Sampling port assembly

Abstract

A sampling port assembly including a port housing and one or more core members. The port housing may be configured to be coupled to a container and may include a housing sidewall defining an inner surface, the housing sidewall extending from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container. The port housing may include a housing shoulder positioned at the distal end of the housing sidewall. The port housing may include a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall. The port housing may include a housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the sampling passage. The housing floor may be positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder. The one or more core members may be positioned proximate the sampling passage.

Description

[0001] SAMPLING PORT ASSEMBLY

[0002] Various containers such as barrels, drums, intermediate bulk container (‘TBC’) totes, etc., may include at least one entry point to reach a substance contained therein. Entry point(s) may include a cap or a small opening, port, etc. In many cases (e.g., if the containers are holding food or liquid for consumption by a living being, etc.), the containers may need to meet cleanliness and / or safety standards. Sampling of the substance in the container may be required to meet cleanliness and / or safety standards The entry point(s) into the container may need to meet, certain cleanliness and safety standards. For industries and applications where the container and / or the entry point should, or must, be sanitary, the entry point may include a port with a sanitary sampling assembly. Further, it may be beneficial to industries or applications to have a sanitary sampling assembly that also allows for aseptic removal of sample(s) of the substance within the container. Aseptic removal of sample(s) may advantageously allow a user to, for example, perform testing on the sample(s) without contaminating the entire container. This sampling method is also beneficial for industries where the substance is being aged over time, where sample(s) are taken periodically over time for testing (e.g., chemical, biological, etc.), where sample(s) are taken only once, etc. Still further, some industries require sale or distribution of the entire contents of the container if a single sample is taken, unless the sample is removed aseptically. Aseptic removal of sample(s) may advantageously allow a user to, for example, perform testing on the sample(s) without requiring sale of the entire contents of the container

[0003] In general, the present disclosure provides various embodiments of a sampling port assembly for a container The sampling port assembly may include various sampling channels that a user may employ to remove a sample(s) of the substance from a container. Such removal of a sample from a sampling port assembly is beneficial to various industries and applications, but. may be especially beneficial to applications storing substances for consumption by a living being.

[0004] In one or more aspects, a sampling port assembly may include a port housing configured to be coupled to a container. The port housing may include a housing sidewall defining an inner surface. The housing sidewall may extend from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container. The port housingmay further include a housing shoulder positioned at the distal end of the housing sidewall and extending away from an outer surface of the housing sidewall. The port housing may further include a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall. The sampling passage may define at least one sampling passage sidewall. The port housing may further include a housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the at least, one sampling passage sidewall. The housing floor may define a gap distance between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall. The housing floor may be offset from the housing shoulder such that the housing floor is positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder. The sampling port assembly may further include one or more core members configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage.

[0005] In one or more aspects, a container assembly may include a container and a sampling port assembly. The sampling port assembly may include a port housing configured to be coupled to the container. The port housing may include a housing sidewall defining an inner surface. The housing sidewall may extend from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container. The port housing may- further include a housing shoulder positioned at the distal end of the housing sidewall and extending away from an outer surface of the housing sidewall. The port housing may further include a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall. The sampling passage may define at least one sampling passage sidewall. The port housing may further include a housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall. The housing floor may define a gap distance between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall. The housing floor may be offset from the housing shoulder such that the housing floor is positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder. The sampling port assembly may further include one or more core members configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage.

[0006] In one or more aspects, a method of removing a sample from a container using the sampling port assembly as described herein may include piercing a sampling channel of the sampling port assembly using a needle. The method may further include removing the sample from the container via the needle. The method may further include removing the needle from the sampling channel.In one or more aspects, a method of manufacturing the sampling port assembly as described herein may include molding the port housing. The method may further include molding the one or more core members.

[0007] All headings provided herein are for the convenience of the reader and should not be used to limit the meaning of any text that follows the heading, unless so specified.

[0008] The terms “comprises” and variations thereof do not have a limiting meaning where these terms appear in the description and claims Such terms will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other' step or element or group of steps or elements.

[0009] The words “’preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the disclosure that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances; however, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure.

[0010] In this application, terms such as “a,” “an,” and “the” are not intended to refer to only a singular entity but include the general class of which a specific example may be used for illustration. The terms “a,” “"an,” and “’the” are used interchangeably with the term “at least one.” The phrases “at least one of’ and “comprises at least one of’ followed by a list refers to any one of the items in the list and any combination of two or more items in the list

[0011] As used herein, the term “or” is generally employed in its usual sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise

[0012] The term “and / or” means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0013] As used herein in connection with a measured quantity, the term “about” refers to that variation in the measured quantity as would be expected by the skilled artisan making the measurement and exercising a level of care commensurate with the objective of the measurement and the precision of die measuring equipment used. Herein, “up to” a number (e.g., up to 50) includes the number (e.g., 50).

[0014] Also herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).Also herein, the term ‘'■sanitary” is meant to mean characterized by or readily kept in cleanliness which may pass any relevant safety standards or enforcement requirements, regardless of industry or application. The term “aseptic” is meant to mean a process that does not introduce the possibility for contamination with microorganisms. The term “sterile” is meant to mean free from living organisms. The term “sample” is meant to mean one or more samples, and should be understood to include, e.g., single samples, representative samples, etc taken at any time (e g., once, more than once, on a set schedule, etc ).

[0015] These and other aspects of the present disclosure will be apparent from the detailed description below. In no event, however, should the above summaries be construed as limitations on the claimed subject matter, which subject matter is defined solely by the attached claims, as may be amended during prosecution.

[0016] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Throughout the specification, reference is made to the appended drawings, where like reference numerals designate like elements, and wherein:

[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a container assembly including a sampling port assembly and a container

[0019] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the sampling port assembly of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the sampling port assembly of FIG. I.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the port housing of the sampling port assembly of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the port housing of the sampling port assembly of FIG 1.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a top view of the port housing of the sampling port assembly of FIG. I.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the port housing of the sampling port assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 8. is a side view of the port housing of the sampling port assembly of FIG. 1 FIG. 9 is a side cross-section view of the port housing of the sampling assembly of FIG. 6 along line A-A.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a perspective cross-section view of the port housing of the sampling assembly of FIG. 6 along line B-BFIG. 11 is a perspective cross-section view of the port housing of the sampling assembly of FIG. 6 along line C-C.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a perspective cross-section view of the sampling assembly of FIG. 1 along line D-D.

[0027] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the center core member of FIG 1.

[0028] FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the center core member of FIG. 1.

[0029] FIG. 15 is a top view of the center core member of FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the center core member of FIG. I.

[0031] FIG. 17 is a bottom view of the center core member of FIG. 1.

[0032] FIG. 18A is a schematic perspective view of a needle tip

[0033] FIG. 18B is a schematic perspective view of another needle tip.

[0034] FIG. 19 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of aseptically removing a sample from a container using the sampling port assembly FIG. I.

[0035] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of manufacturing the sampling port assembly FIG. 1.

[0036] FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view of a sanitary cover for use with the sampling port assembly of FIG 1.

[0037] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In general, the present disclosure provides various embodiments of a sampling port assembly The sampling port assembly may include a port housing and one or more core members. The port housing may be configured to be coupled to a container. The port housing may include a housing sidewall, a housing shoulder, a sampling passage, and a housing floor The one or more core members may be configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage.

[0039] Known container ports such as food or drink barrel drum ports may include valves to allow the substance inside to be drawn out of the container, but such val ves do not allow for aseptic removal of the substance from the container Many industries (eg., the maple syrup industry) may require sale or distribution of the entire contents of the container within a certain time window if a single sample is taken, unless the sample is removed aseptically. Thus, because known barrel drum ports are not designed to aseptically remove a sample, when a sample istaken, the entirety of the contents of the container must be sold within a certain time window This may lead to sale of product that is not aged as long as preferred, or to loss of the entire contents of the container.

[0040] One or more embodiments of sampling port assemblies described herein may provide various advantages over known ports. For example, the ability to aseptically remove a sample from a container may allow a seller to age or store their product for longer periods of time and test the product periodically over time, without forfeiting the entirety of the product within the container Such a sampling port assembly may include a port housing and a center core member as described herein.

[0041] Embodiments of the disclosure are defined in the claims, however, herein there is provided a non-exhaustive listing of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0042] Example Exl. A sampling port assembly, comprising: a port housing configured to be coupled to a container and comprising: a housing sidewall defining an inner surface, the housing sidewall extending from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container, a housing shoulder positioned at the distal end of the housing sidewall and extending away from an outer surface of the housing sidewall; a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall, wherein the sampling passage defines at least one sampling passage sidewall: and a housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, the housing floor defining a gap distance between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, wherein the housing floor is offset from the housing shoulder such that the housing floor is positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder; and one or more core members configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage.

[0043] Example Ex 2: The sampling port assembly of Example Exl, wherein the gap distance is variable as measured along the at least one sampling passage sidewall.

[0044] Example Ex 3: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Exl-Ex2, wherein the sampling port assembly is configured to allow aseptic removal of a sample from the containerExample Ex4: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Exl-Ex3, wherein the at least one sampling passage sidewall comprises: an exterior sampling passage sidewall; and at least one interior sampling passage sidewall coupled to the exterior sampling passage sidewall, the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall defining a plurality of sampling channels, wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members, each core member of the plurality of core members configured to be positioned proximate one of the plurality of sampling channels.

[0045] Example Ex 5: The sampling port assembly of Example Ex4, wherein the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall comprises: a first interior sampling passage sidewall; a second interior sampling passage sidewall; and a third interior sampling passage sidewall, wherein each of the first, second, and third interior sampling passage sidewalls extend from the exterior sampling passage sidewall towards a center of the sampling passage and are coupled at the center of the sampling passage such that they define a first sampling channel, a second sampling channel, and a third sampling channel of the plurality of sampling channels, and wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members comprising: a first core member; a second core member; and a third core member, wherein the first core member is configured to be positioned proximate the first sampling channel, the second core member is configured to be positioned proximate the second sampling channel, and the third core member is configured to be positioned proximate the third sampling channel.

[0046] Example Ex6: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Exl-Ex5, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling passage distal opening positioned distal from the housing floor.

[0047] Example Ex7: The sampling port assembly of Example Ex6, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling axis along a centerline of the sampling passage that extends through and includes a length of the sampling passage and the sampling passage distal opening.

[0048] Example Ex8: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Ex6-Ex7, wherein the sampling passage includes at least one sampling channel, and wherein the at least one sampling channel comprises a sampling channel entry point, positioned at the sampling passage distal opening.

[0049] Example Ex9: The sampling port assembly of Example Ex8, wherein the one or more core members is configured to be pierceable and resealable.Example Ex 10: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Ex8-Ex9, wherein the sampling channel entry point is positioned at a geometric center of the one or more core members at die sampling passage distal opening.

[0050] Example Exit: The sampling port assembly of Example Ex6, wherein the sampling passage includes a plurality of sampling channels and the one or more core members includes a plurality of core members, each of the plurality of core members configured to be pierceable to remove a sample from the container, and each of the plurality of core members configured to be resealable after the sample is removed, and each of the plurality of sampling channels comprising a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening proximate each core member of the plurality of core members

[0051] Example Exl2: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Ex8 and Exl 1, further comprising a sanitary’ cover, and wherein the sanitary cover is positioned proxi ate the sampling passage distal opening such that it covers an external face of the sampling passage distal opening.

[0052] Example Exl 3: The sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Exl -Ex 12, wherein the port housing does not extend outward past an exterior surface of the container, such that the port housing is flush with the exterior surface of the container or is at an elevation below the elevation of the exterior surface.

[0053] Example Ex14: A container assembly comprising: a container; and a sampling port assembly comprising: a port housing configured to be coupled to the container and comprising: a housing sidewall defining an inner surface, the housing sidewall extending from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container, a housing shoulder positioned at the distal end of the housing sidewall and extending away from an outer surface of the housing sidewall; a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall, wherein the sampling passage defines at least one sampling passage sidewall; and a housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, the housing floor defining a gap distance between die inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, wherein the housing floor is offset from the housing shoulder such that the housing floor is positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder; and one or more core members configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passageExample Exl5: The container assembly of Example Ex 14, wherein the container is a 55- gallon drum.

[0054] Example Exl6: The container assembly of any one of Examples Exl4-Exl 5, wherein the gap distance is variable as measured along the at least one sampling passage sidewall.

[0055] Example Ex17: The container assembly of any one of Examples Ex14-Ex16, wherein the sampling port assembly is configured to allow aseptic removal of a sample from the container.

[0056] Example Exl8: The container assembly of any one of Examples Exl4-Ex17, wherein the at least one sampling passage sidewall comprises, an exterior sampling passage sidewall, and at least one interior sampling passage sidewall coupled to the exterior sampling passage sidewall, the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall defining a plurality of sampling channels, wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members, each core member of the plurality of core members configured to be positioned proximate one of the plurality of sampling channels.

[0057] Example Ex 19: The container assembly of Example Ex 18, wherein the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall comprises: a first interior sampling passage sidewall: a second interior sampling passage sidewall; and a third interior sampling passage sidewall, wherein each of the first, second, and third interior sampling passage sidewall extend from the exterior sampling passage sidewall towards a center of the sampling passage and are coupled at the center of the sampling passage such that they define a first sampling channel, a second sampling channel, and a third sampling channel of the plurality of sampling channels, and wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members comprising: a first core member: a second core member; and a third core member, wherein the first core member is configured to be positioned proximate the first sampling channel, the second core member is configured to be positioned proximate the second sampling channel, and the third core member is configured to be positioned proximate the third sampling channel.

[0058] Example Ex20: The container assembly of any one of Examples Exl4-Exl9, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling passage distal opening positioned distal from the housing floor.

[0059] Example Ex21: The container assembly of Example Ex20, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling axis along a centerline of the sampling passage that extends through and includes a length of the sampling passage and the sampling passage distal opening.Example Ex22: The container assembly of any one of Examples Ex20-Ex21, wherein the sampling passage includes at least one sampling channel, and wherein the at least one sampling channel comprises a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening.

[0060] Example Ex23: The container assembly of Example Ex22, wherein the one or more core members is configured to be pierceable and resealable.

[0061] Example Ex24: The container assembly of any one of Examples Ex22-Ex23, wherein the sampling channel entry point is positioned at a geometric center of the one or more core members at the sampling passage distal opening.

[0062] Example Ex25: The container assembly of Example Ex20, wherein the sampling passage includes a plurality of sampling channels and the one or more core members includes a plurality of core members, each of the plurality of core members configured to be pierceable to remove a sample from the container, and each of the plurality of core members configured to be resealable after the sample is removed, and each of the plurality of sampling channels comprising a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening proximate each core member of the plurality of core members.

[0063] Example Ex26: The container assembly of any one of Examples Ex22 and Ex25, further comprising a sanitary cover, and wherein the sanitary- cover is positioned proximate the sampling passage distal opening such that it covers an external face of the sampling passage distal opening.

[0064] Example Ex27: The container assembly of any one of Examples Exl4-Ex26, wherein the port housing does not extend outward past an exterior surface of the container, such that the port housing is flush with the exterior surface of the container or is at an elevation below the elevation of the exterior surface.

[0065] Example Ex28: A method of removing a sample from a container using the sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Exl-Ex27, the method comprising: piercing a sampling channel of the sampling port assembly using a needle, removing the sample from the container via the needle; and removing the needle from the sampling channel

[0066] Example Ex29: The method of Example Ex28, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling passage distal opening at a sampling passage distal end positioned distal to a center of the container, and wherein piercing a sampling channel using a needle comprises inserting theneedle along a channel axis defined by a length of the sampling channel, the channel axis including a geometric center of the one or more core members at the sampling passage distal opening.

[0067] Example Ex30: A method of manufacturing the sampling port assembly of any one of Examples Exl-Ex27, the method comprising: molding the port housing; and molding the one or more core members.

[0068] Example Ex31: The method of Example Ex30, wherein the port housing is constructed out. of material comprising a plastic, and wherein the one or more core members is constructed out of material comprising an elastomer.

[0069] Container assembly

[0070] FIG. 1 a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a container assembly 101 The container assembly 101 may include a sampling port assembly 10 and a container 100. The sampling port assembly 10 may be configured to allow aseptic removal of a sample (e.g., food, liquid, other substance, etc.) from the container 100. This may advantageously allow sample removal without contaminating the entire contents within the container 100.

[0071] The sampling port assembly 10 may include a port housing 12 and one or more core members 14. In one or more embodiments, the one or more core members 14 may be sanitary, as discussed further herein. In alternative embodiments, the sampling port assembly 10 is sanitary.

[0072] The container 100 may include a standard 2-inch bung opening 90 In alternative embodiments, the container 100 may include an opening that defines a circle, square, rectangle, hexagon, etc The opening may be sized to allow aseptic coupling of the sampling port assembly 10 to the container 100.

[0073] The container 100 may define an external surface 102. In some embodiments, the sampling port assembly 10 may not be flush with the exterior surface 102. For example, the sampling port assembly 10 may be at an elevation below the exterior surface 102 such that the sampling port assembly 10 may not extend outwards past the exterior surface 102. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the dashed line illustrates a wall of the container 100 that, extends around a perimeter of part of the exterior surface 102 of the container 100 and protrudes away from a center of the container, X. Thus, the wall re-defines the exterior surface 102 of the container 100, and the sampling port assembly 10 is positioned at an elevation below the exterior surface 102. Such adashed line wall is common, for example, in manufactured drum containers. Further, the sampling port assembly 10 may be at an elevation above the solid face of the exterior surface 102, but remain below the elevation of the exterior surface 102 of the dashed line wall, such that the sampling port assembly 10 is at an elevation below a portion of the exterior surface 102 that is furthest away from the center of the container,

[0074] In alternative embodiments (not shown), the sampling port assembly 10 may be configured to be flush with the exterior surface 102 of the container 100 such that the sampling port assembly 10 may not extend outwards past the exterior surface 102.

[0075] Having the sampling port assembly 10 flush with or at an elevation below the exterior surface 102 may advantageously allow for stacking of the containers 100 because there are no protrusions extending beyond the exterior surface 102. of the container 100 (e.g., no protrusions extending beyond the portion of the exterior surface 102 that is furthest away from the center of the container, X). Further, having the sampling port assembly 10 flush with the exterior surface 102 or at an elevation below the exterior surface 102 may advantageously protect the sampling port assembly 10 and its components from the ambient environment and / or from damage.

[0076] More than one container 100 may be stacked in any possible orientation (e.g., horizontal, vertical, off-center), and the sampling port assembly 10 advantageously may not. interfere with the stackability of each of the containers 100.

[0077] Port Housing

[0078] The port housing 12 may include any suitable port housing or drum port (e g., QualiTru TRUSTREAM (TM) Drum Port (QualiTru Sampling Systems, Oakdale, Minnesota)). The port housing 12 may be configured to be coupled to the container 100. The port housing 12 may be coupled to the container 100 in a variety of ways, such as, for example, a threaded engagement as shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 9-12. Other examples of coupling the port housing 12 to the container 100 may include a snap-fit, an interference fit, use of an adhesive therebetween, welding, clamps, screws, rivets, etc. The port housing 12 may be coupled to the container 100 at any location on the container 100 As shown in FIG. 1, the port housing 12 is coupled to the container 100 on one flat face of the container, but it is intended that the port housing 12 may be coupled to the container 100 anywhere. For example, the port housing 12 may be coupled to the container 100 on a different flat face than illustrated. Further, for example, the port housing 12may be coupled to the container 100 on a non-flat. surface In embodiments where the port housing 12 is coupled to the container 100 on a non-flat surface, the port housing 12 may be shaped to contour to the non-flat surface.

[0079] The port housing 12 and the interior of the container 100 may remain sanitary in any embodiment. For example, the coupling of the port housing 12 and the container 100 may be made sanitary via heat application (e.g., ""clean-in-place,” "‘sanitize in place,” pasteurization), chemical cleaning, etc Further, the port housing 12 and the container 100 may be made sanitary, either individually or together, via heat application, chemical cleaning, etc.

[0080] The port housing 12 may include a housing sidewall 24 extending from a proximal end 24-1 to a distal end 24-2, as illustrated in FIGS. 8-12, The proximal end 24-1 may be positioned proximate to the center of the container, X (FIG. 1). The distal end 24-2 may be positioned distal to the center of the container, X The distal end 24-2 may be the most distal point of the port housing 12 (e.g., the distal end 24-2 includes an embossed logo if one is included, e.g., logo 9 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 8-9). The housing sidewall 24 may extend in an axial direction along an axis 40 (FIGS. 2, 8). The housing sidewall 24 may define a housing sidewall length, L (FIG. 9). The housing sidewall length, L, may be between any suitable length. The port housing 12 is illustrated with a cylindrical sidewall 24, but it is intended that various port, shapes are conceivable within the description herein. For example, the housing sidewall 24 may define a cross-sectional shape in a lateral direction transverse to the axis 40 that is an oval, a square, a rectangle, a hexagon, etc,

[0081] In one or more embodiments, the housing sidewall 24 may slope or taper on an interior surface 25-1 of the housing sidewall 24 (FIGS. 9-12). The interior surface 25-1 may, for example, define a relatively larger cross-sectional dimension proximate the proximal end 24-1 and a relatively smaller cross-sectional dimension proximate the distal end 24-2. A sloped or tapered interior surface 25-1 as described herein may advantageously provide an aseptic coupling between the port housing 12 and the container 100. The interior surface 25-1 may slope or taper in the axial direction towards a housing floor 28 at any suitable angle. In alternative embodiments, the interior surface 25-1 may slope or taper in the axial direction towards the housing floor 28 at an angle of about 1 degree, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees, about 5 degrees, greater than 5 degrees, less than 1 degree, etc.The housing sidewall 24 may define an outer surface 25-2 (FIGS. 8-12). The port housing 12 may include a thread 30 on the outer surface 25-2. The thread 30 may advantageously allow the port housing 12 to be coupled to and / or installed on the container 100. The thread 30 may be beveled, rounded, or any other shape configured to engage with like thread and create a screw-fit therebetween. There may be any number of thread rotations extending between the proximal end 24-1 end and the distal end 24-2, and the threads 30 may extend any distance between the proximal end 24-1 and the distal end 24-2 The screw-fit may be sanitary such that it meets any- required safety standards (e.g., food safety standards). The thread on both the port housing 12 and the container 100 and their engagement with one another may allow enough pressure and / or torque to be used to mount and hold the sampling port assembly 10 to the container 100 within applicable industry standards and to maintain a sanitary- environment.

[0082] In one or more embodiments, the housing sidewall 24 may define one or more protrusions 55 (FIGS. 2, 4, 6, 10-12). The one or more protrusions 55 may advantageously allow a user to more easily grip (via the user's hand or another tool) the port housing 12 and screw the port housing 12 onto the container 100. One such tool may be a common drum plug wrench, (e.g., TOUGH GUY (TM) Drum Bung Plug Wrench (Grainger Industrial Supply, Lake Forest, Illinois)).

[0083] The one or more protrusions 55 may define an inner housing sidewall 23 (FIGS. 2, 4, 9-12) such that the protrusions 55 are hollow. In alternative embodiments, the protrusions 55 may not be hollow (e.g, they may be solid) The inner housing sidewall 23 may be coupled to and extend from the housing sidewall 24. In one or more embodiments, the inner housing sidewall 23 may slope or taper on an interior surface 23-1 (FIG. 9) of the inner housing sidewall 23. The interior surface 23-1 may, for example, define a relatively smaller cross-sectional dimension proximate the proximal end 24-1 and a relatively larger cross-sectional dimension proximate the distal end 24-2. A sloped or tapered interior surface 23-1 as described herein may advantageously drain fluid trapped within the port housing 12 towards the front face of the port housing 12. Fluid may be trapped within the port housing 12 as a result of user error, environmental effects (e.g., rain, condensation, other external fluids), other external effects (e.g., rough handling during transportation), etc. The sloped or tapered interior surface 23-1 may advantageously drain trapped fluid away from the container 100 (e.g., when the axis 40 is horizontal or generally horizontal to the ground). The interior surface 23-1 may slope or taper inthe axial direction towards the distal end 24-2 at any suitable angle In alternative embodiments, the interior surface 23-1 may slope or taper in the axial direction towards the distal end 24-2 at an angle of about 1 degree, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees, about 5 degrees, greater than 5 degrees, less than 1 degree, etc.

[0084] The port housing 12 may further include a housing shoulder 20 positioned at the distal end 24-2 of the housing sidewall 24 and extending away from an outer surface 25-2 (FIGS. 8-12) of the housing sidewall 24, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and 8-12. The housing shoulder 20 may include a front face 20A (FIG. 2) and an exterior sidewall 22 (FIGS 2-12). The front face 20A may be configured to be flush with or at an elevation below' the exterior surface 102 (FIG. 1) of the container 100. The exterior sidewall 22 may be configured to be located at a depth relative to the exterior surface 102 of the container 100 (e.g., a divot or depression within the exterior surface 102 of the container 100) The exterior sidewall 22 may include ribbing or a non-smooth surface. Such ribbing or non-smooth surface may advantageously allow a user (or a tool, such as the drum plug wrench described herein, that the user controls) to grip the housing shoulder 20 and attach (e g., screw) the port housing 12 into the container 100.

[0085] The port housing 12 may further include the housing floor 28 (FIGS. 2-7 and 9-12). The housing floor 28 may be positioned between the proximal end 24-1 and the distal end 24-2 of the housing sidewall 24, and may extend from the housing sidewall 24. The housing floor 28 may be offset from the housing shoulder 20 such that the housing floor 28 is positioned closer to the center of the container, X, than the housing shoulder 20. The offset, O, (FIG. 9), may be any suitable depth. The offset, O, may advantageously allow the sampling passage 18 (discussed further herein) to remain at an elevation below the distal end 24-2. The housing floor 28 may extend from the housing sidewall 24 and define a floor aperture 29 (FIGS 3, 5, 7, 10, 11). The housing floor 28 may be liquid-impermeable and gas-impermeable. The housing floor 28 may define a housing floor thickness, Z’(FIG. 9). The housing floor thickness, T, may be any suitable thickness

[0086] Additionally, the housing floor 28 may define a void depth, V, (FIG. 9) between the housing floor 28 and the proximal end 24-1 The void depth, V, may advantageously promote the aseptic coupling of the port housing 12 to the container 100. For example, the housing sidewall 24 may produce an outward force against the container 100. The housing floor 28 may bepositioned at any location between the proximal end 24-1 and the distal end 24-2, e g., pursuant to sampling passage constraints as discussed further herein.

[0087] The port housing 12 may further include a sampling passage 18 (FIGS. 2, 4, 6, 9-12) positioned within the housing sidewall 24. The sampling passage 18 may define at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 (FIGS. 2, 4). The at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may be coupled to and extend from the housing floor 28 towards the distal end 24-2. The at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may extend to an elevation below that of the distal end 24-2, such that the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 does not extend past the distal end 24-2. The housing floor 28 may define a variable gap distance, G, between any of: the inner surface 25-1, the interior surface 23-1, and any intervening surface between the inner surface 25-1 and the interior surface 23-1, and the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 (FIG. 6). Thus, the housing floor 28 may be coupled to and extend between the inner surface 25-1 and the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34, and the housing floor 28 may be coupled to and extend between the interior surface 23-1 and the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34. The sampling passage 18 may extend from the housing floor 28 and within the housing sidewall 24 of the port housing 12.

[0088] The at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may be cylindrical as illustrated, but it is intended that various sampling passage sidewall 34 shapes are conceivable within the description herein. For example, the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may define a cross-sectional shape in a lateral direction transverse to the axis 40 that is an oval, a square, a rectangle, a hexagon, etc. The at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may be symmetric with the housing sidewall 24 of the port housing 12 (not shown). In embodiments v / here the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 is symmetric with the housing sidewall 24 of the port housing 12, such symmetry may advantageously maintain a sanitary environment, at least because the space between the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 and the housing sidewall 24 may be minimized.

[0089] In one or more embodiments, the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may be asymmetric with the housing sidewall 24 of the port housing 12 (as shown) In embodiments where the at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 is asymmetric with the housing sidewall 24 of the port housing 12, such asymmetry may advantageously allow a user to more easily grip the port housing 12 and screw it onto the container 100, as discussed hereinThe sampling passage 18 may define a sampling passage proximal opening 38 at an end of the sampling passage 18 that is proximate the housing floor 28 (and / or proximate the floor aperture 29) (FIGS. 5. 7, 10, 11). The sampling passage proximal opening 38 may be open to the interior of the container 100. The sampling passage 18 may define a sampling passage distal opening 39 at an end of the sampling passage 18 that is distal from the housing floor 28 (FIGS.

[0090] 4, 10- 12). The sampling passage distal opening 39 may be open to the interior of the container 100 through the sampling passage 18.

[0091] Each of the sampling passage openings 38, 39 may be smaller than a perimeter 18A (FIG.

[0092] 6) of the sampling passage 18 at the housing floor 28. Each of the sampling passage openings 38, 39 may be the same size at the perimeter ISA of the sampling passage 18 at the housing floor 28. In embodiments where either or both of the sampling passage openings 38, 39 is smaller than the perimeter 18A of the sampling passage 18 at the end proximate the container, the smaller sampling passage opening(s) 38, 39 may advantageously minimize risk of leaking or contamination. In embodiments where either or both of the sampling passage openings 38, 39 is the same size as the perimeter 18A of the sampling passage 18 at the housing floor 28, the equal sampling passage opening(s) 8, 39 may advantageously reduce the amount of material needed to manufacture the sampling passage 18 and may allow for ease of manufacturing the sampling passage 18.

[0093] The sampling passage 18 may have a constant major distance or a variable major distance, where the major distance is the largest distance measured across the sampling passage 18 in a direction transverse to a length of the passage (e.g., in the lateral direction) The sampling passage 18 defines the axis 40 (FIG. 1), also known as a sampling axis 40, along a centerline of the sampling passage 18 that extends through and includes a length of the sampling passage 18 and the sampling passage opening(s) 38, 39. The sampling passage 18 may define a sole sampling channel (not shown) that extends through the sampling passage 18.

[0094] The at least one sampling passage sidewall 34 may define an exterior sampling passage sidewall (34) and at least one interior sampling passage sidewall 35 (e.g., 35-1, 35-2, 35-5 as illustrated in FIGS. 2, 4, 6). Each of the sidewalls 34, 35, may be coupled to and extend from the housing floor 28 towards the distal end 24~2 as described herein, such that at least one the interior sampling passage sidewall 35 is the same height as the exterior sampling passage sidewall 34 The at least one interior sampling passage sidewall 35 may include a first interiorsampling passage sidewall 35-1, a second interior sampling passage sidewall 35-2, and a third interior sampling passage sidewall 35-3.

[0095] The at least one interior sampling passage sidewall (s) 35 may define a plurality of sampling channels 19 (e.g. 19-1, 19-2, 19-5 as illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7). For example, each of the first, second, and third interior sampling passage sidewalls 35-1, 35-2, and 35-3 extend from the exterior sampling passage sidewall 34 towards a center of the sampling passage 18 and are coupled at the center of the sampling passage 18. Thus, the first, second, and third interior sampling passage sidewalls 35-1, 35-2, and 35-3 define a first sampling channel 19-1, a second sampling channel 19-2, and a third sampling channel 19-3. Each of the first, second, and third sampling channels 19-1, 19-2, 19-3 extend through the sampling passage 18. Each of the first, second, and third sampling channels 19-1, 19-2, 19-3 includes a sampling channel entry' point 44 (e.g., 44-1, 44-2, 44-3, FIG. 4) positioned at the sampling passage distal opening 39 The sampling channel entry point 44 may be positioned at a geometric center of the one or more sampling channels 19 at the sampling passage distal opening 39. Such a central position may advantageously assist with sample removal from the container 100 without impinging upon the one or more interior sampling passage sidewall(s) 35. In alternative embodiments, the sampling channel entry point 44 may be positioned off-geometric center of the one or more sampling channels 19 at the sampling passage distal opening 39.

[0096] I'he sampling passage 18 can include any suitable number of sampling channels 19. In one or more embodiments, the sampling passage 18 may include at least one sampling channel 19. In one or more embodiments, the sampling passage 18 may include at least two sampling channels 19. The sampling channel 19 may be configured to be pierceable to remove a sample from the container 100. The sampling channel 19 may be pierced by, for example, a needle. Any knowm needle may be usable with the present disclosure, as discussed further herein. In alternative embodiments, there may be between one and six sampling channels 19, or more than seven sampling channels 19, which may allow for different sized sampling port assemblies 10 for different containers 100. Each of the sampling channels 19 may be configured to be used to aseptically remove a sample once

[0097] In one or more embodiments, each of the at least one sampling channel entry points 44 may be positioned on an individual sampling axis 36 (e.g., 36-1, 36-2, 36-6, FIG 4) The sampling axis 36 may extend along a centerline of the one or more sampling channels 19 along alength of the one or more sampling channels 19 The sampling axis 36 may extend along the axis 40 (e.g., when there is a sole sampling channel 19, not shown).

[0098] A symmetric arrangement of sampling channels 19 may advantageously allow for ease of use, as each sampling channel 19 will be in a predictable pattern relative to the axis 40. Further, each sampling channel 19 will be at the same angle relative to the axis 40, which may allow for ease of use and consistent use. In one or more embodiments, the angle from the axis 40 to a sampling axis 36 may be zero degrees, such that there is no angle between the sampling axis 36 and the axis 40. Parallel sampling and channel axes 36, 40 may advantageously allow ease of use and ease of sample removal. In alternative embodiments, the axes 36, 40 may be offset with an angle therebetween, which may advantageously form to the shape of the interior sampling passage sidewall(s) 35.

[0099] In one or more embodiments, the sampling port assembly 10 may further include a sanitary cover 50 (FIG. 21). In one or more embodiments, the sanitary cover 50 includes a sticker component that is adhered to the top of the one or more core members 14. The sanitary- cover 50 may be positioned proximate the sampling passage distal opening 39 such that it covers an external face of the sampling passage distal opening 39. The sanitary cover 50 may advantageously assist, with aseptic sample removal since it provides another barrier to the ambient environment. The sanitary cover 50 may advantageously provide visible indicia of the sampling channel entry point(s) 44 for a user to more easily and consistently remove samples. The sanitary' cover 50 may advantageously provide visible indicia of which of the sampling channel entry point(s) 44 have already been used, since the sanitary cover 50 will be punctured at those sampling channel entry point(s) 44.

[0100] One or More Core Members

[0101] The sampling port assembly 10 may further include the one or more core members 14, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 13-17. The one or more core members 14 herein may be sanitary. The one or more core members 14 may be configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage 18. The one or more core members 14 may be disposed at least partially- within the sampling passage 18. In one or more embodiments, the one or more core members 14 may include only one core member.In one or more embodiments, the one or more core members 14 may be molded into the port housing 12, as described in the methods herein. Thus, the one or more core members 14 may fit to form the port housing 12, including any steps, recesses, protrusions, and / or curves therein (and also as shown in one embodiment in FIGS. 1, 2, and 13-17). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 13-17, the one or more core members 14 include a base which fills in the floor aperture 29.

[0102] The one or more core members 14 may include a plurality of core members as shown in the figures. The plurality of core members may include a first core member 14-1, a second core member 14-2, and a third core member 14-3. In alternative embodiments, the plurality of core members may include two core members, or more than three core members (e.g., five core members, 10 core members, 20 core members, etc.). Each core member (e.g., 14-1, 14-2, 14-3) of the plurality of core members 14 may be configured to be positioned proximate one of the plurality of sampling channels 19. For example, the first core member 14-1 may be configured to be positioned proximate the first sampling channel 19-1, the second core member 14-2 may be configured to be positioned proximate the second sampling channel 19-2, and the third core member 14-3 may be configured to be positioned proximate the third sampling channel 19-3.

[0103] The one or more core members 14 may be configured to be pierceable and resealable For example, the one or more core members 14 may be configured to be pierceable by a needle, as described further herein, and upon removal of the needle, may self-seal, or reseal, such that the one or more core members 14 remain closed to the interior of the container 100 Thus, samples may be removed aseptically from the container 100.

[0104] Each of the plurality of sampling channels 19-1, 19-2, and 19-3 may include each of their respective sampling channel entry points 44-1, 44-2, 44-3, and each of the sampling channel entry points 44-1, 44-2, and 44-3 may be positioned at a geometric center of their respective core member 14-1, 14-2, and 14-3, at the sampling passage distal opening 39.

[0105] Container

[0106] In exemplary embodiments, the container 100 may include a 55-gallon drum, e.g., a 55-gallon drum used to store maple syrup. For example, the maple syrup industry may require aseptic removal of samples as the syrup is aged over time. Similar requirements may be found in other industries. Further, for example, the maple syrup industry (and other industries) mayrequire bottling and sale of the product before aging is complete if removal is not aseptic Common maple syrup drums include 55 gallon drums (FIG. 1), which may be stacked vertically, horizontally, or at an angle relative to the ground.

[0107] In further industries, the container 100 may be a 275-gallon IBC tote. IBC totes are one of the most commonly used of all current, intermediate bulk container design types. Caged IBC totes are handling and shipping containers for the storing, transit, and operation integration of various commodities, with the most common being water. In further alternative embodiments, various sized barrels or drums may be used, etc. The present, disclosure is understood to apply to any container 100 (e.g., barrel, drum, IBC totes, IBC tanks, carboys, flexitanks, etc., which may be used for, e.g., storage, transit, handling, etc.)

[0108] Disclosed herein is a container assembly 101 which may include the container 100 as discussed herein, and each of the port housing 12 and the one or more core members 14 as discussed herein (FIG. 1). The interior of the container 100 may remain sanitary during transportation, storage, and sampling of a substance within the container 100

[0109] Method of aseptically removing a sample from a container

[0110] Any suitable technique may be utilized to aseptically remove a sample from the container 100. For example, aseptic removal of a sample from the container 100 may first include proper installation of the sampling port assembly 10 into the container 100. Proper installation of the sampling port assembly 10 into the container 100 may include inspecting the container 100 for overall good condition. Proper installation may further include ensuring that the container opening (e.g., 2-inch bung opening 90) is free of gasket surface damage or thread damage.

[0111] Proper installation may further include sanitizing the portion(s) of the sampling port assembly 10 that will interact with the interior of the container 100 with a sanitizer spray or alcohol wipes.

[0112] Proper installation may further include inserting the sampling port assembly 10 into the container opening (e.g., 2-inch bung opening 90) Proper installation may further include ensuring that the thread 30 is are properly aligned with any container opening threads. Proper installation may further include tightening the sampling port assembly 10 into the container 100. For example, between about 15 feet-pounds and about 25 feet-pounds of torque may be applied to the port housing 12.The technique utilized to aseptically remove a sample from the container 100 is described herein, and may further vary based on the type of container 100, the size of the port housing 12 and one or more core member(s) 14, etc.

[0113] As further disclosed herein, and as illustrated in FIG. 19, a method 1000 of aseptically removing a sample from die container 100 and using the sampling port assembly 10 is described. The method may include piercing the sampling channel 19 of the sampling port assembly 10 using a needle 200, 300 (indicated as 1001 in FIG. 19). The needle 200, 300 may be sterile, may be sanitary, may be clean, etc. The needle 200, 300 may be any known needle with any known point styles (e.g., a beveled needle, a flat head needle, a non-coring side-hole needle, etc.). FIGS.

[0114] 18A and 18B illustrate schematics of example needle tips. FIG. 18A illustrates a beveled needle 200. FIG. 18B illustrates a non-coring side-hole needle 300. The non-coring side-hole needle 300 includes an entry point into the interior of the needle 300 via a hole 301 in the sidewall of the needle 300.

[0115] The method 1000 may further include removing the sample from the container 100 via the needle 200, 300 (indicated as 1002 in FIG. 19). The method 1000 may further include removing the needle 200, 300 from the sampling channel 19 (indicated as 1003 in FIG. 19).

[0116] The step 1001 of piercing a sampling channel 19 using the needle 200, 300 may include inserting the needle 200, 300 along the sampling axis 36 defined by the length of the sampling channel 19.

[0117] Method of manufacturing the sampling port assembly 10

[0118]

[0119] Any suitable technique may be utilized to manufacture the sampling port assembly as described herein For example, a method 2000 of manufacturing the sampling port assembly 10 as illustrated in FIG. 20 may include molding the port housing 12 (indicated as step 2001). The method 2000 may further include molding the one or more core members 14 (indicated as step 2002) Molding one or more of the port housing 12 and the one or more core members 14 may include, for example, injection molding, overmolding, 3D printing, etc.

[0120] The port housing 12, which includes the housing sidewall 24, the sampling passage 18, and the housing floor 28 (and alternatively also including the housing shoulder 20, the thread 30 the protrusions 55, the exterior sampling passage sidewall 34, the interior sampling passage sidewall(s) 35, etc ) may be manufactured as a single piece. For example, elements 24, 28, and28 (and alternatively also elements 20, 30, 55, 34, 35, etc.) may be integrally manufactured using a molding tool (e.g., an injection molding tool). The single combined piece including elements 24, 28, and 28 (and alternatively also elements 20, 3055, 34, 35, etc.) may be constructed out of, for example, plastic, polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyethylene, nylon, etc. In alternative embodiments, the single combined piece may be constructed out of, for example, other plastic, polymers, metal, ceramic, or any combination thereof.

[0121] The one or more core members 14 may be manufactured as a single piece. The one or more core members 14 may be integrally manufactured using a molding tool (e.g., an injection molding tool). The one or more core members may be constructed out of, for example, an elastomer, a plastic, a liquid silicone rubber, etc. The one or more core members 14 may be made of a self-sealing elastomeric material (e.g., silicone, rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer “EPDM,” etc.) such that once a needle is removed from the one or more core members 14, the hole left behind will seal itself to continue to provide a sanitary interior environment.

[0122] Injection molding may be advantageous when polycarbonate (PC) is used to manufacture the port housing 12, and Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) is used to manufacture the one or more core members 14. PC and LSR are compatible for bonding. PC is a polar plastic, which means it has a structure that allows for better interaction with other materials like LSR, leading to good adhesion. Also, materials with high surface energy, like PC, are more receptive to bonding with other materials. LSR contains siloxane groups that can interact with PC’s carbonate groups, contributing to the bonding process In alternative embodiments, some overmold products do not require bonding and may only be held together by their physical shapes and dimensions

[0123] All references and publications cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety into this disclosure, except to the extent they may directly contradict this disclosure. One or more embodiments of this disclosure are discussed and reference has been made to possible variations within the scope of this disclosure. These and other variations and modifications in the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure, and it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the one or more embodiments set forth herein. Accordingly, the disclosure is to be limited only by the claims provided below.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A sampling port assembly, comprising:a port housing configured to be coupled to a container and comprising:a housing sidewall defining an inner surface, the housing sidewall extending from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container;a housing shoulder positioned at the distal end of the housing sidewall and extending away from an outer surface of the housing sidewall;a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall, wherein the sampling passage defines at least one sampling passage sidewall; anda housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, the housing floor defining a gap distance between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, wherein the housing floor is offset from the housing shoulder such that the housing floor is positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder; andone or more core members configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage2. The sampling port assembly of claim 1, wherein the gap distance is variable as measured along the at least one sampling passage sidewall3. The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the sampling port assembly is configured to allow aseptic removal of a sample from the container.

4. The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the at least one sampling passage sidewall comprisesan exterior sampling passage sidewall, andat least one interior sampling passage sidewall coupled to the exterior sampling passage sidewall, the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall defining a plurality of sampling channels,wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members, each core member of the plurality of core members configured to be positioned proximate one of the plurality of sampling channels.

5. The sampling port assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall comprises:a first interior sampling passage sidewall,a second interior sampling passage sidewall; anda third interior sampling passage sidewall,wherein each of the first, second, and third interior sampling passage sidewalls extend from the exterior sampling passage sidewall towards a center of the sampling passage and are coupled at the center of the sampling passage such that they define a first sampling channel, a second sampling channel, and a third sampling channel of the plurality of sampling channels, and wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members comprising:a first core member;a second core member; anda third core member,wherein the first core member is configured to be positioned proximate the first sampling channel, the second core member is configured to be positioned proximate the second sampling channel, and the third core member is configured to be positioned proximate the third sampling channel.

6. The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling passage distal opening positioned distal from the housing floor.

7. The sampling port assembly of claim 6, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling axis along a centerline of the sampling passage that extends through and includes a length of the sampling passage and the sampling passage distal opening.8 The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 6-7, wherein the sampling passage includes at least one sampling channel, and wherein the at least one sampling channel comprises a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening.

9. The sampling port assembly of claim 8, wherein the one or more core members is configured to be pierceable and resealable.

10. The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 8-9, wherein the sampling channel entry point is positioned at a geometric center of the one or more core members at the sampling passage distal opening.

11. The sampling port assembly of claim 6, wherein the sampling passage includes a plurality of sampling channels and the one or more core members includes a plurality of core members, each of the plurality of core members configured to be pierceable to remove a sample from the container, and each of the plurality of core members configured to be resealable after the sample is removed, and each of the plurality of sampling channels comprising a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening proximate each core member of the plurality of core members.

12. The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 8 and 11, further comprising a sanitary cover, and wherein the sanitary cover is positioned proximate the sampling passage distal opening such that it covers an external face of the sampling passage distal opening.

13. The sampling port assembly of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the port housing does not extend outward past an exterior surface of the container, such that the port housing is flush with the exterior surface of the container or is at an elevation below the elevation of the exterior surface.

14. A container assembly comprising:a container; anda sampling port assembly comprising:a port housing configured to be coupled to the container and comprising:a housing sidewall defining an inner surface, the housing sidewall extending from a proximal end positioned proximate to a center of the container to a distal end positioned distal to the center of the container;a housing shoulder positioned at die distal end of the housing sidewall and extending a ’ay from an outer surface of the housing sidewall;a sampling passage positioned within the housing sidewall, wherein the sampling passage defines at least one sampling passage sidewall; anda housing floor coupled to and extending between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, the housing floor defining a gap distance between the inner surface and the at least one sampling passage sidewall, wherein the housing floor is offset from the housing shoulder such that the housing floor is positioned closer to the center of the container than the housing shoulder; andone or more core members configured to be positioned proximate the sampling passage.

15. The container assembly of claim 14, wherein the container is a 55-gallon drum.

16. The container assembly of any one of claims 14-15, wherein the gap distance is variable as measured along the at least one sampling passage sidewall.

17. The container assembly of any one of claims 14-16, wherein the sampling port assembly is configured to allow aseptic removal of a sample from the container.

18. The container assembly of any one of claims 14-17, wherein the at least one sampling passage sidewall comprises:an exterior sampling passage sidewall; andat least one interior sampling passage sidewall coupled to the exterior sampling passage sidewall, the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall defining a plurality of sampling channels,wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members, each core member of the plurality of core members configured to be positioned proximate one of the plurality of sampling channels.

19. The container assembly of claim 18, wherein the at least one interior sampling passage sidewall comprises:a first interior sampling passage sidewall,a second interior sampling passage sidewall; anda third interior sampling passage sidewall,wherein each of the first, second, and third interior sampling passage sidewalls extend from the exterior sampling passage sidewall towards a center of the sampling passage and are coupled at the center of the sampling passage such that they define a first sampling channel, a second sampling channel, and a third sampling channel of the plurality of sampling channels, and wherein the one or more core members comprises a plurality of core members comprising:a first core member;a second core member; anda third core member,wherein the first core member is configured to be positioned proximate the first sampling channel, the second core member is configured to be positioned proximate the second sampling channel, and the third core member is configured to be positioned proximate the third sampling channel.

20. The container assembly of any one of claims 14-19. wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling passage distal opening positioned distal from the housing floor.

21. The container assembly of claim 20, wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling axis along a centerline of the sampling passage that extends through and includes a length of the sampling passage and the sampling passage distal opening.22 The container assembly of any one of claims 20-21, wherein the sampling passage includes at least one sampling channel, and wherein the at least one sampling channel comprises a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening.

23. The container assembly of claim 22, wherein the one or more core members is configured to be pierceable and resealable.

24. The container assembly of any one of claims 22-23, wherein the sampling channel entry point is positioned at a geometric center of the one or more core members at the sampling passage distal opening.

25. The container assembly of claim 20, wherein the sampling passage includes a plurality of sampling channels and the one or more core members includes a plurality of core members, each of the plurality of core members configured to be pierceable to remove a sample from the container, and each of the plurality of core members configured to be resealable after the sample is removed, and each of the plurality of sampling channels comprising a sampling channel entry point positioned at the sampling passage distal opening proximate each core member of the plurality of core members.

26. The container assembly of any one of claims 22 and 25, further comprising a sanitary cover, and wherein the sanitary cover is positioned proximate the sampling passage distal opening such that it covers an external face of the sampling passage distal opening.

27. The container assembly of any one of claims 14-26, wherein the port housing does not extend outward past an exterior surface of the container, such that the port housing is flush with the exterior surface of the container or is at an elevation below the elevation of the exterior surface.

28. A method of removing a sample from a container using the sampling port assembly of any one of claims 1-27, the method comprising:piercing a sampling channel of the sampling port assembly using a needle;removing the sample from the container via the needle; andremoving the needle from the sampling channel.

29. The method of claim 28 wherein the sampling passage defines a sampling passage distal opening at a sampling passage distal end positioned distal to a center of the container, and wherein piercing a sampling channel using a needle comprises inserting the needle along a channel axis defined by a length of the sampling channel, the channel axis including a geometric center of the one or more core members at the sampling passage distal opening.

30. A method of manufacturing the sampling port assembly of any one of claims 1-27, the method comprising:molding the port housing; andmolding the one or more core members.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the port housing is constructed out of material comprising a plastic, and wherein the one or more core members is constructed out of material comprising an elastomer.

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