Laser sealing of medical device packaging

Abstract

Devices, methods, and / or systems for sealing medical device packaging are described herein. For example, a method, of forming a seal in packaging can include disposing a medical device between a first packaging member and a second packaging member and sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member by causing an energy source to emit energy, hi some cases, a mask is placed within proximity to the packaging and energy travels through a window in the mask to reach the packaging. Further, in some cases, an adhesive is placed between the first and second packaging members and an energy source emits energy to activate the adhesive to adhere to at least one of the first or second packaging members.

Description

Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 LASER SEALING OF MEDICAL DEVICE PACKAGING RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 689,065, filed on August 30, 2024, the complete disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of medical device packaging. Description of Related Art

[0003] Medical devices are often packaged in containers to protect the medical devices and / or maintain a sterilized state of the medical devices during manufacturing, distribution, or at other times. For example, a medical device can be sealed in packaging to prevent the medical device from being contaminated and / or damaged while being moved from one location to another. In some cases, a sealing system is designed for a specific packaging application, causing a separate sealing system to be purchased when a different packaging application is desired. SUMMARY

[0004] Described herein are devices, methods, and / or systems for sealing medical device packaging. For example, a method of forming a seal in packaging can include disposing a medical device between a first packaging member and a second packaging member and sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member by causing an energy source to emit energy. In some cases, a mask is placed within proximity to the packaging and energy travels through a window in the mask to reach the packaging. Further, in some cases, an adhesive is placed between the first and second packaging members and an energy source emits energy to activate the adhesive to adhere to at least one of the first or second packaging members.

[0005] For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and / or features may be described. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular example. Thus, the disclosed examples can be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Various examples are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes. In addition, various features of different disclosed examples can be combined to form additional examples, which are part of this disclosure. Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be reused to indicate correspondence between reference elements.

[0007] Figure 1 illustrates a package sealing system configured to seal a medical device within medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0008] Figure 2 illustrates an example implementation of sealing medical device packaging with a mask that is configured to permit passage of energy through a particular portion of the mask in accordance with one or more examples.

[0009] Figure 3 illustrates an example implementation of sealing packaging with a medium / substance that is configured to permit passage of energy in accordance with one or more examples.

[0010] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of medical device packaging with a mask placed thereon that includes a window segment configured to facilitate sealing of a side of the medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0011] Figure 5 illustrates a top view of medical device packaging with a mask placed thereon that includes multiple window segments configured to facilitate sealing of multiple sides of the medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0012] Figure 6 illustrates an example of sealing medical device packaging with multiple lasers at the same time in accordance with one or more examples.

[0013] Figure 7 illustrates an example of cutting a portion of medical device packaging using a sealing system in accordance with one or more examples.

[0014] Figure 8 illustrates an example of concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) sealing and cutting medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0015] Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of medical device packaging that includes an adhesive to seal sealing packaging members to each other, wherein the adhesive extends from one end to the other of the medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0016] Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of medical device packaging that includes an adhesive to seal packaging members to each other, wherein the adhesive extends around a perimeter of the medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0017] Figure 11 illustrates various types of medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0018] Figure 12 illustrates various types of seals for medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0019] Figure 13 illustrates gas-permeable seals that can be implemented for medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples.

[0020] Figure 14 illustrates example details of a package sealing system in accordance with one or more examples.

[0021] Figure 15 illustrates a flow diagram of a process for sealing a first packaging member to a second packaging member in accordance with one or more examples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Headings may be provided herein are for convenience and do not necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the subject matter.

[0023] Although certain examples are disclosed below, the subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed examples to other alternative examples and / or uses and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims that can arise here from is not limited by any of the examples described herein. In any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process can be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular sequence. Various operations can be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that can be helpful in understanding certain examples; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order dependent. Additionally, the structures, systems, and / or devices described herein can be embodied as integrated components or as separate components. For purposes of comparing various examples, certain aspects of these examples are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any particular example. Thus, for example, various examples can be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as can also be taught or suggested herein.

[0024] Certain reference numbers are re-used across different figures of the figure set of the present disclosure as a matter of convenience for devices, components, systems, features, and / or modules having features that can be similar in one or more respects. However, with respect to any of the examples disclosed herein, re-use of common reference numbers in the drawings does not necessarily indicate that such features, devices, components, or modules are identical or similar. Rather, one having ordinary skill in the art can be informed by context with respect to the degree to which usage of common reference numbers can imply similarity between referenced subject matter. Use of a particular reference number in the context of the descriptionAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 of a particular figure can relate to the identified device, component, aspect, feature, module, or system in that particular figure, and not necessarily to any devices, components, aspects, features, modules, or systems identified by the same reference number in another figure. Furthermore, aspects of separate figures identified with common reference numbers can be interpreted to share characteristics or to be entirely independent of one another.

[0025] Where an alphanumeric reference identifier is used that comprises a numeric portion and an alphabetic portion (e.g., ‘10a,’ ‘10’ is the numeric portion and ‘a’ is the alphabetic portion), references in the written description to the numeric portion (e.g., ‘10’) can refer to any feature identified in the figures using such numeric portion (e.g., ‘10a,’ ‘10b,’ ‘10c,’ etc.), even where such features are identified with reference identifiers that concatenate the numeric portion thereof with one or more alphabetic characters (e.g., ‘a,’ ‘b,’ ‘c,’ etc.). That is, a reference in the present disclosure to a feature ‘10’ can be refer to either an identified feature ‘10a’ in a particular figure of the present disclosure or to an identifier ‘10’ or ‘10b’ in the same figure or another figure, as an example.

[0026] Although certain spatially relative terms, such as “outer,” “inner,” “upper,” “lower,” “below,” “above,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” and similar terms, are used herein to describe a spatial relationship of one device / element or anatomical structure to another device / element or anatomical structure, these terms are used herein for ease of description to describe the positional relationship between element(s) / structures(s), as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are generally intended to encompass different orientations of the element(s) / structures(s), in use or operation, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings. For example, an element / structure described as “above” another element / structure can represent a position that is below or beside such other element / structure with respect to alternate orientations of the subject patient or element / structure, and vice-versa. Spatially relative terms, including those listed above, can be relative to a respective illustrated orientation of a referenced figure.

[0027] In examples, the present disclosure relates to devices, methods, and / or systems for sealing medical devices within packaging using a laser. For instance, a medical device can be placed within a cavity formed by multiple packaging members and the packaging member can be sealed together using a laser. In some cases, the packaging members are sealed together with a weld seal, wherein the laser provides sufficient energy to heat the packaging members and bond them together. Moreover, in some cases, a peelable seal is implemented. Further, in some cases, an adhesive is placed between the packaging members and the laser activates the adhesive to attach the packaging members. To illustrate, an ultraviolet-activatedAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 adhesive can be placed between a first packaging member and a second packaging member and activated to adhere to another element when energy is provided having a particular characteristic, such as a certain wavelength (e.g., ultraviolet wavelength), certain energy / intensity, etc. This can cause the adhesive to bond to the first packaging member and / or the second packaging member. In some instances, the first packaging member can be configured to allow the energy to pass therethrough (e.g., a transparent or semi-transparent material) and reach the adhesive layer located therein. In examples, a mask is placed in proximity to the packaging, wherein the mask includes a window to permit energy to pass therethrough. The laser can emit energy towards the packaging device through the window to form a seal that corresponds to the shape / form of the window in the mask. The mask can limit the laser energy to contact the packaging through the window and prevent the laser energy from reaching undesired areas on the packaging.

[0028] In examples, a sealing system is configured to emit energy according to a predetermined pattern (e.g., shape, form, etc.), wherein the pattern can be configurable for different packaging applications. For instance, the sealing system can be configured / programed to create a first seal pattern and reconfigured / programed to create a second seal pattern. By implementing a laser in various examples herein, such as a configurable / programable sealing system, the techniques can provide sealing techniques that are adaptable to different implementations / applications of packaging. Further, in examples, by implementing a laser, a system can emit energy to a controlled area on packaging and avoid applying heat to certain areas of the packaging, which can occur in some cases where other energy sources are used.

[0029] In examples, any of the various systems, devices, apparatuses, etc. in this disclosure can be sterilized (e.g., with heat, radiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, etc.) to ensure they are safe for use with patients, and the methods herein can comprise sterilization of the associated system, device, apparatus, etc. (e.g., with heat, radiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, etc.).

[0030] Figure 1 illustrates a package sealing system 100 configured to seal a medical device within medical device packaging 102 (also referred to as “the packaging 102”) in accordance with one or more examples. The package sealing system 100 (also referred to as “the sealing system 100”) is configured to emit energy toward the packaging 102 to create a seal(s) 104 between multiple packaging members to seal a medical device therein and / or another device / element (and / or to seal the packaging 102 for other purposes). The package sealing system 100 can be configured by a user, system / device, or other entity / component to emit energy at a particular location(s) on the packaging 102, such that the seal 104 is formed in the packaging 102 with certain characteristics, including a particular pattern / path, number of segments, shape,Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 thickness, etc. In some cases, the package sealing system 100 is configured to implement a mask to form the seal 104 in a controlled manner based on a pattern formed in the mask, as discussed in further detail below. In this example, the package sealing system 100 implements a laser to emit a laser beam 106 towards the packaging 102. However, other types of energy sources can be implemented.

[0031] In some examples, the package sealing system 100 is configured to form a airtight / gastight / watertight seal 104 (also referred to as a “continuous seal” or “hermetic seal”) in the packaging 102 to prevent gas / air / water from entering / leaving a chamber / cavity where the medical device is contained. In other examples, the package sealing system 100 is configured to form a gas-permeable / vapor-permeable seal 104 in the packaging 102 that includes a channel configured to permit gas / vapor to pass through the gas-permeable seal 104 and / or enter a cavity / chamber where a medical device is located. In some cases, when a medical device is packaged within the packaging 102 and a gas-permeable seal is formed, the packaging 102 can be sterilized using a gas or other substance, wherein the gas / substance can penetrate through the gas-permeable seal to sterilize the medical device located therein. This can allow the medical device to be packaged first and sterilized thereafter, which provides various benefits in some cases.

[0032] In examples, the package sealing system 100 is configured to form one or more continuous seals in the packaging 102, such as a seal that is formed along a continuous line or path. For instance, the package sealing system 100 can start a seal at one corner of the packaging 102 and form a continuous segment around a perimeter of the packaging 102 back to the one corner, such that the seal is continuous around the packaging 102. Further, in examples, the package sealing system 100 is configured to form a spot / localized seal(s), such as a seal formed at a specific point or area. Moreover, in examples, the package sealing system 100 is configured to form a single or multiple seal segments (which can be implemented using a single or multiple lasers, beam splitting, multiple passes, etc.), as discussed in further detail below.

[0033] In examples, the package sealing system 100 can be configured by a user, system / device, etc. to facilitate sealing in various packaging implementations / applications. For instance, the package sealing system 100 can be used for packages that include different sizes, shapes, etc., wherein the package sealing system 100 can be configured to facilitate different types of seals, such as seals that have different patterns, sizes, etc. In examples, the package sealing system 100 can be configured based on data / message received from another device or directly through the package sealing system 100 (e.g., an input / output interface) regarding a seal / packaging application / characteristic. Further, in examples, the package sealing system 100Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 can include one or more alignment and positioning components 108 (also referred to as “the positioning system 108,” for convenience) configured to detect a package and / or characteristics of the package and / or to position / align an energy source to emit energy in the desired manner to form a seal in the packaging. Example details of the package sealing system 100 will be discussed below in reference to Figure 14.

[0034] In examples, the packaging 102 can include multiple packaging members / portions / sections 102(A), 102(B) that are coupled to each other, such as via the seal 104, another seal, and / or other attachment means / members / components. The packaging members 102(A), 102(B) can be disposed to form a cavity / area within the packaging 102 to house / contain a medical device. The packaging members 102(A), 102(B) can be separate elements / components or integral elements / components (e.g., a same material / substance including multiple portions / segments). To illustrate, the packaging member 102(A), 102(B) can be two portions / sections of the same material that are folded, bent, or otherwise arranged relative to each other. The packaging members 102(A), 102(B) can be sheets / layers / pieces / membranes of material, substances, etc. In examples, the packaging member 102(A) is formed of a first material / substance and the packaging member 102(B) is formed of a second material / substance. In other examples, the packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are formed of the same material / substance. For ease of illustration / discussion, the packaging 102 is illustrated in some figures with a medical device disposed therein; however, the packaging 102 can be implemented without a medical device. Furthermore, the packaging 102 can be configured to house other types of devices / items.

[0035] The packaging members 110 can be attached / coupled together using the seal 104 and / or other elements. For instance, the package sealing system 100 can implement an energy source to subject the packaging 102 to energy, such as heat, a laser beam, induction, etc., wherein the energy source emits energy to weld / fuse / bond / attach / adhere the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to each other. Additionally, or alternatively, an adhesive can be applied to the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to weld / fuse / bond / attach / adhere the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to each other. In one illustration, an adhesive layer is placed between the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) and energy is emitted at the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to activate the adhesive layer, causing the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to adhere to each other and / or the adhesive layer. In some cases, an adhesive layer can be activated by light energy to exhibit certain pressure characteristics, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is configured to activate based on light energy, wherein in an activated state the pressure-sensitive adhesive is configured to form a bond when pressure is applied. Additionally, or alternatively,Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 one or more of the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) can include a mating / attachment feature / element configured to attach / couple to an opposing matting / attachment feature / element, such as a flange, detent, indent, hole, protrusion, edge, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, a fastener can be used to attach the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to each other. In any event, the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) can be attached / coupled together (e.g., laminated, adhered, bonded, mated, etc.) via the seal 104, another seal, and / or other attachment means / features. Although two packaging members 102(A), 102(B) are illustrated in some examples, any number of packaging members can be implemented.

[0036] In some examples, the seal 104 and / or another seal is a weld seal, wherein two or more pieces of material are welded together. In examples, a weld seal is a permanent seal. However, the weld seal can be a temporary / peelable / non-permanent seal. In some examples of a weld seal, two or more packaging members are melted together with an energy source. In some examples of a peelable seal, an adhesive is used to attach two or more packaging members to each other. However, other forms of seals can be implemented with or without a substance / material used in forming the seal.

[0037] Figure 2 illustrates an example implementation of sealing the packaging 102 with a mask 202 that is configured to permit passage of energy through a window 204 in accordance with one or more examples. The mask 202 (also referred to as a barrier, stencil, shield, covering, template, blocker, guard, resist, etc.) can assist in controlling the formation of the seal 104 in the packaging 102, such as by causing a particular area of the packaging 102 to be exposed to energy and another area of the packaging to be blocked from energy, thereby forming the seal 104 in the particular area. In examples, the mask 202 can provide a precise formation of the seal 104.

[0038] As shown, the mask 202 includes the window 204 (also referred to as “the permissible portion 204” or “permissible area 204”) that includes a pattern configured to permit / allow passage of energy, such as the laser beam 106, through the mask 202. A pattern can include a variety of shapes, forms, etc. In some cases, a pattern is repetitive, while in other cases a pattern is not repetitive. A pattern can include simple a straight line, more complex shapes, or another shape / form to facilitate a variety of seal types. An impermissible portion 206 (also referred to as “the impermissible area 206”) of the mask 202 prevents energy from passing therethrough. The permissible portion 204 can generally permit passage of energy having one or more first characteristics, while the impermissible portion 206 can generally prevent / block energy having one or more second characteristics, wherein the one or more first and second characteristics can be the same (or different in some cases). A characteristic can refer to aAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 wavelength, an intensity, energy level, etc. In examples, intensity can refer to power, fluence, brightness, radiance, beam intensity, optical power density, irradiance, peak power, energy density, amplitude, etc. For instance, intensity can refer to the power per unit area of a laser beam.

[0039] The mask 202(A) illustrates an example where the window 204(A) is open. Meanwhile, the mask 202(B) illustrates an example where the window 204(B) includes a permissible substance / material, such as glass, polymer, glass polymer, doped polymer, typical glass, optical fibers, or other substance configured to permit energy to pass therethrough. In some cases, the window 204(B) includes a substance / material that is configured to permit passage of energy having a particular characteristic(s), such as a wavelength in a certain range, more than a predetermined intensity of energy, etc. As such, in some examples, the mask 202 includes a first area (i.e., the permissible portion 204) configured to pass energy (e.g., energy having certain characteristics, such as a wavelength in a certain range, an energy intensity in a certain range, etc.) and a second area (i.e., the impermissible portion 206) configured to block energy (e.g., energy having certain characteristics, such as a wavelength in a certain range, an energy intensity in a certain range, etc.).

[0040] Although masks are illustrated in many examples with particular patterns, the masks can include other patterns. Moreover, although masks are illustrated in many examples as devices, a mask can alternatively, or additionally, be provided by printing, painting, covering, or coating an agent / substance on a packaging member.

[0041] Figure 3 illustrates an example implementation of sealing the packaging 102 with a medium / substance 302 (also referred to as “substance 302,” “permissible material 302,” “optical element 302,” or “device 302”) that is configured to permit passage of energy in accordance with one or more examples. The medium 302 can include a permissible substance / material, such as glass, polymer, glass polymer, doped polymer, typical glass, optical fibers, or other substance configured to permit energy to pass therethrough. In some cases, the medium 302 is configured to permit passage of energy having a particular characteristic(s), such as a wavelength in a certain range, more than a predetermined intensity of energy, etc. In examples, the medium 302 is configured to enhance or change energy that passes therethrough, such as an energy / laser amplifier or gain medium configured to amplify / boost / increase power of energy / laser beam, a magnifier having a particular shape (e.g., convex) configured to focus / magnify a laser beam, etc.

[0042] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the packaging 102 and a mask 402 with a window 404 configured to facilitate sealing of a side of the packaging 102 in accordance withAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 one or more examples. Here, an energy source can be configured to emit energy through the window 404 (which may or may not include a permissible substance / material) to seal the bottom side of the packaging 102 with respect to Figure 4. This can be useful in many situations, such as an application / implementation where a single side of packaging needs to be sealed. To illustrate, the packaging 102 can be sealed on three sides with a seal 406 or other attachment means / features. With the three sides attached, an opening can be provided in the remaining side to allow a medical device to be packaged within a cavity of the packaging 102. The mask 402 can then be used to seal the remaining side and fully seal the medical device within the packaging 102. This can include emitting energy at the mask 402, resulting in the energy passing through the window 404 and forming a sealing in the remaining side 102 of the packaging 102.

[0043] Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the packaging 102 and a mask 502 with multiple window segments configured to facilitate sealing of multiple sides of the packaging 102 in accordance with one or more examples. As shown, the mask 502 is configured / designed to extend around a perimeter of the packaging 102, wherein a window 504 is disposed within the mask 502 and extends around a perimeter of the packaging 102. Each side of the window 504 can be considered a segment (e.g., a straight segment in this example), wherein the collection of the segments can form a continuous window in this example. The mask 502 of Figure 5 can be useful in many situations, such as an application / implementation where multiple sides of the packaging need to be sealed. To illustrate, a medical device can be disposed / placed between the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) and the packaging members 102 can be sealed together using the mask 502. This can include emitting energy at the mask 502, resulting in the energy passing through the window 504 and forming a sealing around a perimeter of the packaging 102.

[0044] Figures 4 and 5 (and other figures) illustrate the packaging 102 implemented with two packaging members 102(A), 102(B). However, the packaging 102 can take other forms, such as any number of packaging members. Moreover, the packaging 102 and / or seals used to attach the packaging members 102 can have other shapes, sizes, etc.

[0045] Figure 6 illustrates an example of sealing the packaging 102 with multiple lasers at the same time in accordance with one or more examples. Here, the package sealing system 100 (not shown for ease of illustration) is configured to emit a plurality of laser beams 602 at the packaging 102 to create / form multiple seals 604 within the packaging 102. The multiple seals 604 can follow a same path (as illustrated) or follow different paths. In some case, the multiple seals 604 include non-continuous seals, such as to form a gas-permeable seal or for other purposes. Further, in some cases, the multiple seals include continuous seals. In examples, the package sealing system 100 emits the plurality of laser beams 602 by using a laser array,Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 beam splitter(s), diffractive optical element(s), fiber optic coupler(s), holographic optical element(s), prism array(s), spatial light modulator(s), etc.

[0046] Figure 7 illustrates an example of cutting a portion of the packaging 102 using the sealing system 100 (not shown) in accordance with one or more examples. The sealing system 100 can direct a cutting device (also referred to as a “cutter”) at the packaging 102 to remove excess packaging material. The sealing system 100 can control the cutting device to follow a predetermined pattern and / or a pattern based on detecting the packaging 102, such as an outer edge of the packaging 102. In some cases, the sealing system 100 causes the cutting device to travel / move at a particular speed (e.g., less / more than a threshold) to ensure that the packaging material is cut. In this example, the sealing system 100 emits a laser beam 702 that is configured to cut the packaging 102 to remove a section of the packaging 102 around a perimeter of the packaging 102. Here, the packaging 102 has already been sealed with a seal 704. However, excess packaging material can be removed before the packaging 102 is sealed. The sealing system 100 can be configured to emit the laser beam 702 that includes one or more characteristics, such as more than a certain wavelength (e.g., ultraviolet or other wavelength), more than a threshold amount of energy / intensity, etc., which can be based on a characteristic(s) of material of the packaging 102.

[0047] In some cases, the sealing system 100 implements the same laser to form the seal 704 and to cut the packaging 102. For instance, the sealing system 100 can cause a laser to emit a laser beam with a first set of one or more characteristics and travel along a first path to form the seal 704. The sealing system 100 can reconfigure the laser with one or more second characteristics can cause the laser to travel along a second path to cut the packaging 102.

[0048] Although various examples are discussed in the context of a cutting device including a laser, the cutting device can include other devices / features, such as a knife, die cutter, slitting machine, guillotine cutters, scoring machine, plotter cutter, thermoforming machine, rotary trimmer, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, waterjet, punch press, etc. Further, the cutting device can be implemented by other devices / systems than the sealing system 100. For instance, the sealing system 100 can be used to form the seal 704 and a separate system can be used to cut the packaging 102, such as a dedicated cutting device or another device / system. In examples, a laser implemented as a cutting device has a different characteristic than a laser implemented for sealing, such as different power.

[0049] Figure 8 illustrates an example of concurrently (e.g., simultaneously) sealing and cutting the packaging 102 in accordance with one or more examples. Here, the sealing system 100 (not shown) can concurrently direct / control / move a first laser 802 (e.g., a cuttingAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 device) to remove packaging material and a second laser 804 to form a seal 806 in the packaging 102. The sealing system 100 can cause the first laser 802 and second laser 804 to travel a path around the packaging 102 to concurrently seal and cut the packaging 102. In many cases, the first laser 802 includes different characteristics than the second laser 804, such that the first laser 802 is implemented with characteristics to cut the packaging 102 and the second laser is implemented with characteristics to form the seal 806.

[0050] Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packaging implemented with an adhesive material 902 (also referred to as “the adhesive material / layer 902” or “fusing / attaching material / layer 902”) to assist in sealing packaging members to each other, wherein the adhesive material 902 extends from one end to the other of the packaging 102 in accordance with one or more examples. Meanwhile, Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the packaging 102 implemented with an adhesive material 1002 (also referred to as “the adhesive material / layer 1002” or “fusing / attaching material / layer 1002”) that extends around a perimeter of the packaging 102 in accordance with one or more examples. In some examples, the adhesive 902 and / or the adhesive 1002 is configured to be activated, such as by heat, gas, a chemical / solution, water, or another agent, to adhere to the first packaging member 102(A) and / or the second packaging member 102(B) and / or adhere the first packaging member 102(A) and the second packaging member 102(B) to each other. To illustrate, the adhesive 902 / 1002 can be configured to be activated when the temperature reaches more than a certain threshold, such as based on heat generated from a laser beam contacting the adhesive 902 / 1002. The adhesive 902 / 1002 can form a bond between the packaging members 102(A), 102(B). As such, in some cases, the adhesive 902 / 1002 is a heat-activated, light-activated, ultraviolet-activated, etc. adhesive.

[0051] In some cases, a laser is configured with one or more characteristics to activate the adhesive 902 / 1002 to adhere / attach to another element. For example, the laser can emit a laser beam 904 that includes a wavelength within a certain range (e.g., an ultraviolet (UV) wavelength or another wavelength), an intensity within a certain range or more than a threshold, etc. As such, in some examples, the sealing system 100 (not shown) is configured to emit UV energy / laser to activate the adhesive 902 / 1002 to seal the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to each other. In examples, the adhesive 902 and / or the adhesive 1002 is referred to as a light- activated, heat-activated, heat activatable, UV-activated, UV-activatable, UV-cured, UV-curable, etc.

[0052] In some examples, the first packaging member 102(A) that first receives energy from the package sealing system 100 (e.g., the top layer) includes one or moreAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 characteristics to permit the energy to penetrate through to the adhesive 902, 1002. For instance, in the context of the adhesive 902, 1002 being a UV-activated adhesive, the first packaging member 102(A) can be configured to permit passage of UV energy therethrough, such as a transparent, semi-transparent, or other layer. Additionally, or alternative, the first packaging member 102(A) can be implemented as a transparent, semi-transparent, or other layer in other contexts, such as when the adhesive 902, 1002 is activated by other types of energy.

[0053] Figure 11 illustrates various types of medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples. As shown, the packaging 102 can be implemented in a variety of manners. In implementations, the packaging 102 is a pouch / bag / header bag / pouch-style packaging 1102 that includes multiple sheets of an at least partly flexible material (e.g., flexible sheets) (sometimes referred to as “a flexible package”). The multiple sheets of material can be sealed to each other and create a cavity for a medical device 1104 to be received therein.

[0054] Further, in implementations, the packaging 102 is a tray / tray-style packaging 1106 that is formed of an at least partly rigid material (e.g., more rigid than a pouch), which can hold the medical device 1102 and / or provide structure to protect the medical device 1104. However, in some cases, the pouch 1102 can be more rigid than the tray 1106. The tray 1106 can include grooves / depressions / cavities to receive / secure the medical device 1104. In examples, the tray 1106 includes multiple pieces that can attach together, such as a top tray / component and a bottom tray component that are configured with mating features / elements to couple together around the medical device 1104. In examples, the tray 1106 provides more protection / support than a pouch (also referred to as “a rigid package”). In examples, the packaging 102 includes a sheet of a relatively flexible material (e.g., similar to or the same as a pouch sheet) that covers a base of the tray 1106.

[0055] Moreover, in implementations, the packaging 102 is a jar 1108 that includes a base structure (e.g., jar-like container / structure) and a lid, wherein the lid can have at least partly rigid structure (e.g., a screwable lid) or a more flexible structure (e.g., a sheet of material that can be attached to the base with adhesive or in another manner). In some cases, the packaging 102 can include multiple types of packaging with a first type of packaging being disposed within a second type of packaging. To illustrate, the packaging 102 can include a tray or jar located within a pouch or a pouch located within a tray or jar. Although example types of packaging are illustrated, the packaging 102 can include other forms of packaging.

[0056] The packaging 102 can be implemented with a variety of materials. In some implementations, the packaging 102 includes multiple members / elements / portions that are each made of the same material (sometimes referred to as “mono-material packaging”). That is, theAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 same type of material can be used for the members / elements / portions of the packaging 102. This can ease in recycling of the packaging 102 or otherwise disposing of the packaging 102 once the medical device 1102 is removed. For example, the packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) can be made of the same material. In some cases, by making packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) of the same material, the packaging 102 can be partially opened to remove the medical device 1104 and the packaging 102 can be disposed of in the same recycling container (without the user having to fully separate the packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) from each other). This can minimize the effort of the user in removing the medical device, which can be beneficial in many instances, such as when relatively large packaging is used to house relatively large medical devices, when the user is required to remove multiple medical devices from packaging over the course of a day, etc. In other implementations, the packaging 102 includes different materials for multiple members / elements / portions of the packaging 102, such as a first material for the packaging member 102(A) and a second, different material for the packaging member 102(B). In examples, the packaging 102 includes a gas-permeable / breathable material, such as Tyvek. In examples, the packaging 102 includes paper, film, foil (e.g., a metal foil), etc.

[0057] In some cases, the packaging 102 is formed from packaging material that does not include a predetermined shape associated with a medical device. For instance, the packaging 102 can be implemented with a web-based material, such as a continuous roll or web of material, that is used for different types of medical devices. For instance, a sheet of material can be rolled out and used for a first medical device application that includes a first shape / characteristic by implementing the techniques discussed herein for sealing and / or cutting the packaging. Similarly, the sheet of material can be rolled out and used for a second medical device application that includes a second shape / characteristic by implementing the techniques discussed herein for sealing and / or cutting the packaging. Thus, by implementing the techniques discussed herein for sealing and / or cutting packaging, the same initial packaging material can be used for different applications, thereby providing an adaptable packaging implementation and / or conserving packaging material.

[0058] In examples, the packaging 102 includes one or more members / elements / portions that are formed of a material that is substantially transparent / clear / see-through or non-transparent (opaque / translucent). In transparent implementations, a user can see into the cavity of the packaging 102 to identify the medical device 1104 disposed therein. The transparent / non-transparent material can include any type of polymeric material. For instance, the packaging members 102(A) and / or 102(B) can be transparent.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0059] In some cases, such as the example shown in Figure 11, the packaging 102 includes multiple seal segments that are formed using different techniques, formed at different times, etc. To illustrate, the seal segment 1110 can be formed using a first sealing technique, which may or may not include implementing a laser, and the seal segment 1112 can be formed using a second sealing technique that is different than the first sealing technique. In one example, the seal segment 1110 can be formed to create the cavity, the medical device 1104 can be disposed / placed within the cavity, and the seal segment 1112 can be formed to seal the medical device 1104 therein. In some cases, the seal segment 1112 (and / or the seal segment 1110) is formed using one or more of the techniques discussed herein, such as a laser, etc.

[0060] As discussed herein, in some cases, the packaging 102 is implemented with an adhesive. In one example, the packaging 102 includes an adhesive 1112 (shown with stippling) that is disposed between the packaging member 102(A), 102(B) and extends around more of the perimeter of the packaging 102, similar to the example of Figure 10. In another example, the packaging 102 includes an adhesive 1114 (shown with stippling) that is disposed between the packaging member 102(A), 102(B) and extends across the packaging 102, similar to the example of Figure 9. Further, an adhesive can take other forms.

[0061] Figure 12 illustrates various types of seals for medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples. As shown, the packaging 102 can include a seal 1202 that seals the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to each other and extends around at least a portion of the packaging 102. In Figure 12, the callout to the right illustrates a top cross-sectional view of example seals 1202(A)-1202(C).

[0062] In some cases, the seal 1202 is implemented with a single row / column / layer / level / ring / track, as shown at example 1202(A). Further, in some cases, the seal 1202 is implemented with multiple rows / columns / layers / levels / rings / tracks, as shown at example 1202(B). Moreover, in some cases, the seal 1202 is implemented with a repetitive pattern, as shown at example 1202(C).

[0063] In examples, the seals 1202 of examples 1202(A)-1202(C) are implemented as continuous seals that connect back on each other (e.g., starting and end points of the seal are the same). In other examples, the seals 1202 of examples 1202(A)-1202(C) are implemented as discontinuous seals, such as by including a channel (as discussed below), by not connecting starting and end points, etc. Although the seals 1202 of examples 1202(A)-1202(C) are illustrated with certain forms (e.g., shapes, widths, lengths, straight segments, etc.), the seals 1202 can include other forms.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0064] Figure 13 illustrates gas-permeable seals that can be implemented for medical device packaging in accordance with one or more examples. As shown, the packaging 102 can include a seal 1202 that seals the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) to each other and extends around at least a portion of the packaging 102. Here, the seal 1302 (and / or other portions of the packaging 102) includes one or more channels that are configured to permit a gas to enter / exit the packaging 102 a cavity where a medical device is located and / or prevent / minimize a microorganism (e.g., pathogen) from entering / exiting the packaging 102. In examples, the packaging 102 with the seal 1202 is configured to facilitate gas sterilization or another gaseous process to treat the packaging 102 and / or a medical device disposed therein.

[0065] A gas sterilization process can include treating the packaging 102 with Ethylene Oxide (ETO) gas, Vapor Hydrogen Peroxide, Nitrous Oxide, Chlorine Dioxide, Ozone (Gas Plasma), Steam sterilization, or another gas, while the medical device is sealed within the packaging 102. The gas penetrates through the seal 1302 (and / or other portions of the packaging 102) to sterilize the medical device and / or the packaging 102. In some implementations, a portion / member / membrane of the packaging 102 is non-porous for some substances and is breathable to gas, such as a polymeric material (e.g., Polytetrafluoroethylene). Although various examples are discussed in the context of using a gas to sterilize the medical device, a gas can be applied to treat the medical device for other purposes. Further, in some implementations, the packaging 102 can be subjected to irradiation sterilization, including, but not limited to, E-Beam, Gamma, X-ray, etc.

[0066] In examples, the seal 1302 includes one or more segments / portions positioned / formed to provide one or more channels (also referred to as “one or more pathways or paths”) that facilitate passage through the seal 1302. Each seal segment can be a portion / section / area of the seal 1302 where the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) are attached / coupled together (e.g., in a sealed manner that prevents passage of a gas / vapor). Whereas an opening / discontinuity in the seal 1302 can be a portion / section / area where the packaging members 102(A), 102(B) are not attached / coupled together or attached together in a manner that permits passage of a gas / vapor. The collection of openings / discontinuities and / or spacing between one or more seal segments can form the one or more channels in the seal 1302 (sometimes referred to as “one or more ingress pathways”). A channel and / or seal segment can include one or more straight and / or one or more curved portions / sections. A dimension (e.g., width, depth, length, etc.) of an opening or segment can be the same or different relative to another opening or segment.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0067] In examples, the seal 1302 includes one or more channels that form one or more tortuous paths, which can be configured to prevent microorganisms from reaching a medical device located within the packaging 102, since the microorganisms are unable to navigate a tortuous path. Further, in examples, the seal 1302 includes one or more channels that include a particular length or other dimension such that an average distance or shortest / longest distance that is traveled from an external environment to the internal cavity is more / less than a threshold. For example, a network of channels or single channel can be formed in the seal 1302 so that a gas is required to travel at least a predetermined / threshold distance to reach the cavity of the packaging 102 (e.g., a tortuous or non-tortuous path is longer than a threshold). This can prevent a microorganism from reaching the medical device, such as in cases where the microorganism may die after traveling a particular distance that is less than the predetermined / threshold distance.

[0068] In some implementations, the seal 1302 is configured / designed such that an average distance or shortest / longest distance that is traveled from an external environment to an internal cavity is more / less than a threshold. For example, a network of channels or single channel can be formed in the seal 1302 so that a gas is required to travel at least a predetermined / threshold distance to reach the cavity of the packaging 102 (e.g., a channel path is longer than a threshold). This can prevent a microorganism from reaching a medical device, such as in cases where the microorganism may die after traveling a particular distance that is less than the predetermined / threshold distance, the microorganism is unable to travel a particular distance along a path that includes a particular number of curves / corners / obstacles / features, the microorganism is unable to travel a particular distance for other reasons, etc.

[0069] In Figure 13, the callout to the right illustrates a top cross-sectional view of example seals 1302(A)-1302(E). In examples, such as that shown as the top example 1302(A) of Figure 13, the seal 1302 includes multiple tracks that are separated from each other by a discontinuity / opening / spacing. The term “track” can represent a row, column, layer, level, trace, ring, etc. (often referred to as a “row” or “track” for convenience). Each track can include one or more segments disposed within a closed geometric shape / form. A track may take a variety of shapes / forms, such as when viewed from a top view (like Figure 13 or another view), which may include a rectangle (as shown in Figure 13), circle, quadrilateral, line, etc. A track can be referenced / defined relative to a proximity / distance / shape of the track to the cavity where the medical device is packaged, outer edge of the packaging 102, another feature of the packaging 102, etc. Although segments of the seal are illustrated with particular forms, orientations, etc., the segments can take other forms, orientations, etc.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0070] In some implementations, one or more segments / portions of the seal 1302(A) and / or one or more openings can be formed / disposed in a pattern to define predetermined / repetitive patterns for one or more channels / segments. For example, one or more first segments can include first dimensions and / or be positioned at first distances relative to each other and one or more second segments can include the first dimensions and / or be positioned at the first distances relative to each other. Further, in some implementations, one or more segments of the seal 108 and / or one or more openings can be formed / disposed in a random configuration to define random / non-repetitive channels / segments.

[0071] Figure 13 also illustrates the packaging 102 implemented with the seal 1302(B) having a straight, non-tortuous channel(s) and / or the seal 1302(C) having a slightly curved, non-tortuous channel(s). The channel can be straight / substantially straight, curved, or take another form. In some examples, a non-tortuous channel includes less than a threshold number of turns / bends, less than a threshold number of curves, curves / bends by less than a particular amount / degrees, or other characteristics. Although the channel of the example seal 1302(C) is referred to as a non-tortuous path, in some examples a slight curve in the channel (as shown) can be a tortuous path.

[0072] Figure 13 also illustrates the packaging 102 implemented with the seal 1302(D) having a curved, tortuous channel(s) and / or the seal 1302(E) having a more abrupt, tortuous channel(s) with sharper corners. A tortuous channel can include turns / bends or other features such that a path through the tortuous channel is not straight (e.g., indirect). In some examples, a tortuous channel includes more than a threshold number of turns, more than a threshold number of curves or other obstacles / features, curves / bends by more than a particular amount / degrees, or other characteristics. In some instances, a tortuous channel includes a particular pattern of features, while in other instances a tortuous channel includes features that are more randomly positioned / oriented along the path. A microorganism can generally not navigate / travel through a tortuous path, at least a tortuous path that includes sufficient turns, obstacles, or other features to navigate around. Thus, the packaging 102 can be implemented with the tortuous channel and / or the tortuous channel can be implemented with specific features to prevent microorganisms or other organisms from reaching a medical device disposed within the packaging 102.

[0073] In examples, a non-tortuous or tortuous channel can include a length, width, travel distance, or other dimension that is greater than a threshold / predetermined distance, such that a microorganism or gas would need to travel the length / dimension to reach the internal cavity. The threshold distance can be longer than a distance a microorganism can travel withoutAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 being attached to a host / entity, which can be a distance that is based on information indicating an average / longest / shortest distance a microorganism can travel without being attached to a host / entity.

[0074] Although the examples of Figures 12 and 13 (and / or other example seals discussed herein) are illustrated in different figures, any of such examples can be combined and / or implemented in other contexts.

[0075] Figure 14 illustrates example details of the sealing system 100 in accordance with one or more examples. As shown, the sealing system 100 can include one or more energy sources 1402 (also referred to as “the energy source 1402” for convenience), control circuitry 1404, one or more cutting devices 1406, data storage 1408 (which can store seal characteristics data 1410, executable instructions, and / or other data), the positioning system 108, and / or a power unit 1412.

[0076] The energy source 1402 can be configured to emit / radiate / release energy into an environment or at a target. For example, the energy source 1402 can be configured to emit / radiate / release energy at packaging to seal elements of the packaging together, such as to seal a medical device within the package. In examples, the energy source 1402 is configured to create / form a seal that includes one or more seal characteristics specified in the seal characteristics data 1210. The energy source 1402 can include a heat emitter(s), a light emitter(s), etc. A heat emitter can include a heat element(s), radiator(s), etc. A light emitter can include Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), lasers, etc. In examples, the energy source 1402 includes one or more thermal management components, such as heat sinks, thermoelectric coolers (TECs), fans, liquid cooling systems, etc.

[0077] In examples where the energy source 1402 includes a laser, the laser can be configured to emit a laser beam / ray / light. For instance, the laser can emit a highly focused / concentrated beam of light, providing high density energy. In examples, one or more parameters of the laser can be controlled, such as power, focus, duration, etc. depending on the desired characteristics of a seal, which can be dependent on a characteristic(s) of packaging material. In examples, a laser can include (or be coupled to) one or more lenses, mirrors, filters, beam splitters, etc. In examples, a laser includes a laser array (i.e., multiple emitters configured to emit multiple laser beams, respectively). In examples, a laser includes an ultraviolet (UV) laser configured to emit a UV ray / laser / light beam. A UV ray / light / laser beam can include a wavelength within a UV range of 10-400 nanometers, for example. Although other ranges can be implemented.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0078] The one or more cutting devices 1406 (also referred to as “the material processing component 1406”) can include a knife, die cutter, slitting machine, guillotine cutters, scoring machine, plotter cutter, thermoforming machine, rotary trimmer, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, waterjet, punch press, laser, etc. In some examples, the one or more cutting devices 1406 are the same as the energy source 1402. For instance, the energy source 1402 can be configured to emit energy that seals packaging and emit energy that cuts the packaging, based on the configuration of the energy source for the desired functionality. In one illustration, the energy source 1402 can be configured to take a first pass at packaging to seal the packaging using a first configuration for a laser and take a second pass at the packaging to remove / cut excess packaging using a second configuration for the laser (e.g., the second configuration can emit a laser beam with more intensity, for a longer period of time over a section, etc.).

[0079] The positioning system 108 can be configured to position the energy source 1402 to create a seal in the packaging with the energy source 1402. Further, the positioning system 108 can be configured to position the one or more cutting devices 1406 to cut packaging, such as to remove excess packaging material. The positioning system 108 can include one or more actuators, controllers, rails, columns, sensors, etc. In examples, a sensor includes a proximity sensor, image sensor, depth sensors, position sensors, motion sensors, pressure sensors, optical sensors, etc.

[0080] In examples, the positioning system 108 is configured to detect a position / orientation, edges, corners, or other features of packaging using one or more sensors. For instance, the positioning system 108 can be configured to capture one or more images (e.g., image data) of packaging placed for treatment, analyze the one or more images to determine an outline / feature of the packaging, and / or form a seal in the packaging based on the outline / feature of the packaging. In some cases, a seal is formed a particular distance from an outer perimeter. Further, in examples, the sealing system 100 can be configured to receive data regarding characteristics of packaging and / or form a seal in the packaging based on the characteristics and / or a known location where the packaging is placed relative to the sealing system 100.

[0081] The control circuitry 1404 can include one or more processing modules / units, chips, dies (e.g., semiconductor dies including come or more active and / or passive devices and / or connectivity circuitry), microprocessors, micro-controllers, digital signal processors (DSPs), microcomputers, central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), programmable logic devices, state machines (e.g., hardware state machines), logic circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), program-specific standard products (ASSPs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and / or any device that manipulates signals (analog and / or digital) based on hard coding of the circuitry and / or operational instructions. In examples, the control circuitry includes or is referred to as one or more processors or processing circuitry. Control circuitry can further comprise one or more storage devices, which can be embodied in a single memory device, a plurality of memory devices, and / or embedded circuitry of a device. Such data storage can comprise read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, data storage registers, and / or any device that stores digital information. In some examples in which control circuitry comprises a hardware state machine (and / or implements a software state machine), analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and / or logic circuitry, data storage device(s) / register(s) storing any associated operational instructions can be embedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and / or logic circuitry.

[0082] The data storage 1408 (as well as any other data storage or memory discussed herein) can include any suitable or desirable type of computer-readable media. For example, one or more computer-readable media can include one or more volatile data storage devices, non- volatile data storage devices, removable data storage devices, and / or nonremovable data storage devices implemented using any technology, layout, and / or data structure(s) / protocol, including any suitable or desirable computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data types. One or more computer-readable media that can include, but is not limited to, phase change memory, static random-access memory (SRAM), dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store information for access by a computing device. As used in certain contexts herein, computer-readable media may not generally refer to communication media, such as modulated data signals and carrier waves. As such, computer-readable media generally refers to non-transitory media.

[0083] The control circuitry 1404 and / or data storage 1408 can store executable instructions that, when executed by the control circuitry 1404, cause the control circuitry 1404 to perform one or more functions / operations discussed herein. For example, the control circuitry 1404 can be configured to control the one or more energy sources 1402, the one or more cuttingAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 devices 1406, and / or the positioning system 108 to package a device withing packaging. To illustrate, the control circuitry 1404 can generate and / or send one or more messages, control instructions / data, and / or other data / notifications to the one or more energy sources 1402, the one or more cutting devices 1406, and / or the positioning system 108 to cause such elements to emit a laser beam and / or travel a desired path to form a seal within packaging.

[0084] In some cases, such as that illustrated in Figure 14, the data storage 1408 stores data regarding the one or more seal characteristics 1410, such as a seal pattern(s) that can be implemented, a thickness / width / length / height of a seal, a shape of a seal, etc. The control circuitry 1404 can use the one or more seal characteristics 1410 to form / create a seal in packaging.

[0085] The data storage 1408 can also store data regarding packaging, such as a characteristic(s) of a package, an identifier of a package, a unique identifier for a specific package, etc. In some cases, packaging can include an element / component, such as a bar code, Quick Response (QR) code, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag, etc., that identifies the type of packaging, a specific package, etc. The positioning system 108 or another element can capture / obtain data regarding the identifier from the packaging, such as by scanning the packaging, capturing image data, capturing a laser etched encoding, etc.

[0086] The control circuitry 1404 and / or data storage 1408 can be electrically and / or communicatively coupled using certain connectivity circuitry / devices / features, which may or may not be part of control circuitry 1404. For example, the connectivity feature(s) can include one or more printed circuit boards configured to facilitate mounting and / or interconnectivity of at least some of the various components / circuitry. In some examples, two or more of the components can be electrically and / or communicatively coupled to each other.

[0087] Although the control circuitry 1404 is illustrated as a separate component from the data storage 1408, the data storage 1408 can be embodied / included in at least in part in the control circuitry 1404. For instance, the control circuitry 1404 can include various devices (active and / or passive), semiconductor materials and / or areas, layers, regions, and / or portions thereof, conductors, leads, vias, connections, and / or the like, wherein one or more of the data storage 1408 and / or portion(s) thereof can be formed and / or embodied at least in part in / by such circuitry components / devices.

[0088] The power unit 1412 can be configured to provide and / or regulate power to one or more components of the sealing system 100. For example, the power unit 1412 can be coupled to and / or configured to provide power to the energy source 1402, control circuitry 1404, one or more cutting devices 1406, the positioning system 108, and / or the data storage 1408.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0089] In examples, the sealing system 100 includes or is coupled to / associated with one or more I / O devices, including one or more displays, buttons, microphones, speakers, microphones, keyboards, joysticks, mice, touch pads, wearable devices (e.g., optical head- mounted display), and so on. The one or more I / O devices can be configured to receive touch, speech, gesture, or any other type of input. The one or more displays can include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic LED display, a plasma display, an electronic paper display, or any other type of technology. In some examples, the one or more displays include one or more touchscreens. In examples, the one or more I / O devices can be configured to receive user input, such as input indicating a type of packaging, a seal to be used, an identifier for packaging, etc., wherein such user input can be used to configured the sealing system 100 for sealing / cutting packaging.

[0090] In examples, the sealing system 100 includes or is associated with components / elements that are configured to position packaging at a desired position for sealing / cutting. For instance, a conveyor system can be used to position packaging members within a predetermined proximity to the sealing system 100. Further, in cases where the packaging is implemented with a web-based material, such as a continuous roll or web of material, the web-based material can be fed to the sealing system 100 to facilitate packaging of one or more medical devices. In examples, the sealing system 100 is configured to apply pressure and / or heat to attach packaging members to each other and / or seal the packaging members.

[0091] In examples, the sealing system 100 can be configured by a user, system / device, etc. to facilitate sealing in various packaging implementations / applications. For instance, the sealing system 100 can be programmed / configured for packaging that includes different sizes, shapes, etc. In examples, the sealing system 100 can be configured based on data / message received from another device or directly through the sealing system 100 (e.g., one or more I / O devices) regarding a seal / packaging application / characteristic.

[0092] Figure 15 illustrates a flow diagram of a process 1500 for sealing a first packaging member to a second packaging member in accordance with one or more examples. For ease of illustration, the process 1500 is discussed in the context of the example medical device packaging 102; however, the process 1000 can be implemented with other medical device packaging and / or other packaging. In examples, one or more of the blocks / operations of the process 1500 can be implemented by the control circuitry 1404 of the sealing system 100, such as based on the control circuitry 1404 implementing executable instructions.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0093] At block 1502, the process 1500 includes providing at least a first packaging member and a second packaging member. For example, the first packaging member 102(A) and second packaging member 102(B) can be provided. In some examples, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are part of the same element / material (e.g., with the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) folded, bent, or otherwise sectioned / positioned / formed / oriented to form two or more members). In other examples, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are separate elements / components. In examples, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) include one or more different characteristics, such as different materials, forms / shapes, etc.

[0094] At block 1504, the process 1500 includes disposing an adhesive between the first packaging member and the second packaging member. For example, the adhesive 902 / 1002 can be placed / disposed between the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B). In examples, the adhesive 902 / 1002 (also referred to as “adhesive layer” or “adhesive material / substance”) is an ultraviolet-activated / ultraviolet-curing adhesive, wherein the adhesive 902 / 1002 can be activated to adhere / attach / bond / couple to another element upon application of ultraviolet energy / light. Further, in other examples, the adhesive 902 / 1002 is activated to adhere / attach / bond / couple to another element upon application of energy / light having other characteristics, such as energy / light having a wavelength within a predetermined range, light having an intensity / energy level within a predetermined range, etc. In examples, the adhesive 902 / 1002 is heat-activated / heat-curing or activated / cured through another means. In examples, the adhesive 902 / 1002 includes an acrylic adhesive, polyurethan adhesive, epoxy adhesive, polyester adhesive, silicone adhesive, cyanoacrylate adhesive, polyimide adhesive, Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), etc.

[0095] At block 1506, the process 1500 includes disposing a medical device between the first packaging member and the second packaging member. For example, a medical device can be positioned between the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B), such as in a cavity formed between the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B). In examples where an adhesive is used, the adhesive 902 / 1002 is located between the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B), as shown in the examples of Figures 9 and 10.

[0096] In some examples where an adhesive is used, the blocks 1504 and 1506 are performed together and / or in a different order, such that the resulting packaging includes a medical device positioned in a cavity formed by the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) and / or the adhesive 902 / 1002.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0097] At block 1508, the process 1500 includes placing a mask within a predetermined distance to the packaging that includes the first and second packaging members. For example, the mask 202 can be placed / disposed on top of the first packaging member 102(A), as shown in Figure 2. The mask 202 can include a window, such as the window 204, configured to permit energy to pass therethrough. In examples, the window includes a material that is configured to permit passage of energy, such as light / laser beam having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths, light / laser beam having an intensity / energy level within a predetermined range, etc.

[0098] At block 1510, the process 1500 includes sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member. For example, the sealing system 100 can cause the energy source 1402 to emit energy to seal the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) to each other. In some examples, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are sealed directly to each other. In other examples, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are sealed together using the adhesive 902 / 1002 and / or another element. In examples where a mask is implemented, the sealing can include causing an energy source to emit energy through a window in the mask. In examples, the sealing system 100 forms / creates a seal in between the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B). The seal can include various types of seals, such as a weld seal, fuse seal, peelable seal (which can be formed with an adhesive or otherwise), etc.

[0099] In examples, the sealing system 100 implements a laser as the energy source 1402 to emit a laser beam at the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B). In some cases, the energy source 1402 emits ultraviolet (UV) energy / light / laser beam. In some cases, where an ultraviolet-activated / ultraviolet-curing adhesive is used, the UV energy / light / laser beam can cause the adhesive to adhere to the first packaging member 102(A) and / or the second packaging member 102(B). In some cases, the first packaging member 102(A) (and / or the second packaging member 102(B)) is configured to permit UV energy / light / laser beam (and / or energy / light / laser beam of another wavelength, intensity, etc.) to pass therethrough. This can assist in allowing the UV energy / light / laser beam to reach the adhesive and activate the adhesive.

[0100] In examples, the sealing system 100 causes the energy source 1402 to move / travel on a predetermined path to create a seal that corresponds to the predetermined path. In some cases, a mask is implemented that includes a predetermined pattern that is associated with (e.g., corresponds to) the predetermined path. In examples, the sealing system 100 causes the energy source 1402 to emit the energy in a pattern to form a patterned seal. Further, inAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 examples, the sealing system 100 causes the energy source 1402 to pass over packaging multiple times to create multiple seal segments.

[0101] In examples, the sealing system 100 and / or another sealing system seals the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) to each other with a first seal segment to form a cavity. Thereafter, a medical device can be disposed within the cavity and the package sealing system 100 can seal the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) to each other with a second seal segment to close (e.g., completely seal) the cavity. In some cases, the first seal segment is formed at a first time and / or with a first sealing technique, while the second seal segment is formed at a second time and / or with a second sealing technique.

[0102] In examples, the sealing system 100 seals the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) to each with a gas-permeable seal that includes a channel configured to permit gas to pass therethrough. In examples, the channel includes a tortuous path. However, the channel can include other forms.

[0103] In some examples, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are additionally, or alternatively, attached together in other ways besides a seal, such as by pressing the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) together, associating / coupling mating features, or otherwise performing a process to couple / attach the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) to each other.

[0104] At block 1512, the process 1500 includes controlling a cutting device to cut the packaging. For example, the sealing system 100 can implement the one or more cutting devices 1406 (which can include the energy source 1402) to cut the first packaging member 102(A) and / or the second packaging member 102(B). In examples, the energy source 1402 and the one or more cutting devices 1406 are each implemented with a laser, which can be a same laser.

[0105] In examples, the process 1500 includes concurrently sealing the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) together (at block 1510) and controlling the one or more cutting devices 1406 to cut the first packaging member 102(A) and / or the second packaging member 102(B) (at block 1512). To illustrate, the sealing system 100 can implement a first laser to seal packaging and a second laser to cut the packaging, wherein the first and second lasers can be controlled to move together (e.g., in unison, in a cooperative manner, etc.).

[0106] At block 1514, the process 1500 includes applying a sanitization gas (also referred to as a “sterilization gas”) to the packaging. For example, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) can be sealed together with a gas-permeable seal. The first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) can be treated with Ethylene Oxide (ETO) gas orAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 another gas while a medical device is disposed / seal within the packaging. The gas can penetrate through the packaging to reach the medical device through a gas-permeable channel(s). As such, the gas-permeable channel(s) can provide a barrier from microorganisms.

[0107] Although certain blocks are illustrated in the example process 1500, any of such blocks can be eliminated and / or performed in a different order. For example, in the context of implementing a completely sealed design (e.g., without a gas-permeable seal), the block 1514 may be eliminated in some cases, such that a sterilization gas is not applied. However, a sterilization gas may still be applied in some completely sealed designs to sanitize an exterior portion of the packaging, even if an internal cavity of the packaging is not sanitized.

[0108] In some examples of the process 1500, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) are at least partially sealed together before implementing one or more of the blocks 1502-1514. For instance, the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) can initially be sealed together with the seal segment 1110 shown in Figure 11, such as by implementing another process (or implementing the process 1500 a first time). The process 1500 can including (at block 1506) disposing a medical device within a cavity formed by the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) sealed together with the seal segment 1110. The process 1500 can also include (at block 1508) placing a mask on the packaging and (at block 1510) sealing the first and second packaging members 102(A) and 102(B) sealed together with the seal segment 1112. Thereby, the medical device can be sealed within the packaging.

[0109] Any of the various systems, devices, apparatuses, etc. in this disclosure can be sterilized (e.g., with heat, radiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, etc.) to ensure they are safe for use with patients, and / or the methods herein can comprise sterilization of the associated system, device, apparatus, etc. (e.g., with heat, radiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, etc.). Additional Description of Examples

[0110] Provided below is a list of examples, each of which may include aspects of any of the other examples disclosed herein. Furthermore, aspects of any example described above may be implemented in any of the numbered examples provided below.

[0111] Example 1. A method comprising: providing a first packaging member and a second packaging member; disposing a medical device in a cavity formed by the first packaging member and the second packaging member; placing a mask within a predetermined distance to the first packaging member, the mask including a window adapted / configured to permit energy to pass therethrough; sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member by causing an energy source to emit energy through the window.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0112] Example 2. The method of any example herein, in particular example 1, wherein the energy source is a laser.

[0113] Example 3. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 or 2, wherein the window includes a material that is adapted / configured to permit passage of energy having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths.

[0114] Example 4. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 3, further comprising: disposing an adhesive between the first packaging member and the second packaging member; wherein the causing the energy source to emit energy comprises causing the energy source to emit ultraviolet (UV) energy to cause the adhesive to adhere to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to form a seal.

[0115] Example 5. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 4, wherein the seal is peelable.

[0116] Example 6. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 5, wherein the first packaging member is adapted / configured to permit the UV energy to pass therethrough.

[0117] Example 7. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 6, wherein the adhesive is an ultraviolet-curing adhesive.

[0118] Example 8. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 7, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member includes causing the energy source to pass over the first packaging member multiple times to create multiple seal segments.

[0119] Example 9. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 8, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member includes causing the energy source to emit the energy in a pattern to form a patterned seal.

[0120] Example 10. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 9, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member comprising creating a gas-permeable seal that includes a channel adapted / configured to permit gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.

[0121] Example 11. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 10, wherein the channel includes a tortuous path.

[0122] Example 12. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 11, further comprising: applying a sterilization gas to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to cause the sterilization gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0123] Example 13. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 12, wherein the window includes a predetermined pattern and wherein the causing the energy source to emit energy through the window includes causing the energy source to travel along a predetermined path that is associated with the predetermined pattern.

[0124] Example 14. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 13, wherein the sealing creates a weld seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member.

[0125] Example 15. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 14, wherein the first packaging member and the second packaging member are attached together with a first seal segment to form the cavity, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member includes causing the energy source to emit energy through the window in the mask to form a second seal segment.

[0126] Example 16. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 15, wherein the first seal segment is formed using a first sealing technique and the second seal segment is formed used a second seal technique.

[0127] Example 17. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 17, further comprising: controlling a cutting device to cut at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member.

[0128] Example 18. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 17, wherein the energy source and the cutting device are a same laser.

[0129] Example 19. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 1 to 18, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member and the controlling the cutting device includes concurrently sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member and controlling the cutting device.

[0130] Example 20. A system comprising: medical device packaging including a first packaging member and a second packaging member disposed on the first packaging member; a mask adapted / configured to be placed within a predetermined proximity to the medical device packaging, the mask including a window adapted / configured to permit energy to pass therethrough; and a sealing system adapted / configured to emit energy through the window in the mask to cause the first packaging member to be sealed to the second packaging member.

[0131] Example 21. The system of any example herein, in particular example 20, wherein the energy is a laser.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0132] Example 22. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 or 21, wherein the window includes a material that is adapted / configured to permit passage of energy having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths.

[0133] Example 23. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 22, wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to emit ultraviolet (UV) energy to cause an adhesive that is disposed between the first packaging member and the second packaging member to adhere to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to form a seal.

[0134] Example 24. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 23, wherein the seal is peelable.

[0135] Example 25. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 24, wherein the first packaging member is adapted / configured to permit the UV energy to pass therethrough.

[0136] Example 26. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 25, wherein the adhesive is an ultraviolet-curing adhesive.

[0137] Example 27. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 26, wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to pass over the first packaging member multiple times to create multiple seal segments.

[0138] Example 28. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 27, wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to emit the energy in a pattern to form a patterned seal.

[0139] Example 29. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 28, wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to create a gas-permeable seal that includes a channel adapted / configured to permit gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.

[0140] Example 30. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 29, wherein the channel includes a tortuous path.

[0141] Example 31. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 30, wherein the window includes a predetermined pattern and wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to travel along a predetermined path that is associated with the predetermined pattern.

[0142] Example 32. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 31, wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to create a weld seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0143] Example 33. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 32, wherein the first packaging member and the second packaging member are attached together with a first seal segment to form a cavity, wherein the sealing system is adapted / configured to emit energy through the window in the mask to form a second seal segment.

[0144] Example 34. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 33, wherein the first seal segment is formed using a first sealing technique and the second seal segment is formed used a second sealing technique.

[0145] Example 35. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 34, further comprising: a cutting device adapted / configured to cut at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member.

[0146] Example 36. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 20 to 35, wherein the sealing system and the cutting device are a same device.

[0147] Example 37. The system of any example herein, in particular example 35, wherein the sealing system and the cutting device are controlled to concurrently seal the first packaging member to the second packaging member and cut at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member.

[0148] Example 38. A method comprising: providing a first packaging member and a second packaging member; disposing an ultraviolet-activated adhesive between the first packaging member and the second packaging member; disposing a medical device between the first packaging member and the second packaging member; and sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member by causing an energy source to emit ultraviolet energy to activate the ultraviolet-activated adhesive.

[0149] Example 39. The method of any example herein, in particular example 38, wherein the first packaging member is adapted / configured to permit passage of ultraviolet energy.

[0150] Example 40. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 or 38, wherein the energy source is a laser.

[0151] Example 41. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 40, wherein the sealing includes using a mask that includes a window with a material that is adapted / configured to permit passage of energy having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths.

[0152] Example 42. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 41, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member includes creating a peelable seal.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0153] Example 43. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 42, wherein the first packaging member is adapted / configured to permit the ultraviolet energy to pass therethrough.

[0154] Example 44. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 43, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member includes causing the energy source to pass over the first packaging member multiple times to create multiple seal segments.

[0155] Example 45. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 44, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member includes causing the energy source to emit the ultraviolet energy in a pattern to form a patterned seal.

[0156] Example 46. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 45, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member comprising creating a gas-permeable seal that includes a channel adapted / configured to permit gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.

[0157] Example 47. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 46, wherein the channel includes a tortuous path.

[0158] Example 48. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 47, further comprising: applying a sterilization gas to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to cause the sterilization gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.

[0159] Example 49. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 48, wherein the causing the energy source to emit energy includes causing the energy source to travel along a predetermined path.

[0160] Example 50. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 49, wherein the sealing creates a weld seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member.

[0161] Example 51. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 50, wherein the first packaging member and the second packaging member are attached together with a first seal segment and a second seal segment.

[0162] Example 52. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 51, wherein the first seal segment is formed using a first sealing technique and the second seal segment is formed used a second seal technique.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01

[0163] Example 53. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 52, further comprising: controlling a cutting device to cut at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member.

[0164] Example 54. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 53, wherein the energy source and the cutting device are a same laser.

[0165] Example 55. The method of any example herein, in particular examples 38 to 54, wherein the sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member and the controlling the cutting device includes concurrently sealing the first packaging member to the second packaging member and controlling the cutting device.

[0166] Example 56. Medical device packaging comprising: a first packaging member; a second packaging member; and an ultraviolet-activated adhesive disposed between the first packaging member and the second packaging member, the ultraviolet-activated adhesive creating a seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member, the first packaging member and the second packaging member being sealed with the seal such that a cavity is formed to receive a medical device.

[0167] Example 57. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular example 56, wherein the seal is peelable.

[0168] Example 58. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular examples 56 or 57, wherein the first packaging member is adapted / configured to permit ultraviolet energy to pass therethrough.

[0169] Example 59. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular examples 56 to 58, wherein the seal includes a patterned seal.

[0170] Example 60. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular examples 56 to 59, wherein the seal is a gas-permeable seal that includes a channel adapted / configured to permit gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.

[0171] Example 61. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular examples 56 to 60, wherein the channel includes a tortuous path.

[0172] Example 62. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular examples 56 to 61, wherein the seal includes a weld seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member.

[0173] Example 63. The medical device packaging of any example herein, in particular examples 56 to 62, wherein the first packaging member and the second packaging member are attached together with a first seal segment and a second seal segment, wherein theAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 first seal segment is formed using a first sealing technique and the second seal segment is formed used a second sealing technique.

[0174] Example 64. A system comprising: a mask adapted to be placed on medical device packaging; and a sealing system adapted to emit energy toward the medical device packaging to pass through at least a portion of the mask.

[0175] Example 65. The system of any example herein, in particular example 64, wherein the energy is laser energy.

[0176] Example 66. The system of any example herein, in particular example 64 or 65, wherein the mask includes a window that includes a material that is adapted to permit passage of energy having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths.

[0177] Example 67. The system of any example herein, in particular examples 64-66, wherein the sealing system is adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) energy to cause an adhesive that is disposed between a first packaging member and a second packaging member of the medical device packaging to adhere to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to form a seal.

[0178] Depending on the example, certain acts, events, or functions of any of the processes or algorithms described herein can be performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, and / or left out altogether. Thus, in certain examples, not all described acts or events are necessary for the practice of the processes.

[0179] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is intended in its ordinary sense and is generally intended to convey that certain examples include, while other examples do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more examples or that one or more examples necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular example. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are generally synonymous, used in their ordinary sense, and used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term,Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 element, etc. can be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain examples require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present.

[0180] In examples, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single example, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than are expressly recited in that claim. Moreover, any components, features, or steps illustrated and / or described in a particular example herein can be applied to or used with any other example(s). Further, no component, feature, step, or group of components, features, or steps are necessary or indispensable for each example. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the subject matter herein disclosed and claimed below should not be limited by the particular examples described herein.

[0181] Certain ordinal terms (e.g., “first” or “second”) may be provided for ease of reference and do not necessarily imply physical characteristics or ordering. Therefore, as used herein, an ordinal term (e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” etc.) used to modify an element, such as a structure, a component, an operation, etc., does not necessarily indicate priority or order of the element with respect to any other element, but rather can generally distinguish the element from another element having a similar or identical name (but for use of the ordinal term). In addition, as used herein, indefinite articles (“a” and “an”) can indicate “one or more” rather than “one.” Further, an operation performed “based on” a condition or event can also be performed based on one or more other conditions or events not explicitly recited.

[0182] Unless otherwise defined, terms (including technical and / or scientific terms) used herein can have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which examples belong. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, can be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0183] The spatially relative terms “outer,” “inner,” “upper,” “lower,” “below,” “above,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and similar terms, can be used herein for ease of description to describe the relations between one element or component and another element or component as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms can encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, in the case where a device shown in the drawing is turned over, the device positioned “below” or “beneath” another device can be placed “above” another device. Accordingly, the illustrativeAttorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 term “below” can include both the lower and upper positions. The device can also be oriented in the other direction, and thus the spatially relative terms can be interpreted differently depending on the orientations.

[0184] Unless otherwise expressly stated, comparative and / or quantitative terms, such as “less,” “more,” “greater,” and the like, can encompass the concepts of equality. For example, “less” can mean not only “less” in the strictest mathematical sense, but also “less than or equal to.”

Claims

Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for sealing packaging, the system comprising: medical device packaging including a first packaging member and a second packaging member disposed on the first packaging member; a mask adapted to be placed within a predetermined proximity to the medical device packaging, the mask including a window adapted to permit energy to pass therethrough; and a sealing system adapted to emit energy through the window in the mask to cause the first packaging member to be sealed to the second packaging member.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the energy is a laser.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the window includes a material that is adapted to permit passage of energy having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths.

4. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the sealing system is adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) energy to cause an adhesive that is disposed between the first packaging member and the second packaging member to adhere to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to form a seal.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the seal is peelable.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the first packaging member is adapted to permit the UV energy to pass therethrough.

7. The system of claim 4, wherein the adhesive is an ultraviolet-curing adhesive.

8. The system of any of claims 1-7, wherein the sealing system is adapted to pass over the first packaging member multiple times to create multiple seal segments.

9. The system of any of claims 1-8, wherein the sealing system is adapted to emit the energy in a pattern to form a patterned seal.

10. The system of any of claims 1-9, wherein the sealing system is adapted to create a gas-permeable seal that includes a channel adapted to permit gas to pass through the gas- permeable seal.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the channel includes a tortuous path.

12. The system of any of claims 1-11, wherein the window includes a predetermined pattern and wherein the sealing system is adapted to travel along a predetermined path that is associated with the predetermined pattern.

13. The system of any of claims 1-12, wherein the sealing system is adapted to create a weld seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member.

14. The system of any of claims 1-13, wherein the first packaging member and the second packaging member are attached together with a first seal segment to form a cavity, wherein the sealing system is adapted to emit energy through the window in the mask to form a second seal segment.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the first seal segment is formed using a first sealing technique and the second seal segment is formed used a second sealing technique.

16. The system of any of claims 1-15, further comprising: a cutting device adapted to cut at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the sealing system and the cutting device are a same device.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the sealing system and the cutting device are controlled to concurrently seal the first packaging member to the second packaging member and cut at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member.

19. A system comprising: a mask adapted to be placed on medical device packaging; and a sealing system adapted to emit energy toward the medical device packaging to pass through at least a portion of the mask.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the energy is laser energy.

21. The system of claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the mask includes a window that includes a material that is adapted to permit passage of energy having a wavelength within a predetermined range of wavelengths.Attorney Docket No.: ADV-23590WO01 22. The system of any of claims 19-21, wherein the sealing system is adapted to emit ultraviolet (UV) energy to cause an adhesive that is disposed between a first packaging member and a second packaging member of the medical device packaging to adhere to at least one of the first packaging member or the second packaging member to form a seal.

23. Medical device packaging comprising: a first packaging member; a second packaging member; and an ultraviolet-activated adhesive disposed between the first packaging member and the second packaging member, the ultraviolet-activated adhesive creating a seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member, the first packaging member and the second packaging member being sealed with the seal such that a cavity is formed to receive a medical device.

24. The medical device packaging of claim 23, wherein the seal is peelable.

25. The medical device packaging of claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the first packaging member is adapted to permit ultraviolet energy to pass therethrough.

26. The medical device packaging of any of claims 23-25, wherein the seal includes a patterned seal.

27. The medical device packaging of any of claims 23-26, wherein the seal is a gas- permeable seal that includes a channel adapted to permit gas to pass through the gas-permeable seal.

28. The medical device packaging of claim 27, wherein the channel includes a tortuous path.

29. The medical device packaging of any of claims 23-28, wherein the seal includes a weld seal between the first packaging member and the second packaging member.

30. The medical device packaging of any of claims 23-29, wherein the first packaging member and the second packaging member are attached together with a first seal segment and a second seal segment, wherein the first seal segment is formed using a first sealing technique and the second seal segment is formed used a second sealing technique.

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