Packaging for plurality of containers

Abstract

To provide packaging for a plurality of containers.SOLUTION: A container unit may be used for promoting administration of a plurality of medical fluids to a patient. The container unit may include a first container, a second container, and a carrier for constantly holding the first container and the second container with respect to each other. The carrier may include a peripheral edge configured so as to engage with a retention device and fastening the container unit to the retention device. The carrier may also include a slot configured so as to engage with an insertion part on the retention device and guide the container unit as the container unit is fastened to the retention device. The carrier may further include a first part and a second part having different shapes complementary to the shape of a port of the retention device. The carrier may still further include an extension part disposed in the first container extending at least to the same height as the height of a stop part in the direction away from one of the first containers.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 740,490, filed October 3, 2018, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety under 35 U.S.C. §119(e).

[0002] The disclosed embodiments relate to packaging for multiple containers. [Background technology]

[0003] Medicated fluids are often manufactured and packaged separately prior to use to preserve their chemical and physical stability. Medicated fluids may be combined at the time of administration, either by mixing the medicated fluids immediately prior to administration, or by administering the medicated fluids in parallel or sequentially.

[0004] Typically, these additional steps during administration are performed by a nurse or other medical personnel who may need to administer the medicated fluid to the patient according to a particular procedure. If additional medicated fluid is required, the method of administration may be performed by the nurse or other medical personnel multiple times for a given dosage.

[0005] Conventional packaging for medicated fluids can be bulky and cumbersome. When multiple medicated fluids are used in the administration process, separate containers may be procured and handled individually. Thus, administration methods and systems that use conventional packaging with medicated fluids may lack efficient procedures and may require many steps of connecting and disconnecting components and moving fluids through various components in a specific manner. The present inventors have recognized the need for a container unit that simplifies the administration of medicated fluids from multiple containers to a patient. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In some embodiments, a system and method for administering a plurality of medicated fluids to a patient is provided, which involves a container unit including a plurality of containers. In some embodiments, the container unit includes a first container, a second container, and a carrier that holds the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a protruding edge configured to engage with the storage device and secure the container unit to the storage device. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a slot configured to engage with an insert on the storage device and guide the container unit as it is secured to the storage device. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a first portion and a second portion with different shapes that are complementary to the shape of a port on the storage device. In some embodiments, the carrier includes an extension that extends away from one of the first containers at least as high as a stop disposed within the first container.

[0007] In one embodiment, a container unit for storing a medicated fluid and interfacing with a reservoir device includes a first container having a first internal volume and a first opening, a second container having a second internal volume and a second opening, and a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other. The carrier includes a rim protruding from at least a portion of the periphery of the carrier, the rim configured to engage a latch of the reservoir device and attach the container unit to the reservoir device. The rim is configured to resist separation of the container unit from the reservoir device when the rim is engaged by the latch.

[0008] In another embodiment, a container unit for storing a medicated fluid and interfacing with a reservoir device includes a first container having a first internal volume and a first opening, a second container having a second internal volume and a second opening, and a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to one another. The carrier includes a slot disposed between the first container and the second container and configured to receive an insert of the reservoir device. The slot has a shape complementary to the insert and is configured to resist a force applied to the carrier in at least one lateral direction when the slot receives the insert.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a container unit for storing a medicated fluid and interfacing with a reservoir device includes a first container having a first internal volume and a first opening, a second container having a second internal volume and a second opening, and a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to one another. The carrier includes a first portion engaged with the first container and a second portion engaged with the second container. The first portion has an outer circumferential surface having a first shape and the second portion has an outer circumferential surface having a second shape, the first and second shapes being different.

[0010] In yet another embodiment, a container unit for storing a medicated fluid and interfacing with a reservoir device includes a first container having a first internal volume and a first opening and with a first stop, the first stop having a first end facing toward the first internal volume and a second end facing away from the first internal volume, a second container having a second internal volume and a second opening and with a second stop, the second stop having a first end facing toward the second internal volume and a second end facing away from the second internal volume, and a carrier including an extension, the carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other, the extension extending in a direction away from the first internal volume at least as high as the second end of the first stop.

[0011] In yet another embodiment, a container unit for storing a medicated fluid includes a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening defined by a first plane, a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening defined by a second plane, a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to one another, and a lid having a first portion removably positioned across the first opening and a second portion removably positioned across the second opening, the lid including at least one rotation inhibitor configured to prevent rotation of the lid about a first axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the first opening when the first portion of the lid is positioned across the first opening and the second portion of the lid is spaced apart from the carrier.

[0012] In yet another embodiment, a multiple container unit for storing medicated fluid and interfacing with a reservoir device includes a first container unit having a first container with a first internal volume and a first opening, a second container having a second internal volume and a second opening, and a first carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other. The first carrier includes a first interface portion disposed adjacent to the first opening and the second opening. The multiple container unit also includes a second container unit having a third container with a third internal volume and a third opening, a fourth container with a fourth internal volume and a fourth opening, and a second carrier configured to hold the third container and the fourth container stationary relative to each other. The second carrier includes a second interface portion disposed adjacent to the third opening and the fourth opening. The combined volume of the first interior volume and the second interior volume is different from the combined volume of the third interior volume and the fourth interior volume, and the first interface portion and the second interface portion are congruent.

[0013] The foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed below may be arranged in any suitable combination, although it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited in this respect. Moreover, other advantages and novel features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) A container unit for storing a medicinal fluid and for interfacing with a reservoir device, said container unit comprising: a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening; a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening; a carrier configured to hold the first and second containers stationary relative to one another, the carrier including a rim projecting from at least a portion of a circumference of the carrier, the rim configured to engage a latch of the storage device to attach the container unit to the storage device, the rim configured to resist separation of the container unit from the storage device when the rim is engaged by the latch; A container unit comprising: (Item 2) 2. The container unit of claim 1, wherein the edge protrudes from a first portion of an outer periphery of the carrier that is disposed around the first opening. (Item 3) 3. The container unit of claim 2, wherein the edge also protrudes from a second portion of the outer periphery of the carrier that is disposed around the second opening. (Item 4) 2. The container unit of claim 1, further comprising a lid removably attached to the carrier and configured to cover the first opening and the second opening, the lid contacting the edge. (Item 5) 5. The container unit of claim 4, wherein the first container includes a first seal, the second container includes a second seal, and the lid is configured to remove the first seal and the second seal when the lid is removed from the carrier. (Item 6) 2. The container unit of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a first section and a second section configured to be secured together, the first section and the second section configured to surround the first container and the second container when the first section and the second section are secured together. (Item 7) 7. The receptacle unit of claim 6, wherein the first section includes one or more section latches and the second section includes one or more section latch receptacles, the one or more section latches configured to be inserted into the one or more section latch receptacles to secure the first section to the second section. (Item 8) 7. The container unit of claim 6, wherein the edge is formed on each of the first section and the second section. (Item 9) 2. The container unit of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a bottom configured to cover a bottom portion of the first container and a bottom portion of the second container. (Item 10) 10. The container unit of claim 9, wherein the bottom spans a gap between a bottom portion of the first container and a bottom portion of the second container. (Item 11) A container unit for storing a medicinal fluid and for interfacing with a reservoir device, said container unit comprising: a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening; a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening; a carrier configured to hold the first and second containers stationary relative to one another, the carrier being disposed between the first and second containers and including a slot configured to receive an insert of a storage device, the slot having a shape complementary to the insert, the slot being configured to resist a force applied to the carrier in at least one lateral direction when the slot receives the insert; A container unit comprising: (Item 12) Item 12. The receptacle unit of item 11, wherein at least a first portion of the insert defines at least three walls of a rectangular pillar. (Item 13) Item 13. The receptacle unit of item 12, wherein at least a second portion of the insert defines a horizontal cylindrical section, the second portion of the insert being positioned on a distal end of the insert. (Item 14) Item 12. The container unit of item 11, wherein the slot includes at least one inner wall, and the insert includes a channel configured to receive the at least one inner wall, and the at least one inner wall has a shape complementary to that of the channel. (Item 15) Item 12. The container unit of item 11, wherein the carrier includes a first section and a second section configured to be secured together, the first section and the second section configured to surround the first container and the second container when the first section and the second section are secured together. (Item 16) Item 16. The container unit of item 15, wherein the first section includes one or more latches and the second section includes one or more latch receptacles, the one or more latches being configured to be inserted into the one or more latch receptacles to secure the first section to the second section. (Item 17) Item 12. The container unit of item 11, wherein the carrier includes a bottom configured to cover a bottom portion of the first container and a bottom portion of the second container. (Item 18) Item 18. The container unit of item 17, wherein the bottom spans a gap between a bottom portion of the first container and a bottom portion of the second container. (Item 19) A container unit for storing a medicinal fluid and for interfacing with a reservoir device, said container unit comprising: a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening; a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening; A carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to one another, the carrier including a first portion engaged with the first container and a second portion engaged with the second container, the first portion having an outer circumferential surface having a first shape and the second portion having an outer circumferential surface having a second shape, the first and second shapes being different; A container unit comprising: (Item 20) 20. The container unit of claim 19, wherein when the first shape and the second shape are combined, the combined shape is configured to be received by a port of the storage device. (Item 21) 20. The container unit of claim 19, wherein the first shape is an ellipse with a first radius and the second shape is an ellipse with a second radius, the first radius being less than the second radius. (Item 22) 20. The receptacle unit of claim 19, wherein a slot is disposed between the first shape and the second shape. (Item 23) 20. The container unit of claim 19, wherein the carrier includes a first section and a second section configured to be secured together, the first section and the second section configured to surround the first container and the second container when the first section and the second section are secured together. (Item 24) 24. The receptacle unit of claim 23, wherein the first section includes one or more latches and the second section includes one or more latch receptacles, the one or more latches being configured to be inserted into the one or more latch receptacles to secure the first section to the second section. (Item 25) 24. The container unit of claim 23, wherein the first section forms at least a portion of the first shape and the second shape. (Item 26) 26. The container unit of claim 25, wherein the second section forms at least a portion of the first shape and the second shape. (Item 27) 27. The container unit of claim 26, wherein the first section and the second section form equal parts of the first shape and the second shape. (Item 28) 20. The container unit of claim 19, wherein the carrier includes a bottom configured to cover a bottom portion of the first container and a bottom portion of the second container. (Item 29) Item 29. The receptacle unit of item 28, wherein the bottom spans a gap between a bottom portion of the first receptacle and a bottom portion of the second receptacle. (Item 30) A container unit for storing a medicinal fluid and for interfacing with a reservoir device, said container unit comprising: a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening and with a first stop, the first stop having a first end facing toward the first interior volume and a second end facing away from the first interior volume; a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening and with a second stop, the second stop having a first end facing toward the second interior volume and a second end facing away from the second interior volume; a carrier including an extension configured to hold the first and second containers stationary relative to one another, the extension extending away from the first interior volume at least as high as a second end of the first stop; A container unit comprising: (Item 31) Item 31. The receptacle unit of item 30, wherein the extension extends in a direction away from the second interior volume to at least the same height as a second end of the second stop. (Item 32) Item 31. The container unit according to item 30, wherein the extension forms an edge. (Item 33) Item 31. The container unit according to item 30, wherein the extension portion extends a first distance of 0 to 2 mm (greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 2 mm) in a direction away from the first internal volume to a height beyond the first stop portion. (Item 34) Item 34. The container unit according to item 33, wherein the extension portion extends a second distance of 0 to 2 mm (greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 2 mm) in a direction away from the second internal volume to a height beyond the second stop portion. (Item 35) Item 35. The receptacle unit according to item 34, wherein the first distance and the second distance are different. (Item 36) 31. The container unit according to item 30, wherein the extension of the container unit is configured to contact the storage device when the container unit is connected to the storage device, and wherein at least one of the first stop and the second stop is configured to be punctured by a spike when the container unit is connected to the storage device, and wherein the extension of the container unit resists insertion of the spike into at least one of the first stop and the second stop when the extension contacts the storage device. (Item 37) A container unit for storing a medicinal fluid, said container unit comprising: a first container having a first interior volume defined by a first plane and a first opening; a second container having a second interior volume defined by a second plane and a second opening; a carrier configured to hold the first and second containers stationary relative to one another; a lid having a first portion removably positioned across the first opening and a second portion removably positioned across the second opening, the lid including at least one rotation inhibitor configured to prevent rotation of the lid about a first axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the first opening when the first portion of the lid is positioned across the first opening and the second portion of the lid is spaced from the carrier; A container unit comprising: (Item 38) Item 38. The container unit of item 37, wherein the at least one rotation inhibitor is configured to prevent rotation of the lid about a second axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the second opening when the second portion of the lid is positioned across the second opening and the first portion of the lid is spaced apart from the carrier. (Item 39) Item 38. The container unit according to item 37, wherein the first plane and the second plane are the same plane. (Item 40) Item 38. The container unit of item 37, wherein the first container includes a first seal, the second container includes a second seal, and the lid contacts the first seal and the second seal. (Item 41) Item 41. The container unit of item 40, wherein the lid is configured to remove the first seal and the second seal when the lid is removed from the carrier. (Item 42) Item 42. The container unit of item 41, wherein the lid includes a tab configured to transfer an externally applied force to the first seal and the second seal. (Item 43) Item 42. The container unit of item 41, wherein the lid acts as a second lever to apply force to the first seal and the second seal. (Item 44) Item 38. The container unit of item 37, wherein the at least one rotation inhibiting portion is disposed between the first opening and the second opening when the lid is positioned across both the first opening and the second opening. (Item 45) Item 38. The container unit of item 37, wherein the at least one rotation-inhibiting portion includes two walls. (Item 46) Item 46. The container unit according to item 45, wherein the rotational arc traced by the two walls about the first axis overlaps with a portion of the carrier. (Item 47) Item 46. The container unit of item 45, wherein the two walls are configured to contact an inner wall of the carrier when the lid is rotated about the first axis. (Item 48) Item 46. The container unit of item 45, wherein the two walls are configured to contact an outer wall of the carrier when the lid is rotated about the first axis. (Item 49) A plurality of container units for storing a medicinal fluid and for interfacing with a storage device, said plurality of container units comprising: A first container unit, a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening; a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening; a first carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to one another, the first carrier including a first interface portion disposed proximate the first opening and the second opening; A first container unit comprising: A second container unit, a third container having a third interior volume and a third opening; a fourth container having a fourth interior volume and a fourth opening; a second carrier configured to hold the third container and the fourth container stationary relative to one another, the second carrier including a second interface portion disposed proximate the third opening and the fourth opening; A second container unit comprising: Equipped with a combined volume of the first interior volume and the second interior volume is different from a combined volume of the third interior volume and the fourth interior volume, and the first interface portion and the second interface portion are congruent. (Item 50) 50. The multiple container unit of item 49, wherein the first interior volume and the third interior volume are different. (Item 51) Item 51. The multiple container unit of item 50, wherein the second interior volume and the fourth interior volume are different. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures may be represented by a similar numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every figure.

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of the receptacle unit.

[0016] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the container unit of FIG.

[0017] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of a first container and a second container.

[0018] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of a receptacle unit.

[0019] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 depicts an exploded alternative view of the receptacle unit of FIG.

[0020] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 depicts one embodiment of a latch for a receptacle unit.

[0021] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 depicts a partially exploded view of the container unit of FIG. 1, including the lid.

[0022] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of the receptacle unit of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 of FIG.

[0023] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 depicts a bottom view of the lid of FIG.

[0024] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 depicts a bottom view of the receptacle unit of FIG.

[0025] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 depicts a top view of the receptacle unit of FIG. 1 with the lid removed.

[0026] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 depicts an embodiment of a reservoir device.

[0027] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 depicts an exploded view of the reservoir unit of FIG. 1 when used with the reservoir device of FIG.

[0028] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method for using a reservoir unit and a storage device.

[0029] [Figure 15] 15 is a cross-sectional view of the receptacle unit of FIG. 1 taken along line 15-15 of FIG.

[0030] [Figure 16] FIG. 16 depicts another embodiment of the receptacle unit.

[0031] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 depicts a cross-sectional view of the receptacle unit of FIG. 16 taken along line 17-17 of FIG.

[0032] [Figure 18] FIG. 18 depicts yet another embodiment of the receptacle unit.

[0033] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 depicts yet another embodiment of a receptacle unit.

[0034] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 depicts yet another embodiment of the receptacle unit.

[0035] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 depicts an embodiment of a multiple container unit in use with a reservoir device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] During a typical administration process, multiple syringes may be used to mix medicated fluids in a series of steps prior to injection into a patient. At each step, a nurse, doctor, or other medical personnel takes care to ensure sterility as the individual fluids are drawn from their individual packaging and discharged into a mixing container. Even if the medicated fluids do not need to be premixed prior to injection into a patient, each fluid is typically drawn from an individual container by a pump, syringe, or other suitable tool. If a larger dosage is required for a particular patient than that contained in a typical container, the process is typically repeated multiple times until the required dosage is reached. Thus, conventional administration methods performed by medical personnel typically use multiple individual containers of medicated fluids, which can be time-consuming and complicated.

[0037] In some treatments, multiple medicated fluids are administered to a patient in a mixture or sequentially in a predetermined volume ratio. Containers of medicated fluids are typically provided separately and specific dosages can be measured out by a medical practitioner. Thus, significant time and effort is spent in procuring and preparing specific dosages for a patient. This time and effort can be further complicated for some patients who may require larger dosages than those provided in standard containers, and medical practitioners may be required to pool the medicated fluid across a range of differently sized containers. Upon completion of the fluid administration process, medical practitioners may manage large volumes of containers and medicated fluid waste as a result of a single treatment.

[0038] In some cases, due to the frequency of treatments using some medicated fluids, self-administration is a preferred option for convenience and cost. Difficult procedures, which are already time-consuming when performed by medical personnel, can be difficult for patients to practice self-administration. For example, patients may need to obtain and handle multiple containers of medicated fluid for a single administration process, which can be difficult and time-consuming. Therefore, reducing the time consumption and complexity of medicated fluid administration is desirable for self-administering patients because of improved convenience and reduced impact on daily life.

[0039] In light of the above, the inventors have recognized the advantages of a container unit that allows a patient to administer multiple medicated fluids contained separately in different containers. Compared to conventional administration processes, the container unit may allow the use of a simpler medicated fluid administration process having fewer steps. The container unit may also allow administration of a dosage with a predetermined ratio of medicated fluids such that medicated fluid preparation for a predetermined dosage is simplified. The container unit may include a first container, a second container, and a carrier configured to store the first container and the second container and hold them stationary relative to each other. The carrier may include features that allow the container unit to cooperate with a storage device to further simplify administration of medicated fluids from one or more container units.

[0040] The inventors have also recognized the advantage of the container unit including a lip for attaching the container unit to an associated storage device. The lip may engage a latch of the associated storage device to attach the container unit to the storage device. Thus, a patient may quickly and reliably attach a container of medicated fluid to the storage device and administer multiple doses of medicated fluid for treatment.

[0041] In some embodiments, the receptacle unit includes a first receptacle, a second receptacle, and a carrier configured to hold the first receptacle and the second receptacle stationary relative to one another. The carrier may include a rim protruding from at least a portion of the periphery of the carrier. The rim may be configured to engage a latch of an associated receptacle device when the receptacle unit is connected to the receptacle device. After the rim engages the latch, the rim may resist separation of the receptacle unit from the receptacle device such that the receptacle unit is secured to the receptacle device. In some embodiments, the rim may protrude from a portion of the periphery disposed around a first opening of the first receptacle and / or a second opening of the second receptacle. Such an arrangement may provide separation resistance in the vicinity of the interface between the first and second receptacles and the receptacle device.

[0042] The inventors have also recognized the advantage of a container unit including a carrier with a slot disposed between a first container and a second container. The slot may be configured to receive an insert from an associated storage device. Such an arrangement may prevent accidental removal of the container unit during use and may also facilitate a secure and rapid connection of the container unit to the storage device to administer a medicinal fluid for treatment.

[0043] In some embodiments, the container unit includes a first container, a second container, and a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other. The carrier may also include a slot disposed between the first container and the second container. The slot may be configured to receive an insert of an associated storage device and may have a shape complementary to the shape of the insert. According to this embodiment, when the insert is received by the slot, the slot may resist a force applied to the container unit in one or more lateral directions. The slot may be used to guide the container unit as it is moved toward the storage device and connect the container unit to the storage device. By guiding the container unit, the slot may promote a reliable fluid connection between the first and second containers and the storage device. In some embodiments, the slot may include an inner wall configured to engage a channel in the insert, thereby providing an additional guiding surface between the container unit and the associated storage device.

[0044] The inventors have also recognized the advantage of a container unit including a carrier with a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having an outer circumferential surface with a first shape and the second portion having an outer circumferential surface with a second shape, such an arrangement may facilitate attachment of the container unit in a proper orientation to an associated storage device and may facilitate secure and rapid connection of the container unit to the storage device.

[0045] In some embodiments, the container unit includes a first container, a second container, and a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other. The carrier may include a first portion with a first shape and a second portion with a second, different shape. The first and second portions may be configured such that their combined shape is complementary to the shape of a port on the associated storage device. Because the first and second shapes are different, the container unit may have a predefined orientation in which the container unit is connectable to the storage device. In some embodiments, the first and second portions may be shaped to be complementary to the shape of the port of the storage device, such that the port may engage the first and second portions and guide the container unit as it is connected to the storage device. In some embodiments, the first and second shapes may be elliptical, the first shape having a first radius and the second shape having a different second radius.

[0046] The inventors have also recognized the advantage of a container unit including a first container, a second container, and a carrier with an extension. The extension may extend in a direction away from the first interior volume of the first container at least as high as the first stop of the first container. The extension may contact an associated storage device and resist insertion of the container unit into the storage device. Such an arrangement may facilitate reliable insertion depth of the spike of the storage device.

[0047] In some embodiments, the container unit includes a first container with a first stop, a second container with a second stop, and a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to each other. The carrier may have an extension that extends away from the first container at least as high as the first stop. More specifically, according to these embodiments, the extension may extend in a direction away from the first internal volume of the first container at least as high as an end of the first stop that faces away from the first internal volume. Thus, the offset between the extension and the end of the first stop may be greater than or equal to zero. The extension may be configured to contact a surface on an associated storage device and to resist further insertion of the spike of the storage device into the first container when the extension contacts the storage device. Thus, the extension may set a predetermined insertion (ie, puncture) depth for the spike of the storage device and facilitate an effective seal and fluid connection between the first and second containers and the storage device.

[0048] In some embodiments, the suitable offset between the extension of the container unit and the first stop of the first container held by the carrier (i.e., the distance the extension extends beyond the end of the first stop in a direction away from the first container) may be greater than or equal to about 0 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or any other suitable offset. Correspondingly, the offset between the extension of the carrier and the first stop may be less than or equal to about 2.75 mm, 2.25 mm, 1.75 mm, 1.25 mm, 0.75 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.1 mm, or any other suitable offset. Combinations of the above ranges are also contemplated, including, for example, 1 mm to 2 mm, 0 mm to 2 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, and offsets of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm or equal thereto. Of course, any suitable offset may be used, including distances both greater than and less than those listed above, although the disclosure is not so limited.

[0049] In some embodiments, the container unit includes a first container, a second container, a carrier, and a lid. The first and second containers may each include an interior volume, a stop, and a seal. The stop may be disposed within an opening of the container, and the seal may cover the stop and provide protection for the stop prior to use of the container unit. The first and second containers may have different interior volumes and may hold different medicinal fluids for administration to a patient. In some embodiments, the volumes of the first and second containers may be related by a predetermined ratio. The carrier may be configured to hold the first and second containers stationary relative to one another. The carrier may include a first section and a second section, which may be connected around the first and second containers to secure the first and second containers within the carrier. The first and second sections may include a section latch and a section latch receptacle configured to secure the first section to the second section when they are brought together. The first and second sections may also include one or more alignment members to guide and facilitate proper alignment of the section latch and the section latch receptacle. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a base disposed over and extending between a lowermost portion of the first and second containers. The lid may be disposed over an upper portion of the carrier where the stops and seals of the first and second containers are disposed such that the lid may protect the seals and stops of the first and second containers. In some embodiments, the lid may be disposed at least partially around the seals of the first and second containers such that removal of the lid may also remove the seals and expose the stops. The lid may include a tab configured to facilitate lift-off and removal of the lid and, in some embodiments, the seal.

[0050] In some embodiments, the medicated fluid storage device includes a housing with multiple ports as well as at least one fluid distribution system. The multiple ports may include spikes or other fluid connectors suitable for fluidly connecting one or more containers of medicated fluid to at least one fluid distribution system. The ports may include multiple spikes, which may be used to fluidly connect multiple containers packaged together in a container unit. The fluid distribution system may include a fluid interface air filter, tubing, and fluid connectors that are used to draw fluid from one or more containers once they are fluidly connected to the fluid distribution system. The ports may be configured to receive one or more container units in an inverted position such that gravity can be used to feed the medicated fluid from the containers to the fluid connectors. The fluid distribution system may feed a single medicated fluid from multiple containers connected to different ports, or may feed a mixture of different medicated fluids connected to different ports. The air filter may allow air into the fluid distribution system to be replaced with any volume of fluid drawn from the fluid connector. The fluid connector may be configured to connect to any patient device that may be used to administer fluid to a patient, such as an infusion pump or a syringe.

[0051] In some embodiments, a method for administering medicated fluid using a medicated reservoir device includes connecting one or more container units to one or more ports, coupling a patient device to a fluid connector of a fluid distribution system, and drawing medicated fluid from two or more containers disposed in the container units. The ports of the medicated reservoir device may include one or more spike assemblies, each including a hollow spike and a spike sheath covering the spike. Once the cover is removed and the spike assemblies are exposed, connecting the containers to the spikes may include pushing the containers of the container unit onto the spikes, causing the spike sheaths and containers to be punctured by the spikes, allowing fluid communication between the spikes and the interior volume of the containers. Once the container units are connected, medicated fluid from the containers may flow through the spikes and associated tubing to a fluid connector that may be used to connect the fluid distribution system to an infusion pump, syringe, or other device for administration of the fluid into the patient. When more than one container unit is connected to a fluid distribution system, the total volume of fluid in each of the connected containers of the container units may be combined and delivered as a single volume at the fluid connector. When multiple containers are used, the spike sheath may form a seal against the spike prior to the spike puncturing the container, allowing the containers to be punctured consecutively or non-sequentially without any loss of medicated fluid, and may contain any medicated fluid within the spike sheath and spike. In some embodiments, multiple fluid distribution systems may be used in a medicated reservoir device to deliver different medicated fluids or provide a mixture of different medicated fluids.

[0052] In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a container unit includes obtaining a first container, a second container, and a carrier including a first section and a second section. The method further includes placing the first container and the second container in a first recess and a second recess of the first section configured to receive the first and second containers, respectively. Once the first and second containers are placed in the first section, the second section can be placed over the first and second containers such that the first and second containers are held stationary relative to one another within the carrier. In some embodiments, the method can include aligning the first and second sections such that a section latch on one of the sections aligns with a section latch receptacle on the other section. These section latches and receptacles can be used to secure the first and second sections together around the first and second containers. In some embodiments, the first and second sections may be secured together with a mechanical depression force, which applies a force to the first and second sections to engage corresponding section latches and receptacles. The method of manufacture may be performed manually, semi-autonomously, or fully autonomously, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0053] In some embodiments, the suitable volume of the container of the container unit may be greater than or equal to about 1.25mL, 2.5mL, 5mL, 10mL, 25mL, 50mL, 100mL, 200mL, 300mL, or any other suitable volume. Correspondingly, the volume of the container may be less than or equal to about 350mL, 250mL, 150mL, 75mL, 35mL, 15mL, 7.5mL, 3mL, 1.5mL, or any other suitable volume. Combinations of the above ranges are also contemplated, including, for example, 1.25mL to 15mL, 25mL to 300mL, 100mL to 350mL, and volumes equal to or between 1.25mL and 50mL. Of course, any suitable volume may be used, including volumes both greater than and less than those listed above, but the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0054] In some embodiments, the container unit may be used in conjunction with a storage device to dispense medicated fluid from multiple containers in the container unit. An example of a storage device that may be used in conjunction with the container unit described herein is described in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office No. 15 / 186,061, entitled "POOLING DEVICE FOR SINGLE OR MULTIPLE MEDICAL CONTAINERS," filed June 17, 2016, and incorporated herein by reference. In the event that this specification and any document incorporated by reference include conflicting and / or inconsistent disclosure, this specification shall control. In the event that two or more documents incorporated by reference include conflicting and / or inconsistent disclosure with respect to each other, the document having the later effective date shall control.

[0055] Although the embodiments described herein may relate to a container unit in combination with a reservoir device, any suitable tool or mechanism may be employed to dispense the medicated fluid from the container unit. For example, a pump, syringe, or other suitable tool may also be used to withdraw and dispense the medicated fluid from the container unit. According to these examples, the pump, syringe, or other tool may be directly coupled to one or more containers of the container unit. In such an arrangement, the container unit may provide simplified packaging and access to multiple medicated fluids. Of course, the container unit may be used with any suitable dispensing device, tool, or system, and the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0056] FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of a container unit 100 including a first container 110A, a second container 110B, and a carrier formed from a first section 120A and a second section 120B. The carrier includes a slot 122, a bottom 124, a rim 126, recesses 128A, 128B, and a handle 130. The slot 122 is formed in the carrier and is configured to receive an insert of a medicated storage device having a shape complementary to the container unit, which guides into the port of the storage device. The bottom 124 covers and extends through the bottom portions of each of the containers (see, for example, FIG. 3). Thus, the bottoms create a substantially continuous surface on the bottom portions of the first and second containers, which may be used by the patient or medical personnel to apply force to the container unit. The rim 126 protrudes outward from the periphery of the container unit. More specifically, according to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the rim projects outward from the top portion of the carrier disposed near the openings of the first and second containers. The recesses 128A, 128B are configured to receive and hold the first and second containers within the carrier. The recesses may include high friction material, compressible material, or other suitable arrangements for holding the first container stationary relative to the second container. In some embodiments, the first and second containers may be rotatable about a longitudinal axis, but may be translationally held stationary by the carrier. The handle 130 and / or the bottom 124 (including the hollow portion between the first and second containers) may be easily used by the patient or other medical personnel to grip the carrier and manipulate the container unit.

[0057] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the container unit 100 also includes a lid 150 with a tab 152. The lid is removably attached to the carrier formed by the sections 120A, 120B of the container unit and rests on the edge 126. The tab may be used to lift and remove the lid from the carrier to reveal the first and second container openings. In some embodiments, the first and second containers may each include a stop and a seal (see, e.g., FIG. 3) that covers and protects the stop. In this embodiment, one or more container engagement fingers (not shown in the figures) may engage the seal of the container and may be configured to remove the seal when the lid is removed from the carrier. That is, by lifting the tab 152, the seal on each of the containers 110A, 110B may be broken and / or removed to reveal the container and its associated stop. The lid 150 may provide protection for the first and second containers until the container unit is ready for use.

[0058] FIG. 2 is a front view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the slot includes a side wall 122A, a curved wall 122B, and an inner wall 122C. Thus, the slot defines at least three sides of a rectangular pillar with the inner wall and the side wall. The curved wall defines a horizontal cylindrical section located on the proximal end of the slot. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the associated storage device may have an insert with a shape complementary to that of the slot. That is, the insert may include at least three walls of a rectangular pillar and a horizontal cylindrical section located on the distal end of the insert. Thus, the slot may guide the container unit as it is connected to the associated storage device, facilitating the virtual alignment and orientation of the container unit.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 2, the handle 130 provides adequate space for a patient or medical practitioner to grip the container unit. For example, the container unit may be gripped around the bottom 124, around the first container 110A, or around the second container 110B. Thus, the handle may allow the container unit to be more easily handled when inserted into a storage device, otherwise coupled to another medical device, or moved around. Stability provided by the handle may be desirable as the containers may each be punctured to gain access to the medicated fluid disposed therein. For example, the handle may be gripped while removing the lid 150, turning the container unit over, inserting the container unit into the storage device, and puncturing both of the containers. As shown in FIG. 2, the handle is cylindrical in shape, but any suitable shape that simplifies handling of the container unit may be adopted.

[0060] FIG. 3 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of a first container 110A and a second container 110B. The first container includes a first opening 112A to a first interior volume, the first opening being defined by a first plane, a container rim 114A, a stop 116A, a seal 118A, a bottom portion 111A, and a reduced diameter portion 115A. The stop is configured to be inserted into the opening and fluidly seal the first interior volume and rests on the container rim. The seal is configured to fit over both the stop and the extension such that the stop remains seated within the opening. Thus, the seal 118A is a protective element that can be left in place until the container is ready to be coupled to another medical device. In some embodiments, the stop 116A may be made of a material suitable for being pierced by a needle or spike, such as natural or synthetic rubber. Of course, the stop may be made of any suitable material for sealing the opening 112A, and the disclosure is not so limited. In some embodiments, the stop may not rest on the container edge 114A, but may be located completely within the opening 112A, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 3, the second container 110B includes components similar to those of the first container 110A. The second container includes a second opening 112B defined by a second flat surface, a second container rim 114B, a second stop 116B, a second seal 118B, a second bottom portion 111B, and a second reduced diameter portion 115B. The second stop, like that of the first container, is configured to be inserted into the second opening and seal the second interior volume. The second seal is placed around the stop and container rim prior to the container being ready for use during the administration process to secure the stop within the second opening. As shown in FIG. 3, the first stop 116A and the second stop 116B may include variations depending on the size of the container and the type of medicated fluid to be placed therein. Similarly, the seal may vary depending on the shape of the container edge of the container so that the stop can be secured and held within the opening. For example, the second stop may include a ridge to aid in sealing and marking. The stop and seal may use any suitable configuration that effectively seals and protects the opening of the container, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0062] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the dosing process of the medicinal fluid from the first container 110A and the second container 110B may include manipulating the seals 118A, 118B and / or the stops 116A, 116B. In some embodiments, the dosing process may include removing the first seal 118A and the second seal 118B from the first container and the second container, respectively. Once the seals are removed, the stops may be exposed such that they may be pierced by a needle or spike of an associated medical device. Of course, the stops may also be removed to couple the container to an associated medical device or to dispense the contents of the container, and the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0063] 4 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of a carrier including a first section 120A and a second section 120B. As shown in FIG. 4 and discussed above, the first section 120A includes a slot 122, a bottom 124, a lip 126, a first recess 128A, a second recess 128B, and a handle 130. The slot 122 includes a side wall 122A, a curved wall 122B, and an inner wall 122C. The bottom 124 extends between the first and second recesses, which are configured to hold the first and second containers, respectively. The lip 126 projects outwardly from the periphery of the upper portion of the first section.

[0064] According to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the first section 120A includes two container neck holders 132A, 132B, a section latch 134, and an alignment member 138. The container neck holders 132A, 132B may cooperate with the first recess 128A and the second recess 128B to securely hold the first and second containers within the carrier. The container neck holders may engage the necks of the first and second containers (see, e.g., FIG. 3) to prevent longitudinal movement of the first and second containers. The section latch 134 is configured to project outwardly from the first section and engage a section latch receptacle 136 on the second section 120B to secure the first section to the second section. Alignment members 138 of the first section may similarly engage alignment members on the second section to properly orient the first section relative to the second section and align the segment latch with the segment latch receptacle.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 4, the second section 120B of the carrier includes components complementary to those of the first section 120A. The second section includes a slot 122, a bottom 124, an edge 126, a first recess 128A, a second recess 128B, and a handle 130. According to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the first section and the second section may be combined to create a completed component. That is, the slot, bottom, upper edge, first recess, second recess, and handle of one of the first section and the second section may be part of a larger whole that is completed when the first section is secured to the second section. For example, the slot 122 of the first section may be combined with a slot of the second section to create a single slot that is, in effect, disposed between the first container and the second container. Similarly, the edge 126 of the second section may mate with the edge 126 of the first section to create a substantially continuous upper edge that protrudes from the periphery of the carrier. As shown in FIG. 4, the second section also includes container neck holders 132A, 132B, section latch receptacles 136, and alignment members 138 that cooperate with corresponding components of the first section. The container neck holders 132A, 132B of the second section may mate with the container neck holders 132A, 132B of the first section to form an enclosed space for holding the container neck. The section latch receptacles 136 are configured to receive the section latches 134 such that the first and second sections may be mated and secured to one another. Similarly, the alignment members 138 of the second segment are configured to receive the alignment members of the first segment and guide and properly orient the first segment relative to the second segment. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the alignment members 138 may be reversed such that the alignment members of the first segment are configured to receive the alignment members of the second segment.

[0066] According to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the first section 120A and the second section 120B may be configured as equal parts of the carrier. That is, the carrier is split into the first section 120A and the second section 120B approximately following a central longitudinal plane. Such an arrangement may allow the first and second containers to be easily enclosed by the carrier by placing the containers in the recesses 128A, 128B of the first section and securing the second section around the containers. In some embodiments, the first section and the second section may be asymmetric or otherwise split into unequal parts. For example, the first section may form more than half of the carrier and the second section may simply function as a cap for the first section to secure the containers in place. In some embodiments, the first section and the second section may be split along a transverse plane. For example, the carrier may be split into a bottom and top section such that the container may be placed into a first, bottom section and secured in place by a second section on top. Of course, any suitable arrangement for the first and second sections may be employed and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0067] FIG. 5 depicts an exploded alternative view of the receptacle unit of FIG. 4, showing the inside of the first section 120A, including the section latch 134. As described above, the section latch 134 is configured to secure the first section and the second section 120B together when the section latch is received by the section latch receptacle 136. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the corresponding section latch and section latch receptacle pair each include a catch configured to secure in a recess or hole. As shown in FIG. 5, the peripheral section latch includes a catch (e.g., a barbed end or a distal protrusion) configured to be received by a recess or hole in the section latch receptacle (see, e.g., FIG. 6). In contrast, the central section latch includes a hole configured to receive a triangular catch disposed in the corresponding central section latch receptacle (see, e.g., FIG. 4). 5, the rectangular center segment latches are larger than the peripheral latches and may provide the majority of the fastening force for the first and second segments when inserted into corresponding segment latch receptacles. Of course, the segment latches and segment latch receptacles may have any suitable arrangement with any suitable fastening force distribution, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0068] FIG. 6 depicts one embodiment of a segment latch 134 and segment latch receptacle 136 for a carrier. As shown in FIG. 6, the carrier is split into a first segment 120A and a second segment 120B. The segment latch 134 and segment latch receptacle 136 are disposed on the bottom 124 of the carrier. The segment latch 134 may include a barbed end or other distal protrusion that may be received by the segment latch receptacle 136. The segment latch 134 may be resiliently deflectable such that the barbed end is deflected out of the way as the segment latch is inserted into the segment latch receptacle. Once the segment latch is fully inserted into the segment latch receptacle, a window in the segment latch receptacle may receive the barbed end such that the segment latch may return toward the rest position. Once the segment latch is returned toward the rest position, the barbed end may resist a force that may separate the first segment from the second segment. In the embodiment shown on FIG. 6, the segment latch 134 may be depressed to release the segment latch from the segment latch receptacle 136 .

[0069] Although a latch is shown and described in the embodiment of FIG. 6, any suitable fastener may be used to secure the first section of the carrier to the second section of the carrier. For example, a screw, a bolt, a tack, a rivet, an adhesive, or any other suitable fastener may be used to secure the first section to the second section. The fastener may be removable or substantially permanent. In some embodiments, different fasteners may be used in combination to secure the first section to the second section. For example, combinations may include, but are not limited to, a section latch and an adhesive, a section latch and a screw, and a screw and an adhesive. The fastener may be placed in virtually any suitable location between the first section and the second section to secure the first section to the second section.

[0070] FIG. 7 depicts a partially exploded view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 1, including the lid 150. As shown in FIG. 7, the lid 150 is removed from the carrier, which is formed by the sections 120A, 120B. As described above, the lid includes a tab 152, which facilitates removal of the lid. The container unit includes a first container 110A and a second container 110B disposed within the carrier, with the openings of the first and second containers disposed adjacent to the interface portion 144 of the carrier. The lid may partially fit inside the carrier to removably attach the lid to the carrier. The first container includes a first seal 118A, and the second container includes a second seal 118B. According to the embodiment of FIG. 7, the lid engages the first seal and the second seal. As the lid is removed from the carrier, the seals may also be removed by the lid. According to the embodiment of FIG. 7, the seals may be more easily removed by lifting the tab. That is, without wishing to be bound by theory, the lid may function as a second type of lever, with the seal acting as the load and the carrier acting as the fulcrum.

[0071] According to the embodiment of Figures 7-9, the lid 150 may engage the seals 118A, 118B to simplify its removal during the administration process. For example, container engagement fingers 154 (see Figure 8) may be configured to engage a downwardly facing edge of the top seal such that the lid can be used to apply an upward force to the seal. As an alternative example, an adhesive or other suitable fastener may be used to physically join the lid and seal so that they remain substantially stationary relative to one another. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 7, the lid includes a tab 152, which may be used to apply a force to the seal. In some embodiments, the tab may include a hinged portion that may extend to provide additional leverage to the patient or medical personnel removing the lid. According to the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 9, the lid also includes a rotation inhibition 156, which prevents the lid from being rotated about either of the seals 118A, 118B prior to complete removal of the lid. That is, the rotation inhibitor contacts the inner wall 158 of the carrier interface portion 144 and prevents rotation in a direction away from the container 110A, 110B about an axis extending from either of the seals. Such an arrangement may allow the lid to be rotated about a longitudinal axis and / or lifted away from the container in a direction along an axis extending from either of the seals, such as when the lid is lifted by the tab 152. Of course, any suitable arrangement of the lid and seal may be employed, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0072] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 8, the container unit includes a container 110 disposed within a carrier formed by sections 120A, 120B. The container 110 includes an opening 112 to an interior volume within which a stop 116 is disposed. A seal 118 is wrapped around the stop as well as a container edge 114 of the container. A bottom portion 111 of the container is held within the carrier inside the recess 128 and the container neck holder 132. A lid 150 is disposed partially inside the carrier and includes a tab 152 and a plurality of container engagement fingers 154. The container engagement fingers 154 are disposed around and in contact with the seal 118. Thus, when the lid is removed (e.g., by lifting the tab), the container engagement fingers 154 will engage the downwardly facing edge of the seal 119 and apply a removal force to the seal. Thus, the seal 118 will be completely removed along with the lid 150.

[0073] In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the container engagement fingers 154 may be angled toward the seal 118 and may be made of a flexible material. Thus, when the lid 150 is placed over the container 110 and carrier 120, the container engagement fingers may deflect (i.e., flex) out of the path of the seal so that the lid may be removably secured to the carrier. Once the lid is secured, the container engagement fingers may be biased toward the seal so that the container engagement fingers remain in contact with the seal. Thus, when the lid is lifted, the container engagement fingers do not flex out of the path of the seal, but rather engage and apply a removal force to the seal. Such an arrangement may provide simplified manufacture and ensure that the seal is removed when the lid is removed with a simple motion. The lid may be made of any suitable flexible material, including, but not limited to, plastic and metal. Of course, the lid may employ any suitable arrangement that covers and protects the opening of the container, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0074] FIG. 9 depicts a bottom view of the lid 150 of the container unit of FIG. 7. As described above, the lid includes tabs 152 that are configured to allow an operator to apply force to a seal engaged by the lid. In particular, container engagement fingers 154 engage the seal of the container and remove the seal when the lid is removed. In some cases, the lid may be made of a flexible material such that one side of the lid can be removed (with the container seal on the same side correspondingly removed) without removing the seal engaged by the opposing side of the lid. For example, a first portion of the lid can be pulled up along axis 155A to remove the first seal and then rotated about axis 155B while a second portion of the lid remains engaged with the second seal, which remains within opening 112B. As shown in FIG. 9, the lid includes one or more rotation inhibitions 156. The rotation inhibitor is configured to engage one or more components of the carrier (e.g., see interior wall 158 in FIG. 7) and prevent rotation of the lid about either one of the axes 155A or 155B when a corresponding portion of the lid is lifted and away from the carrier such that an operator cannot access one container while maintaining the integrity of the seal on the other container. More specifically, the rotation inhibitor prevents lifting one side of the lid, removing the seal of the first container, and rotating the lid about the seal of the second container to expose the first container while maintaining the seal of the second container. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the rotation inhibitor prevents rotation of the lid about either axis 155A or 155B without preventing movement of the lid in translation along that axis. 9 does not prevent translation of the lid in the removal direction away from the carrier (i.e., in the direction of axes 155A, 155B toward the far side of the page) or rotation of the lid about its longitudinal axis 153 or any axis parallel to longitudinal axis 153. Thus, an operator may use tab 152 to remove the lid from the carrier by translating the lid and / or rotating the lid about its longitudinal axis or any axis parallel to longitudinal axis 153 to remove both seals from the rotation inhibitor without interference.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 9, the rotation inhibitor 156 is configured as two walls that are shaped to complement and fit closely with the shape of the inner wall such that rotation about the axes 155A, 155B is prevented (see, for example, inner wall 158 in FIG. 7). When the lid is rotated about either axis 155A or 155B, at least one of the rotation inhibitors contacts a portion of the carrier and prevents further rotation. That is, the rotation arc traced by the rotation inhibitor about either axis 155A or 155B overlaps with a portion of the carrier such that the rotation inhibitor interferes with the carrier when the lid is rotated about either axis. However, the rotation arc and / or translation path of the rotation inhibitor when moved in other directions (e.g., rotation about the longitudinal axis 153, an axis parallel to axis 153, or translation along axes 155A, 155B) may not overlap with the carrier in those directions such that no interference occurs and the lid is free to move in those directions. In some cases, a tight fit between the rotation inhibitor and the carrier may improve the inhibition of rotation about axis 155A or 155B by reducing the rotation clearance in those directions. Of course, while the rotation inhibitor shown in FIG. 9 is configured as two walls that fit tightly against the inner wall of the carrier, the rotation inhibitor may be configured as any suitable structure that impedes rotation of the lid. In some embodiments, the rotation inhibitor may be located between two container-engaging fingers that are proximate to the geometric center of the lid. Such an arrangement may ensure that rotation is suitably inhibited if either side of the lid is lifted, by ensuring that the rotation arc of the rotation inhibitor is greater than the rotation clearance of the carrier in the direction of rotation about axis 155A or axis 155B. In some embodiments, the rotation inhibitor may be located outside the inner wall of the container and configured to engage the outer wall of the carrier and inhibit rotation of the lid.

[0076] FIG. 10 depicts a bottom view of the receptacle unit 100 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 10, the receptacle unit includes a carrier formed from a first section 120A and a second section 120B. The carrier includes a bottom 124, which is substantially continuous and extends in a plane. According to the embodiment of FIG. 10, the bottom covers the bottom portion of the receptacle held in the carrier (see, e.g., FIGS. 3 and 8). The bottom also spans any lateral (i.e., transverse) gap or space between the bottom surfaces of the receptacle in the carrier. Thus, the bottom may provide a surface against which a force may be applied. According to the embodiment of FIG. 10, the receptacle unit may be configured to connect with a storage device along an upper portion of the receptacle unit. In some embodiments, force may be used to engage one or more latches of the receptacle unit and the storage device, and to puncture the receptacle of the receptacle unit with one or more spike assemblies. Thus, it may be desirable to provide a smooth surface on the receptacle unit, which may be used to apply a uniform force to the carrier and each of the receptacles disposed therein. In some embodiments, the bottom surface may at least partially cover the bottom portion of each of the receptacles disposed in the carrier. According to this embodiment, the portion of the carrier that may be used to apply a force to each of the bottom portions of the receptacles may be suitable for connecting the receptacle unit to a storage device. In some embodiments, the bottom 124 of the receptacle unit may be substantially flat. Such an arrangement may be desirable if the receptacle unit is set to stand upright on a flat surface. For example, a flat bottom may be desirable for the receptacle unit to be set upright on a table top. A flat arrangement of the bottom may also facilitate the application of force to the receptacle unit. Of course, the bottom of the receptacle unit may adopt any suitable arrangement with a suitable shape, and the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0077] FIG. 11 depicts a top view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 1 with the lid 150 removed, revealing the interface portion 144. As shown in FIG. 11, the seals 118A, 118B are disposed across the stops and openings of the first container and the second container. The container is disposed within a carrier formed of a first section 120A and a second section 120B and has an interface portion 144. The interface portion includes a slot 122 disposed between the first container and the second container. As described above, the slot includes a side wall 122A, a curved wall 122B, and an inner wall 122C. The inner wall 122C divides the slot into two portions, each with equally sized side walls and curved walls. As shown in FIG. 11, each portion of the slot forms at least three walls of a rectangular post. As described above, the reservoir device or other medical device may have an insert with a shape complementary to that of the slot. The insert may include a protrusion split by a channel configured to receive the inner wall 122C of the slot, so that the slot can guide and orient the container unit into the correct position as the container unit is coupled to a storage device or other medical device.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 11, the interface portion 144 of the carrier formed by the sections 120A, 120B includes a first outer circumferential surface 140A with a first shape and a second outer circumferential surface 140B with a second shape. The first outer circumferential surface 140A is disposed around the first container and the first seal 118A, while the second outer circumferential surface 140B is disposed around the second container and the second seal 118B. The first and second surfaces are separated by a slot 122. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the first and second shapes are each generally elliptical with different radii. That is, the first shape has a radius R1 extending from the center of the first container that is less than a radius R2 extending from the center of the second container. Of course, the first and second shapes may be any suitable shape, including a triangle, a rectangle, a polygon, a circle, or any combination thereof, and the present disclosure is not so limited. In some embodiments, the first and second shapes may correspond to the shape of a port on an associated storage device or other medical device. That is, in some embodiments, the combined first and second shapes may be approximately the same as the shape of a port on the storage device. The combined shapes may be asymmetric due to the difference between the first and second shapes.

[0079] However, it should be understood that the receptacle unit may be used with storage devices having differently shaped ports and is not limited to use with storage device ports having approximately the same shape as the receptacle unit, for example, the receptacle unit may be used with storage devices having rectangular shaped ports, square shaped ports, oval shaped ports, or any other suitable shape.

[0080] It should also be understood that different receptacle unit shapes may be used with the storage devices shown in Figures 12 and 13. In some embodiments, the shape of the receptacle unit does not match the shape of the storage device port. For example, the perimeter may form a symmetrical oval or rectangle. In some embodiments, the receptacle unit shape simply needs to be smaller than the shape of the storage device port in order to be received by the port.

[0081] In some embodiments, the reservoir device used with the container unit is a reservoir bag. A hollow spike may be used to puncture the container unit and place the container unit in fluid communication with the reservoir bag. In some embodiments, fluid can be drawn from the container unit into a syringe, where the needle of the syringe will puncture into the container unit.

[0082] FIG. 12 depicts one embodiment of the medicated storage device 10. The medicated storage device includes a housing 12, a first fluid distribution system 300, a second fluid distribution system 350, and four ports 24 for receiving the container units. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 12, the medicated storage device is configured to supply two medicated fluids, which may be stored from up to four containers per fluid. The first medicated fluid may be packaged with the second medicated fluid such that each port may receive both medicated fluids simultaneously (i.e., each of the four container units may include two containers). According to this embodiment, the medicated fluids are not mixed, but rather are independently supplied to the fluid interfaces 302, 352, which may connect to a fluid administration device, such as a syringe or infusion pump, that may deliver the fluids to the patient in sequence. The first and second medicated fluids may each be conveyed to each of the fluid interfaces by separate tubing. As shown in FIG. 12, the fluid interface may be removably connected to an interface holder 14 for storage and transportation.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 12, four ports 24 of the medicated storage device are exposed, respectively. Each port includes a recess 16 configured to receive a container unit having a container of medicated fluid for storage and / or administration to a patient. As shown in FIG. 12, each port includes two spike assemblies 200. In each port, one spike assembly is connected to a first fluid distribution system and one spike assembly is fluidly connected to a second fluid distribution system. Thus, each port accommodates multiple containers of separate medicated fluid for storage and administration. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, when the container unit is inserted into the port, the containers disposed in the container unit may be punctured by the spike assemblies 200 to fluidly connect each of the containers to one of the fluid distribution systems that terminate in the fluid interfaces 302, 352.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 12, each port 24 may include components configured to align an inserted container unit or otherwise simplify the medicinal administration process. For example, the port may include a recess 16 formed in the housing 12 of the medicinal storage device that allows the container unit to be guided by the port as the container unit is pushed onto the spike assembly 200 by the patient or medical personnel. That is, a container unit with an outer peripheral surface shape complementary to that of the periphery of the port may be aligned and guided by the periphery of the port as each container of the container unit is pushed onto the spike assembly. The port may also include an insert 20 and a guide channel 22 configured to provide additional guiding and alignment surfaces for the insertion of the medicinal fluid container. The insert 20 and the guide channel 22 may have a shape complementary to the shape of the slot and inner wall of the container unit. Thus, the guide projection and the guide slot may contact the slot and / or inner wall to guide and align the individual containers placed in the container unit with the spike assembly 200. 12, the port includes at least one latch 18 configured to removably or permanently couple any received container unit to the port and prevent removal. In some embodiments, the latch may be configured to removably couple with the container unit. The port may include any suitable matching or locking feature, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0085] In some cases, it may be desirable to maintain the sterility of the container unit and / or the medicated storage device by preventing subsequent use of the container unit. Thus, in some embodiments, the container unit and / or the storage device may be configured for single use as a disposable device. That is, the container unit and / or the storage device may be configured to hinder or prevent reuse of the medicated storage device. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the latch 18 of the medicated storage device 10 may be configured to substantially prevent removal of the container unit attached to the port 24. Thus, an operator (e.g., a patient or a medical professional) may not be able to replace the container unit and initiate a second administration process. It should be understood that any other suitable components may be used to prevent multiple use of the container unit and / or the storage device, including mechanical restraints and self-closing valves.

[0086] FIG. 13 depicts an exploded view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 1 when used with the storage device 10 of FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 13, the container unit is inverted so that the bottom 124 of the container unit faces away from the port 24 of the storage device and is above the interface portion 144 including the edge 126. With the container unit in the inverted position, the openings (not shown) and stops of the first container 110A and the second container 110B face the spike assembly 200. The lid of the container unit and the container seal have been removed so that the container unit is ready for connection to the storage device. As shown in FIG. 13, the interface portion 144 includes a slot 122 that is aligned with the insert 20 and guide channel 22 of the port. The slot has a shape complementary to that of the insert and guide channel so that the container unit can be connected to the port in the position shown. If the container unit is not in the proper orientation shown, the insert may contact the container unit and resist connection to the port. Similar to the insert and slot described above, the first and second outer circumferential surfaces 140A, 140B of the container unit interface portion are aligned with the recess 16 of the storage device. The recess 16 has a shape complementary to that of the first and second outer circumferential surfaces 140A, 140B so that the container unit can be properly guided and oriented as it is connected to the port. If the container unit is not properly oriented and aligned with the recess, the housing 12 of the storage device may contact the container unit and resist connection to the port.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 13, the edge 126 of the container unit 100 may be configured to engage a latch 18 disposed within the port 24 of the storage device. The latch 18 may include a barbed end configured to deflect as the edge passes the barbed end, and in response, the barbed end may return to its original position and engage the edge. Such an arrangement may allow the container unit to be fully inserted into the recess 16 while providing resistance to removal of the container unit. The latch is not limited to a barbed end, however, any suitable arrangement for securing the container unit to the storage device may be used. According to the embodiment of FIG. 13, the port includes two latches disposed on opposite sides of the recess 16. In other embodiments, the port may include a single latch or more than two latches and secure to the container unit, and the disclosure is not so limited.

[0088] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a method for using a container unit with a storage device. In block 400, a patient or a medical practitioner may remove a lid of the container unit to expose a first container and a second container of medicinal fluid. In block 402, a patient or a medical practitioner may remove a first seal and a second seal that cover a first stop of the first container and a second stop of the second container, respectively. In some embodiments, blocks 400 and 402 may be combined into a single step. For example, a lid may be bonded to the first seal and the second seal such that removal of the lid also removes the first seal and the second seal from the container. In block 404, a patient or a medical practitioner may align a circumferential surface of a carrier of the container unit with a port of the storage device. In block 406, a patient or a medical practitioner may align an insert of the storage device with a slot of the container unit. In some embodiments, the order of steps in blocks 404 and 406 may be reversed depending on the particular geometry of the container unit and the storage device. In block 408, the patient or medical personnel may connect the container unit to the storage device at a port. Blocks 400-408 may be repeated as many times as necessary to arrive at a particular dosage of medicated fluid connected to the storage device. That is, for increased dosages, additional container units may be connected to the storage device.

[0089] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 1 taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 15 and discussed above, the carrier 120 of the container unit holds a first container 110A and a second container 110B using recesses 128A, 128B and container neck holders 132A, 132B. The first container includes a first stop 116A disposed within the first opening 110A, the opening 110A being defined by a first plane. The second container includes a second stop 116B disposed within the second opening 110B, the opening 110B being defined by a second plane. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the first plane and the second plane are coplanar (i.e., the first opening and the second opening are disposed on the same height). As shown in FIG. 15, the lid of the container unit as well as the seal of the container have been removed. The extension 142 forms the top portion of the carrier, extending in a direction away from the internal volume of the container. The stops each include a first end 160A, 160B and a second end 162A, 162B, the second end facing away from the internal volume of the container in which the stops are disposed. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the extension 142 extends away from the internal volume of the first container 110A at least as high as the second end 162A of the first stop 116A. That is, the offset between the extension and the second end of the first stop is greater than or equal to zero. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the extension extends a distance A away from the container neck holder 132A. The extension may be configured to contact the storage device when the container unit is connected to the storage device. The extension may resist a force applied to the bottom 124 of the carrier such that any spike or needle of the reservoir device does not extend further into the first container. Thus, the extension may set a predetermined penetration depth of any spike or needle that may extend into the first container. Such an arrangement may facilitate a suitable drainage of the first container via the spike or other coupling. For example, if the spike is inserted too far into the container, the medicated fluid disposed therein may not be able to be fully extracted via the spike.According to this embodiment, it may be desirable to have an optional internal channel of the spike located adjacent or near the first end of the first stop so that the medicinal fluid can be completely extracted (i.e., drained) from the first container.

[0090] As can be appreciated from FIG. 15, the second ends 162A, 162B of the first stop 116A and the second stop 116B of the containers 110A, 110B are located on the same height. That is, the second ends of the stops are located in the same plane, at a distance (i.e., the same distance in the vertical dimension) from the bottom 124 of the carrier 120. This is true in spite of the size difference of the containers 110A, 110B in the vertical dimension, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15. As shown in FIG. 15, the extension 142 extends a distance B away from the container neck holder 132B, which exceeds the distance A, compensating for the container size difference and the position of the container neck holder 132A, 132B. As a result, the extension 142 of the carrier can extend at least as far as the second end 162B of the second stop 116B away from the interior volume of the second container 110B. That is, the extension 142 of the carrier may be offset from the second end of the second stop by a distance in an outward direction from the second end that may be greater than or equal to zero. As a further consequence, features of the container, such as a seal (not shown in the figures), may also be located on the same height. The arrangement of the second ends of the seals at the same height may simplify the construction of the lid, facilitate its use, and potentially facilitate the administration of fluids disposed within the container. Of course, the second ends of the stops (or other features) may be located on different heights, and the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0091] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the extension 142 of the carrier forms at least a portion of the edge 126. Thus, in the embodiment of FIG. 15, the edge 126 forms at least a portion of the top portion of the carrier. In other embodiments, the extension and edge may be separate and independent from one another. For example, the extension may not extend from the outer periphery, but rather from a central region of the carrier. Although the extension 142 of FIG. 15 extends around a substantial portion of the outer periphery of the carrier, the extension may have any suitable arrangement such that the extension is at least as high as the second end 162A of the first stop 116A. For example, the extension may be formed as a post, spacer, or any other suitable standoff configured to resist forces that may overinsert the spike into the first container.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 15, the top portion of the extension 142 may have a constant offset relative to at least one of the second ends of the stops 116A, 116B. For example, the extension 142 may form multiple top points or regions that are disposed in the same plane. Each of the multiple top points or regions may have an equal offset from the second ends 162A, 162B of the stops in a direction away from the interior volume of the container 110A, 110B. That is, the extension may form a flat top portion such that a predetermined penetration depth can be set for at least one of the stops in each of the multiple top points or regions of the carrier.

[0093] FIG. 16 depicts another embodiment of the container unit 100. As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the container unit includes a first container 110A, a second container 110B, and a carrier formed from a first section 120A and a second section 120B. The container unit also includes a lid 150, which covers the openings of the first and second containers. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the container unit of FIG. 16 has a second container 110B that is larger in the radial and longitudinal directions, with a correspondingly modified second recess 128B. While the second recess of FIG. 1 forms a perfect circle, the second recess 128B of FIG. 16 is cut into two partial arcs of a circle. Thus, the bottom 124 may only partially cover the lowest part of the second container 110B.

[0094] FIG. 17 depicts a cross-sectional view of the container unit 100 of FIG. 16 taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 16. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the second end 162A of the first stop 116A is vertically aligned with the extension 142 of the carrier. That is, the extension extends a distance A from the container neck holder 132A, which results in an offset between the extension and the second end of the first stop that is approximately zero. Similarly, the second end 162B of the second stop 116B extends to approximately the same height as the extension 142. The extension 142 extends a distance B from the second container neck holder 132B, which leaves the extension approximately the same height as the second end of the second stop. 17, the offset distance is approximately zero because the second end of the second stop is aligned with the carrier extension 142. Thus, the second end of the first stop and the second stop are disposed in the same plane.

[0095] FIG. 18 depicts yet another embodiment of the receptacle unit 100. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the receptacle unit includes a first receptacle 110A, a second receptacle 110B, and a carrier formed from a first section 120A and a second section 120B. The receptacle unit also includes a lid 150, which covers the openings of the first and second receptacles. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second receptacle 110B is smaller in the radial and longitudinal directions. As a result, the second recess 128B is smaller, while the bottom 124 is approximately the same size. Hence, the carrier is thicker around the periphery of the second recess.

[0096] FIG. 19 depicts yet another embodiment of the container unit 100. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 16, the container unit includes a first container 110A, a second container 110B, and a carrier formed from a first section 120A and a second section 120B. The container unit also includes a lid 150, which covers the openings of the first and second containers. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 16, the second container 110B is larger in the radial and longitudinal directions. As a result, the second recess 128B is even larger than that of FIG. 16 and forms two separate arcs, while the bottom 124 is approximately the same size. Thus, the carrier is thinner around the periphery of the second recess, which allows a larger volume of medicated fluid in the second container 110B.

[0097] FIG. 20 depicts yet another embodiment of the container unit 100. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the container unit includes a first container 110A, a second container 110B, and a carrier formed from a first section 120A and a second section 120B. The container unit also includes a lid 150, which covers the openings of the first and second containers. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second container 110B is larger in the vertical direction. As a result, the height of the container unit is higher, while the circumferential dimensions are approximately the same. Thus, the container unit of FIG. 20 may contain more medicated fluid for a given circumferential shape.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first and second sections of the carrier may each be made, in whole or in part, from a clear (e.g., transparent, translucent) material that allows a user to view the first and second containers through the first and second sections. In one example, the first and second sections may each be made from a plastic resin, such as a copolyester, that combines high clarity with acceptable mechanical properties. Of course, other materials that allow the first and second containers to be viewed through the first and second sections may also be used.

[0099] FIG. 21 depicts an embodiment of multiple container units 100A, 100B, 100C in use with a storage device 10. As shown in FIG. 21, each of the three container units is inverted and connected to a port 24 of the storage device. Thus, the container units are secured and the containers placed therein are fluidly connected to a fluid distribution system 300, 350, which terminates at a fluid interface 302, 352. The container units are supported by the recesses 16 of the port, which have a shape complementary to the shape of the outer periphery of the container units. In the embodiment of FIG. 21, the port 24 is uniformly sized to receive any container unit with a corresponding outer periphery shape. That is, each of the container units shown has a congruent shaped interface portion suitable for fitting within the outer periphery shape of the port. Thus, even if the container units hold different volumes of medicated fluid, they can be connected to the storage device. As shown in FIG. 21, two container units 100A, 100C, holding the same volume, are shown in conjunction with a container unit 100B, having a smaller volume. The volumes of medicated fluid from each of the container units may be combined by a reservoir device and delivered to the fluid interfaces 302, 352 to reach a particular dosage. In the embodiment of FIG. 21, the medicated fluid from a first container of each of the container units is combined and delivered at one fluid interface, and the medicated fluid from a second container of each of the container units is combined and delivered at another fluid interface. Any suitable number of container units with any variation of medicated fluid volumes may be used alone or in combination during the administration process. In addition, any combination or mixing of medicated fluids may be performed by a reservoir device or other suitable medical device and may then be delivered to one or more fluid interfaces, and the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0100] While the present teachings have been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended that the present teachings be limited to such embodiments or examples. On the contrary, the present teachings encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Thus, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

Claims

1. A container unit for storing a medicinal fluid and connecting to an administration device, said container unit comprising: a first container having a first interior volume and a first opening; a second container having a second interior volume and a second opening; a carrier configured to hold the first container and the second container stationary relative to one another, the carrier including a first portion engaged with the first container and a second portion engaged with the second container, the first portion having an outer periphery having a first shape and the second portion having an outer periphery having a second shape, the first shape and the second shape being different; A container unit comprising:

2. A container unit as described in claim 1, wherein when the first shape and the second shape are combined, the combined shape is configured to be received by a port of the administration device.

3. A container unit as described in claim 1, wherein the first shape is an ellipse having a first radius, the second shape is an ellipse having a second radius, and the first radius is smaller than the second radius.

4. A container unit as described in claim 1, wherein a slot is positioned between the first shape and the second shape.

5. A container unit as described in claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section are configured to be fixed together, and the first section and the second section are configured to surround the first container and the second container when the first section and the second section are fixed together.

6. A container unit as described in claim 5, wherein the first section includes one or more latches and the second section includes one or more latch receptacles, the one or more latches being configured to secure the first section to the second section by being inserted into the one or more latch receptacles.

7. A container unit as described in claim 5, wherein the first section forms at least a portion of the first shape and the second shape.

8. A container unit as described in claim 7, wherein the second section forms at least a portion of the first shape and the second shape.

9. A container unit as described in claim 8, wherein the first section and the second section form equal parts of the first shape and the second shape.

10. A container unit as described in claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a bottom configured to cover a lowermost portion of the first container and a lowermost portion of the second container.

11. A container unit as described in claim 10, wherein the bottom spans the gap between the lowest portion of the first container and the lowest portion of the second container.

Images