[0001] The present invention relates to a container for transporting a biological sample.
The present invention also relates to a kit of parts for transporting a biological
sample. The rules and legislation governing the transportation of biological material,
such as human waste, tissue, or blood samples or specimens, are becoming increasingly
stringent. As a result of the health risk to humans posed by pathogens such as bacteria,
viruses and fungi, which may be present in such samples, precautions must be taken
to guarantee the safety of those operating in this field.
[0002] The health risk to humans posed by certain biological material can be greatly reduced
by type of packaging used to store the sample during transit. Moreover, given the
recent rise in self-screening initiatives, such as for bowel cancers and the like,
the number of biological samples being collected at home, as well as in clinics, is
rising. Such samples are invariably couriered in large quantities to medical institutes
or laboratories where various analyses are conducted, it has therefore become necessary
to provide effective, albeit easy to operate, packaging that complies, amongst others,
with the regulations under UN3373, relating to biological substances being transported
for diagnostic or investigative purposes.
[0003] Regulations such as UN3373 impose strict requirements on the minimum features that
such packaging should possess. Biological material that is known or reasonably expected
to contain harmful pathogens must be transported in packaging that includes the following
key components:
- A primary receptacle, being a tube, vial or other container made of glass or rigid
plastic,
- A secondary packaging encapsulating the primary receptacle and being fluid impermeable,
and
- An outer packaging,
[0004] in which either of secondary or outer packaging is rigid.
[0005] Biological samples are commonly collected in vials or tubes made from glass or rigid
plastic. A conventional method of packaging such samples is to place the receptacle
in a sealable polythene bag, which is then itself packaged within a rigid sleeve or
box. However, in self-screening studies, the multi step nature of such a packaging
technique often proves over-complicated for certain people, such as the elderly, resulting
in the subsequent failing of the packaging, putting those operating in this field
at risk. Packaging techniques that require a multiplicity of different packages are
also considerably more expensive.
[0006] Another type of packaging for use in this field is the Polymed envelope, which is
made from strong vinyl material, and has a opening defined by a sealable metal zipper.
The Polymed envelope is designed to be used with additional leak proof packaging.
It also suffers from certain structural inadequacies, including an insufficiently
rigid outer packaging. Additional packaging is therefore required for biological samples
whose transportation is governed by strict regulations. The MiniMailBox was also designed
with UN3373-type regulations in mind. However, despite being conveniently sized so
as to be postable through a standard letter box, the MiniMailBox is not itself leak
proof, meaning that additional interior packaging is required, thereby placing an
increased burden on the user to ensure that each component of the packaging is correctly
and securely sealed.
[0007] WO 02/45647 A2 discloses a mailer for shipping cells contained in a cell culture device, wherein
the mailer comprises a containment system that can absorb and contain within the mailer
a fluid that may leak from the cell culture device. The containment system comprises
a gas-permeable absorbent material adapted to surround the cell culture apparatus;
and a liquid impermeable layer which seals the absorbent material so as to contain
any fluid released within the mailer.
[0008] WO 2008/146010 A1 discloses a package having two complementary casing-parts having a central, outwards-extending
depression for accommodating opposite sides of a container C. One of the casing-parts
is lined with a superabsorbent material lining. The depression in each casing-part
is surrounded by a respective surround. The surrounds have margins, which are stepped
in the opposite direction from the depressions, i.e. inwards of the closed condition
of the package. With the interposition of the lining, the margins abut when the casing-parts
are closed together.
[0009] Aspects of the present invention were devised with the foregoing in mind.
[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fluid impermeable
container for transporting a biological sample, the container comprising folded sheet
material, the folded sheet material being fluid impermeable and defining a base, enclosing
side walls, an upper wall, and a container closure flap, the upper wall being configured
to define an opening to a recess for receiving a receptacle containing a biological
sample to be transported, the closure flap being foldable into contact with the upper
wall, characterised in that the closure flap comprises a sealing portion which is
foldable from a first position in which it is folded inwardly along an edge of the
closure flap, such that the sealing portion lies substantially contiguous with the
closure flap, and the recess is exposed when the closure flap is in contact with the
upper wall and to a second position in which it is folded outwardly along said edge
and extends sealingly over the recess when the closure flap is in contact with the
upper wall.
[0011] The container enables a user to achieve a fluid impermeable barrier between the interior
and the exterior of the container. Moreover, the container affords both fluid impermeability
and durability characteristics without the need for multiple types of packaging. Consequently,
the single closure packaging reduces the burden placed on the user, thereby allowing
a biological sample to be packaged, either by a clinician or by a member of the public,
in a simpler and more efficient manner, which complies with regulations governing
the transportation of biological material, such as those imposed by UN3373.
[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, the sheet material is rigid. The container therefore
provides both a fluid impermeable barrier, as well as a rigid outer packaging without
the need for multiple types of packaging.
[0013] In another embodiment of the invention, the container is sized to be postable through
a standard letter box. The container thereby facilitates sampling by the public in
self-screening studies.
[0014] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the folded sheet material comprises
a fluid impermeable coating. Optionally, the fluid impermeable coating is provided
as a laminate coating on the folded sheet material. Lamination of sheet material is
an inexpensive process, and confers fluid impermeability characteristics to the resulting
container.
[0015] In still another embodiment of the present invention, the folded sheet material comprises
cardboard. Cardboard sheet material is easily cut and shaped, and confers strength
and durability characteristics whilst being at the same time cost-effective.
[0016] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the container closing member
comprises an adhesive portion. An adhesive affords a good seal around the recess.
Optionally, the adhesive portion does not extend over an area of the container dosing
member that overlies the opening to the recess when the container is in a closed configuration.
Whilst the adhesive portion affords a good seal around the upper periphery of the
recess, the area of the container closing member that overlies the opening to the
recess when the container is in a closed configuration may not comprise an adhesive.
Consequently, a receptacle may not become adhered to the container closing member
when the container is in use. This may be achieved by die cutting an adhesive strip.
The die cutter may be shaped to correspond to the opening of the recess. Optionally,
the adhesive is exposed by releasing a backing strip. The container closing member
is therefore simple to operate. The adhesive and sealing characteristics of the adhesive
are not compromised in the event of sample spillage.
[0017] In another embodiment of the present invention, the container further comprises one
or more container reinforcing members. The one or more reinforcing member confer additional
strength, rigidity and durability characteristics to the container. Optionally, the
one or more container reinforcing members comprises an absorbent. The absorbent may
be impregnated within the one or more container reinforcing members. In the event
of damage to the primary receptacle, the absorbent prevents the sample from leaking
out of the container. Optionally, the container reinforcing member comprises one or
more inserts, around which the sheet material of the container is formed. Multiple
inserts may be stacked one on top of another and then secured in place once the sheet
material is erected around them. Optionally, the one or more inserts are made from
a sufficiently rigid foam or from corrugated cardboard. Such materials improve the
rigidity of the container whilst offering a degree of absorbency.
[0018] In another embodiment of the present invention, the recess comprises a cushioning
material. The primary receptacle, which is often manufactured from glass or rigid
plastic, is thereby cushioned from impacts during transportation and handling. Preferably,
the dimensions of the recess correspond accurately to those of a primary receptacle
whose lid portion has been correctly closed. Accordingly, the recess is physically
incapable of accommodating a receptacle whose lid has been incorrectly closed, thereby
prompting a user to take action. Moreover, providing a recess whose dimensions correspond
closely to those of the receptacle being transported prevents the lid, cap or stopper
of such a receptacle from becoming detached or dislodged during transit. The risk
of spillage or leakage is therefore even further reduced.
[0019] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the recess comprises an absorbent
material. In the event of damage to the primary receptacle, the absorbent prevents
the sample from leaking out of the container. Optionally, the quantity of absorbent
material is sufficient to absorb the entire contents of a biological sample to be
transported. The risk of any biological material reaching the outer extremities of
the container is thereby significantly reduced. Optionally, the absorbent material
is a foam or cotton wool. Such materials provide adequate absorbency characteristics,
whilst at the same time affording a degree of cushioning.
[0020] In still a further embodiment of the present invention, the recess further comprises
a fluid impermeable holder for housing a biological sample to be transported. The
holder confers additional fluid impermeability characteristics to the portion of the
container being in contact with the primary receptacle. Optionally, the holder is
integrally formed within the recess. An additional burden on the user is thereby eliminated.
Optionally, the holder is made from plastic. Plastics are typically lightweight, fluid
impermeable and inexpensive.
[0021] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the recess further comprises
one or more cutaway portions for facilitating access to the recess. The usability
of the container for less dexterous persons, such as the elderly, is therefore increased.
[0022] In still another embodiment of the present invention, the recess may be substantially
larger than the receptacle which it is intended to receive. In such an embodiment,
the recess may further comprise receptacle retaining means to retain the receptacle
in a given part of the recess, such that container opening means, such as a blade
or guillotine, may safely shear through an empty part of the recess. Optionally, the
receptacle retaining means comprises a constricted portion. The constricted portion
may be formed into a single side wall of the recess. Alternatively, opposing side
walls of the recess may be constricted at a given point.
[0023] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the container further comprises
sample releasing means for accessing the recess other than via the container closing
member. The container therefore provides means for accessing the packaged sample once
it has reached its destination. The means are located away from the container closing
member so that its integrity is not weakened. Optionally, the sample releasing means
comprises a perforated release tab complementarily shaped to at least one of the faces
of the recess. The tab may be simply removed by tearing along the perforation, thereby
exposing one or more faces of the packaged sample. Optionally, the perforated release
tab is disposed on the base of the container. Alternatively, the sample releasing
means may comprise a line of weakness extending through the container and intersecting
the recess along one of its faces. The packaged sample may therefore be accessed by
breaking the container over the edge of a flat surface, such as a work top, so as
to expose one or the faces of the packaged sample. Alternatively, the sample releasing
means may comprise a line of weakness extending through the container and intersecting
the recess at any point along its length. Once the container is broken along the line
of weakness, a portion of the receptacle may protrude from the recess. Such sample
releasing means may prove advantageous when numerous containers are to be opened,
by reducing the risk posed by repetitive strain injuries (RSls).
[0024] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a
kit of parts for transporting a biological sample, the kit comprising a fluid impermeable
container of the present invention, and a receptacle capable of containing a biological
sample to be transported.
[0025] One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to
the accompanying figures, in which:
Figure 1 is a view from the front, one side and above of the container of the present invention
in a fully open configuration.
Figure 2 is a view from one side of the container of the present invention in a partially
open configuration.
Figure 3 is a view from the front, one side and above of the container depicted in claim 1,
further depicting the optional fluid impermeable holder for housing a biological prior
to insertion into the recess.
Figure 4 is a view from the rear, one side and below of the container of the present invention
in a closed configuration.
Figure 5 is a view from the rear, one side and below of the container depicted in Figure 4.
Figure 6 is a view from the rear, one side and below of the container of the present invention
in a broken configuration.
Figure 7 is a view from the rear, one side and below of the container of the present invention
in an alternative broken configuration
Figure 8 is a view from above of a pre-cut and pre-creased blank erectable to form a container
of the present invention.
[0026] Referring to the figures, the fluid impermeable container 10 is formed from a sheet
of laminated cardboard. It is generally cuboidal in shape, having a base 12, upright
front 14, rear 16 and side walls 18a, 18b, an upper wall 20, and a closure flap 22.
Upper wall 20 lies in a substantially identical plane to base 12, and defines an opening
to a recess 24 for receiving a receptacle (not shown) containing a biological sample
to be transported. Closure flap 22 has a sealing portion 26 which sealingly encloses
the recess 24 when the container 10 is in a closed configuration.
[0027] Referring to Figures 1 and 8, base 12, upper wall 20 and closure flap 22 are of substantially
identical dimensions to one another and are ail generally oblong in shape. Base 12
is separated from upper wall 20 along long edge 30 by front wall 14. Front wall 14
is separated from upper wall 20 by long edge 32, which lies opposite long edge 30.
Rear wall 16 is of substantially identical dimensions to front wall 14 and is separated
from upper wall 20 by long edge 34, which lies opposite long edge 32. Side walls 18a,
18b lie along opposite short edges 36, 38 respectively of upper wall 20. Base 12 is
separated from closure flap 22 along long edge 40 by rear wall cover 28, which lies
along an opposite edge of base 12 to front wall 14. Rear wall cover 28 is separated
from closure flap 22 by long edge 42. Rear wall cover 28 is of substantially identical
dimensions to front 14 and rear 16 wall, and lies substantially contiguous with rear
wall 16 when container 10 is in a closed configuration. Sealing portion 26 is disposed
towards an opposite edge of closure flap 22 to rear wall cover 28. Sealing portion
26 is distinguished from closure flap 22 by edge 43. Edges 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40,
42, 43 are pre-creased.
[0028] Still referring to Figures 1 and 8, front 14 and rear 16 walls each have a pair of
adhesive tabs 44a, 44b and 46a, 46b respectively, extending outwardly from their respective
shortest edges 48a, 48b, 50a, 50b. Each of side walls 18a, 18b also has an adhesive
tab 52a, 52b respectively, each disposed along an opposite edge 54a, 54b respectively,
to upper wall 20. Rear wall 16 has a further adhesive tab 56 disposed along an opposite
edge 58 to upper wall 20. Edges 48a, 48b, 50a, 50b, 54a, 54b, 58 are pre-creased.
During assembly of container 10, adhesive tabs 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b, 52a, 52b, 56 are
secured to the inner surface of base 12 such that they are concealed from view. The
performance of the adhesive is not compromised in the event of a spillage within container
10.
[0029] Turning now to Figures 1 and 3, container 10 comprises a plurality of container reinforcing
members 58 provided as layers of corrugated cardboard. Reinforcing members 58 are
of substantially identical dimensions to base 12 and upper wall 20, and are sandwiched
therebetween when container 10 is erected from sheet material. Reinforcing members
58 have a cutout portion complementarity shaped to recess 24, such that portions of
reinforcing members 58 form the side walls of recess 24. Reinforcing members 58 are
secured in place once container 10 is erected from sheet material.
[0030] Referring to Figures 1 and 8, upper wall 20 also comprises semicircular cutaways
68 located along opposite long edges of the opening to recess 24. A portion of the
reinforcing members 58 comprises complementarily shaped cutaway portions to facilitate
access to a receptacle located inside recess 24.
[0031] Referring to Figure 3, a sample holder 60 in the form of a tray may be provided,
the sample holder 60 being complementarily shaped to recess 24. Sample holder 60 is
designed to receive a receptacle containing a biological sample and is therefore manufactured
from a fluid impermeable material, more specifically plastic. Sample holder 60 further
comprises a lip 62, the underside of which abuts, and is adhesively secured to, the
upper surface of upper wall 20 when sample holder 60 is located in recess 24. An interior
portion of sample holder 60 contains a cushioning and an absorbent material, such
as cotton wool or the like.
[0032] Prior to use, and referring to Figure 2, container 10 adopts a partially open configuration
in which sealing portion 26 of closure flap 22 is folded inwardly along edge 43, such
that sealing portion 26 lies substantially contiguous with closure flap 22. Sealing
portion 26, which is generally formed from double sided adhesive tape, is prevented
from adhering to closure flap 22 by backing strip 62. An empty receptacle for receiving
a biological sample may then be located in recess 24 and a recipient's address, or
other information, may be printed onto the uppermost surface of closure flap 22, before
an outer wrapper, such as transparent cellophane is applied. Upon receipt of container
10 in its partially open configuration, recess 24 and a receptacle contained therein
are presented to a user.
[0033] In use, and referring to the Figures, container 10 is exposed by removal, if present,
of an outer wrapper, thereby allowing container 10 to adopt a fully open configuration
in which sealing portion 26 is folded outwardly along edge 43 to reveal user instructions
printed onto the inner surface of closure flap 22. A user then removes the receptacle
from recess 24 and inserts into it a sample of biological material. The receptacle
is then sealed and relocated back into recess 24. Backing strip 62 is then removed
from sealing portion 26 and discarded. Next, sealing portion 26 is lowered onto the
opening to recess 24, such that the upper boundaries of recess 24 and cutaways 68
on upper wall 20 are fully and sealingly enclosed by sealing portion 26. The adhesive
and sealing characteristics of sealing portion 26 are not compromised by spillages
within recess 24.
[0034] Accordingly, when used as a return mailing article, container 10, being in a partially
open configuration, arrives with a user in a transparent wrapper, with recess 24,
and a receptacle contained therein, clearly visible. Container 10 is then unwrapped,
a biological sample is introduced into the receptacle, and the receptacle then relocated
back into recess 24. Container 10 is then sealingly closed by the user according to
the above protocol, and conveniently mailed to a recipient, normally a laboratory
or other medical institute, whose address may have been pre-printed on container 10.
[0035] In its closed configuration, container 10 complies with specific regulations governing
the transportation of biological material, such as those imposed by UN3373. Container
10 is suitably sized so as to be postable through a standard letter box, and addresses
or other relevant information may be printed on the outer surface of either closure
flap 22 or base 12,
[0036] Once at its destination, most probably a hospital, laboratory or other medical institute,
the sample of biological material must be retrieved from container 10. Referring to
Figure 4, container 10 is provided with a perforated release tab 64 formed into base
12 and located over the underside of recess 24. Release tab 64 may therefore be torn
away to expose a portion of recess 24 in which the receptacle containing the biological
sample is contained. Alternatively, and referring to Figures 5 and 6, the sample of
biological material may be retrieved by tearing along a perforation 66 that extends
through a substantially median point of container 10. Perforation 66 intersects a
face of recess 24, such that tearing container 10 along perforation 66 exposes a portion
of recess 24, thereby allowing the sample to be retrieved. Alternatively, and referring
to Figure 7, perforation 66 may intersect recess 24 at any point along its length,
such that, upon tearing, the receptacle containing the biological sample protrudes
therefrom and is easily retrievable.
[0037] While specific embodiments have been described herein for the purpose of reference
and illustration, various modifications will be apparent to a person skilled in the
relevant art and may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as
defined by the appended claims. For example, container 10 may be formed from a number
of other sheet materials, such as certain plastics, in which case further fluid impermeability
characteristics may be conferred to container 10. The shape of container 10 may also
differ from that described herein, and various other three dimensional forms are equally
envisageable. Reinforcing members 58 may be constructed from materials other than
cardboard, such as rigid foams or sponges. The reinforcing members may be impregnated
or dispersed with a material having absorbency characteristics, thereby minimising
even further the risk of spillage. Recess 24 may be shaped to receive any number of
conventional specimen receptacles. Cutaways 68 may be one or more in number, and may
be of any size of shape. Where sample holder 60 is not used, recess 24 may be directly
packed with one or more cushioning or absorbent materials, including fabrics, foams,
sponges, pads and powders. Sealing portion 26 may comprise adhesive means other than
double sided adhesive tape, such as any number of glues. The adhesives are preferably
selected such that their performance is not compromised in the event of a spillage.
Release tab 64 may be alternatively located to expose any accessible face of recess
24. Release tab 64 may also be located on closure flap 22, providing that the sealing
characteristics of container 10 are not compromised. Perforation 66 may be relocated
so as to expose, upon tearing, one or more other portions of recess 24.
1. A fluid impermeable container (10) for transporting a biological sample, the container
comprising folded sheet material, the folded sheet material being fluid impermeable
and defining a base (12), enclosing side walls (18a, 18b), an upper wall (20), and
a container closure flap (22), the upper wall (20) being configured to define an opening
to a recess (24) for receiving a receptacle containing a biological sample to be transported,
the closure flap (22) being foldable into contact with the upper wall (20), characterised in that the closure flap (22) comprises a sealing portion (26) which is foldable from a first
position in which it is folded inwardly along an edge of the closure flap such that
the sealing portion lies substantially contiguous with the closure flap and the recess
(24) is exposed when the closure flap (22) is in contact with the upper wall (20)
and to a second position in which it is folded outwardly along said edge and extends
sealingly over the recess (24) when the closure flap (22) is in contact with the upper
wall (20).
2. A container as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sheet material is rigid.
3. A container as claimed in claim 2, wherein the container is sized to be postable through
a standard letter box.
4. A container as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the folded sheet material comprises
a fluid impermeable coating and, optionally,
wherein the fluid impermeable coating is provided as a laminate coating on the sheet
material.
5. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the folded sheet material comprises
cardboard.
6. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the sealing portion (26) comprises
an adhesive portion and, optionally,
wherein the adhesive portion (26) does not extend over an area of the container closure
flap (22) that overlies the opening to the recess when the container is in a closed
configuration and, optionally,
wherein the adhesive is exposed by releasing a backing strip (62).
7. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising one or more container
reinforcing members (58) and, optionally,
wherein the one or more container reinforcing members (58) comprises an absorbent
and/or
wherein the container reinforcing member (58) comprises one or more inserts, around
which the sheet material is folded and, optionally,
wherein the one or more inserts are made from a foam, or
wherein the one or more inserts are made from corrugated cardboard.
8. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the recess (24) comprises a
cushioning material.
9. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the recess (24) comprises an
absorbent material and, optionally,
wherein the quantity of absorbent material is sufficient to absorb the entire contents
of a biological sample to be transported and/or
wherein the absorbent material is a foam or cotton wool.
10. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the recess (24) further comprises
a fluid impermeable holder (60) for housing a biological sample to be transported
and, optionally,
wherein the holder (60) is removable and/or
wherein the holder (60) is made from plastic.
11. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the recess (24) further comprises
one or more cutaway portions (68) for facilitating access to the recess.
12. A container as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (24) is
substantially larger than the receptacle which it is intended to receive and further
comprises receptacle retaining means for retaining the receptacle in a given part
of the recess and, optionally,
wherein the receptacle retaining means comprises a constricted portion.
13. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising sample releasing
means for accessing the recess other than via the container closure flap (22) and,
optionally,
wherein the sample releasing means comprises a perforated release tab (64) complementarily
shaped to at least one of the faces of the recess (24) and, optionally,
wherein the perforated release tab (64) is disposed on the base of the container or
wherein the sample releasing means comprises a line of weakness (66) extending through
the container and intersecting the recess (24) along one of its faces or
wherein the sample releasing means comprises a line of weakness (66) extending through
the container and intersecting the recess (24) at any point along its length.
14. A kit of parts for transporting a biological sample, the kit comprising a fluid impermeable
container (10) as claimed in any preceding claim, and a receptacle containing a biological
sample to be transported.
1. Fluidundurchlässiger Behälter (10) zum Transportieren einer biologischen Probe, wobei
der Behälter gefaltetes flächiges Material umfasst, wobei das gefaltete flächige Material
fluidundurchlässig ist und einen Boden (12), umschließende Seitenwände (18a, 18b),
eine obere Wand (20) und eine Behälterverschlussklappe (22) definiert, wobei die obere
Wand (20) dazu konfiguriert ist, eine Öffnung zu einer Aussparung (24) zum Aufnehmen
eines eine zu transportierende biologische Probe enthaltenden Gefäßes zu definieren,
wobei die Verschlussklappe (22) in den Kontakt mit der oberen Wand (20) faltbar ist,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Verschlussklappe (22) einen Versiegelungsabschnitt (26) umfasst, der aus einer
ersten Position, in der er entlang einer Kante der Verschlussklappe nach innen gefaltet
ist, sodass der Versiegelungsabschnitt im Wesentlichen direkt an der Verschlussklappe
anliegt und die Aussparung (24) freigelegt ist, wenn sich die Verschlussklappe (22)
mit der oberen Wand (20) in Kontakt befindet, und in eine zweite Position, in der
er entlang der Kante nach außen gefaltet ist und sich siegelnd über die Aussparung
(24) erstreckt, wenn sich die Verschlussklappe (22) mit der oberen Wand (20) in Kontakt
befindet, faltbar ist.
2. Behälter nach Anspruch 1, wobei das flächige Material starr ist.
3. Behälter nach Anspruch 2, wobei der Behälter bemessen ist, um durch einen gewöhnlichen
Briefkasten gesteckt werden zu können.
4. Behälter nach Anspruch 1, 2 oder 3, wobei das gefaltete flächige Material eine fluidundurchlässige
Beschichtung umfasst und wobei optional
die fluidundurchlässige Beschichtung als eine Laminatbeschichtung auf dem flächigen
Material bereitgestellt ist.
5. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei das gefaltete flächige Material
Karton umfasst.
6. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Versiegelungsabschnitt
(26) einen Klebeabschnitt umfasst und wobei optional
der Klebeabschnitt (26) sich nicht über einen Bereich der Behälterverschlussklappe
(22) erstreckt, der über der Öffnung zu der Aussparung liegt, wenn sich der Behälter
in einer geschlossenen Konfiguration befindet, und wobei optional
der Klebstoff durch Ablösen eines Abdeckstreifens (62) freigelegt wird.
7. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, ferner umfassend ein oder mehrere
Behälterversteifungselemente (58) und wobei optional
das eine oder die mehreren Behälterversteifungselemente (58) ein saugfähiges Material
umfasst und/oder
wobei das Behälterversteifungselement (58) einen oder mehrere Einsätze umfasst, um
die das flächige Material gefaltet ist, und wobei optional
der eine oder die mehreren Einsätze aus einem Schaumstoff hergestellt sind oder
wobei der eine oder die mehreren Einsätze aus Wellkarton hergestellt sind.
8. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Aussparung (24) ein Polstermaterial
umfasst.
9. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Aussparung (24) ein saugfähiges
Material umfasst und wobei optional
die Menge an saugfähigem Material ausreicht, um den gesamten Inhalt einer zu transportierenden
biologischen Probe aufzusaugen, und/oder
wobei es sich bei dem saugfähigen Material um einen Schaumstoff oder Watte handelt.
10. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Aussparung (24) ferner
einen fluidundurchlässigen Halter (60) zum Unterbringen einer zu transportierenden
biologischen Probe umfasst und wobei optional
der Halter (60) herausnehmbar ist und/oder
wobei der Halter aus Kunststoff hergestellt ist.
11. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Aussparung (24) ferner
einen oder mehrere ausgeschnittene Abschnitte (68) zum Erleichtern des Zugriffs auf
die Aussparung umfasst.
12. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Aussparung (24) wesentlich
größer ist als das Gefäß, das sie aufnehmen soll und ferner ein Gefäßsicherungsmittel
zum Sichern des Gefäßes in einem gegebenen Teil der Aussparung umfasst und wobei optional
das Gefäßsicherungsmittel einen verengten Abschnitt umfasst.
13. Behälter nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, ferner umfassend ein Probenfreigabemittel
zum anderen Zugreifen auf die Aussparung als über die Behälterverschlussklappe (22)
und wobei optional
das Probenfreigabemittel eine perforierte Freigabelasche (64) umfasst, die komplementär
zu mindestens einer der Seiten der Aussparung (24) geformt ist, und wobei optional
die perforierte Freigabelasche (64) an dem Boden des Behälters angeordnet ist oder
wobei das Probenfreigabemittel eine Schwächelinie (66) umfasst, die sich durch den
Behälter erstreckt und die Aussparung (24) entlang einer ihrer Seiten kreuzt oder
wobei das Probenfreigabemittel eine Schwächelinie (66) umfasst, die sich durch den
Behälter erstreckt und die Aussparung (24) an einer beliebigen Stelle entlang ihrer
Länge kreuzt.
14. Satz von Teilen zum Transportieren einer biologischen Probe, wobei der Satz einen
fluidundurchlässigen Behälter (10) nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche und ein
eine zu transportierende biologische Probe enthaltendes Gefäß umfasst.
1. Récipient imperméable aux fluides (10) servant à transporter un échantillon biologique,
le récipient comportant un matériau en feuille replié, le matériau en feuille replié
étant imperméable aux fluides et définissant une base (12), des parois latérales enveloppantes
(18a, 18b), une paroi supérieure (20), et un volet de fermeture de récipient (22),
la paroi supérieure (20) étant configurée pour définir une ouverture donnant sur un
évidement (24) servant à recevoir un réceptacle contenant un échantillon biologique
destiné à être transporté, le volet de fermeture (22) étant en mesure d'être replié
jusqu'à se mettre en contact avec la paroi supérieure (20), caractérisé en ce que le volet de fermeture (22) comporte une partie d'étanchéité (26) qui est en mesure
d'être repliée depuis une première position dans laquelle elle est repliée vers l'intérieur
le long d'un bord du volet de fermeture de telle sorte que la partie d'étanchéité
repose de manière sensiblement contiguë par rapport au volet de fermeture et l'évidement
(24) est exposé quand le volet de fermeture (22) est en contact avec la paroi supérieure
(20) et à une deuxième position dans laquelle elle est repliée vers l'extérieur le
long dudit bord et s'étend de manière étanche sur l'évidement (24) quand le volet
de fermeture (22) est en contact avec la paroi supérieure (20).
2. Récipient selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le matériau en feuille est rigide.
3. Récipient selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le récipient est dimensionné pour
être en mesure d'être posté au travers d'une boîte aux lettres de taille normale.
4. Récipient selon la revendication 1, la revendication 2 ou la revendication 3, dans
lequel le matériau en feuille replié comporte un revêtement imperméable aux fluides
et, éventuellement,
dans lequel le revêtement imperméable aux fluides est mis en œuvre sous la forme d'un
revêtement stratifié sur le matériau en feuille.
5. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le matériau
en feuille replié comporte du carton.
6. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel la partie
d'étanchéité (26) comporte une partie adhésive et, éventuellement,
dans lequel la partie adhésive (26) ne s'étend pas sur une zone du volet de fermeture
de récipient (22) qui recouvre l'ouverture donnant sur l'évidement quand le récipient
est dans une configuration fermée et, éventuellement,
dans lequel l'adhésif est exposé par libération d'une bande de soutien (62).
7. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant par ailleurs
un ou plusieurs éléments de renfort de récipient (58) et, éventuellement,
dans lequel lesdits un ou plusieurs éléments de renfort de récipient (58) comportent
un absorbant et/ou
dans lequel l'élément de renfort de récipient (58) comporte une ou plusieurs pièces
rapportées, autour desquelles le matériau en feuille est replié et, éventuellement,
dans lequel lesdites une ou plusieurs pièces rapportées sont réalisées à partir d'une
mousse, ou
dans lequel lesdites une ou plusieurs pièces rapportées sont réalisées à partir d'un
carton ondulé.
8. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'évidement
(24) comporte un matériau de bourrage.
9. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'évidement
(24) comporte un matériau absorbant et, éventuellement,
dans lequel la quantité de matériau absorbant est suffisante pour absorber le contenu
tout entier de l'échantillon biologique devant être transporté et/ou
dans lequel le matériau absorbant est une mousse ou du coton hydrophile.
10. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'évidement
(24) comporte par ailleurs un support imperméable aux fluides (60) servant à recevoir
un échantillon biologique destiné à être transporté et, éventuellement,
dans lequel le support (60) est amovible et/ou
dans lequel le support (60) est réalisé en plastique.
11. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'évidement
(24) comporte par ailleurs une ou plusieurs parties découpées (68) servant à faciliter
l'accès à l'évidement.
12. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel l'évidement
(24) est sensiblement plus grand que le réceptacle qu'il est destiné à recevoir et
comporte par ailleurs un moyen de retenue de réceptacle servant à retenir le réceptacle
dans une partie donnée de l'évidement et, éventuellement,
dans lequel le moyen de retenue de réceptacle comporte une partie à étranglement.
13. Récipient selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant par ailleurs
un moyen de libération d'échantillon servant à accéder à l'évidement autre que par
le biais du volet de fermeture de récipient (22) et, éventuellement,
dans lequel le moyen de libération d'échantillon comporte une languette de libération
perforée (64) de forme complémentaire par rapport à au moins l'une des faces de l'évidement
(24) et, éventuellement,
dans lequel la languette de libération perforée (64) est disposée sur la base du récipient
ou
dans lequel le moyen de libération d'échantillon comporte une ligne de moindre résistance
(66) s'étendant au travers du récipient et croisant l'évidement (24) le long de l'une
de ses faces ou
dans lequel le moyen de libération d'échantillon comporte une ligne de moindre résistance
(66) s'étendant au travers du récipient et croisant l'évidement (24) en tout point
quelconque le long de sa longueur.
14. Kit de pièces servant à transporter un échantillon biologique, le kit comportant un
récipient imperméable aux fluides (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes,
et un réceptacle contenant un échantillon biologique destiné à être transporté.