Protective packaging structures and kits for compressible materials

Abstract

The present application relates to a protective packaging structure for compressible materials and a kit. The kit includes: a bioactive compressible composition; and a protective packaging structure for transporting the composition, the packaging structure comprising: a containing unit having a first lower shell and a second upper shell, the first lower shell comprising one or more holes for receiving the composition therein, each of the one or more holes having surface features to facilitate the composition to be contained within the one or more holes and to reduce movement of the composition within the one or more holes, and the second upper shell being configured to be nested on the first lower shell to form a closed container, the upper shell further having one or more raised portions for defining discrete geometric shapes of the composition, wherein the closed container is configured to apply a compressive force to the composition therein and protect the composition from shock, vibration, or deformation when inside the closed container.

Description

[0001] Divisional application information

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application date of February 7, 2018, application number 201880010975.9, and invention name “Protective packaging structure for compressible materials”.

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent No. 62 / 456,180, filed February 8, 2017, entitled “PROTECTIVE PACKAGING STRUCTURE FOR COMPRESSIBLE MATERIALS,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure relates to packaging structures for storing or transporting materials that are sensitive to shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to storage containers and packaging methods for storing or transporting compressible bioactive materials. Even more specifically, these storage containers and associated packaging methods protect the compressible bioactive materials, which may include composite fibers and particles, from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation during storage and transport. Background Art

[0006] The past decade has seen numerous advances in tissue regeneration and wound care. One such advancement lies in the field of materials science and the development of novel synthetic graft materials, including bioactive ceramics and glasses. Currently, bioactive glass products in fiber form can be used as tissue scaffolds and have demonstrated significant potential in their ability to help regenerate new tissue, including both soft and hard tissue, and in wound dressings. While clinical results have been favorable, the inherent brittleness and, in particular, compressibility of the product present unique challenges in handling, and particularly in storage and transportation.

[0007] It's no secret that the packaging of medical devices is as critical as the devices themselves. Beyond the fundamental requirement of maintaining device sterility, damage to the medical device compromises the delivery of superior medical technology. For compressible synthetic fiber materials used in wound care and tissue regeneration, maintaining the integrity of these materials during shipping is crucial to ensuring the product meets advertised specifications and customer expectations after shipment. Fiberglass materials, particularly uncoated ones, will compress and change shape under their own weight if stored in standard packaging arrangements, such as standard plastic trays sealed with Tyvek or foil lids or plastic clamshell containers. Vibration from normal shipping activities can cause the fibers in the packaging to shift, potentially resulting in changes in the shape, appearance, and functionality of the synthetic fiber product. Shape change is particularly critical for wound dressings within the same shelf case, as noticeable product variations between dressings can lead to a loss of customer confidence.

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide improved containers for maintaining the integrity of fibrous composite materials during storage, particularly during transport. These containers should be able to protect the materials from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention provides a more robust packaging structure for maintaining the integrity of bioactive materials during storage, particularly during transportation. These containers protect the materials from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation. The materials can be in the form of synthetic fibers and can include composites of fibers and beads or particles. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, suitable materials that can benefit from this robust packaging structure include synthetic materials including bioactive ceramics or glasses.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a protective packaging structure for transporting compressible materials is provided. The protective packaging structure may include a container having a first lower shell and a second upper shell. The first lower shell may include one or more apertures for receiving the compressible material therein, each of the one or more apertures having surface features to facilitate containment of the compressible material within the one or more apertures and to reduce movement of the compressible material within the one or more apertures. The second upper shell may be configured to nest within the first lower shell to form a closed container. The upper shell may also have one or more raised portions for defining discrete geometric shapes for the compressible material.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the closed container may be configured to apply a compressive force to the compressed material inside and protect the compressed material from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation while inside the closed container.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the compressive force can be a vacuum force or a mechanical force. The containment unit can be configured to provide a pressure gradient on its surface so that different pressures are applied to the material located within the containment unit from one area to another and across the surface area of ​​the material.

[0013] Additionally, the containment unit may include various surface features on an upper or lower portion of the containment unit to help maintain the position of the material and reduce or eliminate any shifting of the material within the containment unit, as well as provide visual cues for the clinician to measure, cut, or otherwise shape the material for clinical use.

[0014] In one embodiment, the packaging structure may include a receiving unit having two holes. In another embodiment, the packaging structure may include a receiving unit having four holes.

[0015] In one embodiment, the packaging structure may include a first shell and a second shell, wherein the first shell and the second shell are separate components and are configured to snap onto each other. In another embodiment, the packaging structure may include a first shell and a second shell, wherein the first shell and the second shell are connected at one side to form a flip cover.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the housings can be formed of a clear material to facilitate viewing of the compressible material therein. According to another aspect, the second upper housing can be configured to be screwed onto the first lower housing. For example, in one embodiment, the first and second housings can be cylindrical, annular, or circular and include interlocking threads. According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the second upper housing can include a handle.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first lower shell may include surface features, including spikes, barbs, bumps, ridges, teeth, etched surfaces, or roughened surfaces. The surface features of the first lower shell may be located on the bottom surface of the shell, or on the side surface of the shell.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first and second shells can be configured to form a reclosable seal when attached together. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more raised portions on the second upper shell can create a hatched marking within which is a square or rectangular geometric shape. The first and second shells can be configured to form a mold tray for the compressible material when attached together.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the packaging structure can facilitate compressible materials including porous, fibrous, and hydrophilic bioactive materials. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sealed container can be configured to prevent the passage of gas, liquid, and debris.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the thickness of the first lower shell or the second upper shell can be non-uniform as a whole. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the surface features of the first lower shell can be evenly distributed across the entire bottom surface of the shell. According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the surface features can create a visual cutting guide for cutting the compressible material and / or can create a visual measurement guide for measuring the size of the compressible material.

[0021] In one exemplary embodiment, the surface features of the first lower housing may include features of uniform size, while in another exemplary embodiment, the surface features of the first lower housing may include features of non-uniform size.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the packaging structure creates a sealed container that can be configured to consistently provide a compression force gradient. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the packaging structure can be configured to maintain the compressible material in a sterile state when sealed.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a kit for tissue repair is provided. The kit may include a compressible composition of bioactive glass fibers and beads, and a protective packaging structure for transporting the composition. The protective packaging structure may include a housing unit having a first lower shell and a second upper shell. The first lower shell may include one or more holes for receiving a compressible material therein, each of the one or more holes having surface features to facilitate the compressible material to be contained within the one or more holes and to reduce the movement of the compressible material within the one or more holes. The second upper shell may be configured to nest on the first lower shell to form a closed container. The upper shell may also have one or more raised portions for defining discrete geometric shapes of the compressible material.

[0024] According to one aspect of the kit, the closed container can be configured to apply a compressive force to the compressed material inside and protect the compressed material from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation while inside the closed container.

[0025] According to another aspect of the kit, the compressive force can be a vacuum force or a mechanical force. The containment unit can be configured to provide a pressure gradient on its surface so that different pressures are applied to the material located within the containment unit from one area to another and across the surface area of ​​the material.

[0026] Additionally, the containment unit may include various surface features on an upper or lower portion of the containment unit to help maintain the position of the material and reduce or eliminate any shifting of the material within the containment unit, as well as provide visual cues for the clinician to measure, cut, or otherwise shape the material for clinical use.

[0027] In one embodiment, the packaging structure may include a receiving unit having two holes. In another embodiment, the packaging structure may include a receiving unit having four holes.

[0028] In one embodiment, the packaging structure may include a first shell and a second shell, wherein the first shell and the second shell are separate components and are configured to snap onto each other. In another embodiment, the packaging structure may include a first shell and a second shell, wherein the first shell and the second shell are connected at one side to form a flip cover.

[0029] According to one aspect of the kit, at least one of the housings can be formed of a clear material to facilitate viewing of the compressible material therein. According to another aspect, the second upper housing can be configured to be screwed onto the first lower housing. For example, in one embodiment, the first and second housings can be cylindrical, annular, or circular and include interlocking threads. According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the second upper housing can include a handle.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first lower shell may include surface features, including spikes, barbs, bumps, ridges, teeth, etched surfaces, or roughened surfaces. The surface features of the first lower shell may be located on the bottom surface of the shell, or on the side surface of the shell.

[0031] According to one aspect of the kit, the first and second shells can be configured to form a reclosable seal when attached together. According to another aspect of the kit, one or more raised portions on the second upper shell can create a hatched marking within which is a square or rectangular geometric shape. The first and second shells can be configured to form a mold tray for the compressible material when attached together.

[0032] According to one aspect of the kit, the protective packaging structure can facilitate a compressible material comprising a porous, fibrous, and hydrophilic bioactive material. According to another aspect of the kit, the sealed container can be configured to prevent the passage of gas, liquid, and debris.

[0033] According to one aspect of the kit, the thickness of the first lower shell or the second upper shell can be non-uniform overall. According to another aspect of the kit, the surface features of the first lower shell can be evenly distributed across the entire bottom surface of the shell. According to yet another aspect of the kit, the surface features can create a visual cutting guide for cutting the compressible material and / or can create a visual measurement guide for measuring the size of the compressible material.

[0034] In one exemplary embodiment, the surface features of the first lower housing may include features of uniform size, while in another exemplary embodiment, the surface features of the first lower housing may include features of non-uniform size.

[0035] According to one aspect of the kit, the protective packaging structure can create a sealed container that is configured to consistently provide a compression force gradient. According to another aspect of the kit, the protective packaging structure can be configured to maintain the compressible material in a sterile state when sealed.

[0036] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and do not necessarily limit the present disclosure. Additional features of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description or may be learned through practice of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0038] Figure 1A 、 1B 1C and 1C are photographs of a prior art packaging structure containing a fiberglass wound care dressing after shipment.

[0039] Figure 2 is another photograph of a prior art packaging structure containing a fiberglass wound care dressing after shipment.

[0040] Figure 3 is a photograph of an exemplary embodiment of a packaging structure of the present disclosure containing a fiberglass wound care dressing.

[0041] Figure 4A and 4B Another exemplary embodiment of the packaging structure of the present disclosure is shown, wherein: Figure 4A shows a top view of the lower housing, and Figure 4B Shown with Figure 4A A top view of the upper cover used together with the lower housing.

[0042] Figure 5A and 5B Contains fiberglass wound care dressing Figure 4A and 4B A photo of the packaging structure, in which Figure 5A A photograph showing the packaging structure and the fiberglass wound care dressing in a closed state is shown. Figure 5B Shown from Figure 5A Photo of the fiberglass wound care dressing with its packaging removed.

[0043] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a packaging structure of the present disclosure containing fiberglass material.

[0044] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a packaging structure of the present disclosure having a compression force gradient.

[0045] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a packaging structure of the present disclosure having a compression force gradient. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The present invention provides a more robust packaging structure for maintaining the integrity of bioactive materials during storage, particularly during transportation. These containers protect the materials from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation. The material can be in the form of a synthetic fiber and can comprise a composite of fibers and beads or particles. In certain embodiments, the material can comprise bioactive ceramics or glass. For example, fiber composite materials of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 8,173,154, U.S. Patent No. 8,535,710, and U.S. Patent No. 8,821,919 can benefit from the use of various packaging structures disclosed herein.

[0047] The improvements in fiber packaging provided in this disclosure allow for more rigorous handling prior to use. Since the vibration issues associated with normal shipping and handling have now been resolved through improved fiber packaging, new applications for the material are now possible. The fiber material can now be used by individuals. The new compression packaging allows the fiber to handle the shock and vibrations it regularly experiences when driving over rough terrain in a vehicle.

[0048] The retention of synthetic fibers, particularly compressible synthetic fiber materials including bioactive glass or ceramics used in wound care dressings and tissue regeneration, is critical to ensuring that products meet advertised product specifications and customer expectations after shipment. Fiberglass materials, particularly uncoated ones, will compress and change shape under their own weight if stored in standard packaging arrangements, such as standard plastic trays or plastic clamshell containers sealed with Tyvek or foil lids. Vibrations from normal shipping activities can cause the fibers to shift within the packaging, which can result in changes in the shape, appearance, and functionality of the wound care product. Shape shifting is particularly critical for dressings within the same shelf case, as noticeable product variations between dressings can lead to a loss of customer confidence.

[0049] Now turning to the diagram, Figure 1A 、 1B 1C and 1C are photographs of three individual fiberglass dressings 100 stored in single unit containers 2 of the prior art, pulled from a single shelf box after standard shipment. This means that each of the single unit containers 2 was shipped together in the same shelf box. As clearly shown in the photographs, the appearance and size range of the contents vary between the different containers 2, even though the containers 2 were shipped at the same time and in the same shelf box. The left unit ( Figure 1A ) shows approximately 100% fill, while the middle cell ( Figure 1B ) shows approximately 90% fill, and the right cell ( Figure 1C ) shows approximately 75% fill. Additionally, on the right Figure 1C Significant folds and wrinkles formed in the dressing 100. In addition, there was evidence of separation or disintegration of the fibrous material, such as Figure 1C Thus, it is apparent that the Figure 1A 、 1B Each of the three dressings 100 within the single unit container 2 of 1C is of a significantly different size and has a different degree of wrinkling or folds, despite having the same contents (including the size and volume of the contents) when shipped and being shipped together at the same time.

[0050] like Figure 2 As further shown, the presence of free-flowing beads 102 that have separated from the dressing 100 and accumulated in the lower left corner of the prior art container 2 represents another significant problem with current prior art packaging. The Tyvek lid provides minimal compression when closing the retaining tray of the prior art container 2, and even the plastic clamshell design provides minimal compression after initial closure. When the container is subjected to agitation or impact during transport, the jostling action can cause significant separation of the fibrous material (some of which is a fiber composite and bioactive glass beads) because centrifugation can cause a mixture of different components of different densities to separate.

[0051] To overcome these problems with existing packaging, the present disclosure provides a more robust packaging structure 10 for maintaining the integrity of compressible bioactive materials 100 during storage, and particularly during transportation. These containers 10 protect the material 100 from shock, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, one solution is to maintain the dressing in a constant state of compression to ensure that the dressing does not change shape or lose function during shipping.

[0052] exist Figure 3 In one exemplary embodiment shown, the packaging structure 10 can include a first lower shell or tray 20 and a second upper shell or lid 40. The first lower shell 20 can be defined by a bottom surface 22 surrounded by side walls 24 and include one or more holes 30 for receiving a compressible material 100, such as a fibrous bioactive glass material for wound care dressings or tissue regeneration. The second upper shell 40 can be defined by a top surface 42 surrounded by a top wall 44 and is configured to nest on the first lower shell 20 to form a closed container. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the closed container can be configured to apply a compressive force to the compressed material inside and protect the compressed material 100 from impact, vibration, deformation, or separation due to agitation when inside the closed container 10. The compressive force can be a vacuum force or a mechanical force, as will be described in detail below.

[0053] Figure 3 The packaging structure 10 shown comprises a two-piece shell design that snaps together to hold the fibrous dressing 100 in a compressed state. 3 The fiber mat is used to achieve compression. As shown, the two pieces of the packaging structure 10 can be separate components that are configured to snap together or interlock. Of course, it should be understood that the two pieces can also share a common side or be connected at one edge to form a flip-top container unit. It is also contemplated that the shells 20, 40 can include threads 32 and be configured to screw together, with the upper shell being able to screw onto the bottom shell in an interlocking connection, for example, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 The housing 20, 40 itself may be circular in shape. If desired, the upper housing 40 may also include a lip or handle 46 for ease of operation (see Figure 6 ). Similarly, the lower shell 20 can have a lip, flange, or other gripping portion 26 to facilitate handling. In some embodiments, the packaging structure 10 can be resealable, and the first shell 20 and the second shell 40 can form a reclosable seal when attached together. In other embodiments, the packaging structure 10 can be configured to maintain the sterility of its contents until the seal is broken and, therefore, cannot be resealed.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lower tray 20 can include a single hole 30 for a single unit dressing or pad 100. However, it should be understood that the tray 20 can include more than one hole 30, and can include two or four holes, for example, as will be shown in other examples herein. In one embodiment, the hole 30 can measure approximately 2 inches by 2 inches and form a square. However, other shapes and sizes of holes are also contemplated, such as rectangular or circular.

[0055] Additionally, one or more of the housings 20, 40 may be formed from a clear, transparent material such that the contents are clearly visible. Figure 3 The illustrated packaging structure 10 includes a lower shell 20 and an upper shell (or tray and lid) 40, both of which are formed of a clear material to facilitate viewing of the compressible material 100 therein. Each of the shells 20, 40 can be formed of a plastic material and configured to prevent gas, liquid, and debris from entering the aperture 30 and contaminating or damaging the material 100, which can be porous and / or hydrophilic and therefore susceptible to moisture or humidity.

[0056] Figure 3 The packaging structure provides the material 100 with a density of, for example, about 5 g / in 3 This compressive force is generated when the upper shell 20 and the lower shell 40 come together and generate a mechanical force or pressure against the compressible material 100 contained therein. Alternatively or additionally, a vacuum force may be used to generate the compressive force. Thus, the containment unit or packaging structure can be considered to function similarly to a mold tray.

[0057] exist Figure 3 In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, both shells 20, 40 of the packaging structure 10 are smooth. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the shells 20, 40 may not be smooth. In addition to securing the fibrous material 100 from the shells 20, 40 once pressed together, the dimensional features molded into the plastic shells 20, 40 can also enhance the fixation by adding additional compression to the dressing or material 100. In some embodiments, each hole 30 of the shell 20 can have surface features to facilitate the accommodation of the compressible material 100 within the hole and reduce the movement of the compressible material within the hole. For example, the patterns molded into the top and bottom of the shells 20, 40 act as teeth to impart gripping properties to the otherwise smooth plastic surface.

[0058] For example, Figure 4A and 4B Another exemplary embodiment of a packaging structure 110 is shown. The packaging structure 110 has the same features as the packaging structure 10, and like reference numerals refer to like features. Figure 4BA raised surface is shown forming a cross pattern 48 in the top surface 42 of the upper housing or cover 40, while Figure 4A A raised surface is shown forming an array of dimples 28 in the bottom surface 22 of the lower shell or tray 20. The additional compression features 28, 48 in the shells 20, 40 reduce movement of the dressing 100 during shipping, without significant changes in the dimensions of the fibrous matrix material 100 or loss of beads 102 from the fibrous matrix material 100. Another embodiment may have a raised surface pattern covering some or the entire top and / or bottom surface of each shell 20, 40 to provide surface adhesion enhancement or grip over the entire fibrous dressing 100, rather than a flat surface. It is contemplated that any feature that applies force in a localized area may be incorporated into the embodiments described herein. For example, another embodiment may utilize both a patterned and textured surface.

[0059] Suitable compression or surface features may include, for example, spikes, barbs, bumps, ridges, teeth, etchings, or surface roughness. These surface features may be found on the bottom of the first lower housing 20. However, surface features may also be provided on the side surfaces 24 or the aperture 30, as well as on the second upper housing 40. Figure 4A and 4B The compression features of the packaging structure 10 are evenly distributed on the bottom of the lower shell 20. In the example shown, the dimples 28 are evenly spaced about 0.5 inches apart from each other. However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, the compression features can be arranged in a non-uniform array or pattern to provide a compression force gradient on the packaging structure 10. For example, the compression features can be arranged in a starburst pattern with more concentrated features in the center as the features radiate outward to the edges. In another embodiment, the compression features can all be uniformly sized. In yet another embodiment, the compression features can have different sizes relative to each other to produce non-uniform compression forces within the packaging structure 20. In other embodiments, the type or shape or pattern of the compression features can be non-uniform so that a combination of different features can be utilized on the same shell, for example, a combination of dimples and etchings that are evenly or unevenly arranged on the shells 20, 40.

[0060] In another aspect of the present disclosure, certain features of the fiber fixation system can further assist the clinician in applying the dressing. Figure 4B As shown, the upper housing or cover 40 may have one or more raised portions 48 for defining discrete geometric shapes of the compressible material. For example, these raised portions create hatch marks 48 so that when compared to the Figure 5AWhen used with the compressible material shown, the cross-pattern of raised portions 48 built into the top piece of the packaging structure 10 can actually impart some indentations into the dressing 100, making it easier to separate the material 100 into four (4) 2×2 dressings or squares of material without the use of scissors. These hatch marks 48 can define discrete geometric shapes, such as square or rectangular shapes, and as shown, can provide indentations on the material 100 for scoring the material for easier separation. Figure 5B This shows how the material can be easily divided into these discrete geometric shapes without the need for cutting tools. In this way, the packaging structure 10 of the present disclosure also functions as a molded tray, allowing the material 100 to remain in a defined shape during storage and transportation until its use.

[0061] As shown, hatch marks 48 can create different squares of material for use as a dressing or tissue scaffold. Of course, other indentation configurations can be used, but the concept of increasing functionality by securing the dressing until use and making it easier for the clinician to tailor the dressing to the patient's needs remains the same. Additionally, dimples 28 formed on the bottom of the dressing provide the clinician with a visual measurement tool and a cutting guide for cutting shapes not defined by the top cross-hatching 48. For example, for a wound 2.5 inches in length, an array of 0.5-inch dimples would allow the clinician to simply count five dimples and cut, rather than trying to measure and somehow mark the dressing before cutting. These additions save clinicians time and increase value, especially in time-sensitive surgeries.

[0062] The packaging structure of the present disclosure can be configured to compress the fibrous material to an average bulk density within the range of about 0.5 g / in 3 Up to 20g / in 3 , or about 1g / in 3 Up to 10g / in 3 , or even about 2g / in 3 Up to 5g / in 3 .like Figure 6 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment, the packaging structure 210 can provide a uniform compressive force to the fibrous material 100 contained therein. This can be achieved by the packaging structure 210 employing threads 32 to allow the upper shell 40 to be secured to the lower shell 20 and applying a uniform and consistent force to the contained material 100 once the two shells 20, 40 are locked together.

[0063] However, in another aspect of the present disclosure, the packaging structure can be configured to provide a compression pressure gradient to the fibrous material 100. This can be achieved, for example, by securing the fibrous material 100 using a fiber density gradient or mechanically securing the fibrous material 100 using multiple compression patterns (i.e., two or more) with different density distributions. Examples of multiple compression density patterns can be achieved using a combination of features such as a flat surface, cross-hatching 48, or a dimpled surface 28 to influence fiber density.

[0064] Figure 7 and 8 An exemplary embodiment of a packaging structure that provides a gradient of compressive forces to the material contained therein is shown. As shown, by adjusting the amount of compression in one region to provide a higher average density in that region compared to another region of the same packaging structure, a variety of fiber densities due to compression can be achieved. One way to achieve different compressive forces is to vary the thickness of one or both of the shells 20 or 40. For example, Figure 7 As shown, when the two shells 20, 40 are attached, the raised portion in the center of the upper shell 40 will create a greater compressive force or compression point CP in that area. Figure 8 As shown, another smaller raised portion can be provided on the lower shell 20. Figure 7 When used together with the upper shell 40, a compression pressure gradient will be generated on the surface of the packaging structure (all due to the mechanical force exerted on the fiber material). As shown in the figure, the compression point CP varies in different areas of the packaging structure and can be between 6g / in 3 Up to 10g / in 3 within the range.

[0065] A kit for tissue repair can be provided, comprising the packaging structure disclosed herein and a compressible fibrous material suitable for tissue repair and wound care dressings, such as a combination of bioactive glass fibers and beads. The packaging structure includes a closed container that prevents separation of the fibers and beads due to shock or vibration, for example, during transportation, and helps maintain the sterility of the material.

[0066] Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the embodiments being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A kit comprising: a bioactive compressible composition; as well as A protective packaging structure for transporting the composition, the packaging structure comprising: a housing unit having a first lower shell and a second upper shell, The first lower housing includes one or more apertures for receiving the composition therein, each of the one or more apertures having surface features to facilitate containment of the composition within the one or more apertures and to reduce movement of the composition within the one or more apertures, and The second upper shell is configured to be nested on the first lower shell to form a closed container, and the second upper shell further has one or more raised portions for defining discrete geometric shapes of the composition, and the one or more raised portions provide indentations on the composition for scoring the composition for easy separation. wherein the closed container is configured to apply a compressive force to the composition inside and to protect the composition from shock, vibration, or deformation while inside the closed container.

2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the compressive force comprises vacuum pressure.

3. The kit of claim 1, wherein the compressive force comprises mechanical pressure. The kit of claim 1 , wherein the receiving unit comprises two holes. The kit of claim 1 , wherein the receiving unit comprises four holes.

6. The kit of claim 1, wherein the first lower housing and the second upper housing are separate components and are configured to snap onto each other.

7. The kit of claim 1, wherein the first lower shell and the second upper shell are connected at one side to form a flip cover.

8. The kit of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first lower housing and the second upper housing is formed of a clear material to facilitate viewing of the composition therein.

9. The kit of claim 1, wherein the second upper housing is configured to thread onto the first lower housing.

10. The kit of claim 9, wherein the first lower housing and the second upper housing are circular and include threads that interlock together. The kit of claim 10 , wherein the second upper housing includes a handle.

12. The kit of claim 1, wherein the surface features of the first lower housing include spikes, barbs, bumps, ridges, teeth, an etched surface, or a roughened surface.

13. The kit of claim 1, wherein the surface feature of the first lower shell is located on a bottom surface of the first lower shell.

14. The kit of claim 1, wherein the surface feature of the first lower shell is located on a side surface of the first lower shell.

15. The kit of claim 1, wherein the first lower shell and the second upper shell form a reclosable seal when attached together.

16. The kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more raised portions on the second upper housing define a square or rectangular geometric shape.

17. The kit of claim 1, wherein the first lower shell and the second upper shell are configured to form a mold tray for the composition when attached together.

18. The kit of claim 1, wherein the composition is porous or hydrophilic.

19. The kit of claim 18, wherein the closed container prevents the passage of gas, liquid, and debris.

20. The kit of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the first lower shell or the second upper shell is non-uniform throughout.

21. The kit of claim 13, wherein the surface features of the first lower shell are evenly distributed across the bottom surface of the first lower shell.

22. The kit of claim 13, wherein the surface features create a visual cutting guide for cutting the composition.

23. The kit of claim 13, wherein the surface features create a visual measurement guide for measuring the size of the composition.

24. The kit of claim 1, wherein the surface features of the first lower housing comprise uniformly sized features.

25. The kit of claim 1, wherein the surface features of the first lower housing include features of non-uniform size.

26. The kit of claim 1, wherein the closed container is configured to provide a compression gradient as a whole.

27. The kit of claim 1, wherein the closed container prevents separation of fibers and beads due to shock or vibration.

28. The kit of claim 1, wherein the closed container maintains the composition in a sterile state.

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