Assembly for medical container for reducing contact between container and side wall of assembly

Abstract

To provide an assembly for medical container for reducing a contat between the container and a side wall of the assembly.SOLUTION: A structure includes a plurality of receptacles, in which: a. the receptacle is adopted and arranged to receive a plurality of containers; and b. each of the plurality of receptacles includes a side wall defining inside of each of the receptacles, the side wall having at least one projection part extending inside each of the receptacles. The at least one projection part extends by a first distance inside each of the receptacles, the first distance being within a range of >0 - 1.5 mm.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a structure for transporting a plurality of containers, the containers preferably being for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions. The present invention also relates to the use of the structure for transporting a plurality of containers.

[0002] Background technology Containers, such as those for pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, are commonly received (e.g., held) and transported using structures known as nests, such as those commercially available from SCHOTT Pharma AG & Co. KGaA. These containers often have a variety of diameters. For example, the containers may be syringes with caps, where the barrels of the syringes have a smaller diameter compared to the diameter of the caps. Therefore, the receptacles within the nests must be sized so that containers with a variety of diameters can still be received within the nests. However, this often results in a relatively large gap between the barrels and the receptacle sidewalls, leading to tilting of the containers within the nests. This further leads to contact between adjacent containers received within the structure, which in turn causes damage to the containers. This contact between containers increases significantly when the nests have a high packing density of containers. Furthermore, contact between the containers and the receptacles of the structure in which the containers are received can also result in damage to the containers, for example, due to friction of the containers against the receptacle sidewalls. This is particularly problematic when there is contact between the container and the bottom end of the receptacle. Structures for receiving and transporting containers are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019070357 and European Patent No. 2461849.

[0003] Summary of the Invention SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome at least one of the drawbacks encountered in the prior art.

[0004] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for receiving multiple containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which structure reduces contact between the containers and the side walls of the receptacle of the structure when the containers are received within the receptacle.

[0005] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a structure for receiving a plurality of containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which structure reduces the number of particles on the surfaces of the containers when the containers are received in the structure.

[0006] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a structure for receiving multiple containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which structure reduces damage to the containers when they are inserted into or removed from the structure.

[0007] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a structure for receiving multiple containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which structure reduces damage to the containers when they are transported using the structure.

[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for receiving multiple containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which reduces damage to the structure when the containers are inserted into or removed from the structure.

[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a structure for receiving multiple containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which structure reduces tilting of the containers when they are received within the structure.

[0010] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for receiving multiple containers, preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions, which structure can be used with containers having different diameters (i.e., the diameters of the containers vary, such as a capped syringe where the barrel of the syringe has a smaller diameter than the diameter of the cap).

[0011] Preferred Embodiments of the Invention Contribution to at least partially meeting at least one of the above-mentioned objectives is made by any of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0012] A first embodiment of the present invention is a first structure including a plurality of receptacles, a. the receptacle is adapted and arranged to receive a plurality of containers, the containers preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions; b. each receptacle of the plurality of receptacles includes a sidewall defining an interior of the respective receptacle; i. the sidewall includes at least one protrusion extending into the interior of each receptacle; ii. Preferably, the side wall of each receptacle has at least one section having a curved surface, the at least one section forming at least one ridge extending into the interior of the respective receptacle; At least one protrusion extends a first distance into the respective receptacle, the first distance being in the range >0-1.5mm, preferably >0-1mm, more preferably >0-0.7mm, and even more preferably >0-0.5mm.

[0013] In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first distance is at least 0.01 mm, more preferably at least 0.05 mm, and even more preferably at least 0.1 mm. In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first distance is in the range of 0.01 to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.05 to 1 mm, and even more preferably 0.1 to 0.5 mm.

[0014] A second embodiment of the present invention is a further structure including a plurality of receptacles, a. the receptacle is adapted and arranged to receive a plurality of containers, the containers preferably for containing pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions; b. each receptacle of the plurality of receptacles includes a sidewall defining an interior of the respective receptacle; i. the sidewall has at least one section having a curved surface, the at least one section forming at least one ridge extending into the interior of the respective receptacle; Preferably, the sidewall of each receptacle includes at least one protrusion extending into the interior of the respective receptacle, and more preferably, the at least one protrusion extends a first distance into the interior of the respective receptacle, the first distance being in the range >0-1.5mm, preferably >0-1mm, more preferably >0-0.7mm, and even more preferably >0-0.5mm.

[0015] In a preferred aspect of the second embodiment, the first distance is at least 0.01 mm, more preferably at least 0.05 mm, and even more preferably at least 0.1 mm. In a preferred aspect of the second embodiment, the first distance is in the range of 0.01 to 1.5 mm, more preferably 0.05 to 1 mm, and even more preferably 0.1 to 0.5 mm.

[0016] A preferred embodiment of "any of the structures" should be understood to be a preferred embodiment of the first structure and the further structure. For example, the third to twenty-fifth preferred embodiments of the present invention are preferred embodiments of the first structure (of the first embodiment of the present invention) and the further structure (of the second embodiment of the present invention).

[0017] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, the first distance is in the range >0-0.8 mm, more preferably >0-0.6 mm, even more preferably >0-0.4 mm, even more preferably >0-0.3 mm, even more preferably >0-0.2 mm.

[0018] This preferred embodiment is a third embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on either the first or second embodiment of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the third embodiment, the first distance is at least 0.01 mm or more, more preferably at least 0.05 mm or more, and even more preferably at least 0.1 mm or more. In a preferred aspect of the third embodiment, the first distance is in the range of 0.01 to 0.6 mm, more preferably 0.05 to 0.4 mm, and even more preferably 0.1 to 0.2 mm.

[0019] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, at least one protrusion is disposed on at least one ridge.

[0020] This preferred embodiment is a fourth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the first to third embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of either of the structures, the at least one protrusion is adapted and arranged to create a gap between the first segment of the side wall and the first segment of the container when the container is received (e.g., held) in the respective receptacle.

[0022] This preferred embodiment is a fifth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the fifth embodiment, the at least one protrusion is adapted and arranged to form the gap at least at the further end of each receptacle.

[0023] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, each receptacle has a first end and a further end, and the at least one protrusion is located closer to the further end than to the first end.

[0024] This preferred embodiment is a sixth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, each receptacle has a first end and a further end, and at least one protrusion is disposed at a further distance of xL from the further end of each receptacle, where L is the length of each receptacle, and x is in the range of 0 to 0.25, preferably 0 to 0.2, more preferably 0 to 0.15, even more preferably 0 to 0.1, and even more preferably 0 to 0.06.

[0026] This preferred embodiment is the seventh embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to sixth embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the seventh embodiment, x is in the range of 0.01 to 0.25, more preferably 0.01 to 0.2, even more preferably 0.01 to 0.15, even more preferably 0.02 to 0.1, and even more preferably 0.03 to 0.06.

[0027] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, each receptacle has a first end and a further end, and at least one protrusion is disposed at a further distance of yL from the further end of each receptacle, where L is the length of each receptacle and y is in the range of 0.01 to 1, preferably 0.02 to 0.7, more preferably 0.03 to 0.5, even more preferably 0.05 to 0.3, and even more preferably 0.07 to 0.1.

[0028] This preferred embodiment is an eighth embodiment of the present invention, preferably dependent on any of the first to seventh embodiments of the present invention. In the eighth embodiment, y>x, and at least one protrusion is disposed at a further distance of xL from a further end of the respective receptacle. In a preferred aspect of the eighth embodiment, y is in the range of 0.01 to 0.3, more preferably 0.01 to 0.2, even more preferably 0.03 to 0.1, even more preferably 0.05 to 0.1, and even more preferably 0.05 to 0.08.

[0029] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, the length of at least one protrusion is in the range of 0.1 to 15 mm, preferably 0.2 to 12 mm, even more preferably 0.3 to 9 mm, and even more preferably 0.4 to 6 mm.

[0030] This preferred embodiment is a ninth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to eighth embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the ninth embodiment, the length of at least one protrusion is in the range of 0.05 to 3 mm, more preferably 0.1 to 1.5 mm, even more preferably 0.15 to 1 mm, and even more preferably 0.2 to 0.8 mm. In the ninth embodiment, the length of the protrusion is measured along a direction parallel to the side wall of the receptacle.

[0031] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, the surface area of ​​the at least one protrusion is less than the surface area of ​​the at least one ridge.

[0032] This preferred embodiment is a tenth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to ninth embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of any construction, at least one protrusion is 12 mm 2 Less than 10 mm, preferably 2 Less than 7mm, preferably 2 Less than or equal to 5 mm, and even more preferably 2 Less than 3 mm, more preferably 2 Covering the surface area of ​​the sidewall of each receptacle is:

[0034] This preferred embodiment is an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any one of the first to tenth embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the eleventh embodiment, the surface area covered by at least one protrusion is 0.03 to 12 mm 2 , more preferably 0.06 to 10 mm 2 , more preferably 0.08 to 7 mm2 , more preferably 0.1 to 5 mm 2 , more preferably 0.13 to 3 mm 2 , and even more preferably 0.16 to 1.5 mm 2 , and more preferably 0.0.18 to 1 mm 2 , and even more preferably 0.21 to 0.7 mm 2 The range is.

[0035] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, the surface area of ​​at least one protrusion is between 0.2 and 12 mm 2 , preferably 0.2 to 10 mm 2 , more preferably 0.2 to 8 mm 2 , and even more preferably 0.3 to 6 mm 2 , more preferably 0.3 to 4 mm 2 The range is.

[0036] This preferred embodiment is a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to eleventh embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the twelfth embodiment, the surface area of ​​at least one protrusion is 0.2 to 2 mm 2 , more preferably 0.2 to 1 mm 2 , and even more preferably 0.2 to 0.8 mm 2 , more preferably 0.3 to 0.6 mm 2 The range is.

[0037] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, each receptacle includes in the range of 1 to 10 protrusions, preferably 2 to 8, more preferably 4 to 6 protrusions.

[0038] This preferred embodiment is a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to twelfth embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, at least one or all of the following apply to at least one protrusion: a. Contains at least one curved surface. b. The cross-sectional shape of at least one protrusion is in the form of a circular segment or a circle. c. The circumference of at least one protrusion, measured at the base of the protrusion, is circular or elliptical.

[0040] This preferred embodiment is a 14th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to thirteenth embodiments of the present invention. In one aspect of the 14th embodiment, all possible combinations of features a to c are preferred aspects of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a; b; c; a+b; a+c; b+c; a+b+c. In the 14th embodiment, the cross-sectional cuts are made perpendicular to the length of each receptacle. In the 14th embodiment, a semicircle is an example of a circle segment. In the 14th embodiment, the base of the protrusion is defined as the plane where the protrusion intersects with the sidewall (or ridge, if present).

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of any configuration, at least one ridge extends along at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, more preferably at least 20%, and even more preferably at least 30% of the length of each receptacle.

[0042] This preferred embodiment is a 15th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to fourteenth embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the 15th embodiment, the at least one ridge extends along at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 90%, and even more preferably at least 95% of the length of each receptacle. In a preferred aspect of the 15th embodiment, the at least one ridge extends along 100% of the length of each receptacle. In another preferred aspect of the 15th embodiment, the at least one ridge extends along less than 100%, for example 99%, of the length of each receptacle.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of any configuration, the ratio of the minimum diameter to the maximum diameter of each receptacle is in the range of 1.01 to 2, preferably 1.01 to 1.8, more preferably 1.05 to 1.6, even more preferably 1.05 to 1.4, and even more preferably 1.1 to 1.2; a. The minimum diameter is measured between the two points on the sidewall of each receptacle that are closest to each other, with a first imaginary line connecting these two closest points passing through the center of each receptacle; b. The maximum diameter is measured between the two points on the side wall of each receptacle that are furthest from each other, with a second imaginary line connecting these two furthest points passing through the center of each receptacle.

[0044] This preferred embodiment is a 16th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to fifteenth embodiments of the present invention. In the 16th embodiment, if the diameter of each receptacle varies along the length of the receptacle (e.g., the receptacle is narrower at the further end compared to the first end), the ratio in the 16th embodiment is determined as follows: the ratio is determined at the first end of the receptacle to obtain a first ratio, and the ratio is determined at the further end of the receptacle to obtain a further ratio. The ratio of the minimum diameter to the maximum diameter of each receptacle is then calculated by averaging the first ratio and the further ratio.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of any structure, the ratio of the width of at least one ridge to the smallest diameter of each receptacle is in the range of 0.1 to 0.95, preferably 0.15 to 0.85, more preferably 0.2 to 0.6, and even more preferably 0.3 to 0.4.

[0046] This preferred embodiment is a 17th embodiment of the present invention, preferably dependent on any of the 1 to 16th embodiments of the present invention. In the 17th embodiment, the minimum diameter is measured between two points on the sidewall of each receptacle that are closest to each other, and a first imaginary line connecting these two closest points passes through the center of each receptacle. In the 17th embodiment, the width is measured perpendicular to the further direction.

[0047] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, each receptacle includes at least two ridges, and at least 10%, preferably at least 30%, more preferably at least 45%, and even more preferably at least 60% of the perimeter of the side wall of each receptacle is in the form of at least two ridges.

[0048] This preferred embodiment is an 18th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the 1 to 17 embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the 18th embodiment, 10% to 100%, preferably 30% to 80%, more preferably 45% to 70%, and even more preferably 50% to 60% of the circumference of the side wall of each receptacle is in the form of at least two ridges.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment of either structure, the cross-sectional shape of at least one ridge is in the form of a circle segment or a circle.

[0050] This preferred embodiment is a 19th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to eighteenth embodiments of the present invention. In the 19th embodiment, the cross-sectional cut is made perpendicular to the length of each receptacle. In the 19th embodiment, a semicircle is an example of a circle segment.

[0051] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, at least one or all of the following apply: At least one ridge is filled. b. At least one ridge is hollow.

[0052] This preferred embodiment is a twentieth embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to nineteenth embodiments of the present invention. In one aspect of the twentieth embodiment, all possible combinations of features a. and b. are preferred aspects of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a; b; a+b. With respect to the combination a+b, this should be understood to mean that there are multiple ridges, some of these ridges are at least partially filled, and some of these ridges are hollow.

[0053] In any preferred embodiment of the structure, the internal diameter varies along the length of each receptacle, and preferably the internal first diameter measured at the first end of each receptacle is greater than the internal further diameter measured at the further end of each receptacle.

[0054] This preferred embodiment is a 21st embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to 20th embodiments of the present invention.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of any of the structures, the plurality of receptacles are adapted and arranged to deform elastically.

[0056] This preferred embodiment is a 22nd embodiment of the present invention, preferably dependent on any of the 1st to 21st embodiments of the present invention. An example of elastic deformation in the 22nd embodiment is that multiple containers are received in multiple receptacles. During transportation of the containers, the containers move and the multiple receptacles elastically deform.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of any configuration, at least a portion of the sidewall of at least one receptacle does not contact the sidewall of at least one adjacent receptacle.

[0058] This preferred embodiment is a 23rd embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the first to 22nd embodiments of the present invention. An example of the 23rd embodiment is a gap or space formed between portions of the side walls of adjacent receptacles that do not touch.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of any construction, each receptacle comprises at least two, preferably at least three, more preferably at least four, and even more preferably at least five ridges.

[0060] This preferred embodiment is a 24th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on any of the 1st to 23rd embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the 24th embodiment, the structure includes 2 to 10 ridges, preferably 3 to 8 ridges, more preferably 4 to 8 ridges, and even more preferably 4 to 6 ridges.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of any configuration, the further segment of each receptacle is adapted and arranged to receive the further segment of the container, the further segment of the container having a dimension greater than the average diameter of the container.

[0062] This preferred embodiment is a 25th embodiment of the present invention, preferably dependent on any of the 1st to 24th embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred aspect of the 25th embodiment, the further segment of each receptacle is located at a first end of the receptacle. In a preferred aspect of the 25th embodiment, the further segment of the container is located at an end of the container. An example of the further segment of the container is a flange of a syringe.

[0063] Embodiments and preferred embodiments employing "a structure" and / or using "any of the structures" should be understood to be embodiments and preferred embodiments employing and / or using the first structure, the further structure, or both.

[0064] A 26th embodiment of the present invention is a method for transporting a plurality of containers, comprising the steps of: a. providing a structure according to the present invention (e.g., a first structure, a further structure), the structure being preferably a structure according to any one of the first to twenty-fifth embodiments of the present invention; b. receiving a plurality of containers within the structure; and c. transporting the structure and the plurality of containers from the first location to a further location. Includes.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment of the method for transporting a plurality of containers, the method comprises: A. inserting the structure into a further structure, e.g., a tab, that at least partially surrounds the structure; B. sealing the opening of the further structure with a film, preferably a gas permeable film; C. Sterilizing the structure and the container received therein, preferably while sealed to a further structure, e.g., a tub. Further comprising at least one or all of:

[0066] This preferred embodiment is a 27th embodiment of the present invention, which is preferably dependent on the 26th embodiment of the present invention. In one aspect of the 27th embodiment, all possible combinations of features A to C are preferred aspects of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, A; B; C; A+B; A+C; B+C; A+B+C. In the 27th embodiment, "tab" should be understood as used in the pharmaceutical industry. In a preferred aspect of the 27th embodiment, one or more of steps A to C are performed at a first location, and one or more of steps A to C are performed at a further location. For example, steps A and B are performed at a first location after performing step b in the 26th embodiment, and then the structure with the container is transported to a further location (step c in the 26th embodiment), and then step C is performed at the further location.

[0067] A 28th embodiment of the present invention is the use of any of the structures according to the present invention, preferably any of the structures according to any of the first to 25th embodiments of the present invention, for transporting a plurality of containers received in the structure.

[0068] A 29th embodiment of the present invention is a structure according to any of the present invention, preferably any of the structures according to any of the first to twenty-fifth embodiments of the present invention, a. reducing contact between the further ends of the receptacles and the receptacles received therein; b. Reducing contact between adjacent vessels received in the structure; c. Reducing particle counts on the surface of the container received in the structure; d. To reduce damage to the vessel when accepted into the structure The present invention relates to use of at least one or all of the above.

[0069] In one aspect of the twenty-ninth embodiment, all possible combinations of features a through d are preferred aspects of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a; b; c; d; a + b; a + c; a + d; b + c; b + d; c + d; a + b + c; a + b + d; a + c + d; b + c + d; a + b + c + d. In the twenty-ninth embodiment, particle counts are reduced on the interior surface of the container, or the exterior surface of the container, or both.

[0070] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION A feature described as being preferred in one category of the invention, for example according to the structure, is equally preferred in an embodiment of another category according to the invention, such as the use of the structure according to the invention.

[0071] Throughout this specification, disclosures of ranges should preferably be understood to include both endpoints of the range. Moreover, each disclosure of a range in this document should preferably be understood to also disclose preferred subranges in which one endpoint or both endpoints are excluded. For example, the disclosure of a range from X1 to X2 should be understood to disclose a range inclusive of both endpoints X1 and X2. Also disclosed are ranges that include endpoint X1 but not endpoint X2, ranges that include endpoint X1 but not endpoint X2, and ranges that exclude both endpoints X1 and X2.

[0072] Some preferred embodiments and aspects have various combinations of features as alternatives. When various combinations are disclosed, these combinations are separated by semicolons (";"). For example, the list of features for a preferred embodiment, "a; a+b; a+c+d," discloses preferred embodiments that include feature "a," preferred embodiments that include features "a" and "b," and preferred embodiments that include features "a," "c," and "d."

[0073] The disclosed preferred embodiments and preferred aspects of the structure are to be understood as being preferred embodiments and preferred aspects of both the first structure and the further structure.

[0074] In one embodiment of the present invention, a structure includes a plurality of receptacles, each receptacle of the plurality of receptacles having a sidewall with at least one section having a curved surface, the at least one section forming a ridge. This feature is referred to herein as "the sidewall including a ridge."

[0075] In one embodiment of the present invention, a structure includes a plurality of receptacles, each of which has a sidewall with at least one protrusion and / or at least one ridge. This should not be understood to mean that the structure can only include receptacles with sidewalls that have at least one protrusion and / or at least one ridge. In addition to the plurality of receptacles described above, the structure may also include, for example, a further plurality of receptacles, where the sidewalls of the receptacles (of the further plurality of receptacles) do not include a protrusion or a ridge.

[0076] In one aspect of the invention, it is preferred that at least 70%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 95%, and even more preferably all of the receptacles of the first structure form part of a plurality of receptacles (i.e. have a sidewall that includes at least one protrusion and / or at least one ridge).

[0077] Preferred embodiments and preferred aspects of "each receptacle" should be understood to be at least 70%, more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least 95%, and even more preferably all preferred embodiments and preferred aspects of the receptacles forming the plurality of receptacles.

[0078] The embodiments and preferred embodiments of at least one protrusion should preferably be understood to apply separately to each of the protrusions of "at least one protrusion." For example, if a structure (e.g., first structure, further structure) includes at least one protrusion that extends into the receptacle by a first distance of 0.2 mm, this should preferably be understood to mean that the structure has one or more protrusions, each of which extends into the receptacle by a first distance of 0.2 mm. For example, if a structure (e.g., first structure, further structure) extends 1.5 mm into the sidewall of the receptacle, 2 When the structure includes at least one protrusion covering a surface area of ​​1.5 mm of the side wall of the receptacle, this should preferably be understood to mean that the structure has one or more protrusions, each of which extends beyond 1.5 mm of the side wall of the receptacle. 2 Covers a surface area of

[0079] The embodiments and preferred embodiments of at least one ridge should preferably be understood to apply separately to each ridge of "at least one ridge." For example, if a structure (preferably a first structure, a further structure) includes at least one ridge extending along at least 50% of the length of the respective receptacle, this should preferably be understood to mean that the structure has one or more ridges, each of which extends along at least 50% of the length of the respective receptacle.

[0080] A container received in a receptacle should preferably be understood to mean that the container is held in the receptacle.

[0081] structure The structure (e.g., the first structure, the further structure) preferably comprises a polymer. Examples of preferred polymers include polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), and cyclic olefin polymer (COP). Here, polypropylene is particularly preferred for the structure.

[0082] The structure can be obtained by deep drawing, preferably injection molding, and / or 3D printing. The structure is preferably manufactured as a single part. The structure for receiving the container for containing the pharmaceutical composition and / or cosmetic composition is often called "nest". Here, "nest" should preferably be understood as used in the pharmaceutical industry.

[0083] The structure preferably comprises 5 to 250, more preferably 10 to 200, even more preferably 20 to 190, even more preferably 40 to 180, even more preferably 60 to 180, even more preferably 80 to 180, even more preferably 100 to 160 receptacles.

[0084] Receptacle The receptacles preferably extend from a first surface of the structure. Preferred receptacles are elongated. Preferred receptacles have a first end and a further end opposite the first end. The first end of one receptacle of the plurality of receptacles preferably has a first opening for receiving a container. In other words, one receptacle of the first plurality of receptacles preferably is adapted and arranged so that a container can be inserted into and / or removed from the respective receptacle at the first end. Preferably, the further end of one receptacle of the plurality of receptacles has a further opening. The further opening at the further end of one receptacle of the plurality of receptacles preferably is adapted and arranged to allow a portion of the container to extend out of the receptacle when the container is received in the receptacle.

[0085] A receptacle adapted and arranged to elastically deform should preferably be understood as follows: the receptacle has a first shape; upon application of a force, the receptacle (e.g., a sidewall) deforms to have a further shape; and upon removal of the force, the receptacle at least partially returns to having the first shape.

[0086] Protrusions and ridges The protrusion preferably comprises a polymer. Examples of preferred polymers include polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), and cyclic olefin polymer (COP). Polypropylene is particularly preferred for the protrusion. The protrusion is preferably integrally formed with the sidewall of one of the multiple receptacles. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protrusion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sidewall of the receptacle.

[0087] The protuberance preferably comprises a polymer. Examples of preferred polymers include polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), and cyclic olefin polymer (COP). Polypropylene is particularly preferred for the protuberance. The protuberance is preferably integrally formed with the sidewall of one of the receptacles. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protuberance extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sidewall of the receptacle.

[0088] The feature "the side wall of each receptacle has at least one section with a curved surface, and at least one section forms at least one ridge" should be understood to mean that the ridge has a curved surface. The curvature of the surface of the section of the side wall that forms the ridge is preferably perpendicular to the length of each receptacle.

[0089] Protrusions located on the ridge In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one protrusion is disposed on at least one ridge. This embodiment should not be understood to mean that the number of protrusions is necessarily equal to the number of ridges. The number of protrusions may be greater than, equal to, or less than the number of ridges. Rather, the preferred embodiment should be understood to mean that each protrusion is disposed on a ridge. For example, each receptacle of the structure has four protrusions and two ridges, with two protrusions disposed on each of the two ridges. For example, each receptacle of the structure has four protrusions and four ridges, with one protrusion disposed on each of the four ridges. For example, each receptacle of the structure has two protrusions and four ridges, with one protrusion disposed on two of the ridges, and the remaining ridge has no protrusions.

[0090] container The container referred to herein comprises a container wall that at least partially surrounds the internal volume of the container. The container referred to herein is designed to contain a composition such that the inside of the container wall (i.e., the side of the container wall facing the internal volume) and / or a coating layer (e.g., a lubricating layer) on the inside of the container wall can directly contact the composition. Preferred containers are suitable for use in containing pharmaceutical compositions and / or cosmetic compositions.

[0091] The first end of the container preferably includes a first orifice that allows the composition to be filled into the interior volume of the container. Preferably, the first orifice also allows the composition to be released from the interior volume.

[0092] The internal volume of the container refers to the total volume of the container.This volume can be determined by filling the internal volume with water up to the brim of the container and measuring the volume of the amount of water that the internal volume can occupy up to the brim.Therefore, the internal volume used herein is not the nominal volume that is often referred to in the pharmaceutical technical field.This nominal volume may, for example, be smaller than the internal volume.The filling volume should preferably be understood as the volume of the composition in the container.

[0093] The container according to the present invention can have any size or shape that a person skilled in the art would deem appropriate in the context of the present invention. Preferred containers have at least one section that is cylindrical. Preferred containers are elongated.

[0094] Preferred containers, more preferably the container wall, comprise at least one glass, at least one polymer, or a combination thereof, more preferably consisting of these. The glass may be any type of glass and may have any composition deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art in the context of the present invention. Preferably, the glass is suitable for pharmaceutical compositions. Preferred glasses are Type I according to the definition of glass types in section 3.2.1 of the European Pharmacopoeia, 7th edition from 2011. Examples of preferred glasses include borosilicate glass, fused silica, and combinations thereof. Particularly preferred glasses are borosilicate glass. Examples of preferred polymers include polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, cyclic olefin copolymers (COC), and cyclic olefin polymers (COP). Here, cyclic olefin copolymers (COC) and cyclic olefin polymers (COP) are particularly preferred.

[0095] Examples of preferred containers include cartridges, vials, ampoules, carpules, and syringes. Preferably, all containers of the plurality of containers are the same type of container, preferably selected from the above examples of preferred containers. Preferred syringes are made of glass or polymer.

[0096] Additionally or alternatively, preferred syringes have an internal volume ranging from 0.5 to 100 ml, preferably from 0.5 to 80 ml, and more preferably from 0.5 to 60 ml. Additionally or alternatively, preferred syringes include a body portion, also referred to as a barrel, which is preferably cylindrical. Preferred barrels of syringes have a diameter ranging from 5 to 50 mm, more preferably from 6 to 45 mm, even more preferably from 8 to 40 mm, and most preferably from 9 to 35 mm. Particularly preferably, the barrel is made of glass or polymer.

[0097] A preferred container, more preferably the container wall, more preferably the surface of the container wall facing the internal volume of the container, comprises at least one coating layer. Here, the coating layer is preferably understood as a layer applied by any method known to those skilled in the pharmaceutical industry. These methods include applying the coating layer by spraying or wiping the coating layer onto the container wall facing the internal volume of the container. A preferred coating layer is a lubricating layer. A preferred lubricating layer comprises silicone. A preferred lubricating layer reduces friction when a component of the container moves within the internal volume of the container. Here, an example of a component is a syringe plunger, and the syringe is an example of a container. For example, the lubricating layer reduces the force required to move the plunger within the barrel of the syringe.

[0098] A preferred container has a first section and a further section, the diameter of which is greater than the diameter of the first section. Preferably, the further section is the body of the container, and the further section is a closure adapted and arranged to close the container. For example, the first section is the barrel of a syringe, and the further section is the cap of the syringe.

[0099] Pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions In the context of the present invention, any pharmaceutical composition and any cosmetic composition deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art are contemplated. A pharmaceutical composition is a composition containing at least one pharmaceutically active ingredient. A preferred pharmaceutically active ingredient is a vaccine. A cosmetic composition is a composition containing at least one cosmetically active ingredient. A preferred cosmetic active ingredient is hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin. Pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions may be fluid or solid, or both, with fluid compositions being particularly preferred herein. Preferred solid compositions are granules such as powders, multiple tablets, or multiple capsules. Further preferred pharmaceutical and / or cosmetic compositions are parenteral, i.e., compositions intended to be administered via a parenteral route, which may be any route other than enteral. Parenteral administration can be performed, for example, by injection using a needle (usually a hypodermic needle) and syringe, or by insertion of an indwelling catheter.

[0100] The present invention will now be described by way of non-limiting examples and exemplary embodiments.

[0101] Drawing List The drawings serve to illustrate the invention and should not be considered as limiting the invention. Further, the drawings are not drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0102] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a cross section of a structure according to the invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of one receptacle of the plurality of receptacles. [Figure 3A] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the definition of a protrusion. [Figure 3B] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the definition of a protrusion. [Figure 3C] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the definition of a protrusion. [Figure 3D] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the definition of a protrusion. [Figure 3E] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the definition of a protrusion. [Figure 4] 1 is an isometric view of a structure according to the present invention; [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a receptacle of a structure according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a receptacle among a plurality of receptacles. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram illustrating steps in a method for transporting multiple containers. [Figure 8A] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative embodiments of protrusions. [Figure 8B] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative embodiments of protrusions. [Figure 8C] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative embodiments of protrusions. [Figure 8D] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative embodiments of protrusions. [Figure 9A] Cross-section of the receptacle used in the simulation. [Figure 9B] Cross-section of the receptacle used in the simulation. [Figure 10] 10 is a graph showing a simulation result.

[0103] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a structure 100 according to the present invention. Structure 100 comprises a plurality of receptacles, such as receptacle 101 (for illustrative purposes, only two receptacles are shown). The receptacles of the plurality of receptacles will be described using receptacle 101 as an example. Receptacle 101 has a sidewall 102 that defines an interior 103 of receptacle 101. Receptacle 101 is elongated and has a first end 104 and a further end 105A. Sidewall 102 comprises protrusions, such as protrusion 106, and ridges, such as ridge 107, that extend into interior 103. The protrusions and ridges are integrally formed with the sidewall of the receptacle. FIG. 1 also shows that ridge 107 extends along the length of receptacle 101. However, ridge 107 does not extend along the entire length of receptacle 101. Receptacle 101 is adapted and arranged to receive a container, such as container 108. Container 108 is for containing a pharmaceutical composition. Container 108 has a first end 109 and a further end 110. When the container is received in one of the receptacles, a gap is formed between a first segment of the container and a first segment of the receptacle's sidewall. An example is gap 111 shown in FIG. 1 formed between container 108 and ridge 112 (ridge 112 forming part of the sidewall). This gap 111 is formed due to the presence of a protrusion (but could also be formed due to the presence of a ridge). More preferably, gap 111 is formed at least at the further end 105B of receptacle 101, thereby reducing contact between container 108 and the further end 105B of the receptacle that holds the container (the further end of the receptacle very often has sharp edges that are particularly damaging to the container when the container comes into contact with said edges). A gap at the further end of the receptacle is particularly preferred when the receptacle narrows towards the further end of the receptacle (see FIG. 2).

[0104] As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the container 108 is a flanged syringe. That is, the first end 109 (flange) has a dimension larger than the average diameter of the container 108. The receptacle 101 is correspondingly adapted and arranged to have a further segment 113 adapted and arranged to receive the flange of the syringe. Preferably, the further segment 113 is sized such that when the container is received in the receptacle 101, only a portion of the container extends above the first surface 114 of the structure 100. Alternatively, the further segment 113 can be sized such that when the container is received in the receptacle 101, no portion of the container extends above the first surface 114 of the structure 100 (this includes having the top of the further segment 113 be flush with or below the first surface 114). The length 135 of the receptacle 101 is defined as the distance between the first end 104 and the further end 105, measured along the further direction 115. In Figure 1, further direction 115 is perpendicular to both first surface 114 and first direction 134. Figure 1 also shows that portions of side walls 121 and 102 of adjacent receptacles do not point toward each other, thereby forming a space or gap 122 between adjacent receptacles, which allows the receptacle to elastically deform during insertion and removal of a container into and from the receptacle.

[0105] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a variation of receptacle 200 among the multiple receptacles. The diameter of receptacle 200 measured at point 116 is larger than the diameter of receptacle 200 measured at point 117. Point 116 is located closer to first end 104 than to further end 105 of receptacle 200. Point 117 is located at further end 105. Thus, receptacle 101 narrows toward further end 105. FIG. 2 also shows that receptacle 200 has an additional segment 113 for receiving, for example, a syringe flange. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the sidewall of additional segment 113 slopes toward interior 103 of receptacle 200. Note that having a receptacle with a diameter that varies along its length does not require additional segments such as additional segment 113. If the receptacle has additional segments, the sidewalls of the additional segments need not be sloped. The length 135 of the receptacle 200 is also measured along an additional direction 115 between the first end 104 and the additional end 105 of the receptacle. This additional direction 115 is parallel to an additional imaginary line 136 that passes through the center of the receptacle 200.

[0106] 3A-3E show how the dimensions of the protrusion are measured. FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of a portion of the protrusion 106 and a receptacle. The cross section is taken along the length of the receptacle; i.e., FIG. 3A is a side view of the protrusion 106. The protrusion 106 is disposed a further distance 118 of xL from the further end 105, where L is the length of the receptacle on which the protrusion 106 is disposed. The further distance 118 is measured from the further end 105 to the point on the protrusion 106 closest to the further end 105. An additional distance of x=0 indicates that the point on the protrusion closest to the further end of the receptacle is disposed flush with the further end 105, and an additional distance of x=0.5 indicates that the point on the protrusion closest to the further end of the receptacle is disposed in the center of the receptacle. Also, 0≦x<1. The protrusion 106 is also disposed at a further distance 130 of yL from the further end 105 of the receptacle. The further distance 130 is measured from the further end 105 to the point on the protrusion 106 that is furthest from the further end 105. A value of y=1 indicated that the point on the protrusion that is furthest from the further end of the receptacle is disposed flush with the first end of the receptacle. The further distance 118 and the further distance 130 are measured along a further direction 115, which is parallel to a further imaginary line that passes through the center of the receptacle (see FIG. 3C).

[0107] 3A also shows how the first distance 119 of the protrusion 106 is measured. The first distance 119 in FIG. 3A is measured from the side wall 102 to the point on the protrusion 106 that is closest to a further imaginary line (see further imaginary line 136 in FIG. 2) that passes through the center of the receptacle. If the protrusion 106 is located on a ridge, the distance is measured from the ridge to the point on the protrusion that is closest to the further imaginary line. The first distance 119 is measured along the first direction 134.

[0108] Figure 3B is similar to Figure 3A, with the following difference: the side wall 102 of the receptacle in Figure 3B is disposed at an angle to the further direction 115 (whereas in Figure 3A the side wall is disposed parallel to the further direction). The further distance 118 and the further distance 130 are measured as shown in Figure 3B, i.e., parallel to the further direction 115 (rather than along a direction parallel to the side wall 102).

[0109] The measurement of first distance 119 is further illustrated in Figures 3C and 3D, which are schematic diagrams showing a cross section of a protrusion 106 and a portion of a receptacle. Figure 3C shows a portion of a receptacle having a sidewall 102 parallel to a further direction 115. A further imaginary line 136 passes through the center of the receptacle. The further imaginary line 136 is also parallel to the further direction 115. Point 137 on protrusion 106 is the point on that protrusion that is closest to the further imaginary line 136 (indicated by distance 138) when measured along first direction 134. First distance 119 is measured between sidewall 102 and point 137 along first direction 134. Figure 3D shows a portion of a receptacle having a sidewall 102 disposed at an angle to the further direction 115. The further imaginary line 136 passes through the center of the receptacle (see also Figure 2). A further imaginary line 136 is also parallel to the further direction 115. A point 137 on the protrusion 106 is the point on that protrusion that is closest to the further imaginary line 136 (as indicated by a distance 138) when measured along the first direction 134. A first distance 119 is measured along the first direction 134 between the sidewall 102 and the point 137.

[0110] FIG. 3E illustrates how the surface area of ​​the sidewall covered by the protrusion is determined. FIG. 3E is a schematic diagram showing the protrusion 106 as viewed from the front (i.e., in the direction 129 shown in FIG. 3A, perpendicular to the sidewall 102). The protrusion 106 is positioned on the sidewall 102. An imaginary rectangle 120 is drawn around the protrusion 106 (a square is an example of a rectangle). The rectangle 120 is selected as the smallest rectangle (i.e., the rectangle with the smallest surface area) that encloses all points of the protrusion 106. The surface area of ​​the rectangle 120 is defined as the surface area of ​​the sidewall 102 covered by the protrusion 106. Note that the surface area of ​​the protrusion and the surface area of ​​the sidewall covered by the protrusion are two different features. For example, a protrusion in the form of a hemisphere has a surface area of ​​2πr 2 where r is the radius of the protrusion. This hemispherical protrusion has a surface area of ​​4r 2 (The rectangle 120 enclosing the protrusion is a square with sides 2r).

[0111] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a structure 400 according to the present invention, which includes a plurality of receptacles, such as receptacle 101. FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a receptacle of a structure according to the present invention. The cross-sectional cut is parallel to the length of the receptacle. Receptacle 101A has a sidewall 102 having several sections with curved surfaces. These sections form ridges, such as ridge 107A, that extend into the interior of receptacle 101A (adjacent receptacle 101B, for example, has ridge 107B). The ridges extend along substantially the entire length of receptacle 101A. The ridges are also integrally formed with and filled into sidewall 102. Disposed on the ridges are protrusions 106 (indicated by arrows) that also extend into the interior of receptacle 101A. The protrusions 106 are disposed on the ridges, such that each protrusion is disposed on a different ridge. It can also be seen from Figure 5 that protrusion 106 is elliptical in shape, i.e., the perimeter of the base of the protrusion is elliptical (the base of the protrusion is where the protrusion meets the ridge). Figure 5 further shows that portions of side walls 102 and 121 of adjacent receptacles 101A and 101B, respectively, do not meet, thereby forming a gap or space 122.

[0112] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional cut of one of the receptacles taken perpendicular to the length of the receptacle. Figure 6 shows that sidewall 102A of receptacle 101A has several sections, such as section 123, with curved surfaces. These curved portions form ridges 107 (indicated by arrows) that extend into interior 103 of receptacle 101A.

[0113] FIG. 6 also illustrates how the maximum and minimum diameters of a receptacle are measured. As shown for receptacle 101B, the maximum diameter is measured between the two points on sidewall 102B that are furthest from each other, and a first imaginary line 124 connecting these two furthest points passes through center 126 of receptacle 101B. The length of first imaginary line 124 is the maximum diameter. The minimum diameter is measured between the two points on sidewall 102B that are closest to each other, and a second imaginary line 125 connecting these two closest points passes through center 126 of receptacle 101B. The length of second imaginary line 125 is the minimum diameter. In FIG. 6, the minimum diameter is measured between two ridges. If the sidewall has protrusions located on ridges, the two closest points may be located on two ridges located opposite each other on the sidewall. FIG. 6 also illustrates how the width 127 of the ridges is measured.

[0114] 6 also shows that at least 50% but less than 100% of the circumference of receptacles 101A and 101B is in the form of a ridge. Receptacle 101A has sections, such as section 128, that do not have curved surfaces that form ridges that extend into interior 103. Note, however, that section 128 may have curved surfaces that extend away from interior 103.

[0115] 7 is a flow diagram illustrating steps of a method for transporting a plurality of containers. In step 701, a structure according to the present invention is provided. In step 702, a plurality of containers are received within the structure. In step 703, the structure and the plurality of containers are transported from a first location to a further location.

[0116] 8A-8D are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative embodiments of protrusions. FIGS. 8A-8D show a receptacle 101 having an additional end 105. Protrusion 106E is a first embodiment, in the form of a hemisphere. Protrusions 106A-106D, arranged on a ridge 107, are further embodiments. FIG. 8D shows protrusion 106D extending along substantially the entire length of receptacle 101. In FIGS. 8C and 8D, it can be seen that the upper surfaces 131 of protrusions 106C and 106D are inclined between points 132 and 133 on the protrusions. Point 133 is also the point closest to a further imaginary line passing through the center of the receptacle, i.e., the point from which first distance 119 is measured.

[0117] Example The present invention will be further explained by way of examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0118] Example 1 Comparative Example 1.1: A structure having a plurality of receptacles is provided. The receptacles have an average length of 20 mm. The receptacles have a cylindrical shape. Therefore, the side walls of the receptacles have no ridges. The side walls also have no protrusions. A plurality of containers in the form of glass syringes are received within the structure.

[0119] Example 1.2: A structure similar to that of Example 1.1 is provided. However, each receptacle of the structure of Example 1.2 has a sidewall with six protrusions spaced equidistantly around the circumference of the sidewall. The protrusions have the same shape as shown in Figure 5. The protrusions extend a first distance of 0.5 mm into the interior of the receptacle and are positioned a further distance of 1 mm from the further end (or bottom) of the receptacle. Each protrusion is 0.5 mm 2 Multiple containers in the form of glass syringes are also acceptable for the construction of Example 1.2.

[0120] Example 1.3: A structure similar to that of Example 1.1 is provided. However, each receptacle of the structure of Example 1.3 has a sidewall with six ridges spaced equidistantly around the circumference of the sidewall (e.g., FIG. 6). The ridges extend into the interior of the receptacle and along 97% of the length of the receptacle. Multiple containers in the form of glass syringes can also be accommodated in the structure of Example 1.3.

[0121] Example 1.4: A structure is provided that is a combination of the structures of Examples 1.2 and 1.3, i.e., the receptacles each have six ridges and six protrusions, with the ridges arranged on the ridges (see, e.g., Figure 5).

[0122] Table 1 compares the structures of Examples 1.1 to 1.4.

[0123] [Table 1]

[0124] The technical effects in Table 1 are as follows: - Surface pressure on syringe: the amount of pressure exerted by the receptacle on the syringe received in that receptacle. "+" indicates more pressure, "-" indicates less pressure. It is desirable to reduce the pressure. Contact between syringe and further end of receptacle: The percentage of the syringe's outer surface that is in contact with the further end of the receptacle in which the syringe is received. "+" indicates a larger percentage, and "-" indicates a smaller percentage. Because the further end has sharp edges, it is desirable to reduce contact between the syringe's outer surface and the further end of the sidewall. - Particle count on syringe: The number of visible and / or subvisible particles present on the external and internal surfaces of the syringe. "+" indicates a high particle count and "-" indicates a low particle count. Reducing particle count is desirable. Visible particles have a size of at least 0.3 mm, and subvisible particles have a size greater than 10 μm. - Particle count on receptacle: The number of visible and / or sub-visible particles present on the sidewall of the receptacle. "+" indicates a high particle count and "-" indicates a low particle count. It is desirable to reduce the particle count. Visible particles have a size of at least 0.3 mm, and sub-visible particles have a size of more than 10 μm. - Damage to syringe during insertion / removal: Damage to the syringe that occurs during insertion and removal of the syringe from the structure. "+" indicates more damage and "-" indicates less damage. It is desirable to reduce this damage. Damage to structures during insertion / removal: Damage to structures that occurs during insertion and removal of the syringe from the structure. "+" indicates more damage and "-" indicates less damage. It is desirable to reduce this damage. Syringe tilt: how much the syringe tilts when received in the receptacle. "+" indicates a large tilt, "-" indicates a small tilt. Reducing the tilt is desirable. - Usefulness for syringes with varying diameters: whether the structure can be used for syringes with varying diameters (e.g., a syringe with a cap where the cap has a diameter larger than the diameter of the syringe barrel). A "+" indicates that the structure can be used for syringes with large diameter variations, and a "-" indicates that the structure can only be used for syringes with small diameter variations. It is desirable that the structure can be used for syringes with larger diameter variations.

[0125] Example 2 The example is the same as Example 1.4, except that the first distance that the protrusion extends into the interior of the receptacle is varied as shown in Table 2.

[0126] [Table 2]

[0127] The technical effects of Table 2 are the same as those described for Table 1.

[0128] Example 3 The example is the same as example 1.4, with the difference that the further distance between the protrusion and the further end of the receptacle is varied as shown in Table 3.

[0129] [Table 3]

[0130] The technical effects of Table 3 are the same as those described for Table 1.

[0131] Example 4 In Example 4, finite element simulations were performed on the elastic deformation of a container when a force was applied to the sidewall of the receptacle. In Example 4.1, the cross-section of the receptacle taken perpendicular to the length of the receptacle has a circular configuration (i.e., the receptacle does not have any ridges). This is shown in Figure 9A. In Examples 4.2-4.4, the receptacle has ridges. The cross-section of the receptacle taken perpendicular to the length of the receptacle has the shape shown in Figure 9B. In Figures 9A and 9B, force 140 is applied at location 139 on the sidewall. Table 4 shows the configuration of the examples. The number and dimensions (e.g., width and length) of the ridges allow for variation in the stiffness of the receptacle. Stiffness is the degree to which the receptacle (e.g., sidewall) resists deformation in response to an applied force.

[0132] [Table 4]

[0133] The results are shown in Figure 10. It can be seen that the smaller the stiffness, the smaller the force required to obtain a specific displacement (elastic deformation) of the receptacle side wall. In other words, assuming the same force, a larger displacement of the receptacle side wall is obtained with reduced stiffness. Such reduced stiffness can be obtained by having a side wall with ridges. A smaller stiffness is advantageous during insertion and removal of the container from the receptacle, during transport of the container while it is received within the structure, and for reducing friction between the container and the receptacle side wall.

[0134] Test Method The following test methods were used within the scope of the present invention: Unless otherwise stated, measurements were made at an ambient temperature of 23° C., an ambient air pressure of 100 kPa (0.986 atm), and a relative air humidity of 50%.

[0135] Distance, length, height Distances, lengths, and heights are measured using calipers. These dimensions are measured as follows: The structure including the receptacle is placed on a flat surface. A first direction (see, for example, 134 in FIG. 1) is oriented parallel to the flat surface. A further direction (see, for example, 115 in FIG. 1) is oriented perpendicular to the flat surface and the first direction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 100 Structure 101 Receptacle 102 Side wall Inside the 103 receptacle 104 first end of receptacle 105 Further end of receptacle 106 Protrusion 107 Prominence 108 Container 109 First end of container 110 Further end of container 111 Gap 112 Prominence 113 Further segments of receptacle 114 First Surface of Structure 115 Further Directions 116 Receptacle points with larger diameter 117 Receptacle points with diameters smaller than 118 Further Distance 119 First Distance 120 Virtual Rectangle 121 Side walls of adjacent receptacles 122 Gaps formed between side walls of adjacent receptacles 123 Sidewall curved section 124 First Virtual Line 125 Second Virtual Line 126 Receptacle Center 127 Bump width 128 Section of sidewall that does not form a ridge 129 View direction 130 Further Distance 131 Top of receptacle 132 First point on receptacle 133 Second point on receptacle 134 First Direction 135 Receptacle Length 136 A further imaginary line passing through the centre of the receptacle 137 Further points closest to the imaginary line 138 Distance between the nearest point and a further imaginary line 139 Position where force is applied 140 Applied Force

Claims

1. A structure comprising a plurality of receptacles, a. the receptacle is adapted and arranged to receive a plurality of containers; b. each receptacle of the plurality of receptacles includes a sidewall defining an interior of the respective receptacle, the sidewall including at least one protrusion extending into the interior of the respective receptacle; The at least one protrusion extends a first distance into the interior of the respective receptacle, the first distance being in the range of >0-1.5 mm.

2. 2. The structure of claim 1, wherein each of the receptacles has a first end and a further end, and the at least one protrusion is located closer to the further end than to the first end.

3. 3. The structure of claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the receptacles has a first end and a further end, and wherein the at least one protrusion is disposed a further distance of xL from the further end of the respective receptacle, where L is a length of the respective receptacle and x is in the range of 0 to 0.

25.

4. The at least one protrusion is 15 mm ２ 4. The structure of claim 1, wherein the structure covers a surface area of ​​the sidewall of the respective receptacle that is less than or equal to 100 mm.

5. The structure of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each receptacle includes in the range of 1 to 10 protrusions.

6. A structure according to any preceding claim, wherein the internal diameter varies along the length of the respective receptacle.

7. 7. The structure of claim 1, wherein the at least one protrusion is adapted and arranged to create a gap between the first segment of the side wall and the first segment of the container when the container is received within the respective receptacle.

8. The structure of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the plurality of receptacles are adapted and arranged to deform when a plurality of containers are received within the receptacles.

9. 9. The structure of claim 1, wherein the sidewall of each receptacle has at least one section with a curved surface, the at least one section forming at least one ridge extending into the interior of the respective receptacle.

10. The structure of claim 9 , wherein the at least one protrusion is disposed on the at least one ridge.

11. 11. A structure according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the at least one ridge extends along at least 50% of the length of the respective receptacle.

12. 12. The structure of claim 9, wherein each receptacle comprises at least two ridges, and at least 20% of the periphery of the sidewall of each receptacle is in the form of the at least two ridges.

13. 1. A method for transporting a plurality of containers, comprising: Providing a structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12; b. receiving a plurality of containers within said structure; c) transporting said structure and said plurality of containers from a first location to an additional location.

14. Use of a structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12 for the transport of a plurality of containers received within said structure.

15. Use of a structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12, reducing contact between the further ends of the plurality of receptacles and the plurality of containers received within the receptacles; b. reducing contact between adjacent containers received within said structure; c. reducing the number of particles on the surface of the container received within the structure; d. reducing damage to the container when received within the structure; Use for at least one or all of them.

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