Stackable nests for pharmaceutical containers

Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus comprising at least two improved nesting structures for containing pharmaceutical compositions. [Solution] A first structure comprising a first plurality of receptacles for housing a container for a pharmaceutical composition, a medical composition, or a cosmetic composition, wherein the first plurality of receptacles comprises side walls that at least partially enclose the interior of the receptacle, and the first plurality of receptacles are adapted and positioned such that the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure comprising a further plurality of receptacles, wherein, when the further plurality of receptacles comprises side walls that at least partially enclose the interior of the receptacle, 30% or less of the length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles lies within the further plurality of receptacles, and / or 30% or less of the length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles lies within the first plurality of receptacles.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a structure for accommodating a plurality of containers, which are preferably for accommodating pharmaceutical compositions, medical compositions and / or cosmetic compositions. The present invention further relates to an apparatus comprising at least two structures, and a method of processing at least two structures.

[0002] Background Art Containers, such as containers for pharmaceutical compositions, medical compositions and / or cosmetic compositions, are generally housed (e.g., held) and transported using a structure known as a nest. An example of such a nest is a nest commercially available from SCHOTT Pharma AG & Co. KGaA. To accommodate the containers, the nest has a plurality of receptacles. The receptacles of the nest generally have protrusions (e.g., ribs) extending into the interior of the receptacle. These protrusions are used to position the containers housed in the receptacles. When transporting a plurality of structures, the structures are stacked on top of each other such that the receptacles of the upper nest are inserted almost completely into the receptacles of the nest immediately below the upper nest. As a result, the ribs of the receptacles of the lower structure and the upper structure must be accurately dimensioned to accommodate the stacking of the structures.

[0003] Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome at least one of the drawbacks faced in the prior art.

[0004] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for accommodating containers, preferably containers for accommodating pharmaceutical compositions, medical compositions and / or cosmetic compositions.

[0005] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure enabling a reduction in the formation of structural particles when the structure is in contact with a further structure, for example, when the structure and the further structure are stacked on top of each other.

[0006] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, wherein less force is required when stacking the structure and further structures on top of each other.

[0007] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure which allows for reduced damage when the structure and further structures are stacked on top of each other.

[0008] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container such that, when the structure and the further structure are stacked on top of each other, the force required to separate the structure from the further structure is smaller.

[0009] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure enabling reduced damage when the structure is separated from the further structure when the structure and the further structure are stacked on top of each other.

[0010] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, which allows for improved force distribution when the structure and further structures are stacked on top of each other.

[0011] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, which allows for a more consistent contact surface when the structure and further structures are stacked on top of each other.

[0012] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure having higher manufacturing tolerances.

[0013] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing containers, which enables easier manufacturing of nests having desired specifications.

[0014] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure which allows for an improved projection, the projection which is for positioning the container within the structure.

[0015] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing containers, the structure which allows a number of similar structures to be stacked on top of each other.

[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure which allows for a reduction in movement of the further structure when the structure and the further structure are stacked on top of each other.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for housing a container, the structure enabling improved heat transfer between the structure and the container housed therein.

[0018] Preferred Embodiments of the Invention Contributions to satisfying at least one of the above-mentioned objectives, at least partially, are made by any embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] A first embodiment of the present invention is a first structure, a. A first set of multiple receptacles, where each of the first set of multiple receptacles is i. A container, preferably adapted and arranged to accommodate a container for holding a pharmaceutical composition, medical composition and / or cosmetic composition, ii. Having a first end and a further end opposite to the first end, iii. A side wall that at least partially encloses the interior of the receptacle, preferably an enclosing side wall. The first set of multiple receptacles, b. A first component that at least partially surrounds, preferably surrounds, a first plurality of receptacles, i. The first component has a first face and a further face opposite to the first face, ii. The first surface is oriented toward the first end of the first plurality of receptacles, iii. Further faces are oriented toward further ends of the first set of receptacles. The first component and, Equipped with, The first plurality of receptacles are adapted and positioned such that the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure which includes a further plurality of receptacles, and each of the further plurality of receptacles is i. A container, preferably adapted and arranged to accommodate a container for holding a pharmaceutical composition, medical composition and / or cosmetic composition, ii. Having a first end and a further end opposite to the first end, iii. A side wall that at least partially encloses the interior of the receptacle, preferably an enclosing side wall, I. Less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%, and more preferably less than 3% of the length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure is located within a further plurality of receptacles of a further structure, and / or II. 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, more preferably 10% or less, more preferably 5% or less, and more preferably 3% or less of the length of the side walls of the further multiple receptacles of the further structure are located in the first multiple receptacles of the first structure. At least one or all of the following apply: This is the first structure.

[0020] In one aspect of the first embodiment, all possible combinations of Features I and II are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I; II; I+II. In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first structure is adapted and arranged to be removably engaged with a further structure. In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first plurality of receptacles are adapted and arranged to form a shape fit with a further plurality of receptacles. In the first embodiment, a preferred form of contact between the first structure and the further structure includes the first structure being stacked on and / or within the further structure, and the further structure being stacked on and / or within the first structure. In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first component is disposed between a first end and a further end of the first plurality of receptacles (e.g., not flush with either the first end or the further end). In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first component is disposed perpendicular to the length of the first plurality of receptacles. In a preferred aspect of the first embodiment, the first component is planar.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, when the first plurality of receptacles are arranged in contact with a further structure, a. The length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles of the further structure, which are located within the first plurality of receptacles of the further structure, is 10 mm or less, preferably 7 mm or less, more preferably 5 mm or less, and even more preferably 3 mm or less. a. The length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles of the further structure, which are located within the first plurality of receptacles of the further structure, is 10 mm or less, preferably 7 mm or less, more preferably 5 mm or less, and even more preferably 3 mm or less. are adapted and arranged such that at least one or all of them are applied.

[0022] This preferred embodiment is the second embodiment of the present invention, preferably depending on the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] In one aspect of the second embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b are preferred aspects of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a; b; a + b.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, when the first plurality of receptacles are arranged in contact with a further structure, I. 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, more preferably 10% or less of the outer surface of the side wall of the receptacle among the first plurality of receptacles is in contact with the inner surface of the side wall of the receptacle among the further plurality of receptacles, and / or, II. 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, more preferably 10% or less of the outer surface of the side wall of the receptacle among the further plurality of receptacles is in contact with the inner surface of the side wall of the receptacle among the first plurality of receptacles, is adapted and arranged such that at least one or all of them are applied, The inner surface of the side wall of the receptacle faces the inside of the receptacle, and the outer surface of the side wall of the receptacle is on the opposite side of the inner surface of the side wall.

[0025] This preferred embodiment is the third embodiment of the present invention, preferably depending on any of the first to second embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] In one aspect of the third embodiment, all possible combinations of features I and II are preferred aspects of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I; II; I + II.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the first structure includes at least one raised section that extends above the first surface of the first component.

[0028] This preferred embodiment is the fourth embodiment of the present invention, preferably depending on any of the first to third embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, each of the first plurality of receptacles comprises at least one raised section extending above the first face of the first component, A. At least one raised section forms at least partially the side wall of each receptacle, preferably at least partially the first end of each receptacle. B. The first surface of the first component faces the first end of each receptacle, C. The first face of the first component faces away from the further ends of each receptacle.

[0030] This preferred embodiment is a fifth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the fifth embodiment, at least a portion of the first ends of the first plurality of receptacles is above the first component, and at least a portion of the further ends of the first plurality of receptacles is below the first component.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the height of the raised section is xL, where L is the average length of the receptacle, and x is in the range of 0.005 to 0.5, preferably 0.03 to 0.35, more preferably 0.05 to 0.25, and even more preferably 0.1 to 0.2.

[0033] This preferred embodiment is a sixth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the fourth or fifth embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the height of the raised section is in the range of 0.1 to 8 mm, preferably 0.5 to 6 mm, more preferably 1 to 4.5 mm, and even more preferably 2 to 3.5 mm.

[0035] This preferred embodiment is a seventh embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the fourth to sixth embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, at least one raised section extends around at least 15%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50%, and even more preferably at least 60% of the circumference of each receptacle.

[0037] This preferred embodiment is an eighth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the fourth to seventh embodiments of the present invention.

[0038] The eighth embodiment should be understood to mean that each of the first plurality of receptacles includes at least one raised section extending around at least 15%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50%, and even more preferably at least 60% of the circumference of the respective receptacle. In the eighth embodiment, if one of the first plurality of receptacles includes multiple raised sections, this should be understood to mean that, preferably, the multiple raised sections together extend around at least 15%, preferably at least 25%, more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50%, and even more preferably at least 60% of the circumference of the respective receptacle (for example, each raised section does not extend around 15% of the circumference).

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, a. At least one raised section has an uneven height. b. At least one raised section is planar. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0040] This preferred embodiment is a ninth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the fourth to eighth embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] In one aspect of the ninth embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the first end of each of the first plurality of receptacles is provided with at least one recess, preferably at least two recesses, and more preferably at least three recesses.

[0043] This preferred embodiment is a tenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the first to ninth embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the tenth embodiment, at least one recess is located in at least one raised section.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, a. The depth of at least one recess at the first end of the first plurality of receptacles is in the range of >0 to 35 mm, preferably 0.5 to 25 mm, more preferably 1 to 15 mm, and even more preferably 3 to 7 mm. b. The width of at least one recess at the first end of the first plurality of receptacles is in the range of >0 to 35 mm, preferably 0.5 to 30 mm, more preferably 1 to 25 mm, and even more preferably 5 to 20 mm. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0046] This preferred embodiment is an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] In one aspect of the eleventh embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b. In a preferred embodiment of feature a of the eleventh embodiment, at least one recess has a depth in the range of >0 to 18 mm, preferably 0.5 to 15 mm, more preferably 1 to 12 mm, and even more preferably 5 to 10 mm.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the further end of each receptacle among the first plurality of receptacles includes at least one recess, preferably at least two recesses, and more preferably at least three recesses.

[0049] This preferred embodiment is a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the first to eleventh embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of the twelfth embodiment, at least one recess is fitted and positioned to removably engage with at least one raised section of a further structure, preferably at least one raised section of the first end of one of a further plurality of receptacles of the further structure.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, a. The depth of at least one recess at the further end of the first plurality of receptacles is in the range of 0.1 to 8 mm, preferably 0.5 to 6 mm, more preferably 1 to 4.5 mm, and even more preferably 2 to 3.5 mm. b. The width of at least one recess at the further end of the first plurality of receptacles is in the range of 0.5 to 12 mm, preferably 1 to 10 mm, more preferably 2 to 9 mm, and even more preferably 3 to 8 mm. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0052] This preferred embodiment is a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] In one aspect of the thirteenth embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the first structure includes at least one projection extending above the first surface of the first component.

[0055] This preferred embodiment is a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the first to thirteenth embodiments of the present invention.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the 14th embodiment, at least one projection is positioned perpendicular to the first component.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, a. At least one projection has a height in the range of 0.1 to 8 mm, preferably 0.5 to 6 mm, more preferably 1 to 4.5 mm, and even more preferably 2 to 3.5 mm. b. At least one projection has a maximum vertical dimension in the range of 0.5 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 8 mm, and more preferably 2 to 6 mm, measured perpendicular to the height of at least one projection. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0058] This preferred embodiment is a 15th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the 14th embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] In one aspect of the 15th embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, at least one projection is fitted and positioned to removably engage with at least one recess in the further structure when the first structure is in contact with the further structure.

[0061] This preferred embodiment is a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the fourteenth to fifteenth embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the 16th embodiment, at least one recess forms part of the side wall of a receptacle of a further structure. In this embodiment, the receptacle may be any receptacle of the further structure (i.e., not necessarily one of a plurality of further receptacles).

[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the first structure is adapted and positioned such that, when the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure, the movement of the first structure and the further structure relative to each other is at least partially constrained in at least one direction, preferably at least one direction parallel to the first component.

[0064] This preferred embodiment is a 17th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 1st to 16th embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment of the 17th embodiment, the movement includes at least one or all of translational movement, rotational movement, inclination, or a combination of at least two of these. In a preferred embodiment of the 17th embodiment, at least one projection (for example, of any of the 14th to 16th embodiments of the present invention) is adapted and positioned to restrict the movement of the first structure and the further structures relative to each other.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the angle α between the normal of the first component and the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles is in the range of 0° to 10°, preferably 0.1° to 7.5°, and more preferably 0.3° to 5°.

[0067] This preferred embodiment is an 18th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 1st to 17th embodiments of the present invention.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the first structure further comprises a second plurality of receptacles, A. Each of the second set of receptacles is: i. A container, preferably fitted and arranged to house a container for holding a pharmaceutical composition, a medical composition and / or a cosmetic composition, ii. Having a first end and a further end opposite to the first end, iii. A side wall that at least partially encloses the interior of the receptacle, preferably an enclosing side wall, B. The first component surrounds, at least partially, preferably, the second plurality of receptacles. C. At least one property differs between the receptacle among the first set of receptacles and the receptacle among the second set of receptacles.

[0069] This preferred embodiment is a 19th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 1st to 18th embodiments of the present invention.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, at least one differentiating characteristic between the first plurality of receptacles and the second plurality of receptacles includes at least one or all of the average length, geometric shape, and depth of at least one recess at the first end.

[0071] This preferred embodiment is a 20th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on the 19th embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] In the 20th embodiment, an example of the geometric shape is as follows: The diameters of both the first and second plurality of receptacles decrease from the first end to the further end, and the decrease differs between the first plurality of receptacles and the second plurality of receptacles, and the cross-sectional shape of the first plurality of receptacles differs from the cross-sectional shape of the second plurality of receptacles.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, a. The number of receptacles among the first set of receptacles is less than the total number of receptacles in the first structure. b. The number of receptacles among the first set of receptacles is equal to the total number of receptacles in the first structure. One of these will apply.

[0074] This preferred embodiment is a 21st embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 1st to 20th embodiments of the present invention.

[0075] In the 21st embodiment, the total number of receptacles includes all receptacles of the first structure (e.g., both first and second multiple receptacles) that are adapted and arranged to accommodate the container.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, each of the first plurality of receptacles comprises at least one projection extending into the interior of the receptacle, preferably the average length of the projection being less than the average length of the receptacles among the first plurality of receptacles.

[0077] This preferred embodiment is a 22nd embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 1st to 21st embodiments of the present invention.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, each of the first plurality of receptacles is provided with at least one projection extending into the interior of the receptacle, I. At least one projection has at least one vertex formed by at least two planes of the at least one projection, II. The distance between the first end of the receptacle and at least one vertex is greater than zero, and this distance is measured parallel to the length of the receptacle.

[0079] This preferred embodiment is a 23rd embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 1st to 22nd embodiments of the present invention.

[0080] In preferred embodiments of the present invention, preferred embodiments and preferred embodiments of the first structure described in the first to twenty-third embodiments are also preferred embodiments and preferred embodiments of further structures with necessary modifications. For example, preferred embodiments and preferred embodiments of the first plurality of receptacles are also preferred embodiments and preferred embodiments of further plurality of receptacles of further structures with necessary modifications.

[0081] A 24th embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus comprising a first structure A according to the present invention and a further structure B preferably configured in the same manner as the first structure A. a. The first structure A is, i. A first set of multiple receptacles A, wherein one of the first set of multiple receptacles A is receptacle A. A. Having a first end A and a further end A, B. The receptacle A comprises side walls A that at least partially enclose the interior A, preferably enclosing the interior A. The first set of multiple receptacles A, ii. A first component A that at least partially surrounds, preferably surrounds, a first plurality of receptacles A, Equipped with, b. Further structure B is, i. A further plurality of receptacles B, wherein one of the further plurality of receptacles B is A. Having a first end B and a further end B, B. The receptacle B comprises, at least partially, surrounding, side walls B, Further multiple receptacles B, ii. A further component B that at least partially surrounds, preferably surrounds, a further receptacle B, Equipped with, Structure B is, I. Less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, and more preferably less than 10% of the length of side wall A is located within a further number of receptacles B, and / or II. Less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, and more preferably less than 10% of the length of the side wall B is located within the first plurality of receptacles A. It is positioned in contact with structure A such that at least one or all of the following apply.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment of the 24th embodiment, the first structure A is preferably the first structure according to any of the first to 23rd embodiments of the invention. In a preferred embodiment of the 24th embodiment, the further structure B is preferably configured in the same way as the first structure according to the present invention, more preferably as the first structure according to any of the first to 23rd embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment of the 24th embodiment, all possible combinations of features I and II are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II. In a preferred embodiment of the 24th embodiment, the further end A is in contact with at least one section of the side wall B, preferably the first end B. In a preferred embodiment of the 24th embodiment, the further end B is in contact with at least one section of the side wall A, preferably the first end A. In a preferred embodiment of the 24th embodiment, the first structure A and the further structure B are in contact such that the first structure A and the further structure B are detachably engaged. In the 24th embodiment, a preferred form of contact between the first structure A and the further structure B includes the first structure A being stacked on and / or inside the further structure B, and the further structure B being stacked on and / or inside the first structure A. In the 24th embodiment, the first structure A may comprise a first plurality of receptacles A and a second plurality of receptacles. In the 24th embodiment, the further structure B may comprise a further plurality of receptacles B and a third plurality of receptacles.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment of the device, a. 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less of the outer surface of side wall A is in contact with the inner surface of side wall B, and / or b. 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less of the outer surface of side wall B is in contact with the inner surface of side wall A. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0084] This preferred embodiment is a 25th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on a 24th embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] In one aspect of the 25th embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment of the device, a. Each receptacle B comprises at least one raised section extending above the first face of a further component B, preferably the further end A comprises at least one recess, the raised section being received within the recess, and / or b. Each receptacle A comprises at least one raised section extending above the first surface of the first component A, preferably a further end B comprising at least one recess, the raised section being received within the recess. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0087] This preferred embodiment is a 26th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 24th to 25th embodiments of the present invention.

[0088] In one aspect of the 26th embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b. In one aspect of the 26th embodiment, a further component B has a first face and a further face opposite to the first face, wherein preferably the first face is oriented toward the first end B, and preferably the further face is oriented toward the further end B.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment of the device, less than 10%, preferably less than 5%, and more preferably less than 3% of the area of ​​the first component A is in contact with the further component B.

[0090] This preferred embodiment is a 27th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 24th to 26th embodiments of the present invention.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment of the apparatus, the movement of the first structure A and the further structure B relative to each other is at least partially constrained in at least one direction, preferably at least one direction parallel to the first component A.

[0092] This preferred embodiment is a 28th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 24th to 27th embodiments of the present invention.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment of the 28th embodiment, the movement includes at least one or all of translational movement, rotational movement, tilting, or a combination of at least two of these.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment of the device, a. A further number of receptacles B each have a projection B extending into the interior B of the receptacle B, and less than 10%, preferably less than 7%, and more preferably less than 5% of the further end A is in contact with the projection B, and / or b. The first plurality of receptacles A are provided with protrusions A extending into the interior A of the receptacle A, and less than 10%, preferably less than 7%, and even more preferably less than 5% of the further ends B are in contact with the protrusions A. At least one or all of the following apply.

[0095] This preferred embodiment is a 29th embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 24th to 28th embodiments of the present invention.

[0096] In one aspect of the 29th embodiment, all possible combinations of features a and b are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;a+b. In the 29th embodiment, "~% of further ends" should be understood as the number of further ends. For example, if the first structure has 20 receptacles A constituting a first plurality of receptacles A, and 10% of the further ends A are in contact with the projection B, this should be understood as meaning that the further ends A of two receptacles A are in contact with the projection B.

[0097] A 30th embodiment of the present invention is a method for processing at least two structures, a. A step of providing a first structure A according to the present invention and a further structure B preferably configured in the same manner as the first structure A, i. The first structure A includes a first plurality of receptacles A and a first component A that at least partially surrounds, preferably surrounds, the first plurality of receptacles A, wherein the receptacle A among the first plurality of receptacles A is A. Having a first end A and a further end A, B. The container A comprises side walls A that at least partially enclose the interior A, preferably enclosing the interior A, ii. Further structure B comprises a further plurality of receptacles B and a further constituent B that at least partially surrounds, preferably surrounds, the further plurality of receptacles B, wherein the receptacle B among the further plurality of receptacles B is A. Having a first end B and a further end B, B. The container B comprises side walls B that at least partially enclose the interior B, preferably enclosing the container B. Steps and b. The first structure A, I. Less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, and more preferably less than 10% of the length of the side wall A is located within a further plurality of receptacles B, and / or II. 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less of the length of the side wall B is located within the first plurality of receptacles A. The steps include positioning it so as to come into contact with a further structure B, This method includes [something].

[0098] In a preferred embodiment of the 30th embodiment, the first structure A is preferably the first structure according to any of the first to 23rd embodiments of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment of the 30th embodiment, the further structure B is preferably configured in the same way as the first structure according to the present invention, more preferably as the first structure according to any of the first to 23rd embodiments of the present invention. In one aspect of the 30th embodiment, all possible combinations of features I and II are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II. In a preferred embodiment of the 30th embodiment, the further end A is positioned in contact with at least one section of the side wall B, preferably with the first end B. In a preferred embodiment of the 30th embodiment, the further end B is positioned in contact with at least one section of the side wall A, preferably with the first end A. In a preferred embodiment of the 30th embodiment, the first structure A and the further structure B are positioned in contact with each other to obtain an apparatus according to any of the 24th to 29th embodiments of the present invention.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment of a method for processing at least two structures, the processing includes at least one or all of stacking, storage, and transport.

[0100] This preferred embodiment is a 31st embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on a 30th embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment of a method for processing at least two structures, the method is: a. A step of separating the first structure A and the first structure B, b. The step of inserting multiple containers into the first multiple receptacles A, c. Preferably, the step of lowering the temperature of the first structure A and the container housed therein to more preferably below 0°C, It also includes.

[0102] This preferred embodiment is a 32nd embodiment of the present invention, which preferably depends on any of the 30th to 31st embodiments of the present invention.

[0103] A 33rd embodiment of the present invention is the use of the first structure according to the present invention, preferably the first structure according to any of the 1st to 23rd embodiments of the present invention. a. When the first structure is in contact with a further structure, reduce the force required to remove the first structure and the further structure from each other. b. Reducing contact between the receptacle of the first structure and a projection of the further structure when the first structure and the further structure are in contact, wherein the projection extends into the interior of the receptacle of the further structure, and / or reducing contact between the receptacle of the further structure and a projection of the first structure, wherein the projection extends into the interior of the receptacle of the first structure, c. When the first structure is in contact with a further structure, reduce the formation of particles on the first structure. d. When the first structure and the further structure are in contact, reduce contact between the side wall of the first structure and the further structure, and / or reduce contact between the side wall of the further structure and the first structure. e. When the first structure is in contact with the further structure, reduce the movement of the first structure relative to the further structure. It is a use for at least one or all of the following.

[0104] In one aspect of the 33rd embodiment, all possible combinations of features a to e are preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, a;b;c;d;e;a+b;a+c;a+d;a+e;b+c;b+d;b+e;c+d;c+e;d+e;a+b+c;a+b+d;a+b+e;a+c+d;a+c+e;a+d+e;b+c+d;b+c+e;c+d+e;a+b+c+d;a+b+c+e;a+b+c+e;b+c+d+e;a+b+c+d+e. In a preferred embodiment of the 33rd embodiment, reducing the force of feature a reduces warping. In a preferred embodiment of the 33rd embodiment, examples of horizontal movement of feature e include translational and rotational movement.

[0105] A 34th embodiment of the present invention is the use of a first structure according to the present invention, preferably a first structure according to any of the first to 23rd embodiments of the present invention, for housing at least one container, the at least one container for housing a pharmaceutical composition, a medical composition and / or a cosmetic composition.

[0106] Detailed description of the invention For example, a feature described as preferred in one category of the present invention, such as the first structure, is also preferred in one embodiment of another category of the present invention, such as the use of the first structure according to the present invention.

[0107] Throughout this specification, a disclosure of a range should preferably be understood to include both endpoints of that range. Furthermore, each disclosure of a range in this document should preferably be understood to also disclose a preferred sub-range from which one endpoint is excluded or both endpoints are excluded. For example, a disclosure of a range from X1 to X2 should be understood to disclose a range that includes both endpoints X1 and X2. It also discloses ranges that include endpoint X1 but not endpoint X2, ranges that do not include endpoint X1 but include endpoint X2, and ranges that do not include either endpoint X1 or X2.

[0108] Some preferred embodiments and preferred forms have various combinations of features as substitutes. When various combinations are disclosed, these combinations are separated by semicolons (";"). For example, the list of features for a preferred embodiment "a;a+b;a+c+d" discloses a preferred embodiment including feature "a", a preferred embodiment including features "a" and "b", and a preferred embodiment including features "a", "c", and "d".

[0109] structure Examples of structures include the first structure and further structures. The structures preferably include polymers. Examples of preferred polymers include polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs), and cyclic olefin polymers (COPs). Here, polypropylene is particularly preferred for the structure.

[0110] The structure can be obtained using deep drawing, molding, preferably injection molding, and / or 3D printing. The structure is preferably manufactured as a single piece. A structure having a receptacle for housing a container, the container for housing a pharmaceutical composition, a medical composition, and / or a cosmetic composition, is often referred to as a “nest.” Here, “nest” should preferably be understood as used in the pharmaceutical industry.

[0111] The structure preferably comprises a total of 5 to 250, more preferably 10 to 200, even more preferably 20 to 190, even more preferably 40 to 180, even more preferably 60 to 180, even more preferably 80 to 180, and even more preferably 100 to 160 receptacles. Here, the total number refers to all receptacles of the first structure that are adapted and arranged to accommodate a container (for example, comprising a first plurality of receptacles and any other plurality of receptacles, if present).

[0112] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first plurality of receptacles have a range of 2 to 200, more preferably 4 to 180, and even more preferably 6 to 160 receptacles.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the structure is adapted and arranged to be thermally stable down to a temperature of at least -80°C, more preferably at least -70°C, and even more preferably at least -50°C. Here, thermal stability should be understood to preferably mean that the structure is not damaged when exposed to temperatures below 0°C.

[0114] Further structures configured in the same manner as the first structure should preferably be understood to mean that the further structures include the same features as defined for the first structure. For example, further structures configured in the same manner as the first structure of a second embodiment of the present invention should preferably be understood to mean that the further structures have the same features as the first structure, as defined in the first and second embodiments of the present invention. Further structures configured in the same manner as the first structure should also preferably be understood to mean at least one, preferably all, of the following: the first components of the first structure are similar to the further components of the further structure; the first plurality of receptacles are similar to the further plurality of receptacles; the first structure and the further structure are considered similar to those skilled in the art, for example, that the first structure and the further structure do not have features that would allow the first structure to be distinguished from the further structure.

[0115] Receptacle A preferred receptacle is elongated. A preferred receptacle has a first end and a further end opposite the first end. The first end of the receptacle preferably has a first opening for receiving a container. In other words, the receptacle is preferably fitted and positioned so that a container is inserted into and / or removed from each receptacle at the first end. The further end of the receptacle may be closed or may have a further opening. The further opening at the further end of the receptacle is preferably fitted and positioned so as to allow a portion of the container to extend out of the receptacle when the container is housed in the receptacle.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, two or more receptacles of a structure (e.g., a first structure) are fitted and arranged such that sections of their sidewalls are shared among the receptacles. For example, a section of the sidewall of a first receptacle forms part of the sidewall of a further receptacle.

[0117] Preferably, but not required, one of the first plurality of receptacles has at least one raised section. The first structure may have only the first plurality of receptacles. Alternatively, the first structure may have both the first and second plurality of receptacles. Alternatively, the first structure may have the first, second, and other plurality of receptacles.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment A1 of the present invention, the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure when the first structure is arranged in contact with a further structure. I. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, 30% or less of the length of the side walls, are located within the receptacle of the further structure. II. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, 30% or less of the length of the side walls, are located within the receptacle of the further structure. It is adapted and arranged so that at least one or all of the following apply.

[0119] In one aspect of Embodiment A1, all possible combinations of features I and II constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment A2 of the present invention, the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure when the first structure is arranged in contact with a further structure. I. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, 20% or less of the length of the side walls, are located within the receptacle of the further structure. II. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, 20% or less of the length of the side walls, are located within the receptacle of the further structure. It is adapted and arranged so that at least one or all of the following apply.

[0121] In one aspect of Embodiment A2, all possible combinations of features I and II constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment A3 of the present invention, the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure when the first structure is arranged in contact with a further structure. I. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, is located within the receptacle of the further structure. II. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, 10% or less of the length of the side walls, are located within the receptacle of the further structure. It is adapted and arranged so that at least one or all of the following apply.

[0123] In one aspect of Embodiment A3, all possible combinations of features I and II constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II.

[0124] In a preferred embodiment A4 of the present invention, the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure when the first structure is arranged in contact with a further structure. I. At least 5% or less of the length of the side walls of at least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the receptacle of the first structure is located within the receptacle of the further structure. II. At least 5% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90%, is located within the receptacle of the further structure. It is adapted and arranged so that at least one or all of the following apply.

[0125] In one aspect of Embodiment A4, all possible combinations of features I and II constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II.

[0126] In a preferred embodiment A5 of the present invention, the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure when the first structure is arranged in contact with a further structure. I. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure is located within the receptacle of the further structure. II. At least 50%, more preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the side walls of the receptacle of the first structure is located within the receptacle of the further structure. It is adapted and arranged so that at least one or all of the following apply.

[0127] In one aspect of Embodiment A5, all possible combinations of features I and II constitute preferred embodiments of the embodiment. These combinations are, for example, I;II;I+II.

[0128] In preferred embodiments A1 to A5, when "receptacle of the first structure" is referred to, it should be understood to include all receptacles of the first structure (for example, both the first and second receptacles if the first structure includes a first and second plurality of receptacles). In preferred embodiments A1 to A5, when "receptacle of a further structure" is referred to, it should be understood to include all receptacles of the further structure (for example, both the further and third receptacles if the further structure includes a further plurality of receptacles and a third plurality of receptacles).

[0129] If it is disclosed that X% and / or Y mm of the length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure lies within a further plurality of receptacles of the further structure, it should be understood that this feature applies individually to each of the receptacles among the first plurality of receptacles. Similarly, if it is disclosed that X% and / or Y mm of the length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles of the further structure lies within the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure, it should be understood that this feature applies individually to each of the receptacles among the further plurality of receptacles.

[0130] Elevated section The raised section preferably forms at least partially, more preferably partially, part of the side wall of the receptacle. The raised section may also partially form the side walls of two or more receptacles.

[0131] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first structure comprises a first plurality of receptacles and a second plurality of receptacles, wherein the first end of each receptacle of both the first and second plurality of receptacles is provided with at least a recess, and the first depth of the recess of the first plurality of receptacles is different from the second depth of the recess of the second plurality of receptacles. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the first depth is smaller than the second depth. In this embodiment, the first depth is preferably in the range of >0 to 18 mm, more preferably 0.5 to 15 mm, even more preferably 1 to 12 mm, and still more preferably 5 to 10 mm. In this embodiment, the second depth is preferably in the range of >0 to 35 mm, more preferably 0.5 to 30 mm, even more preferably 1 to 25 mm, and still more preferably 5 to 20 mm.

[0132] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the first plurality of receptacles includes at least one raised section extending around at least X% of the circumference of the respective receptacle. If one of the first plurality of receptacles includes multiple raised sections, this should preferably be understood to mean that the multiple raised sections collectively extend around at least X% of the circumference of the respective receptacle (for example, each raised section does not individually extend around X% of the circumference).

[0133] If it is disclosed that a raised section has a height of xL and / or a height in the range of Z1 to Z2 mm, this should be understood to mean that each of the raised sections individually has a height of xL and / or a height in the range of Z1 to Z2 mm.

[0134] protrusion The protrusions are preferably adapted and positioned to position the container within the receptacle. For example, the protrusions are adapted and positioned to position the container while inserting it into the receptacle, and / or while removing it from the receptacle, and / or when the container is housed in the receptacle.

[0135] The protrusions preferably comprise, and more preferably are made from, at least one thermoplastic material. The protrusions may have any geometric shape. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, one or more protrusions of the receptacle are formed as ribs. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protrusions are formed integrally with the sidewall of the receptacle. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protrusions extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sidewall of the receptacle. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protrusions and the sidewall on which the protrusions are located are made from the same material. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protrusions and the sidewall on which the protrusions are located are made from different materials.

[0136] The vertex of a projection is formed by at least two planes of the projection. Here, the vertex should be understood broadly. For example, the vertex does not have to be formed as a sharp edge, but may be rounded.

[0137] protrusion The projection preferably comprises, and more preferably is made of, at least one thermoplastic material. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection is formed integrally with the structure. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection and the structure from which the projection extends are made from the same material. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection and the structure from which the projection extends are made from different materials.

[0138] The projection can have any geometric shape. Examples of preferred shapes include a cone, triangle, rectangle, cylinder, cube, hemisphere, projection formed as a plane, and at least two combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection is formed as a hemisphere. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection is not plane. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection does not include edges, corners, or both.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection has a height greater than the maximum vertical dimension of the projection. The maximum vertical dimension is measured perpendicular to the height of the projection. The maximum vertical dimension may be, for example, the diameter (for example, if the projection is in the form of a hemisphere or cylinder) or the width (for example, if the projection is in the form of a cube).

[0140] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the projection comprises at least one surface positioned at a certain angle with respect to the first surface of the first component, the angle being not equal to 90°.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment of the first structure, the first structure comprises at least one recess fitted and positioned to removably engage with at least one projection of a further structure. In this embodiment, the at least one recess preferably forms part of the side wall of a receptacle of the first structure. In this aspect, the receptacle may be any receptacle of the first structure (i.e., not necessarily one of the first plurality of receptacles).

[0142] The projections and recesses, which are fitted and positioned to engage in a removable manner, should preferably be understood to mean that the projections and recesses can be engaged and disengaged multiple times, preferably without damaging the projections, recesses, or both.

[0143] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a projection is positioned between at least two receptacles. In this aspect, the at least two receptacles may be any two receptacles of the first structure (i.e., not necessarily two of the first plurality of receptacles).

[0144] Upward In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first structure comprises at least one raised section extending above the first face of the first component. The raised section extending above the first face of the first component should be understood to mean that the first face is oriented toward the raised section and further faces are oriented away from the raised section. The raised section extending above the first face of the first component should also be understood to mean, preferably, that at least one point on the raised section is positioned at a distance from the first face of the first component. The raised section extending above the first face of the first component should also be understood to mean, preferably, that when the first structure is positioned on a horizontal plane such that further faces of the first component face a horizontal plane, at least one point on the raised section is further from the horizontal plane than the first face.

[0145] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first structure has at least one projection extending above the first face of the first component. The projection extending above the first face of the first component should be understood to mean that the first face is oriented toward the projection, while further faces are oriented away from the projection. The projection extending above the first face of the first component should also be understood to mean that, preferably, at least one point on the projection is positioned at a distance from the first face of the first component. The projection extending above the first face of the first component should also be understood to mean that, preferably, when the first structure is positioned on a horizontal plane such that further faces of the first component face a horizontal plane, at least one point on the projection is further from the horizontal plane than the first face.

[0146] container The containers referred to herein include container walls that at least partially enclose the internal volume of the container. The containers referred to herein are designed to contain a composition such that the inside of the container walls (i.e., the side of the container wall facing the internal volume) and / or a coating layer (e.g., a lubricating layer) on the inside of the container walls can come into direct contact with the composition. Preferred containers are suitable for use in containing pharmaceutical compositions, medical compositions, and / or cosmetic compositions.

[0147] The first end of the container preferably includes a first orifice that allows the composition to be filled into the internal volume of the container. Preferably, the first orifice also allows the composition to be released from the internal volume.

[0148] The container may have any size or shape that a person skilled in the art would consider appropriate in the context of the present invention. A preferred container has at least one section that is cylindrical. A preferred container is elongated.

[0149] A preferred container, more preferably a container wall, comprises, and more preferably consists of, at least one glass, at least one polymer, or a combination thereof. The glass may be any type of glass and may have any composition that a person skilled in the art would consider suitable in the context of the present invention. Preferably, the glass is suitable for pharmaceutical compositions and / or medical compositions. Preferred glass is European Pharmacopoeia,7 th It is a Type I glass, as defined in section 3.2.1 of the 2011 edition. Preferred glass examples include borosilicate glass, fused silica, and combinations thereof. Particularly preferred glass is borosilicate glass. Preferred polymer examples include polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs), and cyclic olefin polymers (COPs). Here, cyclic olefin copolymers (COCs) and cyclic olefin polymers (COPs) are particularly preferred.

[0150] Examples of preferred containers include cartridges, vials, ampoules, bottles, and syringes.

[0151] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the container, more preferably the container wall, and even more preferably the surface of the container wall facing the internal volume of the container, is free from coating. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the container, more preferably the container wall, and even more preferably the surface of the container wall facing the internal volume of the container, comprises at least one coating layer. Here, the coating layer should preferably be understood as a layer applied by any method known to those skilled in the pharmaceutical industry. Preferred coating layers are obtained by plasma coating methods. Examples of plasma coating methods include plasma impulse chemical deposition and plasma-enhanced chemical deposition. Preferred coating layers comprise silane or silicone.

[0152] Pharmaceutical composition, pharmaceutical composition and cosmetic composition In the context of the present invention, any pharmaceutical composition, any medical composition, and any cosmetic composition that a person skilled in the art would consider suitable are considered. A pharmaceutical composition is a composition comprising at least one pharmaceutically active ingredient. A preferred pharmaceutically active ingredient is a vaccine. A cosmetic composition is a composition comprising at least one cosmetically active ingredient. Preferred cosmetic active ingredients are hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin. Pharmaceutical compositions and / or cosmetic compositions may be fluids, solids, or both, and in this specification, fluid compositions are particularly preferred. Preferred solid compositions are granules such as powders, a multitude of tablets, or a multitude of capsules. Further preferred pharmaceutical compositions, medical compositions, and / or cosmetic compositions are parenteral preparations, i.e., compositions intended to be administered via parenteral routes, which may be any route other than enteral. Parenteral administration can be carried out by injection, for example, using a needle (usually a subcutaneous injection needle) and syringe, or by insertion of an indwelling catheter.

[0153] List of drawings The drawings are useful for illustrating the invention and should not be considered limiting. The drawings are not drawn to scale. Expressions such as “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” “above,” and “below” should be understood by referring to and in the context of the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0154] [Figure 1A] This is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of the first structure according to the present invention, viewed from the side. [Figure 1B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first structure according to the present invention, positioned in contact with a further structure. [Figure 1C] This is an alternative embodiment of the first structure shown in Figure 1A. [Figure 1D] This is an alternative embodiment of the first structure shown in Figure 1A. [Figure 2A] This is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the first structure according to the present invention, and is shown in isometric view. [Figure 2B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the first structure. [Figure 3A] This is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the first structure according to the present invention, and is shown in isometric view. [Figure 3B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the first structure. [Figure 4A] This is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the first structure according to the present invention, viewed from above. [Figure 4B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the third embodiment of the first structure. [Figure 5A] This is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of the first structure according to the present invention, showing a cutout of the first structure. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section. [Figure 6A] This is a schematic diagram showing the apparatus of the first set of receptacles in the first structure. [Figure 6B] This is a schematic diagram showing the apparatus of the first set of receptacles in the first structure. [Figure 6C]This is a schematic diagram showing the apparatus of the first set of receptacles in the first structure. [Figure 6D] This is a schematic diagram showing the apparatus of the first set of receptacles in the first structure. [Figure 7A] This is a schematic diagram showing how various parameters are defined. [Figure 7B] This is a schematic diagram showing how various parameters are defined. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing how the various parameters of the protrusion are defined. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram showing how the dimensions of a protruding part are measured. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a method for processing at least two structures.

[0155] Description of the drawing Figure 1A Figure 1A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the first structure 100 according to the present invention, viewed from the side. The first structure 100 has a first plurality of receptacles, such as receptacles 101A and 101B. The first structure 100 also has a second plurality of receptacles (e.g., receptacles 102A and 102B) (the difference between the first plurality of receptacles and the second plurality of receptacles is described below). The first structure according to the present invention may have only the first plurality of receptacles. Alternatively, the first structure according to the present invention may have both the first plurality of receptacles and the second plurality of receptacles. Alternatively, the first structure according to the present invention may have the first plurality of receptacles, the second plurality of receptacles, and one or more further plurality of receptacles.

[0156] As shown for receptacle 101A, each receptacle of the first structure 100 has a side wall 103 surrounding an interior 104. Each receptacle also has a first end 105 and a further end 106. A container is inserted into and removed from the first structure 100 via the first end 105. Figure 1A shows the further end 106 closed, but this is not a requirement; that is, the further end 106 may also be open. The side wall of the receptacle has an inner surface 107 facing the interior 104 and an outer surface 108 opposite the inner surface 107.

[0157] The first structure 100 further comprises a first component 109 surrounding a first plurality of receptacles and a second plurality of receptacles. The first component 109 has a first face 110 and a further face 111. The first face 110 faces a first end (e.g., 105) of a receptacle, while facing away from the further end (e.g., 106) of a receptacle. The first component 109 is positioned between the first end (e.g., 105) and the further end (e.g., 106) of the first plurality of receptacles (e.g., 101A).

[0158] As shown with respect to receptacles 101A and 101B, each of the first plurality of receptacles has at least one raised section (112A and 112B, respectively) extending above the first face 110 of the first component 109. The raised sections 112A and 112B form part of the sidewalls of receptacles 101A and 101B, respectively, and also form part of the first end of the receptacle. In other words, as shown with respect to receptacle 101A, the first end 105 of receptacle 101A is above the first face 110. This is in contrast to receptacles 102A and 102B, which have first ends 113A and 113B that are coplanar with the first face 110 of the first component 109. In other words, receptacles 101A and 101B (of the first set of receptacles) are distinguished from receptacles 102A and 102B (of the second set of receptacles) by the presence of raised sections (e.g., 112A and 112B).

[0159] Figure 1B Figure 1B shows a schematic cross-section of the first structure 100 according to the present invention, positioned in contact with a further structure 117. The cross-section is viewed from the side.

[0160] The first structure 100 in Figure 1B is the same as the first structure 100 shown in Figure 1A. Furthermore, the further structure 117 is configured in the same way as the first structure 100. In other words, the first structure 100 and the further structure 117 are identical. For example, the first structure 100 has a first set of receptacles (receptacle 101, etc.), and the further structure 117 has a further set of receptacles (receptacle 118, etc.). The first and further sets of receptacles are identical. The first structure 100 also has a second set of receptacles (receptacle 102, etc.), and the further structure has a third set of receptacles (receptacle 119, etc.). The second and third sets of receptacles are identical. Furthermore, similar to the first component 109 of the first structure 100, the further structure 117 has a further component 120 surrounding the receptacle of the further structure 117. The first component 109 and the further component 120 are identical.

[0161] As shown in Figure 1B, the additional structure 117 is positioned in contact with the first structure 100. More specifically, the additional structure 117 is stacked on top of the first structure 100. As a result of the raised section 112, the receptacles of the additional structure 117 (both the additional and third receptacles) do not occupy (are not inserted into) the receptacles of the first structure 100. In other words, less than 30% of the length of the sidewalls 121 of the additional receptacles of the additional structure 117 occupies the first receptacles of the first structure 100.

[0162] Although the first structure 100 and the further structure 117 in Figure 1B are identical, this is not a requirement. Any first structure that allows the stacking of the first structure and the further structures such that, for example, 30% or less of the length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles lies within the further plurality of receptacles of the further structure (and / or 30% or less of the length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles lies within the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure) is according to the present invention.

[0163] It should be noted that it is not a requirement that the first structure has a raised section. Rather, alternative solutions may be possible that, when the first structure is in contact with a further structure, limit the length of the side walls of the first multiple receptacles (of the first structure) located within further multiple receptacles (of the further structure) (and / or limit the length of the side walls of further multiple receptacles located within the first multiple receptacles).

[0164] Figures 1C and 1D Figures 1C and 1D show alternative embodiments of the first structure 100 shown in Figure 1A. As shown in Figure 1C, the receptacles of the first structure 100 can share a side wall. For example, receptacles 101A and 102A share a side wall 103B, receptacles 102A and 102C share a side wall 103C, and receptacles 102B and 101B share a side wall 103D.

[0165] Figure 1D shows that the receptacle can have various diameters. Using receptacle 101A as an example, it can be seen that the diameter of the receptacle decreases from the first end 105 to the further end 106. Figure 1D also shows how the angle α between the normal 131 of the first component 109 and the side wall 103 of receptacle 101A is defined. The angle α is defined between the normal 131 and line 132, which is parallel to the side wall 103.

[0166] Figure 2 Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment 200 of the first structure 100 according to the present invention, and is shown in isometric view. The first structure 100 has a first plurality of receptacles, such as receptacle 101, and a second plurality of receptacles, such as receptacle 102. The first structure also has a first component 109 surrounding the receptacles of the first structure. The first plurality and further plurality of receptacles have raised sections 112 extending above the first surface 110 of the first component 109.

[0167] Figure 2B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the first structure 100 shown in Figure 2A. Figure 2B shows that the first ends of the first plurality of receptacles and the first ends of the second plurality of receptacles have recesses. For example, receptacle 101 of the first plurality of receptacles has a recess 114A, while receptacle 102 of the second plurality of receptacles has a recess 114B. Furthermore, recess 114B is deeper than recess 114A. Figure 2B also shows that the further ends of the first plurality of receptacles and the further ends of the second plurality of receptacles have recesses. As an example, receptacle 102 has a recess 115 at a further end of the receptacle. Both the first and second plurality of receptacles also have projections, such as projections 116, that extend into the interior of the receptacle. These protrusions are fitted and positioned to position the container within the receptacle when the container is inserted into, held in, and removed from the receptacle.

[0168] Figure 2B further shows that the first structure 100 is stacked on top of a further structure 117. The further structure 117 has the same configuration as the first structure 100 (for example, including a first and further plurality of receptacles having recesses at the first and further ends, as well as receptacles having raised sections). The raised sections of the further structure 117 are fitted and positioned to be received by recesses at the further ends of the receptacles of the first structure 100. Furthermore, the receptacles of the first structure 100 are not located within the receptacles of the further structure 117, such as receptacle 118.

[0169] Figure 3 Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment 300 of the first structure 100 according to the present invention, and is shown in isometric view. The first structure 100 in Figure 3 is the same as the first structure 100 in Figure 2, but with the following differences: The first end of the second plurality of receptacles of the first structure 100 does not have a raised section extending above the first component 109, as shown in Figure 3A. Rather, the sections of the first end of the second plurality of receptacles (e.g., section 122) are at the same height as the first component 109, while the other sections (e.g., recess 114B) are below the first component 109. This is further shown in Figure 3B, where it can be seen that section 122 is at a lower height compared to the raised section 112. In Figure 3B, it can also be seen that only the first plurality of receptacles has a raised section, and that the first plurality of receptacles are positioned as the outermost receptacles. Furthermore, of the first plurality of receptacles, only the side wall sections of the receptacle directly adjacent to the first component 109 extend above the first component 109. Recesses such as 114A between the raised sections are also deeper than recesses such as 114B that are not located between two raised sections.

[0170] Figure 4 Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment 400 of the first structure 100 according to the present invention. The third embodiment 400 of the first structure 100 in Figure 4 is the same as the first structure shown in Figure 2, but with the following differences. The protrusions of the first structure 100 in Figure 2 extend along the entire length of the receptacle. This is in contrast to the protrusions of the first structure in Figure 4. As seen in Figure 4B, the protrusions such as the protrusion 116 do not extend along the entire length of the receptacle. This applies to both the first and second sets of receptacles.

[0171] Figure 5 Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment 500 of the first structure 100 according to the present invention. Figure 5A is a schematic diagram showing a cutout of the first structure 100 stacked on a further structure 117. Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of Figure 5A. Figure 5A shows that the first structure 100 has protrusions, such as a projection 123A extending above the first face 110 of the first component 109. These protrusions may be located between a plurality of first receptacles, such as receptacles 101A and 102B in Figure 5A. As shown in Figure 5B, a receptacle (of the plurality of first receptacles) may have a recess 115 at a further end 106 of the receptacle, which is adapted and positioned to receive a protrusion (such as projection 123B) of the further structure 117. Among other advantages, the protrusions allow for restricting the movement of the first structure 100 relative to the further structure 117. Here, movement includes both translational and rotational movement. The projection may also allow for limiting the insertion length (see Figure 7B and the accompanying drawing description).

[0172] Figure 6 Figures 6A to 6D show modified embodiments of the apparatus of the first plurality of receptacles in the first structure 100. Figure 6A shows the first structure 100 viewed from above. The first structure comprises a first plurality of receptacles (e.g., receptacles 101A and 101B), each of the first plurality of receptacles having a raised section (e.g., raised section 112). The raised sections are shown in bold. The first structure 100 also has a second plurality of receptacles (e.g., receptacle 102). The second plurality of receptacles are characterized by the absence of raised sections. As seen in Figure 6A, the raised sections do not extend around the entire perimeter of the first plurality of receptacles. For example, the raised section of receptacle 101A extends around 75% of the perimeter of that receptacle. In contrast, the raised section of receptacle 101B extends around 50% of the circumference of the receptacle. Furthermore, Figure 6A shows that the first set of receptacles are arranged within the first structure such that the receptacles form the outermost receptacles of the first structure.

[0173] Figure 6B shows an alternative example of the first structure 100 in Figure 6A. As seen in Figure 6B, the first structure 100 has only a first set of receptacles. Furthermore, the raised sections 112 of the receptacles extend around the entire circumference of the receptacles.

[0174] Figure 6C shows an alternative example of the first structure 100 in Figure 6A. As seen in Figure 6C, the raised section 112 not only forms part of the sidewall of the first plurality of receptacles, but the raised section 112 may also extend between the first plurality of receptacles.

[0175] Figure 6D shows an alternative to the first structure 100 in Figure 6A. As seen in Figure 6D, the first set of receptacles may be located at the center of the first structure.

[0176] It should be noted that Figures 6A to 6D are merely examples of embodiments of the first structure and should not be considered limiting. For example, the first structure may have only a plurality of first receptacles having raised sections, where the raised sections extend around only 50% of the perimeter of the receptacle.

[0177] Figures 7A and 7B Figures 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating how various parameters are defined. Figure 7A shows a cross-sectional view of receptacle 101 (which forms part of a first group of receptacles). As shown in Figure 7A, the length 124 of receptacle 101 is defined between the lowest point 138 of the first end 105 of receptacle 101 and the lowest point of a further end 106. Note that the lowest point 138 of the first end 105 does not necessarily have to be located within a recess such as a recess 114. For example, the receptacle may have a raised section with uneven height and no recess, and such raised section extends around 100% of the circumference of the receptacle. Here, the lowest point 138 is measured at the lowest point of the raised section. As another example, a receptacle may have a raised section that extends only about 50% of the circumference of the receptacle (see, for example, receptacle 101B in Figure 6A). In this case, the lowest point 138 is not located on the raised section and is located where there is no raised section on the first end 105. If the receptacle has a non-uniform diameter (for example, the receptacle is conical), the length is measured parallel to a line passing through the center of the receptacle, as shown for the receptacle in Figure 7B.

[0178] Figure 7A also shows how the depth 125 and width 126 of the recess 114 at the first end 105 of the receptacle 101 are measured. Figure 7A further shows how the depth 127 and width 128 of the recess 115 at a further end 106 of the receptacle 101 are measured. In Figure 7A, it can also be seen that any section of the side wall 103 above the first face 110 of the first component is defined as a raised section 112, and that the raised section 112 is indicated by gray shading. The height 130 of the raised section 112 is measured as shown, i.e., the height 130 is measured from the first face 110 to the top point of the raised section 112. The height 130 is measured perpendicular to the first face 110.

[0179] Figure 7B shows how the length of the side wall of the first receptacle 101 located within the further receptacle 118 is determined (the first receptacle 101 forms part of the first group of receptacles, and the further receptacle 118 forms part of the further group of receptacles). As seen in Figure 7B for receptacle 101, the section of the side wall 103 between points A and B is located within receptacle 118, and points A and B are separated by a distance 139. This distance 139 is also referred to as the insertion length. Also shown in Figure 7B, receptacle 118 has further components 120 and a raised section 141. Furthermore, the side wall 121 of receptacle 118 has a varying height (i.e., the raised section 141 does not extend at a uniform height around receptacle 118). Similar to how the length of the receptacle is measured, the insertion length 139 is measured relative to the lowest point 140 of the first end (of the side wall 121) of the further receptacle 118. Therefore, the insertion length is not measured relative to the highest point 142 of the first end (of the side wall 121) of the further receptacle 118. The fraction of the length of the side wall of the first receptacle 101 located within the further receptacle 101 is calculated by dividing the insertion length 139 by the length of the receptacle 118.

[0180] Figure 7B also illustrates how the length of a receptacle with a non-uniform diameter is measured. As shown for receptacle 101, the length is measured parallel to line C passing through the center of receptacle 101.

[0181] Figure 7B further illustrates how the proportion of the outer surface of the side wall of the first receptacle 101 that is in contact with the inner surface of the side wall of the further receptacle 118 is determined. In Figure 7B, the outer surface 108 of side wall 103 is in contact with the inner surface 129 of side wall 121 between points A and B. This size of contact area determines the proportion of the total surface area of ​​the outer surface 108 as described above. The bottom of receptacle 101 is not included when determining the total surface area of ​​the outer surface 108. In other words, the outer surface 108 has the same total surface area regardless of whether the further end 106 of receptacle 101 is open or closed. Furthermore, the proportion of contact between the respective surfaces of receptacles 101 and 118 is measured relative to the lowest point 140 of the first end (of side wall 121) of the further receptacle 118, as defined for the insertion length 139.

[0182] Figure 8 Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of receptacle 101 (which forms part of the first set of receptacles). The receptacle has projections 116A and 116B extending into the interior of receptacle 101 (projection 116A is viewed from the side, and projection 116B is viewed from the front). These projections do not have a uniform thickness. Rather, as can be seen with projection 116A, the thickness increases from the upper point 133 to point 134, forming a surface that can be used to facilitate the insertion of a container into the receptacle. The thickness of projection 116A increases further between point 134 and the lower point 135 of projection 116A. However, the rate of increase in thickness between point 133 and point 134 is greater than the rate of increase in thickness between point 134 and point 135. Thus, point 134 forms a vertex, which is part of the edge of projection 116A. In an alternative embodiment, the thickness of the projection 116A may also decrease between points 134 and 135. Figure 8 also shows how the distance 136 between the first end 105 and the vertex 134 of the receptacle is measured. The distance 136 is measured from the highest point (in the sense of Figure 8) of the first end 105. Figure 8 further shows how the length 137 of the projection is measured. If the sidewall of the receptacle has a varying diameter, for example as shown in Figure 7A, the distance 136 and length 137 are measured parallel to a line passing through the center of the receptacle (see line C in Figure 7B).

[0183] Figure 9 Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing how the dimensions of the projection are measured. Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a simplified structure. The height 143 of the projection 123 is measured from the first face 110 of the first component 109 to the top of the projection 123. The height 143 is also measured perpendicular to the first face 110. The maximum vertical dimension 144 of the projection is measured perpendicular to the height 143. As shown in Figure 9, the projection 123 is narrower at the top compared to the base. Therefore, the maximum vertical dimension 144 is measured at the base of the projection 123. Figure 9 further shows that the projection 123 has a surface 145 positioned at a certain angle to the first face 110 (i.e., the angle is not 90°). This surface 145 allows for easier insertion of the projection 123 into recesses of further structures when those further structures are stacked on top of the structure in Figure 9.

[0184] Figure 10 Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for processing at least two structures. In step 201, a first structure is provided as shown in Figure 1A. The first structure has a first plurality of receptacles. Further structures are also provided, configured similarly to the first structure. The further structures have a further plurality of receptacles. In step 202, the first structure is positioned in contact with the further structures by stacking the further structures on top of the first structure (see Figure 1B). Furthermore, less than 20% of the length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles lies within the first plurality of receptacles.

[0185] Examples The present invention will be further explained by examples. The present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0186] Example 1 Example 1 is a comparison between a structure according to the present invention and a structure not according to the present invention.

[0187] Example 1.1 (The present invention) Example 1.1 relates to a first nest according to the present invention. Such a nest is shown, for example, in Figures 2A and 2B, and Figures 3A and 3B. The first nest is an example of a first structure. The first nest comprises a plurality of first receptacles adapted and arranged to house a container. Each of the receptacles has a projection extending into the interior of the receptacle.

[0188] The first nest is adapted and positioned such that, when the first nest is stacked on top of a further nest (which is also according to the present invention and configured in the same way as the first nest), less than 3 mm of the sidewall length of the first plurality of receptacles is inserted into the further plurality of receptacles of the further nest. Similarly, when a further nest is stacked on top of the first nest, less than 3 mm of the sidewall length of the further plurality of receptacles is inserted into the first plurality of receptacles. Furthermore, when the first nest and the second nest are stacked on top of each other, the receptacles of the upper nest (e.g., the first nest) do not come into contact with the projections of the lower nest (e.g., the second nest).

[0189] Example 1.2 (Comparison) Example 1.2 relates to a third nest not according to the present invention. Therefore, the third nest is an example of a structure not according to the present invention. The third nest comprises a third plurality of receptacles adapted and arranged to house a container. Each receptacle has a projection extending into the interior of the receptacle.

[0190] The third nest is fitted and positioned such that, when the third nest is stacked on top of the fourth nest (configured in the same manner as the third nest), at least 50% (more than 5 mm) of the length of the sidewalls of the third plurality of receptacles is inserted into the fourth plurality of receptacles of the fourth nest. Similarly, when the fourth nest is stacked on top of the third nest, at least 50% (more than 5 mm) of the length of the sidewalls of the fourth plurality of receptacles is inserted into the third plurality of receptacles. Furthermore, when the third and fourth nests are stacked on top of each other, the receptacles of the upper nest (e.g., the third nest) come into contact with the projections of the lower nest (e.g., the fourth nest).

[0191] Table 1 below provides a comparison of the technical effects of the nesting method in Example 1.1 and the nesting method in Example 1.2.

[0192] [Table 1]

[0193] The technical effects shown in Table 1 are as follows: - Particle formation on nests: Contact between nests leads to the formation of particles on the nests. This can occur, for example, during nest stacking, nest separation, and while nests are stacked. The inner and outer surfaces of the containers subsequently housed in the nests are then contaminated by these particles. "-" indicates little particle formation, and "+" indicates a lot of particle formation. Reducing particle formation is desirable. - Force required to stack nests: The force required to stack nests on top of each other. For example, longer insertion lengths generally require the receptacle of the upper nest to be pushed into the receptacle of the lower nest during nest stacking. "-" indicates that a smaller force is required, and "+" indicates that a larger force is required. It is desirable to reduce the required force. - Damage during nest stacking: Damage that occurs during the stacking of nests. Examples of damage include cracks and deformation of the nests. "-" indicates little nest damage, and "+" indicates a lot of nest damage. It is desirable to reduce damage during nest stacking. - Force required to separate nests: The force required to remove nests that are stacked on top of each other. For example, a greater force is required when the receptacle of an upper nest is pushed into or tightened into the receptacle of a lower nest. "-" indicates that a smaller force is required, and "+" indicates that a larger force is required. It is desirable to reduce the required force. - Damage during nest separation: Damage that occurs during the separation of stacked nests. Examples of damage include cracking and deformation of the nests. "-" indicates that the nests are less damaged during separation, and "+" indicates that the nests are more damaged. Reducing damage during nest separation is desirable. - Restrictions on movement when stacked: How is the movement of two nests relative to each other restricted when the nests are stacked? Examples of movement may include one or more of rotation, translation, and tilt. "-" indicates less restricted movement, and "+" indicates more restricted movement (i.e., the nests can move less relative to each other). Restricted relative movement (less movement) is desirable. - Consistency of contact surfaces between stacked nests: Whether the contact surfaces between stacked nests remain consistent. Nests are designed to contact each other at specific points when stacked. However, when nests are fitted and positioned such that more than 30% of the length of the side wall of the receptacle of one nest lies within the receptacle of another nest when stacked, the surfaces on which the nests contact each other are difficult to control in practice. This is due, among other things, to variations in the dimensions of the receptacles of the nests, as well as to warping or bending of the nests that occurs during the manufacture and / or handling of the nests. For example, conventional nests are often designed so that when stacked, the receptacle of the upper nest makes equal contact with the projection of the lower nest. However, in practice, the upper nest generally tilts or shifts, which leads to the upper nest contacting less of the projection of the lower nest than intended. This leads to the upper and lower nests exerting forces on each other over a smaller surface area than designed. Nests that, when stacked, come into contact with each other on the same predictable surface are said to have a consistent contact surface. "-" indicates a less consistent contact surface, and "+" indicates a more consistent contact surface. A more consistent contact surface is desirable. - Manufacturing tolerances for nests: Tolerances for the dimensions of the nests. "-" indicates a small tolerance, and "+" indicates a large tolerance. Larger tolerances are desirable. - Manufacturing a nest with desired specifications: How easy is it to manufacture a nest with desired specifications? When a nest is fitted and positioned such that the receptacle of a stacked nest has a very limited insertion, the receptacle is sized primarily to receive a container, as opposed to being sized to receive both a container and a receptacle of another nest. As a result, the receptacle can be sized to provide an improved fit for the container when housed within the nest. This also makes it possible to manufacture a nest with less mass and shape deviation from the desired values. "-" indicates that it is more difficult to manufacture a nest with desired specifications, and "+" indicates that it is easier. It is desirable that it is easier to manufacture a nest with desired specifications. - Function of positioning element: To what extent can the receptacle's positioning element (projection) position the container during insertion into the receptacle, removal from the receptacle, and accommodation in the receptacle? When the receptacle of the upper nest (upper receptacle) is placed inside the receptacle of the lower nest (receiving receptacle) during nest stacking, the positioning element generally needs to be adapted and positioned not only to facilitate the positioning of the container, but also to allow the insertion of the upper receptacle into the receiving receptacle. As a result, the positioning element generally does not function optimally. "-" indicates that the positioning element does not function very optimally, and "+" indicates that the positioning element functions more optimally. It is desirable for the positioning element to function more optimally. - Number of nests that can be stacked: The number of nests that can be stacked on top of each other without damaging the nests. "-" indicates that fewer nests can be stacked, and "+" indicates that more nests can be stacked. It is desirable to increase the number of nests that can be stacked. - Heat transfer during freeze-drying: When a container is housed in a nest, it is often subjected to the freeze-drying process. "-" indicates little heat transfer between the nest and the container housed within it, while "+" indicates a lot of heat transfer. More heat transfer is desirable.

[0194] Example 2 In Example 2, nests A with various insertion lengths are provided, as shown in Table 2. The receptacle A of each nest A is configured similarly. The insertion length of each nest A is defined as the length of the side wall of the receptacle A located within the receptacle B of each nest B when each nest A is stacked on top of each nest B (each nest A and B is configured similarly). The technical effects of the variation in insertion length are also shown in Table 2.

[0195] [Table 2]

[0196] The technical effects in Table 2 are the same as those described in Table 1.

[0197] Example 3 In Example 3, nests are provided as shown in Figures 2A and 2B. An exception is Example 3.1, where the nests do not have raised sections. The height of the raised sections varies between nests, as shown in Table 3 below. The technical effects of the height variation are also shown in Table 3.

[0198] [Table 3]

[0199] The technical effects of Table 3 are the same as those described in Tables 1 and 2. In addition, Table 3 has the following technical effects. - Force distribution when stacked: When an upper nest is stacked on top of a lower nest, the upper nest exerts force on the lower nest across the contact area. As the contact area increases, the force distribution on the lower nest improves. "-" indicates a small force distribution, and "+" indicates a large force distribution. Improving the force distribution is desirable.

[0200] Example 4 In Example 4, the nest has the following features, namely, various iterations of raised sections and protrusions (nests with protrusions are shown in Figures 5A and 5B, Feature 123A). Various iterations are shown in Table 4. For example, the nest of Example 4.2 has raised sections (as shown, for example, in Figures 2A and 2B) but no protrusions. The technical effects associated with these features are also shown in Table 4.

[0201] [Table 4]

[0202] The technical effects in Table 4 are the same as those described in Tables 1-3. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0203] 100 The first structure 101 Receptacle of the first of multiple receptacles 102 Receptacle of the second set of receptacles 103 Side wall 104 Inside the receptacle 105 First end of the receptacle 106 Further ends of the receptacle 107 Inner surface of the side wall 108 Outer surface of the side wall 109 First ingredient 110 First surface of the first component 111 Further aspects of the first component 112 Elevated Sections 113 The first end of the second set of receptacles 114 Recess at the first end 115 Recesses at further ends 116 Protrusion 117 Further structure 118 Receptacles among multiple further receptacles 119 The third receptacle among multiple receptacles 120 Further ingredients 121 Side wall 122 Section of the first end of a receptacle among a second set of receptacles 123 Protrusion 124 Receptacle Length 125 Depth of the recess at the first end 126 Width of the recess at the first end 127 Depth of recess at further ends 128 Width of recess at further ends 129 Inner surface of the side wall 130 Height of the raised section 131 Normal 132 A line parallel to the side wall 133 Upper protruding point 134 vertices 135 Downward protrusion point 136 Distance between the first edge and the vertex 137 Length of the protruding part 138 The lowest point of the first end 139 Insertion length 140 The lowest point of the first end of the further receptacle 141 Elevated Section 142 The uppermost point of the first end of a further receptacle 143 Height of the protruding part 144 Maximum vertical dimension of the protruding part 145 Inclined surface of the protruding part

Claims

1. The first structure, a. A first plurality of receptacles, wherein each of the first plurality of receptacles is i. Adapted and arranged to accommodate the container, ii. Having a first end and a further end opposite to the first end, iii. A side wall comprising at least partially enclosing the interior of the receptacle, The first set of multiple receptacles, b. A first component that at least partially surrounds the first plurality of receptacles, i. The first component has a first surface and a further surface opposite to the first surface, ii. The first surface is oriented toward the first end of the first plurality of receptacles, iii. The further surfaces are oriented toward the further ends of the first plurality of receptacles, The first component and, Equipped with, The first plurality of receptacles are adapted and positioned such that the first structure is positioned in contact with a further structure comprising a further plurality of receptacles, and each of the further plurality of receptacles is i. Adapted and arranged to accommodate the container, ii. Having a first end and a further end opposite to the first end, iii. A side wall that at least partially encloses the interior of the receptacle, I. Less than 30% of the length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure is located within the further plurality of receptacles of the further structure, and / or II. The length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles of the further structure is 30% or less of the length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles of the first structure, At least one or all of the following apply: The first structure.

2. The first plurality of receptacles are arranged such that the first structure is in contact with the further structure. a. The length of the side walls of the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure located within the further plurality of receptacles of the further structure is 10 mm or less. b. The length of the side walls of the further plurality of receptacles of the further structure, located within the first plurality of receptacles of the first structure, is 10 mm or less. The first structure according to claim 1, which is adapted and arranged so that at least one or all of the following apply.

3. Each of the first plurality of receptacles comprises at least one raised section extending above the first surface of the first component, A. The at least one raised section forms at least partially the side wall of each of the receptacles, B. The first surface of the first component faces the first end of each of the receptacles, C. The first surface of the first component faces away from the further end of each of the receptacles. The first structure according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first structure according to claim 3, wherein the height of the raised section is xL, where L is the average length of the receptacle, and x is in the range of 0.005 to 0.

5.

5. The first structure according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the height of the raised section is in the range of 0.1 to 8 mm.

6. The first structure according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the at least one raised section extends around at least 15% of the circumference of each of the receptacles.

7. The first structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first end of each of the first plurality of receptacles is provided with at least one recess.

8. a. The depth of at least one recess at the first end of the first plurality of receptacles is within the range of >0 to 35 mm. b. The width of at least one recess at the first end of the first plurality of receptacles is within the range of >0 to 35 mm. The first structure according to claim 7, wherein at least one or all of the following apply.

9. The first structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the further end of each of the first plurality of receptacles comprises at least one recess.

10. The first structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first structure comprises at least one projection extending above the first surface of the first component.

11. a. The at least one protrusion has a height within the range of 0.1 to 8 mm. b. The at least one projection has a maximum dimension within the range of 0.5 to 10 mm, measured perpendicular to the height of the at least one projection. The first structure according to claim 10, wherein at least one or all of the following apply.

12. a. The number of receptacles among the first plurality of receptacles is less than the total number of receptacles in the first structure. b. The number of receptacles among the first plurality of receptacles is equal to the total number of receptacles in the first structure. A first structure according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein one of the following applies.

13. An apparatus comprising a first structure A according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and a further structure B, a. The first structure A described above is i. A first plurality of receptacles A, wherein the receptacle A among the first plurality of receptacles A is A. Having a first end A and a further end A, B. A side wall A that at least partially encloses the interior A of the receptacle A, The first set of multiple receptacles A, ii. A first component A that at least partially surrounds the first plurality of receptacles A, Equipped with, b. The further structure B is, i. A further plurality of receptacles B, wherein the receptacle B among the further plurality of receptacles B is A. Having a first end B and a further end B, B. The receptacle B comprises a side wall B that at least partially encloses the interior B of the receptacle B, Further multiple receptacles B, ii. A further component B that at least partially surrounds the further plurality of receptacles B, Equipped with, The aforementioned structure B is, I. Less than 30% of the length of the side wall A is located within the further plurality of receptacles B, and / or II. Less than 30% of the length of the side wall B is located within the first plurality of receptacles A. Arranged in contact with structure A such that at least one or all of the following apply: Device.

14. A method for processing at least two structures, a. A step of providing a first structure A according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and a further structure B, i. The first structure A comprises a first plurality of receptacles A and a first component A that at least partially surrounds the first plurality of receptacles A, wherein the receptacle A among the first plurality of receptacles A is A. Having a first end A and a further end A, B. The receptacle A is provided with a side wall A that at least partially encloses the interior A of the receptacle A, ii. The further structure B comprises a further plurality of receptacles B and a further component B that at least partially surrounds the further plurality of receptacles B, wherein the receptacle B among the further plurality of receptacles B is A. Having a first end B and a further end B, B. The receptacle B comprises a side wall B that at least partially encloses the interior B of the receptacle B, Steps and b. The first structure A described above, I. Less than 30% of the length of the side wall A is located within the further plurality of receptacles B, and / or II. Less than 30% of the length of the side wall B is located within the first plurality of receptacles A. The steps include positioning it so as to be in contact with the further structure B, Methods that include...

15. A use of the first structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12, a. To reduce the force required to remove the first structure and the further structure from each other when the first structure is in contact with the further structure. b. To reduce contact between the receptacle of the first structure and the projection of the further structure when the first structure and the further structure are in contact, wherein the projection extends into the interior of the receptacle of the further structure, and / or to reduce contact between the receptacle of the further structure and the projection of the first structure, wherein the projection extends into the interior of the receptacle of the first structure. c. To reduce particle formation on the first structure when the first structure is in contact with a further structure. d. When the first structure and the further structure are in contact, reduce contact between the side wall of the first structure and the further structure, and / or reduce contact between the side wall of the further structure and the first structure. e. To reduce the movement of the first structure relative to the further structure when the first structure is in contact with the further structure. Use for at least one or all of the following.

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