Syringe nest assembly

A syringe nest assembly includes a base having a first surface and an opposing second surface and a first plate movably coupled to the base. The base includes a plurality of nesting units extending upwardly away from the first surface of the base. Each nesting unit includes a hollow body having a first open end distal from the first surface of the base and an opposing second open end. The first plate has a first surface and an opposing second surface. The first plate includes a plurality of apertures extending from the first surface to the second surface of the first plate. Each aperture of the first plate is generally aligned with a respective nesting unit of the base.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a syringe nest assembly. In particular, the present invention relates to a syringe nest assembly configured to more accurately center the syringes contained therein relative to each other and facilitate the syringes having the correct positioning when interfacing with automated manufacturing, handling packaging, and filling equipment.

A syringe nest is typically a substantially planar tray which sits in a syringe tub and has a plurality of individual nesting units, typically referred to as chimneys, each capable of receiving a syringe, to contain, transport and fill syringes in various manufacturing processes. The syringe nest is typically used in automation processes for the assembly of, for example, pre-filled syringes. The chimneys of a syringe nest have a defined center to center distance that must remain accurate, in order to ensure that the nest is compatible with existing manufacturing, packaging, and filling equipment. The quantity sizes of syringe nests have been increasing in recent years, with 160 chimneys/nest potentially becoming the new standard.

This has caused the syringe chimneys to be formed significantly closer together, particularly for nests requiring larger chimney diameters due to integrated safety systems. However, as the standard chimney diameter increases, it becomes more difficult to maintain the center to center distance which is necessary for ensuring that the syringes properly interface with existing automated manufacturing, handling, packaging, and filling equipment.

Accordingly, there is a need for a syringe nest assembly which ensures that the syringes positioned therein meet the standard requisite center to center distance.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly stated, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a syringe nest assembly including a base having a first surface and an opposing second surface and a first plate movably coupled to the base. The base includes a plurality of nesting units extending upwardly away from the first surface of the base. Each nesting unit includes a hollow body having a first open end distal from the first surface of the base and an opposing second open end. The first plate has a first surface and an opposing second surface. The first plate includes a plurality of apertures extending from the first surface to the second surface of the first plate. Each aperture of the first plate is generally aligned with a respective nesting unit of the base.

In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method of centering two or more syringes in a syringe nest assembly. The syringe nest assembly comprises a base having a first surface and an opposing second surface and a first plate movably coupled to the base. The base includes a plurality of nesting units extending upwardly away from the first surface of the base. Each nesting unit includes a hollow body having a first open end distal from the first surface of the base and an opposing second open end. The first plate has a first surface and an opposing second surface. The first plate includes a plurality of apertures extending from the first surface to the second surface of the first plate. Each aperture of the first plate is generally aligned with a respective nesting unit of the base. The method comprises positioning a first syringe in a first nesting unit and positioning a second syringe in a second nesting unit adjacent the first nesting unit, such that a barrel of each syringe extends through the hollow body of the respective nesting unit; and sliding the first plate in a first direction such that the first plate contacts each syringe and causes each syringe to move toward the interior wall surface of the respective nesting unit until each syringe contacts the interior wall surface of the respective nesting unit.

In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a syringe nest comprising a flexible base having a first surface and an opposing second surface. The base comprises a plurality of nesting units extending upwardly away from the first surface of the base. Each nesting unit comprises a hollow body having a first open end distal from the first surface of the base and an opposing second end. The base further comprises a notch formed at the second end of each nesting unit. Each notch is configured to be in a closed position when no syringe is positioned in the nesting unit and each notch is configured to be in an open position when a syringe is positioned in the nesting unit, such that the syringe extends through the base when the notch is in the open position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the present embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are in simplified form and are not drawn to precise scale. Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right,” “left,” “top,” “bottom” and “lower” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “first,” “second,” “third” and “fourth” designate an order of operations in the drawings to which reference is made, but do not limit these steps to the exact order described. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the assembly and designated parts thereof. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a,” “an” and “the” are not limited to one element, but instead should be read as meaning “at least one.” The terminology includes the words noted above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals and characters indicate like elements throughout, there are shown inFIGS. 1-8, presently preferred embodiments of syringe nest assemblies in accordance with the present invention. With reference initially toFIGS. 1-3B, the syringe nest assembly, generally designated10, includes a syringe nest12and at least one movable plate14.

Referring toFIG. 1, the nest12comprises a generally planar base or tray16having a first surface16aand an opposing second surface16b. The base16further includes a first edge or side40and an opposing second edge or side42. The first and second edges40,42extend parallel to each other. The base16further includes a third edge or side44and an opposing fourth edge or side46. The third and fourth edges44,46extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges40,42. A longitudinal axis X16of the base16extends parallel to the first and second edges40,42from the third edge44toward the fourth edge46(or vice versa).

While the present embodiment is configured with the base16configured as a planar rectangular tray, the base16can alternatively be configured in any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped tray.

The nest12further comprises a plurality of single nesting units, referred to herein as chimneys,18. Each chimney18includes a generally hollow body19that extends distally from the first surface16aof the base16. The hollow body19includes a first open end19adistal from the base16and a second open end19bproximate the base16. The hollow body19also includes an interior wall surface20and an exterior wall surface22. The nest12can also include a syringe34received within each of the plurality of chimneys18.

Referring toFIGS. 3A-3B, in one embodiment, each of the chimneys18preferably has a hexagonal shape or geometry. Thus, each chimney18has six sidewalls24and six connecting lines (also known as vertices or corners)26. The hexagonal chimneys18are arranged in a honeycomb pattern. By the honeycomb pattern, the chimneys18are interconnected in such a manner that at least one sidewall24, and preferably each sidewall24, of one chimney18also forms a sidewall24of another chimney18(i.e., contiguous walls), such that no voids are formed between adjacent chimneys18. Each chimney18thus shares at least one sidewall24with at least one other chimney18. More preferably, with the exception of the outermost peripheral chimneys18, every sidewall24of each chimney18is common to that of another chimney18. Thus, each chimney18shares a common sidewall24with a plurality of other chimneys18.

Conventionally, utilizing solely a honeycomb structure based on the desired center to center distance would require excessive wall thickness to form a platform on which flanges of the syringes may rest, which would be disadvantageous for injection molding. The present invention, however, avoids such excess wall thickness. In particular, each of the hexagonal chimneys18has a relatively large diameter that enables maintaining a predetermined center to center distance D of the syringes34contained therein, but also does not have an excessive sidewall24thickness.

It will, however, be understood that the chimneys18need not have a hexagonal geometry and need not be arranged in a honeycomb pattern. Indeed, the chimneys18may be cylindrical and arranged in any pattern, with or without gaps or voids between adjacent chimneys.

Referring toFIGS. 3A-3B, in one embodiment, each of the outermost chimneys18proximate the first edge40of the base16include a projecting protrusion, rim or flange48extending outwardly away from the chimney body19toward the first edge40. More particularly, at the first open end19aof each perimeter chimney18proximate the first edge40, a portion of the chimney body19includes or is formed as a peripheral flange48which projects outwardly away from the chimney body19toward the first edge40. In the case of hexagonal chimneys18, the peripheral flange48is formed on one sidewall24at the first open end19aof the chimney body19.

Collectively, the peripheral flanges48of the outermost chimneys18proximate the first edge40define a first longitudinally extending peripheral flange50, and more particularly a first peripheral flange50which extends along the first edge40of the base16, in the plane of the first open ends19aof the chimney bodies19and distal from the base16. The first peripheral flange50extends along the longitudinal axis X16(i.e., from the third edge44toward the fourth edge46or vice versa). The first peripheral flange50comprises the spaced apart individual flanges48proximate the first edge40, each of which extends along the longitudinal axis X16(i.e., from the third edge44toward the fourth edge46or vice versa).

Preferably, at the first open end19aof each of the outermost chimneys18proximate the second edge42of the base16, a portion of the chimney body19also includes or is formed as a peripheral protrusion or flange48which projects outwardly from the chimney body19toward the second edge42. That is, a sidewall of each chimney18immediately adjacent the first and second edges40,42includes a peripheral flange48. Collectively, the peripheral flanges48of the outermost chimneys18proximate the second edge42define a second peripheral flange50which extends along the second edge42of the base16, in the plane of the first open ends19aof the chimney bodies19and distal from the base16. The second peripheral flange50extends along the longitudinal axis X16(i.e., from the third edge44toward the fourth edge46or vice versa). Thus, the second peripheral flange50mirrors the first peripheral flange50. The second peripheral flange50comprises the spaced apart individual flanges48proximate the second edge42, each of which extends along the longitudinal axis X16(i.e., from the third edge44toward the fourth edge46or vice versa).

The plate14has a generally planar form and includes a first surface14aand an opposing second surface14b. In an assembled position of the syringe nest assembly10, the second surface14bfaces the first surface16aof the base16. The plate14further includes a first edge or side52and an opposing second edge or side54. The first and second edges52,54extend parallel to each other. The plate14further includes a third edge or side56and an opposing fourth edge or side58. The third and fourth edges56,58extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges52,54. A longitudinal axis X14of the plate14extends parallel to the first and second edges52,54from the third edge56toward the fourth edge58(or vice versa).

While the present embodiment is configured with the plate14configured as a planar rectangular form, the plate14can alternatively be configured into any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped form. Preferably, however, the shape of the plate14conforms to that of the base16.

The plate14further comprises a plurality of spaced apart openings or apertures60which extend from the first surface14ato the second surface14b. The apertures60are defined by sidewalls61extending through the body of the plate14from the first surface14ato the second surface14b. The position of each aperture60corresponds to (i.e., is configured to be aligned with) a respective one of the chimneys18of the nest12. The apertures60may have any geometric shape. Preferably, the apertures60are cylindrical (e.g., circular in cross-section). However, it will be understood that the apertures60may alternatively be hexagonal or any other shape which complements the shape of the associated chimney18.

In one embodiment, the first edge52of the plate14includes a first elongated slot or groove62configured to mate with the first peripheral flange50(i.e., the individual flanges48of the peripheral chimneys18) of the base16. More particularly, the first edge52of the plate14is provided with an L-shaped form which extends downwardly from the first edge52and defines the first elongated slot62therein. The first elongated slot62extends along the longitudinal axis X14of the plate14(i.e., from the third edge56toward the fourth edge58or vice versa). The first peripheral flange50of the perimeter chimneys18of the first edge40of the nest12is received and movable within the first elongated slot62. By this engagement, the plate14is slidable relative to the nest12, and more particularly the base16and chimneys18.

Preferably, the second edge54of the plate14includes a second elongated slot or groove62configured to mate with the second peripheral flange50of the base16. More particularly, the second edge54of the plate14is provided with an L-shaped form which extends downwardly from the second edge54and defines the second elongated slot62therein. The second elongated slot62extends along the longitudinal axis X14of the plate14(i.e., from the third edge56toward the fourth edge58or vice versa). The second peripheral flange50of the perimeter chimneys18of the second edge42of the nest12is received and movable within the second elongated slot62. By this engagement, the plate14is slidable relative to the nest12, and more particularly the base16and chimneys18.

More particularly, the plate14is slidable in a first direction A or an opposing second direction B relative to the nest12, the first and second directions being parallel to the longitudinal axes X14, X16of the plate14and base16, respectively. As described in further detail below, by this sliding movement, the plate14can move the syringes34in order to maintain a predetermined center to center distance D between the syringes34placed within each chimney18(e.g., as required by manufacturers) (seeFIGS. 2B and 3B). The predetermined center to center distance D refers to the distance between a center C of a syringe34arranged in one chimney18and a center C of a syringe34arranged in an adjacent chimney18.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the first and second peripheral flanges50of the base16need not be formed along the first and second edges40,42of the base16and the corresponding first and second elongated slots62need not be formed along the first and second edges52,54of the plate14. Instead, the flanges and slots may be formed along the third and fourth edges44,46and56,58of the base16and plate14, such that the plate14is slidable in a third or fourth direction which are perpendicular to the first and second directions A, B (i.e., directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X14, X16of the plate14and base16, respectively). Alternatively, the flanges may be formed proximate certain edges52,54,56,58of the plate14, while the slots are formed proximate corresponding edges40,42,44,46of the base16.

In a first, assembled position of the syringe nest assembly10, as shown inFIG. 2A, the plate14is coupled to the nest12, such that the first and second peripheral flanges50of the base16are received within the first and second elongated slots62of the plate14. As such, the plate14and the base16are movable, and more particularly slidable, relative to each other along the longitudinal axes X14, X16. A syringe34is positioned within one or more of the apertures60and corresponding chimneys18of the assembly10. However, the syringes34are not properly centered, meaning they are not positioned so as to maintain the predetermined center to center distance D between adjacent syringes34.

In one embodiment, in the assembled position, a flange64of each syringe34is positioned above the plane of the plate14and a barrel66of each syringe34is positioned within (and extends through) an aperture60of the plate14and a corresponding chimney18of the nest12. The flange64of each syringe34may either rest on the first surface14aof the plate14or may be proximate to but not in contact with the first face14a.

In another embodiment, in the assembled position, the flange64of each syringe34is positioned within an aperture60of the plate14(e.g., within a counterbore) and the barrel66of each syringe is positioned within (and extends through) a corresponding chimney18of the nest12.

To place syringe nest assembly10in a second position, in which the syringes34are in the predetermined center to center distance D, the plate14moves, and more particularly, slides in the first direction A along the longitudinal axis X14. The sliding movement of the plate14causes the inner sidewall61of the apertures60of the plate14to come into contact with either the barrel66or the flange64of the syringe34positioned therein. By this contact, the plate14causes the syringe34to move with the plate14in the first direction A toward the interior wall surface20of the respective chimney18. The sliding movement of the plate14and syringes34continues until the barrel66of each syringe34abuts or contacts a portion of the interior wall surface20of the chimney18in which the syringe34is positioned (seeFIGS. 2B and 3B). Thus, the second position of the syringe nest assembly10, as shown inFIGS. 2B and 3B, is attained, wherein the syringes34are positioned according to the requisite center to center distance D.

FIGS. 4A-5depict another embodiment of a syringe nest assembly100according to the present invention. The syringe nest assembly100is generally similar to the syringe nest assembly10ofFIGS. 1-3B, except in certain aspects as discussed below.

Referring toFIGS. 4A-4B, the syringe nest assembly100includes a syringe nest102and at least one movable plate104. The nest102comprises a generally planar base or tray106having a first surface106aand an opposing second surface106b. The base106further includes a first edge or side140and an opposing second edge or side142. The first and second edges140,142extend parallel to each other. The base106further includes a third edge or side144and an opposing fourth edge or side146. The third and fourth edges144,146extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges140,142. A longitudinal axis X106of the base106extends parallel to the first and second edges140,142from the third edge144toward the fourth edge146(or vice versa).

The base16is preferably configured as a planar rectangular tray, but can alternatively be configured in any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped tray.

The nest102further comprises a plurality of chimneys108, and more preferably a plurality of spaced-apart chimneys108(i.e., there is a gap between adjacent chimneys108). However, it will be understood that the chimney108may be arranged in any pattern, such as, for example, the honeycomb pattern described with respect toFIGS. 1-3B.

Each chimney108includes a generally hollow body109that extends distally from the first surface106aof the base106. The hollow body109includes a first open end109adistal from the base106and a second open end109bproximate the base16. The hollow body109also includes an interior wall surface120and an exterior wall surface122. The nest102can also include a syringe134received within each of the plurality of chimneys108.

Referring toFIGS. 4A-5, in one embodiment, each of the chimneys108preferably has a cylindrical shape or geometry. However, it will be understood that the chimneys108may have any suitable shape or geometry, such as, for example, the hexagonal geometry discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-3B.

Referring toFIGS. 4A-5, in one embodiment, the base106includes a first elongated slot162formed proximate to or at the first edge140. The first elongated slot162preferably extends along the longitudinal axis X106of the base106(i.e., from proximate the third edge144toward the fourth edge146or vice versa). The base106further preferably includes a second elongated slot162formed proximate to or at the second edge142which similarly extends along the longitudinal axis X106of the base106.

The plate104has a generally planar form and includes a first surface104aand an opposing second surface104b. In an assembled position of the syringe nest assembly100, the second surface104bfaces the first surface106aof the base106. The plate104further includes a first edge or side152and an opposing second edge or side154. The first and second edges152,154extend parallel to each other. The plate104further includes a third edge or side156and an opposing fourth edge or side158. The third and fourth edges156,158extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges152,154. A longitudinal axis X104of the plate104extends parallel to the first and second edges152,154from the third edge156toward the fourth edge158(or vice versa).

While the plate104is preferably configured as a planar rectangular form, the plate104can alternatively be configured into any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped form. Preferably, however, the shape of the plate104conforms to that of the base106.

The plate104further comprises a central raised portion105. The central raised portion105, has a distal surface105aextending in a plane that is above the plane of the first surface104aof the plate104. The plate104further comprises plurality of openings or apertures160which extend through the body of the plate104, and more particularly from the distal surface105aof the raised portion105to the second surface104bof the plate104. The apertures160are defined by sidewalls161extending through the body of the plate104, and more particularly from the distal surface105aof the raised portion105to the second surface104bof the plate104. The position of each aperture160corresponds to (i.e., is aligned with) a respective one of the chimneys108of the nest102. The apertures160may have any geometric shape. Preferably, the apertures160are cylindrical (e.g., circular in cross-section). However, it will be understood that the apertures160may alternatively be hexagonal or any other shape which complements the shape of the associated chimney108.

The plate104further preferably comprises at least one post112, and more preferably a plurality of spaced-apart posts112. More particularly, a plurality of spaced-apart posts112are preferably formed or otherwise provided proximate to or at the first edge152of the plate104. Preferably, a plurality of spaced-apart posts112are also formed or otherwise provided proximate to or at the second edge154of the plate104.

Each post112has a first proximal end112aand an opposing second distal end112a. The first proximal end112ais preferably attached to or integrally formed with the plate104, and more preferably the second surface104bof the plate104. The distal end112aof each post112is distal from the plate104. Thus, each post112is a downwardly facing post. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the term “post” is used herein for merely illustrative purposes, and may easily be replaced by another appropriate term, such as pin, tab, protrusion, bar, and the like.

Referring toFIG. 5, the distal end112aof each post112is preferably movably coupled to the base106, and more particularly one of the elongated slots162of the base106. More particularly, the distal end112aof each post112includes first and second tongues114. The first tongue114protrudes outwardly away from the body of the post112in a first direction, while the second tongue114protrudes outwardly away from the body of the post112in a second direction opposite of the first direction. Each post112, and more particularly the distal end112aof each post112, formed proximate the first edge152of the plate104is configured to mate with the first elongated slot162of the base106. Each post112, and more particularly the distal end112aof each post112, formed proximate the second edge154of the plate104is configured to mate with the second elongated slot162of the base106. More particularly, in the mated configuration, the distal end112aof each post112engages one of the elongated slots162, such that one of the first and second tongues114extends towards the first edge140of the base106and engages the first surface106aof the base106, while the other one of the first and second tongues114extends away from the first edge140of the base106and engages the second surface106bof the base106.

The posts112of the plate104are thus received and movable within the first and second elongated slots162of the base106. By this engagement, the plate104is slidable relative to the nest102, and more particularly the base106and chimneys108. More particularly, the plate104is slidable in a first direction A or an opposing second direction B relative to the nest102, the first and second directions being parallel to the longitudinal axes X104, X106of the plate104and base106, respectively.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the first and second elongated slots162of the base106need not be formed along the first and second edges140,142of the base106and the corresponding posts112of the plate104need not be formed along the first and second edges152,154of the plate104. Instead, the slots and posts may be formed along the third and fourth edges144,146and156,158of the base106and plate104, such that the plate104is slidable in a third or fourth direction which are perpendicular to the first and second directions A, B (i.e., directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X104, X106of the plate104and base106, respectively).

In a first, assembled position of the syringe nest assembly100, as shown inFIG. 4A, the plate104is coupled to the nest102, such that the distal ends112aof the posts112of the plate104are received within the first and second elongated slots162of the base106. As such, the plate104and the base106are movable, and more particularly slidable, relative to each other along the longitudinal axes X104, X106. A syringe134is positioned within one or more of the apertures160and corresponding chimneys108of the assembly100. However, the syringes134are not properly centered, meaning they are not positioned so as to maintain the predetermined center to center distance D between adjacent syringes134.

In one embodiment, in the assembled position, a flange164of each syringe134is positioned within an aperture160of the plate104and a barrel166of each syringe134is positioned within (and extends through) a corresponding chimney108of the nest102. Each aperture160includes a counterbore which captures the syringe flange164therein on both the top and bottom sides of the flange164, which allows for better control of the skewness of the syringes134.

In another embodiment (not shown), the flange,164of each syringe134is positioned above the plane of the raised portion105of the plate104and the barrel166of each syringe134is positioned within (and extends through) an aperture160of the plate104and a corresponding chimney108of the nest102. The flange164of each syringe134may either rest on the distal surface105aof the raised portion105of the plate104or may be proximate to but not in contact with the distal surface105a. In another embodiment, the plate104does not include the raised portion105, such that the flange164of each syringe134rest on the first surface104aof the plate104or is proximate to but not in contact with the first surface104a.

To place the syringe nest assembly100in a second position, shown inFIG. 4B, in which the syringes134are in the predetermined center to center distance D, the plate104moves, and more particularly, slides in the first direction A along the longitudinal axis X104. The sliding movement of the plate104causes the inner sidewall161of the apertures160to come into contact with the flange164(or the barrel166) of the syringe134positioned therein. By this contact, the plate104causes the syringe134to move with the plate104in the first direction A toward the interior wall surface120of the respective chimney108. The sliding movement of the plate104and syringes134continues until the barrel166of each syringe134abuts or contacts a portion of the interior wall surface120of the chimney108in which the syringe134is positioned. Thus, the second position of the syringe nest assembly100, as shown inFIG. 4B, is attained, wherein the syringes134are positioned according to the requisite center to center distance D.

FIGS. 6A-6Bdepict another embodiment of a syringe nest assembly200according to the present invention. The syringe nest assembly200is generally similar to the syringe nest assembly10ofFIGS. 1-3B, except in certain aspects as discussed below.

Referring toFIGS. 6A-6B, the syringe nest assembly200includes a syringe nest202and at least one movable plate204. More preferably, the syringe nest assembly200includes a first movable plate204and a second movable plate280. The nest202is generally similar to the syringe nest102ofFIGS. 4A-5, except in certain aspects as discussed below. The nest202comprises a generally planar base or tray206having a first surface206aand an opposing second surface206b. The base206further includes a first edge or side240and an opposing second edge or side242. The first and second edges240,242extend parallel to each other. The base206further includes a third edge or side244and an opposing fourth edge or side246. The third and fourth edges244,246extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges240,242. A longitudinal axis X206of the base206extends parallel to the first and second edges240,242from the third edge244toward the fourth edge246(or vice versa).

The base206is preferably configured as a planar rectangular tray, but can alternatively be configured in any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped tray.

The nest202further comprises a plurality of chimneys208, and more preferably a plurality of spaced-apart chimneys208(i.e., there is a gap between adjacent chimneys208). However, it will be understood that the chimney208may be arranged in any pattern, such as, for example, the honeycomb pattern described with respect toFIGS. 1-3B.

Each chimney208includes a generally hollow body209that extends distally from the first surface206aof the base206. The hollow body209includes a first open end209adistal from the base206and a second open end209bproximate the base206. The hollow body209also includes an interior wall surface220and an exterior wall surface222. The nest202can also include a syringe (not shown) received within each of the plurality of chimneys208.

Referring toFIGS. 6A-6B, in one embodiment, each of the chimneys208preferably has a cylindrical shape or geometry. However, it will be understood that the chimneys208may have any suitable shape or geometry, such as, for example, the hexagonal geometry discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1-3B.

In one embodiment, a first L-shaped member296is provided proximate to or at the first edge240of the base206. Preferably, a second L-shaped member296is also provided proximate to or at the second edge242of the base206. Each L-shaped member296extends downwardly from the bottom surface206bof the base206and defines a first elongated slot or groove262therein. Each L-shaped member296and each elongated slot262extend along the longitudinal axis X206of the base206(i.e., from the third edge244toward the fourth edge246or vice versa).

The first plate204has a generally planar form and includes a first surface204aand an opposing second surface204b. In an assembled position of the syringe nest assembly200, the first surface204aof the plate204faces the second surface206bof the base206. The first plate204further includes a first edge or side252and an opposing second edge or side254. The first and second edges252,254extend parallel to each other. The first plate204further includes a third edge or side256and an opposing fourth edge or side (not visible inFIGS. 6A-6B). The third edge256and the fourth edge extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges252,254. A longitudinal axis X204of the first plate204extends parallel to the first and second edges252,254from the third edge256toward the fourth edge (or vice versa).

The first and second edges252,254of the plate204are received and movable within the first and second elongated slots262, respectively, of the base206. By this engagement, the first plate204is slidable relative to the nest202, and more particularly the base206and chimneys208.

The first plate204further comprises plurality of openings or apertures260which extend through the body of the first plate204, and more particularly from the first surface204ato the second surface204bof the first plate204. The apertures260are defined by sidewalls261extending through the body of the first plate204, and more particularly from the first surface204ato the second surface204bof the first plate204. The position of each aperture260corresponds to (i.e., is aligned with) a respective one of the chimneys208of the nest202. The apertures260may have any geometric shape. Preferably, the apertures260are cylindrical (e.g., circular in cross-section). However, it will be understood that the apertures260may alternatively be hexagonal or any other shape which complements the shape of the associated chimney208.

The second plate280has a generally planar form and includes a first surface280aand an opposing second surface280b. In an assembled position of the syringe nest assembly200, the first surface280aof the second plate280faces the second surface204bof the first plate204. The second plate280further includes a first edge or side286and an opposing second edge or side288. The first and second edges286,288extend parallel to each other. The second plate280further includes a third edge or side292and an opposing fourth edge or side294. The third and fourth edges292,294extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to the first and second edges286,288. A longitudinal axis X280of the second plate280extends parallel to the first and second edges286,288from the third edge292toward the fourth edge294(or vice versa).

The first and second edges286,288of the second plate280are also received and movable within the first and second elongated slots262, respectively, of the base206. By this engagement, the second plate280is slidable relative to the nest202, and more particularly the base206and chimneys208, and is also slidable relative to the first plate204.

More particularly, each of the first and second plates204,280is independently slidable in a first direction A or an opposing second direction B relative to the nest202, the first and second directions being parallel to the longitudinal axis X206of the base16.

The second plate280further comprises plurality of openings or apertures282which extend through the body of the second plate280, and more particularly from the first surface280ato the second surface280bof the second plate280. The apertures282are defined by sidewalls283extending through the body of the plate second280, and more particularly from the first surface280ato the second surface208bof the second plate280. The position of each aperture282corresponds to (i.e., is aligned with) a respective one of the chimneys208of the nest202and a respective one of the apertures260of the first plate204. The apertures282may have any geometric shape. Preferably, the apertures282are cylindrical (e.g., circular in cross-section). However, it will be understood that the apertures282may alternatively be hexagonal or any other shape which complements the shape of the associated chimney208and aperture260of the first plate204.

While the plates204,280are each preferably configured as a planar rectangular form, the plates204,280can alternatively be configured into any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped form. Preferably, however, the shape of the plates204,280conforms to that of the base206.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the first and second elongated slots262of the base206need not be formed along the first and second edges240,242of the base206. Instead, the slots262may be formed along the third and fourth edges244,246of the base206, such that the third and fourth edges256and292,294of the first and second plates204,280are received within the slots262and slidable in a third or fourth direction which are perpendicular to the first and second directions A, B (i.e., directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X206of the base106).

In a first, assembled position of the syringe nest assembly200, as shown inFIG. 6A, the first and second plates204,280are coupled to the nest202, such that the third edge256of the first plate204and the third edge292of the second plate280are received within the first elongated slot262of the base206and the fourth edge of the first plate204and the fourth edge294of the second plate280are received within the second elongated slot262of the base206. As such, the first plate204, the second plate280and the base206are movable, and more particularly slidable, relative to each other along the longitudinal axes X204, X280, X206. A syringe (not-shown) is positioned within one or more of the apertures260,282and corresponding chimneys208of the assembly200, in any of the manners described above.

To place the syringe nest assembly200in a second position, shown inFIG. 6B, in which the syringes are in the predetermined center to center distance D, the second plate280moves, and more particularly, slides in the first direction A along the longitudinal axis X280and the first plate204(generally simultaneously) slides in the second direction B along the longitudinal axis X204. The sliding movement of the first and second plates204,280in opposite directions (and more particularly in opposite directions towards the syringe) causes the inner sidewalls261,283of the apertures260,282to come into contact with the flange or barrel of the syringe positioned therein. By this contact, the first and second plates204,280center the syringe (i.e., position the syringes according to the requisite center to center distance D) as described above.

In one embodiment, a portion of the base16,106,206namely at one of the edges, is recessed or indented to form an arcuate shaped edge hole70,170,270. In some embodiments, an arcuate shaped edge ridge172,272may extend generally perpendicularly from the base16,106,206and surround the edge hole70,170,270. The edge rib172,272(if present) provides stiffness and strength for the base16,106,206proximate the edge holes70,170,270. Also, in one embodiment, an arcuate shaped hole71,174,284,290is formed proximate one or more of the edges of the plate14,104,204,280. The edge holes70,170,270of the base16,106,206are preferably configured to be aligned with the edge holes71,174,284,290of the plate14,104,204,280. One or more edge holes70,170,270,71,174,284,290are preferably included in the base16,106,206and plate14,104,204,280such that a user is able to insert a finger or tool or automated equipment is able to grasp the base16,106,206and/or plate14,104,204,280through the edge holes70,170,270,71,174,284,290for ease of gripping and moving the plates14,104,204,280and/or base16,106,206. The edge holes70,170,270,71,174,284,290are not limited to inclusion in the edges of the base16,106,206and plate14,104,204,280and may be instead positioned at nearly any location on the base16,106,206and plate14,104,204,280.

Referring toFIGS. 7-8, there is shown another embodiment according to the present invention. The syringe nest assembly400ofFIGS. 7-8comprises a syringe nest having a generally planar base or tray406having a first surface406aand an opposing second surface406b. Unlike the bases16,106,206ofFIGS. 1-6B, which are generally rigid, the base406ofFIGS. 7-8is formed of a relatively flexible material. While the present embodiment is configured with the base406configured as a planar rectangular tray, the base406can alternatively be configured in any planar fashion suitable for its intended use, such as a planar circular, square, oval, or octagonal shaped tray.

The nest400further comprises a plurality of single nesting units, referred to herein as chimneys,408. Each chimney408includes a generally hollow body409that extends distally from the first surface406aof the base406. The hollow body409includes a first open end409adistal from the base16and a second end409bproximate the base406. The hollow body409also includes an interior wall surface420and an exterior wall surface422. The nest402is configured to receive a syringe (not shown) within each of the plurality of chimneys408.

Referring toFIG. 7, in one embodiment, each of the chimneys408preferably has a hexagonal shape or geometry, and the hexagonal chimneys408are arranged in a honeycomb pattern, as described above with respect toFIGS. 1-3B. It will, however, be understood that the chimneys408need not have a hexagonal geometry and need not be arranged in a honeycomb pattern. Indeed, the chimneys408may be cylindrical and arranged in any pattern, with or without gaps or voids between adjacent chimneys.

At the proximate end409bof each chimney408, the flexible base406includes a selectively openable/closable notch410. Preferably, the notch410is formed by a pair of cross-cuts made in the material of the flexible base406. As such, the proximate end409bof each chimney408includes four flaps412of the flexible base406material formed by the cross-cuts.

Each notch410is in a closed position, as shown inFIGS. 7-8, when no syringe is positioned within the chimney408. However, when a syringe is placed within the chimney408, the barrel of the syringe extends through the hollow body409of the chimney408and through the flexible base406at the notch410. As such, the notch410is placed in an open position, wherein the flaps412surround and resilient grip the syringe barrel, thereby centering or stabilizing the syringe to achieve the predetermined center to center distance between adjacent syringes.

The base406may be formed of any flexible material. Preferably, the base406is a thin film of polypropylene or is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer that is bonded to the bottom of the chimneys408via heat staking, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, and the like, or is integrally formed with the chimneys408.