Stopper for releasing a substance, associated kit and method of operation - Patents.com

Abstract

A stopper (1) for releasing a substance (2) into a container (3) for a sample, the stopper (1) comprising a first body (4, 5), a second body (7) movable relative thereto, and a reservoir (6) configured to contain the substance (2), the first body (4, 5) comprising a first part (4) having a coupling element (41) configured to define a first mounting configuration in which the stopper (1) closes the container (3), and a second part (5) realizing a part of the reservoir (6) and capable of being in a first relative position and a second relative position with respect to the first part (4), the second part (5) being directly coupled to the second body (7), the reservoir (6) having a first opening configuration and a second closing configuration, the first opening configuration being determined by the first relative position between the first part (4) and the second part (5), and the second closing configuration being determined by the second relative position between the first part (4) and the second part (5).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of closure elements for containers, in particular stoppers for releasing substances. The present disclosure also describes a kit comprising a stopper and a device for taking a sample, preferably for collecting a sample of biological and / or microbiological material, and / or comprising a container for a sample, preferably for a sample of biological and / or microbiological material. [Background technology]

[0002] A stopper for releasing a substance is a stopper configured to store a substance in liquid or solid form, e.g., powder form, that is removably coupled to a container and configured to release the substance under determined conditions, e.g., into a container with which the stopper is associated. Known types of stoppers typically have a first operational configuration in which the substance is contained in a reservoir of a defined volume within the stopper, and a second operational configuration in which the reservoir is opened to allow release of the substance. Typically, release of the substance occurs in the container in a configuration in which the stopper is constrained to the container.

[0003] Known types of stoppers can provide a movable part that is typically not directly connected to the container itself, which has a breaking element that can open the membrane and put the recess in communication with the external environment.

[0004] These stoppers can be opened unintentionally, releasing the substance. Opening can occur both when the stopper is properly secured to the container and when the stopper is separated from the container. If the substance is hazardous or capable of decomposing, release of the substance outside the container can be dangerous or result in decomposition, making the substance substantially unsuitable for use.

[0005] It should be noted that known types of stoppers are often used by private users as well as professional operators and may be handled by children.

[0006] In the field of collecting and / or storing and / or analyzing biological and microbiological samples, the use of test tubes, or more generally containers, closable by a stopper, containing therein a biological sample that is free or that has been deposited through a device for collecting the sample, is known.

[0007] It is also known that samples, in particular samples of biological material, may have to be subjected to treatment with reagents that are toxic or at least potentially toxic.

[0008] In the types of analysis specified, the use of reagents must be contingent on their use in a closed environment, i.e., direct release within the container, due to chemical reactions, decomposition of the reagents, or for reasons of operator safety. Furthermore, some reagents are very expensive, and their dispersion can entail considerable costs beyond the risk of causing the problems mentioned above.

[0009] From US 2013 / 0092690 A1, a container for biological samples, which can contain a drug, is known, which is provided with a stopper, which provides an ampoule and a piercing element that move within the housing of the stopper. If the stopper is handled incorrectly, in particular if the stopper is compressed along its longitudinal axis, the contents of the ampoule may be unintentionally released, resulting in a risk of endangering the operator and / or resulting in unavoidable dispersion of the drug contained in the ampoule.

[0010] It is observed that this section is provided solely for the purpose of illustrating the particular problem that the present invention is intended to address. The embodiments ultimately described in this section are not intended to be part of the state of the art, merely as described herein.

[0011] It should also be noted that many stoppers for releasing substances have a structure comprising multiple separate parts with sealing rings between them, contributing to the structural and assembly complexity of the stopper itself. Such sealing rings are particularly realized with silicone or rubber-like materials that may lose their plastic deformation ability over time, resulting in a risk of leakage of the substance contained in the stopper. Furthermore, such silicone or rubber-like materials may be chemically incompatible with or react in some way with certain substances or reagents present in the stopper's reservoir. The applicant has observed in practice that stoppers containing substances are often stored for long periods of time, even longer than one year.

[0012] The aim of the present disclosure is to describe a stopper for releasing substances that can overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0013] The object of the present disclosure is also to describe a kit comprising said stopper to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0014] The purpose of this disclosure is to describe a method of actuating a stopper to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0015] It is also an object of this disclosure to describe a machine for handling the stoppers described herein. Summary of the Invention

[0016] The object of the present disclosure is described herein in several of its prominent aspects, which may be combined with each other and / or with parts of the detailed description and / or claims.

[0017] It should be noted that in the following aspects, expressions such as "particularly" or "preferably" are intended to be non-limiting.

[0018] Stopper According to the present disclosure, there is provided a stopper (1) for releasing a substance (2) into a container (3) for a sample, comprising: a first body (4, 5) configured to removably engage the container (3); a second body (7) coupled to the first body (4, 5) and movable relative to the first body (4, 5); at least one tank (6) configured to contain a substance (2) and defined within the first body (4, 5) or between the first body (4, 5) and a second body (7); At least The first body (4, 5) a first part (4) configured to be directly coupled to said container (3) and comprising a coupling element (41), the coupling element (41) being configured to enable detachable fastening of the stopper (1) corresponding to an opening of the container (3) defining a first mounting configuration of the stopper on the container, in which in the first mounting configuration the stopper (1) preferably closes the container (3); a second part (5) movably connected to the first part (4), the second part (5) realizing at least a part of the bottom wall and / or side wall of the tank (6) and capable of being in at least one first relative position with respect to the first part (4) and at least one second relative position with respect to the first part (4); At least the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) is directly connected to the second body (7); the tank (6) has at least one first opening configuration and a second closing configuration, the first opening configuration being determined by a first relative position between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), and the second closing configuration being determined by a second relative position between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5); The stopper (1) will now be described.

[0019] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, said container (3) is a container for a sample of biological and / or microbiological material.

[0020] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the tank (6) is a tank having a volume that is variable between at least a first volume and a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume.

[0021] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the second body (7) is configured to assume at least one first position and one second position relative to said first body (4, 5).

[0022] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the movement of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) between the first position and the second position, in use, determines a change in the volume of the tank (6), and / or the tank (6) takes on a first volume when the second body (7) is in the first position relative to the first body (4, 5), and the tank (6) takes on a second volume when the second body (7) is in the second position relative to the first body (4, 5), Optionally, the second body (7) is movable relative to the first body (4, 5) between said first position and said second position by at least one axial translation.

[0023] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first position and the second position are end stroke positions for the axial translation, and the first volume is a maximum volume and / or the second volume is a minimum volume.

[0024] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper (1) provides a main deployment axis (X), and said axial translation occurs along a direction parallel to, and preferably substantially coincident with, said main deployment axis (X).

[0025] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the stopper comprises at least one drain hole (9) for allowing the substance (2) to be drained from said reservoir (6).

[0026] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one drain hole (9) is located in the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0027] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one closure element (10) configured to removably engage within the at least one discharge hole (9) and comprises at least one through-hole (54) configured to couple with the discharge hole (9) as an alternative to the at least one closure element (10), or the at least one discharge hole (9) is disposed in the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), and the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one closure element (10) configured to removably engage within the at least one discharge hole (9) and comprises at least one through-hole (54) configured to couple with the discharge hole (9) as an alternative to the closure element (10); Preferably, when the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the second relative position with respect to the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5), the closure element (10) is at least partially, preferably entirely, arranged within the discharge hole (9) and / or seals the discharge hole (9) so that the through hole (54) is decoupled from the discharge hole (9); and when the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the first relative position with respect to the second part (5), the closure element (10) is at least partially, preferably entirely, arranged outside the discharge hole (9) and / or at least partially, preferably entirely, releases the discharge hole (9) so that the through hole (54) is coupled to the discharge hole (9); Optionally, when the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the second relative position with respect to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), the at least one discharge hole (9) is isolated from the tank (6), and when the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the first relative position with respect to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), the at least one discharge hole (9) is in communication with the tank (6).

[0028] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the stopper (1) is configured to be removably coupled to a rod (100) of a device (100, 101) for collecting samples, preferably to be removably coupled to a rod (100) of a device (100, 101) for collecting samples of biological and / or microbiological material.

[0029] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the device (100, 101) for collecting a sample comprises a swab (101) joined to said rod (100), at least partially superimposed on said rod (100), realized on said rod (100), and configured and specifically designed to allow collection and / or storage of a sample, preferably designed to allow collection and / or storage of a sample of biological and / or microbiological material.

[0030] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the swab (101) is a flocked swab.

[0031] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, at least a portion of the rod (100) is realized in a plastic material, optionally in one piece and / or by a molding process, in particular injection molding.

[0032] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one cavity (8c) that provides a housing configured to removably hold the end of said rod (100) in use.

[0033] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one channel (4v) in communication with said at least one discharge hole (9).

[0034] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one channel (4v) is configured and specified to allow for the discharge of material (2) removed from the tank (6) substantially adjacent to the rod (100).

[0035] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, said channel (4v) communicates with or is part of said cavity (8c).

[0036] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the cavity (8c) is configured to allow the introduction of the end of said rod (100) by axial insertion.

[0037] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the cavity (8c) is configured to allow axial insertion of the end of the rod (100) along an axis parallel to or coincident with the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1).

[0038] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one retaining rib (8n), preferably a plurality of retaining ribs (8n), corresponding to said cavity (8c).

[0039] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the plurality of retaining ribs (8n) comprises at least one pair of retaining ribs (8n), more preferably at least four retaining ribs (8n).

[0040] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one pair of retaining ribs (8n) includes at least one first rib and one second rib that are opposite each other and / or radially opposite to the deployment axis of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0041] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least one retaining rib (8n) protrudes radially toward the center of the cavity (8c) and is configured to provide sliding friction with the end of the rod (100) when introduced into the cavity (8c).

[0042] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, at least one retaining rib (8n) is elastically deformable.

[0043] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of retaining ribs (8n) realize the at least one channel (4v), and / or the at least one channel (4v) is disposed between two adjacent retaining ribs (8n).

[0044] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the cavity (8c) is configured to provide sliding friction with the end of the rod (100).

[0045] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the sliding friction is sufficient to determine retention of the rod (100) using a force greater than the weight of the device for collecting the sample.

[0046] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least one retaining rib (8n) comprises a radially outer portion and a radially inner portion.

[0047] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the radially inner portion is pointed.

[0048] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of radially pointed inner portions of the plurality of retention ribs (8n) collectively define a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the end portion of the rod (100).

[0049] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the shape has an area substantially equal to or less than the area identified by a cross section of the end of rod (100).

[0050] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) is rotatably connected to said first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0051] According to a further non-limiting aspect, between the first relative position and the second relative position there is a predetermined rotation between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0052] According to further non-limiting aspects, the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) is rotatably connected to said first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and configured to rotate relative to said first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) on an axis substantially coinciding with the main deployment axis (X) of said stopper (1) and / or the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) is rotatably connected to said first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) on an axis substantially coinciding with the translation axis of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5).

[0053] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the translation axis of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) substantially coincides with the main deployment axis (X) of said stopper (1).

[0054] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, at least one of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and / or the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises a respective dividing wall (4p, 5p) that is deformable, preferably elastically deformable.

[0055] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the bulkheads (4p, 5p) are at least partially, preferably substantially entirely, arranged in a direction perpendicular to the main deployment axis (X) and / or perpendicular to the translation axis of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5).

[0056] According to a further non-limiting aspect, movement between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) between said first relative position and said second relative position determines, in use, a deformation, preferably an elastic deformation, of at least one of the dividing wall (4p) of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the dividing wall (5p) of the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0057] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the partition (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) provides the bottom wall of said tank (6).

[0058] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, alternatively, at least one discharge hole (9) is realized on the partition wall (4p) of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5), and at least one through hole (54) and at least one closure element (10) are arranged on the partition wall (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5), or at least one discharge hole (9) is realized on the partition wall (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5), and at least one through hole (54) and at least one closure element (10) are arranged on the partition wall (4p) of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0059] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one first recess (11) in which at least one closure element (10) slides during relative movement, optionally rotation, between the first portion (4) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0060] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one first recess (11) in which at least one closure element (10) slides during relative movement, optionally rotation, between the first part (4) and the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0061] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, said recess (11) is a recess that substantially defines a curved profile, optionally a circumferential arc, and / or accommodates at least one discharge hole (9).

[0062] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one discharge hole (9) is located substantially corresponding to a first end of the at least one first recess (11).

[0063] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, at least one first recess (11) is arranged on said partition (4p) of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0064] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, at least one first recess (11) is arranged on said partition (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0065] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the partition (4p) of the first part (4) preferably comprises first and second recesses (11) facing each other, and during relative movement, optionally rotation, between the first part (4) and the second part (5), the first closure element (10) is configured to slide within the first recess (11) and the second closure element (10) is configured to slide within the second recess (11).

[0066] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the partition (5p) of the second part (5) preferably comprises first and second recesses (11) facing each other, and during relative movement, optionally rotation, between the first part (4) and the second part (5), the first closure element (10) is configured to slide within the first recess (11) and the second closure element (10) is configured to slide within the second recess (11).

[0067] According to further non-limiting embodiments, the first and second recesses (11) are recesses that substantially define a curved profile, optionally a circumferential arc, and / or each house one respective discharge hole (9).

[0068] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one drain hole (9) is located substantially corresponding to a first end of the at least one recess (11).

[0069] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the first and second recesses (11) are at substantially the same distance relative to the center of said partition wall (4p) of the first portion (4).

[0070] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the partitions (4p, 5p) of the first part (4) and / or the second part (5) are substantially central walls of the first part (4) and / or the second part (5) and / or are axially aligned on the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1).

[0071] According to a further non-limiting aspect, at least one of the partitions (4p, 5p) of the first part (4) and / or the second part (5) lies in a plane substantially perpendicular to the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1).

[0072] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper (1) is configured to allow movement between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) from a first relative position towards a second relative position via an initial snap and / or an initial application of a force greater than the force required to complete movement from said first relative position towards said second relative position.

[0073] According to a further non-limiting aspect, removal of the at least one closure element (10) from the at least one discharge hole (9) is enabled by the initial snap and / or by the initial application of a force greater than the force required to complete movement from the first relative position toward the second relative position.

[0074] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper (1) comprises at least one shoulder (5k) arranged substantially corresponding to the at least one discharge hole (9).

[0075] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the shoulder preferably has an at least partially square profile.

[0076] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the shoulder is configured and specified to determine an initial application of a force greater than the force required to complete the initial snap and / or movement from the first relative position toward the second relative position.

[0077] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one recess (11) comprises a connecting portion (11r) with the at least one discharge hole (9).

[0078] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, said connecting portion (11r) provides a sliding surface for the closure element (10).

[0079] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the sliding surface is curved and preferably free of corners.

[0080] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the connecting portion (11r) is configured and specifically defined to facilitate leakage of the closure element (10) from each discharge hole (9) optionally after the initial application of a force greater than the force required to complete the snap and / or movement from the first relative position towards the second relative position.

[0081] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the connecting portion (11r) is configured and specified to determine the change in height of the closure element (10) optionally along the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1) during movement of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) relative to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) between the first relative position and the second relative position.

[0082] According to further non-limiting embodiments, the at least one recess (11) has a substantially elongated shape and / or has at least one main direction of deployment and defines first and second end stroke positions for relative movement, preferably relative rotation, between the first and second portions (4) and (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0083] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one first recess (11) has a first end and a second end, and the first end stroke position is determined when the at least one closure element (10) corresponds to the first end of the at least one first recess (11).

[0084] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second end stroke position is determined when the at least one closure element (10) corresponds to the second end of the at least one first recess (11).

[0085] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper (1) comprises at least one safety or engagement element (11s) configured to allow movement of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) relative to said second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) from said first relative position towards said second relative position and to prevent movement, in particular backlash, from said second relative position to said first relative position.

[0086] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the safety or engagement element (11s) is preferably configured to allow rotation of the second part (5) of the first body (4,5) relative to the first part (4) of the first body (4,5) in a first rotational sense, and to prevent rotation of the second part (5) of the first body (4,5) relative to the first part (4) of the first body (4,5) in a second rotational sense opposite to the first rotational sense when a predefined rotational position between the second part (5) of the first body (4,5) and the first part (4) of the first body (4,5) is reached.

[0087] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, said safety or engagement element (11s) is realized corresponding to said at least one first recess (11).

[0088] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the safety or engagement element (11s) is an anti-reverse element and / or comprises at least one blind hole arranged corresponding to at least the first recess (11).

[0089] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the predefined rotational position corresponds to the second end stroke position and / or a predefined end of the at least one first recess (11).

[0090] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the predefined end is the second end.

[0091] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the safety or engagement element (11s) comprises an undercut or blind hole corresponding to at least the first recess (11).

[0092] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the undercut or blind hole is positioned correspondingly to the bottom wall of the at least first recess (11).

[0093] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises a sidewall (52) that defines at least a portion of said tank (6), and the second body (7) is at least partially introduced into the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) and contacts said sidewall (52).

[0094] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the second body (7) comprises a sealing element (71) which in use is in direct contact with said side wall (52).

[0095] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the sealing element (71) is deformable, in particular elastically deformable, and deforms and contacts the side wall (52) when the second body (7) is at least partially introduced into the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0096] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the second body (7) comprises a bottom wall (72) substantially joined to said sealing element (71).

[0097] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, a bottom wall (72) and a sealing element (71) define a tank (6) above.

[0098] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the sealing element (71) comprises an annular wall disposed radially outwardly of the bottom wall (72) or projecting radially from said bottom wall (72).

[0099] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the annular wall comprises a radially outer portion that exerts friction, in particular sliding friction, during movement of the second body (7) between the first position and the second position.

[0100] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper (1) comprises a peelable element (80) disposed substantially corresponding to the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0101] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the peelable element (80) is configured and specified to act as a barrier to contact with or removal of the substance (2) when the substance (2) leaks from the tank (6) through at least one drain hole (9).

[0102] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the peelable element (80) comprises a sheet of flexible and / or bendable material, optionally including at least one of a layer of plastic material and a layer of metallic material, preferably aluminum.

[0103] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the peelable element (80), in use, is integrated into said first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) by at least one of an adhesive process and / or a welding process, said welding being preferably ultrasonic welding.

[0104] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises an engagement element (59) with the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0105] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the engaging element (59) is configured to maintain one end of the second portion (5), preferably a lower end of the second portion (5), in a movably constrained state with an end of the first portion (4), preferably an upper end of the first portion (4).

[0106] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the engagement element (59) is configured and specified to determine and maintain centering of the second part (5) relative to the first part (4), preferably configured and specified to determine and maintain centering of the movement of the second part (5) relative to the first part (4) between said first relative position and said second relative position, said centering optionally occurring on the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1).

[0107] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the engaging element (59) comprises at least one annular profile that extends seamlessly from the underside of the partition (5p) of the second portion (5).

[0108] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the first portion (4) comprises an engagement region (48) for an engagement element (59).

[0109] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the engagement region (48) is realized substantially corresponding to a recess (43) that opens substantially corresponding to the partition wall (4p) of the first part (4).

[0110] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the engagement region (48) comprises an undercut adapted to accommodate at least a portion of the protrusion of the engagement element (59).

[0111] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the protrusions of the engaging elements (59) extend in a direction substantially oblique to the direction identified by the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1).

[0112] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the recess (8) opens onto a cavity (8c) configured to allow removable engagement of the end of the rod (100) by introduction by contrast.

[0113] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper is configured to allow symmetrical introduction only when in an open configuration, particularly when substantially adjacent to or corresponding to a configuration of minimum axial extension.

[0114] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the cavity (8c) has a plurality of retention ribs (8n) for the rod (100).

[0115] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the ribs (8n) project radially toward the center of the cavity (8c) itself and / or are substantially aligned along an axis that substantially coincides with the longitudinal axis of the stopper (1).

[0116] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the ribs (8n) are configured to exert a contrasting force upon insertion and removal of a portion of the rod (100) into the cavity (8c) and to assist in the transfer of at least a portion of the substance (2) from the tank (6) toward the outside of the stopper (1).

[0117] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the stopper (1) comprises at least one position reference element (94) configured and specifically defined to identify a predefined spatial orientation of the stopper (1).

[0118] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least one position reference element (94) defines at least one predefined accessible outer portion of the stopper (1), in particular a first accessible outer portion of at least one of the first body (4, 5) and the second body (7), wherein the first accessible outer portion is non-axially symmetrical with a second accessible outer portion of said at least one of the first body (4, 5) and the second body (4, 5).

[0119] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said at least one position reference element (94) is configured and specified to identify the orientation of the stopper (1) relative to the axis of rotation (X).

[0120] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one position reference element (94) is arranged corresponding to the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and / or is arranged corresponding to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) and makes it possible to identify a reference position of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and / or the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) relative to the rotation axis (X).

[0121] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the at least one position reference element (94) comprises a notch.

[0122] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the position reference element (94) is realized on the outer surface of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and / or on the outer surface of the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0123] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the predefined accessible outer portion of the stopper (1) is part of the outer surface of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and / or is part of the outer surface of the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0124] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the at least one position reference element (94) includes at least one of a notch, a protrusion, a graphic, or an alphanumeric code.

[0125] According to a further non-limiting aspect, said graphic code or said alphanumeric code is substantially flush with said predefined accessible outer portion of the stopper (1).

[0126] kit According to the present invention, The stopper (1) according to one or more of the preceding aspects; and A device (100, 101) for collecting samples, preferably for collecting samples of biological and / or microbiological material, comprising a rod (100) and a swab (101) joined to said rod (100), at least partially overlapping said rod (100), realized on said rod (100) and preferably configured and specifically designed to allow the collection and / or storage of a sample of biological and / or microbiological material, a container (3) for a sample, preferably a container (3) for a sample of biological and / or microbiological material, configured and specifically designed to be removably coupled to said stopper (1) in correspondence with an opening, and specifically designed to accommodate said device (100, 101) for collecting the sample; an adapter configured and specified for a first body (4, 5), optionally for a first part (4) of the first body (4, 5), to be removably coupled to the stopper (1), the adapter being configured and specified for removably coupling the stopper (1) to an auxiliary device, preferably an auxiliary container for the sample, a duct for releasing the substance (2), or a cartridge; At least one of A kit comprising:

[0127] Handling Instructions The present disclosure further describes methods of handling the stopper (1) according to one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0128] According to a further aspect, the method comprises: a first engagement step of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5); a second engagement step of the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5); a first movement step including movement of the first portion (4) relative to the second portion (5) between the first relative position and the second relative position, the first movement step occurring after the first engagement step and the second engagement step; An engagement step of the second body (7); a second movement step subsequent to the first movement step, the second movement step including movement of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) between the first position and the second position; Including, The second transfer step determines leakage of at least a portion of the substance (2) from the tank (6) through at least one drain hole (9); The handling method is optionally an at least partially automated handling method and is carried out by a machine for handling stoppers (1) for releasing substances (2) into containers (3) for samples, preferably containers (3) for samples of biological and / or microbiological material.

[0129] According to further non-limiting aspects, the first movement step comprises a rotation of the first part (4) relative to the second part (5) between said first relative position and said second relative position, and / or the second movement step comprises a linear translation of the second body (7) relative to the first body, preferably along a direction substantially parallel to the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1).

[0130] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the rotation occurs in a predefined rotational orientation starting from a first end stroke position of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) relative to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0131] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the rotation ends corresponding to a second end stroke position of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) relative to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0132] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the rotation determines a movement of a closure element (10) of at least one discharge hole (9) of the stopper (1) from a first position, in which the closure element (10) closes the at least one discharge hole (9) and determines a closed configuration of the tank (6), to a second position, in which the closure element (10) opens the at least one discharge hole (9) and determines an open configuration of the tank (6).

[0133] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the linear translation of the second body (7) relative to said first bodies (4, 5) determines a gradual decrease in the volume of the tank (6) and / or a gradual leakage of the substance contained in the tank (6).

[0134] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the linear translation of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) terminates when at least a portion of the second body (7) comes into contact with an end stroke element disposed correspondingly to the first body (4, 5), said end stroke element optionally being the bottom wall of the tank (6).

[0135] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the method includes removing a peelable element (80) disposed substantially corresponding to the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5).

[0136] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the removal of the peelable element (80) occurs before the second moving step.

[0137] According to a further non-limiting embodiment, the removal of the peelable element (80) occurs before the first moving step.

[0138] machine The present disclosure further describes a machine configured and specifically designed to releasably engage a stopper (1) according to one or more of the aspects described herein.

[0139] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the machine comprises at least one handler configured to determine a relative movement of a first portion (4) of a first body (4, 5) relative to a second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) between at least said first relative position and said second relative position, and / or to determine a relative movement between said second body (7) and said first body (4, 5) between said first position and said second position.

[0140] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the handler is configured to temporarily hold the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) in a predefined fixed position and to move the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5).

[0141] According to a further non-limiting aspect, a machine is configured and specifically designed to determine the execution of a method according to one or more of the above aspects.

[0142] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the machine comprises: to engage a first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) via said at least one handler and to engage a second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) via said at least one handler; thereafter moving, and optionally rotating, the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) relative to the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) via said at least one handler to open said tank (6) and, optionally, to release said at least one discharge hole (9) from said at least one closure element (10), to engage with a second body (7) via said at least one handler, and then pushing the second body (7) axially from a first position relative to the first body (4, 5), in particular relative to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), towards a second position relative to the first body (4, 5), in particular relative to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), so as to determine a gradual decrease in the volume of the tank (6) and force leakage of the substance (2) through at least one discharge hole (9). It is specifically configured to do this, and optionally automatically.

[0143] The objects of the present disclosure are set forth in preferred, non-limiting embodiments illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, a brief description of which is provided below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0144] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a stopper body of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a stopper object of the present disclosure in a configuration in which its tank is closed. [Figure 3] 3 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a stopper object of the present disclosure in an open reservoir configuration, in which the variable volume reservoir exhibits a first volume. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a stopper body of the present disclosure in a configuration in which its reservoir is open, in which the variable volume reservoir exhibits a second volume that is smaller than the first volume. [Figure 5] 1 is a top perspective view of a first portion of a first body of a stopper object of the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of a first portion of a first body of a stopper object of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 10 is a top plan view of a second portion of a first body of the stopper object of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of the second portion of the first body of the stopper object of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line YY in FIG. [Figure 10] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a second portion of the first body in a first relative rotational configuration with respect to a first portion of the first body. [Figure 11] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the second portion of the first body in a second relative rotational configuration with respect to the second portion of the first body. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0145] The present disclosure relates to a stopper 1 for releasing a substance 2 into a container 3. Preferably, the stopper 1 is intended to be coupled with a container 3 for biological and / or microbiological material and to release the substance 2 into said container.

[0146] In one embodiment, the stopper 1 is specifically intended to be used by a user, who may be a health care professional (e.g., a doctor or nurse) or a patient. The stopper 1 object of the present disclosure is specifically intended to be used in combination with the container 3 for self-diagnosis.

[0147] The stopper 1 body of the present disclosure generally comprises a first body 4, 5 that is adapted to be removably engaged with a container 3. The stopper 1 also comprises a second body 7 that is coupled to and movable relative to the first bodies 4, 5.

[0148] The stopper 1 is provided with a reservoir 6 configured to contain a substance 2, and the reservoir 6 is defined between a first body 4, 5 and a second body 7. In one embodiment, the reservoir 6 is realized by the first body 4, 5 and the second body 7 without the introduction of additional elements. As will become apparent from the following description, the reservoir 6 opens when the second body 7 is disconnected or separated from the first body 4, 5. In this case, the reservoir 6 can be conveniently emptied or filled as needed.

[0149] In non-limiting embodiments, the container 3 can be, for example, but not by way of limitation, a test tube for containing and / or storing a biological sample that is optionally subsequently subjected to one or more analyses. In particular, the coupling between the stopper object of the present disclosure and the container 3 is made in correspondence with an opening in the container itself, which opening, in the embodiments described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings, is also the only opening in the container itself.

[0150] The stopper 1 object of the present disclosure can be referred to as "releasing" since it is configured to contain a substance 2 in its reservoir and to release the substance 2 in a predetermined manner from the reservoir towards the container 3. The substance 2 contained in the reservoir 6 is a substance that can be both a fluid, in particular a liquid, and in solid form, for example in granular and / or powder form.

[0151] In addition to solids and liquids, the above-mentioned substance 2 can also be or include a gel-like substance, and / or can include a Newtonian fluid and / or a non-Newtonian fluid, and / or can be or include a gas or vapor. Therefore, the object of the stopper 1 of the present disclosure can contain any form of material without limitation. In particular, the stopper object of the present disclosure can also contain and / or be designed to contain a substance 2 that emits ionizing radiation.

[0152] In a preferred, but non-limiting, embodiment, the container 3 is essentially a test tube for collecting and / or storing and / or analyzing biological samples, preferably made of a plastic material, such as, but not limited to, PP or PET, or other plastic material, preferably one that does not release substances toward the biological sample when the biological sample is contained therein. In particular, it can be a test tube of a plastic material, optionally transparent to visible light radiation, having, but not limited to, a size of, for example, but not limited to, 12 mm x 80 mm. This shape is not intended to be limiting. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the container 3 provides a substantially cylindrical body open at a single end (top end) corresponding to a screw thread.

[0153] In a preferred embodiment, the stopper 1, in particular the first bodies 4, 5 and the second body 7, substantially have the shape of a solid of revolution, in particular distinguishing an approximately circular profile. An axis X is centered on the stopper 1 and is the central axis of the first bodies 4, 5 and the second body 7. As will be better explained in the following part of the description, the axis X is the translation axis of the second body 7 relative to the first bodies 4, 5.

[0154] The tank 6 comprises a bottom wall which acts as an end stroke element of the second body 7 during linear translation of the second body 7 relative to the first bodies 4, 5, through which the volume of the tank 6 is progressively reduced starting from a predefined volume, preferably the maximum volume of the tank 6, and / or through which the substance contained in the tank is progressively extruded.

[0155] The first body 4, 5 comprises a first part 4 and a second part 5. The axis X is the axis along which the movement, in particular the rotation, of the first part 4 relative to the second part 5 occurs.

[0156] First part 4 and second part 5 The first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 is configured to be directly coupled to the container 3 and includes a coupling element 41 configured to correspond to an opening of the container 3 and allow for releasable fastening of the stopper 1. A first mounting configuration of the stopper 1 to the container will now be outlined when the coupling element 41 is secured to the opening of the container 3.

[0157] The second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 is located between the first part 4 and the second body 7 of the first body 4, 5. In particular, the second part is movably connected to the first part 4 and realizes at least part of the bottom wall and / or side wall of the tank 6.

[0158] In one embodiment, whatever the configuration of the stopper, at least a portion of the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 provides an intermediate position between the first portion 4 and the second body 7 of the first body 4, 5.

[0159] In one embodiment, the coupling element 41 can be a thread, and the thread is preferably, but not limited to, located on the inner or outer wall of the coupling wall 42 of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5. This should not be intended as limiting, as in non-limiting alternative embodiments, the coupling element 41 can be located on the outer side of the coupling wall 42 of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5.

[0160] It should be noted that the container 3 comprises a thread 34 with which the stopper 1 removably engages. The thread 34 is arranged to substantially correspond to the opening of the container 3. In embodiments in which the coupling element 41 is arranged inside the coupling wall 42, the thread 34 is arranged outside the portion of the container 3 that substantially corresponds to the opening. In embodiments in which the coupling element 41 is arranged outside the coupling wall 42, the thread 34 is arranged outside the portion of the container 3 that substantially corresponds to the opening. In other words, this means that the container 3 can be a container with an internal thread, or alternatively, a container with an external thread.

[0161] The first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 comprises a partition 4p arranged substantially transversely to the direction in which the connecting wall 42 extends, and therefore the partition 4p is arranged substantially in a plane perpendicular to the axis X. The partition 4p is a substantially central wall of the first part 4 and is centered on the axis X.

[0162] In one embodiment, the partition 4p has a generally circular shape along a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis X and includes first and second discharge holes 9. The first and second discharge holes 9 are each disposed at the same distance from the axis X. The presence of two discharge holes 9 should not be intended as limiting, as in alternative embodiments there can be only one discharge hole 9, in which case the discharge hole 9 can preferably be disposed substantially aligned with the axis X.

[0163] A substantially annular recess 43 extends between the partition wall 4p and the connecting wall 42 and is defined corresponding to the intermediate wall 44, and the intermediate wall has a substantially "U" shape when observed on a plane substantially including the axis X, thereby identifying the annular recess 43. The recess 43 opens substantially corresponding to the partition wall 4p.

[0164] The partition 4p has an upper side and a lower side. Corresponding to the upper side of the partition 4p are two substantially opposing recesses 11. Each recess 11 has a first end and a second end. The first end of each recess opens substantially corresponding to its own discharge hole 9. The second end of each recess terminates at a portion of the partition 4p remote from the discharge hole 9. Corresponding to the second end of each recess, there may be a small blind hole 11s with an outline substantially equal to or slightly larger than one of the discharge holes 9. In the accompanying drawings, the closure element 10 has a circular outline, and therefore the blind holes 11s or blind drillings preferably have a circular outline. The blind holes 11s or blind drillings are arranged corresponding to the bottom or main wall of the recess 11. This wall extends substantially in a plane perpendicular to the axis X.

[0165] In alternative embodiments, at least one recess 11, or two of the above-mentioned recesses 11, can be arranged in different walls relative to the partition 4p, and thus the arrangement of the recesses 11 on the partition 4p should not be intended as limiting. In particular, the configuration of the closure element 10, the configuration of the discharge holes and the configuration of the recesses 11 can be inverted with respect to the embodiments depicted in the accompanying drawings, and thus the recesses 11 can be located on the underside of the partition 5p of the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0166] The substantially elongated shape of the two recesses 11 identifies first and second end stroke positions for movement, in particular rotation, that can be achieved between the first and second portions 4, 5 of the first body 4, 5. The first end stroke position is determined when a closure element 10 (described better below) of the discharge hole 9 corresponds to the first end of the respective recess. The second end stroke position is determined when a closure element corresponds to the second end of the respective recess.

[0167] In a non-limiting embodiment, the first and second portions 4, 5 of the first body 4, 5 are configured to rotate back and forth through a rotation angle predefined by the first and second end stroke positions, which, while not limiting, is preferably less than 360°, preferably less than 180°, and more preferably substantially equal to a quarter turn (90°).

[0168] The two recesses 11 are shaped to outline a circumferential arc along a plane perpendicular to the axis X, and thus perpendicular to the axis of rotation that exists relative to the first and second parts 4, 5 of the first bodies 4, 5. The shape of the two recesses 11 (or of the single recess, if present) is conceived in order to make it possible to guide the first part 4 of the first bodies 4, 5 to rotate in correct positional relationship with respect to the second part 5 of the first bodies 4, 5.

[0169] If a particular embodiment of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 provides a single discharge hole 9, there is a single recess 11 on the partition 4p. This single recess 11 also preferably has the shape of a circumferential arc.

[0170] The Applicant observes in particular that, corresponding to the first ends of the recesses 11 (if there are two of them corresponding to the first ends of the recesses 11), there are connecting portions 11r which are curved and provide a sliding surface for the closure element without corners. The connecting portions 11r can be seen, for example, in FIG. 5.

[0171] As will be better explained in the description section below, since the opening of the tank 6 occurs by releasing the discharge hole 9 through a relative movement, in particular a relative rotation, between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the connecting part 11r preferably makes it possible to facilitate the escape of a closure element introduced into the discharge hole 9 when the tank is in the closed configuration.

[0172] The connecting portion 11r is configured and specifically defined to determine the change in height (as will be better explained below) taken by the closure element 10 of the discharge hole 9, in particular along the main deployment axis X of the stopper, during the movement of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to said second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 between said first relative position and said second relative position. This is possible thanks to the deformability and / or flexibility of the bulkhead 5p, on which the closure element 10 is arranged.

[0173] Preferably, regardless of the presence of the connecting portion 11r or otherwise, the object of the stopper 1 of the present disclosure is configured to allow the at least one closure element 10 to be unscrewed from the respective at least one discharge hole 9 via a snap, i.e., the movement of the closure element 10 from the first end stroke position occurs via said snap. For the purposes of the present disclosure, said snap translates into a release force greater than the force otherwise required to complete at least a portion of the rotation of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5. This preferably allows for greater safety when intentionally rotating the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0174] This snap is determined by a shoulder, preferably of approximately square contour, between the at least one discharge hole 9 and the connecting portion 11r.

[0175] The blind hole 11s allows the closure element 10 to be maintained in correspondence with the second end of the recess 11, reducing the risk of unintended relative movement between the first and second parts of the first bodies 4, 5 in the opposite direction from before, which can again determine the access of the closure element in the discharge hole 9. In particular, the blind hole 11s acts as an element configured and specifically designed to prevent reverse rotation of the second part of the first bodies 4, 5 relative to the first part of the first bodies 4, 5 as a result of the closure element 10 moving from the first end stroke position to the second end stroke position, or to reduce the risk of such reverse rotation in primarily undesired cases. Leakage of the closure element 10 through the blind hole 11s requires a reverse rotation force of the first part 4 of the first bodies 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first bodies 4, 5, which is much greater than the force that would otherwise be required to perform the remaining part of the rotation of the closure element 10, which is located in the recess 11 but outside the blind hole 11s. For this reason, the blind hole 11s may also be referred to as a safety or engagement element, or an anti-reverse rotation element. If a rotation that allows the displacement of the closure element 10 from the first end stroke position to the second end stroke position is defined as a direct rotation, the undercut 11 acts as a blocking element for reverse rotation, which is consequently defined as a rotation that allows the displacement of the closure element 10 from the second end stroke position towards the first end stroke position.

[0176] Referring to Figure 4 or Figure 5, direct rotation, while keeping the position of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 fixed, is a clockwise rotation of the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5.

[0177] In summary, both the snap disclosed above and the presence of the blind holes 11s as an anti-reverse rotation element make it possible to reduce the risk of unintentional opening of the tank 6 and subsequent re-closing of the tank 6.

[0178] The first portion 4 of the first body 4,5 also comprises a head wall 4t joined at a radially outer location to the connecting wall 41 or the upper end of the outer side wall.

[0179] Corresponding to the upper side of the head wall 4t, there may preferably be present a guide element 45 in the form of a substantially annular recess, which is configured to allow guiding of rotation between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 about an axis substantially coinciding with the axis X. In use, the guide element 45 cooperates with the annular recess 43 and with at least one recess 11 present corresponding to the partition 4p during relative rotation between the first part 4 and the second part 5.

[0180] If the threads are located on the inside of the connecting wall 42, then on the outside of the connecting wall 42, facing the inside, there may be elements (knurling, or even alternating recesses or ridges) designed to facilitate gripping by the user's fingers. Preferably, such elements extend seamlessly around the entire circumference of the outer surface of the connecting wall 42.

[0181] Corresponding to the lower part of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5, there is a substantially bell-shaped hollow 8, inside which is obtained a recess 8c or cavity. This cavity 8c is defined to realize a housing that contains the end of the rod 100 in use, and that is suitable for holding the rod, in particular by symmetrical introduction, and for this purpose the inner surface of the cavity 8c is provided with a number of retaining ribs 8n, each arranged along a direction that is preferably, but not exclusively, parallel to the direction identified by the axis X and projecting towards the center of the cavity 8c itself, which is precisely identified by the axis X.

[0182] A suitable spacer is placed in the cavity 8c to enable axial separation of the discharge hole 9 from the upper end of the rod 100 when the rod 100 is fully introduced into the recess 8c.

[0183] As observed from below, the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 in fact identifies a generally spiral-shaped recess or cavity 8c. At least two, preferably four, retaining walls realizing a plurality of retaining ribs 8n project radially inwards and thus towards the axis X in order to identify contact points with the end of the rod 100, so that a sliding friction occurs with a force sufficiently greater than the total weight of the device for collecting samples, preferably for collecting biological and / or microbiological material (including the weight of the sample itself), thereby enabling a firm hold in any operating configuration without risk of separation.

[0184] The two or four retaining walls realizing the plurality of retaining ribs are opposed to each other, in particular radially opposed to the deployment axis of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5.

[0185] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the retaining ribs 8n are two-by-two opposed, but this configuration should not be intended as limiting, as the applicant has envisaged further embodiments in which the retaining ribs 8n are three-by-three oriented at 120° in three directions perpendicular to the axis X. The number of ribs is obviously not limited.

[0186] When viewed along a plane perpendicular to axis X, the radially inner portions of retaining rib 8n exhibit a blade-like profile (pointed), and the four more radially inner portions of retaining rib 8n identify circumferential arcs of an ideal circle having a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of rod 100. The radially outer portions of retaining rib 8n opposite the radially inner portions are joined seamlessly to the side wall of cavity 8c.

[0187] In use, upon insertion of rod 100, the radially innermost portions of retaining ribs 8n elastically deform to retain the rod. In use, the upper end of rod 100 is introduced into cavity 8c and retained therein. As a result, when an operator removes or otherwise separates stopper 1 from container 3, rod 100 is retained with the stopper itself.

[0188] The stopper 1 acts as a handle for the rod 100, the technical effect of which is to preferably reduce the risk of contamination between the rod and the operator and advantageously prevent the rod from becoming contaminated with parts of the collected sample and / or residues of substance 2.

[0189] As shown diagrammatically in Figure 6, the channels 4v are present between the retaining ribs 8n and are realized in a preferred embodiment by spiral "blades", at least two of said channels 4v, and preferably all four channels 4v, are in direct communication with two discharge holes 9 (or in a relative embodiment with a single discharge hole 9).

[0190] The channel 4v is located in a radially outer portion relative to the portion of the cavity 8c which, in use, accommodates the rod 100 and is realized between two adjacent retaining ribs 8n in the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0191] However, the applicant has realized further embodiments not shown in the accompanying drawings, in which the channel 4v does not communicate with the cavity 8c, but is external to the cavity 8c or is otherwise separated from the cavity 8c, In these embodiments, the channel 4v may be arranged parallel to the main direction of deployment of the cavity 8c.

[0192] The material leaving the discharge hole 9 (or in a relative embodiment, from a single discharge hole 9) moves along the channel, slides along a direction approximately parallel to the axis X, and is pushed into a zone outside the side of the rod 100.

[0193] 4 and / or 6, the discharge holes 9 are at a greater radial distance from the axis X than the ideal circumferential radius identified by the radially inner portions of the retaining ribs 8 n. This solution is not intended to be limiting, as in alternative embodiments, the discharge holes 9 can be at a smaller radial distance from the axis X than the ideal circumferential radius identified by the radially inner portions of the retaining ribs 8 n.

[0194] Preferably, but not exclusively, the first part 4 includes an engagement area 48 defined to receive an engagement element 59 of the second part 5. This engagement element 59 is defined to facilitate movement, particularly rotational centering, between the first and second parts. The engagement area 48 preferably opens substantially corresponding to the partition wall 4p and is realized substantially corresponding to the recess 43 defined through the intermediate wall.

[0195] Preferably, the engagement region 48 comprises an undercut suitable to accommodate the protrusion of the engagement element of the second part 5 .

[0196] The second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 presents a side wall 52, which in a preferred embodiment has a generally circular cross section. The side wall 52 may be generally cylindrical or frusto-conical. The side wall 52 comprises an outer side and an inner side. Similar to what occurs in the connecting wall 42, the outer side of the side wall 52 may have elements (knurling, or even alternating recesses or ridges) designed to facilitate gripping by the user's fingers. Preferably, such elements extend seamlessly along the entire circumference of the outer surface of the side wall 52.

[0197] The second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 also comprises a bottom wall 5p or a partition wall. Preferably, at least a part of the bottom wall 5p or the partition wall is arranged in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis X, and like the partition wall of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5, the partition wall 5p of the second part 5 is also substantially centered on the axis X. The purpose of the partition wall 5p is to provide a bottom wall for the tank 6 and thus to substantially separate the tank 6 from the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5.

[0198] The inside of the side wall 52 is substantially smooth and preferably presents a substantially circular cross section, which allows the second body 7 to easily slide relative to the side wall 52 and thus determine the change in the volume of the tank 6. In this regard, reference is made to the difference between Figures 3 and 4, in which the second body 7 is introduced further into the side wall 52.

[0199] The partition 5p has at least one through hole 54 configured to allow the substance 2 to be withdrawn from the tank 6 by connecting the tank 6 with at least one drain hole 9. In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, there are two through holes 54, the radial distance of which relative to the axis X is equal to the radial distance taken by the drain hole 9 present in the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0200] The direction in which the through-hole 54 extends is preferably parallel to the axis X.

[0201] The partition 5p has an inner or upper side, which is the side that defines the tank 6, and an outer or lower side opposite the inner or upper side. The outer or lower side is the side that is substantially adjacent to or in contact with the partition 4p of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 in use.

[0202] The partition 5p may be substantially rigid or flexible, in particular bending along the axis X. The partition 5p extends entirely in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis X, and the effect of this bending is that the plane moves along the axis X itself.

[0203] Preferably, but not exclusively, the partition 5p provides a weakened portion 55 in the form of a generally annular recess, which can reduce the thickness of the partition 5p, or the particular shape of the partition is such that it locally promotes the above-mentioned bending, for example via a hump with a downwardly directed convex portion.

[0204] For example, as shown in FIG. 9, an annular recess 56 having a corresponding protuberance 56r that protrudes convexly downward or outward from the partition wall 5p is realized in correspondence with the weakened portion 55.

[0205] The ridge 56r is inserted, in use, into an annular recess provided by the guide element 45 on the head wall 4t.

[0206] The partition 5p is considered in particular to have an elastic deformation capacity that determines a local variation of its height along the direction identified by the axis X. This elastic deformation capacity is provided in particular by the weakened portion 55.

[0207] On the underside or outside of the partition 5p there are a first raised closure element 10 and a second raised closure element, the shape of which follows the shape of the drainage holes 9. The first and second closure elements, which are preferably circular, are realized integrally on the partition 5p, preferably by, but not limited to, an injection molding process.

[0208] The deformability of the partition 5p allows for a change in the height of the closure element 10 along the axis X and allows for leakage of the closure element 10 from the respective discharge holes 9 downwards upon rotation of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0209] The first and second closure elements 10 project downwards along a direction identified by the main deployment axis X of the stopper 1. In particular, the first and second closure elements 10 project, at least locally, substantially perpendicular to the dividing wall 5p. In the embodiment depicted in the accompanying drawings, the first and second closure elements 10 are substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0210] When only a single discharge hole 9 is present, there is only one first closure element. The through holes 54 are configured to couple with the respective discharge holes 9 as a substitute for the closure element 10 as a result of relative movement between the first portion 4 and the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5. The coupling between the through holes 54 and the respective discharge holes 9 is an axial coupling. As will be better explained below, and as can be seen, for example, in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the through holes 54 and the respective discharge holes 9 are coupled, they are aligned along an axis that is generally parallel to the axis X. FIG. 2 instead shows a configuration in which the through holes 54 are not aligned with the respective discharge holes 9.

[0211] The first and second closure elements 10 are particularly arranged and configured to allow closure of the drainage hole 9. In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the first and second closure elements 10 have a shape with a generally circular cross section.

[0212] In order to enable closure of the drain holes 9 as a result of the relative movement between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, in a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the radial distance of each closure element 10 from the axis X is equal to the radial distance of the drain holes 9 from the axis X.

[0213] When the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4 , 5 are assembled together, the closure element 10 is located in the recess 11 .

[0214] Preferably, but not exclusively, the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 is realized from a plastic material and by known molding techniques (e.g., injection molding, co-molding) that are not described in detail herein. As the second portion 5 comes into contact with the substance 2, the plastic material from which the second portion 5 is realized is carefully selected to be compatible with and not react with the substance 2. In one embodiment, the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 is realized in one piece.

[0215] The inner upper portion or end of the side wall 52 is provided with a radially inwardly projecting shoulder 5k which acts as a counter element for the complete withdrawal of the second body 7 from the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0216] Preferably, corresponding to the underside of the partition 5p of the first part 5 is an engagement element 59 suitable for engaging with the aforementioned engagement region 48. Preferably, this engagement element 59 protrudes from the underside of the partition 5p, but this protruding configuration should not be intended as limiting, as the engagement element 59 can protrude towards the inside of the partition 5p.

[0217] Whether this engaging element 59 projects outward or whether this engaging element 59 projects inward, the engaging element 59 preferably presents an annular profile that makes it possible to achieve relative rotation between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5. Leaving the engaging element 59 are protrusions that engage in undercuts in the engagement region 48. The protrusions extend at least partially in an oblique direction, preferably perpendicular, to the direction identified by the axis X.

[0218] Although the protrusions are oriented in a radially outward direction, such orientation should not be intended as limiting, as in alternative embodiments, this orientation may extend radially inward.

[0219] During the assembly step, deformation of a portion of the second body 7 allows the second body 7 to be introduced into the side wall 52. Removal is operably prevented by the shoulder 5k. For the purposes of this disclosure, "operably prevented" means that removal of the second body 7 from the side wall 52 so that at least the sealing element 71 is axially outward of the shoulder 5k is possible only by breaking. Furthermore, the force required to do so is preferably greater than the typical force available to an adult and robust human, or at least a human without the specific intention of destroying the stopper 1. This technical feature reduces the risk that an operator, user, or child may unintentionally remove the body 7 and unintentionally open the tank 6, resulting in the leakage of the substance 2.

[0220] Alternative Embodiments of the First and Second Parts Applicant notes that the presence of a pair of discharge holes 9 on the septum 4p of the first part, and the presence of the through hole 54 and the closure element 10 on the septum 5p of the second part 5, is not intended to be limiting. In particular, Applicant notes that alternative embodiments of the stopper 1 described herein, although not shown, may provide a substantially inverted configuration in this regard, in which the septum 5p of the second part 5 provides for the presence of at least one or more discharge holes 9, while the through holes and the closure element 10 may be arranged in pairs or more, or as a single unit, on the septum 4p of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5.

[0221] Relative movement between the first part 4 and the second part 5 for opening the tank 6 During the relative movement between the first part 4 and the second part 5, in particular by rotation about the axis X, this relative rotation determines the movement of the closure element 10 in the recess 11. To open the drain hole 9 and thus the tank 6, starting from a configuration similar to that of FIG. 10 , the relative rotation between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 determines the movement of the closure element 10 from the first end of the recess 11 towards the second end of the recess 11. The closure element, if present, moves out of the drain hole 9 by means of the connecting part 11r and / or by the action of bending of the partition 5p, first partially releasing the drain hole 9 and then completely releasing the drain hole 9.

[0222] By performing a relative rotation of the first part 4 with respect to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the closure element 10 correspondingly reaches the second end of the recess 11 and strikes the wall of the recess itself. At this point, the closure element 10 enters the blind hole 11s, if any (Fig. 11).

[0223] The gradual movement of the first part 4 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 causes the through hole 54 to be progressively aligned axially with the drain hole 9 until the closure element 10 reaches a complete overlap corresponding to the second end of the recess 11.

[0224] Therefore, in light of the above, it is clear that the "second relative position" between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 is defined as the position where the closure element 10 corresponds to the discharge hole 9 and / or corresponds to the first end of the recess 11, and that the "first relative position" between the first part 4 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 is defined as the position where the closure element 10 corresponds to the blind hole 11s or in some way substantially corresponds to the second end of the recess 11, and that when the first part 4 is in said second relative position with respect to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the discharge hole 9 is isolated from said tank 6, and when the second part 4 is in said first relative position with respect to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the discharge hole 9 is in communication with said tank 6.

[0225] In other words, when the first part 4 is in said second relative position with respect to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the closure element 10 is at least partially, preferably completely, positioned within the respective discharge hole 9 and / or seals said discharge hole 9, and when the first part 4 is in said first relative position with respect to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the closure element 10 is at least partially, preferably completely, positioned outside the respective discharge hole 9 and / or at least partially, preferably completely, releases the respective discharge hole 9.

[0226] In a preferred embodiment, the object of the stopper 1 of the present disclosure comprises positional reference elements 94 configured and specifically defined to enable identification of a predefined spatial orientation of the stopper 1. Opposite positional reference elements 94 are represented, for example, in Figure 7 or Figure 10. More particularly, the spatial reference elements 94 are configured and specifically defined to enable identification of the orientation of the stopper 1 relative to the rotation axis X.

[0227] In the embodiment of the stopper 1 represented in the accompanying drawings, the position reference element 94 is arranged corresponding to the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 and makes it possible to identify a reference position of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the rotation axis X. In this way, the position reference element 94 also makes it possible to identify a reference position of the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the rotation axis X.

[0228] Preferably, the position reference elements 94 are notches realized on the outer surface of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5. This is the solution represented in the attached drawings, in particular where the position reference elements 94 in the form of notches are numerically two and are arranged in an opposing manner. The position reference elements 94 in the form of notches may also be numerically equal to three or more, or there may be a single position reference 94 in the form of a notch.

[0229] The notch is realized in such a way as to make it possible to define a first accessible outer portion of the stopper 1 and a second accessible outer portion of the stopper 1 (different from the first accessible outer portion of the stopper 1) that is non-axially symmetrical to the first accessible outer portion of the stopper 1.

[0230] Alternatively, the position reference element 94 can be realized in the form of a protrusion, which can identify a convexity on the outside of the coupling wall 42 .

[0231] Further alternatively, the position reference elements 94 can be realized as local variations in the knurling pattern present on the exterior of the connecting wall 42 and / or can include graphics (e.g., QR codes) or alphanumeric patterns realized by printing, painting, or laser engraving. In this case, the position reference elements 94 can be substantially flush with the exterior of the connecting wall. The position reference elements 94 can substantially correspond to the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5, or can be positioned as an alternative to or in combination with the position reference elements 94 positioned on the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5.

[0232] The position reference element 94 is conceivable for the purpose of facilitating manual, partially manual or fully automated assembly of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 with the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, in particular by identifying a predefined relative rotational position of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 with respect to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, thereby enabling axial alignment between the closure element 10 and the respective recess 11.

[0233] The position reference element 94 is also conceivable for the purpose of facilitating the handling of the stopper 1 during use, in particular in the step of prodromic release of the substance 2 by the effect of movement of the second body 7 relative to the first bodies 4, 5.

[0234] Second Body 7 The second body 7 is at least partially introduced into the first body 4,5, in particular into the second portion 5 of the first body 4,5.

[0235] Preferably, but not exclusively, the second body 7 substantially identifies a body of revolution which unfolds along a predefined main axis, which coincides with the main axis of unfolding X of the stopper 1 when the second body 7 is coupled in an operational configuration with the first bodies 4, 5. In a preferred embodiment, this second body 7 is substantially axially symmetrical, considering at least its first and second parts.

[0236] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the second body 7 is a one-piece, monolithic body, preferably realized in a single injection molding process, which ensures low manufacturing costs for the second body 7.

[0237] The movement of the second body 7 relative to the first bodies 4, 5 during use, in particular the movement between the second body 7 and the second part 5 of the first bodies 4, 5 between the first and second positions, determines the change in volume of the tank 6. In other words: when the second body 7 assumes said first position relative to the first body 4, 5, in particular when the second body 7 assumes the first position relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the tank 6 assumes a first volume; and When the second body 7 assumes the second position relative to the first bodies 4, 5, the tank 6 assumes a second volume.

[0238] The first position is the maximum axial extension of the stopper 1 and / or the second body 7 relative to the first body 4, 5, in particular relative to the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5. In this first position, the second body 7 extends to the greatest extent outside the first body 4, 5, in particular outside the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0239] The second position is the minimum axial extension of the stopper 1 and / or the second body 7 relative to the first body 4, 5, in particular relative to the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5. In this second position, the second body 7 extends to the smallest extent outside the first body 4, 5, in particular outside the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0240] The volume of tank 6 changes as follows: when the second body 7 assumes said first position relative to the first body 4, 5, in particular relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, the volume is maximum; When the second body 7 assumes said second position relative to the first body 4, 5, in particular relative to the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5, the volume is at a minimum.

[0241] Preferably, but not exclusively, the minimum volume is substantially the volume of the void.

[0242] Corresponding to the end, in particular the lower end, the second body 7 is provided with a sealing element 71 in the form of an annular wall which preferably, but not exclusively, slopes downwards, i.e. towards the bottom part of the tank 6 realised by the partition 5p.

[0243] In a non-limiting embodiment, this sealing element can be realized in the form of an O-ring of a resilient material, preferably a polymer, that is compatible with the substance contained in the tank 6 .

[0244] The sealing element 71 is substantially flexible and / or deformable, and if in the form of an annular wall, this annular wall, when introduced into the side wall 52 of the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, is bent in order to determine substantial and effective contact with the inside of the side wall 52.

[0245] The sealing element 71 in the form of an annular wall defines a skirt that exhibits a relative elastic flexibility, such as bending to an extent that it allows the introduction of the second body 7 into the side wall 52 of at least the second part of the first body 4, 5. In particular, the flexibility of the annular wall is preferably such that, by said bending, it can temporarily reduce the characteristic diameter substantially identified by it in the rest state by 10% to 20%, for example preferably 15%, without breaking (to allow introduction into the side wall 52), and then return to substantially the same original diameter by elastic release. Advantageously, at least this annular wall is realized from a suitable plastic material.

[0246] The second body 7 comprises a bottom wall 72 arranged substantially in a plane perpendicular to the axis X. The bottom wall 72 identifies a central bottom of the second body 7 and is centred on the axis X. A radially outer end of the bottom wall 72 can be joined seamlessly with the sealing element 71, particularly if it is in the form of an annular wall.

[0247] The bottom wall 72 and the sealing element 71 define the tank 6 above and define its upper movable wall. The volume of the tank 6 is thus defined by at least one upper movable wall which is part of the second body 7.

[0248] The bottom wall 72 preferably houses a protrusion 73 having the same form as the annular recess 56, the protrusion 73 being configured to be introduced into the annular recess 56 when the second body 7 is substantially pushed towards the end stroke portion and determines that the minimum volume of the tank 6 is reached.

[0249] The second body 7 also includes a generally cylindrical portion 74 that substantially defines the upper portion of the second body 7. The generally cylindrical portion 74 is configured to engage with a user's finger and directly contact the finger for movement between the first and second positions. The generally cylindrical portion 74 includes a first end and a second end, with the first end of the cylindrical portion 74 joined to the bottom wall 72. In one embodiment, the second body 7 is integrally realized by a molding technique, and therefore, the joins between various portions described herein are intended only to identify them for clarity of description; in fact, the second body 7 is integrally realized, and therefore, no portions are joined by the aforementioned post-molding process.

[0250] The generally cylindrical portion 74 has a substantially smooth outer surface and an inner surface on which a plurality of reinforcing ribs 74c, extending generally parallel to the axis X, project radially toward the center of the generally cylindrical portion 74. Corresponding to the first portion is a centering ring 75 projecting radially outward. The maximum diameter defined by the centering ring 75 is approximately close to the diameter defined by the inner side of the side wall 52. In this manner, the centering ring 75 cooperates with the sealing element 71 in the form of an annular wall to maintain axial movement of the second body 7 along the axis X. The center of the generally cylindrical portion 74 is therefore substantially coincident with the axis X.

[0251] The second end of the generally cylindrical portion 74 is open to allow direct access to the reinforcing rib 74c.

[0252] The applicant notes that the second body 7 can be moved relative to the first body by axial (linear) translation along the axis X, but also rotated about the axis X. This is the case when the cross-section of the side wall 52 of the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5, and consequently of the sealing element 71, is such that it identifies a substantially circular shape. This solution should not be considered limiting, but is expressly intended as preferred, since, for example, the side wall 52, and consequently the inside of the sealing element 71, may present a substantially polygonal cross-section, in which case some sealing problems may be observed corresponding to the corners.

[0253] Peeling element In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the stopper 1 can comprise at least one peelable element 80. The peelable element 80 can be advantageously realized by a sheet of flexible and / or bendable material, which can be a single-layer sheet or a multi-layer sheet.

[0254] If it is single layer, the sheet can be made of plastic material or aluminum.

[0255] If multi-layered, the sheet preferably comprises a layer of plastic material and a layer of aluminium.

[0256] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the peelable element 80 is joined to the first body 4, 5 by an adhesive step, a welding step (e.g., ultrasonically), or one of further known techniques not described herein.

[0257] Preferably, but not exclusively, the peelable element 80 can be positioned substantially corresponding to the lower edge of the first body 4, 5, which will first come into contact with the opening of the container 3 during use.

[0258] The peelable element 80 may be appropriately provided when the substance 2 contained in the tank 6 is toxic, corrosive, strongly acidic or basic, strongly hydrophilic, flammable, potentially explosive, or capable of reacting rapidly with air or liquid in some way (e.g., involving an exothermic reaction).

[0259] Advantageously, the use of the peelable element 80 allows the substance 2 to be retained within the stopper 1 even if a user unintentionally rotates the first portion 4 of the first bodies 4, 5 relative to the second portion 5 of the first bodies 4, 5, and possibly also presses against the second body 7. The peelable element 80 thus provides a barrier against unintentional contact with the substance when the first and second portions of the first bodies 4, 5 are inadvertently rotated between them to define an opening for the reservoir 6, and the peelable element 80 also provides an element that can prevent dispersion of the substance contained in the reservoir 6 when the first and second portions of the first bodies 4, 5 are rotated between them to define an opening for the reservoir 6.

[0260] The peelable element 80 may be configured to break as a result of and by effect of engagement of the stopper 1 with the container 3 and / or may be broken by the rod 100 .

[0261] In a non-limiting embodiment, the peelable element 80 can also be provided with a tab 81 that projects outward from the dimensions generally defined by the first bodies 4, 5, particularly from the shape generally defined by the connecting wall 42 or from the outer sidewall. This tab 81 is specifically intended to facilitate gripping by the user.

[0262] The peelable element 80 can be pierceable, for example, by the introduction of the rod 100, and therefore does not need to be manually removed prior to the introduction of the rod 100. However, such manual removal is still preferred.

[0263] Handling for removal of substance 2 This disclosure generally describes a method for handling a stopper 1, the method comprising: a first engagement step of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5; a second engagement step of the second portions 5 of the first bodies 4, 5; a first movement step including movement of the first portion 4 relative to the second portion 5 between a first relative position and a second relative position, the first movement step occurring after the first engagement step and the second engagement step; an engagement step of the second body 7; a second movement step subsequent to the first movement step, the second movement step including movement of the second body 7 relative to the first body 4, 5 between the first position and the second position; Including, The second transfer step determines at least partial leakage of the substance 2 from the tank 6 through at least one drain hole 9 .

[0264] The object of the stopper 1 of the present disclosure is specifically configured to be handled by a user. The operation performed by the user to remove the substance 2 from the stopper 1 will be described in more detail below:

[0265] engaging the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 and engaging the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5, e.g. with the fingers of a first hand and a second hand; thereafter, rotating the first part 4 of the first body 4,5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4,5 so as to determine the movement of the closure element 10 in the recess 11 and to allow the discharge hole 9 (or the single discharge hole 9, if present as a single one) to be released and the tank 6 to be in the open configuration (conversion of the tank between the closed configuration and the open configuration of the tank); Thereafter, engaging the second body 7; Then, the second body 7 is pushed axially to move it from a first position relative to the first bodies 4, 5, particularly relative to the second portion 5 of the first bodies 4, 5, towards a second position relative to the first bodies 4, 5, particularly relative to the second portion 5 of the first bodies 4, 5, so as to determine a gradual decrease in the volume of the tank 6 and force leakage of the substance 2 from at least one discharge hole 9.

[0266] The rotation occurs in a predefined rotational direction starting from a first end stroke position of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5. This predefined rotational direction can be, for example, but is not limited to, clockwise.

[0267] The rotation ends corresponding to the second end stroke position assumed by the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5. The rotation ends in particular when the closure element 10 comes into contact with the bottom wall of the recess 11 and is introduced into the blind hole 11s, if present, since the shape of the recess 11 dictates a sudden increase in the force required to rotate the first part of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part of the first body 4, 5, corresponding to the second end stroke position.

[0268] The rotation determines the movement of the closing element 10 of at least one discharge hole 9 of the stopper 1 from a first position in which the closing element 10 closes the at least one discharge hole 9 and determines a closed configuration of the tank 6, to a second position in which the closing element 10 opens the at least one discharge hole 9 and determines an open configuration of the tank 6.

[0269] The linear translation of the second body 7 relative to the first bodies 4, 5 determines a gradual decrease in the volume of the tank 6 and / or a gradual leakage of the substance contained in the tank 6, and ends when at least a part of the second body 7 comes into contact with an end stroke element arranged correspondingly to the first bodies 4, 5 (optionally the bottom wall of the tank 6).

[0270] If the aforementioned peelable element 80 is present, it is convenient for the user to remove the peelable element 80 before engaging the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 to determine their relative rotation.

[0271] In use, it is convenient for the detachment of the peelable element 80 to occur before the relative rotation between the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 and the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 (and before the first movement step), but due to the function of the peelable element 80 itself, it is highly preferred that the detachment occurs before the linear translation of the second body 7 relative to the first body 4, 5 and before the second movement step.

[0272] Preferably, but not exclusively, at least one of the first engagement step of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 and the second engagement step of the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 includes identifying the position of the position reference element 94, and the movement of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 occurs by defining, for example visually, a predefined positional relationship of the rotation of the first part 4 and / or the second part 5 about the axis X, and subsequently performing the above-mentioned movement (rotation) to determine the opening of the at least one discharge hole 9.

[0273] Machine operable The object of the stopper 1 of the present disclosure can preferably be configured to be handled by a user and by an automated machine, for example, but not limited to, a machine for the analysis of a sample, preferably a sample of biological and / or microbiological material.

[0274] The machine may be particularly configured to removably engage the container 3 and / or the stopper 1 in correspondence with the outside of at least one of the elements of the second body 7, the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5, the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5.

[0275] In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, the machine is configured to at least temporarily hold the stopper 1 in a particular positional relationship relative to the container 3, such that the container 3 is positioned at a lower height than the stopper itself, with the opening facing upward. For purposes of this disclosure, "upward" contemplates a direction opposite to the floor on which the machine itself is located in use.

[0276] Alternatively or in combination with the above, the machine described herein may be a machine comprising a handler configured to engage with an inner portion of the second body 7, in particular with the reinforcing rib 74c, or with the second end of the generally cylindrical portion 74, for example, to press this generally cylindrical body, so as to determine the axial movement of the second body 7 relative to the first bodies 4, 5 along the axis X.

[0277] In one embodiment, the machine comprises at least one handler configured to determine a relative movement of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 between at least a first relative position and a second relative position, and / or to determine a relative movement between the second body 7 and the first body 4, 5 between the first position and said second position.

[0278] Preferably, but not exclusively, the machine comprises a handler which, in use, temporarily maintains the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5 in a predefined fixed position and moves the second part 5 of the first body 4, 5 to determine its aforementioned movements, in particular rotation.

[0279] The machine may also be configured to engage the first portion 4 of the first body 4,5 via a first handler and to engage the second portion 5 of the first body 4,5 via a second handler. The machine may be configured to actuate the first portion and the second handler to determine a relative movement between the first portion 4 of the first body 4,5 and the second portion 5 of the first body 4,5, in particular a relative rotation about an axis substantially coincident with axis X.

[0280] In a preferred embodiment, the machine may be configured to operate: engaging a first portion 4 of the first body 4,5 via a first handler and engaging a second portion 5 of the first body 4,5 via a second handler; thereafter, rotating the first part 4 of the first body 4,5 relative to the second part 5 of the first body 4,5 so as to determine the movement of the closure element 10 in the recess 11 and to release the discharge hole 9 (or the single discharge hole 9 if present in a single unit) and allow the tank 6 to be in the open configuration (conversion of the tank between the closed configuration and the open configuration of the tank); thereafter engaging the second body 7 via one of the first handler and the second handler and / or via a further handler; Then, pushing the second body 7 axially from its first position relative to the first bodies 4, 5, particularly relative to the second portion 5 of the first bodies 4, 5, towards the second portion relative to the first bodies 4, 5, particularly relative to the second portion 5 of the first bodies 4, 5, so as to determine a gradual decrease in the volume of the tank 6 and force leakage of the substance 2 from at least one discharge hole 9.

[0281] The machines described herein may also be provided with tweezers or equivalent devices configured to engage and remove peelable element 80 .

[0282] The machines described herein may be configured to identify the presence of at least one position reference element 94 on the stopper 1. In particular, in this case, a handler that, in use, engages the first body 4,5 engages the first body 4,5 such that at least one of the first part 4 of the first body 4,5 and the second part 5 of the first body 4,5 are arranged in a predefined rotational relationship about the axis X.

[0283] In certain embodiments, the machines described herein can be configured to engage the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 and / or the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 in a predefined positional relationship with at least one position reference element 94, as well as to engage the stopper 1, more specifically at least one of the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5 and the second portion 5 of the first body 4, 5 in correspondence with said position reference element.

[0284] The machines described herein operate substantially automatically to perform the operations of the operability described in this disclosure. The various components of the machines described above are controlled via a control unit, preferably including one or more of a general-purpose or special-purpose processor, ASIC, FPGA, or PLC, and a software program may be provided that includes code portions that, when executed by the control unit, cause the operations described above to be performed.

[0285] The control unit determines the actuation of mechanical, electromechanical, pneumatic or hydraulic or even optical actuators to carry out the aforementioned steps.

[0286] Removable engagement of the stopper with a device for taking a sample In the preceding part of the description it has been explained that, corresponding to the lower part of the first part 4 of the first body 4, 5, there is a generally bell-shaped hollow part 8, within which a recess 8c or cavity is obtained. This cavity 8c is defined to provide a housing adapted to removably hold the end of the rod 100 in use.

[0287] This rod 100 is part of a device intended for collecting samples, preferably samples of biological and / or microbiological material, in particular from the surface or cavity of a human or animal body, and / or for carrying out the collection of material present in the environment.

[0288] The device for taking a sample comprises at least one rod 100 and one swab 101 .

[0289] The rod 100 described herein is a substantially elongated body made of, but not limited to, a flocked material, which in certain embodiments may be provided by, for example, a cotton swab 101. Preferably, but not exclusively, the rod 100 is made of a flexible plastic material.

[0290] The body extends along the axial direction. When a rod is introduced into the hollow portion 8 and held in the cavity 8c, the rod extends along the axis X.

[0291] Generally speaking, for the purposes of this disclosure, the swab 101 may be joined to the rod 100, may at least partially overlap the rod 100, or may be realized on the rod 100.

[0292] In certain embodiments, the swab 101 can be configured to be separated from the rod 100 in response to one or more weakened portions located in the body of the rod 101 itself, which can also extend within the swab 101.

[0293] In one embodiment, the rod 100 may be hollow and preferably provided with at least one drain hole near the swab 101 to allow material 2 leaking from the at least one drain hole 9 to enter the rod 100 and leak near the drain hole near the swab 101.

[0294] In a non-limiting embodiment, the swab 101 can be realized with a material specifically designated for the preservation of biological and / or microbiological materials or can be chemically treated to facilitate the preservation of biological and / or microbiological materials. For the purposes of this disclosure, "preservation" is intended to maintain the microbiological or biological characteristics of the collected sample as unchanged as possible; preferably, the chemical treatment can be such that the characteristics of the sample can be maintained for two weeks or more.

[0295] Further considerations regarding the realization of the body of the stopper 1.

[0296] The stopper 1, and preferably both the first body 4, 5 and the second body 7, are preferably made of a plastic material that is resistant to acids and / or corrosive substances and / or is made of a biodegradable plastic material that is suitable not to release substances when in contact with a biological sample.

[0297] The use of plastic material advantageously allows the stopper 1 to be realized in a cost-effective manner, for example through an injection molding process.

[0298] In certain embodiments, the plastic material from which the stopper is realized is opaque, so that substance 2 cannot be seen from outside the stopper itself. By hiding substance 2 and not allowing it to freely transfer within container 3, the risk of ingesting or otherwise coming into contact with substance 2 by a determined number of children who may have access to stopper 1 described herein is reduced. The use of an opaque stopper is also preferred when substance 2 contained in reservoir 6 is light-sensitive, thus reducing the risk of degradation of substance 2 itself if the stopper object of the present disclosure were to be left in an area exposed to light for extended periods of time.

[0299] Although up to now the discharge stopper 1 has been described as being provided with a thread for coupling with the container 3, this particular technical characteristic is not intended to be limiting and, in fact, in embodiments not shown in the accompanying drawings, the detachable coupling can be achieved via a clip arranged on the stopper 1 that is suitable for engaging in an undercut present in the container 3, or vice versa, via a clip arranged on the container 3 that is suitable for engaging in an undercut present in the outer surface of the stopper 1. It is observed here that the clip can be configured to cause an associated compression of the stopper 1 relative to the container 3 during closure, determining a reduction in the axial extension along the axis X of the assembly formed by the stopper 1 and the container 3.

[0300] The stopper 1 object of the present disclosure can be realized and sold singly or can be realized and / or sold as a kit. In particular, said kit includes the stopper 1, and A device 100, 101 for collecting a sample, preferably for collecting biological and / or microbiological material, comprising, as previously described, a rod 100 and a swab 101 joined to said rod 100, at least partially superimposed on said rod 100, realized on said rod 100 and configured and specifically designed to allow the collection and / or storage of a sample of biological and / or microbiological material, a container 3 for a sample, preferably for a sample of biological and / or microbiological material, configured to be removably coupled to the stopper 1 in correspondence with the opening and specifically designed to accommodate a device 100, 101 for collecting the sample, an adapter configured and specified to correspond to the first body 4, 5, optionally corresponding to the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5, to be removably coupled to the stopper 1, the adapter configured and specified to removably couple the stopper 1 to an auxiliary device; may comprise at least one of:

[0301] For example, but without limitation, this auxiliary device can be an auxiliary container for the sample, or a duct for the release of substance 2, or even a cartridge.

[0302] The adapter is configured and specified to be removably coupled to the first body, in particular the first portion 4 of the first body 4, 5. Preferably, but not exclusively, the adapter is provided with a head wall provided with threads that match the threads, in particular the threads disposed on the coupling wall 42.

[0303] In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the adapter is realized in a plastic material, for example the same plastic material as that realized in one of the first bodies 4, 5 or the second body 7. This allows a slight optimization of the manufacturing costs of the kit.

[0304] The object of this disclosure is not to be limited to the embodiments depicted in the drawings, and for this reason, the numerals and reference signs in the claims should be considered non-limiting and are provided solely to enhance the comprehension of the claims.

[0305] It is finally clear that modifications or variations obvious to a person skilled in the art can be applied to the object of the present invention without departing from the scope provided by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stopper (1) for releasing a substance (2) into a container (3) for a sample, a first body (4, 5) configured to removably engage said container (3); a second body (7) coupled to the first body (4, 5) and movable relative to the first body (4, 5); at least one tank (6) configured to contain said substance (2) and defined within said first body (4, 5) or between said first body (4, 5) and said second body (7); At least The first body (4, 5) a first part (4) configured to be directly coupled to the container (3) and comprising a coupling element (41) configured to enable detachable fastening of the stopper (1) corresponding to an opening of the container (3) defining a first mounting configuration of the stopper on the container, wherein in the first mounting configuration, preferably, the stopper (1) closes the container (3); a second part (5) movably connected to the first part (4), the second part (5) realizing at least a part of the bottom wall and / or the side wall of the tank (6) and capable of being in at least one first relative position with respect to the first part (4) and at least one second relative position with respect to the first part (4); At least the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) is directly connected to the second body (7); the tank (6) has at least one first opening configuration and one second closing configuration, the first opening configuration being determined by the first relative position between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), and the second closing configuration being determined by the second relative position between the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5); Stopper (1).

2. The tank (6) has a volume that is variable between at least a first volume and a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume; the second body (7) is configured to assume at least one first position and one second position relative to the first body (4, 5); the movement of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) between the first position and the second position, in use, determines the change in volume of the tank (6), and / or the tank (6) takes on the first volume when the second body (7) is in the first position relative to the first body (4, 5), and the tank (6) takes on the second volume when the second body (7) is in the second position relative to the first body (4, 5), Optionally, said second body (7) is movable relative to said first body (4, 5) between said first position and said second position by at least one axial translation; Optionally, said first position and said second position are end stroke positions for said axial translation, and said first volume is a maximum volume and / or said second volume is a minimum volume; said stopper (1) provides a main deployment axis (X), said axial translation occurring along a direction parallel to, and preferably substantially coinciding with, said main deployment axis (X); The stopper according to claim 1 .

3. at least one drain hole (9) for allowing the substance (2) to be drained from the tank (6); the at least one discharge hole (9) is disposed in the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5), and the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one closure element (10) configured to removably engage within the at least one discharge hole (9), and at least one through-hole (54) configured to couple with the discharge hole (9) as an alternative to the at least one closure element (10); or the at least one discharge hole (9) is disposed in the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), and the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one closure element (10) configured to removably engage within the at least one discharge hole (9), and at least one through-hole (54) configured to couple with the discharge hole (9) as an alternative to the closure element (10); Preferably, when the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the second relative position with respect to the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5), the closure element (10) is at least partially, preferably completely, located within the discharge hole (9) and / or seals the discharge hole (9) so that the through hole (54) is decoupled from the discharge hole (9), and when the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the first relative position with respect to the second part (5), the closure element (10) is at least partially, preferably completely, located outside the discharge hole (9) and / or at least partially, preferably completely, releases the discharge hole (9) so that the through hole (54) is coupled to the discharge hole (9); Optionally, when the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the second relative position with respect to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), the at least one discharge hole (9) is sealed with respect to the tank (6), and when the second portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) is in the first relative position with respect to the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5), the at least one discharge hole (9) is in communication with the tank (6). The stopper according to claim 1 or 2.

4. configured to be removably coupled to a rod (100) of a device (100, 101) for collecting samples, preferably configured to be removably coupled to a rod (100) of a device (100, 101) for collecting samples of biological or microbiological material, the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one cavity (8c) realising a housing adapted to removably hold, in use, an end of the rod (100); the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one channel (4v) in communication with the at least one discharge hole (9), the at least one channel (4v) being configured and specified to allow discharge of the substance (2) withdrawn from the tank (6) substantially adjacent to the rod (100); Optionally, said channel (4v) communicates with or is part of said cavity (8c); A stopper according to any one or more of claims 1 to 3.

5. the cavity (8c) is configured to allow the introduction of the end of the rod (100) by axial insertion, the cavity (8c) is configured to allow axial insertion of the end of the rod (100) along an axis parallel to or coinciding with the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1); the second portion (4) of the first body (4, 5) comprises at least one retaining rib (8n), preferably a plurality of retaining ribs (8n), corresponding to the cavity (8c), the plurality of retaining ribs (8n) comprising at least one pair of retaining ribs (8n), more preferably at least four retaining ribs (8n); the at least one retaining rib (8n) projects radially toward the center of the cavity (8c) and is configured to provide sliding friction with the end of the rod (100) when introduced into the cavity (8c); the at least one retaining rib (8n) is elastically deformable; Preferably, said plurality of retaining ribs (8n) realise said at least one channel (4v) and / or said at least one channel (4v) is arranged between two adjacent retaining ribs; The stopper according to claim 4.

6. the second portion (5) of the first body (4,5) is rotatably connected to the first portion (4) of the first body (4,5), and there is a predetermined rotation between the first portion (4) of the first body (4,5) and the second portion (5) of the first body (4,5) between the first relative position and the second relative position; Preferably, the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) is rotatably connected to the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and is configured to rotate relative to the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) on an axis that substantially coincides with the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1); and / or the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) is rotatably connected to the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) on an axis that substantially coincides with the translation axis of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5), the translation axis of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) substantially coinciding with the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1). A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

7. at least one of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and / or the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises a respective partition (4p, 5p) that is deformable, preferably elastically deformable, and preferably the partition (4p, 5p) is at least partially, preferably substantially completely, arranged perpendicular to the main deployment axis (X) and / or perpendicular to the translation axis of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5); and a movement between the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) between the first relative position and the second relative position determines, in use, a deformation, preferably an elastic deformation, of at least one of the dividing wall (4p) of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the dividing wall (5p) of the second part (5), the partition (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) forms the bottom wall of the tank (6); A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

8. 8. The stopper according to claims 3 and 7, wherein alternatively, the at least one discharge hole (9) is realized on the partition wall (4p) of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the at least one through-hole (54) and the at least one closure element (10) are arranged on the partition wall (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5), or the at least one discharge hole (9) is realized on the partition wall (5p) of the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) and the at least one through-hole (54) and the at least one closure element (10) are arranged on the partition wall (4p) of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5).

9. said first part (4) of said first body (4, 5) comprises at least one first recess (11) through which said at least one closure element (10) slides during said relative movement, and optionally said rotation, between said first part (4) and said second part (5) of said first body (4, 5), said recess (11) being a recess substantially defining a curved profile, optionally a circumferential arc, and / or accommodating said at least one discharge hole (9); Optionally, said at least one drain hole (9) is located substantially corresponding to a first end of said at least one first recess (11); Optionally, said at least one first recess (11) is arranged on said partition wall (4p) of said first portion (4) of said first body (4, 5). A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

10. 10. The stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims, configured to allow movement between the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) and the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) from the first relative position towards the second relative position via an initial snap and / or an initial application of a force greater than the force required to complete the movement from the first relative position towards the second relative position.

11. 11. A stopper according to claims 9 and 10, wherein removal of the at least one closure element (10) from the at least one discharge hole (9) is enabled by the initial snap and / or by the initial application of a force greater than the force required to complete the movement from the first relative position to the second relative position.

12. 10. The stopper according to claim 9, wherein the at least one recess (11) has a substantially elongated shape and / or has at least one main direction of deployment and defines first and second end stroke positions for the relative movement, preferably the relative rotation, between the first and second parts (4, 5) of the first body (4, 5).

13. at least one safety or engagement element (11s) configured to allow movement of the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5) relative to the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) from the first relative position towards the second relative position and to prevent movement, in particular backlash, from the second relative position to the first relative position, the safety or engagement element (11s) is preferably configured to allow rotation of the second part (5) of the first body (4,5) relative to the first part (4) of the first body (4,5) in a first rotational sense, and to prevent rotation of the second part (5) of the first body (4,5) relative to the first part (4) of the first body (4,5) in a second rotational sense opposite to the first rotational sense when a predefined rotational position between the second part (5) of the first body (4,5) and the first part (4) of the first body (4,5) is reached. A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

14. said safety or engagement element (11s) being realized in correspondence with said at least one first recess (11); the safety or engagement element (11s) is an anti-reverse element and / or comprises at least one blind hole arranged corresponding to at least the first recess (11); and the predefined rotational position corresponds to the second end stroke position and / or a predefined end of the at least one first recess (11), A stopper according to claims 12 and 13.

15. the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) has a side wall (52) that defines at least a portion of the tank (6), and the second body (7) is at least partially introduced into the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5) and is in contact with the side wall (52); the second body (7) comprises a sealing element (71) which is in direct contact with the side wall (52) in use, the sealing element (71) being deformable, in particular elastically deformable, and which deforms and contacts the side wall (52) when the second body (7) is at least partially introduced into the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5), the second body (7) has a bottom wall (72) substantially joined to the sealing element (71), the bottom wall (72) and the sealing element (71) defining the tank (6) above; Optionally, said sealing element (71) comprises an annular wall arranged radially at an outer position of said bottom wall (72) or projecting radially from said bottom wall (72), said annular wall comprising a radially outer portion exerting friction, in particular sliding friction, during movement of said second body (7) between said first position and said second position. A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

16. a peelable element (80) disposed substantially corresponding to the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5), the peelable element (80) being configured and specifically designed to act as a barrier against contact with or removal of the substance (2) when the substance (2) leaks from the tank (6) through the at least one drain hole (9); said peelable element (80) comprises a sheet of flexible and / or bendable material, optionally comprising at least one of a layer of plastic material and a layer of metal material, preferably aluminium; said peelable element (80) is, in use, integrated into said first portion (4) of said first body (4, 5) by at least one of an adhesive process and / or a welding process, said welding being preferably ultrasonic welding; A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

17. the second part (5) of the first body (4, 5) comprises an engagement element (59) with the first part (4) of the first body (4, 5), the engagement element (59) being configured to maintain one movably constrained end of the second part (5), preferably a lower end of the second part (5), at an end of the first part (4), preferably an upper end of the first part (4); said engaging element (59) is configured and specified to determine and maintain centering of said second part (5) relative to said first part (4), preferably configured and specified to determine and maintain centering of said movement of said second part (5) relative to said first part (4) between said first relative position and said second relative position, said centering optionally being on said main deployment axis (X) of said stopper (1); A stopper according to any one or more of the preceding claims.

18. A stopper (1) according to any one or more of claims 1 to 17, and A device (100, 101) for collecting a sample, preferably for collecting a sample of biological or microbiological material, comprising a rod (100) and a swab (101) joined to said rod (100), at least partially superimposed on said rod (100), realized on said rod (100) and preferably configured and specifically designed to allow the collection and / or storage of a sample of biological or microbiological material, a container (3) for a sample, preferably a container (3) for a sample of biological or microbiological material, configured and specifically designed to be removably coupled to said stopper (1) in correspondence with an opening, and specifically designed to accommodate said device (100, 101) for collecting the sample; an adapter configured and specified for said first body (4, 5), optionally for said first part (4) of said first body (4, 5), to be removably coupled to said stopper (1), said adapter configured and specified for removably coupling said stopper (1) to an auxiliary device, preferably an auxiliary container for a sample, a duct for said release of said substance (2), a cartridge, At least one of A kit comprising:

19. A method for handling a stopper (1) according to claim 1, comprising: a first engagement step of the first portion (4) of the first body (4, 5); a second engagement step of the second portion (5) of the first body (4, 5); a first movement step including movement of the first part (4) relative to the second part (5) between the first relative position and the second relative position, the first movement step occurring after the first engagement step and the second engagement step; an engagement step of the second body (7); a second movement step subsequent to the first movement step, comprising movement of the second body (7) relative to the first body (4, 5) between the first position and the second position; Including, the second transferring step determines leakage of at least a portion of the substance (2) from the tank (6) through at least one drain hole (9); said handling method is optionally an at least partially automated handling method and is carried out by a machine for handling stoppers (1) for releasing substances (2) into containers (3) for samples, preferably into containers (3) for samples of biological or microbiological material, method.

20. the first movement step comprises a rotation of the first part (4) relative to the second part (5) between the first relative position and the second relative position, and / or the second movement step comprises a linear translation of the second body (7) relative to the first body, preferably along a direction substantially parallel to the main deployment axis (X) of the stopper (1); and said rotation occurring in a predefined rotational orientation starting from a first end stroke position of said first portion (4) of said first body (4,5) relative to said second portion (5) of said first body (4,5); said rotation ending corresponding to a second end stroke position of said first portion (4) of said first body (4,5) relative to said second portion (5) of said first body (4,5); said rotation determines a movement of a closure element (10) of said at least one discharge hole (9) of said stopper (1) from a first position, in which said closure element (10) closes said at least one discharge hole (9) and determines a closed configuration of said tank (6), to a second position, in which said closure element (10) opens said at least one discharge hole (9) and determines an open configuration of said tank (6), 20. The method of claim 19.

Images