EP1926465A1 - Systemes et procedes d'emballage electronique conforme - Google Patents

Systemes et procedes d'emballage electronique conforme

Info

Publication number
EP1926465A1
EP1926465A1 EP06735164A EP06735164A EP1926465A1 EP 1926465 A1 EP1926465 A1 EP 1926465A1 EP 06735164 A EP06735164 A EP 06735164A EP 06735164 A EP06735164 A EP 06735164A EP 1926465 A1 EP1926465 A1 EP 1926465A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tray
slide card
outer sleeve
chamber
circuit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP06735164A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Timothy Freeze
Thomas R. Grinnan
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
WestRock MWV LLC
Original Assignee
Meadwestvaco Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Meadwestvaco Corp filed Critical Meadwestvaco Corp
Publication of EP1926465A1 publication Critical patent/EP1926465A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers of polygonal cross-section, e.g. boxes, cartons or trays, formed by folding or erecting one or more blanks made of paper
    • B65D5/42—Details of containers or of foldable or erectable container blanks
    • B65D5/72—Contents-dispensing means
    • B65D5/725—Incised or pre-scored openings or windows provided in the side wall of containers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J7/00—Devices for administering medicines orally, e.g. spoons; Pill counting devices; Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine
    • A61J7/04—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
    • H05K1/00—Printed circuits
    • H05K1/02—Details
    • H05K1/0286—Programmable, customizable or modifiable circuits
    • H05K1/0293—Individual printed conductors which are adapted for modification, e.g. fusable or breakable conductors, printed switches
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J7/00—Devices for administering medicines orally, e.g. spoons; Pill counting devices; Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine
    • A61J7/04—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers
    • A61J7/0409—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers with timers
    • A61J7/0418—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers with timers with electronic history memory
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
    • A61J7/00—Devices for administering medicines orally, e.g. spoons; Pill counting devices; Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine
    • A61J7/04—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers
    • A61J7/0409—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers with timers
    • A61J7/0427—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers with timers with direct interaction with a dispensing or delivery system
    • A61J7/0436—Arrangements for time indication or reminder for taking medicine, e.g. programmed dispensers with timers with direct interaction with a dispensing or delivery system resulting from removing a drug from, or opening, a container
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
    • H05K2201/00—Indexing scheme relating to printed circuits covered by H05K1/00
    • H05K2201/09—Shape and layout
    • H05K2201/09009—Substrate related
    • H05K2201/09063—Holes or slots in insulating substrate not used for electrical connections
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
    • H05K2201/00—Indexing scheme relating to printed circuits covered by H05K1/00
    • H05K2201/09—Shape and layout
    • H05K2201/09009—Substrate related
    • H05K2201/09127—PCB or component having an integral separable or breakable part
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
    • H05K2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits covered by H05K3/00
    • H05K2203/17—Post-manufacturing processes
    • H05K2203/175—Configurations of connections suitable for easy deletion, e.g. modifiable circuits or temporary conductors for electroplating; Processes for deleting connections

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to packaging systems and methods. More specifically, the present invention is directed to packages and package inserts that include electronic circuitry for monitoring, measuring, or recording an event, such as the time and date of dispensing, removing, delivering, or otherwise accessing a packaged item.
  • Conventional pharmaceutical packages have shortcomings with regard to monitoring healthcare items other than unit doses, such as syringes, injectables, vials, parenteral medicants, ampoules, contact lenses, birth control devices and the like, or any part or combination thereof.
  • typical healthcare items are simply shipped to the user wrapped in a thin plastic covering, packed tightly, and positioned vertically in boxes.
  • the current packaging systems and methods do not provide a means for recording or measuring individual events, such as the time and date an item such as a healthcare device was accessed or removed from its package.
  • the conventional packaging systems and methods provide the ability to gather real-time information from users so as to provide an easy method to poll users on certain issues, such as performance side effects, pain, nausea or other related matters.
  • the existing packaging systems do not integrate compliance measurement and patient interaction with a package holding a healthcare item.
  • the present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the known art and the problems that remain unsolved by providing packaging systems and methods that include electronic circuitry for integrating compliance monitoring and user interaction, and can be easily integrated into standard manufacturing processes and packaging configurations.
  • an electronic compliance packaging system comprising a tray with at least one chamber for housing an item, a slide card with at least one access window corresponding to the chamber, a trace circuit, and an electronic module for receiving information regarding the circuit.
  • the slide card is configured to receive the tray, and an outer sleeve is configured to receive the combined tray and slide card.
  • the electronic module may be attached to or include a transmitter that relays to another device the information received and collected.
  • the other device may be in close proximity with the package, such as may be the case with a reader, cell phone, PDA, any variation of computer, or wireless transceiver that queries the electronic device for the stored information.
  • the other device may be remotely located, such as may be the case with a computer in communication with a network such as the internet that receives and relays the information stored in the electronic module.
  • the optional outer sleeve may or may not be lockable such that it provides a child-resistant feature.
  • the embodiments described herein as well as those covered by the claims may or may not include a spill resistant feature.
  • an electronic compliance packaging system comprising a foldable blank with a tray receiving area and attached tray to form a slide card.
  • the slide card includes a trace circuit and electronic module for receiving information regarding the trace circuit.
  • an electronic compliance packaging system comprising a foldable blank constructed to form an integral tray and slide card.
  • the slide card includes a trace circuit and electronic module for receiving information regarding the trace circuit.
  • a method for packaging items comprising the steps of printing a trace circuit and placing an electronic monitoring device in communication with the trace circuit. Steps include loading a tray with an item and mounting or inserting the tray on or within the slide card. Additional steps include inserting the slide card within an outer sleeve.
  • a method for packaging items comprising the steps of constructing a blank so as to form an integral tray and slide card, loading the tray with an item, printing a trace circuit, and placing an electronic monitoring device in communication with the trace circuit.
  • this method may include the steps of folding the slide card to cover the stored item and inserting the slide card into an outer sleeve.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tray and slide card, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a plan view of a trace configuration printed on a slide card or tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3A is a plan view of an outer sleeve blank, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the outer sleeve blank, of FIG. 3A M shown assembled.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic compliance package system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a top view of a foldable blank including a tray receiving area, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a top view of an embodiment of a tray including a plurality of chambers for holding uniform items, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is a top view of an embodiment of a tray including a plurality of chambers for holding non-uniform items, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a top view of an integral tray and slide card, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic compliance package system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the illustrated embodiments are directed to packages that hold healthcare items.
  • FIG. 1 shows an electronic compliance packaging system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the packaging system 10 includes a tray 12.
  • the illustrated tray 12 is configured to receive and store one or more healthcare items, such as injectables, syringes, ampoules, vials, tubes, or any other drug delivery device.
  • the phrase "injectables” may comprise a plunger, barrel, and needle, or parts thereof, used by a medical professional to treat a patient with a pharmaceutical drug, or the patient to treat him or herself.
  • drug delivery devices is used broadly to refer to all healthcare apparatuses and parts thereof used in conjunction with administering to or transferring substances into or out of a body, such as but not limited to a human being.
  • a “drug delivery device” comprises a substance in the form of, or contained within, pills, tablets, chewables, aerosols, inhalers, trans-dermal patches, suppositories, injectable devices, contact lenses, birth control devices, parts thereof, and the like.
  • the illustrated tray 12 is constructed and erected from a single paperboard blank configured to hold drug delivery devices in the form of an injectable, but those skilled in the art will immediately understand that the tray 12 may be configured to hold any portable item. Both the exterior and interior configurations of the tray 12 are merely design choices, for example, the tray 12 can be manufactured and fabricated in a variety of different lengths, widths or heights and can be constructed of plastic, paperboard, cardboard, foam, or any other suitable material. Further, the tray 12 may be vacuum formed, thermoformed, injection molded, or constructed and erected using any of a variety of manufacturing processes that are well known by those skilled in the art.
  • the tray 12 includes a plurality of chambers 14 for releasably receiving and housing one or more drug delivery devices.
  • the chambers 14 may be configured in whatever shape, size, or dimension is required to store the device, and may include cushioning materials or locking features.
  • the packaging system 10 further includes a slide card 16.
  • the illustrated slide card 16 includes a top panel 18 and a bottom panel 20, which are both attached to side panels 22, 24.
  • the slide card 16 can be fabricated from any suitable material, including plastic, foam, paper, cardboard, paperboard, or combinations thereof and can be fabricated in any dimension of choice.
  • the slide card 16 further includes one or more access windows 26. Each access window 26 is intended to align with a corresponding chamber 14. Accordingly, when the tray 12 is fully inserted within the slide card 16, each access window 26 is disposed over a corresponding chamber 14.
  • the slide card 16 also includes sealing tabs or gates 28, which may be integrally formed with the top member 18 or the gates 28 may be separately attached to the top panel 18 so as to cover a portion of each access window 26.
  • the sealing tab 28 assists in preventing an article from falling out of the corresponding chamber 14, and provides the breaching means for monitoring access to the drug delivery device disposed within the corresponding chamber 14.
  • the slide card 16 further includes a locking tab 30 and a catch flap 32.
  • the locking tab 30 is designed to engage with additional elements to provide a child-resistant locking feature. Further, the locking tab 30 is designed to engage the catch flap 32 to provide a slip-resistant feature.
  • the sealing tabs 28 are mounted to or are integrated to the tray 12, and are configured to span the respective chambers 14.
  • the slide card 16 including a trace circuit 34 that comprises a plurality of individual conductive traces 38, and an electronic module receiving area 36 for mounting an electronic module (not shown).
  • the trace circuit 34 is an active circuit that conducts an electrical signal for transmitting information to an electronic module.
  • the illustrated trace circuit 34 is applied directly to the slide card 16, in a manner well known by those skilled in the art. In alternative embodiments, the trace circuit 34 is applied to the tray 12.
  • the trace circuit 34 is printed using conventional printing or lithography methods, such as but not limited to screen or off-set methods and laser or ink jet methods.
  • the inks used in the printing method to form the conductive traces 38 are conductive inks, selected based on performance needs.
  • Conductive inks typically include conductive metals such as but not limited to copper or silver.
  • One non- limiting example used in the present invention is a carbon-based conductive ink readily understood by those skilled in the art.
  • the trace circuit 34 may also be printed onto a plastic film, paper, card or any other suitable non-conductive material. The film, paper or card is then separately attached to the slide card 16 or tray 12 by appropriate attaching means.
  • each individual closed conductive trace 38 extends from and returns to the electronic module located at the electronic module receiving area 36.
  • Each conductive trace 38 bridges both the individual chamber 14 and access window 26 via the sealing tabs 28.
  • opening the closed circuit signals the removal of an item, and the event is captured and recorded by the electronic module.
  • Individual conductive traces 38 may be as wide or as narrow as required by the voltage and resistance requirements of the embodiment in use; in the illustrated embodiments it is shown to widen the conductive traces 38 that lay over the individual access windows 26 in order to reduce or eliminate false readings. It is contemplated that individual conductive traces 38 can be configured to accommodate switches, controls, audible elements, light emitting devices, and similar components that enhance monitoring functions.
  • the electronic module captures, stores, and communicates information regarding the packaged items.
  • the electronic module may be any device comprising hardware, software, firm ware, or any combination thereof, for capturing, storing, possibly manipulating, and then communicating information regarding the packaged items.
  • the captured information includes signals received from the trace circuit 34. The information may be stored by the electronic module until the electronic module communicates the stored information to a person or another device.
  • the electronic module may communicate the stored information. Some methods include the following examples: Transmitting the information in response to a query from a device, such as a reader in close proximity to the package, is one known method of communicating. Further, beginning a transmission to a remote receiver via a linked transmitter located in the package, such as is found in a cellular phone, is another known method of communicating. Beginning a transmission to a remote receiver via a linked transmitter placed in communication with the electronic module, such as found in a Bluetooth device, is another known method of communicating. Removing the electronic module from the package and connecting it to another device for extracting stored information, is another method of communicating. Further, simply providing a display device readable by a user on the package is a known method of communicating the stored information. These methods, and others, may be used to communicate the stored information to a person or another device.
  • FIGs. 3A and 3B there is shown a blank 40 which is folded and assembled using conventional techniques so as to create an outer sleeve 42 for housing the slide card 16 and tray 12.
  • the blank 40 may be fabricated from any suitable materials, including but not limited to plastic, foam, paper, cardboard, paperboard, or any combination thereof.
  • the outer sleeve 42 should be designed to meet the physical dimensions and characteristics of both the tray 12 and the slide card 16. In the illustrated embodiments the outer sleeve 42 is configured to completely enclose the tray 12 and slide card 16 when inserted within the outer sleeve 42, but such a configuration is not a requirement.
  • An embodiment of the present invention may include a child-resistant locking feature, such as will now be described.
  • the blank 40 includes a top panel 44 comprising a release button 46 and an internal edge 47, a bottom panel 48, and an inward panel 50 including a stop slot 52 for preventing the slide card 16 from slipping out of the outer sleeve 42.
  • the outer sleeve 42 further includes finger access cutouts 54 for releasably removing the slide card 16 and tray 12 from within a receiving void 56. In the locked position, wherein the slide card 16 with tray 12 is fully inserted into the receiving void 56, the spring tension created by the compressed locking tab 30 causes the leading edge of the tab to cooperatively engage with the internal edge 47 created by the cut that defines the release button 46.
  • the slide card 16 With the locking tab 30 and internal edge 47 engaged, the slide card 16 is releasably locked within the void 56.
  • This means for locking creates a child- resistant feature.
  • the user depresses the release button 46 which disengages the locking tab 30 and internal edge 47.
  • Other means for locking may be substituted that meet the child resistant features of the present invention.
  • a plurality of drug delivery devices are securely disposed within the chambers 14 and the tray 12 (not shown here) is inserted within the slide card 16.
  • the slide card 16 includes a catch flap 32 that engages the tray 12 to securely hold the tray 12 within the slide card 16.
  • Other means for closing including the gluing of end-flaps, may be used to secure the tray 12 within the card 16.
  • the slide card 16 includes a plurality of access windows 26 and corresponding gates 28 formed in the top panel 18. When the tray 12 is inserted and secured within the slide card 16, each access window 26 and gate 28 is aligned and positioned over a corresponding individual chamber 14. Cutouts 54 permit a user to easily insert or remove the slide card 16 from the outer sleeve 42.
  • a user accesses a drug delivery device by pressing the release button 46 to unlock and slide the card 16 from the outer sleeve 42.
  • the user tears open a gate 28.
  • the gate 28 bridging an access window 26
  • the user breaks a corresponding conductive trace 38 (not shown) and breaches the chamber 14 bridge associated with the selected item. Breaking the respective conductive trace 38 in turn opens a circuit.
  • a signal is received, recorded, and stored by the electronic module as the event of accessing the drug delivery device.
  • Indicia regarding that event may be programmed in the electronic module or in any device or devices in communication with the electronic module.
  • Event-related indicia stored by the electronic module, or a device in communication with the electronic module may be downloaded, uploaded, read, retrieved, printed, displayed, transmitted, or otherwise communicated to a microprocessor, PDA, computer, cellphone, display, printer, transmitter, receiver, or other suitable means for receiving indicia.
  • a method for packaging items comprises the steps of printing a trace circuit 34 on the slide used 16 or tray 12 and placing an electronic monitoring device in communication with the circuit 34. That method further includes the step of loading a tray with at least one of the items to be monitored. Additional steps of packaging include inserting the tray within the outer sleeve, and inserting the tray within a slide card and then releasably inserting the slide card into the outer sleeve.
  • FIG. 5 there is shown a partial packaging system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the packaging system includes a slide card 100 comprising a blank 110 including a base panel 116, spine panel 118, top panel 120, and tab 122 having a leading edge 123.
  • the respective panels 116, 118, 120 are defined by fold-lines 124a and 124b.
  • fold-lines 124a, 124b are formed by scores, cuts, bends, perforations, live hinges, formed hinges, and the like.
  • tab 122 may function as part of a means for locking and/or as part of a means for stopping, by cooperatively engaging with a first element to create a child- resistant feature and/or cooperatively engaging with a second element to create a spill- resistant feature.
  • Patient and healthcare provider information such as dose compliance, warnings, and instructions in written form or digital form can be made easily visible or accessible to the user through the ample billboard space found on either side of the panels 116, 120, or tab 122 or any other suitable area on the slide card 100.
  • the blank 110 is configured to connectedly receive a tray 126, 128 (best shown in FIGs. 6 and 7) at a tray receiving area 129. It should be understood that although a tray 126, 128 may be separately attached to the tray receiving area 129, the blank 110 can be fabricated to form an integral tray 126, 128 and slide card 100 structure.
  • the blank 110 may comprise paper, paperboard, cardboard, plastic, or any combinations thereof. Further, the blank 110 may comprise paperboard, bleached sulphate, solid unbleached sulphate, or clay-coated newsback, all of which are well- known design choices.
  • the paperboard coating is a fluid blend of materials, such as coating clay, calcium carbonate, and/or titanium dioxide with starch or adhesive smoothly applied to the traveling surface. Successive densification and polishing finish the mineral-coated surface to a superior, graphic-printable surface.
  • the fold-lines 124a, 124b may be live hinges, or, as explained below regarding the engaging feature of the tab 122, fold-line 124b may be a formed hinge with an upwardly or downwardly extending profile to create an internal spring tension that urges the tab 122 back toward a relatively relaxed or horizontal orientation when the tab 122 is first folded over toward base panel 116.
  • both trays 126, 128 are constructed of plastic, in the manner well known by those skilled in the art, and are configured to receive and hold various items of various shapes. Also, as understood by those skilled in the art, both the exterior and interior tray configurations are merely design choices.
  • the exterior of the illustrated trays 126, 128 are configured to be affixed to and within the tray receiving area 129 (best shown in FIG. 5), while the interior of the illustrated trays 126, 128 are configured to receive and store drug delivery devices.
  • One drug delivery device illustrated is a vial 130 for holding a medicament in liquid form and another is a syringe 132 to be used in conjunction with the vial 130.
  • tray 126 is configured to receive and store items of substantially uniform shape and size, such as the illustrated syringe 132 comprising a plunger 134, barrel 136, finger guard 138, and needle 140.
  • the tray 126 comprises a means for securing and holding the syringe 132, such as the plunger-receiving recess 142, barrel-receiving recess 144, and needle-receiving recess 146.
  • the recesses 142, 144, 146 may be configured to lock in or otherwise secure the item by including a means for resisting removal such as fold-over locking flaps, indentations, straps, inserts, and the like (not shown).
  • a means for holding and storing a drug delivery device includes a pre-formed tray 126, 128 that can be configured in a variety of ways.
  • an embodiment of the present invention may comprise a monolithically formed card/tray combination, where the blank 110 is an integral part of the tray 126, 128, the two components being formed as a blank during fabrication.
  • tray 128 is configured to receive and store items of substantially unique shapes and sizes, such as the vial 130 and syringe 132.
  • tray 128 comprises a means for securing and holding the vial 130, such as the vial-receiving recess 148, and a means for securing and holding the syringe 132 as described immediately above.
  • the recess 148 may be configured to lock in or otherwise secure the item by including a means for resisting removal such as fold-over locking flaps, indentations, straps, inserts, and the like (not shown).
  • the various recesses illustrated herein may be configured to receive and store any portable items of any shape or size.
  • the electronic compliance package includes a tray 126 attached to a tray receiving area 129 of the blank 110 so as to form a slide card 100.
  • the slide card 100 includes a plurality of conductive traces 156 printed thereon, and an electronic module 158. Individual conductive traces 156 bridge each access window 160 of a slide card 100 and each individual chamber of the tray 126.
  • the user breaks a corresponding conductive trace 156 by tearing open a sealing tab 157. The tearing of the tab 157 opens the trace circuit and transmits a signal to the electronic module 158, which receives and stores the information regarding the signal.
  • the tray 126 may be covered with a trace circuit film.
  • the term "trace circuit film” may comprise a trace circuit and chip that is applied to plastic, paper, dielectric foil, paperboard, cardboard, film, Tyvek® or any other suitable material.
  • the trace circuit may be directly printed on a plastic film material that is used to cover the items disposed within the tray 126.
  • the plastic film material may include perforations that extend along the length of the edges of each chamber wall. The perforations allow an individual to tear or peel away the part of the plastic film area that covers a corresponding individual chamber of the tray 126.
  • the conductive traces 156 of the trace circuit are designed to bridge across each individual access window 160 of the slide card 100 and each individual corresponding chamber of the tray 126.
  • a respective conductive trace 156 is broken, thus, opening the trace circuit and transmitting a signal to the electronic module 158.
  • the tray 126, 128 can be integrally formed with the blank 110 so as to form the package 150.
  • the trace circuit including the conductive traces 156 may be added to or printed directly on the slide card 100 or tray 126, 128, and the conductive traces 156 and electronic module 158 may be added to or printed on a trace circuit film that is subsequently used to cover the items disposed within individual chambers of the tray 126, 128. It is contemplated that the trace circuit will be designed and engineered such that individual conductive traces bridge each so that when an item is removed from a chamber, a conductive trace is broken and an event item is recorded.
  • individual conductive traces 156 are positioned over each individual chamber within the tray 126, 128 so access to a chamber breaks open a circuit and an event is monitored and recorded.
  • the electronic compliance package 200 includes an outer sleeve 202 for receiving a slide card 204.
  • the outer sleeve 202 includes a void 206 for receiving the slide card 204, an extension panel 208 and a release button 210.
  • the outer sleeve 202 further includes a first engaging tab cutout 212 having an internal edge 214, a second engaging tab cutout (not shown) and finger access cutouts 216.
  • first engaging tab cutout 212 and engaging tab 218 together form an embodiment of a means for locking, while the folded extension panel 208 and engaging tab 218 together form an embodiment of a means for stopping.
  • drug delivery devices such as syringes, injectables, ampoules, vials, or any combination thereof, are placed within corresponding chambers in a tray 220.
  • the tray 220 is attached to or can be formed integrally with the slide card 204.
  • Conductive traces 222 and an electronic monitoring device 224 are configured and positioned so that each individual conductive trace 222 bridges a corresponding chamber of the tray and is in communication with the monitoring device.
  • Top panel 226 is folded so as to cover the tray 220 and orient the spine panel 228 adjacent to a side of the tray.
  • Tab 218 is folded inwardly so that the face of tab 218 is proximate to the face of base panel 230.
  • the slide card 204 With the slide card 204 folded as described, the slide card 204 is inserted into the void 206 of the outer sleeve 202, starting with the edge formed by fold-line 232 and with the tab 218 receivingly aligned with the release button 210. Once fully inserted, the slide card 204 is in a fully closed and locked position.
  • the locking feature includes release button 210, cutout 212, and cooperatively engaging tab 218.
  • the spring tension created by the folded tab 218 causes the tab edge 234 to engage the internal edge 214 of cutout 212 at locking position A.
  • the inner tray 220 is locked within the outer sleeve 202 and cannot be accessed.
  • This means for locking creates a child-resistant feature.
  • internal edge 214 has a semi-circular convex profile that engages well with the semi-circular convex profile of tab edge 234.
  • a user depresses the release button 210, which in turn depresses the tab 218 to disengage the tab edge 234 from the internal edge 214.
  • the slide card 204 can be extracted from the outer sleeve 202 to a fully open position.
  • a fully open position occurs when the tab 218 engages the interior of folded extension panel 208 at stopping position B.
  • the spring tension created by the folded tab 218 causes the tab 218 to engage the folded interior of the extension panel 208.
  • the slide card 204 cannot be further removed from the outer sleeve 202 but may be re-inserted to a fully closed position if desired. In this manner, the tab 218 also acts as a spill-resistant feature to prevent the slide card 204 from being pulled completely out of the outer sleeve 202.
  • the user may open and close the electronic compliance package by withdrawing and replacing the slide card 204 within the outer sleeve 202 as often as desired.
  • the user grasps the slide card 204 at the top panel 226 and bottom panel 230, adjacent to the spine panel 228, from the finger access cutouts 216.
  • the user then depresses the release button 210 in order to disengage the means for locking.
  • depress the button 210 while grasping and pulling laterally will withdraw the tray 220 from the outer sleeve 202.
  • the user may fold back the optional top panel 226 to access an item held in the tray 220.
  • Removing a drug delivery device from a chamber within the tray 220 breaks open a conductive trace (not shown), thereby transmitting a signal to the electronic monitoring device (not shown).
  • the signal creates an event item, such as, the time, date, month, and year the drug delivery device was accessed.
  • an event item such as, the time, date, month, and year the drug delivery device was accessed.
  • a corresponding conductive trace is broken and a signal is transmitted to an electronic monitoring device.
  • the user folds the top panel 226 back over the tray 220 and reinserts the slide card 204 within the outer sleeve 202 for future use.
  • a method for packaging items comprises the steps of constructing a blank to form an integral tray and slide card.
  • the method of packaging further includes the step of loading a tray with an item.
  • the step of packaging further includes locating a trace circuit proximate to the tray and in communication with an electronic module or monitoring device.
  • the step of packaging further includes folding the slide card in a manner to cover the tray, and releasably inserting the slide card into an outer sleeve.
  • the present invention is not limited to healthcare related goods, but may also be applicable to delicate, sensitive or unique items as well. Some non-limiting examples include small electronic or mechanical components, jewelry, tobacco products, food, expensive, precious or rare articles, or any other article that requires storage and monitoring. Further, the embodiments of the present invention may be constructed without child-resistant or spill-resistant features

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Medical Preparation Storing Or Oral Administration Devices (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention décrit un emballage (150) permettant de surveiller électroniquement le retrait d'articles. Un article est placé dans la chambre de réception (160) d'un tiroir (126). Un circuit (156) est placé sur une grille (157) qui prolonge la chambre (160). Pour accéder à l'article, l'utilisateur rompt la grille (157) qui, à son tour, rompt le circuit (156). La rupture du circuit (156) est enregistrée et stockée par un dispositif de surveillance électronique (158) en communication avec le circuit. Les informations stockées dans le dispositif de surveillance (158) peuvent être directement consultées par l'utilisateur via une interface d'affichage ou communiquées à une partie distante pour consultation.
EP06735164A 2005-02-17 2006-02-16 Systemes et procedes d'emballage electronique conforme Withdrawn EP1926465A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US65390305P 2005-02-17 2005-02-17
PCT/US2006/005380 WO2006088979A1 (fr) 2005-02-17 2006-02-16 Systemes et procedes d'emballage electronique conforme

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1926465A1 true EP1926465A1 (fr) 2008-06-04

Family

ID=36570385

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP06735164A Withdrawn EP1926465A1 (fr) 2005-02-17 2006-02-16 Systemes et procedes d'emballage electronique conforme

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1926465A1 (fr)
CA (1) CA2598474A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2006088979A1 (fr)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007043858A2 (fr) * 2005-09-02 2007-04-19 Kort, Willem, Theo Plaquette alveolaire dotee d'un systeme de surveillance de contenu (otcm) a composants electroniques polymeres imprimes
WO2015164210A1 (fr) 2014-04-25 2015-10-29 Westrock Mwv, Llc Emballage verrouillable
US10618683B2 (en) 2015-03-09 2020-04-14 Westrock Mwv, Llc Lockable packaging
GB2543922B (en) * 2015-09-17 2019-08-28 Westrock Mwv Llc Tamper evident package assembly and associated blank

Citations (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040178112A1 (en) * 2003-03-10 2004-09-16 Snyder William B. Medication package and method

Family Cites Families (9)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH276578A (it) * 1947-12-05 1951-07-15 Capetta Piero Scatola per recipienti allungati, con supporto interno per questi.
SE514151C2 (sv) * 1998-09-25 2001-01-15 Cypak Ab Svarsformulär
US6411567B1 (en) * 2000-07-07 2002-06-25 Mark A. Niemiec Drug delivery management system
DE10117907C1 (de) * 2001-04-10 2002-11-07 Udo Simon Aufnahmevorrichtung für Arzneimittelblister
US6412636B1 (en) * 2001-05-21 2002-07-02 Westvaco Corporation Unit dose packaging system with child resistance and senior friendly features
US6491211B1 (en) * 2001-08-03 2002-12-10 Scott & Daniells, Inc. Child resistant carton and method for using the same
FR2839700B1 (fr) * 2002-05-15 2004-09-17 Finega Structure de calage pour tube et flan predecoupe permettant d'obtenir une telle structure
US6874636B2 (en) * 2003-03-27 2005-04-05 Howell Packaging, Division Of Fm Howell & Co. Lock and release mechanism of child resistant unit dose package
JP2007511433A (ja) * 2003-11-13 2007-05-10 ミードウエストベコ・コーポレーション 内側トレイを有するロック可能な容器

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US20040178112A1 (en) * 2003-03-10 2004-09-16 Snyder William B. Medication package and method

Non-Patent Citations (1)

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Title
See also references of WO2006088979A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2006088979A1 (fr) 2006-08-24
CA2598474A1 (fr) 2006-08-24

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