Method, device and system for filling pharmaceutical containers

Abstract

The invention involves apparatus and method for confirming the presence / absence of closures (120) in a closure nest (100) inside an aseptic chamber (20). The apparatus comprises a topographical profiler (37, 41) disposed to monitor the closure nests. Vertical displacements in topographical maps obtained by the profiler are compared with information from a database about the nest and closure combinations. Vertical displacements falling outside predetermined upper and lower bounds are deemed absences of closures. The topographical profiler may be disposed outside the aseptic chamber. The systemmay be automated via a controller (51) and software. In some embodiments the nests are disposed in the monitored area by robotic articulated arms (22). In other embodiments the closure nests are movedby vacuum pickup systems (86). The system / method may also be employed to assess the suitability of a closure nest for closing in an aseptic chamber containers in a container nest (70).

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to the medical field exemplified by IPC classification A61, and in particular to devices, systems, and methods for packing and sealing pharmaceutical containers. In particular, the present invention relates to devices, systems, and methods for filling and sealing pharmaceutical containers in controlled environment chambers. Background technique [0002] In essence, the artificial production of sterile drugs can be problematic. Humans can be a major source of microbial contamination. Also, with increased potency, some drugs may be harmful during occupational exposure. For at least these reasons, machinery is attractive in formulations to limit human exposure. Isolator technology provides a strong barrier between process and humans and can also be used in formulations to limit human exposure. [0003] Traditionally, equipment for filling, retaining, and capping pharmaceutical containers has been designed to handle indivi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The packing density of 60-120 containers occupying an area of ​​8"x9" in the nest does not allow the matching lid nest design shown in US 2012 / 0248057 A1 because the retaining features take up too much space

[0014] In conclusion, although the use of nested containers is well established in the industry, the question of how to manage the controlled environment while ensuring that the equipment used in the process can be cleaned to a degree acceptable to the pharmaceutical industry, an industry with exceptionally strict regulations There are still challenges for such containers

Images