Container Seal Indication System

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure include a container closure indication system for indicating that a cap is fully engaged with a container and methods of using the same. The system may include a cap flag and a flag screen. The cap flag may be disposed on an underside of the cap and may extend downwardly away from the underside. The flag screen may be disposed on an exterior surface of the container adjacent an upper end of the container and extending toward the lower end of the container. The cap flag may be configured to be inserted behind the flag screen when the cap is lowered toward the upper end of the container. The flag screen may be configured to block the cap flag from view until the cap is fully engaged with the container. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen indicates that the container is closed by the cap. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen may be viewed automatically by a camera or by a user. The camera may communicate information regarding the closure of the container to an instrument on which the container is located.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 304,508, filed January 28, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] The container can be provided in an open or partially open state to allow a user to access the interior of the container, for example to add a substance to the interior of the container before closing the container.

[0003] The user must ensure that the container is completely closed; however, an incomplete or improper closure can lead to the spillage of materials present within the container.

[0004] Ensuring complete closure of the container is particularly important when the container contains biological material that may transmit disease or other harmful substances, such as caustic chemicals, skin or eye irritants, etc. In some cases, the container may be a cartridge used for automated or semi-automated sample preparation. In such cases, it may be desirable to have an automated or semi-automated system for indicating that the cartridge is completely closed with a cap after the biological sample has been introduced into the chamber of the cartridge and before processing the biological sample to, for example, isolate target analytes present in the biological sample. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] There is interest in suitable means for indicating the closure of a container to ensure that the container is completely closed, thereby reducing user error, the spread of harmful substances, and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure include a container closure indication system for indicating that a cap is fully engaged with a container. The system may include a cap flag and a flag screen. The cap may include a lower surface and an opposite upper surface. The cap flag may be located on the lower surface of the cap and may extend downwardly away from the lower surface. The flag screen may be located on an exterior surface of a container dimensioned to be closed by the cap. The flag screen may be located adjacent to the upper end of the container and may extend toward the lower end of the container. The cap flag may be configured to be inserted behind the flag screen when the cap is lowered toward the upper end of the container. The flag screen may be configured such that the cap flag is not visible when viewed from the front until the cap is fully engaged with the container. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen when viewed from the front indicates that the container is closed by the cap. The term "front" refers to a view from an exterior position relative to the container. The view may be from an exterior position that is approximately perpendicular to the surface of the cap flag and the flag screen, as opposed to a side, top, or bottom view, such that the front surface of the cap flag and the flag screen are visible. Thus, the front is relative to the observation position of the flag screen and cap flag, regardless of whether the container itself has designated front and rear regions based on the manner in which the container is used, etc. In other words, the front view refers to the view of the flag screen and cap flag from an outside observation position that is approximately perpendicular to the flag screen and cap flag. The cap flag and flag screen may be located in the front region or the rear region of the container.

[0007] The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen may be viewed by a user or by a camera. The camera may communicate information regarding the closure of the container to the device. The container may be placed in the device. The device may be programmed to begin processing the container upon receiving an indication that the container is closed.

[0008] A method for indicating closure of a container having a cap is also provided. The method may be a computer-implemented method, for example, executed by a processor configured to execute instructions stored and / or provided by a memory coupled to the processor. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A] 1 shows an image of a container closure viewing system including a camera. A front view of the system as viewed by the camera is shown. [Figure 1B] 1 shows an image of a container closure viewing system including a camera. A front view of the system as viewed by the camera is shown. [Figure 1C] 1 shows an image of a container closure viewing system including a camera. A front view of the system as viewed by the camera is shown. [Figure 1D] 1 shows an image of a container closure viewing system including a camera. A front view of the system as viewed by the camera is shown. [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates a cylindrical cartridge that may be used for sample preparation, the cylindrical cartridge including a container closure system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cylindrical cartridge shown in an open state with a cap separate from the cylindrical structure of the cartridge. [Figure 2B] 1 illustrates a cylindrical cartridge that may be used for sample preparation, the cylindrical cartridge including a container closure system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cylindrical cartridge shown in an open state with a cap separate from the cylindrical structure of the cartridge. [Figure 2C] 1 illustrates a cylindrical cartridge that may be used for sample preparation, the cylindrical cartridge including a container closure system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cylindrical cartridge shown in an open state with a cap separate from the cylindrical structure of the cartridge. [Figure 3A] 2A-2C show the sample preparation cartridge with the cap closed. [Figure 3B]2A-2C show the sample preparation cartridge with the cap closed. [Figure 4A] 1 shows the view from a camera for imaging a container closure system, and FIG. 2 shows a front view of the system as captured by the camera. [Figure 4B] 1 shows the field of view from a camera for imaging a container closure system, and FIGURE 2 shows a perspective side view of the system, showing the cap flag and flag screen, as well as the field of view of the camera cone. [Figure 4C] 1 shows the view from a camera for imaging a container closure system, and FIG. 2 shows a front view of the system as captured by the camera. [Figure 4D] 1 shows the view from a camera for imaging the container closure system. [Figure 5A] 13 shows a user closing the cap onto the top end of the sample preparation cartridge. [Figure 5B] 13 shows a user closing the cap onto the top end of the sample preparation cartridge. [Figure 5C] 13 shows a user closing the cap onto the top end of the sample preparation cartridge. [Figure 5D] 13 shows a user closing the cap onto the top end of the sample preparation cartridge. [Figure 5E] 13 shows a user closing the cap onto the top end of the sample preparation cartridge. [Figure 6A] 1 shows a cylindrical cartridge with a cap having a cap flag and a cylindrical structure having a flag screen. [Figure 6B] 1 shows a cylindrical cartridge with a cap having a cap flag and a cylindrical structure having a flag screen. [Figure 6C] 1 shows a cylindrical cartridge with a cap having a cap flag and a cylindrical structure having a flag screen. [Figure 6D] 1 shows a cylindrical cartridge with a cap having a cap flag and a cylindrical structure having a flag screen. [Figure 6E]6A-6D show detailed views of the cap flag and flag screen. [Figure 6F] FIG. 6B shows a detailed view of the cap flag and flag screen shown in FIGS. 6A-6D. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the relative alignment of a container with a container closure system and a camera for imaging the container closure system. A QR code serves as a positive control to indicate proper alignment between the camera and the container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Aspects of the present disclosure include a container closure indication system for indicating that a cap is fully engaged with a container. The system may include a cap flag and a flag screen. The cap may include a lower surface and an opposite upper surface. The cap flag may be disposed on the lower surface of the cap and may extend downwardly away from the lower surface. The flag screen may be disposed on an exterior surface of a container dimensioned to be closed by the cap. The flag screen may be disposed adjacent to an upper end of the container and may extend toward a lower end of the container. The cap flag may be configured to be inserted behind the flag screen when the cap is lowered toward the upper end of the container. The flag screen may be configured such that the cap flag is not visible when viewed from a position in front of the flag screen until the cap is fully engaged with the container. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen when viewed from a frontal view indicates that the container is closed by the cap. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen may be visible by a user or a camera. The camera may communicate information regarding the closure of the container to an instrument. The container may be disposed within the instrument. The instrument may be programmed to begin processing the container upon receiving an indication that the container is closed. Also provided herein is a method for detecting closure of a container. In certain embodiments, the method utilizes a camera for semi-automatic or automatic detection of complete closure of the container. In certain embodiments, the method includes a computer-implemented method for detecting closure of the container.

[0011] Before describing the present systems, sample preparation devices, and methods in more detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular embodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0012] When a range of values ​​is provided, it is understood that each value between the upper and lower limits of the range, to the nearest tenth of the lower limit, and any other stated or intervening value within the stated range, is included in the systems, sample preparation devices, and methods, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may each be included in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed by the systems, sample preparation devices, and methods, subject to any specifically excluded upper or lower limit of the stated range. When a stated range includes one or both of the upper and lower limits, ranges excluding one or both of those included upper and lower limits are also included in the systems, sample preparation devices, and methods.

[0013] In this specification, the word "about" is used before numerical values ​​to indicate a particular range. In this specification, the word "about" provides literal support for the exact number it precedes, as well as the words "close" or "approximately" before a number. When determining whether a number is close to or close to a specifically stated number, the close or non-approximate number can be considered to be a number that is substantially equivalent to the specifically stated number in the context in which it is presented.

[0014] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice and testing of the present systems, sample preparation devices and methods, representative example systems, sample preparation devices and methods are described herein.

[0015] All publications and patents cited herein are incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference, and are incorporated by reference herein to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials in connection with which the publications are cited. The citation of any publication is for its disclosure prior to the filing date and should not be construed as an admission that the invention is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the publication dates provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which will need to be confirmed individually.

[0016] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should be further noted that the claims may be written to exclude any element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as a predicate to the use of exclusive language such as "solely," "only," and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a "negative" limitation.

[0017] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has distinct components and features which may be readily separated or combined with the features of any of the other embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present sample preparation cartridges, methods and sample preparation units. Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order which is logically possible.

[0018] System for indicating complete closure of a container Aspects of the present disclosure include a container closure indication system for indicating that a cap is fully engaged with a container. The system may include a cap flag and a flag screen. The cap may include a lower surface and an opposite upper surface. The cap flag may be disposed on the lower surface of the cap and may extend downwardly away from the lower surface. The flag screen may be disposed on an outer surface of a container dimensioned to be closed by the cap. The flag screen may be disposed adjacent to an upper end of the container and may extend toward a lower end of the container. The cap flag may be configured to be inserted behind the flag screen when the cap is lowered toward the upper end of the container. The flag screen may be configured such that the cap flag is invisible when viewed from a position generally in front of the flag screen and the outer surface of the container until the cap is fully engaged with the container. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen when viewed from a generally in frontal position indicates that the container is closed by the cap. The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen may be visible by a user or a camera. The camera may communicate information regarding the closure of the container to an instrument. The instrument may have a container disposed therein. The device may be programmed to begin processing the container upon receiving an indication that the container is closed.

[0019] As used herein, the term "fully engaged" in the context of a cap and a container refers to a full closure of the container by the cap such that the container is fluid-tight by the cap. "Fluid-tight" means that fluid present inside the container cannot easily flow out of the opening of the container sealed by the cap. In certain embodiments, the term "fully engaged" can also include a configuration in which the cap is in a locked position and cannot be easily opened by applying upward pressure, twisting pressure, or the like, on the cap that forces the cap and container apart. Such a locked position can help prevent reuse of the container, for example, with respect to a disposable container.

[0020] As used herein, the term "distal end" refers to an end located further away from a reference point compared to a proximal end located closer to the reference point. The terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are used to indicate orientation relative to an absolute reference, e.g., the Earth's surface. However, these terms should not be interpreted as requiring that structures be perfectly parallel or perfectly vertical to each other. For example, a first vertical structure and a second vertical structure are not necessarily parallel. The terms "top" and "bottom" or "up" or "down" are used to refer to a surface with an absolute reference, e.g., the top always being higher than the bottom, relative to the Earth's surface. The terms "upward" and "downward" are also relative to an absolute reference. Upward is always the direction against the Earth's gravity, and downward is always the direction of the Earth's gravity.

[0021] The cap may include a lower surface and an upper surface. The cap may be any suitable shape. The cap may have a shape that generally matches the shape of the top end of the container. The cap may have a size larger than the top end of the container such that the cap can surround the top end. The cap may have a size smaller than the top end of the container such that the cap can fit inside the top end. In some cases, both the cap and the top end of the container may be circular, rectangular, oval, or have an irregular shape.

[0022] The cap flag may include a first region proximate the underside of the cap and a second region distal from the underside of the cap. The cap flag may be located in any region of the cap. In some cases, the cap flag may be located at or near the edge of the cap. The cap flag may have any suitable shape. The cap flag may be generally rectangular or square in shape, or may have an irregular shape. In some cases, the cap flag may be generally cylindrical in shape. In some cases, the cap flag may be generally flat, rather than spherical or cylindrical.

[0023] The flag screen may include a first region proximate the top end of the container and a second region distal from the top end of the container. The flag screen may be positioned at or near the edge of the container such that the flag screen is visible from the outside. The surface area of ​​the second region of the cap flag may be greater than the surface area of ​​the second region of the flag screen. The surface area of ​​the second region of the cap flag may be approximately the same as the surface area of ​​the first region of the flag screen such that when the cap is lowered towards the container but not fully engaged with the container, the second region of the cap flag is covered by the first region of the flag screen and when the cap is fully engaged with the container, the second region of the cap flag is behind the second region of the flag screen and is at least partially visible. The cap flag and the flag screen may both be generally flat in shape. The cap flag and the flag screen may be generally flat and generally rectangular. The cap flag and the flag screen may be generally flat or may have an irregular shape.

[0024] The flag screen and the cap flag may be staggered relative to each other, being partially offset relative to each other rather than substantially overlapping. The staggered arrangement does not completely overlap such that the cap flag is visible behind the flag screen when the cap is closed. The container closure indication system may include a guide member, the guide member being arranged to displace the cap flag relative to the flag screen such that at least a second region of the cap flag is forced behind a first region of the flag screen such that the two regions overlap such that the cap flag is hidden behind the flag screen when the cap is forced onto the top end of the container but not fully closed. The system may further include a space behind the flag screen into which the cap flag is inserted to close the container. The space may be a through hole. The guide member may be configured to release the lateral displacement of the cap flag when the cap flag is inserted into the space. In some cases, the guide member and the first region of the cap flag are shaped such that the guide member does not exert pressure on the cap flag when the cap is fully closed. In some cases, the first region of the cap flag may include an indentation or similar structure such that the first region does not contact the guide member when the cap is closed.

[0025] The container may include a flange disposed on or adjacent to the outer surface and top end of the container. The flag screen may extend from a lower surface of the flange. The flange may include a through hole configured to insert the cap flag behind the flag screen. The through hole may include a guide member configured to laterally displace a second region of the cap flag relative to the flag screen when the cap is pressed against the top end of the container. The first region of the cap flag may include a notch that does not contact the guide member, thereby stopping the lateral displacement of the cap flag when the cap is fully engaged with the container. The notch may be any suitable shape. The notch may be rectangular, square, circular, oval, or irregularly shaped. The notch may have a shape that fits the through hole in the flange. In other words, the notch may be sized and shaped to fit the thickness of the flange such that the cap flag can return to its original staggered position relative to the flag screen and be visible behind the flag screen.

[0026] The guide member and the lower edge (e.g., corner) of the cap flag may have complementary shapes to increase contact between the guide member and the cap flag when the cap is lowered towards the container and the lower edge of the cap flag presses against the guide member. For example, the guide member can have a sloped edge configured to contact the cap flag, and the area of ​​the cap flag that contacts the guide member also has a sloped edge with a slope angle that is approximately complementary to the slope angle of the sloped edge of the guide member.

[0027] The cap flag may be made of an elastomeric material that can bend when pressure is applied and spring back to its original shape when pressure is removed. Examples of elastomeric materials include plastics (e.g., thermoplastic), hardened rubbers (synthetic or natural), silicones, etc.

[0028] The cap flag and the flag screen may be complementary colors. Complementary colors can facilitate detection of the appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen. For example, the flag screen may have a white color and lighter colors and shades thereof, and the cap flag may have a black color and darker colors and shades thereof.

[0029] The system for indicating closure of the container may also include a camera arranged to image a second area of ​​the flag screen and automatically indicate closure of the container when the cap flag is at least partially visible behind the flag screen. The image acquired by the camera may be analyzed in real time to indicate whether the cap is closed. The means for analyzing the image observed by the camera may be on-board the device on which the camera or the container is located, or may be remote means, for example on a server. Such means are known in the field of digital image analysis and may include cloud computing.

[0030] Further details of particular embodiments of the system of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to certain figures. However, the systems shown in the figures are exemplary and may be modified based on the general knowledge and / or guidance provided in this disclosure.

[0031] 1A-1D show a container closure indication system including a camera. A front view of the system from the camera is shown in FIG. 1A-1D. In FIG. 1A and FIG. 1C, the lower area of ​​the flag screen 102 is visible to the camera. The cap is not fully engaged with the container, so the cap flag 101 is not visible. In FIG. 1B and FIG. 1D, the cap is fully engaged with the container, so that the lower area of ​​the cap flag 101 appears behind the flag screen 102 and is visible to the camera. Also visible in FIG. 1A-1D is a rectangular area 111 that is approximately centered relative to the camera's field of view. This rectangular area may be used to contain a bar code, QR code, or the like. The code may be printed directly on the container or may be printed on a substrate that is affixed to the container. The code may be used to assign a unique identifier to the container. The unique identifier may include information such as the type of container, the contents of the container, the manufacturing date, the batch number, the item number, and the like. The rectangular area may also serve as a positive control to ensure that the container is properly positioned relative to the camera. For example, if an image (e.g., a code, a barcode, a QR code) present on the rectangular area is detected by the camera and the cap flag is not detected, the system indicates that the cap is not closed. In certain embodiments, the system prompts the user to close the cap. If the image is not detected by the camera, the system can prompt the user to align the container, or the system can adjust the position of the container to align the container.

[0032] The cap flag and flag screen as shown in FIG. 1A-FIG. 1D may be included in any type of cap and container, respectively. The cap flag and flag screen may be located in any exterior area of ​​the container such that the cap flag and flag screen are visible from an exterior position. In some cases, the cap flag and flag screen may be located in a front area or a rear area of ​​the container. In some cases, the system of the present disclosure may be used to indicate the closure of a sample preparation device. For example, the sample preparation device may be provided in an open configuration such that a sample can be added to the sample preparation device. The sample preparation device may be closed after the sample is introduced. The system of the present disclosure may indicate whether the sample preparation device is fully closed. As described above, the system may be used by a user to detect that the sample preparation device is fully closed based on visual inspection. The system may be used by an instrument to detect whether the sample preparation device is closed. The system may include a camera utilized by the instrument to image the appearance of the cap flag and thereby detect that the sample preparation device is closed. In some cases, the sample preparation device may be a cylindrical cartridge. In some cases, the cylindrical cartridge may be a cylindrical cartridge described in any one of International Application No. PCT / US2020 / 066926, filed December 23, 2020, U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 143494, 63 / 143587, and 63 / 143629, filed January 29, 2021, or International Application No. PCT / US2022 / 014422, filed January 28, 2022. The contents of these applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0033] An exemplary cylindrical cartridge including a container closure system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 2A-2C. The cylindrical cartridge 200 includes a cylindrical structure 210 and a cap 260. The cap 260 includes a top surface opposite a bottom surface. A cap flag 201 is disposed on the bottom surface of the cap 260. The cap flag 201 is shown enlarged in FIG. 2C. The cap flag 201 includes a first region 201a proximate the bottom surface of the cap 260 and a second region 201b distal from the bottom surface of the cap 260. In some embodiments, the first and second regions of the cap flag can have approximately the same size. In some embodiments, the first and second regions of the cap flag can have approximately different sizes. In one embodiment, the first region 201a is smaller in area than the second region 201b. In this example, the area of ​​the first region 201a is smaller than the area of ​​the second region due to the inclusion of a notch 203 at the side edge of the first region. The side edge of the second region 201b engages the guide member 216 located at the through hole 215 while the side edge of the first region 201a does not engage due to the presence of the notch 203. Also shown in Figures 2A-2C is a flange 220. The through hole 215 is in the flange behind the location of the flag screen. The flange 220 extends around the cylindrical structure 210. The width of the flange 220 may be uniform around the circumference of the flange or may vary. For example, the width of the flange 220 is wider at the location where the through hole 215 is located. In some embodiments, the width may be increased by a protrusion in the flange. In some embodiments, the cylindrical structure may include a recess that is an inwardly deformed annular wall that extends from the top to the bottom of the cylindrical structure. In some cases, the depth and location of the recess may be determined based on the position of a camera imaging the cap flag and flag screen, and / or a barcode, QR code, or another identifier placed in the recess.

[0034] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the cap 260 may include one or more alignment guides that facilitate proper alignment of the cap with the cylindrical structure. For example, the cap may include a centrally located rod-like structure that is inserted into a centrally located hollow shaft of the cylindrical structure. In some cases, the rod-like structure may include multiple fingers extending from a distal end of the rod-like structure. The protrusions may be disposed at the ends of the multiple fingers. The shaft in the cylindrical structure may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the rod-like structure and may further include multiple recesses on the inner surface that are complementary to the protrusions of the rod-like structure. This allows the cap to be spaced apart from the top end of the cylindrical structure when the protrusions are disposed in the recesses in the shaft. When downward pressure is applied to the cap, the protrusions disengage from the recesses, allowing the rod-like structure to move down the shaft. In FIGS. 2A-2C, the cap is in a spaced apart position relative to the cylindrical structure and the cylindrical structure is open, allowing access to the interior of the cylindrical structure.

[0035] 3A and 3B show the position of the cap flag 201 after the cap 260 is fully engaged with the cylindrical structure. For example, the cylindrical structure may include a chamber into which a sample to be prepared by the cylindrical cartridge may be introduced. After introduction of the sample, the cap may be pushed down towards the top end of the cylindrical structure. The appearance of at least a second region of the cap flag 201 behind the flag screen 202 indicates that the cap is fully engaged with the cylindrical structure and the sample preparation cartridge is closed and ready to be handled to process the sample. FIG. 3A shows a front view of the container closure system. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, the container closure system is disposed in a rear region of the cylindrical structure. The cylindrical structure is configured to be disposed within an instrument, with the rear region of the cylindrical structure facing away from the user towards the rear region of the instrument. In certain embodiments, the rear region of the instrument includes a camera positioned to observe the container closure system and record and / or communicate information regarding the closure of the cylindrical structure to the instrument and / or to the user. FIG. 3B shows a side view of the container closure system laterally offset from the front view.

[0036] Further details of the container closure indication system, including a camera for detecting the appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen, are shown in Figures 4A-4D. The shaded area 401 indicates the field of view of the camera used in the system for detecting complete closure of the container. In Figure 4A, only the second area of ​​the flag screen is in the field of view of the camera. Figures 4B and 4C show the system after the cap has been closed. Both the cap flag 201 and the second area of ​​the flag screen 202 are in the field of view of the camera. A top view of the system is shown in Figure 4D. The position of the cap flag 201 is staggered relative to the flag screen. In this particular example, the distance between the camera and the midpoint between the flag screen and the cap flag is about 18 mm.

[0037] FIG. 5A shows the relative positions of the cap flag 201 and the flag screen 202 when the cap is in an open position. The staggered arrangement of the flag screen and the cap flag can also be seen. Due to the staggered arrangement, if the cap flag is pushed into a position behind the flag screen, it will be visible behind the flag screen even if the cap is not fully closed. FIG. 5B shows that applying a downward force to the cap causes the lower edge corners of the cap flag to press against the guide members and displace the cap flag laterally, so that when the container is incompletely closed, the second region of the cap flag 201 overlaps with the first region of the flag screen and is not visible behind the flag screen (FIGS. 5C and 5D). When the container is fully closed, the pressure on the cap flag applied by the guide members 216 is removed, so that the cap flag moves to its original staggered position relative to the flag screen.

[0038] An exemplary cylindrical cartridge including a container closure system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 6A-6F. The cylindrical cartridge 600 includes a cylindrical structure 610 and a cap 660. The cap 660 includes an upper surface opposite a lower surface. A cap flag 601 is disposed on the lower surface of the cap 660. The cap flag 601 is shown enlarged in FIGS. 6E and 6F. The cap flag 601 includes a first region 601a proximate the lower surface of the cap 660 and a second region 601b distal from the lower surface of the cap 660. In some embodiments, the first and second regions of the cap flag may have approximately the same size. In some embodiments, the first and second regions of the cap flag may have approximately different sizes. In one embodiment, the first region 601a is narrower than the second region 601b. In this example, the width of the first region 601a is smaller than the width of the second region due to a notch in the side edge of the first region 601a. ​​The side edge of the second region 601b engages with the guide member 616 located immediately adjacent the through hole 615, while the side edge of the first region 601a does not engage with the guide member 616 due to the presence of the notch. In some embodiments, the cylindrical structure may include a recess that is an inward deformation of an annular wall that extends from the top to the bottom of the cylindrical structure. In some cases, the depth and location of the recess may be determined based on the location of a camera that images the cap flag and flag screen and / or a positive control indicia, such as a bar code, QR code, or another identifier, located in the recess. The flag screen 602 is located within the recess and extends downward from the top region of the cylindrical cartridge. The flag screen 602 is located immediately adjacent and in front of the through hole 615 into which the cap flag 601 is inserted. 6A-6E includes a first structure 602a and a second structure 602b that prevent visibility of the cap flag until the cap is fully closed. The first structure 602a is located in front of the cap flag and prevents the cap flag from being viewed from a position generally in front of the cap flag until the cap is fully closed and the cap flag is fully inserted.The second structure 602b is located on the side of the cap flag and prevents the cap flag from being seen from the side until the cap is fully closed and the cap flag is fully inserted. In a front view, the angle between the face of the first structure 602a and the line of sight located approximately in front of the flag screen may be about 90 degrees. The side view may be at an angle between 90 degrees and 180 degrees, for example, between 90 degrees and 160 degrees, 140 degrees, 120 degrees, 110 degrees, 105 degrees, 100 degrees, 95 degrees, or less. FIG. 6E is a side view of the cap flag and flag screen. FIG. 6F shows a view from an angle of about 180 degrees, for example, from a plane approximately parallel to the face of the first structure 602a. In certain embodiments, the length of the second structure 602b matches the length of the first structure on the side of the first structure 602a that has a notch that allows the lower region 601b of the cap flag 601 to be seen when the cap flag 601 is fully inserted. In a particular embodiment, the first and second structures 602a and 602b of the flag screen 602 are substantially planar and perpendicular to one another.

[0039] 6C-6F show the position of the cap flag 601 after the cap 660 is fully engaged with the cylindrical structure. For example, the cylindrical structure may include a chamber into which a sample prepared in the cylindrical cartridge may be introduced. After introduction of the sample, the cap may be pushed down towards the top end of the cylindrical structure. The appearance of at least the second region 601b of the cap flag 601 behind the flag screen 602 indicates that the cap is fully engaged with the cylindrical structure and the sample preparation cartridge is closed and ready to be used to process a sample. FIG. 6C shows a view of the container closure system from a position in front of the container closure system. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-6F, the container closure system is disposed in a rear region of the cylindrical structure, which is at the rear region of the instrument in which the cylindrical structure is disposed. The cylindrical structure is configured to be disposed within the instrument, and the rear region of the cylindrical structure faces the rear region of the instrument, away from the user. In certain embodiments, a rear region of the instrument includes a camera positioned to observe the container closure system and record and / or communicate information regarding the sealing of the cylindrical structure to the instrument and / or a user. Figure 6D shows a side view of the container closure system displaced laterally from the front view.

[0040] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a camera 701 positioned in a position in front of the container closure system of a cylindrical container. The reference "100" represents the relative angle between the field of view of the camera and the plane of the rectangular area 620 located under the flag screen and cap flag, which angle is approximately 90 degrees. In this embodiment, the QR code located on the rectangular area 620 is focused, and the entire QR code is within the field of view of the camera. In certain embodiments, the cylindrical container may be offset from the field of view of the camera such that the camera views the rectangular area from, for example, the right or left side of the cylindrical container. For example, a view from approximately the front of the flag screen would be at an angle of 90 degrees, measured between a line of sight from the camera and the plane of the flag screen. This position is also referred to as motor position 100 units, with the QR code facing the camera. 360 degrees = 400 position units. A view from the right side of the flag screen would be at an angle greater than 90 degrees. A view from the left side of the flag screen would be at an angle less than 90 degrees. 7, the reference "108" refers to a view of the cylindrical container from the right side of the flag screen at 108 position units or an angle of approximately 97 degrees. In this view, the QR code is visible as well as the lower region 601b of the cap flag, which is revealed by a notch in the lower region of the flag screen 602. At unit position "87," or an angle of approximately 80 degrees, it is also possible to see the QR code as well as the lower region 601b of the cap flag, which is revealed by a notch in the lower region of the flag screen 602.

[0041] By cylindrical, it is meant that the cylindrical structure can be a generally right circular cylinder. The annular wall can be deformed from the outside inward to form an inwardly deformed cavity within the annular wall. The annular wall can further include chambers for processing the sample, such as a chamber in which the sample and lysis fluid are placed, a chamber with air or a wash fluid, and a chamber in which analytes isolated from the sample are eluted. In embodiments in which a cap irreversibly closes the container, such as the sample preparation cartridges described herein, the cartridge can include a removable analyte collection reservoir fluidly connected to the chamber in which the analyte is eluted. An exemplary removable analyte collection reservoir 230 is shown in Figures 2A-2B.

[0042] How to indicate complete closure of a container In certain aspects, a method for detecting and indicating complete closure of a container using a container closure system provided herein is described. In certain embodiments, the method can be implemented using a computer. In certain embodiments, the method can be implemented by a processor configured to instruct a machine to perform the steps of the methods described herein. In certain embodiments, the processor may include instructions, e.g., a computer program, for performing the steps of the methods provided herein.

[0043] In certain embodiments, a method for detecting and indicating complete closure of a container by a cap may include imaging a particular area of ​​a container with a camera, the particular area comprising a container closure system including a cap flag and a flag screen, the cap flag configured to be inserted behind the flag screen, the flag screen configured to obscure the cap flag from view until the cap is fully engaged with the container, thereby closing the container, and appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen indicates that the container is closed by the cap.

[0044] In certain embodiments, when the cap flag is not visible behind a flag screen, the method includes prompting the user to fully close the cap. Prompting the user may include a visual prompt and / or an audio prompt. In certain embodiments, the method may include displaying a message on a display of a machine in which the container is located indicating that the container needs to be fully closed.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the particular region comprising the container closure system further comprises a positive control mark. The positive control mark can serve as an indication of proper alignment between the camera and the container. The positive control mark can be any mark that can be detected by the camera, and may include a two-dimensional mark, such as a barcode or a QR code. In certain embodiments, the method includes imaging the positive control mark, and when the positive control mark is detected, the container is properly positioned relative to the camera, and when the positive control mark is not visible, the method includes prompting the user to align the part with the camera.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the method includes visually or audibly prompting the user to align the container with the camera. In certain embodiments, the method includes prompting the user to rotate the container clockwise or counterclockwise to align the container with the camera. In certain embodiments, the visual prompt may be displayed on a display of the device on which the container is located.

[0047] In a particular embodiment, the container closure system is as described in the previous section.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the visualizing comprises capturing an image of the particular area and processing the image. The image may be processed using an on-board algorithm or using cloud computing. In certain embodiments, the visualizing comprises capturing an image of the particular area and processing the image to identify the presence of substantially the entire positive control mark before processing the image to determine the presence of a cap flag behind the flag screen.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the method may include (a) capturing an image of a particular region and (b) detecting a positive control mark. If the positive control mark is not detected, prompt the user to align the container in the instrument and repeat steps (a) and (b). If the positive control mark is detected, (c) detecting the presence of a lower region of the cap flag. If the lower region of the cap flag is not detected, prompt the user to close the cap. If the lower region of the cap flag is detected, (d) initiating processing of the sample present in the container.

[0050] As used herein, the term "processor" refers to one or more devices, circuits, and / or processing cores configured to process data, such as instructions for a computer program.

[0051] Thus, the above merely illustrates the principles of the disclosure. It will be understood that those skilled in the art can devise various configurations that embody the principles of the invention and are included within its spirit and scope, although not expressly described or shown herein. Furthermore, the language of all examples and conditions recited herein is intended primarily to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the invention and the concepts that the inventors have contributed to developing the art, and should not be interpreted as being limited to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Furthermore, all statements herein reciting the principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Moreover, such equivalents are intended to include both currently known equivalents and equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed to perform the same function, regardless of configuration. Thus, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. The scope and spirit of the invention are embodied by the appended claims rather than as such.

Claims

1. 1. A container closure indication system comprising: Cap flags and flag screens Equipped with a cap flag disposed on an underside of the cap and extending downwardly away from the underside, and a flag screen disposed on an exterior surface of the container adjacent an upper end of the container and extending toward a lower end of the container; the cap flag is configured to be inserted behind a flag screen configured to obscure the cap flag from view until the cap is fully engaged with the container, the appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen indicating that the container is closed by the cap; Container closure indication system.

2. the cap flag having a first region proximate a lower surface of the cap and a second region distal from the lower surface of the cap; and the flag screen having a first region proximate a top end and a second region distal from a top end of the container; 2. The system of claim 1, wherein a width of the second region of the cap flag is greater than a width of the second region of the flag screen and is approximately the same as a width of the first region of the flag screen such that when the cap is lowered towards the container but not fully engaged with the container, the second region of the cap flag is covered by the first region of the flag screen and when the cap is fully engaged with the container, the second region of the cap flag is behind and at least partially visible behind the second region of the flag screen.

3. 3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the vessel comprises a flange disposed on an exterior surface of the vessel at or near an upper end of the vessel, the flange comprising a flag screen extending from a lower surface of the flange.

4. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the flange includes a through hole configured to insert the cap flag behind the flag screen, the through hole being vertically aligned with the cap flag such that the cap flag enters the through hole as the cap is lowered onto the top end of the container, and the through hole being positioned behind the location of the flag screen.

5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the through holes are offset relative to the position of the flag screen.

6. 6. The system of claim 4 or 5, wherein the through hole comprises a guide member configured to laterally displace the second region of the cap flag relative to the first region of the cap flag such that the second region is located completely behind the flag screen when the cap is not fully closed, and the first region of the cap flag comprises a notch that does not contact the guide member, thereby releasing the lateral displacement of the cap flag such that the second region of the cap flag is offset relative to the second region of the flag screen and is visible behind the second region of the flag screen when the cap is fully engaged with the container.

7. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the guide member and the lower edge of the cap flag have complementary shapes to increase contact between the guide member and the cap flag when the cap is lowered onto the container.

8. 8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a camera positioned to image a second area of ​​the flag screen and automatically indicate closure of the container when the cap flag is at least partially visible behind the flag screen.

9. The system of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cap flag is made of an elastomeric material that can be bent when pressure is applied and can spring back to its original shape when pressure is removed.

10. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the cap flag and the flag screen are complementary in colour to each other.

11. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the cap flag and the flag screen are substantially flat and substantially rectangular.

12. 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the flag screen comprises a rectangular first region and a rectangular second region, the width of the first region being greater than the width of the second region, and one side edge of the flag screen sloping inwardly from the first region to the second region.

13. 13. The system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cap flag comprises a rectangular first region and a rectangular second region, the width of the first region being smaller than the width of the second region, and one side edge of the cap flag sloping outwardly from the first region towards the second region.

14. 13. The system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cap flag comprises a rectangular first region and a rectangular second region, the width of the first region being smaller than the width of the second region, and one side edge of the cap flag including a notch in the first region.

15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the length of the notch is greater than a thickness of the flange in which the through hole is located.

16. 1. A method for detecting closure of a container by a cap, the method comprising: imaging a particular area of ​​the container with a camera, the particular area including a container closure system including a cap flag and a flag screen; the cap flag is configured to be inserted behind a flag screen configured to block the cap flag from view until the cap is fully engaged with the container, thereby closing the container; The appearance of the cap flag behind the flag screen indicates that the container is closed by the cap.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, when the cap flag is not visible behind a flag screen, the method includes prompting the user to completely close the cap.

18. the particular region further comprises a positive control marking, and the method comprises visualizing the positive control marking; When the positive control mark is detected, the container is properly positioned relative to the camera; 18. The method of claim 16 or 17, wherein when the positive control mark is not visible, the method comprises prompting the user to align the camera with a particular area.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the cap flag is disposed on an underside of the cap and extends downwardly away from the underside, and the flag screen is disposed on an exterior surface of the container adjacent an upper end of the container and extends toward the lower end of the container.

20. the cap flag having a first region proximate a lower surface of the cap and a second region distal from the lower surface of the cap; and the flag screen having a first region proximate a top end and a second region distal from a top end of the container; 20. The method of claim 19, wherein a width of the second region of the cap flag is greater than a width of the second region of the flag screen and the width of the second region of the cap flag is approximately the same as a width of the first region of the flag screen, such that when the cap is lowered towards the container but not fully engaged with the container, the second region of the cap flag is covered by the first region of the flag screen and when the cap is fully engaged with the container, the second region of the cap flag is behind the second region of the flag screen and is at least partially visible.

21. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the vessel comprises a flange disposed at or near an upper end of the vessel and on an exterior surface of the vessel, the flange comprising a flag screen extending from a lower surface of the flange.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the flange comprises a through hole configured to insert the cap flag behind the flag screen, the through hole being vertically aligned with the cap flag such that the cap flag enters the through hole as the cap is lowered onto the top end of the container, and the through hole being positioned behind the location of the flag screen.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the through holes are offset relative to the position of the flag screen.

24. 24. The method of claim 22 or 23, wherein the through hole comprises a guide member configured to laterally displace the second region of the cap flag relative to the first region of the cap flag such that the second region is located completely behind the flag screen when the cap is not fully closed, and the first region of the cap flag comprises a notch that does not contact the guide member, thereby releasing the lateral displacement of the cap flag such that the second region of the cap flag is offset relative to the second region of the flag screen and is visible behind the second region of the flag screen when the cap is fully engaged with the container.

25. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the guide member and the lower edge of the cap flag have complementary shapes to increase contact between the guide member and the cap flag when the cap is lowered onto the container.

26. A method according to any one of claims 16 to 25, wherein imaging comprises capturing an image of a particular area and processing the image.

27. 27. The method of any of claims 16 to 26, wherein visualizing comprises capturing an image of the particular area and processing the image to identify the presence of substantially the entirety of the positive control mark before processing the image to determine the presence of a cap flag behind the flag screen.

Images