Apparatus for transporting laboratory animals

Abstract

This invention provides an apparatus for transporting laboratory animals, comprising a container defining a first chamber and a second chamber, the container having an open top including a top edge surrounding a periphery of the open top. A partition is detachably coupled to the container, wherein the partition separates the first chamber and the second chamber, and a lid is detachably coupled to the top edge of the container. The lid includes a first portal extending through the lid and located above the first chamber and a second portal extending through the lid and located above the second chamber. The lid also includes a first filter mechanism and a second filter mechanism. A filter mechanism is included on parallel long sidewalls at the base. The apparatus also includes a first cover plate detachably coupled to the first portal and a second cover plate detachably coupled to the second portal.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional U.S. Application No. 63 / 584,749, filed September 22, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0002] Unless otherwise stated herein, the descriptions in this section are not prior art to the claims of this application and are not acknowledged as prior art by virtue of their inclusion in this section.

[0003] Laboratory animals are frequently transported between various facilities for testing or experimental purposes. These animals must be transported in sterile environments to protect their health. Therefore, the equipment used for transporting them must be durable enough to withstand periodic sterilization.

[0004] Furthermore, the various facilities used to transport laboratory animals may be located in different countries. Therefore, the equipment used for transporting the animals may be inspected when passing through customs in different countries. Inspections typically include the interior of the equipment. However, it may be undesirable for customs officials to have contact with the animals. Therefore, there is a need for a device that allows inspection of the interior without opening the equipment or having direct contact with the animals.

[0005] Additionally, it may be desirable for the device used to transport animals to have a partition that separates the interior of the device and is thus located between two or more animals in the device. The partition in the device should be easy to install while still preventing direct interaction between animals and / or them from getting stuck in the partition. It may also be desirable for it to (i) prevent laboratory animals from escaping during transport; (ii) have a door that is both secure and easy to use to allow laboratory animals to enter and exit; (iii) provide visibility into the interior of the transport container; and (iv) have a secure method for closing the container without the need for a tying system.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need in the art for devices for transporting animals, particularly laboratory animals, that have these desirable features. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure provides an apparatus for transporting laboratory animals. The apparatus includes a container defining a chamber having a bottom and at least four sidewalls. The chamber can be divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by placing a partition within it. A cover is also provided that can be detachably coupled to the top edge of the container. The cover includes a first portal extending through the cover and above the first chamber, and a second portal extending through the cover and above the second chamber. The cover also includes a first filtration mechanism disposed within the cover. The first filtration mechanism includes a first plurality of air channels that allow airflow to enter and exit the first chamber through first filter orifices in the cover. The first filtration device is coupled to the cover above the first plurality of air channels. A second filtration mechanism is also disposed within the cover. The second filtration mechanism includes a second plurality of air channels that allow airflow to enter and exit the second chamber through second filter orifices in the cover. The second filtration device is coupled to the cover above the second plurality of air channels. The device further includes a first cover plate detachably connected to a first portal, the first cover plate being rotatable relative to the first portal; and a second cover plate detachably connected to a second portal, the second cover plate being rotatable relative to the second portal.

[0008] This disclosure provides a further device for transporting laboratory animals. The device includes a container defining a chamber having a bottom and at least four sidewalls. The chamber can be divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by placing a partition within it. A lid removably attachable to the top edge of the container is also provided. The lid includes a first portal extending through the lid and above the first chamber, and a second portal extending through the lid and above the second chamber. The lid also includes a first filtration mechanism disposed within the lid. The first filtration mechanism includes a first filter receiver for allowing airflow into and out of the first chamber, a first wire mesh panel inserted into the first filter receiver, and a first filter cartridge attached above the first filter receiver to the lid. A second filtration mechanism is also disposed within the lid. The second filtration mechanism includes a second filter receiver for allowing airflow into and out of the second chamber, a second wire mesh panel inserted into the second filter receiver, and a second filter cartridge attached above the second filter receiver to the lid. The device further includes a first cover plate detachably connected to a first portal, the first cover plate being rotatable relative to the first portal; and a second cover plate detachably connected to a second portal, the second cover plate being rotatable relative to the second portal.

[0009] These and other aspects, advantages, and alternatives will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings when appropriate. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1A This is a diagram illustrating a device for transporting laboratory animals, based on an example implementation.

[0011] Figure 1B To implement the example scheme, Figure 1A An exploded view of the apparatus used to transport laboratory animals.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the cover of a device for transporting laboratory animals, based on an example implementation.

[0013] Figure 3A This is a diagram illustrating the cover plate of a device for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0014] Figure 3B To implement the example scheme, Figure 3A A drawing of the bottom surface of the cover plate of the device used to transport laboratory animals.

[0015] Figure 3C This is a diagram illustrating the cover plate of a device for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0016] Figure 3D To implement the example scheme, Figure 3C A drawing of the bottom surface of the cover plate of the device used to transport laboratory animals.

[0017] Figure 3E A diagram illustrating two covers that are locked together to provide a cover for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0018] Figure 4A The photograph illustrates the cover and lid of a device for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0019] Figure 4B The photograph illustrates an implementation scheme based on an example. Figure 4A The cover plate and the bottom surface of the device used to transport laboratory animals.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a partition of a device for transporting laboratory animals, based on an example implementation.

[0021] Figure 6 The photograph illustrates a container for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0022] Figure 7 The photograph illustrates a partition inside a container of a device for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the wire mesh and filter inside a container of a device for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0024] Figure 9A This is a diagram illustrating the stacking of devices for transporting laboratory animals according to an example implementation.

[0025] Figure 9B The photograph illustrates a stack of devices used for transporting laboratory animals, according to an example implementation.

[0026] Figure 10A This is a diagram illustrating a device for transporting laboratory animals, based on an example implementation.

[0027] Figure 10B To implement the example scheme, Figure 10A An exploded view of the apparatus used to transport laboratory animals.

[0028] Figure 10C This is a diagram illustrating the cover of a device for transporting laboratory animals, based on an example implementation.

[0029] Figure 10D To implement the example scheme, Figure 10A Further illustration of the device used to transport laboratory animals.

[0030] Figure 10E To implement the example scheme, Figure 10A A front view of the device used to transport laboratory animals.

[0031] Figure 10F To implement the example scheme, Figure 10A Rear view of the device used to transport laboratory animals.

[0032] Figure 10G To implement the example scheme, Figure 10A A side view of the device used to transport laboratory animals. Detailed Implementation

[0033] This document discloses an example method and system for transporting at least one laboratory animal (such as a rodent), and methods of using it. Any example embodiments or features described herein should not be construed as necessarily superior to or better than other embodiments or features. Furthermore, the example embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting. It will be readily understood that certain aspects of the disclosed systems and methods can be arranged and combined in a wide range of different configurations, all of which are covered herein. Additionally, the specific arrangements shown in the figures should not be considered limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments may include more or fewer elements than shown in the given figures. Furthermore, some illustrated elements may be combined or omitted. Also, example embodiments may include elements not shown in the figures.

[0034] Figure 1A-7 The illustrations depict various aspects of the apparatus used to transport laboratory animals. Figure 1A The illustration shows a device 100, which includes a container 102, a partition 104, and a cover 106. The device 100 also includes a first cover plate 108 that can be received in a portion of the cover 106 and a second cover plate 110 that can be received in different portions of the cover 106. Figure 1B It shows Figure 1A An exploded view of the components, and Figure 2-7 It is illustrated Figure 1A-1B Various components of the device 100 are shown in the figure.

[0035] For example, Figure 2 The illustration depicts a lid 106 of device 100 according to an example embodiment. Lid 106 is connectable to container 102, closing the open top of container 102. In some embodiments, lid 106 is connectable to container 102 at a top edge surrounding the periphery of the open top of container 106. Furthermore, in some embodiments, lid 106 is made of a material capable of sterilization without causing damaging deformation of lid 106. For example, in some embodiments, lid 106 is molded from a thermoplastic material such as polypropylene. In other embodiments, the entire lid 106 is constructed of transparent polypropylene to allow inspection of the contents. In some embodiments, lid 106 is approximately two millimeters thick.

[0036] The cover 106 includes a first portal 112 extending through the cover 106 and configured to be located above a first chamber of the container 102. In some embodiments, the first portal 112 is a threshold through which a first laboratory animal passes during insertion into and removal from the container 102. The cover 106 also includes a second portal 114 extending through the cover 106 and configured to be located above a second chamber of the container 102. In some embodiments, the second portal 114 is a threshold through which a second laboratory animal passes during insertion into and removal from the container 102. In some embodiments, the first portal 112 further includes a first receiving mechanism 116 for receiving a portion of a first cover plate 108, and the second portal 114 includes a second receiving mechanism 118 for receiving a portion of a second cover plate 110. In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, both the first portal 112 and the second portal 114 can be circular. Other shapes of the first portal 112 and the second portal 114 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0037] The cover 106 also includes a first filter mechanism 120 located in a first channel in the cover 106 and a second filter mechanism 122 located in a second channel in the cover 106. In some embodiments, the first filter mechanism 120 includes a first plurality of air passages that allow airflow through the first channel in the cover 106 to enter and exit the container 102, wherein the first filter device covers the first plurality of air passages and prevents contaminants from entering the container 102, and the second filter mechanism 122 includes a second plurality of air passages that allow airflow through the second channel in the cover 106 to enter and exit the container 102, wherein the second filter device covers the second plurality of air passages and prevents contaminants from entering the container 102.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first filter element 120 and the second filter element 122 may each include a wire mesh panel inserted into at least a portion of the cover 106. Furthermore, in such embodiments, multiple filters and / or pre-filters may be attached to the wire mesh panel, as described below. In some embodiments, the wire mesh panel may have 4 to 8 openings per inch (e.g., 6 openings per inch), a wire diameter between 0.015 inches and 0.050 inches (e.g., 0.028 inches), and be made of stainless steel, coated low-carbon steel, etc.

[0039] In some embodiments, the cover 106 further includes an extrusion 124 that extends toward the interior of the container 102 when the cover 106 is attached to the top edge of the container 102 and when the cover 106 is in the closed position relative to the container 102. The extrusion 124 is designed to be detachably attached to the partition 104 when the partition 104 is installed in the container 102.

[0040] In some embodiments, the lid 106 further includes a plurality of lid fastening mechanisms 126, wherein the plurality of lid fastening mechanisms 126 interact with a plurality of container fastening mechanisms of the container 102 to secure the interior of the device 100. The plurality of lid fastening mechanisms 126 may include any type of fastening mechanism, including snaps, locks, tabs, etc.

[0041] In some embodiments, the cover 106 also includes one or more stacking protrusions 128. These one or more stacking protrusions 128 facilitate stacking one device on top of another, with the container of the upper device being received in one or more stacking protrusions 128 of device 100. Similarly, when stacked, the container 102 of device 100 is received in one or more stacking protrusions of the lower device. Figure 2 As shown, the cover 106 of the device 100 includes four stacked protrusions 128 located near the respective rounded corners of the cover 106. In some embodiments, each stacked protrusion 128 includes an arcuate outer wall extending upward from the upper surface of the cover 106 and tapering inward as it extends upward from the cover 106. In such embodiments, each stacked protrusion 128 also includes an arcuate inner wall extending upward from the cover 106 to a height approximately half the distance of the arcuate outer wall and tapering outward as it extends upward from the cover 106. Furthermore, in such embodiments, a horizontal support wall extends outward from the arcuate inner wall toward the arcuate outer wall in a direction generally parallel to the cover 106, and a vertical support wall connects the horizontal support wall to the upper support wall of each stacked protrusion 128. In some embodiments, each stacked protrusion 128 opens from the bottom surface of the cover 106. Therefore, when viewed from below, each of the stacked protrusions 128 forms a pocket on the bottom surface of the lid 106. The pockets formed by the stacked protrusions 128 allow multiple lid pieces to be nested together for storage or other transport purposes. When nested, the stacked protrusions 128 of one lid 106 are received in the pocket formed by the stacked protrusions of another lid. The nesting capability of the lids 106 allows for the simultaneous sterilization of multiple lid pieces, preferably when nested.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cover 106 further includes one or more mating protrusions 130. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of mating protrusions 130 extends outward from the outside of the cover 106. For example, in some embodiments, each mating protrusion 130 includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein the first protrusion of each mating protrusion 130 extends outward by a first distance and the second protrusion of the mating protrusion 130 includes a stepped profile having a first portion extending outward by a second distance (the second distance being greater than the first distance), and a second portion on the opposite side of the first portion relative to the first protrusion and extending outward by the first distance. In such embodiments, the second protrusion of the mating protrusion 130 is spaced apart from the first protrusion. Figure 2 As shown, each long side of the cover 106 may include more than one mating protrusion 130. In other embodiments, each short side of the cover 106 may also include one or more mating protrusions 130.

[0043] Figure 3A and 3B The top and bottom surfaces of the first cover 108 are shown. The first cover 108 is received in the first portal 112, wherein the first cover 108 is rotatable relative to the first portal 112 between a locked position and an unlocked position. The first cover 108 includes a handle 132 having a hole 134 at its outer end near the handle 132. The hole 134 is configured to receive a cable tie or other fastening mechanism when the first cover 108 is engaged with the first portal 112 to ensure that the first cover 108 remains in a locked, tamper-proof position. The cable tie may be connected to another cover, a container lid for locking a specific portion of the first portal 112, or any other locking device. The first cover 108 also includes a first engagement mechanism 136 on its bottom surface, which is configured to interact with a first receiving mechanism 116 of the first portal 112 when the first cover 108 is in the closed position relative to the first portal 112. The first engagement mechanism 136 and the first receiving mechanism 116 may include any known fastening and / or attachment components, such as threads, flanges, snaps, etc. For example, the first cover plate 108 may be securely connected to the first portal 112 via a locking tab or snap engagement, thereby eliminating the need to strap the device 100 and providing an airtight seal to prevent unfiltered air from entering the device.

[0044] Similarly, such as Figure 3C and 3DAs shown, a second cover 110 is received in a second portal 114, wherein the second cover 110 is rotatable relative to the second portal 114 between a locked position and an unlocked position. The second cover 110 includes a handle 138 having a hole 140 at its outer end near the handle 138. The hole 140 is configured to receive a cable tie or other fastening mechanism when the second cover 110 is engaged with the second portal 114 to ensure that the second cover 110 remains in a locked, tamper-proof position. The cable tie may be connected to another cover, a specific portion of a container lid for locking the second portal 114, or any other locking device. The second cover 110 also includes a second engagement mechanism 142 on its bottom surface, configured to interact with a second receiving mechanism 118 of the second portal 114 when the second cover 110 is in the closed position relative to the second portal 114. The second engagement mechanism 142 and the second receiving mechanism 118 may also include any known fastening and / or attachment components, such as threads, flanges, snaps, etc. For example, the second cover plate 110 can be securely connected to the second portal 114 via a locking tab or snap-fit ​​engagement, thereby eliminating the need to secure the device 100 and providing an airtight seal to prevent unfiltered air from entering the device.

[0045] In some implementations, such as Figure 3E As shown, the first cover 108 and the second cover 110 engage with the first portal 112 and the second portal 114, respectively, such that when in the closed position, the handle 132 of the first cover 108 is side-by-side with the handle 138 of the second cover 110. Therefore, when each cover is in its closed position, a single locking mechanism—such as an tamper-evident device 137—can be inserted through both the hole 134 of the first cover 108 and the hole 140 of the second cover 110 to ensure the secure closure of the device 100. In some embodiments, the tamper-evident device 137 may be a cable tie, a twisted cable tie, a padlock, or any other locking mechanism capable of being inserted into the holes 134 and 140, respectively.

[0046] In some embodiments, both the first cover 108 and the second cover 110 may be made of a transparent or translucent material (such as transparent polypropylene or other generally translucent substances) and produced in a polished mold to enhance visibility of the contents of the device 100 during transport. In some embodiments, the first cover 108 and the second cover 110 may be identical. In other embodiments, the first cover 108 and the second cover 110 may be precisely opposite to each other, wherein the first cover 108 is screwed into the first portal 112 in a first direction, while the second cover 110 is screwed into the second portal 114 in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0047] Figure 4AThe illustration shows a cover 106 having a first cover 108 in an open position relative to a first portal 112 and a second cover 110 in a closed position relative to a second portal 114. Figure 4B The bottom surface of the cover 106 is shown after the first cover 108 and the second cover 110 are respectively in the closed position relative to the first portal 112 and the second portal 114. Figures 4A-4B As shown, the cover 106 may also include an observation window, or as described herein and as... Figure 1A-2 As shown, the viewing window can be replaced with a filter.

[0048] Figure 5 A partition 104, which can be received by container 102, is illustrated, such that the partition 104 divides container 102 into a first chamber and a second chamber. The partition 104 includes an upper groove 152 along its upper edge, a lower groove 154, a first side groove 156 along a first side, and a second side groove 158 along a second side. In some embodiments, the upper groove 152, lower groove 154, first side groove 156, and second side groove 158 are each a semi-circular indentation in the partition 104. Accordingly, the lower groove 154 is configured to receive a lower protrusion of container 102, the first side groove 156 is configured to receive a first side protrusion of container 102, and the second side groove 158 is configured to receive a second side protrusion of container 102. Other shapes and sizes of these grooves are also possible. Additionally, the partition 104 may comprise a variety of materials having various material properties, which may be the same as or different from those of container 102 and / or lid 106. For example, in some embodiments, the partition 104 may be transparent and / or translucent, while in other embodiments it may be opaque.

[0049] Figure 6 A container 102 with an open top is illustrated. In some embodiments, the container 102 includes a rectangular base, first and second short sidewalls extending upward from the rectangular base, and first and second long sidewalls extending upward from the rectangular base. In some embodiments, the container 102 may also include a top edge 170 disposed around the top periphery of the container 102, which is configured to interact with a lid 106 to close the device 100. In some embodiments, the container 102 may also include a plurality of container fastening mechanisms (not shown) configured to interact with a plurality of lid fastening mechanisms 126 of the lid 106 to secure the lid 106 to the container 102.

[0050] Furthermore, in some embodiments, container 102 is made of a material capable of sterilization without causing damaging deformation to container 102. For example, in some embodiments, container 102 is integrally molded from a thermoplastic material, such as polypropylene, which has high flow properties and high thermal stability. Additionally, in some embodiments, each wall of container 102 has a wall thickness of approximately two millimeters, but other thicknesses are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0051] In some embodiments, the rectangular base of container 102 is a generally rectangular plane with rounded corners. In some embodiments, the rectangular base of container 102 may also have equal sides and thus be square. In such embodiments, partitions inserted into the container may be arranged within the container to bisect the volume of the container along the diagonal dimension of the square container. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the length of the rectangular base between the first short sidewall and the second short sidewall is approximately twice the width of the rectangular base between the first long sidewall and the second long sidewall.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first short sidewall of container 102 extends upward from a rectangular base and is trapezoidal in shape, having parallel lower and upper edges and angled side edges. In such embodiments, the upper edge of the first short sidewall is longer than the lower edge of the first short sidewall. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the lower edge of the first short sidewall has a length approximately equal to the width of the rectangular base of container 102. In some embodiments, rounded edges connect the lower edge of the first short sidewall to the corresponding short edge of the rectangular base. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first short sidewall extends at an angle greater than ninety degrees relative to the rectangular base, wherein the upper edge of the first short sidewall extends outward beyond the corresponding short edge of the rectangular base.

[0053] Similarly, in some embodiments, the second short sidewall of container 102 extends upward from the rectangular base and is trapezoidal in shape, having parallel lower and upper edges and angled side edges. In such embodiments, the upper edge of the second short sidewall is longer than the lower edge of the second short sidewall. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the lower edge of the second short sidewall has a length approximately equal to the width of the rectangular base of container 102. In some embodiments, rounded edges connect the lower edge of the second short sidewall to the corresponding short edge of the rectangular base. Additionally, in some embodiments, the second short sidewall extends at an angle greater than ninety degrees relative to the rectangular base, wherein the upper edge of the second short sidewall extends outward beyond the corresponding short edge of the rectangular base.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first long sidewall of container 102 also extends upward from the rectangular base in a trapezoidal shape and includes parallel lower and upper edges as well as angled first and second side edges. In such embodiments, the upper edge of the first long sidewall is longer than the lower edge of the first long sidewall. In such embodiments, the lower edge of the first long sidewall has a length approximately equal to the length of the rectangular base. In some embodiments, rounded edges connect the lower edge of the first long sidewall to one of the associated long edges of the rectangular base. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first long sidewall extends at an angle greater than ninety degrees relative to the rectangular base, wherein the upper edge of the first long sidewall extends outward beyond the associated long edge of the rectangular base.

[0055] Similarly, in some embodiments, the second long sidewall of container 102 also extends upward from the rectangular base, is trapezoidal in shape, and includes parallel lower and upper edges and angled first and second side edges. In such embodiments, the upper edge of the second long sidewall is longer than the lower edge of the second long sidewall. In such embodiments, the lower edge of the second long sidewall has a length approximately equal to the length of the rectangular base. In some embodiments, rounded edges connect the lower edge of the second long sidewall to one of the associated long edges of the rectangular base. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second long sidewall extends at an angle greater than ninety degrees relative to the rectangular base, wherein the upper edge of the second long sidewall extends outward beyond the associated long edge of the rectangular base.

[0056] In this type of implementation, because the short and long sidewalls extend upwards from the rectangular base at an angle greater than ninety degrees, the open top of container 102 is larger than the rectangular base of the container. Therefore, multiple containers can be nested together by inserting the rectangular base of the first container through the open top of the second container.

[0057] In some embodiments, container 102 is designed to have two isolated chambers when in the assembled position: a first chamber 160 and a second chamber 162 separated by a partition 104. Container 102 also includes a lower protrusion 164 extending toward the interior of container 102, a first side protrusion 166 extending toward the interior of container 102 on a first long side of container 102, and a second side protrusion 168 extending toward the interior of container 102 on a second long side of container 102. Protrusions 164, 166, and 168 are each designed to be detachably coupled to partition 104 when partition 104 is installed in container 102. In these embodiments, the first chamber 160 is defined within container 102 as a space between a rectangular bottom and an open top, between a first short sidewall and partition 104, and between a first long sidewall and a second long sidewall. Similarly, the second chamber 162 is defined within the container 102 as the space between the rectangular bottom and the open top, between the second short sidewall and the partition 104, and between the first long sidewall and the second long sidewall.

[0058] In some embodiments, container 102 is injection molded during manufacturing to have one or more features inserted into each of the first and second long sides. For example, as... Figure 6 As shown, the first long side of container 102 may include a first feature 172 in the portion of the first long sidewall forming the edge of the first chamber and a second feature 176 in the portion of the first long sidewall forming the edge of the second chamber. Similarly, the second long side of container 102 may include a first feature 174 in the portion of the second long sidewall forming the edge of the first chamber and a second feature 178 in the portion of the second long sidewall forming the edge of the second chamber. Figure 6 As shown, features 172, 174, 176 and 178 may be observation windows for observing the interior of container 102, or as described below, they may be wire mesh panels inserted into container 102.

[0059] In some embodiments, the wire mesh panel inserted into container 102 may be the same as the wire mesh panel inserted into lid 106. In other embodiments, the wire mesh panel of container 102 may differ from the wire mesh panel inserted into lid 106, for example, in terms of size, shape, material, or aperture density. The wire mesh is included to allow airflow while preventing accidental escape of laboratory animals through the long sides of container 102. In such embodiments, the wire mesh may be covered by a layer of engineered polypropylene filter material. This layer of engineered polypropylene filter material may be positioned on the outside of the wire mesh and attached to the outside of container 102 (particularly by ultrasonic welding). Furthermore, in such embodiments, a layer of coarse filter material may be fixed to the outside of the polypropylene filter to pre-filter larger particles. Additionally, in some embodiments, each of the first and second long sidewalls may include these filtration mechanisms, as described below.

[0060] Figure 7A partition 104, inserted into container 102, is illustrated, effectively creating a first chamber 160 and a second chamber 162 within the interior of container 102. The partition 104 extends between a first long sidewall and a second long sidewall of container 102, wherein a lower groove 154 along its lower edge is received by a lower protrusion 164 in the bottom of container 102, a first side groove 156 along the first side is received by a first side protrusion 166 of container 102, and a second side groove 158 along the second side is received by a second side protrusion 168 of container 102. Accordingly, protrusions 164, 166, and 168 can each be shaped to fit into grooves 154, 156, and 158, respectively. When inserted into container 102, the partition 104 creates the first chamber 160 and the second chamber 162, into which a first experimental animal can be placed and a second experimental animal can be placed.

[0061] Figure 8 An example filtration mechanism 200 is illustrated, which can be used anywhere on device 100 where filtration is required, such as in container 102 or cover 106. For example, in some embodiments, the filtration mechanism 200 may cover a wire mesh panel mounted in device 100, which allows airflow while preventing accidental escape of laboratory animals from device 100. In such embodiments, the wire mesh may be covered by a layer of engineered polypropylene filter 202. This engineered polypropylene filter 202 may be positioned on the outside of the wire mesh and attached (particularly by ultrasonic welding) to the outside of container 102. Furthermore, the polypropylene filter 202 may include a plurality of air passages 204 that allow airflow into and out of device 100. In such embodiments, a coarse filter 206 may be fixed on the outside of the polypropylene filter 202 to pre-filter larger particles. Furthermore, the coarse filter 206 may cover a portion of the plurality of airflow passages 204 to prevent contaminants from entering device 100. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the engineered polypropylene filter 202 and / or the coarse filter 206 can be removed from the wire mesh, wherein the wire mesh can remain exposed or can be covered by another filtration system.

[0062] Figure 9A and 9B A series of devices are illustrated, which cooperate with similar devices to transport large numbers of laboratory animals using multiple devices. Each device may include any component of the aforementioned device 100.

[0063] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 9A As shown, devices 310, 330 and 350 are stacked vertically relative to each other, devices 320, 340 and 360 are stacked vertically relative to each other, and devices 310 and 320, 330 and 340 and 350 and 360 are stacked side by side with each other.

[0064] To enable the stacking of multiple devices, the stacking protrusion 314 of device 310 (which may include any component of the stacking protrusion 128 of device 100) is arranged to receive the rectangular base of the container 330 stacked on top. Thus, as Figure 9A As shown, the stacking protrusions 314 of device 310 can be used to support the second device 330, wherein the rectangular base of device 330 rests on the horizontal support wall of the stacking protrusions 314 of the first device 310. As a result, the rectangular base of device 330 is spaced apart from the cover of device 310, thereby allowing airflow through the cover of device 310. In addition, the vertical support wall of the stacking protrusions 314 of device 310 prevents the device 330 from moving in the horizontal direction (i.e., parallel to the rectangular base of device 330).

[0065] To enable adjacent devices to be arranged side-by-side or connected end-to-end, the mating protrusion 312 on the cover of device 310 can interlock with the corresponding mating protrusion 322 of the adjacent device 320. For example, as Figure 9A As shown, the mating protrusion 312 of device 310 interlocks with the mating protrusion 122 of adjacent device 320. In some embodiments, when interlocked, a first portion of the second protrusion of each mating protrusion 312 is received in the space between the first and second protrusions of the corresponding mating protrusion 322. Accordingly, it should be noted that when placed side-by-side and end-to-end, the sidewalls of the containers of adjacent devices are separated from each other so that airflow can enter and exit each device through the sidewalls of the containers.

[0066] Similarly, such as Figure 9B As shown, the first row of devices includes devices 350 and 360 arranged side-by-side. The second row of devices also includes devices 355 and 365 arranged side-by-side, with devices 350 and 355 facing each other end-to-end, and devices 360 and 365 facing each other end-to-end. Furthermore, device 375 is vertically stacked on top of device 355, and device 385 is vertically stacked on top of device 365, with devices 375 and 385 arranged side-by-side.

[0067] To enable the stacking of multiple devices, stacking protrusions for each device are used as described above. To enable side-by-side or end-to-end connections between adjacent devices, mating protrusions are used as described above.

[0068] Figure 10A-10G Various aspects of another example device used for transporting laboratory animals are illustrated. Figures 10A-10B The illustration shows a device 400, which includes a container 402, a partition 404, and a cover 406. The device 400 also includes a first cover plate 408 receivable in a portion of the cover 406 and a second cover plate 410 receivable in different portions of the cover 406. The device 400 may also include any components described in the aforementioned device 100.

[0069] In some embodiments, device 400 further includes a push-in tamper-evident seal 416, which is secured to the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410. Additionally, in some embodiments, device 400 includes a plurality of tear-off tape seals 418 surrounding the edge of the cover 406, such as… Figure 10B As shown at the corner of the middle cover 406. Figure 10B It shows Figure 10A Exploded view of the components Figure 10C-10G It is illustrated Figures 10A-10B The various components of the device 400 are shown in the drawing.

[0070] For example, Figure 10C The illustration depicts a lid 406 of device 400 according to an example embodiment. Lid 406 is connectable to container 402, closing the open top of container 402. In some embodiments, lid 406 is connectable to container 402 at a top edge surrounding the periphery of the open top of container 406. Furthermore, in some embodiments, lid 406 is made of a material capable of sterilization without causing damaging deformation to lid 406. For example, in some embodiments, lid 406 is molded from a thermoplastic material such as polypropylene. In other embodiments, the entire lid 406 is constructed of transparent polypropylene to allow inspection of the contents. In some embodiments, lid 406 is approximately two millimeters thick.

[0071] The cover 406 includes a first portal 412 extending through the cover 406 and configured to be located above a first chamber of the container 402. In some embodiments, the first portal 412 is an entry point through which a first laboratory animal passes during insertion into and removal from the container 402. The cover 406 also includes a second portal 414 extending through the cover 406 and configured to be located above a second chamber of the container 402. In some embodiments, the second portal 414 is an entry point through which a second laboratory animal passes during insertion into and removal from the container 402. In some embodiments, such as Figure 10C As shown, both the first portal 412 and the second portal 414 can be circular. Other shapes of the first portal 412 and the second portal 414 are also possible.

[0072] like Figure 10CAs shown, in some embodiments, the cover 406 further includes one or more stacking protrusions 428. These one or more stacking protrusions 428 facilitate the stacking of one device on top of another, with the container of the upper device being received in one or more stacking protrusions 428 of the device 400. Similarly, when stacked, the container 402 of the device 400 is received in one or more stacking protrusions of the lower device. In such embodiments, the cover 406 of the device 400 may include four stacking protrusions 428, each located near a rounded corner of the cover 406. In some embodiments, each stacking protrusion 428 includes an arcuate outer wall extending upward from the upper surface of the cover 406 and gradually narrowing inward as it extends upward from the cover 406. In such embodiments, each stacking protrusion 428 also includes an arcuate inner wall extending upward from the cover 406 to a height approximately half the distance of the arcuate outer wall and gradually narrowing outward as it extends upward from the cover 406. Furthermore, in such embodiments, a horizontal support wall extends outward from the inner arcuate wall toward the outer arcuate wall in a direction generally parallel to the lid 406, and a vertical support wall connects the horizontal support wall to the upper support wall of each stacking protrusion 428. In some embodiments, each stacking protrusion 428 opens from the bottom surface of the lid 406. Thus, when viewed from below, each stacking protrusion 428 forms a pocket on the bottom surface of the lid 406. The pockets formed by the stacking protrusions 428 allow multiple lid pieces to be nested together for storage or other transport purposes. When nested, a stacking protrusion 428 from one lid 406 is received in a pocket formed by the stacking protrusions of another lid piece. The nesting capability of the lid 406 allows for the simultaneous sterilization of multiple lid pieces, preferably when nested. The stacking protrusions 428 can be as follows: Figure 9A and 9B The usage is as shown.

[0073] In some embodiments, the cover 406 further includes one or more mating protrusions 430. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of mating protrusions 430 extends outward from the outside of the cover 406. For example, in some embodiments, each mating protrusion 430 includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein the first protrusion of each mating protrusion 430 extends outward by a first distance and the second protrusion of the mating protrusion 430 includes a stepped profile having a first portion extending outward by a second distance (the second distance being greater than the first distance), and a second portion on the opposite side of the first portion relative to the first protrusion and extending outward by the first distance. In such embodiments, the second protrusion of the mating protrusion 430 is spaced apart from the first protrusion. Figure 10CAs shown, each long side of the cover 406 may include more than one mating protrusion 430. In other embodiments, each short side of the cover 406 may also include one or more mating protrusions 430. The mating protrusions 430 may be as follows: Figure 9A and 9B The illustrations and the uses described with reference to them.

[0074] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 10D As shown, each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 further includes a corresponding first tamper-evident press-fit sealing hole 432 and a second tamper-evident press-fit sealing hole 434, which can be configured to align when both the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 are in the fully locked position. In these embodiments, the tamper-evident seal 416 can be inserted into both the first tamper-evident press-fit sealing hole 432 and the second tamper-evident press-fit sealing hole 434. In such embodiments, the tamper-evident seal 416 consists of two one-way fastening barbs that are respectively inserted into the first tamper-evident press-fit sealing hole 432 and the second tamper-evident press-fit sealing hole 434, and has a breakable bar connecting the two one-way fastening barbs. When the first cover plate 408, the second cover plate 410, or both are rotated, the breakable bar of the tamper-evident seal 416 breaks, indicating that the device 400 has been tampered with.

[0075] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a plurality of tear-off tamper-evident seals 418 in the lid 406 also indicate whether the device 400 has been tampered with. The plurality of tear-off tamper-evident seals 418 are molded into the lid 406, each of which is a thinned track or contour in the lid 406 to guide tearing and a hand gripping feature at a corner for user pull to remove. When the plurality of tear-off tamper-evident seals 418 remain in place and the lid 406 is placed on the container 402, engaging hooks on each of the plurality of tear-off tamper-evident seals 418 grip the container 402, preventing the lid 406 from being removed from the container 402 until the plurality of tear-off tamper-evident seals 418 are torn off. In such embodiments, the lid 406 itself may also include smaller engaging hooks so that it can be snapped back onto the container 402 for reuse.

[0076] In some embodiments, each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 further includes a serrated edge 436 configured to provide a surface easy for the user to grip. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a lever 438 is provided over each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410. The lever can be used to assist in opening and closing each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410. This functionality is made possible because the lever 438 can be adapted to hold and / or retain tools, tweezers, pens, etc., each of which the user can use as a lever to more easily rotate the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410.

[0077] Furthermore, in some embodiments, each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 includes an indicator arrow 440. The indicator arrow may point in the direction of a symbol indicating whether each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 is in a locked, unlocked, or neutral state. In such embodiments, the cover 406 itself may be printed with a neutral position symbol 442, an unlocked position symbol 444, and a locked position symbol 446. In such embodiments, when the cover 406 is not used for transport and storage, each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 should be rotated, with the arrow 440 on each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 pointing to the neutral position symbol 442. In some embodiments, when each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 is in the neutral position, small bias features may be included on the bottom surface of each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 to prevent unintended rotation of each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 from the neutral position to the unlocked position.

[0078] Furthermore, in such embodiments, in order to release each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 from the corresponding first portal 412 and second portal 414, each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 should be rotated such that the arrow 440 on each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 points to the unlock position symbol 444. In order to secure each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 in the corresponding first portal 412 and second portal 414, each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 should be rotated such that the arrow 440 on each of the first cover plate 408 and the second cover plate 410 points to the lock position symbol 444.

[0079] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 10CAs illustrated, the lid 406 also includes a protrusion 450 extending beneath the lid. When the lid 406 is attached to the top edge of the container 402, the protrusion 450 extends into the interior of the container 402. The protrusion 450 is designed to be detachably attached to the partition 404 when the partition 404 is installed into the container 402. In some embodiments, one or more reinforcing ribs 452 extend across the protrusion 450 over the top of the lid 406 to help reduce warping and / or deformation of the lid 406.

[0080] like Figure 10C As illustrated, the cover 406 includes a first filter receiver 424 and a second filter receiver 426. The first filter receiver 424 and the second filter receiver 426 each constitute a designated area within the cover 406. In some embodiments, each of the first filter receiver 424 and the second filter receiver 426 includes an opening in the cover 406 having boundary protrusions configured to receive a first filter mechanism 420 and a second filter mechanism, respectively. In some embodiments, the first filter mechanism 420 includes a first plurality of air passages that allow airflow through the first filter receiver 424 into and out of the container 402. In such embodiments, the first filter mechanism 420 covers the first filter receiver 424 in the cover 406 and prevents contaminants from entering the container 402. Similarly, the second filter mechanism 422 includes a second plurality of air passages that allow airflow through the second filter receiver 426 into and out of the container 402. The second filter mechanism 420 covers the second filter receiver 426 in the cover 406 and prevents contaminants from entering the container 402.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first filtration unit 420 and the second filtration unit 422 each include a wire mesh panel 460 and a filter element 462, such as Figure 10D As shown in the diagram, the wire mesh panel 460 can be configured to be inserted into a corresponding one of the first filter receiver 424 and the second filter receiver 426. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the wire mesh panel 460 may have 4 to 8 openings per inch (e.g., 6 openings per inch), a wire diameter between 0.015 inches and 0.050 inches (e.g., 0.028 inches), and be made of stainless steel, coated low-carbon steel, etc. Additionally, in some embodiments, the wire mesh panel 460 has a double crimp construction.

[0082] In some embodiments, after the wire mesh panel 460 is placed in a designated portion of the cover 406, a filter element 462 is placed over the wire mesh panel 460 and attached to a boundary protrusion of a corresponding one of the first filter receiving portion 424 or the second filter receiving portion 424. The filter element 462 may include a plastic filter frame and filter material welded to the plastic filter frame. In such embodiments, the plastic filter frame of the filter element 462 includes a plurality of through holes. When the filter element 462 covers the wire mesh panel 460, a hot riveting post 464 can be inserted into the through holes of the filter element 462. In these embodiments, a hot riveting tool can be lowered onto the hot riveting post 464 and secure the filter element 462 to the cover 406 via the boundary protrusion of a corresponding one of the first filter receiving portion 424 and the second filter receiving portion 424.

[0083] In this embodiment, the wire mesh panel 460 is loosely held between the filter element 462 and the cover 406 and in a corresponding one of the first filter receiving portion 424 or the second filter receiving portion 424. Because it is loosely held, the wire mesh panel 460 is spaced apart from the filter material of the filter element 462. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the filter element 462 and the wire mesh panel 460 can also be removed from the remainder of the device 400 by removing the heat-sealed studs 464.

[0084] Figure 10E The filter mechanisms 472 and 474 shown in the figure and Figure 10F The filter mechanisms 476 and 478 shown may also include the aforementioned components. Filter mechanisms 472 and 474 are located on opposite sides of the device 400 as filter mechanisms 476 and 478. Figure 10G The side profile of device 400 is shown.

[0085] The specific arrangements shown in the accompanying drawings should not be considered limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments may include more or fewer elements than those shown in the given drawings. Furthermore, some illustrated elements may be combined or omitted. Additionally, example embodiments may include elements not shown in the drawings.

[0086] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and not intended to be limiting; the true scope is indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for transporting laboratory animals, the device comprising: A container defining a chamber, the container comprising a bottom and at least four sidewalls, wherein the chamber can be divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by placing a partition in the chamber, and wherein the container comprises an open top, the open top comprising a top edge surrounding a periphery of the open top; A lid detachably attached to the top edge of the container, the lid comprising: A first portal, wherein the first portal extends through the cover and is configured to be located above the first chamber. A second portal, wherein the second portal extends through the cover and is configured to be located above the second chamber. A first filter mechanism disposed in the cover, wherein the first filter mechanism includes a first plurality of air channels configured to allow airflow into and out of the first chamber, and a first filter device is coupled to the cover above the first plurality of air channels. A second filter mechanism is disposed in the cover, wherein the second filter mechanism includes a second plurality of air channels configured to allow airflow into and out of the second chamber, and a second filter device is coupled to the cover above the second plurality of air channels; A first cover plate detachably connected to the first portal, wherein the first cover plate is rotatable relative to the first portal; as well as A second cover plate detachably connected to the second portal, wherein the second cover plate is rotatable relative to the second portal.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the partition is detachably coupled to the container, and wherein the partition, when inserted into the chamber, separates the first chamber from the second chamber.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wire mesh panel is inserted into at least a portion of the container.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the wire mesh panel is removably covered by a layer of engineered filter, wherein the engineered filter comprises a plurality of air channels.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of air passages of the engineered polypropylene filter layer is covered by a coarse filter.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein at least four sidewalls include a first long sidewall extending upward from the bottom, a second long sidewall extending upward from the bottom, a first short sidewall extending upward from the bottom, and a second short sidewall extending upward from the bottom.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the bottom further includes a lower protrusion extending toward the interior of the container, wherein the first long sidewall further includes a first side protrusion extending toward the interior of the container, wherein the second long sidewall further includes a second side protrusion extending toward the interior of the container, and wherein the lower protrusion, the first side protrusion, and the second side protrusion are configured to be detachably connected to the partition.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the partition includes an upper groove along an upper edge of the partition, a lower groove along a lower edge of the partition, a first side groove along a first side of the partition, and a second side groove along a second side of the partition.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the upper groove, the lower groove, the first side groove, and the second side groove each comprise a semi-circular indentation in the partition.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the lower groove is configured to receive a lower protrusion of the container, wherein the first side groove is configured to receive a first side protrusion, and wherein the second side groove is configured to receive a second side protrusion.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a sterilizable material.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a wire mesh panel is inserted into at least a portion of the cover, and wherein the wire mesh panel is covered by a layer of engineered filter having a plurality of air channels.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of air passages of the engineered polypropylene filter layer is removably covered by a coarse filter.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cover includes a protrusion extending toward the interior of the container when the cover is attached to the top edge of the container, and wherein the protrusion is configured to be detachably attached to the partition.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of cover fastening mechanisms, and wherein the plurality of cover fastening mechanisms are configured to interact with a plurality of container fastening mechanisms.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of stacked protrusions configured to support a second device located above the device in a stacked relationship.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of mating protrusions extending outwardly from the cover, wherein the plurality of mating protrusions are configured to interlock with a second mating protrusion on a second cover of the second device.

18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first cover plate is rotatable relative to the first portal between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein the second cover plate is rotatable relative to the second portal between a locked position and an unlocked position.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first cover further comprises a first bottom surface and a first engagement mechanism coupled to the first bottom surface, wherein the first engagement mechanism is configured to interact with a first receiving mechanism coupled to the first portal when the first cover is in a locked position, and wherein the second cover further comprises a second bottom surface and a second engagement mechanism coupled to the second bottom surface, wherein the second engagement mechanism is configured to interact with a second receiving mechanism coupled to the second portal when the second cover is in a locked position.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first or second cover plate comprises a transparent material.

21. The device of claim 1, wherein the first or second cover plate further comprises a handle and includes a hole at an outer end near the handle.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the fastening mechanism is configured to receive via a hole in the handle of the first cover plate and a hole in the handle of the second cover plate.

23. A device for transporting laboratory animals, the device comprising: A container defining a chamber, the container comprising a bottom and at least four sidewalls, wherein the chamber can be divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by placing a partition in the chamber, and wherein the container comprises an open top, the open top comprising a top edge surrounding a periphery of the open top; A lid detachably attached to the top edge of the container, the lid comprising: A first portal, wherein the first portal extends through the cover and is configured to be located above the first chamber; A second portal, wherein the second portal extends through the cover and is configured to be located above the second chamber; The first filter receiving section allows airflow to enter and exit the first chamber; A first filter mechanism is disposed in the first filter receiving section, wherein the first filter mechanism includes a first wire mesh panel inserted into the first filter receiving section, and a first filter element connected to the cover above the first filter receiving section; The second filter receiving section allows airflow to enter and exit the second chamber; A second filter mechanism is disposed in the cover, wherein the second filter mechanism includes a second wire mesh panel inserted into the second filter receiving part, and a second filter element connected to the cover above the second filter receiving part; A first cover plate detachably connected to the first portal, wherein the first cover plate is rotatable relative to the first portal; as well as A second cover plate detachably connected to the second portal, wherein the second cover plate is rotatable relative to the second portal.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the partition is detachably coupled to the container, and wherein the partition, when inserted into the chamber, separates the first chamber from the second chamber.

25. The device of claim 23, wherein at least four sidewalls include a first long sidewall extending upward from the bottom, a second long sidewall extending upward from the bottom, a first short sidewall extending upward from the bottom, and a second short sidewall extending upward from the bottom.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the bottom further includes a lower protrusion extending toward the interior of the container, wherein the first long sidewall further includes a first side protrusion extending toward the interior of the container, wherein the second long sidewall further includes a second side protrusion extending toward the interior of the container, and wherein the lower protrusion, the first side protrusion, and the second side protrusion are configured to be detachably connected to the partition.

27. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the partition includes an upper groove along an upper edge of the partition, a lower groove along a lower edge of the partition, a first side groove along a first side of the partition, and a second side groove along a second side of the partition.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the upper groove, the lower groove, the first side groove, and the second side groove each comprise a semi-circular indentation in the partition.

29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the lower groove is configured to receive a lower protrusion of the container, wherein the first side groove is configured to receive a first side protrusion, and wherein the second side groove is configured to receive a second side protrusion.

30. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the cover includes a protrusion extending toward the interior of the container when the cover is attached to the top edge of the container, and wherein the protrusion is configured to be detachably attached to the partition.

31. The device of claim 23, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of stacked protrusions configured to support a second device located above the device in a stacked relationship.

32. The device of claim 23, wherein the cover further comprises a plurality of mating protrusions extending outwardly from the cover, wherein the plurality of mating protrusions are configured to interlock with a second mating protrusion on a second cover of the second device.

33. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the first cover plate is rotatable relative to the first portal between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein the second cover plate is rotatable relative to the second portal between a locked position and an unlocked position.

34. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the first cover plate further comprises a serrated edge, and wherein the second cover plate further comprises a serrated edge.

35. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the first cover plate further comprises an assist rod, and wherein the second cover plate further comprises an assist rod.

36. The device of claim 23, further comprising a tamper-proof seal.

37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the tamper-proof seal is configured to be inserted into a first tamper-proof press-fit sealing hole in the first cover plate and a second tamper-proof press-fit sealing hole in the second cover plate to further secure the first cover plate and the second cover plate to the apparatus.

38. The device according to claim 23, further comprising a plurality of tear-off tape seals.

39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein each of the plurality of tear-off seals is molded to the cover, and wherein the plurality of tear-off seals further secure the cover to the container.

40. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the first filter receiving portion includes a first channel located in the cover and a first boundary protrusion surrounding the first channel, and wherein the second filter receiving portion includes a second channel located in the cover and a second boundary protrusion surrounding the second channel.

41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the first filter element is coupled to the cover above the first filter receiving portion via the first boundary protrusion of the first filter element, and wherein the second filter element is coupled to the cover above the second filter receiving portion via the second boundary protrusion of the second filter element.

42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the first filter element comprises a first filter material coupled to a first filter frame having a first plurality of through holes, and wherein the second filter element comprises a second filter material coupled to a second filter frame having a second plurality of through holes.

43. The apparatus of claim 42, wherein the hot riveting post is disposed in the first plurality of through holes and the second plurality of through holes, and wherein the hot riveting post secures the first filter element to the first filter receiving portion and secures the second filter element to the second filter receiving portion.

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