Device for opening containers and method therefor

Abstract

Devices and methods for removing caps from bottles and vials are described herein. The device may include a locking mechanism, teeth for crimping a cap, particularly a metal cap, and a balancing tip that balances the force applied when the locking mechanism is closed. The method may include placing the device on a cap attached to the bottle, pushing down such that the teeth of the device surround the cap, locking the locking mechanism such that the teeth press into the cap, and removing the device from the bottle or vial along with the cap.

Description

Cross-references

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 531,883, filed August 10, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Various liquids can be stored and transported when contained in containers such as medicine bottles or vials and wine bottles. To prevent spills, these containers are tightly sealed before, during, and after transport. These containers are tightly sealed using caps (made of metal, plastic, rubber, and other materials) that make them difficult to open. More than 194 billion plastic pill vials, more than 20 billion glass vials with metal and rubber caps, and more than 30 billion wine bottles are transported annually.

[0003] Various medications (e.g., liquid medications) can be stored and transported when contained in a container (e.g., a vial), which can be sealed with a stopper (e.g., a rubber stopper) and further sealed around at least a portion of the rubber stopper and another portion of the vial (e.g., the glass neck portion of the vial) with a rigid outer shell (e.g., a metal shell). Propofol is an example of such liquid medications. Propofol can be a frequently transferred medication in hospitals, ASCs, and operating rooms. Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic used for surgical sedation, during monitoring anesthetic care, or as an induction agent for general anesthesia. It can be administered as a bolus or infusion, or some combination of both. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This document provides an apparatus for opening a receiver. The apparatus may include a central portion comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions. The apparatus may include at least one locking mechanism coupled to the central portion. The locking mechanism may be configured to lock the two or more inwardly facing protrusions around a cap of the receiver such that the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are pressed into the cap. The apparatus may include an end head comprising a handle. The end head may be coupled to the central portion and may be positioned relative to the at least one locking mechanism.

[0005] In some embodiments, the device includes an unlocked state and a locked state. In some embodiments, the circumference of the central portion in the locked state is smaller than the circumference in the unlocked state. In some embodiments, at least one locking mechanism includes at least one inwardly facing protrusion. In some embodiments, at least one locking mechanism includes at least two inwardly facing protrusions. In some embodiments, at least one locking mechanism has a radius of curvature. In some embodiments, at least one locking mechanism includes an unfolding snap ring or lever lock. In some embodiments, at least one locking mechanism includes a movable hinge.

[0006] In some embodiments, the central portion includes an engaging member. In some embodiments, the engaging member is designed to be circular or elliptical in shape. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the engaging member substantially matches the radius of curvature of at least one locking mechanism. In some embodiments, two or more inwardly facing protrusions are positioned in the engaging member. In some embodiments, when the device is in the locked state, at least one locking mechanism is positioned in the engaging member. In some embodiments, the device further includes a locking recess in the engaging member. In some embodiments, when the device is in the locked state, at least one locking mechanism is positioned in the locking recess. In some embodiments, the engaging member includes at least one circumference comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions. In some embodiments, the engaging member includes at least three circumferences comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions. In some embodiments, each of the at least three circumferences has a different diameter. In some embodiments, each of the at least three circumferences is configured to accommodate a receiver of a different size. In some embodiments, the two or more inward-facing protrusions comprise two or more inward-facing protrusions on each of at least three circumferences, wherein an increase in diameter across each of the at least three circumferences corresponds to an increase in width of the two or more inward-facing protrusions on each of the at least three circumferences. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least three circumferences are concentric. In some embodiments, the at least three circumferences are not concentric.

[0007] In some cases, the end cap includes a tension release portion. In some cases, the open space in the tension release portion increases in diameter in response to locking by at least one locking mechanism. In some cases, two or more inwardly facing protrusions comprise four to eighteen inwardly facing protrusions. In some cases, the device includes a unibody structure. In some cases, the device further includes a scannable or programmed code. In some cases, the end cap includes a lever. In some cases, at least one locking mechanism is ribbed. In some cases, the device comprises injection-molded polypropylene.

[0008] This document describes a method for disposing of surplus medication or pharmaceuticals. The method may include assembling a cap of a receiver containing the surplus medication or pharmaceuticals into the device described herein. The method may include locking the device onto the cap in a locked state via at least one locking mechanism. The method may include applying a force to the cap such that two or more inwardly facing protrusions are pressed into the cap. The method may include lifting a receiver opener away from the receiver while maintaining the locked state. The method may include disposing of the surplus medication or pharmaceuticals.

[0009] In some cases, locking the device includes reducing the circumference of the central portion. In some cases, locking includes inserting at least one locking mechanism into the central portion. In some cases, locking includes locking at least one inwardly facing protrusion on at least one locking mechanism into the central portion. In some cases, the method further includes a locking recess in the central portion. In some cases, locking includes locking at least one inwardly facing protrusion on at least one locking mechanism into the locking recess. In some cases, locking includes releasing the tension applied by locking the device. In some cases, releasing the tension includes increasing the diameter of the open space of the device opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking by at least one locking mechanism.

[0010] In some cases, the applied force includes radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward. In some cases, the force is i) applied manually by the user, ii) by at least one locking mechanism, or iii) applied radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward by both i) and ii).

[0011] In some cases, disposal includes neutralizing the remaining drug or medicine. In some cases, disposal includes scanning a scannable code on i) the device, ii) the remaining drug or medicine, or iii) both, to track the disposal of the remaining drug or medicine.

[0012] This document provides a system that includes the apparatus described herein. The system may include a receiver. In some embodiments, the receiver includes a bottle, vial, jar, or wide-mouth jar. In some embodiments, the receiver contains a drug or pharmaceutical product. In some embodiments, the receiver contains food or beverage. In some embodiments, the receiver contains liquid, pill, powder, capsule, tablet, or any combination thereof.

[0013] This article describes a method for opening an acceptor. The method may include... The method may include fitting a cap of a receiver into a receiver opener. In some embodiments, the receiver opener includes two or more inwardly facing protrusions and at least one locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are located in a central portion of the receiver opener. In some embodiments, at least one locking mechanism is coupled to the central portion. The method may include locking the receiver opener to the cap via the at least one locking mechanism from an unlocked state to a locked state. The method may include pressing the cap in place with the two or more inwardly facing protrusions by applying force to the cap via the locking mechanism. The method may include lifting the receiver opener away from the receiver while maintaining the locked state.

[0014] In some embodiments, the locking receiver opener includes a circumference that decreases in the size of its central portion. In some embodiments, the method further includes an engaging member. In some embodiments, locking includes inserting at least one locking mechanism into the engaging member. In some embodiments, locking includes locking at least one inwardly facing protrusion on at least one locking mechanism into the engaging member. In some embodiments, the method further includes a locking recess in the engaging member. In some embodiments, locking includes locking at least one inwardly facing protrusion on at least one locking mechanism into the engaging member. In some embodiments, the engaging member includes at least three circumferences, each including two or more inwardly facing protrusions. In some embodiments, each of the at least three circumferences has a different diameter. In some embodiments, fitting the cap includes fitting the cap into the circumference of the receiver opener that is dimensionally closest to the at least three circumferences. In some embodiments, locking includes releasing tension applied by locking the receiver opener. In some embodiments, releasing tension includes increasing the diameter of the opening space of the receiver opener opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking by at least one locking mechanism. In some embodiments, locking is irreversible. In some embodiments, locking is reversible.

[0015] In some embodiments, the applied force includes a radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward force. In some embodiments, the force is i) applied manually by the user, ii) by at least one locking mechanism, or iii) applied radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward by both i) and ii).

[0016] This article describes a system for disposing of surplus drugs or pharmaceuticals. The system may include a scanner.

[0017] The system may include a cap remover device for opening a receiver. The cap remover device may include a central portion comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions. The cap remover device may include at least one locking mechanism coupled to the central portion. In some cases, the locking mechanism is configured to lock the two or more inwardly facing protrusions around the cap of the receiver such that the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are pressed into the cap. The cap remover device may include an end head comprising a handle. In some cases, the end head is coupled to the central portion and positioned relative to at least one locking mechanism. The system may include a waste disposal receiver.

[0018] In some cases, the waste disposal receiver includes a medical management system. In some cases, the cap remover device includes a scannable code. In some cases, the scanner is configured to scan the scannable code. In some cases, the waste disposal receiver is configured to compare the scannable code to be scanned with a scannable code on the receiver.

[0019] Other aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, in which only illustrative embodiments of the disclosure are shown and described. As will be appreciated, other different embodiments of the disclosure are possible, and certain details thereof can be modified in various obvious ways, all without departing from the disclosure. Therefore, the drawings and description are to be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive. Incorporation

[0020] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the extent that each individual publication, patent or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The novel features of this disclosure are specifically set forth in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of this disclosure will be obtained by referring to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments in which the principles of this disclosure are utilized, along with the accompanying drawings (also referred to herein as “illustrations” and “figures”), wherein: Figure 1A-1E Perspective views (1A, 1D, 1E), bottom views (1B), and enlarged bottom views (1C) of an example cap remover device according to the example embodiments described herein are depicted.

[0022] Figure 2A-2B A top view (2A), a bottom view (2B), and a magnified bottom view (2C) of an example cap remover device according to an example embodiment described herein are depicted.

[0023] Figures 3A-3E A perspective top view (3A), a perspective bottom view (3B), a cross-sectional side view (3C-3D), and a cross-sectional perspective view (3E) of an example cap remover device according to an example embodiment described herein are depicted.

[0024] Figures 4A-4B A bottom view depicts the open (4A) and closed (4B) configurations of an example cap remover device with a small cap according to the exemplary embodiment described herein.

[0025] Figures 5A-5B A bottom view depicts the open (5A) and closed (5B) configurations of an example cap remover device with a medium cap according to the exemplary embodiment described herein.

[0026] Figures 6A-6B A bottom view depicts the open (6A) and closed (6B) configurations of an example cap remover device with a large cap according to the exemplary embodiment described herein.

[0027] Figures 7A-7C A bottom perspective view depicts the closed configuration of an example cap remover device for small (7A), medium (7B), and large (7C) caps and bottles according to the example embodiments described herein.

[0028] Figure 7D The illustration depicts a hat being successfully removed using the apparatus and method according to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0029] Figures 8A-8C A top perspective view depicts the open configuration of an example cap remover device on small (8A), medium (8B), and large (8C) caps and bottles according to the example embodiments described herein.

[0030] Figures 9A-9F A perspective view depicts an example method for removing a cap using an example cap remover device according to an example implementation described herein.

[0031] Figures 10A-10C A bottom view depicts the closed configuration of an example cap remover device on small (10A), medium (10B), and large (10C) caps according to the example embodiments described herein.

[0032] Figure 11-12 The concept of the example cap remover device described in this article is illustrated.

[0033] Figures 13A-13B A perspective view (13A) and a top view (13B) of an example cap remover device according to an example embodiment described herein are depicted.

[0034] Figures 14A-14C A perspective view (14A) and a top view (14B-14C) of an alternative example cap remover device according to the example embodiments described herein are depicted.

[0035] Figures 15A-15D Perspective views (15A-15B) and exploded perspective views of a sub-component (15C-15D) of another alternative example cap remover device according to the exemplary embodiment described herein are depicted.

[0036] Figures 16A-16B An example implementation according to the present document is described. Figures 15A-15D Side view of the device in its open (16A) and closed (16B) configurations.

[0037] Figures 17A-17B An example implementation according to the present document is described. Figures 14A-14C Top view (17A) and perspective view (17B) of the first version of the prototype.

[0038] Figures 18A-18CAn example implementation according to the present document is described. Figures 14A-14C A perspective view of the second version of the prototype.

[0039] Figures 19A-19B An example implementation according to the present document is described. Figures 14A-14C The third version of the prototype's perspective.

[0040] Figure 20 A perspective side view of a prototype example cap remover device according to the example implementation described herein is depicted.

[0041] Figures 21A-21D A perspective view (21A, 21C-21D) and a cross-sectional side view (21B) of a second prototype example cap remover device according to the exemplary embodiments described herein are depicted.

[0042] Figure 22 An extended perspective view of an example cap remover device according to an example implementation described herein is depicted.

[0043] Figure 23A An example cap remover device situated on a cap, according to an exemplary embodiment described herein, is depicted.

[0044] Figure 23B The illustration depicts cap distortion when the example cap remover device is mispositioned on a cap, according to the example implementation described herein.

[0045] Figure 24 A top view depicting a variation of the prototype based on the example implementation described herein.

[0046] Figure 25A A top view of an example cap remover device according to an embodiment described herein is depicted.

[0047] Figure 25B-25D A strength load test of an example cap remover device according to an example implementation described herein is depicted.

[0048] Figure 26-28 Experimental data depicting the cap removal success rate according to the example implementation described herein are presented. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Currently, there are no suitable systems or devices that allow healthcare practitioners to safely and / or easily remove the round metal casing and / or rubber stopper from vials containing liquid medications. This disclosure provides a simple, inexpensive, disposable, and easily stored method for safely and easily removing the cap from a vial. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein are applicable to vials and bottles of various sizes. Furthermore, there are currently no suitable in-place measurement systems for calculating residual medications (e.g., propofol) in the operating room (OR) after surgery or for visualizing responsibility for empty medication containers in the OR. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein can also assist in these calculations by limiting the user's ability to recap the residue, among other things.

[0050] Therefore, aspects of this disclosure provide apparatus, systems, and methods for conveniently opening existing pharmaceutical containers (e.g., propofol bottles) and / or measuring their residual content (e.g., waste content). These apparatus, systems, and methods can be used with pharmaceutical containers for liquids, pills, powders, capsules, tablets, sacs, or other pharmaceuticals that can be placed in bottles and / or vials. Liquids, pills, powders, capsules, sacs, or tablets can be pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical. In addition to bottles and vials, the apparatus described herein can be used to remove caps from any other container containing contents that has a lid, cover, or cap.

[0051] In some embodiments, the apparatus, systems, and methods provided herein can be used to open (e.g., conveniently open) a medication container (e.g., an existing propofol bottle) and optionally measure its remaining contents (e.g., waste). In some cases, such an apparatus (or system) may be referred to as a "pharmacy opener" because of its function in opening a medication container (e.g., in removing the cover (e.g., a metal cap) of the medication container). In some cases, the apparatus (or system) may be referred to as a "pharmacy opener measurement system" or "MOMS" because of its function in opening a medication container and measuring at least a portion of the medication (e.g., remaining waste) from the medication container. In some cases, the apparatus (or system) may be referred to as a "waste discharge device" (or system) because of its function in opening a medication container and measuring at least a portion of the medication (e.g., remaining waste) from the medication container. In some cases, the apparatus (or system) may be referred to as "ExitSafe".

[0052] In some embodiments, the drug in the drug container provided herein may be a solid drug, a semi-solid drug, a liquid drug, a powder drug, a gel drug, etc. Non-limiting examples of liquid drugs may include propofol (e.g., dapoxetine) and other chemotherapy drugs.

[0053] In some embodiments, the apparatus (or system) provided herein may include a unit coupled to a drug container (e.g., the bottleneck or cap portion of the drug container) to assist in opening the drug container. In some embodiments, the apparatus (or system) may include an additional unit for removing a cover (e.g., a metal cap) from the drug container. In some embodiments, the apparatus (or system) may be designed to remove a circular metal casing and / or a rubber stopper.

[0054] In some embodiments, the apparatus (or system) may include an additional unit for measuring the amount of drug in the drug container and / or measuring the amount of drug removed from the drug container (e.g., the remaining drug removed from the drug container). In some cases, the unit and the additional unit may be coupled to each other. Alternatively, the unit and the additional unit may be functionally coupled to each other, but not physically coupled.

[0055] The device (or system) can be used for rapid cap removal, which helps to expedite the removal of remaining medication from vials and / or the measurement of remaining medication or liquid, whether within or outside the pharmaceutical industry. In some cases, the cap of the remaining medication can be removed first, followed by measurement. In some cases, the measurement can be performed by a medication management system. In some cases, the medication management system can be physically or operatively coupled to the device described herein for rapid cap removal.

[0056] The single device (e.g., cap remover) provided herein can be configured to remove drug container caps of a specific size. The single device (e.g., cap remover) provided herein can be configured to remove drug caps of various sizes (e.g., from bottlenecks of various sizes). Therefore, different devices can be designed and provided, each specifically designed for drug container caps / bottlenecks of a particular size.

[0057] The ergonomic design of a device (or system) can accommodate a variety of different variables. For example, variables may include hand strength, hand size, dexterity, or other variables.

[0058] Any of the devices (or systems) provided herein may be made of a variety of materials, such as aluminum, soft metals, copper, rubber, cork, glass, etc., or any combination thereof. The devices (or systems) may have a variety of shapes and sizes (including circular, square, elliptical, rectangular, etc., or any combination thereof).

[0059] In some cases, the device (or system) can lock onto bottlenecks of various sizes by applying pressure from the end user. The pressure can be downward, lateral, upward, or any combination thereof. Once locked, a further pressure can be applied to pull off the cap using a unique design. The release of the metal and / or rubber stopper can be a sequential or non-sequential action. The unique design of the “locking” system can resemble approximately three rows of teeth, notches, serrations, claws, hooks, fasteners, clamps, clasps, gripping structures, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0060] In some cases, a possible unique identifier may exist, which corresponds to a specific discard event indicated on that particular opener before opening. Users can also create additional codes generated after opening.

[0061] In some cases, thin flanges, edges, lips, or rims made of soft plastic or any other material may be self-attached to the cup, which may or may not have calibration measurements. These calibration measurements may be printed or digitally attached.

[0062] The device (or system) may or may not be attached to a robotic gripper equipped with advanced sensors and machine rhythm learning algorithms. For example, a robotic gripper can assist users with weak gripping strength or hand injuries in opening bottles upon user command.

[0063] The device (or system) can work in conjunction with machine learning, deep learning, and / or artificial intelligence algorithms and / or methods to identify the type of bottle, the type of cap, the position of the cap, and the correct amount of force to open it. For example, serialized barcodes or visual codes can be used to verify and / or identify the device, the medicine container, the medical practitioner using the device, and / or the patient (who is the recipient of the medication in the medicine container).

[0064] The device (or system) may include a latch that is locked in place by an end user. This locking mechanism may be reversible or irreversible.

[0065] In some embodiments, the device provided herein may be for single use or for multiple use. In some cases, the device provided herein may be a single-use device. Single use can benefit the safety of the vial or vial and / or its contents. It can also help, for example, track waste transactions using a healthcare management system. It can also help track the operator of the device during waste transactions by ensuring that unauthorized users cannot use the device in subsequent uses. In some cases, making the device single-use may also have patient or subject safety benefits by preventing cross-contamination and reducing accidental confusion of medications or medication amounts. For example, if a patient or subject and / or user (e.g., a nurse or other healthcare professional) is unsure whether a medication has been administered, a disposed single-use device can indicate that the medication may have been removed and / or administered. Single-use devices may also provide a unique identifier, such as a serialized identifier. This can be used alone or in conjunction with a unique identifier on the vial or vial. The user or subject can match the vial identifier with the device identifier as a safety measure to ensure that the correct medication is being opened.

[0066] In some embodiments, the apparatus provided herein is used in the absence of a drug measuring device (e.g., a container such as a cup). Therefore, the apparatus can be used (e.g., solely for) removing the cover (e.g., a metal cap) of a drug container. For example, the apparatus can be used solely to open a drug container (e.g., a propofol vial) to extract at least a portion of the drug from the container and discard any excess drug remaining in the container, without further measurement of the excess drug.

[0067] In some embodiments, the apparatus provided herein can be used in conjunction with a drug measuring device (e.g., a container such as a cup). The drug measuring device can be used to measure the amount of drug drawn from the drug container and / or the amount of drug remaining in the drug container after a certain amount of drug has been recovered (e.g., drawn out) for use. In some cases, the apparatus and the drug measuring device can be provided in a single package or in separate packages. In some cases, the apparatus and the drug measuring device can be coupled to each other. For example, the apparatus and the drug measuring device can be provided as separate components that can be modularly coupled to each other via one or more coupling mechanisms. Alternatively, the apparatus and the drug measuring device can be provided as a single coupled unit.

[0068] In some implementations, the device (e.g., an opener) can lock (or irreversibly secure) a metal cap and plug to the device, for example, to allow the device to be used substantially alone for a single use. Alternatively, the device can be used multiple times to open multiple drug containers.

[0069] In some embodiments, the apparatus provided herein may be a stand-alone device (e.g., requiring no additional systems or components for use other than the drug container to be processed). In some embodiments, when the apparatus provided herein is present in or adjacent to a drug management system (also referred to as a Verified Institutional Environment for Wasting or "VIEW"), it may be used to control the access to and disposal of drugs in vials, which is capable of monitoring and / or recording (e.g., via one or more sensors such as cameras) as healthcare practitioners (e.g., doctors, nurses, etc.) use or discard drugs. In some cases, the drug management system may be a mobile system (e.g., portable) and in some examples may be referred to as a cart (e.g., a VIEW cart).

[0070] In some embodiments, the apparatus, systems, and methods provided herein can be used to handle and use drug containers in operating rooms (OR), transitional wards (SDU), intensive care units (ICU), emergency rooms (ER), recovery rooms or post-anesthesia care units (PACU), other clinical locations within a hospital where drug containers need to be opened and / or discarded (e.g., operating rooms such as endoscopy rooms, cardiac catheterization labs, interventional radiology departments, etc.), infusion preparation areas, and / or pharmacies (e.g., central pharmacies).

[0071] In some embodiments, the apparatus, systems, and methods provided herein can be used as part of a robotic device for removing caps from drug containers in clinical settings, such as operating rooms. The apparatus can also be used in other areas of hospitals where drugs are used and robots may already be present. In some cases, the apparatus can be added to areas of hospitals where robots are not currently present but will be added. The apparatus, systems, and methods can also be used in non-clinical locations such as drug formulation laboratories or drug filling pharmacies, where drug containers can be opened to remove contents for disposal or for other functions, such as separating or counting pills or tablets for sale.

[0072] In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods provided herein can be used to open non-mass-produced chemical and / or medical vials and / or vials in manufacturing facilities for use in common settings such as operating rooms (ORs), expedited care units (SDUs), intensive care units (ICUs), emergency rooms (ERs), recovery rooms, or post-anesthesia care units (PACUs) or other clinical locations. For example, this device can be used clinically or in research laboratories where pharmacists or scientists can reconstitute or prepare the contents of sealed, capped vials, and the devices and methods disclosed herein can be used to remove the caps from the vials. Therefore, these devices can be used for pharmaceutical vials manufactured by pharmaceutical or biologic manufacturers or for other non-mass-produced healthcare applications.

[0073] In some cases, the devices, systems, and methods provided herein can be used to open bottles and / or vials outside of the medical, chemical, pharmaceutical, research, or biological industries. For example, the devices can be used in the food and beverage industry to open bottles (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) and food in glass jars with metal caps. In addition to opening bottles or jars, the devices can be used to track and / or trace their location (e.g., their final destination where they were opened). This can be used to obtain prevalence data from a specific region, or by restaurants to streamline ordering after a certain number of bottles or jars of a given type have been uncapped. This can be achieved using machines and scanners similar to those in a pharmaceutical management system, working together to track and trace products. Alternatively or additionally, the devices themselves can have an embedded manner that provides feedback once the device is used.

[0074] Additional details regarding the drug management system and its use are provided in international application PCT / US2020 / 026434 (titled "Systems and methods for medication management") and international application PCT / US2022 / 015595 (titled "Systems and methods for tracking items"), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0075] In some embodiments, the device provided herein may be coupled (or contacted) with the cap of the drug container at an angle (or near an angle). In some cases, the angle may be substantially parallel to the plane of the cap (or substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis of the drug container). In some cases, the angle may be substantially perpendicular to the plane of the cap (or substantially parallel to the vertical axis of the drug container). In some cases, the angle relative to the vertical axis of the drug container may be between about 0 degrees and about 90 degrees.

[0076] In some embodiments, the device provided herein can be locked after coupling with a drug container (e.g., the neck or cap of the drug container). This locking mechanism can be reversible. Alternatively, this locking mechanism can be irreversible. In some cases, the device may include multiple locking positions, for example, to accommodate a secure fastening to drug containers of different sizes.

[0077] In some implementations, the apparatus provided herein may be a single component. Alternatively, the apparatus may be multiple components that work together (e.g., are mechanically coupled to each other) for use in the methods provided herein.

[0078] In some embodiments, the device may have a gap between at least two portions of the device, the gap being configured initially around the end of a drug container including a protective cap (e.g., a metal cap) to be removed. Once the end of the drug is placed at or adjacent to the gap, the at least two portions of the device may be configured to move relative to each other (e.g., in a direction toward each other) to reduce the size of the gap until the gap is small enough that the at least two portions of the device directly contact (e.g., touch) and / or press against the surface of the end of the drug container (e.g., touch and press against the side and / or top of the metal cap). The reduction in the size of the gap provided herein, relative to the initial size of the gap when the end of the drug is placed at or adjacent to the gap, may be at least or at most about 5%, at least or at most about 10%, at least or at most about 20%, at least or at most about 30%, at least or at most about 40%, at least or at most about 50%, at least or at most about 60%, at least or at most about 70%, at least or at most about 80%, at least or at most about 90%, at least or at most about 95%, or at least or at most about 99%.

[0079] In some embodiments, the degree of reduction in the size of the gap in the device provided herein may depend on the size of the metal cap of the drug container. For example, the gap may be reduced more to fit a smaller size drug vial (e.g., a neck diameter of 13 mm) with a metal cap, while the gap may be reduced less to fit a larger size drug vial (e.g., a neck diameter of 32 mm) with a metal cap.

[0080] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the device (which creates contact with a portion of a medication container to be removed (e.g., the metal cap of a vial)) may include one or more surface members configured to contact that portion of the medication container such that the contact strength is sufficient to withstand the force required to open and remove (e.g., via a lever mechanism) that portion of the medication container (such as the metal cap of the medication container). In some cases, the surface member may include one or more adhesive-coated areas. In some cases, the surface member may include one or more protrusions (e.g., one or more teeth) to form an indentation in that portion of the medication container. The one or more protrusions may include at least or at most about 1 protrusion, at least or at most about 2 protrusions, at least or at most about 3 protrusions, at least or at most about 4 protrusions, at least or at most about 5 protrusions, at least or at most about 6 protrusions, at least or at most about 7 protrusions, at least or at most about 8 protrusions, at least or at most about 9 protrusions, at least or at most about 10 protrusions, etc. The protrusions described herein may include cross-sectional shapes such as circles, triangles, squares, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons, or any partial shape thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0081] In some embodiments, the device provided herein can make contact (e.g., physical contact) with the side portion of the metal cap of the drug container, thereby anchoring it to the metal cap. Upon contact, the metal cap (e.g., the side portion of the metal cap) may develop a thickness of at least or at most about 0.1 mm, at least or at most about 0.2 mm, at least or at most about 0.3 mm, at least or at most about 0.4 mm, at least or at most about 0.5 mm, at least or at most about 0.6 mm, at least or at most about 0.7 mm, at least or at most about 0.8 mm, at least or at most about 0.9 mm, at least or at most about 1 mm, at least or at most about 1.1 mm, at least or at most about 1.2 mm, at least or at most about 1.3 mm, at least or at most about 1.4 mm, at least or at most about 1.5 mm, at least or at most about 1.6 mm, at least or at most about 1.7 mm, at least or at most about 1.8 mm, at least or at most about 1.9 mm, at least or at most about 2 mm, at least or at most about 2.1 mm, at least or at most about 2.2 mm, at least or at most about 2.3 mm, at least or at most about 2.4 mm, at least or at most about 2.5 mm. Indentations of at least 2.6 mm, at least 2.7 mm, at least 2.8 mm, at least 2.9 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 3.1 mm, at least 3.2 mm, at least 3.3 mm, at least 3.4 mm, at least 3.5 mm, at least 3.5 mm, at least 3.7 mm, at least 3.8 mm, at least 3.9 mm, at least 4 mm, at least 4.5 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 7 mm, at least 8 mm, at least 9 mm, or at least 10 mm.

[0082] In some embodiments, a medication container (e.g., a vial) may include a rubber stopper blocking the opening of the container and a metal cap covering at least a portion of the rubber stopper. The apparatus provided herein can be used to selectively remove the metal cap while leaving the rubber stopper intact in its original position. Alternatively, the apparatus provided herein can be used to remove both the metal cap and the rubber stopper (e.g., substantially simultaneously via a single removal step). For example, removing (e.g., rapidly removing) both the metal cap and the rubber stopper can help expedite the measurement of remaining medication (e.g., in a hospital or any institution associated with the pharmaceutical industry). In some cases, the coupling between the apparatus and the medication container can be controlled (e.g., adjusted) to select whether only the metal cap or both the metal cap and the rubber stopper are removed.

[0083] In some implementations, the device provided herein may be referred to as a cap remover.

[0084] In some embodiments, the device provided herein may be a single piece (e.g., single-piece injection molding) with one or more movable hinges. The movable hinge provided herein may refer to a thin and / or flexible portion connecting at least two segments of a molded unit, which operates by controlled bending of the thin / flexible portion rather than by using additional mechanical hinge structures (e.g., pin hinges). In some embodiments, the closure of the hinge (e.g., during operation of the device coupled to a drug container) may or may not trigger the appearance or formation of the scannable code provided herein.

[0085] In some embodiments, the device (e.g., a single device) can accommodate different metal caps of different sizes (e.g., at least or at most about two different sizes, at least or at most about three different sizes, at least or at most about four different sizes, at least or at most about five different sizes, etc.). The device may include multiple recesses of varying sizes (e.g., each recess has one or more protrusions or "one or more teeth") to grip onto the metal caps. The device may include stacked "teeth" or "clamping structures" to couple to or hold onto a drug container. Multiple recesses may be arranged adjacent to each other (e.g., on the same plane but in series or parallel). Alternatively, multiple recesses may be stacked vertically on top of each other (e.g., to save space). Multiple recesses stacked on top of each other may be concentrically aligned (e.g., having a common center) or non-concentrically aligned (e.g., not having a common center). For example, two or more recesses may be stacked on top of each other such that they overlap at points along their circumference. Non-concentrically aligned grooves prevent small metal caps from slipping (or moving or falling) into another groove with a larger diameter (or reduce the likelihood of it doing so).

[0086] In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein may be transparent, translucent, light-transmitting, or substantially opaque. In some cases, the device may be transparent or translucent to make the alignment of the opening of the device with the metal cap of the drug container visible. This can be particularly useful when the device includes multiple openings (or multiple recesses adjacent to or stacked on top of each other) to accommodate drug containers of various sizes. In some cases, the device may be light-transmitting, with desired markings (e.g., letters, symbols, numbers, logos, etc.).

[0087] In some embodiments, the devices disclosed herein may include (e.g., on the device or on packaging including the device) a scannable code (e.g., a barcode or reconfigurable visual code) to digitally link information about the device or a drug delivery device coupled thereto to a database. This database can then digitally communicate with, for example, medical practitioners. In some cases, the scannable code can be scanned to track one or more activities associated with the use of the device. For example, the device's scannable code can be scanned before, simultaneously with, or after scanning the scannable code of a drug delivery container to be opened, thereby tracking the use of the device for opening the drug delivery container. Alternatively or otherwise, the device's scannable code can be scanned before, during, or after scanning the scannable code of the medical practitioner's (e.g., doctor, nurse, pharmacist, etc.) identifier (e.g., barcode on user ID) or the patient's identifier, thereby recording the individual and / or time associated with opening the drug container via the device and subsequent drug use.

[0088] In some implementations, the scanable code may be pre-printed and / or etched onto the device (e.g., during or after device manufacturing). In some implementations, the scanable code may be a reconfigurable visual code that is segmented into multiple parts, such that opening the drug container using the device can trigger the multiple parts to combine together to form the scanable visual code.

[0089] Additional details regarding the scannable codes and their use are provided in International Application No. PCT / US2020 / 019122 (titled “Reconstructed segmented codes and methods of using the same”) and International Application No. PCT / US2020 / 029588 (titled “Drug security systems and methods”), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0090] In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein may be made of a single type of material (e.g., a single type of polymer). Alternatively, the device may be made of multiple types of materials.

[0091] In some implementations, the device provided herein can be used for healthcare (e.g., medical) applications. Alternatively, the device can be used for non-healthcare applications. For example, the device can be used in dispensing pharmacies and specialty pharmacies where vials of medicine are prepared but need to be emptied or “discarded” before dispensing or other uses. In another example, the device can be used in research laboratories (e.g., academic, government, public, or private laboratories) where liquid medicines are manufactured and tested, and where the remaining contents of those vials prepared in the laboratory need to be safely removed. The device can also be used for non-pharmaceutical applications, such as to open containers containing non-pharmaceutical goods (e.g., non-pharmaceutical chemicals).

[0092] Device This document provides a cap removal device. In some cases, the cap removal device described herein may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more rows of concentric teeth. In some cases, each row of the cap removal device described herein may have 2 to 8 teeth. In some cases, each row of the cap removal device described herein may have more than 8 teeth. In some cases, the total number of teeth in the cap removal device is 6. In some cases, the total number of teeth in the cap removal device is 18. In some cases, rows with wider diameters can correspond to wider caps. Therefore, one cap removal device can be used for a variety of different cap sizes. In some cases, the cap sizes are 12 mm, 20 mm, and 32 mm in diameter. In some cases, the cap sizes can be from about 4 mm to about 40 mm in diameter. In some cases, the size of the cap can be approximately 4 mm to 8 mm, approximately 4 mm to 12 mm, approximately 4 mm to 16 mm, approximately 4 mm to 20 mm, approximately 4 mm to 24 mm, approximately 4 mm to 28 mm, approximately 4 mm to 32 mm, approximately 4 mm to 36 mm, approximately 4 mm to 40 mm, approximately 8 mm to 12 mm, approximately 8 mm to 16 mm, approximately 8 mm to 20 mm, approximately 8 mm to 24 mm, approximately 8 mm to 28 mm, approximately 8 mm to 32 mm, approximately 8 mm to 36 mm, approximately 8 mm to 40 mm, approximately 12 mm to 16 mm, approximately 12 mm to 20 mm, approximately 12 mm to 24 mm, approximately 12 mm to 28 mm, approximately 12 mm to 32 mm, approximately 12 mm to 36 mm, approximately 12 to 40 mm, approximately 16 mm to 20 mm, approximately 16 mm to 24 mm, approximately 16 mm to 28 mm, approximately 16 mm to 32 mm, approximately 16 mm to 32 mm, approximately 16 mm to 28 ... mm to 36 mm, about 16 mm to 40 mm, about 20 mm to 24 mm, about 20 mm to 28 mm, about 20 mm to 32 mm, about 20 mm to 36 mm, about 20 mm to 40 mm, about 24 mm to 28 mm, about 24 mm to 32 mm, about 24 mm to 36 mm, about 24 mm to 40 mm, about 28 mm to 32 mm, about 28 mm to 36 mm, about 28 mm to 40 mm, about 32 mm to 36 mm, about 32 mm to 40 mm or about 36 mm to 40 mm.In some cases, the size of the cap may be less than approximately 4 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, less than approximately 8 mm, less than approximately 10 mm, less than approximately 12 mm, less than approximately 14 mm, less than approximately 16 mm, less than approximately 18 mm, less than approximately 20 mm, less than approximately 22 mm, less than approximately 24 mm, less than approximately 26 mm, less than approximately 28 mm, less than approximately 30 mm, less than approximately 32 mm, less than approximately 34 mm, less than approximately 36 mm, less than approximately 38 mm, or less than approximately 40 mm in diameter. In other cases, the size of the cap may be greater than approximately 4 mm, greater than approximately 6 mm, greater than approximately 8 mm, greater than approximately 10 mm, greater than approximately 12 mm, greater than approximately 14 mm, greater than approximately 16 mm, greater than approximately 18 mm, greater than approximately 18 mm, greater than approximately 20 mm, greater than approximately 22 mm, greater than approximately 24 mm, greater than approximately 26 mm, greater than approximately 28 mm, greater than approximately 30 mm, greater than approximately 32 mm, greater than approximately 34 mm, greater than approximately 36 mm, greater than approximately 38 mm, or greater than approximately 40 mm. The size of the vials and / or bottles can vary. In some cases, with larger caps, the vials and / or bottles are larger, and with smaller caps, the vials and / or bottles are smaller. In other cases, with small caps, the vials and / or bottles can be very large, or with large caps, the vials and / or bottles can be very small. Due to the multiple sets of teeth that accommodate different cap sizes, a device can accommodate any of these variations.

[0093] Figure 1A-1E A cap remover device 100 according to an embodiment described herein is depicted. Figure 1A A perspective view of a cap remover device 100 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 102, a locking tooth 104, a locking recess 106, an engagement portion 108, and an end 110. Figure 1B A cap remover device 100 is depicted in a bottom view. The cap remover device 100 includes a locking mechanism 102, a locking tooth 104, a locking groove 106, an engagement portion 108, an end 110, a tooth 112, and a rib 114.

[0094] The cap remover device 100 may have a double-walled box-like structure. The double-walled box-like structure may be present in the joining portion 108. In some cases, the device may include a flexible material. In some cases, the device may include polypropylene. In some cases, different caps may resist the cap remover device in various ways. For example, as... Figures 23A-23B As shown, a small cap (e.g., a 12mm cap) can cause the cap remover device to twist, so that the distal end faces downwards while the center is lifted. In some embodiments, such as Figure 23BAs shown, a large cap (e.g., a 32 mm cap) can cause the cap remover device to twist, resulting in the distal end facing upwards and the center being lowered. In some embodiments, a medium-sized cap (e.g., a 20 mm cap) may or may not cause the cap remover device to twist. In some cases, these torsional forces can be avoided by placing the device upright on the cap to interact with the teeth.

[0095] In some cases, the locking mechanism may include various types of locking mechanisms. Locking mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, lever locks, snap locks, latches (e.g., hook locks and / or hooks), Velcro and / or clasps. Clasp types include, but are not limited to, deployable clasps, folding push-button clasps, double-locking safety clasps, sliding clasps, butterfly clasps, or other clasps. In some cases, deployable clasps can provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, double-locking snap locks can provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, the locking mechanism may be curved, thus having a radius of curvature. The locking mechanism can be used to help the device remain attached to the removed cap after removal.

[0096] In some cases, the locking mechanism employs a locking tooth 104. The locking tooth 104 may include a single-strike lock or a double-strike lock. Therefore, the locking recess 106 may include a single-strike lock recess or a double-strike lock recess. For example... Figure 1B As shown, the recessed approximate diagonal corner may include an introducer that guides the locking arm into the locking recess 106.

[0097] In some cases, the engagement portion 108 includes a recess 106. The engagement portion 108 can be used to engage both the locking member or mechanism 102 and / or the cap to be inserted into the device. The engagement portion 108 can engage the cap by "teeth" engaging into the cap, thereby clamping down and pressing the cap in when the device 100 is pushed onto the capped bottle.

[0098] The following text Figure 1D Further discussion reveals that the end cap can counteract the closing of the lock. When the rear opening narrows due to closure, the end cap can counteract this by widening the center opening. In some cases, device 100 includes rib 114. In some cases, device 100 does not include rib 114. Rib 114 may assist in clamping the device once it is closed and / or assist in pressing on the locking mechanism to close the device, because the rib can provide friction on the fingers.

[0099] Figure 1C Depicting Figure 1B magnified view or Figure 1AAn enlarged bottom view shows the locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, ribs 114, and notch 116. In some cases, caps of different sizes engage the device 100 at different stages or areas of closure. This allows the compliant flexible hinge to bend differently for each cap size while still allowing the locking mechanism to terminate in its closed position within the notch. Hinge bending can be facilitated by minimizing the hinge width. This can be illustrated by arrows pointing to each other on either side of the notch. Hinge bending can be facilitated by adding notch 116 to the hinge. Slight misalignment of the locking mechanism can be corrected by designing the locking element with a curved guide that enters the notch.

[0100] Figure 1D A perspective view of a cap remover device 100 is depicted, which includes a locking tooth 104 inserted into a locking recess, an engagement portion 108, a hinge 116, and an end 110. Figure 1E A perspective view depicting a portion of a cap remover device 100 includes locking teeth 104 that insert into a locking recess. The darker area in the recess, where the locking teeth 104 point, illustrates how the recess is lower (e.g., recessed) relative to the wall of the device 100. This helps prevent the user from easily disengaging the snap-fit. A corresponding surface on the lower locking teeth is similarly recessed. In devices including two locking teeth, one tooth on either side of the device prevents the user from disengaging the locking mechanism by lifting in one direction.

[0101] In comparison Figure 1D The end shown and Figure 1A-1B In the end shown, it can be noticed that in Figure 1D The central open passage can be compared to Figure 1A-1B It is wider. Conversely... Figure 1B-1C The area surrounded by notch 116 in Figure 1D It can be compared to Figure 1B-1C The circumference of the engagement portion can be smaller when the device is locked. Tight locking of the device at one end can result in the release of pressure or force on the opposite end. This can be done intentionally, such as through a flexible space or channel configured to open when the device is locked, or it can be done unintentionally, causing the locking force to damage the other side of the device and break it.

[0102] Figure 1DThe locking mechanism 102 is further shown covering the circumference of the engagement portion 108 in its locked form. Therefore, the radius of curvature of the locking mechanism 102 is substantially similar to or substantially matches the radius of curvature of at least a portion of the engagement portion 108. In some cases, this is partly because the locking mechanism 102 may include a bendable hinge that can adjust its radius of curvature to the radius of curvature of the engagement portion it covers.

[0103] Figures 2A-2C depict blueprints of a cap remover device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment described herein. Figure 2A depicts a top view of the cap remover device 100, which includes a locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, locking recesses 106, engaging portions 108, an end 110, teeth 112, and ribs 114. In some cases, the device 100 may include brand symbols and / or company names on the end 110 on one or both sides of the device. Figure 2B depicts a bottom view of the cap remover device 100, which includes a locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, locking recesses 106, engaging portions 108, an end 110, teeth 112, and ribs 114. Figure 2C An enlarged view of end 110 is depicted. In some cases, device 100 may include barcodes and / or pre-written codes on end 110 on one or both sides of the device. In some embodiments, the barcodes and / or pre-written codes may be pre-printed and / or etched onto the device (e.g., during or after device manufacturing). Pre-written codes may include only numbers, only letters, only special characters, or a combination of one or more types of writing.

[0104] In some cases, barcodes can be read by a scanner. In some cases, the scanner may be a dedicated scanner for matching medications to patients, subjects, and / or users. In some cases, the scanner may be provided separately from or with the medication management system (such as the VIEW cart discussed herein). In some cases, barcodes can help track which medications should be disposed of and which are being disposed of into the medication management system (such as the VIEW cart). In some cases, the barcode on the device may need to be matched with the barcode on the medication. In some embodiments, the barcode or scannable code may be a reconfigurable visual code that is segmented into multiple parts, such that opening the medication container using the device can trigger the multiple parts to combine together to form a scannable visual code. In some cases, the scanner may be connected, coupled, or linked to the device disclosed herein. In some cases, there may be a blocking mechanism that prevents the locking mechanism from locking into the engagement portion unless the barcode on the device disclosed herein matches the barcode intended for disposal, disposal, administration, or opening of a medication for other purposes.

[0105] Figures 3A-3E A cap remover device 200 according to an embodiment described herein is depicted. Figure 3A A perspective view of a device 200 is shown, which includes a locking mechanism 202, a locking tooth 204, a locking recess 206, an engagement portion 208, an end 210, a rib 214, a rigid member 218, a hinge 220, and a movable hinge 222. Figure 3B A perspective view of a lower device 200 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 202, a locking tooth 204, a locking recess 206, an engagement portion 208, an end 210, a tooth 212, and a bottom stop 224. Figure 3C-3D An enlarged cross-sectional view of a device 200, including teeth 212, is shown. Figure 3C The diagram shows that the distance between the bottom of the cap and the tooth crest can vary for each cap size. This distance can be optimized for each cap size to provide the deepest tooth deformation with minimal force. The deepest tooth deformation with minimal force can be either the function of the diaphragm or the sealing height. Figure 3E A cross-sectional view of device 200 is shown, which includes locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, and teeth 212. Although the design of cap remover device 200 differs slightly from that of cap remover device 100, the functionality and components can be similar.

[0106] In some cases, the positions of multiple cap sizes may not be concentric. The center position of the cap can be set toward the main hinge positioned at rigid member 218. Setting the center of the cap toward the main hinge helps to position the bottom of the 13mm cap (e.g., when viewing the device from the bottom) in the correct position so that the 13mm cap does not pass through its respective bottom before clamping. The bottom of the 13mm cap may also have at least one curved bottom stop to facilitate this. The bottom of the 13mm cap may have at least two curved stops to facilitate this. The bottom stops can be configured not to touch when the device is clamped around any of the selected caps. Bottom stops may be found in Figure 3B and Figure 6A middle.

[0107] The cap remover device 200 may have a double-walled box-like structure. The double-walled box-like structure may be located in the engagement portion 208. In some cases, the device may include a flexible material. In some cases, the device may include polypropylene. The device may include an injection-molded, monolithic polypropylene structure. In some cases, it may have a compliant hinge to provide controlled deformation during deformation and cap clamping.

[0108] In some cases, different caps can resist cap remover devices in different ways. For example, such as Figures 23A-23BAs shown, a small cap (e.g., a 12 mm cap) can cause the cap remover device to twist, so that the distal end faces downwards while the center is lifted. In some embodiments, such as Figure 23B As shown, a large cap (e.g., a 32 mm cap) can cause the cap remover device to twist, resulting in the distal end facing upwards and the center being lowered. In some embodiments, a medium-sized cap (e.g., a 20 mm cap) may or may not cause the cap remover device to twist. In some cases, these torsional forces can be avoided by placing the device upright on the cap to interact with the teeth.

[0109] In some cases, locking mechanisms may include various types of locking mechanisms. Locking mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, snap locks, lever locks, latches (e.g., hook locks and / or snap fasteners), Velcro and / or clasps. Clasp types may include, but are not limited to, deployable clasps, folding push-button clasps, double-locking safety clasps, sliding clasps, butterfly clasps, or other clasps. In some cases, deployable clasps can provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, lever locks can provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, the locking mechanism may be curved, and therefore have a radius of curvature.

[0110] In some cases, the locking mechanism employs a locking tooth 204. The locking tooth 204 may include a single-stripe lock or a double-stripe lock. Therefore, the locking recess 206 may include a single-stripe lock recess or a double-stripe lock recess. The approximate diagonal angle of the recess may include an guide that leads the locking arm into the locking recess 206. The recess is lower (e.g., recessed) relative to the height of the wall of the device 200. This helps prevent the user from easily disengaging the latching engagement. The corresponding surface on the lower locking tooth is similarly recessed. In devices including two locking teeth, having a tooth on either side of the device prevents the user from disengaging the locking mechanism by lifting in one direction.

[0111] In some cases, the engagement portion 208 includes a recess 206. The engagement portion 208 can be used to engage both the locking member or mechanism 202 and / or the cap to be inserted into the device. The engagement portion 208 engages the cap by biting "teeth" into the cap, thereby clamping down and pressing the cap in when the device 200 is pushed onto the capped bottle. In some cases, the two halves of the engagement portion (e.g., separated from the middle along the axis of the end) may include movable jaws molded at a set angle to provide position for inserting the cap. The angle of the opening between the two halves of the engagement portion 208 may reflect the molding angle.

[0112] End 210 can act as a counteracting lock closure. When the rear opening narrows due to closure, the end can counteract this by widening the central opening. Tight locking of the device at one end can cause pressure or force release on the opposite end. This can be intentional, such as through a flexible space or channel configured to open when the device is locked, or it can be unintentional, causing the locking force to break the other side of the device. In some cases, end 210 can be used as a handle for positioning a capped bottle. By holding the device at end 210, the user's view of the device and cap is unobstructed. End 210 can also be used as a lever to assist in removing a clamped and deformed cap from a bottle.

[0113] In some cases, caps of different sizes engage the device 200 at different stages or areas of closure. This allows the compliant flexible hinge to bend differently for each cap size while still allowing the locking mechanism to terminate in its closed position within the recess. Hinge bending can be facilitated by minimizing the hinge width. This can be illustrated by arrows pointing to each other on either side of the recess. Hinge bending can be facilitated by adding a recess to the hinge. Slight misalignment of the locking mechanism can be corrected by designing the locking element with a curved guide that enters the recess.

[0114] Device 200 may include a brand symbol and / or company name on one or both sides of the device. Device 200 may include a barcode and / or pre-coded barcode on one or more sides of the device.

[0115] In some cases, device 200 may include rib 214. In some cases, such as when the engagement portion is approximately circular, rib 214 may be an annular rib. When the engagement portion is not circular, the shape of the rib may approximately conform to the shape of the engagement portion. Rib 214 may provide rigidity to prevent torsion of the cap retainer during clamping.

[0116] The rigid member 218 may include a rigid-flexible member. Member 218 can resist disengagement from the planar structure by grippers or teeth when clamping the device around the cap. Member 218 may be close to end 210 but may not contact it. In some cases, there may be a channel between member 218 and end 210, just as there may be a channel between the two halves of end 210.

[0117] Hinge 220 may include a flexible hinge member. Flexible hinge 220 may allow angular deflection. Hinge 220 may prevent torsion and misalignment of locking teeth to engage with locking recesses.

[0118] The movable hinge 222 allows for sharp bending when the locking mechanism is closed, so that the locking teeth engage with the locking recess. The movable hinge may include a hinge that withstands deflection. In some cases, for simplicity, this hinge may be mentioned together with two other hinges 220.

[0119] Figures 4A-4B A cap remover device 200 with a small cap is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment described herein. Figure 4A A bottom view of an open cap remover device 200 with a small cap is shown. The open cap remover device 200 with a small cap includes a locking mechanism 202, a locking tooth 204, a locking recess 206, an engagement portion 208, an end 210, a tooth 212, a hinge 216, and a small cap 230. Figure 4B A bottom view of a closed cap remover device 200 with a small cap is shown. The closed cap remover device 200 includes a locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recesses 206, an engagement portion 208, an end 210, teeth 212, a hinge 216, an edge 226, and a small cap 230. The differences between the two views illustrate how the teeth 212 press into the cap 230. The differences between the two views also illustrate how the locking mechanism 202 appears in its locked position. Figure 4B The locking mechanism 202, in its locked form, covers the circumference of the engagement portion 208. Therefore, the radius of curvature of the locking mechanism 202 is substantially similar to or substantially matches the radius of curvature of at least a portion of the engagement portion 208. In some cases, this is partly because the locking mechanism 202 may include a bendable hinge that can adjust its radius of curvature to that of the engagement portion it covers. When the device is locked, the overall circumference of the engagement portion can be smaller because the size of the rear opening surrounded by the notch can be smaller. The difference between the two figures can illustrate how the end cap 210 widens its passage in response to the narrowing of the area between the hinges 216. In some cases, the small cap may include a cap with a diameter of approximately 12 mm or approximately 13 mm. In some cases, the small cap may include a cap with a diameter less than approximately 20 mm. In some cases, the small cap may include a cap with a diameter less than approximately 10 mm.

[0120] In some cases, when the device is closed, the edge 226 of the newly formed channel, which was formerly the space between the hinges, may not be parallel. The device can be closed beyond the parallel point to facilitate strong deformation and clamping of the cap. In some cases, closing the device 200 beyond the parallel point with respect to the edge 226 can cause the cap's skirt to deform into a slightly elliptical shape along the main axis of the channel. This can also coincide with the open channel of the end 210. The end 210 can be used as a lever-operated handle. Since the main axis of the deformed cap is slightly longer than the next diameter of the bottle, it is easier to remove the cap from the bottom using the lever-operated handle 210.

[0121] Figures 5A-5B A bottom view depicts the open (5A) and closed (5B) configurations of a cap remover device 200 with a medium cap according to an exemplary embodiment described herein. Figure 5A A device 200 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 202, a locking tooth 204, a locking recess 206, an engagement portion 208, an end 210, a tooth 212, a hinge 216, and a middle cap 240. Figure 5B A device 200 is depicted, comprising a locking mechanism 202, a locking tooth 204, a locking recess 206, an engaging portion 208, an end 210, a tooth 212, a hinge 216, an edge 226, and a middle cap 240. Components and functionality may be... Figures 4A-4B Similar. In some cases, a medium-sized cap may include a cap with a diameter of approximately 12 mm to approximately 32 mm. In some cases, a medium-sized cap may include a cap with a diameter of approximately 20 mm. In some cases, a medium-sized cap may include a cap with a diameter of less than 20 mm or less than 30 mm. In some cases, a medium-sized cap may include a cap with a diameter of greater than 20 mm or greater than 10 mm.

[0122] Figures 6A-6B A bottom view depicts the open (6A) and closed (6B) configurations of a cap remover device 200 with a large cap according to an exemplary embodiment described herein. Figure 6A The device 200 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 202, a locking tooth 204, a locking recess 206, an engagement portion 208, an end 210, a tooth 212, a hinge 216, and a large cap 250. Figure 6B A device 200 is depicted, comprising a locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recesses 206, engaging portions 208, an end 210, teeth 212, a hinge 216, an edge 226, and a large cap 250. Components and functionality may be... Figures 4A-4BSimilar. In some cases, a large cap may include a cap with a diameter of approximately 20 mm to approximately 40 mm. In some cases, a large cap may include a cap with a diameter of approximately 32 mm. In some cases, a large cap may include a cap with a diameter of less than 30 mm or less than 40 mm. In some cases, a large cap may include a cap with a diameter of greater than 20 mm or greater than 30 mm.

[0123] Figures 7A-7C A bottom perspective view depicting the closed configuration of a cap remover device 200 according to an exemplary embodiment described herein. Figure 7A A cap remover device 200 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 202 on a small cap 230 and an end cap 210. Figure 7B A cap remover device 200 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 202 on a medium cap 240 and an end cap 210. Figure 7C A cap remover device 200 is depicted, which includes a locking mechanism 202 on a large cap 250 and an end cap 210.

[0124] In some cases, the force required to deform the cap using the teeth can vary. In some cases, the force required to deform the cap can increase with the size of the cap. In some cases, the force required to deform a small cap (e.g., approximately 13 mm in diameter) can be from about 40 N to about 70 N. In some cases, the force required to deform a small cap can be about 59 N. In some cases, the force required to deform a large cap (e.g., approximately 32 mm in diameter) can be from about 100 N to about 140 N. In some cases, the force required to deform a large cap can be about 125 N.

[0125] Figure 7D A cap is depicted being successfully removed using the means described herein (e.g., cap remover means 100, 200 or other means disclosed below). Figure 7D An example deformation caused by the teeth of the device is shown. It may be important that the top surface of the cap is not deformed by the device while the edges are deformed, for successful cap removal.

[0126] Figures 8A-8C A top perspective view depicting an open configuration of a cap remover device 300 for caps and bottles according to an exemplary embodiment described herein is shown. A single device with multiple grooves of different diameters can be adapted to medicine containers of different sizes (e.g., neck diameters of 13 mm, 20 mm, and 32 mm, respectively) to remove metal caps and / or rubber seals. The cap remover device 300 may include a locking mechanism 302, an engagement portion 308, an end 310, and a hinge 316. Figure 8A A device 300 is shown around the small cap. Figure 8BA device 300 is shown around a medium-sized cap, and Figure 8C Device 300 is shown around a large cap. The example drug shown is propofol, but this device, as well as other devices disclosed herein, can be used with any medicine bottle or vial, including those with metal caps, plastic caps, rubber seals, or other types of caps. Although these figures show simplified versions of devices 100 and 200, many of the components and functions are similar.

[0127] method This document provides a method for using a device to remove caps from bottles and / or vials. In some cases, the method may include placing the device described herein onto a cap attached to a bottle, pushing downwards such that the teeth of the device surround the cap, locking the locking mechanism such that the teeth are pressed into the cap, and removing the device together with the cap from the bottle or vial. Once the device is on the cap, forces may be applied radially inwards, downwards, or both radially inwards and downwards.

[0128] Figures 9A-9F Sequential snapshots of perspective views depicting a method for removing a cap using a cap remover apparatus according to an embodiment described herein. Figure 9A An apparatus is shown that includes a locking mechanism 402, a locking tooth 404, a locking recess 406, an engagement portion 408, and an end 410. Figure 9A The device is shown placed on the cap of a bottle, with the locking mechanism 402 in the fully open position. Figure 9B The diagram shows the locking mechanism 402, the engagement portion 408, and the end 410 as they begin to close. An arrow near the end indicates that as the locking mechanism 402 begins to close, the channel between the two portions of the end 410 begins to open. Figure 9C This shows that as the locking mechanism fully locks into the engagement portion, end 410 continues to open to its full width. This can happen while the cap is still on the bottle. Figures 9D-9E The diagram shows the removal of the device from the bottle, along with the removal of the cap. Figure 9F The diagram shows the device with the cap to be removed held next to the open bottle. This figure shows a bottom view of the device, and arrows indicate how far the end is opened to allow the device to lock around the cap. A locking mechanism can be used to help the device remain attached to the removed cap after removal.

[0129] Figures 10A-10C A bottom view depicts a closed configuration of a cap remover device according to an exemplary embodiment described herein, in terms of retaining the cap. Figure 10A Keep passing Figures 9A-9F The method shown has removed the small cap and shows the joining portion 408, end 410, barcode 420, and coded code 422. Figure 10B It shows the way Figures 9A-9FThe method shown has removed the medium-sized cap and shows the joining portion 408, end 410, barcode 420, and coded code 422. Figure 10A Keep passing Figures 9A-9F The method shown has removed the large cap and shows the joining portion 408, end 410, barcode 420, and coded code 422.

[0130] In some cases, the device may include a barcode and / or a pre-written code on one or both ends 410 of the device. In some embodiments, the barcode and / or pre-written code may be pre-printed and / or etched onto the device (e.g., during or after manufacturing the device). The pre-written code may include only numbers, only letters, only special characters, or a combination of one or more types of writing.

[0131] In some cases, barcodes can be read by a scanner. In some cases, the scanner may be a dedicated scanner for matching medications to patients, subjects, and / or users. In some cases, the scanner may be provided separately from or with the medication management system (such as the VIEW cart discussed herein). In some cases, barcodes can help track which medications should be disposed of and which are being disposed of into the medication management system (such as the VIEW cart). In some cases, the barcode on the device may need to be matched with the barcode on the medication. In some embodiments, the barcode or scannable code may be a reconfigurable visual code that is segmented into multiple parts, such that opening the medication container using the device can trigger the multiple parts to combine together to form a scannable visual code. In some cases, the scanner may be connected, coupled, or linked to the device disclosed herein. In some cases, there may be a blocking mechanism that prevents the locking mechanism from locking into the engagement portion unless the barcode on the device disclosed herein matches the barcode intended for disposal, disposal, administration, or opening of a medication for other purposes.

[0132] definition Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms, symbols, and other technical and scientific terms or professional terms used herein are intended to have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed subject matter pertains. In some instances, terms having a commonly understood meaning are defined herein for clarity and / or ease of reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed as representing a material difference from the meaning commonly understood in the art.

[0133] Throughout this application, various embodiments may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the range-based description is for convenience and brevity only and should not be construed as a strict limitation of the disclosed scope. Therefore, a description of a range should be considered as specifically disclosing all possible subranges and the individual values ​​within that range. For example, a description of a range such as 1 to 6 should be considered as specifically disclosing subranges such as 1 to 3, 1 to 4, 1 to 5, 2 to 4, 2 to 6, 3 to 6, and the individual numbers within that range, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This principle applies regardless of the size of the range.

[0134] The scope disclosed herein also includes any and all overlapping portions, subranges, and combinations thereof. Terms such as “at most,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and “between” include the stated numbers. Numbers preceding terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” as used herein include the stated numbers and also represent quantities close to the stated amount that still perform the required function or achieve the required result. The terms “about” or “approximately” can mean an acceptable range of error for a particular value that will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined (e.g., limitations of the measurement system). For example, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” can refer to a quantity within less than 10% of the stated amount, a quantity within less than 5% of the stated amount, a quantity within less than 1% of the stated amount, a quantity within less than 0.1% of the stated amount, and a quantity within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. For example, according to practice in the art, “about” can mean one or more standard deviations. Alternatively, “about” can mean a range of up to 20%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% of a given value. As used herein, the term "about" means a number plus or minus 10% of that number. The term "about" means a range minus 10% of its minimum value and plus 10% of its maximum value. If a particular value is described in the application and claims, the term "about" may be assumed to mean within an acceptable range of error for that particular value, unless otherwise stated.

[0135] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. For example, the term “a sample” includes multiple samples, including mixtures thereof.

[0136] The terms “determine,” “measure,” “assess,” “evaluate,” “determine,” and “analyze” are often used interchangeably in this document to refer to the form of measurement. Terms include determining the presence of an element (e.g., detecting). These terms can include quantitative, qualitative, or a combination of both. Evaluations can be relative or absolute. “Detecting the presence of…” can determine not only whether something is present or not, but also its quantity, depending on the context.

[0137] The chapter titles used in this article are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the topics described. Example

[0138] The following examples are included for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0139] Example 1: Postoperative case in the operating room - IV bottle / infusion This article provides non-limiting examples of using the device provided herein to handle propofol containers during surgery: 1. Select patient cases.

[0140] 2. Select the medicines intended to be discarded.

[0141] 3. The propofol bottle / infusion solution selected by the user.

[0142] 4. Point the propofol bottle at the camera that displays the dosage.

[0143] 5. Open the propofol bottle with the provided opener – Position the EXITSAFE opener device on the medical management system trolley for any of the available bottle sizes (20, 50, and 100 ml).

[0144] 6. Once opened, pour the remaining propofol into a graduated cup, which is attached to the EXITSAFE opener device or provided with the EXITSAFE opener device located on the medical management system cart.

[0145] 7. Align the graduated cup with the camera to accurately record the measured amount of propofol waste or confirm that the propofol from the propofol bottle has been substantially used, emptied, and / or disposed of.

[0146] 8. Enter the amount of propofol discarded.

[0147] 9. Dispose of any remaining propofol waste into the correct receiver indicated on the screen.

[0148] 10. Dispose of empty propofol bottles in hazardous waste receiving containers.

[0149] 11. Rinse the ExitSafe opener device and place it back on the medical management system cart.

[0150] Example 2: Device Development - Selecting a Coarse Approximation Scheme Extensive development and testing were conducted to determine the device model disclosed above. The first step in device development was to draw sketches and select three rough approximations for further study.

[0151] Figure 11-12 A conceptual sketch of the cap remover device is depicted.

[0152] Figures 13A-13B A first rough approximation of a cap remover device 500, comprising 502, is depicted. This could be a one-piece compliant design. Figure 13A A perspective view of a device 500 for attaching a cap to a bottle is shown, and Figure 13B A top view of the same device 500 is shown.

[0153] Figures 14A-14C A second rough approximation of the cap remover device 600 is described. Figure 14A A perspective view of a device 600, including a lock 602, is shown on the bottle. Figure 14B A top view of the opening device 600, including lock 602, is shown. Figure 14C A top view of the closed device 600, including lock 602, is shown. This can be a one-piece compliant design. Translucent polypropylene can be used in device 600 to aid in observation of the cap being removed.

[0154] Figures 15A-15D A third rough approximation of the cap remover device is described. Figure 15A A perspective view of a device 700, including a cover 704, is shown on the bottle. Figure 15B A perspective view of a device 700 on a bottle, including a spring-loaded gripper 702, is shown. Figure 15B A transparent cover is shown above the spring-loaded gripper to better see the spring-loaded gripper 702. Figure 15C A perspective view of cover 704 is shown. Figure 15D A perspective view of the spring-loaded gripper 702 is shown. The user can place the gripper 702 and cover 704 on the cap and push to press the cap. The user can pry open the cap, gripper 702, and cover 704.

[0155] Figures 16A-16B Depicting Figures 15A-15D The device has an opening (16A) and a closing (16B) configuration. Figure 16A The gripper 702 and cover 704 in the opening configuration of device 700 are shown. Specifically, there may be a height difference between the top of gripper 702 and cover 704. During this opening phase, there may also be no pressing or significant force on the cap. Figure 16B The clamp 702 and cover 704 in the closed configuration of device 700 are shown. Specifically, when the clamp 702 is carried upward to lock the device and press the cap, there may be a height difference between the bottom of the clamp 702 and the cover 704. As shown by the dashed circle, a portion of the clamp 702 presses or crimps the cap inside the cap.

[0156] Example 3: Developing a rough approximation scheme Extensive development and testing were conducted to determine the device model disclosed above. The second step in device development was to select two rough approximations, in this case... Figures 14A-14C The second rough approximation scheme shown and Figures 15A-15D The third rough approximation scheme, shown in 16A-16B, is then further iterated upon.

[0157] Figures 17A-17B Depicting based on Figures 14A-14C The first version of the prototype. Figure 17A A top view of a broken cap remover device 800 is shown, which includes a locking mechanism 802. Figure 17B A perspective view of the cap remover device 800 is shown. The structure is broken because it is too flexible. The semicircle can flex, allowing the device to separate from the cap. The teeth are only in the half of the device that pulls upwards. The hinge joint is too weak and has broken.

[0158] Figures 18A-18C Depicting based on Figures 14A-14C The second iteration of the prototype. Figure 18A A perspective bottom view shows a cap remover device 900, which includes an end 902, a locking mechanism 906 in an open position, a hinge 908, and a tooth 904. Figure 18B A perspective side view of a cap remover device 900 from its bottom angle is shown, which includes an end 902, a locking mechanism 906 in a closed position, a hinge 908, and a tooth 904. Figure 18C The device 900 is shown from a perspective top view. This design features teeth centered from top to bottom relative to the axis of the end. There is one tooth on each side of the device in each of the three rows of teeth. This structure is more rigid and therefore does not flex. The handle is aligned with the teeth and perpendicular to the hinge line 908. The two halves flex relative to each other at hinge 908, allowing the device 900 to pull the cap downwards. This design works when the cap is pulled off aligned with the hinge line 908. The gap in the center allows for easy clamping above the center to provide greater grip on the cap. The locking mechanism is similar to a deployable snap ring.

[0159] Figures 19A-19B Depicting Figures 14A-14C A perspective view of the third iteration of the prototype. Figure 19A A perspective bottom view of a cap remover device 1000 is shown, which includes an end 1002, a locking mechanism 1006, and teeth 1004. Figure 19BA perspective top view of a cap remover device 1000 is shown, which includes an end 1002, a locking mechanism 1006, and teeth 1004. This iteration again features three rows of teeth, but with three teeth on one side of each row, for a total of six teeth per cap layer. When the hinge is closed, the tooth closest to the pivot and furthest from the end 1002 engages first, followed by the tooth closest to the end 1002, and finally the middle tooth. This design clamps above the center for all cap sizes. The opening of the separated halves provides visibility of the cap's position when removing the cap using the device. The handle is aligned with the hinge line and there is no hinge deflection. A pull-ring handle or end 1002 moves the positioning hand away from the cap and bottle, thus improving visibility during cap removal. The locking mechanism is similar to an unfolding snap ring.

[0160] Figure 20 Depicting based on Figures 17A-17B , Figures 18A-18C and Figures 19A-19B The perspective side view of the first prototype cap remover device 1000 that is being iterated over in the iteration. Figure 20 The end 1002 and the locking mechanism 1006 in the closed configuration are shown. The locking mechanism is similar to an unfolding snap ring. This design may suggest remanufacturability because it is more... Figures 21A-21D The design is smaller, and because it is composed of only one component, it can be manufactured at a lower cost.

[0161] In summary, Prototype 2 successfully removes the cap from all three sizes. The hinge geometry facilitates closing and passing through the center clamp with minimal force. The separated halves provide visible spacing to assist in cap positioning. This prototype is noiseless. It is less expensive and features a one-piece construction. It is smaller and appears more manageable. The development direction is considered clear.

[0162] Figures 21A-21D Depicting based on Figures 15A-15D The second version of the prototype of the cap remover device of the 16A-16B design. Figure 21A A perspective top view of a cap remover device 1100, which includes a cover 1106, is depicted. Figure 21B A cross-sectional side view of a cap remover device 1100 is depicted, which includes an edge 1108, a spring 1102, a tapered surface 1114, a left follower 1112, and a right follower 1110. When the spring 1102 is compressed, the left follower 1112 and the right follower 1110 can be pushed apart and positioned at an initial position at the edge 1108. When the device 1100 is placed on a capped bottle and pushed in the direction of the arrow, the left and right followers 1112 and 1110 may slide too close to the cap on the tapered surface 1114. In some tests, the followers move symmetrically, such as... Figure 21C As shown. In some tests, the follower moves asymmetrically, such as... Figure 21D As shown. Figure 21C A perspective bottom view of device 1100 is depicted, which includes teeth 1104 before use. The spring is compressed without bending along its main axis. The two halves of the device (e.g., the left follower and the right follower) are closed together and can slide symmetrically. Figure 21D Another perspective bottom view of device 1100 is depicted, which includes spring 1102 and teeth 1104. This shows the device after use. The two halves of the device (e.g., the left follower and the right follower) slide asymmetrically, so spring 1102 is not compressed about its main axis, but is bent. This design has teeth centered from top to bottom relative to the axis of the end. There is one tooth on each side of the device in each of the three rows. Due to over-center closure, this device is difficult to press down onto a 32 mm cap. It fails on a 32 mm cap because the parallel movement of the teeth fails when the device is pulled away from the cap. Sidewall friction exists when the teeth engage all cap sizes. The device succeeds on a 20 mm cap. The device fails on a 13 mm cap because the parallel movement of the teeth fails when the device is pushed down onto the cap. This design may be more expensive to manufacture because it consists of two parts.

[0163] In summary, this device 1100 only successfully removed 20 mm caps. It requires significantly more force to clamp both 32 mm and 20 mm caps, with all six teeth engaging simultaneously. Positioning 13 mm caps is poorly visible and difficult when the device is placed on them. Clamping remains noisy even with lubricant applied to the sliding surfaces. It is a larger and more expensive two-piece construction. Because the toothed blocks must be mechanically constrained to remain planar during cap removal, the future development path is uncertain.

[0164] The next step after determining the type of prototype involves modifying the design to include a releasable snap-fit ​​to keep the device closed. This also includes manufacturing a small number of printed prototypes as evidence of the concept for nurse and user evaluation. Further steps include modifying the prototype design to replace the hinge pin with a spliced, movable hinge, such as... Figure 22 As shown. The steps also include building a prototype of the spliced ​​active hinge to evaluate hinge performance and possible tensile deformation. The steps also include creating a 3D digital model for polypropylene injection molding and pricing the mold for single-cavity development.

[0165] Figure 22 An extended perspective view depicting the next stage of a first prototype of a cap remover device according to an example embodiment described herein. Figure 22A cap remover device 1200 is shown, which includes a locking mechanism 1202, a movable hinge 1206, and a locking recess 1204. The locking mechanism may be a hook. The locking recess may be a hook receiver. The movable hinge provided herein may refer to a thin and / or flexible portion connecting at least two segments of a molded unit, wherein the hinge operates by controlled bending of the thin / flexible portion rather than using an additional mechanical hinge structure (e.g., a pin hinge).

[0166] Example 4: Deformation of an unsuitable device Figure 23A An example cap remover device situated on a cap, according to an exemplary embodiment described herein, is depicted. In the prototype examples discussed above, the positions may or may not be concentric. The closer placement of 12 mm and 20 mm caps to the main hinge prevents a 32 mm cap from being placed upright within the device, as the cap may not be planar and there may not be sufficient area in the prototype, such as... Figure 23A As shown.

[0167] Figure 23B The distortion of a cap when an example cap remover device is improperly positioned on a cap, according to embodiments described herein, is depicted. For example, a small cap (e.g., a 12 mm cap) can cause the cap remover device to distort, such that the distal end faces downward and the center is raised. In some embodiments, a large cap (e.g., a 32 mm cap) can cause the cap remover device to distort, such that the distal end faces upward and the center is lowered. In some embodiments, a medium-sized cap (e.g., a 20 mm cap) may or may not cause the cap remover device to distort.

[0168] Example 5: Measuring parameters for removing the cap from a vial An example of the device provided herein was tested to determine various parameters that might be required to remove the metal cap from the vial once the device is placed on it (e.g., deformation force, cap pull-out force, lateral pull direction). For example, when closed and locked, the opening of the device clamping onto the metal cap will have a diameter of 32 mm and a tooth arc length of 26 mm. Figure 26 ), 20 mm diameter and 16 mm tooth arc length ( Figure 27 ) or 13 mm diameter and 10 mm tooth arc length ( Figure 28 For each model device, Figure 26 The table in –28 provides the conditions that cause the metal cap to be removed (“pass”) or prevent the metal cap from being removed (“fail”). Figure 25A (Confirmed by the experimental setup shown in –25C).

[0169] Figure 24Top views of 27 variations of the tested prototypes are depicted. These prototypes are based on the selected prototype design in Figure 17. These prototypes failed for various reasons. Version 1 had a polypropylene movable hinge but failed due to excessive twisting and stretching in the hinge. Version 2 introduced an offset center, eliminating the polypropylene movable hinge at the fulcrum, but failed due to excessive horizontal deflection and hinge stretching. Version 3 eliminated the polypropylene movable hinge and developed a compliant structure, but failed due to horizontal twisting. Version 4 thickened the compliant member but failed due to horizontal twisting. This design is closer to a triangle towards the end rather than having separate joint and end portions. Version 5 has a thinner fulcrum, and Version 6 has a thicker fulcrum. Version 7 has a double-walled fulcrum. Versions 8-10 have profiles with different compliance to evaluate bending. Version 11 tested a thicker compliant structure but failed for a 32 mm cap. Version 12 added a polypropylene member for the most extreme bending but still failed for a 32 mm cap. Versions 13 and 14 were used to study bending. Version 15 added a polypropylene component to the second compliant bend, but still failed for the 32 mm cap. Version 16 attempted an alternative compliant method, but this alternative compliant method failed. Version 17 modified the polypropylene attachment, but success was inconsistent for the 32 mm cap, and the device broke. Version 18 was a study of snap-locking with an improved polypropylene hinge component. Version 19 improved the polypropylene component attachment and added a double snap-lock, but success was inconsistent for the 32 mm cap, and the lock failed after multiple uses. Version 20 moved the snap-lock component, but success was inconsistent for the 32 mm cap. Version 21 moved the snap-lock component again, but success was inconsistent for the 32 mm cap. Version 22 tested a pin-joint hinge, but there was body twisting. Version 23 had a pin-joint and double-walled enclosure around the device. Although Version 23 still failed for the 32 mm cap, its failure rate decreased. Version 24 features double-walled enclosures and polypropylene components. While Version 24 still fails with a 32 mm cap, its failure rate is reduced. Versions 25 and 26 are studies of double-clamp locks. Version 25, as... Figure 1E As shown. Version 27 has a good double snap lock, but occasionally fails with 32 mm caps, and the profile height of 32 mm caps is not uniform.

[0170] Figures 25A-25D A strength load test of an example cap remover device according to an example embodiment described herein is depicted. Figure 25A This is a top view showing the interface between an example tooth and a cap on the cap remover device described herein. Arrows indicate the length of the tooth. This can have one or more rows of teeth. Figure 25BA top perspective view depicts a test of applying a deforming force to a cap using the cap remover device described herein. Movable jaws surround the cap, allowing the jaws to clamp onto the cap and test how much force can be applied to deform it. Figure 25C A top perspective view depicting a test in which a cap pull-out force is applied. Figure 25C A top perspective view depicts a test in which a lateral pulling force is applied to the cap once it is inside the cap remover device.

[0171] Figure 26-28 Depicting the use Figure 25A Experimental data on the success rate of cap removal using the device as an alternative to the various devices described herein are presented. These tables show the tooth arc length, required average deformation force (in kg / time), internal deformation distance, deformation depth, cap removal force, lever or end length, torque (in kg / mm), and whether cap removal was successful (e.g., “pass”) or unsuccessful (e.g., “fail”). The internal deformation distance can be the internal distance generated by the teeth of the device. In early tests, two teeth were used in each test setup, resulting in the cap deforming in an elliptical manner. This elliptical deformation caused the “lateral cap removal” to fail.

[0172] Based on various tests, some general conclusions can be drawn.

[0173] In some cases, smaller teeth may fail during lateral cap pull-out.

[0174] In some cases, 6 mm teeth can be successful in a variety of (e.g., all) sizes.

[0175] In some cases, the teeth can deform the cap during pull-out and may need to hold the top edge of the cap in place, otherwise failure may occur. In some cases, smaller teeth may require less force to deform the cap. In some cases, a 13 mm cap may be relatively the most difficult to deform but the easiest to pull out. In some cases, during cap "pull-out," the teeth that resist the "pull-out" lift do most of the work, as shown by their deformation.

[0176] In some cases, the shape or "tightness" of the teeth surrounding the metal cap can affect the pull-out force. Closer and more parallel teeth can generate more force.

[0177] In some cases, small teeth in four radial positions at 90 degrees may be needed to provide cap pull-out cap in all directions. In some cases, the shape of the teeth at the 90-degree radial positions may need to have a radius to facilitate movement of the cap material during deformation to reduce the required deformation force.

[0178] Based on these test results, the device underwent further modifications and iterations to produce device versions 100 and 200.

[0179] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, modifications, and alternatives will now be conceived by those skilled in the art without departing from the present disclosure. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein may be employed in carrying out the present disclosure. The following claims are intended to define the scope of the invention and therefore cover the methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A means for opening a receiver, wherein the means comprises: The central portion includes two or more inwardly facing protrusions; At least one locking mechanism coupled to the central portion, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to lock the two or more inwardly facing protrusions around the cap of the receiver, such that the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are pressed into the cap; And an end head, the end head including a handle, wherein the end head is coupled to the central portion and positioned relative to the at least one locking mechanism.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus includes an unlocked state and a locked state.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the circumference of the central portion in the locked state is smaller than the circumference in the unlocked state.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one locking mechanism comprises at least one inwardly facing protrusion.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the at least one locking mechanism comprises at least two inwardly facing protrusions.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one locking mechanism has a radius of curvature.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one locking mechanism comprises an unfolding retaining ring or a lever lock.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one locking mechanism comprises a movable hinge.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the central portion includes a coupling member.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the shape of the coupling is designed to be circular or elliptical.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the radius of curvature of the coupling element substantially matches the radius of curvature of the at least one locking mechanism.

12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are positioned in the engagement member.

13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein when the apparatus is in a locked state, the at least one locking mechanism is positioned in the engagement member.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a locking recess in the engagement member, wherein when the apparatus is in a locked state, the at least one locking mechanism is positioned in the locking recess.

15. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the engaging member comprises at least one circumference, the at least one circumference comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the coupling comprises at least three circumferences, the at least three circumferences comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions, wherein each of the at least three circumferences has a different diameter.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein each of the at least three circumferences is configured to adapt to a receiver of a different size.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the two or more inwardly facing protrusions comprise two or more inwardly facing protrusions on each of the at least three circumferences, wherein an increase in diameter across each of the at least three circumferences corresponds to an increase in width of the two or more inwardly facing protrusions on each of the at least three circumferences.

19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein at least two of the at least three circumferences are concentric.

20. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the at least three circumferences are not concentric.

21. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the end includes a tension release portion, wherein the open space in the tension release portion increases in diameter in response to locking by the at least one locking mechanism.

22. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the two or more inwardly facing protrusions comprise four to eighteen inwardly facing protrusions.

23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises an integrally molded structure.

24. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a scannable code or a pre-written code.

25. The device of claim 1, wherein the end comprises a lever.

26. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one locking mechanism is ribbed.

27. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises injection-molded polypropylene.

28. A method for disposing of surplus drugs or pharmaceuticals, comprising: The cap of the receiver containing the remaining drug or medicine is fitted into the device according to any one of claims 1-27; The device is locked to the cap via the at least one locking mechanism, entering a locked state; A force is applied to the cap, causing the two or more inward-facing protrusions to press into the cap; Raise the receiver opener away from the receiver while maintaining the locked state; Dispose of the remaining drugs or medicines.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein locking the device comprises reducing the circumference of the central portion.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein locking comprises inserting the at least one locking mechanism into the central portion.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein locking comprises locking at least one inwardly facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the central portion.

32. The method of claim 31, further comprising a locking recess in the central portion, wherein locking comprises locking the at least one inwardly facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the locking recess.

33. The method of claim 28, wherein locking comprises releasing the tension applied by locking the device.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein releasing tension includes increasing the diameter of the open space of the device opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking by the at least one locking mechanism.

35. The method of claim 28, wherein the applied force comprises applying a force radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the force is i) applied manually by the user, ii) by the at least one locking mechanism, or iii) by both i) and ii) radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward.

37. The method of claim 28, wherein the disposal comprises neutralizing the remaining drug or pharmaceutical product.

38. The method of claim 28, wherein disposal includes scanning a scannable code on i) the device, ii) the remaining drug or medicine, or iii) both, to track the disposal of the remaining drug or medicine.

39. A system comprising: The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-27; And the receiver.

40. The system of claim 39, wherein the receiver comprises a bottle, vial, jar, or wide-mouth jar.

41. The system of claim 39, wherein the receiver contains a drug or pharmaceutical product.

42. The system of claim 39, wherein the receiver contains food or beverage.

43. The system of claim 39, wherein the receiver contains a liquid, a pill, a powder, a capsule, a tablet, a sac, or any combination thereof.

44. A method for opening a receiver, comprising: The cap of the receiver is fitted into the receiver opener, wherein the receiver opener includes two or more inwardly facing protrusions and at least one locking mechanism, wherein the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are located in the central portion of the receiver opener, and wherein the at least one locking mechanism is coupled to the central portion. The receiver opener is locked to the cap via the at least one locking mechanism, transitioning from an unlocked state to a locked state; The cap is pressed in by the two or more inward-facing protrusions by applying force to the cap via the locking mechanism; Raise the receiver opener away from the receiver while maintaining the locked state.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein locking the receiver opener comprises reducing the circumference of the central portion.

46. ​​The method of claim 44, further comprising a coupling.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein locking comprises inserting the at least one locking mechanism into the engagement member.

48. The method of claim 46, wherein locking comprises locking at least one inwardly facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the engagement member.

49. The method of claim 48, further comprising a locking recess in the engagement member, wherein locking comprises locking the at least one inwardly facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the engagement member.

50. The method of claim 46, wherein the coupling comprises at least three circumferences, the at least three circumferences comprising two or more inwardly facing protrusions, wherein each of the at least three circumferences has a different diameter.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein assembling the cap comprises assembling the cap into the circumference of the receiver opener that is dimensionally closest to the at least three circumferences.

52. The method of claim 44, wherein locking comprises releasing the tension applied by locking the receiver opener.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein releasing tension includes increasing the diameter of the opening space of the receiver opener opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking of the at least one locking mechanism.

54. The method of claim 44, wherein the applied force comprises applying a force radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the force is i) applied manually by the user, ii) by the at least one locking mechanism, or iii) by both i) and ii) radially inward, downward, or both radially inward and downward.

56. The method of claim 44, wherein the locking is irreversible.

57. The method of claim 44, wherein the locking is reversible.

58. A system for disposing of surplus drugs or pharmaceuticals, comprising: scanner; A cap removal device for opening the receiver includes: The central portion includes two or more inwardly facing protrusions; At least one locking mechanism coupled to the central portion, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to lock the two or more inwardly facing protrusions around the cap of the receiver, such that the two or more inwardly facing protrusions are pressed into the cap; and an end cap, the end cap including a handle, wherein the end cap is coupled to the central portion and positioned relative to the at least one locking mechanism; and Waste disposal receiver.

59. The system of claim 58, wherein the waste disposal receiver includes a medical management system.

60. The system of claim 58, wherein the cap remover device includes a scanable code, wherein the scanner is configured to scan the scanable code.

61. The system of claim 60, wherein the waste disposal receiver is configured to compare the scanned scanable code with a scanned scanable code on the receiver.

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