TWI657021B - Contact lens secondary packaging and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A contact lens packaging assembly includes a sealable primary lens package, at least one contact lens sealed in the primary lens package, and a sealable secondary lens package. The primary lens package is sealed within the secondary lens package to increase the idle life of the at least one contact lens. The secondary lens package is resealable. The secondary lens package can be assembled into a plurality of primary lens packages. The contact lens packaging assembly may further include at least one inert gas, which is sealed inside the secondary lens package and outside the primary lens package.

Description

Secondary packaging of contact lens and method Field of invention

The system and method relate to a contact lens package, and more particularly to a secondary contact lens package and related methods.

Background of the invention

Soft disposable lenses are usually contained in disposable packaging. When packaging is added to the overall cost of the lens, it should be made as economically as possible without the necessary conditions to compromise packaging guidelines. Traditional blister packs for disposable lenses (both biweekly and daily) consist of a polypropylene reservoir for lenses (hereafter referred to as a "boat") and a multilayer film (which may include Polyethylene, aluminum, adhesive and polypropylene). The ship is typically an injection-molded plastic that has high rigidity and includes pre-formed recesses. The vessel is filled with a suitable storage solution, such as saline, and receives a single lens in situ. The blister pack (typically autoclaved using steam and pressure) is then sterilized until the ends are sterile. These blister packs are presented in individual boxes or presented to patients in multiple blister strips.

The lenses are stored in the package for a long time (which may include months or years). The lenses must remain hydrated when in the package. Therefore, the packaging must be well sealed and the penetration of water vapor through the ship and the laminate should be minimized to maximize idle life and prevent the lenses contained therein from dehydrating. During use, the user removes the laminated material by peeling off the lid from the flange formed on the ship to expose the lenses immersed in the hydration solution.

During shipment, handling, and storage of the package, the package is exposed to a variety of potentially harmful environmental conditions and damage forces. As the package becomes smaller, thinner, and lighter as a result of efforts to reduce material and manufacturing costs, the package becomes more susceptible to this environmental condition and damage forces. Furthermore, the use of certain materials and structures for the packaging can affect the idle life of the products stored in the packaging.

To protect the packaging during shipment, handling, and storage, a disposable contact lens package is typically gathered in a usable amount and tucked into a secondary package for storage and shipping. Traditionally, the secondary packaging of contact lenses consists of a cardboard box that includes supplier information and instructions printed on it.

Many contact lens users store their contact lenses in the bathroom, and there are mirrors and sinks that can assist in wearing or removing their contact lenses. Bathrooms are usually wet. However, the traditional secondary packaging for contact lenses is typically made from a paper-based material, which is not suitable for use in a humid environment.

Summary of invention

One aspect of this disclosure relates to a contact lens packaging assembly. The contact lens packaging assembly includes a sealable first lens package, at least one contact lens sealed within the first lens package, and a sealable second or secondary lens package. In a specific example, the secondary packaging is waterproof. The first or primary lens package is sealed in the second or secondary lens package to increase the idle life of the at least one contact lens. The two The secondary lens package is resealable. The secondary lens package can be assembled to hold a plurality of first lens packages. The contact lens packaging assembly may further include sealing at least one inert gas inside the secondary lens package and outside the first lens package.

Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a packaging system that includes primary and secondary packaging. The primary package is assembled to contain a product with a limited idle life. The secondary packaging portion can be assembled to accommodate the primary packaging and provide an inert environment to the primary packaging to maintain or extend the idle life of the product. The product may, for example, be a contact lens or a medicament, and may have nutritional value.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a contact lens package. The method includes sealing a contact lens in a first or primary package, and sealing the first or primary lens package in a secondary lens package, wherein the secondary lens package provides a package adapted to the first or primary lens package. Inert storage. The method may further include storing a volume of inert gas in the secondary lens package. The secondary lens package may include two layers of foil that are firmly secured together to define an interior having a size to receive the first or primary lens package.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of forming a secondary contact lens package. The method includes providing first and second foil layers, joining the first and second foil layers together to define an interior of a secondary package, wherein the interior of the secondary package is assembled to receive a primary contact that contains at least one contact lens. Glasses packaging. The method also includes creating an inert environment inside the secondary package. The method may include providing a defense in the interior of the secondary package. Water Environment.

10‧‧‧Contact lens packaging assembly

12‧‧‧ secondary lens packaging

14‧‧‧One-time lens packaging

20A-C‧‧‧The first lens packaging part

22‧‧‧ through line

24‧‧‧ contact lenses

26‧‧‧ Substrate

28‧‧‧ Cover sheet

30‧‧‧Contact lens receiving part

40‧‧‧First sheet

42‧‧‧Second sheet

44‧‧‧ the first end

46‧‧‧ second end

48‧‧‧ the first side

50‧‧‧ second side

52‧‧‧ Top surface

54‧‧‧ lower surface

56‧‧‧ Internal

58‧‧‧Internal opening

60‧‧‧ closed assembly

59‧‧‧First closed member

61‧‧‧Second Closed Member

62‧‧‧First illustration

63‧‧‧Sealed part

64‧‧‧ Second illustration

66‧‧‧ Third illustration

72‧‧‧Reflected members

90‧‧‧First foil layer

92‧‧‧first polymer layer

94‧‧‧Second foil layer

96‧‧‧Second polymer layer

100‧‧‧Contact lens packaging assembly

112‧‧‧Primary lens packaging

114‧‧‧ secondary lens packaging

144‧‧‧ the first end

146‧‧‧second end

148‧‧‧first side

150‧‧‧ second side

152‧‧‧upper surface

154‧‧‧lower surface

156‧‧‧Internal

158‧‧‧Internal opening

162‧‧‧Sealed part

180‧‧‧ Extended

182‧‧‧Support members

184‧‧‧ surrounding wall

186‧‧‧cavity

The accompanying figures illustrate several specific examples of the principles described herein and are a part of this patent specification. The specific examples illustrated are entirely examples and do not limit the scope of patent application.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a contact lens packaging assembly according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a partially exploded top perspective view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 1. FIG.

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 1. FIG.

FIG. 4 is an exploded top perspective view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 1. FIG.

5 is a cross-sectional side view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 1 taken along a cross-section indicating line 5-5.

5A is a cross-sectional view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 5 taken along a cross-section indicating line 5A.

6 is a cross-sectional view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 1 taken along a cross-section indicating line 6-6.

7 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a contact lens packaging assembly according to the present disclosure.

8 is an exploded top perspective view of the contact lens packaging assembly of FIG. 7.

Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate similar, but not necessarily the same, elements.

Detailed description

The present disclosure relates to a secondary packaging for use with a primary contact lens package. In one embodiment, at least one contact lens is contained in a first or primary contact lens package, and the first contact lens package is stuffed and sealed in a second or secondary contact lens package. The secondary contact lens package may provide an inert environment to help maintain the useful or idle life of the contact lenses contained in the primary contact lens package. The secondary contact lens package may also provide a waterproof environment in which the primary contact lens package is stored. The secondary contact lens package can also provide a certain degree of protection to the primary contact lens package during shipping and handling.

According to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package may be a resealable package that permits the insertion and removal of at least one primary contact lens package. According to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package may include an inert material. According to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package may also include a metal-based material layer (such as a foil). The secondary contact lens package may further include at least first and second laminated sheets or members that are sealed together around a periphery to define an interior having a size capable of receiving the primary contact lens package (which contains at least one contact lens). . Each of the laminated sheets may include a polymer layer and a metal layer (for example, a foil).

In addition to retaining at least one primary contact lens package containing at least one contact lens, the secondary contact lens package may have other uses. Examples of other uses include, for example, pre-packaged medicaments, vitamins, supplements, and other volatiles that would benefit from storage in an inert secondary storage environment One or more sex products.

The secondary packaging can be used in combination with a supporting structure, such as a drawer or tray type structure, wherein the supporting structure holds at least one primary contact lens package and can be stuffed into the secondary packaging with the primary contact lens package. The support structure can provide additional stiffness and resistance to deformation and impact (which would otherwise damage the primary contact lens package and at least one contact lens retained therein). In at least some embodiments, the secondary contact lens package has a flexible or deformable structure, and the support structure provides at least some of the contact lens packaging assembly including the primary and secondary contact lens packages and the support structure. Some firmness. Further details on the examples of support structures are provided in the Singapore patent application filed on October 18, 2011 and published under the name "Support Structures for Shipment and Storage of Replaceable Contact Lenses", the full text of which This is incorporated herein by reference.

As disclosed in the aforementioned Singapore patent application entitled "Support Structure for Shipping and Storage of Replaceable Contact Lenses", the support structure can be used to support at least one contact during the shipment of the contact lens package Glasses packaging. Similarly, the support structure can be used to carry or support at least one primary contact lens package during storage of the contact lens package. The same support structure can be used to ship and store both the at least one disposable contact lens packages. The support structure may have greater rigidity properties than the primary contact lens package. The support structure can further provide at least one of additional strength, support and protection to the one-time contact lens package during at least one period of shipment and storage of the one-time contact lens package.

The support structure can be tucked into the secondary contact lens package. The two The secondary contact lens package may define an interior having a size capable of receiving at least one support member carrying at least one primary contact lens package. The support member may be assembled to be removably placed in a separate storage box for storing at least one primary contact lens package retained in the support member. According to a typical specific example, the support member may have a drawer-shaped structure having a cavity or an interior sized to receive at least one contact lens package. The drawer-shaped support member can slide in and out of a storage box, wherein the storage box has at least one slit or opening sized to receive the support member. The support member may be substantially enclosed within the storage box. When the support member is placed inside the storage box, a part of the support member is visible from outside the storage box.

The support member may include at least one explanatory diagram that is visible when the support member is stored in the storage box. The illustration may include information related to at least one primary contact lens package held by the support member. The illustration of the storage box may also provide information related to at least one primary contact lens package held by the support member. The support member may include materials recycled from other contact lens manufacturing processes. For example, the support member may include material recycled from a plastic model used to form a contact lens, which is contained in the primary contact lens package. Using this recycled material can reduce overall material waste during the manufacturing, shipping, and storage of contact lens related products.

The secondary packaging embodiments disclosed herein may have some advantages as compared to traditional paper-based secondary packaging commonly used to store primary packaging. Traditional secondary packaging contains usually lack of sterility and resistance to water / moisture damage Material of paper base. Furthermore, the traditional secondary packaging is huge and takes up a significant amount of space. The secondary packaging embodiments disclosed herein can be quite slim, light, and occupy a small volume of space (as compared to secondary packaging with paper substrates). Furthermore, the secondary packaging embodiment can be waterproof and provide an improved aseptic environment as discussed above. The inclusion of a foil layer in the secondary package can help minimize light and oxygen penetration into the secondary package. Furthermore, the secondary packaging can be filled with an inert gas to promote greater product stability and improve the idle life of the products contained in the secondary packaging.

As used in this patent specification and in the scope of the attached patent application, the term "inert" generally refers to something that is not chemically reactive, or in other words, something that is chemically stable. Typically, inert gases have been considered as inert gases, as they have been found to lack the ability to participate in any chemical reaction. The term "inert" can be applied in relative terms to describe an object that lacks a chemical reaction under normal or typical environmental conditions.

The terms "sterile" and "disinfection" generally refer to any material or combination of materials that can be brought into physical and fluid contact with contact lenses or other items contained in the final package. Although polypropylene is commonly used as a sterilizable material in packaging, any other material that can produce a sterile environment for contact lenses, medical devices, or dental devices can be used in this paper and method. According to a typical specific example, sterile materials may include any material approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as suitable for packaging of sterile medical devices.

The words "idle life" and "useful life" usually refer to food, beverages, drugs, chemicals and many other perishable items in them. Deemed inappropriate for the length of time available before sale, use or consumption. Idle or useful life is the recommended time that a product can be stored. During this period, the defined quality of the specified proportion of the item is still acceptable under the expected (or specifically specified) conditions of distribution, storage, and display. Most idle life labels or listed expiration dates are used as a guideline based on the normal handling of the product. Contact lenses are a product typically conditioned on a predetermined idle life. The idle life of a contact lens may depend on conditions such as, for example, the material of the contact lens, packaging conditions, and storage conditions.

In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are provided to provide a thorough understanding of the system and method. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the device, system, and method can be implemented without these specific details. In the patent specification, a reference to "a specific example", "an embodiment" or similar text means that the particular configuration, structure or feature described in connection with the specific example or embodiment is included in at least the one specific example , But not necessarily in other specific examples. The wording "in one specific example" or multiple examples of similar phrases in various places in this patent specification are not necessarily all referring to the same specific example.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, an embodiment of a contact lens packaging assembly 10 is shown and described. The contact lens packaging assembly 10 includes a plurality of first or primary lens packages 14 and a second or second lens package 12. At least one primary lens package 14 can be stuffed and stored in the secondary contact lens package 12. In some specific examples, the secondary contact lens package 12 is formed at least partially around at least one primary lens package 14 instead of the primary lens package 14 being inserted into the secondary contact lens package 12. The secondary contact lens The package 12 may provide an inert environment in which the primary lens package 14 is stored. According to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package 12 may include a pair of foil layers that are sealed around the periphery of the secondary contact lens package 12 to define an interior or cavity to store the primary lens package therein. 14. According to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package 12 can define a flexible and flexible structure. The secondary contact lens package 12 can also be resealed.

According to this typical specific example, the first or primary lens package 14 may each include a plurality of first lens package portions 20A-C, each of which includes a substrate 26, a cover sheet 28, and a contact lens receiving portion 30 (see (Figure 4-6). The first exemplary lens packaging portion 20A-C may be separated along a through line 22 (see FIG. 4). The first lens package 14 can hold a plurality of contact lenses 24, which are stored in a contact lens receiving portion 30 between the substrate 26 and the cover sheet 28 (see FIG. 4). This exemplary system and method (for ease of explanation only) will be described if it is incorporated into a primary contact lens package (which includes a polypropylene boat for receiving and containing lenses, covered by a multilayer film). However, any primary contact lens packaging configuration can be firmly fixed in this secondary contact lens package 12, including (but by no means limited to) the primary contact lens package disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,828,137. Way is incorporated herein.

The primary lens packages 14 illustrated in FIG. 4 each include three primary lens package portions. For this primary lens package 14, other architectures and configurations are possible, including, for example, a structure with a single first lens package portion that holds a single contact lens 24. Other specific examples include two or more primary lens packaging portions, and each of the primary lens packages 14 includes a single contact lens 24.

The primary lens package 14 may be relatively thin and have a relatively low profile. In one embodiment, the maximum thickness that the first lens package 14 can have is the sagittal height of the contact lens 24 (when the contact lens 24 is uncompressed and in a resting state), about 25 to 2 times . In another embodiment, the maximum thickness of the first lens package 14 is lower than the sagittal height of the contact lens 24 (when the contact lens 24 is uncompressed and in a resting state).

At least one of the substrate 26 and the cover sheet 28 may include a metal material such as a foil. The base material 26 and the metal material covering the sheet 28 can be provided as a material layer or sheet. At least one of the substrate 26 and the cover sheet 28 may also include a polymer material provided in the form of a layer or a sheet. The polymer material may include, for example, polypropylene. The base material 26 and the cover sheet 28 may be sealed together using, for example, a heat seal or an adhesive. Additionally, according to a typical specific example, the primary lens package can take any configuration, including (but by no means limited to) a package formed from a plurality of sheets.

Storing the first lens package 14 in an inert environment can increase the idle or useful life of the contact lenses 24 retained in the first lens package 14. Furthermore, the first lens package 14 may have a generally flexible soft structure that may benefit from storage and shipping within a structure having additional rigidity and strength to help protect the contact lens 24. The secondary contact lens package 12 can provide this additional protection and support and an inert environment to the first lens package 14 containing the contact lens 24.

The secondary contact lens package 12 may include first and second sheets or layers 40, 42, first and second ends 44, 46, first and second sides 48, 50, an upper surface 52 and a lower surface 54. The secondary contact lens package 12 may define an inner portion 56 having an inner opening 58 at a first end 44 (see FIG. 2). The secondary contact lens package 12 may also include a closed assembly 60 disposed at the first end 44 and associated with the internal opening 58. The closure assembly 60 may include first and second closure members 59, 61 that are joined together to releasably close the internal opening 58.

According to a typical specific example, the first and second sheets 40, 42 may be connected to each other around the periphery. The sealing portion 63 may extend around a portion of the periphery of the first and second sheets 40, 42, such as, for example, all edges except at the inner opening 58. This internal opening 58 can be hermetically closed using a separate sealing step or configuration (e.g., a closed assembly 60). The sealing portion 63 may be defined using a heat sealing method. Other methods and forms of joining the first and second sheets 40, 42 are possible, including, for example, adhesives, and infrared, ultrasonic, and sonic adhesion (see FIG. 4).

The secondary contact lens package 12 may include a plurality of explanatory diagrams arranged on the upper and lower surfaces 52, 54. 1 and 3 illustrate a first explanatory diagram 62 disposed on the upper surface 52 and a second third explanatory diagram 64,66 disposed on the lower surface 54. An additional explanatory diagram or reflective member 70 may be disposed on one of these surfaces, such as the lower surface 54, as shown in FIG. 3. It may include a reflective member carrier 72 (see FIG. 4) and a sheet on which the reflective member 72 is mounted (for example, on the inner surface of the second sheet 42 opposite the position of the reflective member). The first, second, and third illustrations 62, 64, 66 and any or all of the reflective members 72 may convey information to users or provide other functions. For example, the packaging, orientation, and marking can be communicated via the first, second, and third illustrations 62, 64, and 66. And other information. One of the first, second, and third illustrations 62, 64, 66 and the reflection member 72 may include, for example, barcodes, security functions, and tracking data.

According to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package 12 may be filled with an inert gas, which assists in providing an inert environment within the interior 56. In an embodiment of the assembly method, at least one primary lens package 14 is stuffed into the interior 56 of the secondary contact lens package 12 via the internal opening 58. Then, an inert gas is sprayed into the interior 56 to expose the outer surface of the primary lens package 14 to the inert gas. The closure assembly 60 is sealed or otherwise closed to retain the inert gas in the interior 56. Additional method steps may include removing air or oxygen from the interior 56 before, during, or after spraying an inert gas into the interior 56. In some arrangements, in addition to or instead of closing the assembly 60, an additional seal may be formed along the internal opening 58, wherein the additional seal may be broken to gain access to the first lens package 14. After breaking the additional seal, the closure assembly 60 may be used to provide a waterproof, releasable closure of the internal opening 58.

According to a typical specific example, each of the first and second sheets 40, 42 of the secondary contact lens package 12 may include a plurality of layers. The first and second sheets 40, 42 can be constructed as laminated sheets. Referring to FIG. 5A, the first sheet 40 may include a first foil layer 90 and a first polymer layer 92. The second sheet 42 may include a second foil layer 94 and a second polymer layer 96. The first and second polymer layers 92, 96 may be arranged to face each other, so that the first and second sheets 40, 42 are thermally bonded to the first and second polymer layers 92, 96 to form a sealing portion. 63.

The first and second sheets 40, 42 may each include additional material And layers, including, for example, at least one layer containing one or more of the illustration portions 62, 64, 66. The use of a foil layer in the secondary contact lens package 12 may provide light reflectivity (which inhibits the way light enters the interior 56), wherein the light may otherwise provide at least some degradation or impact of the first lens package 14 in the interior Inert environment within 56. The polymer layers 92, 96 of the first and second sheets 40, 42 may include an inert material, such as polypropylene. Other inert materials may similarly be used to create an inert environment in the secondary contact lens package 12.

The foil layers 90 and 94 of the secondary contact lens package 12 can also provide additional strength and durability to the secondary contact lens package 12. The foil layers 90, 94 may also include a corrosion-resistant material. The foil layers 90, 94 may be encapsulated in other layers of non-corrosive material, such as, for example, layers of a polymer substrate.

The material composition of the first and second sheets 40 and 42 and other configurations of the secondary contact lens package 12 can provide a waterproof environment within the interior 56. When the contact lens packaging assembly 10 is used in a high-humidity environment, such as, for example, in a storage cabinet, on a sink, or in a bathroom cabinet (typically storing contact lenses here), providing a waterproof environment may have advantages . When transporting the contact lens package in, for example, a person's pocket, wallet, wallet, bag, suitcase, or other carrying member (where the contact lens packaging assembly 10 can be exposed to, for example, sweat, food or beverage, or high humidity conditions) At 10 o'clock in the assembly, the waterproof viewpoint of the secondary contact lens package 12 can also provide benefits.

The combination of a foil layer and a polymer layer (such as polypropylene) in the first and second sheets 40, 42 of the secondary contact lens package 12 can provide improved moisture or gas resistance through the secondary contact lens package 12 Enter or exit the interior. Regarding the foil-containing packaging layer (such as foil-on-foil) Packaging) architecture, advantages and manufacturing details, and related systems and methods are disclosed in US Patent No. 7,828,137, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The other configurations and functionalities of the lens packaging structure and materials are described in the Singapore patent application and publication name filed on October 18, 2011 "for disposable soft contact lenses with a pre-formed multilayer structure laminated sheet "Packaging", this patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As disclosed in the aforementioned Singapore patent application entitled "Packaging for disposable soft contact lenses with a pre-formed multilayer structure laminated sheet", the primary lens package may include a pre-formed laminated substrate . One layer of the laminated substrate is assembled to provide sufficient structural rigidity to maintain a pre-formed shape (eg, a lens receiving portion) in the substrate. In one embodiment, the first layer includes a polymer material, such as polypropylene. Another layer of the laminated substrate may include a second material that provides properties different from the first layer, such as, for example, light reflectivity, strength, and water / vapor permeability resistance. The package also includes a cover sheet attached to the substrate and a lens receiving portion formed by sealing the contact lens in the substrate. The cover sheet may also be a laminated sheet having at least two layers. The first layer may include, for example, a polymer that assists in attaching the cover sheet to a substrate. Another layer of the cover sheet may include a material having different properties, such as, for example, greater light reflectivity, strength, or resistance to water / vapor permeability.

A further point about this primary lens package is related to a single contact lens package that stores multiple contact lenses. The contact lens package may include a plurality of lens receiving portions (e.g., concaves) formed in the substrate. , Cavities, or "boats"). The lens receiving portions may be arranged in multiple directions (such as multiple columns), wherein each column includes at least one contact lens receiving portion. The columns may be arranged opposite or juxtaposed to each other. Some contact lens packages may provide separation of at least one lens receiving portion from other lens receiving portions. Other arrangements may include a plurality of lens receiving portions that are not separable from each other once the contact lens package is passed through the assembly.

Some primary lens packages may include several layers of material for the cover sheet and substrate, which are added during the assembly of the contact lens package instead of providing the substrate and / or cover sheet as a laminated sheet. In one embodiment, after the contact lens is sealed in the lens receiving portion of the substrate, at least one layer of light reflecting material or liquid / vapor-impermeable material is added to the substrate or cover sheet.

The primary lens package can be produced in a single manufacturing line. The substrate and sheet may include materials capable of maintaining a sterile environment in the packaging of the lens. The sterile environment can be created by heating the first material of the substrate. The photosensitive material disposed in the package can also be protected from light to limit the degradation of the photosensitive material. The substrate and cover sheet may include materials that permit printed illustrations to minimize negative effects on the light-reflecting properties or aseptic environment of the contact lens package. In some arrangements, the contact lens package may be assembled for use as a tamping aid. The material of the contact lens package can promote improved sealing between the substrate and the cover sheet layer. For example, the laminated material used for at least one of the substrate and the cover sheet may include several layers of material in the region, where a seal is formed between the substrate and the cover sheet, which provides an improved seal, such as releasable Hermetically sealed, permanently sealed, hermetically sealed Hermetic sealing, heat sealing, etc.

The secondary contact lens package 12 disclosed herein may have other architectures, such as the following architecture: one of the first and second sheets 40, 42 is assembled into a fairly rigid substrate, and the first and second sheets 40 are The other of 42 is assembled into a pair of cover sheets sealed by the substrate to define an interior having a size capable of receiving at least one first lens package 14. This alternative embodiment can provide an inert environment for the storage of the first lens package 14. This alternative embodiment can provide a waterproof environment for the storage of the first lens package 14. This alternative specific example may include more than one foil layer.

One goal of providing an inert environment (eg, using an inert gas) in the interior 56 of the secondary contact lens package 12 is to improve the degree of sterility assurance of the primary lens package 14. Providing an inert environment within the interior 56 may limit bacterial growth. Providing an inert environment may also allow storage of primary packaging (eg, primary lens packaging 14) with lower standards of water resistance, light reflectivity, gas permeability, and the like within the secondary contact lens package 12. Furthermore, the additional protection against environmental conditions provided by the secondary contact lens package 12 may allow the primary lens package 14 to reduce standards regarding strength, durability, and protection against environmental conditions.

Another application of the secondary contact lens package 12 is to store non-contact lens products that can be volatile for any number of reasons, such as, for example, freshness and idle life. In one embodiment, the secondary contact lens package 12 generally refers to a secondary package that is used to store pre-packaged products such as, for example, drugs, vitamins, supplements, and other food and drug-related products. In at least some instances, the physical and Both chemical viewpoints can be protected by storage in the inert environment provided by the secondary packaging and / or provide extended idle life.

When the secondary packaging is sterilized after the product has been sealed therein, the use of the secondary packaging for storing this rather volatile product can be enhanced with the use of cold sterilization. Even after the secondary package has been opened for access to the product, providing the secondary package with a resealable opening may further expand at least some of the benefits of using the secondary package to the stored product, such as, for example, Waterproof environment, protection from physical damage, reduced exposure to light and protection against the discharge of bacteria, extra oxygen or other debilitating conditions.

In addition to the foil-based packaging, the secondary contact lens package 12 disclosed herein can be manufactured according to any number of manufacturing methods and using some materials. In particular, according to a typical specific example, the secondary contact lens package 12 can be injection molded plastic packaging boxes, coated with wax or polymer for waterproofing, card or paper materials, foil or foil composite packaging, and invisible from other Packaging (such as plastic models used to form contact lenses that are housed in the primary contact lens package) made of recycled materials from lens-related manufacturing processes, and combinations thereof.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-8, another embodiment of a contact lens packaging assembly 100 is shown. The contact lens packaging assembly 100 includes a first or primary lens package 112 stored in a second or secondary lens package 114. The first lens package 112 can be held in the support member 182 before being inserted into and stored in the secondary package 114. The primary lens package 112 may have the same or similar structure as the primary lens package 14 (see FIGS. 1-6).

The secondary lens package 114 may include first and second ends. 144, 146, first and second sides 148, 150, upper and lower surfaces 152, 154, inner 156, inner opening 158, and a sealing portion 162 at opposite ends (see FIG. 7). The secondary lens package 114 may also include an extension 180 along the first and second side edges 148, 150. The expansion portion 180 may include a pair of folds or expandable portions that help increase the size of the interior 156 to fit, for example, the support member 182.

The support member 182 may include a surrounding wall 184 and a recess or cavity 186. The cavity 186 may be sized to receive at least one primary lens package 112. A plurality of primary lens packages 112 may be placed within the cavity 186. The support member 182 of the primary lens package 112 can be plugged into the interior 156 through an interior opening 158. An inert gas may be sprayed into the interior 156 before the secondary lens package 114 is hermetically sealed. At least one of the sealing portions 162 may include a closed assembly that provides a resealable opening into the secondary lens package 114.

Details about the supporting member 182 and its possible role during shipping, storage and use, such as carrying and supporting the first lens package 112, are described in the aforementioned Singapore patent application filed on October 18, 2011 and published The name "Support Structure for Shipment and Storage of Replaceable Contact Lenses".

According to a typical specific example, the secondary lens package 114 may be formed using a single sheet (eg, a laminated sheet including a foil layer) that is folded and sealed along opposite free edges to create a tubular structure. This tubular pattern structure can be sealed at the opposite end to produce the secondary lens package 114 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The expanded portion 180 can be folded before the sealing portion 162 is created Or otherwise form the secondary lens package 114. The primary lens package 112 may be tucked into the secondary lens package 114 before any of the sealed portions are sealed.

In other embodiments, the first and second material sheets (eg, each of the laminated sheets each include a foil layer) may be sealed together around the periphery (such as described above, accompanied by reference to the secondary contact lens package 12). The sealing portion 162 may be formed in the first and second ends 144, 146 in separate sealing steps. In yet a further specific example, the secondary lens package is formed using a continuous, complete tubular member that is hermetically closed at the first and second ends 144, 146 to create a sealed portion 162. The expanded portion 180 may be formed in the tubular structure before or as a part of the sealing portion 162.

The materials used in the secondary lens package 114 may have the same or similar properties, configurations, layers, manufacturing methods, and structures as described above with reference to the secondary contact lens package 12.

One aspect of this disclosure concerns packaging and the inclusion of some form of inert media to preserve the desired conditions in the packaging until the packaging is opened. Another perspective is on packaging, and other configurations that can be used to adjust the packaging's internal conditions to the nature of the product to be stored in the packaging or commensurate with it to optimize the product's idle life or product life. Another view concerns the ability to use heat sensitive ingredients, dyes and materials as part of the primary package held within the secondary package because of the inert environment provided within the secondary package. Another view concerns secondary packaging that provides improved storage and / or shipping conditions for heat-sensitive drugs, vitamins, supplements and other products. A further perspective is on secondary packaging and permitted use. Primary packaging design and materials of lower standards (e.g., strength, sterility, idle life, and gas permeability). At least some of these perspectives of the present disclosure may or may be enhanced with the use of cold sterilization techniques (related to sterilizing the secondary packaging).

Some examples of inert or other gases that may be used within the secondary package include, for example, nitrogen, argon, and other gases (e.g., compatible with the nature, characteristics, or other perspectives of the product held in the secondary package, such as , Blunt).

An embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure relates to an assembly of a contact lens package having at least one first lens package stored in a secondary lens package. Other perspectives are on methods of making or forming secondary lens packages. A further perspective relates to creating an inert environment for storage of at least one primary lens package. Other perspectives are on methods of accessing and storing a plurality of first lens packages within a secondary, resealable lens package. Another method is related to storing a plurality of first lens packages in a waterproof secondary lens package. The secondary lens package is resealable. Many other methods and perspectives of this disclosure are possible.

The foregoing description has appeared to be merely exemplary specific examples that illustrate and describe the system and method. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the system and method to any of the precise forms disclosed. Following the above teachings, many modifications and changes are possible. The scope of the desired system and method is defined by the scope of the following patent applications.

Claims (22)

A contact lens packaging assembly comprising: a sealable primary lens package; at least one contact lens that is sealed in the primary lens package; a sealable secondary lens package; wherein the first lens package is sealed In the secondary lens package to increase the idle life of the at least one contact lens; at least one inert gas is sealed in the secondary lens package and outside the primary lens package; wherein the secondary lens package includes a first A sealed and a closed assembly, wherein the closed assembly is resealable. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of item 1 of the patent application scope, wherein the secondary lens package is assembled into a plurality of primary lens packages. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of item 1 of the patent application scope further includes a support structure which is inserted between the primary lens package and the secondary lens package. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of the first patent application scope, wherein the secondary lens package includes opposite first and second packaging parts, which are sealed around the periphery of the secondary lens package to form a place in which the The inside of the primary lens package. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of item 4 of the patent application, wherein the first and second packaging portions of the secondary lens package each include at least one foil layer. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of the fourth scope of the patent application, wherein the first and second packaging portions of the secondary lens package each include a laminated material having at least one polymer layer and at least one layer containing a metal material . For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of item 1 of the patent application scope, wherein the secondary lens package is structured as a bag containing a flexible material. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of item 1 of the patent application scope, wherein the secondary lens packaging is waterproof. A packaging system includes: a first package assembled to accommodate a product with a limited idle life; a second package assembled to accommodate the first package, wherein the second package provides a first package to the first package An inert environment, which extends the idle life of the product; wherein the second package holds a volume of inert gas; wherein the second package includes a first seal and a closed assembly, wherein the closed assembly is resealable. For example, the patent application for the packaging system of item 9, wherein the product is a contact lens. For example, the patent application for the packaging system of item 9, wherein the product is a drug. For example, the packaging system under the scope of patent application No. 9 wherein the product has nutritional value. For example, the packaging system according to item 9 of the patent application, wherein the second package has a flexible structure. A method for manufacturing a contact lens package, comprising: sealing a contact lens in a primary lens package; sealing the primary lens package in a secondary lens package, the secondary lens package providing an inert to the primary lens package Storage conditions; a volume of inert gas is stored in the secondary lens package; the secondary lens package has a first seal and a closed assembly, wherein the closed assembly is a resealable opening. For example, the method of applying for item 14 of the patent scope further includes making the secondary lens package have first and second laminated layers, which are arranged and sealed together around the secondary lens package to form a package having a size capable of receiving the primary lens package. internal. For example, the method of claim 15, wherein the secondary lens package includes two layers of foil, which are fastened together to define an interior having a size capable of receiving the primary lens package. A method for forming a secondary contact lens package, comprising: providing first and second foil layers; joining the first and second foil layers together to define a packaging interior, the packaging interior being assembled to receive and contain A primary contact lens package for at least one contact lens; forming an air-tight seal in the secondary contact lens package; creating an inert environment inside the package; generating an inert environment including filling the inside of the package with an inert gas; in the second A resealable opening is formed in the secondary contact lens package. The method of claim 17 wherein applying the first and second foil layers includes creating a heat seal. If the method of claim 17 is applied, the method further includes hermetically sealing the inside of the package to maintain the inert environment. The method of claim 17, wherein generating the inert environment includes providing the first and second foil layers with an inert material. For example, the method of claim 17 of the patent scope further includes providing a waterproof environment inside the package. For example, the contact lens packaging assembly of item 8 of the patent application scope, wherein the secondary lens packaging is made of one of laminated foil substrate, injection molding plastic packaging, wax or polymer coated paper, or vacuum formed plastic. .