Abstract:
A container for moisture sensitive test elements comprising a container body ( 2, 102, 202 ), an insert ( 22, 122, 220 ) fitting in container body, whereby a cavity ( 18, 118 ) is created between outer surface of insert wall ( 24, 124, 240 ) and inner surface of container body wall ( 4, 104, 204 ), and a lid ( 50, 150, 250 ) dimensioned to seal container open end when in a closed position, wherein a desiccant material is contained within the cavity ( 18, 118 ) between container body wall and insert wall. Insert wall defines a hollow channel ( 29, 129, 229 ) which is dimensioned that at least one test element ex-tents from the insert channel facilitating accessibility to an individual test element for the testing of an analyte of interest. Desiccant material includes an indicator whose colour changes when exposed to moisture indicating to a user whether contents therein, i.e. test elements, have been compromised by environmental factors.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to a resealable container. More particularly, the present invention relates to a resealable container for storing moisture sensitive test elements, e. g. test elements for testing analytes such as glucose in bodily fluids. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The use of devices at the point of care has become increasingly common and prevalent over the last few years with the development of electronic miniaturization techniques, improved test element technology, and the increasing number of individuals eager to self-manage their diseases. 
         [0003]    One disease which is becoming common in the western world is diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a disease characterised by persistent hyperglycemia, resulting either from inadequate secretion of the hormone insulin, an inadequate response of target cells to insulin, or a combination of these factors. In 2006, according to the World Health Organization, at least 171 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes. Its incidence is increasing rapidly, and it is estimated that by the year 2030, this number will double. 
         [0004]    Diabetes mellitus affects people of all ages and currently no known cure exists. People suffering from such a chronic disease are recommended by a Health Care Professional (HCP) to establish their blood glucose concentrations, often several times per day, to minimize the long term complications emanating from such a disease. For example, the impact of uncontrolled or erratic blood glucose levels can lead to a high risk of other diseases occurring, such as kidney failure, sight impairment, and nerve damage. 
         [0005]    Measuring the glucose concentration in samples of physiological fluid is a particularly common task. Generally, such a task is performed by means of a diagnostic kit. The kit may typically include a lancing device, lancets, a container containing test elements, and of course a portable diagnostic device. 
         [0006]    Performing a diagnostic test usually involves a user removing a test element from a vial or container, inserting the test element into the portable diagnostic device, pricking of a finger with the lancing device, and subsequently applying a physiological sample fluid e.g. capillary blood, onto an application area of the test element. Evaluation of an analyte concentration is performed and the user notified of the result after a few moments. Spent test elements are removed from the diagnostic device and appropriately disposed. 
         [0007]    Furthermore, patients who diligently and conscientiously follow HCP guidelines in performing regular glucose measurements are generally at risk of developing calluses and/or blisters at the lance point i.e. finger tips. Such conditions generally cause patients great discomfort and in extreme cases a loss of finger tip sensation, thus reducing the likelihood of efficient removal of test elements from currently known vials or containers. Additionally, such a loss of sensation increases the risk of the patient of spilling the entire contents of the vial or container during intended removal of a single test element, thus leading to a potential contamination of each test element. 
         [0008]    Even so, patients unaffected by calluses and/or blisters are equally challenged in efficient removal of test elements due to the dimensional limitations of both test elements and containers. Of course, such problems are exasperated for sight impaired patients, an impairment being a particular consequence of diabetes mellitus, resulting in intended removal of a single test element from a container being extremely problematic. 
         [0009]    Another problem is the protection of the moisture sensitive test elements from environmental factors, above all from moisture absorption. Absorption of moisture by the test elements can lead to a falsification of the test results and can therefore make the test elements useless. 
         [0010]    Vials or containers for protecting articles from environmental factors have long been considered an important area of research, and as an example U.S. Pat. No. 3,826,358 published to Butler et al., on July 30, 1974 discloses a tubular container having inwardly projecting holding means and cushion means frictionally engaged therewith adjacent a bottom end wall. Furthermore, an ambient effective insert may be retained between the cushion means and the bottom end wall. Such a container is for the containment of tablets. 
         [0011]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,114,003 (Expired) published to Jackisch et al., on May 19, 1992 discloses a desiccant canister which is filled with fresh desiccant and immediately sealed against moisture. The sealed canister is placed in the base of a tablet container. Immediately before the tablets are placed in the container the desiccant canister is punctured to expose the desiccant to the air in the container. Tablets are then placed in the container and the container is sealed against the ambient air. 
         [0012]    U.S. Pat. No. 3,254,784 published to Lancesseur on June 7, 1966 discloses a closure for a bottle, which comprises a disc-like base portion and a skirt defining a cavity with a body of dehydrating material received in the cavity. 
         [0013]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,234 published to Sacherer et al., on May 30, 1989 discloses a container for test elements for the analysis of body fluids. Such a container comprises a container body with a circular removal opening, a sealing surface facing the axis of the opening and a stopper for the closure of the removal opening. The stopper has a cover plate, a hollow plug attached thereto with an outwardly facing sealing beading, a drying agent cell within the hollow plug and a support insert by means of which the hollow plug is supported on its inner side. Clearly, test elements are loosely contained within the container, making removal of a single test element an arduous task to all but dexterous individuals. 
         [0014]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,3937 published to Hekal on June 15, 1999 discloses a desiccant entrained polymer having a polymer matrix within which a desiccant agent is entrained in the structure of the product itself or in an appropriate insert. 
         [0015]    Furthermore, several attempts have been made over the years to address the issue of easier handling of test elements contained within a container. For example, United States Patent Application 2004/0007585 and published to Griffith et al., on Jan. 15, 2004 discloses a test element container for storing and dispensing test elements having a container configured to store a stack of test elements and to dispense the test elements from the container one at a time. A biasing means is additionally included for biasing the stack of test elements to facilitate one-by-one dispensing. Such biasing pushes the stack of test elements in a horizontal upwards movement towards an opening, that is, in a movement which is parallel to a base. 
         [0016]    However, such a construction of a container relies on mechanical components for user removal of a test element which are susceptible to malfunctions. Moreover, manufacture of such containers is somewhat expensive. 
         [0017]    Thus, it is an object of the present invention to provide a container which simplifies user removal of a test element therefrom and which is simple in design and inexpensive to manufacture. 
         [0018]    It is another object of the present invention to provide a container having hygroscopic properties such that contained test elements are protected from environmental factors such as moisture. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0019]    The above identified objects are solved by a container for moisture sensitive test elements according to claim  1 , comprising a container body, an insert fitting in container body and being dimensioned that a cavity is created between outer surface of insert wall and inner surface of container wall, and a lid dimensioned to seal container open end when in a closed position, wherein a desiccant material is contained within the cavity between container body and insert. 
         [0020]    The inventive container is constructed in such a manner that removal of a test element therefrom is simplified. Therefore, insert, having a rectangular hollow channel, is dimensioned to receive a stack of test elements oriented in an upright formation. Preferably, hollow channel is dimensioned that at least one test element extends from the insert channel facilitating accessibility to an individual test element when lid is in open position. 
         [0021]    In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container is designed that it is indicated to a user whether contents therein, i.e. test elements, have been compromised by environmental factors. Therefore, desiccant material contained in the container cavity preferably includes an indicator whose colour changes when exposed to moisture, and container body preferably comprises a transparent wall whereas insert wall preferably is opaque. 
         [0022]    The preferably cylindrical container for the containment of diagnostic test elements is simple in design and inexpensive in manufacture. 
         [0023]    The inventive container containing the test elements may be used in a point of care and home setting. Such test elements may be used for determining the concentration of glucose in a small sample of physiological fluid and/or for determining the coagulation properties in a small sample of blood and/or for evaluating an affinity reaction between an analyte of interest and a recognition element. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0024]    A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings of which: 
           [0025]      FIG. 1  shows a simplified perspective view of a container according the present invention having a lid in a sealed position; 
           [0026]      FIG. 2  shows the container body having a discontinuity in the container wall according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0027]      FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of an insert according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0028]      FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of insert disposed within container body having a lid in an open position; 
           [0029]      FIG. 5  shows a cut-away view of the lid according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0030]      FIG. 6  shows a cross-sectional view along line A-A′ of  FIG. 1  with an insert having integral lid in a closed position and disposed within container body according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0031]      FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional view along line of A-A′ of  FIG. 1  with an insert disposed within container body, and having a lid in an open position according to an other embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0032]      FIG. 8  shows an exploded view of  FIG. 7  depicting a hollow space between inner surface of container wall and outer surface of insert, and a retaining element integral with a lid; 
           [0033]      FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of a retaining element integral with a lid; 
           [0034]      FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of an insert having an integral lid according to an other embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0035]      FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of an insert according to  FIG. 10  disposed in a container body with lid in an open position; 
           [0036]      FIG. 12  shows a simplified cross-sectional view along line A-A′ of  FIG. 1  with a stack of test elements contained within container and a lid in a closed, sealing position; 
           [0037]      FIG. 13  shows a simplified perspective view of a container, again with a lid removed for the purposes of clarity, and a stack of elements inserted into the test element channel according to embodiments of the present invention; 
           [0038]      FIG. 14  shows the container of  FIG. 11  grasped in a user&#39;s hand, with a user removing a single strip therefrom according to embodiments of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0039]    In  FIG. 1 , a simplified perspective view of a container  1  is shown for the containment of test elements. The container is configured in a substantially cylindrical shape, and dimensioned such that it can be held in the palm of one hand. The container comprises integrally formed walls  4  which define a container body  2  with a container bottom  6  and an upper open end (not shown). Also depicted is a container lid  50 , shown in the current figure as being in a sealed (i.e. closed) position. Container lid  50  is connected, as will be described later, to a disposed inner part of container by means of a resilient hinge  34 . A free end of the container lid  50  i.e. being opposite the hinge  34  end, comprises a tab  66 . Tab  66  allows for easier movement of the lid  50  to/from its sealing position. 
         [0040]    Container lid  50  preferably provides a resealable airtight seal when lid  50  is in a closed position to protect against harmful effects of the environment and preventing the spoilage of test element(s) contained within the container. When container lid  50  is in an open position, an opening is created between container body and container lid  50  for allowing a test element to be dispensed therethrough (as is described in further detail below). 
         [0041]    Although, for the purpose of explanation only, container body is illustrated as essentially an open-ended cylindrical container, resealable containers according to embodiments of the present invention can have any suitable shape. 
         [0042]    Container preferably is manufactured from a high strength material such as polypropylene or any other liquid impervious plastic material, providing sufficient rigidity for container to retain its shape when manipulated by a user. Preferably, container wall is transparent or semi-transparent. Optionally, outer surface of container may be knurled for allowing easier user handling. Indeed, such knurling may additionally provide a registration feature for use by a machine during filling with test elements. 
         [0043]    Container  1  may additionally include a sticker or a label (not shown) for displaying information related to the test elements stored therein. For example, the label may display commercial information identifying the source of the test elements and/or coded information in the form of a bar code and/or a data matrix code. The bar code and/or data matrix code may contain information identifying properties of the test elements, such as the batch code for the test elements, the date of expiration of the test elements, the initial number of test elements stored in a fully loaded container, and so on. As will become apparent later, sticker or label may be disposed elsewhere about container. 
         [0044]      FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of the container body  2 . As discussed previously, container body  2  is cylindrically shaped having a side wall  4  having an outer surface  4   a  and a parallel inner surface  4   b.  Cylindrical shaped container body  2  has an open-end  8  and a closed-end, which preferably is integrally formed with side wall  4  forming a bottom  6 . Indeed, it is envisaged that bottom  6  of container body  2  may be attached to side wall of container body  2  by welding, screwing, and/or adhesive bonding. Open end  8  of container body  2  allows, as will be explained in detail later, test elements to be inserted and/or removed from container  1 . Upper end of container body  2  is formed by a discontinuous rim  5 . 
         [0045]    Container body  2 , as shown, additionally includes a perpendicularly arranged container body counterface  10  provided near the open end  8  of container body  2 . Counterface  10  forms a region for interfacing with a region of lid  50  as will be discussed later. Container wall  4  perpendicularly extends beyond counterface  10  and has a discontinuous region  14 . Discontinuous region  14  is provided, as will be described later, for interfitting with a region of an insert and/or retaining element. Further shown in the current figure is a semi-continuous collar  12 . Semi-continuous collar  12  is for interfacing with a region on lid  50  as will become apparent later. 
         [0046]    Preferably, container side wall  4  and/or container bottom  6  are transparent or semi-transparent. 
         [0047]      FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of an insert  22 . Insert  22  comprises an insert wall  24  having an outer surface  24   a  and a substantially parallel inner surface  24   b.  Insert wall  24  defines a centrically arranged, preferably rectangular longitudinal channel  29 . Due to its rectangular cross-sectional configuration, the channel  29  defines an opposed pair of longitudinal sides  46   a,    46   b  and an opposed pair of lateral sides  48   a,    48   b.  Rectangular channel  29  is sized and dimensioned for the containment of a stack of test elements, such that individual test elements from the stack can easily be removed therefrom as will be discussed later. Dimensions of channel  29  can be varied to suit one&#39;s needs. For example, opposed pair of longitudinal sides and opposed pair of lateral sides have a length of about of 35 mm. 
         [0048]    A peripheral annular wall  30 , provided to abut inner surface of container body wall  4 , perpendicularly extends beyond insert wall  24 . Disposed on an outer surface of annular wall  30  is a ridge  32 . Ridge  32  is provided to align with discontinuous region  14  of container wall (see  FIG. 2 ), and furthermore with semi-continuous collar  12  of container wall as will be shown later. Ridge  32  of the insert  22  and collar  12  of container body  2  are for interfacing with a region of lid  50  as will be discussed later. 
         [0049]    Optionally, an inner surface of annular wall  30  may further include an inwardly arranged annular recess (not shown). Such annular recess is intended to provide a region for a locking and sealing arrangement with a corresponding collar on the lid  50 . In a preferred embodiment however, region for locking and sealing with a corresponding part on lid  50  is provided by means of a ridge/collar  32 ,  12  arrangement as shown. 
         [0050]    Included as part of annular wall  30  outer surface is a flange  33 . Flange  33  is essentially arranged to project between discontinuous region  14  of container wall (see  FIG. 2 ), having a width being generally the same as the width of container wall discontinuous region  14 . Flange  33  is provided to form a contiguous surface or semi-contiguous surface with container wall counterface. 
         [0051]    Furthermore, and included as part of projecting flange  33  is a resilient hinge  34 . Resilient hinge  34  is preferably disposed on an outer edge of projecting flange  33  and additionally connects to lid  50 . Lid  50  provides a barrier against harmful effects of the environment when in a closed sealing position. It can therefore be seen that insert  22  and lid  50  preferably are moulded or co-moulded forming a one part piece. Upper end of insert annular wall  30  is formed by a rim  30   a.    
         [0052]    Insert  22  is dimensioned to fit within tubular container body  2 . Circumferential upper end of insert wall  24  and optionally lower end of insert wall  24  may have a diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of container body  2  such that insert  22  may be held in place by a close fit, interference fit and/or welding. 
         [0053]    Insert  22  preferably is opaque preventing the content, i.e. test elements, from harmful rays, e.g. UV light, and preferably is manufactured from a polymeric material such as polypropylene or other thermoplastic materials. 
         [0054]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of insert  22  disposed within container body  2  with lid  50  in an open position. The dimensions of the inner diameter of the container body  2  and outer diameter of insert wall  24  upper end (and optionally lower end) are regulated so that there is a sealing relationship between them at least over a portion of their concentricity, that is to say, the sealing relationship should be either that of an interference fit or of a close fit. As can be seen in  FIG. 4 , rim  30   a  of insert annular wall  30  forms a contiguous surface with rim  5  of container wall. Furthermore, outer dimensions of annular wall  30  are regulated so that there is a sealing relationship with inner dimension of container wall  4 . 
         [0055]    Outer surface of insert annular wall  30  includes flange  33  which peripherally projects between discontinuous region  14  of container wall. Flange  33  is dimensioned to fit between discontinuous region  14  of container wall  4 , providing a semi-continuous counterface  10 . Counterface  10  forms a region for the lid  50  to abut thereby providing sealing protection of the contents of the container against harmful effects of the environment. Outwardly arranged ridge  32 , disposed on an outer surface of annular wall  30  of insert  22  is further arranged to fit between discontinuous region  14  of container upper body  2 . Ridge  32  is laterally positioned at insert wall outer surface such that it is aligned with semi-continuous collar  12  of container body outer wall. Ridge  32  is of suitable dimension for sealingly receiving an annular recess  62  of lid  50  (see also  FIG. 5 ). This recess  62  further serves as a means for preventing longitudinal and axial movement of lid  50  when in a closed position. 
         [0056]    Further shown in  FIG. 4  is lid  50  connected to projecting flange  33  by means of integral hinge  34 . Hinge  34  is provided on an opposite side of beak shaped tab  66 , which extends in a lateral direction from a lower edge of lid  50  outer wall  56 . 
         [0057]    Forming part of the disposed insert  22  is channel  29 . Rectangular channel  29  is centrically arranged within insert  22  and dimensioned for the containment of a stack of test elements. For example, opening of the channel  29  has an opening length of about 21 mm and an opening width of about 14 mm. 
         [0058]      FIG. 5  shows a cut-away view of the lid  50  according to an embodiment of the invention. Lid  50  being in the general shape of an outwardly convex cylindrical disk has a first surface  52  and a substantially parallel second surface  54 . Cylindrical disk has a diameter equal to that of container body counterface  10  (see  FIG. 4 ) disposed near the open end of container body  2 . 
         [0059]    Lid  50  includes a generally cylindrical, continuous sidewall  56  having an inner surface  56   a  and a parallel outer surface  56   b.  Thickness of lid wall  56  is generally equal to that of thickness of container body wall  4 . Depth of lid wall  56 , i.e. depth between second surface  54  of disk and a lower edge of lid wall  56  is generally equal to the height of wall  4  projecting above counterface  10  of container body  2  (see  FIG. 2 ). Furthermore, inner surface  56   a  of lid wall  56  defines a diameter which is generally equal to the outer diameter of container wall  4 . Preferably included on inner surface of lid wall  56 , and disposed on a peripheral lower end, is an annular recess  62 . Annular recess  62  has a diameter greater than inner diameter of wall  56  and configured to interlock with ridge  32  and collar  12  arranged at outer surface of insert  22  annular wall  30  and outer surface of container wall, respectively. 
         [0060]    Additionally, lid  50  includes a skirt  58  connected to the planar disk at a shoulder  59  and is dimensioned to extend downwardly and coaxially from the second surface  54  of lid  50 . Skirt  58  has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the lid  50  wall, such that an annular space  70  is provided between an outer surface of skirt and inner surface of lid wall  56   a.  Annular space  70  is provided to fit over container wall  4  projecting above container body counterface  10 , when lid  50  is in a closed sealing position. 
         [0061]    Lower end of skirt outer face  58   a  tapers inwardly, preferably at an angle of about 5°. 
         [0062]    This feature provides ease of lid  50  closure and in particular of insertion into opening defined by insert annular wall  30  (see  FIG. 3 ). Skirt  58  fits into open end of insert  22  to which the lid  50  has been hingably secured to seal the contents of insert  22  when the lid  50  is pivoted toward its closed position. In particular, lid recess  62  is provided to interlock with ridge  32  of insert and henceforth semi-continuous collar  12  of container wall  4  when lid  50  is in a closed position, as will become apparent later. 
         [0063]    Furthermore lid  50  comprises an opening  61  which extends from a lower end of the skirt  58  up to second surface  54  of lid, thus defining a hollow portion. Hollow portion is configured to contain an upper end of stack of test elements, as will become apparent in later figures. 
         [0064]    Lid  50  preferably includes a beak-shaped tab  66  extension, which extends in a lateral direction from lower edge of wall  56 , to assist a user in the opening and/or closing of lid  50 . Hinge  34  included on an opposite side of the tab  66 , securely forms part of insert projecting flange  33  as discussed. Hinge  34  provides for a selected displacement of lid  50  to/from a sealing position during user interaction of beak-shaped tab  66 . 
         [0065]    Lid  50  is of unitary construction and preferably is injection moulded or co-moulded of a suitable synthetic resin with insert  22 . Lid  50 , moulded or co-moulded with insert, is opaque in nature thus impeding harmful rays (e.g. UV fraction of day light) from entering the container, when lid  50  is in a sealingly closed position. 
         [0066]      FIG. 6  shows a cross-sectional view along line A-A′ of  FIG. 1  having an insert  22  disposed in container body  2  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Lid  50 , integral with insert  22 , is in a closed sealing position. 
         [0067]    As discussed previously, container body  2  preferably is cylindrically shaped having a side wall  4  having an outer surface  4   a,  an inner surface  4   b,  an open-end  8  and a closed-end (bottom)  6 . 
         [0068]    Disposed within the container body  2  is insert  22 . Insert  22  has an insert wall  24  having an outer surface  24   a  and an inner surface  24   b  and defines a centrically arranged rectangular longitudinal channel  29  which extends through the upper end  8  to the lower end  6  of container body  2 . Upper end—and optionally lower end—of insert wall  24  may have a diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of container body  2  such that insert  22  may be held in place by a close fit, interference fit and/or welding. 
         [0069]    The container for storing moisture sensitive test elements according to the present invention is characterized in that a cavity  18  is created between inner surface  4   b  of container wall  4  and outer surface  24   a  of insert wall  24  for the containment of a desiccant material  18   a.  In the embodiment of the inventive container according to  FIG. 6 , the cavity  18  is provided at the bottom  6  area of container body  2  between the inner surface  6   a  of container bottom  6  and a bottom  20  arranged at the lower end of insert wall  24 . 
         [0070]    In one embodiment of the present invention, insert  22  comprises a bottom  20  which is integrally formed with insert wall  24 . 
         [0071]    Preferably, as shown in  FIG. 6 , the bottom  20  of the insert  22  is formed by a “false” bottom. Furthermore and accordingly, lower end of insert wall  24  is arranged to abut first surface  20   a  of false bottom  20  as shown. Such an arrangement ensures that desiccant material  18   a  contained within cavity  18  may absorb moisture which may ingress into container body and in particular rectangular channel  29  during normal use of the container. 
         [0072]    Preferably, inner surface  6   a  of container bottom  6  includes several support structures  16  which may be attached to or made integral with container bottom. Support structures  16  may be provided as arms which may radially extend from a central position to a perimeter of the inner surface of container bottom juxtaposing optionally integrally formed wall  4   b  of container body  2 . Any number of support structures  16  may be attached or made integral with container bottom  6 , thus being preferably separated equidistance from each other, so as to provide open spaces therebetween. The depth of the support structures  16 , e.g. arms, depends on the volume of desiccant material  18   a  required in cavity  18 . Preferably, support structures  16  are about 6 mm in depth. 
         [0073]    Support structures  16 , attached to or made integral with container bottom  6  provide a support for false bottom  20 . False bottom  20 , having an annular edge, a first side  20   a  and a second side  20   b,  is dimensioned to have a diameter generally equal to the inner diameter of container body  2 . Such dimensional arrangements are regulated so that there is a sealing relationship between annular edge of false bottom  20  and inner wall of container body  2 , that is to say, the sealing relationship is either that of an interference fit or of a close fit. 
         [0074]    Thus, at least one hollow cavity  18  is provided between inner surface  6   a  of container bottom  6  and second side  20   b  of the insert bottom or false bottom  20 . Cavity  18  is for the retention of the desiccant material  18   a  as previously described. Preferably, insert bottom or false bottom  20  is of a porous material which enables moisture or moisture contaminants to be absorbed by the desiccant material  18   a  contained in cavity  18 . The material also serves as a strainer to prevent contents of the container (i.e. test elements) from becoming plugged by contamination from the desiccant material  18   a.  Alternatively, cavity  18  may be filled with material to protect the test elements from other environmental factors such as Oxygen, for example. 
         [0075]    As mentioned, disposed between inner surface  6   a  of container bottom  6 , e.g. between radially extending arms  16  and insert bottom or false bottom  20 , is a layer of moisture absorbent desiccant material  18   a.  The layer of moisture absorbent desiccant material preferably has a thickness of approximately 5 mm. Such a material may be in particulate form such as granules or crystals of silica gel, or silica gel in pellet or powder form, silica aerogels, molecular sieves or any other hygroscopic material known to persons skilled in the art. It is envisaged that layer of desiccant material  18   a  is provided to absorb any moisture which may enter container during normal usage of the container i.e. during removal of a test element for instance. 
         [0076]    Preferably, moisture absorbent desiccant material  18   a  contains an indicator whose colour changes when exposed to moisture. Such an indicator may be Cobalt Dichloride which may change from a blue colour in a non-moisture absorbent state, to a pink colour in a moisture absorbent state. Furthermore, rate of colour change of indicator material preferably is directly proportional to its exposure to moisture. Colour change is visible to a user by means of a transparent container wall  4  or a transparent section of container wall  4 . 
         [0077]    Although not shown in any of the figures, preferably provided between outer surface of insert wall  24   a  and inner surface of container wall  4   b  is a sleeve. It is envisaged that sleeve may be transparent and includes a sticker or printed information for displaying information related to the test elements stored within container. Furthermore, sticker or label may include a coloured reference scale for allowing a visual comparison to be made with moisture absorbent indicator. Preferably, coloured scale is adjacent to the absorbent material and indicator material. Label may additionally display commercial information identifying the source of the test elements, identifying properties of the test elements, the date of expiration of the test elements, the initial number of test elements stored in a fully loaded container, and so on. 
         [0078]    Whilst the aforementioned insert is described herein as an insert disposed and retained within container body, it will become apparent through subsequent illustrations that container and insert could be moulded or co-moulded, forming a one part piece. It is also envisaged that insert first end may additionally include alphanumeric and/or non-alphanumeric markings, thus aiding a user in correctly identifying the contents of the container. Furthermore, insert first end may additionally include a graduated chromatic scale (e.g. colour or mono) aiding in the indication to a user of the quantity of test elements remaining within the container. 
         [0079]    In  FIG. 7  a cross-sectional view along line A-A′ of  FIG. 1  is depicted according to an other embodiment of the invention. Lid  150  is in open position for the purposes of clarity. 
         [0080]    Again, in the current embodiment, container body  102  preferably is transparent and cylindrically shaped having a side wall  104  having an outer surface  104   a  and an inner surface  104   b.  Cylindrical shaped container body  102  has a closed-end  106  and an open-end  108 . Closed-end  106  is integrally formed with side wall forming a bottom  106  having an outer surface and an inner surface. Indeed, it is envisaged that bottom  106  of container body  102  may be attached to side wall  104  of container body  102  by welding, screwing, and/or adhesive bonding. Preferably, container bottom  106  also is transparent. Open end  108  of container body allows several parts i.e. such as an insert and a sleeve to be placed within the container body  102 . 
         [0081]    Inserted in the container body  102  is an insert  122 . Insert  122 , optionally manufactured from a polymeric material such as polypropylene and the like, is dimensioned to fit within tubular container body  102 . Insert  122  comprises a centrically arranged wall  124  which defines a rectangular longitudinal channel  129  which extends vertically from first surface of container bottom  106  to near the open end of container  108  and has a rectangular opening arranged opposite container bottom  106 . 
         [0082]    Due to its rectangular cross-sectional configuration, the channel  129  defines an opposed pair of longitudinal sides and an opposed pair of lateral sides. Opposed pair of longitudinal sides and opposed pair of lateral sides may have a length of about of 3 5  mm. Rectangular channel  129  is sized and dimensioned for the containment of a stack of test elements, such that individual test elements from the stack can easily be removed therefrom. Dimensions of rectangular channel can be varied to suit one&#39;s needs. 
         [0083]    Optionally, insert  122  may have a circumferential end having a diameter being slightly smaller than internal diameter of container body  102  such that insert  122  may be held in place by a close fit, interference fit and/or welding. Further, circumferential lower end of insert  122  may be arranged to abut first surface of container bottom  106 . However, depending on the material used, insert  122  may be moulded or co-moulded with container body  102 . 
         [0084]    Between outer surface of insert wall  124   a  and inner surface of container body wall  104   b  there is provided a circumferential annular cavity  118 . Within cavity  118  is provided a layer of moisture absorbent desiccant material  118   a.  Such material may be in particulate form such as granules or crystals of silica gel, or silica gel in pellet or powder form, silica aerogels, molecular sieves, or any other hygroscopic material known to persons skilled in the art. Moisture absorbent material  118   a  is preferably layered to extend the length of insert. It is envisaged that layer of desiccant material  118   a  is provided to absorb any moisture which may enter container during normal usage thereof i.e. during removal of a test element for instance. 
         [0085]    Preferably, moisture absorbent desiccant material  118   a  contains an indicator whose colour changes when exposed to moisture. Such an indicator may be Cobalt Dichloride which may change from a blue colour in a non-moisture absorbent state, to a pink colour in a moisture absorbent state. Furthermore, rate of colour change of indicator material is directly proportional to its exposure to moisture. 
         [0086]    Furthermore, insert  122  may be manufactured from a porous material enabling moisture or moisture contaminants to be absorbed by desiccant material  118   a.  The material may also serve as a strainer to prevent contents of the container (i.e. elements) from becoming plugged by contamination from the desiccant material. As mentioned, insert  122  is generally opaque. 
         [0087]    Layer of absorbent material  118   a  may be preferably retained within hollow space  118  by a retaining element  131  having an outer diameter slightly smaller than internal diameter of container body  102 , and an inner opening slightly larger than insert wall  124  such as that provided by a close fit, interference fit and/or welding. Retaining element  131  is preferably manufactured from a polymeric material such as polypropylene and the like, and generally is opaque. Optionally however, retaining element  131  may be of a porous material or moisture permeable material which enables moisture or moisture contaminants to be absorbed by the desiccant material. 
         [0088]    Further provided although not shown in the current figure is a sleeve. Preferably, sleeve is made of a plastic material and formed as a tube such that it is disposed within hollow space i.e. between outer surface of insert wall and inner surface of container wall. It is envisaged that sleeve may be transparent and includes a sticker or printed information for displaying information related to the test elements stored within container. Furthermore, sleeve may include a coloured reference scale for allowing a visual comparison to be made with moisture absorbent indicator. Preferably, coloured scale is applied adjacent to the absorbent material. Label may additionally display commercial information identifying the source of the test elements, identifying properties of the test elements, the date of expiration of the test elements, the initial number of test elements stored in a fully loaded container, and so on. 
         [0089]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , an exploded perspective view of  FIG. 7  is depicted showing insert  122  within container body  102 . As previously discussed, forming part of the disposed insert is rectangular channel  129 . Rectangular channel  129  is centrically arranged within insert  122  and dimensioned for the containment of a stack of test elements. Rectangular opening of channel  129  preferably has an opening length of about  21  mm and an opening width of about 14 mm. Circumferential lower end of channel  129  may be arranged as previously mentioned to abut first surface of container bottom  106 . Again, length of channel  129  is such that upper end of test elements contained in the channel  129  projects above rim  105  of container body wall  104 , as will become apparent from following Figures. 
         [0090]    Annular hollow space  118  for containment of absorbent material  118   a  is also shown. Layer of absorbent material  118   a  is preferably contained by means of retaining element  131  as discussed. A peripheral annular wall  130  perpendicularly extending beyond retaining element  131  is arranged to abut inner surface of container wall  104   b.  Annular wall  130  has a suitable height not to exceed rim  105  of container wall  104 , that is to say, rim  130   a  of annular wall is substantially contiguous with rim  105  of container wall  104  when container body  102  and retaining element  131  are assembled. 
         [0091]    An outer surface of ring annular wall  130  includes a flange  133  and a resilient hinge  134 . Resilient hinge  134  is preferably disposed on an outer edge of projecting flange  133  and additionally connects to lid  150 . Lid  150  is for the containment of test elements, providing a barrier against harmful effects of the environment when in a closed sealing position. It can therefore be seen that annular retaining element  131  and lid  150  preferably are moulded or co-moulded forming a one part piece. 
         [0092]    Skirt  158 , connected to planar surface of lid  150  at shoulder, is constructed to extend downwardly therefrom and has a length determined by the length of annular wall  130  of retaining element  131 . Lower end of skirt  158  tapers inwardly to ensure ease of lid  150  fitment into container body  102 . Annular space  170 , provided between inner surface of lid  150  wall and outer surface of skirt  158 , is for fitting over container wall projecting above container body counterface  110 . 
         [0093]      FIG. 9  is a further perspective view of the retaining element  131  integral with lid  150  depicting a ridge  132  disposed on an outer surface of annular wall  130 . When container body  102  and retaining element  131  integral with lid  150  are assembled, ridge  132 , provided at open end, is essentially aligned with discontinuous region  114  of container wall and semi-continuous collar  112  of container body  102 . Ridge  132  and collar  112  of container body  102  (see  FIG. 8 ) form a region for interfacing with a region of lid  150 . 
         [0094]    Lid  150  additionally includes a beak shaped tab  166  extending laterally from lower edge of lid  150 , and arranged on an opposite side of hinge  134 . 
         [0095]    Optionally, inner surface of annular wall  130  of retaining element  131  may include an annular recess (not shown). Annular recess may be positioned mid-way between first end of insert and rim of container wall, and is for a locking engagement with an annular collar optionally disposed on lid  150 . 
         [0096]    As a matter of cause, the inventive container may be a combination of the embodiments according to  FIG. 6  and  FIGS. 7 ,  8  and  9 , respectively. In this embodiment, the container may comprise cavities  18 ,  118  for the containment of desiccant material  18   a,    118   a  both in the bottom area, i.e. between inner surface  6   a,    106   a  of container bottom wall  6 ,  106 , and in the annular circumferential area, i.e. between inner surface  4   b,    104   b  of container body wall  4 ,  104  and outer surface  24   a,    124   a  of insert wall  24 ,  124  of the container. 
         [0097]      FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of an insert having an integral lid according to another embodiment of the present invention. In  FIG. 10 , a perspective view of insert  220  is shown with an integral lid  250  in an open position. Insert  220  has upper and lower concentrically arranged open annular walls  230 ,  232  which preferably are co-moulded forming a one part piece. Each annular wall  230 ,  232  has an outer surface  230   a,    232   a  and an inner surface  230   b,    232   b.  Outer diameter of upper annular wall  230  is greater than outer diameter of lower annular wall  232  and as will be shown in the subsequent figure, such a configuration limits the insertion of the insert  220  into open end of container body. Further, outer diameter of lower annular wall  232  is dimensioned to be of the same order as the inner diameter of container body and as such forms a tight fit when insert is inserted into open end of container body. 
         [0098]    Insert  220  further includes an insert wall  240  which downwardly and insetly depends from lower insert annular wall  232 . Insert wall  240  has an outer surface and a substantially parallel inner surface and defines a centrically arranged, preferably rectangular longitudinal channel  229 . Rectangular channel  229  is sized and dimensioned for the containment of a stack of test elements, such that individual test elements from the stack can easily be removed therefrom as will be discussed later. Preferably length of longitudinal channel is dimensioned to be less than length of test element(s) to aid in removal thereof during use. 
         [0099]    In this embodiment, an upstanding protrusion  260  is also provided forming part of inner surface  230   b,    232   b  of lower and upper annular insert wall  230 ,  232 . Upstanding protrusion  260  preferably forms a contiguous surface with inner surface of insert wall  240  to aid in the correct positioning of the test elements when contained within rectangular longitudinal channel  229 . 
         [0100]    Lid  250  is in the general shape of a cylindrical disk  254  having a first surface and a substantially parallel second surface and includes a generally cylindrical, continuous sidewall having an inner surface and a substantially parallel outer surface depending from cylindrical disk  254 . Thickness of lid wall is generally equal to that of thickness of container body wall. Depth of lid wall, i.e. depth between second surface of disk and a lower edge of lid wall is generally equal to the height of upper insert annular wall  230 . Furthermore, inner diameter of lid is generally equal to the outer diameter of upper insert annular wall  230 , so that when lid is in a closed position inner diameter of lid and outer diameter of annular wall generally complement each other. 
         [0101]    Preferably included on inner surface of lid wall, and disposed on a peripheral lower end, is a protrusion  245 . Protrusion is configured to engage with a corresponding notch  244  on outer surface of upper insert annular wall and thus forms an interlocking mechanism for locking the lid when in a correct closing position. In addition to the interlocking mechanism, a sealing ring  231  may be provided circumferentially at the inner surface of lid&#39;s sidewall which, in closed position of the lid, abuts on upper insert annular wall  232  and provides for a further sealing of insert and lid assembly. Preferably, rim of upper insert annular wall  232  is chamfered to ensure ease of lid closure. 
         [0102]    Upper insert annular wall  232  is arranged to snugly fit inside wall of lid to provide a sealing fit. When lid is in closed, sealing position, peripheral lower end of lid wall abuts upper surface of outwardly projecting flange. It is important to note in the current embodiment, that the lid is sealed with the insert and does not rely on features of the container body to provide a seal. 
         [0103]      FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of the insert  220  according to  FIG. 10  disposed in a container body  202  with lid  250  in an open position. Insert  220  is held in position by means of an interference fit between lower insert annular wall  232  and opening of container body  202  since outer diameter of lower insert annular wall and inner diameter of container opening are of the same order. In particular, raised profile of lower annular insert wall  232  ensures an interference fit between lower insert annular wall  232  and container body  202 . Once insert  220  is fully inserted into its correct position, outer surface  230   a  of upper insert annular wall  230  forms a semi-contiguous surface with outer surface of container body  202  with rim of container body open end abutting upper insert annular wall  230 . Furthermore, when lid is in a closed sealing position (not shown) rim of lid wall abuts rim of container open end. 
         [0104]    Further shown in the current figure is the semi-contiguous surface between outer surface of container body  202  and outer surface of insert upper annular wall  230 . Such semi-contiguous region is defined by equal diametrical outer diameter of both cylinder housing and insert upper annular wall  230 . It has to be noted, that in the embodiment according to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the container body does not provide a discontinuous region ( 14 , see  FIG. 2 ) of container wall, because, as mentioned above, lid is sealed with the insert and does not rely on features of the container body to provide a seal. 
         [0105]    Upstanding protrusion  260  forming part of inner surface of lower and upper annular insert walls  230 ,  232  aid in the orderly containment of the test elements within the channel. Furthermore, such protrusion  260  reduces the likelihood of edges of individual test elements becoming trapped in the rim of the lid wall during closure thereof. For the purposes of clarity, the container is empty i.e. does not contain any test elements therein. 
         [0106]    As is shown in the current view, lid  250  forms part of lower annular wall of insert  220  by means of a hinge  234  extending from outwardly projecting flange  233  projecting from lower annular wall  232  of insert. Arranged opposite the hinge  234  is lid tab  266 , which, as previously mentioned, aids the user in opening and closing of vial lid for subsequent removal of test element for example. As mentioned previously, a sealing ring  231 , positioned circumferentially at the inner surface of lid&#39;s sidewall, provides for a sealing of insert and lid assembly when lid is in a closed position. 
         [0107]    Although not shown in the current figure, a cavity is created between inner wall surface of container wall and outer surface of insert wall for the containment of a desiccant material. In one embodiment of the inventive container, the cavity is provided at the bottom area of container body between the inner surface of container bottom and a bottom arranged at the lower end of insert wall. As described previously, the cavity may however be provided elsewhere about container according to different embodiments of the present invention. Cavity is for the containment of desiccant material which absorbs moisture which may ingress into container body and in particular rectangular channel during normal use of the container. 
         [0108]      FIG. 12  shows a simplified cross-sectional view along line A-A′ of  FIG. 1  with a stack of test elements contained within a container  1 . Lid  50  is shown in a closed, sealing position. 
         [0109]    As mentioned, in all embodiments of the invention, centrically arranged rectangular channel  29  of insert is dimensioned to guide disposed stack of test elements  80 . Accommodated test elements  80  are oriented in an upright formation, that is, minor end  80   a  of test element(s) is arranged to perpendicularly abut first surface of bottom or false bottom  20  of insert. Furthermore, one minor end  80   b  of test elements  80 , as shown, projects above rectangular insert channel  29  extending into hollow portion  61  of lid  50 . 
         [0110]    When lid is in a closed sealing position, it is shown that in the embodiment as shown in  FIG. 12  which corresponds to the embodiments of  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 8 , lid rim  60  abuts container body counterface  10  and projecting flange  33 . Such closing arrangement further ensures that lid recess  62  is arranged to fit and interlock into ridge  32  of annular wall of insert  22  and of retaining element  131 , respectively. 
         [0111]      FIG. 13  shows a simplified perspective view depicting a stack of elements  80  inserted in the container  1 ,  101 ,  201  according to embodiments of the present invention. 
         [0112]    Test elements  80  have first and second opposing minor ends  80   a  (not shown) and  80   b  with a length therebetween of about 40 mm. Width of test element may be about 13 mm. Other such dimensions can be used, as those skilled in the art will appreciate. 
         [0113]    Stack of test elements  80  is inserted in rectangular insert channel  29 ,  129 ,  229 , respectively, in such a manner that each test element minor end  80   a  perpendicularly abuts first surface of insert bottom or false bottom as mentioned. Occurrence of such abutment is such that a portion of second minor end  80   b  of test elements  80  projects above rectangular insert channel  29 ,  129 ,  229 , respectively. That portion of test element  80  projecting above rectangular insert channel provides the interface surface  81  for allowing easy accessibility and handling of individual test elements  80  by a user. Dimension of interface surface  81  is about 7 mm, although persons skilled in the art will appreciate that such dimensions are variable. 
         [0114]    Channel  29 ,  129 ,  229 , respectively, may comprise a predetermined number of test elements  80 , as shown. For example, stack may comprise twenty five test elements  80 . However, the channel is not limited to accommodate a stack of twenty five test elements and may accommodate any suitable number of test elements. Indeed it would be obvious to persons skilled in the art that length and width of channel may be suitably dimensioned for test elements other than those described herein. 
         [0115]    Once apprised of the present disclosure, one skilled in the art will recognise that container shape can take a variety of forms. For example, the shape of the container body may be similar to that of an ellipse so that the body of the container is considerably narrower in one direction than in the other. To maintain good sealing properties of lid against a counterface however, container opening and lid would preferably be circular. 
         [0116]    Operational Sequence 
         [0117]    The use and operation of the container will now be described with reference to the previously discussed figures and with reference to  FIG. 14  which depicts a simple perspective view of a container  1 ,  101 ,  201  grasped in a user&#39;s hand  300 . Lid  50 ,  150 ,  250  is an open position exposing a stack of test elements  80  disposed therein with an individual test element  80  removed therefrom. 
         [0118]    The lid opening process is initiated by lifting upwardly upon lid tab  66 ,  166 ,  266  which projects beyond container wall. The lifting force may be manipulated by a user&#39;s thumb of the grasping hand  300 . Hinge  34 ,  134 ,  234  then provides for a selected displacement of the lid  50 ,  150 ,  250  from its closed sealing position. 
         [0119]    As lid  50 ,  150 ,  250  is displaced to a fully extended position, stack of test elements  82  disposed within insert channel ( 29 ,  129 ,  229 ) is exposed. Preferably, user may grasp interface surface  81  of an individual test element  80  and upwardly remove test element from its abutted position, utilising index finger  401  and thumb  402  of non-grasping hand. Removal of individual test element  80  from container  1 ,  101 ,  201  allows subsequent use thereof. 
         [0120]    In an opposite movement, lid  50 ,  150 ,  250  is closed by applying pressure thereto to force skirt ( 58 ,  158 , see  FIG. 5 ) completely within opening of insert. Again, the closing force may be manipulated by a user&#39;s thumb of the grasping hand. Skirt ( 58 ,  158 ) fits into opening of insert to seal the contents of the container. As lid  50 ,  150 ,  250  passes from an open position, tapered end of skirt ( 58 ,  158 ) passes over rim of container open end and continues until annular recess ( 62 ) of lid interlocks with ridge ( 32 ,  132 ) of insert wall, and, in the embodiments according to  FIGS. 4 and 8 , with semi-continuous collar ( 12 ,  112 ) of container wall. Such interlocking arrangement between recess ( 62 ) and ridge ( 32 ,  132 ) provides an audible ‘click’ ensuring user awareness of correct closure of lid. 
         [0121]    Optionally, skirt ( 58 ,  158 ) and inner surface of insert annular wall ( 24   b,    124   b ) may be constructed so that as lid  50 ,  150 ,  250  is moved to a closing position, lower end of the skirt ( 58 ,  158 ) may abut first end of insert ( 22 ) or first end of retaining element ( 131 ), that is to say the length of skirt ( 58 ,  158 ) depending from second surface of planar disk ( 54 ) may be constructed to be the same length as the inner face of insert annular wall ( 30 ). Such an arrangement may provide a further barrier against harmful environmental conditions. 
         [0122]    As mentioned above, the interlocking mechanism of lid and insert can be of any nature providing a tight seal between insert and lid and, optionally, container body. As shown in the embodiments of  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the interlocking mechanism may be provided by a protrusion ( 245 ) engaging a corresponding notch ( 244 ). In this embodiment, a further sealing between lid and insert is achieved by a sealing ring ( 231 ) which is disposed circumferentially at the inner surface of lid&#39;s sidewall and, in closed position of the lid, abuts on insert upper annular wall ( 230 ). 
         [0123]    Method of Manufacture of Container 
         [0124]    Containers of the present invention may be manufactured in a number of different ways. 
         [0125]    For example, container  1  according to the embodiment of the invention exemplary shown in  FIG. 6  can be manufactured by moulding a container body  2  having a transparent wall  4  and having one closed end  6  and one open end. A desiccant material  18   a,  preferably containing a moisture indicator is inserted into a defined cavity  18  at the bottom  6  of the container body  2 . A false bottom  20  is then introduced through container body  2  open end to retain disposed desiccant material  18   a.  Furthermore, an insert  22 , preferably being opaque, is co-moulded with a lid  5  forming a one part piece. Insert  22  is moved into container body  2  through open end such that it forms an interference fit or a close fit within container body  2 . One end of insert  22  abuts false bottom  20 . 
         [0126]    According to another embodiment of the invention as exemplary shown in  FIG. 7 , container  101  might be manufactured from a transparent material such that container body  102  has a transparent wall  104  and a closed end  106  and an open end. Optionally, an insert  122  is moulded or co-moulded with container body  102  having an outer diameter less than inner diameter of container body  102 , thus defining a circumferential annular space  118 . Optionally, insert  122  is introduced into container body  102  after container body is moulded. Desiccant material  118   a  which preferably contains a moisture indicator is introduced into circumferential annular space  118 . A generally opaque retaining element  131  is co-moulded with a lid  150  forming a one part piece and is then inserted into container body  102  through open end thereof such that it forms an interference fit or close fit within container body  102 . 
         [0127]    As mentioned above, in a further embodiment the container may comprise cavities  18 ,  118  for the containment of desiccant material  18   a,    118   a  in the cavity  18  formed in the bottom  6  area of the container body  2 ,  102  as well as in the circumferential annular space  118  between container body wall  4 ,  104  and insert wall  24 ,  124 . In such a case, container can be manufactured by moulding a container body  2 ,  102 , inserting the desiccant material  18   a,  preferably containing a moisture indicator, into a defined cavity  18  at the bottom  6  of the container body, introducing false bottom  20  through container body open end to retain desiccant material  18   a  disposed at the bottom  6  of container body, inserting insert  22 ,  122  in container body  2 ,  102 , inserting desiccant material  118   a,  optionally containing a moisture indicator, into circumferential annular space  118  formed between container body  2 ,  102  and insert  22 ,  122 , inserting a retaining element  131  co-moulded with the lid  150 . 
         [0128]    Various embodiments of the invention have been described above. The descriptions are intended to be illustrative, not limitative. Thus, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that certain modifications may be made to the invention as described without departing from the scope of the claims set out below.