Sterile packaging of medicine bottles and their closures using trays

Abstract

To provide means of packaging bottle stickers and bottle plugs in a small number each.SOLUTION: This means includes a tray for bottles. The tray for bottles contains a plurality of vessels spaced apart to accommodate one bottle at a time. This means also includes a tray for bottle stickers. The tray for bottle stickers has a plurality of vessels spaced apart to accommodate one bottle sticker each. The means further includes a tray for bottle plugs. The tray for bottle plugs has a plurality of vessels spaced apart to accommodate one bottle plug each. Grooves extend in the plurality of spaced apart vessels for bottle stickers and can provide a gap convenient for gripping each bottle sticker. Similarly, grooves extend in the plurality of spaced apart vessels for bottle plugs and can provide a gap convenient for gripping each bottle plug.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 131,151, filed December 28, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This application relates to vials and closures thereof, and in particular to sterilization trays for stoppers and seals on pharmaceutical vials. [Background technology]

[0003] The development and manufacture of novel biological agents, including various gene therapy drugs, requires the manual or semi-automated filling of small batches of agents into containers with closures. The steps of filling containers, such as glass or plastic vials, closing the vials with elastomeric stoppers, and capping the vials with pleated aluminum seals are typically performed manually in small batches in compact workspaces, such as small biosecure cabinets or hooded laboratory benches. However, vial stoppers and seals are typically manufactured in large batches and shipped in large batches in bulk packaging, such as sterile bags. For example, manufacturers of cell and gene therapy drugs typically use pharmaceutical closures that are only available in relatively large batches. These closure packaging was developed to be filled and finished in large batches by automated filling machines. This can make unpackaging the closures, along with the aseptic transfer of the closures onto the vials, complex and difficult when performed in small biosecure cabinets. As a result, there is a high risk of microbial and particulate contamination of the assembled and filled vial.

[0004] Furthermore, such bulk packages require users to remove a small number of vial closures from a large package and place them in a biosecure cabinet before use. This unpacking process often results in users dropping the closures on a laboratory bench or repacking the contents of the bulk package into another container, such as a glass dish, while still sterile. Such procedures are also cumbersome, as larger packages are more difficult to handle within compact laboratory equipment or biosecure cabinets. Furthermore, locating individual closures within a bulk package requires multiple steps, which often result in handling and moving many closures. As a result, this process poses a high risk of compromising the desired sterility of the closures.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the invention is to allow a user to easily retrieve both bottle seals and bottle stoppers from trays containing small quantities while working in a compact workspace. Such a task would be much easier than if traditional packaging methods for seals and stoppers were used, where the seals and stoppers are bulk-packaged in bags, requiring the user to first remove the items from the workspace surface and then spread them across the workspace surface so that the closures can be placed one by one on the bottles. Such a traditional task is particularly difficult to perform in the limited space of a biosafety cabinet or laboratory bench. Furthermore, if a user must reach into a bulk-packaged bag to grab one or more closures, there is a high risk of contamination, as the sterility within the bag is compromised, increasing the risk of contaminating other items within the bag.

[0006] Conventional trays used to store pharmaceutical preparations are generally large, and after delivery to a pharmaceutical manufacturer or factory, they are typically handled in a predetermined arrangement, such as by being held or housed in a support structure. However, such conventional trays are not well suited for use in laboratory facilities or biosecure cabinets. Therefore, there is a clear need for novel trays and related kits that provide small numbers of sterile, ready-to-use obturators. These trays and kits, such as those for small numbers of cell and gene therapy drugs, are designed for easy and safe handling during fill and finish operations in compact environments, including laboratory benches or biosecure cabinets. Furthermore, trays and kits are needed that are safer and easier to handle than conventional bulk packaging by requiring users to access each component stored in the tray. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The above needs are largely met by the packaging trays of the invention disclosed herein. These trays include a bottle sealing tray. The bottle sealing tray includes a body having an upper surface forming an array of vessels. The array includes a plurality of rows of vessels. Each row of vessels has a plurality of vessels spaced apart. Each vessel is configured to removably secure a single bottle seal. The bottle sealing tray further includes a connecting network. The connecting network is disposed on the upper surface of the bottle sealing tray and connects the plurality of vessels. Each vessel defines a cavity extending downward from the upper surface of the bottle sealing tray and a closed lower end. The cavity is configured to receive a portion of a bottle seal. Each vessel has an area for supporting the bottle seal protruding upward from the center of the closed lower end. A groove extends through the plurality of vessels spaced apart in each row of vessels. The groove provides a gap on each side of each vessel that is convenient for grasping the bottle seal held in each vessel.

[0008] According to another feature of the invention disclosed in this specification, the rows of vessels are parallel to one another and laterally offset from one another, thereby offsetting the positions of the vessels between adjacent rows of vessels.

[0009] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, each vessel is generally cylindrical.

[0010] In accordance with another aspect of the invention disclosed herein, a bottle sealing tray includes a base defining a flange projecting outwardly from its periphery.

[0011] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, a tray wall extends around the periphery of the bottle sealing tray between the top surface of the bottle sealing tray and the base.

[0012] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the tray wall includes a recess configured for convenient loading of another bottle sealing tray.

[0013] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the top surface of the bottle sealing tray includes a chamfered edge along the periphery of the bottle sealing tray to facilitate stacking of another bottle sealing tray.

[0014] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the aforementioned region of each vessel includes a hemispherical tip.

[0015] According to another aspect of the invention disclosed herein, a bottle stopper tray includes a body. The body has an upper surface that forms an array of vessels. The array includes a plurality of rows of vessels. Each row of vessels has a plurality of vessels spaced apart, each configured to removably secure a single bottle stopper. The bottle stopper tray further includes a connecting network. The connecting network is disposed on the upper surface of the bottle stopper tray and connects the plurality of vessels. Each vessel defines a cavity extending downward from the upper surface of the bottle stopper tray and a closed lower end. The cavity is configured to receive a portion of a bottle stopper. Each vessel has an area for supporting the bottle stopper that protrudes upward from the center of the closed lower end. A groove extends through the plurality of vessels spaced apart in each row. The groove provides a gap on both sides of each vessel that is convenient for grasping the bottle stopper held in each vessel.

[0016] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, each vessel includes a bumper configured to removably secure a portion of the bottle stopper within the cavity.

[0017] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the buffer portion extends from the inner wall of the vessel inwardly and circumferentially, narrowing the opening of the cavity.

[0018] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the buffer is configured to engage a portion of the bottle closure in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0019] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the channel is further configured to direct steam along each row of vessels to sterilize each bottle stopper located in that row.

[0020] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, reinforcing ribs may be disposed on the upper surface of the bottle stopper tray and extend perpendicular to the grooves to increase the rigidity of the upper surface thereof.

[0021] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, each vessel is generally cylindrical.

[0022] In accordance with another aspect of the invention disclosed herein, a bottle stopper tray includes a base defining a flange projecting outwardly from its periphery.

[0023] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, a tray wall extends around the periphery of the bottle stopper tray between the top surface of the bottle stopper tray and the base.

[0024] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the tray wall includes a recess configured for convenient loading of another bottle stopper tray.

[0025] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the tray walls include fluting configured to enhance stability of the bottle stopper tray.

[0026] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the bottle stopper tray includes a chamfered edge along its periphery for convenient loading of another bottle stopper tray.

[0027] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the aforementioned region of each vessel includes a hemispherical tip.

[0028] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the lid of the bottle stopper tray is configured to be removably attached to the body thereof.

[0029] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the lid of the bottle stopper tray is adapted to be attached to the body of the tray in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0030] According to another feature of the invention disclosed in this specification, the lid of the bottle stopper tray includes a base including a side wall extending around its periphery, and a locking projection extending from a portion of the side wall for matingly engaging with a portion of the body of the bottle stopper tray.

[0031] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the lid of the bottle stopper tray includes a flange extending outwardly from its periphery.

[0032] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the lid of the bottle stopper tray includes a base surface having a plurality of protruding retention areas, each of which is sized and shaped to fit within a single vessel when the lid is attached to the bottle stopper tray.

[0033] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the lid of the bottle stopper tray includes a reinforcing rib projecting from its bottom surface.

[0034] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, a set of kits includes a bottle tray. The bottle tray has a base including a bottle container array. The bottle container array includes a plurality of bottle container rows, each row including a plurality of spaced apart bottle containers configured to receive a single bottle top. The kit also includes a bottle sealing tray. The bottle sealing tray has a body having an upper surface forming the seal container array. The seal container array includes a plurality of seal container rows, each including a plurality of spaced apart seal containers configured to receive a single bottle seal. Each seal container row includes grooves extending through the spaced apart seal containers, providing gaps on both sides of each seal container for convenient gripping of the bottle seal held in each seal container. The kit also includes a bottle stopper tray. The bottle stopper tray has a body having an upper surface forming the stopper container array. The stopper arrangement includes a plurality of rows of stopper holders, each row containing a plurality of spaced apart stopper holders configured to receive a single bottle stopper, and each row of stopper holders includes a groove extending through the spaced apart stopper holders to provide a convenient gap on each side of the stopper holder for grasping the bottle stopper held therein.

[0035] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the bottle tray further includes a lid including a plurality of recesses positioned to receive the bottom of a single bottle.

[0036] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the outer periphery of the lid of the jar tray is shaped and sized to fit within the opening in the base of the jar tray to seal each jar in the jar tray.

[0037] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the lid of the jar tray is configured to hook onto the base in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0038] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the primary container is configured to house a vial sealing tray.

[0039] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the primary container is a first sterilization bag for forming a first sterility barrier.

[0040] In accordance with another feature of the invention disclosed herein, a secondary container is configured to house the vial sealing tray and the primary container.

[0041] According to another feature of the invention disclosed herein, the secondary container is a second sterilization bag, which may act as a second sterilization barrier to the vial sealing tray.

[0042] There have thus been outlined certain embodiments of the invention disclosed herein. These embodiments may be better understood in order that the detailed description that follows may be better understood, and that the invention's contribution to the art may be better appreciated. The invention disclosed herein has other embodiments, which are described below and which form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

[0043] In this regard, before describing at least one feature of the packaging tray in detail, it should be understood that the application of the packaging tray is not limited to the details of construction and arrangement of elements set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings, and that the packaging tray may have features in addition to those described and may be implemented and carried out in various ways. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] In order that the invention disclosed herein may be readily understood, features of a packaging tray are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings, in which like parts are referred to by like reference numerals throughout, and in which:

[0045] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a bottle sealing tray according to the invention disclosed in this specification, seen from the top side. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the bottle sealing tray shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the bottom side. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a top view of the bottle sealing tray shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bottle sealing tray taken along line IV-IV shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bottle sealing tray according to another embodiment of the invention disclosed in this specification, as seen from the top side. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bottle sealing tray shown in FIG. 5 as seen from the bottom side. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a top view of the bottle sealing tray shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the bottle sealing tray taken along line VIII-VIII shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 1 is a perspective view of a bottle stopper tray according to the invention disclosed in this specification, seen from the top side. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. 9 as seen from the bottom side. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a top view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. [Figure 12]12 is a cross-sectional view of the bottle stopper tray taken along the line XII-XII shown in FIG. 11. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bottle stopper tray according to another embodiment of the invention disclosed in this specification, as seen from the top side. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. 13 as seen from the bottom side. [Figure 15] FIG. 14 is a top view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. [Figure 16] 16 is a cross-sectional view of the bottle stopper tray taken along the line XVI-XVI shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bottle stopper tray and its lid according to another embodiment of the invention disclosed in this specification, as seen from the top side. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a top view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. [Figure 19] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the bottle stopper tray taken along the line XIX-XIX shown in FIG. 17. [Figure 20] FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 18 is a front view of the bottle stopper tray shown in FIG. [Figure 22] 1 is a perspective view of a bottle tray according to the invention disclosed in this specification, seen from the top side; FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a top view of the bottle tray shown in FIG. 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the bottle tray shown in FIG. 22 as seen from the bottom side. [Figure 25] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a lid for a jar tray according to the invention disclosed herein. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bottle tray according to another embodiment of the presently disclosed invention, as seen from the top side. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a top view of the bottle tray shown in FIG. 26. [Figure 28] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the bottle tray shown in FIG. 26 as seen from the bottom side. [Figure 29] 27 is a perspective view of the lid of the bottle tray shown in FIG. 26 as seen from the bottom side. FIG. [Figure 30]FIG. 27 is a bottom view of the lid of the bottle tray shown in FIG. 26. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046] This disclosure describes various configurations of sterilization trays for stoppers, seals, and other closures used with vials. Figures 1-4 show a vial sealing tray 100. The tray 100 includes an array 110 of receptacles 120, each configured to removably receive and secure a single vial seal. The vial sealing tray 100 may be placed within a container to protect the vial seals. For example, each vial seal contained within the vial sealing tray 100 is protected from contamination that would make it incompatible with the vial. The container may be formed from a material suitable for sterilization. In one example, the container may include one or more sterilization bags, each sized and shaped to receive the vial sealing tray. Each bag is heat-sealed when the tray is placed within it. For example, the vial sealing tray 100 may be placed within a heat-sealable primary bag. The primary bag is evacuated to remove excess air. In another feature, the vial sealing tray 100 in the primary bag may be further housed in a heat-sealable secondary bag.

[0047] The vial sealing tray 100 comprises a box-like body having a substantially rectangular top surface 112 and a base 114 defining a sterilization flange that projects outward from the periphery of the vial sealing tray. Between the top surface 112 and the base 114, tray walls 116 extend along the periphery of the vial sealing tray. The vial sealing tray top surface 112 may include a chamfered edge 113 along its periphery to facilitate the loading of another vial sealing tray. Similarly, the tray walls 116 may include one or more notches or indentations 115 to facilitate the loading of another vial sealing tray. Additionally, each corner 117 of the vial sealing tray 100 may be cut off to facilitate the placement of the tray into a primary bag during packaging. Cutting off the corners 117 may also facilitate easier stacking of the tray, reducing the amount of raw material required to manufacture the tray and the associated costs.

[0048] The vial array 110 includes a plurality of spaced-apart linear rows 130 of vials. The rows 130 are connected by a connecting network 140 disposed on the top surface 112 of the vial sealing tray 100. Each row 130 includes a plurality of spaced-apart vials 120. Each row 130 further defines a shallow groove 132 connecting each of the spaced-apart vials 120. The groove 132 provides clearance for tweezers or a user's fingers. This clearance facilitates removal of vial seals from the tray, as will be further described below. In some embodiments, the tray walls may include corrugations to increase tray rigidity.

[0049] Each vessel 120 is configured to receive a portion of a vial seal and may be substantially cylindrical. The linear vessel rows 130 are arranged parallel to one another and laterally offset from one another, so that the vessels between adjacent vessel rows are similarly offset from one another. This arrangement minimizes the amount of connecting network 140 disposed between vessel rows 130, thereby reducing the overall footprint of the tray. This reduces the space above the top surface 112 of the vial sealing tray. As a result, this arrangement allows for a higher packing density of the vial seals. Thus, the staggered arrangement of vessels 120 between adjacent vessel rows 130 allows the vessel arrays 110 to occupy less space on the vial sealing tray, allowing the vial sealing tray to be smaller than conventional bulk packaging trays.

[0050] In one embodiment, the container array 110 may include four spaced-apart container rows 130. Two of the rows include eight containers 120, and the remaining two rows include seven containers 120. Each container 120 may be sized and shaped to accommodate one 20 mm bottle seal. Thus, the container array 110 may be configured to removably accommodate and secure up to 30 bottle seals per tray. In other embodiments, the container array 110 may be configured to include more or fewer container rows and containers. While the bottle seal tray is shown as a box-like rectangular tray, in other embodiments, it may have another shape suitable for the application. For example, the tray's periphery may be square, circular, oval, or various other shapes. In some embodiments, the tray for 20 mm bottle seals may be manufactured using a female thermoforming tool.

[0051] Each vessel 120 includes a substantially cylindrical cavity 122. The cavity 122 extends downward from a connecting network 140 located on the tray's upper surface 112 and is defined by a sidewall 128 bounded by a closed lower end 124 of the vessel 120. A circular arc-shaped edge located on the underside of the bottle sealing tray's upper surface 112 forms a support for the bottom of a bottle seal. A narrow, central protruding region 126 extends upward from a central region of the closed lower end 124. Region 126 includes a leading edge 127 configured to provide rigidity and stability to the cavity 122. In one aspect, region 126 and leading edge 127 may be configured to support a bottle seal when the bottle seal is placed generally vertically within the vessel. Lead edge 127 of region 126 may be hemispherical, or dome-shaped, among other shapes. The shallow grooves 132 connecting the vessels 120 within a row 130 provide sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 134, between adjacent vessels within the row. Similarly, sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 135, are also provided at the ends of the row adjacent to the vessels.

[0052] These gripping cavities 134, 135 allow a user to grasp both sides of a vial seal placed in a receptacle 120 with their hands. As a result, a user can easily remove each vial seal from the tray, one at a time, using their fingers or a gripping device. Furthermore, these gripping cavities 134, 135 also allow for spacing between adjacent vial seals within a row of receptacles. As a result, cross-contamination of the vial seals is prevented or minimized. For example, the gripping cavities 134, 135 provide sufficient clearance for a user to grasp both sides of a vial seal and remove it from a receptacle 120 in the vial seal tray. By using the gripping cavities 134, 135, a user is prevented from touching or contaminating other vial seals placed in the vial seal tray, such as those placed in adjacent receptacles 120 in the same row of receptacles 130. This tray configuration allows a user to easily remove individual vial seals from the tray, even in a confined workspace, such as a biosecure cabinet. Within each row 130, adjacent vessels 120 are spaced apart by the width of a groove 132. Meanwhile, between adjacent rows 130, adjacent vessels 120 are spaced apart by the width of a connecting network 140.

[0053] The bottle sealing tray 100 may be formed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid polymeric materials, including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and / or combinations of materials selected to maintain the integrity of the bottle seals during storage. Additionally, materials that are stable to gamma radiation sterilization, such as gamma radiation stable polypropylene, may be utilized to form the bottle sealing tray.

[0054] 5-8 depict another embodiment of a vial sealing tray 200 according to the presently disclosed invention. The vial sealing tray 200 includes a vial array 210 containing a plurality of vials 220. Each vial is configured to removably receive and secure a vial seal. The vial sealing tray 200 may be placed within a container to protect the vial seals from contamination. For example, the container may include one or more sterilization bags sized and shaped to receive the vial sealing tray. The sterilization bags are then heat-sealed closed once the tray is placed within them. The vial sealing tray 200 may be contained within a heat-sealed primary bag with excess air removed by vacuum. As an alternative feature, the vial sealing tray 200 may be contained within a heat-sealed secondary bag within the primary bag.

[0055] The vial sealing tray 200 comprises a box-like body having a substantially rectangular top surface 212 and a base 214 defining a sterilization flange that projects outward from the periphery of the vial sealing tray. Between the top surface 212 and the base 214, tray walls 216 extend along the periphery of the vial sealing tray. The vial sealing tray top surface 212 may include a chamfered edge 213 along its periphery to facilitate stacking of another vial sealing tray. The tray walls 216 may also include one or more notches, or indentations 215, to similarly facilitate stacking of another vial sealing tray. Additionally, each corner 217 of the vial sealing tray 200 may be cut off to facilitate placing the tray into a primary bag during packaging. Cutting off the corners 217 may also reduce the amount of raw material required to manufacture the tray and the associated costs, as well as facilitate stacking of the tray.

[0056] The vial array 210 includes a plurality of spaced-apart linear rows 230 of vials. The rows 230 are connected by a connecting network 240 disposed on the top surface 212 of the vial sealing tray 200. Each row 230 includes a plurality of spaced-apart vials 220. Each row 230 further defines a shallow groove 232 connecting each of the spaced-apart vials 220. The groove 232 provides clearance for tweezers or a user's fingers. This clearance facilitates removal of the vial seals from the tray, as will be described further below. Each vial 220 is configured to receive a portion of a vial seal and may be substantially cylindrical. The rows 230 are spaced apart from one another and are arranged parallel to one another. The connecting network 240 connects the rows 230 on the top surface 212.

[0057] The container array 210 may include four spaced-apart rows 230 of containers. Each row may include ten containers 220. Each container 220 may be sized and shaped to accommodate one 13 mm bottle seal. Thus, the container array 210 may be configured to removably accommodate and secure up to 40 bottle seals per tray. In other embodiments, the container array 210 may be configured to include more or fewer rows and containers. While the bottle seal tray is shown as a box-like rectangular tray, in other embodiments, it may have another shape suitable for the application. For example, the tray's periphery may be square, circular, oval, or various other shapes. In some embodiments, the tray for 13 mm bottle seals may be manufactured using a male thermoforming tool.

[0058] Each vessel 220 includes a substantially cylindrical cavity 222. The cavity 222 extends downward from a connecting network 240 located on the tray's upper surface 212 and is defined by a sidewall 228 bounded by a closed lower end 224 of the vessel 220. A circular arc-shaped edge located on the underside of the bottle sealing tray's upper surface 212 forms a support for the bottom of a bottle seal. A narrow central protruding region 226 extends upward from a central region of the closed lower end 224. Region 226 includes a leading edge 227 configured to provide rigidity and stability to the cavity 222. In one aspect, region 226 and leading edge 227 may be configured to support a bottle seal when the bottle seal is placed generally vertically within the vessel. Leading edge 227 of region 226 may be hemispherical, or dome-shaped, among other shapes. The shallow grooves 232 connecting the vessels 220 within a row 230 provide sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 234, between adjacent vessels within the row. Similarly, sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 235, are also provided at the ends of the row adjacent to the vessels.

[0059] These gripping cavities 234, 235 allow a user to grasp both sides of a vial seal placed in a receptacle 220 with their hands. As a result, a user can easily remove each vial seal from the tray, one at a time, using their fingers or a gripping device. Furthermore, these gripping cavities 234, 235 also allow for spacing between adjacent vial seals within a row of receptacles. As a result, cross-contamination of the vial seals is prevented or minimized. For example, the gripping cavities 234, 235 provide sufficient clearance for a user to grasp both sides of a vial seal and remove it from the receptacle 220 in the vial seal tray. By using the gripping cavities 234, 235, a user is prevented from touching or contaminating other vial seals placed in the vial seal tray, such as those placed in adjacent receptacles 220 in the same row of receptacles 230. This tray configuration allows a user to easily remove individual vial seals from the tray, even in a confined workspace, such as a biosecure cabinet. Within each row of vessels 230, adjacent vessels 220 are spaced apart by the width of the groove 232. Meanwhile, between adjacent rows of vessels 230, adjacent vessels 220 are spaced apart by the width of the connecting network 240.

[0060] The vial sealing tray 200 may be formed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid polymeric materials, including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and / or combinations of materials selected to maintain the integrity of the vial seals during storage. Additionally, materials that are stable to gamma radiation sterilization, such as gamma radiation stable polypropylene, may be utilized to form the vial sealing tray.

[0061] 9-12, a bottle stopper tray 300 according to the presently disclosed invention is shown. The bottle stopper tray 300 includes a receptacle array 310 containing a plurality of receptacles 320. Each receptacle is configured to removably receive and secure a bottle stopper. As with the bottle sealing tray described above, the bottle stopper tray 300 may be placed within a container to protect the bottle stoppers from contamination. Such a container may include one or more sterilization bags of a size and shape suitable for receiving the bottle stopper tray. In one feature, the sterilization bags are heat-sealed closed once the tray is placed within them. As with the bottle sealing tray described above, the bottle stopper tray 300 is formed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid polymeric materials, including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and / or combinations of materials selected to maintain the integrity of the bottle stoppers during storage.

[0062] The bottle stopper tray 300 comprises a box-like body having a substantially rectangular top surface 312 and a base 314 defining a sterilization flange that projects outward from the periphery of the bottle stopper tray. Between the top surface 312 and the base 314, tray walls 316 extend around the periphery of the bottle stopper tray. The bottle stopper tray top surface 312 may include a chamfered edge 313 along its periphery to facilitate stacking of another bottle stopper tray. The tray walls 316 may also include one or more notches or recesses 315 to facilitate stacking of another bottle stopper tray. In some embodiments, the tray walls 316 may extend above the top surface 312 to provide a convenient space for stacking bottle stopper trays. Additionally, each corner 317 of the bottle stopper tray 300 may be cut away to facilitate placing the tray into a primary bag during packaging. The chamfering of the corners 317 may also help reduce the amount of raw material required to manufacture the tray and the associated costs, as well as make the tray easier to stack. The tray walls 316 may further include one or more folds 318. The folds 318 are configured to increase the rigidity of the tray walls, adding stability to the tray.

[0063] The container array 310 includes a plurality of spaced-apart rows 330 of containers. The rows 330 are connected by a connecting network 340 formed on the top surface 312 of the bottle stopper tray 300. Each row 330 includes a plurality of spaced-apart containers 320. Each row 330 further defines a shallow groove 332 connecting the plurality of containers 320. Each container 320 is configured to receive a portion of a bottle stopper and is substantially cylindrical. The rows 330 are linear and spaced apart parallel to one another. The connecting network 340 on the top surface 312 thereby connects the rows 330 of containers.

[0064] The container array 310 may include five spaced-apart rows 330, each row containing six containers 320. Each container 320 may be sized and shaped to accommodate 20 mm bottle stoppers. Thus, the container array 310 may be configured to removably accommodate and secure up to 30 bottle stoppers per tray. In other embodiments, the container array 310 may be configured to include a greater or lesser number of rows and containers. While the bottle stopper tray is shown as a box-like rectangular tray, other embodiments may have other shapes suitable for the application. For example, the tray may have a square, circular, oval, or various other shapes around its periphery.

[0065] Each vessel 320 includes a substantially cylindrical cavity 322. The cavity 322 extends downward from a connecting network 340 located on the tray's upper surface 312 and is defined by a sidewall 328 bounded by a closed bottom end 324 of the vessel 320. In one feature, the cavity 322 may include a first or top portion and a second or bottom portion. The top portion has a larger diameter than the bottom portion, allowing a bottle stopper to be secured within the top portion while the bottom portion remains empty. In one embodiment, a central, narrow protruding region extends upward from a central region of the closed bottom end 324. This protruding region may include a tip configured to provide rigidity and stability to the cavity. The protruding region also supports the bottle stopper when it is placed within the vessel. The tip of the protruding region may be hemispherical or dome-shaped, among other shapes. Additionally, each vessel 320 includes a retainer or bumper 329 projecting into the interior of the cavity 322. The bumper 329 is configured to removably secure a portion of the bottle stopper within the cavity 322 .

[0066] Thus, each buffer 329 functions as a retainer located at the top of each container. The buffer expands circumferentially within the container cavity, narrowing the container's opening and forming a neck, thereby securing the bottle stopper. For example, a bottle stopper may be snap-fit ​​into a container by being pushed into the container until it catches on the buffer. Furthermore, each container may include more than one buffer 329. For example, each container may include two buffers, diametrically opposed. These buffers provide a positive locking mechanism that restricts axial movement of a bottle stopper contained within the container. This locking mechanism securely holds the bottle stopper in a generally vertically aligned position within the container, while also allowing a user to pull the bottle stopper with enough force to disengage it from the buffer and remove it from the container.

[0067] The shallow grooves 332 connecting each vessel 320 in a row 330 serve two functions: first, to provide sufficient clearance or gripping space to facilitate manual removal of individual bottle stoppers from each vessel in the bottle stopper tray; and second, to allow steam sterilization of any of the bottle stoppers located within the bottle stopper tray.

[0068] In particular, grooves 332 provide sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 334, between adjacent vessels within a row, as well as sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 335, at the ends of adjacent vessels in the row. For example, gripping gaps 334, 335 allow a consumer to grasp both sides of bottle stoppers positioned in vessel 320 with their hands. As a result, the consumer can easily remove each bottle stopper, one at a time, from the tray using their fingers or a gripping device. Furthermore, these gripping gaps 334, 335 also allow for spacing between adjacent bottle stoppers within a row, thereby preventing or minimizing cross-contamination of bottle stoppers.

[0069] For example, the gripping cavities 334, 335 provide sufficient clearance for a user to grasp both sides of a single bottle stopper and remove it from a receptacle 320 in the bottle stopper tray. By utilizing the gripping cavities 334, 335, a user is prevented from touching or contaminating other bottle stoppers in the bottle stopper tray, such as those in adjacent receptacles 320 in the same receptacle row 330. This tray configuration allows users to easily remove individual bottle stoppers from the tray, even in confined workspaces such as biosecure cabinets. Adjacent receptacles 320 within each receptacle row 330 are spaced apart by the width of the groove 332. However, adjacent receptacles 320 between adjacent receptacle rows 330 are separated by the width of the connecting network 340.

[0070] Additionally, the shallow grooves 332 allow for steam sterilization of bottle stoppers disposed in the bottle stopper tray. Specifically, sterilizing steam is introduced into each groove 332 so that it can flow in contact with each bottle stopper (e.g., flow over and around the stopper) as it travels along the length of each groove. The empty second or bottom portion of the vessels assists the sterilizing steam in flowing along the groove and in contacting the underside of the bottle stoppers secured within the first or top portion of the vessel. The bottle stopper tray 300 also includes one or more reinforcing ribs 350 configured to provide stability to the tray. Each reinforcing rib 350 is disposed on the top surface 312 of the bottle stopper tray and extends approximately perpendicular to the rows of vessels 330. This arrangement allows each reinforcing rib 350 to add rigidity to the top surface of the bottle stopper tray and prevent undesirable sagging of the tray. For example, the bottle stopper tray 300 may include five reinforcing ribs 350. Each reinforcing rib 350 is located between adjacent vessels in one vessel row and extends perpendicularly thereto across all five vessel rows.

[0071] Referring to Figures 13-16, another embodiment of a bottle stopper tray 400 is shown. The bottle stopper tray 400 shares various features with the previously described bottle stopper tray 300. In particular, the bottle stopper tray 400 includes a container array 410, which includes a plurality of containers 420. For example, the container array 410 of the bottle stopper tray 400 may include seven spaced-apart container rows 430. Five of the container rows 430 include six containers 420 each, and the remaining two include five containers 420 each. Each container 420 may be sized and shaped to accommodate a single 13mm bottle stopper. Thus, the container array 410 may be configured to removably accommodate and secure up to 40 bottle stoppers per tray. In other embodiments, the container array 410 may be configured to include a greater or lesser number of container rows and containers. Bottle stopper tray 400 may further include a plurality of reinforcing ribs 450, e.g., seven reinforcing ribs, each rib positioned perpendicular to the top surface of the tray, adjacent to and spaced apart from each vessel in a row.

[0072] Each vessel 420 in the vessel array 410 is configured to removably receive and secure a single bottle stopper. The bottle stopper tray 400 may be placed in a container that protects the bottle stoppers from contamination. Such a container may include one or more sterilization bags sized and shaped to receive the bottle stopper tray. In one feature, the sterilization bags may be heat sealed once the bottle stopper tray is received therein. The bottle stopper tray 400 is formed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid polymeric materials, including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and / or combinations of materials selected to maintain the integrity of the bottle stoppers during storage.

[0073] The bottle stopper tray 400 comprises a box-like body having a substantially rectangular top surface 412 and a base 414 defining a sterilization flange that projects outward from the periphery of the bottle stopper tray. Between the top surface 412 and the base 414, tray walls 416 extend along the periphery of the bottle stopper tray. The bottle stopper tray top surface 412 may include a chamfered edge 413 along its periphery to facilitate the loading of another bottle stopper tray. The tray walls 416 may also include one or more notches or recesses 415 to facilitate the loading of another bottle stopper tray. In some embodiments, the tray walls 416 may extend above the top surface 412 to form a space convenient for the loading of another bottle stopper tray. Additionally, each corner 417 of the bottle stopper tray 400 may be cut away to facilitate the placement of the tray within a primary bag during packaging. The trimming of the corners 217 may also help reduce the amount of raw material required to manufacture the tray and the associated costs, as well as make the tray easier to stack. Additionally, the tray walls 416 may include one or more folds 418 configured to increase the rigidity thereof, thereby increasing the stability of the tray.

[0074] The container array 410 includes a plurality of spaced-apart linear rows 430 of containers. The rows 430 are connected by a connecting network 440 formed on the top surface 412 of the bottle stopper tray 400. Each row 430 includes a plurality of spaced-apart containers 420. Each row 430 further defines a shallow groove 432 connecting each of the spaced-apart containers 420. Each container 420 is configured to receive a portion of a bottle stopper and may be substantially cylindrical. The linear rows 430 are spaced apart and are connected to one another by the connecting network 440 on the top surface 412.

[0075] Each vessel 420 includes a generally cylindrical cavity 422. The cavity 422 extends downward from a connecting network 440 located on the tray's upper surface 412 and is defined by a sidewall 428 bounded by a closed bottom end 424 of the vessel 420. In one feature, the cavity 422 may include a first or top portion and a second or bottom portion. The top portion has a larger diameter than the bottom portion. In one feature, a central, narrow protruding region may extend upward from a central region of the closed bottom end 424. This protruding region may include a tip configured to provide rigidity and stability to the tray. The protruding region may also support the bottle stoppers when they are placed within the vessel. The tip of the protruding region may be hemispherical or dome-shaped, among other shapes. Additionally, each vessel 420 includes a retainer or bumper 429 projecting into the interior of the cavity 422. The bumper 429 is configured to removably secure a portion of the bottle stopper within the cavity 422.

[0076] Each bumper 429 functions as a retaining feature located at the top of each container. The bumper extends circumferentially within the container cavity, narrowing the container's opening and forming a neck for securing a bottle stopper. For example, a bottle stopper may be pushed into the container until it catches on the bumper, creating a snap-fit ​​fit. Furthermore, each container may include more than one bumper 429. For example, each container may include two bumpers, each diametrically opposed. These bumpers provide a positive locking mechanism that restricts axial movement of a bottle stopper contained within the container. This locking mechanism securely holds the bottle stopper in a generally vertically aligned position within the container, while also allowing a user to pull the bottle stopper with enough force to disengage it from the bumper and remove it from the container.

[0077] The shallow grooves 432 connecting each vessel 420 in a row 430 serve two functions: first, to provide sufficient clearance or gripping gaps to facilitate manual removal of individual bottle stoppers from each vessel in the bottle stopper tray; and second, to allow steam sterilization of any bottle stopper placed in the bottle stopper tray.

[0078] In particular, grooves 432 provide sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 434, between adjacent vessels within a row, as well as sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 435, at the edge of the row adjacent to a vessel. For example, gripping gaps 434, 435 allow a consumer to grasp both sides of bottle stoppers positioned on vessel 420 with their hands. As a result, the consumer can easily remove each bottle stopper, one at a time, from the tray using their fingers or a gripping device. Furthermore, these gripping gaps 434, 435 also allow for spacing between adjacent bottle stoppers within a row, thereby preventing or minimizing cross-contamination of bottle stoppers.

[0079] For example, the gripping cavities 434, 435 provide sufficient clearance for a user to grasp both sides of a single bottle stopper and remove it from a receptacle 420 in the bottle stopper tray. By utilizing the gripping cavities 434, 435, a user is prevented from touching or contaminating other bottle stoppers in the bottle stopper tray, such as those in adjacent receptacles 420 in the same receptacle row 430. This tray configuration allows users to easily remove individual bottle stoppers from the tray, even in confined workspaces such as biosecure cabinets. Adjacent receptacles 420 within each receptacle row 430 are spaced apart by the width of the groove 432. However, adjacent receptacles 420 between adjacent receptacle rows 430 are separated by the width of the connecting network 440.

[0080] Additionally, the shallow grooves 432 allow for steam sterilization of bottle stoppers disposed in the bottle stopper tray. Specifically, as sterilizing steam is introduced into each groove 432, the steam contacts each bottle stopper (e.g., flows over and around the bottle stopper) as it travels along each groove. The bottle stopper tray 400 also includes one or more reinforcing ribs 450 configured to provide stability to the tray. Each reinforcing rib 450 is disposed on the top surface 412 of the bottle stopper tray and extends across the top surface approximately perpendicular to the rows of containers 430. This arrangement allows each reinforcing rib 450 to add rigidity to the top surface of the tray and prevent undesirable flexing of the tray. For example, the bottle stopper tray 400 may include five reinforcing ribs 450. Each reinforcing rib 450 is disposed between adjacent containers in one row and extends perpendicularly across all five rows of containers.

[0081] 17-21, another embodiment of a bottle stopper tray 400a is shown. The bottle stopper tray 400a shares various features with the previously described bottle stopper tray 400. A bottle stopper tray lid or cover 460 is removably attached to the bottle stopper tray 400a and configured to secure and protect bottle stoppers placed in the bottle stopper tray 400a. The bottle stopper tray 400a includes a vessel array 410a, which includes a plurality of vessels 420a. For example, the vessel array 410a of the bottle stopper tray 400a may include seven spaced-apart vessel rows 430a, five of which include six vessels each and two of which include five vessels 420a each. Each vessel 420a may be sized and shaped to accommodate one 13mm bottle stopper. Thus, the container array 410a may be configured to removably receive and secure up to 40 bottle stoppers per tray. In other embodiments, the container array 410a may be configured to include a greater or lesser number of rows and containers. The bottle stopper tray 400a may further include a plurality of reinforcing ribs 450a, e.g., seven reinforcing ribs, each positioned perpendicular to the top surface of the tray, adjacent to and spaced from each container in a row.

[0082] Each receptacle 420a in the receptacle array 410a is configured to removably receive a single bottle stopper. The bottle stopper tray 400a includes a box-like body having a substantially rectangular top surface 412a and a base 414a that defines a stabilizing flange that projects outward from the periphery of the bottle stopper tray. A tray wall 416a extends around the periphery of the bottle stopper tray between the top surface 412a and the base 414a. The interior of the tray wall 416 may include one or more notches or recesses 415a for receiving protrusions 462a on the lids 460. In some embodiments, the tray wall 416a may extend above the top surface 412a to provide a convenient space for stacking the lids 460 on top of the bottle stopper tray.

[0083] The container array 410a includes a plurality of linear rows of containers 430a, spaced apart from one another. The rows 430a are connected by a connecting network 440a formed on the top surface 412a of the bottle stopper tray 400a. Each row 430a includes a plurality of spaced apart containers 420a. Each row 430a further defines a shallow groove 432a connecting each of the spaced apart containers 420a. Each container 420a is configured to receive a portion of a bottle stopper and may be substantially cylindrical. The linear rows 430a are spaced apart from one another and are connected by the connecting network 440a on the top surface 412a.

[0084] Each vessel 420a includes a generally cylindrical cavity 422a. The cavity 422a extends downwardly from a connecting network 440a located on the upper surface 412a of the tray and is defined by a sidewall 428a bounded by a closed lower end 424a of the vessel 420a. In one feature, the cavity 422a may include a first or top portion and a second or bottom portion. The diameter of the top portion is larger than the diameter of the bottom portion. This allows a bottle stopper to be secured within the first or top portion while the second or bottom portion remains empty.

[0085] The shallow grooves 432a connecting each vessel 420a in a row 430a serve two functions: first, to provide sufficient clearance or gripping gaps to facilitate manual removal of individual bottle stoppers from each vessel in the bottle stopper tray; and second, to allow steam sterilization of any bottle stopper placed in the bottle stopper tray.

[0086] In particular, grooves 432a provide sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 434a, between adjacent vessels within a row, as well as sufficient clearance, or gripping gaps 435a, at the ends of adjacent vessels in the row. For example, gripping gaps 434a, 435a allow a consumer to grasp both sides of a bottle stopper positioned on vessel 420a with their hands. As a result, the consumer can easily remove each bottle stopper, one at a time, from the tray using their fingers or a gripping device. Furthermore, these gripping gaps 434a, 435a also allow for spacing between adjacent bottle stoppers within a row, thereby preventing or minimizing cross-contamination of bottle stoppers.

[0087] For example, the gripping cavities 434a, 435a provide sufficient clearance for a user to grasp both sides of a single bottle stopper and remove it from the container 420a in the bottle stopper tray. This prevents the user from touching or contaminating other bottle stoppers in the bottle stopper tray, such as those in adjacent containers 420a in the same container row 430a. This tray configuration allows users to easily remove individual bottle stoppers from the tray, even in confined workspaces such as biosecure cabinets. Adjacent containers 420a within each container row 430a are spaced apart by the width of the shallow grooves 432a. Meanwhile, adjacent containers 420a between adjacent container rows 430a are separated by the width of the connecting network 440a. Furthermore, the shallow grooves 432a allow for steam sterilization of bottle stoppers placed in the bottle stopper tray. In particular, sterilizing steam is introduced into each groove 432a so that it can flow into contact with each bottle stopper (e.g., by flowing over and around each bottle stopper) as it travels along each groove. The empty second or bottom portion of the vessel aids in the flow of sterilizing steam along the grooves and in contacting the undersides of the bottle stoppers secured within the first or top portion of the vessel.

[0088] The bottle stopper tray 400a also includes one or more reinforcing ribs 450a configured to provide stability to the tray. Each reinforcing rib 450a is disposed on the top surface 412a of the bottle stopper tray and extends across the top surface substantially perpendicular to the rows of containers 430a. This arrangement allows each reinforcing rib 450a to add rigidity to the top surface of the bottle stopper tray and prevent undesirable flexing of the tray. For example, the bottle stopper tray 400a may include five reinforcing ribs 450a. Each reinforcing rib 450a is disposed between adjacent containers in one row and extends perpendicular to all five rows of containers.

[0089] The bottle stopper tray lid 460 is configured to be removably attached to the bottle stopper tray 400a and to secure and protect the bottle stoppers disposed in each receptacle 420a of the tray. The lid 460 includes a base 461, which includes a sidewall 462 extending around its periphery. One or more locking projections 462a extend from a portion of the sidewall 462 and fit into notches or recesses 415a in the interior of the tray wall 416a to removably secure the lid to the tray. For example, the connection between the locking projections 462a and the notches 415a may be an interference fit. A lid flange 464 projects outward from the sidewall 462 around the lid's periphery. The flange 464 includes a widened gripping portion 464a to facilitate a user's removal of the lid from the tray.

[0090] A plurality of retention areas 466 extend from the bottom surface of the lid base 461. Each retention area corresponds to one of the receptacles 420a of the bottle stopper tray 400a. The size and shape of each retention area 466 are such that the retention area 466 fits within the receptacle 420a when the lid is attached to the tray. Additionally, each retention area 466 includes a tip 467. The tip 467 is configured to properly retain a bottle stopper within the receptacle 420a of the tray when the lid is attached to the tray. Each tip 467 may be substantially flat, thereby maximizing the surface area that contacts each bottle stopper.

[0091] The lid base 461 may include one or more reinforcing ribs 468 to provide stability to the lid. Each reinforcing rib 468 may protrude from the bottom surface of the lid base. Moreover, each reinforcing rib 468 may extend across the lid base substantially perpendicular to the vessel row 430a. For example, the reinforcing ribs 468 may extend in the same direction as the tray reinforcing ribs 450a. This arrangement allows each lid reinforcing rib 468 to add rigidity to the lid base and prevent undesirable flexing thereof. In some embodiments, for example, the tray lid may include the same number of reinforcing ribs 468 as the tray reinforcing ribs 450a.

[0092] After the bottle stopper tray 400a is fitted with its lid 460, the tray and lid may be stored in a single container, such as a sterilization bag. In one feature, the sterilization bag may be heat sealed once the tray and lid combination is contained therein. Additionally, both the bottle stopper tray 400a and its lid 460 are formed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid polymeric materials, including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and / or combinations of materials selected to maintain the integrity of the bottle stoppers during storage.

[0093] In further embodiments, a kit may be provided that includes various combinations of the above-described vial seal trays and vial stopper trays, along with vial trays that accommodate a predetermined number of vials. A group of such trays may form a compact kit suitable for, for example, biological filling. Such a kit allows a user to easily remove one vial seal and one vial stopper from each tray while working in a confined workspace, such as a biosecure cabinet or a hooded laboratory bench. This kit configuration allows a user to assemble the seal and stopper onto each vial much more easily than with traditional packaging methods for vial seals and / or vial stoppers. Furthermore, because such a kit allows a user to individually remove each component from each tray, the risk of contamination of the vial seals and stoppers is significantly eliminated or minimized. In particular, various bottle seal trays, bottle stopper trays, and bottle trays are configured to hold bottle seals, bottle stoppers, and bottles at spaced intervals, similar to a rack, so that the biosecure cabinet operator can conveniently present each seal and stopper to the operator in a usable state (i.e., to easily grasp, carry, and place on the bottle to which it is to be attached). For example, bottle seals may be oriented with their soft bottoms facing up, and bottle stoppers may be oriented with their upper flanges facing up. In comparison, bottle closures dispensed from conventional bulk packages onto a work surface may not be oriented correctly; some may be upside down or sideways.

[0094] Referring to Figures 22-25, a bottle tray embodiment 500 is shown. The bottle tray 500 includes a generally box-shaped base 510 including a bottom wall 512 and sidewalls 514 extending around the periphery of the base. The upper surface of the sidewalls 514 defines a generally flat flange 516 that extends laterally from the sidewalls. The bottom wall 512 defines a bottle-retaining array 518 that includes a plurality of vessels 520. Each vessel 520 is configured to removably receive and secure a single bottle. As a result, the bottle-retaining array 518 can hold a plurality of bottles 600. The bottle-retaining array 518 includes a plurality of spaced-apart, linear rows 530 of vessels connected by a network of connections 540. Each row 530 includes a plurality of spaced-apart vessels 520. Each vessel row 530 further defines a channel 532 that connects to each of the plurality of spaced vessels 520 .

[0095] Each vessel 520 is configured to receive the top of a bottle. In other words, a bottle is inserted upside down into each vessel. In one embodiment, the bottle-retaining array 518 may have five spaced-apart rows of vessels 520, with each row containing five spaced-apart vessels 520. The size and shape of each vessel 520 may be the same as the size and shape of the bottles it contains. Thus, the bottle-retaining array 518 may be configured to removably receive and secure up to 25 bottles per tray. In other embodiments, the bottle-retaining array 518 may be configured to include more or fewer rows and vessels. While the bottle tray is shown as a box-like rectangular tray, in other embodiments, it may have another shape suitable for the application. For example, the tray's periphery may be rectangular, circular, or oval, among other shapes.

[0096] Each vessel 520 includes a generally cylindrical cavity 522. Cavity 522 is defined by a connecting network 540, which forms a closed bottom end 524 of vessel 520. A centrally located protruding region 526, forming a center post, extends upward from a central region of closed bottom end 524. Protruding region 526 is configured to support a bottle when the bottle is placed in vessel 520 in a generally upright orientation. Protruding region 526 may be generally cross-shaped, among other shapes. The cross section of each vessel is configured to removably retain and secure a single bottle. In some embodiments, this configuration may be achieved by a clearance fit, in which case each center post helps position the bottle. Grooves 532 connecting each vessel 520 in each row of vessels provide sufficient clearance between adjacent vessels in that row. In other embodiments, the bottles may be secured by an interference fit. In yet other embodiments, the center post may be omitted.

[0097] The vial tray 500 may further include a lid or cover 550. The lid 550 includes a plurality of downwardly facing recesses 554. The recesses 554 are spaced apart from one another at the same spacing as the vials in the vial-retaining array 518. Each recess 554 in the lid is positioned to hold the bottom of each vial as the vials are inverted in each receptacle 520 of the vial tray. The vial tray lid 550 is shaped and sized to fit within the opening in the base 510, thereby closing the base and sealing the vials therein.

[0098] Similar to the bottle sealing tray and bottle stopper tray described above, the bottle tray 500 is formed from one or more rigid or semi-rigid polymeric materials, including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and / or combinations of materials selected to maintain the integrity of the bottles during storage. Additionally, materials that are stable to gamma radiation sterilization, such as gamma radiation stable polypropylene, may be utilized to form the bottle tray.

[0099] 26-30 illustrate another embodiment of a bottle tray 500a. The bottle tray 500a includes a base tray 510a, which includes a generally planar flange 516a extending laterally from its periphery. The base tray 510a defines a bottle-retaining array 518a including a plurality of vessels 520a. Each vessel 520a is configured to removably receive and secure a single bottle 600. As a result, the bottle-retaining array 518a can hold multiple bottles 600. The bottle-retaining array 518a includes a plurality of spaced-apart, linear rows 530a connected by a connecting network 540a. Each row 530a includes a plurality of spaced-apart vessels 520a. Each row 530a further defines a channel 532a connecting each of the spaced-apart vessels 520a.

[0100] Each vessel 520a is configured to receive the top of a bottle; that is, a bottle is inserted upside down into each vessel 520a. In one embodiment, the bottle-retaining array 518a may include five spaced-apart rows 530a of vessels, with each row containing five spaced-apart vessels 520a. The size and shape of each vessel 520a may be the same as the size and shape of the bottles it contains. Thus, the bottle-retaining array 518a may be configured to removably receive and secure up to 25 bottles per tray. In other embodiments, the bottle-retaining array 518a may be configured to include more or fewer vessel rows and vessels.

[0101] Each vessel 520a includes a generally cylindrical cavity 522a. Cavity 522a is defined by a connecting network 540a, which forms a closed bottom end 524a of vessel 520a. The bottom of cavity 522a may be flat to ensure sufficient contact area with the top of the vial. In some embodiments, each vessel may be configured to removably receive and secure a single vial via an interference fit. Grooves 532a connecting each vessel 520a within a row of vessels 530a provide sufficient clearance between adjacent vessels within the row.

[0102] The vial tray 500a may also include a lid or cover 550a. In some embodiments, the lid 550a is configured to be removably attached to the base tray 510a, for example, by a snap fit. In other embodiments, a vacuum bag may hold the tray and lid together. Within the vacuum bag, a dividing wall extending around the edge of the lid controls the relative position of the tray and lid laterally (i.e., in the x and y directions). (There is no interference in the z direction, since the lid is free to be removed from the tray.) The dividing wall is terminated at the center of each edge by a notch. The vial tray lid 550a further includes multiple receptacles 560a, each corresponding to a receptacle 520a of the base tray 510a. Each receptacle 560a includes a generally cylindrical cavity 562a defined by a connecting network 564a and closed at a top end 566. The top end 566a includes a flat surface to ensure sufficient contact area with the bottom of the vial. In one embodiment, each lid receptacle is configured to removably receive and secure a single bottle via an interference fit. Grooves 568a connecting each lid receptacle 560a provide sufficient clearance between adjacent bottles in the row. Thus, the lid can be attached to base tray 510a such that, with the top of the bottle resting in receptacle 520a of base tray 510a, the bottom of the bottle rests in receptacle 560a of lid 550a. The closed top edge 566a of the lid receptacle contacts the bottom of each bottle, securing it in place. As a result, when the jar tray is closed, the bottles can be oriented in different ways, such as with the tops facing up or down. This also allows the jar tray or its lids to be removed without contacting each other.

[0103] While particular embodiments of the bottle sealing tray, bottle stopper tray, bottle tray, and kits incorporating the same have been described with particular consideration given to certain aspects of the invention disclosed herein, the invention is not limited to those disclosed. Further variations and modifications to the trays and kits described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Moreover, since the many features and advantages of the invention disclosed herein are apparent from the detailed description herein, it is the intent of the appended claims to encompass all such features and advantages of the invention as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A spaced apart array of vessels each configured to removably secure a bottle seal thereto. a main body having an upper surface forming a vessel arrangement including a plurality of vessels; a connection network installed on the top surface and connecting the plurality of vessels; A bottle sealing tray comprising: Each vessel is a cavity extending downwardly from the upper surface and configured to receive a portion of the bottle seal; The closed bottom edge It forms the Each row of vessels has: A groove extending through a number of spaced vessels and providing a convenient gap on each side of each vessel for grasping the bottle seals held by each vessel. is installed A tray for sealing bottles.

2. 2. The bottle sealing tray of claim 1, wherein the rows of containers are parallel to one another and offset laterally from one another so that the positions of the containers in adjacent rows are offset from one another.

3. a base forming a flange projecting outward from the periphery of said bottle sealing tray; The bottle sealing tray of claim 1 , comprising:

4. a tray wall extending around the periphery of the bottle sealing tray between the top surface and the base; The bottle sealing tray of claim 3 further comprising:

5. 5. The bottle sealing tray of claim 1, wherein the top surface includes a chamfered edge along the periphery of the bottle sealing tray.

6. A row of spaced apart vessels each configured to removably secure a bottle stopper to the vessel. a main body having an upper surface forming a vessel arrangement including a plurality of vessels; a connection network installed on the top surface and connecting the plurality of vessels; A bottle stopper tray comprising: Each vessel is a cavity extending downwardly from the upper surface and configured to receive a portion of the bottle stopper; The closed bottom edge It forms the Each row of vessels has: A groove extending through spaced vessels and providing a convenient gap on each side for grasping the bottle stoppers held in each vessel. is installed A tray for bottle stoppers.

7. Each vessel, a bumper configured to removably secure a portion of the bottle stopper within the cavity; 7. The bottle stopper tray of claim 6, comprising:

8. 8. A tray for bottle stoppers according to claim 7, wherein said buffer portion extends from the inner wall of the container in an inward circumferential direction to narrow the opening of said cavity.

9. 9. The bottle stopper tray of claim 6, wherein the groove is further configured to allow steam to flow along each row of containers to sterilize each bottle stopper disposed in the row.

10. a reinforcing rib disposed on the upper surface and extending perpendicular to the groove for increasing the rigidity of the upper surface; The bottle stopper tray according to any one of claims 6 to 8, further comprising:

11. a base forming a flange projecting outward from the periphery of said bottle stopper tray; 9. The bottle stopper tray according to claim 6, further comprising:

12. a tray wall extending around the periphery of the bottle stopper tray between the top surface and the base; 12. The bottle stopper tray of claim 11, further comprising:

13. 9. A bottle stopper tray according to any one of claims 6 to 8, including a chamfered edge along the periphery of the bottle stopper tray.

14. 9. The bottle stopper tray of claim 6, further comprising a lid configured to be removably attached to the body.

15. The lid is a base including a sidewall extending around a periphery thereof; a locking projection extending from a portion of the side wall and adapted to be hooked to a portion of the main body so as to form a pair; 15. The bottle stopper tray of claim 14, comprising:

16. The lid is Bottom surface with multiple protruding holding areas Including, Each holding area is sized and shaped to fit within one of the containers when the lid is attached to the bottle stopper tray.

15. The bottle stopper tray according to claim 14.

Images