Devices for opening a container and methods thereof

Abstract

Described herein are devices and methods for removing caps from bottles and vials. The devices can include locking mechanisms, teeth for crimping caps, especially metal caps, and balancing tips that balance out the force exerted when the locking mechanisms are closed. The methods can include placing the devices on a cap attached to a bottle, pushing down so that the teeth of the devices surround the cap, locking the locking mechanism such that the teeth indent the cap, and removing the devices along with the caps from the bottles or vials.

Description

DEVICES FOR OPENING A CONTAINER AND METHODS THEREOFCROSS-REFERENCE

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

[0002] Various liquids can be stored and shipped while being contained in containers such as medication bottles or vials and alcohol bottles. To avoid spillage, these containers may be tightly closed before, during, and after shipment. These containers may be tightly closed by caps including metal, plastic, rubber, and other substances that make it difficult to open the containers. Over 194 billion plastic pill bottles are shipped annually, along with over 20 billion glass vials containing metal and rubber caps, and over 30 billion alcohol bottles.

[0003] Various medications (e.g., liquid medications) can be stored and shipped while being contained in a container (e.g., a vial), which container can be sealed with a stopper (e.g., a rubber stopper) and further a hard enclosure (e.g., a metal enclosure) around at least a portion of the rubber stopper and another portion of the vial (e.g., glass neck portion of the vial). Propofol is an example of such liquid medication. Propofol can be a frequently diverted medication within hospitals, ASCs, and procedure rooms. Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic used for procedural sedation, during monitored anesthesia care, or as an induction agent for general anesthesia. It may be administered as a bolus or an infusion, or some combination of the two.SUMMARY

[0004] Provided herein is a device for opening a receptacle. The device can comprise a central section comprising two or more internal-facing protrusions. The device can comprise at least one locking mechanism coupled to the central section. The locking mechanism may be configured to lock the two or more internal-facing protrusions around a cap of the receptacle such that the two or more internal -facing protrusions indent the cap. The device can comprise a tip comprising a handle. The tip can be coupled to the central section and can be located opposite the at least one locking mechanism.

[0005] In some embodiments, the device comprises an unlocked state and a locked state. In some embodiments, a circumference of the central section is smaller in the locked state than in the unlocked state. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism comprises at least one internal-facing protrusion. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism comprises at least two internal-facing protrusions. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism has a radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanismcomprises a deployant clasp or a lever lock. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism comprises a living hinge.

[0006] In some embodiments, the central section comprises an engagement feature. In some embodiments, the engagement feature is shaped in a circle or ellipse. In some embodiments, a radius of curvature of the engagement feature substantially matches a radius of curvature of the at least one locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the two or more internal-facing protrusions are located in the engagement feature. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism is located in the engagement feature when the device is in a locked state. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a locking recess in the engagement feature. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism is located in the locking recess when the device is in a locked state. In some embodiments, the engagement feature comprises at least one circumference comprising two or more internal -facing protrusions. In some embodiments, the engagement feature comprises at least three circumferences comprising two or more internalfacing protrusions. In some embodiments, each of the at least three circumferences has a different diameter. In some embodiments, the each of the at least three circumferences are configured to fit a different sized receptacle. In some embodiments, the two or more internalfacing protrusions comprise two or more internal-facing protrusions on the each of the at least three circumferences, wherein an increase in diameter across each of the at least three circumferences corresponds to an increase in width of the two or more internal-facing protrusions on the each of the at least three circumferences. In some embodiments, at least two circumferences of the at least three circumferences are concentric. In some embodiments, the at least three circumferences are not concentric.

[0007] In some cases, the tip comprises a tension release section. In some cases, an open space in the tension release section increases in diameter in response to locking of the at least one locking mechanism. In some cases, the two or more internal-facing protrusions comprise from four to eighteen internal-facing protrusions. In some cases, the device comprises a unibody. In some cases, the device further comprises a scannable code or written code. In some cases, the tip comprises a lever. In some cases, the at least one locking mechanism is ribbed. In some cases, the device comprises an injection-molded polypropylene.

[0008] Described herein is a method for disposing a leftover medication or drug. The method can comprise fitting a cap of a receptacle holding the leftover medication or drug into a device as described herein. The method can comprise locking the device onto the cap into a locked state via the at least one locking mechanism. The method can comprise applying force onto the cap, such that the two or more internal-facing protrusions indent the cap. The method can compriselifting the receptacle opener away from the receptacle while maintaining the locked state. The method can comprise disposing of the leftover medication or drug.

[0009] In some cases, locking the device comprises decreasing a circumference of the central section. In some cases, locking comprises inserting the at least one locking mechanism into the central section. In some cases, locking comprises locking at least one inward-facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the central section. In some cases, the method further comprises a locking recess in the central section. In some cases, locking comprises locking the at least one inward-facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the locking recess. In some cases, locking comprises releasing tension imparted by locking the device. In some cases, releasing tension comprises increasing the diameter of an open space of the device opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking of the at least one locking mechanism.

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

[0011] In some cases, disposing comprises neutralizing the leftover medication or drug. In some cases, disposing comprises scanning a scannable code on i) the device, ii) the leftover medication or drug, or iii) both, to track disposal of the leftover medication or drug.

[0012] Provided herein is a system comprising a device as described herein. The system can comprise a receptacle. In some embodiments, the receptacle comprises a bottle, vial, can, or jar. In some embodiments, the receptacle holds a medication or drug. In some embodiments, the receptacle holds a food or beverage. In some embodiments, the receptacle holds a liquid, pill, powder, capsule, caplet, tablet, or any combination thereof.

[0013] Described herein is a method for opening a receptacle. The method can comprise

[0014] The method can comprise fitting a cap of the receptacle into a receptacle opener. In some embodiments, the receptacle opener comprises two or more internal -facing protrusions and at least one locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the two or more internal-facing protrusions are disposed in a central section of the receptacle opener. In some embodiments, the at least one locking mechanism is coupled to the central section. The method can comprise locking the receptacle opener onto the cap into a locked state from an unlocked state via the at least one locking mechanism. The method can comprise indenting the cap with the two or more internalfacing protrusions by applying force onto the cap via the locking mechanism. The method can comprise lifting the receptacle opener away from the receptacle while maintaining the locked state.

[0015] In some embodiments, locking the receptacle opener comprises decreasing a circumference of the central section. In some embodiments, the method further comprises an engagement feature. In some embodiments, locking comprises inserting the at least one locking mechanism into the engagement feature. In some embodiments, locking comprises locking at least one inward-facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the engagement feature. In some embodiments, the method further comprises a locking recess in the engagement feature. In some embodiments, locking comprises locking the at least one inward-facing protrusion on the at least one locking mechanism into the engagement feature. In some embodiments, the engagement feature comprises at least three circumferences comprising two or more internal-facing protrusions. In some embodiments, each of the at least three circumferences has a different diameter. In some embodiments, fitting a cap comprises fitting a cap into a circumference of the receptacle opener that is closest in size of the at least three circumferences. In some embodiments, locking comprises releasing tension imparted by locking the receptacle opener. In some embodiments, releasing tension comprises increasing the diameter of an open space of the receptacle opener opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking of the at least one locking mechanism. In some embodiments, locking is irreversible. In some embodiments, locking is reversible.

[0016] In some embodiments, applying force comprises applying force radially inward, downward, or both. In some embodiments, force is applied radially inward, downward, or both i) manually by a user, ii) by the at least one locking mechanism, or iii) by both i) and ii).

[0017] Described herein is system for disposing a leftover medication or drug. The system can comprise a scanner.

[0018] The system can comprise a decapper device for opening a receptacle. The decapper device can comprise a central section comprising two or more internal-facing protrusions. The decapper device can comprise at least one locking mechanism coupled to the central section. In some cases, the locking mechanism is configured to lock the two or more internal-facing protrusions around a cap of the receptacle such that the two or more internal-facing protrusions indent the cap. The decapper device can comprise a tip comprising a handle. In some cases, the tip is coupled to the central section and is located opposite the at least one locking mechanism. The system can comprise a waste disposal receptacle.

[0019] In some cases, the waste disposal receptacle comprises a medical management system. In some cases, the decapper device comprises a scannable code. In some cases, the scanner is configured to scan the scannable code. In some cases, the waste disposal receptacle is configured to compare the scanned scannable code against a scanned scannable code on the receptacle.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure.Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0021] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The novel features of the present disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the present disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also “Figure” and “FIG.” herein), of which:

[0023] FIGS. 1A-1E depict perspective views (1 A, ID, IE), a bottom view (IB), and a magnified bottom view (1C) of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0024] FIGS. 2A-2B depict top (2A), bottom (2B), and expanded bottom (2C) views of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0025] FIGS. 3A-3E depict perspective top (3A), perspective bottom (3B), cross-sectional side (3C-3D), and cross-sectional perspective views (3E) of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0026] FIGS. 4A-4B depict bottom views of an open (4A) and closed (4B) configuration of an example cap remover device with a small cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0027] FIGS. 5A-5B depict bottom views of an open (5A) and closed (5B) configuration of an example cap remover device with a medium cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0028] FIGS. 6A-6B depict bottom views of an open (6A) and closed (6B) configuration of an example cap remover device with a large cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0029] FIGS. 7A-7C depict bottom perspective views of closed configurations of an example cap remover device on a small (7 A), medium (7B), and large (7C) cap and bottle in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0030] FIG. 7D depicts a successfully decapped cap using devices and methods in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0031] FIGS. 8A-8C depict top perspective views of open configurations of an example cap remover device on a small (8A), medium (8B), and large (8C) cap and bottle in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0032] FIGS. 9A-9F depict a perspective view of an example method of removing a cap using an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0033] FIGS. 10A-10C depict bottom views of closed configurations of an example cap remover device on a small (10A), medium (10B), and large (10C) cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0034] FIGS. 11-12 depict example cap remover device concepts as described herein.

[0035] FIGS. 13A-13B depict perspective (13A) and top (13B) views of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0036] FIGS. 14A-14C depict perspective (14A) and top (14B-14C) views of an alternate example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0037] FIGS. 15A-15D depict perspective views (15A-15B) and exploded out perspective views of sub-parts (15C-15D) of another alternate example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0038] FIGS. 16A-16B depict side views of an open (16A) and closed (16B) configuration of the device of FIGS. 15A-15D in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0039] FIGS. 17A-17B depict top (17A) and perspective (17B) views of a first version of the prototype of FIGS. 14A-14C in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0040] FIGS. 18A-18C depict perspective views of a second version of the prototype of FIGS. 14A-14C in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0041] FIGS. 19A-19B depict perspective views of a third version of the prototype of FIGS. 14A-14C in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0042] FIG. 20 depicts a perspective side view of a prototype example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0043] FIGS. 21A-21D depict perspective views (21A, 21C-21D) and a cross-section side view (21B) of a second prototype example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0044] FIG. 22 depicts a perspective extended view of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0045] FIG. 23A depicts an example cap remover device sitting on a cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0046] FIG. 23B depicts cap distortions when an example cap remover device is improperly positioned on a cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0047] FIG. 24 depicts a top view of variations of prototypes in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0048] FIG. 25A depicts a top view of an example cap remover device in accordance with embodiments described herein.

[0049] FIGS. 25B-25D depict a strength load test of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein.

[0050] FIGS. 26-28 depict experimental data of cap removal success rate in accordance with example embodiments described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] There is no current adequate system or device that allows a medical practitioner to safely and / or easily remove circular metal enclosure and / or rubber stopper from a vial comprising a liquid medication therein. The present disclosure can be a simple, inexpensive, disposable, and easily stored method of safely and easily removing toppers from vials. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein can be applicable to multiple sizes of vials and bottles. Furthermore, there is also no current adequate measuring system in place to calculate a leftover medication (e.g., Propofol) after procedures in the operating room (OR) or visual accountability around the medication containers being emptied in the OR. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein can likewise assist with these calculations by limiting a user’s ability to recap leftovers, among other ways.

[0052] Accordingly, various aspects of the present disclosure provide devices, systems, and methods for readily opening existing medication containers (e.g., Propofol bottles) and / or measuring their leftover contents (e.g., waste contents). These devices, systems, and methods can be used for medication containers for liquids, pills, powders, capsules, caplets, tablets, or other medications that may come in a bottle and / or vial-like container. The liquids, pills, powders, capsules, caplets, or tablets can be pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical. In addition to bottleand vials, the devices described herein can be used to remove caps from any other containers with a lid, cover, or cap, and which contains contents.

[0053] In some embodiments, devices, systems, and methods provided herein can be utilized to open (e.g., readily open) a medication container (e.g., existing Propofol bottles) and, optionally, measure its leftover contents (e.g., waste). In some cases, such device (or system) may be referred to as a “medication opener” for its utility in opening a medication container, e.g., in removing a covering (e.g., a metal cap) of the medication container. In some cases, the device (or system) may be referred to as a “medication opener measuring system” or “MOMS” for its utility in opening the medication container and measuring at least a portion of the medication (e.g., leftover waste) from the medication container. In some cases, the device (or system) may be referred to as a “Waste-Out” device (or system) for its utility in opening the medication container and measuring at least a portion of the medication (e.g., leftover waste) from the medication container. In some cases, the device (or system) may be referred to as “ExitSafe.”

[0054] In some embodiments, the medication in the medication container as provided herein can be a solid drug, a semi-solid drug, a liquid drug, a powder drug, a gel drug, etc. Non-limiting examples of the liquid drug can include Propofol (e.g., Diprivan) and other chemotherapeutic drugs.

[0055] In some embodiments, the device (or system) as provided herein can comprise a unit that couples to the medication container (e.g., a bottleneck portion or the cap portion of the medication container), to assist in opening the medication container. In some embodiments, the device (or system) can comprise an additional unit that can be utilized to remove a covering (e.g., a metal cap) from the medication container. In some embodiments, the device (or system) can be designed to remove a circular metal enclosure and / or rubber stopper.

[0056] In some embodiments, the device (or system) can comprise an additional unit for measuring an amount of medication in and / or out of the medication container (e.g., leftover medication taken out of the medication container. In some cases, the unit and the additional unit can be coupled to one another. Alternatively, the unit and the additional unit may be operatively coupled to one another in their utilities but not physically coupled to one another.

[0057] The device (or system) can be for rapid removal of cap that can help expedite the removal of leftover medication amounts within the vial and / or the measuring of the leftover drug or liquid, inside or outside the pharmaceutical industry. In some cases, the cap of leftover medication may first be removed and then measured. In some cases, the measuring can be done by a medication management system. In some cases, the medication management system may be physically or operatively coupled to the devices described herein for rapid removal of caps.

[0058] A single device as provided herein (e.g., a cap remover) can be configured to remove a specific medication container cap size. A single device as provided herein (e.g., a cap remover) can be configured to remove various medication cap sizes (e.g., from various bottleneck sizes). Accordingly, different devices can be designed and provided, each specific for specific medication container cap / bottl eneck size.

[0059] The ergonomic design of the device (or system) can be to accommodate many different variables. For example, the variables can include hand strength, hand size, dexterity, or other variables.

[0060] Any of the devices (or systems) as provided herein can be of various materials such as, for example, aluminum, soft metal, copper, rubber, cork, glass, etc., or any combination thereof. The device (or system) can be of various shapes and sizes which include, circular, square, oval, rectangular, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0061] In some cases, the device (or system) can lock onto the various bottleneck sizes by applying pressure from the end user. The pressure can be downward, sideways, upwards, or any combination thereof. Once locked in, with the unique design, another pressure can be applied to pull the cap off. It can be a sequential or nonsequential motion to release the combination of metal and / or rubber stopper. The unique design of the 'lock-on’ system can resemble less than, greater than, or equal to about 3 rows of teeth, notches, serrations, prongs, hooks, fasteners, clamps, clasps, grips, etc., or any combination thereof.

[0062] In some cases, there may be possible unique identification codes that correspond to specific wasting events indicated on that specific opener prior to opening. A user can also create an additional code generated upon opening.

[0063] In some cases, a thin flange, rim, lip, or edge made of a soft plastic or any other material may self-attach to a cup which may or may not have calibrated measurements. These calibrations can either be printed or digitally attached.

[0064] The device (or system) may or may not be attached to a robotic gripper equipped with advanced sensors and machine rhythm learning algorithms. For example, a robotic gripper may assist a user with low grip strength or hand injury in opening the bottle upon the user’s command.

[0065] The device (or system) can be capable of working with machine learning, deep learning, and / or artificial intelligence algorithms and / or methods to identify the type of bottle, type of cap, and location of cap and the right amount of force to open it. For example, serialized barcodes or visual codes can be utilized for verification and / or identification of the device, the medicationcontainer, the medical practitioner using the device, and / or the patient who is a recipient of the medication in the medication container.

[0066] The device (or system) can comprise a tab that locks in place by the end user. Such locking mechanism can be reversible or irreversible.

[0067] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein can be for a single use or for multiple uses. In some cases, the device as provided herein can be a disposable, single-use device. Single-use can be beneficial for security of the medication bottle or vial and / or its contents. It can also be helpful in tracking a wasting transaction, for example with a medical management system. It can also help track the operator of the device during a wasting transaction by ensuring that a non-authorized user is unable to use the device in a follow-on use. In some cases, making the device single-use can also have patient or subject safety benefits by preventing cross-contamination and decreasing accidental confusion of medications or medication amounts. For example, if a patient or subject and / or a user (e.g., nurse or other medical professional) is uncertain whether a medication has already been administered, a disposed single-use device can indicate that the medication has already likely been withdrawn and / or administered. The singleuse device can also provide a unique identifier, for example a serialized identifier. This can be used alone, or in tandem with, unique identifiers on medication bottles and vials. A user or subject can match the vial identifier with the device identifier as a safeguard that the correct medication is being opened.

[0068] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein may be utilized without a medication measuring device (e.g., a container such as a cup). Thus, the device may be used for (e.g., solely for) removing a covering (e.g., a metal cap) of a medication container. For example, the device can be utilized just for opening a medication container (e.g., a Propofol vial) to draw at least a portion of the medication out of the container and discard any excess medication left in the container, without any further need for measurement of the excess medication.

[0069] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein may be utilized with a medication measuring device (e.g., a container such as a cup). The medication measuring device can be utilized to measure an amount of medication that is drawn out of the medication container and / or an amount of medication that is left in the medication container after certain amount of the medication has been retrieved (e.g., drawn out) for use. In some cases, the device and the medication measuring device can be provided in a single package or in separate packages. In some cases, the device and the medication measuring device can be coupled to each other. For example, the device and the medication measuring device can be provided as separate parts thatcan be modularly coupled to one another via one or more coupling mechanisms. Alternatively, the device and the medication measuring device can be provided as a coupled, singular unit.

[0070] In some embodiments, the device (e.g., opener) can lock (or irreversibly secure) the metal cap and the stopper to the device, e.g., to permit substantially a single, one-time use of the device. Alternatively, the device may be utilized multiple times to open multiple medication containers.

[0071] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein may be a standalone device (e.g., not requiring any additional system or component for uses, other than a medication container to be handled). In some embodiments, the device as provided herein may be utilized to control access to and wasting of the medication in the medication vial while being present near or adjacent to a medication management system (also referred to as a Verified Institutional Environment for Wasting or “VIEW”) that is capable of monitoring and / or keeping track (e.g., via one or more sensors such as cameras) of healthcare practitioners (e.g., doctors, nurses, etc.) while they are using or discarding medications. In some cases, the medication management system can be a mobile system (e.g., movable), and, in some examples may be referred to as a cart (e.g., a VIEW cart).

[0072] In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods as provided herein can be used to handle drug containers and uses thereof in operating rooms (OR), step down units (SDUs), intensive care units (ICU), emergency rooms (ER), Recovery Room or POST-ANESTHESIA CARE UNIT (PACU), other clinical locations within hospitals where a medication container needs to be opened and / or discarded (e.g., a procedural suite such as an endoscopy suite, cardiac catheterization lab, interventional radiology lab, etc.), infusion preparation areas, and / or pharmacy (e.g., central pharmacy).

[0073] In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods as provided herein can be used as a part of a robotic device which can be used to remove caps from medication containers in clinical environments (e.g., operating rooms). The devices can also be used in other areas in the hospital where medications are used and robots may exist already. In some cases, the devices can be added to areas in the hospital where there are not currently robots but there will be. The devices, systems, and methods can also be used in in non-clinical locations, such as medication compounding laboratories or medication fill pharmacies, where medication containers may be opened to remove the contents for wasting or other functions, such as separating out or counting out a number of pills or tablets to be sold.

[0074] In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods as provided herein can be used open chemical and / or medical bottles and / or vials that are not mass-produced in a productionfacility for use in common facilities such as operating rooms (OR), step down units (SDUs), intensive care units (ICU), emergency rooms (ER), Recovery Room or POST-ANESTHESIA CARE UNIT (PACU), or other clinical locations. For example, this device can be used clinically or in research laboratories where a pharmacist or scientist can compound or prepare the contents of a sealed, capped vial and the devices and methods disclosed herein can be used to uncap the vial. As such, these devices can be used for medication vials produced by pharmaceutical or biologies manufacturers or other healthcare applications that are not mass-produced.

[0075] In some cases, the devices, systems, and methods as provided herein can be used open bottles and / or vials outside of the medical, chemical, pharmaceutical, research, or biological industries. For example, the devices can be used in the food and drink industries to open bottles (non-alcoholic and alcoholic), and foods in glass cans with metal caps. In addition to opening the bottles or cans, the device can be used to track and / or trace their location (e.g., their final destination where they are opened). This can be used to acquire popularity data from certain regions or be used by and for restaurants to streamline ordering after a certain number of a given bottle or can type has been uncapped. This would occur with a machine similar to the medication management system and a scanner, the two of which working together could track and trace the product. Alternatively, or in addition, the devices herein themselves could have implanted ways of providing feedback once they are used.

[0076] Additional details of the medication management system and uses thereof are provided in International Application No. PCT / US2020 / 026434 (entitled “Systems and methods for medication management”) and International Application No. PCT / US2022 / 015595 (entitled “Systems and methods for tracking items”), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0077] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein can be coupled to (or come in contact with the cap of the medication container at an angle (or an approach angle). In some cases, the angle may be substantially parallel to a plane of the cap (or be substantially vertical to a vertical axis of the medication container). In some cases, the angle may be substantially vertical to a plane of the cap (or be substantially parallel to a vertical axis of the medication container). In some cases, the angle may be between about 0 degrees and about 90 degrees relative to the vertical axis of the medication container.

[0078] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein can be locked upon coupling to a medication container (e.g., a neck portion or the cap portion of the medication container). Such locking mechanism may be reversible. Alternatively, such locking mechanism may beirreversible. In some cases, the device can comprise multiple locking positions, e.g., to accommodate secured fastening to different size medication containers.

[0079] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein can be a single piece. Alternatively, the device can be a plurality of pieces that operate in unison (e.g., mechanically coupled to one another) in order to be utilized for the methods as provided herein.

[0080] In some embodiments, the device may have a spacing between at least two portions of the device, which spacing is configured to initially surround the end portion of the medication container comprising a protective cap (e.g., metal cap) to be removed. Once the end portion of the medication is disposed at or adjacent to the spacing, the at least two portions of the device can be configured to move relative to one another (e.g., in a direction toward one another) to reducing a size of the spacing, until the spacing is sufficiently small that the at least two portions of the device are in direct contact (e.g., touching) and / or pressing onto surfaces of the end portion of the medication container (e.g., touching and pressing onto side and / or top of the metal cap). The reduction in the size of the spacing as provided herein may be at least or up to about 5%, at least or up to about 10%, at least or up to about 20%, at least or up to about 30%, at least or up to about 40%, at least or up to about 50%, at least or up to about 60%, at least or up to about 70%, at least or up to about 80%, at least or up to about 90%, at least or up to about 95%, or at least or up to about 99%, relative to the initial size of the spacing when the end portion of the medication is disposed at or adjacent to the spacing.

[0081] In some embodiments, a degree of the reduction in the size of the spacing of the device as provided herein can dependent on the size of the metal cap of the medication container. For example, the spacing may be reduced more to fit onto a metal cap of a smaller size medication vial (e.g., 13 mm neck diameter), while the spacing may be reduced less to fit onto a metal cap of a larger size medication vial (e.g., 32 mm neck diameter).

[0082] In some embodiments, an inner surface of the device that generates a contact with a portion of the medication container to be removed (e.g., the metal cap of the medication vial) can comprise one or more surface features configured to generate the contact with the portion of the medication container, such that a strength of the contact is sufficient to withstand a force required to open and remove (e.g., via a leveraging mechanism) the portion of the medication container, such as a metal cap of the medication container. In some cases, the surface feature can comprise one or more regions with adhesives. In some cases, the surface feature can comprise one or more protrusions (e.g., tooth or teeth) to make an indentation of the portion of the medication container. The one or more protrusions can comprise at least or up to about 1 protrusion, at least or up to about 2 protrusions, at least or up to about 3 protrusions, at least orup to about 4 protrusions, at least or up to about 5 protrusions, at least or up to about 6 protrusions, at least or up to about 7 protrusions, at least or up to about 8 protrusions, at least or up to about 9 protrusions, at least or up to about 10 protrusions, etc. A protrusion as provided herein can comprise a cross-sectional shape, such as circular, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or any partial shape or combination of shapes thereof.

[0083] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein can generate a contact (e.g., a physical contact) with a side portion of the metal cap of the medication container, thereby anchoring onto the metal cap. Upon the contact can yield in indentation of the metal cap (e.g., that of a side portion of the metal cap) by at least or up to about 0.1 millimeter (mm), at least or up to about 0.2 mm, at least or up to about 0.3 mm, at least or up to about 0.4 mm, at least or up to about 0.5 mm, at least or up to about 0.6 mm, at least or up to about 0.7 mm, at least or up to about 0.8 mm, at least or up to about 0.9 mm, at least or up to about 1 mm, at least or up to about 1.1 mm, at least or up to about 1.2 mm, at least or up to about 1.3 mm, at least or up to about 1.4 mm, at least or up to about 1.5 mm, at least or up to about 1.6 mm, at least or up to about 1.7 mm, at least or up to about 1.8 mm, at least or up to about 1.9 mm, at least or up to about 2 mm, at least or up to about 2.1 mm, at least or up to about 2.2 mm, at least or up to about 2.3 mm, at least or up to about 2.4 mm, at least or up to about 2.5 mm, at least or up to about 2.6 mm, at least or up to about 2.7 mm, at least or up to about 2.8 mm, at least or up to about 2.9 mm, at least or up to about 3 mm, at least or up to about 3.1 mm, at least or up to about 3.2 mm, at least or up to about 3.3 mm, at least or up to about 3.4 mm, at least or up to about 3.5 mm, at least or up to about 3.5 mm, at least or up to about 3.7 mm, at least or up to about 3.8 mm, at least or up to about 3.9 mm, at least or up to about 4 mm, at least or up to about 4.5 mm, at least or up to about 5 mm, at least or up to about 6 mm, at least or up to about 7 mm, at least or up to about 8 mm, at least or up to about 9 mm, or at least or up to about 10 mm.

[0084] In some embodiments, the medication container (e.g., a vial) can comprise a rubber stopper to block the orifice of the container and a metal cap to cover at least a portion of the rubber stopper. The device as provided herein can be used to selectively remove the metal cap with leaving the rubber stopper intact in its original place. Alternatively, the device as provided herein can be used to remove (e.g., substantially at the same time by a single removing step) both the metal cap and the rubber stopper. For example, removal (e.g., rapid removal) of both the metal cap and the rubber stopper can help expedite the measuring of the leftover medication (e.g., in hospitals or any facility associated with the pharmaceutical industry). In some cases, the coupling between the device and the medication container can be controlled (e.g., adjusted) to choose whether to remove just the metal cap or both the metal cap and the rubber stopper.

[0085] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein may be referred to as a decapper.

[0086] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein may be a single piece (e.g., a single piece plastic molding) with one or more living hinges. A living hinge as provided herein may refer to a thin and / or flexible section of a molded unit that connects at least two segments, which hinge operates by controlled bending of the thin / flexible section rather than by use of an additional mechanical hinge structure (e.g., a pin hinge). In some embodiments, closure of the hinge (e.g., during operation of the device to couple to the medication container) may or may not trigger appearance or formation of a scannable code as provided herein.

[0087] In some embodiments, the device (e.g., a single device) can accommodate different metal caps of different sizes (e.g., at least or up to about 2 different sizes, at least or up to about 3 different sizes, at least or up to about 4 different sizes, at least or up to about 5 different sizes, etc.) The device can comprise a plurality of grooves (e.g., each grove having one or more protrusions or “tooth / teeth” to grab onto the metal cap) with varying dimensions that would match different sized metal caps. The device can comprise layered “teeth” or “grips” to couple to or hold onto the medication container. The plurality of grooves can be disposed adjacent to each other (e.g., on the same plane but in series or in parallel). Alternatively, the plurality of grooves can be vertically stacked on top of each other (e.g., to save space). The plurality of grooves that are stacked on top of each other can be concentrically aligned (e.g., having a common center) or non-concentrically aligned (e.g., not having a common center). For example, two or more grooves can be stacked on top of one another such that they overlap at a point along their circumference. The non-concentrically aligned grooves may prevent (or reduce the chance of) a metal cap of a small size from slipping (or moving or falling) to another groove of a bigger diameter.

[0088] In some embodiments, the device as disclosed herein can be transparent, semitransparent, translucent, or substantially non-transparent. In some cases, the device can be transparent or semi-transparent to visualize alignment of the opening of the device to the metal cap of the medication container. This can be useful especially when the device comprises multiple openings (or multiple grooves adjacent to one another or stacked on top of each other) to fit various sizes of the medication containers. In some cases, the device can be translucent with a desired marking (e.g., letters, symbols, numbers, logos, etc.).

[0089] In some embodiments, the device as disclosed herein may comprise (e.g., on the device or on a packaging that contains the device) a scannable code (e.g., a barcode or a reconstructable visual code) to be scanned, thereby digitally connecting information about the device or the medication device coupled thereto to a database. Such database can be in digital communicationwith, for example, a medical practitioner. In some cases, the scannable code can be scanned to track one or more activities associated with the use of the device. For example, both the scannable code of the device can be scanned prior to, simultaneously with, or subsequent to scanning of a scannable code of the medication container to be opened, thereby to track the use of the device for opening the medication container. Alternatively, or in addition to, the scannable code of the device can be scanned prior to, simultaneously with, or subsequent to scanning of a scannable code of an identifier (e.g., a barcode on a user ID) of a medical practitioner (e.g., a doctor, a nurse, a pharmacist, etc.) or that of a patient, thereby to keep track of the individual and / or time associated with the opening of the medication container via the device and the uses of the medication thereafter.

[0090] In some embodiments, the scannable code can be pre-printed and / or etched on the device (e.g., during or post manufacturing of the device). In some embodiments, the scannable code can be a reconstructable visual code that is segmented into a plurality of pieces, such that use of the device to open a medication container can trigger the plurality of pieces to come together to form a scannable visual code.

[0091] Additional details of the scannable code and uses thereof are provided in International Application No. PCT / US2020 / 019122 (entitled “Reconstructed segmented codes and methods of using the same”) and International Application No. PCT / US2020 / 029588 (entitled “Drug security systems and methods”), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0092] In some embodiments, the device as disclosed herein may be comprised of a single type of material (e.g., a single type of polymer). Alternatively, the device may be comprised of multiple types of materials.

[0093] In some embodiments, the device as provided herein can be utilized for healthcare (e.g., medical) applications. Alternatively, the device can be utilized for non-healthcare applications. For example, the device can be utilized at compounding pharmacies and specialty pharmacies where medications in vials are created, but need to be emptied or “wasted” prior to dispensing or other use. In another example, the device can be utilized at research laboratories (e.g., academic, government, public, private) where liquid medications are created, tested, and where remaining contents of vials created in those laboratories need to be safely removed. The device can be utilized for non-medication applications, e.g., to open a container carrying a non-medication cargo (e.g., non-medicinal chemicals).Devices

[0094] Provided herein are cap remover devices. In some cases, the cap remover devices described herein can have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more concentric rows of teeth. In some cases, the cap remover devices described herein can have from 2 to 8 teeth per row. In some cases, the cap remover devices described herein can have greater than 8 teeth per row. In some cases, the total number of teeth in a cap remover device is 6. In some cases, the total number of teeth in a cap remover device is 18. In some cases, the rows with wider diameters can correspond to wider caps. As such, one cap remover device can be used for multiple different cap sizes. In some cases, the cap sizes are 12 mm diameter, 20 mm diameter, and 32 mm diameter. In some cases, the cap sizes can be from about 4 mm to about 40 mm in diameter. In some cases, the cap sizes can be from about 4 mm to 8 mm, about 4 mm to 12 mm, about 4 mm to 16 mm, about 4 mm to 20 mm, about 4 mm to 24 mm, about 4 mm to 28 mm, about 4 mm to 32 mm, about 4 mm to 36 mm, about 4 mm to 40 mm, about 8 mm to 12 mm, about 8 mm to 16 mm, about 8 mm to 20 mm, about 8 mm to 24 mm, about 8 mm to 28 mm, about 8 mm to 32 mm, about 8 mm to 36 mm, about 8 mm to 40 mm, about 12 mm to 16 mm, about 12 mm to 20 mm, about 12 mm to 24 mm, about 12 mm to 28 mm, about 12 mm to 32 mm, about 12 mm to 36 mm, about 12 mm to 40 mm, about 16 mm to 20 mm, about 16 mm to 24 mm, about 16 mm to 28 mm, about 16 mm to 32 mm, about 16 mm to 36 mm, about 16 mm to 40 mm, about 20 mm to 24 mm, about 20 mm to 28 mm, about 20 mm to 32 mm, about 20 mm to 36 mm, about 20 mm to 40 mm, about 24 mm to 28 mm, about 24 mm to 32 mm, about 24 mm to 36 mm, about 24 mm to 40 mm, about 28 mm to 32 mm, about 28 mm to 36 mm, about 28 mm to 40 mm, about 32 mm to 36 mm, about 32 mm to 40 mm, or from about 36 mm to 40 mm in diameter. In some cases, the cap sizes can be less than about 4 mm, less than about 6 mm, less than about 8 mm, less than about 10 mm, less than about 12 mm, less than about 14 mm, less than about 16 mm, less than about18 mm, less than about 20 mm, less than about 22 mm, less than about 24 mm, less than about26 mm, less than about 28 mm, less than about 30 mm, less than about 32 mm, less than about34 mm, less than about 36 mm, less than about 38 mm, or less than about 40 mm. In some cases, the cap sizes can be greater than about 4 mm, greater than about 6 mm, greater than about 8 mm, greater than about 10 mm, greater than about 12 mm, greater than about 14 mm, greater than about 16 mm, greater than about 18 mm, greater than about 20 mm, greater than about 22 mm, greater than about 24 mm, greater than about 26 mm, greater than about 28 mm, greater than about 30 mm, greater than about 32 mm, greater than about 34 mm, greater than about 36 mm, greater than about 38 mm, or greater than about 40 mm. The vial and / or bottles sizes can of various sizes. In some cases, the vial and / or bottles sizes are larger with larger caps, and smaller with smaller caps. In some cases, the vial and / or bottles sizes may be large with small caps, orsmall with large caps. One device can accommodate any of these variations because of the multiple set of teeth to accommodate different cap sizes.

[0095] FIGS. 1A-1E depict a cap remover device 100 in accordance with embodiments described herein. FIG. 1A depicts a perspective view of cap remover device 100 comprising locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, locking recess 106, engagement section 108, and tip 110. FIG. IB depicts a bottom view cap remover device 100 comprising locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, locking recess 106, engagement section 108, tip 110, teeth 112, and ribs 114.

[0096] Cap remover device 100 can have a double wall box structure. The double wall box structure can be in the engagement section 108. In some cases, the device can comprise flexible materials. In some cases, the device can comprise polypropylene. In some cases, the different caps may resist the cap remover device in various ways. For example, a small cap (e.g., a 12 mm cap) may distort the cap remover device such that the distal ends are facing downward while the center is raised, as shown in FIGS. 23A-23B. In some embodiments, a large cap (e.g., a 32 mm cap) may distort the cap remover device such that the distal ends are facing upward while the center is lowered as shown in FIG. 23B. In some embodiments, a medium-sized cap (e.g., a 20 mm cap) may or may not distort the cap remover device. In some cases, these distortion forces can be avoided by putting the device onto a cap squarely to interact with the teeth.

[0097] In some cases, the locking mechanism can comprise various types of locking mechanisms. The locking mechanism can include, but are not limited to, lever locks, snap locks, buckles (e.g., buckle lock and / or hook buckle), Velcro, and / or clasps. Clasps can include, but are not limited to, deployant clasps, fold-over push button clasps, double-lock security clasps, sliding clasps, butterfly clasps, or other clasps. In some cases, a deployant clasp may provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, a double snap lock may provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, the locking mechanism may be curved and thus have a radius of curvature. The locking mechanism can be used to help the device remain connected to the removed cap after removal.

[0098] In some cases, the locking mechanisms employs locking teeth 104. Locking teeth 104 can comprise a single or double snap lock. Accordingly, locking recess 106 can comprise a single or double snap lock recess. The approximately diagonal angle of the recess, as shown in FIG. IB, can comprise a lead-in feature that leads the locking arms into the locking recess 106.

[0099] In some cases, engagement section 108 encompasses recess 106. Engagement section 108 can be used to engage both the locking feature or mechanism 102 and / or the caps to be inserted into the device. The engagement section 108 may engage caps by biting “teeth” into the caps,thereby clamping down and indenting the caps when the device 100 is pushed on a bottle with a cap.

[0100] As further discussed below in FIG. ID, the tip can act as a counterbalance to the closing of the lock. The tip can act as a counterbalance by widening the central opening when the rear opening is narrowed by the closure.

[0101] In some cases, the device 100 comprises ribs 114. In some cases, the device 100 does not comprise ribs 114. Ribs 114 can be helpful for grip of the device once closed and / or for pressing on the locking mechanism to close the device, as the ribbing can provide friction on the fingers.

[0102] FIG. 1C depicts a magnified view of FIG. IB, or a magnified bottom view of FIG. 1A, comprising locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, ribs 114, and notches 116. In some cases, different size caps engage the device 100 at different stages or areas of closure. This can cause the compliant flexible hinges to bend differently for each cap size to still allow the locking mechanism to end in its closure position in the recess. Hinge bending can be promoted by minimizing the hinge width. This can be shown by the arrows on pointing to each other on either side of the notches. Hinge bending can be promoted by adding notches 116 to the hinges. Minor misalignment of the locking mechanism can be corrected by shaping the locking feature with the curved lead-in into the recess.

[0103] FIG. ID depicts a perspective view of cap remover device 100 comprising locking teeth 104 inserted into the locking recess, engagement section 108, hinges 116, and tip 110. FIG. IE depicts a perspective view of part of the cap remover device 100 comprising locking teeth 104 inserted into the locking recess. The darkened area where 104 points to where the locking teeth insert into the recess can show how the recess, relative to the height of the walls of the device 100, is lower (e.g., recessed). This can help prevent a user from easily unhooking the snap fit. The corresponding surface on the lower locking tooth is similarly recessed. In devices comprising two locking teeth, having one tooth on either side of the device can prevent a user from unhooking the locking mechanism by lifting in one direction.

[0104] In comparing the tip shown in FIG. ID against the tip shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, it can be noted that the central open canal may be wider in FIG. ID than in FIGS. 1A-1B. In contrast, the area surrounded by notches 116 in FIGS. 1B-1C may be smaller in FIG. ID than in FIGS. 1B- 1C. As such, the overall circumference of engagement section may be smaller when the device is locked. Tight locking of the device in one end of the device may result in a release of pressure or force on the opposite end. This can either be intentionally done, such as by a flexible space or canal that is configured to open when the device locks, or it can be done unintentionally, such that the locking force ruptures the other side of the device and breaks it.

[0105] FIG. ID further shows that the locking mechanism 102, in its locked form, overlays the circumference of the engagement section 108. As such, the radius of curvature of the locking mechanism 102 is substantially similar, or substantially matches, the radius of curvature of the at least part of the engagement section 108. In some cases, this is in part because the locking mechanism 102 can comprise a bendable living hinge that can adjust its radius of curvature to the radius of curvature of the engagement section that it overlays.

[0106] FIGS. 2A-2C depict a blueprint of cap remover device 100 in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 2A depicts a top view cap remover device 100 comprising locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, locking recess 106, engagement section 108, tip 110, teeth 112, and ribs 114. In some cases, the device 100 may comprise a brand symbol and / or company name on tip 110 on one or both sides of the device. FIG. 2B depicts a bottom view cap remover device 100 comprising locking mechanism 102, locking teeth 104, locking recess 106, engagement section 108, tip 110, teeth 112, and ribs 114. FIG. 2C depicts a magnified view of tip 110. In some cases, the device 100 may comprise a barcode and / or written code on tip 110 on one or both sides of the device. In some embodiments, the barcode and / or written code can be pre-printed and / or etched on the device (e.g., during or post manufacturing of the device). The written code can comprise only numbers, only letters, only special characters, or a combination of one or more types of writing.

[0107] In some cases, the barcode can be read by a scanner. In some cases, the scanner can be a specialized scanner for matching medications to patients, subjects, and / or users. In some cases, the scanner can come separately from or along with a medication management system such as the VIEW cart as discussed herein. In some cases, a barcode can help to track which medications should be disposed versus which are being disposed into a medication management system such as the VIEW cart. In some cases, the barcode on the device may need to match a barcode on a medication. In some embodiments, the barcode or scannable code can be a reconstructable visual code that is segmented into a plurality of pieces, such that use of the device to open a medication container can trigger the plurality of pieces to come together to form a scannable visual code. In some cases, a scanner may be linked, coupled to, or connected to the devices disclosed herein. In some cases, there may be a blocking mechanism that prevents locking of the locking mechanism into the engagement section unless the barcode of the devices disclosed herein match the barcode of a medication slated for disposal, waste, administering, or opening for other purposes.

[0108] FIGS. 3A-3E depict cap remover device 200 in accordance with embodiments described herein. FIG 3A shows a perspective view of device 200 comprising a locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, ribs 214, stiff member218, hinge 220, and living hinge 222. FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view from underneath device 200 comprising a locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, and floor stops 224. FIGS. 3C-3D show magnified cross-sectional views of device 200 comprising teeth 212. FIG. 3C shows that the distance between the cap location floor and the tooth crest for each cap size may be different. This distance can be optimized for each cap size to provide the deepest tooth deformation with the least force. Deepest tooth deformation with the least force can be a function of septum, or seal height. FIG. 3E shows a cross-sectional view of device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, and teeth 212. Although cap remover device 200 has a slightly different design than cap remover device 100, the functionality and parts can be similar.

[0109] In some cases, the locations for the multiple cap sizes may not be concentric. Cap center locations may be situated toward the main hinge located at the stiff member 218. Situating the cap centering toward the main hinge can be helpful to locate the 13mm cap floor (e.g., when the device is viewed from the bottom) in such a position the 13mm cap will not pass through its respective floor before clamping. The 13mm cap floor may also have at least one curved floor stop to facilitate this. The 13mm cap floor may have at least two curved floor stops to facilitate this. The floor stops can be configured not to touch when the device is clamped around any of the select caps. The floor stops can be seen in FIG. 3B and FIG. 6A.

[0110] Cap remover device 200 can have a double wall box structure. The double wall box structure can be in the engagement section 208. In some cases, the device can comprise flexible materials. In some cases, the device can comprise polypropylene. The device can comprise an injection-molded polypropylene unibody. In some cases, it may have compliant hinges to provide controlled deformation during deforming and gripping caps.[oni] In some cases, the different caps may resist the cap remover device in various ways. For example, a small cap (e.g., a 12 mm cap) may distort the cap remover device such that the distal ends are facing downward while the center is raised, as shown in FIGS. 23A-23B. In some embodiments, a large cap (e.g., a 32 mm cap) may distort the cap remover device such that the distal ends are facing upward while the center is lowered as shown in FIG. 23B. In some embodiments, a medium-sized cap (e.g., a 20 mm cap) may or may not distort the cap remover device. In some cases, these distortion forces can be avoided by putting the device onto a cap squarely to interact with the teeth.

[0112] In some cases, the locking mechanism can comprise various types of locking mechanisms. The locking mechanism can include, but are not limited to, snap locks, lever locks, buckles (e.g., buckle lock and / or hook buckle), Velcro, and / or clasps. Clasps can include, but arenot limited to, deployant clasps, fold-over push button clasps, double-lock security clasps, sliding clasps, butterfly clasps, or other clasps. In some cases, a deployant clasp may provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, a lever lock may provide additional support for the lock. In some cases, the locking mechanism may be curved and thus have a radius of curvature.

[0113] In some cases, the locking mechanisms employs locking teeth 204. Locking teeth 204 can comprise a single or double snap lock. Accordingly, locking recess 206 can comprise a single or double snap lock recess. The approximately diagonal angle of the recess can comprise a lead-in feature that leads the locking arms into the locking recess 206. The recess, relative to the height of the walls of the device 200, is lower (e.g., recessed). This can help prevent a user from easily unhooking the snap fit. The corresponding surface on the lower locking tooth is similarly recessed. In devices comprising two locking teeth, having one tooth on either side of the device can prevent a user from unhooking the locking mechanism by lifting in one direction.

[0114] In some cases, engagement section 208 encompasses recess 206. Engagement section 208 can be used to engage both the locking feature or mechanism 202 and / or the caps to be inserted into the device. The engagement section 208 may engage caps by biting “teeth” into the caps, thereby clamping down and indenting the caps when the device 200 is pushed on a bottle with a cap. In some cases, the two halves of the engagement section (e.g., separate down the middle along the axis of the tip), can comprise movable jaws molded at a set angle to provide locations to insert caps. The angle of the opening between the two halves of the engagement section 208 can reflect a molded angle.

[0115] The tip 210 can act as a counterbalance to the closing of the lock. The tip 210 can act as a counterbalance by widening the central opening when the rear opening is narrowed by the closure. Tight locking of the device in one end of the device may result in a release of pressure or force on the opposite end. This can either be intentionally done, such as by a flexible space or canal that is configured to open when the device locks, or it can be done unintentionally, such that the locking force ruptures the other side of the device and breaks it. In some cases, tip 210 can act as a handle for positioning the device of a bottle with a cap. By holding at the tip 210, the user’s view of the device and cap is unobstructed. Tip 210 can also be used as a lever to assist in removing the gripped and deformed cap from the bottle.

[0116] In some cases, different size caps engage the device 200 at different stages or areas of closure. This can cause the compliant flexible hinges to bend differently for each cap size to still allow the locking mechanism to end in its closure position in the recess. Hinge bending can be promoted by minimizing the hinge width. This can be shown by the arrows on pointing to eachother on either side of the notches. Hinge bending can be promoted by adding notches to the hinges. Minor misalignment of the locking mechanism can be corrected by shaping the locking feature with the curved lead-in into the recess.

[0117] The device 200 can comprise branding and / or company naming on one or both sides of the device. The device 200 can comprise a barcode and / or written code on one or more sides of the device.

[0118] In some cases, device 200 can comprise ribs 214. In some cases, for example when the engagement section is approximately circular, ribs 214 can be annular ribs. When the engagement section is not circular, the shape of the ribs can approximately follow the shape of the engagement section. Ribs 214 can provide stiffness to prevent cap holding feature from twisting during clamping.

[0119] Stiff member 218 may comprise a stiff flexible member. Member 218 can resist the jaws or teeth from exiting a planar structure when the device is clamped around a cap. Member 218 may be proximate to, but may not be in contact with, tip 210. In some cases, there may be a channel between member 218 and tip 210, just as there may be a channel between the two halves of tip 210.

[0120] Hinges 220 can comprise flexible hinge members. The flexible hinges 220 can allow for angular deflection. The hinges 220 can prevent twisting and misalignment of the locking teeth to mate with the locking recess.

[0121] Living hinge 222 can allow for a sharp bend when the locking mechanism is closed for the locking teeth to mate with the locking recess. A living hinge can comprise a hinge that is flexure-bearing. In some cases, for simplicity, this hinge may be referred to together with the other two hinges 220.

[0122] FIGS. 4A-4B depict cap remover device 200 with a small cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 4A shows a bottom view of an open cap remover device 200 with a small cap comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, hinges 216, and small cap 230. FIG. 4B shows a bottom view of a closed cap remover device 200 with a small cap comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, hinges 216, edges 226 and small cap 230. The differences between the two figures can show how the teeth 212 indent cap 230. The differences between the two figures can show how the locking mechanism 202 looking in its locked form. FIG. 4B further shows that the locking mechanism 202, in its locked form, overlays the circumference of the engagement section 208. As such, the radius of curvature of the locking mechanism 202 is substantially similar, orsubstantially matches, the radius of curvature of the at least part of the engagement section 208. In some cases, this is in part because the locking mechanism 202 can comprise a bendable living hinge that can adjust its radius of curvature to the radius of curvature of the engagement section that it overlays. The overall circumference of engagement section may be smaller when the device is locked because the size of the rear opening surrounded by notches may be smaller. The differences between the two figures can show how tip 210 widens its channel in response to a narrowing of the area between hinges 216. In some cases, a small cap can comprise about a 12 mm or about a 13 mm diameter cap. In some cases, a small cap can comprise a cap less than about 20 mm in diameter. In some cases, a small cap can comprise a cap less than about 10 mm in diameter.

[0123] In some cases, the edges 226 of the newly-formed channel where the space between the hinges used to be may not be parallel when the device is closed. The device can close past the parallel point to promote strong deformation and grip on the cap. In some cases, closing the device 200 past the parallel point for edges 226 can cause the cap’s skirt to be deformed in a mildly elliptical shape with the major axis along the channel. This can be also in line with the opened channel of the tip 210. Tip 210 can be used as a leverable handle. Removing the cap from the bottom using the leverable handle 210 can be made easier because the deformed cap’s major axis is slightly longer than the bottle’s next diameter.

[0124] FIGS. 5A-5B depict bottom views of an open (5A) and closed (5B) configuration of a cap remover device 200 with a medium cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 5A depicts device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, hinges 216, and medium cap 240. FIG. 5B depicts device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, hinges 216, edges 226 and medium cap 240. The parts and functionalities may be similar to FIGS. 4A-4B. In some cases, a medium cap can comprise a cap from about 12 mm to about 32 mm in diameter. In some cases, a medium cap can comprise a cap about 20 mm in diameter. In some cases, a medium cap can comprise a cap less than 20 mm in diameter or less than 30 mm in diameter. In some cases, a medium cap can comprise a cap greater than 20 mm in diameter or greater than 10 mm in diameter.

[0125] FIGS. 6A-6B depict bottom views of an open (6A) and closed (6B) configuration of a cap remover device 200 with a large cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 6A depicts device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, locking recess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, hinges 216, and large cap 250. FIG. 6B depicts device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202, locking teeth 204, lockingrecess 206, engagement section 208, tip 210, teeth 212, hinges 216, edges 226 and large cap 250. The parts and functionalities may be similar to FIGS. 4A-4B. In some cases, a large cap can comprise a cap from about 20 mm to about 40 mm in diameter. In some cases, a large cap can comprise a cap about 32 mm in diameter. In some cases, a large cap can comprise a cap less than 30 mm in diameter or less than 40 mm in diameter. In some cases, a large cap can comprise a cap greater than 20 mm in diameter or greater than 30 mm in diameter.

[0126] FIGS. 7A-7C depict bottom perspective views of closed configurations of cap remover device 200 in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 7A depicts cap remover device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202 and tip 210 on small cap 230. FIG. 7B depicts cap remover device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202 and tip 210 on medium cap 240. FIG. 7C depicts cap remover device 200 comprising locking mechanism 202 and tip 210 on large cap 250.

[0127] In some cases, the force to deform the cap with the teeth may vary. In some cases, the force to deform the cap may increase as the size of the cap increases. In some cases, the force to deform a small cap (e.g., about 13 mm in diameter) may be from about 40 N to about 70 N. In some cases, the force to deform a small cap may be about 59 N. In some cases, the force to deform a large cap (e.g., about 32 mm in diameter) may be from about 100 N to about 140 N. In some cases, the force to deform a large cap may be about 125 N.

[0128] FIG. 7D depicts a successfully decapped cap using a device as described herein (e.g., cap remover device 100, 200, or other devices disclosed below). FIG. 7D shows an example deformation caused by the device’s teeth. It may be important for successful decapping that the cap’s top surface is not deformed by the device when the sides are deformed.

[0129] FIGS. 8A-8C depict top perspective views of open configurations of cap remover device 300 on a cap and bottle in accordance with example embodiments described herein. A single device having multiple grooves of varying diameters can be utilized to fit onto different sized medication containers (e.g., 13 mm, 20 mm, and 32 mm neck diameter, respectively) to remove the metal cap and / or the rubber seal. Cap remover device 300 may comprise locking mechanism 302, engagement section 308, tip 310, and hinges 316. FIG. 8A shows the device 300 around a small cap, FIG. 8B shows the device 300 around a medium cap, and FIG. 8C shows the device 300 around a large cap. The example medication shown is Propofol, but this device, as well as the other devices disclosed herein, can be used with any medication bottle or vial comprising a metal cap, plastic cap, rubber seal, or other types of caps. Although these figures show a simplified version of device 100 and 200, many of the parts and functionalities are similar.Methods

[0130] Provided here are methods of using a device for removing caps from bottles and / or vials. In some cases, the methods of use can comprise placing the devices described herein on a cap attached to a bottle, pushing down so that the teeth of the devices surround the cap, locking the locking mechanism such that the teeth indent the cap, and removing the devices along with the caps from the bottles or vials. Once the device is on the cap, force can be applied radially inward, downward, or both.

[0131] FIGS. 9A-9F depict sequential snapshots from a perspective view of a method of removing a cap using cap remover devices in accordance with embodiments described herein. FIG. 9A shows a device comprising locking mechanism 402, locking teeth 404, locking recess 406, engagement section 408, and tip 410. FIG. 9A shows the device being placed on a cap on a bottle, wherein the locking mechanism 402 is in the fully open position. FIG. 9B shows locking mechanism 402 beginning to close, engagement section 408, and tip 410. The arrow near the tip shows that as the locking mechanism 402 is beginning to close, the channel between the two parts of tip 410 is beginning to open. FIG. 9C shows tip 410 continuing to open to its full width as the locking mechanism is fully locked into the engagement section. This can occur while the cap is still on the bottle. FIGS. 9D-9E show the device being removed from the bottle and removing the cap with it. FIG. 9F shows the device holding the removed cap next to an opened bottle. This figure shows a bottom view of the device, and the arrows show how far the tip has opened to allow the locking of the device around the cap. The locking mechanism can be used to help the device remain connected to the removed cap after removal.

[0132] FIGS. 10A-10C depict bottom views of closed configurations of a cap remover device on holding a cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 10A holds a small cap that has been removed by the method shown in FIGS. 9A-9F and shows engagement section 408, tip 410, barcode 420, and written code 422. FIG. 10B holds a medium-sized cap that has been removed by the method shown in FIGS. 9A-9F and shows engagement section 408, tip 410, barcode 420, and written code 422. FIG. 10A holds a large cap that has been removed by the method shown in FIGS. 9A-9F and shows engagement section 408, tip 410, barcode 420, and written code 422.

[0133] In some cases, the device may comprise a barcode and / or written code on tip 410 on one or both sides of the device. In some embodiments, the barcode and / or written code can be preprinted and / or etched on the device (e.g., during or post manufacturing of the device). The written code can comprise only numbers, only letters, only special characters, or a combination of one or more types of writing.

[0134] In some cases, the barcode can be read by a scanner. In some cases, the scanner can be a specialized scanner for matching medications to patients, subjects, and / or users. In some cases, the scanner can come separately from or along with a medication management system such as the VIEW cart as discussed herein. In some cases, a barcode can help to track which medications should be disposed versus which are being disposed into a medication management system such as the VIEW cart. In some cases, the barcode on the device may need to match a barcode on a medication. In some embodiments, the barcode or scannable code can be a reconstructable visual code that is segmented into a plurality of pieces, such that use of the device to open a medication container can trigger the plurality of pieces to come together to form a scannable visual code. In some cases, a scanner may be linked, coupled to, or connected to the devices disclosed herein. In some cases, there may be a blocking mechanism that prevents locking of the locking mechanism into the engagement section unless the barcode of the devices disclosed herein match the barcode of a medication slated for disposal, waste, administering, or opening for other purposes.Definitions

[0135] Unless defined otherwise, all terms of art, notations and other technical and scientific terms or terminology used herein are intended to have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed subject matter pertains. In some cases, terms with commonly understood meanings are defined herein for clarity and / or for ready reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed to represent a substantial difference over what is generally understood in the art.

[0136] Throughout this application, various embodiments may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosure.Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0137] The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlap, sub-ranges, and combinations thereof. Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” “between,” and the like includes the number recited. Numbers preceded by a term such as “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” as used herein include the recited numbers, andalso represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. The term “about” or “approximately” may mean within an acceptable error range for the particular value, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, e.g., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. For example, “about” may mean within 1 or more than 1 standard deviation, per the practice in the art. Alternatively, “about” may mean a range of up to 20%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% of a given value. As used herein, the term “about” a number refers to that number plus or minus 10% of that number. The term “about” a range refers to that range minus 10% of its lowest value and plus 10% of its greatest value. Where particular values are described in the application and claims, unless otherwise stated the term “about” meaning within an acceptable error range for the particular value may be assumed.

[0138] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a sample” includes a plurality of samples, including mixtures thereof.

[0139] The terms “determining,” “measuring,” “evaluating,” “assessing,” “assaying,” and “analyzing” are often used interchangeably herein to refer to forms of measurement. The terms include determining if an element is present or not (for example, detection). These terms can include quantitative, qualitative or quantitative and qualitative determinations. Assessing can be relative or absolute. “Detecting the presence of’ can include determining the amount of something present in addition to determining whether it is present or absent depending on the context.

[0140] The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.Examples

[0141] The following examples are included for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.Example 1: Operating Room Post-Surgical Case - Bottle / Infusion

[0142] Provided herein is a non-limiting example of the use of the device as provided herein for handling a Propofol container in a surgery:1. Select Patient Case.2. Choose the Selection of the drug intended to be wasted.3. User Selected Propofol Botte / Infusion.4. Hold bottle of Propofol to the camera showing the amount.5. Open bottle of Propofol with the supplied opener- Please locate the EXITSAFE opener device used for any of the available bottle sizes (20, 50, and 100 ml) on the medical management system cart.6. Once opened, pour the remaining Propofol into the graduated cup which is either attached to the EXITSAFE opener device or supplied with the EXITSAFE opener device located on the medical management system cart.7. Hold graduated cup to the camera for accurate recording of the measured wasted amount of Propofol or confirming substantially complete use, emptying, and / or disposal of Propofol from the Propofol bottle.8. Enter amount of wasted Propofol.9. Discard the remaining Propofol waste into the correct receptacle as indicated on screen.10. Discard empty bottle of Propofol into the hazardous waste receptacle.11. Rinse ExitSafe opener device and replace on medical management system cart.Example 2: Device Development - Choosing a Rough Approximation

[0143] Extensive development and testing went into deciding on the device models disclosed above. The first step of device development was developing sketches and choosing three rough approximations to pursue.

[0144] FIGS. 11-12 depict cap remover device concept sketches.

[0145] FIGS. 13A-13B depict a first rough approximation of a cap remover device 500 comprising 502. This can be a 1 -piece compliant design. FIG. 13A shows a perspective view of the device 500 attached to a cap on a bottle, and FIG. 13B shows a top view of device 500 of the same.

[0146] FIGS. 14A-14C depict a second rough approximation of a cap remover device 600. FIG. 14A shows a perspective view of device 600 on a bottle comprising lock 602. FIG. 14B shows a top view of an open device 600 comprising lock 602. FIG. 14C shows a top view of a closed device 600 comprising lock 602. This can be a 1 -piece compliant design. Translucent polypropylene can be used in the device 600 to help view the cap that is being removed.

[0147] FIGS. 15A-15D depict a third rough approximation of a cap remover device. FIG. 15A shows a perspective view of device 700 on a bottle comprising cover 704. FIG. 15B shows aperspective view of device 700 on a bottle comprising spring-loaded jaws 702. FIG. 15B shows a transparent cover over the spring-loaded-jaws to better see the spring-loaded jaws 702. FIG. 15C shows a perspective view of the cover 704. FIG. 15D shows a perspective view of the spring-loaded jaws 702. A user can place the jaws 702 and cover 704 on a cap and push to crimp the cap. The user can pry off the cap, jaws 702, and cover 704.

[0148] FIGS. 16A-16B depict an open (16A) and closed (16B) configuration of the device of FIGS. 15A-15D. FIG. 16A shows jaws 702 and cover 704 in the open configuration of device 700. Specifically, there may be a gap in height between the location of the top of the jaws 702 and cover 704. There may also be an absence of crimping or significant force on the cap at this open stage. FIG. 16B shows jaws 702 and cover 704 in the closed configuration of device 700. Specifically, there may be a gap in height between the location of the bottom of the jaws 702 and cover 704, as the jaws 702 are brought upwards to lock the device and crimp the cap. As shown by the dotted circle, part of the jaws 702 imped inside, or crimp, the cap.Example 3: Developing the Chosen Rough Approximations

[0149] Extensive development and testing went into deciding on the device models disclosed above. The second step of device development was choosing two rough approximations, in this case the second shown in FIGS. 14A-14C and the third shown in FIGS 15A-15D and 16A-16B, and further iterating on them.

[0150] FIGS. 17A-17B depict a first version of a prototype based on FIGS. 14A-14C. FIG. 17A shows a top view of broken cap remover device 800 comprising locking mechanism 802. FIG. 17B shows a perspective view of cap remover device 800. The structure broke because it was too flexible. The half-circles could flex, allowing the device to separate from the cap. Teeth were only in the half pulling up the device. The hinge knuckles were too weak and broke.

[0151] FIGS. 18A-18C depict a second iteration of the prototype based on FIGS. 14A-14C. FIG. 18A shows a perspective bottom view cap remover device 900 comprising tip 902, locking mechanism 906 in open formation, hinge 908, and teeth 904. FIG. 18B shows a perspective side view from the bottom of cap remover device 900 comprising tip 902, locking mechanism 906 in closed formation, hinge 908, and teeth 904. FIG. 18C shows device 900 from a perspective top view. This design had teeth oriented in a top down the middle relative to the axis of the tip.There was one tooth on each side of the device in each of three rows. This structure was stiffer so did not flex. The handle was in line with the teeth and perpendicular to the hinge 908 line. The two halves flexed to each other at the hinge 908, allowing the device 900 to pull off the cap. It worked when the cap is pulled off in line with the hinge 908 line. The spacing in the centerallowed for easy clamping over the center to provide more grip on the caps. The locking mechanism was similar to a deployant clasp.

[0152] FIGS. 19A-19B depict perspective views of a third iteration of the prototype of FIGS. 14A-14C. FIG. 19A shows a perspective bottom view of cap remover device 1000 comprising tip 1002, locking mechanism 1006, and teeth 1004. FIG. 19B shows a perspective top view of cap remover device 1000 comprising tip 1002, locking mechanism 1006, and teeth 1004. This iteration again had three rows of teeth, but had three teeth per side in each row, for a total of six teeth per cap layer, As the hinges closed, the tooth closest to the pivot and farthest from tip 1002 engaged first, then the tooth closest to the tip 1002, and lastly the middle tooth. This design clamped over the center for all cap sizes. The split halves opening offered visibility on the cap location when using the device to remove a cap. The handle was in line with the hinge line and there was no hinge flexing. The tab handle, or tip 1002, moved the positioning hand away from the cap and bottle to improve visibility during cap removal. The locking mechanism was similar to a deployant clasp.

[0153] FIG. 20 depicts a perspective side view of the iterated first prototype cap remover device 1000 based on iterations in FIGS. 17A-17B, FIGS. 18A-18C, and FIGS. 19A-19B. FIG. 20 shows tip 1002 and the locking mechanism 1006 in closed form. The locking mechanism was similar to a deployant clasp. This design may suggest disposability because it is smaller than the concept of FIGS. 21A-21D, and may be cheaper to manufacture because it is made up of one part.

[0154] In summary, prototype 2 was successfully able to de-cap all three sizes. The hinge geometry facilitated a low force to close and over-center the clamp. The split halves provided a visible gap to assist in cap location. This prototype was noiseless. It was lower cost and had a one-piece construction. It was smaller and looked more disposable. It was deemed that there was a clear way forward in development.

[0155] FIGS. 21A-21D depict a second version of a prototype of a cap remover device based on the design of FIGS 15A-15D and 16A-16B. FIG. 21A depicts a perspective top view of cap remover device 1100 comprising cover 1106. FIG. 21B depicts a cross-section side view of cap remover device 1100 comprising edge 1108, spring 1102, conical face 1114, left follower 1112, and right follower 1110. When spring 1102 is in a compressed state, left follower 1112 and right follower 1110 may be pushed apart and located at a start position at edge 1108. When device 1100 is placed on a capped bottle and the device is pushed in the direction of the arrow, the left and right followers 1112 and 1110 may slide on the conical face 1114 too close around the bottle cap. In some tests, the followers moved in symmetry, such as shown in FIG. 21C. In some tests,the followers did not move in symmetry, such as shown in FIG. 21D. FIG. 21C depicts a perspective bottom view of device 1100 comprising teeth 1104 before use of the device. The springs were compressed without bending on their main axis. The two halves of the device (e.g., the left and right followers) are closed together and can slide in symmetry. FIG. 21D depicts another perspective bottom view of device 1100 comprising springs 1102 and teeth 1104. This shows the device after use. The two halves of the device (e.g., the left and right followers) did not slide in symmetry, so the springs 1102 did not compress about their main axis and instead bent. This design had teeth oriented in a top down the middle relative to the axis of the tip. There was one tooth on each side of the device in each of three rows. This device was difficult to press down on the 32 mm cap due to over-center closure. It failed on the 32 mm cap because the teeth block’s parallel motion collapsed when the device was pulled off the cap. There was sidewall friction as the teeth engaged all cap sizes. The device worked on a 20 mm cap. The device failed on a 13 mm cap because the teeth block’s parallel motion collapsed when the device was pushed down on the cap. This design may be more expensive to manufacture because it is made of two parts.

[0156] In summary, this device 1100 was only successful in decapping a 20 mm cap. It required significantly more force to clamp the 32 mm and 20 mm caps, and all six teeth engaged at the same time. There was poor visibility and difficulty in locating the 13 mm cap when the device was placed on the cap. It was loud to clamp even though a lubricant had been applied to the sliding surfaces. It was a larger and more expensive, two-piece construction. There was an uncertain development path forward because the teeth blocks had to be mechanically constrained to stay planar during capping a cap removal.

[0157] The next steps after deciding on a type of prototype included modifying the design to include a releasable catch to hold the device closed. The steps also included manufacturing a small number of printed proof of concept prototypes for nurse and user evaluation. The steps also included modifying the prototype design to replace the hinge pin feature with kit-bashed living hinges, as shown in FIG. 22. The steps also included building a kit-bashed living hinge prototype to evaluate hinge performance and possible stretch deformation. The steps also included creating a 3D digital model for polypropylene injection molding and pricing a single cavity development mold.

[0158] FIG. 22 depicts a perspective extended view of the next stage of the first prototype of the cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 22 shows cap remover device 1200 comprising locking mechanism 1202, living hinges 1206, locking recess 1204. The locking mechanism can be a hook. The locking recess can be a hook receptacle.A living hinge as provided herein may refer to a thin and / or flexible section of a molded unit that connects at least two segments, wherein the hinge operates by controlled bending of the thin / flexible section rather than by use of an additional mechanical hinge structure (e.g., a pin hinge).Example 4: Ill-Fitting Device Deformation

[0159] FIG. 23A depicts an example cap remover device sitting on a cap in accordance with example embodiments described herein. In the prototype examples discussed above, locations may or may not have been concentric. Locations where the 12 mm and 20 mm cap were closer to the main hinge may have prevented the 32 mm cap from laying square within the device, as caps are may not be planar and there may be insufficient area in the prototypes as shown in FIG. 23A.

[0160] FIG. 23B depicts cap distortions when the example cap remover device is improperly positioned on a cap in accordance with embodiments described herein. For example, a small cap (e.g., a 12 mm cap) may distort the cap remover device such that the distal ends are facing downward while the center is raised. In some embodiments, a large cap (e.g., a 32 mm cap) may distort the cap remover device such that the distal ends are facing upward while the center is lowered. In some embodiments, a medium-sized cap (e.g., a 20 mm cap) may or may not distort the cap remover device.Example 5: Measuring Parameters to Remove Cap From Medication Vial

[0161] An example of the devices as provided herein were tested to determine various parameters (e.g., deformation force, cap pull-off force, sideways pull direction) that may be required to remove a metal cap from a medication vial once the device is placed onto the medication vial. For example, when closed and locked, the opening of the device that would clamp onto the metal cap would have a diameter of 32 mm and tooth arc length of 26 mm (FIG. 26), a diameter of 20 mm and tooth arc length of 16 mm (FIG. 27), or a diameter of 13 mm and tooth arc length of 10 mm (FIG. 28). For each model device, the conditions that resulted in removal of the metal cap (“pass”) and the conditions that did not yield removal of the metal cap (“fail”), as ascertained by the experimental set up shown in FIGs. 25A-25C, are provided in the tables in FIGs. 26-28.

[0162] FIG. 24 depicts a top view of 27 variations of prototypes tested. These prototypes were based on the chosen prototype design of FIG. 17. These prototypes failed for various reasons. Version 1 had a polypropylene living hinge but failed due to excessive twist and stretch in the hinge. Version 2 introduced offset centers, eliminated the polypropylene living hinge at thefulcrum, but failed due to too much horizontal deflection and hinge stretch. Version 3 eliminated the polypropylene living hinges and developed a compliant structure but failure due to horizontal distortion. Version 4 thickened the compliant members but failed due to horizontal distortion. The design was more triangular towards the tips rather than having a separate engagement and tip section. Version 5 had a thinner fulcrum and version 6 had a thicker fulcrum. Version 7 had a twin wall fulcrum. Versions 8-10 had profiles with varied compliances to evaluate bending. Version 11 tested a thicker compliant structure but failed for 32 mm caps. Version 12 added a polypropylene member for the most extreme bend but still failed for 32 mm caps. Version 13 and 14 were used to study the bends. Version 15 added polypropylene members to a second compliant bent but still failed for 32 mm caps. Version 16 tried an alternate compliant approach that failed. Version 17 revised the polypropylene attachment but had inconsistent success with 32 mm caps and breakage of the device. Version 18 was a study in snap lock presentation and had a revised polypropylene hinge member. Version 19 revised the polypropylene member attachment and added a double snap lock, but had inconsistent success with 32 mm caps and lock failure after multiple uses. Version 20 moved the snap lock feature but had inconsistent success with 32 mm caps. Version 21 again moved the snap lock feature but had inconsistent success with 32 mm caps. Version 22 tested pinned hinges but had body distortion. Version 23 had pinned joints and a twin box wall all around the device. While it still failed with 32 mm caps, it has a reduction in failure rate. Version 24 had a twin box wall all around the device and polypropylene members. While it still failed with 32 mm caps, it has a reduction in failure rate. Version 25 and 26 were double snap lock studies. Version 25 is shown in FIG. IE. Version 27 had a good double snap lock, occasional 32 mm cap failure, and the 32 cap profile was not of equal heights.

[0163] FIGS. 25A-25D depict a strength load test of an example cap remover device in accordance with example embodiments described herein. FIG. 25A shows a top view of the interface between example teeth on a cap remover device as described herein and the cap. The arrows indicate tooth length. This may have one or more rows of teeth. FIG. 25B depicts a top perspective view of a test to apply deformation force on the cap by a cap remover device as described herein. There were movable jaws surrounding the cap, such that they could clamp onto the cap and test how much force can be applied to deform the cap. FIG. 25C depicts a top perspective view of a test to apply a cap pull-off force. FIG. 25C depicts a top perspective view of a test to apply a sideways pull force on the cap once it’s inside the cap remover device.

[0164] FIGS. 26-28 depict experimental data of cap removal success rate using the device of FIG. 25A as a stand-in for the various devices described herein. These tables show the tooth arclength, the average deformation force needed in kg / time, deformation internal distance, deformation depth, cap removal force, lever or tip length, torque in kg / mm, and whether cap removal was successful (e.g., “pass”) or unsuccessful (e.g., “fail”). Deformation internal distance may be an internal distance created by a device’s teeth. In early tests, two teeth were used in each test set-up, and this caused the caps to deform in an elliptical manner. The elliptical deformation caused the “sideways decap” to fail.

[0165] Based on the various tests, some generalizations can be derived.

[0166] In some cases, smaller teeth can fail in sideways cap pull off.

[0167] In some cases, 6mm teeth can work in multiple (e.g., all) sizes.

[0168] In some cases, the teeth can deform the cap during pull off, and the cap's top edge may need to be maintained or failure results. In some cases, smaller teeth can require less force to deform the cap. In some cases, the 13mm cap can be relatively the hardest to deform but easiest to pull off. In some cases, during cap "pull off the tooth resisting the "pull out" lift does most of the work, as noted by its deformation.

[0169] In some cases, the shape or "tightness" of the teeth surrounding the metal cap can affect the pull off force. Tighter and more parallel teeth can result in more force.

[0170] In some cases, small teeth in four, 90 degree radial locations may be required to provide cap pull off cap all directions. In some cases, the shape of the teeth at 90 degree radial locations may need radii to promote cap material movement during deformation to reduce the deformation force required.

[0171] Based on these tests results, additional revisions and iterations to the device were made to result in the device versions 100 and 200.

[0172] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present disclosure. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein may be employed in practicing the present disclosure. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A device for opening a receptacle, wherein the device comprises: a central section comprising two or more internal-facing protrusions; at least one locking mechanism coupled to the central section, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to lock the two or more internal-facing protrusions around a cap of the receptacle such that the two or more internal-facing protrusions indent the cap; and a tip comprising a handle, wherein the tip is coupled to the central section and is located opposite the at least one locking mechanism.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises an unlocked state and a locked state.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein a circumference of the central section is smaller in the locked state than in the unlocked state.

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

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

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

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one locking mechanism comprises a deployant clasp or a lever lock.

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

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the central section comprises an engagement feature.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the engagement feature is shaped in a circle or ellipse.

11. The device of claim 9, wherein a radius of curvature of the engagement feature substantially matches a radius of curvature of the at least one locking mechanism.

12. The device of claim 9, wherein the two or more internal-facing protrusions are located in the engagement feature.

13. The device of claim 9, wherein the at least one locking mechanism is located in the engagement feature when the device is in a locked state.

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

15. The device of claim 9, wherein the engagement feature comprises at least one circumference comprising two or more internal -facing protrusions.

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

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the each of the at least three circumferences are configured to fit a different sized receptacle.

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

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

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

21. The device of claim 1, wherein the tip comprises a tension release section, wherein an open space in the tension release section increases in diameter in response to locking of the at least one locking mechanism.

22. The device of claim 1, wherein the two or more internal-facing protrusions comprise from four to eighteen internal-facing protrusions.

23. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a unibody.

24. The device of claim 1, further comprising a scannable code or written code.

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

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

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

28. A method for disposing a leftover medication or drug, comprising: fitting a cap of a receptacle holding the leftover medication or drug into a device of any one of claims 1-27;locking the device onto the cap into a locked state via the at least one locking mechanism; applying force onto the cap, such that the two or more internal-facing protrusions indent the cap; lifting the receptacle opener away from the receptacle while maintaining the locked state; disposing of the leftover medication or drug.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein locking the device comprises decreasing a circumference of the central section.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. The method of claim 28, wherein disposing comprises neutralizing the leftover medication or drug.

38. The method of claim 28, wherein disposing comprises scanning a scannable code on i) the device, ii) the leftover medication or drug, or iii) both, to track disposal of the leftover medication or drug.

39. A system comprising: the device of any one of claims 1-27, and a receptacle.

40. The system of claim 39, wherein the receptacle comprises a bottle, vial, can, or jar.

41. The system of claim 39, wherein the receptacle holds a medication or drug.

42. The system of claim 39, wherein the receptacle holds a food or beverage.

43. The system of claim 39, wherein the receptacle holds a liquid, pill, powder, capsule, caplet, tablet, or any combination thereof.

44. A method for opening a receptacle, comprising: fitting a cap of the receptacle into a receptacle opener, wherein the receptacle opener comprises two or more internal-facing protrusions and at least one locking mechanism, wherein the two or more internal-facing protrusions are disposed in a central section of the receptacle opener, wherein the at least one locking mechanism is coupled to the central section; locking the receptacle opener onto the cap into a locked state from an unlocked state via the at least one locking mechanism; indenting the cap with the two or more internal-facing protrusions by applying force onto the cap via the locking mechanism; lifting the receptacle opener away from the receptacle while maintaining the locked state.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein locking the receptacle opener comprises decreasing a circumference of the central section.

46. The method of claim 44, further comprising an engagement feature.

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

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

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

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

51. The method of claim 50, wherein fitting a cap comprises fitting a cap into a circumference of the receptacle opener that is closest in size of the at least three circumferences.

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

53. The method of claim 52, wherein releasing tension comprises increasing the diameter of an open space of the receptacle opener opposite the locking mechanism in response to locking of the at least one locking mechanism.

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

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

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

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

58. A system for disposing a leftover medication or drug, comprising: a scanner; a decapper device for opening a receptacle comprising a central section comprising two or more internal-facing protrusions; at least one locking mechanism coupled to the central section, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to lock the two or more internal-facing protrusions around a cap of the receptacle such that the two or more internal -facing protrusions indent the cap; and a tip comprising a handle, wherein the tip is coupled to the central section and is located opposite the at least one locking mechanism; and a waste disposal receptacle.

59. The system of claim 58, wherein the waste disposal receptacle comprises a medical management system.

60. The system of claim 58, wherein the decapper device comprises a scannable code, wherein the scanner is configured to scan the scannable code.

61. The system of claim 60, wherein the waste disposal receptacle is configured to compare the scanned scannable code against a scanned scannable code on the receptacle.

Images