip can be formed on the external surface
located at the first end of the body and can be configured for
contacting a top surface at the opening of the container. A base
can be formed at the second end of the body, and an internal groove
can be formed on the internal surface of the body. The shape of the
body's exterior can provide a fit within the container while being
too large for removal from the container, and the internal groove
can be configured for receiving a locking element. A locking
element can be inserted in the container and interlock with the
receiving element thereby suspending the container relative to the
locking element.
[0012] The construction of the body on the interior of the interior
container can be achieved by the assembly of separate pieces or
slices which together form the body. While the pieces can be joined
together with an adhesive or by other means, the pieces can also,
when properly arranged at the neck or opening of the container, but
in a tension fit ultimately held in place by the interior surface
of the container itself To this end, the body would have a
generally annular cross section for cylindrical containers, but
that other shapes are envisioned within the scope of the present
invention. For example, in the event the container has a cross
section other than cylindrical, the receiving element would be
formed in shape with an external surface matched to the internal
surface of the container. Regardless of the shape of the container
and receiving element, the receiving element would be constructed
from several pieces, where each piece individually passes through
the opening for arrangement on the interior of the container. The
body can be formed from a mold and dimensioned to fit tightly in
the top of a container. Subsequently, the body can be cut in order
to produce a plurality of appropriately dimensioned pieces for
passing into the interior of the container. In order to achieve
this fit, the pieces can be constructed from Styrofoam, plastic,
rubber, or another sufficiently elastic material; preferably a
lighter material.
[0013] In one embodiment the body can further comprise a neck
portion and a base portion. The neck portion can be more narrow and
dimensioned to fit in the neck of the container. The base portion
can expand outward from the neck and can be dimensioned to match
the internal surface of the top portion of the container.
[0014] In another embodiment the body is divided into a plurality
of pieces where at least one piece is configured with parallel side
edges. Typically, when dividing an object with an annular or
circular cross section cuts are made through the center point
resulting in each piece having edges which converge towards the
center point, a proximal end, and diverge towards the outer
surface, a distal end. In order to construct the body within the
container, all but one piece can be configured into position
leaving one last piece and one missing section. The last piece must
either be slid in from the top or slid from the center of the
container outwards, or slid in some combination of these
directions. A piece cut in the typical manner would not be able to
reach its final position inside the interior of the container by
horizontally sliding into position because the distal surface would
not pass the gap of the proximal surfaces formed by the neighboring
pieces. Nor would the final piece be able to be dropped vertically
into position because the base has a greater radius than the neck,
so the bottom most portion would not pass the edges of the
neighboring pieces at the top of the container.
[0015] In order to overcome this problem the present methods and
devices provide for cutting the body in several pieces including at
least one piece cut with parallel side edges. The remaining pieces
are configured to have a missing section with corresponding
parallel side edges. This can be accomplished at the time the body
is cut by providing at least two parallel cuts, as opposed to cuts
through the center point or the circular or annular
cross-section.
[0016] In another embodiment, the final piece can be configured
such that side edges can converge towards a distal end. The
remaining pieces of the body can form a body with a missing
section, where the missing section has corresponding edges created
by those pieces neighboring the missing section. In this way, the
final piece can be slid into place in the same manner as a final
piece with parallel sides.
[0017] The body can be divided into four separate pieces, five
separate pieces, six separate pieces, or more pieces. For example,
the body can be divided into at least eight separate piece, at
least ten separate pieces, or at least twelve separate pieces. The
container dimensions can dictate what size pieces can pass into the
interior and thus what how many pieces are required to achieve that
size.
[0018] The number of pieces can also dictate the number of piece
designs formed when the body is divided. In one embodiment, the
body can be constructed from a plurality of pieces having three
distinct designs. In yet another embodiment, the body can be
constructed from a plurality of pieces having four distinct
designs. While in still another embodiment, the body can be
constructed from pieces having more than four distinct designs.
[0019] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method
for suspending an interior container. The method can begin with the
step of forming a receiving element at an opening of the interior
container. The receiving element can then be secured with the
opening of the interior container. A locking element can then be
inserted into the opening of the interior container for engaging
the receiving element where the locking element can be coupled to a
first portion of an exterior container. The receiving element is
both secured within the interior container and engaged with the
locking element sufficiently to suspend the container by the
locking element and the first portion of the exterior container can
be attached to a second potion of the exterior container which then
surrounds the suspended interior container.
[0020] In one embodiment of the method, the step of forming the
receiving element can begin by placing a plurality of pieces of the
receiving element in the opening. The method can continue by
arranging the plurality of pieces into an annular body missing a
single section, where the missing section has two edges. A last
piece of the receiving element having two sides corresponding to
the edges of the missing section can then be placed in the opening
and slide into the place of the missing single section thereby
completing the body formed at the opening of the container.
[0021] In one embodiment, the corresponding edges of the single
missing element and the last piece can be generally parallel edges.
In another embodiment, the corresponding edges of the single
missing element and the last piece can converge towards their
distal end relative to the center of the container.
[0022] In another embodiment, the container can be suspended within
another container, such as a shipping container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a container in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a cover for
interfacing the receiving element of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a sectional view of a cover for
interfacing the receiving element of the present invention.
[0026] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate axial sectional views of closing
and controlling components of the container.
[0027] FIG. 5 illustrates an axial sectional view of a container in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 6A illustrates a partially exploded view of a receiving
element in accordance with certain embodiments of the present
invention.
[0029] FIG. 6B illustrates an isometric view of a receiving element
in accordance with certain embodiments of the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 6C illustrates an isometric view of a receiving element
in accordance with certain embodiments of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 7A illustrates one embodiment of a receiving element in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 7B illustrates one embodiment of a receiving element in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 7C illustrates one embodiment of a receiving element in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 7D illustrates one embodiment of a receiving element in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a receiving element in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a receiving element in
accordance with the present invention coupled with the opening of a
container.
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0037] The present inventive embodiments include a variety of
aspects, which may be combined in different ways. The following
descriptions are provided to list elements and describe some of the
embodiments of the present inventive technology. These elements are
listed with initial embodiments, however it should be understood
that they may be combined in any manner and in any number to create
additional embodiments. The variously described examples should not
be construed to limit the present inventive technology to only the
explicitly described systems, techniques, and applications.
Further, this description should be understood to support and
encompass descriptions and claims of all the various embodiments,
systems, techniques, methods, devices, and applications with any
number of the disclosed elements, with each element alone, and also
with any and all various permutations and combinations of all
elements in this or any subsequent application.
[0038] Turning now to the figures, and particularly FIGS. 1-5
several views of a transportation and/or storage device 10 are
illustrated. In particular, FIG. 1 provides an exploded view of a
transportation and/or storage device 10 comprising an interior
container in the form of a bulb 12, such as a double-walled vessel
or a glass Dewar vessel, for suspension within an outer packaging
structure 14. The outer packaging structure 14 consists of a wall
18, such as a cylindrical wall, or a set of walls, defining an
internal volume 16 inside which the insulating bulb 12 can be
suspended.
[0039] The packaging structure 14 can be a barrel, a cask or a
drum, or another outer container with a curvilinear cross-section.
Naturally, the packaging structure 14 can also take a number of
other shapes, including a plurality of polyhedral configurations.
The packaging structure 14 can comprise a drum with a main vertical
axis X, a cylindrical wall 18, an upper horizontal wall consisting
of a detachable cover 20, and a lower horizontal wall 22 forming
the bottom of the drum. In one embodiment, the main vertical axis X
can constitute an overall axis of symmetry for the components of
transportation and/or storage device 10. The cylindrical wall 18
can define an inner cylindrical face 24 an outer cylindrical face
26.
[0040] The cover 20 can be detachably joined onto the cylindrical
drum and can include an upper horizontal face 28 and a lower
horizontal face 30. The lower horizontal face can be configured to
rest on the cylindrical wall 18 and can be configured to suspend
the bulb 12.
[0041] The double-walled insulating bulb 12 can include a body 32
having an outer wall 34 and an inner wall 36 (seen in FIG. 5),
which can be more or less parallel and separated by a space. The
space between the inner wall 36 and the outer wall 38 can comprise
a vacuum in order to improve heat transfer properties between the
inner wall 36 and the outer wall 38. The inner wall 36 defines an
internal volume 38 of the insulating bulb 12.
[0042] The bulb 12 can include an upper neck 40 defining an upper
opening 42, to permit the filling of an internal volume 38 of the
insulating bulb 12 with cryogenic fluid. The inner wall 36 and the
outer wall 38 can be joined at an upper edge 58 in the neck 40. The
insulating bulb 12 also comprises, vertically opposite the neck 40,
a bottom 44 that is illustrated as largely hemispherical. The
insulating bulb can also be constructed from glass, or from another
material know for Dewar vessels.
[0043] Turning to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 the cover 20 is illustrated in
greater detail. Supporting means 46 are formed on a portion of the
detachable cover 20 for suspending the insulating bulb 12 within
the storage and transportation device 10. The supporting means 46
can include attachment means 48 capable of engaging, directly or
indirectly, with sole inner wall 36 of the bulb 12 to vertically
suspend bulb 12 by its neck 40.
[0044] Thus, in a mounted position, seen in FIG. 5, the bulb 12
hangs freely in the space within the internal volume 16 defined by
the packaging structure 14. In one embodiment the insulating bulb
12 hangs without contact between outer wall 34 of bulb 12 and the
walls of packaging structure 14, particularly the inner wall 24 or
the upper face of bottom 22.
[0045] The supporting means 46 can be directly formed by outer
packaging structure 14 without the need to provide an intermediate
load bearing structure, such as braces. Attachment means 48 can be
integrally formed with the cover 20 and can be manufactured by
casting, blow molding, or by extrusion.
[0046] The cover 20 can exhibit an elastic deformation capacity
determined and defined so as to permit, particularly in case of
shock(s) or fall(s), a limited movement of the bulb 12 in the
packaging internal volume 16, and in such a way that the outer wall
34 of the suspended bulb 12 does not contact the walls 22, 24 of
the packaging structure 14.
[0047] The cover 20 can also be capable of locally deforming
elastically. To this end, the cover 20 can include an annular
elastic deformation area 29 located at the radial periphery. This
elastic deformation area 29 is capable of absorbing all or part of
the mechanical forces resulting from shock(s) received by the
packaging structure 14, particularly the outer wall 26 or bottom
22, in particular in the event of a vertical fall of the device
10.
[0048] This elastic deformation area 29 makes it possible to
prevent, or at least to limit, the transmission to the inner wall
36 of the bulb 12 the mechanical forces attributable to such shocks
onto packaging structure 14 or to a fall of transportation and/or
storage device 10.
[0049] In one embodiment, the cover 20 is made of several parts,
such as a first central part, on which the bulb 12 is suspended,
and a second less rigid peripheral part capable of deforming
elastically and that, radially laid out around the central bearing
part, is capable of ensuring the elastic connection with the drum
of the packaging structure 14. Such a second part can be
constructed from, for example, elastic bellows, ensuring a damping
and/or filtering function to limit the transmission of mechanical
forces between the packaging structure 14 and the bulb 12.
[0050] The cover 20 can be made of a single piece of an elastomer
material exhibiting a certain elastic deformation capacity
sufficient for absorbing the forces in the event of fall or shock.
Regardless of the material, the cover 20 can be constructed to bear
the weight of the bulb 12 once filled with cryogenic fluid.
[0051] Consequently, the elastic deformation capacity of cover 20
is specifically a function of the weight of the bulb 12, of the
empty space remaining around bulb 12 in volume 16, which determines
the possible movement or possible displacement of bulb 12, however,
without as a result permitting bulb 12 to contact structure 14.
[0052] In one embodiment, the cover 20 comprises reinforcement
means, such as ribs 21, capable of locally rigidifying the cover 20
to support the weight of suspended bulb 12 while absorbing the
forces in the event of shock(s) or fall(s). The ribs 21 can be in
the shape of arms 23 extending radially from an outer edge 25
towards the center of the cover 20 and that are, for example,
distributed in a "star," either angularly or regularly.
[0053] Referring now to FIG. 3, the supporting means 46 of the
cover 20 can be seen in greater detail, including a central tubular
element 50 with a circular section. The tubular element 50 can
include an upper block 52 and a lower block 54 that, in the mounted
position, respectively extend outside and above the neck 40 of bulb
12, and at least partly through upper opening 42 of bulb 12.
[0054] The central tubular element 50 defines an orifice 56 leading
into internal volume 38 of the bulb 12, which progressively flares
out downwards from upper edge 58, which constitutes the only area
of connection between the outer 34 and inner 36 walls.
[0055] The attachment means 48 formed on the cover 20 can comprise
a locking mechanism including "L" shaped articulating members or
lugs 48, which can have a first unlocked position and a second
locked position. FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 exlimpify the locking mechanism
in the unlocked position. In FIG. 5 the lugs 48 are pushing into a
locked position by which can engage with another member supported
in the neck 40 of the insulating bulb 12 and at least one of the
walls of the packaging structure 14. Notches 66 can be distributed
circumferentially around the orifice 56 on an upper face 28 of the
cover 20.
[0056] Referring briefly back to FIG. 1, the device 10 can include
an annular sleeve 60 that, in the mounted position, is radially
interposed between the tubular element 50 comprising attachment
means 48 and inner wall 36 of bulb 12 located in the proximity of
flared neck 40 whose shape it follows. The sleeve 60 is illustrated
as an annular sleeve constructed from a plurality of pieces and
constructed within the neck 40 of the bulb and can be especially
designed to absorb shock and vibrations that would otherwise
transfer to the inner wall 36 of the bulb 12.
[0057] Still referring to FIG. 1, the device 10 can further include
a closing stopper 62 capable of obturating the orifice 56 of the
tubular element 50 of the cover 20. The stopper 62 is added onto
the cover 20 by a bayonet-type mount and includes pins 64 around
its circumference intended to engage the notches 66 of the cover
20. The stopper 62 can include an annular skirt 68 (Seen in FIG.
5), which, extending vertically, is centered on the vertical axis X
of the device 10.
[0058] The stopper 62 can have a smaller diameter than the cover 20
and can contribute, in the mounted position, to rigidifying the
center part of the cover 20, where the center part of the cover
comprises the tubular element 50 on which bulb 12 is suspended. The
annular area extending radially between the notches 66 and the edge
of the cover 20 forming said elastically deformable area 29
intended to absorb the forces in case of shocks.
[0059] Again referring back to FIG. 1, the device 10 can include a
control component 70 whose vertical introduction downwards into the
orifice 56 of the tubular element 50, is capable of causing the
movement of attachment means 48 to the locking position. The
attachment means 48 can be characterizes as including lugs or "L"
shaped articulating members which can be pushed outward by the
introduction of the control component 70, as illustrated in FIG. 5,
to ensure a connection between the bulb 12 and the tubular element
50 of the cover 20.
[0060] The lugs 48 are mounted in a movable manner between a
retracted, unlocked position and an extended, locking position and
are, for example, regularly distributed circumferentially on the
inside end of block 54 of tubular element 50.
[0061] Each lug 48 exhibits an "L" section and includes a control
arm 72 that extends horizontally, radially, inside the tubular
element 50, and a locking arm 74 forming a hook that extends
vertically downwards, when attachment means 48 are in the retracted
position as illustrated in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3.
[0062] The pivoting of attachment the lugs 48 from the retracted
position to the locking position is accomplished by the vertical
introduction downwards of the control component 70, through the
upper orifice 56 of the tubular element 50. The control component
70 can include a tubular body 76 having a diameter smaller than
that of the lower block 54 of the tubular element 50 in such a way
that when the control component 70 is introduced axially, the
tubular body 76 engages with the control arms 72 of the lugs 48 and
causes a 45.degree. pivoting of the lugs 48 from the retracted
position to the locking position, seen FIG. 5. The tubular body 76
of the control component 70 then immobilizes the lugs 48 in a
locking position in such a way that control component 70
advantageously constitutes a means of latching lugs 48 in the
locking position.
[0063] The control arms 72 then extend vertically along outer
cylindrical wall 80 of tubular body 76 of control component 70. The
lugs 48 extend obliquely in the locking position, so as to serve as
a support against a face 61 opposite sleeve 60, which is integrated
with inner wall 36 in the proximity of neck 40. In one embodiment,
the sleeve 60 can include a means for receiving the lugs 48 in
their locking position for firmly and securely locking the
attachment means 48 into the bulb. In particular, the lugs 48 can
configured to engage an internal groove 236 (seen in FIG. 6A)
formed in the sleeve 60 for locking the bulb 12 into place relative
to the cover 20 and the control component 70.
[0064] In the mounted position, the sleeve 60 is interposed
radially between the inner wall 36 of the bulb 12 and the outside
cylindrical surface of the lower block 54 of the tubular element 50
penetrating into the bulb 12 in the area of neck 40. In one
embodiment, the sleeve 60 can be constructed from a number of rigid
pieces which are formed together within the neck 40 of the
insulating bulb 12, which is described in more detail in FIG.
6A.
[0065] With reference to FIG. 1, the control component 70 can
include a tubular body 76 with a lower end 78 closed by a bottom.
In one embodiment, the cylindrical wall 80 is equipped with at
least one hole 82 for the passage of cryogenic fluid, such as for
filling and emptying cryogenic fluid.
[0066] The tubular body 76 can include a plurality of holes 82
distributed circumferentially around the cylindrical wall 80 and
vertically over several superimposed rows among which the holes 82
are laid out in a staggered fashion, from one row to another.
[0067] The control component 70 can include, at its upper end, an
upper "L" flange 84 having a horizontal wall 86 that extends
radially to the outside from the upper end of tubular body 76 of
control component 70 and a vertical wall 88.
[0068] In the mounted position (seen in FIG. 5), the upper flange
84 of the control component 70 is supported by means of a wall 86
against a complementary shoulder 90 formed by connecting an upper
block 52 and a lower block 54 of the tubular element 50.
[0069] The control component 70 can extend vertically through the
internal volume 38, but without direct contact between its body 76
or its end 78 and the inner wall 36 of the bulb 12.
[0070] With reference to FIG. 5, the device 10 can comprise a
positioning means 92 capable of maintaining the control component
70 in a center position during transport. The positioning means 92
can particularly ensure a mechanical connection between the tubular
body 76 of the control component 70 and the inner wall 36 of the
bulb 12 in such a way that the forces that are capable of being
transmitted in the event of a shock or fall are then advantageously
distributed over the entire inner wall 36 of the bulb 12 and not
only on the portion of inner wall 36 in the area of the neck 40 and
of the sleeve 60.
[0071] In one embodiment, the positioning means 92 can be a
positioning and absorption means 92 and can be arranged in all or
part of the internal volume 38 of the bulb 12, prior to introducing
the control component 70. The positioning and absorption means and
can, for example, consist of polyurethane foam or phenolic foam, in
flakes or expanded form. The positioning and absorption means 92
can be selected to absorb the cryogenic fluid at the time of the
filling. In this embodiment, the positioning and absorption means
92 can retain the cryogenic fluid and prevent the spreading of the
cryogenic fluid outside the bulb 12 after absorption.
[0072] In one embodiment, the device 10 can include a closing
component 94 which can be vertically introduced into the tubular
body 76 of the control component 70. The closing component 94 can
be configured obturate the holes 82 for limiting the circulation of
cryogenic fluid through the control component 70 and limiting
possible contact with the transported and/or stored product.
[0073] The closing component 94 can further include a carrier tube
for the transported and/or stored product. In one embodiment, the
product is carried by a conventional straw introduced inside the
closing component 94. The closing component 94 can include a
tubular body 96 and a flange 98 for mating with the flange 84 of
the control component 70. The flange 98 of the closing component 94
can primarily consists of a largely horizontal wall 100. In one
embodiment, the horizontal wall is equipped with an outer radial
end with an annular locking ring 102.
[0074] The annular locking ring 102 of the flange 98 is capable of
engaging with at least one locking detent 104 formed from the
internal vertical face of vertical wall 88 of flange 84 of control
component 70, so as to irreversibly lock entire closing component
94 and control component 70, in order to guarantee the integrity of
the single-use device, while precluding any later reuse.
[0075] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B,
the control component 70 can include a notched vertical face
comprising at least one upper pad 106 and one lower pad 108 that
respectively define a first notch 110 located between the upper and
lower pads and a second notch that, located below the inside pad
108, corresponds to said notch 104.
[0076] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the closing component 94 is
capable of occupying a first, so-called assembly, position, in
which locking ring 102 of closing component 94 is introduced into
first notch 110 of flange 84 of control component 70. As
illustrated in FIG. 4B, the closing component 94 is still capable
of occupying a second, so-called locking, position, in which ring
102 is introduced into second, so-called locking, detent 104 of
control component 70.
[0077] In one embodiment, the closing component 94 comprises holes
112 that, in assembly position, at least partly coincide with
passage holes 82 of control component 70 intended to allow internal
volume 38 of bulb 12 to be filled with cryogenic fluid through
control component 70. In the locking position, the holes 82 of the
control component 70 are at least partly obturated by the body 96
of the closing component 94 so as to prevent any later addition of
cryogenic fluid to guarantee the end user the integrity of the
device and its single-use utilization.
[0078] The closing component 94 and the control component 70 can
include ventilation means 114 which are intended, in the locking
position, to enable the evacuation of the gases progressively
released by the cryogenic fluid during transport and/or storage.
The ventilation means 114 through the closing component 94 and the
control component 70 consist of at least one ventilation orifice
114 that is formed by of at least one of holes 82, 112 of each
component 70 and 94 located in the upper part of each.
[0079] The upper ventilation orifices 114 permit the evacuation of
gases released by the cryogenic fluid that thus escape from
internal volume 38 to the outside while passing through the opening
42 of the neck 40 of the bulb 12. The upper ventilation orifices
114 of the control component 70 and the closing component 94 do not
coincide axially when the assembly is in the assembled position
illustrated in FIG. 4A, but when the control component 70 and the
closing component 94 do coincide axially when in the locked
position illustrated in FIG. 4B.
[0080] The upper tubular part of closing component 94 can be
capable of receiving an internal stopper 116, which allows the
ventilation of the bulb 12 by permitting the gases produced by the
cryogenic fluid to be evacuated to the outside. The stopper 116 can
also be capable of limiting the overflow of cryogenic fluid outside
bulb 12 in the event that an excessive amount was to be introduced,
voluntarily or not, in relation to the maximum absorption capacity
of the absorption means 92. The stopper 116 can make it possible to
limit the thermal exchanges between the internal volume 38 of the
bulb 12 and the outside and to prevent the formation of
condensation in the proximity of the neck 40, due to the
temperature differences between the inside and the outside of the
bulb 12.
[0081] In one embodiment, the transportation and/or storage device
10 can be placed in a final mounted position illustrated in FIG. 5
with by the following steps. The absorbing and positioning means 92
can be introduced inside the volume 38 of the bulb 12 and a sleeve
60 can be mounted inside the neck 40. As will be described in
greater detail later, the sleeve 60 can be constructed within the
neck 40 of the bulb 12.
[0082] The sleeve 60 can be a rigid body formed in the neck 40 of
the bulb 12 from a collection of complimentary pieces. The sleeve
60 can be too large to fit into the opening 42 in the bulb 12 in
its constructed configuration, whereas the individual pieces
forming the rigid sleeve can easily pass into the opening 42. This
embodiment can serve to secure the bulb 12 particularly well to the
cover 20, while minimizing the transfer of energy, such as shocks
or impacts to the bulb 12.
[0083] The device 10 can be pre-mounted by introducing the tubular
element 50 of the cover 20 into the upper opening 42 of the bulb 12
and by proceeding with the locking. Once the tubular element 50 is
introduced, lugs 48 can be extended inside bulb 12 in the retracted
position. The vertical introduction of control component 70 through
the passage orifice 56 of cover 20 that causes lugs 48 to pivot to
their locking position, where by the lugs will engage the receiving
sleeve 60 and, in particular, the internal groove 236 of the sleeve
60. Once the control component 70 is introduced, the cover 20 and
the bulb 12 are then connected to one another through lugs 48 that
are maintained in a locked position by control component 70.
[0084] In one embodiment, the control component 70 is entirely
introduced into the bulb 12, such as, until the flange 84 of the
control component 70 is received in the upper block 52 of the
tubular element 50 and the wall 86 engages with the shoulder
90.
[0085] The closing component 94 can then be mounted in control
component 70 after the locking of securing means 48. In one
embodiment, the closing component 94 can be assembled with the
control component 70 in advance, in order to be mounted
simultaneously with the latter in a manner similar to that which
has just been described. In another embodiment, the closeting
component 94 can be omitted and products can be stored directly
into the control component 70.
[0086] The cover 20 can then be integrally mounted with the
cylindrical wall 18 which can include an upper edge 118 intended to
engage with a complementary edge 120 of the cover 20. In one
embodiment, the upper edge 118 of the cylindrical wall 18 forms a
male part intended to be tight-fixed into a complementary annular
groove comprising edge 120 of cover 20. The engagement between the
edges 118, 120 of the cylindrical wall 18 and of the cover 20 forms
the outer packaging structure 14. Once the assembly of the cover 20
with the cylindrical wall 18 of outer packaging structure 14 is
completed, the bulb 12 can be suspended and extends vertically into
internal volume 16.
[0087] The internal volume 38 of the bulb 12 is then filled,
through the top, by pouring a cryogenic fluid through an upper
opening defined by the flange 98 of closing component 94. The
cryogenic fluid introduced in a certain quantity can be completely
absorbed by absorption means 92 provided for such purpose.
[0088] Once the filling is completed, the products to be
transported and/or stored are, for example, introduced directly
into the volume defined by the closing component 94, which then
constitutes a carrier tube. In an alternative embodiment, the
products can be carried by straws within a goblet that is
vertically introduced from top to bottom inside the closing
component 94. Similarly, such a goblet can be introduced directly
into the control component 70 and the closing component 94 can be
omitted.
[0089] The skirt 68 of the stopper 62 constitutes an actuation part
capable of engaging with the horizontal wall 100 of the flange 98
of the closing component 94 in order to cause its displacement from
the assembly position to the locking position.
[0090] When the stopper 62 is vertically introduced downwards for
the purpose of closing the device 10, the lower end of skirt 68
then exercises a closing force F (FIG. 4B) on the flange 98 of the
control component 94 that causes its descent into control component
70 and the passage of the locking ring 102 from the first detent
110 to the second detent 104. The stopper 62 can be simultaneously,
or successively, driven in rotation by means of the handle
comprising its upper face to complete the closing following the
bayonet-type mounting.
[0091] Each notch 66 can comprise a staged path (not depicted) in
which each pin 64 is engaged when the stopper 62 is rotated, which
automatically causes a descending movement of the skirt 68 when
pins the 64 of the stopper 62 are introduced into the complementary
notches 66 of support the cover 20 of the packaging structure
14.
[0092] The transportation and/or storage device 10 is thus capable
of being transported while the cover 20 on top is being maintained
in the vertical position or capable of permitting the storage of
the product for a period determined by the amount of cryogenic
fluid.
[0093] According to one embodiment, the transportation device 10
can include only the control component 70, without a closing
component 94. The control component 70 can then directly constitute
a carrier tube within which the products to be transported or
stored, or within which the support pipe containing the products
are lodged.
[0094] The upper part of the tubular body 76 of the control
component 70 is capable of receiving the stopper 116, which permits
the evacuation of the gases produced by the cryogenic fluid outside
the bulb 12, to limit the thermal exchanges and also to limit the
discharge of cryogenic fluid outside the bulb 12.
[0095] The outer wall 34 can be free from any contact and the
mechanical forces transmitted in the case of shock(s) or fall(s)
are only exerted on the inner wall 36 alone. In fact, the
mechanical forces caused by shocks or a fall are, if necessary,
transmitted to the inner wall 36 of the bulb 12, through the
attachment means 48, which engages, directly or through the
intervention of the sleeve 60, with said inner wall 36.
[0096] Because of the distribution of the forces over the entire
inner wall 36, the risk of rupturing the neck 40 in the proximity
of the connection area 58 between the outer 34 and the inner 36
walls of the double-walled glass insulating bulb 12 in particular
is greatly reduced.
[0097] Turning now to figures FIGS. 6A-6C, a sleeve 60 or receiving
element 210 is shown for coupling on the interior of a interior
container or bulb 12 (Seen in FIG. 9). In particular the receiving
element is coupled to an opening 42 and neck 40 in the bulb 12
(Seen in FIG. 9). The receiving element 210 comprises a body 216
constructed from a plurality of pieces 240a, b, c, d, e, f. The
body 216 can have a generally annular cross section formed by a
first end 218, a second end 220, and a passage 226 there between
forming an internal cavity in the body 216 and an interior surface
230. The body 216 is depicted having a generally annular
cross-section, but other shapes are envisioned for coupling with
various containers based on the interior surface of the interior
container.
[0098] The body 216 can be seen having an upper lip 232 at the
first end 218 connected to a neck 242 which expands into a base
231. The upper lip 232 can be configured for resting on the top
surface of an interior container opening, and the neck 242 can be
configured for fitting into the neck of the interior container
opening. The base 231 is formed such that an external surface 222
contacts the interior surface of the interior container when the
body 216 is configured within the interior container 210.
[0099] An internal groove 236 can be formed on the interior surface
of the body 216 for the purpose of receiving attachment means 48
which can be in the form of lugs 48. The base 231 and its external
surface 222 provide means for coupling the body 216 with the
interior container, and the internal groove 236 provides for
coupling the receiving element to a part external to the interior
container for suspending the interior container. In one embodiment,
the internal groove 236 can receive a locking element. The locking
element can comprise any mechanism capable of passing into the
passage of the body with at least a portion that expands or is
actuated to expand into the internal groove 36, such that the
locking element is secured to the receiving element 210.
[0100] Referring now to only FIG. 6A, a piece 240a can be seen with
two parallel sides 250a and 250b, which correspond to the
neighboring edges 252a and 252b respectively. In the embodiment
depicted, piece 240d is also illustrated with parallel sides,
although it should be appreciated embodiments are envisioned with
only one pieces having parallel sides and with multiple pieces
having parallel sides.
[0101] FIG. 7A illustrates the top view of one embodiment of the
present invention having four pieces. In this embodiment piece 300
has parallel edges formed at sides 308a and 308b of neighboring
pieces 306 and 302 respectively. Pieces 302 and 306 abut piece 304
at edges 310a and 310b respectively. In this embodiment each of the
four pieces has a different design.
[0102] FIG. 7B illustrates a five piece design for the construction
of a body 210 in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. Piece 320 has two parallel sides which abut neighboring
pieces 328 and 322 at edges 330a and 330b, respectively. Pieces 324
and 326 are each defined with radial cuts 332a, 332b, and 332c and
can be the same design giving this arrangement a minimum of four
different piece designs.
[0103] FIG. 7C illustrates a top view of the six piece design seen
in FIG. 6A-C. Parallel sides 352a and 352b define the sides of a
piece 340 which can side into position within a bottle. Piece 346
can be identical to piece 140 with parallel sides 152c and 152d.
Piece 146 can be dimensioned differently from 340, but may be
easier to manufacture as an identical piece. Similarly, pieces 342
and 348 each adjoin one of the parallel edges 352b and 352d,
respectively, and radial cuts 354a and 354b respectively. Pieces
342 and 348 can also be dimensioned identically or can be
dimensioned slightly different, so they are not interchangeable.
Finally, pieces 344 and 350 can adjoin parallel edges 352c and 352d
respectively and radial edges 354a and 354b, respectively. Pieces
344 and 350 can also be identical, or dimensioned slightly
differently providing a minimum of three different pieces for the
six piece configuration.
[0104] FIG. 7D illustrates a top view of an embodiment with eight
pieces and a minimum of four different piece designs. Pieces 360
and 370 can be seen with parallel edges 378a, b and 378c, d
respectively. Each of the remaining pieces 362, 364, 366, 372, 374
and 376 are illustrated divided by the parallel edges and radial
edges 380a, b, c, and d.
[0105] FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of the
present invention. Piece 400 is illustrated with edges 408a and
408b which converge in the radially distal direction. Piece 400 can
still slide into a final place within the interior container in the
same way a last piece having parallel sides. This piece has been
illustrated in a four piece arrangement abutting pieces 402 and
406, which are themselves separated by piece 404 with edges 410a,
and 410b. It should be appreciated that the piece with converging
sides can also be used in each of the embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 7B-D and is merely illustrated in the four piece
configuration for the sake of simplicity.
[0106] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross section of a bulb 12 showing the
body 216 formed from a plurality of pieces and held in the opening
40 of the bulb 12. This illustrated interior container has a
generally circular cross section thereby fitting with a body having
a generally annular cross section.
[0107] It should be appreciated; the basic concepts described
herein can be embodied in a number of ways. The present invention
involves numerous and varied embodiments of bodies formed from a
plurality of pieces for forming on the interior of a container and
receiving an external element.
[0108] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic
concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of
ways. The invention involves numerous and varied embodiments of
shipping container and methods of making and using the shipping
container including, but not limited to, the best mode of the
invention.
[0109] As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the
invention disclosed by the description or shown in the figures or
tables accompanying this application are not intended to be
limiting, but rather exemplary of the numerous and varied
embodiments generically encompassed by the invention or equivalents
encompassed with respect to any particular element thereof In
addition, the specific description of a single embodiment or
element of the invention may not explicitly describe all
embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives are implicitly
disclosed by the description and figures.
[0110] It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or
each step of a method may be described by an apparatus term or
method term. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make
explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is
entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all
steps of a method may be disclosed as an action, a means for taking
that action, or as an element which causes that action. Similarly,
each element of an apparatus may be disclosed as the physical
element or the action which that physical element facilitates. As
but one example, the disclosure of "container" should be understood
to encompass disclosure of the act of "containing"--whether
explicitly discussed or not--and, conversely, were there
effectively disclosure of the act of "containing", such a
disclosure should be understood to encompass disclosure of a
"container" and even a "means for containing." Such alternative
terms for each element or step are to be understood to be
explicitly included in the description.
[0111] In addition, as to each term used it should be understood
that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent
with such interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be
understood to be included in the description for each term as
contained in the Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary,
second edition, each definition hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0112] Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the
term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity; for
example, "a container" refers to one or more of the containers. As
such, the terms "a" or "an", "one or more" and "at least one" can
be used interchangeably herein.
[0113] All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the
term "about", whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes
of the present invention, ranges may be expressed as from "about"
one particular value to "about" another particular value. When such
a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one
particular value to the other particular value. The recitation of
numerical ranges by endpoints includes all the numeric values
subsumed within that range. A numerical range of one to five
includes for example the numeric values 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80,
4, 5, and so forth. It will be further understood that the
endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to
the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. When a
value is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent
"about," it will be understood that the particular value forms
another embodiment.
[0114] Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at
least: i) each of the array of shipping containers herein disclosed
and described, ii) the related methods disclosed and described,
iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of
these devices and methods, iv) those alternative embodiments which
accomplish each of the functions shown, disclosed, or described, v)
those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the
functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is
disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step
shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applications
enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) the
resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix)
methods and apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and
with reference to any of the accompanying examples, x) the various
combinations and permutations of each of the previous elements
disclosed.
[0115] The background section of this patent application provides a
statement of the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains.
This section may also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of
certain United States patents, patent applications, publications,
or subject matter of the claimed invention useful in relating
information, problems, or concerns about the state of technology to
which the invention is drawn toward. It is not intended that any
United States patent, patent application, publication, statement or
other information cited or incorporated herein be interpreted,
construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art with respect to the
invention.
[0116] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are
hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the
invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use
all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as
additional description to support any of or all of the claims or
any element or component thereof, and the applicant further
expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the
incorporated content of such claims or any element or component
thereof from the description into the claims or vice versa as
necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by
this application or by any subsequent application or continuation,
division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain
any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with
the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty,
and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the
entire pendency of this application including any subsequent
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof
or any reissue or extension thereon.
[0117] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are
further intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited
number of the preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to
be construed as the broadest embodiment of the invention or a
complete listing of embodiments of the invention that may be
claimed. The applicant does not waive any right to develop further
claims based upon the description set forth above as a part of any
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part, or similar
application.
* * * * *